Governor Healey Opposes Parole for Jose Colon, Killer of Trooper George L. Hanna

Governor Healey Opposes Parole for Jose Colon, Killer of Trooper George L. Hanna 

 

BOSTON – Governor Maura Healey has submitted a formal letter to the Massachusetts Parole Board urging the denial of parole for Jose Colon, who is serving a life sentence for his role in the murder of Massachusetts State Trooper George L. Hanna. Because of a recent change to Massachusetts law, Colon is now eligible for parole and will receive a hearing on Thursday. In her letter to the Parole Board, Governor Healey expressed her unequivocal opposition to Colon’s release, citing the profound and lasting harm the offense inflicted on Trooper Hanna’s family, the law enforcement community, and Massachusetts as a whole.  

Each year, Massachusetts hosts an awards ceremony named for Trooper Hanna to publicly recognize the bravery of members of the law enforcement community who put their lives on the line by dedicating themselves to safety throughout Massachusetts. 

“Trooper Hanna's family has continued to honor his legacy in a deeply tangible way. His daughters, Deborah and Kimberly, still present the awards in his name, keeping their father's memory central to the Commonwealth's recognition of courage and dedication in law enforcement. For the past 10 years, I have personally sat with Deborah and Kimberly at the Hanna Award ceremony and have witnessed the pain they continue to endure because of their father's brutal murder," wrote Governor Healey. “Massachusetts rightly holds Trooper Hanna's name as a symbol of honor and valor. Releasing the individual who fired the shots that killed Trooper Hanna would diminish the meaning of the very legacy we continue to uphold and would send a dangerous signal that deliberate killing of a police officer is anything less than the most heinous of crimes.” 

In her letter to the Parole Board, Governor Healey emphasized the gravity of the crime, the magnitude of its harm, and the enduring public significance of Trooper Hanna’s legacy. She urged the Board to carefully consider the full and lasting impact of the offense on the victim’s family, the law enforcement community and public trust. 

The Governor’s full letter to the Massachusetts Parole Board can be read here. 

PEABODY SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEMBER JOE AMICO ENDORSES DAN KOH

 PEABODY SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEMBER JOE AMICO ENDORSES DAN KOH

“We need a leader who will fight to create a Sixth District that our children 

will be proud to live in,” says Amico.

Andover, MA – Today, Peabody School Committee Member Joe Amico announced his endorsement of Dan Koh in the Massachusetts 6th Congressional District primary.

"As a School Committee Member, I see firsthand how rising costs impact Peabody families. We need a leader who will fight to create a Sixth District that our children will be proud to live in. I'm proud to endorse Dan Koh – an Andover dad who's committed to fighting for both students and educators throughout our region,” Amico said.

A dad of two young kids, the fight for accessible, quality education and childcare is personal for Dan. He admires the diligence of school committees across the Sixth District as they provide teachers, students, and families the resources they need to succeed.

“I am incredibly grateful for this endorsement from School Committee Member Amico,” Koh said. “I proudly support public educators, who play an integral role in making our communities stronger. If elected, I will work alongside local officials like School Committee Member Amico to deliver real results for families.”

Koh’s campaign has gained critical momentum thanks to the support of over a dozen local community leaders, over ten union locals, and Vice President Kamala Harris, while raising a record-breaking $2M+ in its first fundraising quarter, a record for an MA House campaign.

