Ben Downing將出掌麻州清潔能源中心

Ben Downing to Lead Massachusetts Clean Energy Center

Downing is the current Chief Growth Officer at MIT’s The Engine, previously served as Senate chair of energy committee

BOSTON – The Board of the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) voted to appoint Ben Downing as the next Chief Executive Officer. Downing is currently the Chief Growth Officer at The Engine, a nonprofit incubator and accelerator built by MIT to support climatetech, biotech, and advanced infrastructure startups. He also previously served as a State Senator representing the Berkshires and as Senate Chair of the Joint Telecommunications, Utilities, and Energy Committee.

"Massachusetts is home to some of the world’s leading climatetech companies, and many of their successes can be attributed to Ben Downing’s visionary leadership in the Legislature and the support he has spearheaded for startups at The Engine,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Our administration is deeply committed to growing our innovation economy. With strong support authorized under the Mass Leads Act, Ben will steer our climatetech industry and over 162,000 climatetech workers to its next chapter.”

“Today, Massachusetts’ climatetech and clean energy industry has deep roots in communities across the state,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “It’s unionized offshore wind workers on the South Coast, battery manufacturers in the Merrimack Valley, HVAC and solar installers throughout the state, and so much more. I know Ben will be looking out for those who will be building the solutions to climate change and lower energy bills in our communities.”

“I am thrilled to join MassCEC to lead this next, critical chapter and grateful to the Board, Governor Healey, Lieutenant Governor Driscoll, and Secretary Tepper for the opportunity,” said Downing. “My experience has taught me that Massachusetts can be the place where the solutions to climate change are invented, built, and deployed. Doing so affordably requires activating all of the state’s resources. I’m excited to help MassCEC do just that with our partners in the Healey Administration, the Legislature, the clean energy and climatetech sectors and more. Let’s get to work.”

“Ben impressed me with a bold vision with tangible next steps for MassCEC,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper, who chairs the MassCEC board. “Ben has deep knowledge of our offshore wind industry and port communities, personal relationships with our climatetech companies, and, as a Berkshire County native, a commitment to advancing economic growth statewide. I also want to thank Dr. Jennifer Le Blond for her steady leadership as we made this transition. I’m glad she will continue to be an important part of the MassCEC team leading work with Massachusetts climatetech startup companies.”

Downing is the Chief Growth Officer at The Engine, working hands on with climatetech and biotech startups. In that capacity, he supported, advised, and worked with some of the most promising and impactful teams from Commonwealth Fusion Systems, Form Energy, VEIR, Sublime Systems, Lydian Labs, Atlantic Quantum, Vaxess, Foundation Alloy, Cellino Bio, Robigo, and many more. He helped them secure hundreds of millions in federal awards, build significant connections, and make significant investments across Massachusetts.

Prior to this role, he was Vice President of New Market Development for Nexamp, a clean energy company focused on community solar and lowering customer utility bills. Downing led strategic expansion working nationally with a specific focus in Midwest and Mid-Atlantic. Beginning in 2007, Downing served as State Senator representing his home district in the Berkshires. As the Senate Chair of the Joint Telecommunications, Utilities, and Energy Committee, he helped shape Massachusetts’ clean energy and climatetech policy, including authorizing the first offshore wind procurement, investments in the New Bedford Marine Commerce Terminal, support for workforce development, and energy affordability initiatives to rein in costs. He committed to term limits and departed the Legislature in 2017. He was a candidate for Governor in 2022. Downing lives in East Boston with his wife and two sons.

“Ben brings a rare combination of policy experience, hands-on startup leadership, and deep relationships across the climatetech ecosystem,” said Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley. “At a time of growing global competition in climatetech, Ben is the right leader to help MassCEC strengthen our innovation pipeline, support companies as they scale, and ensure this industry continues to deliver economic growth across Massachusetts.”

“It’s been a pleasure to lead the agency during this transition period, and I’m looking forward to continuing to work with Ben in his new role,” said MassCEC Interim CEO Dr. Jennifer Le Blond. “Massachusetts’s climatetech industry continues to expand. MassCEC staff work hard every day to make Massachusetts the state where climatetech companies stay and grow.”

Downing’s tenure will begin in April 2026. He will take over for Dr. Jennifer Le Blond, who has served as interim CEO since November 2025. Le Blond will return to her role leading the Emerging Climatetech Team at MassCEC.  

