HELP SAVE AMES POND

(Robert Germain photo)

H1N1 Swine Flu Shot Clinics/Vaccine Info

STOUGHTON ELECTION CALENDAR

Watch this Important Segment On Blip.TV: Maybe you can save a life!
http://www.blip.tv/file/2346751/KABOB HOUSE OPENS
(read our REVIEW) Memorial Day Photos

Story of Local Hero Sam Angert from Mike Pazyra (Video)

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SORRY, YOU MISSED:

 

 

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ROASTERS INCLUDE POLICE CHIEF PAUL SHASTANY, SELECTMAN DAVID "SPANKY" SOUSA, AND FORMER TOWN MANAGER PHIL FARRINGTON

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MEMORIAL DAY 2014

	Photos by Mark Snyder

Jeff Pickette's Memorial Day Gallery

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GOING BALD FOR A CAUSE

Christopher Corbin, the son-in-law of Dennis and Lorraine McCarthy (the dynamic former duo behind the success of Friends for Seniors), is trying to raise $2,000 for the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute through the Be Bold, Be Bald Foundation. As he tells me, “I will be physically shaving my head. However the organization mails everyone who signs up a ‘Bald Cap’, so that you could still participate without going completely bald yourself.” 

Lorraine tells me that she thought she might have lost Dennis to cancer in February on their 39th anniversary (when he was put into a medical coma), but the folks at Dana Farber are really helping him in his battle against liver and lung cancer, Incidentally, he never drank or smoked, either. If you would like to make a donation, go to Chris’ page at http://beboldbebald.org/profile/3433.  For information, contact Chris via email at christopher.a.corbin@outlook.com. We send our prayers to Dennis for a full recovery. 

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ANNE HAVLIN HONORED LAST WEEKEND

The first Anne Havlin Memorial Blood and Food Drive was a huge success last weekend. Her family and friends gathered in Immaculate Conception Hall to collect food for the pantry she once ran---St. Anthony’s Free Market Food Pantry. They also collected blood for Children’s Hospital. Her widower Tom was there, along with her daughters Shauna, Kerry, Erin, and Molly. And, many friends attended to help out, as well. Molly Mills told Snyder’s Stoughton that it “was a weekend of many blessings.” The grand totals: 79 people came to Immaculate Conception Church to donate blood. Of these folks, 55 pints were collected and will go to the Dana Farber, Brigham & Women’s, and Children’s Hospital blood bank. 26 GIANT boxes of food were collected and donated to St. Anthony’s. Adds Mills: “Many thanks and love to all who supported our efforts.”

(photo and story by Mark Snyder)

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BLUE CROSS HELPS OUT OLD COLONY YMCA

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts employee volunteers and Old Colony YMCA-Stoughton staff cleared the woods and created a Story Book trail. The trail will be filled with Story Book trivia and lead to a newly built library yurt in the woods – encouraging kids to embrace a love of literacy. More than 3,000 Blue Cross associates, known as BlueCrew, volunteered all together on one day at 39 different community sites across the state during Blue Cross’ third annual Service Day — including the Old Colony YMCA-Stoughton for the third year in a row. In year one Blue Cross volunteers helped the Y build an outdoor amphitheater; year two they created a games area, and this year Blue Cross volunteers helped create a story book trail and library space.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts employee volunteers give the picnic tables at the Old Colony YMCA-Stoughton a splash of color. More than 3,000 Blue Cross associates, known as BlueCrew, volunteered all together on one day at 39 different community sites across the state during Blue Cross’ third annual Service Day — including the Old Colony YMCA-Stoughton for the third year in a row. In year one Blue Cross volunteers helped the Y build an outdoor amphitheater; year two they created a games area, and this year Blue Cross volunteers helped create a story book trail and library space.

 

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STOUGHTON COMES OUT TO HONOR JAKE

The community once again came out in full force to honor Stoughton High 2009 graduate Jake Hoffman, a Stoughton resident who perished in a fire January 21, 2013 while in his senior year at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst.

Frank Faria, who graduated with Jake, organized a fundraiser called Kick It 4 Jake, which was held Sunday at the Stoughton Youth Soccer League fields on West Street. Faria said it turned out beyond his wildest optimistic dreams. “We had 160 participants, and another 150 people come out to watch or help out. It appears that we took in about $9000. We’re going to hold this event every year,” he told About Town.

The tournament raised enough money to provide a scholarship (or two) to a Stoughton High graduating senior soccer player. Everyone that played received a T Shirt and enjoyed a meal at the Sons of Italy Hall.

The event drew a large crowd of Friends of Jake. It also drew his family, who actively participated. His sister Nichole and brother Riordan played on a team that went to the finals. His aunts, uncles and cousins lined the fields.

His parents, Dave and Anne, were so appreciative of the response in their son’s honor.

Anne told me, “People speak about how ugly our downtown is. But, the people of this town are beautiful. This is truly a wonderful community.”

Faria deserves much credit. Single-handedly, he collected enough donations to produce three tables full of raffle items, and a full table of silent auction items. His mom handled the duties of handing out the winning bids. Donna Madoff manned the T Shirt table. Veronica Lopes was selling raffle tickets. Others sold popcorn, and refreshments, which also supported the charity.

The weather cooperated, as well. It seemed like it would rain, but it held off. And, the temperature was cool enough to be comfortable for those who ran around on the soccer field. While Jake was at Stoughton High, he captained the soccer team, and wore number “4”. That number was printed on all the shirts.

Faria wanted to thank all of the sponsors of the Jake Hoffman Memorial Soccer Tournament. They included Kidsports, Town Spa Pizza, North Atlantic Medical, Living the Dream, Apex Auto Body, Vargas & Vargas Insurance, Cromwell Consulting, DMB Painting, Sons of Italy, Jake’s Wayback Burgers, Ruggiero Bros., Maltby Tree Service, Beantown Diner, Wizard Computer Services, Zachary’s Breakfast, Sign-A-Rama of Walpole, Stoughton Pumping, and Piesco Sporting Goods in Easton.

Those who knew Jake Hoffman loved the kid. You couldn’t help but like him. And, the hundreds of people, young and old, who turned out on Sunday were a living monument to a young man whose legacy will be eternal. Now, it is assured, that even more graduates of Stoughton High, will get a check for college, with Jake’s name attached. To a man who did so much for charity while he was here on Earth, he will continue to do so from his perch in Heaven.

One of Jake’s friends from college is organizing a golf tournament to raise funds for a scholarship in his name at Umass Amherst. We’ll let our readers know about that, as soon as the details are ironed out.

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BURGER EATING CHAMP

 

Jake’s Wayback Burgers held a Triple Burger Eating Contest on Saturday, June 15. The burger eatery, located at the corner of Washington Street and Central Streets, was trying to drum up a little publicity, according to owner Amantino Lopes. Six entrants competed for the prize of an Ipad Mini. Ryan Coughlin, Austin Barbosa, Andrew Trainer, Joshua Barbour, Dalia Lopes, and Craig Beaulieu.

After some ferocious acts of carnivorous activities, the winner emerged----Austin Barbosa! He took home the Apple gadget, and a belly full of beef.

(top photo: Mark Snyder
bottom photos, including Champion Barbosa, by Terry Schneider)

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CIVIL WAR COMES BACK TO STOUGHTON

Following the success of last year's Civil War event in Stoughton, which was part of the 2012 Stoughton Reads Together program, the Town of  Stoughton  held its Second Civil War Remembrance & Parade last Saturday, June 15.

It took place from noon to 4 p.m. at various downtown locations, including the Stoughton Train Station,  Faxon  Veterans Memorial Park (on Rt. 27 Park Street across from the Library) and the Stoughton Historical Society building (in Stoughton Center at 6 Park Street.).

It commemorated the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War, with a parade, reenactments, camp, drills, and bayonet and cooking demonstrations.  The Massachusetts 12th Volunteer Regiment, the Norwood Union Brigade, and the U.S. Sanitation Commission were all featured.

The fun started at noon at the Stoughton Train Station, where guests gathered for a reenactment of the presentation of the flag to the 12th Mass. Regiment by Mr. S.C. Phinney (played by David Allen Lambert) in 1861.

At 12:30 p.m., they had a Parade to Faxon Veterans Memorial Park, led by President Lincoln (Bob Grover), Mary Todd Lincoln (Denise Locchiatto), Norwood Union Brigade, U.S. Sanitation Commission, and the 12th Massachusetts Volunteer Re-enactors.

At 1 p.m. (running through 4 p.m.) the Stoughton Historical Society opened their Civil War Display to the public. The U.S. Sanitation Commission displayed period clothing, and discussed health and safety concerns of the day.  

Also at 1 p.m, at Faxon Veterans Memorial Park, they posted colors, had a dress parade, and President Lincoln addressed the troops, followed by bayonet and firing drills, camp life and cooking demonstrations by local reenactors of the Massachusetts 12th Volunteer Regiment, led by Sgt. Mark Nickerson.

From 1:45-2:15 p.m. at the Charles Large Gazebo at Faxon Park, Dwight MacKerron of the Historical Society discussed excerpts from the Civil War Journals of Alfred Edward Waldo and Charles Eaton, describing what these two young Stoughton men endured exactly 150 years ago at Port Hudson and Vicksburg, as part of the Union campaigns to control the entire Mississippi River. 

The short Eaton journal, which was recently published by the Stoughton Historical Society, describes the 18-year-old’s service, including his capture, surrounded by the bodies of dead comrades, beneath the walls of the fort at Port Hudson on June 13, 1863.  

From 2:15-2:45 p.m. inside the Gazebo at Faxon Park, the Old Stoughton Music Society sang songs of the time, under the direction of Renee LeBlanc. Many of the tunes were familiar to the crowd, like "Grand old Flag."

At 3 p.m., also in the Gazebo, President Abraham Lincoln read the Emancipation Proclamation, and then Mark Nickerson read the Honor Roll of Stoughton Civil War Veterans.

The day’s program of events was sponsored by the Stoughton Community Events Committee, Stoughton Historical Society, Stoughton Public Library, and Support Our Library Association (SOLA).

Story and Photos by Mark Snyder

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Mark Steyn Wows Them at Ahavath Torah Congregation

Author and Human Rights Activist

Steyn, Rabbi Hausman, Graham and Snyder

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MEMORIAL DAY FESTIVITIES--A SMASH HIT!

Despite the wet weather on Saturday and Sunday, Memorial Day weekend ceremonies in Stoughton went off without a hitch. The moisture didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of residents paying respect to those who gave their lives in service to their country. In fact, Stoughton's Veterans Agent, Mike Pazyra, told Snyder's Stoughton that the turnout on Saturday, May 25, for the Re-Flagging of Veteran’s Graves, was the largest turnout in all his years in Stoughton . Hundreds of youngsters--many Boy and Girl Scouts--and their parents took part in the effort to retrieve tattered flags from the graves of our deceased veterans. Children and adults handed Pazyra the old flags, and placed new flags on all the veteran’s graves at Holy Sepulcher and Evergreen Cemeteries. The old flags were properly disposed of by the DPW. It was an amazing sight to see (be sure to view my photos in the Gallery). “The veterans and myself were humbled by all the children there,” Pazyra told me, “All the children had smiles. Everything clicked that day. I’m very appreciative of the parents who have instilled this interest and appreciation of veterans in their children.” Volunteers met at 10 a.m. at VFW Post 1646 on Saturday morning, and were assigned locations. They all came back to the VFW after placing the flags, for donuts and coffee.

The Memorial Day Parade stepped off right on time, Monday, May 27-- at 9 a.m. sharp-- from the Department of Public Works building on Central Street. The route took it down Central Street, across Route 138 ( Washington Street) to Holy Sepulcher Cemetery for two ceremonies. From there, the parade went to the Pearl Street Cemetery for another ceremony there. The parade proceeded to Town Hall (at Pearl Street and Porter Streets) where Pazyra hosted a ceremony that drew a large throng of people. The Stoughton High School band was featured, performing the National Anthem, while the San Johns Filarmonica also played a tune. The ceremony at Town Hall included a wreath laying at the Memorial Bell, as well as a touching tribute to all Stoughton residents who have been lost in our country's wars. The bell is rung for each Stoughton veteran who gave his life for his country. The ceremony at Town Hall marked the 60th anniversary of the Korean War, and a quartet of Korean War vets were honored. Rabbi Jonathan Hausman of Ahavath Torah Congregation gave the invocation. Pazyra introduced National Guard 2 nd Lt. Alison Turner, who is the first female officer in the history of the VFW Post 1645. The recent graduate of MA General School of Nursing, was recently elected Jr. Vice Commander at the VFW. Pazra also introduced Sgt. Major Jim Kelly, President of Military Friends. Selectwoman Cynthia Walsh lauded the residents of the town for their great support of the town’s veterans. She spoke of the Town of Beverly, which canceled their Memorial Day Parade because of “a lack of veterans.” She thought that was a lame excuse and pledged, “There will always be a Memorial Day in Stoughton.”

The Parade attracted hundreds of participants, and what appeared to be nearly a thousand spectators down the entire route, and many hundreds at Town Hall. Featured were the VFW Firing Detail and Color Guard, The Civil War Re-enactors veteran's groups, the Stoughton Police and Fire Department, Norfolk County Sheriff’s Department, Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, and other civic groups. Added Pazyra, “I was happy with the participation of town officials especially from the police and fire.”

After the event at Town Hall, the Parade re-formed and moved down Park Street to Faxon Park. Selectman Bob O’Regan gave a speech where he tried to motivate residents to get involved. “Did you vote in the primary and local elections? Will you vote June 25 th for the Senate seat? Take two minutes out of your day and vote.”

School Committee member Dr. Erdem Ural joined Staff Sgt. Jim Kelly and former Veterans Agent Paul Flynn in laying memorial wreaths. The Stoughton High Band also played at Faxon.

The Parade then moved to Evergreen Cemetery, where the SHS band played, and the highlight was Town Moderator Howard Hansen reading the Gettysburg Address, while presenting a copy to the youngest Cub Scout in the crowd, Neil William Gibbons. There were two ceremonies, at the GAR lot and the American Legion Burial Site there.

The official dedication of the new flagpole at the American Legion Burial Site at Evergreen Cemetery was held Monday, at just before noon. Presentations were made to the volunteers that made the largest flagpole in Stoughton possible. Among those honored were: Erica Bucaira, Robert Maltby of Maltby & Co., DPW Superintendent John Batchelder, and representatives of the Evergreen Cemetery Association. A special award was given to Joe Fustolo. The flag pole was dedicated to all U.S. Veterans for their service to God and their country.

There were two Memorial Square Dedications this year, which followed the collation at the VFW. At 1 p.m., the intersection of Pleasant Street and Lincoln Street was dedicated to John O’Hare. He was in the Army in WWII. Adds Pazyra, “He wrote about youth sports for twenty years in this town. I guess you could say he was the Snyder’s Stoughton of his day.”

At 1:45 p.m., the intersection of Park Street and Belmont Avenue was dedicated to Vincent Healy. He was in the Navy during WWI, and was instrumental in the addition to the VFW building. The main hall there is named after him, and has a plaque on the wall. He was involved in that Post for decades, and helped in other veteran causes, according to Pazyra. Bill Shields, a reporter from WBZ TV 4, spoke to WW II vet Leo Foster, and interviewed the Healy family on their 6 p.m. report Monday night, which had Selectman Bob O’Regan featured prominently, reading the proclamation from the Board of Selectmen.

I don’t know how he does it, but it was another extremely successful Memorial Day weekend of celebration and honors pulled off by Pazyra. Give that man a raise!

Memorial Day Photos

PHOTOS OF RE-FLAGGING

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MASS MEMORIES CAME TO STOUGHTON ON MAY 5

Photos by Tom Fitzgerald

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A REAL ESTATE ROAST!

(Watch it on TV! Comcast Channel 9/Verizon Channel 28:

 

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OPERATION KIDS SAFE A BIG SUCCESS!

Kiddie Academy of Stoughton held an Operation KidSafe Child Safety event on Saturday, March 2, and dozens of families came by to enjoy the festivities. The Stoughton Police and Fire Department were on hand, with goodies for the kids. Operation KidSafe took photos and fingerprints of the children using a sophisticated video capture device. Each parent was given a quality 8.5 x 11 printout which can instantly aid the police in case of an emergency.

There was a room of interesting vendors, some twenty in all (some we have pictured.) They included Operation KidSafe, Stoughton Fire Department, Alright Dental, CareCentral Urgent Care,  MassBike, American Cancer Society: Team Bandit Busters, Christine Do of Keller Williams Realty;  Jim Vlahos with Rodan and Fields Dermatology Products; J.F. Trocki Landscaping, Joe Pomfret and Julie Pomfret of Lauzon Mixed Martial Arts; Tim Nguyen of Organo Gold, Elissa Gordon of Paperly; Annie Factor of Annie Bananie; Creative Playthings of Easton; Dirt Dawg Sports and
Susan Bunker of Discovery Toys.

