新英格蘭地區今年17人將赴台留學 波士頓教育組辦行前說明會

波士頓經文處教育組組長黃薳玉（前右五）和處長廖朝宏，以及得獎留學生們合影。
（周菊子攝）

  （Boston Orange周菊子波士頓報導）波士頓經文處教育組為協助臺灣獎學金及華語文獎學金的新英格蘭地區17名得獎者順利赴台留學，今（10）日特地舉辦行前說明會，並邀3名前屆得獎者分享經驗。

波士頓經文處教育組組長黃薳玉為赴台留學生們辦行前說明會。（周菊子攝）

波士頓經文處教育組組長黃薳玉在會中詳細說明了獎學金相關規定、赴臺前應辦理事項、在臺生活須知，以及教育部提供的相關資源，以期得獎學生們抵達台灣後，能順利銜接未的學習與生活。

    黃薳玉組長鼓勵得獎學生們珍惜赴臺學習機會，充分利用時間，深入地方，拓展視野，體驗生活，甚至擔任英語志工。她也提醒得獎學生們，學業成績必須維持在80%以上，以免發生曾有學生成績兩度未達標，獎學金資格被取消那樣的憾事。

得獎留學生們竟然大部分都曾去過台灣。（周菊子攝）

    根據教育部及外交部相關資料，在去年放寬名額，提高津貼後，如今華語文獎學金每月台幣28000元，研修學位的台灣獎學金每學期有大約4萬元學雜費補助，以及每月1.5萬元到3萬元的生活費。

波士頓經文處處長廖朝宏提醒服台留學生們，今年將見證到台灣選舉。（周菊子攝）

    波士頓經文處處長廖朝宏應邀到場致詞，強調台美關係正處於歷史上最強健時刻，去年台灣已經是美國第四大貿易夥伴，雙方在半導體，人工智慧，高階製造和教育、安全等關鍵領域，都有緊密合作。

    廖朝宏指出，今年底赴台留學者非常幸運，將可親眼見證11月時的台灣大選。他說，台灣的人都知道，民主不是理所當然存在的，人們必須捍衛，就像在國防預算上做數以十億元計得投資。

王藝佳分享自己曾赴台灣台南成功大學的經驗。（周菊子攝）

    他祝福所有的赴台留學生，都能成為台灣永遠的朋友，將來回到美國後，能向身邊朋友更好的介紹台灣，成為促進臺美教育與文化交流的重要橋樑。

    這場說明會中，曾赴台留學的王藝佳（Liz Wang）、官雲權（Jeremiah Farrell）、姜金吉（Ethan Robbins）應教育組之邀，來到現場，分享他們當年的食衣住行與學習經驗，都盛讚那是一段令人難忘的日子。

麻州Littleton人，曾就讀Roger Williams大學的官雲權。（周菊子攝）

    其中，現年21歲的姜金吉（Ethan Robbins），是緬因州第一位獲得臺灣獎學金，並赴臺攻讀大學學位的學生。他盛讚台灣的島嶼，風景，尤其是人情最迷人，還笑說自己到台灣時是個單身漢，如今已有未婚妻。

姜金吉來自緬因州，得到台灣獎學金，進了台大就讀。（周菊子攝）

    大波士頓地區今年獲選的赴台留學生，有2名研讀學位的臺灣獎學金生，分別來自麻州，伊利諾州，以及15名短期研修中文的華語文獎學金生，分別來自麻州，羅德島州，科羅拉多州，紐約州。這些得獎者

    這些得獎學生有些是新英格蘭各州州民，但目前在外州工作，有些是其他州的州民，在新英格蘭各州就讀，也有人目前在臺灣工作，但希望在臺灣繼續深造或留台學習中文，所以申請獎學金。

麻州經商環境排名2年躍升23名 科技創新、生活品質都名列前十

    （Boston Orange編譯）麻州報喜訊，在CNBC新公佈的年度「全美最佳商業州」排行榜中，今年不但總排名2年內躍升23名，還奪得商業上新英格蘭第一，教育上全美第一的評等。在科技創新，獲取資金，以及生活品質上也都名列前十。

    麻州去年才獲得經商環境改善最多州美譽，總排名進步18名，今年總排名再躍升5名，形成2年共躍升23名的佳績。

    麻州州長奚莉（Maura Healey）表示，麻州擁有全國最優秀的教育體系，是宜居宜商之地，但政府將持續致力降低住房與醫療成本、創造就業機會、簡化創業流程，並鞏固麻州在創新經濟中的全球領先地位。

    麻州經濟發展廳廳長艾瑞克·帕利（Eric Parley）指出，從頂尖人才、生命科學、機器人、人工智慧到先進製造，麻州正打造吸引投資、強化競爭力的產業生態。

    麻州政府指出，自從奚莉州長上任以來，麻州增加了1.76萬就業人口，增速超越全國，去年的GDP成長率也領先其他州。在降低住房成本方面，麻州府已排定建造10萬戶新住宅，並提高了首購族頭期款補助、取消租賃仲介費，在醫療方面更是首度實施自付額與共付額上限，簡化保險審核；能源方面則反對公用事業漲價，導入更多美國製能源供給。

    波士頓動力、摩根大通、寶僑吉列、奇異航太、阿斯特捷利康、GSK等企業最近擴大在麻州的投資，AI新創陸續進駐，帶動逾14億美元民間資金。

    麻州政府今年提出「麻州致勝法」，已核發5,200萬美元抵稅優惠給11家企業，預計創造2,793個新增就業機會，保留1,503個現有職位，將進一步鞏固麻州作為全球創新與經濟機會中心的地位。

Massachusetts Continues to Rise in Top States for Business Ranking 

Massachusetts jumped 23 spots over past two years in CNBC ranking; ranked highest of New England states and #1 for education 

BOSTON – Massachusetts continues its rapid rise in CNBC’s annual America’s Top States for Business ranking, gaining 23 spots over the past two years and coming in as the #1 state for education nationwide and #1 state for business in New England. Massachusetts also ranked in the top ten states nationwide for technology and innovation, access to capital and quality of life. This comes after Massachusetts was  

named the Most Improved State for Business last year, jumping 18 places. 

