麻州發現第二宗人類感染西尼羅病毒案例

State Health Officials Announce Season’s Second Human Case of West Nile Virus in Massachusetts     WNV risk levels elevated to high in seven communities   BOSTON (August 24, 2026) – The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today announced the second human case of West Nile virus (WNV) in Massachusetts this year in a man in his 60s who was exposed in Middlesex County.   This follows last week’s announcement of the first confirmed WNV infection in a person this season who was also exposed in Middlesex County. As a result of these cases, the locations of exposure, and cumulative findings of WNV in mosquito samples, the risk for WNV has been elevated to high in Boston, Brookline, Cambridge, Everett, Newton, Somerville, and Watertown.   “We are currently in peak season for WNV in mosquitoes, and the risk for many across Massachusetts is high,” said Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein, MD, PhD. “Those who are older or have compromised immune systems are especially at risk. I want to remind everyone to continue to use repellent, cover up with clothing when the weather permits, consider moving indoors during dusk to dawn hours when mosquitoes are biting, and make sure to empty anything that may be collecting water outside your home.”   The first WNV-positive mosquitoes in the state this season were announced on June 16. So far, there have been 184 WNV-positive mosquito samples detected this year from Barnstable, Berkshire, Bristol, Dukes, Essex, Franklin, Hampden, Hampshire, Middlesex, Norfolk, Plymouth, Suffolk, and Worcester counties. There have been no human or animal cases of Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) infection reported so far this year.   People have an important role to play in protecting themselves and their loved ones from illnesses caused by mosquitoes.   Avoid Mosquito Bites Apply Insect Repellent when Outdoors. Use a repellent with an EPA-registered ingredient, such as DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide), permethrin, picaridin (KBR 3023), or oil of lemon eucalyptus (p-menthane-3,8-diol (PMD) or IR3535) according to the instructions on the product label. DEET products should not be used on infants under two months of age and should be used in concentrations of 30 percent or less on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under three years of age.   Be Aware of Peak Mosquito Hours. The hours from dusk to dawn are peak biting times for many mosquitoes. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities that occur during evening or early morning in areas of high risk.   Clothing Can Help Reduce Mosquito Bites. Wearing long sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.   Mosquito-Proof Your Home Drain Standing Water. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Limit the number of places around your home for mosquitoes to breed by draining or discarding items that hold water. Check rain gutters and drains. Empty unused flowerpots and wading pools and change the water in birdbaths frequently.   Install or Repair Screens. Keep mosquitoes outside by having tightly fitting screens on all windows and doors.   Protect Your Animals Animal owners should reduce potential mosquito breeding sites on their property by eliminating standing water from containers such as buckets, tires, and wading pools – especially after heavy rains. Water troughs provide excellent mosquito breeding habitats and should be flushed out at least once a week during the summer months to reduce mosquitoes near paddock areas. Horse owners should keep horses in indoor stalls at night to reduce their risk of exposure to mosquitoes. Owners should also speak with their veterinarian about mosquito repellents approved for use in animals and vaccinations to prevent West Nile virus (WNV) and EEE. If an animal is suspected of having WNV or EEE, owners are required to report to the Department of Agricultural Resources, Division of Animal Health by calling 617-626-1795, and to the Department of Public Health by calling 617-983-6800.   More information, including all WNV and EEE positive results, can be found on the Arbovirus Surveillance Information web page, which is updated daily, or by calling the DPH Division of Epidemiology at 617-983-6800.

麻州派出第 3 組野地救火員馳援明尼蘇達州

Governor Healey Sends Third Crew of Wildland Firefighters to Help Battle Minnesota Fires 

 New 11-person crew and four-person engine team will embark on two-week deployment to Minnesota

CARLISLE — Governor Maura Healey today announced that Massachusetts is sending a third crew of specially trained wildland firefighters to northern Minnesota to help fight ongoing fires in the region. 

The 15-person team includes firefighters from the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) and Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game’s (DFG) Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife). Massachusetts has already deployed two crews, to assist with the fires in Minnesota, and several firefighters from the first crew are volunteering to return for a second deployment.

“ “I’m incredibly proud of our Massachusetts firefighters, including several who are volunteering to head back to Minnesota for a second time,” said Governor Maura Healey. “They are leaving their families and putting themselves in harm’s way to help communities that need them. We’re grateful for their service and wish them a safe deployment.” 

Five large wildfires continue to burn across the Boundary Waters region of northern Minnesota, including the Bear Trap Fire, which extends into Ontario, Canada. Together, the July Lighting Fires span more than 65,000 acres and have drawn more than 750 personnel as part of a coordinated response. 