Curious George was there to greet the kids, and everyone was entertained by magician Bryan Lizotte. There was face painting, arts & crafts, and free refreshments, as well. The kids had a wonderful time, and the parent's came away with a little peace of mind for the future.

David Rudnick, owner of the early education center, told Snyder's Stoughton, "I was really pleased with the turnout. We had 165 children fingerprinted. The weather cooperated and the kids had a blast."

(Photos by Mark Snyder. Top left: Curious George & Chrissy Corcoran, Ass't Director of Kiddie Academy of Stoughton. Top right: Brent and Katie Martin after her face painting. Middle Right, Dirt Dawgs Lindsey and Ryan Jasmin. Near bottom on left, Magician Bryan Lizotte. To his right, Wayne from Operation KidSafe. )

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DON'T MISS MURDER AT THE LIBRARY!

 

(photo by Jeff Pickette of Stoughton Patch)

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MASTER PLAN PHASE ONE CLOSING OUT

On Monday evening at the Stoughton Senior Center, the Town of Stoughton’s Master Plan Committee hosted a public meeting to present and receive public comment on the draft vision, goals, and key issues of Phase One of the Town’s new Master Plan. Master Plan Committee Chair Joseph Scardino welcomed the crowd, which filled the large conference room on a cold snowy night. He said, “Thanks for coming despite the weather. It’s nice to see everyone getting involved with the Master Plan Committee.” He then introduced Sue Brown of Brown Walker Planners.

 

Brown said that the Youth Focus Group listed “people and sports” as the best of what Stoughton has to offer. On their importance list, they prioritized shopping, sports and entertainment venues. What needs to be improved? Overwhelmingly, the youth answered, “The schools.”

 

The adults who were part of the focus groups said that Stoughton’s location, public transportation, and town services were the best part. They were least satisfied with Stoughton Center and the lack of town planning. They said what was most needed in town was active and passive recreation, and more retail shopping locations. What’s needed the least? More condos and apartments.

The Forum, titled, “Developing a Vision for Stoughton”, is the second of two major public meetings which is part of the planning process to create a town-wide Master Plan. The Plan will identify policies, regulations and initiatives needed to guide future changes in the community. The consultant team, led by Brown Walker Planners, in conjunction with the Master Plan Committee, has engaged the community residents and business owners in a series of stakeholders interviews, public meetings, and an online survey.

 

The completion of Phase One of the Master Plan will result in a Visioning Report that includes an overview of existing conditions within the town, and a shared vision statement that outlines the community’s desired future. Brown ran through the results of the previous meeting, and invited participants to break into smaller groups for discussion on a number of topics.

 

She was looking for opinions on the “Shared Community Vision”, “Preliminary Goals”, and “Key Issues” that were determined by the previous community meeting.

 

Among the “Shared Community Visions” were having Stoughton be recognized as an inclusive and resilient community, offering an exceptional quality of life to its residents, businesses and visitors. They looked to a future where the Town provided public services and facilities that assure a clean, healthy and safe community; a school system with state-of-the-art facilities, a strong curriculum and exceptional educators; A Stoughton Center that is the municipal, social and cultural heart of the Town; and greater use of public transportation, an extensive network of sidewalks, trails, bike lanes, and re-configured streets that better serve drivers, riders and walkers.

 

They also pictured a future of “Stoughton’s landscaping contributing to its suburban character with a mosaic of natural systems that include open fields, ponds, wetlands, waterways, forests and street trees”; Preserving the Town’s historic buildings and landscapes to provide space for municipal , cultural, recreational and educational programs; Attractive and active business corridors and centers that will provide an array of activity centers, services, jobs, and tax revenues; Neighborhoods that are distinct, yet unified, with varying housing styles, lot sizes, and settlement patterns that serve a diversity of residents; and above all, Stoughton’s sense of community is the Town’s defining quality.

Preliminary goals that were explored included “Suburban Character and Natural Resources”, “Historic Resources”, “Transportation and Circulation”, “Town Center”, “Neighborhoods”, “Economic Development”, “Education”, “Public Service, Facilities and Infrastructure”, “Energy & Sustainability”, and “Community.”

Among the Key Issues, participants overwhelmingly placed the Town’s Image, the Downtown Center, and the Schools at the top of the list. Economic Development, Public Safety, and “Livability” followed closely behind.

 

Scardino said the next step is looking for a consultant for Phase Two, with an emphasis on economic development. Brown said she planned to print out all the feedback, and send it as a report to the Master Plan Committee, who would then present it to the community on the Town Website.

 

Faces in the Crowd included School Committee members Chair Deb Sovinee, Vice Chair and candidate for re-election Joyce Husseini, George Dolinsky and Dr. Erdem Ural. Also in the crowd were Pat McNeil, Carol Brown and Debra Cote, who are all running for school committee. Selectmen Cynthia Walsh and John Anzivino were there. The Stoughton Chamber was represented by Chris Petrie and Terry Schneider. Stoughton Library Director Pat Basler and Karen Hall, Director of the Youth Commission and Council on Aging were also present.

Crowd Included Library Director Pat Basler & School Committee Vice Chair Joyce Husseini (left photo) and Peter Buckley, Jennifer Comeau, and School Committee candidate Debra Cote (right photo)

School Committee candidates Carol Brown (left) and Pat McNeil (right) were there.

Story and Photos by Mark Snyder

 

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Downtown Stoughton Business Owners Breakfast Held

The Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) sponsored a breakfast for downtown business owners, town officials, and interested parties on Friday, January 25 at the Old Colony YMCA in Stoughton. Emily Torres-Cullinane, the Community Liaison for MAPC said, "This is really a time for people to meet. I really enjoyed my walk in downtown Stoughton. Everyone was so friendly! Of particular interest to me was the large percentage of female-owned businesses. I'd estimate half of the owners I met were women. That's a good thing!" Stoughton Town Planner Noreen O'Toole said that "We're here to get to know each other. We are looking to determine the needs of the downtown business owners. This is really a mini-visioning exercise of examining ideas for the downtown."

Marc Racicot of Stoughton, who runs the Land Use Planning Department for MAPC, was also on hand. He's the Chief Planner for our area. Stoughton's new Procurement Officer, Maureen Doherty, offered to help businesses navigate the bidding process for the town, and some free consultation for the State process, as well.

The breakfast was funded from the State money, provided towards mitigation of the South Coast Rail, the two billion dollar collosal waste of taxpayer money to extend the Stoughton Rail to New Bedford & Fall River. (As I've written before, and will write again, it would be cheaper to send every Fall River/New Bedford commuter to Boston in a limo, stocked with champagne and caviar that it is for this unneeded hit on our wallets and our environment.)

Faces In the Crowd: Spotted among the dozens of attendees were Stoughton Police Chief & Actor Paul Shastany; Fire Chief and Beach Hero Mark Dolloff; Planning Board Chairman Joe Scardino; Redevelopment Chair and Vice Chair Carlos Vargas and Forrest Lindwall; Library Director and Actress Pat Basler; Selectman and Actress Cynthia Walsh; and Stoughton Chamber of Commerce Director Terry Schneider.

(photos by Mark Snyder)

 

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"MURDER AT THE LIBRARY": A KILLER PRODUCTION!

READ THE FULL STORY BY JEFF PICKETTE
on PATCH with GREAT PHOTOS

Sam Slayed (Police Chief Paul Shastany) questions The Governator (Mark Snyder)
photo by Sue Hargreaves. Top photo by Jeffrey Pickette

Murder at the Library Volunteers, under the Direction of Dori Frankel:

(Mark Snyder photo)

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Stoughton Chamber
Annual Dinner & Awards

My Page
Patch Coverage

(Photo by Danielle Schneider)

 

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FRIENDS FOR SENIORS BRINGS CHRISTMAS HOME

FULL STORY & PHOTOS

 

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CHAMBER HELPS PJ CAMPAIGN

 

140 business leaders celebrated at the Stoughton Chamber of Commerce Holiday Party Monday night at the Portuguese National Club.  There was entertainment by Chris Zienko from Men in Black DJ service.  Joanne Schneider, the Chamber's membership director, as always, did a fantastic job putting it all together. There was an incredible array of food, from places ranging from Outback to Chinatown, from Stelio's Pizza to Smokey Bones. The Prone Family Foundation dropped $1500, which considerably boosted the Chamber's coffers.  And, Bonnie Policow of the SCC led a collection of new pajamas to be donated to a campaign coordinated by Orange Leaf in Canton.  Her hard work paid off in more than 60 pairs of new pajamas donated by business men and women who attended. The night featured a live auction, silent auction, raffles, dancing---and of course, that amazing food.  It was my pleasure to host the event.  It is my last event as Vice Chairman, which I have served since 2005.  Beth Snell of Randolph Savings Bank takes over as Vice Chairman in January. 

Photos by Danielle Schneider

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SULLIVAN TIRE HANDS OUT WREATHS & CHRISTMAS CHEER

On Saturday morning, December 1, Sullivan Tire on Route 138 gave out Christmas wreaths (they purchased 300 from Canada), coffee, hot chocolate and bakery items as they celebrated Christmas with their customers, and anyone who came in. They set up in a tent in front of the store, and Tara Guinan and Jessica Coonan were handing out the goodies. Pictured at right are Fernando Cabral, Dan Dimaie, Jonathan Torres, Terry Mallory, Bob Parker, and Store Manager George Nash. Sullivan Tire is a member of the Stoughton Chamber of Commerce.

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STOUGHTON CENTER GETS SOME HOLIDAY MAGIC

The area around Stoughton Square got a holiday spruce up, courtesy of a few of our hardy and generous citizens. Dennis and Carlene Walsh of the Stoughton Community Events Committee hung all the Chanukah and Christmas banners around the center of town. former Selectman Joe Mokrisky, Janiece Bruce (Director the Stoughton Public Health Dept./VNA), Maria Simas, Brian Daley, Patty Muradian of Stoughton VNA, and Peter Ventresco of the Stoughton FinCom all went out on Saturday, December 1st, in snow and freezing temperatures and hung all the lights and decorations around the trees and bushes in the area. A giant thanks to all! There's also a beautiful big new Christmas tree, festooned with lights, at the intersection of Park Street and Rt. 139, across from Page's II, in the former abandoned playground. This wonderful tree was presented by the Maltby Tree Company in Stoughton. If you haven't seen it yet, it is worth the ride. A job well done by a local business!

Photos by Mark Snyder

 

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OLD COLONY YMCA WINS AWARD

The Metro South Chamber of Commerce presented the Old Colony YMCA with an Economic Impact Award yesterday (11/14/12) at the Massasoit Conference Center in Brockton. In photo at right is my photo, "Two Vinnies", featuring Old Colony YMCA CEO Vinnie Marturano and Vinnie Lombardo, CEO of Lombardo's Function Facility in East Boston and Randolph.

(Photos by Mark Snyder)

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Stoughton Council on Aging presented
An Appreciation Breakfast for Veterans
on Friday, November 9 at
Stoughton Senior Center

DETAILS & PHOTOS HERE

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Michael Romanuk VFW Post 1645

presented

50th ANNIVERSARY OF THE VIETNAM WAR 1962
VETERAN'S DAY & USMC 237TH BIRTHDAY BASH
Saturday, November 10, 2012

CHECK IT OUT!

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Stoughton Life Teen Holiday Craft Fair

@IMMACULATE CONCEPTION CHURCH HALL122 Canton Street (Rte 27), Stoughton

NOVEMBER 10, 2012

PHOTOS AND STORY

 

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First Congregational Church of Stoughton
United Church of Christ
76 Pierce Street, Stoughton, MA

ANNUAL FALL FAIR
November 10, 2012

Photos (c) 2012 by PMPNetwork, Inc./snydersstoughton.com
by Mark Snyder

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Veterans Day Parade

Sunday, November 11, 2012

The Veterans Day Parade will begin at 10 a.m. sharp from VFW Post 1645 on Washington Street. The parade will proceed through the square to the Stoughton Town Hall via Washington, School and Pearl Streets for a ceremony and wreath laying at the Memorial Bell. The parade will then reform on Pearl Street and proceed back through the square to Faxon Veterans Memorial Park (across from the library near the Charles Large Gazebo) for two ceremonies at the two memorials there. The parade will then proceed down Walnut Street to Washington Street and go back to the VFW for a collation. The entire parade will be approximately one and one-half hours. Come and watch the wonderful results of the hard work of Veteran's Agent Mike Pazyra. It's a day to salute all of the brave men and women who have served in the military to protect this country. Participants in the parade include local veterans, the VFW Color Guard and Firing Detail, the High School Band, the 12th MA Volunteer Infantry, the Police and Fire Departments, Town and State Officials, Scouts and more.

(Mark Snyder photo)

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LEARNING THE LANGUAGE--and Becoming Citizens!

FULL STORY!

 

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REFLAGGING OF VETERANS GRAVES

On Saturday, November 3, 2012 at the Holy Sepulcher and Evergreen Cemeteries in Stoughton, volunteers spent the late morning re-flagging the graves of Stoughton's veterans. It is a time-honored tradition, which is led by Stoughton's Veterans Agent Mike Pazyra. There were a number of families that participated in this wonderful and patriotic thing. Tattered and worn out flags are replaced with new flags. Pazyra had all the needed flags and volunteers, including many girl scouts, who were all happy to cover the cemetery with crisp new red, white and blues, on a clear and chilly morning. Refreshments were served at the VFW Post 1645 (837 Washington Street outside Stoughton Center) after the re-flagging was completed.(photos by Mark Snyder) (Top right: Mike Pazyra hands flags to young volunteer. Middle left: Abigail Bagtaz. Middle right: Briget McDonnell, Annalisa, Victor and Andrea Marckmann. Bottom left: Carley Raymond and Paris Elder. Bottom Right: Mike with a group of volunteers.)

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MYSTERY DINNER THEATRE A FUN TIME

Little Theatre of Stoughton hosted a Mystery Dinner Theatre on Saturday night, November 3rd, to benefit the family of Shayla Lutz, who was killed in a pedestrian accident in September on Central Street, in front of the Hansen Elementary School. The LTOS presented "Abduction at the YMCA" in a full auditorium of the Old Colony YMCA in Stoughton. The play starred Bob DeLuca as Director Cecil B. DePill, and was the story of a director trying to fill an open position in his theatrical production, which is complicated by the audition of his girlfriend (while his wife was out with his best friend), a talented actual actress, and the floozy of a mob boss. Hilarity ensues. The cast also featured Linda D'Amore, A.J. MacQuarrie, Jeanette Champagne, Rich Morton, Kellie McGrath, Rick Johnson, Izzy Johnson, Jill Higgins, Jan Jones, Tom Karnes, and Sarah Flanagan. The fundraiser was a success due to the hard work of cast members and crew, as well as the kindness of a number of local businesses. It also helped that the Prone Family Foundation dropped $1000 at the event for the Lutz Family Trust. An amazing dinner (with awesome desserts) was served by Peppercorns at the YMCA. Those donating to the success of the event included Old Colony YMCA (which donated the hall), Green Energy Concepts LLC, Cheng Du, Stoughton Bakery, Gowell's Candy, Hilliard's Candy, Bertucci's, Pub 99, Owen O'Leary's, Signature Style Salon, David Lambert Geneology, Walgreen's, Shaw's Supermarket, Fantastic Sam's, Starbuck's Coffee, Classic Pizza, Stop & Shop, Costco, Milwharf Restaurant, Raddison Hotel in Plymouth, Tranquil Sap, Nantucket Gift Basket, Stoughton Community Events Committee, Kristen and Sam Gift Basket, Andre's Liquors, Ardis Johnson, Tori Heinlein, Rentals Unlimited, and French Memories. Jan Jones tells me on November 5th that $3000 was donated to the Lutz Family Trust from this event! (story and photos by Mark Snyder)

Miss the Shayla fundraiser? A trust fund for the Lutz family has been established at the Stoughton Co-Operative Bank. Donations may be made to The Lutz Family Trust at either of the Stoughton Co-Operative Bank's branches on Park Street or mailed to the Lutz Family Trust, c/o Stoughton Co-operative Bank, PO Box 446, Stoughton, MA 02072.

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Rock and Blues Night at Ahavath Torah Congregation a Huge Success!

 

Fans of rock and blues really enjoyed the incredible music that permeated the sold-out room on Saturday, November 3 at Ahavath Torah Congregation. Top-rated Boston Baked Blues, backed by the Full House horns opened up, and played a long and seamless trio of sets that had the crowd dancing, and tapping their toes. Then, Danny Klein, an original member of J. Geils Band, and his group, Full House, rocked the house. They played all of J. Geils hits, and if you closed your eyes, you were there! Rabbi Jonathan Hausman, wearing cautionary earplugs, was right up front rocking to the sounds of both of these fantastic bands. Danny Klein, the one-and-only Ace on Bass for the mighty J. Geils Band, ripped through all the J. Geils songs you know and love with his own band of local heroes, Danny Klein's Full House. Klein and the boys can be found all around the Northeast U.S. at clubs, casinos, festivals, and private parties, rockin' the house to classic tunes like Centerfold, Freeze Frame, Musta Got Lost, Whammer Jammer, First I Look at the Purse... the list goes on and on, and so does the house party! Both bands were supposed to wrap up early, but they jammed together past midnight! The music just kept flowing, from the late 50's to the present. They covered every genre of music. The sold out crowd got up and dances, between tables and chairs, and everyone had an amazing time! Checkout my photos!In addition to Danny Klein on Bass, the Full zhouse band featured Mike Lamm on lead vocals, Stevie G on guitar, Dave Q on keyboards, Rosey Rosenblatt on harp, Peter Hackle on drums, Jon Vanderpool on sax, Dan Rabinowitz on trumpet, and Rihannan Lamb as backup vocalist.

