January 2021 East Providence Reporter by The Reporter

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JANUARY 2021 Volume 17, no. 1

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The Reporter January 2021

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The Reporter January 2021

East Providence News Briefs City Council Hires Attorney to Secure Metacomet Appraiser The East Providence City Council hired the law firm of Salter McGowan Sylvia & Leonard Inc. for the purpose of hiring an appraiser for the Metacomet golf course on Veteran’s Memorial Parkway. The controversial proposal was finally passed last month after council members debated the need to hire an outside attorney to advise it on the possibility of taking the closed golf course by eminent domain. Marshall Developers bought the 138-acre property from the Brad Faxon ownership group for $7.6 million. After the council voted 4-1 to reject Marshall’s initial and ambitious zoning variance, the developer was relegated to current zoning which would allow for an amusement park, dormitories, and other commercial buildings. Eventually council members decided

On the Cover:

Hunt's Mill photo by Simone Peixinho

Inside This Issue Business Directory...........38 Church News..................25 City News......................13 Classifieds..................... 37 Healthy Living......................17

to vote on hiring an outside attorney, instead of using their own city solicitor, to guide the appraisal of the Metacomet property. The initial attempt for such a hire was rejected in a 2-2 council vote. Ward Two Councilwoman Anna Sousa was unavailable for that vote and later indicated she would support hiring an outside attorney. Council President Bob Britto and at-large member Bob Rodericks would not vote to have a second vote on the issue at that time. Ward Four Councilman Ricardo Mourato continued the matter for another vote at its next meeting at which time the council voted approval. At large councilman Bob Rodericks reiterated his position that “we should not expend taxpayer dollars on hiring another lawyer to then hire an appraiser when we can do that ourselves.” Rodericks noted that the appraiser would conduct the property appraisal and not the attorney. “The process of hiring an attorney and an appraisal firm will cost taxpayers many thousands of dollars before any major decisions are ever reached. Mourato insisted that “an outside attorney is needed to guide us through the process.” Ward Three councilman Nate Cahoon said he saw no harm in the outside attorney being hired agreeing with Mourato and Sousa. Council President Bob Britto has explicitly stated his opposition to eminent domain but said he thought it prudent to have a say in the process in the best interest of the City. “I still don’t think we need another lawyer,” Rodericks said at the December 8th meeting, “but the votes are there (to hire) and I won’t be an obstructionist. My intent now is to help hire the best qualified firm going forward.”

Four firms submitted proposals to the council according to council guidelines. The council voted 4-1 to hire the firm of Salter McGowan Sylvia & Leonard. Only councilman Mourato voted against. Although Mourato initiated the effort to hire outside legal advice, he wanted a different law firm. Mourato recommended the hiring of Jennifer Cervenka of the Cervenka, Green and Ducharme firm. Mourato was the lone dissenter to hiring the Salter firm. Britto quoted the Cervenko cover letter in its proposal which stated the firm did “not have direct experience representing a municipality or State entity in an eminent domain law…” “This firm doesn’t have the experience,” added Britto. Britto also said that he spoke with each of the firms involved and was told that “the eminent domain process would be very difficult.” Rodericks also mentioned the lack of experience with the Cervenko law firm in eminent domain cases. He cited his support for “the very clear and extensive step by step eminent domain process for Rhode Island spelled out by the Salter firm. I haven’t talked to other council members about this firm but they seem by far to be the most qualified, if we are going to hire an attorney for this, let’s hire a firm who has done this before.” Councilman Cahoon was the first to recommend the Salter firm, noting their experience and “lack of ties to established ‘mainstream’ political leaders in the state.” Cahoon also rated all of the firms using a federal contract ranking template and scored the Salter firm highest. In the end, the Salter firm was hired in a 4-1 vote. A stipulation was added to Cahoon’s motion

Letters...............................10 Library...............................36 News Briefs..........................4 Obituaries.......................32 People............................24 Restaurant & Dining.............29 School........................26 Senior Center...................35 Sports..........................30 State House..................37

Metacomet Golf Course Discussions Continue

January 2021 The Reporter to approve, by Rodericks who wanted to cap the legal cost at the previously approved council legal fee line item of $75,000. That spending limit was approved.

Rhode Island General Laws - Eminent Domain - Title 42, Chapter 64

What are some of the guidelines for eminent domain in Rhode Island? Here are some facts and figures taken from the statute: Eminent domain is an inherent and historic attribute of the sovereign power of government and has been affirmed as such by federal and state courts. The U.S. Supreme Court in Kelo v. City of New London both affirmed the use of eminent domain powers for economic development purposes and encouraged states to define and limit the exercise of eminent domain for economic development purposes. Notice: The entity shall give the owner(s) of property which may be acquired by eminent domain advanced notice of the potential taking and shall provide the opportunity to sell the property for a negotiated, mutually agreed upon price. Compensation to owners: a minimum of one hundred fifty percent (150%) of the fair market value of the real property; Expenses incidental to transfer of ownership to the acquiring entity, including, but not limited to, recording fees and transfer taxes, evidence of title and surveys and legal descriptions, penalty costs and other charges for prepaying mortgages entered into in good faith, a pro rata share of any prepaid property taxes or assessments for public utilities. (more provisions can be seen in Title 42 Chapter 64 of the RI General Laws)

What’s in an Appraisal?

As the City moves forward in the process of investigating its options with eminent domain, the first critical step is the assessing of the current value of the Metacomet property. Those in favor of taking the property from Marshall believe the value is low while Marshall Properties will maintain a much higher value. If the City votes to take the property by eminent domain, the process will end up in Court at which time a value will be established. At the time of eminent domain declaration, the City must immediately deposit funds with the Court which will be held until the final legal process plays out. City Solicitor Michael Marcello has opined that the City would have to pay Marshall a fee commensurate with the developer’s “best use” potential. Many in favor of eminent domain for open space maintain that the buyout price is closer to the city tax valuation which is lower than the purchase price. “We have discussed this over and over. Let’s find out the value. If it is out of our reach, we know we can’t do it. If it is in reach, then we know we can do it,” said Mourato.

Remaining Options with Metacomet

With the hiring of an independent law firm to guide the potential of the City procuring the Metacomet golf course through Eminent Domain, there appears to be three options for the City Council to consider. “We basically have three options in front of us,” said Rodericks. “We take the property by Eminent Domain at a price to be determined; Marshall builds a development under current allowed zoning (Plan B) or we negotiate a new plan, more in line with community opinion. I don’t think that anyone (other than Marshall) wants Plan B,” Rodericks added. “The council faces either Eminent Domain or a new development plan more in line with public concerns,” Cahoon said. As of this writing, the City Council is awaiting a signed agreement with the Salter McGowan Sylvia & Leonard law firm. “I want to make sure that this (law) firm is directly responsible to the council and no one else,” said Mourato. He was assured by Council President Britto and the rest of the council that that would be the case. The council has voted to cap legal expenses for this firm at the line item in the budget of $75,000 for extra council “legal services.” This is an amount above and beyond regular legal services approved in the budget. The council has had off and on discussions about hiring its own attorney separate from the City Solicitor. That was the original intent of the $75,000 line item in question.

City Announces RFP for Seawall Engineering Study and Design

The City of East Providence is requesting proposals for the study and design of the seawall at Crescent Park. The seawall has incurred damage over the years since it was first constructed in the early 1900s and is now at risk of collapsing. The City is seeking the immediate services of a qualified engineering firm (consultant) to advise the City on the management of the failing seawall, as well as develop conceptual repair alternatives and corresponding cost estimates. “The Park and its access to the bay are some of the city’s most treasured features,” East Providence Mayor Bob DaSilva said. “We are sad to have lost our seawall to erosion and welcome proposals that will provide a way to find the best erosion control method.” Interested parties should submit their proposal no later than Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021 at 11a.m. continued on next page...

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The Reporter January 2021

The bids should be submitted as follows: Specifications may be downloaded from the City’s website under Current Bids. http://www.eastprovidence.com/content/9457/10056/default. aspx Four (4) copies of a proposal shall be submitted in one (1) sealed envelope to East Providence City Hall, Controllers Office, Room 103, Attn: Dawn Kenney, Procurement Specialist, 145 Taunton Ave., East Providence, RI 02914 no later than WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2021 AT 11AM. The bids will be publicly recorded. Bids received with a time of 11:01 AM or later will be rejected. The envelope needs to be marked BID EP20/21-08.

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A non-mandatory onsite meeting was scheduled for December 17, 2020 AT 2PM with all interested development firms for an opportunity to discuss the project with city officials. Any questions regarding the RFP may be directed to Erik Skadberg, PE, City Engineer eskadberg@eastprovidenceri.gov or Stephen H. Coutu, P.E., Director of Public Works, scoutu@eastprovidenceri.gov in writing. The City of East Providence reserves the right to reject any or all bids/proposals and reserves the right to award the RFP to the bidder deemed to be in the best interest of the City.

Council Passes Energy Resolution

The East Providence City Council unanimously approved a resolution in December authorizing Mayor Bob DaSilva to enter into a contract with Constellation NewEnergy Inc., an Exelon company and one of the leading energy suppliers in the nation. The resolution, sponsored by Council President Robert Britto, enables the city of East Providence to take advantage of municipal savings through the Rhode Island Energy Aggregation Program, a program administered by the Rhode Island League of Cities and Towns. The program enables municipalities to negotiate lower electricity rates, energy efficiency options, green power procurement and more. The move will save the City more than $221,000 over the three-year contract. “Our administration continuously seeks opportunities that will benefit our City while providing relief to our taxpayers and this contract with Constellation NewEnergy will enable us to do just that,” Mayor DaSilva said. “We look forward to working with Constellation Energy.”

Long Time DPW Director Steps Down, City Seeks New Director

The City of East Providence is seeking a new director of public works. The opening for director of public works comes after Stephen Coutu, who has led the department since March 2001, accepted a position with the Bristol County Water Authority. Prior to his role as DPW director, Coutu spent four years as engineer/deputy director of the department where he oversaw the daily management of DPW operations, supervised and inspected work performed by contractors and engineers and reviewed all subdivisions and development projects for conformance. Coutu joins the Bristol County Water Authority as its new executive director and lead engineer. He will remain in his current role as DPW director until January and will assist in the transition of a new director. “We thank Mr. Coutu for his years of service to the City of East Providence and years of dedication to the residents of East Providence,” Mayor Bob DaSilva said. “It will be difficult to find someone of Steve’s caliber, but we will be diligently seeking someone as qualified as he to continue the department’s progress. “We wish him well on his new endeavor,” DaSilva added.

Some Requirements of DPW Position:

Salary: $100,000 to $115,000 annual (based on experience). JOB DESCRIPTION: Under the administrative direction of the Mayor, this position assumes primary responsibility for directing, administering, and coordinating the various activities and programs of the Department of Public Works. This responsible management position is a mayoral, at will, non-union appointment that is part of the Mayor’s Cabinet of Department Heads. The incumbent supervises the employees, projects, activities, and sets priorities for the following divisions: Highway, Parks, Central Garage, Public Buildings, Building Inspection, Engineering, Refuse and Recycling, Water and Wastewater Utilities, and Streetlights in order to ensure a high level of efficiency within the department and ensure compliance with the City Charter and ordinances, and related State and Federal laws. Performs related work as required.