 

The Massachusetts team includes 11-person wildland suppression crew and a four-person engine team, all of who meet federal wildland firefighting standards. During the approximately 14-day deployment, the crew may build fire breaks, secure fire perimeters, contain fires and protect structures. All members have completed federal wildland firefighting training and passed required physical fitness testing.

“Massachusetts’ firefighters are again lending support to our partners in other states,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “Drought and dry conditions are worsening fire risk across the country. Some areas are in need of more capacity as they combat wildfires at a much bigger scale. These trends speak to how climate change puts strain on our first responders. We stand with them and are ready to send our support to communities in need.”

“Our Massachusetts wildland firefighters provide the necessary skills and experience to help our neighbors with longer and more intense fire seasons,” said DCR Commissioner Nicole LaChapelle. “I am so proud of our crews that continue to leave their homes and families to help others facing extreme wildfire events, some even volunteering for second deployments after having returned just weeks ago. Our teams possess extraordinary skill, professionalism, and commitment that they can share with fellow firefighters from around the country and bring home more knowledge to help address fires in Massachusetts.”

“DCR and MassWildlife have stepped up to contribute their hard-earned skills to this important cause,” said DFG Commissioner Tom O’Shea. “Wildfire seasons are intensifying across North America as storms ignite drier forests. These deployments are critical to protect our forests, biodiversity, and adjacent communities.”

Massachusetts deploys firefighting resources through agreements with the U.S. Forest Service and the Northeastern Forest Fire Protection Commission. The state or province requesting assistance covers the costs of the deployment, including salaries, transportation, lodging and food.

Since 1985, DCR’s Bureau of Forest Fire Control and Forestry, in partnership with U.S. Forest Service and the Northeast Forest Fire Protection Commission, has been sending crews to fight fires across North America. In recent years Massachusetts firefighting personnel have been deployed to multiple wildfires, including fires in Montana, Idaho, California, Oregon, Arizona, as well as Canada. Last year, DCR and DFG sent a 20-person crew to Fairbanks, Alaska,, for a two-week deployment. In each case, Massachusetts firefighters are able to apply the unique skills they have learned in service at home and acquire new techniques and expertise they can bring back to address future fires. 

In the fall of 2025, Chief Fire Warden Dave Celino and the DCR wildland firefighters received the Fire Marshall’s award at the 36th annual  Firefighter of the Year awards in recognition of the experience, expertise and firefighting resources they contributed to state’s efforts to combat the historic fires that burned 4,000 acres across Massachusetts during the 2024 wildfire season. 

The responding Massachusetts firefighters are: 

Firefighter Name	Agency	Town of Residence
Liard, Jr. Roy	DCR	Millville
Nash, Declan	DCR	Groton
Consolmagno, Glen	DCR	Franklin
Jerry Hodges	DCR	Chicopee
Mayer, Brian	DCR	Groton
Mazzei, Benjamin	MassWildlife	Pelham
Belote, Alex	DCR	Taunton
Murphy, James	DCR	Plymouth
Smeaton, Cody	DCR	Westport
Andreassi, Michael	DCR	Plainville
Elbing, Carolyn	DCR	Wayland
Holm, Riley	DCR	Worcester
Marino, Vincenzo	DCR	Unionville, CT
Morrison, James	DCR	Walpole
Rivera, Casey	DCR	East Falmouth

3100英里世界距離最長超級馬拉松 60歲組世界紀錄保持者羅維銘訪波士頓

紐約慈濟執行長蘇煜升(右二）帶羅維銘（左二）到波士頓參訪，長金滿（右一）
和鄧淑芳（左一）攜手接待。（周菊子攝）

     （Boston Orange周菊子波士頓報導）8月22日隨紐約慈濟執行長蘇煜升來波士頓參觀的羅維銘，讓聽過馬拉松，卻不知道「超越自我3100英里挑戰賽」，這全世界距離最長超級馬拉松賽的人驚詫，台灣人跑馬拉松這麼厲害，竟然有羅維銘和蔡文雅，締造過世界紀錄。

鄧淑芳（左）等慈濟人還帶羅維銘參觀哈佛大學等波士頓名勝。（周菊子攝）

    在波士頓，幾乎無人不知創辦於1897年的波士頓馬拉松賽，是全世界最古老，歷史最悠久，從未間斷舉辦的馬拉松賽，但是除非極端熱愛馬拉松的人，恐怕都不知道，任何距離超過標準馬拉松42.195公里（約26.2英里）的長跑比賽，都稱為超級馬拉松，還分指定距離賽，指定時間賽，以及例如包含沙漠、極地、高山的極限地形與分站賽等種種不同的馬拉松賽。

