An extensive investigation into the previously unsolved July 6, 2021 homicide of 66-year-old Joseph Housley in Seekonk has resulted in the indictment of the victim’s son and another man for murder, Bristol County District Attorney Thomas M. Quinn III announced.

A Bristol County Grand Jury on Thursday handed down indictments charging Joseph “JD” Housley II and Christopher Heron with Murder and Carrying an Illegal Firearm. Both 21-year-old defendants are from Rehoboth and are currently in custody.

The 15-month long investigation was coordinated and presented to the grand jury by Assistant District Attorney Shawn Guilderson, and was conducted with the assistance of Massachusetts State Police detectives assigned to DA Quinn’s office, Seekonk Police and Rehoboth Police. 

“I want to commend the investigators from my office, Seekonk Police, Rehoboth Police and State Police for their combined efforts in investigating this complex case,” District Attorney Quin said.  “Their tireless work for the past 15 months led to this indictment. We now look forward to prosecuting this case in court.”

Both defendants have been in custody since last fall and both are due in Fall River Superior Court for pretrial hearings on their respective cases on October 18th.  It is likely both defendants will be arraigned on the new indictments on that date, but we are awaiting final confirmation from the clerk’s office.

At approximately 9:53 pm on July 6, 2021, Seekonk Police responded to 911 calls regarding possible gun shots  in the area of 101 Forsyth Circle.  When first responders arrived on scene, they located 66-year-old Joseph Housley suffering from an apparent gunshot wound in an apartment at 101 Forsyth Circle.  He was later pronounced deceased.

No further information regarding the facts of the murder case can be released until both defendants are arraigned in open court
 

The New England Patriots (1-2) and the Green Bay Packers (2-1) announce the following player injuries and practice participation.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2022

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (1-2)

OUT
OL Yodny Cajuste - Thumb (DNP)
QB Mac Jones - Ankle (DNP)
DL Lawrence Guy - Shoulder (DNP)

DOUBTFUL
No Players Listed.

QUESTIONABLE
S Joshuah Bledsoe - Groin (LP)
S Kyle Dugger - Knee (LP)
DL Davon Godchaux - Back (LP)
LB Raekwon McMillan - Thumb (LP)
WR Jakobi Meyers, Knee (LP)
CB Jalen Mills, Hamstring (LP)
S Adrian Phillips - Ribs (LP)

The Bristol County Sheriff's office welcomed two new members to the force on Thursday. According to NBC 10 in Providence, Jack and Hero will serve as the team's newest comfort dogs as part of the Office's new Bristol County Comfort Dog Coalition. Officials say the dogs' job will be to comfort individuals in need after stressful and traumatic situations. Jack and Hero are still in training but once completed, they will be taken to local schools, hospitals, summer camps and more. Officials said the two will also be on scene to provide comfort at fires and other incidents.

This weekend, a new parish will be born in the Fall River diocese featuring the same places, familiar faces, and a new name. According to the digital edition of the Fall River Herald News, on October 1, three churches of St. Thomas More and St. Patrick's in Somerset, and St. Louis de France in Swansea will form a new parish community. They will officially merge into Our Lady of Peace, with three separate worship sites. In June, the Reverend David A. Costa, pastor of Our Lady of Peace, laid out his plan to merge the churches, which was approved by Fall River Diocese Bishop Edgar Da Cunha this week. Costa, who oversees all three churches, said the bishop's decree just makes formal what they've been doing for the past three years, which was working together.

The New England Patriots (1-2) and the Green Bay Packers (2-1) announce the following player injuries and practice participation.

The New England Patriots (1-2) and the Green Bay Packers (2-1) announce the following player injuries and practice participation.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2022

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (1-2)

DID NOT PARTICIPATE

QB Mac Jones - Ankle
DL Lawrence Guy - Shoulder

LIMITED PARTICIPATION

S Joshuah Bledsoe - Groin
OL Yodny Cajuste - Thumb
S Kyle Dugger - Knee
DL Davon Godchaux - Back
LB Raekwon McMillan - Thumb
WR Jakobi Meyers, Knee
CB Jalen Mills, Hamstring
S Adrian Phillips - Ribs

FULL PARTICIPATION
No Players Listed.

GREEN BAY PACKERS (2-1)

DID NOT PARTICIPATE
G/T Elgton Jenkins - Knee
T Caleb Jones - Illness

LIMITED PARTICIPATION
CB Jaire Alexander - Groin
T David Bakhtiari - Knee
RB AJ Dillon - Knee
LB Jonathan Garvin - Hip
WR Allen Lazard - Ankle
TE Marcedes Lewis - Groin
WR Christian Watson - Hamstring

FULL PARTICIPATION
No Players Listed.

BOSTON, MA – The Red Sox will collect donations and supplies at all Fenway Park gates beginning today through the final game of the regular season on October 5 to aid Hurricane Fiona relief efforts in Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic where local communities continue to be without power or running water in the aftermath of the category 4 hurricane.

Fans not attending the final five games of the regular season can make donations to the Red Sox Foundation online by visiting redsoxfoundation.org/relief. Donated items will be collected on game days from the time gates open through the 2nd inning. Supplies will also be accepted during non-game hours at Gate D, located on Jersey Street.

Supplies most needed include the following:

Battery Powered Fans
First Aid Kits
Diapers
Hygiene products (e.g. soap, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner)
Lanterns (solar powered preferred)
Over-the-counter medications
Personal Portable Water Filters

In 2018, the Red Sox delivered nearly 10 tons of supplies to aid Hurricane Maria recovery efforts in Puerto Rico. The club also helped fund the supply of generators which have proved essential in the recent aftermath of Hurricane Fiona.

AAA research reveals AEB is better at spotting stationary vehicles, but speed poses challenges
As of September 1, 2022, Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) is standard equipment in most new cars sold in the United States.

Over the years, AEB has successfully stemmed rear-end crashes, which often result in injuries, property damage, and even fatalities. But AAA wanted to know if the latest generation of AEB can handle higher speeds and detect moving vehicles in its path at intersections. It struggled with the former and failed with the latter.

“Automatic Emergency Braking does well at tackling the limited task it was designed to do. Unfortunately, regulator’s slow-speed crash standards don’t reflect the speed on the roads where most injuries occur,” said John Paul, AAA Northeast Car Doctor. “Testing requirements for this technology should be updated to handle faster, more realistic speeds and scenarios with the greatest safety benefit for drivers, and consumers must know that these systems are very useful but not infallible.”

The Issue
AEB uses forward-facing cameras and other sensors to automatically tell the car to apply the brakes when a crash is imminent. It has reduced rear-end crashes at slower speeds, and the technology has been refined over the years with upgraded hardware and software. But two of the most common deadly crashes at intersections are T-bones and left turns in front of oncoming vehicles. From 2016 to 2020, these two types accounted for 39.2% of total fatalities in crashes involving two passenger vehicles. during which the striking vehicle did not lose traction or leave the roadway before the collision.

The Results

           At 30 mph, AEB prevented a rear-end collision in 17 of 20 test runs, or 85 percent. In the test runs that resulted in a crash, the impact speed was reduced by 86 percent. But, at 40 mph, AEB prevented crashes in only 6 of 20 test runs, or 30 percent. For test runs that resulted in a crash, impact speed was reduced by 62 percent. In both the T-bone and left turn in front of an oncoming vehicle

tests, crashes occurred 100 percent of the time as AEB failed to slow the vehicle and avoid the crash.
            Beginning September this year, 20 automakers representing nearly the entire U.S. market pledged to make AEB standard equipment on all their new vehicles. AAA strongly urges automakers and regulators to improve system design and test procedures so AEB can more effectively handle the types of crashes that result in injuries and fatalities. Drivers must recognize the limitations of AEB and remain engaged when behind the wheel.

            AAA tested four vehicles, all 2022 models: the Chevrolet Equinox LT with “Chevy Safety Assist,” the Ford Explorer XLT with “Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking,” the Honda CR-V Touring with “Honda Sensing,” and the Toyota RAV4 LE with “Toyota Sensing.”
 

“Our response to Russian aggression in Ukraine sets the example for all authoritarian countries considering unprovoked violence against another sovereign state”
 
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Congressman Jake Auchincloss (D, MA-04) is leading a bipartisan letter  with Congressman Anthony Gonzalez (R, OH-16) to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen calling for a cap on Russian Oil Prices. In the letter the members stated, “A well-designed, comprehensive price cap will help the democratic world stand with Ukraine and protect economies threatened by Putin’s weaponization of energy…We agree that the G-7 proposed price cap, which would allow for insurance of Russian oil shipments if oil is purchased at a predetermined discounted price, would strengthen existing sanctions and further damage Russia’s economy.”
 
A full copy of the letter can be found attached and below. 
 
Dear Secretary Yellen,  

We are writing to voice our support for the G-7 endorsed plan to implement a price cap on Russian oil purchases. We also support coordinated sanctions that prohibit insurance and reinsurance for tankers that transport Russian crude oil and petroleum products. For these agreements to be duly enacted, however, there must be anti-corruption and anti-evasion protocols in place to prevent Russia from circumventing a price cap or using foreign shipping fleets. We urge you to implement strong, centrally administered oversight to prevent corruption and ensure effective implementation of the price cap. Further, we urge the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) to actively collaborate with European Union (EU) counterparts to establish a centralized enforcement mechanism for insurance sanctions. 
 
Russia has gained short-term leverage to fund its illegal, unprovoked war in Ukraine because of delayed oil import bans. In the interim, the Kremlin enriched its war chest with a profit of 93 billion euros during the first 100 days of the conflict from exports of oil, gas, and coal. There is no indication Russia will be slowing production any time soon, with media reporting in July that the country was averaging production of almost 10.8 million barrels per day and exportation of  7.5 million barrels per day of crude and petroleum products. In fact, reports indicate that the large discount at which Russia was forced to sell its crude soon after the invasion, due to buyers’ aversion, has recently declined.  
 
To limit Russia’s ability to fund its war through oil profits, Secretary of State Anthony Blinken announced in April that “we’re looking to allies and partners not to increase their purchases of Russian oil.” To fulfill these goals, the EU will prohibit seaborne crude oil imports starting in December and seaborne petroleum products in February 2023. Further, in May, the EU and United Kingdom announced they would ban all insurance on tankers that carry Russian oil around the world. This is significant, as EU and United Kingdom entities play a central role in providing insurance and reinsurance for 95 percent of the world’s oil tanker fleet. In conjunction with widespread economic sanctions, the oil and insurance sanctions will make it harder for Russia to fund its brutal war. Still, many countries are purchasing Russian oil. China is a notable importer, and India has drastically increased its Russian purchases, buying nearly one million barrels a day.  
 
By exploiting weaknesses in Russia’s oil export process, the U.S. and its allies can better constrain the Kremlin’s cash flow. For example, there is no pipeline from Russian oil fields to India, which means that Russia must deliver oil to India by sea. Because of the large volume of its seaborne exports and its limited domestic fleet, Russia relies heavily on foreign-owned oil tankers for its exports, including vessels owned by EU entities. As the insurance bans come fully into force, it is expected that Russia will lose access to many of the foreign tankers currently shipping its oil, which will make it much more challenging for Russia to maintain its current levels of oil exports, especially to more distant markets such as India.  
 
While G-7 countries have agreed to implement this price cap, India, China, and Turkey have not determined if they will implement the price cap or strike their own deal with Russia. The alliance of agreeing countries should have the broadest possible purchasing power for the cap to have maximum impact. In the coming months, we encourage the Administration to engage in diplomatic discussions with these countries to participate in the price cap. A well-designed, comprehensive price cap will help the democratic world stand with Ukraine and protect economies threatened by Putin’s weaponization of energy. 
 
We agree that the G-7 proposed price cap, which would allow for insurance of Russian oil shipments if oil is purchased at a predetermined discounted price, would strengthen existing sanctions and further damage Russia’s economy. A price cap can create a mutually beneficial strategy that allows more affordable oil to flow through global markets without sending profits to the Kremlin. A price cap would limit the purchasing of Russian oil to a specified flat price or a price tied to the global oil markets. Countries and entities would be banned from purchasing oil from Russia higher than the predetermined price cap or be at risk of sanctions. This cooperation to buy Russian oil at a fixed price will cut heavily into the Kremlin’s ability to fund the war against Ukraine.  
 
While the G-7 proposal has been met with skepticism and criticism, this is not the United States’ first attempt to limit oil revenue for our adversaries to advance foreign policy goals. In 2012, the U.S. targeted Iran’s oil sector through a comprehensive sanctions regime in response to their nuclear program. Countries that significantly reduced oil purchases from Iran received an exception from this rule. Those that attempted to evade these sanctions were also sanctioned. The far-reaching sanctions across the international community damaged Iran’s economy.  We can similarly impair the Russian war machine with innovative strategies and international cooperation. We have seen indications of success among the early coordinated Russian sanctions, and it is with the same solidarity that a price cap must be implemented.  
 
It is important to note that Iran has a history of successfully utilizing a variety of tactics to bypass international sanctions, such as falsifying information to conceal its fingerprints on products sold in the global energy market. The United States and its allies should be vigilant in preventing an alternative route for the Kremlin to sell sanctioned Russian oil through Iran, as there has been heightened alignment between the two countries in recent months.  
 
The United Arab Emirate’s relationship with Russia has also attracted significant attention due to its strategic trading port Fujairah. This trading port has created an alternate opportunity for Russian oil to be kept in storage and sold as an ‘Arabian blend.’ The UAE’s actions violate international laws and undermine democratic reform efforts.?The United States and our allies should strengthen oversight measures regarding relabeling Russian oil by the UAE. 
 
The United States can provide technical and moral leadership to encourage as many countries as possible to participate in this price cap. We must work with G-7 countries to ensure it is implemented efficiently, with cost-plus pricing and a centralized payment authority to prevent side deals. The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) within the Treasury Department is effective in enforcing our nation's economic sanctions. We request that the Treasury Department and the G7 utilize OFAC to put in place an enforcement structure for transparent implementation and rigid security. The centralized enforcer should also provide guidance to the private maritime insurers, shippers and oil companies that are active participants in oil trading. We should also ensure that U.S. sanctions regarding the transport of Russian oil exports to low-income countries are in line with those of our EU allies and prohibit providing insurance or other financial assistance relating to those exports. 
 
With appropriate coordination, this regime will release the necessary oil into the market at lower prices, to reduce inflation, and help prevent further accumulation of hard currency for the Kremlin.  
 
Our response to Russian aggression in Ukraine sets the example for all authoritarian countries considering unprovoked violence against another sovereign state. Alongside our allies, the U.S. has responded swiftly and effectively, but we can and must do more. Winter is fast approaching, and international coordination to implement price caps and shipping sanctions will be critical. We must sustain our commitment to Ukraine and our core, defining belief in a world safe for democracy. Thank you for your attention to this important matter. 

###
 

At Dunkin’, we’re always looking for ways to do more for the environment and the farmers we depend on. Where our coffee comes from and how it’s sourced is important to us. That’s why we’re launching a new program called the Dunkin’ Drive-To Sustainability Program, committing to 100% responsibly sourced coffee by 2025.

To fuel our sustainability goals, we’ve partnered with like-minded organizations. Together we’re working to support the regions where our coffee grows, and make a difference in the lives and livelihoods of coffee farmers and producers.

The Dunkin’ Drive-To Sustainability Program is comprised of three pillars: Verification, Partnerships, and Improvement. As part of the first pillar, we are partnering with Enveritas, a 501(c)(3) non-profit founded to overcome systemic barriers that prevent the application of proven solutions for ending poverty among smallholder coffee growers.

By leveraging our Coffee Policy and third-party verification with Enveritas, we aim to improve standards with U.S. roasters and international licensees, audit our U.S. coffee supply chain to ensure policy compliance, and track key performance indicators toward continuous improvement efforts.

Here’s just a sample of what we’re doing under our pillars of Partnerships and Improvement:

Supported the planting of 450,000 trees in coffee growing regions of Honduras and Guatemala in 2021 with a donation to One Tree Planted, a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to helping the environment by planting trees in countries around the world.
 
Trained farmers and farmworkers in Honduras through our Farmworker Training Project alongside the Louis Dreyfus Company. This project enhanced our suppliers’ abilities to make improvements on sustainability issues.
 
Boosting coffee sustainability through agricultural science as a leading sponsor of the nonprofit World Coffee Research (WCR). A percentage of sales from every pound of Original Blend coffee beans sold to Dunkin’ franchisees for use in Dunkin’ restaurants go to WCR.
 
Since 2018, we’ve been a part of The Sustainable Coffee Challenge, a collaborative effort led by Conservation International to make coffee the world’s first sustainable agricultural product.
 
To empower women in coffee, we’ve supported providing coffee suppliers in Guatemala and Colombia with access to Equal Origins’ Virtual Learning Journey.
 
Over the next three years, alongside global agri-business company Olam Food Ingredients (OFI), we’ll help 350 coffee farming families in Santa Barbara and Comayagua, Honduras become more economically sustainable and better environmental stewards through trainings and improved crop yields.

WSAR News has obtained a letter authored by the General Manager of the Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority and addressed to Fall River Mayor Paul Coogan, copies of which were also sent to Fall River's Legislative Delegation, indicating that as the City of Fall River is a member of SRTA, for the which the city expends some $1.5 million, its MBTA Share is more than covered by that expenditure alone. 

Fall River Voters will be asked a question as part of the November General Election Ballot regarding MBTA membership, with Commuter Rail set to return to Fall River for the first time since 1958. 

Service will start to Boston's South Station in the Fourth Quarter of 2023. 

While Patriots Starting Quarterback Mac Jones seeks a second opinion on his injured ankle, Patriots Head Coach Bill Bellichick is indicating that Jones is ''day-to-day''.

The first injury report of the week will be reported by both Green Bay and New England later this afternoon. 

The Patriots have given no indication of the severity of the high ankle sprain that Jones sustained on his final pass in Sunday's loss to Baltimore. 