 

Statements of Support:

Alicia Barton, CEO, Vineyard Offshore:

“I’m thrilled to see Ben Downing take the helm of MassCEC at this critical moment for Massachusetts’ energy future. Ben has already made a transformational impact on the Massachusetts economy by helping craft the legislation that launched the offshore wind and climatetech industries. Ben understands that rapidly deploying clean energy is the best way to ensure that energy stays affordable and reliable, and I know he will chase every opportunity to drive economic growth in every corner of the state.”

 

Zaid Ashai, CEO, Nexamp:

“I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Ben Downing and seeing his leadership firsthand. As a Massachusetts-based clean energy company, Nexamp has experienced the impact of strong public-private partnership in building this industry, and Ben has been a meaningful part of that progress. He understands how to connect smart policy with real economic growth, job creation, and clean energy deployment. His deep commitment to affordability and access, combined with his experience in both industry and public service, makes him exceptionally well-suited to lead MassCEC. We look forward to partnering with Ben and his team to continue strengthening Massachusetts’ position as a national clean energy leader.”

Emily Knight, CEO & President, The Engine:

"Ben has been an extraordinary leader at The Engine for the past four years, helping Tough Tech startups move from prototype to pilot to production across Massachusetts, particularly in the energy and climate sectors, from fusion to sustainable fuels. He understands firsthand the challenges of scaling breakthrough technologies and how critical early public-private partnerships are to de-risking first-of-a-kind deployments. His leadership at MassCEC will help provide founders across the Commonwealth with a partner who knows how to connect startups, industry, national labs, and state agencies to support transformative companies building and scaling here in Massachusetts. We are deeply grateful for his contributions to The Engine and look forward to continuing to work closely together to support the next generation of Tough Tech companies."

 

Dan Goldman, Managing Partner, Clean Energy Ventures:

“Congratulations to Ben Downing on his appointment as President of MassCEC. We commend Governor Healey on this appointment and for her continued leadership in strengthening Massachusetts’ clean energy economy. At Clean Energy Ventures, we’ve valued MassCEC as both a thought partner and a co-investor in scaling promising climate technologies, and we look forward to working with Ben, who brings extensive policy, finance and market perspectives on this industry, to support the next generation of innovators across the Commonwealth.”

波士頓市公佈第一份針對健康不公所做的黑人壽命報告

MAYOR MICHELLE WU, BOSTON PUBLIC HEALTH COMMISSION ANNOUNCE FIRST BLACK LIFE EXPECTANCY REPORT AND EFFORTS TO ADDRESS LONGSTANDING HEALTH INEQUITIES 

City and partners are investing $2 million to address health disparities faced by Boston’s Black communities 

BOSTON - Friday, February 27, 2026 – Mayor Michelle Wu today announced the first-ever report analyzing life expectancy among Black residents in Boston as a part of the Boston Public Health Commission’s (BPHC) Live Long and Well Agenda. This will be the first in a series of reports addressing the health needs of diverse populations in Boston. Closing the Gap: An Examination of Life Expectancy Among Black Residents in Boston shows that Black residents continue to have the lowest life expectancy of any racial or ethnic group in the city.

From 2013 to 2024, the life expectancy gap between Black residents and their neighbors doubled, increasing from 3.3 years to 6.6 years. Between 2022 and 2024, Black women had an average life expectancy of 80.1 years, about 6.4 years fewer than their counterparts. During that same period, Black men had an average life expectancy of 71.8 years, 9.3 years fewer than other men in Boston. This represents the lowest life expectancy of all groups included in this analysis. Projections for the next ten years show that if no additional and meaningful action is taken to address the inequities Boston’s Black communities face, the life expectancy gap will remain the same through 2035.

To address the health disparities outlined in this report, the City and Boston Public Health Commission are announcing new partnerships and initiatives, including:  

·       A $1 million investment from BPHC’s annual operating budget to fund organizations working to improve Black men’s health. 

·       A new partnership with Dana-Farber Cancer Institute to invest $1 million in cancer prevention, treatment, and other community-based initiatives that tackle the key drivers of premature mortality.  

·       The Black Men’s Health Activation Summit will bring together local leaders to discuss the challenges facing Black men and make recommendations on priorities for BPHC’s investment.  

·       The Mayor’s Live Long and Well Advisory Council will help City leaders implement the Live Long and Well Agenda and support the work being done to address health disparities in Boston.  