(story and photos by Mark Snyder)

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POLICE OFFER A SAFE HALLOWEEN!

The Stoughton Police Department offered a safe Halloween for our children again this year. On Sunday, October 28, a drizzly afternoon prior to Hurricane Sandy's arrival, groups of children met at the Stoughton Police Station ( 26 Rose Street), and head outed for safe trick or treating tours. They visited Town Hall, Maxx Training Center, Honey Dew Donuts, and the Stoughton Fire Department and got some treats, and had some sweet (and wet) fun! Donations were collected for the Stoughton Food Pantry, but there was no cost to the kids or families. Officer Jay Owens came up with the idea a few years ago, and Sgt. Dan McGowan took over this year (because Jay’s wife is expecting a baby shortly.). Last year a freak snowstorm canceled the event. This year, another freak storm put a bid of a damper on the proceedings. When asked what inspired the idea, Owens told Snyder’s Stoughton, “I’ve always been a fan of Halloween. It’s a great holiday for the kids. I wanted to re-invent it so the children had a safe time. Parents are wary of sending their kids knocking on doors of people that they don’t know There is nothing safer than having your children traveling with a police office, and visiting reputable businesses and their local fire department.” I couldn’t agree more! And, from Stoughton Police Executive Officer Robert Devine: "We would like to thank all of the hard working officers and volunteers that made today's Halloween event a huge success. Thanks to Officers Faria, Zbinski, Desousa, Isabel, Gagne, Mellyn, and Pascarelli for giving tours. Mrs. Isabel Lima for being a great greeting witch at town hall. Selectman Walsh for handing out candy at town hall. Honey Dew Donuts, SFD, and Maxx gym for giving us some great stops along the way. Finally, a special thanks to Sgt. McGowan and Officer Owens for coordinating the whole thing. A great time was had by all!"

(Story & Photos by Mark Snyder. Top left, trick or treaters on Rose Street. Top right, Tony Fresina, with his daughters Arianna and Audrey, and Christine Wilbur. Bottom left, Stoughton Police Officer Stewart Mellyn, Officer Jonathan Gagne, and Maxx Training Center owner Mike Varner. Bottom middle, trick or treaters at Maxx Training's Haunted House, and bottom right, Mike Varner moves the chains.)

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YMCA PROGRAM EXCELLENCE AWARDS

The program staff at several branches of the Old Colony YMCA in Southern Massachusetts are winners of Program Excellence awards for outstanding new programs of 2012. The recipients impact the lives of many at YMCAs in Stoughton, Brockton, Easton and Middleboro.The winners have each brought to fruition a new break-out class during 2012 to a particularly enthusiastic reception by Y members and have personified excellence in upholding the core values of the Y—caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.

OLD COLONY YMCA IN STOUGHTON

Rosangel Aquilar, Group Fitness Instructor, was recognized for her Aqua Zumba class, designed to reflect the Zumba class model but targeted for adults who are encouraged to use water in the their exercise plan.  Aqua Zumba offers a healing cardiovascular workout for adults who may struggle in their pursuit of health and well-being.  It works to increase flexibility and strength through water resistance while giving participants an opportunity to practice dance moves to Latin rhythms.  Paul Baker, Personal Trainer and Wellness Coach, followed up the successful Beginner’s Kettlebell program with the new Intermediate Kettlebell program in response to requests from enthusiastic participants seeking more advanced training.  Kettlebell class maximizes the cardiovascular workout by using movement patterns and swinging weights that increase cardiovascular and flexibility benefits.Brian Becquart and Fred Shane, Martial Arts Instructors, built on the Martial Arts Program started 4 years ago at the Y to create this year’s Women’s Self-Defense Class.  The program offers women empowerment and increased confidence by developing self-defense skills such as heightened awareness of surroundings, knowledge of body contact points, and practice in defense movements.

Derek Paiva, Health and Wellness Director, was recognized for his creation of the new Y-FIT Kids, a 7-week training program for children mirroring the adult monthly fitness program Y-FIT.  The children’s program increases general fitness, improves coordination and functioning, provides cardiovascular and strength training and enhances overall health and wellness.

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Hazardous Waste Day a Big Success, As Is Shredding Day!

Saturday, October 20, was a great day for recycling and general cleanup for the people of Stoughton. The Stoughton Health Department, under the leadership of Health Agent James Conlan and the Board of Health, along with the Department of Public Works, presented a Hazardous Waste Day Saturday, and residents brought in their old tires, paint cans, fluorscent lamps, paint thinners, batteries, photo chemicals, TV's, computer screens, syringes and needles, propane cannisters, pool chemicals, aerosol cans, anit-freeze and other hazardous waste to the O'Donnell Middle School, where it was sorted and taken to its final resting place. There was also a prescription drug take back, there as well. That was sponsored by OASIS (Organizing Against Substances in Stoughton) and the Stoughton Police Department (where there is a kiosk in their lobby.) At the same time, Randolph Savings Bank on Pleasant Street sponsored a Shredding Day, and citizens took full advantage. It was finally a time to take our 1978 taxes and safely throw them away, or old receipts from Zayres, Bradlees and Caldors and have them shredded into ticker tape fodder. Randolph Savings also matched donations that day to the Council on Aging, the Stoughton Public Library, and STOYAC (Stoughton Youth Athletic Club.) A nod of the cap to all those who worked so hard on making both events so successful!(Courtesy photos)

 

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AND, THE PANCAKES TASTED GOOD!

The Stoughton Lions Club held a tasty fundraiser on Sunday, October 21st at the VFW in Stoughton Square. Carol Melendy and Bonnie Abrams Biederman served fabulous pancakes, eggs and sausages. There were raffles--for 50/50 cash, an autographed Red Sox championship photo, and even a toaster. King Lion Bob Mullen said he was very happy with the large gathering. "People have been coming in all morning. It's just great to see it, " he told Snyder's Stoughton. The Lions Club charities support sight programs and services, including vision screenings, eye banks and eyeglass recycling. They also help to provide eye care services to those at risk of losing their sight. Many of the volunteers are pictured above, from the pancake breakfast. Left to right in my photo are: Carol Neville, Carol Melendy, Effie Noren, Ed DeFelice, Bonnie Abrams Biederman, Jerry Capozzoli, Chris Gilday, Chris Zienko, John Pires and Bill Harmon.

(story and photos by Mark Snyder)

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SERENADERS DELIGHT CROWD AT HISTORICAL SOCIETY BUILDING

The Stoughton Historical Society hosted a concert featuring the Stoughton Senior Serenaders on Sunday, October 11 , and a capacity crowd left in an uplifted mood. Dwight MacKerron served as the emcee for the afternoon musical festivities. Helyn Hall, director of the group, played piano and led the chorus from song to song. Larry Ward was the Director of the concert. Hall told Snyder's Stoughton she was delighted with the loud crowd. She finds it inspiring, saying, "I had a list of dozens of songs, but I could feel what they wanted. We just kept playing what they wanted to hear. It was great." There were solos and duets by 95 year old Albert Pass, Brad Russell, Rosemarie Amadeo, Dottie Burns, Larry Ward, and Jerry & Sylvia Miller (a married couple of 56 years.) After the concert, ice cream sundaes and baked goods were served. A really fun time was had by all!For those of you who are musically inclined, here are some of the tunes sung by this talented group of youngsters at heart: Grand Old Flag, Yankee Doodle Dandy, Give My Regards to Broadway, America the Beautiful, Oh What a Beautiful Morning, Cabaret, Without A Song, I'm Sittin' On Top of the World, Over the Rainbow, When You're Smiling, Don't Fence Me In, Shine on Harvest Moon, Bye Bye Blackbird, Sentimental Journey, Danny Boy, Sweet Caroline, Everybody Loves Somebody, Let Me Call You Sweetheart, I Believe, and 'Til We Meet Again.
95 Year old Albert Pass                   Brad Russell                                     Dottie Burns

Jerry Miller                                         Heleyn Hall                                       Larry Ward leads

(story and photos by Mark Snyder)

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DEMOCRATS HOLD AWARDS DINNER

The Stoughton Democratic Town Committee handed out a number of awards on October 18, at a dinner at Chinatown Restaurant. John Kavin, who co-chaired the event with Donna Smith, was the evening's host. Roberto Soto was vice chair of the event. About 40 people gathered in the restaurant's function room for delicious food, and conversation of how to bring about Democratic victory in November. Obama and Warren shirts were the fashion statement. The most prestigious award of the night, The John Joseph Moakley Lifetime Achievement award went to Steven Fradkin, owner of Wizard of Ads in Canton, and a big cog in the Democratic machine in the State. He recently received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Pro-Choice League, as well. "What does this say about my lifetime", he kidded. The Democrat Party Activist award went to Beverly Harris. Harris said, "I'm overwhelmed and humbled. I try to be role model for my grandchildren. I love politics!" Harris has been involved with the Stoughton Democratic Town Committee since 2006. The Al Lipkind Public Service Award went to Allan Mills, a long-time member of the School Committee an d the SDTC. Lipkind was a successful activist for bringing defibrillators to police cars, and town buildings. His last activity was to promote right-to-die efforts, which made the ballot this November. He believed in dying with your dignity intact. He passed away after a long battle with cancer. Mills said that "Al was tireless in pursuing his goals. I really appreciate being a recipient of an award named for Al." The Democratic Town Committee Award went to Steve Wilkinson, who takes care of much of the online work for the SDTC. "I've been so pleased and happy with this organization," he beamed. The Officeholder Award was won by State Senator Brian Joyce. He was attending a fundraiser in Milton and the award was presented to his assistant, Diane Higgins. The Unsung Hero Award was won by Stan Zoll. He was at a Board of Assessors Meeting and will receive the award next month. Those in attendance will be working hard on behalf of President Obama and U.S. Senate candidate Elizabeth Warren for the November 6th election.

(Story and Photos by Mark Snyder)

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RESIDENTS TACKLE MASTER PLAN & VISION FOR STOUGHTON

Over 100 residents came to contribute their thoughts on a vision for Stoughton's future last night when the Stoughton Master Plan Committee hosted a Public Forum at the Stoughton Senior Center. A light dinner was served and Joe Scardino, Chairman of the Master Plan Committee and the Planning Board, introduced Interim Town Manager Joseph D. Faster, Jr., and then Sue Brown hosted a review of the "Community Snapshot"(compiled by the Town's consultants, her company, Brown Walker Planners). The snapshot provided some very interesting information on our town. Residents are getting older. The median age rose from 39 in 2000 to 43 in 2010. 25% of Stoughton residents are renters. 21% of our population speaks a language other than English as their primary language at home. Median income for households here is $69,945. Income went up over 20% in the last decade. 20% of our population have a college degree, and 10% have a Master's Degree or higher. 41% of all of our land is residential. 29% is municipal or other public or private nonprofit use (includes some open and recreation space.) 12% is commercial, industrial, or mixed use. 18% is agricultural uses or private vacant land. Only 8% of our land (approximately 730 acres) is listed by the Assessor as "developable" or "potentially developable." It is likely some of those sites have development limitations, according to the study. 75% of Stoughton's housing stock is single-family, and 19% is condos. 40% of all multi-unit structures have ten or more units. The average home in Stoughton was worth $243,750 in 2011. That same home was worth $353,750 in 2005, a loss of 31% of value in six years. 11% of Stoughton's housing stock is "affordable", according to State standards. All of Stoughton's property--residential, commercial, industrial and personal, is worth $2,992,811,251. Yes, that's almost three BILLION dollars. Our real estate tax bills are the fourth-lowest in the region. The crowd be divided into smaller groups for discussion. The small groups later reported back to the total audience, which had diminished as time went on. Many great ideas were talked about, from solving the traffic issues, to remaking the downtown. Most people present agreed that the town needed a new high school, should buy the train station, and should reconfigure the downtown to create a "pedestrian way." There was talk about attracting quality businesses, with high paying jobs, to the area. Stoughton businesses now employ 12,700 people today. Many suggestions were made about traffic congestion, bicyle and pedestrian facilities. Residents in a couple of groups thought that Stoughton has a negative reputation from news reports, and that the school test scores didn't look particularly attractive to outsiders. They had suggested the town start a Public Relations campaign to feature the many positives. Those in attendance thought the people, and the spirit, of the Town were its best features. Sue Brown and Juliet Walker of Brown Walker Planners, and Kien Ho of BETA Group were planning on putting all this information in a digestable form for the Master Plan Committee to share with the public. The Master Plan Committee is Chaired by Scardino. Vice Chair is Dan Kelly of the Conservation Commission. Other members of the Committee include Selectman Chairman John Stagnone, Forrest Lindwall and Lou Gitto of the Redevelopment Authority, Chris Petrie of the Stoughton Chamber of Commerce, and Billy Angelos of the Planning Board.  The Master Plan Committee is A ton of hard work was expended on putting on this event. It was gratifying to see the many new faces who were volunteering for the first time for their town. Hopefully, their enthusiasm level will remain high and they will become an integral part of the town's boards and committees. being advised by Town Planner Maureen O'Toole, who also helped lead the forum last night. Selectman Chairman John Stagnone was in Norwood, working on the State Theatre project, a key to revitalizing the downtown. Selectman Vice Chair Cynthia Walsh and members Bob O'Regan and John Anzivino were in attendance, in addition to School Committee members Dr. Erdem Ural and Vice Chair Joyce Husseini. Many department heads and other government officials were also in attendance.

Some of the Info Available

(photos and story by Mark Snyder)

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RETIRED ISRAELI AMBASSADOR COMES TO STOUGHTON

Ambassador Yoram Ettinger gave an impassioned talk titled “The US-Iran-Israel Triangle” Friday evening, October 12 th, at an open gathering hosted by Ahavath Torah Congregation in Stoughton. He opened the talk with a reference to the opening lines of Genesis, which will be read this Shabbat (Saturday), and how it can also be interpreted as a covenant of Fire and how in Hebrew The United States is translated as “the lands of the covenant.” In a subsequent talk the Ambassador went on to explain that the word “federal” is based on the Latin foedus which translates as a covenant. He pointed out the shared value systems of the US and Israel and how Israel has been the strongest, most supportive ally of the US in the Middle East since the founding of the state in 1948. Approximately 120 individuals made up of Jews, Christians and other interested individuals were in attendance and gave the Ambassador a standing ovation at the end of the evening.He began the talk by discussing the risks that a nuclear armed Iran would potentially pose to the US, to US interests and to Israel. According to Ettinger, if Iran were to obtain nuclear capability, one of the risks would be to the US need to maintain an open Straits of Hormuz due to the amount of oil that travels through that critical waterway. He also stated that a nuclear armed Iran would cause the US to have much less freedom of action, militarily and diplomatically, in the area, much in the same way that the US actions are now restricted as it pertains to North Korea. He went on to explain that contrary to public perception Israel would not likely be the first target of an Iranian attack due to the massive retaliatory ability of the Israeli military. Ettinger expressed that one of the risks of attack on the US could come via a surrogate acting on Iran’s behalf. As a concern he referred to the deepening military ties between Iran and Venezuela following Hugo Chavez’s assent to power.One of main themes of the night was that “pre-emption” is a moral good and necessity in order to avoid a much larger future "boots on the ground" conflict to remove the Iranian nuclear threat. He also made reference to the Israeli attack on the Iraqi core in 1981 which avoided the need for the US to deal with the threat of a nuclear Iraq in 1991 during the first Gulf War which was caused by the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait. He indicated that Menachem Begin, then Prime Minister of Israel, was advised by almost all of his military and political advisors that the likelihood of success in the attack was between 0 and none and the risks of the political fallout was vast. Begin decided to proceed anyway because the “cost of Israeli inaction was more dangerous than taking action no matter the outcome.” Ettinger also stated that although Israel was universally condemned at the time of the bombing, including by the Reagan administration, Dick Cheney in 1991, then US Secretary of Defense, acknowledged the debt that the US and the world owed to Israel by its actions of “pre-emption.”The evening ended with the Ambassador taking questions from those in attendance. One of the more interesting questions concerned Israel’s ability to strike Iran if she decided to go it alone. Ambassador Ettinger stated that the Israeli military has many more options that it did in 1981 due to her expansion of naval capabilities as well as other not specified military alliances with some of Iran’s neighbors. Another of the attendees also asked about the relationship between Obama and Netanyahu and could it be repaired should Obama be re-elected in November? Ettinger stated that he did not feel the relationship could be repaired due to the too extreme differences in world views by the two leaders. According to Ettinger, Obama refuses to see the threat of Islamic terrorism and thus creates an unbridgeable gap in positions between the two leaders.