January 2021 The Reporter Subject to the provisions of the City Charter and to administrative determination of policy, work involves full responsibility in the planning, organizing, directing the work of the public works divisions. Essential duties may include, but are not limited to the following: • Provides coordination and supervision both directly and through subordinates of approximately 100 full-time employees, and a number of part-time and seasonal employees within the Public Works Department. • Determines effective and efficient use of the labor and financial resources in meeting the operational requirements of the Department. • Develops the Department’s budget and Capital Improvement Plan, maintains financial records, and analyzes operational costs. Presents annual budget to the Mayor and City Council. • Works closely with the City Administration, Public Works Division Supervisors, and other City Departments on planning and implementing City projects. • Works with staff in the engineering and implementation of public works improvements in the City such as roadway and drainage improvements, water and wastewater utility improvements, park improvements and upgrades, and improvements to City buildings and facilities. • Develops department policy and procedures to ensure timely completion of tasks and activities in order to meet City goals and objectives and comply with City policies and procedures. • Provides regular updates and reports to the Mayor on the Department’s activities and projects, and may provide the same to City Council. • Provides for contractual oversight and administration for the collection of refuse and recycling, and wastewater operations. • Develops Requests for Proposals, Invitations to bid, and ensures compliance with purchasing rules and regulations. • Responsible for supervision of public works improvement contracts, and other contractual and/or consulting services. • Assures timely and appropriate application for State and/or Federal grant assistance when available. • Interacts with residents and businesses of the City to ensure proper service and appropriately responds to any complaints. • Plans and Directs emergency response activities such as snow storms, hurricanes, floods, water and wastewater utility interruptions. • Serves on the City’s Waterfront District Commission as a member of the Design Review Committee to ensure development projects meet appropriate engineering and design standards. Outstanding ability in administering the activities of a large, multi-faceted department engaged in public works engineering, construction, and operation. Ability to maintain cooperative relationships with employees, division and department heads, other city officials, the public, and state and federal regulatory agencies. Comprehensive knowledge of the principles and practices of civil engineering with special reference to municipal engineering. Thorough knowledge of materials, methods and techniques of public works construction. Ability to supervise a large and diverse staff, and experience with public sector collective bargaining agreements. Must possess strong communication (both verbally and in writing), and decisionmaking skills. Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from a college or university with an ABET accredited civil engineering curriculum, or an equivalent related field. Certified as a Professional Engineer in the State of Rhode Island or able to obtain reciprocity within six (6) months; preferred. Ten or more years of progressively responsible

experience in municipal public works activities, projects, and engineering; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the desired ability, knowledge, and skill. Experience in supervising staff that are part of collective bargaining agreements, preferred.

East Providence High School Continues on Track to Completion

In the midst of a global pandemic, which has involved almost every aspect of life everywhere, the often called “state of the art” new East Providence High School is just about halfway completed toward its September 2021 start date. Project Manager Sam Bradner of the Peregrine company told members of the high school building committee that “we’re 48% complete.” In a zoom type meeting broadcast over an EPSD YouTube channel in early December, the committee was given a mostly positive report. “A lot of classrooms and other areas are now recognizable,” Bradner told the committee. It is also apparent that the lengthy process to change the entrance to the school from state owned Pawtucket Avenue and accompanying changes to the plaza across the street continued on next page...

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The Reporter January 2021

from the school, is just about finalized. While a few site workers have been sidelined due to Covid testing, there has been very minimal impact on the work force the committee was told.

Roger Williams University and City Partner to offer Tuition

Roger Williams University and the City of East Providence announced an innovative partnership to provide a special discounted rate for city residents and municipal employees on all of RWU’s A fair amount of time was spent in a discussion of the process University College (UC) degree programs, as well as specialized for keeping the name of the school, its school colors of red and workforce and professional development opportunities on profeswhite and other history within the building. A signage package will sional certificates. basically carry over the school colors, the name East Providence “This new partnership between RWU’s University College and High School and other names throughout the building representing the City of East Providence is an exceptional opportunity to provide the school’s 137-year-old storied history. “We will represent the innovative educational programs that broaden access to job and historical period of Townie Pride from its inception in 1884, current skills training and spur vital economic growth in Rhode Island,” said building in 1952 and new structure for 2021,” said Bradner and RWU President Ioannis Miaoulis. “I want to especially recognize project managers. The building committee was glad to support UC Dean Gena Bianco, East Providence Mayor Bob DaSilva, and such historical carryover. The committee will meet again on January city officials William Fazioli and Napolean Gonsalves for their com11, 2021 at 6:30 PM and can be viewed on YouTube. mitment to this partnership.” Through this unique partnership, East Providence residents and municipal employees will have access to 18 associate and bachelor degree programs and a wide-ranging portfolio of certificates to advance their educational and professional development. The special discounted tuition program will provide savings of $250 or more per 3-credit course off UC’s already affordable tuition rate. Residents and municipal employees can choose from: Bachelor Degrees: Community Development, Cybersecurity & Networking, Emergency Medical Services, Paralegal Studies, Public Administration Associate Degrees: Associate of Arts, Criminal Justice, Early Childhood Education Certificates: Corporate Communication, Digital Forensics, Health Services Administration, Nurse Paralegal, Public Safety “These are just a few examples of UC’s award-winning programming, which recently ranked No. 7 in the nation for 2021 Best Online Colleges for Return on Investment by OnlineU (formerly Guide to Online Colleges). Courses are delivered in-person, online and hybrid format (both in-person and online) through UC’s Providence Campus at 1 Empire Plaza. Building a skilled labor force is a vital part of our City’s future and thanks to RWU and our collaboration with the many employers in our community, we will have additional resources in which to continue to build a skilled workforce,” Mayor Bob DaSilva said. RWU’s University College and the City of East Providence are also working on a range of workforce and professional development programs designed to meet the Providing Orthodontic care in needs of residents and local businesses. This includes programs in the construction South Attleboro / / Vineyard Haven trades, business, medical and legal fields and more,” said the joint press release. (508) 761-5230 / (508) 336-3066 / (508) 693-3766 Information on full program offerings at RWU’s University College, visit https://rwu. edu/uc. To learn more about the special proRead Our Reviews! gram for city residents and municipal employees, connect with the UC Admissions * Seekonk location is minutes from our former East Providence location! Office at (401) 254-3838 or uc@rwu.edu.

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The Reporter January 2021

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Speed Cameras Coming to School Zones

Speeding in the school zones is evident. However, we have noticed that the warning lights at the Kent School location on Pawtucket Ave. are flashing even when school is not in session. As a result, drivers often don’t take it seriously. It would be helpful only to have these on when necessary. Also, speeding is a problem even outside of school zones. Hugh & Cheryl Campbell

Platt-Watters School Complex

This letter was originally sent to Bob DaSilva, Mayor City of East Providence on November 29, 2020 Community dialogue and analysis shows considerable concern for the plan to demolish the Platt-Watters School complex. A broad spectrum of neighbors, civic and local business leaders are calling for the immediate pause of efforts to demolish the complex due to concern of irreparable harm their demolition will cause to the long-term prosperity of the Riverside community.

Location Matters

The Platt-Watters complex is located 1000 feet from the area commonly known as Riverside Square. In their former life, the school buildings served as a critical cog in the economic engine for The Square. The in-and-outflows of school children on a regular basis funnelled hundreds of families into The Square, providing opportunity for regular engagement with the local business community just a stone’s throw away. The closure of three elementary schools in immediate proximity to The Square has removed a substantial volume of visitors to the area and by extension their spending power. The CDC study “Beyond Neighborhood Food Environments: Distance Traveled to Food Establishments in 5 US Cities, 2009–2011” established that the median distance from home to sit-down restaurants was 1.4 miles and compared with 0.6 miles to fast food/convenience stores. In fact, 45% of sit-down restaurant visits and 55% of fastfood and convenience store visits happen less than 1 mile from a person’s residence. The proximal importance of housing to

January 2021 The Reporter food establishments comes at a time when household sizes have steadily declined. Thus as household sizes decline, as they have in Riverside, the importance of housing density increases in order to maintain the viability of commercial centers. The Sierra Club has a calculator for measuring the effect of density on various outcomes. For every residence per acre, .5 neighborhood service and retail jobs are created. Thus 8 residences on 2 acres would create 4 neighborhood jobs, whereas an alternative scenario of 25 residences on that same two acres would create 12 new, local jobs. By extension, 12 full-time equivalent jobs provide adequate staffing for two neighborhood restaurants (for example). On a tax revenue basis, those two neighborhood restaurants can be expected to contribute a minimum of $7,000 annually in food and beverage tax revenues and additional $5,000 in tangible taxes.

Tax Revenues

There is a strong case to be made for the redevelopment of the Platt-Watters complex as a condominium or apartment project, within the existing buildings, solely on a new tax revenue basis. Scenario One: 8 Single family homes Demolition: -$350,000 Sale of 8 Lots: 8 x $70,000 = $560,000 Annual tax revenues on 8 SFH at $350,000 = $57,652/yr 5 yr Internal rate of return: 79% Scenario Two: 25 Condos Environmental Remediation: -$250,000 Sale of remediated school buildings: $500,000 Annual Tax revenues on 37 condos at $225,000 = $206,127/yr 5 yr Internal rate of return: 153%

Land Use

The Platt-Watters complex comprises two acres of land. The complex can currently support nearly 80 parking spaces between the existing buildings, more than enough for 2 spots per residential unit on a 37 unit condo project. There is an opportunity to reclaim as much as 15,000 to 25,000 sqft of currently paved asphalt as green space. The City could propose that the developer of the complex preserve the 10,000 sqft of currently paved space at the corner of Arnold St. and Burnside Avenue for a community pocket park, owned and maintained by the developer, but accessible to the public.

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The 2017 Riverside Square Market Analysis recommended that the City “continue to involve partners – property owners, business owners, residents, civic leaders and stakeholders – in the efforts to revitalize Riverside Square.” To date, the Riverside community leaders have received zero direct communication from the City with respect to Platt-Watters School complex. This is a disrespectful practice at best, and in effect, serves to blindside business and community leaders and their efforts to revitalize an economically challenged community. We are not an invisible hand that shapes the community. We are the very visible evidence of the prosperity of our community. Nothing less than our direct efforts are restoring Riverside. We continue to invest our time, resources, and in almost all cases, our hearts in the Riverside community. Direct engagement with the doers of this community will lead to tangible improvements for all. It already has. Open doors to us, don’t shut them.

Dominos

Riverside Square has been stuck in a continued on next page...

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The Reporter January 2021

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rut for the better part of the last two decades. Take a stroll down memory lane on Google Street View to refresh your memory and to see how far we’ve come. One doesn’t need to spend more than a few minutes in the area of The Square to see how much farther we can go if we continue to push dominoes in sequence. • Borealis Cafe (2016) • 332 Bullocks Pt Ave (2017) | Proud Mary’s (2018) | Union Burrito (2019) | Fuse & Spark’ patio (2020) | Union Burrito Cantina (2021) • 269-279 Bullocks Pt Ave (2020) | Fuse & Spark store front (2021) | The Elementary Builder (2021) • Vamco (2021) • Platt-Watters complex (2022) • Any number of the currently blighted or underutilized commercial spaces that dot our communities landscape There is a reason that the Buckett’s building languished for years in disrepair, just as there was a reason Vamco’s RFP didn’t solicit responses year after year until 2020. There was a leadership vacuum in Riverside Square before the entrance of Brian Dwiggins in 2016. Brian’s Borealis Cafe created the opening necessary for The Apiary and its lenders to see a prosperous future in The Square. The success of The Apiary’s first project on Bullocks Point Avenue created the comp necessary for the more ambitious Buckett’s building redevelopment adjacent to Union Burrito. The type of incremental prosperity being seeded into The Square is accessible and contagious, but it needs people (moderate density) and space to continue growth (¼ acre to 2 acres lots). Take projects out of sizing sequence; Vamco before Buckett’s and progress stalls. Don’t allow the highest and best use, 3 residential units vs. 7 residential units on the 2nd floor of Bucketts; and the bank doesn’t provide construction financing. Create 8 single family homes on Platt-Watters; Fuse and Spark’s storefront can’t open. Worse yet, ignoring highest and best-use on 2 acres a stone’s throw from your next large development domino and the incremental comp for the next size-up development doesn’t exist. Progress stalls across the board. As the metaphorical dominos fall, the cultural capital grows commensurately in strength. The restaurants add local musicians to the Saturday night routine. The Christmas tree lighting grows from a two hour affair to a weekend long winter festival. The one way street gets shut down for the Sunday street arts festival. We become “the destination” for cyclists instead of the stop-over for coffee enroute to “the destination”. Community doubt becomes confidence.

