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You are here: Home / Archives for Kathleen Peloquin, Media Editor

Changing the Story: A Happy Ending Authored by Love

December 12, 2025 By Stephani Teran

Mahatma Gandhi said, “The greatness of a nation can be judged by the way its animals are treated.” This thought-provoking sentiment can also apply to individuals. Thankfully, amidst the many overwhelming and sad things happening in the world, there are “great” individuals doing amazing things to make life better for both people and creatures. One of these renegades resisting indifference and callousness is Vicki Alberti of Schoolhouse Farm in Plympton -and her new best friend, Journey.
Alberti is no stranger to second chances. In addition to rebuilding her life as a single mother, remarrying after finding a second chance at love, and even living in a charming old schoolhouse given new purpose as a residential home, Alberti has a soft spot for seeing that animals, particularly horses, are also set back on the track to happiness through the right kind of love and care.
Several horses before Journey have come to live life to the fullest at Schoolhouse Farm. One glance at the picture-perfect scene will make you want to live here, too. The antique schoolhouse is surrounded by various lush gardens, sprawling pasture, and framed by dense New England forests laden with horse trails and biodiverse wetlands. The barn and farmyard outbuildings are tidy and well-kept, and the animals healthy and active. Many local bands and groups use this magical place as a backdrop for concerts and events -the best performances are enhanced by the nearby farm animals chiming in mid-songs which makes everyone laugh. In short, if you were a horse -or any farm animal for that matter, you would be lucky, indeed, to find a home with the Alberti’s.
Alberti has been doting on and caring for horses her whole life. With a father who kept and showed horses, Alberti learned from a young age what goes into their care and training. When she found herself living on the perfect farm for horses, she didn’t hesitate to offer up her home. “I decided to foster for Stone Valleys Ray of Hope Equine Rescue. One of my fosters, Tristan, was just a scared weanling and I got to raise him for seven months until he was adopted by a family with a 14 year-old girl on a 30-acre farm in Michigan. It was a pleasure to see how well his story turned out.”
Two other fosters, an Arabian mare and her colt (Dani and Trevor) were looked after with love and responsible care until adopted out to happy homes. Most of the time, these beautiful animals arrive at Schoolhouse Farm scared, abused, neglected, and from environments completely opposite to the one they find with the Alberti’s. In order to understand exactly what these animals are being spared from when they are taken in by agencies and people like the Alberti’s, you have to better understand the horse auction and harvest industry in our country and our border-sharing countries.
Horse rescue programs in the United States have a massive undertaking in the effort to save as many mistreated, low-end auctioned, slaughterhouse-bound horses as possible each year. In 2024, 19,195 American horses were shipped to Canada and Mexico for slaughter because there are no slaughterhouses in the US. These slaughterhouses are killing the received horses and harvesting their meat for human consumption overseas in Asia and Europe. These ill-fated horses come from irresponsible breeding practices, owners who are unable to care for them, abusive situations where the animals are seized by authorities, retired sport horses, and horses with injuries that make them unrideable. Alberti explains, “Being unrideable is a real danger for horses because that is usually what people want them for. They don’t see them as potential pets like a dog or cat, just for companionship and love. Horses have a lot of expectations on them.”
When a horse is no longer with an owner, unless they are prestigiously bred and sought after, they are usually auctioned off at low-end horse auctions or sold privately via community advertisements. People, who seem to not mind profiting off the demise and abuse of innocent animals, called “kill buyers” regularly attend these auctions and out-bid legitimate prospective horse owners who could give these animals a second chance at life. “There are a lot of people who only care about profit -not the animals,” Alberti says when asked why such a career exists, “They see horses as disposable food product and nothing more.”
Once the kill buyer purchases the horses, they either attempt to sell them off at another auction, or send them off to places to be held until they are transported to international slaughterhouses. If a horse is not purchased and loaded onto a slaughterhouse transport, they are met with anything but a quick, humane end. The journey there is so unsafe, unregulated, and carelessly executed that many horses die enroute from injury, dehydration, and exposure.
The slaughterhouses also usually lack oversight or regulations and thousands of often unvaccinated, ill animals are kept in tight, loud, and upsetting conditions that frighten and overstimulate these sensory-enhanced creatures. Horses are large “flight” animals that can sense when another horse is in distress or suffering and their instinct is to flee. This, in addition to the advanced psychological nature and powerful stature of horses, means the slaughterhouse methods render humane methods of ending a horse’s life impossible -humane being veterinarian administered euthanasia. Weakened horses are forced into chutes in masses and then subjected to ineffective mechanical killing devices.
With all this heavy information in mind, it is also important to be aware that there are a lot of people trying to do the right thing and lessen these tragic outcomes. Over 500 organizations and networks in the U.S. operate with the sole intention of saving, rehabbing, and properly adopting out these abandoned and endangered animals. These are people dedicated to tracking slaughter-bound horses and intervening before they are shipped off by either purchasing them (ridiculously referred to as posting their bail -indicative that the horse has done some wrong) or posting their locations and images online for people to try to claim online before they are gone.
Once the endangered horses are taken in by these rescue organizations, they often require immense amounts of medical and emotional care and attention -a daunting feat in terms of the finances and energy required. According to the Animal Welfare Institute, it can cost anywhere from $10,000-35,000 a month to run a horse rescue. The cost of hay, feed, vet care, farriers, facility upkeep, and rehabilitation requires intense marketing skills, grants, and private funding through community support. They also rely on people like Alberti to offer fostering in healthy environments until the agency finds a safe and legitimate adopting customer.
