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The East Providence

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DECEMber 2011 Volume 7, no. 12

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Serving the Community and Businesses of East Providence

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on page 25...

2011

Holiday Guide

R.I. State Police “Oversee” E.P. (2nd time since 2009)

By Bob Rodericks It’s not a state ‘takeover’ yet, but Major Stephen Bannon, R.I. State Police Chief Administrative Officer, has been appointed by Governor Chafee to “oversee” the financial situation in troubled East Providence. Bannon is a twenty-four (24) year veteran of the Rhode Island State Police. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting from the University of Rhode Island and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from Roger Williams University. Major Bannon is also a graduate of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) National Academy in Quantico, VA. Bannon also serves as the Chief Administrative Officer, responsible for the personnel and fiscal management of the Division. In 2009, State Police Captain Raymond Studley (an EPHS graduate) also served as the Interim Chief of Police for the City of East Providence Police Department during a time of unrest and turmoil for the city’s police. The city eventually hired Joseph Tavares of the Warwick, R.I. police department as its’ new police chief. The move didn’t sit well with local officers who cited a provision in their contract which called for promotions from “within the department” if all candidates for police chief were otherwise equally qualified. The union lost a court challenge and Tavares’ (an EPHS graduate) appointment as chief was upheld. continued on page 3...

Happy Holidays to all!

Christmas in Colonial New England: Looking to Heaven or Raising Hell?

by Leslie Patterson If Thanksgiving can be considered an old New England tradition, celebrating Christmas is not, at least not Christmas as we now know it. At one point, the Puritans in Boston even banned celebrating Christmas. For example, in 1659 the Massachusetts Bay Colony levied a 5-shilling fine on anyone celebrating Christmas by feasting or not working. Many of us may know about this curious piece of American history, but we may not know just why the Puritans were so against Christmas. (Hint: it wasn’t just because they were a dour and judgmental lot.) It seems that in the 17th century in both Europe and colonial America, the Christmas season was a time of riotous celebrations with a huge amount of drinking, carousing, and general mayhem. It was more like Trick-or-Treat on steroids or like Mardi Gras than any kind of holy day. This rowdy and irreligious celebration is what Cotton Mather and his cronies objected to. continued on page 4...

The Reporter December 2011

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December 2011 The Reporter

Conitinued from Cover...

R.I. State Police “Oversee” E.P. (2nd time since 2009) By Bob Rodericks

In a November press release, city manager Peter Graczykowski and Mayor Bruce Rogers welcomed the advisory overseer appointed by the state. “The City of East Providence and School Committee officials have been continuously meeting with the Rhode Island Auditor General and Director of Revenue, discussing the progress of the deficit reduction plan. The projected deficit is on the School side of the budget in both the current and future fiscal years. A final working document was submitted to the State on November 10, 2011. The plan includes the Fiscal Year 2011-2012 budget deficit reduction from $7,250,728 to $3,242,317,) said their release in part. During its’ November city council meeting, members discussed the various ways in which to close the city’s budget deficit. City manager Graczykowski told the council that in addition to cutting more city expenses, there could be one of three different levels of supplemental tax increases. The first option would be to increase the rate from 3.5% to 4.25%. This would cost the ‘average’ homeowner $60.61 and would raise an additional $1,036,000. The second option would set the increase at 4% which would mean an additional $45.98 to the “average” homeowner. The city would receive an extra $798,000. The third option would be a rate of 3.5% which would cost an average of $33.44 and raise $560,000. All of these options would have to be combined with more cuts and other funding sources to achieve deficit elimination. The city is currently undergoing a management audit of both school and city budgets for the purpose of recommending further budget savings, if found. Prior audits of a similar nature did not produce any appreciable savings and highlighted school department “underfunding” by the city as an issue. “The state wants us to close the gap (deficit),” Graczykowski told the council. He also outlined a few areas of potential cuts in the city budget. “We can carry forward a $500,000 surplus and look at elimination of non-essential services,” Graczykowski said. One proposal would entirely eliminate city recreation to save $250,000. Another would eliminate city senior services for $149,000. Energy savings which have already begun are expected to save some $281,000 per year over the next three years. On the school side, it was projected that the school committee will be considering further cuts to technology and instructional supplies as well as cuts in the book account and the elimination of 24 positions. These additional school cuts

would save approximately $400,000 more. All suggestions to cut these services more were met with disagreement by several speakers who lamented the loss of city recreation or senior programs. Atlarge councilman, William Conley asked Graczykowski if all departments were “being looked at differently.” Graczykowski replied that “we have already made general cuts across the board and are eliminating vacancies. All departments are at a bare minimum,” he said. Conley, Mayor Rogers and others made it clear that the total elimination of recreation and senior services would most likely not occur. “There is no appetite for this. These actions are unacceptable,” said ward 4 councilman Michael DiGoia. “I am embarrassed that Major Bannon (of the state police) is here,” DiGoia continued. Both city manager Graczykowski and city finance director Ellen Eggerman outlined a history of the city’s budget problems before they introduced state police Major Bannon to the council. “In 2003 the schools had a $2.4 million deficit which went to $2 million in 2004. The deficit was brought down to $1.2 million in 2006-07 but went up to a $5.2 million deficit in 2008.” said Graczykowski. Eggerman and Graczykowski told the council that the 2008 “increase was attributed to the then school committee making budget cuts without offsetting revenues”. Graczykowski went on to state that the “deficit grew to $6.1 million in 2009 due to faulty a faulty school district special education census, which didn’t account for 19 additional tuition students not budgeted for”. “We have made some progress working with this school committee,” said Graczykowski. “There is potential to save $800,000 with a high deductable health plan for teachers. A proposal to close Watters School (in Riverside) would save $80,000. $50,000 in non-instruction supplies; $30,000 in non-public bussing and returning 10 tuitioned students to the district are all possible savings,” Graczykowski said. All of these new school cuts may bring down the deficit by about $1.1 million. For the city side of the government, numerous options are underway such as higher permit fees, field rental and use policy changes, fire rescue fees, eliminating Heritage Days, reducing libraries, moving the Municipal Court and further union concessions. “We can get the deficit to about $3.2 million as of now and this is why we have help from the state,” said Graczykowski. “So, we have an overseer. The city maintains authority, still, but all expenditures over $25,000 must be