CITY OF BOSTON ANNOUNCES OVER $300,000 IN SWIM SAFE GRANTS TO EXPAND FREE SWIM LESSONS FOR YOUTH

CITY OF BOSTON ANNOUNCES OVER $300,000 IN SWIM SAFE GRANTS TO EXPAND FREE SWIM LESSONS FOR YOUTH

BOSTON - Tuesday, January 13, 2026 - The City of Boston’s Office of Human Services and Boston Centers for Youth & Families today announced the award of Swim Safe grants totaling $314,118 to 15 Boston-based nonprofit organizations to expand access to free beginner swim lessons for young people across the city. The grants bolster Boston’s ongoing efforts to enhance water safety and equitable access to aquatics programming. “This investment of City funds ensures that every young person has access to free swim lessons, building on our ongoing commitment to water safety,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “I’m grateful to the Office of Human Services and BCYF for awarding these grants, which will allow us to expand access to aquatic programming for thousands of Boston youth. I encourage all Boston families to take advantage of this critical resource and enroll in programming.” Grant awards range from $2,200 to $100,000 and are drawn from the City of Boston FY26 Operating Budget. They will support a range of organizations to provide free swim lessons throughout the school year, including large aquatics providers as well as school-based programs serving Boston Public Schools students. Through this grant, Boston expects to see over 2,500 youth complete beginner swim lessons. These free lessons are offered in addition to the thousands of free lessons provided by the staff at Boston Centers for Youth & Families aquatics sites.  Grantees include the following organizations: YMCA of Greater Boston (9 locations) Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston (4 locations) Boys & Girls Club of Dorchester (Dorchester) Salvation Army Kroc Center (Dorchester) West End House (Allston-Brighton) Tierney Learning Center (South Boston) Friends of the Hernandez School (Roxbury) Bridge Boston Charter School (Roxbury) Modest Women Swim, Too! (Roxbury) Omega Men in Action (Roxbury) Ohrenberger School (West Roxbury) Blackstone Elementary School (South End) Hurley School (South End)  Swim Freedom (Roxbury) Edusports (Mattapan) “Our Swim Safe grants continue to strengthen Boston’s commitment to ensuring every child has access to this essential life skill,” said José F. Massó, Chief of Human Services. “Thanks to this year’s grantees, we’re not only reaching thousands of young people but also expanding the network of providers who can help keep our young people safe around the water.” “This year’s grant awards represent a major investment in water safety and equitable access,” said Marta E. Rivera, Commissioner of Boston Centers for Youth & Families. “In collaboration with our aquatics partners, BCYF is ensuring that every Boston family has free and inclusive access to swimming and helping to break down barriers and provide high-quality programming that serves the incredible diversity of our city.”  In addition to long-standing Swim Safe partners that operate pools and provide youth swim lessons, including the YMCA of Greater Boston, Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston, Boys & Girls Club of Dorchester, and the West End House, this year’s cohort introduces several new grantees proposing to add swim lessons into existing school-based and after-school programs. These new providers will help deliver swim instruction to elementary-age students in Boston Public Schools, as well as youth enrolled in after-school enrichment programs, significantly broadening the reach of the Swim Safe initiative. New school partners include the Ohrenberger School in West Roxbury and the Blackstone Elementary School in the South End. “We are thrilled to be able to offer swim lessons to our families that otherwise would not have the chance to take swim lessons without the Swim Safe grant,” said Courtney Sheppeck, Principal of the Blackstone K-6 Elementary School. “We feel swimming should be taught to all students across the city. The Swim Safe grant will give more students the opportunity to learn this essential life skill." New this year, budgeted costs have been capped at $200 or less per child, ensuring that the maximum amount of funding goes directly to swim instruction rather than administrative costs. This grant cycle will also serve as a pilot period to assess this cost-efficiency strategy.  “The Salvation Army Boston Kroc Center is proud to provide safe, accessible swim opportunities that empower young people to build confidence, develop lifesaving skills, and enjoy the water responsibly. Through the Swim Safe initiative, we’ve been able to expand our reach and create a supportive environment where children and families feel welcomed, protected, and encouraged,” said Stephanie Lorfils, Program Director of Salvation Army Boston Kroc Center. “This partnership allows us to strengthen our commitment to water safety and ensure that every child in our community has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive in and around the pool.” By the conclusion of this grant cycle, the city expects more than 2,500 young people to have received free swim lessons during the school year. There will be an expanded pool of swim providers participating in Swim Safe, increasing the number of accessible, community-based swim lessons available to Boston residents.

伍振中、伍偉業連任2026主席 麻州參議員Nick Collins送憲法致賀

伍氏元老伍伯和（右二）、伍煥華（左二）監交印信，伍振中（右一），
伍偉業（左一）連任主席。（周菊子攝）

                   （Boston Orange周菊子波士頓報導）波士頓伍胥山公所1月11日在波士頓華埠泰勒街會址，舉行新舊職員交接典禮。伍振中、伍偉業在麻州參眾議員Nick Collins和黃子安，以及波士頓經文處，僑教中心派員出席的隆重中，連任主席。

麻州參議員Nick Collins送出John Adams寫的麻州憲法給伍氏。（周菊子攝）

                  伍氏今年的這場新屆職員就職典禮，最特別的是麻州參議員Nick Collin不但首次出席，還送上一本由約翰亞當斯(John Adams)起草，迄今仍然有效，並在現實中使用的“麻州憲法”。他強調這是全美迄今存在時間最長，是為全美模範的活憲法，也是麻州與全世界和全美其他各州不同的地方。在慶祝麻州250週年之際，他要把這本管理人們彼此對待，管理政府如何對待人民的“憲法”，送給伍氏，以表祝賀。

