Pop It

Did you know the "Father of Greater New York" actually lived in Worcester? This week, we discuss the salacious tale of his assassination. Our telling is sourced from a variety of archived New York Times articles, Michael Rubbinaccio's gripping text: New York's Father Is Murdered!: The Life and Death of Andrew Haswell Green, and the commentary of Worcester's top historian Bill Wallace—Executive Director of Worcester Historical Museum. (There's also a sprinkle of Wikipedia, if we're being honest.) Musical interludes by Submarine Machine. Do you have more info about the fate of Hannah Elias? DM us at @popitworcester.

Consider your take out options, bake cookies, and enjoy some of our pop culture recommendations to get you through the week.

Susan Orlean: "Life's Swell"

Sloane Crosley: "The Pony Problem"

https://allpoetry.com

Usually our episodes drop on Wednesdays, but we sense that everyone could use an extra dose of content. Meet Dr. Elizabeth Blake of Clark University. Her research brings together gender studies, food, and early 20th century lit. In this episode, we pay tribute to Bahnan's (we love you Jimmy!), Cait Weaver, and MSG. We also compare Coronavirus reactions among our various educational institutions. Photos by Unity Mike. #WACfunded thanks to Worcester Arts Council. Intro music by Submarine Machine.

Julie Bowditch has become a seasoned expert in the art of fundraising as an Advancement Officer for UMASS Medical School. In this episode of Pop It, she tells us why she got involved at CASA Project and what to expect at the Champions for Children Celebration on March 6. CASA Project recruits, screens and trains volunteers from the community to be appointed advocates for children that have been abused or neglected in Worcester County. We also discuss Taylor Swift's video for "The Man" and reactions to a recent Worcester Business Journal piece titled, "Disrespected."

Photos by Unity Mike. This podcast was made possible by the Worcester Arts Council. #WACfunded

Is it more powerful to give $5k to 100 organizations or $100k to 5 organizations? Greater Worcester Community Foundation President & CEO Barbara Fields says, "Yes." We discuss housing options, community policing, and Barbara's presidential appointment in the Obama Administration.

Lucy Hale is paving the way for equal pay in the museum world. As the latest President & CEO of Worcester's beloved Ecotarium, she continues to put community first. We asked her about navigating climate change and evolution during her time in the Dallas museum/zoo circuit. We toured collections storage with the Ecotarium's brilliant curator Martin Christiansen. And, Lucy teased this year's Night at the Museum event on May 9, at which she plans to reveal the details of a new Namibian partnership. Photo by the talented Mike Hendrickson. This podcast is supported by Worcester Arts Council. #WACfunded #worcesterartscouncil

How are you feeling about Timothee Chalomet's Prada track suit? Did someone finally find Bong Joon Ho that Texas chainsaw? Will Maya Rudolph and Kristen Wiig get the gig? Did you lose yourself in the music? The moment?

A discussion of Deborah Dugan's dismissal, our favorite flautist, the problem with Finneas, Billie EIlish's breakout year, and Billy Porter's hat. We do our best to unpack this MassLive piece about Worcester's "Next Wave" which noted an emerging workspace for creatives at the intersection of Beacon Street and Jackson Street.

We're in over our heads when it comes to defining "gentrification," but it seems we're not alone. What do you think of these studies? Do they help shed light on Worcester's situation or confuse things further?

Extra Credit: "The Effects of Gentrification on the Well-Being and Opportunity of Original Resident Adults and Children"

We break down the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's astonishing decision to "step back as 'senior' members of the Royal Family" in favor of Molson and poutine. We also review the irksome 2020 Oscar nominations. (JUSTICE FOR J.LO!)

Oh, and have you pre-ordered one of Gwyneth's $75 TSLMV candles?

Interviewers make up their minds about you within the first 7 seconds. Your appearance is the most important determinant of whether or not you'll get the job, followed by your attitude. The last thing they factor in is what comes out of your mouth. Dress for Success Program Director Beth Butler is dedicated to empowering women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire and the development tools to help women thrive in work and in life. Beth grew up in Defiance, Ohio, then moved to NYC to work in the fashion industry, and now resides in Central Mass. She especially loves designers Ralph Lauren and Tory Burch. Photos by Unity Mike.