Healey-Driscoll Administration Invests $4.1 Million for No-cost Workforce Training and Education

Healey-Driscoll Administration Invests $4.1 Million for No-cost Workforce Training and Education  EVERETT – The Healey-Driscoll Administration today announced that they are awarding $4.1 million to 12 adult education organizations to support the organizations’ work helping adults enroll in college or find employment in high-growth industries. The funding will be used to provide training, education and wrap-around services to approximately 700 adults to help them pursue jobs such as medical interpreters, certified nursing assistants and community health care workers.     “This investment reflects Massachusetts’ deep commitment to expanding access to high-quality training programs that equip people with the skills and credentials they need to enter growing industries, advance their careers and support their families,” said Governor Maura Healey.  “Adult education students are some of the hardest working people in Massachusetts, and this initiative is designed to help improve the programs that serve them,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll.   “Adult learners strengthen both our communities and our economy,” said Education Secretary Dr. Patrick Tutwiler. “Adult and Community Learning Services has long built bridges between classroom and career, and this investment is a clear display that workforce readiness remains a priority.”  “Educational organizations, like today’s awardees, play an important role in our efforts to attract, retain, and develop talent by expanding access to the training and skills our workers need,” said Labor and Workforce Development Secretary Lauren Jones. “These grants highlight the collaborative effort between the state, employers, workforce training providers, and academic partners to improve employment outcomes, deliver a more equitable workforce, and strengthen the state’s economic competitiveness.”   “We are proud to invest in innovative models that meet the needs of adult learners and the evolving demands of Massachusetts employers,” said Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Pedro Martinez. “The addition of Fair Share funds will help more residents gain access to life-changing opportunities for economic advancement.”  “As we work to meet the growing demand for health care services, investments like this are essential,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano of Quincy. “Supporting adult education programs that prepare residents in Quincy and the surrounding area for careers in health care creates pathways to economic stability and strengthens the system of care that serves families across our community. The House was proud to support this funding and thanks the Healey-Driscoll Administration for its partnership in strengthening our workforce.”  This funding expands the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s (DESE) Pay for Performance initiative from five to twelve adult education programs. Pay for Performance, an innovative funding model, is designed to compensate providers based on measurable outcomes in employment, college enrollment, or industry-recognized credentials. The funding comes from a combination of the fiscal year 2026 state budget and Fair Share supplemental budget.   “These grants will enable many more adults to receive critical workforce training and support services to continue their education and find jobs in high-demand fields,” said Senator Jason Lewis, Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Education. “Investing in adult education helps employers to find qualified employees and helps residents to build their careers and support their families.”  “This investment in education and workforce training supports both our adult students and our employers,” said Representative Ken Gordon, House Chair of the Joint Committee on Education. “It helps individuals advance their careers while strengthening our workforce in high-demand industries.”  “I'm deeply grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for its sustained investment in career-connected learning programs, which open doors for thousands of students to gain real-world experience, earn college credit, and prepare for meaningful careers,” said Senator Jo Comerford, Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Higher Education. “Higher education is both an equity and economic engine for the Commonwealth, and these programs strengthen our workforce, our people, and our economy.”  "Investing in adult learners is investing in the backbone of our workforce," said Senator Jake Oliveira, Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Labor and Workforce Development. "These programs open doors for residents who are eager to build new skills, enter high-demand fields, and secure good-paying jobs. By connecting education to real career opportunities, we're not just strengthening our workforce, we're empowering families and communities across the Commonwealth."  “Investing in adult education and workforce training is one of the most effective ways the Commonwealth can strengthen the economy and expand opportunity,” said Representative Paul McMurtry, House Chair of the Joint Committee on Labor and Workforce Development. “These programs open doors for adults to gain the skills for high-demand industries while helping employers meet their growing workforce needs.”  The recipients are as follows:   Boston Education, Skills and Training Program: $67,500  Services: Hospitality (pipeline to unionized hotel employment)  Cape Cod Community College: $398,000  Services: Certified Nursing Assistant and Medical Interpreter  Catholic Charities (El Centro): $370,000  Services: College Preparation (pipeline to Franklin Cummings Tech biotechnology degree program and internship)  City of Quincy - Quincy College: $193,500  Services: Community Healthcare Worker  Greenfield Community College: $180,000  Services: Certified Nursing Assistant  Holyoke Community College: $766,000  Services: Internationally Trained Professionals Program, Culinary (ServSafe Managers), Certified Nursing Assistant, and Workforce and College Preparation   Jewish Vocational Services: $1,000,500  Services: Healthcare (Certified Pharmacy Technician, Certified Sterile Processing; Certified Nursing Assistant), Workforce Readiness, and Bridges to College  Jewish Vocational Services: $500,000  Services: Bridges to College  Julie's Family Learning Program: $86,500  Services: Workforce and College Readiness  More Than Words: $100,000  Services: Workforce and College Readiness  Mujeres Unidas Avanzando: $205,000  Services: Certified Medical Assistant and Home Health Aid  The Notre Dame Education Center - Lawrence: $85,000  Services: Adult Education English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Teacher Training  YMCA of Greater Boston: $150,000  Services: Workforce and College Readiness

柯普利廣場聖誕樹12/1亮燈

 CITY OF BOSTON TO HOST COPLEY SQUARE TREE LIGHTING AND GRAND RE-OPENING OF COPLEY SQUARE PARK ON DECEMBER 1

The Boston Parks and Recreation Department will host the annual Copley Square Tree Lighting from 4:00-6:00 p.m. on Monday, December 1, presented in partnership with the Friends of Copley Square, Sasaki, BXP, Encore Global, and Fairmont Copley Plaza. This year’s celebration will also mark the grand reopening of the newly improved Copley Square Park, welcoming residents and visitors back to one of Boston’s most iconic public spaces.