Being an expert in horse care, handling, and now experienced with the fostering process, Alberti was now dreaming of having a rideable horse to keep as her own. Her beloved mare, Pearl, was getting old and was no longer rideable. Then, in June, her dream came about in an unexpected way. Aberti faced a health issue earlier this year that caused her and her husband, Dave, to have to forgo a much-anticipated, rarely indulged in cruise vacation. While home feeling unwell and sad to miss the trip, Alberti was scrolling through Facebook recuse sites when suddenly a picture of Journey came up. “I stopped and immediately fell in love. Those eyes! Those ears! He was adorable. I had to have him. I just heard my inner voice tell me he was the one, so I trusted my instincts and went for it.”
That said, in addition to the beautiful features and a call to the soul, Journey was suffering from severe starvation. He was found by a woman in North Carolina who networks with Last Chance for Kill Pen Horses. She intervenes before horses are taken to slaughter by posting their pictures and information online. If a particular horse is spoken for, she offers to hold them in quarantine until the adoptive owners can have the horse transported to its new home. After investigating, Alberti learned that Journey had no documentation, he had been through two low-end auctions already, had serious dental issues from complete dental neglect, and he was slaughterhouse bound.
Alberti did not let any of this deter her. She sent the money to post his bail almost immediately. “I took a huge risk jumping into this,” Alberti says, “I had to trust this woman in North Carolina, that I paid a lot of money to, to quarantine and care for him without me being there to oversee things for seven weeks. But I am so glad I did it.”
One of the biggest challenges in Journey’s rehabilitation was, and is, his ability to eat. Prior to Alberti’s adoption, Journey had not received dental care called floating. Floating is a crucial process in which a horse’s teeth are filed to smooth out sharp edges, thus ensuring proper alignment and gum and teeth health. For a horse to be able to eat normally and maintain dental health, floating should be done about once a year. At an estimated age of 18-20, and based off the state of damage in his mouth, it was possible that Journey had never received regular floating procedures. With detrimental misalignment and pain when chewing, Journey had been unable to eat for an unknown amount of time and was dangerously weak. In addition to the dental emergency, Journey had lameness from being overworked. Still, Alberti only saw his sweet nature and vibrant spirit and continued with the adoption process.
By mid-July, Journey arrived safe and sound at Schoolhouse Farm. While still kept a distance from the other horses at the farm, Pearl and Blackberry, Journey was immediately seen by an equine dental technician and a veterinarian. He was also put on special feed. “He is given extruded feed that is already broken up, beet pulp pellets, alfalfa pellets, and other supplements to get him renourished,” Alberti explains. “When he arrived he was so thin, but he is an absolute gem. He has perfect manners and loves to be loved. He is just perfect,” she beams.
Journey also arrived without a name or any records. Alberti had DNA testing done and discovered that he is an Arabian. As for the name, Alberti’s husband Dave fiddled with AI-generated horse names, and Journey came up. “Given his story and how far he had traveled to get here, we just knew it was the perfect name for him.” Journey began to slowly adjust to his new life on the farm. He was rotated out to pasture by himself for a while to have peace and a low-stress environment while adjusting to his new surroundings. At first he was so weak he could not be out for long, but now he has worked up to three hours in the pasture. Alberti is also taking Journey on longer and longer trail walks -non mounted, to build his muscle again as he gains weight. As for his starved physique, Journey is nearly unrecognizable (in the best way) in just five months. “He is actually just about ready to start trying to saddle and ride,” Alberti says. “It will be a slow process, but I think he can tolerate a light rider soon and that will help him strengthen and regain his physical abilities.”
In addition to the improvements and milestones Journey has already made and met, he had his first outing in November at New Beginnings Stables in Middleboro. Alberti recounts, “He went to a versatility clinic and he was really anxious when he got off the trailer. He had pretty major separation anxiety and was calling out for his barn mates back at the farm -which was understandable given his history of bonding with other horses and then being ripped away from them and transported multiple times.” Once the clinician at the barn met Journey, he was able to show Alberti some ways to calm him. “After we got him calmed down, the rest of the time he was great and handled all the obstacles and tasks like a champ!”
With the enthusiastic, unconditional, and responsible love and care Alberti provides, and his natural tenacity for life, it is no question that Journey’s story turned out about as happy as it could possibly be in the end. Healing will continue -both body and soul, and soon Journey’s terrors will only be a distant thing of the past. With Alberti by his side every step of the way, he will no doubt be back to a muscular frame and running through the pasture, or trotting in an arena with saddle and rider before long. His fear is being replaced with trust and love -healing both human and animal spirit. What if this beautiful ending could be the story for every horse?
Though most of us are not in the position to go out and adopt a horse, there are many ways to support this incredible endeavor. Horse rescue organizations rely heavily on donations and sponsorship to manage the continual influx of horses in desperate need. Volunteers are also needed to help with barn chores, marketing, and fundraising. It is impossible to do too much to help in the efforts to rescue these beautiful, innocent animals.
As the holiday season nears so do harsh winter conditions, economic hardships such as tariffs making hay and feed far more expensive for owners, and the continuation of a national horse industry that focuses more on performance and exploitation than love and respect. Perhaps this year could be the year we venture from the common, go-to charities and show solidarity with the tens of thousands of horses waiting for a second chance. Every horse saved is a horse saved. Humans control the narrative for so many living things on this earth -and we can tell much better stories. Consider adding to the happy endings in your community by looking into and supporting these local horse rescues:

Stone Valleys Ray of Hope Equine Rescue
Black Feather Horse Rescue
NEER North Horse Rescue
Central New England Equine Rescue
Cedar Oaks Equine Rescue

Filed Under: Featured Story, News

Kingston Hires Lambiase as Town Administrator

December 12, 2025 By Justin Evans

The Board of Selectmen voted unanimously on Nov. 25 to appoint Scott Lambiase, Abington’s current Town Manager, as Kingston’s next Administrator. Lambiase brings 18 years of municipal management experience, including nearly 15 years as Director of Inspectional Services in Duxbury.
The appointment follows a comprehensive search process in which the search committee unanimously recommended Lambiase. He emphasized his commitment to communication, transparency, and volunteer recruitment during his interview with the board. “One of the biggest things that I heard loud and clear in the past communities was that communication out of town hall and finding ways to engage the community is key and important,” he told selectmen.
Lambiase will need four weeks’ notice from Abington before starting in Kingston, meaning he could begin work before year’s end. George Samia will continue as Interim Town Administrator during the transition. The appointment is contingent on contract negotiations and background checks.

Filed Under: More News Right, News

NEHSJC High School Journalism Summer Workshop Now Accepting Applications

December 12, 2025 By Kathleen Peloquin, Media Editor

The New England High School Journalism Collaborative is excited to announce that we will hold our all-expense-paid summer workshop for students interested in journalism for the 39th year.
The workshop dates are June 20-27, 2026.
The program is intended to reach out to inner-city students and others in underserved communities. Some preference is given to current juniors and seniors in high school.
Students will be housed and work out of a newsroom at Simmons University in Boston, and learn to report, write, edit for a newspaper, and produce multimedia projects for a website. They will be assigned stories, conduct interviews, and will be exposed to working on a deadline to create their own newspaper.
The New England Newspaper and Press Association will be assisting with the application process. Application guidelines are as follows:
Only students who attend high school in the New England states (CT, MA, ME, NH, RI, VT) are eligible.
Only students currently in high school may apply, including graduating seniors. The program is not accepting students who have already taken part in the program.
Students must be recommended by a teacher.
A letter of recommendation from the sponsoring teacher must accompany the application.
A transcript from the school with the student’s most recent grades must accompany the application.
An essay of no more than 500 words must accompany the application. The applicant can write about why they should be selected to participate in this program OR how writing has helped the applicant explore and understand a problem in their life.
Students will need to upload a headshot.
PLEASE NOTE: You will receive an email confirming the receipt of your application with a link to a Dropbox folder to upload the required documents (letter of recommendation, transcript, personal essay, and headshot).
If you have problems using the form or uploading documents, you should email students@nenpa.com.
The deadline for applications is Friday, April 3, 2026.
Students will be notified of their status by the end of April.
Don’t miss the chance to take part in this unique program, established by the late Carole C. Remick more than 39 years ago. We are looking forward to training the next generation of journalists.
If there are additional questions or if the applicant needs special accommodations to submit information, please email Leah Lamson, NEHSJC managing director, at leah@nehsjc.org.

Filed Under: More News Left, News

Kingston Schools Preview FY27 Budget Request

December 12, 2025 By Justin Evans

Kingston school administrators presented the School Committee on Dec. 1 with a preliminary fiscal year 2027 budget totaling approximately $16.35 million after offsets—a 4.82% increase over the current year. If the town limits funding to 2.5%, three teaching positions would be eliminated and class sizes would grow districtwide.
Superintendent Jill Proulx and Director of Finance and Operations Sarah Hickey delivered the district’s earliest-ever budget presentation, responding to pressure from town officials pushing for greater transparency and adherence to a local bylaw requiring preliminary reviews by November.
“This is the earliest we’ve ever reviewed the budget,” noted School Committee member Jeanne Coleman during the meeting. The early presentation comes as the town grapples with competing budget demands across municipal departments and seeks to avoid override scenarios.
The level services budget, which maintains current staffing and programming, would total $17,188,080 before offsets. After accounting for estimated circuit breaker reimbursements at 70%, special education transportation reimbursement at 50%, and other offsets, the net budget request comes to $16,349,160—a 4.82% increase over FY26.
Administrators also presented two alternative scenarios illustrating difficult choices ahead. A 2.5% increase—described by Hickey as “a middle of the road number as a target for something that might be votable”—would require $362,436 in cuts: two full-time teachers at Kingston Elementary School, one at Kingston Intermediate School, one paraprofessional, $83,000 in curriculum spending, and roughly $14,000 in technology supplies.
The impact on students would be immediate and measurable. Under the 2.5% scenario, class sizes at KES in grades one and two would increase, while KIS would see larger sixth-grade classes as a planned staffing shift from third grade—where enrollment is declining—would be eliminated rather than reassigned.
A level-funded budget would prove far more severe, requiring $752,356 in cuts and an additional 4.7 full-time equivalent teaching positions eliminated. Average class sizes would reach 23-24 students in kindergarten, 21-23 in elementary grades, and as high as 25-26 in sixth grade.
“I’m never a fan of level funding ever,” said committee member Sheila Vaughn. “I will never vote level funding ever in my lifetime on this committee.”
Despite having language prepared should the committee wish to take a vote, Coleman urged restraint. “I don’t recommend that we vote any budget tonight,” she said. “These are numbers that we can present to the town in good faith… I actually think we’re in a much better position than we might have felt like we would have been at a year ago. These numbers don’t scare me looking at them as first draft.”
Coleman noted that for the first time in four or five years, the schools are presenting an initial budget under 5%. “I think for a first draft this is better news than I think expected, and I think it’ll give the town something to work with,” she said. Chair Megan Cannon agreed: “This is better than we expected.”
Administrators cautioned that the budget figures remain estimates. Preliminary circuit breaker reimbursement rates, Chapter 70 aid, and kindergarten enrollment numbers will not be finalized until later in the budget cycle. Current kindergarten projections show 161 students built into the budget, though actual registrations may vary.
Cannon reported that the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has warned Kingston that late submission of end-of-year financial reports could result in withholding of second-quarter circuit breaker payments and potentially Chapter 70 funds. “Sarah [Hickey] is working diligently on getting these end-of-year reports done, and we are hopeful that we can get everything in, in enough time to not have that outcome,” she said.
Both building principals outlined extensive capital needs requiring future warrant article approvals. At Kingston Elementary School, Principal Dr. Kerri Whipple identified the building’s aging chiller as a top priority, particularly since KES hosts Extended School Year programming. An elevator hydraulic upgrade estimated at $55,000 is required for inspection compliance, and larger capacity generators are needed after power outages revealed significant portions of the building lack backup power.
At Kingston Intermediate School, Principal Andrew Materna reported that previously approved capital projects are awaiting bids before new requests can proceed. Future needs include a hydrotank, HVAC repairs, air duct cleaning, and generator replacement. The KIS roof continues to require ongoing patching, with members noting that a full replacement will likely be needed within years.
Coleman thanked voters for approving a temporary override to replace 11% of the KES roof. “That’s going to pay dividends that we’re not going to be paying for patchwork for something that needed to be done,” she said.
PTO President Barbara Gildea reported that the annual “Fund the Fund” campaign raised over $21,000 for field trips and programming. The PTO also distributed $7,000 in teacher mini-grants plus approximately $70,000 in classroom supplies and reimbursements.
Cannon recognized Jeanne Coleman, who received an Outstanding Member Award at the Massachusetts Association of School Committees annual convention. Coleman is in her ninth year on the Kingston School Committee and also serves on the Silver Lake Regional School Committee.

