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Operation Diesel Snags 30 in Taunton
20 More Individuals to be Charged in Multi-Agency Illegal Drug Investigation

Taunton, MA - District Attorney Sam Sutter announced that a multi-agency large-scale illegal drug investigation dubbed "Operation Diesel" resulted in the arrest of 30 individuals in the City of Taunton over two days. In total, more than 50 people have been or will be charged as a result of this joint operation.

The Massachusetts State Police Unit assigned to District Attorney Sutter's office led this year-long investigation into illegal narcotics distribution in the Fairfax Gardens housing complex on Dewert Avenue in Taunton.  District Attorney Sutter's office was assisted by numerous local, state and federal partners including the Taunton Police; The Raynham Police; State Police Units assigned to the Plymouth County, Suffolk County, and Cape and Islands District Attorneys' Offices; the State Police Special Tactical Operations Unit; the State Police Violent Fugitive Apprehension Squad; various State Police Gang Units; the State Police D-Troop CAT Team; the State Police Air Wing; the Massachusetts State Police Fusion Center; the New England State Police Information Network and a federal task force known as the HITDA Group.

District Attorney Sam Sutter

The investigation was coordinated by District Attorney Sutter's Chief of Drug Prosecutions, Assistant District Attorney Stephen Butts.

The investigation was initiated in 2009 when the State Police Unit assigned to District Attorney Sam Sutter's Office investigated a fatal drug overdose of a Taunton man. That investigation lead to a large-scale narcotics investigation into the distribution, storage and trafficking of illegal narcotics within the Fairfax Gardens Housing Complex.  Fairfax Gardens is known on the street as "Dewert".  The main narcotic being sold within "Dewert" is heroin, however this investigation did not limit itself to just the heroin trade.

As the investigation continued, it grew in scale to include other areas of Taunton, including the Paul Bunker Housing Complex.

As a result of this investigation, there have been approximately 51 defendants charged with offenses including trafficking in heroin, which ranged in weights of over 14 grams up to 144 grams. There have also been numerous crack cocaine distribution charges levied against defendants targeted in this operation.  There have been 10 individuals charged who were directly indicted in the Superior Court, along with another 24 persons charged and arrest warrants issued for District Court.  An additional 17 defendants have either already been arrested or are waiting to be summonsed to court on various narcotics and motor vehicle charges. In addition to the numerous arrests, investigators seized two motor vehicles and a motorcycle, which are believed to have been used in furtherance of said illegal activities or purchased with illegal drug proceeds.  Cash believed to be profits from the illegal drug trade and properties have also been seized as a result of this operation.

The success of this operation could not have been achieved without the assistance and cooperation of numerous law enforcement groups.

As the operation remains ongoing, no further information can be revealed at this time. A list of the individuals arrested during yesterday's portion of the operation is attached to this e-mail.

Notable Quotes

"These 51 arrests and indictments were the result of a year-long investigation, which involved cooperation and collaboration between prosecutors from my office, City of Taunton detectives, and State Police detectives," said Bristol County District Attorney Sam Sutter.  "Those individuals engaged in illegal drug dealing in Bristol County should know that all of us in law enforcement are committed to finding out whom each and every one of you are, building cases against you and then getting you arrested and convicted."

"I want to applaud the efforts of District Attorney Sam Sutter, Taunton Police Chief Edward Walsh and the members of the State Police Unit for their extraordinary efforts in leading the task force to take the drug dealers off our city streets," said Taunton Mayor Charles Crowley. "A successful operation like this requires teamwork and the citizens of my community are grateful for the team effort displayed during Operation Diesel."

"This operation reflects the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies working in true partnership to address issues of crime in the community," said Taunton Police Chief Edward James Walsh.  "In a time of diminishing resources, we were able to leverage assets from both agencies to achieve a common goal.  Hopefully this will be one of many future successful collaborations."

"Police-wise it is extremely important to routinely be breaking up these criminal networks and conspiracies, of equal importance is the leadership shown by the District Attorney's Office in creating a professional collaborative climate where all of the state, local and county law enforcement agencies can cooperate and work together to make our communities a safer and a better place to live. Every one of our communities pays a price for these problems, with house break, robberies, thefts, and prostitution. We all have to work together to keep it under control," Raynham Police Chief Louis Pacheco said. "In these tough economic times it is great seeing law enforcement working together helping each other."

Operation Diesel Arrests from July 21

Edgard Quinones-Ortiz, age 20, of 20 Meadow Street, distribution of a Class A drug.

Tomas Ortiz, age 21, of 8 Earl Street, possession of a Class A drug with will to distribute.

Alexander Torres, age 37, of 403 Washington Street, distribution of a Class A drug.

Damian Carrasquillo, age 21, of 24 Second Street, conspiracy to violate drug law.

Michael Almodovar, age 17, of 53 Paul Bunker Drive, distribution of a Class A drug.

Alonzo Lopes, age 21, of 155 Oak Street, distribution of a Class B drug.

Darius Jones, age 17, of 1 Kilmer Avenue, distribution of a counterfeit drug.

Samantha Silva, age 20, of 22 Church Street, conspiracy to violate drug law.

Adam Johnson, age 25, of 82 Cohannet Street, distribution of a Class A drug.

Tiffany Collazo, age 21, of 206 School Street, conspiracy to violate drug law.