麻州眾議員黃子安（左二）送表揚狀給伍偉業（左起），伍振中，伍輝民。（周菊子攝）

                  這天由伍仁甫擔任司儀的祭祖，就職儀式，仍然十分傳統，奏樂，上香，向伍子胥太祖神像行三鞠躬禮，敬酒，奉寶帛、獻金豬，婦女部獻鮮花，果品，點燃電子炮後，請元老伍伯和，伍煥華監交，新屆主席伍振中，伍偉業接收印信後禮成。

                  在致詞環節中，伍振中，伍偉業說得都很簡潔，祝福宗親們馬到成功，身體健康，新年快樂。

                  紐英崙中華公所主席雷國輝，麻州眾議員黃子安，麻州參議員Nick Collins，波士頓經文處組長黃耀良，波士頓僑教中心主任高家富等嘉賓，以及代表黃氏宗親會的黃氏中文書記黃納斯接著紛紛致詞，向伍氏宗親送上祝福。

波士頓僑教中心主任高家富（右一），波士頓經文處黃耀良組長（左一）
代表僑委會委員長徐佳青，送上賀狀給連任伍氏主席的伍振中（右二），
伍偉業（左二）。（周菊子攝）

                  黃子安還特地從州議會帶了多份表揚狀，送給伍氏公所，以及升任全美伍氏顧問的伍輝民。

                  黃耀良表示，他代表波士頓經文處處長廖朝宏，祝福伍氏族務興旺，造福更多僑胞。他指出，華人在海外，能夠發揚團結鄉親的精神，十分難得。黃伍一家親這樣的互相幫助傳統，更是罕見

                  高家富以廣東話代表僑委會委員長徐佳青恭賀2名主席就任，送上會務興隆，身體健康，新年快樂等祝福。

                  

伍氏和黃氏男性宗親合影。（周菊子攝）

伍氏元老伍伯和這天也特地站出來，指著牆上掛著的歷屆主席，感謝他們多年來奉獻時間、精力，為公所服務。

                  伍氏元老伍煥華在典禮結束時特地說明，今年伍氏就職這天，剛好費城黃氏復會，黃氏的元老，主席等人礙於時間衝突，無法兼顧，以致未能出席。

伍氏婦女部主任伍詹淑慧（前右四）和伍、黃氏女宗親合影。（周菊子攝）

                  波士頓伍胥山公所的2026-2027職員為，主席伍振中，伍偉業，中文書記伍鍾美貞，伍筷榮，西文書記伍少武，伍達慈，財政伍艷梨，伍仁甫，核數伍玉娟，伍華輝，伍海政，外交伍秀珠，伍琪峰夫人，康樂伍國光，樓業主任伍慧儀，樓業委員伍偉業，伍輝民，婦女部主任伍詹淑慧，伍少雄，出席中華公所代表伍偉業。

伍振中主席致詞。（周菊子攝）

伍偉業主席致詞。（周菊子攝）

麻州參議員Nico Collins（左二）送上表揚狀。（周菊子攝）

麻州眾議員黃子安（右）送上賀狀，恭喜伍輝民升任全美伍氏顧問。（周菊子攝）

伍氏元老伍伯和表示要感謝歷屆主席的貢獻。（周菊子攝）

伍氏元老伍煥華（又）和主席伍偉業（左）歡迎紐英崙中華公所主席雷國輝。
（周菊子攝）

伍氏新屆職員就職前祭祖。（周菊子攝）

由於黃伍一家親的傳統，黃氏婦女部主任黃周麗桃在伍氏就職典禮中獻果品。
（周菊子攝）

伍氏婦女部主任伍詹淑慧和伍少雄獻花。（周菊子攝）

伍氏元老伍煥華等人一起上香。（周菊子攝）

聯邦政府查封2個從中國走私槍枝網站

          （Boston Orange編譯）麻州聯邦檢察官辦公室今（13）日宣佈，查封兩個涉嫌從中國非法進口全自動射擊轉換裝置（MCDs）及消音器的網站域名，兩個加密貨幣帳戶。這次行動共查獲3,093 件轉換裝置、282 枝槍械、124 個消音器以及超過 12,000 發子彈。