“Every Boston resident deserves the opportunity to thrive in their city. This report makes clear that we have more work to do, and we’re acting with urgency — launching new partnerships with healthcare leaders and investing in community-based organizations, focusing specifically on improving Black men’s health and strengthening prevention efforts across our neighborhoods,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “Through our Live Long and Well Agenda, we’re bringing together residents, advocates, and institutions to confront these inequities head-on and build a healthier future for everyone in our city.”

“Our life expectancy report reveals data that are stark, jarring and longstanding in our city. We are committed to addressing racial health inequity and ensuring that all Bostonians live long, healthy lives,” said Dr. Bisola Ojikutu, Commissioner of Public Health for the City of Boston. “This report underscores the importance of our Live Long and Well Agenda, a multi-sector partnership aimed at raising awareness and developing new strategies to address the root causes of health inequities experienced by Black Bostonians. Together, in partnership, we can and we will do better.” 

“Boston cannot call itself a healthy city while Black residents continue to die years earlier than their neighbors. This widening life expectancy gap is the result of systemic inequities, not individual choices, and it is preventable, said City Councilor Ruthzee Louijeune (At Large). “We have seen progress when we invest intentionally in equity-centered solutions. Now we must act with urgency and sustained commitment to ensure every Bostonian has the opportunity to live a long and healthy life.”

“This partnership with the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute for the health of our Black communities is more than collaboration — it’s a declaration that our communities have the right not just to survive, but to thrive, said City Councilor Henry Santana (At large). “I’m proud to stand with the dedicated public servants at the Boston Public Health Commission and the frontline healthcare workers who show up every day for our residents. Together, we are breaking down barriers to care, confronting health disparities head-on, and building a future where quality healthcare is not a privilege — it is a promise. Because health equity isn’t optional, it’s justice.”

"Black boys and girls, Black women and men deserve to grow old. And if we’re serious about that, then our policies and investments have to undo the conditions that keep these disparities in place. This report lays out, plain as day, the exact fault lines we need to confront as a city if we want Black Bostonians to have the same shot at a long, healthy life as anyone else,” said City Councilor Brian Worrell (District 4). “That means targeted solutions for our residents who are more likely to die earlier from cancer, heart disease, and overdoses. But it also means we zoom out and do the systemic work: investing in access to health care, fresh food, safe spaces to move our bodies, and the kinds of neighborhood conditions that make healthy living possible in the first place.”  

“As chair of the Civil Rights Committee, I believe this report reminds us that civil rights must be understood broadly. On the last Friday of Black History Month, we have honored over the last few weeks, and rightly so, the pillars of the movement — voting rights, housing rights, and equal opportunity. But health, longevity, and quality of life for everyone are civil rights issues too,” said City Councilor Miniard Culpepper (District 7). “The investments announced today through the Live Long and Well initiative are an important step forward. And together, we can build a Boston where a person’s life expectancy is not determined by their race or their zip code”

The Black Life Expectancy Report indicates three leading causes of premature mortality for Black people in Boston are unintentional overdose, cancer, and cardiometabolic disease. For Black men specifically, the fourth highest cause of death is homicide. To help address these disparities, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is partnering with BPHC and providing $1 million in funding for cancer screening and prevention for Boston’s Black residents. This investment is one of several Live Long and Well Agenda partnerships. In July 2024, BPHC and the Boston Community Health Collaborative began utilizing a $10 million investment from Atrius Health Equity Foundation to support community-led efforts to improve financial well-being in neighborhoods with poor cardiometabolic health, directly addressing the root causes of heart disease and diabetes.

"We know from the data produced by Boston Public Health Commission, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and our partners that we have pervasive inequities in cancer outcomes," said Dr. Christopher Lathan, Chief Clinical Access Officer for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. "The barriers to access are high in our communities, and Dana-Farber is thrilled to participate in this bold collaboration to reduce the cancer burden in the city of Boston. This effort will accelerate the progress of achieving true equity in cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment and care.” 

The Mayor’s Live Long and Well Advisory Council will bring together diverse leaders representing the city’s healthcare, nonprofit and community organizations. This Advisory Council aims to ensure efforts that address health disparities are shaped by people with professional expertise and lived experience advancing equitable health outcomes. The 30-member group will develop initiatives that reflect the cultural, social, and economic realities of Boston’s diverse communities, foster cross-sector collaboration, and serve as ambassadors representing the Live Long and Well mission in their institutions and communities.   

