Social Issues
The Problem of Our Aging Prison Population
As the number of prisoners growing old behind bars increases at an alarming rate, correctional facilities are scrambling to come up with the resources for the care of elderly prisoners.
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.
Energy
Commission Relicenses Controversial Nuclear Plant
Opponents of the Pilgrim Nuclear Power Plant expressed their anger after federal regulators voted to extend the plant's license for another 20 years.
Xconomy
Xconomy Report: Full 'Metal' Funding
What’s catching Bill Gates’ attention these days? Local startup Liquid Metal Battery. Its technology could help the grid make better use of renewable energy sources.
Immigration
Before a License, an Immigration Check?
The Massachusetts Senate is expected to debate a controversial amendment to the state budget that would require the Registry of Motor Vehicles to check for proof of lawful immigration status before issuing driver's licenses.
Energy
Community Comes out for Cape Wind Hearing
Both sides of the issue were well represented at a public hearing to discuss NStar's proposal to buy and sell nearly a quarter of the energy anticipated from the Cape Wind project.
Jared Bowen: Caught in the Act
Pictures Worth Thousands
Nearly 6,000 photographs have become part of the MFA's collection, thanks to trustee Saundra Lane. Meanwhile, photographer Arthur Griffin's work at Fenway celebrates the ballpark's 100th anniversary.
On stage: Lonesome West and Xanadu.
Business
State Opens Investigation into Facebook IPO
Massachusetts’ top securities regulator has subpoenaed Morgan Stanley related to allegations that it misled most shareholders about the value of Facebook's IPO.
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.
Technology
The 31 Songs That Cost $675,000
See and hear the songs Joel Tenenbaum downloaded that were at stake in the BMG lawsuit. You've definitely heard many of them yourself ... and perhaps you even own a few.
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.
Election 2012
Bill Bradley Says 'We Can All Do Better'
The former senator, NBA star and presidential candidate says that to fix the broken American political system, we need a constitutional amendment restricting the role of money in politics.
Fish
Exploring the New Fish Counter at Whole Foods
Whole Foods has stopped selling "red-rated" fish. We take a trip to Cambridge to look at what that really means for shoppers.
Health Care
'Safety-Net' Hospitals Awarded Federal Funds
The federal government has approved the use of $628 million to implement cost-saving reforms at seven Massachusetts hospitals that treat many of the state’s poorest residents.
Business
Exporting Boston's Plastics
Some plastic waste gets recycled in New England plants. But some gets shipped overseas in the proverbial slow boat to China. See photos of one Chinese vessel and get a sense of the scale of our plastic exports.
Health Care
On Island, Health Care Coverage Gaps Are Common
Nantucket is getting ready for summer — a busy time not just for vacationers but for the island's labor force. But there's a serious side to island living, especially for those residents who aren't employed all year round: a gap in health insurance coverage.
Government
This Week in State Politics: On TV and in D.C.
Gov. Deval Patrick welcomes cable industry executives and celebrities to Boston, Lt. Gov. Tim Murray travels to the Pentagon and the state House and Senate debate spending and jobs.
Innovation Hub
Powering Innovation With Education
Is our education system training young Americans for an innovative future? We ask innovators and teachers about the future of math and science education.
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA
Highlights from Yelp Reviews of MBTA Stations
You're on the platform. You're waiting for the T. You have an opinion. We read it, and understand.
Environment
Innovation Spotlight: Recycling Plastics
Banned in Concord, the plastic water bottle has become a symbol of waste. But an entire industry wants you to keep using plastic ... as long as you toss it in the blue bin. WGBH News finds there is, indeed, a future in plastics.
EMILY ROONEY SHOW
How Three Minutes Changed a Father's Life
Author Buzz Bissinger talks about his new memoir, Father's Day, that chronicles a road trip he took with his special-needs son.
Xconomy
Xconomy Report: From Technology to the Tea Party
Thomas Massie started a tech company and moved West ... and then moved back to Kentucky, where he's a Tea Party darling and favored to win the Republican nomination for Congress.
Government
After a Tragedy, Life Jackets at Camp
A grieving father is calling for legislation at the Massachusetts State House aimed at preventing child drownings.
FENWAY FRIDAYS
From The WGBH Vault: Jean Shepherd at Fenway Park
Jean Shepherd, New York radio icon and a diehard Chicago White Sox fan, offers up a bittersweet song of praise for Boston’s great ballpark.
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.
Economy
State Unemployment Hits Lowest Level Since 2008
Figures show the Massachusetts jobless rate dipped to 6.3 percent in April, down from 6.5 percent in March.
Research News
Invest in Higher Ed for Jobs, Study Says
April saw 2,500 new jobs in the state. If we want even more, a UMass economist says we should fund state colleges and universities — to the tune of $800 mil.
Caught in the Act
Arts Ahead: Sometimes Less Is More
Simple pleasures can inform the arts, from folk songs that give people hope, the pastoral scenes that inspire painters or even the those rare moments when, as parents, we get it just right.
Caught in the Act
Cuban Art Comes to South Boston
Because travel restrictions between the U.S. and Cuba have eased slightly over the last 2 years, artist Orestes Gaulhiac was able to attend the opening of his new exhibit at Galeria Cubana.
Business
Facebook, Phone Home!
With the big IPO in the headlines, Mass. House Speaker Robert DeLeo put together his own sales pitch: to convince Mark Zuckerberg to move back to the Bay State.
On Disabilities
Rotenberg Center Defends Use of Electric Shock
Representatives from the school are standing up for the center, saying that aversion therapy has helped thousands of people with severe behavior disorders.
Education
New MIT President Leads in Online Ed
MIT provost L. Rafael Reif received a Tribeca Disruptive Innovation award for his role in the institution's online learning platforms. He talked about the MITx and edX projects with WGBH News.
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.
Immigration
Seething over 'Secure Communities'
A federal program aimed at identifying undocumented immigrants is now in effect — but that doesn't mean the debate is done.
Government
State Senate Opens Debate on Health Care Costs
The bill would control the cost of health care in Massachusetts. But is it necessary — or too much?
EMILY ROONEY SHOW
Somerville Bar Moves to Serve Only Local Brews
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA
Get Inside the T — Virtually
The MBTA now offers a mobile map option on Android phones that lets people see inside some stations. But will it be useful?
Government
Governor Sets Requirements for Health Care Bill
Deval Patrick weighed in for the first time since the state House and Senate unveiled competing versions of bills to rein in health care spending, listing four elements a final bill must have.
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.
Government
Lawmakers Support Universities and Infrastructure
Mass. House leaders unveiled plans on Monday to boost the budget for universities and local infrastructure programs as part of an omnibus economic development bill.
Government
Attorney General Calls for Change to Open Meeting Law
The attorney general's move comes as no surprise to those who have followed the State Integrity Investigation, a nationwide look at corruption risk.
Government
This Week on Beacon Hill: Love and Money
The budget process moves forward, the Mass. Senate tries to cut health care costs and the state marks 8 years of legal same-sex marriage.
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.
INNOVATION HUB
Lessons from the World's Poorest Neighborhoods
For one scholar, India’s poorest regions represent innovation — innovation that may have lessons to teach the world.
INNOVATION HUB
Inner-City Programs For The Next Big Thinkers
A look at the innovative programs that are helping inner-city students get the connections, resources and knowledge that it takes to be the next great entrepreneur, scientist or thinker.
Election 2012
On 'Mr. Mean' and 'Fauxcahontas'
Two different stories hit the news recently about prominent Massachusetts politicians and not-so-flattering incidents from their pasts. They might factor in voter choices.
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA
Highlights from Yelp Reviews of Lesser-Used Bus Lines
You can learn a lot about metro Boston by riding the bus. And you can learn even more by reading ... reviews of riding the bus.
CALLIE CROSSLEY SHOW
Celebrating Woody Guthrie at the A.R.T.
To see the performance "Woody Sez," and to hear Guthrie's songs again, one is struck by how relevant the music is today, given our country's current economic situation.
Xconomy
Xconomy Report: You Don't Have to 'Like' Him
Zuckerberg haters, relax: The social network giant has growing competition in the commerce realm from local startups such as CustomMade, Daily Grommet and Krush.
Children’s Health
Electroshock Therapy Under Fire
Now in the hands of state lawmakers: an online petition with over 200,000 signatures demanding an end to electric shock treatment at the Judge Rotenberg Center.
Election 2012
The Democratic Core in Election 2012
Latinos, African Americans, millennials, gay voters — all were key supporters in Obama's run for the White House in 2008. But will they come out in force in November? WGBH News and NPR bring you their views and voices.
Health Care
State Senate Targets Health Care Costs
With health care spending growing at least twice as fast as the overall economy, state Senate leaders released a proposal on Wednesday to drastically rein in the costs. The Mass. House released a similar measure last week.
Fenway at 100
Remembering Carl Beane
Known to Boston sports fans as the Voice of Fenway, Red Sox announcer Carl Beane died this month at 59. We remember him with a few of his appearances on WGBH.
Election 2012
Marisa DeFranco Is Not Going Away
Though she doesn't have the money or the spotlight, immigration lawyer Marisa DeFranco has gathered enough signatures to qualify for a Democratic primary — and says she'll continue to run.
Gambling
Gaming Official Turns Down Job
Gov. Deval Patrick said he hoped the resignation of Carl Stanley McGee would let the new state Gaming Commission proceed with its work.
EMILY ROONEY SHOW
Tim Gearan: Freewheelin' to National Fame
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.
Election 2012
Member of Appointments Board Defends Elizabeth Warren
A Harvard Law School professor and former Reagan administration official is calling "false" and "complete nonsense" any suggestion that Elizabeth Warren enjoyed an affirmative action advantage in her hiring as a full professor.
Economy
Paul Krugman Talks Solutions on Greater Boston
Forget "recession," forget "downturn." We're in a depression, Nobel-winning economist Paul Krugman says — and he thinks he knows how to fix it.
Education
What's the Best Fix for Community Colleges?
Community college advocates say the system's been neglected in the face of booming enrollment. But they differ about what the colleges need in order to provide a strong education and job training in the 21st century.
Folk Music
Judy Collins: Ready to Change the World
The legendary folk singer will participate in a Storytellers benefit this week at Sanders Theatre in Cambridge. She talked with WGBH about her new memoir, Sweet Judy Blue Eyes: My Life in Music.
Sports
Seau Suicide Highlights Athletes' Post-Career Risks
No matter how happy they seem in public, one local sports reporter has seen plenty of dark undercurrents once they get home.
Xconomy
Xconomy Report: E Pioneers!