Major Bannon reviewed by the overseer (Major Bannon). The state has some concerns and they don’t want us to end up in the same place again,” said Graczykowski.

Inside This Issue Births..................................64 Business Directory...................70 Classifieds................................ 69 Clubs......................................33 Dining Guide..........................67 E.P. Chamber of Commerce.....20 Events & Activities....................24 Holiday 2011..........................25 How You Can Help.................44 Letters to the Editor...................5 Library..................................56 Opinion

From the Mayor's Office...21

The Other Side of the Desk...34

Parks & Recreation...............18 People....................................38 School...............................50 Scouting Around Town......53 Senior Center News...............61 Sports................................48 Town News.............................14 Weddings..............................65

The Reporter December 2011

Continued from the Cover... Christmas in Colonial New England: Looking to Heaven or Raising Hell? by Leslie Patterson

In our own day devoutly religious people often complain about how Christmas has become too commercialized. This wasn’t the problem in colonial days because there wasn’t all that much for sale, unlike today, and giving Christmas gifts hadn’t become such a big thing in people’s lives. But Christmas A Victorian-era Santa Claus looks in America has always caused some controversy about how very similar to today’s Santa. best to celebrate the season. One excellent source of information on how Christmas grew into the celebration we know today is “The Battle for Christmas” by Stephen Nissenbaum, now professor emeritus at University of Massachusetts at Amherst. Condensing the author’s theme into a nutshell, the book is subtitled “A social and cultural history of Christmas that shows how it was transformed from an unruly carnival season into the quintessential American family holiday.” Nissenbaum’s very readable book isn’t new; it was published a few years ago. But it makes for timely reading during the holiday season, especially for all those who don’t know this colorful part of American history.

German immigrants in New York and Pennsylvania brought the Christmas tree to America in the mid19th century.

Nissenbaum points out that the weeks around the winter solstice had traditionally been a time of feasting, when there was more fresh food available to the common people, who finally had some free time too. The harvest was in, there wasn’t as much work to be done, and it was the time when fresh meat was available since animals were slaughtered in the late fall. This was also the time that the year’s supply of beer and wine was ready to drink. People everywhere in the Northern hemisphere celebrate light in this time of darkness too. “Excess took many forms,” Nissenbaum writes. “Reveling could easily become rowdiness, lubricated by alcohol, making merry could edge into making trouble.” So much so that by 1712, Cotton Mather wrote that the “feast of Christ’s Nativity is spent in Reveling, Dicing, Carding, Masking, and in Licentious Liberty.” To us, the quaint old word “wassail” connotes jolly carolers serenading with Christmas music, but in those days wassailing must have been more like a mafia shakedown or Trick-or-Treat as practiced by some rather threatening and surly teenagers. Nissenbaum explains, “The wassail usually possessed an aggressive edge - often an explicit threat - concerning the unpleasant consequences to follow if the beggars’ demands were not met.” He quotes one old wassail song, “We’ve come here to claim our right - and if you don’t open up your door, we will lay you flat upon the floor”. However, “there was also the promise of good will if the wassailers were treated well. It is the promise of goodwill, alone from this ritualized exchange, that has been retained in the modern revival of old Christmas songs.” So when did the tide start to change for celebrating Christmas in early America? According to Nissenbaum, it came as a gradual change in the second half of the 18th century when the churches started to mark Christmas as a special day, though the holiday was still far from what we would recognize today. “Nowhere would we have found Christmas trees; no reindeer, no Santa Claus. It was neither a domestic holiday nor a commercial one.” For that, we need to look to the 19th century, which is where most of our modern Christmas customs come from. It was the 19th century that gave us such Christmas staples as Clement Clarke Moore’s “A Visit from St. Nicholas”, still popular today, though more commonly known as “The Night Before Christmas”. It seems that Washington Irving (author of “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow”) played a big role in setting the stage for this poem. Cartoonist Thomas Nast showed us what he thought Santa Claus looked like in his most famous drawing of a very portly and pipe-smoking Santa in 1881 and old Santa has looked pretty much like that ever since. Charles Dickens published “A Christmas Carol” in 1843 and it has been hugely popular ever since, in theater and film versions as well as written story. Christmas trees came to America as early as the 1830’s as German immigrants in New York and Pennsylvania made them popular. Another interesting fact is that Christmas trees were a fairly new phenomenon in Germany too at that time, not some ancient holiday custom. So many Christmas customs from the 19th century have endured and been added to by still more customs from this last century. It’s no wonder we have such lavish celebrations for so many weeks. Studying the past puts the present into perspective. Even an office holiday party where there’s a bit too much drinking and carousing can be seen as a throwback to a colonial-era Christmas. As we all indulge in rich food and drink this season, celebrate the shortest day/longest night, and carry out innumerable holiday traditions both religious and secular, we can be sure that there is not much new under the mistletoe.