Juan Padua Jr., age 18, of 42.5 Cottage Street, distribution of a Class A drug.

Daryl Perkins, age 32, of 82 Cohannet Street, conspiracy to violate drug law.

Kristen Burke, age 26, of 48 Dewert Avenue, trafficking, manufacturing and distributing a Class A drug.

Tonya Ferguson, age 39, of 7 Atwood Street, distribution of a Class B drug.

Ralph Brown, age 36, of 89 Ashland Street, distribution of a Class B drug.

Maynard Davis, age 33, of 208 Bay Street, distributing cocaine.

Westley Amador-Cintron, age 20, of 50 Dewert Avenue, trafficking cocaine, conspiracy to violate drug law and drug violation near a school or park.

Raul J. Padua, age 29, of 128 Dewert Avenue, distribution of a Class A drug.

Rolando Miranda, age 24, of 126 Dewert Avenue, malicious destruction of over 250 dollars worth of property.

16-year-old juvenile male, distribution of a Class A drug.

Shawn Oller, age 34, of 68 Broadway, operating a motor vehicle with a suspended license.

Terrence Wrightington, age 21, of 2 Harrison Street, distribution of a Class A drug.

Deion McCassie, age 20, of 8 Silver Street, conspiracy to violate drug law.

Xavier Ramos, age 20, of 26 Talbot Avenue, distribution of a Class A drug.

Peter Hicks, age 21, of 89 Dewert Avenue, distribution of a Class A drug.

Anthony Rezendes, age 50, of 43 Winthrop Street, distributing cocaine.

Jeffrey Bird, age 30, of 57 Winthrop Street, distributing cocaine.

Trevor R. Heggs, age 22, of 30 Newcomb Place, distributing cocaine.

Jose Avelino, age 18, of 21 Godfrey Street, conspiracy to violate drug law.

Epilepsy Foundation New England Donation Center

As of October 2009, the Epilepsy Foundation New England Donation Center (EFNEDC) opened in Wilmington, MA. The Clothing Donation Program helps divert discarded clothing from landfills, making it convenient for the community to recycle their used clothing, while at the same time, providing an additional source of funding for our programs and services. All proceeds from the Epilepsy Foundation New England Donation Center go toward research in finding a cure for epilepsy, new medications, support groups, an annual camp "Camp Wee-Kan-Tu" held in Duxbury, MA for kids/teens, job placement, etc.

On June 12, 2010, the Epilepsy Foundation New England Donation Center welcomed their newest Attended Donation Site to Taunton, MA, located at 306 Winthrop St., within the Winthrop Park Place Plaza. The Donation Site is open 7 days a week, Monday - Friday 7am - 7 pm, Saturday 7am - 5pm, and Sunday 10am- 3pm. This is our first and only POD location as of right now. We hope for many more in the future.

(left to right): Bill Braunlich (President), Ken Newby (Donor), Angelo Febbo (Director of Operations), Christina Macia (Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator), Abigail Hosle (Donation Site Attendant), Jennifer Andrade (Donation Site Attendant)

You can now schedule a pickup right from your computer. Feel free to schedule online at www.donatenewengland.org.

New Date Set for Women's Golf Outing

The Taunton Area Chamber of Commerce 8^th Annual Women’s Golf Outing has been rescheduled for Friday, August 13, 2010. It will be held at The Back Nine Club, 17 Heritage Hill Drive, Lakeville.

Registration begins at 7:45 a.m. The course will be played in a scramble format, which begins at 8:30 a.m. The cost is $100 per player or $360 per foursome and includes green fees, ½ cart, breakfast, and lunch. You can sign up as a single, twosome, threesome, or foursome. There will be prizes on specific holes and also raffle drawings. The golf outing is a great opportunity to have fun, unwind, and network.

If you choose not to golf, you can also contribute by sponsoring a hole, donating a prize item or gift certificate, or providing items for the players’ goody bags. For more information or to register, please contact the Chamber at 508-824-4068.

Eagle Court of Honor Ceremony

Taunton, MA - State Senator Marc R. Pacheco (D-Taunton) recently attended an Eagle Court of Honor Ceremony for two scouts. Zachary Wirth and Jonathan Souza both from Taunton received the rank of Eagle Scout today as they were joined by family and friends at the St. Mary Church in Norton.

Zachary Wirth, who began his scouting career in 1999, has received numerous awards and recognition for his hard work over the last eleven years. He has received the rank of Tenderfoot, Star and the scout’s highest rank, the Arrow of Light. Zachary has been active in his troop, where he has attended many national events and has served within his community, particularly at the St. Vincent De Paul food distribution center in Taunton.

For Zachary’s Eagle project he organized and led a service project to install a new information board at the Boyden Wildlife Refuge in Taunton. The project consisted of dismantling and removing the old information board, designed and installed the new information board with a new Plexiglas window to protect the posted notices from weather. The new board was cemented into the ground and the area around it was graded and mulched.

