波士頓公共圖書館基金會新增2名董事

Boston Public Library Fund Announces New Members of the Board of Directors  Two new members will enhance the Fund’s efforts to raise private resources for the Boston Public Library. 

BOSTON, July 14, 2026  — The Boston Public Library Fund (BPLF) today announced that two new board members joined the nonprofit’s work to support the Boston Public Library (BPL), ensuring that it remains a strong and vital resource for the residents of the City of Boston and the Commonwealth.

The new board members began their terms this summer:   

• Marta Garcia is a Principal in the Intellectual Property Litigation Group at Choate, Hall & Stewart LLP and represents leading technology and life sciences companies in complex patent and intellectual property disputes. Marta is a longtime resident of Boston and is raising her young family here. As the first lawyer in her family, she cares deeply about education, mentorship, and public institutions.

• Preston F. “Skip” Kodak is Senior Vice President, Global Commercial Operations for the LEGO Group. Skip played a key role in establishing a transformative partnership between the LEGO Group and the Boston Public Library, which the company announced at the opening of its new US headquarters in May 2025. The two-year initiative will bring play-based learning opportunities to children and families across Boston. Skip is passionate and committed to advancing the needs of underserved children and families at risk. 

“We’re excited to expand our Board of Directors with two new members who are passionate about the BPL’s ability to empower individuals and families,” said BPLF Executive Director Paula Sakey. “They bring tremendous experience, and we’re delighted to have their expertise and insight.” 

Private support of the BPL plays an essential role in providing bold and innovative programs that address the broad needs of Boston’s communities. “On behalf of the Board, I want to express a warm welcome to our new members,” said BPLF Board Chair Jeff Hawkins. “Their work will help the Library accelerate its ability to create new ways to drive social and economic equity.” 

To learn more about the BPLF Board of Directors and read member bios, click here.   

Concerned Jewish Faculty & Staff Rejects Censorship of Student Art by the Public Schools of Brookline to “Protect” the Israeli Flag

Concerned Jewish Faculty & Staff Rejects Censorship of Student Art by the Public Schools of Brookline to “Protect” the Israeli Flag 

BROOKLINE, Mass.– Should we stop teaching students to respect different viewpoints if some parents are offended by them? That’s the message the Brookline public school district is sending with its new art show censorship policy. In the process, it offers a disturbing picture of how authoritarian policies travel around the world and are imposed in local communities.

After an exhibition on May 20 at the Florida Ruffin Ridley Elementary School, the right-wing social media account StopAntisemitism.org posted a snapshot of one student’s artwork to its 350,000 followers. It included several national flags, including those of Israel, Ukraine, Lebanon, Iran, Palestine, and the United States. One of two Israeli flags in the artwork had a wooden craft stick inserted through the middle. StopAntisemitism called the piece “a vile display,” neglecting to share the student’s accompanying note, which spoke of the need to raise awareness about “the horrible things going on” in the world.

StopAntisemitism.org was set up in 2018, and has targeted hundreds of individuals for expressing political opinions about Israel. Among them was the children’s entertainer Ms. Rachel after she voiced sympathy with young people in Gaza. It has been funded by the family foundation of Israeli-American real estate tycoon Adam Milstein, a top Republican donor who also gave thousands of dollars to the far-right group Accuracy in Media, which doxxes pro-Palestinian college students. StopAntisemitism’s focus on protecting the Israeli flag reflects draconian laws that were enacted in Israel over the past decade to control political expression, as well as the authoritarian views of President Trump and his supporters. 

Following the art show at Ridley, some Jewish and Israeli families told the school principal that they felt their “identity, heritage and community” were “targeted” by the student project. Hours later, the principal announced that the piece had been removed from the show, and that a formal investigation was being launched by the district’s civil rights coordinator under its antisemitism policy. An update by the principal reported that the investigation found no evidence of discrimination, but because the artwork was “reasonably perceived by Jewish and Israeli community members as invoking antisemitic tropes, and caused significant distress,” the district would create “a systemic review process to evaluate student work before public exhibition.”

But was the perception of antisemitism “reasonable”? This was disputed by many of Ridley School’s Jewish families. “Antisemitism is real,” two parents observed, “and we live with it. But when our ethnic and religious identity are conscripted into a foreign nationalism, real antisemitism becomes harder to see and harder to fight.” The school’s actions had normalized “the very kind of ethnic generalization that antisemitism traffics in.” The parents received no substantive reply from the principal.

At the request of several Brookline residents, Concerned Jewish Faculty & Staff contacted the district superintendent. Administrators, they wrote, were propagating “a false and dangerous stereotype that labels all Jewish people as ethnonationalists more devoted to Israeli imagery than to free speech. It unnecessarily invites legally suspect viewpoint discrimination. It avoids and indeed hobbles the kind of restorative discussion that is so badly needed. Such a policy will not lead to good pedagogical or political outcomes in Brookline.” 

Jewish parents and community members continued to write school administrators, defending the artwork and questioning the district’s shortsighted response. Who gets to decide, they asked, whether student expression is causing “pain” to members of one group or another, and that official intervention is necessary? They, too, were ignored.

Faced with the school district’s blanket refusal to engage, people aired their concerns in the local press. “The public schools should not be censoring their students and taking away their legal rights,” one Brookline resident protested. “Artwork provides opportunities to have open discussions, instead of ‘taking action.’” Another wrote: “Allowing political pressure to dictate student art boundaries fails to foster critical thinking. We must protect students’ rights to question symbols and power structures without censorship.”  “School and district leaders engaged in a common conflation,” observed another. “It should be acceptable to criticize Israel, as it is any country. Judaism is a religion and culture. Criticism of Israel is not inherently antisemitic. Indeed, I am among the many Jews who believe that Israel is engaged in genocide against Palestinians. Israel’s behavior must be called out, and art is an excellent means to do so.”