    「超越自我3100英里挑戰賽」是由印度精神導師斯里·欽莫伊（Sri Chinmoy）於 1977 年創立，以透過極限長跑進行身心靈冥想，突破自我肉體與精神局限，來「超越自我」，而非與他人競爭的一種活動，也是美國田徑協會（USATF），國際超級馬拉松協會(IAU)，世界田徑總會（World Athletics）等三大田徑與超馬管理機構共同認證，全世界距離最長的超級馬拉松賽事。

    總距離3100英里，大約等於118場標準馬拉松，限時52天，跑者每天平均必須跑59.6英里，只能在凌晨6點至午夜的共18小時內跑的這「超越自我3100英里挑戰賽」，今年第30屆，預定在8月30日至10月20日的52天之內，假紐約皇后區的Thomas A. Edison 高中的周邊街區舉行，每名選手都必須在水泥硬地上繞跑5649圈。

    海軍陸戰隊老兵羅維銘是2002年退伍後，開始長跑，2009年第一次參加希臘雅典10日賽，獲得亞軍。2021年首度受邀參加「超越自我3100英里挑戰賽」，成為這比賽的第一位亞洲跑者，不但以48 天 11 小時 52 分 01 秒奪下亞軍，還因為他在參賽跑步期間，穿著人字夾腳拖鞋，意外引發國際選手跟風，締造了「Ｙ拖傳奇」， 2024年，他第四度參賽，還又以45天12小時37分55秒的成績，成為60歲以上組別的世界紀錄締造者。這比之前紀錄快了約5天122小時的成績，2025年時無人打破，羅維銘也因此迄今仍是世界紀錄保持者。

    羅維銘透露，他從2019年開始堅持吃素，體能不但沒有下降，反而身體恢復得更快，也因此和慈濟證嚴上人結緣，成為了「疏跑盃」代言人，以及慈濟的蔬食推廣大使。「超越自我3100英里挑戰賽」今年慶祝30週年，又再邀請他參賽，這才又來紐約，還因緣際會的有機會首度參訪波士頓。

    蔡文雅則是來自台灣台中的一名花店經營者，2023年4月參加Sri Chinmoy紐約10日賽，奪得冠軍，因而受邀參加同年10月的「超越自我3100英里挑戰賽」，沒想到首度出站就不僅奪得女子組冠軍，還以45 天 12 小時 28 分 44 秒的完賽成績，大幅刷新世界紀錄，還迄今仍是紀錄保持人。

波士頓慈濟慶祝吉祥月 創作藝術裝置「大海龜」推廣環保

波士頓慈濟人慶吉祥月，推廣環保。（周菊子攝）

     (Boston Orange周菊子麻州報導) 慈濟波士頓聯絡處8月22日慶祝「吉祥月」誦經禮佛，大掃除，共享蔬食，協力完成環保裝置藝術「大海龜」，為巡迴展覽做準備。慈濟紐約分會執行長蘇煜升也專程遠道趕來同慶。

紐約慈濟執行長蘇煜升（右一）和波士頓慈濟先後任負責人長金滿（左起）、

鄧淑芳向波士頓僑教中心主任康雅雄（右二）介紹台灣的「超馬老爹」羅維銘（中）。

（周菊子攝）

    在華人傳統習俗中，農曆七月原本有鬼月之稱，是民間燒紙錢，拜祖先的日子，慈濟人認為緬懷祖先才是主要目的，拜拜，燒紙錢有點浪費，特地把七月訂為孝親月，鼓勵人民趁此機會推動環保。

波士頓慈濟的環保裝置藝術作品「大海龜」主要由高金花（左起），

陳裕逢、陳筠媞，長金滿製作。（周菊子攝）

    慈濟波士頓聯絡處今年的「吉祥月」慶祝，也特地在誦經禮佛之外，由前後任負責人長金滿和鄧淑芳率領出席會眾，為牛頓市會所大掃除，一起享用香積組組長高金花烹煮的炒青菜，豆乾，腐皮，酸辣湯，紅豆湯等各色蔬食，以及綿密十分的豆花，預告波士頓慈濟9月8日將開班教人做豆花。

    從2018年上任迄今的紐約慈濟執行長蘇煜升透露，他此行訪波士頓有3大目的，一是第一次來參加吉祥月的活動，穿上志工服，和大家一起大掃除，二為最近在台灣發生的“疫苗風波”，和會眾溝通，三為紐約7個、麻州3個，共10個慈濟服務據點的來年預算編列，開會討論。