Everyone's waiting for Facebook's IPO. But sometimes it's good to remember our country's first social network. ...
Education
The Changing Landscape of Online Ed
edX is making a splash this month -- another example of the academic marketplace filling the space between for-profit schools like the University of Phoenix and the traditional ivy-covered halls.
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.
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA
The MBTA Index
You care about the T: responses to our online survey hit the triple digits. With a tip of the hat to Harper's, here's a look at the results in digit form.
Education
Harvard, MIT Leaders Discuss Online Initiative
The provosts of Harvard and MIT joined Emily Rooney to discuss their joint online education initiative — one they think will be a game-changer. Watch Greater Boston on-demand.
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA
International Models for the T: Your Thoughts
Should we look to other cities as a model for the MBTA? Our readers and listeners who have lived elsewhere or traveled around the world had some suggestions.
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.
Education
An Innovative Approach to Help Troubled Teens
Kelsey Carroll faced homelessness, disability and abuse, and was at risk for dropping out. Now she's the subject of a documentary about her turnaround and the educational approach that helped her.
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.
Art & Design
The Ash Painter
Kevin King is an artist who makes his own paint, collecting and burning real elements that will become the subjects of his paintings, and from the ashes creating his own painting medium.
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA
Former Transportation Chief: The T's Troubles
Xconomy
Xconomy Report: Fly the Googley Skies
A year after Google acquired local startup ITA Software, it appears the giant's travel strategy is more about managing data than finding the best fares.
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA
Your Top 5 Ideas to Fix the T
In all the responses to our online survey, five solutions floated to the top. Which is your favorite? Vote here or on Facebook.
Poetry Month
Riding Routes of Poetry
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA
'Tourist Train' Status: Delayed
With cost concerns at the fore, expanding MBTA service is a tough proposition. So the Cape Cod transit authority decided to delay a tourist train to the Cape ... even though the service would pay for itself.
Gambling
The Silver City Goes for Casino Gold
The Mashpee Wampanoags' proposed casino in Taunton, Mass., would contribute about $120 million annually in economic development to the region, the tribal chief said.
Animals
On the Great Concord Cat War of 2012
At daybreak they gathered (with some difficulty), the freedom-fighters, meowing "don't leash us in!" But their opponents were also fighting for freedom — to keep troublesome cats off their property.
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.
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA
Should Massport Help the T?
Former state transportation secretary Fred Salvucci says there's one dramatic and simple fix for the MBTA's debt: Have Massport pick it up. Here's the agency's response and your thoughts on the Big Dig debt.
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA
The MBTA Answers Your Questions
Talk to the top, we said — and you did. Hear what MBTA general manager Jonathan Davis had to say in response to your calls and survey responses.
Boston
Former Celtic Chris Herren Turns Boston Purple
CALLIE CROSSLEY SHOW
Kirsten Greenidge and "Luck of the Irish"
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA
Getting a Free Ride ... from the Bus Fare Box
If you take the bus, you've probably come across a fare box that didn't work. WGBH News' Ibby Caputo asked just how widespread a problem that is — and how much money it's costing the T.
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.
Courts, Crime & Police
Barnstable DA: Killer Will Be Brought to Justice
Law enforcement officials have identified a body found in a remote area of woods in Falmouth as Trudie Hall, a Nantucket resident who went missing in July 2010.
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
Sci-Fi Solutions for the T
Some local experts are working to increase MBTA ridership by developing tools that sound like something out of speculative fiction.
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA
Your List: 10 Innovative Ideas to Fix the T
How would you fix the T? Here are some of the more creative ideas we've seen so far in the responses to our survey.
Government
Commission Targets Corporate Tax Incentives
A bipartisan commission has unanimously approved recommendations to track and assess the performance of business tax breaks.
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA
Fare Hikes and Your Health
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA
In Defense of the Car
Government
Budget Season on Beacon Hill This Week
The Mass. House of Representatives is considering a $32.3 billion spending plan for the fiscal year that begins July 1.
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA
How to Create a World-Class Transit System
Cities all over the world rely on robust public transportation systems. What are they doing right? PLUS: Your ideas gleaned from taking public transit in other countries.
Economy
MIT Aerospace Center Could Save Hanscom Jobs
MIT is proposing a multi-million-dollar new research facility at Hanscom Air Force Base at a time when state officials are worried Pentagon cutbacks could mean steep job losses.
Innovation Hub
The Modernization of America
We examine how Americans’ approach to the world is changing with David Ekbladh, a history professor at Tufts. MORE INNOVATION HUB
Innovation Hub
Where's the Humanity in a Techie World?
Fenway at 100
The Poet of Fenway
His luve's like a green, green monster ... Dick Flavin, the official poet laureate of Fenway Park, talks about the creative inspiration he finds in baseball and reads his special centennial verse.
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.
Xconomy
Xconomy Report: (Re)generating Excitement
A couple of Cambridge companies are gaining ground with their regenerative medicine technology, which uses living cells and other natural materials to promote healing.
FENWAY FRIDAYS
The Day I Rooted for the Red Sox
Danielle Dreilinger, author and web producer for WGBH.org, shares her memory of conversion from New York-bred Yankees fan to a die-hard member of the Red Sox Nation, and the effect it's had on her loved ones.
Government
Beacon Hill Examines Municipal Unemployment System
City and town leaders pleaded with state lawmakers to fix the municipal unemployment system, saying that questionable claims are draining town budgets.
Fenway at 100
Fans Flock to Fenway Park Open House
The day before the official Fenway 100 celebration, the park opened to fans — and to Greater Boston, which recorded a tribute show on the grounds. Host Emily Rooney describes the scene.
Film & Television
Critic Wesley Morris on His Pulitzer Win
The 36-year-old movie reviewer and essayist talks about what it's like to win journalism's highest honor.
Economy
New Jobs Report Contradicts Previous Data
It looks like the job market in 2011 wasn’t as bad as we thought. A new report shows that Massachusetts added 38,900 jobs in the first nine months of 2011.
Election 2012
Senate Candidate Marisa DeFranco
The spotlight's on Elizabeth Warren and Scott Brown, but there's still another Democrat in the race.
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 ....
Gambling
The Lottery: Who Wins, Who Loses?
Massachusetts has one of the most successful lotteries in the country. But as the lottery turns 40 this week, not everyone is celebrating.
Gambling
Gambling Commission Looks for Expert Guidance
The newly formed gambling oversight board is holding a conference to learn about what will be a multi-billion-dollar addition to the state's economy.
Election 2012
Populism in the Mass. Senate Race
Is Elizabeth Warren an elitist? Is Scott Brown Everyman? The competitors are fighting to be the people's choice.
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 News Focus: The MBTA
Tell Us How You'd Fix the 'T'
If you've taken even one trip on a MBTA bus, train or ferry, you have an opinion about what's wrong and how to fix it. As part of our April news focus on the MBTA, we want to hear your ideas to improve the system.
FENWAY CENTENNIAL
The Voice of Fenway: Carl Beane
As our beloved ballpark prepares to mark its 100th, we're launching a special series: Fenway Fridays. For this installment, the "voice of Fenway" joins Bob Seay to maybe give some insider info about the April 20 celebration.
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA
From the WGBH Vault: MBTA Improvements
In 1989, WGBH-2 talked to MBTA riders about recent changes. Not all the riders saw the transit system through rose-colored glasses. Try aviators, instead.
Xconomy
Xconomy Report: Mobile Is Moving
While most of the tech world is talking about Facebook's billion-dollar acquisition of Instagram, a couple of local startups in mobile and social apps are making some noise of their own.
Gambling
Out-of-State Gambling Trends Bode Well for Mass.
Bay State residents spent more at Rhode Island's two slot parlors in 2011 than Rhode Islanders did, according to a new study.
Weather & National Disasters
Fires Flare in a Dry Forest
It has all the worst ingredients: toppled trees, dry gusts of wind, pine needles parched and brittle. Brimfield State Forest has become a forest-sized fireplace. After an early-April blaze, rangers talk about what they're doing to help.
Inside the WGBH Open Vault
Mike Wallace and the Early Days of TV News
When word of Mike Wallace's death reached WGBH News' Ted Canova, it took him back to the days when you had to get up to change the channel, to the days when TV news was still being defined.
U.S.
What Is … the Sultana?
Pop quiz: If someone asked you what the "Sultana" was … how would you answer? A restaurant, a band, a kind of grape? The answer comes with a surprising story.
Government
Proposed Budget at Odds with Governor's Plan
Massachusetts Speaker of the House Robert DeLeo unveiled a $32.3 billion state budget that would deal a blow to some of Gov. Deval Patrick's major policy initiatives.
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.
Election 2012
Moving Past the Sweater Vest in Election 2012
Mitt Romney's biographer predicted that the former Massachusetts governor is breathing easy now that Santorum is out. Barack Obama? That's another story.
Social Issues
'Death with Dignity': One Family's Story
This fall, Bay State voters will likely be asked to weigh in on the so-called Death with Dignity Act. Heather Clish’s father ended his life in Oregon using a similar law. She shared her family's experience with Greater Boston.
Government
At the State House: Legalizing Medical Marijuana
There is evidence that Massachusetts residents support legalizing marijuana for medical uses. But at a public hearing on a proposed ballot initiative on the issue, Beacon Hill was decidedly lukewarm.
Cambridge
What's Next for Central Square?
Major changes are coming to Central Square in Cambridge, fueling a resurgent urban renewal effort that some say is long overdue — and that others question.
Transportation & Infrastructure
Lawmakers Consider T Bailout Bill
The debate over how to close the MBTA’s huge deficit is in lawmakers' hands now.
CALLIE CROSSLEY SHOW
Rachel Dratch: Life after SNL
Folk Music
Brian O'Donovan Pays Tribute to John McGann
On April 6, musician John McGann passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a wife and young daughter. He was known in the Irish, bluegrass and jazz worlds locally and abroad, and taught at Berklee.
Government
This Week on Beacon Hill: Budget Season
Immigration advocates rally, transportation officials testify on a bill transferring funds to the MBTA and the Massachusetts House unveils its budget for fiscal year 2013.
INNOVATION HUB
How Social Media Is Shaping Us
Innovation Hub takes a look at how social media is changing us and the world we live in. What do we share about ourselves? And what do we want to keep secret?
Energy
State Aims to Slow Nuclear Plant Relicensing
Attorney General Martha Coakley cited a expert report concluding the risks of severe accidents are greater than previously thought.
Xconomy
Xconomy Report: Remembering Norman Priebatsch
The life sciences entrepreneur is missing and presumed dead after a hiking accident in New Hampshire.
