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Gas prices in Bay State now at same level they were before war in Ukraine
Gas pump. (File photo)
Gas prices in Massachusetts have dropped to the level they were before Russia invaded Ukraine in late February, putting more dollars in consumers pockets as the holidays approach.
The price of regular, self-serve gas is averaging $3.54 a gallon, down 12 cents from last week, AAA Northeast said Monday. It marked the biggest weekly decline since a 12-cent fall for two straight weeks in mid-September.
Prices in the Bay State have decreased four straight weeks, falling a dime last week and 31 cents overall from $3.81.
Plunging gas prices are just about the only economic bright spot as costs in most other areas continue to climb as inflation remains stubborn.
The current Massachusetts price is 14 cents higher than a year ago ($3.40) and 28 cents higher than the national average, which fell 14 cents since last week to $3.26 — 6 cents less than a year ago.
There are 34 states with averages lower than last year, AAA said.
In Rhode Island, gas is averaging $3.45, a decrease of 15 cents.
“The seasonal pattern of less driving due to shorter days and crummy weather, combined with a lower oil cost, is driving gas prices lower,” said Mary Maguire, AAA Northeast’s vice president of public and government affairs. “If this trend continues, many states could see their average prices fall below $3 a gallon by early next year.”
GasBuddy.com analysts have been forecasting prices to drop below $3 by Christmas.
The cost of gas and oil has been sinking on fears of economic slowdowns around the globe due to the continued war in Ukraine, persistent inflation and the ongoing pandemic. | 2022-12-13T00:32:02Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Gas prices in Bay State now at same level they were before war in Ukraine | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/gas-prices-in-bay-state-now-at-same-level-they-were-before-war-in-ukraine/article_6fb7c9db-e575-5e2d-84ef-0334a5107440.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/gas-prices-in-bay-state-now-at-same-level-they-were-before-war-in-ukraine/article_6fb7c9db-e575-5e2d-84ef-0334a5107440.html |
Court ruling guarantees our right to possess firearms
Re: “Columnist is inconsistent in his arguments.” by Paul Miles-Matthias, Voice of the Public, Dec. 12:
Paul Miles-Mathias’ letter contains some interesting opinions.
One item that he states as fact is “The Constitution does not guarantee individuals a right to own guns. That was decided by SCOTUS in 2008, in Columbia v Heller.”
In the case of District of Columbia v. Heller, the justices ruled 5-4 that the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution does guarantee an individual the right to possess firearms independent of service in a state militia.
Hopefully, the remainder of Miles-Mathias letter is more accurate.
Ed Schagrin | 2022-12-13T06:03:22Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Court ruling guarantees our right to possess firearms | Letters To Editor | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/letters_to_editor/court-ruling-guarantees-our-right-to-possess-firearms/article_e2d1ce83-cbe3-5b7e-beec-e61b20d42cad.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/letters_to_editor/court-ruling-guarantees-our-right-to-possess-firearms/article_e2d1ce83-cbe3-5b7e-beec-e61b20d42cad.html |
Attleboro (23) Lucas Devonis moves the puck down the ice against Foxboro on Monday, December 12, 2022. Dave DeMelia/Photo
Foxboro High’s Evan Palozzi, left, battles Attleboro High’s Nicholas Fernandes during their game Monday in Foxboro.
Foxboro (4) Connor Hayes Battles Attleboro (4) Beckett Stone in the 3rd. period action on Monday, December 12, 2022. Dave DeMelia/photo
Foxboro Players celebrate a goal in the 3rd. period action against Attleboro on Monday, December 12, 2022. Dave DeMelia/Photo
FOXBORO — Protecting a 3-1 advantage midway through the third period against Attleboro High Monday at Foxboro Sports Center, the Foxboro High hockey team’s penalty killing units were repellent in front of junior goalie Trevor Marder, killing back-to-back penalties and thwarting the Bombardiers twice while allowing just one shot on Attleboro’s first power play, then creating four clearances of the puck and two steals on the second chance.
Foxboro High’s front line penalty killers of senior captain Henry Diamond, Connor Hayes and Ryan Wood kept AHS without a shot on its first power play at the six-minute mark of the first period with four steals to go with four clearances.
Warren is Attleboro’s third coach in four seasons, inheriting a winless team from last season, one with nine freshmen and sophomores and five eighth graders on the roster. The bright Bombardier picture was that AHS won both of its preseason scrimmages, scoring more goals in six periods than it did all of last season (eight) in losing all 15 games.
Worst of all for AHS, a minute after sophomore defenseman Brody Shaw knotted the score at 11:26 of the second period with a nifty rush down the left wing and backhand flip of the puck, the Bombardiers surrendered two goals to Foxboro within a two-minute span, the game-winner by Coviello at 12:15.
McAuliffe put Foxboro’s fourth goal on the scoreboard at 12:35 of the third period, with a nifty rush down the left wing and a backhand shot over AHS junior netminder Julien Horton. Foxboro held a 34-advantage in shots, including a 13-4 margin in the first period.
AHS had a second power play in the final minute of the first period and first minute of the second period, but Marder denied Nathan Conroy on a low drive and then made a terrific save on a breakaway bid by the Bombardier eighth grader Beckett Stone. The Bombardiers afforded Foxboro just two power plays, one that lasted for 1:30 at the outset of the third period and another with two minutes left.
AHS makes its home season debut Wednesday at the New England Sports Village with a 5:30 faceoff against Stoughton, while Foxboro (1-1) is off until a 6:10 puck drop on Dec. 19 against the Black Knights. | 2022-12-13T06:03:59Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | H.S. HOCKEY: Foxboro whistles past Attleboro for first win | Local Sports | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-hockey-foxboro-whistles-past-attleboro-for-first-win/article_f7faf4e3-a45f-5498-aebe-f753ed1bb908.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-hockey-foxboro-whistles-past-attleboro-for-first-win/article_f7faf4e3-a45f-5498-aebe-f753ed1bb908.html |
H.S. SWIMMING: North Attleboro takes two over Oliver Ames in Kelley-Rex Division debut
RANDOLPH — The North Attleboro High swim team made its Hockomock League Kelley-Rex Division debut with a season-opening pair of wins over Oliver Ames High in its boys and girls meets at Randolph High on Monday night.
The Rocketeer boys won, 75-56, while the North girls won, 85-80.
“It’s definitely a big boost to the start of the season,” North Attleboro boys swim coach Jeremy Thornton said. “We moved to the Kelley-Rex Division in the Hockomock League, so it was a nice meet against a school that was comparable to our team.”
Finishing first for the Rocketeers in the boys meet was Howell Braillard in the 200 freestyle at 2:42.56. Josh Kafel also took first in two individual events, winning the 200 freestyle (27.66) and the 100 butterfly (1:05.06).
“Josh is a returning veteran, probably our biggest point scorer today. He had a good start to the season,” Thornton said. “Braillard had a great start to the season.”
Darren Liang took first in the 500 freestyle (8:24.06) and Saksham Verma took first in the 100 backstroke in 1:37.65. The Rocketeer boys won the 200 medley in 2:38.22 along with the 400 freestyle relay at 5:36.12.
On the girls side, the Rocketeers took wins in the 200 medley (2:46.38) and 100 breaststroke (1:29.47) with Vivian Racine winning both. Gianna Leco took the top time in the 100 butterfly at a time of 1:21.09 and won the 500 freestyle (7:06.11).
North Attleboro girls coach Danielle McCullough applauded the work of Racine and Leco, along with Eman Farid for stepping up in the 500 free and 100 backstroke.
“Gianna and Vivian stepped up in taking some of those harder races today,” McCullough said. “Eman Farid competed in two really difficult races that are outside of her comfort zone and her stepping up and taking on some harder races was really admirable of her.”
McCullough thinks her rookie swimmers this season are eager to keep improving over the next few weeks.
“I definitely think there’s a lot of room for improvement,” McCullough said. “I think we have a lot of new swimmers that are eager and excited to continue improving their times. I think we have a lot of strong swimmers. We have a lot of kids with a variety of high talent and ability and I’m excited to put them into different races to test them out.”
Danielle Mccullough
Vivian Racine
Gianna Leco | 2022-12-13T06:04:05Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | H.S. SWIMMING: North Attleboro takes two over Oliver Ames in Kelley-Rex Division debut | Local Sports | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-swimming-north-attleboro-takes-two-over-oliver-ames-in-kelley-rex-division-debut/article_1029ab6c-bf2e-54b7-9072-d74f7d60c4bc.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-swimming-north-attleboro-takes-two-over-oliver-ames-in-kelley-rex-division-debut/article_1029ab6c-bf2e-54b7-9072-d74f7d60c4bc.html |
Along the Way: Mansfield's Bentley turns 5
Bentley is now 5 years old.
WORKING DOGS OF MPD
The classic gingerbread house, such as this one, is constructed out of flat sheets of baked gingerbread and decorated with candy.
file image/
Happy birthday, Bentley!
Bentley, the popular community service dog in Mansfield, turned 5 on Dec. 4. Mansfield police celebrated the birthday on their Facebook page and the Working Dogs of MPD Facebook page. Bentley and his handler, Officer Kenneth Wright, work in the schools and at community events. There is even an award given to elementary school students in Bentley’s name.”Happy 5th birthday Bentley. You bring happiness to everyone you meet,” read the salutation on the Working Dogs of MPD Facebook page.
Zoom in on some storytelling
The Literacy Center, an Attleboro-based nonprofit, will host an hour of community storytelling from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday. Members of the community will share their stories about overcoming challenges in this fun event, which will take place virtually via Zoom. RSVP to receive the Zoom link at theliteracycenter.com/storytellerspage. Deadline to RSVP is 24 hours prior to the event start.
Registration is now open for the third annual Gingerbread House Challenge, organized by the Mansfield Public Library. The month-long event encourages Mansfield residents to design their own gingerbread houses using Graham crackers and candy. While the library is no longer providing kits for the challenge, residents can still take part using their own supplies. To enter, email a photo of your creation along with your name and age group to either Kacee Rimer at krimer@sailsinc.org, if you are in the Children’s category, ages 8-12; or Whitney K. Brown at wkbrown@sailsinc.org if you are in either the Teens category, ages 13-17, or the Adult’s category, ages 18 and over. Participants will be entered into a raffle to win a prize. There will be prizes for each age group and winners will be announced on Thursday, Dec. 29. All entries must be submitted by Wednesday, Dec. 21 to be considered for a prize. There is no price for submission. | 2022-12-13T16:56:02Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Along the Way: Mansfield's Bentley turns 5 | Communities | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/communities/along-the-way-mansfields-bentley-turns-5/article_e95abb51-6499-5610-ac0e-0263bccd3feb.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/communities/along-the-way-mansfields-bentley-turns-5/article_e95abb51-6499-5610-ac0e-0263bccd3feb.html |
Commentary: Another civil war? It's not imminent, but ...
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For instance, a solid minority of Americans — in the 20% range — say violence can be justified to “advance an important political objective.”
Furthermore, according to the Pew Research Center, Americans see their political opponents as more “close-minded, dishonest, immoral and unintelligent” than other Americans. Nearly 9 out of 10 voters expressed concern to pollsters last month about the increased risk of politically motivated violence.
Despite all that, I think this country has a ways to go before we take to our bunkers.
Call me a starry-eyed optimist (or a self-delusional fool), but I believe that most Americans still share a fundamental respect for rules, laws and institutions, a respect built over 200-plus years of history.
The vast majority of Americans are not on the violent fringes but buy into the basic expectations and benefits of democratic society.
I’ve seen signs of upheaval in this country in the last seven years that I couldn’t have imagined just a few years earlier.
Two presidential impeachments within 13 months — the same number there were in the previous 230 years. Two-thirds of Republicans convinced President Biden was not fairly elected. Twitter mentions of “civil war” up by nearly 3,000% after the FBI search of Mar-a-Lago in August. Hate crimes increasing around the country.
Even when one party wins a majority it accomplishes little. The filibuster is an immense obstacle to legislative action in the Senate, allowing little to get done except through gimmickry and procedural machinations.
The hurdles to amending the Constitution are virtually insurmountable; some experts believe it will never happen again.
For voters, this creates intense frustration that threatens to boil over. If working within the system doesn’t improve things, voters will eventually reject the system.
If elections yield no meaningful benefits, Americans will lose faith in voting. If they feel misled, mistreated and undervalued by Washington, they will become angry and disenchanted, lose faith in institutions, and turn elsewhere for solutions, including to demagogues.
So, OK, fine; in a healthy political system, Congress would now pass a law codifying abortion rights nationally, in line with the desire of most Americans. But the legislative branch is broken and can’t respond.
Despite popular support, the proposed bill lacks the votes to overcome the 60-vote filibuster requirement in the Senate.
The left and right both feel the frustration.
According to Pew, only 8% of Americans see government as very or extremely responsive to the needs of ordinary citizens. Dissatisfaction with Washington is one of the few things on which Republicans and Democrats agree.
The writer is an associate editor and Op-Ed columnist for the Los Angeles Times. | 2022-12-14T06:13:21Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Commentary: Another civil war? It's not imminent, but ... | Columns | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/columns/commentary-another-civil-war-its-not-imminent-but/article_d06a8471-1b4d-5c90-ae2e-3df47e164df5.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/columns/commentary-another-civil-war-its-not-imminent-but/article_d06a8471-1b4d-5c90-ae2e-3df47e164df5.html |
Councilor is correct: Marijuana is a gateway drug
City Councilor Peter Blais is right. Marijuana is a gateway drug. In all my 33 years in law enforcement, I have never found one person who used cocaine or other hard drugs before using pot.
Yes, pot is a gateway drug, and when they want a greater high, they move on to something stronger. I guess those letters against Blais calling it a gateway drug, might have been from pot shop owners or employees.
In my opinion, we don’t need more pot facilities in Attleboro. We certainly don’t need them anywhere other than in the industrial areas.
Donald Hebert | 2022-12-14T06:13:40Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Councilor is correct: Marijuana is a gateway drug | Letters To Editor | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/letters_to_editor/councilor-is-correct-marijuana-is-a-gateway-drug/article_0c2f9625-8534-5735-acbb-5bea5309dbb4.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/letters_to_editor/councilor-is-correct-marijuana-is-a-gateway-drug/article_0c2f9625-8534-5735-acbb-5bea5309dbb4.html |
H.S. BOYS BASKETBALL: North Attleboro falls to Canton in season opener
CANTON — The North Attleboro boys basketball team dropped its season opener on Tuesday night, losing on the road to Canton High, 60-53.
The Rocketeers found themselves trailing 29-24 at halftime, and had the game at 40-35 entering the fourth quarter.
Leading on the floor for North was Ayden Delaney with 11 points. Derek Maceda and Givani Carney each had nine points.
North Attleboro (0-1) comes back on Friday, visiting Taunton.
FOXBORO — Foxboro rolled past Milford, winning its season opener.
BELLINGHAM — Norton won the road, improving to 2-0 on the season.
The Lancers were led by a double-double effort from Jake Ogilvie, scoring 14 points with 10 rebounds. Brandon Scovil added nine points with great contributions on defense, per head coach Marc Liberatore.
Liberatore also pointed to his bench, with Shawn Clary (nine points) and Mike O’Keefe (seven points) all instrumental in the win.
Norton hits the road on Friday to play Medway.
Bishop Stang 62, Seekonk 50
DARTMOUTH — Despite playing an up-tempo game, Seekonk, was unable to get past Bishop Stang.
Caiden Sears had 11 points to lead Seekonk. Noah Beausoleil added nine point. Marcus Nadeau and Kevin Crowe scored seven and eight points, respectively.
The Warriors (0-2) play again on Friday against Wareham, opening South Coast Conference play.
Dighton-Rehoboth 67, Bishop Connolly 64
DIGHTON — Dighton-Rehoboth rallied back for the season-opening win at home over Bishop Connolly.
The Falcons trailed by 10 point at the end of the first quarter before cutting the difference down to nine by halftime. D-R rallied back to tie the game up at the end of the third quarter and completed the comeback with a three-point win.
Jordan Dietz had 23 points to lead the team. Kyle Mello had 19 points, all in the second half, and James Lingard scored 13 points. As a team D-R hit 14 of 16 free throw attempts.
D-R plays on Friday at Fairhaven.
Marc Liberatore | 2022-12-14T06:13:58Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | H.S. BOYS BASKETBALL: North Attleboro falls to Canton in season opener | Local Sports | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-boys-basketball-north-attleboro-falls-to-canton-in-season-opener/article_47dd8248-9c1e-513a-a33a-39d8e038bd1e.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-boys-basketball-north-attleboro-falls-to-canton-in-season-opener/article_47dd8248-9c1e-513a-a33a-39d8e038bd1e.html |
H.S. GIRLS BASKETBALL: Bombardiers christen new gym with a win over Hornets
Mansfield High’s Brooke Butler clutches the ball in front of Attleboro High’s Kayla Goldrick Tuesday in Attleboro.
Mansfield High's Kara Santos lays up for two against Attleboro High Tuesday night.
Attleboro High’s Vanessa Ellis dribbles the ball upcourt against Mansfield High Tuesday night.
Attleboro High's Vanessa Ellis (32) and Mansfield’s Bridget Hanley go for a rebound.
Mansfield High's Olivia Salisbury is fouled by the Attleboro defense.
ATTLEBORO — The Attleboro High girls basketball team took its first-ever win in its new home gym, turning back Mansfield High 63-53 Tuesday night.
“It was a good team win,” said Attleboro head coach Bri Bracken, whose team evened its record at 1-1. “I threw a couple of freshmen in there and the kids had to step up, and they did. They did their job, as Bill Belichick says. It was a good team win.”
The Bombardiers got out to an 11-point lead in the first half, first running off a 9-0 run before extending it to 11 at 17-6. A 9-0 Mansfield run to close out the first quarter and another Hornets’ 9-0 run in the second quarter saw the game tied up at 22-22. Attleboro battled back, showing grit and fight to keep the game in its favor at 31-29 entering the half.
The halftime score had Attleboro feeling good, especially after a big loss to Framingham last week to open the season. Bracken said the confidence from the first half carried the rest of the way and had a big part in the winning formula for the Bombardiers.
“It felt pretty good,” Bracken said. “Coming off a loss against Framingham, I was a little worried about their confidence, but they came out strong and that was huge confidence builder and I think that’s why we walked away with a W.”
Despite a Mansfield push to open the second half, Attleboro never backed down. Mansfield (0-1) led by five points off a combination of baskets and free throws by Abby Wager but the Bombardiers rallied back with an 11-1 stretch to close out the third quarter, holding a 45-40 lead into the final frame.
The lead was never matched in the fourth. Attleboro hit six of its last seven free throws and a Merry Bosh three to make it a five-point game helped extend the margin while Mansfield’s desperation heaves at the end weren’t enough.
“(Attleboro) had a lot of different people come in and make an impact,” Mansfield coach Heather McPherson said. “We’d make these big runs, but on our end, it was the mental mistakes. A huge advantage was they started on Friday and got those (first game) jitters out of the way. We had all of those jitters from a lot of different people.”
Mansfield was led in scoring by Abby Wager’s 22 points. Olivia Salisbury contributed 18 points, Kara Santos scored 11 and Ella Palanza had two points to round out scoring.
“Super proud of them. I think they made good adjustments,” McPherson said. “We suffered some preseason injuries and everyone’s healthy now, but it was kind of getting into game shape. I feel we’d get in a good run and then we’d need to shuffle somebody else in and then we’d have to readjust. ... (We made) just some costly mistakes.”
Bracken said a changed defensive scheme, along with Bosh’s 3-pointer, and Kayla Goldrick’s hustle plays in the second half, helped lock up the win. Goldrick led the Bombardiers with 17 points, followed by 15 each from Lily Routhier and Vanessa Ellis.
“We switched up the defense a little bit,” Bracken said. “They were shooting from the outside, not hitting, and just grabbing the rebound. Kayla came up huge in a stretch, and the heart and hustle she has, that’s why she’s a captain. She got rebounds. That Mary Bosh three, that helped us with the momentum.”
The win marked the first for the AHS girls program in its new gymnasium. Following its completion over the summer the school showcased the state-of-the-art school through the volleyball season, and saw the team run off a memorable season of success.
Bracken told her girls to make their mark on the gym on Tuesday night and they did, with Avery James netting the first points in the first official basketball game at the new school.
“I told the girls, even going back to the old gym when we played North, we’re the first varsity basketball team to use this gym, it’s huge,” Bracken. “They definitely did today.”
Bri Bracken
Kayla Goldrick | 2022-12-14T06:14:05Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | H.S. GIRLS BASKETBALL: Bombardiers christen new gym with a win over Hornets | Local Sports | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-girls-basketball-bombardiers-christen-new-gym-with-a-win-over-hornets/article_e1591097-ee45-5058-9c88-068ffefb4c18.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-girls-basketball-bombardiers-christen-new-gym-with-a-win-over-hornets/article_e1591097-ee45-5058-9c88-068ffefb4c18.html |
H.S. GIRLS BASKETBALL: North Attleboro leads all the way to knock off Canton
NORTH ATTLEBORO — The North Attleboro High girls basketball team opened the season with a 47-39 win over Canton High on Tuesday in a game where the hosts never trailed.
The Rocketeers led 17-10 after the first quater and held a 27-20 halftime lead. North led the rest of the way, never relinquishing the lead in the game, with four points being the closest that the Bulldogs could come.
“We came out of the gate firing and getting out in transition,” North head coach Nikki Correia said. “Canton struggled with our 1-2-2 press to start.”
Ava McKeon had 18 points, 10 coming in the first quarter, for North Attleboro while Sam Sweeney scored 15 points
“I am so proud of the girls,” Correia said. “They played as a team, executed the offense and played hard defense for four quarters”
North plays Taunton at home on Friday.
King Philip 64, Stoughton 41
WRENTHAM — The Warriors rolled to the Hockomock League in their opener, getting 16 points from Emily Sawyer.
The Warriors led 27-18 at half and steadily increased their lead the rest of the way. Maddie Paschke scored 13 points for King Philip, which plays at Franklin on Friday.
NORTON — The Lancers won a lopsided affair, sparked by Taryn Fierri’s 12 points. Avery Tinkham added 10 points.
Norton held a 30-17 halftime lead before slamming the door on Bellingham and running away with the win.
Norton (2-0) hosts Medway on Friday.
Bishop Feehan 70, Bishop Fenwick 49
PEABODY — The Shamrocks cruised past the Crusaders in their Catholic Central League season opener.
The visitors led at the end of each quarter, including 34-23 entering halftime. A 21-point fourth quarter led to Feehan putting away Fenwick for the win.
Four Shamrocks finished in double-digit scoring, with Mary Daley leading the way with 13 points. Sammy Reale and Julia Webster each had 12 points and six rebounds. Sam Carlson added 10 points.
Bishop Feehan (1-0) is off until Dec. 22, when it will host Mansfield.
Middleboro 49, Seekonk 40
SEEKONK — Seekonk got 21 points from Ally Dantas and eight points from Sienna Miranda, but it wasn’t enough. The Warriors (0-2) play Friday at Wareham. | 2022-12-14T06:14:11Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | H.S. GIRLS BASKETBALL: North Attleboro leads all the way to knock off Canton | Local Sports | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-girls-basketball-north-attleboro-leads-all-the-way-to-knock-off-canton/article_f2ccbecf-ad45-5e31-8e99-c59ac9318d76.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-girls-basketball-north-attleboro-leads-all-the-way-to-knock-off-canton/article_f2ccbecf-ad45-5e31-8e99-c59ac9318d76.html |
H.S. SWIMMING: Seekonk boys, girls split their meet
SEEKONK — The Seekonk High swim team split its meet against Old Rochester Regional High on Tuesday as the girls won 99-71 and the boys lost 91-63.
The highlight of the meet was Addison Abreu’s 100 fly time, which clocked in at 58.8 to beat a 19-year old school record for Seekonk.
The Seekonk girls took first in nine events, winning in 200 free (Hannah Baldassi), 200 individual medley (Emily Tonino), 50 free (Lydia Craft), 100 free (Tonino), 500 free (Abreu), 100 backstroke (Craft), 200 free medley and the 400 free medley.
The Seekonk boys took first in seven events, winning the 200 medley relay, 200 individual medley (Chris Strycharz), 100 butterfly (Nicholas Cavic), 100 free (Michael Cabral), 100 backstroke (Cavic), 100 breastroke (Strycharz) and 200 free relay.
Feehan girls split tri-meet
NORTON — The Bishop Feehan High girls’ swim team split its season-opening tri-meet at Wheaton College on Monday, defeating Mansfield High 71-30, but falling to Norton High, 53-4.
Norton's Sadie him set the school 6-dive diving record in her first high school competition, scoring 205.3 to beat everyone. In the 200 medley relay Sarah Pescod, Mattia McIntyre, Brooke Carline and Ally Jacques clocked a time of 1:57.60 for first to beat the school record as well, beating the prior time of 1:58.48 from 2017's TVL champion tadem.
Bishop Feehan's Jordan Silvia qualified for the MIAA state meet with wins in the 200 IM and 100 breastroke. Julia Pelchat also qualified for state in the 100 freestyle, taking first with teammate Maddy Fitzgerald coming in as the runner-up. Maddy Fitzgerald was the third individual qualifier for state on the Shamrocks, winning the 50 freestyle with Avary Serpa coming in as the runner-up.
Serpa, Fitzgerald, Silvia and Pelchat qualified together in the 200 free relay, and the 400 free relay of Serpa, Kari Cabral, Hazel Thomas and Pelchat earned a MIAA sectional spot with their finish.
The Shamrock boys defeated Mansfield, 92-70, as Brian Parkinson won two events in his freshman debut, taking the 200 IM and the 100 backstroke to qualify for sectionals. In total, the Shamrock boys won 11 of 12 events, including two wins each by Alex Daniels (50 free, 500 free) and freshman Antonio Morabito (200 free, 100 free).
The Mansfield girls took a first-place time of 2:20.62 in the 200 IM from Addison MacDonald in their 75-27 loss to Norton. She went on to win the 200 IM and 500 freestyle in the meet against Feehan, and took second in the 500 free (5:30.12) against Norton.
Katherine Elliott placed second in the 100 breaststroke against Norton. Caitlyn Zajac placed second overall in diving against Norton and Feehan, and earned a sectionals and state qualifying score of 199.45.
On the boys side for Mansfield, Xavier Gwynne earned first against Feehan with a time of 1:02.23 in the 200 fly, and took second in the 200 IM with a time of 2:27.76. Both were personal bests.
Jack Friedman placed second in the 100 butterfly (1:09.42) and took second in the 500 freestyle. Also taking second in the 100 breaststroke was Neil Dalpe.
Julia Pelchat
Maddy Fitzgerald
Avary Serpa | 2022-12-14T06:14:17Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | H.S. SWIMMING: Seekonk boys, girls split their meet | Local Sports | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-swimming-seekonk-boys-girls-split-their-meet/article_ccb82015-84e0-5fdb-bd7f-96c1202fc6a3.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-swimming-seekonk-boys-girls-split-their-meet/article_ccb82015-84e0-5fdb-bd7f-96c1202fc6a3.html |
Foxboro High’s Evan Palozzi, left, skates past Attleboro High’s Nicholas Fernandes during their game Monday in Foxboro.
Dave DeMelia / For the Foxboro Reporter
Foxboro High’s Connor Hayes (left) battles Attleboro High’s Beckett Stone for control of the puck during the third period of Monday’s contest in Foxboro.
Foxboro High players celebrate a goal in the third period against Attleboro High on Monday in Foxboro.
For the Foxboro Reporter
FOXBORO — Protecting a 3-1 advantage midway through the third period against Attleboro High Monday at Foxboro Sports Center, the Foxboro High hockey team’s penalty-killing units were repellent in front of junior goalie Trevor Marder, killing back-to-back penalties and thwarting the Bombardiers twice while allowing just one shot on Attleboro’s first power play, then creating four clearances of the puck and two steals on the second chance.
Foxboro High’s front-line penalty-killers of senior captain Henry Diamond, Connor Hayes and Ryan Wood kept AHS without a shot on its first power play at the six-minute mark of the first period, with four steals to go with four clearances.
Warren is Attleboro’s third coach in four seasons, inheriting a winless team from last season, one with nine freshmen and sophomores and five eighth-graders on the roster. The bright Bombardier picture was that AHS won both of its preseason scrimmages, scoring more goals in six periods than it did all of last season (eight) in losing all 15 games.
Worst of all for AHS, a minute after sophomore defenseman Brody Shaw knotted the score at 11:26 of the second period with a nifty rush down the left wing and backhand flip of the puck, the Bombardiers surrendered two goals to Foxboro within a two-minute span, including the game-winner by Coviello at 12:15.
McAuliffe put Foxboro’s fourth goal on the scoreboard at 12:35 of the third period, with a nifty rush down the left wing and a backhand shot over AHS junior netminder Julien Horton. Foxboro held a plus-34 advantage in shots, including a 13-4 margin in the first period.
AHS had a second power play in the final minute of the first period and first minute of the second period, but Marder denied Nathan Conroy on a low drive and then made a terrific save on a breakaway bid by the Bombardier eighth-grader, Beckett Stone. The Bombardiers afforded Foxboro just two power plays, one that lasted for 1:30 at the outset of the third period and another with two minutes left.
AHS made its home season debut Wednesday at the New England Sports Village with a 5:30 faceoff against Stoughton, while Foxboro (1-1) is off until a 6:10 puck drop on Dec. 19 against the Black Knights. | 2022-12-15T00:04:12Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | H.S. HOCKEY: Foxboro whistles past Attleboro for first win | Sports | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/foxboro_reporter/sports/h-s-hockey-foxboro-whistles-past-attleboro-for-first-win/article_6a814db9-8cef-5ab9-ab93-f35ddcf1223c.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/foxboro_reporter/sports/h-s-hockey-foxboro-whistles-past-attleboro-for-first-win/article_6a814db9-8cef-5ab9-ab93-f35ddcf1223c.html |
Foxboro High’s Aine Fitzpatrick placed second in the girls’ one-mile run in the Hockomock League indoor meet in January at Wheaton College.
