Podcasts about connecticut mirror

Host Paul Pacelli kicked off Tuesday's edition of "Connecticut Today" with his thoughts on a Connecticut Mirror op-ed posted by Democratic State Senate leaders, reacting to recent statements from a GOP State Senate member (00:45), while State Senate GOP Leader Steve Harding offered his thoughts on that Democratic op-ed as well (14:52). Yankee Institute blogger Meghan Portfolio offered her latest breakdown of state finances (20:24), while CBS News correspondent Allison Keyes had the latest on a rumored internal push by Connecticut Sen. Chris Murphy to become the next Senate Democratic leader in Washington, D.C. (30:56) Image Credit: iStock / Getty Images Plus

Is there some thing that EVERYBODY seems to like that you’re just not that into? Star Wars? Game of Thrones? Seinfeld? The Beach Boys? Christopher Nolan? … Taylor Swift? Or what about some very current thing that seemingly everybody thinks is so interesting and cutting edge and exciting, but you just don’t like it? (For Colin, that very current thing is The Bear on TV.) What do you do when that happens? How do you feel about it? Embarrassed? Wrong? Defiant? This hour, a look at not liking all the things you’re “supposed” to like. GUESTS: John Dankosky: Director of news and audio for Science Friday, event and podcast host for The Connecticut Mirror, and co-owner of Lam Yoga in New Hartford, Connecticut David Edelstein: America’s Greatest Living Film Critic Irene Papoulis: Teaches writing at Trinity College, and she’s the author of The Essays Only You Can Write Gene Seymour: A “writer, professional spectator, pop-culture maven, and jazz geek” Lindsay Lee Wallace: Writes about culture, health care and health equity, and other stuff, too The Colin McEnroe Show is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode! Subscribe to The Noseletter, an email compendium of merriment, secrets, and ancient wisdom brought to you by The Colin McEnroe Show. Join the conversation on Facebook and Twitter. Colin McEnroe and Dylan Reyes contributed to this show, which originally aired on September 20, 2024.Support the show: http://www.wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Election Day is here! Aside from choosing a president, voters will decide on local and statewide offices, as well as a few ballot measures this year. Dry conditions continue to impact our region. Plus, a Connecticut Mirror poll finds immigration is a concern for many Connecticut voters.

Host Paul Pacelli opened Wednesday's "Connecticut Today" highlighting a Connecticut Mirror story about a recent special needs high school graduate who couldn't read or write (00:33). Hearst Connecticut Media columnist and senior editor Dan Haar talked about his current project, speaking with more state voters (06:51), while CBS News correspondent Alli Novello joined us from Pennsylvania on the White House campaign trail (13:21) Image Credit: iStock / Getty Images Plus

Is there some thing that EVERYBODY seems to like that you're just not that into? Star Wars? Game of Thrones? Seinfeld? The Beach Boys? Christopher Nolan? … Taylor Swift? Or what about some very current thing that seemingly everybody thinks is so interesting and cutting edge and exciting, but you just don't like it? (For Colin, that very current thing is The Bear on TV.) What do you do when that happens? How do you feel about it? Embarrassed? Wrong? Defiant? This hour, a look at not liking all the things you're “supposed” to like. GUESTS: John Dankosky: Director of news and audio for Science Friday, event and podcast host for The Connecticut Mirror, and co-owner of Lam Yoga in New Hartford, Connecticut David Edelstein: America's Greatest Living Film Critic Irene Papoulis: Teaches writing at Trinity College, and she's the author of The Essays Only You Can Write Gene Seymour: A “writer, professional spectator, pop-culture maven, and jazz geek” Lindsay Lee Wallace: Writes about culture, health care and health equity, and other stuff, too Support the show: http://www.wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday's "Connecticut Today" with host Paul Pacelli featured a chat with Fairfield/Southport Democratic State Rep. Jennifer Leeper on the current electric utility controversy in the state, and her recent op-ed in the Connecticut Mirror (00:30). Former Bridgeport Democratic State Rep. Chris Caruso stopped by with his weekly update, focusing on the just-completed Democratic National Convention in Chicago and the continuing controversy surrounding the Success Village co-op (12:36) Image Credit: iStock / Getty Images Plus

Education budget cuts from this legislative session are slamming schools at all levels, from early education to higher education. This hour, we hear from Connecticut Mirror budget reporter Keith Phaneuf, and education reporter Jessika Harkay. Plus, we check in with the Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents, and Chancellor of the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities system Terrence Cheng. GUESTS: Keith Phaneuf: Budget Reporter, Connecticut Mirror Jessika Harkay: Education Reporter, Connecticut Mirror Fran Rabinowitz: Executive Director, Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents Terrence Cheng: Chancellor, Connecticut State Colleges and Universities Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Environmental Protection Agency has finalized the first-ever federal limits on a class of chemicals known as PFAS, or "forever chemicals," in drinking water. This hour, we discuss what these enforceable limits mean for how Connecticut monitors and regulates PFAS. Department of Public Health Commissioner Manisha Juthani joins us, plus Connecticut Mirror investigative reporter Andrew Brown. Plus, Attorney General William Tong gives an update on the lawsuits he filed against chemical manufacturers of PFAS. GUESTS: William Tong: Connecticut Attorney General Dr. Manisha Juthani: Commissioner, Connecticut Department of Public Health Andrew Brown: Investigative Reporter, Connecticut Mirror Cat Pastor contributed to this episode which originally aired April 22.