樂高美國新總部落地波士頓 未來10年員工增聘至800人

樂高集團執行長Niels B. Christiansen舉大剪刀剪綵。（周菊子攝）

           (Boston Orange 周菊子波士頓綜合報導) 全球玩具巨擘樂高集團（LEGO group）的新美國總部，今（15）日在麻州州長奚莉(Maura Healey) 和波士頓市長吳弭(Michelle Wu)蒞臨剪綵中，正式啟用。樂高集團宣佈，未來2年將捐款500萬元，讓更多波士頓兒童享受玩耍，未來10年員工增至800餘人。

樂高集團美國總部大樓內展示用樂高出來的模型。（周菊子攝）

            樂高集團還將在6月11日，到波士頓的蘿絲甘迺迪綠路上慶祝「世界玩耍日(World Play Day)」，藉以響應聯合國2024年推出的國際玩耍日(International Day of Play)。

        樂高集團是一家丹麥公司，在全世界120個國家營銷，過去50年來美國總部一直設在康州Engield。2023年奚莉州長上任，同年1月24日，樂高宣佈將把美國總部遷至麻州波士頓市。

呼應波士頓公園內的“母鴨帶小鴨”，這兒有個樂高版。（周菊子攝）

            樂高美國新總部座落在後灣區的波約斯頓街(Boylston)街1001號的6至11樓，佔地15.7萬平方英尺。這是棟高20層，用麻州收費公路（Ｍass Turnpike）上空權蓋出來的樓宇，租戶包括去年已入駐的「汽車大師Car Guru」」。

樂高員工用樂高做了一個麻州州長模型。（周菊子攝）

            麻州州長奚莉和波士頓市長吳弭，丹麥駐美國大使Jesper Møller Sørensen都應邀出席，和樂高集團執行長Niels B. Christiansen，副總裁暨波士頓項目主管Skip Kodak，商務長Colette Burke一起剪綵。

            樂高集團執行長Niels B. Christiansen表示，樂高美國新總部遷至波士頓是該公司在美國這重要市場的長期投資，吸引人才的重要策略之一，以為已有93年歷史，以寓教為樂為宗旨的樂高公司鋪陳將來的創新、發展道路。

樂高員工還做了一個波士頓市長吳弭的樂高模型。（周菊子攝）

              Niels B. Christiansen透露，樂高正在美國維琴尼亞州建造最先進的工廠，以迎合美國市長的需要。上星期樂高宣佈了再為琴尼亞州設一個區域配送中心，上個月則宣佈了在清奈增設一個新的消費者和購物者互動團隊，將來會繼續在美國各地增設分店。

樂高美國總部設在波士頓是第八選區，市議員Sharon Durkan不僅出席，
還在樂高總部開幕這天，為分委區耆英安排了一場參觀活動。（周菊子攝）

             Colette Burke回顧樂高當年在康州設立美國總部時，只有24名員工，如今該公司在美國共有3500名員工，150家分店，還藉由樂高玩耍（Lego Play）這教育性活動和數難以計的兒童互動，在全世界有31,000名員工。她自己在美國待了20多年後，也在2003年成為美國公民。

            Colette Burke在致詞時還提及，樂高集團向來重視“玩耍的力量（Power of Play）”和波士頓兒童博物館，波士頓科學博物館長年合作，今後還將在未來2年內投資100萬元，和波士頓公共圖書館的所有26個分館合作。

             麻州州長奚莉形容麻州之於美國，有如丹麥之於歐洲，地位同等重要。麻州不但是美國最適宜生兒育女的州，在創新上也名列前矛。她還知道樂高在和麻省理工學院的媒體實驗室合作，研發機器人及其他領域的科學、技術、工程、數學 （STEM）學習策略。

            吳弭市長則強調麻州及波士頓是自由、經濟繁榮，以及歡迎所有人社區的火炬，永遠也不會退縮。（更新版）

麻州長Healey宣佈凍結州政府人事 占停招聘

 Governor Healey Announces Executive Branch Hiring Freeze  

Hiring controls put in place in response to federal economic uncertainty and disruption to protect critical state program funding and implement a final Fiscal Year 2026 budget  

BOSTON – Today, Governor Maura Healey announced that she would be implementing a hiring freeze across the Executive Branch in response to widespread economic uncertainty at the national level and a tightening budget outlook for Fiscal Year 2026. 

The hiring freeze, which will take effect May 27, is a proactive step being taken by the Healey-Driscoll Administration to manage spending as the state prepares for the start of the new fiscal year. With further anticipated federal funding cuts and spending pressures created by ongoing inflation and demand for services, hiring controls are one tool the administration plans to use to ensure the state can continue to invest in essential services and safety net programs for people and families. 

