The Point

In Governor Baker’s phased re-opening of the commonwealth, in-person religious services were given the go-ahead. Despite the guidelines that limit the number of people in attendance and require social distancing protocols, many were surprised by his decision. We talk with faith leaders about staying connected during the pandemic, and how they determine when it’s safe to bring the community together physically.

That was the quietest Memorial Day Weekend in memory. So, is it a preview of our pandemic summer to come? Meanwhile, an aggressive coyote is shot at the National Seashore. And baseball may return to Cape Cod this summer after all – but it’s likely not how you think.

There is a lot scientists know about the coronavirus, and some things we’re still learning. Sometimes the scientific jargon can be confusing, and as we develop vaccines and treatments it can be hard to keep up. On The Point we talk with biologist, educator, and science author Michael DiSpezio : he’s created a blog to help people navigate through the science of the virus. We also take your corona virus questions. This link will take you to his Twitter feed.

On The Point, we explore further into our home bookshelves, both real and virtual. Our guests are Jill Erickson, Reference Librarian at Falmouth Public Library , and author Peter Abrahams . Along with our host Mindy Todd and listeners around the region, we compare reading lists and we even hear a recording of a wonderful voice reading out loud that might tempt one into the world of audio books.

Birds have long fascinated humans. We marveled at their ability to fly, in fact the first flying machines humans created emulated their flapping wings. It turns out the ability to fly is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the extraordinary behaviors, adaptations and intelligence of the species. Jennifer Ackerman's book The Genius of Birds brought to light the deep and varied intelligence of birds. She’s just published an equally fascinating book highlighting recent scientific research

Local businesses react as Governor Baker announces Phase 1 of his plan to reopen the state’s economy. And voters head to the polls, wearing face masks and carrying their own pens, to elect a new state senator. We have those stories and more on the local news roundup, as WCAI News Director Steve Junker speaks with some of the region’s leading journalists.

Fresh new green and flowers everywhere: after a chilly spring, May gardens and landscapes are looking great in our region. Horticulturist Roberta Clark joins our host Mindy Todd, and listeners, to share highlights of the season and tips for getting the best out of your garden choices and projects. Critters cannot be left out of the discussion, as they too have emerged and are active in our surrounings, from helpful pollinators to hungry competitors for crops.

These are unsettling times to say the least. As we figure out what our so called new normal might be, uncertainty and change can be difficult. On The Point, we discuss how people adapt to changing circumstances.

Memorial Day is right around the corner, the unofficial start to summer. We talk with members of the Cape Re-Opening Task Force about preparing for the safe opening of beaches, restaurants and retail business. How can we minimize the risk of spreading the virus while still supporting the local economy? And with an increase population, can our health care system handle a potential uptick in corona virus cases?

What’s the pandemic going to mean for heading to the beach this summer? That’s a big question for towns across the region. Meanwhile, small businesses seeking to reopen are counting the obstacles. And Martha's Vineyard has a plan to dramatically expand coronavirus testing. We have those stories and more on the local news roundup, as WCAI News Director Steve Junker speaks with some of the region’s leading journalists.