WGBH Local News
VIDEO: The Common Blooms with Flags
Watch the Boston Common turn from green to a patriotic red, white and blue for Memorial Day.
Local Voices
Planet Takeout: Dinner, and a Cultural Crossroads
The Chinese takeout is more than a quick stop to grab dinner. In every neighborhood, it's a place where people from opposite sides of the globe meet to learn something about who we are and how we live.
Local Voices
Val Wang Talks About Planet Takeout
Thursday is the first installment of Planet Takeout, Val Wang's exploration into Boston Chinese takeout joints as a nexus of community. She talks to Bob Seay about how she got the idea for the project.
Religion
Presentation School Opens to Community
Shuttered in 2005 by the Boston Archdiocese, a beloved parochial school has reopened its doors as a community center. Volunteers talk about the journey.
Poverty
An Affordable Home for Seniors
The elderly can have a hard time finding housing in Boston, one of the most expensive real estate markets in the country. We report on a unique partnership that's making a difference.
Animals
Managing Boston's Stray Cats: Part 2—The Clinic
In some neighborhoods, the stray cat population is out of control. Often these animals are killed — part of a debate about how to best handle the problem. We go into a free clinic that's making a difference.
Animals
Managing Boston's Stray Cats: Part 1
Yowling stray cats aren't just a headache: if they're not neutered, males can get into fights and females have litters of kittens who struggle to survive. Some volunteers are trying to change their fates.
Immigration
Boston and the Great Potato Famine
We talk to Michael Higgins, the president of Ireland, during his trip to Boston to commemorate the famine that forever changed the face of the city.
Election 2012
Local Latino Voters Talk About Election 2012
Latinos have become the largest and fastest-growing minority group in the country — and a pivotal one for Obama and likely Republican nominee Mitt Romney in the 2012 presidential race.
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA
MBTA Chief Mulls Your Ideas
Could the state take back the Big Dig debt? Could the MBTA expand service? Richard Davey, secretary of MassDOT, responds to WGBH listeners' ideas.
Health Care
Leading the Fight Against Childhood Cancer
There's been a hopeful development in treatment for soft-tissue sarcoma. A doctor talks about how small foundations play a crucial role in cancer research.
Courts, Crime & Police
In Southie, Police Promise a New Focus on Drugs
Police are promising to crack down on drug dealing as residents talked about the dangers they see in their neighborhood.
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA
MBTA Cuts: The Impact on Communities of Color
Service cuts will reduce families' access to work, health care and education, warned Marvin Venay of the Mass. Black and Latino Legislative Caucus.
Social Issues
Occupy Boston Protests on May Day
Though they didn't go on strike in protest, some workers in Boston's Financial District agreed with the Occupy's message about income inequality.
Transportation & Infrastructure
Who Wins in Boston: Bikes Vs. Cars
With success comes conflict: In the last five years, bicycling in Boston has increased by 50 percent. But some drivers are madder than ever as everyone tries to find room on the road.
Poetry Month
Riding Routes of Poetry
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA
Racial Disparities and the MBTA
The old elevated train from Dudley to downtown was ugly — but fast. Now, with service cuts going into effect, riders are asking why minority neighborhoods get the short end of the transit stick.
Boston
Former Celtic Chris Herren Turns Boston Purple
CALLIE CROSSLEY SHOW
Kirsten Greenidge and "Luck of the Irish"
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA
MBTA Riders Disrupt Budget Debate
Mass. House officers closed down public access to the chambers after a group of seniors and people with disabilities interrupted proceedings to protest MBTA fare hikes.
Health
From Fat Boston to Fit Boston?
Mayor Tom Menino is introducing an ambitious program to get residents to collectively drop 1 million pounds in the next year. But will it fly?
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA
Just Another Rush Hour on the MBTA
In the old days, you couldn't complain about your commute until you (finally) reached your destination. With Twitter, you can. We look at an ordinary morning's sights, sounds and situations on the T.
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA
Riders React to the MBTA Fare Evasion Crackdown
This week, the MBTA launched a new initiative to address fare evasion on the Green Line: In off-peak hours, D Branch passengers will be allowed to board and depart using the front door only. And Twitter said ....
People & Profiles
'No Dame Ever Ran No Marathon'
In 1967 Katherine Switzer helped to change the course of women's athletic history, much to the dismay of men who favored the status quo. Her brave move cleared a path and made her a lifelong advocate for women in sports.
WGBH Local News
Franco Garcia 'A Remarkable Young Man'
Family and friends of a Boston College student who went missing on Feb. 22 mourned after a body found in Chestnut Hill Reservoir was preliminarily identified as that of Franco Garcia.
Communications & Media
The Herald's New Square
Boston's tabloid has moved into new digs in the sleek, up-and-coming Seaport District — shedding its presses and maybe, someday, even newsprint itself.
Technology
Gamers Invade Massachusetts
As 75,000 video game fans descend on the Seaport for the PAX East conference, locals say the Bay State has become a major player in the industry.
Transportation & Infrastructure
T Riders Make Last Push to Influence Board
In the final hours leading up to a key Mass. Bay Transportation Authority board meeting, protesters gathered to decry a fare hike plan.
Courts, Crime & Police
The Aftermath in Mattapan
Four days after an unpopular verdict, Woolson Street was still reverberating with shock, anger — and a sense of business-as-usual.
Courts, Crime & Police
The Mattapan Murder Verdict
Shouting, swearing, rage, tears: The verdict in the Mattapan quadruple-murder trial stunned the victims' families. But one of the defendants could be back in court soon.
Courts, Crime & Police
Stanching Violence in Boston's Inner City
A policeman and a preacher talk about working together to combat an increase in violence in the inner city — a problem brought home this week as jurors struggled to come to a verdict in the Mattapan trial.
Boston
Reviving a 'Downtown for Uptown' in Dudley Square
City councilor Tito Jackson welcomes the renovation of the Ferdinand Building, saying, "Having such a significant and large parcel in the middle of our community offline for 35 or 40 years has had a great negative effect."
Boston
Councilor Ross: 'This Is Disturbing'
With the blackout a memory, now everyone can focus on the cause and questions.
WGBH Local News
Cause Not Yet Known for Back Bay Blackout
NStar spokesman Michael Durand and city councilor Stephen Murphy share what they know about the blackout.
Boston
Blackout Cost Estimated at $2.5 Million
The day after a transformer fire cut off power in Boston's Back Bay, about 4,000 customers still remain without power.
Boston
The Back Bay Fire: Aftermath
On Wednesday morning, NStar said it wouldn't have all power back until after the evening commute.
Transportation & Infrastructure
MBTA Plans to Raise Fares, Cut Service
State transportation secretary Richard Davey said that despite public outcry, major changes were needed to close a $159 million budget gap.
Courts, Crime & Police
The Mattapan Survivor Tells His Story
Marcus Hurd, the sole survivor of a brutal mass shooting in Mattapan, testified in court this week against the men accused of paralyzing him and killing four people, including a 2-year-old boy.
Transportation & Infrastructure
Yet More Fears over MBTA Fares
As crowds gather at MBTA hearings to protest proposed service cuts and fare hikes, a policy group is saying the state should lose the former but go ahead with the latter.
Business
Your Cafe, My Office
In a sign of the times, your neighborhood café has become an office space -- and a new cultural tension is brewing.
Innovation Hub
Bringing More Women To The Top Of The Business World
We talk to a filmmaker, a vice president at Google and a national news anchor about the future of women in business.
Transportation & Infrastructure
Boston Builds to 2020
The Hub seems poised for a new burst of changes, including major developments along the Charles. We asked Tim Love of Northeastern University's School of Architecture to imagine what the Boston of 2020 might look like.
Boston
City Chickens' Goose Is Far from Cooked
Boston is considering changing its codes to foster urban agriculture. It could bring everything from rooftop gardens to beehives to chicken coops to the city’s neighborhoods. But some pioneers have already dug in.
Education
Digging into BU's 'Hockey Culture'
Do hockey players really get special treatment at Boston University? Some students and experts say the reputation is deserved.
Social Issues
The 100th Night with the 99 Percent
Now that Occupy Boston's encampment is gone from downtown and the front page, Boston Phoenix reporter Chris Faraone reflects on the experience in his new book and asks: What's next?
Gambling
Setting the Odds on an Eastie Casino
So far the debate over the proposed casino at Suffolk Downs has been pretty quiet. But with the Foxboro idea going nowhere, that may be about to change.
WGBH Local News
Revisiting School Desegregation in Charlestown
In Kevin White's era, Charlestown made headlines for its opposition to court-ordered school desegregation. Today's high school looks very different. With exclusive archival footage.
Business
Game Conference Sparks Hope in Local Industry
Officials say the video game conference PAX East’s 10-year commitment to Boston could make Massachusetts the center of the rapidly growing, multi-billion-dollar gaming industry.
Boston
Many Residents Of Unsafe Building Still Need Homes
Boston officials met Monday with dozens of Chinatown residents forced to evacuate an unsafe building last week.
Innovation Hub
Crowdsourcing For Science, Medicine And Government
The power of crowdsourcing isn't limited to start-ups. Next, we explore the role it plays in science, medicine and even municipal affairs.
Boston
New Owner Means New Hope At Downtown Crossing
Boston mayor Tom Menino is confident the new owner of the Filene's site will have the project off the ground within a year.
Courts, Crime & Police
'Three Strikes' Inches Toward Compromise
Progress this week on the so-called "three strikes" habitual offenders bill is leading observers to believe some version of the law will pass this year, despite ongoing criticism from communities of color.
WGBH Local News
In The Crowd For James Brown And Kevin White
In 1968, mayor Kevin White spoke at a James Brown concert to promote interracial peace. Attendee (and now WGBH host) Al Davis talks about how that message sounded from the audience.
WGBH Special Reports
Mayor Kevin White: Complete WGBH News Coverage
Former Boston mayor Kevin White died on Jan. 27, 2012 at the age of 82. We look back at his legacy over four terms of change with interviews, analysis and exclusive WGBH archival footage.
Boston
Kevin White And The Toll Of The Tregor Bill
The 1981 political standoff pitted every conceivable stakeholder against one another. There was money, politics, gamesmanship and personalities. In the end, Boston may have won ... but its mayor lost.
Race & Ethnicity
Insights Into Mayor Kevin White And His Era
Watch and hear analysis and memories from people who experienced the changes under White's tenure — whether they were attacked on City Hall Plaza or arguing inside the building.
Race & Ethnicity
Boston's School Desegregation Era
Civil rights leaders, politicians and residents examine mayor White's role in one of the most tumultuous periods in Boston's history.
Biology & Chemistry
Controversy Continues To Rage Over BU Biolab
A mid-February public hearing has been pushed back, but the public isn't keeping quiet on concerns over a center that could be studying deadly bioagents.
Election 2012
Ross Opts Not To Run For Congress
Boston city councilor Mike Ross has dropped his exploratory committee for the 4th Congressional race, saying Congress is "dysfunctional and broken."
WGBH Local News
Inside Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum's New Wing
Following a $114 million renovation, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is inviting the public to visit its new wing. See a peek inside the Gardner’s new space.
Transportation & Infrastructure
The Real Impact of MBTA Cuts: A Mattapan Story
The MBTA says its cost-savings plans would only cut lesser-used lines. But the people who do use them say they'll be in the cold.
Transportation & Infrastructure
The Proposed MBTA Cuts And Hikes: Your Take
The public gets its first chance this week to weigh in on the MBTA's proposed fare hikes and service cuts — and we're hearing from you as well. See what people think....
Social Issues
Anti-Foreclosure Activists Push For New Law
Housing activists rallied on Beacon Hill on Jan. 11 in support of legislation aimed at reducing the growing number of housing foreclosures. CALLIE CROSSLEY: FORECLOSURE IN PHOTOS
Biology & Chemistry
Iris Scans And Spacesuits: Inside The BU Biolab
Mayor Menino and directors of the National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories show off the safety precautions built in to protect workers and neighbors from life-threatening pathogens.
THIS WEEK ON BEACON HILL
Education Abuse, Sentencing And Fishy Fish
State lawmakers are considering bills on abuses at special education agencies, fraudulent fish labeling, three-strikes sentencing and using cellphones while driving.
War & Conflict
Peer Support May Help Homeless Vets In Mass.
Massachusetts is doing a good job of reducing homelessness in veterans compared to the national average, but there's more work to be done. Coleman Nee of the state Dept. of Veterans' Services talks to WGBH News.
Archaeology
Under The Sea... Shipwrecks
An interactive website dredges up long-gone shipwrecks in Boston Harbor, with sailor logs, press coverage and more.
Live Performances
New Venues And A WGBH Broadcast At First Night
New college partnerships mean more stages for the 1 million visitors to Boston's First Night. WGBH is airing the Julian Lage Trio's performance as part of NPR's annual "Toast of the Nation" broadcast.
CNE Journal
Opera's Decision To Close Stuns Arts Community
Classical critic Lloyd Schwartz was just as surprised as everyone else to learn that Opera Boston, which premiered a Pulitzer-winning production last year, plans to close on Jan. 1.
Innovation Hub
New Strategies To Tackle Poverty In Boston
We talk to organizations that are taking homeless people off the streets and investing in families — using the tactic of helping the poor by empowering them.
Performing Arts
My Flight Of Fancy At 'Peter Pan'
An elaborate production of "Peter Pan" has been drawing audiences all season long. I had an invitation I just couldn’t turn down tonight to soar and be a star — that is, to take a flying lesson and have a cameo role as a pirate in the show one night.
WGBH Local News
Occupy Boston: What Went Wrong, What Went Right
Occupy Wall Street is the most-publicized protest movement in some time. Yet a recent poll found 53 percent of Americans neither support nor oppose the movement. WGBH News looked at the organizational issues Occupy has had to struggle with to assess its success to date.
Innovation Hub
Morning Edition Extra: Finding Young, Specific Talent For Boston
Over the past few weeks at Innovation Hub, we have spoken with a number of young entrepreneurs, and the people who help their businesses grow, with space and money. And, no matter how you slice it, there's one fact we can't get away from: Young people today are flocking toward start-ups and entrepreneurship at newly high levels. MORE INNOVATION HUB
Boston
Arrested Occupiers Hailed As Heroes
After the Dec. 10 eviction, about 300 Occupy Boston protesters gathered to debate the movement's next steps and to hail the 46 members who were arrested in the morning's raid.
Boston
Police Evict Occupy Boston
The original eviction deadline of midnight Thursday passed without major incident, but at about 5:00 a.m. Saturday the Boston police moved in to shut down the Dewey Square camp.
Innovation Hub
A Home -- And An Adrenaline Shot -- For Startups
This week, we look at how to create spaces that encourage creativity and inventiveness. What happens when you put hundreds of ambitious entrepreneurs in one building? Do great minds feed off each other? What can they teach us about success — and about potential pitfalls?
WGBH SPECIAL REPORT
Occupy Boston In The Small Hours
WEB EXCLUSIVE: The details of how the eviction turned into an "evict-ory."
WGBH SPECIAL REPORT
Friday Dawns With No Police Raid At Occupy Camp
At Dewey Square, a night that began with tension turned into celebration as mayor Thomas Menino's eviction deadline passed with no police action. WGBH News' Phillip Martin and Toni Waterman were there all night.
WGBH SPECIAL REPORT
Occupy Boston: The Day Of The Deadline
Facing a deadline of midnight to clear out of Dewey Square, protesters said the movement's not over. With audio from the scene.
YOU WEIGH IN
We Share Your Occupy Boston Report Card On-Air
Your latest report card for Occupy Boston: 40 percent give the movement an A, 32 percent say D or F. And everyone has a lot to say. Give the group your OWN grade and read comments from the poll.
WGBH Special Reports
The Occupy Movement Report Card
How effective are the Occupy movement's tactics, messaging and strategies? At the end of term-time, an academic, an Occupier, a Tea Partier and five Democratic candidates gave their grades.
LOCAL SPORTS
Menino Says Football Call Was Unfair. You?
Boston mayor Tom Menino has weighed in on the penalty that cost Cathedral High School its shot at a state football title. He thinks the call was wrong and wants to take the team to lunch to celebrate its season. What's your call?
Election 2012
At Dems' Debate, Warren Grilled On Occupy Boston
The liveliest moment of Democratic Senate debate on Tuesday night came when the five Democrats who want to take on Sen. Scott Brown were asked a yes or no question: Whether Occupy Boston, while fighting for a more permanent encampment in Boston, be allowed to build a winterized tent on public land.
LOCAL HISTORY
A New-Old Look For A Historic Boston Site
At the African Meeting House, it's 1855 all over again after a 10-year, $9.5 million restoration. The building reopens to the public on Friday.
Sports
Football Celebration Leads To Debate Over Rules
Cathedral High quarterback Matthew Owen raised his arm as he was about to cross into the end zone in the 4A State Super Bowl. A referee said he broke the sportsmanship rules. Has the Mass. Interscholastic Athletic Association gone too far?
Weather & National Disasters
Revisiting Weather Disasters In Western New England
The headlines have faded, but western New England continues to rebuild after this summer's devastating tornadoes and tropical storm. Our partners at WGBY went to cities and towns to hear stories of the devastation and its aftermath.
Economy
Low Wages A National Problem
Finding work may not solve an unemployed person's financial problems. Professor Paul Osterman said that even with a job, a large percentage of the population is still living under the poverty line.
Government
State Opens Virtual 'Checkbook' To Public
The state of Massachusetts is putting everything from state contracts to government payroll information online for the public to scrutinize on the new "Open Checkbook" website.
WGBH Local News
Occupiers Fail To Bring New Tent Into Camp
Occupy Boston activists tried to bring in a fire-resistant tent into the Dewey Square encampment on Dec. 5. The effort failed when police blocked their path.
ON THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL
Can Gingrich Win New Hampshire?
With the N.H. primary just around the corner, how much of a threat does Newt Gingrich’s recent surge in the polls pose to Mitt Romney’s presidential hopes? Adam Reilly of WGBH's "Greater Boston" went north to find out.
Performing Arts
'Gateway City' Residents Favor The Arts
A MassINC poll shows overwhelming support for the arts as a catalyst for economic development in cities such as New Bedford, Lowell and Brockton.
THIS WEEK ON BEACON HILL
Senate Candidates Face Off And Casinos Court Mass. Towns
In Mass. politics the week of Dec. 5, Gov. Deval Patrick continues his nine-day trade mission to South America; the Democratic candidates for U.S. Senate meet for a debate and casino operators scramble for licenses.
Environment
Boston 'Rain Garden' Aims To Clean Polluted River
In Dorchester's Peabody Square, what looks like an ordinary patch of plants is in fact a sophisticated "rain garden" designed to clean water and keep pollutants out of the Neponset.
Courts, Crime & Police
Coakley: One Year Is Long Enough
In an interview with WGBH News, Mass. Attorney General Martha Coakley defended her decision to sue five major banks. One of those banks has announced it will stop buying new mortgages written by third parties in Mass.
Commentary
Frank Not 'The Gay Congressman'
One observer said Barney Frank set an example for young LGBT politicians because he was open about his sexual orientation but it didn't define him.
GREATER BOSTON
Childsplay: The Sound Is In The Wood
Members of the "fiddle choir" Childsplay come from many different musical backgrounds, but they all have one thing in common: all of the group’s instruments were made by the same craftsman.
Performing Arts
Jared Bowen's Arts Ahead: Marilyn, Eichmann And A Fiddle Choir
What to do this weekend? There's the movie "My Week With Marilyn," the new play "Captors" and the all-string group Childsplay's annual series of concerts.
Xconomy
Xconomy Report: Treatment For Parkinson's
In this week's top life sciences and innovation news, Michael J. Fox's charity has given a local startup funding to improve Parkinson's treatment.
Boston
Three Occupy Boston Protestors Arrested After Sink Dispute
Police on Thursday night arrested three protesters from the Occupy Boston movement, accusing them of disorderly conduct after dozens of activists surrounded a patrol wagon and refused to let it move.
Technology
Real Questions About Robot Answers
As we become more and more dependent on technology, and companies create ever-better facsimiles of human conversation, it might be worth asking: Is this really what we want?
WGBH Local News
Judge Delays Decision On Occupy Boston
Occupy Boston activists left the courtroom on Thursday chalking up what they believed to be another legal victory, at least in the short run. WGBH NEWS: OCCUPY BOSTON COVERAGE
Red Sox
Baseball Insiders <3 New Sox Manager
COURTS AND THE LAW
State Files Suit Against Mortgage Banks
Mass. Attorney General Martha Coakley filed a lawsuit on Dec. 1 against five national mortgage lenders, in what could be a setback for broader national negotiations.
Religion
‘Knee-Jerk’ Changes Won’t Prevent Abuse In Church, Expert Says
Following Cardinal Bernard Law's decision to retire, a professor thinks the Catholic Church's new policies continue to emphasize protecting itself rather than potential victims of abuse.
WGBH SPECIAL REPORT
WGBH Occupy Boston Coverage
The Occupy movement's appearance in Boston has been one of the area's biggest stories this fall. From the beginning, WGBH News has been on the scene.
Red Sox
N.Y. Fans Sneer At Sox Hire
Bobby Valentine, new Red Sox general manager: Good news for Boston fans? Judging by the chatter near Yankee Stadium... maybe not.
Red Sox
The Valentine Era Dawns For Sox
Will he bring the beleaguered team to victory? "The Emily Rooney Show" talks about new manager Bobby Valentine at noon in advance of tonight's press conference.
Boston
After Confrontation With Phila. Mayor, Occupiers Go To Court
City officials and members of Occupy Boston went to court for a hearing on an injunction that would require the city to give protestors notice before taking any eviction action. The city argued for the right to evict demonstrators immediately if public safety and health issues arose.
Social Issues
Charities Cope With Drop In Donations
In Massachusetts, the prolonged recession is driving need up — and charitable giving down. Instead, people are helping family members. MORE CALLIE CROSSLEY SHOW
Courts, Crime & Police
A Day In The New Life Of Sal DiMasi
What will Sal DiMasi's life be like at new home, the Federal Medical Center in Lexington, Ky.? A former federal prosecutor says that for a prison, it's a pretty nice place.
Social Issues
Creating Peace At $53 A Gun
The founder of Worcester's gun buyback program said that spending about $53 to take a firearm off the streets may save hospitals money.
Energy
Judges Deny Request To Suspend Nuclear Plant Relicensing
Federal regulators will not halt a review of the Pilgrim Nuclear Power Plant's bid to extend its operating license. WGBH News reported on the Pilgrim controversy this November.
Commentary
Dukakis On Gridlock, Influence And His 1988 Campaign
WGBH News takes a critical look at the changing political landscape with former Mass. Gov. and past presidential candidate Michael Dukakis.
Social Issues
Occupy Boston And The 'Big Tent'
The Occupy movement's emphasis on including different views reminds some analysts of old Democratic Party national conventions. Can they all fit under the tent?
Red Sox
Lasorda on Bobby Valentine: 'He's Got It'
Tommy Lasorda has told the AP that the Boston Red Sox have picked Bobby Valentine to be their next manager.
Government
After Frank, Who Will Represent The 4th District?
With longtime Congressman Barney Frank’s political eulogy being read far and wide, attention is turning to the obvious question: Who’s next? And which side of the aisle will they be on?
Commentary
Has Herman Cain's Time Run Out?
Cain is "reassessing" his options after accusations of a 13-year extramarital affair — and a former N.H. Republican party chair has had it up to here.
Social Issues
Solidarity Frays At Occupy Boston Camp
A dramatic sea change appears to be taking place at the Occupy Boston encampment downtown. WGBH News has spent several days visiting the site. For the first time, we are witnessing the depth of problems, including drug use and violence, directly from the protesters.
Government
Barney Frank To WGBH: Redistricting, Coming Out And His Future
In a conversation with WGBH News, Rep. Barney Frank affirmed that redistricting drove his decision to retire. Also: He might have come out a little earlier, but not much.
THIS WEEK ON BEACON HILL
Lawmakers Seek To Lower The Cost Of Health Care
Mass. lawmakers are on their holiday recess this week but working behind the scenes on a bill that would change how the state reimburses doctors and hospitals.
Government
Frank: 'I Do Not Choose To Run'
Rep. Barney Frank explained his decision not to run for a 17th term thus: "My view was that I could do my job best of fighting for the public policies I care about by making this my last term."
Boston
Turkey Tetrazzini In The Tents?
Volunteers brought a full Thanksgiving dinner to the protesters in the Occupy Boston tents in Dewey Square. MORE OCCUPY COVERAGE FROM PHILLIP MARTIN
Business
Bob Slate And The Case Of The Paper Letter
As the holiday shopping season starts, one familiar face is back in Cambridge: Bob Slate Stationer, which closed earlier this year. If its demise represented the death of local retail, paper and Harvard Square, what does the store's revival mean?
