Description: Senator Edward Brooke holds a press conference at the offices of Robert McGrath (attorney for Edward Brooke) to address a story about his personal finances that appeared in the Boston Globe. Brooke admits to making a false statement about the receipt of a personal loan in an out-of-court deposition for his divorce. Brooke says that he did not commit perjury by making a "misstatement" in the divorce proceedings; that he did not inflate his financial liability in the divorce settlement. Brooke discusses the divorce settlement and says that it is "fair and equitable." Brooke denies allegations by the Boston Globe that he spends more than he earns. Brooke describes the sources of his income, including details of the purchases and estimated values of his properties. Brooke apologizes to constituents and asks for their forgiveness and understanding. The media asks probing questions about his personal life and finances. Brooke admits that his daughter is responsible for leaking the story to the press.
11:27:58: Visual: Members of the media are gathered in a small room at the offices of Robert McGrath (attorney for Edward Brooke). The media waits for the arrival of Edward Brooke (US Senator). Members of the press are crowded into the small room. Some are sitting and some are standing. Camera crews set up cameras and microphones. Walt Sanders (WBZ) is among the reporters. 11:30:19: V: Brooke arrives and stands at the front of the room. McGrath stands at his side. Brooke says that the story in The Boston Globe about his personal finances is mostly correct. He notes that there was an error in the caption. Brooke says that he has never admitted to swearing falsely about a $49,000 loan. Brooke apologizes for making a "misstatement and a mistake." He asks for forgiveness and understanding from his constituents. Brooke admits that he never received a $49,000 loan from A. Raymond Tye (Boston liquor wholesaler). He adds that he made a false statement about the receipt of the loan in an out of court deposition for his divorce case. Brooke says that he does owe $49,000; that $2,000 is owed to Tye; that the remaining money belonged to his mother-in-law; that the money was in his control and spent according to the wishes of his mother-in-law. Brooke adds that his divorce is a private matter; that he does not want to discuss the $47,000 debt; that the debt is a family matter. Brooke notes that the out of court deposition was never signed; that McGrath and Monroe Inker (attorney for Brooke's wife) stated in the deposition that the debt was a matter to be settled privately. Brooke states that the depositions were never entered into court. He apologizes for having made a misstatement about the loan. 11:34:57: V: A reporter asks Brooke about allegations that he has been spending more than he has earned. Brooke says that those allegations in The Boston Globe story are untrue; that he has never spent more money than he has earned. Brooke adds that he made rough estimates of his living expenses in a financial statement for the divorce; that his income is comprised of his salary, honoraria received from speaking engagements, stocks, and rental fees from his properties on St. Martin and Martha's Vineyard. Brooke discusses details of the purchases and estimated values of his properties on Martha's Vineyard and St. Martin, his home in Newton, and his apartment in Washington D.C. Brooke notes that he bought his home in Newton with funds realized from the sale of his first home in Roxbury. He adds that he is regularly paying off a $125,000 loan which he received to pay for the property in St. Martin; that he is also paying a mortgage on his apartment in Washington D.C. Brooke says that he has no cash and securities holdings, despite reports to the contrary by The Boston Globe. Brooke notes that he has one checking account from which he pays all of his bills. He says that he would like to put an end to rumors about his "vast holdings." Brooke adds that there is nothing wrong with making a profit from a "sane" investment in real estate. 11:39:16: V: A reporter asks Brooke if he committed perjury in making a "misstatement" in the divorce proceedings. Brooke says that he did not commit perjury; that he admitted under oath to owing $49,000; that he misstated the party to whom he owed the money. The reporter insists that Brooke committed perjury by saying that he owed all of the money to Tye. Brooke insists that he did not commit perjury; that he stated the correct amount of money owed; that he said the money was owed to Tye in order to avoid bringing a private family matter into the court settlement. The reporter asks if his misstatement inflated his financial liability in the divorce settlement. Brooke says that he had always intended to pay back the money; that he had spent the money for his family with his mother-in-law's consent; that he did not inflate his liability because he was obligated to pay back the money. Brooke notes that his wife knew about the debt to his mother-in-law; that the debt did not affect the settlement. Brooke adds that the settlement gave his wife their home in Newton and the property in St. Martin as well as an annual alimony payment of $18,000 and all health and medical insurance. Brooke explains that he has assumed all mortgage payments for the property in St. Martin given to his wife in the settlement; that the divorce settlement was fair and equitable. Brooke says that divorce settlements are very painful; that he does not know how The Boston Globe gained access to the depositions; that he has never read the depositions. Brooke says that he wants to clarify the facts surrounding the divorce settlement because of inaccuracies in the story by The Boston Globe. Brooke says that he thinks his constituents will forgive him; that he has a strong record of public service. Brooke says that his mistakes in the divorce proceedings were not related to public funds or to his performance as US Senator. Brooke adds that he has never tried to cheat his wife; that he has never received any money through dishonest means. Brooke says that he will not take legal action against The Boston Globe; that their story was substantially correct. Brooke notes that he never admitted to falsely swearing about his finances under oath, as was reported in the Globe. Brooke says again that he made a "mistake and a misstatement." Brooke says that the depositions were not provided to the Globe by him or his attorney; that the depositions must have been provided by his wife or her attorney; that the depositions were never filed in court; that he never read them; that they exist for the sole purpose of reaching a financial agreement in the divorce settlement. A reporter asks Brooke if someone has "an axe to grind" about the settlement. Brooke says that someone peddled this story to the news media all over the state of Massachusetts and in Washington D.C.; that the release of the story coincides with his bid for reelection to the US Senate; that he feels like he is being "blackmailed." Brooke says that he thinks the story is being used in an attempt to force him to give up more to his wife in the divorce settlement. Brooke notes that he has given "three-fourths" of his assets to his wife in the settlement; that the settlement is fair and equitable. Brooke admits that his daughter, Remi, is responsible for leaking the story to the media. A reporter asks Brooke if his mother-in-law "holds the note" to the personal debt. Brooke responds that there is no note. Brooke explains that his mother-in-law received an insurance settlement of $100,000 from a car accident which left her paraplegic. Brooke says that this money was spent according to the wishes of his mother-in-law; that she gave him control of this money; that much of this money was spent on her doctor's bills and expenses; that he has been paying this money back and owes about $30,000. A reporter notes that Brooke sponsored legislation forcing full financial disclosure from US Senators. Brooke says that he has always fought against corruption in government; that full financial disclosure by US Senators is ethically important. A reporter asks Brooke if he has received a "bum rap." Brooke says no.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 05/26/1978