紐約慈濟執行長蘇煜升說他還是第一次到波士頓參加「吉祥月」，
也是第一次穿志工服來。（周菊子攝）

    波士頓慈濟的陳裕逢，長金滿，陳筠媞，高金花等人，這天也藉機闡述他們正在籌辦，以藝術裝置推廣環保理念的產品，一個用250個寶特瓶，花了將近3個月製作的綠色大海龜。陳筠媞指出，全世界現存7種海龜，絕大多數已被列為瀕危物種，他們希望透過環保藝術創作，提醒人們愛護地球。陳裕逢表示，他們希望把這裝置藝術作品，放到波士頓華埠大同村，華埠公園，以及其他適合地點展出，藉海洋生物促請更多人關注保護大自然的重要。

    應邀出席的波士頓僑教中心主任康雅雄和中心工作人員李美慧，藉機促請波士頓慈濟協助宣傳雙十國慶文化訪問團的十鼓擊樂團，訂9月7日下午3點到波士頓華埠昆士高中演出。

麻州長Healey簽徵收權法案 警告舊Norwood醫院地主以合理價格出售

麻州州長Maura Healey到Norwood 簽署徵收權法案。 （周菊子攝）

     （Boston Orange綜合報導）麻州州長奚莉（Maura Healey）21日特地到諾伍德（Norwood）醫院舊址前，正式簽署 H.5553 法案，強烈警告地主「醫療地產信託（Medical Properties Trust, MPT）」在 11 月 1 日前與非牟利機構達成出售協議，否則將動用政府「徵收權（Eminent Domain）」，強制接管這土地。

國會眾議員Stephen Lynch強調地區醫院的重要性。（周菊子攝）

        為25萬居民服務的諾伍德醫院，2020 年時因一場暴雨洪水，舊院區嚴重受損而關閉，並拆除重建。經營該院的史都華醫療保健（Steward Health Care）公司於 2024 年爆發財務危機並申請破產，以致醫院重建工程徹底停擺。但是當麻省布里罕醫院（Mass General Brigham， MGB)有意接手時，地主 MPT 卻大抬價格，從 2.5 億美元拉高至 3.75 億美元，導致談判陷入僵局。

麻州參眾議員協力推動此法案。（周菊子攝）

    這變故引發嚴重的區域公共衛生危機，因為當地救護車被迫繞遠路把急症及心臟病患者送往波士頓或布羅克頓（Brockton）的醫院，就一時間嚴重延誤多達40分鐘。 

麻州州長Maura Healey和消防急救人員合影。（周菊子攝）

    麻州議會為破解僵局，火速通過 H.5553 緊急法案，形成 MPT 若未能依法在限期內完成交易，麻州資產管理局（DCAMM） 將有權代表麻州政府強制徵收土地，再移交給麻州公共衛生局（DPH）來透過公開程序招標，尋找符合資格的非營利機構重建與營運醫院。 

    國會眾議員史蒂芬·林奇（Stephen Lynch），麻州參議員邁克爾·拉什（Sen. Mike Rush），眾議員約翰·羅傑斯（John Rogers），與諾伍德鎮長馬祖科（Tony Mazzucco）都出席了這場現場簽署儀式。

    馬祖科感動表示，這項法案是社區多年抗爭的轉折點，他說「我們終於從被動轉為主動，將不惜一切代價讓諾伍德醫院重新開張」。

蘇格蘭「格紋軍團」席捲波士頓熱潮延燒 兩款新格紋將向波士頓致敬

         （Boston Orange編譯） 2026年世界盃期間，蘇格蘭「格紋軍團（Tartan Army）」球迷席捲波士頓，場面盛大，轟動一時，兩地關係升溫。格拉斯哥（Glasgow）最近推出兩款全新蘇格蘭格紋（tartan）設計，向紅襪隊，愛國者隊致敬，誌記格拉斯哥和波士頓的兩市情誼。

        格拉斯哥購物中心「布坎南畫廊（Buchanan Galleries）」委託設計的格紋，以寶石藍為底，綴有黃、綠線條，向芬威球場（Fenway Park）致敬，已在蘇格蘭官方格紋冊上正式登記，並預定在明年四月「格紋日（Tartan Day）」儀式中，做成禮儀裙送給波士頓。格拉斯哥市副市長貝莉·克莉斯蒂·米爾恩斯（Bailie Christy Mearns）期盼這成為兩市友誼象徵。

        球迷團體「東北格紋軍團（North East Tartan Army）」則發佈了由副會長克里斯·吉布森（Chris Gibson）主導，以紅襪隊（Red Sox）與愛國者隊（New England Patriots）代表色為靈感，設計出的深藍底色搭配緋紅格條 -「新蘇格蘭麻州」格紋正申請註冊。吉布森計畫十月再訪波士頓觀賽，並攜帶新格紋送給當地友人。

        兩款格紋顏色與名稱各異，官方認定也不同，但都是因爲世界盃期間蘇格蘭球迷在波士頓受到的熱情接待而生。吉布森認為未來可能出現更多致敬設計，但無論如何，兩市因足球結緣的跨洋情誼將藉由這2款蘇格蘭格紋設計更加濃厚。

Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $6.6 Million to Strengthen Early Education and Out-of-School Time Facilities Across Massachusetts

Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $6.6 Million to Strengthen Early Education and Out-of-School Time Facilities Across Massachusetts Funding will support critical facility upgrades to improve health, safety and accessibility for children and educators

BOSTON — The Healey-Driscoll Administration today announced $6.6 million in grants to 19 early education and out-of-school time programs across Massachusetts to support facility renovations and upgrades that will create safer, more accessible and higher-quality learning environments for children and educators. The grants are awarded through the Department of Early Education and Care's (EEC) Early Education and Out-of-School Time (EEOST) Small Capital Grant program, which is administered in partnership with MassDevelopment. Grants ranging from $200,000 to $500,000 support critical capital improvements at center-based early education and out-of-school time programs across the state. The funding helps providers make renovations that improve the health, safety, accessibility, and quality of learning environments for children, families, and educators. “Child care programs are an essential part of our communities, and every family deserves access to programs where kids can learn, play and grow,” said Governor Maura Healey. “We’re investing in child care across Massachusetts, and that includes making sure providers have the resources to improve their classrooms, playgrounds and facilities. These grants will help programs make important upgrades that benefit kids, families and educators every day.” "Investing in child care means investing in the places where children spend their days learning, playing and building relationships," said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll.  “These grants will help programs across Massachusetts make the improvements they need – from modernizing classrooms and play spaces to improving accessibility and building safety – so they can better serve children and families.” The EEOST Small Capital Grant program provides funding for projects that sustain and improve Massachusetts' essential child care infrastructure. Eligible projects include renovations and upgrades that enhance health and safety; improve accessibility and inclusion; modernize classrooms and indoor and outdoor play spaces; address critical building needs; and advance climate resilience and sustainability. “High-quality learning environments are foundational to student success, and that starts with our youngest learners,” said Education Secretary Steve Zrike. “These investments will help early education and out-of-school time programs create safe, accessible and engaging spaces where children can learn, grow and build the skills they need to thrive.” "A safe and welcoming learning environment supports curiosity, development, and a sense of belonging," said Early Education and Care Commissioner Amy Kershaw. "These grants will help programs make lasting improvements that enhance children's daily experiences and strengthen early education across the Commonwealth." Projects funded through this round include: Improvements to outdoor play spaces; Upgrades to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems; Renovations to classrooms, bathrooms, and gross motor spaces; Emergency repairs and critical upgrades to roofs, electrical systems, and other building infrastructure; Accessibility improvements to better support children and adults with disabilities; and Security enhancements, including security cameras and access control systems. “Strong economies depend on strong child care programs, which provide nurturing environments for children to learn and grow and empower parents and guardians to participate in the workforce as they choose,” said MassDevelopment President and CEO Navjeet Bal. “We are glad to see these grants support crucial upgrades to 19 child care facilities across the state, creating safer, more accessible classrooms and play spaces for children and educators.” This $6.6 million investment builds on Governor Healey’s efforts to strengthen child care across Massachusetts, including $4.3 million announced last week to strengthen family child care programs across the state. The administration is also investing in the early education workforce, including $15 million for the state’s first-ever loan repayment program for early childhood educators and $1.4 million to train and place more than 250 early childhood education apprentices. These investments are helping strengthen and expand the child care system. Since Governor Healey took office, Massachusetts has added more than 22,000 child care seats, while C3 funding has helped more than 8,000 child care programs remain open. FY2027 Early Education and Out-of-School Time (EEOST) Small Capital Grant awardees: Boys & Girls Club of Lynn: $310,000 Boys and Girls Club Family Center: $499,999 Boys and Girls Clubs of Dorchester: $479,805 Children's Aid and Family Service, Inc.: $340,000 Community Action Pioneer Valley, Inc.: $256,592 Crispus Attucks Children's Center: $372,585 East Boston Social Centers, Inc.: $250,000 For Kids Only After School, Incorporated: $240,604 Girls Inc. of Lynn: $209,300 Guild of St. Agnes: $499,999 New North Citizen Council: $212,353 NorthStar Learning Centers, Inc.: $498,799 Robbins Children's Programs, Inc.: $400,574 SMOC: $360,000 The Athol Area YMCA: $425,326 Waltham Boys & Girls Club, Inc.: $375,038 Woburn Council of Social Concern, Inc.: $204,750 YMCA of Central MA: $220,645 Young Men's Christian Association Southcoast: $460,000

Massachusetts’ Unemployment Rate Unchanged at 4.4%; Labor Force Participation Remains Steady in July

Massachusetts’ Unemployment Rate Unchanged at 4.4%; Labor Force Participation Remains Steady in July

 

Boston - Today, the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD) released Massachusetts unemployment and job estimates for July 2026, with preliminary data indicating that payroll jobs decreased by 4,600 for the month, following a revised increase of 6,000 jobs in June. Massachusetts has added 17,800 payroll jobs, including 15,900 private sector jobs, since September. Preliminary data also shows the July unemployment rate remained at 4.4% and Labor Force Participation Rate remained at 65.3%.

