Pipefitters Union Holiday Charity Drive Provides Food and Toys for Boston Families

In light of surging COVID-19 rates, record-high food insecurity, Union’s donations bring joy to families facing economic and health impacts of the pandemic    

BOSTON, MA — Pipefitters Local 537, one of Boston’s largest unions, held a charitable drive Saturday at their Union Hall to collect donations to aid struggling community members this holiday season. The initiative comes at a time when thousands of families are facing food and financial insecurity with the impact of COVID-19. 

“This has been a challenging year for many working families, and it can be even harder during the holidays,” said Pipefitters Local 537 Business Manager/Financial Secretary-Treasurer Tom Kerr. “Giving a bag of groceries or a brand-new toy to a child this holiday season is the least we can do for our neighbors.” 

Local 537 collected an estimated $20,000 of brand-new toys for Marine Toys for Tots, including Lego sets, games, dolls, and sports equipment, in addition to hundreds of pounds of non-perishable food items for Catholic Charities Food Pantry in Dorchester. 

“I’m blown away by the donations and kindness shown by our fellow members this weekend,” said Local 537 Organizer and Toys for Tots Coordinator Chris Brennan, whose one son is an Air Force veteran and the other is currently serving in the U.S. Navy. “As parents, we always want our kids, and every kid, to have a great, fun holiday.” In the coming days, Brennan, Marine veteran and Local 537 Inside Guard Danny O’Brien, and a team of union members will work as Santa’s helpers, coordinating with Toys for Tots to distribute the toy donations. 

Dorchester, East Boston, and Hyde Park have some of the city’s highest rates of COVID-19. The severe economic impact of the pandemic has left many families without the income they depend on to pay daily living expenses. As food bank visits remain at an all-time high, Massachusetts has the highest percentage of residents facing hunger in the country, nearly one million people.

Throughout the pandemic, Local 537 has been working to help local communities. Its Charitable Foundation donated $20,000 to the Greater Boston Food Bank ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday, which provided 60,000 nutritious meals to at-risk residents across the Commonwealth. The Union also donated much-needed PPE (gloves, goggles and face shields) to Quincy’s Manet Community Health Care Center.

About Pipefitters Local 537: 

Pipefitters Local 537 represents over 3,000 members across Massachusetts and is affiliated with the United Association. From medical campuses to area universities, we are proud to have worked on pipefitting, welding and HVAC-Refrigeration projects of all shapes and sizes throughout the region for over 100 years.

Mayor Walsh announces contract with Sterlingwear to produce gowns for first responders

BOSTON - Monday, August 17, 2020 - Mayor Martin J. Walsh today announced that the City of Boston has signed a contract with Sterlingwear of Boston, a locally-owned, third generation East Boston garment manufacturer, to produce up to 150,000 medical gowns for Boston's first responders and frontline workers. The partnership has helped re-employ highly skilled garment workers while providing needed Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.  "During these challenging times, I am pleased that the City of Boston has been able to support a long-time, locally owned business, while producing needed, high quality PPE to support Boston's first responders," said Mayor Walsh. "We will continue to support our local and small businesses that employ our residents and fuel our neighborhoods." The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a worldwide shortage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and Mayor Walsh and the Greater Boston Labor Council (GBLC) worked closely together to identify a way to support both a locally-owned business and workers, while increasing the supply of PPE for Boston's first responders and frontline workers. Prior to pivoting operations to produce medical gowns, Sterlingwear of Boston was set to close after the federal government ended a 45 year contract to manufacture the traditional U.S. Navy wool peacoats earlier this year.  Sterlingwear of Boston is the last remaining garment manufacturer in the City of Boston. "Our members at Sterlingwear of Boston are very proud to apply their craft in the service of protecting frontline workers right here in the City of Boston. The work of garment workers can often go unnoticed, but we're thankful to the Greater Boston Labor Council and Mayor Walsh for working with us and Sterlingwear of Boston to highlight the important work that our members do in the needletrades," said Warren Pepicelli, Manager / International Executive Vice President, New England Joint Board UNITE HERE. "This is an important example of why we should value manufacturing work and what is possible when we put our neighbors back to work."  "As a family owned company now in its third generation Sterlingwear of Boston is no stranger to making high quality garments for our nation's heroes," said Frank Fredella, CEO and Owner, Sterlingwear of Boston. "Over the past 55 years we've been proud to make uniforms for almost every branch of the US military from our East Boston factory. We're immensely proud to be putting our years of experience in the garment industry to work by manufacturing critically needed PPE for frontline workers during this pandemic. It is fitting that Bostonians will be wearing PPE made right here in their city. We hope they'll wear them with the same pride we take in making them." In addition to supporting the City's first responders, Sterlingwear of Boston is expected to manufacture medical gowns for small and local businesses, including community health centers, and assisted living and nursing homes.  The City of Boston has created a platform to help businesses source the personal protective equipment (PPE) and cleaning supplies they will be required to have available in order to ensure the safety of employees and customers as industries reopen.  Along with industry-specific reopening requirements, the page includes a list of self-identified, local suppliers of PPE and cleaning supplies, information on the Commonwealth of Massachusetts' vendor database, and partner organizations helping to connect businesses with vendors.

As the Covid-19 crisis engulfs East Boston, the YMCA's pursuit of community wellness shines through

Shifting gears, East Boston YMCA stays true to its mission: Community Wellness; Cargo Ventures' donation arrives at critical point for YMCA

The historic landmark building where the East Boston YMCA calls home is quiet. Its 2800 members remain at home and not at its Bremen Street facility or at its satellite location on Ashley Street.

The exercise classes are gone, for now. So are the teenagers who check in over the weekend for programs. The applications for the Y's summer camp are up for discussion. And so are the swimming lessons, the YMCA's traditional staple, blocks away at the Umana Academy. Like many other social service agencies, the YMCA is facing a loss of revenues to support its programs.

But the YMCA is far from closed. And it is certainly not down and out. It is ground zero for providing community support in a neighborhood that is severely swamped by the COVID-19. According to the Boston Public Health Commission, East Boston has the highest percentage of coronavirus cases in the city.

The austere brick building which was once the Boston and Albany engine house and located along the Mary Ellen Welch Greenway has emerged a critical center of activity not only distributing food but also providing child care for front line workers.

"We're the only child care facility in East Boston for front line workers for free of charge," notes YMCA Executive Director and East Boston native Joseph Gaeta. Moreover, the Y is spearheading food distribution, along with the City of Boston and Project Bread, to make sure children and families receive healthy meals during the pandemic here in Eastie.

"A lot of our parents are doctors, nurses, EMTs, UPS drivers, Post Office employees and Stop and Shop workers. All of these workers are essential. Being able to provide our front-line workers a safe place for their children while they support our community is very important to us at the Y."