“The people of Massachusetts expect us to protect and maximize their tax dollars, and that’s exactly what we’re doing,” said Governor Healey. “Tariffs and funding cuts from Washington are causing so much economic damage and instability. We are taking this step to prepare for more uncertain economic times, protect taxpayer dollars, and move our state forward while ensuring funding will be available for the vital services people need.”  

“Challenging fiscal times require tough choices at all levels of government. I know this firsthand from my time as a mayor and now Lieutenant Governor,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “It’s also important to be prepared when you see clouds gathering. Our administration deeply appreciates the work our public employees perform on a daily basis, and while we don’t take this step lightly, we believe it’s necessary to ensure we can all continue that critical work moving forward." 

“As we navigate the close of FY25 and prepare for the start of the new fiscal year in July, the Governor’s action to implement a hiring freeze across the executive branch will give us added flexibility in the budget to respond and react to unforeseen program needs and other deficiencies that may arise. Our uncertain economic future in FY26 has been made less predictable by the threat of federal funding cuts and recent market upheaval. While we hope for the best, it is both prudent and responsible to be prepared and take control of what we can now,” said Administration and Finance Secretary Matthew J. Gorzkowicz. 

The hiring controls will apply to all Executive Branch agencies and departments. While in effect, agencies and departments will not be able to hire new employees and there will be no formal waiver process. Consistent with common practice during past hiring freezes, exemptions will be made for certain positions, including public safety officers and direct care providers. 

The administration will reevaluate the effectiveness and need for ongoing hiring controls once the FY26 General Appropriations Act has been signed and implementation is underway. 

Governor Healey Calls on Congress to Reject Federal Cuts to Food Assistance for One Million Massachusetts Residents

 Governor Healey Calls on Congress to Reject Federal Cuts to Food Assistance for One Million Massachusetts Residents  

Proposed changes to SNAP could cost Massachusetts $710 million annually  

BOSTON – Governor Maura Healey sent a letter to the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry and the House Committee on Agriculture urging them to reject changes proposed by Congressional Republicans to the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). SNAP is a federal program that provides food to more than one million Massachusetts families, including children, seniors, veterans and people with disabilities. 

“This budget proposal from Congressional Republicans will force Massachusetts families to go hungry and take away business from local retailers and farmers,” said Governor Healey. “More than one million Massachusetts residents, including children, seniors, veterans and people with disabilities, rely on SNAP to keep food on the table, and it injects nearly $3 billion into the Massachusetts economy through more than 5,500 Massachusetts businesses. States do not have the resources to make up for these federal cuts. We’re grateful to our Massachusetts Congressional delegation for standing firm in opposition to this proposal, but we need Congressional Republicans to do the right thing and fund the SNAP program.” 

“SNAP is a lifeline for so many families and businesses across our state and the nation,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “The proposals we’ve seen from Republicans in Congress would make this vital food program impossible for states to administer and impossible to understand for people who need it. It pulls the rug out from under states who have worked in good faith partnership with the federal government for decades. Congressional Republicans know that no state can make up such a devastating funding cut like this. This proposal will force kids to go hungry and hurt our economy.” 

“Cutting SNAP at this scale is reckless and dangerous,” said Health and Human Services Secretary Kate Walsh. “In Massachusetts, one third of SNAP recipients are children, nearly one third have a disability, and one quarter are older adults. In my time at Boston Medical Center and at EOHHS, I've seen up close how SNAP and food assistance programs lead to better health outcomes and lower health care costs. To hack away at SNAP is bad policy, plain and simple.”

“These proposed cuts fundamentally misunderstand how SNAP actually works," said Department of Transitional Assistance Commissioner Jeff McCue. "Massachusetts already has skin in the game, splitting administrative expenses equally with the federal government, adhering to strict quality control standards, and facing financial penalties when errors occur. This isn't a one-sided arrangement. States already invest significant time and funding into running efficient, compliant programs. Slashing federal support now would devastate our most vulnerable residents and undermine decades of collaborative work to help families achieve economic stability. The impact would ripple through our communities, affecting children's development, seniors' health, and our state's economic vitality.” 

The current proposal from Congressional Republicans is estimated to cost Massachusetts an additional $710 million annually. No state budget can cover that significant of a cost. As a result, families across the state could lose access to the program they rely on to keep food on the table. The emergency food system is already overwhelmed with demand and will be unable to fully meet the needs of millions of people across the country who will go hungry because of these policy changes. The proposal will also hurt Massachusetts businesses, as the program brings nearly $3 billion to over 5,500 Massachusetts businesses. Every dollar in SNAP benefits generates up to $1.50 in local economic activity. SNAP supports thousands of Massachusetts jobs in every community across many different industries, including farmers, grocers, manufacturers and delivery drivers. 

