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Policymakers across the northeastern United States and eastern Canada are grappling with the best way to navigate a complicated transition to clean energy, and a group of experts wants them to consider sharing power more directly across the border. Clean energy advocates and academics laid out a case Wednesday for embracing a "bidirectional" approach, which would split Canadian hydropower and New England offshore wind energy for the two countries depending on fluctuations in availability and demand. That strategy, they said, could lower the costs of shifting toward clean sources of power and decarbonizing the grid. (Above, a Hydro-Quebec dam)
TOWN
OF FRANKLIN
Tues.
Oct 15
Community
Relations Sub Comm. agenda
5:30pm
Weds.
Oct 16
5:00pm
Economic
Development Subcommittee Meeting
5:45pm
7:00pm
Thurs.
Oct
17
Senior
Coffee Hour w/ State & Local Officials
8:30am
Town
Council Office Hours at the Sr. Center
8:30am
Charles
River Pollution agenda
3:00pm
4:30pm
Conservation
Commission Meeting
7:00pm
Fri.
Oct
18
1:30pm to 2:30pm
TOWN
OF MEDWAY
Tues.
Oct. 15
Medway
Water
Sewer Advisory Board Meeting
4:30pm
Medway
Redevelopment Authority
6:00pm
7:00pm
Weds.
Oct.
16
Medway
Energy
& Sustainability Committee Meeting
7:00pm
Medway
Zoning
Board of Appeals Meeting - CANCELLED
7:30pm
Thurs.
Oct. 17
Charles
River Pollution Control District Meeting
3:00pm
Medway
Memorial
Committee Meeting
4:40pm
Medway
Economic
Development Committee meeting - CANCELLED
7:00pm
Medway
Conservation
Commission Meeting
7:30pm
STATE
HOUSE AND BEYOND
The candidates in the only statewide race in Massachusetts other than the presidential contest are set to meet for debates Tuesday and Thursday. U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren beat Scott Brown in 2012 and Geoff Diehl in 2018. She's looking for a third six-year term after running unsuccessfully for president in 2020, and this year her opponent is Republican John Deaton of Bolton, who is comparing himself to former Gov. Charlie Baker and pitching himself as an alternative who would take a more moderate approach to the job. On the policy front, there's a stark juxtaposition between the debates occurring over 10 proposals that supporters hope will become law this year. On Beacon Hill, top Democrats refuse to let outsiders in to learn why they've struggled so mightily to reach agreements on bills that passed both branches overwhelmingly. Both branches have registered sweeping support for bills addressing economic development, substance use, prescription drugs, health care oversight, and clean energy, but House Speaker Ron Mariano, Senate President Karen Spilka and their top deputies have closed deliberations and won't even discuss what's bogging down their talks.
Facing the prospect of passing ideas through a Legislature that has difficulty agreeing on popular bills, supporters of five ballot questions have circumvented the General Court entirely and jumped through the hoops required to get proposals before the electorate. The ballot question debate won't feature floor amendments or conference committees, just up-or-down votes by residents on proposed laws governing the auditor's power to probe the Legislature, the use of the MCAS as a graduation requirement, the ability of app-based drivers to unionize, the legalization of natural psychedelic substances like mushrooms, and the wages paid to tipped workers. Campaigns for and against those initiative petitions are emptying out their arsenals of arguments and draining their budgets to deliver the traditional blur of money and messaging as more voters begin to look more closely at the debates they are being asked to decide this year. The verdicts on the ballot questions will be submitted in full on Nov. 5, but it's looking more and more likely that decisions on the major bills before the Legislature won't come until after the election, if they come at all this year.
GBH News will host debates on the ballot questions this week. Also on the docket for the coming days: Gov. Maura Healey will take questions from members of the public in her semi-regular radio segment on GBH, Worcester will cut the ribbon on a new high school building, candidates will look to pick up some pre-election cash at a smattering of fundraisers, the state's police oversight commission will host a talk on physical fitness for law enforcement officers, and the fishing industry will treat occupants of the State House to samples of their catches at an annual Seafood Day.