根據法庭文件，涉案網站從 2023 年起將俗稱「開關」或「阻鐵」的 MCDs 偽裝成普通商品，透過中國的航空貨運走私入境，並利用加密貨幣規避監管。這些裝置能將半自動手槍改裝為全自動機槍，違反聯邦「國家槍枝法案(NFA)」。聯邦當局未公佈兩個網域的具體名稱，但已證實非法使用 Glock公司商標，銷售該公司從未生產的仿冒轉換器。

麻州聯邦檢察官 Leah B. Foley 表示，全美迄今已查封大約 360 個相關域名。一起執行此案調查的還有國土安全調查署（HSI）新英格蘭區主管暨特別探員 Michael J. Krol ，以及緝毒局（DEA）特別探員 Jarod A. Forget；沒收令由助理檢察官 Annapurna Balakrishna 與 Luke A. Goldworm 取得。

麻州是全美槍枝法規最嚴苛的地區之一。根據最新數據，麻州目前約有 626 名 聯邦槍枝執照（FFL）持有者，其中含約 334 家 零售店面。截至 2024 年初，麻州公共安全與保障執行辦公室（EOPSS）的統計，全州共有542,351 名 居民持有有效的持槍執照（LTC 或 FID）。

自從美國於1994 年實施對華槍枝進口禁令以來，中國製火器與彈藥進入美國市場的合法門路已被切斷，走私槍枝零件成為獲取管道。麻州槍枝擁有者行動聯盟（GOAL）指出，麻州對自動武器管制極嚴，除要求槍枝必須鎖定儲存外，非法持有此類改造裝置將面臨嚴重聯邦與州級刑責。

FORMER PEABODY CITY COUNCILOR TOM GOULD ENDORSES DAN KOH

 FORMER PEABODY CITY COUNCILOR TOM GOULD ENDORSES DAN KOH 

 

“His visionary campaign prioritizes what matters most to families, like putting food on the table and creating an inclusive Sixth District that works for all,” says Gould.

 

Andover, MA – Today, former seven-term Peabody City Councilor Tom Gould announced his endorsement of Dan Koh in the Massachusetts 6th Congressional District primary.

 

“During my time as a City Councilor, I tried my best to connect with every Peabody resident — letting their hopes, needs, and ideas inform everything I did. I’m proud to endorse a leader who is going to be a crucial part of the next Democratic House majority: Dan Koh. His visionary campaign prioritizes what matters most to families, like putting food on the table and creating an inclusive Sixth District that works for all,” says Gould.

 

As a former Andover Select Board Member, Dan knows the hard work and grit necessary to deliver real results for a community. He respects Gould’s unwavering commitment to the residents of Peabody and his passion for public service. 

 

“I am incredibly honored by this endorsement from Councilor Gould,” Koh said. “He has dedicated his life to giving back to the Peabody community. Cities and towns all across the Sixth District deserve dedicated leaders like Councilor Gould who will fiercely advocate for their needs. I’m excited to work with local leaders and prove I can be that fighter for our region.” 

 

Koh’s campaign has gained critical momentum thanks to the support of over a dozen local community leaders, over ten union locals, and Vice President Kamala Harris, while raising a record-breaking $2M+ in its first fundraising quarter, a record for an MA House campaign.

麻州長Healey指派Eric Goralnick出掌退伍軍人服務

Governor Healey Appoints Dr. Eric Goralnick as Secretary of Veterans Services 

BOSTON — Governor Maura Healey today announced the appointment of Eric Goralnick, MD, MS, as Secretary of the Massachusetts Executive Office of Veterans Services (EOVS). 

Dr. Goralnick brings over two decades of experience as an emergency physician, United States Navy Veteran, health system leader and nationally recognized expert in health care operations, military-civilian health care partnerships and care for service members, veterans and underserved communities. He assumes leadership of the agency at a moment of strong momentum, building on recent progress to expand services, and ensure veterans across Massachusetts can access high-quality, timely, and compassionate care under Governor Healey. 

“We have made a strong commitment to fixing a broken system and delivering for our veterans,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Dr. Goralnick understands that veterans deserve care that meets them where they are. He brings deep experience as a physician, a leader and a collaborator, and he has spent his career strengthening systems, improving access to care and bringing people together across institutions. He is the right person to build on this progress and continue delivering for veterans and their families across Massachusetts.” 

“Veterans and their families deserve a system that works consistently and delivers results,” said Lieutenant Governor Driscoll. “Dr. Goralnick brings a strong track record of leadership and problem-solving, and he steps into this role at a time when Massachusetts is focused on sustaining progress and expanding support for veterans statewide.” 