BOSTON — The area’s high school Hockomock League indoor track and field teams opened their seasons last Thursday night in a series of dual meets at the Boston Landing Track and Field Complex.
The Foxboro girls posted a 62-35 win while the Warrior boys also came home victorious, winning 54-40 over Sharon High.
Foxboro was led by a clean sweep in the high jump, with Chloe Davies (4-10), Ella Campebell (4-10) and Kiley Osbourne (4-06). The Warriors’ Delia Fitzgerald won the long jump (14-061/2) and Erin Haney took the shot put (22-111/4) with Ann Marie Janas second (20-07).
Foxboro’s girls won six events. Aine Fitzpatrick won the two-mile (13:36.40), Casey Dahl the 1,000 (3:35.75), Ella Campbell the 300 meters (46.77), Brooke Davies the mile (6:20.62), while the Warriors’ 1,600 meter relay squad (4:48.24) and 800-meter relay squad (2:02.08) also won.
The Foxboro boys swept the shot put, posting the dual-best distance of 44-07 by Joe Flanagan with Harrison Keen second (35-09) and Nicholas Higgins third (27-021/2). Stephen Haney was second in the long jump at 18 feet.
Stephen Haney
Hockomock League | 2022-12-15T00:04:19Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | H.S. INDOOR TRACK: Hockomock League squads hit the track running in Boston | Sports | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/foxboro_reporter/sports/h-s-indoor-track-hockomock-league-squads-hit-the-track-running-in-boston/article_894dd15a-ff83-53c4-9009-7756a21d0008.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/foxboro_reporter/sports/h-s-indoor-track-hockomock-league-squads-hit-the-track-running-in-boston/article_894dd15a-ff83-53c4-9009-7756a21d0008.html |
North Attleboro council gets first look at updated town seal
A makeover is in the works for North Attleboro’s town seal.
NORTH ATTLEBORO — “Helen” may be getting a makeover.
Town council members got their first look Monday night at an updated — and possibly more historically accurate — version of the town seal, the official municipal logo that appears on all town documents.
“We are not trying to reinvent the wheel,” said Councilor Andrea Slobogan, who was part of the group that worked on the revised design.
But she added the image needed updating.
“We want to put our best foot forward” in representing the town’s brand, Slobogan said.
The council took no vote on the design.
As shown at the meeting, the proposed revisions keep all the elements of the current seal. Only a black-and-white version was shown, but it featured a clearer depiction of the various elements of the image, including the female figure at the center of the seal.
“Miss North Attleboro,” as Slobogan called her, has no official name, although former councilor JoAnn Cathcart — who held various positions in town hall — told the council earlier this year that town workers “just called her Helen.”
Other symbolic elements on the seal remain — a factory building, gear wheel and anvil represent industry while a plow and cornucopia stand for agriculture.
Slobogan pointed out that, with the redesign, it’s now clearer that there are fruits and vegetables — “and not tennis balls” — pouring out of the horn of plenty at the female figure’s feet.
Town Manager Michael Borg suggested at a council meeting in April that an updating of the seal, which appears on town letterheads, legal documents as well as on the sides of municipal vehicles, might be in order.
Slobogan said she and other councilors worked with a designer and the updated proposal is closer to the original seal found in the town’s archives.
The one most commonly used today, she said, is the result of constant attempts at copying it. She compared it to the childhood game of “telephone,” where each new version of a story is slightly changed.
Council President Justin Pare said the new version “was not some radical departure.”
He said he hoped the public would weigh in on the new version and the council could vote on a change “at some point in the future.”
Andrea Slobogan
Joann Cathcart
Gear Wheel | 2022-12-15T04:55:42Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | North Attleboro council gets first look at updated town seal | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/north-attleboro-council-gets-first-look-at-updated-town-seal/article_3076c2dc-8859-5b48-9d85-09a0a598cd85.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/north-attleboro-council-gets-first-look-at-updated-town-seal/article_3076c2dc-8859-5b48-9d85-09a0a598cd85.html |
H.S. BOYS HOCKEY: Lachance, Stone score in Attleboro loss
ATTLEBORO — The Attleboro High boys hockey team lost to Stoughton-Brockton on Wednesday, falling 7-2 at New England Sports Village.
The Bombardiers struggled out of the gate, getting out-shot 17-2 in the first period to trail 2-0 and then fell behind 6-1 after two periods.
Mike Lachance scored the first goal (assisted by Colin Flynn) for the Bombardiers in the second period to make the score 5-1. Eighth grader Beckett Stone collected his first varsity goal in the third period, assisted by Owen Parker.
A few eighth graders fill out the Bombarders’ roster, adding another layer to an already young and inexperienced team at the varsity level. Stone’s goal was a good sight from the young up-and-coming core, which Attleboro head coach Gary Warren has been giving ample ice time.
“The thing we said before was that these eighth graders are going to be relied upon to contribute,” Warren said. “They are contributed, we have five of them, but one is sick. ... All four of these eighth graders playing right now are seeing a lot of ice time.”
Warren knows the team is working toward something better, and took to highlighting the positives from Wednesday’s loss.
Last season, the Bombardiers went winless and did not score more than one goal in any game. This preseason, the Bombardiers scored eight goals, more than what they had in 18 games a year ago, and won both games.
“We just need to grow every game and get better every game,” Warren said. “The result isn’t what we wanted, but they’re making progress. They are making progress. ... It’s building morale. They’re progressing.”
Attleboro next plays Saturday at Aleixo Arena against Taunton.
Tri-County 8, Blue Hills 5
CANTON — The Cougars earned their first win of the season at Canton Ice House, thrashing the Warriors behind a four-goal game from Lucas Sobczak.
Connor Joy, Marucs Altieri, Mike Goddard and CJ Cobb had goals in the win. Sobczak added an assist, while Goddard added a team-high three assists.
In goal for the Cougars was Caleb Drinan, stopping 28 of 33 shots on net.
T-C next plays Saturday against Upper Cape.
Beckett Stone
Mike Lachance
Mike Goddard | 2022-12-15T04:55:54Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | H.S. BOYS HOCKEY: Lachance, Stone score in Attleboro loss | Local Sports | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-boys-hockey-lachance-stone-score-in-attleboro-loss/article_1a59707d-bc2b-5973-acda-ffd65af2d2c2.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-boys-hockey-lachance-stone-score-in-attleboro-loss/article_1a59707d-bc2b-5973-acda-ffd65af2d2c2.html |
Along the Way: Cuddy Court to host holiday bazaar
Cuddy Court, featuring creations by local artist Jess Tracey, will be the site of a holiday crafts bazaar on Friday.
Cuddy Court to host holiday bazaar Friday
The second of two holiday bazaars in downtown Attleboro’s Cuddy Court this month is scheduled for 5 to 8 p.m. Friday. The event, sponsored by the city of Attleboro, will feature a number of local vendors offering a variety of gifts for sale. Cuddy Court is located behind the city parking garage on Sanford Street between Bank and North Main streets. The former dark back alley was renovated and dedicated last September in the memory of longtime community supporter Thomas H. Cuddy Jr.. It now features benches, lighting, plants, restored pavement and paintings of fictional children’s book characters.
Holiday Toy Drive set in Wrentham this Saturday
The Wrentham Police Association will hold its inaugural Holiday Toy Drive event from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday at the Wrentham Public Safety Building, 89 South St. The association will be collecting donations of new, unwrapped toys for children of any age as well as donations of gift cards to local businesses and restaurants. They will then be distributed to the community by Wrentham teachers and community resource employees. Attendees can also check out a number of police vehicles on display at the event, which the police plan to make an annual happening. Light refreshments will also be provided, including hot chocolate, coffee and treats. Those unable to attend can still donate at a drop box in the lobby at the building. The box will be open through Sunday, Dec. 18.
Free winter wear now available at Norton library
Free scarves and hats are now available for pickup at the Norton Public Library, 68 East Main St. The winter wear was hand-knit by members of the library’s Knot Just Knitters group, which meets at the library at 1 p.m. Thursdays. All are welcome.
Mansfield library staff say thanks for donations
Staff at the Mansfield Public Library recently took to Facebook to express their gratitude for a generous donation from Ann Robertson and Melissa Jewett of Emerson Automation Solutions. Robertson and Jewett, along with other staff at the company, gave a number of games, toys, books and art supplies. Their donations will be used by the library’s children, tween and teen patrons, according to the post.
Melissa Jewett
Ann Robertson | 2022-12-15T07:06:15Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Along the Way: Cuddy Court to host holiday bazaar | Communities | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/communities/along-the-way-cuddy-court-to-host-holiday-bazaar/article_79867393-f5b1-5e6c-9f60-301fcc5afa4c.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/communities/along-the-way-cuddy-court-to-host-holiday-bazaar/article_79867393-f5b1-5e6c-9f60-301fcc5afa4c.html |
Sun Chronicle editorial dramatized an issue that will soon be moot
Seeds sprout much faster if you spread manure on them. That is, if they’re viable seeds to begin with.
I am not surprised that different persons/officials/candidates in Attleboro favor different election dates for the upcoming special election.
Regardless of anyone’s opinion, the city council will pick the date, likely in a vote next week, and the matter will be moot. Gone.
Until then, all parties should feel free to state their preferences, though ethics deem it advisable for the candidates to abstain from any involvement. While the mayor is free to state his opinions, to do so, and moreover to cast aspersions, leaves a bad taste. He will not be here for this election. He caused it. He should let go of city politics, just as he has let go of the mayor’s office.
And the paper’s decision to rile residents up with the soon-to-end election date debate by dramatizing the issue, and worse to criticize individual council members for stating their honest opinions, is shameful.
The public looks to editorials to define and promote a clear take-the-high-road direction on an issue, backed up, usually, by facts, history, or other data. The text of the paper’s Dec. 9 editorial asks six lengthy rhetorical questions that clearly reflect today’s unfortunate, paranoia-driven conspiracy suspicions. Really, Sun Chronicle?
If anyone owes anybody and explanation, I would say it’s you.
Pamela Braman | 2022-12-15T07:07:23Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Sun Chronicle editorial dramatized an issue that will soon be moot | Letters To Editor | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/letters_to_editor/sun-chronicle-editorial-dramatized-an-issue-that-will-soon-be-moot/article_f4409637-d9d8-50a0-87b4-e03cf3742ae5.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/letters_to_editor/sun-chronicle-editorial-dramatized-an-issue-that-will-soon-be-moot/article_f4409637-d9d8-50a0-87b4-e03cf3742ae5.html |
Free COVID-19 vaccination clinic slated in Attleboro with $75 gift cards being given
A woman gets a COVID-19 vaccination
ATTLEBORO -- A $75 gift card will be given to anyone getting a COVID-19 vaccination or booster during a clinic Friday, Dec. 16, at the Sweet Community House.
Any Massachusetts resident six months or older is eligible.
No ID or proof of insurance is needed to receive the COVID-19 vaccination.
The Sweet Community House and the Attleboro Norton YMCA are hosting the event.
The clinic runs from 2:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
The Sweet Community House is located at 44 Peck St., Attleboro.
There will be another clinic on Friday, Dec. 30, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the same location.
The clinics are part of an effort by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health to promote COVID-19 vaccinations and raise vaccination and booster rates to help prevent illness.
Sweet Community House | 2022-12-15T21:46:18Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Free COVID-19 vaccination clinic slated in Attleboro with $75 gift cards being given | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/free-covid-19-vaccination-clinic-slated-in-attleboro-with-75-gift-cards-being-given/article_5198e8e8-ae41-5950-a260-cc525417a734.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/free-covid-19-vaccination-clinic-slated-in-attleboro-with-75-gift-cards-being-given/article_5198e8e8-ae41-5950-a260-cc525417a734.html |
Mansfield seeking sixth liquor store license
MANSFIELD -- The town may be getting a sixth package store.
A citizen's petition seeking an additional all-alcohol retail license at the Reservoir Landing commercial development at Reservoir Street and Route 140 led to a lengthy discussion at Wednesday's special town meeting.
The request was eventually approved, with several dozen opposed.
The town meeting action requires the town's licensing board, the select board, to seek special legislation from the state legislature to add another liquor license. The town has five all alcoholic liquor licenses and select board members had voted unanimously to support the town meeting request for a sixth.
The petitioner, Amruta Corporation/Mansfield Liquor Market, sought the license for a building in Reservoir Landing that is slated to house a convenience store and liquor store.
John "Jack" Jacobi, an Attleboro attorney representing the petitioner, pointed out all the other liquor stores in Mansfield are on the other side of town and Interstate 495.
"This will serve that side of town," Jacobi said, adding the business will also bring in more revenue and provide jobs.
One resident contended the town had enough liquor stores, and it was pointed out the proposed site is near Xfinity Center.
Another resident noted the Mass Arts Center is in the area and suggested another cultural use such as a museum.
"Another wine store doesn't cut it," the woman said. "Just more nip bottles."
Wayne Smith, who works for Dub's Liquors on Chauncy Street, said the existing liquor stores are struggling with the economy.
Bill Clemmey, who has owned a local liquor store, maintained there would be less traffic uptown with this new liquor store.
Reservoir Landing has a Fairfield Inn, University Orthopedics and an Aroma Joe's coffee shop. It is being developed by Crugnale Properties, which was said to have invested $35 million in the project.
There are two other vacant spots at the site, and some businesses interested in those fell through, partly because of the pandemic and challenging economy, residents were told.
The petitioner also noted there are retail vacancies downtown, at Mansfield Crossing and other locations in town, and a liquor license will go a long way to help lease such space as well as serve a 55-and-over residential community across the street and homes along Reservoir and South Main streets.
John Jacobi | 2022-12-15T23:48:12Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Mansfield seeking sixth liquor store license | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/mansfield-seeking-sixth-liquor-store-license/article_b04e97a7-a3c3-50b9-a72f-6a6e155e3712.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/mansfield-seeking-sixth-liquor-store-license/article_b04e97a7-a3c3-50b9-a72f-6a6e155e3712.html |
North Attleboro store evacuated for gas odor
NORTH ATTLEBORO -- The Target store off Route 1 was evacuated Thursday afternoon due to an odor of gas.
Firefighters responded just before 4 p.m. after a call came in from the store manager They found the odor was concentrated near women's restrooms where floors had just been cleaned, but the smell may have also originated from a customer with the smell of gas on them, fire officials said. | 2022-12-15T23:48:24Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | North Attleboro store evacuated for gas odor | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/north-attleboro-store-evacuated-for-gas-odor/article_d36079b3-9208-514d-a002-c51b11a8475e.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/north-attleboro-store-evacuated-for-gas-odor/article_d36079b3-9208-514d-a002-c51b11a8475e.html |
Homeless teen gets six months in jail for stealing car in Mansfield, leading police on chase
ATTLEBORO — A 19-year-old homeless man was sentenced to serve six months in jail Thursday after pleading guilty to leading police on a high-speed chase in a car stolen from a woman at a Mansfield gas station.
Darrius Fiske, who police say last lived in Taunton, was sentenced in Attleboro District Court to an 18-month jail term with the balance suspended for 18 months with probation, according to court records.
Judge Brian Walsh also ordered Fiske pay $1,000 restitution.
Fiske was arrested May 19 after he was stopped behind a Route 123 restaurant in Norton and has been held on bail since that time.
He was given credit for the time he has served but was not allowed to go free because of a pending larceny warrant lodged against him in Dedham District Court.
Fiske was with another man when they hopped into a car that a woman had left with the engine running to go inside Mansfield Gas and Service at Route 106 and North Main Street.
Police spotted the vehicle on Route 140 traveling an estimated 90 mph but lost sight of it near Norfolk Street.
Norton police picked up the chase on Mansfield Avenue and pursued the vehicle onto West Main Street before Fiske stopped behind Mac and Walt’s burger bar on Old Colony Road.
The passenger, Austin Pacheco, 19, also homeless and of Taunton, was placed on probation for one year in August.
His case was continued without a finding after he admitted there was sufficient evidence to find him guilty of larceny of a motor vehicle and conspiracy.
Car theft suspect found competent to stand trial in Mansfield-Norton car chase
ATTLEBORO — A 19-year-old man who allegedly led police in Mansfield and Norton on a chase in a stolen car in May has been found competent to s…
Driver accused of stealing car from gas station in Mansfield held without bail
Two men apprehended in Norton after allegedly stealing car from Mansfield gas station
Darrius Fiske | 2022-12-16T01:41:22Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Homeless teen gets six months in jail for stealing car in Mansfield, leading police on chase | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/homeless-teen-gets-six-months-in-jail-for-stealing-car-in-mansfield-leading-police-on/article_fd3a7c1d-1ca3-5d57-a927-4c521179a2da.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/homeless-teen-gets-six-months-in-jail-for-stealing-car-in-mansfield-leading-police-on/article_fd3a7c1d-1ca3-5d57-a927-4c521179a2da.html |
Rehoboth roadwork has to wait until spring due to weather
Francis Street roadwork will have to wait until spring to be finished because of winter weather.
REHOBOTH HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT
REHOBOTH — Area drivers will have to withstand the bumps along Francis Street for a few months longer.
“The paving company was unable to finish paving Francis Street due to the cold weather,” the highway department said in a statement. “When the weather gets below a certain temperature, they are unable to put any material on the road. It will not spread or adhere to the road. Unfortunately, because of this the road will not be able to be fixed until the spring.”
“Please accept our sincere apologizes for this. We are truly sorry for the inconvenience,” highway officials added. “At this time, we are asking for your patience with the situation.”
We understand that the road is in poor condition.”
Francis Street runs from Peck Street to Fairview Avenue. | 2022-12-16T01:41:34Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Rehoboth roadwork has to wait until spring due to weather | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/rehoboth-roadwork-has-to-wait-until-spring-due-to-weather/article_26900153-2f6d-5209-aaa2-0df5eb7995d4.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/rehoboth-roadwork-has-to-wait-until-spring-due-to-weather/article_26900153-2f6d-5209-aaa2-0df5eb7995d4.html |
Storm expected to bring wintry mix, high winds to Attleboro area
Damage is seen Wednesday along Schoolhouse Road in Killona, La., after a tornado moved through area. The same storm system was due to hit New England Friday.
A massive storm that brought highway-closing blizzards to the Midwest and spawned deadly tornadoes in the South is sweeping through this area.
Heavy rain and strong winds were forecast to begin overnight Friday and last through Saturday morning, when rain could turn into some snow, meteorologists said. The worst of the storm is expected Friday.
Winds gusting over 30 mph could lead to power failures, area residents and businesses were warned.
Rain could reach up to 2 inches, which likely will cause some street flooding.
Friday’s morning and evening commutes are expected to be a challenge for drivers.
A wind advisory has been issued by the National Weather Service for coastal areas where winds could top 50 mph.
The expansive storm is expected to bring snow west of Worcester but should be out of the area later Saturday. Sunny and dry weather is forecast for the rest of the weekend and into at least early next week.
MassDOT is advising the public to plan ahead if traveling through Saturday, especially in the western part of Massachusetts where up to 2 feet of snow is forecast.
“Plan ahead and make smart decisions about travel as conditions will vary region to region,” MassDOT Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver said.
Utilities this week have been preparing for the storm’s wintry mix and high winds.
“The primary concerns associated with this storm are accumulations of wet heavy snow and gusting winds expected to impact Western and Central Massachusetts, counties, including the Berkshires, Franklin, Hampshire, and Hampden, as well as high winds and rain expected to impact Eastern Massachusetts, Nantucket, and coastal regions of Massachusetts,” National Grid said. “The wind gusts and accumulation of heavy snow have the potential to damage trees and knock down power wires, causing power outages across the region.” | 2022-12-16T05:14:35Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Storm expected to bring wintry mix, high winds to Attleboro area | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/storm-expected-to-bring-wintry-mix-high-winds-to-attleboro-area/article_f2cf0acf-7734-51ff-a1db-0429e273bb6b.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/storm-expected-to-bring-wintry-mix-high-winds-to-attleboro-area/article_f2cf0acf-7734-51ff-a1db-0429e273bb6b.html |
Maybe liquor stores should be banished to industrial parks, too
I have to respectfully disagree with Donald Hebert. My guess is that being a police officer has slanted his view when it comes to marijuana and going a little too far calling it a gateway drug.
I am willing to go out on a twig and guess that 99% of all people have used alcohol before using marijuana, cocaine, or heroin. So with Hebert’s reasoning, wouldn’t that make alcohol the biggest gateway drug of all?
I would also venture to guess that most of our young people experiment with alcohol before anything else. I would also like to add that most problems at sporting events and concerts are tied directly to alcohol use not smoking pot.
Maybe Hebert should take a look around our area and see how liquor licenses are being handing out like candy here until we have a package store on almost every corner. There are really not that many pot shops in our area compared to liquor stores, and that is a plain fact.
Alcohol is the most destructive drug we have in our society today. It’s readily available and for less than $10 you can drink yourself into a stupor on a daily basis. See how much marijuana you can buy and use on a daily basis with the cost through the roof?
Hebert is still living in the past with that stigma about marijuana and the people who use it. Marijuana has some medicinal uses, just ask anyone suffering through chemotherapy, or other painful body issues, where as alcohol has none.
Pot shops are so covered up you hardly know they are there. The store fronts are so plain you have no idea what is inside. Compare that with liquor stores who bright signs outside begging you to come in and try some of the brands they are pushing. Maybe we should follow Hebert’s thinking and only allow liquor stores to be in industrial parks and not out in plain sight.
Aldo Ferrario | 2022-12-16T06:54:44Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Maybe liquor stores should be banished to industrial parks, too | Letters To Editor | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/letters_to_editor/maybe-liquor-stores-should-be-banished-to-industrial-parks-too/article_0b398eaf-76cf-595d-986d-0bc732cc576d.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/letters_to_editor/maybe-liquor-stores-should-be-banished-to-industrial-parks-too/article_0b398eaf-76cf-595d-986d-0bc732cc576d.html |
H.S. INDOOR TRACK: Bishop Feehan girls, boys win meet over Bishop Stang
Bishop Feehan High's Connor McHale, center, races in the boys 300 meters during Thursday's dual meet against Bishop Stang High at Wheaton College’s Haas Athletic Center in Norton.
/THE SUN CHRONICLE
NORTON -- The Bishop Feehan High boys and girls indoor track teams won both of their season-opening meets over Bishop Stang High on Thursday night as at Wheaton College.
The Feehan girls won by a score of 74-25 and the boys won 58-40.
The Shamrock girls took a clean sweep of several events, winning the 300 meters, 1,000 meters, two mile-and the shot put.
Leading the 300 meters was Izza Graziano, finishing at 43.42. Gigi Colleran (45.23) and Emily Roman (49.18) went second and third. Distance specialist Lauryn Augustin clocked a time of 3:12.69 in the 1,000 meters to lead Val Capalbo (3:20.58) and Bridget Sutula (3:25.84). Erin Parkinson (14:00.07) led in the two mile, and was followed by Elaina Flood (14:38.25) and Amy Lawton (14:59.02). In the shot put, Brooke Serak led with a throw of 32 feet, 11 inches and was followed by Grace Gustafson (29-0) and Anna Cinelli (27-2 1/4)
Feehan's girls team also won the 55 meter dash off Meghan Chan's time of 8.01. The Shamrock girls also took the 200 and 400 meter relay, with Kayla Sellers, Emma Fitzgerald, Kalmia Cryan and Molly Duignan winning the 200 at 2:01.27. Emily Roman, Colleran, Izzy Graziano and Capalbo won the 400 at 4:22.54.
In the field, the Feehan girls had a first-place finish by Gigi Colleran in the long jump at 14-9 1/4.
On the boys side, Feehan's Lucas Ribeiro (55 meter hurdles, 8.60), Connor McHale (300 meters, 37.76), Andrew Smith (1,000 meters, 2:49.74), Declan Shannon (mile, 5:04.37) and Ned Dion (two mile, 11:49.73) won individual events for the Shamrocks on the track.
The Shamrocks also had an individual winner in the long jump with McHale clearing 18-05 3/4. Also in the field Jake Gosselin qualified for the MIAA Divisional meet with a shot put toss of 44 feet, 1 and a half feet
The Feehan boys also went on to win both the 200 (Nolan Reilly, Krishiv Kapadia, John Listro and Matt Shaw) and 400 (Mecca Thomas, Liam Wistran, Sean Callaghan, McHale) meter relay, clocking times of 1:42.69 and 3:45.27, respectively. | 2022-12-17T01:55:26Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | H.S. INDOOR TRACK: Bishop Feehan girls, boys win meet over Bishop Stang | | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/h-s-indoor-track-bishop-feehan-girls-boys-win-meet-over-bishop-stang/article_e4833399-9492-5972-92cb-bbaa903d1e66.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/h-s-indoor-track-bishop-feehan-girls-boys-win-meet-over-bishop-stang/article_e4833399-9492-5972-92cb-bbaa903d1e66.html |
Dave Monti: Striped bass on the chopping block again
Capt. BJ Silvia of Flippin’ Out Charters with a prize tautog. Capt. Silvia will be one of the guest panelists at a seminar on bottom fishing Dec. 26 in West Warwick, RI.
Massachusetts will hold a webinar hearing Monday from 6-8 p.m. to discuss commercial quota transfers for striped bass between coastal states as outlined in Addendum 1.
The aim of the addendum to the striped bass management plan is to maximize the commercial harvest of striped bass by allowing states to transfer unused commercial quota to other states that currently maximize their allotment.
In an announcement from the American Saltwater Guides Association, Vice President Tony Friedrich said, “Anglers need to attend this hearing on Monday and voice their concern over commercial transfers. According to the 2022 Striped Bass Stock Assessment Update, the stock remains overfished. Therefore, efforts to intentionally increase striped bass removals are antithetical towards rebuilding goals and objectives.”
“Commercial quota transfers have long been rejected by the Striped Bass Management Board,” Friedrich added. “They were once rejected in the past due to the stock being overfished. Historically, the commercial quota has gone underutilized. Increasing commercial landings, at such a pivotal time for the stock as today, will go against assumptions made by managers and disrupt projections on the stock and rebuilding success.”
The ASGA said in an advisory that, “bottom line — the striped bass stock is still overfished and rebuilding success hinges on maintaining low fishing mortality rates while poor recruitment persists, purposefully increasing commercial landings is not rationale and the Board should oppose this action.”
A similar meeting took place in Rhode Island this past Wednesday, however, public comment will be accepted until 11:59 p.m. of Jan. 13, 2023 and should be sent to comments@asmfc.org (Subject line: Striped Bass Draft Addendum I).
To attend the virtual hearing, visit https://tinyurl.com/39tuy6db.
New England Saltwater Fishing Show in March
The Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association announced the return the New England Saltwater Fishing Show, which will go from Friday, March 10, to Sunday, March 12, at the Rhode Island Convention Center in Providence.
If you like to fish on the salt you are in for a big treat. The show is the largest saltwater fishing show of its type in the Northeast. The show features tackle, rods, reels, lures, electronics, charter guides, boats, engines, accessories, clothing and much more. Over three hundred fishing related manufactures are represented at the show.
“You won’t want to miss the show specials offered by exhibitors and the great ‘how to’ seminars being offered by some of our areas top fishers.” said Greg Vespe, Executive Director of the Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association. “Learn strategies and tactics to target the species that we all love to catch, eat or release … striped bass, summer flounder, tautog and a host of others.”
“With three months until showtime, about 70% of the booths have been sold and more are going every week,” Vespe added. “Don’t wait and lose the chance to exhibit your products and services to the more than 12,000 to 15,000 visitors expected to attend this year’s Show.”
Exhibitors will include charter services, tackle shops, rod and reel manufacturers, marine electronics, new and used boat dealers, marine plastics and metal fabricators, fishing publications, outdoor clothing, offshore wind developers, fish and wildlife regulators, towing services, non-profit organizations, marine artwork, jewelry and food vendors.
For information, contact Greg Vespe at 401-826-2121.
Bottom fishing seminar on Dec. 26
If you are an angler that likes to fish for tasty bottom fish such as tautog, black sea bass, summer flounder or cod, then you won’t want to miss the Rhode Island Saltwater Angles Associaton seminar on Dec. 26 at the Coventry Elks Lodge, 60 Clyde Street, West Warwick, RI. It will begin at 7 p.m.
Panelists at the seminar will include charter captains EJ Harris, John Lee, BJ Silvia and Daphne Foster.
Dinner will be served by the Elks Lodge caterer from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Cost of the meal is separate. The public is invited to attend with a $10 donation to the scholarship fund, and no charge for RISAA members. For further information, contact Vespe at 401-826-2121.
Freshwater: Anglers are reminded to renew their licenses for salt and fresh water for 2023. For licensing information and a list of trout stocked ponds in Rhode Island visit RI Freshwater Fisheries Updates & Frequently Asked Questions at the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management. In Massachusetts, visit mass.gov/freshwater-fishing-information .
Holiday gifts and gift certificates for anglers are available at local bait & tackle shops at all price points. Consult with shop owners as they can make helpful suggestions.
Cod: Fishing off Rhode Island and Massachusetts south of Cape Cod is a good bet in winter months. Party boats fishing for cod this winter include the Frances Fleet at francesfleet.com, the Seven B’s at sevenbs.com, and the Island Current at islandcurrent.com. Rates vary, but are about $135 per adult for a full day of fishing, call to check schedules and make a reservation.
Saltwater Anglers Association
Tony Friedrich | 2022-12-17T04:10:56Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Dave Monti: Striped bass on the chopping block again | Local Sports | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/dave-monti-striped-bass-on-the-chopping-block-again/article_643ac686-9e27-5280-acb9-b166e9db1f7b.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/dave-monti-striped-bass-on-the-chopping-block-again/article_643ac686-9e27-5280-acb9-b166e9db1f7b.html |
Bluestone Bank partnership with Stonehill College allows students to pitch ideas
Stonehill College students presented ideas to a panel of Bluestone Bank leadership representatives on Nov. 29.
Photo courtesy of Bluestone Bank
EASTON — Bluestone Bank’s partnership with Stonehill College allows students the opportunity to pitch ideas to a real-life company as they prepare to enter the workforce after graduation.