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Environmental Protection Agency has finalized the first-ever federal limits on a class of chemicalled known as PFAS, or "forever chemicals," in drinking water. This hour, we discuss what these enforceable limits mean for how Connecticut monitors and regulates PFAS. Department of Public Health Commissioner Manisha Juthani joins us, plus Connecticut Mirror investigative reporter Andrew Brown. Plus, Attorney General William Tong touches on the lawsuits he filed against chemical manufacturers of PFAS. GUESTS: William Tong: Connecticut Attorney General Dr. Manisha Juthani: Commissioner, Connecticut Department of Public Health Andrew Brown: Investigative Reporter, Connecticut Mirror Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dune: Part Two is the third film adaptation of Frank Herbert's 1965 novel. It is the second part of Denis Villeneuve's adaptation and the first of his Dune films released exclusively in theaters. It has grossed $204 million in its first week at the worldwide box office, making it the highest grossing American movie of 2024 so far. Dune: Part Two stars an ensemble cast that includes Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Austin Butler, Florence Pugh, Stellan Skarsgård, Charlotte Rampling, Javier Bardem, and … Christopher Walken? And: The Greatest Night in Pop is a Netflix documentary about the recording of “We Are the World.” It features new interviews with Sheila E., Cyndi Lauper, Huey Lewis, Kenny Loggins, Lionel Richie, Smokey Robinson, Bruce Springsteen, and Dionne Warwick. GUESTS: Jim Chapdelaine: An Emmy-winning musician and a patient advocate for people with rare cancers John Dankosky: Director of news and audio for Science Friday, event and podcast host for The Connecticut Mirror, and co-owner of Lam Yoga in New Hartford, Connecticut Irene Papoulis: Teaches writing at Trinity College and she's the author of The Essays Only You Can Write Pedro Soto: President and CEO of Hygrade Precision Technologies The Colin McEnroe Show is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode! Subscribe to The Noseletter, an email compendium of merriment, secrets, and ancient wisdom brought to you by The Colin McEnroe Show. Join the conversation on Facebook and Twitter. Colin McEnroe and Cat Pastor contributed to this show.Support the show: http://www.wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This hour, photo and video journalist Yehyun Kim joins us to discuss A Diaspora in Focus, a three-part project she launched for the Connecticut Mirror in 2023. The project was in response to landmark legislation passed in the state that will require public schools to offer Asian American and Pacific Islander, or AAPI, history. Yehyun interviewed and photographed one resident from each of the 21 Asian ethnicities as defined by the U.S. Census Bureau, and this included our very own Catherine Shen. This hour, she joins us to discuss this moving series for the Connecticut Mirror. As Yehyun explained, "It would be impossible for any single project to capture the totality of the Asian American experience in the state. But, when woven together, the lives of the people represented here provide a glimpse into the richness and diversity of Connecticut's Asian residents." Jenny Heikkila Díaz, or JHD, also joins us, to discuss their role in the photo project, as well as the state's AAPI curriculum development. GUESTS: Yehyun Kim: Freelance Photo and Video Journalist Jennifer Heikkila Díaz (JHD): Professional Development Coordinator, Connecticut Council for the Social Studies; Activist-in-Residence, UConn Asian and Asian American Studies Institute; Co-Chair, Asian Pacific American Coalition of CT; Co-Founder, aapiNHV; Steering Committee Member, Anti-Racist Teaching & Learning Collective Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

2023 was the sixth rainiest year on record for Connecticut, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. In July alone, more than 1,500 acres of Connecticut farmland flooded over, representing $21 million in lost sales revenue. This hour, we hear from Chris Bassette of Killam & Bassette Farmstead in South Glastonbury, who says she is still holding out hope for relief for the nearly half-a-million dollars in losses she logged from July's floods. We also get an update from State Department of Agriculture Commissioner Bryan Hurlburt. Plus, the Hartford Flood Compensation Program is aimed at providing some short-term relief to residents who have been dealing with systemic flooding and sewage problems. State Comptroller Sean Scanlon is overseeing the program, and discusses the efforts to focus these funds on the North End of the Capital City. Sharon Lewis is the Executive Director of the CT Coalition for Environmental Justice. Her North End home has been uninhabitable for over a year due to flooding and sewage in her basement and first floor. She joins us, along with Connecticut Mirror investigative reporter Dave Altimari. GUESTS: Christine Bassette: Owner-Operator, Killam & Bassette Farmstead Bryan Hurlburt: Commissioner, Connecticut Department of Agriculture Dave Altimari: Investigative Reporter, Connecticut Mirror Sharon Lewis: Executive Director, CT Coalition for Environmental Justice; North End Resident Sean Scanlon: Connecticut State Comptroller Bridgitte Prince: Human and Environmental Rights Activist James Chow: Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Division Deputy Director, Environmental Protection Agency Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Investigative Reporter with the Connecticut Mirror gives us an update on the Bridgeport ballot scandal. 

