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You are here: Home / Archives for News

Silver Lake towns weigh K-12 regionalization

July 4, 2025 By Justin Evans

The Silver Lake Regionalization Study Committee voted unanimously June 18 to request a proposal from the UMass Boston Collins Center for Public Management to conduct a comprehensive study examining the feasibility of full regionalization across three school districts.
The committee, with representatives from Halifax, Kingston and Plympton, seeks to determine whether combining their elementary schools with the existing regional middle and high school structure could generate cost savings while maintaining educational quality.
“We owe it to our residents to see if there’s some efficiencies, to see if there’s a way we can run things a little bit tighter and smoother so that we might not be in a significant crunch as we may be in,” said Jonathan Selig, committee member from Halifax.
The study comes as the three communities face mounting budget pressures and questions about educational equity across the district. Currently, each town operates its own elementary schools through sixth grade, with students then attending the regional Silver Lake Regional Middle School and High School.
Committee members emphasized that no decisions have been made about regionalization. The study represents a fact-finding mission to provide concrete data for future decision-making.
“A lot of people have certain assumptions and the assumptions may or may not be correct,” said Jon Wilhelmsen, a committee member from Plympton. “So that’s really the goal. And I think the questions I think generally are around that and there’s some things that maybe branch out. So we’ll have to kind of corral that into different buckets.”
The Collins Center team, led by Director of Municipal Services Sarah Concannon and associates Anne Wilson and Bill Lupini, outlined their approach during the meeting. Wilson, a former superintendent of Sudbury Public Schools, and Lupini, who spent 25 years as a school superintendent, bring extensive experience in school district projects.
“We really need to understand your context, understand what you would like to get from this, and to really then look and analyze each of the areas,” Wilson explained. The study would examine efficiency questions, cost savings potential and educational quality impacts.
Superintendent Dr. Jill Proulx highlighted operational challenges the district currently faces with partial regionalization. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they had to present four separate plans to the state and work with four different communities to coordinate reopening strategies.
“I couldn’t in good conscience say, these students are going to be remote, but these students, it’s okay for them to come back hybrid,” Proulx said, describing the complexity of managing multiple jurisdictions during the health crisis.
The study will include extensive community engagement, with separate public forums planned for each town to capture distinct community values and concerns. Committee members recognized the three communities have different characteristics and priorities.
“Kingston is the whale, Halifax is the bass, and Plympton is the minnow,” Selig said, acknowledging size disparities among the communities. “So those ones that are the smallest are a little concerned that they get swallowed up by the whale here.”
Focus groups will include educators, central office staff, students, union representatives, and various municipal officials including selectmen and finance committee members. The committee also plans to engage taxpayers who don’t have children in the school system.
Educational equity emerged as a key concern driving the study. Halifax School Committee member Lori Costa-Cline expressed worry about ensuring equal educational opportunities across all three districts at the elementary level.
“A concern that I have and have had for a while as a Halifax school committee member is the equity in what education we provide in each of the three different school districts,” Costa-Cline said. She wants to ensure students are “equally prepared to be at the same level when they get to seventh grade.”
The Edward J. Collins Jr. Center operates as part of UMass Boston and has completed more than 1,200 projects for over 300 organizations since 2008. The organization can contract directly with public entities without requiring a competitive bidding process, which could expedite the timeline.However, the Collins Center team acknowledged they have not conducted a regionalization study exactly like what Silver Lake is requesting, though they have worked on
related projects examining cost efficiencies and organizational structures in regional school districts.
“Nothing exactly like what you all have done, which makes it fun,” Concannon said. “We can learn together.”
The study will examine multiple factors including transportation costs, administrative efficiencies, curriculum alignment, and potential impacts on state aid. Committee members want to understand both financial implications and effects on educational programming.
Bill Lupini emphasized the importance of demographic analysis and ensuring educational equity, drawing from his experience in New Hampshire where he worked with five different school districts feeding into one high school.
“How do we make sure as kids are coming to the high school that they have opportunities to take advantage of when they get there,” Lupini said, describing a key challenge in partially regionalized systems.
The committee hopes to receive preliminary findings during the upcoming budget season to inform planning discussions. A final report would ideally be completed before the next budget cycle begins in earnest.
The Collins Center will provide a draft proposal before the committee’s next meeting scheduled for July 9. Committee members stressed the importance of having factual information to guide future decisions rather than relying on assumptions about regionalization benefits or drawbacks.
“Knowledge is power,” said Costa-Cline. “We have assumptions, but we don’t have knowledge right now. So this sets a foundation of knowledge that we can then share with the community.”

