Podcasts about Beacon Hill

The so-called Bright Act, is a $3 billion bond bill aiming to put at least $2.5 billion of that back into campuses across Massachusetts.

This week on The Codcast, we dive into what can feel like a perennial story: the MBTA hurtling toward another financial shortfall that Beacon Hill needs to address. But at this point, is the significant growth in state funding for the T an acknowledgment that good public transit requires big public investment, or is it a reflection of out-of-control spending? Our guests, former Transportation Secretary Jim Aloisi and Pioneer Institute senior fellow Charlie Chieppo, debate that central question and more. Host: Chris Lisinski, senior reporter at CommonWealth Beacon Guests: Jim Aloisi, former transportation secretary Charlie Chieppo, senior fellow at the Pioneer Institute

Mike Crawford of the 'Young Jurks' joins Grace and they talk about State Auditor Diana DiZoglio's new lawsuit and the Mass. State Police in trouble again. Then, with Nancy Guthrie still missing some are starting to question the investigation.  Visit the Howie Carr Radio Network website to access columns, podcasts, and other exclusive content.

Welcome to the Monday Night Talk podcast for February 9, 2026. The guest and topics for this podcast includes the The State House Report with State Senator John Keenan , as the Senator breaks down what's happening on Beacon Hill as the new year kicks off the second half of the session — from the latest on the Bettor Health Act, to Governor Healey's $63 billion dollar  FY2027 budget, plus updates on proposed cellphone bans in classrooms. NY Times Bestselling Author Casey Sherman previews an exclusive three-day literary & cinematic event at the Mandarin Oriental, Boston (February 27–March 1), bringing together bestselling authors, Hollywood insiders, aspiring novelists, screenwriters, and actors — and spilling some real-world secrets of success. Abington's own, Ian “The War Elephant” Barrett, joins the show ahead of his upcoming fight on Saturday, February 21 at MGM Music Hall at Fenway — training, mindset, and what fans can expect on fight night. Author and activist Jennifer Jones, the first African American Rockette, shares her powerful story of breaking barriers and surviving colorectal cancer. Monday Night Talk is proudly sponsored by Tiny & Sons Glass and Alcoholics Anonymous. Do you have a topic for a future show or info on an upcoming community event? Email us at mondaynighttalk@gmail.com If you're a fan of the show and enjoy our segments, you can either download your favorite segment from this site or subscribe to our podcasts through iTunes & Spotify today!  Monday Night Talk with Kevin Tocci, Copyright © 2026.     

Welcome to the Monday Night Talk podcast for February 9, 2026. The topics for The State House Report with State Senator John Keenan includes the Senator assessing what's happening on Beacon Hill as the new year kicks off the second half of the session — from the latest on the Bettor Health Act, to Governor Healey's $63 billion dollar  FY2027 budget, plus updates on proposed cellphone bans in classrooms.  Monday Night Talk is proudly sponsored by Tiny & Sons Glass and Alcoholics Anonymous. Do you have a topic for a future show or info on an upcoming community event? Email us at mondaynighttalk@gmail.com If you're a fan of the show and enjoy our segments, you can either download your favorite segment from this site or subscribe to our podcasts through iTunes & Spotify today!  Monday Night Talk with Kevin Tocci, Copyright © 2026.