“I am honored to serve Massachusetts veterans and their families,” said Dr. Eric Goralnick. “As a Navy veteran myself, I understand both the challenges of transition and the incredible value veterans bring to our communities. This role represents an opportunity to ensure every veteran in the Commonwealth receives the support, resources, and recognition they've earned through their service” 

As Secretary, Dr. Goralnick will oversee access to and provision of state veterans’ benefits, ensure the continued delivery of high-quality care at the Massachusetts Veterans’ Homes, advance behavioral health and suicide prevention initiatives, support veterans transitioning from military to civilian life, and strengthen collaboration across state agencies, health care systems and community partners. 

An emergency medicine physician and US Navy veteran, Dr. Goralnick has built his career bridging military and civilian healthcare at Mass General Brigham and as an Associate Professor at Harvard Medical School. He has served in various leadership roles at the departmental, hospital, and system levels within Brigham and Women's Hospital and Mass General Brigham. As a researcher and mentor, he has authored over 100 publications focused on improving emergency medical care, healthcare system resilience, safety and quality. His work has created pathways for veterans transitioning to careers in civilian healthcare and strengthened partnerships between the Military Health System and academic medical centers.  He is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy and has completed advanced training in emergency medicine, public health and healthcare management.   

Dr. Goralnick will succeed former Secretary Jon Santiago, who led the creation and early transformation of EOVS following the COVID 19 crisis at the Soldiers’ Homes and helped guide the agency through its foundational rebuilding phase. 

Dr. Goralnick will assume his role in February. Dr. Andrea Gayle-Bennett will continue to serve as Interim Secretary. 

Statements of Support 

Anne Klibanski, MD, President and CEO of Mass General Brigham: 

“Dr. Goralnick has played a critical role in strengthening how we care for patients at Mass General Brigham with complex medical and behavioral health needs, ensuring they receive timely, coordinated, and compassionate care. His leadership and clinical perspective will be instrumental in supporting veterans and their families across Massachusetts, helping advance important services, resources, and care.” 

Admiral Tim Szymanski, USN (Ret.), Former Deputy Commander, United States Special Operations Command, Board Director, Invisible Wounds Foundation: 

I have known Eric Goralnick for over 25 years, and his dedication to veterans and military families has been unwavering. From his service as a Surface Warfare Officer to his leadership at Harvard Medical School and Mass General Brigham, Eric has consistently bridged military and civilian healthcare systems to improve care for our nation's military, veterans and families. He will continue to serve veterans with compassion, competence and commitment.” 

Tommy Lyons, Chair, Board of Trustees, Massachusetts Veterans Home at Chelsea: 

“It’s important that our veterans have a strong advocate in leadership who is committed to improving access to health care, benefits, and services they’ve earned through their service. I believe Eric Goralnick will be that leader.”  

Retired Brigadier General Jack Hammond, Executive Director, Home Base: 

“Dr. Eric Goralnick brings exactly the kind of leadership Veterans need in this moment. As a Naval Academy Graduate, Veteran, and a nationally respected leader in emergency medicine, he understands both the realities of military service and the urgency of delivering high-quality, accessible care to veterans and their families. Dr. Goralnick established the Military Veterans Initiative at the MGB and provided critical support to Home Base as a Senior Advisor. Through our work at Home Base, we see every day how critical strong partnerships between health systems, government, and veteran organizations are to supporting service members and their families, and Dr. Goralnick has built his career around strengthening those connections. Massachusetts is fortunate to have someone of his experience and commitment stepping into this role.” 

Ryan Callahan, EVP of Digital Innovation, Blue Star Families: 

“I've known Eric Goralnick for several years since we were classmates in the George W. Bush Institute's Veterans Leadership Program, where we built a national network of veteran service organization leaders. Eric's ability to unite diverse stakeholders around a common mission, combined with his naval service and medical leadership, makes him uniquely qualified to lead Massachusetts' veteran community. The collaborative skills he demonstrated building bridges across the veteran service ecosystem will serve the Commonwealth's veterans exceptionally well.” 