CALLIE CROSSLEY SHOW
Put the Needle on the Record: Vinyl Is Back
It's not just nostalgia: LP sales were up 36 percent last year, and even college students are getting into the act. A radio engineer, a student inventor and a record-store owner talk about why they love vinyl — and play some tunes.
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.
Energy
Power's Out? You Might Get Paid
The state Senate unanimously passed a measure that would compensate ratepayers for prolonged power outages.
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.
Red Sox
Red Sox Season Opens Under a Cloud
One year ago, everyone forecast a banner year for the Sox. Now, everyone's gloomy. But perhaps the pendulum of public opinion's swung too far?
Transportation & Infrastructure
MBTA Board Passes Unpopular Fare Hike
The board that oversees the Mass. Bay Transportation Authority voted 4-1 in favor of fare increases and modest service cuts as the crowd of 200-plus riders shouted "shame on you."
Courts, Crime & Police
Cahill Defends Himself Outside Courthouse
Former state Treasurer Tim Cahill pleaded not guilty to charges that he used public funds to advance his own career.
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.
Government
Governor Blames GOP for Gridlock in Congress
Gov. Deval Patrick criticized congressional Republicans Tuesday, saying they're blocking President Barack Obama’s efforts to fix the economy.
@ WGBH
Yul Kwon Visits WGBH
Government
Is the Public Fed Up with Politics as Usual?
After Tim Cahill's indictment on corruption charges for lottery ads, politicians are saying everyone does it — and some observers say that's the problem. Also: What's your grade for corruption in Massachusetts?
Communications & Media
Skittles and Etch-a-Sketch: When Brands Meet Politics
Amid the fallout in the Trayvon Martin murder is a public relations conundrum for a product innocently linked to the Florida teen. It’s an unfortunate circumstance that’s plagued other brands from Kool-Aid to the Post Office.
Government
Former Treasurer Indicted for Corruption
Attorney General Martha Coakley alleged that Tim Cahill used publicly funded lottery ads to advance his candidacy for governor in 2010. Cahill's former campaign manager and his former chief of staff were also indicted.
Government
This Week in State Politics: Same-Sex Marriage and the MBTA
A law banning the recognition of same-sex marriage law heads to federal appeals court in Boston and the Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority board is poised to approve service cuts and fare hikes.
Immigration
Town Rallies for Restaurateur Facing Deportation
Nearly 20 years ago, Kong Xin Chen came to the U.S. from China. In December 2011, immigration agents took him from his Marshfield restaurant. But Chen is fighting deportation, with his patrons behind him.
Health Care
Physicians' Group Advocates for the Affordable Care Act
Doctors for America, which filed an amicus brief with the Supreme Court, has 15,000 members of various political persuasions who all support President Barack Obama's health care law, the group's co-founder says.
Innovation Hub
A New Look For The Tax Code
Does our tax system make any sense? We ask two top economists how they would reinvent and rethink.
Health Care
Commonwealth Care: Immigration, Insurance and Independence
The scenario is daunting enough: a hard-working man, an immigrant, diagnosed with cancer. But when he is bounced back and forth by insurance, cancer is just part of his struggle.
Government
Panel Recommends Limits on EBT Card Use
A Massachusetts commission is recommending new restrictions on Electronic Benefits Transfer or EBT cards — the debit cards that replaced food stamps. Some lawmakers say the proposals don’t go far enough.
Courts, Crime & Police
'Stand Your Ground' Law in the Bay State?
Despite Gov. Deval Patrick's opposition, several lawmakers are backing a self-defense bill that's similar to the Florida law at the center of the Trayvon Martin shooting.
Health Care
One WGBH Journalist's Health Care Journey
At the age of 26, WGBH News' Ibby Caputo was diagnosed with leukemia. She needed expensive treatment — and qualified for MassHealth. It made her ask: whose lives matter, and at what cost?
Transportation & Infrastructure
Governor: State Needs a Long-Term Transit Solution
Gov. Deval Patrick said he supports the MBTA's plan to bridge a $185 million budget gap but warned that it is only a short-term fix.
Health Care
Mass. Ranks above Average on Medication Adherence
New research shows that Bay State residents are better at sticking to their prescribed drug regimen than most. Still, one-third of the patients with chronic health conditions stop taking their medication within a year.
Gambling
Kraft Reps. Address Foxborough Selectmen
U.S. District Court Judge Joseph Tauro granted a restraining order allowing Robert Kraft's representatives to speak after Kraft's company filed a civil rights lawsuit against the town.
Health Care
At MGH, Building from the Skeleton of a Heart
Scientists at Mass. General Hospital are working on a technique to strip diseased hearts of their cells and then rebuild them into healthy organs.
Health Care
The Callie Crossley Show Puts Health Care in Focus
WGBH Local News
Boston Gets Hit by the Wrecking Ball
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.
Health Care
The History Lessons of Health Care
A look at the last century of health care and health insurance through video — including some proposals that seem ideologically unusual today.
WGBH NEWS FOCUS: Health Care on Trial
Changing the Face of Medicine
Local doctors are making unique efforts to improve the quality of medical treatment, especially in populations of color — in part by recruiting members of those communities to join the M.D. ranks.
Energy
Bill Seeks to Lower Your Electric Costs
The Massachusetts Senate plans to take up an omnibus bill this week aimed at controlling electricity costs by authorizing more frequent reviews of proposed rate hikes and requiring competitive bidding for green energy.
Courts, Crime & Police
What to Listen for in the Health Care Arguments
Rock/Pop/Folk
Bruce Springsteen: Born to Rock
Springsteen's SXSW Speech on NPRSing "Born to Run" for WGBH News
Phillip Martin after the Boston show
An in-depth listen to the song that launched the Boss's career into stardom and established his gritty version of rock-n-roll.
Xconomy
Xconomy Report: Let the Robot Reach the Top Shelf
It's the biggest local deal of the year so far: Amazon has acquired a North Reading company that makes wheeled robots to move packages in warehouses efficiently.
Health Care
WGBH News Focus: Health Care on Trial
Last week, WGBH News shone a spotlight on the Affordable Care Act: the Supreme Court arguments and analysis, plus features and conversations illuminating the many facets of health care.
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.
Business
Postal Workers Protest Planned Closures
Advocates and employees warn that a plan to save $20 billion will result in furious customers and lost jobs.
War & Conflict
The World: Soldiers Coming Home
Gambling
A Long Delay Possible for Casinos in Mass.
When the casino bill passed in November 2011, top lawmakers said shovels would be in the ground within 3 to 5 years for casinos, and even sooner for a slots parlor. The newly formed gambling commission says that timetable may be unrealistic.
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.
Government
Governor Responds to Corruption Risk Investigation
The executive branch earned a C-plus on the nationwide State Integrity Initiative, which looked at laws on the books to prevent corruption in government.
Gambling
Final Two Members Appointed to Gaming Commission
Communications & Media
City Councilor Stands Up for 'Damned' Lawrence
Lawrence city councilor Dan Rivera said the city has problems but is "trying to figure it out." PLUS: Boston Magazine writer Jay Atkinson talks about his controversial story.
Education
Raid FUELs Banker's Support for Immigrants
Five years ago this month, federal agents stormed the Bianco textile factory in New Bedford, arresting 350 undocumented workers. The experience led Bob HIldreth to create Families United in Educational Leadership to help low-income immigrants.
WGBH SPECIAL REPORT
The State Integrity Project
Government
This Week in State Politics: Gambling, Courts and Utilities
On Beacon Hill, judges make the case for more state funding for the trial courts, officials weigh the proposed NStar-Northeast merger and the final members of Massachusetts Gambling Commission are expected to be announced.
WGBH Special Reports
Mass. Earns a C on National Corruption Risk Index
When you think of Sal DiMasi and his two convicted predecessors, Massachusetts can seem like a hotbed of political intrigue. See how we ranked in a new nationwide study of corruption risk.
Innovation Hub
Race Against the Machine
Hear from the the authors of the book Race Against the Machine, who argue that the stagnant unemployment rate may not be getting better any time soon.
Innovation Hub
The Future of Knowledge: Too Big to Know
We're joined by Harvard’s David Weinberger, whose book, Too Big to Know, argues that the rapidly-expanding amount of information available to us is changing how we think and communicate.
Courts, Crime & Police
Danroy Henry Sr.: 'Of Course We Suspect'
After police released a batch of documents from the night of DJ Henry's death, his father talked about what he thought it all meant.
Xconomy
Xconomy Report: Video Game Medicine
Could your child leave his next checkup with a prescription for a video game? Akili Interactive Labs hopes its game will be the first approved by the FDA as a medical device.
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."
Government
Your Take: A Mass. Corruption Report Card
Tim Cahill's indictment was another reminder of the long history of corruption in Massachusetts. What does that mean for your grade on the corruption report card?
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.
Courts, Crime & Police
From the Courtroom: Catherine Greig
The girlfriend of James "Whitey" Bulger pleaded guilty Wednesday to helping him evade capture. Greater Boston has the word from the courtroom.
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.
WGBH Local News
City Rallies to Defend 'Godforsaken' Reputation
Some residents of Lawrence are outraged over a magazine article they claim painted their city in an unflattering light.
Psychology & The Mind
A Nutrition Label for the News
You're doing it right now: You're consuming media. Some theorists say our information diet is making us bloated. Here's how they want to help us. EXTRA: What's your favorite media "junk food"?
WGBH Local News
Insurance Claims & Lemon Cars Top List of Consumer Complaints
Thousands of callers contacted the state's Office of Consumer Affairs last year to lodge complaints. See which five top the list.
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.
Weather & National Disasters
After the Tornado, Recovery Is Slow
It’s been over nine months since tornados ripped through the state. But for towns such as Monson, the passage of time has meant little. Homes still aren’t restored; debt is mounting, and so is the frustration. We interview two families.
Courts, Crime & Police
What Really Happened on Oct. 17, 2010?
The story that emerges from newly released, previously classified documents in the DJ Henry case is unclear. Here's a video and some of the voices from that night.
Transportation & Infrastructure
Lawmakers: We Have to Fix the T ... Somehow
As the debate continues over proposed fare hikes and service cuts for Boston-area mass transit, advocates called Monday for a long-term solution to the state's transportation funding problems.
Gambling
Treasurer: Gaming Pick Knows Procurement, Transparency
Enrique Zuniga, the third person named to the five-member gaming commission, has worked for the state Water Pollution Abatement Trust and School Building Authority.
