The Bridge

The Pan-Mass Challenge Cycles Beyond $1 Billion in Lifetime Fundraising for Cancer Research in 45 Years

Published

11 months ago

August 5, 2024

Daily News Staff

World’s Single Most Successful Athletic Fundraiser Aims to Raise Unprecedented $75 million in 2024

The Pan-Mass Challenge

BOSTON /PRNewswire/ — On Saturday, August 3, and Sunday, August 4, the Pan-Mass Challenge (PMC) will bring together thousands of cyclists and volunteers from around the world with a goal of raising $75 million during its milestone 45th ride. This year, the PMC crossed $1 billion in lifetime fundraising for cancer research and treatment for its sole beneficiary, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

2a750845 aec1 4d22 ab19 c86bcf2b452a — This weekend, 6,800 riders from around the globe will cycle between 25 and 211 miles across Massachusetts during the milestone 45th Pan-Mass Challenge. In July, the organization crossed $1 billion in lifetime fundraising for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Photo Credit: John Deputy

When the PMC was founded in 1980, there were fewer than five million cancer survivors in the United States. Today, that number is more than 18 million—and growing. As Dana-Farber’s largest single contributor—accounting for 62 percent of its Jimmy Fund’s annual revenue—PMC funding has enabled the Institute to drive change in how cancer is researched and treated. The PMC’s “fingerprints” can be found in every research breakthrough and all areas of care, from immunotherapy to cancer care equity efforts. PMC funding assists with many innovative programs including Dana-Farber’s ongoing work to treat pediatric brain cancer that led to recent FDA approval of tovorafenib (now known as OJEMDA). The drug targets for pediatric low-grade glioma in patients six months and older. Many of the drug’s early clinical trials were funded directly by PMC riders who had family members with pediatric brain cancer.

For the 18^th consecutive year, the PMC will donate 100 percent of every rider-raised dollar directly to Dana-Farber to support trailblazing innovations like this that save lives and advance the standards of care in the fight against cancer.

“This is a momentous year for the PMC and our community—from our cyclists to our volunteers, donors and sponsors,” said Billy Starr, founder and executive director of the PMC and a Dana-Farber trustee. “While I knew in 1980 that I had created something special, I couldn’t have predicted the PMC would turn into the fundraising behemoth it is today. As I saddle up for my 45^th ride, I am immensely grateful for each and every individual who has contributed to this $1 billion fundraising achievement and who will help us kick start fundraising towards our next billion.”

PMC 2024 will bring together 6,800 riders from 10 countries and 45 states and territories, including many who ride in honor of someone close to them who has been affected by cancer. In addition, 3,500 volunteers will support the event across the rides’ 16 one- and two-day routes throughout Massachusetts. The routes range from 25 to 211 miles and accommodate all levels of cycling and fundraising ability. At the cornerstone of the PMC community are the more than 1,100 riders and volunteers who are cancer survivors and current patients, considered Living Proof® of the PMC’s mission, and the progress made through fundraising for cancer research and care.

“For over four and a half decades, PMC funding has played an integral and impactful role in our researchers’ and doctors’ abilities to innovate and discover new ways to treat cancer,” said Laurie H. Glimcher, MD, president and chief executive officer of Dana-Farber. “The energy and excitement each PMC Weekend brings is unmatched—I’m looking forward to cheering on the PMC community, including 160 Dana-Farber colleagues who are riding and volunteering, as we celebrate crossing $1 billion raised together.”

The PMC is co-presented by the Red Sox Foundation® and M&T Bank. To make a financial contribution to a rider from your town, visit www.pmc.org, or call (800) WE-CYCLE. Connect with #PMC2024 on Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn.

About the Pan-Mass Challenge
The Pan-Mass Challenge (PMC) is a bike-a-thon that today raises more money for charity than any other single athletic fundraising event in the world. The PMC was founded in 1980 by Billy Starr, who remains the event’s executive director, an annual cyclist, and a fundraiser. The PMC has since raised $972 million for adult and pediatric patient care and cancer research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute through the Jimmy Fund. The event donates 100 percent of every rider-raised dollar directly to the cause, generating 62 percent of the Jimmy Fund’s annual revenue as Dana-Farber’s single largest contributor. The PMC has successfully melded support from committed cyclists, volunteers, corporate sponsors, and individual contributors, all of which are essential to the PMC’s goal and model: to attain maximum fundraising efficiency while increasing its annual gift. The PMC’s hope and aspiration is to provide Dana-Farber’s doctors and researchers with the necessary resources to discover cures for all cancers. For more information on the Pan-Mass Challenge, visit www.pmc.org.

About Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is one of the world’s leading centers of cancer research and treatment. Dana-Farber’s mission is to reduce the burden of cancer through scientific inquiry, clinical care, education, community engagement, and advocacy. Dana-Farber is a federally designated Comprehensive Cancer Center and a teaching affiliate of Harvard Medical School. We provide the latest treatments in cancer for adults through Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center and for children through Dana-Farber/Boston Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center. Dana-Farber is the only hospital nationwide with a top 5 U.S. News & World Report Best Cancer Hospital ranking in both adult and pediatric care. As a global leader in oncology, Dana-Farber is dedicated to a unique and equal balance between cancer research and care, translating the results of discovery into new treatments for patients locally and around the world, offering more than 1,100 clinical trials.

SOURCE Pan-Mass Challenge

The Bridge is a section of the STM Daily News Blog meant for diversity, offering real news stories about bona fide community efforts to perpetuate a greater good. The purpose of The Bridge is to connect the divides that separate us, fostering understanding and empathy among different groups. By highlighting positive initiatives and inspirational actions, The Bridge aims to create a sense of unity and shared purpose. This section brings to light stories of individuals and organizations working tirelessly to promote inclusivity, equality, and mutual respect. Through these narratives, readers are encouraged to appreciate the richness of diverse perspectives and to participate actively in building stronger, more cohesive communities.

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Urbanism

California High-Speed Rail Fights Back: CHSRA’s Forceful Response to Federal Defunding Threat

“California fights back as feds threaten to pull $4B from high-speed rail. CHSRA calls termination ‘unjustified’ in heated battle.”

Published

4 days ago

June 16, 2025

Rod Washington, Railfan Rod

Image Credit: CHSRA

June 14, 2025

The California High-Speed Rail project finds itself at a critical crossroads as the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) moves to terminate $4 billion in federal funding agreements. In what has become a high-stakes political and infrastructure battle, the California High-Speed Rail Authority (CHSRA) has issued a forceful rebuttal, calling the proposed termination “unwarranted and unjustified.”

The Federal Challenge

On June 4, 2025, Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy released a damning 310-page report concluding that California’s high-speed rail project has no viable path forward. The FRA’s assessment cites several critical issues:

$7 billion funding gap that the Authority allegedly lacks a credible plan to close
Missed 2024 procurement deadline for train purchases
Significant cost overruns and project delays
Default on federal grant terms according to the federal review

The report represents the Trump administration’s latest effort to halt what critics have long called a “boondoggle,” with the federal government threatening to pull the plug on agreements that have been in place since 2009.

CHSRA’s Counterattack

CHSRA CEO Ian Choudri didn’t mince words in his June 12 response, delivering what industry observers are calling one of the most comprehensive rebuttals in the project’s controversial history. The Authority’s 14-page response systematically challenges the FRA’s conclusions on multiple fronts.

Key Points in CHSRA’s Defense:

Misrepresentation of Inspector General Report: The Authority argues that the FRA has fundamentally mischaracterized findings from a 2025 Office of the Inspector General report, using selective interpretations to support predetermined conclusions.

Historical Context Matters: CHSRA emphasizes that “information that the FRA had when it chose to enter into cooperative agreements (in 2009) cannot now be a basis for termination.” The Authority contends that the federal government was fully aware of project challenges from the beginning.

Progress Despite Challenges: The response highlights ongoing construction progress and argues that the project continues to meet essential milestones, despite the complex nature of building America’s first true high-speed rail system.

The Broader Implications

This confrontation extends far beyond California’s borders. The outcome could determine the future of high-speed rail development across the United States and signal whether ambitious infrastructure projects can survive changing political administrations.

What’s at Stake:

$4 billion in federal funding that could be redirected to other transportation projects
Thousands of construction jobs currently supporting the Central Valley construction
America’s high-speed rail ambitions and competitiveness with global transportation leaders
State-federal partnership models for major infrastructure investments

Construction Continues Amid Uncertainty

Despite the federal threats, construction work continues in California’s Central Valley. The Spring 2025 construction update shows ongoing progress on viaducts, stations, and rail infrastructure between Merced and Bakersfield. Workers remain on the job while lawyers and politicians battle over the project’s future.

