FRIDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2022

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (3-4)
OUT
C David Andrews - Concussion (DNP)
DL Christian Barmore - Knee (DNP)

DOUBTFUL
No Players Listed.

QUESTIONABLE
WR Nelson Agholor - Hamstring (LP)
S Kyle Dugger - Ankle (LP)
LB Anfernee Jennings - Calf (LP)
CB Jonathan Jones - Ankle (LP)
S Adrian Phillips - Shoulder (LP)
LB Josh Uche - Hamstring (LP)
T Isaiah Wynn - Shoulder (LP)

REMOVED FROM LIST
WR Kendrick Bourne - Toe (FP)
G Mike Onwenu - Ankle (FP)

NEW BEDFORD, Mass. – A 6,600-square-foot unit that will treat critically ill newborns and their mothers has received approval for use from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and is readying to receive patients at St. Luke’s Hospital, Southcoast Health officials announced this week.

The new unit includes fully integrated couplet accommodations designed and constructed to coordinate acute care for both infant and mother, among the first such models in the Commonwealth.
During a ribbon-cutting ceremony for clinical and operational staff, along with key community supporters, attendees toured the new Special Care Nursery. An addition to the recently renovated Stoico/FIRSTFED Women and Children’s Pavilion at St. Luke’s, it includes eight private bassinet rooms, featuring couplet care quarters, equipped with airborne isolation capability in cases of transmissible viruses. 

In addition, multiple prep, stabilization/triage, visitor, and education spaces have been built out to create a unified and intuitive facility, making the patient journey even safer and more comprehensive. 
With a new state-of-the-art infant security system installed, as well as central monitoring enabling staff to continuously track patient vital signs from three different nursing stations, Southcoast Health President & CEO Dr. Ray Kruger said the Special Care Nursery will bring immediate benefits to both patients and their care teams. 

“After announcing this high-priority project earlier this year, we are proud to open it for our community in the coming weeks,” Kruger said. 

“This is a very big day for some of our very little patients, and it marks a major step forward in the already exceptional care that Southcoast’s dedicated nurses, physicians, and staff provide with skill and compassion.”

Neonatologist Dr. Jessica Slusarski is one of those providers, and said that she and the Special Care Nursery team are “incredibly proud of the level of care we are able to bring to babies and families” of southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island. 

“The Special Care Nursery is first and foremost a place where newborns receive additional medical care after delivery in preparation for going home. In our nursery, we care for babies with a myriad of conditions, most commonly prematurity, respiratory disease, infection, jaundice, hypoglycemia, heart disease, and neonatal opioid withdrawal,” Slusarski said.

“The goal of couplet care is the provision of uninterrupted care of both mother and baby together from birth to discharge. We will be able to initiate care of eligible infants in the labor room with their mother, then continue the maternal postpartum care here in the Special Care Nursery in the same room as her baby. This is such an exciting advance in care for our patients, and it is very special to be one of the first hospitals in the state offering this option,” she said, adding:

“We know that our patients’ time with us is relatively brief, and transitioning a newborn’s care from hospital to home starts at admission. We work hard to incorporate our parents and families into all aspects of patient care, from encouraging early skin-to-skin and kangaroo care to feeding to diaper changes and bathing. The Special Care Nursery environment is a crucial determinant of parental presence. We want families to feel welcome, comfortable, and empowered during their time here.”

The Special Care Nursery also includes a tribute to longtime nurse Sharon Souza, according to St. Luke’s Women and Children’s Pavilion Executive Director Kim Pina, RN.

“Sharon was an RN in the Level II nursery for 42 years. She’s now a volunteer, and her commitment is an inspiration to us all,” Pina said. 

“Sharon goes above and beyond for every patient, and never wants to be recognized for it. She has gifted a book to every baby’s family before they leave the hospital, encouraging parents to read to their children to help with development. I am thrilled to share that our new Special Care Nursery will include ‘Sharon’s Library,’ which will ensure that each family will be gifted a book, represented by the book cover art displayed in each bassinet room. This program, named in honor of Sharon, is made possible with books donated by Jill Fearons’ Friends of Jack Foundation.”

Along with children’s book cover art, the Special Care Nursery spaces will be decorated in renderings of animals at the Buttonwood Park Zoo.

“Every choice we have made in the design and construction of this unit was made with our patients and community in mind,” Southcoast Health Vice President of Support Services Philip Oliveira said. 

“So many neighbors, supporters, and partners have come together to make it happen, and I would like to thank everyone who offered up their time and talent. Our special thanks also to Southcoast’s Derek Vieira, Robin Hodkinson, and the entire project team, as well as construction manager Consigli Construction and architects Lavallee Brensinger.”

Annual award highlights women business leaders who are making a significant impact on the state’s economy

Boston (October 28, 2022) -  The Women’s Edge (formerly The Commonwealth Institute),  together with its partner The Boston Globe, today announced People Incorporated was a part of the 22nd annual Top 100 Women-Led Businesses in Massachusetts list, recognizing the honorees during a celebratory breakfast event.

These 100 organizations generated nearly $72 billion in total revenue in 2021, demonstrating that women are key drivers of the state’s economy.

“I’m proud to be in great company on this list but even prouder to represent an organization in the SouthCoast that brings so many services and supports to people in our communities,” said Megan Stirk, President & CEO of People Incorporated.

“The organizations on this year’s diverse list are driving innovation across the country, from increased manufacturing capacity to breakthroughs in clinical care and therapeutics” said The Women’s Edge Chief Executive Officer Elizabeth L. Hailer. “We are honored to celebrate the Top 100 women leaders and hope it inspires others to drive for success here in our region and beyond.”

This is the 22nd year that The Women’s Edge – a Boston-based nonprofit organization devoted to advancing women in leadership positions — created the list through a nomination process and reviewed both for-profit and not-for-profit organizations, and the 10th year that the list was created in collaboration with The Boston Globe

. In addition to revenue or operating budget, factors considered in the evaluation included workplace and management diversity, board makeup, and innovative projects. The full list will be published in the Globe Magazine’s Women & Power issue at Globe.com/magazine on October 28 and in print on October 30.

This story appears via State House News Service.com 

Colin A. Young10/28/22 2:41 PM

OCT. 28, 2022.....A major offshore wind project in the Massachusetts pipeline "is no longer viable and would not be able to move forward" under the terms of contracts filed in May and now both developers behind the state's next two offshore wind projects are asking state regulators to pause review of the contracts for one month amid price increases, supply shortages and interest rate hikes.

Utility executives working with assistance from the Baker administration last year chose Avangrid's roughly 1,200-megawatt Commonwealth Wind project and a 400 MW project from Mayflower Wind in the third round of offshore wind procurement to continue the state's pursuit of establishing cleaner offshore wind power. Contracts, or power purchase agreements (PPAs), for the projects were filed with the Department of Public Utilities in May.

But last week, Commonwealth Wind filed a motion for a one-month delay in DPU's review, telling the state that their project can no longer move forward as planned. A one-month freeze, the developer said, "would give the parties an opportunity to evaluate the current situation facing the Project and potentially agree upon changes to the PPAs, along with other measures, that could allow the Project to return to viability."

"As has been publicly reported in recent weeks, global commodity price increases, in part due to ongoing war in Ukraine, sharp and sudden increases in interest rates, prolonged supply chain constraints, and persistent inflation have significantly increased the expected cost of constructing the Project. As a result, the Project is no longer viable and would not be able to move forward absent amendments to the PPAs," attorneys for Commonwealth Wind wrote in their motion.

The developer's brief highlights "cost saving measures, tax incentives under the newly enacted Inflation Reduction Act, an increase in the PPA prices, and improvements to Project efficiencies" as the possible approaches to restoring their project to viability. The developer also said that it "remains fully committed to the Project and to delivering cost-effective renewable energy from the Project to the residents and businesses of Massachusetts in a manner that advances the purposes of [the state's clean energy law] and the Commonwealth's energy and climate policies."

The Boston Globe reported last month that a top Avangrid executive told investors that the company expected Commonwealth Wind and Park City Wind (a project intended to provide power to Connecticut) to each be delayed by a year as they sought contract revisions. CEO Pedro Azagra said Commonwealth Wind is now expected to go live in 2028, the Globe reported.

Mayflower Wind, the other developer tapped last year to help Massachusetts plug into offshore wind power, on Thursday told DPU that it supports the request from Commonwealth Wind but did not specifically say that its project is at risk.

"A one month suspension would enable the parties to consider potential approaches to help ensure these offshore wind projects are economic and financeable under the PPAs. That assurance is especially important in this case, because the Projects are among the few first-mover offshore wind projects in the region. As such, they are critically important Projects to the advancement of the Commonwealth's public policy requirements," Mayflower Wind wrote in its response to Commonwealth Wind's filing.

Both developers said they want to use the one-month pause to further explore how the federal Inflation Reduction Act, which includes a slew of energy tax credits, could factor into their project finances.

Mayflower Wind said that the IRA "may provide tax incentives to the Projects that could provide savings for Massachusetts customers" and that the company "agrees that the PPA parties should examine the economics and financeability of the respective Projects and any opportunities to incorporate federal tax or other benefits into the analysis."

Commonwealth Wind said that "the IRA benefits to the Project are not fully known at this time and not anticipated to make the Project economic absent other changes to the PPAs," but told DPU that it "believes there may be potential opportunities to share benefits associated with the IRA with ratepayers and would be willing to explore those opportunities with stakeholders."

It is unclear when a DPU decision will come, but the agency had previously set a Tuesday deadline for briefs related to the latest offshore wind contract.

Both developers are already connected to roughly 800 MW offshore wind projects for Massachusetts. Vineyard Wind I, projected as the first utility-scale offshore wind farm in the nation, is in the early stages of construction and is due to come online by the end of 2023. Avangrid Renewables owns half of that project. Mayflower Wind's initial 804 MW project is expected to be up and running in 2025.
 

merica 
October 28, 2022, 11:26 AM

Tom Brady and Gisele Bündchen have divorced after 13 years of marriage.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback and the Brazilian supermodel, who married in 2009, confirmed their split on social media.

In both their posts, Brady and Bündchen said they had "gratitude" for their time together and that the decision had been made "amicably."

"We are blessed with beautiful and wonderful children who will continue to be the center of our world in every way," Brady wrote. "We will continue to work together as parents to always ensure they receive the love and attention they deserve."

Bündchen echoed that sentiment, writing, "My priority has always been and will continue to be our children whom I love with all my heart. We will continue co-parenting to give them the love, care and attention they greatly deserve."

Brady called the situation "painful and difficult," and said he and Bündchen "only wish the best for each other as we pursue whatever new chapters in our lives that are yet to be written."

"The decision to end a marriage is never easy but we have grown apart and while it is, of course, difficult to go through something like this, I feel blessed for the time we had together and only wish the best for Tom always," Bündchen said.

Both Brady and Bündchen also asked for privacy.

The news comes after much speculation on the status of their relationship. Tabloid reports have hinted at alleged contention between the two due to Brady's decision to return to football after a brief 40-day retirement earlier this year. Brady has struggled this season and the Buccaneers have stumbled to a 3-5 record and current three-game losing streak.

Bündchen shared her perspective on Brady's return to the game in an interview with Elle, published in September.

"Obviously, I have my concerns -- this is a very violent sport, and I have my children and I would like him to be more present," she told Elle. "I have definitely had those conversations with him over and over again. But ultimately, I feel that everybody has to make a decision that works for [them]. He needs to follow his joy, too."

She also hit back at what she felt was a false media narrative regarding her desire for him to leave football. "I think this is the system we've been living in," she told the outlet. "That's what society has accepted and what society hasn't accepted."

The supermodel tweeted her support for Brady before his game on Sept. 11, writing "Let's go @TomBrady ! Let's go Bucs ! ???"

The couple shared several loving posts for one another throughout 2022. They also celebrated their 13th wedding anniversary in February, with Brady describing Bündchen in a post as the "best mother and wife and supporter in the world."

Brady and Bündchen share two children together, 12-year-old Benjamin and 9-year-old Vivian. Brady also has a 15-year-old son, Jack, from his previous relationship with Bridget Moynahan.

Police are investigating the report of a suspicious item after the Massachusetts State Police Bomb Squad was called to a Dunkin’ in Taunton. According to ABC 6 in Providence, a call came in to Taunton police and fire just before 1 p.m from an employee at the Dunkin’ on Broadway when the building was evacuated and the bomb squad was called in based on the appearance of the item.

The bomb squad determined that the device was not explosive and there was no danger.

After nine days of Searching, 16-year-old Colleen Weaver has been found safe in New York City. According to CBS 12 in Providence, Weaver was located around 11 p.m. yesterday with the assistance of the New York Police Department and the FBI. She was first reported missing on Oct. 18, and was believed to be in danger. Her discovery came hours after a prayer vigil was held in Raynham, where dozens in the community came together to support the search efforts. Police have not released any additional information.

 Every Halloween, monsters, zombies, and ghouls fill the streets across the United States to celebrate. With all those excited youngsters walking (and running) around, the trick-or-treaters and motorists each play an important role in making it a safe night.