Government
This Week on Beacon Hill: Hearings and Complaints
This week in state politics, the debate over MBTA fare hikes and service cuts is about to enter a new phase, the state announces the top five consumer complaints and a rally is planned at the State House to push for a change in sex abuse laws.
Courts, Crime & Police
The New DJ Henry Documents
New documents are now available from the DJ Henry case, including video of the night of the shooting, multiple depositions and police hotline audio. Check them out online.
Innovation Hub
Innovating in the Face of Climate Change
Energy
The Question of Green Jobs and Energy Costs
A bill aimed at lowering state electricity prices spurred a debate on jobs Thursday at a hearing of the Legislature's Joint Committee on Utilities and Energy.
Women
There Is Always Room at the Top
On International Women's Day, pioneering ad executive Charlotte Beers talks about her climb to success and how other women can get there too.
Courts, Crime & Police
Henry Family Has the Right to See Surveillance Tapes
A federal judge ruled Thursday afternoon that the family of Danroy "DJ" Henry has the right to see surveillance tapes taken on the night of Henry's death. We continue our ongoing coverage of the case.
Education
Lawmakers Consider Raising Dropout Age
The Legislature's Joint Education Committee is set to vote on a bill today to change the high school dropout age from 16 to 18. However, questions about funding remain unanswered.
Movies
Jared Bowen's Arts Ahead: Let's Go to the Movies
Music
Esperanza Spalding: The Future of Music
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.
Animals
Could You Hurt This Dog?
State lawmakers are weighing a bill that would make it illegal for pet owners to leave their dogs tied up outside for more than eight hours or overnight.
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.
Government
Put That in Your Ballot Box and Smoke It
Lawmakers held a public hearing Tuesday on a bill to legalize, regulate and tax marijuana.
Economy
Optimism Continues among Local Employers
Associated Industries of Massachusetts reported that its business confidence index for February rose to its highest level in nearly a year.
Psychology & The Mind
Inside the Psyche at the Ballot Box
Along with political analysts, should candidates hire the kind of analyst who has a couch and a 50-minute hour?
Travel
Dreaming of an Air Travel Boom
Boeing's fuel-efficient Dreamliner 787 is making nonstop Boston-to-Tokyo air travel feasible for the first time.
Energy
Will Rising Gas Costs Change Driver Behavior?
Gas prices are up for the 11th consecutive week. But a new study says that might not make a difference in how much people drive.
Election 2012
The State of the Massachusetts Republican
Mitt Romney's opponents call him a "Massachusetts moderate." In the week of Super Tuesday, we look at what characterizes the GOP voters who went to the polls.
Government
This Week in State Politics: Super Tuesday Looms
This week in Massachusetts state politics, Sen. John Kerry addresses the Bay State business community, Lt. Gov. Tim Murray continues his tour of military bases and voters head to the polls to choose presidential nominees.
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.
Social Issues
Homegrown Protest
From the Tea Party to the Occupy movement to websites going dark, protest has been in the news. "The Callie Crossley Show" took a look at three protest movements from our region that have made an impact.
Xconomy
Xconomy Report: Tech in the Air
A Google-owned Cambridge software company will introduce a new reservation system for airlines, starting with Hyannis-based Cape Air.
U.S.
'Hope and Change,' and a New Center at Tufts
At Tufts, a conference studying Barack Obama has grown into a center examining the role of race in democracy worldwide.
Health Care
Expanded HIV Testing May Come to Mass.
The Massachusetts Senate passed a bill on Thursday aimed at expanding HIV testing in the state.
Health Care
Organizing Against a Medication 'Gray Market'
The medical community and policymakers are talking about ways to fix the national prescription drug shortage, including making sure private distributors don't hold back drugs to inflate the market.
Race & Ethnicity
African American Teen Unemployment: A Growing Problem
Teens were at the mall during school vacation, but they weren't all just hanging out. Some were looking for a job — and black teens in particular are finding those jobs hard to come by.
Pop Culture
Lady Gaga at Harvard
The singer launched her Born This Way Foundation at Harvard accompanied by an all-star lineup — and the Twitterverse liked it.
Gambling
Wampanoags Put a Casino Stake in Taunton
A Native American tribe has taken the first concrete step toward securing one of the state's three casino licenses. The Mashpee Wampanoags announced Wednesday that the tribe has entered an agreement to buy land in East Taunton.
Books
Essayist/Comedian Michael Ian Black
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.
Environment
A Local Perspective on Global Warming: Complete Series
Temperatures are increasing, weather is getting more erratic and sea levels are rising. What should we do?
Government
State Considers Option to Free Terminally Ill Prisoners
A state Legislature hearing turned contentious over a bill that would permit compassionate release of terminally ill inmates.
Gambling
Putting Pieces Together at the State Gambling Commission
On the day Attorney General Martha Coakley announced her appointment to the state casino gambling oversight panel, chairman-designate Stephen Crosby talked to WGBH News about working for a virtual startup.
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?
THIS WEEK ON BEACON HILL
Patrick Hobnobs with Obama, and More
This week in Mass. state politics, Gov. Deval Patrick continues his whirlwind tour of the nation's capital, former House speaker Sal DiMasi fights for his pension and the treasurer mulls online lottery sales.
Economy
At a Farm Stand, Jobs — and People to Fill Them
Here's a bit of good news on the economic front: a beloved family-run business in Needham is expanding — and hiring.
SPECIAL SERIES: CAPE CHANGE
Warm Winter, Big Questions
The mild winter weather make it almost impossible not to wonder: Is it global warming? This week, WCAI's Heather Goldstone looks at the signs and science of environmental change on the Mass. coastline. Part one in a series.
Innovation Hub
The Future Of The Workplace
Innovation Hub looks at the changing workplace: telecommuting, skyping, and emailing from home? Free food, games, and quirky decorations?
Election 2012
On the Growing Latino Vote
Nationwide, Latino voter turnout has increased with every election. The bloc could potentially have a major impact in November, in Boston and beyond.
Health Care
Xconomy Report: More Hope for Hep C
The battle for hepatitis C drug market dominance rages on locally, with Vertex honing its drug Telaprevir and Enanta teaming with Novartis to create a new treatment.
Election 2012
Listen: Brown and Warren's Contraception Ads
Republican Sen. Scott Brown and Democratic candidate Elizabeth Warren are squaring off over politically charged questions of religion, government and contraception. On Thursday, they released dueling radio ads on the issue. Listen to them here. WGBH ELECTION CENTRAL
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.
Weather & National Disasters
Winter's for Building
The balmy weather has been lethal for ski resorts, but it's boom times for the region's construction industry. A financial services reporter explains the situation and the link to commercial lending.
Courts, Crime & Police
Judge Explains Reasoning in Controversial Decision
Was judge Christina Harms in the right when she ruled that a mentally ill woman should have an abortion and undergo sterilization? She defended her decision and explained her thinking to WGBH News.
Mental Health
Advocates Fight State over Mental Hospital Closure
At a Wednesday budget hearing, Southeastern Mass. lawmakers criticized the state's decision to close Taunton State Hospital. The state says closing the facility won't affect services.
Government
For Controversial Office Complex, a New Approach
Mass. lawmakers are pushing a bill to allow the medical software company Meditech to build an office complex on an Indian burial ground — and it's causing friction with Secretary of State William Galvin.
Red Sox
The New Sox Season
Every year, hope and baseball both spring anew. As spring training gets underway, Sox president/CEO Larry Lucchino talks about new skipper Bobby Valentine, Jason Varitek's future and being an underdog.
Pop Culture
Make It Extra Black: Baratunde's Guide to Race Relations
WGBH Local News
Studying Libraries, Part 2: The E-Book Battle
Librarians are reporting dramatic increases in the numbers of people looking to borrow e-books. But some publishing houses are rethinking whether they want libraries loaning out e-books at all.
Government
At the State House, a Budget and a Burial Ground
This week in state politics, the Legislature holds a public hearing on a bill that could pave the way for 800 jobs on the South Shore — on the site of a historic burial ground — and lawmakers discuss part of Gov. Deval Patrick's budget proposal.
Greater Boston
A Conversation with Lawrence Summers
The renowned economist, former presidential advisor and former Harvard University president has a sunny prediction for the U.S. economy.
Innovation Hub
High-Tech Health: Apps For Exercise, Diet And More
We’ll look at high-tech ways of getting healthy — a nutritionist in your pocket, a marathon coach on your mobile phone — and more.
Innovation Hub
The Tiniest Inventions: Nanotechnology
This week, we dive into the teeny, tiny world of nanotechnology — and find out from those on the cutting edge if it could fundamentally alter and improve our lives.
Education
Studying Libraries, Part 1: More with Less
People are looking to libraries to respond to technology and make up for cuts in their own household budgets — and libraries are answering the call.
Education
Boston's University Leader Sisterhood
The president of Bentley University said that departing MIT president Susan Hockfield was a mentor and an inspiration.
Animals
How to Solve the Coyote Problem?
After several high-profile dog deaths, lawmakers, communities and dog owners are grappling with how to prevent coyote attacks.
Xconomy
Xconomy Report: Stylin' Students
Fashion isn’t the first word that comes to mind when you hear “Harvard,” but Xconomy has tracked down 19 young, fashion-focused internet companies with founders from the B-school.
Transportation & Infrastructure
Emotions Run High at Malden MBTA Hearing
Media attention focused this week on the hearings at the Boston Public Library, where hundreds staged a protest — but transit users in the outskirts of the Orange Line are just as mad.
Local Politics
How to Take On a Kennedy
Joseph P. Kennedy III is the latest to run from the family whose lingering aura is a political force. We look into WGBH's archives for an answer to the question many have asked: How can you effectively challenge a Kennedy?
Election 2012
Warren Is Surprised Brown Supports 'Extremist' Bill
Elizabeth Brown objected to rival Scott Brown's support of a bill that would allow employers to not offer health care coverage for any service that goes against their moral beliefs.
Election 2012
Your 4th Congressional Cheat Sheet
Despite the frenzy, JPK3's not the only game in town. There are currently five candidates for the 4th Congressional seat. Here's what they're about.
Local Politics
Mass. Republicans Propose Jobs Plan
Massachusetts House and Senate Republicans have a plan they say will create more jobs in the Commonwealth.
Election 2012
Joseph P. Kennedy III on the Campaign Trail
Joseph P. Kennedy III announced his candidacy for the 4th Congressional seat this morning. Our commentators think it won't be a coronation.
Energy
Cape Wind Deal Done, Governor Says OK to Merger
Gov. Deval Patrick has agreed to sign off on a merger between NSTAR and Northeast Utilities, removing a major roadblock from the $17.5 billion deal. The state had been holding off while the utilities negotiated a side deal to buy renewable power from Cape Wind.