“As a member of the Mayor’s Live Long and Well Advisory Council, I have seen firsthand the City’s commitment to confronting the root causes of inequities that shape health across a lifetime. Life expectancy is not simply about health care — it reflects whether our communities have access to stable housing, quality education, economic opportunity, safe neighborhoods, and culturally responsive care,” said Dr. Elsie Taveras, Chief Community Health and Equity Officer at Mass General Brigham and Chair of the Boston Board of Health.

“The Mayor’s Office of Black Male Advancement stands firmly in partnership with the Boston Public Health Commission to confront the health disparities of Black men, boys, and families across Boston,” said Frank Farrow, Executive Director of the Office of Black Male Advancement. “BPHC’s efforts to close gaps in life expectancy among Black residents is guided by community voice and grounded in data with a focus on developing long term solutions through collective action. It is critical that we continue to build a comprehensive plan to improve quality of life and ensure every resident has the resources to live long and well in the City of Boston.”

The Black Men’s Health Activation Summit will take place on June 3, 2026. The Summit’s goals are to identify priorities for BPHC’s $1 million investment in organizations that support and uplift Black men’s health. The Summit will bring together leaders, advocates, providers, and community partners to generate sustainable solutions that advance health and opportunity. Participants will engage in four discussions: Strengthening Systems, Equity, Access, and Economic Mobility; Advancing Prevention, Wellness, and Holistic Health; Centering “Behavior & Health” in Behavioral Health; and Building Community, Strengthening Connection, and Mobilizing Collective Action. 

"Black Bostonians have long known that health and longevity are often out of reach, but these findings show just how harmful systemic racism is to the lives of Black people,” said Michael Curry, President and CEO of the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers. “While this report will be a revelation to many, I appreciate the City of Boston and the Boston Public Health Commission for shining a light on this hard truth and taking action to address it. For the past 60 years, Boston’s community health centers have focused on overcoming the social factors that make people sick, and we are eager to continue our work with partners across the city to end this crisis.”

Structural racism and marginalizing social conditions, such as housing instability, lack of economic mobility, food insecurity, chronic stress, and limited access to quality healthcare, are significant factors driving premature mortality. Addressing these root causes requires both sustained investments in the conditions that shape health and interventions that reduce harm and improve access to care. The Live Long and Well Agenda provides the framework to align policy, funding, and cross-sector action aimed at changing the systems that perpetuate health disparities. More information about the Live Long and Well agenda can be found on boston.gov/live-long.  

Healey 州長簽法案，設立塔斯克基飛行員紀念日

Governor Healey Signs Bill Establishing Tuskegee Airmen Commemoration Day  

BOSTON – Yesterday, Governor Maura Healey ceremonially signed An Act Establishing the Fourth Thursday in March as Tuskegee Airmen Commemoration Day, formally recognizing the service, sacrifice, and contributions of the African American military aviators known as the Tuskegee Airmen. The Governor was joined at the signing by Brigadier General Enoch “Woody” Woodhouse and Dr. Harold May, both Massachusetts veterans and Original Tuskegee Airmen, as well as Veterans Services Secretary Eric Goralnick, MD,MS, Major General Gary Keefe, Senator Cindy Friedman and Representative Michelle Ciccolo.  

  

“This law honors and pays tribute to the extraordinary bravery and patriotism of the Tuskegee Airmen who served our nation with distinction and shaped our history,” said Governor Healey. “By establishing Tuskegee Airmen Commemoration Day in Massachusetts, we ensure that future generations understand their role in advancing equality and excellence in our service. Thank you to Senator Friedman and Representative Ciccolo and all of the veterans and their families for advocating for this important bill.” 

 

“This important commemoration ensures that the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen remains a permanent part of our shared history,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “It tells the full story of their service and recognizes the Tuskegee Airmen as an example of patriotism, excellence and perseverance.” 

 

Tuskegee Airmen Commemoration Day, a bill sponsored by Senator Cindy Friedman and Representative Michelle Ciccolo, requires the Governor to issue an annual proclamation on the fourth Thursday in March. The observance provides an opportunity for Massachusetts to honor the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen and reflect on the lasting impact of their service on the nation’s military and civil rights history. 

 

The Tuskegee Airmen were the first African American military pilots and aircrew in United States history, trained as part of a groundbreaking program during World War II at Tuskegee Army Air Field in Alabama. Between 1941 and 1946, nearly 1,000 pilots graduated from the program, and more than 14,000 men and women served as pilots, navigators, bombardiers, mechanics, instructors, nurses and support personnel. Today, fewer than a dozen Original Tuskegee Airmen are believed to remain living nationwide. 