            “On Halloween, motorists need to be especially vigilant between the hours of 4 pm and midnight, when pedestrians are the most vulnerable,” said Mary Maguire, Vice President of Public Affairs at AAA Northeast. “Slowing down, and watching for trick-or-treaters who may cross between cars or mid-block may save a life.”

            To help make the roadways safer this Halloween, AAA Northeast offers motorists a few easy tips:
•    Avoid Neighborhood Shortcuts. If possible, avoid cutting through residential streets where trick-or-treaters are likely to be present.
•    Watch for children in the street. Watch for children walking on streets, medians and curbs. Excited trick-or-treaters, often in dark costumes, may not pay attention to traffic and cross mid-block or between parked cars.
•    Slow down. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, a pedestrian is more than twice as likely to be killed if hit by a car traveling 35 mph compared to 25 mph. What seems like a small difference – just 10 mph - can be the difference between life and death.
•    Drive sober. Alcohol-impaired drivers make up about one-third of all motor vehicle deaths resulting in an average of one death every 45 minutes. Always designate a sober driver.

AAA also has tips for parents and children:
•    Trick-or-treat together. AAA recommends that parents accompany youngsters at least until the age of 12.
•    Make a plan. Review trick-or-treating safety precautions and plan the route ahead of time. Remind children never to cross the street mid-block or between parked cars.

•    Check costumes. Choose disguises that don’t obstruct vision and where possible use face paint instead of masks. Check and adjust the length of costumes to avoid tripping and add reflective material or tape to keep kids visible. Carry a flashlight.

•    Buckle up. If driving trick-or-treaters between neighborhoods, always use appropriate car seats and have children exit and enter on the passenger side of the vehicle.
 

BOSTON – A Texas man was indicted by a federal grand jury today for allegedly staging a hoax explosion at Northeastern University in Boston and providing law enforcement with materially false and misleading information about the incident.

Jason Duhaime, 45, formerly of San Antonio, was indicted on one count of intentionally conveying false and misleading information related to an explosive and two counts of making materially false statements to a federal law enforcement agent. Duhaime was arrested and charged by criminal complaint on Oct. 4, 2022.

According to the indictment returned today, Duhaime, who at the time was employed as the New Technology Manager and Director of the Immersive Media Lab (the “Lab”) at Northeastern University, placed a 911 call at approximately 7 p.m. on Sept. 13, 2022, to report that he was injured by “sharp” objects expelled from a plastic case he opened inside the Lab that evening. Specifically, it is alleged that Duhaime told the 911 operator that upon opening one of two “Pelican” cases he had collected from an on-campus mail area earlier that day, “very sharp” objects flew out and under his shirt sleeves, causing injuries to his arms. Duhaime also allegedly reported that the case contained an anonymous “violent note” directed at the Lab.

Duhaime’s 911 call and concern about the second unopened “Pelican” case triggered a significant law enforcement response that included, among other things, the assistance of two law enforcement bomb squads and the evacuation of a large portion of Northeastern’s Boston campus. Numerous campus-wide alerts were also issued by the Northeastern University Police Department, one of which described an “explosion” on campus.

According to court documents, responding local and federal law enforcement officers observed that the case described by Duhaime to the 911 operator was empty and undamaged. Neither the case nor the letter that Duhaime said was inside the case showed any indication of having been exposed to a forceful or explosive discharge of any type or magnitude. Additionally, the storage closet appeared normal and bomb technicians did not observe any small objects or suspicious debris on the floor or elsewhere.

During subsequent interviews with law enforcement, Duhaime allegedly provided statements about the incident that were consistent with his report to the 911 operator. He allegedly expressly denied fabricating his story about the case, the letter and his injuries.

Forensic analysis of one of the computers seized during a Sept. 14, 2022 search of Duhaime’s office at Northeastern allegedly revealed a word-for-word electronic copy of the letter stored in a backup folder. According to court documents, the metadata associated with this file reflected a “Created Date/Time” of Sept. 13, 2022, at 2:57 p.m. and a “Last Printed Date/Time” of Sept. 13, 2022, at 4:02 p.m.

The charges of intentionally conveying false and misleading information related to an explosive and making materially false statements to a federal law enforcement agent each provide for a sentence of up to five years in prison, up to 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.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2022

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (3-4)

DID NOT PARTICIPATE

C David Andrews - Concussion
DL Christian Barmore - Knee
S Kyle Dugger - Ankle

LIMITED PARTICIPATION
WR Nelson Agholor - Hamstring
WR Kendrick Bourne - Toe
LB Anfernee Jennings - Calf
CB Jonathan Jones - Ankle
G Mike Onwenu - Ankle
S Adrian Phillips - Shoulder
LB Josh Uche - Hamstring
T Isaiah Wynn - Shoulder

According to ABC 6 in Providence, Attleboro mayor and Democratic nominee for Bristol County sheriff, Paul Heroux, has confirmed he has come down with COVID-19. Heroux told ABC 6 News that he has tested positive for the virus Monday and has had two subsequent positive tests. The mayor said the city council president is serving as the acting mayor, but he did talk with several department heads over the phone yesterday. Heroux said a forum Thursday and a debate Friday against incumbent Tom Hodgson will now take place virtually over Zoom.

Heroux said he hopes to be back working in-person by Monday.

Fall River    Narrows Center for the Arts, Inc.    Collaborative Workspace Program    $50,000    The award funds will be used towards a new HVAC system, refurbishing of the mill floors, lighting, electrical, and a new utility sink    

Fall River    Shane Landing, LLC    Underutilized Properties Program    $335,000    Funds will be used to address the structural windows, doors, entrances and masonry of this historic building, which is being converted to a shared workspace and public caf?.

Shane Landing, LLC    Collaborative Workspace Program    $15,000    The award funds will support a feasibility study for the property for the creation of a fiber arts makerspace within the premises. area.

Fall River    Southcoast Open Air Market    Collaborative Workspace Program    $15,000    The award funds will be used to conduct a feasibility study for the makerspace.

Fall River    Groundwork Creative Space LLC    Collaborative Workspace Program    $45,000    The award funds will support the purchase and installation of furniture and equipment necessary to operate at the new co-working space.

    City of Fall River    MassWorks Infrastructure Program    $2,000,000    This grant will help fund the Route 79 ? Davol Street Corridor Improvements project. Upgrades will include construction of a stormwater conveyance system; underground storage chambers; landscaping; and ornamental highway lighting.

Fall River    Bristol County Chamber Foundation    Urban Agenda Grant Program    $100,000    This grant will be used to secure critical support staff to maintain and grow existing functions for Viva Fall River (VFR).

Fall River    Sanford Spinning Mills LLC    Underutilized Properties Program    $900,000    Funds will be used for the predevelopment phase of this project including gutting and cleaning of buildings and architectural and engineering for a building permit.

According to CBS 12 in Providence, detectives made a “historic” drug bust last week following a months-long investigation into an extensive drug trafficking operation in New Bedford. Detectives searched two residences connected to 30 year old Amado Delgado Mendez, and 38 year old Vinicio Marrero Arias, last Friday in connection with the investigation. Police also searched several storage containers and vehicles, which investigators believe the suspects used to store and transport illicit drugs. The search resulted in detectives uncovering 830 grams of fentanyl, 28 grams of cocaine and nearly $1.3 million in cash, which is believed to be “the largest seizure of illicit money associated with narcotics in the department’s history.”

Arias was taken into custody and charged with trafficking in excess of 200 grams of fentanyl and trafficking in excess of 18 grams of cocaine. Mendez remains at large, and is wanted on charges stemming from the investigation.

Anyone with information on Mendez’s whereabouts is asked to call the New Bedford Police Department

First Lady of the United States Doctor Jill Biden will be in Rhode Island this afternoon. According to CBS 12 in Providence, she will be in the Ocean State to campaign for incumbent Governor Dan McKee as well as Seth Magaziner in his run for Congress. Dr. Biden is scheduled to arrive at Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport at 3 p.m. and head to Rhode Island College with McKee and his wife to meet with undergraduate students participating in a  networking event aimed at helping undergraduate students find a pathway into the education field and to deliver remarks to students, faculty and campus administrators.

She is then set to speak at a political event for Gov. McKee and the Rhode Island Democratic Party as well as making an appearance at a campaign event for Magaziner.

Inspiring Students And Building School Culture Through Arts and Collaboration
New York City artist John Westbay will be visiting two Fall River schools next week to collaborate with students on
murals and special artworks to inspire tomorrow’s artists and promote positive school culture.

“I have one goal—to always keep the inner-doodling child alive,” said Westbay,
who will be conducting art workshops and mural paintings throughout the week
of October 24, 2022, at Henry Lord Community School and Talbot Middle
School.

As a child, Westbay loved art, but felt it was not encouraged as a profession.
Still, he kept his dream alive and taught himself, moving from a street tagger to
a celebrated artist whose works have been exhibited at galleries across the
United States, Europe, and the Middle East. He has also created lines of
streetwear and other gear.

“Just as John has dreamed of being an artist, there are many students in
Fall River who have similar goals. He is living proof that if you ‘Dream
it, see it,’ you can ‘Be it,’” said Jacqueline Francisco, director of Fall
River Public School’s Fine and Performing Arts.

Talbot Middle School’s mural will be on the outside of the building
while the Henry Lord Community School’s artwork will be showcased
on the inside.

The new murals will be the latest in a line of mural projects at Fall River schools.
“Mural work impacts our schools in creating a positive identity,” Francisco said. “We are extremely excited to see
students engage with the artist as they discuss symbols and icons that represent their school, community, and city,
and actually have input on the final work.”

Westbay is making this visit to Fall River in partnership with Coaching4Change, a nonprofit organization that
provides college-age mentors to supplement school programs in under-resourced cities such as Fall River, New
Bedford, Attleboro, Taunton, Brockton, and Providence.
“C4C is thrilled to be involved in this project with John Westbay and the Fall River Public Schools, helping young
people see how they can turn their passions into careers and leave a lasting impression of love within their school
culture,” said Marquis Taylor, co-founder and CEO of Coaching 4 Change.
Media Advisory: John Westbay will be at Talbot Middle School on October 24 and 25 and at Henry Lord
Community School on October 27 and 28. If you would like to cover these events or interview Westbay, please
contact Pete Berman at pete@c4cinc.org or (978) 460-0236.

Despite a losing effort verus the Bears on Monday NIght Football, The Patriots have opened as a 1.5 road favorite versus the New York Jets Sunday at MetLife Stadium, according to Draft Kings Sportsbook.

Still to be determined is who will start at Quarterback for the Patriots this Sunday as Bill Bellichick noted after the MNF loss that both Baliey Zappe and Mac Jones were going to play.

Jones started and was in for three series in the first quarter. 

BOSTON, MA — October 25, 2022 — Local unemployment rates increased in two labor market areas, decreased in twenty-one areas and remained unchanged in one area in the state during the month of September compared to August, the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development reported. 
 
Compared to September 2021, the rates were down in twenty-four labor market areas. 
 
Of the fifteen areas for which estimates are published, six NECTA areas gained jobs compared to the previous month. The largest percentage increases occurred in the Springfield MA-CT (+1.2%), Lowell-Billerica-Chelmsford MA-NH (+0.9%), and Leominster-Gardner (+0.8%) areas. 
 
From September 2021 to September 2022, fourteen areas gained jobs with the largest percentage increases seen in the Boston-Cambridge-Newton (+5.3%), Lowell-Billerica-Chelmsford MA-NH (+5.2%), and Framingham (+4.1%) areas. 
 
The statewide seasonally adjusted preliminary jobs estimate showed an increase of 13,800 jobs in September, and an over-the-year gain of 151,700 jobs. 
 
In order to compare the statewide rate to local unemployment rates, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates the statewide unadjusted unemployment rate for September 2022 was 3.1 percent, down four-tenths of a percentage point from the revised August estimate and two-tenths of a percentage point below the nation’s unadjusted unemployment rate of 3.3 percent. 
 
Last week, the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development reported the statewide seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in the month of September 2022 was 3.4 percent, down two-tenths of a percentage point from the revised August 2022 estimate of 3.6 percent. The U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics reported the nation’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for September 2022 was 3.5 percent. 
 
The unadjusted unemployment rates and job estimates for the labor market areas reflect seasonal fluctuations and therefore may show different levels and trends than the statewide seasonally adjusted estimates. 
 
The estimates for labor force, unemployment rates, and jobs for Massachusetts are based on different statistical methodology specified by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. 
 
 

According to ABC 6 in Providence, The ACLU of Rhode Island has filed a lawsuit over a massive data breach at the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority last year. The data breach at the state agency that operates Rhode Island’s public bus service compromised the personal information, including Social Security numbers and Medicare identification numbers, of around 22,000 people. Nearly 5,000 were RIPTA employees and some of the additional 17,000 who were employees of other state agencies.

According to NBC 10 in Providence, a Warwick fire captain who came to the aid of a paddle boarder in distress was honored by the city on Monday. Captain Andrew Sisson received a citation from the city for helping save a man's life in Tiverton while off-duty. and surfing when he became aware of the distressed person. Sisson got the individual to shore and then with the assistance of another nurse, performed CPR on the person until rescue crews arrived on scene, according to the city. The man Sisson assisted has since been released from the hospital. 