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.
Local Politics
Why Can't Cambridge Choose a Mayor?
Every other year, as regular as the groundhog, Cambridge's City Council experiences gridlock trying to choose a mayor. What gives?
FRONTLINE
A Conversation with The Interrupters
Transportation & Infrastructure
Lawmakers Push Back on Potential MBTA Solutions
Legislators may be approaching an impasse over how to handle potential cuts and hikes at the MBTA: At a Tuesday State House hearing, people from different regions of the state couldn't agree on a fix.
Business
A Candy Company Tries Again
Candy is big business this time of year. And while Valentine's Day candy is steeped in tradition, Necco is trying to figure out how to stand out in other seasons.
Communications & Media
The Conversation of Hearts
Tweet Me? Marry Me? We get the story behind those Necco sayings — and read some sayings you're making up on Twitter.
Music
Local Wins at the 2012 Grammys
U.K.-born Adele grabbed the headlines but at least six of this year's Grammy winners have Boston connections. Listen to their music here.
Health Care
Drug Shortages Compromise Care, Doctors Say
Hospitals' inability to keep sufficient stores of medication on hand is endangering patients' lives, officials said at a Monday State House hearing.
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.
Government
This Week On Beacon Hill, It's Rx 'N' T
This week in Massachusetts politics, state lawmakers discuss prescription drug shortages, transit funding and offshore wind farms.
Social Issues
In Lowell, A Successful Art Space Expands
After five years of running a successful artists' studio space in Lowell, a developer is back for the next round: 50 units in a converted factory next door — and this time, the artists can live there as well as work.
Sports
The Next Boxing Phenom? She's 16
Two decades ago, John “The Quiet Man” Ruiz emerged from the Somerville Boxing Club to fighting fame. Now reopened, the club, a haven for inner-city youth, may have another champion in 16-year-old Rashida Ellis.
Biology & Chemistry
Super Bowl Sensors: The Findings Are In
Some unexpected data came out of WGBH News' Super Bowl biosensor experiment that could advance a researcher's work on addiction.
Xconomy
Xconomy Report: Corporate Eyes Are Watching You
With video conferencing, your competitors can be just as bored as you are: Many video conferences are susceptible to corporate spying, according to Boston software company Rapid7.
Poverty
Cracking Down On EBT Abuse
Republican lawmakers are putting pressure on Gov. Deval Patrick to overhaul what items publicly funded EBT cards can be used to purchase.
Black History Month
Rubin Carter: The Hurricane
A look back at the life of Rubin "Hurricane" Carter, a prize fighter who was wrongly convicted twice for murder.
Government
Fight To Overturn Citizens United Comes To Mass.
Activists and lawmakers gathered on Feb. 9 to protest Citizens United and urge the Legislature to pass a resolution calling for a constitutional amendment to reverse the decision.
Fine Art
The Best of Contemporary Art: The deCordova Biennial
The best of New England contemporary art on display for the 2012 Biennial.
Religion
The Church Protests A Federal Birth Control Mandate
The Boston archdiocese's secretary for social services said the White House needs to respect the church's core values.
Environment
No End To Wave Of Dolphin Strandings On Cape
Dolphins have stranded themselves along the shores of Cape Cod Bay since at least the Colonial era. But the latest round of strandings has been especially long-lasting. And each time, volunteers go out to help.
Government
Read DeLeo's Lips: No New Taxes
Mass. House Speaker Robert DeLeo told lawmakers on Feb. 8 that he would not support any new taxes or fees, seeming to deal a blow to the governor's budget plan.
Transportation & Infrastructure
The Debate Over Civil Liberties And Seat Belts
What's not to like about stronger seat belt laws? The risk of racial profiling, the NAACP says. A seat belt safety bill is currently stalled in the Legislature.
Courts, Crime & Police
What's DiMasi Doing Up North?
Beacon Hill is quaking over the return of former Mass. House Speaker Sal DiMasi, whose knowledge of corruption in the Probation Department could get some people into trouble.
WGBH Local News
Advocates Seek To Curb Online Ads For Kids
Advocates argue that children are vulnerable to advertising's persuasive intent, and that merits protections against online ads.
Courts, Crime & Police
Pols Debate DNA Database Expansion
Massachusetts lawmakers are considering proposals to collect DNA from people who have been arrested for felonies but not yet convicted, raising concerns about civil rights and privacy.
Black History Month
Malcolm X In 1961
As we celebrate Black History Month, an odd twist of history is giving us the chance to hear a rare recording of Malcolm X at Brown University.
The Callie Crossley Show
The ABCs of Childhood Obesity
Technology
Watching The Super Bowl Online: A Review
The Super Bowl was the most-watched TV show in U.S. history — but for geeks, the excitement was online, with NBC's first-ever web stream. How did the experience measure up?
Human Trafficking
Human Trafficking And The Super Bowl
As sports fans watched the Patriots-Giants Super Bowl in record numbers, Indianapolis police, taxi drivers and private security were keeping a close eye on venues where trafficking might take place.
Education
Kerry Town Hall Promotes College Affordability
As college becomes ever more a necessity for economic success — it's also getting ever more expensive. Sen. John Kerry held a public meeting on Feb. 6 to learn how to keep costs down.
WGBH Local News
Gov. Patrick On Community Colleges, Jobs And Income Inequality
Government
Awaiting Probation Indictments On Beacon Hill
Lawmakers anxiously await possible criminal indictments, House Speaker Robert DeLeo discusses his legislative priorities and Attorney General Martha Coakley debates the federal health care law.
Communications & Media
Beat The Press: White's Passing Re-Ignites Feud
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.
Innovation Hub
Using Business Tools To Combat The World's Big Problems
We talk to experts about the rising tide of social entrepreneurship. Does it have the power to address some of the fundamental problems in society?
Sports
The State Of Biosensors And The Super Bowl
Did the high-stress Super Bowl make your heart pound? During the game, we strapped biosensors on fans to learn about the state of mobile-phone health technology.
Health Care
Mass. Group Applauds Course-Reversal On Planned Parenthood
The director of the state Komen affiliate hopes local donors will see the impact of its state-level work.
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.
Xconomy
Xconomy Report: Finding The Next Facebook
While most of the tech world is analyzing Facebook’s impending IPO, a new effort at Harvard University is trying to find the next Facebook — and keep it in Cambridge.
WGBH Local News
Advocates of Mentally Ill Want More Training for Boston Police
Two prominent mental health groups released a new report on Thursday at the Massachusetts State House, recommending the Commonwealth do more to improve the way police officers interact with people with mental illness.
WGBH Local News
J.C. Penney Gets A Makeover
Have the lambs stopped screaming yet, Clarice? Maybe not — but those maddening shoppers have! J.C. Penney has become the latest business to reinvent itself for the 21st century.
Education
Going To Community College, Or Not
Gov. Deval Patrick is advocating community college for those out of work ... but sometimes it's not that easy.
Sports
Super Bowl Preview: Are We The Yankees?
Would you rather win and be hated, or lose and be loved? The country of football fans is standing as one against New England for the Super Bowl this year, said sportscaster Bob Lobel.
WGBH Local News
A Kennedy Life 'Interrupted'
In a new book, JFK Jr.'s former personal assistant shares her memories of the Kennedy heir and his life in New York.
Film & Television
Jared Bowen's Arts Ahead: Vixens and Cross Dressers
Two female leads portray women who go to extremes as they face the fallout of war and the pressure of hardship.
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.
Remembrances
Remembering Mayor Kevin White: The Funeral
Hear the eulogies and watch interviews with Boston's living political history on the occasion of Kevin White's funeral on Feb. 1.
WGBH Local News
New Bill Would Keep Money Off Beacon Hill During Budget Talks
Massachusetts lawmakers are looking for ways to reduce money's influence in state politics — or at least, improve Beacon Hill's Reputation.
Business
Paying The Bills One 'Gig' At A Time
Even when the economy turns around, it will take years for jobs to return to pre-recession levels. That’s why more and more people are re-inventing their work lives in nontraditional, innovative ways.
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.
Economy
Update On The New England Economy
The president and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank in Boston says that the region's economy is growing, but ever so slowly.
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.
Sports
Skaters Take The Long Road To The Olympics
This weekend, the country's top figure skaters tested their merit at the U.S. Nationals in San Jose. But next year, one pair may be competing in a very different place. Hear their big plan and watch them perform.
WGBH Special Reports
From The WGBH Vault: Trying Times
Kevin White's tenure as mayor was a time of tumultuous race relations in Boston. These exclusive WGBH videos show key moments when White, who died Friday, tried to negotiate those tensions.
Innovation Hub
Cars That Fly, Fold Up And Drive Us Forward
How can we adapt cars to a world that's rapidly industrializing, urbanizing, and straining to meet its energy needs?
WGBH Local News
Former Mayor Kevin White Dies At 82
Former Boston Mayor Kevin White, who presided over a racially-turbulent decade in the city, dies at 82.
Transportation & Infrastructure
Hands-Free Phone Law Might Not Increase Safety
On Jan. 26, the Mass. transportation committee passed a bill that would prohibit handheld phones behind the wheel. But one expert says the "common sense" solution lacks sense.
WGBH Local News
Bipartisan Brown
A new study gives weight to Sen. Scott Brown's claim this election year that he's a political independent. Will it help attract moderate voters come November?
Xconomy
Xconomy Report: It's Hard Out There For A Jerk
An informal survey of Boston-area tech CEOs suggests that being a jerk may be much less beneficial than it used to be.
Governing
Deval Patrick Talks 'Three Strikes' And Tim Murray
Among the highlights from the governor's interview on "Greater Boston": why he doesn't like the idea of people seeing his itemized cell phone records and what he wants in a "three-strikes" law.
Government
Administration Defends Spending Priorities
It's another challenging budget year — and if you're tired of hearing that one, the state's head of finance can relate. WGBH NEWS: THE BUDGET PROPOSAL
Animals
How To Save A Stranded Dolphin
This week, a number of the stranded Cape Cod dolphins were seen swimming off the coast of Maine. The head of the marine rescue team talked about how she got them back into the ocean safely.
WGBH Local News
Newton Teacher 'An Isolated Case,' Official Says
Newton superintendent of schools David Fleishman said that though two public employees have been arrested in two weeks on child pornography charges, "most people can be trusted."
Government
Governor's Budget Puts Emphasis On Education
"Education is our calling card around the world," said Mass. Gov. Deval Patrick, introducing a budget proposal that increases state aid to local schools.
