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New England Weekend

New England Weekend

473 episodes — Page 3 of 10

More Than a Grocery Store: Daily Table’s Mission Cut Short

A few months back, Sasha Purpura from Daily Table in Boston joined the show to talk about the non-profit grocery store's mission: team up with local suppliers and farmers to ensure everyone has access to low-cost, healthy food. Some surprising news has developed: the board of Daily Table announced recently it was closing down all operations within a matter of days, a move that shocked advocates, community leaders, and residents. Sasha returns to the show to talk about what happened and share resources for those who are food insecure in Massachusetts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

May 17, 20259 min

Pedaling for a Cure: A Cape Cod Getaway Adventure to Fight MS

This warmer weather is the perfect time to dust off the bike and hit the road for a good cause. Bike MS is holding its annual "Cape Cod Getaway" next month to raise money for the National MS Society, which works each and every day to find a cure for multiple sclerosis. The Getaway is a two-day affair, and you won't even have to rent a vacation house! Jennifer Dowdy, the Development Director of Bike MS, and Liam Kennedy, captain of Liam's Lucky Charms, join Nichole to talk about it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

May 10, 202519 min

Real ID Ready: What You Need to Know Before Your Next Flight

Did you get your REAL ID yet? Earlier this week, the law requiring you to have one to fly domestically or enter certain federal buildings kicked in, and it's caused a bit of confusion for some who haven't been able to get one. Lines have been long at the RMV and appointments are tough to find. What happens if you need to travel and you don't have your updated ID? Dan Velez, spokesman for TSA New England, answers your questions about the ID's and the new regulations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

May 10, 20258 min

Medical Devices Under Siege: Why Cybersecurity in Healthcare Matters

As health care advances, our medical devices have to evolve to keep up, which means they have to be connected to networks and the wider internet in ways they never were before. Unfortunately, that also means they're prime targets for hackers who want to steal your information and cause chaos. The recent "Device Talks Boston" conference focused, in part, on how the industry needs to catch up and put stronger security in place for our medical devices. Trevor Slattery, Chief Technology Officer at Blue Goat Cyber in Scottsdale, Arizona attended the conference, and stepped away to talk with Nichole about solutions for this problem.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

May 10, 20259 min

Transformative Tech: Introducing Virtual Reality at Marshfield's "Road to Responsibility"

Since the late 1980's, the team at Marshfield's "Road to Responsibility" has had one mission: assist those with intellectual and physical disabilities with living their lives to the fullest. They do so by providing essential services in day programs and community living, along with promoting inclusivity and understanding in the community at large. One of their new tools is a virtual reality program that's already become a major success. President and CEO Christopher White joins clinician Rebecca Ellis to talk about how they're introducing this technology into their programming.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apr 26, 202514 min

Boston Magazine Reveals the Hub's Most Influential Power Players

Boston is the home to many of the region, nation, and world's most powerful people. That being said, not everyone can be truly influential. Boston Magazine has just released its latest list of the city's most influential people, and it includes all kinds of people: athletes, lawmakers, developers, even infants! Brittany Jasnoff, Executive Editor at Boston Magazine, dives deeper into the list with Nichole to talk about their process, what influence truly means, and some of their top picks.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apr 26, 20257 min

"May Pops" Celebrates Another Season at the Melrose Symphony Orchestra

More than a century has passed since the Melrose Symphony Orchestra started performing together, making the group the nation's oldest continuing all-volunteer orchestra. Another season is coming to an end, and the final concert is a packed potpourri of favorites, including a special guest. Conductor Yoichi Udagawa returns to the show with all the details about the upcoming show, and talks with Nichole about the season.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apr 26, 202512 min

Feeding Massachusetts, One Step at a Time: Project Bread's "Walk for Hunger"

The rising cost of housing and essentials is making it more difficult for families and individuals to put nourishing food on the table. Since 1969, Project Bread in Boston has hosted the "Walk for Hunger", a community movement to bring awareness to this problem and raise much-needed money for hunger relief. Project Bread President Erin McAleer returns to the show to share the details with Nichole and give an update on their work to fight hunger in Massachusetts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apr 19, 202510 min

Boston Parks and Recreation Helps Seniors Stay "Forever Young"