Join us for an eye-opening interview as we delve into the world of advertising with acclaimed author Mark Robinson. In this captivating conversation, Mark exposes the hidden underbelly of Madison Avenue, shedding light on the dark side of the industry. Discover the shocking truths, the systemic racism, and the untold stories behind the glossy façade. Gain valuable insights as Mark shares his in-depth research and compelling narratives that challenge the status quo. Brace yourself for a thought-provoking exploration into the complex world of advertising and the urgent need for change. Don't miss this chance to uncover the truth behind the glamour, with Mark Robinson as your guide Mark Robinson is a seasoned advertising professional with over 40 years of experience at prestigious agencies. His expertise has earned him recognition in publications like Fortune, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and Advertising Age. Mark's impressive career highlights include co-founding and managing Spike/DDB, an agency in partnership with filmmaker Spike Lee. He also launched Heritage Apparel, an online clothing company celebrating African American history and heroes. Mark's entrepreneurial ventures continued with the successful establishment of S/R Communications Alliance, a network of 10 multicultural advertising companies generating $225 million in combined business. Throughout his career, Mark has made significant contributions to the industry. He has served on the American Advertising Federation's Multicultural Marketing Leadership Council and as a lecturer for the Advertising Educational Foundation. He has also been an influential mentor for the American Association of Advertising Agencies' Minority Advertising Internship Program (MAIP). Mark's commitment to community service and multicultural education has garnered recognition. He was nominated for the 1994 Connecticut Human Rights Award and appointed to the State's Martin Luther King Commission in 2000. In 2009, he received the Martin Luther King Leadership Award from the State of Connecticut. Based in Connecticut, Mark is a sought-after strategist and advisor, working with clients that include political campaigns and community organizations. He also serves on the board of directors of The Connecticut Mirror newspaper. Connect w/ Mark: Website: https://www.blackonmadisonavenue.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-robinson-8326a64/ Connect w/ Eric Elliott: Website: https://ericelliott.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ericelliottspeaker LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamericelliott/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericmelliott/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/EricMElliott Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ericmelliott Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/57h1TKWmvENS9QhBPDkXdl?si=d562cf19a14b43fe Text: 843-279-5843 Brought to you by VIP Marketing. VIP Marketing is a digital advertising agency based in Charleston, SC. Our mission is to separate our clients from the crowd. We commit to serve and deliver their marketing and creative needs on time and within scope. So then, our goal is to partner with businesses to market to the right people, capture their attention. In brief, we get results with premium video production, social media marketing, graphic design, media planning, and media buying. Ultimately, we believe every business deserves Very Important Placement. Visit www.vipmarketing.com to learn more. Call: 843-760-0707 Message: www.facebook.com/VIPMarketingUSA

Voting Options & Poll Worker Protection Laws Move Forward in Delaware, Connecticut & OklahomaGet the American Democracy Minute Radio Report sent directly to your email box. Sign up here!Today's Script:  (Variations occur with audio due to editing for time) Today's Links now below the scriptYou're listening to the American Democracy Minute, keeping YOUR government by and for the people.We have three pro-Democracy stories out of Delaware, Connecticut and Oklahoma today, two proposing to expand voting options, and one just signed to protect poll workers from intimidation.First to Delaware, which last year passed a law to implement no-excuse absentee mail-in voting, only to have its state supreme court strike it down as unconstitutional.  Delaware Public Media reports that Senate Bill 3 proposes to change the state constitution to remove currently required excuses for use of absentee voting.  S3 passed the state senate and now moves to a house committee. Connecticut is well on its way to expanding in-person early voting.  One of only four states not offering some form of early voting, the Connecticut Mirror reports bipartisan bill HB-5004 would add 14 days of early in-person voting for general elections, seven days for state and local primaries, and four days for special elections and Presidential primaries.  It's expected to pass the Senate and be signed by Gov. Ned Lamont.Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt signed SB 481 May 1st, making it a misdemeanor to threaten, intimidate or harass election workers, or to release their personal information.  Doing so is punishable by up to six months in jail and up to a $1,000 fine.  