By tradition, we spend the last week of December sorting out what happened in the year now ending. With 2011, a week won’t be enough. Nor can a year this full be summed up in a single column, but let me give it a shot.

My faith in the American judicial system was restored with the conviction of Tarek Mehanna on multiple counts of conspiracy.

Supporters of Tarek Mehanna, the Sudbury resident found guilty last month of supporting terrorism, are gathering at the gazebo on Boston Common on Saturday at 2 p.m. to protest the verdict.

By tradition, we spend the last week of December sorting out what happened in the year now ending. With 2011, a week won’t be enough. Nor can a year this full be summed up in a single column, but let me give it a shot.