There are many ways to promote healthy aging, including getting enough sleep, eating well, and taking your medicine properly. Also important: staying active and connected with your community! For many seniors, loneliness and isolation can take a big toll on mental and physical health. Now that the weather is warmer, Boston Parks and Rec is rolling out its "ABC Forever Young" program, offering local seniors the opportunity to come together and play some fun games! Damien Margardo, Program Manager at Boston Parks and Rec, talks with Nichole about what they have to offer.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apr 19, 20258 min

From Resume to Reality: Meet Boston's Hospitality Career Fair

Trying to find a job these days can be overwhelming, draining, and downright frustrating. Here in the Boston area, there's a message from those in the hospitality industry: we're hiring, and we need you now! Meet Boston is putting on a new regional job fair, hoping to connect those who need work with opportunities in hotels, tourism, and restaurants, all huge contributors to the city's economy. Martha Sheridan, President and CEO of Meet Boston, and Conan Harris, Founder and CEO of Conan Harris and Associates, talk with Nichole about the resources and opportunities the fair has available for those who need a job.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apr 19, 202514 min

Revolutionary Roots: Concord Museum's Immersive Look at the Local Fight for Freedom

It was almost 250 years ago to the day when residents of Concord ended up playing a critical role in the American Revolution, as it was there, and in neighboring Lexington, where the first shots of the war were fired. The town has embraced that pivotal history throughout the centuries, including at the Concord Museum, where dozens of historical objects connected to the events of that Wednesday in 1775 are now on display. Museum Director Lisa Krassner joins Nichole on this week's show to talk about their plans for the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution on April 19th and what they have to offer in this new exhibit.This segment is the fifth interview in our series "Revolutionary Roots", where we take a closer look at the stories, people, events, and local ties that connect New England to the nation's upcoming 250th anniversary in 2026.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apr 12, 202513 min

Worcester Welcomes Bards and Baseball Lovers for the National Baseball Poetry Festival

No matter why you love baseball - ballparks, the players, the skill, the atmosphere - it's also perfect fodder for poets around the world to talk about their love of the game. Worcester is home to the National Baseball Poetry Festival, celebrating the intersection of America's pastime and the timeless art of poetry. This year's event at Polar Park and other venues includes all kinds of exciting activities, and everyone is invited. Founder Steven Biondolillo talks with Nichole about everything the Festival has to offer on this week's show.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apr 12, 202517 min

Revolutionary Roots: Massachusetts Historical Society Safeguards History's Stories

Since the days following the Revolutionary War, the Massachusetts Historical Society has been dutifully documenting events and stories that have made up the American experience, especially here in New England. That includes a one-of-a-kind look into how the war for independence played out back in the 1700's. Chief Historian Peter Drummey joins Nichole with new information about their exhibit "1775 - Rebels, Rights, and Revolution", and a deeper look into what it takes to preserve history.This segment is the fourth interview in our new series, "Revolutionary Roots", where we take a closer look at the stories, people, events, and local ties that connect New England to the nation's upcoming 250th anniversary in 2026.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apr 5, 202526 min

“Hot Stove Cool Music”: 25 Years of Rocking Out To Benefit Boston

Baseball and music lovers come together each year for the "Hot Stove Cool Music" benefit concert, which raises money for underserved youth through the Foundation To Be Named Later. It's a brainchild of baseball writers Jeff Horrigan and Peter Gammons, with a nod to the sport they love. This year, the event is celebrating its 25th anniversary with some epic guests. Former Red Sox pitcher Lenny DiNardo, now a sports analyst at NESN, is co-hosting this year's event. He joins Nichole this week to share all the cool details about this hot event.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apr 5, 20258 min

The "Campaign of Peace" at Dorchester's Louis D. Brown Peace Institute

Dorchester's Louis D. Brown Peace Institute was founded more than 30 years ago out of a mother's grief and pain. Chaplain Clementina Chery created the Institute to honor her late son, Louis, who was gunned down in the streets of Dorchester at just 15 years old in 1993. Now, the institute is known for the Mother's Day Walk for Peace and other work to not just prevent gun violence, but also help the families impacted by it. Chaplain Chery says she and the Institute want to take their work to a new level with a new Center for Healing, Teaching, and Learning. She shares the details with Nichole and explains how the community can help make the Center a reality.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 29, 202527 min