The bill also makes impersonating an election official subject to the same penalties.We have links to the bills, articles, and groups taking action at AmericanDemocracyMinute.org.  I'm Brian Beihl.Today's LinksArticles & Resources:Delaware Legislature -  Bill Information for S 3Delaware Public Media - Delaware Senate passes first leg of constitutional amendment to allow no-excuse absentee voting Connecticut Legislature - Bill Information for HB 5004 Connecticut Mirror - House passes bill to bring early voting to ConnecticutOklahoma Legislature -  Bill Information for SB 481The Oklahoman - Election Board head praises Senate Bill 481 to protect Oklahoma election officials Groups Taking Action:Delaware Voting Rights Coalition,  League of Women Voters DE, Common Cause CT, Connecticut Citizen Action Group, Common Cause OK, League of Women Voters OKPlease follow us on Facebook and Twitter and SHARE!  Find all of our reports at AmericanDemocracyMinute.orgGet ADM Radio Report email!  Sign up here!#Democracy  #DemocracyNews

The news media and journalists themselves are faced with a crisis of confidence and trust. The internet broke the old business model of locally-based newspaper reporting and replaced it with national opinion journalism written by and for well-educated metropolitan elites. Our guest is Nikki Usher, Associate Professor at the University of San Diego, who studies journalism, politics, tech, and power. Nikki's recent book is "News For The Rich, White and Blue: How Place and Power Distort American Journalism".In our conversation we look at the loss of place in American journalism, the gap between "news haves and have-nots", and how technology can be used to challenge old journalistic models and lead to new ways of delivering news to audiences that have been poorly served in the past.For decades the polling firm Gallup has been asking Americans: "How much confidence and trust do you have in the news media?" In the 1970's more than two-thirds of the public said they had a great deal or a fair amount of confidence. Today, the proportion is down to one-third. Most Americans distrust what they read, see, or hear from news outlets. A minuscule 7% of Americans have "a great deal" of trust and confidence in the media.We ask how do we fix it? and how journalists can gain a better understanding of why so many readers, viewers, and listeners believe that they tell lies or simply don't care about the truth.In this episode, we hear about efforts by The Los Angeles Times and Philadelphia Inquirer to reassess their roles in the community. We also learn about growing non-profit regional news organizations such as The Voice of San Diego and the Connecticut Mirror. Jim and Richard also discuss the work of the online platform Substack. Recommendation: Richard enjoys listening to the podcast series, "Rumble Strip", produced and hosted by Erica Heilman. This extraordinary show was profiled in The New Yorker and won a 2021 Peabody Award for the episode, "Finn and The Bell". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Connecticut is in the midst of a housing crisis. About 34 percent of residents are paying more than a third of their income to housing costs. That's according to the Connecticut Mirror. From subsidizing construction to studying rent stabilization, lawmakers are currently figuring out how to best address the state's housing crisis. Rent caps were one of the many housing-related policies being debated at the state capitol this session. But just last week, the state legislature's Housing Committee decided not to bring the rent cap bill forward for a committee vote. That's despite a report from affordable housing advocates that says 72 percent of Connecticut voters expressing support for rent caps. This hour, we check in on housing reform in the state. Plus, lawmakers are also taking up the issue of birth control access this session. We get the latest on legislation that would allow pharmacists to prescribe birth control. GUESTS: Ginny Monk: Children's Issues and Housing Reporter, Connecticut Mirror Jacqueline Rabe Thomas: Investigative Reporter, Hearst CT Media Luis Quintero: Assistant Professor, Johns Hopkins University Christine Stuart: Editor-in-Chief, CT News Junkie Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the first time under a new law, the state's budget is required to justify how spending would help reduce socioeconomic and racial inequities where we live. The budget law was passed last spring, calling for a quote "explanation of how provisions further the governor's efforts to ensure equity in the state," helping to "identify and remedy past and present patterns of discrimination." According to the Economic Policy Institute, "Connecticut ranks #3 of the 50 states in income inequality." The United Way of Connecticut projects the basic "survival budget" for a family of four exceeds $90,000 per year, reports Keith Phaneuf, the Connecticut Mirror's budget reporter. Even prior to the pandemic, the organization projected 38% of Connecticut residents were living paycheck-to-paycheck, or falling behind, Phaneuf writes. So how did Governor Lamont's $50.5 billion budget meet this new mandate? And what's missing? This hour, we examine where critical items like housing, health care and higher-education come in. GUESTS: Lisa Hagen: Federal Policy Reporter, Connecticut Mirror Dan Haar: Associate