Published April 29, 2011

For-profit poker rooms are raking in cash across the state, according to the Globe. Though casino gambling is illegal in Massachusetts, the clubs operate openly thanks to a provision that allows charities to hold Vegas Night fundraisers. A portion of the poker rooms’ profits go to the nonprofits that sponsor the event.

The Massachusetts House approved its $30.5 billion budget plan last night, including the controversial provision allowing cities and towns to bypass union approval for changes to municipal health plans. The budget heads to the state Senate and a combined bill must be approved by July 1.

Bullying victims came together to share their stories and assess the state’s year-old anti-bullying law at a State House conference yesterday.

An Air Force pilot from Auburn was killed in Afghanistan Wednesday when an Afghan soldier turned on allied troops. David L. Brodeur, 34, was a standout athlete and student at Auburn High School.

The Patriots drafted Nate Solder, an offensive tackle from Colorado. It’s a safe pick, not a sexy one, as the Herald writes. The team traded the No. 28 pick to the Saints for a second-round selection this year and a first-round selection next year.

What we’re following: We’ll continue to report on changes at the Haverhill Fire Department, the arrest of 32 individuals on weapons charges in Brockton and a Federal Elections Commission complaint against Mitt Romney. Also, there was a wedding, or something, this morning.