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NAACP and BHA discrimination

Description: Meg Vaillancourt reports on negotiations in court between the Boston Housing Authority (BHA) and the NAACP over compensation for minority families who were victims of the BHA's discriminatory housing policies. Vaillancourt notes that the BHA and the NAACP disagree on the number of families to be compensated and the amount of compensation due to them. Vaillancourt interviews Dianne Wilkerson (NAACP) and Albert Willis (Attorney, City of Boston) about the negotiation. Vaillancourt adds that negotiations will continue until the next court date. Vaillancourt reports that the first African American families moved into a South Boston housing project last month as part of the court-ordered plan to integrate public housing. Vaillancourt's report is accompanied by footage of African American movers at the Mary Ellen McCormack Housing Development and by footage of white residents of South Boston housing projects.
1:00:07: Visual: Footage of white children outside of a housing project building in South Boston. The children are keeping cool with a garden hose and a wading pool. Shots of two white women outside of the housing project building; of a baby playing in a wading pool. Meg Vaillancourt reports on the court case concerning the Boston Housing Authority's public housing placement policy. Vaillancourt reports that federal authorities have charged the Boston Housing Authority (BHA) with discriminatory practices; that the BHA has agreed to reorganize its policy of assigning tenants to public housing. Vaillancourt reports that the first African American families moved into a South Boston Housing Project last month; that the BHA has not decided how to compensate African American families who had been passed over in favor of whites on the waiting list. V: Shots of African American movers moving furniture and boxes from a moving truck into the McCormack Housing Development in South Boston. Vaillancourt reports that the city calls the African American families "disadvantaged." Vaillancourt notes that the city estimates that about 100 families have been "disadvantaged" by the policy. V: Shots of African American adults and children outside of a public housing project building. Vaillancourt reports that the NAACP has estimated that more than 2,000 African American families were passed over on the BHA waiting list; that the NAACP has brought a lawsuit against the city to gain compensation for those families. V: Footage of Dianne Wilkerson (attorney for the NAACP) speaking to reporters. Wilkerson says that the NAACP has always believed that the number of victims is approximately 2,000 families; that the BHA will end up finding that the NAACP's estimate is correct. Footage of Albert Willis (Attorney, City of Boston) being interviewed by Vaillancourt. Willis says that he does not know where the NAACP has gotten its numbers. Willis says that the BHA will discuss compensation beyond 100 families if the NAACP can provide evidence to back up its estimate. Shots of African American children playing outside of a public housing project. Vaillancourt reports that the NAACP and the city of Boston disagree on the amount of compensation for the "disadvantaged" families. V: Shot of a Boston Globe newspaper article with a headline reading, "1,200 said to be victims of BHA racial practices." Vaillancourt notes that the Boston Globe newspaper reported that the BHA would pay $750 to each family. Vaillancourt adds that the NAACP wants each family to receive between $3,000 and $5,000. V: Shots of the exterior of the NAACP offices in Roxbury; of NAACP employees and volunteers in the NAACP offices. Footage of Willis saying that the money issue has been discusses by the city and the NAACP; that the discussions were productive. Vaillancourt reports that both sides said that the negotiations were productive. Vaillancourt notes that no issues were actually resolved; that the negotiations will continue until the next court date on Wednesday. Vaillancourt adds that the court will decide if the integration plan can continue if the two sides fail to reach an agreement.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 08/09/1988

Nthabiseng Mabuza

Description: Meg Vaillancourt profiles Nthabiseng Mabuza, a teenager from South Africa. Mabuza was 12 years old when she was paralyzed from injuries sustained during a raid of her home by South African security forces. The Fund for a Free South Africa has helped Mabuza and her family settle in Boston. She will receive medical care and here and willl teach local students about life under apartheid. Interview with Mabuza about growing up in South Africa under apartheid. Interview with her mother Anna Mabuza about the raid on their home by security forces. Interviews with Dr. Jane Schaller of the Floating Hospital and Themba Vilakazi of the Fund for a Free South Africa about their work with Nthabiseng Mabuza.
1:00:04: Visual: Footage of Nthabiseng Mabuza (South African girl) talking about being shot by South African security forces. Meg Vaillancourt reports that Mabuza was 12 years old when South African security forces raided her home in South Africa. Vaillancourt reports that Mabuza's aunt was killed in the raid; that her uncle was wounded. V: Shot of Mabuza sitting on a couch with Anna Mabuza (mother of Nthabiseng Mabuza) and her sister. Footage of Anna Mabuza talking about escaping from the Security Forces when they raided the house. Anna Mabuza talks about the members of her family who were shot by the security forces. Anna Mabuza says that Nthabiseng Mabuza is lucky to be alive. Footage of Nthabiseng Mabuza saying that violent raids by the Security Forces are common in South Africa. Shots of a photo of Nthabiseng Mabuza with a group of black children; of a photo of the father of Nthabiseng Mabuza. Vaillancourt reports that Nthabiseng Mabuza's father had been an active member of the African National Congress (ANC). Vaillancourt notes that the ANC has been banned in South Africa; that its members are considered terrorists. Vaillancourt reports that the Mabuza family lived in Botswana; that Nthabiseng Mabuza's father died in 1983. Vaillancourt reports that South African Security Forces attacked the Mabuza family in a cross-border raid. V: Shot of a color photo of Nthabiseng Mabuza. Footage of Dr. Jane Schaller (Floating Hospital) saying that Nthabiseng Mabuza had been shot in the abdomen and in the back; that Nthabiseng Mabuza's spinal cord was damaged. Schaller says that Nthabiseng Mabuza is paralyzed. Footage of Nthabiseng Mabuza in a wheel chair. A mechanical device allows her to be transported up the front stairs of a home. Anna Mabuza wheels Nthabiseng into the house. Vaillancourt reports that the Fund for a Free South Africa has helped Nthabiseng Mabuza settle in Boston; that Mabuza will teach local students about life under apartheid. V: Footage of Nthabiseng Mabuza being interviewed by Vaillancourt. Nthabiseng Mabuza says that it is hard for local students to understand what life is like under apartheid. Nthabiseng Mabuza says that children in South Africa grow up with apartheid; that black children in South Africa know danger and fear. Shot of her sister in the room with Nthabiseng Mabuza. Vaillancourt reports that Nthabiseng Mabuza will go to school full-time next month; that Nthabiseng Mabuza will receive free physical therapy from Boston Floating Hospital. V: Footage of Nthabiseng Mabuza working with her physical therapist. Footage of Schaller saying that doctors are trying to work with Nthabiseng Mabuza. Schaller says that she does not know if Nthabiseng Mabuza will ever walk again. Footage of Nthabiseng Mabuza in a wheelchair. She wheels herself through the house and into a room. Audio of "I'm Forever Your Girl" by Paula Abdul plays in the background. Shot of Nthabiseng Mabuza in her bedroom. Vaillancourt reports that Nthabiseng Mabuza has kept her spirits up in the face of hardship. V: Footage of Themba Vilakazi (Fund for a Free South Africa) saying that Nthabiseng Mabuza is like many people who live in South Africa. Vilakazi says that Nthabiseng Mabuza is optimistic and hopeful about the future. Shots of Nthabiseng Mabuza in her bedroom. Shots of posters on the wall; of Nthabiseng Mabuza reading a book; of her sister playing with a doll. Footage of Nthabiseng Mabuza being interviewed by Vaillancourt. Nthabiseng Mabuza says that she wants to meet other people her age. Shot of a color photo of Nthabiseng Mabuza in Africa.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 01/18/1990

Nthabiseng Mabuza awaits Mandela

Description: Meg Vaillancourt talks to Nthabiseng Mabuza, who was exiled from South Africa, about the upcoming visit by Nelson Mandela to Boston. Mabuza will sing a welcome for Mandela when he visits Madison Park High School tomorrow. She practices her welcome song. Interview with Mabuza, who was only twelve years old when she was paralyzed from injuries sustained during an attack on her home by South African security forces. Interview with her month Anna Mabuza and Jane Schaller from the New England Medical Center, Floating Hospital. The Fund for a Free South Africa has helped Mabuza and her family settle in Boston. Nthabiseng Mabuza also talks about the inhumane policies and practices of the South African government. She says that she is not bitter about what happened to her. Mabuza talks about the importance of achieving democracy in South Africa.
1:00:06: Visual: Footage of Nthabiseng Mabuza (South African exile in the US) singing a song about South Africa. Meg Vaillancourt reports that Mabuza was born in South Africa; that her father was a member of the African National Congress (ANC). V: Footage of Mabuza being interviewed by Vaillancourt. Mabuza talks about being shot by South African Security Forces when they raided her home. Vaillancourt reports that Mabuza was twelve years old when South African Security Forces raided her home; that her aunt was killed in the raid; that an uncle was wounded; that her mother barely escaped. V: Shot of a color photo of Mabuza as a young girl. Footage of Anna Mabuza (mother of Nthabiseng Mabuza) being interviewed by Vaillancourt. Anna Mabuza says that Nthabiseng Mabuza is lucky to be alive. Footage of Dr. Jane Schaller (New England Medical Center, Floating Hospital) describing Nthabiseng Mabuza's injuries. Schaller says that Nthabiseng Mabuza was shot in the abdomen and in the back. Schaller says that Mabuza is paralyzed from the chest down. Shot of Nthabiseng Mabuza maneuvering herself into her wheelchair. Vaillancourt reports that the Fund for a Free South Africa (charity) has helped Nthabiseng Mabuza come to Boston; that Nthabiseng Mabuza is receiving free medical care at the Floating Hospital. Vaillancourt reports that Nthabiseng Mabuza is teaching local students about life under apartheid. V: Footage of Nthabiseng Mabuza being interviewed by Vaillancourt. Nthabiseng Mabuza talks about the cruel treatment of an eight-year old boy at the hands of the South African government. Nthabiseng Mabuza says that children and adults are imprisoned and killed by the South African government. Footage from January of 1990 of Nthabiseng Mabuza working with her physical therapist. Vaillancourt reports that Nthabiseng Mabuza has physical therapy twice a week; that doctors are doing what they can for her. Vaillancourt reports that Nthabiseng Mabuza keeps her spirits up; that she has responded to her trials with courage and dignity. V: Footage of Nthabiseng Mabuza in a wheelchair. She wheels herself through the house and into a room. Audio of "I'm Forever Your Girl" by Paula Abdul plays in the background. Shot of Nthabiseng Mabuza in her bedroom. Footage of Nthabiseng Mabuza being interviewed by Vaillancourt. Vaillancourt asks Nthabiseng Mabuza if she is bitter. Nthabiseng Mabuza says that she gets angry sometimes; that she is not bitter. Nthabiseng Mabuza says that South African citizens must work toward achieving a democratic society. Vaillancourt reports that Nthabiseng Mabuza will meet Nelson Mandela (ANC leader) tomorrow; that Nthabiseng Mabuza will talk to Madison Park High School students about the struggle against apartheid; that Nthabiseng Mabuza will sing a welcome for Mandela. V: Shot of Nthabiseng Mabuza on her bed. She takes off her shoes and begins to study a notebook. Audio of Nthabiseng Mabuza singing a song. Audio of Nthabiseng Mabuza saying that she was not yet born when Mandela went to prison; that today's youth will be tomorrow's leaders. Footage of Nthabiseng Mabuza singing her welcome for Mandela.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 06/22/1990