CJFS rejects the creeping authoritarianism reflected by the new Brookline school district censorship policy. Pressure by right-wing influence campaigns and their wealthy donors protects nobody from antisemitism. Instead it harms our schools and communities, ignores the political diversity of the Jewish community and falsely associates us with the restriction of civil liberties. We call on the district to reverse its policy.

Governor Healey Launches Build for Mass, a First-of-Its-Kind Municipal Infrastructure Loan Program

 Governor Healey Launches Build for Mass, a First-of-Its-Kind Municipal Infrastructure Loan Program 

 New $75 million revolving loan fund will lower costs, accelerate local infrastructure projects and help communities maximize federal funding  

BOSTON – The Healey-Driscoll Administration today announced the launch of Build for Mass, a new $75 million revolving loan fund that will help cities and towns finance critical infrastructure, clean energy, climate resilience, and economic development projects. Administered by MassDevelopment, the state’s economic development finance agency, Build for Mass is the first municipal infrastructure loan program of its kind in Massachusetts, providing flexible, low-interest financing that helps communities move projects forward faster while maximizing available federal funding opportunities. 

Lieutenant Governor Driscoll announced the initiative at the Massachusetts Municipal Association’s meeting of the Local Government Advisory Commission, an independent group that advocates for the interests of local governments in their relations with state and federal governments.  

"Cities and towns know what projects their communities need, but too often they face financial barriers that slow those projects down," said Governor Maura Healey. "Build for Mass gives communities another tool to repair aging infrastructure, lower energy costs, strengthen local economies and bring more federal dollars home to Massachusetts. We're making state investments go further while helping communities move important projects from the drawing board to construction without raising taxes or fees.” 

"As a former mayor, I know how difficult it can be to move important infrastructure projects forward when financing isn't readily available," said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. "Build for Mass gives local leaders the flexibility they need to bridge funding gaps, keep projects on track and deliver results for their residents. It's another example of our administration working alongside cities and towns to solve real challenges." 

"Build for Mass gives communities a flexible new financing tool to move critical projects forward faster, from downtown revitalization to clean energy investments," said Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley. "By helping cities and towns bridge funding gaps and leverage federal resources, this program will strengthen local economies, create opportunities for businesses, and make Massachusetts more competitive for years to come." 

 "Build for Mass is the latest example of our Administration's commitment to using every available tool to deliver real benefits for Massachusetts communities," said Administration and Finance Secretary Matthew J. Gorzkowicz. "Nearly two years ago, Governor Healey established a state matching fund using interest from our strong Stabilization Fund--providing a flexible new method of unlocking additional investments in our cities and towns. Using these resources to seed Build for Mass is a strategic, sustainable way to make Massachusetts more resilient and more competitive." 

“Massachusetts communities are on track to receive federal funding to build clean energy, expand transportation, and fix our aging water infrastructure, but they need financing to support their projects in the meantime,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “That’s where Build for Mass comes in. Revolving loan funds are key to getting projects off the ground while keeping costs down. We’re excited to be a part of this innovative new fund and we’re looking forward to supporting the municipal leaders on the ground who need support realizing their ideas.”  

“Build for Mass is going to help us further drive down energy bills for our cities and towns – that means less tax dollars going towards high energy bills, and more funding flowing back into communities,” said Commissioner of Energy Resources Elizabeth Mahony. “By leveraging the revolving loan model, we’re going to get more geothermal and storage projects powering municipal buildings. Build for Mass will bring energy affordability, efficient buildings, and reduced power demand to our communities with these funds.” 

“When the Governor established the Federal Funds and Infrastructure Office, we promised to implement a strategy that would help communities build projects they care about while maximizing federal investment in Massachusetts,” said Director of Federal Funds and Infrastructure Quentin Palfrey. “In 2024, we made matching funds available to communities, launched new technical assistance programs for local governments, and now we’re making Build for Mass available statewide. Each of these initiatives have been a direct response to the needs voiced to us by local leaders across Massachusetts. At a time of increasing federal uncertainty, we are committed to advancing priority projects and Build for Mass will be key to this effort.” 

Prioritizing Gateway Cities and rural communities, Build for Mass will offer two low-interest revolving loan products: 

• The General Loan Program Provides low-interest loans that help municipalities bridge financing gaps for federally funded infrastructure projects, including neighborhood revitalization, seawalls, and other community improvements. 
• The Green Loan Program provides bridge financing for municipal clean energy projects that qualify for the federal Direct Pay program, enabling cities and towns to receive tax credit reimbursements for eligible projects. Qualifying projects include battery energy storage and ground-source heat pump systems that lower energy costs and improve energy efficiency. Build for Mass will operate as a revolving loan fund administered by MassDevelopment, which will oversee loan underwriting, servicing and compliance. As loans are repaid, the funds will be reinvested into future projects, creating a sustainable financing tool expected to support in multiple rounds of municipal infrastructure investments over the next 20 years. Applications are expected to open later in 2026.

"Build for Mass is a smarter way to use state dollars to get stuff done,” said Climate Chief Melissa Hoffer. “This fund will help more cities and towns build critical infrastructure as well as provide a tax credit bridge loan to help communities and businesses take advantage of federal dollars to build energy saving battery storage and geothermal projects—locking in deep energy cost savings for decades to come while reducing harmful pollution.  It’s a win-win for pocketbooks and planet.” 

"As the state’s development finance agency and land bank, MassDevelopment has the tools and expertise to assist communities, businesses, and nonprofits as they advance economic development across the state,” said MassDevelopment President and CEO Navjeet Bal. “We are thrilled to deploy Build for Mass, which will help cities and towns access and leverage federal funding for critical clean energy and municipal infrastructure projects.” 