INNOVATION
Xconomy Report For Nov. 25, 2011
AOL co-founder Steve Case has invested in a Boston startup that's created a smartphone app popular among runners.
LOCAL POLITICS
Menino Occupies The 'Greater Boston' Set
In his annual Thanksgiving visit to Emily Rooney's set, Boston mayor Tom Menino said he won't be the first to kick Occupiers out of Dewey Square but the movement's time may be running out. Also: a new project at the Filene's site in six months?
War & Conflict
An Inside Look At Spaulding's Treatment Of Libyan War Victims
The fighting in Libya has taken its toll — and nowhere in the US is that impact more evident than at Spaulding Hospital in Salem, Mass. In October, the US State Department facilitated the transfer of wounded freedom fighters here.
Social Issues
Mobile Pantry Addresses Veterans' Growing Need
The unemployment rate for Massachusetts veterans is high. So the state and Greater Boston Food Bank are trying to get food to veterans who need it — including, this week, a Thanksgiving turkey.
Energy
Power Struggle, Part 3: The Emergency Plan
Officials say there is no plan for how Cape Cod could be evacuated in the event of a radiation release — and they estimate only 10,000 people have potassium iodide pills to protect against radiation in a disaster.
Gambling
Casino Bill Is Signed Into Law
Gov. Deval Patrick signed a historic measure Tuesday authorizing three resort casinos and one slot machine parlor in Massachusetts.
Energy
Power Struggle: The Fight Over Pilgrim Nuclear
The owners of the 39-year-old Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station in Plymouth have applied for a 20-year extension. Opponents question its safety, especially after its sister plant experienced explosions and likely meltdowns this year in Fukushima, Japan. In a three-part series, WGBH News reports on the controversy.
LOCAL NEWS
Administration Absent From Occupy Harvard Forum
Attendees at an Occupy Harvard forum dissected the absence of key administrators — and a letter from university president Drew Faust that said Harvard locked its gates after students assaulted a police officer.
WGBH SPECIAL REPORT
Power Struggle, Part 2: Burning Out On Fuel Rods
At Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station, about 3,000 spent fuel rods sit in a pool designed to hold one-third that amount. In Fukushima, some rods stored in similar pools melted down.
Human Trafficking
Human Trafficking Bill Becomes Law In Mass.
Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick signed a bill on Nov. 21 to crack down on human trafficking in the Bay State.
LOCAL NEWS
Cardinal Bernard Law Retires, And Some Cheer
"It's good to see the back of Cardinal Law," said one advocate for victims of clergy sex abuse.
Music
A Scene Celebrates Itself
The awards were the excuse, but the performances were the real scene at the 2011 Boston Music Awards.
Local Politics
Bill Signings Come Fast And Furious On Beacon Hill
There's a spate of bill signings this week on Beacon Hill. One, the casino gambling law, will make history.
WGBH SPECIAL REPORT
Power Struggle, Part 1: Relicensing Pilgrim Nuclear
The owners of the Plymouth Nuclear Power Station are asking for it to be relicensed for another 20 years of service. But the landscape surrounding nuclear power has changed since the disaster in Fukushima, Japan. As regulators consider the request, the debate in the community is heating up.
WHERE WE LIVE
Upton: Boom Times In A Sleepy Town
A little town out in the sticks is experiencing a major increase in popularity due to its open spaces, history and community sentiment.
Performing Arts
Jared Bowen's Arts Ahead For Nov. 17–21 (And Beyond)
Don't be a chocolate turkey: start planning your early-winter nights out now with an extra holiday serving of Arts Ahead.
WHERE WE LIVE
Where We Live: Where Next?
Our "Where We Live" stories take place in a context of economic struggle. The MassINC research director talks about the ways we can face the challenges that may stand between Massachusetts residents and our dreams of a glowing future.
INNOVATION
Xconomy Report For Nov. 18, 2011
Will the new Harvard Innovation Lab, opening today, keep the next Zuck or Gates in Boston? That's the $20 million question.
Government
The 2011 State Legislature Session Endgame
Beacon Hill hummed like a beehive right up to midnight Nov. 16 as lawmakers rushed to get bills to the governor’s desk before a two-month break.
Local Politics
The Romney Hard Drive Purge: OK Or Not?
WGBH News commentators say Romney's hard drive purge was apparently within the letter of the state's public records law — but may have violated its spirit.
WHERE WE LIVE
Attleboro: A Dream Between Two Cities
Its factories and diners have closed, but geography, cost and schools are making this commuter town a popular choice.
Gambling
Last-Minute Change Brings Casino Bill To Governor
After an unusual late change that cut subsidies to the horse racing industry, the casino gambling bill is in Gov. Deval Patrick's hands. He is expected to sign it.
WHERE WE LIVE
Lawrence: A River Runs Through It
Many residents see the cleaned-up Merrimack River as a metaphor for the positive changes they've been creating in this old mill town.
Fitness & Nutrition
A Picture That's Worth 1,000 Calories
Two former Harvard University engineering students have developed a smartphone app they say could make dieting and weight loss as simple as taking a picture.
WHERE WE LIVE
Where You Live: 'Always Christmas' In Georgetown
Despite health challenges, Terry Palardy is living her retirement dream in the North Shore town where she and her husband have made toys and gifts since the '70s.
WHERE WE LIVE
Chelsea: In Search Of Something Better
Whether 100 years ago or now, Chelsea draws immigrants from other countries determined to do better for themselves and their children.
Social Issues
Will Occupy Boston Go The Way of N.Y.?
The eviction of the Occupy Wall Street protesters in New York is raising new questions about how long Boston Mayor Tom Menino will let Occupy Boston stay in Dewey Square downtown.
Local Politics
Transgender Bill Passes House Despite Republican Opposition
Republicans voiced their opposition, but a bill designed to protect the rights of transgender people in the workplace passed the Mass. House Tuesday.
WHERE WE LIVE
Worcester Plans A New Economy
The amenities that have attracted biotech execs to Worcester are no accident: Starting 30 years ago, the city has been working to attract new industries. But will it be enough?
Gambling
Final Gambling Bill Almost There
The consensus bill licenses three resort-style casinos and one slots parlor in Massachusetts.
Where We Live
Norwood: Working Twice As Hard For Half The Money
Norwood business owners don't have a problem with working hard. It can be dispiriting, though, to feel like you're running as fast as you can just to stay in place.
WHERE WE LIVE
Burlington: 'People Are Going Places'
When people hear Burlington, often the first thing that comes to mind is the mall and Route 128.
WHERE WE LIVE
Where You Live: Norwood, Mass.
Our nonprofit, Together Yes, launched this year, is dedicated to sustainability and community building in Norwood. Our grassroots efforts are aimed at getting "small and local." We are becoming a presence in Norwood, and wish to see the town viable and sustainable for all residents and businesses. WHERE WE LIVE: COMPLETE SERIES
THIS WEEK ON BEACON HILL
State Legislators Rush To Finish Before Break
Before Mass. lawmakers head home for a six-week recess, they plan to address pension reform, redistricting, casinos and a crackdown on human trafficking.
WHERE WE LIVE
Where We Live: The State Of The American Dream In Mass.
The week of Nov. 14, WGBH News brings back our series Where We Live. Follow along to read, watch and hear stories of Mass. residents from eight cities and towns as they try to move forward in an uncertain time — and share your own stories as well.
Sports
Paterno, Football And The Catholic Church
It can be hard for Bostonians to understand the loyalty to now-departed Penn. State coach Joe Paterno, in an area where college football is a religion — until they think about the abuse scandal in the Catholic church.
SPORTS
Papelbon To Leave The Sox
He's shipping off from Boston: A source says Red Sox closer Jonathan Papelbon has agreed on a four-year contract with the Philadelphia Phillies.
WHERE WE LIVE
Provincetown Prices Out Young Artists
Emerging artists are attracted by the town's history and fellowships, but housing costs make it hard for them to stay.
Xconomy
Xconomy Report For Nov. 11, 2011
If XL Hybrids' new venture succeeds, anyone could turn their gas-guzzling clunker into a hybrid electric car.
Innovation Hub
Greener Architecture For The 21st Century
This week, architects, builders, and entrepreneurs join us for a discussion about green architecture. How can remaking homes, apartments, and public spaces benefit the planet and increase our interaction with the world around us?
Innovation Hub
Finding The Next Big Thing
We welcome two nationally-known business insiders for a wide-ranging conversation about seeding new companies, technologies on the rise and, of course, the next big thing.
Education
Teachers Protest Controversial Ex-Chancellor
Educator Michelle Rhea drew a packed house of supporters to a Boston talk — and hundreds of local teachers protesting her tactics.
Live Performances
Jared Bowen's Arts Ahead For November 10–13
Who needs "Anonymous"? Boston arts institutions feature love, Shakespeare and Shakespearean love this weekend.
Sports
Interim Coach Named At Penn. State
Tom Bradley, considered the leading in-house candidate to replace Joe Paterno, will coach the Nittany Lions through the end of the season.
Boston
Seniors Rally For Social Security
A crowd of 3000 took center stage at the Wang Theatre to rally against the Congressional supercommittee’s proposed cuts to Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid.
Boston
Election A 'Game-Changer' For Boston Communities Of Color
Incumbent Ayanna Pressley countered all predictions by topping the ticket for the Boston City Council At Large race. It's a sign, some political observers said, that the city's minorities have real power.
Boston
National Grid Under Fire For Irene, Snowstorm Outages
While the state Department of Public Utilities opens an investigation into National Grid's response to the late-October snowstorm that left hundreds of thousands without power, residents and area officials are still expressing their frustation at the utility's response to Hurricane Irene.
Education
Emerson Goes Hollywood But Rooted In Beantown
Does the Hollywood sign outshine the lights of the Cutler Majestic? Emerson leader Lee Pelton said a new LA campus is an expansion — and not the start of a wholesale move west.
Technology
Facebook Founder's 'Fans' Flock To See Him IRL
Harvard students and the media crowded around to hear Mark Zuckerberg explain his plans for Facebook — which do not involve opening a Boston office any time soon. UPDATE: Listen to his speech to students.
Energy
Electric Exec. Defends Response To Storm
After finally restoring power to all its Mass. customers, National Grid defended its response to the snowstorm that hammered the state in late October.
Environment
Has Solar's Time Finally Come?
Economically viable solar energy for private homeowners is heating up in the U.S. as more companies seek to enter what they admit is a niche market.
Government
Looking At The New Congressional Landscape
Media
Host Emily Rooney Talks About Her Father Andy
Andy Rooney died on Nov. 4 at the age of 92. Calling in from her father's desk on Nov. 7, WGBH host Emily Rooney told stories and expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of support.
INNOVATION HUB
Facebook's Zuckerberg Returns To Harvard
Facebook co-founder Mark Zuckerberg is in Boston Monday, making appearances at Harvard and MIT, where he’s trying to recruit new hires. Entrepreneurs in Boston did a double-take when, last week, he said perhaps he should have founded his company here.
Innovation Hub
A Better City, One Street At A Time
We sit down with three experts to talk about how you get people to move from the suburbs back to urban areas, how you can repave streets to make way for pedestrians and bicyclists, how climate change affects cities and how urban spaces will evolve in the 21st-century city.
Transportation & Infrastructure
Will Fewer Trains Mean Better Service?
The MBTA hopes to avoid last winter's massive commuter rail snow delays with a counter-intuitive new policy.
Local Politics
Election Spotlight: Boston City Council
Catch up on the issues facing Boston in Tuesday's heated City Council race. Radio host Callie Crossley talked to candidates for the Dorchester, South Boston/South End/Chinatown and At Large seats.
Performing Arts
Jared Bowen's Arts Ahead For November 3–6
Reimagined classics are the theme of the weekend, with fascinating takes on the "Oz" series, an Ibsen classic and "Peter Pan" competing for your literary and theatrical attention.
INNOVATION HUB
Making Safer, Healthier Urban Neighborhoods
This week, we think about remaking urban living. In the middle of the 20th century, young families began streaming out of cities, tempted by lawns, two-car garages, and spacious homes.
Xconomy
Xconomy Report For Nov. 4, 2011
On Monday, Mark Zuckerberg of Facebook is recruiting at Harvard and MIT to tap into Boston's hot startup market — epitomized by fast-growing upstarts such as HubSpot, Gemvara, Kayak, TripAdvisor and Wayfair.
LOCAL NEWS
Army Suicides And Those Left Behind
THE WORLD: MILITARY SUICIDES A SERIOUS PROBLEMNPR: A MARINE'S DEATH AND THE FAMILY HE LEFT BEHIND
WGBH NEWS: FOR VETERANS DAY, HELP WITH JOBS
GREATER BOSTON: VETERANS AND JOBS
A new report estimates that a U.S. veteran commits suicide every 80 minutes. A local veteran reflects on the challenges of coming home.
LOCAL POLITICS
Happy Hour In Mass.? Not So Fast
The controversial “happy hour” amendment to the Massachusetts casino gambling bill could be off the table.
LOCAL NEWS
For Veterans Day, Help With Jobs
With Veterans Day approaching, Mass. Gov. Deval Patrick has unveiled a slate of proposals to help lower high unemployment among returning service members.
LOCAL NEWS
Boston ‘Occupiers’ Respond To Oakland Strike
Several hundred Occupy Boston activists marched Wednesday in support of the General Strike in Oakland, Calif. They picketed Bank of America and other symbols of what they called “corporate greed.”
LOCAL BUSINESS
Resurrection Unlikely For Boston Icon
With parent company Syms filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, is it finally time to give up hope for the survival of Filene's Basement?
LOCAL NEWS
In Wake Of Storm, Accusations And An Investigation
As Mass. Attorney General Martha Coakley says she will request a formal investigation of the utility companies' response to the historic nor'easter, people debate the best way to prevent future problems.
LOCAL NEWS
One Day Past Start Date, No Funds For Fuel
November 1 usually marks the start of the annual federal winter fuel assistance program for low-income residents. This year, the money didn't go through on schedule.
LOCAL NEWS
Police Say Conditions Were Icy At Lt. Gov. Car Crash Site
The preliminary Mass. State Police report on Lt. Gov. Tim Murray's Wednesday-morning crash backed up Murray's claim that ice caused him to lose control of the car.
LOCAL NEWS
Four Days Later, He's Living In The Dark
Nelson Butten of Lawrence talked about how he was dealing with lengthy power outages. As late as the morning of November 2, his apartment still had no heat.
ARTS
Radio Sound Effects Star Inspired Local Performers
Tom Keith, longtime sound effects master with 'A Prairie Home Companion,' passed away October 30. But for a Boston-area theater company, his influence lives on.
LOCAL POLITICS
Mass. House And Senate Approve New District Maps
Redistricting plans for the state Senate and House of Representatives have been overwhelmingly approved by lawmakers on Beacon Hill.
INNOVATION
Xconomy Report For Oct. 28, 2011
LOCAL NEWS
Many Mass. Residents Still In The Dark
Power will be restored “house by house, block by block,” said Governor Deval Patrick — and some people might be in the dark until Friday.
LOCAL NEWS
Luxury Housing And The Rental Crisis
It's harder than ever to find an affordable place to live in greater Boston — and a research institute chalks it up partly to growing income inequality.
THIS WEEK ON BEACON HILL
Storm Cleanup, Redistricting Continue
Crews will continue their work to help clean up after this weekend’s storm. On Beacon Hill, the redistricting committee is drawing up new political boundaries.
INNOVATION HUB
Rethinking Urban Education
Almost half of students in large cities read below grade level, lagging far behind their suburban counterparts. Why does this problem exist, and how do we tackle it? We visit a school that’s turning itself around — and ask a researcher what that sort of turnaround will take.
INNOVATION
Inventing The Future: Learning From The Epic Fail
Many successful startups — including Rovio, creator of "Angry Birds" — had to experience a lot of failure first.
Greater Boston
RelayRides: Car Sharing On The Rise In Boston
Rental car companies beware! A new peer-to-peer car sharing program allows neighbors to borrow each other's cars instead of owning one. See how RelayRides has shaken up the car-sharing marketplace.
LOCAL NEWS
Protesters Vow To Endure Snow
Facing a possible nor'easter this weekend, Occupy Boston protesters winterized their tents and said they'd stay put.
POLITICS
A Bill To Stall Drunk Drivers
MADD and families of drunk driving victims rallied in support of a bill requiring ignition locks for all convicted drunk drivers, including first-time offenders.
LOCAL ARTS
Jared Bowen's Arts Ahead For October 27–30
Every Thursday, reporter Jared Bowen discusses the weekend's hottest arts events with WGBH Morning Edition Host Bob Seay. In Boston this Halloween, something campy this way comes.
Basic Black
2011-2012 Season Premiere
Friday, October 28, at 7:30 p.m. on WGBH 2
INNOVATION
MIT Signs Historic Deal With New Russian Technology Hub
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology is teaming with a Russian government–sponsored foundation to build a world-class graduate school of technology, known as SkTech, just outside Moscow.
Business
State Lures Bargain Shoppers With Online Auction
Just in time for early holiday shopping, the Massachusetts Abandoned Property Division is auctioning off unclaimed valuables on eBay.
POLITICS
Khazei Drops Out Of Senate Race; Olver To Retire
A Senate candidate and a Congressman have made decisions that could affect the face of Massachusetts in the U.S. Congress.
Boston
Terror Suspect's Lawyers Emphasize Free Speech
Lawyers for Tarek Mehanna, the Sudbury man accused of plotting to help al-Qaida, want to remind the jury of Mehanna's First Amendment rights. Opening statements start Thursday.
Greater Boston
The ICA Celebrates 75 Years Of 'Renegade' Art
It was 75 years ago this month that the Boston Museum of Modern Art opened in Boston. It billed itself as the "renegade offspring" of the Museum Of Modern Art. We know it better today as the Institute of Contemporary Art. I spent some time there last week looking at its history and its brand new show,"Dance/Draw."
PUBLIC HEALTH
Legislature Considers Discount Coupons For Drugs
A Massachusetts Legislature committee held a public hearing Tuesday on a controversial bill that would allow drug manufacturers to offer discounts on brand-name drugs.
CAMPAIGN CHECK-IN
Council Candidates Debate Walmart And 'Tommy's Team'
In a roundtable with WGBH's Callie Crossley, four of the seven Boston City Council at large candidates argued for independent voices and — maybe — a Walmart in Dudley Square.
LOCAL SPORTS
No 'I' In Team — But Plenty In Epstein's Farewell
Does grammar tell the tale of former Red Sox general manager Theo Epstein’s self-interest? WGBH commentator Bob Lobel says yes as Ben Cherington takes over with the Sox.
WGBH Local News
Time Running Out For Heat Assistance Program
Baby, it's getting cold outside — and heating help for low-income families hangs in the balance as the federal government wrestles with budget cuts.
LOCAL POLITICS
Second 'Occupy' Group Presses For Police Accountability
The new "Occupy the Hood Boston" wants stronger civilian oversight of Boston law enforcement and better relations with communities of color.
POLITICS
Jill Stein Pulls Obama From The Left
A former Massachusetts gubernatorial candidate is seeking the Green Party's nomination for president, vowing to challenge President Barack Obama from the left on jobs, foreclosures and health care.
BOB SEAY DEBRIEFS
Afghanistan, 10 Years In
In the first of a series of conversations with our colleagues at "The World," Bob Seay discusses the state of Afghanistan with London correspondent Laura Lynch.
BOSTON
A Report From Boston's 'Occupation'
Over 100 people are continuing to camp out in Dewey Square. WGBH's Phillip Martin reports from the scene. DEMONSTRATORS BRING WALL STREET PROTESTS NORTH
THIS WEEK ON BEACON HILL
Jill Stein Enters Presidential Race; Advocates Push For DUI Law
In Massachusetts politics this week, another Bay State resident enters the race for president, the casino gambling conference committee is expected to come together and anti-drunk driving advocates call for tougher DUI laws.
Boston
When Protesters Stay, Who Pays?
As Occupy Boston enters its fourth week in Dewey Square, police overtime expenses are adding up. Protesters, however, say opponents are simply trying to discredit the cause. Callie Crossley discusses the movement at 1:00 p.m.
Education
Too Many Mass. Students Unprepared For College, Officials Say
They say the problems is that too many students pass the MCAS test, graduate from high school but still can’t do basic college level reading, writing and math.
LOCAL POLITICS
State Investigates Controversial Lottery Game
State Treasurer Steve Grossman called for an investigation into a state lottery game called Cash WinFall after a handful of gamblers exploited a flaw and raked in millions.
Greater Boston
Weightlifting Program Helps At-Risk Kids
Innercity Weightlifting is a program designed to get Boston's most at-risk kids off the streets and into the gym. It launched two years ago with four students. Today, its membership tops 200. The program's founder says weightlifting is just the hook to get kids through the door. Once inside, it's all about mentoring.
LOCAL NEWS
Logan Officials Say Runway Is Safe
Massport officials responded to a recent FAA data analysis calling Logan the ninth most dangerous airport in the U.S.
GAMBLING
Casino Is Ready To Break Ground On Mass. Resort
Mohegan Sun is ready to break ground on a new casino in Palmer, Mass., an executive told WGBH on October 19. The tribe bought the land in 2007.
Greater Boston
Consignment Shopping To Stay Stylish In A Down Economy
Most shoppers, even label lovers, agree that clothing doesn't give you a great return on your investment, only your sense of style. To stay stylish in this rugged economy, people are turning more to second hand clothing.
WGBH SPECIAL REPORT
Part 3: DJ Henry And The Police Response
After DJ Henry's death, some police experts say the force needs to train officers to de-escalate conflicts and increase sensitivity to racial stereotypes.
CAMPAIGN CHECK-IN
Council Candidates Weigh In On Activism And Education
CALLIE CROSSLEY SHOW: BOSTON COUNCIL DISTRICT 3, PART 1CALLIE CROSSLEY SHOW: BOSTON COUNCIL DISTRICT 3, PART 2
Schools and community activism topped the list for three Boston City Council At-Large candidates in a radio roundtable at WGBH.
POLITICS
Draft Redistricting Amplifies Minority Voice
State lawmakers unveiled a new political map October 18 that would increase the number of minority-majority districts in both the House and Senate.
WGBH SPECIAL REPORT
Part 2: DJ Henry, Eurie Stamps And Race
CALLIE CROSSLEY SHOW: DJ HENRY, RACE AND POLICEDJ HENRY AND THE TRAINING OF POLICE: COMPLETE SERIES
A grand jury did not indict Officer Aaron Hess in the shooting death of Danroy "DJ" Henry. But some continued to question the role of race — especially after a retired man was killed by Framingham police in January 2011.
Boston
More Grocery, Convenience Stores May Soon Sell Alcohol In Mass.
Massachusetts consumers may soon see more grocery and convenience stores selling beer and wine as the result of a compromise bill being worked out in the state Legislature.
BOSTON
Family Honors DJ Henry On Anniversary Of Death
Friends and family remember Danroy "DJ" Henry, who was fatally shot by a police officer one year ago tonight. WGBH News has extended coverage.
POLITICS
This Week At The State House
In Massachusetts state politics this week, legislators are expected to release new legislative boundaries, and the casino gambling bill will likely go to conference committee.
BUSINESS
Wegmans Enters Mass. Market With A Splash
There’s a new entry in the hyper-competitive world of food shopping in Massachusetts. The N.Y.-based chain Wegmans inspires fierce loyalty among its customers and employees — and now it's opened the largest supermarket in Massachusetts. Can it replicate its success here?
BOSTON
Paul Revere's Bell Is Born Again In Boston
Patriots young and old gathered in front of the Old South Meeting House in Downtown Boston on Sunday to pay tribute to an old bronze bell. But it isn't just any old bronze bell. This bell was made by Paul Revere and his foundry back in 1801.
WGBH SERIES
Part 1: A Crowd, A Car And A Gun
DJ HENRY AND THE TRAINING OF POLICE: COMPLETE SERIESEMILY ROONEY SHOW: HENRY'S PARENTS STILL SEARCH FOR ANSWERS
October 17 marked the one-year anniversary of the shooting death of Danroy “DJ” Henry, the Pace University student from Easton Massachusetts. Since the shooting, Henry’s death has continued to stir controversy on a number of levels that go well beyond this single incident.
GREATER BOSTON
Life In The Tents At Occupy Boston
As Occupy Providence starts its own park protest, the activists of Occupy Boston learn what it takes to live in their city-within-a-city—come rain or shine.
