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Boston Globe
12-05-2025
- General
- Boston Globe
The seminal battle of the Revolutionary War, as seen through a Globe photographer's lens
Send questions or suggestions to the Starting Point team at . If you'd like the newsletter sent to your inbox, . TODAY'S STARTING POINT Early on the morning of April 19, dawn's light revealed that all sides had come armed and ready. British redcoats, marching in formation to the beat of a drum, wielded muskets tipped with bayonets, powder horns and cartridge boxes slung at their waists. The stern-faced militiamen blocking their advance, who had begun massing on the grassy common of the small town of Lexington earlier that morning, held guns of their own. Advertisement And about 20 feet away, perched on a riser, a Boston Globe photographer armed with a Canon 1D X Mark ll raised his camera and started shooting. History remembers the 1775 battle of Lexington, sparked by a single shot of unknown origin, as the first military engagement of the American Revolution. For decades, reenactors on both sides have acted out the skirmish, an effort to stop the British Army from reaching a military supplies stockpile in the nearby town of Concord that left eight colonists dead. Last month, the battle's 250th anniversary saw reenactors dressed as British regulars facing off against a motley crew of colonists before tens of thousands of spectators. Many of the reenactors there that day — like Michael Graves of Chelmsford, a University of Massachusetts Lowell biology professor Advertisement Luckily, John had a veteran of his own to consult: Joanne Rathe Strohmeyer, a now-retired colleague who photographed the Lexington reenactment for years. 'She told me it was going to go from darkness to dawn really quickly, which it did, and to just keep shooting when the troops raise their guns,' says John. 'The gun blast was loud and brilliant and she was so right.' John took the above photo, (For the photographers reading this: The ISO was 4000 and the shutter speed was 1/1000 at f-stop 2.8 using a 70-200 mm zoom lens at a focal length set of 70mm. John shot on automatic exposure using a 1-stop underexposure.) That image isn't the only one from the Lexington reenactment in the Globe's April Photos of the Month. Another of John's shots — Advertisement Reenactments also weren't the only annual rites that Bostonians observed last month. In one of the Globe's other best photos, David Ryan captured a German runner named Marc Tortell starting off the 129th Boston Marathon in Hopkinton in high spirits, arms akimbo and orange hair spiked into a peppy crown. And there was Opening Day at Fenway Park, during which Stan Grossfeld photographed Hall of Famers Carl Yastrzemski and Carlton Fisk, members of the 1975 team, saluting fans. Here are those celebratory photos from last month. I recommend checking out the rest of Caption Minutemen reenactors fired back at advancing British troops on Lexington Battle Green during the 250th anniversary of the historic first battle of the American Revolution. (John Tlumacki/Globe Staff) 1 of 5 🧩 6 Across: | ☀️ 72° POINTS OF INTEREST Lisa Boyce holds a photograph of her late husband, Kevin, who died of a tick-borne disease. Suzanne Kreiter/Globe Staff Boston and Massachusetts Health disparity: Patients taking weight-loss drugs in Massachusetts Hidden danger: After a rare tick-borne virus killed her husband, she wants people to understand that illnesses transmitted by the pests Kitty Dukakis: A video of former governor Michael Dukakis Mixed reviews: After almost $19 million and two years of construction, Hurry up and wait: Speeding trains have gotten into accidents on the Green Line. But the T still RIT in the T: Rochester Institute of Technology is 400 miles from Boston, yet Trump administration Plane dealer: The Trump administration plans to accept a luxury jet from Qatar to use as Air Force One, which critics said violates the Constitution's ban on foreign gifts. ( Trump's agenda: House Republicans unveiled legislation that would cut Medicaid to help pay for Trump's tax bill. The cuts, in the form of new work and eligibility requirements, would cause 8.6 million people to lose health insurance, an estimate found. ( Israel-Hamas war: Hamas agreed to release an American-Israeli hostage. Trump called it a 'good faith' step toward ending the war in Gaza. ( No-fly zone: President Trump's transportation secretary plans to reduce the number of flights in and out of Newark airport as it struggles with radar outages and delays. ( 'Constantly anxious': Immigration lawyers Trump vs. Harvard: From hospitals to startups, the university helps fuel Greater Boston's economy, Arrested development: Trump's cuts to federal research grants Higher ed: Steel and lumber tariffs The Nation and the World Supreme Court: From medical care for transgender