New England Weekend

Ransomware attacks have been in the news lately, but what are they, exactly? Do they just affect businesses and governments, or can individuals be hit, too? Stephanie Helm, Director of the MassCyberCenter, talks with Nichole about the ins and outs of these cyberattacks, how phishing can make you vulnerable, and how you can protect yourself. Todd Glickman, a volunteer at the Seashore Trolley Museum in Kennebunkport, Maine, joins Nichole to share the incredible history of the fleet of trolleys, buses, and trains they have on their 300 acre museum lot.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chris Besse, the Public Information Officer at the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency, joins Nichole to talk about the 2021 Atlantic hurricane season, which is already underway. Chris has tips on what you need to focus on to prepare for whatever sort of tropical weather comes our way, and insight about just how busy this storm season could be. Catherine T. Morris returns to the show to talk about her festival, BAMSFest, and how they work to uplift Black and Brown creators in the Greater Boston area. This year's festival is called "Amplify the Soul", and Catherine has details on the lineup, along with perspective on how creators are feeling post-pandemic.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Zoe Bradford, co-founder and President of the Company Theatre in Norwell, joins Robert Cinnante, the President of the South Shore Conservatory, to talk about their respective upcoming summer seasons. Now that COVID-19 restrictions are being lifted here in Massachusetts, Zoe and Robert describe the measures they're taking to keep people safe as the venues reopen. They also take a look back on how their organizations have weathered the past year and a half. Pierce Durkin, the Director of Operations for Boston Pride, joins Nichole to talk about this year's events to mark Pride month. Pierce and Nichole talk about the history of the Pride movement, and touch on Boston Pride's efforts to promote more equity in their ranks through their "Transforming Boston Pride" initiative.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marshall Strauss, co-owner of Cinema Salem, and John Andrews of Creative Collective join Nichole to talk about their renovations of the North Shore landmark. The theater closed during the pandemic and changed ownership during that time. Marshall and John talk about their vision to not only get the theatre back up and running, but also create a special space for the region's arts community. Chris Connolly of Herb Connolly Auto Group in Framingham has insight on the recent spike in car prices. It's all thanks to microchips, and a major worldwide shortage. Chris explains why the microchips are so important, what's fueling the shortage, why your dealership wants your car to resell, and when supply might start to bounce back.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Terri Bright, Director of Behavior Services at MSPCA-Angell, joins Nichole on the show to talk about separation anxiety - that is, in your pets! Now that so many of us are going back to the office as restrictions ease, Dr. Bright has advice on what you should look out for and how you can help your dogs, cats, and other furry friends ease into this new schedule. Then, Nichole is joined by members of the Picker Artists in Nashua, NH. Gail Moriarty is the President of the Nashua International Sculpture Symposium, Jim Larson is the Artistic Director of the Symposium, and Kate Pritchard is a board member. Together, they talk with Nichole about this year's event, how COVID-19 affected the members of the collective and their work, and a new project utilizing origami cranes to bring some hope and light to patients at a local hospital.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Renee McInnes, the CEO of NVNA and Hospice, joins Nichole to talk about the impacts of COVID-19 on the hospice industry. Renee has details on how nurses and health care providers are holding up, how they've had to innovate, and how they're helping to get the vaccine out to those who can't make it to vaccination sites. Nora Valdez, a Boston-based artist, talks with Nichole about her new project, "We Heal". Nora connected with people diagnosed with cancer in the Boston area to find out what brings them comfort and peace in difficult times. She also talks about other projects she's working on, including a push to build special benches in Vermont.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Melissa Grenier and Meghan Lemay from the Alzheimer's Association of MA/NH join Nichole to talk about their upcoming event, the Virtual Family Conference. This event, set for May 14 and 15, features several speakers and integral information for those living with Alzheimer's and dementia. There's help and support, too, for families and caregivers of those diagnosed, and those who want to learn more about the disease. Worcester Polytechnic Institute Biology Professor Pam Weathers talks with Nichole about their research of the sweet wormwood plant. Early research found extracts from the plant may be able to help in the fight against COVID-19!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Freya Shoffner of Shoffner and Associates joins Nichole for this week's episode to talk about all things small business: what sort of legal steps should you take if you just started a business during the pandemic? How do you go about getting assistance to keep your business up and running? Freya also talks about ways to get more women and BIPOC back into the workforce post-pandemic.