INNOVATION
MIT Helps Build the Silicon Valley of Russia
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology is about to sign a historic agreement to help establish a major university in Russia—that will anchor a planned $6.6 billion town of technology, innovation and business success. SKOLKOVO INSTITUTE: A TIMELINE
MIT, FOUNDATION ANNOUNCE COLLABORATION
Local Politics
Senate Passes Casino Gambling Bill
Massachusetts is one step closer to having casinos. The Massachusetts Senate has approved its version of the casino gambling bill by a vote of 24 to 14.
POLITICS
Mass. Senate Approves Gambling Bill
State senators have approved a bill that would allow the state to license up to three resort-style casinos and one slots parlor in Massachusetts. HAPPY HOUR COULD RETURN TO MASS.
EMILY ROONEY SHOW
Occupy Boston Grapples With Growing Movement
Rain, no bathroom facilities and $10,000 in donations: Occupy Boston protesters are digging in for the long haul.
Boston
Boston Bans Smoking In Public Housing
The Boston Housing Authority is preparing to implement a smoke-free policy on all of its properties. As of September 2012, public housing residents will no longer be allowed to smoke in their units or in the common areas.
The Emily Rooney Show
FBI, Globe, Herald Trade Barbs In Tipster Spat
The FBI has entered the fray in a debate over the Boston Globe's decision to name the tipster whose information led to the arrest of fugitive mob boss James "Whitey" Bulger.
Boston
Happy Hour Could Return To Mass.
For the first time in most than two decades, bars and restaurants may be able to offer discounted drinks in Massachusetts, under a measure passed by the state Senate on Tuesday.
Boston
Dozens Arrested In Occupy Boston Protests
Boston police have arrested more than 50 protesters from the Occupy Boston movement after they ignored warnings to move from a site near their official encampment.
INNOVATION HUB
Making Green Energy The Norm
This week, we tackle two big questions: What are the newest green-energy technologies available, and how can the United States be encouraged to embrace them? Then, we turn to a conversation on tackling obesity. Find both conversations after the jump.
Innovation Hub
Innovation Hub: Introducing Ourselves!
Welcome to Innovation Hub! Each week on this show, we’ll hear from the most inventive, creative minds around and ask: What are they thinking? Building? Creating?
Greater Boston
'Occupy Boston' Protestors Gather In The Hub
Occupy Boston is gathering forces in Boston's Financial District to protest what many demonstrators have described as corporate greed and growing economic disparity in the United States.
Boston
'Occupy Boston' Demonstrators Bring Wall Street Protests North
Calling themselves Occupy Boston, a group of demonstrators inspired by the Occupy Wall Street protests in New York City took to the streets of Boston this weekend and on Monday continued to camp out at Boston's Dewey Square.
Boston
Mass. Man Charged In Terror Plot
A 26-year-old Ashland man is under arrest and charged with plotting to blow up the Pentagon and U.S. Capitol with a remote-controlled aircraft filled with C-4 plastic explosives.
Boston
Mass. Man Charged In Terror Plot
A 26-year-old Ashland man is under arrest and charged with plotting to blow up the Pentagon and U.S. Capitol with a remote-controlled aircraft filled with C-4 plastic explosives.
THE CALLIE CROSSLEY SHOW
New England Nuclear Plants Face Renewed Scrutiny
Nuclear plants in New England have come under increased scrutiny since the Fukushima-Daiichi disaster in Japan earlier this year. The scrutiny comes as the Pilgrim plant in Plymouth and the Vermont Yankee plant in Vernon, Vermont look to renew their operating licenses for another 20 years.
Local Politics
Casino Debate Continues; Alimony Reform Signed
This week in Massachusetts Politics, the casino gambling debate moves to the Senate, the state enacts alimony reform, and two former Bay State officials are due in court on political corruption charges.
Greater Boston
Boston Court Ruling Affirms Citizens' Right To Record Officials
Simon Glik, a lawyer, was walking through the Boston Common on the night of October 1, 2007, when he stumbled upon what he described as an unbelievable situation: Three Boston police officers forcefully wrangling, punching and trying to hold down a young man.
Boston
Harvard Reveals Plans For Allston Development
In an open letter to Allston residents on Wednesday, leaders at Harvard University revealed the institution's vision for its vast Allston holdings whose development, stalled in 2009 following the economic downturn.
Local Politics
After Credit Bump, Mass Gets Low Bond Interest Rate
After securing what officials say is the highest credit rating in the state’s history, Massachusetts has sold $500 million in bonds at an interest rate of slightly below 3 percent.
Greater Boston
Mass. May Legalize Ticket Scalping
In theory at least, ticket scalping is illegal here in Massachusetts. But in reality it's widely accepted. Now a proposed law would give scalpers free rein.
Boston
Patrick Touts Mass. Gay Marriage Law
Gov. Deval Patrick on Wednesday offered a spirited defense of Massachusetts’ Same Sex marriage law. The governor was addressing a meeting of the American Constitution Society for Law and Policy or ACS, a progressive legal organization that he helped form in 2001.
THE CALLIE CROSSLEY SHOW
As Pols Draw Up New Districts, Watchdogs Debate
As election season heats up in Massachusetts, debate continues on how to redraw voting districts. Last year, the state learned it would lose a Congressional seat as the bulk of the nation's populated shifts West.
Business
Patrick Touts Massachusetts At Biotech Conference
Thousands of biotech and pharmaceutical dealmakers from around the work gathered in Boston this week for a Bio-Pharm America 2011 conference in Boston — and Gov. Deval Patrick is stressing the importance of their work to the Massachusetts economy.
This Week On Beacon Hill
MCAS Scores Out, Casino Bill Revisions In
This week in Massachusetts politics, the state Department of Education releases standardized test scores, the Legislature's Joint Judiciary Committee hears testimony on sentencing guidelines, and lawmakers propose changes to the casino bill that's already passed the House.
Greater Boston
Editor Martin Baron Marks A Decade At The Boston Globe
Over the summer The Boston Globe editor Marty Baron passed his ten-year mark at the helm of the newspaper. Baron recently talked to WGBH's Emily Rooney about what he has accomplished and how The Globe has changed over the decade.
Local Politics
Businessman, Romney Cabinet Member Disputes Damning Study
New figures from conservative think tank, the Beacon Hill Institute, find Massachusetts’ 2006 landmark health-care plan, often called “Romneycare,” cost the Bay State 18,000 jobs. But in an interview with WGBH’s Emily Rooney Show, Romney’s former Secretary of Economic Affairs, Robert Pozen, says he’s skeptical about the results. HEAR THE FULL INTERVIEW
Local Politics
Mass. House Passes Gambling Bill
Lawmakers voted 123-32 Wednesday night to endorse the bill that would authorize three resort-style casinos and one slots parlor. They rejected dozens of proposed amendments, including one that would require an independent cost-analysis of expanded gaming.
The Emily Rooney Show
Davey: MBTA Fare Increase ‘on the Table’
A fare hike for the cash-strapped MBTA is “definitely on the table,” according to the state’s newly anointed transportation czar.
Local Politics
Elizabeth Warren Enters 2012 Senate Race
Consumer advocate and Democrat Elizabeth Warren will enter the Massachusetts Senate primary Wednesday for a shot at challenging incumbent Republican Scott Brown for his seat.
WGBH Local News
See Something, Say Something: Safe, Or Unfair?
In the days after the ten-year anniversary of Sept. 11, millions are traveling as usual and security issues remain as they have since 2001. That means individuals are still being singled out for special scrutiny, which continues to raise questions about fairness and safety.
WGBH Local News
See Something, Say Something: Safe, Or Unfair?
In the days after the ten-year anniversary of Sept. 11, millions are traveling as usual and security issues remain as they have since 2001. That means individuals are still being singled out for special scrutiny, which continues to raise questions about fairness and safety.
89.7 WGBH
State Treasurer Considers Legalizing Online Poker
Momentum may be growing behind efforts to legalize online poker in Massachusetts. State Treasurer Steve Grossman’s Office is considering plans to legalize online poker for state residents.
Boston
At Logan, Silence And Normalcy On Sept. 11
The scene at Logan Airport Sunday was anything but sedate. On the anniversary of September 11th, thousands of passengers passed through the nation’s eighth-busiest airport, but memories of ten years to the day bore heavily on the minds of many travelers.
89.7 WGBH
Sept. 11, From The Rooftops
Millions of Americans vividly recall where they were ten years ago on September. Some that day were standing on rooftops, terraces, staring from the windows of tall buildings and looking out from balconies.
Boston
An Entrepreneur, A Soldier, A Refugee: Millennials And Sept. 11
It may be too early to say how Sept. 11 affected the millennial generation, who came of age in its aftermath. But it did bring change, one person at a time. Here are three stories of youths whose lives were altered because of that day.
WGBH Special Reports
Sept. 11: A Day Of Reflection, A Decade Of Stories
WGBH News joined our community and world to mark the somber anniversary of Sept. 11, 2001. On the last day of 2011, we look back at that milestone.
A DECADE OF STORIES
Without Answers, A Brand-New Governor Tried To Lead
On Sept. 11, Acting Gov. Jane Swift's first task was to send voters to the polls for a special election. Her next: To navigate crisis in a state she had just come to lead.
A DECADE OF STORIES
After Sept. 11, Waltham Musician Plays On
On Sept. 11, Amy Fairchild was getting on the subway, off to work with a producer on an album she hoped would help her realize her dream of becoming a professional musician. And then the world came to a standstill.
A DECADE OF STORIES
'The Biggest Danger Is Overreacting'
On Sept. 11, Prof. Joe Nye was the dean of the Kennedy School. Nye reflects on how he led his students that day — and the implications of the attack for the country.
A DECADE OF STORIES
Sept. 11 Narrative Emerges In The Arts
At first, it wasn't clear how the art world could or should respond to the Sept. 11 attacks. Today works of visual art, theater and dance explore the attacks and its aftermath — and audience members are engaging with it.
Boston
DiMasi Sentenced To Eight Years In Prison
Former Massachusetts House Speaker Salvatore DiMasi has been sentenced to serve eight years in prison.
89.7 WGBH
'I Want Him To Feel The World Is Still A Good Place'
Sunanda Narayanan is a business manager at WGBH. Her son was born on Sept. 10, 2001. She reflects on raising a child in the aftermath of the attacks.
89.7 WGBH
Plane Spotters Lend Extra Eyes To The Skies
Like so many who sit along railroad tracks to watch trains go by, plane spotters look to the air. With advances in digital photography, the ranks of aviation enthusiasts have grown, and many are unofficial watchdogs of the sky. But since Sept. 11, the plane spotters themselves are now being more carefully watched.
Boston
Boston Readies For Sept. 11 'Day Of Service'
Residents from across Massachusetts are responding in large numbers to a national call for service on September 11. This year's date may result in the largest outpouring of volunteerism the state has ever seen.
Boston
After Controversy, Boston Muslims Find Community, Inclusion
At a barbecue at Roxbury's Islamic Cultural Center, WGBH's Adam Reilly speaks with Boston-area Muslims about how they feel they're perceived here, 10 years after Sept. 11.
A DECADE OF STORIES
'It's Still As Important As It Was Yesterday'
Mike Leone has been the port director for the Massachusetts Port Authority for 13 years. He says Sept. 11, 2001 fundamentally changed his job.
89.7 WGBH
9/11 Brought 'Complete' Change To Cape Air
Dan Wolf is a state Senator and the owner of Cape Air, the small airline that flies in and out of Cape Cod to several cities around the United States. He spoke with WGBH's Bob Seay about the dramatic, immediate effect the attacks had on his business.
The Emily Rooney Show
On 9/11 Anniversary, Sen. Brown 'Yearns' For Unity
Senator Scott Brown says he wishes Washington lawmakers would embrace the same kind of bipartisan unity that followed the 9/11 terror attacks.
Local Politics
Poll: Voters Draw Line Between Public And Private Civil Liberties
Ten years after the 9/11 attacks, a new poll suggests that the line between pursuing terrorism and preserving civil liberties is not a straight one. Sen. Scott Brown says lawmakers are trying to work out the balance between the two.
A DECADE OF STORIES
'Somebody Started Singing God Bless America'
All this week, we're featuring reflections of local people on Sept. 11. Ilene Fischer is a playwright, comedian and television director who lives in Arlington. On Sept. 11, she was working in Los Angeles. She remembers watching the events unfold from a sports network on the other side of the country.
A DECADE OF STORIES
After The Call, Cape Cod Fighter Pilots Patrolled The Skies
Colonel Timothy Duffy was a first-responder on Sept. 11, arriving at the Twin Towers in one of Otis's F-15 Eagles, along with his wingman, Major Daniel Nash. People often ask Duffy if he'd arrived in New York sooner, would he have shot down a hijacked airliner?
A DECADE OF STORIES
'We Had To Find Ways To Harden The Airport'
On Sept. 11, Ed Freni was Director of Aviation Operations for Logan Airport. Today, he is Director of Aviation for three airports owned by Massport: Logan, Hanscom Airfield and Worcester Regional Airport. He reflects on that day.
Boston
Boston Temp. Workers Protest Discrimination, Unsafe Conditions
During rallies across the city on Friday, fish-cutters, janitors and housekeepers decried conditions they said were unsafe.
Classical Concerts
Boston Baroque's Les Indes Galantes
Boston
Sept. 11: A Day Of Reflection, A Decade Of Stories
WGBH joins our community and the world marking the somber anniversary of Sept. 11, 2001. It's a day to remember both the attacks and the changes they brought to the country; the pain of that day and the healing that continues to this day.
89.7 WGBH
Multi-Agency Terrorism Task Force Established At Logan
Boston's Logan Airport will be home to the nation's first airport-based office dedicated to fighting terrorism, 10 years after two planes left the airport with the al-Qaeda hijakers who would steer the planes into the towers of the World Trade Center.
Local Politics
Judge: No New Trial For Speaker DiMasi
A federal judge has denied a bid by former Massachusetts House Speaker Salvatore DiMasi for a new trial. He'll be sentenced for his conviction on corruption charges on Sept. 8.
Hurricane Irene
Over 200 K Remain Without Power After Irene
Massachusetts officials and residents are still working to confront and assess the damage left behind by this weekend's Tropical Storm Irene. Over 250,000 remained without power on Tuesday morning.
Hurricane Irene
After Irene, 'Historic' Flooding In Vermont
In Vermont and upstate New York, normally placid streams turned into raging torrents tumbling with tree limbs, cars and parts of bridges. Hundreds of Vermonters were told to leave their homes after Irene dumped several inches of rain on the landlocked state. Gov. Peter Shumlin called it the worst flooding in a century, and the state was declared a federal disaster area.
Boston
After Irene, One Dead, 400K Without Power
More than 400,000 Massachusetts households were without power Monday morning as 15 state-dispatched teams around the state worked to assess the damage of Tropical Storm Irene's hit on Massachusetts on Sunday.
This Week On Beacon Hill
Mid-Year Surplus May Go To Disaster Relief
Massachusetts politics this week will likely be dominated by the aftermath of Tropical Storm Irene. Meanwhile, legislators will consider a midyear spending plan.
Boston
Boston Archdiocese Releases List Of 159 Accused Priests
Cardinal Sean O'Malley on Thursday released a long-awaited list of priests accused of child sex abuse in Boston in the last 60 years, but he opted not to include certain priests, including ones who died without being publicly charged.
Business
Gambling Bill Looks Good For Mashpee Wampanoags
The casino gambling bill unveiled by Massachusetts legislative leaders earlier this week could give a boost to the Mashpee Wampanoag Native American tribe, but there are caveats.
Boston
Prosecution Asks For 12-Year Prison Term For DiMasi
Government prosecutors say former House Speaker Sal DiMasi should face more than twelve years in prison after his conviction on corruption charges earlier this year. EARLIER: EX-SPEAKER DIMASI CONVICTED OF CORRUPTION
WEATHER
Now A Tropical Storm, Irene Bears Down On Mass.
Rain and winds bore down on Massachusetts on Sunday morning as Irene, now downgraded to a tropical storm, barreled its way up the East Coast.
Economy
Innovation Economy Growth Leaves Parts Of State Behind
The local innovation economy is credited with driving up Greater Boston’s median income by 54 percent over the past three decades. But a new study by UMass economists and the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston found that, in some western parts of the state, incomes have fallen 24 percent over the same period.
Local Politics
State Leaders Unveil Casino Bill Compromise
After months of closed door negotiations with Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick, legislative leaders released a new casino gambling bill Tuesday. Many lawmakers predict this time, it will pass, unlike when last summer legislators failed to compromise on a bill. WGBH SPECIAL REPORT: THE LAST RESORT
Boston
Mass. May Apply To Waive NCLB Requirements
Massachusetts may ask the federal government for a waiver of some of the requirements of the No Child Left Behind education law. Without the waiver, officials say a large number of Bay State schools would face sanctions.
Economy
July Encouraging For Mass. Home Sales
Sales of single-family home in Massachusetts jumped in July for the first time in six months when compared to the year-ago period, an encouraging sign for the state's real estate market.
Boston
Springfield Approves Tough Anti-Foreclosure Laws
The Springfield City Council has passed what advocates are calling the toughest municipal anti-foreclosure legislation in the country.
Boston
New App Lets You Complain About The T... Productively
A new iPhone app may help people complain more productively. The Talk To The T app, now available for free in the iTunes store, allows users to send the T a message detailing a problem they encountered on the system and attach an optional photo.
This Week On Beacon Hill
DiMasi Asks For Light Sentence; Special House Primary
This week in Massachusetts politics, convicted former House Speaker Sal Dimasi will make the case for a lighter jail sentence, and voters in Southeastern Massachusetts elect primary candidates in the race to succeed former New Bedford state Representative Stephen Canessa.
Economy
Mass.'s Unchanged Unemployment Rate Could Belie August Market Turmoil
Despite anxiety about the national economy during the debt-ceiling talks last month, employers in Massachusetts added jobs, according to state labor data released Thursday.
Local Politics
Elizabeth Warren Forms Exploratory Committee
Consumer advocate Elizabeth Warren is moving closer to a potential run for U.S. Senate in Massachusetts. The Democrat, who helped form the nascent Consumer Financial Protection Bureau before being passed over to run it amongst fierce Republican opposition, on Thursday launched a website and exploratory committee.
Boston
Bulger Companion Won't Cooperate With Authorities
The longtime girlfriend of reputed Boston crime boss James "Whitey" Bulger has pleaded not guilty to helping him elude authorities during his 16 years as a fugitive.
PRI'S THE WORLD
Worcester World Cup Celebrates City's Immigrants
Starting Friday, Worcester will host an event that’s a hallmark of many American cities with burgeoning immigrant populations: a World Cup soccer tournament.
Environment
Nature In Balance: The National Seashore Looks Forward
As it celebrates its 50th anniversary, the Cape Cod National Seashore bears the legacy of the agreements that founded it -- which supporters say will help it navigate its future.
Boston
Warren Takes Steps Toward Possible Senate Bid
Consumer advocate Elizabeth Warren is taking the first steps toward launching a possible challenge against Republican Scott Brown, the U.S. senator from Massachusetts and a top Democratic target in 2012.
THIS WEEK IN LOCAL ARTS
Surrealism And 'American Vision' At The Peabody Essex
The dog days of summer are upon us, and what better way to duck out of the heat than by taking in some art? Right now, the Peabody Essex museum in Salem hosts two must-see shows: One exploring the artistic and personal relationship between Surrealist photographer Man Ray and his lover, and the other a rare look at the Hudson River School.
GREATER BOSTON VIDEO
Frank: To Cut Deficit, Cut Military Spending
Technology
Mass. Companies Get $27 M To Develop Clean Cars
Massachusetts companies will receive about $27 million dollars from the federal government to help improve fuel efficiency technologies for next generation cars.
VIDEO
Henry Family Grateful For Jay-Z, Kanye Tribute
The family of Danroy "DJ" Henry Jr., the young Easton native shot by a New York police office last fall, says they're glad rappers Kanye West and Jay-Z have commemorated their son with a song on their new album.
Economy
So We've Been Downgraded. What Does That Mean?
Standard and Poor’s downgrading of the U.S. credit rating from AAA to AA+ has a lot of people in the Boston area wondering how it might affect them. But many others seem confused about the ratings process altogether.
Boston
Boston Somalis Help Famine At Home, Hoping For More Support
Some Somalis in Boston say they have been trying for a long time to turn public attention to the famine in their homeland, to no avail. Some have concluded that they'll simply have to go it alone, although donations and attention from non-governmental organizations are increasing.
Economy
Gauntlets Thrown, Mass. Plans To Keep Young Talent
Recently-released census data shows 35 percent of Boston's population is made up of 20 to 34 year olds. The city now faces some competitive heat from its neighbors regarding its young residents.
89.7 WGBH
Mass. Homeowners May Get Loan Modifications In Settlement
Thousands of homeowners in Massachusetts who got mortgages through Option One, a subsidiary of H&R Block, may benefit from a multi-million dollar settlement negotiated by Attorney General Martha Coakley.
Economy
Brown: Debt, Not Partisanship, Brought U.S. Credit Down
Republican United States Senator Scott Brown is downplaying the role partisan fights played in weakening U.S. creditworthiness.
Boston
Boston's African Meeting House Gets A Facelift
After receiving $4 Million dollars in Federal stimulus money last August the African Meeting House will reopen this December by throwing itself a 205th Birthday Party.
This Week On Beacon Hill
Treasurer Holds Micro-Beer Summits; Brown Back In Mass.
This week on Beacon Hill, Massachusetts Treasurer Steve Grossman meets with microbrewers who are upset over potential regulations and U.S. Senator Scott Brown is back in the Bay State.
CAPE COD
Nature In Balance: Creating The National Seashore
This week marks the 50th anniversary of the Cape Cod National Seashore. But its formation was not without controversy.
GREATER BOSTON
How To BBQ, Four-Seasons Style
We listened in on a five-star chef's barbeque class. Read his tips and watch the video.
World News
Area Somalis Disheartened By Low U.S. Interest In Famine
The five to ten thousand Somalis living in Boston are trying to respond from afar to news of a devastating famine in their homeland.
VIDEO
New Rules Brew Trouble For Mass. Microbrewers
A new rule forcing local beer makers to grow their own hops and grains could be trouble for Massachusetts breweries.
Transportation & Infrastructure
MBTA GM Davey To Be New Transportation Secretary
Gov. Deval Patrick has named MBTA General Manager Richard Davey to be the state's new Secretary of Transportation.
Local Politics
Advocates Put Forth 31 Possible Ballot Questions
Advocates in Massachusetts are pushing for 31 different questions for the 2012 ballot, ranging from medical marijuana to new rules governing the dismissal of teachers.
Religion
Report Finds Muslims Loyal To U.S., Optimistic
Local Muslims are responding to the findings of a new Gallup poll comparing the attitudes of Muslim Americans to Americans of other faiths. The report found that ten years after the 9/11 terror attacks, the vast majority of Muslim Americans are loyal to the United States and are more optimistic than other major faith group about their future.
Museum of Fine Arts
MFA Opens New, Permanent Jewelry Gallery
The Museum of Fine Arts has just done what no other fine arts museum in the country has, opening a new permanent gallery dedicated to the display of jewelry with the show “Jewels, Gems, and Treasures: Ancient to Modern.”
89.7 WGBH
How Can We Fix Mass. Transit System?
Yesterday Richard Dimino President and CEO of A Better City outlined the scope of the fiscal problems facing the MBTA and other Massachusetts transit infrastructure. Today he talks about his ideas on how to fix them.
Boston
Union Oyster House Turns 185
After nearly two centuries of existence, Union Oyster House has its own unique body of lore: From JFK’s favorite booth to a plaque honoring Boston’s first female waitress. And as the restaurant prepares to celebrates its 185th anniversary Wednesday, business is still brisk.
Boston
Top Big Dig Engineer Fired After Light Collapses
One of the top highway engineers at the Massachusetts Department of Transportation was fired on Tuesday following remarks he made about safety concerns.
Boston
Mass. Tea Party Members Pleased With Debt Deal
As the Senate prepares to vote on= a final debt deal, the head of a local Tea Party group is calling this a moment of triumph.
Boston
Conference Cues Reflection On Boston Race Relations
The National Urban League's visit to Boston last week for their annual conference afforded an opportunity for both outsiders and Bostonians to reflect on race relations in a city African-Americans were once told to avoid. The consensus? Things have changed for the better.
Boston
Mass. Transit System 'On Life Support'
Massachusetts transportation system is majorly in debt, and may need to resort to fare hikes and service cuts to get things under control. WGBH's Bob Seay spoke with an area transportation expert to get at the roots and extent of the problem.
Health
Boston Doctors Fit Custom Knee Replacements
Doctors at Brigham and Women's hospital are practicing a new procedure that allows them to give patients with knee problems customized knee replacements. The new fittings were devised by a Burlington, Mass.-based company.
