New England Weekend

Girl Scout cookies can be incredibly addictive right out of the box, but imagine them transformed into a completely different type of tasty dessert! That's the assignment for a group of local bakers and chefs who are coming together in Boston's Seaport later this month for the "Cookies and Cocktails" event to benefit the Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts. Valerie Nin, Executive Pastry Chef at Grill 23 in Boston, is one of the chefs competing in this tasty event. She joins Nichole on this week's episode to talk about the event, her idea for the competition, and the Girl Scouts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Utilizing public transit systems can be challenging for those who are visually impaired. Keolis North America, the company that runs the MBTA Commuter Rail, is rolling out a new partnership with an app called Navilens to help bridge the accessibility gap. Giant, colorful QR codes are being put up around certain commuter rail stations to help disseminate information through the app, and Adam Ross, Manager of Customer Experience at Keolis, explains how the system works to Nichole on this week's episode.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The transition back to civilian life can be rocky for some veterans. It's critical to ensure they have a dedicated support system in place to help, but, unfortunately, many fall through the cracks. There's a brand new veterans center in Plymouth where veterans can access comprehensive services to help them address their unique needs and get set up for success. Charles Gagnon, President and CEO of Volunteers of America Massachusetts, talks with Nichole this week about their work with the state to get the center up and running, and everything they have to offer.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Halloween is the busiest time of the year in Salem, with people coming from all over the world to take part in Haunted Happenings. You may not have known this, but Salem, for a time, was known as home to the Ouija board. A Danvers-based board game company recently came out with an update to this spooky game which pays tribute to Salem's deep history. Phil Orbanes, Co-Founder of Winning Moves Games, shares details about the game and the company's deep connection to a well-known gaming giant.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some of Boston's civic leaders are getting ready to pack their bags and head back to school, but not in the way you'd think. City councilors, state and federal lawmakers, community leaders and many others are teaming up with 826 Boston for their very first Civic Leaders Week of Tutoring, which runs from October 21-24. 826 Boston is a Roxbury non-profit dedicated to helping students find their voice through creative, thoughtful and educational writing, and Executive Director Corey Yarbrough talks with Nichole about their mission, their plans for the tutoring week, and the work they do with students in some of Boston's underserved neighborhoods.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lung cancer is the one of the most dangerous forms of cancer that exists. Here in the US, it is the leading cause of cancer deaths each and every year, and often, people don't realize they have it until it's too late. Hildy Grossman's diagnosis caught her by surprise, and as a performer, she decided to use her experience to start Upstage Lung Cancer, a non-profit dedicated to raising awareness and funding to fuel research to find a cure. Hildy shares her dynamic story with Nichole, along with details about the impact they've already made to bring an end to this insidious disease.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A scam email has been going around in recent weeks that has been so concerning, several local police departments have issued warnings about it. The scammer tells you that they're able to spy on you through your computer or your phone, and they then threaten to release a bunch of info about you if you don't pay up. How do these emails work? Who is behind all this? Why is this one making such a mark? Professor Amir Houmansadr at UMass Amherst breaks this down with Nichole and talks about how you can protect yourself against these scammers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The heartbreak and destruction in the Southeast in the wake of Hurricane Helene is overwhelming. Hundreds are dead and the damage is nothing short of catastrophic. An untold number of people will have to find a way to start all over again, and that also includes animal rescuers. The MSPCA has been working since the storm hit to offer whatever help they can to keep animals safe. Mike Keiley, the Vice President of Animal Protection at the MSPCA, talks with Nichole about their efforts and what you can do to assist.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With many adults in Massachusetts struggling with food insecurity, Daily Table has set up several non-profit grocery stores in Greater Boston to try and connect families with fresh, healthy food at a price that won't break the bank account. One of their most popular programs provides shoppers on SNAP with a significant discount on fruits and vegetables, but that program has unexpectedly been stopped. Sasha Purpura, CEO of Daily Table, talks with Nichole this week about what happened and how the community can help make sure everyone can stay nourished.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hundreds of people in recovery are expected to gather at Carson Beach in South Boston on October 5 for the Shatterproof Walk. Shatterproof is a Connecticut-based non-profit that works to stop the stigma surrounding substance abuse and addiction by bringing people together in community. They also provide critical resources for people who want to find help and get on the road to recovery. Kirsten Seckler, Marketing Director for Shatterproof, shares information about the upcoming walk and Shatterproof's mission.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