Filed Under: Breaking News, News

Sweet treats are a recipe for success!

June 27, 2025 By Deborah Anderson, Express Staff

Stephani Teran
Express staff
You may believe you have to travel to France or some far off European destination to experience truly exquisite pastries and baked goods, but locals only have to drive to Kingston or Plymouth. Upon entering either bustling location not only will you find chic and comforting interiors and friendly people that you can tell genuinely enjoy their work, but you will discover what many call the best pastry (especially croissants) outside of France. Whether meeting a friend over one of their unique and always enjoyable beverages, picking up a box of seasonal pastries to go, or placing an order for one of their coveted cakes, Keegan Kreations offers a memorable experience for everyone.
Keegan Thim Yee made his way from Ipoh, Malaysia to Boston in 1996. In spite of his culinary reputation now, Yee did not come to America with a pension for sweets or an interest in baking. In fact, both were largely unknown to him. “Growing up I was not allowed sweets. To me an apple or orange were considered treats.”
He first experienced the allure of confection in New York City where his friend ordered the Crème brûlée at a restaurant. He tasted it and immediately wanted to know how it was made. His friend later bought him a recipe book, and he began to experiment with making Crème brûlée at home. Yee had his first job as a waiter at a local Chinese restaurant. He had to overcome learning a new language and getting comfortable with a different culture, but Yee said that he always felt at home here.
Yee continued to work hard and gain experience in the food industry, but his breakthrough came when he attended a fellowship potluck in 2008 where he brought his practiced and perfected Crème brûlée to share. People quickly realized his flawless execution of the dessert and began to encourage him to pursue further education in the baking arts. Yee took their advice and began his education in Baking and Pastry at Johnson and Wales University in Rhode Island. Upon graduation he worked at the Taj Boston and this is when he began to develop his own style. He also attended The French Pastry School of Chicago for a competition in chocolate showcases. Following these experiences, Yee began working at the five-star Wheatleigh Hotel in the Berkshires. This is where he met his wife, Yilin.
At Wheatleigh, Yee refined his experience and skill in producing high quality, delectable works of art in a commercial kitchen with a high demand environment. After years of receiving positive feedback from family and friends, Yee said he found baking to be an affirmative process. “Baking is an ice breaker,” Yee points out, “You make friends over baked goods. I love seeing people love what I make.”
Yee was able to see just how many people loved what he made when he and Yilin decided to take his creations to a local farmers market. His pastries easily gained notoriety. People drove long distances for a chance to savor anything made by Yee. Soon locals were asking where they could find his pastries regularly and repeatedly suggested that he open a store front bakery. Yee did just that and opened Keegan Kreations in downtown Plymouth. He went from making dozens of pastries a week to thousands. The star pastry largely fueling his success was his croissants. For those thinking croissant making is anything but a huge feat just consider that Yee still claims croissants are the most difficult thing he makes in pastry. “Croissants are a love-hate relationship with any baker. They are still hard to perfect.” That said, anyone who has tasted a Keegan Kreations croissant can easily tell that in spite of the difficult nature of the dessert, Yee has perfected it.
Shortly after opening his storefront location in downtown Plymouth, COVID shut down many businesses. Yee was faced with the challenge of continuing to produce the highest quality products while also reaching the community in spite of the required isolations and regulations. “I think operating through COVID taught me a sense of urgency -a sense of never taking community for granted and making smart choices while also thinking about being a positive place for people in hard times. Community is also why people come to here and I won’t ever forget it.”
In addition to a strong sense of community, Keegan pastries and beverages hold their own and have become synonymous with “the best” and “the most authentic” pastries on the South Shore. When asked what makes his goods unique Yee answers, “The quality. Attention to detail. If you have twenty dollars to spend, and you spend it here, I want to make sure that you feel it was worth it. I think about my product, price ranges, and branding, too. I want it all to be the best you can find.”
Yee says he meets with a business mentor every two weeks to refine and reevaluate his approach to the goals he has set for the business. Balancing business with creating in the kitchen has not taken away from the consistent brilliance of the products. Yee said his top three selling pastries are the chocolate croissant that gained him a following, their various, often seasonally themed scones, and their strawberry breakfast toaster pastry that takes the humble, boxed breakfast pastry we grew up with and elevates it to Versailles status. “The strawberry breakfast toaster pastry is made with buttery pie dough, homemade strawberry jam for the filling, and coated with a lemon, strawberry juice and confectionary sugar glaze with freeze dried strawberries on top.”
Even the specialty drinks at Keegan reach a higher caliber. Keegan offers one-of-a-kind beverages such as Banana brûlée -an iced latte with banana foam and caramelized sugar, or a Blueberry Cheesecake Matcha -an iced matcha with blueberry puree and cream cheese foam. With items like these on the menu it is no surprise that Keegan Kreations opened a second storefront location in March of 2024 to meet the growing demands of the community. Having a second store front has required even longer hours, more hard work, and plenty of sleepless nights. When asked if there are challenges in opening a second location Yee says he is learning that it is okay if not everyone loves everything he does and that the business side of Keegan has required him to learn how to run a bakery establishment outside of the kitchen. “Patience is more important than perfection when working with others. Letting go a bit and trusting others to carry out my vision has been a learning experience for me. I am at ease with the baker role. The leader role has been harder. I have had to learn to adapt, really listen, teach, and trust. But I have a great team and I fully trust them to rise to expectations. They teach me a lot, too.”
Taking on a leadership role in addition to the duties and responsibilities in the kitchen has afforded Yee some amazing experiences in his growing business. Especially around the holidays, lines for Keegan Kreations go out the door and stretch down the street. Most locals know by now that you need to order in advance or show up bright and early to snag your intended pastry before they sell out. “Last Thanksgiving there was a line out the door and down the street. People were picking up pies and treats to take to their family dinners. To see faces, familiar and new, and hear where they were taking their pies and desserts -it brought tears to my eyes.”
Yee talks about his business and his team with such pride and gratitude that it’s impossible not to be drawn to the positive energy he has infused into already impeccable pastries. The cumulative experience keeps customers coming back regularly and many faithfully rely on Keegan to supply consistently delicious goods for their most important life occasions and celebrations. “Coming into Keegan should be an experience,” says Yee. “It is not my business; it is a community business. To be able to provide a cake for a wedding, then another to the same customer for their baby’s first birthday…this is what matters to me.”
As I sit in a perfectly moodily lit corner -the kind expected of a timeless café, watching the customers come and go with smiles, and bite into what is easily the best scone I have ever had in my life, I can’t help but see that Keegan matters to our community more than Yee could have ever imagined.
To experience the magic and genius of Keegan Kreations and support a most deserving and generous business and the wonderful people behind it, visit one of their two storefront locations:
Keegan Kreations, 20 Court St., Plymouth, telephone (774)-283-4327
Keegan Kreations, 136 Main St., Kingston, telephone (781)-422-3218
Website:
Keegankreations.com