For their fall Capstone Project, Stonehill Associate Professor of Management Bob Spencer asked his students, “How can Bluestone Bank better contribute to the financial literacy and learning of its customers and its broader community?”
The students spent the semester working with their teams and learning more about Bluestone Bank through members of the bank’s leadership team. Then, they presented their ideas to a panel of Bluestone Bank leadership representatives on Tuesday, Nov. 29. Among the presenters was Joe Costa of Foxboro.
“Stonehill and Bluestone have an incredibly long and deep relationship,” Spencer said. “They provide valuable insight to my students and always give us challenging assignments, and it has just been very beneficial for all parties involved.”
Allowing students to do a project on Bluestone and present their ideas has provided the bank with new strategies to best target its audience.
On site at the presentations, Bluestone Senior Vice President and Customer Experience Officer Carie Bailey, said, “This partnership is so beneficial for not only Bluestone Bank, but for area businesses to hear thoughts from college students because they are the next generation. They will be the ones leading our businesses in the future.”
Stonehill students’ ability to gain real-world experience in the industry highlights the mutually beneficial nature of the partnership. One of the senior student presenters, Bridget Ryan, said, “I think the biggest takeaway was getting an actual consulting experience with people in the same age group and at the same level of schooling. Usually [professors] just give us dummy companies and have us do a case study on them, but working with real people on a real subject adds value to the project.” | 2022-12-17T06:16:40Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Bluestone Bank partnership with Stonehill College allows students to pitch ideas | Business | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/business/bluestone-bank-partnership-with-stonehill-college-allows-students-to-pitch-ideas/article_73efb409-67bd-503c-a7af-697d53aca308.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/business/bluestone-bank-partnership-with-stonehill-college-allows-students-to-pitch-ideas/article_73efb409-67bd-503c-a7af-697d53aca308.html |
Bill Zuck: Cherished memories of 'senior moments'
We were on a conference call — a routine, boring, mundane conference call — and for a few moments, my colleague forgot what she wanted to say.
After several seconds of awkward silence, she remembered, and all was well. “Sorry,” she apologized to us all, “It slipped my mind. Just having a senior moment.”
It’s a common enough term, and yet I hadn’t heard it in months or even years. Since I frequently visit older adults in my job as a hospice social worker, I’ve developed a certain sensitivity to displays of ageism, both big and small. For the first time, that well-worn phrase didn’t sit right with me.
What, after all, is a “senior moment?” It’s a brief occurrence in time in which our brain somehow fails us; it’s a breakdown in memory or speech or orientation, our neurons misfiring or sleeping on the job. In calling it a “moment,” though, I wonder if we’re subconsciously reassuring ourselves that we’re not in the same realm as those feeble, broken-down older adults. We only dipped a toe in that water, and for the slightest duration — just a moment, after all — but now we’re OK!
Lest I be accused of taking myself too seriously, I understand that the point of the phrase is to lighten the mood, to chuckle at one’s own imperfections.
On the other hand, the joke irks me just a bit, the way I’m mildly irritated when school children dress up as old people for the 100th day of school and elicit chuckles from parents, teachers, and other kids with their bushy eyebrows, oversized glasses, and makeshift walkers and canes.
Wouldn’t it be nice if the connotation were shifted from a tone of gentle mockery to one of respect and appreciation?
Why should a “senior moment” indicate impairment or deficiency, rather than love or beauty?
It’s time, I think, to reinvent the senior moment. Whenever I hear the phrase now, I want to be reminded of the sunny day I watched my paternal grandfather shuck freshly caught clams in the garage, or the exciting/scary time my maternal grandfather let me sit with him and steer his tractor when I could barely get my arms around the wheel. I’d like to recall holidays with my grandparents and their attendance at my high school band and college orchestra concerts.
My senior moment from several summers ago would be sitting with a patient in rocking chairs on the patio at his assisted living, silently and contentedly watching the traffic on the street whiz by. And then, still silently rocking as my patient enthusiastically argued about politics with the senior in another nearby rocking chair. And yes, there was the senior moment a couple weeks ago when I visited a patient just after she passed, and I got to witness the sadness and beauty of her family hugging and comforting one another around the bed.
It’s time we changed the meaning of this phase. I suppose my new and improved definition of a senior moment would be one that reminds you to appreciate the loving people in your life, the pleasures and comforts we have, and the experiences that we get to go through — even the boring, mundane conference calls at work.
BILL ZUCK is not going to make a joke about forgetting where he put his keys. You can reach him at wcz78@yahoo.com. | 2022-12-17T06:17:36Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Bill Zuck: Cherished memories of 'senior moments' | Columns | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/columns/bill-zuck-cherished-memories-of-senior-moments/article_752ebb18-90c1-5a2c-863e-2f0568f8502c.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/columns/bill-zuck-cherished-memories-of-senior-moments/article_752ebb18-90c1-5a2c-863e-2f0568f8502c.html |
H.S. BOYS BASKETBALL: King Philip drops season opener to Franklin
WRENTHAM — The King Philip Regional High boys basketball team dropped its season opener Friday night at home to Franklin High, losing 58-50.
The Warriors trailed 24-22 at halftime, but couldn’t keep up in the final minutes, getting outscored 18-13 in the fourth quarter to seal the loss.
“It was a very hard-fought game,” King Philip head coach Dave DeStefano said. “It was close the whole way. In the last quarter, they kind of ran away with it.”
Will Laplante had 18 points to lead King Philip. Tommy Kilroy had 12 points.
DeStefano liked the defensive pressure from the Warriors on Friday night, and added the team has bought into the process after getting a late start to the season due to KP’s football season.
“I thought our defensive intensity through three quarters was very good,” DeStefano said. “I thought we did a good job of adding pressure and forcing turnovers, which then created some easy offense for us.”
King Philip (0-1) next plays Tuesday, hosting Oliver Ames.
ATTLEBORO — The Bombardiers found themselves in another hard-fought Hockomock League battle before coming out on top of the Scarlet Hawks.
Attleboro and Milford went back and forth, with the Bombardiers clinging to a 25-22 lead entering halftime. Milford rallied to take the lead entering the fourth quarter at 39-38 but Attleboro pulled away in the fourth quarter with 25 points.
Spencer Sherck racked up four charges on defense to help sway momentum of the game for the Bombardiers as Mike Beverly had a team-high 14 points, seven in the fourth quarter.
Attleboro (1-1) hosts Stoughton on Tuesday.
FOXBORO — The Hornets turned back the Warriors in a tight battle, getting 17 points from Chris Hill to lead the way.
TAUNTON — The Rocketeers fell to 0-2 on the season as Jonnie Obuchowski and Derek Maceda each had a team-high nine points. Ayden Delaney and Ryan Bannon each had eight points.
North Attleboro plays again on Tuesday, hosting Mansfield.
SEEKONK — Seekonk was outscored 42-16 in the second half in its loss to Wareham.
The Warriors were led by Noah Beausoleil’s 17 points. Kevin Crowe added 10 points. Seekonk (0-3) returns to play Joseph Case on Tuesday.
FAIRHAVEN — Dighton-Rehoboth received some timely scoring in its win over Fairhaven, with Jordan Dietz leading all scorers with 18 points.
The Falcons played strong on defense and didn’t allow a 3-pointer. Kyle Mello scored 13 points for D-R.
D-R (2-0) returns on Tuesday, hosting Somerset Berkley.
MEDWAY — Marquise Pina scored 20 points and had six rebounds, for Norton, but it wasn’t enough.
The Lancers (2-1) host Dedham on Tuesday. | 2022-12-17T06:17:54Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | H.S. BOYS BASKETBALL: King Philip drops season opener to Franklin | Local Sports | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-boys-basketball-king-philip-drops-season-opener-to-franklin/article_b38c27e5-8c47-52cb-b3aa-4c38848f4ed4.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-boys-basketball-king-philip-drops-season-opener-to-franklin/article_b38c27e5-8c47-52cb-b3aa-4c38848f4ed4.html |
Larry Kessler: Seasons greetings from Chanukah Charlie
Hanukkah, the eight-day Jewish Festival of Lights, will begin at sundown Sunday, with the first of eight candles being lit, and the last one will be lit Christmas night. (Jewish holidays are observed from sunset to sunset, so Hanukkah’s first and last days will be Dec. 19 and 26. Last year, the holiday started the Sunday after Thanksgiving, while next year it will start at sundown Dec. 7.)
When the holiday falls annually is just one of many Hanukkah facts worth explaining, but this year the need to educate people is especially urgent due to the ongoing rise of antisemitism in the United States.
I recently wrote two Sun Chronicle columns about the phenomenon, but the situation is getting even more worrisome.
Recently, Ye — the entertainer formerly known as Kanye West, who in October tweeted he wanted to go “death con 3 On JEWISH PEOPLE” — dined with former President Donald Trump and virulent antisemite, Holocaust denier Nick Fuentes. The dinner had been set up by antisemite Milo Yiannopoulos.
Ye then got himself kicked off Twitter, again, after tweeting a swastika inside a star of David. He also went on Alex Jones’ show and said something that should make veterans and students of World War II history shiver: “The Jewish media has made us feel like the Nazis and Hitler have never offered anything of value to the world.” He went even further saying that he sees “good things about Hitler and that every human has something of value ... especially Hitler.”
The fact that Ye could openly express such insane, history-defying views about the Nazis without much widespread condemnation speaks volumes about how out of hand antisemitism has become.
Lately, far too many politicians have been relatively quiet about the explosion of antisemitic posts, remarks and conspiracy theories that seek to normalize the hatred that led to the slaughter of 6 million Jews and 5 million non-Jews in death camps.
The silence of far too many toward the rise of antisemitism makes the need for education about Jewish holidays critical, which is why I’m again telling the story of Hanukkah through my alter ego, Chanukah Charlie.
It’s my hope that Charlie’s open-book quiz, delivered with humor, will act as a deterrent to the hateful comments, which are pushing antisemitism dangerously close to the mainstream.
1. Hanukkah is celebrated because:
A. Cooks can’t resist making potato pancakes called “latkes.”
B. Even with record inflation, you can never have too many reasons to shop.
C. A victory in 164 BCE (Before the Common Era, which is how Judaism refers to 164 BC) by rebels over a bigger army preserved Judaism from extinction.
2. On Hanukkah, we light:
A. Hanukkah bushes.
B. A candelabra called a menorah.
C. Eight trees.
3. Judah commanded the force that beat the Syrian Greeks. They were called:
A. The Temple Defenders.
B. Judah’s Army.
C. The Maccabees.
4. How long did it take the Maccabees to win and re-enter the temple after the Syrian Greeks desecrated it?
A. More time than state lawmakers get to review bills sent to them at the last minute.
B. Three years.
C. Faster than a Yankees-Red Sox game.
5. The king of the Syrian Greeks was:
A. Belichick the All-Powerful.
B. Alexander the Great.
C. Antiochus IV.
6. Antiochus forbid the Jewish people from:
A. Eating kosher food and praying.
B. Teaching and practicing Judaism and studying the Torah (the five books of Moses of the Old Testament).
C. All of the above.
7. The miracle of Chanukah is that:
A. Latkes cost less than gold.
B. The temple was rededicated. (Chanukah means dedication.)
C. One day of oil kept the menorah lit eight days.
8. How do you put the candles in the menorah? (A new candle, along with the “shamus” or server candle, is added nightly.)
A. Right to left, and light them left to right so the oldest candle is put in first and the newest is lit first.
B. Same as B, only in reverse.
C. Flip a chocolate coin called “gelt” to decide where to start.
9. What’s a dreidel?
A. A toy not requiring an Xbox.
B. A spinning top with Hebrew letters.
C. A toy without batteries.
10. The dreidel game is played:
A. Whenever you want.
B. On the floor or coffee table.
C. After dinner with your family.
11. In the game, the winner gets the pot (usually pennies or gelt) if the dreidel:
A. Lands on the Hebrew letter “shin.”
B. Lands on the Hebrew letter “hay.”
C. A. Lands on the Hebrew letter “gimel.”
12. Which English spelling of the holiday is acceptable?
A. H—a—n—u—k—k—a—h.
B. C—h—a—n—u—k—a—h.
C. H—a—n—u—k—a—h.
BONUS FACT 1: (True or false) Hanukkah falls on the same day every year.
BONUS FACT 2: Hanukkah’s date changes yearly in relation to the common calendar because the Hebrew calendar is a lunar one that loses time. To compensate, a leap year with a 13th month in the mid-winter, called Adar II, is added every few years.
Larry Kessler is a retired Sun Chronicle news editor. Reach him at larrythek65@gmail.com. He blogs at larrytheklineup.blogspot.com. He still likes latkes and dreidels. | 2022-12-17T08:14:05Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Larry Kessler: Seasons greetings from Chanukah Charlie | Columns | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/columns/larry-kessler-seasons-greetings-from-chanukah-charlie/article_55fda2b3-431f-5545-9a9d-3f262355b668.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/columns/larry-kessler-seasons-greetings-from-chanukah-charlie/article_55fda2b3-431f-5545-9a9d-3f262355b668.html |
Oreste D'Arconte: Kisses from the heavens
So, snow has fallen. Let the season begin. Who knows, we might even see some more before Mother Nature goes back to nurturing seeds. After all, real winter is just around the corner.
Ah, snow. It’s just so, so — magical. Some believe because snow is white and pure when it falls, it symbolizes a spiritual awakening and cleansing. One superstition says if you get together with someone you like to watch the first snowfall, love will blossom.
Historical lore tells us Nero sent runners from Rome into the Alps to bring back snow for an ice cream-like dessert he favored. Emperors can do that, I guess.
And did you know that eating the tongue of a male fox can cause snow-blindness?
Not only that, but Japanese tradition says Yuki-onna — a beautiful, pale giant of a woman — lures people into blizzards until they die. Gruesome. So watch out.
When it snows, to avoid bad luck you should put a spoon under your pillow, flush ice cubes down the toilet, put your pajamas on backward and inside out, and brush your teeth with your left hand if you’re right-handed, and vice versa.
Hey, this is all true. I couldn’t make this stuff up.
Snow was either a dangerous thing to eat or a healing substance, and people were urged for health reasons to run barefoot in the snow. For a couple of decades I ran through snow in a bathing suit and jumped into the ocean at noon on New Year’s Day in Jamestown. Me and a couple of hundred other folks. And I climbed out of an indoor heated pool a time or two and raced outside to roll sans swimsuit in the snow before jumping back in the pool. Hasn’t everyone …?
So, next time it snows, don’t think about where you left your shovel, just gaze out the window and enjoy it. And stand by someone you love and think about being together a long time. Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow.
“The winter queen looks up and sighs: I wish that I controlled the skies. For up above is where to stand. To rule those who walk on the land.”
— Phish
Last week I bet you couldn’t tell me the most common names in the United States for female and male cats. I said I’d settle for one of the names. My answer: Luna and Oliver. Getting both right were Bert H. (she must read the paper closely; that’s where I saw it the other week).
Wrote one reader: “All the names we bestowed were a direct reflection of their appearance (Ginger, Junco, etc.) or specific status (Mama Kitty, Sonny, etc.). While I have no clue to the correct answer to your question, I doubt if any of these budge the hand on the meter. Not even my pet name (no pun intended) for many of them: ‘Fur Bag.’ So I yield and look forward to being enlightened.”
Another reader guessed Tabby and Tiger, adding, “And I take umbrage at the reader who said only the elderly would get the nattering nabobs question right last week. If nothing else, it was referenced on a ‘Gilmore Girls’ episode!”
Another reader who I have been going back and forth with on the white and pingpong balls question a couple of weeks ago, wrote that I was right, adding: “However, riddles that start with barrels of pingpong balls are irresistible for anyone with an interest in mathematics. Sorta like ‘a man walks into a bar’ jokes!”
Now, I bet you can’t tell me, without looking it up, what was the first movie to depict a same-sex marriage. Hint: It’s a classic film released in 1934 and usually shown at Christmastime. Deadline is noon Tuesday.
ORESTE P. D’ARCONTE is a former publisher of The Sun Chronicle. Reach him at opd999@gmail.com. | 2022-12-17T08:14:11Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Oreste D'Arconte: Kisses from the heavens | Columns | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/columns/oreste-darconte-kisses-from-the-heavens/article_3f7a06df-edf0-5894-b5dd-ba408c6f63d6.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/columns/oreste-darconte-kisses-from-the-heavens/article_3f7a06df-edf0-5894-b5dd-ba408c6f63d6.html |
North Attleboro High girls lace up for Hockomock Stars varsity hockey squad
North Attleboro High students, from left, Brittany Nordbeck, Grace Cabeceiras and Ava O’Dwyer, along with Alana Rice, not pictured, joined the Foxboro/Mansfield/Oliver Ames girls hockey team. The team is now named the Hockomock Stars.
North Attleboro High’s (from left) Brittany Nordbeck, Grace Cabeceiras and Ava O’Dwyer are members of the Hockomock Stars.
High school girls’ hockey is getting a Red Rocketeer boost in the area.
A co-op team with players from Mansfield, Foxboro and Oliver Ames has expanded to include players from seven other high schools. Now called the Hockomock Stars, it’s the first time the girls from North Attleboro — Brittany Nordbeck, Grace Cabeceiras, Ava O’Dwyer and Alana Rice — have been a part of an all-girls varsity hockey team, co-op or otherwise.
Two North female players previously played on North’s varsity boys hockey team about 15 years ago.
With the Stars expanding the co-op, head coach Jamie Mullen said there’s a lot of good to come out of the additions which makes for an exciting future.
“Seven schools, three quarters of the team, they’re brand new,” Mullen said. “They’re gelling well so far. Off the ice you can see the bonds forming and that’s the exciting part. There’s a lot of good to come.”
Mullen said Cabeceiras has exhibited leadership and energy so far this season.
“I mentioned something to Brittany (Nordbeck) about her getting some playing time and Grace overheard it and her response was she was so happy for Brittany,” Mullen said. “It was so great, there was no jealously ... she was so happy for her friend.
Cabeceiras’ energy is not unusual, and is displayed by the team as a whole.
Mullen said the newcomers bring a range of experience to the team, as well. Dwyer had never skated in a hockey environment before, and Rice had played locally for the North Devils prior to high school.
“Ava, she’s new to the sport, she’s got such determination. You can see such passion in her and is so coachable,” Mullen said. “(Rice) has got a little experience under her belt.”
Despite not getting off to a strong start, Mullen said the team’s improvement is shown every day. Minutes are dished out each day to provide opportunities to grow, and each player complements one another, including the North quartet.
The Stars sat at 0-2 entering Friday, but have plenty of season left to show their potential.
Ava O'dwyer
Grace Cabeceiras | 2022-12-17T17:00:51Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | North Attleboro High girls lace up for Hockomock Stars varsity hockey squad | Local Sports | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/north-attleboro-high-girls-lace-up-for-hockomock-stars-varsity-hockey-squad/article_d268240e-0eba-5498-93e2-ac3b12cd7dcd.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/north-attleboro-high-girls-lace-up-for-hockomock-stars-varsity-hockey-squad/article_d268240e-0eba-5498-93e2-ac3b12cd7dcd.html |
Gift drive in memory of Norton police officer helps those in need
Thirty-nine Norton families representing 93 children picked up donated toys and gift certificates Saturday as part of the inaugural Norton Community Holiday Toy Drive.
Thomas Petersen Jr.
NORTON -- A few dozen families will have a brighter holiday with the help of a local gift drive.
Thirty-seven Norton families representing 90 children Saturday picked up donated toys and gift certificates as part of the Norton Community Holiday Toy Drive.
A "Toy Store" was set up at Valentine Tool on West Main Street (Route 123).
"Volunteers have worked tirelessly to turn this workshop into a store that we are all proud of," organizer Michelle Petersen said.
The drive has been a weeks-long effort.
"Over the past month, over 800 toys and gift cards have been collected for Norton residents in need," Petersen said.
About 700 toys and $3,000 in gift cards were distributed Saturday, and an additional $2,000 in gift cards will be distributed to high school students in need as well.
The gifts were collected by the C2 Foundation, a local organization created in memory of Deputy Police Chief Thomas Petersen, Michelle Petersen's husband, as well as town police and Norton High School Math Honor Society students.
"The incredible generosity and efforts of our community have been amazing and I am certain that this drive will be even more successful next year," Petersen said.
The organizer singled out Larry Valentine for allowing the use of his space and Bog Iron Brewing on West Main Street for hosting the toy drive.
Yelle School was also a drop-off location. | 2022-12-18T22:01:48Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Gift drive in memory of Norton police officer helps those in need | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/gift-drive-in-memory-of-norton-police-officer-helps-those-in-need/article_0840de99-b403-593a-a265-7d822aa30fbb.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/gift-drive-in-memory-of-norton-police-officer-helps-those-in-need/article_0840de99-b403-593a-a265-7d822aa30fbb.html |
Election officials: Voters in Attleboro area who mail ballots need to ensure they follow directions for them to count
A banner outside North Attleboro Town hall directs voters for early voting.
There’s still some education needed for voters who choose to participate in mail-in balloting.
Almost 3%, (2.78%) of those mailing their ballots in Attleboro for the Nov. 8 state election did not follow instructions.
But on a positive note, that means about 97% did.
Here’s the breakdown for the city.
There were 68 ballots returned with no inner envelope which is crucial because that’s where the voter signs swearing that he or she is who he or she says he or she is. Those ballots were not counted.
Another 97 ballots were returned with the inner envelope, but the voter did not sign it. Those ballots also were not counted.
Another 20 ballots were received too late to be counted. They were received after Nov. 12 at 5 p.m.
And another three mail-in ballots were received with the wrong ballot enclosed.
The ballot enclosed was the state primary ballot that must have been lying around someone’s home and got stuffed into the envelope by accident and, of course, those ballots were not counted.
In addition, another 37 ballots could not be delivered to the voters because the addresses were wrong.
Whoever applied for the mail-in ballot had apparently moved between the application and the delivery date of the ballot.
Leslie Veiga, the city’s election administrator, said those who filed incorrectly were given a second chance to vote.
“A lot of them did get a second chance and a good number of the second ballots were returned,” she said.
And yes, some made mistakes on the second chance as well, but the number was smaller — less than five — she said.
Those people got a third chance and last time to vote, Veiga said.
All told, 6,749 Attleboro voters chose to mail-in their ballots for the state election.
Out of the 15,456 registered voters who cast ballots in the state election, that number equals 43.66%.
Meanwhile, the 15,456 voters who cast ballots equal 46.71% of the city’s 33,091 registered voters.
In the 2018 state election, 15,986 people voted, which equals 53.96%. That number is 530 more than voted on Nov. 8.
But on Nov. 8, there were 3,470 more registered voters in Attleboro than in 2018, so the percentage voting is a lot lower even though the numbers of those voting are fairly close.
In neighboring communities, the story with mail-in ballots was often similar.
According to Pat Dolan, election coordinator for the town’s election commission, North Attleboro mailed out a little under 5,400 ballots and all but 817 were returned. (A total of 11,420 votes were cast in the November election, 51.03% of the town’s registered voters.)
Of the mail in votes, 142 were rejected for various reasons:
42 mail-in ballots were rejected because the person had already cast a vote, probably, Dolan said, because the individual had cast an early vote. In those cases the mail-in vote was rejected automatically.
30 were missing the inner envelope with the voter’s signature.
39 had no signature on the inner envelope.
Nine came back as undeliverable.
10 were received after the deadline.
Other votes were rejected for a variety of reasons. One voter had mailed in September’s primary ballot instead of the November one.
One envelope did not have a ballot in it.
In another case, the voter had died before receiving the ballot. Five voters needed replacement ballots.
Dolan said many of the voters whose ballots were rejected — although not those who had voted early or whose ballots were received late — were sent a second ballot and were able to vote.
In Mansfield, the total number of vote by mail requests was 5,606, with the overall turnout by mail and in person at 10,232 residents.
“I would estimate there were approximately 100-150 that either forgot to sign the envelope, gave us a wrong address (i.e. dorms), not enclosing the inner envelope etc.,” Town Clerk Marianne Staples said by email.
Not Signed
Regostered Voters | 2022-12-19T04:50:54Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Election officials: Voters in Attleboro area who mail ballots need to ensure they follow directions for them to count | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/election-officials-voters-in-attleboro-area-who-mail-ballots-need-to-ensure-they-follow-directions/article_4c29f918-ed4d-54f4-8a63-d4317eacd8fd.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/election-officials-voters-in-attleboro-area-who-mail-ballots-need-to-ensure-they-follow-directions/article_4c29f918-ed4d-54f4-8a63-d4317eacd8fd.html |
North Attleboro teachers to receive up to 2.5 percent boost annually in pay under newly-approved contract
Woodcock Administration Building in North Attleboro. (File photo.)
MARK STOCKWELL / The Sun Chronicle/
NORTH ATTLEBORO — The school district has reached a new contract with the union representing the town’s teachers.
The school committee voted to approve the new three-year pact at its meeting Wednesday.
The terms of the contract, retroactive to the Aug. 31 expiration of the old agreement, include a 2.25% increase in base pay for the first year, a 2.5% increase in the next year and a 2.25% for the final year.
The cost of the current year’s contract is built into this fiscal year’s budget. Future years are part of the budget presentation to be reviewed this year, school committee chairman Ethan Hamilton said.
Hamilton said budget talks with the North Attleboro Federation of Teachers “went smoothly,” in contrast to more contentious talks in other school districts in the state.
NAFT president Nicole Reminder said union members ratified the contract last month.
This is the last of the school district’s bargaining units to reach contract agreements with the town.
The school committee in October approved contracts with cafeteria workers, teachers’ aides and department office workers. All three of those contracts are retroactive to 2021 and run to 2024. | 2022-12-19T04:51:07Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | North Attleboro teachers to receive up to 2.5 percent boost annually in pay under newly-approved contract | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/north-attleboro-teachers-to-receive-up-to-2-5-percent-boost-annually-in-pay-under/article_3a7d2f68-bec9-5410-becb-cb3b5d146e46.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/north-attleboro-teachers-to-receive-up-to-2-5-percent-boost-annually-in-pay-under/article_3a7d2f68-bec9-5410-becb-cb3b5d146e46.html |
North Attleboro officials ask residents to weigh in on revised town seal
The revised version of North Attleboro’s town seal, which officials say is still “a work in progress.”
North Attleboro’s current town seal.
NORTH ATTLEBORO — Call it a variation on a theme.
A potential replacement for the town’s colorful — if dated — town seal preserves its history while giving the community an image for its brand, the town councilor who has been working on an update says.
“As we continue to grow our town we want to make sure our brand, our seal, truly pays homage to our history,” Town Councilor Andrea Slobogan said in an email. “I took this project on as a way to pay respect to our history and help to restore our seal.”
Slobogan presented the image — a “work in progress,” she calls it — to councilors at their most recent meeting. Town Manager Michael Borg had broached the idea of an updated seal in April.
As shown at the meeting last Monday, the proposed revisions keep all the elements of the current seal. Only a black-and-white version was shown, but it featured a clearer depiction of the various elements of the image, including the female figure at the center of the seal who is holding laurel wreaths in her outstretched hands.
Other elements on the seal remain — a factory building, gear wheel and anvil represent industry while a plow and cornucopia stand for agriculture. Slobogan told councilors that the redesign — based on an image of a painted sign — makes it clear that there are fruits and vegetables “and not tennis balls” pouring out of the cornucopia at the female figure’s feet.
“The issue we are seeing is that there are different variations of the seal. Some have lakes or rivers and some have clouds and no clouds,” Slobogan wrote.
After speaking with fellow councilors Andrew Shanahan and Kathleen Prescott, who also worked on the redesign with local artist Maris Cummings, “it was clear that the mission was to preserve history and create one single vector file to use for all purposes.” A final version version could appear on shirts, letterheads, town vehicles, social media and more, she said.
“There are still more tweaks that need to be made and then moved to color,” Slobogan wrote. “Once this has been completed, the intention is to have one single vector file that can be used as our historic brand seal.”
At Monday’s meeting, council President Justin Pare said he hoped the public would weigh in on the revisions, setting up a possible council vote on a new design at some point.
Slobogan wrote, “I look forward to finishing this up and sharing it with the council and our community to find out the next steps.” | 2022-12-19T04:51:13Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | North Attleboro officials ask residents to weigh in on revised town seal | | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/north-attleboro-officials-ask-residents-to-weigh-in-on-revised-town-seal/article_769e829f-b29b-54ea-993c-4b03c3a013fb.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/north-attleboro-officials-ask-residents-to-weigh-in-on-revised-town-seal/article_769e829f-b29b-54ea-993c-4b03c3a013fb.html |
H.S. WRESTLING: Norton controls mat in win over North Attleboro
NORTH ATTLEBORO -- The Norton High wrestling team took a dual win over North Attleboro High on Saturday, winning 53-26.
The Rocketeers won five weights, starting at 106. Jayden Mendes pinned Norton's Quinn Shurtleff in the first period, then Alexander Robin (126) earned a win for the Rocketeers, pinning Kayin Greaves at 3:50, and Braxton Ferro (145) and Austin Dean (160) also earned wins by fall.
Masen Oyola won by a decision, edging out Matthew Guiney in a 10-7 score.
The Lancers had seven wins by fall in the first period. Kate Connell (113, 0:49), Jaylon Pardo (120, 1:13), Jason Winston (132, 1:54), Maxx Bieksha (138, 0:49), Gabriel Thomsson (170, 1:08), Brandon Lasker (182, 1:18) and Amani Vicente (220, 0:54) all won their respective weights in the respective times.
At 195, Gavin Luciano pinned Aprameya Pandit in the third period at a time of 4:57. | 2022-12-19T04:51:38Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | H.S. WRESTLING: Norton controls mat in win over North Attleboro | Sports | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/h-s-wrestling-norton-controls-mat-in-win-over-north-attleboro/article_d48567e9-07cb-5f60-aef1-a7e21ad098df.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/h-s-wrestling-norton-controls-mat-in-win-over-north-attleboro/article_d48567e9-07cb-5f60-aef1-a7e21ad098df.html |
Editorial failed to mention affects of alcohol in tragedy
Re: “Thanks to the good guys,” editorial, Dec. 16:
It is disappointing that your recent editorial, did not mention a pertinent fact regarding a significant contributing cause for the stabbing death of a local resident long ago: there was the imbibing of alcohol beforehand.