Is it a National Park or a clerical error? In this episode of the Only in OK Show, Brett and Harley dive into the hilarious history of Guthrie's "smallest National Park" and explores the most charming small towns across the Sooner State. The Typo That Made History: Guthrie's Tiny Landmark Did you know Oklahoma is home to the smallest National Park landmark in the country? Well, technically. Located behind the Guthrie Post Office lies a 10x10 patch of land that exists solely because a city clerk in 1907 didn't double-check their math. Instead of a "100-foot square" plot (10,000 sq. ft.), the paperwork officially designated it as "100 square feet." Today, this "park" is a cult-favorite roadside attraction complete with: An unofficial "Park Ranger" (Stacey Frazier). A wrought iron fence and the historic Beacon Hill monument. "Don't Feed the Bears" signs—despite the only bears being located in nearby antique shops. Exploring the 10 Most Adorable Small Towns in Oklahoma After we "hike" through Guthrie, we zoom out to look at the soul of the state. Based on recent rankings from World Atlas, we break down the must-visit spots for your next Oklahoma road trip: The Scenic Superstars: Broken Bow's towering pines and Eufaula's massive shoreline. Healing Waters: The Arbuckle duo of Sulphur and Davis (don't forget the Arbuckle Mountain Fried Pies!). The Cobblestone Charm: Medicine Park, Oklahoma's first resort town. Star Power: Atoka (Reba's Place), Ada (Blake Shelton's stomping grounds), and Pawhuska (The Pioneer Woman & Osage Nation). Culture & History: Hands-on blacksmithing in Grove and the stunning fall foliage of Talihina.   Links & Resources Mentioned United States Smallest National Park Facebook Page World Atlas: 10 Most Adorable Small Towns in Oklahoma Follow us on Social Media: [Insert your links here] Enjoyed the show? If you visit any of these spots, tell them the Only in OK Show sent you!   #OnlyInOK #OklahomaHistory #SoonerState #OklahomaRoadTrip #ExploreOklahoma #OKPodcasts #TravelOK #OklahomaLife #GuthrieOK #SmallestNationalPark #RoadsideAttractions #TravelOddities #OklahomaHistory #GuthrieGhostWalk #HistoricGuthrie #ClericalError #SmallTownOklahoma #MedicinePark #BrokenBow #ArbuckleMountains #Pawhuska #BeaversBend #TurnerFalls #TalimenaDrive #RebasPlace #ChickasawNation #OsageNation #ArbuckleFriedPies #FriedPies #OklahomaTravel #SmallTownCharm #HiddenGems #OklahomaOutdoors

A record number of ballot questions are proposed this year, in a state where people on both ends of the political spectrum argue the Legislature gets little done.

Protestors and grassroots advocacy groups are coming together in Boston for a "Day of Action" on Beacon Hill. Border Czar Tom Homan says ICE and Customs & Border Patrol are working on a drawdown plan in Minnesota. Stay in "The Loop" with WBZ NewsRadioSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A proposal to tax recreation in the Franklin County town of Charlemont will be heard this week on Beacon Hill.

Beyond excited to welcome back Karen Winn—my fellow Boston gal—for her latest twisty, suspenseful thriller, The Society. Set in historic Beacon Hill, the novel follows two compelling leading ladies whose stories converge within a secret society where mystery and intrigue aren't just encouraged—they're required for membership.This is a book only Karen could write. A true Boston expert, she masterfully uses location and setting as characters themselves—even giving one of the story's key buildings its own voice. Smart, clever, and undeniably cool, The Societyis the kind of atmospheric thriller you'll want to devour on a moody winter night.Karen and I chatted all about sophomore writing, the fascinating research behind the book, and what she's working on next. We had an absolute blast celebrating this chilling, unforgettable read.

Send us a textIn today's episode, I'm chatting with Karen Winn. Karen is the author of two novels: The Society (Dutton, 2026), and Our Little World (Dutton, 2022). She earned her MFA from Fairleigh Dickinson University. For her undergraduate studies she attended the University of Pennsylvania, where she may or may not have belonged to a secret society. Writing is her first love and second career; she worked as a nurse for many years. Karen lives in the charming Beacon Hill neighborhood of Boston with her husband, two children, and their 100-pound Bernedoodle.  Karen and I chatted about all this things - including switching careers and how her nursing skill set translated into her novel writing. Her book flight includes books about secret society and outsider protagnoists who get access.Episode Highlights:Transitioning from nursing to fiction writing—and navigating a second career.How medical training shapes character development and emotional realism.Writing as a “secret identity” before stepping fully into the role of author.The influence of place and setting, especially Boston's Beacon Hill, on creativity.Exploring secret societies in fiction.Outsider protagonists who suddenly gain access to hidden worlds.Connect with Karen:InstagramFacebookWebsiteShow NotesSome links are affiliate links, which are no extra cost to you but do help to support the show.Books and authors mentioned in the episode:Lucy Foley booksAnne of Green Gables by L.M. MontgomeryThe Found Object Society by Michelle MarykBook FlightThe Cloisters by Katy HaysNinth House by Leigh BardugoThe Secret History by Donna TarttThe 2026 Bookish Flights Reading Challenge is here - a simple, nostalgic way to be intentional with your reading. One book per month, with options for individuals and families. Download it at https://www.bookishflights.com/read/2026readingchallengeSupport the showBe sure to join the Bookish Flights community on social media. Happy listening! Instagram Facebook Website