Build for Mass is funded through $50 million from the Commonwealth Federal Match and Debt Reduction Fund, established through legislation proposed by Governor Healey to help Massachusetts compete for federal funding.  The program also includes an additional $25 million from the Department of Energy Resources, in partnership with the Executive Office of Environmental Affairs, to support clean energy projects and lower long-term energy costs.  

Statements of Support 

Adam Chapdelaine, Executive Director and CEO, Massachusetts Municipal Association:  

“Cities and towns are excited about the forthcoming Municipal Lending Program at MassDevelopment. This program is an excellent example of the Commonwealth’s leaders working in partnership to deliver innovative programming that will offer support for communities to secure the financing needed to address critical infrastructure projects. We applaud the Legislature and the teams at FFIO and MassDevelopment for launching this initiative, and look forward to the many projects this financing option will support.”  

Quincy Mayor Thomas Koch: 

"Coastal communities like Quincy are planning today for long-term climate-related impacts on our infrastructure. That means making significant investments in critical resilience projects that will better protect our residents, businesses, and public assets from increasingly severe weather. Securing affordable financing for these projects remains a major challenge, which is why Build for Mass offers such a promising new pathway to access the capital we need. I'm grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for investing in this innovative program and providing communities with new tools to tackle pressing problems." 

Gardner Mayor Mike Nicholson: 

"For cities and towns like Gardner, lack of access to flexible financing is often a barrier to moving our most important projects forward. We're thrilled that Build for Mass will provide a new avenue for funding those projects, which may otherwise take longer to complete at a higher cost. Programs like this help capacity-constrained communities like mine make meaningful progress on the projects most important to our residents. Thank you to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for their continued leadership and innovation in bringing new resources to communities." 

Northampton Mayor Gina-Louise Sciarra: 

"Northampton is committed to building infrastructure that not only meets the needs of our residents today, but also supports a cleaner, more sustainable future. Build for Mass will provide communities with an important new opportunity to finance these projects at a lower cost, helping us advance our clean energy and infrastructure goals. We sincerely appreciate the Healey-Driscoll Administration's leadership in creating this new tool for communities across the Commonwealth.” 

吳弭市長宣佈FIFA世界盃看球派對 7/14~19 在波士頓市府廣場還有4場

    （Boston Orange編譯）波士頓市長吳弭（Michelle Wu）13日宣佈波士頓市最後一輪免費、適合全家同樂的 FIFA 世界盃™戶外直播派對還有4場，將從14日到19日在波士頓市府廣場舉行。

    吳弭市長說，「這個夏天，波士頓展現出一個美麗、熱情、適合闔家同樂且包容所有人的城市形象，成為了美國最佳的外交大使」。波士頓市感謝道富集團（State Street）攜手合作，把最後幾場世界盃直播派對帶到市政廳廣場，延續這份慶祝熱潮，能充分發會波士頓作為主辦城市的效應，讓居民、在地企業，以及所有遊客有更豐富的享受。

    波士頓市府表示，這系列直播派對是吳弭市長致力把免費、以社區為基礎的世界盃活動推廣至波士頓各個社區的努力之一。

    直播派對詳細時間表

7月14日（星期二）

FIFA 世界盃™ 準決賽 - 法國 vs. 西班牙

地點：市政廳廣場（City Hall Plaza） | 美東時間下午 3:00

7月15日（星期三）

FIFA 世界盃™ 準決賽 - 阿根廷 vs. 英格蘭

地點：市政廳廣場（City Hall Plaza） | 美東時間下午 3:00

7月18日（星期六）

FIFA 世界盃™ 季軍賽

地點：市政廳廣場（City Hall Plaza） | 美東時間下午 5:00

7月19日（星期日）

FIFA 世界盃™ 冠軍賽

地點：市政廳廣場（City Hall Plaza） | 美東時間下午 3:00

    截至目前，波士頓市已在各個社區舉辦了 11 場社區直播派對，讓球迷們齊聚一堂觀賞比賽並慶祝這項國際盛事。早前，市府與 Big Night Entertainment Group 及 The Bowery Presents 合作，已舉辦過多場直播派對，為居民、家庭和遊客提供更多享受比賽與世界盃激情的機會。市府過往直播派對的照片可在此處瀏覽https://www.flickr.com/photos/bosmayorsoffice/。

    查詢最新資訊、市府直播派對的更多細節，以及波士頓各地免費直播派對的完整清單，請上市政府官網：www.boston.gov/watchparties。

    波士頓市府鼓勵居民與遊客在賽事期間以實際行動支持在地商家。歡迎透過市府的《社區商業指南》（Neighborhood Business Guide）尋找有播放賽事的在地店家，上網 boston.gov/summer 找更多夏季精彩活動。

MAYOR MICHELLE WU ANNOUNCES FINAL FIFA WORLD CUP™ WATCH PARTIES AT CITY HALL PLAZA

BOSTON - Monday, July 13, 2026 - Mayor Michelle Wu today announced details for the City of Boston’s final slate of free, family-friendly FIFA World Cup™ watch parties, including the Semi Final matches, the Third Place Match, and the FIFA World Cup™ Final. These watch parties will bring residents, families and visitors together at City Hall to experience the final matches of the tournament and to celebrate Boston’s summer as a host city.

“This summer, Boston has become America’s best ambassador as a beautiful, welcoming, family-friendly city that is a home for everyone,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “As we enter the final stages of the FIFA World Cup, we are thrilled to collaborate with partners to keep the celebrations going and make the most of this opportunity for our residents, businesses, and all the visitors still enjoying summer in Boston. Thank you to State Street for helping us bring these final World Cup watch parties to City Hall Plaza, and for such strong leadership helping Boston shine throughout this summer."

The watch parties are part of Mayor Wu’s efforts to host free, community based World Cup programming to communities across Boston. The City’s watch parties are made possible in part by State Street.