Filed Under: Breaking News, News

Climate and Nutrient Runoff Threaten Duxbury Bay

December 5, 2025 By Justin Evans

The ecological and economic health of Duxbury Bay is being increasingly threatened by severe nitrogen pollution, primarily from septic systems and fertilizers, according to the comprehensive State of the Bay 2025 report presented to the Duxbury Selectboard Monday evening, Nov. 17.
Peter Quigley of the Duxbury Bay Management Commission delivered the sobering findings, drawn from a year-long volunteer effort analyzing over 15 years of water quality data. The report, which updates the 2009 assessment, highlights declining conditions in an estuary that supports a thriving 12 million oyster harvest annually and is the centerpiece of the town’s recreational and commercial life.
The Nitrogen Threat: A Canary in the Coal Mine
Quigley warned the board, “This is a canary in the coal mine type scenario,” explaining that nitrogen from human sources is driving excessive plant growth (eutrophication) that depletes oxygen and endangers marine life. The most critical finding is that most of Duxbury Bay north of a line from the Harbormaster’s dock to High Pines now has nitrogen levels at or above concerning ecological thresholds, indicating impaired water quality.
The data confirms that the pollution is worsening. Charts presented to the board showed nitrogen levels in the Bluefish River, below Powder Point Bridge, and at the Harbormaster’s dock are all trending upward over time. Measurements in the Bluefish River, in particular, are significantly above draft thresholds established in a 2017 Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) study.
The report identifies septic systems as the primary source of nitrogen pollution, with fertilizer use as a secondary contributor. Conventional Title 5 septic systems do not remove nitrogen before wastewater enters groundwater and eventually flows into the bay. The shared septic system located at Snug Harbor, directly above the Bluefish River, was cited as a particular concern because it lacks nitrogen removal technology.
Visibly, the problem is manifesting as a green coloration on tidal flats at low tide, a symptom of excess plant growth. Quigley noted that this extensive green coverage on the flats was not present as recently as five years ago.
The Stakes: Mandatory Restrictions Loom
While the MassDEP draft thresholds are not yet officially enforced by the EPA, Quigley cautioned that enforcement is likely coming. He pointed to the regulatory fate of Cape Cod, where all 15 towns are now subject to nitrogen-sensitive area designations requiring nitrogen removal in all septic systems, with no grandfathering.
Selectboard member Mike McGee stressed the need to act proactively, emphasizing that the septic issue is tightly intertwined with the PFAS contamination issues the town has already been addressing. The cost of mandated septic system upgrades could fall heavily on individual homeowners if the town does not intervene.
Broader Ecological Threats
The crisis extends beyond nitrogen levels. The report documented several other concerning trends:
1. Eelgrass Die-off: The bay has suffered a massive eelgrass die-off of up to 75 percent over the past decade. Eelgrass provides critical habitat, stabilizes sediments, and enhances water clarity. Loss is driven by nutrient-driven turbidity, rising water temperatures, and physical disturbance.
2. Temperature Stress: Duxbury Bay is experiencing increasingly frequent episodes of extremely warm water, defined as temperatures above 77 degrees Fahrenheit (25°C), which stress aquatic life and contribute to low oxygen events.
3. Invasive Species: The proliferation of invasive species poses a growing threat. These include European green crabs, tunicates (sea squirts), and bryozoans (moss animals). Cris Luttazi of the Duxbury Beach Reservation described an underwater video survey showing only green crabs, resembling “a horror movie,” which preys on juvenile shellfish and damages eelgrass.
The Bay’s Strengths and Solutions
Despite these severe stressors, the bay remains productive. Water quality for pathogens is generally very good, supporting swimming beaches and the commercial oyster industry, except following heavy rain events.
The burgeoning oyster industry provides a measurable environmental benefit: the 12 million oysters harvested in 2024 remove the equivalent of nitrogen waste from about 1,000 residents annually. Eelgrass restoration efforts are also underway through collaboration between the North and South River Watershed Association, DVMS, Mass Bays, and Island Creek Oysters.
Recommended Actions and Next Steps
Quigley recommended several immediate management actions:
1. Nitrogen Source Assessment: Conduct a comprehensive assessment to identify the sources and estimated volumes of nitrogen contamination, focusing on the Bluefish and Back River watersheds. The Board of Health and Conservation Commission are positioned to lead this effort.
2. Fertilizer Reduction: Implement short-term solutions such as seasonal fertilizer bans and voluntary landscaper pledges that follow best practices. Selectboard member Fernando Guitart suggested surveying fertilizer usage by town entities and the Duxbury Yacht Club.
3. Habitat Restoration: Develop and execute pilot projects for eelgrass and marsh grass, and investigate creating shellfish reefs for natural nitrogen removal.
The Selectboard endorsed holding quarterly meetings with the Planning Board to support town goals, and Selectboard members agreed to share the findings of the report with the Board of Health and Conservation Commission. The Bay Management Commission will present the findings to the Conservation Commission on Dec. 2 and the Board of Health soon thereafter to develop a nitrogen source assessment plan. The window for voluntary action, the report concludes, is rapidly closing.