On Tuesday September 27, 2022 at approximately 1p.m. Officers Jonathan Souza and Kristopher Sousa
responded to the area of Oak St. and Bank St. for a report of an armed robbery which had occurred earlier
in the day.
The victim explained to officers that as he entered his vehicle on Oak St., he was approached by an unknown
male. The male brandished a knife and demanded money from him. The victim complied with his demands
and the suspect fled on foot. The victim was able to safely follow the suspect and observed him entering a
nearby residence.
Officers located a male fitting the victim’s description at that residence. He was taken into custody and
transported to the Fall River Police Department Headquarters to meet with detectives.
At the conclusion of the investigation Ronald S. Joncas 56, of Fall River was charged with the armed robbery
which occurred on the morning of September 27, 2022. He was also charged in connection with the armed
robbery which occurred at the Star Market on Sunday September 25, 2022. 

Three contractors have been charged with stealing more than $64,000 in wages from 14 workers connected to construction work at a school in Woonsocket According to NBC 10 in Providence, The three contractors involved with drywall installation at RISE Prep Mayoral Academy in Woonsocket in 2018 and 2019 identified as 33-year-old Eduardo Benitez, 36-year-old Teresa Rojas, and 25-year-old Yuliana Gonzalez. Prosecutors say the three are accused of failing to pay the 14 workers and misappropriating the $64,000 and not paying the workers a rate of $50 or more per hour, and instead paying the workers between 20 to 25 per hour. It is alleged the three kept the difference to themselves for personal use and that they also submitted false payroll documents to the state. Each has received respective charges due to false documentation and mishandling of money as well as Three counts of unlawful appropriation of over $1,000.

The three are scheduled to be in Providence County Superior Court on October 25 for a pretrial conference.

According to CBS 12 in Providence, police are investigating robberies that happened at four Fall River businesses over the last several days. The first robbery was reported Sunday afternoon at the Star Market on Bank Street, while The second robbery happened two hours later at the Walgreens on South Main Street. Now police are stating a third robbery took place Monday at the Citizens Bank on Rodman Street. where a bank teller told officers a man wearing a face covering approached her window and demanded money. The suspect then left the bank and took off running. The last robbery happened early yesterday morning at the Seasons Corner Market on William S. Canning Boulevard. The store clerk said a man entered the store and demanded cash from the register. It’s unclear whether investigators believe any of the incidents are connected, though detectives don’t believe the first two robberies were committed by the same suspect.

Anyone who has any information regarding the robberies is asked to contact the Major Crimes Division or tips can also be submitted anonymously by calling (508) 672-TIPS (8477).

The Green Bay Packers will take on New England Sunday at Lambeau Field, with pre game on the Patriots Radio Network on WSAR at 1pm and a 4:25pm kickoff. 

The Patriots are 10.5 point road underdogs this Sunday, with the over/under of 40. 

BOSTON, MA—Boston Red Sox right-handed pitcher Garrett Whitlock today underwent a successful right hip arthroscopy. Dr. Bryan Kelly performed the surgery at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York.

Whitlock is expected to be ready for the start of the 2023 season.

New Bedford, Massachusetts – The City of New Bedford is extending the application deadline for the Vacant or Abandoned Property Rehabilitation Program from September 30, 2022 to December 30, 2022.

            Launched in July 2022, the program’s goal is to revitalize neighborhoods and combat the impacts of residential, commercial, or industrial blight by providing financial support for projects that will return vacant or abandoned properties to productive use.  The Program is supported by the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and will benefit properties in qualified census areas.

The Program is seeking substantial projects that have additional revenue sources and are ready to move forward quickly. Supported projects must begin funded activities within one year of the grant award, and total project costs must be at least $750,000. Support from the Program may not exceed 50% of total project costs. Chain stores and franchises are ineligible, and renovations or demolitions must not result in a reduction of the total number of occupiable housing units. 

All improvements must be approved by the New Bedford Historical Commission, which will act as the City’s Design Review Board to evaluate projects for their aesthetic, architectural, or urban design quality, and compatibility with nearby development.

The Program defines vacant properties as those that are not legally occupied and have been unoccupied for at least six months. Abandoned properties are vacant and in a blighted condition, meaning one or more of the following qualities: unsecured; open to the weather; boarded-up windows and doors; disconnected or non-operating utilities; uncovered swimming pool; or the presence of perishable food, dangerous substances or chemicals, animal litter, trash, or debris. 

Eligible activities supported by the Program include: 

• Rehabilitation, renovation, or costs to secure vacant or abandoned properties to reduce their negative impact; 

• Costs associated with acquiring and securing legal title of vacant or abandoned properties, and other costs to position the property for productive use; 

• Removal and remediation of environmental contaminants or hazards from vacant or abandoned properties, in compliance with environmental laws and regulations;

• Demolition or deconstruction of vacant or abandoned buildings (including residential, commercial, or industrial buildings) paired with greening or other lot improvements as part of a strategy for neighborhood revitalization; 

• Greening or cleanup of vacant lots, as well as other efforts to make vacant lots safer for the surrounding community;

• Inspection fees and administrative costs to ensure compliance with environmental laws and regulations for demolition, greening, or other remediation activities.

Responses may be emailed to arpa@newbedford-ma.gov. Questions about the Program can also be sent to the above address. Learn more on the City’s ARPA website: www.newbedford-ma.gov/arpa.
##
 

MassDOT Advisory: Taunton
 
New Traffic Pattern Change Operations on Route 24 Northbound at Route 140 Interchange
 
Work will occur on Friday, September 30, and on Saturday, October 1, during overnight hours from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. the following morning
 
Traffic pattern change is needed to support bridge demolition and replacement operations and will be in effect through June 2024 
 
 
TAUNTON - The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is announcing it will be instituting a traffic pattern change on Route 24 northbound at the interchange with Route 140 in Taunton.  The work to complete the change to the new traffic pattern will be conducted on Friday, September 30, and on Saturday, October 1, during overnight hours from 8:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. the following morning.  The new traffic pattern will then be in effect until June 2024.  
 
All northbound travel lanes will be shifted to the west to the paved median throughout the work zone in order to allow crews to safely and expeditiously complete the demolition of three existing bridges and construction of replacement bridges on Route 24 northbound. 
 
Drivers who are traveling through the affected areas should expect delays, reduce speed, and use caution. 
 
All scheduled work is weather dependent and/or may be impacted due to an emergency. 
 

A Section of Water Main on Columbia Street is set to be shut down from Grant Street to Fountain Street in Fall RIver starting at 9PM  on Wednesday, September 28, with other locations in the immdiate area depending on the location of isolation valves. 

The work is not expected to be more than 8 hours for the anticipated work. 

Door Hanger Notification tags are being placed on the door of consumers that are likely to be impacted. 

Its advised that water be drawn for use prior to the shutdown, 

For More Information you can dial the Water Distribution and Maintenance Department for The City of Fall River at 508-324-2720. 

According to CBS 12 in Providence, a Taunton man pleaded guilty last week to possessing hundreds of images and videos of child pornography. The 60 year old Rudy Frabizio, was charged with one count of possession of child pornography following an investigation last year. Frabizio was arrested in May of 2021 after federal agents searched his residence and found a memory card that contained images and video files of child pornography. Frabizio was convicted in April 2009 for possession of child pornography and ordered to register as a sex offender as well.

He is scheduled to be sentenced December 9 and faces up to 20 years in prison.

Fall River Police are looking for suspects in connection with a pair of armed robberies on Sunday. According to NBC 10 in Providence, The robberies occurred a few miles apart, but police believe they are not connected. Police said the first occurred just just before 3 p.m. on Sunday at the Star Market on Bank St. when the store clerk told responding officers that a white male came into the store and waved a weapon while demanding money from the register where The clerk said they complied with the demands and the suspect fled on foot. Around an hour later, police responded to reports on an unarmed robbery at Walgreens Pharmacy on South Main St. The clerk at the store told officers a white male approached the register and handed her a note demanding money where that clerk complied as well and the suspect fled on a bicycle.

Anyone with information on either robbery is asked to contact the Major Crimes Division and You can also submit information anonymously at 508-672-TIPS (8477).

Dartmouth High School unveiled a new plaque Friday honoring its mascot, which the town overwhelmingly agreed to keep earlier this year. According to CBS 12 in Providence, the Dartmouth Indian first came under scrutiny back in February, when the Selectman John Haran said he was approached by a member of the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head Aquinnah who was concerned about the logo. The town overwhelmingly opted to keep the high school’s logo, and the school committee followed suit. Discussions of abandoning the logo started around a time when potentially offensive team logos sparked a national conversation regarding what’s appropriate.

The town also established an Indigenous People History and Culture Committee, which will review the culture, history and diversity of indigenous peoples.

Dartmouth Police have arrested a New Bedford man who was found inside of a stolen vehicle Friday. According to ABC 6 in Providence, the male was spotted by police as 33-year-old Douglas Torchia who was inside the parked car outside of the Moby Dick Motel. The officer arrested Torchia at the scene when investigators found a spring-loaded, double-edged blade when searching him. Torchia was charged with receiving a stolen motor vehicle, carrying a dangerous weapon, receiving stolen property, and receiving a stolen credit card.

He also had two outstanding warrants for larceny of a motor vehicle.

Average gasoline prices in Massachusetts have fallen 8.9 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.55/g today, according to GasBuddy's survey of 2,830 stations in Massachusetts.

Prices in Massachusetts are 50.5 cents per gallon lower than a month ago and stand 49.2 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average price of diesel has declined 5.1 cents in the last week and stands at $4.88 per gallon.

According to GasBuddy price reports, the cheapest station in Massachusetts was priced at $2.97/g yesterday while the most expensive was $5.31/g, a difference of $2.34/g. The lowest price in the state yesterday was $2.97/g while the highest was $5.31/g, a difference of $2.34/g.

The national average price of gasoline has risen 3.2 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.67/g today. The national average is down 17.5 cents per gallon from a month ago and stands 49.3 cents per gallon higher than a year ago, according to GasBuddy data compiled from more than 11 million weekly price reports covering over 150,000 gas stations across the country.

Historical gasoline prices in Massachusetts and the national average going back ten years:
September 26, 2021: $3.06/g (U.S. Average: $3.17/g) September 26, 2020: $2.10/g (U.S. Average: $2.19/g) September 26, 2019: $2.54/g (U.S. Average: $2.65/g) September 26, 2018: $2.86/g (U.S. Average: $2.87/g) September 26, 2017: $2.66/g (U.S. Average: $2.56/g) September 26, 2016: $2.13/g (U.S. Average: $2.20/g) September 26, 2015: $2.22/g (U.S. Average: $2.28/g) September 26, 2014: $3.40/g (U.S. Average: $3.34/g) September 26, 2013: $3.55/g (U.S. Average: $3.42/g) September 26, 2012: $3.87/g (U.S. Average: $3.80/g)

Neighboring areas and their current gas prices:
Rhode Island- $3.41/g, down 11.8 cents per gallon from last week's $3.53/g.
Worcester- $3.58/g, down 9.0 cents per gallon from last week's $3.67/g.
Providence- $3.42/g, down 9.1 cents per gallon from last week's $3.51/g. 

"One of the longest gas price declines on record has finally come to an end after 14 weeks, with gas prices shooting up in several regions amidst myriad refinery issues from the West Coast to the Great Lakes and in between," said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy. "I don't know that I've ever seen a wider gamut of price behaviors coast to coast in my career. A slew of unexpected refinery disruptions, including fires and routine maintenance, have seemingly all happened in a short span of time, causing wholesale gas prices to spike in areas of the West Coast, Great Lakes and Plains states - and some of those areas could see prices spike another 25-75 cents per gallon or more until issues are worked out. In addition, as Tropical Storm Ian nears the U.S. coast, some refiners could see limited disruption. As a precaution, GasBuddy has activated its Fuel Availability Tracker for motorists in Florida, Georgia, Alabama and South Carolina. Hopefully, disruptions will be very limited due to Ian, but there remain many factors driving prices both up and down across the country."

GasBuddy is the authoritative voice for gas prices and the only source for station-level data. GasBuddy's survey updates 288 times every day from the most diverse list of sources covering nearly 150,000 stations nationwide, the most comprehensive and up-to-date in the country. GasBuddy data is accessible at http://prices.GasBuddy.com.

The Patriots Starting Quarterback has a High Ankle Sprain, according to the Digital Edition of the Boston Globe, with an MRI set for today. 

Its possible Mac Jones could be out for several weeks, depending on how severe the injury is. 

Jones was hurt in the fourth quarter of Sunday's loss versus Baltimore; posts on Twitter indicated that those near the enterence to the locker room could allegedly hear Jones screeaming in pain after he was helped off the field. 

The Red Sox were swept by the Yankees over the weekend, and are now officially eliminated from any post season contention. 

The final game of the weekend series  lasted six innings, before a massive rainstorm hit Yankee Stadium Sunday Night, with Aaron Judge on deck trying to secure his 61st home run, which would tie the Amercian League Single Season Home Run Record set by Roger Maris in 1961. 

The Yankees shut out the Sox 2-0. 

The Red Sox have seven of their final 10 games in Fenway Park, beginning tonight with a four game series versus Baltimore, with three games at Rogers Center in Toronto, and a final series starting next week versus Tampa Bay. 

The NFL Network reported that X-Rays of Mac Jones' left ankle proved to be negative after he limpted off the field and allegedly screamed in pain in the Patriots locker room, but there are fears of a high ankle sprain that could be determined with an MRI later today. 

The Patriots are 1 and 2 on the season after losing to Baltimore on Sunday. 

The Patriots will be in Green Bay for Week 4 of the NFL Season with a 4:25 kickoff. 

According to ABC 6 in Providence, a Fall River woman pleaded guilty yesterday to sexually exploiting children she was babysitting, including a two-year-old. The 27 year old Nichole Cyr,  was arrested after images and videos of the abuse, involving the toddler and a 7-year-old, were found on her phone. the footage showed Cyr sexually abusing the two-year-old multiple times and now  faces a minimum sentence of 15 years with five years supervised release, and a fine of 250 thousand dollars. 

In 2020, a 51-year-old  man in the commonwealth was arrested for receiving child pornography from Cyr.

BOSTON, MA—The Boston Red Sox today placed second baseman Trevor Story on the 10-Day Injured List with a left heel contusion, retroactive to September 19. To fill Story’s spot on the active roster, the club recalled first baseman/third baseman Bobby Dalbec from Triple-A Worcester.

Chief Baseball Officer Chaim Bloom made the announcement.

Story, 29, has not played since exiting from Boston’s game on September 11 against the Baltimore Orioles with left heel pain. The right-handed hitter has batted .238 (85-for-357) with 22 doubles, 16 home runs, and 66 RBI this season.

He ranks tied for second on the team in home runs and fourth in RBI. Story has made 92 starts at second base in 2022, the first of his career. He is tied for the lead among American League second basemen with 10 outs above average.

Dalbec, 27, has hit .250 (12-for-48) with five home runs and eight RBI in 13 games with Worcester since being optioned on September 4. The right-handed hitter is batting .211 (64-for-304) with 22 extra-base hits and 36 RBI in 111 games for Boston this season. Dalbec has appeared in 89 games at first base, 20 at third base, two at second base, and one at shortstop for the Red Sox in 2022.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2022

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (1-1)

DID NOT PARTICIPATE

S Kyle Dugger- Knee

WR Jakobi Meyers - Knee

LIMITED PARTICIPATION
S Joshuah Bledsoe - Groin
DB Cody Davis - Calf
DL Davon Godchaux - Back
LB Raekwon McMillan - Thumb

CB Jalen Mills - Hamstring

DL DaMarcus Mitchell - Knee
S Adrian Phillips - Ribs

FULL PARTICIPATION
No Players Listed.

BALTIMORE RAVENS (1-1)

DID NOT PARTICIPATE
TBD

LIMITED PARTICIPATION

WR Devin Duvernay - Concussion

CB Marlon Humphrey - Groin

CB Marcus Peters - NIR rest/knee

TE Isaiah Likely - Groin
WR James Proche II - Groin
T Ronnie Stanley - Ankle
DB Brandon Stephens - Quad
CB Damarion Williams - Ankle

FULL PARTICIPATION

RB J.K. Dobbins - Knee

DT Travis Jones - Knee

QB Lamar Jackson - Right Elbow

This article first appeared on The Athletic.com

Boston Celtics coach Ime Udoka had an intimate and consensual relationship with a female member of the team’s staff, sources told The Athletic on Wednesday.

Udoka has now been suspended for one season by the Celtics.

Udoka, 45, was heading into his second season at the helm in Boston after taking over for Brad Stevens, who became president of basketball operations.

The Celtics went 51-31 in the regular season last year and made it to the NBA Finals. Udoka was previously an assistant coach with the San Antonio Spurs, Philadelphia 76ers and Brooklyn Nets.

Prior to coaching, he had a professional playing career that included time in the NBA and overseas.

Joe Mazzulla has been promoted to the role of interim head coach for the upcoming season. 

Mazzulla, 34, has been a rising name in coaching ranks for some time, the only full assistant on Brad Stevens’ staff that stayed on for Udoka’s regime (Player development coach Tony Dobbins was also promoted to assistant.) He was a surprise finalist for the Jazz job, a rare feat for someone who isn’t even a front bench assistant.

But Mazzulla is well-respected for his game-planning on both sides of the ball and has the kind of understated but steady demeanor that has defined Stevens and Udoka’s tenures.

BOSTON – United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha announces that, in accordance with an agreement reached with Massachusetts state District Court Judge Shelley M. Richmond Joseph, Judge Joseph has today referred herself to the Massachusetts Commission on Judicial Conduct, a forum that is designed to investigate and address judicial misconduct and to make final recommendations on discipline to the Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts, the state’s highest judicial body.

As part of this agreement, Judge Joseph has also made factual admissions that the Commission can consider as part of its review, along with the public allegations previously made in this case.

Former court officer and co-defendant Wesley MacGregor, who is no longer employed by the Massachusetts state court system, has entered into a deferred prosecution agreement with the United States with respect to the single count of perjury with which he is charged.  