minors to birthright citizenship, here are the major cases India vs. Pakistan: Both countries claimed victory after a ceasefire took hold yesterday, bringing the two nuclear-armed nations back from the brink of war. ( Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine's president said he'd meet with Russia's leader in Turkey this week to negotiate peace, but called for a ceasefire to begin today. ( BESIDE THE POINT By Teresa Hanafin 🏨 Understated style: TripAdvisor readers say 🧠 Minds at ease: More employees want mental health benefits as part of a company's medical package, with flexible work schedules and financial counseling at the top of the list. ( ⭐️ Good food: The Michelin Guide and its anonymous inspectors are coming to Boston, and restaurant critic Devra First thinks Advertisement 🥘 Distinctive cuisine: Speaking of good food, reporter Alexa Gagosz went to New England's largest Taiwanese festival recently. 🐑 Man or beast: New Zealand is one of a handful of countries in the world that still has more sheep than people. But humans are catching up. ( 📚 Meet the writer: Sara Franklin is at the Boston Athenaeum, Ria Brodell is in Somerville, and Thanks for reading Starting Point. This newsletter was edited by ❓ Have a question for the team? Email us at ✍🏼 If someone sent you this newsletter, you can 📬 Delivered Monday through Friday. Ian Prasad Philbrick can be reached at
National Geographic
05-03-2025
- National Geographic
Mobility aids for accessible travel
By clicking on the featured links, visitors will leave and be directed to third-party e-commerce sites that operate under different terms and privacy policies. As a participant in multiple affiliate marketing programs, National Geographic will earn a commission for certain purchases. See full disclaimer below.* I love exploring new places and enjoying adventures with family and friends. However, as a stroke survivor with autoimmune diseases as well as assorted back and leg issues, mobility considerations—sometimes accompanied by muscle aches and/or joint pain—are a part of my daily life. I also experience frequent vertigo that can make me lose my balance or fall. These are all factors I must consider when planning a trip. Additionally, I help care for, and sometimes travel with, loved ones with an assortment of health conditions, including multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and Parkinson's disease. Thankfully, I've found a variety of products that have helped me, my friends, and family members get around, especially while traveling. It's important to note that none of these products 'cured' or solved our mobility challenges, and what works for me may not work for everyone. But I've researched and tried many products. The following products have made travel easier for me and my loved ones. The best travel accessories for mobility issues As someone with mobility issues who travels frequently, I have had to search for durable, easy-to-operate products that can help me get around. From a packable walking cane to a portable massager, these are the items I have found most helpful for travel. Packable walking cane: CVS Health Take Along Folding Cane by Michael Graves Design CVS Health Take Along Folding Cane Buy it now at CVS I bought one of these CVS Health canes after seeing actress Selma Blair —who has mobility challenges as a result of multiple sclerosis—post about it on Instagram. I like that it's lightweight and folds up, which makes it easy to take anywhere. It comes with two interchangeable feet options. It's sturdy enough for me, but some people may prefer something heavier. I wish it came with a carrying bag. Walker tote bag: RMS Water-Resistant Tote Bag Photograph courtesy Amazon RMS Walker Tote Bag Buy it now on Amazon This tote bag fits on most walkers. I avoid loading it down with anything too heavy. It's the right size for carrying a few essentials such as a book, notepad, and medications. I like the zippered pocket for securing things like your cellphone or keys. Walker tray: Essential Medical Supply Molded Walker Tray Photograph courtesy Amazon Essential Medical Supply Walker Tray Buy it now on Amazon Made from molded plastic, this tray feels sturdy and is easy to clean. I've used it with different walkers for several relatives, so it seems to have a universal design. It's lightweight enough for travel and easily slides right on top of the walker handles. The lip around the edge contains messes and helps prevent things from rolling off. Travel neck pillow: Cabeau The Neck's Evolution S3 Neck Pillow Photograph courtesy Amazon Cabeau The Neck's Evolution S3 Neck Pillow Buy it now on Amazon I've been traveling long distance for the past 10 years, which has been brutal on my neck and shoulders. This Cabeau neck pillow has helped me get the rest I need on planes and trains. The sides are tall enough to prevent my head from