It is well-known that the consumption of alcohol impairs human self-restraint, good personal judgment, and other serious deleterious effects.
What person is there that has not been affected by, or has known about, alcohol abuse? Does not this plague often lead to many tragedies of various kinds?
America is an alcohol-soaked society, unfortunately. | 2022-12-19T07:40:44Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Editorial failed to mention affects of alcohol in tragedy | Letters To Editor | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/letters_to_editor/editorial-failed-to-mention-affects-of-alcohol-in-tragedy/article_7eb3b77e-ea26-5095-b72f-0cb1e9dafe0b.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/letters_to_editor/editorial-failed-to-mention-affects-of-alcohol-in-tragedy/article_7eb3b77e-ea26-5095-b72f-0cb1e9dafe0b.html |
H.S. WRESTLING: Tri-County wins Marshield SuperQuad
MARSHFIELD -- The Tri-County Regional wrestling team dominated the Marshfield SuperQuad on Saturday, earning five dual wins.
Tri-County beat Marshfield (67-12), Scituate (70-12), Pembroke (60-21) and Oliver Ames (49-28). The Cougars also beat Rhode Island's Toll Gate, 51-23.
Standout performances came from Aidan Weeman (120), Brandon Allen (126), Cole King (160), Owen Maag (220) and Jace Silva (285) to help move the Cougars to 9-0 on the season. | 2022-12-20T01:40:34Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | H.S. WRESTLING: Tri-County wins Marshield SuperQuad | Local Sports | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-wrestling-tri-county-wins-marshield-superquad/article_36221ced-14b1-5f69-aba8-410338cc75cd.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-wrestling-tri-county-wins-marshield-superquad/article_36221ced-14b1-5f69-aba8-410338cc75cd.html |
In columnist's mind, there are conspiracies everywhere
In columnist’s mind, there are conspiracies everywhere
Re: “The politics of influence,” by Bob Foley, column, Dec. 16:
According to Bob Foley, there’s a communist under every Democrat’s bed.
I haven’t seen him go on about how the former education secretary, Betsy DeVos (along with her family), donated $14 million to Republicans prior to getting her position.
Conspiracies only involve Democrats and pizzas, I guess. Keep us updated on more QAnon information Mr. Foley. | 2022-12-20T06:01:28Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | In columnist's mind, there are conspiracies everywhere | Letters To Editor | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/letters_to_editor/in-columnists-mind-there-are-conspiracies-everywhere/article_7835e647-c302-5f8c-b459-56a6fa06ab26.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/letters_to_editor/in-columnists-mind-there-are-conspiracies-everywhere/article_7835e647-c302-5f8c-b459-56a6fa06ab26.html |
Our View: Plainridge's integrity faces a test
Plainridge Park Casino has a lot on the line this week.
Penn Entertainment, owners of the Plainville slots parlor, has a hearing before the Massachusetts Gaming Commission Tuesday as it seeks a sports betting license for Plainridge.
While Encore Boston, one of three Massachusetts casinos, was quickly approved to be the state’s first sports betting venue, the Gaming Commission put the brakes on Penn’s application due to its association with Barstool Sports.
There’s a lot to question.
Penn has a 36% ownership in Barstool now and plans to take full ownership by 2023.
The plan calls a Barstool-branded bar in Plainridge and for the company to market sports betting for the casino.
Penn has so deeply embraced Barstool that Jay Snowden, the company’s president and CEO, said at the January 2020 announcement of its acquisition that “Barstool Sports is the ideal partner for Penn National and will enable us to attract a new, younger demographic …”
But Barstool’s “brand” targets young men with raunchy images and humor. The most significant concern, however, is the company’s attempts to goad young people to bet significant sums on sporting events, according to Barstool critics.
Earlier this month, in fact, the Ohio Casino Control Commission notified a Penn subsidiary that Barstool faces a fine of up to $250,000 for allegedly targeting underage bettors at the University of Toledo.
“You’re gonna have a Barstool’s-branded sports bar on the premises, according to the proposition that you guys are putting forward,” Eileen O’Brien, a member of the Gaming Commission, said at the earlier hearing, according to WGBH. “And I’m concerned about some of the historical marketing associated with Barstool.”
Also drawing concerns is the personal behavior of Barstool founder, David Portnoy, after a lengthy investigative report by the New York Times. The Times report spelled out repeated racist and misogynist rhetoric by Portnoy.
Examples: Portnoy often uses the N-word as a joke and that while he does not “condone rape … if you’re a size 6 and you’re wearing skinny jeans, you kind of deserved to be raped, right?”
Gambling debts forced Portnoy himself to file for bankruptcy in 2004, at age 26.
At Tuesday’s hearing, Penn must explain to the Gaming Commission how it will build a wall at Plainridge’s proposed sports betting venue between Portnoy’s personal behavior and his alleged promotion of heavy gambling.
Steps appear to have been taken in that direction, so much so that Gaming Commission Chairwoman Cathy Judd-Stein called Penn’s presentation earlier this month on responsible gaming “excellent.” The commission’s only concern, she said, was the association with Barstool.
The Gaming Commission’s job under state law is to vet the “suitability” of license applicants based on their character and integrity. Penn’s partnership with Barstool certainly needs to be fully scrutinized.
If the Gaming Commission finds Barstool an unsuitable partner, Penn might find itself facing a difficult decision: Abandon the sports betting license at Plainridge or get rid of Barstool.
That’s why Plainridge has a lot at stake this week. | 2022-12-20T06:01:48Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Our View: Plainridge's integrity faces a test | Opinion | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/our-view-plainridges-integrity-faces-a-test/article_1a1ba926-b5dc-5954-b1b4-ac12d29e9bdd.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/our-view-plainridges-integrity-faces-a-test/article_1a1ba926-b5dc-5954-b1b4-ac12d29e9bdd.html |
Foxboro High vs Stoughton high boys hockey at Foxboro Sports Center, Monday, Dec. 19. DETAIL: Stoughton’s Ben Shirey, left and Foxboro’s Henry Diamond, right.
Foxboro High’s Henry Diamond (23) and Ryan Wood (9) sandwich Stoughton/Brockton’s Colby Strunk (2) along the boards as they go for the puck Monday at Foxboro Sports Center. See story, photo/Page B1.
Foxboro (2-1) plays again on Wednesday against Blue Hills before the Warriors take a break until mid-January.
North Attleboro 6, Mansfield 1
ATTLEBORO -- North Attleboro blew out Mansfield in a 6-1 final at New England Sports Village.
Scoring the lone goal of the game for the Hornets was Thomas Gormley at 5:55 in the second period. The score, at the time, cut the deficit for the Hornets down to 4-1.
North Attleboro had goals from five different scorers. Scoring the opening goal at 6:11 in the first period was Mark Ayvazyan, with Joe Quinn scoring shortly after at 3:42 to make it 2-0.
Ayvazyan added his second goal of the game early into the second period, scoring at 14:46 to make it 3-0 Rocketeers. Gavin Arabian scored at 8:06, Brody Gaulin scored at 2:56 and Troy Carlisle netted the final goal of the game with1:49 to go in the second period.
North moves to 1-1 and plays Norton on Friday. Mansfield (0-1) comes back on Wednesday to play Warwick Vets (RI). | 2022-12-20T06:01:54Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | H.S. BOYS HOCKEY: Foxboro posts shutout win over Stoughton/Brockton | Local Sports | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-boys-hockey-foxboro-posts-shutout-win-over-stoughton-brockton/article_5e7cea07-279b-5384-80ee-0687eadc5918.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-boys-hockey-foxboro-posts-shutout-win-over-stoughton-brockton/article_5e7cea07-279b-5384-80ee-0687eadc5918.html |
School vacation classes offered in North
NORTH ATTLEBORO -- The Community Center of North Attleboro is offering school vacation classes and activities Dec. 27 to 30 in the Grace Church Annex, 104 North Washington St.
Among the offerings are numerous art classes for kids ages 6 and up and Rick Morin’s Rhythm Room Bucket Boot Camp.
For more information and registration: https://www.communitycenterna.org/classdescriptions and follow on FaceBook to get updates: https://www.facebook.com/CommunityCenterofNorthAttleboro/.
Northattleboro | 2022-12-20T22:42:45Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Briefs | Communities | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/communities/briefs/article_f47f5b03-c87e-5bbb-83ef-8b180704afd0.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/communities/briefs/article_f47f5b03-c87e-5bbb-83ef-8b180704afd0.html |
‘School Talk’ lists shows for January
“School Talk,” a public affairs education show hosted by Norton resident Nadjia Varney, has listed the following schedule for January.
Jan. 1: “Education in the Juvenile Justice System” with Commissioner Peter Forbes, Massachusetts Youth Services.
Jan. 8: “Higher Education in Changing Times” with Dr. Frederick Clark, President, Bridgewater State University.
Jan. 15: “Dual Language Education” with Robert Prignano & Kimberly Gibeau, teachers at Leviton Public Dual Language Elementary School, Providence, Rhode Island.
Jan. 22: “Fatal Flaws of Tougher Standards” with Alfie Kohn, author, lecturer.
Jan. 29: “Teaching Reading to English Language Learners” with Nancy Cloud, professor, Rhode Island College, Member National Advisory Group, Center of Applied Linguistics.
“School Talk” airs at 10 a.m. Sundays on RI PBS WSBE at 10 a.m. and at 3:30 p.m. on WSBEL. It is also available on YouTube. Selected shows are also available at www.schooltalk.tv.
Robert Prignano
Nancy Cloud
Kimberly Gibeau
Alfie Kohn | 2022-12-20T22:42:51Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | ‘School Talk’ lists shows for January | Communities | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/communities/school-talk-lists-shows-for-january/article_b1ebbfa5-5834-5140-bc0f-f0a233b04989.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/communities/school-talk-lists-shows-for-january/article_b1ebbfa5-5834-5140-bc0f-f0a233b04989.html |
North Attleboro police get new, upgraded Tasers
Officer Kristine Crosman, wearing a special protective suit, gets shot with Taser darts during a recent training session.
Officer Kristine Crosman wears a special protective suit during a recent training session on the use of new Tasers.
NORTH ATTLEBORO -- Local police will be carrying new Tasers that officials say are safer for officers and come at no additional cost to taxpayers.
Officers are currently training on how to use the new, upgraded electronic stun guns.
Capt. Jason Roy said the police department purchased the newer non-lethal weapons because the current Tasers are becoming obsolete and the contract with Axon, the manufacturer, is ending.
The devices fire electronic probes or can be held against a suspect’s body to incapacitate them so they can be arrested. They have been used by police departments around the area and state for years.
The new Tasers have non-conductive probe wires, Roy said, which will greatly reduce the possibility of officers getting shocked while handcuffing a suspect.
The company says on its website that the new spiral darts the Tasers fire fly straighter and faster and are more effective against a suspect wearing loose clothing.
The new, three-year contract totals $65,000 but the upgraded devices have improved technology and capability that will save about $3,000 a year, Roy said.
Information which police are required to document when they use the Tasers will be sent to a cloud storage-cased system that will be integrated with the system police will use when officers start wearing body-worn cameras, Roy said.
The department last month was awarded a $67,950 state grant to purchase body-worn cameras.
The newer Tasers come with rechargeable batteries, docking stations and software updates. The cloud compatibility with the body cameras will reduce the time officers need complying with documentation requirements, Roy said.
The less time officers need to file reports required on the use of the devices means they will be able to spend more time on the road.
Officers are being trained on how to use the new weapons by Sgt. Robert Curran, the police department’s Taser instructor.
The training includes practicing several de-escalation and Taser deployment scenarios, including using an officer wearing a special suit that allows for a safe, realistic training environment, Roy said.
Electronic Probes
Non-lethal Weapon | 2022-12-20T22:42:57Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | North Attleboro police get new, upgraded Tasers | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/north-attleboro-police-get-new-upgraded-tasers/article_75ba7b05-c4b0-57b5-a7b8-ed2a2f46e5ce.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/north-attleboro-police-get-new-upgraded-tasers/article_75ba7b05-c4b0-57b5-a7b8-ed2a2f46e5ce.html |
Attleboro Family Bodyworks was the site of a prostitution raid last in October 2020.
DAVID LINTON/
Yajing Li appears in Attleboro District Court in October 2020.
ATTLEBORO — A former North Attleboro woman arrested in a prostitution raid at a South Attleboro massage therapy business two years ago was placed on pre-trial probation for one year on Monday.
Yajing Li, 54, who now lives in Flushing, N.Y., had denied the charges following her arraignment in Attleboro District Court after her arrest on Oct. 16, 2020.
If she avoids any more trouble with the law, the case will be dismissed.
Police say she was the manager of the now defunct Attleboro Family Bodyworks on Route 1 in South Attleboro, which was busted by Attleboro police and a federal agent following an undercover prostitution investigation.
Two other women at the business at the time were not arrested. Police said in a report that there were indications that they lived at the business and ate their meals there. The business closed after the raid.
Li had been facing charges of deriving support from prostitution, which has a penalty of five years in prison, and keeping a house of prostitution.
The business was owned and operated by Pressure Point, a limited liability corporation that dissolved after the raid, according to the Massachusetts Secretary of State’s office.
Michael Costello, a former Rehoboth select board member, was a resident agent and manger for Pressure Point. He was never charged or accused of wrongdoing and no evidence surfaced that linked him to the alleged illegal activities at the business.
Former Rehoboth official may be called to testify against woman charged in prostitution raid
ATTLEBORO — The former Rehoboth highway superintendent fired over allegations of sexual harassment may be a witness against a woman busted in …
North Attleboro woman denies prostitution charges following raid at Attleboro massage parlor
Attleboro massage parlor shut down, manager faces prostitution charges
Pretrial Porbation
Limited Liability | 2022-12-21T01:45:34Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Ex-North Attleboro woman arrested in prostitution bust in Attleboro gets pretrial probation | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/ex-north-attleboro-woman-arrested-in-prostitution-bust-in-attleboro-gets-pretrial-probation/article_729da8a4-baac-5b33-a4c2-65ea52813dbd.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/ex-north-attleboro-woman-arrested-in-prostitution-bust-in-attleboro-gets-pretrial-probation/article_729da8a4-baac-5b33-a4c2-65ea52813dbd.html |
Settlement reached in civil rights lawsuit against Attleboro police and city
U.S. District Court in Boston.
ATTLEBORO -- A $300,000 federal civil rights lawsuit filed by a man who alleged he was shoved into a cement wall at the police station and assaulted by officers in 2019 "solely because he was Black" has been settled.
The terms of the settlement between Denzell Singleton, 30, of Boston, and the city were not detailed in court documents filed Monday in U.S. District Court in Boston.
Judge Nathaniel Gorton dismissed the lawsuit without costs and without prejudice as a result of the settlement, which came after mediation talks. The case could be reopened within 30 days if the settlement is not consummated, according to court records.
Boston lawyer, John J. Cloherty III, who represented the city, Police Chief Kyle Heagney and four police officers, did not immediately return telephone calls and emails from The Sun Chronicle for comment.
Heagney referred any comment on the case to Cloherty.
Singleton’s lawyer, James Caramanica of Attleboro, also did not immediately return a phone call.
On Feb. 17, 2019, Singleton was arrested on charges of lewd conduct, being disorderly and assault and battery on a police officer. He claimed he was assaulted by the officers as he was being brought to the booking room.
He pleaded guilty in Attleboro District Court to the lewd conduct and disorderly charges and was sentenced to the six months he spent in jail awaiting trial.
After a two-day trial featuring a 15 ½-minute video of the incident captured on cameras inside the police station, Singleton was acquitted of assaulting Officer Luke Harrington.
In a police report, Harrington said Singleton was trying to instigate a confrontation and lunged forward before intentionally shifting his weight and shoulder back into his chest.
In addition to Heagney and Harrington, the other officers named in the lawsuit were Sgts. Dennis Fleming, Jessica Maskell and Jason Stevens.
In his lawsuit, Singleton claimed he was assaulted “solely because he is Black” and that he suffered physical and emotional distress from the incident.
But in a reply to the claims, a lawyer representing the city and the police wrote the officers denied any wrongdoing and that the force used was reasonable.
Attleboro Police video
Attleboro Police
Boston man suing Attleboro police found innocent of assaulting officer
ATTLEBORO — An Attleboro District Court jury has found a Black man innocent of assaulting a city police officer, one of four he is suing for a…
Attleboro police deny beating Black man at police station after arrest, lawyer says
Boston man claims Attleboro police beat him because he is Black; sues for $300,000
Civl Rights Lawsuit | 2022-12-21T01:45:40Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Settlement reached in civil rights lawsuit against Attleboro police and city | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/settlement-reached-in-civil-rights-lawsuit-against-attleboro-police-and-city/article_a3e607ee-1f11-5ba3-8fad-c904b1f1f5bb.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/settlement-reached-in-civil-rights-lawsuit-against-attleboro-police-and-city/article_a3e607ee-1f11-5ba3-8fad-c904b1f1f5bb.html |
State gives Plainridge in Plainville conditional approval for temporary sports betting license
A customer tries her luck at Plainridge Park Casino in Plainville.
PLAINVILLE -- Plainridge Park Casino won conditional approval Tuesday for a temporary sports betting license, but will have to meet certain conditions.
Commissioners voted unanimously late in the afternoon that the state’s lone slots-only casino was “preliminarily suitable” for a temporary retail sports wagering license. The vote came after lengthy debate and a presentation by officials of Penn Entertainment, Plainridge's parent company.
Commissioners will require that Plalinridge agree that no one under 21 be allowed in any live Barstool College Football Show events at the casino and that Plainridge cooperate with the commission’s Investigations and Enforcement Bureau, which will conduct a probe of Barstool Sports in connection with Plainridge’s brand.
Penn Entertainment''s connection with Barstool Sports had given the commissioners pause when they considered Plainridge's application for a sports betting license two weeks ago.
At the earlier hearing, Plainville Select Board Vice Chair Jeff Johnson said the town has an “outstanding” partnership with Plainridge and supported its application for a sports betting license, according to media reports.
However, members of the commission expressed concerns about Penn Entertainment’s relationship with Barstool Sports.
Penn is reportedly planning to buy Barstool for $387 million early next year. Barstool, which advertises itself as a blog and website on sports and popular culture, was founded by Milton resident David Portnoy nearly 10 years ago.
A story last month by The New York Times on Barstool and Portnoy highlighted his personal gambling issues.
Plainridge, according to a press release from the commission issued Tuesday evening, “is now eligible to request a temporary license to conduct sports wagering while a full suitability review is undertaken by the MGC.”
Once that license is granted, Plainridge will have to obtain an operations certificate and meet additional conditions before it can accept wagers on approved sporting events.
Consideration of a digital wagering permit for Plainridge was postponed Tuesday due to the time.
On Monday the commission approved sports betting at MGM Springfield with a preliminary finding of suitability for a digital license tethered to the Western Massachusetts casino.
Encore Boston Harbor and WynnBET received similar approvals from the commission Friday.
The commission has set a goal to launch retail sports wagering in late January of next year and online/mobile sports wagering in March.
A representative of Penn Entertainment could not be reached for comment after business hours on Tuesday night. | 2022-12-21T01:45:46Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | State gives Plainridge in Plainville conditional approval for temporary sports betting license | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/state-gives-plainridge-in-plainville-conditional-approval-for-temporary-sports-betting-license/article_db9be674-802b-528f-bd06-d01c41882f1d.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/state-gives-plainridge-in-plainville-conditional-approval-for-temporary-sports-betting-license/article_db9be674-802b-528f-bd06-d01c41882f1d.html |
Attleboro area ushers in winter after a fluctuating fall
Two men and a dog take a walk Oct. 18 on Metcalf Road in North Attleboro.
You either hate it or love it, but winter officially arrives Wednesday with snow shovels, boots and ice scrapers taking the place of rakes, windbreakers and sneakers.
Autumn was more like spring this year, with unusually varied weather.
A lot of the fall was unseasonably warm, but winter-like weather abruptly appeared for several days around mid-November after record high temperatures in the 70s.
It was also rainy this autumn after an extremely dry summer had plunged the region into a months-long drought.
The drought status steadily improved across Massachusetts, and state water officials by November declared the Southeast region to be out of the drought, with normal water levels.
The precipitation swiftly turned to snow in early December as a somewhat surprise first storm of the season slowed morning commuters and delayed the opening of at least one local school system.
There were the usual slew of accidents and enough snow to shovel and plow as from 2 to 4 inches was recorded in the area. The Attleboro Water Department measured 1 1/2 inches of snow.
In the latter part of November, hundreds of area residents lost electricity during two wind and rainstorms. Foxboro saw the most customers experiencing power failures in the storms, with over 1,000 out during one of them.
In early November, the area largely escaped the heavy rain and wind impact from the remnants of storm Nicole, that lashed Florida as a hurricane/tropical storm before sweeping up the Eastern Seaboard.
Despite warmer than normal weather overall, early October felt like late fall arrived early when the thermometer plunged 10 degrees or more lower than usual.
Here’s a breakdown of the months of fall and weather:
This month so far has been relatively snow-free, with mostly rain when precipitation fell. However, temperatures have been running colder than normal many days.
It was an up-and-down month for temperatures, but overall ended up being one of the warmest Novembers on record. It posted an average high temp of 57, and just four other Novembers in 83 years of record-keeping by the Attleboro Water Department had higher such temperatures. The normal average high is 51.
The highest temperature was 78 during a streak of four consecutive days in the 70s near the start of the month. The 78 degrees broke a record for the date and only three other November days have been warmer. Another daily high record fell five days. Rain was over an inch short of typical.
The month was also warmer than normal, with an average daily high temperature of 65, which compares to a usual 62. The highest temp was 78. The average daily low was 45, 2 degrees above usual. The lowest temp was 31. Rainfall ran 5.34 inches, with 4 1/2 inches the norm. A two-day storm the middle of the month brought nearly 3 inches.
September was a rainier month than usual. A total of 7.72 inches was recorded, well above the normal of roughly 4 inches, and that helped the area start to move out of the drought. | 2022-12-21T04:26:48Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Attleboro area ushers in winter after a fluctuating fall | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/attleboro-area-ushers-in-winter-after-a-fluctuating-fall/article_4366ac5b-d37c-505e-910b-98c2fa05a367.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/attleboro-area-ushers-in-winter-after-a-fluctuating-fall/article_4366ac5b-d37c-505e-910b-98c2fa05a367.html |
H.S. INDOOR TRACK: Feehan, Tri-County squads split their separate meets at Wheaton
NORTON — The Bishop Feehan High and Tri-County Regional Vocational indoor track and field teams both competed at Wheaton College Monday night in a MAC and CCL combined meet.
The Feehan girls defeated Southeastern Regional, winning 67.5-22.5, while the Bishop Feehan boys lost to Southeastern 54-45.
Bishop Feehan’s girls had several first-place finishes. Molly Duignan won the 300 meters (46.29). Megan Chan won the 55 meters (8.07), Val Capablo won the 1,000 meters (3:21.72) and Christia Assi placed first in the two-mile (13:18.28).
Going first and second in the 600 meters was Izzy Graziano (1:44.57) and Gigi Colleran (1:51.40), respectively. The Shamrock girls also won both relays, winning the 200 relay at 2:02.62 and the 400 relay at 4:16.98.
The Shamrock girls also had a sweep in the mile with Lauren Augustyn winning in 5:38.79. Bridget Sutula (6:01.04) was second and Jillian Olson (6:05.76) was third.
Feehan’s boys had wins from Connor McHale in the 55 meters (7.03), Lucas Ribeiro (55 hurdles, 8.49), Sean Callaghan (300, 39.06), Andrew Smith (600, 1:29.86) and Noah Gomes D’Sa (mile, 4:50.68).
Jake Gosselin won the shot put for the Shamrock boys.
Tri-County’s boys defeated West Bridgewater, 59-36, while the girls lost to West Bridgewater 79-18.
Nicholas Lanci won the 55 dash for the Cougars in 7.58. He was also part of the 200 relay team that included Gideon Vazquez, Ian Pollock-Umana and Alex Echeverria, which took first. The Cougars’ boys team also had a first-place finish in the mile, with Marty McCrave at 5:12.
The Cougar girls were led by Audrey Weishaar’s winning time of 6:48 in the mile. She also took second in the 1,000 at 3:57. Evie Brunnenmeyer placed second in the 55 hurdles at 10.82. Ava Cavallaro ran a 55 dash of 8.30, placing third. | 2022-12-21T04:27:00Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | H.S. INDOOR TRACK: Feehan, Tri-County squads split their separate meets at Wheaton | Local Sports | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-indoor-track-feehan-tri-county-squads-split-their-separate-meets-at-wheaton/article_9d377ffc-7943-54f1-a3ca-adba537b046b.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-indoor-track-feehan-tri-county-squads-split-their-separate-meets-at-wheaton/article_9d377ffc-7943-54f1-a3ca-adba537b046b.html |
Along the Way: Caroling at the Foxboro library
A crowd gathers on the Foxboro Common along with the FHS Holiday Band for last year’s “Caroling on the Common” event. This year, the annual event will take place indoors at the Boyden Library.
Norton library to host blood drive
A community blood drive will be held from noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 27, in the Community Room of the Norton Public Library, 68 East Main St. Donations are especially needed in this season when unpredictable winter weather and seasonal illness frequently lead to fewer donations, organizers say. Visit nortonlibrary.org or call 1-800-733-2767 to schedule an appointment. For more information on donating blood, including how to prepare for an appointment, visit redcrossblood.org.
Stay safe during the holidays
The North Attleboro Fire Department recently released a number of tips for area residents to safely enjoy the holidays. While holiday decorations enhance the season, they are potential fire hazards. According to the National Fire Prevention Association, Christmas trees caused an average of 160 home fires per year from 2015-2019. Other holiday decorations caused an average of 790 home fires per year. Residents can reduce the risk of fires from Christmas trees by choosing one with fresh, green needles, watering it daily, ensuring their string lights are intended for indoor use, disposing of dry trees after the holiday, and keeping trees at least 3 feet away from a heat source. Also, trees should never be decorated with lit candles, and residents should look for flame-resistant decorations. For more info, go to nfpa.org. | 2022-12-21T06:54:34Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Along the Way: Caroling at the Foxboro library | Communities | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/communities/along-the-way-caroling-at-the-foxboro-library/article_d4b269e4-4745-5fb5-86c0-024bac0c11e5.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/communities/along-the-way-caroling-at-the-foxboro-library/article_d4b269e4-4745-5fb5-86c0-024bac0c11e5.html |
Thank you North Attleboro for your support of Christmas is For Kids
On behalf of the board of directors and by extension, the hundreds of children that will benefit through Christmas is For Kids, we would like to send our most heartfelt thanks to Michael Borg, North Attleboro town manager and Tony Morabito, North Attleboro assistant town manager, for choosing to work with us on the inaugural Leftover Turkey Trot 5k last weekend.
This was an idea that came together from start to finish in a matter of a few weeks. The enthusiastic work that everyone put into the event so that it ran smoothly, created an atmosphere so that over 400 runners plus the spectators had lots of fun.
We’d also like to thank Dr. Mark Young for coordinating the race and Lisa Bouchard for leading warm-ups and the folks at Ashworth Awards as well as DJ Nate Adams, and our sponsors: Achin’s Garage, Bristol County Savings Bank, Bristol Wealth Management Group and Elliott Physical Therapy.
We also appreciate North Attleboro police and fire departments and Chief Chris Coleman, along with the local amateur radio club for monitoring the race and making sure the whole event was safe.
The volunteers that morning were outstanding in making sure that every runner had what was needed. Over 200 toys were collected that day thanks to the generosity of the runners and fans.
The Christmas is For Kids elves worked hard matching up those toys to children’s wishlists, all together providing new toys and clothing to about 800 children.
We are incredibly grateful to our community and know that on Christmas morning, children from so many difficult backgrounds and whose stories many times make us stop and wipe away tears, will know that they were not forgotten. That is truly the best gift we can give them.
We’re already looking forward to next year’s run! Thank you, North Attleboro!
Kelly Fox, chairperson | 2022-12-21T06:55:18Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Thank you North Attleboro for your support of Christmas is For Kids | Letters To Editor | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/letters_to_editor/thank-you-north-attleboro-for-your-support-of-christmas-is-for-kids/article_8a3c1994-221f-501b-a6f7-2e02b051bc51.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/letters_to_editor/thank-you-north-attleboro-for-your-support-of-christmas-is-for-kids/article_8a3c1994-221f-501b-a6f7-2e02b051bc51.html |
Why does alcohol get a pass over marijuana?
In response to Donald Hebert’s recent submission deeming marijuana a gateway drug (in agreement with City Councilor Peter Blais). First of all, and most importantly, thank you for your 33 years in law enforcement, I can’t imagine some of the horrific things you’ve seen during that span.
Next, I’d be curious to know how many of those same users were also consuming alcohol prior to moving on to cocaine and other harder drugs. Are we to assume that liquor stores should be admonished to industrial areas as well?
Alcohol can be a highly addictive substance, but is often overlooked as a root cause, even though there are several repeat DUI offenders that consistently put other peoples lives at risk on a daily basis. Why does alcohol get a pass in this discussion? Is it complacency, we’ve just come to accept alcohol as the risk factor it presents?
Tim Eldridge | 2022-12-21T06:55:24Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Why does alcohol get a pass over marijuana? | Letters To Editor | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/letters_to_editor/why-does-alcohol-get-a-pass-over-marijuana/article_b4dee189-5a31-5aac-81ed-4343737583c8.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/letters_to_editor/why-does-alcohol-get-a-pass-over-marijuana/article_b4dee189-5a31-5aac-81ed-4343737583c8.html |
Friars open Big East play with double-OT thriller over Marquette
PROVIDENCE — The “toughness and togetherness” that Providence College men’s basketball coach Ed Cooley adheres to as an imprint for success on the court was put to the test by Top 25 nationally ranked Marquette in the Friars’ Big East home season opener Tuesday night.