Tuesday, July 14

FIFA World Cup™ Semi Final - France vs. Spain

City Hall Plaza | 3:00 p.m. ET 

Wednesday, July 15

FIFA World Cup™ Semi Final - Argentina vs. England

City Hall Plaza  | 3:00 p.m. ET

Saturday, July 18

FIFA World Cup™ Third Place Match 

City Hall Plaza | 5:00 p.m. ET

Sunday, July 19 

FIFA World Cup™ Final Match

City Hall Plaza | 3:00 p.m. ET

To date, the City of Boston has hosted 11 community watch parties across neighborhoods, bringing fans together to watch matches and celebrate the tournament. Previously, the City partnered with Big Night Entertainment Group and The Bowery Presents on earlier watch parties to provide more opportunities for residents, families and visitors to enjoy matches and share in the excitement of the World Cup™. Photos from the City’s watch parties are available here.

For the latest information and additional details on the City’s watch parties, and a list of free watch parties taking place across Boston, visit: www.boston.gov/watchparties.

Residents and visitors are also encouraged to support local businesses during the tournament. Find local businesses showing matches on the City’s Neighborhood Business Guide and additional summer programming at boston.gov/summer. 

BTBA第14屆年會請 Stephen Cho、Arlene Sharpe分享業界學界生技人職涯發展經驗

波士頓台灣人生物技術協會會長廖怡恩（右）和楊志祥（左）和即將於
9月調返台灣的科技組組長蔡孟勳。（周菊子攝）

         （Boston Orange周菊子麻州報導）波士頓台灣人生物技術協會（BTBA) 在7月11、12兩日，假哈佛大學舉辦第14屆年會，探討業界，學界的個人職涯發展，以及生醫領域的各種課題，吸引來自各州近300人出席。

波士頓經文處處長廖朝宏（第一排左四），科技組長蔡孟勳（左三），
波士頓僑教中心主任康雅雄都是BTBA年會嘉賓。（讀者提供）

駐波士頓台北經濟文化辦事處處長廖朝宏，科技組組長蔡孟勳，以及新到任的波士頓僑教中心主任康雅雄都專程出席與盛，讚許BTBA本屆會長廖怡恩和楊志祥領導有方，率數十志工匯聚本地生醫人才交流經驗。

        2日會議的主講人，分別為百濟神州（BeOne Medicine）全球產品組合與專案管理資深副總裁Stephen Cho和哈佛醫學院免疫學系主任Arlene Sharpe。

        韓裔的Stephen Cho談「從實驗到企業組合策略：我的組合管理領導成長之路（From Experiments to Enterprise Portfolio Strategy: My Journey to Portfolio Management Leadership）」。

波士頓台灣人生物技術協會(BTBA）第14屆會長廖怡恩（左）和楊志祥（右）。
（周菊子攝）

        他描述了自己從科學家成為管理者，從學術界轉進企業界的個人職涯轉變過程，指出在進入一家新公司，或轉任新職位時，在第一個100天內應深入思考，自己想要達成什麼目標，核心專注點應該放在哪兒，如何為自己尋找「導師（Mentor）」或職場贊助人（Sponsor），建立人脈網路。

波士頓台灣人生物技術協會(BTBA）第14屆會長廖怡恩（左）和楊志祥（右），
感謝百濟神州全球產品組合與專案管理資深副總裁Stephen Cho出席主講。（周菊子攝）

        Arlene Sharpe談「T細胞共刺激：從發現到癌症免疫治療－我的科學研究歷程（T cell costimulation: From discovery to Cancer Immunotherapy, my Scientific Journey）」。

她透露自己會踏上科研這條路，竟是源於小學二年級做利馬豆（Lima Bean）實驗，得到校長寫信嘉獎，期許她將來得到科學研究藍絲帶（第一名）。

BTBA會長廖怡恩（左一）、楊志祥（右）和主持人廖庭尉（右二）
送感謝禮給哈佛醫學院免疫學系主任Arlene Sharpe。（周菊子攝）

讀大學時，她一度猶豫不決，該選科學還是人類學，但是大二夏天進Jack Strominger實驗室工作，體驗到“發現的喜悅”，從此就一頭栽進科研，又幸運遇到Bernard Fields，學會如何做一名嚴謹、獨立的科學家。

20年前，她和她的大學同學Rafi Ahmed 以及 Gordon Freeman 合作，發表了在「自然（Nature）」上被引用次數最多，首次證實PD-1是Ｔ細胞功能障礙核心因素的論文。

趨勢論壇：Spatial Omics and AI in Translational Medicine。（周菊子攝）

Arlene Sharpe表示，檢查點阻斷療法的成功，真正引領了癌症治療的範式轉移（Paradigm shift），生醫產業與學界的未來，絕對在於聯合療法（combination therapy），綜合考慮腫瘤的各種內在特徵，利用空間體學和AI方法來分析。目前的挑戰包括如何處理缺乏預先存在免疫反應的腫瘤。

趨勢論壇From Code to Clinic: Using AI to Improve Patient Outcomes。（讀者提供）

2場趨勢論壇，分別談「轉化醫學中的空間組學與人工智慧（Spatial Omics and AI in Translational Medicine）」和「從程式碼到臨床：用人工智慧改善醫療效果（From Code to Clinic: Using AI to Improve Patient Outcomes）」。

罕見病座談送紀念品給講者。（讀者提供）

        4場座談，題目分別為「將罕見疾病基因體學轉化為精準療法（Translating Rare Disease Genomics into Precision Therapies）」，「解碼基因傳遞：AAV、LNP 與 VLP 技術的策略比較 (Decoding Gene Delivery: Comparative Strategies in AAV, LNP, and VLP Technologies)」，「新型藥物模式：RNA幹擾、蛋白質降解與基因編輯的融合(Novel Drug Modalities: The Convergence of RNA Interference, Protein Degradation, and Genome Editing)」，「超越臨床：造福地球的生物技術(Beyond the Clinic: Biotechnology for the Planet)」。

