The Kingston Fire Department celebrated new leadership and fresh talent June 17 as Fire Chief Mark Douglass conducted a pinning ceremony promoting Joshua Hatch to Captain and swearing in four new Firefighter/Paramedics who completed their one-year probationary periods.
Hatch earned his promotion through a competitive assessment center process held last fall in anticipation of Captain Susan Hussey’s retirement. The examination included written components and practical assessments designed to evaluate candidates’ overall abilities.
“Joshua Hatch ranked highest in this process and became eligible for promotion to captain after completion,” the chief said during the ceremony at the Board of Selectmen meeting. Hatch was promoted May 27 and takes Captain Hussey’s place on group three.
Hatch’s wife Stephanie and children Nora and Caleb participated in the pinning ceremony, with his family presenting him with his captain’s badge.
Chief Douglass thanked Captain Hussey for her 27 years of dedicated service to Kingston, noting she was not present because “she doesn’t like public recognition and clapping.”
Four Firefighter/Paramedics also received recognition for completing their probationary periods and meeting all entry-level requirements. The new firefighters include Elizabeth Ewell, Mark Leary, Patrick O’Donovan and Caroline Reed.
Ewell was pinned by her wife Lorna and sons Carter and Preston. Leary received his badge from his father, retired Weymouth Fire Chief Robert Leary. O’Donovan was joined by his wife Lisa and children Liam and Clara, while Reed was pinned by her father, Kingston Firefighter James Reed.
The Chief explained that all new Kingston Firefighters must be certified as paramedics before being hired, an educational process taking one to two years that includes exten- sive classroom hours coupled with hospital and field internships.
“Once hired, new members are sent to the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy for 12 weeks of rigorous classroom and practical training in all aspects of firefighting,” Douglass explained. “Once that is complete, they return to Kingston and commence training in all aspects of the Kingston Fire Department and the town of Kingston.”
Assistant Town Clerk Janna Morrissey conducted the swearing-in ceremonies, administering the oath to each.
The chief noted that pinnings are conducted to recognize the extensive preparation required for firefighting and emergency medical services in the community.
In other business, the Kingston Board of Selectmen continues to explore establishing a Department of Public Works following feedback from residents at a public hearing on June 17, with the next meeting scheduled for July 29.
The proposal would consolidate the town’s Highway, Water, and Sewer Departments under a single DPW Director while maintaining the existing water and sewer commissions as elected policy-making bodies.
“We really have a structure that’s holding us back,” said Board Chair Eric Crone during the public hearing. “We have three different organizations in our town that can do road work. And there doesn’t have to be any cooperation between those departments.”
Currently, Kingston’s highway, water, and sewer departments operate independently with limited coordination requirements. The proposed structure would create a public works director overseeing daily operations while preserving the water and sewer commissioners’ roles in policy-making, rate setting, and capital planning.
“The existing teams would remain with some improved leadership, centralized leadership, and coordination,” Crone explained during his presentation.
The proposal failed at the spring town meeting by 10 votes, prompting Selectmen to schedule additional public meetings to address community concerns and gather feedback.
Town Administrator Keith Hickey explained that the DPW director would handle day-to-day operations and could assign work during emergencies, but licensed Water and Sewer employees would continue their specialized roles 99% of the time.
Water Treatment Plant Operator David Saper, who has served 25 years, praised the current management structure’s rapid response capabilities.
“One of the reasons I’ve always loved serving on the Water Department is because of the management structure that we have,” Saper said. “No matter what time of day or night, Chris always picks up the phone. Chris has a plan of action.”
Selectman Carl Pike expressed reservations about the proposal, citing concerns about budget impacts and the independence of water and wastewater departments.
“I personally like having some independence for the Water Department and the Wastewater Department,” Pike said. “I believe that somebody else out here has already hit upon it, that the town administrator and the Board of Selectmen have to take some responsibility for coordinating.”
Pike also criticized bringing the proposal back so soon after town meeting rejection, calling it “absolutely abhorrent to even think about bringing this to the fall town meeting.”
The working group identified several benefits of the DPW model, including faster project coordination, stronger accountability, cross-trained staff for emergency response, and better use of taxpayer dollars. Many similar-sized Massachusetts towns have successfully implemented DPW structures.
Crone acknowledged that the proposal needs refinement based on community feedback.
“We have some things that we are working on that we’re not done with,” he said. “We want to hear what everybody thinks, what questions people have, what things we need to figure out.”
The selectmen plan to meet with department superintendents and continue gathering community input before the next public hearing on July 29 at 5:30 p.m.