The celebration will feature appearances by Santa Claus and Rudolph, along with an exciting lineup of holiday entertainment, including performances by the Boston Children’s Chorus, Emerson College’s soulful a cappella group Symphonic, and Joelle James, Grammy Award–winning songwriter and Berklee College alum. 

Visitors can also enjoy holiday arts and crafts led by local artists. After the event attendees are invited to enjoy cookies and pictures with Santa in the Fairmont Copley Plaza. In addition to seasonal festivities, Sasaki will be on site from 4-5 p.m. offering guided tours of the newly renovated park. This free event is made possible with support from Drake’s Cakes. 

The City of Boston celebrates the lighting of Boston’s official 2025 Christmas tree from Nova Scotia on Boston Common on Thursday, December 4, beginning at 6 p.m. This year’s tree is a 45-foot-tall white spruce donated by Ronald and Claire Feener of Lunenburg County, Nova Scotia.  The celebration will be immediately followed by the lighting of the trees on Commonwealth Avenue Mall at Arlington Street and Commonwealth Avenue at 8:15 p.m.

Visit boston.gov/holidaylights for more information about the season’s festivities. To stay up to date with news, events, and improvements in Boston parks visit boston.gov/parks, call (617) 635-4505, join our email list, and follow our social channels @bostonparksdept on X, Facebook, Instagram, and @parks.boston.gov on Bluesky.

BU台灣學生會和台學聯攜手感恩節聚餐 台北市長蔣萬安遙送祝福

波士頓大學台灣同學會共會長黃景軒、葉宇愷和新英格蘭台灣同學會聯合會
會長李典璋合作舉辦感恩節餐會。（周菊子攝）

             （Boston Orange周菊子麻州劍橋市報導）波士頓大學台灣學生會(BUTSA)和新英格蘭台灣同學會聯合會（FTSANE）合作，11月22日在哈佛大學Lehman Hall舉辦感恩節餐會，70多名各院校學生，吃美食，玩遊戲，抽大獎，玩得不亦樂乎，最特別的是竟播了一段台北市長蔣萬安的祝福視頻。

波士頓大學台灣學生會主辦的感恩節餐會有70多來自各校同學參加。（周菊子攝）

            波士頓大學台灣學生會會長，主修電腦科學的葉宇愷表示，感恩節其實是個西方的節日，但來自台灣的學生們正好趁此時機，體會，了解西方感恩節的意義與氣氛。例如他十分感恩哈佛大學台灣學生會會長暨新英格蘭台灣同學會聯合會會長李典璋的大力支持這「感恩節聚餐」活動。

波士頓大學同學會會長葉宇愷表示辦感恩節餐會，讓同學們熟悉一下西方節日。
（周菊子攝）

            在新英格蘭地區各大專院校中，若以來自台灣學生人數計，波士頓大學多年來不是第一，就是第二。只是受新冠病毒疫情影響，該校台灣學生會一度形同解散，今年9月前，才成功重組。葉宇愷希望今後能和台學聯，以及其他各校合作，提供更多交流機會。讓同學們在海外也感覺溫暖。

新英格蘭台學聯會長李典璋表示，12月將辦聖誕節餐會。（周菊子攝）

            葉宇愷另外透露，鑑於波士頓大學座落在波士頓市內，而波士頓市和台北市早在1996年就簽訂為姊妹市，所以他特地委託在台灣的朋友，向蔣萬安市長邀約祝福。他個人對蔣萬安市長能夠撥冗，為波士頓學子製作這段視頻，感謝十分，也讚許蔣萬安市長在祝語中的勉勵同學們人在海外，不僅代表自己，也代表台灣，同學們的努力與成就，可以讓世界看到充滿自信，勇敢與任性的台灣小孩。

            根據波士頓大學校方國際學生學者辦公室的2023年統計，該校共有來自145個國家及地區的12853名國際學生及學者，其中依序來自中國，印度，南韓及台灣的人數最多。2020年的統計顯示，有277名國際學生來自台灣，2023年也大約有279人。

波士頓大學幹部主持節目。（周菊子攝）

            波士頓大學的這場感恩餐會，只安排了用餐和猜謎，抽獎等活動，但同學們喝著「飯糰外賣」贊助的珍珠奶茶，小點心，吃著從2名布朗大學MBA新鮮畢業生所創辦「Chop Chop Eats」訂來的私廚菜餚，以及每桌一隻，從店舖買回來，用旋轉烤肉架製作的烤雞（rotisserie），圍桌而聚的熱絡尬聊，競猜謎題，看誰抽中Owala水壺，JBL耳機，一輛腳踏車等獎品。