Editor, Hearst Connecticut Media Jonathan Wharton: Professor of Political Science at Southern Connecticut State University; Associate Dean at the School of Graduate and Professional Studies Ginny Monk: Children's Issues and Housing Reporter, Connecticut Mirror Jennifer Ludden: National Correspondent, NPR Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of the biggest focuses for the 2023 legislative session is housing. Rent has gone up for many Connecticut residents at a time when inflation limits what they can afford to pay. They face a lack of affordable housing in Connecticut – and eviction. Today, we talk about the housing market in our state, and what legislative action we might see in the future. We hear from those covering housing across our state including Jacqueline Rabe Thomas of Hearst Media and Ginny Monk from the Connecticut Mirror. Advocates are calling for rent caps and better protections against evictions, as well as more low income housing for residents of a variety of economic backgrounds and circumstances. Are you seeing enough affordable housing where you live? GUESTS: Ginny Monk: Children's issues and Housing Reporter for the CT Mirror Jacqui Rabe Thomas: Investigative Reporter for Hearst Media Christine Stuart: Editor-in-Chief of CT News Junkie Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With stories to edit, websites to update, and social media accounts to maintain, it's easy for revenue work to fall by the wayside, unless it's part of your daily routine. Our guests in this episode have ideas on how to keep you focused on getting dollars in the door in 2023 and beyond: Kyle Constable is the director of membership and digital innovation at The Connecticut Mirror. Lizzy Hazeltine is a business growth consultant who has worked with LION members across North America. Related resources (for LION members):

Tenant unions are on the rise in our state. Camila Vallejo and Ginny Monk, housing reporters for Connecticut Public and the Connecticut Mirror, found that at least five tenant unions had formed with help from the Connecticut Tenants Union (CTTU). This hour, we hear from Vallejo and Monk, plus organizers with CTTU. As Vallejo and Monk reported, "Tenants unions form as collective bargaining organizations to address issues such as maintenance problems, rent raises and evictions, among other disputes. Tenant organizing grew in popularity during the pandemic, notably in New York City where tenants organized to fight for rent cancellations." A new ordinance in New Haven is the first in the state to allow tenant unions to barter with the city's Fair Rent Commission. A similar resolution was passed in Hamden, where renters at Seramonte Estates recently unionized. A Connecticut law passed last session now requires cities with at least 25,000 residents to establish fair rent commissions that, according to the New Haven Register, are "vested with the power to adjust rents if they find any single landlord is pursuing abusive practices in setting rates." Hamden's Fair Rent Commission is set to meet this week to hear four cases. Connecticut Public contacted North Point Management Corps., the owners of Seramonte Estates, but did not receive comment. While the Connecticut Coalition of Property Owners does not have an official stance on tenant unions, we also hear from John Souza, the organization's president and a full-time landlord, about why he feels organizing is "unnecessary," especially under "smaller landlords." "Everyone is being squeezed by rising prices and inflation including us. The solutions are simple but hard to do." GUESTS: Camila Vallejo: Housing Reporter, Connecticut Public Ginny Monk: Children's Issues and Housing Reporter, Connecticut Mirror Luke Melonakos-Harrison: Organizer, Connecticut Tenants Union Paul Boudreau: Organizer, Seramonte Tenants Union Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Democratic and Republican voters cast their ballots last Tuesday during Connecticut's primary elections. On this week's episode of Disrupted, we take a look at the outcomes of local, state, and federal races. We also learn more about how shifting demographics, class, and low voter turnout could impact state politics in the coming years. GUESTS: Dan Haar: Columnist and Associate Editor at Hearst Connecticut Media Steven T. Moore: Assistant Professor of Government at Wesleyan University Lisa Hagen: Federal Policy Reporter for the Connecticut Mirror and Connecticut Public This program was produced by James Szkobel-Wolff, J. Carlisle Larsen, Kevin Chang Barnum, and Catie Talarski. Thanks to our summer interns, Anya Grondalski and Mira Raju.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday is the Connecticut primary, will you be voting? The races to watch include four candidates competing in the Democratic and Republican primaries for Secretary of the State, and the Treasurer's race where three candidates are vying for the Democratic vote. And which Republican candidate has the best chance to go up against US Senator Richard Blumenthal in November? Mark Pazniokas from the Connecticut Mirror joins us. And later, we hear about a new documentary that explores the history of Mom and Pop stores in downtown Stamford. How did redevelopment change the city's core forever? GUESTS: Mark Pazniokas - Capitol Bureau Chief for Connecticut Mirror Margaret Stapor Costa - Owner and President of Aries Productions, LLC Gail Trell - Production coordinator for Remembering the Family Store Steve Karp - narrator of Remembering the Family Store Thomas Bradford - barber based in Stamford, Connecticut. Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A shortage of reproductive health professionals has resulted in wait times for some services in our state, including in-clinic abortions. Connecticut's "safe harbor" law expands the scope of care for advanced-practice clinicians to include procedural abortions, and is expected to lessen what is now up to a two-week wait. These clinicians are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), clinical-nurse midwives (CNMs) and physician's assistants (PAs). CNM and CEO and President of Planned Parenthood of Southern New England Amanda Skinner told the Connecticut Mirror she expects a "continued surge in patients" in the wake of the Dobbs decision. This hour, Skinner joins us to discuss the important role advanced-practice clinicians play in reproductive health care. At Planned Parenthood, these clinicians are primary care providers, she explains. Plus, Loren Fields is an advanced-practice nurse, educator and longtime member of Clinicians in Abortion Care, an arm of the National Abortion Federation. GUESTS: Amanda Skinner, CNM, MBA: CEO and President, Planned Parenthood of Southern New England Loren Fields, DNP, MSN, APRN: Clinician, Planned Parenthood of Southern New England; Lecturer in Nursing, Yale School of Nursing; Member and Former Advisory Committee Chair, Clinicians in Abortion Care Where We Live is dedicated to exploring the issues and impact of the Supreme Court's overturning of Roe. We wanted to create a space to make it easy for our listeners to find all of this content with one click. Visit ctpublic.org/PostRoeWorld for easy access to our ongoing coverage.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Konstantinos Diamantis, the former state official under federal investigation, showed a special interest in his daughter’s quest for state employment on a number of occasions in early 2020, according to documents released Friday. The documents, obtained by The Connecticut Mirror through a Freedom of Information Act request, were compiled in response to a federal subpoena issued in October. Investigative reporter Dave Altimari tells host Ebong Udoma what the emails reveal. You can read the story here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two companies named in a federal grand jury subpoena investigating former state official Konstantinos Diamantis were the primary beneficiaries of millions of dollars’ worth of hazardous waste abatement work on state buildings since 2017, records show. An analysis by the CT Mirror shows that the two, AAIS and Bestech, got all but 15 of the 284 purchase orders issued by the state for hazardous waste disposal and demolition from fiscal year 2017 through 2022 — contracts that are paid for by the state and not tied to school construction jobs. After receiving questions about the arrangement from the Connecticut Mirror, the state abruptly canceled the contract, even though it was supposed to run until April. Reporter Dave Altimari talks to Ebong Udoma about this CT Mirror investigation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nearly two years since the start of the pandemic, Connecticut has begun granting commutations for incarcerated individuals. Today, we hear more and learn how the pandemic has impacted the prison population in our state. We hear from Connecticut Mirror reporter Kel Lyons. And we talk to a formerly incarcerated person, who recently received a commutation on his sentence. And later, the COVID Prison Project says about 1 in 4 people in prison or jail has gotten COVID-19. Do you have a family member who's incarcerated? GUESTS: Lauren Brinkley-Rubinstein - Founder of COVID Prison Project Kelan Lyons - Report For America Corps Member who covers the intersection of mental health and criminal justice for the Connecticut Mirror Michael Cox - resident of Connecticut and formerly incarcerated person  Alex Taubes - civil rights lawyer from New Haven Connecticut Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we hear about an 80 year tradition at the Bethlehem Connecticut post office that has earned it the nickname Christmastown. Thousands of cards and packages come through this tiny post office every year to get one of their cachets. On Friday, the Connecticut Mirror reported that Sema4, the laboratory based in Stamford responsible for managing 15 out of the 23 state testing sites, has pulled out of it's contract with the state. The company will exit the testing business by mid-January. With the holidays coming up and latest surge in cases, this could not have come at a worse time. Connecticut Mirror investigative reporter Dave Altimari joins us. And later, the Connecticut Social Equity Council is working to set the criteria for those that want to open an adult-use marijuana business on the state. We'll also hear from Andrea Comer, the Social Equity Council Committee Chairwoman. GUESTS: Dave Altimari - Investigative Reporter at Connecticut Mirror Vera Rosa - retired postal clerk of the Bethlehem Post Office Andrea Comer - Interim Deputy Commissioner for the