Lost, Confused, and Fortunate

Lost, Confused, and Fortunate

April 17th, 2014

When I began my internship at Save the Harbor/Save the Bay I was excited to jump head first into something I had been passionate about for many years. Since I was an environmental student in college, Save the Harbor/Save the Bay was and is a perfect opportunity for me to learn about non-profit organizations, environmental issues, and its protection and restoration methods.

During the first two months I researched national beach closings, coastal water quality and how to protect Massachusetts beaches from climate change. This particular project was interesting since it discussed material which was new and exciting.  After the completion of this project, my boss asked me what I wanted to work on next and about my future goals. That was when reality hit [again] and I realized I had some tough decisions to make and soon. For months I had been trying to dodge the question that needed my attention. I knew avoiding the questions was the worst thing to do, but I continued to do it. I would freeze when family members questioned my plans after graduation and the line of work I wanted to be in. I often feel suffocated; not knowing where to go and how to help myself.  

The one and only clear answer I now have is that I want to work and learn more about the environment and the strategies to protect it and the public. The environmental field encompasses many different areas of study and I am still struggling to focus my attention.  As a recent college graduate with minimal experience I know I am fortunate to have any experience in the environmental or non-profit field which ultimately may help me to determine my goals and interests.  

After 11 months since graduation and not having a clue to what comes next; I often feel I am behind my peers and it feels as though I am running a race trying to catch up to them. Many of my peers found jobs fairly quickly after graduation; which led me to doubt myself, my future, and interests. I have had a tough time realizing that every person is different and we are all capable of different things. More importantly, for the sake of our own sanity, we should never compare ourselves to our peers and friends.

I often think back to the times I have visited abroad and saw young children whose lives have already been planned -where they will work and live. In those moments I realized that I am fortunate to have the impossible task of figuring out my first job and my future. At the age of 22, I have a dozen opportunities that wait for me. I can't imagine my future working one type of job in only one particular field; and hopefully I don't have too.   Even though I want and like the idea of having options; I sit here today feeling anxious and scared.  

At the conclusion of my internship at Save the Harbor I desperately wanted answers or a sense clarity. I may not have an answer right now, but I know it’s important and I will no longer “dodge” the necessary questions and topics. For now, I need to keep learning important skills which will help me strengthen my candidacy as an applicant; I need to keep reading and find career paths that I might be interested in; and I need to go beyond my comfort zone and ask people for advice and build connections. 

I would like to thank the staff and interns at Save the Harbor/Save the Bay for helping and supporting me. I am so happy to have had this opportunity learning about environmental issues along with  meeting people who share the same interests. Finally, a special thanks to Bruce who forced me to think about things when I didn't want too. Interning at Save the Harbor/ Save the Bay has not only been a learning opportunity but it has been a growing experience both personally and professionally. 

On that note, I may still be a little lost and confused; but I am fortunate enough to have a network of friends and colleagues at Save the Harbor to support my struggle until I find my first full-time job and ultimately my career.  



Tanya Bhargava 

Making a Difference

My name is Dennis Poole and I'm an environmental policy intern with Save the Harbor/Save the Bay.  I joined this organization in January and have found my experiences thus far professional, educational and enjoyable.  Within the first three weeks I took part in two hearings with Metropolitan Beaches Commission (MBC) and I'm currently working on a project with two other interns involving water quality with beaches in Boston Harbor.

On February 1, 2014 I was fortunate to take part in a public meeting hosted by the Metropolitan Beaches Commission at the UMass campus in Boston.  It was interesting to hear the concerns of the resident beach patrons and the MBC commissioners plans on how to address their concerns and simultaneously improve the quality of our beaches.  At one point I was able to listen to and share ideas with committee officials from Nantasket Beach in Hull.  Beach Projects ranged from the construction of docks and ferry services in order to facilitate more transit to the islands. The information and goals presented by the MBC and the citizens who attended reflect the qualities I like to see in a community.