In light of these agreements, the United States has filed a motion to dismiss three of the four counts of the pending indictment, and to defer prosecution on the final count against Mr.  MacGregor. This will resolve the entirety of the pending federal prosecution. 

“This case is about the conduct of a sitting state court judge, on the bench, in the course of her judicial duties. Its purpose has been to shed light on, and, as warranted, to secure accountability for that conduct,” said U.S. Attorney Cunha.

“After I was assigned to oversee this matter, I undertook a full and comprehensive review of the evidence, the applicable law, and relevant equitable and prudential factors. Having done so, I have concluded that the interests of justice are best served by review of this matter before the body that oversees the conduct of Massachusetts state court judges, rather than in a continued federal criminal prosecution. The requirement that Judge Joseph refer herself to the Massachusetts Commission on Judicial Conduct and make certain factual admissions will ensure that review takes place.”

Judge Joseph and Mr. MacGregor were indicted in April 2019 in the District of Massachusetts on obstruction of justice charges for allegedly preventing an ICE Officer from taking custody of an alien defendant. Mr. MacGregor was also charged with one count of perjury.

Mr. Cunha, the United States Attorney for the District of Rhode Island, was assigned to oversee this matter by the Department of Justice upon recusal of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts.

The Somerset Middle School Building Committee could get another crack at $9.9 million in funding for a proposed new Middle School, either through a vote of the three selectmen, or going to a debt exclusion ballot in 2023. 

State Statutes allow cities and towns to go directly to voters if they so choose. 

A special Somerset Town Meeting earlier this summer rejected the idea of an additional $9.9 million to meet cost over runs for various aminities, including athletic fields and an auditorium. 

Police are asking for the public’s help identifying a man seen on surveillance footage stealing a tip jar from a Swansea burger joint Tuesday. According to CBS 12 in Providence, the glass tip jar was stolen off of the front counter at the the Five Guys Burgers and Fries on Grand Army of the Republic Highway around 7:30 p.m. The man can be seen on surveillance footage lowering the jar underneath the front counter before turning around and running out of the restaurant with it.

Anyone who recognizes the suspect or has any information on the matter is urged to contact the Swansea Police Department or emailing officer Jonathan Furtado.

According to ABC 6 in Providence, New Bedford police arrested two people earlier this week for trafficking nearly 600 grams of fentanyl. Investigators searched a home on Nash Road on Monday and found a toolbox full of drugs and other items. Inside were 33 plastic bags of fentanyl pills, weighing over 350  grams, with 11 plastic bags filled with fentanyl, weighing over 230 grams. Also included were cutting tools, digital scales, drug ledger, and three cell phones. 

Police said that they arrested the owner of the home, 44-year-old Kenny Gonzalez, and charged him with trafficking 200 grams or more of fentanyl, possession to distribute a class A drug, conspiracy to violate the drug law, and a career criminal act- violent crime or serious drug. Gonzalez’s girlfriend, 33-year-old Iliana Sanchez-Pagan, was also arrested and charged with trafficking 200 grams or more of fentanyl/morphine/opium, conspiracy to violate the drug law, and a warrant arrest.

Alumni at the Gates, Surprise Giveaways, Ticket Promotions, and Special Experiences Planned for Final Seven Home Games of the Regular Season

BOSTON, MA – The Red Sox will celebrate fans with special giveaways, ticket promotions, and experiences during the final two homestands of the regular season taking place Monday, September 26, through Wednesday, October 5, when the team plays a four-game series against the Baltimore Orioles and a three-game series against the Tampa Bay Rays.

Red Sox alumni will greet fans at Fenway Park gates prior to the 7:10 p.m. game on October 4 against the Tampa Bay Rays. For the final game of the season on October 5, all fans will be invited to run the bases after the 4:10 p.m. game, presented by L.L.Bean. In appreciation of their support this season, players will give “the shirts off their backs” to select fans after the final out of the game on October 5.

Throughout the two homestands, “Golden Tickets” will be placed underneath random Fenway Park seats allowing fans to receive exclusive items including autographed memorabilia, tickets for Opening Day 2023, Red Sox New Balance gear, premium seating for a 2023 game, a 1-hour visit with the World Series trophies and more. In addition to the Golden Tickets, seating locations will be selected at random to receive Dunkin coffee bags and gift cards, Stop & Shop gift cards, L.L.Bean lunch tote bags, MGM Springfield phone chargers, an iRobot Roomba, Aramark food and beverage vouchers, Red Sox branded Zenni sunglass frames and more.

The club is also offering special ticket promotions for the final two homestands of the season. Fenway 4-Pax, which include four tickets, four hot dogs, and four sodas for $49, are available at redsox.com for the September 26 Red Sox-Orioles matchup or October 3-5 series against the Tampa Bay Rays.

Additionally, the Red Sox will celebrate individuals who work in the entertainment industry with “Industry Night” on Monday, September 26, offering an exclusive $30 ticket that includes $20 of loaded value for food and drinks at any ballpark concession stand.

Industry Night tickets can be purchased by visiting redsox.com/industry. Tickets for the final seven games are available at www.redsox.com. Mastercard is the preferred payment method of the Boston Red Sox.
 

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – The New England Patriots announced that they have traded OL Justin Herron to the Las Vegas Raiders. Terms of the trade were not announced. In addition, the Patriots announced that they have signed K Tristan Vizcaino (pronounced – vizz-KANE-oh) to the practice squad.

Herron, 26, was drafted by New England in the sixth round (195th overall) of the 2020 NFL Draft out of Wake Forest. The 6-foot-5, 305-pounder has played in 28 regular season games with 10 starts during his first two seasons in the NFL. He started at left tackle in the Wild Card round game at Buffalo last season. Herron dressed but did not play in the first two games of the 2022 season.

Vizcaino, 26, who has spent time in the NFL with the Cincinnati Bengals, Dallas Cowboys, Minnesota Vikings, San Francisco 49ers, Buffalo Bills and Los Angeles Chargers, was signed by New England on June 10, 2022. The 6-foot-2, 205-pounder was released on Aug. 30. He has played in seven NFL games and is 9-of-10 on field goal attempts and 12-of-17 on extra points in games with the 49ers and Chargers. He did not sign with an NFL team following his college career at Washington but did sign a futures contract with Cincinnati on Feb. 2, 2019.
 

BOSTON, MA—The Boston Red Sox today placed right-handed pitcher Garrett Whitlock on the 15-Day Injured List due to a right hip impingement.

To fill Whitlock’s spot on the active roster, the club recalled right-handed pitcher Connor Seabold from Triple-A Worcester.

Chief Baseball Officer Chaim Bloom made the announcement.

Whitlock, 26, last pitched on September 16 against the Kansas City Royals, earning the win after tossing a scoreless eighth inning.

The right-hander is 4-2 with a 3.45 ERA (30 ER/78.1 IP) in 31 appearances (nine starts) this season, including a 2.75 ERA (12 ER/39.1 IP) in his 22 relief outings.

Seabold, 26, has made 19 starts for Worcester this season, going 8-2 with a 3.32 ERA (32 ER/86.2 IP). The right-hander has also made three starts for Boston, going 0-2 with an 11.91 ERA (15 ER/11.1 IP).

STATE HOUSE – “We just learned about the ruling in the long-running litigation process resulting from the 2016 legislation.  The General Assembly prohibited the tolling of passenger cars, and regardless of the eventual outcome of this lawsuit, that will not change,” said Speaker Shekarchi (D-Dist. 23, Warwick) and President Ruggerio (D-Dist. 4, North Providence, Providence).

Certain individuals have been convicted of conspiracy to launder money from online investment fraud schemes and of conspiracy to operate an unlicensed money transmitting business that laundered fraud proceeds.

The alleged scheme involved a number of purported investment fraud schemes that purported to offer investors the chance to profit from cryptocurrency arbitrage, mostly involving Bitcoin, and from exotic investments such as binary options, e.g., binary options pertaining to non-farm payroll (“NFP”) futures.  The timeframe of the alleged conduct is between the years 2015 and 2021.

The investment fraud schemes used the following names on the internet, including Facebook, and other social media:

PrimeFx a/k/a Global Prime a/k/a PrimeFx.org
BFX Investors
Coin Securities
DX Traders
FortTrades.com
FXT Investors
I-Wize.com / The I-Wize Group
MyFixTrade.com
Pinnacle Investments
Voiceprofit.com
Zebron Investments

The persons perpetrating the frauds told victim investors to send their investment money to exchangers, including the defendants Tochukwu Abel Edeh, Amen Morenike Okundaye, and their co-conspirators who then transferred money but did not invest it.

Victims
If you invested in any of the schemes listed above and would like to determine if the money laundering and money transmitting conspiracy in these cases transmitted your investment money, or if you have questions related to being identified as a victim in these cases, please send an email to USAMA.VictimAssistance@usdoj.gov and provide your name and best contact information. A member of the Victim Witness Unit will contact you.

According to CBS 12 in providence, a commission has been appointed to come up with a new state seal and motto for Massachusetts to replace the current ones due to concerns of it being racially insensitive to the state’s Indigenous communities. Some early ideas, but made no firm decisions, at a meeting Tuesday. The Special Commission on the Official Seal and Motto of the Commonwealth, made up of lawmakers, members of Indigenous tribes, historians and others, also disclosed plans to solicit feedback with a survey and several virtual and in-person public forums. The current seal that appears on state flags, which dates to the late 19th century, features a depiction of a Native American man beneath a colonist’s arm brandishing a sword. Some ideas include symbols or elements from nature that might better reflect the state and a change to the states motto Commission members stressed that all the ideas are in the early stages and nothing has been finalized.

The 20-member commission was created by the state Legislature and was supposed to complete its work by the end of this year, but has asked for an extension until next March.

According to CBS 12 in Providence, the White House announced yesterday that more than 209,000 Rhode Islanders are eligible for student debt relief from the Biden administration’s student loan forgiveness program while another 1.2 million are eligible in Massachusetts. Over 133,000 in Rhode Island 813,000 in Massachusetts are eligible non-Pell Grant borrowers as The remaining individuals are eligible Pell Grant borrowers. Pell Grant recipients are eligible for up to $20,000 in relief, while other borrowers are eligible for up to $10,000. The White House expects that more than 40 million borrowers in total are eligible for its student debt relief plan, and nearly 20 million  could see their entire remaining balance discharged. 

Payments are still set to resume in 2023.

According to ABC 6 in Providence, the Orange Line has reopened as of yesterday morning following a month-long shutdown. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority shutdown the subway line for years’ worth of maintenance work. A series of dangerous problems in the past years prompted the Federal Transit Administration to launch a review of the system, including a train that caught fire in July.

The first train's departure from Oak Grove and Forest Hills around 5 a.m Monday made the service officially resume .

According to NBC 10 in Providence,  a Texas sheriff on Monday opened an investigation into two flights of migrants sent to Martha's Vineyard by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, but did not say what laws may have been broken in putting 48 Venezuelans on private planes last week from San Antonio. Sheriff Javier Salazar, spoke against the flights that took off in his city as political posturing But he said investigators had so far only spoken to attorneys representing some of the migrants and did not name any potential suspects who might face charges. Roughly 50 migrants were taken to Joint Base Cape Cod from Martha's Vineyard on Friday. Some Democrats have urged the Justice Department to investigate the flights, including California Governor Gavin Newsom and U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro, whose district includes San Antonio.

It’s not clear whether anyone boarded buses or planes unwillingly, or that their civil rights were violated.

According to ABC 6 in Providence,  a pair of catalytic converters were stolen from Morency Floors in New Bedford over the weekend. New Bedford police said that the thefts were reported to them at about 11 a-m. Saturday as a video was able to show a person entering the parking lot and then leaving with a bag. The business’ owner, Randy Santerre, said that the converters were stolen from his work van and that he has had his property vandalized with graffiti over the last few months. 

Police said that they are still investigating the incident.

According to CBS 12 in Providence, a Rehoboth man suspected of selling drugs out of his home was arrested after a three-month-long investigation. The 37 year old Michael Young, is charged with possession with intent to distribute a class B, C and E substances, as well as trafficking in roughly 100 pounds of marijuana. Rehoboth police said they searched Young’s home on Allens Lane Thursday and found items associated with the trafficking, sale and distribution of narcotics. He was ordered held on 100 thousand dollar bail and appeared in court Friday.

BOSTON, MA—The Boston Red Sox today selected right-handed pitcher Franklin German to the active roster from Triple-A Worcester. To make room for German, the club designated catcher Kevin Plawecki for assignment.

Chief Baseball Officer Chaim Bloom made the announcement.

German, 24, is making his first appearance on a 40-man roster. The right-hander is 5-2 with a 2.72 ERA (15 ER/49.2 IP) in 43 relief appearances between Worcester and Double-A Portland this season.

German made his Triple-A debut with the WooSox in 2022, posting a 2.58 ERA (11 ER/38.1 IP) with seven saves, a 0.94 WHIP, and 10.8 strikeouts per nine innings (46 strikeouts) in 32 outings.

Selected by the New York Yankees in the fourth round of the 2018 First-Year Player Draft out of the University of North Florida, the Queens, NY native is 13-19 with a 3.93 ERA (107 ER/245.1 IP) in 97 career appearances (41 starts) in the Yankees (2018-19) and Red Sox (2021-22) systems. German is ranked by MLB.com as the Red Sox’ No. 28 prospect.

Plawecki, 31, played in 61 games for Boston this season, making 46 starts at catcher while batting .217 (34-for-157) with nine extra-base hits and 12 RBI. The right-handed hitter signed with the Red Sox as a free agent prior to the 2020 season and batted .270 (107-for-396) with 26 extra-base hits and 44 RBI in 148 games over the last three seasons, making 104 starts at catcher.

Lawyers for Civil Rights (LCR) today called upon U.S. Attorney Rachael Rollins and Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey to formally open criminal investigations into the political stunt that brought two planeloads of immigrants to Martha’s Vineyard earlier this week.

 LCR now represents more than 30 of the individuals who were victimized by these unlawful actions.
In the letters sent today, LCR detailed how its clients were induced to board airplanes and cross state lines under false pretenses. Individuals, working in concert with State officials, including the Florida Governor, made numerous false promises to LCR’s clients -- including of work opportunities, schooling for their children, and immigration assistance -- in order to induce them to travel.  Once the planes landed, those who had induced individuals to travel under these false pretenses disappeared, leaving the immigrants to learn that the offers of assistance had all been a ruse to exploit them for political purposes.

Particularly given the deliberate, intentional, and concerted nature of the interference by State actors into federal immigration enforcement, LCR emphasizes that a strong and coordinated federal response is required. 

The formal request for an investigation comes on the heels of LCR's staff, volunteers, and pro bono attorneys experiencing threats and harassment. LCR's website -- http://lawyersforcivilrights.org -- was also sabotaged as the organization's attorneys escorted the Vineyard 50 to the base in Cape Cod. 
U.S. Attorney Rollins has stated that she is working with federal authorities in other States that have experienced similar conduct.  

LCR urges immediate law enforcement action to protect the rights of the Vineyard 50, preserve evidence, and hold perpetrators accountable.  
 

BARNSTABLE – Today, the Baker-Polito Administration announced an update regarding the shelter and humanitarian supports being provided at Joint Base Cape Cod (JBCC) for the approximately 50 migrants who arrived in Martha’s Vineyard this week.

The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) continues to lead coordination efforts among state and local officials to ensure access to food, shelter and essential services for these men, women, and children.

Governor Charlie Baker has officially activated up to 125 members of the Massachusetts National Guard as part of this relief effort.
 
On Friday, September 16, the Commonwealth offered the migrants a voluntary transition from the Martha’s Vineyard facility to JBCC. State officials provided transportation to individuals and families from the island to a temporary shelter on JBCC, where a broad range of services have been established to support urgent needs. 
 
The dormitory-style space at JBCC allows organizers to create specific housing areas for families, who will remain together as a unit, women, and any person with specific needs including medical care. Dedicated space for these groups ensures their continued safety, security, and privacy. 

MEMA continues to collaborate closely with state agencies and non-profit organizations to provide individuals and families with access to a variety of services that are presently underway, including: 

•    Clothing and hygiene kits 
•    Food & Drink
•    Assessment of needs, including ongoing transportation needs
•    Access to health care, mental health, and crisis counseling services
•    Access and technical capabilities to ensure ongoing access to legal services
•    Case Management for accessing temporary housing and educational services for children
•    Bi-lingual staff and Interpreter services

In addition to MEMA, the robust response of state and local agencies includes the Executive Office of Health and Human Services, the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security, the Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development, the Massachusetts National Guard, the Massachusetts State Police, Dukes County, and Barnstable County, as well as state, local and federal elected officials.
  
DONATION GUIDANCE: The Commonwealth greatly appreciates the many generous offers of donations and help from people and organizations across the state. At this time all immediate needs of shelter clients are being met though existing resources provided by our state partners, and the voluntary organizations assisting us in this temporary shelter operation

. Unsolicited volunteers and donations cannot be accepted at Joint Base Cape Cod. Individuals and organizations looking to support emergency relief efforts like this should send an email to the Massachusetts Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters at MAVOAD@gmail.com.

The New England Patriots are a three point road underdog this coming Sunday in Baltimore, as the Patriots secured the first win of the NFL Season Sunday in Pittsburgh, covering a two point spread, with the Under winning the day on the scoreboard. 

You'll hear the game on the Patriots Radio Network Sunday on WSAR, with a 10am pregame and a 1pm kickoff, with the Red Sox and Yankees following the Patriots Post Game Sunday on WSAR. 

###

Fall River City Council Member Joe Camara is the new President of Council, securing 5 votes during a brief Special Meeting on Friday. 

Current Council Vice President Michelle Dionne secured four votes, 

The meeting marked the first apperance of now-former  Council President Pam Lebeau in Council Chambers since she resigned the Presidency amid issues that will mean an October court date after she allegedly made annoying phone calls to both members of a Westport couple.  

According to ABC 6 in providence, Massachusetts State Police are investigating a serious crash involving a motorcycle on 195 eastbound in Fall River. Troopers said the crash happened around 9-30 p.m. on the on-ramp to Route 24. Police said the crash involved a pickup truck and a motorcycle. As a 52-year-old Fall River male rider of the motorcycle was taken to the hospital with serious injuries, state police cleared the scene roughly an hour later. 