        午餐圓桌會的7個主題，分別是1. 求職與面試指南，2. 履歷優化輔導，3. 從不確定到機會：職業轉型的思維模式，4. 建立你的首個 AI 智能體工作流程，5. 跨越鴻溝：學術界與產業界的溝通技巧，6. 化學、製造與控制（CMC）：職業路徑與產業洞察，7. 台灣學術界：現況與未來展望。

BTBA前會長杜荷州（中）是Novel Drug Modalities座談講者之一。（周菊子攝）

        主持座談的人包括波士頓經文處科技組組長蔡孟勳，中研院細胞與固體生物學研究所副研究員李宜靜（Yi-Ching Lee），圖策科技（Graphen Health）技術長梁景翔（Richard Liang），Leveragen 主任周嘉慶，禮來（Eli Lilly） 資深科學領導施毓桓（Yu-Huan Shih ），BTBA前會長暨Be Biopharma資深科學家及小組經理吳佩容等人。

姚俊臣（右）和楊志祥（左）主持Beyond the Clinic: Biotechnology for the Planet座談。
（周菊子攝）

        早餐會也有BTBA前會長邱亮源等人，各盡己力的駐守會場，分享經驗，有問必答的回答任何出席者的提問。

台美生技協會會長洪筱鈴（左起）和年會總朝張家華預告該會今年11月7, 8兩日年會。
（周菊子攝）

BTBA共會長，諾華（Novartis）資深科學家廖怡恩和百奧賽圖（Biocytogen）體內藥理科學家楊志祥在會末總結時，感謝數十名參與策劃及執行的志工們，頒發口頭報告獎給2名博士候選人，哈佛的胡金儒和東北大學的Hsin-Wen Liang。頒發最佳海報講給明尼蘇達大學的Chia-Ling Yu，西北大學Pin-Chi Hou，以及觀眾選擇獎Wisconsin-Madison大學Kevin Shih。

會議第一天，還送出紀念品，感謝紐英崙玉山科技協會會長許益祥等十幾名導師（Mentors）。

德州台灣生物科技協會代表說，該會今年年會也是11月7、8日那個週末。
（周菊子攝）

BTBA 2026的第14屆年會，在一天半之內，舉辦了2場主題演講， 2場趨勢座談，4場分論壇，以及邀得13名前輩分享經驗，分7個主題的午餐圓桌會，邀得21名專家現場回答提問的早餐會，內容十分豐富。

台美生技協會會長洪筱玲和2026年會總召張家華，以及德州台灣生物科技協會代表，這天都來出席會議，呼籲「台灣人支持台灣人」，並預告各自的年會日期，居然都是11月7、8兩日的這個週末，引發台下一片爆笑。

BTBA感謝擔任導師的許益祥（中）等人。（周菊子攝）

BTBA 2026年會口頭報告得獎人為胡金儒和Hsin-Wen Liang。

BTBA 2026年會最佳海報獎及觀眾選擇獎得主。（周菊子攝）

北一女校友許翠玲（左二）和吳杏玫（右二）特地出席，為學妹，
BTBA本屆會長廖怡恩打氣。（周菊子攝）

BTBA2026會長廖怡恩（右二起），楊志祥和本屆董事胡金儒，吳佩容，
羅維中，蔡明儒。（周菊子攝）

熱浪又來了！波士頓市長促請市民7/14、15 提高警覺

    (Boston Orange編譯)波士頓市長吳弭（Michelle Wu）提醒居民，天氣預報稱7月14日與15日，人們的體感溫度將達 95°F 至 103°F，請民眾注意安全。

    市府將依據門檻更新了的「波士頓抗熱韌性解決方案」框架，發佈高溫預警與過熱警告，以優化資源分配。市府呼籲市民至 boston.gov/heat 查詢相關資源，重點摘要如下：

    避暑資源： 開放 BCYF 社區中心、公共圖書館、泳池與戲水池供民眾消暑；「AlertBoston」系統提供11種語言的緊急氣象通知。

    弱勢關懷： 呼籲大眾留意鄰居與寵物。長者可聯繫 Age Strong 委員會領取計程車優惠券；街友可前往24小時開放的空調庇護所（男士至 Southampton 街，女士至 Woods Mullen），高溫期間實施寬赦免責條款。

    安全防範： 務必多喝水並做好防曬；冷氣機應直接插在牆上插座，嚴禁接延長線以防火災；切勿將孩童或寵物單獨留在車內；戶外地面易發燙，活動時務必穿鞋防燙傷；高樓窗戶應加裝護欄。

