州長一紙行政命令推創意表達 麻州從此將有桂冠詩人

 Governor Healey Signs Executive Order to Establish Massachusetts’ First-Ever Poet Laureate  

BOSTON – Today, Governor Maura Healey signed an executive order creating the first-ever Poet Laureate of Massachusetts. This new, honorary position is intended to promote poetry and creative expression across the state, serve as the Governor and Lieutenant Governor’s ambassador of the arts, and inspire the next generation of writers. 

“Massachusetts has a rich legacy of pioneering poets, from Phillis Wheatley Peters to Robert Frost to Emily Dickinson to Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Our administration is committed to honoring this legacy by celebrating the many contributions of poets to our state, including their ability to inspire future generations,” said Governor Maura Healey. “We’re grateful to the Mass Cultural Council for their strong partnership in creating this important position, and we encourage poets from across the state to apply when the application goes live.” 

“From day one, our administration has been committed to supporting arts and culture in Massachusetts," said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “The creation of the Poet Laureate is not only an investment in our creative economy, but also an invitation for us to embrace the unique power poetry has to open our minds, stir our hearts and educate us all.” 

“Mass Cultural Council is thrilled that today, Massachusetts – a celebrated hub of arts, culture, history, creativity, and innovation – is embracing poetry and creative expression and establishing an official Poet Laureate,” said Michael J. Bobbitt, Executive Director, Mass Cultural Council. “This position will continue our proud tradition of using language and creativity to tell stories, evoke emotion, inspire new ideas, and sometimes, call others to action. It is truly an honor to partner with the Healey-Driscoll Administration on this initiative, and to again shine a bright spotlight on the power of culture.” 

The Poet Laureate will be charged with encouraging the appreciation of poetry and creative expression across Massachusetts, organizing and attending public readings and other statewide literary and cultural events in different regions, composing poetry for ceremonial occasions, and advising the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education on an outreach program for schools focused on the celebration and advancement of poetry.  

The Executive Order establishes an advisory Poet Laureate Nominating Committee to review applications for the role and submit recommendations to the Governor. The selected candidate will be eligible for a stipend provided by the Mass Cultural Council.  

Since taking office, Governor Healey has worked to find ways to invest in and celebrate the arts. Governor Healey expanded the art on display in the Governor's office, last year adding Black Tie by Robert T. Freeman and At the Tremont Street Car Barns by Allan Rohan Crite from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. The office also has on loan from the museum, Early Summer by J. Appleton Brown, Spring Hillside by J. J. Enneking, George Washington by Francis Alexander, Landscape by Leslie Prince Thompson and Showery May Morning, by J. Appleton Brown. Last year, the Governor’s office began hosting a temporary exhibition in the reception area celebrating Black History, Native American Heritage, Cape & Islands, Climate Month, Pride Month, and Hispanic Heritage Month.  

More information about the Massachusetts Poet Laureate and how to apply will be available this Spring. 

麻州Diana's烘培店Agawam工廠將關門 預定裁員229人

               (Boston Orange 編譯) 根據一份遞交給麻州政府的通知，Diana’s麻州烘培店東主將關閉位於Agawam的工廠，並打算裁員229人。

              Diana’s是一家烘培批發商，供應新鮮及冷凍烘培食品給學校、店鋪和其他消費者。Agawam工廠位於Bowles 120號，以及Silver 接609號的工廠，預定3月底關門。之後會有幾名員工留下來處理轉移事務。

              在通知信中，Diana’s母公司，在加州、科羅拉多州、羅德島州的Westerly都有據點的維琴尼亞州Chesapeake新鮮烘培，將把在麻州刪減的工作，改由麻州之外的工廠承接。

              根據該通知，工廠內的工人不屬於任何工會。

              Diana’s還以康州派 責任有線公司(Connecticut Pie LLC)的名義經營。

              Diana’s 和「新鮮烘培」都是麻州康可鎮的銅礦之都 (Coppermine Capital)這私人投資公司麾下企業。

              Diana Macari和他的兒子Raymond，1975年在康州Windsor創辦了Diana’s這零售烘培店，後來成長為有300多種不同新鮮及冷凍烘培產品的批發商，包括手工藝麵包，丹麥甜點，甜甜圈和各種蛋糕，婚禮蛋糕等。後來Diana’s還買下一家銷售及市場行銷公司，跨進為幼稚園到12年級學校製作食物的生意。

              2017年時，銅礦之都收購了Diana’s烘培。

慈濟劍橋外展中心「箏樂迎春」慶蛇年 訂2/7談素食發展

慈濟基金會波士頓聯絡處劍橋外展中心「箏樂」慶新春。(周菊子設)