SNAP cuts would harm Massachusetts’ almost 7,000 local farmers and the agricultural economy by removing a critical income stream that flows through farmers markets, Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs, and local grocery purchases. Rural communities and family farms, which are already facing economic challenges, would experience further financial strain if this significant market for their products shrinks. 

Healey-Driscoll Administration Limits Deductibles and Co-Pays to Control Health Costs for Patients

  Healey-Driscoll Administration Limits Deductibles and Co-Pays to Control Health Costs for Patients 

This is the first time the state has taken action to require insurers to limit this health cost driver 

BOSTON – Governor Maura Healey and her administration are taking action to limit the cost of health care deductibles and co-pays that patients are required to pay. 

Commissioner of Insurance Michael Caljouw issued regulatory guidance that requires insurance companies to limit the growth of deductibles and co-pays for patients at the rate of medical inflation (approximately 4.8 percent). Over the past two years, deductibles charged to patients have gone up by nearly 23 percent in the merged market – resulting in increased costs of over $200 per patient.  

This is the first time the state has taken action to limit deductibles in this way, as it is the result of legislation signed by Governor Healey in 2025 that increased the Commissioner’s consideration of affordability during a review of the merged market. The limit on deductibles and co-pays will go into effect in January 2026. 

“Massachusetts families across the state are struggling with high health care costs,” said Governor Healey. “Deductibles and co-pays are a significant health cost driver, so we are taking action to limit those costs that come right out of the pockets of patients and families.”  

“Massachusetts is home to the greatest health care system in the world, but we need to make it more affordable for people,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “This directive is one tool in our toolkit to lower costs for people and prevent large spikes in deductibles and co-pays.” 

“Deductibles and co-pays have been growing too fast – now outpacing wages and salary growth for our residents,” said Insurance Commissioner Michael Caljouw. “Today’s announcement is an important first step to protecting our residents from these difficult costs.” 

Health care costs are one of the biggest strains on Massachusetts household budgets. CHIA’s most recent Annual Report on the Performance of the Massachusetts Health Care System found that cost-sharing is one of the main drivers of high health care costs and has been growing faster than statewide wages and salaries.  

"Massachusetts ranks first in the country for health care coverage, however many residents can't afford the medical care they need,” said Health Care For All Executive Director Amy Rosenthal. “Health Care For All hears from thousands of callers on our free HelpLine who are struggling to pay their deductibles and co-pays, and those who skip necessary appointments altogether to save money. This directive is a meaningful step in addressing our state’s health care affordability challenges.” 

This action builds on the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s efforts to lower heath care costs. Earlier this year, Governor Healey signed two bills that lower health care costs, cap prescription drug costs at $25, and improve access to primary care and increase oversight of the health care industry to protect patients and providers. She also expanded affordable health care coverage to 260,000 more people in Massachusetts through ConnectorCare. She also signed a bill to increase access to breast cancer screening and early detection treatments for little to no cost and made prenatal vitamins and over the counter (OTC) oral contraceptives free for MassHealth members and Health Safety Net (HSN) patients. 

波士頓慈濟浴佛節為蒼生祈福

波士頓慈濟和嘉賓一起浴佛。（周菊子攝）

         (Boston Orange 周菊子牛頓市報導) 慈濟基金會波士頓聯絡處5月10日早上在牛頓市會所舉行佛誕節、母親節、全球慈濟日的『三節合一』儀式，數十名師兄姐和社區人士，在會場為全球苦難眾生祈福，攜手向世界傳遞希望與溫暖。

波士頓慈濟負責人長金滿（右二起）邀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（右一）等嘉賓參加浴佛節。（周菊子攝）

            駐波士頓台北經濟文化辦事處處長廖朝宏，組長黃耀良，以及波士頓僑教中心主任高家富，專程出席，同為天下蒼生祈福，還在林采彤，黃偉祥，黃湘霏，林毓雅等人的解說中，和當天的社區出席者一同欣賞了，從佛陀足跡，佛教八大聖地，佛陀誕生在藍毘尼等講起的『佛陀的故鄉』展覽。

            慈濟波士頓聯絡處指出，浴佛節是個回歸真正佛教的典禮，以最虔誠尊敬的心，雙手放在『福慧足』上，躬身禮敬，藉以淨化自心，慈濟在這天廣邀各界民眾參加，旨為促使人們以天下蒼生為念，發心助人解除苦難。

波士頓慈濟負責人長金滿（右二起）邀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（右一）等嘉賓參加浴佛節。（周菊子攝）

     10日這天下雨，參加祈福浴佛儀式的人比往年少些，慈濟師兄姐精心籌劃的活動流程，饒有特色，跟著司儀謝宜芳主持的流程，鳴鐘鼓，讚爐香及讀佛偈，列隊輪流上前向佛祖行禮，再一起在誦念無量義經中，還雙掌合十，雙臂高舉的朝天禮拜，邊誦經文邊跺足，和往年的肅立在原地禮拜，頗為不同。

