NEW ENGLAND AQUARIUM WHALE WATCH IN PARTNERSHIP WITH BOSTON HARBOR CITY CRUISES RETURNS TO BOSTON HARBOR FOR 2026 SEASON

Photo Credit: Naturalist, Sydney Cicero

     （Boston Orange編譯）新英格蘭水族館（Aquarium）與「波士頓海港城市遊船（Boston Harbor City Cruises）」合作推出的賞鯨活動，5月18日正式啟動新一季航程，邀民眾從波士頓港出發，近距離觀察海洋生態的體驗。                                            主辦單位表示，今年賞鯨季開幕正值波士頓迎來熱鬧的海濱夏季，包括「波士頓高桅帆船節（Sail Boston）」等大型活動將吸引來自世界各地的遊客，為港區增添觀光亮點。

        賞鯨船每天從中央碼頭（Central Wharf）出發，航行前往Stellwagen Bank國家海洋保護區。該區為全球知名的鯨類覓食地，可觀察到座頭鯨、長鬚鯨、小鬚鯨，以及海豚與多種海鳥。航程約3至4小時，由水族館專業自然學家隨船解說，介紹鯨類行為、生態系統及海洋保育知識。

賞鯨船隻採高速雙體船設計，設有寬敞戶外觀景甲板、室內恆溫座艙及大型窗戶，並提供餐飲服務與簡餐。賞鯨活動自5月持續至11月，每日安排多個班次。

      主辦單位指出，每年賞鯨季皆帶來不同觀察體驗，無論是首次或多次參與的遊客，都能感受海洋生物的魅力。同時，營運方持續推動永續措施，包括減少一次性塑膠使用、改用可堆肥餐具及取消販售瓶裝水，以降低對環境的影響。

      更多航班資訊與訂票詳情可至CityExperiences.com查詢。

NEW ENGLAND AQUARIUM WHALE WATCH IN PARTNERSHIP WITH BOSTON HARBOR CITY CRUISES RETURNS TO BOSTON HARBOR FOR 2026 SEASON

Boston’s Beloved Whale Watching Experience Returns May 18 as Boston Prepares for a Landmark Summer on the Waterfront

Boston, MA (May 18, 2026) – The New England Aquarium Whale Watch in partnership with Boston Harbor City Cruises (BHCC) will launch its 2026 season today, May 18, 2026, welcoming guests back to Boston Harbor for another unforgettable season of whale watching and marine wildlife encounters just off the coast of Massachusetts.

This year’s opening arrives as Boston prepares for one of its most exciting summers on the water in recent memory, with Sail Boston® and other major waterfront celebrations expected to bring visitors from around the world to the city’s historic harbor.

Departing daily from Central Wharf, the New England Aquarium Whale Watch transports passengers to Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, a globally recognized feeding ground for humpback whales, fin whales, minke whales, dolphins, seabirds, and other marine life. Throughout each cruise, Aquarium naturalists provide live educational narration and insight into whale behaviors, conservation, and the marine ecosystem of New England waters.

“There’s nothing like the first whale watch departure of the season in Boston,” said Bob Lawler, General Manager and Regional Vice President of Boston Harbor City Cruises. “As we head into an incredibly vibrant summer on the waterfront with Sail Boston® and so much excitement surrounding Boston Harbor, we’re thrilled to once again partner with the New England Aquarium to provide an experience that is inspiring, educational, and uniquely Boston.”

The cruises run approximately three to four hours aboard high-speed catamarans featuring expansive outdoor viewing decks, climate-controlled indoor cabins with large windows, and onboard food and beverage service including a full bar and light snacks available for purchase.

“This is always a special time of year, when passengers are once again setting sail for an up-close look at the incredible marine life off our shores,” said Vikki N. Spruill, President and CEO of the New England Aquarium. “We look forward to welcoming locals and tourists alike to deepen their understanding of the ocean and the importance of ocean conservation—how our daily choices affect marine ecosystems and what we can do to help protect them—during a particularly exciting year for the City of Boston.”

From May through November, New England Aquarium naturalists sail aboard every trip helping guests identify species, interpret animal behavior, and understand the importance of protecting marine ecosystems.

“Each whale watch season is different, offering new experiences and insights,” said Linnea Mayfield Kaplan, BHCC Naturalist Manager. “Aquarium naturalists are eager to get back out on the water and share the wonder of these animals with passengers of all ages. Whether it’s someone’s first whale sighting or their fiftieth, those moments never lose their magic.”

Furthering its ongoing commitment to sustainability, BHCC continues efforts to reduce single-use plastics onboard whale watch vessels, including compostable food containers and the removal of plastic water bottles from onboard menus.

Multiple whale watch departures will be offered daily throughout the season. To view schedules and learn more, visit CityExperiences.com.

BHCC will be running multiple whale watch cruises a day. To see the schedule and learn more, visit the New England Aquarium Whale Watch on CityExperiences.com: New England Aquarium Whale Watch in Partnership with Boston Harbor City Cruises

Governor Healey Further Limits Growth of Health Care Deductibles and Co-Pays

 Governor Healey Further Limits Growth of Health Care Deductibles and Co-Pays 

Under new action, Massachusetts will have tightest limits on out-of-pocket costs in the country, saving patients $232 per year 

BOSTON — Governor Maura Healey is announcing that her administration has taken further action to limit growth in health care deductibles, co-pays and other out-of-pocket costs for patients in 2027. Under guidance issued by the Division of Insurance, health insurance companies will be required to limit increases in patient cost-sharing to 3.6 percent for plans sold in the merged market beginning in January 2027, down from 4.8 percent. 

With this new action, Massachusetts will have the tightest limits on these out-of-pocket costs in the country, saving patients an estimated average of $232 per year. This comes after Governor Healey capped deductibles, co-pays and other out-of-pocket costs for the first time in state history last year. 

“We know that families across Massachusetts are struggling to afford health care, and unpredictable out-of-pocket costs are a major driver of that,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Last year, I was proud to become the first governor in Massachusetts history to cap co-pays and deductibles, and now we’re lowering that cap even further. These will be the tightest limits in the country to make sure the people of Massachusetts can afford to get the care they need.” 

“The quality of health care in Massachusetts is unmatched, but often becomes a financial burden for our residents,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “With this latest cap on deductibles and co-pays, we're limiting the amount of money that comes directly out of the pockets of patients and families.” 

“Health care cost pressures are front and center, and this action protects families at a time when they need our assistance more than ever,” said Commissioner of Insurance Michael Caljouw. 

The Division of Insurance’s merged market guidance requires insurers to demonstrate that average member cost sharing across these products will not increase by more than 3.6 percent, as reflected in the five-year average change in inflation measured by the Consumer Price Index for the Boston region. This action is the result of legislation signed by Governor Healey in 2025 that increased the Insurance Commissioner’s consideration of affordability during his monitoring of the merged market. 

This action builds on the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s efforts to lower health care costs, including two bills signed by Governor Healey in 2025 to 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. Governor Healey has also eliminated prior authorization for many routine and essential services and created a Health Care Affordability Working Group charged with advancing additional proposals to reduce costs for people and businesses across the state.

Massachusetts Senate to Take Up Bill Targeting Potholes, Failing Bridges, and Aging Transit

 Massachusetts Senate to Take Up Bill Targeting Potholes, Failing Bridges, and Aging Transit Regionally equitable approach includes funding for public transit and housing development support 

(BOSTON—5/18/2026) The Senate Committee on Ways and Means today reported a $2.737 billion bond bill to help fix local roads and bridges, invest in public transit infrastructure, and support housing development statewide. 

The bill—H.5375, An Act financing long-term improvements to municipal roads and bridges—addresses local repairs from pesky potholes to bridges requiring maintenance with a total of $300 million to support municipal road and bridge repairs.  

Support is included for all cities and towns through a $200 million bond authorization for the traditional Chapter 90 program, while an additional $100 million would boost rural areas through distribution based on communities’ road mileage. 

In addition to Chapter 90 funding, the bond bill will support high-priority repair projects with $500 million in borrowing for MassDOT’s Lifecycle Asset Management Program, which fast-tracks repairs for pavement and bridges considered to be in the worst condition. 

The plan pairs traditional road and bridge construction with long-term planning and improvements, such as $200 million aimed at spurring new housing construction with capital projects such as stormwater management, culverts, and bike and pedestrian infrastructure. 

The legislation would boost the Department of Conservation and Recreation with $200 million in borrowing to repair and modernize transportation infrastructure under the department’s care. It also supports the MBTA with $200 million to implement rail improvements, vehicle modernization, and new vehicle procurements at the public transit agency. 

The Senate plans to take up the bill during a session this week. Full details are available in a fact sheet in the Senate press room. 

The House of Representatives passed the bill in April, based on legislation originally filed in January by Governor Maura Healey. The Joint Committee on Transportation had recommended a new draft in March after seeking feedback at a public hearing, following which the Joint Committee on Bonding, Capital Expenditures and State Assets held a public hearing in April and favorably reported the bill. 