 

Filed Under: Featured Story, News

Sen. Dylan Fernandes votes to secure funding for Cape and South Shore district

June 27, 2025 By Deborah Anderson, Express Staff

This week, the Massachusetts Legislature passed a $1.39 billion supplemental budget funded by the Fair Share surtax that represents $716 million of funding for public transportation and $593.5 million for public education across the Commonwealth. Senator Dylan Fernandes worked successfully to secure $750k in targeted investments that will directly benefit communities across the Cape and South Shore.
“Our region faces unique challenges in transportation and education, and this funding is crucial to expanding opportunities for our students and improving mobility for residents across Cape Cod and the South Shore,” said Senator Dylan Fernandes. “As the federal government reduces resources for our communities, the money we secured in this budget will have an even greater impact, strengthening the everyday experiences of residents throughout the Cape and Plymouth communities.”
Fair Share Budget Investments Secured by Senator Fernandes
● $25,000 to the Boys & Girls Club of Cape Cod
● $25,000 to the Boys & Girls Club of Plymouth
● $25,000 to the Plymouth Center for Active Living
● $25,000 to Plymouth Family Network
● $25,000 to fund a study to expand commuter rail to Buzzards Bay
● $30,000 for the Town of Sandwich through the Cape Cod Foundation
● $35,000 to See Plymouth
● $40,000 to the Pembroke Public Library
● $25,000 to the Pembroke Public Schools