flopping around from side to side. Space in the front keeps the neck pillow from feeling too stifling. It comes with a washable cover in lots of colors. ( Get the rest you need with the right travel pillow ) Foldable grabber: RMS Extra Long Grabber Photograph courtesy Amazon RMS Extra Long Grabber Buy it now on Amazon Some grabbers I've used have been too short, forcing me to bend down or hunch over, which defeats the purpose of a grabber. This one is long enough to reach things easily and has a solid grip for hanging onto even small items. Because it folds up, it's easy to store (I keep a bunch throughout the house, in the garage, and in our travel bags) and take on trips. I have found that the plastic at the 'jaw' part eventually starts to wear, but this grabber is inexpensive enough to replace when needed. ( Here are some great products for arthritic hands ) Photograph courtesy Amazon Columbia Snowtrot Shorty Boot Buy it now on Amazon I live in a cold-weather area and frequently travel to places with similar climates. Winter weather brings all sorts of anxiety-inducing hazardous conditions, such as sliding or falling. These Columbia boots keep my feet warm but also have a grippy tread on the bottom that helps keep my feet planted on the ground. As someone with wider feet prone to swelling after a long day of walking, I appreciate that this style comes in wide sizes. While I like this 'shorty' boot style, Columbia also sells higher-style boots with similar traction and warmth features. If you really want the ultimate traction, these Icebug BUGrip boots have strong studs on the outsoles, making me feel like I'm wearing cleats. ( These are the best walking shoes for plantar fasciitis ) Socks helper: RMS Sock Aid Photograph courtesy Amazon RMS Sock Aid Buy it now on Amazon The Sock Aid is proof that a product doesn't have to be sophisticated or expensive to have a big impact on your quality of life. My husband has back issues and hates having to ask for help putting his socks on each morning. Our kids got him the Sock Aid for Christmas, and he says it's been life-changing. It's simple to use, even on days when his back issues are flaring up. We keep several in our luggage and tote bags, ready for our next trip. Bed strap ladder: Vive Bed Ladder Photograph courtesy Amazon Vive Bed Ladder Buy it now on Amazon Anyone with mobility issues or back problems knows that a 'simple' task like sitting up in bed can often be challenging or even painful. I've noticed my back and joint/muscle pain can be especially bad first thing in the morning. This adjustable bed ladder is simple to use—it clips to the frame at the foot of the bed—and packs easily for overnight stays. Portable massager: Renpho Mini Thermal Massage Gun Renpho Mini Thermal Massage Gun Buy it now at Renpho My aches, pains, and muscle stiffness seem to flare up when I'm traveling, especially after long days on a train or crammed into an airplane seat. This massager quickly helps alleviate my aches and pains, and it's compact enough to fit in my carry-on bag. I especially like the heated function. Besides keeping me warm, it seems to be a big help when my muscles cramp up in cold weather. Folding shower chair: Vive Shower Chair Photograph courtesy Amazon Vive Shower Chair Buy it now on Amazon For those with mobility (or balance) concerns, falling in the shower is a scary—and unfortunately all too common—occurrence. We've used this shower chair to keep several family members safe in the shower. It's comfortable, yet sturdy and easy to clean. The rubber feet help keep it in place on soapy, slippery showers, and the whole thing folds down for easy storage and packing. ( These are the best shoes for back pain ) Bed rail: Stander EZ Adjust Bed Rail Photograph courtesy Amazon Stander EZ Adjust Bed Rail Buy it now on Amazon Falling out of bed is a common concern for those with mobility or balance issues, especially while staying in unfamiliar places. I like this bed rail because it does double-duty as both a safety rail and a grab bar for getting out of bed. The bottom slides under the mattress, which in my experience has stayed put due to the weight of the mattress. But it may be a good idea to use the strap for extra security. Installation is a two-person job, but I've found that hotels will send a staff member to assist you. This rail fits all bed sizes and most bed styles, but review the specifications carefully to be sure it will fit the bed you'll be using. Photograph courtesy Amazon Travelers Club Hardside Carry-On Buy it now on Amazon I find lifting and maneuvering luggage to be one of the most challenging travel tasks, especially while navigating through crowded train stations and busy airports. I like this Travelers Club carry-on because it has four sturdy wheels that help prevent it from tipping over, which often happens with two-wheeled models. The compact size