Time

Representative Gregg Amore and family wish you a Happy and Healthy New Year!

Doors leading to economically and culturally stronger communities open and close all the time for myriad reasons. What needs to be crystal clear to our City’s political leadership is that at this moment, leaders with vision, experience, and resources are at the door in Riverside. The only thing that will slow, but hopefully not stop, our “Riverside Renaissance” is poor political leadership. Leaders without vision. Leaders without the ability to confidently and clearly articulate the path forward to our community. Your civic and business leaders are standing by. Now, today, is the day to correct the course at The Platt-Watters School complex and allow us to get back to doing our work restoring the cultural center of our Riverside community. Ruarri Miller, Principal @ The Apiary, Co-Owner @ Union Burrito and Fuse & Spark

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January 2021 The Reporter

City News The City of East Providence and the EP Prevention Coalition Awarded Five Year, $625K Grant

The City of East Providence and the East Providence Prevention Coalition (EPPC) were awarded a five-year Drug Free Communities (DFC) grant from White House’s Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). One of five communities in the State of Rhode Island to receive an award this grant cycle, the City of East Providence has a proud history of substance misuse prevention efforts, establishing the East Providence Prevention Coalition in 1987. The DFC prevention funds will support effective and evidencebased prevention strategies, enhancing EPPC’s impact within the community. The DFC program provides grants to community coalitions to strengthen the infrastructure among local partners to create and sustain a reduction in local youth substance misuse. “East Providence is so honored and blessed to have been awarded this DFC grant that will, for at least five and perhaps 10 years, give us the tools we need to combat the important issue of substance misuse prevention among our youth,” EPPC Coordinator Madeline Marlow said. “This grant award is a testament to the EPPC’s leadership and our City’s and community’s commitment to create a healthy and safe environment for all of our youth,” Mayor Bob DaSilva said. East Providence will build on its record of success, and will rely on its coalition (EPPC) to mobilize partners from across the

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The Reporter January 2021

community with the ultimate goals of advocating for policy changes and implementing environmental prevention strategies that reduce youth substance misuse. In order to continue that record of achievement, the City of East Providence and the East Providence Prevention Coalition must enlist the help and support of the entire community towards the goal of reducing youth substance misuse. “This DFC grant will expand the amazing work by the East Providence Prevention Coalition,” East Bay Recovery Center Director Tommy Joyce said. “By bringing together local, community stakeholders, we can together assist those who have substance use disorders and provide crucial prevention programs to the youth in East Providence. “The East Bay Recovery Center is looking forward to collaborating with the EPPC by offering peer support services, with links to clinical- and medication-assisted services to support individuals with substance use disorders, as well as providing family support,” Joyce added. The Coalition has collaborated on policy changes such as the placement of a 24x7 medication disposal box at the East Providence Police Station, compliance checks, and the implementation of responsible alcohol sales and service trainings. Additionally, EPPC has developed community awareness campaigns and parent education to shift the community norm away from the inevitability of underage substance use or underage substance use as a “rite of passage” for youth. Recognizing that local problems need local solutions, DFCfunded coalitions engage multiple sectors of the community and employ a variety of environmental strategies to address local drug related problems. Coalitions are comprised of community leaders, parents, youth, teachers, religious and fraternal organizations, healthcare and business professionals, law enforcement and media. By involving the community in a solution-oriented approach, DFC also helps those youth (at risk for substance misuse) recognize the majority of our Nation’s youth choose not to use drugs. “We know that evidence-based prevention efforts are the most effective way to reduce youth substance use and to support the roughly 90 percent of American youth who do not use drugs,” Director of National Drug Control Policy Michael Botticelli said. “By bringing together schools, businesses, law enforcement, parent groups and other members of the community, DFC-funded community coalitions are helping to protect youth from the devastating consequences of nonmedical prescription drug use, heroin and other substance use.”

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Seeking Relatives of EP Veterans with I-195 Bridge Memorials

by Susan Cady epvme@hotmail.com Interstate 195 divides the city of East Providence. The expressway was opened to traffic from the Washington Bridge to the East Shore Expressway/ Wampanoag Trail on December 15, 1959. It was not until August 1960 that this freeway, as we know it today, extended to the RI/ Mass. state border and continued into Mass. In Dec. 1959, Governor Christopher Del Sesto tasked the new E. Prov. City Council to name the thirteen bridges that crossed the highway “in honor of individual service men and women from East Providence who have sacrificed their lives in World War II or in Korea.” A committee was formed and between Dec. 1959-January 1961, the public submitted names of veterans to receive a bridge memorial and submitted suggestions to name the freeway. The bridge names committee presented their report on July 18, 1961 with the names of 28 veterans and a map with 14 memorial sign locations. Each bridge is named for two men. These pairs are: Edward Burke, Gilbert Perito, John McDowell, Frederick Slade, Edward Pike, Philip McQuade, Edward Jocelyn, Manuel G. Silva, Thomas McLynch, Mark Gilbert, Frank Maciel, John Webb, Eugene Fontes (has a daughter), Emanuel Gracie Jr. (has a son), John Braga, William Halton, Joseph Crowley, Daniel Thomas, Gustaf Soderlund, Andrew Martin, James Garvin, Charles Storm Jr., Clifford Jackson, Gordon Reid, Robert Holtzmann, George P. George, Robert Leighton and Arthur Lusignan. The freeway was named as the East Providence Veterans’ Memorial Expressway (EPVME). A double dedication ceremony occurred on Veterans’ Day, Nov. 11, 1961. Does anyone have photos to share from this dedication ceremony and/or photos of the bridge memorial signs? Do you know any of the men listed above or are you a relative? Do you know any of these veterans’ family members? If so, please contact the families to let them know they are invited to the re-dedication ceremony for these memorial signs and the naming of the expressway on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021 at Pierce Memorial Football Stadium / Pierce Field. Also short biographies will be written about these veterans. Their family and friends are encouraged to share life and military details and photos with Susan to help record and preserve this EP history. View https://sites.google.com/view/epvmer2021 to learn more about the preparations underway and items and volunteers needed for this special Veterans’ Day celebration. 2020 marked the end of WWII 75 years ago (1945) and the beginning of the Korean Conflict 70 years ago (1950). 2021 marks the 60th year since the dedication of the bridge memorials and its name as the EPVME. Now 60 years later, the bridges along the EPVME have been replaced or fortified. Of the 14 original sets of signs, only 2 pairs exist with single signs at 4 locations. This full set of signs has been missing for over 20 years and forgotten. An effort has been made to restore the missing memorial signs. To document the efforts of all the citizens of East Providence who served our country in many military events and to keep them from being forgotten, a virtual military service honor roll has been compiled since Oct. 2019. Just as the public was asked to submit a veteran’s name for a memorial bridge, the public is asked to submit military information about past and present E. Prov. residents who served in World War II to the present. Submit -”in memory of” or “in honor of” last name, rank, first name, middle name or initial, war or name of the military event served in (or years, country, peace time, active duty, etc. ), branch of service, optional: awards, medals, etc. If a WWII veteran, did this veteran attend EP High School? yes, no, do not know - to EPVME@hotmail.com. You will receive a reply to confirm the submission. Submission deadline is Oct. 1, 2021. This military service honor roll is posted on the East Providence Historical Society’s website, ephist.org.

January 2021 The Reporter

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The Reporter January 2021

DPW Releases Chip-A-Tree 2020/2021 Christmas Tree Recycling Program

East Providence, R.I. –The East Providence Department of Public Works will be collecting and chipping Christmas trees for use as mulch for City projects. Residents have the option of dropping off trees or curbside collection.

Christmas Tree Drop Off Dates and Locations

Dec. 28, 2020 - Jan. 22, 2021 at the following locations

Agawam Field, Hull St. Playground , Pierce Field, Central Ave Playground, Silver Spring Playground, Kent Field, Riverside Rec Field, Grassy Plain Park, Sabin Point Park, Carousel Parking Lot

Christmas Tree Curbside Collection Jan. 11, 2021 – Jan. 22, 2021

East Providence Historical Society News

John Hunt Museum - 65 Hunts Mills Road - 02916 The EP Historical Society is on winter break until the 2nd Sunday in March but Hunt’s Mills is always open for your pleasure and exercise. We thank all of you who brought ornaments to dress up the trails and trees on the grounds - fun for all of us to find! We will leave up the decorations a little longer this season so if you have things you would like to contribute, please do. We sincerely thank all of you who have stopped by at open houses, offered help for the community garden project and supported us through this trying time. We have made lots of new friends - see you all in the Spring! Please visit ephist.org for further information.

• Place trees at the curb for collection • Please remove all ornaments, lights and stands • TREES ONLY please • No wreaths, garland, roping or artificial trees • Trees will be collected by city work crews and chipped • They are NOT collected with your weekly trash pickup For questions or more information, please contact DPW Program Coordinator, Donna McMahon at (401) 435-7701 Fax: (401) 434-1725.

East Providence/Seekonk Rotary Club to Host “Ask A Banker” Event

Area Businesses, Public Invited to Attend Zoom Event featuring Branch Managers from Local Financial Institutions

Has COVID-19 forever changed the way we bank? What are the key trends emerging in banking for 2021? Is the use of cash a thing of the past or are we fast becoming a cashless economy? How can business owners get their PPP loans forgiven? Will mortgage rates stay low in the New Year? Thse questions and more will be answered by a panel of local banking experts at the upcoming “Ask A Banker” event, hosted by The Rotary Club of East Providence/Seekonk. The event, which is free and open to the public, will take place via Zoom on Wednesday, January 27, 2021 from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm and will feature local financial industry professionals, including Scott Haggerty, assistant vice president/branch manager of The Washington Trust Company in Rumford. The event will be moderated by William Francis, financial advisor with Edward Jones Investments in Riverside. “We are so fortunate to have these professionals as members of our Rotary Club, and also as members of the East Providence Area Chamber of Commerce,” states Betty Galligan, president of The Rotary Club of East Providence/Seekonk, owner of Newberry Public Relations and Marketing, Inc. of Riverside, and past chair of the Chamber’s board of directors. “Their collective knowledge is a great asset not only to our Club and Chamber members, but to any business owner, accountant, financial officer, mortgage lender, or anyone who wishes to tap their expertise on banking topics by attending our event. How often can you just pick up the phone or meet with a busy banker these days to ask them a question? Their time is so valuable, and we are honored that they are participating in this panel discussion to help inform the community at large.” Registration deadline for the event is Monday, January 25, 2021. To register for the East Providence/Seekonk Rotary “Ask A Banker” event, please visit https://epseekonkrotary.org/ or contact Lori DiPersio at (401) 578-5317 or ldipersio24@gmail.com. A Zoom link will be sent to all registrants prior to the event date. Questions for the panelists may be submitted to Lori in advance.

Elves in photo: Cheryl and Jeff Faria.

East Providence Knights of Columbus Blood Drive Sunday, January 24th • 9am-2pm

“The East Providence Knights of Columbus, Council 1528, in cooperation with the Rhode Island Blood Center is once again hosting a blood drive on Sunday, January 24, 2021 from 9 AM to 2 PM at the Columbus Club Hall at 3200 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence, RI. Each donation can save three lives! Due to the pandemic restrictions and guidelines, appointments are necessary this year. Making an appointment is easy! Visit the Rhode Island Blood Center website (https://www.ribc.org) or call them at (800) 283-8385 for more information about giving at this drive.”