The visual progress stands in stark contrast to the political turmoil, with concrete structures rising from the valley floor and rail systems taking shape. For many observers, this creates a surreal dynamic where physical construction proceeds while the project’s financial foundation faces potential collapse.

The 37-Day Countdown

CHSRA now has 37 days from the FRA’s notice to provide a comprehensive response before potential grant termination. This timeline creates intense pressure for the Authority to not only defend its record but also present a convincing path forward that addresses federal concerns.

The Authority’s initial response suggests they’re prepared for a prolonged legal and political battle, with CEO Choudri’s statement indicating they view the termination threat as politically motivated rather than based on legitimate project management concerns.

Looking Ahead

As this infrastructure drama unfolds, several key questions remain:

Can CHSRA provide a convincing funding plan to close the $7 billion gap?
Will political considerations ultimately override technical project assessments?
How will this battle affect future federal-state infrastructure partnerships?
What happens to the billions already invested if the project is terminated?

The California High-Speed Rail project has survived numerous political challenges, funding crises, and technical setbacks over its 15-year history. Whether it can survive this latest existential threat may depend as much on political will as engineering capability.

For now, the trains aren’t running, but the political machinery is working overtime. The next few weeks will likely determine whether America’s most ambitious transportation project continues toward completion or becomes a costly lesson in infrastructure ambition versus political reality.

What do you think about this ongoing battle between state and federal authorities over high-speed rail? Have you been following the project’s progress, and do you see this as a necessary infrastructure investment or a project that’s gone too far off track? Leave a comment!

STM Daily News is a vibrant news blog dedicated to sharing the brighter side of human experiences. Emphasizing positive, uplifting stories, the site focuses on delivering inspiring, informative, and well-researched content. With a commitment to accurate, fair, and responsible journalism, STM Daily News aims to foster a community of readers passionate about positive change and engaged in meaningful conversations. Join the movement and explore stories that celebrate the positive impacts shaping our world.

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child education

Choose Play Every Day: How to transform everyday activities into playful learning opportunities

Published

1 week ago

June 13, 2025

Daily News Staff

(Family Features) Play is a universal language spoken by people of all ages. Through play, children learn to forge connections with others, build a wide range of leadership skills, develop resilience, conquer fears and navigate relationships and social challenges. For babies and toddlers, play is about far more than just having fun; it’s about learning and building important skills, from cognitive and physical to emotional and social abilities. As children get older, play helps reduce stress levels, process difficult emotions, promote problem-solving and build confidence – skills they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Despite its importance, play is often undervalued and overlooked due to busy schedules, lack of resources or misconceptions about its benefits. Approximately 4 in 10 children ages 2-4 do not get enough responsive interaction or stimulation at home, based on estimates from UNICEF, and roughly 1 in 8 children under age 5 don’t have toys or playthings at home. To overcome these barriers, it’s essential for parents and caregivers to recognize the value of both structured and unstructured play. Simple, everyday items – like kitchen utensils, cardboard boxes, leaves and stones – can be tools for imaginative play. Setting aside dedicated time for play, even in short intervals, can make a difference. 17478 detail image embed1

In honor of International Day of Play, consider these ideas to turn everyday activities into playful learning opportunities from UNICEF, which recognizes play as an important means to help children by providing access to evidence-based parenting programs and working with governments to prioritize play-based teaching and learning practices in schools and other learning environments.

Turn a grocery shopping trip into a scavenger hunt to teach kids about different foods, counting and categorization.
Role play or act out different scenarios you read in books or see in movies to help develop social skills and emotional understanding.
Make important language connections when getting dressed, such as identifying different articles of clothing and teaching colors.
Use bathtime to explore buoyancy and water with floating toys.
Play “I spy” while driving in the car or going for a walk around your neighborhood to help kids identify different animals, shapes, colors and elements of nature like trees, clouds and more.
Explore the kitchen through tasks such as choosing ingredients, measuring them and keeping time while cooking.
Use puzzles and building blocks to help develop problem-solving skills and hand-eye coordination.
Stimulate senses and promote fine motor skills through play with materials like sand, water or crafting dough.
Make sorting laundry educational by asking children to match socks by color or size, reinforcing their understanding of sorting and categorization.
Take turns doing the feeding at snack or mealtimes to build hand-eye coordination.