MA House Committee on Federal Funding holds first hearing; explores federal funding cuts, broad impacts
BOSTON – The House Committee on Federal Funding, Policy and Accountability held a hearing recently focusing on the broad impacts to the state budget and the economic health of the Commonwealth. The hearing, chaired by State Representative Kathy LaNatra, was the first hearing of the newly named Committee. Those who testified in front of the Committee included Doug Howgate, President of the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation; Sarah Mills, Vice President of Government Relations at the Associated Industries of Massachusetts, and Quentin Palfrey, Director of the Federal Funds and Infrastructure Office in the Healey-Driscoll Administration.
“Just five months into the current administration, we’re already seeing significant shifts in the federal funding that Massachusetts depends on,” said State Representative Kathy LaNatra (D–Kingston). “From higher education and childcare to small businesses and major employers, organizations across the Commonwealth are trying to understand how policy changes, funding cuts, grant rescissions, and tariffs will affect them. As Chair of this committee, I’m committed to making sure we fully understand the many ways our state partners with the federal government—and to creating a forum where nonprofits, businesses, institutions, and agencies can share information directly with the Legislature. These insights will help shape our response to the challenges ahead. I want to thank Doug Howgate, Sarah Mills, and Quentin Palfrey for their testimony today, and Speaker Mariano for the opportunity to lead this important work.”
Testimony from Doug Howgate of the MTF focused on the effects of federal funding cuts to the State budget. Howgate emphasized that one in four dollars in the House’s FY26 State Budget comes from the federal government, representing a higher share of revenue than both the sales tax and the lottery. He cautioned that an economic downturn, caused by uncertainty and tariffs would be more harmful to the State’s economy than any one policy proposal. Sarah Mills of AIM also focused on tariffs, highlighting their impact on businesses across the Commonwealth, which export around $77 billion to over 210 global markets each year. Director Palfrey focused on the efforts of the Healey Administration to track changes to federal funding, as well as logistical changes to how the state and localities apply for available federal dollars.
The Committee on Federal Funding, Policy and Accountability was created to monitor the effects of federal policy decisions on Massachusetts, particularly in areas like education, public health, veterans’ services, civil rights, and climate policy. The committee will engage with residents, businesses and stakeholders who have been impacted by President Trump’s actions, a process that will allow the House to better understand how to respond to the developments in Washington.
For questions about the Committee, or concerns about Federal funding or policy that you would like directed to the Committee, please email Christopher.Jean@mahouse.gov.
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“What’s Up?” – Just ask Barry
Stephani Teran
Express staff
If there is a celestial event occurring in the skies, there is a Plympton resident who is likely outside, telescope at the ready, to admire and observe it. Barry DeCristofano, a mechanical and chemical engineer by profession is also a hobbyist astronomer with a collegiate level of expertise in the field. Many of our Express readers now eagerly anticipate the “What’s Up?” page whenever it appears in the paper. Through DeCristofano’s down-to-earth approach on what might be an otherwise complex subject matter to the untrained participant, readers of the Express have been able to learn about various astronomical events and how to better navigate and understand the night sky. Through graphs, easy to decipher but enlightening illustrations, and detailed facts and instructions – often peppered with his gentle humor, astronomy becomes digestible science to the casual observer.
Being an informed participant in and appreciating the wonder and beauty of astronomy and the night sky was something instilled in DeCristofano from childhood. “My dad took me outside and showed me the Big Dipper and I was hooked. Once I learned that there were repeated patterns in the night sky I couldn’t get enough.” DeCristofano explained that his father served in the Navy in WWII and became familiar with the night sky while out at sea.
DeCristofano also grew up during the 1968 Space Program craze when the public was heavily aware of and enthusiastic about space technology and exploration. By the age of 10, DeCristofano had his first telescope and by the age of 13 he had saved up for a larger one. These days DeCristofano has a telescope so large that it requires its own outbuilding in the backyard. The circa 1975 12-1/2” Cave-Astrola Newtonian Reflector is housed in an ingenious shed with a slanted roof that slides down in order to open the building to the sky and offer an unobstructed view of the heavens for gazing and studying. DeCristofano explains that Plympton offers uniquely ideal skies for observation due to low levels of light pollution. Low light pollution is something DeCristofano and his wife, Carolyn, are passionate about. So passionate, in fact, that Carolyn was the force behind the Massachusetts Dark Sky Bill -a bill that aims to lessen levels of light pollution, conserve energy, and protect the natural rhythms of the environment. With skies devoid of the haze of artificial light and a clearing in the patch of trees just big enough to allow an unobstructed view, DeCristofano can enjoy and observe the universe above from the comfort of his backyard.