            李典璋在應邀致詞時表示，哈佛大學台灣學生會年底將改選幹部，歡迎有興趣為同學服務者報名參選。新英格蘭台灣同學會聯誼會預訂12月22日舉辦聖誕節聚餐活動，讓聖誕節期間留在波士頓，沒有回家的同學們，也有機會感受熱鬧的節日氣氛。

台北市長蔣萬安應邀為波士頓大學同學們錄製了一段祝福視頻。（周菊子攝）

布朗大學MBA的沈俊熹（左）和余劭羱（右），3個多月前才正式推出
“Chop chop Eats"這私廚菜訂購，運送平台，如今已有25名私廚供老饕訂菜。
（周菊子攝）  

麻州州長Healey譴責美國疾病管制中心網站訊息不實

           （Boston Orange編譯）麻州州長奚莉（Maura Healey）今（24）日發表聲明，強烈譴責美國疾病管制與預防中心（CDC）經衛生及公共服務部部長小羅伯特·F·甘迺迪（Robert F. Kennedy Jr.）指示，在網站上增添加關於疫苗與自閉症之間存在關聯的不實資訊。

奚莉州長指出，CDC此舉是破壞公共衛生基礎，令人深感不安與悲傷。她批評這是意識形態凌駕於科學與數據之上的危險之舉。她強調，「科學是真實的：疫苗是安全、有效和救命的」，數十年的科學研究和壓倒性證據均表明疫苗與自閉症之間沒有關聯。她認為散播謊言和質疑已證實的科學，對公眾健康構成嚴重威脅，她還舉例列出CDC近期發佈的其他誤導性資訊，包括關於懷孕期間使用泰諾的錯誤說法、新冠疫苗建議的無根據轉變，以及飲用水中氟化物的謊言。

奚莉州長與公共衛生局局長羅比·戈德斯坦（Robbie Goldstein）博士堅決拒絕聯邦網站上的錯誤資訊。她建議麻州居民對這些內容保持警惕，並鼓勵他們依賴麻州公共衛生部（DPH）等州級來源所提供的誠實、循證且值得信賴的健康資訊。麻州政府將繼續以可靠的科學和醫學專家的專業知識為指導。

Governor Healey Condemns Federal Misinformation about Vaccines and Autism 

“The science is real: Vaccines are safe, effective and lifesaving" 

BOSTON – Governor Maura Healey issued the following statement regarding the CDC adding inaccurate claims about links between vaccines and autism on its website at the direction of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. 

“It is disturbing and sad to witness the federal government undermining the very foundation of public health based on conspiracy theories and false information. But that's what’s been happening. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – once the world’s foremost source of evidence-driven public health guidance – has taken another step down a dangerous path shaped by ideology rather than science and data.  

“The posting last week on CDC’s website – at the direction of Secretary Kennedy – insinuating a link between vaccines and autism is the latest troubling installment. This claim is wrong and directly contradicts to decades of scientific research involving millions of people.  

“The science is unequivocal, and the evidence is overwhelming: there is no connection between vaccines and autism. Vaccines are safe, effective and lifesaving. They are the backbone of modern disease prevention and the well-being of our communities. Putting false information out there puts people at real risk. Parents need honest, accurate information that will give their kids the best start in life and keep them healthy and safe.    

“Claims that spread lies and cast doubt on proven science pose a serious threat to that health and safety. We have seen this before. In recent months, the CDC has issued guidance and promoted information that is baseless and misleading. This includes false claims about the dangers of Tylenol during pregnancy, unsupported shifts in COVID-19 vaccination recommendations, lies about the safety and effectiveness of fluoride in drinking water and deliberate efforts to remove or suppress vital information because it conflicts with the opinions of the Secretary.  

“Massachusetts is home to some of the best health care, the strongest public health system, and the most groundbreaking biomedical research in the world. That is why today, I stand firmly with Public Health Commissioner Dr. Robbie Goldstein and our Department of Public Health in rejecting in the strongest possible terms the misinformation now appearing on federal websites – including CDC’s. We advise Massachusetts residents to approach this content with caution because we no longer feel confident in or comfortable with the quality and accuracy of the information. Instead, we encourage Bay Staters to rely on health information provided by DPH and other state sources that are honest, evidence-based, and worthy of the public’s trust. Our residents deserve nothing less.    

“We will continue to be guided by reliable science and by the expertise of those on the front lines of medicine and public health. And we reject false claims that are rooted in ideology rather than evidence.”  