Sunday, Oct. 13, 2024
McGRANE ON 4: Boston Globe political editor Victoria McGrane is on "Keller At Large" previewing the WBZ-TV/Globe U.S. Senate debate set for Oct. 15 between Elizabeth Warren and John Deaton. McGrane and Jon Keller also talk about the migrant crisis and results of a new Globe poll on the fall ballot questions. (Sunday, 8:30 a.m., WBZ-TV Ch. 4)
SERVICE ACADEMY DAY: U.S. Rep. Clark hosts her annual Service Academy Day, which is geared toward students potentially seeking a Congressional nomination to West Point, the Naval Academy or the Air Force Academy. There will be an FAQ panel, and students can also ask questions about the nomination process.(Sunday, 11 a.m., Malden Senior Center, 7 Washington St., Malden)
TUTWILER ON 5: Education Secretary Tutwiler is on "On The Record" answering questions from Sharman Sacchetti and Ed Harding about the MCAS ballot question. (Sunday, 11 a.m., WCVB-TV Ch. 5)
DOO-WOP FOR TRUMP: An event called "Doo Wop for the Donald" will feature live music, dancing, food and raffles. It's hosted by Helene "Teddy" MacNeal, co-chair of MA Women for Trump. Tickets cost $40, and the event wraps up at 6 p.m. (Sunday, 2 p.m., Oct. 13, Clark-Haddad Post 188 American legion, 20 Main St., Sandwich | More Info)
Monday, Oct. 14, 2024
TIPPED WORKERS DEBATE: Representatives from opposing sides of Question 5 regarding tipped workers on this fall's ballot debate on GBH News. Estefania Galvis with One Fair Wage, the 'yes' campaign, and Doug Bacon from Committee To Protect Tips from the 'no' camp will debate the ballot initiative. Question 5 would gradually increase the minimum wage that employers need to pay tipped workers until it mirrors the traditional minimum wage for all other workers statewide. (Monday, 11 a.m. | WGBH-FM 89.7 and GBH News Online)
COLUMBUS DAY CELEBRATION: The Italian American Alliance hosts a Columbus Day Cultural Celebration featuring Italian food, pastries, raffles every hour, music, vendors, a puppet and magic show, and a cash bar. (Monday, 12 p.m., Tall Ship Park, One East Pier Dr., East Boston)
GALVIN AT TOPSFIELD FAIR: Secretary of State Galvin, the state's top elections official, visits the Topsfield Fair to highlight options in the upcoming election. In-person early voting begins on Oct. 19. Galvin will also encourage voter registration and provide information about the five ballot questions voters will decide. The secretary's booth is located through Gate A past Kiddie Land and before the Grange Building. (Monday, 12 p.m., Topsfield Fair, Topsfield)
Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024
LYNN MENTAL HEALTH: Lynn Site Board, housed within the Department of Mental Health, meets remotely. Agenda items include a treasurer's report, local community services updates, board member recruitment, and a presentation from Rachel Cooper, program director of the YOUForward Access Center in Everett, which offers mental health support for young adults ages 16 to 26. (Tuesday, 9:30 a.m. | Agenda and Access)
BOSTON CHAMBER FORUM: The Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce hosts a government affairs forum, with Treasurer Deb Goldberg as the keynote speaker. Goldberg will discuss her priorities to the business community, according to the chamber, and sit down for a Q&A with chamber CEO Jim Rooney. (Tuesday, 9:45 a.m., Bank of America Building, 100 Federal St., Boston)
LOWELL DTA: Department of Transitional Assistance's Lowell Advisory Board meets remotely. Agenda includes updates on program and business processes, plus new initiatives. (Tuesday, 10 a.m. | Agenda and Access)
HAZARDOUS CODE COMMITTEE: Hazardous Code Committee, housed within the Department of Fire Services, meets remotely. Members will review certificates outlined in the Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire Safety Code. (Tuesday, 10 a.m. | Agenda and Access)
WORCESTER ELECTRIC NETWORK: Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce and National Grid host a discussion about the city's secondary electric network. The presentation will cover visual inspection of vaults, easements, changes in building code requirements and more. (Tuesday, 10:30 a.m., Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce, 311 Main St., Suite 200, Worcester)
HOUSE: House meets in an informal session. (Tuesday, 11 a.m., House Chamber | Livestream)