January 2021 The Reporter

Healthy Living Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is characterized as a type of depression that is related to changes in seasons, typically tied to the start of fall and persisting into the winter months. We know that depressive disorders do not take holidays and this time of year can be stressful. For individuals who suffer from or are at risk for depression, though, the impact of holiday stresses and pressures can be much more severe than the momentary frustrations that almost everyone experiences. Typical symptoms of SAD, sometimes referred to as winter depression, may include the following (Mayo Clinic): • Feeling depressed most of the day, nearly every day • A lack of energy • Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed • Feeling sluggish or agitated • Oversleeping or having problems with sleeping • Social withdrawal • Feeling hopeless, worthless or guilty • Substance abuse Recently, more people are willing to engage in more meaningful conversations regarding mental health, but that has not always been the case. Many of the same symptoms listed above are commonly associated with warning signs of suicidal thoughts or behavior, the second leading cause of death for ages 10 – 24 in Massachusetts. The Jason Foundation, a nationally recognized leader in youth suicide awareness and prevention, has developed a program designed to help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues and suicide. #IWONTBESILENT is an awareness campaign to raise the conversation on suicide prevention and mental illness, allowing open conversation regarding these serious subjects. Visit www. iwontbesilent.com to learn how you can become involved and make a difference within your community. Creating an environment where people of all ages feel comfortable to talk about their struggles is an important step in preventing unnecessary tragedies. Contrary to a prevalent myth, suicide rates do not peak during the holiday season. However, depressed individuals are hardly immune from either depressive episodes or suicidal ideation during this time. If you or someone you love is struggling with depression and/or thinking about suicide, get help now. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-TALK (8255), is a free resource that is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for anyone who is in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.

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Quit Smoking or Using Other Tobacco for the New Year

With the New Year approaching, and the COVID-19 pandemic making it ever more important to stay healthy, you may want to make a resolution for a healthier life for you and your family. If you want to quit smoking or using other tobacco products and tried in the past, don’t give up. Many users say quitting is the hardest thing they’ve done. Help is available, so keep trying! The Massachusetts Smokers’ Helpline at 1-800-QUIT NOW (1-800-784-8669) is available for free coaching 24 hours each day, seven days a week (except Christmas) to support you through quitting. In addition, now you can enroll online through makesmokinghistory.org. Online supports include quit planning tools, peer support and motivational text messages. Also, new this year, the Massachusetts Smokers’ Helpline is offering up to $50 in gift cards to Massachusetts residents who use menthol tobacco products and participate in coaching services! For more information, visit makesmokinghistory.org or contact Morissa Vital at mvital@sevenhills.org, 774-634-3955, or Facebook.com/SETFCP. Make the choice to quit today, making the holidays and New Year tobacco free.

January 2021 The Reporter

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The Reporter January 2021

2021 City of East Providence

Department Public Works Refuse & Recycling Division 2021 Curbside Collection and Drop Off Information Thank You for your patience during

the trash cart distribution process. The fully automated collection system has contributed to the neat appearance on collection day and a reduction of rodent and insect problems.

60 Commercial Way • 401-435-7701 Self-service drop off for special/bulky items: DPW Complex at 60 Commercial Way

Mon-Fri 7:30am-3:30pm

Trash Trash is collected weekly in your gray trash cart. Items that do not fit such as appliances, bulky items and mattresses are collected by appointment—see the Large Item Collection section. No trash overflowing, nor should trash bags be placed on ground. Accumulation of material or waste on the ground will result in a fine of $50 per day the violation exists for first violation. Only trash produced by residents at their home should be in the trash carts. Additional carts maybe purchased if needed. No trash shall be placed out for collection before 3 p.m. on the day prior to the scheduled collection. Failure to comply will result in a fine of $50 per day.

Recycling Recycling is collected bi-weekly in your blue recycling cart—see the schedule on opposite page. Recycle the following four categories, and nothing more: 1) paper, cardboard (flattened) and cartons 2) metal cans, lids and foil 3) glass bottles and jars and 4) plastic containers. Recyclables must be loose inside the cart. NO PLASTIC BAGS, including bags of bags or recycling inside of bags! To learn more, visit rirrc.org/mixed-recycling. Cardboard Tip: If flattened cardboard doesn’t fit in your cart, tuck pieces smaller than 3’x5’ under the cart lid (do not tie). See Cardboard in Self-service drop-off section.

Electronic Equipment: T Vs, radios, computer and audio components, small appliances such as toasters, blenders, hairdryers and anything with a plug are accepted in the containers located to the right of the gate. Motor Oil & Filters: Uncontaminated used motor oil can be deposited in the Oil Igloo. Oil filters can be left in the designed barrels. Antifreeze: in the blue “antifreeze only” container. Auto Batteries: Leave near the Oil Igloo. Cooking Oil: Used vegetable cooking oil can be deposited into the blue collection container provided by Newport Biodiesel. The cooking oil is processed into biodiesel at their Rhode Island facility. Cardboard: Flattened cardboard can be dropped off in the “cardboard only” dumpsters. Propane Tanks: All sizes from small camping tanks to grill tanks. Scrap Metals: Anything primarily made of metal, big and small, such as: metal hangers, pots, pans, cookie sheets, chains, file cabinets, microwaves, bikes, poles, and metal furniture. Some appliances are accepted. Books: Drop off into the designated collection boxes. Rigid Plastic: such as garbage cans, little tykes toys, coolers, milk crates, lawn furniture etc. No PVC or vinyl. Only items listed above can dropped off at the DPW Complex. If other items are left, it is considered illegal dumping.

Curbside Collection Information & Policies: Yard Waste: is collected in paper yard waste bags or barrels labeled with “yard debris” stickers. These free stickers are available at City Hall Engineering Office and the DPW Office, M-F, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. Yard waste is collected April through December, weather permitting. Holiday Delays: If your regular collection day falls on or after a holiday (in green on reverse), collection will be delayed by one day for the remainder of the week. This applies to trash as well as recycling and yard waste during the scheduled collection weeks. Weather Delays: Collection delays due to winter storm events or other unexpected events will be posted on the city’s website, social media channels, TV, and on the office voice mail message: 401-435-7701. NO RECYCLING CART, NO TRASH PICKUP! If your recycling cart is not out on a recycling collection week, your trash will not be collected. Recycling carts that have too many unacceptable items will not be collected and per city ordinance, may be imposed a $50 fine.

Large Item Collection

Picked up by Appointment Appliances: are collected the second Saturday of each month. A $25 recycling sticker must be purchased at City Hall by 10 a.m. on the preceding Thursday. Includes washers, dryers, refrigerators, freezers, stoves, hot water tanks, air conditioners, gas grills, etc. Bulky Items: are collected every Friday by appointment only please call 401-435-7710. Includes furniture and rugs/carpeting that are cut to 4’ lengths and rolled and tied. Place items on the curb the night before collection.

January 2021 The Reporter

Consider donating to local organizations or please call RI Donation Exchange at 401-831-5511. Bulky items placed at the curb without an appointment or prior to 3 p.m. the day before collection may result in a fine of $50 per day.

Paint: Visit www.paintcare.org for convenient drop off locations for latex and oil-based paints and stains. Empty latex cans or hardened latex paint can go into the trash cart (NOT recycling cart) — leave the lids off to show that the paint is hardened. See the Household Hazardous Waste section below for other options.

Mattresses & Box Springs: are collected only on scheduled Saturdays by appointment, please call 401-435-7701. There is a fee of $25 per piece, with a limit of two pieces or one set, per household. Free Drop Off Events are held once per month at the DPW complex, weather permitting, from March to December. Please call 401-435-7701 for dates.

Clothing & Textiles: Donate clean, dry and odorless textiles by bringing them to one of the City sponsored Kiducation collection boxes located at: Agawam Field, Fuller Creative Learning Center, Community Center and Walgreens on Warren Ave. You can also donate them to other local charitable organizations.

What do I do with...?

Household Hazardous Waste: The Eco-Depot is a free service for properly disposing of household items that are considered hazardous waste from all RI residents. Examples include paint, pesticides, fertilizers, pool chemicals, cleaners, mercury devices, gasoline and polishes.

The following items are not collected curbside nor accepted at the city’s self-service drop off. Options are listed below. Tires: Most local tire businesses charge a small fee.

The City will co-host an Eco-Depot event with Resource Recovery on Saturday, August 14, 2021 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the DPW Complex, 60 Commercial Way. Appointments are required by visiting rirrc.org/ecodepot or by calling 942-1430 ext. 241. The full event schedule and other examples are listed on the Eco-Depot website.

Construction Debris and Fencing: City residents are responsible for the disposal of all materials associated with home construction, demolition, renovations and fence replacement. Construction debris can be taken to the Central Landfill in Johnston (401-942-1430) or call private collector for disposal — fees apply.

Holiday and Recycling Collection Calendar 2021 January 2021 Sun Mon Tue Wed Thurs Fri Sat 1 2 3

24/ 25 31

April 2021 Sun Mon 4

11 12

Tue

Wed Thurs Fri Sat 1 2 3

17 24

18 19

25 26

July 2021 Sun Mon

Tue Wed Thurs Fri Sat 1 2 3

October 2021 Sun 3

Mon 4

Tue Wed Thurs 5

Fri

Sat 2 9

24/ 25 31

Holidays January 1st New Years Day and January 20th Martin Luther King Day No trash or recycling collected one day delay remainder of the week.

Yard Waste collection begins, first week of April! Earth Day 51th Anniversary April 22rd. Help keep East Providence clean and green. Volunteer for Earth Day cleanups.

Holiday July 4th Independence Day observed on Monday July 5th, no trash, recycling or yard waste collected one day delay remainder of the week.

Holiday October 11th Columbus Day. No trash, recycling or yard waste collected one day delay remainder of the week.

Recycling collection days

Holiday No collections one day delay remainder of the week.

February 2021 Sun Mon Tue Wed Thur Fri Sat 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Holiday February 15th Presidents Day No trash or recycling collected one day delay remainder of the week.

May 2021 Sun

Mon

Tue Wed Thurs

Fri

Sat 1

23/ 24/ 31 30

August 2021 Sun Mon Tue Wed Thurs Fri Sat 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

14Eco

-Depot

November 2021 Sun Mon Tue Wed Thurs Fri Sat 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Holiday May 24th Memorial Day. No trash, recycling or yard waste collected one day delay remainder of the week. Please note May 31 is not a Holiday. Holiday August 9th Victory Day. No trash or yard waste collected one day delay remainder of the week. August 14th Eco-Depot Hazardous Waste drop-off event. Holidays November 11th Veterans Day observed And November 25th Thanksgiving. No trash, recycling or yard waste collected one day delay remainder of week.

Office: 60 Commercial Way East Providence, RI 02914 Mailing Address: 145 Taunton Avenue

March 2021 Sun

Mon Tue Wed Thurs Fri Sat 1 2 3 4 5 6

13 20

Flag Day June 14th.

June 2021 Sun Mon

Tue Wed Thurs Fri Sat 1 2 3 4 5

September 2021 Thur Sun Mon Tue Wed s Fri 1 2 3

Sat 4

December 2021

Sun Mon

First Day of Spring March 20th!!

Tue Wed Thurs Fri Sat 1 2 3 4

18 25

First day of Summer June 20th. Please remember to use trash and recycle carts at City parks, playgrounds and events this Summer.

Holiday September 7th Labor Day. No trash or yard waste collected one day delay remainder of the week.

December 1318th Last week for Yard waste collection.