All committee votes are publicly posted on the Legislature’s website. 

Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $535,000 in Summer Child Nutrition Grants

Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $535,000 in Summer Child Nutrition Grants

Funding supports 55 organizations hosting Summer Eats meal sites to help feed kids over the summer months

EVERETT – The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced today that they have awarded a total of $535,000 in state funding to 55 organizations that sponsor and operate Summer Eats meal sites across Massachusetts. This funding follows the administration’s call for additional organizations to sponsor Summer Eats meal sites and supports additional meal sites and expanded food access for children.

Summer Eats provides children 18 years of age and younger with free, healthy meals over the summer months when they do not have access to school meals. Meal sites include schools and other community locations, from parks to summer camps.

“We are making sure that no child in Massachusetts goes hungry during the summer months,” said Governor Maura Healey. “As families face rising grocery costs and federal cuts to food assistance, programs like Summer Eats are more important than ever. These grants will help expand access to free, healthy meals so kids can stay nourished, active and ready to learn all summer long. We’re grateful to the organizations across Massachusetts stepping up to make sure kids have access to healthy meals all summer long.”

“Summer Eats works because of the local partners who show up for kids and families in every corner of our state,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “This funding helps more communities open sites, reach more children and make sure families know where to turn for free, healthy meals during the summer.”

Summer Eats, formally known as the Summer Food Service Food Program, is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. In Massachusetts, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) administers the Summer Food Service Program and provides sponsors with technical support. Project Bread’s Child Nutrition Outreach Program provides outreach assistance. 

The administration has been focused on expanding access to healthy, local food for families and children, including making universal free school meals permanent and creating an Anti-Hunger Task Force. In collaboration with the task force, the administration recently released recommendations that included strengthening nutrition programs, including increasing Summer Eats participation in communities most impacted by the federal government’s cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

“We know that families’ grocery bills increase in the summer when kids do not have access to school meals. With federal cuts to SNAP benefits and rising food insecurity, access to programs like Summer Eats has never been more important. I am pleased we are able to offer this funding, helping expand healthy food access for kids during summer months across the state,” said Secretary of Education Steve Zrike.

“Hunger does not take a break in the summer,” said Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Pedro Martinez. “Our commitment to supporting children and families includes healthy meals so that students can keep growing and learning in the summer months.”

Many Summer Eats programs will open before July 4 and will continue serving meals through the end of August. For more information on Summer Eats, including how to become a site sponsor, call Project Bread at 617-723-5000. During the summer, families can find meal sites through Project Bread’s website. 

Last summer, an average of 59,000 kids received a meal daily at a Summer Eats site, and 2.5 million meals were served. 

“Providing free access to breakfast and lunch every day at all public schools in Massachusetts is one of my proudest achievements from my time in the legislature,” said Senator Jason Lewis, Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Education. “Summer Eats is a critical program to ensure children continue to have reliable and nutritious meals when school is out of session.”

“The Legislature and the Administration have worked hard to ensure students across the Commonwealth have access to universal school meals,” said Representative Ken Gordon, House Chair of the Joint Committee on Education. “I’m proud that we are now extending this essential support through the summer months, helping ensure no child goes hungry when school is out.”

“Project Bread partners with new and returning Summer Eats providers to ensure that this critical program continues to support families statewide while kids are home during the summer months,” said Erin McAleer, president and CEO of Project Bread. “Summer Eats is a vital program for the 37 percent of Massachusetts households with children currently struggling to afford enough to eat. We are proud to partner with the Healey-Driscoll administration and DESE on the program to strengthen and boost participation so children across the Commonwealth can have free healthy meals all summer long.”  

“On behalf of the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents, we applaud the Healey-Driscoll Administration and DESE for the investment in the Summer Eats program,” said Dr. Mary M. Bourque, executive director of the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents. “Access to nutritious meals during the summer months is essential to supporting the health, well-being, and readiness of children across the Commonwealth. These grants will help communities strengthen critical supports for students and families when school is not in session.”

“At YMCAs across Massachusetts, we see firsthand how critical reliable access to healthy meals is for children and families during the summer months,” said Kate-Marie Roycroft, CEO of the Alliance of Massachusetts YMCAs. “These Summer Eats grants help ensure that kids can continue to grow, learn, and thrive even when school is out of session. We’re grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for prioritizing child nutrition and supporting community-based organizations that are working every day to combat food insecurity and strengthen family well-being across the Commonwealth.”  

“The Massachusetts Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs applauds the Healey-Driscoll Administration for their continued commitment to ensuring children across the Commonwealth have access to healthy meals during the summer months,” said Jennifer Aldworth, executive director of the Massachusetts Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs. “Programs like Summer Eats are critical for families facing rising food costs and help ensure young people remain healthy, active, and ready to learn. Boys & Girls Clubs across Massachusetts are proud to partner in this important effort and serve as trusted community spaces where youth can access nutritious meals, supportive relationships, and enriching summer experiences.”

The grant awardees are:

Belchertown Public Schools: $8,895

Blackstone-Millville Public Schools: $2,225

Boys & Girls Club of Greater Haverhill: $2,225

Boys & Girls Club of Greater Lowell : $8,895

Boys & Girls Club of Greater Westfield: $11,120

Boys & Girls Club of Lynn: $11,120

Boys & Girls Club of Metro South: $10,705

Boys & Girls Club of Stoneham: $6,670

Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston: $15,520

Brockton Public Schools: $13,340

Cape Cod YMCA: $11,120

Chicopee Public Schools: $13,340

Church of the Holy Spirit: $15,560

City of Cambridge: $15,560

Clarksburg School District: $4,445

Crossroads for Kids: $11,120

Dedham Public Schools: $11,120

Fitchburg Public Schools: $8,070

Friendly House, Inc.: $9,835

Gill-Montague Regional School District: $7,410

Girls Incorporated of Lynn: $6,665

Greater Fall River Re-creation: $15,560

Hockomock Area YMCA: $8,895

Lee Public Schools: $6,670

Lowell Public Schools: $17,400

Merrimack Valley Food Bank: $2,515

Merrimack Valley YMCA: $890

MetroWest YMCA: $11,115

Millbury Public Schools: $6,160

Monson Public Schools: $2,445

Mystic Valley YMCA: $8,705

New Bedford Recreation Department: $8,895

New Bedford Public Schools: $17,785

Newton Public Schools: $4,445

North Adams Public Schools: $12,170

North Attleborough Public Schools: $6,670

Northampton Public Schools: $3,320

Old Colony YMCA: $8,515

Oxford Public Schools: $1,945

Pittsfield Public Schools: $11,605

Ralph C. Mahar Regional School (in Orange): $4,445

Reading Public Schools: $8,895

Revere Public Schools: $15,560

Rockland Public Schools: $13,340

Salem Public Schools: $13,340

Shaloh House Oholei Torah: $8,895

Southbridge Public Schools: $6,670

Spanish American Center, Inc.: $8,895

Spencer-East Brookfield Regional School District: $7,585

Springfield Public Schools: $20,010

Triton Regional School District: $11,120

Waltham Boys & Girls Clubs: $13,335

Worcester Public Schools: $13,340

YMCA of Greater Boston: $20,010

YMCA of Metro North: $8,895

昆市商會和亞美會攜手辦講座談租金管制

亞美聯誼會新任會長宋思亮（左一）和昆市商會董事謝樂兒（右一）與主講人
Connor Yunits（右二）。（周菊子攝）

   （Boston Orange綜合報導）昆市商會與 Housing for Massachusetts（麻州住房倡議團體）合作，日前攜手亞美聯誼會(AAAB)在 Alba 餐廳舉辦「租金管制」講座，向社區說明租金管制議題，以及麻州住房市場可能受到的影響。

主辦單位提供。

      “租金管制（Rent Control）”並不是新議題，但在Homes for All Massachusetts （麻州居者有其屋）等團體倡議下，麻州州務卿辦公室網站，已有編號為 25-21，正式名稱為「一項旨在透過限制租金上漲來保護租戶的倡議請願（An Initiative Petition to Protect Tenants by Limiting Rent Increases）」的公投提案，要將大多數住宅出租單位的年度租金漲幅限制在“消費者物價指數（ CPI）” 年增幅或 5% 之中的較低者。

該法案條文包括，自住型且四戶或以下的建物、受公共機關規範的單位、少於14天的短租、教育與宗教用途設施、非營利用途設施，以及取得首次使用執照的新建住宅 在前10 年內可豁免租金漲幅限制規定。

提案也要求，若違反相關規定，將被視為麻州 chapter 93A 下的不公平或欺騙性行為，州檢察長可依法提起訴訟。

主辦單位提供。

在 5 月 6 日的講座中，代表Housing for Massachusetts（麻州住房倡議團體）的“議題管理集團（Issue Management Group）”執行副總裁Conor Yunits以簡報片，向大約75名出席者，說明租金管制雖然看似能在短期內減緩部分租客的租金壓力，但長期來說可能影響住房供給、房屋維修投資與地方稅基。他們指出，若房東出租房屋得到的回報受限，可能降低新建與翻修意願，進一步影響市面上供出租單位數量。他們反對租金管制，認為這並不能從根本解決住房短缺問題，真正需要做的是增加住宅供應量與維持市場投資動能。