DeCristofano says he does not have a favorite object or phenomenon to view in the night sky, rather he has some “old friends” that never cease to amaze him including: Saturn, Jupiter, the moon, the Ring Nebula, Orion Nebula, the Andromeda Galaxy, and the Hercules Cluster.
“You are in the dark for half of your life, so enjoy it! The good stuff in the sky comes out at night.”
DeCristofano points out that at the end of each day many of us know exactly what happened in the daytime sky (cloudy, rainy, rainbows) but we are largely unaware of what is happening once the sun sets.
One of the missions he has undertaken in his time as a hobbyist astronomer is public outreach and education. In addition to our “What’s Up?” columns in the paper DeCristofano teaches about astronomy in the community any time he can -especially as a member of the South Shore Astronomical Society, founded in 1958 via a group of amateur astronomers on the South Shore. They meet the first Wednesday of each month at the Norwell Council on Aging and for Observing Nights which are open to the public and offer the chance to look through members’ telescopes provided there are enough clear nights.
Carolyn DeCristofano was the first female president of the society in 2022. From school outreach programs to local libraries and in casual conversation, should you by chance get to talk with her, you will have the opportunity to learn something new about astronomy.
“The hard part is the distractions keeping us inside,” DeCristofano says about what can hinder people from dark sky observation. “Evening television after a long day, constant cell phone usage, being apprehensive about being outside in the dark -and sometimes just finding the will to get off the couch after a work day can hinder motivation. Even I have nights where I have to force myself out there but I am always glad when I do.”
Last year in particular offered an array of rare and easily visible astronomical phenomena. DeCristofano says the increased frequency of events with the aurora should continue through the year before slowing down for another decade or so.
“It was my first time seeing the Northern Lights. The Perseid Meteor Shower was also amazing. You know, I’m out there with my telescope, listening to Pink Floyd and the coyotes howling off in the woods, watching the Northern Lights and it’s just perfect.”
If you want to learn more about navigating the night sky and understanding astronomy look for DeCristofano’s forthcoming “What’s Up?” features in the paper or email him at astroblog@comcast.net and follow along with the South Shore Astronomical Society (South Shore Astronomical Society) for upcoming events and viewing nights with telescopes.
Let’s see if this summer we can make a little more time to look up in the dark and be starstruck by the easily observed wonder of the universe.
Hero’s welcome to Bronze Star recipient Simon
Justin Evans
Express correspondent
The Plympton Board of Selectmen presented Police Sergeant John Simon during the June 9 meeting with a certificate recognizing his receipt of the Bronze Star Medal, honoring his exceptional service during a recent military deployment.
“On behalf of the citizens of the town of Plympton, we present this certificate to Sergeant John Simon of the Plympton Police Department, in recognition of his dedicated service to our country as a recipient of the United States Army Bronze Star,” said Chair Dana Smith during the presentation.
The Bronze Star was awarded for Simon’s “exceptionally meritorious service in support of combined joint task force operation inherent resolve.” The citation noted that “Captain Simon’s outstanding performance during operations in support of the coalition contributed to the overwhelming success of the command’s mission.”
State Representative Kathy LaNatra also attended the ceremony to present Simon with a proclamation from the Massachusetts House of Representatives.
“I’m honored to be here with you today. It’s my honor, my privilege to bring you a citation from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts,” LaNatra said.
Simon, who has served with the U.S. Army since 2009 and is currently a heavy weapons commander for the Massachusetts National Guard, expressed gratitude while emphasizing the importance of his team.
“This Bronze Star would be nothing without the soldiers that I run with, my leadership that came with me, and most importantly, everyone came home with us,” Simon said. “No one was injured. It was a very successful deployment.”
He also acknowledged the challenges his family faced during his absence.
“My wife was a true champion as well because she was home taking care of the household. My parents, my mother-in-law, were also taking care of the house,” Simon said. “When it comes to deployments, it’s not only tough on the soldiers, but it’s tough on the families as well.”
Simon thanked Plympton Police Chief Matthew Ahl for supporting his military service, noting the chief has been “100% supportive of everything I do when it comes to training, missions I’ve got to do, deployments.”
Following the ceremony, the Town Properties Committee presented findings from a safety inspection at the fire station, highlighting three violations that must be addressed within 30 to 90 days.