麻州長 Healey公佈改革措施 加強輔助生活住宅安全

(Boston Orange編譯) 麻州州長奚莉（Maura Healey）在“輔助生活住宅（ALR）“委員會提交最終報告後，今（12）日公佈一套全面改革方案，訂定6大原則，要在全麻州針對“輔助生活住宅（ALR）“，加強安全。透明及消費者保護措施。

2025年7月13日 ，秋河加布里埃爾屋（ Fall River Gabriel House ）發生火災，造成 10 人死亡，包括5名消防員在內，有30餘人受傷的結果。奚莉州長因此在2024年制定法案，改善長照機構的品質與監管，要嚴格審核全麻州約273家私營輔助生活住宅的營運，以期在麻州老齡人口漸增之際，優先確保居民的健康與安全。

ALR委員會和麻州老靈與獨立事務局（AGE）召開過16次會議，以及許多場公聽會後，制定的規則包括：加強消防安全及緊急準備的標準，公開數據透明化，標準化院民資訊披露，員工及護理領導的條件要求，清楚的評估做法，可負擔性小組委員會等。

麻州參議員Patricia Jehlen，Michael J. Rodrigues，眾議員Thomas Stanley和秋河市市長Paul Coogan等人都強調，這些措施都以確保長者安全，能在自己的社區中有尊嚴的老去為最終目標。

 Governor Healey Announces Immediate Safety Reforms Following Release of the Assisted Living Residence Commission’s Final Report  

BOSTON – Governor Maura Healey today announced a comprehensive set of reforms to strengthen safety, transparency and consumer protections in assisted living residences (ALRs) across Massachusetts. This action follows the submission of the ALR Commission’s final report to the Legislature, which outlines both regulatory and legislative solutions to improve the safety and well-being of residents.   

The ALR Commission was established through the 2024 Act to Improve Quality and Oversight of Long-Term Care and undertook an extensive review of the ALR sector to ensure it continues to meet the needs of an aging population while prioritizing resident health and safety. The Commission was expected to file its final report on August 1, 2025. Following the tragic fire at Gabriel House in Fall River, Governor Healey signed into law an extension passed by the Legislature so that the Commission had additional time to incorporate lessons learned from the fire. The Commission voted unanimously by those in attendance to approve its final report on January 12, 2026.   

The Commission’s recommendations aim to ensure ALRs continue to meet the evolving needs of older adults while significantly strengthening transparency and oversight, emergency preparedness, staffing, and consumer protections. The Commission met 16 times, held two public hearings, and incorporated direct feedback from residents, families, industry experts, and first responders. Key recommendations include: 

• Stronger Fire Safety & Emergency Preparedness Standards – enhance inspections and coordination with local fire departments to prevent future tragedies. 
• Transparent Public Data – create a new statewide online database to provide families with clear access to compliance records, ownership information, and corrective action plans. 

• Standardize Disclosures – standardize information on services, costs, staffing, and resident rights for easier comparison across ALRs. 
• Staffing & Nursing Leadership Requirements – ensure every ALR has access to licensed nursing support and leadership training that matches resident needs. 
• Clear Assessment Practices – ensure consistent evaluations of resident needs with clear notice of any cost or care changes. 
• Affordability Task Force – create a task force to evaluate new models that expand access for low- and middle-income older adults. 
   

The Healey-Driscoll Administration is taking immediate action to begin the implementation of a majority of the regulatory and administrative recommendations in this report. 

“Every older adult deserves a safe home and peace of mind, and every family deserves transparency and accountability,” said Governor Maura Healey. “The heartbreaking tragedy at Gabriel House showed us that we cannot wait to strengthen protections for assisted living residents. We are taking immediate action on these recommendations so we can better protect residents, support families and ensure our assisted living system continues to serve people well into the future.” 

“Massachusetts has a responsibility to protect residents in every single assisted living community, and families are counting on us to get this right,” said Aging & Independence Secretary and ALR Commission Chair Robin Lipson. “These changes will strengthen fire safety, clarify standards and practices that impact resident well-being, and make critical information more accessible so families can make informed decisions. We have already begun putting stronger protections in place and will work to ensure that residents across the Commonwealth are safer, better supported, and treated with the dignity they deserve.” 

The Commission recommends legislative action to further strengthen resident safety and consumer protections, including establishing a dedicated funding mechanism to expand state oversight and public reporting, amending state law to authorize certified medication aides in assisted living settings, and creating a statewide registry for ALR executive directors. The report also urges the review of ALR building classifications and the modernization of building code requirements. Finally, the Commission recommends forming an ALR Affordability Task Force to look into sustainable models that expand access for low- and middle-income older adults. 

