WSAR NEWS

New Bedford Prep for Lee

New Bedford, MA – The National Weather Service Boston Office has issued a Tropical Storm Watch for Southern Bristol County including New Bedford.

 

Winds will increase on Friday and remain gusty through Saturday night. Tropical storm-force winds are expected late Friday night and Saturday near the coast. Buzzards Bay is not anticipated to experience a significant storm surge, but residents are advised to beware of possible rip currents and heavy surf on ocean-facing beaches.

 

Heavy rains may also produce localized flooding in low-lying areas. 

 

City Beaches, CoveWalk, HarborWalk, Fort Taber, and City-Operated Boat Ramps Closed Effective Friday, September 15, at 8:00 p.m.


City Beaches, CoveWalk, HarborWalk, and Fort Taber will be closed to the public effective Friday, September 15, at 8:00 p.m.

 

Police will be making regular patrols of the South End beaches, HarborWalk, CoveWalk, and Fort Taber, and will remove people from those areas. Information regarding re-openings will be provided in future updates. 

 

Possible Closure of the New Bedford Hurricane Barrier Navigation Gate


The Army Corps of Engineers may make a determination regarding the closure of the New Bedford Hurricane Barrier in conjunction with high tide events.

 

The New Bedford Port Authority encourages all vessel owners to make arrangements for berthing or hauling in the harbor as far in advance of the arrival of storm conditions as possible. Vessel owners should monitor the usual channels for updates on the status of the Navigation Gate.

 

Buttonwood Park Zoo Closed on Saturday, September 16


Buttonwood Park Zoo will be closed to the public on Saturday, September 15.


The City of New Bedford Recycling Center Closed on Saturday, September 16

 

The Recycling Center located at 1103 Shawmut Ave. will be closed on Saturday, September 15.

 

New Bedford Regional Airport to Remain Open As Long as Safe


The New Bedford Regional Airport will remain in operation for as long as it remains safe. Passengers should contact their air carriers, including Cape Air, directly to confirm their flight status.

 

Hurricane Preparedness Tips for Residents and Business Owners

 

Mayor Jon Mitchell advises residents and business owners to review the “Hurricane Preparedness Checklist” available on the city webpage (https://www.newbedford-ma.gov/emergency-

management/prepared/) and to take proactive steps to protect their property from rain and wind damage.

Important Emergency Contact Numbers

•    To report a downed power line, medical, fire, or other emergencies, please dial 911.


•    In the event of power loss, residents are encouraged to call Eversource at 1-800-592-2000

(Residents should not assume that an outage affecting their location has already been reported.) Eversource strongly urges the public to stay away from all down wires and to report them immediately.


•    The New Bedford Police Department can also be reached on its non-emergency line at (508) 991-6350.


 

Red Sox announce departure of Chaim Bloom

BOSTON, MA – The Boston Red Sox today announced that they have parted ways with Chief Baseball Officer Chaim Bloom.

 

Bloom was notified of the club’s decision by Red Sox Principal Owner John Henry, Chairman Tom Werner, and President & CEO Sam Kennedy.

 

“While parting ways is not taken lightly, today signals a new direction for our club,” said Principal Owner John Henry. “Our organization has significant expectations on the field and while Chaim’s efforts in revitalizing our baseball infrastructure have helped set the stage for the future, we will today begin a search for new leadership.

 

Everyone who knows Chaim has a deep appreciation and respect for the kind of person he is. His time with us will always be marked by his professionalism, integrity, and an unwavering respect for our club and its legacy.”

 

Bloom was named Chief Baseball Officer on October 28, 2019. He has worked in baseball for 19 years, starting as an intern for the Tampa Bay Rays, where he spent 15 years of his career preceding his time with the Red Sox.

 

In addition to this change, General Manager Brian O’Halloran has been offered a new senior leadership position within the baseball operations department.

 

The search for new baseball operations leadership will begin immediately. In the interim, the day-to-day operations will continue under the direction of O’Halloran, and Assistant General Managers Eddie Romero, Raquel Ferreira, and Michael Groopman.

West Nile Virus Confirmed in Mosquitoes from Fall River

(FALL RIVER, MA-SEPTEMBER 13, 2023)- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) announced today that West Nile virus (WNV) has been detected in mosquitoes collected from Fall River, Massachusetts.  

This year there have been 3 human cases of WNV in Massachusetts, all of which have occurred in the last two weeks. Since the beginning of June, there have been 118 positive mosquito samples across the Commonwealth. 

WNV is most commonly transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. With the increased activity of the virus among mosquitoes in our area, there is also an increased risk of human infection. While WNV can infect people of all ages, people over the age of 50 are at higher risk for severe infection.  
 

Governor Healey Signs Executive Order Establishing Youth Advisory Council Applications available through October 14

BOSTON – Today, Governor Maura T. Healey signed Executive Order #617 establishing the Governor’s Youth Advisory Council to advise the Governor, Lieutenant Governor and the entire administration on critical issues impacting Massachusetts, such as civic engagement, education, the environment, housing, and youth violence.   


Applications to join the Youth Advisory Council will be available through October 14 for Massachusetts residents aged 16-21.  


“I’ve been so inspired by the young people I’ve met who have been making their voices heard and demanding more from their leaders on the most pressing issues facing Massachusetts. They deserve a seat at the table,” said Governor Healey. “Young people are uniquely positioned to advise us on policies related to climate, education, mental health, gun violence and more – because they’ve grown up confronting these issues and it’s their futures that will be most impacted by the decisions we make today. I encourage young people across Massachusetts to apply for the council and help us meet the moment to make Massachusetts more affordable, competitive and equitable for all.”  