 

“Massachusetts continues to be a great place to live and do business with the best education system in the country, but we know that there is more work to do,” said Governor Maura Healey. “We’re going to keep working every day to lower costs like housing and health care, create good jobs, make it easier for businesses to start and grow here, make sure every child is getting an excellent education, and grow our global leadership in the innovation economy.” 

 

“Massachusetts continues to demonstrate why it is one of the best places in the world to start and grow a business,” said Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley. “From the nation's top-ranked education system and our unmatched talent to our leadership in industries like life sciences, robotics, AI, and advanced manufacturing, we're building an economy that attracts investment, creates jobs, and strengthens our competitiveness.” 

Since taking office, Governor Healey has prioritized lowering costs, growing Massachusetts’ competitiveness and making the state a great place to do business. Massachusetts has added 17,600 jobs since September, outpacing the nation, and led the country in GDP growth last year. 

 

To lower the cost of housing, Governor Healey has made it easier to build homes, with 100,000 new homes in the pipeline. She increased downpayment assistance for first-time homebuyers and eliminated renter’s fees. To lower the cost of health care, she capped co-pays and deductibles for the first time in state history, eliminated prior authorizations from insurance companies and expanded affordable health insurance coverage. To lower the cost of energy, she is opposing rate hikes from the utilities, getting charges off of bills and bringing in more American-made energy supply.  

 

Massachusetts continues to build on this economic momentum through strong job growth, industry-leading innovation, and sustained business investment across the state. With leadership in sectors such as health care, life sciences, advanced manufacturing, climatetech, robotics, quantum computing and applied artificial intelligence, Massachusetts continues to attract investment and create jobs.   

  

Recent business expansions underscore this strength, including major investments and job growth from companies such as Boston Dynamics, JPMorganChase, Procter & Gamble’s Gillette, GE Aerospace, VulcanForms, GSK, AstraZeneca, WHOOP, and leading AI firms establishing a presence in the state. Together, these investments reinforce Massachusetts’ position as a global hub for innovation, talent and economic opportunity. 

 

Earlier this year, Governor Healey filed her Mass Wins Act, an economic development bill that positions Massachusetts as a global destination for companies looking to invest, grow and create jobs in the United States, while strengthening the state’s competitiveness and lowering costs for businesses. The Healey-Driscoll Administration also recently provided $52 million in state tax credits to 11 businesses to create 2,793 net new jobs, retain 1,503 existing jobs statewide, and leverage more than $1.4 billion in private investment. 

...

Healey-Driscoll Administration Releases 2026 Massachusetts Workforce Data Report

 Healey-Driscoll Administration Releases 2026 Massachusetts Workforce Data Report

 Report provides new employer-reported data on workforce representation across private, nonprofit, state and local government employers

BOSTON — The Healey-Driscoll Administration today released the 2026 Massachusetts Workforce Data Report, providing new, employer-reported data on workforce demographics across the Massachusetts workforce industry, including private, nonprofit, state, and local government employers.

The report, commissioned by the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD), in partnership with Boston University and the Boston Women’s Workforce Council, analyzes workforce demographic data from employers with 100 or more workers, offering a comprehensive snapshot of race, gender, job category, and industry representation across both public and private sectors, with an analysis on workplace equity to help better understand workforce trends and opportunities

“Massachusetts is committed to building an equitable workforce where opportunity is visible, measurable, and accessible,” said Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development Lauren Jones. “This report provides a clear view on progress achieved and identified gaps and disparities to overcome.”

The 2026 report analyzes two categories of employer-reported data:

• Private and nonprofit organizations with 100 or more employees. Massachusetts received 1,526 EEO-1 submissions, representing approximately 760,000 employees.

• State and local government entities. Massachusetts received 34 EEO-4 submissions, representing approximately 71,000 employees. 

Key findings from the 2026 report include:

• Gender balance in private sector. Women make up a majority of the private-sector workforce but remain underrepresented in senior leadership. Women account for 53 percent of the reporting private-sector workforce, but only hold about one-third of Executive/Senior Level Officials and Managers roles.

• Race and ethnicity disparities persist across job categories. Black or African American and Hispanic or Latino employees are underrepresented in professional and managerial roles and overrepresented in service and laborer positions relative to their overall workforce shares.

• Leadership disparities are especially pronounced at the intersection of race and sex. White men account for more than half of the Executive/Senior Level Officials and Managers roles, while Black or African American and Hispanic or Latina women each hold only small shares of these positions.

• Greater diversity in larger employers. The report finds that larger employers have modestly higher levels of sex and racial diversity in Executive/Senior Level Officials and Managers roles.

• The public-sector workforce is majority male and predominantly White. Among reporting state and local government entities, the workforce is 52 percent male and 48 percent female, with White employees representing 69 percent of employees, followed by Black or African American employees at 15 percent, Hispanic or Latino employees at 10 percent, and Asian employees at 4 percent.

• Public-sector roles and pay bands show notable disparities. Women are heavily concentrated in Health and Public Welfare functions and remain a small share of Fire Protection, Sanitation and Sewage, and Police Protection roles. The report also finds that White employees make up nearly three-quarters of workers in the $70,000+ salary band, while Black or African American employees are overrepresented in middle salary bands and Hispanic or Latino employees are overrepresented in the lowest salary band.