Description: This tape is a compilation of news stories from the 1988 presidential campaign. Paul Brountas (Michael Dukakis campaign chairman), Susan Estrich (Dukakis campaign manager), and John Sasso (former Dukakis campaign manager) speak at a press conference on September 2, 1988. Brountas and Estrich welcome Sasso back to the Dukakis campaign. Sasso apologizes for the events leading up to his resignation the previous year. Sasso is happy to rejoin the campaign. Sasso answers questions from the media. Jesse Jackson (African American political leader) addresses the NAACP Convention in July of 1988. He talks about his campaign for the presidency. Jackson talks about his disadvantaged background. He says that he is running for the presidency so that future African Americans can run for the presidency. William Bulger is the emcee at his annual St. Patrick's Day Breakfast in 1988. Bulger and Robert Crane (State Treasurer) perform duets of Irish songs and parodies of Irish songs. Bulger exchanges witticisms and barbs with politicians at the breakfast including John Kerry (State Senator), Edward Kennedy (State Senator) and Michael Dukakis (Democratic candidate for Governor of Massachusetts). Jesse Jackson addresses an audience about the increase in poverty among African Americans under the administration of Ronald Reagan (US President). Jesse Jackson addresses an audience at Sanders Theater at Harvard University. Jackson talks about the civil rights movement. Thomas "Tip" O'Neill (former Speaker of the US House of Representatives) comes out of retirement to endorse Michael Dukakis for the presidency at a press conference outside of the Massachusetts State House. O'Neill defends liberals against Republican attacks. George Bush (Republican candidate for US president) and John Sununu (Governor of New Hampshire) speak at a press conference. Bush talks about the differences between him and Dukakis. Bush says that his views on the issues are more compatible with those of blue-collar Americans. Sununu answers questions from the media. Sununu criticizes Dukakis' performance as Governor of Massachusetts. Christy George interviews Alicia Munnell (economist). Munnell discusses Social Security, Medicare and the federal budget. Arlen Specter (US Senator) speaks at a press conference in front of the Massachusetts State House. Specter condemns Dukakis's furlough program in Massachusetts and his record on crime prevention. John Kerry (US Senator) is present. A reporter interviews a police official about crime prevention programs in Massachusetts. A reporter interviews Francis Bellotti (former Massachusetts Attorney General) and Ron Kaufman (coordinator for the Bush campaign) about crime in Massachusetts and the presidential campaign
1:00:05: Visual: Footage of a press conference at the Lafayette Hotel on September 2, 1988. Shots of members of an audience on their feet as they applaud. Paul Brountas (Dukakis campaign chairman), Susan Estrich (Dukakis campaign manager) and John Sasso (former Dukakis campaign manager) approach the podium. Brountas announces that Sasso has rejoined the presidential campaign of Michael Dukakis (governor of Massachusetts) as vice-chairman; that he and Estrich will continue in their positions. The audience applauds. Brountas reports that the campaign staff will report to Estrich; that he, Estrich, and Sasso will report to Dukakis. Brountas says that Sasso will bring strength, wisdom, and political insight to the campaign. Brountas says that Sasso will serve as an advisor to Dukakis; that Sasso will take on tough assignments and special projects. Brountas says that Sasso is a friend to Dukakis and the campaign staff. Brountas says that Sasso is a man of integrity and substance. Brountas says that the presidential campaign is entering its final phase; that the Dukakis campaign will reach out to the most talented members of the Democratic Party in the run up to the election. Brountas says that Sasso's return marks the beginning of this outreach process. The crowd applauds. Brountas says that Dukakis's success has energized the Democratic Party; that the Dukakis campaign has raised the hopes of Americans who have been excluded during the presidency of Ronald Reagan (US President). Brountas invites Estrich to speak. The crowd applauds. Estrich says that she and the campaign staff are happy to welcome Sasso back to the campaign; that she is happy to be working with Sasso during the final stretch of the campaign. Estrich says "welcome home" to Sasso. The crowd applauds. Sasso shakes Estrich's hand and kisses her cheek. Sasso shakes Brountas's hand. Sasso says that he is delighted to return to the Dukakis campaign; that he is committed to Dukakis. Sasso says that Dukakis will make an excellent president; that he has the strength and other qualities necessary to be president. The crowd applauds. Sasso says that he made an error in judgement last September. Sasso apologizes for hurting Joseph Biden (US Senator) and his family. Sasso says that Biden is a man of strong character; that Biden had attributed his quotations to Neil Kinnock (British Labour leader) on other occasions; that Biden never meant to mislead the American people. Sasso thanks Dukakis for his friendship. Sasso thanks Jack Connors (Hill Holliday Connors Cosmopulos Inc) for allowing him to take a leave of absence to rejoin the campaign. Sasso takes questions from reporters. Sasso says that Dukakis talked to him about rejoining the campaign earlier in the week. A reporter asks if the campaign of George Bush (Republican nominee for US president) has been able to put the Dukakis campaign on the defensive. Sasso says no. Estrich talks about other people who have been hired onto the Dukakis campaign at all levels in the past few weeks. Sasso says that he will adhere to the high standards set by Dukakis. Sasso says that there are contrasts and issues which must be highlighted for the voters as they make their choices. Sasso says that he will not shy away from pointing out those issues. The audience applauds. Sasso says that the Dukakis campaign has been reaching out to others since the beginning; that the campaign has reached out to Jesse Jackson (African American political leader) and to independent voters. Sasso says that the campaign is inclusive. A reporter asks Sasso about Lee Atwater (Bush campaign manager). Sasso says that he has no idea about what Atwater has planned. Sasso says that presidential campaigns are never easy; that Dukakis has met every challenge so far. Sasso thanks the reporters. The audience applauds. 