December 2011 The Reporter

Letters to the Editor...

The East Providence

Reporter

Serving the Community and Businesses of East Providence

The comments in Letters To The Editor, Opinion Columns and advertisements do not necessarily reflect the views of this publication... It is not our intent to take sides on any issues, but to present all arguments from all points of view. If your point of view is not represented on an issue, it is only because you have not voiced your opinion. Please Note: • Letters to the Editor MUST be signed and contain a phone number! • Letters to the Editor MUST arrive by the 20th of the month! • We will withhold any letters of an accusatory Nature until the accused person has a chance to respond in the same issue!

Email: news@eastprovreporter.com

Time for Change

I must admit that I have not been a resident of East Providence long enough for me to understand all the political nuances and animosity that exists in this town. But all one has to do is pick up a copy of either of the “local” papers to know that something is amiss. I find it hard to understand how the people we have elected to the City Council and School Board can put so much time and energy into the constant back stabbing and political in-fighting that goes on in and between these two bodies. Now, due to their apparent lack of interest in taking the appropriate steps to run our City in a professional and efficient manner, the State has had to appoint a financial overseer to straighten out the financial mess we find ourselves in. If those two bodies, which we elected, paid as much attention to running the City and less time trying to out-maneuver each other for some political reason maybe we wouldn’t be in this mess. Now we are about to become the second laughing stock of this State right behind Central Falls. Come on people wake up. Time for change. Real change! Robert Amman East Providence

Can We Have Our Cake and Eat it too?

I would really like to know how we are to act in East Providence. Are we to rush out in PRAISE and supposed to be super excited because the old Phillipsdale Historic District is now listed on the National Register and rush out and put up signs to draw tourists to East Providence to make tons of tourist dollar jobs for those who are unemployed in East Providence in order to show off our new found area OR are we to continue to SPURN those industries that are still trying to stay in the area since the industries that once filled the area are now LONG GONE leaving a giant hole in East Providence’s tax revenue? YES I said INDUSTRIES. The ones now being CELEBRATED for making the Phillipsdale Historic Site what it is today, “Historic”, by doing a far BETTER job of POLLUTING THE WATER, AIR AND LAND than the ones there today all while their employees lived within walking distance while living in much of the still existing “mill housing” in the area. I don’t get it… Praise OR Spurn, Which is It… can we have our cake and eat it too? Paul Maziarz Riverside

P.O. Box 170 Rehoboth, MA 02769

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To the Editor:

If I may, I would like to point out that in your story on “Operation Orlo” it states that Kent Heights received a grant to help pay for their playground. I do need to correct that information to say that Kent Heights raised the money they needed without grants. It took, I would say a little over a year but the money was raised through various fundraisers and monetary donations. (a grant would have been great and easier J ) Everyone who helped raised this money for the Kent Heights Playground deserves every bit of recognition for their hard work and generosity. Thank you. Kathy A. Poland Letters continued on next page...

Special Thanks To: Lori Anderson Meredith Amaral TCI Press

PHONE 508-252-6575 Fax 252-6320 news@eastprovreporter.com The views expressed in The Reporter are not necessarily those of the editor or staff.

The Reporter December 2011

Seniors of Rhode Island

Recently, a few facts floated across my desk that impact seniors all across Rhode Island. First, it appears that Rhode Island finally ranks number one in something. According to the 2010 U.S. Census, our state has the highest percentage of citizens over the age of 85. Why? No one knows. Apparently we live longer and stay here for our really golden years. Whatever the reason, it appears that more of our citizens choose to grow old in Rhode Island than in any other state. Second, a study recently released by the Center for Gerontology and Health Care Research at Brown University shows that Rhode Island’s nursing home population is more frail and dependent than ever before. One ties into the other. It’s easy to understand that as we age, the more intensive our health care needs become and as our 85+ population continues to grow, so too will the need for long term care services. What’s interesting is that it’s long been touted that Rhode Island’s long term care Medicaid costs exceed that of other states. Policymakers have argued that these costs need to be brought into line with counterparts throughout the country. Unfortunately, the impact of Rhode Island’s large percentage of elderly over the age of 85 – those who use nursing home care the most – is commonly overlooked. The results of the 2010 census and the Brown study come at a time when state officials are redesigning the payment system for nursing homes to an acuity-based system. Therefore, never has it been more important to have a clear understanding of two trends: the number of Rhode Island’s elderly needing the intensive services provided in nursing homes is disproportionately large compared to other states; and the role of the skilled nursing facility has changed over the years. No longer convalescent homes, today’s facilities have morphed into centers providing intensive

