US – Saturday, July 4
Rest in peace, Michael Jackson
A week ago today, the world lost one of its most precious treasures. Michael Jackson, the greatest entertainer to ever walk the earth, died tragically from cardiac arrest. While much of the media coverage has focused on the most salacious aspects of his life, Jackson has undoubtedly left a legacy that is bigger, broader and brighter than the words of his detractors.
 
Will Mass. be able to wipe the slate clean?
BOSTON. With Gov. Deval Patrick signing sweeping ethics reform legislation Wednesday, the state is hoping to turn the page after a series of embarrassing accu­sations against former lawmakers in the last year has rattled the public’s faith in government. 
 
Those rainy day feelings saturate the Bay State
BOSTON. For Julianne Mahoney the incessant rain this spring has meant no running outside, only a handful of walks with her  baby and no BBQs at her new house in Norwell.
 
Boston’s summer is an endless bummer
BOSTON. July began Wednesday with torrential downpours, flood warnings and temperatures which struggled to reach the mid-60s.
 
Lockhart holds down the Fourth
BOSTON. The last time Keith Lockhart used his vacation time for Independence Day was about two decades ago.
 
T time: Week of July 3
What to do and where to go.
 
Red Sox must be sad to see June go
MLB. June is over. If you like seeing the sun, that’s a good thing.
 
Big-name signings not on Bruins’ free-agent agenda
The Bruins’ free agency period won’t be as exciting as last year, when they pursued star-crossed Marian Hossa before settling on Michael Ryder.
 
T time: Week of June 25, 2009
Where to go and what to do
 
Updated 01:05, October the 17th, 2008
 

Mayor announces a hiring freeze for Hub

Menino, police commissioner discuss police cuts and crime

Boston Mayor Thomas Menino announces his cost management steps in order to maintain a balanced budget to the media at City Hall on Thursday.
 
Boston Mayor Thomas Menino announces his cost management steps in order to maintain a balanced budget to the media at City Hall on Thursday. Photo: NICOLAUS CZARNECKI/METRO
 

 After more than $1 billion in state budget cuts were passed down Wednesday, Boston Mayor Thomas Menino Thursday announced a hiring freeze for all city departments and expressed concern over potential cuts to community policing so crucial to reductions in crime.

Menino said the city will also review all non-personnel expenditures — such as vehicles, equipment and travel — and conduct an analysis of capital spending projects. He will meet with department heads today to forward the review process.

“This is just the beginning as I look at it,” said Menino, who stressed that the city’s core assets remain secure and Boston has survived similar slumps before.

There are serious concerns, however.

The city is projecting a decrease of $16 million in interest revenue in fiscal year 2009, about the same amount as the Park Department’s budget. And Question One, an initiative that would eliminate the state income tax, could cause the city to lose roughly $300 million in state funding if passed Nov. 4, according to Menino.

Additionally, the city expects an impact on community policing programs that are given partial credit for an 11.7 percent drop in crime this year. Boston Police Commissioner Ed Davis remains confident in the department’s ability to weather the storm.

“We believe right now with the cuts we face that we can maintain the same level of service,” Davis said.

 
 
MMMpod
The June edition of MMMpod features an interview with Perry Farrell on getting Jane's Addiction back together, as well as a talk with actor Ed Helms about his love/hate relationship with a capella music. We also have new music from Phoenix, Magic Magic, Lady Sovereign, and a classic from Booker T. & the MGs. As always, there's a chance to win a whole lot of free music.
 
Metro Life Panel