Department of Consumer Protection and the Social Equity Council Committee Chairwoman Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This last year, spent in a pandemic, has changed the lives of so many. But those changes might be felt most acutely by children. Their routines of family life, social life, and learning, were upended. We’ve heard about a “lost school year,” for kids, but what about just a “lost year?” The problems weren’t just felt by those children with the most acute mental health disorders, but we know that for those children who are most at risk, supports weren’t always in place  - before Covid. So, what are the solutions? This past Tuesday night, The Connecticut Mirror, the Gannett Newspapers of New England and the Solutions Journalism Network collaborated on an event called  “Coping With Covid: Mental Health Solutions For Kids” We talked about the challenges - and the solutions for this big problem. And we started with a story from the Mirror’s Adria Watson. She spent weeks following the story of families struggling to find mental health services for their children, and in some cases winding up waiting in the emergency room for days on end, unable to get appropriate care. We also had experts to answer questions from our audience.  Randi Silverman is the executive director of the Youth Mental Health Project, a Connecticut-based charity that has branches in five states. The project’s goal is “to change the conversation and raise awareness that kids can struggle with mental health” through its Parent Support Network.  Michelle Doucette Cunningham is executive director of Connecticut After School Network, an organization that is devoted to developing the “whole child.” The Network is also home to the Social Emotional Learning Alliance For Connecticut. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nursing home workers and Connecticut are still at an impasse over a new contract. The state’s largest health care union has said it will strike as soon as Friday at 26 homes, with other strikes possible in the following weeks. Workers are asking for a pay raise, to $20 an hour, a hike of as much as 33%. The union said that could cost the state more than $200 million per year.  And nursing home operators say they need more than $300 million just to cover losses and cost increases from the pandemic.  The Lamont administration has made what it calls its “last and best offer” to the union. The Governor’s proposal includes $280 million additional funding over two years: $150 million over the next two fiscal years that would primarily fund 4.5% raises for all nursing home workers in Connecticut — not just those threatening to strike. $20 million for a one-time enhancement to workers’ retirement benefits. $12.5 million to fund hazardous pay bonuses; $13.5 million for enhanced training and staff development; And a temporary, 10% increase in facilities’ Medicaid rates worth $86 million between this July and March 2022. These funds would go largely to mitigate lost revenues and added expenses homes have faced. The Lamont administration pointed out that their package is about four times the increase that nursing homes normally get.  But Keith Phaneuf, who covers the state budget for The Connecticut Mirror, said those numbers are deceiving. “Over the last 14 years, nursing homes have probably gotten a 1% increase on average,” he said. “So it's not that hard to beat that, fourfold.” Phaneuf said workers have cited difficult and dangerous working conditions, and not enough staffing during the pandemic, which hit state nursing homes hard.  He said some Democratic lawmakers are pushing the administration to acknowledge that the mostly Black and Latino workers have been hailed as “heroes” over the last year. “Senator Gary Winfield, the Democrat from New Haven really kind of summed it up well, he said, you know, you can give folks all these accolades, but there's no equity without revenue,” Phaneuf said.   “Meaning unless the state puts its dollars behind these types of statements like Black Lives Matter and nursing home workers are heroes. They're empty statements,” he said. 4,000 employees could go out on strike over the next few weeks. You can read more from the Connecticut Mirror at ctmirror.org. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Governor Ned Lamont has removed the Commissioner of Connecticut's Department of Public Health in the middle of a pandemic. How big are the problems faced by nursing homes trying to keep their elderly residents safe? We continue talking about the changes coming as the state gradually re-opens on May 20. And we share feats of strength and air grievances with a bit of a heavy heart, following the death of Seinfeld actor Jerry Stiller. Guests: Beth Hamilton -- Executive Editor of the Connecticut Mirror (@ekhamilton4) Kevin Rennie -- Hartford Courant Columnist and former state lawmaker (@DailyRuctions) Colin McEnroe -- Host of The Colin McEnroe show, and a columnist at Hearst Connecticut. (@ColinMcEnroe)Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