“The teams that play inspired, that play connected are usually the teams that win,” Cooley confided after a sold-out AMP watched the Friars hold on for a pulsating 103-98 victory in double overtime.
“Get your team in place, get the continuity going and you’ll be fine,” Cooley said as the Friars made just two field goals over the final 10 minutes of regulation, but were deadlocked with Marquette at 78-all as regulation time expired.
“We owe it to our players to stop talking about last year — we have to be in the moment, our time is now,” Cooley said. “The present and the future is what we’re concerned about.”
Playing their second Big East game in four days, the Friars (10-3, 2-0) were tied with Marquette at 89-all at the end of the first five-minute overtime session.
In the second overtime, Bryce Hopkins (29 points, 23 rebounds) hit two free throws with 1:44 and 58.8 seconds left to put PC in front 100-98.
Ed Croswell (20 points) hit another charity toss with 16.5 seconds to go and Hopkins plucked off the offensive rebound on his miss of a second shot.
Alyn Breed (13 points with 7-for-8 FT shooting) then hit two free throws with 10.6 seconds left.
“I saw a Providence team really grow up,” Cooley said as the Friars outscored Marquette by 23 points at the free throw line (hitting 35 of 49), having a plus-15 margin on the backboard with 18 offensive rebounds which translated to 23 seond chance points.
“That was like a first or second round NCAA game,” Cooley added. “It was a physical effort, we never lost our composure.”
In the first overtime, PC went up 88-870 with Croswell scoring five points, while Hopkins had a steal and a layin for an 88-80 lead with 2:17 to go.
Cumberland native and fifth-year senior Tyler Kolek (29 points on 11-for-15 shooting) then reeled off seven straight points for the Golden Warriors and followed with a drive in the lane with 5.8 seconds to go to knot the score at 89-all.
“At the end of the day, the bottom line is production,’ Cooley said. “We play those who can produce — can you impact the game when you don’t score,” Cooley of playing defense, rebounding and passing. “How are you help us in winning? Those are the things that we as a staff are going to have to monitor from game to game.”
PC had leads of nine (21-12) and 11 (34-23) points during the first half, having merely a one-point (39-38) margin at the break. Marquette banged the boards for 30 points in the paint, while committing just three turnovers over the first 20 minutes.
“We weren’t subbing, we had too much chemistry on the floor,” Cooley said of his players’ time on the floor in the two overtimes. “The quality of the Big East was on display.”
The Friars shot 48 percent (15-for-31) from the floor and had a slight 9-17 rebounding edge. PC never trailed by more than two points (twice), while the Golden Eagles committed just three turnovers.
Hopkins (nine first half rebounds) scored five points, including a put back of his own missed free throw during a 10-0 run which gave PC its nine point lead. Four points by Devin Cater, two off of a steal, sparked an 8-0 PC surge which created its largest lead at 11 points with just over five minutes left until the stop.
“It’s a one game mentality – we have to draw on our strengths. What is Providence College really good at, what can we exploit? This is what we play for – it’s the Big East.
“We as coaches see what the potential of these kids can be.
NOTES: Bryce Hopkins, the sophomore transfer from Kentucky, already has five “double-doubles” on the season; the Friars have nine thus far; PC had 14 last season, nine by Noah Horchler … Senior guard Jared Bynum has been in a shooting slump, just .171 percent from 3-point range (7-for-41), but he has a strong assist (59) to turnover (19) ratio … PC is just 11-19 against Marquette since the Golden Eagles joined the Big East in ’05-’06, 9-6 at home … PC is off until a Dec. 29 game at Butler …The Friars are 8-0 at home this season … PC is second in the Big East in free -throw attempts (273) and free-throws made (200) … PC honored a trio of late former Friars, all-time great guard Johnny Egan (1959-61), an 11-season NBA player and Houston Rockets coach; Louis Orr, the former Syracuse great and one-time assistant coach (1994-96) under Pete Gillen; and Rob Sanders (’03-’05) who tragically died in a car accident in New London … Marquette has some marquee wins over No. 6 Baylor (by 26) and Creighton (by 11), ranking No. 3 in the Big East in scoring (81.1) and No. 2 in shooting (.491) … Marquette sophomore guard Kam Jones has reached double scoring figures in 11 of 13 games … Friar senior center Ed Croswell ranks No. 5 in shooting (at .630) and has nine double figure scoring games. | 2022-12-21T06:55:36Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Friars open Big East play with double-OT thriller over Marquette | Local Sports | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/friars-open-big-east-play-with-double-ot-thriller-over-marquette/article_9a48b375-f177-5831-b41b-b1ccbaa88e43.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/friars-open-big-east-play-with-double-ot-thriller-over-marquette/article_9a48b375-f177-5831-b41b-b1ccbaa88e43.html |
H.S. BOYS BASKETBALL: Big third quarter shoots King Philip past Oliver Ames
King Philip Regional High's Will Laplante (5) drives around an Oliver Ames High defender toward the basket Tuesday night in Wrentham.
TYLER HETU/ THE SUN CHRONICLE
King Philip Regional High guard Tommy Martorano puts up a shot as he is heavily contested at the basket by Oliver Ames High guard Chris Elias Tuesday night in Wrentham.
King Philip's Collin Peck pulls up for a corner 3-point attempt Tuesday night.
King Philip's Tommy Martorano (2, left) pulls up for a mid-range jumper with Oliver Ames defender Cole Craffey closing in to defend.
WRENTHAM — The King Philip Regional High boys basketball team broke open a tight game at the half with seven 3-pointers in the third quarter en route to a 63-50 Hockomock League win over Oliver Ames High Tuesday night.
The Warriors rallied from a 25-23 halftime deficit with their seven treys in the third quarter, scoring all of them in under six minutes, to enter the fourth quarter with a comfortable 56-43 lead.
Despite wavering a bit as the Tigers went on a 10-0 run, the Warriors maintained the lead for a “good league win,” per KP head coach Dave Destefano.
“It started with our defense, we got a few easy steals to start the third and it led to some baskets, which gained some confidence,” Destefano said of the third quarter where the Warriors outscored the Tigers 31-12. “I think we have a good shooting team. If they shoot with confidence, they can score seven threes in a quarter. They challenged themselves at halftime that they weren’t going to lose this game.”
Both sides matched up well throughout the first half. King Philip opened the game with a quick 5-0 lead, but Oliver Ames answered to take the lead in the first quarter, Both sides traded baskets, with KP’s biggest lead in the half being six points at 20-14.
The Tigers showed resiliency against each deficit, and battled back in the final minute to take their two-point halftime lead.
“Any game in this league is going to be tough, and OA is tough. Physical, that’s their mentality,” Destefano said. “I thought we came out strong at first, then got too complacent with no energy and decided to walk through plays.”
The Warriors’ fourth quarter lapse is one that Destefano knows will be keyed in on against the Warriors in their next game. The Warriors moved the ball around the arc frequently against Oliver Ames’ zone defense, as if they had no open lane, and nearly went scoreless for the final two minutes of the game before late free throws from Tommy Mortorano.
“It’s going to be talked about a lot tomorrow, especially with our game against Stoughton on Friday,” Destefano said. “They’ll get the film and I expect they play the zone (defense) against us. We’ve just got to get more aggressive, more confident that we can get into the gaps and get the open shots. Too complacent, too much going nowhere ball movement.
“We can get there, we’ve just got to work on it,” Destefano said.
Leading King Philip in scoring was Will Laplante, who scored 13 of his 21 points in the third quarter. Mortorano added 14 points and Collin Peck scored nine. Cole Craffey had 24 points for Oliver Ames, a game-high.
The Warriors (1-1) visit Stoughton on Friday. | 2022-12-21T06:55:42Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | H.S. BOYS BASKETBALL: Big third quarter shoots King Philip past Oliver Ames | Local Sports | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-boys-basketball-big-third-quarter-shoots-king-philip-past-oliver-ames/article_af616f30-f4bb-559a-8b67-aeec4badfd49.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-boys-basketball-big-third-quarter-shoots-king-philip-past-oliver-ames/article_af616f30-f4bb-559a-8b67-aeec4badfd49.html |
The Hockomock Stars’ and Foxboro High’s own Mya Waryas, front, skates away from Dennis-Yarmouth High’s Hannah O’Dowd during last Wednesday’s game at Foxboro Sports Center
MARK STOCKWELL / FOR FOXBORO REPORTER
Local girls lace up for Hockomock Stars varsity hockey team
High school girls’ hockey is getting a boost in the area.
A co-op team with players from Mansfield, Foxboro and Oliver Ames has expanded to include players from seven other high schools.
With the Stars expanding the co-op, head coach Jamie Mullen said there’s a lot of good to come out of the additions, which makes for an exciting future.
“Seven schools, three-quarters of the team, they’re brand-new,” Mullen said. “They’re jelling well so far. Off the ice you can see the bonds forming, and that’s the exciting part. There’s a lot of good to come.”
Foxboro senior Mya Waryas has become a top player for the Warriors’ field hockey and lacrosse teams, and finished in the top five in scoring for both sports in previous seasons. Now she will be looking to carry that success over to the ice with the Hockomock Stars. With a lot of last year’s offense having graduated, Waryas will have an increased role for the team. She had three goals and two assists last season and will be integral to the Stars’ offense this year.
Foxboro junior Macy Quinn is back to anchor the blue line for the Stars.
Mullen said the newcomers bring a range of experience to the team, as well.
Despite not getting off to a strong start, Mullen said the team’s improvement is shown every day. Minutes are dished out each day to provide opportunities to grow, and each player complements one another.
The Stars sat at 0-3 entering Wednesday’s game against KP, but have plenty of season left to show their potential.
Dennis-Yarmouth 9, Hockomock Stars 2
FOXBORO — The Dennis-Yarmouth Regional High girls hockey team rolled over the Hockomock Stars last Wednesday night, winning 9-2 at Foxboro Sports Complex.
Goals from the Stars (0-3) were by Mya Waryas and Ava Adams, both in the third period. The Stars next played Wednesday against KP at Foxboro Sports Center.
Mya Waryas | 2022-12-21T23:40:32Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Local girls lace up for Hockomock Stars varsity hockey team | Sports | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/foxboro_reporter/sports/local-girls-lace-up-for-hockomock-stars-varsity-hockey-team/article_b35779a0-f8ae-5b0f-9bb0-db6ced0446d1.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/foxboro_reporter/sports/local-girls-lace-up-for-hockomock-stars-varsity-hockey-team/article_b35779a0-f8ae-5b0f-9bb0-db6ced0446d1.html |
Three injured in I-295 North crash involving dump truck and two other vehicles
ATTLEBORO -- A dump truck rolled over in a crash on Interstate 295 North Wednesday afternoon, injuring three people and delaying traffic.
The crash was reported about 2 p.m. just before to the Interstate 95 North exit.
It involved the dump truck, a box truck and an SUV, according to state police and fire officials.
The driver of the dump truck and two occupants in the SUV were taken by ambulances to Rhode Island Hospital in Providence, but the injuries were not serious, according to Deputy Fire Chief Dennis Perkins.
Between 50 and 75 gallons of diesel fuel spilled from a saddle tank on the dump truck but were contained fairly quickly by firefighters using an absorbent, Perkins said.
No storm drains were affected.
The dump truck rolled on its side across all the travel lanes of the highway and only the breakdown lane was open to allow traffic through, officials said.
North Attleboro firefighters assisted Attleboro fire officials at the scene.
Motorists were urged to avoid the area and told to expect delays.
The cause of the crash is under investigation by state police. | 2022-12-21T23:40:38Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Three injured in I-295 North crash involving dump truck and two other vehicles | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/three-injured-in-i-295-north-crash-involving-dump-truck-and-two-other-vehicles/article_ace970ab-9aa0-5be1-8213-8e59cf32aeb8.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/three-injured-in-i-295-north-crash-involving-dump-truck-and-two-other-vehicles/article_ace970ab-9aa0-5be1-8213-8e59cf32aeb8.html |
Strong winds and heavy rain expected in Attleboro area, followed by a frigid holiday weekend
Crews de-ice a Southwest Airlines plane before takeoff Wednesday in Omaha, Neb. Brutally cold weather affecting the Midwest is expected to make its way to New England this weekend.
An intense rain and windstorm is expected to sweep into the area starting Thursday night followed by the coldest weather since last winter over the holiday weekend.
Up to 3 inches of rain and winds over 50 mph are forecast, with the worst of it predicted for Friday. There could be some snow showers as well.
Power failures and some flooding are anticipated, and the timing of the storm is bad for holiday parties, shopping and traveling. Also, residents might want to better secure outdoor holiday decorations.
Area highway and DPW crews have been busy gearing up for the storm.
"In preparation for the upcoming weather the Highway Department employees have been cleaning catch basin covers and opening water ways," Rehoboth Highway Superintendent Kevin Chace said in an email. "Our chainsaws are fueled up and ready to go! We have heavy equipment ready if any large trees come down. Our Forestry Department takes care of most of the trees that come down. But the Highway Department is always ready to assist them."
Temperatures could approach 60 degrees on Friday, but after the rain clears out the temperature is forecast to plunge by as much as 40 degrees late Friday night into Saturday, with the threat of a flash freeze.
The coldest weather of season is set to arrive Saturday and Sunday, with daytime temps in the 20s and lows at night in the teens. Winds on Saturday night could make it feel like it's in the single digits, meteorologists said.
Monday is expected to top off around freezing but bottom out in the mid-teens at night.
The weather system arriving late Thursday is from the Arctic and is bringing blizzard-like conditions to the Midwest.
Along the New England coast, a high tide early Friday could lead to significant coastal erosion and flooding, meteorologists warn. | 2022-12-22T01:46:11Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Strong winds and heavy rain expected in Attleboro area, followed by a frigid holiday weekend | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/strong-winds-and-heavy-rain-expected-in-attleboro-area-followed-by-a-frigid-holiday-weekend/article_55d3138e-05ff-57b5-b725-885792f79cb0.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/strong-winds-and-heavy-rain-expected-in-attleboro-area-followed-by-a-frigid-holiday-weekend/article_55d3138e-05ff-57b5-b725-885792f79cb0.html |
City council puts off decision on expanding pot shop zones in Attleboro
Nova Farms in the Attleboro Industrial Park has been open since May 2020. Blair Fish, the chief operating officer for the company, says marijuana businesses should be allowed to locate in areas zoned for business along major highways.
ATTLEBORO — The debate on whether retail marijuana shops should be allowed in business zones will resume at a public hearing on Jan. 17.
A vote on a proposal to allow the pot shops in planned highway business and general business zones was stopped last week by a charter objection from City Councilor Richard Conti.
As a result it was the first item taken up by the council on Tuesday, which was the deadline for a vote.
However, no vote was taken and the matter was referred back to the ordinance committee chaired by Cathleen DeSimone.
So now the process will begin again.
Previously, the planning board voted 5-1 in favor of the change.
Currently, marijuana businesses of any kind are allowed only in industrial zones.
At a public hearing in September marijuana retailers argued that they should be allowed in planned highway business and general business zones.
Blair Fish, the chief operating officer of Nova Farms in the Attleboro Industrial Park, said there have been no problems other than traffic at the retail business and pushed for the ordinance change.
“They (pot shops) are not any different than a liquor store or a Chipotle,” he said. “People come in and buy their product and leave.”
Others argued that the pot shops should remain in the industrial zones.
Former City Council President Frank Cook spoke out against the proposal.
“I believe that these changes, if approved, will have a severe negative impact on the city and its residents,” he said. “Further, these proposals are contrary to the numerous efforts currently underway to make Attleboro a better city.”
Pot Shop
Industrial Zones | 2022-12-22T03:48:05Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | City council puts off decision on expanding pot shop zones in Attleboro | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/city-council-puts-off-decision-on-expanding-pot-shop-zones-in-attleboro/article_77a176d9-6382-5a7f-930c-794bcf1748f2.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/city-council-puts-off-decision-on-expanding-pot-shop-zones-in-attleboro/article_77a176d9-6382-5a7f-930c-794bcf1748f2.html |
Verizon sign.
Selectmen sign off on new cable TV contract with Verizon
A five-year contract renewal granted to Verizon cable this week capped a lengthy, yet cordial negotiation process, town officials said Tuesday night.
The new cable TV pact, unanimously approved and inked by selectmen, was based on a wish list that included improvements in capital funding, equipment and technology, according to Mark Stopa, chairman of the town’s cable television advisory committee.
A local lawyer, Stopa told selectmen the advisory panel’s objectives had been largely satisfied.
“We didn’t get everything we wanted, but we got what we needed,” he said. “I think what we negotiated and presented to you is appropriate.”
These items included partial high definition and stereo capabilities, securing payments of $30,500 annually for capital funding, assorted equipment upgrades and closed captioning.
Stopa acknowledged that the failure to obtain a digital programming guide for cable access features had been a “point of frustration,” but understandable from a technical perspective.
“Their system cannot support it,” he said. “The technology is just not there yet.”
Also participating remotely in Tuesday night’s meeting was Paul Trane from the Boston law firm Kerbey Harrington Pinkard LLP, which had been retained by Verizon as outside counsel.
Trane said his client was satisfied with the outcome and looking forward to servicing its local cable customers for another five years.
“As Mark noted, it is a negotiation with a lot of give and take,” Trane said of the renewal process. “But I think both sides feel good about it — I know Verizon does.”
Verizon Fios is one of two cable/internet providers operating in Foxboro. The other, Comcast Xfinity, obtained a 10-year contract renewal in February 2020.
Under the terms of both contracts, each provider pays the equivalent of 4.75 percent of gross revenues to fund Foxboro’s cable access corporation. | 2022-12-22T05:41:30Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Selectmen sign off on new cable TV contract with Verizon | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/foxboro_reporter/news/local_news/selectmen-sign-off-on-new-cable-tv-contract-with-verizon/article_f842027d-edbf-589d-9617-80a759d69cd8.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/foxboro_reporter/news/local_news/selectmen-sign-off-on-new-cable-tv-contract-with-verizon/article_f842027d-edbf-589d-9617-80a759d69cd8.html |
Foxboro residents Jim DeVellis, 56, and Lynda Walsh, 61, have been running the Friends of Foxboro Veterans program for 10 years now.
Every year, starting in mid-October, DeVellis and Walsh put together gift packages that are delivered to Foxboro veterans and their families by members of the community around Thanksgiving.
The community helps put together the packages, also. While initially they delivered turkeys to veterans, in recent years the packages have consisted of gift cards, along with squash from local farmer Earl Ferguson, an entry pass for the Thanksgiving Day football game at Foxboro High School and a whoopie pie.
A significant part of the bags also are the thank you cards the veterans receive from Foxboro schoolchildren.
At the time that he and Walsh first put their program together, his three kids were still attending school. Making connections between Foxboro students like his children and veterans — bridging that generational gap — was a major motivator for him, DeVellis said.
Both DeVellis, former town selectman and civil engineer, and Walsh, who works at a printing company, also have personal connections to a veteran. DeVellis’ father was in the service and Walsh’s father fought in World War II.
That connection, along with the gratitude they receive from the veterans they deliver to, motivates the pair.
For more information about veterans’ services in Foxboro, visit foxboroughma.gov/departments/veterans_services.
Jim Devellis
Lynda Walsh
Foxboro High School | 2022-12-22T05:41:42Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | True Santas: Thanking veterans for their service in Foxboro | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/foxboro_reporter/news/local_news/true-santas-thanking-veterans-for-their-service-in-foxboro/article_48094e6f-2e9e-58f1-9804-a30b63b6f9b0.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/foxboro_reporter/news/local_news/true-santas-thanking-veterans-for-their-service-in-foxboro/article_48094e6f-2e9e-58f1-9804-a30b63b6f9b0.html |
Officer Ryan McGrath tends to a deer that became trapped in a soccer net July 14, 2021 McGrath has been recognized by AAA for his efforts to enhance traffic safety on local roadways. .
Foxboro firefighter Cory Shepardson helped save the life of a New Hampshire man on a flight in September.
Two public safety employees lauded for efforts
Just days before the Christmas holiday, two public safety employees were recognized by selectmen this week for their respective efforts that were characterized as above and beyond the call of duty.
The pair included firefighter/paramedic Cory Shepardson, who helped save the life of a Peterborough, N.H., man suffering from a medical emergency on a September 2021 Southwest Airlines flight from Boston to Denver.
Shepardson was traveling to Colorado Springs to visit a firefighters’ memorial with four active and two retired North Attleboro firefighters when they were alerted to a passenger experiencing symptoms consistent with a seizure.
Because the plane was equipped with a defibrillator, Fire Chief Michael Kelleher told selectmen, the rescue professionals immediately began performing CPR until the man’s pulse returned, then monitored him for the remainder of the flight
Since the flight included a planned layover at Midway International Airport in Chicago, the passenger was taken to an area hospital at that time.
“We coordinated with Chicago Fire from the air,” Shepardson recalled. “As soon as we landed, they had an ambulance meet us and take the patient off the plane.”
More recently, Shepardson and the six firefighters from North Attleboro were presented with a group Citation for Meritorious Conduct at the state’s annual Firefighter of the Year Awards, held last month at Mechanics Hall in Worcester.
Perhaps not surprisingly, Shepardson hasn’t been content to rest on his laurels. Earlier this fall, he spent 14 days in Florida with a FEMA team assisting in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian.
“Keeping you busy, saving lives,” selectmen Chairwoman Leah Gibson remarked.
Also at Tuesday night’s meeting, board members congratulated local police officer Ryan McGrath, who has been recognized by AAA for his efforts to enhance traffic safety on local roadways.
McGrath, who during the past year excelled in his duties as a traffic enforcement officer, was named a “traffic safety hero” in AAA’s northeast region, which consists of Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York and Connecticut.
Accompanied by his wife, parents and four children, McGrath accepted the award at town hall Tuesday night following a brief presentation by Police Chief Michael Grace.
According to Grace, AAA accepts nominations for the award based on job performance and other safety considerations in helping reduce motor vehicle injuries by encouraging safe driving through education and enforcement.
“Officer McGrath met and exceeded those standards, which resulted in his being recognized tonight,” Grace said.
Hired in 2017, McGrath obtained his motorcycle certification this past year, primarily to perform traffic enforcement duties.
“Day or night, hot or cold, he was out there on the bike stopping cars and answering calls and driving through neighborhoods,” Grace said, adding that McGrath wrote 331 motor vehicle citations in the past six months — about 17 percent of the entire department total.
Hundreds of other stops resulted in verbal warnings.
Grace said the department has received a significant amount of correspondence praising McGrath’s positive attitude and kind demeanor during calls for service, while assisting disabled motorists and even conducting traffic stops.
Grace said that Foxboro police have emphasized traffic safety, noting that local roadways often serve as a cut-through for motorists seeking to avoid congestion on interstates 95 and 495, as well as on routes 1 and 140.
Police accreditationIn a related matter, Grace took an opportunity to remind selectmen that the Foxboro Police Department this past fall was recognized as fully accredited by the Massachusetts Police Accreditation Commission.
The accreditation process is a voluntary evaluation by the commission which strives to maintain high standards in law enforcement. Among other benefits, accredited departments can often reduce losses in liability claims, the commission says.
Spearheading the accreditation process locally were Deputy Chief Richard Noonan, Executive Assistant Lee McCarthy and sergeants Adam Byrnes and Lucas Drayton, Grace said.
Noonan, who served as team leader during most of the process, said he hoped that every member of the department, as well as all townspeople, would be proud of the honor.
Referring to accreditation as the “epitome of professional policing in Massachusetts,” Noonan said the local department worked hard to prove meticulous compliance with strict standards, internal policies and training guidelines.
“We achieved a high level of policing, but more importantly we do that in our day-to-day operations,” Noonan said.
Meanwhile, Grace said that a plaque which had been presented to the department will be displayed in the lobby of the town public safety building on Chestnut Street.
“I’m tremendously proud of our department and our accreditation team for rising to meet the standards outlined,” he said. “It’s a reflection on how well we operate as an organization and how we deliver police services to the residents and guests of Foxboro.”
Remarking on the distinction, Selectman Dennis Keefe compared the rigorous police accreditation to those conducted in the medical industry.
“I congratulate you, Chief Grace, and your whole department on this achievement because it’s an extreme undertaking and a wonderful result,” Keefe said.
Ryan Mcgrath
Michael Kelleher
Dennis Keefe | 2022-12-22T05:41:48Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Two public safety employees lauded for efforts | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/foxboro_reporter/news/local_news/two-public-safety-employees-lauded-for-efforts/article_5d4445b3-d3e9-5da3-8239-ca296f540300.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/foxboro_reporter/news/local_news/two-public-safety-employees-lauded-for-efforts/article_5d4445b3-d3e9-5da3-8239-ca296f540300.html |
This new town square marker has been prepared for viewing on the north end of the Common as seen from Main Street. The larger presentation has space for the service member’s branch of service and rank.
Fundraiser nearing halfway point
The project to replace the 29 town square markers around Foxboro honoring those who made the supreme sacrifice is off to a great start.
As of Dec. 14, contributions stand at $1,930 out of the $5,000 needed.
Susan and Stephen Burlone of Foxboro donated $1,000 of the necessary funds. Susan Burlone said she looks forward to seeing the markers installed, and hopes that others will also be inspired to donate to the effort.
The first markers for World War I servicemen were erected almost 100 years ago in 1923. Over the years the markers have been painted many times, suffered damage from cars and storms, and generally are looking the worse for wear.
Anyone wishing to contribute can send a check to: Veteran’s Marker Fund Foxboro Historical Commission, 40 South St., Foxboro MA 02035.
Local law firm partners with Lifeworks
Lifeworks, a nonprofit human services provider that supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, has announced that clients in its employment services program partnered with Ballin & Associates, LLC for the fourth straight year to complete its holiday mailing project.
The partnership with the Foxboro-based personal injury law firm creates opportunities for individuals in the Lifeworks program to gain meaningful hands-on work experience.
“Our partnership with Lifeworks has become a holiday tradition,” said Attorney Steven Ballin. “By engaging the Lifeworks Employment Services program, we know the job will be done well, on time and on budget. We’re pleased to be able to provide an opportunity for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to gain real-world work experience.”
The mailing project includes filling envelopes, affixing mailing labels and stamps, and transporting the finished material to the post office.
The Ballin Law project team consists of four workers each day, overseen by a Lifeworks job coach.
Local organizations interested in engaging the supported work services of Lifeworks to meet business demands can contact Rich Donahue for more information at rdonahue@lifeworksarc.org or 508-404-7902.
Caroling at Boyden Library
The Foxboro Jaycees invite town residents to join them for an evening of Christmas caroling starting at 6 p.m., on Thursday. This annual event has traditionally been held the Thursday before Thanksgiving on the Foxboro Common.
Due to inclement weather, this year’s event will take place in the Boyden Library, 10 Bird St.
The Foxboro High School Holiday Band will perform. Songbooks and candy canes will be provided by the Jaycees.
Free movie showings continue at Orpheum
The Marilyn Rodman Performing Arts Center, 1 School St., Foxboro will host free showings of seasonal kids’ favorite “Frozen 2” at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 28.
Tickets are complimentary but required to attend.
They can be reserved online at orpheum.org.
Cradles to Crayons donations sought
Cradles to Crayons donation bins, located in dozens of Massachusetts communities, provide a convenient option to donate gently used children’s clothing and shoes, which can be given a second life and reused by a family in need. Further details on accepted items can be found here, and all locations can be found here. We thought this would be helpful information for the community – would you be able to include this in an upcoming issue or online?
“While some families are wondering what to do with items that have been outgrown or gone unused — other families are desperate for these items, with household budgets stretched extremely tight this winter,” said Aubrey Henderson, Executive Director of Cradles to Crayons Massachusetts. “As a community we can help one another and the environment at the same time,” she added.
Lifeworks Employment Services | 2022-12-22T05:41:55Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Of Note: Progress continues on new fund for veteran's markers | Around Town | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/foxboro_reporter/rail/around_town/of-note-progress-continues-on-new-fund-for-veterans-markers/article_0621efb7-9531-5392-9600-a53955b1cd69.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/foxboro_reporter/rail/around_town/of-note-progress-continues-on-new-fund-for-veterans-markers/article_0621efb7-9531-5392-9600-a53955b1cd69.html |
Thank you Sun Chronicle for presenting all sides
Kudos to The Sun Chronicle for continually presenting opinions on every side of many fences along with plenty of reported local and national news from AP and other worthy media.
We readers get plenty of benefit from reading our local paper that is committed to good journalism.
For example, articles and opinions of the last four days:
Bob Foley discussed “influence” in politics with snide (as with Fox News’s fascist-driven fake news condemnation of Dr. Anthony Fauci’s and his lieutenant the senior Dr. Hugh Auchincloss’s sterling service of many years) information that the senior Auchincloss had contributed $180K via a superpac to Rep. Jake Auchincloss’s (his son) campaign. This information, new to me, brought to mind my search of Rep. Auchincloss’s many press releases for any evidence that he understands the damage to the United States by plutocrats’ under-taxing of wealth since Reagan, which continues to grow inequality and malaise of The People. Thank you Bob, for your arguing!
I suggest that Progressive Democrats need to run a PROGRESSIVE candidate against Rep. Auchincloss who will fairly tax wealth more and begin to restore The People’s purloined savings and spirit.
Letter writer Joseph Cortellini extolled the merit of the many years of worthy service of Drs. Fauci and Auchincloss, skillfully accomplished during decades of plutocratic governing. I agree. He goes on to castigate Foley for poor journalism in his not interviewing Dr. Auchincloss; that is an unreasonable demand on a local contributor.