Jonathan Souza, who also began his scouting career in 1999, has been a model scout throughout his eleven years in the troop. He has been an Honors student, active volunteer in his community and a leader in his troop. Jonathan has received a total of 40 merit badges, the rank of Tenderfoot, Star and the scout’s highest rank, the Arrow of Light. He too has attended many national events and has served within his community, specifically at the St. Vincent De Paul food distribution center in Taunton. His Eagle project was an organized effort where he led a service project that restored the Knapp family burying ground which dates back to 1779, in Taunton. The project consisted of removing rotten trees and brush and allowing access to the headstones and creating a path inside the burial grounds. In addition, the project washed headstones and recognized Civil War veteran’s with a marker and a flag.

“I’m truly honored to have joined these two outstanding young men as they received the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout, Said Senator Pacheco.” “Both of them have been active in their communities and embody everything an Eagle Scout should be. Its young people like them that will continue to change our community for the better and it was my honor being with them today.”

Taunton Students Receive Scholarships

Morton Federal Credit Union recently awarded three $1,000 scholarships to local high school seniors that will attend college in the fall. The recipients were Katherine Hackett, and Katelyn M. Winslow, both from Taunton High School and Jillian Perry from Apponequet Regional High School.

For more than ten years, Morton Federal Credit Union has awarded over $35,000 in scholarships to Taunton area students. Scholarships are available to any credit union member, and any member of their immediate family, pursuing secondary education.

(Left to Right) Katherine Hackett; Credit Union Board member Denise Turner; Katelyn Winslow

(Left to Right) Credit Union Board member Denise Turner; Jillian Perry

Taunton City Councilor Arrested In Brockton Sex Sting
WCVB Channel 5 Cameras Capture Arrest on Video

Taunton City Councilor Dan Barbour

see arrest footage here

TEACHER RECOGNITION & SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS BREAKFAST

Taunton, MA - The Taunton Area Chamber of Commerce will be holding its 18^th Annual Teacher Recognition and Scholarship Awards Breakfast on Friday, May 28, 2010 at Benjamin’s Restaurant at 8:00 a.m. The breakfast is sponsored by The Rotary Club of Taunton and Farrell Backlund Insurance Agency. The Taunton Chamber will recognize local educators who have been nominated for their outstanding performance. We encourage you to attend this event and show your appreciation to teachers for all of their hard work in shaping our children’s future. The 24^th Annual Charles E. Volkmann Scholarship Awards will also be presented.

The cost to attend the breakfast is $20 for Chamber Members and $30 for Non-Members. For more information or to register, call the Taunton Chamber at 508-824-4068.

Disaster Officials Offer Tips to Speed Assistance

Massachusetts' Top Youth Volunteer Selected in 15th Annual National Awards Program
East Taunton student earns $1,000 award, engraved medallion, and a trip to nation’s capital

BOSTON, Mass. – Shannon Smith, 16, of East Taunton was recently named Massachusetts’ top youth volunteer for 2010 by The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, a nationwide program honoring young people for outstanding acts of volunteerism. The awards program, now in its 15th year, is conducted by Prudential Financial in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).

Shannon was nominated by Taunton High School in Taunton, MA. As a State Honoree, she will receive $1,000, an engraved silver medallion, and an all-expense-paid trip in early May to Washington, D.C., where she will join the top two honorees from each of the other states and the District of Columbia for several days of national recognition events. Ten of them will be named America’s top youth volunteers for 2010 at that time.

Shannon, a junior at Taunton High School, developed and implemented a youth program for the Eastern New England Division of the American Diabetes Association (ADA) to help diabetic young people and those around them understand and cope with the disease. Shannon was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2004. "I felt alone and frustrated," she said. But when she went to an ADA walk in Boston a few years later, she realized she was not alone, and resolved to help other young diabetics learn that lesson. "I was tired of sitting back and wanted to make a difference so others like me wouldn’t have to be alone or face the discrimination I have had to face," she said.

Shannon contacted the ADA and proposed a youth program. Officials there agreed and, after securing funding, hired a full-time staff member to work with Shannon. With Shannon serving as Senior Youth Leader, they have organized monthly activities for youth with diabetes, started a mentoring program, established a support group for siblings of diabetics, and conducted numerous education and awareness programs for parents, schools, and business organizations. Shannon also leads a team that has raised more than $20,000 for an annual ADA walk, seeks funding from corporations and small businesses, and recruits other teens to be effective leaders and diabetes spokespeople in their communities. "I did not expect that the relationships and bonds I would form with other youths would impact me the way they have," said Shannon. "It has given me a whole new outlook on life."

"People as caring and committed as these young students are critical to the future of our neighborhoods, our cities and our nation," said John R. Strangfeld, chairman and CEO of Prudential Financial. "By recognizing these honorees, we hope to encourage other young people – our future leaders – and all Americans to think more about the value and importance of volunteering in their communities."

"The young people recognized by the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards demonstrate an enormous capacity for giving and reaching out to those in need," said Gerald N. Tirozzi, executive director of the National Association of Secondary School Principals. "NASSP is proud to honor these student leaders because they are wonderful examples of the high caliber of young people in our nation’s schools today."

23 Winnecunnet Drive Unit 23, Norton, MA

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Winnecunnet Shores

Front door leads into an open foyer. Lots of windows gives this home a light & bright atmosphere. Step down living room w/ sliders looking out to the private wooded back yd. Enjoy this beautiful setting from the back deck. Newer kitchen has plenty of counter space & storage is no problem w/great cabinets & pantry. 2 spacious bedrooms, updated baths, 2nd floor laundry & a 1 c garage only proves this is like no other condo. So clean & tastefully decorated you need to do nothing BUT MOVE IN.