“Those three items are violations that we will be citing for,” said Ross MacPherson from the Committee. “The safety inspector noted during his inspection that they usually talk about pinch points in terms of machinery. But given that some of the bumpers of the vehicles overlap each other to try to get in, that there may be issues there.”
The violations include water leaking near an electrical panel, problems with the heating system, and floor drains in the apparatus bay that connect directly to the septic system.
“The electrical panel was put in when the water was there first. So, the electrical panel got put in and probably shouldn’t have been right in that spot,” explained John Wilhelmsen, Chair of the Town Properties Committee.
The heating system presents another challenge, with ducts located under the slab where water tends to collect.
“Water that comes off the field goes downhill. Comes to the back of the building, can come in, and of course it’s going to go to the lowest point, and that is the heating ducts,” Wilhelmsen said.
Perhaps most concerning is the floor drain issue, which Wilhelmsen described as “probably the more costly of the three items.”
“Each of the floor drains connects to the drain that’s in the bathroom that connects to the septic, which is a slight issue if we were to have a diesel spill or an oil spill in the apparatus bay because it’s draining down back behind the panel bar and into each of them,” he explained.
The timing of these violations comes just after voters rejected a $14 million proposal for a new fire station. While the measure passed at town meeting, it failed at the ballot box.
Town Administrator Liz Dennehy asked whether the inspector would have given more leeway if the fire station had been approved.
“Yes. In fact, he thought the building was approved for a new station,” Wilhelmsen responded. “And we said, well, no. We did approve it at town meeting. We did not approve it at the ballot, so there isn’t a new station going in.”
The Board of Selectmen and Town Properties Committee discussed several options moving forward, including attempting another ballot measure with better public education, scaling back the project, or starting over with a completely new design.
Vice Chair Mark Russo expressed concern about spending money on temporary fixes.
“I think the big selling point is just this, that we’ve decided I have a feeling we’re looking at hundreds of thousands of dollars to put on a band-aid when we have the best option before us,” Russo said. “We’ve spent 10 years, more than 10 years, I think it’s 12 years to get to here and to go back six years is silly.”
Committee members emphasized that renovating the existing building would likely cost more than building new.
“To do a renovation over there even if we just bolt something on, we’ve got to bring the whole building up to code,” MacPherson explained. “Any contractor is going to look at that and go, ‘well the most expensive thing in construction is the unknown.’”
The discussion also touched on improving communication with residents about the fire station needs. Dana Smith suggested using more modern communication methods.
“I think if those, say, for instance, your meeting was actually, as this is being produced on YouTube, effectively, through Area 58, if your meetings were on that, somebody could, you know, see that at 3 o’clock in the morning if they wanted to,” Smith said.
Smith emphasized the importance of making information more accessible to residents.
“I feel it’s our duty to do so in the most ways possible,” he said. “Does it have to be social media? No. Does it have to be an actual physical website? No. But could the actual meetings that you guys have be on YouTube, you know, and be more accessible to people so they understand?”
The board did not make a final decision on next steps but acknowledged the need to address the violations quickly while developing a longer-term plan.
“We need to look at it, and I think more information to people will help out as far as what people have to understand,” Smith said. “This is not going away. This is something that needs to be addressed.”
New Halifax water restrictions now in effect
Effective June 5, 2025, new water restrictions were put into place as follows:
No outdoor watering on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays.
Outdoor watering, including the use of lawn sprinklers and automobile washing, is permitted on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m.
The Board of Water Commissioners appreciates everyone’s cooperation in conserving water to avoid a total water ban.
If these restrictions are not adhered to, the following fines will be enforced:
1st Offense – Verbal Warning
2nd Offense – $50 fine
3rd Offense – $100 fine
4th Offense – TERMINATION OF WATER SERVICE AND $250 TURN-ON FEE.
The increased demand we have experienced can threaten public safety and the quality of public drinking water. In extreme cases, high water use can threaten the ability of Municipalities to store water for water pressure and fire protection purposes.
Watering during the heat of the day does not help your lawn and wastes water.
If you have a well, please visit the Board of Health office to obtain a well or irrigation well number.
This number must be posted on the front lawn to prevent the Water or Police Departments from stopping at your house to enforce this policy. For questions, you should contact the Water Department by visiting their office at 500 Plymouth Street or calling (781) 293-1733. The Board of Water Commissioners appreciates your cooperation.