April School Vacation Fun at Boston's "All-Girls Sports and Wellness Festival"

April school vacation in Massachusetts is just a few weeks away. If you're doing a staycation this time around, or if you don't have any plans just yet, you might be thinking about what you want to do with the kids. The City of Boston says it's got a special event planned for girls age 7-12: the All-Girls Sports and Wellness Festival! Jennifer Misiaszek from Boston Parks and Recreation joins Nichole this week to talk about everything the event has to offer in hopes of empowering Boston's girls.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 29, 20255 min

Revolutionary Roots: Paul Revere's Ride, 250 Years Later

The legendary poem about Paul Revere from Henry Wadsworth Longfellow poignantly lays out the dramatic events that unfolded between Boston and Concord on April 18, 1775, setting the stage for the opening battles of the Revolutionary War. Revere wasn't the only man who made the crucial ride to warn the minutemen, but thanks to that poem, Revere's efforts became stuff of legend. Nina Zannieri, Executive Director of the Paul Revere House in Boston, joins Nichole to talk about the work to preserve Revere's legacy and the celebrations they have planned for the 250th anniversary of Revere's ride.This segment is the third interview in our new series, "Revolutionary Roots", where we take a closer look at the stories, people, events, and local ties that connect New England to the nation's upcoming 250th anniversary in 2026. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 22, 202512 min

Swipe, Save, Repeat: A Local Influencer's Guide to Snagging the Best Bargains

Finding a bargain these days is far more streamlined than it used to be - no more clipping coupons around the kitchen table! Couponing apps are all the rage with influencers on social media who are helping their followers save a buck or two as we deal with high prices on just about everything. Julia Belkin, the Boston woman behind Freebies and More on Instagram and TikTok, joins Nichole to share some tips and tricks.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 22, 202513 min

Massachusetts Farmers Brace for Economic Uncertainty

Tariffs have been imposed on Canada, Mexico, and China, impacting farm and dairy products like wheat, corn, cotton, chicken, fruits, vegetables, and beef. Farmers and ranchers have been voicing their concerns about this, saying if the tariffs stick, it could hike prices for farmers and consumers alike, and strain an industry that's already, in some cases, struggling to get by. Warren Shaw, the President of the Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation and the owner/operator of Shaw Farm in Dracut, talks with Nichole about the potential local impact of these tariffs on farmers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 22, 20258 min

Revolutionary Roots: Preserving and Sharing Colonial History with the Concord Minute Men

While the nation's big birthday party is coming up next year, in just a matter of weeks, Massachusetts will mark 250 years since the "shot heard 'round the world" - the battles of Lexington and Concord, which sparked the war against the British for American independence. The colonists were ready for the British that day thanks to careful planning and a group of militia members called the "Minute Men". Even today, the Minute Men's spirit is preserved by the Concord Minute Men, led by Captain Carl Sweeney. He talks with Nichole about what it's like to re-enact American history and their plans for this year's Patriots Day celebrations, and shares a bit of history, too.This segment is the second interview in our new series, "Revolutionary Roots", where we take a closer look at the stories, people, events, and local ties that connect New England to the nation's upcoming 250th anniversary in 2026. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 15, 202532 min

Revolutionary Roots: "Everyone 250" Centers Boston's Diverse History

When we talk about Boston's history, it's easy to focus on the familiar stories of colonialism, the Revolutionary War, and the Founding Fathers. The true stories of the city aren't complete without the contributions of Boston's diverse communities, who have played crucial roles in shaping the cultural, economic, and social fabric of the Hub. Everyone250 is a new coalition of arts and cultural organizations ensuring those diverse stories are told as we look ahead to the nation's 250th birthday. Jeneé Osterheldt, Dr. Imari Paris Jeffries, and Brian Boyles, Co-Chairs of Everyone250, talk with Nichole about their mission and upcoming events.This segment is the first interview in our new series, "Revolutionary Roots", where we take a closer look at the stories, people, events, and local ties that connect New England to the nation's upcoming 250th anniversary in 2026. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 8, 202517 min