Nthabiseng Mabuza talks about Mandela

Description: Meg Vaillancourt interviews Nthabiseng Mabuza about the release of Nelson Mandela. Vaillancourt notes that Mabuza was only twelve years old when she was paralyzed from injuries sustained during an attack on her home by South African security forces. The Fund for a Free South Africa has helped Mabuza and her family settle in Boston. Vaillancourt's report includes footage recorded in January, 1990 of Mabuza talking about the raid on her home by security forces. Mabuza talks about the importance of Mandela's struggle; she adds that she is happy about his release. She had first heard about Mandela when she was a child. Mabuza says that she hopes to return to South Africa one day. Interview with Nthabiseng's mother, Anna Mabuza, about Mandela's release. Anna Mabuza says that she is afraid to return to South Africa because she fears reprisals from the government. Following the edited story is additional silent b-roll footage of Nthabiseng Mabuza and Anna Mabuza in their home. This edition of the Ten O'Clock News also included the following items: Hope Kelly reviews the major events and key issues during the tenure of Laval Wilson
1:00:04: Visual: Shot of a color photo of Nthabiseng Mabuza (Cambridge resident) as a young girl in Africa. Audio of shots being fired. Meg Vaillancourt reports that Mabuza was only twelve years old when South African Security Forces raided her home; that the Security Forces wounded her uncle and killed her aunt. Vaillancourt notes that Mabuza was paralyzed from shots fired during the raid. V: Footage from January 18, 1990 of Mabuza talking about the raid. Vaillancourt reports that the Mabuza family was targeted because of their connection to the African National Congress (ANC); that Mabuza's father was a member of the ANC; that the ANC was banned in South African until last month. V: Shot of Mabuza getting into her wheelchair and wheeling herself through her house. Shot of a black and white photo of Mabuza's father. Vaillancourt notes that Mabuza's father had already died before the raid took place. V: Footage of Mabuza being interviewed by Vaillancourt. Mabuza says that she had heard of Nelson Mandela (ANC leader) and the other leaders jailed in Robbin Island when she was a young child. Mabuza says that she now understands the importance of Mandela and his struggle. Shot of a poster reading "Free Nelson Mandela." Vaillancourt reports that Mabuza's father had worked with Mandela; that the Mabuza family is watching the changes in South Africa with interest. V: Shot of Mandela in South Africa. Mandela walks with a raised fist. Shots of black South Africans cheering for Mandela; of a young child at a rally for Mandela; of Mandela speaking to supporters. Shots of Nelson Mandela and Winnie Mandela (wife of Nelson Mandela) waving to supporters. Audio of Mabuza saying that she watched Mandela's release on television; that she is happy about his release from prison. Vaillancourt asks if she misses South Africa. Mabuza says that she does miss South Africa. Mabuza talks about Mandela's commitment to his struggle. Footage of Mabuza saying that she was shot because of that same struggle. Footage of Anna Mabuza (mother of Nthabiseng Mabuza) saying that she is happy about Mandela's release from prison. Vaillancourt reports that the Mabuza family has moved to Cambridge; that the Fund for a Free South Africa (charity organization) helped to find housing and medical assistance for Nthabiseng Mabuza. Vaillancourt notes that Nthabiseng Mabuza will start high school next month. V: Shots of Nthabiseng Mabuza in her bedroom. She maneuvers herself from her wheelchair to the floor. Nthabiseng Mabuza turns on the television. Anna Mabuza joins Nthabiseng Mabuza in front of the television. Shot of the younger sister of Nthabiseng Mabuza playing with a doll. Footage of Nthabiseng Mabuza saying that she will talk to other students about the situation in South Africa; that she will continue to support the struggle. Audio of Vaillancourt asking Anna Mabuza if the family will ever return to South Africa. Anna Mabuza says that she is still afraid of reprisals from the South African government. Footage of Nthabiseng Mabuza saying that it might be a long time before exiles are allowed to return to South Africa. Nthabiseng Mabuza says that she hopes to return home one day.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 02/14/1990

Outcome of Michigan caucuses

Description: Meg Vaillancourt reports that Jesse Jackson defeated Michael Dukakis in the Michigan caucuses. Jackson's performance exceeded the expectations of political analysts and has led them to consider the possibility of Jackson winning the Democratic nomination. Some analysts are questioning the state of the Dukakis campaign. Interviews with Robert Kuttner (author of The Life of the Party) and Leslie Dach (Dukakis campaign). Kuttner says that Jackson appeals to working class voters. Dach defends the Dukakis campaign and adds that Dukakis has a strong base of support. Vaillancourt notes that the Democratic establishment would be shaken by a Jackson victory. Interview with Jeffrey Garin (Democratic Party pollster). Vaillancourt's report includes footage of Charlene Drew Jarvis (delegate to the Democratic convention) on the MacNeil Lehrer Newshour and footage of Jackson and Dukakis campaigning.
1:00:07: Visual: Footage of Jesse Jackson (Democratic US Presidential candidate) campaigning in Connecticut. Supporters chant, "Win, Jesse, Win." Shot of Jackson holding a young white girl. Jackson gives the thumbs-up sign to supporters. Shots of Jackson supporters; of Jackson addressing supporters at a campaign rally. Meg Vaillancourt reports that Jackson did well in the Michigan primary election; that Jackson won the African American vote; that Jackson won 20% of the white vote. V: Footage of Robert Kuttner (author of The Life of the Party) saying that none of the white candidates have "touched a nerve." Kuttner says that Jackson appeals to voters because he represents the average working man and woman. Vaillancourt reports that Michael Dukakis (Democratic US Presidential candidate) did not do as well as Jackson in Michigan. Vaillancourt notes that Dukakis does not appeal to working class people. V: Shots of Dukakis at a campaign rally. Footage of Kuttner saying that Jackson's message is appeals to working class voters more than the messages of other Democratic candidates. Footage of Leslie Dach (Dukakis campaign) being interviewed by Vaillancourt. Dach says that Dukakis has a strong base of support. Shots of Dukakis; of Jackson with supporters and press. Vaillancourt reports that one news network predicts that Jackson and Dukakis are in a tie for delegates; that the Democratic Party must face the possibility of a Jackson victory. V: Footage of Jeffrey Garin (Democratic Party Pollster) saying that the Democratic Party will have a hard time facing a Dukakis defeat. Footage of Kuttner being interviewed by Vaillancourt. Kuttner says that the Democratic establishment is afraid of a Jackson victory. Shots of Jackson with supporters at a campaign rally. Footage of Kuttner saying that the economic self-interest of many voters is stronger than racism. Vaillancourt reports that Jackson must convince voters that he can run a government; that Dukakis must convince voters that he has enough passion. V: Footage of Dach saying that the voters will choose the candidate who can deliver on his promises. Shot of Jackson at a campaign rally. Vaillancourt reports that there are questions about the loyalty of some Dukakis supporters. V: Shot of Dukakis campaigning. Footage from The MacNeil Lehrer Newshour of Charlene Drew Jarvis (delegate to the Democratic convention) saying that she will not reveal how she will vote at the convention. Vaillancourt reports that Dukakis's loss in Michigan raises questions about his campaign; that Jackson's success leads analysts to wonder if he could win in a general election.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 03/28/1988

Parcel 18 development

Description: Meg Vaillancourt reports that the city of Boston is experimenting with a parcel-to-parcel linkage program to promote development in both the downtown area and in the outlying neighborhoods of the city. A new development project has linked a development in Chinatown to the development of Parcel 18 near the Ruggles MBTA station in Roxbury; the developers had to agree to develop both parcels of land. Vaillancourt reviews the details of the proposed development in each neighborhood. Interview with Stephen Coyle of the Boston Redevelopment Authority about the linkage project. Coyle says that the city is linking desirable downtown sites to sites in other neighborhoods in an attempt to bring jobs and services to the neighborhoods. Mayor Ray Flynn, Governor Michael Dukakis, and City Councilor Bruce Bolling at a press conference in Roxbury talk about the benefits of the linkage project. The Columbia Plaza Associates are a group of minority developers who will most likely develop the sites in Chinatown and Roxbury. Vaillancourt reviews the city's criteria for the development project. The project may bring more jobs and better housing to the Roxbury neighborhood. Following the edited story is b-roll of the area near the Ruggles MBTA station. This edition of the Ten O'Clock News also included the following item: Jesse Jackson campaigns for president in New Hampshire
1:00:06: Visual: Footage of Stephen Coyle (Boston Redevelopment Authority) saying that public land is being used to create "community equity." Shots of a street in Chinatown.<br /><br />Meg Vaillancourt reports that a new development project will affect two communities; that a parking garage and another lot on Essex Street will be developed into office space, retail space, a hotel, and moderate-income housing. Vaillancourt adds that land near the Ruggles MBTA station in Roxbury will be developed into a commercial center with two office buildings, a cultural center, and mixed-income housing for over 150 families. <br /><br />: V: Shots of a parking garage in Chinatown; of the area near the Ruggles Street MBTA station in Roxbury.<br /><br />Vaillancourt notes that developers who wanted the land in Chinatown had to agree to develop the land in Roxbury. <br /><br />: V: Shot of shoppers on a street in Chinatown; of African American commuters entering the Ruggles MBTA station. Shot of a sign reading, "Parcel-to-parcel linkage program project #1. Kingston-Bedford/Parcel 18."<br /><br />Vaillancourt reports that the parcel-to-parcel linkage program is the first program of its kind in the nation. <br /><br />V: Footage of Coyle saying that the downtown sites are desirable to developers; that the city is linking downtown sites with sites in other neighborhoods; that the city would like to bring the service economy into other neighborhoods. Coyle says that Roxbury can benefit from a service economy, especially with the new MBTA orange line trains. Footage of Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston) addressing a crowd seated outside of the Ruggles MBTA station. Flynn talks about the necessity of good jobs, affordable housing, and neighborhood revitalization. The crowd applauds. The crowd is mostly African American. Shots of an older African American woman in the crowd.<br /><br />Vaillancourt reports that the $400 million project will provide benefits to both communities; that the projects will create more than 2,000 jobs in construction; that the projects will provide more than 8,000 permanent jobs when complete. <br /><br />V: Shots of construction workers working on building sites. Footage of Michael Dukakis (Governor of Massachusetts) saying that these projects will prove to students that there are opportunities for them if they stay in school to be trained. Shot of the audience members. Footage of Bruce Bolling (President, Boston City Council) says that the projects are about the "economic mainstreaming" of those who had been factored out of the process. Shots of an African American woman and her child in the audience; of an African American man at the podium.<br /><br />Vaillancourt reports that Roxbury and Chinatown residents met with the Columbia Plaza Associates; that Columbia Plaza Associates are the minority developers of the projects. Vaillancourt notes that the Columbia group must satisfy five criteria before being officially designated as the developer of the projects. Vaillancourt reports that the group must expand minority and community participation in the project beyond 30%; that the group must develop a plan with clear community benefits; that the plan must get maximum benefit from the $6.6 million in linkage funds; that the project plans must be sensitive in scale and design; that the group must find private investors who promote community ownership and who will insure the projects. <br /><br />V: Shot of the Boston skyline from area near the Ruggles MBTA station. Text on screen lists the city's criteria for development. Footage of Coyle being interviewed by Vaillancourt. Coyle says that the plan requires that the land be put to use for the community. Shot of an African American woman holding her child.<br /><br />Vaillancourt stands in front of the Ruggles MBTA station. Vaillancourt reports that Roxbury community activists blocked a 1970 plan to extend an interstate highway; that the plan would have destroyed several area neighborhoods; that the activists argued for more jobs, more housing and better transportation. Vaillancourt notes that the project looks like it will fulfill the wishes of those community activists.:
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 10/12/1987

Portrait of a working poor family

Description: Meg Vaillancourt interviews Geneva Evans (working mother) and Jason Evans (son of Geneva Evans) in their home. Evans describes her experiences as a working mother. She says that she cannot support herself and her son on her salary. Evans explains that she is not allowed to work if she goes on welfare; that welfare benefits alone are not enough to live on, especially with the cost of health care. Evans says that she has not felt the effects of the economic recovery. She accuses Ronald Reagan of taking food from her son's mouth. Evans promises to vote against Reagan. She criticizes the government's policy of cutting welfare benefits for people who work part time. Geneva Evans and Jason Evans have a snack at their kitchen table. Jason tells Geneva about his day at school. Jason says that he hopes Walter Mondale will win the presidential election. Jason Evans and a girl walking outside of the Evans' apartment building.
1:00:04: Visual: Meg Vaillancourt sets up an interview with Geneva Evans (working mother) in her home. Vaillancourt asks Evans about her experiences while on welfare. Evans says that her welfare benefits were cut in 1982; that she had been working part time while on welfare; that she had been earning $113 per week. Evans says that she made do with her small salary; that she no longer needed a babysitter because her son entered school. Evans says that she received no aid to pay her rent; that her son was no longer eligible for the meal program at school. Evans says that she lost her welfare benefits, her food stamps and her medicare; that she had to switch medical clinics for her son's allergy treatments. Evans says that her son could no longer attend the South End medical clinic where he was receiving treatment; that her son was cut off from the food program at his daycare facility. Evans says that she got a part-time job, which was allowed under the welfare program; that her welfare and medicare benefits were cut off. Vaillancourt asks Evans if she is better off than she was four year's ago. Evans says that she is worse off than she was before Ronald Reagan (US President) was elected. Evans says that she is paid $188 per week before taxes; that she makes $152 per week after taxes; that she pays $210 per month in rent. 1:05:06: V: Vaillancourt asks Evans how she survives. Evans says that purchases her son's school clothes on layaway at Zayre's (local discount store). Vaillancourt asks Evans her opinion on Reagan's welfare policy. Evans says that she is capable of working; that she would like to work part-time and still receive welfare benefits; that she cannot support herself and her son on her salary. Evans says that she is not eligible for food stamps. Evans talks about the expense of buying clothes for her son. Vaillancourt asks Evans if she has considered going back on welfare. Evans says that she would make less on welfare than she makes now. Vaillancourt asks Evans to comment on Reagan's claim that the economic recovery has brought inflation and unemployment down. Evans says that she has not felt the effects of the economic recovery; that she has not seen an increase in her paycheck; that food prices have not declined. Vaillancourt asks Evans how she will vote in the elections. Evans says that she will vote for Mondale; that she wants to vote Reagan out of office. Evans says that she and her son have suffered from being cut off from food stamps and medicare; that Reagan has "taken food out of my son's mouth." Vaillancourt closes the interview. 1:09:14: V: The camera crew takes cutaway shots of Vaillancourt and Evans. Evans talks about how she survives on a small weekly paycheck. Evans talks about how she is hoping for a small raise in her salary as a "homemaker." Evans talks about the government's policy of cutting welfare benefits for people who work part time. 1:10:37: V: The camera crew sets up a shot of Evans and her son in the kitchen. Jason Evans sits at the kitchen table while Geneva Evans prepares a hot drink. Shots of Jason Evans sitting at the table. Jason Evans talks about his day at school. Geneva Evans gives her son some crackers. Geneva Evans sits down at the table across from her son. Geneva and Jason sit and talk. Shot of Geneva Evans drinking coffee; of Jason Evans eating crackers. The crew asks Geneva Evans to talk about the interview. Geneva Evans asks Jason if they are better off now than they were four years ago. Jason says that he thinks that they are better off now; that he hopes Mondale wins the election. Geneva Evans says that Jason does not fully understand the question. Jason says that Reagan got off to a good start in the campaign; that he does not know who will win. 1:16:10: V: The camera crew sets up a shot of Geneva Evans and Jason at the entrance to their apartment building. Jason and a girl exit the building. Geneva Evans tells Jason to be home in time for supper. Jason and the girl walk away from the building in the rain.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 11/30/1983