師姐、師兄們列隊上前祈福。（周菊子攝）

            波士頓慈濟聯絡處負責人長金滿在會末告訴廖朝宏處長等人，波士頓慈濟近年來陸續在牛頓市、波士頓市，以及劍橋市設立服務站，舉辦各種活動，豐富社區民眾生活，照顧貧困，救助急難，宣揚吃素環保愛地球觀念。慈濟還申請到波士頓市政府經費，安排過許多次帶耆英採蘋果，逛博物館等活動，擴大耆英們的生活圈，為許多人的生活帶來歡樂。

          長金滿指出，慈濟基金會也是個不計較各人宗教派別，強調入世濟人的機構，歡迎有心為社區服務的人加入，共襄盛舉。

師姐、師兄們列隊上前祈福。（周菊子攝

林采彤姐說佛陀緣起。（周菊子攝）

林采彤姐說佛陀緣起。（周菊子攝）

黃偉祥師兄為「佛陀的故鄉」做導覽。（周菊子攝）

每年浴佛節，波士頓慈濟都會請出透明經營的佛像，接受禮拜。

林毓雅師兄深入講述「鹿野苑」是佛陀第一次宣道的地方。（周菊子攝）

黃湘霏姐解說佛陀在靈鳩山蔣介妙法蓮華經的因緣。（周菊子攝）

Governor Healey and Attorney General Campbell Remind Borrowers of Resources and Rights as Trump Administration Reinstates Involuntary Collection on Student Loans

 Governor Healey and Attorney General Campbell Remind Borrowers of Resources and Rights as Trump Administration Reinstates Involuntary Collection on Student Loans  

BOSTON – Governor Maura Healey and Attorney General Andrea Campbell are sharing resources and reminding student borrowers about their rights as the Trump Administration restarts involuntary collection on federal student loans in default through the Treasury Offset Program. This means the Treasury is starting to collect these debts by garnishing certain federal payments, including federal tax refunds, Social Security benefits, and certain retirement benefits. Federal collections are expected to impact upwards of 100,000 borrowers in Massachusetts. 

To help residents, the state is recommending that all borrowers, including those who know their loans aren’t in default, check on the status of their federal student loans and stay informed on the options available. Borrowers should also be aware of student loan debt relief scams, including phone calls, emails, notices, and/or texts from companies that charge fees to help borrowers pursue debt relief, access more affordable payment plans or resolve defaulted loans.  

Massachusetts borrowers who have a complaint against a student loan servicer or need help navigating their repayment options are encouraged to contact the Attorney General’s Student Loan Assistance Unit, here. 

“This is yet another example of the Trump Administration making life harder and more expensive for people. But here in Massachusetts, our focus remains on making higher education more affordable and accessible for all students,” said Governor Maura Healey. “As part of that, we want to be sure that students are aware of their rights and get the assistance and relief they deserve.” 

“As the Trump Administration resumes aggressive student loan collections, I want Massachusetts borrowers to know that this office is here to protect your rights, connect you with trusted resources, and fight back against predatory practices,” said Attorney General Andrea Campbell. “If you’re struggling with your loans or facing unfair treatment, the Attorney General’s Office stands ready to help you understand and navigate the available options.” 

“Massachusetts is committed to making sure that borrowers find the repayment options that work best for them and aren’t scammed into situations that push them deeper into debt,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “Our administration will continue to support Massachusetts borrowers who are looking for student loan help.” 

“We have a national student debt crisis, and restarting federal loan collection efforts right now is going to disproportionately impact low-income borrowers and increase already expanding wealth inequality. I encourage all borrowers to check their federal student loan status and explore options available to help,” said Education Secretary Dr. Patrick Tutwiler. “In Massachusetts, we remain steadfast in our efforts to make higher education more affordable and accessible because we believe in its potential to enable all students to realize their dreams.” 

“Student loan borrowers have rights and options, even if they are in default. I encourage all borrowers to verify their loan repayment status and review the state resources made available for additional guidance,” said Commissioner of Higher Education Noe Ortega. “Massachusetts has made historic progress on college affordability. As the state works to protect borrowers, we are also telling those considering college about the financial aid programs that do not need to be paid back, like free community college and MASSGrant Plus, which applies at public four-year universities. These programs can reduce the debt burden, and for some students, avoid the need for student loans altogether.”   

The Healey-Driscoll Administration and AG Campbell’s office offered the following information for student borrowers looking for support:  

How can I ensure I get communications about my federal student loans? 

Update your contact information in your studentaid.gov account, including your email address. This is the U.S. Department of Education’s main website for federal student aid and serves as a vital tool for managing federal student loans. 