Charlie Harger and Manda Factor share their experience walking through Dr. Jose Rizal Park along Beacon Hill // Chris Sullivan with a Chokepoint: Looking at the revamp that the WSF system desperately needs // Leland Vittert on President Trump's first year in office and the push to control Greenland // Charlie Commentary on why teens need real discipline // Representative Mari Leavitt on the bills that she is sponsoring in the 2026 legislative session // David Fahrenthold on the President's first year in office and a push to control Greenland // Jake Goldstein-Street with a legislative update // Gee Scott on Zach Charbonnet's season ending injury

On today’s program, we speak with Skip Perham business of sports expert about the Patriots and the Celtics. We are also joined by Colin Young Deputy Editor of the State House News Service, to talk about the headlines on Beacon Hill. Doug Banks executive editor of the Boston Business Journal will be along to talk about the week’s business headlines in the region. And finally, Mike Marshall of Marshall Wealth Management offers advice for people making the decision to retire this year or next. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week Massachusetts state executive and Legislative budget officials are expected to release the consensus tax revenue estimate, a figure that is used in fiscal year 2027 budget proposals.

The Red Sox need a third baseman with spring training now just about a month away. A rally was held yesterday on Beacon Hill on the steps of the State House. One man arrested and another hospitalized after a fight breaks out in the crowd at yesterday's Bruins/Rangers game. Stay in "The Loop" with WBZ NewsRadio. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Besieged 1/6/25: UMass History Prof Kevin Young: Venezuela & war & UMass Amherst -- “Besieged From Without, Undermined from Within….” Sen Jo Comerford: the 2026 ballot questions. Congressman Seth Moulton: Trump's aggression & Congress' passivity. Sen Paul Mark: some good news from the Beacon Hill.

Besieged 1/6/25: UMass History Prof Kevin Young: Venezuela & war & UMass Amherst -- “Besieged From Without, Undermined from Within….” Sen Jo Comerford: the 2026 ballot questions. Congressman Seth Moulton: Trump's aggression & Congress' passivity. Sen Paul Mark: some good news from the Beacon Hill.

Besieged 1/6/25: UMass History Prof Kevin Young: Venezuela & war & UMass Amherst -- “Besieged From Without, Undermined from Within….” Sen Jo Comerford: the 2026 ballot questions. Congressman Seth Moulton: Trump's aggression & Congress' passivity. Sen Paul Mark: some good news from the Beacon Hill.

Besieged 1/6/25: UMass History Prof Kevin Young: Venezuela & war & UMass Amherst -- “Besieged From Without, Undermined from Within….” Sen Jo Comerford: the 2026 ballot questions. Congressman Seth Moulton: Trump's aggression & Congress' passivity. Sen Paul Mark: some good news from the Beacon Hill.

Tufts University's international affairs scholar Daniel Drezner on the United States' weekend invasion of Venezuela to depose its authoritarian leader, Nicolas Maduro. Tufts food policy analyst Corby Kummer forecasts 2026 food trends and how to stick to New Year's resolutions. Plus, he updates us on how the Trump administration's agriculture investments will impact farmers. Bioethicist Dr. Ezekiel Emanuel discusses his new book “Eat Your Ice Cream: Six Simple Rules for a Long and Healthy Life.”There are more lawmakers of color than ever on Beacon Hill. But the legislature still remains disproportionately white. We talk to Mass League of Community Health Center's Michael Curry about that, and what a boost in rural health system federal funding could mean for western Mass.

A plot line that was developing a year ago, overshadowed 2025 by a long shot: President Donald Trump's arrival and its impact on Beacon Hill.

Fenway concession workers ratified a new contract deal, Dedham Christmas Eve fire victim identified as a Syracuse University senior, and new push to legalize magic mushrooms on Beacon Hill. Stay in "The Loop" with WBZ NewsRadio.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The number crunchers on Beacon Hill began the state budgeting process. The consensus revenue hearing determined cautious growth is ahead in Massachusetts.

Welcome to the Monday Night Talk podcast for December 15, 2025. This segment features the State House Report with State Representative Kathy LaNatra who provides the latest updates from Beacon Hill as well as a legislative year in review.  Monday Night Talk is proudly sponsored by Tiny & Sons Glass and Alcoholics Anonymous. Do you have a topic for a future show or info on an upcoming community event? Email us at mondaynighttalk@gmail.com If you're a fan of the show and enjoy our segments, you can either download your favorite segment from this site or subscribe to our podcasts through iTunes & Spotify today!  Monday Night Talk with Kevin Tocci, Copyright © 2025.