              (Boston Orange 周菊子麻州劍橋市報導) 慈濟基金會波士頓聯絡處1月31日晚在劍橋外展中心會址舉辦「箏樂迎春」音樂會，聆聽曼妙箏聲，學習古箏特色，在別具一格的聚會中，慶祝蛇年新春。

             

波士頓古箏樂團創辦人楊信宜(左)率學生胡巧穎(右)等人現場演奏古箏曲目。(周菊子攝)

慈濟波士頓負責人長金滿帶著劍橋外展中心的主持人宋永麒、陳筠媞，香積組組長金花師姊及林建璋，楊珺婷，社服組陳裕逢、蔡瑞禮等人準備了美味的素菜湯等美食，在黃素玲精美剪紙佈置的環境中，和出席者度過一個美好的大年初三。

慈濟波士頓聯絡處負責人長金滿(右一)介紹古箏團。(周菊子攝)

              2022年創辦波士頓古箏樂團的楊信宜這晚在去年甫接任大波士頓中華文化協會國樂團團長的丈夫陳志新陪同中，率領團員潘潔祾、胡凱楹，以及胡巧穎、李澤恩母子現場演奏了潮州箏曲「錦上添花」、楊信宜改編的明清小曲「太湖船」、道家歌曲「道情」、河南箏曲「上樓」、葉緒然曲「趕花會」、吳大江曲「茉莉花」、朝鮮民謠「絲綢姑娘」、金系箏社編的劉洋曲「聲聲慢」、胡偉立曲「市集」、拉敏‧賈瓦帝作曲，崔江卉編的「權力遊戲」等曲目，最後以梁樂音曲的「醒獅舞曲」為這場慶祝新春的音樂會拉下帷幕。

              本身研修項目是職能治療，卻從12歲開始就學彈琵琶，還曾應邀到西班牙等地表演的鄭炘榆，這晚正好帶著琵琶到場，卻之不恭的應長金滿之請，即席演奏一曲。

慈濟波士頓聯絡處負責人長金滿(右)和劍橋外展中心共同主持人宋永麒(左)
說明劍橋服務站點基本上每週五晚都舉辦活動。(周菊子攝)

              在演奏之中，楊信宜和學生們還分別做解說，增加人們對這已有2500多年歷史的中華傳統樂器之了解。她說明古箏彈奏用真或假指甲撥弦彈奏，主要有5個音階。古箏的右邊是有音階的，左邊沒有音階，用作聲音效果，適當運用可以彈簡單旋律，也可以移植西洋樂器的伴奏音、爬音，甚至豎琴音，要學得好，是得花些時間。         

楊信宜(右二)率團員為劍橋慈濟演奏古箏。(周菊子攝)

              波士頓慈濟負責人長金滿和劍橋外展中心的宋永麒、陳筠媞表示，劍橋外展中心每週五舉辦各式各樣的活動，邀請各界人士出席，學習新知，放鬆身心，親近慈濟。

                          慈濟劍橋外展中心接下來在2月7日晚將舉辦「中國素食發展」講座，由哈佛法學院資深研究學者，也是中國蔬食發展協會創始人的簡藝主講，2月15日起至4月12日的每週六早上10點至下午2點，接受電話預約，為民眾辦理免費電子報稅。活動地點都在 620 Massachusetts Ave., Suite 6, Cambridge, MA 02139，報名或查詢可洽617-762-0569。

慈濟波士頓聯絡處劍橋外展中心共同主持人陳筠媞端出送給表演者的感謝禮物。
(周菊子攝)

鄭炘榆正好帶了琵琶出席，應邀即席演奏一段。(周菊子攝)

金花師姐和林建璋為活動準備蔬食。(周菊子攝)

「箏樂迎春」現場。(周菊子攝)

紐英崙中華公所僑團春宴從1月排至4月底

 

紐英崙中華公所迎新春 喜見波城市長新生龍女跨蛇年

紐英崙中華公所董事及顧問們拜年。前排左起，胡衛正、梁添光、余立昌、余積堯、鄺炎彬、周萬欽、梅麗梨、李源沛、
余麗媖、陳黃海蘭、陳建立、陳秀珍、李伍碧香、何遠光、阮謝少珍、陳文珊、梁永基、池元山。後排左起，朱瑞生、伍偉業、
黃紹培、黃偉健、鄭慧民、阮鴻燦、黃兆祥、陳余寶愛、陳清。雷國輝、甄若素、黃國威、關麗莎、
司徒宗達、翁宇才、謝如鍵、陳仕維、阮偉昌。(周菊子攝)