SENATE: Senate meets without a calendar. (Tuesday, 11 a.m., Senate Chamber | Livestream)
PSYCHEDELICS DEBATE: Representatives from opposing sides of Question 4 regarding statewide legalization of certain types of psychedelic substances debate on GBH News. Emily Oneschuk from Yes On 4 and Dr. Nassir Ghaemi, president of the MA Psychiatric Society who opposes the ballot initiative, will debate. Question 4 would legalize certain types and small quantities of psychedelic substances, including psilocybin and psilocin found in mushrooms, and dimethyltryptamine, mescaline and ibogaine found in plants. (Tuesday, 11 a.m. | WGBH-FM 89.7 and GBH News Online)
ASK THE AG: Attorney General Campbell participates in an "Ask the AG" segment on "Boston Public Radio" during a live interview at the GBH News studio in Boston Public Library in Copley Square. (Tuesday, 12 p.m., WGBH-FM 89.7 and GBH News Online)
BERKSHIRE MENTAL HEALTH: Berkshire Site Board, housed within the Department of Mental Health, meets. Agenda items deal with citizen concerns and DMH site updates. (Tuesday, 12 p.m. | More Info)
HOME TO HOSPITAL PROGRAM: Massachusetts Health and Hospital Association holds a webinar about the ASAP Home to Hospital Program, a state-funded collaboration between hospitals and Aging Services Access Points. The program is designed to help hospitals discharge patients directly to home and community-based services, instead of skilled nursing facilities or other institutional settings. Speakers include Betsey Crimmins of Mass Aging Access and Lisa Felci Jimenez of Mystic Valley Elder Services. (Tuesday, 12 p.m. | Register)
UMASS AMHERST CENTER AT SPRINGFIELD: The 26,000 square foot UMass Amherst Center at Springfield will be named for Henry M. Thomas III, "the first person of color to lead the UMass Board of Trustees and former President of the Urban League of Springfield," according to the university. Guest speakers include UMass President Marty Meehan, UMass Amherst Chancellor Javier Reyes, and Congressman Richard Neal. (Tuesday, 12:30 p.m., Tower Square, 1500 Main St., Springfield)
REVOLUTION 250TH: Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility Subcommittee of the commission planning celebrations for the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution meets virtually. The agenda calls for introductions, remarks from the co-chair, discussion of the founding legislation that created the commission and an outline of future meeting topics. (Tuesday, 1 p.m., More Info)
HIGHER ED BOARD: Executive Committee of the Board of Higher Education meets. (Tuesday, 1 p.m. | More Info and Zoom)
AMERICAN REVOLUTION: State Commission on the 250th Anniversary Celebration of the American Revolution meets. Agenda includes remarks from co-chairs and a discussion about the legislation that created the commission. (Tuesday, 1 p.m. | More Info and Livestream)
EA SHELTER: The Special Commission on Emergency Housing Assistance Programs, which lawmakers created in response to the strain on the state's emergency assistance family shelter system amid a flood of new arrivals to Massachusetts, meets. Agenda items deal with the current status of the shelter system, a plan for listening sessions, and a "deep dive" into "system levers," such as a needs-based model. (Tuesday, 1 p.m., Room 157 | More Info and Livestream)
BOSTON LIQUOR LICENSES: A webinar on the Boston liquor license application process is hosted by the Massachusetts Restaurant Association, Massachusetts Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission and the City of Boston Licensing Board. A new law has created 225 new liquor licenses for Boston, with the majority targeted for 13 ZIP codes to boost economic development, particularly for communities of color. (Tuesday, 3:30 p.m. | Register)
FESTA DE VIEIRA: Rep. Vieira (R-Falmouth) holds a "Fall Festa" campaign rally at the Portuguese-American Association of Falmouth. Entertainment, hors d'oeuvres, cash bar. (Tuesday, 5 p.m., The Navigator, 55 Ashumet Rd., East Falmouth)
MUNI, REGIONAL GOV: Joint Committee on Municipalities and Regional Government accepts written testimony through 5 p.m. on local bills dealing with Southborough, Saugus, Holyoke and Conway. Lawmakers are also seeking feedback on a Rep. Meschino bill to remove the town of Hull from the Eastern Regional Commission on the Status of Women. (Tuesday, 5 p.m. | More Info)