PRESENTATION ON EARLY PORTUGUESE EXPLORERS AT
OLD COLONY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Taunton, MA – November 18, 2009 – The November meeting of the Old Colony Historical Society will explore a local legend: Dighton Rock.  Dr. Manuel Luciano da Silva will make his presentation at the Society's Historical Hall, 66 Church Green in Taunton, on Thursday evening, November 19, at 7:00 p.m.  The program is free and open to the public.

The Dighton Rock, a large glacial boulder from the Taunton River in Berkley, has numerous carvings in its sandstone surface that have invited speculation for ages.  There are several theories about the origins of these petroglyphs and Dr. Manuel Luciano da Silva has developed one of the strongest arguments that early Portuguese explorers carved some of the symbols.  Dr. da Silva, a physician, has applied scientific methods to the study of Dighton Rock.  His illustrated presentation will show his analysis of the petroglyphs and their similarities to symbols used by 16th century Portuguese navigators.  He will recount the proud history of Portugal as a center of global exploration dating from 1412 when Prince Henry the Navigator founded his famous school for mariners in Sagres, Portugal.

Dr. da Silva's theory of the origins of the Dighton Rock petroglyphs builds on that of Edmund Burke Delabarre, a professor of psychology at Brown University.  Through careful study and the use of skillful lighting and photography in 1918, Professor Delabarre was the first to see a date, a name and symbols that point to an early Portuguese explorer leaving his mark.  Professor Delabarre's entire collection of photographs, notes, and publications is archived at the Old Colony Historical Society. 

Dighton Rock was privately owned for centuries, but was donated to the Old Colony Historical Society in 1889, making it the most unusual artifact ever to be part of the OCHS collections.  The Society donated the rock to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in 1955.  The boulder was lifted out of the river in the 1960s and placed in its own museum at Dighton Rock Park in the 1970s, largely through the persistent efforts of Dr. da Silva, who is President of the Friends of Dighton Rock Museum, Inc. 

Dr. Manuel Luciano da Silva's more recent studies have focused on the most famous New World explorer, culminating in a book he wrote with his wife, Silvia Jorge da Silva, entitled Columbus Was Portuguese!  He will touch on his evidence for this theory, and on his interpretation of other area landmarks and sources that point to Portuguese exploration of America even before Columbus.

The presentation on November 19 at 7 p.m. is free and open to the public.  Visitors will have the opportunity to view the Society's special exhibit Soaring to New Heights: Aviation in Taunton, 1919-2009 beginning at 6:30 and following the illustrated talk.

Music from Around the World Comes to Taunton

Taunton – Cultural diversity is the theme of this year’s sixth annual CO-OP production titled "The Wonderful World of Music."

The music and dance performance will be held on Friday, November 6, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. at the Friedman Middle School, 500 Norton Avenue, Taunton.

CO-OP instructor, Maria Torques is in the director’s seat and says this is a very different type of production for the CO-OP Players. "We’re integrating music and dance with this year’s production and creating a global experience."

Seats are limited and will be sold on a first come, first served basis and will not be sold at the door. Tickets prices are $15.00 for adults and $10.00 for children age 10 and under. Tickets can be purchase by calling Ann Costa at 508.824.1717 or by stopping by CO-OP’s administrative offices at 455 Somerset Avenue, North Dighton.

CO-OP provides a variety of residential, employment and other services to more than 200 men and women in the Taunton/Attleboro area with intellectual disabilities. Now in its 37^th year of service, CO-OP’’s purpose is to assist people with disabilities gain full presence and participation in the community.

Ed Pond is one of the many CO-OP consumers performing in "The Wonderful World of Music" on Friday, November 6, 2009 at the Friedman Middle School.

Taunton Man Charged with Gas Station Homicide

October 27, 2009 - Taunton, MA - District Attorney Sam Sutter and acting Taunton Police Chief John Reardon announced that Steven Foster, 37, of 68 Broadway, Taunton, has been charged with committing Sunday's homicide in Taunton.

Mr. Foster was charged after being questioned at the Taunton Police Department this afternoon. He is charged with murder, armed robbery, possession of a stolen firearm and witness intimidation. He may face more charges as the investigation progresses.

Steven Foster, 37, charged with Taunton gas station murder

Mr. Foster will be arraigned today in Taunton District Court. He will be arraigned by Co-First Assistant District Attorney William McCauley, who coordinated the investigation for District Attorney Sutter's office.

Taunton Police received a 911 call around 10:05 p.m. Sunday night regarding a man shot inside Planet Petroleum on Winthrop Street.  The 911 caller apparently went inside the store and found the clerk, identified as Hegazy Sayed, 45, of Taunton, shot behind the counter.

Preliminary investigation has revealed Mr. Foster allegedly entered Planet Petroleum at 10 p.m. Sunday and attempted to rob Mr. Sayed. At some point, Mr. Foster allegedly shot Mr. Sayed.

Mr. Sayed was pronounced dead at the scene once emergency personnel arrived.

The investigation is being conducted by Taunton Police and the district attorney's State Police Detective Unit.

Morning Crash on 495 Leaves One Dead, One Seriously Injured
more...