Little did Gaeta know that he'd be leading relief efforts in a major health crisis in his hometown. "I worked my way through every job to be executive director," he said. "I don't ever expect to distribute personal protection equipment (PPE) and face masks."

The YMCA has always stressed health and wellness in its programs. Some of the ones now in a holding pattern include not only the group and personal exercise routines but the LiveStrong programs for cancer patients and diabetes control. The transition to providing nutrition is natural for the East Boston YMCA.

Some of the Y's members are still paying their dues so that they can keep the programs going. Members are aware their dues enable free programs to feed people. "They know the money is going to feeding children," explains Gaeta. They are also busy making calls to check up on fellow members.

But unfortunately, the needs increase.

"Right when we think we have a steady stream to fill the need, it doubles the next day," says Gaeta, "We serve about 20,000 meals a week just out of Bremen Street," says Gaeta.

"Sometimes we run out and have to turn people away or refer them to another partner. Because of the generous donation from our friends at Cargo Ventures we are able to fill gaps and extend our reach to families directly when we do run out of our daily meals."

Cargo Ventures, the industrial real estate and logistics firm, stepped up to the plate with a major donation to the Y just when the crisis broke. The Cargo Ventures donation enabled the Y to purchase gift cards for its members and the community.

"Cargo Ventures is pleased to help out this extraordinary organization," says Pat Capogreco, the firm's liaison to the community. "The staff members at the Y are working hard every day so that needy families in East Boston are fed. They are doing a tremendous job. As in East Boston resident and employee of Cargo Ventures, I am grateful that I can get help for the YMCA."

The YMCA is also using its resources to extend support beyond East Boston. Gaeta says its Ashley Street location has doubled up as a citywide kitchen staffed with two chefs that provide meals. The first chef also provides halal meals for East Boston's growing Muslim population while preparing 200 to 300 meals each time he cooks. The second chef is working with the city of Boston to produce 500 meals not only for East Boston but Dorchester and Roxbury.

"It's hard to figure out what's next," says Gaeta. He notes that the summer camp might take place during Phase 2 of the governor's reopening plan and maybe some semblance of normality not much later for online fitness, perhaps as early as June 29. The summer camp program draws 300 local kids.

The agency supports a pre-school program for 93 children, weekly programs for 75 seniors and afterschool programs for 200 children.

Teleconferencing online has kept everyone connected and in shape. Members have access to virtual fitness options that are streamed live and archived for usage on-demand.

Visit the East Boston YMCA's web site here.

You can support the Y with an online donation here.

Read more local news at Eastboston.com.

Photographs courtesy of the East Boston YMCA.

Building trades unions issue statement supporting Mayor Walsh on construction shutdown

From a press release by 617mediagroup.com

-Brian Doherty, General Agent, Building Trades Unions

“We support Mayor Walsh’s decision to take every step necessary to keep our communities safe. This is a worldwide pandemic and our public health community has made clear that social distancing is the only way to combat this virus. We support Mayor Walsh’s decision to take action and to put the health of the public first. We will be working with our unions and with our contractor partners to make sure every worker is safe and secure, and we are confident that by working together as a community, we will get through this difficult time.”

The Building & Construction Trades Council of the Metropolitan District represents 35,000 working families in the Metropolitan Boston region. The building trades unions advance social and economic justice by providing family-supporting wages, healthcare benefits and dignified retirement benefits to workers and their families in the construction industry.

The Building and Construction Trades Council, an umbrella group of 20 local construction unions, in partnership with more than 3,300 union contractors, provides the highest standards for workers in the construction industry. It is through collective bargaining and the Labor-Management partnership that workers achieve the highest levels of training, safety and economic security throughout their careers. The Council strives to create a more fair and just environment for all workers in the construction industry.

Source: 617Mediagroup.com

Mayor Walsh announces 2019 Environment and Transportation Legislative Agenda

(BOSTON - Tuesday, January 8, 2019) - Mayor Martin J. Walsh today announced his environment and transportation legislative package, the second of four legislative packages the City of Boston will be submitting to the Massachusetts Legislature. The six-bill package will strengthen the Commonwealth's commitment to the goals set out in the Paris Agreement and the City's goals to be carbon neutral by 2050. Mayor Walsh's legislative agenda builds upon the work of the Administration to ensure equity, opportunity and resilience for all residents by strengthening current systems and creating new tools to adapt, mitigate and invest in local transportation and the environment.

"Addressing the threat of climate change and making sure we keep up with our transportation needs goes beyond city limits. That's why we must work together with the Massachusetts Legislature on issues of climate mitigation and adaptation, and do everything we can to address congestion and increase safety in our streets," said Mayor Walsh. "I'm proud to propose legislation that will explore incentives to reduce pollution and create a statewide vehicle to work on resiliency projects, as well as proposals that would provide investment in transportation infrastructure."

Environment

Mayor Walsh's second legislative package of the year focuses on Boston's shared commitment and leadership with the Commonwealth to be robust environmental stewards, strengthening our ability to address climate change and its impacts. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions to be in line with the Paris Agreement while preparing for rising sea levels and extreme weather events is a shared responsibility that requires immediate legislative action. To that end, the environmental bills proposed seek to create a statewide vehicle to work on resiliency projects and explore market incentives to reduce pollution.

This work builds on Mayor Walsh's recent vision plan for a Resilient Boston Harbor. This comprehensive and transformative vision calls for investing in Boston's waterfront to protect against the impacts of rising sea level and climate change. The Mayor's plan lays out strategies along Boston's 47-mile shoreline that will increase access and open space along the waterfront while better protecting the city during a major flooding event.  

The City has already completed segments of the Resilient Boston Harbor plan through district-level projects in East Boston, Charlestown, and South Boston. These projects led to immediate action along the East Boston Greenway where a deployable flood wall was installed last year, an elevated section of Main St. in Charlestown was added to the design of the City's Rutherford Ave. and Sullivan Square project, the ongoing planning for Moakley Park in South Boston to prepare it for coastal and stormwater flooding, and the construction of Martin's Park in the Seaport, which is expected to be completed this year.

Most recently the City, in partnership with the Boston Planning and Development Agency (BPDA), submitted its proposal for a $10 million FEMA pre-mitigation grant to begin resilience work along the Fort Point Channel. As the City continues to make strides towards building a more climate-ready Boston, it will begin its next district-level planning project for the Downtown and North End neighborhoods early this year and begin the same work in Dorchester later this year.  