I am especially happy to be part of a team where I can apply the critical and analytical skills I learned in college in a way that benefits the greater community.  Researching ways to improve the quality of our environment with peers that share the same goal is personally rewarding and beneficial to the surrounding community.

The team here at Save the Harbor/Save the Bay consistently demonstrate their commitment to the well being of both its staff and the communities in which it serves.  The staff here is very attentive in training and guiding us in a conducive manner that develops our professional abilities with our personal goals.  The atmosphere here is both professional and fun, not only am I getting a chance to learn and experience the many professional aspects of environmental policy but I'm enjoying the journey.

Sincerely,

Dennis Poole,

Environmental Policy Intern with Save the Harbor/Save the Bay

Destination Boston Harbor 2014

On Wednesday evening, April 2nd Save the Harbor/Save the Bay will host our annual corporate fundraiser Destination Boston Harbor, which brings together 350 of our corporate and community partners and political and policy pals.

At our 25th Anniversary in 2011, Save the Harbor began a tradition of honoring Boston Harbor Heroes for their work to transform Boston Harbor from a liability into an asset for our residents and our communities.

This year the Leadership and Board of Directors of Save the Harbor/Save the Bay is proud to honor:

 Here's a preview of the video we will premier at the event,
produced by our youth environmental education program staff

There are still a few tickets available to Destination Boston Harbor, and some unique auction items including the chance to throw out the First Pitch at a Red Sx Game at Fenway Park thanks to our friends at JetBlue Airways.

For more information call us today at 617-451-2860.

 

Harpoon Helped Cupid Splash in 2014!

-->Nearly 200 brave souls from the across the region plunged into the chilly waters of Boston Harbor on Saturday, March 29^th and raised $31, 565 dollars from more than 300 contributors to support free beach programs at the Harpoon Helps Cupid Splash at the BCYF Curley Community Center at M Street Beach in South Boston. Several dozen participants also splashed at Revere Beach, and raised $4,235 dollars for America’s oldest beach.

Funds raised at the Harpoon Helps Cupid Splash will be awarded to beach friends and community groups in the region’s waterfront neighborhoods and beachfront communities to support free beach events in Lynn, Nahant, Revere, Winthrop, East Boston, South Boston, Dorchester, Quincy and Hull this summer.

“Harpoon is always happy to help Save the Harbor and our community,” said Charlie Storey, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Harpoon Brewery. “A quick dip followed by burgers and chowder and of course a refreshing Harpoon Beer on the beach. Its a great way to spend the first nice Saturday of spring!”

“What a terrific turnout” said Ronda Ivy McLeod, Manager Regional Marketing, Northeast at JetBlue Airways, on hand to support a team from JetBlue that raised $2,654 at this year’s splash. “We are always happy to partner with Save the Harbor/Save the Bay for this event. Core to our mission is inspiring humanity, and whether it’s in the air or on the ground, we’re committed to bettering the lives of our customers, crewmembers and communities – and inspiring others to do the same.”

“It was a great way to have some fun on one of the cleanest urban beaches in America and raise money to support free events on the region’s public beaches from Nahant to Nantasket this summer” said Bruce Berman, spokesman for Save the Harbor/ Save the Bay who helped organize the event. “Thanks to all of the participants and donors, and thanks to event sponsors Harpoon Brewery, JetBlue Airways, Russo Marine, Mix 104.1, the Boston Center for Youth And Families, NationalGrid, P&G Gillette, Comcast Massachusetts, Tasty Burger, Legal Sea Foods, the YMCA of Greater Boston and DCR for their support.”

Kennedy Elsey of Mix 104.1 and Donny Todd of Jet Blue choose the winners for best costumes. This year’s winners were Garrett Bergey, who splashed for Dorchester’s Beaches dressed as Donatello the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle, and Julia Vose, who splashed for South Boston’s beaches as a stunning jellyfish. They each received a round trip JetBlue Airways ticket as well.

The top three eligible fundraisers, who each won a round trip ticket on JetBlue Airways, were John Coyne, who splashed for South Boston, Carol Haney, who splashed for Revere, and Bridget Ryan, who splashed for Quincy.