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short term rehabilitation and recuperation following a hospital stay or long term care for Rhode Islanders with chronic , medically complex conditions. While assisted living and home care services are touted as less costly alternatives to nursing home care, in fact these valuable services are designed for different populations. Only nursing homes deliver the level of care needed by those requiring 24-hour nursing services. Robbing Peter to pay Paul, i.e., shifting funds from nursing home care to community-based care – is not the answer. The entire long term care system needs to grow to reflect Rhode Island’s changing demographics. Despite the legislature’s original intent to align payments to skilled nursing providers to the acuity of those they care for, there seems to be an inclination on the part of the Administration to develop a payment system that doesn’t account for the additional resources needed to care for a growing “old old” population. People in Rhode Island’s nursing homes require more staffing, more therapies, more medication and more resources than ever before, yet the funding for these services has been cut by millions of dollars in recent years. Eventually the path of being told to deliver more with less has to end. Unless policymakers begin to realize the needs of Rhode Island’s demographics, we will continue to sell short the needs of our oldest generation. Currently, Rhode Island ranks among the top states in terms of quality care in nursing homes, according to nationally reported quality indicators. On January 1, when the new payment system is scheduled to go into effect, access and quality to nursing home services could change drastically. Seniors across the state should be aware of that. Last year, our legislators asked for the development of a payment system based on meeting the growing needs of nursing home residents. It’s up to the Department of Human Services to deliver that system. In doing so, the Administration should be mindful that the care of our most frail and dependent population should never be compromised to balance the bottom line. Joan M. Woods, Chair, Rhode Island Health Care Association

A Walk Down Memory Lane

Late last April, I think it was, I had the opportunity to walk from the Goodyear store on Taunton Ave. to my family’s house on Roger Williams Avenue in Phillipsdale. Of course, for an old Central Junior High School kid, that’s a walk down memory lane. A bridge, for example, now stands on the site of one of the first big discount stores in the area, tied, maybe, with Ann & Hope as the first proponent of that kind of marketing in the area. Broadway, something? The Broadway Mill Outlet? A little further down on the left was some brave, clean little business that had painted its walls orange. I have to tell you that that outer southfacing wall of solid color looked just great in the sunlight. Next on my inspection list, on the right, was the old Singer Market, which by now had become an antique place. In the window was a sunlit little tableau consisting of a hokey framed profile of some debutante, lying against the stand of a bubble gum machine. I took a picture; came out nice. Behind the gas station that abuts Sunshine Creamery is what Uncle Allan and my dad called the Boathouse. Allan, twelve years older than Tut, had died at the age of ninety-two, about twenty years previous to this particular walking day. He knew something about old times, having lived them. Allan had been a boy who was always outdoors, so he had known Omega Pond and its environs well when it had flourished, muskratting there and experiencing the water as an extra for the

December 2011 The Reporter people of the area, something a little different for everyone to enjoy. Somewhere along the line, I, too, have seen pictures of young men in their aptly named straw boaters, with longskirted companions sitting with them in their sepia world. Couldn’t do much with the Omega when I was a kid. Looking to my right, I took in the view of the Agawam Hunt Club, the next step up for those who want to be distinguished from suburban culture. When I was in junior high, I imagined that Richie Rich might have lived there. The club now abuts a derelict bridge, probably from the age of Hoover, which is now crumbling slowly, we hope, into the Ten Mile River. That trestle is now rated to hold three tons. Wish I could have been around in 1884 when the railroad arch that faces the club on its other side was built. Must have been something to see a big time train cross her, looking out the club’s portals over cigars with one’s friends. Things, of course, have a way of changing. And I’d need more money, even in my dream world. Derivatives, maybe? Walking by Ernie Tetrault’s house, itself once a munitions factory in the American revolution, I looked to my left and spotted the Pond View property, an oblivious corporate neighbor and one that I’d already known, from my own experience, to be continued on next page...

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a reliable mover and processor of what we unimaginatively call “waste.” And, really, the sight of that facility is what gave me, and continues to give me, pause as I contemplate what could be in my old neighborhood. For a hundred thousand dollars in taxes from this place, our city government has allowed a business to operate over the continued objections of many neighboring citizens, who see it as a liability to their investment in their homes and as a potential threat to their health as well. Any twenty-five of those houses pays as much to the city every year as does Pond View, and yet the neighbors and their objections don’t seem to register in meaningful terms with state and city authorities, as I have seen with my own eyes while attending numerous meetings on the dust, soil, and water issues raised by the existence of this plant. Imagine a business concern, which, rather than corroding the local political system, developed a subsidiary business, instead, in dust, soil, and water outcomes management. By that I mean an entirely different and new market, a green one, charged with building its future through the scientific management of dust and other potentially harmful byproducts of production. Such start-ups can’t be done without some kind of reliable government in partnership. The proof is that it hasn’t happened, over thirty years and more of our waiting. Remember Newbay? I do. A green industrial revolution will happen, of course, but at the rate the politicos of my hometown and my old state are working, probably not here and not anytime soon. It’s just cheaper to finesse the local powers that be. Seemingly, reform is yet another task that, in present times, “just can’t be addressed.” Funny thing is, regulation stabilizes things when used properly. If the rules are rock solid, and the government consistent in enforcing them, both you and your competitor can know much more, much more quickly. You can also boost prices in a predictable way to accommodate the additional expenses of doing the right thing by your neighbors, as mandated by law (??) And such businesses will one day proliferate all over the planet, as they must. They also have railroads at Quonset, as well as the potential for a big time transfer station there of international caliber. Almost to my dad’s house, from which I later went to a demo against Pond View, I looked to my right at one of my favorite places, the memorial to Roger Williams. Educated in the most sincere way, and by all accounts, a humane and principled man, the young minister had settled on this piece, the story goes, some time in 1636. He stayed until folks from the Old Colony

December 2011 The Reporter at Plymouth told him that he was in their bounds. That land was a launching place for the founding of Providence, anyway, which was Williams’ destiny. He wrote something which I keep in the better part of my memory: “Having bought the truth dear, we must not sell it cheap, not the least grain of it, for the whole world.” Arnie McConnell Seekonk, MA

Who We Really Are

Sometimes in the most desperate of circumstances we show our true colors. As a community, what do some of the proposals for balancing our budget say about who we really are? Proposals ranged from a devastating plan to cut community libraries to mentions of middle school sports and other valuable programs. Our libraries are one of the closest things we have to community hubs, a meeting ground for the community to come together, a place for those with limited access at home to have access to reading materials, video and the internet. The community libraries reflect the community and citizens build strong relationships with the staff and other patrons. Children, even this day and age go to the library after school, proud to hold their library card and develop an appreciation for the written word, as well as many of the community programs and new media available. These are the children that would be unable to get to Weaver regularly. It is shameful to look here first for cuts, removing libraries from the local communities of East Providence is the first step to giving up our standards as a community and saying that East Providence isn’t good enough for even this meager standard of living. continued on next page...