Find more ways to engage your children in fun, engaging play at unicefusa.org/play. collect?v=1&tid=UA 482330 7&cid=1955551e 1975 5e52 0cdb 8516071094cd&sc=start&t=pageview&dl=http%3A%2F%2Ftrack.familyfeatures

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SOURCE: UNICEF

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Blog

Get Ready for Takeoff: The LAX/Metro Transit Center is Now Open!

“No traffic, no hassle – LAX/Metro Transit Center opens June 6, connecting LA directly to the airport via rail for the first time.”

Published

1 week ago

June 12, 2025

Rod Washington, Railfan Rod

A new era of seamless airport connectivity arrives in Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA – The wait is finally over. After years of anticipation, the LAX/Metro Transit Center officially opened its doors on June 6, 2025, marking a transformative moment for Los Angeles transportation infrastructure. This isn’t just another transit station – it’s a game-changer that connects the sprawling metropolis directly to one of the world’s busiest airports.

From LA to LAX, Seamlessly

The new LAX/Metro Transit Center represents more than just concrete and steel; it’s the realization of a long-held dream for car-free airport access in Los Angeles. The station creates a direct connection between Metro’s C Line (Green) and K Line (Crenshaw/LAX) to LAX terminals via free airport shuttles, offering travelers a faster, more convenient alternative to navigating LA’s notorious traffic.

“No traffic, no hassle” – that’s the promise this new facility delivers to the millions of passengers who pass through LAX annually. For residents across LA County, this means saying goodbye to expensive parking fees, ride-share surge pricing, and the stress of driving in airport traffic.

A Transit Hub with Artistic Soul

The centerpiece of the LAX/Metro Transit Center is “The Distance of the Sun,” a breathtaking sculpture by artist Glenn Kaino. Suspended above the escalators, this spiral of real and imagined spacecraft symbolizes our collective dreams of exploration and connection – a fitting metaphor for a facility that literally connects ground to sky.

The artwork transforms what could have been just another utilitarian transit space into something that speaks to the human spirit of adventure and discovery. It’s these thoughtful touches that elevate public infrastructure from merely functional to truly inspiring.

What This Means for LA Communities

The opening of the LAX/Metro Transit Center extends far beyond convenience for air travelers. This facility represents a significant investment in sustainable transportation, reducing vehicle emissions and traffic congestion throughout the region. For communities along the C and K Lines, it opens up new employment opportunities at LAX and related businesses.

The economic ripple effects are substantial. Workers living in areas served by these rail lines now have direct, affordable access to one of LA’s largest employment centers. Similarly, tourists and business travelers can now explore neighborhoods throughout LA County without needing a rental car.

Getting There: Your Connection Options

The LAX/Metro Transit Center is accessible via:

Metro Rail Lines:

C Line (Green Line)
K Line (Crenshaw/LAX Line)

Metro Bus Lines: Multiple bus routes connect to the station, creating a comprehensive network that serves communities across LA County.

Other Transportation Services: The station also accommodates various other bus services, making it a true multimodal transportation hub.

What Travelers Can Expect

The facility features modern amenities designed with the traveler in mind:

Security cameras and enhanced lighting for safety
Real-time train arrival information
Clean, comfortable restrooms
A bike hub for cyclists
Climate-controlled waiting areas

Location: 9225 Aviation Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045

A Celebration Worth Noting

To mark this historic opening, Metro offered free rides system-wide from Friday through Sunday during the opening weekend – a gesture that allowed the entire community to experience this new connection firsthand.

Looking Forward

The LAX/Metro Transit Center represents more than just improved airport access; it’s a symbol of Los Angeles’ commitment to sustainable, equitable transportation solutions. As the region continues to grow and evolve, infrastructure projects like this demonstrate how thoughtful planning can create connections that benefit entire communities.

For frequent flyers, daily commuters, and occasional travelers alike, the LAX/Metro Transit Center offers something that seemed impossible just a few years ago: a stress-free way to get to and from LAX. In a city where traffic is legendary, that’s nothing short of revolutionary.

The LAX/Metro Transit Center is located at 9225 Aviation Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045. For trip planning and current schedules, visit metro.net.

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