Mentoring Merger: "Big Brothers Big Sisters" and "Big Sister Association" Join Forces

Some big changes have been happening behind the scenes at two of Boston's best-known mentoring organizations, and you may not have even noticed. That's exactly how they planned it! Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts and the Big Sister Association of Greater Boston have merged in hopes of helping more kids around the region reach their full potential. Big Sister Association President and CEO Annissa Essaibi-George and Big Brothers Big Sisters President and CEO Mark O'Donnell share details about the merger with Nichole and talk about what this means for mentoring access around Eastern Massachusetts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 8, 202513 min

Boston Man's "100 Days of Murph" Highlights Physical and Mental Health Challenges

Each and every day, Jake Prusha, a member of the US Coast Guard stationed in Boston, takes part in a grueling challenge called the "Murph" workout, which honors a Navy SEAL who was killed in Afghanistan back in 2005. Prusha's doing this for 100 days - not to get fit, but to raise awareness of members of the military and first responders who are grappling with mental health challenges. Jake talks with Nichole about his story, why this challenge means a lot to him, and how you can help him raise money for the Wounded Warrior Project. (Find Jake on Instagram at @jakeprusha.)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 1, 202520 min

All Aboard! The MBTA's Revival of South Coast Commuter Rail Service

Back in 1958, passenger rail service came to an end between Boston and the South Coast of Massachusetts, leaving cities like Taunton, New Bedford, and Fall River without train access to the largest city in New England. Now, decades later, South Coast residents are about to get that access back, as the MBTA is starting up service in late March. MBTA General Manager Phil Eng joins the show to discuss the long-running project, what riders can expect, and what comes next.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 1, 202513 min

Needham's "Hope and Comfort Hygiene Hub" Boosts Confidence in Hygiene-Insecure Youth

In places like Massachusetts where the cost of living is higher than average, many low-income families are having to make a difficult choice each day: pay critical bills and buy food, or pick up hygiene necessities like soap and toothbrushes. Often, the heat and food win out, but that's where Needham's Hope and Comfort Hygiene Hub comes in, making sure families in need are connected to hygiene supplies - even working with local schools to do it. Kerry Carter, the CEO of Hope and Comfort Hygiene Hub, returns to the show to talk about a new grant they received that will help them distribute these items to hundreds of kids in the Chelsea Public Schools.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 22, 202512 min

Experience the Tropics in Boston at the Franklin Park Zoo's "Orchid Adventure"

Even though it's downright frigid outside, the Franklin Park Zoo and Zoo New England are embracing all things tropical at their new "Orchid Adventure" exhibit! Visitors can spend time with some special animals as they admire a lush display of stunning flowers - some real, some "brick". Josh Meyer, the Zoo's Horticulture and Sustainability Curator, joins the show to talk about how he keeps the orchids healthy and everything guests will get to experience when they stop by.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 22, 202512 min

Coding, Coffee, and Career Prep: Roxbury Community College Hosts a "Hack-a-Thon"

By the year 2030, experts say most work opportunities will require applicants to be strong in their digital literacy skills, including knowledge of artificial intelligence systems. As we work with future generations to get them ready for the workforce, schools are coming up with creative ways to teach those skills. Enter "hack-a-thons", where students are presented a complex problem and they have to use those skills to find a solution - and Roxbury Community College's Computer Science Club is about to host one for the very first time! Derek Goodwin, student organizer of the event, and faculty advisor Dr. Mya Bowen join the show to talk about hack-a-thons and what they hope theirs will accomplish.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 22, 202510 min

Amesbury's "Our Neighbors' Table" Nourishes Merrimack Valley Residents

For more than 30 years, Our Neighbors' Table in Amesbury has been working in the Merrimack Valley to help people who are food insecure get access to the nourishment they need with dignity and grace. They've opened up two "free markets" so people can feed their families while still having a choice over what they bring home, but Our Neighbors' Table also offers community meals and home delivery services for those who need them. Lyndsey Haight, Executive Director of Our Neighbors' Table, talks with Nichole about their mission, the local food supply chain, how they foster community, and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 15, 202543 min