This Week On Beacon Hill
Sales-Tax Holiday, Probation Reform Await Patrick's Signature
Lawmakers away on their August recess, but there are a number of bills on Governor Deval Patrick’s desk awaiting his signature, including a sales-tax holiday measure and legislation aimed at overhauling the state probation department.
89.7 WGBH
Roxbury Bank Under Fire For Ignoring Surrounding Community
Minority-owned banks have traditionally played important roles in propping up the black middle class, lending when others would not. But one such institution in Roxbury has come under fire for its alleged hands-off approach to the community surrounding it.
Boston
And They're Off! Boston Bike Share Launches
Boston's landmark bike-sharing program, Hubway, is live. On Friday, it's first full day of operation, over 600 bikes were ready in kiosks around Boston, waiting to be borrowed, ridden and left at another kiosk in the city.
THE EMILY ROONEY SHOW: MUSIC
Steve Mayone Plays 'Everyone's Insane'
Steve Mayone has been producing gorgeous songs for more than a decade. As should be clear, his influences range from the Beach Boys to the Beatles to the Band, but his tunes have a timeless quality all their own. He played live in WGBH's studios.
Local Politics
Ambiguity Of Possible Debt Crisis Stymies State Lawmakers
Beacon Hill is trying to prepare for the worst in case Capitol Hill fails to find a solution to the debt-limit crisis. Governor Deval Patrick’s budget chief, Jay Gonzalez, says a failure to reach a compromise could be devastating for Massachusetts.
Boston
Boston Leaders Reflect On Diversity
With over 1,000 people gathered in Hynes Auditorium for the State Of Black Boston conference, a prelude to the National Urban League conference there later this week, Gov. Deval Patrick on Monday said Boston's attitude towards diversity had changed for the better.
Local Politics
Sales-Tax Holiday Moves Foward
Bay State shoppers could be getting a break next month. Massachusetts lawmakers held a public hearing Monday on a bill to establish a sales tax holiday in August.
GREATER BOSTON
Fish Share Reels Local Catches To Area Dinnertables
The Cape Ann Fresh Catch initiative allows customers to buy into a weekly share of a groundfish catch in Gloucester, providing fresh local fish to area dinnertables — and much-needed income for fishermen.
This Week On Beacon Hill
Lawmakers Consider Sales Tax Holiday, Alimony Reform
This week on Beacon Hill, lawmakers take up a range of issues including a sales tax holiday, changes to alimony laws and post-conviction DNA testing.
Boston
Boston Temperature Tops 100 F
An "excessive heat warning" is in effect for Central and Eastern Massachusetts until Friday evening, with the temperature in Boston hitting 102 degrees F by midday.
Boston
Senate Bill Would Establish 'Supportive Housing' For Homeless
The Massachusetts Senate on Thursday passed a new kind of housing bill: The plan calls for new units of "supportive housing," which would feature on-site social services and counseling, as part of an effort to curb and prevent homelessness. WGBH HOMELESSNESS REPORT: RECOGNIZING BRUCE
Science
Boston Astronauts, Scientists Reflect On NASA Shuttle
Cosmic as it was, NASA's space shuttle program hit close to home for members of the Boston area’s academic and private aerospace communities.
THE CALLIE CROSSLEY SHOW
RI's Voter ID Law: Disenfranchisement, Or Good Security?
Earlier this month, Rhode Island became the latest state among a handful that has signed a so-called voter ID law that requires all Rhode Island voters to show valid identification at the polls. Some say the laws disenfranchise the poor, while others say they're simply good protection against voter fraud.
Boston
Westport Officials Work To Cleanup Toxins Found In Middle School
Officials in Westport, Mass., are working to deal with unsafe levels of toxins discovered in a middle school there this week.
Local Politics
Patrick Pushes In-State Tuition For Undocumented Immigrants
Gov. Deval Patrick is emphasizing his support for legislation that would allow undocumented immigrants living in Massachusetts to pay in-state tuition attend the state's public colleges and universities.
REMEMBRANCES
Philanthropist Myra Kraft, Wife of Patriots Owner, Dies
Myra Kraft, the wife of New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft and a hard-working philanthropist dedicated to numerous causes, died Wednesday. She was 68.
Boston
Warnings Issued As Temps., Humidity Climb In Mass.
Local weather and government officials are advising people to take precautions against temperatures that could make parts of Massachusetts feel as hot as 105 degrees Fahrenheit later this week.
Local Politics
RFK Jr.: Patrick Holding NSTAR Merger Hostage To Cape Wind
The administration of Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick is trying to delay a merger between utility giants NSTAR and Northeast Utilities. And Robert F. Kennedy Jr. says the governor is doing it to help the Cape Wind project.
Boston
Former Harvard Fellow Charged With Hacking At MIT
A Cambridge man is facing federal charges of hacking into a computer storage system at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and stealing four million academic journal articles.
Boston
Parishioners At Churches Slated For Sale Fight On
Members of six churches slated for sale by the Archdiocese of Boston are hoping the Vatican can help them keep their parishes open.
Boston
Treasurer Pushes For Review Of State's Alcohol Commission
Massachusetts treasurer Steve Grossman is asking the State Inspector General to conduct a review of the state's Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission.
Local Politics
Some Dems Call For Warren Senate Candidacy
Now that Harvard University professor Elizabeth Warren has been passed over by the Obama Administration to lead the agency that she created, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, some Democrats are hoping that she will challenge U.S. Sen. Scott Brown in 2012.
Local Politics
With One Eye On D.C., Lawmakers Take Up Alimony Reform, DNA Testing
Massachusetts officials are keeping an eye on Washington, D.C. this week as President Obama and Congressional leaders race the clock to avoid defaulting on the U.S. debt. State lawmakers will also take up bills on alimony reform, post-conviction DNA testing and illegal immigration.
Boston
Once A Sewer, The Charles Is Cleaner — No, Really
The Charles River is a finalist for the International Riverprize, awarded for visionary river-management policies. But the International Riverprize nomination may not be enough to convince those who use the river that it’s safe to go in.
Boston
Senate Passes Bill Reforming Truancy Discipline
The Massachusetts Senate on Thursday passed a bill to reform how the state addresses truant and runaway children. The reforms are designed to aid the children's families and to deal with the issue outside of the courts.
Religion
Boston Archdiocese Moves To Sell 6 Closed Churches
The Archdiocese of Boston is moving to sell six of its shuttered churches. At three of them, parishioners who have been keeping vigil and holding lay services are now contemplating how to proceed from here.
Boston
Feds Investigate Boston Airplane Crash
Federal investigators are hoping daylight gives them a better look at two planes damaged in an accident at Boston's Logan International Airport.
Boston
That 'Dirty Water' Isn't So Dirty Anymore
The Charles River is a finalist for a prestigious international honor. The International Riverprize is a $350,000 award for development and implementation of sustainable river management policies.
Classical
Supreme Court Takes Up Small Orchestras' Dilemma
A 1994 U.S. copyright law shifted many foreign artworks out of the public domain, and many musical staples became too expensive for small orchestras to perform. But now their case is before the Supreme Court.
A Celtic Sojourn
Brian O'Donovan Hosts The Lowell Folk Festival
Among the stellar lineup of world musicians coming up at the Lowell Folk Festival on July 30 is the Irish band Dervish. Brian O'Donovan will be hosting Dervish on the main stage at the festival and will be broadcasting live from Lowell all afternoon on July 30. If you are there, come by and say hello.
Boston
No Decision Yet On Bail For Bulger Girlfriend
A judge has delayed ruling whether to grant bail for the longtime girlfriend of former Boston crime boss James "Whitey" Bugler. A tweet-by-tweet recap of the hearing.
Education
New Rules Ban Fried Snacks, Sugary Drinks In Mass. Schools
Massachusetts school children will no longer be able to buy soda or chips from the vending machine. The state's Public Health Council passed new regulations banning fried food, sugary drinks and artifical sweeteners from public schools.
Local Politics
New Bill Would Curb Toxic Chemicals In Everyday Products
Environmental activists in Massachusetts are pushing for quick passage of a bill that would restrict potentially harmful chemicals found in everyday products from window cleaners to shampoo. The so-called Safer Alternatives Bill had an initial hearing Tuesday on Beacon Hill.
Boston
Bulger Companion Bail Hearing Wraps Up
A hearing to determine whether the woman who spent 16 years on the run with former Boston crime boss James "Whitey" Bulger should be granted bail is scheduled to go into a second day after prosecutors used the first to claim that Catherine Greig knowingly helped Bulger hide his identity.
Boston
Bill Russell Statue Planned At City Hall
A statue honoring Celtics great Bill Russell will be installed in Boston's City Hall Plaza, Mayor Thomas M. Menino announced today.
Boston
Bulger Companion Will Seek Bail In Court
Catherine Greig, the longtime girlfriend of former Boston crime boss James "Whitey" Bulger, is due in court for a hearing on her request to be released on bail while awaiting trial on a charge of harboring a fugitive.
This Week On Beacon Hill
Budget Finalized; Lawmakers Consider Alimony Reform
This week in Massachusetts politics, lawmakers are poised to approve Governor Deval Patrick’s changes to a budget measure limiting collective bargaining rights for municipal employees and the House takes up alimony reform.
New England Summer Festivals
Gambas, Sackbuts, And More: Early Music In The City
CRIME
Boston Police To Step Up Park Presence, Continue Targeted Sweeps
Police Commissioner Ed Davis says the Boston Police will continue a series of round-ups, undercover operations and police presence increases in the wake of a jump in shootings in Boston’s Dorchester neighborhood. THE CALLIE CROSSLEY SHOW: CURBING THE CRIME WAVE
89.7 WGBH
Brandeis Art Museum Will Keep Famed Collection Intact
Brandeis University's Rose Art Museum threatened in 2009 to begin auctioning its prized 20th century artworks. But as part of a lawsuit settlement, the administration has now pledged to keep the collection in place and open to the public.
Boston
Boston Has Nation's Highest Ratio Of 20-34 Year-Olds
Boston is home to a bigger proportion of adults ages 20-34 than any other city in America, with 35 percent of its population falling into the age group. Both Mayor Menino and an independent economist agree that's good for the city.
Local Politics
Mayor Lang Will Decide On Senate Run Next Year
New Bedford Mayor Scott Lang says he hasn’t ruled out a run for Scott Brown’s U.S. Senate seat next year, but that he won’t make a decision until January 2012.
Health Care
Blue Cross Will Refund Ex-CEO's Payout
Massachusetts largest health insurer is refunding its customers for the $4.2 million severance payout it gave departing CEO Cleve Killingsworth.
WHERE WE LIVE: SPRINGFIELD
One Month Later, Tornado Victims Rebuild
Just over a month after tornadoes ravaged Springfield, Monson and other nearby communitites in Western Massachusetts, the story here isn’t ruin. It's recovery.
Boston
James 'Whitey' Bulger Pleads Not Guilty
Reputed Boston mob leader James 'Whitey' Bulger pled not guilty to charges including 19 murders during a short hearing on Wednesday.
89.7 WGBH
Summer Reading Recs From Boston's Best
The Emily Rooney Show asked some of area’s best writers — like "House of Sand and Fog" author Andre Dubus III — and notable personalities — like Aerosmith bassist Tom Hamilton — to share book recommendations.
Boston
Thousands Celebrate Fourth In Boston
Hundreds of thousands of revelers with American flags and picnic coolers descended on the Esplanade in Boston on Monday for the annual fireworks show and Boston Pops concert.
Boston
Racing Sailboats Fly In Boston Harbor
You may be used to seeing sailboats on the Charles River or out in Boston Harbor. But this weekend, Boston plays host to a group of forty-foot long catamarans: big, fast, racing sailboats that definitely don’t belong among underpowered daysailers and fat cruising boats.
Boston Symphony Orchestra
The BSO, 24/7
Local Politics
Last-Minute Budget Deal Limits Muni-Health Union Power
Massachusetts lawmakers finally have a budget deal. Filed at the last minute, just before the new fiscal year began Friday, it contains a major policy change that would let cities and towns set co-payments and deductibles for their employees without approval from unions.
Human Trafficking
Anti-Human-Trafficking Bill Passes Mass. Senate
The Massachusetts Senate on Thursday passed an historic human trafficking bill that will expand protections for victims and give law enforcement new statutory powers to go after pimps and other predators. WGBH INVESTIGATES: HUMAN TRAFFICKING
Music News
Narek Hakhnazaryan Wins Tchaikovsky Competition
This Weekend In Boston
Fourth Of July Guide: Fireworks, Redcoats And Celebration
If you’re in the city this weekend, take advantage of the many events happening to mark the Fourth of July. We present a comprehensive guide to bring you the best of the fireworks, the history and the fun.
Boston
"Whitey" Bulger Gets Public Defender
James "Whitey" Bulger will have a taxpayer-funded attorney, and won't be facing a racketeering indictment levied against him in 1994.
Boston
Bulger Due In Court For Two Hearings
Reputed mob boss James "Whitey" Bulger is expected in court as he seeks a taxpayer-funded attorney and fights a move by prosecutors to dismiss an old racketeering indictment in favor of a later case charging him with participating in 19 murders.
Local Politics
Lawmaker: Time To End Mass. Ban On Selling Fireworks
As the Fourth of July approaches, one Massachusetts lawmaker wants to end the state's long-held ban on the sale of fireworks. Massachusetts is currently one of four states nationwide with a complete ban on the sale of fireworks.
Boston
DJ Henry Shooter Sues Liquor Store
A New York police officer who last year shot and killed a 20-year-old Easton native Danroy “DJ” Henry, Jr. is suing a liquor store for allegedly selling alcohol to the victim. But Henry’s mother, Angella, says the lawsuit is intended to distract from the real facts of the case.
Education
Among Teachers, Qualified Support For Use Of MCAS In Evaluations
The state's Education Board has approved new regulations that use students' MCAS scores as one of criteria to evaluate teachers. It's a change many teachers welcome — but they want to make sure it's implemented alongside a series of other changes.
Education
Among Teachers, Qualified Support For Use Of MCAS In Evaluations
The state's Education Board has approved new regulations that use students' MCAS scores as one of criteria to evaluate teachers. It's a change many teachers welcome — but they want to make sure it's implemented alongside a series of other changes. NEW TEACHER EVALUATIONS INCLUDE MCAS SCORES
Summer
Music You Should Hear This Summer
Steve Almond and NPR Music’s Stephen Thompson set out to give your iPod a seasonal jolt with their picks of new and classic songs to suite everything that comes with summer.
Boston
1994 Bulger Racketeering Indictment Dropped
Federal prosecutors have moved to drop a 1994 racketeering indictment against mob boss James “Whitey” Bulger in order to focus on a later indictment that charged the newly captured fugitive for his alleged role in 19 murders.
Boston
MCAS Scores To Count In New Teacher Evaluations
The Massachusetts Board of Education has voted to make student test scores play a bigger role in teacher evalution. TEACHERS' UNION ENDORSES NEW EVALUATION PROPOSAL
Boston
June 2011 Report: Youth Way on the MBTA
89.7 WGBH
Falmouth Soldier Killed In Iraq
A Falmouth soldier, Sgt. Matthew Gallagher, was killed in Iraq on Sunday, according to the U.S. Army and his family. He was 22 years old.
Boston
Prosecutors: Bulger Says He Visited Boston While In Hiding
Longtime fugitive James "Whitey" Bulger came home to Boston last week after 16 years on the run. But the alleged mobster told authorities last Friday was not the first time he visited his hometown since he disappeared in December, 1994.
Boston
Bulger Capture Brings Some Closure To Southie
The hunt for Boston mobster James "Whitey" Bulger is over. On Friday he arrived in Boston and appeared before a crowded federal court in South Boston, the neighborhood he fled from 16 years ago.
Boston
With Bulger Manhunt Over, Questions Begin
After 16 years on the run, James "Whitey" Bulger is now confined to the Plymouth House of Correction's infamous G section. But the story of Bulger's arrest is only just beginning.
Local Politics
No Budget Here, Right-To-Repair Returns
This week on Beacon Hill, Massachusetts state budget talks continue behind closed doors, the state Board of Education considers an overhaul of teacher evaluations and lobbyists renew a battle on the so-called “right to repair” bill.
Boston
For Bulger Brothers, A Reunion Of Sorts
James 'Whitey' Bulger and William Bulger exchanged smiles when the former faced a judge in a Boston court on Friday.
Boston
'Whitey' Bulger Appears In Boston Court
The return to Boston of fugitive gangster James "Whitey" Bulger after 16 years on the run was met Friday with high security at a courthouse not even built when he fled the city and curious spectators who don't remember the heyday of his alleged criminal enterprise.
Boston
Time Running Short For Budget Deal On Beacon Hill
The Massachusetts legislature has until July 1st to hammer out a budget deal. For now, some collective bargaining rights for municipal employees and big cuts to state aid for communities are still up in the air.
Boston
Bulger's Capture Could Bring Scandal To Mass.
Whitey Bulger’s capture could be only the beginning of a new scandal for the Boston FBI and others. If Bulger decides to cut a deal with prosecutors, he could implicate an untold number of local, state and federal law enforcement officials.
Boston
The President Of Senate And The King Of The Underworld
The tale is almost Shakespearian. Two brothers grew up as impoverished immigrants. One would go on to be one of the most powerful politicians in the state. The other would become a notorious crime boss, wanted for his alleged role in 19 murders.
Boston
Bulger Lived In Calif. Apartment For 15 Years
Boston mob boss James “Whitey” Bulger spent almost all of his 16 years on the lam in the same Santa Monica apartment complex, paying his rent in cash every month while he and his girlfriend hid from one of the biggest manhunts in U.S. history, the property managers said Thursday.
Boston
Timeline: Whitey Bulger's Life In Boston
The mobster 'Whitey' Bulger was captured far away from home, but his connection to Boston is fundamental. Here's an expanded timeline of how Bulger's notorious life unfolded, and how it meshed with the life of his hometown — from drugs and gambling to the desegregation busing controversy — over the better part of a century.
Boston
CAPTURED: 'Whitey' Bulger
WGBH's coverage of the arrest of infamous mobster James "Whitey" Bulger.
Boston
Arrest Of Bulger, Former Folk Hero, (Mostly) Welcome News
In South Boston's Ottavio's Barbershop — and, for the most part, the rest of the city — there was only one thing to talk about on Thursday.
89.7 WGBH
Advocates: Trafficking Bill Should Be Stronger
After several years of slow progress, the Massachusetts legislature is close to passing a bill to outlaw and disrupt human-trafficking. But advocates are using the bill's final weeks on the table to try and make it even stronger.
Boston
Mobster Whitey Bulger Arrested In Calif.
Authorities say fugitive Boston crime boss James "Whitey" Bulger has been arrested by the FBI near Los Angeles after 16 years on the run.
WGBH SERIES
Facing Alzheimer's: The Caregivers' Challenge
The Alzheimer's caregivers’ story is often one of sustained stress, exhaustion and isolation. Rates of depression, poor nutrition and chronic disease among caregivers of Alzheimer's patients are higher than for non-caregivers.This week, WGBH's Sean Corcoran explores the challenges of caring for Massachusetts' more than 120,000 Alzheimers' patients.
89.7 WGBH
Harvard Econ. Professor Advises Greek PM
The world is looking at Greece this week as the country works to avoid a default by securing extra bailout money from the EU. And Greek PM George Papandreou is getting advice from Harvard Professor Richard Parker.
THE CALLIE CROSSLEY SHOW
The Callie Crossley Show's Summer Reading Picks
Need something good to read this summer, whether on the beach or just lazing around the house? Arts and culture contributors Yu Jin Ko and Alicia Anstead stopped by "The Callie Crossley Show" to discuss the sanctuary that is summer reading and to offer their own picks for this year.
Local Politics
Sen. Brown, Rep. Tierney Chastise Federal Fishing Authority
A group of Massachusetts’ lawmakers is coming down hard the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the agency at the center of a contentious debate over regional fishing rights — and the subject of a damning Commerce Department investigation last year.
Boston
The FBI Wants You... To Find Whitey's Girlfriend
The FBI is hitting the airwaves to target James "Whitey" Bulger's longtime girlfriend, Catherine Greig. Two Boston FBI agents joined Emily Rooney on "Greater Boston" to discuss the latest strategy to end a 16-year search.
Boston
Many Bruins Revelers Not Your Stereotypical Hockey Fan
The crowd that greeted the Bruins' Stanley Cup parade on Monday represented a mixture of races, ethnicities and gender. Some hope that this show of diversity will redefine what has long been the stereotype of a Boston Bruins fan.
Education
Three Views On English Immersion
An education expert, a guidance counselor and a former student offer their views on English immersion. What's yours?
The Caregivers' Challenge
Facing Alzheimer's: Supporting The Caregivers
Tracking devices, certain medications and group therapy programs are among the tools available in Massachusetts to support Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers.
The Caregivers' Challenge
Facing Alzheimer's: Art Therapy for Alzheimer's
Looking at paintings in a museum or singing songs around a piano is not going to stop Alzheimer's as it steals away memories and personality. But around the country, art and music therapy programs are becoming more common for people with memory impairment.
The Caregivers' Challenge
Facing Alzheimer's: Caring Places
The goal of many people with Alzheimer's disease and their families is to find a way for the person to spend their final days in their home. Oftentimes the burdens associated with the disease makes that impossible, but a new kind of assisted-living home for the memory-impaired offers an alternative to the traditional nursing home.
The Caregivers' Challenge
Facing Alzheimer's: Planning For Loss
The Noonan family knows too well what it's like to watch a loved one die of Alzheimer's: Their mother had it, and passed it on to at least four of her ten children. They say advanced planning, although painful, has been key to helping the family handle the disease.
The Caregivers' Challenge
Facing Alzheimer's: Plight Of The Caregivers
There are more than 120,000 people with Alzheimer's Disease in Massachusetts. Their caregivers each have stories of sustained stress, isolation and exhaustion -- with higher-than-normal rates of depression and chronic disease. This week, WGBH's Sean Corcoran takes a deep look at the challenges of caregiving.
Boston
In Southie, A Bruins Celebration Decades In The Making
As the Bruins’ final face-off against the Vancouver Canucks came to a decisive, victorious end, the whole city of Boston erupted with joy. At The Connection, longtime Southie residents came together to enjoy a moment 39 years in the making, launching into a group rendition of “We are the Champions.”
Boston
Bruins Win Stanley Cup
When the Bruins and their brilliant goalie barged into a hostile Canadian rink surrounded by another 100,000 screaming fans outside for Game 7, they emerged with the championship they wanted.
Sports
Drawing On Longtime Connections, Halifax Officials Root For Bruins
The city of Boston is decked out in black and gold ahead of Game 7 of The Stanley Cup, when the Bruins will face off for the last time against the Vancouver Canucks. Bruins fans are hoping they’ll see their team take home their first Stanley Cup since the 1970s. BRUINS FANS EAGER TO FIGHT FOR STANLEY CUP
89.7 WGBH
Bruins Fans Ready For Stanley Cup Showdown
Just hours before the Boston Bruins square off against the Vancouver Canucks, Bruins Mania is in the air. It seemed to be on the minds of just about everyone in downtown Boston.
The Emily Rooney Show
The DiMasi Verdict: Higher Burden Of Proof On 'Honest Services' Fraud Charge
Ex. House Speaker Sal DiMasi was on Wednesday found guilty on seven counts related to his corruption trial -- one of which was "theft honest services by fraud." That's a confusing charge -- so much so that the jury had to ask the judge for him to repeat his instructions on it. We explain what it means. DIMASI CONVICTED IN CORRUPTION TRIAL
Local Politics
Ex-Speaker DiMasi Convicted Of Corruption
A federal jury has convicted former Massachusetts House Speaker Salvatore DiMasi of conspiracy and other charges in a scheme to steer two state contracts worth $17.5 million to a software firm in exchange for payments to the powerful lawmaker and two friends.
Boston
Bruins, Canucks Prepare To Face Off In Game 7
The Vancouver Canucks and the profoundly resilient Bruins will play their 107th and final game when their draining seasons finally end in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Finals on Wednesday night.
Boston
Boston Prepares For Possible Stanley Cup Win
The city of Boston is taking extra precautions as it prepares for possible Stanley Cup celebrations.
Education
Total Immersion: Teaching English With English
Massachusetts voters decided in 2002 that public school teachers should speak mostly English in their classrooms. WGBH's Andrea Smardon visits Woodrow Wilson Elementary in Framingham, where the entire school is focused on the needs of English Language Learners.
The Emily Rooney Show
'Miss Conduct' Addresses All Sides Of Wedding Gift Anxiety
The phone lines were open as WGBH's social etiquette guru Robin Abrahams stopped by The Emily Rooney Show to discuss everything you ever wanted to know about wedding gifts -- but were afraid to ask.