Sisson also credited the Little Compton firefighters who arrived in minutes and said knowing CPR is key to saving lives in the field.

Swansea Town Meeting agreed Monday Night to spend up to $19 million on a refurbished and expanded public library. 

There will still be attempts to secure state grant dollars to help lower the overall cost. 

Town Meeting also agreed to spend $500,000 on improved public school security, and a six figure sum on new police and fire department radios. 

The New England Patriots fail to cover a 7.5 spread in Gillette Stadium and lose on Monday NIght Football to the Chicago Bears, 33-14. 

Starting Quarterback Mack Jones was pulled from the game after 3 series in his return from a high ankle sprain, and replaced by Bailey Zappe. 

Jones and Zappe each threw a pair of interceptions, although Zappe led the New England Offense to a pair of touchdowns. 

Bill Bellichick told reporters after the game that the plan was to play both quarterbacks. 

The Bears got off to a 10-0 first quarter lead and never surrendered the lead. 

The Patriots are now 3-4 and will prepare for the Jets at Met Life on Sunday on 95.9 and 1480 WSAR on the Patriots Radio Network. 

This is a tweet from MA Fourth District Congressman Jake Auchincloss regarding a letter from Progressive Democrats and obtained by the Washington Post asking the Biden Administration to create a diplomatic path to a potential cease fire in the war between Russia and Ukraine. 

''This letter is an olive branch to a war criminal who’s losing his war. 

Ukraine is on the march. Congress should be standing firmly behind 
@JoeBidens
 effective strategy, including tighter - not weaker! - sanctions.''

The Washington Post
@washingtonpost

In a letter led by Rep. Pramila Jayapal, the 30 Democrats call on Biden to pair the unprecedented economic and military support the U.S. is providing Ukraine with a “diplomatic push, redoubling efforts to seek a realistic framework for a ceasefire.” https://wapo.st/3D5uwRt
Show this thread

The search continues for a 16-year-old Raynham girl who was reported missing earlier this week. According To CBS 12 in Providence, Colleen Weaver was last seen around 1 a-m. Tuesday near her home at Orchard and King streets. Investigators believe Colleen left on her own accord, though it’s still unclear why. Weaver has red-pink hair, stands five feet tall and may be wearing glasses but investigators aren’t sure what she was wearing when she left.

Anyone who knows of her whereabouts or has any information regarding her disappearance is urged to contact the Raynham Police Department.

According To ABC 6 in Providence, a Taunton man has been charged in an apparent school break-in. On September 18, Rehoboth Police responded to Palmer River Elementary School for the report of a burglar alarm activation when they discovered an exterior window air conditioner to have been tampered with and other indications there had been a break-in to the building. No immediate suspects or threats were discovered but during the course of the investigation, a suspect was identified as 35-year old Jacob Hunt. Hunt was found and arrested on October 21 and faces breaking and entering and destruction of property charges.

Hunt will be arraigned on October 24.

BRIDGEWATER – October 21, 2022 – UMass Law and Bridgewater State University have announced the signing of an agreement for a 3+3 joint degree program that will give Bridgewater students the opportunity to earn their undergraduate degree and a law degree in six years.

In this accelerated degree program, students earn credits for their first year of law school during their final year of college, saving a year of tuition and associated expenses on the traditional seven-year pathway to a Juris Doctorate.

"Imagine being able to earn your bachelor's degree and complete your law degree in six years," said BSU President Frederick W. Clark Jr., who went on to earn his law degree after graduating from BSU in 1983. "In addition to the associated savings of an entire year of tuition and fees, our students will have the support of faculty advisors at BSU and meet with UMass Law faculty. Also, because these students are setting their career goals early, they have additional time to determine the career paths they can follow with their Juris Doctorate."

"As a Massachusetts public university with a similarly strong public service mission, Bridgewater State is a natural partner for UMass Law," said Eric Mitnick, Dean of UMass Law. "This 3+3 program will enable students to complete their undergraduate and legal education with less debt, providing graduates greater freedom to pursue public service within our communities and expanding access to justice throughout Southeastern Massachusetts."  

BSU is the fifteenth institution to collaborate on a 3+3 program with UMass Law. Other partners include Anna Maria College, Assumption University, Fitchburg State University, Framingham State University, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, Johnson & Wales University, Regis College, Salem State University, Springfield College, UMass Boston, UMass Dartmouth, UMass Lowell, Westfield State University, and Worcester State University. Enrollment at UMass Law, the Commonwealth's only public law school, has increased for six consecutive years, more than doubling since the law school received full ABA approval in 2016.

In 2018, UMass Law and Bridgewater State established a joint Law/Master of Social Work program that allows students to earn both degrees in four years rather than five. The program integrated the two disciplines through field experience, and students collaborate to offer legal and social services across Southeastern Massachusetts.

The two institutions also partner on accelerated Master of Science programs in Physics and Electrical Engineering programs to create advanced STEM learning and research experience for students. Undergraduate students in the Physics, Photonics and Optical Engineering program in the Bartlett College of Science & Mathematics at BSU seamlessly earn a master's degree in Physics or Electrical Engineering in the College of Engineering at UMass Dartmouth.

##

BROCKTON – Two men are under arrest, charged in connection with the 2021 murder of a Brockton man, Plymouth County District Attorney Timothy J. Cruz has announced. 

    On September 9, 2021 at approximately 4:16 p.m., Brockton Police responded to the area of 77 Highland Terrace for a report of multiple shots fired. Upon arrival, police and emergency medical personnel located a male victim suffering from a gunshot wound to the head area. The victim was transported to Good Samaritan Hospital before he was transferred to Boston Medical Center. He was pronounced deceased the following day, and was identified as Jauwon Ambers, 20.

    Brockton Police contacted the Massachusetts State Police Detective Unit assigned to the Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office and an investigation commenced. As a result of the lengthy investigation, police developed information that identified two suspects in the murder of Ambers.

    On Friday, Massachusetts State Police and Brockton Police sought and obtained arrest warrants for Leonardo Monteiro, 22A, and Ivanilson Brandao, 23. Both were taken into custody yesterday, Monteiro in Brockton, and Brandao in Stoughton.

    They are both scheduled to be arraigned on a Murder charge tomorrow in Brockton District Court. 

The New England Patriots (3-3) and the Chicago Bears (2-4) announce the following player injuries and practice participation.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2022

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (3-3)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE
No Players Listed

LIMITED PARTICIPATION
WR Nelson Agholor - Hamstring
DL Christian Barmore - Knee
WR Kendrick Bourne - Toe
DL Lawrence Guy - Shoulder
CB Jonathan Jones - Ankle
QB Mac Jones - Ankle
CB Jalen Mills - Illness
G Mike Onwenu - Ankle
LB Josh Uche, Hamstring
T Isaiah Wynn - Shoulder

FULL PARTICIPATION
RB Damien Harris - Hamstring
TE Jonnu Smith - Ankle

CHICAGO BEARS (2-4)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE
No Players Listed.

LIMITED PARTICIPATION
No Players Listed.

FULL PARTICIPATION
No Players Listed.

(Tuesday, October 11, 2022) State Representative Carole Fiola, State Representative Paul Schmid, State Representative Alan Silvia, and State Senator Michael Rodrigues announce a Community Recycling Event being held on Saturday, October 29th from 10am to 1pm at Bristol Community College under the solar panel lot.

In honor of Energy Efficiency Month in October, the recycling drive is being hosted in conjunction with Mass Save® Sponsors National Grid and Eversource to provide residents the opportunity to turn in dehumidifiers for a rebate and the opportunity to recycle electronics, clothing and furniture. 

The drive will be open to residents of Fall River, Freetown and Westport. Residents in these municipalities who are customers of National Grid or Eversource will receive a postcard in the mail in the coming weeks with the details of the drive. Details include:

•    Dehumidifiers can be turned in for a $30 Mass Save gift card and receive a $30 rebate if you decide to purchase a new, energy-efficient dehumidifier.

•    Furniture, electronics, and clothing must be clean and reusable.
•    There is a $15 fee per car for electronics, tires, AC, and furniture recycling. Unless noted, there is no charge for remaining listed items. 
•    Credit cards, cash and checks accepted.
•    There will be additional fees for the following items:
o    Mattresses ($35) 
o    Box Springs ($35) 
o    TVs ($20) 
o    Monitors ($20)
o    Tires (passenger & light truck) ($10/ea) 
o    Window ACs ($5)
 

New Bedford, Massachusetts – The New Bedford Health Department and the Health Equity Compact (HEC) will be hosting the Color of Care – Southeastern MA Health Equity Forum to discuss solutions to health disparities in our region.  The event will take place on Tuesday, November 1st, 2022, at the New Bedford Whaling Museum at 18 Johnny Cake Hill, New Bedford, MA.

Event Details

•    4:00pm: Screening of Oprah Winfrey’s documentary - Color of Care
•    5:30pm: Dinner and a special recognition of Dr. Patricia Andrade for her years of service with the New Bedford Board of Health and advocacy of health equity within the greater New Bedford community.
•    6:30pm: HEC presentation and regional listening session for the Health Care and Health Equity Bill, sponsored by the Health Equity Compact and the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers 

The documentary will be offered in English with Spanish subtitles and presentations and discussions will be provided in English and Spanish.

The event is free, open to all, and childcare will be available.

Please register by Tuesday, October 25thby calling the health department at 508-991-6199.

Dartmouth, MA – October 21, 2022 – On Thursday, October 27, two indigenous rights advocates from Guatemala will visit the University of Massachusetts of Dartmouth to explain the current situation in Guatemala. Corrupt political, military, and economic elites have captured the state, rural and indigenous communities are under attack, and migration to the U.S. continues to grow -- including migration to the SouthCoast. 
 
Thelma Cabrera and Neftalí López are leaders of the Committee for Peasant Development (Comité de Desarrollo Campesino or CODECA) and will speak about Guatemala: Human Rights, Indigenous Peoples and Migration on Thursday, October 27 at 12:30 p.m. at the Frederick Douglass Unity House. The talk will be in Spanish with an English translation. This event is sponsored by the Sociology and Anthropology Department and the Frederick Douglass Unity House in coordination with the Alianza para una Guatemala Mejor (Alliance for a Better Guatemala). 
 
For more information, contact Dr. Lisa Maya Knauer, chairperson of the Sociology and Anthropology Department: lknauer@umassd.edu or 508-999-8405.
 

BOSTON, MA – October 21, 2022 – The state’s September total unemployment rate was 3.4 percent, down two-tenths of a percentage point over-the-month, the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development announced Friday. 
 
The Bureau of Labor Statistics’ preliminary job estimates indicate Massachusetts gained 13,800 jobs in September. This follows last month’s revised gain of 800 jobs. The largest over the month private sector job gains were in Leisure and Hospitality, Education and Health Services, and Construction. Employment now stands at 3,691,700.  Since the employment trough in April 2020, Massachusetts gained 640,700 jobs. 
 
From September 2021 to September 2022, BLS estimates Massachusetts gained 151,700 jobs. The largest over the year gains occurred in Leisure and Hospitality, Education and Health Services, and Professional, Scientific, and Business Services.  
 
The September unemployment rate of 3.4 percent was one-tenth of a percentage point below the national rate of 3.5 percent reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.  
 
 

With the coming of November, we begin the holiday season and, there is much to celebrate. This year, our Annual Meeting will be take place on Thursday, November 3, 2022 at Whites of Westport. Registration begins at 7:30 AM and the Meeting begins at 8 AM.

This year we are using this important setting to bring to our members two wonderful and important awards ceremonies. 

Seven SouthCoast residents are recipients of the 2022 John S. Brayton Community Service Awards, which honors individuals who have made a genuine difference the in region. 

Carl Cruz

Carl Cruz has distinguished himself admirably in advocating for his fellow man throughout his life, both professionally and in his volunteer service. He is a lifelong resident of New Bedford with a master’s degree in social work and is a licensed clinical social worker. Carl is now retired after starting his career at the Bristol County Probate and Family Court in 1978.  

Dr. Laura L. Douglas

Bristol Community College President Laura L. Douglas, Ph.D., is an agent of growth and change dedicated to working with students, faculty and staff to foster an inclusive environment with a rich diversity of beliefs, cultures, languages, abilities and lifestyles. Taking the helm as Bristol Community College’s fourth president on July 1, 2017, President Douglas is dedicated to driving a college-going culture in the region. 

Brian LeComte

Brian LeComte is a fourth generation owner of Gold Medal Bakery. He is currently President and Chief Operating Officer of this baked goods supplier headquartered in Fall River. Brian recently served as Chair of the One SouthCoast Chamber and has served as the Treasurer of the American Baker’s Association for the last four years. 

Patrick (Pat) J. Murray, Jr.

Patrick (Pat) J. Murray, Jr. is President and CEO of Bristol County Savings Bank; a Taunton, Massachusetts based full-service banking institution with approximately $3 billion in assets. Pat has held his current position for the past ten years and previously served the Bank in a number of capacities, including Treasurer and Chief Operating Officer. 