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The city of Boston recently released its new "All Inclusive Boston" tourism campaign, focusing on an equitable recovery for residents and businesses in each and every neighborhood. Colette Phillips from Colette Phillips Communications, Hilina Ajakaiye from the Greater Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau, and Daren Bascome of Proverb join Nichole to talk about how the campaign came together, how it uplifts growing BIPOC businesses, and the push to show all that Boston has to offer to the world. Professor Anne Pluto, the Artistic Director of the Oxford Street Players at Lesley University, details their new production, "Twelve Nights of Shakespeare". The Players had to innovate to celebrate their 25th anniversary in the age of COVID-19, and Professor Pluto explains how they turned to an idea from the past to make it happen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tony Fogg, the Boston Symphony Orchestra's Tanglewood Director, joins Nichole to talk about the upcoming season of concerts at the legendary venue. This season will be a bit shorter than most because of COVID restrictions, but there will still be plenty of incredible shows to see! Tony also details the precautions Tanglewood is taking to keep patrons and musicians safe. Andy Nash is the Meteorologist-in-Charge over at the National Weather Service in Norton. Their weather balloon station in Chatham has fallen victim to climate change and beach erosion, and after several decades, they have to close it down. Andy explains how this affects their forecasting and what they plan to do next. Nate Fishman, a Boston resident, has designed a new website called Urbnparks to help people get outside and enjoy all the green space Greater Boston has to offer. He talks with Nichole about why he put the site together and how others can help it grow.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marc Hurwitz of Boston Restaurant Talk and Boston's Hidden Restaurants returns to the show. He talks with Nichole about life in the restaurant industry now that restrictions are starting to ease. Marc also has updates on restaurant closures around the region, and offers up some recommendations for those looking to try something new.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Michael Wilson is getting ready to run across the country. The Newburyport native joins Nichole to talk from the shores of Hermosa Beach, California about his upcoming trip. Michael has details about his motivations, his plans to get back home, and the charities he's hoping to support. Scott Johnson from Connecticut recently went viral for his extraordinary Boston sports memorabilia collection, but the collectibles weren't the only reason he put it together. Scott explains his family's efforts to honor their late son, Connor, who took his own life after a years-long struggle with addiction, anxiety, depression and cancer. ++ CW: Suicide, addiction ++See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the past few years, the historic homes at Strawbery Banke in Portsmouth, New Hampshire have been feeling the brunt of sea level rise. The museum has put together a new exhibit, in connection with their partners, for visitors to see first hand what the effects of climate change are doing to the museum, and how they can help. Rodney Rowland, the Director of Facilities and Environmental Sustainability, returns to the show to talk with Nichole about the exhibit and the status of the beloved homes, which date back centuries. John Linehan, President and CEO of Zoo New England, joins the show to talk with Nichole about their special virtual program for families, kids, and anyone who loves animals - virtual breakfast with animals at the zoo! John also shares conservation projects they're working on, and how the zoos are handling COVID as they reopen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sandy Gibson, the co-founder of Better Place Forests, joins Nichole to talk about a new way to memorialize loved ones who pass: surviving family members picking out a special tree in the Berkshires of Massachusetts or the Litchfield Hills of Connecticut, and spreading ashes underneath it. Sandy has details on how families can take part, and the company's push to promote conservation efforts in New England forests. Cathryn Edelstein, a Senior Executive-in-Residence at Emerson College's Communication Studies Department, talks with Nichole about "On The Same Page", a campaign she runs with her students to provide diverse books to students in the Boston Public Schools. You can find their work on Facebook and Instagram @onthesamepageboston.