MASSDOT REVERE PROJECT: MassDOT holds a virtual public hearing on its proposed design for the State Road Beachmont Connector project in Revere. Officials want to remove one of the two lanes on both the northbound and southbound lanes on State Road to install bike lanes. "The proposed design will improve the sidewalk along both sides of State Road providing a direct, safe and accessible connection for pedestrians and cyclists to the Beachmont MBTA station, Revere Beach and businesses along Ocean Avenue," MassDOT says. (Tuesday, 6 p.m. | Register)
WARREN-DEATON, ROUND 1: U.S. Sen. Warren (D-Cambridge) and Republican challenger John Deaton of Swansea meet for the first of two scheduled debates. The one-hour debate will be hosted by the Boston Globe and WBZ-TV at the WBZ Studios in Boston. WBZ's Jon Keller and Globe political editor Victoria McGrane moderate. The debate will air live on WSBK-TV 38, WBZ Newsradio 1030, and stream live on both wbztv.com and bostonglobe.com. (Tuesday, 8:30 p.m., WBZ Studios, 1170 Soldiers Field Rd., Boston)
ORANGE LINE: Orange Line shuts down between Forest Hills and Back Bay from Tuesday, Oct. 15 through Saturday, Oct. 20. Free shuttle buses will be provided between those stops, as well as for Copley on the Green Line. Riders can also take the commuter rail for free between Forest Hills, Ruggles, Back Bay and South Station. The closure is part of the MBTA's Track Improvement Program, as the agency works to remove speed restrictions and make traffic repairs. (Tuesday)
Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2024
STAT SUMMIT: Two-day STAT Summit kicks off in Boston, featuring experts in the biotech, pharma, and life sciences sectors talking about "everything from drug development and technology invention to dealing with regulators, courting investors, and pricing and selling products." Speakers include Assistant Secretary Micky Tripathi of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Agency for International Development Assistant Administrator of Global Health Atul Gawande. Registration opens at 7:30 a.m. Virtual access is $350; general admission is $1,300. (Wednesday, 8:40 a.m., The State Room, 60 State St., 33rd floor, Boston | Full Agenda)
MUNI POLICE: Standards Subcommittee of the Municipal Police Training Committee meets to review and discuss the October agenda. (Wednesday, 9 a.m., 42 Thomas Patten Drive, Randolph | More Info and Access)
CANNABIS COMMISSION: Cannabis Control Commission meets with an agenda that calls only for an executive session "to discuss strategy with respect to litigation because the open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the litigating position of the public body." (Wednesday, 10 a.m., Agenda and Access Info)
GAMING AGENDA-SETTING: Mass. Gaming Commission meets to select the topics it will discuss in greater detail and act upon at future business meetings. (Wednesday, 10 a.m., Agenda and Access Info)
CORI TRAINING: Department of Criminal Justice Information Services holds a virtual training session about the Criminal Offender Record Information law. Officials will give an overview of CORI laws and regulations, and discuss how agencies can use them in the context of employment, housing, volunteering and licensing. (Wednesday, 11 a.m. | Access)
WELLESLEY BATTERY STORAGE: A ribbon-cutting ceremony is held for the Battery Energy Storage System at the Wellesley Municipal Light site. Sen. Creem speaks, and her office says the system is expected to save $8 million over 20 years. The nearly 5 megawatt battery energy storage system is designed to reduce Wellesley's peak electricity consumption, Creem's office said. The town says the system "has the capacity to charge and store more than 20 megawatt-hours of energy during low-cost periods of low energy demand and discharge that energy during higher-cost periods of peak energy demand...The project also reduces peak demand that would otherwise be supplied from fossil fuel based energy, or gas, which directly aligns with Wellesley's Climate Action Plan goal to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050." (Wednesday, 11 a.m., 4 Municipal Way, Wellesley)
