BPR Full Show: Back at the BPL

Today on Boston Public Library:

We begin the show by opening phone lines, asking listeners about whether they’re returning to pre-pandemic activities as COVID-19 cases wind down.

Trenni Kusnierek shares her thoughts on the International Olympic Committee allowing Russian figure skater Kamila Valieva to continue competing despite testing positive for banned substances. She also discusses Roger Goodell’s recent statement on diversity in the NFL. Kusnierek is a reporter and anchor for NBC Sports Boston, and a weekly Boston Public Radio contributor.

Stacy Thompson and Jim Aloisi discusses Mayor Michelle Wu’s announcement of a two-year, fare-free program for MBTA bus routes 23, 28, and 29 beginning March 1, 2022, and how the program relates to Mayor Wu’s mission to make the T free. Aloisi is the former Massachusetts transportation secretary, a member of the Transit Matters board and contributor to Commonwealth Magazine. Thompson is executive director of Livable Streets.

Carol Greenwald talks about the end of “Arthur” after 25 years on-air. Greenwald is executive producer of Arthur, and has been since the beginning of the show. 

Rep. Katherine Clark discusses threats to Roe v. Wade, and state and federal authorities attempting to get back at least $2.7 billion in unemployment payments they accidentally overpaid people during the pandemic. Rep. Katherine Clark is assistant Speaker of the House.

John King updates us on the latest political headlines, from Russia’s potential invasion of Ukraine to the state of inflation. King is CNN's Chief National Correspondent and anchor of "Inside Politics,” which airs weekdays and Sunday mornings at 8 a.m.

We wrap up the show by talking with listeners about whether they enjoy being late to things.