Car Chase Ends in Crash

October 8, 2009 - Norton, MA - On October 4 at 5:40am, Taunton Police notified Norton Police that they were pursuing a motor vehicle northbound on Taunton Avenue (Rt. 140) reported as stolen. Norton Patrolman David Schepis observed the suspect vehicle and the Taunton Police approaching the intersection of Taunton Avenue and East Main Street (Rt. 123). The vehicle attempted to turn at the intersection, but due to its high rate of speed, crashed through a steel fence and entered the Norton common, finally resting approximately 20 yards into the common.

The operator of the vehicle, Joseph Mohan IV, 18, of 46 Flintlock Road, Taunton, was placed under arrest by Taunton Police. Mohan was transported to Sturdy Hospital by the Norton Fire Department. Damage to the common included the steel fence and landscaping.

Mohan is charged by Norton Police with Negligent Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Speeding, and Wantonly Injuring Real or Personal Property.

258 S. Worcester Street, Norton, MA 02766 View Map

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Charming Cape

This Cape home is filled with charm! From the fireplaced living room with built in shelves & hardwood floors to the antique candy store bar top in the basement. The Master Bedroom is spacious & has walk in closets. With the one car garage, breezeway & finished basement there is plenty of room for everyone. And when you step outside, you won't believe it. Sitting on over an acre of land, the private back yard will amaze you with its above ground pool, 3 sheds, two-tier deck & yes your own fruit trees!

2 Maggi Lane Norton, MA 02766 View Map

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Beautiful Raised Cape

The brick walkway welcomes you into this beautiful raised cape located on a cul-de-sac in desirable Leigh High Estates. With a dining room, family room & fireplaced living room, you will find this home is great for family gatherings. The kitchen has plenty of cabinets, hardwood floors & a door that leads you to an oversized Trex deck. Enjoy the private back yard surrounded by conservation. The lower level can easily be finished. This is a home you must consider as your new address. Call today!

State Cultural Grants Benefit Local Organizations
$58,320 will go to schools and nonprofit cultural groups

October 8, 2009 - Boston, MA- Senator Marc Pacheco (D-Taunton) announced today that grants totaling $58,320 have been awarded to cultural organizations, schools and communities in the First Plymouth and Bristol Senatorial District by the Massachusetts Cultural Council (MCC). Senator Pacheco said that these grants support a variety of cultural activities that benefit local residents. The announcement was made as part of a statewide funding program by the MCC.

Local recipients awarded Local Cultural Council Program (LCC) grants include: Berkley, Bridgewater, Carver, Dighton, Marion, Middleboro, Raynham, Taunton and Wareham. The LCC Program is the most extensive cultural funding system of its kind in the nation. This grassroots network provides to every Massachusetts city and town through 329 LLC's and 2,500 volunteer members. The councils support community-based projects that explore local arts and history, expand education and accessibility, and celebrate diversity.
 
Berkley            $4,000
Bridgewater     $7,660
Carver              $4,000
Dighton            $4,000
Marion             $4,000
Middleboro      $5,870
Raynham         $4,000
Taunton           $20,100
Wareham         $4,960
 
"I'm proud to support these cultural organizations and community groups in their work to enrich our lives and improve our communities through arts and culture," said Pacheco.
 
The Massachusetts Cultural Council is a state agency that promotes excellence, access, education and diversity in the arts, humanities and sciences, in order to improve the quality of life for all Massachusetts residents and contribute to the economic vitality of our communities.
 
The MCC is committed to creating a central place for the arts, sciences and humanities in the everyday lives of communities across the Commonwealth. The Council pursues this mission through a combination of grants, services, and advocacy for nonprofit cultural organizations, schools, communities and artists.

MA Housing Finance Agency Commits $4.6M Loan for Affordable & Special Needs Housing

October 8, 2009 - Boston, MA - Senator Marc R. Pacheco (D-Taunton) is pleased to announce that the Massachusetts Housing Finance Agency has approved a loan commitment of up to $4,665,000 for the Taunton Green housing development situated in Taunton. 

Taunton Green is a development that is eligible under MassHousing's innovative Section 8 Proactive Preservation Program to receive funding to preserve affordable housing rates for a minimum 20-year period.  This funding eliminates the risk of a market-rate conversion that 71 properties, including Taunton Green, were subject to when mortgage contracts were to mature during the years of 2009 and 2013.  The four-story, 75 unit building is an elderly and handicapped housing facility with 66 one-bedroom units and 9 two-bedroom units. 

Although the property has been well maintained, this funding will address building preservation. Building improvements are necessary for the complex to retain its fine physical condition for the next 20 years.  Improvements to the complex include installation of energy efficient lightening, central fire alarm/detection system replacement, window replacement, elevator restoration as well as upgrades to the 504/Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) unit and common area.

"I am very pleased that MassHousing has approved this loan commitment for Taunton Green," said Pacheco.  "This approval under the agency's Preservation Program ensures accessibility to housing that is safe and affordable for several decades to our district's most vulnerable citizens."

Morton Hospital "First Friday" Lecture to Feature H1N1 Discussion

October 1, 2009 - Taunton, MA – Morton Hospital will host its next "First Friday" lecture on Friday, October 2, at 8 a.m. in the Silver City Galleria Community Room. Connie Schmidt, RN, Infection Control Nurse, will host the lecture and discuss important information about H1N1 and the seasonal flu.

