September 2024 Issue
The Fractured, Surprising, and Sobering Truth About Kids and Smartphones
A special report on our Tiktok-scrolling, Snapchat-loving, sleep-deprived teens—and what caregivers need to know to keep kids safe.
Feature
The James Rodwell Case: After 43 Years, A Somerville Man Fights for His Innocence
Convicted of murder on the word of a career informant, James Rodwell has spent the past 43 years trying to prove he didn’t kill a Burlington police captain’s son. Now, with the clock ticking, he’s determined to clear his name.
Charlie Baker’s (Still) Got Game
He now spends his days trying to fix college sports. But if you think our former governor has stopped paying attention to politics, think again.
Do You Give a Seventh Grader a Smartphone?
Two Massachusetts moms share their differing views.
How to Manage Your Teen’s Social Media and Phone Use, According to Experts
Ding, ding, ding: Teens receive 240 app notifications per day—a quarter of them during school.
How to Limit Your Child’s Smartphone Use — and Stick to It
Is your kid always scrolling, even during meals or homework time? Here are four ways to take back control.
Are Smartphones and Screens Good or Bad for Alternative Learners?
We asked two experts to parse the benefits and drawbacks of digital devices for students who learn differently.
The Best Public High Schools in Greater Boston, Ranked for 2024
We crunched the numbers to come up with our annual guide to the region’s top-performing schools. Does your child’s make the grade?
Department
This City Councilor Is Boston’s Brightest Rising Political Star
Council President Ruthzee Louijeune on the local housing crisis, the city’s best Haitian food, and, for once and for all, how to pronounce her last name.
A Grilled Cheese Mystery: My Search for a Simple Sandwich
Innovation can be great. Just keep it out of my kid’s white bread.
The Supermarket Superstardom of Marty the Stop & Shop Robot
Inside the accidental fame of a grocery chain’s slow-rolling sensation.
Fashion + Style
I Hate Cold Water. Can I Handle Contrast Therapy?
Our style editor tries to handle the heat—and the freeze—of this wellness technique.
Overheard: “My Phone Auto-Corrected Your Name to ‘Nasty’”
Our intrepid society columnist reports from Boston’s swankiest affairs, including the American Repertory Theater’s gala and the Rose Garden Party fundraiser for ParkArts.
The Sparkly Sequined Sports Fashion of Mel the Clothing
Boston-based designer Melissa Stern brings glitz to game-day allegiances and pop fandom.
Five Fall 2024 Fashion Essentials, According to Style Experts
Refresh your closet with these cool-weather looks, as recommended by these local tastemakers.
A New England Traveler’s Guide to Saratoga Springs, New York
Go back in time—and get a taste of the future—with an autumn trip to this foodie-friendly destination.
Other
50 Years of ‘Best of Boston’: Kids
In honor of this year’s 50th anniversary of Best of Boston, we’re taking a look back. This month, it’s all about fun for the little ones—and boy, how we’ve grown up over the years.
Home Design
The Spa Who Loved Me (in Medford)
Ben and Catherine O’Sullivan-Pierce turned their grand 1900 Colonial’s guest bedroom space into a luxe bathroom with porcelain tile, a built-in tub, and a steam shower.
So, You Want to Live in Duxbury?
A coastal haven where tranquility meets top-tier schools, this secluded enclave commands premium real estate—and it’s worth every penny.
Real Estate Showdown: An Arts and Crafts-Style Brookline Gem vs. a Rambling Westwood Residence
It’s amazing what a few miles can do to the market. This month, we compare two five-bedroom homes, one in the southwest suburb of Westwood, the other just outside the city in Brookline.
Beacon
Susan Tedeschi Brings the Tedeschi Trucks Band (and Her Signature Telecaster) to Boston
The Norwell native and Berklee alum returns home for three shows this fall.
Fall Arts Preview: 18 Things We Can’t Wait to Do This Season
From Billie Eilish to Romeo and Juliet—a highly subjective list of the concerts, festivals, and performers you shouldn’t miss this season.
Where to Eat in Greater Boston in September 2024
New and exciting restaurants to check out, plus new reasons to visit older spots.
There’s a New Breakfast Restaurant at Encore Boston Harbor
North End titans Frank DePasquale and Nick Varano team up for familial morning and afternoon meals with Giardino.
How Will Gilson’s Amba Aims to Redefine Fast-Casual Dining
With rose petals and rotisserie chicken, the new Eastern Mediterranean counter-service spot from the Puritan & Co. chef soars into East Cambridge.