嘉賓和胡清白鶴派醒獅隊合影。(周菊子攝)

             （Boston Orange 周菊子波士頓報導) 紐英崙中華公所  (CCBA) 在年初二的1月30日，假帝苑大酒樓慶祝蛇年新春，包括波士頓市長吳弭 (Michelle Wu) 、州市官員、議員在內，共500多人圍桌聚餐，欣賞祥獅獻瑞，社團歌舞，高唱「朋友」，喜迎財神。

波士頓市長吳弭 (Michelle Wu)抱著半個月大的女兒Mira出席中華公所春宴。
中華公所主席雷國輝(左)出面招呼。(周菊子攝)

              中華公所的蛇年新春慶祝，由公所中英文書記翁宇才、阮鴻燦擔任司儀，胡清白鶴派掌門胡衛正指揮三大二小的五頭瑞獅，在鑼鼓聲中向一列排開的州市嘉賓們採青獻桔，拉彩炮，備添節慶氣氛。2名司儀還指出，蛇象徵智慧，求變與機遇，祝福所有人發揮蛇的特性，觀察敏銳，決策機智，吉祥、富貴、長壽、重生。

波士頓市長吳弭在丈夫Connor Pewarski和小兒子陪同中，抱著剛出生的女兒Mira參加
中華公所春宴。大兒子沒來世上數學課去了。(周菊子攝)

              波士頓市長吳弭抱著甫於1月13日出生的小龍女，在丈夫Connor Pewarski，以及小兒子的陪同中到場。她說自己很興奮，來和華埠民眾一同慶祝又一個非常幸運的一年。她覺得自己很榮幸能來這兒和大家一起，因為華埠對她家來說極段重要，而且這是所有華人要傳承給下一代的許多傳統之一。她還特別點出，很高興看到舞獅團中的小小舞獅者，那麼有才華。最後她用普通話說「祝大家新年快樂，恭喜發財，萬事如意」。

波士頓市議會議長Ruthzee Louijeune(右)抱抱Mira沾喜氣。
華埠民眾送封"利市"給市長女兒。 (周菊子攝)

              紐英崙中華公所主席雷國輝今年的致詞，格外簡單，只說「外面很冷，裡面很暖」，這天有500多人來參加新春宴會，同桌共歡。他祝大家「成年行好運，身體健康，家庭幸福」。

麻州眾議會財務委員會主席麥家威 (Aaron Michlewitz) 和眾議員黃子安(右)
代表麻州議會送上表揚狀給中華公所，由主席雷國輝(中)代表接受。(周菊子攝)

              紐英崙中華公所今年的新春慶祝，嘉賓眾多，在波士頓市長之外，來自波士頓市政府的有市長幕僚長朱為亭 (Tiffany Chu)，警察局長Michael Cox，房屋長Sheila Dillion，老人事務局局長Emily Shea，鄰里服務局副局長Christopher Breen，華埠聯絡員黃楚嵐。波士頓市議會議長Ruthzee Louijeune，不分區市議員Erin Murphy，第二區市議員愛德華費連 (Ed Flynn) ，第八區市議員 Sharon Durkan。

              來自州政府的有麻州眾議會財務委員會主席麥家威 (Aaron Michlewitz)，麻州眾議員黃子安 (Donald Wong)，麻州參議員Nick Collins，以及州長的議會委員Mara Dolan，薩福克郡檢察官 Kevin R, Hayden等人。

              駐波士頓台北經濟文化辦事處處長廖朝宏，組長黃耀良，波士頓僑教中心主任高家富，也都應邀到會。

轄區包括華埠的麻州參議員Nick Collins(中)在財神爺 (阮鴻燦) 陪伴中
送上表揚狀給中華公所，由主席雷國輝代表接受。(周菊子攝)

              在嘉賓致詞，送上表揚狀之後，中華公所為蛇年春宴安排了紐英崙養生舞協會的「鼓樂慶新春」，鄉土舞蹈團的「茉莉花開」，元極舞聯誼會的「福滿乾坤」，健康舞蹈團的「交換」等表演，為新春慶祝助興。接著由MK婚禮娛樂公司麥澤衡夫婦主持卡拉OK，有吳皓、譚達兒等人上台高歌。

波士頓市議會議長Ruthzee Louijenue(右起)、市議員Ed Flynn、
Erin Murphy、Sharon Durkan一起代表市議會送表揚狀給中華公所。(周菊子攝)