“This is a great opportunity to bring together the innovative ideas and inspiring energy of young people across the state to deliver results for Massachusetts,” said Lieutenant Governor Driscoll. “We want all voices in Massachusetts to be heard, because we are all impacted by the decisions government makes. We look forward to working with this council to address the issues of today and the future together.” 


The Council will include at least one from each county. They will be appointed to two-year terms and will meet with Governor Healey and Lieutenant Governor Driscoll quarterly.  


“The innovation and creativity of our Massachusetts youth are unmatched,” said Secretary of Education Patrick Tutwiler. “They’re all eager to be involved in civic engagement and have a hand at creating policies that will impact them and their peers. I am excited to work with and support this council to amplify the perspectives of our students and to conquer what matters most.”
 
Applications are due by 11:59 PM on October 14, 2023. For more information visit mass.gov/youthcouncil. 
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Patriots Sign Two Players to the Practice Squad The New England Patriots announced today that they signed QB Ian Book and rookie DB William Hooper to the practice squad.

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – The New England Patriots announced today that they signed QB Ian Book and rookie DB William Hooper to the practice squad.

 

   Book, 25, originally was drafted by New Orleans in the fourth-round (133rd overall) of the 2021 NFL Draft out of Notre Dame. The 6-foot, 206-pounder, started and made his NFL debut on Dec. 27, 2021 vs. Miami and finished 12-of-20 for 135 yards.

 

He was released by New Orleans on Aug 30, 2022 and acquired from waivers by Philadelphia on Aug. 31. Book dressed for two games last year with the Eagles but did not play. He was released by Philadelphia on Aug. 29, 2023.

 

   Hooper, 23, was originally signed by Green Bay as a rookie free agent out of Northwestern State on May 5, 2023. The 5-foot-10, 180-pounder, was released by Green Bay on Aug. 29, 2023.

 

He appeared in 46 games with 33 starts during his five collegiate seasons, posting 100 total tackles, three interceptions and 21 passes defensed.

Red Sox place right-handed pitcher Kenley Jansen on Covid-19 related injured list Club Recalls Left-Handed Pitcher Brandon Walter from Triple-A Worcester

BOSTON, MA—The Boston Red Sox today placed right-handed pitcher Kenley Jansen on the COVID-19 Related Injured List. To fill his spot on the active roster, the club recalled left-handed pitcher Brandon Walter from Triple-A Worcester.

Chief Baseball Officer Chaim Bloom made the announcement.

Jansen, 35, faced two batters in the ninth inning of last night’s game against the New York Yankees before he was removed due to fatigue and illness symptoms. The right-hander ranks sixth in the American League with 29 saves this season and is seventh on the all-time saves list with 420. Signed by the Red Sox as a free agent on December 13, 2022, the Curaçao native has posted a 3.63 ERA (18 ER/44.1 IP) in 51 appearances for Boston in 2023.

Walter, 27, has pitched in eight games for the Red Sox this season, his Major League debut, recording a 7.20 ERA (16 ER/20.0 IP). Selected by Boston in the 26th round of the 2019 First-Year Player Draft, the left-hander has also posted a 4.75 ERA (47 ER/89.0 IP) in 20 games (17 starts) for Worcester in 2023.

GulfSAR DEPLOYING TO MASSACHUSETTS FOR EVACUATION AND RESCUE

Dateline: HOUSTON, TX 5:30 AM CDT

 GulfSAR is continuously monitoring weather conditions and the projected path of Hurricane Lee.

Current forecast models have Hurricane Lee strengthening as it parallels the Eastern Coast of the US and rapidly developing into what is projected to be MAJOR Hurricane status as it approaches the Maine and Canada.

With projected rainfalls and life-threatening storm surge, catastrophic flooding could and likely will occur. Hurricane force winds are expected as early as Friday or Saturday along Massachusetts’ East Coast.

GulfSAR is deploying to Massachusetts to assist with evacuations and to stage for immediate flood and swift water rescues as Lee’s impacts are felt. Members are arriving this morning to stage.

We will provide further information and updates as the situation warrants.

_Fall River, Leominster, Pittsfield Registry Expands Services to Accommodate Customers Additional Locations for Saturday Hours and Road Tests

FALL RIVER/LEOMINSTER/PITTSFIELD- The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) is pleased to announce the expansion of locations for road tests and for Saturday hours for customers who need to conduct in-person transactions.
 
The expansion of customer service offerings is being done to accommodate existing customers and the thousands of additional new customers now eligible to apply for a driving credential under the Work and Family Mobility Act.
 
As of last Saturday, September 9, Registry Customer Service Centers in Fall River and in Leominster began to serve customers by appointments on Saturdays.  The Pittsfield Customer Service Center will begin to offer Saturday hours to those individuals with appointments on Saturday, September 16.  The Saturday appointments are available only for learner's permit, driver's license, and ID transactions.  The Fall River location is at 1794 North Main Street, the Leominster location is at 500 Research Drive and the Pittsfield location is at 333 East Street.
 