Filed Under: Breaking News, News

Gifts From the Heart: Shaping the Future of Our Local Economy

December 5, 2025 By Stephani Teran

Perhaps it’s the sound of holiday bells shimmering on the antique doorhandle of the beloved, old-fashioned penny-candy store, or the scent of coffee and book pages mingled pleasantly under-nose at the book shop and café on the center street of your town, or the first name basis greeting and familiar faces at the checkout of your local deli. All of these increasingly rare nuances insinuate shopping local.
In addition to often providing shopping experiences full of enough ambiance to make one wax poetic, shopping local is more than just pleasant and nostalgic -it is one of the most powerful choices we can make to shape the future of our local economies. The holiday season is a particularly wonderful time to reflect on how our consumer choices can shape the future of our communities. The US Small Business Administration shows that, as of June 2025, there are over 36 million small businesses in the United States. These local shops, boutiques, and businesses aren’t just there to offer picturesque storefronts to admire from a distance, they’re the heartbeat and undercurrent of our towns. They provide jobs and support families for people you know and care about. Local businesses often give back as much as they receive from their community by supporting, and even spearheading initiatives that enrich our neighborhoods and communities.
Of course, the hustle and bustle of modern-day life cannot be dismissed and discounted no matter how appealing that may sound. People are busier than ever with budget constraints of all kinds and severities -especially in the current economy with things like tariff worries and cost-of-living increases. A busy mom faced with a minute-by-minute-packed weekend who also needs to get a birthday gift for her child’s schoolmates birthday tomorrow is going to pop into a big box store on the way to the party. Sometimes, the tool you need just isn’t at any local stores. Sometimes, a meager budget needs to be respected and prioritized, and the least expensive option is easy to find with a few clicks on the phone. Convenience and thrift are not sins, they are realities, but they shouldn’t be our only plan.
One of the biggest and most obvious community-positive impacts of shopping local is that a substantial amount of every dollar spent with a small business strengthens the local economy. Shopping small isn’t just about making a purchase—it’s an investment in your community. When we choose to spend our money on local shops and businesses, we create what is called the “local multiplier effect” and it impacts local communities exponentially. The effect is defined as the occurrence where financial resources expended within a specific geographical area circulate repeatedly, thereby generating additional, stable economic activity and wealth. This makes sense because, according to BusinessDasher, statistics show that about $68 of every $100 spent at a local business stays in the community, while approximately only $14 of every $100 spent at a big box store stays in the community. With a greater percent of your money spent at local business staying in and supporting the local economy, it is more than an altruistic gesture to include community businesses in your shopping plans, it is a smart place to put your money.
In addition to boosting your local economy, shopping local and small is less of a drain on the environment. Local and sustainably made products travel fewer miles, use fewer resources, and are often made and produced with less destructive methods than mass produced products. Even packing material from online ordering is becoming a major pollutant. A study from PakFactory found that 1.8 billion tons of greenhouse gasses are emitted yearly from plastic packaging production. Ten percent of packaging’s carbon footprint is attributed to transportation and shipping. Seventy-nine percent of that produced plastic packaging waste ends up in landfills. In addition, 25% of global plastic packaging waste is attributed to packaging used in shipping. Buying from your local shops and businesses usually only results in something like a small, paper bag -perhaps some tissue paper inside, and the fuel used to drive a short distance if walking wasn’t an option. These things are mere crumbs in terms of waste and footprint compared to the Mt. Everest we have built out of material waste from big box stores and shipping companies.
One lesser considered benefit to shopping local this holiday season is that it is often far more intentional. Local businesses wear their hearts, and products so-to-speak, on their sleeves. They have often either made or carefully curated their inventory. Nothing is in a small shop that hasn’t been considered and/or made by the owner. You are purchasing something with a tangible, purposeful energy and the recipient is bound to notice. A thoughtfully made gift has meaning and purpose. It tells a true story about craftsmanship, sustainability, and care. Be it a hand-poured seasonal candle, seasonally baked goods, or art work from a local artist, gifts like these usually lead to connection, not clutter.
Economy is not the only thing to benefit from shopping locally this holiday season. As a local consumer you are also helping to preserve craft, arts, and culture. Behind many small businesses there is an artisan – a creative maker or craftsperson who is an expert in their trade. Small business owners are often keeping traditions alive by producing their goods and inventory with their hands -or at least via a very hands-on process, devoid of heavy-duty machinery. Another consideration is that different ethnicities in your community often share their culturally-based arts, crafts, trades, and skills via local businesses -be it as the owners themselves or having their products carried in and showcased in a shop. According to the United States Census Bureau, 12.7 million non-employer businesses and 1.3 million employee businesses are women-owned, and 385,119 employer firms in the United States are owned by minority women. When you buy local, you are helping preserve creativity, equal-opportunities, artistry, and heritage—things that can’t be mass-produced in a factory.
The result of shopping local and small this holiday season extends past the logical and ethical -it simply feels good. A study via a buyer behavior report from Arizona State University showed that consumers who made purchases at a local, small business left with a greater sense of community than they did leaving a big box or chain store establishment. They felt increased purpose in their purchase choices and also because they experienced moments of connection with the local shop owners as well as the oft-familiar clientele. More of us are coming around to the importance and benefits of shopping small and local.
A report from IPX 1031 shows that 57% of Americans are willing to pay a bit more to shop locally. Around one in five Americans go out of their way to shop locally each month. Three out of four consumers say they would like to shop locally more often but it can be hard, and sometimes impossible, to do so when budgets and time are tight. Ninety percent of Americans would like to see more locally owned-small businesses in their areas and 60% of people shop more at local stores during the holidays than any other time of year. This is no small show of support as 44% of small business owners report that the holiday season support is at least 38% of their annual sales income -meaning that choosing some businesses for your holiday purchases quite literally keeps them in business.
Here in Massachusetts, we rank 13th in the nation for the most small businesses per 100,000 residents at 10,290 locally owned, small businesses in the state. Forbes magazine published that people in Massachusetts claimed to be willing to spend $150 more a month to go out of their way to support local and small businesses year-round and that increased to $250 during the holiday season. These amounts may seem inconsequential, but combined these financial choices can make or break our local industries.
In spite of the importance of local and small businesses in our communities, it is more difficult now, in some ways, to start and maintain them than ever before. New businesses have a high failure rate with nearly 90% of them closing within the first five years. Funding a new business is also increasingly challenging with the costs or rental spaces, adequate marketing support, and manufacturing and materials being more expensive in the last ten years. Many small business owners are inexperienced in cash flow management and the complexities of hiring and retaining employees.
The Q3 Small Business Index shows that inflation is a top concern for 46% of small businesses and 79% of small businesses are worried about tariff’s and say they would negatively impact, if not shut down, their business. Changes in consumer trends also indicate an ironic shift in consumers being more cautious and conservative in their spending the last two years while also seeking joy and comfort by spending more money on nostalgia and “treasure-hunting” experiences.
Regardless of changes and challenges our local businesses face, the solution is always the same: US. The Consumers. We, alone, have the collective ability to stabilize and boost our local economy and community through our consumer choices. Whether we choose to purchase the majority of our holiday gifts from local or small businesses, or even one or two of them, every decision to stay small and close to home is another “penny in the barrel”. As Peter Drucker said, “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” Let’s make sure the future of our communities is one of equal opportunities, available jobs, and chances to create and use talents to make a living. We may not be able to navigate the choppy waters of a global economy, but we can easily, and collectively, steady the ship locally for those in the community who have taken great personal risks to pour themselves into starting and maintaining their businesses which in turn, do nothing but local good. You may find yourself noticing that holiday spirit shines a little brighter for everyone when you choose local.