    用火管制： 全市嚴禁營火或篝火，戶外烤肉須嚴格符合木炭與瓦斯爐的地點規定。

    市府提醒道，高溫是氣候致死的主因，若有人出現暈眩、嘔吐等熱衰竭症狀，請立即撥打 911 求救。

BOSTON - Monday, July 13, 2026 -  The City of Boston is reminding residents and visitors of hot weather safety tips as high temperatures are forecast for Tuesday, July 14 and Wednesday, July 15. The highest heat indices for this period are expected to range from 95°F to 103°F with little relief overnight. "As we face another heat wave, our primary focus is keeping every member of our community safe," said Chief of Emergency Preparedness Adrian Jordan. "We continue to ask residents to not only look out for themselves but to check in on neighbors, elderly family members, and pets who may be highly vulnerable to these high temperatures." The City of Boston is taking immediate action to provide heat relief to residents and visitors. During a heat wave, Boston Emergency Medical Services typically experiences a 10-15% increase in calls to 9-1-1 for people of all ages. Anyone can feel the impacts of extreme heat, regardless of age or medical conditions. Some of the resources available include: AlertBoston, the City’s opt-in emergency alert system that provides guidance during major emergencies; cooling resources across the city; educational materials focused on kids’ safety; Boston Centers for Youth & Families locations and state-owned pools. All information about these and other City resources are available at boston.gov/heat. This year, the City has updated its heat preparedness categorization thresholds and language for hot weather events to be in line with other partners and ensure resources are allocated efficiently. The City will now issue a heat advisory if there is a heat index of 95°F for 2 hours over 2 consecutive days or 1 day with a heat index of 100°F for 2 consecutive hours.  Additionally, the City of Boston will now issue an excessive heat warning for 1 day of a heat index of 105°F or above for 2 or more consecutive hours or a temperature increase of at least 25°F within a 24-hour period of time with the high temperature reaching 90°F or above.  Stay Informed Residents can sign up to receive updates through AlertBoston, the City’s emergency mass notification system, by phone, text, or email for information regarding extreme weather events. AlertBoston notifications are available in 11 languages. Residents, families and visitors are encouraged to visit boston.gov/heat, a city webpage with resources and tips to prepare for and stay safe during heat events. The page also has specific information for parents, older adults, people with disabilities, individuals experiencing homelessness, and others. Places to Cool Off Splash pads are open at various parks and playgrounds throughout the city. Several city pools are also available for swimming. Find an updated list of splash pads, pool locations and their operating hours at Boston.gov/pools.  Boston Centers for Youth & Families community centers are available during normal business hours on Tuesday, July 14 and Wednesday, July 15 for people to come in and cool off. Find locations and hours at Boston.gov/BCYF.  Boston Public Library locations are also available for residents to seek relief from the heat during their regular hours on Tuesday, July 14 and Wednesday, July 15. Patrons are welcome to participate in BPL’s summer programming for kids, teens, and adults.  The City issued the following heat safety tips: Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids regardless of activity level. Avoid alcoholic beverages and liquids high in sugar or caffeine. Keep cool with frequent cool showers, shade, and air conditioning or fans. More tips for cooling down at home can be found on boston.gov/heat. If you can not avoid being outside, take breaks in the shade, drink water constantly — even if you are not thirsty — and watch for warning signs like dizziness, nausea, or confusion. Know the signs of heat exhaustion. Heavy sweating, cool and clammy skin, dizziness, nausea, and muscle aches could all be signs of heat exhaustion. If symptoms persist, call 9-1-1 immediately. Do not delay care. Heat is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the U.S. and can exacerbate underlying illnesses. Adults and children should use sunscreen containing an SPF-30 or higher and wear protective, loose-fitting clothing including long sleeve shirts and hats. Secure all window air conditioner units according to the manufacturer's specifications. To help prevent electrical fires, always plug air conditioners and fans directly into a wall outlet. Never use extension cords or overload power strips, as these can overheat and create a serious fire hazard. If you are heading to a beach, lake, or pool to beat the heat, swim where lifeguards are present. Always watch children near the water and make sure they are wearing a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket. Please call or check on neighbors, especially older adults and people with disabilities. If you are an older adult and need help getting to a cooler space, the Age Strong Commission offers discounted taxi vouchers for seniors and people with disabilities. Call 617-635-4366 for more information. Please keep pets indoors, hydrated, and cool as asphalt and ground conditions are significantly hotter and unsafe during heat. Information and resources to support individuals experiencing homelessness:    If you see a person experiencing homelessness or individuals out in the heat who appear immobile or disoriented, please call 911.  The Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) utilizes a city-wide network of emergency shelters, outreach providers, city agencies, and first responders to assist those in need of shelter.  Boston Public Health Commission's emergency shelters have air conditioning and are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and when temperatures are 90 degrees or above, amnesty is in place for those with nonviolent restrictions. Men can access shelter at the 112 Southampton Street Shelter, and women should go to the Woods Mullen Shelter at 794 Massachusetts Ave. BPHC and the City also work closely with other shelter providers to ensure that no client is without shelter, food, resources, and a cool respite from the heat.  Shelters are available any time of day or night for those in need.  Boston Public Health Commission’s street outreach teams providing recovery services continue operating as normal from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. on weekdays and 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends transporting people to shelter, day spaces, treatment, home, or places of origin. During this stretch of extreme heat, outreach workers will be passing out water to those who need it. Youth and Outdoor Safety:   Hot weather affects infants and young children more than most adults because they heat up more quickly and sweat less. The potential impacts of heat on childhood health and development can be lifelong.  Children and pets should never be left alone in vehicles, even for short periods of time. If you have a child under the age of 10 in your home, install child window guards in addition to screens on any open window that is more than 12 feet above ground. Falls are the leading cause of injury for children under the age of six.    Parents, guardians, and educators can visit boston.gov/cool-kids to make an action plan and review heat guides for children. Shoes should be worn outdoors, including on splash pads, spray decks, playgrounds, and turf athletic fields, as surfaces can become extremely hot and cause burns. Outdoor Fires and Grilling: No outdoor fires are allowed in Boston, including fire pits, chimineas, and bonfires. Charcoal grills must be on the ground and away from buildings. Keep in mind the wind and never leave grills unattended. Dispose of the ash in a metal container once completely out. Propane tank grills are only allowed on first floor porches with steps to the ground. Do not place propane tank grills near air conditioners or up against a building. Make sure all connections are tight and never carry propane tanks into a home. Grills should only be used in a well-ventilated area. The City of Boston’s work is guided by the Heat Resilience Solutions for Boston framework to prepare for hotter summers and more intense heat events. The Heat Plan presents 26 strategies that will help build a more just, equitable, and resilient Boston.

Governor Healey Celebrates Successful World Cup Operations Across Massachusetts

Governor Healey Celebrates Successful World Cup Operations Across Massachusetts 

 Public Safety, Transportation, Public Health and State Partners Deliver Safe, Seamless Tournament Through Historic Statewide Coordination 

 

BOSTON – Governor Maura Healey today recognized the successful conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Massachusetts. Thanks to the coordinated efforts of thousands of public safety professionals, transportation workers, emergency managers, public health experts and state, local, federal and private-sector partners, Massachusetts delivered a safe, secure, and welcoming tournament experience for residents and visitors alike. 
 