The additional road test locations now offering Class D road tests by appointment are:
 
o    AAA North Andover, 75 Turnpike Street (Route 114), North Andover, MA 01845        
o    AAA Rockland, 900 Hingham Street, Rockland, MA 02370             
o    AAA Somerset, 869 G.A.R. Highway, Somerset, MA 02726             
o    DCR Simoni Skating Rink, 155 Gore Street, Cambridge, MA 02141    
 
 
The expansion of road test sites and addition of locations for Saturday hours in September are recent steps taken by the RMV to support all Massachusetts communities due to the new Work and Family Mobility Act (WFMA), which took effect on July 1, and which has led to a higher number of customers needing RMV transactions.
 
Under the new law, eligible Massachusetts residents can apply to obtain a Standard (Class D or M) driver's license, regardless of immigration status, as the WFMA removes the requirement that residents provide proof of lawful presence in the U.S.  During 2023, the RMV identified and created informational resources specifically to help guide new customers as they begin the process to secure a Standard License credential. To further support this effort, the RMV has also worked directly with immigration advocacy groups, stakeholders, and impacted communities to facilitate and coordinate public outreach and to solicit feedback on implementation efforts so that best practices can be adopted.?? 
 
Members of the public should visit Mass.Gov/RMV to schedule appointments for services and to learn more about credential requirements, service hours, and other information. 
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Healey-Driscoll Administration Announces 2023 COASTSWEEP Beach Cleanup

BOSTON - The Healey-Driscoll Administration today announced that Saturday, September 16, will mark the official start of the 2023 COASTSWEEP beach cleanup, and members of the public are encouraged to volunteer at one of the many cleanup events planned along the coast this fall. Organized by the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs’ (EEA) Office of Coastal Zone Management (CZM), COASTSWEEP cleanups are held into early November. Since 1987, thousands of COASTSWEEP volunteers have removed hundreds of tons of marine debris and other trash from Massachusetts beaches, lakes, rivers, and the seafloor. 
 
“Massachusetts boasts more than 1,500 miles of coastline, and now is a great time to give back to the beaches we love,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “COASTSWEEP volunteers keep coastal ecosystems clean and safe while collecting important data on the sources of marine debris.” 
 
“Marine debris has serious impacts on our oceans and waterways—from harming marine life to creating navigation hazards to marring the beauty of our beaches,” said Coastal Zone Management Director Lisa Engler. “Much of the material collected during COASTSWEEP starts as litter on our streets, which washes into storm drains and out to the sea. So, in addition to volunteering for COASTSWEEP, please help reduce marine debris by properly disposing of trash all year.” 
 
COASTSWEEP is part of the International Coastal Cleanup, organized by Ocean Conservancy, and draws hundreds of thousands of volunteers to coastal cleanups in more than 150 countries worldwide. In addition to removing trash, COASTSWEEP volunteers tally the items found. This information is entered into Ocean Conservancy’s international marine debris database, where it helps researchers and policymakers better understand the sources of global marine debris and develop solutions for prevention. 
 
From plastics as tiny as a grain of sand to items as large as abandoned cars, marine debris is more than an eyesore. Sea birds, seals, and other animals can be harmed when they swallow or become entangled in these materials. Sea turtles are particularly vulnerable and can die after swallowing clear plastic bags, which look like their favorite food, jellyfish. Beachgoers can injure themselves on sharp items while walking on the sand, and boaters can become stranded when propellers are jammed with fishing lines or cooling intakes are clogged with plastic. During COASTSWEEP 2022, nearly 2,900 volunteers removed more than 9 tons of trash from 148 sites in Massachusetts. As with past years, cigarette butts were the most common item collected (18,646 total), followed by plastic pieces (9,713). Many other plastic items were removed and cataloged—including food wrappers, bottles and caps, straws, and foam packaging—for a total of 41,303 plastic items tallied on Bay State beaches. 
 
A great way to get involved in COASTSWEEP is to organize a cleanup. All supplies (bags, gloves, data cards, pencils, etc.) are provided free of charge, and cleanups can be scheduled at your convenience. Individuals can also volunteer at a scheduled cleanup. To organize or join a cleanup, check out the COASTSWEEP website or email coastsweep@mass.gov. COASTSWEEP 2023 sponsors are EEA, CZM, Ocean Conservancy, the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), and Tronex, a personal protective equipment company that provided gloves for the cleanups. 
 
The Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management (CZM) is the lead policy and planning agency on coastal and ocean issues within the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs. Through planning, technical and grant assistance, and public information programs, CZM seeks to balance the impacts of human activity with the protection of coastal and marine resources. The agency’s work includes helping coastal communities address the challenges of storms, sea level rise, and other effects of climate change; working with state, regional, and federal partners to balance current and new uses of ocean waters while protecting ocean habitats and promoting sustainable economic development; and partnering with communities and other organizations to protect and restore coastal water quality and habitats. 
 
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Governor Healey Signs Executive Order to Improve Language Access Across State Government Order highlights Healey-Driscoll Administration's dedication to providing more equitable, inclusive access to government services

BOSTON – Today, Governor Maura T. Healey, joined by members of the Latino Advisory Council, signed Executive Order #615 to increase language access across state government.

 

The Executive Order aims to make the delivery of services and resources more accessible and equitable for residents with limited English proficiency by requiring executive department agencies to develop Language Access Plans. Governor Healey also issued a proclamation declaring Hispanic Heritage Month in Massachusetts from September 15th to October 15th. 
 
“Everyone in Massachusetts, regardless of what language they speak, deserves equitable access to government services and resources, but we recognize that language often poses a major barrier,” said Governor Healey. “This Executive Order will help break down language barriers and bridge gaps by instructing state agencies to conduct a thorough assessment of their language access capabilities and develop a plan for improvement. We’re proud to take this important step toward making state government more accessible and equitable during Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month alongside members of the Governor’s Latino Advisory Council.” 
 
