As the tariff spat between Washington and Ottawa escalates, the special bond between New England and our neighbors to the north is being put to the test. This week, we're exploring what this developing trade war means for our regional economy and what it could do to the close partnership New England has worked to develop with Canada for decades. Jonathan Gruber, the Ford Professor for Economics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge, discusses the potential consequences of this trade war, including the impact on local small business owners and the tourism industry.

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The Trans-Siberian Orchestra has become a staple of the holiday season over its 30 years on the road, entertaining audiences of all ages. This year, they're coming back to Worcester on November 28th to perform their rock opera, "The Ghosts of Christmas Eve". It promises to be an impressive show with lasers, pyrotechnics, dancers, a compelling story, and, of course, amazing music. Jeff Plate, the band's drummer who's been part of the lineup since day one, returns to the show to talk about TSO's history, the vision of founder Paul O'Neill, their efforts to give back to local charities, and the upcoming tour.

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Newton-based Spoonfuls works each day to help those around the Commonwealth in need by recovering food from local farms, restaurants, stores, and other businesses that would otherwise end up in landfills. So far, they've been able to provide enough meals for more than 5.5 million people! Their biggest fundraiser of the year, the "Ultimate Tailgate", is coming up on October 29th at the Roadrunner in Brighton. Founder Ashley Stanley talks with Nichole about the importance of food recovery in a wavering economy, the organization's efforts, and how some of Boston's top chefs are stepping up to help them do this critical work.

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As fall arrives in New England, you might take a moment to appreciate the vibrant foliage and reflect on the beauty of nature. Mount Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge and Watertown is a great place to do that, with its stunning landscape spanning 175 acres of grounds. The cemetery has been a place of reflection and inspiration since it was founded in the 1830's, and it also serves as a hub of community activity, including for an upcoming "Cemetery Cinema" event in conjunction with the Coolidge Corner Theatre in Brookline. Bree Harvey, the cemetery's VP of Cemetery and Visitor Services, talks with Nichole about the cemetery's rich history and its innovative approach to programming.

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A magical world is about to come to life at the New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill in Boylston! This fall, the garden is transforming into a whimsical fairy village called Fairy Hollow, complete with custom fairy houses created by local artists. Other fun fairy-themed events are on the calendar, too, including a masquerade ball! Marissa Gallant, Director of Education at the Botanic Garden, shares details with Nichole about this charming event and other fall offerings.

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As the nation's food supply gets hit with more challenges, from parasite outbreaks to recalls, consumers are re-evaluating their shopping habits. Many are turning to local farmers for safer and more reliable options, support local producers say they're thrilled to have. Warren Shaw, the owner of Shaw Farm in Dracut and president of the Massachusetts Farm Bureau, joins Nichole this week to talk about the importance of supporting local farmers and the benefits of having a safe and reliable food supply in your community.

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Haley House has come a long way since it opened up 60 years ago in Boston's South End. Today, it offers a range of services, including affordable housing, an urban farm, a soup kitchen, and a bakery cafe. But it's not just about providing food; it's about addressing the root causes of hunger and poverty. Executive Director Reggie Jean talks with Nichole this week about their commitment to building community, security, and trust in the South End and Lower Roxbury neighborhoods.

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As the new school year gets underway, educators and students are gearing up for a fresh start, but behind the scenes, schools are facing a one-two punch of budget cuts and rising costs. Educators are often left to dip into their own pockets to stock their classrooms. The state is stepping in with a new initiative to offer some relief for educators and child care providers who already give so much to help the kids in their lives. Education Secretary Dr. Stephen Zrike talks with Nichole about the Educator Discounts Directory and how the state is working on solutions to address fiscal challenges impacting our school districts.

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Many people head to the Berkshires to retire and live out their golden years. Soon, at the Berkshire Farm Sanctuary in Peru, founder Dori Scofield wants to make it possible for senior pups to do the same thing! The team at the sanctuary is working hard on the "Old Dog Inn", a safe, loving shelter solely for senior dogs that need a warm bed, roaring fireplace, and big yard to settle down in for their final years. Dori joins Nichole this week to share stories from her decades dedicated to animal rescue and talk about how you can help this new shelter become a reality.

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