King's Chapel is a must-see stop on the Freedom Trail in Boston. It's been an active church for hundreds of years, and there's so much history to take in, including the stories of the families buried in their crypt. The church is embracing the eerier side of history through the Halloween season, offering special after-hours crypt tours where you'll be led by candlelight. Gianna Russi, History Program Director at the Chapel, joins Nichole to talk about all the spooky details.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Next week, Pine Street Inn in Boston will be holding a special voter registration drive at their 140 Clarendon complex. This drive is all about challenging misconceptions about the rights of those who are unhoused to cast votes in the upcoming election, and helping everyone who wants to vote get registered to do so. Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll is also scheduled to make an appearance! Lyndia Downie, Executive Director at Pine Street Inn, is back on the show with all the details.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Each and every holiday season, the Dover, NH Fire Department is able to hand out toys to hundreds of families thanks to the generous gifts to the department's Toy Bank, which has been running for decades. Now, this year's holiday mission is in jeopardy due to a devastating flood. Firefighter and paramedic Mike Kilday joins the show this week to talk about how you can help.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The heat of the summer is starting to fade, and now that autumn has arrived, we're getting into a season full of foliage, apple picking, and hiking - complete with tasty warm meals to keep you going throughout the day! Marc Hurwitz of Boston Restaurant Talk leads hikes around New England for the Appalachian Mountain Club, and he returns to the show this week to talk about his recent trips, recommendations, the state of the restaurant industry, and bar pizza.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For more than 40 years, King Richard's Faire in Carver has been the place for Renaissance lovers to step back in time to sixteenth century living, complete with jousting, artisans, costumes, performers, musicians, and those big turkey legs you can snack on. Aimée Shapiro Sedley, the Chief Operating Officer of the Faire, joins Nichole to talk about what's in store for this year's event.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The crisp days of fall are starting to settle in, and that means it's time to celebrate the cranberry harvest! Each year in Harwich, the community comes together for the Harwich Cranberry Arts and Music Festival, where you can find unique arts and crafts from local artisans, performances from New England bands, and all the tasty food you can eat. Kathy Kirch and Bob Weiser share all the details on this week's show.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Late summer is a great time to enjoy an evening walk on the beach, a campfire after dinner, Friday Night Lights, or grilling on the back porch. Unfortunately, mosquitoes and the viruses some of them are carrying are making it a lot harder to enjoy those simple pleasures these days. West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis have been in the headlines lately, and Nichole talks with Massachusetts State Epidemiologist Dr. Catherine Brown to answer some of the big questions surrounding this growing public health problem.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While Salem's usually known this time of year for getting a bit spooky, there's a lot of excitement for another big festival, and this one's all for the lovers of the written word! This year's Salem Literary Festival runs from September 4-8, both online and in-person, with all sorts of fun and informative events for bibliophiles and aspiring writers. Nichole speaks with Jean Marie Procious, Executive Director of the Salem Athenaeum, author Betty Cayouette, and WBZ-AM alum/Salem Lit Fest Committee Member Diane Stern about this family-friendly event!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the coming weeks, 18 men who are incarcerated at the Norfolk County Correctional Center will be learning some serious kitchen skills through a new collaboration between the Snapchef Foundation and the Norfolk County Sheriff's Office. The aim is to help these justice-involved individuals get on the right path after they're released with these culinary skills under their belt and a clear path to a new career. Norfolk County Sheriff Patrick McDermott and Carley Snopkowski at SnapChef talk with Nichole about this new program and why it's so important to set these people up for success.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are all kinds of therapies out there to help what ails you - art, music, animals, and much more - but have you heard of surf therapy? Gnome Surf is a non-profit working on the South Coast of Massachusetts and Rhode Island, and their mission is to help people who are neurodivergent, disabled, suffering from PTSD, and many others reduce their anxiety, improve their focus, and learn how to love the water. COO Jen Potter joins the show this week to talk with Nichole about their efforts and how this special therapy is changing lives.