Following more than two years of planning and collaboration, Match Ready Massachusetts brought together agencies across state government to execute one of the largest coordinated operations in the state history. Massachusetts safely hosted seven FIFA World Cup matches, including a quarterfinal match, hosted Team France's base camp, supported FIFA Fan Festival at Boston City Hall Plaza and dozens of community watch parties across the state, and showcased Massachusetts as a global destination for tourism, sports and innovation.  

 

 "The World Cup gave Massachusetts an incredible opportunity to welcome visitors from around the globe and show off everything our state has to offer," said Governor Maura Healey. "From public safety and transportation to public health and emergency management, thousands of people worked around the clock to make sure every match was safe, every visitor felt welcome and every community could share in this historic moment. Their teamwork and dedication made this tournament an extraordinary success.  

 

“In particular, the MBTA had a historic performance – safely and efficiently transporting tens of thousands of fans each day to the brand-new Foxboro station, as well as to points all around the region,” continued Governor Healey. “This is a testament to the turnaround at the T under our administration and the leadership of General Manager Eng. We hope residents and visitors alike continue to utilize our fare discounts throughout the rest of the summer and enjoy the major improvements we have made across the system." 

 

"Hosting seven World Cup matches was an incredible opportunity to welcome visitors from around the world and show off everything Massachusetts has to offer," said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. "The teamwork, planning and coordination that went into this tournament were truly extraordinary, and the partnerships built through this effort will strengthen our ability to host major events for years to come." 

 

Economic Impact and Tourism 

The 2026 FIFA World Cup generated economic activity across Massachusetts, extending well beyond Boston Stadium through FIFA Fan Festival, community watch parties and regional events. These celebrations brought residents and visitors together, supported local businesses, showcased communities across the state and allowed more people to participate in the excitement of the tournament. State agencies worked closely with municipalities, tourism partners and event organizers to maximize the tournament's statewide economic and tourism benefits while ensuring events were safe and welcoming. 

  

By the Numbers: 

• 447,283 fans attended FIFA World Cup matches in Massachusetts  
• More than 30 communities hosted watch parties across the state 
• 160,000 attendees from 108 countries visited the FIFA Fan Festival, with hundreds of thousands participating in celebrations statewide   

 

Public Safety 

Public safety operations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup represented one of the largest coordinated efforts ever undertaken in Massachusetts. A total of 14 specialized planning groups brought together local, state, federal and private-sector partners to coordinate communications, tactical operations, intelligence, transportation security, emergency management, health and medical services, public information, Fan Festival operations, team movements, and Boston Stadium security. Together, these partners delivered safe and seamless operations throughout the tournament. 

 

“The success of the 2026 FIFA World Cup illustrates the power of working together in support of a global event unlike anything Massachusetts has seen before,” said Public Safety and Security Secretary Gina Kwon. “Leaders from across local, state, and federal government planned complex match day operations for nearly two years with one shared mission of keeping people safe. Through these extraordinary partnerships, Massachusetts has raised the standard of excellence.” 

  

By the Numbers: 

• Deployed more than 4,000 Massachusetts State Police (MSP) staff assignments 
• Coordinated 663 law enforcement missions through the State Police Operations Center, ensuring seamless command and control throughout the tournament  
• Protected tournament airspace by detecting 70 unauthorized drones, seizing 33 drones, and mitigating six drone incursions 
• Safely escorted teams, dignitaries and officials through 260 motorcycle escort missions across the tournament footprint 
• Provided continuous aerial law enforcement support through the State Police Air Wing, conducting surveillance, operational flights and civil unrest response missions 
• Maintained rapid tactical response capabilities through 145 TACOPS activations, including eight Quick Reaction Force deployments 
• Maintained a safe and secure environment at Boston Stadium 
• Activated up to 85 Massachusetts National Guard members to support stadium security 
• The multi-agency CBRNE Task Force screened 6,863 vehicles, assessed and cleared 1,346 unattended bags, and completed 619 security sweeps in support of stadium operations 
• Produced 38 daily situational awareness reports, providing a common operating picture and keeping partners informed of operational impacts and emerging issues 
• Deployed MEMA's Mobile Emergency Operations Center for 27 days to support match-day public safety operations, including explosive ordnance detection and hazardous materials response 
• Activated the Public Safety Unified Coordination Center seven times, facilitating coordination among 11 operations centers across Massachusetts and Rhode Island 
• Completed 16 Department of Fire Services Rehab Unit deployments, supporting more than 700 first responders 
• Conducted 28 Gator and UTV missions to support public safety and medical operations in and around Boston Stadium 
• Supported 30 missions for the U.S. Department of Energy Airborne Measurement System and Technical Support Group 

 

Transportation 

MassDOT, the MBTA and regional transportation providers successfully supported one of the largest travel operations in Massachusetts history, helping hundreds of thousands of residents and visitors travel safely and efficiently throughout the tournament. Through coordinated traffic management, enhanced incident response, real-time traveler information and expanded transit service, transportation partners minimized disruptions while providing reliable access to Boston Stadium. 

 

Ahead of the World Cup, the MBTA completed major accessibility and capacity upgrades at Foxboro Station, including new fully accessible level-boarding platforms that improved passenger flow and allowed riders to board and exit trains more efficiently.  

  

Throughout the tournament, the MBTA operated 14 dedicated Commuter Rail express trains for every match, complemented by additional station personnel, extended subway and bus service, and targeted schedule adjustments across the transit network to accommodate both World Cup visitors and regular riders. These investments and operational enhancements helped deliver unprecedented rail service to Boston Stadium. 