WGBH Local News
An Interview With Paul Cellucci
The former governor talks about how he's feeling three years after being diagnosed with ALS. Watch the full interview online now.
WGBH Local News
Governor Pushes For More Municipal Funding
The governor is pushing for an increase in aid to cities and towns today with his Fiscal Year 2013 budget proposal.
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.
WGBH Local News
Michael Pollan: Food Rules
WGBH News' Bob Seay had a chance to speak with the journalist and activist about his newest venture: an illustrated version of his book "Food Rules" that deals with a familiar theme.
WGBH Local News
Rosenstock: Hymn to the Earth
WGBH's Bob Seay went to the Worcester Art Museum to talk with photographer Ron Rosenstock about his new show and his life's work.
Presidents
Listening In At The End Of JFK's Life
On Tuesday, the JFK Library and Museum released the final 45 hours of Kennedy's secret White House recordings for anyone to hear and download.
State of the Commonwealth
Health Care Costs, Community Colleges Top Governor's Address
We have full text and audio of this year's State of the State, in which Gov. Deval Patrick called for stronger community colleges, lower health care costs and passage of the three-strikes bill.
Health
Fighting Dengue Fever With Legos
Little Devices is addressing third-world problems with a technique MacGyver would love: tweaking common toys and gadgets to defuse illness and disability. But is the approach a step backwards?
World News
Italian Cruise Crash Survivor Tells His Story
The passengers of the Costa Concordia were unprepared to escape when the cruise ship ran aground, said Brandon Warrick.
Presidents
Final Grade: The State Of The Union Report Card
Your grades are in on the president's State of the Union address. Check out the report card results ....
Sports
The Giants: Good But Not Great?
"Voice of Fenway" Carl Beane thinks the predictions of a Pats win might be right on the money.
This Week On Beacon Hill
State Of Commonwealth, MBTA Cut Talks Continue
It’s a busy week at the Massachusetts State House, including the state of the state address and the unveiling of Governor Deval Patrick’s budget proposal for fiscal year 2013.
Energy
Home Energy Audits: Digging Deep On Efficiency
An energy efficiency expert finally convinced her dad to look into upgrading his own home. Then the complications began.
Election 2012
Warren Responds To Brown's 'Rock-Thrower' Slam
Democratic Senate candidate Elizabeth Warren defended herself in an exclusive interview with WGBH News, saying, "I stand up for what I believe in."
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.
Election 2012
Touting Bipartisanship, Brown Kicks Off Re-Election Campaign
U.S. Sen. Scott Brown's long-expected re-election run is official.
Red Sox
LOUUUUUUKing Forward To The Red Sox Season
Remember that other sport? With only a month to go before spring training starts, veteran infielder Kevin Youkilis reflects on the team's new manager and prospects for 2012.
Election 2012
Spotlight on the 2012 Mass. Senate Race
As Sen. Scott Brown officially launches his bid for re-election, WGBH News has coverage of the rally plus new interviews with his Democratic competition: Marisa DeFranco, Jim King and Elizabeth Warren — who responds to Brown's kickoff speech swipe.
Economy
Mass. House Passes Spending Increase for Social Programs
The Massachusetts House of Representatives passed a $130 million spending bill on Wednesday that will restore some programs cut from this year's budget.
Technology
A One-Woman Wikipedia
We talk with the librarian who fielded your questions to #altwiki during the Great Wikipedia Blackout of Jan. 18.
Architecture
Jared Bowen's Arts Ahead: Isabella and Donuts
The long-awaited new wing at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum opens to much fanfare. And all of it is deserved.
Technology
On The Day The Internet Went Dark
At the start of this week, most of us had never heard of SOPA or PIPA. But on Wednesday, everyone was talking about the online protest — and in Kendall Square, technologists approved.
Election 2012
Bielat: Kennedy Hasn't Earned Frontrunner Status
Republican Sean Bielat may be tangling with Joseph P. Kennedy III for Congress. Is the Democrat a shoo-in? Bielat told WGBH News, "We wouldn't be having this conversation if his last name weren't Kennedy."
World Health
Diagnosing Disease On A 'Postage Stamp'
Paper is everywhere — in your coffeemaker, on your desk, in the recycling bin. But what if it could save lives? One Cambridge company thinks a slip of paper holds the answer to diagnosing illness cheaply, anywhere.
Economy
Holiday Sales Up In Mass.
Massachusetts retailers say they enjoyed an unexpected 5.1 percent surge in 2011 holiday sales, about twice what was expected.
Technology
Asking An #Alternative Wikipedia
With Wikipedia dark for the day as a political protest, NPR, the Washington Post and the Guardian are teaming up to answer questions tweeted with the hashtag #altwiki. What are people asking?
Energy
Some Doubt State's Wind Turbine Safety Report
A panel of experts has issued a report saying that wind turbines do not pose serious health risks for residents. Opponents claim the report is biased.
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.
Local Voices
Giving Life To A Long-Dormant Language
Thanks to the work of Jessie Little Doe Baird of Mashpee, Mass., the Wampanoag language is the first American Indian language to reclaim itself with no living speakers.
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....
Election 2012
Marisa DeFranco Says She Can Beat Elizabeth Warren
No matter that Democratic Senate frontrunner Elizabeth Warren's campaign chest neared $9 million at the end of 2011: immigration lawyer Marisa DeFranco still thinks she can win the nomination.
Classical
On The Zander Ouster
Did the New England Conservatory overreact when it fired its renowned conductor?
WGBH Special Reports
From The WGBH Vault: Martin Luther King Jr.
We step into WGBH's archives to glimpse a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement with exclusive interviews from three giants: Martin Luther King Jr., James Baldwin and Malcolm X.
Social Issues
To More Americans, Class Matters
A growing number of Americans believe there are class conflicts, according to a new study by the Pew Research Center.
Courts, Crime & Police
Despite Uproar, 'Three Strikes' Bill Still In
Public safety officials, prisoner advocates and judges are arguing over whether or not the state should pass the "three-strikes" law that's currently on the table on Beacon Hill.
Xconomy
Xconomy Report: How Green Was My Startup
A new genomics technology company in Cambridge hopes to examine the genetic makeup of plants, animals and other organisms to find hot new drugs.
Government
Violence Victims To Win Time Off
The Massachusetts state senate passed a bill this week that would give victims of domestic violence up to 15 days of unpaid leave from their jobs.
Weather & National Disasters
Where Did The Money Go In Haiti?
Two years after the quake, some local Haitians have become frustrated with what they see as the slow progress of recovery.
Performing Arts
Jared Bowen's Arts Ahead: Now With Even More Carnage
It's blood and gore all over the place in the Boston arts scene this week. Well, more like razor wit, black comedy and red paint.
Energy
Further Delay Predicted For Cape Wind
The region's wholesale electricity market overseer has determined that Cape Wind will not be ready to generate electricity within the next 3.5 years.
Weather & National Disasters
In Haiti, An Orphanage Shaped Like A 'B'
It’s been two years since a devastating magnitude-7 earthquake leveled much of Haiti, leaving over 300,000 dead. One of them was 19-year-old Rutland native Britney Gengel. Her family is working through its loss by picking up where Britney left off.
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
Fish
To Get The Right Fish, It's Eater Beware
Lawmakers are trying to increase consumer protections against mislabeled seafood — but state health officials say they have limited ability to police fishmongers and restaurants.
Local Politics
Grossman On Murray: 'Our Lives... Are An Open Book'
In an exclusive WGBH News interview, state treasurer Steven Grossman hinted that Lt. Gov. Tim Murray owes the public more information about his early-November crash.
Education
State Names Receiver For Lawrence Schools
As receiver of the Lawrence school system, Boston administrator Jeff Riley will have extensive authority to make changes in the troubled district.
Mental Health
Last Night A Playlist Saved My Life
Take an iPod and call me in the morning: A new book says we can use music to train ourselves to be more productive or more relaxed. What songs work for you? Share them here.
Election 2012
Next Stop, Nomination?
Mitt Romney says the South Carolina GOP primary will be an uphill climb. But one analyst thinks it's downhill all the way from now to the Republican convention.
Health
Lawmakers Debate Proposed Cellphone Ban
Should Mass. ban handheld cellphone use behind the wheel? An advocate for the ban shared his family's tragedy at a Jan. 10 State House hearing.
Election 2012
'Independent' In Name Only?
The proportion of unaffiliated voters is growing in states across the nation but New Hampshire's 40 percent is still unusually high. That said, they might not be as independent as they seem.
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.
Presidents
From The WGBH Vault: The New Hampshire Primary
New Hampshire didn't always command such attention. We go into WGBH's vault for historical recordings showing the primary's rise to prominence.
Election 2012
Politics Is Romney's Career — And That's OK
The author of a new book about Mitt Romney thinks the candidate should embrace his long life in politics instead of trying to distance himself in response to rivals' criticism.
Election 2012
Four Years Later, What's Changed For Romney?
On the surface, Mitt Romney's 2008 and 2012 presidential campaigns look the same: He stresses his business credentials and tries to make the case that he would be the best candidate against Barack Obama. The difference? This time, the polls are predicting a Romney New Hampshire win.
Child Development
'Milking' Language For All It's Worth
Teaching babies to communicate in sign language is popular. Is it effective? That depends on whether you ask the medical establishment or the moms.
Local Politics
Patrick: 'It's Time We Moved On' From Lt. Gov.'s Crash
Gov. Deval Patrick is defending Lt. Gov. Tim Murray, who's been dogged by questions following his November car crash.
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.
Innovation Hub
Clever Gadgets For A New Year
We turn to 2012’s hot gadgets and newest technology and talk about one of those products with its inventor.
Government
What's The Public's Right-To-Know In Lt. Gov. Crash?
Mass. Lt. Gov. Tim Murray continues to resist calls to release his cell phone records from the days surrounding his Nov. 2 car crash. It’s his latest effort to limit access to information about the unusual high-speed, pre-dawn crash — and a watchdog group says it could be hard to force more information out.
Energy
Citizens Energy Gets Political With Latest Ad
While Citizens Energy — headed up by former U.S. Rep. Joe Kennedy — has run ads and public service announcements for years, there’s something different about this one.
Innovation Hub
Innovation Hub: Jobs, Jobs, Jobs
The new unemployment rate is giving hope to those who are out of work. Our experts share some ways you can improve your personal jobs outlook. INNOVATION HUB
Xconomy
Xconomy Report: More For Less In 2011
Fewer deals, more money. That’s the takeaway from a new report on U.S. venture capital exits from 2011. Among the Boston companies that went public in that time: Zipcar, TripAdvisor and Carbonite.