Chapter 62F refunds expected to be distributed to approximately 3.6 million taxpayers beginning in November 2022

BOSTON – Following the State Auditor’s certification yesterday that Fiscal Year 2022 (FY22) net state tax revenues exceeded allowable revenues per Chapter 62F by $2.941 billion, the Baker-Polito Administration has announced details regarding the return of this excess revenue to taxpayers. 

“Stronger-than expected state tax revenues have led to a major surplus for Fiscal Year 2022, and we are pleased to be able to return nearly $3 billion in excess revenue to the taxpayers,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “With families facing continued pressure from high prices and inflation, these returns will provide some needed relief.  Even with nearly $3 billion going back to taxpayers, significant state and federal resources remain, and we look forward to working with the Legislature to invest this funding into our economy, communities and families.”

“Strong economic growth throughout our Commonwealth, combined with careful management of state tax dollars, has resulted in a significant surplus this past fiscal year,” said Lt. Governor Karyn Polito. “In the coming months, our administration will work diligently to distribute these funds back to taxpayers, and we look forward to working with the Legislature to invest additional surplus dollars in local economies across our state.” 

In accordance with the statute, the $2.941 billion will be returned to eligible taxpayers by the Department of Revenue in proportion to personal income tax liability in Massachusetts incurred by taxpayers in the immediately preceding taxable year – Tax Year 2021.

In general, eligible taxpayers will receive a credit in the form of a refund that is approximately 13% of their Massachusetts Tax Year 2021 personal income tax liability. This percentage is a preliminary estimate and will be finalized in late October, after all 2021 tax returns are filed. To be eligible, individuals must have filed a 2021 state tax return on or before October 17, 2022. An individual’s credit may be reduced due to refund intercepts, including for unpaid taxes, unpaid child support, and certain other debts.

Individuals eligible for a refund will receive it automatically as a check sent through the mail or through direct deposit. Distribution of refunds is expected to begin in November 2022. 

"While the exceptionally high tax collections we saw in FY22 are a testament to the strength and resilience of the Massachusetts economy, we are pleased to be in a position to return a substantial portion of this revenue back to taxpayers," said Administration and Finance Secretary Michael J. Heffernan. "With many feeling the strain of rising prices, these refunds will be a welcome source of relief for more than three million hardworking individuals across the state, and we look forward to executing on the delivery of the refunds in the coming months."

In total, $41.812 billion was collected in FY22, representing overall revenue growth of more than 20% above Fiscal Year 2021. After accounting for the Chapter 62F refunds and the recently filed $840 million final FY22 supplemental budget, a surplus of $1.5 billion remains available to support permanent tax relief measures and other critical investments pending in the FORWARD/economic development bill, in combination with $2.2 billion in remaining American Rescue Plan Act funds.

Additional information about Chapter 62F taxpayer refunds, including Frequently Asked Questions and a refund estimator, is available at www.mass.gov/62frefunds. This website will be updated as additional information becomes available in the coming months. A call center will also be available to answer questions about 62F refunds beginning Tuesday, September 20, 2022 at 877-677-9727 and will be open Monday through Friday, 9am-4pm. The call center will not be able to provide exact refund amounts – however, the estimator on the FAQs page can help individuals calculate a preliminary estimate.  

About Chapter 62F
Chapter 62F is a Massachusetts law enacted by voters in 1986 via a ballot question that requires the Department of Revenue to issue a credit to taxpayers if total tax revenues in a given fiscal year exceed an annual cap tied to wage and salary growth in the Commonwealth. 

The law requires that the Department of Revenue submit a report to the State Auditor on the net state tax revenues and the allowable state tax revenues for each fiscal year by September 1st. The State Auditor then makes the determination of whether net state tax revenues exceed allowable state tax revenues – and, if so, by what amount – on or before the third Tuesday of September. View the State Auditor’s report for Fiscal Year 2022.

The Chapter 62F process has been triggered once before, in 1987. 

View the full statute: https://malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleIX/Chapter62F.
 

 Lawyers for Civil Rights continues our work on the ground for vulnerable immigrant families who were flown to Martha’s Vineyard earlier this week as part of a craven and inhumane political stunt.

 In the last 24 hours, we have interviewed dozens of impacted individuals, some who arrived with children as young as 2 years old, visibly shaken.

            The stories our clients tell are heartbreaking – and infuriating.  We learned of their long and perilous journeys from their home countries, of their arrival in the United States and their processing by federal immigration authorities.

 Then – in a still unbelievable turn of events engineered by the Florida governor – our clients tell how they were induced to board planes with false representations of work assistance and immigration relief in Boston.  Mid-flight, they were informed they were not going to Boston after all, but to Martha’s Vineyard.  They were dropped on the island without notice to anyone in the community.

            This cowardly political stunt has placed our clients in peril.  Upon arrival, numerous individuals had to be rushed to the hospital, in need of medical care. Some now have immigration hearings as early as Monday thousands of miles away.

            Our legal team at Lawyers for Civil Rights, supported by an extensive corps of pro bono attorneys and other allies, have screened 50 immigrants for protection and relief, are assisting them with navigating the immigration process, and are documenting their painful experiences.  

We are urging law enforcement authorities to investigate criminal charges against the Florida governor and his accomplices, and are continuing to explore all other available legal remedies.  Throughout, the Edgartown Church and the Martha’s Vineyard community have mobilized to provide amazing community support. LCR's legal team will escort the immigrant families off of Martha's Vineyard.

On a parallel track, LCR is exploring legal options -- civil and criminal -- to hold the responsible parties accountable.

            Here in Massachusetts, we will not stand idly by and allow human beings to be treated as political props.  We are affording our clients the dignity and respect they deserve, and will continue to do so until justice prevails.

The New England Patriots (0-1) and the Pittsburgh Steelers (1-0) announce the following player injuries and practice participation.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2022

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (0-1)

DID NOT PARTICIPATE
QB Mac Jones - Illness

LIMITED PARTICIPATION
LB Ja'Whaun Bentley - Toe
T Trent Brown - Ankle
S Joshuah Bledsoe - Groin
S Adrian Phillips - Ribs
RB Pierre Strong Jr. - Shoulder
CB Shaun Wade - Ankle

FULL PARTICIPATION
No Players Listed.

PITTSBURGH STEELERS (1-0)

DID NOT PARTICIPATE
LB T.J. Watt, Pectoral (Placed on IR)

LIMITED PARTICIPATION
DT Cameron Heyward - Not Injury Related / Rest
OL Mason Cole - Ankle

FULL PARTICIPATION
RB Najee Harris - Foot
LB Rob Spillane - Eye
CB Levi Wallace - Ankle

RAYNHAM - The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is announcing it will be implementing a temporary intermittent detour for northbound traffic on Route 138 in Raynham.

 The detour will be in place beginning at 7:00 a.m. on Monday, September 19, and will continue weekly, Monday through Friday, during daytime hours from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. until mid-November or as weather allows.

 The detour is needed to allow crews to safely and efficiently conduct work on an active construction project.

The daytime detour will be as follows:

•    Traffic travelling in the northbound direction on Route 138 will be directed to take a right onto Elm Street.
•    Take a left onto Ann Street.
•    Take a slight left onto Robinson Street.
•    Follow back to Route 138 northbound.

Drivers who are traveling through the affected areas should expect delays, reduce speed, and use caution. 
 

BARNSTABLE – Today, the Baker-Polito Administration announced new shelter and humanitarian supports at Joint Base Cape Cod (JBCC) for the approximately 50 migrants who arrived in Martha’s Vineyard this week. The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is coordinating efforts among state and local officials to ensure access to food, shelter and essential services for these men, women and children. Governor Charlie Baker also plans to activate up to 125 members of the Massachusetts National Guard as part of this relief effort.  
 
Shortly after the arrival of these individuals, Martha’s Vineyard residents joined with local and state officials to create temporary shelter and provide necessities in a moment of urgent need. However, the island communities are not equipped to provide sustainable accommodation, and state officials developed a plan to deliver a comprehensive humanitarian response. On Friday, September 16, the Commonwealth will offer transportation to a new temporary shelter on JBCC. This move will be voluntary.
 
JBCC is a facility already designated by MEMA as an emergency shelter in Barnstable County, and its existing infrastructure provides a safe temporary accommodation appropriate for the needs of families and individuals. Additionally, the facility can provide dedicated space for access to legal services and other essential services such as basic healthcare. JBCC has historically housed and cared for displaced individuals, including Louisiana residents fleeing the impact of Hurricane Katrina, as well as an alternative care medical site for Massachusetts residents during the COVID-19 pandemic.
 
In addition to MEMA, the robust response of state and local agencies includes the Executive Office of Health and Human Services, the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security, the Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development, the Massachusetts National Guard, the Massachusetts State Police, Dukes County and Barnstable County, as well as state, local and federal elected officials.
 
“We are grateful to the providers, volunteers and local officials that stepped up on Martha’s Vineyard over the past few days to provide immediate services to these individuals,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “Our Administration has been working across state government to develop a plan to ensure these individuals will have access to the services they need going forward, and Joint Base Cape Cod is well equipped to serve these needs.”
 
“The Baker-Polito Administration has been in close contact with providers and local officials on the ground in Martha’s Vineyard throughout this process,” said Lt. Governor Karyn Polito. “We will continue to work with officials at all levels of government to make sure everyone has access to the appropriate resources, including shelter.”
 
“While Wednesday’s arrival on Martha’s Vineyard was unexpected, the extraordinary response was not,” said Public Safety and Security Secretary Terrence Reidy. “The work of so many state and local partners exemplify the best values of our Commonwealth, providing safe shelter, food and care for individuals that had been through a long harrowing journey.” 
 
MEMA is collaborating with state agencies and non-profit organizations to ensure that individuals and families have access to a broad range of services, including legal, health care, food and other needs. 
 
The individuals and families will be housed in dormitory-style spaces at JBCC, with separate spaces accommodating both individuals and families. Families will not be separated.
 
As part of the emergency planning process in any situation, state officials deploy a “wraparound” service approach which includes accommodation, clothing and hygiene kits, nutrition, needs assessment, and access to health care, mental health, and crisis counseling services. All services will be available in the recipient’s native language through interpreters.  
 
The Administration is aware of many charitable individuals and organizations who wish to donate items to those in need. Please note that Joint Base Cape Cod is not logistically able to accept donations of any kind. MEMA is establishing a process to accept relief donations, and additional information is forthcoming.
 
 

BOSTON – A Westfield woman was arrested and charged today in connection with a hoax bomb threat made against Boston Children’s Hospital.

Catherine Leavy, 37, was charged with one count of explosive materials - willfully making a false bomb threat. She was arrested this morning at her home in Westfield and, following an initial appearance this afternoon before U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Judith G. Dein, was detained pending a detention hearing scheduled for Sept. 16, 2022 at 12:00 p.m.

According to the charging documents, in August 2022, federal agents began monitoring threats made against Boston Children’s Hospital and its employees. Among the wide range of healthcare services it provides, Boston Children’s Hospital is home to the Gender Multispecialty Service (GeMS) program – the first major healthcare program in the United States to focus on gender-diverse and transgender adolescents.

On Aug. 30, 2022, Boston Children’s Hospital received a telephonic bomb threat, in which the caller allegedly said, “There is a bomb on the way to the hospital, you better evacuate everybody you sickos.” As a result of the call, the hospital and surrounding area was placed on lockdown status and a bomb squad was dispatched. An investigation determined no explosive devices were located at Boston Children’s Hospital.

Law enforcement obtained subscriber and call detail records and location information for the phone number that called-in the bomb threat. Records obtained allegedly indicated the phone number was subscribed in Leavy’s name and that it pinged off a cell tower nearby Leavy’s residence at the time the bomb threat was made.

During a search of Leavy’s residence this morning pursuant to a federal search warrant, the phone used to make the threat from Leavy’s residence was recovered.

The charge of making threatening communications in interstate commerce provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

United States Attorney Rachael S. Rollins; Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Westfield Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nadine Pellegrini and Jared C. Dolan, Chief and Deputy Chief of Rollins’ National Security Unit, respectively, are prosecuting the case.

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

BOSTON, MA – The 2022 Red Sox players will take photos with fans on the field before the Red Sox-Royals matchup on Sunday, September 18, from 11:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. The invitation is open to fans of all ages attending the game. Gates will open 30 minutes early at 11:35 a.m. for the 1:35 p.m. matchup

.

After entering Fenway Park, staff will guide fans to step onto the warning track, where they will take photos with players. Fans are asked to bring their own cameras. The photo session is weather permitting. Following Sunday’s game, kids will be invited to participate in “Kids Run the Bases,” presented by L.L.Bean.

Fans interested in attending Sunday’s game can visit www.redsox.com to purchase tickets. Mastercard is the preferred payment method of the Boston Red Sox.

Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker has appointed Todd McGhee, Managing Partner of Protecting the Homeland Innovations, LLC, as a member of the Bristol Community College Board of Trustees.

Todd McGhee, a resident of Attleboro, Mass., earned his bachelor's degree in criminal justice from Northeastern University and a master's degree in criminal justice from Anna Maria College. He started his law enforcement career in 1987 and is retired from the Massachusetts Department of State Police after serving twenty-four successful years in public safety. As a highly dedicated professional,

Mr. McGhee thrives on imparting his knowledge and expertise as a trainer/instructor and is committed to helping lessen the dangers of potentially hazardous and life-threatening situations.

He is an international trainer and speaker on counterterrorism and violent extremism. Todd is the author and course developer of the Behavior Observation Skills (BOS) course and the Airport Physical Screening (APS) course written for the Department of State, Office of Antiterrorism Assistance.

Both courses are currently being delivered around the world to U.S. Partner Nations to help combat against global terrorism and to build international relationships with the United States. He has made several appearances on WHDH Ch7, ABC Ch5, NECN, NBC Boston and other main media as a law enforcement and security analyst providing insight on international and domestic terrorist-related case studies, active shooter, school safety and police use of force issues.
 
Bristol Community College’s Board of Trustees is made up of regional business and community leaders who work tirelessly to ensure the college’s institutional initiatives remain at the highest level of quality. 

Lawyers for Civil Rights (LCR) is appalled by the recent actions apparently spearheaded by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis to fly dozens of immigrants to Martha’s Vineyard, an island off the coast of Massachusetts.  It is unconscionable to treat human beings – especially members of such a vulnerable population – like pawns to make a political point.

LCR attorneys and staff are currently on the ground in Martha’s Vineyard, meeting with the affected immigrants.  We are helping to connect them with local services to ensure their immediate needs are met.  At the same time, we are also investigating the inhumane manner in which they were shipped across the country, to determine the responsible parties, whether state or federal criminal laws against human trafficking and kidnapping were violated, and what other legal remedies are available.

To undertake this effort, in rapid-response fashion, LCR is convening pro bono attorneys, immigration specialists, law enforcement, and social service providers.  The situation on Martha’s Vineyard is unfolding rapidly.  We will continue to post additional information as it becomes available.
 

BOSTON – Today, Governor Charlie Baker issued the following statement on the arrival of migrants in Martha’s Vineyard on Wednesday:
 
“On behalf of the Commonwealth, I thank everyone on the ground who quickly came together to provide assistance on the Vineyard.

The Commonwealth has many resources for assisting individuals that arrive in Massachusetts with varying immigration statuses and needs and is working with all partners involved to make sure those resources are available to the migrants that arrived last night.

In addition, the Baker-Polito Administration is exploring setting up temporary shelter and humanitarian services at Joint Base Cape Cod and will share additional information as soon as it becomes available.” – Governor Charlie Baker 
 
 

DARTMOUTH, FALL RIVER, and WAREHAM Mass. – Southcoast Health is now offering the updated COVID-19 booster vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech for people ages 12 years and older, as well as updated boosters from Moderna for people ages 18 years and older.

As of September 1, 2022, both of the new bivalent COVID-19 boosters were authorized by the FDA and recommended by the CDC. 

According to the FDA, a single booster dose with an updated bivalent COVID-19 vaccine will provide broad protection against COVID-19 and better protection against illness caused by the Omicron variant.  

Southcoast Health is offering the vaccines at each of the not-for-profit community health system’s clinics in Dartmouth, Fall River, and Wareham. It is recommended that anyone age 12 or older who has completed a primary COVID-19 vaccination series or received a booster dose at least two months ago receive an updated booster. 

Individuals can book an appointment through MyChart or Southcoast Health’s online COVID-19 vaccine scheduling portal. You do not need a Southcoast Health primary care provider to make an appointment.  

“Southcoast Health is proud to continue to offer COVID-19 vaccination, including the bivalent boosters, to all eligible members of our community and encourages ongoing vaccination to protect against severe illness related to COVID-19,” said Tonya Johnson, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for Southcoast Hospitals Group.

With the new boosters available, there are different recommendations for COVID-19 vaccines for those who are moderately or severely immunocompromised.  

Please click here to view the latest CDC booster shot recommendations.
 

The Fall River City Council will meet Friday Afternoon at 6:15 to select a new Council President to serve until the final day of December. 

Its not known if now former Council President Pam Lebeau will be in attendence to cast a vote. 

WSAR has been told by various Government Center sources that former Council Presidents Joe Camara and Shawn Cadime are trying to secure five votes. 

###

According to CBS 12 in Providence, Dartmouth Public Schools is making it easier for students to get on and off the bus with a new app you can access on your phone. When they upgraded their mapping software, Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations, James Kiely said it offered an app for parents, caregivers and students to track their school bus during morning and afternoon dropoff. Kiely said their Tremblay buses are all equipped with the new GPS devices, which started on the first day of school as well as Parents who received over the summer explaining how they would work.

The app ideally would prevent students from missing their bus and ending up being tardy or absent from school.