主辦單位提供。

在租金管制議題上，支持方主張，在租金快速上漲、住房供給不足的情況下，租金管制可保護，幫助現有租客維持居住穩定，避免被市場排擠。對許多中低收入家庭而言，穩定的租金與可預期的居住成本，是保住生活安全感的重要條件。

主辦單位提供。

租金管制公投案目前已完成第一輪連署門檻。支持方已送交約 88,000 份有效簽名，超過法定要求的 74,574 份；若州議會未在5月底通過，支持者還需要在7月1日以前，再補交約 12,429 份符合要求的簽名，才有機會列印在 11 月大選的選票上。

        公開資訊顯示，波士頓市長 吳弭（Michelle Wu ）支持租金管制，麻州州長奚莉（ Maura Healey ）則持反對立場。這議題是今年麻州大選的一大議題。

紐約古根漢美術館「從藝術學習」計劃展出 200件小學生作品

（Boston Orange摘譯）紐約古根漢美術館長期駐館教育計畫 「從藝術學習（Learning Through Art（LTA））」推出「與孩子們的一年2026（A Year with Children 2026）」，即日起至6月7日展出來自紐約市五大行政區公立學校 2 至 6 年級學生的200多件作品。

展覽作品涵蓋拼貼、繪畫、版畫、攝影與雕塑等形式，呈現學生在身份、社群、敘事與創作探索上的成果。作品源自2025至2026學年度的LTA駐校課程，課程由教學藝術家與教師合作進行，歷時約20週，並結合館內參觀，引導學生從館內藝術家作品汲取靈感，再轉化為自己的創作。

學生參考的藝術家包括羅伯特・勞森伯格（Robert Rauschenberg）、加布里埃爾・明特（Gabriele Münter）、娜塔莉亞・岡察洛娃（Natalia Goncharova）、拉希德・約翰遜（Rashid Johnson）與卡羅爾・波維（Carol Bove）等人。古根漢學習部主任希特拉・拉馬林甘（Chitra Ramalingam）表示，LTA讓孩子在教室、社區與日常生活中被看見，並把他們的作品帶進美術館與其他藝術家並列展出。

LTA創立於1970年，至今已服務超過15萬名紐約市學生。古根漢方面指出，這項計畫旨在補足公校藝術教育資源，並透過展覽擴大學生創作的公共能見度。展覽獲Lavazza Group、紐約市文化事務局及多個基金會與企業支持。。

Guggenheim Arts Education Program, Learning Through Art, Presents A Year with Children 2026

(NEW YORK, NY—May 8, 2026) The Guggenheim New York’s long-standing artist-in-residence education program, Learning Through Art (LTA), presents A Year with Children 2026. On view today through June 7, 2026, the exhibition features more than 200 imaginative artworks—including collages, drawings, paintings, prints, photographs, and sculptures—by students in grades two through six from New York City public schools across the five boroughs.   

During LTA classroom residencies in the 2025–26 academic year, educators and teaching artists explored themes of identity, community building, experimentation, storytelling, and agency. Students had the opportunity to engage an array of practices and techniques, drawing inspiration from artists on view at the Guggenheim New York, including Robert Rauschenberg in  Robert Rauschenberg: Life Can’t Be Stopped, Gabriele Münter in Gabriele Münter: Contours of a World, and Natalia Goncharova in Modern European Currents. Over the past year, students also examined the sculptural works of Rashid Johnson and Carol Bove through both artists’ major rotunda surveys. 

“Learning Through Art meets young people where they are—in their classrooms, their communities, and their everyday lives. We bring their work into our galleries, alongside the other artists on view, to celebrate their creativity. Come by and be inspired!” says Chitra Ramalingam, Director of Learning. 

「伊底帕斯王」上演日期展延至6月14日

演員Juan Arturo 和 Melisa Pereyra 

 （Boston Orange波士頓訊）波士頓知名劇場機構亨廷頓劇院（The Huntington）刻正在南端藝術中心Calderwood Pavilion演出的「伊底帕斯王（ㄏ）」，原訂演出日期為5月7日至6月7日，現展延一週至6月14日。

藝術總監洛蕾塔・葛雷柯（Loretta Greco）

「伊底帕斯王（Oedipus El Rey）」是美國劇作家路易斯・阿爾法羅（Luis Alfaro）改編自索福克勒斯（Sophocles）的代表作，由藝術總監洛蕾塔・葛雷柯（Loretta Greco）執導，結合古希臘經典與當代美國社會議題，自公佈以來就受到劇場界高度關注。

改編版故事背景轉移至洛杉磯拉丁裔社群。劇情講述一名年輕男子試圖掙脫命運與制度束縛、重寫人生，但最終仍不得不面對宿命的殘酷。作品透過監獄體系、家庭關係與社會階級等議題，探討「命運」與「體制」之間的界線。

該劇自2010年於舊金山Magic Theatre首演後，便廣受好評，2017年於紐約公共劇院（The Public Theater）的外百老匯製作亦引發劇評熱議。《San Francisco Chronicle》曾形容該劇為「神話與現代的強力融合」，而《TheatreMania》則稱其為「既迫切又歷久彌新的作品」。不少觀眾回饋指出，劇中對美國司法與監禁制度的批判「令人不安卻無法忽視」，同時也因幽默與街頭語言的運用，使沉重主題更具親近感。

劇作家路易斯・阿爾法羅（Luis Alfaro）

在波士頓演出的版本，採用「三面舞台（thrust stage）」設計，強調觀眾與演員之間的近距離互動，提升戲劇張力。導演葛雷柯表示，阿爾法羅的作品橫跨詩歌、戲劇與社會行動，「能跨越文化與世代產生共鳴」，她期待將這部兼具人性深度與當代語感的作品帶給波士頓觀眾。

劇作家阿爾法羅則指出，這部作品關注的核心問題——「我們的社會究竟是由命運還是制度所塑造」——在當今美國仍然高度相關。他特別提到，美國對監獄體系的依賴持續加深，使得該劇的現實意義不減反增。

本次演出卡司包括Juan Arturo飾演主角Oedipus，Gabe Martínez飾演Laius，Melisa Soledad Pereyra一人分飾Jocasta與神秘角色Sphinx等，集結多位活躍於百老匯與全美劇場的重要演員。製作團隊則由多位長期與亨廷頓合作的設計師組成，涵蓋舞台、燈光、服裝與原創音樂等領域。

值得一提的是，阿爾法羅過去作品較少在波士頓上演，此次製作也被視為他與該城市劇場觀眾的一次「重要重逢」。劇院方面表示，票價自29美元起，並提供學生與青年觀眾優惠，希望吸引更多不同背景的觀眾走進劇場。

隨著美國社會對種族、司法與社會正義議題的持續討論，《Oedipus El Rey》此次在波士頓的上演，被視為一部結合古典與現實、藝術與政治的重量級作品，預計將在當地文化圈引發新一波討論熱潮。

波士頓國民黨訂6月5日晚辦僑宴歡迎黨主席鄭麗文

鄭麗文，維基百科圖片。

（Boston Orange周菊子波士頓報導）國民黨（KMT）主席鄭麗文將訪問波士頓，本地國民黨已定6月5日晚在華埠龍鳳舉辦僑宴，另籌備為黨員及社區大眾分別舉辦兩場座談會的消息，近日在坊間傳得沸沸揚揚，已有超過200人搶訂僑宴席券。

鄭麗文在今年4月底時透露，將訪問美國舊金山、洛杉磯、波士頓、紐約、華府等五個城市。原有行程並不包括波士頓，但是MIT、哈佛都拋出重量級晤談邀約，因此在重新規劃了行程安排。最近甚至考慮赴德州一行。

波士頓國民黨常委張韻蘭表示，大波士頓僑胞非常關切鄭麗文的到訪，查問電話不斷，但因鄭麗文未落實所有行程，波士頓黨部只確定了6月5日晚僑宴，其他的2場座談會，日期、時間及地點，還要看鄭麗文等一行10人訪問團最後敲定MIT和哈佛等的交流行程，才能做最後安排。

過去這兩星期以來，關於鄭麗文訪美的相關報導，層出不窮。鄭麗文在最近流傳坊間的一段視頻直言，過去台灣常被視為第一島鏈的戰略前線，但是東亞地區如今已發展成爲全球經濟與科技重鎮，應朝「和平繁榮」方向重新定位。她這次訪美，主要是要向美方傳達台海應「避戰、促和、創造和平繁榮」的訊息，並主張台灣不應被視為戰爭前線，而應轉化為區域和平與繁榮的連結點。