Ambassador Ettinger did his graduate studies at UCLA and undergraduate at UTEP, served as Minister for Congressional Affairs at Israel's Embassy in Washington (with the rank of ambassador), as Israel's Consul General in Houston and as Director of Israel's Government Press Office. He is the editor of Straight From The Jerusalem Cloakroom and Boardroom, newsletters on issues of national security and overseas investments in Israel's high-tech, as well The Ettinger Report.(Article by Mark Kushinsky. Edited by Faye Kushinsky.)

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PUMPKIN PATCH FALL FESTIVAL

The South Elementary School held a Pumpkin Patch Fall Festival on Sunday, but the rain put a damper on the event. The horse-drawn hayride, which was sponsored by Kiddie Academy, was canceled.  There was a great haunted house, however, that really was very cool. There was also an assourtment of baked goods, burgers, hot dogs, popcorn, cotton candy, cake walk, raffles, silent auctions, kids games and activities, pumpkin decorating, and car seat safety checks. Many vendors also supported the event, with folks like Corrine Fleury of The Pampered Chef, Ellen Greene of the Old Colony YMCA, Jayna Shapiro selling her homemade jewelry, and Jeff Pickette and Christine Iacobbuci manning a Patch Photo Booth. There was a slew of volunteers doing a LOT of work. Hopefully, the South School PTO did well, despite the damp weather.  Among those volunteer faces at the South School were singer-songwriter Lori McKenna, and former Selectmen Secretary Sheila Whalen.

(Story and Photos by Mark Snyder)

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RUMMAGING FOR A BARGAIN!

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OPEN HOUSE at FREEMAN FIRE STATION

Ali, Mia and Tricia Leassy

Residents of Stoughton got to take tours of the dilapidated Freeman Street Fire Station in downtown on Saturday.  Kids got to hang in a fire truck and also got to enjoy free pizza compliments of Papa Gino's in Stoughton.  All the children got a plastic fire helmet to bring home.  Firemen (and women) are heroes, and even the children get big-eyed when they see the firefighters and EMT's in uniform.  For those who did take the tour, they saw pretty sad living conditions.  The public bathroom is falling apart from the ground up, as is the bathroom that the firefighters call their own.  Many of the walls are falling apart, the roof leaks, there's a hold in the ground where fire trucks are kept, and cement pieces are falling off the roof.  In addition to a slice, hopefully citizens who attended also might become more active in advocating for much-needed repairs, or even more importantly---a new public safety facility!  Lt. Jim Campbell and Acting Deputy Chief Greg Goldberg handed out the pizza, while Chief Mark Dolloff, his officers, and fire personnel interacted with the crowd, and always wore a smile. I saw selectman Cynthia Walsh in attendance, when I was there.  I'm sure other dignitaries arrived after I left. Chief Dolloff reminded visitors that it was Fire Prevention Week and residents should remember when changing their clocks for Daylight Savings, Change the Batteries in your Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: they SAVE LIVES.

Story & Photos by Mark Snyder

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Olive Garden Pays Homage to Disabled Vet Volunteers

Eric Watson, himself a disabled veteran, wanted to do something to help recognize the sacrifice of volunteers who donate their time to help disabled veterans. Watson, who came back from serving 13 months for the Army National Guard in Afghanistan in March, is a Manager of Olive Garden in Stoughton. Watson, who suffers from PTSD and heart valve issues from his service to our country, spoke with his General Manager, Steven Brodher, and got approval to hold a dinner for volunteers on October 11. Olive Gareden's parent company has run Disability Mentor Days for volunteers from organizations for the disabled. Volunteers from Stoughton, Randolph, and Weymouth enjoyed the delicious Italian food, and the Olive Garden hospitality. Bernie Planeta, Commander of District 6 of the Amvets, was especially happy to see those who volunteer be recognized. He told About Town, "The sacrifice of so many people's time is very gratifying. The disabled veterans deserve no less." Planeta said that District 6 holds ice cream parties twice a month at the V.A. Hospital in Brockton. Recently, they hosted their Annual Summer Cookout for 100 patients and staff at the Brockton medical facility. Planeta says that his District also buses 40 patients to the Randolph Amvets from the Brockton V.A. Hospital three times each year. "It makes them happy. It gets them out of the hospital and into a community social setting," Planeta said. They also do a big Christmas party every year for fifty patients, and give each of them a holiday gift." Watson said, "It meant the world to me to know that my company supports my decision to honor disabled veterans like myself. Those who step forward to help disabled veterans deserve our gratitude." More volunteers---and monetary donations--are needed to keep up this wonderful work. Donations of time or money are welcome. Contact Mike Pazyra, Stoughton's Veterans Agent, at 781-341-1300 x9220. Pazyra organized this event, as he does the myriad of activities for Memorial Day and Veteran's Day. Volunteers honored included Stoughton residents Cindy Pazyra, Dennis and Joanne Gada, Peter Niosi, and retired Stoughton Deputy Fire Chief Bob Devine. Also honored were Sally Gorman, Beverly LaFleur, Paul Nimeskern, Ray Pike and Floyd Francis (a Randolph Police Officer), all from Randolph; and Patty and Rob Miszkin of Weymouth.
Waitress Angela Williams
and Manager Eric Watson                  Stoughton Veterans Agent Mike Pazyra, Watson,
                                                         and District 6 Amvets Commander Bernie Planeta

(photos and story by Mark Snyder)

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 FARMER'S MARKET A HUGE SUCCESS!

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Bless All Creatures

On Sunday, October 7, Reverend Laurie Rofinot of Trinity Espiscopal Parish led a "A Celebration for the Blessing of the Animals" in honor of the Feast of St. Francis. Among the prayers celebrated was The Gospel--Matthew 26:25-34, which includes, "God created us and placed us on this earth to be stewards of all living things..."There were a number of dogs (including Harry the Rescue Dog--center photo) in attendance. Sung was a great tune by folk singer Bill Staines (a guest on PMPNetwork.com) called "A Place in the Choir", which includes the words, "All God's critters got a place in the choir; some sing low and some sing higher;some sing out loud on the telephone wire. Or some just clap their hands or paws--or anything you've got now...The dogs and cats, they take up the middle; where the honeybee hums, and the cricket fiddles." Readings included the "Feast of St. Francis of Assisi (First Reading Genesis 1:20-28) where God said, "Let the water teem with living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth across the expanse of the sky"; The Second Reading (I Corinthians, 15:39-41), which stated in part, "All flesh is not the same: Men have one kind of flesh, animals have another, birds another and fish another"; and Gospel (Matthew 26:25-34), which is written, in part, "Do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is life not more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air: they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them."Each animal, or photo of animal (and even some stuffed animals) were brought to the altar railing for a blessing.

(Story and photos by Mark Snyder)

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Blue Cross, New Field

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Stoughton Says Farewell to Kelley

The Town of Stoughton bid farewell to former selectman Mark Kelley in a somber ceremony Saturday, September 22, 2012. Father Joseph McDermott officiated as hymns were sung, words were spoken, and tears were shed for the former Precinct Captain at Town Meeting. Among the Faces in the Crowd were: Former Town Manager and Town Clerk Jeanne Fleming, retired DPW Superintendent Larry Barrett, former Selectmen Ed Finn, Scott Carrara, and Richard Fitzgerald; school commitee member Dr. Erdem Ural, Town Moderator Howard Hansen, and town employees Fran Stetson and Stephanie Carrara. Mark's late father, Bill Kelley was a Town Moderator, and his brother (also named Bill) was a Town Meeting rep. His brother Bill did the Eulogy, which Snyder's Stoughton presents an excerpt here:"On behalf of the Kelley family, I'd like to thank you for attending today as we honor Mark's life. Years ago, I was about to attend my first Stoughton Town Meeting as an elected representative. My father, Bill Kelley, was the Town Meeting Moderator. He took me aside and gave me some lasting advice. 'Son, if you're going to talk in public, stand up, speak up, and shut up.' The Kelley family has lasting and deep ties to the Town of Stoughton. We moved here in 1949. Mark lived all of his life in our house on Central Street. Without a doubt, these ties to the town defined him. Thinking way back, I remember I was five when Mark first arrived home. I was playing in our newly built garage and I saw the car pull in with my mother, father and Mark. I was so excited to have a brother to play with. Mark grew up a regular Catholic Stoughton child. He went to St. Mary's School and attended church here at Immaculate Conception. He went on to Xaverian Brothers High School and graduated college at Bentley. But Mark really never left Stoughton. His friends were here, and then he entered politics. I remember how proud I was when he was elected as a Selectman. We had many long telephone conversations as he explained to me the progress the town was making. As everyone knows, Mark always held all town workers in very high esteem. I never really knew the details behind town budget hearings, but I can honestly tell all of you that there was never a valid request by the fire or police department that Mark Kelley did not fully back. As for his other deeds as a Selectman, well, I've been told Mark always stood up and spoke up. However, I must admit, depending on the source, Mark did not always shut up.

Let me finish with the most important aspect of Mark's life--he was totally a family person. His nieces, nephews and cousins loved him, as did all the family. And, now all of us miss him dearly. May God have mercy on Mark's eternal soul." Amen.

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VOLUNTEERS HONORED AT LUNCHEON

Volunteers from Stoughton's Town Meeting, Boards, Commissions and Committees were honored in a luncheon held on Saturday, September 22nd, in the pavilion behind the Old Colony YMCA branch in Stoughton. A delicious barbecue was catered by Peppercorns at the YMCA, and music and sound was provided by Chris Petrie, Chairman of the Board of the Stoughton Chamber of Commerce. The event was planned and hosted by Selectmen Chairman John Stagnone, with guest speakers, fellow Selectmen Cynthia Walsh and Bob O'Regan. A Special Proclamation was given to Mike Sammarco, in honor of his efforts with Babe Ruth Baseball, the Sons of Italy, and the Stoughton Planning Board. A sign, which names a field at the Babe Ruth facility, was unveiled by Mike and his wife, Rosemary. (story and photos by Mark Snyder)

 

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LEMONADE STAND!

MAKING MONEY FROM LEMONS FOR SICK KIDS: The third annual Tiso Family lemonade stand was held at Bob’s Famous Food Mart parking lot on September 23^rd, as part of Kid’s Day. They had hoped to top the first two years.The first year, Holly Tiso’s children: Grace, Gregory, Tyler and Sean raised over $100.  Last year, they raised over $300.  This year, they had an INCREDIBLE day! Their mom, Hollie Tiso, said that with Bob's allowing them to be there, and with the help of the Teixeira family, they raised $650. But, wait! The Prone Family Foundation kicked in another $650, and with some more donations coming in by mail, it appears the Tiso Children will be able to present Children's Hospital $1400! Adds Hollie, "Not only did the Tiso kids have fun serving lemons for a great cause, but they had a blast at Bob's Food Mart's Kids Day, where they had their faces painted, and our daughter got her hair wrapped by local cheerleaders, they dunked the owner of Bob's in the dunk tank, Blue Shelter had the cutest dogs there for adoption, there were karate shows, the police did child ID's, there were raffles. I can't wait for next year!" Snyder's Stoughton was out of town and was bummed to miss it. There's always next year!

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Third Annual Bob DiMatteo Memorial 5K Run

Bob’s Famous Food Mart sponsored their 8th Annual Kids Day, 5 K Run and 3 Mile Walk on Sunday, September 23 at 289 Park Street on Rt. 27 in Stoughton. There were two events in one.  The Third Annual Bob DiMatteo Memorial 5K Run, a 3 Mile Walk, and a Free 1 Mile Kid’s Run.  T Shirts were given to all 5K and 3 Mile participants. At 11 a.m., Kid’s Day festivities started.  Kid’s Day featured food, refreshments, prizes, and FREE giveaways for the kids. There was a giant raffle held at 1:30 p.m.  Prizes include golf outings, sports tickets, restaurants, and a grand prize of a $500 gift card to Bob’s Famous Foodmart! Entertainment was provided by Stoughton DJ, David Jordan. Kid’s Day also featured a dunk tank, Kid’s Mini Races and Obstacle Courses, Child Quest ID and Fingerprinting, a Fire Engine, Face Painting, Bake Sale, Hot Dogs and Sausages. Proceeds from Kid’s Day will benefit Stoughton Fire Safety, Stoughton Police Explorers, Blue Dog Shelter, and the Stoughton Youth Commission.  All Proceeds from the Run and Walk will go to fun two Stoughton High School Scholarships and to help a local family affected by cancer, as well as other local children’s causes.  For more information, go to www.bobsfamous.com. You can STILL donate! Bob DiMatteo Memorial Road Race, 289 Park Street, Stoughton, MA 02072
(Top photos by Mark Snyder. Bottom photos by (l) Jeffrey Pickette of Stoughton Patch, and (r) by Terry Schneider.)

 

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REPUBLICANS MEET...
Two Candidates Featured

The Republican Town Committee met Wednesday, September 19, and featured two candidates for public office.  8th Massachusetts Congressional District candidate Joe Selvaggi, who is facing Democratic Congressman Stephen Lynch, told the dozen or so gathered at the Wales French Room in Stoughton Public Library, that the campaign is really about jobs. Selvaggi, a Boston resident, who is the founder and president of Plaster Fun Time, a chain with 9 stores and sixty employees, said that Lynch has attached his name to one piece of legislation in 11 years in office. "He was our Rep on the Banking Commission. They oversee the banks in this country. He collected contributions from a Who's Who of the banking and investment scandals. His only other assignment is the government oversite committee, which is supposed to watch government spending. His lifetime score on government waste is 7%! That means he voted wrong 93% of the time. if it's all about jobs, you couldn't find a worse congressman than Stephen Lynch. I've created 60 jobs in the private sector. What has Congressman Lynch done?" Selvaggi said Lynch's last opponent got 38% of the vote. He's hoping to get 51%. Lynch and Selvaggi will be debating on October 12 at 6 p.m. on Fox 25. The second guest was Earl Sholley, an unsuccessful candidate for State Senate (vs. Scott Brown) and Congress (vs. Sean Bielot). He's running this time for Governor's Council. His opponent is Democrat Bob Jubinville. They are running for the seat vacated by the death of Kelly Timilty. Sholley, a consultant and CEO of Palladin Petitions, a petition management service company, is from Norfolk, and is a newly-elected member of the Republican State Committee. He says he believes in less government, fewer taxes and term limits. He pledges he would serve only two terms. He told the gathering, "We have some of the worst judges in the world. There's talk of abolishing the Governor's Council, and it's even been advocated in the Boston Globe. Do you know why? Because there's a potential of five Republicans getting elected to the eight seats." He continued, "There has been a chronic abuse by the members of the Council. I'm running a low budget campaign. I'm not going to dip into my own pockets. But, I'm lucky. The Democratic machine hates my opponent's guts."
I asked if he had any law enforcement or legal background, which I think is essential if you are picking judges, and Sholley said he's familiar with courts. "I brought a complaint in Superior Court and federal courts. I've been before the SJC. I think we're better with non-lawyers. It's an incestuous brotherhood. I think we need people in other fields, with common sense, and the courage to ask tough questions." Sholley said he has started three different companies, including Grass Roots Lawn & Landscape Company, which he recently sold.

Selvaggi and Sholley(Mark Snyder photos)

CLASSIC WALK

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STOUGHTON PARTICIPANTS IN BOSTON MARATHON
JIMMY FUND WALK

On September 9, nine residents from Stoughton will walk up to 26.2 miles along the historic route of the Boston Marathon in the 24th annual Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk presented by Hyundai.They will be among the 9,000 walkers expected to participate with the collective goal of raising more than $7.5 million to support lifesaving adult and pediatric patient care and cancer research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.Stoughton walkers include: Sandra Clark-Martin, Mary Courtney, Erin Gomes, Melissa Jenne, Ellen Kaufman, Joel Kravetz, Deborah and Mark Levine, and Trudy Miller.The Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk is the largest single-day participatory event benefiting the Jimmy Fund and Dana-Farber and has raised nearly $80 million since its inception in 1989 to conquer all forms of cancer. The Boston Athletic Association has supported the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk for the past 24 years.“Every year, the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk unites thousands of people — from parents, neighbors, coworkers, cancer patients, cancer survivors, and the young and the old — who share a goal to bring an end to cancer,” says Ann Beach, director of the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk. “Their dedication and commitment to fundraising for the event enables Dana-Farber to aggressively pursue its life-saving mission.”Participants may choose to walk one of four routes: the entire 26.2-mile Hopkinton to Boston route; the 13.1-mile Babson to Boston route; the 5-mile Boston College route; or the 3-mile route starting at Dana-Farber’s campus.Those unable to participate on Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk day can become “Virtual Walkers” and still fundraise for the event.Walkers begin in Hopkinton between 5:30-7:30 a.m.; at Babson College between 8:30-9:30 a.m.; at Boston College between 10 a.m. and noon; and from Dana-Farber at 1:30 p.m. The Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk finishes at Copley Square in Boston, where walkers can celebrate completing the course and enjoy complimentary food, beverages, a speaking program, and entertainment.All walkers must raise a minimum of $300, and walkers 12-years-old and younger have a fundraising minimum of $100. Pacesetters are extraordinary fundraisers who raise $1,250 or more. Young Pacesetters are children 12 years old and younger who raise $500 or more.To register for the 24th annual Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk, to support a walker, or to volunteer, visit www.JimmyFundWalk.org or call (866) 531-9255. Registrants can enter the discount code BOSTON for $5 off the registration fee. You have up until event day to register to walk and can make financial contributions until December 31.