惹對寺首名洋住持Nicholas Vreeland訪劍橋慈濟分享達賴喇嘛超越宗教理念

頗具傳奇色彩的藏傳佛教僧人Nicholas Vreeland，在慈濟劍橋外展中心弘揚佛教精神。
（周菊子攝）

             （Boston Orange 周菊子麻州劍橋市綜合報導）波士頓慈濟劍橋外展中心11月21日舉辦讀書暨座談聚會，邀最古老藏傳佛教惹對寺（Rato Dratsang）首名洋主持Nicholas Vreeland，闡述第14世達賴喇嘛所撰的「超越宗教：全世界的倫理」一書，談到輪迴轉世，強調佛教利他精神。

慈濟劍橋外展專員喬琥（右）獻哈達，送感謝狀給Nicholas Vreeland。（周菊子攝）

慈濟波士頓負責人長金滿（左三）等人感謝Nicholas Vreeland和麻州麥德福市Kurukula中心
具格西資格的常駐教師Geshe Ngawang Tenley。(周菊子攝）

            Nicholas Vreeland是一名頗具傳奇色彩的藏傳佛教僧人，1954年在瑞士出生，父母是美國外交官，祖母曾是知名時尚雜誌Vogue的主編Diana Vreeland。他自己13歲開始學攝影，成為了紐約時尚圈攝影名人，但他卻剃度出家，學習藏傳佛教13年，1998年通過“格西（Geshe）”考試，取得藏傳佛教格魯派中有如佛學博士，得以出任住持，以及作為佛學導師的資格。他從1999年迄今，擔任紐約的西藏中心主任，兼管在新澤西州（South Orange）的閉關中心，同時在2012到2016年間，經達賴喇嘛欽點為惹對寺（Rato Dratsang）住持，成為作為密宗學院，培養西藏政治和宗教最高指導者的這南印度寺院最高行政及宗教、管理機構有史以來的第一位西方人住持。

部分出席者合影。(周菊子攝）

Nicholas Vreeland應邀到慈濟劍橋外展中心交流佛學。（周菊子攝）

            今年（2025）7月，他回到印度北部的達蘭薩拉（Dharamsala），參加第14達賴喇嘛的90歲生日之後，依循藏人行政中央和其他組織把達賴喇嘛 90 歲壽辰年定為「慈悲年」的倡議，鼓勵信眾推廣達賴喇嘛所倡導的普世價值、慈悲心和跨信仰和諧。9月，他也到台灣的台北，秀水，鹿港等地，做藝術，文化，佛教的訪問交流。

            自從卸任惹對寺住持後，Nicholas Vreeland的工作重心轉移回紐約西藏中心，但他仍是惹對寺的終身導師和顧問，因此長年來回兩地，同時經常應邀到世界各地演講，教導佛學，辦攝影展，擴大弘法。

            這也是Nicholas Vreeland這次接受慈濟劍橋外展中心邀約，辦讀書會的原因，藉以推廣第14世達賴喇嘛在2011年出版的「超越宗教：全世界的倫理（Beyond Religion：Ethics for a Whole World）」一書，強調佛教修練自我，弘揚利他的精神，探討達賴喇嘛所主張，真正的道德基礎植根於人類追求幸福，避免痛苦的本能，以及包含慈悲、關懷與互相理解等人性特質的「基本人類價值」。

            Nicholas Vreeland在回答出席者提問時還表示，他認為儘管所有宗教在“利他”上或有共同處，基督教和佛教的最大區別之一是基督教有神的存在，而佛教則強調人人都可自我修練成佛。

            由於第14世達賴今年已高齡90，藏傳佛教又有靈童轉世這傳統，席間有人探問了達賴喇嘛有沒透露過未來轉世的消息。不過達賴喇嘛近年曾數度公開表示過自己身體很好，甚至可能活到113歲，將來的轉世者一定會出生在自由世界。

            21日的這場聚會由慈濟劍橋外展中心外展專員喬琥主持。慈濟波士頓聯絡處負責人長金滿，負責劍橋外展中心活動的陳筠媞、宋永麒和香積組的金花師姐等人特地準備了蘿蔔糕，炒米粉，藍莓，香瓜等美食，招待出席者和講者。活動結束時，喬琥還向Nicholas Vreeland獻“哈達”，以表尊敬及祝福。

            大波士頓和西藏人，以及藏傳佛教其實頗有淵源。第14世達賴喇嘛本人在1979到2014年間曾6度訪問波士頓，2011年他決定政教分離，辭去所有政治職務後，西藏流亡政府產生了第一位完全民選的首席噶倫（Kalon Tripa，後更名為司政 Sikyong）。哈佛大學法學博士洛桑森格（Lobsang Sangay）在2任10年，依法不得再次連任司政後，回到哈佛大學法學院擔任資深訪問學者。大波士頓地區從1965年之後開始有藏人定居，根據波士頓藏人協會（TAB）數據，大波士頓約有600名西藏人。（更新版）

愛潑斯坦案持續發酵 哈佛學生要求學校撤銷前校長Larry Summers的終身教職

哈佛大學前校長薩默斯（Larry Summers）>
(圖片來自網路）

             （Boston Orange編譯）哈佛大學前校長薩默斯（Larry Summers）和性侵犯愛潑斯坦（Jeffrey Epstein）曾長期保持聯繫的醜聞，引發各界沸沸揚揚議論，導致他辭去所有職務，打算只當哈佛教授之際，一些哈佛學生站出來要求哈佛校方取消薩默斯的終身教職。