Furthering strengthening Mayor Walsh's commitment to protecting Boston against rising sea levels and climate change, the City is accelerating its progress toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The City of Boston is committed to being carbon neutral by 2050. Early this year the City will begin the process to update its Climate Action Plan. The update will provide an implementation roadmap to achieve carbon neutrality in Boston, identifying the immediate next steps Boston must take to reach its goals. Most recently the City rolled out its regulation of single-use plastic bags, encouraging all customers to switch to reusable bags when shopping in Boston and help move the City toward zero waste. The City also took a big step forward in implementation of Community Choice Energy by seeking proposals from qualified consultants to develop a municipal energy aggregation program and by convening a community-led working group to inform the program design.  

As a leading city on climate action, the City was named a winner of the Bloomberg American Cities Climate Challenge as Boston works to strengthen and accelerate its progress toward reducing carbon emissions. The City will receive a support package, valued at up to $2.5 million, to increase low-carbon mobility choices and improve energy performance of Boston's building sector.

"Massachusetts residents are already feeling the impacts of climate change, from hotter summers to increased coastal flooding and heavier rainfall. Our research has shown that to address these challenges and protect vulnerable communities, we need partnership among local, regional and state government," said Rebecca Herst, Executive Director of the Sustainable Solutions Lab at UMass Boston. "We applaud Mayor Walsh for proposing a comprehensive approach to protect communities throughout the Commonwealth and encourage better governance for all."

The environmental bills in the Mayor's legislative package include:

An Act to Establish a Commission for a Climate Ready Commonwealth: would create a regional commission to determine which entity should lead major coastal and inland resiliency projects, how such projects might be funded and how those projects should be prioritized. Boston is not alone in facing the threat of climate change, and all communities are experiencing the reality of extreme heat, snow, rain, and flooding. As the impacts increase and intensify, it's more important now than ever before to coordinate investments to adapt infrastructure and our natural and built environment to future climate conditions.

An Act to Modernize our Natural Gas Infrastructure: would impose a fine on natural gas providers for the total volume of all gas leaks, incentivizing the utility companies to update their infrastructure and providing revenue for climate-ready municipal projects. Natural gas is a powerful greenhouse gas and significant contributor to climate change. The City of Boston and all other cities and towns throughout the Commonwealth have outdated and aging natural gas infrastructure. Gas leaks not only harm the environment but are a public safety issue, public health concern, and financial burden to ratepayers.

For more information on the City's environmental work, please visit  boston.gov/environment.

Transportation

As Boston's population continues to grow, with projected growth to reach almost 760,000 people by the year 2030, Mayor Walsh is proposing four transportation bills aimed at efficiently supporting residents by providing investment in transportation infrastructure, reducing carbon emissions from motor vehicles, and providing for safer streets.

The bills further goals established in Go Boston 2030, the City of Boston's comprehensive transportation plan. Execution of the plan is well underway with action being taken on more than half of the 58 projects and policies identified. These initiatives work to reduce traffic, encourage travel by transit, bike and on foot, and ensure safety and access equitably for all users of Boston's streets.
Examples include partnering with the MBTA to promote the use of public transit by establishing a dedicated bus lane on a section of Washington Street in Roslindale that serves eight different bus lines carrying thousands of passengers daily; incorporating new techniques and upgraded equipment into roadway projects to advance our Vision Zero goal of eliminating traffic fatalities and severe injuries in Boston by 2030; and working to build a network of low stress, strategically placed, separated or buffered bike lanes to allow for safe travel by bike throughout Downtown and Boston's neighborhoods.

"Mayor Walsh's legislative agenda is comprehensive and future-oriented," said Marc Draisen, Executive Director of the Metropolitan Area Planning Council. "It includes incentives to address climate and transportation issues, as well as penalties for behavior that stands in the way of progress. We are particularly pleased that the City of Boston will support Regional Ballot Initiatives to generate revenue for critical improvements in our transportation infrastructure. This is a major source of revenue for roads and transit around the country, and we need this tool in Massachusetts too."

The transportation bills in the Mayor's legislative package include:

An Act to Allow Regional Ballot Initiatives: would allow cities and towns in Massachusetts to work together to pass taxes that would be used to fund specific transportation projects.

An Act to Promote Safe Streets and Reduce Congestion: would allow photo enforcement for school buses with cameras to capture violations when the STOP arm is deployed and for addressing Blocking the Box traffic violations. This bill is part of a broader road safety legislative agenda, which includes support of previously-filed bills related to sideguards on trucks and cell phone use while driving.

An Act to Allow Parking Assessments for Infrastructure Investment: would allow cities and towns to add an assessment to spaces in private parking garages, to be used to build and maintain roads and bridges, as well as bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure.

An Act to Update Transportation Network Company Assessments: would update the existing TNC legislation to better align it with the State's and City's climate and mobility goals.  In particular, it would create a lower assessment for shared trips, a higher assessment for solo trips, and encourage walking, biking and transit as primary modes of travel.

For more information on the City's transportation work, please visit boston.gov/transportation.

Boston named winner in Bloomberg American Cities Climate Challenge

Challenge awards winning cities with resources and technical support to help achieve their ambitious climate goals

BOSTON - Sunday, October 21, 2018 - Further strengthening Mayor Martin J. Walsh's commitment to protect Boston against rising sea levels and climate change, the City of Boston was today named a winner of the Bloomberg American Cities Climate Challenge as Boston works to strengthen and accelerate its progress toward reducing carbon emissions. The City will receive a support package, valued at up to $2.5 million, to increase low-carbon mobility choices and improve energy performance of Boston's building sector.

"We're serious about building a more climate-ready Boston. If we're to be effective in preparing for rising sea levels and more intense storms, we have to accelerate our actions to reduce carbon emissions. Addressing climate change now is critical to ensuring a greener, healthy Boston for future generations," said Mayor Walsh. "I'm grateful to Bloomberg for recognizing the power of cities to address climate change as we continue to move forward with our ambitious climate goals."

Earlier this week Mayor Walsh laid out a comprehensive and transformative vision that will invest in Boston's waterfront to protect the City's residents, homes, jobs, and infrastructure against the impacts of rising sea level and climate change. Announced in his annual speech to the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce, the Mayor's plan, "Resilient Boston Harbor," lays out strategies along Boston's 47-mile shoreline that will increase access and open space along the waterfront while better protecting the city during a major flooding event. This week's announcements demonstrate Boston's commitment to building a more resilient Boston through both adaptation and mitigation.

Resilient Boston Harbor builds off of Imagine Boston 2030 and uses the City's Climate Ready Boston 2070 flood maps and coastal resilience neighborhood studies to focus on Boston's most vulnerable flood pathways. The strategies laid out in the plan include elevated landscapes, enhanced waterfront parks, flood resilient buildings, and revitalized and increased connections and access to the waterfront. The strategies will require collaboration and funding between federal, state, private, philanthropic and nonprofit partners.