 

BLS categories with the strongest growth month-over-month for Massachusetts employment in July includes 1) Private Education and Health Services (+1,900), 2) Other Services (+1,200), and 3) Professional and Business Services (+1,100).

 

“The unemployment rate and labor force participation rate were unchanged, while jobs fell slightly in July,” said EOLWD’s Department of Economic Research Chief Economist Mark Rembert. “While Massachusetts job growth remains strong, we continue to monitor labor market trends for challenges and opportunities, including for workers 25 and 54, who are experiencing high labor force participation and low unemployment rates and younger workers who face a more challenging labor market currently.”

 

In recent weeks, the Healey-Driscoll Administration has announced or highlighted several investments tied to job creation, training, and workforce opportunities. Highlights include:

 

• Governor Healey recently announced $6 million in Business Builds Capital Grants to support six major business expansion projects across Massachusetts. The projects will leverage more than $300 million in private investment, create an expected 1,000 new jobs, and will help companies expand facilities, modernize equipment, and advance industry-leading technologies. 
• Last week, the Healey-Driscoll Administration announced $15.5 million in Career Technical Initiative (CTI) grants to 24 organizations to train 1,636 individuals for careers in high-demand occupations within the skilled trades, construction, and manufacturing sectors across Massachusetts. 
• The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced $5.9 million in workforce development grant funding for 12 initiatives across Massachusetts, representing partnerships with employers, training providers, and regional collaborators to train, upskill, and provide job placement for 951 workers for in-demand occupations in health care, logistics, education, information technology and more.
• The Healey-Driscoll Administration and MassVentures announced $4.5 million in grants to 26 Massachusetts startups developing cutting-edge technologies in life sciences, robotics, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, clean energy and other growing industries.
• TIME Magazine this week recognized nine Massachusetts startup incubators and accelerators among the best in the country – more than any state except California.
• U.S. News & World Report this week found that Massachusetts has the highest share of top-performing public high schools of any state in the country, with 47 percent of eligible Massachusetts high schools ranking in the top quarter nationally. 

Key takeaways from the monthly jobs and employment report

 

• The Massachusetts unemployment rate in July remained at 4.4 percent. The national unemployment rate is 4.1 percent.
• The state’s Labor Force Participation Rate remained at 65.3 percent. Massachusetts Labor Force Participation Rate is 3.9 percentage points higher than the national rate.
• The labor force decreased in July by 2,700 with 200 fewer people employed and 2,500 fewer unemployed. This includes individuals who have retired or left the workforce for other reasons and individuals who are self-employed and entrepreneurs.

For a detailed overview of the BLS data, please visit mass.gov/EconomicResearch and July BLS Unemployment and Jobs Estimates. August unemployment and job estimates are scheduled to be released on Friday, September 18, 2026.

 

Labor Market Quick Links

 

• Mass.gov/UnemploymentRates
• Unemployment and Labor Force Data
• Employment Information by Industry
• Employment Information by Occupation
• Labor Market Information 101 

MassHire Services

 

MassHire provides free workforce services for both jobseekers and employers across Massachusetts. Jobseekers can explore job openings through MassHire JobQuest, attend hiring events, access training opportunities, and receive personalized support at a local MassHire Career Center. Employers can connect with Business Services Representatives to recruit their workforce and participate in job fairs to support hiring and business growth.

 

Note: The unemployment rate is based on a household survey, while job estimates come from an employer survey. Because these surveys are separate, the two statistics may show different trends from month to month.

波士頓市長吳弭慶祝白體育場案勝訴 今秋將就交通及停車開 4 場公聽會

波士頓市長吳弭慶祝“白體育場”案勝訴。（波士頓市府圖片，Mike Mejia攝） 

         （Boston Orange綜合編譯）波士頓市長吳弭（Michelle Wu）8月20日在法蘭克林公園William J. Devine高爾夫球場宣佈，「白體育場（White Sadium）」ㄧ案，麻州最高法院（SJC）裁定波士頓市府勝訴，翻修一旦竣工，將全年開放，今秋將就交通及停車問題開4場會議，聽取民意。