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The Reporter December 2011

Frank DeVall Jr., Senator RI State Senate District 18

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Anyone who knows me knows that I’m not an athlete by any stretch of the imagination, however; I know the value that athletics has for children. In an age where child obesity is at epidemic proportions, children deserve to have an outlet for physical activity at the middle school level. Middle School sports also have many positive psychological and social effects as these children are at an incredibly vulnerable stage. The teamwork, pride, sportsmanship and sense of belonging are just some of the positive attributes these programs help instill in our community’s children. So where does the money come from? Backend services and consolidation; take the cost of custodians for example, we spend more than half a million on custodians for the High School alone, we can combine the school department’s custodial needs with the rest of the city’s Public Buildings Division and contracted custodial service. We would save some money from that synergy, on top of that you would also save the combined nearly $100,000 for the Facilities Director and his secretary. The same goes for School Department Finance and H.R. Departments, you can save a solid $200,000-$300,000 from consolidating them with the city, even if you keep a large proportion of the staff and just move them to the city side, you’re still saving on Director’s salaries and elimination of some clerks. Do we really need two Assistant Superintendents and multiple secretaries between them? Could we not have one Assistant Superintendent and add a somewhat less expensive Department Director or specialist in some cases? Can we not share secretaries? Technology is another area where the school’s Technology Department and city’s Technology Department could be merged and in my opinion, serve both better, by paying to have another technician instead of another department head, saving the taxpayers money without having any less hands on deck. It’s time we take a scalpel and cut what should have been cut years ago, not citizen services but backend operations, consolidate and trim, it’s time for the fiefdoms to be abolished for the good of our city, that is who we really are. Jason Desrosiers Riverside

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I am but one voice out of ten. Ten elected officials of the City of East Providence. Two Thirds of the voters in Riverside put their trust in me to advocate for the children of East Providence. Please allow me to illustrate to you what I have done for “my kids” over the last year. I have fought for full day K across the board as studies across the globe prove that the best place to spend education dollars are grades K through 3. A sound beginning will prove best for the children and reduce special education needs in the later grades. I spearheaded advertising on our websites to help generate revenue to try to take some of the burden off the budget. As you know, the majority of our funding comes from the city side. I got on the negotiating team so that I could try to work out three year contracts that are not only fair to our employees but will net savings at the same time. I advocated for Oldham School to get some much-needed TLC when Jimmy Miller brought the Rebuilding Together project to

December 2011 The Reporter East Providence. We gave the gym a fresh coat of paint, painted the rusty old kindergarten fence, freshened up other rooms in the school, planted flowers, removed old shrubs that were dying and unsightly and by the way, I was one of the first ones there and walked out with the last ones to leave. I helped push for the Waddington Playground. Went to meetings, made countless phone calls, daily updates via text and facebook, raised awareness at the City Council and School Committee meetings, brought volunteers, played with the kids, painted the murals, and again, one of the first ones to get there and one of the last to leave. When I get involved with a project, I roll up my sleeves and work. I don’t show up in my Sunday best just so that people see me. I work! Along with Bruce Rogers, I initiated consolidation of School and City Employees with net savings. Those consolidations are thriving and currently saving the city money. I have collected thousands of dollars worth of school supplies and donated them directly to our schools so that the kids have the necessities for education. I have lent support to the Winterfest Committee which will bring much needed community relations back to our city by bringing families together at this holiday season. I am the liaison to the City Council. I attend every meeting and keep the council apprised of School Department issues. I am the School Department’s liaison to the Carousel Commission and Planning Committee and attend as many meetings as I can between my scheduled City Council and School Committee Meetings. I provide input there as well. I am on the School Department Building Committee and fully engulfed in the deteriorating conditions of our City’s School Buildings. I am a regular fixture at our schools when “it” hits the fan and have spent countless hours in our buildings trying to figure out how we are going to patch up our sorry excuses for places of learning. I would be happy to set up an appointment for you to tour the schools with me so you can see why we need every penny I have fought for. I spent countless hours researching ways for this city to save and/or generate approximately $6M and many of those suggestions remain unexplored at this time. I am also a member of the School Committee Finance Sub Committee. As such I review every invoice that the School Department pays and have been involved in trying to achieve a balanced budget since well before May when the official process began. This one is THE toughest job as, no matter how hard you squeeze a rock, you can’t get blood out of it. Together with our finance director, Mary King, we have crunched numbers, run scenario after scenario for cost savings, gone through each school’s budget with the deepest scrutiny, looked into closing buildings, consolidation of departments, transportation options, special education options, created spreadsheets, thrown away spreadsheets, looked at healthcare savings avenues, contract options and a host of other cost savings possibilities and guess what we found? We need more money. We cannot “cut” our way out of this financial disaster. We need to raise money. I rely heavily on Mary for her expertise as a CPA and the best Finance Director this School Department has ever had. She is not only tenacious with our budget she has picked up slack in other departments also as employees have left the district over the last year. I can’t express enough gratitude. She is the backbone of our district and deserves way more respect than she gets. continued on next page...