1:13:00: V: Footage of Jesse Jackson addressing the NAACP Convention in July of 1988. Jackson talks about the need for a new direction for the nation. Jackson says that he plans to run for the presidency. Jackson says that he has been told not to run for the presidency because he cannot win. Jackson says that he has fought against the odds for his whole life. Jackson says that he is an "odds-breaker and a dream-maker;" that he will not turn back. The audience applauds. The crowd begins to chant, "Jesse." Jackson says that he is running because he wants to make his grandmother happy once more before she dies. Jackson says that he will run for the presidency so that future African Americans can run for the presidency. Jackson says that he wants every child in the US to believe that he or she can become president. Jackson says that he understands hard times and broken families. Jackson says, "if I can, you can." Jackson says that he understands all of the sociologists categories, including subclass, subculture, underclass, ethnic minority, and deprived. Jackson says that he was born to a teenage mother who was born to a teenage mother. Jackson says that he was delivered by a midwife into a three-room house. Jackson says that his house did not have an indoor bathroom; that his house was cold. Jackson says that his mother did not prepare a turkey dinner for the family on Thanksgiving Day; that his mother was preparing another family's turkey on Thanksgiving Day; that his family ate the leftovers from another family's dinner. Jones says that his mother worked hard to clothe him nicely for school; that his schoolteachers made less money than white teachers; that he still learned to read and write. The audience applauds. Jackson tells the audience not to surrender or to turn back. Jackson says that the struggle will not be easy; that he has faith. Jackson says that he will not turn back or surrender. Jackson says that he may not be elected as the Democratic nominee; that he knows he is qualified to be the Democratic nominee. The audience members rise to their feet and applaud. Jackson embraces NAACP leaders as he turns away from the podium. 1:20:17: V: Footage from Barry Cunningham's report on Jackson's speech to the NAACP Convention. 1:20:44: V: Footage from Cablevision of William Bulger's annual St. Patrick's Day Breakfast in 1988. Michael Connolly (Massachusetts Secretary of State) calls out a light-hearted remark at the breakfast. William Bulger (President of the Massachusetts State Senate) stands at a podium with a hand-held microphone. An Irish band is arranged behind him. Bulger makes a few jokes in front of the audience. Bulger makes a joke at the expense of Thomas McGee (former Speaker of the Massachusetts House of Representative). McGee is seated near the stage. Shot of James Kelly (Boston City Council) laughing in the audience. Shots of the audience members, seated at long tables. Bulger makes references to Michael Dukakis (Governor of Massachusetts), Evelyn Murphy (Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts), Joseph Feeney (Chief Justice, Boston Municipal Court). Bulger notes that Newman Flanagan (District Attorney) is present. Shot of Flanagan. Bulger and Robert Crane (Massachusetts State Treasurer) sing a duet of Irish songs. Shots of audience members seated at the breakfast. Bulger continues to make jokes for the audience. Shot of Joe Moakley (US Congressman) seated at the breakfast. Bulger welcomes Moakley and asks if Dukakis and Kitty Dukakis (wife of Michael Dukakis) have arrived. Bulger introduces co-host Michael Flaherty (State Representative). Bulger roasts John Kerry (US Senator) who is seated next to McGee at the breakfast. Shot of Kerry. Bulger asks Kerry why Edward Kennedy (US Senator) never comes to the breakfast. Bulger jokes about the Boston Herald newspaper, which has been taken over by Rupert Murdoch (Australian media magnate). Bulger jokes about Kerry's wealth. Bulger jokes about US foreign policy in Nicaragua. Bulger jokes about Joseph Kennedy (US Congressman). Bulger jokes about running for the US Senate. Shots of the audience. Edward Kennedy arrives and approaches the podium. Kennedy presents Bulger with a bag of trash. Bulger tells Kennedy to bring the trash to Hyannisport. Dukakis approaches the podium and embraces Bulger as he is speaking. Bulger welcomes Dukakis. Dukakis sits down next to the podium. Bulger jokes about Dukakis's campaign strategy and his lack of charisma. Bulger jokes about Dukakis's Greek background. Bulger jokes about Dukakis's newfound national prominence. Bulger predicts that Dukakis will win the Democratic nomination. Bulger compliments Dukakis on his integrity and competence. Dukakis takes the microphone. Dukakis says that he will bring Bulger with him to the Democratic Convention in Atlanta so that Bulger can help him make back-room deals. Bulger makes a joke at the expense of Raymond Shamie (Chairman, Massachusetts Republican Party). Crane takes the microphone to sing a song about Bulger to the tune of an Irish song. The audience claps for Crane. 1:40:37: V: Footage from WBZ-TV of Jesse Jackson (African-American political leader) addressing an audience. Jackson says that one-third of African Americans are living in poverty after eight years of the Reagan administration. Shots of the audience. Jackson urges the audience to vote against George Bush (Republican nominee for US president). The audience applauds. Shot of an young African American man speaking to a reporter. 1:41:32: V:Footage of Jackson addressing an audience at Sanders Theater at Harvard University. The audience members stand on their feet as they applaud one of Jackson's remarks. Jackson talks about the civil rights movement. 1:41:55: V: Footage of Tip O'Neill (former Speaker of the US House of Representatives) arriving at a press conference outside of the Massachusetts State House. O'Neill greets other Dukakis supporters, including John Nucci (Boston School Committee). Kevin Fitzgerald (State Representative) says that much has been said about Boston, Brookline, Cambridge and the whole state of Massachusetts during the presidential campaign. Fitzgerald says that some have taken offense to those comments. Fitzgerald introduces O'Neill. Fitzgerald says that O'Neill will address some of the issues in the campaign. O'Neill thanks the audience. O'Neill says that he misses press conferences and public service. O'Neill says that he has been staying out of the public eye since his illness; that he speaks to Michael Dukakis (Democratic nominee for US president) about once a week. Dukakis says that Massachusetts is the only one of the fifty states that can compete with Berlin, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea or Singapore. Shots of the media and audience members. Many audiences hold Dukakis campaign signs. O'Neill says that Dukakis is the best candidate for the presidency. O'Neill accuses George Bush of forgetting his roots. O'Neill says that Bush was once a moderate Republican; that Bush has now-joined the ultra-conservatives. Shot of a Dukakis campaign sign. O'Neill says that Bush has lost sight of his eastern Republican support since he became vice president. O'Neill says that Dukakis is an innovator; that Dukakis is the best candidate for president. O'Neill invites questions from the media. The audience members applaud. A reporter comments that the Republicans have painted Dukakis as a "liberal." O'Neill says that there are few liberals left; that he was a liberal. O'Neill says that liberals developed "middle America." O'Neill says that sixty-five percent of Americans were impoverished when he started out in public life. 1:46:35: V: George Bush (Republican