 

"Establishing Tuskegee Airmen Commemoration Day ensures that their achievements and unwavering commitment to our nation will be remembered for generations to come," said Secretary Goralnick . "It was a great honor to stand alongside Brigadier General Woody Woodhouse and Dr. Harold May — heroes whose lives embody the very best of our Commonwealth and our country.” 

 

“The Tuskegee Airmen embodied courage and an unshakable belief in a country that did not always believe in them," said Senate President Karen Spilka (D-Ashland).  "By establishing Tuskegee Airmen Commemoration Day, Massachusetts affirms that their service and sacrifice will never be forgotten, and that their fight for equality is inseparable from our ongoing work to build a more just Commonwealth. We are deeply honored to recognize their extraordinary legacy.” 

 

“Our Commonwealth has a strong dedication to recognizing and honoring the service of our veterans — and the Tuskegee Airmen should be no exception considering the remarkable bravery and fortitude these service members possessed,” said Senator Cindy Friedman (D-Arlington). “I am incredibly proud of the work that the New England Chapter of Tuskegee Airmen – specifically the work of my constituent, Sean Osborne – does to shine a light on stories of residents who, while lesser-known, make up the rich history of Massachusetts and our nation. I thank Sean for working with me and Representative Ciccolo to bring attention to our Tuskegee Airmen and for getting this bill to the Governor’s desk.”  

"I was immensely proud to file this bill on the House side, especially as we witness repeated attempts to erase Black history throughout the country,” said Representative Michelle Ciccolo (D-Lexington). “Thank you to the advocates who brought this issue to my attention. This timely bill's passage will ensure that we recognize and remember the Tuskegee Airmen's history and legacy of excellence." 

 

“The Tuskegee Airmen are forever legends in American history,” said Representative Joe McGonagle, House Chair, Joint Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs (D-Everett). “I am eternally grateful for their sacrifice and service. I am also incredibly proud of Governor Healey and my colleagues in the Legislature for taking the initiative to cement their legacy in Massachusetts; to be honored year after year. This is what true patriotism looks like.”  

  

"As Tuskegee Airmen Commemoration Day approaches, Senator Velis and our office are grateful that Governor Healey has signed this important legislation into law today. Establishing this day of recognition ensures that Massachusetts will continue to honor the courageous Tuskegee Airmen whose bravery, service, and achievements broke barriers and paved the way for future generations of Black servicemembers," said a spokesperson for Senator John Velis (D-Westfield), who is currently on active duty with the National Guard.  

 

In March 2023, Governor Healey created the Executive Office of Veterans Services to serve veterans of all branches, eras, and backgrounds, supporting them from the moment they leave military service through every stage of civilian life. Through this work, the Administration has focused on expanding access to benefits, improving care at the state’s veterans homes, and strengthening mental health and suicide prevention services. 

 

藝術愛默生訂3/5-8演出奇幻偶戲「滅絕如渡渡鳥（Dead as a Dodo）」

Adam Kissick for APAP.

            (Boston Orange編譯)藝術愛默生                            （ArtsEmerson）將於3月5日至8日在愛默生卡特勒大劇院（Emerson Cutler Majestic Theatre）搬演5場國際知名劇團Ｗakka Wakka去年在紐約「雷達下藝術節(Under the Rader Festival )」中大放異彩的偶戲視覺劇「滅絕如渡渡鳥（Dead as a Dodo）」。

Ｗakka Wakka劇團曾獲戲劇桌獎（Drama Desk Award）提名，2024年在芝加哥國際偶戲節首演「滅絕如渡渡」這齣戲，2025

Richard Termine攝

年到紐約演出時，獲「紐約時報」盛讚為給人視覺震撼且充滿想像力傑作，結合了戲偶與原創音樂，把觀眾帶進一個關於生命與任性的奇幻世界。這回來麻州做波士頓的首演。

劇名中的“渡渡（Dodo）”是曾經生活在印度洋島嶼上，但不會飛行的奇特鳥類，在17世紀就已徹底滅絕，因而在西方文化中，「Dead as A Dodo」已經成為形容“徹底消失，無可挽回”的經典成語。

這齣戲也以此為引，講述一隻本應已“滅絕”的渡渡鳥和一名骷顱男孩，在一個古怪的地下世界，每日不斷挖掘骨頭，在這隻渡渡鳥意外重新長出羽毛，引發一場在冒險中自我轉變的逃亡。創作這藉著這樣的架構，以天馬行空的視覺創意，探討人類與遺失物種間的情感連結，感受混亂美學。