Borrowers are also encouraged to set up an online account with your loan servicer. Keep in mind that your loan servicer may have changed since the pandemic. If you previously opted to received electronic communications, then bills and other notices are only posted to your online account with your servicer – not sent by regular mail. 

What do I do if I have a federal student loan to repay? 

Borrowers that are in repayment status should receive multiple notifications of their student loan amount owed and repayment plan options, including income-driven repayment options, from their federally contracted loan servicer.  

To check an outstanding federal student loan balance, learn about loan repayment and loan forgiveness options, or make a payment, visit the U.S. Department of Education website: https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/repayment/repaying-101 

How can I find out if my federal loans are in default?  

Borrowers who have not made a required payment in more than 270 days may have their loans in default. You can check on the status of your loan by reaching out to your student loan servicer: https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/repayment/servicers  

How do I get my federal student loans out of default?  

Borrowers in default should contact the U.S. Department of Education’s Default Resolution Group and make a monthly payment, enroll in an income-driven repayment plan, or sign up for loan rehabilitation.  

To learn more about the federal student loan rehabilitation program and consolidation, visit StudentAid.gov/manage-loans or call 1-800-621-3115. 

What is Treasury offset? 

The U.S. Treasury can take your federal tax refunds and a portion of your Social Security payments or other federal benefits to pay a defaulted federal student loan. This is called Treasury offset. On May 5, 2025, the Trump Administration resumed Treasury offset for defaulted federal student loans. 

What do I do if I receive a notice of Treasury offset? 

Typically, before Treasury offset begins, you will receive a written notice. 

• You must take action by the deadline specified in the notice to prevent offset. 

• For most borrowers, the easiest way to avoid offset will be consolidation or rehabilitation out of default, but action must be taken quickly. 

• To prevent offset, a consolidation application must be submitted, or a rehabilitation agreement must be finalized and the first rehabilitation payment received before the deadline in the offset notice (typically 65 days from the notice date). 

In some cases, borrowers may want to make an objection to the offset. You can learn how to make an objection on the U.S. Department of Education’s website. 

How do I avoid scams? 

Look out for companies asking you to pay “enrollment,” “subscription,” or “maintenance” fees to enroll you in a federal repayment plan or forgiveness program. Borrowers do not have to pay to receive help with loan services, including consolidating federal student loans or applying for an income-driven repayment plan. Your student loan servicer can help you with this for free.  

Never give your personal information (like your FSA ID and password, social security number, bank account information) or money to unidentified callers, or to a link provided via text or email. If you are suspicious of a company contacting you, contact your loan servicer or the U.S. Department of Education’s Default Resolution Group at 1-800-621-3115. More tips on spotting scammers can be found on the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s fraud and scams page. 

劍橋合唱團春季音樂會 以多元藝術呈現「流光歲月」

劍橋合唱團演出『流光歲月』音樂會。（周菊子攝）

         (Boston Orange 周菊子麻州報導) 劍橋合唱團5月11日以『流光歲月』為主題，在麻省理工學院Kresge禮堂舉辦2025年春季音樂會，以歌聲，樂器演奏，還有獨白朗誦配舞台默劇的豐富多元表演，讓逾百出席者讚嘆，原來合唱團音樂會還可以這麼辦。

波士頓僑教中心主任高家富（左二）恭喜指揮顏毓芬，團長陳韋同
和副團長林泓安成功舉辦音樂會。（周菊子攝）

5月11日這天適逢母親節正日，劍橋合唱團精心挑選的12首歌曲，把留學生長大成人，出國留學後，從初抵異鄉的青澀，求學期間的努力，陷入愛戀的掙扎，到學有所成後對未來的期盼，都以歌聲唱了出來，劍橋合唱團副團長劉姮秀、林泓安等人配合黃郁婷等人詩朗誦般的「時光日記」獨白做舞台默劇表演，讓這場音樂更為豐富，活潑。

指揮顏毓芬和曾任劍橋合唱團團長的丈夫陳立英，這天和兒子一起過母親節。
（周菊子攝）

12首歌曲從蒙古民歌改編的「牧歌」，臺灣童謠「天烏烏」，泰雅族民謠「收割歌」，到周杰倫編曲的「Mojito」，，「千里之外」，「菊花台」，方文山作詞的「青花瓷」，動感十足的「忠孝東路走九遍」，許美靜「城裡的月光」到張雨生的「我期待」等，包括其中萬芳的「猜心」，梁靜茹的「勇氣」，有許多首是由經典流行歌曲改編的合唱曲，

