Boston, MA|News|
Thousands Mourn Fallen Firefighter: Patch PM
Also: whistle-blower says cost-cutting a factor in September gas explosions; whale's jawbone stolen from Cape Cod; and big pot bust at Logan

I am Patch's regional managing editor for Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Rhode Island. I have been a journalist my whole working life, beginning with reporting jobs at newspapers in Florida and later with editing jobs in Ohio and Connecticut. This is my second stint at Patch: the first ran from 2010 to 2013 and the second began in August 2018. A St. Louis native, I will be a Cardinal fan to my dying day.
Also: whistle-blower says cost-cutting a factor in September gas explosions; whale's jawbone stolen from Cape Cod; and big pot bust at Logan

Hundreds of school districts nationwide were recognized for increasing access to AP programs for “underrepresented students.”
Hundreds of school districts nationwide were recognized for increasing access to AP programs for “underrepresented students.”
Also: infant girl in Revere crash dies; third-grader dances in Boston Ballet's "Nutcracker," and Brookline grad wins on "Millionaire."
From classics like “It’s A Wonderful Life” to kid-friendly movies such as “The Polar Express,” every state has a favorite Christmas movie.
From classics like “It’s A Wonderful Life” to kid-friendly movies such as “The Polar Express,” every state has a favorite Christmas movie.
From classics like “It’s A Wonderful Life” to kid-friendly movies such as “The Polar Express,” every state has a favorite Christmas movie.
From classics like “It’s A Wonderful Life” to kid-friendly movies such as “The Polar Express,” every state has a favorite Christmas movie.
Plus, man calls 9-1-1 from Dumpster, nativity scene stirs immigration debate, and school bus driver assaulted in front of kids.
Also, hand grenade found in American Legion post and bullet brought to elementary school.
Also, man imprisoned after 15th drunken driving charge; Liam Neeson's movie bogs down traffic, and lottery player is $4 million richer
Also, landscaper who lost leg in wood chipper thanks rescuers; Boston students stage "die-in"; and manslaughter charged in car v. house case
Plus: Sudbury machinists help build star for Rockefeller Center tree; wood-chipper takes Cape Cod man's leg; and more.
Also, firefighter saves couple who drove off a pier; company devises safe-driving app; and a second sea turtle dies after Cape Cod stranding
Also: Fenway Citgo sign gets landmark status; hospital apologizes to husband for wife's death; and gas work moratoriums stifles development.
Also, state Senate to hold hearing on gas explosions; beloved legislator Fred Berry mourned; and Needham goes gender-neutral.
Plus, Liam Neeson to film in Worcester; cyclist killed by truck; and Cape Cod boating instructor busted on child porn charge.
Plus, money plays big role in two political upsets on Tuesday; an guilty verdict in Cape Cod "House Party" slaying.
Plus, state troopers not guilty in excessive force case and officer hit by woman on her way to church.
Cicilline, Langevin win re-election, too; state bond issues pass easily