Two Moms, One Life-Changing Idea: The Children's Museum of Franklin

Children's museums are a great place for kids and adults to thrive, learn, and play, but you often find them in larger cities - not so much in smaller towns. That's changing in Franklin, as two mothers who have been friends for years are making moves to open up the Children's Museum of Franklin, promising interactive exhibits, imaginative play, and much more. Co-Founders Meg Hagen and Erin Gallagher share all the details with Nichole on this week's show, and also discuss ways the community can contribute to help open the doors within the next few months.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 8, 202512 min

Boston's "Freedom Trail Foundation" Offers Special Tours to Celebrate Black History Month

February is Black History Month, and the Freedom Trail Foundation is offering special tours highlighting the rich and often overlooked history of African-Americans who've made an impact on the city's history. The tours promise a great walk around Boston, some enlightening and enriching conversations, and education from 18th century costumed guides playing the roles of iconic Black Bostonians. This week, a guide from the Foundation playing Phillis Wheatley joins Nichole to talk about the Foundation's work and these special tours.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 8, 20256 min

One SouthCoast Chamber's Spotlight on Women Entrepreneurs and Business Leaders

Coming up next month in Dartmouth, One SouthCoast Chamber of Commerce is getting ready to celebrate local female entrepreneurs and business leaders at their Women's Forum and Expo! Women who attend will be able to network, share ideas, and learn all about the impacts of burnout from an expert. Katie Greene, the Chamber's Vice President of Marketing and Events, returns to the show to talk with Nichole about this inspiring event.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 8, 202517 min

Climate Change and Timeless History: The Future of Sustainable Architecture in Boston

With housing so tight in the Boston area, there's a lot of conversation about new construction - everything from affordability to rats. Another major factor: sustainability. Climate change is impacting New England faster than any other part of country, according to experts, and that means our architecture has to respond in kind. RODE Architects in Boston was founded by Eric Robinson and Kevin Deabler, who say they center sustainable design in all their projects. They join Nichole this week to talk about sustainable design, why climate-focused design is critical in future construction, and how they're working to get this done in one of the nation's most historic cities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 3, 202528 min

Help for Families Facing Eviction in Boston Through City's "Access to Counsel" Program

When families are evicted from their homes, it can cause some serious ripple effects for the kids involved, including disruption of their education. There's a new pilot program in Boston that hopes to work with families to prevent evictions before they're carried out, and keep kids in their classes where they can continue to grow and thrive. Danielle Johnson, Boston's Director of Housing Stability, joins the show this week to share details about the "Access to Counsel" program, and explain the impacts of eviction on families with school-aged children.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 3, 202511 min

Supporters Take the "Penguin Plunge" for Special Olympics of New Hampshire

It's a perfect time of year to get snuggly and stay inside where it's warm - unless you're trying to raise money for the Special Olympics of New Hampshire! This year's Penguin Plunge at Hampton Beach is coming up in just a few days, and people are raising money to help SONH provide sports training and competitions for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Mark Ericson, the Senior Manager of Multimedia for Special Olympics New Hampshire, returns to the show to share details about this year's event and the upcoming Winni Dip in Laconia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 25, 20257 min

Never Forget: Boston's Holocaust Legacy Foundation Enshrines the Memories of Those Lost

The Holocaust is one of the darkest chapters in human history. Understanding the atrocities that were committed during that time is critical to ensure they are never repeated, but as the years go by, it appears the memory of the horrors of the Holocaust is fading to some, especially those in the younger generations. After a life-changing trip to Poland and the Auschwitz concentration camp, Jody Kipnis co-founded the Holocaust Legacy Foundation, and now, the Foundation's work has led to a new Holocaust museum right here in Boston. Jody joins the show to talk about her trip, the Foundation's work, and the plans for the museum that is already under construction in downtown Boston.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 25, 202526 min

Lifelong Recovery Journeys Start at Marlborough's "Addiction Referral Center"

For decades, people with substance abuse disorder, and their families, have come to Marlborough's Addiction Referral Center seeking help. The Center provides access to meetings, detox centers, sober housing, a friendly smile, and much more. Many people who keep the Center have their own stories to tell about recovery. As we enter a new year, there's a new concern for the Center, as they need a permanent address to keep their work going for another 50 years. Tracey Gustafson, President of the ARC Board, and Mitch Bannon, a member of the Board, talk with Nichole about what they have to offer those in need, and their efforts to find a place to call home.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 18, 202513 min