Richard & Debbie Pelletier

Richard Pelletier has directed numerous choirs, choral groups, and live pageants in the region. He has served as President of the Little Theatre of Fall River and has directed well over a dozen shows for them and various civic and religious organizations. 

Debbie Pelletier was the first clerk of the Niagara Neighborhood Association, is a former board member of the BCC Dental Hygiene Alumni Association, Southeastern Massachusetts Dental Hygienists Association and Little Theatre of Fall River.

Cynthia Rose

Cynthia Rose grew up in New Bedford, earned her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Salve Regina University and a MS in human development and administration from Northeastern University. She worked as police officer for the City of New Bedford for 22 years and had a career in public service before retiring in 2010 as the Assistant Clerk Magistrate in the New Bedford District Court.  

Anthony R. Sapienza

Anthony R. Sapienza is the President of the Board of Directors of the New Bedford Economic Development Council in which capacity he has served for 15 years. The NBEDC Board leads the not-for-profit corporation that is the economic development agency for the City of New Bedford. In 2018, he retired as the President/CEO of the JA Apparel Corp. and the Joseph Abboud Mfg. Corp. after a 45-year career in the men’s fashion and apparel industry.

Kimberly J. Smith

Kimberly J. Smith, Executive Director of United Way of Greater Fall River, has been actively involved in the SouthCoast community for 30 years. Her professional career began in 1992 with the Waring-Sullivan Funeral Homes, where she dedicated her career as a Funeral Director & Embalmer in both MA & RI. Kim’s stars aligned in 2018 when she selected to fill the role as Executive Director of United Way.

Four SouthCoast businesses are recipients of the 2022 APEX Awards, which pays tribute to the hard work, sacrifice and dedication local business owners and professionals bestow upon the region.

Merrow Manufacturing

Merrow Manufacturing is a technical soft goods manufacturer located in Fall River, Ma. In 1838 Merrow began as a general store, and quickly developed into a diverse manufacturing organization, developing and building apparel, gear and instrumented soft goods. Merrow is also one part of a larger group of companies that specialize in manufacturing sewing machines (Merrow), technology and fashion.

New Bedford Public Schools

New Bedford Public Schools began exploring opportunities to expand their partnerships with higher education during the 2019-2020 school year and later applied for and received Early College designation in partnership with Bristol Community College. This partnership includes pathways for Business, Health, and Information Technology.  At the same time, we entered into a pilot with UMass Dartmouth to develop an Early College pathway for Fine Arts.  

Spindle City Auto Glass

Since 1999, Spindle City Glass has been the trusted local choice for your auto glass needs and take pride in the impact they make on the local workforce and economy. They consistently recruit from Diman Regional Vocation Technical High School, in particular, the Auto Collision Shop and remain committed to utilizing local small businesses for their supply, marketing and promotional needs.

YWCA Southeastern MA

YWCA Southeastern Massachusetts is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all people. They provide programs and direct services to over 4,000 people annually within four concentrations: Adult Services, Youth Services, Health, Wellness, and Residential Services. 

To preregister, please visit https://members.onesouthcoast.com/events/details/one-southcoast-annual-meeting-brayton-apex-awards-breakfast-498367

The event is sponsored by SouthCoast Health, BankFive, BayCoast Bank, Bristol County Savings Bank, First Citizens’ Federal Credit Union and Webster Bank.

Last week, Lawyers for Civil Rights (LCR) sent a fact-finding delegation to Texas and Mexico to explore the conditions and dynamics near the U.S.-Mexico border. LCR undertook this mission shortly after filing a federal class action complaint on behalf of the Venezuelan migrants who were fraudulently induced to travel to Martha’s Vineyard as part of a political stunt carried out by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and his conspirators. 

During the trip, LCR’s delegation visited with immigrant families, community leaders, legal advocacy groups, migrant shelters, and governmental organizations to hear about – and observe firsthand – the conditions endured by our clients and other recent arrivals to the United States. 

In San Antonio, Texas, LCR’s fact-finding team:

•    visited the location where “Perla” and others first approached the Martha’s Vineyard migrants. In the area immediately surrounding the Migrant Resource Center, at 7000 San Pedro Avenue in San Antonio, LCR staff spoke to numerous families and individuals who expressed gratitude for the Center’s assistance, while still lacking shoes, clothing and other basic necessities, leaving them susceptible to nefarious influences from bad actors such as DeSantis and “Perla.” 

•    observed firsthand the extreme vulnerability of recent migrants.  Most were on the brink of homelessness, wearing wristbands indicating the three-day limit on stays at the Migrant Resource Center.  As one Venezuelan woman told us: “I stayed at the Center for three days, they gave me food and undergarments, but … we are waiting out here for people to come and drop off clothes and shoes. We often see people stopping by and talking to migrants, we hope to be able to get what we need.” While on site, LCR’s team observed the arrival of Good Samaritans with gifts and donations, but many needs went unmet.

•    visited the motel, La Quinta at 6511 West Military Drive in San Antonio, where migrants were sequestered pending their fraudulent relocation to Martha’s Vineyard. Located far from the Migrant Resource Center, near the outskirts of San Antonio, the motel is geographically isolated. 

•    Met with community leaders from the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund (MALDEF) and Texas RioGrande Legal Aid (TRLA) to learn more about how our broken immigration system impacts families and children.

In El Paso, Texas, LCR’s delegation observed migrants being boarded on buses to New York, Chicago, and Washington, DC. LCR’s team also:

•    Visited migrant shelters and conferred with local authorities and community leaders assisting recently arrived migrants, including Sin Fronteras Coalition for the Homeless, the Migrant Welcome Centers run by the City of El Paso and County of El Paso. 

•    Conducted know-your-rights presentations and workshops for migrants in various welcome centers and shelters focusing on helping migrants understand the importance of remaining in compliance with federal immigration law.

•    Observed “Hugs Not Walls,” a powerful event organized by the Border Network for Human Rights (BNHR), which brings together families from the U.S. and Mexico who are separated due to our broken immigration system. The event takes place – literally – on the Rio Grande. 

•    Connected with community leaders from advocacy groups, including binational organizations such as BNHR, Hope Border Institute, and Las Americas Immigrant Advocacy Center, to learn more about the current dynamics at the border. 

We learned that while there has been better coordination between El Paso’s migrant resource centers and local authorities in recent months, there are still many challenges to overcome. 
 
In Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, the delegation:
•    Observed firsthand how the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s recent Venezuelan policy is exacerbating the pain and suffering of those fleeing Venezuela. The policy was announced on October 12 and went into immediate effect while we visited the border. As vulnerable Venezuelans were returned to Mexico en masse, we could see the chaos. 

•    Many Venezuelans, including families with children, are now stranded in Mexico without access to food, shelter, medical services, or immigration protection. 

•    LCR also encountered migrants who claimed that the new Venezuelan policy was applied retroactively against those who were already on U.S. soil.  

Take-Aways and Quotes From LCR’s Fact-Finding Mission
 
LCR attorneys will continue to aggressively litigate LCR’s class action on behalf of the Martha’s Vineyard migrants. LCR will also closely monitor the departure and arrival of buses and/or planes with migrants from the U.S. border.
 
“Defendants in our class action lawsuit preyed on the vulnerability of our clients — many of whom had suffered deep trauma in their home countries and on their journeys to the United States — and exploited this vulnerability to win trust through false promises,” said Iván Espinoza-Madrigal, Executive Director of Lawyers for Civil Rights. “We cannot allow these conditions to continue or allow anyone to use migrants as political pawns again.”
 
“LCR made valuable connections on our fact-finding mission to Texas and Mexico earlier this month,” said Oren Sellstrom, Litigation Director at Lawyer for Civil Rights. “We look forward to using what we learned to better advocate for our client communities, and particularly to vindicate the rights of our Martha’s Vineyard clients.” 
 
“Our country must do more to address and understand the complex conditions at the border,” said Mirian Albert, Staff Attorney at Lawyers for Civil Rights. “Our client’s experiences – including violence, hunger, and exploitation – were not uncommon amongst the migrants we were able to learn from in Texas.” 
 
“The acute desperation we observed among migrants in San Antonio and elsewhere in Texas is heartbreaking,” said Jacob Love, Staff Attorney at Lawyers for Civil Rights. “That anyone would exploit such desperation to advance a political agenda is unconscionable, and we will not rest until our clients, and those similarly situated, are made whole.” 
 

At 11am on Friday, October 21st, State Representative Carole Fiola and State Senator Michael Rodrigues will host a Dedication Ceremony of the Grove at Heritage State Park (in the picnic area) in honor of David Almond, a Fall River autistic teen, who tragically passed away in October of 2020 at the age of 14 from starvation and neglect. Community members are invited to attend and take a moment to remember David and create a permanent reminder that children, just like David, live within our system and deserve all of our care, attention and vigilance from those who may cause them harm or death.  

David's death sparked outrage and led to the Office of the Child Advocate to conduct a multi-agency review which has resulted in numerous substantial policy changes, so that tragedies like this one do not happen again.
 
Representative Fiola and Senator Rodrigues filed legislation to dedicate the grove at Heritage State Park as the David Almond Grove in his honor. https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/H4832 

The Investigation Status Report from the Office of the Child Advocate was released in March of 2022 and can be found here: https://www.mass.gov/doc/oca-investigation-status-report-on-david-almondmarch-2022/download 
 

The New England Patriots (3-3) and the Chicago Bears (2-4) announce the following player injuries and practice participation.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2022

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (3-3)

DID NOT PARTICIPATE
WR Nelson Agholor - Hamstring

LIMITED PARTICIPATION
DL Christian Barmore - Knee
WR Kendrick Bourne - Toe
DL Lawrence Guy - Shoulder
CB Jonathan Jones - Ankle
QB Mac Jones - Ankle
G Mike Onwenu - Ankle
TE Jonnu Smith - Ankle
LB Josh Uche, Hamstring
T Isaiah Wynn - Shoulder

FULL PARTICIPATION
RB Damien Harris - Hamstring

CHICAGO BEARS (2-4)

DID NOT PARTICIPATE
No Players Listed.

LIMITED PARTICIPATION
No Players Listed.

FULL PARTICIPATION
No Players Listed.

Taunton Superintendent John Cabral has requested an independent administrative review of the district’s response to an incident among students on an elementary school playground last week. Cabral said the incident happened during recess at the Elizabeth Pole Elementary School. The superintendent explained that the students were playing a game with a jump rope where they wrapped it around one another, pulled on it and spun in circles leaving  one student with injuries to her neck, which Cabral said she reported to a school nurse. The superintendent said a school resource officer did try to contact the student’s parents following the incident but was unsuccessful.

Cabral said the independent review will determine whether the district’s policies and procedures were properly followed.

According to CBS 12 in Providence, police are asking the public for help in finding a missing 16-year-old girl from Raynham. Colleen Weaver was last seen around 1 a.m. Tuesday at her home in the area of Orchard and King streets. Weaver has red-pink hair, stands five feet tall, and may be wearing glasses. Those who live in her neighborhood are asked to review their security camera footage and contact police with any information. Raynham police also confirmed Weaver was not the 16-year-old girl killed in a crash overnight on I-495 in Wareham. 

Tuesday is the deadline to request a mail ballot for Rhode Island’s General Election with the ballot request is due by 4:00 p.m. at your local board of canvassers. According to NBC 10 in Providence, the General Election will be held on November 8. The addresses of the local board of canvassers are listed in the mail ballot application form. Scribd.com posted the sample ballot for the November 8 election which can be found on their website or on Turnto10.com.

The infamous childrens store, Toys R Us,  is returning ahead of the holiday season. According to CBS 12 in Providence,  new in-store locations have opened in select Macy’s department stores across the country, including in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. The announcement came in July that it was adding toy shops to all of its locations across the U.S. The toy store filed for bankruptcy in 2017 and soon closed all of its locations in 2018. To mark the grand openings at all of its stores, Macy’s is holding nine days of activities starting on Saturday. Locations where the customers can find the return of the store includes the South Shore Plaza and in Dartmouth.

A full list of locations where the shops can be found is on Macy’s website.

Just minutes before an inmate was found dead inside a New Bedford jail, correctional officers were busy preventing another inmate from dying by suicide. According to CBS 12 in Providence, 34 year old Adam Howe was found unresponsive in his cell by correctional officers at the Ash Street Jail earlier this month WHEN He was rushed to the hospital. Bristol County Sheriff Thomas Hodgson said the correctional officer conducting the spot checks walked by a woman’s cell, saw her attempting to harm herself and immediately intervened. Howe, who was suspected of killing his mother and setting her body on fire, dying of an apparent suicide 

By a margin of 236 yes and 73 no, Voters in Somerset  lasr niight approved one School Resource Officer, while two other SRO requests were postponed indefinetly, but could be brought back once a safety assessment is concluded at school buildings with PreK to 8th grade students.

The vote was part of a Special Town Meeting in the Fine Arts Center in the Somerset Berkley Regional High School. 