Further strengthening the City's commitment to addressing climate change from all angles, Boston was selected as a winning city in the Bloomberg American Cities Climate Challenge because of its innovative and ambitious climate action plans to reduce air pollution and city-wide emissions from its building and transportation sectors. Boston will use the support to accelerate climate action by:

    Supporting further deployment of the Go Boston 2030 bike network and neighborhood slow streets traffic-calming program to create safe and stress-free walking and biking in the areas that need them most,
    Introducing additional programs to reduce single-occupancy car use and support electric vehicle adoption to make low-carbon transportation the mode of choice for residents and commuters alike,
    Providing Boston's commercial and institutional buildings access to innovative project finance programs to improve their energy performance,
    Helping large buildings to benefit from existing energy performance incentives and cutting-edge technologies, and
    Building workforce development programs and an energy resource center with an emphasis on serving low-income communities.


"When Bloomberg Philanthropies announced the Climate Challenge, cities all across the country, with both Republican and Democratic mayors, put forward thoughtful and innovative proposals," said Michael R. Bloomberg. "Selecting the ones with the boldest goals - and the most realistic plans for reaching them - was not easy. But Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Boston, and D.C. all stood out, and we're glad to include them in the group of winners. With our federal government asleep at the wheel, cities are more important than ever in the fight against climate change - and these cities are stepping up to the challenge. Congratulations to them all."

The Bloomberg American Cities Climate Challenge is a $70 million dollar program that will accelerate 20 ambitious cities' efforts to tackle climate change and promote a sustainable future for residents. Through the Climate Challenge - which is part of Bloomberg's American Cities Initiative, a suite of more than $200 million in investments to strengthen city halls and advance critical policies - Bostonis accepted into a two-year acceleration program, will be provided powerful new resources and access to cutting-edge support to help meet or beat the city's near-term carbon reduction goals.

The program is led by experts at the Natural Resources Defense Council, Delivery Associates and others, to help winning cities meet - or beat - their near-term carbon reduction goals, from creating high-impact policies to putting them into action. The resources include a philanthropy-funded team member to facilitate the development and passage of high impact policies, training for senior leadership to assist with implementation of their proposed climate plans, and citizen engagement support to maximize community buy-in.

About Bloomberg Philanthropies
Bloomberg Philanthropies works in 480 cities in more than 120 countries around the world to ensure better, longer lives for the greatest number of people. The organization focuses on five key areas for creating lasting change: Arts, Education, Environment, Government Innovation, and Public Health. Bloomberg Philanthropies encompasses all of Michael R. Bloomberg's charitable activities, including his foundation and his personal giving. In 2017, Bloomberg Philanthropies distributed $702 million. For more information, please visit www.bloomberg.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and Twitter.

About the Bloomberg American Cities Climate Challenge
Recognizing that cities account for more than 70% of global carbon emissions, the Bloomberg American Cities Climate Challenge was formed with an investment of $70 million to enhance the work already being done by mayors across the U.S. and to support cities in the fight against climate change. The Bloomberg American Cities Climate Challenge aims to go beyond the theoretical and scale up high-impact urban climate solutions that are already proven to succeed - specifically, from the buildings and transportation sectors. World-class partners for the Bloomberg American Cities Climate Challenge will be led by the Natural Resources Defense Council and Delivery Associates. The Bloomberg American Cities Climate Challenge is part of Mike Bloomberg's American Cities Initiative, a suite of more than $200 million in investments to strengthen city halls and advance critical policies.

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Mayor Walsh: Back to School, a letter to all Boston students.

Back to School 

By Mayor Martin J. Walsh

Dear Students, 

September is one of my favorite months. The weather is getting cooler, football is back in season, and students like yourselves are heading back to school.

You might not know it, but it takes a village to prepare for the first day of school. Your teachers, principals, and custodians have spent the summer getting ready for the big day--- creating lessons, preparing your classrooms, and planning the great adventures you’re sure to have this year. 

The first day of school provides countless opportunities. You’ll find new ways to develop as students, athletes, artists, and leaders. You’ll reconnect with old friends, and make new ones. It’s a fresh start--- a chance to start things off on the right foot. I hope that you will set new goals, and work hard to make this your best school year yet. 

The new year will also bring new challenges. But persevering is an important part of school and growing up. I can say that from personal experience. When I was seven, I was diagnosed with cancer. I had to miss a lot of school for treatments and I even had to repeat fifth grade. But the support of my family, my teachers, and my friends helped me pull through. That’s the strength of the Boston community. I hope you know that our city will always have your back, too. If you’re ever going through a hard time, don’t hesitate to ask a trusted adult, a teacher, or your school community for help. We’re all here to root one another on. 

Whatever this school year has in store, I wish you the best of luck. Challenge yourselves. Try new things. And put your best foot forward. If you start the school year with an open mind and an open heart, there’s nothing you can’t achieve. I’ll be rooting for you every step of the way. 

I’ll see you soon, 

Mayor Walsh 

Mayor Walsh files amended ordinance establishing guidelines and regulations for short-term rentals in Boston

BOSTON - Wednesday, May 9, 2018 - Mayor Martin J. Walsh today announced that he has filed an amended citywide ordinance establishing guidelines and regulations to better track and regulate short-term rentals in the City of Boston.

The updated ordinance is the result of collaboration with the Boston City Council and conversations among residents, advocates, and public and private stakeholders that reflect the shared goal of providing economic opportunities for residents and temporary accommodation for visitors, while preserving Boston's housing stock.

The regulations put forth modify Mayor Walsh's original ordinance filed in January, and further aim to capture the growth of Boston's growing home-share industry, while including deterrents to prevent operators from monopolizing Boston's housing market with short-term rentals. 

In addition, the regulations provide a standardized framework for regulating these units that both meet the needs of the evolving industry, provide protections for occupants and minimize the impact on surrounding neighbors of these units.

"Thoughtful regulation of short-term rentals that balance our efforts to preserve housing affordability with the growing demand for short-term rentals is key to keeping our communities stable,"said Mayor Walsh. "Boston is a great place to live and visit, and we look forward to responsibly incorporating the growth of the home-share industry into our work to create affordable housing options for all."

The ordinance allows for greater flexibility for property owners looking to list their primary residence as a short-term rental, as well as for owners of multi-unit properties.

