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Top GOP recruit David McCormick launches Pennsylvania Senate campaign

McCormick lost to Mehmet Oz in last year's Republican primary.

Politics & Policy

Republican <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="David McCormick" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2022/11/29/dave-mccormick-book-battle-plan" data-vars-content-id="6e41b1fe-7eb0-46df-b928-d30b1192c21b" data-vars-headline="Top GOP recruit David McCormick launches Pennsylvania Senate campaign" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2022/11/29/dave-mccormick-book-battle-plan" target="_self">David McCormick</a> — a former hedge fund CEO and the runner-up in last year&#x27;s Pennsylvania Senate primary — is launching a second campaign, making it clear he plans to run against <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="President Biden" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/joe-biden" data-vars-content-id="6e41b1fe-7eb0-46df-b928-d30b1192c21b" data-vars-headline="Top GOP recruit David McCormick launches Pennsylvania Senate campaign" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/joe-biden" target="_self">President Biden</a> as much as incumbent Sen. Bob Casey (D-Pa.).Driving the news: McCormick took aim at Biden in his official campaign announcement Thursday evening, while accusing Casey of being the president&#x27;s &quot;rubber stamp.&quot;

Biden announces $325 million in Ukraine aid during Zelensky visit

Zelensky's visit to D.C. comes at a crucial moment for Ukraine.

World

President Biden announced a new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="$325 million aid package" data-vars-click-url="https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3534283/biden-administration-announces-additional-security-assistance-for-ukraine/" data-vars-content-id="a3cda933-c8e0-4b19-9695-3f2d2ceed6eb" data-vars-headline="Biden announces $325 million in Ukraine aid during Zelensky visit" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3534283/biden-administration-announces-additional-security-assistance-for-ukraine/" target="_blank">$325 million aid package</a> for Ukraine during Ukrainian President <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Volodymyr Zelensky&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/19/zelensky-russia-un-children-kidnap-genocide" data-vars-content-id="a3cda933-c8e0-4b19-9695-3f2d2ceed6eb" data-vars-headline="Biden announces $325 million in Ukraine aid during Zelensky visit" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/19/zelensky-russia-un-children-kidnap-genocide" target="_self">Volodymyr Zelensky&#x27;s</a> visit Thursday.Why it matters: Zelensky&#x27;s visit comes at a crucial moment for Ukraine, as it seeks to shore up support and secure <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="additional funding" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/08/10/biden-ukraine-aid-republicans-gop" data-vars-content-id="a3cda933-c8e0-4b19-9695-3f2d2ceed6eb" data-vars-headline="Biden announces $325 million in Ukraine aid during Zelensky visit" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/08/10/biden-ukraine-aid-republicans-gop" target="_self">additional funding</a> for its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="counteroffensive" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/06/08/what-watch-ukraine-counteroffensive-latest" data-vars-content-id="a3cda933-c8e0-4b19-9695-3f2d2ceed6eb" data-vars-headline="Biden announces $325 million in Ukraine aid during Zelensky visit" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/06/08/what-watch-ukraine-counteroffensive-latest" target="_self">counteroffensive</a> against Russia.

Presidents Biden and Zelensky with first ladies Jill Biden and Olena Zelenska at the White House on Sept. 21.