「滅絕如渡渡鳥（Dead as a Dodo）」獲有挪威藝術委員會、吉姆漢森基金會、挪威外交部、FFUK 和 Sea-Cargo AS等機構及組織的贊助。

David Zadig攝

       5場演出時間為，2026 年 3 月 5 日（週四） 19:30， 3 月 6 日（週五） 20:00， 3 月 7 日（週六） 14:00， 3 月 7 日（週六） 20:00， 3 月 8 日（週日） 14:00。演出地點在天滿街219號(219 Tremont St, Boston)的Emerson Cutler Majestic Theatre 。演出日期為2026 年 3 月 5 日 – 3 月 8 日（共五場演出），門票$27.50 起（10 人以上團體購票享 7 折優惠）。購票可上網ArtsEmerson.org ，或電洽 617-824-8400 。

State Public Health Officials Announce First Two Confirmed Measles Cases in Massachusetts this Year

State Public Health Officials Announce First Two Confirmed Measles Cases in Massachusetts this Year Residents are reminded of the importance of MMR vaccine in preventing measles BOSTON (February 26, 2026) – The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) confirmed today that two cases of measles have been diagnosed in Massachusetts residents. The first case was reported in a school-aged Massachusetts resident who was exposed and diagnosed out of state and remains out of state during the infectious period. There are no known exposures to others in Massachusetts. The second case was diagnosed in an adult who lives in Greater Boston. The individual recently returned from international travel and had an uncertain vaccination history. During their infectious period, the individual visited several locations where exposures to others likely occurred. State and local public health officials are working with these locations to identify and notify those who were potentially exposed. These two cases of measles in Massachusetts have occurred in the context of a large national outbreak of measles and a very large international outbreak. Although there is no evidence of the spread of measles within Massachusetts at this time, additional cases could occur. View a 10-year table of vaccine-preventable disease reports in Massachusetts.  “Our first two measles cases in 2026 demonstrate the impact that the measles outbreaks, nationally and internationally, can have here at home. Fortunately, thanks to high vaccination rates, the risk to most Massachusetts residents remains low,” said Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein, MD, PhD. “Measles is the most contagious respiratory virus and can cause life-threatening illness. These cases are a reminder of the need for health care providers and local health departments to remain vigilant for cases so that appropriate public health measures can be rapidly employed to prevent spread in the state. This is also a reminder that getting vaccinated is the best way for people to protect themselves from this disease.”  Early symptoms of measles occur 10 days to 2 weeks after exposure and may resemble a cold (cough, runny nose, and red eyes), usually with fever. A rash occurs 2-4 days after the initial symptoms develop. The rash usually appears first on the head and then moves downward. The rash typically lasts a few days and then disappears in the same order.  People with measles may be contagious up to four days before the rash appears and four days after the day the rash appears. Measles is a potentially serious illness, with complications occurring in approximately 30 percent of infected individuals, including immune suppression, pneumonia, diarrhea, and encephalitis, which may be life-threatening. Those who were exposed to measles and develop symptoms should call their health care provider before visiting an office, clinic, or emergency department. Visiting a health care facility without calling in advance may put others at risk and should be avoided. Anyone who has had measles in the past or has received two doses of the vaccine is unlikely to develop measles, even if exposed. People who have had measles, or who have been vaccinated against measles per the DPH Guidance for Vaccines are considered immune. The Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine offers the best protection against measles and the serious complications associated with infection. The DPH recommendations for the MMR vaccination are: Children: Children should receive their first dose of the MMR vaccine at 12-15 months. School-aged children need two doses of the MMR vaccine.  Adults: Adults should have at least one dose of the MMR vaccine. Certain groups at high risk need two doses of the MMR vaccine, such as international travelers, health care workers, and college students. Adults born in the U.S. before 1957 are considered immune to measles from past exposures.  People who are exposed to measles and have not been vaccinated are at risk for developing measles and will need to avoid all public activities until they are no longer at risk of developing disease. This means that unvaccinated, exposed people will need to miss daycare, school, work, and other activities. Anyone concerned about measles is advised to contact their health care provider to confirm their immunization status and get vaccinated, if needed. For additional information, contact your local health department or DPH at 617-983-6800. To learn more about measles, visit the DPH website.