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LEARNING TO BE SAFE ON THE ROAD

THEATRE UNDER THE BIG TOP

The Little Theatre of Stoughton is doing something a little different this summer. Their 55th season production of "Snow White: The Musical" will take place in the great outdoors on August 24, 25 and 26th at the Cedar Hill Golf Course under the Big Top!

It’s adapted from the original Grimm’s Fairytale by the trio of Sarah Flanagan, Kellie McGrath, and Jeanette Champagne. Jan Jones, the President and glue that holds together the Little Theatre of Stoughton, told Snyder's Stoughton that, “The three ladies rewrote the Grimm’s Fairy Tale as a play, and added music from other plays. It is really fantastic. They included songs from Beauty & the Beast, The Little Mermaid, Footloose, Shrek, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Finian’s Rainbow, Bye By Birdie, Aida, Legally Blonde, and West Side Story.” In addition, tunes associated with Snow White, like “Some Day My Prince Will Come”, “Hi-Ho, Hi-Ho, It’s Off to Work I Go,” and “Whistle While You Work” are included.

It's an adult show that you can bring your children to, as well. And, what a cast! The Narrators are Tori Heinlein and Mallory Breen. Headliners include Tom Karnes as the King, Jeanette Champagne as the Queen, Ashleigh Lutz as the Young Snow White, Izzy Johnson as the Teenage Snow White, and Deanna Felix as Snow White. The cast is so huge that I’d like to mention everyone—but I don’t have the space. But, if I’m writing about Snow White, then I have to give a shout out to the Seven Dwarfs—Doc (Sam Bouchaiba), Happy (Katie-Lee MacNeil), Sneezy (Jason Mutascio), Sleepy (Rich Morton), Bashful (Brain MacNeil), Grumpy (Matt McGrath), and Dopey (Lisa Pernock). Sarah Flanagan and Kellie McGrath Directed the Show. Jan and Roger Jones designed the clever set.

Jones wanted to give Special Thanks to the Cedar Hill Golf Course, Felos Memorial Art Center Gallery, Knights of Columbus, and No Joke Graphics.

Performances are Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30 p.m., with Saturday and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. Admission is $15, with discount tickets for students, and seniors priced at $12. Get your tickets at www.littletheatreofstoughton.org. For more information, call 781-834-6209.

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14th Annual Lions Club Concerts in The Park The Stoughton Lions Club Concerts in the Park 2012 summer season ended on Sunday, August 19th at Faxon Veterans Memorial Park on Park Street, across the street from the Stoughton Town Library. The bands played in the Charles Large Gazebo. All concerts were from 5-7 p.m. and were FREE OF CHARGE. Concerts were open to all Stoughton residents. Here's the rundown....

July 8          Political Asylum July 15        Easy Access Band
July 22, The Westwood Swing Band!

August 5     The CorvairsThe Corvairs played everything from Elvis to the Beatles and did their best performance in years! Drummer and co-founder Ilene Corvini led the way, backed by guitarist Phil Brigham, keyboardist, guitarist and vocalist Kent Kreutler, and Louis Leeman on bass. Lions Club King Lion Bob Mullen did the introductions. He thanked the sponsors including Stoughon Cultural Council, Stephen Prone & The Prone Family Foundation, Randolph Savings Bank, Steve Kelly and KC Residential & Commercial Real Estate, Stoughton Cooperative Bank, Sheehan Funeral Home, Dr. Betsy Disharoon, Drs. George Mark and Judith Goldstein, Tosca Drive Auto Body, Sam's Getty, and Stoughton Motel.

Photos by Mark Snyder

August 12    The Infractions

August 19    Paul Agnew and the John Capavella Quartet
(quartet photos by Bob Mullen)

(Other photos above by Mark Snyder)

 

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STOYAC FUNDRAISER BIG SUCCESS!

STOYAC held a successful fundraiser this weekend, with teams from all over competing in a fun softball series. Volunteers Sheila Whalen and Robin Ekpunobi are pictured in upper left hand photo. The Shirt they are holding was designed by Tracy Homer. At middle are tie-dyed T shirts, and at right refreshment stand. Reebok of Canton was the sponsor of the event.

(photos by Mark Snyder)

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Some Doggone Fun!

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FIGHTING BULLIES THROUGH ART

Karen O'Connell, an art teacher at the O'Donnell Middle School, set up an anti-bully art show, which is currently on display at the Stoughton Public Library's upstairs gallery.A competition was held, and here are the winners:

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14 Residents Pedal For Charity

GRACE CHURCH HOLDS A DIFFERENTKIND OF SUNDAY SERVICE

Grace Church Pastor Sean Sears told Snyder's Stoughton that four different Sunday services were combined into a community event on Sunday, July 29, to bring the families of Grace Church together, for socializing and family fun. Grace Church provided an array of barbecued foods, bouncing structures for the kids, and music. The attendees were a diverse group, and Sears told me that many people who come to Grace Church are not religious. "They are indviduals who are looking to come back and find God." Grace Church provides a non-threatening, welcome place where Sears and his wife Billie, are not only approachable, but are inviting. Grace Church has really become fully involved in the Town of Stoughton. They have offered free movie nights, free car washes, and many family events. The Sunday event was scheduled at a time when rain was predicted by the meteorologists. "We had a lot of people praying for clear skies from 11-2 today. So far, their prayers have been answered," Sears told me. (Photos by Mark Snyder)

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STOUGHTON RESIDENTS PART OF
PARAGON PARK: THE MUSICAL

Paragon Park: The Musical is playing a two week, completely sold-out stint at Company Theatre in Norwell. Reviews have been incredible, and the nostalgia for the Nantasket Beach amusement park is at a peek.Snyder's Stoughton checked out a rehearsal of the play, before the Opening on July 27. The music is fantastic, and the memories that the musical brings to all of us who went to the Park is amazing. As someone who once spent all day riding the coaster over 40 times, this one hit a bulls eye in me. Stoughton residents involved in the production are (l to r) in bottom left photo: SHS Graduate Corinne Mason, who plays young Rose; Ron Christianson, who was Director of Fine Arts at Stoughton High for decades before his 2008 retirement. He plays trumpet in the Paragon orchestra; SHS Grad Michael Joseph, Musical Director for Paragon and Company Theatre; SHS graduate Michelle McGrath, PR Consultant for Paragon and Company Theatre; and Adam Isbitsky, SHS grad and a part of the Paragon Ensemble. TV newsman Scott Wahle is a featured star of the play.

(Photos Exclusively for Snyder's Stoughton. Bottom photo by Zoe Bradford. Photo at top by David Giagrando.

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ANNUAL HOLY GHOST SOCIETY AZORES FEAST
Singer David DeMelo Saturday and Sunday July 14 & 15 @ Immaculate Conception Church Parking LotA good time was had by all!

(Photos by Mark Snyder)

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JULY 4TH EVENTS

The Parade

The Stoughton Community Events Committee did it again---another amazing Parade! The day began with a soaking rain on Wednesday, but the skies held out and the parade started at 2:30 p.m. Leading the parade was Stoughton Police Chief Paul Shastany, followed by many of the department's vehicles. The final vehicle was the fire vehicle driven by Fire Department Lt. Greg Goldberg. There was the usual groundswell of politicians walking the parade, including State Senator Brian Joyce (D-Milton), Norfolk County District Attorney Michael Morrissey, Governor's Council candidate Bart Timilty, David Sheehan from the Norfolk County Sheriff's Office, Town Moderator Howard Hansen; School Committee members Deborah Sovinee, Joyce Husseini, George Dolinsky and Dr. Erdem Ural; Selectmen John Stagnone, Robert O'Regan, and John Anzivino. Selectman Cynthia Walsh rode with former Selectman John Kowalczyk (the town's longest-serving selectman since World War II) in his blue Thunderbird. A number of successful sports teams celebrated championship seasons on floats, including the AA Pirates, Major League Pirates (26-0), Major League Marlins, Stoyac Cheerleaders, and Stoyac Softball Champions. The usual musical acts used every year in the parade-- from Canada-- notified Parade Chairman Joseph Mokrisky they would not be making the trip, due to the threat of thunderstorms. Mokrisky was able, at the last minute, to secure three different Boston Windjammers bands. Music was also provided by rock band 24 South, which features Stoughton's own Steve DiGloria (from the DPW) on drums, and the vocal talents of lovely Lisa Jacobs. Mass Brass Band (on a truck owned by Ralph Sellito of Stoughton) was featured, as was Worcester Light and Sound, Hot Tomales, and an Elvis impersonator. Local fitness businesses were well-represented. They included Michael Varner and Maxx Force from Maxx Training Center; Kevin "Gunns" from Elite Fitness & Health in their Boot Camp Hummer; and the gang from the Old Colony YMCA in Stoughton. There was an array of very cool cars--antique and modern--, with the South Shore Corvette Club, South Shore Antique and Model T Club, and Paul Williams of Lou's Custom Exhaust in StoughtonNancy Urell and the Stoughton Women's Club took part in the parade, in a Cadillac and a PT Cruiser. But, what had to be the most outstanding float in the parade had to be the Stoughton Historical Society's. Thanks to the efforts of Joe DeVito, Janet Clough, Evelyn Callahan, Charles Wade, and Dwight MacKerron, they had a float with the theme, "We Honor Veterans from All Wars." Rick and Linda Woodward carried the banner, and the float was filled with volunteers wearing elaborate (and broiling) authentic uniforms representing the many services and wars. Participants on the float included Malyke Ross (Revolutionary War), David Lambert (Civil War), Benjamin Mallock (World War I), Brenda Lambert (Woman's Army Corps), Daniel Bueil (Air Force), Brendan Gallagher (SeaBees), Joshua Williams (U.S. Army), Mikayla Williams (Nurse Corps), Jack Goldberg (Coast Guard), David Griffin (Modern Army), and Alyssa Dupont (Desert Storm). MacKerron, the president of the Stoughton Historical Society, told Snyder's Stoughton that sections of the trolley tracks were mounted on the of the float's sign, thanks to the work of Mokrisky, Dennis and Carlene Walsh, and Maria Simas. These tracks were found several years ago when parts of the Square were repaved. It was my honor to host the Parade again this year, and I want to thank Papa John's and The Last Shot for providing prizes for the trivia. If you missed it at the parade, you still have a chance to win. See the end of Thursday's About Town of Stoughton Patch! Thanks to Jeff Connors of Audio PA Systems in Stoughton for providing sound for the Parade. He did an incredible job, and allowed everyone---even a block away--to hear the announcements. It was also nice to see Joyce, Jonathan and George Parsons, the wife, son and brother respectively of the late Bob Parsons, who was involved in the 4th of July events for three decades.  He was greatly missed. Parade Chairman Mokrisky thought it was one of the best parades the Town has had. Here's are the list of volunteers who stepped up big time to make the two day event happen:  Joe Mokrisky, Parade & Committee Chairman; Bob Desmond, Vice Chairman Stoughton Events Committee; Dennis Donoghue; Kevin Stetson, Fireworks Chairman; Brian, Carlene and Dennis Walsh. Mokrisky wanted to send special thanks to: Police Chief Paul Shastany, Police Executive Officer Lt. Robert Devine, Fire Chief Mark Dolloff, Stoughton Auxiliary Police, and John Batchelder and the DPW. Mokrisky also wanted to remind those who enjoy the Haunted Hayride in October that "WE NEED VOLUNTEERS!" You can call Joe at 781-344-8887 to volunteer.
(Photo of me above by Jeff Pickette of Stoughton Patch. Bottom photo by Hank Herbowy. Check out Patch for a ton of photos of all the July 4th events.)

Concert & Fireworks

A record crowd gathered all around the Town of Stoughton for the Ronnie Lewis & the Expedition concert, and the amazing fireworks display on July 3rd. Tens of thousands of people gathered at the High School, the West School, Shaw's Plaza, and other locations all around town to watch the fireworks. Traffic was held up for a LONG time by the sheer number of people. For instance, at Shaw's Supermarket, every space in the large lot was filled, including at the neighboring Webster Bank, and the side lot at Shaw's. And, cars were parked alongside other cars. No one was able to shop. But, they certainly got a good view of the 35 minute display. A special red white and blue firework was shot out in dedication to the late Bob Parsons, in dedication to his nearly 30 years on the July 4th Committee, and his decades as Chair of the event. That was followed by Lewis' rendition of "America the Beautiful", and then a great fireworks display. There was also a Carnival at the O'Donnell Middle School parking lot that was jammed full. I enjoyed a healthy Fried Oreo there. Doesn't get much better than that! And, the debut of Stoughton's massive flag flew off a Stoughton Fire Department ladder truck. It was the fruit of the efforts of Stoughton Patch columnist Christine Iacobucci, and her daughter, Bella. Kevin Stetson deserves much credit for chairing the concert/fireworks. The entire Stoughton Community Events Committee deserves a Shout Out for this one: Chairman Joe Mokrisky and Vice Chair Bob Desmond, and members Heidee Anastos, Denis Donaghue, Heather Genereux, Suzie Gross, Lynne McCormack, Paula Myers, Nancy Patterson, Maria Simas, Kevin and Fran Stetson, Laurice Rubel, Carlene and Dennis Walsh.

(Story & Photos by Mark Snyder)

 

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Children's Field Day Article

LIBRARY SUMMER READING PROGRAM STARTS

(photos and information provided by Sue Hargreaves)

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CAR WASHES & YARD SALES LAST WEEKEND

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Stoughton Friends for Seniors Holds Free Bingo Event

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LINCOLN TECH HOLDS RIBBON CUTTING FOR DENTAL ASSISTING PROGRAM
Angela Dennis, Campus Director; Helenmary Pizzi dental assisting instructor; Ashley Finney, student from Stoughton; and Rhonda Heard, lead dental instructor.  Ribbon cutting for dental assistant program at Lincoln Tech last week.

(Mark Snyder photo)

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KIDS PNC

On Sunday June 10, 10-year-old Austin Mauriello of Stoughton participated in the Kids Pan Mass Challenge ride in Sharon to raise money for the Dana Farber Cancer Institute. Austin raised nearly $100 by building and selling bird houses to family, friends and teachers. Austin rode the 10K course (6.2 miles) in memory of his grandmother, Cheryl Mauriello, who passed away four years ago from Cancer. After his grandmother's passing, Austin's dad, Michael, participated in his first Pan Mass Challenge, riding the 90 miles from Wellesley to Cape Cod. 

Austin was inspired by his dad and last year participated in his first Kids PMC ride. Austin's dad will be riding in his third Pan Mass Challenge in August.

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First United Methodist Church Celebrates 200th Anniversary!

First United Methodist Church celebrated its 200th anniversary on Sunday, June 10th at their 103 Pleasant Street location. The service was led by Pastors Rev. Sunmin Cho and Rev. Rebecca Cho. Special guests included District Superintendent Rev. Martin McLee, who offered a prayer, and Rev. Peter Weaver, Bishop, who delivered a Sermon titled, "Living Downstream." Service of the Baptismal Covenant was conducted by Eliza Aaluyah Kargbo and Karina Myungyun Cho. Music was provided by Evelyn Ginsberg on keyboards, and liturgist was Mary Mann. The Cho's have been co-Pastors of First United Methodist Church since November 0f 2011, and are the parents of two daughters, Evelyn and Karina.

David Morawas the guest organist for the afternoon service. Pastor Rebecca Cho led the prayers, and Frances Wade-Nelson acted as M.C. Bishop Peter Weaver gave the Blessing of the Church. Jackie Benson-Jones, the Chairwoman of the Church's Board of Trustees introduced Stoughton's Interim Town Manager Joseph D. Feaster, Jr. Mrs. Ruth Fitapatrick and Ms. Elizabeth Fitzpatrick read letters from former Pastors at the Church, while Richard Fitzpatrick spoke about Methodism in Stoughton. Reflections were spoken by Senior member Carol Smith, and Youth member Ronnie Green. And, musical tributes were offered by Pat Boyce-Green, Ronnie Green, Krystal Close, Korey Close, and Chane Thomas. Dessert and beverages were served after the service. Happy 200th! Proceeds from the event were to be used to assist with the expense of de-leading the church parsonage.

(Story and Photos by Mark Snyder)

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Stoughton ESOL/ABE Student Achievement Ceremony
Elaine Stewart, Dean of Workforce Development & Community
Education at Massasoit Community College
Stoughton's Interim Town Manager Joseph D. Feaster, Jr. spoke to the grads Stoughton ESOL/ABE Graduates

Linda Aspinwall, Director of Adult Basic Eduction
programs at Massasoit Community College
Thong Nguyen, a graduate of the program, speaks.