Biden admin offers thousands of Afghan refugees temporary protections

Thousands refugees will not have to face returning to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Department of Homeland Security" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/12/homeland-security-drones-chemical-attack-terrorists" data-vars-content-id="ed34d8d5-2d6c-477b-abeb-de450f770659" data-vars-headline="Biden admin offers thousands of Afghan refugees temporary protections" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/12/homeland-security-drones-chemical-attack-terrorists" target="_self">Department of Homeland Security</a> (DHS) on Thursday <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="extended" data-vars-click-url="https://www.dhs.gov/news/2023/09/21/secretary-mayorkas-announces-extension-and-redesignation-afghanistan-temporary" data-vars-content-id="ed34d8d5-2d6c-477b-abeb-de450f770659" data-vars-headline="Biden admin offers thousands of Afghan refugees temporary protections" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.dhs.gov/news/2023/09/21/secretary-mayorkas-announces-extension-and-redesignation-afghanistan-temporary" target="_blank">extended</a> deportation protections for Afghan refugees who fled their homes after the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="U.S. fully withdrew" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/04/06/us-report-afghanistan-withdrawal-evacuation-late" data-vars-content-id="ed34d8d5-2d6c-477b-abeb-de450f770659" data-vars-headline="Biden admin offers thousands of Afghan refugees temporary protections" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/04/06/us-report-afghanistan-withdrawal-evacuation-late" target="_self">U.S. fully withdrew</a> its forces from Afghanistan in August 2021.Why it matters: Because of the extensions, thousands of refugees without proper documentation will not have to face the prospect of returning to Afghanistan and live under the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Taliban&#x27;s draconian government" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2022/08/15/afghanistan-taliban-us-withdrawal-anniversary" data-vars-content-id="ed34d8d5-2d6c-477b-abeb-de450f770659" data-vars-headline="Biden admin offers thousands of Afghan refugees temporary protections" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2022/08/15/afghanistan-taliban-us-withdrawal-anniversary" target="_self">Taliban&#x27;s draconian government</a> for another 18 months.

U.S. military police walking past Afghan refugees at an Army base in Ft. McCoy, Wisconsin, in September 2021.

All U.S. national parks to offer free entrance Saturday

All national parks across the country will waive admissions fees for the day.

Energy & Environment

All national parks will <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="waive admissions fees" data-vars-click-url="https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/fee-free-parks.htm" data-vars-content-id="1a353393-c359-4804-8636-1f17400d50da" data-vars-headline="All U.S. national parks to offer free entrance Saturday" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/fee-free-parks.htm" target="_blank">waive admissions fees</a> on Saturday, making 84 million acres of nature more accessible to the public.Why it matters: National Public Lands Day is one of five days when the National Park Service offers free entrance.

How media mogul Rupert Murdoch made his billions

By 2013, Forbes said Murdoch was the richest foreign-born person in the U.S.

Economy & Business

Billionaire Rupert Murdoch announced Thursday he will <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="step down" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/21/rupert-murdoch-steps-down-fox-corp-news-corp" data-vars-content-id="0e5391bd-8bd4-4cb9-95b8-0515538fd8eb" data-vars-headline="How media mogul Rupert Murdoch made his billions" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/21/rupert-murdoch-steps-down-fox-corp-news-corp" target="_self">step down</a> as chairman of Fox Corp. and News Corp., ending his reign as one of the wealthiest media moguls of all time.Why it matters: Murdoch, 92, built his fortune through a series of pragmatic and ruthless maneuvers that earned him a reputation as one of the most successful dealmakers in the media industry.

A guide to Boston's hidden gem restaurants

Food and Drink

Chris Evans' Boston wedding brings the Avengers to town

Chris Evans' nuptials brought Downey, Johansson, Hemsworth and Renner to Boston

Culture

Massachusetts' peak fall foliage schedule

When and where the good leaf peeping will be.

Things to Do

MBTA saw slower summer service as repairs mount

Slow zones on the MBTA led to longer delays this summer.

Transit

There's a business bounceback around Boston

It's a good measure of economic sentiment.

Business

More than 700 new businesses were registered on Yelp across the Boston metro area in July 2023, per the company, up 21.5% year over year.Why it matters: New business openings are a good measure of economic sentiment — people generally don&#x27;t take the risk of spinning up a new venture if they foresee economic peril ahead.

A data visualization showing that the number of business openings on Yelp in the Boston metro area was 729 in July 2023, up from the previous month and up from 2022 year-over-year. 

First Massachusetts NFL season with legal sports betting kicks off

It's the first NFL season with legal betting in Massachusetts

Sports

This NFL season will not only be a major test for New England Patriots quarterback Mac Jones, but also for sportsbooks in Massachusetts.Why it matters: The gaming industry is closely watching how the pro football season influences Massachusetts&#x27; first year of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="legalized sports betting" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2023/01/30/sports-betting-massachusetts-guide" data-vars-content-id="90519036-1fde-403e-9473-89b6734e786d" data-vars-headline="First Massachusetts NFL season with legal sports betting kicks off" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2023/01/30/sports-betting-massachusetts-guide" target="_self">legalized sports betting</a>.