            薩默斯上週說，在哈佛校方調查他和已辭世的愛潑斯坦之間關係時，他立即卸任教職。哈佛校方是在一個美國國會議員委員會所公佈的電子郵件，顯示這2人直到2019年愛潑斯坦被捕前一直互通訊息後，開始調查。薩默斯已經說他後悔曾經這樣通信。

            現在，哈佛校園內有些人說，學校應該更近一步的讓薩默斯永遠的遠離學生。

            組織者說，哈佛校園內現在流傳一份，包括和哈佛有關或無關，有數百人簽名的請願書，把薩默斯形容為“在哈佛教書是不適任，也不安全”，要求學校取消他的終身教授資格，並對被發現和愛潑斯坦有實質接觸的任何其他人，做同樣懲處。

            散發請願書的 “哈佛女性主義者聯盟（Harvard Feminist Coalition）”的一名成員暨學生說，“我們真的很高興贏了，讓薩默斯下台”，“但這當然還不夠”。

金刻羽。（圖片來自網路）

            薩默斯從1983年起在哈佛任教，曾於2001年至2006年擔任哈佛校長，離職前還是哈佛甘迺迪政府學院Mossavar-Rahmani企業和政府中心的主任。撤銷終身教職，將是對這位有影響力的經濟學家的一個震撼譴責。

            撤銷終身教職也會是哈佛幾乎從未採取過的行動。

            今年稍早前，哈佛商學院道德教授Francesca Gino被控在學術論文中捏造數據，哈佛大學因此撤銷了她的終身教職。Francesca Gino否認這些指控。

            一名哈佛大學發言人在5月時表示，這是該校近幾十年來第一次這麼做。根據哈佛校報大概從1940年以來，就沒有其他的教授曾失去終身教職。

            最近公佈的電子郵件讓人對薩默斯和愛潑斯坦之間同志情誼的程度之深，有了新見解。在薩默斯和愛潑斯坦的交流中，薩默斯為了和一名“門生”的浪漫關係，向愛潑斯坦徵求意見。他也到愛潑斯坦在加勒比海擁有的一個小島旅行了幾次，其中一次是他和他太太2005年到那兒度蜜月。

            包括報章，Youtube等許多媒體，已爭相報導，薩默斯是為了追求中國前財長的女兒，目前在倫敦政經學院任教的金刻羽，向愛潑斯坦取經

            愛潑斯坦還為薩默斯的太太促成一筆款項，來擴大她的學術研究，這不包括在哈佛大學關於愛潑斯坦和該校長達20年關係，為該校及教職員捐款數百萬元的2020年報告。

終身教職是許多大學教授追求的崇高榮譽，因為它賦予持有人極高的地位，通常能確保他們能在機構中任職直到他們想要的時間。

根據網路上的哈佛大學手冊，終身教職是「保留給在研究、教學、指導、輔導及服務/公民意識方面表現卓越，並有能力對其系所做出重大且持久貢獻的一等傑出學者」的一種榮譽，通常能確保獲得資格者在所工作科系保留教職，一直待到他們希望待的時候為止？。

            在薩默斯卸任教職前，上星期他說自己會從美國進步中心和Open AI的董事會等公職上卸任。

            最近薩默斯飽受外界嚴厲批評，包括美國聯邦參議員，也是哈佛大學前任法學院教授的Elizabeth Warren上週說，這顯示了薩默斯不可信任。“

紐英崙余風采堂公佈新屆幹部 余雅倫、余立昌連任主席正副互調

             (Boston Orange)紐英崙余風采堂11月23日宣佈2026年度職員選舉結果，余雅倫、余立昌連任主席，正副互調。新屆職員將於12月7日中午在波士頓華埠乞臣街（Hudson）11號就任。

            紐英崙余風采堂新屆職員選舉結果為，中文書記美玲，逸文，英文書記紹強、錫榮，財政美媚、潔芳，核數宗濤夫人，康樂瑞蘭，樓業主任宗濤，交際佩英，厚利夫人，出席中華代表立昌、積堯，婦女組主任艷玲、艷清，婦女組書記寶玉。

            經指定出任的職位有餘文博及余達明法律顧問，幹是寶愛，網站主任藹欣。

4機構 11/22 在華盛頓街2號“火炬之光”舉辦免費火雞宴

          （Boston Orange編譯）—四家位於波士頓的機構將於11月22日（星期六）早上11點至下午2點，在多切斯特（Dorchester）華盛頓街2號的”火炬之光康復中心( Torchlight Recovery)”聯合舉辦「火雞盛宴」免費贈送活動。

         帳篷城市租戶協會（Tent City Tenant Association），南端早午餐俱樂部（The South End Brunch Club ，簡稱ISEBC) ，以及市區熱(Urban Heat) 98.1 等4家機構將和“火炬之光康復中心”合作，免費供應火雞及配菜、健康食品、資源和宣傳品。

         南端早午餐俱樂部（TSEBC）的創始人兼首席執行官希瑟庫克（Heather Cook）說，「服務社群最有意義的方式是與那些紮根基層的領導者合作。這次舉辦火雞盛宴免費贈送活動是為取替原定11月舉行的梅爾·金（Mel King）每月早午餐會。