The Mall Walkers Program is a fun, easy way to stay healthy and fit, and the Galleria provides a climate-controlled environment perfect for walking. Morton Hospital provides breakfast and information on a variety of health topics on the first Friday of each month. All mall walkers and visitors are welcome to attend free of charge.

"First Friday" lectures are sponsored by the Hospital in collaboration with the Silver City Galleria and its Mall Walkers Program. For more information, contact Morton Hospital’s Public Affairs Office at (508) 828-7015.

Police Arrest Subject in Connection with Housebreak

September 24, 2009 - Norton, MA - On September 22,  Norton Police Detectives Stephen Desfosses and Todd Bramwell, assisted by Taunton, Raynham and State Police, arrested Jeffrey Chapman, age 34 of 43 Porter St., Taunton MA, on a warrant charging him with Receiving Stolen Property over $250.00. There is a second arrest warrant pending for a second suspect.

Chapman's arrest is a result of an investigation by Desfosses and Norton Police Detective Lt. Thomas Petersen. Norton Detectives investigated a housebreak that occurred on Monday September 21, 2009 at a residence in Norton.

MA State Police Trooper John Santos, of the Middleboro Barracks, stopped a vehicle on Monday in Taunton shortly after the Norton housebreak. Chapman and the second subject were in this vehicle.  Trooper Santos recovered a large amount of jewelry at that motor vehicle stop, which was later found to be among items taken at the Norton housebreak.

The investigation is on-going, and police are actively searching for the second suspect.

Planning for Your Retirement

This seminar is free for Taunton Chamber Members and $20 for Non-Members.  Register by calling the Chamber at 508-824-4068 or emailing info@tauntonareachamber.org. 

Level 3 Sex Offender Arrested

September 20, 2009 - Norton, MA - Jose Pacheco, 43, of Maple Street, Norton, a level 3 sex offender, was arrested last week by Detectives with the Norton Police and Massachusetts State Police for failing to register as a sex offender in Norton and for Forgery of a Registry of Motor Vehicles Document.

The arrests were a result of an investigation by Trooper Shawn Campinha of the Massachusetts State Police and Detective Lieutenant Thomas Petersen of Norton Police.

Pacheco was located living his girlfriend's apartment in Norton. Pacheco was living under a false identity that he created.

Pacheco had registered as a sex offender in Taunton at a previous address, but had not notified the Norton Police Department, prior to moving into Norton as required.

Pacheco was transported to the Norton Police Station for booking and then to Attleboro District Court for arraignment.

Mass House GOP Caucus Announces
New Political Initiative and Website

September 18, 2009 - Massachusetts House Republican Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) is pleased to announce the launching of the House Republican Caucus' political website, MassHouseGOP.com. The website is aimed to give the caucus a political voice on the web, to help grow the caucus, and inform voters there is hope from one party rule, domination and corruption of our state government.

The site features the Phoenix Initiative which is an effort to help the Mass Republican House PAC and House GOP candidates in the November 2010 election. The symbol was carefully chosen as a sign of a rebirth and hope during these dark and dire times for the Commonwealth and from the abuse of the process by the overwhelming Democratic Majority in the state legislature. More than ever the citizens of Massachusetts need the Republicans to rise up from the ashes and provide a stronger two party system of checks and balances at the State House.

Leader Jones said, "MassHouseGOP.com and the Phoenix Initiative is an unprecedented move by our caucus. We are in an unprecedented situation in unprecedented times and we need to step up our efforts to make the case to voters in 2010 that positive change will only happen if more Republicans are elected to the House of Representatives. Our backs are against the wall and the abuse and arrogance of one party domination of the state legislature has only brought corruption and abuse to our legislative process.

Leader Jones along with Representative Paul K. Frost (R-Auburn) worked extensively on the creation of the website and initiative project. "We owe it to the people of this state regardless of their political affiliation to fight as hard as we can to elect more Republicans. The Democrats in the House have continually shown they are not responsible with the overwhelming power they wield. We are the party which offers hope for good government, a strong economic recovery, and fiscal responsibility." said Frost.

Brent Andersen, Republican State Committeeman and Treasurer of the Mass Republican Party along with Rob Eno and Michael Rossettie of the Red Mass Group were given an advanced viewing of the site. "When I saw this new site, I was thrilled by the potential it will have in electing more Republicans to the House," said Andersen. Eno, owner and operator of RedMassGroup.com commented, "This is very exciting to see the House Republicans pushing back hard and joining us in full force in this important battle on the internet." Rossettie, Editor of the Red Mass Group added, "I love the Phoenix Initiative. This is a creative way to rally support for this just cause and the symbolism is right on the money. They did a great job in putting this together." 

The site features all 16 House Republican members and will also list House GOP candidates for 2010. There is an online donation feature to help the Mass Republican House PAC and the site will be used to hook up candidates with volunteers. The site will be also used to help inform the general public on the need for Two Party checks and balances. Headlines for the House Republican Blog, the Capitol View Live, will be updated in real time on the site.

The full web address is www.masshousegop.com. The address for Red Mass Group is www.redmassgroup.com.