Spalluzzi awarded Boston Post Cane
At a small ceremony at the Kingston Senior Center, town officials were proud to present Margaret Spalluzzi with The Boston Post Cane, signifying and celebrating that she is Kingston’s oldest resident, at 103 years young! The Boston Post Cane dates back to 1909 and Kingston has had one since 1985. Margaret’s cane is a replica of the permanent cane that is encased and securely displayed at the Kingston Town House. Her name will be added to the list of recipients.
Margaret worked as a welder at the Hingham Shipyard from 1942 to 1945 and is believed to be the last surviving World War II “Rosie the Riveter” in Massachusetts. She recently received a Congressional Gold Medal at a ceremony at the State House for her service during the war.
She is a longtime supporter of the Council on Aging, attending lunches and classes weekly, and a dedicated member of The Friends of the Kingston Council on Aging.
Congratulations, Margaret!
Pictured (L-R): Assistant Town Clerk, Janna Morrissey; State Representative Kathy LaNatra, Margaret Spalluzzi, Town Administrator, Keith Hickey; Director of Elder Affairs, Holly Nighelli
1.6 MW solar project host agreement approved
Justin Evans
Express correspondent
The Halifax Board of Selectmen welcomed new member Bill Smith and unanimously approved a host community agreement for a solar project during their May 27 meeting. Smith, a former Finance Committee member and local police chief, joins Chair Jonathan Selig and Vice Chair Thomas Pratt on the newly reorganized board.
“I promise to do my best. In my opinion, all three of us are equal partners in this,” Selig said after being named chair. “I look forward to working with them. I look forward to getting our hands dirty and trying to lead the town through good times and bad.”
The board approved a request from NuGen Capital to serve as host community for a 1.6 megawatt solar project at 69 Summit Street. The project had previously been denied under the state’s SMART program but can proceed under the net metering program with the town’s support.
Laura Frazier, managing director of business development and strategy at NuGen Capital, explained that the company needs the town to become a “host customer” to secure cap allocation in the net metering program.
“The net metering program is still, there’s still enough capacity available to place this project into the net metering program,” Frazier said. “What we are asking is if you can help us help this homeowner and this landlord help us save the project.”
Frazier assured the board that becoming a host customer carries no financial obligation or cost to the town. The arrangement would require the town to sign documents as an administrator, with NuGen Capital handling the paperwork.
Town Administrator Cody Haddad noted that while there doesn’t seem to be a negative aspect to the agreement, the board should consider whether it sets a precedent for future requests.
“You could have other private developers. It sounds like the cap is almost there, so you might not run into that issue. But if there were more capacity, you could have other private companies come in and look for the town to be a host for this,” Haddad said.
The solar project has already received all necessary approvals from town boards, including Planning, Zoning, and Conservation. Frazier estimated the project would generate significant tax revenue for the town, noting that NuGen’s existing Halifax solar project pays $45,500 annually under its PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) agreement.
Pratt emphasized the potential financial benefit to the town.
“If it’s passed A, B, C, and X, Y, Z, and now they’re just looking for a way to get to the finish line, and it means tax revenue for a town that is facing an override,” Pratt said. “I don’t know that it’s responsible for us to deny something that’s gotten this far.”
The board also discussed forming a committee to investigate a potential Proposition 2 1/2 override, citing financial challenges faced by many towns in the area.
“I think it’s no secret that going forward, essentially almost every town in our area is facing financial struggles,” Selig said. “Several have had overrides put on the ballot. If they haven’t already, they will be, probably in the following year.”
Selig suggested creating a committee with representatives from the Board of Selectmen, Finance Committee, school committees, and citizens at large to explore cost-saving measures and revenue-generating ideas.
“My thought was, does the board have any appetite to start some sort of committee to start investigating the possibility?” Selig asked. “To me, to wait until January or February to try to tackle this, when we know it’s likely coming, I think seems a little short-sighted.”
Smith and Pratt expressed support for the idea, with Smith noting, “The more people that are involved, get more opinions. It’s definitely, I believe, going to be happening, an override.”
Pratt emphasized the importance of public education about a potential override.
“I think maybe the biggest thing that a group like this could provide is just repeated and advancing education as we get closer. What it looks like, what it feels like, what impact it will have,” Pratt said.
Haddad cautioned that the committee would need clear direction and noted the town’s limited options for revenue growth.
“We’re geographically challenged in Halifax. So our revenue is sometimes new growth is challenging,” Haddad said. “There’s not a lot of options for local revenue growth that can be done at the local level.”
The board agreed to have Selig research the committee concept further and bring recommendations to a future meeting.
