September 2021 Issue
Boston Is Back to School: What You Need to Know
This September isn’t exactly what students, teachers, or parents imagined on the last day of classes in June. Still, at a time of great uncertainty, one thing is sure: The kids are finally going back. If you find yourself riddled with anxiety and asking an avalanche of questions as your child transitions to in-person learning, rest assured you’re not alone.
Feature
This Man Created a Monster
Thirty years ago, MIT professor Tim Berners-Lee invented the World Wide Web and altered the course of human history. Now, in the face of misinformation, malicious behavior, and the exploitation of personal data online, he’s determined to slay the beast it has become.
Bright Lights, Big City
Bold patterns, look-at-me colors, and fun, flirty silhouettes—let fall’s most glamorous looks take you wherever you want to go this season.
Don’t Nantucket My Newburyport
Famed developer Steve Karp helped transform Nantucket into a glitzy island paradise. Then he set his sights on the seaside jewel of the North Shore. Turns out the townspeople had other plans.
The Best Public High Schools in Greater Boston
We crunched the numbers to come up with our annual guide to the top-performing schools in the region. How does your child’s school stack up?
Department
The Survivor
As a high school freshman, Jamie Forbes was sexually abused by a male teacher at Milton Academy, the elite school that sits on the land his Brahmin family donated. Now he’s out for justice—and to change the culture at private schools in Boston and beyond for good.
The Interview: Jenny Holaday
After months of pandemic-related ups and downs, new Encore president Jenny Holaday is betting she and her team can bring the crowds to the region’s only casino. Will the odds be in her favor?
A Voice Unheard
Black sports stars and comics from out of town often argue that the Hub is America’s most racist city. Many white residents disagree. But guess whose perspective almost no one is listening to? Black Bostonians’.
Home Design
Real Estate Showdown: A Sprawling Berkshires Beauty vs. an Open-Concept Stunner in J.P.
It’s amazing what a few miles will do to the market.
Spaces: A Breath of Fresh Air
Autumn’s chill is no match for this couple’s outdoorsy retreat.
VIEW: Coldwell Banker Realty’s Listings of the Month
Buying a home in or around Boston right now? Check out Coldwell Banker Realty’s newest properties for sale.
Other
What’s a Massachusetts-Style Hot Dog, and Why Haven’t We Heard of It?
Every seasoned grill professional knows about Chicago and New York dogs. But what about the Bay State variety?
Fashion + Style
Best Foot Forward
It’s not just kids who could use a fresh pair of kicks come September—everyone deserves to step into autumn with new shoes. Here’s where to score the best.
Liquid Gold
The buzzy, honey-infused personal-care brand Ivyees lands on the South Shore.
Boston Traveler: Portland
Craft beer, craft coffee, and history around every corner: Maine’s liveliest city is reinvigorating New England’s classic traditions.
Restaurants
Dining Out: A Deep (and Delicious) Dive
The Seaport’s bustling Nautilus Pier 4 scours global coastlines— and comes up with gold.
Health
Fit for Fall
After a summer of sun, sand, and maybe more than a few cocktails, here’s how five busy locals plan to work out this season.
Beacon
The Show Must Go On
From concerts and musicals to drag competitions, live events are back in Boston—and you’re not going to want to miss out.