Haircuts and Healing for Black and Latino Men at Boston's "Barbershop Clinic"

It can be easier to take the first steps into therapy if you're doing it in a space where you feel comfortable, safe, and part of a community. For centuries, Black and Latino men have used barbershops as places to connect with their neighbors and friends. Black Brown Boston is taking that community tradition and channeling it into "The Barbershop Clinic", hoping to provide a space for Black and Latino men to open up and do some healing. Vania Arroyo, Founder and CEO of Black Brown Boston, and marriage and family therapist Rob Badgett join Nichole this week to talk about the program and their mission.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 18, 202516 min

Heating Up the Workforce: Medford Wellington Service Company's Pathway to the Trades

Demand for skilled workers in the trades continues to grow, but there simply aren't enough people who are trained to meet the call. A Billerica-based company was among the many feeling the strain of the ongoing worker shortage, so they decided to take matters into their own hands and start their own training program, which has become incredibly popular. CEO Mike Lacrosse and People and Culture Manager Keri Brewin are on the show this week to talk with Nichole about the program and all it has to offer aspiring members of the trades.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 11, 202518 min

Bundle Up with Books for the Boston Public Library's Winter Reading Challenge

Get your bookmarks ready - it's time for the Boston Public Library's Winter Reading Challenge! This year, it's a global affair, with books and authors from all around the world in the spotlight. Anyone who takes on the challenge gets a special prize, too! Veronica Koven-Matasy, the BPL's Reader Services Supervisor, joins Nichole this week with details on the challenge and some recommendations to get started.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 11, 202517 min

"Castle of our Skins" Celebrates Boston's Black Art and Culture in a New Home

We have no shortage of talent here in the Greater Boston area, and for more than a decade, an organization called "Castle of our Skins" has been working to ensure the voices and stories of Black artists, performers, and musicians in our neighborhood are uplifted and appreciated. Recently, they were able to work with the city of Boston to secure a brand new home in Lower Roxbury, on Columbus Avenue. Co-Founder Ashleigh Gordon talks with Nichole about the group's history, mission, and plans for their new space, "Gold Hall".See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 28, 202420 min

Girl Scout Cookie Season in Massachusetts: Fun From Dough to Dollars

It's time to stock up on all your favorite Girl Scout cookies, everything from the classic Thin Mints and Peanut Butter Patties to the newer offerings like Lemonades. Each year, Girl Scouts around the country sell these tasty treats to raise money for their troops, but the lessons they learn are far deeper than just shelling out shortbread. Monica Roberts, the new Executive Director of the Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts, talks with Nichole about this season's sale, a flavor that's going away (so you'll want to stock up!), and her vision for the future of Girl Scouting here in Massachusetts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 28, 202417 min

Shopping with Pride: The Massachusetts LGBT Chamber's 2024 Holiday Gift Guide

If you still have some gifts to pick up for the holidays and you want to support local small businesses, the Massachusetts LGBT Chamber of Commerce says it's got you covered! The Chamber's new gift guide is out for the 2024 holiday season, highlighting LGBTQIA+ owned businesses all over the Commonwealth. From snacks to sweaters and beyond, Executive Director Alexandria Eberhardt says shoppers can get all kinds of ideas. She's on the show this week with Nichole to talk about the guide.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 21, 20249 min

Cradles to Crayons Helps Massachusetts Kids Stay Warm and Cozy for Winter

As the snow and winter conditions settle in, many children here in Massachusetts simply don't have the proper clothing to stay warm in the cold as families struggle to find enough money to go around to pay for essentials. Cradles to Crayons Boston is based in Newtonville, and they work with agencies and non-profits around the Commonwealth to get comfortable, warm clothing and other personal supplies out to as many children as possible. Executive Director Alicia Kabir, who recently joined the team, talks with Nichole about their "Gear Up for Winter" initiative and her plans for the non-profit's future.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 21, 202414 min