Prince and Princess of Swaziland

Description: Meg Vaillancourt reports that Princess Zenani Dlamini, daughter of Nelson and Winnie Mandela, and her husband Prince Thumbumuzi Dlamini, son of the late King of Swaziland, will attend Boston University. The couple has expressed a desire to abstain from politics while attending the university. Press conference where Zenani Dlamini answers questions about her parents. Vaillancourt's report is accompanied by footage of events in South Africa and by footage of Nelson Mandela. BU President John Silber stirred up controversy when he awarded an honorary degree to Mangosuthu Gatsha Buthelezi, the South African Zulu Chief, instead of Nelson Mandela. This edition of the Ten O'Clock News also included the following item: Dr. Laval Wilson (Superintendent, Boston Public Schools) must improve the reading skills of its students
0:59:58: Visual: Footage of Princess Zenani Dlamini saying that she has come to Boston to be a student. Footage of Princess Zenani and Prince Thumbumuzi Dlamini exiting a building and walking on the campus of Boston University. Meg Vaillancourt reports that Princess Zenani is the daughter of Nelson Mandela (black South African leader ); that Prince Thumbumuzi is the son of the late king of Swaziland; that the couple will be attending Boston University on full scholarship. V: Shot of Princess Zenani at a statue commemorating Martin Luther King (American civil rights leader) on the campus of Boston University. Footage of Zenani at a press conference, saying that she has come here to fulfill her dream and her parents' dream. Zenani quotes Martin Luther King, saying that people should not be judged by the color of their skin. Shots of the press at Princess Zenani's press conference; of Prince Thumbumuzi and Princess Zenani speaking. Vaillancourt reports that neither Prince Thumbumuzi nor Princess Zenani discussed US policy in South Africa; that Princess Zenani answered questions about her mother and father. V: Shot of Winnie Mandela (wife of Nelson Mandela). Black and white footage of Nelson Mandela speaking. Footage of Princess Zenani saying that she first met her father when she visited him in prison at age 16. Princess Zenani describes the experience of visiting her father in prison. Princess Zenani says that she first hugged her father in December, 1977. Shots of Prince Thumbumuzi and Princess Zenani at the press conference. Footage of Princess Zenani saying that she will focus on her education. Prince Thumbumuzi says that they will react to important events in their homeland, but will try to focus on their schoolwork. Vaillancourt says that Prince Thumbumuzi and Princess Zenani will try to abstain from political discussions; that Boston University is associated with the politics of John Silber (President, Boston University). V: Footage of Silber conferring an honorary degree on Mangosuthu Gatsha Buthelezi (South African Zulu Chief) in November, 1986. Student protesters carrying signs walk out of the auditorium. Vaillancourt reports that protesters believe that Silber honored Buthelezi because he is a more conservative leader than Nelson Mandela. V: Footage of Princess Zenani at the press conference, saying that her father has no objections to her attending Boston University. Vaillancourt reports that there is controversy surrounding a "mansion" being built by Winnie Mandela in Soweto. V: Shot of a newspaper headline reading that the Mandela house is "fit for a queen." Footage of Winnie Mandela with black South African children. Footage of Prince Thumbumuzi at the press conference, saying that the controversy surrounding the house has been blown out of proportion; that Winnie Mandela has adopted many children who will live in the house with Winnie and her relatives. Princess Zenani talks about Winnie Mandela's strength and courage. Shots of soldiers in armored vehicles and gunfire in the streets of South Africa. Shots of Prince Thumbumuzi and Princess Zenani walking on the campus of Boston University. Shots of young black children in South Africa; of a shantytown in South Africa; of children on the street in South Africa. Vaillancourt reports that it will not be easy for Prince Thumbumuzi and Princess Zenani to separate themselves from the struggle against apartheid in South Africa.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 05/13/1987

Profile in Courage award

Description: Meg Vaillancourt reports on the Profile in Courage Award, which was presented to Carl Elliot by Edward Kennedy, Caroline Kennedy, and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis at the John F. Kennedy Library. Elliot was a congressman from Alabama who voted to support civil rights in the 1960s. He was voted out of office and shunned by society as a result of his political beliefs. Vaillancourt reviews Elliot's record as a Congressman. Edward Kennedy and Elliot speak at the ceremony. Caroline Kennedy unveils a statue of John F. Kennedy on the grounds of the J.F.K. Library. Vaillancourt's report also includes footage of the civil rights movement from the Eyes on the Prize series. Vaillancourt reports that the Profile in Courage Award is named for the book, Profiles in Courage, written by John F. Kennedy. She notes that the award is given to elected officials who are not afraid to take risks in order to advance society.
1:00:11: Visual: Black and white footage of John F. Kennedy (former US President) addressing the nation in 1963. He encourages US citizens to support civil rights. Black and white footage from Eyes on the Prize of the civil rights movement. Shot of a white uniformed official grabbing American flags from the hands of African American civil rights protesters. Meg Vaillancourt reports that Carl Elliott (Profile in Courage Award winner) was a congressman from Alabama who voted with Kennedy to support civil rights. V: Shot of Elliott at the Profile in Courage awards ceremony. Vaillancourt reports that racial politics were a divisive issue in Alabama at the time. Vaillancourt notes that Alabaman elected officials included George Wallace and Bull Connors, who were active opponenets of civil rights. Vaillancourt notes that four young girls lost their lives in a racially motivated church bombing in Birmingham in 1963. V: Black and white footage of the civil rights movement from Eyes on the Prize. Shots of a march by opponents to civil rights; of George Wallace (former Governor of Alabama) addressing a crowd; of a tank rolling through the streets. Shots of police officers using fire hoses against civil rights demonstrators. Shots of a funeral procession. Vaillancourt notes that Elliott voted his conscience in 1963; that Elliott was voted out of office in 1964. V: Shot of Elliott at the awards ceremony. Footage of Edward Kennedy (US Senator) speaking at the ceremony. Edward Kennedy says that Elliott would merit his own chapter in an updated version of John F. Kennedy's book, Profiles in Courage. Edward Kennedy says that Elliott was a courageous man. Vaillancourt says that Elliott was honored today at the John F. Kennedy Library for sixteen years in public service. V: Shot of Elliott. Shot of an man addressing the audience at the ceremony. Elliott, Edward Kennedy, Caroline Kennedy (daughter of John F. Kennedy), and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis (widow of John F. Kennedy) are among those seated on stage. Shots of the audience at the ceremony. Footage of Elliott addressing the audience at the ceremony. Elliott says that intelligence and competence are not affected by skin color. Vaillancourt stands in front the J.F.K. Library. Vaillancourt reports that the Kennedy family honored Elliott with the first Profile in Courage Award. V: Footage of Edward Kennedy addressing the audience at the ceremony. Edward Kennedy says that he hopes the award will encourage US citizens to value political courage in its elected officials. Edward Kennedy says that he hopes more elected officials will do what is right. Edward Kennedy shakes Elliott's hand. Shots of the media at the ceremony. Vaillancourt reports that Elliott supported legislation to help his poorest constituents; that Elliott helped to write the National Defense Education Act. Vaillancourt notes that Elliott sponsored Medicare and other federal programs. Vaillancourt reports that Elliott's constituents began to see Elliott as too liberal; that Elliott was voted out of office and shunned by local society. Vaillancourt reports that Elliott's law practice lost business; that Elliott now lives on his social security checks. V: Footage of Edward Kennedy, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, and Caroline Kennedy rising to present the award to Elliot. Caroline Kennedy presents the award to Elliott. The media takes photographs. Shot of the award. Footage of Elliott addressing the audience at the ceremony. Elliott jokes that he never had access to poll numbers when he was an elected official. Vaillancourt reports that Elliott will receive a $25,000 stipend. Vaillancourt notes that the award is named for the book written by John F. Kennedy; that the award is meant to encourage elected officials to take risks. Vaillancourt adds that the award honors John F. Kennedy's call to public service. V: Footage of Caroline Kennedy unveiling a stutue of John F. Kennedy on the grounds of the J.F.K. Library. The audience applauds. Shots of the statue. Footage of Elliott addressing the audience at the ceremony. Elliott says that he was not "ahead of his time." Elliott says that he was "behind the times that ought to be." The audience applauds. Edward Kennedy, Caroline Kennedy, and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis rise to their feet.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 05/29/1990