The ordinance takes a three-tiered approach to classifying short-term rental units:

• Limited Share Unit: consists of a private bedroom or shared space in the owner-operator's primary residence, in which the operator is present during the rental. The fee associated with this classification is $25 per year.
• Home Share Unit: consists of a whole unit available for a short-term rental at the primary residence of the owner-operator (unit in which operator resides for at least nine months out of a 12 month period). The fee associated with this classification is $200 per year.
• Owner-Adjacent Unit: consists of an owner-occupied two- or three-family building, in which the owner lists a secondary unit as a short-term rental for up to 120 nights per year. In addition, the owner is able to list their primary residence for an unlimited number of nights-per-year. The fee associated with this classification is $200 per year.

"This ordinance offers reasonable regulations of short-term rentals to close corporate loopholes, protect our housing stock, and stabilize neighborhoods," said Boston City Councilor Michelle Wu. "I'm proud to support this legislation as the Mayor and City Council work together to stem Boston's housing crisis."

The regulations also provide protections for the occupants of the short-term rental unit by prohibiting any property with outstanding housing, sanitary, building, fire or zoning-code violations from being listed. In addition, the operator is required to provide notice to abutters of a short-term rental unit within 30 days of approved registration.

The regulations require the unit to register with the City of Boston each year to verify compliance with the provisions of the ordinance, and pay an annual license fee. Penalties will be incurred to any person who offers an ineligible unit as a short-term rental, fails to register, or fails to comply with a notice of violation.

To assist with the enforcement of regulations, booking platforms will be required to provide the City with monthly data and information relative to the short-term rental listings that detail the location and occupancy numbers.

In January, the City released a Request for Information (RFI) to identify software solutions that will enable operators to register and renew short-term rental units online, and facilitate the enforcement of the conditions of allowable short-term rental use. The City is currently reviewing responses to the RFI.

Today's announcement builds on Mayor Walsh's commitment to addressing the housing demands in Boston. To date, the Walsh Administration has committed more than $100 million in funding to the creation and preservation of affordable housing. Today's announcement builds on the City's preservation and anti-displacement goals, outlined in Housing a Changing City: Boston 2030, Mayor Walsh's housing plan, and the housing goals laid out in Imagine Boston 2030, Boston's first citywide plan in 50 years. As part of both plans, Boston has prioritized increasing the overall housing supply, with a focus on creating and preserving affordable housing.

Since the launch of the housing plan, 24,454 new units have been permitted. When complete, these developments will be enough to house 48,600 new residents, and begin to relieve pressure on rents in existing housing.  Of these, 4,649 new income-restricted units have been permitted, of which 2,234 are targeted to low income households. There are an additional 4,240 deed-restricted units in the City's development pipeline.

Data shows that the availability of short-term rental units has a direct correlation to housing costs. A 2016 study by UMass Boston found a 0.4% increase in rent prices due to increases in AirBNB listings, and a nationwide UCLA student also found a 0.42% increase.

In addition to rent increases, the commercialization of short-term rentals in residential dwellings and residential neighborhoods has the potential to reduce availability of long-term housing for owners and tenants alike, and is contrary to the Administration's goal of adding 53,000 units of housing across a variety of income levels by 2030.

In addition to creating new housing, the Walsh Administration is focused on protecting the tenancies of Boston's residents, launching the nation's first Office of Housing Stability in 2016.  In addition, Mayor Walsh has strengthened tenants' access to information by creating the city's first online guide to the eviction process.'

Source: Mayor's Press Office

City Councilor-Elect Lydia Edwards Hires Staff to Start January 2018

NorthEndWaterfront.com has the news: City Councilor-Elect Lydia Edwards Hires Staff to Start January 2018

Jack Kelly Endorses Lydia Edwards for Boston City Council

BOSTON (October 25, 2017) —Jack Kelly, lifelong Charlestown resident and former city councilor-at-large candidate, endorsed Lydia Edwards for district one Boston city councilor.

“I am proud to endorse Lydia Edwards for Boston City Council to represent East Boston, the North End, and my beloved home of Charlestown,” says Kelly. “Lydia will bring a fresh perspective, an independent voice and above all else, a relentless advocacy for all residents of Charlestown.”

“Lydia and I met initially as opponents. Over the course of the summer, she knocked on my door, as she did for many of my neighbors. I was impressed by her tenacious intellect, experience and desire to learn about all of the important issues facing our community.”

“In addition, Lydia's willingness to listen and receive feedback from those in recovery, demonstrate her ability to lead on day one for all.”

“We need bold, independent leadership as Charlestown faces major projects like One Charlestown, the North Washington Street Bridge, and Wynn Casino. I trust Lydia to do right by our neighborhood and I know she’ll stand with us.”

“I hope my neighbors in District 1 will join me in voting for Lydia on November 7th.”

"Jack's endorsement means a lot to me,” said Edwards. “His personal journey deserves an immense amount of respect.  But more than just his personal story, his work in Charlestown on many of the issues we face in District 1 - such as traffic, addiction prevention and housing is something I highly value.   I am beyond humbled to receive his support.”

“We met as opponents and became friends while we discussed ideas for recovery, traffic and the need for strong, independent leadership in Charlestown. If elected, I will continue to rely on Jack for his friendship, guidance and leadership for all of District 1, but especially Charlestown.”

Edwards, a public interest attorney and community advocate, is no stranger to public service. She has spent her career fighting for women and working families. In her role as the Deputy Director of the city’s new Office of Housing Stability, she found innovative solutions to mitigating Boston’s housing crisis and stood up for vulnerable members of our community by co-founding East Boston’s community soup kitchen.

Lydia's top priorities include ensuring pathways to homeownership for all residents, quality public schools for local families, responsible community-driven development, and reliable transportation.

Edwards is a resident of East Boston with her husband, Rogerio, a licensed electrician and small business owner. The general election will take place on Tuesday November, 7th. For more information please visit: www.lydiaedwards.org.

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Source: Edwards Campaign 10/25

Conexions 20th Anniversary Event: June 16

On June 16th 2016 at 6p.m. on Waterside Way, East Boston, North Suffolk Mental Health Association (NSMHA) will host an event to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of Conexions Evening, the successful substance misuse program that has saved more than 2,000 lives since its founding in 1996.

Conexions is North Suffolk Mental Health Association’s intensive outpatient addiction use program.  It uses group and individual therapy to help individuals maintain sobriety. Treatment options include medication assistance to block the effects of opioid drugs. 
 
This “refreshing evening” represents the first community fundraiser North Suffolk has hosted in 5 years, and will be held at one of the most spectacular locations in East Boston: Waterside Way. The outdoor venue will open at 6 PM on June 16th. Live music, outdoor games, ample selection of hors d’oeuvres, refreshing drinks and a breathtaking view will entertain guests while interacting and chilling out on a summer evening.