Animated illustration of two flying football helmets colliding and leaving behind a smoky dollar sign.

Massachusetts' new EV rebates cover used cars, down payments

The state is trying to wean residents off fossil fuels.

Climate

Massachusetts now offers rebates for residents buying used electric cars, thanks to last year&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="climate law" data-vars-click-url="https://www.bdlaw.com/publications/net-zero-by-2050-massachusetts-passes-new-climate-clean-energy-bill/#:~:text=On%20August%2011%2C%202022%2C%20Massachusetts,greenhouse%20gas%20(GHG)%20emissions." data-vars-content-id="e94f1a42-7b16-4b76-9815-96f8ffb39109" data-vars-headline="Massachusetts&#x27; new EV rebates cover used cars, down payments" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.bdlaw.com/publications/net-zero-by-2050-massachusetts-passes-new-climate-clean-energy-bill/#:~:text=On%20August%2011%2C%202022%2C%20Massachusetts,greenhouse%20gas%20(GHG)%20emissions." target="_blank">climate law</a>.Why it matters: The rebates are one of several ways Massachusetts is trying to wean residents off fossil fuels and meet its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="climate goals" data-vars-click-url="https://netzeroma.org/#:~:text=The%20Next%20Generation%20Roadmap%20Act,net%20zero%20emissions%20by%202050." data-vars-content-id="e94f1a42-7b16-4b76-9815-96f8ffb39109" data-vars-headline="Massachusetts&#x27; new EV rebates cover used cars, down payments" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://netzeroma.org/#:~:text=The%20Next%20Generation%20Roadmap%20Act,net%20zero%20emissions%20by%202050." target="_blank">climate goals</a>, including a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="2025 deadline" data-vars-click-url="https://www.mass.gov/info-details/zero-emission-vehicle-zev-commission#:~:text=These%20states%20released%20a%20collaborative,in%20the%20state%20by%202025." data-vars-content-id="e94f1a42-7b16-4b76-9815-96f8ffb39109" data-vars-headline="Massachusetts&#x27; new EV rebates cover used cars, down payments" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.mass.gov/info-details/zero-emission-vehicle-zev-commission#:~:text=These%20states%20released%20a%20collaborative,in%20the%20state%20by%202025." target="_blank">2025 deadline</a> to reach 300,000 zero-emission vehicles.

Illustration of an electric vehicle plugged in, the charging wire has dollar bill signs running inside of it towards the car. 

Scrutinized Boston City Councilors lose preliminary elections

Arroyo and Lara concede seats after messy council terms.

Politics

Two <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="embattled incumbent" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2023/09/05/chaotic-council-faces-the-voters" data-vars-content-id="301d3742-f1ef-4b07-808b-ca743a63da1c" data-vars-headline="Scrutinized Boston City Councilors lose preliminary elections" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2023/09/05/chaotic-council-faces-the-voters" target="_self">embattled incumbent</a> Boston City Councilors conceded their races in yesterday&#x27;s preliminary election, setting up November showdowns between newcomers in the District 5 and 6 races.Why it matters: The rare incumbent upsets appear to indicate the scandals plaguing Councilors Kendra Lara and Ricardo Arroyo were too much for voters to take.

Sumner Tunnel to reopen Friday, followed by more closures

News

The Sumner Tunnel will reopen to motorists Friday — just in time for the holiday weekend.Why it matters: The end of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="two-month closure" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2023/06/29/sumner-tunnel-closure-eastie-chelsea" data-vars-content-id="ec9166c6-4dd1-4b70-887e-53783ae6f646" data-vars-headline="Sumner Tunnel to reopen Friday, followed by more closures" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2023/06/29/sumner-tunnel-closure-eastie-chelsea" target="_self">two-month closure</a> brings relief to motorists traveling between East Boston and the rest of the city, including those trying to make their flights at Logan Airport.

