https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1248-new-england-weekend-51705906/

New England Weekend, Everett, MA (2024)

09/20/2024

We're back this weekend with a new episode!

- Marc Hurwitz from Boston Restaurant Talk and Boston's Hidden Restaurants returns to the show to share his recommendations for restaurants, fall hikes, and bar pizza
- Michael Kilday, a firefighter and paramedic at the Dover NH Fire Department (Dover Professional Firefighters L1312), talks with Nichole about a devastating incident that has the department scrambling to build its long-time Toy Bank back up for the holiday season, and how you can help

Listen live at the dates and times below, or catch the starting at 10 am Saturday on the app or any of your preferred streaming platforms 📲

09/19/2024

A big change is on the way over the next few months for two long-time local zoos.

John Linehan has led the Franklin Park Zoo in Boston and Stone Zoo in Stoneham, known together as Zoo New England, for decades. Now, he says it's time for him to step aside and bring in someone new to take charge.

John recently returned to the show to talk with Nichole about his work in conservation, why he thinks now is the time to leave, and the beloved animals he's been able to forge lasting connections with over the years. Check out the on your favorite streaming services, including the app, or here: https://tinyurl.com/cyz938ws

09/13/2024

This weekend we have an encore episode - be sure to tune in if you didn't hear it the first time around!

We'll be back next week with new content. Remember to subscribe to the on your favorite streaming service, including the app, to get episodes as they come out.

Have a good weekend - stay safe and healthy, and enjoy the dry weather while we have it 🌞

09/12/2024

There are all kinds of therapies out there to help what ails you - art, music, animals, and much more - but have you heard of surf therapy? 🌊🏄🏻‍♀️

Gnome Surf is a non-profit working on the South Coast of Massachusetts and Rhode Island, and their mission is to help people who are neurodivergent, disabled, suffering from PTSD, and many others reduce their anxiety, improve their focus, and learn how to love the water.

COO Jen Potter recently joined the show to talk with Nichole about their efforts and how this special therapy is changing lives. Listen in to their conversation on the right now - find it on the app, your preferred streaming service, or stream it here: https://tinyurl.com/3z333dfj

09/10/2024

The crisp days of fall are starting to settle in, and that means it's time to celebrate the cranberry harvest!

Each year in Harwich, the community comes together for the Harwich Cranberry Festival, where you can find unique arts and crafts from local artisans, performances from New England bands, and all the tasty food you can eat.

Kathy Kirch and Bob Weiser share all the details about the upcoming festival on this week's show. Listen to the on your preferred streaming service, including the app - just search for "WBZ New England Weekend", and don't forget to subscribe to get new episodes immediately sent to your device! 📲

You can also stream the episode here: https://tinyurl.com/mr3wsb83

09/07/2024

Listen in this weekend for a new episode:

- Kathy Kirch and Bob Weiser from the Harwich Cranberry Festival join Nichole to talk about all this family-friendly event has to offer September 14-15, including food trucks, music performances, and special creations from local artisans
- Aimée Shapiro Sedley, COO of the King Richard's Faire in Carver, shares details about how you can travel back in time to the 16th century through performances, food, music, and much more!

Listen in live at the dates and times below, or listen on your own time on the . You can find us anytime, anywhere on the app!

09/03/2024

While Salem's usually known this time of year for getting a bit spooky, there's a lot of excitement for another big festival, and this one's all for the lovers of the written word! 📚

This year's Salem Literary Festival runs from September 4-8, both online and in-person, with all sorts of fun and informative events for bibliophiles and aspiring writers.

This week on the show, Nichole speaks with Jean Marie Procious, Executive Director of the Salem Athenaeum, author Betty Cayouette, and WBZ-AM alum/Salem Lit Fest Committee Member Diane Stern about this family-friendly event!

Listen in on the anywhere you get yours, including on the app, or here: https://tinyurl.com/2683a7rb

08/31/2024

Happy Labor Day weekend! Join us for a new episode:

- Dr. Catherine Brown, State Epidemiologist at the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, talks with Nichole about the uptick in West Nile and EEE around Massachusetts, and what you need to know to stay protected against these mosquito-borne diseases
- Jean Marie Procious, Director of the Salem Athenaeum, author Betty Cayouette, and WBZ NewsRadio alum Diane Stern share details about the upcoming Salem Literary Festival, offering online and in-person events for lovers of the written word

If you can't listen live, find the on the app or on your favorite streaming service, including Spotify and iTunes 📲

08/24/2024

We've made it to another weekend! Check out our new episode:

- Jen Potter, COO of Gnome Surf, talks with Nichole about how their surf therapy programs bring all kinds of people together to help them reduce anxiety, improve focus, build confidence, and learn to love the water
- Sheriff Patrick McDermott from the Norfolk County Sheriff's Office and Carley Snopkowski, Executive Director of the Snapchef Foundation, discuss a new partnership that aims to help justice-involved individuals learn culinary skills to set them up for success post-release

Listen live at the dates and times below or check out the on your own time - you can find us on the app and any of your favorite streaming services 📻

08/17/2024

We're back with a new episode this weekend:

- John Linehan, President and CEO of Zoo New England (Franklin Park Zoo and Stone Zoo) talks about his upcoming retirement, his time at the zoos, and the state of conservation
- Danielle Ferrier, CEO of Heading Home, breaks down the latest in the state's emergency shelter crisis and talks about their efforts to help as many people as possible get a roof over their heads

Listen live at the dates and times below, or download the to take with you on the go this weekend. Remember to subscribe to it on your favorite streaming service, including the app, to ensure you get all the new episodes as they release!

08/16/2024

Communities along the shores of the Merrimack River, and the health of the people who live in them, are the focus of a new study by a research team at Boston University.

The study focuses on "combined sewer overflows", events that are triggered by heavy rains and severe weather that send thousands of gallons of harmful bacteria and sewage into the river.

Dr. Beth Haley, a BU URBAN Trainee, joins Nichole this week to talk about the results of their study, the impact of these overflows on residents, and what can be done to mitigate this problem as climate change becomes a bigger factor.

Listen to the on your preferred streaming service, including the app, or stream the interview here: https://tinyurl.com/2p85dsxz

08/14/2024

You can learn all about World War II in history books, photographs, and newsreels, but this coming weekend, you can also get up close and personal with some of the vehicles that were right there on the battlefield alongside the soldiers who fought for freedom against the Axis alliance!

The American Heritage Museum in Hudson is hosting a special tank demonstration August 17-18. Hunter Chaney, Director of Marketing at the Museum and the Collings Foundation, joins Nichole on this week's show to talk about this educational, fun event.

Find the on your favorite streaming service (always on the app), or stream the interview here: https://tinyurl.com/bdd2v9et

08/10/2024

Join us this weekend for a new episode of the show!

- Hunter Chaney, Director of Marketing at the Collings Foundation and American Heritage Museum, talks with Nichole about their upcoming WWII Tank Demonstration weekend at the Museum in Hudson
- Dr. Beth Haley, URBAN Trainee at Boston University School of Public Health, breaks down a recent study on combined sewer overflows into the Merrimack River and the public health impact of these environmental events

Listen in live at the dates and times below, either on your radio or the app. You can also listen whenever is convenient for you by pulling up the on your favorite streaming service 📲

08/08/2024

Cinema fans have made their way to the Berkshires for nearly 40 years to take part in the Berkshire Jewish Film Festival, watching thought-provoking movies that highlight Jewish culture, history, and contemporary issues.

The event is even more poignant this year amid the hostage crisis in the Middle East and a resurgence of anti-Semitism around the country, including here in New England.

Artistic Director Beth Kruvant has details about this year's lineup and panelists, and talks with Nichole about the importance of such an event for the local Jewish community.

Find the on your preferred streaming service, including the app, or stream the interview here: https://tinyurl.com/2znn5bds

08/05/2024

There are lots of very good dogs with jobs out there helping people with physical and mental disabilities live more accessible lives 🐾

Through the years, the folks at NEADS World Class Service Dogs in Princeton have noticed more and more people are trying to pass off their pets as legitimate service dogs, which can put businesses, public facilities, and cultural centers in a bit of a bind.

Cathy Zemaitis, the Chief Development and Programs Officer at NEADS, joins Nichole this week to talk about their new "Red Vest" initiative which offers information and training to help tackle this sensitive problem. Listen to the now on your favorite streaming service, including the app, or here: https://tinyurl.com/ycrz6dyx

08/03/2024

Welcome to August! We're back with a new episode:

- Cathy Zemaitis from NEADS World Class Service Dogs joins Nichole to talk about their new "Red Vest" initiative, helping businesses and institutions ensure service dogs can do their important jobs without distractions
- Beth Kruvant with the Berkshire Jewish Film Festival shares details about their long-running festival showing films that highlight Jewish history and culture
- Steven Maler at the Commonwealth Shakespeare Company discusses this summer's performance of "A Winter's Tale" and reveals a new project in the pipeline

Listen live at the dates and times below, over the air or on the app! You can also find the on any of your preferred services. 📻

07/30/2024

We're almost halfway through the 20's (the 2020's, that is), but if you want to take a trip back in time to the 1920's, the The Trustees - Crane Estate can help you out with that.