In July 2024, Governor Maura Healey signed the Frances Perkins Workplace Equity Act into law, which required EOLWD to publish this first-of-its-kind annual report, with the inaugural report released in June 2025. This annual report emphasizes that employer-reported EEO data provides a complementary view to broader federal labor market data, offering a more granular look at workforce demographics by job category, industry, organizational size, government function, and salary band.

The Frances Perkins Workplace Equity Act, named after the Massachusetts native who was the first woman to serve as US Secretary of Labor, included additional tools to help promote wage transparency and level the playing field for all workers. In addition to the data collection requirement, the law protects an employee’s right to ask for salary range information and requires public and private employers with 25 or more employees to disclose pay ranges in job postings and internal promotions.

The full 2026 Massachusetts Workforce Data Report is available at mass.gov/workforce2026.

The THIRD SUMMER OF BOSTON AFTER DARK PROGRAMMING Every Friday Night from 7/10-8/28

MAYOR MICHELLE WU AND OFFICE OF YOUTH ENGAGEMENT AND ADVANCEMENT ANNOUNCE THIRD SUMMER OF BOSTON AFTER DARK PROGRAMMING

Mayor Michelle Wu and the City of Boston’s Office of Youth Engagement (OYEA) today announced the dates for the third summer of Boston After Dark programming. Boston After Dark provides safe and fun opportunities for teenagers (14-18 years old) to be in community on Friday evenings during the summer. This year, OYEA has expanded their partnership with the Boston Housing Authority and welcomed Boston Children’s Hospital as new collaborators to support 19 events across 14 neighborhoods from June through August. The City kicked off this summer’s Boston After Dark programming at the Blackstone Boston Center for Youth and Families (BCYF) on June 26. Following this kickoff, OYEA will host at least two to three events every Friday night between July 10 and August 28 at a combination of YMCAs, Boston Housing Authority sites, Boston Centers for Youth and Families, and local Boston Parks. Each Friday will include games and activities, music by Youth Options Unlimited (YOU) youth DJs, ice cream, and free dinner from local small businesses. Other event activities will include airbrush tattoos, face painting, video games, swimming, basketball tournaments, photobooths, art projects, inflatable games, and more. Giveaways will also be provided in partnership by Red Sox Community Engagement, View Boston, and DICK’S House of Sport. “Young people thrive when they have safe, joyful spaces to relax and connect with friends in every neighborhood all summer long," said Mayor Michelle Wu. "Boston After Dark brings together community partners, neighborhood spaces, and trusted adults to create welcoming environments for teens. We're proud to continue expanding this program so even more young people have opportunities to feel supported, build lasting connections and explore new interests." “As we launch the third year of Boston After Dark, we remain focused on ensuring every young person in our city has access to joyful, safe, and enriching spaces throughout the summer months. This initiative isn't just about giving youth something to do when the sun goes down—it's about creating community hubs where they can build meaningful connections and simply enjoy being kids,” said Pedro Cruz, Executive Director of the Office of Youth Engagement and Advancement. “By expanding these positive environments across Boston's neighborhoods, we are directly investing in the well-being, growth, and safety of our next generation during their crucial out-of-school time.” The Boston After Dark initiative commenced in 2024 as a direct response to a pattern of youth violence seen in the summer of 2023. Along with community partners, OYEA recognized that many of these instances took place among young people already connected to summer programming, and identified a lack of opportunities for engagement after program or work hours as one crucial source. OYEA launched Boston After Dark to organize fun and safe spaces for teens during evening hours throughout the summer.  The first year of Boston After Dark events reached 1000 youth across Boston. Last summer, OYEA engaged over 1,500 young people. Since the first year of summer programming, Boston After Dark has expanded partnerships with youth-serving collaborators to welcome new populations of young people. Building on this program’s success and growth, OYEA is hosting more events at Boston Housing Authority sites, with the objective of bringing programming into existing spaces where young people feel most comfortable. Additionally, OYEA is hosting a first-of-its-kind pilot event in South Boston’s Moakley Park. Expanding event venues to include Boston parks will bring teens together in public spaces they may not have previously visited in their neighborhoods and make events accessible and more visible to teens who may not be connected to established teen centers. It also marks expanded partnerships between OYEA and other City departments.  “The Boston After Dark event series is exactly what our teen residents deserve - a safe place to relax and connect with their peers, enjoying a meal, and having fun,” said José F. Massó, Chief of Human Services. “I am proud to live in a City that prioritizes the safety and well-being of our youth.” “Boston Children's Hospital is committed to ensuring that young people across the city of Boston have safe, healthy, and engaging spaces this summer,” said Shari Nethersole, MD, Vice President for Community Health and Engagement at Boston Children’s Hospital. “We appreciate that the City shares this priority and thank OYEA for their ongoing leadership.” To learn more about Boston After Dark events this summer, visit boston.gov/after-dark and follow @oyeaboston Facebook and Instagram, and @oyea.boston.gov on Bluesky. BOSTON - Friday, July 10, 2026 -

Healey-Driscoll Administration Finalizes Assisted Living Safety Reforms Ahead of Anniversary of Gabriel House Fire

Healey-Driscoll Administration Finalizes Assisted Living Safety Reforms Ahead of Anniversary of Gabriel House Fire 

New regulations strengthen fire safety, emergency preparedness and accountability to better protect assisted living residents across Massachusetts 

BOSTON – One year after the tragic fire at Gabriel House Assisted Living Residence in Fall River claimed the lives of ten residents and injured dozens more, Governor Maura Healey today announced the finalization of comprehensive new safety regulations that will strengthen protections for older adults living in assisted living residences across Massachusetts.  

