Patrick proposes $28.2 billion budgetGovernor Patrick unveiled a $28.2 billion budget proposal for the next fiscal year, a 3 percent increase over estimated spending for the current fiscal year. Patrick has recommended $800 million in cuts, but resisted making cuts to education and healthcare. The State’s House and Senate will produce their own budgets and will agree on a compromise version before the final bill reaches the governor’s desk. –The Boston Globe

Crime down across MBTACrime on the MBTA is at an all time low, even with record number of people riding the system’s sprawling network of buses and trains. According to the MBTA, “there were no homicides last year and the number of aggravated assaults, larcenies, and robberies also fell.” The MBTA is also battling fare evasion, with an average of 1 out of 10 fare jumpers under a pending criminal arrest warrant. –The Boston Globe

France backs ban on burqasThe French parliament backed the ban of the full Islamic veil from public places such as schools, hospitals, government offices, and transportation systems. The 200 page report goes on the claim that “…wearing the full veil is a challenge to our Republic.” Though the wearing of the burqa is a controversial issue, only 1,900 women are believed to wear the all-covering veil in France. Despite this fact, critics claim that any ban will stigmatize and further antagonize France’s large Muslim community. –News Junkie Post

Apple announces the iPadApple Inc. unveiled their latest creation: a tablet computer, which they’re calling the iPad. Features include internet browsing, email, photos, video, music, eBooks, maps, and other applications. With a multi-touch screen as well as wireless and 3G capable connections, the iPad is essentially an oversized iPod Touch. Prices start at $499 and the device will be available in several months. The question remains: Will iWomen send their iHusbands to the Apple store to buy iPads? –Engadget

Toyota recalls millions of vehiclesIf you drive a recent model Toyota, your car may be in need of a recall. Toyota announced that an issue in the gas pedal could jam and lead to uncontrollable acceleration. Toyota’s slogan, “moving forward” has yet to include “…even when you let off the gas pedal.” –CNN