"Heads Up Boston" Helps Young Bostonians Open Up About Mental Health

Some new data from the Boston Public Health Commission's "Health of Boston Mental Health Report" shows a concerning trend with young people in the city: more than 40% of Boston Public Schools students say they experience persistent sadness or hopelessness. That number is higher in students from marginalized communities, such as young women, those who identify as LGBTQ, or those who are Black or Latino. In response, the City of Boston has launched a new program called "Heads Up Boston", where trusted adults help young people become more comfortable with opening up to their peers about what can be a very difficult subject. Samara Grossman, Director of the Boston Public Health Commission's Center for Behavioral health and Wellness, talks with Nichole about the program and its impact.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 21, 202415 min

ABCD's Winter Mission: Heat, Holiday Joy, and Happiness for Greater Boston Families

With so many families already struggling to cover monthly expenses, it can be even more complicated to try and stretch the paycheck to ensure kids get some special presents for the holidays. Action Boston Community Development, a non-profit helping people in the Greater Boston area connect to resources to get them out of poverty, says it's received thousands of requests for help with toys, but they have been struggling to meet demand. They are also collecting donations for their Winter Fund to keep families warm with winter clothing, heating assistance, and home winterization. President and CEO Sharon Scott-Chandler talks with Nichole about their efforts and shares important information about how you can help, or access assistance if necessary.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 14, 202423 min

Powering Through the Cold: How ISO New England Prepares the Power Grid for Winter

Here in New England, we haven't had a really bad cold snap yet this winter, but if we did, our power grid would be ready to handle it. That's the word from ISO New England, our regional power grid operator, which says it has more than enough juice to keep our lights and heaters going throughout the coldest winter months. Spokesman Randy Burlingame joins Nichole this week to talk about all the work going on behind the scenes to shore up the grid, forecast our demand, and keep the juice flowing.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 14, 20248 min

Fighting Hunger and Feeding Hope at the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts

While we often feel the urge during the holiday season to donate more to charity than we usually would, food insecurity doesn’t care what time of the year it is. It’s a major issue here in Massachusetts, and food banks around the Commonwealth are really feeling the stretch. Thousands of families in Western Massachusetts alone are struggling to put healthy food on the table each and every day, and the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts in Chicopee is a crucial part of the pipeline to make sure as many people as possible get access to nutritious meals. Executive Director Andrew Morehouse talks with Nichole about their efforts and shares details about how you can help them keep going.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 7, 202420 min

Historic Holiday Cheer in the Hub with Boston’s Freedom Trail Foundation

Boston is beautiful this time of year, celebrating the holidays with decorations and lights adorning our generations-old historic homes and businesses. Visitors and residents alike have a chance over the coming weeks to see the city’s historic sights through the lens of the past, and learn how holiday traditions here have evolved through the centuries. Jeremiah Poope, a tour guide with the Freedom Trail Foundation in Boston, chats with Nichole about their Historic Holiday Strolls that are running until the end of the year, and shares some fun facts you may not have known about our city’s past!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 7, 20248 min

Scrooge, Fezziwig, Cratchit and Crew in Worcester: “A Christmas Carol” at the Hanover Theatre

For generations, audiences around the world have cherished “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens on the stage and screen. It’s a staple of holiday celebrations, and over at the Hanover Theatre in Worcester, they’ve taken the classic story of the miserly, curmudgeonly Ebenezer Scrooge and re-imagined it with a modern twist while preserving its core message of hope and redemption. Associate Director Annie Kerins joins the show to share details about this year’s performances, which run from December 15-22, 2024.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 7, 202411 min

Secure and Safe Connections in Rhode Island for Domestic Violence Survivors

Most people have a cell phone and digital presence these days, and it's hard to avoid using banking, communication, and travel online platforms. For survivors of domestic violence, these phones and digital connections can also serve as critical lifelines, but they are often compromised and manipulated by abusers who are trying to force them to stay in dangerous relationships. A first-in-the-nation program in Rhode Island hopes to educate and promote digital safety for survivors. Nichole speaks with AT&T's Atlantic States President, John R. Emra, Elizabeth Buffum Chace Center VP Gina Scordino, and Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association Executive Director Sid Wordell about their efforts to keep people safe online.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 30, 202418 min