nominee for US President) speaks at a press conference. Bush says that he needs to get his message across to voters; that he needs to highlight the differences between him and Michael Dukakis (Democratic nominee for US President). Bush says that his views on gun control and other issues are more in line with "blue-collar America." Shots of the media at the press conference. Bush says that he must make it clear that his administration will keep the economic recovery going. Bush says that he will focus on "neighborhood values" and the role of the federal government in Americans. Bush thanks the media. He leaves the podium, accompanied by Barbara Bush (wife of George Bush). John Sununu (Governor of New Hampshire) approaches the podium. A reporter asks Sununu if he has a personal vendetta against Dukakis because of a disagreement over the Seabrook nuclear plant. Sununu says that he would like to correct some misperceptions about Dukakis. Sununu says that Massachusetts ranks fifth or sixth among the six New England states in terms of manufacturing jobs and jobs associated with trade. Sununu says that he is completely objective about the Dukakis campaign; that he has nothing personal against Dukakis. A reporter asks Sununu about Dukakis's objections to Bush's proposed budget. Sununu says that Dukakis is avoiding a discussion of the issues. Sununu encourages the media to focus on the debate instead of ancillary events surrounding the debate. Sununu says that Dukakis's employment record has been misrepresented. The audience includes David Locke (State Senator). 1:50:56: V: Christy George sets up an interview with Alicia Munnell (economist). Munnell tells George not to ask her a certain question about the economy. George asks Munnell about possible cuts to entitlement programs like Social Security. Munnell says that every government expenditure must be examined; that there is no reason not to look at Social Security. Munnell says that Social Security accounts for 22% of government outlays; that Social Security and Medicare account for almost 30% of government outlays. Munnell says that one must examine whether Social Security is contributing to the deficit problem. Munnell says that Social Security has been bringing in more money than it has been paying out for five years. 1:53:22: V: Arlen Specter (US Senator) speaks at a press conference in front of the Massachusetts State House. Specter says that he is at the conference on behalf of George Bush (Republican nominee for US president). Specter says that Bush wants him to compare the Bush position on crime control to that of Michael Dukakis (Democratic nominee for US president). Specter says that he will comment on Dukakis's controversial furlough program. Specter says that he has studied the furlough program. Specter reviews his record on crime and prison reform. Specter says that he advocates furlough programs if they are properly directed. Shot of the exterior of the Massachusetts State House. Shots of the press conference. Specter continues to talk about furlough programs. Shot of John Kerry (US Senator) at the press conference. Jim Braude (Tax Equity Alliance for Massachusetts) and Robert Rufo (Suffolk County Sheriff) are also in the crowd. Shot of Francis X. Bellotti (former Massachusetts Attorney General) and William Delahunt (Norfolk County District Attorney) at the press conference. Specter says that Dukakis's furlough program allows furlough releases for "career criminals" and those who were sentenced to life without parole. Specter takes questions from the media. Specter says that he invited Kerry and James Shannon (Massachusetts Attorney General). Specter invites Kerry to the microphone. Kerry says that he will talk about the meaning of the press conference. A reporter asks a police official about the press conference. The reporter asks the police official if Dukakis is "soft on crime." The police official says that the state of Massachusetts has not been "soft on crime"; that the state of Massachusetts has one of the lowest crime rates in the nation. The police official says that Dukakis deserves some credit for the low crime rate in Massachusetts. The police official says that law enforcement has been working together with elected officials to reduce crime. The reporter asks what Dukakis has done to help law enforcement. The police official says that Dukakis meets once a month with the Anti-Crime Council; that the Anti-Crime Council discusses issues and brings the law enforcement community together. The reporter asks if the police official is annoyed at Bush's rhetoric about crime in Massachusetts. The police official says that he came to listen to Specter today. Footage of Kerry speaking to an older white man after the press conference. Shot of Bellotti speaking to Ron Kaufman (coordinator for the George Bush electoral campaign). Footage of Bellotti being interviewed. A reporter asks if Dukakis's furlough program is flawed. Bellotti says that Dukakis tried to tighten up the state's original furlough program. Bellotti says that the media is focusing on furlough programs and the death penalty. Bellotti says that the crime rate in Massachusetts is below the national average; that it is easy to find fault with furlough programs. The reporter asks Bellotti if Bush is doing Dukakis a disservice by sending people out to talk about Dukakis's record on crime. Bellotti says that Bush's campaign rhetoric about Dukakis's record on crime is not true. Bellotti says that Dukakis has pushed all of the law enforcement units working together. Bellotti says that Bush's campaign rhetoric is politics as usual. Shot of Specter getting into his car in front of the Massachusetts State House. Footage of Kaufman being interviewed. Kaufman says that Specter has a lot of experience with criminal justice; that it is important for Specter to speak out on the issue. The reporter asks why Bush is having Specter and John Sununu (Governor of New Hampshire) travel the country to talk about Dukakis's record on certain issues. Kaufman says that this is an effective strategy; that there were twelve media cameras at Specter's press conference today. Kaufman says that Dukakis sent out a contingent of defenders.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 1988
Description: Christopher Lydon and Gail Harris are hosts of a Ten O'Clock News broadcast. Lydon reads news headlines about the Middle East. Brian Barron reports that the US government may have underreported US casualties during the US invasion of Grenada. Harris reports on a visit to Japan by Ronald Reagan (US President) and Nancy Reagan (US First Lady). Harris reports that Michael Dukakis (Governor of Massachusetts) visited Washington D.C. to lobby for acid rain legislation to protect Quabbin Reservoir and for federal funding for the Central Artery/Tunnel Project. Kate McGrath reports on the approval by the Massachusetts House of Representatives of Dukakis' controversial capital outlay bill. McGrath notes that the bill passed despite Republican opposition. McGrath's report includes footage from interviews with William Robinson (House Minority Leader), Charles Flaherty (Massachusetts House of Representatives) and Frank Keefe (State Secretary for Administration and Finance). Harris reports that Dr. Edward Teller (scientist) and Hans Bethe (Nobel Prize winning scientist) debated the Reagan administration's Strategic Defense Initiative proposal at the John F. Kennedy School of Government. Lydon reads headlines about elections nationwide. Lydon interviews in-studio guest David Wiegand (Editor, Cambridge Chronicle) about the referendum in Cambridge to ban all nuclear weapons research in the city. Wiegand describes the debate surrounding the referendum and predicts that it will not pass. Lydon presents one of the reports in a series on mayoral candidates Mel King and Ray Flynn. This report explores Mel King's background and early days as a social worker in a settlement house in the South End. The report includes footage from interviews with John O'Bryant (Boston School Committee), Paul Parks (architect), Joyce King (wife of Mel King), Ed McClure (US Justice Department), Herbert Gleason (former Chairman, United South End Settlements) and Chuck Turner (teacher). Lydon also interviews Robert Shagoury (computer manufacturer), Edward Domit (social worker) and Thomas Shea (retailer), all of whom comment on King's social work