波士頓市長吳弭 訂3/5晚首度進社區辦公

           （Boston Orange編譯）波士頓市長吳弭（Michelle Wu）將於 2026 年 3 月 5 日（週四）晚上 6:00 至 8:00，在洛士百利（Roxbury）的布魯斯·波林市政大樓（Bruce C. Bolling Municipal Building）舉辦首屆「市長辦公時間」，以更親民的和民眾接觸。

                吳弭市長表示，市政府最重要的工作就是為所有市民找出方法，改善生活品質，她期待3月5日這晚，能和大家見面，分享資訊，解決問題，促使更多人參與市政。

                 吳弭在今年1月的就職演說中承諾，要建立直接溝通管道，讓市民能夠向市長，以及各部門官員，當面述說問題。

                   3月5日晚的服務重點包括辦理選民登記、人口普查登記、列印出生與結婚證明等行政事務，也讓民眾繳交停車罰單、申請殘障停車位或公園活動許可。現場還將透過Great Starts 平台，讓民眾申請波士頓幼稚園到12年級（ Pre-K 及 K-12 ）的入學申請，同時歡迎民眾諮詢青年就業、小企業資源、房地產稅減免、住房穩定及社區安全等各方面問題。

                  波士頓警察局、公共衛生委員會、房屋辦公室及 311 團隊等超過 15 個波士頓市府部門將派員出席，為民眾辦理各項服務，解答提問。波士頓青少年與家庭中心（BCYF）將為兒童安排活動，並在現場提供茶點與免費贈品。

                 查詢詳情，可上官方網站 boston.gov/officehours，或撥打 311 與市長社區服務辦公室聯繫。

MAYOR MICHELLE WU ANNOUNCES FIRST-EVER OFFICE HOURS 

Office Hours with the Mayor will bring City Hall out of City Hall and directly to residents

BOSTON – Friday, February 27, 2026 – Mayor Michelle Wu and the Community Engagement Cabinet announced the first-ever Office Hours, a family-friendly one-stop opportunity for Boston residents from across the city to connect directly with the Mayor, City services, and department staff to have their questions or concerns answered in real time. The event will take place on Thursday, March 5, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Bruce C. Bolling Municipal Building in Roxbury.

Office Hours with the Mayor are designed to get City Hall out of City Hall and into neighborhoods, where constituents can meet with city staff to get assistance, ask questions, and connect with resources. During Mayor Wu’s inaugural address in January, she shared her goal of creating Office Hours as an opportunity to connect directly with residents, hear what’s working and what’s not, and unstick any city service issues in real time. 

 

“Our most important job at the City is to find solutions and deliver services to improve quality of life for all our residents,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “I’m looking forward to seeing everyone at this first Office Hours to share information, address issues, and get even more people involved in city government.”

 

During Office Hours, residents will have access to several City services. This includes registering to vote, completing census registration, printing certified copies of birth, marriage and death certificates, applying for handicap parking, paying for parking tickets, and submitting a permit for park usage to host sports or special events. Additionally, families will be able to complete applications for Boston Pre-K and Boston Public Schools (BPS) K-12 programs through the Great Starts platform, with staff available to guide residents through the process. Additional services and information from various City departments will be available.

 

“Office Hours reflect the Mayor’s commitment to meeting residents where they are and making City Hall more accessible and responsive,” said Brianna Millor, Chief of the Community Engagement Cabinet. “By bringing together City departments under one roof, we’re creating a space where community members can ask questions, share feedback, and connect directly with the resources and services that matter most to them. We’re excited to welcome residents from across Boston for an evening of meaningful conversation and on-the-spot support.”

 

Residents are encouraged to come prepared to ask questions and receive information on a broad range of city topics, such as youth employment opportunities, resources for small businesses, property tax relief and exemptions for older adults and homeowners, housing resources, and community safety initiatives. Community members will also be able to learn more about Boston Family Days, Community Safety, Boston Rodent Action Plan, and White Stadium, among other initiatives. Additionally, Boston 311 will be on-site to create and look up service requests, and residents can learn how to use the Boston 311 mobile app as a tool to stay connected to City Hall. Neighborhood liaisons will be present to engage with constituents. 

 

Departments attending Mayor’s Office Hours include 311, Age Strong Commission, Assessing, Boston Police Department, Boston Public Schools, Boston Public Health Commission, Inspectional Services Department, Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture, Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Advancement, Office of Housing Stability/Mayor’s Office of Housing, Office of Neighborhood Services, Streets, Public Works, Registry: Birth, Death, and Marriage, Veterans’ Services, Boston Water and Sewer, and Youth Engagement and Advancement (OYEA). 