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The Reporter December 2011

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The cuts that we have available to us won’t produce much in the way of savings this year. Next year, however, we will be able to save millions through contract negotiations and strategically maneuvered personnel cuts. This situation was not created in one year and we will not be able to fix it in one year. We have a long road ahead. We cannot just pillage the School Department and make random decisions based on dollar amounts. That’s how we got to this point in the first place. Unmanageable and unsustainable contracts and no one did their due diligence to see what will be affected by cutting random line items. The school department has over 5000 students to educate with mandates from the State and Federal Governments. It costs plenty and even though we have asked for relief, the agencies have refused us. So, with all that being said, I take exception to the emails and letters to The Post and The Reporter that proclaim I have not done my share or the comments that my plans are “irresponsible”. I maintain that I have done and continue to do, as much as humanly possible to help this city. Chrissy Rossi

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The city you and I live in is broke. The state we live in is also broke. Our country is now more in debt than any country in the existence of the world. I am not broke. This RI Reg. # 33335 / MA Reg. # CS51340 makes me feel pretty smart actually. It makes me ask myself if I am more intelligent than Residential / Commercial all these other minds combined. But that’s no real feat because if I have one cent of net worth, if I am one penny above water I have more money than my city, state and country combined! So how can this be you ask? Simple. When you spend more than you take in you fall behind and you accumulate debt. Politicians are very prone to this you see because they want to stay in office. Most love the praises of men. They love titles. They love power. They want you to kiss the ring. They overspend because its not really their money, its yours. If it was theirs, they wouldn’t spend it. They continually run out of Making automobiles beautiful one detail at a time money because you’re not really watching them. I can prove this! Ask anyone, and I mean anyone who their state reps are. Ask them who the mayor is. Most won’t know. Most don’t care. Then ask those same people who won American Idol. The television, not religion has become the opiate of the masses. Plato said, “One of the penalties for ignoring politics is you will be governed by your Interior ~ Exterior • Free Pick-Up & Delivery inferiors” I guess on some levels we get what we deserve. When 401-439-8320 nobody’s willing to guard the hen house don’t be too surprised when the fox makes his way in. Such is the case I believe on every Corner of South Phillips St., off Warren Ave. • East Providence Located in rear of building level, city, state and federal. East Providence has alot of police that we pay. I always notice that at traffic stops there is always a second and maybe a third police car. Is this needed? Doesn’t providing “backup” for police in routine traffic stops pull police away from potentially more serious crime? I realize we want our police to be safe but aren’t we "Your Propane Specialist" paying them to protect us? The roads are over-policed. Drive 5 miles over the speed limit on Roger Williams Ave. and you’ll know what I mean. In fact Roger Williams Ave. in my humble opinion must be the safest road in the world. You’d think the president takes it to work everyday the way they police this road. They hide behind bushes and then jump right out into the street and wave (508) 674-4055 • (800) 447-1192 you over so there will be no escaping. It’s a real good way to take more taxpayer money. So if by chance you’re daydreaming and exceed the 25 miles per hour look out! The speed limit is 25 and when you do go 25 you’ll have 3 cars behind you flipping you the bird because its unreasonably slow. I’m just glad our broke city 24 Hour Emergency Service can afford to pay (with my money) all these guys to stand there behind the bushes waiting to take more of my money. I guess I’m ~ Budget Plan ~ paying him to watch over me because I cant trust myself to drive 1499 GAR Highway, Swansea, MA safely. Perhaps all the grinding at the Pondview facility has some primeval Pavlovian effect that makes us goose the gas to exit the ~ SALES & SERVICE ~ area quickly out of self preservation! Automatic Delivery East Providence is in direct competition with its surrounding RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL cities and towns whether we want to admit it or not. People buy a

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lot of the big ticket items next door in Seekonk to pay less in sales tax. There is no viable plan in place to attract new business or homebuyers to East Providence. They will not be coming. Flowery rhetoric and townie pride does not attract buyers, opportunity does. People move to Seekonk to pay less in real estate taxes and a lower car tax as well. While I like my city, I don’t think it is so exclusive that people will continue to bear heavy tax burdens just to see the carousel. Margaret Thatcher said, “Socialism is great until you run out of other people’s money”. City counselors Kleyla, Rose and Rogers must think there is an endless supply of taxpayer dollars. We live in a socialistic city that’s part of one if not the most socialistic states in America. In the same we week it was announced we’d just had the worst three month decline in values in 20 years, city counselors Kleyla, Rose and Rogers voted for a 3.5 hike in real estate tax! That’s why we like California are headed to bankruptcy. Tax and spend policies drive people away and that’s exactly what is happening. Unless people wake up and get involved locally this will multiple exponentially. It’s cyclical. Tax the people more (like Greg Amore wants). Then more people leave. Tax the remaining people more. Then more people leave. Amore cited Steve Laffeys “heroic” tax increases that “saved Cranston.” Two points here. One, when Laffey was raising real estate taxes people had something called equity in their home values to draw from. In fact Laffey himself now lives in Colorado! They also had something called job! It’s a slightly different economic picture Greg. Did you forget to mention this in your weekly socialist blog? You are a teacher. Paid from taxes, calling for higher taxes in the middle of a recession. This is so egregious it’s nauseating. You wish the people would fall in line like communist slaves and just, “bite the bullet?” Taxing the hard working industrious and innovative to allow deadbeat “occupiers” and socialists is a recipe for financial collapse and chaos. We’re seeing the European markets crumbling under massive debt right now. We’re seeing riots and violence. As a history teacher you should know Socialism destroys the hard working middle class. It caters to the privileged and the deadbeat only. Look at Europe. We need new leaders on every level or we are done. People willing to take on the powers that be to turn this ship around before it sinks. It’s sinking now and new much higher taxes will be only a stronger reason for people to not move here. Current “leaders” are driving local residents to pack up and move. I didn’t go to Harvard but last time I checked, Seekonk isn’t that far away. Senator Dan DaPonte has had fourteen years to help this state and has helped only the chosen few that back him politically. We are 50th dead last in business friendly. You could say we’re number one in business hostile! Rep Melo has also had plenty of time to affect change. Where are the results? Where are the jobs? In my humble opinion such a record of continuous failure begs the following question. Have you no shame? David Sullivan