波士頓市長吳弭在會場開心回答民眾提問。（周菊子攝）

        麻州最高法院認爲法蘭克林公園（Franklin Park）內的白體育場（White Stadium）屬於學校設施而非受保護的公園綠地，否定了翡翠項鍊保護協會（Emerald Necklace Conservancy）和法蘭克林公園守護者（Franklin Park Defenders）等社區團體的法律挑戰。

        重建“白體育場”是波士頓市政府透過公私夥伴關係（PPP），為波士頓公立學校（Boston Public Schools, BPS）田徑隊和職業女子足球隊「波士頓傳奇FC（Boston Legacy FC）」打造全新主場的一項計劃。

波士頓市長和公園局工作人員合影。（波士頓市府圖片，Mike Mejia攝） 

        “白體育場”的整間經費，將由波士頓市府承擔1.35億美元，波士頓傳奇FC出資約1.90億美元，共3.25億美元，比最初估價高近2億元，讓反對派在批評此舉涉嫌公共綠地私有化，可能對地方交通造成衝擊之外，更質疑花那麼多錢是否值得。

活動現場的慶祝演奏。（波士頓市府圖片，Mike Mejia攝） 

        吳弭市長強調，這是升級老舊設施的罕見契機，何況合作計劃還承諾在15年內為社區提供2.52億美元福利。目前波士頓市府和球隊，已發包5,420萬美元工程合約，給Outcast Electric 與 Inner City Fire Protection 等波士頓市的在地、少數族裔及女性企業。

        白體育場的翻修工程早從2025年已啟動，目前保持每週六天施工，只是受訴訟干擾影響，原定完工時程已變更為“待定“，市府與球隊老闆詹妮弗·葉普斯汀（Jennifer Epstein）均未承諾能否趕上國家女子足球聯賽（NWSL）預定2027年2月開打的賽季。

        波士頓市府計劃今年秋季在洛士百利（Roxbury）、牙買加平原（Jamaica Plain）、麥特潘（Mattapan）及多徹斯特（Dorchester）召開四場社區會議，持續和民眾協商交通與停車方案。

CITY OF BOSTON, BROAD COALITION OF SUPPORTERS WELCOME SJC DECISION CLEARING THE WAY FOR TRANSFORMATIVE WHITE STADIUM PROJECT 

Unanimous SJC decision moves forward long-overdue transformation of White Stadium into a state-of-the-art facility for BPS athletics and a year-round community hub in the heart of Franklin Park 

BOSTON - Thursday, August 20, 2026 - Mayor Michelle Wu, joined by Boston Public Schools leaders, student-athletes and coaches, after-school youth organizations, park advocates, parents, residents, elected officials, small business owners, and Boston Legacy FC welcomed the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court’s unanimous decision affirming the City’s ability to move forward with a long-overdue renovation of White Stadium that will deliver a state-of-the-art athletic facility for BPS students and significant public benefits for Franklin Park, local businesses, and the surrounding communities. 

The decision clears the way for construction to continue on a generational investment in Boston’s students, families, and public spaces. Through the City’s public-private partnership with Boston Legacy FC, White Stadium is being renovated as a modern, fully accessible athletic complex, owned by Boston Public Schools and available as a public asset in every season. 

“This clear and unanimous decision from the state’s highest court confirms that Boston’s student-athletes, park lovers, and community will fully benefit from this landmark investment in our future, without further delay,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “Renovations at White Stadium in Franklin Park are well underway to deliver a state-of-the-art facility that will be available in every season, open every day of the year, and create opportunities for unprecedented public benefit. Thank you to the many coaches, students, park users, neighbors, Franklin Park Coalition members, and Boston Legacy Football Club who have partnered with us for years to advance this generational project. This is a great victory for our City—and for all who believe that Boston can and should take big swings to get things done for our community.”

"Yesterday’s Supreme Judicial Court ruling is a tremendous victory for Boston Public Schools students, the Franklin Park community, and the future of professional women's soccer in Boston. The Court's decision clears the way for completing the White Stadium renovation and delivering a world-class facility that will serve our community for generations, and sets a national standard for youth athletics and professional women’s soccer," said Jennifer Epstein, Controlling Owner of Boston Legacy FC. "Together with the City of Boston and our project partners, we look forward to welcoming students, neighbors, athletes, and fans to a revitalized White Stadium."

Following a multiyear public review process, including Boston School Committee and Article 80 approvals shaped by extensive community engagement, the City is advancing a comprehensive redevelopment of the historic facility. The project addresses significant and outstanding infrastructure challenges, including structural issues in the grandstands, decades-old fire damage in the East Grandstand, outdated and inoperable plumbing, water-damaged floors, and systems that no longer meet modern building, fire and accessibility standards. 