1:00:12: The logos of The Ten O'Clock News underwriters New England Telephone and Shawmut Brokerage Services are displayed. Gail Harris opens the news by summarizing an upcoming story on Mel King (candidate for mayor of Boston). Visual: Shot of King walking through a housing project. Opening credits for The Ten O'Clock News. Christopher Lydon says that David Wiegand (editor, Cambridge Chronicle) is in the studio for an interview. Gail Harris reviews another upcoming story. 1:01:17: Lydon reads the headlines. Lydon reports on the Geneva talks on Lebanon. Lydon reports that there are rumors of a truce in Northern Lebanon; that Yasser Arafat and his troops are trapped in Tripoli. V: Footage of PLO (Palestine Liberation Organization) fighters in Tripoli. Lydon reports that Syria may be talking to other Arab states about a ceasefire in the area; that Egypt has expressed interest in rescuing Arafat. Harris reports on the appointment of an advisory council to serve as the provisional government of Grenada until elections are held. Harris reports on army explanations for problems experienced by Army Rangers when they parachuted into Grenada during the invasion. Harris reports that the BBC (British Broadcasting Corporation) has reported that US casualties during the Grenada invasion were much higher than the US government has indicated. 1:03:25: Brian Barron reports from Granada. Barron reports that the US government has reported that four helicopters were shot down during the invasion. Barron says that his sources indicate that 12 to 20 helicopters were shot down during the invasion. V: Shots of a beach in Grenada; of helicopter parts lying on the beach; of youth playing a game of soccer near a downed helicopter. Barron reports that Cuban soldiers used anti-tank missiles to shoot down US helicopters; that American casualties have not been fully disclosed. V: Shots of a US military briefing in Grenada; of an overturned tank on a deserted road. Barron notes that the US government reported 18 dead. Barron reports that military sources indicate that 42 soldiers died; that the final figure will reflect more than 70 dead soldiers. Barron reports that US casualties may exceed Cuban casualties. Barron reports that the US government had indicated 29 soldiers missing in action; that the US government now reports no soldiers missing in action; that the US government will not disclose civilian casualties. V: Shot of a hand-lettered sign in a field; of American soldiers on a transport truck. Shots of Grenadan civilians walking among destroyed buildings and rubble. Barron reports at least 100 dead civilians. Barron reports that seven Americans were killed in an earlier mission to rescue the Grenadan governor general. V: Footage of the Grenadan governor general; of US helicopters over Grenada. Barron reports that the American invasion surprised the British government; that American soldiers are still taking prisoners; that American intelligence officers are interrogating the leaders of the coup. V: Footage of American soldiers taking prisoners. 1:05:09: Harris reports on the visit of Ronald Reagan (US President) to Japan. V: Shots of Ronald Reagan and Nancy Reagan (US First Lady) at a ceremony with Japanese officials. Harris reports that Reagan is seeking to settle a trade dispute between the two nations; that Yasuhiro Nakasone (Prime Minister of Japan) is hoping to use Reagan's visit to bolster Nakasone's sagging popularity in Japan. V: Shots of Reagan and Nakasone in meetings. Harris reports that Reagan is scheduled to address the Japanese Parliament on Friday. 1:06:09: Winning lottery numbers for Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island. 1:06:35: Harris reports that Michael Dukakis (Governor of Massachusetts ) visited Washington D.C. today; that Dukakis and Edward Kennedy (US Senator) met with Congressional leaders lobby for acid rain legislation and highway money for Massachusetts. Harris reports that the highway funds will go toward a third harbor tunnel and the depression of the Central Artery. Harris reports that Massachusetts leaders are pressing for acid rain legislation to counter the increasing acid levels in the Quabbin Reservoir; that an increased acid level in drinking water poses a health threat by eating away at lead lined water pipes. Harris reports that the Massachusetts House of Representatives approved $640 million dollars for Dukakis' five-year building plan. Harris introduces a report by Kate McGrath. 1:07:30: McGrath reports that Republicans in the Massachusetts House of Representatives say that budget for Dukakis' five-year building plan is too large. V: Footage of McGrath interviewing William Robinson (House Minority Leader) about the budget. Robinson says that the state's line of credit is overextended; that this bond issue will be among the highest in Massachusetts' history if approved. McGrath reports that Charles Flaherty (Massachusetts House of Representatives) agrees that the debt incurred by the building plan will be overwhelming. V: Footage of Flaherty saying that the bonding authorization is premature; that the administration had not taken the proper steps to prepare for major construction projects. Footage of the members of the Massachusetts House of Representatives in the House chambers. McGrath reports that amendments cutting out sections of the capital outlay bill were defeated by Democratic representatives; that many Democratic representatives were promised projects in their districts. V: Footage of Flaherty saying that he will not go so far as to call it "pork barrel politics." Flaherty talks about the Democratic leaders "scurrying" to secure votes. McGrath reports that Dukakis' capital outlay bill includes improvements to the Franklin Park Zoo, flood control projects and new parking lots. V: Shots of the Franklin Park Zoo; of wetlands; of parked cars. Footage of Robinson complaining that there is $20 million in the bill to improve the offices of members of the Ways and Means Committee; that those improvements are not necessary. McGrath reports that the money for office improvements for the Ways and Means Committee was eventually cut out of the bill. V: Footage of Frank Keefe (State Secretary for Administration and Finance) saying that the bill authorizes money for needed repairs; that there has been no capital outlay in the state budget for three years. McGrath reports from outside of the House chambers. McGrath reports that Keefe says that the governor will cut unnecessary "pet" projects out of the final budget. McGrath says that Dukakis will cut the projects of legislators whom he can afford to offend. 