         火炬之光“執行主任蘭迪·穆罕默德（Randy Muhammad）說，「隨著節日的臨近，我們意識到，對於社區中的許多家庭來說，每年的這個時候都格外艱難。火炬之光康復中心很榮幸能夠舉辦今年的火雞捐贈活動，為那些正在掙扎的人們提供支持、希望和團結的力量。」為大波士頓地區有色人種社區提供富有同情心、高品質且個性化的同伴互助康復服務。

         除了可以在 Eventbrite 上預訂的火雞大餐外，本次贈送活動還將有 98.1 Urban Heat 電台的報道、社區表彰、熱可可吧以及人們迫切需要的社區資源。

 

 

TENT CITY TENANT ASSOCIATION, THE SOUTH END BRUNCH CLUB, TORCH LIGHT RECOVERY, URBAN HEAT 98.1 RADIO STATION TO HOLD HOLIDAY TURKEY FEAST GIVEAWAY FOR 100

FAMILIES IN NEED IN DORCHESTER, MA ON SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2025

 

(BOSTON) - Four Boston-based organizations are combining their efforts to host a Holiday Turkey Feast Giveaway on Saturday, November 22, 2025 at lorchlight Recovery, 2 Washington Street, Dorchester. Tent City Tenant Association, The South End Brunch Club (ISEBC) and Urban Heat 98.1 will join Torchlight Recovery to provide a free turkey and trimmings, healthy foods, resources and promotional items.

"The most purposeful way to serve our community is in collaboration with intentional leaders who are engaged on a grassroot level." said Heather Cook,Founder and CEO of the TSEBC who is hosting the Turkey Feast Giveaway in lieu of their November Mel King Monthly Brunch.

 

"As we enter the holiday season, we are reminded that this time of year can be especially difficult for many families in our community. At Torch Light Recovery, we are honored to host this year's Turkey Drive to offer support, hope, and a sense of togetherness to those who are struggling." said Minister Randy Muhammad, Executive Director of Torch Light, who provides compassionate, high-quality, and individualized peer recovery support services for the BIPOC community across Greater Boston.

In addition to the turkey meals, which can be reserved on Eventbrite, the giveaway will feature radio coverage from 98.1 Urban Heat, community recognition, hot cocoa bar, and much needed community resources.

麻州贏得1.057億元聯邦經費改善全州的巴士營運

(Boston Orange編譯) 麻州政府和代表麻州的國會議員團隊，11月21日聯袂宣佈喜訊，麻州5個區域交通管理局（RTAs），以及麻州地鐵局（MBTA）共贏得1.057億元聯邦經費，用於改善巴士車隊和相關設施。

這筆經費來自聯邦交通管理局 (FTA) 的低排放或零排放補助計劃以及公共汽車和公共汽車設施計劃，將支持購買零或低排放巴士，升級設施。

MBTA獲得的補助額最高，7860萬美元，將用於增加採購混合動力車輛，為實現在 2040 年前全面零排放這目標，提供助力。

麻州東北部的Merrimack Valley (MeVa) 和 Lowell (LRTA) 各獲得 720 萬美元，用於採購新型混合動力電動巴士，以提升服務的可靠性，減少社區空氣污染。

麻州西部的Berkshire 區域交通管理局(BRTA) 獲得 540 萬美元，用於採購先進的混合動力電動車，以實現純電動行駛時間達到 50%目標，淨化山區環境。

在這次的撥款中，麻州還獲得大約740 萬美元的「巴士與巴士設施計畫」經費，用於強化基礎設施。其中的450萬美元撥給先鋒谷（Pioneer Valley ，簡稱PVTA) ，用於全面翻新北安普頓巴士車庫，升級這地區的維護設施，包括更換關鍵的巴士升降機，確保技術人員可以在更安全、更高效的環境中維修車輛，從而保障服務不會因設備故障而中斷。BRTA 獲得 300 萬美元用於預防性維護和設施設備。

麻州代理交通廳廳長伍偉華（ Phillip Eng） 強調，贏得這筆競爭性補助金是麻州政府和各區域交通管理局的共同努力結果。麻州州長奚莉（ Maura Healey） 表示，這筆經費為麻州人民提供了他們應得到的服務。

代表麻州的聯邦議員們，包括參議員Edward J. Markey，眾議院民主黨黨鞭Katherine Clark，以及眾議員Jim McGovern，Lori Trahan，Ayanna Pressley等人，都稱許這筆經費將可改善麻州居民得到的交通服務。

Massachusetts Wins Over $105 Million in Federal Funding for New Buses Across State 

Grant awards going to the MBTA, Merrimack Valley Transit Authority, Lowell Regional Transit Authority, Pioneer Valley Transit Authority, and Berkshire Regional Transit Authority  

BOSTON- The Healey-Driscoll Administration and Massachusetts Congressional delegation today celebrated that five Regional Transit Authorities (RTAs) and the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) have won $105.7 million in federal funding to modernize their bus fleets and facilities. The funding from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA)’s Low or No Emissions Grant Program and the Buses and Bus Facilities Program will support the purchase of zero and low-emission buses and upgrades to facilities.     

