February 2006 Headlines
Slots no sure bet at Statehouse
Candidates in this year's race for governor remain tight-lipped about a bill that would allow slot machines at the state's four racetracks with most saying the controversial bill needs more study. (By Anne Mostue, 02/26/06)
Youth challenges Pignatelli for seat
Patrick Long is not your typical college student. Yes, he lives in a dorm and takes classes. But in his free time he's running for state office. (By Natalia Pelayo, 02/24/06)
Lunenburg Water District joins lawsuit
The Lunenburg Water District has joined a number of other communities in a lawsuit against major oil and gasoline companies, alleging that the companies' gas stations contaminated local water with the gasoline additive MTBE. (By Natalia Pelayo, 02/23/06)
Scibak, Easthampton resident push for ban on latex gloves
A bill aimed at protecting consumers and workers allergic to latex would ban the use of latex gloves by food workers in all aspects of food production in the state. (By Jim Bildner, 02/23/06)
Area vies for funds, Lawmakers cite Valley's needs
Local legislators warn that Hampshire County's reliance on education, health and social services jobs make its economy vulnerable, as the Legislature begins work on the governor's $25.2 billion budget. (By Jim Bildner, 02/17/06)
Area moms getting good prenatal care
A state report says expectant moms in the Milford area receive better care and give birth to babies healthier than the state and national averages. (By David Undercoffler, 02/20/06)
Bill concerns immigrant advocates
U.S. citizens could be punished for assisting immigrants who enter the country illegally, if a bill on Capitol Hill becomes law. (By Natalia Pelayo, 02/16/06)
Bill would improve parental access to school records
Sam Kopper of Hingham wanted to take a look at his daughter's school records. (By Matt Lynch, 02/17/06)
Bill concerns immigrant advocates
U.S. citizens could be punished for assisting immigrants who enter the country illegally, if a bill on Capitol Hill becomes law. (By Natalia Pelayo, 02/16/06)
Pols delay vending machine vote
Lawmakers decided to delay a vote on restrictions on school vending machines, but Waltham schools said they have already trimmed their fat and wouldn't be affected by the proposed law. (By Jessica Scarpati, 02/16/06)
Local firms OK with tax audit
While officials at some biotechnology companies across the state wring their hands over a sales tax audit that could cost them hundreds of thousands of dollars, local companies say they are in the clear. (By Jessica Scarpati, 02/10/06)
$400M sought Panel calls for more funding for higher ed
Saying higher education in Massachusetts is at a crossroads, a joint committee of the House and Senate unanimously endorsed legislation Wednesday that would significantly increase funding to higher education, while capping student charges and fees. (By Jim Bildner, 02/09/06)
Tax break could assist seniors
Camille Jasmin is wearing heavier sweaters than usual, but not because it's any colder this year. (By Jessica Scarpati, 02/06/06)
Reilly sputtering in early campaign
Democratic activists and political experts reacted skeptically yesterday after Attorney General Thomas F. Reilly said that politics were "not my strong suit" amid the fallout of his running mate dropping out of the race. (By Erik Arvidson and Natalia Pelayo, 02/03/06)
Soda vending ban doesn't strike schools as sweet idea
A plan to ban soda from school vending machines faces opposition, and not just from the soft-drink industry. (By Matt Lynch, 02/03/06)
New senior drug program irons out problems
After a month of confusion for seniors dealing with new state and federal regulations regarding Prescription Advantage and Medicare Part D, Milford health care officials say the system covering prescription drugs now is working well. (By David Undercoffler, 02/03/06)
Many see hard road ahead for Reilly
Tom Reilly's announcement of state Rep. Marie St. Fleur as his running mate in the race for governor Tuesday surprised even his closest supporters. (By Erik Arvidson and Natalia Pelayo, 02/03/06)
Sex-ed fireworks: Angry debate ahead
More heated, often angry debate on the issue of sex education seems likely on Beacon Hill, and it may not subside for months. (By Matt Lynch, 02/01/06)
Local town officials worry about reduction in road repair funds
An Audubon Society ranking of what it sees as environment-friendly legislators separates South Shore legislators along strict party lines. (By David Undercoffler, 02/01/06)
Audubon ratings of legislators split along party lines
An Audubon Society ranking of what it sees as environment-friendly legislators separates South Shore legislators along strict party lines. (By Matt Lynch, 02/01/06)