1:10:21: Harris reports on a debate at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University between Dr. Edward Teller (scientist) and Hans Bethe (Nobel Prize winning scientist). Harris reports that the two scientists debated the viability of Reagan's "Star Wars" defense project; that the two scientists were colleagues on the Manhattan Project. V: Footage of the debate between Teller and Bethe. Teller argues that "Star Wars" is a viable defense plan. Bethe counters that arms control is the only solution to US defense problems. 1:11:59: Lydon gives the weather report. WGBH promotions for The Ten O'Clock News and The Making of a Continent. 1:13:28: Lydon reports on elections across the nation. He notes that Kentucky elected Martha Lane Collins as governor; that Wilson Goode was elected as the first African American mayor of Philadelphia; that an African American mayor was elected in Charlotte, North Carolina. Lydon reports that Dan Evans won the Washington state Senate seat of the deceased Henry "Scoop" Jackson; that voters in Maine rejected a ban on moose hunting. Lydon reports that voters in Gloucester, Brockton, and Salem (Massachusetts) rejected the fluoridation of the public water supply. 1:13:58: Lydon reports on the referendum in Cambridge, Massachusetts to ban all nuclear weapons research in that city. Lydon reports that the law would have shut down Draper Labs in Cambridge; that the law might have ended research on arms control as well as arms development. Lydon reports that paper ballots and the proportional representation system make the counting of votes a slow process; that the referendum appears to have been rejected by voters. Lydon introduces David Wiegand (editor, Cambridge Chronicle) as the in-studio guest. Lydon reports that Wiegand came out in favor of putting the referendum on the ballot; that Wiegand later did not support the referendum. Wiegand says that many voters supported the referendum as a symbolic gesture; that many did not think the ban could be enforced. Wiegand says that the debate centered on whether a local government should be able to exert control over the research and business conducted within its borders. Wiegand says that the nuclear freeze movement was divided over whether to support the referendum; that many found the referendum to be "Orwellian." Wiegand says that many critics think that effort should be directed at federal policy; that the referendum would eventually be found unconsitutional. Wiegand says that many thought the referendum would pass easily in Cambridge; that the opposition campaigned heavily against the referendum. Wiegand says that the debate over the referendum helped to raise doubt among potential supporters. Lydon comments that a strange alliance of corporate interests, academic interests and arms control supporters formed to oppose the referendum. Wiegand says that many in the opposition were against a government ban on research of any kind. Wiegand says that the result of the vote is not sure; that the referendum probably will not pass. 1:18:22: Stock report: the Dow Jones average is listed at 1,232.52; the volume of the New York Exchange is listed at 83,100,000 shares. WGBH promotion for Wall Street Week. 1:19:27: Lydon introduces a report on Mel King (candidate for mayor of Boston) and his early career as a social worker. V: Footage of King, John O'Bryant (Boston School Committee), Paul Parks (architect), and Joyce King (wife of Mel King) talking about the diversity of the South End neighborhood where they grew up. Lydon reports from Seneca Street, where King grew up. A train passes by on the elevated tracks behind Lydon. Lydon reports that the "New York streets" neighborhood where King grew up was razed in the 1950s; that King learned to appreciate diversity and to share with the less fortunate while growing up in the South End neighborhood. V: Footage of King saying that he learned from his family the importance of sharing with the less fortunate. King says that it is important to feel good about oneself in order to feel good about others; that he likes to teach people to solve problems for themselves. Lydon reports that King's first job out of college was at a Settlement House in the South End; that King was helping teenagers as a street corner social worker in the 1950s. V: Footage of Ed McClure (US Justice Department) and Lydon walking in the South End. McClure talks about being King's partner in social work in the 1950s. McClure says that King was on a mission to reach out to those who needed help; that King's humility allowed him to make the initial contact with people. Lydon reports from a basketball gym at the Blackstone School in the South End. Men are playing a basketball game behind him. Lydon says that King is a regular at weekly games at the gym; that King has known many of the players since childhood. V: Footage of the basketball game. Footage of Robert Shagoury (computer manufacturer) talking about his early memories of King trying to put together a Little League baseball team in his neighborhood. Footage of Edward Domit (social worker) saying that King had great confidence in people; that King was trying to reach out to the young kids who needed help. Footage of Thomas Shea (retailer) talking about the support and guidance given to him by King when Shea was younger. Footage of King saying that he tries to empower people to solve their own problems. Footage of Shea saying that he went to visit King after graduating from college; that King was genuinely happy for him. Footage of McClure saying that King is dedicated to helping people. Lydon reports from 48 Rutland Street, the site of the Settlement House where King lived and worked. Lydon describes the conflict between King and the board of the United South End Settlements (USES). Lydon says that USES accused King of neglecting paperwork; that King accused the USES of forcing him to choose between his community and their bureaucracy. V: Footage of Herbert Gleason (former Chairman of USES) saying that King is passionate and compassionate. Gleason talks about the importance of efficient administration of social programs. Footage of Shagoury saying that King was an effective administrator of social programs. Footage of McClure saying that the goal of social work is to help people to adjust to their conditions; that another goal is to help people change their conditions. Footage of Chuck Turner (teacher) saying that King's vision is to help people to live positive lives. 1:29:10: Sports scores: the Celtics beat San Diego, 129 - 122; the Bruins are tied with Buffalo in the third period. 1:29:22: Harris reports that research findings that the noise of a crying infant can measure 100 to 117 decibels; that exposure to that level of noise can be harmful to the ears. Harris reports that infants can be made to go to sleep more quickly by adding a small amount of sugar to their evening feeding. 1:30:11: Lydon reports that the news show NBC Overnight has been canceled. Lydon and Harris close the show. Closing credits roll. The logos of The Ten O'Clock News underwriters New England Telephone, and Shawmut Brokerage Services are displayed.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 11/09/1983