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Luisa "Nana" Barros and Rebecca Ottinger from the Cape Verdean-Jewish Passover Seder join Nichole to talk about the history of the event, which brings together two disapora cultures to celebrate community and love. This year is the 15th anniversary of the event, and it's the first time it's going virtual, thanks to COVID. Nana and Rebecca have details about how you can take part from anywhere in the world. Gabriel Langfur is a professional trombonist who is serving as President of the Board of Directors for the New England Musicians Relief Fund. Musicians and other live performers have been struggling to get by throughout the pandemic, both financially and mentally. Gabe talks with Nichole about the resources available for musicians in our region, and what he expects the coming months will hold for these performers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Grace and Dave, two residents of Boston's Allston-Brighton neighborhood, join Nichole to talk about community efforts to help those in need through special refrigerators set up around the city. The two talk about the process of teaming up with local businesses, sourcing the fridges, and how you can get one going in your neighborhood. After that, we hear from Allan Fitzmaurice, the Director of Consumer Affairs in Revere, and Bill O'Hearn, Chief of the Consumer Advocacy & Response Division at the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office. They have details on how the Commonwealth is marking National Consumer Protection Week, and resources available to help consumers who are struggling with scams or a difficult transaction.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Julie Bernson, the Associate Director of Learning at the Trustees of Reservations, talks with Nichole about their diverse offerings for day camps this coming summer. Julie also details the extensive steps they're taking to keep kids safe from COVID-19, and a special camp option for adults! Jamaal Eversley, an artist from Randolph, has his "Real F.R.I.E.N.D.S." exhibit on display at Boston's City Hall. He talks with Nichole about his inspiration, the collaborative of other artists he worked with to pull the exhibit together, and his hopes to create art that's accessible to everyone.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nichole speaks with Robert Corley, the CEO of Neighborworks Housing Solutions of Massachusetts, about a recent fire at the Marshfield Veterans Home. The facility was in the middle of a significant renovation, and not long from opening to take in veterans who are homeless. Robert talks with Nichole about the help they need from the community, and what's next for the project. Mimi Turchinetz, the Director of the Boston Tax Help Coalition, explains the free tax prep services that are available for many Boston residents. Mimi also details other ways the Coalition can help boost financial health, and what she expects this tax season to be like because of the pandemic.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nichole checks in with Dr. Toni Choueiri, the director of the Lank Center for Genitourinary Oncology at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, about a new study focused on cancer screenings. Many stayed home instead of getting their recommended screenings in the early months of the pandemic. What does that mean for the fight against cancer now? C.R. Lyons, President of the Massachusetts Funeral Directors Association, talks about life in the funeral industry during the pandemic, and the Association's push to get priority access for a vaccine. Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn explains his recent call for a City Council hearing to find ways for the city to be more proactive in its fight against HIV and AIDS.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nichole is joined by Massachusetts state representatives Chynah Tyler of Roxbury and Carlos Gonzalez of Springfield - both members of the state's Black and Latino Legislative Caucus. Rep. Tyler is about to become the youngest woman to ever lead the Caucus. The lawmakers talk with Nichole about the priorities of the Caucus in the new legislative session, and the strides the Caucus has made in recent years. Kathy Ohman, the Founder of FORWARD, has details on the organization's work to help provide safe, accessible homes for people with autism on Cape Cod.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nancy Owens Hess, the Executive Director of Elizabeth Stone House in Boston, tells Nichole about their new project - a brand new center to help with transitional housing, child care, and community engagement for adult and child victims of domestic violence. Weeks before the center was supposed to open, there was a major accident, which is setting their timeline back by months. Nancy has more on how the public can help. MDAR Commissioner John Lebeaux talks with Nichole about winter farmer's markets here in Massachusetts and all they have to offer. The two also talk about how farmers are helping combat food insecurity during the pandemic, and how our shopping habits are changing because of the coronavirus.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Michael Colford, the Director of Library Services at the Boston Public Library, talks with Nichole about the library's new theme for 2021, "Repairing America". Colford details their schedule of guest speakers, and the organizations they're working with to help facilitate community conversations, provide educational resources for career development, and pick up a good book. Mike Ramshaw, team president of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats, joins the show to talk about the life and legacy of their beloved bat dog, Ollie the golden retriever, who recently passed away.