Alternatively, maybe Rep. Auchincloss will climb off his plutocrat horse and join senators Elizabeth Warren’s and Bernie Sanders’ worthy ideas for reversing the nation’s growing wealth inequality and anger by taxing wealth more. | 2022-12-22T05:42:51Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Thank you Sun Chronicle for presenting all sides | Letters To Editor | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/letters_to_editor/thank-you-sun-chronicle-for-presenting-all-sides/article_c50b596e-1784-5e9f-9654-6b4fb0e1cbd5.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/letters_to_editor/thank-you-sun-chronicle-for-presenting-all-sides/article_c50b596e-1784-5e9f-9654-6b4fb0e1cbd5.html |
H.S. BOYS HOCKEY: Attleboro snaps 27-game skid in win over Tri-County
Attlelboro players celebrate a goal in the 2nd. period against Tri-County on Wednesday, December 21, 2022. Dave DeMelia/Photo
Dave DeMelia/For the sun chronicle Attleboro High players celebrate along the boards after scoring a goal in the second period against Tri-County Regional Vocational Wednesday night at New England Sports Village in Attleboro.
Attleboro High’s Bryan Capone moves the puck down the ice against Tri-County Regional Vocational in the third period Wednesday night at New England Sports Village in Attleboro.
Tri-County Goalie (1) Caleb Drinan makes the stop against Attleboro in the 2nd. period action on Wednesday, December 21, 2022. Dave DeMelia/Photo
ATTLEBORO — It’s a new ice age for the Attleboro High boys hockey team.
The Bombardiers broke out for three goals in the first period en route to a 10-4 romp over Tri-County Regional Vocational Wednesday at New England Sports Village, marking Attleboro’s first hockey win in 27 games, dating back three seasons.
For the Bombardiers, they knew eventually it would end, and made sure to not forget it as whiteboard material this season. For Attleboro head coach Gary Warren, who is in his first season with the program, there was a lot to be happy with from Wednesday night.
“I was happy with the effort, but there’s a lot we still need to get better at,” Warren said. “We’ve got to look at the positives. This team hasn’t tasted a regular season victory in almost three full years. They had one win in (early) 2021. A 27-game skid, some of these kids, a regular season win (is something) they haven’t experienced. I was happy for them, and happy for the team.
“It’s nice to get off the snide and get the win,” he added. “I know they knew about it. We put it on the board. We were going to end it sooner or later.”
Attleboro took charge in the first period on goals by Nick Fernandes, Michael Lachance and Collin Flynn.
The Cougars answered with three goals in the second period from Mike Goddard, Zach Lawrence and Josh Narducci, but were never able to pull even as Attleboro added six goals in the second period.
“It was a bit sloppy at times,” Warren noted. “It was 3-2 before you could blink, and then we came back and extended the lead. We had a good comeback after they cut (the lead) down.
“I’m happy with the effort. Everybody got to tough the ice and contribute, and it’s nice when everybody touches the ice and you come out with a win.”
Warren credited Tri-County’s skaters for their ability, pointing to their results earlier this season.
“Tri-County has some skilled players that can really shoot the puck,” Warren said. “Their games, they’ve won 8-6 and lost 10-6. They’re a pretty good team. I knew they could score.”
Scoring in the second period was Lachance (twice), Jack Moran (twice), Antonio Mancini and Beckett Stone. Jacob Westwater was in net for the Bombardiers to lock up the win, and Tri-County’s Caleb Drinan stopped 24 shots.
“Westwater was solid in net,” Warren said. “He’s only a “rookie” (eighth grader), he’s going to get better.”
Tri-County scored once more off the tape of Jason Kuphal, answering a score from Attleboro’s Nathan Conroy earlier in the period.
Jacob Westwater | 2022-12-22T05:43:10Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | H.S. BOYS HOCKEY: Attleboro snaps 27-game skid in win over Tri-County | Local Sports | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-boys-hockey-attleboro-snaps-27-game-skid-in-win-over-tri-county/article_8584a7e9-147e-50ff-a799-de13fad58799.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-boys-hockey-attleboro-snaps-27-game-skid-in-win-over-tri-county/article_8584a7e9-147e-50ff-a799-de13fad58799.html |
Attleboro Arts Museum's Winter Artist lineup offers refuge, and breakfast
“Making art is always some kind of escape from the external world, but in the 'Refuge' series I was intentionally making paintings for that purpose. I was painting and flooding my brain with color, as a refuge and a salve from the terror and isolation of the pandemic,” Gordon said. | 2022-12-22T20:53:17Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Attleboro Arts Museum's Winter Artist lineup offers refuge, and breakfast | Features | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/features/attleboro-arts-museums-winter-artist-lineup-offers-refuge-and-breakfast/article_9371db07-4f90-57c0-b85f-393efa326779.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/features/attleboro-arts-museums-winter-artist-lineup-offers-refuge-and-breakfast/article_9371db07-4f90-57c0-b85f-393efa326779.html |
Healey endorses public record law for all of state government; Attleboro area lawmakers mixed
The Massachusetts Statehouse
Freedom Trail website
Becca Rausch
Massachusetts is the only state in the nation where the Legislature, the governor’s office and the judiciary all claim to be exempt from public records laws.
But it appears governor-elect Maura Healey is pushing to change that.
In an interview on WGBH’s Boston Public Radio, Healey said she would not claim a public records exemption as governor and she would support removing exemptions the Legislature and judiciary claim they have.
Meanwhile, the executive directors of the Massachusetts Newspaper Publishers Association, the New England Newspaper and Press Association, and the New England First Amendment Coalition wrote a letter to Healey, asking her to file legislation to amend the public records law to make it clear that it applies to the governor’s office.
The groups also asked the incoming governor to appoint a public records officer.
But a couple of local Legislators would not give a straight answer to the question asking if they would support being subjected to public records laws as are local and federal officials.
Two others gave very straight answers.
“It depends on what the rules are,” state Rep. Jim Hawkins, D-Attleboro, said Thursday. “I think the system at the moment is pretty functional.”
He said there are some constituent matters contained in email or other communications that need to be kept confidential.
And Hawkins said he’s not familiar with the public records law.
“It depends on what specific information (the requester) is talking about,” he said.
Hawkins said he tries to be as transparent as possible in everything he does.
“I put as much on social media as I can,” he said.
Meanwhile, Rep. Adam Scanlon, D-North Attleboro, said he and his office generally “try to be as transparent and forthcoming as possible.”
Like Hawkins, he is not sure what the public records law would require of him.
“I’d have to read a particular proposal,” he said. “I don’t like to deal with hypotheticals.”
Meanwhile, state Sen. Becca Rausch, D-Needham said she fully supports the governor and Legislature being subject to the public records law.
“Since my first term in office, I have been a steady and successful champion of transparency on Beacon Hill throughout my tenure in the Senate,” she said in an email. “At the start of this term, I filed legislation (S.2107) to subject both the Governor and the Legislature to the Public Records Law, which I intend to refile next month.
“I am pleased that Governor-elect Healey supports the thrust of my bill and look forward to collaboratively advancing it through the legislative process.”
State Sen. Paul Feeney, D-Foxboro, also supports opening the Legislature to the public records law.
“I believe the more transparency the better,” he said in an email. “ I applaud Governor-elect Healey for her openness toward ensuring that the Executive and Legislative branches be subject to public records law, just like our local boards and councils already are.
“There should be a consistent, reasonable standard across government and I have been outspoken in my support for removing this exemption during my time in the State Senate.”
State Rep. Steve Howitt, R-Seekonk, did not return an email requesting comment.
Feeney
Gov Elect Healey | 2022-12-23T02:15:35Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Healey endorses public record law for all of state government; Attleboro area lawmakers mixed | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/healey-endorses-public-record-law-for-all-of-state-government-attleboro-area-lawmakers-mixed/article_9bf2b1a8-ec2c-53e7-8ee7-7556a3de5100.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/healey-endorses-public-record-law-for-all-of-state-government-attleboro-area-lawmakers-mixed/article_9bf2b1a8-ec2c-53e7-8ee7-7556a3de5100.html |
H.S. SWIMMING: Attleboro boys, girls sweep North Attleboro
NORTH ATTLEBORO -- The Attleboro High boys and girls swim teams turned back North Attleboro High on Wednesday night at the Hockomock YMCA.
The Attleboro girls took an 84-78 win, winning every event, led by Zuri Ferguson in the 50 and 100 freestyle to qualify for states. The Bombardiers' 200 medley relay team for Attleboro qualified for states. The Bombardiers' 200 free relay team qualified for sectionals, and the 400 free relay team also won its event.
The Bombardiers had two two-event winners in Sydney Dorval (200 IM and the 100 fly) and Carline Lynch-Bartek (200 and 500 free). Ava Dougherty won the 100 breaststroke and Natalia Kotnisz won the 100 backstroke.
"All of our swimmers made a big impact," Attleboro coach Darbie Sawyer said. "I was so proud to see experienced (swimmers) take the lead in events and the first time swimmers really step up and compete in all their events. Out team was battling with the flu last week, all swimmers gave their best."
The Rocketeers were the runner-up in seven events, showing some promise for what North Attleboro coach Danielle McCullough believes is a good future for the team.
Mallory Burns took second in the 200 free for the Rocketeers, finishing at 2:41.56. Sophia Roukhaze placed second in the 50 free at 28.28 and again took second in the 100 free at 1:06.56. Roukhaze was also the leading leg of North's second-place 400 free relay team.
"You can see the improvement every single race and competition we have," McCullough said. "We have a young team so they have a lot of growing to do and we just look forward to taking on the (Kelley-Rex Division) this year for the first time in a few years."
In the boys race, the Bombardiers won 95-45, taking advantage of a low-numbered Rocketeers team as AHS won all the events.
Attleboro finished the 200 medley in 1:47.27, the 200 free in 1:37.78 and the 400 free at 4:12.18. Andrew Greaves (200 free), Connor Coleman (200 individual medley and 100 back), Cooper Johnson (50 free), Ryan Connors (100 fly and 500 free), Ben Connors (100 free and 100 breast) all won individual events.
"I could go on and on listing all the swimmers and how amazing everyone is — Attleboro boys have depth," Attleboro coach Sarah Faulkner said. "This is something that other teams in the Hock don't have. Our program grows every year and every year we get better and better."
The Rocketeers had two runner-up finishes from Howell Braillard in the 200 free (2:24.22) and Josh Kafel in the 100 butterfly (1:05.41). | 2022-12-23T02:15:47Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | H.S. SWIMMING: Attleboro boys, girls sweep North Attleboro | Local Sports | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-swimming-attleboro-boys-girls-sweep-north-attleboro/article_837938e5-23eb-5b84-b585-0b0962ca94d1.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-swimming-attleboro-boys-girls-sweep-north-attleboro/article_837938e5-23eb-5b84-b585-0b0962ca94d1.html |
Attleboro rec chief, assistant fill in at COA after director's retirement
Attleboro Council on Aging Director Melissa Tucker retired at the end of November.
Dennis Walsh Attleboro rec director
ATTLEBORO — Council on Aging Director Melissa Tucker retired at the end of November after 21 months on the job.
Overall Tucker, 52, had 27 years in at the COA.
A temporary appointment of a woman from Somerset fell through so Mayor Paul Heroux has appointed Recreation Director Dennis Walsh and his assistant Tim Killion to fill in until an new director can be appointed.
It’s not the first time Walsh and Killion have filled in for a departed department head.
The duo took the reins at the park and forestry department when 50-year veteran Aurelia “Sonny” Almeida retired and the position was not filled immediately.
Walsh said the COA’s assistant director also left leaving the department with no administration, so he and Killion volunteered to assist with the daily administrative tasks that need to be performed.
“There are a lot of good people over there and we’re glad to support them in some way,” Walsh said.
Walsh and Killion won’t be paid extra for their efforts.
“The city’s been good to me,” Walsh said. “I’m just trying to help out.”
Tucker took over at the COA during a tough time.
The COA was tasked with trying to help seniors make appointments for coronavirus vaccinations as the pandemic raged.
And it was no easy task, even for computer-savvy outreach workers.
At the beginning of the vaccination campaign there was little supply and hundreds of thousands of elders seeking shots statewide.
Outreach workers said they were constantly at their computers pushing the refresh button trying to get into the electronic queue to make appointments. It took weeks to succeed.
“The most vulnerable population had the most difficult time getting the shot,” Tucker said in an interview at the time.
In addition, Tucker also pushed for a feasibility study for a new Council on Aging center which is now in progress.
Tim Killion | 2022-12-23T04:34:42Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Attleboro rec chief, assistant fill in at COA after director's retirement | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/attleboro-rec-chief-assistant-fill-in-at-coa-after-directors-retirement/article_6fc0a54a-bc7b-5f3f-9f7c-72e2c58697f1.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/attleboro-rec-chief-assistant-fill-in-at-coa-after-directors-retirement/article_6fc0a54a-bc7b-5f3f-9f7c-72e2c58697f1.html |
H.S. BOYS BASKETBALL: Clutch free throws help Attleboro deny B-R
BRIDGEWATER — The Attleboro High boys basketball team held a one-point lead with under a minute to go and was able to hit free throws late in the game to seal a 59-54 road win over Bridgewater-Raynham on Thursday night.
In a back-and-forth contest, the Bombardiers held the lead much of the way, but was unable to generate any separation until late. Attleboro led at halftime 24-22, and 37-35 after the third quarter.
“We did a nice job of finding the open man and making some adjustments,” Attleboro coach Mark Houle said. “They kept coming back and it was a one point game. We hit some free throws down at the end to give us a five-point win. I was really proud to see the leadership from our team.”
Neo Franco exploded for 27 points for the Bombardiers. Michael Beverly, a senior captain, added 11 points.
“We’ve been talking about taking care of details,” Houle said. “The leadership from Neo and Jaden (Outland) and Beverly was pivotal in the last minute and a half. They stepped up. They made the right plays and the ball was in the right hands.”
Attleboro (3-1) is off until it plays Bishop Feehan on Jan. 3.
MILTON — Foxboro cruised to a win, getting 30 points from Alex Penders to defeat Milton.
The Warriors scored 25 points in the first quarter and entered halftime with a 40-22 advantage. Milton never threatened the rest of the way.
Foxboro (2-2) plays Friday at New Bedford.
Tri-County 54, Norfolk Agricultural 49
FRANKLIN — Tri-County defeated Norfolk Agricultural, earning its first win of the season in front of the home crowd.
The Cougars were led in scoring by Owen Maw with 12 points. Maw also tallied four steals and five assists.
Tri-County (1-2) plays Tuesday in the Tri-County Winter Boosters Tournament.
Attleboro High
Mark Houle
Michael Beverly | 2022-12-23T04:34:49Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | H.S. BOYS BASKETBALL: Clutch free throws help Attleboro deny B-R | Local Sports | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-boys-basketball-clutch-free-throws-help-attleboro-deny-b-r/article_6a778539-1fba-5520-89ae-5254ff91cbf8.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-boys-basketball-clutch-free-throws-help-attleboro-deny-b-r/article_6a778539-1fba-5520-89ae-5254ff91cbf8.html |
H.S. INDOOR TRACK: Seekonk boys cruise past Joseph Case in dual win
NEW BEDFORD — The Seekonk High boys indoor track team defeated Joseph Case on Thursday night, winning 48-17.
The Warriors won the shot put with Josh Troiano’s toss of 46-8 1/2 inches. Noah Amaral won the mile in 5:35 while Darren Romani won the 55 meters in 6.7 seconds and was second in the 300 meters. Brett Mello won the 300 in 42.7 seconds.
Seekonk’s Cristiano Almeida won the 600 (1:46.4) and Noah Tadros took the 1,000 (3:25).
Tadros placed second in the mile behind Amaral at a time of 5:45.
Joseph Case
Noah Amaral
Noah Tadros | 2022-12-23T04:35:13Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | H.S. INDOOR TRACK: Seekonk boys cruise past Joseph Case in dual win | Local Sports | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-indoor-track-seekonk-boys-cruise-past-joseph-case-in-dual-win/article_8fae9e97-4c55-5797-adb3-8bd7b954a42a.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-indoor-track-seekonk-boys-cruise-past-joseph-case-in-dual-win/article_8fae9e97-4c55-5797-adb3-8bd7b954a42a.html |
H.S. BOYS BASKETBALL: Bishop Feehan goes wire to wire in win over Wareham
Bishop Feehan High’s Jack Chabot launches a mid-range jumper while surrounded by three Wareham High defenders Friday night in Attleboro.
Bishop Feehan High’s Cooper Snead shoots a 3-pointer between a pair of Wareham High defenders Friday night in Attleboro.
Bishop Feehan High’s Phillip Botelho gets wrapped up as he drives the baseline Friday night against Wareham High.
ATTLEBORO — The Bishop Feehan High boys basketball team entered its Christmas break with a decisive 66-60 win over Wareham High Friday night in a game in which the Shamrocks never trailed.
Feehan (2-0) jumped out to an early 10-0 lead, putting Wareham on its heels early, but the Vikings quickly found their footing although the visitors could not close the deficit in the first quarter.
Holding a 20-11 advantage through the first eight minutes, the Shamrocks opened the floodgates from beyond the arc in the second quarter. Wareham cut the deficit to three, but a 19-2 run by Bishop Feehan gave the Shamrocks a comfortable cushion.
Bishop Feehans’s Cooper Snead’s five 3-pointers during the run were the catalyst for the Shamrocks’ 44-24 lead at halftime.
“Cooper shot the ball really well in the first half, he’s one of the better shooters I’ve coached,” Bishop Feehan head coach Dean O’Connor said. “A lot of them were contested shots, it gave us a good momentum boost.”
There was a little concern for the Shamrocks entering the night after having not played in a game in 13 days. O’Connor was worried that his team would come out flat. He had his players work in practice to simulate game speed and situation to keep the Shamrocks in game shape for the last week and a half.
“We haven’t played since Dec. 10, so I was worried we’d be pretty flat,” O’Connor said. “We came out just the opposite. ... We were just trying to make practice competitive, balance out (inter-squad) teams. I think that helped and the kids were extra motivated.”
Wareham rallied in the second half, outscoring Feehan in the final minutes of the third quarter 15-2 to make it a 54-48 game entering the fourth quarter. However, the Vikings never held the lead, getting only as close as six points in the fourth quarter.
The intensity picked up significantly in the second half as Wareham started to foul Feehan’s shooters hard. Diving for loose balls, with bodies falling to the floor, Wareham bullied the Shamrocks at times, but the Shamrocks didn’t break under the pressure.
O’Connor said Wareham’s defense on Snead in the second half saw him get locked up slightly, and that his players did a good job of handling the physical nature of the game. Snead finished with a team-high 21 points while Jack Chabot added 16 points.
“Snead was having a big game and they knew he was going to do something,” O’Connor said. “They started face-guarding him and making it tough, trying to get under our skin. They picked up some fouls and I thought we did a good job of handling it. I thought we handled it well.”
The Shamrocks return to action Wednesday against Canton. | 2022-12-24T04:53:41Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | H.S. BOYS BASKETBALL: Bishop Feehan goes wire to wire in win over Wareham | Local Sports | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-boys-basketball-bishop-feehan-goes-wire-to-wire-in-win-over-wareham/article_d812be2c-a956-5001-b843-485abb71d224.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-boys-basketball-bishop-feehan-goes-wire-to-wire-in-win-over-wareham/article_d812be2c-a956-5001-b843-485abb71d224.html |
Jonathan Connon’s new home.
Bluestone Bank
Elizabeth Caruso
Bluestone Bank Vice President & Area Sales Manager Mary Buck recently closed a deal for first-time homebuyer Jonathan Connon under MassHousing’s MassDREAMS program. The program provides support, including expanded down payment assistance, for those who have been disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. Connon was referred to Buck by one of her realtor partners, John Hagberg, owner of All Business Realty in Norton. Hagberg suggested Connon reach out to Buck to obtain a pre-approval as a first-time buyer, knowing Bluestone Bank was offering the MassHousing MassDREAMS grant to qualified buyers. Connon was able to make an offer and close the deal in just 30 days, in time for the holiday season.
At its annual meeting on Dec. 8, the Massachusetts Chapter of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (MassNAELA) honored Mansfield resident and Norwell attorney Elizabeth Caruso with its Outstanding Chapter Member of the Year award. The award recognized her commitment to events and committees supporting the chapter’s elder law advocacy efforts.
Juri Love, a Sun Chronicle and Foxboro Reporter correspondent, was featured during a presentation by the Women in Film and Video New England chapter during the organization’s Dec. 12 meeting at GBH in Boston. Love, a Foxboro resident, made a testimonial video about how the organization has helped her as a filmmaker after she received the 2021 grand prize for Outstanding Women of the Boston 48 Hour Film Project. During that project, she created a 5- to 7-minute film in 48 hours with required elements. | 2022-12-24T06:31:56Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Biz Buzz | Business | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/business/biz-buzz/article_14bd576a-135c-57dc-865c-624f4e89dbd9.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/business/biz-buzz/article_14bd576a-135c-57dc-865c-624f4e89dbd9.html |
Guest column: May harmony and understanding overcome discord and division
Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha
By Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha
After 2,000-plus years of Christianity, we live in a divided world confronting sin, evil, hatred, racism, injustice, and war. Because we have rejected the teaching of Jesus and the Word of God and have embraced a secularized way of life, we are facing these problems and seeing the suffering of so many people throughout the world.
Edgar M. da Cunha is bishop of the Fall River Diocese which covers Bristol County as well as the Cape and Islands. | 2022-12-24T06:32:02Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Guest column: May harmony and understanding overcome discord and division | Communities | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/communities/guest-column-may-harmony-and-understanding-overcome-discord-and-division/article_4da7db2a-2b90-5ba2-be3d-c57a962a535a.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/communities/guest-column-may-harmony-and-understanding-overcome-discord-and-division/article_4da7db2a-2b90-5ba2-be3d-c57a962a535a.html |
Bill Zuck:Trying to catch Santa in the act
As our children were decorating the Christmas tree earlier this month, they helped to put the star on top; they assisted with unraveling and stringing the lights; and they did most of the hanging of the ornaments. Also, my daughter made sure to install what she called a “Santa trap.”
I wouldn’t be surprised if there were many such traps of various design and size readied in homes throughout the world in time for Christmas Eve. After all, who hasn’t wanted to catch old St. Nick in the act?
Several kinds of traps sprung to mind when my daughter talked about her creation. I pictured a big net that would fall on Santa as soon as he emerged from the fire place; or perhaps a steel bear trap that would suddenly snap closed on his boot; or a giant mousetrap, one of those snap traps that would hold Santa in place no matter how hard he wiggled or wriggled.
Fortunately for dear Santa, my daughter’s trap was a much gentler type. In one particular spot on the Christmas tree — low to the floor and close to where the presents usually get placed — she hung a handful of ornaments that all had bells on them. As soon as Santa started placing gifts under the tree, he was sure to inadvertently make the bells on the ornaments ring, thereby alerting her to his presence.
I had to admit, it was a pretty good plan. If ever my daughter were to catch a glimpse of Santa Claus on Christmas Eve, this would be the way.
Those bell ornaments, however, are in such a high-traffic location that I worry that this trap might catch more than Santa. Every time I walk by the tree, I have to take care not to disturb any of the bells. My wife and I have both accidentally knocked into the trap; in addition to being a Santa trap, it’s also a Mommy trap and a Daddy trap.
And, a Lucy trap. Whenever good old Lucy heads into the living room and walks past the Christmas tree, her tail always connects with one or more tree branches or ornaments. It would be cute if it weren’t also maddening; the branches bounce back and forth and the poor ornaments go flying to the floor.
Urgently telling Lucy to move away from the tree or to stop wagging her tail so much only makes things worse. Her ears go up and her tail pumps faster, because of course, she doesn’t understand what we’re saying to her. Maybe she thinks we’re telling her that she’ll get to eat whatever Christmas cookies Santa leaves behind on his plate.
Of all the possible Santa trap designs, I would think this one could work. The one design flaw that my daughter hasn’t accounted for, however, is how faint the bells will sound to anyone who’s not in the living room. It’s touchy but just too quiet.
If — and when — it goes off in the middle of the night on Christmas Eve, my daughter is likely to be upstairs in her bed, too deep asleep to hear the tinkling of the bells. I guess I’ll just have to keep an eye out for Santa myself.
BILL ZUCK would love to get a good night’s sleep on Christmas Eve. You can reach him at wcz78@yahoo.com. | 2022-12-24T06:32:26Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Bill Zuck:Trying to catch Santa in the act | Columns | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/columns/bill-zuck-trying-to-catch-santa-in-the-act/article_63334d2a-4bc5-5e52-8279-19396ac56d09.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/columns/bill-zuck-trying-to-catch-santa-in-the-act/article_63334d2a-4bc5-5e52-8279-19396ac56d09.html |
Oreste D'Arconte: A craftsman at work
Have all your presents wrapped? I do. Can’t wait until the last minute, doncha know. In my house, I’ve been the chief gift-wrapper for years. Gimme the paper, the Scotch tape and the gifts, and stand back!
I’m actually thinking about teaching a gift-wrapping class next year, maybe at the Y or the library, because I’m obviously “gifted” in this area. Don’t my kids always say, “Well, I guess we know who wrapped this,” so that tells you something doesn’t it? They don’t always say it with a smile, but I understand that there’s a lot of pressure during the holidays.
If you haven’t finished wrapping yet, here’s a tip: Cutting the wrapping paper and then finding it’s too small to cover the gift is one of the biggest problems you run into.
The answer’s simple. Hey, don’t cut a larger sheet of paper and toss the smaller one. Just cut a strip of the same paper, tape it to the bottom of the gift and wrap as usual. Who’ll know.
Or be cool and use two different sheets of wrapping paper. How creative, you’ll hear. You can also lay the present down on the paper diagonally and bring the four corners in and tape’em down. Works most of the time.
Gift bags? Yawn. And forget the ribbons and bows. It’s a waste of time. They are as practical as garnishes and mixes in cocktails. You need to drink your drinks neat, or waste a lot of ice. When wrapping gifts, neat is the word.
I have to make it clear that I only wrap presents for those who ask me.
I’ve learned not to go nuts looking for something people might want. I give a little cash and a 5th Avenue candy bar, in a sock-like tree ornament. Talk about tradition …
When the kids were younger, I actually did save some Yule tasks for the last minute.
After the huge, riotous Christmas Eve parties we used to have, I would go down to the basement in the wee hours of Christmas morning and spend a few hours putting together Big Wheels and dollhouses. Some of them even worked Christmas morning … Happy holidays all!
“I’ve learned that every day you should reach out and touch someone. People love a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back.”
— Maya Angelou
Last week I bet you couldn’t tell me the first movie to depict a same-sex marriage.
The hint was it’s a Christmas classic released in 1938. My answer: “Babes in Toyland” with Laurel and Hardy. You may remember Stan poses as Little Bo Peep in a wedding dress and thick veil and is married to the villain Barnabas. Watch it again. It was also titled “The March of the Wooden Soldiers.”
No one got this apparently tough one, or you guys were just too busy wrapping gifts. One wrong guess was “Santa Claus vs. The Martians.” Another reader wrote: “I have no idea. I couldn’t think of a classic Christmastime movie that was old enough.”
Now, talking about gifts, I bet you can’t tell me which traditional Christmas character has garlic in their soul. Deadline is noon Tuesday. | 2022-12-24T06:32:39Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Oreste D'Arconte: A craftsman at work | Columns | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/columns/oreste-darconte-a-craftsman-at-work/article_0f76d7e1-4aef-5edd-846b-d5311d68fbd6.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/columns/oreste-darconte-a-craftsman-at-work/article_0f76d7e1-4aef-5edd-846b-d5311d68fbd6.html |
True Santas: Finding their passion saving horses in Norton
Heidi and Bob Medas run the Smokey Chestnut Farm Rescue in Norton. They are shown here with Dory, left, and Lucky.
Heidi and Bob Medas run the Smokey Chestnut Farm Rescue in Norton. They are posing with Dory, left, and Lucky.
Heidi and Bob Medas have been giving rescued animals a home at the Smokey Chestnut Farm Rescue, their farm in Norton, for almost three decades.
The animal rescue specializes in horses, but all kinds of animals are welcome. Along with 12 horses the farm is currently home to three pigs, three goats and an alpaca.
“Ever since I was a young child, I’ve been drawn to helping animals in need,” said Heidi, 58. “I took in the strays…it just grew from that.”
Though her husband Bob, 59, also grew up with animals, when the farm was first established almost 30 years ago, it was Heidi Medas who was most involved. That has changed in their years running the farm together. “Slowly but surely, I think he’s really gotten into enjoying taking care of the animals,” Heidi Medas said.
Now both Medases are heavily involved at the farm, both in administrative roles organizing events and fundraisers, as well as taking on shifts caring for the animals.
Heidi Medas works the morning shift at the farm before leaving for a job interpreting for deaf and hard of hearing students at Boston University. Bob Medas, who retired from the Norton Highway Department, works the evening shift at the farm. Both are assisted by a number of other volunteers.
“I’m always busy doing things for the rescue, but it’s where my heart is,” Heidi said.
Their work is also important. Many of the animals currently living on the farm would have ended up at kill pens if the Medases had not given them a home, Bob said.
“They’ve worked their whole life for people, so to be thrown away like that, it’s just terrible,” he said. “They can come here to retire and live their life out … Even if it’s for a day, it’s worth every second.”
To learn more about volunteering and donating, visit smokeychestnutfarm.com/partners. | 2022-12-24T06:33:16Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | True Santas: Finding their passion saving horses in Norton | | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/true-santas-finding-their-passion-saving-horses-in-norton/article_aa64e2fa-0408-5076-888a-d818fda23c64.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/true-santas-finding-their-passion-saving-horses-in-norton/article_aa64e2fa-0408-5076-888a-d818fda23c64.html |
True Santas: From library patron to museum volunteer, finding meaning in Plainville
Fond memories of visiting the Humphrey House when it was a library inspired Deb Henry to volunteer with the Plainville Historical Commission.
Deb Henry of Plainville volunteers weekly with the Plainville Historical Commission at the Humphrey House.
Decades before Deb Henry began coming to Plainville’s Humphrey House every week to volunteer with the museum there, she was a frequent visitor for another reason: books.
While the house now serves as a museum and the headquarters for the Plainville Historical Commission, it used to be the town library.
