The Point

WCAI News Director Steve Junker hosts a roundup of some of the week's top local and regional news, including: Local health officials continue to assure the public that risk from the novel coronavirus is low; questions continue about the safety of radioactive waste the site of Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station: and put the phone down if you’re driving! We’ve got a new state law in effect.

We wrap up our conversations with Candidates for the Plymouth Barnstable State Senate Seat with Republican Jay McMahon . Mindy Todd hosts this interview.

Crisis can happen at any moment, and to anyone. Whether it’s the loss of a job or a spouse, bankruptcy, illness, or a divorce, having a place to turn for assistance, support and education can make all the difference. The Women’s Empowerment through Cape Area Networking or WE CAN has been providing this support for women on Cape Cod for nearly 20 years through a variety of programs. On The Point, we speak with some of the people involved: Lisa Guyon, Executive Director of WE CAN Lori Pinard,

A MassInc study published last November found that Massachusetts elected officials do not reflect the diversity of the commonwealth. According to the report, unbalanced representation by race and ethnicity is apparent, as well as gaps by gender and party affiliation. On The Point, we discuss what it takes to run for elected office, whether a local board or the state legislature, why we don’t see more diverse candidates, and some of the supports available to help prepare individuals to run for

Many believe there is an environmental and moral imperative to address our changing climate. We are now seeing scientists and faith leaders teaming up to push for more action. On The Point, we talk with leaders from the faith and science communities about this alliance, and ways to help on a local level.

On The Point, a conversation with democrat Becky Coletta , candidate for the Plymouth Barnstable State Senate Seat. Mindy Todd and Steve Junker host this interview, which is part of our series of candidate interviews.

WCAI News Director Steve Junker hosts a roundup of some of the week's top local and regional news, including: homeowners in Barnstable want more regulations on short-term rentals; Carlos Rafael's fishing fleet and permits will stay in New Bedford; latest estimates say the new Woods Hole terminal project will cost the Steamship Authority almost $93 million; and Massachusetts gets a chance to try early voting for a presidential primary, for the first time ever.

Romance books are big business: 1.8 billion dollars, and there's a very devoted fan base. What makes a good romance novel? We find out on The Point. Petra Mayer, Books Editor for NPR, and Jill Erickson, Reference Librarian at Falmouth Public Library, join us to share their top picks for Books on Romance.

On The Point, our behavioral health conversation this month is about recognizing when you need help, and how to find the supports you need. Our panel of mental health experts talk about the various disciplines, and barriers, in mental health care. State Senator Julian Cyr also joins us to talk about a mental health care reform bill that passed the Senate last week . The Mental Health A.B.C. Act proposes a more integrated system that includes parity and insurance reforms.

On June 4th in 1920, women won their long fight to vote after Tennessee became the final state to ratify the 19th Amendment. On The Point, we revisit a conversation with Elaine Weiss about her book The Woman’s Hour: The Great Fight to Win the Vote. Weiss’s book reveals a complex and fascinating history of women’s rights, and draws parallels between politics today and one hundred years ago.