Finalized by the Executive Office of Aging & Independence (AGE), the amendments are among the most significant changes to the assisted living regulations in oversight in years. They implement key recommendations from the Assisted Living Residences Commission, incorporate extensive public feedback, and establish stronger standards for fire safety, emergency preparedness, resident protections and accountability across the industry. 

“The Gabriel House fire was a heartbreaking tragedy that forever changed the lives of so many families and the Fall River community,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Over the past year, we've worked closely with residents, families, firefighters, first responders, advocates and providers to make sure we learn from that tragedy and take meaningful action. These reforms will strengthen safety, improve emergency preparedness and give families greater confidence that their loved ones are living in safe, well-prepared communities.” 

Following the Gabriel House fire, the Healey-Driscoll Administration launched a comprehensive effort to strengthen safety and accountability across the assisted living industry. AGE convened the Assisted Living Residences Commission, engaged residents, families, providers, advocates, firefighters, emergency management officials and other stakeholders, and incorporated months of public testimony and feedback into the final regulations. 

“I am incredibly grateful to all of the community members, public safety officials, elected officials and experts who lent their time and knowledge to the Assisted Living Residences Commission. I also deeply appreciate the Aging & Independence staff who commit to collaborating and researching about the best ways to support older adults in our state,” said Health & Human Services Secretary Kiame Mahaniah, MD, MBA. “These final regulations exhibit our statewide commitment to the health and safety of residents.”  

“The Gabriel House fire was a tragedy that must never be forgotten. These reforms, along with others that have been implemented and proposed, represent a shared commitment to protect our most vulnerable residents in the places they should be safest,” said Public Safety & Security Secretary Gina K. Kwon. “I want to recognize the hard work of Secretary Lipson, the Executive Office of Aging & Independence, and our local and state partners in the fire service for their hard work to ensure that ALRs are safe and supportive environments for our loved ones.” 

"The public comment period was critical in helping us understand both the opportunities and challenges facing assisted living residences across Massachusetts," said Aging & Independence Secretary and ALR Commission Chair Robin Lipson. "The final regulations reflect a thoughtful balance between strengthening safety and accountability while remaining responsive to operational realities and the needs of residents and families.” 

The final regulations include significant new requirements that strengthen safety and oversight at assisted living residences across Massachusetts, including:  

• Annual fire inspections conducted by local fire departments.  
• Annual fire safety instruction for staff.  
• Quarterly fire drills and annual simulated evacuation exercises on every shift.  
• Enhanced emergency preparedness plans developed in coordination with local fire departments and state emergency management officials.  
• Automated external defibrillators (AEDs), naloxone and epinephrine at every residence, with CPR- and AED-certified staff available at all times.  
• Stronger resident protections through overnight safety checks in Special Care Residences, emergency response performance standards, improved incident tracking and documentation, and clearly posted evacuation procedures throughout each residence. 

The regulations also establish a framework for implementing Basic Health Services in assisted living residences, as authorized by Chapter 197 of the Acts of 2024. Residences that choose to offer Basic Health Services will be required to meet new certification standards and maintain licensed nursing coverage on-site for at least 16 hours each day. 

Today’s action builds on the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s broader efforts to strengthen assisted living oversight and improve transparency for residents and families. In addition to the regulatory changes announced today, AGE is developing a standardized disclosure form to help families better compare assisted living residencies and understand the services available at each location. AGE is also posting compliance reports online so families can make more informed decisions when choosing an assisted living residence. These reforms complement the assisted living consumer protection regulations recently issued by Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell. 

The final regulations will be filed with the Secretary of the Commonwealth and will take effect upon publication in the Massachusetts Register on July 31, 2026.

Governor Healey Kicks Off Free Summer Youth Activities Across Massachusetts

Governor Healey Kicks Off Free Summer Youth Activities Across Massachusetts 

DCR’s Summer Nights Program partners with 101 community organizations to offer free recreational, educational and leadership opportunities for young people 

LOWELL – The Healey-Driscoll Administration today kicked off another summer of free activities for young people across Massachusetts through the Department of Conservation and Recreation's (DCR) Summer Nights program. Throughout July and August, Summer Nights will offer thousands of young people free recreational, educational and leadership programs in communities across the state. Governor Maura Healey joined DCR Commissioner Nicole LaChapelle and local leaders at the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Lowell to launch the program's twelfth season. 

“Every child deserves the chance to have a fun, active and memorable summer, regardless of what their family can afford,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Summer Nights gives young people a safe place to be with friends, discover new interests, build confidence and create memories that will last long after summer ends. Programs like this are part of what makes Massachusetts a great place to grow up.” 

"Summer Nights is possible because of the incredible partnerships between DCR and more than 100 community organizations across Massachusetts," said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. "Together, they're creating opportunities for thousands of young people to stay active, explore new interests and build skills that will serve them well into the future." 

Summer Nights offers recreational and educational activities for participants between the ages of 13 and 21 living in Massachusetts’ urban communities. Since its inception in 2015, the program has expanded from just four community partners to over 100 organizations and nonprofits. Last year, approximately 30,000 children and teens participated in Summer Nights programs.  

“For more than a decade, Summer Nights has given young people across Massachusetts the chance to discover new interests, build confidence, and form lasting connections,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “With programs offered in communities throughout the state, Summer Nights makes it easier for more families to take part.”  

“Summer Nights is one of the most meaningful programs we offer because it reminds us what's possible when communities come together for young people," said DCR Commissioner Nicole LaChapelle. “Every young person deserves the opportunity to have a fun, active, and enriching summer in a place where they feel welcome and know they belong. Thanks to our community partners, we're able to provide these programs free, opening the door for more young people across Massachusetts to discover new interests, build confidence, and create lasting connections.” 