Office Phone: 401-435-7701 or 401-435-7710 E-mail: eprecycle@eastprovidenceri.gov

The Reporter January 2021

EP Knights of Columbus Honor RI Veterans Columbus Club Comes Through in Pandemic Year

By Bob Rodericks Grand Knight of council 1528 and the RI state ROVAC coordinator The East Providence Knights of Columbus Council #1528 as well as Columbus Club publicity director. “This pandemic year continued its tradition of providing the residents of the RI Veteran’s has been difficult for many, but we still managed to collect gifts for Home in Bristol with clothing, toiletries, and other vital necessities our Veteran’s Home residents,” said Perry last month. “Actually, for Christmas. ROVAC stands for Remember Our Veterans at we were quite pleased that we had the largest truck delivery (to the Christmas. Operation ROVAC is a giving-mission that was started Veteran’s home) in the 7-year history of this volunteer program. In by Big Blue Bug’s Tony DeJesus. DeJesus is an East Providence fact, we had already delivered a carload of supplies and gifts by High graduate and EP resident. “He has been a longtime employee Thanksgiving,” said Perry. of Big Blue Bug Solutions, and his mission to give back to the community’s veterans is inspiring and generous,” said company management. Also teaming up with DeJesus is another East Providence High graduate and resident, Steven Perry. Perry is also the

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January 2021 The Reporter Our East Providence Council 1528 was joined by Knights from 28 other Councils and two assemblies statewide with donations and this year Mayor Bob DaSilva attended, providing a significant donation. By supporting us on his Facebook page, the Mayor influenced several other East Providence citizens to come by with donations of clothing and toiletries throughout the holiday,” added Perry. “The Council had to make numerous changes in the structure of the annual event due to COVID safety regulations and the weather and we still managed our largest delivery in our 7-year relationship with the Veteran’s Home,” said Perry. The local volunteers were surprised but excited to learn that the national “Supreme Knights of Columbus Club” sent a video crew to Rhode Island to record a documentary on the ROVAC program. RI State Deputy David Quinn, other State Officers and Directors, and head Knight Perry were interviewed and filmed throughout the donation weekend last month. “Thanks to the tremendous effort and support of our EP council and others statewide, we delivered a record donation to our deserving veterans,” said Perry. Although the Covid 19 pandemic has limited the scope of their work, Perry and his fellow Knights were successful once again in remembering local veterans at Christmas time. Some of the items collected were board games and playing cards, socks, underwear, comfy pajamas and slippers. Also sweats, sweaters, gloves, jackets, scarves, clothing, books and other gift sets. The Rhode Island Veterans Home is a 110-acre complex on Mount Hope Bay in Bristol with about 208 beds. The home provides nursing and residential care to Rhode Island war veterans. Some of the services provided include social, medical, nursing and rehabilitative services. “We’ve gradually grown every year and from filling up two SUV’s a few years ago, we now fill up a few 20-foot-long panel trucks with new gifts for these deserving heroes. One hundred percent of all donations get to the Veteran’s Home and we do our best to honor our veterans,” said Perry. Steve Perry and his volunteers are already discussing ways to make next year’s effort even bigger.

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The Reporter January 2021

People In The News Marie Ghazal of Rumford Honored with $50,000 Murray Family Prize

As Executive Director of the Rhode Island Free Clinic, Ghazal has helped thousands of struggling Rhode Islanders obtain affordable health care

Ghazal serves on the Rhode Island Action Coalition’s Future of Nursing: Campaign for Action and has also served in leadership positions at Providence Community Health Centers, Blackstone Valley Community Action Program, Central Falls Health Center and the Pawtucket Heart Health Program. “It is important to celebrate the positive contributions of Rhode Islanders like Marie who are striving diligently and humbly to serve others,” said Neil D. Steinberg, the Foundation’s president and CEO. “We are grateful to the Murray family for honoring the remarkable leaders whose dedication improves the lives of those around them and provides hope.” The Murray Family Prize was launched in 2017. The previous recipients are the late Rob DeBlois, founder of the UCAP School in Providence; Joe Garlick, executive director of NeighborWorks Blackstone River Valley in Woonsocket; and Eileen Hayes, executive director of Amos House in Providence. The Rhode Island Foundation is the largest and most comprehensive funder of nonprofit organizations in Rhode Island. Working with generous and visionary donors, the Foundation raised $47 million and awarded $56 million in grants to organizations addressing the state’s most pressing issues and needs of diverse communities in 2019. Through leadership, fundraising and grant-making activities, often in partnership with individuals and organizations, the Foundation is helping Rhode Island reach its true potential. For more information, visit rifoundation.org.

Marie Ghazal Providence, RI – The 2020 Murray Family Prize for Community Enrichment at the Rhode Island Foundation has been awarded to Marie Ghazal, executive director of the Rhode Island Free Clinic in Providence. With the honor, Ghazal received $50,000 in recognition of her long commitment to helping Rhode Islanders with cultural and language barriers and economic challenges obtain affordable health care. There are no restrictions on the use of the money. “Marie’s passionate commitment to serving the community around her is an inspiring standard for others to follow. We take enormous pride in honoring her for her drive and her achievements,” said Paula McNamara, daughter of Terrence and Suzanne Murray, who along with her family established the Murray Family Prize for Community Enrichment at the Foundation. A resident of Rumford, Ghazal has been executive director of the R.I. Free Clinic since 2010. Under her leadership, the Providence nonprofit organization has expanded access to health care, dental care, specialty services and training to provide 10,000 patient visits annually, as well as opening a COVID-19 test site this year. “I have dedicated my nursing public health career to increasing access to health care for those in need. I am deeply honored to be recognized by the Murray Family for the impact my work has made in addressing inequalities in health care in our state, especially in our minority and underserved communities,” said Ghazal. A corps of more than 800 volunteer doctors, nurse practitioners, nurses and medical support staff help provide care. In addition, Ghazal has successfully secured the partnership of key partners including CVS Health, Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island and Amica among many others. “What could be a better purpose in one’s life than working with R.I. Free Clinic staff, volunteers, donors and partners who are so deeply committed to our mission and making someone’s life happier and healthier” she said.

David Bachrach Receives Paul Poulos Award

The City of East Providence’s Community Development Director, David Bachrach, was presented with the Paul Poulos Achievement Award at the National Community Development Association’s (NCDA’s) New England Regional Annual Meeting, held recently. The award was established by the New England region of NCDA in 1996, in honor of Paul Poulos, the late Executive Director of the Fall River David Bachrach presents at a meeting of the East Providence (MA) Community Development City Council Agency, and former national Photo Source: David Bachrach President of NCDA. The award is given annually to an individual in recognition of their outstanding and dedicated contributions in the field of community development. The nominating committee, which is comprised of former Poulos Award recipients, selected Bachrach as this year’s honoree for having dedicated his professional career to addressing the needs of low income individuals and families. Bachrach has been working for the City of East Providence for more than fifteen years. “David is a state-wide leader in advocating for affordable housing, and has assisted hundreds of residents over

January 2021 The Reporter the years through his community’s housing rehabilitation program,” said Patrick Sullivan, Director of Planning & Community Development for the City of New Bedford, MA, and spokesman for the Poulos Award committee. “When he’s not helping residents with home improvements, he’s working to provide heating assistance and emergency shelter to residents in need.” “I am humbled and honored by this recognition and will continue to strive to accomplish significant impacts for my community,” said Bachrach. A longtime member of the NCDA Region I Board of Directors, he also currently serves as the co-Chair of NCDA’s national economic development committee. He routinely moderates and participates on panel discussions on the regional and national level for NCDA, and has been involved with the organization for over twenty years, beginning with his work in community development in Taunton, MA.

Allison Gower from Rumford Achieves Fall 2020 Dean’s List at Belmont University

Nashville, TN -- Allison Gower qualified for the Fall 2020 Dean’s List at Belmont University. Eligibility is based on a minimum course load of 12 hours and a quality grade point average of 3.5 with no grade below a C. Approximately 55 percent of Belmont’s students this semester qualified for the Fall 2020 Dean’s List. Belmont Provost Dr. Thomas Burns said, “Achieving the recognition of Dean’s List during the Fall 2020 semester is an extraordinary achievement. While we are always impressed with students’ who are able to achieve this high level of recognition in their academic endeavors, those students that reached this mark in Fall 2020 demonstrated incredible diligence and commitment to their academic work during very unusual and stressful circumstances. We are so pleased to be able to recognize their efforts and our hope is that these students will continue investing in their studies to equip them for a lifetime of learning and service.”

CHURCH NEWS Haven United Methodist Church News

1. In-Person Worship - Sunday @ 9:30 am. For your safety, we will be following CDC and State guidelines. Bring your mask and join us! Please use the rear parking lot entrance. Services are livestreamed at https://www.facebook.com/havenumchurch and uploaded to our Haven UMC YouTube channel at https://www. youtube.com/channel/UClVVJzFnBq-QAU-UNaRbk0Q/featured . 2. Thrift Store Open - We are open on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of every month. Face masks and contact tracing are mandatory. For more information, contact the church. 3. Do you or your group/organization need a place to hold meetings? Sporting events? Activities? Conferences? We have OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE as well! We have a variety of spaces available from small to large, including a gym. We have an elevator and chair lift for accessibility. Contact the office for room sizes, availability and suggested donations. Haven United Methodist Church, 200 Taunton Ave., E. Providence, RI. Call 401-438-4911 or email havenumchurch@yahoo.com for more information. Pastor’s Office Hours are Monday, Tuesday and Saturday from 9am to 12pm and by appointment. Church Office hours are Monday thru Wednesday from 9:30am to 4:30pm and Thursday from 9:30am to 2:30pm. Visit our website at www. havenumchurch.com.

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Matthew McGhee Named to President’s List at Plymouth State University

Plymouth, NH - Matthew McGhee of Riverside, RI, has been named to the Plymouth State University President’s List for the Fall 2020 semester. To be named to the President’s List, a student must achieve a grade point average of 3.7 or better for the Fall 2020 semester and must have attempted at least 12 credit hours during the semester. McGhee is a Interdisciplinary Studies major at Plymouth State.

Jacob Cunha Named to Dean’s List at Plymouth State University

Plymouth, NH - Jacob Cunha of East Providence, RI, has been named to the Plymouth State University Dean’s List for the Fall 2020 semester. To be named to the Dean’s List, a student must achieve a grade point average between 3.5 and 3.69 during the Fall 2020 semester and must have attempted at least 12 credit hours during the semester. Cunha is a Nursing major at Plymouth State.

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The Reporter January 2021

SCHOOL NEWS Scholarship Applications Available

East Providence residents who are high school seniors or who are undergraduates in an accredited college, community college, technical or vocational school are eligible to apply for a scholarship from Scholarship Foundation (SF) of East Providence. Students who live in East Providence and attend public, private or parochial school in another location, or who are home-schooled, are eligible to apply. Last year SF of East Providence awarded more than $208,000 in scholarships. Each student receives a scholarship package of at least $1,100. Due to the challenges associated with the pandemic, students are strongly encouraged to apply as soon as possible. In order to complete the application, high school students will have to contact their guidance counselor to complete a section, and enrolled students will need to contact their college bursar to order transcripts. All information is due by the deadline and applicants need to allow time for receipt of these essential documents. Applications for graduating seniors are available in the guidance offices at East Providence High School, St. Mary’s Academy Bay View, St. Raphael Academy, LaSalle Academy, Bishop Feehan, Bishop Hendricken, St. Andrew’s, Barrington Christian Academy, Providence Country Day and The Jacqueline M. Walsh School for the Performing and Visual Arts. Applications can also be completed online and printed from the Scholarship Foundation’s website, www. sfofepri.org. Applicants can contact Susan Jordan, Scholarship Foundation Senior Awards Chair, at 401-437-0062 or schol.foundation.ep.suejordan@gmail.com. Completed senior application must be postmarked by March 19, 2021. A different application is needed for students already attending a college or career program. Enrolled applications are not available at high schools. Enrolled applications can be completed online and printed from the Scholarship Foundation’s website, www.sfofepri.org. Scholarship Foundation Enrolled Awards Chair is Debbie D’Arezzo. She can be contacted at 401-433-5745 or ddarezzo@ epschoolsri.com. Completed applications for enrolled students must be postmarked by April 1, 2021.