According to CBS 12 in Providence, the Seekonk Police Department was gifted a puppy by Boonefield Labradors which will be working as a comfort dog in the town’s schools, an initiative neighboring towns have begun, such as Somerset. He will start his first shift in the coming weeks, but police are asking for the public’s help naming him. Anyone who wants a chance to name the puppy is asked to comment on the department’s Facebook post with a final name announced on Friday, September 23.

According to NBC 10 in providence, A 20-year-old man was reportedly attacked by a group of people wearing masks in Fall River just after midnight on Monday. Officers responded to the emergency room at Saint Anne’s Hospital for a patient with stab wounds which police termed to be non-life threatening. The man told police the group attacked him and stole his wallet and his shoes. The man said he got a ride to the hospital after he noticed stab wounds on his leg. Police did not immediately release his name. 

A location for the incident was unclear as the incident is under investigation.

According to ABC 6 in providence, a man riding an unregistered dirt bike was seriously injured in a crash in Fall River over the past weekend. Saturday, Fall River police responded just before 5 in the afternoon to the area of Robeson Street and President Avenue. The call was for a 23-year-old male dirt bike rider who was speeding and performing wheelies, was thrown from the bike when he crashed into a car at the intersection. He was taken to Rhode Island Hospital with serious but non-life threatening injuries. The driver was charged with negligent operation, operating a recreational vehicle on a public roadway, unregistered recreational vehicle and a recreational vehicle equipment violation.

A passenger in the car was taken to Charlton Memorial Hospital with minor injuries.

According to ABC 6 in Providence, a truck crashed into a school van yesterday morning in the city. Taunton police said the crash happened on Harrison Street just after 7:30 a.m. Investigators said that the truck hit the van’s mirror on the passenger’s side while trying to pass. There were two students inside of the van as well as the driver when the crash occurred but no one was injured in the crash. The families of both students were immediately filled in on what happened and the students made it to school safely. 

The Patriots announced today that they have signed WR Lil'Jordan Humphrey to the 53-man roster from the practice squad, placed RB Ty Montgomery II on injured reserve and signed OL Marcus Cannon to the practice squad. 

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – The New England Patriots announced today that they have signed WR Lil'Jordan Humphrey to the 53-man roster from the practice squad, placed RB Ty Montgomery II on injured reserve and signed OL Marcus Cannon to the practice squad.

Humphrey, 24, was signed by New England as a free agent on June 16, 2022. He was released on Aug. 30 and signed to the practice squad on Aug. 31. The 6-foot-4, 225-pounder elevated to the active roster prior to the season-opener at Miami and saw limited action against the Dolphins before reverting back to the practice squad. He originally signed with the New Orleans Saints as a rookie free agent out of Texas in 2019.

Humphrey has played in 19 regular season games with six starts and has accumulated 16 receptions for 295 yards and three touchdowns. He has also played in two postseason games with one reception for 14 yards.

Cannon, 34, was originally drafted by the Patriots in the fifth round (138th overall) of the 2011 NFL Draft out of Texas Christian. The 6-foot-6, 335-pounder was traded by New England to the Houston Texans on March 18, 2021.

Cannon made 69 starts for the Patriots from 2011 through the 2019 season before opting out of the 2020 season. Cannon is a three-time Super Bowl champion with the Patriots as part of an offensive line that finished with a top-10 offense seven of his nine NFL seasons.

Cannon earned Associated Press All-Pro: Second Team honors in 2016 and was named the Patriots 2011 Ed Block Courage Award winner – an annual award presented to select NFL players who are voted by their teammates as role models of inspiration, sportsmanship and courage.

Overall, he has played in 119 regular season games with 73 starts. Cannon has also appeared in 19 postseason games with 11 starts. He has made 68 starts at right tackle, two at left tackle and three at left guard in the regular season and all 11 playoff starts have come at right tackle. Cannon was limited to just four starts at right tackle in 2021 for Houston and was released on March 15, 2022.

Green Monster ticketholders to wear orange as Stop & Shop and the Red Sox affirm their pledge to "Strike Out School Hunger"; Game day food drive at Fenway Park on September 17th will benefit the Stop & Shop School Food Pantry Program

Quincy, Mass. - In honor of Hunger Action Month, Stop & Shop and the Boston Red Sox are continuing their commitment to fight hunger in our local communities with a special Hunger Action Month activation on September 17 at Fenway Park.

For the first time ever, an "orange out" will occur on the Green Monster when ticketholders seated in the area will be gifted with orange t-shirts, the color of hunger relief, to raise awareness of hunger in the United States. Stop & Shop will also host a food drive at the ballpark, and ticketholders are encouraged to bring donations of non-perishable items to the collection bins at each entrance of Fenway Park, which will be donated directly to Boston Public Schools that are part of the Stop & Shop School Food Pantry Program.

According to the USDA, more than 1 in 5 children lives in a food insecure household. Launched in 2019, the Stop & Shop School Food Pantry Program works directly with schools to establish and support food pantries to ensure that kids don't have to go to school hungry. Stop & Shop supports over 140 in-school pantries thus far in the City of Boston, Lynn, Fall River, and communities across New England.

"Limiting the barriers that can impact a student's ability to succeed and making sure kids have consistent access to food is the reason we created the _Stop & Shop School Food Pantry Program_," said Gordon Reid, President of Stop & Shop. "Together with The Boston Red Sox, we're raising awareness during Hunger Action Month and hope to encourage New Englanders to come out and donate at Fenway Park on September 17 - or to do their part to help our neighbors who may not know where their next meal is coming from."

As champions of the New England community, Stop & Shop and the Boston Red Sox began their partnership earlier this year by announcing a multi-year campaign to Strike Out School Hunger, with a pledge to donate 10,000,000 meals to students who are facing food insecurity. For each Red Sox strikeout during regular season home games, Stop & Shop, now the Official Grocery Store of the Red Sox, is donating 10,000 meals to support the Stop & Shop School Food Pantry Program. Stop & Shop's generous partners that have joined the Stop & Shop School Food Pantry Program and are participating in the Hunger Action Month event at Fenway Park include Cheerios, Knorr, Old Spice, Pepperidge Farm, and smartwater.

"The Red Sox are proud to further our partnership with Stop & Shop in recognition of Hunger Action Month," said Troup Parkinson, EVP, Partnerships, Boston Red Sox. "Building up the next generation of Red Sox fans includes ensuring that our community has the resources needed to thrive, and that includes access to food. We invite Red Sox Nation to join us in recognizing Hunger Action Month on September 17 by giving back to our community to raise awareness of this important cause."

Game day ticketholders who want to participate in the food drive can help by bringing items to donate including cereal, pasta, rice, oatmeal, granola bars, peanut butter, jelly, fruit cups and canned goods such as vegetables, beans, soup and tuna.

To learn more about The Stop & Shop Food Pantry Program, visit https://stopandshop.com/pages/school-food-pantry-program.

The November General Election Ballot in Rhode Island was set on Tuesday, as Incumbent Democratic Governor Dan McKee secured the Democratic Nomination by a three thousand vote margin for the right to face Rhode Island Republican Nominee for Governor Ashlee Kalus, who secured 86 percent of the vote in a two-contender race. 

Seth Magaziner will run with no November opposition, securing a two year term in Congress from the Rhode Island Second District. 

While now-former Fall RIver City Council President Pam Lebeau resigned the Presidency of the Council on Tuesday, she'll remain a member of the nine-member body while she continues to sort out her legal issues pertaining to a series of alleged annoying phone calls to a Westport Couple this Spring and Summer. 

A Fall River Superior Court Judge gtranted a continuiance in the case on Tuesday in the Fall RIver Justince Center; Lebeau's arraignment now could happen in Mid-October. 

Corporation Counsul Alan Rumsey urged Council members to hold off on a vote on a new Council President  Tuesday Night, indicating there could be  open meeting law issues. 

Tiverton police said Monday that they're looking for an SUV that ran over a man in an apparent road-rage confrontation. According to NBC 10 in Providence, surveillance video showed a dark-colored Acura SUV fleeing the scene on Bulgarmarsh Road on Sunday night. Investigators said the 32-year-old man who was struck had been driving a Volkswagen, but stopped to get out. Police said the SUV stopped, backed up and accelerated toward the man, who was dragged roughly 50 feet before he was run over. The SUV sped away as Police found the man unresponsive, stating the victim was in critical condition.

Tiverton police asked anyone with information about the case to call the station.

Voters in Rhode Island will be able to make their primary selections today. According to ABC 6 in Providence, polls across the Ocean State opened as early as 7 a.m. Some key races that we’ve been keeping an eye on at ABC 6 News include both the Democratic and Republican gubernatorial nominations. Incumbent Governor Dan McKee faces former Secretary of State Matt Brown, Helena Buonanno-Foulkes, Secretary of State Nellie Gorbea, and Luis Muñoz on the Democratic side. For the Republican nomination, the battle remains between Ashley Kalus and Jonathan Riccitelli. There are two candidates competing for the Democratic nomination against Incumbent Lieutenant Governor Sabina Matos.

There are seven total candidates looking to land Rhode Island’s second congressional district seat, six of them are Democrats. The winner will face Republican Allan Fung in November’s general election.

Fall River City Council President Pam Lebeau will wait until next month as her inital court appearance in the Fall River Justice Center on allegeations of making annoying phone calls to a Westport Couple was continued till Mid-October. 

Lebeau made no mention of her legal issues at an August City Council session, amid rumors that a City Council Session tonight could see some attempt made at using Charter Provisions to oust her from the Presidency while retaining her council seat. 

  The ACLU of Rhode Island issued the following statement today in response to reports that the Providence Police Department intends to triple the number of Flock Safety surveillance cameras in the city, announcing this decision less than two weeks after commencing a pilot program with the surveillance devices: 
 
“The interest of the Providence Police Department in creating a mini-surveillance state in the city has never been clearer.

Anybody interested in preserving privacy should be truly concerned as the department plans to triple the number of cameras spying on motorists in the city, not only without allowing sufficient time to gather data from the pilot program it is currently engaged in, but especially as a resolution signed by a majority of City Council members opposed to this surveillance languishes in committee.

The announcement of these plans also flies in the face of the testimony the department recently received, after seeking public input, that overwhelmingly expressed concerns about these surveillance devices. 
 
“As we have previously noted, the police department’s policy governing use of this invasive surveillance technology is woefully deficient in protecting privacy and is bound to be used in ways that undermine basic civil liberties.  
 
“We urge the City Council to act expeditiously in establishing clear and restrictive guidelines on the implementation of the surveillance cameras currently in place and in halting their expansion.” 

BOSTON, MA – September 12, 2022 – The City of Boston, Hockey East Association, and Fenway Sports Management (FSM), today announced the return of outdoor college hockey at Fenway Park with Frozen Fenway 2023 presented by Moderna and the U.S. Virgin Islands, which will feature a Women’s college matchup between Boston University and Holy Cross and a second to be announced contest, as well as two Men’s college games featuring Northeastern vs. UConn and UMass vs. Boston College on January 7. Tickets for the January 7 doubleheader are on sale starting September 22.

“We are thrilled to bring college hockey back to Fenway Park for the fifth time, continuing a tradition established in 2010,” said Brett Miller, Director, Special Events at Fenway Sports Management. “New England is home to some of the top hockey programs and most passionate fans, so this year’s Frozen Fenway promises exciting contests and memorable experiences for all who attend.”

(Women’s Doubleheader – game date and times to be announced):

• Boston University vs. Holy Cross
• To Be Announced Saturday, January 7, 2023

(Men’s Doubleheader):

• Northeastern vs. UConn at 2:30 p.m.
• UMass vs. Boston College at 6:00 p.m.

“Fenway Park is an iconic venue that has already played host to memorable college hockey games, and our schools are excited to take the ice and compete for our fans and bragging rights,” said Hockey East commissioner Steve Metcalf. “These games at the park will create once-in-a-lifetime memories for the players, students, alumni, and all hockey fans. We are proud to be part of such a special event and appreciate the City of Boston and FSM for welcoming us back.”

On the heels of the 2023 NHL Winter Classic between the Boston Bruins and Pittsburgh Penguins, Frozen Fenway 2023 presented by Moderna and the U.S. Virgin Islands will feature some of the most prestigious teams in college hockey. On the men’s side, the four participating teams have combined to win 16 Hockey East Tournaments and 6 NCAA Tournaments. The Hockey East women’s matchup features the joint-winningest school, Boston University, against the conference’s newest member, Holy Cross.

Visit redsox.com/frozenfenway for January 7 ticket information and additional Frozen Fenway schedule updates. Details for the Boston University-Holy Cross doubleheader, including game date, times, and ticket availability, will be announced at a later date.

About Fenway Sports Management (FSM)

Fenway Sports Management (FSM) is a global sports marketing firm that specializes in partnership sales, consulting, and the creation of unique and memorable events and experiences. The company serves as the sponsorship sales arm for FSG’s prestigious sports portfolio, including the Boston Red Sox, Liverpool Football Club, the Pittsburgh Penguins, New England Sports Network (NESN), and RFK Racing. In addition to representing FSG’s network of properties, FSM also serves as the exclusive marketing agency for LeBron James through a strategic partnership with LRMR Ventures.

Outside of sponsorship sales, FSM serves as the sponsorship consulting agency to several brands, advising them on how to use sports as a platform to realize their business goals through a variety of services including strategy development, negotiation, and activation. The firm is also an industry leader with its Special Events practice which creates, plans, and executes a broad spectrum of unique sports and entertainment events that range from large-scale, public events at iconic sports venues, to private, corporate events.

About Hockey East

The Hockey East Association is an 11-team Division I college men’s hockey conference founded in 1984 and a 10-team Division I women’s league which began play in 2002-03. The men’s league has won 10 NCAA championships in the past 28 years, most recently in 2021. Since 1999, Hockey East has won eight men’s NCAA Championships with 17 NCAA Championship Game appearances, while placing 28 teams in the Frozen Four and 77 teams in the NCAA Tournament. Overall, Hockey East has sent 121 teams to the men’s NCAA Tournament since its inaugural season, more than any other conference in that span. Hockey East is home to 11 Hobey Baker winners and four Patty Kazmaier winners.

mike-dussault
Mike Dussault
Patriots.com Writer

After missing his post-game press conference to get checked out in the x-ray room Sunday night, Mac Jones was back before the media on Monday afternoon virtually, appearing to have avoided a major injury after taking a hard hit during the fourth quarter of the loss to Miami.

"I definitely feel better, " said Mac. "I want to be able to be ready to play against Pittsburgh and I feel good, but yesterday just talking with the trainers, just trying to get back. Wasn't doing too hot after the game, but definitely feel a lot better."

Reports earlier in the day from NFL Network and ESPN said that Jones experienced back spasms after landing hard on his upper back while taking a roughing the passer shot from Jevon Holland early in the fourth quarter. Jones went on to play two more series in the game but could not lead the team to another score.

A potential bullet dodged, the quarterback's status will still be something to keep a close eye on this week when practice opens and injury reports are due on Wednesday.

Certainly still sore, Mac will have limited time to recover before facing a Steelers defense in their home opener coming off a five-takeaway game. Even with T.J. Watt expected to be sidelined indefinitely with injury, Pittsburgh features an experienced and talented defensive unit with playmakers on all levels.

The Patriots offense will have to execute a lot better and eliminate their own turnover issues in their second-straight road game to start 2022 to get their first win of the season. Despite only putting up seven points against Miami, the quarterback saw potential after breaking down the game.

"After watching the film, I think we did a lot of good things," said Mac. "We just have to eliminate the really bad things. You know, in terms of actually executing the plays, it was actually a lot better than what we thought and what people probably think, but we have to score more points, take care of the football and eliminate the really bad plays. But we had plenty of good plays. Everyone fought pretty hard, and we just have to do a better job at that next week."

BOSTON, MA—The Boston Red Sox today claimed infielder Yu Chang off waivers from the Tampa Bay Rays. To make room for Chang on the 40-man roster, the club designated outfielder Jaylin Davis for assignment.

Chief Baseball Officer Chaim Bloom made the announcement.

Chang, 27, has hit .216 (32-for-148) with four home runs in 58 Major League games this season between the Cleveland Guardians, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Rays. A right-handed hitter born in Taitung, Taiwan, he made Cleveland’s Opening Day roster in each of the last three seasons (2020-22). Signed by Cleveland as a non-drafted free agent in June 2013, Chang has started 46 Major League games at first base, 37 at third base, 30 at second base, 14 at shortstop, and three at designated hitter.

Davis, 28, is 4-for-12 (.333) with two RBI in 12 games for Boston this season, appearing in four games in center field, three in right field, and one in left field. Selected by the Minnesota Twins in the 24th round of the 2015 First-Year Player Draft out of Appalachian State University, the right-handed hitter has also batted .212 (64-for-302) with seven home runs in 86 Triple-A games this season between Sacramento and Worcester.

EVERETT – The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) in partnership with Encore Boston Harbor (EBH) and GameSense launched “PlayMyWay,” a voluntary budgeting tool available on electronic games at EBH. PlayMyWay is designed to allow Wynn Rewards players the ability to monitor the amount of money they spend, and to support their decision to continue or stop play. PlayMyWay is an innovative budgeting tool currently available to patrons at Plainridge Park Casino, MGM Springfield and now accessible at EBH.?? 
? 
PlayMyWay is an optional benefit for Wynn Rewards players, which allows them the opportunity to personalize their play by setting a budget before they begin gambling.??? 
? 
“Encore Boston Harbor has collaborated with the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, the Massachusetts Council on Gaming and Health and GameSense, to develop responsible gaming strategies since day one,” said Jenny Holaday, president of Encore Boston Harbor. “PlayMyWay is a natural extension of those efforts, empowering our guests with new technology to proactively manage their playing decisions.” 
 