The Stoughton ESOL/ABE Graduation and Student Achievement Ceremony took place on May 31st in the Stoughton High School Auditorium. CLASS 3B: STOUGHTON ABE graduates included: Fernando Albergaria, Renato Albergaria, Asher Avrahami, Vasco Balde, Jonas Bernard, Elisangela Brito, Gleicivania Cruz, Mayari Ferraz, Urjita Jhurmarwala, Assel Kalybayeva, Apinya McLaughlin, Arlene Nascimento, Edelamar Neigherbon, Thong Nguyen, and Luciana Santos. Elaine Stewart , Dean of Workforce Development & Community Education at Massasoit Community College, and Linda Aspinwall, Director of Adult Basic Education Programs there, did the welcomes and introductions for the couple of hundred people who gathered for the festivities. Guest Speakers included Stoughton’s Interim Town Manager Joseph D. Feaster, Jr. and State Senator Brian A. Joyce (D-Milton). The Ronald Homer Award (from the retired Stoughton school guidance counselor of the same name) went to Betty Mattoli, Education and Career Advisor for the program at Massasoit Community College. Mattoli presented the Anthony L. Sarno Achievement Award to Werlei Da Silva. The Citizenship Awards went to Mussarat Chaudhry and Oleh Reshetnyuk. Instructors for the program include Dulce Carvalho (1A), Dianne Blanchard (2A), Frankie Cohen (3A), Jennifer Temkin (1A), Silvia and Jenifer Carmetti (2B & 3B), and Anastasia Zis (1B). Class speakers were Vasco Balde (3B), Thong Nguyen (3B), and Georgia Boechat (3A). Aspinwall told Snyder’s Stoughton, “ As you saw, it is a great program with adult learners who are there to learn English to better their lives which defaults to family, community and our global world." Added Stoughton Public Library Director Pat Basler,"The Stoughton Adult Basic Education program began as a cooperative effort between the Town of Stoughton, Stoughton Schools and Massasoit Community College, 13 years ago.  Every year, we hear the same touching stories of how these adult students hold down one or more jobs, raise families and attend 6 hours of evening class/week to learn English in
order to become true members of our community.  Stoughton is very lucky
to have this program."

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Dawe School Community Reading Day

The Dawe School held their 5 th Annual Community Reading Day. Principal David Barner said, “We started it with our school council five years ago. We wanted to do something different to increase interest in reading, and to involve the community in the education process.” Dawe Elementary School had a broad spectrum of readers, who also handled some of the questions from the classes. I had the honor of reading Holly Robinson Peete’s book about autism for Mrs. Whoriskey’s third grade class. What a great group of children, who asked excellent questions, mostly about my dog, Harry. Readers included: Former Dawe School principals Joseph Dawe, Jr. and Dr. Robert Adams; Stoughton Police Deputy Chief Robert Devine & Detective Roger Hardy; Stoughton Fire Department Chief Mark Dolloff & Lt. Greg Goldberg; State Rep. Lou Kafka, State Senator Brian Joyce & Joanne Tierney from State Rep William Galvin’s office; Stoughton Library Director Pat Basler; School Committee members Dr. Erdem Ural,George Dolinsky, and Joyce Husseini; Superintendent of Schools Dr. Marguerite Rizzi; Old Colony YMCA Stoughton Executive Director Joyce Dwyer; Interim Town Manager Joseph D. Feaster, Jr.; COA/Youth Commission Director Karen Hall; Anne Marie Kennedy of Barnes & Nobles in Walpole; Lindsey O’Regan, filling in for her father, Selectman Bob O’Regan; Margaret Sewcyk, owner of Creative Preschool; Teresa Tapper of the Stoughton Youth Commission; Selectwoman Cynthia Walsh ; and Ed Jenkins, a former NFL player, and author of the upcoming book, “Fraternity.” He is also Chief Diversity and Civil Rights Officer for the Mass. Dept. of Transportation. He brought along two guest readers, according to Principal Barner, Bernard Hicks, the Mass. Dept. of Transportation Chief of Staff; and Stephanie Meal-Johnson, Assistant Secretary to the Chief of Staff at the Mass. Dept. of Transportation.

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Jewish War Veterans Present Check to Brockton V.A.Monday, June 4, the Jewish War Veterans of Sharon were at the Brockton VA Hospital and presented a check in the amount of $2000 for personal items to assist veterans in the care of the Veterans Administration Healthcare System.  In photo (left to right) Herb Shostek, Ted Blank, Commander Jeff Weitzenkorn of Stoughton, Richard Leeman, (Assistant Chief, Voluntary Service VA Boston Healthcare System), Paul Maltzman, Morton Kaufman, and Milton Kline.  (Photo by Brian J. Kiernan)

 

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While Leppo was battling cancer - and a failed remission - he was also establishing a Spinathon for Strong Kids at the Old Colony YMCA in Stoughton.  That first year, while he was undergoing chemotherapy, he chaired the event and arranged for most of the sponsors. The event raised $17,400. This past year, it raised another $60,000 collectively in all the Old Colony YMCA locations. Leppo, who works for Zip Realty (www.leppoteam.com), says, "Live every day to its fullest. It is important to keep busy, and have a great support system."  I'm happy to say that Mr. Leppo and I have been friends for over 50 years.  Leppo has a wonderful wife and partner of 28 years, Anne, and a great son, Jason.  Both were at the event, along with Mark's friends Cindy and Mike Pazyra from Stoughton.    Since 1993, patients and their family members and close friends, along with physicians, nurses, social workers, and other cancer caregivers at BIDMC have gathered together for this daylong celebration in June, dubbed The Celebration of Life. This inspiring event allows people living with cancer an opportunity to share their stories and learn from Harvard Medical School affiliated physicians, other community experts, and of course, each other. “It’s the pinnacle of the year for those who have been touched by this disease, patients and health care professionals alike,” said Hester Hill Schnipper, LICSW, BCD, Chief of Oncology Social Work at BIDMC and a breast cancer survivor. She adds,  “Celebration of Life ‘puts a face’ on cancer, while providing hope to all that fight it."   She chaired the $125,000 event Sunday. Leppo told me afterwards that, "The Celebration of Life event was very emotional for me. I was honored to be able to speak, and represent cancer survivors. I wanted to give some hope and inspiration to all." That, he did.

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300 ENJOY 2012 FRIENDS FOR SENIORS DINNER

Friends for Seniors held their 2012 Annual Spring Dinner on Saturday, May 19, in the basement hall at Immaculate Conception Church. Father Joseph McDermott did the opening prayer, and from there it was Mike Sammarco and his famous Sons of Italy/Babe Ruth cooking crew that took over. Everyone got chicken, green beans, mashed potatoes and a roll---and cake for dessert. Seniors paid only $3 for tickets! Friends for Seniors President Bob Mullen (who doubles as President of the Stoughton Lions Club and Stoughton's Deputy Moderator in his spare time.) Friends for Seniors Scholarships were awarded to Rebecca Goldberg of the National Honor Society ($500), pictured with Mullen, V.P Joe Arujo, and Josie Harrison ;Anthony Foley of Boy Scout Troop 516 ($250), pictured with his mom, Karen Foley; and to Mike Sammarco for the Babe Ruth League ($500), pictured at left with his cooking crew. Talented pianist and singer David Cuddy provided entertainment that had people dancing in their seats. It was a blast for those that attended. We'll be posting a complete list of volunteers as soon as we receive it. The students of Stoughton High's National Honor Society did an excellent job serving the seniors. Kudos to them! Faces In The Crowd included Stoughton Police Chief Paul Shastany, Selectmen Cynthia Walsh and John Anzivino; TV Personality/Attorney Jack Dembrowsky, and COA/Youth Commission Director Karen Hall. Those working the event included:

(Story and Photos by Mark Snyder)

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PATRIOTS WIN 10th STRAIGHT CHARITY HOOP GAME
but Stoughton Police give them a contest!DETAILS & PHOTOS

FUNDRAISER FOR FIRE VICTIMS

Famed Criminologist & Author Jack Levin
Featured at Lions Club

Levin, Police Chief Paul Shastany, former King Lion Arthur Slate, and Ed DeFelice and Lester Davis

(photos by Hank Herbowy)

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Doing It For Diane Breaks Record

Details will be forthcoming, but it appears that the 7th Annual Doin' It for Diane food pantry fundraiser has topped all their previous events. The most recent one, held on Friday, April 27, attracted a smaller crowd than some of the previous events, but sponsorships increased, and those attending opened their hearts and wallets to those less fortunate. Over $20,000 was generated for Stoughton's two food pantries! There was an amazing array of delicious desserts from Bob's Foodmart, Catering by Linda, Costco, Courtyard by Marriott, Dunkin' Donuts, IKEA, Ivy's Fine Cakes, Lee Policow, New England Sinai Hospital, Panera Bread, the Portuguese National Club, Shaws Supermarket, Stop & Shop in Marshfield & Stoughton, Stoughton Bakery, Target, Texas Roadhouse, TGI Fridays, The Chateau Restaurant, and X & O Restaurant. There was a frenzied live auction, featuring Red Sox tickets (from Steve Anastos); A Martha's Vineyard Week's Vacation Rental from Hank Polanzak; A 3 Hour Classic Limo Ride from John Sawyer, coupled with a Christina's Fireside Grill gift certificate and a Curtis Liquors gift basket; Two Pairs of Celtics Tickets from Mike & Jill at Island Street Automotive; Patriots Tickets from Joe & "Ducky" Keefe; and a "Food Frenzy", featuring $175 worth of restaurant gift certificates. There were SO many raffles and silent auction items, that I don't have the space to thank all the donors here, and I still don't have my voice! The Food Foundation of Stoughton, Inc. is the new sponsor of this event, taking over from the Chamber of Commerce. It is a 501-C3 nonprofit, whose Executive Board consists of President Elizabeth Snell, Vice President Maria Pimental, Secretary Nadine Israel, and Treasurer Dori Frankel. IKEA and Randolph Savings Bank were again the event's major sponsor. And, the Prone Foundation kicked in $1,000. The bottom line was helped greatly by Jill Souza from Island Steet Automotive, who initiated a donor card program, and participated in the Oil for Food Program with Stoughton Chamber Chairman Chris Petrie and Windsor Tire. The DIFD 2012 Committee included Terry & Joanne Schneider, Anne Havlin, Christine Gallagher, Lucy O'Connor, Bridget Horan, Charley Verge, Suzanne Blacker, Hank Polanzak, Mark Snyder, David Fisher, Fred Yaitanes, Nadine Israel, Lisa Wheeler, Steve Kelly, Cindy Pazyra, Maria Pimental, Beth & Megan Snell, Jill Souza, Dori Frankel, Joyce Dwyer, Joan Foley, Chris Petrie, Joel Honig, Peg Carbone, Denis Donaghue, Jack Raeke, and Michael Crawford. Entertainment was provided by the A Capella group, the Echoes, and by singers Joe "Kidd" Fernandes and Nicole Caramanica of "Double Impact." I was happy to be the MC for the seventh year.

(Photos by Danielle Schneider)

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2nd Annual "It's Elementary"
5K Road Race & Fun Run

A nice crowd turned out Saturday, April 28, on a cold and crispy day for the Second Annual It's Elementary 5K Road Race and Fun Run. Conceived by Rosanna Kelleher, the co-president of the Dawe School PTO, it is a fundraiser for ALL FIVE Stoughton elementary schools. The event was a huge success, due much to the generosity of the event's sponsors. Kiddie Academy was the Premiere Sponsor. Blue Cross-Blue Shield of Massachusetts was the Platinum Sponsor. Randolph Savings Bank and Whole Person Health were Silver Sponsors. Bronze Sponsors included Farley Funeral Home, Stoughton Auto Body, Good Samaritan Hospital, HarborOne Credit Union, Knights of Columbus, Roche Bros. Supermarket, Walgreens and Walmart. Kelleher wanted to thanks the Stoughton Auxiliary Police, Holbrook Emergency Services, Colonial Runners, Marathon Sports, Ocean Spray, Old Colony YMCA, and all the volunteers and sponsors for their help. DJ Vaughn Enokian provided all the sound, and I was happy to be the emcee again this year, despite a scratchy voice as a result of the DIFD fundraiser the night before. Fun Run Winners included (first place tie) John Neves and Rami Hourabi; (second place) Tess Khoury; and (third place) Mary Thompson. 5K Winners were:Overall Men's: (1) Daniel Yifru of Stoughton, (2) Matthew DiTrolio of West Bridgewater, and (3) Jacob Berman of Sharon.
Overall Women's: (1) Melissa Chester-Lentendre of Stoughton, (2) Laura Janelli of Stoughton; and (3) Emily Weldon of Randolph.
Men 18+Under: (1) Matt Moran of Brockton, (2) Matthew MacKay of Canton; and (3) Brian Tucker of Stoughton.
Women 18 + Under: (1) Elizabeth Slade of Stoughton, (2) Gianna Grillone of Brockton, and (3) Hannah Willy of Stoughton.
Men 19-29: (1) Joshua Henderson of Brighton and (2) William Reardon of Brockton.
Women 19-29: (1) Carlie Whoriskey of Boston. (2) Sarah Wheeler of Mansfield, and (3)Tracy Wong of Canton.
Men 30-39: (1) Mike Wilson of Stoughton, (2) Adam Kempner of Sharon, and (3) Eric Hubert.
Women 30-39: (1) Kimberly Hedrick, (2) Jean Witt of Stoughton, and (3) Rebecca Doherty of Stoughton.
Men 40-49: (1) Scott Grandfield of Rehobeth, (2) David Billo of Stoughton, and (3) Sean Doherty of Stoughton.
Women 40-49: (1) Heather Luke of Taunton, (2) Chris Shannon of Stoughton, and (3) Kate Brown of Stoughton.
Men 50-59: (1) Stephen Warren of Sharon, (2) Stephen Gigarjian of Stoughton, and (3) Joao Macedo of Stoughton.
Women 50-59: (1) Barbara Purcell of Stoughton.
Men 60 & Over: (1) Brad Kron of Brockton, (2) David Dore of South Easton and (3) George Wang of Stoughton.
Women 60 & Over: (1) Elsie Gaydar of Stoughton.

One of the entertainers at the very successful Healthy Kids Day event at the Old Colony YMCA in Stoughton on Saturday

LIVE from TIMES SQUARE
it's Stoughton's Diane Levine...

WATCH IT

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Adam Lurie got permission Tuesday night from the Board of Selectmen to erect a flag pole at the Frederick H. Pye Memorial Park, located at Central and Canton Streets in West Stoughton, near the Gazebo. This will be Adam's Eagle Scout project, and he'll be aided by other Scouts from Troop 516 in Stoughton .

Stoughton Community Events Committee's Easter Egg Hunt
A HUGE Success in first year at Stoughton High

Hundreds of kids had a great time, including Anthony & Zacary DeSousa, twin six year old sons of Stoughton Police Officer Joe DeSousa (seen with the Easter Bunny). This year's event was held at Stoughton High School, unlike previous events which were at town-owned Cedar Hill Golf Course. The weather cooperated and everyone had a half hour of fun, challenge, and candy! Community Event Committee's Kevin Stetson wanted to give special thanks to Walgreens, which brought the Easter Bunny to Stoughton, and provided film, camera, and all the photos for FREE to Stoughton residents. Kevin also thanked David Sheehan of the Norfolk Country Sheriff Mike Bellotti's Office who directed traffic, as well as the Stoughton Fire Department, for their help at the event. In the photo below, left to right, Fran Stetson, Nancy Patterson, Kevin Stetson, Joe Mokrisky, The Easter Bunny, Bob Desmond, Derek Faria, Captain Ron Dardarno of the Stoughton Auxiliary Police, Maria Simas, and Selena Faria.