鄭麗文指出，她和中共總書記習近平會面時，彼此都展現了希望兩岸和平穩定的善意與誠意，要進一步促進和平，降低敵意、避免戰爭。她也強調，要達成這目標，美國的態度與支持至關重要，台海局勢若能朝和平發展，不僅有利兩岸，也符合美國及整個區域的利益。

鄭麗文訪美的具體行程，目前仍在安排中，哈佛大學與 MIT 也未正式公布是否將舉行公開活動或閉門晤談。

麻州第25區眾議員選舉5/28有場候選人論壇

 (Boston Orange編譯) 劍橋透明與問責委員會 (CCTA) 等團體訂 5 月 28 日晚間 7 時，在聖詹姆斯教堂大廳 (St. James Church Hall) 舉辦第 25 米德爾塞克斯區（Middlesex）候選人論壇，邀請麻州眾議員馬喬里·德克 (Marjorie Decker) 與挑戰者埃文·麥凱 (Evan MacKay) 辯論州議會問責議題。

這是2名候選人首次在公開論壇正面交鋒。雙方曾於 2024 年競選同一席位，但並未舉辦過公開辯論，選舉結果是德克 (Marjorie Decker) 以 41 票之差勝出。

透明化與問責制已成為近期選民關注的重點。2024 年州審計案以超過 70% 的支持率通過，但在落實時面臨阻礙。此外，本屆議會正處理兩項已達簽署門檻的選民倡議：津貼改革 (stipend reform) 與公共紀錄 (public records)。

這次的候選人論壇由麻州行動 (Act on Mass)、州議會改革聯盟 (Committee to Reform Our Legislature) 及劍橋透明與問責委員會 (Cambridge Committee for Transparency and Accountability) 共同主辦。上述團體長期致力於推動法案改革，提升州議會運作的透明度與效能。

麻州文化委員會撥發867萬元資助97機構修繕設施

Old Colony Historical Society, Taunton的修繕計劃。

(Boston Orange編譯) 麻州文化委員會（Mass Cultural Council）與麻州發展局（MassDevelopment）5 月 15 日宣布，撥發8,676,600 美元文化設施基金（CFF），資助麻州 97 家非營利及市政文化機構修繕與擴建設施。

這次撥款主要分為三類：75 家機構獲得總計 8,165,000 美元的資本補助金（Capital grants），用於建築收購、設計及翻修工程；16 家機構獲得 463,600 美元的可行性與技術援助建議（Feasibility & technical assistance grants）；另有 6 家機構獲撥 48,000 美元，用於制定系統更換計劃（Systems replacement plan grants）。

根據公告，本輪獲資助機構中，有 38 家為首次獲得該基金撥款，其中 24 家為初次申請者。代表性項目包括位於牙買加平原（Jamaica Plain）的多元文化課後藝術計畫（Multicultural After School Arts Program），獲得 200,000 美元用於塞奇威克街（Sedgwick Street）新校舍的首期裝修；老殖民地歷史學會（Old Colony Historical Society）得169,100 美元，將用在湯頓（Taunton）建停車場及開發戶外花園展區。

所有獲選項目均須遵守 1:1 的配對資金要求。麻州文化委員會代理執行主任大衛·斯萊特里（David T. Slatery）與麻州發展局總裁納維特·巴爾（Navjeet Bal）強調，這筆是支持當地創意經濟與公共空間的實質投入。

文化設施基金由麻州議會於 2006 年設立，資金來源於州長資本支出計劃。2026 財政年度，麻州政府投入 1,000 萬美元。自 2007 年至今，該基金已累計撥款超過 1.89 億美元。麻州政府在 2026 年經濟發展債券法案《麻州獲勝法案（Mass Wins Act）》中提議，將進一步擴大該基金的適用範圍，以納入更多市政設施。下一輪資助申請預計於 2026 年秋季開放。

在97個獲得資助的機構中，至少有3家以亞裔為主要服務對象。

波士頓音協十載紅樓夢音樂會 200人演繹詩朗誦器樂演奏與合唱

波士頓中國音樂家協會《紅樓雅韻 夢聆十載》全曲音樂會謝幕。（周菊子攝）

 (Boston Orange 周菊子麻州報導) 波士頓中國音樂家協會（BCMA）5月9日在阿靈頓高中演出兩場《紅樓雅韻 夢聆十載》全曲音樂會。甄若矛和胡陳喆鈞指揮近200人，演繹王立平作曲、張列改編的1987版電視連續劇《紅樓夢》經典配樂，深情回望該會的10年前首演。

後排左二起，曾燕琴，黃少堅，張正山，林湛濤，甄若矛，
胡陳喆鈞，傅東東等主辦人員和樂團合影。（周菊子攝）

這次的《紅樓夢》演出，籌備歷時半年，邀得聲樂家和獨唱者8人和音協麾下的中西樂團，合唱團，絲竹樂團，青少年樂團，室內合唱團等5大樂團合作，結合獨唱、合唱、器樂合奏和王曉梅詩詞朗誦的完整演繹了15首《紅樓夢》經典組曲。音協也藉這次演出，向去年辭世的前指揮郭天生致敬。

謝幕大合照，合唱團成員散得太快，沒入鏡。（周菊子攝）

節目由音協副會長暨主持人曉梅以故事串聯全場，先由中西樂團合奏《鳳陽花鼓》、《茉莉花》等民樂揭幕，隨後以男中音秦丕曄蒼勁深沉的《好了歌》破題，再藉由廉艷領唱的《紅樓夢序曲》，瞬間將觀眾帶入那段「滿紙荒唐言」的悲劇長卷。

原本是教授的音協會長林湛濤（左）和指揮甄若矛夫婦。（周菊子攝）

整場演出的內容編排層次井然，細膩勾勒出賈府的興衰與群像人物的命運，也讓觀眾更深入感受到王曉梅抑揚頓挫的朗誦，聲樂家們讓人讚歎的曼妙歌聲。

器樂與合唱的《悲歌秦可卿——大出殯》展現了賈府表面繁華實則腐朽的氣勢；《劉姥姥》則透過民族樂器的詼諧節奏，生動刻畫民間小人物的幽默與樸實；男聲合唱《聰明累》更以獨特的諷刺感詮釋了王熙鳳的末世心機。

當天演出的聲樂家，各有特色。

音協會長林湛濤和2名指揮，甄若矛、胡陳喆鈞謝幕。（周菊子攝）

花腔女高音廉艷曾和MassOpera簽約演出莫札特經典歌劇《魔笛》中“夜之女王”一角。她以能夠從西洋歌劇到中國民族組曲跨界演繹的實力，擔任這次全場靈魂曲目《紅樓夢序曲》、《枉凝眉》及壓軸《葬花吟》的領唱。

花腔女高音葉芸茜專攻歌劇與美聲，獲有新英格蘭音樂學院碩士學位，這次獨唱《秋窗風雨夕》。

部分合唱團員在大禮堂加入合照，陣容太過龐大，沒能把每個人都納入。（周菊子攝）

男高音杜源也是新英格蘭音樂學院碩士，曾獲德國愛樂音樂大賽銀獎及澳門國際藝術公開賽金獎，這次獨唱《紫菱洲歌》。

女高音孫瑜若在波士頓伯克利音樂學院聲樂表演系就讀，有豐富的西方歌劇演出經驗，這次獨唱《分骨肉》，詮釋探春遠嫁家國破碎的戲劇張力。

大合照的中景。（周菊子攝）

其他的獨唱者，除了前述的秦丕曄演唱《好了歌》，還有顧蓉演唱展現林黛玉對賈寶玉深藏不露深情的《題帕三絕》，傅東東獨唱勾勒香菱命運多舛、出污泥而不染悲劇色彩的《嘆香菱》，以及王慶和楊娟攜手演繹賈寶玉心中無法言說深情的《紅豆曲》。

表演者謝幕。（周菊子攝）

這場音樂會的2名指揮也實力雄厚。指揮甄若矛為音協創辦人之一，曾師從王範地、劉德海及顧嘉輝大師，具備深厚的民族音樂與編曲底蘊；攜手指揮的胡陳喆鈞則是畢業於新英格蘭音樂學院的年輕人。

廉艷壓軸演唱“葬花吟”。（周菊子攝）

波士頓中國音樂家協會在會長林湛濤與團長張正山領軍下，從2012年創立迄今，已成長為有5個樂團，近兩百名音樂人的大文化家庭，曾成功演出過《紅樓夢》，《劉三姐》，《阿詩瑪》等組曲音樂會，以及《化蝶》，《閩台風情》音樂會。5月9日的盛大演出，再次展現該會在大波士頓華人音樂圈中影響力。