PlayMyWay is intended to help players make decisions about gambling, allow them to monitor and understand their playing behavior in real time, and support their decisions.? The PlayMyWay program is the latest tool added to MGC’s wide-ranging and unique responsible gaming framework known as GameSense.???? 
?? 
“Providing players with all the necessary information and resources available will help them make well informed decisions about their gambling, including when to stop and how much to spend,” said Mark Vander Linden, MGC’s Director of Research and Responsible Gaming. “PlayMyWay supports informed player choice by giving people the opportunity to set a budget before they begin, and then reinforcing that decision through the gambling session. We’re thrilled that this tool is now available at each Massachusetts casino.”?? 
?? 
Patrons at EBH can sign up for PlayMyWay by inserting their Wynn Rewards card into any slot machine, electronic game, or at the PlayMyWay Kiosk at the GameSense Info Center. Card holders will be prompted to choose a voluntarily daily, weekly and/or monthly budget to track their spending at EBH. Once enrolled, patrons will receive automatic notifications as they approach and reach the budget they set.?If a player continues to play, notifications will be received at 25% intervals. This program is voluntary, and a player can un-enroll or adjust the budget at any time.?? 
?? 
“Responsible gaming is always front of mind in all the work we do at the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, and PlayMyWay is another tool to help patrons keep their gambling safe and fun,” said MGC Chair Cathy Judd-Stein. “Encore Boston Harbor has embraced this program as a tool that can help their customers. The launch of PlayMyWay at Encore Boston Harbor marks a completion of the MGC’s goal of offering a uniform platform for slot machine players to set a budget and track their play at any Massachusetts casino.” 
?? 
PlayMyWay was originally rolled out as a pilot program at Plainridge Park Casino in 2016 and recently at MGM Springfield in April 2022. Now a fixture at both properties, PlayMyWay currently has nearly 32,000 patrons enrolled between the two properties. PlayMyWay at EBH is a custom-designed application developed by IGT. The integrated play management software utilizes a simple, easy to understand interface that includes graphics to aid players.  
?? 
Patrons who are interested in learning more about the program are encouraged to visit the GameSense Info Center inside EBH to talk with a GameSense Advisor about the program. 
? 
“For many, gambling can be a fun form of entertainment, but much like other fun activities, it’s easy to spend more time playing than originally intended – and as a result, exceed your entertainment budget,” said Marlene Warner, Executive Director for the Massachusetts Council on Gambling and Health. “PlayMyWay allows players to voluntarily pre-commit to a spending budget and then adds helpful transparency to their spending in real-time, empowering them to make informed and healthy choices.”? 

Westwood, MA, September 12, 2022 — The average gas price in Massachusetts is down 12 cents from last week ($3.92), averaging $3.80 per gallon. Today’s price is 50 cents lower than a month ago ($4.30), and 72 cents higher than September 12, 2021 ($3.08). Massachusetts’ average gas price is 9 cents higher than the national average.

The national average price for a gallon of gas fell seven cents in the past week to reach $3.71, a level not seen since the beginning of March. The primary reason for this decline is the recent lower cost for oil.

“Less expensive oil usually leads to less expensive gas for drivers,” said Mary Maguire, AAA Northeast Director of Public and Government Affairs. “This trend has helped pump prices fall steadily for three straight months and, with fall approaching, more markets could soon see prices drop toward or below $3 per gallon.”  

AAA Northeast’s September 12 survey of fuel prices found the current national average to be 7 cents lower than last week ($3.78), averaging $3.71 a gallon. Today’s national average price is 26 cents lower than a month ago ($3.97), and 54 cents higher than this day last year ($3.17).
 

PROVIDENCE, RI: The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) is announcing that the emergency closure of certain shellfishing areas in Narragansett Bay ended at sunrise today. DEM put the emergency closures in place after more than 8 inches of rain fell on the Providence metropolitan area Sept. 5-6. 

Specifically, Upper Narragansett Bay shellfish Area B, West Middle Bay shellfish area (GA9), and East Middle Bay shellfish area (GA3) reopened at sunrise today. Water quality samples collected Sept. 9 by scientists in the DEM shellfish program and tested by the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) State Health Laboratories confirmed that the bacterial water quality in these shellfish areas had returned to normal, safe levels.

Greenwich Bay, Mount Hope Bay, and the Kickemuit River remain closed to shellfishing and are scheduled to reopen Tuesday, Sept. 13, at 12 PM. Also, Upper Narragansett Bay Conditional Area A and Lower Providence River Conditional Area E remain closed to shellfishing and are scheduled to reopen Friday, Sept. 16, at 12 PM.

For more information on the shellfish harvesting classifications, review the annual notice available at RIDEM - Shellfish. An interactive shellfishing map is also available. For information on emergency and conditional area water quality related shellfish closures, call DEM’s 24-hour shell fishing hotline at 401-222-2900, visit www.dem.ri.gov/shellfish, or sign up for the Office of Water Resources' listserv here: RishellfishOWR-subscribe@listserve.ri.gov
 

Dartmouth, MA – September 12, 2022 – U.S. News & World Report announced their 2023 College Rankings, which showcased UMass Dartmouth's continued excellence nationally and rankings growth in key programs. 

The University was once again a leader in the Top Performers on Social Mobility, ranking 69 in the nation and 2 in Massachusetts. Top Performers on Social Mobility ranks institutions more successful than others at advancing social mobility by enrolling and graduating large proportions of low-income students awarded Pell Grants. 

For the seventh straight year, UMass Dartmouth achieved National University status, a designation reserved for universities offering undergraduate, master's, and doctoral programs and a commitment to producing groundbreaking research. The University ranked 118 out of the 227 national public universities based on various metrics, including graduation rates, academic reputation, job outcomes, and faculty resources.

"UMass Dartmouth remains an outstanding institution in national rankings, especially for our ability to make a difference in the social mobility of our students," said Chancellor Mark A. Fuller. "As our momentum continues, our academic programs and faculty prominence are increasingly recognized for their impacts inside and outside the classroom."

In addition to the University's overall acclaim, UMass Dartmouth's academic programs climbed in the 2023 rankings. The Charlton College of Business ranked 144 in the country for Top Business Programs, up from 195 in 2020. The College of Engineering climbed ten spots to 137 in the Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs. The College of Nursing & Health Sciences moved up three spots to 93 in the Undergraduate Nursing Program.
 

According to CBS 12 in Providence, four Providence teenagers are now facing charges after police say they were caught breaking into a car in Cranston. Cranston Police confirmed In a Facebook post that at around two o’clock on  Saturday morning, a local resident interrupted the break-in when the suspects then left the scene in a stolen car crashing it shortly after, trying to get away on foot. 

Police arrested the four suspects whose ages ranged from 12 to 16 years old.

According to NBC 10 in Providence, multiple police departments were called to break up a fight during the New Bedford Whalers opening game on Friday night. Video footage shows a number of police cruisers lined up on Maxfield Street in New Bedford near the entrance of Dr. Paul F. Walsh Athletic Field on Friday. It was the first game of the season for the Whalers at home, playing against Taunton when New Bedford police said there were several disturbances in the crowd that led to the game being canceled in the third quarter. Officers from at least three departments assisted to help clear the crowd. New Bedford school officials told NBC 10 that no players on either side were involved in the fight; they said it appears an argument between two people drew others in. In a statement, New Bedford Superintendent Thomas Anderson said: "We are working with the appropriate officials to get a complete picture of the situation so we can make informed decisions regarding next steps about discipline or changes in procedures." The school district said they are reviewing the incident and Police said they found no weapons while making no arrests after a search of the area.

Fox Sports is confirming that the Patriots are a one point road favorite in Pittsburgh this Sunday as New England is on the road for the second consecutive week. 

The Over/Under opened Sunday Night at 41.5.

Mac Jones also had back x rays after the game at Hard Rock Stadium in Suburban Miami....his status for the game Sunday will be determined later this week. 

A pitch timer, limits on defensive shifts and bigger bases are coming to Major League Baseball in 2023.

Following recent experiments in the Minor Leagues, the recently formed Joint Competition Committee voted Friday in favor of three rule changes aimed at improving pace of play, action and safety at the MLB level.

The pitch timer, defensive shift limits and bigger bases were the only three rules proposed by MLB to the Joint Competition Committee -- a voting body consisting of four active players, six members appointed by MLB and one umpire, that was created as part of the 2022-26 Collective Bargaining Agreement. Though the automatic ball-strike system (AKA “robot umps”) -- and, alternatively, an ABS challenge system -- has been experimented with in select Minor Leagues this season, a formal rule change proposal related to the ABS has not been made to the committee and is not expected for the 2023 season.

PITCH TIMER

In an effort to create a quicker pace of play, there will be a 30-second timer between batters. Between pitches, there will be a 15-second timer with the bases empty and a 20-second timer with runners on base. At last check, the pitch timer had reduced the average time of game in MiLB by about 26 minutes. This rule, which includes limits on throws to first base, has also increased stolen-base attempts. With this rule in place in the Minors this season, steal attempts per game have increased from 2.23 in 2019, at a 68% success rate, to 2.83 in 2022, at a 77% success rate.

The pitcher must begin his motion to deliver the pitch before the expiration of the pitch timer.
Pitchers who violate the timer are charged with an automatic ball. Batters who violate the timer are charged with an automatic strike.
Batters must be in the box and alert to the pitcher by the 8-second mark or else be charged with an automatic strike.
With runners on base, the timer resets if the pitcher attempts a pickoff or steps off the rubber.
Pitchers are limited to two disengagements (pickoff attempts or step-offs) per plate appearance. However, this limit is reset if a runner or runners advance during the plate appearance.
If a third pickoff attempt is made, the runner automatically advances one base if the pickoff attempt is not successful.
Mound visits, injury timeouts and offensive team timeouts do not count as a disengagement.
If a team has used up all five of its allotted mound visits prior to the ninth inning, that team will receive an additional mound visit in the ninth inning. This effectively serves as an additional disengagement.
Umpires may provide extra time if warranted by special circumstances. (So if, as an example, a catcher were to be thrown out on the bases to end the previous half-inning and needed additional time to put on his catching gear, the umpire could allow it.)
Note that the rule that will be used in MLB is slightly altered from the rule that was used in MiLB this year. In MiLB in 2022, it was a 14-second timer with the bases empty and 18 seconds (Double-A and lower) or 19 seconds (Triple-A) with runners on, with batters required to be in the box by the 9-second mark and a strict limit of two disengagements per plate appearance (that did not reset if the runner advanced). In its most recent week of play, the Minors have seen an average of .45 violations per game.

DEFENSIVE SHIFT LIMITS

The defensive team must have a minimum of four players on the infield, with at least two infielders completely on either side of second base. These restrictions are intended to increase the batting average on balls in play, to allow infielders to better showcase their athleticism and to restore more traditional outcomes on batted balls. As of this writing, the league-wide batting average on balls in play of .291 in 2022 is six points lower than in 2012 and 10 points lower than in 2006. 

The four infielders must be within the outer boundary of the infield (i.e. cleats in the dirt) when the pitcher is on the rubber.
Infielders may not switch sides. In other words, a team cannot reposition its best defender on the side of the infield the batter is more likely to hit the ball.
If the infielders are not aligned properly at the time of the pitch, the offense can choose an automatic ball or the result of the play.
This rule does not preclude a team from positioning an outfielder in the infield or in the shallow outfield grass in certain situations. But it does prohibit four-outfielder alignments.

BIGGER BASES

The bases, which traditionally have been 15 inches square, will instead be 18 inches square. Home plate is unchanged.

Though this can have a modest impact on stolen-base success rate, the primary goal of this change is to give players more room to operate and to avoid collisions. This is especially important at first base, where fielders have an extra 3-inch advantage to stay out of harm’s way from the baserunner while receiving throws.

This change will create a 4 1/2-inch reduction in the distance between first and second base and between second base and third, which encourages more stolen-base attempts. The bigger bases could also have the effect of reducing oversliding in which a player loses contact with the bag while sliding through it.

Anthony Castrovince has been a reporter for MLB.com since 2004. Read his columns and follow him on Twitter at @Castrovince.

According to CBS 12 in Providence, Massachusetts is planning on giving out 3.5 million rapid antigen tests for COVID-19, as well as personal protective equipment, to communities across the Commonwealth. Distribution of the at-home tests will be based on population size AS An additional 1 POINT 5 million tests will also be sent to food banks across the state. Communities can request tests and PPE through Sept. 16, with shipment arrivals expected by mid-October.

The state previously distributed over 2 million free COVID tests last spring.

September 7, 2022

BOSTON, MA—The Boston Red Sox today placed first baseman/outfielder Franchy Cordero on the 60-Day Injured List due to a right ankle sprain, retroactive to September 6. To fill Cordero’s spot on the active roster, the club selected outfielder Abraham Almonte from Triple-A Worcester.

Chief Baseball Officer Chaim Bloom made the announcement.

Cordero, 28, exited Monday’s game against the Tampa Bay Rays in the fifth inning. The left-handed hitter has batted .219 (53-for-242) with 17 doubles, eight home runs, and 29 RBI in a career-high 84 games for the Red Sox this season, appearing in 53 games at first base, 26 in right field, 12 in left field, and two in center field.

Almonte, 33, was acquired from the Milwaukee Brewers on July 25, in exchange for cash considerations. The switch hitter has batted .293 (86-for-294) with a .951 OPS, 18 home runs, and 66 RBI in 80 Triple-A games this season between Worcester (32 games) and Nashville (48 games). A Dominican Republic Native, Almonte has hit .234 (278-for-1,186) with 23 home runs in 440 Major League games with the Seattle Mariners (2013-14), San Diego Padres (2014-15, 2020), Cleveland Indians (2015-17), Kansas City Royals (2018), Arizona Diamondbacks (2019), and Atlanta Braves (2021).

The New England Patriots (0-0) and the Miami Dolphins (0-0) announce the following player injuries and practice participation.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2022

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (0-0)

DID NOT PARTICIPATE
No Players Listed.

LIMITED PARTICIPATION
S Joshuah Bledsoe, Groin
WR Jakobi Meyers, Knee
WR Ty Montgomery, Knee
OT Isaiah Wynn, Back

MIAMI DOLPHINS (0-0)

DID NOT PARTICIPATE
No Players Listed

LIMITED PARTICIPATION
RB Salvon Ahmed, Heel
T Terron Armstead, Not Injury Related - Vet Rest
TE Tanner Conner, Knee
DT Raekwon Davis, Knee
FB Alec Ingold, Hamstring
LB Melvin Ingram, Not Injury Related - Vet Rest
CB Nik Needham, Quad
S Eric Rowe, Pectoral
LB Andrew Van Ginkel, Not Injury Related - Illness

FULL PARTICIPATION
RB Chase Edmonds, Groin
RB Myles Gaskin, Neck
WR Jaylen Waddle, Q

 Following recommendations made by the Massachusetts Drought Management Task Force, Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Beth Card today declared that except for the Southeast Region that saw improvement at the regional scale, all other regions within the Commonwealth will remain at their current drought levels. This includes the Cape Cod, Connecticut River Valley, Northeast, and Central Regions remaining at a Level 3-Critical Drought, and the Islands and Western Regions remaining at a Level 2-Significant Drought. 

The Southeast Region has been upgraded to Level 2 – Significant Drought from a Level 3-Critical Drought. When a Level-3 Critical Drought and a Level 2-Significant Drought have been declared, the Massachusetts Drought Management Plan calls for the convening of an interagency mission group, which is already meeting, to more closely coordinate on drought assessments, impacts, and responses within state government. 

These efforts are in addition to Level 1-Mild Drought actions, such as detailed monitoring of drought conditions, close coordination among state and federal agencies, and technical outreach and assistance to impacted municipalities.

Rainfall received during the later part of the month of August provided a much needed relief throughout the Commonwealth, particularly within the Southeast Region of the state where improvements were significantly made; however, the northern part of the region was still lagging. In addition, other northern parts of the Commonwealth, as well as Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket saw less than 2.5 inches of rainfall during the month of August.

Significantly, the recent rains have helped in the near term to lower fire danger and decrease the potential for newly ignited wildland fires, which have seen an increase in 2022. To date, approximately 905 wildland fires have been reported, burning an estimated 1,485 acres. 137 fires were recorded this August alone during some of the highest drought indices since 2016. In comparison, there were only 24 wildland fires reported in August 2021.

Washington, DC – House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Europe Chairman William R. Keating and Ranking Member Brian Fitzpatrick released the below joint statement following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II:

“We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

“For almost one-third of America’s history, we have known Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II as the monarch of the United Kingdom and Commonwealth. Her stature as a longstanding leader in the free world is tremendous and her legacy looms large.

Queen Elizabeth II’s passing brings about a change in leadership not seen since 1952, a transition occurring for the first time in many peoples’ lives. 

“Her reign coincided with 14 U.S. presidencies, and her rapport with American leaders has allowed for an active and steadfast connection between our two nations. America’s relationship with the United Kingdom has only become stronger during her tenure over the past 70 years.

“Our prayers and thoughts are with the Royal Family as they navigate this transition. We are also thinking of all citizens in the United Kingdom and the fourteen other countries in the Commonwealth who mourn for their Queen and her family. The United States of America mourns with you.”

Chairman Keating and Ranking Member Fitzpatrick will be submitting a House Resolution to commemorate the life, legacy, and leadership of Queen Elizabeth II.

According to CBS 12 in Providence, a 42-year-old Fall River man convicted of brutally beating his friend to death with a hammer in 2018 will spend the rest of his life behind bars. Adam Levesque was sentenced to life in prison yesterday for the murder of 39-year-old Lance Correia. Levesque was found guilty back in August following an eight-day trial, during which prosecutors proved he violently attacked Correia upon learning that 2 thousand dollars worth of heroin had gone missing. Correia was found unconscious and bleeding profusely from his head BEING hospitalized for more than a month before succumbing to his injuries.

Levesque was eventually arrested in New York and charged with second-degree murder

According to NBC 10 in Providence, the Rhode Island Department of Health announced updated COVID-19 booster shots will be available in the state this week and next. These booster doses were authorized and recommended by federal health officials and are meant to target two strains of COVID-19. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends anyone over 12 that has gotten their first series, get this booster at least two months after their most recent shot. The Pfizer bivalent booster is recommended for people 12 and over while the Moderna bivalent booster is recommended for those 18 and up. The Department said they are working to make sure residents in long-term care facilities and assisted living facilities will have access to these doses as they are at a higher risk for serious illness from COVID-19. The Department of Health said some independent and retail pharmacies such as C-V-S and Walgreens will begin scheduling appointments this week.