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.
Election 2012
A New Kennedy In Congress?
Joseph P. Kennedy III is forming an exploratory committee to consider running in the 4th District. Democratic analyst Warren Tolman thinks he could rise to the challenge.
Election 2012
Religion In The 2012 Race
Mitt Romney may get a one-week reprieve from facing an evangelical Protestant voting block but he might not be able to avoid addressing his faith in the race.
Election 2012
Ayyy, Romney!
A candidate's tone of voice can be decisive. So does it help or hurt Mitt Romney if sometimes he sounds a little like... Milwaukee's fictional favorite son?
Local Politics
2012 State House Priorities: Special Ed, Health Care, Budget
Senate President Therese Murray said one of the first items on the Senate’s to-do list is a crackdown on the state’s special education collaboratives.
Health Care
Romney Could Be In The Health Care Crosshairs At Debate
Once his crowning achievement, health care reform has become Mitt Romney’s Achilles heel.
Election 2012
Underdog Again: Brown Faces Tough '12 Contest
He may hold the Senate seat now, but Scott Brown is facing a stiff challenge from Democratic front-runner Elizabeth Warren.
Election 2012
Santorum May Add Supporters In N.H.
Though he hasn't struck sparks in the Granite State so far, Rick Santorum might have an impact in New Hampshire after his surge in Iowa.
Courts, Crime & Police
Tamer Mehanna: 'My Brother Is Passionate'
Tarek Mehanna, his brother said, brought the same passion and scholarship to the study of Islam and Arabic that he'd brought to all his previous interests — and that's why he translated those videos.
Local Politics
Questions Remain About Lt. Gov.'s Crash
The newly released black-box data on Lt. Gov. Tim Murray's November car crash may be creating as many questions as it answers.
Business
Will 2012 See The Filene's Hole Filled?
Pols probably didn't consider this consequence in the lengthy, heated debate over gambling: Casino licensing may finally spur action at the former Filene's site in Downtown Crossing.
Election 2012
Mass. Sets Ballot Order For Presidential Primaries
Ron Paul's name will top the ballot for Massachusetts' March 6 GOP presidential primary. Secretary of State William Galvin said that each vote really does matter.
Election 2012
Outsiders And Opportunists, But No Moderates In Race
One political scientist says our candidates for president are less experienced than ever before — and an outsider can't fix a system they know nothing about.
Election 2012
WGBH Election Central
Energy
Pilgrim Nuclear Turns Back On
The Pilgrim Nuclear Power Plant in Plymouth, Mass. is returning to service after replacing a leaking safety relief valve, a spokesman said on Dec. 30.
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.
Energy
Utility Gets Go-Ahead To Purchase Cape Wind Power
The Mass. Supreme Judicial Court has no problem with the state-sanctioned power purchase agreement between Cape Wind and the utility National Grid, ruling that the deal is in the public's interest.
Courts, Crime & Police
Gaming, Foreclosures And Chelsea On The Front Burner As 2011 Ends
State Attorney General Martha Coakley discussed several of her office's key concerns and cases as the year draws to a close.
WGBH Special Reports
What’s On The Tape? DJ Henry’s Family Still Doesn’t Know
The family of Danroy “DJ” Henry has turned down an offer from the Westchester Country district attorney’s office to review surveillance tape that was recorded the night of the shooting. The offer was predicated on the condition that the family not make public what is on the tapes.
History
Town's Historic Tree May Be Saved
In Westport, Mass., a 200-year-old linden tree threatened by a sidewalk may yet wave another day (or century). A "Greater Boston" web exclusive.
Energy
Nuclear Plant Shut Down For Second Time In Two Months
The Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station in Plymouth, Mass., was shut down on Dec. 26 because a safety relief valve was leaking steam. The reactor was also shut down in mid-November due to mechanical concerns.
WGBH Local News
Church Arsonist Gets Nearly 14 Years In Prison
On Nov. 5, 2008, shortly after Barack Obama was elected president of the United States, Michael Jacques and two other men set an African American church on fire in protest. The Macedonia Church of God in Christ in Springfield, Mass. burnt to the ground. On Dec. 22, Jacques received his sentence.
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.
Immigration
Art For English's Sake
At Harvard, a program uses art to hone immigrants' language skills in preparation for the U.S. citizenship exam.
WGBH Local News
Are Somerville’s Holiday Lights Growing Dim?
Lights are important symbols in the winter holidays of many traditions. But this year, we noticed one Massachusetts city that prides itself on a bright tradition appears to be a little dimmer. WGBH News decided to see what’s behind the change, and profiles how we live around the holidays.
Xconomy
Xconomy Report: This Is Boston, Not Seattle... Right?
It’s beginning to look a lot like the West Coast around here as Amazon reportedly considers opening an office in Cambridge.
World News
Have We Lost Sight Of Peace?
A former Bush State Department official said he wouldn't support invading Iraq if he could do it all over again — and wonders if peace is still the goal of our wars.
Movies
Films For The Winter Break
Need a break from the family? Eager to catch up on all the movies you missed? Our critics have recommendations for your vacation viewing.
Government
Auditor Wants 'Immediate' Reforms
Auditor Suzanne Bump is optimistic that her office's new report will spur improvement in the agencies that determine a defendant's eligibility for a court-appointed lawyer.
Election 2012
Romney's First Day In The Oval Office
Former Mass. Governor Mitt Romney is making resolutions not for 2012 but for 2013. In an interview on “The Howie Carr Show,” he discussed his plans for his very first day as president.
Health Care
Hospitals Face Increasing Drug Shortages
There is a strong chance that should you land in an emergency room anywhere in the country, doctors won’t have all the drugs needed to treat you. WGBH News and the New England Center for Investigative Reporting looked at how drug shortages are changing emergency care.
Health Care
State Settles ‘Important’ Medicaid Fraud Claim With Merck
Attorney General Martha Coakley said the $24 million settlement sends the message that Massachusetts won't tolerate Medicaid fraud.
Courts, Crime & Police
First Amendment Advocates Respond To Mehanna Verdict
The conviction of Tarek Mehanna on charges that he conspired to help al-Qaida and plotted to kill US soldiers raises questions about freedom of speech in a lengthy war on terror.
Communications & Media
Pick A Slogan For The Occupy Movement
It's your turn to play Don Draper. What slogan would really set the Occupy movement’s cause on fire? Some of your ideas are....
Social Issues
Get The Most Bang For Your Charity Buck
Donors want to know their donation will be put to good use, but determining how their money is spent is difficult.
Technology
Texting While Walking Draws Safety Concerns — And An App
They’re everywhere: stumbling on sidewalks, ambling across busy streets, even falling into fountains — the cell phone zombies. But, inevitably, there's an app to help them.
War & Conflict
Soldier's Death An Accident?
Army Sgt. Brent McBride, facing murder charges for allegedly killing Sgt. Matthew Gallagher of Falmouth, testified on Dec. 17 that Gallagher died while playing a game of "quick-draw."
Education
Wilson's UMass Perks Not Unusual, Observers Say
UMass is launching a probe into the former president's sabbatical pay. However, this kind of benefit has become the norm in public higher ed.
Education
X Marks The Spot For MIT Online Ed
The new MITx online learning platform will offer students interactive labs, discussions and the opportunity to earn MIT credentials, provost Rafael Reif said.
Technology
Happy Holidays From WGBH
At WGBH, even the editing boards get into the holiday spirit....
WGBH SPECIAL REPORT
Occupy: What Would Don Draper Do?
The Occupy movement has taken a beating in the press and elsewhere — and finds its image in desperate need of repair. For a fix, we look to an unlikely source: the advertising industry.
Red Sox
Former Batboy Talks About Alleged Abuse In Sox Clubhouse
Another man has joined the list of Red Sox attendants who say they were molested by deceased club manager Donald Fitzpatrick.
Election 2012
Robinson Drops Bid For Senate
Newton engineer Herb Robinson is dropping out of the race for the seat currently held by Scott Brown, saying that candidate Elizabeth Warren "has pretty much wrapped up the Democratic race."
Xconomy
Xconomy Report: Fight Fat With Fat
A new Boston firm has raised $34 million to develop drugs that tap into a new understanding of brown fat, a tissue that could help people burn off the more-familiar white fat.
Animals
The Intelligent Octopus
Sorry, Fluffy and Whiskers. A naturalist and author has found that octopuses are smarter by far.
Election 2012
The Strategy Behind Early Senate Ads
The onslaught of campaign ads makes most voters dizzy — especially when they appear almost a full year before an election. Are Mass. Senate candidates wasting their money?
Election 2012
Enthusiasm Low Among Some N.H. Voters
This year, the voters in the Republican hotbed of Salem, N.H. seem unexcited about their options for next month's primary.
Economy
Unemployment Drops: Why?
Increased spending on arts, entertainment, dining out and recreation may be behind the latest Mass. unemployment rate, which dropped to 7 percent in November.
Transportation & Infrastructure
Phone Calls In The Car OK — If They're Hands-Free
The Massachusetts-based advocacy group Safe Roads Alliance thinks the National Transportation Safety Board might be going too far in its recommendation that states ban all use of cellphones behind the wheel,
Holidays
Reclaim The Holidays: Give Time
In this stressed era, some are finding ways to un-commercialize the holidays.
Gambling
Gaming Chairman: 'The Public Is Very Skeptical'
New gaming commission chairman Stephen Crosby told WGBH News that upholding ethics was his top concern.
Education
Harvard's Vampires 101
No, not sleepless freshmen. A new Harvard Extension course has attracted hundreds of people thirsting for knowledge about the vampire in literature and film.
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.
Gambling
Republican Policymaker To Lead Gaming Commission
The state's powerful new gambling board will be a bipartisan affair: Gov. Deval Patrick has named Stephen Crosby, a former Republican Party official, as the chairman.
U.S.
Post Office Agrees To Delay Closings
The U.S. Postal Service has agreed to delay the closing of 252 mail processing centers and 3,700 local post offices until mid-May. This week, WGBH News explores the question of whether two of these offices matter to the people of Cambridge, Mass.
Research News
Two Studies Find Growing Income Inequality In Region
The Occupy movement has brought the issue of income inequality to the fore. Two new reports from MassINC and the Metropolitan Area Planning Council show that the divide between the Boston region's haves and have-nots is getting wider.
War & Conflict
Lt. Gov. Murray: Hire Vets!
Lt. Gov. Tim Murray said that hiring veterans isn't a question of charity: It's good for business.
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.
