The latest New England stories on topics like climate change and the environment, the economy, health, racial equity, culture and politics — as reported by newsrooms of the New England News Collaborative, a nine-station consortium of the region's top public media organizations.
For Native Americans, an enduring spiritual connection to the land
For more than 10,000 years before Europeans arrived, the Northeast was home to many tribes with organized leadership and governance; it was among the most prosperous parts of North America. A connection with the land endures — and you care for it like it's a member of the family.
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Despite new law, undocumented immigrants face issues getting driver’s licenses in Massachusetts
A law allowing undocumented immigrants to apply for driver’s licenses in Massachusetts launched in July, but many are struggling to access RMV applications and resources. Staff at western Massachusetts nonprofits have been working overtime to help these immigrants. -
Research on gambling problems was central to Massachusetts' casino law, but scope has been reduced
Massachusetts spends more money on research into problem gambling than most other states, but the available budget has gone down in recent years. This is the third story in our three-part series — "Safe Bet: Is Massachusetts fulfilling its problem-gambling mandate?" -
Solar panels in historic districts: who decides where 'modern' fits?
The 45,000 people who live in Cape Cod's Old Kings Highway Historic District are required to get approval from local committees for visible solar installations. Those who have had their solar plans challenged or denied have described the committees’ decisions as inconsistent, arbitrary, and subjective. -
'Connected by love': In Ridgefield, an old rotary phone helps people cope with grief
In Connecticut and across the United States, ‘wind phones’ provide spaces for people to hold one-way conversations with their loved ones who’ve died. -
Springfield mayoral challenger Justin Hurst denies paying for votes
The allegations involve a campaign worker for mayoral candidate Justin Hurst paying voters after they cast ballots at the early polling place at Springfield City Hall Saturday, which is something Hurst denies.
