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A bartender at the Ground Round in Shrewsbury saved a choking customer by performing the Heimlich maneuver. Justin Goodney's quick action garnered praise from patrons and the restaurant management. The Ground Round brand has recently returned to Massachusetts and has seen considerable success.
A Winchester man, James Fantini, 56, pleaded guilty to secretly videotaping three 15-year-old girls undressing at his home. He faces a two-and-a-half-year prison sentence followed by probation, which includes restrictions on contact with minors. The case highlights ongoing concerns about privacy and safety for young people.
Boston will implement parking restrictions and street closures due to several events from July 12 to September 21, 2025. The Newbury Street series will create a pedestrian-only walkway every Sunday, while the Boston Little Saigon Night Market and concerts at Fenway Park will also require temporary changes. Residents and visitors are encouraged to use alternative transportation methods.
Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox denied allegations of pressuring Officer Kelly Dever to alter her testimony in the Karen Read murder trial. Dever, who faced accusations of perjury, stated she recanted her earlier statement after realizing she left the police station before Read's SUV arrived. Read was acquitted of murder but convicted of operating under the influence.
Republic Services, despite projecting $2.3 billion in free cash flow for 2025, faces a strike from Teamsters Local 25 over wage and benefit disputes. The union claims the company has refused to negotiate fairly, prompting around-the-clock picketing until an agreement is reached. The City Council condemned the company's actions, calling for immediate negotiations to restore waste collection services in Massachusetts.
The Boston City Council urges the WNBA to consider Boston for a new franchise amid speculation of the Connecticut Sun's potential relocation. Local ownership groups have expressed interest, and recent sellout games at TD Garden demonstrate strong community support.
Boston city officials reaffirmed their commitment to equity and inclusion for residents with disabilities as they approach ADA Day. The Disabilities Commission has implemented various accessibility upgrades, including improvements to City Hall Plaza and expanded closed captioning services. This initiative helps address the challenges faced by the 8.3% of Boston residents under 65 who live with disabilities.
The Boston Public Health Commission announced positive West Nile Virus test results from mosquito samples in Hyde Park and West Roxbury. Although no human cases have been confirmed, BPHC urges residents to take preventive measures against mosquito bites.
Shoplifting in Boston has risen 15% compared to last year, according to Police Commissioner Michael Cox. The Safe Shopping Initiative, launched in 2024, aims to combat this trend by collaborating with local businesses and law enforcement to hold shoplifters accountable and enhance safety.
Massachusetts City Council supports legislation to eliminate suspensions of driver’s licenses due to unpaid debts unrelated to driving. The proposed bills aim to alleviate financial burdens on residents facing mobility barriers, enhancing public safety and economic stability.