              中華公所英文書記阮鴻燦換裝扮財神，在公所財政陳余寶愛、核數張青梅陪同下，遊走現場，逐桌派發內裝一元紙幣的「利市」，祝福人人新春好運，為會場帶來不少歡笑。

              紐英崙中華公所今年的新春慶祝特色之一，是老幼同歡，既有剛出生才半個月的市長女兒Mira，也有前年才慶祝百歲生日的華埠早年僑領阮陳金鳳，以及當年和她一起在華埠社區服務大眾的中華耆英會創辦人梅伍銀寬，曾任波士頓國民黨常委的李伍綺蓮等人，讓小小的一個宴會廳頓時裝進了華埠百年傳承。

波士頓僑務委員陳仕維夫婦和中華公所主席雷國輝歡迎波士頓經文處處長廖朝宏、
組長黃耀良、波士頓僑教中心主任高家富參加春宴。(周菊子攝)

              在紐英崙中華公所照慣例的率先舉辦慶祝新春宴會後，接下來將是至孝篤親公所訂2月8日，波士頓安良工商為訂2月9日舉辦春宴，中華公所每年一度的舞獅迎新春活動，也已訂在2月9日(週日)的早上11點至下午3點，從菲立普廣場出發。當天早上11點至下午2點，中華公所還將在會址所在的泰勒街 (Tyler St)90號舉辦文化村活動，有手工藝展示及製作。

麻州眾議員麥家威(右)告訴經文處處長廖朝宏怎麼拉彩炮。(周菊子攝)

 (訂正第一張照片人名，前排左三為余立昌。)

波士頓市長吳弭 (抱著女兒)邀州市官員一起送上表揚狀。

左起，波士頓市長幕僚長朱為亭、老人局局長Emily Shea，房屋長Sheila Dillon
和中華耆英會創辦人梅伍銀寬、耆英會白禮頓樓主任梅麗梨。(周菊子攝)

百歲人瑞阮陳金鳳和女兒阮坤慈。(周菊子攝)

曾任波士頓國民黨常委，如今年逾90的李伍綺蓮(右)在現任常委張韻蘭
陪同中出席中華公所蛇年春宴。(周菊子攝)

中華公所主席雷國輝繼續房地產發展的兩大助手，顧問Peter Munkenbeck (左)、
中華公所物業發展經理鄭欣豪。  (周菊子攝)

全美洪門致公堂元老余麗媖(右三)和波士頓洪門致公堂主席胡振勝(左三)、
譚偉明(左二)，前任主席黎奕置等人。 (周菊子攝)

全美安良工商會元老陳仕維(左三)和安良兄弟。(周菊子攝)

中華公所董事及賓客唱卡拉OK。(周菊子攝)

中華公所董事唱卡拉OK。(周菊子攝)

MK婚禮娛樂公司麥澤衡夫婦主持卡拉OK，(周菊子攝)

中華公所蛇年春宴會場。(周菊子攝)

波士頓藝術中心和波士頓大學合作 今春推出「多個藝術書展及藝展」

Boston Center for the Arts (BCA) Partners with Boston University to

Support “Multiple Fairs Art Book Fair” at Boston University this Spring

Multiple Fairs, a collaborative variation of Multiple Formats, will bring together art book enthusiasts, creatives, and the public through a mix of exhibitions, panels, and hands-on workshops.

January 31, 2025 (Boston, MA) — Boston Center for the Arts (BCA) is pleased to announce that the Boston Art Book Fair is collaborating with Boston University College of Fine Arts School of Visual Arts in a co-branded “Multiple Fairs Art Book Fair” on March 20–22, 2025 held at Boston University. BCA will develop and present a variety of topical panel discussions and hands-on workshops on Saturday at the fair. These public programs will further the common goals of BCA and BU to attract wide and diverse audiences to the fair, and to grow the community who love art and books.

Multiple Formats is sponsored by BU School of Visual Arts at Boston University, and organized by Christopher Sleboda, Associate Professor of Art, Graphic Design at Boston University. This year’s “Multiple Fairs Art Book Fair” is also sponsored in part by Wagner Foundation. BCA is thrilled to reconnect with the wide array of artists, art book lovers, and members of dynamic creative communities that the Boston Art Book Fair has served in its five iterations over seven years as we are looking for ways to sustain its continuing presence on the rich Boston cultural scene. Like the Boston Art Book Fair, Multiple Formats serves as a fertile gathering and learning place for Boston’s art book community, and so we are honored to work with them.