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Deirdre Calvert, the Director of the Bureau of Substance Addiction Services at the MA Department of Public Health, joins Nichole to talk about their new #StateWithoutStigMA campaign - a timely move as people struggling with substance abuse deal with increasing isolation because of the pandemic. Lyndia Downie, President & Executive Director of the Pine Street Inn in Boston, talks with Nichole about the efforts they're taking to help distribute the COVID-19 vaccine, and how the pandemic and difficult housing market's affecting their efforts to get people in safe, secure housing.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Like so much this year, the Boston Symphony Orchestra has had to make adjustments to how they celebrate the season with their "Holiday Pops" concert. Conductor Keith Lockhart joins Nichole to talk about their virtual move. Between holiday decorations and winter heating, fire safety is paramount this time of year. Massachusetts State Fire Marshal Peter Ostroskey has tips to keep you and your family safe. The virus is also forcing Boston's New Year's Eve celebration to go virtual. TK Skenderian from First Night talks about how you can catch this year's 6+ hour lineup of performers from all over the region. WBZ's Carl Stevens has a touching story from Salem, about a group of friends who come together to help a woman in her final days.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Edmund Barry Gaither, the Director and Curator at the Museum of the National Center of Afro-American Artists in Roxbury, joins Nichole to discuss this year's performance of Langston Hughes' "Black Nativity". This year's performance marks 50 years since the show arrived in Boston, and the pandemic's not stopping the museum from celebrating. Lynne Bourque and Alicia MacDonald from Littleton started a holiday tree scavenger hunt in their town four years ago, and they talk about how getting outside for some fresh air's an extra special way to celebrate this season. Julieane Frost from the Worcester Art Museum details their ongoing holiday celebrations, "Zip Zoom Tours", and new exhibits as we enter the new year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mark O'Donnell, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts, tells Nichole about the program's efforts to connect kids in underserved communities with mentors at a time when both could use companionship and a friendly ear. Iaritza Menjivar of the Somerville Arts Council joins artist Asia Kepka to detail their work on the new "Somerville Remembers" project, which pays tribute to residents of the city lost to the COVID-19 virus.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Robert Lewis Jr., President and Founder of the BASE in Roxbury, joins Teamsters Local 25 President Sean O'Brien to talk about their new partnership focusing on providing new job opportunities to inner-city youth. They talk with Nichole about their goals, their job training programs, and their hopes for future generations. Bonnie Roalsen, the Director of the Woburn Public Library, joins Nichole to talk about a new art exhibit, "Brighter Connected", which showcases Jewish art as we approach Hanukkah.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mark Ericson from Special Olympics of New Hampshire joins Nichole to talk about all the ways they're helping athletes stay active and healthy, even though some of their normal activities have been cancelled because of the pandemic. He also has details on their Virtual Torch Run and the upcoming Penguin Plunge! Emily Shea and Eugenia Soiles with Boston's Age Strong Commission explain how you can help them decorate holiday cards to keep seniors smiling this season. Christina Smart of Whitman's been working for five years to collect toys and gifts each holiday to distribute to kids in psychiatric hospitals. She'll have details on how you can help. WBZ's Carl Stevens takes a closer look at the state of mental health in Massachusetts several months into the pandemic.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Project Bread President Erin McAleer returns to the show to give Nichole an update on programs in place to help Massachusetts families stay fed and nourished this holiday season. She also has details on their FoodSource hotline, and information for those needing assistance because of the pandemic. Terry Maxey, the Agency Director at Open Pantry Community Services in Springfield, talks about critical services they provide for people in need, including access to housing for those in recovery and assistance for teen mothers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mickey Cockrell, the CEO and co-founder of Catie's Closet in Dracut, comes on the show to talk with Nichole about the non-profit, which gets toiletries, clothes, accessories and outerwear out to children and teens in need. Normally, they help operate "closets" in dozens of schools, but they've had to find a new way to get these critical supplies while children learn remotely. Karen Dourdeville, the Sea Turtle Stranding Coordinator at Mass Audubon's Wellfleet Bay Sanctuary, tells us why turtles are starting to wash up on Cape Cod's beaches, either "cold-stunned" or dead, and what you can do to help save their lives.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Karla Hostetler, the Director of the Mariposa Museum in Peterborough, NH, joins Nichole to talk about the re-opening of the museum's "Freedom Songs" exhibit, which takes a look at the American experience through Black art. Karen Hallisey-Pesa, the program director of Regis College's Dental Hygiene program, joins student Jordan Ferris to talk about their efforts to offer affordable dental care to residents in the Waltham area. WBZ's Laurie Kirby has details on a major grant recently awarded to researchers at two Boston-area hospitals studying how race affects breast cancer treatment and survival rates.