波士頓中國音樂家協會麾下多個樂團，刻正招募新人，有意加入者可上網https://bcmaus.org。

廉艷壓軸演唱“葬花吟”。（周菊子攝）

顧蓉演唱“題帕三絕”。（周菊子攝）

王慶（又）和楊娟合唱”紅豆曲“。周菊子攝）

葉芸茜演唱“秋窗風雨夕”。（周菊子攝）

葉芸茜演唱“秋窗風雨夕”。（周菊子攝）

王曉梅為每段演唱朗誦故事。（周菊子攝）

杜源演唱“紫菱洲歌”。（周菊子攝）

傅東東演唱“嘆香菱”。（周菊子攝）

合唱團女生合唱“晴雯歌”。（周菊子攝）

合唱團男生合唱“聰明累”。（周菊子攝）

音協新任指揮甄若矛指揮樂團演奏。（周菊子攝）

2名指揮，胡陳喆鈞和甄若矛聯袂指揮樂團大合唱。（周菊子攝）

PLANNING ADVANCES SIGN CODE UPDATES, NEW CHINATOWN ZONING, MORE THAN 430 HOMES CONVERTED FROM VACANT OFFICE SPACE

PLANNING ADVANCES SIGN CODE UPDATES, NEW CHINATOWN ZONING, MORE THAN 430 HOMES CONVERTED FROM VACANT OFFICE SPACE

BOSTON – Thursday, May 14, 2026 – The Planning Department this month recommended approval of a new sign code, updated Chinatown zoning, and the tentative designation of development teams to redevelop public sites for middle-income housing. In addition, staff recommended approval of six new development projects representing approximately 742,090 square feet (SF). Four of those projects are office-to-residential conversions. All were approved. The newly approved development proposals will create 611 new homes, including 214 units that are designated income-restricted, and will support approximately 689 construction jobs and 68 permanent jobs. The projects advanced today will help make Boston a more resilient, affordable, and equitable city.

Planning & Zoning

Planning advances updated zoning and design guidelines for Chinatown 

Staff advanced new zoning for Chinatown which will make it easier for people to open small businesses, protect the historical row houses in the neighborhood, and improve the climate resilience of the neighborhood. This updated zoning is informed by the feedback staff heard over the last couple of years about the cultural identity of Chinatown and how best to preserve it, including Chinatown’s ability to support new immigrants, and to provide affordable housing and commercial spaces. Zoning in the commercial heart of Chinatown will make it easier for small businesses to open and to renovate, as well as continue to allow for much-needed housing in the area. In the area of the neighborhood with the historic row houses, the zoning will be more restrictive to discourage redevelopment. The zoning also includes new citywide districts for institutional uses, mapped to cover Tufts University and Tufts Medical Center. The rezoning process for Chinatown is part of the larger comprehensive strategy for PLAN: Downtown, which was adopted in September of 2025. These updates will now need to be approved by the Boston Zoning Commission. 

Staff also advanced new Design Guidelines for the neighborhood through an amendment to PLAN: Downtown, which emphasize ways for new projects to help enhance Chinatown’s rich cultural character, including continuing the scale of vibrant storefronts and facades in the neighborhood and the role of family associations as cultural anchors. The guidelines also include recommendations for improving community spaces, public art, and green space across the neighborhood. 

Planning advances updates to the City’s sign code

For the first time in over 50 years, Planning advanced comprehensive new zoning for signs in the City of Boston. This new zoning will make the process for small businesses to put up more simple signage by setting clear rules for signs, streamlining the process and eliminating unnecessary review wait times. Currently, every individual sign in the city must go through a design review process with Planning Department staff, which contributes to significant wait times. These proposed zoning updates will allow most signs to be permitted without review, with the exception of special, larger signs that could have large, visual impacts to the public realm. The new process will save small businesses time and money. These updates will go into effect once approved by the Boston Zoning Commission. 

Urban Design

Planning advances new ‘Color Flows’ activations in Downtown and Chinatown

The Board authorized temporary use of Winter Street in Downtown Crossing and of Liberty Tree Plaza and Chinatown for multi-week events this summer and fall known as ‘Color Flows.’  The location on Winter Street will repeat the event from last fall, transforming the street with colorful art installations, food trucks, interactive events, and cultural programming. The event on Liberty Tree Plaza will create a welcoming, public space by reinterpreting the site’s legacy of civic gathering through contemporary art and cultural programming in Chinatown. 

‘Color Flows’ is part of the City of Boston’s broader effort to reimagine how our streets and pedestrian zones can be safer, more engaging, and enjoyable for all. These activations build off of recommendations in the Boston Design Vision, which lays out a five-year roadmap to guide future design strategies and recommendations intended to inform how the built environment is shaped to uplift identity and elevate quality design. The roadmap identified a series of projects, policies, and processes that could be leveraged to advance the Design Vision, including ways to activate pedestrian spaces like these. ‘Color Flows on Winter Street’ will take place daily from 11am-6pm from June-October, and ‘Color Flows on Liberty Tree Plaza’ will take place daily from 10am-5pm from June-August.

Real Estate

Planning recommends tentative designation of four parcels for Welcome Home, Boston Phase 3

Planning advanced the tentative designation of four development teams to redevelop four publicly owned sites in Roxbury into new homes. The sites are located at: 19 Laurel Street, 11-13 Catawba Street, 14 Catawba Street, and 100 Ruthven Street. Combined with five other publicly owned parcels in Dorchester and Hyde Park that are part of the Mayor’s Office of Housing’s catalogue of land, these parcels will make up Phase Three of Welcome Home, Boston. Phase Three of this program will be income-restricted to prospective middle-income homebuyers making between 120 percent and 135 percent of the Area Median Income. This effort is in response to the lack of middle income-housing options throughout the City and region. The majority of these homes will be two-bedroom units, with some one- and three-bedroom units mixed in, and they will be a mix of ground-up new construction, as well as modular. These sites were identified as underutilized through the Citywide land audit announced by Mayor Wu in January 2022.

Development Projects

Project to create new West End Library with housing above moves forward

Housing: 119 income-restricted homes 

Jobs: Approximately 174 construction jobs, approximately 26 permanent jobs

Community: Brand new branch of the BPL, close proximity to public transportation, groceries, and healthcare facilities

Sustainability: LEED Gold, Passive House compliant

This project will demolish the current West End branch of the Boston Public Library and build an entirely new, two-story branch with 12 stories of income-restricted housing above it. The 119 new homes will be a mix of studios, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments. This new development will improve the area with a new public plaza and shared community amenities for library visitors and residents. It is also in close proximity to public transportation, groceries, and healthcare facilities. In 2018, the Mayor’s Office of Housing started the Housing With Public Assets program to evaluate existing municipal facilities for housing production opportunities. This process identified the West End Library as an ideal location for mixed-used redevelopment to preserve and improve library services and also introduce new housing.

Bartlett Place Lot C project to create new homeownership opportunities in Roxbury

Housing: 61 homeownership units, 12 income-restricted units

Jobs: Approximately 99 construction jobs

Community: Artist live/work units, new publicly accessible pedestrian connection

Sustainability: LEED Gold

This project will build new housing in Nubian Square that will be for a mix of incomes. Of the 61 homeownership units, 12 will be income-restricted, and four will be artist live/work units. The building will also feature a variety of residential amenities, including bike parking, lounge and gallery space for artists, a dog washing room, and courtyard. The project will also improve the public realm by creating a new connection from Bartlett Street to Bartlett Station Drive.

Offices at 419 Boylston Street to be converted to housing in Back Bay

Housing: 44 units, seven income-restricted

Jobs: Approximately 44 construction jobs, approximately 15 permanent jobs

Community: New residents living Downtown

Sustainability: Adaptive re-use and preservation of existing building, all-electric 

Located in Back Bay, this project will convert what is currently an eight-story office building into 44 new homes, seven of which will be income-restricted. The existing retail tenants on the first and second floors will remain. As this is located in the Back Bay Architectural District, any possible exterior alterations to the building would need to be reviewed by the Back Bay Architectural Commission. This project is one of 26 applicants to Mayor Wu’s successful Office-to-Residential Conversion Program, which is on track to convert 31 buildings and 1.5M SF of former office space into 1,785 new homes.

Office space at 50 Congress Street Downtown to be converted housing

Housing: 169 units, 34 income-restricted units

Jobs: Retention of existing retail tenant, approximately 192 construction jobs, approximately 11 permanent jobs

Community: New residents living Downtown

Sustainability: Adaptive re-use and preservation of existing building, LEED Silver, compliant with Stretch Energy Code

This project will convert the existing ten-story building into 169 new homes, including 34 that will be income-restricted. These will be a mix of studios, one-, and two-bedroom apartments. Due to updated zoning regulations Downtown, the project will not require zoning relief, allowing these new homes to be completed more quickly. This project is one of 26 applicants to Mayor Wu’s successful Office-to-Residential Conversion Program, which is on track to convert 31 buildings and 1.5M SF of former office space into 1,785 new homes.

1 State Street project to convert offices to housing

Housing: 76 residential units, 13 income-restricted units

Jobs: Retention of existing retail tenant, approximately 59 construction jobs, approximately five permanent jobs

Community: New residents living Downtown

Sustainability: Adaptive re-use and preservation of existing building, all-electric, LEED Gold

This project will convert the existing 14-story office building into 76 new homes, including 13 that will be income-restricted. These will be a mix of studios, and one-bedroom apartments. Due to updated zoning regulations Downtown, the project will not require zoning relief, allowing these new homes to be completed more quickly. This project is one of 26 applicants to Mayor Wu’s successful Office-to-Residential Conversion Program, which is on track to convert 31 buildings and 1.5M SF of former office space into 1,785 new homes.