Quotas and civil rights

Description: Meg Vaillancourt opens report with person on the street interviews on quotas, affirmative action, and civil rights. Vaillancourt interviews Avi Nelson (radio talk show host) and Dianne Wilkerson (attorney) about the debate concerning minority hiring quotas as a part of civil rights policy. Vaillancourt notes that George Bush vetoed a Civil Rights Bill last year because he said the bill would encourage the use of quotas by employers. Nelson opposes affirmative action programs and quotas. Nelson says that the Civil Rights Bill compromises the rights of some in order to benefit others. Wilkerson says that quotas were never a part of the Civil Rights Bill as it was written. Wilkerson says that the Civil Rights Bill would allow women and people of color to file lawsuits in cases of discrimination. Wilkerson accuses the Republican Party of bringing up quotas in order to undermine the passage of the Civil Rights Bill. Vaillancourt reports that the future of the bill remains uncertain. Vaillancourt's report includes footage of George Bush speaking in October of 1990 and footage of construction workers at a construction site. Vaillancourt's report also features footage from interviews with people on the street about minority hiring quotas. This tape includes additional footage from From Montgomery to Memphis. This edition of the Ten O'Clock News also included the following items: Controversy surrounds David Duke's visit to Boston and Carmen Fields reports on the history and present activities of the Ku Klux Klan
1:00:06: Visual: Footage of a white man being interviewed on the street. The man says that African Americans claim to have been discriminated against for many years. The man says that now it is "every man for himself." Footage of a white woman being interviewed at Downtown Crossing. The woman says that businesses should not be required to hire a certain number of minorities; that equal rights are important. Footage of an African American woman being interviewed on the street. The woman says that there is a assumption that people of color and women cannot compete with white men; that this assumption gives quotas a bad name. Shots of people walking through Downtown Crossing. Meg Vaillancourt reports that the majority of people interviewed today at Downtown Crossing opposed job quotas. Vaillancourt asks if job quotas are the issue when it comes to civil rights. V: Footage of Avi Nelson (radio talk show host) being interviewed. Nelson says that quotas are not part of civil rights. Nelson says that people who get jobs because of quotas keep out other people who are more qualified to do the job. Footage of Dianne Wilkerson (attorney) being interviewed by Vaillancourt. Wilkerson says that she does not understand all of the controversy surrounding job quotas. Wilkerson that no one has publicly admitted being forced to hire people of color or women. Vaillancourt reports that Wilkerson believes that Republicans use the term quotas because they know that the word has a negative connotation. Vaillancourt reports that Wilkerson prefers the term "remedy." V: Footage of Wilkerson being interviewed by Vaillancourt. Wilkerson says that there is no "quota bill." Wilkerson says that there is a bill to restore the civil rights of women and people of color. Wilkerson says that Supreme Court decisions of the late 1980s had a devastating impact on the ability of women and people of colors to file lawsuits in cases of discrimination. Vaillancourt reports that Nelson is a republican; that Nelson opposes the ideas of affirmative action. V: Footage of Nelson being interviewed. Nelson says that the grievances of history can never be fully redressed; that it is impossible to achieve a state of equality for all people. Nelson says that the government should commit itself to granting equal opportunity for all in the structure of the laws from this day forward. Nelson says that the government cannot remedy the disadvantaged backgrounds of certain individuals. Footage of George Bush (US President) speaking on October 22, 1990. Bush says that he has long been committed to affirmative action. Vaillancourt reports that Bush vetoed a Civil Rights Bill last year. Vaillancourt notes that Bush said that the bill would encourage the use of quotas by employers. Vaillancourt reports that the word "quota" never appeared in the Civil Rights Bill vetoed by Bush. Vaillancourt notes that the bill shifted the burden of proof onto employers; that employers would need to show that they did not discriminate. Vaillancourt adds that an Congressional effort to override Bush's veto failed by a handful of votes. V: Footage of workers at a construction site. Shot of a worker moving dirt in a wheelbarrow. The worker dumps the dirt outside of a building. Shots of workers digging holes at a construction site. The workers are of diverse races. Footage of Wilkerson being interviewed by Vaillancourt. Wilkerson says that supporters of the Civil Rights Bill were not advocating quotas; that quotas were never mentioned in the legislation. Vaillancourt remarks that some people call job quotas the "Willie Horton" of civil rights. Wilkerson agrees with Vaillancourt's remark. Wilkerson says that Bush and David Duke (Louisiana state representative) are in agreement. Wilkerson says that the Republican Party is trying to distance itself from Duke; that the Republican Party and Duke are in agreement on this issue. Footage of Nelson being interviewed by Vaillancourt. Nelson says that the Republican Party has a problem with Duke; that the Democratic Party has a problem with Louis Farrakhan (leader, Nation of Islam). Nelson says that he occasionally agrees with Duke; that he does not embrace Duke as fellow traveler. Nelson says that opponents of the bill do not want to deny civil rights of US citizens. Nelson says that the bill would compromise the civil rights of some in order to give benefits to others. Vaillancourt reports that Democrats in the US House of Representatives have tried to rename the bill this year in order to change the tone of debate; that House Democrats are emphasizing its benefits for white women. Vaillancourt reports that Democrats fear that they will again be accused of promoting quotas. Vaillancourt reports that Senate Democrats have not yet proposed a new bill; that Senate Democrats fear a repeat of last year's debate and Republican victory.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 03/28/1991

Redlining

Description: Meg Vaillancourt reports that the Federal Reserve Bank has released a study finding that banks in Boston are guilty of redlining. Vaillancourt notes that three times as many mortgages are approved in Boston's white neighborhoods as in African American neighborhoods. Vaillancourt reviews the findings of the study. Vaillancourt interviews African Americans on the street. They talk about their experiences in applying for mortgages. Vaillancourt reports that African Americans earn less than whites on average. She adds that these economic factors do not explain the gap in mortgage lending practices. Vaillancourt interviews Joseph Kennedy (US Congressman). Kennedy condemns redlining practices. He adds that banks should not practice discrimination, noting that many banks receive federal funds. Vaillancourt reports that Boston banks have agreed to change their lending practices. She adds that meetings between community activists and banks are scheduled for next month. Vaillancourt's report is accompanied by footage of employees and customers in banks and shots of residential homes.
1:00:14: Visual: Shots of residential homes in suburban areas. Meg Vaillancourt reports that home prices are on the rise. Vaillancourt notes that race can also be obstacle to home ownership. V: Footage of an African American man being interviewed at Downtown Crossing in Boston. The man says that he is turned down every time he applies for a mortgage. Footage of an African American woman being interviewed at Downtown Crossing. The woman says that she has had to submit a great deal of paperwork when applying for a mortgage; that she has been examined more carefully than her income would merit. Footage of Joseph Kennedy (US Congressman) saying that redlining is practiced across the nation; that many officials try to deny it. Vaillancourt reports that the Federal Reserve Bank has released a study which finds that three times as many mortgages are approved in Boston's white neighborhoods as in Boston's African American neighborhoods. V: Shot of an African American woman looking out of the window of an apartment building. On-screen visuals and text detail the findings of the study. Footage of an African American man being interviewed at Downtown Crossing. The man says that banks seem to believe that African Americans do not have money. Footage of another man being interviewed. The man says that there should be no discrimination in lending practices. Shots of homes in a residential neighborhood; of two white women and a child standing in front of one of the homes. Vaillancourt reports that some blamed economic factors instead of race for redlining practices. Vaillancourt quotes statistics which show that African Americans earn less than whites on average; that homes in African American neighborhoods cost less; that there is less development in African American neighborhoods. V: Shots of residential homes in a variety of neighborhoods. Vaillancourt notes that economic factors do not explain the gap in mortgage lending practices. Vaillancourt quotes the study as finding that a 24% difference in mortgages between white and African American neighborhoods is found even when economic factors are taken into account. Vaillancourt reports that the study found that economic factors do not explain the gap in lending practices. V: On-screen text and visuals detail the study findings. Footage of Kennedy saying that poor people are receiving credit; that people of color are being denied access to credit. Vaillancourt reports that the banking industry is in crisis after the savings and loan scandal; that many banks have been forced to close. Vaillancourt notes that taxpayers are bailing out some banks; that banks are having a hard time collecting on bad loans. V: Shots of employees and customers in the lobby of a bank; of a client filling out a loan application; of bank employees sitting at their desks while helping customers. Shot of an African American bank employee helping a white customer with a loan application. Footage of Kennedy saying that banks have access to federal funds; that banks receiving federal funds should not practice discrimination. Shot of two triple-decker houses in a residential neighborhood. One of the houses is dilapidated. Vaillancourt reports that Boston banks have agreed to change their lending practices; that meetings between community activists and banks are scheduled for next month. V: Footage of the first African American man at Downtown Crossing. The man says that he has been forced to look elsewhere for loans; that the banks' lending practices will not stop him.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 08/31/1989

Robert Mugabe

Description: Meg Vaillancourt reports that Robert Mugabe (Prime Minister of Zimbabwe) was awarded an honorary degree from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. Vaillancourt's report includes footage of Mugabe receiving his doctoral hood from Maki Mandela (daughter of Nelson Mandela) and footage from Mugabe's speech and press conference. Vaillancourt reports that Mugabe spoke out against apartheid in South Africa and advocated sanctions against the South African government. Vaillancourt reviews Mugabe's career. Comments on President Reagan's political actions concerning Apartheid. Vaillancourt's report includes footage of Mugabe in Zimbabwe.
1:00:06: Visual: Footage of Robert Mugabe (Prime Minister of Zimbabwe) speaking at the commencement ceremonies at University of Massachusetts in Amherst. Mugabe applauds the US Congress for considering sanctions against South Africa. Meg Vaillancourt says that Mugabe talked about sanctions against South Africa in his speech at UMass Amherst; that Mugabe was honored by the university for "his efforts to establish racial harmony between blacks and whites." Vaillancourt notes that Mugabe was presented with an honorary doctorate of laws. V: Shot of Mugabe receiving his doctoral hood from Maki Mandela (daughter of Nelson Mandela). Vaillancourt reports that Mugabe became Zimbabwe's first prime minister in 1980; that Zimbabwe had been known as Rhodesia under colonial rule. V: Shots of Mugabe and his cabinet in 1980; of white colonial rulers before 1980; of a newspaper headline reading, "Black Hitler." Vaillancourt reports that Mugabe was a fierce opponent of apartheid in neighboring South Africa; that Mugabe had spent ten years in prison before emerging as the leader of the Zimbabwean struggle for independence. V: Shots of Mugabe in the Zimbabwean Parliament; of Mugabe being led away by two police officers; of Mugabe entering a military garrison. Vaillancourt notes that Mugabe is a strong supporter of black South African leaders. V: Footage of Mugabe at a press conference. Mugabe says that he advocates using all legitimate means to overthrow apartheid; that he advocates armed struggle against South Africa. Mugabe says that he can understand the desire to fight apartheid using non-violent means. Mugabe encourages the use of "maximum non-violence" through sanctions and political pressure. Shot of the press at the press conference. Vaillancourt says that Mugabe dismissed concerns that sanctions would hurt South African blacks. V: Footage of Mugabe saying that black South Africans are already suffering and dying under apartheid; that black South Africans are prepared to suffer under sanctions because they will yield a positive result. Vaillancourt says that Mugabe was questioned about his leadership of Zimbabwe; that there have been accusations of human rights violations in Zimbabwe under Mugabe. V: Shots of Mugabe in a government building; of Zimbabwean troops uncovering an arms cache. Vaillancourt reports that Mugabe says that he has detained those who have tried to overthrow his government. V: Footage of Mugabe at the commencement ceremony. Mugabe says that the struggle for human rights is a universal struggle. Vaillancourt stands on the campus of UMass Amherst. Vaillancourt says that Ronald Reagan (US President) is trying to win enough votes in the US Congress to sustain his veto of sanctions against South Africa. Vaillancourt notes that Reagan is promising an African American ambassador to South Africa as part of his weaker sanctions package; that Reagan is expressing concern over a disruption of summit talks if sanctions are approved by Congress. Vaillancourt adds that Mugabe said that the time for compromise in South Africa is over.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 10/01/1986

Robert Peterkin

Description: Meg Vaillancourt interviews Robert Peterkin (Superintendent, Cambridge Public Schools) about school desegregation in Boston. Peterkin reviews desegregation in Boston, both the positive and negative outcomes. He talks about the challenges that lie ahead for desegregation. Peterkin discusses his belief in the potential for educational innovation and quality in a minority school system, stating that quality education will desegregate schools more effectively than a court order. He discusses the difficulties in moving from a "numerical desegregation" plan to a "freedom of choice" plan and notes that the Cambridge Public School System desegregated its schools through a "freedom of choice" plan. Peterkin says that busing was necessary to desegregate the Boston school system; notes that the city had been given opportunities to explore other desegregation models; that the resistance to busing was very strong. Peterkin discusses the magnet school concept and the need to institute valuable educational programs at every school. Peterkin talks about the problems with the court-ordered desegregation plan in Boston, but says that the positive result of equal access to the schools far outweighs the negative results. Peterkin discusses the prospect of more students returning to Boston schools in the future. Peterkin says that Arthur Garrity (federal judge) should end his supervision of Boston's schools; that the Boston School Department is able to assume the responsibility of continued desegregation of the schools, but that safeguards are required to prevent a return to discriminatory practices. Peterkin discusses his perceptions of what Martin Luther King would have thought about school desegregation in Boston.
1:00:02: Visual: Meg Vaillancourt interviews Robert Peterkin (Superintendent, Cambridge Public Schools) about school desegregation in Boston. Vaillancourt asks Peterkin to review desegregation in Boston. Peterkin says that school desegregation has given minority students access to better school programs; that school desegregation opened up the Boston Public School System. Peterkin talks about partnerships between the school system and businesses and universities in the community. Peterkin mentions the cooperation between the school system and human services agencies. Peterkin says that school desegregation exposed the educational shortcomings of the system. Peterkin says that school desegregation is still a difficult issue in Boston; that white and middle-class students have abandoned the school system; that the population of the Boston schools is overwhelmingly minority. Peterkin says that the desegregation effort needs to focus on educational programs; that Robert Spillane (Superintendent, Boston Public Schools) is focusing more on educational reform; that parents support the renewed focus on educational programs. Vaillancourt asks Peterkin if improvements in education are possible with a minority student population and an overwhelmingly white city government. Peterkin says that he resents the implication that educational innovation and quality are not possible in a minority school system. Peterkin notes that the school system must spend their resources wisely; that the quality of education will determine whether or not students will attend; that quality education will desegregate schools more effectively than a court order. 1:05:00: V: Vaillancourt asks Peterkin's opinion on the "freedom of choice" proposal. Peterkin says that the "freedom of choice" plan will not work until the quality of education improves in all schools across the city; that there is varying quality among the schools in Boston; that each neighborhood school needs to offer strong educational programs. Peterkin says that it will be difficult to switch from a "numerical desegregation" plan to a "freedom of choice" plan; that the "freedom of choice" plan will require an enormous leap of faith for the minority community and the court. Peterkin mentions that the Cambridge Public School System desegregated its schools through a "freedom of choice" plan. Vaillancourt asks Peterkin if busing was necessary for desegregation in Boston. Peterkin says that busing was necessary at the time; that the city had been given opportunities to explore other desegregation models; that the resistance to busing was very strong. Peterkin says that Arthur Garrity (federal judge) made efforts to improve the schools through magnet programs and partnerships with businesses; that parents are more willing to bus their children to a school with strong educational programs. Vaillancourt asks Peterkin if all schools should be follow the magnet school model. Peterkin says that there must be an effort to institute valuable educational programs in every school; that parents will send there children to schools with sound educational programs; that it is not necessary to make every school a magnet school. Vaillancourt asks about the problems with the court-ordered desegregation plan in Boston. Peterkin says that the schools were ignored recently by city officials and the community in the late 1970s and early 1980s; that many residents and city officials did not pay attention to the schools because of a fiscal crisis and low attendance; that a declining school system can adversely affect the whole city. Peterkin says that a reduced student population was a negative result of school desegregation; that the positive result of equal access to the schools far outweighs the negative result. 1:11:24: V: Vaillancourt asks Peterkin if students will return to the schools. Peterkin says that there has been a renewed commitment to the schools in the past few years; that improvements in the educational programs will prompt younger parents to consider sending their children to the Boston Public Schools. Peterkin notes that the decline in attendance has leveled off. Vaillancourt asks Peterkin if Garrity should end his supervision of the schools. Peterkin says that Garrity should end his supervision; that the Boston School Department is able to assume the responsibility of continued desegregation of the schools. Peterkin says that there need to be some safeguards in the system to prevent a return to discriminatory practices. Peterkin says that flexible guidelines must be established to guarantee the percentages of children in neighborhood schools; that educational standards must be guaranteed. Vaillancourt asks Peterkin what Martin Luther King would have thought about school desegregation in Boston. Peterkin says that King would have been disheartened by the violence and turmoil resulting from school desegregation; that King would have been encouraged by the positive changes in the system and in the city. The crew takes cutaway shots of Vaillancourt and Peterkin. Peterkin and Vaillancourt speak informally about the state of schools in Boston.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 03/17/1983