A construction worker in the Sumner Tunnel while it's closed this summer for repairs. 

Massachusetts transportation head Gina Fiandaca to depart after seven months

News of Gina Fiandaca's departure comes just seven months into her tenure.

Massachusetts Transportation Secretary Gina Fiandaca is stepping down.Why it matters: Fiandaca will become the first official to leave Gov. Maura Healey&#x27;s cabinet, just over <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="seven months" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2023/01/05/maura-healey-cabinet-positions" data-vars-content-id="171082c5-d5eb-47fb-8822-51ec5deb97a4" data-vars-headline="Massachusetts transportation head Gina Fiandaca to depart after seven months" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2023/01/05/maura-healey-cabinet-positions" target="_self">seven months</a> into the job.

A photo of Gina Fiandaca's head as she's in a press conference in January after being named Healey's next transportation secretary

Boston apartment construction's steady decline

Metro area home-builders have been slowing down.

Real Estate

Roughly 5,593 new apartment units are expected in the greater Boston area this year, just over half the units that were built in 2020, according to a new report.Driving the news: Boston has seen a steady decline in new apartment construction in the last three years, per a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="RentCafe" data-vars-click-url="https://www.rentcafe.com/blog/rental-market/market-snapshots/new-apartment-construction/" data-vars-content-id="844e21b8-b8d5-4bbf-b38b-669a9fd9cab6" data-vars-headline="Boston apartment construction&#x27;s steady decline" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.rentcafe.com/blog/rental-market/market-snapshots/new-apartment-construction/" target="_blank">RentCafe</a> analysis of data from real estate intelligence service Yardi Matrix.

Poll: Your Massachusetts backup plan

Obviously Massachusetts is the best place to live — but if you couldn&#x27;t call the Commonwealth home anymore, where would you go?

Illustration of a turkey pulling a suitcase. 

Massachusetts expands legal services for migrants amid surge

The legal services aim to get migrants' applications filed faster so they can find legal work sooner.

Massachusetts is spending $2 million to expand state-funded legal services for migrants in response to the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="surge" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2023/08/11/massachusetts-migrant-shelter-crisis-response" data-vars-content-id="2bcde099-8211-4afb-8519-5ed4e6b84a97" data-vars-headline="Massachusetts expands legal services for migrants amid surge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2023/08/11/massachusetts-migrant-shelter-crisis-response" target="_self">surge</a> of new arrivals.Why it matters: Legal help speeds up migrant applications for relief and work permits so they can find work and transition out of shelters sooner, thereby alleviating the strain on the state.

Illustration of a cutout of a heart in the middle of a suitcase.

Ibram X. Kendi defends antiracism center, says layoffs "devastated" him

Boston University announced it's looking into allegations by former staff about the center's work culture.

American author and antiracism scholar Ibram X. Kendi tells Axios the recent layoffs at the Boston University Center for Antiracist Research that he founded &quot;devastated&quot; him.<ul><li>He called this week&#x27;s allegations of mistreatment from former staff &quot;baseless.&quot;</li></ul>Why it matters: The scrutiny has cast a shadow over what has become one of the nation&#x27;s preeminent centers focused on antiracism, which launched following <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="George Floyd&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2020/05/30/george-floyd-protests-us-cities-everything-to-know" data-vars-content-id="8ddf542d-376e-4328-bc3f-ec3ba263eb5f" data-vars-headline="Ibram X. Kendi defends antiracism center, says layoffs &quot;devastated&quot; him" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2020/05/30/george-floyd-protests-us-cities-everything-to-know" target="_self">George Floyd&#x27;s</a> murder by Minneapolis police in 2020.

Ibram X. Kendi speaks onstage during Netflix's "Stamped From The Beginning" world premiere during the Toronto International Film Festival at TIFF Bell Lightbox on September 09, 2023 in Toronto, Ontario. 

Boston films, Somerville Dog Festival and more things to do this weekend

This weekend marks the start of fall, and there&#x27;s plenty to do in the Boston area.