Filed Under: Featured Story, News

Rep. LaNatra Supports Legislation to Address Workplace Violence

December 5, 2025 By Kathleen Peloquin, Media Editor

BOSTON – Wednesday, November 19, 2025 – Representative LaNatra joined her colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in unanimously supporting legislation that strengthens protections for health care workers, establishes preventive and protective standards to reduce the risk of violence, improves health care facility incident reporting, enhances interagency coordination to safeguard privacy, and creates legal protections for certain employees harmed in the line of duty.
“Our health care workforce is the backbone of Massachusetts nation-leading health care system. For too long, this workforce has endured violence in the workplace that has gone unaddressed on a state level.” said Representative Kathy LaNatra (D – Kingston). “It is our job to ensure that health care workers do not have to worry for their own safety while trying to deliver the best care for their patients. This legislation affirms the Legislature’s commitment to protecting and strengthening the health care workforce and is a critical step in reducing workplace violence and giving workers the protections and benefits they deserve when it does happen. Thank you to Speaker Mariano, Chairman Lawn and Chairman Cahill for their leadership and thank you to Massachusetts Nurses Association, 1199SEIU and the Massachusetts Health & Hospital Association for working collaboratively with the legislature to address the health care workplace violence crisis.”
Every 38 minutes in Massachusetts health care facilities someone, most often a clinician or an employee, is physically assaulted, endures verbal abuse, or is threatened, according to the Massachusetts Health & Hospital Association. Violence against health care workers most often occurs in emergency rooms, inpatient units and psychiatric units. To support a culture of safety and respect in health care facilities, the bill passed takes the following approach:
Prevention Plans, Training and Reporting
• Establishes a statewide requirement for health care employers to address workplace violence through a standardized framework, requiring annual and facility-specific risk assessments conducted with employees and labor representatives to identify factors that place staff at risk.
• Mandates a written violence prevention plan that includes hazard mitigation strategies, employee training, post-incident debriefing and a crisis response program.
• Requires annual reporting of workplace violence incidents to the Department of Public Health (DPH) and district attorneys, supporting statewide and county-level data tracking while maintaining data privacy. The de-identified data will be publicly published and categorized by occupation and incident type.
• Imposes civil penalties against a health care employer for noncompliance (up to $2,000 per violation) and protects employees from retaliation.
Criminal Protections and Penalties for Assaults Against a Health Care Workers
The bill codifies graduated penalties for assaulting an employee or contracted employee in the line of duty. With 91 percent of violent incidents in hospitals committed by patients against workers, it focuses on health care settings where violence is most prevalent. Strengthening these protections ensures that direct health care providers, and the staff who support facility operations, on-site administrative work, security, or emergency medical transportation, have an opportunity to seek the justice that they are entitled to through the following penalties:
• Assault causing bodily injury: Up to 5 years in state prison, up to 2.5 years in a jail or house of correction, a fine of $500 – $5,000, or combination of imprisonment and fines.
• Assault causing serious bodily injury: Up to 10 years in state prison, up to 2.5 years in a jail or house of correction, a fine of $500 – $5,000 fine, or combination of imprisonment and fines.
Paid Leave for Employees
This bill establishes that employees directly employed by a health care employer in high-acuity settings, who suffer workplace violence resulting in bodily injury or serious bodily injury are entitled to paid leave without using any accrued time (vacation, sick or personal).
Privacy Protection for Employees and Union Members
Victims of workplace violence who are employed directly by a health care facility, or who are union members, may provide either the address of their health care facility or that of their labor organization instead of their personal home address for all court documents related to a workplace violence incident.
Alternative Pathways for Behavioral and Mental Health and Data Protection
• Mandates a statewide report from the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) and the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS) to improve care and alternative treatment options for those with mental or behavioral health diagnoses, and for criminal justice patients.
• Requires identification of new, non-arrest pathways to reduce unnecessary criminal justice involvement for high-acuity behavioral health patients.
• All recommendations must include strong safeguards, penalties for data misuse, and full compliance with federal confidentiality laws, including heightened protections for behavioral health and substance-use information.
• Ensures that improving data sharing of workplace violence incidents to improve safety does not come at the expense of any patient or health care worker’s privacy.
The bill passed the House of Representatives 158-0. It now goes to the Senate for consideration.