The SRO will work for the rest of the school year at a cost of $75,000, 

The price of the Safety Assessment is  $50,000

The New England Patriots will host the Chicago Bears this coming Monday in Gillette Stadium, with coverage on the Patriots Radio Network at 5:30pm on 95.9 and 1480 WSAR, and an 8:15pm Kickoff. 

The Patriots are a 7.5 point favorite, with an over/under of 38.5.

Westwood, MA, October 17, 2022 — The average gas price in Massachusetts is up 4 cents from last week ($3.56), averaging $3.60 per gallon. Today’s price is 10 cents lower than a month ago ($3.70), and 34 cents higher than October 17, 2021 ($3.26). Massachusetts’ average gas price is 28 cents lower than the national average.

“Despite concerns about the economy and declining demand for gasoline, gas prices increased again last week as markets continue to reckon with recently-announced production cuts from OPEC+ nations and the prospect of a colder-than-normal winter in the Northeast,” said Mary Maguire, AAA Northeast Vice President of Public and Government Affairs. “Even though national inventories of gas and oil increased last week, supplies are still well below seasonal averages and refiners have sparse capacity to increase production.”

AAA Northeast’s October 17 survey of fuel prices found the current national average to be 3 cents lower than last week ($3.91), averaging $3.88 a gallon. Today’s national average price is 20 cents higher than a month ago ($3.68), and 57 cents higher than this day last year ($3.31).
 

A section of Water Main on North Main Street in Fall River will be shut down starting at 9pm this coming Thursday, October 20, 2022, with water shut off for at least 8 hours. 

The impacted area is expected to be from President Avenue to Alton Street, along with isolated areas on the streets from North Main to Highland Avenue adjacent to this area. 

Other locations in the immediate area may be impacted depending on the location of isolation valves. 

A section of Atlantic Boulevard in the vicinity of Mount Hope Avenue will experience periodic road closures as needed for water main work in that area. 

The closures will be in effect starting now through December 2nd. 

If you have questions please contact the Water Maintenance Division at 508 324 2720. 

Westwood, MA— National Teen Driver Safety Week is October 16-22, 2022 — the perfect opportunity to talk with teens about safe driving habits.

AAA Northeast hopes to empower parents to discuss safe driving habits with their young drivers. Assure your teen driver knows the Junior Operator Laws, and you’ve signed a Parent-Teen Driving Agreement before you hand over the keys. Ultimately, parents are in control.

In Massachusetts over 16,000 teen drivers 16-19 years of age were involved in crashes in 2021, equating to one teen-involved crash every 32 minutes.  Teen driver fatalities and serious injuries were the highest since 2012; 144 teen drivers were killed or very seriously injured, and 2,160 teen drivers were injured.  Factors contributing to teen driver crashes in Massachusetts in 2021 included:

o          Failure to yield right of way (2,668 crashes)
o          Followed too closely (2,071 crashes)
o          Speeding / driving too fast for conditions (1,039 crashes)
o          Failing to keep in proper lane / running off road (824 crashes)

“Parents play a critical role in teen driver safety and in communicating important driving safety information,” said Mary Maguire, Vice President of Public Affairs at AAA Northeast. “New teen drivers are still gaining experience behind the wheel, which increases the chance of dangerous situations for the teen and other roadway users around them,” she said. “This is why it’s so important for parents to have these discussions with their teens. Start the conversation today and continue it every day. AAA encourages families develop a parent-teen driving contract and agree on rules that exceed state laws. Have discussions with your teen drivers about risky driving behaviors that can lead to fatal consequences.”

These discussions should cover how to influence positive behaviors and how to approach dangerous and deadly driving behaviors such as alcohol and other drug use, lack of seat belt use, distracted driving, speeding, or driving with passengers.

1.         Impaired Driving: All teens are too young to legally buy, possess, or consume alcohol or cannabis. Nationally, 19% of teen passenger vehicle drivers involved in fatal crashes in 2020 had alcohol in their system. Alcohol isn’t the only substance that can keep teens from driving safely- cannabis affects a driver’s ability to react to their surroundings. Driving is a complex task and cannabis slows the reaction time. Remind teens that driving under the influence of any impairing substance — including illicit or prescription drugs, or over-the-counter medication — can have deadly consequences. Let teens know that positive driving behaviors are rewarded with the continued privilege to drive.

2.         Seat Belt Safety: Wearing a seat belt is one simple way teens can stay safer in a vehicle. Unfortunately, too many teens aren’t buckling up. Over half (52%) of the teen passenger vehicle drivers who died in crashes in 2020 were unbuckled. Teen drivers and passengers are more likely to die in a crash if they are unbuckled (nine out of 10 of the passengers who died were also unbuckled). Empower teens to stand strong and confirm everyone is buckled up — including front seat and back seat passengers —before the vehicle moves. Reward teens with driving privileges for buckling up every trip, every time, and requiring their passengers to do the same.

3.         Distracted Driving: In Massachusetts, inattention and distraction caused 3,710 crashes. Cell phone use while driving is more than just risky — it can be deadly. Texting while driving is outlawed in 47 states, Washington DC, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Remind teens about the dangers of using a phone while driving and clarify that any phone use (texting, talking, or using any social media apps) is unacceptable. Even if they are stopped at a light, remind teens that posting on social media while driving is unacceptable and illegal. 

Distracted driving isn’t limited to cell phone use. Other passengers, audio and climate controls in the vehicle, and eating or drinking while driving are all examples of dangerous distractions for any driver. According to the most recent data available, in 2020, among teen drivers of passenger vehicles involved in fatal crashes, 7% were reported as distracted at the time of the crash. Remind teens that headphones are not appropriate to wear while driving a vehicle. All drivers need to be able to hear another vehicle’s horn or the siren from an emergency vehicle, so they can safely move over and out of the path. 

4.         Speed Limits: Speeding is a critical issue for all drivers, especially for teens who are less experienced. In 2020, almost one-third (31%) of all teen drivers of passenger vehicles involved in fatal crashes were speeding at the time of the crash. Males were more likely to be involved in fatal speeding-related crashes than females. Remind teens to always drive within the speed limit. 

5.         Passengers: Passengers in a teen’s vehicle can lead to disastrous consequences. Research shows the risk of a fatal crash dramatically increases in direct relation to the number of passengers in a vehicle. The likelihood that a teen driver will engage in risky behavior triples when multiple passengers are in the same vehicle.

Parents can help teen drivers by discussing risky driving behaviors. Self-reported surveys show that teens whose parents set firm rules for driving typically engaged in less risky driving behaviors and were involved in fewer crashes. 

Teens need to understand the rules, whether there are any other restrictions outlined in the Massachusetts’s Junior Operator License (JOL) law, and the deadly consequences that could occur. By knowing and enforcing the laws, the teen driver’s safety and that of other road users can be improved. The Parent’s Supervised Driving program guidebook is a wonderful resource for parents as they work on driving skills with young drivers.  “Getting new drivers behind the wheel in diverse driving

environments is extremely important- log as many hours as possible and continue to practice even after they have earned their provisional license,” said Maguire.
 

Average gasoline prices in Massachusetts have risen 2.5 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 9.3 cents per gallon lower than a month ago and stand 31.5 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average price of diesel has increased 18.7 cents in the last week and stands at $5.06 per gallon.

According to GasBuddy price reports, the cheapest station in Massachusetts was priced at $3.15/g yesterday while the most expensive was $4.99/g, a difference of $1.84/g. The lowest price in the state yesterday was $3.15/g while the highest was $4.99/g, a difference of $1.84/g.

The national average price of gasoline has fallen 5.4 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.86/g today. The national average is up 20.6 cents per gallon from a month ago and stands 56.6 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:
October 17, 2021: $3.24/g (U.S. Average: $3.30/g) October 17, 2020: $2.08/g (U.S. Average: $2.16/g) October 17, 2019: $2.52/g (U.S. Average: $2.67/g) October 17, 2018: $2.84/g (U.S. Average: $2.86/g) October 17, 2017: $2.56/g (U.S. Average: $2.45/g) October 17, 2016: $2.18/g (U.S. Average: $2.23/g) October 17, 2015: $2.16/g (U.S. Average: $2.26/g) October 17, 2014: $3.22/g (U.S. Average: $3.13/g) October 17, 2013: $3.42/g (U.S. Average: $3.35/g) October 17, 2012: $3.87/g (U.S. Average: $3.75/g)

Neighboring areas and their current gas prices:
Rhode Island- $3.53/g, up 7.0 cents per gallon from last week's $3.46/g.
Worcester- $3.52/g, up 1.9 cents per gallon from last week's $3.50/g.
Providence- $3.54/g, up 8.7 cents per gallon from last week's $3.45/g. 

"After a sharp rise in the national average over the last few weeks, we've seen an abrupt, yet expected decline as refinery issues have eased in the West and Great Lakes, overpowering some increases elsewhere. Though at the same time, diesel prices have soared," said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy.

"We'll see a continued sharp drop in gas prices on the West Coast, including areas like Las Vegas and Phoenix, which are supplied by refiners in California, as refinery outages have been addressed. The Great Lakes will see prices drift lower as BP's Whiting refinery is soon to complete maintenance. In addition, oil prices have cooled off slightly after OPEC+'s decision to cut production, and that should slow increases elsewhere. Diesel and heating oil prices are likely to continue to rise as extremely low inventories of middle of the barrel products like these two push prices higher."

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.

SOURCE GasBuddy
 

BOSTON (October 6, 2022) – There’s a new way to run with Dunkin’®! Today, the brand is rolling out its improved loyalty program nationwide: Dunkin’ Rewards™, formerly DD Perks®. Designed to keep America running with the best that Dunkin' has to offer, Dunkin’ Rewards is driven and designed around member feedback. The revamped program introduces more food and beverage rewards, increased flexibility on when and how guests choose to use their points, and an all-new Boosted Status, a special loyalty tier for Dunkin’s most dedicated fans. 

“When we set out to improve DD Perks, we asked our members what they wanted to see in a new program. They told us three things: flexibility, variety, and recognition,” said Scott Murphy, head of the beverage-snack category and president at Dunkin'. “And we did just that – we solved the three biggest constraints to bring a new and improved customer experience to Dunkin' fans.”

In launching Dunkin’ Rewards, the brand is taking a step forward to further evolve and improve what it means to be a member at Dunkin’ and to stay in lockstep with the most loyal guests, both current and future members.

Save ‘em, Stack ‘em, Use ‘em How You Want

With the new program, Dunkin’ Rewards members will earn points faster, receiving 10 points for every $1 spent compared to 5 points with DD Perks. Plus, rewards start at just 150 points instead of 200 points, meaning members can redeem a reward after spending $15.

For the first time, free food is on the menu with Dunkin’ Rewards! Members can redeem points for donuts, hash browns, bagels, breakfast sandwiches, and more, or choose to stack their points and redeem multiple items in a single transaction. This means members with enough points can choose to get an entire meal for free at Dunkin’.

One of the best parts — Dunkin’ Rewards points won’t expire as long as members remain active by making one or more qualifying Dunkin’ purchase every six months. That’s more points and rewards for members to use any way they want!

Go Boost Mode

The more you go, the more you get! Dunkin’ is excited to introduce Boosted Status, a new loyalty tier within Dunkin’ Rewards for its most dedicated fans. Members visit 12 times in a calendar month to reach Boosted Status and unlock even more points and benefits for the following 3 months. Members can extend their status by visiting Dunkin’ 12 times each calendar month.

Runnin’ Has Its Rewards

To welcome new and existing members to Dunkin’ Rewards, the brand is kicking off a full line-up of freebies for the rest of the month.

Now through October 31, members can:

Earn FREE 10-count MUNCHKINS® Donut Hole Treats or Bagel Minis with any full-priced medium or larger beverage purchase.

Earn 2X points on Donuts, MUNCHKINS ® Donut Hole Treats and Espresso drinks.
Mobile Mondays: Earn 100 bonus points when you order ahead on the Dunkin’ app on Mondays.
Members with Boosted Status will earn 2X points on Beverages and Breakfast Sandwiches – getting them closer to something free even faster.

Beginning October 12, members can also earn a FREE Breakfast Sandwich with any full-priced medium or larger beverage purchase.

Get a Runnin’ Start!

Current DD Perks members will be converted automatically into Dunkin’ Rewards with their existing points. To thank Dunkin’ fans for their continued support, current members will receive a welcome gift of 150 points! That means every existing member across the country will unlock a Li’L Treat reward for one of the following: 3-count MUNCHKINS® Donut Hole Treats, 6-count Hash Browns, one Espresso shot added to a drink – or the member can save those points towards other treats. It’s never been easier to get rewarded at Dunkin’!

Members can join Dunkin’ Rewards today by simply downloading the Dunkin’ app and registering to join, or by enrolling online at dunkinrewards.com.

To learn more about Dunkin’, visit www.DunkinDonuts.com or subscribe to the Dunkin’ blog to receive notifications at https://news.dunkindonuts.com/blog.
  