“One in four Massachusetts residents speak a language other than English – which underscores why this Executive Order is so critical,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “It is essential that we are setting people up for success by ensuring that they are able to read and engage with information provided by their state government. This Executive Order will help us work to ensure that all residents have the chance to get their questions answered and interact with their government in a way they understand. I am excited to see the implementation of strong language access plans across our state agencies and all the benefits this will bring to our state.” 
 
The Executive Order directs executive department agencies to identify a Language Access Coordinator and develop a Language Access Plan. These plans should include assessments of the agency’s services for residents with limited English proficiency, the languages spoken by the people they serve, their current policies and practices regarding translations, and the capacity of their staff to deliver services in other languages other than English. The plans will also include specific actions and policy changes to reduce language access barriers.  
 

_Fall River and Somerset Routine Inspection Work on the Braga Bridge Lane closures 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., September 18 - September 21

FALL RIVER/SOMERSET - The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is announcing crews will be conducting routine bridge inspection on the Braga Bridge carrying I-195 over the Taunton River in Fall River and Somerset.

 

Work is scheduled to occur daily, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., beginning on Monday, September 18, and continuing Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, concluding Thursday afternoon, September 21.


Single right and left lane closures in both the eastbound and westbound directions of I-195 will be required to perform the work.


The schedule for this work is weather dependent and is subject to change without notice.

Statement on NFL Field Surfaces

Moving all stadium fields to high quality natural grass surfaces is the easiest decision the NFL can make. 
The players overwhelmingly prefer it and the data is clear that grass is simply safer than artificial turf. 
Its is an issue that has been the near the top of the players' list during my team visits and one I have raised with the NFL. 

While we know there is an investment in making this change, there is a bigger cost to everyone in our business if we keep losing our best players to unnecessary injuries. 

It makes no sense that stadiums can flip over to superior grass surfaces when the World Cup comes, or soccer clubs come to visit for exhibition games in the summer, but inferior artificial surfaces are acceptable for our own players. 

This is worth the investment and it simply needs to change now. 

Red Sox to collect funds for Maui wildfires relief efforts September 8-14 Collections at all Fenway Park Gates Through 2nd Inning During Baltimore Orioles and New York Yankees Series

BOSTON, MA – The Red Sox will collect donations at all Fenway Park gates beginning Friday, September 8 through Thursday, September 14 to aid Maui relief efforts on the island, where wildfires have caused widespread destruction, displacing families, destroying homes, and impacting the environment. Funds raised will support evolving needs, including shelter, food, financial assistance, and other services as identified by local organizations on site providing aid.

 

All donations collected by the Red Sox during the Red Sox-Orioles and Red Sox-Yankees series will be donated directly to the Maui Strong Fund of the Hawaii Community Foundation, and the Shane Victorino Foundation.

 

Fans can also make donations to the Red Sox Foundation online by visiting redsoxfoundation.org/relief. Donations will be collected on game days from the time gates open through the 2nd inning.

Eagles Patriots Final Injury Reports for 8 September 2023 Friday

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2023

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (0-0)
OUT
CB Jack Jones - Hamstring (DNP)

DOUBTFUL
No Players Listed.

QUESTIONABLE
QB Matt Corral - Not Injury Related (DNP)
OL Mike Onwenu - Ankle (LP)
RB Rhamondre Stevenson - Illness (DNP)
WR DeVante Parker - Knee (LP)
G Cole Strange - Knee (LP)

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES (0-0)
OUT
No Players Listed.


DOUBTFUL
No Players Listed.

QUESTIONABLE
No Players Listed.

Somerset Police Investigating Double Fatal Crash

SOMERSET — Chief Todd Costa reports that the Somerset Police Department is investigating a double fatal crash that occurred early this morning.

 

At 1:14 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 9, Somerset Police received a report of a vehicle that had struck a phone pole at the MA Rte. 103 rotary. 

 

Upon arrival, officers located a motorcycle and a vehicle with two victims lying in the roadway. The male victim, who is believed to be the operator of the motorcycle, was pronounced dead on-scene. The female victim, who is believed to be a passenger on the motorcycle, was transported by Somerset EMS to a local hospital where she was later pronounced dead. 

 

The identities of the deceased are being withheld at this time, pending positive identification and notification of next of kin. 

 

The driver of the vehicle was transported by Somerset EMS to a nearby hospital out of an abundance of caution. 

 

The preliminary investigation by the Somerset Police Department suggests the motorcycle entered the rotary in the wrong direction, colliding with the vehicle. 

 

The investigation into the crash remains active and on-going. Somerset Police are investigating with the assistance of the Massachusetts State Police Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Section (CARS) Unit and Detectives assigned to the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office.

 

Sentencing of Convicted Dartmouth Domestic Terrorist

A 52-year-old Dartmouth man was sentenced to state prison yesterday after being convicted by a jury of his peers of assaulting and terrorizing his neighbors for a period of about 18 months in 2020 and 2021, Bristol County District Attorney Thomas M. Quinn III announced.

 

Frederick Preece was convicted after a six-day jury trial in Fall River Superior Court on indictments charging him with two counts of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and five counts of Criminal Harassment.