MCAS DEBATE: Representatives from opposing sides of Question 2 to eliminate the use of the MCAS exam as a high school graduation requirement debate on GBH News. Massachusetts Teachers Union Vice President Deb McCarthy, representing the 'yes' campaign, will argue against Keri Rodrigues, founder of the National Parents Union. (Wednesday, 11 a.m. | WGBH-FM 89.7 and GBH News Online)
SEAFOOD DAY: Fishing Partnership Support Services, Massachusetts Fishermen's Partnership and Massachusetts Seafood Collaborative host the annual "Seafood Day at the State House" to showcase the diversity of fish species caught and landed in Massachusetts, the economic benefits of the seafood industry, and the dedication and skill of commercial fishermen. The organizations will honor Rep. Ann-Margaret Ferrante of Gloucester with the 2024 Finest Kind Award for her "dedication and support of Massachusetts' coastal communities and commercial fishermen and their families." Samples of a wide variety of seafood will be served. (Wednesday, 11 a.m., Great Hall)
AFFIRMATIVE ACTION: Education Secretary Tutwiler, Higher Education Commissioner Ortega, Acting Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Johnston, and Sen. Comerford join the Advisory Council for the Advancement of Representation in Education to announce actions the administration will take to "ensure Massachusetts continues to prioritize equity and access to higher education, particularly for historically unrepresented students," in the wake of last year's U.S. Supreme Court decision that limited the ability of higher education institutions to consider an applicant's race in admissions. Event begins with a roundtable with students, followed by a press conference. Media RSVP by 5 p.m. Tuesday to jason.law@mass.gov for livestream link. (Wednesday, 11 a.m., Westfield High School, 177 Montgomery Road, Westfield)
MASSDOT BOARD: MassDOT Board of Directors meets. (Wednesday, 12 p.m., 10 Park Plaza, MassDOT Board Room, Boston | More Info)
ENERGY EFFICIENCY: Equity Working Group Subcommittee of the Energy Efficiency Advisory Council meets virtually. Members will dive into equity targets for the 2025-2027 plan for energy efficiency programs. (Wednesday, 1 p.m. | Agenda and Zoom)
ASK THE GUV: Gov. Healey participates in her semi-regular appearance of "Ask the Governor" on "Boston Public Radio." (Wednesday, 1 p.m., GBH News Studio, Boston Public Library, Copley Square, Boston | WGBH-FM 89.7 and GBH News Online)
LUPA ZOO: Rep. Saunders and Sen. Oliveira present a $25,000 check to the Lupa Game Farm, known as the Lupa Zoo. Lawmakers say the funding from the fiscal 2025 budget will support zoo operations, boost local economic development, provide job opportunities and promote wildlife conservation efforts. (Wednesday, 2:30 p.m., Lupa Zoo, 62 Nash Hill Road, Ludlow)
FINANCIAL EMPOWERMENT: Boston Disability Commission holds a webinar focused on financial empowerment for people with disabilities. Attendees will learn about earning, saving and spending money. (Wednesday, 5:30 p.m. | Register)
O'CONNOR FUNDRAISER: Campaign committee for Sen. O'Connor of Weymouth hosts what it describes as "our only fundraiser of 2024." Donations are "greatly appreciated, but not required to attend the party," which will feature appetizers and a cash bar, according to an invitation. (Wednesday, 6 p.m., Grille 151, 151 Main St., Weymouth)
DEDHAM BRIDGE REPLACEMENT: MBTA hosts a public meeting in Dedham to discuss a project to replace the bridge that carries the commuter rail's Franklin Line over East Street. (Wednesday, 6 p.m., Dedham Middle School Auditorium, 70 Whiting Ave., Dedham | More Info)
MASSGOP BLACK COALITION: MassGOP Black Coalition meets, led by Elizabeth Hinds-Ferrick of the State Committee. Organizers say the coalition "provides a space where Black community values & heritage align with the economic freedom, educational opportunity & community empowerment promoted by the Republican Party." (Wednesday, 6 p.m. | More Info and Zoom)
Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024
BOSTON TEACHERS "WALK IN": Boston Teachers Union members host staff and community walk-ins at several schools to call attention to what the union calls "heated contract negotiations" more than a month after the last contract expired. Participants will demonstrate at the Donald McKay School, the Patrick Lyndon Pilot School, the James F. Condon School, the Rafael Hernandez Dual Language School and more between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. (Thursday, 7 a.m.)