The World
Mass. Refugees Reckon With Tornado Damage
In West Springfield, many of the people displaced by this month's tornadoes have been displaced before. They’re refugees from places like Somalia, Iraq and Nepal.
Boston
Bill Aims To Seal Natural Gas Leaks
A Massachusetts lawmaker is raising concerns about potential natural gas explosions. She's calling for new laws regulating the thousands of known gas leaks around the state.
Education
Total Immersion: Students Team Up For Dual Immersion
Massachusetts’ voters decided in 2002 that public school teachers should speak only English in their classrooms. But at the Dever-McCormack K-8 School in Dorchester, teachers are bringing Spanish back into the classroom.
This Week On Beacon Hill
Waiting On A Verdict, Disaster Funding, And A Budget
There will be a lot of waiting this week on Beacon Hill. A federal jury mulls over the fate of former House Speaker Sal DiMasi, while a legislative conference committee weighs the 2012 state budget.
Education
Weigh In: You Grade English Immersion
Massachusetts voters decided in 2002 that public school teachers should speak only English in their classrooms. This week, WGBH’s Andrea Smardon is investigating the impact of the ballot measure known as Question 2. Now, we want to hear from parents and students who have experienced English-only education in Massachusetts. Fill out the form below to share your thoughts on English immersion. We'll publish excerpts during and after the series.
Education
Total Immersion: Assessing English-Only Education In Massachusetts
Massachusetts voters decided in 2002 that public school teachers should speak only English in their classrooms. This week, WGBH’s Andrea Smardon investigates the impact of the ballot measure known as Question 2. I
WHERE WE LIVE: CHELSEA
Chelsea Art Walk Celebrates A Rebounding City
WGBH's Bob Seay goes on a preview tour of Chelsea's third annual Art Walk, which brings artists and citizens together to celebrate their rebounding city. WGBH'S WHERE WE LIVE
Boston Pops
Classic Pops!
Saturday, June 11 at 7pm on 99.5 All Classical
Boston
In Boston, Surgeons Perform Full Face Transplant
Doctors at a Boston hospital have performed a full face transplant on the Connecticut woman who was mauled two years ago by her friend’s pet chimpanzee.
Local Politics
Murray Hopes To Overhaul State Budgeting
Does Senate President Therese Murray have the political capital to dramatically overhaul the state budgeting process?
Boston
Bruins Rout Canucks, Even Stanley Cup Finals
The Bruins emphatically evened the finals at two games apiece with a 4-0 victory over the foundering Vancouver Canucks in Game 4 on Wednesday night.
WHERE WE LIVE: JAMAICA PLAIN
Amid Criticism, JP Whole Foods Development Continues
When Whole Foods announced in January it was moving into the Hi-Lo Foods supermarket in Boston’s Jamaica Plain neighborhood, it was met with a firestorm of criticism, igniting a debate over gentrification and business rights. Six months later, the conversation continues — and in some ways, it’s only gotten louder.
GREATER BOSTON
Boston Talks: Is It Adultery If It's Online?
Rep. Anthony Weiner on Monday admitted to having online dalliances with several women. Some say it's not adultery if it only happens online — but the people we asked around Boston didn't think the virtual nature of Weiner's transgressions should let him off the hook.
Sports
Could Candlepin Bowling Flicker Out?
Whatever happened to bowling night? Once a staple of a fun night out, shrinking ranks of candlepin bowling lovers could force some bowling alleys to close down for good.
89.7 WGBH
Where We Live: April 2011 Coverage
Here we compile the complete coverage from the April 2011 installment of our Where We Live series: our features on towns and cities across the state, selected responses from listeners and readers, and some related stories that touch on community and economic life.
GREATER BOSTON VIDEO
A History Lesson For Sarah Palin
Critics pounced on Sarah Palin's comment that Paul Revere "warned the British" about the American uprising during the Revolutionary War. But the former Alaska governor insists her version of history is accurate. We asked a Harvard history professor to sort myth from reality.
Music
Boston Pops Tap Own History For American Songbook Celebration
The Boston Pops' 126th season is now underway, with a special focus on the American Songbook. That's a phrase we've all heard -- but what does it actually mean? WGBH's Jared Bowen asked the experts.
Boston
Mass. Won't Participate In Immigration Check Program
Gov. Deval Patrick has decided not to have Massachussetts sign on to a controversial federal program that allows local police to share information with federal immigration officials.
This Week On Beacon Hill
Officials Seek Tornado Damage Assistance
This week, Bay State officials continue to help steer recovery efforts in the tornado-ravaged areas of Western Massachusetts. The defense begins its case in the public corruption trial of former House Speaker Sal DiMasi and the state Senate takes up a bill aimed at cutting down on government waste.
89.7 WGBH
In Monson, 'Trying To Save Whatever We Can'
Three tornadoes swept Massachusetts on Wednesday. Some of the gravest destruction was in Monson, Mass., where on Thursday residents were still trying just to process the damage.
Boston Pops
Pops Goes Motown!
Saturday, June 4 at 7pm on 99.5 All Classical
Weather & National Disasters
In Springfield, Tornado Cleanup Begins
By Thursday afternoon, shock and fear from a tornado that struck Springfield on Wednesday had given way to a city-wide effort of soldiers, safety officials and residents beginning to put their city back together.
POLITICS
Romney Kicks Off 2012 Campaign In N.H.
Former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney made it official yesterday: He's running for president. He made the announcment in New Hampshire, a state where he's considered the frontrunner for the GOP primary — but does he have it on lock?
WHERE WE LIVE: SPRINGFIELD
Soldiers, Onlookers And Safety Officials Process Damage In Springfield
Massachusetts officials are still assessing the damage from multiple tornadoes that swept through Springfield and a number of other communities Wednesday. At least 200 buildings were destroyed and four people died during the storms.
MASS. TORNADOES
Deadly Tornadoes Leave Hundreds Of Injuries, Wrecked Buildings
Communities in Central and Western Massachusetts are digging themselves out of the immense damage left behind by a Wednesday storm system that spawned at least three tornadoes.
WEATHER
After Deadly Mass. Tornado, 'Jaw-Dropping' Destruction
At least four people are dead after violent storms swept through Massachusetts on Wednesday, spawning at least two tornados. A photographer who walked through Springfield just after a tornado touched down in the city described collapsed buildings, uprooted trees, damaged cars and widespread shock.
89.7 WGBH
Human Trafficking Bill Passes The House
Massachusetts has the distinction of being one of just four states without its own trafficking law. But Attorney General Martha Coakley is trying to change that, pushing a human-trafficking bill that’s up for debate in the Massachusetts House on Wednesday.
GREATER BOSTON
Origins Of Carson Beach Fight Disputed
Carson Beach was the scene of a tense standoff between hundreds of youth and law enforcement officials after a fight drew a large crowd. But it's unclear exactly what happened, and whether gangs are involved.
Health
WHO: Cellphones May Be Carcinogenic
An international panel of experts says cellphones are possibly carcinogenic to humans after reviewing details from dozens of published studies.
GREATER BOSTON
Have You Heard? Study Says Gossip Protects You
It’s no secret that dishing the dirt on the latest scandal is fun. But a Northeastern Study says gossip literally changes how we see others — and it’s meant to protect us.
This Week On Beacon Hill
Budget Compromise, Trafficking Bill On The Docket
This week on Beacon Hill, the budget proposals for the upcoming fiscal year head to conference committee, lawmakers take up a human-trafficking bill and University of Massachusetts trustees discuss potential fee hikes.
Local Politics
Gov. Testimony At DiMasi Trial Appears To Bolster Prosecution
Gov. Deval Patrick told prosecutors ex-House Speaker Sal DiMasi repeatedly reminded him about the importance of a software contract that would eventually go to Cognos, the company DiMasi is accused of steering government contracts toward in exchange for kickbacks.
Health Care
At Some Hospitals, Widely Different Costs For Same Services
A new report from the Patrick Administration says big cost variations for the same services at different hospitals are common in Massachusetts. Those costs differences are becoming a central issue as the legislature takes up Gov. Deval Patrick's proposals to control health care costs MIXED REACTIONS TO PATRICK'S HC REFORM BILL
Where We Live: Somerville
Pop! Goes The Gourmand
An invitation-only restaurant is popping up for one night at a time around Somerville, Cambridge and Boston. We joined temporal gourmand JJ Gonson for one of her signature one-off banquets — and listened in on the lesson on cooking local she serves alongside the 10-course feast.
Local Politics
Senate Budget Cuts: The Question Isn't If, But How Much
The state Senate is well into its second day of debate on its budget for the next fiscal year, which begins in July. Budget cuts and municipal health costs are emerging as the bigger sticking points in debate. EARLIER: SENATE BUDGET GIVES UNIONS 'VOICE, NO VETO'
Race & Ethnicity
Study: Whites Say Anti-White Bias On Rise
A new study conducted by professors at Tufts University and Harvard Business School says whites think anti-white bias is on the rise. But an unscientific trip to downtown Boston doesn't yield the same results.
Media
Junger: Front-Line War Coverage 'Of No Use To Anyone'
For a long time, the name Sebastian Junger has been almost synonymous with the word “war.” He explains to WGBH's why he's leaving front-line coverage — and why he's beginning to doubt its overall efficacy.
Cambridge
Shaq Attacks Sleep Apnea
POLITICS
Patrick At The DiMasi Trial: What Are The Stakes?
Governor Deval Patrick will be called to testify later this week or early next week in the corruption trial of former House Speaker Sal Dimasi. He'll be the first sitting governor in 15 years to testify at a criminal trial.
Government
Witness Thought Kickbacks Were Going To DiMasi
The corruption trial of former House Speaker Sal DiMasi continued Tuesday with testimony from Bruce Major, the former business partner of Joseph Lally, the overeager software salesman turned government cooperating witness. YOUR DIMASI TRIAL GUIDE
WGBH ARCHIVES
Somerville Organist Looks Back On Work With Bob Dylan
Tuesday is Bob Dylan's 70th birthday. We delve into WGBH's archives to learn from a Somerville native what it's like to work with the legendary musician.
Environment
After 30 Years And $1 B, Mass. Superfund Sites Still Toxic
There are 31 contaminated sites have attained Superfund status due to contamination. According to EPA records, at least one-third of those sites may pose a health risk to people living and working nearby.
Environment
Toxics In Massachusetts: A Town-By-Town Profile
An investigation by the New England Center for Investigative reporting found more than 30 toxic sites in Massachusetts. Scroll through this town-by-town report, compiled by the Toxics Action Center, to learn more.
WHERE WE LIVE: ASHLAND
25 Years Later, A Poisoned Town Can't Come Clean
A study by the New England Center For Investigative Reporting has found that many Massachusetts sites, including the one in Woburn, still live with a toxic legacy. WGBH's Jared Bowed heads to Ashland, home to a plant whose waste practices ultimately turned deadly.
POLITICS
Brown, Kerry Say 'No' To Ryan Budget
Both of Massachusetts' senators are voicing opposition to a proposal in Congress that would turn Medicare into a privatized, voucher-based system.
The Emily Rooney Show
Crosby, Nash: 'We Love Singing Together'
David Crosby and Graham Nash, of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, joined WGBH's Emily Rooney to talk about their music — and what it's like to continue playing together after all these years.
Business
Former State Environmental Chief Gets Into Business
Former Massachusetts Energy & Environmental Affairs Secretary Ian Bowles is heading into the private sector. He left his post as the state's top environmental official at the beginning of this year, and is now starting a new consulting firm with three other colleagues from the state.
This Week On Beacon Hill
Senate May Slash Budget; DiMasi Trial Continues
This week on Beacon Hill, lawmakers will take up the Senate Ways and Means Committee’s budget plan for the fiscal year that begins in July. Meanwhile, the corruption trial of former House Speaker Sal DiMasi enters its third week of testimony.
Boston
In Boston, Freedom Riders Continue Activism
The story of the Freedom Ride is not just a story about the South. Freedom Riders came from and now live all over the country, enriching their communities with the convictions that led them to the Ride and the memories of what they experienced on it. Meet two Freedom Riders who are longtime Boston residents.
Boston
AG: Revere Man Made Millions With Fake T Passes
Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley says police have arrested a Revere man who allegedly sold millions of dollars in fake MBTA passes. Investigators are calling it the largest fraud of its kind in MBTA history.
Local Politics
State Senate Budget Give Unions 'Voice But No Veto'
Last month, the Massachusetts House of Representatives passed a measure that would strip public employees of collective bargaining rights over health care benefits. The move infuriated unions. On Wednesday, Senate leaders unveiled a similar measure, though it gives unions some more room to negotiate.
CLIMATIDE
A Look At The 2010 Fishing Season
Scientists from NOAA's Northeast Fisheries Center in Woods Hole have released an upbeat preliminary report on the 2010 fishing season — the first to be managed by catch-shares management. They say the year saw no overfishing and higher revenues for fishermen.
Human Trafficking
Coakley Human Trafficking Bill Garners Lawmaker, Victim Support
Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley is pressing lawmakers on an initiative to crack down on human trafficking in the Bay State. At a press conference on Tuesday, Coakley said young women forced into prostitution are treated as criminals when they should be treated as victims.
Boston
Haz-Mat Team Probes Situation At Boston Federal Building
The Boston Fire Department is investigating a possible hazardous materials situation at the Tip O'Neill federal building in Boston.
Digital Life
Data-Sharing Websites May Facilitate Identity Theft
A South Boston woman is struggling with identity theft — and it may not have been difficult for the theives to get her information. A crop of websites are aggregating personal information and showing it to anyone who wants to see, for free.
Boston
Dorchester Student Brings Freedom Ride Lessons Home
Tariq Meyers says growing up in Dorchester made him who he is. He participated in the 2011 Student Freedom Ride — and he hopes to use lessons from the experience to bring a new activism, steeped in history, to his home neighborhood.
Local Politics
Key Witness Describes Funneling Money To DiMasi
Testimony is over for the week in the federal corruption trial of former Massachusetts House Speaker Sal DiMasi, who is accused of taking thousands of dollars in bribes in exchange for steering a multi-million dollar state contract to a software firm, Cognos. The man who allegedly funneled the kickbacks to the former speaker was back on the stand Thursday.
Economy
Bankruptcies At Record High In Mass.
Bankruptcy filings in Massachusetts are up -- way up. There were 23,000 filings last year, up 16 percent from 2009. The national rate, meanwhile, rose just 9 percent. In an interview with WGBH's Bob Seay, bankruptcy trustee Carolyn Bankowski cited the sluggish economy and slow housing market as factors in the rise.
WHERE WE LIVE: NEWTON
In Newton, A Chilly Reception For Mayor Warren's Senate Bid
Newton Mayor Setti Warren declared his 2012 Senate candidacy on Tuesday -- but his bid is getting a chilly receptiion in his hometown.
FREEDOM RIDERS
Notes From The Freedom Ride: New Orleans, La.
WGBH's Phillip Martin follows a group of 40 students from around the country as they retrace the path of the original Freedom Riders.
Local Politics
Newton Mayor Announces U.S. Senate Run
Setti Warren, the Mayor of Newton, announced Monday that he'll run for Senate in 2012, hoping to face U.S. Sen. Scott Brown in the general election. Warren faces an uphill battle for name recognition.
FREEDOM RIDERS
Students Follow In Freedom Riders' Footsteps
WGBH's Phillip Martin is following 40 students retrace the path of the Freedom Rides, the 1961 student demonstrations against segregation in the South. We meet student rider Peter Davis, and learn how he has been inspired by original rider Genevieve Houghton.
Business
Fisherman: Catch-Share Sectors 'Eliminate' Some Business
Fisherman are wrapping up their first full year of compliance with a new set of federal regulations intended to prevent overfishing, called "sectors." Some fisherman say it's helped their businesses, but WGBH's Bob Seay speaks to a Plymouth fisherman who says he's lost 60 percent of his income because of the rules.
Economy
Jobs Added, But Unemployment Rises To 9 Percent
Employers added more than 200,000 jobs in April for the third straight month, the biggest hiring spree in five years. But the unemployment rate rose to 9 percent in part because some people resumed looking for work.
Politics
Analysis: One Day In, DiMasi Trial Promises Drama
The long-awaited trial of former House Speaker Sal DiMasi on federal corruption charges started Thursday. Based on the opening statements, it won't disappoint in terms of drama or political intrigue.
Local Politics
Mass. Auditor Suzanne Bump Fires 27
State Auditor Suzanne Bump announced Thursday that she's firing 27 employees, including 20 from audit operations and seven from the Bureau of Special Investigations, which probes waste, fraud and abuse in public assistance programs like MassHealth and food stamps.
Local Politics
Gov. Patrick Will Testify At Ex.-Speaker's Trial
Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick is being called to testify in the federal public corruption trial of former state House Speaker Salvatore DiMasi.
Boston
Boston Chemist Applies Lessons Of Freedom Ride To Local Activism
T he same convictions that Harvard chemist Mike Wolfson on the Freedom Ride in 1961 have led him to engage in activism in Boston for the past 40 years.
CRIME AND JUSTICE
2 Teens Sentenced In Bullying Death Case
Two of the six teenagers charged in connection with the bullying related suicide of a Massachusetts high school sophomore have been sentenced to a year of probation. SUICIDE AFTERMATH STILL DIVIDES SOUTH HADLEY
Boston
Activists Call For New Boston Precinct Map
Voting rights advocates are asking the City of Boston to draw a new precinct map for the city. Boston is the only city in Massachusetts not required to redraw precincts once every 10 years.
Boston
Amid Rising Gas Prices, T Ridership Increases
The MBTA is reporting its largest month-to-month ridership jump in two-and-a-half years. PASSENGERS: RISING GAS PRICES AND PUBLIC TRANSIT
Boston
Area 9/11 Victims: 'It's A Day Of Remembrance'
The news of Osama bin Laden's death ricocheted around the world Sunday night, leaving families of 9/11 victims and soldiers killed in the War on Terror with an unimaginable amount to process.
Boston
On The Common, Revelers Celebrate Bin Laden's Death
A large crowd, mostly students, spilled onto Boston Common last night to celebrate the news of the death of Osama bin Laden.
Local Politics
House Budget Rundown: Some New Funding, HC Loss For Unions
The Massachusetts House of Representatives are sending a $30.5 billion spending bill to the Senate. So what's in it?
WHERE WE LIVE: HARWICH
One Year Old, Catch-Share Sectors 'Effective For Business'
It has been one year since fishermen in the Northeast began using a new system, called "sectors," for regulating catch shares. Fishermen are split on whether the system of cooperative fishing rights an improvement over old regulations. WGBH's Bob Seay spoke to one fisherman who supports the new system.
Education
Questions Linger As State Moves Forward With Teacher Evaluation Overhaul
The State Department of Elementary and Secondary Education is moving forward with plans to overhaul its method for evaluating teachers, including the use of student test scores as a measure of teacher performance.
Local Politics
Lenk Faces Tough Questions From Social Conservatives
Social conservatives in Massachusetts put up a fight during the confirmation hearing for Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court nominee Barbara Lenk, who is gay.
World News
Harvard Scholar Elected Tibetan Exiles Leader
A Harvard legal scholar who has been elected the next prime minister of Tibet's government-in-exile is vowing to continue Tibet's struggle for autonomy.
FREEDOM RIDERS
From Lowell To Jackson: One Freedom Rider's Story
In July 1961, Lowell native Ellen Ziskind joined the Freedom Ride, spending six weeks in a Mississippi prison after defying the state's segregation rule. 50 years later, she shares her story.
Local Politics
Patrick: Tone Down Muni-Health Rhetoric
The Massachusetts House has voted to strip police officers, teachers and other local government workers of most of their collective bargaining rights over health care.
Jazz
JazzWeek 2011 To Honor Eric Jackson
Local Politics
Unions Mobilize As House Considers Collective Bargaining Rights
The Massachusetts House is one day into its deliberations on a controversial budget would give cities and towns the ability to change employee health plans without union approval, and unions are mobilizing to keep it from passing. EARLIER: WIS. UNION SUPPORTERS RALLY AT STATE HOUSE
Education
At Dorchester School, Inclusion Through Art
An international education conference is highlighting the work of Dorchester's William Henderson Inclusion Elementary School for its pioneering work incorporating the arts into its classrooms. WGBH's Andrea Smardon visits the school.
Education
Where You Live: Norwood
As a Norwood watches her town's schools face down music and arts cuts, she wonders why fine arts programming is viewed as an extracurricular, rather than core, school subject.
Boston
Where You Live: Haverhill
"Haverhill is a very old city with creaking bones and a sagging face which is currently taking long sips from the 'fountain of youth.'"
POSTCARD FROM BOSTON
Boston Cyclists Have Big Hopes For Bike Share
Boston cycling enthusiasts hope that the city's brand-new bike-share program, set to launch in July, will help the city become a two-wheeled one.
WGBH Special Reports
Human Trafficking Ringleader Jailed In Providence
A New York man is beginning 10 years behind bars in Rhode Island after pleading no contest to three counts of human trafficking earlier this month. His conviction marks the first successful prosecution of a human trafficking case in Rhode Island in two years.
Local Voices
DeLeo Bill Would Revamp Mass. Probation Department
The Massachusetts Probation Department would remain under the jurisdiction of the courts, but a new civilian administrator would help run the agency under a bill being unveiled by House Speaker Robert DeLeo.
Art & Design
Smee Talks Pulitzer, The Globe And Sports
Sebastian Smee has added a Pulitzer to the Boston Globe's mantle for his vivid, layered arts criticism. He spoke to WGBH's Emily Rooney about the award, his future plans and his commitment to arts criticism.
GREATER BOSTON
Stoughton Man's Big Idea Is A Tiny House
Calling himself a bizarre-chitect, Derek Diedricksen is a master of cobbling together bizarrely-shaped, teeny-tiny houses that make downtown bathrooms look roomy.
FREEDOM RIDERS
Boston-Area Freedom Riders Look Back
Check back this month for personal interviews with New Englanders who joined the original Freedom Ride.
Boston
Henry Family Files Wrongful Death Lawsuit
On Wednesday, the parents of a college student from Massachusetts who was killed by police in a New York suburb plan to file a multi-million dollar civil lawsuit against two police departments.
CLIMATIDE
Feds Approve Cape Wind's Construction Plan
A federal agency has approved a construction plan for a wind farm off the Massachusetts coast, clearing the way for work to begin on the nation's first offshore wind farm as early as this fall.
Burlington
Umbrella Prompts Evacuation Of Burlington Mall
A mall near Boston was evacuated Tuesday morning after witnesses reported seeing a man with a rifle inside. But by midday, state police confirmed there was no rifle at the Burlington Mall — just a man with an umbrella.
PATRIOTS DAY
How - And Why - We Piece Together Patriots Day Reenactements
Monday is Patriots Day, and one of the events that will mark the day is the reenactment of the battles of Lexington and Concord. One Redcoat reenactor told Morning Edition how — and why — thousands of volunteers piece together battles centuries old.
BOSTON MARATHON
Mutai Wins Boston Marathon In Record Time
Kenya's Geoffrey Mutai has won the Boston Marathon in an unofficial 2 hours, 3 minutes, 2 seconds — the fastest marathon ever run. Caroline Kilel won the women's race.
Human Trafficking
WGBH Human Trafficking Series Wins Edward R. Murrow Award
In recent years, law enforcement officials in Rhode Island and Massachusetts have reported increases in human trafficking, and by some estimates there are around 20,000 victims brought into the United States each year.
Health Care
Coakley: Nonprofit Board-Member Pay Unjustified
Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley is filing legislation that would allow her to prohibit nonprofits from paying their board members. The move follows the public uproar over generous salaries and severance packages at the state's largest health insurer.
Economy
Mass. Unemployment Drops To 8 Percent
State officials say the Massachusetts unemployment rate dropped to 8 percent in March as 3,200 jobs were added during the month.
Business
Cambridge-Based Zipcar Shares Soar In Market Debut
Shares of Zipcar Inc. are soaring in their market debut after the initial public offering priced better than the company had predicted.
Boston
Parents Of DJ Henry 'Insulted' By NY Officer Award
The family of an Easton, Massachusetts college student, who was fatally shot by a policeman in Westchester County, New York last year, is reacting angrily to a decision by a police union in that state to honor the officer involved.
Boston
MBTA: Without New Funding, Expect More Frozen Delays
On Tuesday, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority and the company that runs its commuter rail service were grilled on the hundreds of other delays that plagued the system during the winter months.
Books
Patrick Hopes Others Have Reason To Believe
In his new memoir, A Reason To Belive, Gov. Patrick recounts his unlikely rise from a difficult youth on Chicago's South Side, to Pepsi executive, to Massachusetts governor. But in an interview with WGBH's Emily Rooney, Patrick says his story is not -- and should not be -- all that rare.