 

The defendant, who is already serving a three to three-and-a-half year prison sentence after being convicted last June of violently assaulting his elderly father in May of 2021, was sentenced yesterday by Judge Thomas Perrino to serve an additional three-and-a-half to four years in state prison.  Upon his eventual release, he will also be placed on supervised probation for another three years.

 

In the current case, the defendant was accused of threatening at least eight of his neighbors with death and attempting to run elderly neighbors off the road with his motor vehicle.  The defendant began his reign of terror in June of 2020 when he returned to live at his parents’ Barney’s Joy Road home.  In addition to the death threats, the defendant instilled fear in his neighbors by also telling them he had previously killed a man, could accurately shoot a small object from 1,600 yards away, was going to bring a “real monster” who had a number of confirmed kills to the laneway, was installing listening devices at their homes and was employing mercenaries to keep his neighbors off the road he falsely asserted was part of his parents’ property.  At one point, he placed a large utility pole in front of one of the victims’ homes and installed a guard shack at the end of the lane.

 

At another point, the defendant, while armed with a chainsaw, entered onto a neighbor’s property while the neighbor was hosting a party and began shouting at the party guests.  On another occasions, he approached a female neighbor who was sitting alone on her porch and threatened to kill her dog.

 

In January of 2021, the defendant began following his neighbors in various motor vehicles. They found him to be ever present. When they walked their dogs, he would appear and follow them. When they would leave their homes, the defendant would be there watching and waiting to force an encounter with them. At the end of January of 2021, the defendant saw another female neighbor walking her puppy on Barney’s Joy Road. The defendant proceeded to follow closely behind her while she was on foot and he in his car. The defendant ultimately opened his window and began screaming at her that he would kill her dog. 

 

In February of 2021, the defendant expanded his scope of intimidating conduct to additional neighbors, those living next door to his parents on Jordan Road. The defendant was seen by one the victims on various dates and times in the month of February, ranging from the early morning hours to late at night, standing near the end of her driveway. Sometimes he would stand and stare up at her home making her feel watched, other times the defendant would scream various obscenities at her while pacing back and forth in front of the front yard. 

 

On April 8, 2021, a male neighbor had another altercation with the defendant when the victim tried to take his motorcycle out onto Barney’s Joy Road. On that date the defendant again, ever present, was driving up and down the laneway. The defendant ultimately parked and waited for the victim to pull out of his driveway for more than 5 minutes. When the victim finally did pull out onto the lane the defendant drove a BMW SUV down the laneway at the victim at a high rate of speed, slammed on his brakes and stopped within inches of the victim’s motorcycle. The defendant then began screaming at him again. 

 

Also in April, the defendant was seen attempting to block access to the laneway by putting up chains attached to old concrete pillars and dragging them across the road.

 

Then on or about April 10 2021, a 72-year-old man  was walking down Jordan Road between 8:00 and 9:00 A.M. when he saw the defendant driving a silver BMW SUV driving toward him. When the elderly victim first saw the defendant, he was traveling toward Barney’s Joy Road at a normal pace, around 30 miles per hour. As the defendant got closer to the victim the engine began to race, the vehicle sped up, and the defendant drove the vehicle abruptly toward the victim, forcing him to jump out of the road to avoid being hit. The defendant’s vehicle then moved back to the appropriate position in the road and drove off. 

 

Then on April 24, 2021, the same elderly victim had an almost identical interaction with the defendant. While the victim was taking a walk, the defendant’s car began accelerating to an estimated 60 MPH and drove abruptly at the victim, causing him to jump off of the shoulder of the road again. On that date the defendant stopped the car, turned around and drove back to the victim. The defendant then exited the vehicle and began yelling in his face.

 

Numerous other similar incidents of criminal harassment occurred during the harrowing 18-month period.

The case was successfully prosecuted by First Assistant District Attorney Patrick Bomberg and Assistant District Attorney Charlie Schofield.

“I would like to thank the jury for carefully reviewing the evidence and holding the defendant accountable for terrorizing and repeatedly harassing his neighbors, who were just trying to live their lives.  The defendant engaged in extremely disturbing and menacing behavior for no rational reason,” District Attorney Quinn said.  “This conduct, along with his previous conviction for assaulting his father, clearly demonstrates he is a danger to the community and a menace to his neighbors.  I am pleased the defendant will be off the street for up to seven and a half years, and that the victims can move forward to resume their lives in a normal way.”

Sagamore Bridge inspection and maintenance work September 13:

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New England District contractors will conduct inspection and maintenance work on one side of the Sagamore Bridge on Wednesday, September 13 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

As a result, the travel lanes heading onto Cape Cod will be restricted to a single lane during the scheduled work hours. 

Both travel lanes heading off Cape Cod will remain open for travel. 

No wide loads will be permitted to cross the bridge while lane restrictions are in place
 

Governor Healey Requests Changes to Work Authorization Process for Migrants

BOSTON – Governor Maura T. Healey sent a letter to U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas outlining her administration’s specific requests for changes to the work authorization process to allow migrants to secure work faster and relieve pressure on the emergency shelter system in Massachusetts.  


“Massachusetts has stepped up to address what has been a federal crisis of inaction many years in the making. Communities, service providers, and our National Guard are going above and beyond to ensure that families arriving in Massachusetts have a safe place to sleep and their basic needs met,” said Governor Healey. “We are grateful to Secretary Mayorkas and his team for meeting with us to hear about the emergency we are facing and the help we need from our federal government. This letter memorializes our requests for additional federal funding and changes to the work authorization process that would support families, reduce the burden on our shelter system, and help us address our state’s workforce needs.” 