This partnership with BU School of Visual Arts will also allow BCA to continue to support an exciting range of exhibitors as well as artists and Boston residents who attend the fair, connecting art to community and allowing us to collectively continue to grow the Boston Art Book Fair. BCA will bring its strong experience in creating programming that serves audiences well beyond the traditional academic community, further broadening Multiple Formats’ already diverse audience. BCA launched the Boston Art Book Fair in 2017, and after a successful return post-pandemic in 2022, the 2023 edition of the Boston Art Book Fair was the largest yet. BCA continues to explore ways to ensure its future growth and sustainability.

To support this, BCA has adjusted its programming calendar to give the organization time to redesign the event to maximize impact and optimize resource allocation. BCA looks forward to sharing more details in Spring 2025 about the Boston Art Book Fair’s future as a freestanding annual event.

Governor Maura Healey Warns Trump’s Tariffs Will Increase Costs for Massachusetts Residents and Businesses

 Governor Maura Healey Warns Trump’s Tariffs Will Increase Costs for Massachusetts Residents and Businesses 

Tariffs on Massachusetts’ largest trading partners will increase cost of groceries, clothes, housing, phones, cars, and more; Electricity costs in New England will increase by $200 million 

BOSTON – Governor Maura Healey issued the following statement in response to the White House’s announcement that President Donald Trump will implement a 25 percent tariff on goods coming into the United States from Canada and Mexico and a 10 percent tariff on goods from China on Saturday. These countries represent Massachusetts’ three largest trading partners. 

“The number one issue facing the American people is high costs. The President’s tariffs represent nothing more than a giant price hike on the cost of groceries, clothes, phones, housing, and energy,” said Governor Healey. “We estimate that electricity costs in New England alone will go up by as much as $200 million a year. Additionally, we rely on these countries for lumber and building materials, which means housing costs will rise, and housing production could stall. We need a partner in the White House who will lower costs for families and businesses in Massachusetts, and all we’ve seen thus far from this new administration are actions that will do the exact opposite.” 

Tariffs on Canada are expected to impact the dairy industry and raise the cost of milk, cheese and butter. Canada is also one of the largest suppliers of softwood lumber in the U.S., which means increased costs for housing, construction and home renovation. Tariffs on Canada will also impact the price of cars and car parts, energy, and fish and seafood. Tariffs on Mexico are expected to increase the cost of agricultural products like fruits, vegetables, avocados and tomatoes, as well as cars and car parts, beer and tequila, TVs and other electronics. Tariffs on China will increase the cost of smartphones, laptops, TVs and other electronics, furniture, clothing and toys. These tariffs also raise the risk of retaliatory tariffs on exports, which could be devastating for American businesses. 

麻州長Healey將重遞「賦權地方市鎮法」

Healey-Driscoll Administration Files Municipal Empowerment Bill to Enhance Ability of Local Leaders to Deliver High-Quality Services for Their Communities 

Municipal Empowerment Act Relieves Administrative Burdens, Supports Fiscal Strength, and Expands Tools Available to Support Communities 

BOSTON – Today, Governor Maura Healey filed legislation to help local governments across Massachusetts reduce long-term fiscal pressures, attract a talented workforce, provide high-quality services, and streamline operations to best serve residents. Governor Healey announced her plan to refile the Municipal Empowerment Act last week, in tandem with a Chapter 90 reform bill the Governor filed to make meaningful investments in municipal transportation infrastructure.  

The Municipal Empowerment Act retains major efficiency measures that were part of the legislation filed last session. This includes permanently enabling municipalities to permit hybrid public meetings, reforming procurement rules, and establishing enforcement mechanisms to encourage the timely removal of double pole. Additionally, several new provisions have been added to help local officials improve public health and lower costs.  

“Every Massachusetts resident deserves to live in a community with high-quality local services, from safe roadways to access to good jobs and schools,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Our administration knows that city and town officials know their communities the best, and that’s why we want to empower them with the tools to make the choices they need to provide the best local services that meet the unique needs of their communities.”  

“Our administration’s deep, collaborative relationships with municipal leaders informed every provision in the filed Municipal Empowerment Act,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “We’ve heard from local officials across the state that improving municipal finances and operations is top priority, and I’m proud that the legislation we’re filing today will equip our cities and towns with the resources and policy levers they need to continue making life better for our residents.” 

“Through the Municipal Empowerment Act, the investments in local communities proposed in our FY26 budget, and our Chapter 90 reform bill, we are continuing to support Massachusetts’ municipal leaders in keeping our cities and towns financially stable and vibrant well into the future,” said Secretary of Administration and Finance Matthew J. Gorzkowicz. “We are grateful for the ongoing partnership of local officials across the state and look forward to making these transformative changes together.”  