 

The top ten fundraisers, who each won a Harpoon Hoodie were Bruce Berman, Joe Newman, John Coyne, Carol Haney, Mark Chrisos, Donnie Todd, Bridget Ryan, Robert Tucker, Mary Clare McGraw, and

Kelly Thompson.

South Boston and Revere topped the list for funds raised by beach again this year, followed by Lynn & Nahant and East Boston.

South Boston      $ 7,099

Revere               $ 4,235

Lynn and Nahant   $ 3,911

Constitution       $ 3,660

Dorchester          $ 2,050

Winthrop           $ 1,556

Wollaston          $ 1,204

Nantasket           $ 840

You can see a slideshow of this year’s Splash at https://tinyurl.com/2014splashslideshow, 

You can find a complete list of all prize winners on Save the Harbor’s blog “Sea, Sand & Sky” at www.blog.savetheharbor.org, or on their Facebook page at  www.facebook.com/savetheharbor

Open arms - Welcome back.

That's me, Leon McKoy

at the start of an awesome summer in 2012

 As I approach the wharf, I start to become filled with a warm nostalgic feeling. The dominant sounds of the gulls swarming the harbor and the intense but welcoming smell of today's catch, I knew I was home.
I was welcomed back to the Save the Harbor/Save the Bay family with open arms. Its been 2 years since my last blog post and man what a 2 years it has been. I've learned a lot and there has been ups and downs but I've remained focused and working towards better. With my previous experiences through Save the Harbor I've come to realize that hard work does indeed pay off (with a little added help from Facebook).
I recently have been employed, but not a single one of those companies felt right for me. I've grown to realize a save the harbor smile is one that can not be replicated. Gazing out the office window and seeing a water taxi pick up it passengers and head off to there destinations is obviously not comparable to slaving over a hot grill flipping burgers. I can happily and easily say, being back with Save the Harbor/Save the Bay family is a honor on its own. Working here as a Junior Program Assistant was one of the greatest experiences in my life and I'm ecstatic to have the opportunity to further my experiences along with learning more about myself. I've regained a feeling  I thought I lost along the way and I'm back in action. I'm Leon McKoy and I'm now an intern.

That's me, Leon McKoy with 2 lobsters at Mcdonough sailing center

See you on Boston  Harbor!

Good News for the Metropolitan Region's Public Beaches!

The “Environmental Bond Bill”, House No. 3332, contains some very good news for the metropolitan region’s public beaches.

The bill, which was favorably reported out of the Joint Committee on Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture today, contains $20 million to improve water quality and $40 million for capital projects on the metropolitan region’s public beaches from Nahant to Nantasket. These funds will support investments which will protect the environment and improve the quality of life for residents of the region's coastal communities.

Save the Harbor would like to thank the Metropolitan Beaches Commission and our many friends and allies in the Massachusetts Legislature for their commitment to continued public investment to restore and protect Boston Harbor and these remarkable coastal resources.

We also want to take a moment to thank our many friends and supporters in the region’s waterfront neighborhoods and beachfront communities for their steadfast support.

We recognize that it is early in the process, but we are encouraged by the support that these items have received.

Here are the relevant sections of the bill.

HOUSE  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  No. 3332

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts

_______________

In the Year Two Thousand Thirteen

_______________

An Act providing for the preservation and improvement of land, parks,
and clean energy in the Commonwealth

2000-7064 For the development and support of local efforts to improve water quality on the metropolitan region’s public beaches owned by the commonwealth under the care, custody and control of the department of conservation and recreation, including, but not limited to, convening the public to enhance awareness of and participation in planning, regulatory, and permitting decisions; site specific research and analysis; feasibility and other assessments; plans for water, sewer, storm water, and other infrastructure investments; site specific plans, including, construction documents and architectural blueprints, the development of municipal storm water management plans, the design, construction, restoration, enhancement, reconstruction, rehabilitation or replacement of storm water and sewage system infrastructure; and for outreach, communications, education, and planning to improve water quality in communities that include, but are not limited to, Lynn, Nahant, Revere, Winthrop, East Boston, South Boston, Dorchester, Quincy and Hull   ................$20,000,000