“Massachusetts is facing twin crises that aren’t unique to our state – we have rapidly rising numbers of migrant families arriving here who want to work but can’t get their work authorizations, and we are facing severe workforce shortages in all industries,” said Lieutenant Governor Driscoll. “We have the opportunity to not only address both of these issues, but also to grow our economy and strengthen our communities in the long run. We are hopeful that the federal government will take these requests into serious consideration.” 


Last month, Governor Healey declared a state of emergency in Massachusetts due to rapidly rising numbers of migrant families arriving in Massachusetts, requiring the state’s shelter system to expand in an unsustainable manner. There are currently more than 6,200 families with children and pregnant women in emergency shelter, many of whom are migrants. Governor Healey also recently activated up to 250 members of the National Guard to provide services at emergency shelter hotels. 


In declaring the emergency, Governor Healey appealed directly to the federal government to streamline the work authorization process to help many of these migrants obtain work that will help them support their families and eventually move out of emergency shelter. Two weeks ago, Governor Healey met with Secretary Mayorkas and his team at the Massachusetts State House to discuss these goals. This letter memorializes the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s specific requests for the federal government to address this emergency, which include regulatory and guidance changes, as well as logistical and technological improvements. The letter also reiterates the administration’s request for additional federal funding to support shelter and human services, and the need for that funding to be distributed equitably among states based on the pressure facing their systems and finances. 


The requested regulatory changes include an immediate shift in how DHS interprets the statutory rules for authorizing migrants to work, allowing them to quickly and immediately apply for work authorization when the law allows it, rather than forcing them to wait for long and bureaucratic processing procedures that could take months. In addition, the letter urges DHS to dramatically accelerate its digitization of the immigration process and to build better connectivity between the information collected by U.S. Customs and Border Protection and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. This includes improved access to online forms with direct language translations and user-friendly guides, more efficient creation of work authorization cards, and more streamlined application procedures to help speed up the process.  
 

Two Murder Arraignments

Two recently indicted murder defendants for separate homicides which occurred this May in Mansfield and Fall River were both arraigned this week in Fall River Superior Court and ordered held without bail, Bristol County District Attorney Thomas M. Quinn III announced.

 

William O’Brien, 22, formerly of Manchester-By-The-Sea, was indicted by a Bristol County Grand Jury on August 17th on charges of Murder, Possession of a Large Capacity Firearm and Unlawful Possession of Ammunition.

 

On May 20, 2023, the Southeastern Massachusetts Regional Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call Saturday at 11:11 am reporting a shooting at 42 West Church Street.  When first responders arrived on scene, they located Samuel P. Waters, 23, of Mansfield, who was already deceased. 

 

The defendant was arrested shortly after police arrived on scene.  On Tuesday of this week, he was formally arraigned on the new indictments in Fall River Superior Court.  He is due back in court for a pretrial hearing on November 1.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Patrick Driscoll.

 

Separately, Angelo Leo, 33, of Fall River, was indicted by a Bristol County Grand Jury on August 31 on charges of Murder, Carrying an Illegal Firearm, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, Malicious Damage to a Motor Vehicle and two counts of Violating an Abuse Prevention Order.

 

On May 29, 2023 Fall River Police responded to the Globe Car Wash on Broadway after receiving a 911 call at 12:36 pm regarding a potential shooting. 


When first responders arrived on scene, they found the victim, Jessenia Simmons, 45, of New Bedford, already deceased in one of the car wash bays.

 

The defendant initially fled from the scene of the shooting in a vehicle but turned himself in to police in Tiverton, RI about a half-hour later.

 

He was arraigned on the new indictments this morning in Fall River Superior Court and is due back in court for a pretrial hearing on October 24.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Gilian Kirsch and Kaitlyn O’Leary.

Sen. Raptakis to resubmit bill to commemorate Sept. 11 with moment of silence in schools

STATE HOUSE – Sen. Lou Raptakis (D-Dist. 33, Coventry, East Greenwich, West Greenwich) plans to reintroduce legislation to allow teachers in public schools to hold a brief moment of silence to recognize the anniversary of the tragic attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.


The proposal, which he last introduced in 2022 (2022-S 2171), is modeled on a measure enacted in the New York state to commemorate the attacks on the World Trade Center towers and the Pentagon. 


“It’s important to recognize this terrible moment in our history and to memorialize those who lost their lives or loved ones on that day,” said Senator Raptakis. “I hope that the legislature will take action on this legislation to allow Rhode Island educators to join with their colleagues in New York in having the chance to honor future anniversaries.”


“This is a reminder that after more than 20 years, terrorism will not go away.  This bill will commemorate the tragic losses of the past while signaling that we must remain vigilant for the future,” concluded Senator Raptakis.


Senator Raptakis will be among those attending the 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony at the State House Monday on the 22nd anniversary of the tragedy. The event, hosted by Gov. Daniel McKee, will be held Monday at 8:30 a.m. in the State House rotunda.
 

Natural Gas Work in Fall River This Week

Ferreira Corporation is working at the following locations this week.