“These recommendations are very important. The Gabriel House fire in Fall River increased the urgency of action,” said Senator Patricia Jehlen, member of the ALR Commission. “AGE can implement most of the recommendations about transparency and emergency preparedness without legislation. But it’s important to give them the budgetary resources to enforce the rules. The legislature needs to act on the recommended statutory changes, including establishing a dedicated and sustainable funding mechanism, supported by certification and recertification fees and fines." 

 

"ALRs are an important pillar of the Commonwealth's continuum of care for our aging population, helping older adults age in place and maintain their independence. The health, safety and well-being of these residents is paramount. This principle guided the Commission's deliberations over the past year, especially following the devasting fire at Gabriel House in Fall River,” said Representative Thomas Stanley, member of the ALR Commission. “I am proud of the comprehensive recommendations the Commission produced in this final report and look forward to the work ahead, including establishing the proposed ALR Affordability Task Force. I’d like to thank my fellow commission members for their service on behalf of our older adults in ALRs and their caregivers, and salute Secretary Lipson and her team at AGE for their incredible leadership and engagement throughout this process." 

“While there are quality residences across Massachusetts, inadequate regulations have allowed bad actors to persist for far too long,” said Senator Mark Montigny, lead legislative sponsor of the ALR Commission.  “As the devastating Gabriel House fire showed, vulnerable lives are at stake and we need to continue to demand more action from legislators, regulators, and residence owners. I appreciate the hard work of this commission over the past year to come to a set of actionable recommendations that can be implemented immediately and in the near future to help protect residents and improve the overall assisted living model in the Commonwealth.” 

 

“I would like to thank the commission for their thoughtful review of existing policies and procedures and for the recommendations outlined in this report that will provide for important enhanced safety measures for all residents of assisted living centers throughout the state in the aftermath of the tragic Gabriel House fire,” said Fall River Mayor Paul Coogan.  

 

"I am gratified to see the ALR Commission release its report detailing a number of comprehensive reforms that will strengthen safety and increase transparency for ALRs all across the Commonwealth. The extensive reviews following the tragic fire at the Gabriel House will ensure that our seniors will not only have the latest in health and safety protocols in place, but that ALR staff will be equipped with the highest training and certifications standards in the industry. The new statewide online database will also provide families with clear access to important compliance records, ownership information, and mandate that their facility has a proven corrective action plan in place,” said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues, Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “All older adults deserve a safe dwelling and their families the utmost in transparency and accountability for the aging parents.” 

 

“The ALR Commission Report and recommendations delivers achievable goals. Legislative action is needed to ensure uniformity and compliance,” said Representative Alan Silvia (D-Fall River). 

 

“After our community experienced the tragic and deadly fire at Gabriel House last year, we have been evaluating necessary remedies and changes to prevent catastrophes like this,” said Representative Carole Fiola (D-Fall River). “Thanks to the work of this Commission, we are seeing important changes to help improve safety, affordability, and care. Thank you to Secretary Lipson and my colleague Chair Stanley for their tireless dedication to this issue.” 

 

“I thank the ALR Commission for the work and report, it brings attention to needed improvements. I applaud the state’s commitment to promptly addressing the issues and listening to concerns brought forward,” said Representative Steven J. Ouellette (D-Westport). “I strongly support efforts to avoid serious incidents, particularly those that help our seniors and those ability hindered.” 

The Commission’s report contains a comprehensive set of reforms that will significantly improve resident safety and ensure families have the information they need to make informed decisions.

FORMER U.S. CONGRESSMAN JOHN TIERNEY (MA-06) ENDORSES DAN KOH

 FORMER U.S. CONGRESSMAN JOHN TIERNEY (MA-06) ENDORSES DAN KOH

Andover, MA – Today, former U.S. Congressman John Tierney (MA-06) announced his endorsement of Dan Koh in the Massachusetts 6th Congressional District primary. 

 

“I’m honored to have spent over a dozen years representing the people of the Sixth District as your Congressman in Washington, D.C. and am equally honored today to endorse the candidate this year who I believe has the personal values, professional experience, and work ethic that the people of this district so richly deserve. As Congressman, I quickly learned that an effective representative needs to balance the needs of the individual constituent, the interests of each and every city and town, the priorities of our entire Commonwealth, and the goals and aspirations of our entire nation,” said Tierney.

 

“Of the candidates running this year, no one is better prepared to do all those things on Day One than Dan Koh. From his time on the Andover Select Board, to his time in Boston City Hall, and, to his years working in the White House, Dan brings to the campaign both his prior experiences and his determination to deliver for families across the district. I'm excited to endorse his candidacy, and I'm excited that over the coming months, individual voters will get the chance to meet him personally as he makes his case to you for why he is by far the best person to represent the Sixth Congressional District in our nation's capital.”