Description: Christopher Lydon and Gail Harris host a Ten O'Clock News broadcast. Christy George reports on a campaign debate between Republican US Senate candidates Elliot Richardson and Ray Shamie. The report includes footage of their debate at Faneuil Hall. Charles Bennett reports on the race between Democratic US Senate candidates Jim Shannon and John Kerry. Bennett reports that Shannon held a press conference to announce the endorsement of his candidacy by several leaders of Vietnam Veterans' groups. The report includes footage from the press conference featuring Shannon and Vietnam veterans Charles Harris and Sam Mullen. Bennett reviews Kerry's history as a Vietnam veteran and talks about Kerry's relations with veterans' groups. Bennett's report also includes footage from a campaign advertisement for Kerry. Lydon and Harris read headlines about Greg Bemis (arsonist) and a hepatitis outbreak in Worcester. Lydon reports on addresses to the B'Nai Brith convention by Ronald Reagan (US president) and Walter Mondale (Democratic candidate for US president). The report includes footage of both candidates addressing the convention. Harris reports on a power-sharing agreement between Israeli leaders Shimon Peres and Yitzhak Shamir. Harris's report features footage of Peres and Shamir at a press conference. Loretta Roach talks about school desegregation ten years later Christopher Lydon interviews in-studio guests Kim Marshall (Director for Curriculum, Boston Public Schools) and Loretta Roach (parent activist) about the state of Boston Public Schools ten years after the beginning of school desegregation. Marshall talks about the educational agenda for the schools; he says that the schools are beginning to improve. Roach says that she is more concerned about quality education than she is about integrated schools. Roach and Marshall say that the schools must concentrate on serving the present student population, which is poor and minority. Harris reads a news brief about school bus safety standards in the aftermath of a school bus accident in Rehoboth, Mass. Donna Hodge reports on Congressional efforts to protect the striped bass population in the Northeast. Hodge notes that there are disagreements between those who support a moratorium on striped bass fishing and those who are opposed to any quotas on striped bass fishing. Hodge's report includes footage from interviews with Kenny Baker (fisherman), Philip Coates (Director, Massachusetts Marine Fisheries) and Owen DeLong (Emergency Striped Bass Council).
1:00:02: Christopher Lydon and Gail Harris introduce the newscast. The logos of The Ten O'Clock News underwriters Shawmut Bank, New England Telephone, and The Nimrod Press are displayed. 1:00:54: Christopher Lydon reports on the debate at Faneuil Hall between Republican candidates for the Senate seat of Paul Tsongas (US Senator). Christy George reports on the debate. George says that the candidates disagreed on most of the issues. Visual: Footage of Elliot Richardson (candidate for US Senate) and Ray Shamie (candidate for US Senate) debating tax increases and the ERA (Equal Rights Amendment). 1:04:15: Harris reports that Jim Shannon (candidate for US Senate) won the personal endorsement of a number of the leaders of Massachusetts' Vietnam Veterans groups; that opponent John Kerry (candidate for US Senate) is a Vietnam veteran. Charles Bennett reports that Shannon choreographed a "large-scale stunt;" that the media was invited to a press conference where the endorsement was announced. V: Footage from Vietnam- A Television History, of Kerry in Vietnam; of Vietnam protesters in Washington D.C.; of Kerry testifying about Vietnam before the US Congress; of a sign reading "Vietnam Vets against the war." Bennett reviews Kerry's history as a Vietnam veteran and as an activist protesting against the war. V: Footage of Charles Harris (Vietnam veteran) endorsing Shannon at the press conference with other leaders from Vietnam Veterans of Massachusetts Incorporated. Harris wears a pin reading "Vietnam Vets for Shannon." Harris talks about Shannon's sponsorship of a bill declaring a national POW-MIA recognition day. Footage of Shannon talking about the need to provide compensation to the victims of Agent Orange; about the need to improve treatment for veterans who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder. Bennett reports that Shannon made no mention of Kerry; that Sam Mullen (Vietnam veteran) seemed to represent the sentiment of some anti-Kerry veterans. V: Footage of Mullen saying that Kerry had an outstanding record of service; that he finds Kerry's political commercials offensive; that Kerry's performance was not "above and beyond the call" of duty. Footage of Kerry saying that he has a lot of support from veterans; that different veterans have different beliefs. Bennett reports that the veterans' endorsement of Shannon was intended as a rejection of Kerry. V: Footage of Shannon saying that he did not serve in the military. Bennett stands in front of the South Boston Vietnam Memorial. Bennett reports that some veterans may not support Kerry because he was a fierce opponent of the Vietnam War, as well as a war hero. V: Footage of a Kerry political advertisement focusing on the Vietnam War. Bennett reports that some veterans think that Kerry is denouncing the soldiers as well as the war in this political advertisement. V: Footage of Kerry saying that the soldiers were the victims of the Vietnam War; that he has fought to gain recognition for the contribution of the Vietnam veterans. Bennett reports that many veterans are conflicted by Kerry's dual roles as a war hero and an upper-middle class, well-educated war protester. V: Shot of the South Boston Vietnam Memorial. 1:08:39: Lydon and Harris read the news headlines. Harris reports that Kerry won the endorsement of the Black Political Task Force in Roxbury. Lydon reports that Greg Bemis (arsonist) pleaded guilty to 68 counts of arson; that Bemis admitted to setting more than 100 fires in the Boston area as a member of an arson ring in 1982 and 1983; that the arson ring included former Boston area police officers and fire fighters who were protesting the cutbacks resulting from Proposition 2 1/2. Harris reports that the outbreak of hepatitis in Worcester is being complicated by a rare Delta Virus; that this form of hepatitis is very serious; that city officials are trying to institute a program to vaccinate drug abusers who use needles. 1:10:08: Harris gives the weather report. WGBH promotions for the The Ten O'Clock News and Live From Lincoln Center. 1:11:34: Lydon reads the national news headlines. Lydon reports that Walter Mondale (candidate for US President) accused Ronald Reagan (US President) of "moral McCarthyism" and religious zealotry; that Mondale asked for respect of his religion, family values, and patriotism. V: Footage of Mondale and Reagan addressing the B'nai Brith convention in Washington DC. Lydon reports that Reagan talked about the importance of the separation of church and state. Lydon reports that Gerald Ford (former US President) said that Mondale never complained when Jimmy Carter (former US President) mixed religion and politics. Lydon reports on a humorous exchange between Geraldine Ferraro (Mondale's running mate) and a high school student in Independence, Missouri. 1:12:51: Harris reads the international headlines. Harris reports that Shimon Peres (leader, Israeli Labour Party) and Yitzhak Shamir (leader, Israeli Likud Party) have agreed on the details of a power-sharing agreement. V: Footage of Peres and Shamir at a press conference. Harris reports that the Labour Party will handle defense issues and the Likud Party will handle economic issues; that the parties are optimistic that the agreement will work. Harris reports that the US vetoed a resolution by the United Nations Security Council; that the resolution would have demanded that Israel lift restrictions on the movement of people in Southern Lebanon. Harris reports that the US representative rejected the resolution because it did not address the activities of Syrian and Palestinian forces in other parts of Lebanon. 