Robert Spillane profile

Description: Profile of Robert Spillane, superintendent of Boston Public Schools as he prepares to leave Boston for a post in Virginia. Vaillancourt reports on Spillane's accomplishments in improving the Boston Public School System and cutting the school budget deficit. Interview with Spillane where he compliments the teaching staff in the Boston Public Schools and talks about his opinion of Arthur Garrity. He says that Garrity's stewardship of the school system was a disaster. Interview with Peter McCormick, the President of the Bank of New England, about Spillane's good relationship with the business community. Vaillancourt speculates about whether Spillane will one day pursue a career in politics.
1:00:21: Visual: Footage of Robert Spillane (Superintendent, Boston Public Schools) speaking to an audience. Spillane says that the quality of every school must be improved in order for school desegregation to be considered a success. Meg Vaillancourt reports that Spillane took over as Superintendent of the Boston Public Schools four years ago; that Boston was undergoing school desegregation. V: Shot of a young African American boy watching an anti-busing march. White protesters chant, "Here we go, Southie." Shot of a police officer pushing an angry white man against a car. Vaillancourt reports that the quality of education was very low. Vaillancourt notes that school officials admitted that more than one-third of the graduates from Boston Public Schools could not read. V: Shots of students descending an elevator at English High School. Shot of an African American male student reading at a his desk; of two white male students sitting together in a classroom; of students in a classroom. Shots of a group of students sitting together in a study hall; of a teacher in the study hall. Vaillancourt reports that there were six superintendents during the first seven years of school desegregation in Boston. Vaillancourt reports that Spillane was committed to changing the schools in Boston. V: Shot of Spillane seating himself as he prepares to speak to an audience. The audience applauds. Vaillancourt reports that Spillane instituted the first changes to the school curriculum in fifteen years; that promotion standards were established; that students' test scores began to improve. V: Shot of two elementary school students seated in front of computers. A teacher looks over the shoulder of one of the students. Vaillancourt reports that Spillane shares credit for success with his staff. V: Footage of Spillane being interviewed. Spillane says that there is an excellent teaching staff in the Boston Public Schools. Spillane says that the rising levels of student achievement reflect the dedication of the teaching staff. Spillane says that he provided help and direction. Spillane says that he challenged the teachers by publishing the test scores of each school. Shots of Spillane in his office. Vaillancourt reports that Spillane is known as the "velvet hammer." V: Shot of a hammer with a velvet grip on display in Spillane's office. Vaillancourt reports that Spillane is credited with pushing Arthur Garrity (federal judge) aside; that Spillane allowed the Boston School Department to take charge of the schools once again. Vaillancourt notes that Garrity is slowly handing over his control of the Boston Public Schools. V: Shot of Garrity at a community meeting in January of 1976. Vaillancourt reports that Spillane has few kind words for Garrity. V: Footage of Spillane being interviewed by Vaillancourt. Spillane says that Garrity was a "disaster"; that Garrity was not a good manager of the schools. Spillane says that Garrity did what was necessary to desegregate the schools; that Garrity tried to manage the schools as well. Spillane says that a federal judge has no qualifications to manage a school system. Vaillancourt reports that Spillane considers his ability to manage the school system as his strength. Vaillancourt reports that the school budget had tripled in the decade before Spillane's arrival. Vaillancourt reports that Spillane cut the school deficit from $30 million to $3 million within one year. Vaillancourt notes that Spillane got Boston businesses involved in the schools; that Boston businesses have given over $5 million in additional funds to the schools. Vaillancourt adds that the Boston Public Schools have the largest private endowment in the nation. V: Footage of a woman introducing Spillane to an audience. Spillane rises from his seat, shakes the woman's hand and prepares to address the audience. The audience applauds. Shots of audience members. Footage of Spillane receiving an award in front of an audience. Footage of Peter McCormick (President, Bank of New England) being interviewed. McCormick says that Spillane is highly respected by the business community. McCormick says that Spillane understands the problems of the business community; that Spillane has been willing to be flexible. McCormick says that the business community responded in kind to Spillane. Vaillancourt reports that Spillane is leaving Boston for Virginia; that Spillane will make an additional $30,000 per year in his new job. Vaillancourt reports that Spillane made $70,000 per year in Boston; that his salary is considered low. V: Footage of Spillane talking with a small group of people. Spillane shakes hands with an Asian American woman. Footage of Spillane being interviewed by Vaillancourt. Spillane says that superintendents are like athletes in that they have a short span of time in which to perform well and make money. Spillane says that there is a good market for superintendents. Vaillancourt reports that some are speculating that Spillane is looking for a political appointment in Washington DC. in the future. Vaillancourt notes that Spillane is a former Deputy Commissioner of Education in New York. V: Shot of Spillane socializing with a group of people at a gathering. Footage of Spillane being interviewed by Vaillancourt. Spillane says that public service is a great opportunity; that he loves public service. Spillane says that he may enter politics in the future; that he might like to be a city councillor or school committee member someday.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 06/28/1985

Roxbury demands end to drug crime

Description: Meg Vaillancourt reports on the street violence that resulted in the accidental shooting of Darlene Tiffany Moore (eleven-year-old Roxbury resident). Vaillancourt interviews Maleka Few (Roxbury resident, age twelve) and Jessica Moore (Roxbury resident, age 10). The girls are afraid of the violence that resulted in Tiffany Moore's death. Vaillancourt reports that Roxbury residents went to City Hall to ask for more police protection in the neighborhood. Vaillancourt's report includes footage of Roxbury community leaders at a press conference. Amanda Houston (Roxbury resident), Bruce Bolling (Boston City Council), and Louis Elisa (Roxbury resident) talk about the need for more police on the streets. Vaillancourt reports the Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston) has put more police on the streets and has pledged a full investigation of Moore's shooting. Vaillancourt's report includes footage of William Celester (Deputy Superintendent, Boston Police Department) and Flynn at a press conference. Vaillancourt reports that Roxbury is experiencing its worst violence in twenty years. She notes that city and state officials gathered at a press conference to discuss the problem. Vaillancourt's report includes footage of the press conference in Roxbury with Francis "Mickey" Roache (Police Commissioner, City of Boston), Royal Bolling, Sr. (former State Senator), and John Kerry (US Senator). Roache blames drug traffic for the violence. Kerry criticizes the ineffectual drug policy and social programs of the Reagan administration. Vaillancourt's report includes footage of police officers stopping African American men on the streets of Roxbury.
1:00:26: Visual: Footage of Maleka Few (Roxbury resident, age 12) saying that she thinks it might happen to her next. Shot of a Boston Herald newspaper article with a headline reading, "Police vow to capture girl's killers." A photo of Darlene Tiffany Moore (Roxbury resident, age 11) accompanies the article. Meg Vaillancourt reports that Moore was sitting outside on Humboldt Avenue in Roxbury when she was killed by a stray bullet; that Moore was the unintentional victim of a war between two rival gangs. V: Shot of a Humboldt Avenue in Roxbury. Footage of Few saying that the gang members were not shooting at Moore; that Moore was in the wrong place at the wrong time. Few says that she does not want to go out to the store with her mother anymore. Footage of Jessica Moore (Roxbury resident, age 10) saying that she used to sit in the same place on Humboldt Street. Shots of African American girls standing on a street in Roxbury. Vaillancourt reports that Roxbury parents went to City Hall today to ask for more police protection. V: Footage of Amanda Houston (Roxbury resident) saying that she is a "gutsy lady;" that she is starting to feel frightened. Footage of Bruce Bolling (Boston City Council) speaking to the press. Bolling says that there is open warfare going on in the city. Shot of media camera crews. Footage of Louis Elisa (Roxbury resident) saying that Roxbury residents pay their taxes; that Roxbury citizens are demanding equal protection under the law. Vaillancourt reports that forty extra police officers are patrolling Humboldt Avenue; that Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston) has pledged a full investigation of the shooting. V: Shot of two police officers patrolling a street. Footage of William Celester (Deputy Superintendent, Boston Police Department) speaking to the press. Flynn stands beside him. Celester says that the community has been providing information about the shooting to police; that the police are investigating suspects. Footage of two white police officers stopping an African American man to search him. Vaillancourt reports that Roxbury is experiencing its worst violence in twenty years. V: Footage of Francis "Mickey" Roache (Police Commissioner, City of Boston) speaking at press conference in Roxbury. John Kerry (US Senator) and Royal Bolling Sr. (State Senator) are among the crowd standing with Roache. Roache says that drugs equal violence. Shots of the press at the press conference. Vaillancourt notes that Kerry visited Roxbury today to talk to residents about the drug problem. V: Footage of Kerry saying that the government cannot ask kids in Roxbury to say no to drugs if the Reagan administration cannot say no to General Manuel Noriega (leader of Panama). Kerry says that the drug policy of the Reagan administration is hypocritical and ineffective; that the administration's policy is contributing to the drug problem. Vaillancourt reports that Roxbury residents are calling for drastic measures to fight violence; that some curfews, night-court sessions, and the National Guard have all been suggested. V: Footage of Kerry saying that the presence of the National Guard will not solve the drug problem; that overcrowded prisons, an inadequate school system, and a lack of treatment centers are all contributing to the drug problem. Shot of two white police officers talking to an African American teenage boy on a street in Roxbury. Vaillancourt reports that Roxbury residents want increased aid on all levels. Vaillancourt notes that residents are worried that the situation will not improve after Moore's killer is found. V: Shot of a cameraman filming a man in a business suit on the street; of Humboldt Avenue in Roxbury.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 08/22/1988

Seabrook evacuation zone

Description: Seabrook Nuclear Power Plant is working to license their plant through the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, while Rep. Ed Markey and other Massachusetts politicians, especially Governor Dukakis, argue against it. Seabrook requests evacuation zone be reduced from 10 miles to 1 mile, which will cut Massachusetts out of the discussion.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 12/18/1986