Hennessey Heroes Bring in the Year 2021!!!

Hennessey Elementary School students and staff are ready to begin the year 2021 showing that we are dedicated to do what it takes to continue to rise in all that we do. As Hennessey Heroes we know the importance of giving back and working to make the world a better place. Our community participated in the Good Deeds Jubilee sharing our good deeds with the Feinstein Foundation. Our core value focus for the month of December was gratitude and giving back. Kallie, a 4th grade hero believes, “Gratitude means you are thankful for what you have and thankful for what others do for you. I am grateful for everything my family and teachers do for me.” Mrs. MacDonald shared her story of gratitude with our community and we were inspired by her words and story of courage and recognized her as our Hennessey Community Hero for December. Our core value for the month of January is Goal Setting, and heroes are looking forward to writing and achieving their goals not just for January but throughout the remainder of the school year. Spirit Days have been at an all-time high with engagement from our in person and distance learners as we celebrated our favorite spirit day of the year with Pajama Day. 4th grader, Guillianna thinks pj day is a fan favorite because “kids like to dress up comfy.” She likes the spirit days because “everyone in school dresses up together and the same.” The spirit days certainly do bring us together as a school community! We are happy and proud to announce that we have more than doubled our amount of positive office referrals from last month to this month and hope to increase those numbers for the second half of the school year. As Hennessey Heroes we know the importance of ALWAYS being SAFE, RESPECTFUL and PROUD!

Feinstein Golden Ticket Winner at Waddington Elementary

Congratulations to Sophia, a 5th grade student in Mrs. Kettle’s class, who had the winning Feinstein golden ticket #00481. Sophia not only won a $5000 grant for Waddington Elementary School but also a $500 grant to a charity of her choosing. She has chosen to award the grant to the RISPCA.

Tomas is ready for PJ Day

Kayden showing his school spirit.

Mrs. Creighton and Ms. Carr love school spirit days

Brayden with his positive office referral

January 2021 The Reporter

Orlo Elementary School News Captions

Teachers and Families Recognized at Martin Middle School

Congratulations to the amazing educators and families at Martin Middle School! Martin Middle School has set up a recognition program for teachers and families to be honored during the school year. The teachers and families receive a sign on their lawn to recognize their efforts. The following educators have gone above and beyond and they have been recognized by their peers, as well as parents and students. Special shout-out to Mrs. Richardson, Mrs. Marshall, Ms. Maciel, and Ms. Dugan for the positive difference they make each day! In addition, the following families have stepped up and been recognized for going the extra mile, The Varela Family, The Giroux Family and The Martins Family. GO WILDCATS!!! #WildcatPride #TowniePride

Our 4th graders at Orlo Elementary School made cards for the hospital and nursing homes!

St. Luke’s School Announces Honor Roll

The following East Providence residents have achieved Honor Roll status at St. Luke’s School in Barrington for the recently completed trimester. Grade 6 Honors with Distinction: Avery Amarelo. First Honors: Abbie Luther, Emma Joy Pacheco, Aidan Peterson. Grade 7 Honors with Distinction: Charlotte Alvarez, Siena Rietheimer, Monica Scimeca. First Honors: Elaine Joy, Alyssa Karalekas, Bruce Sao Bento. Grade 8 Honors with Distinction: Nathan Olson, Tyler Rose. First Honors: Braedon Ellis. Second Honors: Dylan O’Connell.

Local Students Receive Honors at Saint Raphael Academy

Saint Raphael Academy congratulates students from the East Providence who have achieved honor roll status for the first quarter marking period in academic year 2020-21. They are:

Highest Honors

Grade 9: Olivia DeMacedo (Rumford), Isabel Sullivan (Rumford) Grade 12: Elijah DaCosta (Rumford), Michael Furtado, Jr. (E. Providence), Lauren Reilly (E. Providence)

First Honors

Grade 9: Zoe Clark (Rumford), Olivia Langello (Rumford) Grade 10: Daniel Rocha (Riverside), Ethan Wright (Riverside) Grade 11: Adam Aguiar (E. Providence), Diana Lopes (E. Providence) Grade 12: Lucas Amaral (Rumford), Santiago Molina (Rumford), Madelyn Paquette (E. Providence), Jeffrey Pimental, Jr. (Rumford), Emily Ryder (Rumford)

Second Honors

Grade 9: William Fitzgerald (Rumford), Noah Lopes (E. Providence), Zack Whitehead (Rumford) Grade 10: Jake Araujo (Riverside), Jonah Costa (E. Providence), Amber Francisco (E. Providence), Arun Thomas (E. Providence) Grade 11: Meghan Cabral (Rumford), Samuel Clark (Rumford), Samuel Costa (Riverside), Miles DeMacedo (Rumford), Jazmyne Hall (Rumford), Spencer King (Riverside), Elizabeth Murphy (Rumford), Nathan Pires (Rumford) Grade 12: Julia Carvelli (Rumford), Reily Whitehead (Rumford)

The Reporter January 2021

All-State Chorus and Band at Martin Middle School

green, wore holiday socks, dressed as elves and reindeer during the week. Students, teachers and families sent in pictures with their holiday spirit and the school created a video to share out with the community. This was one of the many ways the Martin Middle School Community demonstrated it’s Wildcat and Townie Pride. Here is the video link: https://youtu.be/yOHW75jMekI

Congratulations to Sadé Williams and Ty Messier for making All State Chorus and Band this year! Thank you to Mrs. Pimentel and Mr. Rappa for all of their hard work and commitment to OUR KIDS. Music is alive and well and it is in great hands because of their leadership and the support of all of the amazing students and families at Martin Middle School!

Holiday Spirit at Martin Middle School

Even though all students and staff at Martin Middle School were home for distance learning the week before Christmas Vacation, the school participated in a Holiday Spirit Week. Students and staff had a different theme each day and dressed in red and

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January 2021 The Reporter

Dining Guide

Dine Out or Take Out! Or Try a Recipe at Home...

Filling Family Comfort Foods

(Family Features) Just the thought of comfort foods is often enough to warm the soul, especially as cool winds blow and temperatures drop. When cooler weather calls for hearty meals to give your family a warming boost, you can turn to simple shortcuts for comforting flavor without skipping on quality. It’s hard to go wrong with a casserole on a chilly day. This Chicken and Rice Casserole with Spinach and Mushrooms is made with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. Because it takes just 20 minutes to make, this recipe is easy to put on the table quickly and may become a new family favorite. Plus, you only use a couple of dishes to prepare, which makes for a simple cleanup after a filling meal. Parmesan Stuffed Peppers with Rice is the perfect recipe if you are looking for a tasty dish that’s a little outside the box. It’s an Italian spin on a classic dish using a variety of cheeses packed into colorful bell peppers. You can preheat the oven while completing the minimal preparation then bake to a bubbling, golden perfection. The convenience, taste, texture and quality of Success Brown Rice as one of the main ingredients in these recipes helps make mealtime a cinch. In fact, any variety can be used in this recipe, including white rice, quinoa and more. Its “Boil-in-Bag” cooking process provides a satisfying shortcut as you simply add water to a saucepan, drop the BPA-free bag into the water, boil for 10 minutes and remove with a fork for a no mess, no measure timesaver. Visit SuccessRice.com for more comfort food recipes.

Chicken and Rice Casserole with Spinach and Mushrooms Prep time: 10 minutes / Cook time: 10 minutes / Servings: 4

• 1 bag Success Brown Rice • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese • 1 tablespoon chopped Italian parsley • 1 tablespoon olive oil • 1/3 cup chopped onions • 2 garlic cloves, minced • 1/2 package (4 ounces) mushrooms, sliced • 1/4 cup white wine • 4 cups baby spinach leaves • 2 cups shredded, cooked chicken breast • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Prepare rice according to package directions. In small bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan and parsley; reserve. In large skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Add onions and garlic; saute 2 minutes. Add mushrooms and wine to skillet. Continue cooking 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add spinach and chicken. Stir until spinach is wilted and chicken is heated through, about 2 minutes. Stir in rice, salt and pepper. Serve casserole topped with dollops of reserved cheese mixture.

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Parmesan Stuffed Peppers with Rice

Prep time: 15 minutes/ Cook time: 30 minutes / Servings: 6

• 2 bags Success Brown Rice • 2 cups (or 1 can, 15 ounces) tomato sauce, divided • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided • 1/4 cup basil pesto • 3 large bell peppers in assorted colors, halved lengthwise • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced

Preheat oven to 425 F. Prepare rice according to package directions. Add 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce to greased 13-by-9-inch baking dish. In bowl, toss rice with remaining tomato sauce, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese and pesto. Divide rice mixture evenly among peppers. Place stuffed peppers in prepared baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and remaining Parmesan cheese over peppers. Cover with foil; bake 18-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender, filling is heated through and cheese is melted. Remove foil. Broil 3-5 minutes, or until cheese is golden brown. Garnish with fresh basil.

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The Reporter January 2021

Sports roundup By Bob Rodericks

Townie nation turned out in big numbers last season during the boys run toward a state title. Only parents of seniors can attend games this season.

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Rhode Island Interscholastic League sports continues to be on a roller coaster ride due to the Covid 19 Pandemic. Now that fall sports were all curtailed with a few exceptions, it is the winter sports whose scheduling is in question. The Governor’s “pause” lasted for three weeks and ended on December 20, 2020. According to state officials, “the Pause was implemented to keep COVID-19 hospitalizations below hospital capacity limits and to reduce community transmission of COVID-19 by significantly dialing down overall mobility and reducing social gatherings.” The Rhode Island Interscholastic league for boys and girls sports states that the Governor will allow for low and moderate risk winter sports to begin practicing on January 4, 2021: basketball, gymnastics, ice hockey, indoor track & field and swimming. Football, wrestling and other close contact sports are still on hold except for some minor practicing. The state guidelines for schools further said that “students in pre-school through eighth grade should continue in-person learning. Districts have been given the flexibility to implement limited opening plans for high schools. The updated unified calendar, recently published by the Rhode Island Department of Education, provides superintendents with additional flexibility to implement their distance learning plans if they determine it is necessary to do so just before or after the winter break. All schools should still be offering in-person learning options for multi-lingual learners and differently-abled students. Parents and guardians should consult their student’s school district website and other communications for further detail. Following the holiday break, schools should begin returning students in-person by January 7, 2021. All students should return to in-person learning no later than January 15, 2021.” East Providence Athletic Director Gregg Amore is busy juggling all of the changing local and state guidelines for the hundreds of high school and middle school student athletes anxious to return to competitive sports. “Our athletes will participate in boys and girls basketball and indoor track, as well as swimming and gym-

January 2021 The Reporter nastics this winter. It will be the first time we have actually had a gymnastics team since the 70s,” replied Amore. “There will be a new hockey co-op with Mt. Hope HIgh set to begin after 2 years with Moses Brown. Swim is virtual. Our athletes swim alone and compare the times to a team swimming at their home pool at the same time. We will attempt to show all the games at our gym on YouTube as we will be restricting attendance to our senior parents only,” added Amore. East Providence High boys and girls basketball programs will be starting up in January unless the Rhode Island Health Department and Governor notice a significant uptick in the number of Covid cases. Townie boys basketball coach Joe Andrade, returning RI Coach of the Year, is trying to balance the team practice and schedule with Covid restrictions. “It’s a difficult time, but we are doing our best,” said Coach Andrade. The Townies are coming off a tremendous 201920 season when they made it to a packed house at CCRI in Warwick for the semi-finals. Earlier last year, EP upset LaSalle in overtime to reach the semis. Entering statewide playoff action, the pandemic abruptly cut the season short. The 2021 season has Division 1 set up with 17 teams. “We are in the North East with Mount Pleasant, LaSalle, Barrington, Shea, Cumberland, Woonsocket, Smithfield and PCD. We’ll crossover and play NK and Classical,” said Andrade. The other half of the league is the south; N. Kingstown, Hendricken, Cranston East, Classical, Central, S. Kingstown, Narragansett and Westerly. The four top teams in each division may make the playoffs. The league will require players to wear masks and to celebrate less with as much social distancing as possible. Coaches are encouraged to keep “pods” of 16 and not “swing” players between junior varsity and varsity. The Townies final roster isn’t set yet but after losing 7 seniors from last year’s squad, coach Andrade will have returning All-State caliber senior Brian Taylor and also Chris Vieira and Ilyas Torres. Sophomore max Collins and exciting freshman Trey Resendes will also join the team. Resendes led Riverside Middle School to the MS championship game last season. “I’m trying to add a non-season game in this shortened schedule and get our guys prepared. We are a very young team and I will have to play these guys. We will be prepared as best as we can and the players should get valuable experience for next season also,” said the coach. When asked about overall potential, the mild-mannered coach repeated a phrase he used at last years playoff. “Oh, we’re here to play and here to win.”