Former Fort Point office and warehouse space at 320 Summer Street to be converted to homes

Housing: 145 units, 29 income-restricted units

Jobs: Ground floor retail, approximately 121 construction jobs, approximately 11 permanent jobs

Community: Amenity space, roof deck

Sustainability: Adaptive re-use and preservation of existing building

Located in Fort Point, this project will convert what is currently two combined brick and beam buildings that were formerly warehouses and office space into housing. The building will include 145 new units, of which 29 will be income-restricted. These will be a mix of studios, one-, and two-bedroom apartments. The project continues the evolution of the Fort Point neighborhood from industrial and commercial use toward a vibrant, mixed-use residential district, while honoring the architectural legacy that defines its identity. This project is one of 26 applicants to Mayor Wu’s successful Office-to-Residential Conversion Program, which is on track to convert 31 buildings and 1.5M SF of former office space into 1,785 new homes.

In addition to these projects, the Board approved:

An update to a previously approved project at 90 Braintree Street to reorient the parking on the site, which will shuffle the orientation of floor plans and green space.

Massachusetts Marks 10 Years of Leading the Nation in Problem Gambling Prevention

Massachusetts Marks 10 Years of Leading the Nation in Problem Gambling Prevention

Largest-ever state conference, including current and former Boston professional athletes discussing their experiences with problem gambling, to focus on the cross-agency response to the evolving sports betting landscape

BOSTON (May 14, 2026) — On the 10th anniversary of its groundbreaking efforts to address gambling harm, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health's (DPH) Office of Problem Gambling Services (OPGS) will host its 3rd annual Massachusetts Problem Gambling Conference on May 20 at the MassMutual Center in Springfield. With over 500 registered participants, it will be the most-attended problem gambling conference of its kind in the state’s history and sold out in weeks.

Former Boston Celtics All-Star forward Antoine Walker, who, in 2009, struggled with problem gambling, will join a panel that will include New England wide receiver Kayshon Boutte whose powerful essay on his experience with gambling addiction was published earlier this year in The Players’ Tribune, and top-ranked boxer Jamaine Ortiz of Worcester. The panel, titled, “The Score Doesn’t Matter if You Lose the Game,” will explore past, present, and future perspectives on sports betting and its impact on athletes and the communities most exposed to its expansion.

The conference comes at a pivotal time for problem gambling. In the three years since the legalization of online sports betting in Massachusetts, treatment referrals to the Problem Gambling Helpline for residents in their 20s and 30s have increased substantially, from 140 in fiscal year 2022 to 300 in fiscal year 2024, Helpline data show. Furthermore, in 2025, 44 percent of high school students and 49 percent of middle school students reported engaging in some form of gambling over the past 12 months, according to the Massachusetts Youth Health Survey.

“As we mark this important milestone for the Office of Problem Gambling Services, we continue to lean into our commitment to working with our state and community partners to expand access to prevention, referral, and treatment for those impacted by gambling’s harms,” said Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein, MD, PhD. “Amid this great expansion of gambling access and advertising, our work is guided by a belief that racial equity is foundational to these mitigation efforts and that centering community voices in addressing this public health issue is key.”

The conference will draw an array of public health, community, and legislative leaders. They include Commissioner Goldstein; Commissioner of Public Health and Executive Director of the Boston Public Health Commission Bisola Ojikutu, MD, MPH; and Massachusetts Department of Mental Health Assistant Commissioner Dr. Funmi Aguocha, PsyD. They will be joined by Springfield Mayor Domenic J. Sarno, State Senator Adam Gomez, and State Representative Carlos Gonzalez in advocating for a collaborative, cross-agency response to problem gambling. The lunch keynote will be delivered by Victor Ortiz, Director of DPH’s Office of Problem Gambling Services, who will reflect on OPGS’s decade of community partnership and progress.

The conference will feature 15 sessions focused on equity and the multicultural impact of gambling harm, including culturally responsive approaches to developing treatment strategies. Massachusetts is among just a handful of states with a dedicated annual public health conference on gambling harm — a model that other jurisdictions have begun studying as legalization spreads throughout the nation.

“Many states are still figuring out how to respond to the increase in gambling harm that came with legalization,” said Victor Ortiz, Director of the Office of Problem Gambling Services. “The Department of Public Health decided 10 years ago that we were not going to wait – and the community has been showing us ever since that they needed someone to act.”

Since 2016, the Office of Problem Gambling Services has invested $94 million in prevention, treatment, and recovery initiatives; established more than 40 community-based partnerships, which have engaged more than 3,000 individuals across the state; and launched more than 25 unique initiatives to address the specific needs of diverse populations.

For treatment referrals, self-help resources, and information for loved ones, visit MAProblemGamblingHelpline.org or call the Massachusetts Problem Gambling Helpline — 800-327-5050 — available 24/7.

波士頓市長咖啡時間 5/18 啟動 第一站華埠

            (Boston Orange編譯) 波士頓市長吳弭 (Michelle Wu)、市府鄰里服務處及公園及娛樂局宣佈， 2026 年度的「鄰里咖啡時間」，將於5 月 18 日（週一）天上午10點半，在艾略特·諾頓公園 (Elliot Norton Park，295 Tremont Street, Boston)和華埠及灣村（Bay Village）啟動。

            下一場市長「鄰里咖啡時間」，訂5 月 27 日（週三）上午 10 點半在柯普利廣場公園 (Copley Square Park，560 Boylston Street, Boston) 舉行，同時為公園的提升氣候韌性、改善無障礙通行、擴大樹冠覆蓋面積並升級基礎設施等翻新工程竣工剪綵。

             今年的市長「鄰里咖啡時間」系列，由 Dunkin’ 與 Star Market 贊助。吳弭市長表示，咖啡時間傳統已延續逾 25 年，今年更擴大了服務時段與範圍，以期居民能直接向市府官員回饋意見，並獲取 311 報修數據、住房投資及青年服務等最新進度。

             活動現場將由 Dunkin’ 提供冰咖啡與甜甜圈，公園局發放限量免費盆栽。波士頓市府將陸續公佈奧斯頓-布萊頓 (Allston-Brighton)、查理士城 (Charlestown) 等地的詳細日程。居民如需查詢雨天備選地點，可撥打311，或617-635-4500 ，IG的 @boston_cec ，或上網 boston.gov/ons. 。

麻州護士協會支持「為安全麻州投贊成票」

 (Boston Orange 編譯) 麻州護士協會（Massachusetts Nurses Association, MNA） 5 月 14 日在波士頓宣佈，支持「為安全麻州投贊成票（Vote Yes for a Safe Massachusetts）」運動，反對撤銷麻州 2024 年通過的槍枝安全法。

麻州在2024 年通過的法律內容包括：加強管制無編號的「幽靈槍（ghost guns）」、更新「極端風險保護令（Extreme Risk Protection Order）」條款、禁止改裝危險武器，並撥款支持預防暴力計畫。

麻州護士協會發起投贊成票活動，旨在在維護現行法律，防止反對者透過全民公投廢除相關規定。槍枝遊說團體與美國步槍協會（National Rifle Association, NRA）等，正推動廢除該法的公投。

麻州護士協會主席、現職加護病房護士的墨菲（Katie Murphy）表示，護理人員在急診室與醫院第一線目睹槍枝暴力後果，支持該法是為保障病人與醫護同事的健康安全。該協會成立於 1903 年，目前擁有超過 23,000 名成員，服務於全州 85 家醫療機構、51 間急性病醫院以及學校與社區體系。

「為安全麻州投贊成票」主席扎卡林（Ruth Zakarin）指出，護士的加入，強調了保留現行法律對改善公共安全的緊迫性。麻州目前是全美槍枝死亡率最低的州之一，支持者認為若該法被撤銷，將削弱現有的社區保護機制。該運動將持續串聯醫療專業人員與社區領袖，呼籲選民在公投中投下贊成票以維持法律效力。

麻州取消醫保預先授權規定訂 6/5 生效

  (Boston Orange 編譯) 麻州州長奚莉 (Maura Healey) 今（14 ）日宣佈，保險局 (Division of Insurance, DOI) 已落實更新條例，取消針對癌症掃描、氣喘、糖尿病及心臟病等慢性病例行與必要醫療保健的預先授權 (Prior authorization) 要求。該法規將於 2026 年 6 月 5 日生效。

這項新規定禁止保險公司對多項醫療服務實施預先審查，範疇涵蓋急診、初級照護、預防性服務、癌症診斷後的放射影像檢查、產科護理、門診物質使用障礙治療，以及針對嚴重精神疾病與特定慢性病的藥物治療。