WGBH Local News
Signed, Sealed, Discontinued? Post Offices In Cambridge
You may buy your stamps at the supermarket and pay your bills online, but are you ready to see your neighborhood post office close? WGBH News looks into two Cambridge locations on the list for discontinuance.
Election 2012
Conroy Endorses Warren After Leaving Senate Race
Wayland State Rep. Tom Conroy called Elizabeth Warren "a very strong candidate" in the race for Senate — a race he left on Dec. 12.
Music
An Off-The-Beaten-Path Holiday Music Playlist
With holiday festivities in full swing, we bring your our (and your) official WGBH News Off-the-Beaten-Path Holiday Playlist. Here are a few highlights....
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
This Week On Beacon Hill
Gov. Seeks Gambling Head, Hears Revenue Forecast
The Governor is back on Beacon Hill Monday, fresh from a trade mission to Brazil and Chile. This week, he'll weigh a pick for the casino-gaming commission and hear a tax-revenue forecast. Meanwhile, some are pushing to legalize the sale of alcohol in Mass. on the day after Christmas.
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.
Local Voices
Occupy: A Suburban View
Alex Ingram, a spokesman for Occupy Boston, told WGBH News that the movement had to get its message out to the suburbs. We went to Weymouth, a suburb that walks a political tightrope, to see what residents thought.
WGBH SPECIAL REPORT
Occupy Boston In The Small Hours
WEB EXCLUSIVE: The details of how the eviction turned into an "evict-ory."
Live Performances
Jared Bowen's Arts Ahead: Kathleen Turner And The Rockettes
Go light or go dark with this week's round-up of arts events: the Rockettes, "Shame," "New Year's Eve" and Kathleen Turner as a rehab counselor.
Business
State's Innovation Economy Draws International Deals
Gov. Deval Patrick is finishing his nine-day trade mission to South America excited by new collaborations with countries there.
Xconomy
Xconomy Report: Protecting Online Privacy
When you go online, do you know which eyes are watching you? Boston startup Abine is trying to give consumers more control over their personal information.
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.
Government
Sen. Kerry: This Man's Walk Talked
Sen. John Kerry talks about why he supported cross-country walker B.J. Hill's effort to deliver thousands of people's letters to President Obama.
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.
Gambling
Predicting Casinos' Impact On The Bay State
Observers say that casinos will have a major impact on both the state's bottom line and politicians' careers.
Weather & National Disasters
WGBH News 2012 Winter Weather Outlook
Ready to swap your T-shirt for a parka? Hold off. A meteorologist says temperatures this winter will likely be at or above average.
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?
Government
Laying The Groundwork For A Third Party In 2012
The political group Americans Elect is inviting the public to choose its presidential nominee, betting that voter disaffection will make 2012 a strong year for third parties.
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.
People & Profiles
Debbie DiMasi's New Life
In her first interview since parting with her incarcerated husband Sal DiMasi, Debbie DiMasi opened up to WGBH News' Emily Rooney about the transition, her health and Boston media.
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.
World News
Egyptian Voters Cross Inked Fingers
A "massive" number of Egyptian voters wonder whom the polls will bring to office in the countries first post-Mubarak elections.
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.
Election 2012
'Obamacare' Is 'Romneycare,' Economist Says
An MIT economist who helped craft President Barack Obama’s affordable care act told WGBH News that like it or not, Republican presidential hopeful Mitt Romney is the “hero of national health care reform.”
Forensics & Investigations
Inmates' Access To DNA Evidence: Part Two
Legislators are considering a bill that would allow inmates access to DNA evidence that was critical to their convictions. Advocates say the law can help free the innocent. Opponents believe the bill might serve to assist the guilty.
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.
Forensics & Investigations
Inmates' Access To DNA Evidence: Part One
The Boston Globe reported Nov. 20 that Mass. inmates have an unusually difficult time getting access to DNA evidence that might exonerate them. WGBH News asked whether that evidence might help Tyrone Dixon, a man serving life.
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?
Social Issues
The Face Of Foreclosure In Mass.
A photo exhibit traveling to Springfield documents families as the banks move in — and they try not to move out.
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.
Energy
Energy In The Ether?
Wireless electricity offers the promise of a life free from the worry of losing one's phone charger — or maybe even losing power after a storm.
Greater Boston
The Middle Class Index: Is The Dream Deferred?
Greater Boston received exclusive access to research conducted by independent think tank Mass Inc. about whether or not Massachusetts residents believe the American Dream is still attainable.
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
ISSUES & IDEAS
Today At WGBH: TEDx New England
Watch at your computer on November 1 as thinkers discuss innovations and ideas worth acting on at the WGBH studios.
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
Olver And Khazei Faced Likely Defeat, Analysts Say
The state's redistricting plan will likely combine the western Mass. and Worcester Congressional regions — and experts think that made long-time Rep. John Olver choose retirement over running for re-election.
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.
Greater Boston
Man Ray And Lee Miller At The Peabody Essex Museum
On view at the Peabody Essex Museum right now are scenes from an affair both torrid and tempestuous. When artist Man Ray met model Lee Miller, they fell madly in love and produced some of the twentieth century's most celebrated works.
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.
WGBH SPECIAL REPORT
DJ Henry Coda: The Case Today
Danroy “DJ” Henry was killed on October 17, 2010 as he pulled away from a popular nightspot in the village of Thornwood, New York. In a coda to our series DJ Henry And The Training Of Police, we follow up on the tributes, the lawsuits and the lives that were forever changed.
Bob Seay Debriefs
Power In Libya: What’s Next?
With Gadhafi gone, people around the globe wonder what party or person will rise to the top in a country that finally has the chance for democratic rule. WGBH’s Bob Seay talked with Matthew Bell, Middle East correspondent for The World, about the future of Libyan politics.
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.
TECHNOLOGY
Experts Warn Against Digital 'Babysitters'
THE EMILY ROONEY SHOW: CHILDREN IN A TOUCH-SCREEN WORLDGREATER BOSTON: MANDATORY IPADS IN THE CLASSROOM
Touch-screen devices and tablets can be educational for children, experts said — but parents have to be in charge.
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.
WGBH SPECIAL REPORT
The Death of DJ Henry: Complete Coverage from WGBH News
WGBH News has been covering the shooting death of Danroy “DJ” Henry, the Pace University football player from Easton, Massachusetts, since it happened in October 2010. Since the shooting, Henry’s death has continued to stir controversy over issues of police training and race.
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.
THE CALLIE CROSSLEY SHOW
First Generation To College
If no one in your family has gone to college, higher education may seem like an impossible goal. Three prominent Bostonians—the first in their families to attend college— talk about their road to success.
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.
PUBLIC HEALTH
Parents Should Safeguard Prescription Drugs, Study Says
Over half the Bay State parents in a recent study say their children have ready access to prescription pain relievers.
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.
CAMPAIGN CHECK-IN
Warren Raises $3M, Offers Some Empathy To Wall St. Protesters
In an interview with WGBH's Emily Rooney, Democratic Senate hopeful Elizabeth Warren said she sympathizes with Occupy Boston protesters, even as she raises millions of dollars for her own campaign.
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
Can Obama's Jobs Bill Help The Long-term Unemployed?
Across the country, millions of people have been out of work for months at a time. President Obama is urging Congress to pass his Jobs Bill, which includes incentives for small businesses to hire anyone who's been out of work for over six months. But even if it passes, will President Obama's bill succeed in getting the long-term unemployed to work?
Remembrances
Remembering Steven Paul Jobs
We have a special remembrance of Apple's Steve Jobs in a superb WGBH interview from 1990. It's from a series called The Machine That Changed The World. In it, Jobs talks about how that revolutionary device, the Macintosh personal computer, came to be and the particular gifts of the people who made it a reality.
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.
Greater Boston
Are Civilian Flag Wavers Saving Mass. Money?
The New England Center for Investigative Reporting and Greater Boston look at the use of Civilian Flag Wavers and whether using them at construction sites in lieu of police details really saves the state money.
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.
WGBH Local News
Romney Blames Economic Uncertainty On Obama
Speaking Monday, Republican presidential hopeful Mitt Romney said President Barack Obama was to blame for the economic uncertainty by not paying enough attention to the demands of Congressional Republicans.
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.
Sports & Recreation
Sharing Allows For Budget Boating
Car-sharing is an increasingly popular way of using a car without the hassle of owning one. Now, some Greater Boston residents are taking that approach to the seas with a program that allows you to share a fleet of boats.
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
Lynn Pursues Blue-Collar Cosmopolitanism
The people who live and work in Lynn say the city doesn’t get the respect it deserves. And despite the recession, they’ve got ambitious plans for the future.
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."
Movies
From Boston To Hollywood With Roadside Attractions
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.
Energy
In Lexington, Solar Is Coming
One of the state’s largest alternative energy companies, Evergreen Solar, is in the process of closing its manufacturing plant in Devens. But the landscape for solar manufacturing in Massachusetts isn’t all bleak. A solar startup in Lexington, 1366 Technologies, is looking to open a new plant in Massachusetts.
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.
PHOEBE PRINCE
Suicide Aftermath Still Divides South Hadley
The town of South Hadley is still struggling to come to terms with the death of Phoebe Prince, who took her own life one year ago Friday.
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.
Sports
Best Sports Moments Of 2010
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 Voices
The Afghanistan War: The Status Quo?
We can’t imagine America without the Afghanistan War even though we have done almost everything possible to eliminate terrorism -- except for declare peace. We are numb to this war and it's time to snap out of it.
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.
Travel
Walking Through Life With Bruce Feiler
THANK-YOU GIFTS ARE AVAILABLE
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.
GREATER BOSTON
Customers Worry As Book Fair Goes On Sale
The New England Mobile Book Fair -- which is neither mobile nor a fair -- is up for sale, and its loyal customers are worried an ownership change could threaten a quirkiness that has taken 50 years to develop.
Local Voices
Leaving Afghan Women In The Lurch
The lives of Afghan women and girls—and their very right to be treated as humans—is in danger of becoming a bargaining chip to achieve a so-called “political solution” with the Taliban in order to expedite withdrawal.
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.
CRITICAL MASS: ADAM REILLY ON POLITICS
What The MA Primaries Mean
Massachusetts didn't provide much electoral drama on primary night, but we did offer a test case in whether anti-Washington sentiment can fuel Democrats as well as Republicans. And the answer seems to be: not really.
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.
Commentary
The Rude Belt
If you cut in line at Formaggio Kitchen in Cambridge, others may think, 'What a jerk,' but they’ll also think, 'He’s clearly desperate for fine cheese.
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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