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This week's show includes two women working hard to protect survivors. Diana Mancera, the Director of Membership and Programs at Jane Doe, Inc., talks with Nichole about how they team up with public and private agencies in Massachusetts to work on legislation and direct resources to those organizations. Kourou Pich, the Executive Director of HarborCOV in Chelsea, talks with Nichole about their work to provide immediate assistance to survivors, and domestic violence in the immigrant community. +CW: Discussion of physical, emotional, sexual, psychological and financial violence against partners+See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WBZ-TV Chief Meteorologist Eric Fisher joins Nichole on the show to talk about the dry conditions we've been dealing with lately, how it affects the foliage forecast, and what we could have in store for the winter. DCR Commissioner Jim Montgomery talks about COVID-19 precautions at the state parks, and the amenities they have to offer those who want to get outside. Marc Hurwitz has details on the Appalachian Mountain Club's hikes around New England, and some tips on hidden gems for you to find on a day off.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sarah Munsen from Nantucket Cottage Hospital joins Nichole to talk about their new Grief Project, launched to help residents of the island work through the difficulties brought on in life by the pandemic, and the losses they've felt. Kathleen Jodka, the founder of the Mad Love Music Festival, explains the ways they're modifying their event this year to bring the spirit of the event to everyone's home. WBZ's Kim Tunnicliffe talks with Lara Shelton of Wayland, a professional ice skater who details the troubles her sport's facing because of the pandemic, and ways you can help.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lisa Gurgone, the Executive Director of Mass Home Care, tells Nichole about a new rideshare program in the Merrimack Valley for seniors to get to and from their appointments. She also has details on services to help keep their loved ones safe and healthy during the pandemic. Cecilie Pope, a volunteer with Circle of Hope, talks about the Needham nonprofit's efforts to get critical supplies out to the homeless here in Massachusetts as we make our way into fall. Plus: part of a conversation between WBZ's Drew Moholland and Berklee College of Music President Roger Brown!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Susan Strate, the senior program manager for the Population Estimates Program at the UMass Donahue Institute, joins Nichole to talk about the ins and outs of the 2020 Census, and how the data collected from the count is used to directly affect our lives here in Massachusetts. Carmen Plazas and Lisa Simmons from the Massachusetts Cultural Council detail their new Racial Equality Listening Sessions, where they hope to spark a conversation with members of the Commonwealth's cultural sector to bring about meaningful, systemic change.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marc Hurwitz from Boston Restaurant Talk / Boston's Hidden Restaurants returns to the show for a six month check-in on the restaurant industry as it deals with fallout from the pandemic. Marc details some of the iconic New England eateries that have closed their doors, and some newcomers on the scene. Marc and Nichole also talk about how workers are feeling, how our eating habits are changing, and much more - also, answering listener questions!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Samantha Phillips, the Director of the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency, chats with Nichole about Emergency Preparedness Month. She's got tips for how you can ensure your family's ready for any disaster that comes, and how to do so affordably. Paddy Swanson, the Artistic Director of the Revels in Watertown, recalls the history of the group as they mark 50 years at the Sanders Theatre in Cambridge. He also has details about their upcoming Christmas celebration, and how the public can get involved to make their (singing) voices heard.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Christina Pendleton, the founder of LiKen, joins Nichole to talk about her efforts to provide comfort and help for Massachusetts teens struggling with the fallout from substance abuse in their families. Stephanie Helm of the Mass Cyber Center has details on their new mentorship program, which focuses on diversity as they connect young students with members of the cybersecurity industry.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