Health Care
Mass. Health Care Law Turns Five
Massachusetts' landmark universal health care law turns five Tuesday. State leaders are celebrating the occasion — and some are using it to point out that it was passed by then-Gov. Mitt Romney, who is now an opponent of national health reform and a possible GOP candidate for president.
POLITICS
Gov. Romney Announces WH Exploratory Committee
Republican Mitt Romney took the first official steps toward a second presidential bid Monday, telling supporters he had formed an exploratory committee to begin a White House run.
HUMANKIND
Rising Gas Prices Could Send More Americans Back To Public Transit
Rising gas prices could send more Americans back to public transit, but are the country’s transit systems, already worn down by slashed budgets and growing demand, well-equipped to handle increased demand?
HUMANKIND
Rising Cost Of Petroleum Could Send More Americans Back To Public Transit
Rising gas prices could send more Americans back to public transit, but are the country’s transit systems, already worn down by slashed budgets and growing demand, well-equipped to handle increased demand?
Business
Internet Sales Tax Loophole Cuts Both Ways On Main Street
Lawmakers on Beacon Hill are holding a hearing Thursday on a proposal to close the legal loophole that allows major Internet retailers like Amazon.com and Overstock.com to avoid charging sales tax. But local affiliates of those big online retailers say it will hurt their business.
CLIMATIDE
Four Reasons Sea Level Is Rising In New England
When it comes to sea level rise, New England is above average. Understanding why requires digging into the multiple distinct processes, both global and local, including melting ice and shifting land.
Education
Lawrence Teacher Firings Ignite Debate
Lawrence teachers are responding to the news that one third of their corps will not be returning to their jobs in the fall, one year after the school was termed underperforming by the state.
Health Care
At Forum, Patrick Stumps For Global Payments
The governor opened a Tuesday forum on health-care costs by calling on lawmakers and health care interest groups to rein in the spiraling costs of health care — and to do so quickly. EARLIER: MIXED REACTION TO PATRICK HEALTH CARE BILL
The Emily Rooney Show
Pressley Defends Sexual-Assault Awareness Efforts
Ayanna Pressley told her own story of on-campus sexual assault in order to raise awareness about the issue. Although she's facing some hostility for doing so, the Boston City Councilor is going forward with plans to hold a hearing about what colleges and universities can do to prevent on-campus sexual assault -- and encourage victims to come forward.
NEWS
Patrick Nominates First Openly Gay SJC Justice
Gov. Deval Patrick has tapped Barbara Lenk, who would be the first openly gay Supreme Judicial Court justice, to fill an open slot on Massachusetts' highest court.
CLIMATIDE
Fighting A Losing Battle With The Sea
The conservative consensus among experts calls for 2-3 feet of sea level rise by 2100,and as much as foot by 2050. That could affect life on Cape Cod.
Beverly
Where You Live: Beverly
A resident of Beverly reflects on the changes he observed after living in the town during two different periods over several decades: " The city has history. Something sorely missing. Not sure what that is."
CRIME
Brockton Man Will Face Charges After Police Standoff
The standoff began when David Luke, the father of a self-proclaimed white supremacist, telephoned police On Sunday to say he was heavily armed, and demanded to speak with Boston television reporters.
This Week On Beacon Hill
Eyes On Nuclear Safety, Pension Reform This Week
This week on Beacon Hill, Massachusetts lawmakers take testimony on major issues including pension reform and nuclear safety, while a judge on the state's highest court has plans to step down.
WHERE WE LIVE
Devens Makes Plans Far Beyond Evergreen Solar
The former army base Devens has been thrust into the spotlight as the place where alternative energy company Evergreen Solar built a manufacturing plant, then abruptly closed it, moving its operations to China. But Evergreen is only part of a larger story of rapid economic change in Devens.
WHERE WE LIVE
Immigrant Community Shores Ashland Against Recession
An influx of Indian immigrants has helped bring economic growth to Ashland -- and led to an expansion of the town's Sri Lakshmi Temple.
WHERE WE LIVE
For Saugus, A Push Beyond Route 1
Saugus's Route 1 location is considered a gold mine for retailers and restaurants. The town has never needed a planner to encourage that kind of development -- but some residents think its time to build a vision for the other parts of town.
89.7 WGBH
State Leaders Butt Heads On Probation
Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick's top public safety official butted heads with the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court Wednesday over Patrick's proposal to overhaul the state's troubled probation department. The disagreement came at a State House hearing before the Joint Judiciary Committee.
WHERE WE LIVE
As New Bedford Tourism Develops, Schools Still Struggle
With thriving museums and new businesses opening downtown, it has the feel of a city on rise once again. But when you move away from the trendy cafes and art galleries, it’s clear the former whaling capital’s problems with jobs and education still run deep.
WHERE WE LIVE
Private Developer Wants To Remake Downtown Quincy
Quincy's downtown used to be Shopper's Town USA -- but today, many of those stores are gone as shoppers have moved to more suburban mall. The city is now looking to a $1.3 billion deal with a private developer to revitalize its downtown.
WHERE WE LIVE
Fishing Sustains Chatham Economy
Chatham owes just about everything it has to the fact it's located on the ocean. From its architecture — which, in many cases was based on buildings sea captains would find in other areas of the world — to its culture and tourism, the sea has helped keep the community fiscally strong, including during this recent financial trouble.
WHERE WE LIVE
Where YOU Live: Your Stories
The WGBH News Where We Live series wants to hear from YOU — the viewers, listeners and web visitors. Is the American Dream still possible in your town?
WHERE WE LIVE
Small Business Prevails In 'City Of Champions'
Long known as the city of Rocky Marciano, Brockton has been transformed from a small city anchored by mid-sized enterprises to a community dotted with numerous small businesses.
WHERE WE LIVE
Foxboro: On The Heels Of The Patriots
Gillette Stadium, the home of the Patriots, is Foxboro's economic engine. But hosting the NFL's most successful franchise also means cleaning up after it -- and living with the instability currently dominating NFL contract negotiations.
Business
Fidelity To Patrick: It's Not You, It's Me
Gov. Deval Patrick has confirmed that Fidelity will not reverse its decision to move 1,000 jobs out of Massachusetts — and says the investment company has apologized to him for announcing its decision when he was out of the country.
Education
Program Aims To Get Comm. College Students To UMass
UMass Amherst is making it easier for graduates of the state’s two-year community colleges to attend and afford the four-year school. A new program unveiled Wednesday offers admission and free tuition to students with certain GPA's -- but critics say the program doesn't do enough to reduce academic fees.
CENSUS 2010
Census: Greater Diversity Changes Face Of Massachusetts
The U.S. Census Bureau released population data for Massachusetts on Tuesday, revealing a distinct trend: The state’s communities of color are growing, while the white population is declining.
Boston
Census Shows Minority Gains In Mass.
U.S. Census figures released Tuesday show significant gains in Massachusetts' minority populations. Both the state's Asian and Hispanic populations grew by 46 percent, while the state's black population grew by 26 percent.
News
Update: Census Figures Miscalculated
The Massachusetts secretary of state's office says population numbers it released for cities and towns on Tuesday were miscalculated. IN CENSUS, MASS. LOSES CONGRESSIONAL SEAT
89.7 WGBH
Ferry Company Reverses Course On Cape Wind
A prominent Cape Cod ferry company has reversed course and says it no longer opposes the plan to install 130 wind turbines in Nantucket Sound, and instead will look to conduct "eco tours" of the Cape Wind turbine site.
This Week On Beacon Hill
Census Data Comes To Mass. This Week
Change in state politics — from term limits to redistricting to remaking the Parole Board — seems to be a theme this week on Beacon Hill.
Boston
Fukushima Crisis Puts New Eyes On MIT Nuclear Reactor
Japan’s frantic effort to cool down a damaged nuclear facility has thrust nuclear power reactors back into the public’s imagination here in the United States. That’s bringing attention to New England's Pilgrim and Vermont Yankee plants — but also to a little-noticed reactor in Massachusetts.
CRITICAL MASS: ADAM REILLY ON POLITICS
A Bravura Performance At Today's Patrick Presser
There was a big media crowd at Governor Patrick's press availability this morning, and it's safe to say that most of us thought things might get testy after the Patrick Administration took some hits in the media this week. But there were no fireworks. The governor did, well, great.
Business
Mass. Lawmakers Demand Answers As Fidelity Departs
Massachusetts lawmakers are demanding answers after Fidelity Investments announced this week that it's closing its Marlboro plant and moving its jobs out of state.
BOSTON
Hibernian Hall, Reinvented
Dudley Square’s Hibernian Hall isn’t your grandma’s Irish Dance Hall anymore. These days, it boasts an eclectic fusion of poetry, contemporary dance and music and is helping draw new patrons and businesses to Roxbury’s historic square.
Economy
Mass. Unemployment Rate Drops To 8.2 Percent
State officials say the Massachusetts unemployment rate dropped by a percentage point to 8.2 percent in February as the state added more than 15,000 jobs. The rate, which fell from 8.3 percent in January, remains below the national average of 8.9 percent.
This Weekend
A Litany O' Fun For St. Patrick's Weekend
St. Patrick's Day is upon us, and everyone wants to make the most of the early Spring festivities. Here are some notable events going on in Boston to celebrate the city's Irish heritage.
Government
Lawmakers Take Up Parole Reform At Emotional Hearing
Massachusetts lawmakers are taking up potential reforms to the state’s parole system. An at-times emotional hearing followed the December shooting death of Woburn police officer John Maguire, allegedly at the hands of a career criminal who was out on parole.
GREATER BOSTON
Strangely Quiet, N.H. Waits For Primary Season
With the New Hampshire presidential primary less than a year away, Manchester should be bustling. But right now, it’s relatively quiet. Would-be nominees have been reluctant to dive in — and the Granite State is getting restless.
Boston
Replacing Turner, Tito Jackson Wins City Council Spot
Tito Jackson will replace Chuck Turner as the city councilor for Boston’s District 7. Jackson takes the helm of a district that's hurting, hit by high levels of violence last year and still wounded from the loss of two prominent lawmakers, Turner and Dianne Wilkerson, both convicted in federal corruption trials.
WGBH SPECIAL REPORT
The Falmouth Experience: Complete Series
Some residents of Falmouth, Mass. say they're suffering headaches, insomnia and depression because of a 400-foot tall town-owned wind turbine that began operating there last year. Most scientists say wind turbines don't cause health problems, but the experience of residents has strengthened anti-wind sentiment in the region.
Local Politics
DeLeo Lays Out Probation Overhaul Plan
Massachusetts House Speaker Robert DeLeo is proposing that the state's troubled Probation Department overhaul its hiring practices in an effort to put an end to the patronage practices found rampant there.
Health Care
Report Offers New Recommendations For End-Of-Life Care
Massachusetts doctors and policy-makers are calling for new guidelines on end-of-life care, specifically calling for doctors to discuss palliative and hospice treatments with their patients.
Boston
Two Candidates, Two Legacies In District 7 Election
On Tuesday, District 7 residents will vote in a special election to fill the seat of former city councilman Chuck Turner. The two candidates, Tito Jackson and Cornel Mills, are making their final cases before the vote.
This Week On Beacon Hill
State Considers Parole Hires, Reforms
Action on Beacon Hill this week will focus on changes in the Bay State's troubled parole oversight system, with confirmation hearings on the governor's nominees for the embattled body followed by hearings on bills for its reform.
Boston Symphony Orchestra
The Future Of The BSO
MARK VOLPE ON THE SEARCH PROCESSMARK VOLPE ON LEVINE'S RESIGNATION
LISTEN: THE CALLIE CROSSLEY SHOW
Local Politics
African-American Union Leaders Rally At State House
A coalition of African-American union leaders from around the state rallied at the Massachusetts State House on Thursday in support of workers' rights. MASS. DEMONSTRATORS WEIGH IN ON WIS. STANDOFF
CLIMATIDE
The Falmouth Experience
Complaints about a turbine in Falmouth are raising the possibility that one bad experience could jeopardize Patrick’s state-wide push for wind energy.
Framingham
DA Rules Framingham Police Death Accidental
The family of a 68-year-old Framingham man shot and killed by police while unarmed in his home is considering asking the federal government to investigate the incident, after a District Attorney's report released Wednesday ruled the shooting an accident. THE STAMPS CASE: 'TRAGEDY BEYOND MEASURE'
WGBH SPECIAL REPORT
The Falmouth Experience: The Green Debate
The effort to install land-based wind turbines on Cape Cod has slowed, largely because of opposition to a 400-foot tall turbine that was installed last spring in Falmouth.
The Emily Rooney Show
Roundtable: NPR CEO Steps Down
The media world is reeling after news of NPR CEO Vivian Schiller's hasty exit from her post. Jay Rosen, Al Tompkins and James Poniewozik joined The Emily Rooney Show to offer their analysis of a chain of events that began with Juan Williams' firing and continues through Schiller's resignation.
Energy
The Falmouth Experience: Flickering Light
Residents in the town of Falmouth say that a nearly 400-foot wind turbine has severely impacted their quality of life. They talk about noise issues, but sound isn’t the only thing generating discontent. There also are complaints about a phenomenon called ‘shadow flicker’.
Boston
Obama: Boston School Is National Reform Model
President Obama gave an upbeat speech in Boston today, lauding TechBoston Academy for its achievements in education — and emphasizing his commitment to education investment as Congress scales up efforts to cut the nation's budget deficit.
Local Politics
Mass. Unions Say Plan Balances Health Costs, Bargaining Rights
Massachusetts public employee unions outlined a proposal on Monday they say will save cities and towns tens of millions of dollars in health care costs — all while preserving collective bargaining rights.
WGBH SPECIAL REPORT
The Falmouth Experience: Sick From The Noise
Some residents of Falmouth say they’re feeling sick from the sounds coming from a large, town-owned wind turbine. While turbines are not silent, those claims are often controversial.
This Week On Beacon Hill
Patrick's Trade Mission Begins
Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick arrives in Tel Aviv on Monday for the start of a trip that the administration says will highlight the state's innovation-based industries abroad. While he's away, President Obama swings by the Bay State to stump for his education agenda.
Framingham
DA Will Release Details On Framingham Death
The Middlesex County District Attorney's office this week reveals the findings of a two-month long investigation into the fatal shooting of an unarmed man his Framingham home. The case has raised questions about racial profiling and the use of force.
WGBH SPECIAL REPORT
The Falmouth Experience: Life Under The Blades
Some residents of Falmouth say a wind turbine installed last year has changed their lives — and not for the better. This week, WGBH’s Sean Corcoran explores all sides of the issue in a special series, The Falmouth Experience: The Trouble with One Town’s Turbine.
Business
No Merger For Harvard Pilgrim, Tufts Health Plan
Two of the state's biggest health insurers have called off talks of a merger. In an email to staff obtained by WGBH, Tufts Health Plan CEO Jim Roosevelt said a review found it would be "ultimately too complex" to merge with Harvard Pilgrim.
Local Politics
Mass. Tea Party: Tone It Down!
The Tea Party has come in for its share of criticism for inflammatory talk. But now, calls to tone down the political rhetoric are coming from the Tea Party -- which liberal activists call "ironic."
Local Politics
State Dems Vote Down Independent Redistricting Commission
Democrats in the Massachusetts House Wednesday defeated a Republican-led effort to set up an independent commission to redraw the state’s political map.
Boston
Boston Pushes For Bill Russell Statue
Unlike Ted Williams and Bobby Orr, there’s no statue of Celtics Great Bill Russell in Boston. But now the mayor, the city council and even President Obama himself are pushing to change that.
Music
BSO's Volpe Hopes There's Still A Role For Levine
Maestro James Levine is stepping down as the music director of the Boston Symphony Orchestra in order to better deal with the health issues that have kept the storied conductor off the podium for much of the past year.
REMEMBRANCES
'We Need People Like Him Every Day'
The Harvard community — and people the world over — is mourning the death of Reverend Peter Gomes, the man who ran the university's Memorial Church for over forty years. He died Monday night at 68 years of age.
The Emily Rooney Show
Bryant: Race Was Factor In Weekend Abuse Arrest
Sportswriter Howard Bryant is defending himself against allegations of domestic abuse this weekend. He tells WGBH's Emily Rooney that witnesses and police overreacted to an argument he had with his wife over the weekend -- and that race may be a factor in his subsequent arrest.
Boston
BPS School Closures Spark Civil Rights Complaint
A coalition of lawyers and educators have filed a federal civil rights complaint against the Boston Public Schools, alleging a recent school closure plan discriminates against the city’s Black and Latino students and parents.
Education
16 New Charter Schools Approved For Mass.
State education officials approved plans for 16 new charter schools Monday, significantly expanding the number of charter schools in some of the state’s lowest-performing districts.
This Week On Beacon Hill
Charter Schools, Redistricting On The Docket This Week
While the governor continues his trip to Washington, DC this week, the state's board of education will announce its picks for new charter schools. Legislative redistricting and spending bill analysis are on the docket on Beacon Hill.
Local Politics
Union Supporters Rally At State House
A nationwide demonstration of unity with Wisconsin's public sector employees -- currenty in a standoff with the state's governor over their collective bargaining rights -- took place over the weekend, drawing a crowd of workers and supporters to the State House in Boston.
Education
High Scores, Participation Draw Attention To Lynn Charter School
On Monday, the Massachusetts Board of Education will announce its picks for the state's newest charter schools. One of them could be a KIPP school -- part of a national network of charter schools that says its already seeing results at its existing school in Lynn.
Art & Design
A 'Floating' Expansion For The Gardner
The Museum of Fine Arts isn’t the only Boston museum with a major expansion. Just across the park from the MFA, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum has been building its own extension. The opening is about a year away, but Jared Bowen was allowed in for first television tour.
Education
Harvard Brings Back Early Admission
Students applying to Harvard College will once again have the option of knowing early whether they got in. Harvard is rebooting its early-admissions program after eliminating it in 2007 due to concerns it wasn't accessible to low-income students.
Government
Mass. Terror Suspect Awaits Bail Decision
A Massachusetts man accused of taking part in a terror plot to kill Americans went to court is seeking bail. At a court hearing on Wednesday, supporters described him as a peaceful man with a right to free speech, but prosecutors said he is dangerous.
CLIMATIDE
Will We Be Eating Fish In 2050?
Humans are pummeling the ocean with a powerful one-two punch of fishing and climate change that could, in a matter of decades, make the large fish we love to eat, like cod, tuna and salmon, a thing of the past.
RHODE ISLAND
Ousted Central Falls Mayor Defends Job
The former mayor of Central Falls, R.I. says he was illegally removed from his job last summer by a state-appointed receiver looking into the financial crisis that has gripped the city.
89.7 WGBH
Civil Legal Aid In Danger, Advocates Say
Massachusetts attorneys are rallying lawmakers to preserve funding for civil legal aid to poor residents. On Tuesday, over 300 lawyers rallied at the State House, worried lawmakers might try to cut legal services for the poor in order to help close a $1.5 billion budget shortfall.
REMEMBRANCES
Remembering Aloyce Beth DuVal Deare
Friends and colleagues are mourning the death of A. Beth DuVal Deare, the award-winning former producer of WGBH's "Say Brother." Deare died in a fire in Newton on Monday. Share your memories of Deare.
J-Squared
Vacation Week Tips For Tots From J Squared
How do you keep the kids occupied during school vacation week and stay sane at the same time? Jan Saragoni and Jared Bowen offer up some family-friendly, school vacation week ideas.
This Week On Beacon Hill
Lobbying, Protesting Takes Spotlight On Beacon Hill
Schoolchildren aren’t the only ones off this week. There are no formal sessions planned in the House or Senate. For the most part, Massachusetts lawmakers are staying in their districts and tending the home fires, although there are some hearings around the state on Governor Deval Patrick’s budget blueprint.
Health Care
Mixed Reaction To Patrick's Health Care Reform Bill
Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick is filing a bill Thursday that aims to reduce health care spending by changing the way doctors and hospitals get paid. Most insurers and health care providers reacting to the bill are positive, but cautious.
Health Care
Gov. Lays Out Health Care Reform Plan
Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick is filing long-awaited legislation that aims to rein in the spiraling costs of health insurance by encouraging health care providers to move to the global payment system, in which doctors would get paid a set amount of money every year for each patient they care for.
99.5 All Classical
Ben Roe Named Managing Director of Classical Services
Art & Design
Artist Elevates Everyday Lists, Waste At DeCordova
For its newest show, the deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum singles out Boston conceptual artist Rachel Perry Welty. From very personal medical records to wrong numbers to fruit stickers, her canvas is broad, but the ideas sharp.
89.7 WGBH
Despite Skepticism, Patrick Admin. Says Budget Could Save $1 B
The Patrick administration is defending the governor's budget proposal. Gov. Deval Patrick's budget chief, Jay Gonzalez, was in the hot seat on Wednesday during a hearing before the House's and Senate's Ways and Means Comittees.
CLIMATIDE
On The Upside, Coastal Erosion Reveals History
An above-average winter storm season has taken a toll on the Cape’s shoreline. But that can have its advantages.Every so often, the wave action reveals a bit of Cape Cod’s history.
Boston
Jackson, Mills Will Vie To Replace Turner
Tito Jackson and Cornell Mills emerged as the winners of the primary in the special election to fill the City Council seat left open by Chuck Turner.
89.7 WGBH
In Bay State, $20 B In Unfunded Retiree Health Costs
A new study says the 50 largest cities in the Bay State owe $20 billion in existing and future retiree health care costs — and they have no plan to pay it down. READ THE STUDY
Technology
At MIT, The Jeopardy Machine Is Personal
Wednesday night is the much-anticipated final round of the quiz show Jeopardy, in which Watson, a computer, competes against the two greatest champions in the show's history. The contest has generated a special kind of excitement at MIT.
Boston
Boston Divided On Condoms In BPS
A group of students is pushing for the increased availability of condoms in Boston Public Schools. Some advocates think the popularity of hyper-sexual television shows like Skins makes this a good time to step up sex ed. -- but many are opposed to condoms being available in schools.
89.7 WGBH
Obama's Budget Is Mixed Bag For Massachusetts
The president's $3.7 billion budget cuts much-needed heating aid for the cold Northeast, but it includes continued spending that could help the state's academic and tech sectors.
89.7 WGBH
DOJ Will Review DJ Henry's Death
A New York grand jury has declined to indict police officers in the shooting death of 20-year-old Danroy Henry. The Pace University football player from Easton, Massachusetts, was shot by a police officer in Westchester County on October 17, as he drove away from a restaurant in a New York City suburb.
Food
Farmer's Markets Aren't Just For Summer Anymore
Winter farmer's markets are multiplying across New England -- with new markets popping up in Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Connecticut. They give customers a chance to eat fresh, local produce year-round -- and provide much-needed winter income for farmers.
This Week On Beacon Hill
Lawmakers Look At Budget; National Grid Under Scrutiny
Action in Massachusetts politics this week will focus on the state budget and a tussle over unemployment insurance rates.
Boston
Boston-Area Egyptians Look Ahead With Resolve
Egyptians living in the Boston area this weekend joined their countrymen in processing the joy, challenges and questions left behind by Hosni Mubarak's departure from the Egyptian presidency on Friday.
Boston
In Boston, Egyptians Celebrate Mubarak's Departure
Egyptians in Boston are celebrating resignation of Hosni Mubarak. Amira Hussein grew up in Cairo, but has lived in Boston for four years while she works on a Ph. D. at Boston University. Walking through the city, she was positively jubilant.
CRITICAL MASS: ADAM REILLY ON POLITICS
The Gov.'s Council: An Existential Drama?
Calls are mounting for the Governor's Council to be eliminated, because many think it's an antequated, do-nothing body. So it may not be a coincidence that the Council has been making life more difficult for Gov. Deval Patrick.
Local Politics
Senate Moves To Freeze Unemployment Tax For Third Year Running
The Massachusetts Senate wants to freeze the state's unemployment insurance rate — the tax paid by employers to cover the cost of jobless benefits — for the third year in a row.
Local Politics
Gov. Patrick Will Lead Trade Mission To Britain, Israel
Gov. Deval Patrick is off to to Israel and England next month, leading a trade mission he says will focus on growing businesses and jobs in the state’s innovation sector.
Local Politics
Gov. Patrick Considered Resigning
Governor Deval Patrick's tenure — now beginning its second term — might have been only weeks long. That's because the governor considered resigning shortly after he took office, according to his soon-to-be-released memoir.
Local Politics
Budget Cuts Could Endanger Services For High-Risk Youth
With state budget cuts looming, advocates are trying to prevent proposed cuts to the state's child welfare system. ADVOCATES PUSH FOR ALZHEIMER'S GROUP
Local Politics
Candidates Vie For Empty Council Seat In Turner's Shadow
The candidates vying to fill the City Council seat previously held by Chuck Turner met for a spirited forum on Tuesday night.