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A big change is on the way over the next few months for two long-time local zoos. John Linehan has led the Franklin Park Zoo in Boston and Stone Zoo in Stoneham - known together as Zoo New England - for decades. Now, he says it's time for him to step aside. John returns to the show to talk with Nichole about his work in conservation, why he thinks now is the time to leave, and the beloved animals he's been able to forge lasting connections with over the years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The emergency shelter crisis in Massachusetts has reached a critical stage. State officials, including Governor Healey, have made moves to limit just how long families can utilize the shelter system, saying the influx of migrants and residents using the system has pushed it to a breaking point. Agencies like Heading Home in Boston have been working tirelessly to uphold the state's "Right to Shelter" law and ensure as many people as possible have a roof over their head. Heading Home CEO Danielle Ferrier joins Nichole this week to talk about the situation and what needs to happen to turn this concerning trend around.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's been decades since World War II, a conflict that shaped the world as we know it today. You can learn about it in history books, photographs, and newsreels, but you can also get up close and personal with some of the vehicles that were right there on the battlefield alongside the soldiers who fought for freedom against the Axis alliance. The American Heritage Museum in Hudson is hosting a special tank demonstration August 17-18, and Hunter Chaney, Director of Marketing at the Museum and Collings Foundation, joins Nichole on this week's show to talk about this educational, fun event.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Communities along the shores of the Merrimack River, and the health of the people who live in them, are the focus of a new study by a research team at Boston University. The study focuses on "combined sewer overflows", events that are triggered by heavy rains and severe weather that send thousands of gallons of harmful bacteria and sewage into the river. Dr. Beth Haley, a BU URBAN Trainee, joins Nichole this week to talk about the impact of these overflows on residents and what can be done to mitigate this problem.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are lots of very good dogs with jobs out there, helping people with physical and mental disabilities live more accessible lives. Through the years, the folks at NEADS World Class Service Dogs in Princeton have noticed more and more people are trying to pass off their pets as legitimate service dogs, which can put businesses, public facilities, and cultural centers in a bit of a bind. Cathy Zemaitis, the Chief Development and Programs Officer at NEADS, joins Nichole to talk about their new "Red Vest" initiative which offers information and training to help tackle this sensitive problem.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cinema fans have made their way to the Berkshires for nearly 40 years to take part in the Berkshire Jewish Film Festival, watching thought-provoking movies that highlight Jewish culture, history, and contemporary issues. The event is even more poignant this year amid the hostage crisis in the Middle East and a resurgence of anti-Semitism around the country, including here in New England. Artistic Director Beth Kruvant has details about this year's lineup and panelists, and talks with Nichole about the importance of such an event for the local Jewish community.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shakespeare fans have been flocking to Boston Common for years to take in the Commonwealth Shakespeare Company's summer productions. From the Bard's best known classics to some lesser known titles, the performers do this night after night for free in hopes of boosting accessibility to the arts. Now, the Company is taking its next step, putting its own spin on a Christmas classic for the very first time. Founding Artistic Director Steven Maler joins Nichole this week to talk about their Common production, "A Winter's Tale", and their efforts to expand their offerings into the winter season.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you visit Boston's iconic Public Garden frequently, you might be familiar with the Garden's stunning willow trees that line the lagoon. Many have been there for decades, and that was the case for one of the most beloved trees of all: 3-D-09, which was recently taken down due to disease after growing there for more than a century, watching the city change dramatically around it. Liz Vizza, President of the Friends of the Public Garden, returns to the show to talk about the tree's history, why it was such a standout, and the Friends' plan to preserve the willows that remain.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The heat and humidity have been downright oppressive at times around New England lately, and it's hard for humans to stay cool in such conditions. For dogs and cats, it's much more complicated thanks to their thick fur and body development. Each summer, many pets come down with heatstroke, or even die, because they are left in a hot car - even for just a few minutes. Dr. Edward Schettino, President and CEO of the Animal Rescue League of Boston, talks with Nichole about their "Too Hot for Spot" campaign and offers some critical tips to help keep your pet safe.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We're almost halfway through the 20's (the 2020's, that is), but if you want to take a trip back in time to the 1920's, the Trustees of Reservations can help you out with that. Their "Roaring Twenties Lawn Party" returns to the Crane Estate in Ipswich August 3 and 4, showcasing all things 1920's like jazz music, swing dancing, vintage clothes, classic cars, and much more! Trina Schell, the Public Programs and Volunteer Manager at the Trustees, joins Nichole to talk about this festive event.