The Somerset Board of Selectmen have accepted the resignation of Rebecca Jennings as the Veterans Services Agent at their session this afternoon, while also agreeing to new labor contracts with union employees for the Somerset Highway Department and the Water Department, along with the Fire Department. . 

Somerset Selectmen have also approved using $600,000 in Bristol County ARPA dollars for a Valley Road Drainage Project.

With Free Cash to be certified by the end of September, a Special Town Meeting will happen on October 17 2022.

BOSTON – The Baker-Polito Administration today announced plans to distribute 3.5 million free at-home COVID-19 rapid antigen tests to municipalities to make available to residents across the Commonwealth. The new municipal distribution plan builds on the successful distribution of over 2 million rapid tests to municipalities earlier this spring. In addition to the rapid antigen tests, municipalities can also request essential PPE, including KN95, surgical and children’s masks. 
 
Allocations to municipalities will be based on population size. Municipalities can request tests and PPE through September 16, 2022, and shipments are expected to arrive before mid-October. These distributions of free tests build upon statewide contracts in place since December 2021 that allow municipalities and eligible entities to order test kits directly from manufacturers at state-negotiated prices.
 
An additional 1.5 million rapid antigen tests will also be made available to food banks in the Commonwealth, to reach those who are most vulnerable. More than 1.5 million tests have already been distributed to food banks and local organizations that support access to food across Massachusetts this year
 

The New England Patriots (0-0) and the Miami Dolphins (0-0) announce the following player injuries and practice participation.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2022

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (0-0)

DID NOT PARTICIPATE
No Players Listed.

LIMITED PARTICIPATION

WR Jakobi Meyers, Knee
WR Ty Montgomery, Knee
OT Isaiah Wynn, Back

FULL PARTICIPATION
No Players Listed.

MIAMI DOLPHINS (0-0)

DID NOT PARTICIPATE
No Players Listed

LIMITED PARTICIPATION
RB Salvon Ahmed, Heel
T Terron Armstead, Not Injury Related - Vet Rest
TE Tanner Conner, Knee
RB Chase Edmonds, Groin
RB Myles Gaskin, Neck
FB Alec Ingold, Hamstring
LB Melvin Ingram, Not Injury Related - Vet Rest
CB Nik Needham, Quad
S Eric Rowe, Pectoral
LB Andrew Van Ginkel, Not Injury Related - Illness
WR Jaylen Waddle, Quad

FULL PARTICIPATION
No Players Listed

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) announced today that West Nile virus (WNV) has been detected in mosquitoes collected in Fall River, Massachusetts.  

WNV is most commonly transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. 

The mosquitoes that carry this virus are common throughout the state and are found in urban as well as more rural areas. 

While WNV can infect people of all ages, people over the age of 50 are at higher risk for severe infection

As of 1:30am EDT, there was no confirmed winner of the Democratic Primary for Bristol County Sheriff, even though Attleboro Mayor Paul Heroux posted ''I Won! (The Primary)''.

Twenty percent of the vote in Bristol County has yet to be tabulated in Attleboro, Norton, Berkley and Mansfield. 

Heroux led Fall River Attorney Nick Bernier by a little over 1,000 votes, with former Somerset George McNeil in third,  with a little over 9,400 votes. 

Heroux and Bernier each won 7 Bristol County Cities and Towns; Bernier secured a win in Fall River while Heroux was the winner in New Bedford. 

The Defense Team for Former Fall River Mayor Jasiel Correia II and Prosecuting Attorneys for the Federal Governemnt will get 15 minutes each Thursday Morning at 9:30 to argue their respective cases before a three judge panel of the U-S First Circuit Court of Appeals in Boston's Moakely Federal Court House. 

Correia is currently serving a sentence in a New Hampshire Federal Prison Camp after being convicted in 2021 for taking bribes and corruption in connection to retail marijuana letters of non-opposition. 

Current Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healy secured 85% of the vote Tuesday to become the Democratic Nominee for Governor, as former Republican State Senator Geoff Diehl locked down 55% of the vote for a top-of-the-ticket battle in November. 

Andrea Campbell secured the Democratic Nomination for Attorney General, and will face Republican Nominee James Macmahon later this fall. 

Salem Mayor Kim Driecoll is the Democratic Nominee for Lieutenant Governor, the Republican race for that office was too close to call as of 1:30 EDT this morning. 

Diana Dizoglio is the Democratic Nominee for Massachusetts Auditor and will face Republican Anthony Amore in November. 

Bristol County District Attorney Tom Quinn secured another term in office by garnering 81% of the vote in Tuesday's Democratic Primary. 

Quinn will run with no opposition on the November General Election Ballot. 

Quinn's opponent, New Bedford based attorney Shannon MacMahon issued a statement that read in part that ''regardless of the outcome tonight, we put Tom Quinn on notice that he can no longer skate by.  We let him know that we are paying attention, and we let him know that his best is simply not good enough''.

Quinn secured the endorsements of the majority of local Democratic Officeholders and Power Brokers. 

### 

Westwood, MA, September 6, 2022 — The average gas price in Massachusetts is down 13 cents from last week ($4.04), averaging $3.91 per gallon. The state’s average hasn’t been below $4 a gallon since February of this year. Today’s price is 48 cents lower than a month ago ($4.39), and 83 cents higher than September 6, 2021 ($3.08). Massachusetts’ average gas price is 14 cents higher than the national average.

Lower oil prices, modest domestic gasoline demand, and a quiet hurricane season are combining to drive pump prices lower. The national average for a gallon of gas fell seven cents in the past week to $3.77. 

“According to weather analysts, it's the first time in 25 years that a named Atlantic storm did not develop in August. That's the good news,” said Mary Maguire, AAA Northeast Director of Public and Government Affairs. "But we still have another month of peak hurricane season, and these storms can affect gas prices by disrupting oil production and refining."

BOSTON (September 6, 2022) – The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today announced the third human case of West Nile virus (WNV) in the state this year. The individual is a male in his 20s who was likely exposed to the virus in Suffolk County in an area already known to be at increased risk. The risk of human infection with WNV is moderate to high in the Greater Boston area. 

In 2021, there were 11 human cases of WNV infection identified in Massachusetts. 

On Friday September 2, 2022 at approximately 7 p.m. Officer Brandon Antone responded to the New World Gas
Station, located at 340 Milliken Blvd. for a report that an elderly couple had been assaulted.

Upon arrival, he was approached by a 68-year-old Fall River woman who stated she and her husband had been
assaulted while at the gas station. 

She explained that when they arrived at the gas station, her husband, 66-year-old
Jose Andrade asked the woman in the vehicle in front of them to move forward to allow them to pump gasoline. At
this time, 39-year-old Roderick Dixon of Fall River approached Mr. Andrade and began arguing with him. 

The
argument eventually became physical, with Mr. Dixon punching Mr. Andrade in the face and pushing Mrs. Andrade
to the ground during the altercation. Witnesses also reported that Mr. Dixon was seen kicking Mr. Andrade in the
head while he was on the ground.

Both Mr. and Mrs. Andrade were transported to Saint Anne’s Hospital for medical evaluation.
During review of video surveillance from the business, Officer Antone discovered that it was Mr. Andrade who
initiated the physical altercation by striking Dixon in the face twice.

While Officer Antone was conducting his on scene investigation Roderick Dixon responded to the Fall River Police
Department Headquarters to speak with an Officer. During his conversation with Officer Antone, Mr. Dixon
confirmed that he had been involved in an altercation with Mr. Andrade at the New World Gas Station. He indicated
that Mr. Andrade struck him in the face twice and he retaliated.

Roderick Dixon was placed under arrest and charged with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, assault and
battery on a person over 60, assault and battery on a person over 60 with injury.
Jose Andrade is also facing criminal charges for assault in battery

BOSTON – Maura Healey’s campaign for Governor issued the following statement after Geoff Diehl won the Republican primary:

“Voters now know what their choice will be in this election.

Geoff Diehl wants to bring Trumpism to Massachusetts.

He has embraced the Trump playbook of anger and extremism, and he opposes a woman’s right to abortion access and reproductive health care,” said Healey Campaign Manager Jason Burrell.

“Massachusetts can not afford the extremism of Geoff Diehl. Our campaign is going to stay focused on bringing people together.

We’re going to deliver for Massachusetts by cutting costs for people, growing our economy and protecting abortion access and personal freedom. We look forward to the campaign ahead.”
 

FIRST, THANK YOU TO MY FAMILY, MY HUSBAND BRYAN, AND MY KIDS.  I KNOW IT’S BEEN A GRUELING SUMMER, AND I ABSOLUTELY COULD NOT HAVE MADE IT THROUGH WITHOUT YOUR SUPPORT!  SO THANK YOU!  I LOVE YOU.

THANK YOU TO MY SMALL BUT MIGHTY CAMPAIGN TEAM.  WHAT WE LACKED IN NUMBERS, WE MADE UP FOR WITH HEART, DEDICATION, AND HARD WORK!  YOU ALL MADE ME VERY PROUD!  THANK YOU!!!

TONIGHT WE MAY HAVE COME UP SHORT, BUT WE WON IN SO MANY OTHER WAYS!  

WE RAN A CLEAN CAMPAIGN, WE STUCK TO OUR MESSAGE, WE DISCUSSED THE ISSUES AND NOT PERSONAL SKELETONS.  FOR THIS, WE CAN AND SHOULD HOLD OUR HEADS UP VERY HIGH. 

REGARDLESS THE OUTCOME TONIGHT, WE PUT TOM QUINN ON NOTICE THAT HE CAN NO LONGER SKATE BY.  WE LET HIM KNOW THAT WE ARE PAYING ATTENTION.  AND WE LET HIM KNOW THAT HIS BEST IS JUST SIMPLY NOT GOOD ENOUGH.

I HAVE LEARNED A LOT DURING THIS CAMPAIGN.  I’VE LEARNED THAT POLITICS CAN GET NASTY … BUT IT DOESN’T HAVE TO.  WE PROVED THAT!  AND I’M VERY PROUD OF THAT!

SO, THANK YOU ALL ONCE AGAIN FOR YOUR SUPPORT!  IT MEANS THE WORLD!

TONIGHT, WE’LL EAT AND DRINK.  TOMORROW WE’LL REST AND RELAX.

AND WHO KNOWS WHAT LIES AROUND THE CORNER?!

GOOD NIGHT, AND GOD BLESS!

BOSTON, MA—Boston Red Sox right-handed pitcher Tanner Houck today underwent a successful lumbar discectomy. Dr. Christopher Bono performed the surgery as Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston.

Houck will miss the remainder of the 2022 season but is expected to be ready for the start of Spring Training in 2023.

The Patriots announced today that they have signed OL James Ferentz to the 53-man roster from the practice squad. In addition, the team announced the signing of WR Laquon Treadwell to the practice squad. 

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – The New England Patriots announced today that they have signed OL James Ferentz to the 53-man roster from the practice squad. In addition, the team announced the signing of WR Laquon Treadwell to the practice squad.

Ferentz, 33, was released by New England on August 30, 2022 and signed to the practice squad on August 31. Ferentz has accrued six seasons of NFL experience over the past eight years with Houston (2014), Denver (2015-16) and New England (2017-21).

The 6-foot-2, 300-pounder has played in 48 regular season games with six starts and two postseason games as a reserve during his career.

Ferentz originally entered the NFL as a rookie free agent with Houston out of Iowa on May 16, 2014. Following his rookie season on the Texans practice squad and two years with the Broncos, Ferentz originally signed with New England on May 18, 2017.

He started last season on the practice squad and was elevated to the active roster for three straight games and then was signed to the 53-man roster before finishing the year on the practice squad. Ferentz played in three games with two starts in 2021.

Treadwell, 27, is a veteran of six NFL seasons with the Minnesota Vikings (2016-19), Atlanta Falcons (2020) and Jacksonville Jaguars (2021). The 6-foot-2, 215-pounder went to training camp this past summer with the Jaguars but was released on August 29. He originally entered the NFL as a first-round draft pick (23rd overall) of Minnesota in the 2016 NFL Draft out of Mississippi.

Treadwell has played in 70 regular season games with 26 starts and has 104 receptions for 1,184 yards and five touchdowns. In addition, he has played in three postseason games with no statistics.

According to NBC 10 in Providence, the last of four defendants charged in a July 2020 double-shooting in New Bedford was sentenced to five years in state prison. Brian Ortiz pleaded guilty in Fall River Superior Court last week to assault and battery and gun counts in connection to a shooting that happened outside Petromart gas station on Coggeshall Street where Ortiz and other gang members got into a fight. Ortiz faces an additional two years of supervised probation. 

Three co-defendants were previously sentenced to prison.

According to ABC 6 in Providence, a man who was arrested in connection a New Bedford cold case rape is scheduled to be arraigned Tuesday. The 28-year-old Dylan Ponte was arrested last month after a decade-old rape kit was tested. Ponte was indicted last week on two counts of rape, two counts of indecent assault and battery on a person over the age of 14, and one case of witness intimidation. In 2012, the victim had been drinking with Ponte when she blacked out and woke up outside of her friend's home with multiple bruises on her body. In May, the rape kit connected to this case was tested and matched the DNA of Dylan Ponte from previous arrests. He is also convicted of misdemeanor domestic battery in Florida.

BOSTON, MA—The Boston Red Sox today placed right-handed pitcher Zack Kelly on the Paternity Leave List. To fill Kelly’s spot on the active roster, the club recalled right-handed pitcher Tyler Danish from Triple-A Worcester.

Chief Baseball Officer Chaim Bloom made the announcement.

Kelly, 27, has made three appearances for Boston since being selected from Worcester on August 29, the first of his Major League career. The right-hander pitched in last night’s game against the Texas Rangers, allowing two runs in the seventh inning.

Danish, 27, has a 4.02 ERA (14 ER/31.1 IP) in 26 games for Boston this season, setting career bests in appearances, innings pitched, and strikeouts (25). The right-hander most recently pitched for Worcester on August 30, throwing 1.0 inning against Buffalo.

The Patriots announced today the signing of WR Lynn Bowden Jr. to the practice squad. In addition, the Patriots placed rookie WR Tyquan Thornton on injured reserve and released DL Henry Anderson from injured reserve. 

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – The New England Patriots announced today the signing of WR Lynn Bowden Jr. to the practice squad. In addition, the Patriots placed rookie WR Tyquan Thornton on injured reserve and released DL Henry Anderson from injured reserve.

Bowden Jr., 24, was originally drafted by the Las Vegas Raiders in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft (80th overall) out of Kentucky. The 6-foot-1, 203-pounder was traded from Las Vegas to the Miami Dolphins on September 5, 2020. He played in 10 games with four starts and caught 28 passes for 211 yards and had nine rushing attempts for 32 yards as a rookie in 2020. Bowden Jr. spent the entire 2021 season on injured reserve. He was released by Miami on August 30, 2022.

A 26-year-old Dartmouth man who viciously beat his girlfriend in 2019 was convicted by a jury of his peers this week and sentenced to serve up to seven-and-a-half years in state prison, Bristol County District Attorney Thomas M. Quinn III announced.

Skye Soares was convicted Thursday of intimidation of a witness and assault and battery-causing serious bodily injury after a two-day trial in Fall River Superior Court.

On January 28, 2019, while at their apartment, the victim got into an argument with her boyfriend, the defendant.  The argument started over her not letting him see her phone.  It became physical when the defendant shoved her onto a table. She then threatened to call the police if he struck her again, at which point the defendant began to punch her in the face, breaking her nose, two bones in her cheek, eye socket, and splitting her nose and head open.

 She required staples on the top of her head and stitches on her face and nose.  The defendant then demanded that the victim drive him to his sister’s home.  Out of fear of the defendant, she did drive him although her sight was blurred by the blood pouring down her face.  

Once at his sister’s house, the defendant made her swear on her daughter’s life that she wouldn’t call police. She then went to where her 13-year-old daughter was being watched by a friend  At this home, the victim’s friends observed her injuries and asked her to call the police and go to the hospital.

 She eventually went to the hospital and out of fear of the defendant’s retaliation told them she was jumped while walking home.  She finally decided to go to the police the next morning and report that the defendant had done this to her. At the Dartmouth Police Department, officers observed her to still be bleeding and an ambulance was called, and she was taken to the hospital a second time.  

There she told the police and emergency personnel what had actually happened.  She underwent surgery on her shattered nose and still has trouble breathing, headaches and must get nerve blocking shots for the continued pain.

 
In a rare instance, the jurors in the case decided to stay in the courtroom for the sentencing phase and all offered comfort and support to the victim afterwards.  Even Judge Thomas Perrino lauded the victim for her strength and for sticking with the case despite numerous defense-initiated continuances.

“I commend the victim for her courage in reporting this crime and for her perseverance in seeing this case through.  I am very pleased the jury held the defendant accountable for the vicious beating inflicted upon the victim,” District Attorney Quinn said.  “No one should have to experience this type of brutality. A substantial state prison sentence was clearly warranted.”

The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Courtney Cahill, who is the Chief of DA Quinn’s Domestic Violence Unit. 

In addition to the six to seven-and-a-half year state prison sentence, Judge Perrino also placed the defendant on an additional three years o probation, which will include batterers counseling, anger management courses and the constant wearing of a GPS monitoring bracelet. 

DARTMOUTH - The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is announcing it will be performing overnight bridge maintenance operations on the Highland Avenue Bridge located over I-195 eastbound and westbound in Dartmouth.  The work will take place on Tuesday, September 6, and on Wednesday, September 7, during overnight hours from 7:30 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. the following morning.  All work is expected to be completed by 5:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 8.

Traffic management will consist of temporary alternating lane shifts and restrictions, and police details, as needed.   The contractor will begin work on I-195 eastbound on Tuesday, September 6, by taking the low-speed lane and the breakdown lane, and then as work progresses, switch to the high-speed lane later that night. The same order of lane takings will be in place for work on I-195 westbound on Wednesday, September 7.

Drivers who are traveling through the affected areas should expect delays, reduce speed, and use caution. 
 