Health Care
Advocates Push For Alzheimer's Group On Beacon Hill
Advocates for Alzheimer's patients and their families are pushing for new legislation that would create a specialized group within the Executive Office of Elder Affairs to coordinate the state’s approach to the disease.
Boston
Election For Turner's Seat Will Continue
A federal judge has ruled that Chuck Turner will not be able to stop the special election to fill his now-empty seat on the City Council, clearing the way for next week's primary election for the District 7 City Council Seat.
This Week On Beacon Hill
Parole, Pension, Anti-Bullying On Docket This Week
We take look at what's coming up this week in state politics. This week, MBTA board members wil take key votes. A slew of bills, ranging from health care cost control measures to probation overhaul, are on the docket in the Legislature.
WEATHER
Weekend Snow Could Bring More Roof Collapses
By Friday afternoon, the Massachusetts Emergency Management Emergency Association (MEMA) reported almost 100 collapses of roofs and other structures resulting from snow and moisture piled on by this week's two-day storm.
89.7 WGBH
DeLeo Rejects Fees In Patrick's Budget
Massachusetts House Speaker Robert Deleo says he will keep new fees and taxes out of the House budget -- which means he's rejecting the new fees in Gov. Patrick's budget proposal.
CLIMATIDE
Setting Catch Limits With Limited Information
At the heart of fisheries management is a delicate balancing act – weighing the needs of fishermen against those of fish. Unfortunately, managers often don’t have the quantity or quality of data one would wish for.
The Emily Rooney Show
Amy Correia: Back Home In Massachusetts
Folk artist Amy Correia joined Steve Almond on The Emily Rooney Show to play her famous blend of folk, blues and soul -- and to talk about what it's like to move back to Massachusetts after a decade living in New York and LA.
WEATHER
Latest Storm Further Buries State Snow Removal Budget
With more than two months of winter left to go, Massachusetts has already blown through its $58 billion snow removal budget for the entire season. The latest bout of winter weather has the commonwealth scrambling to come up with new cleanup funds.
UPDATED
Barney Frank Will Seek Re-Election
U.S. Rep. Barney Frank, who has served Massachusetts' 4th Congressional District for almost 20 years, announced his intention to run for re-election on Thursday. The news ends speculation that Frank might retire due to upcoming redistricting in which Massachusetts will lose a seat in the House.
Boston
Temperature Drop Makes Roads Icy
A sudden drop in temperature is making for a messy afternoon commute. Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick is urging drivers to take extreme caution.
LOCAL BUSINESS
In Davis Square, Businesses Weather Snow-Related Downturn
On the heels of the holidays, the winter months tend to be slow for restaurants. But season that with a batch of snowstorms and, in the words of one restaurateur, it’s a killer. But some restaurants are trying to take advantage of the snow -- and succeeding.
Boston
What To Do With The Snow?
Parts of New England will have gotten almost 20 inches of new snow by the end of this week -- and that's on top of about 60 inches that had already fallen. What to do with all the white stuff? State Sen. Jack Hart says it's time to dump it into the harbor. STORM COULD BRING 'FLASH-FREEZING'
UPDATED
Storm Could Bring 'Flash-Freezing'
The second part of a two-day winter storm is bringing sleet and freezing rain to New England, prompting officials to warn of icy roads and roof collapses.
Local Politics
Court Won't Dismiss Any Charges Against DiMasi
When former Massachusetts House Speaker Sal DiMasi goes to court next April, he's facing the full list of charges brought against him. That's the decision a U.S. district court judge handed down last Friday, deflating DiMasi's hopes that some parts of the corruption case against him would be dismissed.
The Emily Rooney Show
Back From Egypt, Mass. Man Waits To See Sons
Manchester's Colin Bower is trying to get his sons back from Egypt after his ex-wife allegedly kidnapped them in 2009. Bower watched millions of people take to the streets of Cairo this weekend, protesting the 30-year-rein of their president, as he waited fruitlessly to visit his sons.
Race & Ethnicity
New Exhibition Presents Race As Cultural, Not Biological
Race has existed long in our nation’s history—employed as a tool for law-making, social division and much worse. But a new show at the Museum of Science, called ‘Race: Are We So Different?’ asks us to consider why.
Local Politics
New State House Leadership Gets Started
A new team of leaders in the Massachusetts House gets to work Monday after House Speaker Robert DeLeo brought a major shakeup to his inner circle during a closed-door meeting at the State House on Friday.
Weather & National Disasters
Towns In The Red After Too Much White
It’s not even midway into the winter season, but communities around the region are already maxing out their snow budgets.
WEATHER
After Another Storm, It's Shovel Vs. Snowplow
Although snow from Thursday morning’s storm has long stopped falling, the foot of white stuff that dropped from the sky overnight is still clogging up roads and sidewalks – and leading to a bit of a contest between shovelers and snowplows.
WEATHER
Snow Leaves Transit Delays, Closings
A winter storm that dumped heavy snow across the East Coast overnight left travel delays, scattered power outages and school closings and delays Thursday morning.
Local Politics
Two Mass. Prisons May Close
You'd expect the closure of two state prisons to be big news, but the possibility leaked in Wednesday in remarkably low-key fashion. After the governor's press conference on his 2012 budget, Administration and Finance Secretary Jay Gonzalez mentioned two coming prison shut-downs.
WEATHER
Snow Expected To Snarl PM Commute
Yes, again. A snow storm is expected to sweep through the area beginning late Wednesday afternoon, dumping heavy snow on the roads just in time for the evening commute.
Local Politics
Harvard Government Students Grade SOTU Address
As President Obama addressed the nation Tuesday night during his second State Of The Union speech, about 75 students gathered at Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government Wednesday night to watch.
Boston
Turner Sentenced To Three Years In Prison
Ex.-City Councilor Chuck Turner has been sentenced to serve three years in prison after his conviction on corruption charges in October.
Local Politics
Senate Bill Outlines Proposed Parole Reforms
A bipartisan group of Massachusetts senators is calling for reform of the state's parole system following the fatal shooting of a Woburn police officer, allegedly by a violent career criminal out on parole.
WEATHER
Record Cold Freezes Northeast
Most of Massachusetts is under wind-chill warnings or advisories Monday, as an Arctic high-pressure system brings temperatures well below zero across the Northeast.
RECOGNIZING BRUCE
Update: Cambridge Gallery Shows Work Of Bruce Stuart
Drawings by the Vietnam veteran Bruce Stuart, who lived on the streets of Harvard Square for 10 years, are being exhibited at an art gallery in Harvard Square.
Human Trafficking
AG Calls For Human Trafficking Law
Attorney General Martha Coakley is calling for passage of legislation that would outlaw human trafficking for sex and other forced labor. Massachusetts is currently one of only five states without comprehensive human trafficking legislation.
WGBH Local News
Study Finds Renters' Worries Impacts Health
A study released in Boston Thursday finds that falling behind on rent has a significant impact on health. Health and housing advocates are calling on the state to provide additional funding to help families stay in their homes. WGBH's Sarah Birnbaum reports.
RECOGNIZING BRUCE
A Home For Bruce And His Art
After ten years of homelessness, Bruce Stuart has a show in a Cambridge art gallery, but he's not sure he wants to be recognized. His subsequent disappearance worried friends and locals who were used to seeing him around -- until they found him in a home of his own.
Boston
WGBH Special Report: Recognizing Bruce
WGBH's Phillip Martin profiles a veteran who lived on the streets of Cambridge for 10 years -- but it's not just a story of homelessness. It is also about a man who has lived a life of both privilege and deprivation. It is a story about unheralded artistry. And it is about the acknowledgement of individuals who have grown accustomed to being invisible and unknown.
Government
Council Digs Into Duffly At SJC Confirmation Hearing
Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court Nominee Fernande Duffly got a bumpy reception at her confirmation hearing on Wednesday. DUFFLY'S SJC NOMINATION BREAKS RACIAL BARRIER
RECOGNIZING BRUCE
Street Life's Challenges Endured Through Art
Bruce Stuart lived without a home in Harvard Square for about 10 years. He said his art -- and an unexpected friendship -- got him through those days as the dangers of street life threatened his wellbeing.
WGBH SPECIAL REPORT
Recognizing Bruce: A Man Without A Home
Bruce Stuart has lived on the streets of Harvard Square for about 10 years. But his story is not about homelessness. It is about unheralded artistry and the acknowledgement of individuals who have grown accustomed to being invisible and unknown. Part one of a three-part series.
BEACON HILL
Patrick Proposes Pension Overhaul
Gov. Deval Patrick filed legislation Tuesday to reform the state’s public employee pension system, saying the reforms will save the state billions of dollars.
WEATHER
Snow, Sleet Make For Slippery Mass. Roads
A winter storm -- the second in a week -- is blanketing Massachusetts with snow, sleet and freezing rain, creating dangerous road conditions around the state as Tuesday evening's commute looms.
TRANSPORTATION
Commuters Quietly Pleased With MBTA Experiment
But the MBTA is piloting a program to give commuters a little solace from all this noise. They're marking off certain cars on the commuter rail as quiet cars. And as the program wraps up its second week, it's getting rave reviews from riders.
Education
New UMass President Brings Years Of Public University Experience
The University of Massachusetts has a new leader. The board of trustees has selected Robert Caret, the current president of Towson University, to replace departing UMass president Jack Wilson. FINANCIAL CRISIS: CARET'S FIRST TASK
POSTCARD FROM JAMAICA PLAIN
In JP, Social Networking Helps Neighbors Dig Out
An experiment in Boston's Jamaica Plain neighborhood this week brought Web 2.0 together with the age-old task of shoveling, using Google Maps, text messaging and a tailor-made social network to dispatch shoveling volunteers around the neighborhood.
Boston
Patrick: Major Changes For Parole Board
Gov. Deval Patrick is calling for major changes to the state's Parole Board after a review of the board's decision to release repeat offender Dominc Cinelli revealed multiple institutional failures.
Education
UMass Officials Hope To Pick New President Thursday
Officials at the University of Massachusetts are optimistic that they'll select a new president by the end of the day Thursday. They say they're looking at several serious candidates with academic backgrounds -- but they want to make sure their pick can think creatively about the budget crisis facing the university.
WEATHER
Outages, Cancelations Linger In Wake Of Snowstorm
Emergency crews and homeowners around Massachusetts are working to shake-off the aftereffects of a snowstorm that knocked out power to 100,000 residents, kept all flights from going in and out of Logan Airport, pushed down branches and trees and caused thousands of school and workplaces to be closed.
WEATHER
Gov. Declares State Of Emergency In Mass
Tens of thousands of Massachusetts residents are without power as a blizzard blankets the state with wet, heavy snow. Schools and businesses are closed across the state, but some people are still heading to work, by road or by MBTA.
Health Care
Family Takes On Mass. Health Care Mandate
One of the central points of debate over national health care reform is the universal health care mandate. Massachusetts already has one -- and one family is taking the state to court over their fine for not having coverage.
Boston
50 Years Later, 'City On A Hill' Speech Resounds
Massachusetts met a new Kennedy on Tuesday, when they gathered to commemorate the 50th anniversary of John F. Kennedy's "City On A Hill" speech.
WEATHER
Nor'easter Will Bring Heavy Snowfall, High Winds To Mass.
A blizzard expected to blow through Massachusetts Wednesday could dump up to 18 inches of snow on some parts of the state, snarling both morning and evening commutes. Dozens of schools are already closed because of the storm.
Local Politics
At The State House, Lawmakers Reflect On Security
Flags are flying at half-staff outside the State House in observation of the attempted assassination of Arizona Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords as lawmakers reflect on their own security concerns. LAWMAKERS WEIGH SECURITY, ACCESSIBILITY
Government
Tsongas: Shooting Puts Democracy At Risk
When Rep. Niki Tsongas learned Rep. Gabrielle Giffords had been shot while meeting with constituents in Tuscon, she was holding a similar meeting of her own. Now she's worried about what happens when people don't feel safe meeting with their representatives.
Local Politics
Mass. Congressmen Hope For Giffords' Recovery
The Massachusetts colleagues of Rep. Gabrielle Giffords are expressing shock and sadness after she and nineteen others were shot in Tuscon this weekend.
WGBH Local News
MBTA GM: No Fare Hikes This Year
MBTA officials have started the process of trying to close a more than $120 million budget deficit they’re facing in the next fiscal year. General Manager Richard Davey is assuring riders that there are no immediate plans to raise fares -- but the T is considering other proposals.
Health Care
Beth Israel Chief Resigns
The chief of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, one of Boston's largest hospitals, is stepping down.
Basic Black
Changes To The Black Political Landscape In 2011
Basic Black moves to a new night on WGBH 2, Fridays at 7:30pm, beginning Jan 14.
Health Care
Mass. Doctors Weary Of Medicare 'Meltdown'
Low reimbursement rates have already prompted some doctors to opt out of treating Medicare patients. In Massachusetts, rising business costs are compounding the problem.
Local Politics
State House, Senate Kick Off Session
The governor is awaiting the formal start of his second term with his inauguration Thursday afternoon — but for Massachusetts' legislators, the year has already begun.
Local Politics
Gov. Patrick Opens His Second Term
It's official: With the completion of his inauguration ceremony, Gov. Deval Patrick's second term has begun. Patrick's inaugural speech touted the successes of his first administration and called on the state to approach its economic challenges with a mixture of optimism and a willingness to make difficult choices.
Economy
Shaws Will Shutter Five Stores
The Shaws grocery store chain is closing five New England Stores. It's the latest in a string of major retail closures across the state.
Education
Murphy: Streamline BPS Transport Costs
Boston's new City Council president is calling on the Boston Public Schools to cut transportation costs.
BEACON HILL
Mass. GOP Says They'll Make A Mark On New Session
Wednesday begins a new legislative session on Beacon Hill. As Gov. Patrick swears in the members of the 187th Massachusetts Legislature, the chamber will look a little less blue than in recent years.
GREATER BOSTON
Lawmakers Push For 'Melissa's Law'
After a Woburn policeman was allegedly shot to death by a "career criminal" out on parole, lawmakers are pushing for the passage of a decade-old bill some say would have prevented the suspect from leaving prison.
Education
Massachusetts School Steps Back From College 'Rat Race'
With college application deadlines looming, high schools are looking for ways to reduce student stress. Some schools have done away with Advanced Placement classes, while others are focusing on teaching kids how to handle the stress.
89.7 WGBH
Boston Website Helps Users Find Government Docs — Legally
Wikileaks has dominated news headlines by releasing thousands of confidential government documents online. In Massachusetts, a new website is going about government transparency in an entirely different way.
Local Voices
Signs And Wonders
WGBH commentator Carlo Rotella reflects on what led him to a life of writing.
Local Voices
The Good, The Bad And The Funny Of 2010
The last week of the year brings countless "Year in Review" lists -- but this one is a little different. We asked local comedian and stand-up comic Jimmy Tingle to give us his own roundup of 2010's highlights. Here's what he chose. MORE LOCAL VOICES
Local Politics
Gov. Will Cut Legislative Salaries
There is little opposition to Gov. Deval Patrick's plan to shrink the paychecks of the state's legislators -- except for some lawmakers and watchdogs who say the cuts aren't big enough.
Energy
Officials May Lease More Local Waters For Wind Farms
The state and federal governments are testing the waters for interest in erecting more wind turbines off the islands of Martha's vineyard and Nantucket.
Art & Design
Somerville Artist Paints Spacey First Night Button
Local painter Scott Listfield’s artwork is featured on this year’s First Night button, the admissions ticket for the New Years Eve festivities.
Weather & National Disasters
Blizzard Piles Snow, Delays On New England
This week's blizzard may be over, but the storm's impact is lingering as people throughout New England deal with snowdrifts, flight delays and power outages left by the blizzard that dumped almost 20 inches of snowfall in some areas of the state.
Local Politics
Judge Hears Extra Testimony Against Wilkerson
During what was meant to be sentencing day for former state Sen. Dianne Wilkerson, a U.S. district judge heard testimony from a developer who said she solicited bribes from him. The prosecution hoped this would increase Wilkerson's sentence -- but the judge didn't seem convinced.
Local Politics
SJC Nomination Breaks Another Racial Barrier
Gov. Deval Patrick on Tuesday nominated appeals court judge Nan Duffly to be the next associate justice of the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court. Duffly is Asian-American.
Local Politics
Representatives Line Up For Redistricting Battle
Members of Massachusetts' 10-person congressional delegation are staking claims to their seats after the news that the state will only have nine seats when this term is over.
Education
Teachers' Union Would Link Evaluations With MCAS Scores
The Massachusetts Teachers' Union, the largest such union in the state, is endorsing the use of student test scores to assess teachers' performance. They unveiled their plan for the new evaluation system at a state Board of Education meeting on Tuesday. READ THE PROPOSAL
Local Politics
Mass. Loses Congressional Seat
The state of Massachusetts will lose one congressional seat as the seats in the 435-member House are reapportioned to reflect population changes shown by the 2010 Census.
City Council Roundup
Big Changes For City Council As Year Ends
The race for Chuck Turner's empty seat on the Boston City Council begins as the body's president ends his term and a new member settles in.
Economy
Housing Nightmare Upends Family, Enriches Investor
Massachusetts lenders filed more than 22,000 foreclosure petitions in 2010. When one immigrant family lost their Boston home, they had a rude awakening: The bank auctioned off the family's home to a private investor at a fire-sale price.
Boston
Back On His Feet, Menino Defends School Closures
Parents are reeling from the Boston Public School Committee's controversial vote Wednesday night that will close nine schools and merge several others. Mayor Thomas M. Menino, now back on his feet after two hospital stays, is defending the move. MAP: SCHOOLS SLATED FOR CLOSURE
Energy
Cape Wind Vs. Deepwater Wind
A side-by-side comparison of two proposed offshore wind projects in our backyard: Cape Wind and the Deepwater Wind Energy Center, which would be the largest offshore wind farm inthe U.S.
Local Politics
Outgoing Rep. Delahunt Supports Tax Compromise
Outgoing Rep. Bill Delahunt is ending is 14 years in Congress with a vote for the Obama-GOP tax compromise. He told WGBH's Emily Rooney why.
89.7 WGBH
Students Face Charges After DJ Henry Shooting
Four Pace University students are due in court Thursday to faces charges they incurred during the same incident that led to the shooting death of Danroy "DJ" Henry earlier this fall.
Education
BPS Votes To Close 9 Schools
Amid jeering and booing from angry parents, teachers and students, the Boston School Committee voted unanimously Wednesday night to approve superintendent Carol Johnson’s proposal to consolidate school resources through closures and mergers.
GREATER BOSTON
In Cambridge, A Cool Reception To Zuckerberg's Honor
Facebook creator Mark Zuckerberg is TIME's 2010 person of the year. Although the 26-year-old created Facebook in Harvard Square, many locals don't think he was the right pick.
Government
Mass. Tax Revenue Will Grow -- But Not Enough
Economists are predicting Massachusetts revenue will grow by as much as $700 million next year, a 5 percent gain over 2010.
CUTS PREDICTED AS MASS. FACES $2B GAP
Boston
School Closures Up For Vote; Parents Wait
The Boston Public School Committee votes Wednesday proposal to shutter nine of Boston's schools could save up to $10 million -- but some parents and teachers say the disruption to the students wouldn't be worth the savings.
Best Of 2010
Best Books of 2011
Local Politics
DeLeo: Casinos Will Be On The Docket
House Speaker Robert Deleo says casinos are on the agenda in the upcoming legislative session after a bill failed at the last minute this past summer.
WGBH SPECIAL REPORT: THE LAST RESORT
The State House
$2 B Budget Gap Looms; Major Cuts Anticipated
The state Legislature may be out of session – but a looming $2 billion budget gap for the next fiscal year is worrying lawmakers and interest groups across Beacon Hill, who will be talking dollars during State House hearings on Tuesday.
GREATER BOSTON
At UMass, An American DREAM On Hold
Deivid Ribeiro earned a 4.0 from Cape Cod Community College and now studies physics at UMass. But unless the DREAM Act passes in the lame duck Congressional session, he -- and thousands of other undocumented students -- could face deportation.
Religion
The Mosque Next Door
On the eve of the ninth anniversary of Sept. 11, WGBH reporter Phillip Martin reports on a controversy over the building of a mosque in Boston.
Local Politics
Intriguing, Intense Race Gives Patrick Second Term
WGBH's senior reporter Phillip Martin took a look at some of the highlights of the 2010 gubernatorial contest that produced last night’s results.
Education
Report: Health Care Costs Squeezing Education
A new report says hundreds of millions of dollars the state pegged for improvements to classroom education have gone instead to health-care costs for school employees.
Boston
Third Suspect Arrested In Mattapan Murders
A third suspect has been arrested in connection with the murder of four people in Mattapan earlier this year.
Boston
Food Trucks May Be Rolling Toward Boston
A proposed City Council ordinance would license up to 25 new food trucks in Boston -- and trucks could start rolling out by the summer.
Government
Ireland Confirmed As State's Chief Justice
The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court has a new chief justice. Rodrick L. Ireland, previously the court's senior associate justice, was unanimously confirmed for the position early Wednesday afternoon
Local Politics
Capuano: 'Where Is The Compromise?'
HEAR THE INTERVIEW
Government
State Leaders Push Plans For Probation Dept. Reform
The Governor and top lawmakers say they will reform the state's troubled probation department in the new year -- with parallel plans coming from both the Legislature and the Judiciary.
SJC ORDERS DISMISSAL OF PROBATION COMMISSIONER
LAWMAKERS ON THE HOT SEAT AFTER PROBATION REPORT
THE WORLD
At Upper Crust, A Good Relationship Goes Sour
Undocumented workers from Brazil helped buil a high-end pizza chain -- but what was initially a mutually beneficial relationship ended up souring amid allegations of denied pay and exploitation. PRI'S THE WORLD
Economy
Defense Spending In Mass. Rockets Upward
Defense spending in Massachusetts has tripled since 2001, bringing 115,000 jobs to the Bay State.
Environment
Scientists: Climate Change Not Sweet For Sugar Maples
Scientists at UNH say some of New England's maple leaves are less brilliant in color, and the sap is less sweet. They think these things are related -- and that climate change is the cause.
Human Trafficking
Mass. Sex Trafficking Bill Remains Stuck In Committee
Activists are calling for tougher state legislation to combat human and sex trafficking in Massachusetts. FROM WGBH: THE TRAFFICKING CRISIS IN BOSTON
MOVIOLA: SEX TRAFFICKING FILM FORUM OPENS
89.7 WGBH
Study: Boston's Minority Youth Ill-Prepared For Job Market
A new study says poor young minorities in Boston are ill-prepared for the future job market — and that could lead to a large labor pool of unemployed youth.
Boston
Boston Nightclub Under Scrutiny After Students Allege Racism
Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley is investigating allegations of racism at a Boston nightclub after a group of black Harvard and Yale students were kicked out of a pre-scheduled event there last month.
Local Politics
Brown Supports Repeal Of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell'
Massachusetts Sen. Scott Brown -- the lone Republican in the state's Congressional delegation -- supports the repeal of military's so-called "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy.
Boston
Twenty Charged In Dorchester Cocaine Ring
Boston police officials say they’ve penetrated a long-running Dorchester-based drug operation, charging 20 people Thursday with conspiracy and distribution of cocaine and crack.
Education
BPS Supt. Proposes School Closures
Boston Public Schools Superintendent Carol Johnson is expected to unveil a plan that would close, merge and move schools in an effort to close a $63 million budget gap.
Government
Probation Center Stage At SJC Chief's Confirmation Hearing
The Governor's Council is making its final considerations on State Supreme Court Chief Justice Nominee Roderick Ireland after Ireland fielded questions during a confirmation hearing Wednesday.
UPDATED
After Expulsion, Turner Vows To Fight Back
The Boston City Council voted 11-1 to expel Chuck Turner, ending his 10-year career there. Last month, Turner was convicted of federal bribery charges.
Moviola
Human Trafficking Confronted By The Power Of Images
Community activists, teachers, and survivors will gather in Cambridge, Dec. 2-5, for the Human Rights and Sexual Trafficking Film Forum.
ENVIRONMENT
State's Top Environmental Official Will Step Down
Ian Bowles, the state's top environmental official and a key player in Gov. Deval Patrick's first term in office, is stepping down from his position as secretary of energy and environmental affairs.
Local Politics
Patrick: Probation Dept. Is Isolated Problem
Patrick is defending the right of elected officials to recommend people for jobs in state government -- even though that practice is at the center of the Probation Department controversy.