When completed, the new White Stadium will feature state-of-the-art facilities that include a natural grass field, a regulation-size track with field event facilities, expanded athletic training and strength and conditioning areas, modern locker rooms, sports medicine space, flexible study and community rooms and improved accessibility throughout the complex.

“The White Stadium project is bringing unprecedented resources to Franklin Park,” said Diana Fernandez Bibeau, Commissioner of Parks and Recreation & Deputy Chief of Open Space. “From a generational investment in our tree canopy and expanded accessibility to major lighting improvements and new funding, this critical project advances a community-led vision for a stronger parks system, one that grows, protects and cares for the open spaces that serve every Bostonian.”

“Boston Public Schools is committed to ensuring our students have access to opportunities and high-quality spaces that support their learning, growth, and success beyond the classroom,” said Boston Public Schools Superintendent Mary Skipper. “White Stadium is part of this work and will become a home for BPS Athletics, giving our student-athletes a place to develop their skills, build confidence, and take pride in being part of their school and community. We are grateful for our partnership with the City of Boston, Boston Legacy FC, and our community partners as we work together to create a world-class athletic facility that will serve BPS students and the Boston community for years to come.”

A transformed White Stadium will deliver $252 million in privately-funded community benefits over the next 15 years to Boston – the largest community and public benefits deal in City history. With these benefits, the City is also focused on ensuring every community is connected to economic opportunities created by this project. To date, the City and Boston Legacy LC have already awarded $54.2 million in contracts to local and minority- and women-owned businesses, including Outcast Electric, Inner City Fire Protection, and General Air.

This Fall, the City is planning to host four neighborhood-wide community meetings in Roxbury, Jamaica Plain, Mattapan, and Dorchester. These meetings will inform residents and provide opportunities to engage ahead of decisions on surrounding game-day parking and more. Dates and locations for these community meetings will be posted next week at boston.gov/whitestadium. 

“For years, the Franklin Park Coalition has worked tirelessly to advance a positive, shared vision for White Stadium that incorporates our community’s ideas, concerns and feedback,” said Rickie Thompson, Franklin Park Coalition President. “This court ruling affirms that this generational project can finally move forward, delivering a renovated, well-maintained White Stadium for Franklin Park, community members and families for the first time in decades. We are thankful to Mayor Wu for her vision and the City’s diligent efforts to listen and incorporate feedback at all stages of the project. FPC will continue to advocate for all park users and work closely with the City and Boston Legacy FC as construction continues.”

“As a former BPS student and now a coach, I’ve always believed in doing everything we can to help our kids reach their full potential,” said Coach Hatim Jean-Louis Head Coach, BPS Cross Country. “For years, our young people have faced so many challenges while trying to play the sport they love, have fun with their friends and access resources. Today is a big win for Boston. By renovating White Stadium, the City is investing in our young people and building a facility we all can be proud of and call ours. I’m thankful to Mayor Wu for fighting for our young people and excited for Boston to see our city kids talent on display in a world-class stadium throughout the year.”

“I'm so glad to hear this project is moving forward. As a BPS parent, a local business owner, and an active member of this community, I'm genuinely excited for what this means for our students, and I know so many of my neighbors feel the same way. This isn't just about a stadium. It's about our park, our greater community, and the small business ecosystem that makes this neighborhood what it is. It's about our legacy as a city for our next generation. Our kids will get to grow up with access to a world class facility, which is a first for a public school system, and doing that in partnership with a professional women's sports team makes it even more meaningful. This is the moment we've been waiting for, the moment where we get to stop debating and start building something that truly serves our kids and our community. Now it's time for us to come together and collaborate so we can collectively make sure this project meets its full potential,” said Beth Santos, BPS Parent and local Business owner (co-owner of Ula Café). 

“Thankful for the unanimous decision by the SJC that will now enable the entire city to move forward with developing the best solutions at White Stadium for the students and residents of Boston,” said State Representative Russell Holmes.

“So very excited for the stadium to proceed without further delay. Our students will have one of the nicest public school stadiums in the state, our businesses will benefit from the increased foot traffic and spending, and our neighborhood will be filled with the excitement of a professional women’s soccer team!,” said State Representative Sam Montaño.

“The Mayor came up with a plan to renovate a BPS facility so that it can once again be a great resource primarily for our kids. This recent SJC decision, and the earlier decisions of the two Superior Court judges, affirmed that this will first and foremost continue to be a BPS facility and be accessible to our communities for their benefit,” said City Councilor Ben Weber.

Crews are working six-day weeks to keep the White Stadium rebuild on schedule, with construction phase to allow fit-out work to begin in the southern wing. Utility work is on track to wrap up soon, restoring park roads for the start of cross country season. 

Visit www.boston.gov/white-stadium for the latest information on White Stadium.