 

The awarded grants are going to the MBTA, Merrimack Valley Transit Authority (MeVa), Lowell Regional Transit Authority (LRTA), Pioneer Valley Transit Authority (PVTA), and Berkshire Regional Transit Authority (BRTA).  

 

“Low and no emission buses deliver smoother rides, lower costs and healthier air,” said Governor Maura Healey. “These funds will help regional transit authorities across the state purchase new buses and deliver the service that the people of Massachusetts deserve. I’m grateful for the team at MassDOT, the MBTA and our regional transit authorities, as well as for Senators Warren and Markey and our Congressional delegation for their strong leadership to secure this funding.”  

“With these awards, communities from the Berkshires to Boston will be able to modernize their bus fleets and keep their infrastructure in a state of good repair so people can affordably and reliably get to work, school, medical appointments, and recreational opportunities,” said Senator Edward J. Markey. “I’m grateful to Governor Healey, Senator Warren, our federal congressional delegation, and our local partners for our work to make this funding a reality. We’re on the road to better and more reliable bus service.”   

“Reliable, affordable public transit is a lifeline for families in Central and Western Massachusetts,” said Representative Jim McGovern (MA-02). “This federal investment will help our regional transit authorities replace aging buses, cut harmful emissions, and keep riders safe and moving. It means better service for workers, students, and seniors who depend on public transportation every single day. I’m grateful to Senators Markey and Warren, Governor Healey, and all our partners who worked to secure these funds. Together, we’re delivering real improvements that strengthen our communities and support a cleaner, more sustainable future for our commonwealth.” 

  

“There’s been no shortage of political divisiveness and chaos in Washington lately, but my focus remains where it’s always been – on delivering for the hardworking families I represent,” said Representative Lori Trahan (MA-03).“That means fighting for investments that make daily life more affordable and more efficient for folks across our entire district. With these federal investments, our families, workers, and students will have access to new LRTA and MEVA buses that will help reduce costs for riders, improve reliability, and make it easier for families to get where they need to go.” 

  

“Massachusetts is leading the way toward the healthier, more affordable future that working families deserve. This transformative investment in clean buses is the latest win in Democrats' fight for faster, easier, and more sustainable commutes. I'm proud to be working alongside Governor Healey and our state leaders to strengthen the Commonwealth's public transit, and I look forward to seeing these dollars put to work,” said Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (MA-05). 

  

  

“Massachusetts is leading the nation in building a cleaner and more reliable public transit system, and this investment will lead to more reliable service, lower emissions, and a transit system that connects more people to jobs, schools, and opportunity. I’ll continue to work to bring more federal resources to Massachusetts to deliver real progress for riders across Massachusetts,” said Representative Seth Moulton (MA-06). 

  

“Transit justice is an economic, climate, and racial justice issue, and our policies and budgets must reflect that. These meaningful federal investments will help make our transportation infrastructure more safe and sustainable while connecting folks in the Massachusetts 7th and beyond to essential resources like jobs, schools, healthcare, and the grocery store,” said Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Co-Chair of the Future of Transportation Caucus. “I’ll keep pushing to invest in public transit as the public good that it is.” 

 

The projects that received grant funding include: 

 

Low or No Emission Grant Program Awards (Total: $98,381,757) 

This program provides funding for the purchase or lease of zero- and low-emission transit buses, as well as supporting facilities. The majority of the funding was awarded through this program: 

• Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA): $78.6 million for the Enhanced Hybrid (EEH) Bus Procurement. This furthers the MBTA’s goal to fully transition to a zero-emission fleet by 2040, by maintaining the diesel-electric hybrid fleet in a state of good repair while modernization initiatives are underway 
• Merrimack Valley Transit Authority (MeVa): $7.2 million to support the continued modernization and expansion of MeVa’s fleet, including the addition of six expansion 40-foot hybrid electric vehicles. 
• Lowell Regional Transit Authority (LRTA): $7.2 million to modernize the fleet, including the procurement of six fully accessible Gillig 35FT Hybrid-Electric Heavy-Duty Low-Floor Fixed Route Buses to replace six 2016 diesel buses. 
• Berkshire Regional Transit Authority (BRTA): $5.4 million to replace four 35-foot vintage 2018 Gillig Diesel heavy-duty buses with four 40-foot Gillig Low Floor Hybrid Electric heavy-duty transit vehicles. This next-generation electric hybrid system allows BRTA to achieve pure electric propulsion for up to 50% EV time during daily operation. 

 

Buses & Bus Facilities Program Awards (Total: $7,475,955) 

This program funds capital projects to purchase, rehabilitate, or lease buses and related equipment, and to construct, purchase, rehabilitate, or lease bus-related facilities. 

• Pioneer Valley Transit Authority (PVTA): $4.5 million for a Northampton Transit Bus Garage Renovation. The planned renovation will update the entire bus maintenance area, including the replacement of three existing in-ground bus lifts, which will improve the ability to maintain buses and increase employee safety. 
• Berkshire Regional Transit Authority (BRTA): $3 million for Preventive Maintenance and Facility Equipment. 