Silber explains to Area B

Description: Meg Vaillancourt reports that Democratic gubernatorial candidate John Silber held a press conference on a Roxbury street today, trying to explain his comments during the previous evening's gubernatorial debate, in which he referred to the residents of Roxbury, Dorchester, and Mattapan as "a group of drug addicts." Silber apologizes for hurting anyone's feelings. A group of African American community leaders stand behind him. Vaillancourt notes that Silber blamed the media for not attending his speech on crime control on the steps of the Massachusetts State House. Vaillancourt reports that the press conference changed tone when Silber got into a hostile argument with Roxbury resident Priscilla Flint Russell. Interviews with Roxbury residents about John Silber. City Councilor Bruce Bolling, State Rep. Gloria Fox, and other Roxbury community leaders held a press conference today at which they condemned Silber for his comments. Following the edited story is additional footage of the Roxbury community leader press conference. Segments of Bruce Bolling's statement. Additional footage of John Silber's press conference. Segments for City Councilor Charles Yanceys' statement at the Roxbury community leader press conference. This edition of the Ten O'Clock News also included the following item: Marcus Jones reports on negative media coverage of the Roxbury community
1:00:05: Visual: Footage of John Silber (Democratic candidate for governor of Massachusetts) speaking at a press conference on the corner of Humboldt Avenue and Homestead Street in Roxbury. Bill Owens (State Senator) and other African American community leaders stand behind Silber. Silber says that there are upstanding, responsible citizens who fear for their lives in the Roxbury community. Silber says that he did not indict them in recent comments. Meg Vaillancourt reports that Silber held a press conference on a Roxbury street today. V: Shots of the press conference. Silber is surrounded by members of the media. A camera crew stands on top of a van to film Silber. Vaillancourt reports that Silber tried to explain his comments during a debate on the previous evening. Vaillancourt notes that a reporter at the debate asked Silber why he has not held any campaign events in the Roxbury, Dorchester, or Mattapan areas of Boston, which is also known as Area B. V: Footage from a gubernatorial campaign debate on September 11, 1990. Silber says that it is useless to give a speech about crime control to "a group of drug addicts." Silber says that it is better for him to give a speech on the steps of the Massachusetts State House. Vaillancourt reports that Silber tried to clarify his remarks today. V: Footage of Silber at the Roxbury press conference. Silber says that he regrets the confusion; that he did not mean to hurt anyone's feelings. Vaillancourt notes that Silber's comments were not all apologetic. V: Shot of a member of a TV news crew at the press conference. Footage of Silber at the Roxbury press conference. Silber tells a reporter that he was not making an apology to the community. Vaillancourt reports that Silber held his press conference in the area where Darlene Tiffany Moore (Roxbury resident and murder victim) was killed two years ago. V: Shot of a 1988 Boston Herald newspaper article featuring a photo of Moore. Vaillancourt reports that Silber chose the spot for the press conference in order to remind people of his crime control proposals. Vaillancourt notes that Silber also tried to blame the media. V: Footage of Silber at the press conference. Silber says that this is not the place for a speech about law and order. Silber says that he will make the speech at this press conference. Silber says that he recently gave a speech on crime control on the steps of the State House; that no one attended. Vaillancourt reports that there are six days left before the gubernatorial primary election. Vaillancourt notes that Silber received a lot of media attention today. V: Shots of members of the media standing on top of a van at the press conference; of reporters surrounding Silber at the press conference. Vaillancourt reports that the press conference changed its tone when a Roxbury resident told Silber that he needs to acknowledge drugs as an equal opportunity problem. V: Footage of Silber and the media at the press conference. Priscilla Flint Russell (Roxbury resident) addresses Silber. She asks him how the drugs and guns are getting into Roxbury. Russell says that Roxbury teenagers are not bringing in the drugs and guns. Silber says that the high-level drug dealers must be prosecuted by the federal courts. Russell asks who will be prosecuted. Silber tells Russell to ask Francis Bellotti (Democratic candidate for governor of Massachusetts). Russell says that she wants an answer from Silber. Silber says that he is not a prosecuting attorney. Russell stands and yells at Silber. Russell points out that Silber is the one who came to the neighborhood to talk about drugs; that she is not a drug addict. Silber turns away from the microphone, saying that he has no time for "fanaticism." Russell tells Silber to get out of the neighborhood. Vaillancourt reports that neighborhood residents talked about Silber's comments after the press conference. V: Footage of a female neighborhood resident saying that Silber showed his ignorance by speaking of her community in that way. Footage of an African American man saying that he got out of the neighborhood and went to college. The man says that he is not offended by Silber's statements. Footage of an African American woman saying that Silber's comments were taken out of context; that people are afraid to walk the streets. Vaillancourt reports that Roxbury community leaders held a press conference today; that they refused to speak Silber's name. V: Shot of Bruce Bolling (Boston City Council) speaking at the press conference. Footage of Gloria Fox (State Representative) speaking at the press conference. Fox says that Silber is a "wicked racist individual" who deserves no name. Fox says that Silber perpetuates the racist atmosphere which prevailed during the Carol Stuart murder case. Don Muhammad (Roxbury community leader) is among the leaders at the press conference. Vaillancourt stands on a street in Roxbury. Vaillancourt reports that Silber took a lot of heat from the Roxbury community today. Vaillancourt notes that the Roxbury community has not received much attention from Bellotti or from the Republican gubernatorial candidates. Vaillancourt reports that the Roxbury community felt snubbed by the 1988 presidential campaign of Michael Dukakis (governor of Massachusetts) because the campaign made no major stops in Roxbury. V: Footage of an African American man saying that politicians need to be more visible in Roxbury when there is no election going on. Footage of another African American man saying that he expects little from the next governor of Massachusetts; that the present governor has done little for the Roxbury community. Shot of two white police officers carefully watching an African American boy as he walks down the street.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 09/12/1990

Simplex steering committee

Description: Meg Vaillancourt reports on a protest by Cambridge activists against plans proposed by MIT to develop a parcel of land near Central Square. Protesters accuse MIT and the developer of misleading the public by underestimating the size and scope of the project planned for the Simplex site. Bill Cavellini from the Simplex Steering Committee and Ken Campbell of MIT discuss the plans for the site. Vaillancourt reviews the plans for the site. The protesters differ with MIT over the amount of low-income housing to be built on the site and on the definition of low-income housing. Bill Noble from the Simplex Steering Committee criticizes MIT's definition of low-income housing. Cambridge activists and the homeless community are at odds with one another over the most effective form of protest against the development. At a protest, a scuffle breaks out between one of the activists and a homeless man. Community activist Mel King tries to make peace between the two sides. The Cambridge City Council will soon vote on the planned development. Following the edited story is additional b-roll footage of students on the campus of MIT in warm weather.
1:00:05: Visual: Footage of a group of protesters marching through a snowy lot near Central Square in Cambridge, chanting "We say no to MIT." Meg Vaillancourt reports that a small band of Cambridge activists are protesting the development of 27 acres of land owned by MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology); that MIT is working with Forest City Developers to build a multi-million dollar research and development complex; that the proposed site is known as the Simplex site. V: Shots of protesters standing near a sign for University Park at MIT; of the sign for University Park. Footage of a protest leader addressing the crowd of demonstrators. The protesters carry signs. Vaillancourt reports that the activists claim that developers deliberately misled the public; that the developers underestimated the size and scope of the project. V: Footage of Bill Cavellini (Simplex Steering Committee) saying that the developers told the public that they would build a $250 million development; that the developers will build a $500 million development. Cavellini tells Vaillancourt that the activists received documentation about the development from a confidential source. Cavellini says that Forest City Developers have been deceptive and have breached the public's trust. Footage of Ken Campbell (MIT) saying that the activists got hold of documents from October of 1987; that the Cambridge City Council approved the plan for the site in December of 1987; that the plan approved by the Council includes 400,000 square feet of housing. Shot of documents and information distributed by the opponents of the plan. Vaillancourt reports that the University Park Development Plan includes housing, a hotel and a 12-screen cinema; that a four- to six-screen theater had been discussed by the developer in public. V: Shot of a vacant lot in Cambridge, covered with snow; of a group of people standing outside of a house in Cambridge. Vaillancourt reports that opponents say that numerous zoning changes will be required to build the project, including the widening of streets and the removal of the city fire station in Central Square. V: Shot of a group of protesters; of a sign reading, "Cambridgeport has decided to stop MIT expansion." Vaillancourt says that MIT and the Simplex Steering Committee differ on how much low-income housing will be built on the site. V: Footage of Campbell saying that MIT has doubled the amount of affordable housing in the original proposal; that MIT is proposing 100 low-income units and 50 moderate-income units. Footage of Bill Noble (Simplex Steering Committee) saying that MIT's definition of low- and moderate-income is not accurate; that MIT is really proposing moderate- and middle-income units. Vaillancourt reports that there are many homeless people in the area; that activists and the homeless do not always agree on how to oppose the development. Vaillancourt says that the homeless do not think that the protesters are representing the interests of the homeless. V: Footage of a female protest leader addressing the demonstrators and the press. A scuffle breaks out between Cavellini and Carlos (homeless man). Footage of Carlos addressing the demonstrators. Carlos says that affordable housing is not the same thing as housing for the homeless. A female protester yells that Carlos does not represent the views of the community. A shouting match ensues. Vaillancourt reports that Mel King (community activist) tried to bring the two sides together. V: Footage of King addressing the crowd. King says that the two sides must unite to fight against the greed of MIT. Members of the crowd cheer. Vaillancourt reports that the Cambridge City Council will vote on MIT's proposal on Monday.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 01/07/1988

South Boston attitudes on integration

Description: Meg Vaillancourt reports that South Boston residents are opposed to the city's plans to integrate public housing projects. Residents are hostile to Mayor Ray Flynn when he attends a community meeting in South Boston to discuss plans for integration, with Doris Bunte of the Boston Housing Authority. Vaillancourt notes that South Boston residents have not changed their attitudes in the face of evidence that the BHA practices discrimination against African American tenants of public housing. Interviews with South Boston public housing residents about public housing integration. Many residents are opposed to integration. Some fear that the quality of life in the projects will decline after the housing projects are integrated. Others say that racial violence will be a result of integration. A few residents are not bothered by the prospect of integration. Vaillancourt notes that the controversy over public housing integration evokes memories of the busing crisis in the 1970s. This edition of the Ten O'Clock News also included the following item: Officials attempt to explain the new rules for the Boston Housing Authority's revised public housing tenant selection policy.
1:00:02: Visual: Footage of a white female South Boston resident looking out of the window of a housing project apartment. The woman says that she would like her neighborhood to remain white. Meg Vaillancourt reports that South Boston residents remain hostile to the idea of integration of public housing projects. V: Shots of white residents outside of a housing project in South Boston. Footage of a white female resident saying that South Boston should stay white; that there will be trouble if the housing projects are integrated. Footage of another white female South Boston resident saying that white residents have not received fair warning about the placement of African American families in white housing projects. Shots of white children playing with a hose outside of a housing project in South Boston. Vaillancourt reports that Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston) announced plans to integrate South Boston housing projects in October; that Flynn tried to explain the policy at a community meeting in South Boston in January. V: Footage of Flynn and Doris Bunte (Boston Housing Authority) the community meeting in January of 1988. Flynn addresses the crowd. A white woman shouts out a comment. Footage of Flynn approaching the stage as the crowd jeers at him. Vaillancourt notes that the audience at the community meeting was hostile to Flynn. Vaillancourt stands in front of a housing project building in South Boston. Vaillancourt reports that there is mounting evidence of discrimination against African American families requesting apartments in public housing projects. Vaillancourt notes that the mounting evidence has not changed the attitudes of white South Boston residents. V: Footage of Vaillancourt interviewing a white male South Boston resident. The man says that there will be trouble if African Americans move into the South Boston housing projects. Footage of another white male South Boston resident saying that the residents want their neighborhood to remain as it is. Footage of a white female South Boston resident saying that she will not be bothered if an African American family moves into her building. She says that African American families need housing as much as white families do. The woman says that some people do not feel the same way as she does; that she hopes no one will bother the African American families who move into the project. Shots of white residents outside of a project building; of a white baby playing in a wading pool outside of a project building. Vaillancourt reports that the city's housing policy has kept the housing projects segregated for fifty years; that the city is now changing its policy. Vaillancourt reports that some residents feel that the new policy will be biased. V: Footage of a white female South Boston resident sitting in a wading pool. The woman says that the city should not make tenants identify their race; that the city should place tenants in an apartment without knowing their race. Shots of the woman and two children in the wading pool. Vaillancourt notes that talk of integration in South Boston raises memories of the busing crisis in the 1970s. V: Footage of a white male South Boston resident saying that school desegregation caused the decline of the Boston School System; that most South Boston residents send their children to private schools. The man says that he will move out of public housing if African American families move in to the projects. Shots of female parochial school students walking toward a housing project building. Vaillancourt reports that the Boston Housing Authority (BHA) has not announced when the first African American family will move into the projects.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 06/16/1988