 

“Since day one, the Healey-Driscoll Administration has been focused on rebuilding and strengthening our transportation system, and that commitment has delivered results. Those investments have made our system stronger and have allowed us to better serve our communities and the general public,” said Interim Secretary of Massachusetts & MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng. “People across the state continue to see and feel that impact, and that is what has laid the foundation for the success we have had with the World Cup. Thanks to the outstanding leadership of the Healey-Driscoll Administration, the support of our state legislature, coordination between MassDOT, the MBTA, our municipal partners, public safety agencies, and transportation stakeholders across the region, we successfully kept people moving while reducing traffic on our roadways. Through proactive planning, clear and consistent public messaging, and strong partnerships, we encouraged travelers to use public transportation and make informed travel decisions. This success reflects what can be achieved when agencies work together with a shared commitment to serving the public. On behalf of our teams, I want to thank every employee and partner whose dedication and teamwork helped deliver a safe, reliable, and efficient transportation network during this extraordinary period.” 

 

Governor Healey also launched a series of summer fare promotions and discounts on the Commuter Rail lowering costs for regular and visiting riders ahead of the tournament. This included Free Fridays, a 50 percent discount on monthly passes and expanded weekend travel for monthly pass holders. 

 

By the Numbers: 

Throughout June 13-July 9 (when Boston hosted World Cup Matches), the MBTA in partnership with Keolis Commuter Services:  

  

• Operated 98 round trip event trains between South Station and Foxboro Station, which is 14 per match  
• Sold over 108,940 round-trip train tickets, nearly 10 times the previous single-event record of approximately 11,000 tickets sold for the 2023 Army-Navy Game 
• Ensured 100 percent of trains arrived at Boston Stadium with at least 90 minutes before kickoff for every match   
• Updated existing station signage and installed over 400 new FIFA wayfinding material, including signs and decals throughout the transit system to help riders navigate stations and connections  
• Positioned 700 employees across the transit network on every match day, including customer service, operations, mechanical, engineering and safety personnel, to assist riders and quickly respond to operational needs 
• Established a temporary field maintenance facility in Mansfield, staffed by about 100 employees, to support light maintenance, cleaning, servicing, and inspections during the match so trains were ready to serve riders as soon as the final whistle blew   
• Hosted thousands of riders waiting for their boarding groups at Dewey Square in partnership with the Greenway group  
• Distributed over 26,400 cans of Water, 28,500 sunscreen packets, 44,000 ponchos, 25,000 hand sanitizer wipes, and 15,600 bug repellents through a partnership among MassDOT Security & Emergency Management and the Department of Public Health (DPH). 
•  Implemented a comprehensive traffic management plan along major corridors to Gillette Stadium, using additional incident response, traveler messaging and traffic monitoring to minimize delays on Match Days.  

 

Public Health 

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) worked alongside local boards of health, hospitals, healthcare providers and emergency medical services to help ensure a safe and healthy tournament. Through enhanced disease surveillance, healthcare coordination, heat preparedness and multilingual public outreach, DPH supported public health operations while helping residents and visitors stay informed throughout the event. 

 

"As the final whistle blew on the last World Cup match in Massachusetts, we had more to celebrate than six weeks of incredible soccer," said Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein, MD, PhD. "We welcomed the world, showcased the very best of our Commonwealth and did it safely and seamlessly because of more than a year of planning and remarkable collaboration. I am deeply grateful to our Office of Preparedness and Emergency Management, our state and local partners, healthcare providers, first responders, and community organizations whose dedication and determination made this success possible. Public health works best when we come together, and this World Cup showed exactly what Massachusetts can accomplish through preparation, partnership and a shared commitment to keeping people healthy and safe." 

 

By the Numbers: 

• Public health guidance distributed in five languages: English, Brazilian Portuguese, French, Haitian Creole and Spanish  
• Coordinated with 72 hospitals across Massachusetts and 1 in Rhode Island as well as 4 Centralized Emergency Medical Dispatch centers 
• Seven pre-match healthcare coordination calls held with 24 acute care hospital systems, Conference of Boston Teaching Hospitals, four licensed ambulance services, three regional Health and Medical Coordinating Coalition sponsoring organizations, the Rhode Island Department of Health, Rhode Island Healthcare Coordination Committee, and the Boston 26 host committee to support health system readiness and coordination, in addition to several dedicated webinars for healthcare providers and local public health in the months leading up to the events 
• Four unhealthy heat alerts issued across 16 days, including three match days; alert notifications distributed to 65,000 recipients through the Health and Homeland Alert Network 
• 107 emergency medical service transports tracked from Boston Stadium, ranging from seven to 24 transports per match 
• Three ambulance strike teams provided during match days, working 10-hour shifts to support existing EMS operations between South Station and Foxborough 
• 40 DPH staff supporting each match in either an in-person, virtual, or on-call capacity to promote situational awareness, provide heat mitigation supplies, monitor and mitigate health and medical impacts, and closely collaborate with other agencies to provide executive level decision-making and strategic guidance. 

 

Public Information 

A coordinated communications campaign, Match Ready Massachusetts, helped keep residents, visitors and partners informed before and throughout the tournament with timely, multilingual public safety and public health information. 

 

By the Numbers 

• 57 public information officers coordinated messaging through a Joint Information Center spanning federal, state, and local agencies, event organizers, and nonprofit organizations 
• Two statewide public awareness campaigns launched to promote Match Readiness and Human Trafficking Awareness 
• Four public safety readiness press events held ahead of the tournament. 
• More than 40 multilingual digital assets and public service announcements produced to inform residents and visitors 
• More than 20 public safety and public health messages developed in five languages. 

 

While the tournament has concluded, the partnerships, operational framework and lessons learned through Match Ready Massachusetts will continue strengthening the Commonwealth's preparedness for future large-scale events and emergencies.