New or updated provisions in the Municipal Empowerment Act from last session include:  

• Updating enforcement mechanisms for double pole violations, extending the statutory prohibition against double poles from 90 days to 180 days, while giving municipalities enforcement authority with penalties for utilities that fail to comply. 

• Expediting the removal of double poles by empowering the Department of Public Utilities and Department of Telecommunications and Cable to establish a process allowing speedier removal while giving municipalities enforcement authority with penalties for utilities that fail to comply. 

• Supporting the prevention of drug overdoses by ensuring that anyone who administers fentanyl strips, including local public safety officials, will not be subject to criminal or civil liability. 

• Easing procurement of snow hauling services by aligning these services with procurement procedures for snow removal.  

• Expanding municipalities’ ability to reduce school bus service costs by repealing a law that limits districts’ ability to start in-house school bus services when private transportation companies are available.   

Highlights of the bill that have been retained from the previous version include:    

• Creating new property tax exemptions for seniors to allow cities and towns to adopt a Senior Means Tested Property Tax Exemption for qualifying seniors and to increase existing senior property tax exemptions.  

• Addressing long-term benefit funding pressures by establishing a new Other Post-Employment Benefits (OPEB) Commission to take a fresh look at opportunities to address unfunded liabilities from non-pension employee benefits.  

• Allowing the creation of Regional Boards of Assessors to allow municipalities to streamline duties and reduce significant staffing challenges.   

• Creating additional temporary flexibilities in post-retirement employment by expanding the process for seeking exemptions to post-retirement employment rules for the next 3 years. 

• Reforming procurement law:   

  • Clarifying that groups of cities and towns can award multiple contracts through an RFP process under M.G.L. Chapter 30B and purchase both supplies and services from collectively bid contracts;   

  • Equalizing 30B thresholds for advertised procurements to $100 k for all municipal purchasing – not just schools;  

  • Eliminating the requirement to publish notice of invitations for competitive bids on COMMBUYS;  

• Supporting workforce challenges by centralizing valuation of telecom and utility property through the Department of Revenue’s Division of Local Services (DLS) to relieve cities and towns of the cost of individually hiring experts and consultants.   

• Updating borrowing rules for school projects to increase from 30 years to 40 years the bond term to more closely reflects the life expectancy of the project.  

• Empowering communities to generate more local revenue. As the primary lever available to cities and towns to raise revenues for local services, increasing pressure is being put on local property taxes. This bill expands options for cities and towns to raise revenue without raising property taxes: 

  • Increases the maximum local option lodging tax on hotel, motel and other rentals from 6 percent to 7 percent in most communities, and 6.5 percent to 7.5 percent for Boston. 

  • Increases the local meals tax ceiling from .75 percent to 1 percent; 

  • Adds a new local option surcharge of up to 5 percent on motor vehicle excise bills that can be dedicated to local stabilization funds – a provision that could benefit every community in Massachusetts. 

Since taking office, the Healey-Driscoll Administration has been committed to ensuring that every municipality, from Provincetown to Pittsfield, has the resources it needs to succeed. The administration’s FY26 budget proposal continues that commitment, with a recommended $9.205 billion in local aid, a $480 million or 6 percent increase over the FY25 budget, full funding of the fifth year of the Student Opportunity Act, and a proposal to leverage the voter-approved Fair Share surtax to expand and reform Chapter 90. The administration’s recently filed Chapter 90 reform bill authorizes the state to borrow $1.5 billion over the next five years, enabling $300 million in annual funds, a 50 percent increase. These legislative initiatives build on previous reforms to provide municipalities greater flexibility, such as passage of the most sweeping civil service system reforms in 50 years, which will enable local police and fire departments more options for recruiting key personnel.  

Governor Healey Issues Citation, Flies Flag over State House in Honor of Capt. Richard Stratton

 Governor Healey Issues Citation, Flies Flag over State House in Honor of Capt. Richard Stratton 

BOSTON – Governor Maura T. Healey has issued a citation in memory of Captain Richard A. Stratton, a Vietnam War Navy veteran from Quincy who passed away last week at the age of 93. Assistant Secretary of Engagement and Outreach Cory Ahonen will deliver the citation, as well as an interment flag that Governor Healey flew over the State House this week, to Captain Stratton’s family at his wake today. 

“It is an honor to deliver this citation and interment flag to the family of Captain Stratton in recognition of his remarkable life and service to our nation. A proud Quincy native, Captain Stratton valiantly served in the Vietnam War and persisted through more than six years of captivity,” said Governor Maura Healey. “His service didn’t end there – he came home to help other soldiers and civilians suffering from trauma and addiction as a social worker. We are in awe of his bravery, his resilience, and his deep compassion for others. He is a true American hero, and our deepest condolences go out to his loved ones and community.” 