and light weight make it easy for me to handle, but it's surprisingly roomy. If I need more space, I can easily expand it. This bag is pretty durable—I'm pretty hard on luggage and have knocked mine around quite a bit, yet it still looks good. Compression socks: Sockwell Compression Socks Photograph courtesy Sockwell Sockwell Compression Socks Buy it now at Sockwell As a stroke survivor, blood clots are a big concern for me. My doctors recommend compression socks, especially when I'm flying or otherwise sitting for long periods of time. I didn't think compression socks could be cute or stylish, so I was pleasantly surprised to discover Sockwell (the dragonfly style is one of my favorites). These compression socks achieve the Goldilocks balance—enough compression for the benefits I need, but not so much that they're uncomfortable. Pacas Compression Socks are another good option, especially for traveling in cold weather. ( The best compression socks for travelers ) Travel tumbler: Brumate Muv Tumbler Photograph courtesy Brumate Brumate Muv Tumbler Buy it now at Brumate I like taking my coffee or other drinks in this Brumate Muv Tumbler. It's big enough to hold plenty of my favorite hot and cold drinks. I appreciate the drinking/positioning options, so I'm not fumbling around trying to reach the opening while juggling bags. The huge handle is one of my favorite features. It's so easy to hold, even when I'm experiencing grip issues. ( These are some our favorite travel coffee mugs ) Disability lanyard: Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard and ID Card Buy it now on Amazon Recently, the sunflower has become a discreet signal of 'hidden' disabilities, such as autism and autoimmune diseases, which may not be easily noticeable on the outside. I've traveled with a few people who wear sunflower lanyards, like this one. The lanyards are a fast and easy way to let people know you may need extra support or patience when navigating airports, train stations, or other crowded areas. Travel belt: FlipBelt Adjustable Travel Belt Photograph courtesy Amazon FlipBelt Adjustable Travel Belt Buy it now on Amazon This travel belt has saved me from countless headaches. You can slide smaller items into either of the ends, or stash IDs or other important items in the zippered pocket. One of the best features of this belt is how easy it is to take off at security screenings. There are a couple of different FlipBelt designs, but I find this adjustable Velcro style the easiest to get on and off. How we chose the best mobility aids for travel I compiled this list based on items that have been helpful to me or my loved ones. When I chose these mobility aids for travel, I took the following into consideration: • Durability: I chose products that were built to last through the rigors of travel. • Portability: I prefer items that are lightweight and can fold down into a compact footprint. • Ease of use: Travel can be stressful, so it's important to me that mobility products are easy to use (and assemble, if applicable). • Price: I'm a bargain shopper and like to get the most bang for my buck, so I looked for items that offer good value for the price. • Recommendations and reviews: I place lots of weight on recommendations from friends and family, along with positive reviews from my healthcare providers or those who work in the healthcare field. Tips for buying accessible travel gear There are many kinds of physical mobility limitations, so your particular circumstances will dictate how you shop and which products will be most helpful to you. I kept the following considerations in mind when I was shopping for products that worked for me and my loved ones. You should consult your healthcare providers before purchasing anything. Consider how practical they are for using on the go Many items help make my life easier at home, but some aren't practical for the road. Ideally, I choose mobility items that are easy for me to transport and operate (and assemble) alone. Safety is the top priority Space constraints and other factors often limit how much you can take with you when traveling. If I need to prioritize, I always focus on safety-related essentials first. Review any relevant regulations If you're traveling by air from or within the United States, federal Department of Transportation rules dictate what qualifies as a mobility aid or device. Those rules determine how and where aids or devices can be stored on an airplane (and whether you'll have to pay an extra baggage fee). For bus or train travel, check the policies on the company website. Get insight from people you trust Friends and family members who have similar mobility issues can provide feedback based on their first-person experience. You can also ask your medical providers for recommendations. I've found that healthcare aides and others who provide direct support to people