● $40,000 to the South Shore Community Action Council
● $40,000 to Volunteers of America, Massachusetts, Plymouth Area Veterans Center
● $50,000 to the ARC of Plymouth and Upper Cape
● $75,000 to the Silver Lake Regional School District
● $100,000 to the Plymouth Educational Foundation
● $165,000 to Falmouth/Upper Cape YMCA
● $25,000 to Taking People Places/ Plymouth Transportation
Senator Fernandes praised the Senate bill as a transformative funding tool: “This legislation will enhance our local schools and student enrichment, increase transportation access, and expand opportunities across the Plymouth and Barnstable District. I am proud to have worked with the Massachusetts State Senate and the entire Legislature to bring these resources to our region and the Commonwealth.”
Additional Fair Share Budget Investments:
● MBTA Upgrades. $535 million for improvements and infrastructure upgrades across the MBTA system.
● Aid For Cities and Towns. $103 million for regionally equitable, shovel-ready transportation improvements.
● Regional Equity in Transportation. $73 million for regional transit initiatives.
● World Cup Preparations: $5 million for transportation improvements associated with the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.
● Special Education. $248 million for special education costs, including Circuit Breaker reimbursements to local school districts.
● Career Technical Education Capital Grants. $100 million to expand capacity and accommodate additional career technical education school opportunities, including $15 million for a pilot program to support career and vocational technical annex buildings on comprehensive high school campuses.
-More-
● EEC Workforce, Affordability, and Quality Improvement. $45 million for initiatives to support workforce development, affordability and quality improvements in the early education and care sector, including $20 million for rate increases to support early education providers.
● Literacy Growth. $25 million for high dosage tutoring to support accelerated literacy growth and success for students in kindergarten through grade 3.
● Endowment Match. $20 million for the endowment incentive match program to leverage public funds to encourage private fundraising by the state’s public higher education institutions to support accessible and affordable education programming, including $10 million for a Department of Higher Education (DHE) endowment incentive match and $10 million for the University of Massachusetts endowment incentive program.
● English Language Learning Programs. $10 million for educational grants to help speakers of languages other than English to learn English—and subsequently aid in filling in-demand jobs—by reducing the waitlist for services.
● Green SchoolWorks. $10 million for grants to eligible local school districts for clean energy infrastructure improvements and upgrades.
● Regional School Transportation. $8.1 million to support regional school transportation costs.
Having passed the House of Representatives and the Senate, the bill now goes to the Governor for her signature.

Filed Under: More News Left, News

Halifax Fireworks tradition continues

June 27, 2025 By Deborah Anderson, Express Staff

The Town of Halifax’s Fireworks Celebration, coordinated by the members of the Halifax Fireworks Committee, is scheduled for Saturday, June 28, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. behind the Halifax Elementary School, 464 Plymouth Street. A variety of activities will be available during the event such as a DJ, food vendors, face painting, and more.
The Fireworks Committee is also seeking volunteers on Sunday, June 29, to assist with post-event clean-up. If you’re interested in volunteering, please e-mail Janice Hayward at Janice.Hayward@halifax-ma.org or Susan Hill at Susan.Hill@halifax-ma.org.
In the event of inclement weather, the Fireworks display will be rescheduled to Sunday, June 29, and the post-event clean-up will take place on Monday, June 30, 2025.
This event is made possible by the support and funding from residents, guests, sponsors, and local businesses. We are thankful to all who have contributed towards continuing the tradition. If you would like to make a donation, please mail a check made out to Town of Halifax and include Halifax Fireworks in the memo line to 499 Plymouth Street, Halifax, MA 02338.
Everyone is invited to take part in watching one of Halifax’s grand community events as we celebrate our nation’s birthday alongside friends, family, and neighbors. We hope to see you there!

Filed Under: More News Right, News

Captain promoted, four EMTs sworn in firefighters

June 27, 2025 By Justin Evans

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.

Filed Under: Breaking News, News

MA House Committee on Federal Funding holds first hearing; explores federal funding cuts, broad impacts

June 20, 2025 By Deborah Anderson, Express Staff

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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Filed Under: More News Right, News

“What’s Up?” – Just ask Barry

June 20, 2025 By Deborah Anderson, Express Staff

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.

Filed Under: Featured Story, News

Hero’s welcome to Bronze Star recipient Simon

June 20, 2025 By Deborah Anderson, Express Staff

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.”

Filed Under: Breaking News, News

New Halifax water restrictions now in effect

June 20, 2025 By Deborah Anderson, Express Staff

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.

Filed Under: More News Left, News

Spalluzzi awarded Boston Post Cane

June 13, 2025 By Deborah Anderson, Express Staff

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

Filed Under: More News Left, News

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