TRANSIT & HOUSING SUMMIT: Metro South Chamber of Commerce holds a summit on transit and housing located near the rail. Secretary of Transportation Monica Tibbits-Nutt is scheduled to speak, as well as Fred Clark, president of Bridgewater State University; Rachel Heller, CEO of Citizens’ Housing and Planning Association (CHAPA); Mike Lambert, administrator for Brockton Area Transit Authority and others. The event will focus on new housing and redevelopment, so-called opportunity zones, and improving infrastructure in the metro south region. (Thursday, 8:30 a.m., Showcase Cinema de Lux Randolph, 73 Mazzeo Drive, Randolph | More Info & Register)
MUNI MANAGEMENT: Massachusetts Municipal Management Association meets. Town managers from Andover, Easton, Foxborough, North Attleborough, Shrewsbury, Westford and Chatham discuss community engagement and MBTA Communities Act initiatives. Adam Chapdelaine, executive director of the Massachusetts Municipal Association, gives an update. (Thursday, 9 a.m., Cyprian Keyes Golf Club, 284 E. Temple St., Boylston | Register)
APP-BASED DRIVERS DISCUSSION: As part of GBH News's series of ballot question initiative debates, Roxanna Rivera with United for Justice will discuss Question 3 to give app-based drivers the right to unionize. There is no officially organized 'no' side on this question, and therefore no debate. (Thursday, 11 a.m. | WGBH-FM 89.7 and GBH News Online)
BUILDING CODE COUNCIL: Department of Fire Services' Building Code Coordinating Council meets remotely. Agenda includes a request from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection for a regulatory review and potential vote on regulations dealing with bans on the "use of certain hydrofluorocarbons in refrigeration, chillers, aerosol propellants, and foam end-uses." (Thursday, 1 p.m. | Agenda and Access)
"COFFEE & CONVERSATION": Mass. Cultural Council hosts a "Coffee & Conversation" event with Executive Director Michael Bobbitt. "Casual, unscripted, no formal speaking program. A drop in hour to ask questions, pitch an idea, and connect with Mass Cultural Council," the group wrote in an advisory. (Thursday, 2 p.m., JMAC, 208 Franklin St., Worcester | More Info)
HYDE PARK, MATTAPAN LIQUOR LICENSES: Boston's Office of Small Business holds a liquor license information session focused on the Hyde Park and Mattapan neighborhoods, part of a series of events planned for this month. Business owners can learn about the application process, as well as resources and support from the city. (Thursday, 2 p.m., Voltage Park Event Center, 1260 River St., Hyde Park | Register)
WORCESTER HIGH SCHOOL: City of Worcester holds ribbon-cutting and dedication ceremony for its new Doherty Memorial High School. Treasurer Goldberg, chair of the Mass. School Building Authority, attends. The MSBA approved a $124.5 million grant in 2020 for Worcester to build a new facility replacing the old high school, which dated to 1966. "Upon completion, this project will provide a new 21st century learning environment for students in Worcester," Goldberg said at the time. (Thursday, 3 p.m., 299 Highland St., Worcester)
GOLDBERG AT BOSTON ARTS ACADEMY: Treasurer Goldberg provides remarks at the Boston Arts Academy Foundation Gala. (Thursday, 5 p.m., MGM Music Hall at Fenway, 2 Lansdowne Street, Boston)
AD CLUB AWARD: Advertising Club of Western Massachusetts and the Trustees of the Order of William Pynchon host their annual public service award ceremony. The 2024 William Pynchon Award recipients include Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gullini, Jeffrey Sattler of Liberty Bank, and Kevin B. Vann of the Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council. (Thursday, 5 p.m., Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, 1000 Hall of Fame Ave., Springfield | Register)
MASSBUDGET PREZ: Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center hosts an event to welcome the organization's new president, Viviana Abreu-Hernández. She joined MassBudget on Aug. 1, after working as vice president of external affairs at Quinsigamond Community College in Worcester. Abreu-Hernández will share her vision for MassBudget, and the program also features special guest Luis A. Miranda Jr., an activist, philanthropist and author. The event starts at 5 p.m., with the speaking program at 6 p.m. (Thursday, 5 p.m., The Substation, 4228 Washington St., Roslindale | Tickets)
PUBLIC SERVICE AWARDS: A ceremony is held for the 2024 Shattuck Public Service Awards, which honor people for their service to Boston and the community. Organizers say award recipients should exemplify the public service values of Henry L. Shattuck, the chair of the Boston Municipal Research Bureau for 17 years. Pamela Everhart of Fidelity and Michael Curry of the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers will be recognized as "city champions." (Thursday, 5:30 p.m., Westin Copley Place, 10 Huntington Ave., Boston | More Info)
