Boston’s iconic steaming kettle, now 150 years old, graces the façade of a Starbucks coffee shop in Government Center.

Boston’s steaming kettle is 150 years old

By Michael Perna Jr., Contributing Writer BOSTON - December of 2023 was the 250th anniversary of the Boston Tea Party. Last year also marked the...
The water tower of the Necco factory in Cambridge was painted to resemble a package of Necco Wafers. Photo/Jill Robidoux-Wikimedia Commons

Necco’s sweet journey into creating classic candies began in Boston

By Sharon Oliver, Contributing Writer BOSTON - Penny candies were the norm dating as far back as the Great Depression and the mere mention of...
A longtime champion of Irish music and culture in Boston through his WGBH radio show, Brian O’Donovan died of cancer in October. Photo/Meredith Nierman courtesy of WGBH

Irish music fans mourn the loss of radio host Brian O’Donovan

By Brett Peruzzi, Managing Editor A longtime champion of Irish music and culture in Boston through his WGBH radio show, Brian O’Donovan died of...
The iconic clock at Filene’s flagship store at Boston’s Downtown Crossing was a popular rendezvous point for generations of Massachusetts residents.

Filene’s was a pioneer in discount department store history

By Sharon Oliver, Contributing Writer BOSTON - Long before there were suburban shopping centers or malls, consumers took to the downtown areas of major cities...
After closing six years ago, Boston’s legendary Jacob Wirth restaurant will be reopening soon after extensive renovations are completed.

Boston’s Jacob Wirth restaurant set to let the good times roll again

By Sharon Oliver, Contributing Writer BOSTON - Over the years, Boston-area residents have mourned the loss of their favorite dining establishments time and time again,...
Malden native Norman Greenbaum, who in 1969 released “Spirit in the Sky,” one of the most enduring hits of classic rock radio, is still performing. Photo/Shutterstock

Malden native Norman Greenbaum is still singing about that ‘Spirit in the Sky’

By Brett Peruzzi, Managing Editor MALDEN - In late 1969, singer-songwriter Norman Greenbaum’s record company released his song “Spirit in the Sky.” More than half...
Waterville Valley has plenty of winter activities for non-skiers, including snowshoeing. Photo/Submitted

Waterville Valley is a multi-generation destination with more than just skiing

By Sandi Barrett, Contributing Writer Waterville Valley has plenty of winter activities for non-skiers, including snowshoeing.Photo/Submitted WATERVILLE VALLEY, NH - Unplug, connect with family, and...
The Bedford Papa Gino’s location features its classic look with the colors of the Italian flag prominently displayed on the façade.

Papa Gino’s started as a by-the-slice pizzeria in East Boston

By Sharon Oliver, Contributing Writer The Bedford Papa Gino’s location features its classic look with the colors of the Italian flag prominently displayed on...
A statue of Thoreau and a replica of the single-room cabin that he built during his stay at Walden Pond is situated near the visitors center.

Thoreau’s retreat at Walden Pond in Concord continues to attract throngs of admirers

By Colin McCandless, Contributing Writer  CONCORD - Author and naturalist Henry David Thoreau intentionally lived alone in a modest cabin in the woods at Walden...
Portsmouth, New Hampshire is a charming waterfront destination only about an hour from the Boston area. Photo/Sandi Barrett

Portsmouth, New Hampshire is a charming waterfront destination

By Sandi Barrett, Contributing Writer PORTSMOUTH, N.H. - New Hampshire's mighty port city is filled with charming local shops, historic homes, delicious eateries, and beautiful...