This year, Summer Nights will be hosting activities in 154 locations including in 41 communities including Boston (Chinatown, Dorchester, Downtown, East Boston, Hyde Park, Jamaica Plain, Mattapan, Roxbury, South Boston, and South End), Attleboro, Bridgewater, Brockton, Cambridge, Chelsea, Easthampton, Fall River, Fitchburg, Haverhill, Holyoke, Hull, Lawrence, Lowell, Lynn, Methuen, Milton, New Bedford, Norton, Pittsfield, Princeton, Quincy, Randolph, Salem, Somerville, South Hadley, Springfield, Stoughton, Taunton, West Springfield, Westfield, and Worcester. 

"The DCR Summer Nights program is an amazing investment in our young people and community,” said Lowell Mayor Erik Gitschier. “By providing free, safe and engaging activities throughout the summer, this partnership helps ensure that Lowell's youth have the opportunity to stay active, build friendship and leadership skills. Thank you to Governor Healey, her administration, and the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Lowell for putting this together." 

“The DCR Summer Nights program continues to bring tremendous energy and opportunity to communities across Massachusetts and we are proud to see Lowell once again playing a leading role in its success.  By partnering with organizations like the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Lowell, we’re able to offer our young people safe, enriching and engaging activities that build confidence, encourage leadership and strengthen community connections.  Programs such as the Outdoor Adventure Club and the Peace League Basketball series highlight Lowell’s commitment to supporting youth with meaningful experiences that help them grow, explore, and thrive,” said Lowell City Manager Thomas A. Golden, Jr.   “We are grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for their continued partnership with DCR and look forward to a vibrant, positive summer for all our families.” 

 

"The DCR Summer Nights Program goes beyond traditional recreation; it builds a vital bridge in our communities. By providing safe, inclusive evening spaces, it empowers our youth with the tools, skills, and joy they need to thrive and succeed," said Senator Vanna Howard. 

“I am excited that DCR is once again partnering with the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Lowell to offer DCR Summer Nights Programming,” said Representative Tara Hong. “Summer Nights provides opportunities for our community's young people to get out and enjoy nature, socialize, and stay active.” 

“As a former employee of DCR, I know firsthand that Summer Nights is an incredible investment in our young people and our communities,” said Representative Rodney Elliott. “For more than a decade, this program has given youth safe, inclusive, and engaging places to spend their summer evenings while building friendships, confidence, and lasting memories. Thanks to its tremendous success, DCR Summer Nights has expanded significantly over the past eleven years, reaching more communities and more young people than ever before. I'm proud to support this partnership with the Boys & Girls Club and DCR to ensure every child has access to positive opportunities that help them thrive all summer long." 

Programming runs through late August and includes basketball, volleyball, dance, martial arts, fishing, kayaking, rowing, camping, swimming, theater, STEM activities, nature exploration, cooking, painting and more. Participants can also take part in leadership development, health and wellness programming, academic tutoring, career and college readiness programs, media production and other educational opportunities. 

Summer Nights also offers adaptive programming, including kayaking, biking, hiking, pickleball and martial arts. Through partnerships with Boston Harbor Now, Sciantics and Mass Audubon, participants and their families can also access free ferry rides to the Boston Harbor Islands, Connecticut River cruises and canoeing lessons. 

For a full list of programming, please visit the DCR Summer Nights webpage. 

“DCR has been a great partner for the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Lowell,” said Joe Hungler, Executive Director of the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Lowell. “The Summer Nights program helps provide a safe place for teens to have fun, make friends, eat and join programs like Peace League basketball, outdoor adventures, sound recording and art. Our teens look forward to it every summer.” 
 

"For the past four years, the DCR Summer Nights program has given us the opportunity to bring young people with disabilities together to experience the joy of being outdoors," said Eileen Turpin, Director of Programs & Education at Waypoint Adventure. "From adaptive hikes to kayaking on Boston's waterways, these programs create lasting memories while showing that the outdoors truly belongs to everyone. We're grateful to DCR for continuing to invest in accessible recreation and inclusive community experiences.” 

“Our students are excited to begin rehearsals for the Water Festival! The Water Festival is an important community celebration that brings the vibrancy of Cambodian cultural heritage to the stage through dance and music. Our Summer Nights program is about more than rehearsals—it’s about creating lasting memories with our teens while providing a safe and inspiring space where they can stay connected to their culture, build meaningful friendships, and deepen their appreciation for Cambodian art, dance, and music,” said Angkor Dance Troupe Program Director Chummeng Soun. “Through these shared experiences, we hope to strengthen their sense of identity, belonging, and pride in their heritage.” 

“DCR Summer Nights funding provides an opportunity for marginalized youth in Lowell to participate in free digital photography training at the YWCA of Lowell, as well as outdoor fieldwork at various locations, including DCR sites,” said YMCA of Lowell Youth and Family Services Director Christine Napolitano. “Youth participants not only acquire an understanding of photography as a form of subjective expression but also gain a brand-new awareness and appreciation of local outdoor spaces. We are honored to stand with DCR and other community partners who provide DCR Summer Nights programming. It matters.”   

“The Summer Nights Program is about much more than recreation,” said Lisa Welcome, Executive Director of the Montachusett Community Branch YMCA. “It is about providing young people with a safe place to spend their evenings, surrounded by positive role models, caring staff, and opportunities to build confidence, develop healthy habits, and connect with their peers. We are committed to ensuring that every child has access to experiences that help them thrive.” 