Mechanics Cooperative Bank is Hoping Taunton High School Football Has a Great Season

September 16, 2009 - Taunton, MA - Mechanics Cooperative Bank has committed a donation of $25 for every touchdown scored during the 2009 Taunton High School Football season. All donation dollars will be given to the Taunton High School Football Boosters Club and will directly benefit the Taunton High School Football Program.

“We are hoping the Tigers have a great 2009 season and put a lot of points on the board” said Joseph Baptista, Jr., President and CEO of Mechanics Cooperative Bank. “The better their season, the bigger our donation, so we are wishing them the very best of luck!”

Phil Johnson, Taunton High School Football Boosters President said “the generous support of Mechanics Cooperative Bank will have a huge impact on our 2009 fundraising efforts. Plus, it’s fun to be a part of – the more success this year’s team has, the more support we get for the entire program.”

The Tigers scored two touchdowns in a 22-14 loss against Wareham on Friday to start the season. Mechanics Cooperative Bank's donation total after week one stands at $50. You can track the donation total throughout the season by clicking here.

Taunton (0-1) heads to Brockton (1-0) on Friday. Game time is 6pm.

Taunton Animal Shelter's PAWS-itively PURR-fect Day

Click here to see more photos from PAWS-itively PURR-fect Day

18^th Annual Golf Tournament Raises Nearly $70,000 for Morton Hospital’s Women’s Diagnostic Imaging Center

Morton Hospital would like to express its sincere appreciation to all of the tournament’s in-kind donors, who contributed a wonderful array of raffle and silent auction items for the event, as well as the tournament sponsors: Shields Healthcare Group; Aramark; Sodexo Health Care; Bristol County Savings Bank; The Center for Wound Healing, Inc.; Fernandes Electric; Hinckley, Allen & Tringale, LP; MetLife; Ocean Spray; W.B. Mason; Altus Dental; Feeley & Driscoll, P.C.; HealthPlans, Inc.; Bank of America; American Medical Response; Comprehensive Pharmacy Services; ProMedical, LLC; ProMutual Group; Provista; Morton Emergency Associates; Mechanics Cooperative Bank; and, HarborOne Credit Union.

The 1^st Place W.B. Mason Foursome: (L-R) Brian Phillips, Steve Bliss, Scott Pearsons and Jeff Bliss.

Small Plane Lands on Rt. 495 in Mansfield

Public Meeting Will Discuss Taunton National Park Service Study

August 31, 2009 - Taunton, MA - A public meeting will be held regarding the National Park Service Special Resource Study about creating a national park unit in Taunton on Thursday, September 10. It will take place at 7:00 PM at the Old Colony Historical Society, 66 Church Green, Taunton, MA. National Park Service staff will explain the criteria for establishing a national park unit and address questions and receive input from the audience.

The study is being undertaken in conformance with Public Law 110-229, which calls upon the Department of the Interior, delegating responsibility to the National Park Service, to undertake a Taunton, MA, Special Resource Study.

For a determination to be made as to whether a resource should be considered for potential designation as a unit of the national park system, analyses are conducted based on the following criteria: 1) possess nationally significant natural or cultural resources; 2) be a suitable addition to the system; 3) be a feasible addition to the system; and 4) require direct NPS management instead of alternative protection by other public agencies or the private sector.

For further information on the study and the public meeting, contact Jim O’Connell, Project Manager, National Park Service, 15 State Street, Boston, MA 02109; 617-223-5222; Jim_O’Connell@nps.gov

Generous Golfers for PRIDE

August 26, 2009 - Rehoboth, MA – The 10^th Annual PRIDE, Inc. Golf Tournament on Monday, July 27, 2009 turned out 117 golfers at Rehoboth Country Club. The winners of the tournament, Rick Roblillard of Taunton, Paul Champagne of Taunton, Armondo Rosa of Taunton and Al Leal of Taunton donated the prize money of $200.00 from the tournament back to the non-profit organization.

Rick Robillard, Paul Champagne, Al Leal and Armando Rosa were the winners of PRIDE, Inc's 10th Annual Golf Tournament. The foursome generously donated the $200 cash prize back to the non-profit organization.

"I never cease to be amazed by the generosity of people," said Doug Latham, PRIDE’s Director of Operations and Golf Tournament organizer. "We are so thankful for their participation in the event alone, but then to donate their winnings back to us is just overwhelming."

The PRIDE, Inc. Golf Tournament has become a summer tradition for Taunton area golfers not only for the event itself, but the famous chicken barbeque held at the P.A.C.C. following the tournament.

Bristol County Savings Bank was the major sponsor for the golf tournament with all proceeds going toward funding the many programs provided by PRIDE to individuals with disabilities.

Long-time President and CEO of Morton Hospital to Retire

August 20, 2009 - Taunton, MA – Edward A. Roster, Chairman of the Morton Hospital and Medical Center Board of Trustees recently announced that Thomas C. Porter, long-time President and CEO will retire his position effective September 30, 2009. Porter has dedicated more than 30 years of service to the Hospital, the last 22 as President and Chief Executive Officer. As previously announced, Maureen Bryant, who has served as Morton’s Chief Operating Officer for the past decade, has been appointed by the board as the new President and CEO.

Morton Hospital President and CEO, Thomas C. Porter

Throughout his tenure, Porter has focused on sustaining the Hospital’s mission of providing access to quality health care for all patients. He guided the Hospital through several significant changes and improvements, including the addition of the Center for Wound Healing and a partnership with Shields Healthcare Group and Sturdy Memorial Hospital to open a Radiation Oncology Center, bringing state-of-the-art cancer care to patients close to home.