#    Location    Start    End
1    Baldwin St.    N. Main St.    End
2    Bedford St.    Rock St.    N. Main St.
3    Birch St.    Bay St.    King St.
4    Bullock St.    Ratcliffe St.    Eastern Ave.
5    Canal St.    Columbia St.    Spring St.
6    Columbia St.    Canal St.    Eagle St.
7    Globe St.    Bay St.    Chace St.
8    Harvard St.    Highland Ave.    Crescent St.
9    Hill St.    Bullock St.    Locust St.
10    Holland St.    N. Main St.    End
11    King St.    Globe St.    Chace St.
12    N. Main St.    Herman St.    Wilson Rd.
13    Seabury St.    Bedford St.    Pine St.
14    Sherman St.    Bullock St.    Locust St.
15    Stowe St.    Harvard St.    End
 

State Health Officials Announce Third Human Case of West Nile virus in Massachusetts Residents should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites

BOSTON (September 8, 2023) – The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today announced the third human case of West Nile virus (WNV) in a Massachusetts resident this year. The individual is a male in his 50s who was exposed in Hampden County. 

 

The risk of human infection with WNV is moderate in the Greater Boston area (Middlesex, Norfolk, and Suffolk counties), and in parts of Berkshire, Bristol, Hampden, Hampshire, Plymouth, and Worcester counties. There are no additional risk level changes indicated at this time.

 

“This is the third person with West Nile virus infection identified in Massachusetts this year,” said Public Health Commissioner Robert Goldstein, MD, PhD. “It continues to be important for people to take steps to prevent mosquito bites, including by using a mosquito repellent with an EPA-registered active ingredient, draining standing water around their homes, and repairing window screens. Risk from mosquito-borne disease will continue until the first hard frost.”

 

In 2022, there were eight human cases of WNV infection identified in Massachusetts. WNV is usually transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. While WNV can infect people of all ages, people over the age of 50 are at higher risk for severe disease. Most people infected with WNV will have no symptoms. When present, WNV symptoms tend to include fever and flu-like illness. In rare cases, more severe illness can occur.

 

People have an important role to play in protecting themselves and their loved ones from illnesses caused by mosquitoes.

 

Avoid Mosquito Bites
Apply Insect Repellent when Outdoors. Use a repellent with an EPA-registered ingredient (DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide), permethrin, picaridin (KBR 3023), oil of lemon eucalyptus [p-Menthane-3,8-diol (PMD)] or IR3535) according to the instructions on the product label. DEET products should not be used on infants under two months of age and should be used in concentrations of 30 percent or less on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under three years of age.

 

Be Aware of Peak Mosquito Hours. The hours from dusk to dawn are peak biting times for many mosquitoes. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities that occur during evening or early morning in areas of high risk.

 

Clothing Can Help Reduce Mosquito Bites. Wearing long-sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.

 

Mosquito-Proof Your Home


Drain Standing Water. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Limit the number of places around your home for mosquitoes to breed by draining or discarding items that hold water. Check rain gutters and drains. Empty unused flowerpots and wading pools and change the water in birdbaths frequently.

Install or Repair Screens. Keep mosquitoes outside by having tightly fitting screens on all windows and doors.

 

Protect Your Animals
Animal owners should reduce potential mosquito breeding sites on their property by eliminating standing water from containers such as buckets, tires, and wading pools – especially after heavy rains. Water troughs provide excellent mosquito breeding habitats and should be flushed out at least once a week during the summer months to reduce mosquitoes near paddock areas. Horse owners should keep horses in indoor stalls at night to reduce their risk of exposure to mosquitoes. Owners should also speak with their veterinarian about mosquito repellents approved for use in animals and vaccinations to prevent WNV and EEE. If an animal is suspected of having WNV or EEE, owners are required to report to the Department of Agricultural Resources, Division of Animal Health by calling 617-626-1795, and to the Department of Public Health by calling 617-983-6800.

 

More information, including all WNV and EEE positive results, can be found on the Arbovirus Surveillance Information web page at Mosquito-borne Diseases | Mass.gov, which is updated daily, or by calling the DPH Division of Epidemiology at 617-983-6800. 

_ Fall River Inspection of I-195 Tunnel BeneathFall River City Hall and Adjacent Bridges

Work will occur in overnight hours starting on Monday night, August 7, through Friday morning, August 11th


FALL RIVER- The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is announcing inspection of the tunnel on I-195 beneath Fall River City Hall and adjacent bridges on South Main Street, Third Street, and Fourth Street. The work will be conducted on Monday, August 7 beginning at 9 p.m., and will continue nightly on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday nights between the hours of 9 p.m. and 5 a.m.  All inspection work is expected to be completed by 5 a.m. on Friday, August 11. 

 

The inspection work will require various lane and shoulder closures on I-195 to provide access to the structures.  At all times, a minimum of one travel lane will be maintained on I-195.

Bridge Joint Replacement on Rockdale Ave over Route 140

Work will begin on Sunday, August 6, and occur weekly, Sunday through Thursday, for two weeks between the hours of 8:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. 
 
Temporary lane and shoulder closures will be in place 
 
 
New Bedford - The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is announcing crews will be performing joint replacement work on the bridge carrying Rockdale Avenue over Route 140 beginning Sunday, August 6, at 8:00 p.m.  Work will be performed Sunday through Thursday nights between the hours of 8:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m., and work is expected to conclude on Friday, August 18, at 5:00 a.m.  
 

GALVIN OPENS INQUIRY INTO USE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN SECURITIES INDUSTRY

    Concerned about the growing and potentially unchecked use of artificial intelligence in the securities industry, Secretary of the Commonwealth William F. Galvin has directed his Securities Division to investigate the ways in which firms may be using the technology in their interactions with Massachusetts investors.