T. Michael Thomas, Founder of The People's Academy in Dorchester, joins Executive Director Tanisha Stephney on this week's show. They talk with Nichole about how the Academy works with disenfranchised young people in the city to teach them essential skills for the trades, and offers them life lessons to get them on a strong path for their future. Toni Eaton, the President and CEO of Old Colony Hospice in West Bridgewater, has details on their new "Threads Boutique" coming soon to Brockton. Profits from that store will help fund their new hospice home in Braintree.Bonus stories this week from WBZ's Karyn Regal, Kim Tunnicliffe, and Shari Small!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Heidi Schork and Liz O'Brien from the Mayor's Mural Crew talk with Nichole about this summer's group of Boston teen artists, and how they helped kids handle the COVID19 crisis by channeling their creativity. Bill McKenzie, president of the Friends of Endicott Park, explains the efforts to revamp the Townley Family Children's Barn, a Danvers institution that's been around for more than a century. WBZ's Ben Parker guests on the show with Harry Kokkinis, the president of Table Talk Pies in Worcester, as they discuss the company's new bakery and what's ahead for the New England mainstay.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Josh Trautwein, Co-Founder of About Fresh, comes on the show to talk about their mission to get healthy food into the hands of Bostonians, and the programs they've rolled out to get it done. Sheena Collier, the founder of Boston While Black, details her new venture to help Black professionals network around Greater Boston, especially those who are new to the area.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of Boston's best known landmarks, honoring the first all-Black regiment to fight in the Civil War, is getting a major facelift. Liz Vizza with the Friends of the Public Garden returns to the show to give us an update on the restoration process. Then, we dive deeper into the history of the memorial, and how it connects to the renewed push for racial justice and equity, with L'Merchie Frazier, the Director of Education and Interpretation at the Museum of African-American History.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Boston's new Chief of Equity, Dr. Karilyn Crockett, joins Nichole on the show to talk about her new role in Mayor Walsh's new cabinet-level office at City Hall. Dr. Crockett, a Dorchester native who lectures at MIT, discusses the steps the city's taking to tackle systemic racism. Rodney Rowland, the Director of Special Projects and Facilities at Strawbery Banke in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, tells Nichole how the museum has been weathering the COVID-19 pandemic, and how they're trying to protect some of their historic homes from effects of climate change.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tim Ritchie, the President of Boston's Museum of Science, joins Nichole to talk about the plans in place to get the museum up and running as part of Phase 3, and welcome the public back safely. Katie Hurwitz of Walpole tells Nichole about her new "porchfest" event in that town, and how she hopes to use live music to bring her community together as they fight COVID-19. Special guest interview from WBZ's Drew Moholland, who speaks with Olympic Gold medalist Meghan Duggan, a North Shore native!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Megan Winton, a research scientist with the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy, joins Nichole on the show to talk all things sharks! She details the different types of sharks we find off the coast of New England, and explains their behaviors. Megan also talks about the Conservancy's research, their Sharktivity app, and how people can keep themselves safe while they're near the water.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mark Simos, Associate Professor of Songwriting at the Berklee College of Music, joins Nichole to reveal the winners of this year's "Songs for Social Change" contest. Marion Larson, Chief of Information & Education at MassWildlife, delivers a primer on the piping plover - a cute, small shore bird that needs a lot of space on our local beaches this time of year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BAMS Fest Founder Catherine T. Morris joins Nichole to talk about the history of the urban arts festival, the relationships organizers build with creators of color in the Boston area and beyond, and how the festival's dealing with the coronavirus. Boston Restaurant Talk's Marc Hurwitz returns to the show to talk with Nichole about struggles owners are dealing with as they try to re-open for both indoor and outdoor dining. Marc lists some recent restaurant closures in the Greater Boston area, and offers some insider views on where the industry is going as we make our way into the "new normal".See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kathy Zagzebski, President and Executive Director at the National Marine Life Center in Buzzards Bay, talks with Nichole about how the Center's keeping up its work to provide critical care for seals, turtles, and other animals brought in during the pandemic. Katherine Taylor, a photojournalist from Somerville, tells the story of her new project "Masks of Boston". Taylor photographs residents around Greater Boston, asking them who they wear their mask for, and how they're handling the effects of the pandemic in their daily lives.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jason Talbot, co-founder and Deputy Director of Artists for Humanity, tells Nichole about the organization's work to employ underserved teens in the city, provide them the space to create, and teach them critical business skills. Martha Plaza, a board member of Boston Pride, talks about this year's events - many of which are moving online as we deal with COVID-19. She also talks about what Pride is doing to support LGBTQIA+ communities of color.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.