2000-7065. For the design, construction, restoration, enhancement, reconstruction, rehabilitation, replacement or removal of infrastructure on the metropolitan region’s public beaches owned by the commonwealth and under the care, custody and control of the department of conservation and recreation, including, but not limited to buildings, roads, trails and paths; provided, that costs payable from this item may include, but not be limited to, the costs of engineering, restoration, construction and other technical assistance services essential to these projects rendered by the department of conservation and recreation, maintenance employees or by consultants. Projects shall include, but are not limited to, those recommended by the Metropolitan Beaches Commission    ……$40,000,0000

Just One Question from Save the Harbor/Save the Bay

Here is a copy of the letter we recently sent to candidates running for constitutional office in Massachusetts, inviting them to the Harpoon Helps Cupid Splash:

Save the Harbor / Save the Bay’s 5000 members and supporters want to know: “How important are Boston Harbor, the marine environment and the region’s public beaches from Nahant to Nantasket to you as a candidate for public office in 2014?”

There are lots of ways to answer that question.  Rather than ask you to fill out a questionnaire or take part in a debate or forum, this March we would like to invite you and your campaign to demonstrate your commitment to clean water and the environment in an exciting new way.

We would like to invite you, your staff, volunteers and supporters to join us on March 29 at the BCYF Curley Community Center at M Street Beach in South Boston for the Harpoon Helps Cupid Splash.

This annual plunge into the cool (actually cold!) clear water on one of the cleanest urban beaches in America will give you and your supporters a chance to show the residents of the region’s beachfront communities and waterfront neighborhoods that you care about the marine environment in a fun and dramatic way.

All the funds we raise at the event go to support free beach and youth programs on the region’s public beaches from Nahant to Nantasket.  Last year nearly 500 people raised more than $30,000 to support sand sculpting competitions, concerts and beach festivals in Lynn, Nahant, Revere, Winthrop, East Boston, South Boston, Dorchester, Quincy and Hull. You can find out more about our free beach and youth programs on our website at www.savetheharbor.org

It is easy to register or set up a team at www.cupidsplash.com

Registered participants are eligible to win great prizes including free tickets from JetBlue Airways. There will be a party on the beach after the splash, with hot coffee and chowder, delicious Tasty Burgers and refreshing Harpoon Beer. Each participant is also welcome to bring a sign with them to the event, which we will display on the beach.

If you share our commitment to clean water, join us on March 29 and meet hundreds of others who share the same passion for better beaches, the marine environment and our coastal communities.

All the best,

Bruce Berman, Director

Strategy Communications and Programs

Save the Harbor / Save the Bay

______________________________________________________________________

We hope the candidates will take this opportunity to celebrate clean water and support public programming on Greater Boston’s urban beaches.  The Harpoon Helps Cupid Splash is a great opportunity to support a great cause while having a lot of fun-- but we don't necessarily expect any of the candidates to win the costume contest.

Show Your Love for Boston Harbor: Join the Harpoon Helps Cupid Splash!

Calling all beach-lovers:
Looking for a way to show your love for Boston Harbor this Valentines Day?

Register for the 2014 Harpoon Helps Cupid Splash, which takes place on Saturday, March 29th at the BCYF Curley Community Center at M Street Beach in South Boston.

This year’s cold-weather plunge and pledge fundraiser marks the fourth annual Harpoon Helps Cupid Splash to benefit Save the Harbor/Save the Bay's Better Beaches Program and we are hoping to make it a record-breaking event this year.

Once again, Harpoon Brewery will be providing refreshing beer on the beach after the big splash, and Tasty Burger will be serving up delicious burgers.  Registration is open and fundraising has begun—so get signed up now to support your local beach and start working your way towards some great prizes!
“We’re really lucky to have great beaches, and great partners like Harpoon Brewery and JetBlue Airways, who share our commitment to our community and our love for these beaches” said Bruce Berman, Save the Harbor’s Director of Strategy, Communications, and Programs.

