What's New

AGRICULTURE

Clarifying Organic

WASHINGTON - farmers upset by the overly broad label of "organic" foods may find relief later this year with an expected federal ruling that will limit the kinds of foods receiving that definition, the Department of Agriculture told farmers last week. The government is planning to issue rules prohibiting the label "organic" for any food that is irradiated, genetically engineered, or treated with antibiotics. The new labeling plan responds to an outcry from farmers last year against an earlier set of rules the farmers considered too permissive.

SCIENCE

Shrinkwrap chemistry

HENNIKER, N.H. - When it comes to changing the way chemistry is taught, three New England scientists are thinking small. Two students at New England College in Henniker, N.H., along with a professor at Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine, have developed what they call microscale chemistry. The idea is to shrink the size of the beakers and flasks so experiments can be done with the smallest amount of a chemical necessary. They say their idea saves money and makes labs safer for students and the environment.

JUSTICE

Face to face reparations

MONTPELIER, VT. - A new Vermont program will require convicted drunken drivers to talk with people whose lives have been changed by drunken driving. The program, announced Wednesday, is part of the state's reparative justice system, which gives offenders the chance to meet members of their community and work together to find a punishment to fit the crime. Offenders will meet with a three-member victim impact panel comprising volunteers.