 

As a dad raising his two children in Andover, Dan’s fight for Massachusetts families is personal. He expressed his deep respect for Congressman Tierney and his distinguished career advocating for communities across the Sixth District. 

 

“I’m incredibly honored by this endorsement from Congressman Tierney. He represented the Sixth for nearly two decades, leaving behind a legacy of strong, visionary leadership, known for his strong presence in the district and unwavering commitment to his constituents. His support energizes our movement to keep fighting for a better future,” Koh said.

 

Koh’s campaign has gained critical momentum thanks to the support of over a dozen local community leaders, over ten union locals, and Vice President Kamala Harris, while raising a record-breaking $2M+ in its first fundraising quarter, a record for an MA House campaign

江明信代表紅十字會為 2交易所敲鐘 把“台灣”帶到數億人面前

江明信代表美國紅十字會在納斯達克敲鐘。（江明信提供）

             (Boston Orange周菊子綜合報導)同一年內能為紐約證交所（NYSE）和納斯達克（Nasdaq）的開市、收盤先後敲鐘的人，全美屈指可數，“哈囉台灣（Hello Taiwan）”執行長暨美國紅十字會（American Red Cross）慈善理事江明信（Ming Chiang）在2025年12月30日這天，締造記錄，成為華裔第一人。

江明信按下敲鐘按鈕。（江明信提供）

            江明信是以美國紅十字會慈善董事的身份，代表美國紅十字會，先於2025年1月2日在紐約證交所敲鐘開市，再於2025年12月30日和“哈囉台灣“共同創辦人之一的李孟璇（Diana Lee）在納斯達克（Nasdaq）敲響收盤鐘。

江明信和“哈囉台灣“共同創辦人之一的李孟璇（Diana Lee）敲鐘。（江明信提供）

敲鐘儀式通常都有很多人一起上台，共享歡樂時光。（江明信提供）

            對紐約證交所或納斯達克來說，敲開市鐘和收盤鐘都是日常例行儀式。以納斯達克來說，從2000年在時代廣場設立全球行銷中心和媒體總部後，就每天2場，迄今共舉辦了13,000場左右的敲鐘儀式。但是這敲鐘儀式對企業而言，卻意義非凡，通常只有在企業首次公開募股（IPO），舉辦上市週年慶，才有機會登上紐約時代廣場的納斯達克塔樓，舉行敲鐘儀式，並在同步轉播中，出現在全球數億觀眾面前。

            過去這20多年來，由於華人創辦的科技及互聯網公司不但如雨後春筍般冒出，還紛紛上是，敲鐘，迄今登上過納斯達克塔樓敲鐘的華人企業家，包括2005年上市的百度執行長李彥宏，2014年為京東掛牌的劉強東，2018年從上海遠程連線敲鐘的拼多多創辦人黃崢，以及2018年率嗶哩嗶哩（Bilibili）登台的陳睿等人。

敲鐘鏡頭在時代廣場大螢幕上播放。（江明信提供）

            2025年4月「霸王別姬（Chagee）」的創辦人張俊杰也敲了納斯達克的開市鐘，成為中國新一代“茶飲”出海代表。

            在紐約證交所和納斯達克的敲鐘儀式，每年合計僅約1000場，有著為“品牌”背書份量，主要保留給企業上市用，也為例如迄今已有14人的每年農曆春節邀請中國駐紐約總領事敲鐘等，留有一些外交，文化，慈善事業場次。等閒人上不了敲鐘塔台。

            江明信卻以“哈囉台灣（Hello Taiwan）”執行長，以及美國紅十字會（American Red Cross）慈善理事的身份，在2025年的同一年內，先後於初及年末，為紐約證交所和納斯達克敲鐘，讓他不但在華人參與美國主流社會金融儀式的紀錄中，留下獨特一筆，更因為他頂著“哈囉台灣（Hello Taiwan）”執行長的身份，打著一條印有「台灣」字樣的領帶上台敲鐘，讓“台灣”出現在時代廣場，以及全球各地的敲鐘儀式播報大螢幕上，讓他為“台灣”打了一場漂亮公關戰，恢弘落實了“讓台灣被世界看見”這口號。

            作為資歷超過10年的美國紅十字會志工，江明信在敲鐘時表示，無論世界將來面對什麼挑戰，只要社會各界攜手合作，未來就一定更好。