“As the proud daughter of a Navy veteran, I’ve been deeply moved by Captain Stratton’s story. I think every military family recognizes the incredible commitment to service and love for others that Captain Stratton displayed throughout his life, because it’s what motivates every one of our veterans,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “I’m also grateful for the leadership of Mayor Koch and the Quincy community to establish a monument that honors Captain Stratton and his fellow Vietnam War veterans.” 

“Captain Stratton dedicated his life to service, first through his distinguished military career and later as a source of strength for fellow veterans facing PTSD and substance use challenges,” said Veterans Secretary Jon Santiago. “His story is an example of how veterans continue to serve long after their time in uniform. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who were touched by his dedication and compassion.” 

“Captain Stratton was a true American hero in every sense of the word. His sacrifice, perseverance, and the honor and dignity in which he lived his entire life set an extraordinary example,” said Quincy Mayor Thomas P. Koch. “The City of Quincy and our entire Commonwealth have a proud tradition of men and women who’ve answered the call to serve – and so many of them stand on the shoulders of people like Captain Stratton. I’m grateful to Governor Healey and Lieutenant Governor Driscoll for honoring Captain Stratton’s life and legacy in this most dignified and appropriate way.”  

Captain Richard A. Stratton, USN, Ret. grew up in Quincy and attended the public schools. He served in the Massachusetts Army National Guard, spent years at the Catholic Seminary of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, and eventually graduated from Georgetown University. He joined the United States Navy Aviation Officer Candidate Program and was designated a Naval Aviator in 1957, while also being assigned to Standford University and earning a master's degree in international relations. He was deployed to Southeast Asia with CVW-19 aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ticonderoga in 1966 until he was shot down and forced to eject over North Vietnam. He was taken as a Prisoner of War on January 5, 1967 and spent 2,251 days in captivity, enduring horrific and inhumane treatment. He was released during Operation Homecoming on March 4, 1973 and later awarded the Silver Star for Valor, Purple Heart, and P.O.W. medal among many other military decorations and awards. When he returned home, he continued to hold various positions and commands across the country. After his retirement from the Navy, he practiced as a clinical social worker, specializing in psychological trauma and addictions, served as President of NAM-POWs, and was Chairman of the Department of Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee on Prisoners of War. He is survived by his wife Alice, three sons, six granddaughters, and several nieces and nephews.  

The Governor’s citation reads: 

"In recognition of the life and legacy of Captain Richard A. Stratton, United States Navy, Ret. We commend him for his service in the Massachusetts National Guard and later United States Navy where he deployed to Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War. On January 5, 1967, Captain Stratton was taken captive and spent 2,251 days as a Prisoner of War. Captain Stratton was released during Operation Homecoming on March 4, 1973. He was awarded the Silver Star for Valor, Purple Heart, and P.O.W. medal among many other military decorations and awards. The Commonwealth will never forget his impact on the people of Massachusetts and his country." 

Roche receives FDA approval for the first companion diagnostic to identify patients with HER2-ultralow metastatic breast cancer eligible for ENHERTU

 Roche receives FDA approval for the first companion diagnostic to identify patients with HER2-ultralow metastatic breast cancer eligible for ENHERTU

• As seen in the DESTINY-Breast06 trial, approximately 20-25 percent of hormone receptor (HR)-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer patients may be considered HER2-ultralow.¹ These patients may now be eligible for a targeted treatment, which could significantly improve their outcomes.
• The PATHWAY HER2 (4B5) test, the first and only FDA approved companion diagnostic for assessing HER2-low status since 2022,  is now also approved to aid in the assessment of HER2-ultralow status for metastatic breast cancer patients.
• HER2 interpretation in breast cancer is evolving. With the introduction of HER2-low and now HER2-ultralow classifications, Roche continues to lead in HER2 diagnostics, helping to expand patient access to personalised treatment.

Basel, 31 January 2025 - Roche (SIX: RO, ROG; OTCQX: RHHBY) announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a label expansion for the PATHWAY® anti-HER2/neu (4B5) Rabbit Monoclonal Primary Antibody* to identify patients with HR-positive, HER2-ultralow metastatic breast cancer who may be eligible for treatment with ENHERTU®. ENHERTU is a specifically engineered HER2-directed antibody drug conjugate (ADC) discovered by Daiichi Sankyo and being jointly developed and commercialised by Daiichi Sankyo and AstraZeneca.