Their "Roaring Twenties Lawn Party" returns to the Crane Estate in Ipswich August 3 and 4, showcasing all things 1920's like jazz music, swing dancing, vintage clothes, classic cars, and much more!

Trina Schell, the Public Programs and Volunteer Manager at the Trustees, recently joined Nichole on the show to talk about this festive event. Listen to the interview on your favorite platform, including the app, or here: https://tinyurl.com/3cbt46p9

07/27/2024

Welcome to the weekend! We're airing an encore episode this time around, so tune in if you missed the first airing!

- Catherine D'Amato, President and CEO of The Greater Boston Food Bank, and Dr. Lauren Fiechtner, Director of Nutrition at Mass General for Children, talk with Nichole about this year's "Food Access Report", and what it highlights about food insecurity here in Massachusetts
- Marie Beam, CEO of Discovery Museum in Acton, has the details about a prestigious new award from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, what it means for the Museum, and their summer offerings

You can also catch up on the , which you can find on any of your favorite streaming services, including the app. New episodes return next week!

07/25/2024

The heat and humidity have been downright oppressive at times around New England lately, and it's hard for humans to stay cool in such conditions. For dogs and cats, it's much more complicated thanks to their thick fur and body development.

Each summer, many pets come down with heatstroke, or even die, because they are left in a hot car - even for just a few minutes!

Dr. Edward Schettino, President and CEO of the Animal Rescue League of Boston, talks with Nichole this week about their "Too Hot for Spot" campaign and offers some critical tips to help keep your pet safe. Listen to the on the app, your favorite streaming service, or here: https://tinyurl.com/ycxyce2h

07/20/2024

Happy weekend! Tune in for a new episode:

- Dr. Edward Schettino, President and CEO of Animal Rescue League of Boston, shares helpful information from their "Too Hot for Spot" campaign about how you can keep your pets safe this summer
- Liz Vizza, President of the Friends of the Public Garden, tells the story of a special willow tree that recently had to be taken down and talks about the plans to preserve the rest of the Public Garden's iconic trees
- Trina Schell, Public Programs and Volunteer Manager at The Trustees - Crane Estate in Ipswich, has all the details on their upcoming "Roaring Twenties Lawn Party" on August 3rd and 4th, where you'll be transported back to the 1920s!

Listen live at the dates and times below or find us on your favorite app, including the app - just search for "WBZ New England Weekend" 📲

07/19/2024

It's almost time to party in Boston's South End!

New England's longest-running culture festival returns TOMORROW with an incredible musical lineup, tasty food, a parade, and plenty of fun. IBA - Inquilinos Boricuas en Acción's "Festival Betances" is all about inclusion, community, and expression.

IBA's CEO, Vanessa Calderón-Rosado, returns to the show to share all the details about this special event. Listen to the interview on the on your favorite streaming service - just search for "WBZ New England Weekend" - or stream here: https://tinyurl.com/bdfatfk3

07/18/2024

Many dogs work for the Boston Police Department (Official) each and every day, but the department has never had a comfort dog - until now! 🐾

Copper the dog is BPD's first ever comfort dog, and she's in training with her handler, Officer Tim Wilson. Nichole talks with Officer Wilson, BPD Chief of Communications Mariellen Burns, and Copper this week about their training journey and her role in the community.

(As promised on the show, here are some adorable photos of Copper during her training, including a shot of her on the phone during our interview for the episode!)

Listen to the episode on the wherever you find yours, including the app, or stream here: https://tinyurl.com/2y79hry7

07/13/2024

Happy weekend! Stay cool and listen in to our latest episode:

- Vanessa Calderón-Rosado, CEO of IBA - Inquilinos Boricuas en Acción in Boston's South End, returns to the show with all the details about this year's Festival Betances, celebrating all aspects of local culture
- Jody Jones, Senior Program Director at the Massachusetts Broadband Institute, talks with Nichole about the "digital divide" and a new portal where you can help make sure everyone has access to high-speed
- Officer Tim Wilson and Mariellen Burns from the Boston Police Department (Official) introduce the BPD's first ever comfort , Copper, and talk about her ongoing training (Copper makes an appearance or two)

You can listen live at any of the dates and times below, or find the on any of your preferred streaming services, including the app!

