‘Perfect Storm’ debris floated to Ireland

Richard Figueiredo lost all of his lobster traps in the “perfect storm’’ of 1991. Remnants have appeared on local beaches over the years, but never very far from their origin — until now.

Big rise in online purchases made with smaller devices

From Thanksgiving eve to Cyber Monday and throughout this week, more shoppers than ever have been snatching up bargains with their smartphones and tablets.

Republicans split over payroll tax cut extension

Speaker John A. Boehner has told Republicans they would run political risks and could be accused of allowing a tax increase if they block the continuation of payroll tax relief.

Clinton pays visit to home of Suu Kyi

Hillary Rodham Clinton visited the home of Aung San Suu Kyi yesterday and discussed the sudden signs of reform in Myanmar.

Valentine hits road to recruit Ortiz

Installed as manager of the Sox on Thursday afternoon, Bobby Valentine was on the go less than 24 hours later to visit David Ortiz and help support his charity golf event.

Art Review

Chicken Little as a 9/11 metaphor

Artist Nancy Chunn’s “Chicken Little and the Culture of Fear” springs from her post-Sept. 11 examination of the aura of panic that has dominated the last decade.