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The Reporter December 2011

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(EPPD), and the East Providence Prevention Coalition (EPPC) would like to thank everyone who participated in the prescription drug take back event which occurred on Saturday October 29, 2011 from 10-2pm at the East Providence Police station. Prescription drug take-back events were held in various communities across Rhode Island and a total of 1,271 pounds of prescription drugs were collected. At the East Providence drop off location, 98 pounds were collected, filling a total of five boxes. The Drug Enforcement Administration took the boxes of prescription drugs by late afternoon to an undisclosed location “where they were to be incinerated by the end of the day”. This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. Many Americans are not aware that medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the United States are increasing at alarming rates, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. In addition, many Americans do not know how to properly dispose of their unused medicine, often flushing them down the toilet or throwing them away – both potential safety and health hazards. There will be another take back event in six months. To stay up to date on when and where take back events occur visit http:// www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_disposal/takeback/ or contact the EPPC at 401-435-7516.

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Seekonk: Great investment! Unique property w/lots of rent potential or develop this busy corner lot. High traffic intersection. Zoned mixed use. Parcel incl: retail, offices, warehse space & 5-unit multi family. Rents low-long term tenants. $795,000. Robin Lozito (401) 486-6937.

Riverside: Charming 3 bed ranch in the Waddington school district, features 2 full baths, den, hdwds, central air, fin lower level w kitchen & rec rm, lots of storage, deck, patio, fenced yard on corner lot, quiet neighborhood, convenient location. Patty Bain (401) 965-4822

Rehoboth: Country living w/ room to roam. Custom built home on 8.9 acres. Granite kitch w/open floor plan, 24x24 sunrm, fam rm, den, beautiful master bath, heated 2 c.garage, 1800sf barn w/green house, AC, & more. $549,000. Patty Bain (401) 965-4822.

East Providence: Spacious 4 bedroom home w many updates throughout. double living rm, den,hardwoods, freshly painted exterior, 2 car garage, newer roof, heating system, and windows. Convenient location. $169,000. Patty Bain (401) 965-4822.

Riverside: Pristine cape in Waddington. New siding, windows, sliders and french door in 3 season rm leading to the garage. New roof, beautiful hwds in fam & dining, private backyard w/deck & above ground pool. Move in condition! $235,000. Lisa Halajko (774) 991-0052

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East Providence, November 14, 2011: City Manager Peter Graczykowski and Mayor Bruce Rogers extend their welcome to the advisory overseer appointed by the office of the Director of Revenue. The City of East Providence and School Committee officials have been continuously meeting with the Rhode Island Auditor General and Director of Revenue, discussing the progress of the deficit reduction plan. The projected deficit is on the School side of the budget in both the current and future fiscal years. A final working document was submitted to the State on November 10, 2011. The plan includes the Fiscal Year 2011-2012 budget deficit reduction from $7,250,728 to $3,242,317. On the Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s side, the $2,983,411 allocation incorporates a contribution from the tax levy, department consolidation savings in the areas of Facilities, Information Technology and Municipal Court, cuts to general government expenses at approximately 10%, and reduction in force for full-time and part-time employees. It also includes the transition to the high deductible health plan for many employee groups and savings realized through procurement of goods and services. On the Schoolsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; side,