All scheduled work is weather dependent and/or may be impacted due to an emergency situation. 
 

STATE HOUSE – Calling enormous rate increases proposed by Rhode Island Energy “totally unacceptable,” Sen. Leonidas P. Raptakis plans to reintroduce legislation to rein in future utility rate increases by limiting them to increases in the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

The rate requests filed with the Public Utilities Commission by Rhode Island Energy would result in electric bills that are 47% higher and natural gas prices that are about 15% higher.

A typical household that uses 500 kilowatt hours of electricity a month would see its monthly electric bill jump more than $50, from $111 to $163.

The proposed electric rate would be the highest rate since at least 2000. The typical natural gas residential customer who uses 845 therms could expect a bill that higher by about 15%, meaning they would pay about $227 more over the course of a year. Small businesses using gas would experience a similar increase.

Rhode Island Energy, formerly known as National Grid, is the sole supplier of natural gas to Rhode Island and the vastly dominant supplier of electricity.

As he has several times in the past, Senator Raptakis (D-Dist. 33, Coventry, East Greenwich, West Greenwich) is calling on the PUC to reject the proposed increases and, in the future, limit any increases by linking rate hikes to increases in the Consumer Price Index.

The legislation he plans to introduce in January – similar to a bill he last sponsored in 2014 (2014-S 2175) – would provide that any rate increase with respect to electric and gas distribution companies would be no greater than the Consumer Price Index for all urban consumers, as published by the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics.

In its most recent reporting, for July, the Bureau of Labor Statistics put the CPI for urban consumers for all items including utilities at 8.5 percent over the previous year.

“The Consumer Price Index is an economic measuring tool to adjust prices for the effects of inflation,” said Senator Raptakis. “Rather than allowing utilities to impose huge increases in the cost of their product, we can flatten out the impact of any proposed rate hikes by limiting the increase to keep it within the CPI.”

“Many Rhode Islanders are doing all they can to conserve energy already, but not many residents or business owners can expect a 47% pay increase, nor a 15% raise. It is irresponsible for Rhode Island Energy to come forward with this proposal for these huge increases at a time when many Rhode Island families are hurting and when Rhode Island businesses are struggling to survive and stay open,” said Senator Raptakis. “It is time to let the utility company, and the PUC, know that such unrealistic rate hike requests are going to be dead on arrival. Linking any rate increases to the CPI establishes realistic expectations and protects consumers from excessive rate hikes that fail to consider the current economic conditions.”
                                    
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New Bedford, Massachusetts – Free, walk-up COVID-19 clinics in New Bedford offer all CDC-approved vaccine doses and boosters, for adults and youth. Bringing your vaccination card when getting a booster shot is helpful, but not required. 
Clinics provided by Seven Hills Behavioral Health, unless otherwise marked.

NOTE: The Seven Hills vaccine clinic at former Fire Station 11 in the South End will be closed for the next two Saturdays, Sept. 3 and Sept. 10, and for the Labor Day holiday on Monday, Sept. 5. Additionally, the Seven Hills vaccine clinic at PAACA on Coggeshall Street will be held on Thursdays, not on Fridays, through September. 

Visit vaxnb.com for updated schedules of local COVID-19 vaccination and testing locations. Upcoming vaccine locations in New Bedford include:

Thursday, Sept. 8:
-    PAACA (360 Coggeshall St.) – 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., Pfizer, Moderna, J&J, vaccines and boosters for adults, and children 5 years and older

Monday, Sept. 12:
-    Former Fire Station 11 (754 Brock Ave.) – 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., Pfizer, Moderna, J&J, vaccines and boosters for adults, and children 5 years and older

Thursday, Sept. 15:
-    PAACA (360 Coggeshall St.) – 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., Pfizer, Moderna, J&J, vaccines and boosters for adults, and children 5 years and older

Saturday, Sept. 17:
-    Former Fire Station 11 (754 Brock Ave.) – 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Pfizer, Moderna, J&J, vaccines and boosters for adults, and children 5 years and older 

Monday, Sept. 19:
-    Former Fire Station 11 (754 Brock Ave.) – 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., Pfizer, Moderna, J&J, vaccines and boosters for adults, and children 5 years and older

Thursday, Sept. 22:
-    PAACA (360 Coggeshall St.) – 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., Pfizer, Moderna, J&J, vaccines and boosters for adults, and children 5 years and older

Saturday, Sept. 24:
-    Former Fire Station 11 (754 Brock Ave.) – 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Pfizer, Moderna, J&J, vaccines and boosters for adults, and children 5 years and older 

Reminder on the importance of vaccinations: 
Getting vaccinated and boosted for COVID-19 is not only about protecting yourself – it’s also about protecting your family, friends, and community. Vaccination and boosters are critically important to consider ahead of travel, holidays, and large gatherings, which can lead to super-spreader events, clusters, hospitalizations, and severe illness among people who are unvaccinated. 

State Resources for Vaccine Records, Locations 
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has free online services to find your personal vaccine records and local vaccination locations, including many pharmacies. 
Access your vaccine records at https://myvaxrecords.mass.gov/, and find local listings at https://vaxfinder.mass.gov/.

Upcoming COVID-19 Testing Sites 
New Bedford, Massachusetts – Project Beacon’s appointment-based COVID-19 testing at New Bedford Regional Airport—part of the state’s Stop the Spread program—is offering testing on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. 

Appointments for free COVID-19 tests can be made at beacontesting.com. Airport officials ask that people reach the site via the airport’s side entrance on Downey Street. 

Contact Project Beacon by email at help@beacontesting.com; or by calling 617-741-7310.

If you test positive with a rapid test, isolate for at least five days and notify close contacts. State guidance on isolation and quarantining can be found here.
If you test negative, re-testing a day or more later is advised, particularly if you have symptoms or a known exposure to the virus. 

Testing sites in New Bedford and surrounding towns can be found on the state’s Stop the Spread website, www.mass.gov/info-details/find-a-covid-19-test.

Upcoming testing locations in New Bedford include: 

Sunday, Sept. 4: 
-    Project Beacon at New Bedford Regional Airport (1569 Airport Road) – 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tuesday, Sept. 6: 
-    Project Beacon at New Bedford Regional Airport (1569 Airport Road) – 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Thursday, Sept. 8:
-    Project Beacon at New Bedford Regional Airport (1569 Airport Road) – 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Sunday, Sept. 11: 
-    Project Beacon at New Bedford Regional Airport (1569 Airport Road) – 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tuesday, Sept. 13: 
-    Project Beacon at New Bedford Regional Airport (1569 Airport Road) – 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Thursday, Sept. 15:
-    Project Beacon at New Bedford Regional Airport (1569 Airport Road) – 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Sunday, Sept. 18: 
-    Project Beacon at New Bedford Regional Airport (1569 Airport Road) – 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tuesday, Sept. 20: 
-    Project Beacon at New Bedford Regional Airport (1569 Airport Road) – 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Thursday, Sept. 22:
-    Project Beacon at New Bedford Regional Airport (1569 Airport Road) – 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.
 

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today announced the second human case of West Nile virus (WNV) in the state this year.

The individual is a male in his 70s who was exposed to the virus in Suffolk County in an area already known to be at moderate risk. The risk of human infection with WNV is moderate to high in the Greater Boston area. 

As a result of this new finding, the risk level <https://www.mass.gov/doc/key-to-color-coding-on-wnv-risk-map/download> for Boston, Brookline, Cambridge, and Somerville is being raised from moderate to high <

With a heightened police presence and members of two rival gangs watching, Joseph “JoJo” Noe of the Outlaws Motorcycle Club was found not guilty on all counts of murder and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon in the September 2019 biker brawl that left a rival club member dead outside a Bedford Street bar. According to the digital edition of the fall river herald, Noe has been out on 50 thousand dollar cash bail since September 2020 as He was facing a possible conviction for first- or second-degree murder, both of which include lifetime prison sentences, or voluntary of involuntary manslaughter. The jury of eight women and four men also cleared 28 year old Noe of Taunton on two counts of intentional assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and reckless assault and battery with a dangerous weapon. 39 year old Eric Voshell, an Oak Bluffs resident, former volunteer fireman and businessman, as well as a member of the Sidewinders Motorcycle Club died from two gunshot wounds to the back of the head at Rhode Island Hospital after a brawl outside of JC’s Café. 

The two rival motorcycle clubs had reportedly had recent interactions in the city before the fatal shooting. 

(FALL RIVER, MA- September 1, 2022)- In an effort to modernize the City of Fall River,
improve service to residents and invest in Fall River’s ongoing economic development/tourism
efforts, the City of Fall River has begun a project to redesign the City of Fall River’s official
website. The new website- which will be built with Revize, a national leader in municipal web
design- is expected to be ready for launch by late 2022.

To complement the new website, the City is searching for a new official logo through an
open-entry design competition. The public is invited to create and submit their own original
ideas for a new City of Fall River logo during the entire month of September, with the deadline
of 5:00P.M. on Friday, September 30th
.
Eligibility is not limited to professional graphic designers and participants are welcome to
submit artwork that is created digitally or in traditional mediums, such as paint, pencil, marker,
etc. Artists are asked to incorporate the unique character and history of Fall River, but must make
sure that their design is simple enough to be easily replicated in black and white, is easy to see
from a distance and can be translated into more complicated formats like embroidery. The entry
form and complete submission guidelines (including an entry guide with inspiration and the
suggested color palette), are available online at https://www.fallriverma.org/contest/.

The winning artist of the design contest will work with the City to modify their entry to
fit the many needs of a City logo. The winning artist will receive a $500 prize, sponsored by
Mayor Paul Coogan. The winner will also be recognized at an unveiling ceremony for the new
website and will be gifted with merchandise featuring the new logo.

BOSTON, MA—The Boston Red Sox today acquired minor league right-handed pitcher Taylor Broadway from the Chicago White Sox, completing the August 1 trade for left-handed pitcher Jake Diekman in which Boston also received catcher Reese McGuire. Broadway will report to Double-A Portland.

Chief Baseball Officer Chaim Bloom made the announcement.

Broadway, 25, is 3-2 with a 4.74 ERA (26 ER/49.1 IP) in 37 relief appearances for Double-A Birmingham this season, having also made three appearances for High-A Winston-Salem.

Selected by Chicago in the sixth round of the 2021 First-Year Player Draft out of the University of Mississippi, the right-hander is 4-2 with a 4.45 ERA (32 ER/64.2 IP) and 12.80 strikeouts per 9.0 innings in 52 career appearances (one start), recording 92 strikeouts and only 18 walks.

BROCKTON – Massachusetts State Police and Brockton Police continue to investigate a motor vehicle crash that left one man dead and four others injured, Plymouth County District Attorney Timothy J. Cruz has announced.

    At approximately 8:28 last night, Brockton Police received multiple 911 calls stating that there was a motor vehicle crash on Pleasant Street at Nye Avenue. Brockton Police, Brockton Fire and Brewster EMS arrived on scene and found that two pedestrians had been struck by a motor vehicle. One of the pedestrians, Edisson Matza, 24, of Brockton, was pronounced dead at the scene. The second female pedestrian struck was transported to Brockton Hospital by EMS before she was later transported to Boston Medical Center with serious injuries.

    The motor vehicle crash scene ran approximately 50 yards along Pleasant Street. One vehicle, a Mercedes sedan was located on the eastbound side of Pleasant Street with heavy damage to the front and rear of the car. The operator of this motor vehicle was transported to Brockton Hospital with minor injuries.

    Another vehicle, a Hyundai Elantra, was located approximately  50 feet east of the Mercedes. The Elantra sustained heavy front end damage. The driver of the Elantra was uninjured in the crash.

    A motorcycle was located approximately 50 feet from the Mercedes. The operator was transported to Good Samaritan Hospital with minor injuries. 

    Another second motorcyclist involved with the crash was also transported to Good Samaritan with minor injuries.

Preliminarily, it appears that the initial motor vehicle crash involving the pedestrians triggered a second crash involving two motorcycles, which in turn caused a third crash involving one of the motorcycles and another motor vehicle.

The investigation is ongoing at this time.

BOSTON, MA - The Red Sox today announced that the 2023 Spring Training exhibition season begins Friday, February 24, at JetBlue Park at Fenway South in Lee County, Florida, where the team will launch the season with a game against the Northeastern University Huskies. The club will play 18 home games and 16 away games, including 32 Grapefruit League games against seven American League teams and four National League teams. Red Sox Spring Training is presented by CVS Health.

For the first time since 2017, a World Baseball Classic exhibition game will be played at JetBlue Park on Wednesday, March 8. The Red Sox opponent for the World Baseball Classic matchup will be announced at a later date.

The Red Sox will play 11 games against divisional opponents, including two against their American League East rival New York Yankees. The club will face the Yankees on Friday, March 9, at George M. Steinbrenner Field in Tampa and will host the Yankees at JetBlue Park on Sunday, March 12. Other divisional matchups include four games against the Tampa Bay Rays, three games against the Baltimore Orioles, and two against the Toronto Blue Jays. The team will also square off against the Atlanta Braves, Minnesota Twins, Miami Marlins, Houston Astros, Philadelphia Phillies, Detroit Tigers, and Pittsburgh Pirates.

The Red Sox will look to defend their Lee County Commissioners Cup title against their cross-town foes, the Minnesota Twins, at JetBlue Park February 27, March 22, and 26. A total of five matchups will take place between the Lee County rivals with the Red Sox heading to Hammond Stadium at Lee County Sports Complex March 3 and March 11.

The Red Sox will play six games against the Atlanta Braves, the most of any opponent. The final two exhibition matchups of the season will be against the Braves, with the Red Sox set to travel to CoolToday Park on Monday, March 27, and host the Braves at JetBlue Park the following day, Tuesday, March 28, to close out the Spring Training season.

The 2023 season is the Red Sox' 12th at JetBlue Park at Fenway South. Game times and ticket sale details for the 2023 Spring Training season will be finalized and announced at a later date. All dates

On Thursday September 1, 2022 at approximately 9 a.m. Officers Mitchell Walsh and Jonathan Souza
responded to the 600 block of Second St. in response to reports of a male causing a disturbance.

Upon arrival, they encountered 21 year old Mustafa Kasin of Grafton, MA who indicated that his cellular
telephone had been taken by a female acquaintance of his. Officers were able to locate his cellular telephone
with the assistance of the female.

While Officers were investigating the location of the cellular device, Kasin disappeared for a brief period
before reappearing. Upon doing so, Officers observed that Kasin’s pockets now appeared to be full, he had
his hands in his pockets, and his demeanor had shifted.

 Officer’s ordered him to remove his hands from his
pockets, which he refused to do. Fearing that Kasin may be in possession of a weapon they removed his
hands from his pockets and conducted a pat frisk for weapons.

 At this time Officer Souza discovered that
Kasin had secreted a firearm in his right thigh area. The firearm, a loaded 9mm Polymer 80 lower with
Glock upper was removed from Kasin’s possession without incident.

Mustafa Kasin was placed under arrest and charged with carrying a loaded firearm in public without an
LTC, possession of a large capacity firearm, and possession of ammunition without an FID Card. An
investigation is ongoing to determine the status of the pistol.
 

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today announced 37 additional cases of monkeypox within the past seven days, bringing the total number of monkeypox cases in the Commonwealth to 317 residents since the state’s first case was announced May 18.

DPH provides public updates on monkeypox in Massachusetts on a weekly basis each Thursday. 

The 37 cases announced today had their diagnoses between August 25 and August 31. 

BOSTON, MA—The Boston Red Sox today announced the following roster moves:

Recalled catcher Connor Wong from Triple-A Worcester.

Selected right-handed pitcher Eduard Bazardo from Worcester.

Chief Baseball Officer Chaim Bloom made the announcement.

Wong, 26, has played five games for Boston across three stints this season, appearing in three games at catcher and two at second base.

The right-handed hitter has batted .286 (6-for-21) with three runs scored, one double, one triple, and two RBI in 11 games for the Red Sox since making his Major League debut last season. Wong has hit .288 (93-for-323) with an .838 OPS, 20 doubles, 15 home runs, and 44 RBI in 81 games for Worcester this season while making 53 starts at catcher. He is batting .368 (25-for-68) with a 1.249 OPS, nine home runs, and 22 RBI in his last 16 games for the WooSox.

Bazardo, 27, made his Major League debut last season with the Red Sox and allowed one hit in 3.0 scoreless innings across two relief appearances. The right-hander has a 3.45 ERA (22 ER/57.1 IP) in 37 appearances (four starts) for Worcester this season. Bazardo has thrown more than 1.0 inning in 20 of his outings, including eight of his last 10.

Massachusetts Congressman Jake Auchincloss’s chief of staff is leaving his office amid an ongoing feud with Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene. According to CBS 12 in Providence, an Auchincloss spokesperson confirmed that Tim Hysom is stepping down effective Friday and will be joining a different congressional office. Hysom has served as the Newton Democrat’s top aide since he succeeded Joe Kennedy III last year. No interim replacement for Hysom was named. Hysom made headlines in June when Greene  revealed Capitol Police had issued an arrest warrant for him after he was repeatedly caught on surveillance camera putting stickers on one of her posters.

According to NBC 10 in Providence, city officials in Taunton want to extend the school zone and make it safer for students to travel to and from class.Last March, public safety officer for Taunton Arsenio Chaves set up radar along Williams Street in Taunton to see how fast drivers were going in the school zone. He’s now working with city councilors to improve signage in the area and hopefully make motorists think twice before speeding through. More than 3,000 students in Taunton go to school within a two mile radius of their homes, many of them walking, including elementary, middle and high school students.

Seekonk Fire Chief Sandra Lowery was put on paid administrative leave on August 4, according NBC 10 in Providence. In the letter received on Wednesday, the town confirmed Lowery has been on paid administrative leave since Aug. 4 but redacted the reasoning behind the leave. Town Administrator Shawn Cadime says the town does not comment on personnel issues. This comes after Lowery was promoted to the position in October and is Seekonk's first female fire chief. Lowery also declined to comment.

Her contract started to continue through October 2024.