根據條例，若延遲可能嚴重影響患者健康，保險公司必須在 24 小時內回覆緊急授權請求。

針對癌症等慢性病患者，只要病情保持穩定，獲得授權的治療方案將在整個療程中持續有效。此外，新制建立「持續照護」機制，要求保險公司必須承認患者在更換保險計劃前已取得的授權，有效期至少 90 天。保險公司亦被要求公開發布預先授權要求，並在更改政策前提前通知醫療提供者。

奚莉州長指出，若醫師建議治療或用藥，患者應及時獲得，無需經過繁瑣程序。副州長Kim Driscoll 與保險專員Michael Caljouw)表示，此舉旨在減少患者壓力並提高醫療獲取性。丹娜法伯癌症研究所 (Dana-Farber Cancer Institute) 執行長本傑明·艾伯特 (Dr. Benjamin L. Ebert) 指出，新制讓癌症患者能在診斷後立即進行核磁共振 (MRI) 或電腦斷層 (CT) 掃描，無需等待審核，有助於縮短決定治療方案的時間。

根據可負擔醫療品質委員會 (Council for Affordable Quality Healthcare) 數據，醫療產業於 2023 年在預先授權相關的行政成本支出約 13 億美元，較前一年成長 30%。這項改革預計將減少醫療提供者與保險公司的行政負擔。麻州醫學會 (Massachusetts Medical Society) 與麻州健康與醫院協會 (Massachusetts Health & Hospital Association, MHA) 等多個業界團體均表示支持。

Governor Healey Announces Final Regs That Eliminate Prior Authorization Requirements for Routine and Essential Health Care 

 Updated regulations eliminate prior authorization requirements for cancer scans and medications for chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes and heart disease 

BOSTON - Governor Maura Healey today announced that the Division of Insurance (DOI) has finalized updated regulations that eliminate prior authorization requirements for routine and essential health care, including cancer scans and medications for chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes and heart disease.  

The regulations will reduce delays and eliminate barriers that too often prevent patients from getting timely health care. Prior authorization requires patients and providers to obtain approval from insurance companies before certain treatments, services or medications can be provided, which can add unnecessary delays, stress and costs.  

During the public comment period additional provisions were added to eliminate prior authorization for radiology imaging used after a cancer diagnosis to determine the stage of the cancer or determine the best treatment method, as well as to ensure that prior authorization approval for chronic conditions, like cancer, continue throughout the entire course of treatment. 

“We’re making it easier, faster and cheaper for Massachusetts residents to get the care that they need,” said Governor Healey. “If your doctor says you need a treatment or medication, you deserve to get it in a timely manner without jumping through hoops. These new regulations will help people with cancer, diabetes, asthma, heart conditions, mental health concerns and more. I’m grateful for the leadership of Commissioner Caljouw and the team at DOI, and all of the patients, providers, hospitals, insurers and advocates who partnered with us to make this possible. We’re going to continue to work together to lower health care costs for everyone.”   

“Health care access and affordability remain top concerns for people across Massachusetts,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “These new rules will cut down on unnecessary delays, stress and costs by making it easier for patients and families to access essential care.” 

“These reforms will ensure Massachusetts residents get the care they need when they need it,” said Insurance Commissioner Michael Caljouw.  “We would not be here without the collaborative approach of stakeholders towards the crafting of these meaningful changes.” 

“Health care access is essential to strong communities and a competitive economy,” said Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley. “By reducing delays and eliminating unnecessary barriers to treatment, these reforms will help patients get care faster and make the health care system more reliable for residents and providers across Massachusetts.” 

“We applaud the Healey Administration for prioritizing much-needed reforms to the prior authorization process, which will help Massachusetts residents get the timely health care they need and deserve,” said Dr. Benjamin L. Ebert, president and CEO of Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. “The reforms announced today will allow patients and families to focus on treatment and healing while also giving doctors and nurses more time to care for their patients. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with the Administration and our healthcare partners to enhance the progress made today, ensuring that prior authorization works better for everyone.” 

The reforms are the result of months of review and feedback from patients, providers, hospitals, insurers, and advocates across Massachusetts. The new regulations prohibit the use of prior authorization requirements for a wide range of health care services, including emergency and urgent care, primary care, preventive services, radiology imaging after a cancer diagnosis, maternity care, outpatient substance use disorder treatment, physical and occupational therapy and medications for serious mental illness and certain chronic conditions. 

The regulations also establish new patient protections, including requiring insurers to respond to urgent requests within 24 hours when delays could seriously impact a patient’s health. Patients with chronic conditions, including cancer, who receive authorization for treatment will also have approvals honored for the duration of their treatment as long as they remain stable. 

Additional reforms will help ensure continuity of care for patients who switch insurance plans by requiring insurers to honor existing authorizations for at least 90 days. Insurers will also be required to publicly post prior authorization requirements and notify providers in advance before making changes to their policies. 

The regulations will reduce administrative burdens on providers and insurers alike, reducing costs while helping patients receive care more quickly and consistently. According to the Council for Affordable Quality Healthcare, the health care industry spent approximately $1.3 billion on administrative costs related to prior authorization in 2023. That is a 30 percent increase over the previous year and can be largely attributed to the rise in the volume of prior authorizations.  

Examples of how these reforms will help patients include: 

• A patient with a chronic condition like diabetes, asthma or heart disease, or who has a serious persistent mental illness, will no longer have to obtain prior authorization for their medication. 

• A cancer patient receiving treatment will maintain approval throughout the course of treatment if their condition remains stable. 

• A patient who was recently diagnosed with cancer will not have to wait for prior authorization before getting the MRI or CT scan needed to determine what stage their cancer is or what treatment is required. 

• A patient with rheumatoid arthritis who has an existing authorization for his treatment but recently switched to a new insurer will have that prior authorization honored for at least three months.   

• An insurer will be required to respond to a prior authorization request from a multiple sclerosis patient experiencing a relapse and needing steroid injections to prevent permanent nerve damage within 24 hours. 

• A provider who recently diagnosed their patient with a new condition will more easily be able to identify if a prior authorization is required for a particular course of treatment. 

• Patients facing urgent medical situations will receive faster responses from insurers when time-sensitive care is needed. 

The regulations will take effect on June 5, 2026, with patients expected to begin benefiting from these changes later this year. 

第 28 屆洛士百利國際影展 6/18-26將放映逾百部影片

 (Boston Orange編譯) 第 28 屆洛士百利國際影展（Roxbury International Film Festival, RoxFilm）訂6 月 18 日至 26 日在波士頓美術館（MFA）、希伯尼安大廳（Hibernian Hall）等地放映逾百部影片。6 月 26 日至 7 月 2 日轉為線上影展（RoxFilm@home）。

6 月 18 日影展開幕，將放映記述電視轉播時代首位非裔足球巨星克萊德·貝斯特（Clyde Best）在英格蘭與北美足球聯盟（NASL）生涯的紀錄片「轉變這項美麗的運動：克萊德·貝斯特的故事（Transforming the Beautiful Game: The Clyde Best Story）」。導演丹·伊根（Dan Egan）與貝斯特本人將出席映後問答。

 6 月 26 日影展閉幕，將放映浪漫劇情片「蒙馬特（Montmartre）」，里昂·亨德里克斯三世（Leon Hendrix III）執導，伊托·艾海耶（Ito Aghayere）與傑西·威廉斯（Jesse Williams）等人主演，探討巴黎的非裔歷史與愛情。

本屆洛士百利國際影展特色包括， 6 月 25 日與健康協作組織（The Wellness Collaborative）合作。放映紀錄片「尋找你的笑聲（Finding Your Laughter）」。該片由阿莉塔·霍爾（Arlieta Hall）與布蘭妮·阿爾索特（Brittany Alsot）執導，講述喜劇演員霍爾如何利用即興表演作為照護阿茲海默症父親的工具。6 月 23 日將舉辦「長者午餐（Senior Lunch）」免費專案，放映包含「追逐光芒：比爾·斯特里克蘭的故事（Pursuing Light: The Bill Strickland Story）」在內的多部短片與地方作品。

6 月 21 日下午2點半到5點是「追夢者（DREAMERS）」短片單元，將放映3部片，分別是「釋放瓊·利特爾（Free Joan Little）」，詳述 1975 年全美首例因反擊性侵而獲正當防衛無罪判決之案件；另放映關於記者艾薇·揚（Ivy Young）的「再次夢想（And Again I Dream）」及眾議員阿雅娜·普萊斯利（Ayanna Pressley）的紀錄片「她敢於夢想（She Dared to Dream）」。

查詢更多資訊可上網www.roxfilmfest.com 。

「國會選區健康儀表板」納入SNAP參與率數據

(Boston Orange) 美國社區媒體 (American Community Media) 聯合羅伯特·伍德·約翰遜基金會 (Robert Wood Johnson Foundation) 近日舉辦簡報會，宣布「國會選區健康儀表板」(Congressional District Health Dashboard) 正式納入補充營養援助計畫 (SNAP) 數據，旨在追蹤聯邦政策變動對各選區的實質影響。