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We're far gone from the days of dial-up internet, and you'd think that everyone here in Massachusetts has access to reliable, high-speed broadband connections for work, play, and school. Unfortunately, that's not the case, but there is a new effort to get more information about where those gaps are around the Commonwealth. Jody Jones, the Senior Program Director at the Massachusetts Broadband Institute at the MassTech Collaborative talks with Nichole about the importance of closing the "digital divide", and shares information about their new portal where you can weigh in on access.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many dogs work for the Boston Police Department each and every day, but the department has never had a comfort dog - until now! Copper the dog is BPD's first ever comfort dog, and she's in training with her handler, Officer Tim Wilson. Nichole talks with Officer Wilson, BPD Chief of Communications Mariellen Burns, and Copper about their training journey and her role in the community.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's almost time to party in Boston's South End! New England's longest-running Latine culture festival returns with an incredible musical lineup, tasty food, a parade, and plenty of fun. Inquilinos Boricuas en Acción's "Festival Betances" is all about inclusion, community, and expression.. IBA's CEO, Vanessa Calderón-Rosado, returns to the show with all the details about this special event.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's all fun and games these days in downtown Malden! The city has been putting a lot of effort into creating a gamer's paradise around the Malden Center MBTA stop, continually growing the "Gaming District" each and every year with more fun offerings. They say there is something for everyone, from the casual gamer to a console legend. Kevin Duffy and Tess Young join Nichole this week to talk about the initiative and how they're working to bring in even more exciting experiences.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Sumner Tunnel restoration project has been going on for some time, and you might remember last summer's closure that lasted nearly two months, causing major delays around Logan Airport and East Boston. MassDOT says they have to shut it down again for a few weeks so crews can get back in there and complete a good chunk of road work without having to worry about traffic or lane closures. Once it's all done, Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver says we'll see the light at the end of the tunnel when it comes to the project. He joins Nichole this week to share the details for commuters.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You may not think about your local water, sewer, or electricity department when you think about hackers and cybersecurity problems. Unfortunately, federal officials say they're starting to see more and more of our utilities getting hit by cyber threats, often from hackers connected to places like Russia, Iran, and China. The Mass Cyber Center works with utilities, schools, businesses and government agencies to make sure they are protected against threats and train the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. Director John Petrozzelli returns to the show to detail these threats and talk about the resources in place to secure our systems.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

School's out for summer, and spirits are high at the Discovery Museum in Acton - not only because kids are having a blast in the space, but also because they are the recent recipient of a highly esteemed award from the Institute of Museum and Library Services! The museum is known for its efforts to embrace sustainability and inclusivity while providing local children a place to learn and grow. CEO Marie Beam talks with Nichole about the new award and their summer offerings.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Food insecurity has been a growing problem in Massachusetts for years, especially since the start of the COVID pandemic. Inflation hasn't helped, with food prices skyrocketing at the grocery store and at local restaurants. A new report from the Greater Boston Food Bank in collaboration with Mass General Brigham takes a closer look at the factors driving this concerning trend. Catherine D'Amato, President and CEO of the Food Bank, and Dr. Lauren Fiechtner, Director of Nutrition at the Mass General Hospital for Children, break down the highlights of the report with Nichole and share resources for those who are in need.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is holding this year's "Out of the Darkness" overnight fundraiser walk right here in Boston. It's a critical fundraiser for the organization which works to provide resources for those who are struggling and hold space to have difficult conversations around a subject that still has a heavy stigma attached to it. People from all walks of life will come together for this event to share their stories, grieve, empathize, smile, and form connections throughout the 16-mile course. Erin Kenny, Overnight Senior Manager at the Foundation, joins Nichole to talk about the upcoming event and how the Foundation shines a light on mental health.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We love our "Dirty Water" here in Massachusetts - that, of course, being the nickname for the Charles River, which has been infamous over the years for its polluted state. These days, though, thanks to the work of many environmental groups, including the Charles River Conservancy, the water is much clearer - to the point where you can actually swim in it! The Conservancy's "City Splash" event is coming up, whcere you can grab a floatie, dip your feet, dog paddle, or do a killer cannonball into the river to cool off on a hot summer day. Laura Jasinski, Executive Director of the Charles River Conservancy, talks with Nichole this week about the state of the Charles and this exciting event.