Tickets can be purchased at www.northsuffolk.org and are $35, sponsorship opportunities are also available. Tickets sold will help North Suffolk Mental Health Association maintain the Conexions program. 

Waterfront Way is located at the end of Lewis Wharf, near Maverick Square and offers free on-street parking.

January 21: BRA Meeting on 202 Maverick Street Development

Boston Redevelopment Authority Community Meeting:
Maverick Shipyard Apartments at 202 Maverick Street

The proposed project at 202 Maverick Street is a 22,700 gross square foot, 3 story-plus penthouse structure with 23 residential units and 20 parking spaces on 8,050 square feet of land.
   
Date: Thursday, January 21, 2016  Time: 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Location: Logan Rental Car Center, 1st floor, Noddle Island Community Room, 15 Transportation Way, East Boston, MA 02128 DRIVING: Free event parking available in front of the building and in the Porter Street parking lot adjacent to the  building. WALKING: Situated at the end of Porter Street, just a 4-minute walk from the Embassy Suites Hotel.

May 9 "They Fought We Ride" for Wounded Vet Run

 

http://www.theyfoughtweride.com

New Boston Fed report finds large disparities in assets and debts among subpopulations in the greater Boston area

Source: Boston Federal Reserve Bank
(BOSTON, MA - March 26, 2015) In a new analysis of the economic well-being of several specific racial and ethnic groups by country of origin, a Boston Fed report
finds large disparities in wealth by race and ethnicity for the Boston metropolitan statistical area. The Color of Wealth in Boston report, released as part of a partnership between the Boston Fed, the Ford Foundation, and the Duke University's Consortium on Social Equity, is part of the National Asset Scorecard in Communities of Color (NASCC) initiative—a pilot survey conducted in targeted metropolitan areas to gain insights about the asset and debt positions of different
racial and ethnic groups.

The Color of Wealth in Boston provides an analysis of assets and debts focused on whites and nonwhites including U.S. born blacks, Caribbean blacks, Cape Verdeans, Puerto Ricans, and Dominicans, a detailed demographic breakdown that is not available in other surveys of income and wealth.

"The wide racial wealth gap we see in Boston is a worrisome sign that many families do not have sufficient assets to offer better opportunities for future generations," said Ana Patricia Muñoz, Director of Community Development Research at the Boston Fed and the  project manager of the Boston NASCC research effort. 


"We are releasing The Color of Wealth in Boston with the goal of encouraging discussions around potential changes in policy and practice at the state and local level that can help tackle the wealth gap, shown to be divergent between whites and nonwhites."


At the release of The Color of Wealth in Boston report on Thursday, a panel of practitioners, funders, and policymakers reacted  to the report's findings. They discussed how a multidimensional and cross-sectorial approach could help address wealth and income inequality at both the municipal and state levels. 


The panel included Massachusetts State Sen. James Eldridge; John Barros, City of Boston Chief of Economic Development; Angela Brown, Director of Programs at the Hyams Foundation; and Tom Shapiro, Director of the Institute on Assets and Social Policy at Brandeis University.

The release of this report builds on the Boston Fed's longstanding concern with the economic well-being of all Americans by providing aggregate data on the assets and debts of communities of color, and encouraging a policy discussion around potential solutions.

About the National Asset Scorecard in Communities of Color (NASCC)

The NASCC initiative has involved the design and implementation of a survey in targeted metropolitan areas (Boston, Los Angeles, Miami, Tulsa, and Washington,
D.C.) to gain insights about the asset and debt positions of racial and ethnic groups at the detailed country-of-origin level. The survey also ascertains unconventional financial information, such as families' use of payday lending and remittances. The NASCC principal investigators are William Darity Jr. (Duke University) and Darrick Hamilton (The New School).

Holiday Tournament News for Malden/East Boston Youth Hockey

From MEB

Over the Christmas and New Year’s break, we  Malden/East Boston Youth Hockey (MEB) teams are participating in the favorite 2014 Boston Mayor’s Cup tournament.  

With teams competing from all throughout Boston neighborhoods, we have some great competition and lots of opportunities to shine.  

Three teams are participating, one each at Mite, Squirt, and Pee Wee level. These players ranging in age from 8 to 12 years old have already encountered many challenges and victories over the past three months, but this tournament is a favorite for many reasons.

In years past, we have seen more than one of our MEB teams come away with the Championship in their division, and this year looks to be another contender for that thrilling feeling. With the Mites and the Pee Wees both scheduled to play in championship games at Boston College on Sunday, January 4, our chances look good.

The MEB Mites have won three games, dispensing of Hyde Park and two different Parkway teams, all with shutouts. Goal scorers from across the team have combined for 21 pucks in the net over the three preliminary games leading to the championship.

Our next oldest athletes, the Squirts, also fared well in one of their preliminary games, beating Allston by shutout 11-0, but falling to Dorchester and Hyde Park, they are out of contention for the championship.

The MEB Pee Wee team, playing a weekday game on Tuesday, December 30, also completed three preliminary contests with wins, and will appear in the big game on Sunday, January 4. The Pee Wees opened their tournament with a crushing defeat dealt to Hyde Park, wining 11-0. The second game was almost as devastating, winning 8-0. 

Tuesday’s 4-1 win against Dorchester gives them a seat at the championship game on Sunday. Stars of the Pee Wee team include Curtis, Birnbaum, Summers, Rufo, and Bocchino in goal turning away all but one in three games.

The players are all excited to play on Sunday at the home of the BC Eagles, the Kelley Rink at Conte Forum in Chestnut Hill.  The Mites are scheduled to play at 1:00 PM and the Pee Wees at 7:00 PM.

October is Italian-American Heritage Month: Kickoff tonight

America in History Landing of Columbus
Designs created & implemented by Constantino Brumidi (1805 - 1880)
the Michelangelo of the United States Capitol

A grand ceremony will kick off a month-long series of Italian-related events and happenings all across the Commonwealth.  

The ceremony will celebrate the impact Italian culture and language have had and continue to have in American society. 

The evening’s master of ceremonies will be Radio Hall of Famer Ron Della Chiesa.  

The evening’s honorees include State Rep. Angelo Scaccia (D-Readville), who serves the Commonwealth since 1973; retired Judge Joseph V. Ferrino, founder of Italian-American Heritage Month; and Pamela Donnaruma, publisher and editor of the Boston Post-Gazette, one of the country’s oldest ethnic newspapers and a recent addition to Washington D.C.’s Newseum. 

An In Memoriam award will be given to the late Gov. Argeo Paul Cellucci and will be accepted on his behalf by his wife Janet Cellucci.

Details about Italian-American Heritage Month can be found here. 