劍橋合唱團副團長劉姮秀配合演出默劇。（周菊子攝）

劍橋合唱團團長陳韋同在「團長的話」中表示，8年前，他孤身來到波士頓，進MIT讀大學本科，是創辦於1992年的劍橋合唱團陪他走過難熬的求學生涯，讓他在身處異鄉，面對孤寂時，感到溫暖，也讓如今已升讀研究所的他，有動力每週參加練唱。

劍橋合唱團原本是MIT麾下的一個學生社團，2021年獨立成為劍橋地區民間社團後，這還是第一次回到Kresge大禮堂表演。陳韋同形容這讓人感覺有如回家。

大提琴手葉子萱現場演奏。（周菊子攝）

這場音樂會還讓大波士頓愛樂人士看到許多本地音樂人才，包括伊利諾大學音樂藝術博士，現為劍橋合唱團音樂總監兼指揮，大波士頓合唱協會理事的顏毓芬，在波士頓音樂學院主修鋼琴的當晚鋼琴伴奏劉昕甯，伯克利音樂學院畢業的大提琴手葉子萱，吹單簧管的徐暄勛，曾獲法國拉威爾大獎賽特別獎的小提琴演奏家王樂晴等人。

波士頓僑教中心主任高家富這天特地出席音樂會，以示支持，並恭喜指揮顏毓芬，團長陳韋同等人，稱這場音樂會辦得很成功。

小提琴家王樂晴。（周菊子攝）

周晌昀領唱一首歌的最前面幾句。（周菊子攝）

副團長林泓安配合演默劇。（周菊子攝）

陳盈融朗讀時光日記。（周菊子攝）

Ryan朗讀時光日記。（周菊子攝）

高齡78的王北芃今年又回到劍橋合唱團。（周菊子攝）

逾百觀眾出席聆聽劍橋合唱團的2025春季音樂會。(周菊子攝）

劍橋合唱團回到MIT的Kresge禮堂表演。（周菊子攝）

麻州長Healey遞交“可負擔、獨立、創新能源法案” 要為付費者節省100億元

 Governor Healey Unveils Energy Affordability, Independence & Innovation Act to Save Ratepayers $10 Billion 

Legislation saves billions through getting costs off bills, implementing an all-of-the-above energy approach including nuclear, and holding the utilities accountable 

Builds on actions already announced by the Healey-Driscoll Administration to save $6 billion for electric and gas customers over the coming years 

LEOMINSTER – Today, at the Leominster Veterans Memorial Center, Governor Maura Healey filed the Energy Affordability, Independence & Innovation Act to bring down costs for residents and businesses.  

The legislation saves customers money, brings more energy into Massachusetts, and increases accountability of the utilities and drives innovation. Key reforms include eliminating and reducing certain charges on the bill, taking steps to create accountability and ensure utilities aren’t passing unnecessary costs onto ratepayers, and reducing barriers to new cutting-edge nuclear technologies. The administration estimates that the bill will save Massachusetts customers approximately $10 billion over 10 years, on top of the $6 billion in savings estimated from her Energy Affordability Agenda announced in March. 

“Our administration cut taxes and is working to lower costs on every front – from housing to child care to energy,” said Governor Healey. “Massachusetts families and businesses can’t afford big energy price spikes now, or in the future. This bill – along with our energy affordability agenda – gets costs off bills, saves people money, and adopts an all of the above strategy to bring new energy into Massachusetts.” 

“We need to build more housing, attract new businesses and lower energy costs at the same time – that's what this legislation does,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “We worked with businesses, energy experts, developers and universities to put forward the best ideas to drive down costs and get things built in Massachusetts. We’ll help new businesses and housing developments get the energy they need faster, protect ratepayers from subsidizing infrastructure that doesn’t serve them and drive efficiency, accountability, and transparency.” 

“Our comprehensive proposal addresses head-on some of the biggest drivers of price spikes,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “This legislation tackles Massachusetts' lack of homegrown energy, big charges on bills, and an absence of oversight of costly grid upgrades. We’re reining in those costs while still growing our economy and spurring new development across the state.” 

Getting Costs Off Bills 

The administration is proposing to eliminate or significantly reduce charges on the bill. Massachusetts has the highest net metering compensation rates for large, standalone facilities in the country. Reducing the value of net metering credits for new large net metering facilities will lead to a lower net metering surcharge, saving customers an estimated $380 million over 10 years. The legislation also phases out the Alternative Portfolio Standard charge, which costs ratepayers up to $60 million per year and is set to increase. To reduce bill volatility and rate shocks, the legislation requires the DPU to review and reform all charges on bills and establish of a cap on month-to-month bill increases.  

Governor Healey’s proposal uses innovative financing mechanisms to lower the impact of infrastructure and program costs on customer bills without adding new fees or taxes. The legislation allows utilities to finance Mass Save, Electric Sector Modernization Plans, storm response, and other programs through rate reduction bonds, creating the ability to reduce ratepayer costs by up to $5 billion in the first 10 years.  

