Student assignment: It's our choice to make

With your support, in the coming weeks we will achieve meaningful education reforms that will benefit an entire generation of students and the broader community. Today I am asking for your help so we can move forward together. For nearly 25 years we have split the city into three sprawling student assignment zones -- North, East and West More »

NFL strikes out on minority coach hiring this season

What do NFL front offices and the White House have in common? Sadly for both, this has been a season of hiring where diversity has declined. The NFL is 0 for 8 and the White House is 0 for 4 in the early stages of appointments in this term. More »

Concert series to make Joy-ful noise -- for others

While many claim that people only need food, clothing and shelter to sustain them, those in the know add one more element -- music. In this vein, singer/songwriter Ben Rudnick has joined forces with chef Michael Schlow to present a family-friendly concert series at Tico in Boston's Back Bay that not only satisfies those who More »


Black History: James R. Hamm: News dealer, local leader

African American James R. Hamm established one of the oldest news dealer companies in Boston in the late 19th century and exhibited leadership in local affairs. He was born the son of Martha and Braxton Hamm in Henrico County, Va. in 1857. More »

Patrick seeks to modify juvenile sentencing laws

In what is considered to be a key step in creating a fairer system of justice for juveniles, Gov. Deval Patrick filed legislation that would extend the juvenile court jurisdiction from 17 years old to 18 years old and eliminate mandatory life sentences without parole for juveniles convicted of first-degree murder. More »

Lizard Lounge Poetry Jam celebrates Sweet 16

The Boston area has long been an epicenter of poetry and jazz. And for the past 16 years, these artistic proclivities have been shepherded and supported by musician/ playwright Jeff Robinson, creator and host of Lizard Lounge Poetry Jam, which will celebrate its 16th anniversary on Feb. 17 More »