Welcome to the Monday Night Talk podcast for December 15, 2025. The guest and topics for this podcast includes the State House Report with State Representative Kathy LaNatra who provides the latest updates from Beacon Hill as well as a legislative year in review. Kathy Morris from The Action Network breaks down a national study on lying. Jannelle Cioffi, co-founder of a regional girls hockey league (Grades 7–12), discusses creating the new league which is now recruiting players. Amy Barrett, Director of the Abington Council on Aging, along with Cheryl Ames and Robin Lirosi, stop by the show to share winter programs, resources, and assistance. Monday Night Talk is proudly sponsored by Tiny & Sons Glass and Alcoholics Anonymous. Do you have a topic for a future show or info on an upcoming community event? Email us at mondaynighttalk@gmail.com If you're a fan of the show and enjoy our segments, you can either download your favorite segment from this site or subscribe to our podcasts through iTunes & Spotify today!  Monday Night Talk with Kevin Tocci, Copyright © 2025.

Lawmakers will peer into the future and guess how much tax revenue Massachusetts can reliably count on to support state spending beginning six months from now and running through June 2027.

Welcome to Monday Night Talk podcast for November 17, 2025! The guest and topics for this podcast is the State House Report with State Senator Dylan Fernandes, as we break down the latest from Beacon Hill, including the Holtec ruling, the passage of S.2696 — An Act Regarding Free Expression, updates on the data privacy bill, and where things stand with efforts to replace the Cape Cod bridges. Donnie Westhaver, CEO & Founder, Whitman Area Toy Drive, joins us as the organization enters its 25th year, sharing how the community can support this season's efforts and what to expect at the Stuff an Ambulance & Cruiser event on December 2nd. Geoff Diehl, Former State Representative & State Committeeman, offers his perspective on the current political landscape, both here in Massachusetts and across the country. Michael Neagle, Author of Chasing Bandits: America's Long War on Terror, talks about his new book and discuss how America's complex history with unconventional warfare stretches back more than a century. Monday Night Talk is proudly sponsored by Tiny & Sons Glass and Alcoholics Anonymous. Do you have a topic for a future show or info on an upcoming community event? Email us at mondaynighttalk@gmail.com If you're a fan of the show and enjoy our segments, you can either download your favorite segment from this site or subscribe to our podcasts through iTunes & Spotify today!  Monday Night Talk with Kevin Tocci, Copyright © 2025.    

Welcome to Monday Night Talk podcast for November 17, 2025! The guest and topics for this podcast is the State House Report with State Senator Dylan Fernandes, as we break down the latest from Beacon Hill, including the Holtec ruling, the passage of S.2696 — An Act Regarding Free Expression, updates on the data privacy bill, and where things stand with efforts to replace the Cape Cod bridges.  Monday Night Talk is proudly sponsored by Tiny & Sons Glass and Alcoholics Anonymous. Do you have a topic for a future show or info on an upcoming community event? Email us at mondaynighttalk@gmail.com If you're a fan of the show and enjoy our segments, you can either download your favorite segment from this site or subscribe to our podcasts through iTunes & Spotify today!  Monday Night Talk with Kevin Tocci, Copyright © 2025.

Boston Mayor Michelle Wu and State Senator Nick Collins continue to butt heads over Wu’s tax shift plan, which would shift the property tax burden from homeowners to commercial property owners. With residential property taxes expected to rise 13% next month, Wu is urging approval from Beacon Hill. Senator Collins outlines that Wu’s plan will burden the city’s economy by putting an increased strain on commercial developers who are already struggling to fill office spaces. Senator Collins checked in with Dan to discuss.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WBZ NewsRadio's Amanda Keane has more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of The Codcast, CommonWealth Beacon reporters Jennifer Smith and Chris Lisinski check in as Beacon Hill heads into its winter break. Chris looks back at the end of year lawmaking hustle, and what was left for 2026, then turns to a possibly record-smashing number of ballot questions that could land before voters next November.

Beacon Hill moved several policy priorities forward in mid-November, but most bills weren't finalized, leaving much of the work for next year.

