The Boston Globe

Amazon will begin charging sales tax in Mass.

The world’s largest online merchant said that it has agreed to start collecting the state’s 6.25 percent sales tax next November.

State fines 3 power providers $25m

In an unprecedented move, Mass. regulators imposed nearly $25 million in fines against three power companies for their response to two major storms last year.

Martin Freeman plays Bilbo Baggins in “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey,” the first of director Peter Jackson’s new Tolkien trilogy.

Warner Bros./Associated Press

Movie Review

‘The Hobbit’ marked by striking visuals, slow pace

“An Unexpected Journey” — the first in a planned trilogy for J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Hobbit” — feels like an overproduced amble.

Jurors stuck over Cahill; former aide acquitted

Timothy Cahill’s former campaign manager was acquitted of corruption charges, but the jury said it was deadlocked on the charges against Cahill.

Poor ticket sales in the team’s first season at Gillette Stadium have contributed to a $715,000 cost overrun.

ARAM BOGHOSIAN FOR THE BOSTON GLOBE

Enthusiasm gap for UMass Amherst football

The program’s precipitous attendance drop at Gillette has driven up the cost of the school’s effort to enter the ranks of big-time college football.

Brian McGrory

Christmas in the City is the best gift of the year

Jake and Sparky Kennedy are looking to host a record 4,000 homeless kids at their Christmas in the City extravaganza this Sunday afternoon.

Real or fake beards? Santas split on the issue

In the community of men who portray Santa Claus, there is a longstanding disagreement over the best way to embody the big man.

Lowell candle company shines in Hollywood

The handmade candles produced by Ymittos Candle Manufacturing Co. in Lowell have appeared in 23 films, including “Pirates of the Caribbean” and “Lincoln.”

Casino developers make pitch in Springfield

Rival developers Penn National Gaming and MGM Resorts made their casino pitches to Springfield voters, promising to create jobs and drive economic activity.