1:14:13: Report on the winning lottery numbers in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island. 1:14:34: Christopher Lydon reports on the opening of Boston Public Schools. Lydon notes that it has been ten years since the beginning of busing and school desegregation. Lydon introduces in-studio guests Kim Marshall (Director for Curriculum, Boston Public Schools) and Loretta Roach (parent activist). Lydon notes that Marshall called the 1974 court order a "disaster" because it did not integrate the city with the suburbs. Marshall says that he thought few educational advancements could be made without integrating students of diverse social classes as well as students of different races. Marshall says that integration with the suburbs will never happen; that he is more realistic now. Marshall says that he is now concentrating on addressing the important issues on the educational agenda of the Boston Public Schools. Marshall talks about the need for good school principals, for high expectations for all students, for clear curriculum objectives, for test data about student performance, and for a safe climate in the schools. Marshall says that he was not focused enough on the realities of urban classrooms and schools in 1974. Lydon asks Roach what she has learned as a parent since the beginning of school desegregation in 1974. Roach says that the school system has improved; that there are some administrators in place who are concerned with accountability in education and high expectations for students. Roach says that the schools still have a poor record in dealing with racism. Roach says that the integration of social classes is not possible in Boston Public Schools; that the majority of students are African American, Hispanic, and poor. Lydon asks Roach if the court order has tried to address the needs of white students who have left the school system. Roach and Lydon agree that no one knows the whereabouts of the white students who are assigned to integrated public schools and do not show up. Marshall mentions the Jeremiah Burke School as an example of a school which has shown great improvements since desegregation. Marshall says that school administrators are focused on serving the students who are attending the schools. Lydon quotes Hubie Jones (Dean, Boston University) as saying that the Boston Public Schools are a "disaster." Marshall says that the system has just begun to make improvements; that the system has a very long way to go. Marshall notes that a new policy requires students to have an attendance rate of 85% in order to be promoted to the next grade level. Lydon quotes Robert Spillane (Superintendent, Boston Public Schools) as saying that Robert Dentler (Dean of Education at Boston University and advisor to the federal court) is a "social engineer." Lydon quotes Spillane's predictions that the Boston Public School System will continue to lose white students until it is once again a segregated system. Marshall says that the Boston Public School System has moved beyond school desegregation; that the school system needs to improve in order to attract new students. Roach says that urban schools across the country are in trouble; that African American parents are very concerned with the quality of education in the schools. Roach says that she is more concerned about quality education than she is about integrated schools. Roach says that she has invested a lot of time and effort in the Boston Public Schools; that she feels good about the kind of education her children are receiving. Lydon thanks Marshall and Roach. 1:22:43: Stock report: the Dow Jones average is listed at 1218.86; the volume of the New York Exchange is listed at 91,920,000. 1:23:03: Harris reports reports on school bus safety standards. Harris says that a school bus crash in January in Rehoboth, Massachusetts, could have been much worse without the safety standards adopted in 1977; that the National Transportation Safety Board has determined that Mary Jane Noons (Rehoboth bus driver) could not have avoided the crash; that the board is looking into further safety measures to protect children riding on school buses. 1:23:46: Harris reports that a Congressional committee will force Atlantic states to reduce their catches of striped bass or face a ban on striped bass fishing; that Maryland and Virginia lawmakers oppose quotas on striped bass; that Gary Studds (US Congressman from Massachusetts) and others support the quotas. Donna Hodge reports that Kenny Baker (fisherman) once fished primarily for striped bass. V: Footage of Baker preparing to go out on his boat in Woods Hole, Massachusetts; of Baker piloting his boat out of the harbor. Footage of Baker talking about the challenges involved in fishing for striped bass. Baker says that he feels fortunate to have been able to make a living from fishing for striped bass. Footage of Baker fishing off of his boat. Hodge says that the striped bass population has declined precipitously in Massachusetts. V: Footage of Philip Coates (Director, Massachusetts Marine Fisheries) talking about the decline of the striped bass population due to a combination of overfishing and environmental phenomena. Footage of Baker fishing from his boat. Shots of the coastline and the ocean. Hodge reports that striped bass migrate from the Chesapeake Bay to the North Atlantic every year; that an eleven-state coastal commission has been formed to protect the fish. Hodge reports that regulations on striped bass fishing are very tough in Massachusetts; that some fisherman believe the regulations are excessive. V: Shots of a man fishing off of a boat. Footage of Baker saying that regulations should be equally tough in every state; that a moratorium on fishing for striped bass should be imposed in all of the states along the coast. Shots of a bass being caught on a fisherman's line. Hodge reports that fishermen on Martha's Vineyard are preparing for the annual Striped Bass Derby. V: Footage of Owen DeLong (Emergency Striped Bass Council) saying that an immediate moratorium on striped bass fishing should be imposed along the whole east coast; that the Striped Bass Derby is inappropriate and morally wrong at this time. Footage of workers at a fish processing plant. Hodge reports on the need for uniform regulations among all states involved in striped bass fishing. Hodge reports that Claudine Schneider (US Congresswoman from Rhode Island) has proposed a three-year moratorium on striped bass fishing. V: Footage of DeLong saying that Studds, Edward Kennedy (US Senator) and John Chafee (US Senator) have all filed bills to regulate striped bass fishing; that strict regulations must be imposed in the next few months in order to save the species. Shots of an aquarium exhibit of striped bass. Harris reports that Studds has defended his plan as a compromise between those pushing for a moratorium on fishing and those who want no regulation at all. Harris notes that the organizers of the Striped Bass Derby on Martha's Vineyard have said that the competition will proceed as planned. 1:29:05: Harris and Lydon close the newscast. End credits roll.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 09/06/1984