(Top photo by Mark Snyder. Middle photo courtesy of Walgreens. Bottom photo by Joe Mokrisky)

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Kids Celebrate Passover with Hands-on Model Matzah Factory

John Anderson Coffee and Conversation

Judge Frank Crimmins & Greg Anderson

A number of Stoughton residents came to the San John Filarmonica Society on Wednesday night, April 4, to meet and ask questions of Selectman John Anderson. Anderson is a candidate for re-election on Tuesday, April 10. His son Greg introduced former Town Manager and District Court Judge Francis T. Crimmins, Jr. Crimmins lauded the performance of Anderson in his three years in office. He told the crowd, "We owe a great debt to John Anderson for helping to bring in Police Chief Paul Shastany. He stepped up to lead the search. The Chief was selected on a 3-2 vote. John also helped fill the vacancy for Town Manager two years ago. That was decided on the same 3-2 vote. If I have to say so myself, I think we did a few good things the past two years as Town Manager. John does a great job and is underestimated by a lot of people." Anderson spoke to a number of concerns of residents who were there. One was the senior liaison police officer requested by Chief Shastany in his 2013 budget, which was rejected by the Board of Selectmen and Finance Committee. "I advocated for this position. The need is there. There are more seniors than students in this town. That officer is needed for the protection of our elderly." Anderson also cited his track record as a Selectman. "The Bay Road culvert collapsed. The Town of Sharon was threatening to sue us unless we spent a million dollars to fix it. We had our public works do the job for under $200,000. Problem over. Fire Station 2 was costing us a lot of money while it was closed. We got it repaired, and now it is open and fully staffed. Then, they announced they were going to close the Stoughton District Court and turn it into a juvenile court. I reminded the group of judges that we got to speak to that the courthouse sat next to three schools and playing fields. That would not have been a good place for the juvenile court. Town Manager Crimmins and Police Chief Shastany also spoke, and the courthouse was saved." As for Anderson's plan for the future, he said, "We need to attract good viable businesses to our town. I'd like to try to bring in additional dollars to reduce the tax burden on residents. We need to keep in place what Judge Crimmins instituted. 14 Department Heads signed a letter supporting Mr. Crimmins. He was obviously doing something right." On a question regarding the schools, the former School Committee member and Council on Aging Chairman said, "I think we need to reduce the costs for the schools. They say it's for the children, but we're not children anymore." Anderson concluded with, "I'd like to continue for the next three years the work I have begun. I ask for one of your votes on April 10."Faces In The Crowd: Selectman Steve Anastos, and his wife Heidee of the Community Events Committee (and their really cool 4th grade son Mike); School Committee member George Dolinsky, FinCom members Peter Ventresco, Ed DeFelice and Dr. Erdem Ural (candidate for school committee); Former Town Managers Francis T. Crimmins, Jr. and Jeanne Fleming (also a former Town Clerk); Planning Board Chairman Joe Scardino; Veterans Agent Mike Pazyra and his wife Cindy of the Stoughton Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors; Jay Farley of Farley Funeral Home; Sue Hargreaves of Stoughton Public Library; Leo Fay of the Board of Assessors; Bernie Planeta, District Commander of Amvets; Dennis McCarthy of Cedar Hill Operations Committee, and his wife Lorraine, former Secretary for Friends for Seniors; Sons of Italy cooking crew Dennis Gada and Mike Sammarco; DPW Superintendent John Batchelder; Retired State Police Lt. and Chief Search Committee member Bill Murphy; CPA Jerry Savage, the Campaign Treasurer, and his wife Sheryl, Executive Director of College Advancement at Massassoit Community College in Canton; and, finally, the candidate's lovely wife, Mary Beth.

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STOUGHTON RESIDENTS ATTEND PREMIERE

Stoughton residents Ed Wormald and Melanie Cobb, along with Peter and Shayne Vacca of Brockton, taken on the red carpet at the Premiere Party for National Geographic Channel’s new show, WICKED TUNA.  About 400 people attended the screening and party at the Wilbur Theatre on March 27^th. ( Pictured left to right are:  Peter Vacca, Shayne Vacca, Ed Wormald, and Melanie Cobb.) Wormald and Cobb are owners of the Corner Cafe, at School and Canton Streets. Their son Kenny has done the Red Carpet. He's the star of the recent motion picture, "Footloose."

 

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PANERA BREAD EASTER COOKIE DECORATINGto Benefit Children's Hospital

The cookie fundraiser was Saturday from 3-6 p.m. for Children's Hospital in Boston. It attracted a few dozen families, including Myra Gretsky of Stoughton, and her granddaughter Jocelyn of Abington (top photo). They did some fun cookie deocrating at Panera Bread in Stoughton on Saturday, March 31. It was for charity, and the kids loved it! In middle photo, the Michel family, Jovana and Jaylah, from Brockton, with their mom. Below, some of the finished products on display. Delish!

 

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HOP TO IT EASTER EGG HUNT
April 1, 2012 @ Old Colony YMCA in Stoughton The Old Colony YMCA in Stoughton held a "Hop to It!" Easter event on April 1st. Children searched for the Golden Eggs, which contained a prize ticket. Children, and their families, also got to play wiffle ball, climb ropes, do crafts under the pavilion, play soccer, and do the gaga pit. Fun was had by all!

FUN AT THE FAIREveryone had a blast at the Hansen School Fair 2012. There was exciting raffles, delicious baked goods, face painting, yard sales, and even a fun Patch Photo Booth (See Jeff and Christine above left). Andrew Kellogg has a fun time at the Yard Sale table with Hannah Mace, Amanda Barucci, Alessandra Loffredo, and his daughter Tori.

(Photos by Mark Snyder)

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RAISING FUNDS FOR STOUGHTON HEAVYWEIGHT

Raising the Flag

Christine Iacobucci and her daughter Isabella attended the September 11th ceremony at the Stoughton Fire Station on Freeman Street late last year, and when her daughter sang three lines (“I love my Country. I love my freedom. I love my flag and independence day!”), it thrilled the crowd, and surprised her. What really struck her there, and at Town  Meeting,  was the enormous 30 by 60 foot flag that flew from a Stoughton Fire Department ladder truck. Iacobucci’s young daughter wondered why it didn’t fly during all the holidays, from July 4, to Memorial Day, to Veterans Day. What she discovered was that Stoughton borrowed the flags, from the Towns of Randolph and Canton.  So was born a fund-raising campaign. Iacobucci, who writes a parenting column for Stoughton Patch, conducted a fundraiser and secured all the funds needed to buy the enormous flag for the Stoughton Fire Department to fly! Her "Raise the Flag" campaign wound up with a presentation on March 20 before the Board of Selectmen. Bella presented a citation and the flag to Stoughton Fire Chief Mark Dolloff. Residents had been generous, and Christine and Isabella became an inspiration for citizens---rewarded with a standing ovation by the Town Hall crowd. If you see something your community needs, stand up and work for it. These two did. A round of applause!

(Photos by Mark Snyder)

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HONORING TOWN MANAGER FRANK CRIMMINS

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Sullivan Tire has Chamber Ribbon Cutting

Members of the Stoughton Chamber of Commerce helped Sullivan Tire with their opening ribbon cutting ceremony on Tuesday, March 20. Participants then went to Sons of Italy to enjoy some Italian cooking by Mike Sammarco. Pictured (l to r) are Stoughton Fire Lt. Buddy O'Neil, Eastern Bank Manager Franz Antoine, Chamber Executive Director Terry Schneider, Mark Offstein of Costco, Sullivan's Bob Kelly, Supervisor of South Shore locations; Chamber member Bernie Planeta of Planet Security, Chamber Vice Chairman Mark Snyder of PMPNetwork, Inc., Sullivan Stoughton Manager Anthony Trimachi, Chamber Board member Cindy Pazyra of Van Fenwick Press and Chairman Chris Petrie of Windsor Tire; Sullivan Sales & Service Director Bob Parker; Sullivan Marketing Director Mark Gillard, Marketing Department's Mark Sullivan, Chamber Board member realtor Fred Yaitanes, Sandra Davis of All Care Home Health Services, Ellen Greene, co-Associate Director of the Old Colony YMCA Stoughton Branch, realtor Nadine Israel of the Fred & Nadine Team, and Chamber Board member Lester Davis of All Care Home Health Services.

(Photos by Joanne Schneider)

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Party All Night Long March Madness Fundraiser
A Gigantic Success!

New Pond Village, a real estate development located off Turnpike Street in Stoughton, was built as an over-55 adult community. The State overuled the Zoning Board and the location is open to any age. The homes are small, and well-designed. The two bedroom I looked at had separate bathrooms and walk-in closets for both bathrooms, and was under $325,000. Century 21 C &S Properties is the listing broker. Pictured (l to r) are Michael Pires, Teresa Teixeira, Nina Lane, Manager Jeff Ledin, and Coleen Polillio. More details at PondViewVillage.net.

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O'Regan Brings Business to Stoughton Restaurant

It was a spur of the moment idea from Campaign Manager Shawn Croke and others within the Committee to Elect Bob O'Regan Selectmen. Get together on St. Patrick's Day, drum up some interest in the campaign, and help a new business that just opened. So, Charl's Restaurant, located downtown next to the defunct Stoughton Cinema, had about 60 people come in and eat and drink and support a new business and a campaign. O'Regan told Snyder's Stoughton, "Fixing the downtown is a major goal that we have to work together to achieve. That means attracting and supporting new businesses there.".Faces In Crowd: Selectmen John Anzivino and John Stagnone; former selectmen Lou Gitto, Bob Mullen, Tony Sousa, Ed DeFelice; School Committee members Allan Mills, Joyce Husseini, Deb Sovinee; former School Committee members Dr. Erdem Ural and Peter Banis; Retired Youth Commission Director Dr. Kathleen Cronin; Conservation Commission members David Asack and Dori Frankel.

(Photos by Hank Herbowy)

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SAMMARCO WELL DONE--AND CHARITIES GET COOKING

The giant sneaker, a gag gift from roaster Joe Mokrisky, has $750 in
cash stuffed in it by the end of the night.
Frank Crimmins shared jokes he's used at the last four events.
A capacity crowd filled the VFW Hall to roast Mike Sammarco
Donnie Connors gave Mike a seat belt to hold him in
when he falls asleep at the wheel on his riding mower.
Rich Jasmin gets in the roasting mood Mike's son, Michael Jr. joins in the ribbing.
Rick Kaplan gets in a few jabs.
Panera Bread provided the refreshments
Fred Yaitanes takes his shots.
Lots of hot air was delivered by the M.C.
Sammarco says thanks and, "Got any more money?"

Oh, what a night! About 125 people gathered Saturday night (3/10) at the VFW Hall in Stoughton to roast long-time Stoughton Babe Ruth Baseball director Mike Sammarco, who is also a well known cook at the Sons of Italy. The talk was of his meatballs and chicken cutlets, but attendees got dessert and coffee from Panera Bread. The event, sponsored by the Stoughton Chamber of Commerce, was a huge success. Over $2000 was raised for the Chamber's charitable endeavors and almost a grand was raised for Stoughton Babe Ruth baseball. Event Chair Cindy Pazyra, with her committee (Fred Yaitanes, Rick Kaplan, Chris Petrie, Terry Schneider--with an assist from Joanne Schneider) pulled together a wonderful event, that featured a dozen people taking shots at the popular Sammarco. Planning Board Chairman Joe Scardino started off the night, with a slide presentation. Sammarco serves on the Planning Board (occasionally). Next up was a familiar face--his son Mike Jr. who lovingly poked fun at his dad. Realtor Fred Yaitanes was next, followed by Rich Jasmin, co-owner of Dirt Daws in Canton, and a Stoughton DPW employee. Donnie Connors, another co-owner of Dirt Dawg, followed Jasmin. Long-time coach and volunteer Tom Flaherty went sixth, and was followed by Don Interrante, a Board member of Friends for Seniors, and part of Mike's "cooking squad." Former Selectman (and current candidate) Joe Mokrisky presented Sammarco with a giant sneaker from Reebok, and suggested he get it filled with cash for Babe Ruth. By the end of the night, $750 or so was in it, including the $258 that Ken Martin won in the 50/50 raffle, and promptly donated back for the cause. DPW Superintendent John Batchelder was the next up to entertain the crowd, which got many laughs during the night. Former Chamber Chairman of the Board businessman Rick Kaplan followed Batchelder, and Town Manager (for another 19 days) Frank Crimmins took the podium and turned it into a St. Patrick's Day celebration, with some humorous yarns. Finishing off the night was former Stoughton Little League president Dan Skiba, who discussed the Sammarco method of accounting--keeping cash in paper bags.

Jeff Connors of Audio PA Systems provided sound, and Rick Sinnot of Stoughton Media Access Corp. taped the event for future airing on local TV. I wish I could have written some of the funnier comments down, but I was busy hosting it. Faces In the Crowd: There were a lot of well-known faces, many on the dias. I spotted Selectmen John Stagnone, John Anzivino, Steve Anastos, and John Anderson. Former Selectman Joe Pascarelli and Bob Mullen; Selectman candidate Bob O'Regan; FinCom member and School Committee candidate Dr. Erdem Ural, Planning Board member Billy Angelos, Norfolk Sherrif's Department's David Sheehan; FinCom members Dr. Roberta Camacho and Jim Gearin; and Realtor Walter Parshley. Excuse me if I missed a few--I was trying to remember my lines!

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DAWE PTO HOLDS TITLE TOWN EVENTDJ Ra-Mu leads everyone in the "YMCA" dance
A table enjoying liquid refreshmentD.J. Ra-Mu leads the dancing at the Dawe PTO event

Over 40 people came to show their Team Spirit Friday night, March 2nd, for an Adult Social, put on by the Dawe School PTO as a FUNdraiser. It was an evening of friends, food, and fun– without the kids – all in support of Dawe PTO programs! The Party was held at the Club Luiz de Camoes, and included a buffet dinner, a 50/50 Raffle, silent auction, dancing, cash bar, and even an old fashioned photo booth for $2. Amanda Smith chaired the event. She thanked the food donors, which included: D'Angelos, TGI Fridays, Not Your Average Joe's, Papa John's, Stellio's, and Dennenos. The
Table Sponsors, including Farley Funeral Home, New England Drain Services, Stoughton Co-Op Bank, Stoughton Mobil Mart, and The McColl Family. And a special thanks to the over 30 local businesses that provided items for the auction.

(photos and story by Mark Snyder) Corner Cafe Opens

At the former site of the Stoughton Coffee Shop, The Corner Cafe opened this morning (February 27). Located at the corner of School Street and Canton Street, the small spot is looking to attract a crowd with good food with an excellent presentation. Owners Melanie Cobb and Ed Wormald will be serving breakfast and lunch everyday. Ed told Snyder's Stoughton, "We just want to pay the bills and make sure our customers leave happy. We're going to serve fresh, quality food. We'd like to move to a bigger space eventually." Cobb told me, "We wanted to create a warm, friendly and comfortable place. It's decorated to be inviting and warm, like when you go to visit a friend. The food is all fresh and homemade. Ed is a fabulous cook. He enjoys making people happy with his food. Ed and Melanie are the parents of Stoughton High grad, TV and film dancer and actor Kenny Wormald ("Footloose"), as well as Dylan (8th grader at OMS) and Lee (Senior at SHS). The Corner Cafe was previously Best Pals, and 79 Canton Street has a long history in the town, tracing back to a variety store and coffee shop decades ago that was known as "little town hall." (Remember J.DeVito and Company?) Specialties at the new Corner Cafe include Corner Corned Beef Platter (3 eggs, homemade corned beef hash, home fries, toast and hollandaise sauce) for $9.25 and Combo Platter (2 eggs any style, 2 pancakes or french toast, 2 bacon or sausage or 1 ham, and home fries.) for $8.

(Story and photos by Mark Snyder. Left to right in photo: James Thibeault, Brenda Wormald (Ed's mom), Ed Wormald and Melanie Cobb.)

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L.A. Fitness Opens Wednesday

L.A. Fitness, a national fitness chain, will open a branch adjacent to Target Store and across from T.G.I. Friday's Restaurant on Hawes Way, on Route 139 in Stoughton. Nick Calla is the new General Manager of the expansive facility, which opens on Leap Day, Wednesday, February 29. This is the 5th L.A. Fitness location in Massachusetts. The closest is the one in Walpole. This will be L.A. Fitness's 538th location in the United States, including the 174 locations they purchased from Bally's Fitness. Based on membership numbers alone, L.A. Fitness is the largest chain in the United States, according to Calla. Taylor Long is the District Vice President who covers all of the Massachusetts locations, and two in Connecticut. The Stoughton branch features 5 racquetball courts, a full length pool, a co-ed jacuzzi that seats 10-12, a spinning room with 40 bikes, a large group exercise room, a juice bar, and a Kids Klub (a child care center, open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to noon, and weekdays from 4-8 p.m.). The club is opening with five personal trainers, and hopes to expand to 15. The Saugus L.A. Fitness location has 16,000 members. The Stoughton Club would love to reach those types of numbers. The club is huge, and features 3 or 4 of each of the dozens of Life Fitness machines, as well as free weights. All the cardio equipment (with individual TV's) is located upstairs. Downstairs are the free weights, and exercise machines. Unlike Stoughton Old Colony YMCA location, which offers indoor and outdoor pools, camp, pre-school and after school care, L.A. Fitness is looking for adults, and limits memberships to those 14 and over. Mom and dads with young children are invited to work out and leave the kids at Kids Klub. (Story by Mark Snyder. Photos provided by L.A. Fitness from similar locations, except front door photo by Mark Snyder. They would not allow me to take photos inside the empty building.)