About Dunkin’

Founded in 1950, Dunkin' is America's favorite all-day, everyday stop for coffee and baked goods. Dunkin' is a market leader in the hot regular/decaf/flavored coffee, iced regular/decaf/flavored coffee, donut, bagel, and muffin categories. Dunkin' has earned a No. 1 ranking for customer loyalty in the coffee category for 16 years running. The company has more than 12,600 franchised restaurants in 40 countries worldwide. Dunkin' is part of the Inspire Brands family of restaurants. For more information, visit www.DunkinDonuts.com.

Taylor Snow?@taylorcsnow
Team Reporter
October 16, 20225:28 PM EDT

Over the past three weeks, Justin Jackson and Noah Vonleh battled among a handful of Celtics training camp invitees over Boston’s two remaining roster spots. Their determination paid off, as they both made the final cut just ahead of Tuesday’s season-opener against Philadelphia.

Jackson, a 6-foot-8 forward with five years of NBA experience, gives Boston some added depth at the wing. The former 15th overall pick scored 26 points in 52 preseason minutes, which included 16 points off the bench on Oct. 7 in a 112-103 win over the Charlotte Hornets.

Vonleh, a 6-foot-10 power forward/center with seven NBA seasons under his belt, brings a strong rebounding presence to Boston’s frontcourt, which should help during Rob Williams’ injury absence at the start of the season.  The Boston-area native and former ninth overall pick tallied 29-points and a team-high 29 rebounds in 56 preseason minutes while he shooting 85.7 percent from the field, which ranked second in the league behind Brooklyn’s Nic Claxton (88.9 percent). His best performance also came during that win over the Hornets when he logged a double-double of 14 points and 13 boards.

Both veterans believe that their respective skill sets will allow them to fit right into the Celtics’ system, as they proved throughout the past few weeks.

“For me,” said Jackson, “it’s just kind of being a floor spacer offensively, being able to shoot, play off close-outs. And then defensively, just trying to use my height, my length to hopefully guard some different positions. They like to switch a lot here, and so there's really no position, guarding-wise, because you end up guarding everybody.”

Vonleh also prides himself on being able to guard several positions, which is a beneficial skill to have while playing for a switch-heavy team.

“You see, the whole league is based on versatility,” Vonleh said. “A lot of guys are switching, teams are going 1-5, so we’ll start off with the 5-man being in drop sometimes, but as the game goes on, we’ll start switching 1-5 and I feel like I’m one of those guys that can incorporate well into that.”

Beyond that, Vonleh says, “Just coming in, doing my work, screening, getting guys open, playing with a lot of energy, rolling, putting a lot of pressure on the rim, and rebounding. I feel like I can be one of the best rebounders on the team, so just got to get on that glass.”

Both players already have solid grasp on the ins and outs of Celtics basketball because they both have previous ties to the organization.

Growing up in Salem and Haverhill, Massachusetts, Vonleh has always kept a close watch on his hometown team.  As for Jackson, he briefly played for the Celtics last December on a 10-day contract while the team was dealing with a plethora of COVID-related absences.

“I got to kind of get to know the coaching staff, most of the players, kind of hang around and see what they had going on,” Jackson recalls of last year’s stint in Boston. “And obviously, after I left, they just got better and better. So for me, it's just coming in here and enjoying the time with these guys, trying to push them each and every day, and push myself and just try to get better.”

After pushing themselves over the past few weeks, both Jackson and Vonleh can finally let out a celebratory breath of relief before getting back to work.

“It was a lot of hard work that went into it,” Jackson said of making the team. “It definitely feels gratifying to see that hard work turn into somewhat of a reward.”

New Bedford, Massachusetts – New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell and Massachusetts State Representative Bill Straus have received a commitment for design and project funding for a new terminal and control tower for New Bedford Regional Airport from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation. 
 
In June of this year, Mitchell and Straus hosted a visit to the airport by Secretary Tesler for the Secretary to be briefed by Airport Commission members and staff on the project background and design options for a new airport terminal.  The current administration and passenger facility at the New Bedford Regional Airport was built in the 1950’s and is in need of replacement and infrastructure updates.  The current terminal building is the oldest commercial airport terminal in New England still in active use.
 
Specifically, Straus and Mitchell are confirming, “MassDOT is funding and authorizing the City/Airport Commission to proceed with full design and engineering of the Airport Terminal Building. As part of this overall engineering effort, a critical and early component of this process will be to update the Airport Layout Plan (ALP).  An updated ALP is an essential ingredient for eligibility for Federal and State funds and can be completed in advance of the completion of the full design. Additionally, within the next update to the Capital Improvement Plan, MassDOT will incorporate this project.”  
 
The commitment from the state means the city’s airport commission can begin immediate design and permitting to bring the replacement facility to a bid-ready level of completion while funding for the project’s completion will be a part of the state’s five-year Capital Improvement Plan.  As a result of this funding authorization by the state, completed designs and permits can be expected by mid-2023.
 
Mayor Mitchell and Representative Straus, House Chair of the Legislature’s Joint Transportation Committee, have continued to have conversations in recent months with Secretary Tesler to review the project’s status, which led to today’s announcement.
 
“I want to thank the Mayor and the Commission for their aggressive pursuit of this needed project which meets an important need in the region’s transportation growth over the next several years,” said Representative Straus.  “This state commitment, however, would not have been possible without the strong interest in the South Coast by Governor Baker and Lieutenant Governor Polito”, he added.
 
“I want to thank Chairman Straus for teaming up with my administration, along with Chairman Carlos DaCunha and the other members of the Airport Commission, to advance this long-needed project, which will bolster the airport’s ability to expand commercial air service offerings,” said Mayor Mitchell.  “It represents another key investment by the Baker-Polito Administration to support Greater New Bedford’s long-term economic competitiveness.”
 
Secretary Tesler added MassDOT is pleased to advance projects at New Bedford Regional Airport, “Municipal airports are a tremendous boost to the economic vitality of a region and investments in New Bedford and updating the Airport Layout Plan will have positive benefits for residents and the business community for many decades.”
 
The Massachusetts Department of Transportation Aeronautics Division (https://www.mass.gov/orgs/aeronautics-division) is tasked by statute with building, maintaining, and advancing an efficient Massachusetts aviation system to drive economic development and improve the quality of life in the Commonwealth. MassDOT Aeronautics is the lead agency responsible for planning aviation capital investment for the Commonwealth’s 35 public use airports, as well as a variety of private use landing areas, seaplane bases, and heliports.

October 14, 2022

BOSTON, MA—The Boston Red Sox yesterday claimed right-handed pitcher Jake Reed off waivers from the Baltimore Orioles. To make room for Reed on the 40-man roster, the club designated right-handed pitcher Eduard Bazardo for assignment.

Chief Baseball Officer Chaim Bloom made the announcement.

Reed, 30, made 18 relief appearances for the New York Mets, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Baltimore this season, posting a 7.02 ERA (13 ER/16.2 IP). He also recorded a 3.09 ERA (8 ER/23.1 IP) in 20 minor league outings (one start) with 26 strikeouts, eight walks, and only one home run allowed. Selected by the Minnesota Twins in the fifth round of the 2014 First-Year Player Draft, the right-hander is 2-1 with a 5.74 ERA (17 ER/26.2 IP) in 28 career major league appearances (one start) for New York, Los Angeles, and Baltimore.

Bazardo, 27, was 1-0 with a 2.33 ERA (5 ER/19.1 IP) in 14 relief appearances for Boston over the last two seasons, the first outings of his Major League career. Signed by the Red Sox as an international free agent in 2014, the right-hander is 27-24 with a 2.85 ERA (145 ER/382.2 IP) in 151 minor league appearances (35 starts).

BOSTON RED SOX 40-MAN ROSTER (40)

Pitchers (21): Matt Barnes, Brayan Bello, Ryan Brasier, Kutter Crawford, Tyler Danish, Nathan Eovaldi, Franklin German, Darwinzon Hernandez, Rich Hill, Zack Kelly, Bryan Mata, Easton McGee, Kaleb Ort, Nick Pivetta, Jake Reed, John Schreiber, Connor Seabold, Matt Strahm, Michael Wacha, Garrett Whitlock, Josh Winckowski

Catchers (4): Caleb Hamilton, Ronaldo Hernández, Reese McGuire, Connor Wong

Infielders (8): Xander Bogaerts, Triston Casas, Yu Chang, Bobby Dalbec, Rafael Devers, Jeter Downs, Eric Hosmer, Trevor Story

Outfielders (5): Jarren Duran, J.D. Martinez, Tommy Pham, Rob Refsnyder, Alex Verdugo

Infielder/Outfielders (2): Christian Arroyo, Kiké Hernández

According to CBS 12 in Providence, Massachusetts State Police are investigating a crash after a driver was killed Monday morning between two trucks on I-495. Early investigations showed a waste services truck carrying a dumpster was stopped in traffic in the right lane waiting to take an off-ramp to I-93 when it was hit from behind by a box truck, The driver of the box truck was taken to Lawrence General Hospital where he was pronounced dead while the 28-year-old Brockton waste services truck driver appeared unhurt and declined medical attention after the crash as The crash remains under investigation.

According to CBS 12 in Providence, a New Bedford man was sentenced to four years in state prison on trafficking charges after they found over 30 grams of fentanyl in his apartment. The 42 year old, Brian Still pleaded guilty to trafficking in excess of 18 grams of Fentanyl as Police searched the apartment on Coffin Avenue back in 2020 and found multiple bags of the substance in different rooms including empty cut corner bags, digital scales, and over $1,200 in cash. Still was previously convicted of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and on drug distribution charges. 

Drivers were urged to avoid three Seekonk streets due to a chemical spill yesterday. According to CBS 12 in Providence, Olney, Cole, and Anthony streets were closed yesterday morning, prompting detours. Crews were on scene for several hours and cleaned up the area of Cole Street in front of George R. Martin Elementary School.

No word yet on the source of the spill or on any injuries as investigations continue.

According to CBS 12 in Providence, a not so expected tractor-trailer truck rolled over in Fall River Tuesday night, sending dozens of watermelons pouring out onto a major highway. The truck was driving down Route 79 South near North Main Street when it rolled over, spilling its cargo over the median and onto the northbound side of the highway. The driver was transported to the hospital with injuries that don’t appear to be life-threatening.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation at this time.

According to ABC 6, a New Bedford man was arrested in connection to an armed robbery at a grocery store in Hyannis Sunday. Barnstable police said they responded at about 7:30 p.m. to the Ocean Street Market. Later, Police identified 42-year-old Michael Medeiros as a suspect. He was later arrested. During the arrest, some of the stolen money was recovered, and he is being charged with armed robbery and ordered held on $540 cash bail. 

Medeiros is scheduled to be arraigned in Barnstable District Court on Tuesday.

According to CBS 12 in Providence, an investigation is underway after a 78-year-old Taunton man was hit by a car yesterday. Officers responded to Oak Street just after 6 p.m. finding the victim suffering from serious injuries. The victim was reported conscious and alert prior to being transported to the hospital and is expected to recover. The 38-year-old male driver remained on scene and was cooperating with police.

It is unknown at this time whether any charges will be filed as investigations continue.

Massachusetts State Police detectives assigned to the district attorney's office, Fall River Police and Homicide Unit prosecutors are actively investigating a homicide which occurred early Sunday morning in Fall River.

Shortly after midnight on Sunday, Fall River Police were called to the Riverside Sports Bar and Restaurant on Rodman Street for a reported altercation and shooting outside the establishment.  When first responders arrived on scene, they located a male victim on the ground.

The victim, later identified as 45-year-old Jose Roberto Zelaya, was rushed to Saint Anne's Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased at 2:20 am.

Two individuals have been arrested in connection with the ongoing investigation into the altercation and homicide.  

Jose Pagan, 23, of Fall River is charged with Accessory After the Fact to an Assault and Battery by Discharge of a Firearm. 

Luis Colon, 42, of Fall River, has been charged with Assault and Battery with a Dangerous Weapon.

Both defendants will be arraigned on these charges tomorrow in Fall River District Court.

Average gasoline prices in Massachusetts have risen 7.8 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.53/g today, according to GasBuddy's survey of 2,830 stations in Massachusetts.

Prices in Massachusetts are 23.6 cents per gallon lower than a month ago and stand 36.5 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average price of diesel has increased 18.0 cents in the last week and stands at $5.04 per gallon.

According to GasBuddy price reports, the cheapest station in Massachusetts was priced at $3.07/g yesterday while the most expensive was $4.99/g, a difference of $1.92/g. The lowest price in the state yesterday was $3.07/g while the highest was $4.99/g, a difference of $1.92/g.

The national average price of gasoline has risen 13.8 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.92/g today. The national average is up 22.5 cents per gallon from a month ago and stands 67.0 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:
October 10, 2021: $3.16/g (U.S. Average: $3.25/g) October 10, 2020: $2.08/g (U.S. Average: $2.18/g) October 10, 2019: $2.52/g (U.S. Average: $2.64/g) October 10, 2018: $2.87/g (U.S. Average: $2.91/g) October 10, 2017: $2.59/g (U.S. Average: $2.46/g) October 10, 2016: $2.18/g (U.S. Average: $2.25/g) October 10, 2015: $2.18/g (U.S. Average: $2.32/g) October 10, 2014: $3.32/g (U.S. Average: $3.23/g) October 10, 2013: $3.45/g (U.S. Average: $3.34/g) October 10, 2012: $3.91/g (U.S. Average: $3.81/g)

Neighboring areas and their current gas prices:

Rhode Island- $3.46/g, up 18.1 cents per gallon from last week's $3.28/g.
Worcester- $3.50/g, up 2.7 cents per gallon from last week's $3.48/g.
Providence- $3.45/g, up 12.7 cents per gallon from last week's $3.32/g. 