“The Summer Nights program has a tremendous impact on the programs and events at the Boys & Girls Club of Greater New Bedford. Thanks to your support our ability to offer programs and events focusing on physical recreation, nutrition, culture, music and arts and more, for many are a life changing and positive experience for the youth we serve,” said Boys & Girls Club of Greater New Bedford Executive Director Robert Mendes. “We thank the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation for their support and the positive impact it has on the youth of our community.” 

麻州7/8爆發歷來最大4500名醫護人員大罷工事件 7/10 仍然無解

（Boston Orange綜合編譯）麻州歷來規模最大，總人數高達4500人的醫護人員發起的一日大罷工，在7月8日爆發後，因院方和替代護士簽有5日合約，實施封鎖令，所有罷工的醫護人員得等到7 月 13 日才能重返工作崗位。

這一罷工事件，不只有布里根及婦女醫院（ Brigham and Women’s Hospital）的4000名護士，還有400 名 MGB居家服務臨床人員也從 7 月 8 日起展開為期 7 天的罷工，人數之多，震動各界。

麻州護士協會（MNA）表示，決定罷工是因為MGB(麻省總醫院和布里根婦女醫院合併後的新醫療系統， Mass General Brigham) 在薪資、醫療保險成本與永久編制人力投資上，他們認為院方過度依賴臨時與替代人力，卻未對留才與病患照護條件始終讓步有限。

Brigham 護士談判委員會成員 Kelly Morgan 也批評，院方長期把企業財務策略置於病患照護與護理人力穩定之上。

麻州州長奚莉（Maura Healey ）介入罷工事件，召集會談後表示，工會表示願意隨時重返談判桌。

醫院方強調，已提出逐年 5% 的階梯式加薪方案，並稱工會要求會把薪資與福利成本永久推高。

Brigham 發言人 Jessica Pastore 表示，替代護士的費用雖高，但屬於與罷工期間直接相關的暫時支出，和永久性調薪不能相提並論；MGB 則稱其最高優先是病患安全，Brigham 目前仍維持正常運作。

麻州政府與波士頓市府都為此事表態，支持護士爭取公平合約，呼籲雙方重回談判桌。聯邦參議員Elizabeth Warren曾趕到罷工現場支援，Ed Markey 受邀出席工會集會，麻州眾議員陳德基和波士頓市議員愛德華費連（Ed Flynn）也都現身在罷工遊行行列，支持護士們爭取權益。

截至目前，雙方仍未達成協議，後續是否能破局，仍待觀察。

The Greenway Unveils Major Park Improvements as Boston Welcomes a Historic Summer in 2026

The Greenway Unveils Major Park Improvements as Boston Welcomes a Historic Summer in 2026

New lighting, accessible pathways, and illuminated public art transform Downtown Boston park for FIFA World Cup, Sail Boston, Mass 250, and year-round programming opportunities

Lighting & Pathway Improvements Image Credit: Greenway Conservancy Staff

JULY 9, 2026 — BOSTON, MA —FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - The Massachusetts Department of Transportation, the Rose Kennedy Greenway Conservancy, and the Greenway Business Improvement District are proud to announce the successful completion of major lighting and pathway improvements across Parcels 19, 21, and 22 of The Greenway, marking a transformative new chapter for one of Downtown Boston’s most beloved public spaces.

Arriving as Boston experiences one of its most vibrant and internationally celebrated summers in recent history, these newly completed improvements enhance The Greenway as millions of visitors gather in the city for the FIFA World Cup, Sail Boston, and Mass 250 celebrations while simultaneously extending the park’s long-term capacity for year-round public programming, cultural activation, and community gathering.

"This summer is an incredible opportunity to showcase Massachusetts to the world, and we're making sure our public spaces are ready to welcome everyone," said Governor Maura Healey. "By investing in places like The Greenway, we're creating vibrant, accessible spaces where people can gather, enjoy our communities and support local businesses for years to come."

“The Greenway has become one of Boston’s most important public spaces — connecting neighborhoods, welcoming visitors, and creating opportunities for community gathering in the heart of our city,” said Representative Aaron Michlewitz, Chair of Ways and Means, Massachusetts House of Representatives. “Seeing these improvements completed during such an exciting moment for Boston ensures this park will continue serving residents and visitors alike while strengthening the downtown experience for years to come.”

The newly completed project represents a major milestone in the continued evolution of The Greenway as a modern, resilient, and accessible public space. Designed to improve long-term park operations while enhancing the visitor experience, the improvements reflect a collaborative investment in infrastructure that will support both everyday community use and Boston’s growing role as an international destination. This milestone project was made possible by an initial design study funded by the Greenway BID, which laid the critical groundwork for these infrastructure upgrades.

”MassDOT is proud to collaborate with the Greenway Conservancy, an instrumental partner in shaping the experience of Downtown Boston, creating welcoming public spaces that encourage people to spend time exploring the surrounding neighborhood,” said Interim Secretary of Transportation and MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng. “These improvements will enhance the beauty, accessibility and functionality of one of Boston’s treasured destinations while supporting the city’s ongoing growth and vitality. We encourage everyone to visit these upgraded spaces, enjoy the parks, art and programming as we all support the local businesses that help make Boston thrive. By working with the Greenway, we are helping the city shine and ensuring these public spaces remain an asset for generations to come.” 

“MassDOT is proud to support projects that strengthen the infrastructure serving residents, workers, and visitors throughout Downtown Boston,” said Undersecretary and State Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver.  “Transforming highway infrastructure into open, accessible public spaces is a nationwide aspiration, and the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway has long been the model for how to achieve that goal.  These improvements enhance accessibility, improve safety, and ensure this important public space continues to evolve and remain equipped to serve the public year-round while supporting the city during an especially significant and historic summer.”