South Boston housing project

Description: Meg Vaillancourt reports that Mayor Ray Flynn has pledged to integrate public housing projects in South Boston by next year. Currently there are no African American families among the 2400 families living in the Old Colony Housing Project in South Boston. Interviews with South Boston housing project residents talking about their opposition to integration. Residents say that the quality of life will decline if African American families move into the project. Other residents say that violence will erupt if the projects are integrated. Interview with Flynn, who says that the housing projects will be integrated in a responsible manner. He talks about integration of public housing projects in Charlestown. Civil rights advocates accuse the Boston Housing Authority (BHA) of ignoring non-white families on the waiting list for apartments in South Boston projects. Interview with Alex Rodriguez of the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination, who says that the BHA's housing policies are illegal. Rodriguez threatens to take action against the city. Vaillancourt reports that the pace of integration in the housing projects has been slow. Interview with an African American laborer who says that he would not mind moving into a housing project in South Boston. This edition of the Ten O'Clock News also included the following item: Hope Kelly reviews the history of public housing in Boston
1:00:05: Visual: Footage of a white male South Boston resident saying that violence resulted from forced busing and "forced beaching." Footage of a white female South Boston resident speaking from the window of her project apartment. She says that she would prefer the neighborhood to remain white; that a racial war may erupt if non-whites move in. Shots of the Old Colony Housing Project in South Boston; of a sign reading, "Old Colony Public Housing Development." Meg Vaillancourt reports that there are close to 2400 families living in the Old Colony Housing Project; that 39 families are Latino, Asian or Native American; that there are no African American families in the project. George reports that Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston) has said that there are African American families on the waiting list for public housing; that the Boston Housing Authority (BHA) will place those families in the Old Colony Project next year. V: Shot of Flynn speaking to a reporter. Footage of a white female South Boston resident saying that the Mission Hill Housing Project was once a nice place to live; that housing projects decline when African American families move in. Footage of a white female resident saying that there will be fights and riots if African American families move into the projects; of another white female resident saying that the neighborhood will decline if it is integrated. Footage of Flynn being interviewed by Vaillancourt. Flynn says that the integration of the housing project will take place in a responsible and professional manner; that there will be no community disruption; that housing projects were integrated in Charlestown. Flynn says that members of the community must participate in the planning for integration. Vaillancourt reports that 900 families live in the housing projects in Charlestown; that 45 of those families are non-white. V: Shot of the exterior of the Boston Housing Authority building in Charlestown. Vaillancourt notes that civil rights advocates say that the BHA and the mayor have done little to promote integration of the projects in South Boston. V: Footage of Alex Rodriguez (Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination) being interviewed by Vaillancourt. Rodriguez says that he will recommend that the city receive no money unless desegregatory action is taken within 30 or 40 days. Rodriguez says that the city stands to lose millions of dollars. Vaillancourt reports that the pace of integration in the South Boston projects has been slow. V: Shots of the housing projects in South Boston. Vaillancourt notes that a spokesperson for the BHA says that there were more white families on the waiting lists for the South Boston projects. Vaillancourt reports that critics accuse the BHA of ignoring non-white families on the waiting list for the South Boston projects. V: Footage of Rodriguez saying that the BHA is denying entrance to the projects for non-white families. Rodriguez says that the BHA policy is illegal. Footage of a white female South Boston resident saying that she does not understand why African American families would want to move into the housing project. Vaillancourt notes that an African American man was working at the Old Colony Housing Project this afternoon. V: Footage of the African American worker saying that he would have no problem living in this project. Footage of a white male resident saying that Flynn will lose votes if he pushes for integration of the South Boston housing projects. Shot of a white woman and her children in front of a project building.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 10/29/1987

South End little league

Description: Meg Vaillancourt reports on the South End Little League championship series between the Dodgers and the Cardinals. Interviews with eleven- and twelve-year old players about why they like to play baseball. Vaillancourt notes that the diverse coaching staff is made up of volunteers from all over the city. Interviews with several coaches about their teams. One coach says that kids can make new friends and learn about people from different backgrounds through Little League baseball. Vaillancourt's report includes footage of the game, the players, the coaches, and the parents on the sidelines.
1:00:09: Visual: Footage of members of a South End Little League baseball team called the Dodgers. Shots of members of the Dodgers huddling up for a cheer before their game. The players run out to the field. Meg Vaillancourt reports that eleven- and twelve-year old South End Little League players had their last game of the season today. V: Shots of a player at bat; of a pitcher. Footage of Vaillancourt interviewing some of the players from the Dodgers. Vaillancourt asks one of the players what the game is about. The player replies that the game is about baseball. Another player says that the game is about friendship. A third player says that the game is about teamwork. Vaillancourt reports that the Dodgers played the Cardinals for the South End Little League Championship. V: Shots of players from the two teams at bat and out on the field. Footage of one of members of the Dodgers team speaking to Vaillancourt. The player says that it is important to communicate with the other players on your team; that players should not fight. Shot of a Dodgers' coach talking to a player. Shot of a Dodgers' player at bat. The crowd cheers for the player at bat. Footage of a Dodgers' player saying that he learned how to field ground balls this year. Footage of Vaillancourt interviewing the Dodger's bat boy. The bat boy says that it is not hard to be a bat boy. The bat boy says that he is careful not to trip when he goes to get the bats. Footage of a Dodgers' player being interviewed by Vaillancourt. The Dodgers' player says that he is going to Latin Academy next year; that he will study Latin. The player walks away to take his turn at bat. Vaillancourt reports that the South End Little League coaches are volunteers from all over the city; that the Dodgers are coached by a diverse committee of coaches. Vaillancourt reports that the Dodgers' coaches are male, female, Irish, Jewish, African American and Latino. V: Shots of a Cardinals' coach talking to two players; of a Dodgers' coach standing with some players near the bench. Shots of a Cardinals' player on the field; of a Dodgers' player at bat. Footage of a female Dodgers' coach being interviewed by Vaillancourt. The coach says that the Dodgers are playing to win tonight. Shots of a Dodgers' player going to bat; of a Cardinals' pitcher throwing a pitch. Vaillancourt reports that the Cardinals are ahead by two games in a 5-game series. Vaillancourt notes that the Cardinals have to win one more game to win the series. V: Shot of a Cardinals' player cheering for his teammates. Footage of a male Dodgers' coach saying that he has asked his players to give "110 %." Footage of a Dodgers' player saying that the best part of the game is winning; that the worst part of the game is losing. Shots of a parent on the sidelines. Shots of Dodgers' players at bat; of a Dodgers player stealing home. Vaillancourt reports that the Dodgers seem destined for a shutout when their star pitcher steals home plate. V: Footage of a Dodgers' player being interviewed by Vaillancourt. The Dodgers' player tells Vaillancourt why his teammates have nicknamed him "Jose Canseco". Shots of Cardinals' players sitting on the sidelines. Footage of a Cardinals' player being interviewed by Vaillancourt. The Cardinals' player says that the score is 5 to 0; that he does not think the Cardinals can win. Vaillancourt reports that the Cardinals staged a come-back in the bottom of the fourth inning. V: Shots of a Cardinals' player hitting the ball; of another Cardinals' player running to home plate. Shots of a Dodgers' player on the field. Shots of a parent giving advice to a Cardinals' player as he walks past. Shots of a Dodgers' player sitting on the sidelines with a small group of bystanders. Vaillancourt remarks that many of the bystanders and parents offer advice to the players. Vaillancourt reports that Little League games are played in six innings; that the games can last a long time. V: Shot of a Cardinals' player walking onto the field. Shot of a half-moon in the sky. Vaillancourt reports that the Dodgers lead 7 to 4 in the fifth inning; that the umpire stops the game as night falls. V: Shots of the field. Footage of an umpire saying that the inning will be continued during the next game. Shots of the Dodgers' and Cardinals' players shaking hands. Footage of a coach saying that he wants the kids to make friends and to learn how to play baseball. The coach says that the kids can make new friends and learn about how other families live. Vaillancourt reports that the coaches teach the kids that playing a good game is more important than the final score. V: Shots of the players shaking hands. Vaillancourt reports that the final inning of the game will be played tomorrow night at Peter's Field in the South End.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 08/09/1989

State of the City address

Description: Ray Flynn's State of the City address focuses on Stuart murder case, police behavior, and racism. He contrasts and challenges stereotypes of different Boston neighborhoods. Interviews with people responding the speech.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 01/10/1990

Susan Sontag

Description: End of Susan Sontag interview. Discussion of the play Jacques and his Master and Songtag's staging of it, while cutaways are being shot. Stage area. American Repertory Theater.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 01/17/1985

TOCN show tape

Description: Reporter Christopher Lydon talks about presidential campaign. Reporter Gail Harris reports on President Ronald Reagan's press conference about an environmental report; footage of Lieutenant Governor John Kerry, David Bartley, and Congressman James Shannon (all candidates for US Senate) commenting on acid rain. Bartley says Kerry and Shannon are not doing enough about acid rain. Harris reports on new seat belt and air bag regulations. Lydon presents mobster Raymond Patriarca obituary, compares Patriarca to "The Godfather." Harris reports on new technology for detecting cancer. Footage of South Norfolk Council for Children representative Cathy Wheeler telling story of "Angie." Reporter Meg Vaillancourt gives stats for residential programs for youth with mental health issues. Footage of New Bedford Council for Children representative Jean Peterson talking about budget. Philip Johnston, human services secretary talks about state of children's mental healthcare. Dr. Eli Newberger (of Children's Hospital) testifies on state funding of mental health support services for children. Dr. Michael Jellinek (Chief of Child Psychology at Mass. General Hospital) talks about budget. Vaillancourt talks about growing difficulty of mental health over time. Charles Fried (Harvard Law School) and Anthony Lewis (New York Times) studio interview on Supreme Court at term's end: apparently conservative trend and states' rights inclination in recent decisions. Broadcast ends with international news: OPEC; Libyan bombing; dock worker strike in Great Britain; correspondent in England talks about economic situation of British Pound Sterling.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 07/11/1984

Teen justice

Description: Meg Vaillancourt interviews South Boston high school sophomore boys about their view of confessed teenage murderer William Flynn in the Pamela Smart trial. Interview with Edward Loughran, Commissioner of the Department of Youth Services, about regulations surrounding juvenile offenders charged with capital crimes in Massachusetts.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 03/18/1991

Ten years after court order

Description: Review of the first few years of court ordered desgregation, including explosion of racism and violence, and the heavy police patrol required to keep things under control. Garrity is still in charge of the Boston schools. Although things are more quiet, and certain programs are working , like magnet schools, a high percentage of Boston students are still significantly under the national average. The Boston school system is also still overwhelmingly made up of minority students. Black parents propose ‘freedom of choice’ plan. Interviews with Robert Peterkin, Robert Spillane, and other officials. Classroom scenes of the current school system,highlighting Mildred Reed and her daughter Kim. They are Jamaica Plain residents, and Kim is bused to Brighton High School. Interview with Kim, where she talks about the benefits of being bused. Scenes of Kim getting on the bus, the bus ride, and in school.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 01/11/1984

Tsongas, Gorin, Orr on arena

Description: Press conference where Paul Tsongas, Bobby Orr, Wayne Cashman, and Boston real estate developer Rosalind Gorin present information on their interactions with Delware North concerning buying both the Boston Bruins and the Boston Garden, to build a new arena by North Station.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 02/28/1985

