State must cover legal immigrants

1/5/2012 Saugus, MA Rev Juarez Goncalves (cq) with his wife, Rev Clauri Goncalves (cq) and their son's Joao Marcos Goncalves (cq)(back left) and Guilherme Goncalves (cq) looking at a photo of their middle son, Samuel Goncalves who died in in October after a bout with cancer in the families living room on Thursday January 5, 2011. (Matthew J. Lee/Globe staff) slug: 06insurance section: metro Reporter:

Matthew J. Lee/Globe Staff

The state’s highest court ruled that the law excluding legal immigrants from subsidized health coverage is a violation of their rights under the Massachusetts Constitution.

Giants of the stage laud, mourn pioneering Hub director Wheeler

David Wheeler’s constancy, his vision of theater as a vitally collaborative endeavor, and his passion for championing provocative new playwrights endured to the end of his life.

Kennedy III explores a run for Frank’s seat

The son of former US Representative Joseph P. Kennedy II is opening an exploratory committee for a run at Barney Frank’s seat.

1-1-12: Foxborough, MA: Patriots offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien may not be working with Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (right) for much longer, he is reportedly in line to become the new head coach at Penn State. They are shown on the field during pre game warmups. The New England Patriots hosted the Buffalo Bills in an NFL regular season game at Gillette Stadium. (Globe Staff Photo/Jim Davis) section:sports topic:Patriots

O'Brien to be coach at Penn State

Bill O’Brien, who has directed the Patriots’ offense the past three seasons, will become the next head coach at Penn State, according to league sources.

Romney seeks to hold ground in N.H. as foes’ attacks intensify

Although he was criticized throughout the day by his Republican rivals, Mitt Romney trained all of his fire yesterday on President Obama.

Salem, NH - 1-5-12 Mitt Romney (cq) campaigns with Sen. John McCain at the Boys and Girls Club. (Globe staff photo / Bill Greene) section:national, topic:06primary

BILL GREENE/GLOBE STAFF

John McCain joined Mitt Romney in Salem.

Portsmouth, NH - 1-5-12 Jon Huntsman (cq) speaks at a business lunch at the Pease International Trade Port. (Globe staff photo / Bill Greene) section:national, topic:06primary

BILL GREENE/GLOBE STAFF

Jon Huntsman spoke in Portsmouth.

Republican presidential candidate, former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, accompanied by his wife Callista, speaks during a town hall meeting, Thursday, Jan. 5, 2012, in Littleton, N.H. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Evan Vucci/Associated Press

Newt Gingrich stopped off in Littleton.

Republican presidential candidate and former Senator Rick Santorum arrives at a campaign stop at the Tilt'n Diner in Tilton, New Hampshire January 5, 2012. REUTERS/Eric Thayer (UNITED STATES - Tags: POLITICS ELECTIONS)

ERIC THAYER/REUTERS

Rick Santorum met voters in Tilton.

Conservatives see S.C. as a chance to choose alternative

If a conservative rebellion is going to keep Mitt Romney from the nomination, Republicans say it could likely start in South Carolina, which holds its primary on Jan. 21.

editorial

For vision and national unity, Huntsman for GOP nominee

Jon Huntsman would be a better president than Mitt Romney, writes the Globe’s editorial page. But if he fails in his quest for the Republican presidential nomination, he could still make Romney a better candidate.

“South Carolina is where the traditional legs of the party are tested — by social conservatives, fiscal conservatives, and national defense Republicans.”

Matt Moore,  executive director of the state’s Republican Party

Metro

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Homeless veterans are target of new housing initiative

Participants in a new federally funded program will receive federal housing vouchers specifically for veterans, mental health services, and psychiatric evaluations.

Business

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Retail sales surge, but not the profits

Many merchants rang up strong sales in December but steep promotions took a toll on the bottom line at some retailers this holiday season.

Nation & World

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Sports

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Bruins 9, Flames 0

Bruins torch the Flames, 9-0

It was the 11th time this season the Bruins have scored six or more goals. Last night, they brought the hammer down quicker than you can say “Thor.’’