Illustration of lit marquee letters spelling "WEEKEND" sitting in a row of theater seats.

A clash over gun rights is headed for Beacon Hill

2nd Amendment activists are trying to stop House Democrats' gun control push.

Gun owners are ready to fight back against Beacon Hill as Democrats plan a push for stronger firearm control laws during next year&#x27;s legislative session.Why it matters: Massachusetts already has some of the country&#x27;s toughest gun laws and its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="lowest firearm death rate" data-vars-click-url="https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/pressroom/sosmap/firearm_mortality/firearm.htm" data-vars-content-id="e0ecd286-de8a-4ab9-8f5d-31e3edb3d230" data-vars-headline="A clash over gun rights is headed for Beacon Hill" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/pressroom/sosmap/firearm_mortality/firearm.htm" target="_blank">lowest firearm death rate</a>, but lawmakers want to drive that rate down further and establish the strongest laws in the nation.

Illustration of an outline where a gun should be held. 

Boston Unity brings women's soccer back to town

The league will bring pro women's soccer to Boston for the first time in nearly a decade.

It&#x27;s official. Boston will have professional women&#x27;s soccer again.Driving the news: The Boston Unity Soccer Club will <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="take the field in 2026" data-vars-click-url="https://www.bostonglobe.com/2023/09/18/sports/nwsl-boston/" data-vars-content-id="0bac2991-23f2-4cb0-99d9-2a5327aa6086" data-vars-headline="Boston Unity brings women&#x27;s soccer back to town" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.bostonglobe.com/2023/09/18/sports/nwsl-boston/" target="_blank">take the field in 2026</a> as part of the National Women&#x27;s Soccer League (NWSL), Jennifer Epstein, controlling manager of Boston Unity Soccer Partners said on Tuesday.

Illustration of a seagull standing on a soccer ball.

How to get free Paxlovid in Massachusetts

You can get the treatment at no cost with just a couple steps on your part.

👋 Steph here. When I tested positive for COVID-19 last week, I assumed the state&#x27;s hotline and resources had all vanished at this stage of the pandemic.<ul><li>Fortunately, I was wrong.</li></ul>Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="COVID-19 cases" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2023/08/03/covid-summer-cases-wastewater" data-vars-content-id="fc13fa73-4037-44dc-ac78-dba8466fda5e" data-vars-headline="How to get free Paxlovid in Massachusetts" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2023/08/03/covid-summer-cases-wastewater" target="_self">COVID-19 cases</a> are on the rise again, and the state can get you Paxlovid with just a couple steps on your part.

Someone with clear gloves holds out the package of Paxlovid tablets next to two Paxlovid boxes.

What Massachusetts could expect from Hurricane Lee

Cape Cod residents are preparing for the worst.