SENIOR HOME CARE GALA: Boston Senior Home Care, a nonprofit focused on improving the lives of older adults, hosts a gala to celebrate their 50th anniversary. Attorney General Campbell will receive the Elder Justice Advocacy Award, and Chinese Progressive Association Executive Direction Karen Chen will receive the Community Advocacy Award. The organization will also remember Patricia Lynch, a former board member and lobbyist who advocated on Beacon Hill for mental health and substance use legislation, by posthumously awarding her with the Patricia A. Lynch Excellence in Public Service Award. Reps. Michlewitz, Hogan and Moran and Sen. Edwards will present the awards, as well as Boston City Councilor Gabriela Coletta Zapata. (Thursday, 5:30 p.m., Four Seasons Hotel, 200 Boylston Street, Boston)
FORMER SOLICITOR LECTURE: Former U.S. Solicitor Paul Clement is the keynote lecturer as Pioneer Public Interest Law Center launches its new Brackett B. Denniston III Rule of Law Lecture series. Pioneer said Clement's lecture will "address the evolving jurisprudence that balances access to campus facilities while preserving students' right to peaceful protest." Tickets start at $500. (Thursday, 6 p.m., Royal Sonesta Boston, 40 Edwin H Land Blvd., Cambridge | Register)
WARREN-DEATON, ROUND 2: Two days after their first debate, Democrat U.S. Sen. Warren and Republican challenger John Deaton meet again for another debate in western Massachusetts. The one-hour event hosted by NEPM and GBH News will take place at NEPM's studios in Springfield. NEPM News reporter Adam Frenier and GBH News political reporters Adam Reilly and Saraya Wintersmith will moderate. The debate will broadcast live on NEPM TV, WFCR-FM 88.5, WGBH-TV Ch. 2, WGBH-FM 89.7, WCAI-FM 90.1, Cape and Islands Radio, and online at the GBH News and NEPM YouTube channels. (Thursday, 7 p.m., NEPM, 44 Hampden St., Springfield)
Friday, Oct. 18, 2024
POST COMMISSION: The POST Commission hosts a virtual panel discussion on law enforcement physical fitness training and testing. The panel's six members are Melissa Metzke, director of officer health and performance for the Municipal Police Training Committee; Brianna Britt, deputy director of the civil service unit for the MA Human Resources Division; Joe Dulla, a veteran of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department and current PhD student studying law enforcement; Rob Orr, director of tactical research unit at Bond University; Robert Lockie, associate professor of strength and conditioning at California State University Fullerton and sports and tactical researcher; and Jay Dawes, professor of applied exercise science in the department of kinesiology, health and recreation at Oklahoma State University. (Friday, 9 a.m. | Zoom)
ASSERTIVE COMMUNITY TREATMENT: MassHealth holds a remote public hearing on a new regulation for the Program of Assertive Community Treatment Services. The proposed regulations describe the program as a "comprehensive service model for adult members with serious mental illness who may benefit from intensive coordinated services and have not responded well to program or office-based interventions." The regulations would create a new MassHealth provider type; define MassHealth's fee-for-service program; and establish payable services including treatment planning, vocational services, housing supports, pharmacotherapy and crisis intervention referrals. Written testimony will be accepted through 5 p.m. (Friday, 9 a.m. | More Info and Access)
WHITE CANE AWARENESS: Massachusetts Commission for the Blind and Perkins School for the Blind host the annual White Cane Awareness Day celebration. The event aims to boost awareness of the state's White Cane Law, which requires drivers to yield to pedestrians who are using white canes or dog guides at street crossings. Health and Human Services Secretary Kate Walsh reads a proclamation from the Healey administration. Sen. Robyn Kennedy and Rep. Jay Livingstone, co-chairs of the Joint Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities, give remarks. Attendees can use the accessible entrance at Ashburton Park. The event starts at 10 a.m., with the speaking program at 11 a.m. (Friday, 10 a.m., Great Hall | More Info)