In other business, the board:
– Approved a revised purchasing and procurement policy, increasing the threshold for purchase orders from $2,500 to $5,000
– Authorized a contract amendment with Tighe & Bond for landfill monitoring, including PFAS testing, for $19,900
– Appointed Smith as the town’s representative to GATRA (Greater Attleboro Taunton Regional Transit Authority)
– Approved an agreement with Maria Bumpus to serve as Acting Library Director and a consulting agreement with former Director Jean Gallant
– Authorized a revised agreement with Lighthouse Legal Services for HR services
The board also heard an update on the regionalization study involving Halifax, Plimpton, and Kingston. Selig reported that the Collins Center will meet with the committee on June 18 to discuss the process, with the study being funded through a grant at no cost to the town.
25 Local Firefighters graduate from State Fire Academy
STOW—State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine announced the graduation of 25 recruits from the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy’s Call/Volunteer Recruit Firefighter Training Program.
Three from the Halifax Fire Department, Samuel Capodanno, Aiyanna Davis, and Liam Spillane were among the graduates.
The members of Call/Volunteer Recruit Class #118 trained at the Academy’s Bridgewater campus and graduated at the Department of Fire Services’ main campus in Stow. They represent the fire departments of Avon, Dartmouth Fire District 1, Dartmouth Fire District 2, Duxbury, Freetown, Grafton, Halifax, Hanson, Lakeville, Norwell, Onset, Raynham, and Westport.
“Massachusetts firefighters are on the frontlines protecting their communities every day, and today’s graduates are needed now more than ever,” said State Fire Marshal Davine. “The hundreds of hours of foundational training they’ve received on nights and weekends will provide them with the physical, mental, and technical skills to perform their jobs effectively and safely.”
“Massachusetts Firefighting Academy instructors draw on decades of experience in the fire service to train new recruits,” said MFA Deputy Director of Training Dennis A. Ball. “Through consistent classroom instruction and practical exercises, tonight’s graduates have developed the tools they’ll need to protect their communities.”
The Martin H. McNamara Outstanding Student Award was presented to Firefighter Kayla Kalamajka of Dartmouth Fire District 1. The award is named for Martin “Marty” McNamara V, a call firefighter with the Lancaster Fire Department who lost his life in the line of duty in 2003 while battling a fire in a multifamily home. It is presented to one recruit in each graduating call/volunteer training class and recognizes their academic and practical skills, testing, and evaluations over the course of the program.
Video of the ceremony will be posted tomorrow at the Department of Fire Services’ YouTube channel, www.youtube.com/dfsosfm.
The Call/Volunteer Firefighter Recruit Training Program is unique in that it delivers a standard recruit training curriculum, meeting national standards, on nights and weekends to accommodate the schedule of firefighters in suburban and rural areas. Making the training more accessible means more firefighters can participate and allows them more time to practice training skills with instructors.
The MFA, a division of the Department of Fire Services, has offered the program since 2003. More than 3,000 call and volunteer recruits have graduated since then.
Today’s Firefighters Do Far More than Fight Fires
Today’s firefighters train for all types of hazards and emergencies. They are the first ones called to chemical and environmental emergencies, ranging from the suspected presence of carbon monoxide to Fentanyl overdoses or a gas leak. They may be called to rescue children who have fallen through the ice or locked themselves in a bathroom. They rescue people from stalled elevators and crashed vehicles. They must test, maintain, and utilize equipment such as self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), hydrants, hoses, power tools, and apparatus.
At the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy, they learn all these skills and more, including the latest science of fire behavior and suppression tactics, from certified fire instructors. They also receive training in public fire education, hazardous material incident mitigation, flammable liquids, stress management, and self-rescue techniques. The intensive program involves classroom instruction, physical fitness training, firefighter skills training, and live firefighting practice.
Students receive classroom training in all basic firefighter skills. They practice first under non-fire conditions and then during controlled fire conditions. To graduate, students must demonstrate proficiency in life safety, search and rescue, ladder operations, water supply, pump operation, and fire attack. Fire attack operations range from mailbox fires to multiple-floor or multiple room structural fires.
Graduates have completed 240 hours of training on nights and weekends. Upon successful completion of this program, all students have met the national standards of NFPA 1001, Standard for Fire Fighter Professional Qualifications. In addition, they have the ability to become certified to the level of Firefighter I/II and Hazardous Materials First Responder Operations Level by the Massachusetts Fire Training Council, which is accredited by the National Board on Fire Service Professional Qualifications.