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FAMILY DOLLAR OPENS

 

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LIONS CLUB INSTALLATION

 

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Storyteller & Charity Event at Shaloh House

Shaloh House Chabad of the South Area hosted a storyteller and performed a great act of charity during their “Pillows, Pajama’s and Stories, Family Havdalah Service” on Feb. 4^th 2012.  Eleven years ago, Shaloh House, an outreach center for the South Area, was looking for a way to connect the families from their Synagogue, Hebrew School & Preschool along with other families in the local community. There had to be a way to bring all these families together in the middle of the winter. That’s how the Annual Family Havdalah Storyteller program was started.  Every year the families came together on a Saturday night for the Havdalah Ceremony, a short prayer to conclude Shabbat, followed by an evening with a storyteller and yummy homemade cookies!This year, in direct response to the BOSTON BRUINS appeal for support of their Pajama Drive families were asked to bring a new pair of children’s pajamas to donate.  The pajamas will go to children served by the Cradles to Crayons organization.  We are proud of the showing of Tzedakah (charity) by our community with over 35 pair of new pajamas collected for the drive!The evening was a hit with renowned storyteller Mark Binder.  Mark, who lives in Rhodes Island, is part of the Jewish Storytelling Coalition and has performed for Shaloh House in the past. His stories are entertaining and loved by children and adults alike. Children in the Preschool, Kindergarten and Hebrew school programs are taught about Tzedakah (charity), Tikun Olam (healing the world) and Mitzvot (doing acts of kindness).  Programs that combine all of these virtues a fun environment help to build the bridge for bringing learning to life!

(Courtesy Photos from Marilyn Rabinoviz. Avigail Flig of Sharon and Hazel McBurney & Sonya Gurkow, both of Stoughton; came dressed in pajamas for the annual Pillows, Pajamas & Stories event at Shaloh House. Raquelle Winokur of Stoughton cuddles in the lap of big sister Michela Winokur as she listens intently to storyteller Mark Binder at the annual Pillows, Pajamas & Stories event at Shaloh House.)

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Happy 30th Birthday to Stoughton's
Acting Chief Procurement Officer, Lindsay Pope

Pope shared her 30th with friends at Town Hall on Friday, February 25. She turns 30 on the 26th. Pope, who has objected to the procurement methods of the school department, was asked by jokingly by Snydcr's Stoughton if she had procured the two cakes properly. She responded, yes I procured them sliding my credit card at the supermarket."

Photos by Mark Snyder

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Double Impact Play the Town Spa

Nicole Caramanica and Joe "Kidd" Fernandes christened the new Henry's Lounge downtairs at Town Spa last week. The new room will feature entertainment on Friday nights, according to owner Dick Phillips, who is considering dinner & a show specials downstairs.

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FOOD DRIVE ENDING SOON

Malcolm and Parsons Insurance Company in downtown Stoughton is collecting food for the food pantries in Stoughton until the end of February. They had a celebrity stop by---Jimmy Maher, who had a role in the movie "The Town." Pictured by the collection basket (left to right are Johanna Lafond, Jimmy Maher , Audrey Duross, Amne Parsons, Lynn LeCourt, Jack Raeke, Brittany Poissant, and Jamie Gonsalves. All but Jimmy Maher are employees of Malcolm and Parsons. Photo by Jim Moran, who is the brainchild of the fundraiser. Raeke tells Snyder's Stoughton, ". You don't have to be a big movie star to come donate food! Time is running out-- our drive ends the end of February, 2012"

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Community Sharing
of Glen Echo Stories
Fills Clapp Building

MARKING NATIONAL CHILDREN’S DENTAL HEALTH MONTH and calling attention to the importance of oral hygiene, staff of ARCH Orthodontics hosted an exhibit at a recent Open House sponsored by the Stoughton Branch of the Old Colony YMCA.  Greeting members and visitors in the Y’s main lobby are (seated), Certified Dental Assistant Rebecca Horne of Attleboro, MA, and Dental Assistant Sarah Lochiatto of Stoughton.  Standing (left to right) are Office Manager Lucy Cobb of Stoughton, Jenn Gordon of Pembroke,  Patient Treatment Coordinator, and ARCH Orthodontist Dr. Roger Taylor.  ARCH Orthodontics has offices in Stoughton, Bridgewater, Brockton, Canton, Hyde Park, Randolph and Westwood, and on Cape Cod in Hyannis and Orleans. ARCH, the Official Orthodontist of Miss Massachusetts, offers free consultations:  1-800-28- SMILE, email smilemaker@archorthodontics.com or visit www.archorthodontics.com.    

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BENEFIT FOR THE HOMELESS NETS $4000

 

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200 Walk To Raise Funds for the Playground Expansion at
Bradley M. Lessa Memorial Park

On a beautiful sunny Columbus Day, over 200 people--young and old--took to the streets for a 1.8 mile walk to raise funds for an expansion of Bradley Lessa Memorial Park on West Street. Volunteers from the Police and Fire Departments played an active role in keeping the walkers safe, and the fire department volunteers drove Council on Aging vans to shuttle the walkers from the playground to the Gibbons School. IKEA PR Director Laura Alves, along with IKEA employees Sophy Tuttle, Carlos Ramos, and Josh Wilson, planted five red maple trees from seeds of Walden Woods trees. Alves said they are considered historic trees because they were grown from the seeds of red maple trees that author Henry David Thoreau sat under while he wrote "Walden." IKEA gave away 150 tree seedlings as part of their Plant A Tree Program, as well. Hundreds of people had a great time, enjoying a slide show, music, and barbecue, while helping to expand one of Stoughton's shining locations for its children. 

Photos by Mark Snyder A PERSONAL NOTE FROM THE LESSA FAMILY:

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OVER $4000 RAISED FOR STRONG KIDS CAMPAIGN

Stoughton's own Singer-Songwriter Lori McKenna was featured Saturday, October 1st at the Sharon Community Center, in a fundraiser for the Old Colony YMCA's Strong Kids campaign. Chairperson was Kathleen Stern. The Y's Serah Selmon said early Sunday morning that over $4,000 was raised for the campaign, that helps children and families pay for summer camp and memberships. 200 people enjoyed a great concert, liquid refreshment, dessert and auction to help out the children.

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Stoughton Life Teen collects for Friends of the Unborn, in a Baby Drive at Immaculate Conception Church.

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MEDEIROS TEAM OF HOPE The event, hampered by the weather, still attracted hundreds of people Sunday. Photo by Mark Snyder

Seniors Enjoy Barbecue & Music

The Stoughton Community Events Committee sponsored a summer senior barbecue on Sunday, August 14, and it was a delicious sellout. But, why shouldn't it be? There was FREE admission, and everyone got hamburgers, hot dogs, potato salad, chips, cheesecake, and entertainment from Olde Kids on the Block. Joe Mokrisky, Chairman of the SCEC, was happy at the turnout, and the smiling faces on those attending. "Stoughton is a great place. There are just so many positive things going on here," he told me. Mokrisky was joined by a number of fellow committee members. Denis Donoghue manned the grill, and produce hundreds of perfectly cooked hot dogs and burgers. Fran Stetson was stationed at the door, checking in all those who had registered for the event. Among the many volunteers working hard setting up, cleaning up, and serving were SCEC members Kevin Stetson, Heather Genereux, Bob Desmond, Dennis and Carlene Walsh, Maria Simas, Susie Gross, and Lynne McCormack. Council on Aging Director Karen Hall was working hard. So were her COA Board members Candace Fisher (the Chairman of the COA Board) , Michael Hirsch, and Joe Flynn. Volunteers from the Immaculate Conception Church's Life Teen program included Christine Corletto, Sean Ivaldi, Taylor Anglin, Lindsey Hughes, Jenna Baez, and Linda Pane.

David Milley gets a personal song from Olde Kids singer Mara Castle. Fran Stetson Checks in Barbara Fallon at Senior Barbecue

PHOTOS & STORY BY MARK SNYDER

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Morrissey Summer Barbecue

The Morrissey Committee held their annual summer barbecue at the Ocean Club in Marina Bay last night (7/28) to benefit Norfolk County District Attorney Michael Morrissey was a huge success. Hundreds of people turned out on a beautiful summer evening, and enjoyed an amazing view of the Bay. The Ocean Club didn't impress anyone with their food, however, Raw burgers, hot dogs and pizza do not a barbecue make. But, numerous supporters came out for Morrissey, a former State Senator (D-Quincy), who ran for the seat when Bill Keating ran for Congress. Morrissey has already distinguished himself with some innovative new programs. Stoughton was well-represented there. Paul Wilder, who works for Morrissey in the D.A.'s office, is a Stoughton resident. Other Faces in the Crowd included Stoughton Town Manager Francis T. Crimmins, Stoughton Police Chief Paul Shastany, Finance Committee members Ed DeFelice and Peter Vantresco, Housing Authority Chairman Arthur Slate, Snyder's Stoughton & Patch contributing photographer Hank Herbowy, and veteran Warren West. (Photos by Hank Herbowy)

(Contributed by Debbie McNamara, who also did the photos)

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Lisa Jacobs and Theresa Ronan
Joe Kidd (left) and with Joe Kidd Band

(Mark Snyder photos)

Fundraiser for SFD Local 1512
@ Texas Roadhouse, Westgate Mall Brockton

Stoughton Firefighters Union Local 1512 held a successful fundraiser on July 13th at the Texas Roadhouse in Brockton.  According to Local 1512 president Peter Denneno, "Donations will be used to fund our good and welfare fund which helps us help others.  So come on out on the 13th for good times and great food." Dozens of supporters came to the Roadhouse and dined on some great barbecue food, with 10% of the proceeds going to Local 1512. Pictured above at the fundraiser are (l to r) Lt. Jay McNamara, Lt. Jim Rush, Lt. Jim Campbell, Lt. Jim Curtin, and FF Jack Hussey. A great time was had by all!
(Above Photo by Mark Snyder)

Rhonda Vito, Mark and Dan Snyder at the Firefighter's Fundraiser (Photo by Christine Iacobucci)

 Fourth of July Weekend 2011

FAMILY FUN DAY!
McKenzie Lehane gets a "tattoo" from Artist Adriana Rajman
Aidan Lewis gets "tattoo" from Artist Katie Fogarty
Contestants in the Bike Decorating Contest Line Up
Eric Boykin and Aidan Myles Rev Up Their Bikes
Victoria "disco dollie" Dantzler gets her bike, as
well as herself, decorated for July 4
John Wells of The Event Connection is Emcee of Kid's Day festivities All Photos by Mark Snyder JULY 4 CONCERT & FIREWORKS

Ronnie Lewis and the Expedition did another amazing job entertaining thousands of concert-goers at Stoughton High School on July 3rd. Under threatening skies, the band--under a tent--rocked the night away, with Lewis working hard and delivering solid rock and roll nuggets to the grateful crowd. Lewis, who graduated Stoughton High School as Ronnie DiGangi, has had a career that has spanned over 40 years, including hit records with the Lewis & Clark Expedition. His backing band kicked some musical butt, and provided the perfect accompaniment to his vocals. Keyboard player Steve Seropia, bass player Bob Sproule, Walter O'Brien (a drummer with a great singing voice), Ronnie's brother guitarist and vocalist Butch DeGangi, and sax player David Morill all took turns shining in the spotlight. Roger Caissie of High Voltage Sound did a great job with the audio. The Allied Veteran Council sold hot dogs, sausages and bugers, with all the proceeds helping out needy veterans. Veterans Agent Mike Pazyra was among the Faces In the Crowd, along with Selectman John Anderson, former Selectman and Community Events Committee Chairman Joe Mokrisky, FinCom Vice Chair Rick Hill, and Acting Fire Chief Mark Dolloff, whose ladder truck once again sported a huge flag. There was also a carnival taking place at the O'Donnell Middle School lot, featuring artist Erick Granados doing caricatures, and others doing sand art, and hat painting. I had a fried oreo (a $2 clump of delicious fatty cholesterol, with fried dough on the outside, and an oreo cookie on the inside.). The Community Events Committee made $500 from the carnival. The Fireworks, sponsored by a generous donation from Stoughton IKEA, was once again an intensely entertaining experience!

Above Photos by Mark Snyder

Mark Hosting July 3 Concert (photo by Cindy Pazyra)

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   PARADE A HUGE SUCCESS

It was a hot one, that's for sure. But, this year's July 4th parade was another big success for the Stoughton Community Events Committee. Thousands turned out along the route to watch a variety of acts perform, and to see an interesting array of vehicles. Before the parade, a few dozen people played trivia with this columnist, and a walked away with gift certificates courtesy of MacDonald's in Stoughton. Jeff Connors, a Stoughton resident and owner of Audio PA Systems, provided the sound, and allowed the downtown crowd to hear what was going on. And, there was a lot going on. First there was the roar of the police vehicles, and Police Chief Paul Shastany and Executive Officer Robert Devine the leading the parade on foot. Police vehicles included cruisers, paddy wagons, bicyles, and four wheel off-road vehicles. Then, there was the parade of Fire Engines and Ladder Trucks, led by the vehicle of Acting Fire Chief Mark Dolloff. Other local fire departments, including Holbrook, Avon, Bridgewater, West Bridgewater and Easton also appeared in the parade. Dave Sheehan of the Norfolk County Sheriff's Department, and the VFW Honor Guard were next. On foot, Selectmen John Stagnone, John Anzivino, John Anderson, and Steve Anastos were joined by Moderator Howard Hansen and Town Manager Francis T. Crimmins, Jr. Selectman Cynthia Walsh rode with her nephew, town meeting member John Walsh, Jr. Then, School Committee Chairman Joyce Husseini and SC members Allan Mills, George Dolinsky, and Deb Sovinee marched. State Senator Brian Joyce handed out his patented blue balloons while marching with his family. Also doing the long walk in the hot sun was Norfolk County District Attorney Michael Morrissey. The Stoughton Housing Authority (with Peter Buckley), the Boy Scout Troops (with Scoutmaster John Walsh), and Girl Scouts were next. Then, came the winners of the Bicycle, Carriage and Trike contests from yesterday's Family Field Day. They included: Nancy Reed, Hannah Gleason, Gavin Alexson, Audrey Fresina, Lila Rogers, Eric Boykin, Hannah Mace, Alla Parcewski, Arianna Fresina, Victoria Dantzler, Tanner Rogers and Emma McSweeny. Lou's Custom Exhaust, The Elite Health & Fitness Hummer (with Kevin "Guns" Wilson aboard), the Honey Dew Donuts Truck (with owner Gary Lewis), and one of the original Coca Cola Trucks (which now houses Worcester Light & Sound) were next. Bob Dupont drove a DPW machine and did a 180 with it, while Andrew Patterson drove a DPW ten wheeler. John Sawyer and his son cruised by in a 1966 Rambler, while Rich Jasmin drove a flatbed featuring the rock band, "24 South." The South Shore Corvette Club, South Shore Antique Club, and Model T Club all came by with some very beautiful and sometimes rare automobiles. The American and National League Stoughton Majors Champions were on trucks, led by their managers Paul Sullivan and Paul Trombley. The first entertainment came from the Titans Drum and Bugle Corps. then the Mass Brass Brand (in a truck owned by Ralph Sellito of Stoughton.) One element of the Parade that didn't go down well with the crowd was "Bob's Showtime", a truck owned by Bob & Jean Raymond of Epping, NH, that literally left rubber and blew smoke in the face of dozens of people. This was supposed to be entertaining, but those in the crowd I spoke to were only annoyed. The Girls Bantom Softball Champs came by next, along with the Hot Tomale Brass Band, and a six wheeler from the DPW, driven by Al Pedro. Maxx Force, driven by Michael Varner and carrying the No Bullying Banner, was next, followed closely by the Boston Windjammers, led by Russ Weisman. The Middle School sports champs were followed closely by the 14 & 15 year old Babe Ruth Baseball champs. Stoughton's Tibby Arujo drove by in a 1955 Chevy, and then the grande finale was Canada's Stentors Drum and Bugle Corps. I was honored to once again be able to host the Parade. The Stoughton Community Events Committee deserves another round of applause! The Committee is Joe Mokrisky, Chairman; Bob Desmond, Vice Chairman;Heidee Anastos, Michael Beder , Ron Dardano, Maria Faria, Heather Genereux, Susie Gross, Janet Jasmin, Lynne McCormack, Sgt. Dan McGowan, Paula Meyers, Nancy Patterson, Reggie Kowalczykowski, Laurice Rubel, Fran Stetson, Kevin Stetson, Brian Walsh, Carlene Walsh, Dennis Walsh, John Walsh, Jr. and Rachel Ann Walsh. Cheers to all. See you all next at the Christmas Parade!

(Photos by Jeff Pickette. Courtesy of Stoughton Patch)
FinCom member Barbara Anzivino wins at Trivia.

The Nasty Truck

The truck I wrote about in my article. Thanks to Heidi Tucker for this photo.

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ANNUAL SENIORS SUMMER BARBECUE

Selectman John Anderson (a former Chairman of the Council on Aging); Jose Deana, custodian for COA; Andrew Hall (COA Director Karen Hall's husband), and Friends for Seniors Board member Don Interrante all cook for the Annual Seniors Barbecue on June 30th at the Stoughton Senior Center. Entertainment was provided by Dave Cuddy. Seniors enjoyed hamburgers, hot dogs, chips and watermelon. Karen Hall played host, as well as acting as a server. Selectman Cynthia Walsh was among the crowd of seniors enjoying lunch. (Photos by Hank Herbowy)
Even I got to help serve the watermelon!

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