SUBSTANCE USE, ADDICTION SERVICES: Executive Office of Health and Human Services holds a remote public hearing on adjusting rates for "substance-related and addictive disorders programs," which are paid by the Department of Public Health and MassHealth. The services are provided in a "24-hour residential setting for individuals with a moderate-to-severe substance use and mental health disorder," according to the hearing notice. The increased rates are expected to cost the state more than $9.5 million in fiscal 2025. Written testimony will be accepted through 5 p.m. (Friday, 10 a.m. |More Info and Access)
YOUTH STABILIZATION, EMERGENCY PLACEMENT: Executive Office of Health and Human Services holds a remote public hearing on increasing rates for youth short-term stabilization and emergency placement services, which are paid by the Department of Youth Services and the Department of Public Health. The changes deal with "staffing support and youth detoxification and stabilization program rates," according to the hearing notice. The increased rates come with an annualized cost of $620,000. Written testimony will be accepted through 5 p.m. (Friday, 10:30 a.m. | More Info and Access)
LEGISLATIVE AUDIT DEBATE: Opponents will present two differing views of Question 1 on this fall's ballot, which would explicitly grant the state auditor the authority to audit the Legislature in Massachusetts. Mary Connaugton of the Pioneer Institute will argue in favor of expanding the auditor's powers, and Jerold Duquette, professor of political science at Central Connecticut State University, will argue against it. (Friday, 11 a.m. | WGBH-FM 89.7 and GBH News Online)
ADULT FOSTER CARE: Executive Office of Health and Human Services holds a remote public hearing for an emergency amendment for certain adult foster care services. Officials want to increase the existing per diem rate by almost 15 percent, from $43.53 to $50. "This rate increase is proposed to enhance access to group adult foster care (GAFC) services, and in response to provider feedback and fiscal health of the provider network based on the profitability analysis of the reported FY 2022 cost data," the hearing notice says. The proposed change would cost Massachusetts $8.4 million annually. Written testimony will be accepted through 5 p.m. (Friday, 1 p.m. | More Info and Access
CULTURAL FACILITIES GRANT CELEBRATION: Mass. Cultural Council, MassDevelopment and elected officials including Sen. Comerford and Rep. Domb celebrate new Cultural Facilities Fund grant awards and the start of the fiscal 2025 application cycle. (Friday, 1 p.m., Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, 125 West Bay Road, Amherst | More Info)
FALL-O-WEEN CHILDREN'S FESTIVAL: The Fall-o-Ween Children's Festival is hosted by Boston Mayor Michelle Wu and the Boston Parks and Recreation Department. There will be family-friendly activities, including a haunted zombie maze, "jumpin' pumpkin and scarecrow slide," and pumpkin bowling. The festival also features live entertainment and spooky story time. It runs through 8 p.m. (Friday, 5 p.m., Boston Common Frog Pond)
MURATORE FUNDRAISER: A fundraiser is held for Rep. Muratore, who's running for Senate in the Plymouth and Barnstable District again Rep. Fernandes. The reception is hosted by Plymouth County Sheriff Joe McDonald and Plympton Selectman Dana Smith. (Friday, 5 p.m., Budo Karate Academy, 67 Everett St., Middleborough | More Info)
MASS FAMILY INSTITUTE: Massachusetts Family Institute holds its annual fundraising banquet. Seth Gruber, president of The White Rose Resistance and host of the podcast "Unaborted," is the keynote speaker. A VIP reception with Gruber is scheduled for 5:30 p.m., before doors open for the banquet at 6:30 p.m. (Friday, 7 p.m., Boston Marriot Newton, 2345 Commonwealth Ave., Newton | More Info)
Saturday, Oct. 19, 2024
WORCESTER HIGH SCHOOL TOURS: City of Worcester hosts community tours inside the new Doherty Memorial High School, following a dedication ceremony earlier in the week. (Saturday, Oct. 19, 10 a.m., 299 Highland St., Worcester)
OUR DEAF SURVIVORS CENTER GALA: Our Deaf Survivors Center holds its 25th Anniversary Gala. "The evening will be filled with inspiring stories, heartfelt tributes, and the opportunity to connect with others who share our passion for supporting the Deaf community," according to organizers. The keynote speaker is Raven Sutton and Molly Karp, general Counsel at MassAbility (formerly the Mass. Rehab Commission), is among the award recipients. Tickets for individuals are $175, or $125 for those 62 and over. (Saturday, 4 p.m. to 11 p.m., Gillette Stadium, Foxborough)
IN-PERSON EARLY VOTING: In-person early voting begins across Massachusetts. Every city and town will offer a two-week early voting period, including two weekends, through Friday, Nov. 1. Voters can cast ballots in-person at early voting hours if they have not yet returned a mail-in ballot, according to Secretary Galvin's office. (Saturday, Oct. 19 | Local Early Voting Hours)