East Boston Branch of the Boston Public Library Awarded Prestigious LEED® Green Building Certification

East Boston Branch Library, Bremen St. (Photograph Frank Conte for EastBoston.com

(BOSTON, September 30, 2014)  – Today Mayor Martin J. Walsh announced that the East Boston Branch of the Boston Public Library earned LEED Gold certification.   Established by the U.S. Green Building Council and verified by the Green Building Certification Institute, LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design and is the world's foremost certification program for the design, construction, maintenance, and operation of green buildings.

“The City of Boston is committed to green design practices and eco-friendly development,” said Mayor Martin J. Walsh. “By earning LEED Gold certification, the state-of-the art East Boston branch demonstrates how a successful architectural addition to a community can also be a sustainable one.”

The East Boston Branch, a 15,000 square foot building at 365 Bremen Street designed by William Rawn Associates Architects, Inc., opened in November 2013. The library building earned LEED certification for green design and construction in the areas of energy use, lighting, water, and material use as well as incorporating a variety of other sustainable strategies. The City of Boston’s Property and Construction Management department managed this capital project. The East Boston Branch was funded by the City of Boston and the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.
More Photographs from EastBoston.com

The East Boston Branch features an open floor plan with dedicated areas for children, teens, and adults. The library overlooks scenic Bremen Street Park, complete with views of the Boston skyline from the library’s reading porch. The diversity of East Boston is signified and celebrated by stone pavers on the exterior of the Branch that show the name and distance to the capital cities of the top 21 countries of origin of the residents of East Boston. As part of the sustainable design of the library site, storm water from the roof and site is directed to three "learning gardens" along the side of the East Boston Branch. At each garden is an interpretive panel which tells visitors about the sustainable aspects of the Branch and the gardens.

“Learning starts the moment you step onto the library property in East Boston,” said Amy E. Ryan, President of the Boston Public Library. “From the beginning, this project strived to be an environmentally responsible community gathering place. It’s rewarding to have achieved LEED Gold certification for what is already such a cherished asset in the neighborhood.”

LEED certification of the East Boston Branch of the Boston Public Library was based on a number of green design and construction features that positively impact the project itself and the broader community. These features include: water conservation through storm water management, rainwater collection, underground recharge tanks, and low-flow bathroom fixtures; sustainably harvested and certified wood; underfloor ventilation and conditioning; a reflective roof; high-performance glass; daylight harvesting/dimming and occupancy sensors; 75 percent of construction waste was recycled; and use of low emitting materials and materials with recycled content.

“This building will not only have a long lasting impact on learning, but also on the City of Boston’s environmental footprint,” said Brian Swett, Chief of Environment, Energy and Open space. “Developing new municipal buildings in a sustainable way demonstrates the City’s commitment to building healthier buildings for our citizens and to reaching our goal of reducing municipal greenhouse gases 25 percent by 2020.”

About BOSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY

Boston Public Library has a Central Library, twenty-four branches, map center, business library, and a website filled with digital content and services. Established in 1848, the Boston Public Library has pioneered public library service in America. It was the first large free municipal library in the United States, the first public library to lend books, the first to have a branch library, and the first to have a children’s room. Each year, the Boston Public Library hosts thousands of programs and serves millions of people. All of its programs and exhibitions are free and open to the public. At the Boston Public Library, books are just the beginning. To learn more, visit bpl.org.

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John Sepulveda announces the release of the web site www.suffolkcountyprobate.com for the office of Suffolk County Register of Probate.

John Sepulveda announces the release of the web site www.suffolkcountyprobate.com for the office of Suffolk County Register of Probate. 

“I am proud to announce the launching of the website that the public can now see and use to navigate the complicated process at the registry of probate. “I felt that it was shameful that in the year 2014 the registry of probate did not have a simple website where the public could get information about the office of probate or download the necessary forms.”

“I am running for Register of Probate because I feel that there is a disconnect between the office and the public. The average citizen does not know what happens in Probate, why the office exists, or how to effectively access the services that this office provides.” Mr. Sepulveda said.

“The Registry of Probate does not need a politician receiving a reward for years of service, what it needs is a professional manager to run it properly and assure that the public receives the services they require.”

Mr. Sepulveda feels that a campaign should be about actions and not words and this is why he has launched the website as a candidate and began working for the best interest of the public before being elected.

Mr. Sepulveda has nearly 20 years of experience in community and government relations, community organizing, business planning and marketing, and communications. He is a team-builder, and is skilled in creating connections between the communities and government/business programs. For the past year, he has served as a senior account manager with United Healthcare, working with elders to ensure that prospective members understand all aspects of the Medicare Advantage program, as well as the Medicaid Special Needs Plan program.

The office of the Register of Probate and Family Court manages cases involving divorce, estate, child custody and other family matters. Its mission is to deliver timely justice to the public by providing equal access to a fair, equitable and efficient forum to resolve family and probate legal matters and to assist and protect all individuals, families and children in an impartial and respectful manner
 
 “I will bring the office of the Register of Probate to the public. This office needs to provide better services to the residents of Suffolk County and I will make sure that it does. I am going to establish partnerships with community organizations to hold seminars to inform the public of the services offered by the office, as well as the procedures that are required.”

John Sepulveda was born in Colombia and immigrated to East Boston when he was 11-years-old. He graduated from East Boston High School. He went on to attend the University of Massachusetts-Amherst where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree.

After college Mr. Sepulveda returned to East Boston where he served as a primary liaison to the Latin American community for the Neighborhood of Affordable Housing (NOAH). Later he worked as an aide to Boston City Councilor Sal Lamattina. He also organized four Latin American festivals, managed a Spanish language newspaper, oversaw a youth soccer league, supervised voter registration campaigns, and directed other community-based projects. He is considered a specialist in the cross cultural cross business needs of people.

Mr. Sepulveda is an active member of the EBHS School Site Council and the EBHS School Parent Council, and has volunteered his time to serve on various committees to benefit the students and families at the high school.
He is married to Marta and has two children: Pamela, who is a junior at EBHS, and Patrick, who is in the 6th grade at the Donald McKay School. “My greatest accomplishment to date is to be happily married to my wife for almost 20 years and to be a positive father figure to my children and be a person who has influenced their lives,” he said.
 
If you need more information about John Sepulveda or wish to volunteer for his campaign, please call (617) 418-7622 email: info@johnsforprobate.net
The primary election will be held September 9, 2014, and the final election is November 4, 2014.

East Boston APAC Community Hero Mary Cahalane to be honored at ABCD Community Awards on Sept. 16

Celebrating 50th Anniversary of Historic Economic Opportunity Act; Renowned community activists Sarah Ann Shaw, Hubie Jones join ABCD Hall of Fame;  The Supreme’s Mary Wilson to perform!

