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The Boston Public Health Commission warns residents of a cyanobacteria algae bloom in the Muddy River in Fenway, between Brookline Avenue and Avenue Louis Pasteur. The presence of cyanobacteria cells exceeds state guidelines, posing health risks to both people and pets. Residents are advised to avoid contact with the water and algae-affected areas.
The Boston City Council passed a resolution supporting Tufts University’s Professors of the Practice in their contract negotiations, citing slow progress and inadequate engagement from university leadership. Faculty seek a 4% cost-of-living increase, while Tufts has only offered 2.75%. The resolution emphasizes the importance of investing in faculty to uphold equity and academic excellence.
Boston officials issued a traffic advisory for events occurring on August 8, 2025. Attendees are encouraged to use alternative transportation methods such as walking, biking, or public transit.
Boston's City Council declared August 6 Jamaica Independence Day, commemorating 63 years since Jamaica's independence. The resolution, introduced by Councilor Worrell, highlights the significant contributions of Boston's Jamaican community, which constitutes 34 percent of Massachusetts' foreign-born Jamaicans.
The Boston City Council will designate August 15 as Dominican Cultural Day, commemorating the 162nd anniversary of the Dominican Republic's Restoration of Independence. The Dominican community, Boston's second-largest Latino and immigrant population, significantly contributes to the city through various sectors including business and education. Their cultural impact is evident in music, dance, art, and civic leadership throughout the city.
The Council condemned the Trump Administration's plan to repeal the EPA's endangerment finding, which identifies greenhouse gases as a public health threat. The resolution warns that this repeal jeopardizes decades of environmental progress and increases risks for vulnerable communities in Boston.
Mayor Michelle Wu announced the 27 businesses selected for Boston's SCALE Program, which provides technical assistance and up to $200,000 in grant funding to support minority- and women-owned businesses in securing city contracts. This initiative, backed by $6.5 million from the American Rescue Plan Act, aims to enhance competitive access to public contracts for small businesses.
Pope Leo XIV addressed over a million Catholic youths in Rome, urging them to be “the sign that a different world is possible” through dialogue instead of violence. He expressed solidarity with young people suffering in war-torn regions like Gaza and Ukraine during the closing Mass for the Jubilee of Youth. The event, part of a Holy Year pilgrimage, drew participants from around 150 countries.
The Boston Red Sox pursued Minnesota Twins pitcher Joe Ryan ahead of the MLB trade deadline but failed to finalize a deal. Red Sox chief baseball officer Craig Breslow defended the team's offer, countering claims that it was inadequate. Despite their efforts, the Twins wanted proven major league talent in addition to prospects.
Federal agents detained eight MBTA subway car shells in Philadelphia while investigating potential forced labor involvement in their production. Manufactured by China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation, the shells are flagged under the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act, which prohibits U.S. imports linked to forced labor practices. MBTA's General Manager confirmed that production continues in Springfield, unaffected by the detainment.