May 20th. It’s the day that Governor Lamont’s closure orders run out. Will schools and nonessential businesses begin to open back up? That all depends on positive trends on COVID-19 hospitalizations, and access to testing. Meanwhile, the 47-member “Reopen Connecticut Advisory Group” has been meeting behind closed doors to give recommendations to the governor on how the state might begin to get back to any sort of normal. This hour we check in on what it might look like to reopen our state. Also, we remember Hartford Courant journalist Josh Kovner who passed away on Friday. GUESTS: Mark Paziokas - Capitol bureau cheif at the Connecticut Mirror (@ctmirrorpaz) Daniela Altimari - covers state government and politics at the Hartford Courant (@capitolwatch) Colin McEnroe - Host of The Colin McEnroe Show, and a columnist for Hearst Connecticut (@ColinMcEnroe) Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

She started as a social worker in Connecticut more than two decades ago. Now, Vannessa Dorantes is the Commissioner of the state’s Department of Children and Families (DCF). This hour, we sit down with Commissioner Dorantes. What questions do you have for the leader of DCF? Join the conversation on Facebook and Twitter. GUESTS: Vannessa Dorantes - Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Children and Families (DCF) Jacqueline Rabe Thomas - Reporter for the Connecticut Mirror (@jacquelinerabe) Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Watch for crowds of people opposed to vaccines at the state capitol today for a public hearing on a bill that would require students claiming religious objections to get the shots. Some of the parents fearful of vaccines are threatening to pull their kids out of school or leave the state. Also, how do quasi public agencies work? Some say one quasi public ran aground while preparing for a major upgrade to state pier in New London. Plus, lawmakers might be close to a vote on truck tolls. Maybe. GUESTS: David Collins - Columnist at The Day (@DavidCollinsct) Mark Pazniokas - Capitol Bureau Chief for the Connecticut Mirror (@ctmirrorpaz) Jonathan Wharton - Associate Professor of Political Science at Southern Connecticut State University (@PreppyProf) Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At midnight, the Connecticut General Assembly ended its regular session on time--and with a new two-year budget. This hour, we look at what lawmakers accomplished and what’s still left on the table. Mark Pazniokas, Capitol Bureau Chief for the Connecticut Mirror, will join us with more. We also talk with a member of the ACLU’s Smart Justice initiative. Anderson Curtis was incarcerated 12 years ago--now, he is celebrating several legislative victories that his group worked on to further criminal justice reform in state.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Special guest Ana Radelat from The Connecticut Mirror joins us to talk about possible fake "comments" to the Federal Communications Commission on the topic of Net Neutrality. The comments may actually have been generated by computerized "robots" rather than actual people. Ana and Erik discuss these effects on the regulatory process. Erik continues with his opinions on the Net Neutrality issue and its significance for the consumer. A caller wonders what types of information that can be stored on the memory card of his phone. We help a caller who is having problems with his firewall preventing streaming music wirelessly through Bose SoundTouch speakers on a Windows computer. A caller wonders if an e-mail saying that AT&T e-mail service will no longer be provided through Yahoo, and wonders about its legitimacy. Erik warns us not to trust the lock icon in the browser to assume a website is legitimate, because spammers use them too. A caller wonders if "free" streaming content via services like Kodi is legitimate and legal. It isn't, and we offer advice on how to stay safe. Bonus tip: How to clear your cache in Mozilla Firefox.

Jason shares information about credit scores you may not be aware of to assist you in actively managing it. Using his own credit history as an example he explains the terms utilization rate, how installment loans and new credit can negatively impact your score. And later in the show, guest David Daley discusses the subject matter of his new book, Ratf__ked: The True Story Behind the Secret Plan to Steal America's Democracy.  David is the former editor of the liberal site Salon.com and is the current CEO/Publisher of the Connecticut Mirror, a non-partisan publication.   Key Takeaways: [5:45] Vital information about how to manage your credit score. [19:06] Jason highlights some positive rankings about existing investment markets.   David Daley Guest Interview: [24:22] Since 2010 Republicans have used Gerrymandering (Operation Redmap) has been used as a partisan weapon. [30:52] In 2012, the democrats have a big year with the reelection of Obama but Janikowski's genius move limits their voting power. [33:00] A technology tool named Maptitude includes census data from districts allowing those in control to draw precision lines when redistricting. [37:42] A House of Representatives [38:03] The Moneyball of politics is evident at the State level. [41:23] Republicans are counting on running the government from Congress and the House of Representatives. [45:27] We need to rethink the way we do election through radical electoral reform.   Mentioned in This Episode: Jason Hartman Ratf__ked: The True Story Behind the Secret Plan to Steal America's Democracy @davedaley3 on Twitter