Action for Boston Community Development rolls out the festivities on September 16 in a gala celebration of 17 outstanding community volunteers who embody the spirit of the landmark Economic Opportunity Act, celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year. 

That historic 1964 EOA legislation launched the War on Poverty in America and gave birth to the nation’s community action programs, including ABCD. It spawned an era of opportunity and empowerment that moved millions out of poverty and created ongoing social institutions such as Legal Services, Head Start, Community Health Centers and more.

ABCD East Boston ABCD honors volunteer of the year

“One of the greatest ways you can spread kindness and help is to spend time with the elderly” says Mary Cahalane. 

A life-long East Boston resident and Boston Public School teacher for 32 years, Mary Cahalane has devoted her life to helping the community. As a 30-year member of St. Vincent DePaul Society, Mary served  as the first female president for 16 years and continues to offer person-to-person service to individuals in need. 

Mary Cahalane of East Boston APAC

Mary offers critical support to some of East Boston’s most vulnerable residents as a volunteer. Through her hands-on charitable work she is a vital part of the neighborhood, working to provide food, heating assistance, and emergency support and disaster relief services to help enhance the lives of those around her. 

ABCD Community Awards Dinner

“ABCD is proud to honor our community volunteers and others who go above and beyond to help those in need,” said ABCD President/CEO John J. Drew. “Their spirit and commitment speak to the essence of the EOA 50th anniversary that we celebrate this year. At ABCD, we are proud to persist in our work to achieve that landmark legislation’s mission ‘to eliminate the paradox that is poverty in the midst of plenty in this Nation…’  We look forward to a grand celebration of community and voluntarism!” 

Giving voice to the evening’s enthusiastic retro spirit is Mary Wilson of The Supremes! The flagship Motown girl group helped define the sound of young America in the 1960s with a slew of R&B/soul classics: Stop! In the Name of Love, You Can’t Hurry Love, Where Did our Love Go? and so many more. Today Mary Wilson performs with the same passion as she did then, and the world-renowned celebrity uses her fame and flair to promote humanitarian efforts to end hunger, raise AIDS awareness and encourage world peace.

Sarah Ann Shaw and Hubie Jones, two community icons who have made a difference for hundreds of thousands in Boston and beyond, will be inducted into the ABCD Hall of Fame.

Sarah Ann Shaw was Boston’s first female African-American television reporter and is a renowned community activist who ran ABCD’s neighborhood programs in the organization’s early days. A longtime Dorchester resident, she helped define minority affairs programming and news content and is the recipient of hundreds of journalistic and community awards.

Hubie Jones will be recognized for his vital role in Boston and America’s social justice movement. He has held numerous positions in academia, served in policy and management roles at several community institutions and played a leadership role in the social development of Boston and its people. Reverend Liz Walker, award-winning television journalist, former anchor, WBZ-TV/Channel 4 and ordained minister, will deliver the invocation. Karen Holmes Ward, Director of Public Affairs and Community Services as well as host/executive producer, CityLine, WCVB-TV/Channel 5, is mistress of ceremonies. 

The 17 community volunteers to be recognized for their tireless efforts to address the plight of Boston’s underprivileged residents and communities are: Griselda Polanco, Allston/Brighton NOC, Elyas Harris, Asian American Civic Association, Stephanie Simmons, Dorchester NSC, Mary Cahalane, East Boston APAC, Fran Johnson, Elder Services, Liz Miranda, Elm Hill FSC, Crystal Jones, Head Start & Children Services, Eugenia Smith, Health Services, Pansy Langley, HP/Project Care & Concern, Jane Reitz, John F. Kennedy FSC, Michael Baker, Jamaica Plain APC/Boston Hispanic Center, Audrey Downey, Mattapan FSC, Marian O’Neill, North End/West End NSC, Carmen Pola, Parker Hill/Fenway NSC, Anne Brennan, South Boston APAC, Dareline Jackson, South End NSC and Cynthia Penton-Bell, Women’s Service Club of Boston.

For more information, please contact Amelia at 617-348-6238 or email amelia.auborg@bostonabcd.org.

About ABCD:

ABCD serves more than 100,000 low-income Boston-area residents through its central offices and a decentralized network of Neighborhood Service Centers (NSCs), Head Start centers, Family Planning sites and Foster Grandparent sites. Programs and affiliations include Fuel Assistance; Head Start; Child Care Services; Child Care Choices of Boston; Education; Career Development; Housing and Homelessness Prevention Services; Health Services; Family Planning; Urban College of Boston; University High – an Alternative High School; Ostiguy High School for high school students in recovery; Weatherization; Foster Grandparents; Elder Services; Intergenerational Programs; Food Pantries in several Boston neighborhoods; management of the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC), Commonwealth of Massachusetts Employees Charitable Campaign (COBECC) and City of Boston Employees Charitable Campaign (COBECC); advocacy and consumer services.

Source: ABCD 8/27                                                                                        ###

East Boston Main Streets announces 14th annual Countdown to Kindergarten Parade

On Friday, September 5, 2014 East Boston Main Streets will hold the 14th Annual Countdown to Kindergarten Parade at 10:30 am at Central Square in East Boston.

(East Boston, MA 24-August-2014) East Boston Main Streets and Countdown to Kindergarten along with the East Boston Social Center, EBYMCA, Little Folks, Head Start, the Boston Police, and the MBTA will host the 14th Annual Countdown to Kindergarten parade. With the help of many groups and individuals and the generosity of local merchants every child in East Boston who is entering kindergarten will receive school supplies, a brand new backpack, and enjoy a festive day designed to provide a positive experience as they begin their formal education. 

file photo; EBMS

This year’s Parade is scheduled for Friday, September 5th at 10:30 am. Anywhere from 300 to 500 kindergarten-age children will gather at Central Square in East Boston with their parents, guardians, and volunteers from the various local early-education centers.

Before the children step off the curb, East Boston Main Streets will announce a $5,000 college scholarship in the form of a 529 college savings bond generously provided by Airmall Boston.  This scholarship will be tied to impeccable class attendance during the school year and will be awarded to one East Boston kindergartener at the end of the 2014/15 academic year.

During the Parade the children will wear yellow shirts saying “I’m Going to Kindergarten” provided by the City of Boston. Along the walk the children will stop at over 20 participating businesses in the neighborhood to receive small gifts.  At the end of the parade the children will return to the park for pizza donated by a local restaurant.

For more information contact Sonia Gomez-Banrey at 617.635.6816 or the East Boston Main Street office at 617.561.1044.  Also, please visit the Countdown to Kindergarten website at http://www.countdowntokindergarten.org  or visit them on Facebook.