“That little library represented the world to us back then,” said Henry, 66, who was born in Newport, R.I., but grew up in Plainville.
Fond memories of the library inspired her to start volunteering with the historical commission nearly two years ago after she was initially contacted by Kristine Moore, the commission’s chairperson.
Through her volunteer work at the museum, Henry has had the opportunity to reconnect with the town, satisfy a lifelong love of history and develop connections with other volunteers.
“I love the group of people that I work with,” Henry said. “The camaraderie is great. They know so much about the town for different reasons.”
To learn more about the Plainville Historical Commission, visit plainville.ma.us/historical-commission. | 2022-12-24T06:33:22Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | True Santas: From library patron to museum volunteer, finding meaning in Plainville | | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/true-santas-from-library-patron-to-museum-volunteer-finding-meaning-in-plainville/article_42fd0d95-a618-5c9e-8196-ee9d59930fea.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/true-santas-from-library-patron-to-museum-volunteer-finding-meaning-in-plainville/article_42fd0d95-a618-5c9e-8196-ee9d59930fea.html |
Foxboro residents Jim De-
Vellis and Lynda Walsh have been running the Friends of Foxboro Veterans program for 10 years now.
Every year, starting in mid-October, DeVellis, 56, and Walsh, 61, put together gift packages that are delivered to Foxboro veterans and their families by members of the community around Thanksgiving.
The community helps put together the packages, also. While initially they delivered turkeys to veterans, in recent years the packages have also included gift cards, along with squash from local farmer Earl Ferguson, an entry pass for the Thanksgiving Day football game at Foxboro High School and a whoopie pie.
The packages also include thank you cards for the veterans from Foxboro schoolchildren.
At the time that he and Walsh first put their program together, his three kids were still attending school. Making connections between Foxboro students like his children and veterans — bridging that generational gap — was a major motivator for him.
Both DeVellis, a former town selectman and civil engineer, and Walsh, who works at a printing company, also have personal connections to a veteran.
DeVellis’ father was in the service and Walsh’s father fought in World War II.
That connection, along with the gratitude they receive from the veterans to whom they deliver, motivates the pair.
For more information about veterans’ services in Foxboro, visit foxboroughma.gov/departments/veterans_services | 2022-12-24T06:33:53Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | True Santas: Thanking veterans for their service in Foxboro | | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/true-santas-thanking-veterans-for-their-service-in-foxboro/article_35c2423a-d0a9-5b48-935a-1d9bb62057b6.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/true-santas-thanking-veterans-for-their-service-in-foxboro/article_35c2423a-d0a9-5b48-935a-1d9bb62057b6.html |
Happy Holidays Readers
We at The Sun Chronicle wish all our loyal readers and our many letter writers, columnists, contributors, and advertisers, a very happy holiday season.
You may find fault with some of the opinions expressed on this page either by us, a columnist or a letter writer, but there is one thing we surely can all agree on: the importance of The Sun Chronicle to Attleboro, North Attleboro and the many other the communities it serves.
Thank you for being with us and supporting us, especially during these last few difficult and trying years.
Rest assured, you can count on us and our team of award-winning editors, reporters and photographers, as well as the many dedicated workers we have in our advertising, circulation, press and distribution departments, to be here for you in the new year, bringing you the best local coverage around.
May your 2023 be one of peace.
— Craig Borges, executive editor/general manager | 2022-12-24T08:09:58Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Happy Holidays Readers | Opinion | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/happy-holidays-readers/article_00801080-b2a7-54ab-99e4-8c5fff7bcb46.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/happy-holidays-readers/article_00801080-b2a7-54ab-99e4-8c5fff7bcb46.html |
H.S. GIRLS BASKETBALL: North unable to pull back Bedford in loss
BEDFORD -- The North Attleboro High girls basketball team lost on the road Friday night, losing to Bedford High 66-35.
The Rocketeers trailed 17-16 through the first quarter, but was unable to gain ground in the second quarter as they entered halftime down 37-18.
North head coach Nikki Correia said the Rocketeers worked their way back to a one-point game, but stalled on the offense end before entering halftime.
"We got down a few then chipped away," North coach Nikki Correia said. "In the second quarter we stood around a little too much on offense and were not moving without the ball. (We) got some open looks as well, but they didn't fall."
Leading North Attleboro on the floor was Sam Faria with 11 points. MaryEllen Charette added nine points.
North Attleboro plays again on Tuesday, hosting Bedford. | 2022-12-25T00:31:12Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | H.S. GIRLS BASKETBALL: North unable to pull back Bedford in loss | Local Sports | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-girls-basketball-north-unable-to-pull-back-bedford-in-loss/article_dc4afbae-f2af-5ea3-998a-11b7a322de5e.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-girls-basketball-north-unable-to-pull-back-bedford-in-loss/article_dc4afbae-f2af-5ea3-998a-11b7a322de5e.html |
Attleboro area fire officials brace for fires, emergencies with high fuel prices and low temperatures
Daniel DiDonato, a deliveryman for Heatable, brings heating oil to a home in Lewiston, Maine.
Robert F. Bukaty/Associated Press file photo
state DEPARTMENT OF FIRE SERVCIES
The Mansfield fire department shared this photo on their Facebook page to illustrate the dangers of a fire caused when a portable space heater is plugged into an extension cord.
MANSFIELD FIRE DEPARTMENT
Attleboro Fire Chief Scott Lachance
State and local fire officials say hard times and cold weather could be a recipe for disaster if residents do not take the proper precautions.
With sub-freezing temperatures over the holiday weekend and lower seasonal temperatures than usual for the start of the week, fire officials say residents should check their smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and make sure heating systems are properly maintained.
“Home heating equipment is the second-leading cause of residential fires, and solid fuel appliances like fireplaces and wood stoves account for a rising percentage over the past five years,” state Fire Marshal Peter Ostroskey said in a statement.
Last year, 43% of all residential heating fires were caused by solid fuel sources, such as woods stoves. That was up from 35% in 2017, according to the state Department of Fire Services.
With the price of heating oil around $5 a gallon, natural gas prices higher and inflation the highest in four decades, fire officials expect more people will turn to alternative heating sources to cut their bills.
“Certainly the alternative fuel sources are responsible for a fair amount of fires. With the price of everything going higher, inflation, and the way things are, it’s always a concern,” Foxboro Fire Chief Mike Kelleher said.
Mansfield Fire Chief Justin Desrosiers agrees.
“When all the prices go up we always see more fires and more injuries, too,” Desrosiers said.
Attleboro Fire Chief Scott Lachance said wood stoves are always a concern, especially older ones installed in older homes which may not have been installed by a licensed person.
“It’s usually a homemade special,” Lachance said.
In addition to wood or pellet stoves, fire officials say they are also concerned about the use of portable space heaters and even kitchen ovens by residents trying to cut their fuel bills.
Portable space heaters should never be used with an extension cord. They should be kept at least three feet away from walls or combustible materials and never left unattended.
Fire officials say they also expect fireplaces to be working overtime and urge residents to have their chimneys inspected and cleaned by a licensed chimney sweep.
When smoke from a fireplace doesn’t entirely escape from the chimney, creosote -- a black, tar-like substance -- can build up and cause a fire, fire officials said.
“We always see chimney fires in the winter. That stuff really builds up,” Kelleher said.
Fireplaces should always be used with a screen on them and the door to a wood stove should always be closed. Fires should be extinguished before going to bed or leaving the house, fire officials said.
Ashes should be disposed of in a metal can with a tight-fitting lid and placed at least 10 feet from a home. Ashes should never be placed in the trash.
Candles create a comfortable atmosphere but fire officials say they are dangerous and should never be left unattended.
Residents should also test their smoke and carbon monoxide detectors regularly to make sure they are working properly and change the batteries every fall and spring.
Smoke alarms should be replaced after 10 years and carbon monoxide alarms after five to seven years, depending on the make and model.
In addition to fire dangers, firefighters say they respond to more carbon monoxide calls each winter due to malfunctioning heating systems or blocked vents.
“Carbon monoxide is the silent killer,” Lachance said, adding that it does not have an odor or color so it escapes detection.
Early detection the devices, such as smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, save lives and keep property damage to a minimum.
State and local fire officials offer the following tips:
To improve efficiency and safety, home furnaces should be inspected and cleaned annually and outside vents should be clear of snow.
Gas leaks can be dangerous, so if there is an odor of rotten eggs inside the house, residents should go outdoors.
Residents should call 911 if smoke or carbon monoxide alarms activate or if they suspect a gas leak
Residents should also have an escape plan in the event of a fire with a designated area to meet outside the home.
Residents with any questions about home heating safety can call their local fire department.
Anyone who needs help to pay the cost of heating their homes can contact their local human services offices for information.
They can also contact the state Department of Housing and Community Development at mass.gov/orgs/housing-and-community-development
The website heatinghelpMA.org provides information for those in need of heating assistance as well as energy efficiency program information and a link to the department’s online application portal toapply.org/MassLIHEAP.
Assistance is also available through Self Help Inc. in Brockton by calling 508-588-5440 or going to selfhelpinc.org
For more information on fire safety go to: mass.gov/orgs/department-of-fire-services
Fire Officials | 2022-12-25T20:57:57Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Attleboro area fire officials brace for fires, emergencies with high fuel prices and low temperatures | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/attleboro-area-fire-officials-brace-for-fires-emergencies-with-high-fuel-prices-and-low-temperatures/article_ed313ff4-421a-5aad-9ace-bf1a27014ffe.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/attleboro-area-fire-officials-brace-for-fires-emergencies-with-high-fuel-prices-and-low-temperatures/article_ed313ff4-421a-5aad-9ace-bf1a27014ffe.html |
Jovan Joseph of Wrentham stays bundled up as she collects shopping carts at Target in Plainville on Saturday, Dec. 24.
Dave Demelia For The Sun Chronicle
Those temperatures are usually only seen in January and February -- the coldest winter months, .
It wasn't the most opportune time to lose power, and there may have been some holiday parties where wearing coats indoors was a must.
Snow showers were reported in some areas and Chester and other western Massachusetts towns had up to a half- foot of snow instead of rain.
After another cold day Monday, with highs in the 30s and lows in the 20s, the week should gradually warm up a little leading to New Year's, meteorologists said. | 2022-12-25T22:30:59Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Brutal cold over holiday weekend to give way to more seasonable temperatures | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/brutal-cold-over-holiday-weekend-to-give-way-to-more-seasonable-temperatures/article_59aaffb6-db59-557c-b422-773dadcbaa37.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/brutal-cold-over-holiday-weekend-to-give-way-to-more-seasonable-temperatures/article_59aaffb6-db59-557c-b422-773dadcbaa37.html |
If only you could harness the energy Kita spends wagging her tail, you would never have to pay for electricity again! This happy girl enjoys walks and hanging out with shelter volunteers. Just say her name and the tail wagging begins! Her most favorite thing in the world is having her Kong in her mouth, so if you want to play fetch, you better bring two. She’s not overly cuddly she but does like to be close to you so she can keep her eye on what you’re doing. Although technically a senior at 8 years, Kita still has lots of puppy in her and will keep you on the move. Kita has lived with another dog and would probably like having a brother or sister canine to pal around with. Due to her size, we will not adopt to a family with small children. For more information visit our website at www.mansfieldshelter.org, or meet Kita at the shelter during shelter hours. | 2022-12-26T06:33:49Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | KITA | Pet Day | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/features/pet_day/kita/article_8eea345c-06e3-58c1-8252-3cc24fe9b465.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/features/pet_day/kita/article_8eea345c-06e3-58c1-8252-3cc24fe9b465.html |
Another way we could support Ukraine
As a child growing up during World War II we participated in a patriotic plan, “Buy War Bonds.” Even in school we bought small change “stamps” booklets that, when full, we could turn it in for a full bond.
Every where you went you saw posters and billboards asking us to contribute to help win the war. That type of effort should be adopted now to allow U.S. citizens to help the Ukrainian people save their country and help our country supply guns and ammunition.
Private citizens should, and I believe would , “Buy Bonds for Ukraine” | 2022-12-26T06:34:14Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Another way we could support Ukraine | Letters To Editor | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/letters_to_editor/another-way-we-could-support-ukraine/article_1796601f-7db1-5aa9-88ed-3d4a010ca827.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/letters_to_editor/another-way-we-could-support-ukraine/article_1796601f-7db1-5aa9-88ed-3d4a010ca827.html |
City of Attleboro holding Top Dog contest
Is your dog #1? The Attleboro City Clerk's office is holding a Top Dog contest for residents' canines.
ATTLEBORO -- Who’s the top dog in Attleboro?
No, it’s not Mayor Paul Heroux or whoever succeeds him in the Feb. 28 special election. In 2023, it’s going to be an actual dog.
City Clerk Kate Jackson has put together a Top Dog contest for the 4,000 or so registered canine owners in the city.
Jackson said the contest will begin on Jan. 1 and run until Feb. 28.
Residents must submit photos of their beloved pooches for consideration. The photos must be 4 x 6 inches or 5 x 7 inches in size and should only contain one dog.
If the family has more than one dog, all may be entered on individual photos.
They can be submitted by mail or dropped off.
The photo should include the dog’s name, address and a phone number.
On March 1, city hall workers will pick the top three dogs of the year, and the top dog will get tag No. 1 and get his or her photo in The Sun Chronicle.
The second- and third-place dogs will get tag numbers 2 and 3.
Jackson said one purpose of the contest is to remind dog owners to license their pets before late fees kick in.
Licensing may be done in person at the clerk’s office, 77 Park St. or by mail beginning the week of March 13.
A copy of a valid rabies certificate is required for licensing.
March 1, coincidentally, is the day after voters elect the other top dog in Attleboro, who will occupy the corner office in city hall.
Heroux was elected sheriff of Bristol County in November and currently there are three candidates vying to replace him: former city councilor John Davis and current councilors Cathleen DeSimone and Jay DiLisio.
DiLisio will become acting mayor on Jan. 4 due to his role as council president.
Early in his term, Heroux declared that dogs were welcome to visit city hall along with their owners, and residents have been accompanied by their beloved pooches while paying tax bills or making inquiries at various offices.
Jackson said all the canine contestants will be posted in the foyer of city hall, where the photos of the past 18 mayors are also on display.
There are photos of the mayors at the front door and the back door.
Jackson said the contest will be annual, so any dog left out of the running this year will get another chance next year if their owners can figure out a way to take an even cuter photograph.
For more information on the contest and the registration process contact the city clerk’s office at 508-223-2222 or email cityclerk@cityofattleboro.us. | 2022-12-27T03:33:43Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | City of Attleboro holding Top Dog contest | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/city-of-attleboro-holding-top-dog-contest/article_6aa9a5d4-288f-5835-84d5-f78d8cb80006.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/city-of-attleboro-holding-top-dog-contest/article_6aa9a5d4-288f-5835-84d5-f78d8cb80006.html |
Smaller pharmacies in Attleboro area, beyond also struggling with children's medicine shortage
Abram Agayby owns County Square Pharmacy in Attleboro.
A severe national shortage of some children’s medicines that has frustrated area parents doesn’t show signs of letting up anytime soon.
Pharmacies and some larger stores such as Target and Walmart have been running out of the medicines, including Children’s Tylenol and Motrin, prompting parents and guardians to go from store to store.
Stores and their drug suppliers are facing steep challenges keeping up with the demand for children’s antibiotics and painkillers as colds, the flu, the respiratory illness RSV and COVID spike.
While chain pharmacies such as CVS and Walgreens have been forced to limit sales in store and/or online, independent pharmacies are struggling as well.
“Many customers are asking for Tylenol, ibuprofen, Amoxicillin, Adderall, Ozempic, Trulicity,” said Abram Agayby, a pharmacist and owner of County Square Pharmacy in Attleboro, one of the few independent pharmacies in the area. “I tell them to check in with us every day because we receive a small amount every day.”
The drug store Friday morning had most of the medicines.
“Now I’m sold out for the day,” Agayby said around mid-day. “The shelves are completely empty.”
The pharmacist said his store has been forced to limit sales of some children’s medicines to one particular item per customer as the pharmacy is receiving limited numbers of products.
Agayby explained that his pharmacy, being independent, is able to more quickly receive some inventory than some chain drug stores because he deals with smaller distributors and doesn’t have to go through a lot of the procedural steps they do.
“We have partnerships with small local vendors,” Agayby said. “We really can go above and beyond finding such products.”
The Tylenol shortage has impacted the pharmacy for a few weeks but some shortages have been going on for months, he said.
The pharmacist also said his store is able to mix medicines in its lab.
“We are a compound facility, we’re able to make our own medicine in our lab,” Agayby said.
Doctors and other experts say the shortage problem could persist through the winter cold-and-flu season but should not last as long as other recent shortages of baby formula or prescription drugs.
It hasn’t helped the flu season that usually begins in earnest around December or January started in November this year, officials point out. The RSV illness that affects mainly children also has been more intense this year.
However, parents have alternatives if they encounter empty store shelves.
Parents having difficulty finding medicines are advised by health professionals to contact their health care provider/doctor, shop around and look into buying generic brands if that is advisable. | 2022-12-27T03:33:55Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Smaller pharmacies in Attleboro area, beyond also struggling with children's medicine shortage | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/smaller-pharmacies-in-attleboro-area-beyond-also-struggling-with-childrens-medicine-shortage/article_58c13e79-7b39-5c16-9659-250a5b3146a7.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/smaller-pharmacies-in-attleboro-area-beyond-also-struggling-with-childrens-medicine-shortage/article_58c13e79-7b39-5c16-9659-250a5b3146a7.html |
Bristol County sheriff gives jail tour to his replacement, outgoing Attleboro Mayor Paul Heroux
From left, Supt. Steven Souza, Sheriff Thomas M. Hodgson and Sheriff-elect Paul Heroux talk about the correctional facility during a tour Tuesday morning in Dartmouth.
Courtesy Bristol County Sheriff's Office
Sheriff Thomas M. Hodgson, left, and Sheriff-elect Paul Heroux stop to chat during a tour of the Ash Street Jail in New Bedford on Tuesday afternoon.
Sheriff-elect Paul Heroux, left, and Sheriff Thomas M. Hodgson talk transition during a meeting Tuesday morning in Dartmouth.
From left, Bristol County Sheriff Thomas M. Hodgson, Supt. Steven Souza, Corrections Officer Christopher Bergeron and Sheriff-elect Paul Heroux check out the booking area at the Ash Street Jail in New Bedford Tuesday morning.
NORTH DARTMOUTH -- The election was close and the campaign contentious, but outgoing Sheriff Tom Hodgson and Sheriff-elect Paul Heroux have come together for a smooth transition.
They first got together for a two-hour discussion at Morin’s Restaurant in Attleboro on Dec. 6.
And on Tuesday Hodgson gave Heroux a tour of the Bristol County Jail and House of Correction in North Dartmouth, which was followed by a press conference.
According to the final ballot tally, Heroux defeated Hodgson 92,201 to 89,910, or 50.63% to 49.37%.
The campaign included charges of antisemitism and racism from the Heroux side and of illegal activity from the Hodgson side.
Hodgson said Heroux violated state law in 2020 when he made disparaging comments concerning the president of the city’s firefighters union and when he “made coercive comments” to the wife of a firefighter.
And other supporters of Hodgson pointed out that Heroux was arrested on an assault charge as the result of a domestic dispute about 12 years ago. The charges were eventually dropped.
But all was peaceful on Tuesday.
Hodgson, 68, and a 25 1/2-year incumbent as sheriff had some advice for Heroux, 46.
“My advice is, be you and trust in your people and that will serve you well,” he said.
And related to that was Heroux’s “biggest concern.”
“My biggest concern is that some people won’t trust me,” he said. “Trust is critically important. They have to trust me and I have to trust them.”
Heroux said the “institutional knowledge” that the 600 or so employees of the jail have is very important and listening to them is very important.
“The two most important things are trust and listening,” Heroux said.
He said his top priorities will be to “keep people safe" and to keep morale high.
Heroux said he wants to expand on some of Hodgson’s successes and to address recidivism with “post-release planning.”
He said he does not intend to introduce any big changes immediately.
“Drastic sweeping changes would be a bad idea for an institution that is working,” Heroux said. “It would be disruptive to the operation.”
But he added some things will change.
“I’m certainly going to do some things a little different,” Heroux said.
One of those things may be changes in the organizational chart that dictates “who reports to whom.”
He also said he plans to evaluate programs to determine how well they are working and will publish the results.
Heroux said the most helpful part of the tour was putting names to faces throughout the facility.
And he said he would serve "one, maybe two terms” as sheriff. Each term is six years.
“I’m not going to be sheriff for life,” said Heroux, who is in his third two-year term as mayor.
He’ll be sworn in to office on Jan. 3 and take over as sheriff on Jan. 4.
Later in the day, Heroux said via text that he was "surprised to see inmates playing cards, watching TV, and especially inmates had tablets" at the jail.
"Access to these things is nothing I disagreed with," he said. "But the stories one hears are different. I didn’t think there were any TVs. I didn’t think there was any card playing. And I certainly did not expect to see tablets."
Hodgson said he will help Heroux with any questions he may have.
“I’ll be available by phone,” he said. “Call any time.”
Hodgson shrugged off his defeat.
"It wasn't meant to be," he said. "I've had a great run."
And he said the most important thing for him is to enable a peaceful transfer of the office.
“It’s important to have a smooth transition,” Hodgson said.
He thanked reporters for their coverage of the Bristol County Jail over the years he’s been sheriff and he thanked his staff.
“I have been so blessed to have so many dedicated people,” Hodgson said, “and to accomplish what they have done.”
Hodgson
The Sun Chronicle.
Bristol County Jail And House Of Corrections | 2022-12-28T00:43:28Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Bristol County sheriff gives jail tour to his replacement, outgoing Attleboro Mayor Paul Heroux | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/bristol-county-sheriff-gives-jail-tour-to-his-replacement-outgoing-attleboro-mayor-paul-heroux/article_acb5da35-e6d6-5c1e-8a4c-dfb5fedcd2d1.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/bristol-county-sheriff-gives-jail-tour-to-his-replacement-outgoing-attleboro-mayor-paul-heroux/article_acb5da35-e6d6-5c1e-8a4c-dfb5fedcd2d1.html |
Mass.gas prices keep dipping but predicted to rise in coming months
Gas prices in Massachusetts continue to sink toward the $3 level but are expected to rise again when the heavy driving season kicks in this spring.
GasBuddy.com analysts had predicted gas would hit $3 by the holidays. While that didn't happen, the site now expects prices could again rise to the $4 mark by May.
Costs are now at their lowest level since January.
The price of regular, self-serve gas in Massachusetts is averaging $3.37 a gallon, AAA Northeast said Tuesday after its weekly survey of gas stations.
That's down 7 cents from last week's survey, when the price dropped a dime, falling below the $3.50 mark for the first time since the first week in October.
Prices in the Bay State have decreased six straight weeks and 48 cents overall.
The current Massachusetts price is 1 cent lower than a year ago ($3.38) and 27 cents higher than the national average, which sank 2 cents since last week to $3.10.
In Rhode Island, AAA Northeast found gas is averaging $3.26, also a decrease of 7 cents.
Gas costs in Massachusetts topped $5 in June, and were above $4 from March to the beginning of September. | 2022-12-28T00:43:34Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Mass.gas prices keep dipping but predicted to rise in coming months | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/mass-gas-prices-keep-dipping-but-predicted-to-rise-in-coming-months/article_dfdf1ab9-6351-5863-b596-4a4a59c50f8a.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/mass-gas-prices-keep-dipping-but-predicted-to-rise-in-coming-months/article_dfdf1ab9-6351-5863-b596-4a4a59c50f8a.html |
H.S. BOYS BASKETBALL: Hornets have their way in home debut
Mansfield High’s J.T. Veiking, center, battles Bedford High’s Justin Liberman, left, and Ryan Cohen, right, for a loose ball during the first quarter of their game in Mansfield Tuesday.
Paul Connors / for The Sun Chronicle
Mansfield’s Trevor Foley, left, throw up a shot against Bedford’s Jameson Baer, right, during the first quarter at Mansfield High School Tuesday, in Mansfield.
Mansfield’s Chris Hill, left, is fouled by Bedford’s Justice Buchannan, right, during the first quarter at Mansfield High School Tuesday, in Mansfield.
Mansfield’s Michael Creedon, left, collides with Bedford’s Justin Liberman, right, as he drives to the basket during the second quarter at Mansfield High School Tuesday, in Mansfield.
Mansfield High’s Trevor Foley hauls in a rebound in front of Bedford High’s Justin Liberman during the second quarter of their game Tuesday in Mansfield.
MANSFIELD — Unless the Mansfield High boys basketball team is in a rut with its processing of passes or with the selection of its shots, the variables for overcoming the Hornets are few for foes.
The Hornets committed just three first-half turnovers while knocking down five 3-point field goals to go with assists on 11 of their 17 shots from the floor that fell through the twine.
It all added up to the fourth win of the young season for the unbeaten Hornets in their home opener Tuesday at James Albertini Gymnasium, a 71-44 conquest of Bedford High in a non-league contest.
“We have enough basketball players on the floor that we can do a good job of taking care of the ball,” Mansfield High coach Michael Vaughan said.
Nine players contributed points as the Hornets’ big and battle-tested front court of seniors J.T. Veiking at 6-foot-7 and Chris Hill, at 6-foot-5, proved to be matchup nightmares for the Buccaneers — inside or outside.
Veiking put up 13 second quarter points, hitting for three of his four trifectas in the contest during the quarter en route to a 20-point, six-rebound, two-assist performance.
Hill accounted for nine first quarter points, helping the Hornets hit eight of 14 field goal attempts, and finished with 16 points, four rebounds and four assists.
Mansfield junior swingman Ed McCoy added 12 points and junior swingman Trevor Foley totaled nine points, four rebounds and two assists.
“We’re still trying to find the right combinations of players, who’s a bit better on offense, who can play defense — we’re stilling to figuring out some ID’s,” Vaughan said. “We did a good job of taking care of the ball and finding the open man.”
The Hornets have yet to surrender more than 50 points in their first four wins.
Mansfield’s man-to-man defensive pressure resulted in the Buccaneers (3-3) shooting 6-for-16 from the floor in the first quarter, 3-for-11 during the second quarter and only once did they score two consecutive baskets.
Bedford totaled nine first half turnovers with the Hornets scoring six first quarter points off of a half-dozen turnovers to take a 20-13 lead after eight minutes.
“They’re bigger than us at every position — and they’re strong,” Bedford coach Anthony Hall said of the Hornets. “They move the ball so well.”
The Hornets scored the first nine points of the second quarter, with Veiking converting an offensive rebound, scoring in low and then hitting a 3-pointer off of a Foley feed. Foley finished off the flurry with a fast break bucket off of a Veiking pass.
Mansfield then reeled off 12 straight points to gain a 41-15 lead with just under three minutes left before halftime. In that surge, Veiking hit two trifectas. Ed McCoy drove to the basket to finish off a Caden Colby pass, Hill drove to the basket to finish off a Colby pass and Mike Creedon traveled the same route for two more points as the Hornets gained a 43-20 lead by intermission.
The Hornets delivered a momentum-swinging run of nine straight points in the first quarter, erasing a 6-2 deficit. Foley and Hill drilled 3-pointers off of passes from each other, then Hill converted a steal. Ed McCoy converted a three-point play and then went back door to finish off a Hill pass for a 16-8 margin.
The Hornets were outscored 14-12 during the third quarter and limited to two field goals for the first six minutes, but Bedford still faced a 55-34 deficit entering the fourth quarter.
Ed McCoy then drove to the basket for two points, fed Veiking in low for two more points and converted a Mike Creedon steal into a three-point play.
“We think that we can have some success this season, but we still have areas that we can get better at,” Vaughan said.
Mansfield returns to action at home Saturday for a 2 p.m. New Year’s Eve matinee against Bridgewater-Raynham.
J.t. Veiking
Chris Hill
Ed Mccoy | 2022-12-28T04:43:22Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | H.S. BOYS BASKETBALL: Hornets have their way in home debut | Local Sports | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-boys-basketball-hornets-have-their-way-in-home-debut/article_20362960-bed0-5bd7-962a-c673e92e5a80.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-boys-basketball-hornets-have-their-way-in-home-debut/article_20362960-bed0-5bd7-962a-c673e92e5a80.html |
H.S. INDOOR TRACK: Norton's Raneri, Strynar, Santos shine at Boston Holiday Challenge
Norton High’s Zoe Santos stands next to a marker showing her new school record high jump height of 5 feet, four inches at Tuesday’s Boston Holiday Challenge at the Reggie Lewis Center.
BOSTON — The Norton High indoor track team walked away from the Boston Holiday Challenge at the Reggie Lewis Center on Tuesday with a couple of medalists, new school record holders and New Balance National Indoor Championship qualifiers.
Indoor teams from Norton, Bishop Feehan, Foxboro and King Philip also competed at the meet, which featured teams from all throughout the region.
Qualifying for the New Balance Indoor Championship from Norton were Michael Raneri along with Lancer girls Jillian Strynar and Zoe Santos. Raneri placed 22nd in the long jump at 19-04 1/2 while Strynar was seventh in the 300 meters with a time of 42.43, and she also qualified for the Rising Stars 200 meters. Santos beat the former school record height of 5-1 in the high jump, held by Danielle Whitman and Bekah Sargent.
Strynar added a first-place time of 7.24 in the 55-meter dash for a personal best.
In the girls pentathlon, Norton’s Shaylee Owens finished fourth with a cumulative score of 2,370 ppints. Shea Podbelski timed out in the mile at 5:19.77, sixth overall, and Stantos broke the school record in the high jump with a cleared height of 5-4.
Also breaking a school record was Andrew McConnell on the boys side, finishing second in the mile with a second-place time at 4:26.59 to break his own school record.
For Bishop Feehan, Lauren Augustyn won the two-mile in 11:33.72. Shamrock teammate Brooke Serak had a second-place finish in the shot put. Serak tossed the shot 37 feet, six inches.