Townie nation was out in force at LaSalle last season. Only parents of seniors can attend games this year.

EP Boys Coach Joe Andrade, 2020 RI Coach of the Year, keeping his players focused.

Date Jan 15 Jan 18 Jan 23 Jan 25 Jan 27 Jan 29 Feb 2 Feb 4 Feb 6 Feb 10 Feb 12

EPHS Boys Schedule To Date:

Time Games 6:00PM EP at Mt. Pleasant High School 7:00PM EP at Tiverton High School TBD La Salle Academy at East Providence High School TBD at Cumberland High School TBD at Woonsocket High School TBD Barrington at East Providence High School TBD Providence Country Day at East Providence High School 7:15PM at Smithfield High School TBD Shea High School at East Providence High School TBD at North Kingstown High School TBD Classical High School at East Providence High School

The Reporter January 2021

OBITUARIES Death Notices • Eliza Cope Harrison,84, died peacefully at home in Rumford, RI, on November 24, 2020. • Joseph Palmieri, 88, of East Providence passed away on Tuesday, November 24, 2020 at Orchard View Manor. • Helen, L. (Couture) Darling, passed away on November 24, 2020 at home with her family. • Jane E. Wolf, 94, passed away on Wednesday, November 25, 2020. • Marilyn (Littlejohn) Washington, 76, of Springhill, FL (formerly of Providence, RI), passed away after a lengthy illness, on Monday, November 30, 2020, at Springhill Rehabilitation Center in Brooksville, FL. • Maria Jose Rodrigues, 91, of Vine St., East Providence, passed away Saturday morning December 5, 2020. • Wilfred “Will” Lander, 80, of Riverside, passed away Tuesday Dec. 8, 2020 at Kent Hospital. • Elaine A. Layton, 76, of Riverside passed away on Thursday, December 10, 2020 at her home. • Cecelia, P. (Rutkowski), Maynard, of Riverside, died on December 12, 2020 from complications of Covid-19. • Linda A. Whelan (Cornish) 89 of Riverside, RI passed away on December 12, 2020. • Gladys Panzarella, 93, long life resident of East Providence, passed away on Friday, December 13, 2020. • Maria C. Andrade, age 103, died Monday, December 14th 2020 at home with her loving family by her side. • Mary A. Perry, 98, formerly of Woodward Ave., East Providence, passed away peacefully Monday afternoon, December 14, 2020 at St. Elizabeth Manor, Bristol. • Thomas Edgar Pitts died on December 14, 2020, at the age of 96. • Ellen M. Buegling, 94, a long-time resident of Rumford, RI passed away peacefully at Tockwotton on the Waterfront on December 17. • Gerald J. “Jerry” Roderick, of Unity Ave., passed from this life on Thursday morning December 17, 2020. • David Varnum Abbott - David was born in Manchester, CT on July 9, 1959, and lived there until he graduated from Manchester High School. • Leonie (Cote) Lacroix 98, of Wampanoag Trail, formerly of Woonsocket, passed away peacefully in the Elderwood at Riverside Nursing Home. • Chloe A. (Housley) Paulhus, of Rumford, a retired Blue Cross & Blue Shield employee, died December 19, 2020. • Dianne Leshay Isenberg, 73, passed away Tuesday, December 22, 2020. • Manuel Tavares Jr., 93, of Bay Spring Ave. Barrington and formerly of East Providence died December 22, 2020 at the Miriam Hospital.

Joseph Leonardo Cunha

Joseph Leonardo Cunha, passed away December 2,2020 at age 68. Born in Graciosa Azores ,son to late Jose & Erunidina(Melo) Cunha. He was the beloved husband to Michele(Lopes) Cunha for over 33yrs. Besides his wife he leaves 3 sons. Joshua J Kassed of North Kingstown, Joseph R Cunha of Pawtucket and Matthew J Cunha also of Pawtucket,3 grandchildren Trey, Jace and Adriana all of East Providence. Joe also leave behind his beloved sister Maria J Cunha of East Joseph Leonardo Cunha Providence. Joseph worked for The United States Postal Service for over 46 yrs before relocating Florida. He was a Letter Carrier for most of those 46 yrs. Delivery Supervisor for a few years. Joe was loved by many friends , family and Postal customers. He also was served in the United States Air Force. Services will be private in Florida. A Memorial Service will be held in East Providence this coming Spring.

Raymond H. “Peepa” Reed

Raymond H. “Peepa” Reed, 84, of Rehoboth passed away on Sunday, December 13, 2020. He was the husband of the late Jean L.M. (Kohler) Reed. Born in East Providence, he was a son of the late Flavius and Georgiana (Cabral) Reed. Mr. Reed was a co-owner and operator of Bahry & Reed Inc. In addition to his family he loved to cook, eat and garden. He leaves two daughters, Raye Reed-Olarte of Seekonk and Kimberly Caisse of Rehoboth, seven grandchildren, four great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He was the father of the late Lori O’Brien-Foeri-Rossi and the brother of the late Isabel Raymond H. “Peepa” Reed Papa and Mary Farrell. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, December 18, 2020 at 10:00 AM in Our Lady of Loreto Church, 346 Waterman Avenue, East Providence. Burial will be private. In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made to; Catholic Memorial Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation, 2446 Highland Avenue, Fall River, MA 02720.

January 2021 The Reporter

Joan M. Neary

Now Selling Firewood

Casey Daniels, Proprietor

Joan M. Neary Joan M. Neary, 79, of Rehoboth, passed away on Tuesday, December 29, 2020 at Sturdy Memorial Hospital. She was the wife of the late James J. Neary, Jr. Born in East Providence, she was a daughter of the late Francisco and Mary (Santos) Gomes. Mrs. Neary was a customer service representative for Speidel for many years before she retired. She enjoyed reading, watching cooking shows and game shows and solving word search puzzles. She leaves two daughters, Patricia Ferreira and her husband Jonathan, with whom she made her home and Colleen Bellamy and her companion David Swanson all of Rehoboth, three grandchildren, Kathleen Fitzgerald, Marguerite Bellamy and Madison Ferreira, four great grandchildren, Jaelyn, Ava, Penelope and Maddox, her lifelong friend Lee Moreira and many others, many nieces and nephews and her two favorite dogs, Tonka and Luke. She was the sister of the late John S. Gomes, Barbara V. Casale and William J. Gomes. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at a day and time to be announced.

401-474-0515 • 774-565-0775 We hope you enjoy receiving our paper each month! Please support your local businesses because they make this newspaper possible!

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The Reporter January 2021

Linn Health & Rehabilitation Receives $1 Million Grant to Transform Business Model CARES Act state funding to be used to create 11 private rooms to help control spread of COVID-19 and other infections; launch new home- and community-based services program

Linn Health & Rehabilitation, a nonprofit skilled nursing, rehabilitation and long-term care community in East Providence, is one of eight nursing facilities in the state to be awarded a $1 million grant from the Executive Office of Health and Human Services. The grant is part of Governor Raimondo’s Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) Resiliency Program created in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Funded by state aid designated by the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act, this initiative supports the transformation of nursing facilities into more resilient environments where risks associated with the coronavirus can be more easily controlled, and to invest in homeand community-based services as alternative care settings to hospitals, nursing homes or assisted living residences. “This LTSS competitive grant opportunity was offered to support change, resiliency and diversification in nursing home business models. We responded with our innovative plans, and are very grateful to be awarded this grant,” states Richard Gamache, MS, FACHCA, chief executive officer of Aldersbridge Communities, parent organization of Linn Health & Rehabilitation. “Before the

COVID-19 pandemic hit, our Board of Trustees and leadership had been visioning what life in a congregate setting should look like. This grant is our stepping stone to the future of elder care at Linn.” The first part of Linn Health & Rehabilitation’s workplan calls for transforming 11 skilled nursing and long-term care rooms from semi-private to private, each equipped with the latest in ventilation, lighting and technology for infection control, and an ensuite private bathroom with shower. The renovated rooms will be kept separate from other rooms, helping to control the spread of germs and for potential use as an infectious disease isolation unit should the need arise. “Nursing homes like ours were built in the 1970s and haven’t changed much architecturally over the years,” notes Gamache. “Our most vulnerable population – elders – are the most susceptible to illness and viral spread, yet they often share rooms and washrooms in institutional settings. We are confident our new private rooms will be appreciated by residents, their families, direct care staff and referral sources alike.” The second part of the workplan to be funded by the grant is to introduce a new initiative called the Linn Health Navigator, aimed at keeping older persons in the community living independently in their own homes. Elders would enroll in this program to be linked with a community network of social services and other needs such as handyman or errand services. It will be staffed by a care manager who can monitor the health status of enrollees, including those discharged back home following successful care and treatment at Linn Health & Rehabilitation. “We recognize that people want to stay in their homes for as long as possible, and they just need the right support. Sometimes it’s as simple as getting groceries or help to shovel snow. But it can also be ensuring their diet is nutritious and not deficient in some way to cause or trigger an acute illness,or making sure the medications they are taking don’t cause an averse reaction to land them in the Emergency Room,” explains Gamache. “The Navigator Program can help reduce Medicare and Medicaid costs by eliminating unnecessary hospitalizations, and can delay or even prevent relocation to a nursing home or other congregate care setting,” explains Gamache. “It can serve as a national model for pre-emptive care.” The LTSS grant was established by the State of Rhode Island to help eligible nursing homes recoup financial losses realized during the COVID-19 crisis. In addition to reducing their 2020 losses, Linn Health & Rehabilitation has earmarked a portion of the grant funds for the conversion project development and for staffing the Navigator Program care manager position. “We are excited to begin our initial, transformative steps to realize our mission of empowering those in our care to live with dignity and comfort,” states Gamache, a leading expert on ageism who has overseen many groundbreaking elder care initiatives throughout the region during his 40-year career such as the creation of R.I.’s first sub-acute care program in 1992 and establishing the first two elder-friendly hospital ER departments in New England in 2012. “We look forward to supporting and improving the health outcomes for all Rhode Islanders who use our services.”

January 2021 The Reporter

East Providence Senior Center January 2021

401.435.7800 • Fax: 401.435.7803 • www.eastprovidence.com 610 Waterman Avenue, East Providence, RI 02914

Letter from the Mayor

On behalf of the entire City of East Providence staff, I want to wish you and your family a happy and healthy new year. The New Year always brings with it feelings of renewal and hope. This year those feelings take on new meaning as we roll out COVID-19 vaccines across our nation including Rhode Island. This does not, however, mean we are out of the woods yet. We need to be patient and stay vigilant by continuing to wear our masks and social distance. I want to take this time to acknowledge all who have lost loved ones this year and send our heartfelt condolences. I look forward to 2021 and a day when we have a chance to join together. Although the Senior Center continues to stay closed for activities in an effort to keep everyone safe, our Senior Center staff are available by phone to continue to provide you with any resources or needs you may have. Do not hesitate to give the center a call. We love hearing from you. Sincerely, Roberto L. DaSilva

Senior Shopping Service

Join us for safe shopping excursions on Tuesdays. Who is eligible? • City of East Providence residents • Seniors 55 years or older or disabled. How do I sign up? • Call 401-435-7800 for an appointment. Offered on Tuesdays. There will be two runs. Morning run to Stop & Shop and afternoon run to Shaw’s. For more information or to make an appointment call the Senior Center at 401-435-7800.