Tufts Apartheid Demonstrations

Description: Tufts University officials and students stand on the university quadrangle near Ballou Hall. Ballou Hall is being occupied by student protesters. Meg Vaillancourt interviews Robert Elias (professor, Tufts University) about the student occupation of Ballou Hall. Elias talks about negotiations between student demonstrators and the university administration, which were initiated by the faculty. Elias says that many students are concerned about Tufts' divestment policy; he adds that the demonstration has been an educational experience. Elias says that he does not know how students will react to the administrations' proposals to end the occupation. Students and members of the media are gathered under the portico of Ballou Hall. Protest signs hang at the entrance to the building. A protest sign hanging at the entrance to the hall reads "Biko Hall." Tufts University police officers stand near the students under the portico of the building. Elias and two other people enter the building. Students in the foyer of the building begin to chant and sing. Police officers stand directly in front of the entrance to the building. The protesters are visible as they chant and sing.
1:00:00: Visual: Three men stand on the quadrangle at Tufts University, talking about the student apartheid protest. The noise of a protester speaking into a bullhorn is audible. Shot of a sign reading, "You've made your point. Now get out." The sign is hung from two trees on the quadrangle. Tents are set up across from Ballou Hall, near the sign on the quadrangle. A song by Bob Marley, "Get Up, Stand Up" plays from a radio. Students stand on the quad and in front of Ballou Hall. Ballou Hall has been occupied by students protesting the school's refusal to divest from South Africa. Small groups of students are gathered on the quad. Two white male students talk to one another on the quadrangle. Music by Bob Marley continues to play. An African American male in a red shirt speaks to a white male in a suit and tie. The African American male holds a pen and paper in his hand. Some white male students and another white male in a suit and tie are standing with the two men. 1:04:54: V: Meg Vaillancourt sets up an interview on the quadrangle with Professor Robert Elias (professor, Tufts University). Vaillancourt asks Elias about student support for the protesters. She also asks about the possibility of negotiations with the administration. Elias says that negotiations with the protesters were initiated by a small group of faculty members; that the president of the university approved a proposal put forth by the faculty; that the faculty members presented the proposal to the students. Elias says that the students agreed to give an answer on the proposal by 4:30 pm, if the administration would promise to keep the police out of the building. Elias notes that the faculty and administration are now waiting for the protesters' decision. Elias says that the divestment policy is a widespread concern among students; that the protest has drawn attention to the issue on campus. Elias says that the demonstration has served an educational purpose; that he will be sorry to see it end badly. Vaillancourt asks about the educational value of negotiations. Elias talks about a conflict resolution course which is being taught on campus. Elias says that the protesters had tried to communicate their position to the administration before resorting to the demonstration; that the protesters felt that they were not being heard by the administration. Vaillancourt refers to the the book, Getting To Yes, by Roger Fisher. Elias says that negotiations were necessary; that the administration and the protesters were locked in a stalemate. Vaillancourt asks if both sides "won" in the negotiations. Elias says that he does not know which side "won"; that he does not know how the protesters will react to the proposal by the administration. Vaillancourt closes the interview. 1:09:49: V: Members of the media sit on a low wall in front of Ballou Hall. They read the newspaper and talk to one another. Many have placed their cameras on the ground. 1:10:49: V: A group of people, including Elias and the African American man in the red shirt, is gathered in front of the entrance to Ballou Hall. A sign on the door to Ballou Hall reads, "The poeple united will never be defeated." A sign on one of the columns of the portico reads, "Down with racist pig-dogs." Groups of people standing beneath the portico talk casually to one another. Three Tufts University police officers stand in front of the doors to Ballou Hall. Elias and two other people enter the hall, passing behind the police officers. The crowd of students outside of the hall begins to clap rhythmically. Student protesters who had been inside of the building appear in the foyer of Ballou Hall. They sit down and begin to sing and clap. The police officers continue to block the entrance of the building. Shots of students sitting and standing behind the police officers. The students sing and clap. A sign above the entranceway reads, "The police close the doors if we talk to you." Someone closes the inner doors to the building. The students are behind the doors. 1:15:22: V: Close-up shot of a Tufts University Police Department logo on the uniform of a police officer. Two white male Tufts officials confer in front of the entrance to Ballou Hall. A sign hangs in front of the portico reading, "Biko Hall." The police officers stand casually beneath the portico. Student protesters are visible through the glass windows on the doors to Ballou Hall. The windows also reflect back the scene on the quad. Elias and the African American man in the red shirt exit Ballou Hall. The protesters stand in the foyer of Ballou Hall. They clap their hands and chant, "The people united will never be defeated." The students sit and stand in the entrance to the building, behind the police officers. The students hold hands. 1:18:13: V: The students occupying Ballou Hall are visible behind the police officers who are blocking the entrance. The students stand and clap their hands in unison to music. The students sing along with the song "Free Nelson Mandela." The police officers stand quietly in front of the students. Students and the media stand under the portico, facing the protesters inside the hall. Several students clap and sing along with the protesters inside the hall. The students begin to clap and chant, "The people united will never be defeated." Camera crews tape students inside the building. Students standing under the portico clap and chant. The students begin to chant, "Apartheid kills. Tufts pays the bills." Shots of individual students clapping and chanting." Students chant, "Apartheid no. Financial aid yes."
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 04/26/1985

Ward 7 Democrats

Description: Meg Vaillancourt reports on the failure of Ward 7 to elect any minority delegates to the Massachusetts State Democratic Party convention. Minority voters accuse party bosses of discouraging minorities from running as delegates. Ward 7 residents Dianne Wilkerson and Bernard Sneed both ran for delegate in Ward 7 last year. Sneed calls for a change in the election process. Interviews with Wilkerson and Sneed. Wilkerson accuses City Councilor James Kelly of setting up the election to be restrictive and hostile to minority delegates. Vaillancourt quotes Kelly as saying that he set up a fair election and that Wilkerson and Sneed lost. Wilkerson and Sneed were named as delegates on an appeal to the State Democratic Party.
1:00:00: Visual: Footage of Dianne Wilkerson (Ward 7 resident) saying that minority voters have been consistently loyal to the Democratic Party. Wilkerson questions the commitment of the Democratic Party to minority participation. Shots of residents on the streets of Ward 7 in Boston; of minority residents on a busy street corner; of a commercial street in South Boston; of two African American women entering a shoe store; of pedestrians walking by the shoe store. Meg Vaillancourt reports that Boston's Ward 7 has always been a stronghold of the Democratic Party; that Ward 7 stretches from Upham's Corner in Dorchester to South Boston. Vaillancourt notes that Ward 7 has ten precincts; that eight of the precincts are almost totally white; that two of the precincts have large Hispanic and African American populations; that Ward 7 has never elected any minorities as delegates to the state party convention. Vaillancourt reports that minority voters accuse party bosses of discouraging minorities from running as delegates. V: Footage of Wilkerson being interviewed by Vaillancourt. Wilkerson says that party leaders publish notices about party caucuses in the South Boston Tribune newspaper; that minority voters do not read the South Boston Tribune because they do not live in South Boston. Vaillancourt notes that Wilkerson and Bernard Sneed (Ward 7 resident) both ran for delegate in Ward 7 last year; that neither was elected to the position. Vaillancourt reports that Wilkerson and Sneed say that the election for delegates was selectively advertised; that Wilkerson and Sneed say that the election was held in an area of South Boston which was outside of the ward. V: Shot of Vaillancourt interviewing Sneed; of a streetcorner in a minority neighborhood. Footage of Vaillancourt interviewing Wilkerson. Vaillancourt asks if the election was set up to put Wilkerson and Sneed at a disadvantage. Wilkerson says that the election was set up to be "uncomfortable, prohibitive, restrictive, harassing and hostile." Wilkerson notes that James Kelly (Boston City Council) set up the election. Vaillancourt reports that Kelly is Chairman of the Ward 7 Democratic Committee; that Kelly is a vocal opponent of affirmative action. V: Shot of Kelly working behind a desk in an office. On-screen graphics show a quote from Kelly which reads, "We held a full and fair election. And they lost." Vaillancourt reports that Wilkerson accuses Kelly of making her candidacy difficult. V: Footage of Wilkerson saying that the Democratic Party needs to monitor the elections in Ward 7. Footage of Sneed saying that minorities will not be elected as delegates until the process is changed. Shot of residents on a streetcorner in a minority neighborhood. Vaillancourt stands on a streetcorner. Vaillancourt reports that Sneed and Wilkerson have won their appeal to the State Democratic Party Committee; that the Committee has forced Ward 7 to accept Wilkerson, Sneed and three other minority delegates as add-on delegates to the state convention. Vaillancourt notes that much of the work by the other Ward 7 delegates has already been finished.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 05/21/1987

Water supply, Quabbin Reservoir

Description: Eastern Massachusetts demand is too much for the water supply from the Quabbin Reservoir. Conservation measures are being taken, mainly in stopping leaks from the pipes used to transport the water. The Water Resources Authority is seeking an alternative supply for Boston area water, which may include the Sudbury river. Environmentalist argue against the idea. Massachusetts Environmental Affairs Secretary James Hoyte says they're keeping the option open. Additional story on the Merrimack River, it's possible use as an alternative water supply, and the debate over that decision.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 11/12/1986

Wilson's contract in jeopardy

Description: Meg Vaillancourt reports that the Boston School Committee is deeply divided over whether to renew the contract of superintendent Laval Wilson. Committee members discuss Wilson's contract renewal at a School Committee meeting. Committee member John O'Bryant says that he refuses to watch Wilson be lynched by members of the Committee who do not respect his professionalism. Vaillancourt reviews Wilson's record as superintendent. She speculates on how each member of the Committee will vote and quotes Committee member John Nucci as saying that Wilson's prospects look "gloomy." Vaillancourt reports accusations that Mayor Ray Flynn has been lobbying against Wilson. This edition of the Ten O'Clock News also included the following item: Marcus Jones reports on the debate over the terms "black" and "African American"
1:00:18: Visual: Footage of Dr. Laval Wilson (Superintendent, Boston Public Schools) addressing members of the Boston School Committee at a meeting of the School Committee. Meg Vaillancourt reports that Wilson is fighting for his job. Vaillancourt reports that Wilson told the School Committee at last night's meeting that the debate over his contract should be postponed. Vaillancourt notes that Wilson said that he did not have proper legal counsel with him at last night's meeting. Vaillancourt adds that there are deep divisions among School Committee members over the renewal of Wilson's contract. V: Footage from Say Brother of School Committee members John O'Bryant, Juanita Wade and Rita Walsh Tomasini at a School Committee meeting. Footage of Abigail Browne (Boston School Committee) saying that the School Committee must decide whether it will negotiate a new contract with Wilson. Browne says that Wilson does not need legal counsel if the School Committee decides not to negotiate a contract. Footage of Peggy Davis-Mullen (Boston School Committee) saying that she would like the School Committee to decide if it should renew Wilson's contract. Footage of John Nucci (Boston School Committee) saying that Wilson has made a respectful request not to negotiate this evening. Nucci says that he would not blame Wilson if he got up and left the meeting. Vaillancourt reports that Wilson and his supporters were prepared to walk out of the meeting; that they did not walk out of the meeting. V: Footage of O'Bryant speaking to a few School Committee members during a break in the meeting. O'Bryant says that he refuses to watch Wilson "be lynched" by Committee members who have no respect for his professionalism. Vaillancourt reports that the meeting was postponed until next week. V: Shots of audience members at the School Committee meeting; of Wilson standing alone at the meeting as he sips a beverage. Vaillancourt reports that some School Committee members are angry about Wilson's handling of a new student assignment plan; that some members fault Wilson for stalled contract talks with the teachers' union. Vaillancourt notes that Wilson is credited with an increase in student test scores; that Wilson is blamed for the School Department's $3 milllion deficit. V: Shots of a group of School Committee members conferring, including Davis-Mullen, Daniel Burke, Robert Cappucci, and Walsh-Tomasini; of Wilson conferring with another group of School Committee members, including Nucci, O'Bryant, and John Grady. Vaillancourt reports that Wilson asked for a raise and a housing allowance; that the School Committee voted in the fall to begin negotiations with Wilson. Vaillancourt notes that some members do not want to renew his contract. V: Shots of Davis-Mullen, Wilson and Thomas O'Reilly (President, Boston School Committee) at a School Committee Meeting. Footage of Robert Cappucci saying that he will give no support to Wilson. Vaillancourt reports that Wilson needs seven votes in order to extend his contract. Vaillancourt notes that Committee members Walsh Tomasini, Cappucci, Davis-Mullen, Burke, Kitty Bowman, and Browne are opposed to renewing Wilson's contract; that Committee members O'Bryant, Jean McGuire, Wade, Gerald Anderson and Grady support Wilson; that Committee members Nucci and O'Reilly are undecided. V: On-screen text details the breakdown of the potential votes of School Committee members. Vaillancourt reports that O'Reilly has said that he is open to negotiating with Wilson; that O'Reilly has not said how he will vote. Vaillancourt reports that Nucci wants to discuss Wilson's plans to deal with the School Department deficit before casting his vote. Vaillancourt notes that Nucci has characterized Wilson's chances as "gloomy." V: Shots of O'Reilly; of Nucci. Vaillancourt reports that O'Bryant has accused Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston) of lobbying against Wilson. Vaillancourt reports that a spokesman for Flynn said that "there is no basis for that charge. The mayor has worked cooperatively with the Superintendent and the School Committee." V: Shots of O'Bryant; of Flynn. A quote from a Flynn spokesman appears written on the screen. Vaillancourt reports that Flynn would like to have more influence over the school system; that Flynn has suggested doing away with the Boston School Committee. Vaillancourt wonders if Flynn would also like to choose a superintendent more to his liking.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 02/15/1989