Filed Under: More News Right, News

True Repertory Theatre Brings all the Christmas Spirits

December 5, 2025 By Kathleen Peloquin, Media Editor

Donald Sheehan, Founder and Artistic Director of True Repertory Theatre, announces the company’s annual holiday production of A Christmas Carol, an original hour-long adaptation with music. Written by Donald Sheehan (Pembroke) and playwright James Sullivan (Braintree), A Christmas Carol will run for fiveperformances from Dec. 19-21, at The Beal House, 222 Main St., Kingston, MA 02364. This production takes a fresh look at the beloved character, Ebenezer Scrooge, played by True Rep favorite Mark Reed (Hull), along with a cast and production team from across the South Shore. General admission tickets are $20 at https://truereptheatre.com. Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus at each matinee!
According to Sheehan, “Dicken’s classic is sure to engage South Shore audiences of all ages! This annual  production has become a tradition for families across the region who return again and again for quality theater, original storytelling, and focus on community. In True Rep fashion, we’ll be bringing all the Christmas spirits.”
True Rep Gives Back through Project 719: During holiday performances of A Christmas Carol, True Rep’s Project 719 will collect donated items in support of local community organizations. Audience members are invited to bring goods directly to the theater:
• Canned goods for the Vineyard Resource Center in Kingston
• New, unwrapped toys for Toys for Tots, in collaboration with the Kingston Fire Department
• Clothing and small household items in collaboration with Savers
About A Christmas Carol:
Directed by Donald Sheehan, Founder/Artistic Director (Pembroke). Written by Donald Sheehan and Playwright James Sullivan (Braintree), featuring Mark Reed (Hull) as Ebenezer Scrooge. Dates: Friday, Dec. 19 at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 20 at 11 a.m. & 2pm; Sunday, Dec. 21 at 2 p.m. & 4 p.m. Running time: 1 hour
Additional cast includes:
Rosemary Catrone (Whitman)
Jake Crowley (Roslindale)
Mike Gillis (Plymouth)
MJ Brennan (Plymouth)
Rahlo Reay (Pembroke)
Nathan Goulart (Brookfield)
James Carroll (Norwell)
James Sullivan (Braintree)
Debby Stratton (Halifax)
John Stratton (Halifax)
Destiny Stratton (Halifax)
Isabella Stratton (Halifax)
Robbie Silenzi (Halifax)

Filed Under: More News Left, News

The Arc of the South Shore’s Fall Resource Fair a Success

November 28, 2025 By Nicole Joy Hales

The Arc of the South Shore, a family-oriented, community-based non-profit providing information, referrals, and community programs for individuals with disabilities, recently hosted a Resource Fair designed specifically for families of teens and young adults ages 15 to 26.
The September 27th event featured 78 registrants and 18 vendors, including The Arc of Massachusetts, Assistive Tech, Comfort Dogs, Commonwealth Financial Group (Child ID Program), Department of Developmental Services, Drew’s Tips, Evoke Change Center, Financial Guide, House of Possibilities, May Center, Norfolk Center Sheriff’s Department, Planned Lifetime Assistive Network (PLAN) of Massachusetts and Rhode Island, Reimagine Recreation, Rewarding Work, South Shore Supports, Special Olympics, Supported Decision Making, and Work Inc., Deaf Outreach.
The Resource Fair provided valuable tools, services, and support to help navigate the transition into adulthood. The event also featured break-out sessions hosted by Assistive Technology, PLAN of MA and RI, and Supported Decision-Making.
“We were thrilled to see so many people attend our Resource Fair, and even more buoyed by the amount of vendor interest in demonstrating ways they can provide support as our individuals transition into adulthood, which can be an incredibly challenging and uncertain time,” said Elizabeth Sandblom, CEO of The Arc of the South Shore.  “We continue to work to find ways to provide the knowledge and connections needed to feel empowered and supported for individuals, families, and caregivers, and we look forward to future Resource Fairs as one more way to achieve this.”