Bringing More Energy into Massachusetts 

This legislation continues the Governor’s all-of-the-above strategy to bring more energy into Massachusetts and meet rising demand. The bill allows Massachusetts to explore cutting edge nuclear technologies and expands the state’s authority to procure new sources of energy generation, energy storage, and demand response. These reforms will accelerate the development of low-cost electricity generation throughout the region. Giving the state authority to procure energy directly eliminates the fees the state is currently required to pay the utilities for entering into the same contracts, which will save ratepayers billions of dollars over the life of the contracts. The legislation also requires the utilities to update their interconnection process to reduce the time and cost for customers to connect new loads, solar, and storage projects to the grid.  

Governor Healey also proposes to provide the DPU and electric utilities more flexibility in how electric power supply is purchased and prices are set by eliminating the requirement that forces utilities to buy electricity every six months, regardless of current market conditions. This will avoid situations where the utilities are forced to sign bad supply contracts. 

Creating Accountability 

Customers should only be charged for costs associated with delivering power to their homes and businesses. The legislation authorizes the DPU or an outside firm to audit the utilities’ management and operations. Governor Healey’s proposal also explicitly bans the use of ratepayer funds for advertising, lobbying, entertainment, and other costs. This legislation would also empower the DPU to fine the utilities for non-compliance. 

Transmission costs are driving an increase in delivery charges. The bill provides new oversight authority to the Energy Facilities Siting Board to ensure that transmission projects are properly sited and permitted and do not result in unnecessary costs being passed onto ratepayers.  

Powering Innovation & Smart Growth 

The Healey-Driscoll Administration is working to maximize the electric grid. Governor Healey’s proposal establishes “Energy Ready Zones” to proactively build out utility infrastructure that supports housing and economic development without increasing costs to ratepayers at large.  

Supporting the Customer 

Governor Healey is putting forward a compromise proposal to end unscrupulous practices in the competitive supply industry. The legislation bars the most predatory marketing practices, eliminates automatic renewals and variable rate contracts, establishes new licensing requirements for door-to-door and telemarketing firms, and strengthens oversight. These reforms will help stop the industry from overcharging residential customers while retaining the ability for customers to shop for their own electricity supply.  

The legislation also authorizes gas companies to own and operate geothermal heat loops that serve individual customers, helping support universities, hospitals, and other large building owners afford geothermal heating and cooling – the most efficient heating and cooling technology available – while insulating other ratepayers from associated costs.  

Governor Healey’s bill prohibits utility shutoffs during periods of heat waves due to financial hardship. The bill also expands the moderate-income discount rate to gas customers, which will help hard-working people and families pay their heating bills.  

Additionally, the Governor’s proposal authorizes the utilities to establish programs that allow individual customers to finance clean heating, weatherization and other home upgrades through their bills over time, reducing the need for up-front incentives paid for through utility rates. 

The legislation builds on the Energy Affordability actions already announced by the Healey-Driscoll administration that lowered energy bills for Massachusetts residents by $220 million starting in April and will save nearly $6 billion for electric and gas customers over the coming years. This started with a $50 credit on electricity bills in April. 

MAYOR MICHELLE WU, BUILDING TRADES UNIONS, AND CARPENTERS SIGN LANDMARK AGREEMENT TO CREATE NEW PATHWAYS FOR DIRECT ENTRY FOR MADISON PARK GRADUATES INTO UNION APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMS

 MAYOR MICHELLE WU, BUILDING TRADES UNIONS, AND CARPENTERS SIGN LANDMARK AGREEMENT TO CREATE NEW PATHWAYS FOR DIRECT ENTRY FOR MADISON PARK GRADUATES INTO UNION APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMS

Project Labor Agreement for Boston Public Schools will also ensure a consistent supply of skilled workers for the Long-Term Facilities Plan

BOSTON - Tuesday, May 13, 2025 - Mayor Michelle Wu today signed a landmark agreement with the Greater Boston Building Trades Unions and the North Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters to create a new and expanded direct pathway for graduates of Madison Park Technical Vocational High School to good-paying, stable union jobs in the construction trades. This commitment is part of a Project Labor Agreement (PLA) for the Boston Public Schools (BPS) Long-Term Facilities Plan, ensuring a consistent supply of skilled, union labor for major BPS capital projects. 

“It is a historic day for Boston Public Schools and Madison Park. This agreement is a statement on the City of Boston’s values, delivering three major wins, for our schools, our students and our partners in the trades,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “We are doing this because our students deserve every improvement, every opportunity, and expansion of resources now. They deserve spaces to build lifelong friendships and expand professional networks and develop the skills to serve at every step of their journey.”