A little corner of Heaven in Plympton
Alan Wheelock
Special to the Express
Plympton has long had a beautiful and varied natural landscape – white cedar swamps, red maple wetlands, cranberry bogs, open fields, and uplands dominated by beech, hemlock, oaks, white ash, American holly, and white pine. As old stone walls running through the woods attest, much of the town was once cleared for agriculture. It has been said that, in the 19th century, the church in the center of Halifax could easily be seen by people standing at The Green in Plympton!
Slow population growth and extensive wetlands have helped large areas of Plympton remain untouched and natural. In recent years, however, the growth of the surrounding South Shore towns has ratcheted up the pressure on this 318-year-old community. Plympton residents – who consistently rate “preserving the rural landscape and character of the town” as their highest priority when they are surveyed by the Plympton Open Space Committee, have played a very active role in land conservation in the town.
During the past 15 years, new information about Massachusetts’s environment and habitat has highlighted how special Plympton’s natural areas are, and how they provide residents with economic as well as environmental benefits. Plympton’s dependence on two aquifers to support our well water and septic systems has become a top priority and concern. Given the increasing threats to our water quality, preservation of land has emerged as a key component of a long-term solution to these challenges.
Despite its small population and limited financial resources, Plympton has responded to these development pressures effectively – both in terms of acres protected and cost. Linda Leddy of West Street, who led the Open Space Committee for many years, stated that “Preserving the town’s incredible natural resources for now and the future brought together Plympton’s amazing residents to answer the challenge. Plympton people brought a huge array of talent, energy and determination to this job, making it both successful and (mostly) a lot of fun!”
During the last fifteen years, Plympton has created several beautiful and valuable conservation areas, including:
• Churchill Park and Cato’s Ridge, which covers over 104 acres and stretches from Main Street to Ring Road. It includes a large percentage of Plympton’s portion of the Plymouth-Carver aquifer, which supplies water to residents east of Main Street.
• Two Brooks Preserve, encompassing 133 acres off Winnetuxet Road, is generally regarded as one of the loveliest conservation areas on the South Shore. It is part of the Taunton River Watershed and helps protect the aquifer west of Main Street.
• Turkey Swamp, Plympton’s largest project to date, was successfully concluded in 2024 and contains 238 acres. This preserved land is of critical environmental importance, containing some of the finest white cedar swamp still existing in Massachusetts. It also creates an important natural corridor that provides a connection with the other preserves and plays a significant role in protecting the town’s aquifers and critical wildlife habitats.
Leddy noted that it has been gratifying to see the time and effort that Plympton residents have invested in preserving the beauty and groundwater of their town. She described the creativity and work that large numbers of townspeople have devoted to making these conservation projects a reality. For example, the effort to save both Cato’s Ridge and Two Brooks Preserve included fundraising events, the construction of several stunning boardwalks built primarily with volunteer labor, and the development of extensive trail systems in the park – again relying heavily on the work of committed volunteers. Today, the parks are often used by local families out for a walk in the woods, bird watching, and, in a large portion of the land, hunting.
Turkey Swamp was helped immensely by a state program entitled the Municipal Vulnerabilities Program, a forward-looking effort by Massachusetts to help mitigate the growing impact of climate change. Leddy led a significant effort to garner support from the state – ably assisted by Wildlands Trust and Bill Napolitano from SRPEDD (Southeastern Regional Planning and Economic Development District). That work resulted in Plympton being awarded a $500,000 grant from MVP – the largest grant in the history of the town. That grant, combined with funds from the Plympton Community Preservation Committee, allowed this large and vitally important piece of wetland to be preserved in perpetuity.
All three of these preserves have received strong support from Plympton’s Community Preservation Committee, as well as from more than 100 generous private donors and contributions from charitable organizations.
Mark Russo, Chairman of the Community Preservation Committee and member of the Board of Selectmen, has played a key role in supporting and advocating on behalf of this long and sustained effort to preserve land.”
In a recent summary of Plympton’s newest (2024) Open Space and Recreation Plan, referring to these three preserves, it was stated that: “These 475 acres have been permanently conserved for a total purchase price of $1,034,725, or $2,176 per acre.” Leddy also said, “The other key point is that NO general tax funds have been used to pay for the $1 million in preserve acquisition costs. Our strategy from the beginning was to work with partners to bring a variety of funding sources to the goal. As a result, 41% came from state grants, 33% from CPC, and 24% from generous donations by individuals and charities.”