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pets of all shapes and sizes fill a critical role for seniors, providing them support, care, and companionship. However, having a pet doesn't come cheap, especially with all the bills that pile up: food, grooming, toys, leashes, veterinary care, the works. Many seniors on fixed incomes find it difficult to keep up with those bills, and that's where ElderPet comes in to help. They work with seniors on the New Hampshire Seacoast to ensure they have everything they need to make sure their beloved pets stay by their side for as long as possible. Jerilee Zezula, Treasurer of ElderPet, joins us to talk about their history and efforts, and what you can do to keep them going.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's the perfect time of year for kids to grab their bikes and get out to explore the world around them, be it a city street or some nearby woods. While many young people grow up with access to bikes, not every child has that same opportunity, and that's where Mutt Society comes in to help. They team up with fellow bikers to fix trails, support young athletes, and get bikes into the hands of underserved young people, including at an upcoming event in Pathways in Lynn. Trent Sanders, co-founder of Mutt Society, joins us to talk about how you can help them make sure every child has a bike to enjoy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial kick-off of the summer travel season, and it's important to make sure that your vehicle is in tip-top shape as you head on out your adventures. Mark Schieldrop at AAA Northeast spoke with Nichole for a few minutes about early summer vehicle maintenance and what you should focus on for a quick checkup.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Young people around the nation are struggling with a mental health crisis that's only been exacerbated since the height of the COVID pandemic. Anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts are nothing new to Gen Z and Gen Alpha, and young people are often more willing to open up about their mental health struggles. The NAN Project is working one-on-one with young people, their schools, their families, and even local law enforcement to offer support and solutions. Jake Cavanaugh, Executive Director of The NAN Project, joins Nichole this week to tell their story and share details about their efforts in schools around Massachusetts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Veterans around the nation, including right here in New England, are finding themselves facing mental, physical, and emotional battles as they try to re-adjust to life at home. Soldier On in Pittsfield wants to ensure those who gave so much for our country have everything they need, and that their service and sacrifices are never forgotten. They're committed to finding or creating permanent housing, health care, mental health services, and much more for veterans around the Northeast. CEO Bruce Buckley stops by the show this week to share all the details with Nichole and talk about how veterans in need can find help.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Inquilinos Boricuas en Acción, a community organization in Boston's South End that has been supporting Latinx residents for decades, is about to break ground on its new home: La CASA, a new arts and culture center that hopes to amplify voices and ideas not just in Boston, but also serve as a space to bring New England's Latinx communities together. IBA CEO Vanessa Calderón-Rosado stops by the show this week to talk with Nichole about their mission, plans for construction, and the work IBA is doing to help protect and uplift Boston's Latinx residents.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While Massachusetts has some of the best health care in the world, there are still stark disparities when it comes to Black maternal health. Mass General Brigham is addressing these concerns through its "United Against Racism" initiative, and one of the methods the health care system is working to reduce these disparities is through the use of doulas. Dr. Allison Bryant, Associate Chief Health Equity Officer at Mass General Brigham, joins Nichole this week to talk about the "Birth Partners Doula" project, the benefits doulas can provide for those giving birth, and how the project is going so far.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

May is Haitian Heritage Month, which makes this the perfect time for Boston's new Haitian cultural center, the Toussaint L'Ouverture Cultural Center, to open its doors in the West End. Nestled in Lovejoy Wharf, the Center promises to offer education, information, music, arts, and so much more for Boston's growing Haitian community. Dr. Elizabeth Louis, a member of the Executive Committee at TLCC, shares the vision for the center with Nichole on this week's episode, and also has details on the upcoming groundbreaking ceremony.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Now that spring is here, it's time to take a hike! Or several. New England has everything you could possibly want when it comes to nature, all within a couple hours' drive. We have no shortage of restaurants for a post-hike nosh, too. Marc Hurwitz of Boston Restaurant Talk and Boston's Hidden Restaurants returns to the show to talk about his excursions with the Appalachian Mountain Club, his latest recommendations, and closures around the area.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In April, to mark Earth Week, state officials in Massachusetts announced a new $775,000 grant will be used in the coming months to put more air sensors in place around the Commonwealth, with a special focus on "environmental justice" communities - low-income and under-served cities and towns that often feel the worst impacts of pollution and climate change. MassDEP Commissioner Bonnie Heiple has details about the plan and how they hope to use the data to put policy in place that will improve air quality for those communities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.