This year there are four ways to win a round trip ticket on JetBlue Airways!  The top three overall fundraisers automatically win tickets, the best costume winners (male and female) each win tickets, everyone who makes a contribution (registration fee or pledge) is entered into a raffle to win a round-trip ticket, and everyone who raises $1000 or more wins a Harpoon Hoodie and is entered into a raffle to win a round-trip ticket.  Participants who reach fundraising goals of $100, $250, $500, or more will be eligible for additional raffle prizes.  Check out the Cupid Splash website for more details!

"We are excited to support our friends at Save the Harbor/Save the Bay.  We have been brewing on Boston’s waterfront for more than 25 years, and we believe in their mission,” said Charlie Storey, Senior VP of the Harpoon Brewery, whose philanthropic program, Harpoon Helps, is co-producing this year's Splash in South Boston. "The Cupid Splash is a great way to spend one of the first Saturdays of Spring; a quick dip into the icy water to get the blood flowing, followed by a cold Harpoon with your friends - all to support a great cause!"

Last year about 200 splashers raised over $30,000 to support free events and programs on the public beaches from Nahant to Nantasket.  This year we are hoping to make an even bigger splash to provide the funds for increased public programming on our beaches, organized by friends groups and other great local organizations.

To register online for the Cupid Splash, visit www.cupidsplash.com.  Registration is easy and provides each participant with an individualized page to set a fundraising goal and track progress, as well as a link to send to friends and family to encourage them to donate.   

This year there is even an option to register as a “chicken” and raise money without the actually plunging into the harbor!  Funds raised go to support free events and programs on the public beaches in Lynn, Nahant, Revere, Winthrop, East Boston, South Boston, Dorchester, Quincy, and Hull.

For more details about the 2014 Cupid Splash, visit www.cupidsplash.com or email Susan Woods at woods@savetheharbor.org.

Its not too late!

Save the Harbor/Save the Bay's Bruce Berman speaking with the South Boston beach representatives

Last Saturday, the Metropolitan Beaches Commission held a public meeting to share our preliminary findings and recommendations for the harbor beaches from Nahant to Nantasket. The meeting was made possible through the dedicated public involvement of the beachfront community members and leaders, who attended the 10 public hearings that were held in each of the waterfront communities in the summer and fall of 2013 and those who participated in the MBC survey. At these hearings and in the survey we were able to hear each community’s hopes, dreams, and concerns for the future of our beaches. Save the Harbor/Save the Bay and the Metropolitan Beaches Commission used what we learned from the public hearings and survey to create a plan that will help us move our beaches from good towards great. However, before the Commission issues the plan later this year we organized this meeting so that we could circle back with the community to make sure we got it right.

The meeting began with a PowerPoint presentation given by Save the Harbor/Save the Bay director of strategy, communications, and programming Bruce Berman and board member David Spillane. The presentation began by explaining where we have come from since 2007: the success we’ve had and the problems that still need to be addressed. Bruce and David addressed a number of topics ranging from DCR maintenance and beach amenities to the controversial dog and plover issues. Bruce and David concluded the presentation by addressing each beach’s unique successes, challenges, needs, and opportunities.
After the presentation, everyone who attended the meeting separated into breakout groups by according to their beach. In these groups participants were given the opportunity for their voice to be heard via the sticky note system .On the sticky notes, participants wrote their desires and concerns for the future of their beach.  This was a chance for every single person who attended the meeting to have influence on the MBC final report. At the meeting, you could really see how these communities truly value their beaches, and that they share our mission to protect and restore them. It was a rewarding experience for us at Save the Harbor/Save the Bay to create the opportunity for waterfront neighborhoods and beachfront communities to influence the policies that will be set forth by the Metropolitan Beaches Commission final report.

If you still want to express your desires for the future of your beach, it’s not too late! You can voice your thoughts in the MBC online survey at http://tinyurl.com/MBC2013SURVEY