The completed project introduces significant infrastructure upgrades designed to improve accessibility, sustainability, safety, and visitor experience across some of the park’s largest and most heavily trafficked parcels stretching from Seaport Boulevard to Dewey Square.

New permeable pathways now provide smoother, more accessible routes through the park while helping absorb stormwater and reduce flooding during inclement weather. For the first time since The Greenway opened in 2008, these well-loved and heavily trafficked pedestrian pathways will remain open and accessible throughout the winter season. The addition of new permeable surfaces will also allow for snow and ice removal that will keep these spaces available year-round, which was not possible with the stone dust composition of the last 18 years.

“The Greenway BID Board, representing the businesses along The Greenway, is proud to support the lighting and pathways project, making the park safer, more accessible, and more welcoming for everyone who visits this area,” said Stephen Faber, Chairman of the Greenway Business Improvement District. “The Greenway is already one of the region’s premier destinations, and these enhancements will help these spaces reach their full potential. We are grateful to partner with the Conservancy and MassDOT on this project, and we look forward to seeing people enjoy the park during this extraordinary summer for Boston and Massachusetts.”

In tandem with pathway improvements, the installation of new interior parcel lighting dramatically enhances evening visibility and safety, transforming these spaces into welcoming destinations after work hours and extending the ways visitors can experience the park in the evening.

 “The completion of this project fundamentally changes what is possible for us as park stewards,” said Robert Stigberg, PLA, Director of Maintenance and Capital for the Greenway Conservancy, who has worked to care for the park nearly since its inception. “For the first time, these spaces can remain active, safe, and accessible throughout every season, giving us entirely new opportunities to welcome visitors and build community in ways we simply couldn’t before. We’ve waited a long time to see these parcels come to life, and I believe these improvements will transform the way this area of the park is experienced by neighbors and visitors alike.” 

Illuminating Public Art in the Heart of Downtown Boston

One of the most visible and striking outcomes of the project is the new lighting features for the Dewey Square mural wall, where visitors can now experience Rixy’s newest mural installation, The Midnight Ride, spectacularly illuminated for evening viewing ahead of Boston’s upcoming Fourth of July celebrations.

The large-scale mural — positioned at one of the city’s busiest downtown gateways — now takes on an entirely new presence after dark, further reinforcing The Greenway’s growing role as a cultural destination where public art, history, and civic gathering intersect.

Building a More Vibrant Downtown Experience — All Year Long

In addition to upgraded infrastructure, new electrical improvements throughout these parcels now allow the Greenway Conservancy to expand programming possibilities significantly, reducing reliance on temporary generators while creating new opportunities for performances, winter events, community gatherings, and cultural programming.

As Boston celebrates an extraordinary summer filled with international tourism and landmark moments, these improvements ensure The Greenway remains a central gathering place connecting neighborhoods from Chinatown to the North End while serving residents, workers, and visitors alike.

Perhaps most significantly, the completion of these upgrades marks the beginning of something entirely new: The Greenway’s first winter season, where Parcels 19 and 21 will remain fully accessible and available for seasonal activation, programming, and community use throughout the colder months.

Creating Spaces for Gathering, Connection, and Everyday Community

Beyond critical infrastructure improvements, the completion of this project introduces thoughtful new amenities designed to transform how visitors experience some of Downtown Boston’s most beloved public spaces. In Dewey Square Plaza (Parcel 22), newly installed tables and chairs create flexible gathering spaces that invite visitors to experience The Greenway in new ways.

Whether enjoying lunch outdoors, meeting with friends or colleagues, taking in surrounding public art, or simply finding a quiet moment amid the energy of downtown Boston, these new seating areas reinforce The Greenway’s role not simply as a pathway through the city, but as a destination designed for gathering, connection, and everyday community life.

Thoughtfully designed public seating plays an important role in fostering vibrant civic life. By creating welcoming spaces where people can comfortably linger, gather spontaneously, and share everyday moments of connection, these enhancements strengthen The Greenway’s role as an inclusive public commons for residents, workers, and visitors alike.

In addition to the seating enhancements, the Conservancy has also refurbished the functional Conex storage units located throughout the park, repainting and adding multilingual wayfinding and directional signage to support the visitor experience throughout the season. Additional permanent directional signage is also planned for later this summer.

Cultivating a Living Landmark in Dewey Square

Further transforming Dewey Square into one of Boston’s most dynamic civic spaces, The Greenway is also currently partnering with internationally acclaimed topiary artist Michael P. Gibson on an extraordinary new living art installation that will become a long-term feature of the park for years to come.

Known for his extraordinary large-scale topiary sculptures and recognized internationally for advancing the art form in contemporary public spaces, Gibson carries forward a powerful artistic legacy through his close connection to legendary American topiary artist Pearl Fryar, whose groundbreaking work transformed the horticultural world and demonstrated how gardens themselves can serve as powerful expressions of creativity, identity, and community.

Currently underway in Dewey Square, the installation reflects The Greenway Conservancy’s growing commitment to pushing the boundaries of what urban public space can offer, transforming traditional park landscapes into immersive destinations that inspire curiosity, wonder, and repeat visitation from residents and travelers alike.

The installation arrives during an especially exciting period of growth for The Greenway’s horticulture program. Earlier this year, the Rose Kennedy Greenway Conservancy earned **Level I Arboretum Accreditation**, formally recognizing the organization’s commitment to professional tree stewardship and ecological excellence. With plans already underway to pursue **Level II Accreditation** in the coming months, these newest landscape additions represent another step forward in cultivating one of Boston’s most thoughtfully managed and innovative urban green spaces.