"With OPEC+ deciding to cut oil production by two million barrels a day, we've seen oil prices surge 20%, which is the primary factor in the national average rising for the third straight week," said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy.

"Some of the refinery snags that have caused prices to surge in the West and Great Lakes appear to be improving, with prices in those two regions likely to inch down, even with OPEC's decision, as the drop in wholesale prices has offset the rise due to the production cut. But where gas prices didn't jump because of refinery issues, they will rise a total of 10-30 cents due to oil's rise, and some areas are certainly seeing the jump already. For now, I don't expect much improvement in prices for most of the country, with California and the Great Lakes as the exception, with downdrafts likely in the days and weeks ahead."

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 are in Cleveland Sunday as a 3 point road underdog in First Energy Field, with an over/under of 42. 

Startng QB Mac Jones did take part in limited drills during practice last week, but there is no timetable regarding his retrun from a high ankle sprain

Coverage on WSAR at 95.9 and 1480 starts at 10am Sunday with a 1pm kickoff

On Friday, October 14 at 3 p.m. on the UMass Dartmouth campus quad, the University will host the Inauguration Ceremony of Chancellor Mark A. Fuller. There outdoors ceremony will feature remarks from Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito, UMass Board of Trustees Chair Stephen Karam, UMass President Marty Meehan, Chancellor Mark Fuller, and more.

Dr. Mark Fuller was appointed Chancellor of UMass Dartmouth in August 2021. A first-generation college student himself, Dr. Fuller is a passionate advocate for public higher education and is deeply committed to UMass Dartmouth’s mission as a public research university dedicated to engaged learning, discovery and innovation. He came to the Dartmouth campus after 12 years at UMass Amherst, where he spent nine transformative years as Dean of the Isenberg School of Management, and three years as Vice Chancellor for Advancement.
 

On Monday September 26, 2022 Officer Keith Pires responded to Citizens Bank located at 501 Rodman St.
in response to a reported bank robbery.

 Upon arrival, a bank employee explained to Officer Pires that an
unknown white male, wearing a face covering approached her teller window and demanded money from
her cash drawer. The employee complied with his demands and the male fled the area on foot.

Detective Luis Vertentes of the Major Crimes Division was assigned as the lead investigator in this case.
During his investigation,

 Det. Vertentes shared photographs of the robbery suspect within the department
in hopes of identifying him. Members of the Gang Unit advised Det. Vertentes that the suspect resembled
an individual suspected of multiple bank robberies in and around the City of Boston.

 Officer Eric Pacheco
of the Special Operations Division, identified key characteristics which resembled a male with whom he
had spoken while working a detail. Officer Pacheco recalled that this male told him that Ben Affleck made
a movie (The Town) in which the main character was based on him. He also told Officer Pacheco that he
had been on an episode of Caught in Providence with Judge Caprio. Officer Pacheco was able to research
previous episodes of Caught in Providence and identify the suspect. Officer Pacheco relayed this
information to Det. Vertentes, to include the suspect’s name.

On Tuesday October 4, 2022 Det. Vertentes was able to alert his Law Enforcement partners that he had
credible information to suggest that the suspect was in route to the City of Boston.
Later that afternoon, 59-year-old William Sequeira, of Providence, RI was arrested in Boston, by members
of the FBI Boston’s Violent Crimes Task Force for an attempted unarmed robbery. Sequiera will also be
facing criminal charges stemming from his involvement in the September 26th robbery of Citizens Bank in
Fall River. 
 

“The sheltering operation at JBCC for the Venezuelan migrants has ended, with all individuals transitioning into alternative housing or leaving the Commonwealth for opportunities in other states. 

The Administration is grateful for the collaborative efforts between several state agencies and non-profit providers to ensure each individual received necessary humanitarian resources and access to new housing options.” – EOPSS spokesperson.

BOSTON – With several recent precipitation events in September that directly benefited Massachusetts’ hydrological systems, Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Beth Card today announced that drought conditions have improved in all regions of the state, and made the following drought declarations: the Western Region has been upgraded to Level 0-Normal Conditions; the Connecticut River Valley, Central Region, and Southeast Regions have been upgraded to Level 1-Mild Drought; and, the Northeast and Cape Cod Regions have been upgraded and will join the Islands Region as a Level 2-Significant Drought.

As outlined in the Massachusetts Drought Management Plan, a Level 1-Mild Drought warrants detailed monitoring of drought conditions, close coordination among state and federal agencies, and technical outreach and assistance to the affected municipalities. Additionally, a Level 2-Significant Drought 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.
 
 

The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) today released a Scoping Survey for companies intending to apply for a Category 1, Category 2, or Category 3 sports wagering operator license or to be vendors to those potential licensees.     
  
In August, the MGC released a notice of intent following a sports wagering bill being signed into law to begin to understand the landscape of interest of potential sports wagering operators. Since that time, the MGC has held a number of public meetings on the issue of sports wagering and heard from many potential sports wagering operators.  
  
Ahead of an application and associated $200,000 application fee being due, the MGC is requiring companies applying for a sports wagering operator license and vendors to submit a Scoping Survey. This survey seeks specific company information and will provide the MGC with valuable information ahead of full applications being due.      
  
The Scoping Survey is a required as part of a sports wagering application. The document can be accessed by visiting MassGaming.com and is due back to the MGC by 5pm on October 17th.   
 

Residents urged to continue to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites

BOSTON (October 7, 2022) – The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today announced the sixth human case of West Nile virus (WNV) in the state this year. The individual is a male in his 60s who was likely exposed to the virus in Middlesex 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. Risk from mosquito-borne disease will continue until the first hard frost.
 

BOSTON – A Westfield woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury in connection with a hoax bomb threat made against Boston Children’s Hospital.

Catherine Leavy, 37, was indicted on one count of making a false bomb threat and one count of intentionally conveying false or misleading information that a bomb was on the way to Boston Children’s Hospital. Leavy was previously arrested and charged by criminal complaint on Sept. 15, 2022 with one count of explosive materials - willfully making a false bomb threat. She will appear in federal court at a later date.

According to the charging documents, in August 2022, 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. 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 the Hospital. Law enforcement obtained subscriber and call detail records and location information for the phone number that called in the bomb threat. According to court documents, the phone number was subscribed in Leavy’s name and cell tower data indicated the phone was nearby Leavy’s residence at the time the bomb threat was made.

During a search of Leavy’s residence on Sept. 15, 2022, the phone allegedly used to make the threat from Leavy’s residence was recovered.

The charge of making a false bomb threat provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of intentionally conveying false or misleading information provides for a sentence of up to five 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. 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 New England Patriots (1-3) and the Detroit Lions (1-3) announce the following player injuries and practice participation.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2022

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (1-3)

OUT
DL Lawrence Guy - Shoulder (DNP)
DL DaMarcus Mitchell - Concussion (DNP)

DOUBTFUL
QB Mac Jones - Ankle (LP)
TE Jonnu Smith - Ankle (LP)

QUESTIONABLE
S Kyle Dugger - Knee (LP)
LB Raekwon McMillan - Thumb (LP)
WR Jakobi Meyers, Knee (LP)
CB Jalen Mills, Hamstring (DNP)
S Adrian Phillips - Ribs (LP)
OT Isaiah Wynn - Hip (LP)

DETROIT LIONS (1-3)

OUT

WR Quintez Cephus - Foot (DNP)
WR DJ Chark - Ankle (DNP)
DL John Cominsky - Wrist (DNP)
DE Charles Harris - Groin (DNP)
T Matt Nelson - Calf (DNP)
RB D'Andre Swift - Shoulder / Ankle (DNP)

DOUBTFUL
No Players Listed.

QUESTIONABLE
G Kayode Awosika - Hamstring (LP)
LB Chris Board - Knee (LP)
C Evan Brown - Ankle (LP)
G Jonah Jackson - Finger (FP)
WR Josh Reynolds - Ankle (LP)
WR Amon-Ra St. Brown - Ankle (LP)

The New England Patriots announced that they have placed QB Brian Hoyer on injured reserve.

Hoyer, 36, started last week at Green Bay before leaving the game in the first quarter.

The 6-foot-2, 216-pounder is in his 14th NFL season, including his third stint with New England after originally joining the team as a rookie free agent out of Michigan in 2009

. He has also spent time with Pittsburgh, Arizona, Cleveland, Houston, Chicago, San Francisco and Indianapolis.

According to CBS 12 in Providence, Police arrested three people in connection with a nationwide investigation into a so-called “grandparent scam.” DetectIves received a tip late last month that numerous packages containing thousands of dollars in cash were en route to Attleboro. The address the scammers provided one of the victims was traced back to a vacant home in Attleboro. Police said within minutes of the delivery, a man later identified as 23-year-old Ransel Starlin Tavares Jiminez, pulled up and collected the package from the front doorstep. Tavares Jiminez, of Bronx, New York, was immediately taken into custody and charged with receiving stolen property and attempting to commit larceny of OVER $1,200. When the decoy package was delivered roughly an hour later, detectives saw two women pull up in front of the home. The woman who collected the package, identified by police as 55-year-old Rosa Maria Burgos Liz, was immediately taken into custody as well as the driver identified as 46-year-old Raquel Julissa Mata Liz, attempting to take off in the car. In total, detectives were able to recover roughly $19,000 in cash for the elderly victims.

Tavares Jiminez, Burgos Liz and Mata Liz all pleaded not guilty during their arraignments Wednesday.

According to NBC 10 in Providence, Care New England has named a new chief executive officer. Dr. Michael Wagner will take the SEAT as president and CEO of the hospital network on December 1. Care New England said Wagner most recently served as chief physician executive for Tufts Medicine. Current president and CEO of Care New England, Dr. James Fanale, will retire in December and has served for roughly five years. 

Care New England operates Butler, Kent and Women & Infants hospitals.

Most Rehoboth Residents Unaffected by National Grid Winter Rate Increase

Rehoboth residents and businesses enrolled in the Rehoboth Community Electricity Aggregation (CEA) Program will not be impacted by the rate hike recently announced by National Grid. Rehoboth CEA offers electricity rates that are fixed and will not change through December 2023.

The vast majority of Rehoboth households already participate in the Rehoboth CEA Program. 

Rehoboth residents and businesses may confirm that they are enrolled in the Rehoboth Community Electricity Aggregation Program by looking at the Supply Services Section of a recent National Grid electric bill. If it says “Supplier: Constellation NewEnergy (Rehoboth Agg)”, then that account is enrolled. If it says something else, such as Basic Service Fixed, or names a supplier other than Constellation, then that account is not enrolled.

If you are not a current participant in the Program, you may go to masscea.com/rehoboth/ to enroll today! 

New Bedford, Massachusetts – The City of New Bedford’s Department of City Planning, in collaboration with New Bedford Creative, announces a Call for Artists.

The call is seeking artist proposals for temporary public artwork to be located at the entrance to the New Bedford Cove Walk (1087 Cove Road) in 2023. 

A $10,000 budget commission for the temporary art is made possible through a city grant funded by the New England Foundation for the Arts (NEFA), Making it Public Program.

Earlier this year the City and New Bedford Creative distributed a survey to seek community feedback about the potential location and theme of the project to ensure that they align with the interests of the community. The Cove Walk entrance and the theme of “Secrets” were chosen. 

The Cove Walk is a 5,550 ft long walking path situated on top of the City’s hurricane barrier on the western side of the southern peninsula, overlooking Clark’s Cove. The Cove Walk connects to the Harbor Walk and the more comprehensive Blue Lane which runs along the city’s waterfront. 

The Cove Walk is a popular destination and recreational asset offering panoramic water views for runners, cyclists, dog walkers, families with strollers, and visitors to the city.

The theme for the temporary art, “Secrets” is a concept which explores how or if public spaces can be a conduit for surfacing and sharing secrets that can connect us.  It can also examine how events that happen, or ideas formed in secret affect public spaces.  

This includes personal secrets, ignored or forgotten cultural histories, hidden talents or spaces, or anything that lies beneath the surface of the everyday public sphere. Art proposals in any medium are welcome. 

This project is open to artists, and or collaborative artist team with special consideration provided to New Bedford practicing artists.

The City of New Bedford is committed to building a public art collection that represents artists from a broad diversity of race, color, creed, gender, gender variance, sexual orientation, national origin, age, religion, marital status, political opinion or affiliation, and mental or physical disability. The selection panel is especially interested in artists who can demonstrate a deep understanding of the community, its users and the neighborhood, as well as the area’s history and urban landscape and make that connection to the selected theme.

This Call for Artists expands the City’s commitment to expand public art and utilize it as a tool for placemaking and enhancing the city’s identity as a cultural community while supporting the operating capacity of working artists. 