 

“The Healey-Driscoll Administration has made it a priority to pursue every dollar available and I’m proud of our collective teams across our Regional Transit Authorities and the MBTA for their collaboration and hard work to secure this $105.7 million in competitive grants that will enable us to modernize our bus fleets,” said Interim Transportation Secretary Phillip Eng. “With the support of our federal partners, these grants will improve service, safety and accessibility for all with new efficient buses that give the public the option to choose transit and leave their car behind.”  

 

“These grants allow MassDOT partners the opportunity to deploy new technologies that help modernize the public transit fleet while supporting progress toward cleaner air,” said Undersecretary and State Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver. “The Commonwealth’s transportation system is truly a network comprised of multiple modes, and through programs like this, we can accelerate innovation and reduce traffic congestion.” 

“Winning these grants is another positive step forward for the Commonwealth to modernize and decarbonize our transportation assets together with our partners at the RTAs, the MBTA, and the federal government,” said Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) Rail and Transit Administrator Meredith Slesinger. “Under the Healey-Driscoll administration we are investing in public transportation by expanding mobility options for people to travel which spurs economic growth, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and improves quality of life. 

The FTA Low or No Emission Grant Program provides funding to state and local governmental authorities for the purchase or lease of zero-emission and low-emission transit buses as well as acquisition, construction, and leasing of required supporting facilities. Funding is allocated to projects on a competitive basis, from proposals submitted to the FTA in response to a Notice of Funding Opportunity.  Additional information can be found on the FTA’s website: https://www.transit.dot.gov/lowno  

The Healey-Driscoll Administration has prioritized improving public transportation across the state. Under the leadership of General Manger Eng, the T has removed all slow zones for the first time in 20 years, increased speeds, opened new lines, hired thousands of workers, upgraded stations, implemented tap-to-pay and a low-income fares program, and more. As a result, the MBTA’s commuter rail ridership has rebounded at the highest level nationally, surpassing pre-pandemic ridership. Additionally, in partnership with the Legislature, the Healey-Driscoll Administration has made Regional Transit Authority service free across the state. 

「金家便利店」幽默呈現亞裔家庭處境 上演日期展延至11月30日

「金家便利店」劇作家兼主演Ins Choi。（周菊子攝）

             （Boston Orange）以韓裔移民在多倫多經營雜貨店為背景，探討第一代移民與子女之間的文化傳承，代溝，價值觀差異，刻正在南端天滿街527號Calderwood Pavillion上演的舞台劇「金家便利店（Kim's Convenience）」，目前正因觀眾反應熱烈，檔期將展延至11月30日。

「金家便利店」演員謝幕。（周菊子攝）

            由於這是亨廷頓（Huntington）劇院在常規節目之外的精選系列（The Huntington Selects）之一，這齣舞台劇的劇本創作者Ins Choi，繼15年前在此劇首演時飾演劇中兒子Jung之後，又親自上陣，飾演父親金先生（Appa）一角，淋漓揮灑，讓台上總共只有5名演員的這齣劇，更加活靈活現，讓觀眾既為幽默對白捧腹不已，又難以不被帶入劇情的一邊感覺親情溫馨，一邊又看到移民的父母輩和在美加出生的子女輩，因成長背景不同，文化傳承及價值觀差異形成的衝突，妥協。

「金家便利店」在天滿街的Calderwood Pavillion上演。（周菊子攝）

            Ins Choi曾說，這齣劇是他獻給自己父母，以及第一代移民的“情書”。

            「金家便利店」這齣舞台劇最早於2011年在多倫多邊緣藝術節（Toronto Fringe Festival）首演，後經Soulpepper戲劇公司製作，大受歡迎，被改編成同名電視劇，在加拿大廣播公司(CBC)和Netflix上，從2016年到2021年播出了5季。

            這次來到麻州，是北美巡迴演出的一部分，由Adam Blanshay 製作公司和美國音樂學院劇院（American Conservatory Theater）合作，呈現的加拿大頂尖Soulpepper劇團作品。

            這也是亨廷頓（Huntington）劇院在常規節目之外的精選系列（The Huntington Selects）之一。

這齣劇的製作單位鑑於劇作內容的亞裔特質，在11月6日首映時，特地和「創舞台（ Chuang Stage）」合作舉辦「亞洲歡樂夜（Asian Joy Night），11月13日又和加拿大駐波士頓領事館和辦了一場「加拿大歡樂夜」。

在麻州上演的這齣舞台劇，製作團隊包括不少亞裔，例如場景設計師余頌恩，戲服設計師黃明慧，燈光設計師廖雯伶，音響設計師及原創音樂张颿等人。

            門票＄29起，另有HYPE （40歲以下）、學生、軍人等折扣票，和數量有限的隨意付費（Pay-What-You-Wish）票種。查詢詳情可上網huntingtontheatre.org，或電洽617-266-0800。（訂正：在麻州演出的「金家便利店」是由Adam Blanshay 製作公司和美國音樂學院劇院（American Conservatory Theater）合作，呈現的加拿大頂尖Soulpepper劇團作品。）