Together, these investments signal an exciting future for The Greenway — one where public art, world-class horticulture, environmental stewardship, and free public experiences work in tandem to create a downtown park that continues evolving alongside the city itself.

Growing a Greener Future for Boston’s Urban Canopy

Complementing these broader park enhancements, newly planted trees throughout Dewey Square further advance The Greenway’s long-term commitment to thoughtful urban horticulture, sustainability, and creating more welcoming green spaces in the heart of Downtown Boston. 

As these trees mature, they will provide expanded shade coverage for visitors utilizing the newly installed seating areas, creating cooler and more comfortable spaces for rest, recreation, and gathering during Boston’s warmer months. Beyond visitor comfort, these plantings support biodiversity, improve air quality, strengthen stormwater resilience, and contribute to the long-term ecological health of Boston’s urban environment. 

Together with new public seating, expanded pathways, interior parcel lighting, and upgraded infrastructure that now allows for year-round activation, these enhancements represent a major milestone in The Greenway’s continued evolution as one of Boston’s premier public destinations — a vibrant, accessible civic landscape designed to serve residents, workers, visitors, and future generations alike.

耶穌受難經典劇「荊棘」 訂10/20、21來波士頓 Boch 中心演出

     (Boston Orange編譯) 描述耶穌基督受難故事，當年被譽為「太陽馬戲團遇見《受難記》」，累計觀看人數已逾百萬，今年慶祝30週年的「荊棘（The Thorn）」，將於10月20日至21日來到麻州波士頓的博赫中心王氏劇院（Boch Center Wang Theatre）。門票已於日前開售。

    「荊棘（The Thorn）」是約翰柏林（John Bolin）創作，向一群對耶穌受難故事所知甚少、但對自身透過割傷和自殘行為而感受的痛苦卻深有體會的年輕人，傳達基督犧牲之死意義的一齣戲。

    約翰柏林（John Bolin）表示，是上帝呼召他「在書頁、舞台和螢幕上說故事」，而如今他已透過「荊棘」的電影版本完成這項任務。他的著作包括小說「伊甸計劃（The Eden Project），」以及基督徒成長指南「如此深愛（So Loved）」、「天堂的兩扇門（The Two Doors of Heaven）」和「無限生命（Life Unlimited）」。

    約翰的妻子莎拉·博林（Sarah Bolin）協助創作了這齣戲，並擔任製作人，負責管理該劇的全國巡演劇團。當被問及為何長年參與巡演和《荊棘》時，莎拉說：「上帝要我們信靠他、張開雙手，而他應許要成就美麗的事。」多年來，莎拉親眼見證上帝在觀眾和劇組成員當中以具體的方式動工。

    過去30年來，一度被譽為「太陽馬戲團遇見《受難記》」的這齣戲不斷演變，是一齣巧妙融合戲劇、音樂、舞蹈、武術、空中雜技、情感充沛的表演，以超越時代的心靈視角來演繹從創世延伸至初期教會的建立，由「耶穌所愛的門徒」聖約翰來回顧他與耶穌之間許多令人驚奇的相遇。約翰柏林表示，「這是一個充滿愛、犧牲、屬靈爭戰和救贖的故事」。

    這齣戲將於2026年秋季重演，在九月和十月間舉辦23場演出，其中的10月20日至21日，在波士頓的博赫中心王劇院（Boch Center Wang Theatre）演出。

    門票已從6月26日起開售，購票可上網thethorn.com/tickets，欲了解更多《荊棘》資訊，請造訪 TheThorn.com。

2026秋季巡演日期及地點

• 俄亥俄州辛辛那提 | 阿羅諾夫藝術中心 | 9月11日與12日
• 印第安納州印第安納波利斯 | 克勞斯紀念廳 | 9月14日與15日
• 密蘇里州聖路易斯 | 史蒂菲爾劇院 | 9月18日與19日
• 愛荷華州錫達拉皮茲 | 派拉蒙劇院 | 9月22日與23日
• 威斯康辛州密爾瓦基 | 米勒高生活劇院 | 9月25日
• 內布拉斯加州奧馬哈 | 奧菲姆劇院 | 9月29日與30日
• 明尼蘇達州明尼亞波利斯 | 奧菲姆劇院 | 10月2日與3日
• 伊利諾州羅克福德 | 科羅納多劇院 | 10月6日與7日
• 密西根州底特律 | 福克斯劇院 | 10月9日與10日
• 賓州匹茲堡 | 彼得森活動中心 | 10月13日
• 俄亥俄州克里夫蘭 | 基銀行國家劇院 | 10月16日與17日
• 麻薩諸塞州波士頓 | 博赫中心王劇院 | 10月20日與21日

Governor Maura Healey Statement on Trump Administration’s Denial of Disaster Relief Request

Governor Maura Healey Statement on Trump Administration’s Denial of Disaster Relief Request 

  

BOSTON - Governor Maura Healey today issued the following statement in response to President Trump's decision to deny Massachusetts' request for a Major Disaster Declaration following the severe winter storm that impacted communities across the state earlier this year: 

 

"Massachusetts experienced one of the worst winter storms we've seen in decades. Our first responders, public works crews and local communities worked around the clock to keep people safe and begin recovery. They did their job, and now President Trump needs to do his. 

 

"I'm deeply disappointed by his decision to deny disaster assistance for Massachusetts. When communities are recovering from extraordinary disasters, the President should be focused on helping people—not turning his back on states that need support. We intend to appeal, and we'll keep fighting to secure every federal dollar Massachusetts deserves." 

 

Earlier this year, Massachusetts requested a Major Disaster Declaration from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) following one of the most significant winter storms to impact the state in decades. The declaration would provide federal assistance to help eligible communities recover from the storm's impacts.