GRAB & GO Lunches

Home delivery is available within the City of East Providence Please make your reservations at least 24 hours in advance. East Providence Senior Center Cafe Phone: (401)-270-1814. For Goldsmith/City View Cafe Phone: (401) 434-7645. These boxed lunches are for people aged 60/+ or disabled individuals. A suggested donation of $3.00 per boxed lunch will help to sustain the program.

Zoom YOGA

Sponsored by Blue Cross, Blue Shield RI Susan Bayley is teaching Zoom Yoga classes Fridays from 9:00 am to 10:00 am. If you would like to try it out contact Susan at Susanabayley@icloud.com. Susan will send you an invite to join in.

Age-Friendly RI Virtual Community Center:

Where Rhode Islanders Can Connect, Learn & Play

Check out the Age-Friendly Virtual Community Center January Calendar of Events: https://agefriendlyri.org/events/ month/2021-01/ If you haven’t checked out the Virtual Community Center you don’t know what you’re missing! Programs now available in Spanish.

Food Distribution

EBCAP Food Pantry Hours By Appointment Only—401-437-1000 ext. 127 Monday 12 pm to 4 pm Tuesday 12 pm to 4 pm Wednesday 12 pm to 6 pm Thursday 12 pm to 4 pm Friday 8 am to 12 pm If you need your pantry items delivered call us at the Senior Center.

HOW TO STAY YOUNG

1. Throw out nonessential numbers. This includes age, weight and height. Let the doctors worry about them. That is why you pay them. 2. Keep only cheerful friends. The grouches pull you down. 3. Keep learning. Learn more about the computer, crafts, gardening, whatever, even ham radio. Never let the brain idle. 'An idle mind is the devil's workshop.' And the devil's family name is Alzheimer's. 4. Enjoy the simple things. 5. Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath. 6. The tears happen. Endure, grieve, and move on. The only person, who is with us our entire life, is ourselves. Be ALIVE while you are alive. 7. Surround yourself with what you love , whether it's family, pets, keepsakes, music, plants, hobbies, whatever.. Your home is your refuge. 8. Cherish your health: if it is good, preserve it. If it is unstable, improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve, get help. 9. Don't take guilt trips. Take a trip to the mall, even to the next county, to a foreign country, but NOT to where the guilt is. 10. Tell the people you love that you love them at every opportunity.

• Countess Arlene Ten Eyck: Joined the East Providence Senior Center in 2008. Passed in March 2020 • Jean Henderson: Joined the East Providence Senior Center in 2004. Passed in July 2020 • Harry Manning: Joined the East Providence Senior Center in 2003. Passed in November 2020 • Gladys Panzarella: Joined the East Providence Senior Center in 2002. Passed in December 2020 • Jeannine Gosselin: Joined the East Providence Senior Center in 2016. Passed in December 2020 • Douglas Dean: Joined East Providence Senior Center in 2010. Passed in November 2020 Please contact Laura Jones at 401-431-4608 if someone was left off the list in error.

General Contractor Established in 1940, 3rd Generation

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HOME IMPROVEMENTS

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RI Reg. # 33335 / MA Reg. # CS51340

Residential / Commercial

The Reporter January 2021

Virtual January Events at the Fuller Creative Learning Center www.eastprovidencelibrary.org The Fuller Creative Learning Center continues its schedule of programs and workshops. The schedule for January includes:

Adults/Young Adults

• Virtual Portuguese Soup Demo - Tuesday, January 5 6:00pm • Virtual 2021 DIY Vision Board - Thurs, January 7 & 14 6:00pm • Virtual Cooking Club (Intro Session) - Tues, January 12 6:00pm • Virtual Snowflake Art - Thursdays, January 21 & 28 1:00-2:00pm • Virtual Cooking Club - Tuesday, January 26 6:00pm

Children/Teenagers

• Virtual Photography Series (ages 7+) - Mons, Jan 4, 11, & 25 3:30-4:30pm • Virtual Gamer Hour - Weds, January 6, 13, & 20 3:30-4:30pm • Virtual DIY Dream Board - Fridays, January 8 & 15 3:30-4:30pm • Virtual DIY Baking Quick Breads - Fridays, Jan 22 & 29 3:304:30pm More information on these events can be found on the East Providence Library website or our Facebook page. You may also contact the Fuller Creative Center at fullercreativelearning@gmail. com for more information or to register. As an extension of the East Providence Public Library, the Fuller Creative Learning Center focuses on hands-on learning programs and workshops for all ages. Join us at the Center located on 260 Dover Avenue, East Providence, RI for one of these beneficial experiences! For more information contact Ryan McCauley at rmccauley@ eplib.org

Tabeley’s

Roofing From roofs to windows Tabeley’s has your needs covered Master Elite Installer, 20 years of perfection

www.Tabeleys.com • (401) 431-2816 Our Reputation is on the Top of Thousands of Homes Bill Hopkins

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StoneScapes Specializing in all styles of stone masonry with over 35 years experience

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Dave Says Push The Pause Button Dear Dave, I’ve been following your plan, but recently I experienced a medical emergency. I’m about halfway through Baby Step 2 and paying off my debts using the debt snowball system. Considering the circumstances, should I stop doing the debt snowball for now? —Brooke Dear Brooke, That’s exactly what you should do. But make sure you’re only pressing the pause button on paying off debt. I’m talking about temporarily stopping the debt snowball, and making only minimum payments on all non-mortgage debt for now. Cash is your umbrella when it rains, and you never know just long the rain will last. Even if you have great health insurance, you might end up paying a chunk out of pocket. That’s why it’s important to save up and have plenty on hand. Things like this are often just a bump in the road, so don’t get discouraged. They can be expensive, and they’re part of life, but taking care of these kinds of issues doesn’t have to mean giving up on getting control of your finances. Emergency issues, especially a medical emergency, come first. Then, go back when things are better and pick up where you left off knocking out debt using the debt snowball system. You can do this, Brooke. God bless you! —Dave

You’re Just Not Ready Dear Dave, My husband and I just bought a small business with cash. My sister let us live with her while we saved up the money for it, but things are starting to get a little cramped for everyone. The other day, my sister offered to co-sign on a house for us. Do you think this is a good idea? —Cari Dear Cari, Ok, so you just bought a business. I love your entrepreneurial spirit and the fact you saved up and paid for it with cash. But at this point, you don’t know if the business is going to be successful or not. On top of that, you told me you’d need a co-signer for a home. If you need a co-signer for anything, it means you’re not financially ready for that purchase. I know you don’t want to hear this, but you guys need to just forget about buying a house for a while. If I were in your shoes, I’d find a decent, inexpensive place to rent, and spend two or three years getting the business up and running. Pay off any debt you have, while saving as much money as you can in the process. I want you and your husband to have a nice house someday. But right now, it would be a burden instead of a blessing. —Dave * Dave Ramsey is a seven-time #1 national best-selling author, personal finance expert, and host of The Dave Ramsey Show, heard by more than 16 million listeners each week. He has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS This Morning, Today Show, Fox News, CNN, Fox Business, and many more. Since 1992, Dave has helped people regain control of their money, build wealth and enhance their lives. He also serves as CEO for Ramsey Solutions.

January 2021 The Reporter

Place Classified ads at www.ReporterToday.com

CLASSIFIEDS

FREE STUFF

FREE scrap removal: all appliances, fridges, washers/ dryers, A/Cs, etc. Call/text 401-368-3706 or email scrapabilities@ outlook.com.

FOR SALE

CEMETERY PLOTS: OLD Seekonk Cemetery next to Middle School 2 Plots @$800 each. Alice Rezendes 727-420-1922.

WANTED

Wanted: Old Christmas decorations. Please donate. Call Debbie at 401-632-3602. Civil War, WW1, WW2, Anything to do with military; helmets, knives, uniforms, guns, HAVE (license), anything related to wartime, will pay cash for items, ask for Charles, call 508-2306444; call anytime thanks. I buy Old cars, Motorcycle, Bicycles, Scooter and other wheeled vehicle and parts. One piece or a collection. Thank you Joe in Rehoboth 508-558-5129. Paying CASH for Coins, Gold & Silver Jewelry, Flatware, Costume Jewelry, Antiques, Smalls, Old Toys, Gift Cards,Fishing Lures, Pre 1964 Coins, Oddities. Warren Exchange 175 Main Street in Warren (401)245-5001 Off Street Parking, Fair & Friendly :)

HOME & GARDEN

Plants for Sale: Inside and outside; hanging plants, perennials, annuals, herbs, bushes, coleus, ground cover, angel trumpets, begonias, citronella plants & forsythia. Extra large pots available. Everything from $3 to $10. Call 401-433-2922 for an appointment to see my plants in glass containers and unique pots. Free small plant with visit.

From the State House Rep. Kazarian Calls on National Grid to Fix Power Outage Issue Cites 4 in Last 8 Months

State House – Rep. Katherine S. Kazarian (D-Dist. 63, East Providence) is calling on National Grid to finally address and fix the issue of frequent power outages affecting the region over the past year. She cites four outages in her district over the past eight months alone. “Frankly, it has gotten to the point that whenever there is a little bit of rain and wind, everyone is concerned about whether the power will stay on or not. And for the amount of money we pay for power, which is one of the highest rates in the country, these constant service outages are unacceptable. In my district, we have lost power four times since April while in Seekonk, right over the border, they have rarely lost power during the same storms. National Grid must fix this persistent and damaging problem,” said Representative Kazarian. “This year has already been devastating for so many and these power outages are piling on top of already very serious worries and problems. With so many at home for work or school, or simply the added costs of spoiled food to already stretched thin family budgets, the damage done by these consistent power outages is adding up and must be corrected immediately. To think that National Grid is once again trying to increase our rates for their horrendously unreliable service is shameful and there should be no further rate hikes until National Grid proves that they are capable of delivering reliable power service,” concluded Representative Kazarian.

CJS / Statewide Appliance Repair

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GENERAL SERVICES

I am a Personal Care Assistant & Housekeeper willing to help you! Will perform many duties including meal prep, medication reminders, shower assistance, shopping/errands, laundry, light cleaning. Call Terri for information and rates. 774-284-7600. Wash Dry Fold service by Erica! Drop off Monday - Friday 6am to 9am at 257 Bullocks Point Ave., Riverside or by appointment. Call (401) 578-6366. Electrical both residential and commercial. Always keep a clean and neat workspace. Licensed, bonded & insured. Flexible, dependable and always punctual. Always professional. Committed to quality! Friendly service. Quality service! We're proud of our craftsmanship. Get it right the first time! Experienced. Family owned & operated. Locally owned. Owner operated. Workmanship guaranteed. Competitive and affordable pricing. Peter Bleau 774-427-9004 BIG BLUE REMOVAL SERVICE: Attic, Cellar, Total House. We take everything! Furniture, Brush, Appliances, Yard Waste, Construction Debris, Trash…Demolition of Fences, Sheds, Decks, Pools. Let us do the work. Free Estimates. Call Tony 508-226-1295; www.BigBlueRemoval.com.

Most Appliances, Fee waved with repair

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401-434-1460

Paying Cash For Gold, Silver, and Sterling u.s. and Foreign coins old comics and sporting cards old watches and collectibles diamonds and jewlery

wexler's

phone # 508 336-9103 113 taunton avenue seekonk, mass same location for 40 years

The Reporter January 2021

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