Leddy concluded that, while much has been accomplished, much more remains to be done. In 2012, Plympton had just 1% of its land protected – the lowest in the state. With these new preserves and related projects by land trusts having come into existence, 10% of Plympton’s land area is now protected. However, the average percentage of preserved land in Massachusetts towns is 27%. Residents interested in learning more about how to protect their land are encouraged to reach out to any member of the Plympton Open Space Committee or the Plympton Conservation Commission.
Healey- Driscoll administration declares “Growing Wild ” program for Massachusetts
Massachusetts Expands Free Growing Wild Starter Kit Program to 27 Locations; DCR, MDAR, and MNLA Encourage Residents to ‘Pledge Your Garden’ and Help Restore Pollinator Habitats
BOSTON – The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), Department of Agricultural Resources and the Massachusetts Nursery and Landscape Association (MNLA announced the launch of the fifth year of the Growing Wild program, encouraging the public to preserve and protect pollinator habitats by inspiring residents to plant native species and pledge their gardens in support of pollinators. To commemorate this initiative, Governor Maura Healey proclaimed May 30 as “Growing Wild Day” in Massachusetts, marking a major milestone in the state’s expanding effort to protect native species and restore pollinator habitats.
As part of this year’s program, Growing Wild is offering free pollinator starter kits at 18 nurseries and six DCR parks across the state. Additionally, DCR, for the first time, has partnered with Hassanamisco Nipmuc Band, Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe, and Herring Pond Wampanoag Tribe to offer plants to Indigenous communities for their use and enjoyment. Native plants like Milkweed and Joe Pye Weed are valued in Indigenous culture and traditions. In honor of the program’s fifth year, state and local leaders will gather at Rogers Spring Hill Garden Center in Haverhill for a public launch event celebrating the program’s continued growth and impact across the state.
“Growing native plants and attracting pollinators in our gardens is a great way to show our commitment to protecting nature and wildlife,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “The Growing Wild program helps us to transform lawns into safe havens for pollinators like bees and butterflies. I am proud to be a part of the Growing Wild community and to use native plants in my own backyard.”
As part of this year’s initiative, and in celebration of the start of National Pollinators Month in June, Growing Wild is offering free starter kits that include two one-gallon native perennial plants, native seed packets, and educational resources on pollinator-friendly gardening.
“The Growing Wild program enables us to partner with our state agency and nursery partners to give residents the tools to create and nurture their own pollinator and native plant gardens, helping make our landscapes more resilient,” said DCR Commissioner Brian Arrigo. “Through this program and the free Growing Wild starter kits, we are fostering a sense of shared stewardship of our public and private green spaces, protecting biodiversity, enhancing the natural beauty of our communities. Together, we are nurturing a brighter, greener future, one garden at a time.”
“We are excited to see the Growing Wild program grow year after year,” said MDAR Commissioner Ashley Randle. “Residents who plant native and supporting pollinators are helping to build a more resilient food system, so this kind of public engagement initiative is important for agricultural sustainability in Massachusetts.”
Pollinators—primarily bees, butterflies, and other insects—are critical to our ecosystems. Approximately 75% of flowering plants and 35% of the crops we consume depend on them to reproduce. In Massachusetts, native pollinators are essential to sustaining biodiversity and ensuring a healthy food system. Yet, these species face mounting threats from habitat loss, invasive plants, pesticide use, and climate change. Growing Wild offers residents a powerful way to help reverse this trend—one native plant at a time.
Whether using a Growing Wild starter kit or purchasing native plants independently, Massachusetts residents can help make an environmental impact by registering their gardens on the Massachusetts Pollinator Map, a growing visual record of native plantings across the state. The statewide pollinator map not only shows this collective progress but also reinforces Massachusetts’ leadership in sustainability and climate resilience.
“As green industry professionals, we’re proud to support residents in creating beautiful, healthy, and environmentally responsible landscapes,” said MNLA Executive Director Rena Sumner. “Local nurseries across Massachusetts are here to help people identify native plants and make pollinator-friendly choices that have a real impact.”
Since its launch, Growing Wild has distributed nearly 6,000 starter kits since 2021, totaling an estimated 6.5 acres of pollinator habitat across the state. To learn more, find educational materials, native plant guides, find a nursery, pledge your garden, and for a full list of participating nurseries visit the MNLA Growing Wild website, mnla.com/growingwild.
The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), an agency of the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, oversees 450,000 acres of parks and forests, beaches, bike trails, watersheds, dams, and parkways. The agency’s mission is to protect, promote, and enhance our common wealth of natural, cultural, and recreational resources for the well-being of all. To learn more about DCR, our facilities, and our programs, please visit www.mass.gov/dcr. Contact us at mass.parks@mass.gov.
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