"After graduating Madison Park, I didn’t have a clear plan. I didn’t have access to college or a roadmap to a sustainable career. That all changed when I discovered a pre-apprenticeship program called Building Pathways that prepared me for a career in the building trades unions. After graduating Building Pathways, I got the chance to start my career on a site covered by a Project Labor Agreement. Through a PLA negotiated by the unions, I didn’t just get a job, I built a career. When we commit to union labor through a PLA, we’re not just hiring workers, we're investing in families. We're putting real wages into the hands of parents who are raising the next generation. We’re investing in our neighborhoods, small businesses, and community centers. This PLA is an engine of economic growth. It ensures local hiring, so the people building these schools are the same people who walk these streets, ride the T, send their kids to these classrooms. It means more of our young people are getting into a lifetime career. The ripple effects of this PLA will be felt for decades creating stable pathways to home ownership, to save for the future, and building stronger, safer communities. This is how we fight inequality, not with words, but with work. With opportunity. With good union jobs,” said Chaton Green, Business Agent, Greater Boston Building Trades Unions. 

Under Mayor Wu’s administration, the City of Boston has dedicated an increasing share of its capital budget to accelerate the pace of major school construction projects through the Long-Term Facilities Plan. This PLA ensures that all major BPS capital projects moving forward will have a consistent supply of skilled, union labor. These projects must be completed quickly and carefully sequenced to minimize disruptions to school communities. By signing this PLA, the City is creating greater efficiency and stability in large-scale, multi-step projects, while aligning with the City’s equitable procurement and supplier diversity standards to expand opportunities to women- and minority-owned businesses. Future school projects will be evaluated for potential inclusion in the PLA after a case-by-case review, as required by the Mass Leads Act, the economic development bill signed by Governor Maura Healey in November 2024.

"This landmark agreement creates real opportunities for students, especially young women and students of color, to thrive and build long lasting, fulfilling careers in the city they call home," said BPS Superintendent Mary Skipper. "Throughout the district, we are creating pathways to college and career in areas like health care, education, the arts, and the building trades. This agreement ensures that Boston will have a skilled, qualified workforce well into the future."

The PLA also specifies that graduates of Madison Park will have direct entry into the Building Pathways pre-apprenticeship program. Building Pathways is a non-profit organization founded by the Greater Boston Building Trades Unions dedicated to the recruitment, retention, and advancement of under-represented groups in the union building trades, particularly women, people of color, and young adults. Madison Park offers six Ch. 74-certified vocational programs aligned with the building trades: Carpentry; Electricity; Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC); Metal Fabrication; Plumbing; and Building and Property Maintenance. According to the terms of the PLA, the top-performing half of each graduating class from each of these six programs at Madison Park––up to 50 students per year––will have guaranteed admission into Building Pathways, followed by admission to a registered apprenticeship program. Madison Park will be the only technical vocational school in Massachusetts to offer its graduates direct entry into apprenticeship programs at this scale.

“Madison Park should and will be the best technical vocational high school in the country,” said Paul Neal, Head of School at Madison Park Technical Vocational High School. “I’m grateful to have Mayor Wu’s partnership to give Madison the level of support that will uplift our students today and for their long term success, and I want to thank the Building Trades Unions for working with us to create these opportunities right in the heart of Roxbury.”  

This expanded partnership with the building trade unions is a continuation of Mayor Wu’s and Superintendent Skipper’s commitment to immediate investment in Madison Park––including expanding co-op opportunities for students and modernizing curriculum and technology––even as the City continues its planning and design work for a re-designed Madison Park campus. In April 2025, the City and BPS submitted a Statement of Interest to the Massachusetts School Building Authority’s Core Program to seek state support for the project. 

The PLA also commits to enhancing childcare opportunities for workers in the participating unions by exploring the creation of a trust fund to subsidize the cost of high-quality childcare, similar to the trusts that the unions currently administer for health insurance and pension benefits. This builds on the City’s ongoing efforts, in partnership with the Care That Works coalition, to create more options for high-quality childcare for workers with non-traditional schedules. 

The BPS Long-Term Facilities Plan commits to dramatically overhauling the district's physical footprint, with multiple complex projects underway simultaneously. Since 2022, the City has completed the Boston Arts Academy, the Josiah Quincy Upper School, and the new Horace Mann School (in the former Edwards building); and has broken ground on the new Carter School (on track to open in September 2025), a gut renovation of the Irving building for the new Sarah Roberts Elementary (on track to open in September 2025), and a major renovation and expansion of the PJ Kennedy Elementary School (on track to be complete in September 2025). The City has successfully secured state support from the Massachusetts School Building Authority for the Shaw-Taylor Elementary School and the Ruth Batson Academy with several more schools, including Madison Park. This is more major capital projects underway at once than has been completed in the last 40 years combined.