Until the introduction of HER2-low status in 2022, HER2 status was categorised as either “positive” or “negative” based on the level of HER2 expression. The PATHWAY HER2 (4B5) test has now received approval to identify a new patient population designated as "HER2-ultralow." HER2-ultralow refers to patients who have very low levels of HER2 expression, even lower than the existing HER2-low category.

“One in eight women in the United States will face invasive breast cancer in their lifetime,” said Matt Sause, CEO of Roche Diagnostics. “The rising incidence of metastatic breast cancer, particularly among younger populations, underscores the urgent need for new diagnostic options. The approval of our test for determining HER2-ultralow status offers new hope to patients by providing a possible path to HER2-targeted treatment where none existed before, helping clinicians transform outcomes for many facing this challenging disease.”

HER2 is a receptor protein that helps cancer cells grow quickly. To determine a patient’s HER2 status, pathologists evaluate, or score, the level of HER2 receptor protein expressed in breast cancer tissue samples. The PATHWAY HER2 (4B5) test was used as part of the DESTINY-Breast06 trial, which showed a median progression-free survival of 13.2 months with ENHERTU compared to 8.1 months with the standard of care (chemotherapy) in the overall trial population of patients with HER2-low and HER2-ultralow metastatic breast cancer. An exploratory analysis showed the results were consistent between patients with HER2-low and HER2-ultralow expression.²

The FDA approval of the new HER2-ultralow indication expands on the intended use for Roche’s on-market PATHWAY anti-HER2 (4B5) test, proven in delivering timely, clear, and confident results. The launch further strengthens and differentiates Roche’s comprehensive breast cancer solutions portfolio, aiding patients and providers in making informed decisions to improve outcomes.

Governor Healey Launches Increased Annuity for Veterans and Families through HERO Act

Governor Healey Launches Increased Annuity for Veterans and Families through HERO Act

Payments will begin increasing in February 2025, ultimately going up to $2,500 by August 2025 

 

BOSTON – The Healey-Driscoll Administration is announcing that Massachusetts veterans and their families will begin receiving increased benefits in February 2025 as part of the historic HERO Act that Governor Healey signed into law last year. This is the first increase in 17 years to the annual annuity for 100% disabled veterans, Gold Star parents and Gold Star spouses. 

This landmark increase raises the annuity from $2,000 to $2,500 annually, providing much-needed financial support to veterans and their loved ones. The increase will be phased in to ensure a smooth transition. In February 2025, recipients will receive an initial payment of $1,250. Beginning in August 2025 and continuing annually thereafter, recipients will receive a single annual payment of $2,500. 

"By increasing this annuity, we are reaffirming our commitment to the veterans, Gold Star families, and servicemembers who have given so much for our state and our country," said Governor Maura Healey. "The HERO Act reflects our deep respect and gratitude for their service, ensuring that Massachusetts remains a leader in veteran support and recognition. I'm grateful for Secretary Santiago and his team, as well as the Legislature for their partnership to pass this impactful bill." 

“As the proud daughter of a Navy Vet, I know firsthand how veterans and their loved ones rely on benefits like this annuity,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “This increase means more money back in the pockets of our heroes to pay for food, housing, health care and anything else they might need.” 

"This increase is more than just a financial adjustment – it’s a promise kept to those who have given so much,” said Veterans Services Secretary Jon Santiago. “We are proud to deliver tangible support to ensure veterans and their families can thrive in Massachusetts." 

Most eligible recipients will receive a direct deposit of the increased annuity early next week. Others will receive a check in the mail later in the week. 

Since taking office, the Healey-Driscoll Administration has prioritized revitalizing veterans' services in Massachusetts. In March 2023, Governor Healey established the state’s new Executive Office of Veterans’ Services and appointed Jon Santiago, the state’s first-ever Secretary of the Executive Office of Veterans Services, to spearhead the transformation of a cabinet-level secretariat focused on veteran care. Over the past year, the Executive Office of Veterans Services has overhauled operations and existing programs to redefine how veterans are cared for in Massachusetts. This includes passing the HERO Act, the most comprehensive piece of veterans’ legislation in Massachusetts history that increases benefits, modernize services and promote inclusivity for veterans in Massachusetts, moving forward on new, state-of-the-art veterans' homes in Holyoke and Chelsea and launching an initiative to End Veteran Homelessness. 

The Executive Office of Veterans Services encourages eligible veterans and families to reach out with any questions about their benefits or the implementation of the HERO Act provisions. For more information about the HERO Act or the Executive Office of Veterans Services, please visit Chapter 115 Benefits/Safety Net Program | Mass.gov.