A tropical storm warning <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="is in effect" data-vars-click-url="https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?warnzone=MAZ015&amp;warncounty=MAC025&amp;firewxzone=MAZ015&amp;local_place1https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?warnzone=MAZ015&amp;warncounty=MAC025&amp;firewxzone=MAZ015&amp;local_place1=Jamaica%20Plain%20MA&amp;product1=Tropical+Storm+Warning&amp;lat=42.3&amp;lon=-71.1167" data-vars-content-id="74776b22-46a8-499f-bdd5-87183dd43002" data-vars-headline="What Massachusetts could expect from Hurricane Lee" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?warnzone=MAZ015&amp;warncounty=MAC025&amp;firewxzone=MAZ015&amp;local_place1https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?warnzone=MAZ015&amp;warncounty=MAC025&amp;firewxzone=MAZ015&amp;local_place1=Jamaica%20Plain%20MA&amp;product1=Tropical+Storm+Warning&amp;lat=42.3&amp;lon=-71.1167" target="_blank">is in effect</a> in Boston, Cape Cod and Martha&#x27;s Vineyard as Hurricane Lee makes its way through the Atlantic toward New England and Canada.Driving the news: Massachusetts is outside Lee&#x27;s likely <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="path" data-vars-click-url="https://link.axios.com/click/32692859.1286/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYXhpb3MuY29tL2JyaWRnZT91cmw9aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cubmhjLm5vYWEuZ292L3JlZnJlc2gvZ3JhcGhpY3NfYXQzJTJCc2h0bWwvMDIzOTQxLnNodG1sP2dtX3RyYWNrJnM9MTI0NjYzJm49ZTI4NWY3YmImdD1jNTdkOWFlMzU1NjUxMmUzNThmZmM3NWIyYTI5ZjFjYmEzNjkyYmJmJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9bmV3c2xldHRlciZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9jYW1wYWlnbj1uZXdzbGV0dGVyX2F4aW9zbG9jYWxfYm9zdG9uJnN0cmVhbT10b3A/623e1cab6ade791edf266697L73374f66" data-vars-content-id="74776b22-46a8-499f-bdd5-87183dd43002" data-vars-headline="What Massachusetts could expect from Hurricane Lee" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://link.axios.com/click/32692859.1286/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYXhpb3MuY29tL2JyaWRnZT91cmw9aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cubmhjLm5vYWEuZ292L3JlZnJlc2gvZ3JhcGhpY3NfYXQzJTJCc2h0bWwvMDIzOTQxLnNodG1sP2dtX3RyYWNrJnM9MTI0NjYzJm49ZTI4NWY3YmImdD1jNTdkOWFlMzU1NjUxMmUzNThmZmM3NWIyYTI5ZjFjYmEzNjkyYmJmJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9bmV3c2xldHRlciZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9jYW1wYWlnbj1uZXdzbGV0dGVyX2F4aW9zbG9jYWxfYm9zdG9uJnN0cmVhbT10b3A/623e1cab6ade791edf266697L73374f66" target="_blank">path</a>, but Cape Cod residents are <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="preparing for the worst" data-vars-click-url="https://www.capecodtimes.com/story/news/disaster/2023/09/14/dont-wait-last-minute-cape-cod-harbormasters-advise-hurricane-lee/70840575007/" data-vars-content-id="74776b22-46a8-499f-bdd5-87183dd43002" data-vars-headline="What Massachusetts could expect from Hurricane Lee" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.capecodtimes.com/story/news/disaster/2023/09/14/dont-wait-last-minute-cape-cod-harbormasters-advise-hurricane-lee/70840575007/" target="_blank">preparing for the worst</a>.

Massachusetts' average electrical outages grows

Massachusetts' outage-hours average surpassed the national average in 2021.

Last weekend&#x27;s storms reminded thousands in Massachusetts of how vulnerable our <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="aging electrical infrastructure" data-vars-click-url="https://www.telegram.com/story/business/2017/07/23/utilities-spend-millions-replace-pipes-lay-new-wires-and-update-infrastructure-central-massachusetts/20089452007/" data-vars-content-id="b087f43c-c0c4-4efb-ab35-ca6996cfb0a1" data-vars-headline="Massachusetts&#x27; average electrical outages grows" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.telegram.com/story/business/2017/07/23/utilities-spend-millions-replace-pipes-lay-new-wires-and-update-infrastructure-central-massachusetts/20089452007/" target="_blank">aging electrical infrastructure</a> is in severe weather.<ul><li>And its vulnerability has become more apparent over the past decade.</li></ul>

A line chart comparing electrical outage hours for the average Massachusetts customer versus the U.S. average. Massachusetts' has been higher on and off in recent years.

Work permit delays exacerbate Massachusetts' migrant crisis

Delays are leaving migrants languishing in shelters.