Global Hit
Singer-Songwriter KT Tunstall Visits WGBH's Studios
KT Tunstall is a Scottish singer-songwriter best known for hits like "Black Horse and the Cherry Tree" and the ubiquitous "Suddenly I See." Recently, she stopped by WGBH's Fraser Performance Studio for a performance and a conversation with The World's Marco Werman.
The Emily Rooney Show
Rushdie Explores Video Games In New Novel
World-famous author Salman Rushdie discussed parenthood, Harry Potter and his new novel, Luka and the Fire of Life with WGBH's Emily Rooney.
Education
One Third Of Urban Students At-Risk For Dropping Out
More than one-third of Massachusetts eighth-graders who attended urban schools last academic year are at risk of not earning their high school diplomas, according to state education officials.
Boston
The Filene's Basement Story From Those Who Knew It Best
Local Boston filmmaker Michael Bavaro talks about his new documentary Voices from the Basement, which tells the story of retail giant and famed Boston institution Filene's Basement as told by the people who worked and shopped there.
Boston
Remember A Retail Legend
ENVIRONMENT
Scientists Track Cottontails To Save Them
Efforts are underway to save the rare New England Cottontail rabbit by creating new habitat for the species. But first, trackers have to find them.
Boston
Menino Hospitalized With Skin Infection
Boston Mayor Thomas M. Menino is out-of-commission Tuesday following a skin infection that developed while he was traveling in Italy.
Energy
State Approves National Grid Purchase Of Cape Wind
The state's Department of Public Utilities Monday approved an agreement that will allow power distributor National Grid to buy half of the electricity generated by the Cape Wind project in Nantucket Sound.
THE CALLIE CROSSLEY SHOW
Leonard Nimoy's Secret Selves
Art & Design
New Wing, New Heights For The MFA
Watch and read WGBH's complete coverage of the Museum of Fine Arts' new $504 million Art of the Americas wing.
LOCAL NEWS
Lawmakers On The Hot Seat After Probation Report
A scathing report released Thursday about the probation department is renewing concerns about corruption on Beacon Hill.
PROBATION COMMISSIONER DISMISSED
Sports
Vuvuzelas Banned From "The Game" By Harvard
Saying they would be too disruptive at this weekend's Harvard-Yale game, the plastic horns that provided the soundtrack for the World Cup have been forbidden.
Art & Design
MFA Director Picks Favorites In New Wing
Our preview of the Museum of Fine Arts’ brand new Art of the Americas wing continues with an insider’s take. MFA Director Malcolm Rogers takes Jared Bowen on a tour of his five favorite spaces.
LOCAL NEWS
SJC Orders Dismissal Of Probation Commissioner
An independent review commissioned by the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court has found the state's probation department to be systematically corrupt.
ECONOMY
Mass. May Return To Pre-Recession Job Levels By 2013
The economic outlook is precarious – but New England is weathering the tepid economy better than the rest of the country.
Art & Design
In New MFA Wing, Period Rooms Unlock History
The Museum of Fine Arts new Art of the America officially opens to the public with a free open house on Saturday. But WGBH's sneak preview continues as Jared Bowen tours the new period rooms that make a visit to the MFA even more engaging.
Economy
Boston Factory Takes Training Into Its Own Hands
Experts say the current educational system and private-sector training efforts aren't preparing workers for job opportunities. So, a metal parts factory near Boston has done something unusual to ensure its workers have the necessary training: It started its own school.
Art & Design
Expansion Brings MFA To New Heights
Greater Boston's Jared Bowen tours the new wing of the MFA ahead of its public preview, one floor at a time.
Health
Mass. Is Most Violent Northeastern State
A new report from the non-profit Massachusetts Health Council, released Tuesday morning at the State House, concludes that Massachusetts is the most violent state in the Northeast.
Local Politics
Brown Pushes For Pro-Business Policies Over Breakfast
Sen. Scott Brown, Massachusetts' lone Republican Congressional delegate, advocated for pro-business policies and job creation at a Boston Chamber of Commerce breakfast on Monday.
Arts & Entertainment
Boston Gets First Glimpse Of New MFA
Sen. Scott Brown, Rep. Michael Capuano and Mayor Menino were among those in attendance as the MFA's $500 million Art of the Americas wing was opened to its first viewings on Friday.
Arts & Entertainment
MFA Unveils $500 M Expansion
On Friday, the MFA unveils its brand new Art of the America’s wing. Greater Boston’s Jared Bowen joined Morning Edition’s Bob Seay to talk about the expansion.
The Emily Rooney Show
BPD: Homicide Increase Due To Drug Activity
Boston's murder rate is up almost 50 percent over this time last year -- and Police Commissioner Ed Davis says it's because of an up-tick in drug-related gang activity.
Boston
Suburban, Rural Foreclosures Increase In Mass.
The number of foreclosures in suburbs and rural areas is now higher than that in urban communities.
Health Care
Health Care Reform Will Soon Affect Mass. Businesses
New nursing laws and copayment-free health care services were on the agenda as businesses came together for an information session on how health care reform will impact employers in Massachusetts.
Around the Nation
In Brockton, Female Veterans Find A Home
Over the past decade, the number of female veterans who have become homeless has nearly doubled. Many are not turning to the VA for help, including Cherish Cornish, who found temporary housing from a nonprofit in Brockton.
LEGAL AFFAIRS
After Mass. Ruling, Lawsuit Challenges DOMA
A new lawsuit is challenging the 1996 Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), which bans gay marriage at the federal level. The case comes on the heels of the Massachusetts court ruling that found DOMA unconstitutional.
Politics
The End Of An Era: Goodbye, Kennedys
The golden anniversary of John F. Kennedy's 1960 election victory coincides with another Kennedy milestone: Next month, when Rhode Island Rep. Patrick Kennedy leaves office, it will be the first time in 60 years that a Kennedy will not hold elected office in the nation's capital.
GREATER BOSTON
Fallen Student's Family Pushes For Investigation
The family of a Massachusetts man shot and killed by police in New York City last month is pushing for the release of surveillance tapes that may give them more information about his death.
Health Care
In Charlestown, Venture Capital Fuels Alzheimer's Research
Groundbreaking Alzheimer's research in Charlestown is being funded not by the government, but by a group of Massachusetts venture capitalists.
The Emily Rooney Show
After Turner Conviction, City Council Moves Forward
City Councilor Chuck Turner’s refusal to resign his office despite his recent federal corruption conviction and repeated calls for his ouster may lead his City Council colleagues toward an unprecedented step: Expelling one of their own members.
Health Care
Mass. Venture Capitalists Invest In Alzheimer's Research
A small group of local business leaders who are using their proven investment techniques — and their personal fortunes — to assemble what they believe are the world's most promising researchers to slow, stop or reverse Alzheimer's Disease.
Critical Mass: Adam Reilly On Politics
The Mass. GOP Versus Itself
When you've got a bunch of big races that feel competitive, and you don't win any of them, disappointment is a natural reaction. Still, recent history suggests that the Mass. GOP's State House gains are actually pretty impressive.
Local Politics
Mass. Dems: GOTV Key To State Victories
The head of Massachusetts Democratic Party says Gov. Deval Patrick's re-election holds an important lesson for Democrats across the country.
IN ELECTIONS, MASS. GLOWS BLUE
The Emily Rooney Show
Optimistic Patrick Will Focus On Jobs
During an interview with WGBH's Emily Rooney, Gov. Deval Patrick said he's optimistic about Massachusetts' economic recovery, but plans to continue a focus on job-creation as he heads into his second term in office.
Local Politics
In Scott Brown Territory, A Rough Election Night
A funny thing happened on the way to the Scott Brown revolution: It turns out Scott Brown was the revolution.
Mass Decision 2010
As U.S. House Goes Red, Mass. Glows Blue
Democrats in the Bay State won all of Tuesday night's statewide races, bucking a national turn towards the GOP that put the U.S. House of Representatives under Republican control.
Mass Decision 2010
Cahill Wraps Up Beleaguered Run For Office
State treasurer and independent candidate for governor Timothy Cahill came in a distant third in poll results on Tuesday's election night, getting just 8 percent of the vote.
Mass Decision 2010
Patrick Wins Second Term
Gov. Deval Patrick won a second term Tuesday night, beating back voter frustration over the economy and a resurgent Republican party.
Mass Decision 2010
Keating Defeats Perry With Safe Margin
In the closely-watched 10th Congressional District race to replace retiring Congressman Bill Delahunt, Norfolk County District Attorney Bill Keating held off a strong showing by Republican Jeff Perry of Cape Cod Tuesday night in a contest that was expected to come down to the wire.
Mass Decision 2010
Mass Decision 2010: The Results
See the full results of the 2010 statewide elections.
Election Night 2010
Sounds Of Election Night
Mass Decision 2010
Record-High Turnout Expected On Election Day
Massachusetts officials are expecting more voters to turn out on Tuesday's Election Day than in any other gubernatorial election in the past 20 years.
Mass Decision 2010
State Pension, Red Sox Plates At Issue In Treasurer's Race
Democrat Steve Grossman and Republican Karyn Polito are taking aim at each other's fiscal policies -- and baseball preference -- as they close up their contest to be state Treasurer.
Health Care
Immigrants Bring Discrimination Case Over Insurance Experiment
A stopgap experiment in health insurance for legal immigrants may be a preview into the future of state-subsidized health care.
Critical Mass: Adam Reilly On Politics
Turner Sealed His Own Conviction
Chuck Turner's Friday conviction on charges related to an alleged bribery is a sad coda to his career, regardless of whether you think he was guilty.
MORE: TURNER FOUND GUILTY
Boston
At Home With The Gubernatorial Candidates
Greater Boston's Jared Bowen spent time with all four candidates for Massachusetts governor. Catch up on Jared's series of at home interviews with Jill Stein, Charlie Baker, Deval Patrick and Tim Cahill.
Mass Decision 2010
With Question 2, Affordable Housing Funds On The Line
On Nov. 2, Massachusetts voters will consider Question 2, which would repeal a law designed to increase the supply of affordable housing in Massachusetts.
MASS DECISION 2010
Campaign Snapshot: The Auditor's Race
The race for Governor has been getting all of the attention this election season, but next week, Massachusetts voters will also choose the new auditor – the state’s fiscal watchdog whose job includes rooting out fraud in government programs like Medicaid, housing and welfare. MORE MASS DECISION 2010
BLUE HILL AVENUE
Blue Hill Avenue Looks Forward
Many residents of Blue Hill Avenue point to its thriving commercial sector and new projects on the way as evidence of the community’s revitalization.
99.5 Host Notes
Cathedrals In Music
Hear musical responses to great cathedrals, and watch Building The Great Cathedrals.
BLUE HILL AVENUE
On Blue Hill Avenue, Community Abounds
A great deal of community organizing up and down Blue Hill Avenue takes place unseen and out of the glare of cameras.
Moviola
Can You Endure This Horror Movie Marathon?
The Coolidge Corner Theatre’s Annual Halloween Horror Movie Marathon promises to be a non-stop sensory overload of live music, psychic readings, popcorn, and plenty of blood and guts on the big screen. Moviola has a preview.
Live from Fraser
The Boston Chamber Music Society Plays Saint-Saëns
Mass Decision 2010
Gubernatorial Candidates Meet For Final Debate
With just one week to go before elections, the gubernatorial candidates put forth their well-honed campaign messages one last time during their final televised debate on Monday night.
BLUE HILL AVENUE
Crime -- And Solutions -- On Blue Hill Avenue
Part two of WGBH's special series, “Blue Hill Avenue, If a Street Could Speak”, looks at how some residents of these neighborhoods are responding to both the reality and the perception of crime.
PART ONE: TRUTH AND MEMORY
BLUE HILL AVENUE: IF A STREET COULD SPEAK
BLUE HILL AVENUE
Blue Hill Avenue, In Truth And Memory
During the last 50 years, this avenue has undergone dramatic changes: From Jewish neighborhoods to African American, Caribbean and Latino communities; from synagogues to churches; from kosher restaurants to those that specialize in jerked chicken.
BLUE HILL AVENUE
Blue Hill Avenue: If A Street Could Speak
Join WGBH's Phillip Martin for a closer look at Blue Hill Avenue, which connects Roxbury to Milton and the past to the present.
Fitness & Nutrition
Local Researcher Discovers Key To Smarter Marathon
A marathoning Harvard-MIT student has figured out how to calculate that awful moment when marathoners run out of gas.
Mass Decision 2010
Strip-Search Victim Speaks Out Against Perry
The woman strip-searched by a policeman while Jeff Perry was on site is criticizing the GOP Congressional candidate.
Author Interviews
Tales From A Boston Prison Library
MASS DECISION 2010
Obama, Patrick: Parallel Campaigns, Divergent Numbers
President Barack Obama and Gov. Deval Patrick have long been close friends and political allies. But a WGBH poll of the 10th Congressional District shows some voters view the two very differently.
99.5 Host Notes
Oct. 20: Benjamin Zander and the Boston Philharmonic
The conductor gives a preview of the 2010-2011 season.
NPR/PRO PUBLICA INVESTIGATION
Drug Companies Hire Troubled Doctors As Experts
Hundreds of doctors receiving payments from pharmaceutical companies have been accused of professional misconduct, were disciplined by state boards or lacked credentials as researchers or specialists.
NPR/PRO PUBLICA INVESTIGATION
Mass. Doctors Get Millions For Drug Promotion
Pharmaceutical companies seeking to promote their products have relied heavily on Harvard Medical School physicians, according to an analysis of all publicly reported industry payments to doctors. See if your doctor is one of them.
MASS DECISION 2010
In Boston, Obama Rallies Party Faithful
As Gov. Deval Patrick heads into the final stretch of campaign season, he got some help from an old friend – President Barack Obama. The President was in Boston this weekend to fire up the Democratic base and to get out the vote for Governor Patrick in what promises to be a very tight gubernatorial race.
MASS DECISION 2010
Polling The 10th: How The Numbers Break Down
Just over two weeks before Election Day, an exclusive WGBH poll of the 10th Congressional District shows a dead heat between Democratic candidate Bill Keating and Republican Candidate Jeff Perry. See how the numbers break down. WGBH POLL SHOWS DEAD HEAT IN 10TH DISTRICT
FULL POLL RESULTS
Critical Mass: Adam Reilly On Politics
Cahill Confounds After Drama-Free Debate
MASS DECISION 2010
Frank, Bielat Clash Over Foreclosure Crisis
Rep. Barney Frank faces a serious re-election challenge from the GOP's Sean Bielat. The two faced off Thursday night in a debate on WGBH's Greater Boston.
CRITICAL MASS: ADAM REILLY ON POLITICS
The Shifting Sands Of Loscocco-Gate
Emails released Wednesday by ex-aides to Tim Cahill suggest the independent candidate for governor may have misused his office as state treasurer to help his campaign. It's the latest twist in a series of events catalyzed by the defection of his running mate, Paul Loscocco.
Moviola
Conviction: A Local Tale Of Murder And Family
Moviola is WGBH's inside look at movies in and around the Hub with Jared Bowen. You hear it during Morning Edition on 89.7 WGBH. In this episode, Jared talks with the real-life subject of Tony Goldwyn’s latest film, Conviction, which opens in theaters on Friday, Oct. 15. It’s a gripping tale of murder and family ties, based on the true story of a Massachusetts brother and sister.
Critical Mass: Adam Reilly On Politics
Cahill's Lawyers Head To Court
WGBH'S Adam Reilly tweets from Norfolk Superior Court, where a hearing is scheduled on Independent Gubernatorial Candidate Tim Cahill's lawsuit against four former staffers.
READ ADAM'S TWEETS
CLIMATIDE
Slideshow: The Face Of Energy On Cape Cod
All electricity generation comes with costs. A brief tour of power sources on and around Cape Cod highlights some of the financial, environmental, and public health concerns.
CRITICAL MASS: ADAM REILLY ON POLITICS
The Gov's Race: What Now?
Whether it's a defection, a lawsuit or a counter-accusation, the governor's race has gotten confusing -- and fun to watch. Where do the candidates go from here?
MASS DECISION 2010
Loscocco Accuses Cahill Of Coordinating With Patrick
The former running mate of independent gubernatorial candidate Tim Cahill is accusing the Cahill campaign of coordinating with the Patrick campaign.
The Emily Rooney Show
As Red Sox End, Patriots Begin
Our Monday Morning QB Bob Lobel talks about the end of a disappointing Red Sox season and whether a Super Bowl apearance is in the cards for the Pats in 2010.
LISTENMASS DECISION 2010
Cahill Suit Alleges Political Sabotage
Independent gubernatorial candidate Tim Cahill on Thursday filed a lawsuit against his former top operatives, alleging they conspired with Republicans to topple his campaign.
THE CALLIE CROSSLEY SHOW
Core Skills, Not MCAS, Turned Brockton High Around
Mass Decision 2010
Wife Of Rep. Tierney Pleads Guilty To Tax Charges
The wife of Rep. John Tierney, who is up for re-election next month, pled guilty Wednesday to federal charges of helping her brother conceal income from an illegal offshore gambling business.
CRITICAL MASS: ADAM REILLY ON POLITICS
'Young Gun' Golnik Agrees With Dems... Sometimes
Greater Boston's Adam Reilly sits down with 5th Congressional District GOP candidate Jon Golnik.
Boston
In Mattapan, A 'Loss Of Innocence'
On a street corner in Mattapan Square, locals tried to come to terms with the quadruple homicide that has shaken up the city.
Critical Mass: Adam Reilly On Politics
Analysis: Cahill Will Push On
After Tim Cahill's Independent-ticket running mate Paul Loscocco dropped out of the governor's race on Friday, things were looking bleak for Cahill. But he's staying in the race -- and brings a unique persepective with him.
Local Voices
Progress For Conservatives
This November, without fanfare, Republicans are positioned to significantly boost the number of conservative women in top national offices.
MASS DECISION 2010
After Stunning Betrayal, Cahill Moves Ahead
After a rough couple of weeks in his gubernatorial campaign, independent candidate for governor Tim Cahill is pushing forth to election day with a rejiggered campaign strategy.
In Performance
Memorial Concert for Charles Ansbacher
Hear the Boston Landmarks Orchestra's memorial concert for the late Charles Ansbacher.
Wednesday, Nov. 10 at 6:30pm on 99.5 All Classical
Baseball
Center Stage: Jared Bowan talks to Ken Burns
Filmmaker Ken Burns discusses the making of Baseball: The Tenth Inning with Greater Boston's Jared Bowan. Burns discusses chronicling the significant developments of the national pastime since Baseball originally aired, including the steroid scandal and the Boston Red Sox's 2004 World Series championship.
Ken Burns
Believe Again! Ken Burns revisits Baseball
Thousands of bats, three home run records, and one "curse" have been broken since Ken Burns made his landmark 1994 PBS series Baseball. Now, Burns updates the series with The Tenth Inning. Watch the curse reserve and believe in a band of idiots all over again.
CRITICAL MASS: ADAM REILLY ON POLITICS
Coakley Gets An Opponent
One of the biggest surprises of this year's MA elections was that--despite Scott Brown's win over Martha Coakley in that hugely hyped US Senate election earlier this year--the state GOP couldn't get anyone to run against Coakley for the AG's job this fall. Until now.
CRITICAL MASS: ADAM REILLY ON POLITICS
No Free Pass For Coakley
One of the biggest surprises of this year's MA elections was that--despite Scott Brown's win over Martha Coakley in that hugely hyped US Senate election earlier this year--the state GOP couldn't get anyone to run against Coakley for the AG's job this fall.
Local Voices
A Misuse Of Freedom
Last week, three iconic American freedoms — freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and freedom of the press — collided in a nightmare scenario that could well still lead to the loss of American lives.
Local Politics
Mass Decision 2010
WGBH presents Mass Decision 2010, an in-depth look at the upcoming state elections in Massachusetts. WGBH will be covering the elections from every angle, and we want you to help shape the debate by adding your voice.
Boston
Rough Waters: Local Fishing Industry
Phillip Martin reports on how new conservation rules are affecting the lives of those in the local fishing industry.
Economy
Rough Waters: Port Clyde
Rachel Gotbaum profiles the historic fishing village of Port Clyde Maine--one of only three commercial groundfishing ports left in the state and where a group of fishermen are determined to save their fishery by trying some unorthodox ways of doing business.
Economy
Rough Waters: From "Days at Sea" to "Sectors"
To comply with federal regulations meants to restore US fish stocks to sustainable levels, new quotas were set in New England for the first time on all species of groundfish. Rachel Gotbaum examines if these rules will lead to the end or the survival of New England's fishing industry.
Economy
Rough Waters: History of Fishing Regulation
In part one of 89.7 WGBH's series on the ongoing struggles of the fishing industry in Massachusetts, Phillip Martin explores the history of Federal regulation of fishing.
Arts
Center Stage
Human Trafficking
Human Trafficking: Law Enforcement
Phillip Martin concludes his report on human and sexual trafficking with a look at how Masschusetts and Rhode Island have set up law enforcement task forces to tackle this issue.
WGBH Special Reports
Human Trafficking: The Crisis in Boston
Phillip Martin investigates how the federal and local government struggle to regulate an industry based around human and sexual trafficking.
Social Issues
Human Trafficking: Nail Salons
Phillip Martin begins his investigation into human and sexual trafficking with a look at how some New England nail salons are being used as fronts for the local sex trade.
Human Trafficking
Human Trafficking: Child Exploitation
Of all the dimensions of human trafficking, the kidnapping of children for commercial sexual exploitation is considered the most heinous. Phillip Martin investigates.
Local Voices
Grass
I confess that I’m a horrible gardener—I’ve always considered it the outdoor equivalent of doing dishes—and I don’t usually do infomercials, but brace yourself because my goal in the next 3 minutes is to convince you to buy yourself some nice new grass.
Boston
The Market
I no longer have to go to Toronto or Seattle to swoon over thick riding hood red tomatoes, large leafy deep green lettuce heads, and fish so fresh the eyes stare back at you.
Human Trafficking
Full Interview: Donna
As part of his investigation into human and sexual trafficking in Boston, Phillip Martin talks to "Donna", who as a teenager was traded into the world of prostitution.
MORE ON HUMAN TRAFFICKINGHuman Trafficking
Full Interview: Audrey Porter
Audrey Porter was a teenager when she was steered into prostitution in Boston, and stayed there for a while because of a drug habit developed on the job. Phillip Martin talks to her about her work with the organization My Life, My Choice, and her own history.
Human Trafficking
Human Trafficking: Trafficking By The Numbers
Get the facts and figures behind human and sexual trafficking in Boston and beyond.
Kids Media Matters
WGBH and Boston Promote Summer reading
WGBH’s Kids Media Matters and the City of Boston partnered this past summer to promote reading to local children. WGBH President Jon Abbott, VP for Children’s Media and Educational Programming Brigid Sullivan, and special friend Arthur joined Mayor Tom Menino at the Tadpole Playground on Boston on July 15 to announce that WGBH will give 5,000 books to the City of Boston’s ReadBoston Storymobile Program.
Foodie Blog
Wintertime Hideouts
Looking for hot food, warming drinks, and a cozy atmosphere? These venues fit the bill. Cathy Huyghe's top three choices for wintertime hideouts are below.
Foodie Blog
South End walking tour for foodies
The South End neighborhood of Boston is flush these days with street after street of destinations for lovers of food, wine, drinks, and all things culinary.
Foodie Blog
Wednesday Wine Itinerary for Boston
Not sure if you’ve noticed, but Wednesdays have become the wine lover’s highlight of the week in Boston.
Foodie Blog
Lunch with the ladies: Swanee Hunt at No. 9 Park
No. 9 Park restaurant on Beacon Hill invited ladies of its own last week with its Ladies Who Lunch series, welcoming Swanee Hunt, former US ambassador to Austria.
The Emily Rooney Show99.5 All Classical
High School Quiz Show
Swanee Hunt
No. 9 Park
Foodie Blog
Lunch (and an excellent one) at Masa in the South End
Last week I paid a visit to Masa, chef-owner Philip Aviles’ South End restaurant.
The Daily Dish
Music, dancing, and loukaniko: Greek Independence Day in Boston Common
The Daily Dish
Boston Bakes for Breast Cancer: Goodies for a cause
The thing about fundraisers is that you have to give something — cash, normally — in order to get. And what you get is often intangible: a good feeling or the sense that you’ve done something worthwhile.
The Daily Dish
High-low mix strikes edgy balance at Deep Ellum
Deep Ellum manages to balance high and low — whether you’re talking about the items on the menu or the interior decor or the drinks list — and that balancing act conveys a sense of edginess that appeals to a wide swath of customers.
Kids Media Matters
Boston Kids & Family TV
Boston Kids & Family TV offers Boston cable subscribers a line-up rich with educational and kids' programming. The daytime line-up includes Arthur, Sesame Street, Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood, Between the Lions; while the evening offers adult educational programs.
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