“People avoid talking about it,” said Jan Krause Greene, a writer, peace activist, and grandmother who moved to Bellingham five years ago. “It’s the first time in my life I’ve avoided talking about it. . . . I don’t bring it up unless I’m in a safe space.” The taboo topic, of course, is politics, and more specifically, President Trump, whose 2016 election uncloaked a chasm between voters all over the country, but here especially so. In Bellingham, residents turned out in force at the polls that day, mostly unaware of the rift within their ranks. When the votes were counted, Bellingham emerged as the most closely divided town in Massachusetts, a mere 26 votes out of almost 9,000 deciding the race locally in favor of Donald Trump. For a time, people tried to talk about it. Arguments flared; Facebook friends were un-friended. Soon, unspoken rules were laid down, and an uneasy quiet descended. Last month, as House Democrats … [Read more...] about What’s better left unsaid in Bellingham? Politics
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Newseum in Washington, D.C., will close at year’s end
WASHINGTON (AP) — A museum dedicated to journalism and the First Amendment is set to close its doors near the National Mall by the end of the year. WTOP-FM reports the Newseum announced its impending closure Tuesday, citing yearslong financial issues. A company statement says that despite more than 11 years of service and nearly 10 million visitors, continued operations have proved to be unsustainable. The statement says the museum’s founder and primary funder, the Freedom Forum, remains committed to its mission to champion the five freedoms guaranteed under the First Amendment. It says efforts to increase public awareness about the importance of a free press are needed now more than ever. Visitors are welcome through Dec. 31, 2019. Tickets purchased online include a 15% discount, with prices now starting at about $12. Close Boston.com Today Sign up for Boston.com Today to get the headlines delivered to your inbox. Thanks for signing up! … [Read more...] about Newseum in Washington, D.C., will close at year’s end
Here’s a look at the new Red Line cars
Close Boston.com Today Sign up for Boston.com Today to get the headlines delivered to your inbox. Thanks for signing up! … [Read more...] about Here’s a look at the new Red Line cars
I believe Warren’s pregnancy story
When you run for president, every aspect of your life story undergoes harsh scrutiny, whether it’s Bill Clinton’s draft avoidance, how George W. Bush ended up in the Texas Air National Guard, Barack Obama’s relationship with the Rev. Jeremiah Wright, or Donald Trump’s pay-off to Stormy Daniels. It’s up to voters to weigh any discrepancies and judge their overall importance to a candidate’s credibility. So far with Warren’s pregnancy story, there’s no way to get to the absolute truth. But personal experience tells us what most likely happened to her. In 1971, when Warren was a young teacher, there were no laws protecting pregnant women in the workplace and it was common for pregnant teachers to be forced to leave their jobs. Thirty years ago, the law then in place didn’t stop a boss from giving away my desk and job. And discrimination against pregnant women continues today. While it can be subtle, its effect on careers is always … [Read more...] about I believe Warren’s pregnancy story
Police respond to a church shooting in Pelham, New Hampshire
PELHAM, N.H. (AP) — Police in New Hampshire have responded to a church in Pelham for reports of a shooting. Authorities responded to the New England Pentecostal Church just after 10 a.m. Saturday. WMUR-TV reports that Hillsborough County Attorney Michael Conlon said there were no fatalities and a suspect is in custody. New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu said in a statement that state officials are at the church assisting first responders in the shooting investigation. New Hampshire Attorney General’s office spokeswoman Kate Spiner says the office is aware of the situation and is working in conjunction with the Hillsborough County Attorney. Photos of the scene show ambulances, fire trucks and police cars at the church. Pelham is located about 40 miles (64 kilometers) south of Concord, New Hampshire’s capital. It borders Massachusetts. Close Boston.com Today Sign up for Boston.com Today to get the headlines delivered to your inbox. Thanks for signing up! … [Read more...] about Police respond to a church shooting in Pelham, New Hampshire