Thousands of migrants continue <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="languishing" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2023/08/08/massachusetts-state-emergency-migrants" data-vars-content-id="9a9ef398-ef1c-44b6-a169-817c414d4a07" data-vars-headline="Work permit delays exacerbate Massachusetts&#x27; migrant crisis" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2023/08/08/massachusetts-state-emergency-migrants" target="_self">languishing</a> in Massachusetts&#x27; emergency family shelter system, in part because of monthslong delays for federal work permits.Why it matters: Without the green light to legally work, migrants can&#x27;t save up money to transition out of shelters.<ul><li>This creates a bottleneck as more families arrive seeking help, and it&#x27;s a scenario playing out across the country, as Steph <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="reported" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/05/biden-migrant-crisis-political-disaster" data-vars-content-id="9a9ef398-ef1c-44b6-a169-817c414d4a07" data-vars-headline="Work permit delays exacerbate Massachusetts&#x27; migrant crisis" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/05/biden-migrant-crisis-political-disaster" target="_self">reported</a> with Axios&#x27; Monica Eng, Stef Kight and Caitlin Owens.</li></ul>

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How to beat Boston traffic this Labor Day weekend

Thursday afternoon is projected to be the busiest time on the road ahead of Labor Day weekend, especially if you&#x27;re headed down the Cape.Driving the news: Peak congestion is expected Thursday around 3:30pm on the main route between Boston and Hyannis along I-93 and Route 6, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="according to INRIX" data-vars-click-url="https://newsroom.aaa.com/2023/08/travelers-mark-unofficial-end-of-summer-over-labor-day-weekend/" data-vars-content-id="73f37a43-f104-4b8f-86a5-ed66d6f2b146" data-vars-headline="How to beat Boston traffic this Labor Day weekend" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://newsroom.aaa.com/2023/08/travelers-mark-unofficial-end-of-summer-over-labor-day-weekend/" target="_blank">according to INRIX</a>, a global provider of transportation data that works with AAA to find the best/worst car travel times.

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How to celebrate Oktoberfest at Boston-area breweries

Grab a stein and head to the many breweries and bars hosting events.

Grab your stein and get a drink at one of many Boston-area breweries and bars celebrating Oktoberfest this fall.

A close up on a stein with the Samuel Adams Oktoberfest beer logo with three men in the background.

Boston concerts this week: Billy Joel, Stevie Nicks, Hozier, Tegan and Sara and more

Plus: The Breeders, Hozier and Henry Rollins

Billy Joel and Stevie Nicks join forces at Gillette Stadium this week and there&#x27;re plenty of other big acts and local artists in town, too.

Zildjian cymbals celebrates 400 years with a concert

One of the world's preeminent cymbal manufacturers, Zildjian will mark its quadricentennial.

One of the world&#x27;s preeminent cymbal manufacturers, Zildjian will celebrate its quadricentennial Wednesday with a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="concert at Roadrunner" data-vars-click-url="https://roadrunnerboston.com/events/detail/?event_id=492665" data-vars-content-id="1977d531-b428-485c-aca9-50c3c85e17b5" data-vars-headline="Zildjian cymbals celebrates 400 years with a concert" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://roadrunnerboston.com/events/detail/?event_id=492665" target="_blank">concert at Roadrunner</a> hosted by drummer and comedian Fred Armisen.<ul><li>In the 20th century, the Zildjian family made its way to Boston and eventually to Norwell, where the company is now headquartered.</li></ul>

The Big E returns with New England's finest fried food

New England's multi-state fair opens Friday.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Big E" data-vars-click-url="https://www.thebige.com/p/generalinfo/bigeinfo" data-vars-content-id="717b75da-4cdb-435d-9b8b-b0ecd3235fed" data-vars-headline="The Big E returns with New England&#x27;s finest fried food" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.thebige.com/p/generalinfo/bigeinfo" target="_blank">Big E</a>, New England&#x27;s multi-state fair opens Friday with all the deep-fried nonsense food, carnival rides and aging rock stars you could wish for.Why it matters: The Eastern States Exposition is a showcase for New England&#x27;s agricultural exports and local products.

Gaming is on the rise in Boston's nightlife scene

An inclusive nightlife industry also speaks to locals who are into gaming, escape rooms and more.

🎙️ This story is part of Axios&#x27; collaboration with GBH News about <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Boston&#x27;s nightlife" data-vars-click-url="https://www.wgbh.org/tags/nightlife-in-boston" data-vars-content-id="16423a7f-0838-483e-aead-0a16174df9da" data-vars-headline="Gaming is on the rise in Boston&#x27;s nightlife scene" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.wgbh.org/tags/nightlife-in-boston" target="_blank">Boston&#x27;s nightlife</a>. The Boston area has seen a rise in nightlife options for gamers and other hobbyists in the last decade.