I sit down with Victor and Elizabeth to talk about their cool wine bar in the Beacon Hill neighborhood of San Antonio Texas.We discuss their journey to the San Antonio AreaWe talk about their vision for the community they serve and why hospitality is the core value of their business model.We discuss the acquisition of the Noblemen Wine Brand out of Kerrville TexasVictor and Elizabeth let the " wine shine" with a discussion about their huge Vintners Cup accomplishment. And they also reveal a new expansion project that will keep the momentum going for their exceptional Texas wine brand. Find out more about Copper Rose Wine Bar and Noblemen wines at copperrosewine.com and noblemenwines.com.

Megan Singleton's travelling through the US, and she spent some time in Boston before heading to New York. She started off in the historic Beacon Hill neighbourhood before moving down to the up and coming Seaport District, and she shared her highlights from both areas. Read more about Megan's experience here. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today:Brandon Cardet Hernandez, member of the Boston Public School Committee, discusses the literacy bill making its way through Beacon Hill, bell-to-bell phone bans in schools, and getting rid of the MCAS as a graduation requirement.Then economic scholar Chuck Collins discusses his latest book: Burned by Billionaires: How Concentrated Wealth and Power are Ruining Our Lives and Planet. 

NBC Sports Boston's Trenni Casey discusses the fall of Bill Belichick.Food policy analyst Corby Kummer discusses the closure of the Urban Grape amid financial strugglesBoston Globe business columnist Shirley Leung discusses the battle on Beacon Hill over a proposal to raise taxes on offshore corporate income; and the local impacts of the government shutdown and Trump's tariffsCNN's John King discusses Trump's statements on the insurrection act, as cities prep for another round of No Kings rallies this weekend.

Two candidates are running to represent Southeast Seattle, including Beacon Hill, the Chinatown-International District, Columbia City, and Rainier Beach. The District 2 seat was left vacant earlier this year when former City Councilmember Tammy Morales left the role. It’s being temporarily filled by Interim Councilmember Mark Solomon, but he’s going to step aside once voters decide which candidate they want to represent their community. The current candidates for District 2 are campaigning on platforms that prioritize key issues, like gun violence, housing and homelessness. We'll dig into the ways they differ so you can make an informed decision when you reach for your ballots. Guests: Adonis Ducksworth, the communications and policy advisor at the Seattle Department of Transportation Eddie Lin, an assistant attorney for the Seattle City Attorney’s office Thank you to the supporters of KUOW, you help make this show possible! If you want to help out, go to kuow.org/donate/soundsidenotes Soundside is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us a textA rainy Boston morning set the scene, but the real weather shift happens in the story: an English major boards her first commercial flight to Alaska at 19, discovers how far a duffel and a daring heart can go, and eventually returns to writing through the heat of a private kitchen. We trace Melanie's winding path from private chef to freelance food-and-travel journalist, and how curiosity—not credentials—became the map legend for every bold turn.We dig into the messy art of pitching that school didn't teach well enough, why perfection slowed her down, and how a personal touch can cut through a crowded inbox. Then the narrative dives—literally—into the Galápagos, where a sea lion taught her the power of attention and play, and resurfaces in Iceland with fermented shark, sheep-dung–smoked whiskey, and the kind of hospitality that sticks. Along the way, we unpack travel trends with substance: detours that counter overtourism without diluting wonder, a resurgence of first-person narratives that invite empathy, and multigenerational trips that strengthen family bonds through shared discovery.Closer to home, Melanie opens a notebook of Boston recommendations that skip the obvious, from a lingering tapa night in the Seaport to a moody Beacon Hill hideaway, thermal cycling sessions in Revere, Mass Audubon's overlooked greenways, and a Woburn spot hosting a chestnut festival and a $22 three-course lunch. She shares what she seeks on hosted trips, why perseverance is the freelancer's quiet superpower, and the one dream that keeps resurfacing: flying a fighter jet. If you care about travel that feels honest, food that carries culture and pitching that respects people, you'll find tools, stories and surprises you can use. Enjoy the journey, then tap follow, share with a curious friend, and leave a quick review to help more listeners find us.Connect with Melanie at LinkedIN, Instagram or website. 