這項由紐約大學葛羅斯曼醫學院 (NYU Grossman School of Medicine) 開發的免費平台，新增了按國會選區、州別及族裔分類的 SNAP 參與率指標。專家指出，自 2025 年中以來，全美已有 300 萬人失去補助，預計後續政策將使受影響人數再增加百萬。數據顯示各地依賴度差異懸殊，參與率從 3% 至 60% 不等，加州 (California) 部分中央谷地選區的參與率已超過五成。

公共衛生專家 Giridhar Mallya 醫師與 Lorna E. Thorpe 博士在會中強調，聯邦政策調整（包括擴大工作要求與限縮移民資格）已產生「寒蟬效應」，導致部分符合資格的移民家庭主動退出。

目前該儀表板提供 40 項健康與社會指標，供記者與政策制定者對比不同族裔間的數據差異。專家強調，SNAP 提供的糧食規模是食品銀行的九倍，數據的在地化將有助於量化聯邦削減計畫對地方社區及經濟的具體衝擊。（文稿資料來源為美國社區媒體

聯邦縮減教育補助 麻省理工學院等高校裁員中

 (Boston Orange編譯) 麻省理工學院（MIT）校長莎莉·柯恩布魯斯（Sally Kornbluth） 5 月 14 日發表影片談話，證實該校受聯邦經費縮減與政策變動影響，研究規模較去年萎縮 10%，研究生錄取人數亦顯著下降。

柯恩布魯斯指出，校方目前面對聯邦研究獎助金縮減 20% 以上，校產基金（university endowments）聯邦課稅 8% 等困境，加上移民政策變動導致國際學生申請意願低落，儘管該校已開發其他資金來源，如今仍然短缺 3 億美元。

麻省理工學院指出，除了史隆（Sloan）管理學院和電子工程與計算機科學（Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, EECS）碩士課程外，2026-2027 學年度的研究生錄取人數下降 20%，約減少 500 名學生。部分國際學生因聯邦政府取消學生簽證及遣返行動而對赴美求學持觀望態度。

為因應財務壓力，麻省理工學院已採取的措施包括關閉部分圖書館、取消績效加薪及縮減系所招生等。

面對類似困境的哈佛大學（Harvard University）、布朗大學（Brown University）和波士頓大學（Boston University），已實施幅度更大的裁員行動，麻省理工學院目前裁員範圍僅限於圖書館系統與布羅德研究所（Broad Institute）。

MIT校方表示，該校駐華盛頓辦事處正與國會溝通，試圖緩解校產基金稅對學術研究的衝擊。柯恩布魯斯強調，基礎研究管道受阻將直接影響未來科學人才供應與創新研發動能。

麻州為加強安全監管修訂安置青少年法令 11/17起生效

 (Boston Orange編譯)麻州早期教育與照護委員會（Board of Early Education and Care）修訂住宅安置計畫（Residential Program），以加強對全州330 處機構、逾 5,500 名6 至18 歲（特殊障礙者至 22 歲）因情緒及行為複雜等問題而無法在家中安住青少年的安全監管訂，11 月 17 日起生效，。

這是麻州30 多年來首度全面更新這類法案，為大幅提升素質，強制要求從業人員接受創傷知情護理與專業邊界，以及預防性侵害及情感操縱（Grooming）等培訓。

新法規的核心重點是「堵上安全漏洞」，將強制要求所有一線工作人員必須接受創傷知情護理與專業邊界培訓，以防止員工利用職權性侵害、誘拐或情感操控（Grooming）受助兒童。

新法規也限制使用隔離措施（Seclusion practices），要求針對兒童的宗教、文化及性別（LGBTQ+）身份制定個人化處置計畫，並明確規範監視器的安裝政策。為了落實監督，安置機構將來必須向其董事會通報政府的所有審查與調查結果。

麻州政府為支持新法規，篩選適任員工，啟動了 1,500 萬美元借貸還款計畫，提供獎學金吸引專業人才。麻州政府還提案要求把殘疾人士保護委員會（DPPC）的虐待紀錄名單納入員工背景調查項目，以確保有過虐待紀錄的人員無法進入安置系統工作。

這項改革彙整了包含兒童代言人辦公室（Office of the Child Advocate）在內的 26 份公眾意見。

Massachusetts Approves Comprehensive Revisions to Residential Program Regulations

Vote marks the state’s first comprehensive update to residential program licensing regulations in more than 30 years

WESTBOROUGH — The Board of Early Education and Care voted to promulgate revisions to the state’s regulations governing residential programs, marking the first comprehensive update to these regulations in more than 30 years. As proposed by the Healey-Driscoll Administration, these changes promote a stronger workforce through improved requirements on staff professional development, including on trauma-informed and responsive care, cultural responsiveness, professional boundaries and missing or absent children. The regulations also require staff training related to the prevention and identification of sexual abuse, grooming and exploitation.

 

Further, the regulation changes improve child safety through policies regarding the use of surveillance cameras, align with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s updated regulations on seclusion practices, and require more comprehensive treatment plans that consider a child’s long-term goals, trauma history, culture or religion, LGBTQ+ identity, and behavior needs. Residential programs are also required to share more information with their boards, such as EEC licensing reviews and investigations to improve accountability and transparency.

“These approved regulations promote safer, more inclusive and dignified residential program experiences for children and youth – centering their needs and wellbeing. We’re proud in Massachusetts to continue efforts that strengthen the residential program workforce and support children to succeed,” said Secretary of Education Steve Zrike. “I want to thank the Board of Early Education and Care for their partnership and support in this critical work.”

 

“This milestone represents an important step forward in strengthening oversight, safety, and quality in our residential programs who serve children and youth with highly complex needs,” said Early Education and Care Commissioner Amy Kershaw. “We are grateful to the providers, families, advocates, and community partners whose feedback and collaboration were invaluable, and we remain committed to strengthening support for both the workforce and the children they serve.”

 

“Updating these regulations after 30 years is a major milestone,” said Paul Belsito, Chair of the Board of Early Education and Care. “The Board appreciates the work of the Department and the many stakeholders who helped shape these updates to ensure strong protections and high-quality care for children across the Commonwealth.”

These approved regulations build on the administration’s work to strengthen this workforce and improve the safety and well-being of children. Governor Maura Healey’s recently filed supplemental budget includes language that would allow the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) to include information from the Disabled Persons Protection Commission (DPPC) abuse registry in background checks for candidates to work in residential programs. The administration also recently launched a $15 million Loan Repayment Program that includes residential program staff, as well as expanded the Early Childhood Educators Scholarship to include residential program staff.

 

EEC currently licenses over 330 residential programs, with the capacity to support over 5,500 children and youth. Residential programs serve residents up to age 18 (or 22, for certain children living with disabilities) and provide care and housing for residents in a group care setting outside of their family home. Many of the residents at these programs have complex behavioral health and/or social-emotional needs or are otherwise in need of additional complex support.

 

The regulatory revisions are the result of extensive national research, internal review, stakeholder engagement and public comment. This engagement included people with lived experience, trade and advocacy groups, residential program providers, and state agencies. The Board sent the proposed changes out for public comment from December 11, 2025 through January 12, 2026. EEC received 26 comments throughout the public comment period from trade groups, advocacy groups, individual providers, legislators, and persons served. Today’s final regulations incorporate this feedback.

 

“Updating the residential programs regulations provides a significant opportunity to better safeguard children and create new pathways for their voices to be heard,” said Maria Mossaides, Director of the Office of the Child Advocate. “The Office of the Child Advocate was pleased to work closely with EEC on these revisions, and we appreciate the collaborative approach the agency has taken over the past year. The new regulations are more child-centered, add additional safety protections, and ensure additional staff training in critical areas, including restraint prevention and sexual abuse prevention. This is an important step forward, and the OCA looks forward to continued partnership with EEC to ensure the new regulations are successfully implemented.”

 

“EEC’s leadership in engaging providers, agencies, and trade associations throughout this process demonstrates the value of strong public-private partnerships. Over the course of the past year, stakeholders worked collectively to provide thoughtful feedback on the comprehensive review of Residential and Placement Regulations, always with a shared commitment to strengthening licensing requirements that prioritize the safety, well-being, and positive outcomes of children and families. Key is proud to have participated in this collaborative effort and to support initiatives that advance quality care, accountability, and meaningful partnership within Massachusetts’ early education and care system on behalf of the children and families in the Commonwealth,” said Tammy Mello, President & Chief Executive Officer of Key Program, Inc.

 

“The Children’s League appreciates the hard work and collaborative approach by EEC to update the regulations for licensure of residential programs. These updates advance our ability to provide safe and high-quality care and housing for some of the Commonwealth's most vulnerable children, in partnership with multiple state agencies that rely on these services. The updated regulations take a more child-centered approach, improve clarity, and support system efficiency, which allows providers to focus on what they do best – caring for children and youth,” said Rachel Gwaltney, Executive Director of the Children’s League of Massachusetts.

 

The revised regulations will take effect on November 17, 2026.