            Yesterday, Galvin’s Securities Division sent letters of inquiry to a number of registered and unregistered firms known to be using or developing the use of AI for business purposes in the securities industry. The letters seek information on the manner in which the entities may be using artificial intelligence in their business and activities.


            Of particular interest to Galvin are the supervisory procedures that firms have in place regarding artificial intelligence, and whether those systems ensure that the AI will not put the interests of the firm ahead of the interests of their clients. For those firms that have already deployed AI, the Division will also be evaluating the disclosure processes in place.


            “State securities regulators have an important role to play when it comes to AI and its impact on main street investors,” Galvin said today. “If deployed without the guardrails necessary to ensure proper disclosure and consideration of conflicts, I am concerned that this technology could result in harm to investors.” 


In addition to making inquiries relating to disclosure and supervisory procedures, the Securities Division is questioning select firms about any marketing materials provided to investors that may have been created using AI.


Firms included in the investigatory sweep have been given until August 16, 2023 to respond to the Division’s inquiries.

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CONTEST RULES

WSAR-AM BIRTHDAY GIFT GIVAWAY RULES: CONTEST STARTS SEPTEMBER 28,2023 ENDS OCTOBER 20,2023. ONE GRAND PRIZE WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED ON THE WSAR BREAKFAST CLUB, FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27,2023 AT ABOUT 8:45AM.  TO PARTICIPATE, CONTESTANTS MUST SEND TO WSAR-AM A BIRTHDAY CARD OR FACSIMILE OR EMAIL TO WSAR BIRTHDAY CONTEST, 1 HOME STREET, SOMERSET, MA 02725. SEND EMAILS TO MARY@WSAR.COM. STARTING SEPTEMBER 28,2023 THROUGH OCTOBER 20, 2023 WSAR WILL ANNOUNCE A CONTESTANT’S NAME AT APPROXIMATELY 7:15. 8:15, 10:15AM AND 4:15PM MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY.  WHEN A CONTESTANT HEARS THEIR NAME AND LOCATION THE CONTESTANT MUST CALL 508-678-9727 WITHIN 15 MINUTES TO QUALIFY FOR THE GRAND PRIZE DRAWING.  CONTEST IS OPEN TO ANY/ALL WSAR LISTENERS.  CONTESTANTS MUST BE 21 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER.  ONE ENTRY PER HOUSEHOLD.  CONTEST IS OPEN TO U.S. RESIDENTS ONLY. THE WINNER WILL BE NOTIFIED BY PHONE OR MAIL.  ODDS OF WINNING WILL DEPEND ON THE NUMBER OF QUALIFIED ENTREES. WSAR MAY SUBSTITUTE ANOTHER PRIZE OF EQUAL VALUE. PRIZE PACKAGE IS PRIMARILY MADE UP OF GIFT CERTIFICATES AND OTHER PRIZES.  EMPLOYEES OF WSAR-AM, FIRST BRISTOL, ITS ADVERTISING AGENCIES, THEIR AFFILIATES, REPRESENTATIVES AND THEIR FAMILIES OR HOUSEHOLD OR THEIR EMPLOYEES ARE INELIGIBLE TO ENTER/WIN. WSAR-AM RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CANCEL OR DELAY THE CONTEST DUE TO CIRCUMSTANCES BEYOND ITS CONTROL.  ALL CONTEST ENTRIES BECOME THE PROPERTY OF WSAR-AM. WSAR-AM MAY WITHHOLD ANY CONTEST MATERIALS CRUCIAL TO THE COMPLETION OF THE CONTEST. ALL CONTESTANTS ACKNOWLEDGE, AS A CONDITION OF ENTRY, THAT WSAR-AM HAS THE RIGHT TO PUBLICIZE, OR BROADCAST THE WINNER’S NAME, CHARACTER, LIKENESS, VOICE OR ALL MATERIALS INCIDENTAL HEREIN. PRIZES ARE NON-TRANSFERABLE AND VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.  NO CASH SUBSTITUTION OF PRIZES ALLOWED.  CONTESTANTS AGREE TO COMPLY BY ALL RULES OF THE BIRTHDAY GIFT GIVEAWAY, GRAND PRIZE WINNER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL TAXES.  GRAND PRIZE WINNER WILL BE ISSUED AN IRS FORM 1099 TO REPORT THEIR WINNINGS. GRAND PRIZE VALUE IS $1480.00. WINNER UNDERSTANDS AND AGREES THAT HE OR SHE IS RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY AND ALL TAXES INCURRED ON PRIZES RECEIVED. IN THE EVENT THAT THE WINNER CHOOSES NOT TO ACCEPT THE GRAND PRIZE, WSAR-AM HAS THE RIGHT, AT ITS DISCRETION, TO AWARD THE GRAND PRIZE  TO ANOTHER CONTESTANT (DRAWN FROM CONTEST ENTRIES). RESULTS OF THE DRAWING SHALL BE FINAL. CONTEST RULES ARE AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW DURING REGULAR BUSINESS HOURS AT THE WSAR-AM OFFICES. WSAR-AM, ITS AGENCIES, AFFILIATES,SPONSORS, OR REPRESENTATIVES ABSOLVE THEMSELVES OF ANY LIABILITY, FINANCIAL OR OTHERWISE FROM ANY ON OR OFF CONTEST STAGED BY WSAR-AM. NO PURCHASE TO ENTER THE CONTEST.  ALL REGULATIONS ( FEDERAL, STATE OR LOCAL ) APPLY.      

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