More information and a link to the application form can be found at: https://forms.gle/jvwjJnZG71Chxa9R7 

BOSTON, MA- For the second time in as many state election cycles, the Red Sox have partnered with the City of Boston to host early voting at Fenway Park on Saturday, October 29, and Sunday, October 30, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Boston residents may access the ballpark using the Gate A entrance located on Jersey Street. Voters will cast their ballots in the Third Base Concourse and will have an opportunity to view the field before they exit onto Lansdowne Street. Fenway Park will be a city-wide polling location with ballots for every precinct.

Voters who reside outside the city limits will not be permitted to vote at the ballpark.

Fenway Park was also used as a site for COVID-19 vaccine shots in 2020. 

BOSTON, MA—The Boston Red Sox today claimed right-handed pitcher Easton McGee off waivers from the Tampa Bay Rays. The Red Sox’ 40-man roster is now at 40.

Chief Baseball Officer Chaim Bloom made the announcement.

McGee, 24, has pitched in one game with the Rays this season, making his Major League debut on October 2 against the Houston Astros and allowing one unearned run in 3.0 innings of relief.

Selected by Tampa Bay in the fourth round of the 2016 First-Year Player Draft, the right-hander spent most of the 2022 season with Triple-A Durham, making 27 appearances (22 starts) and going 6-9 with a 5.43 ERA (65 ER/107.2 IP), 80 strikeouts, and 20 walks. A native of Hopkinsville, KY, McGee was voted as having the best control in the Triple-A International League in _Baseball America_’s “Best Tools” survey, as voted on by league managers.

According to NBC 10 in Providence, a student was shot outside of a Boston high school yesterday morning. The teenager was shot on the grounds of Jeremiah E. Burke High School around 9:30 a.m., prompting the school to go into lockdown as the student is now in stable condition. Officials said an individual believed to be a student was identified as the shooter and subsequently arrested and will appear in juvenile court. A search of the area led to the recovery of a gun and stated the investigation is ongoing.

The cause of a fire that left an elderly woman badly injured and a New Bedford firefighter hurt has been deemed accidental. According to CBS 12 in Providence, firefighters rushed to the Tremont Street home Monday morning to find flames shooting from the windows on the third floor. New Bedford Fire Chief Scott Kruger said three people were rescued from the building, including an elderly woman who’s wheelchair-bound. In a social media post, the department said Lt. Steven Torres “was able to shield the elderly victim with his protective gear during the rescue.” The department hasn’t identified the firefighter that was injured, however, Firematic Supply Company said in a social media post that Torres suffered “burns to his neck.” The elderly woman was rushed to the hospital in serious condition while two other men were also rescued from the burning building, but were not injured.

While the fire does not appear to be suspicious, according to Kruger, the cause remains under investigation.

PROVIDENCE, R.I., September [27], 2022  /PRNewswire/ - Bally's Corporation (NYSE: BALY) today announced its
completion of the previously announced acquisition of the Tropicana Las Vegas with Gaming & Leisure Properties,
Inc. ("GLPI") and PENN Entertainment, Inc. (“PENN”).
Bally's, GLPI and PENN completed the transaction relating to the acquisition of the non-land assets of the Tropicana
Las Vegas for a cash purchase price of $148 million, payable to GLPI. Bally's will lease the land underlying the
Tropicana property from GLPI for an initial term of 50 years at annual rent of $10.5 million.
The Tropicana Las Vegas Hotel and Casino is located in Las Vegas, Nevada on a 35-acre parcel on the corner of
Tropicana Boulevard and Las Vegas Boulevard. It includes 1,470 guest rooms, 50,000 square feet of casino space
with 1,000 gaming positions, a 1,200-seat performance theater and 100,000 square feet of convention and meeting
space.
About Bally’s Corporation
Bally's Corporation is a global casino-entertainment company with a growing omni-channel presence of Online
Sports Betting and iGaming oerings. It currently owns and manages 15 casinos across 10 states, a horse racetrack
in Colorado and has access to OSB licenses in 18 states. It also owns Bally’s Interactive International, formerly
Gamesys Group, a leading, global, online gaming operator, Bally Bet, a rst-in-class sports betting platform, Monkey
Knife Fight, the fastest growing daily fantasy sports site in North America, Live at The Bike, the world’s largest
running poker livestream, SportCaller, a leading, global B2B free-to-play game provider, and Telescope Inc., a
leading provider of real-time fan engagement solutions.
1
With 10,500 employees, the Company's casino operations include approximately 15,000 slot machines, 500 table
games and 5,300 hotel rooms. Upon completing the construction of a temporary casino facility in Chicago, IL and a
land-based casino near the Nittany Mall in State College, PA, Bally's will own and manage 17 casinos across 11
states. Its shares trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "BALY".

BOSTON – A Texas man has been arrested and charged with allegedly staging a hoax explosion at Northeastern University in Boston in September 2022 and providing law enforcement with materially false and misleading information about the incident.

Jason Duhaime, 45, of San Antonio, was charged with one count of intentionally conveying false and misleading information related to an explosive device and one count of making materially false statements to a federal law enforcement agent. Duhaime was arrested this morning in the Western District of Texas and will appear in federal court in Boston at a later date.

According to the charging documents, Duhaime, who was at the time employed as the New Technology Manager and Director of the Immersive Media Lab (Lab) at Northeastern University, placed a 911 call at approximately 7 p.m. on Sept. 13, 2022, to report that he was injured by “sharp” objects expelled from a plastic case he opened inside the Lab that evening. Specifically, it is alleged that Duhaime told the 911 operator that he and a Northeastern student who was working in the Lab had collected several packages from a mail area earlier that evening and brought them into the Lab. Among the packages were two “Pelican” cases, which Duhaime brought into a storage closet inside the Lab. Duhaime allegedly told the 911 operator that when he opened one of the cases inside the closet, “very sharp” objects flew out of the case and under his shirt sleeves, causing injuries to his arms. It is further alleged that Duhaime also reported that the case contained an anonymous “violent note” directed at the Lab.

The reports and concern about the second unopened “Pelican” case triggered a significant law enforcement response that included, among other things, the assistance of two law enforcement bomb squads, the evacuation of a large portion of Northeastern’s Boston campus. Numerous campus-wide alerts were issued by the Northeastern University Police Department – one of which described an “explosion.”

According to court documents unsealed today, responding local and federal law enforcement observed that the case described by Duhaime to the 911 operator was empty and undamaged. Neither the case nor the letter that Duhaime said was inside the case showed any indication of having been exposed to a forceful or explosive discharge of any type or magnitude. Additionally, the storage closet appeared normal and bomb technicians did not observe any small objects or suspicious debris on the floor or elsewhere.

During subsequent interviews with law enforcement, Duhaime allegedly provided statements about the incident that were consistent with his report to the 911 operator. He expressly denied fabricating his story about the case, the letter and his injuries.

Forensic analysis of one of the computers seized during a Sept. 14, 2022 search of Duhaime’s office at Northeastern University allegedly revealed a word-for-word electronic copy of the letter stored in a backup folder. According to court documents, the metadata associated with this file reflected a “Created Date/Time” of Sept. 13, 2022, at 2:57 p.m. and a “Last Printed Date/Time” of Sept. 13, 2022, at 4:02 p.m.

The charges of intentionally conveying false and misleading information related to an explosive device and making materially false statements to a federal law enforcement agent each provide for a sentence of up to five years in prison, up to 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; Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox; and Michael A. Davis, Vice President of Campus Security and Chief of Police at Northeastern University made the announcement today. This investigation was conducted by the Boston Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) in cooperation with the Northeastern University Police Department. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Field Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason A. Casey of Rollins’ National Security Unit is 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.

As the colder weather approaches, many may think it is too early still to worry about snowfall, but the MassDOT is getting ready early rather than later. According to CBS 12 in Providence, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation announced yesterday that it is hiring vendors for snow and ice removal with a focus specifically looking for on-call plow operators. Openings are available statewide for anyone looking to make some extra money this winter season.

Visit MassDOT’s website to learn more about the job and how to apply.

The city’s largest cemetery, Oak Grove is home to tens of thousands of those connected to Fall River that have been buried there since 1855 as the location is known for being on the National Register of Historic Places,  where the city fathers, notable natives, infamous public figures, artists, housewives, bankers, teachers, sons and daughters lay to rest. According to the digital edition of The Fall River Herald News, it is also a limited area of land that will, one day, run out of space. Chris Parayno, Fall River's director of Cemeteries and Trees,  is keeping it alive as long as possible with a million-dollar expansion, new options including places for cremation and possibly more burial spaces in the historic section, and now a master plan to ensure its future for many decades to come. The Board of Park Commissioners recently approved the spending of $52,000 to have consultants BSC Group develop a master plan. The idea is to get a comprehensive look at all the cemetery’s resources, from acreage, manpower to  grass seed.

Campus civic engagement leaders kick off National Voter Education Week with #UMassVotes summit hosted by UMass President Marty Meehan 

BOSTON – To kick off National Voter Education Week, the five UMass student trustees called on their 72,000-plus peers across the UMass system to make sure they are registered and have a plan to vote in the upcoming election.

The student trustees – Adam Lechowicz (UMass Amherst), Michael Dooley (UMass Boston), Maxwell White (UMass Dartmouth), Mina Lam (UMass Lowell), and Bethany Berry (UMass Chan Medical) – issued the following statement:

“Young people have been the catalysts for real change here in America and around the world, and the most effective way that we can create change is to cast an informed vote. As the elected representatives of more than 72,000 students from across the five UMass campuses, we endorse the non-partisan #UMassVotes initiative and urge students to take action now to ensure that they know how, where and when to vote this fall. Every student should make a plan to vote in November in person or by mail. Go to massachusetts.edu/umass-votes for more information.”

The statement followed a voter engagement summit held today, which was hosted by UMass President Marty Meehan.  

“Preparing our students for lives of active, informed citizenship is a cornerstone of the UMass mission,” President Meehan said. “Informed voting remains the purest, most powerful form of individual civic engagement. It is clear from the work being done on our campuses that UMass students recognize that voting is a right and an obligation that we cannot afford to take for granted.”

The summit was held to discuss current efforts and share best practices for non-partisan student voter registration and engagement. The event was part of the #UMassVotes initiative to amplify campus efforts in collaboration with the national ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge.

The summit featured students sharing voter engagement efforts and additional ideas; a representative from the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge offering a national perspective on student voter engagement; and two polling experts from the Amherst and Lowell campuses sharing data about youth voting trends. 

About the #UMassVotes Campaign 

The #UMassVotes initiative was first launched in 2020, following President Meehan signing onto the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge, a nonpartisan campaign aimed at registering 100 percent of college students in the United States to vote. President Meehan was named to the ALL IN Higher Education Presidents Council earlier this year.

In June of 2022, President Meehan and the five UMass chancellors expanded on that commitment and signed onto ALL IN’s Presidents’ Commitment, which calls on higher education leaders to recognize the responsibility colleges and universities have to “prepare students to become responsible and engaged participants in our democracy.” 

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he Rehoboth Police Department is taking back unwanted prescription drugs Saturday October 29, 2022 

On Saturday, October 29th, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the Rehoboth Police Department and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration will be giving the public an opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs.

 Bring your medications for disposal to the Rehoboth Police Department located at 334 Anwan Street. (We cannot accept liquids, needles or sharps, only pills or patches.) The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.

For more information about the event and to locate a take back location near you go to www.DEATakeBack.com. 

The New England Patriots are 2.5 favorites versus the Detroit Lions Sunday on the Patriots Radio Network on 95.9 and 1480, with pre game at 10am and a kickoff at 1pm from Gillette Stadium. 

The Patriots will likely make a game time decision on their starting quarterback, as Mac Jones remains in the Concussion Protocol. 

According to CBS 12 in Providence, police arrested a Dartmouth man accused of robbing a bank in New Bedford earlier this week. The 47 year old Mark Demelo was taken into custody just hours after walking into the Taunton Federal Credit Union on Rockdale Avenue Monday where Demelo walked up to a teller inside the bank and demanded money, leaving the bank with the cash and took off running. Investigators were able to identify Demelo as the suspect and he was taken into custody in Dartmouth later that same day.

Demelo was charged with unarmed robbery, resisting arrest, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, assault and battery on a police officer and putting fear in a person for stealing. Police stated Demelo has an extensive history that includes previous convictions for similar offenses.

According to CBS 12 in Providence, A Massachusetts man suspected of killing his mother on Cape Cod over the weekend has died. The 34 year old Adam Howe suffered a “medical emergency” in his cell at the Ash Street Jail in New Bedford late Sunday night AND was rushed to the hospital where he was pronounced dead. Authorities responded to a well-being check and a separate report of a fire around 9:30 p.m. Friday in Turo, Massachusetts, found Howe standing in the front yard of a home next to a fire that officials soon discovered was a burning body. Howe ran into the house and locked the door before the Cape Cod Regional SWAT team later entered and arrested him. Police identified the body as his mother, 70-year-old Susan Howe.

Massachusetts State Police are investigating his death.