In this week’s episode of Political Contessa, Jennifer welcomes Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn. Ed has represented District 2 since 2018 and previously served as City Council President from January 2022 to January 2024, acting as the "backup mayor" when the mayor is unavailable. As part of a historic Boston political family, Ed is the son of former mayor Raymond Flynn and has dedicated much of his career to public service, including more than 20 years in the US Navy. Known for his advocacy on safety, fiscal responsibility, and quality-of-life issues, Ed is widely respected for his tenacity, focus on local concerns, and steadfast commitment to Boston neighborhoods. Jennifer and Ed dive into the seismic shift on the Boston City Council, examining the transition from moderate to more radical approaches and their impact on key city issues. This episode highlights Ed Flynn's outspoken critiques of council priorities, including the neglect of local public safety, rising property taxes, and lawless city streets, in favor of national and international causes. Ed calls out open drug use, lawlessness in bike and scooter transit, challenges with affordable housing, and contentious regulations that drive away developers. The discussion also covers the dangers facing city residents, including alarming incidents in neighborhoods such as Beacon Hill and the Boston Common, as well as ongoing battles over support for the Boston Police Department. Throughout, controversial topics surface, including resistance from council colleagues to enforce basic laws and the struggle to refocus attention on the core responsibilities of city government. "Boston is like the wild, wild west; we just can't allow anyone to do what they want to do in the city just because they feel like it." ~Ed Flynn This week on Political Contessa: The transformation of the Boston City Council from moderate to radical ideology Neglect of neighborhood services, safety, and infrastructure in favor of national issues Escalating open drug use and distribution of over 80,000 needles monthly Public safety crises, including lawlessness, human trafficking, and frequent break-ins Declining support for and staffing of the Boston Police Department Impact of increased property taxes and regulatory challenges on housing and affordability Unregulated bike lanes and scooter use are worsening city safety and public frustration Persistent calls from Ed Flynn and allies for a return to local, constituent-focused governance Connect with Ed Flynn: XCity Councilor Ed Flynn Official PageEd for Boston Official Campaign Website Awaken Your Inner Political Contessa Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Political Contessa. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Spotify I Stitcher I Apple Podcasts I iHeart Radio I TuneIn Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media. And if you’ve ever considered running for office – or know a woman who should – head over to politicalcontessa.com to grab my quick guide, Secrets from the Campaign Trail. It will show you five signs to tell you you’re ready to enter the political arena.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A naked man has appeared on Beacon hill, and the left keeps ratcheting up the rhetoric on ICE.  Visit the Howie Carr Radio Network website to access columns, podcasts, and other exclusive content.

Boston Police investigate an officer involved shooting in Beacon Hill, gunshots fired at an ICE facility in Dallas, and a new era for the Bill Russell Bridge. Stay in "The Loop" with WBZ NewsRadio.

WBZ NewsRadio's Drew Moholland reports.

WBZ NewsRadio's Chaiel Schaffel reports.

Today on the podcast, Tina Brock drops in to talk about the IRC FringeArts offering, Painting Churches by Tina Howe. On Stage at Theatre Exile through September 21st. Here is my interview with Tina Brock for Painting Churches.Described as “... beautifully written... a theatrical family portrait that has the shimmer and depth of Renoir portraits... ” by The New York Times, Tina Howe's 1984 Pulitzer Prize-nominated play is a provocative exploration of the parent-child relationship, art and aging. The IRC production features Kirsten Quinn as Mags Church, the successful artist and daughter of Fanny and Gardner Church, who returns home with a life-changing announcement to the chaos of her parent's impending move from their lifelong home in Boston's Beacon Hill. John Zak plays Gardner Church, a Pulitzer Prize-winning poet facing dementia after a lifetime devoted to intellectual and creative pursuits. Tina Ann Brock plays Fanny Church, Gardner's wife and Mags' quirky mother, who has a penchant for ostentatious hats and criticizing her daughter's choices in life. The trio explores their changing dynamic relationship over the span of several days.Painting Churches production designers include Set Designer Dirk Durossette; Sound Designer Andrew Nelson, Lighting Designer Eric Baker, Projection/Media Designer Mark Williams, and IRC resident Costume Designer Erica Hoelscher/IRC Producing Artistic Associate. Megan Coyle is the Stage Manager. Tina Ann Brock, IRC's Producing Artistic Director, and Peggy Mecham of the Irish Heritage Theatre, direct.FOR TICKETS AND INFORMATION: https://phillyfringe.org/events/painting-churches-by-tina-howe/

We toast fregola - Italian pasta pearls with a nutty bite // Celebrate the height of Washington sweet corn season // Gear up for a Labor Day cookout // Dylan Joffe, owner of Little Thing on Beacon Hill, shares the charm of independent wine shops and thoughtfully curated bottles // We delve into savory Italian pastries with chef Bridget Charters // The Hot Stove Society Tasting Panel churns through a delicious debate: butter // And of course, we’ll wrap up today’s show with Food for Thought: Tasty Trivia!