07/12/2024

The Sumner Tunnel restoration project has been going on for some time now, and MassDOT recently kicked off the second and final major closure of the project - shutting down the tunnel that runs from East to downtown for a month.

Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver says the closure was necessary so crews can carry out some significant road repairs that just can't be done as easily with typical lane closures. Once it's all done, Gulliver says we'll see the light at the end of the tunnel when it comes to the project.

He joins Nichole this week to share the details for commuters. Listen in to the anywhere you get yours, or stream it here: https://tinyurl.com/mv846r6p 🚧

07/10/2024

It's all fun and games these days in downtown !

The city has been putting a lot of effort into creating a gamer's paradise around the Malden Center MBTA stop, continually growing the Malden Gaming District each and every year with more fun offerings. They say there is something for everyone, from the casual to a console legend.

Kevin Duffy and Tess Young from the City of Malden (Official) join Nichole this week to talk about the initiative and how they're working to bring in even more exciting experiences. You can listen to the anywhere you get yours - just search for "WBZ New England Weekend" - or stream here: https://tinyurl.com/3rdhsvpm 🕹🎮

07/06/2024

We’re back this holiday weekend with a new episode, covering a few topics:

- Jonathan Gulliver, Highway Administrator at MassDOT, joins Nichole to talk about the latest extended Sumner Tunnel closure and how it will impact commuters
- Kevin Duffy and Tess Young from the city of Malden have details on the city’s Gaming District and what they have to offer for anyone who comes to visit, even if you’re not an avid gamer!
- John Petrozzelli, Director of the MassCyberCenter at MassTech, shares information about the ongoing online threats to our utilities by hackers, and what the state is doing to help keep them protected

You can listen live at any of the dates and times below, or find the now on your preferred streaming service. Just search for “WBZ New England Weekend”.

07/02/2024

Food insecurity has been a growing problem in Massachusetts for years, especially since the start of the COVID pandemic. Inflation hasn't helped, with food prices skyrocketing at the grocery store and at local restaurants. A new report from The Greater Boston Food Bank in collaboration with Mass General Brigham takes a closer look at the factors driving this concerning trend.

Catherine D'Amato, President and CEO of the Food Bank, and Dr. Lauren Fiechtner, Director of Nutrition at Mass General for Children, break down the highlights of the report with Nichole and share resources for those who are in need.

You can read the report in full here:https://www.gbfb.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/GBFB_Food-Access-Report_2024_final.pdf

Listen to the podcast on any of your preferred streaming services (we're on the app, Spotify, iTunes, etc) or here: https://tinyurl.com/ydk49zyx

06/29/2024

Happy weekend! We're back with a new episode:

- Catherine D'Amato, President and CEO of The Greater Boston Food Bank, and Dr. Lauren Fiechtner, Director of Nutrition at Mass General for Children, talk with Nichole about this year's "Food Access Report", and what it highlights about food insecurity here in Massachusetts
- Marie Beam, CEO of Discovery Museum in Acton, has the details about a prestigious new award from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, what it means for the Museum, and their summer offerings

Remember, you can listen live at the dates and times below, but you can also catch the anytime that's convenient for you - just search for "WBZ New England Weekend" on your preferred streaming service. Don't forget to subscribe 📲

06/22/2024

We're off this weekend, but you know we'll have an episode on the air this weekend for you to listen in!

- Suzanne Fountain, Vice President of the Jimmy Fund, talks about changes to this year's Jimmy Fund Walk course
- MassDEP Commissioner Bonnie Heiple has details on the state's new efforts to get air quality monitors into "environmental justice" communities
- Lindsay Best-Greenspan and Alissa DeSousa from Rare Riders talk about their efforts to provide adaptive bikes for kids with special needs on the South Coast

Listen live or check out the podcast on your favorite streaming platform - just search for "WBZ New England Weekend"! See you next week - we've got a lot of great episodes on the way.

06/15/2024

Join us this weekend for a brand new episode:

- Laura Jasinski, Charles River Conservancy's Executive Director, talks with Nichole about their upcoming City Splash event, during which you can safely swim in the Charles River and practice your perfect cannonball 🏊🏻‍♀️
- Erin Kenny, Senior Manager of the Overnight Walk at the American Foundation for Su***de Prevention, has details about the upcoming "Out of the Darkness" Overnight Walk here in Boston on June 22, and their efforts to help change the conversation about mental health

Tune in live on your local station at the dates and times below, or simply open up your preferred platform to listen - just search for "WBZ New England Weekend" 📲