Mr. Porter has also served as President of the Morton Health Foundation, a group dedicated to managing joint ventures and business relationships, as well as community relations. He also was elected and served as chairman of the Massachusetts Hospital Association.

"I am eternally grateful to the employees, patients and friends of Morton Hospital and Medical Center," said Porter. "They have given me many memories that I will forever treasure."

"I will certainly miss my daily interactions with my colleagues at the Hospital, our volunteers, patients and community members," Porter said. "But I look forward to spending more quality time on Cape Cod with my wife and two children."

19 Cars Hit by Rocks on I-495 in Raynham

Aviation Exhibit at the Old Colony Historical Society

August 12, 2009 - Taunton, MA - Old Colony Historical Society at 66 Church Green in Taunton is pleased to announce a new exhibit, "Soaring to New Heights: Aviation in Taunton, 1919-2009" to mark the 90th anniversary of the oldest continuously-operating airport in Massachusetts, Taunton Municipal Airport - King Field.  This exhibit will open to the public on August 21, 2009 and run through January 7, 2010. Modest admission fees are charged for entrance to the museum ($2 for children and seniors, $4 for adults, free to OCHS members).

With the cooperation of many in the area--King family members, pilots, airport personnel, and historians--the museum has assembled a remarkable array of aviation artifacts and stories.  The exhibit will show airships from biplanes through jet planes.  It will depict flying in the age of barnstorming through modern stunt plane air shows.  Many of the fascinating personalities who dedicated themselves to the art and science of flight in our community will be included.  To complement the exhibit will be a continuously-running documentary made by Susan McGrath from numerous King Family photographs entitled, "Wings to Fly:  A Pictorial History of the King Family and Aviation in East Taunton."

In addition to the exhibit, the featured speaker on October 15 at 7 p.m. will be Fred Morin, Vice President of the Massachusetts Aviation Historical Society.  He will put our city's airport in historical context with the rest of the Commonwealth and the country using an illustrated presentation.  This event is free and open to the public, and will include admission to the exhibit.  Pre-registration is not required.

World War II era De Haviland "Chipmunk" airplane smiles at everyone from its hangar at the Taunton Municipal Airport - King Field.  Photograph courtesy of Old Colony Historical Society, Taunton, Massachusetts.

Morton Receives National Recognition for Quality Heart Disease and Stroke Care

"The American Heart Association is pleased to recognize its top Get With The Guidelines participants," said Lee Schwamm, M.D., national chairman of the Get With The Guidelines steering committee, associate professor of neurology at Harvard Medical School and Vice Chairman of Neurology at Massachusetts General Hospital. "Healthcare providers who use Get With The Guidelines are armed with the latest evidence-based guidelines and immediate access to clinical decision support. The goal of this initiative is to ultimately improve the quality of life and help reduce deaths among heart and stroke patients."

Taunton Fugitive Arrested on Plane Moments Before Take-Off
Jose Torres-Rivera is in custody on a warrant charging him with kidnapping, assault and battery, and violating an abuse prevention order

August 6, 2009 - Massachusetts State Police boarded an airliner yesterday just moments before it was scheduled to take off from Logan Airport and arrested a passenger wanted for assaulting and terrorizing a woman last week in Taunton.

State Police assigned to the department’s fugitive unit and its airport barracks tracked Jose Torres-Rivera, 30, of Taunton to a Jet Blue Airlines flight that was scheduled to depart from Logan for Puerto Rico at 2:10 p.m. A State Police Sergeant and two Troopers boarded the flight as it was preparing to roll back from the gate and apprehended Torres-Rivera. Torres-Rivera was arrested on a warrant charging him with kidnapping, assault and battery, and violating an abuse prevention order.

Evidence suggests that Torres-Rivera, armed with a knife, broke into his victim’s Taunton apartment shortly after midnight on July 31. He allegedly hit the woman repeatedly in front of her two children and threatened to stab her. Torres-Rivera also took the woman’s cell phone and would not let her or her children leave the apartment. Later in the day, he allowed her to leave when she said she needed diapers for her children. When she left the apartment, she went to a fast food restaurant in Taunton, where she called police. Taunton Police were unable to locate Torres-Rivera and obtained an arrest warrant in Taunton District Court.

The State Police Violent Fugitive Apprehension Section began searching for Torres-Rivera, and by this afternoon had tracked his route of flight to the apartment of one of his relatives in Taunton. Although family members were initially uncooperative, Troopers interviewed people who live and work near the apartment and learned that Torres-Rivera had left the relative’s apartment carrying a suitcase this morning. Troopers also learned that Torres-Rivera had made statements that he was going to Puerto Rico. Further investigation revealed that the suspect was scheduled to fly out of Logan Airport yesterday afternoon.

Fugitive unit Troopers contacted Troop F, the State Police Troop that has jurisdiction over Logan. Troopers assigned to the Logan barracks determined that Torres-Rivera was seated on the Boston-to-Puerto Rico flight, boarded the plane immediately, and took him into custody.
The suspect was held overnight by Taunton Police and is expected to be arraigned today in Taunton District Court.

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