Pledging Not to Pledge

California Governor Gavin Newsom is seeking to commute all 548 death sentences in the state to life in prison without the possibility of parole, arguing that state-sanctioned executions are incompatible with California's values. But the move is facing opposition from the Criminal Justice Legal Foundation, which, alongside victims' families, law enforcement leaders, and prosecutors, is challenging the mass commutations, arguing that Newsom is disregarding victims' rights, jury verdicts, and the will of California voters. The group is preparing to fight the decision in court, insisting each case deserves individual consideration.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When we hear the word dementia, Alzheimer's disease is usually the first thing that comes to mind. But there's another form that doesn't get nearly as much attention…Lewy body dementia. It can affect everything from memory and thinking to movement, sleep, and even behavior. Dan spoke with Brent Forester, Psychiatrist-in-Chief and Chair of Psychiatry at Tufts Medical Center, about the warning signs, why the disease can be difficult to diagnose, and what families should know if someone they love is showing symptoms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

California Governor Gavin Newsom is seeking to commute all 548 death sentences in the state to life in prison without the possibility of parole, arguing that state-sanctioned executions are incompatible with California's values. But the move is facing opposition from the Criminal Justice Legal Foundation, which, alongside victims' families, law enforcement leaders, and prosecutors, is challenging the mass commutations, arguing that Newsom is disregarding victims' rights, jury verdicts, and the will of California voters. The group is preparing to fight the decision in court, insisting each case deserves individual consideration.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the eve of Veterans Day, the Canton Select Board voted to reject a proposal to incorporate the Pledge of Allegiance into its regular meeting schedule. Board members said taking their oath of office already serves as a sufficient demonstration of civic and patriotic duty. The resident who made the request, Brenda Sweeney, said it was intended as a tribute to veterans, including her late father, but some board members believe patriotism is demonstrated through public service and actions, not simply reciting the pledge. Dan spoke with Brenda about her request and the board's decision.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Cambridge pizzeria, Source, is now charging a $3 restroom fee for non-customers looking to use their restrooms. The bathroom policy was created after customers started complaining about local concertgoers across the street who would flood the pizzeria’s bathroom leading to long wait times. Do you stand in solidarity with the pizza shop, or do you find the bathroom policy to be a bit excessive?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Data centers have been a controversial topic nationwide because of the energy and water resources they require to power AI. Here in Massachusetts, a 900-megawatt data center has been proposed in the town of Sutton and met with mixed reactions from locals. What are the pros and cons of constructing a data center? What’s the economic benefit of such an endeavor compared to the environmental impact? We’ll get into the data center debate and ask you, the audience, where you come down in this debate. Are you for or against having a data center in your town?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Continued conversation about how Amtrak is preparing to change its firearms policy to allow passengers to bring guns aboard certain trains in secure, personal lockboxes beginning in 2027. The Transport Workers Union argues that allowing firearms in passenger cars could create serious safety and security concerns for both employees and travelers. Dan has ridden Amtrak trains many times and has never gone through any type of security screening, such as metal detectors, X-ray machines, or luggage inspections. Should guns be allowed in some capacity on trains?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amtrak is preparing to change its firearms policy to allow passengers to bring guns aboard certain trains in secure, personal lockboxes beginning in 2027. The Transport Workers Union argues that allowing firearms in passenger cars could create serious safety and security concerns for both employees and travelers. Dan has ridden Amtrak trains many times and has never gone through any type of security screening, such as metal detectors, X-ray machines, or luggage inspections. Should guns be allowed in some capacity on trains?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Boston photojournalist Bill Brett is shining a spotlight on the men and women who have served our country through his latest collection of portraits, Boston Veterans Appreciation. The book features nearly 190 portraits of veterans, active-duty military members, and the people who support them, capturing their personal stories and sacrifices. Dan spoke with Bill about the local heroes whose stories will be forever preserved in this book.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dan invited callers to check in with salutes to Veterans for this Veterans Day. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.