With another Mayor Wu having another employee getting into legal issues, people are questioning what are the hiring procedures on Beacon Hill.  Visit the Howie Carr Radio Network website to access columns, podcasts, and other exclusive content.

In this week's Beacon Hill in 5, a look at the proposed data center in Westfield that will cost about $4 million.

The Decatur City Commission recently approved a resolution from the Beacon Hill Black Alliance for Human Rights to establish the Decatur Reparations Task Force. The newly formed 11-member group, recommended by the Beacon Hill Black Alliance for Human Rights, is comprised of Beacon Hill legacy residents, historians, legal experts, a youth representative and more. Over the next three years, the task force will host public listening sessions, interview Beacon Hill descendants, conduct research, examine economic displacement, as well as identify past and present legalized discrimination. On Tuesday’s edition of “Closer Look,” host Rose Scott talks with civil rights attorney Mawuli Davis, a founding partner of the Davis Bozeman Johnson Law Firm and co-chair of the Beacon Hill Reparations effort, Wanda Sims Waters, a Beacon Hill legacy resident and a member of the Decatur Reparations Task Force, and her husband, Swain Waters. The guests talked more about the priorities of the task force, the history of the Beacon Hill community and why they feel reparations aren’t just a financial payout. Scott also took calls from listeners who shared their thoughts about reparations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Despite Beacon Hill being quiet, a number of ballot questions have cleared the first hurdle towards getting onto the Massachusetts ballot.

In this week’s episode of Political Contessa, Jennifer welcomes Mike Kennealy, Republican candidate for Governor of Massachusetts. Mike is a lifelong Massachusetts resident, business leader, and father. With nearly two decades of experience in private equity and twelve years devoted to public service, Mike's impressive career includes serving in Governor Baker’s cabinet as Secretary of Housing and Economic Development, as well as turning around the Lawrence Public Schools. Mike has also served as finance chair of the Massachusetts Republican Party and worked with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston to improve outcomes for youth in some of the state’s most underserved communities. Jennifer and Mike dive into the realities of political leadership in Massachusetts, highlighting what makes New England Republicans unique and contending with the state’s overwhelming Democratic dominance. Mike shares his vision for achieving equal opportunity across Massachusetts, shining a light on entrenched achievement and life expectancy gaps between communities just miles apart. They discuss controversial topics, including the state’s multi-billion dollar migrant crisis, leadership shortcomings in the current administration, and the failure to address root causes of inequity despite progressive rhetoric. Mike contrasts his “coalition-builder” approach with what he sees as Beacon Hill's passivity, emphasizing the urgent need to listen, innovate, and act on behalf of all residents. The conversation challenges sound bite politics and calls for real solutions to ensure Massachusetts isn’t just number one in averages, but in opportunities for every community. “I made a conscious decision when I was 45 that I was going to leave the business world behind and dedicate the rest of my days professionally to public service here in Massachusetts.” ~ Mike Kennealy This week on Political Contessa: The unique identity and priorities of New England Republicans The critical achievement and life expectancy gaps between different Massachusetts communities Mike’s leadership experiences: from private equity to turning around Lawrence Public Schools Failures of the current state leadership to address the crisis and seize the opportunity How Massachusetts loses young people due to unaffordable costs and limited opportunities The state’s costly response to the migrant crisis and its impact on local communities Initiatives to ensure equal educational and workforce opportunities for all residents The importance of coalition-building and listening across party lines Connect with Mike Kennealy: Campaign Website Awaken Your Inner Political Contessa Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Political Contessa. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Spotify I Stitcher I Apple Podcasts I iHeart Radio I TuneIn I Google Podcasts Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media. And if you’ve ever considered running for office – or know a woman who should – head over to politicalcontessa.com to grab my quick guide, Secrets from the Campaign Trail. It will show you five signs to tell you you’re ready to enter the political arena.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.