The Feehan boys had a ninth-place finish from Noah Gomes D’Sa in the two mile race, timing out at 10:28.84, and Andrew Smith was 10th in the 1,000 meters with a time of 2:41.23.
King Philip had two top-10 finishers in the boys high jump. Finishing as the runner-up was Dylan Woods with a cleared height of six feet, with Keagan Fletcher in seventh at 5-10.
Katherine O’Neil took 10th in the girls shot put, throwing 32 feet for King Philip. The boys 4x800 meter relay team of Nate Sylven, Owen McKenzie, Pranav Srinivasan and Luca Giardini placed seventh in 9:14.65.
Jillian Strynar
Zoe Santos
Michael Raneri | 2022-12-28T04:43:53Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | H.S. INDOOR TRACK: Norton's Raneri, Strynar, Santos shine at Boston Holiday Challenge | Local Sports | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-indoor-track-nortons-raneri-strynar-santos-shine-at-boston-holiday-challenge/article_e2614c76-d7cd-5a61-a2af-d316852c057b.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/h-s-indoor-track-nortons-raneri-strynar-santos-shine-at-boston-holiday-challenge/article_e2614c76-d7cd-5a61-a2af-d316852c057b.html |
Nancy Elizabeth Dixon, 90
Nancy Elizabeth (Boissière) Dixon, 90, passed away peacefully on Saturday, Dec. 17, 2022 at Benchmark Senior Living in Norwood.
Born on July 21, 1932, in Boston, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Patricia (Kughler) Boissière. She graduated from Brighton High School in 1948.
A longtime resident of Foxboro, she worked for the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds in Dedham for nearly 34 years.
Nancy was an avid New England Patriots fan, loved her time on the beach in Falmouth, and “fine dining.” A loving and devoted mother and grandmother, she most enjoyed spending time with her family.
Loving mother of Ken Dixon and his wife Connie of Mansfield, Paul Dixon and his husband Edwin Perlmutter of Brighton, and the late Michael Dixon, and his wife Susan of Attleboro. Devoted grandmother of Lindsay Dixon of Waltham, Brett Dixon and his wife Abbey Newkirk of Salem, Allison Dixon of Mansfield, Courtney Haggerty and her husband Ryan of Pawtucket, and Brittany Dixon of Attleboro. Sister of the late Charles Boissière, Jr.
Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend a celebration of Nancy’s life on Saturday, Jan. 7, at 10 AM at the Roberts and Sons Funeral Home, 30 South Street, Foxboro.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the New England Center and Home for Homeless Veterans, 120 Court Street, Boston, MA 02108 (nechv.org/donations/tribute-giving/). To send an online condolence, please visit the funeral home website at www.robertsnadsonsfuneralhome.com.
Nancy Elizabeth Dixon
Charles Boissiere
Brett Dixon | 2022-12-28T18:37:34Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Nancy Elizabeth Dixon, 90 | Obituaries | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/foxboro_reporter/obituaries/nancy-elizabeth-dixon-90/article_48ffb14a-7cb6-57d7-9311-29ffcddf2aa7.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/foxboro_reporter/obituaries/nancy-elizabeth-dixon-90/article_48ffb14a-7cb6-57d7-9311-29ffcddf2aa7.html |
Foxboro Youth Football and Cheerleading seeking volunteers
Foxboro Youth Football and Cheerleading is looking for some energetic and enthusiastic people to fill open positions on its board of directors for 2023. Current openings are for secretary and two at-large positions that will assist other board members with their duties. This is an ideal opportunity for a parent or guardian to be more involved with their children, although people without children are also welcome. Elections take place at our January meeting. Contact Doug Suess at dougsuess33@yahoo.com if you are interested. | 2022-12-29T00:30:19Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Foxboro Youth Football and Cheerleading seeking volunteers | Sports | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/foxboro_reporter/sports/foxboro-youth-football-and-cheerleading-seeking-volunteers/article_417adb04-98eb-5045-972a-815041af2bee.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/foxboro_reporter/sports/foxboro-youth-football-and-cheerleading-seeking-volunteers/article_417adb04-98eb-5045-972a-815041af2bee.html |
Boyden Library is hosting a new Spice Club program.
New at Boyden Library: Spice club
Do you love cooking and want to try some new spices and recipes? Then join Boyden Library’s new Spice Club!
Each month we will feature a different spice for participants to take and try at home.
Each kit contains a sample of the spice, two new recipes from A to Z World Food database (a Boyden Library card is required to access this database), and a brief history of the spice.
January spice is Turmeric, which will be available all day on Tuesday, Jan. 10.
Go to boydenlibrary.org/calendar to register.
TEA AND BOOK TALKJoin us every other Wednesday morning this winter to sip some tea and talk about some of our favorite books. The next session will be held on Jan. 11 at 11 a.m.
A sneak peek of a few new bestsellers will also be presented at each session.
Held in the Community Meeting Room.
DROP IN TECH HELPDo you need one-on-one help with a device (iPhone, iPad, e-reader, laptop, etc.) you recently bought or acquired, or maybe you just have a basic technology question? T
hen stop into the library on Thursdays, beginning Jan. 12 at 11 a.m., and Libby will walk you through it!
CRAFT NIGHT WITH TRACIJoin us for a fun craft night with Traci to make snow- covered mason jars and snowflakes on Thursday, Jan. 12 at 6:30 p.m..
This program is for adults 18+ and registration is required.
To register go to boydenlibrary.org/calendar.
Sponsored by Friends of Boyden Library.
HENRY THE JUGGLER, AGES 3+Henry the Juggler (AKA Henry Lappen) is wanted! He is wanted by audiences everywhere for his zany attempts to defy the laws of gravity.
He juggles any number of balls, clubs, rings, members of the audience...He balances strange items on the tip of his nose. Everything is accomplished wordlessly as Henry uses body language (and road signs!) to express himself.
Caution: Henry is known to use innocent bystanders in his act. The 10:30 a.m. show is for ages 3+, and the 2 p.m. show is for ages 6+. Both shows will be held on Thursday, Dec. 29.
Please go to boyenlibrary.org/calendar and register for the appropriate session.
TEEN ADVISORY BOARDFRIDAY, DEC. 30 AT 3:30 P.M.
A meeting for teens ages 12 to 18 and Boyden Library to work together to provide what teens would like to see and have provided in all aspects of their space and programming will be held on Friday, Dec. 30 at 3:30 p.m..
Email Jennifir with any questions at jhuston@sailsinc.org
VIRTUAL TEEN PROGRAMEnjoy a special evening on Wednesday, Jan. 4 at 7 p.m. with two of the country’s top young adult authors as Maureen Johnson (Nine Liars) is interviewed by Jennifer Lynn Barnes (The Final Gambit), in this Zoom webinar.
Register directly on Zoom tinyurl.com/2ttfr49p
Hosted by the Tewksbury Public Library, in collaboration with dozens of Massachusetts public libraries. Please note this program is open to both adults and teens.
TEEN BOOK CLUBTeens meet the first or second Saturday of every month to discuss the current book! The next meeting will be on Saturday, Jan. 7 at 1 p.m.
We will be discussing “The Rumor Game” by Dhonielle Clayton on Jan. 7.
Copies of the book can be picked up at the Adult Circulation Desk.
Snacks will be provided.
MADDEN TOURNAMENTTeens ages 12 to 18 are invited to join the Boyden Library at Helix eSports at Patriot Place for good food and Madden Tournament on Sunday, Jan. 8 at 4 p.m.
Helix eSports located at 23 Patriot Place, Foxboro.
YETI LUMINARIA, AGES 12-18Join Pop Up Art School on Friday, Jan. 13 at 3:30 p.m. to craft a cute yeti with air dry clay. Make the body from a pinch pot and hand build arms, horns and a toothy smile. Glowing from within is a battery-operated candle that illuminates the face. Patrons will paint the yeti before they leave the program. Battery-operated candle included!
Go to boydenlibrary.org/calendar for more programs!
Library Hours:Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday 1 to 5 p.m.
Holiday Hours: Closed Sunday, Jan. 1 and Monday, Jan. 2. Regular hours will resume Tuesday, Jan. 3. Call Adult Services at 508-543-1245. Youth Services can be reached at 508-543-1246.
Be sure to take advantage of the many digital resources that can be found at www.boydenlibrary.org. A library card is required to access these services. Visit our Facebook page at facebook.com/Boyden Library for updated programs and services. | 2022-12-29T03:02:28Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | New at Boyden Library: Spice club | Around Town | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/foxboro_reporter/rail/around_town/new-at-boyden-library-spice-club/article_84b347e9-9ed0-5502-986b-28563c72d1c2.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/foxboro_reporter/rail/around_town/new-at-boyden-library-spice-club/article_84b347e9-9ed0-5502-986b-28563c72d1c2.html |
Norton man arrested in drug raid last summer sentenced to six months in jail
Police display bags of suspected fentanyl they say was seized from a Norton couple on Wednesday.
NORTON POLICE PHOTO
Kris Hampe
NORTON — A local man has been sentenced to jail after pleading guilty to narcotics trafficking charges stemming from a drug raid at his apartment last summer.
Kris Hampe, 60, of Norton Glen Apartments off Route 123, was sentenced in Attleboro District Court earlier this month to six months of a one-year jail term.
The balance of the term was suspended by Judge Edmund Mathers for two years with probation.
Hampe and his wife, Cheryl Hampe, 67, were arrested in August after a three-month undercover investigation.
Cheryl Hampe’s case is still pending.
Police executed search warrants for the Hampes’ vehicle and their apartment. Detectives found nothing in the apartment but seized 64 bags of suspected fentanyl weighing 32 grams from a bag in the car with an estimated street value off $3,000, according to police.
Prosecutors recommended Kris Hampe serve one year of a maximum 2 ½-year jail sentence while his lawyer asked that he be released with the four months he spent in jail deemed served.
Norton couple arrested on fentanyl trafficking charges after undercover drug probe
NORTON — Police have arrested a local couple following a three-month undercover drug investigation and seized suspected fentanyl with an estim…
Cheryl Hampe | 2022-12-29T03:02:40Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Norton man arrested in drug raid last summer sentenced to six months in jail | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/norton-man-arrested-in-drug-raid-last-summer-sentenced-to-six-months-in-jail/article_c0ebd294-b86e-5935-b5aa-1bb270eaec99.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/norton-man-arrested-in-drug-raid-last-summer-sentenced-to-six-months-in-jail/article_c0ebd294-b86e-5935-b5aa-1bb270eaec99.html |
Top 10 of 2022: Drought, PFAS chemicals plagued Attleboro area communities
Mansfield residents wait in their vehicles Monday for a free water distribution station to open at the town DPW yard.
A free water distribution station was set up at the Mansfield DPW yard in early September for residents who were advised to stop using the town water due to E. coli bacteria contamination. Above, DPW worker Steven Copparini talks with a driver.
A North Attleboro DPW employee loads a vehicle with a case of water as residents lined up on Sept. 22 on streets approaching the DPW yard after an advisory was issued to boil water.
The Hoppin Hill Reservoir in North Attleboro shows the extreme effects of this summer’s drought in a photo taken July 22.
SUN CHRONICLE photo
In 2022, area residents likely gained a better appreciation of how precious their water supply is.
From a serious drought that began in early summer and stretched into fall to bacteria and PFAS chemical contamination in several communities, it was a challenging and inconvenient year for water customers and their suppliers.
The drought prompted area communities to implement and/or strengthen outdoor water restrictions for months to ensure there was enough water for essential uses such as drinking, cooking and firefighting.
PFAS chemicals, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances found in many consumer products, have been found in the water in Attleboro and several area towns, leading to costly treatment plans.
Mansfield, North Attleboro and Plainville, which gets some of its water from North Attleboro, experienced bacterial contamination of their water in September. Each town provided bottled water during the water crises.
Attleboro was forced to ban outdoor water use by homes and businesses as the drought worsened, and warnings and fines had to be issued because of the seriousness of the water shortage, which was due to lack of rainfall.
Attleboro is planning a filtration system for removal of PFAS from city water.
North Attleboro also has been dealing with that issue.
“The drought hit North Attleboro a bit less than some other communities as we have number of wells in different parts of town, though it was difficult at times to keep the storage tanks full with Adamsdale well down for PFAS removal upgrades,” DPW Director Mark Hollowell said by email.
That well project is about six months behind schedule due to supply chain issues.
“The contractor has done all they can, but we are waiting on critical Programming Logic Controllers and some other items,” Hollowell said. “It looks like April 1 is the new target for operation of that well.”
Unlike the prolonged drought and ongoing PFAS situation, North Attleboro’s water crisis with E. coli contamination lasted just over a day in late September. It prompted a boil water advisory.
“The E. coli scare was just that, but it should remind people that drinking water is an important resource,” Hollowell said. “The source of the contamination...was likely from surface water (excess rain in the days prior to the incident) mixing with animal feces and getting into our raw water.”
“Our treated water never tested positive as the water is treated with chlorine at the plant,” Hollowell said. “We are working on a project to allow a longer contact time with the chlorine to give a greater assurance that the drinking water coming from the plant is always safe. This process is typically used for surface water supplies, but will be an added dose of protection.”
The DPW director pointed out the cost of water is still a bargain considering its importance and compared to other products.
“Currently our drinking water is about .54 cents per gallon which is the lowest among the 14 surrounding communities,” Hollowell said. “Unfortunately, these PFAS removal projects and other mandates will affect the rates of the enterprise fund. But to put it in perspective, if our rates were to double, it would still only be about 1 cent per gallon.”
Mansfield’s E. coli contamination broke at an inopportune time — over a weekend, and sparked a townwide response in mid-September. Bottled water was provided as a boil water order was issued for four days.
The town also recently opened a new multi-million dollar water treatment plant to tackle the PFAS problem.
In Norton, its water system fared better than many others.
“As far as the drought goes, we have been dealing with lack of water here in Norton for many years, not specifically always just drought related, so as operators we are well trained on the operation of our system in times of stress,” Water and Sewer Superintendent Frank Fournier said in an email. “Our residents are aware for the most part that we have a permanent restriction prohibiting sprinklers and irrigation systems so that helps us out a lot with lowered water demand.”
“Any severity of a drought can have long lasting effects on the wells, the water distribution system, and even on the operators all of which are required to work long hours to maintain our systems,” Fournier said. “Droughts can and often do have negative effects on water quality.”
Water conservation went a long way to help, the superintendent noted.
“The importance of water conservation is obvious to most when they don’t have the water they need when they want it,” Fournier said.
Norton has a fairly new water treatment plant and is now working toward getting new wells.
“We are in the final stages of replacing one of our largest wells,” Fournier said, noting it’s one of three wells that will be replaced. “All have been aging poorly for some time now. Once these new wells are on line we plan to use Well 1 as an emergency backup only.”
That is the well that has had manganese readings that have required water officials to issue public disclosure notices.
“The water at this source before it enters the distribution system has a manganese level higher than the action level. Because this is to remain an active source no matter how much or little we use it MassDEP requires the notice to go out,” Fournier explained. “We have already lowered use at this location, because of this and because the system is blended between all of our other water supply facilities.
“Water quality results throughout the distribution system have shown manganese levels well below the action level for over a year now,” Fournier said.
Norton doesn’t currently have a PFAS problem that needs to be addressed.
“We have been very lucky with our PFAS numbers, and we have not exceeded like other surrounding towns have. Although I’m sure it is inevitable, especially if the limits are lowered again,” Fournier said. “It’s very hard to understand why individual states like Massachusetts chose to go with such a drastically lower PFAS limit compared to where the federal limits are set right from the start.”
“It would have made much more sense to start off at the federal limit then slowly tighten the requirements,” Fournier said. “This would have allowed towns to get funding in place and prepare, not to mention staying away from having to post public notices which ruin customer confidence. Not to mention these public notices costs thousands of dollars each time they are required to be printed and mailed out, money that could have been put towards the solution.”
Foxboro is also striving to tackle its PFAS problem.
“Foxboro Water is planning for the future, by studying treatment options, and doing the needed prep work before a plant that can remove it can be designed,” Water Superintendent Robert Worthley said.
The town is on the State Revolving Fund list for doing design work for the plant.
“At this time it is not known if there will be any loan forgiveness to help with the costs,” Worthley said.
While E. coli can be an issue “almost everywhere, fortunately it has not been an issue in Foxboro,” he said. “Foxboro Water has had training and discussions of our Emergency Response Plan, to help plan for those issues should they occur.”
Drought or no drought, more summers of outdoor water restrictions are expected.
“I know that water restrictions are likely to be more stringent in future summers, not from lack of water in Foxboro, but from regulations,” Worthley said. “The regulations that affect water withdrawals in Foxboro have been linked to levels of declared drought in Massachusetts, and those regulations are much stricter than in the past.”
If anything, area residents have learned a valuable lesson about water the past year.
“There is an old saying that you don’t value water until the well runs dry,” Worthley said. “Perhaps that still holds true.”
Frank Fournier
Mark Hollowell | 2022-12-29T05:22:05Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Top 10 of 2022: Drought, PFAS chemicals plagued Attleboro area communities | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/top-10-of-2022-drought-pfas-chemicals-plagued-attleboro-area-communities/article_5c83f876-e3b2-5e06-a6bf-3b15e92e6a5d.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/top-10-of-2022-drought-pfas-chemicals-plagued-attleboro-area-communities/article_5c83f876-e3b2-5e06-a6bf-3b15e92e6a5d.html |
H.S. BOYS HOCKEY: Mansfield falls despite late push
The Mansfield High boys hockey team celebrates Cody Gordon’s goal in the first period of its game against Shrewsbury High Wednesday night at Foxboro Sports Center.
FOXBORO — The Mansfield High boys hockey team came up just short of forcing overtime against Shrewsbury High on Wednesday night, losing 5-4 at Foxboro Sports Center.
With two minutes to go, Hornets netminder Josh Hussey was pulled for the extra skater as Mansfield poured shots on net with time ticking away while down two scores.
The Hornets pulled the game to within one at the minute mark, getting a goal from James Warren off a deflection to make it 5-4. Following a Shrewsbury clear that nearly hit the still empty net, the Hornets sent all six skaters at the goal with under 20 seconds to go.
From just outside the crease, Mansfield’s Brendan Vokey narrowly missed a score with the net open, missing by a foot. The shot proved to be the final play of the game as the puck went around the end boards and away from the crease as time expired.
“A couple of bounces didn’t go our way, but the team plays real well together,” Mansfield head coach Mark O’Brien said. “Just to have us in a position, pull the goalie and get one, and then some shots at the end where we might have been able to put one in.”
The Hornets battled through the first period, allowing the first goal at 11:17 but getting one back on the power play off the tape of Cody Gordon with 7:31 to go. Declan Foley then scored on a shot from the blue line at 5:06 to give Mansfield the lead, but allowed a score on a rush to end the period with 3.5 left on the board to even the score.
“Coming out of the first, killing two major penalties, we were just happy to come out 2-2 and hopefully carry through to where we can put pressure on them,”
Notably the Hornets were down a guy early in the game with second-line winger Brendan Flynn taking two five-minute major penalties — something subject to an ejection. His removal with under four minutes to go in the first period was a tough one, but provided a next-man-up opportunity for Mansfield’s skaters.
“We’ve got very talented kids who stepped up. James Warren, he’s a talented freshman. These kids have rotated through the lines quite a bit,” O’Brien said. “We’re all playing a system so they so they can all step in. Losing Flynn, that’s tough because he’s a high-energy guy. Warren filled in great.”
Both sides played even through the third period, going scoreless to keep the score 2-2. In the third period, Mansfield opened up with a goal at 13:08 as Cody Gordon put one home with a delayed penalty coming.
Shrewbury then ran off back-to-back scores to make it a 5-3 contest with 3:01 remaining in regulation. Despite the loss, O’Brien said the comeback effort and never-quit attitude
“It really speaks to their resiliency. We’re a much better team than we were in our first game,” O’Brien said. “These guys are buying into the team concept and are playing for each other. I think we’re going to be a very difficult team to play against, despite our youth.
“It’s a difficult loss to come away with, but it’s a lot to build on,” O’Brien said. | 2022-12-29T05:22:42Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | H.S. BOYS HOCKEY: Mansfield falls despite late push | Sports | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/h-s-boys-hockey-mansfield-falls-despite-late-push/article_43c41b3f-7d91-5af7-b61d-263001c1d8ed.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/h-s-boys-hockey-mansfield-falls-despite-late-push/article_43c41b3f-7d91-5af7-b61d-263001c1d8ed.html |
Foxboro Fire Department has been recognized for innovation.
Foxboro Fire department lauded for innovation
Foxboro Fire and Rescue will be among a handful of civic agencies recognized for innovation when the Massachusetts Municipal Association hosts its annual meeting and convention in Boston next month.
Town Manager William Keegan last week announced the fire department will be honored for undertaking an emergency response risk analysis that ultimately led to new guidelines for wearing protective clothing and other gear.
Keegan said the process commenced roughly six months ago after information surfaced that indicated fire retardant chemicals used in manufacturing so-called “turnout gear” pose a cancer risk.
While firefighters have long been considered more susceptible than the general public to different forms of cancer, particularly mesothelioma, more recent data suggests that chemicals embedded in protective clothing — particularly the heavy overcoats worn by firefighters for generations — are carcinogenic.
“Obviously that equipment protects us, but it’s also an exposure,” Fire Chief Michael Kelleher said during a year-end briefing for selectmen on Dec, 20. “The challenge is gauging that middle ground — when do we put on the turnout gear and when is it safe not to wear it.”
Hoping to minimize occupational health risks, Kelleher said department managers worked with the local firefighters’ union over the past year to analyze different types of emergency responses and develop internal guidelines that determine when protective gear should be worn.
Based on these new standards, firefighters now wear turnout gear only when confronted with live fire scenarios, such as building or car fires. Gear is stowed aboard fire department vehicles and can be quickly accessed should conditions change at the scene, Kelleher said.
“It’s an issue industry-wide and a lot of people are trying to figure out how to address it,” he added.
Following that same review, Foxboro Fire & Rescue also revised a long-standing policy of dispatching an engine truck along with an ambulance to every medical response, in favor of now sending just an ambulance to low-level medical calls.
“We preserve that resource, save the wear and tear on the vehicle and just send the ambulance,” Kelleher told selectmen.
Such initiatives were possible only because Foxboro gained access to more specific information about emerging situations through its participation in the SEMRECC regional E-911 consortium, he added.
This partnership has proven beneficial in numerous ways, Kelleher said — such as enabling first responders to swiftly locate a mountain biker who fell and shattered her ankle in the F. Gilbert Hills State Forest earlier this month.
According to Kelleher, the consortium employs software that generates latitude and longitude coordinates from cell phone transmissions which are accurate to within ten feet, directing rescuers to injured parties even in darkness or if callers become disoriented.
“It was a really good outcome,” he said. “Five years ago, these calls were a nightmare because we were trying to figure out where the person was. Now we can walk right to them with no issue or fanfare.”
According to Kelleher, the fire department responded to approximately 300 motor vehicle accidents per year in 2022, with 10 fatalities — mostly on Interstates 95 and 495.
“We have serious motor vehicle accidents out there,” he said, adding that first responders from Foxboro often arrive on scene before state police units which cover a wider area. “It’s dangerous out there, especially at night.”
Also on hand for the briefing, Assistant Chief Thomas Buckley, who is responsible for human resources and staffing in addition to serving as liaison to Gillette Stadium, said the department bid farewell to several veteran firefighters over the past year.
Retirements in 2022 included captains David Healy and Edward Noonan, as well as firefighters Timothy Cotter and Michael Whelehan, who ranged between 25 to nearly 40 years of service.
New hires included firefighters Harry McComb, Jeff Eszlari, Alyssa Marcoux and Keith Hamilton, Alex Noonan, the son of Edward Noonan who finished first in his class at the fire academy.
In addition, Buckley is overseeing an accreditation process which, if completed successfully, would make Foxboro Fire & Rescue the first fully accredited municipal agency in Massachusetts — the only other being Westover Air Force Base.
Deputy Fire Chief David Laracy, who oversees inspections and permitting, told selectmen the landmark Schneider Electric campus on Neponset Avenue is currently being decommissioned — a two-year program of abating asbestos, removing chemicals and preparing the property for future use.
“It’s a massive building,” Laracy said of the original Foxboro Company headquarters, while recommending that town officials tour the site to familiarize themselves with potential future options. “That building has been in constant use since 1894.”
Laracy also has been pivotally involved in the complex, multi-phase north end zone reconfiguration at Gillette Stadium, which includes a 104,000-square-foot expansion to house administrative offices.
He acknowledged the project has been especially time-consuming for department personnel, with as many as seven firefighters on the job site at any one time.
“The biggest challenge on this is that we’ve had six fires [and several medical emergencies] already, so our personnel have proven that they’re needed up there,” Laracy said.
Finally, Deputy Chief Thomas Kenvin, who also serves as the town’s public health nurse, reported the department responded to 2,643 requests for emergency medical services in 2022 — roughly two-thirds of which involved advanced life support.
Kenvin suggested that workforce shortages in the healthcare industry, as well as the June 2020 flooding which prompted the closure of Norwood Hospital, have created increased demand for town ambulance services, including mutual aid requests from nearby communities.
Much of that volume has been redirected to other regional hospitals, including Sturdy Memorial in Attleboro, Good Samaritan in Brockton and Milford Regional Hospital — all requiring longer medical transports to increasingly busy emergency rooms.
Wrapping up the lengthy briefing, Kelleher pledged to continue seeking alternative revenue streams to help offset cost and improve efficiencies in department operations.
Along these lines, the chief touted a novel program that utilizes in-house personnel to maintain and repair fire apparatus for outside fire departments. Since being launched 16 months ago, the program has generated a $100,000 profit after overtime and other related costs.
Following the presentation, Selectman Dennis Keefe said the local department had set a bar for other agencies to emulate.
“The way you’ve diversified the department is just remarkable,” Keefe said.
Follow JEFF PETERSON | 2022-12-29T07:32:25Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Foxboro Fire department lauded for innovation | Local News | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/foxboro_reporter/news/local_news/foxboro-fire-department-lauded-for-innovation/article_2c064a07-a8a8-5a32-9f0e-1082fc400b28.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/foxboro_reporter/news/local_news/foxboro-fire-department-lauded-for-innovation/article_2c064a07-a8a8-5a32-9f0e-1082fc400b28.html |
Of Note: Patriot Place to host New Year's celebration
Patriot Place will host a family-friendly New Year’s Eve First Night Celebration featuring fireworks, ice sculptures, live entertainment, giveaways and more from 4 to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 31.
Guests are invited to ring in the new year with family and friends at Patriot Place, with festivities, including giveaways, temporary glitter tattoos, outdoor movies and special photo opportunities, culminating with a fireworks display at 7 p.m.
Starting at 4 p.m., guests can enjoy live music from D77 Productions, view ice sculptures by Fitzy Snowman and have their portraits drawn by caricature artists.
There will also be special appearances from Pat Patriot and the Patriots cheerleaders, and a roving magician and light-up stilt walker before the festivities end.
The celebration will take place at the Dean College Stage, located outside Citizen Crust and Bar Louie.
For a full listing and schedule of all New Year’s Eve festivities at Patriot Place, visit www.patriot-place.com/nye-celebrations/.
Orpheum makes donation appeal
The Marilyn Rodman Performing Arts Center is making an appeal for donations to reach its goal of raising $10,000 by the end of the year for the theater’s Community Access Fund.
The fund makes theater more accessible to those with less resources.
It subsidizes the cost of performing on the theater stage for organizations, performing groups, small businesses and individuals with limited budgets.
And it provides free tickets to groups and individuals in need.
As of Dec. 16, the theater had raised $5,185 for the fund.
Donations can be made online at orpheum.org/donate.html; through Venmo, where the theater can be found under @marilynrodmanpac; or by check. Checks can be to mailed to MRPAC, 1 School St., Foxboro, MA 02035
Christmas tree pick-up scheduled
The annual Christmas Tree pick-up in Foxboro will take place this year from Monday, Jan. 3 through Thursday, Jan. 13.
Trees should be placed curbside with all ornaments, tinsel, garland and wreaths removed.
Tree pick-up will take place on regular trash day.
There will be no collection of tree stands, bags or wreaths.
Neponset Choral Society sets open rehearsals
Neponset Choral Society invites area residents to try it out by coming to its free open rehearsals on Jan. 9 and Jan. 16 at 7:30 p.m. at Bethany Congregational Church, Rockhill St., Foxboro.
For more information, email info@ncschorus.org. | 2022-12-29T07:32:43Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Of Note: Patriot Place to host New Year's celebration | Around Town | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/foxboro_reporter/rail/around_town/of-note-patriot-place-to-host-new-years-celebration/article_03210ae0-8413-5049-a6e6-5bd2b09674e6.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/foxboro_reporter/rail/around_town/of-note-patriot-place-to-host-new-years-celebration/article_03210ae0-8413-5049-a6e6-5bd2b09674e6.html |
strichfiguren/stock.adobe.com
The headlines of the 2022 elections focused, of course, on control of the House, Senate and governors’ mansions.
But the subhead — easy to miss — was a wave of reforms, particularly for ranked-choice voting. Nevada led the way, passing a ballot measure that will institute the practice across the entire state if it passes again in two years. Nine other cities and counties also voted on voting reform, with RCV passing in seven of them.
Christine Todd Whitman, a 1968 graduate of Wheaton College in Norton, is a former Republican governor of New Jersey and co-chair of the Forward Party. She write this for The Fulcrum, which covers what’s making democracy dysfunctional and efforts to fix our governing systems. | 2022-12-29T07:32:49Z | www.thesunchronicle.com | Commentary: Democrats and Republicans want the status quo, but we need to move Forward | Columns | thesunchronicle.com | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/columns/commentary-democrats-and-republicans-want-the-status-quo-but-we-need-to-move-forward/article_7803ee08-2573-508e-afd1-b0df9d70f9b1.html | https://www.thesunchronicle.com/opinion/columns/commentary-democrats-and-republicans-want-the-status-quo-but-we-need-to-move-forward/article_7803ee08-2573-508e-afd1-b0df9d70f9b1.html |
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