Topic: University of Massachusetts Boston

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No child left alone: Volunteers mentor children of inmates

With 2.3 million inmates behind bars in the US, the goal of volunteers in mentor programs for the 2.7 million children of prisoners is: No child left alone. Despite government cuts in funding, the programs continue.
Can debate get heated with no loss of cool?

It is possible for people to debate one another on the issues that matter, and be 'playfully polite.'
Did Qaddafi downfall prompt Mali's Tuareg revolt?

Mali's military has been training to take on Al Qaeda insurgents, but the latest revolt by Mali's nomadic Tuareg people seems inspired by an influx of former Qaddafi fighters and arms.
Three days left: why debt super committee is poised to throw in the towel

By law, the deficit-reducing super committee must deliver a plan to Congress by Wednesday. But the prospects for success are fading to black.
Little girls or little women? The Disney princess effect

In today's highly sexualized environment – where 5-year-olds wear padded bras – some see the toddlers-and-tiaras Disney princess craze leading to the pre-teen pursuit of "hot" looks. Do little girls become little women too soon?
Who is blocking a grand debt deal? Democrats, too, have their limits.

With the White House preparing for negotiations Sunday over a deal on raising the debt ceiling, House Democrats say they will not support cuts in Social Security or Medicare benefits.
US debt crisis: Can a deeply divided 'Gang of Seven' make any progress?

The members of the House and Senate who were appointed to the latest presidential deficit panel represent the starkest partisan views on Capitol Hill. But that could be a good thing.
Exclusive: 1 in 5 Air Force women victim of sexual assault, survey finds

The Air Force is set to release a comprehensive survey about sexual assault, which could become a model as the Pentagon begins to address sexual assault within its ranks more openly.
'Opt-Out Day' fizzles: Air travelers say scans aren't 'a big deal'

Boston's Logan Airport and others nationwide saw no huge 'Opt-Out-Day' boycotts. A few passengers opted out of the scanners, but not enough to cause problems.
Why financial reform might not work as intended

The Senate passed financial reform Thursday, and President Obama will sign it, but many of the tough decisions will be made by federal regulators. How they interpret the bill will be key.
How to plan better for New England floods

Changing rainfall patterns have increased the number and severity of floods. Better forecasts and improved flood management have helped, but planners need to do more to reduce risks and boost community resilience.
House poised to vote on overhaul of financial regulation

The bill gives government new powers to rein in 'too big to fail' companies and to protect consumers. The House is set to vote on the financial-regulation measures Friday.
Boston Globe avoids shutdown – at least for now

Could it produce a prototype that other struggling big-city newspapers could use to survive the current recession?
Students eye cheaper colleges as crisis deepens

Nearly 6 in 10 are considering less prestigious schools in order to trim costs, a survey finds.
College students adapt to high gas prices

Instead of driving, students opt to walk, ride public transportation, or use Zipcar.