Filed Under: More News Left, News

300 Years in the Making: The Chronicles of Kingston

November 28, 2025 By Stephani Teran

Resting on the beautiful, marshy coastline of Kingston Bay and meandering along the Jones River, Kingston Massachusetts is a pocketed-gem of a town with abounding New England charm. Kingston claims a vibrant history shaped by events long before the Pilgrims landed that spans to current-day residents who are fortunate enough to call Kingston, “Home”.
With the new year on the horizon, Kingston will be celebrating its 300th anniversary of being incorporated as its own town instead of being considered the northern precinct of Plymouth. With such a monumental occasion around the corner, the residents of Kingston have long been planning ways to celebrate and commemorate this special town’s past, present, and future. One of the most poignant celebrations for Kingston’s 300th celebration is the launch of Tales of Jones River Village: Kingston’s 300 Years, a six-years-in-the-making collective work of stories and images about the history and current day happenings of the town, contributed by the residents of Kingston.
The effort began in 2019, when a small group of local history enthusiasts decided to compile a fresh, illustrated history of Kingston for the 300th anniversary. They launched Kingston 300, Inc. -a nonprofit that is independent of town government but works alongside town entities such as the Kingston Public Library and the Kingston 300th Committee. “Its goal has been to publish an easily readable account that people will enjoy, while they discover new things about this remarkable community,” says Jim Farrell, the project editor, longtime Kingston resident, and former weekly newspaper publisher.
Three esteemed and longstanding Kingston residents, Jan Guidoboni, Ken Brack, and Thomas Vendetti formed the 501c3 non-profit organization, Kingston 300, Inc. Jan Guidoboni is Kingston’s Town Historian. She also volunteers in the Local History Room at the Kingston Public Library and has authored a number of the articles in the book. Ken Brack is a former newspaper reporter and current author and publisher. He is co-founder of Hope Floats Healing and Wellness Center and part of the Kingston Historical Commission as well as the Kingston 300th Committee. Brack also serves as the project’s Managing Editor. Thomas Vendetti, a retired public-school teacher, is the current archivist at First Parish Church in Kingston. He is also a member of the Kingston Historical Commission and Jones River Village Historical Society.
Additionally, Sia Stewart, the town’s former Library Director, served as the book’s copy editor. Bill Alberti, a longtime Kingston resident, former teacher, musician, and poet also contributed many articles to the book. “Alberti’s poem, ‘Song of the River,’ leads off the content in the book,” adds Farrell. Alongside a collection of stories and accounts compiled by the Kingston 300th Committee, the book is full of beautiful photographs from Kingston’s past and present.
Ed Nute, a Kingston resident and founding member of the South Shore Folk Music Club, was the project photographer. Nute’s photos include shots of the Jones River, Delano’s Wharf and the Reed Building, the luminaries, and close-ups of Kingstonians in daily life. Connie Delano, a Kingston resident, former marine biologist, and web developer, served as the project’s photo editor. Delano carefully evaluated and reviewed the composition of all the images so that they met the standards needed for design. In addition to these efforts, community contributors of photos included Jimmy Powell, David Tewksbury, and David Pepe.
Tales of Jones River Village: Kingston’s 300 Years stories include a mix of modern and historical accounts. “The book begins with stories of the earliest settlers along the Jones River and takes the reader through the centuries to present day. There are stories of families coming to this country and settling in Kingston, articles on how neighborhoods developed, and the sacrifices that our town’s citizens made in war,” explains Farrell. Modern stories recount time spent at the Kingston Drive-In, various businesses and landmarks that are no longer around, and tales of residents, young and old, who helped shape the community over the centuries. “Some have done so through entrepreneurship, some through military efforts, and others through civic and community service. With 372 pages spanning three centuries, there’s literally something for everyone,” says Farrell.
To acquire such a vast array of local history is no small feat. A call was put out through the community seeking people with particular knowledge and stories to share. Farrell recalls, “There were also a number of people who approached us with stories that they wanted to be part of this community effort. Our commemorative book includes articles from more than 150 Kingstonians. Some were conducted as in-person interviews; others were researched, written and submitted to us by email. We sought to be as inclusive as possible in compiling this book, and what makes it different from previous histories is that there are many voices telling the stories, not just one.”
The residents of Kingston certainly answered the call when asked for their input as the biggest challenge of the project was keeping the book’s length reasonable. Farrell notes, “Even at 372 pages -we had originally anticipated about 300 pages, we couldn’t include every story and every photograph that we might have wanted to. We do believe that we have prepared a very comprehensive look at the town’s history, one where Kingston and its people are well represented.”
Once the stories and tales and images were gathered, assembling the project into a cohesive, tangible form was the next endeavor. Marie McConnell, of McConnell Design in Hingham, was the designer for Tales of Jones River Village: Kingston’s 300 Years. The printer was Kirkwood Printing in Wilmington. Such an intensive project and publication also required substantial up-front cost. Farrell explains, “The funds raised through sponsorships, grants, and book sales are expected to cover the costs of producing and printing the book. The directors have a plan in place if there are any additional revenues remaining after all expenses accounted for. Upon dissolution of Kingston 300, Inc., the directors will transfer rights of reproduction, distribution, and display to the Kingston 300th Committee or a similarly named town entity. The directors will convey the copyright to the town, along with any net revenues from book sales, as seed money for a future anniversary celebration.”
After six years of consistent teamwork and collaboration fueled by a mutual passion for a beloved town, Tales of Jones River Village: Kingston’s 300 Years is ready to make its way into the hands of readers. When asked why locals should consider purchasing this collective work, Farrell assures that no matter who you are in Kingston, you will find something on the pages that appeal to you. “It has something for everyone! It’s the most comprehensive book ever put together on this town’s history. Residents can read accounts about and written by their neighbors and friends. With more than 150 contributors, it is truly ‘the people’s book’.”
Farrell continues, “Maybe you’re a history buff who wants to know who served in the Revolution or what life was like here before the highway came through. Maybe you’re more focused on “urban legends” like “Is there really a whale buried under the Stop & Shop parking lot and how did it get there?” Or perhaps you are interested in the stories of the people who have made the town what it is: the politicians, the inventors, the entrepreneurs, and other “movers and shakers” of our community, past and present. Maybe you remember life here when the Dairy Queen, Tassy’s and the Drive-In were popular hangouts. Whatever your interest in the town, there is something for you in this book. It takes the reader through the earliest days of the settlers to modern day. Everyone will come away with a new perspective and knowledge about the town we all call home.”
To purchase a copy of Tales of Jones River Village: Kingston’s 300 Years, visit the Facebook page, Tales of Jones River Village: Kingston’s 300 Years, where there is a link to a secure website. The book is available at a pre-holiday rate of $35. People may also attend these upcoming events to purchase a book:
• Saturday, Nov. 19, 12-3 p.m. First book launch for event for Tales of Jones River Village: Kingston’s 300 Years. Location: The Faunce School, 26 Green St., Kingston.
• Tuesday, Dec. 2, 11:00-11:45 a.m. Location: Kingston Senior Center, 30 Evergreen St., Kingston.
• Thursday, Dec. 4, 5 p.m. Location: Forty Second Brew Co., 77 Summer St., Kingston (in conjunction with the Kingston 300th Committee).

Filed Under: Featured Story, News

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Changing the Story: A Happy Ending Authored by Love

December 12, 2025 By Stephani Teran

Mahatma Gandhi said, "The greatness of a nation can be judged by the way its animals are treated.” … [Read More...]

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  • Gifts From the Heart: Shaping the Future of Our Local Economy
  • Rep. LaNatra Supports Legislation to Address Workplace Violence
  • True Repertory Theatre Brings all the Christmas Spirits
  • The Arc of the South Shore’s Fall Resource Fair a Success
  • 300 Years in the Making: The Chronicles of Kingston

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