 

During Office Hours, there will be engaging and fun activities for children led by The Boston Centers for Youth & Families (BCYF) City Hall Childcare Program. Refreshments and free giveaways will be available throughout the event. 

 

For more information and updates, visit boston.gov/officehours, contact the Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Services at 617-635-4500 or call 311.

麻州參議員Nick Collins舉辦馬年新春慶祝會

麻州參議員Nick Collins（中）和紐英崙養生舞協會合影。（參議員辦公室提供）

              (Boston Orange)麻州參議員柯林斯 （Nick Collins）和麻州議會亞裔核心小組合作，2月26日早上，在麻州參議會閱讀室，慶祝農曆馬年新春，50多人歡聚一堂。

            柯林斯議員不但親自在會場迎接到會民眾，送上馬年祝福，還帶大家參觀麻州參議會議事廳，邀紐英崙養生舞協會共同創辦人黃周麗桃，以及在州政府多個機構前後任職逾28年，剛退休的的阮鴻燦，站上參議會主席台，接受表揚。

麻州參議員Nick Collins（中）和他的華裔助理為馬年新春慶祝會致詞。

            紐英崙養生舞協會，台山鄉親聯誼會舞蹈團，楓葉舞蹈團這天也應邀婆娑起舞，為麻州參議會議事廳帶來難得一見的亞裔文化氣息。

            麻州的參眾議會，共有200名議員，其中40人為參議員，160人為眾議員。在過去這200多年來，亞裔一直是參眾議會中的“稀有人種”。

麻州參議員Nick Collins（中）和麻州眾議員黃子安（右）。

            從麻州議會於1780年分成參眾兩會以來，麻州參議會迄今只出過2名亞裔參議員，分別是2009年當選，2022年卸任，父親是有四分之一華裔血統太空人陳福林（Franklin Chang-Diaz）的陳翟蘇尼（Sonia Chang Diaz），以及2017年當選，2021年1月卸任的越南裔Dean Tran。

            麻州眾議會的亞裔議員人數多些，最早是2009年有陳德基和黃子安這2名華裔雙雙當選為眾議員，並連任迄今。

            麻州眾議會的亞裔核心小組，如今共有7人。在黃子安和陳德基之外，2025年有母親來自上海的Paul Schmid退休，有日華裔混血，代表牛頓市的馬惠美（Amy Mah Sangiolo），以及打敗Rady Mom，代表羅爾市（Lowell）的柬埔寨裔Tara Hong當選。

            連任在位的有代表somerville的Erika Uyterhoeven，以及代表羅爾市(Lowell)的柬埔寨裔Vanna Howard，代表安多福鎮（Andover）的越南裔Tram Nguyen。

            不過Vanna Howard已於2月3日民主黨初選中獲勝，將於3月3日為麻州參議員Edward James Kennedy Jr. 於去年10月辭世遺缺所辦的補選中，和同為柬埔寨裔的共和黨籍參選人Sam Meas競爭。

台山鄉親聯誼會舞蹈團和楓葉舞蹈團合影。

            代表安多福鎮（Andover）的麻州眾議員Tram Nguyen則是正和曾任波士頓市長幕僚長的高丹尼（Dan Koh）競爭，看誰能於9月的民主黨初選中，成為代表民主黨角逐麻州聯邦眾議員Seth Moulton席位的人。

            一旦Vanna Howard和Tram Nguyen當選，麻州就會陸續有2個眾議員席位出缺，又要辦補選了。

台山鄉親聯誼會舞蹈團陳晶年（左二）等人合影。

            柯林斯的這場慶祝會原本安排在2月24日舉行的，只是很不巧，23日一場超大風雪襲捲麻州，降雪將近20英寸，迫不得已改期後，由於各地積雪很嚴重，道路又濕滑，華人前進會組織專員鄺寶蓮透露，許多老人家原本想藉這機會，參觀一下麻州參議會，為了怕摔倒，只好放棄。  （所有圖片由Nick Collins辦公室提供）

紐英崙養生舞協會共同創辦人黃周麗桃致詞。(黃周麗桃提供）

紐英崙養生舞協會共同創辦人周美桃（前中）等人合影。

Nick Collins助理介紹表演團隊。

Nick Collins馬年新春慶祝會出席民眾欣賞表演。

麻州參議員Nick Collins（前右一）和紐英崙養生舞協會起為扇舞擺姿勢。
（黃周麗桃提供）