Illustration of a disco ball shaped like a 20-sided die.

Zadie Smith, new art exhibits and more happening in Boston week

It's a five-day week again, and there's plenty happening around Boston.

It&#x27;s a five-day week again, and there&#x27;s plenty happening around Boston that&#x27;s worth putting on your calendar.

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Inside Gufo, Cambridge's new Italian eatery

Go for the mortadella, stay for the delicious pie.

👋🏼 Steph here. Gufo, the new Italian restaurant in Cambridge, has fresh pasta and lightly fried dough with prosciutto and garlic butter.<ul><li>But what won me over was the pizza.</li></ul>

Gufo's roasted mushroom pizza with fontina and roasted garlic is served on a platter at a table.

Boston's liquor license system is dragging down its nightlife scene

Officials want to issue new licenses in Dorchester and five other neighborhoods.

One of the biggest hurdles faced by would-be dining and nightlife entrepreneurs is the limited supply of liquor licenses available in the city.Why it matters: The dearth of licenses is a major contributor to Boston&#x27;s languid late-night scene.

Illustration of a cocktail glass with a dollar-sign-shaped orange twist

Harpoon Brewery launches pickleball club

It has four pickleball courts, two shuffleboard courts and cornhole.

Harpoon Brewery has hopped on the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="pickleball" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/04/07/pickleball-courts-noise-tennis-turf-wars" data-vars-content-id="61c2e87a-a74d-4309-857d-68ec251f25e3" data-vars-headline="Harpoon Brewery launches pickleball club" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/04/07/pickleball-courts-noise-tennis-turf-wars" target="_self">pickleball</a> train.What’s happening: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Pickleball Social Club" data-vars-click-url="https://hubsportsboston.com/pickleball-social-club" data-vars-content-id="61c2e87a-a74d-4309-857d-68ec251f25e3" data-vars-headline="Harpoon Brewery launches pickleball club" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://hubsportsboston.com/pickleball-social-club" target="_blank">The Pickleball Social Club</a> is open daily from noon to 9pm with room for some 400 people next to Harpoon in the Seaport.

A wide view showing four pickleball courts and shuffleboard courts next to Harpoon Brewery in Boston's Seaport.

I Spy: Kura Sushi coming soon to Dorchester

Kura is coming to Dorchester, months after opening a location in Watertown.

👀 Steph here with our first installment of &quot;I Spy,&quot; a series about what&#x27;s popping up around town.What&#x27;s happening: I spotted Kura Revolving Sushi Bar under construction at the South Bay Shopping Center in Dorchester, and it can&#x27;t open soon enough.

A Kura sushi outpost under construction in Dorchester's South Bay Shopping Plaza

Try these fish tacos in the Back Bay

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Cusser&#x27;s Roast Beef" data-vars-click-url="https://www.cussersboston.com/" data-vars-content-id="bf09fd8b-d0ae-487b-984f-adb62b64ccf8" data-vars-headline="Try these fish tacos in the Back Bay" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.cussersboston.com/" target="_blank">Cusser&#x27;s Roast Beef</a> and Seafood in the Back Bay offers beer-battered fish of the day, pickled red onions, slaw and their house-special Thoreau sauce on corn tortillas.<ul><li>Two tacos are $13.</li></ul>Why it&#x27;s worth a visit: The white fish is meaty and a lighter alternative to the $17 fish and chips platter or the $12.75 rare roast beef sandwich.

Ask Axios: Why Boston has no Happy Hours

Newcomers to Boston are often gobsmacked when they find out that, to us, &quot;happy hour&quot; just means discounted appetizers at bars and restaurants.<ul><li>That&#x27;s because Massachusetts became the first state in the country to ban low-price promotions for alcohol in 1984 as a way to deter drunk driving.</li></ul>

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