with mobility issues can offer great advice in this area. Frequently asked questions How do people with mobility issues travel? Everyone's situation is different, but I've found that many people with mobility issues (including myself) can still travel, but good preparation is the key. I make a detailed plan that includes where I'm going, how I'll get there, and any challenges I may encounter along the way. This helps me identify the assistance or support products that I'll need most. I also research available assistance, such as staff, who can help me transport items while navigating through the airport. How do you travel with walking problems? This will depend on your circumstances and limitations. I've found it helps to have a cane, walker, or other item to lean on for support, especially when standing in line for extended periods. I also give myself plenty of time to get where I need to go (including getting through security checkpoints). That way, I'm not rushing, which can sometimes risk injury. I also consider any available resources, such as wheelchair assistance, at the airport. How to get disability boarding? In the U.S., airline carriers must assist passengers with disabilities to get on and off the flight and get around the airport. They must allow these passengers to board first, if they request it. Travelers can typically indicate special needs when booking. However, you can also ask the gate agent at the airport—just be sure to arrive early enough to get to the gate and make this request before boarding begins. Bobbi Dempsey is a freelance writer whose work has appeared in Parade, The New York Times, Harper's, and others. Follow her on is a freelance writer whose work has appeared in, and others. Follow her on Instagram *Although we are sharing our personal opinions of these experiences or products with you, National Geographic is not endorsing these experiences or products on behalf of anyone. It has not performed product safety testing on any of these products, did not manufacture them, and is not selling, or distributing them and is not making any representations about the safety or caliber of these products or experiences for individual consumers. Prices and availability are subject to change from the date of publication.
Yahoo
12-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
82 homes coming to Monroe after council reverses vote, approves development
Feb. 12—This time there were no surprises. Two weeks after Monroe City Council rejected a major housing development — one city official said he was "caught off guard" by the vote — council approved development plans for the 82 single-family housing property called Townes at Monroe Crossings. Two weeks ago, two of the five council members present voted against authorizing City Manager Larry Lester entering into an amended Planned Unit Development agreement with NVR Inc. for approximately 21 acres located at Roden Park Drive and Crossings Boulevard. But on Tuesday night, with City Council member Michael Graves, who voted against the plans earlier, excused from the meeting, the legislation passed 5-1. Council member Tom Hagedorn, who voted "no" two weeks ago, again rejected the ordinance. Hagedorn has said he didn't feel the development was "a good fit for the area" and said residents have expressed concerns about excessive traffic in that area. Several people representing NVR left council chambers after the ordinance passed. Two weeks ago, Monroe's Director of Development Tom Smith said he was "caught off guard" by the no votes. The plans were passed 4-1 late last year by the Planning Commission. Mayor Keith Funk has said he wants to see "a successful project there." Council OKs design services for $93K Council also approved a resolution authorizing Lester to enter into a professional services agreement between the city and Fishbeck for the Bicentennial Commons Park Loop Trail and the Great Miami River Trail extension. The agreement calls to pay Fishbeck $93,400 for design services related to the Bicentennial Commons Park multi-use loop trail project. Public Works Director Gary Morton said the proposed trail will follow the existing perimeter loop trail alignment and start to connect to the Great Miami River Trail system. The city is pursuing funding through ODOT's new Pedestrian & Bicycle Special Solicitation program, launched in early 2025, for two significant trail projects: Bicentennial Commons Park Loop Trail and Great Miami River Trail extension that includes approximately two miles of new trail construction, city leaders said. The proposed timeline indicates completion of design services within 10 months of notice to proceed, with 50% plans due June 1, 2025 and 100% plans due Nov. 1, 2025. Morton said once the trail is complete it will stretch from Sidney to Cincinnati. He believes Monroe will provide the "final piece" to that connection.