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• High Performance & Custom Parts the $1,025,000 decrease includes reduction in force in the area of special education, savings in non-educational services and supplies as well as the anticipated shift of the teachers into the high deductible health plan. The deficit reduction plan also balances the current fiscal year’s budget with additional revenue and saving proposals, which will be provided to the City Council for its review and direction at its November 15th meeting. “Finally, for the first time in many years, the deficit plan addresses the elimination of the calmative deficit,” said Mayor Bruce Rogers. Such projections address the School spending and arrears to School vendors. de At A Time! High e Ri After a review of the plan and consultation with the City, an n O Performace appointment of a fiscal advisory overseer was made to finalize the t... l i u Parts Wh B closing of the $3.2 million remaining budget gap in the current ere Dreams Are fiscal year. The overseer will work closely with the City Manager and Schools to review and pre-approve any significant financial decisions before such decisions are voted on by the City Council. The final budgetary authority still remains vested in the City Council and School Committee, who now are provided access to additional • Factory Trained & ASE Certified State resources as the deficit elimination is brought to a successful Mechanics • State of the Art conclusion. The overseer is also charged with the development of Gift Equipment • Specializing in European, the final plan to balance the City’s budget for the next five years. Certificates Asian & Domestic Vehicles “We look forward to eliminating the remainder of the deficit within Available • Custom Upholstery 120 days,” said City Manager Peter Graczykowski, “as the blueprint for the balanced FY 2011-2012 budget and the future deficit Oil Change Special $19.95 elimination plan have indeed already been developed by the City. most cars • exp 1/15/12 We are proud of our budget deficit reduction achievements in the last 30 days and look forward to a balanced fiscal year 2011-2012 30 Veterans Memorial Parkway • East Providence, RI budget and 5 years thereafter. We are encouraged to be working with the State on the details of the projected deficit elimination plan, www.hotridesinc.com • 401-435-4444 as the plan may include a deficit elimination bond issue. We will Ken Andrade - President Nos Falamos Portuguese also be looking to the State for assistance with the formulation of • Insurance Repairs Welcome the successful and timely implementation of the federal asset forfeiture funds windfall.” “The City has been working with the State on a plan for deficit elimination for a period of years,” said Mayor Bruce Rogers, “previous Councils and School Committees worked on plans to eliminate the deficit but those plans were unfortunately rejected by the Auditor General and following that rejection the deficit remained, carried over from year to year until the Auditor General finally and rightfully so said enough. The current Council and School Committee, as well as City and School Departments have made significant progress in addressing the deficit and for the first time in many years Conveniently Located on Route 44 (Winthrop St) Taunton the State has let us know that we are on the right track and creating a plan which is not only acceptable by eliminating the deficit but will leave East Providence in a • Laser Hair Removal better position financially than it has been • Sun Damage and Age Spot Removal in years. The Council and the City Manager have made consolidations and cuts which • Leg and Facial Vein Treatments have changed the way we do business in • Skin Tightening • Wrinkle Reduction East Providence both in our fiscal house • Diamond Peel Microdermabrasion • And Much More... and in our efficiency of service. City Manager Graczykowski has managed to accomplish so much while only Priti A. Patel, M.D. is now accepting new HOLIDAY SPECIAL having arrived in his position in mid-October *Mention this ad patients for medical practice this year and deserves the credit for get& Receive 15% Off Early Morning and Evening Appointments Available ting East Providence on the right track and Per Treatment preventing the immediate installation of the We Accept All Major Insurance Budget Commission, which was expressly

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proposed by the State. As we expected, we will cooperate and work closely with the overseer and the Auditor General to restore stability to our City.” “While I believe the City has made significant progress in addressing the Schools’ deficit, we are looking to the School Committee to take additional steps to resolve potential, future budget shortfalls,” said Graczykowski, “We will use the resources provided by the overseer to finalize the arrangements between the Schools and their vendors for the arrears for services already provided; evaluate the new teachers collective bargaining agreement in context of the 5-year deficit elimination plan before its final ratification; look at staffing levels in education and non-educational areas; and analyze and propose for implementation the findings of the management audit that is currently conducted at the Schools and the City. In the end, the reason why the State is offering its assistance is because they believe the changes did not go far enough. Not all cuts proposed by the City and School administrations were approved due to a strong public opposition and the desire to continue to provide the current level of service. This means we have more work to do, as we revisit how the City and Schools provide their services in East Providence so that the municipality remains independent and fiscally stable.” The City Council will meet on November 15, 2011 to consider additional deficit reduction measures. Options include further consolidations, use of previous fiscal year surplus, elimination of services, savings from the new energy contract, a one-time supplemental tax increase, as well as additional School proposals which include educational supplies cuts. In addition, the results of the management audit the Council and School Committee called for, which is currently being conducted, will provide the City and Schools with additional proposals for savings and efficiencies. The School Committee is expected to consider additional savings at its next regular meeting.

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Tour of the Mansion including: “Les Petite Dames de Mode & the incredible” “Berkshire Designer Show house” There will be 14 rooms & spaces featuring the talent of the Berkshire’s top interior designers & decorators. An afternoon tea will follow the tour. Lunch will be at the Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge, MA with choice of: Yankee Pot Roast, Pan Seared Salmon, $95.00 Bus leaves: Harbor View @7:45am, City View @ 8:00am Please call Deborah Rochford at 401-435-7513 for reservations or e-mail drochford@cityofeastprov.com.

$2.40 lb. (21 lb. avg.)

• Fruits of Forest $9.15

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(14 lb. avg.)

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141 Narragansett Park Dr. East Providence, RI 02916 Located off Newport Ave. in back of East Providence 10 Cinema

The East Providence Parks & Recreation Department will be taking reservations for:

Friday night, December 30, 2011 Foxwoods Casino

Please call Deborah Rochford at (401) 435-7513 for reservation.

December 2011 The Reporter

New Session Starting For Free EP Teen Hip Hop Dance Class

In collaboration with East Bay Community Action Program the East Providence Parks & Recreation Department will offer a free teen Hip Hop dance program for East Providence teens ages 13 - 18. The 6 week program led by Hip Hop Dancer and East Providence High School Alumnus “Harrison Songolo” from Dexter’s Lab Crew will be held on Wednesdays from 6 – 7pm, November 30, 2011 – January 4 , 2012 at the East Providence Recreation Center located at 100 Bullocks Point Ave. Classes will include fun Hip Hop dance moves to get your body moving, free snacks and fun wellness facts to help keep you healthy and dancing better. All participants will be entered into a drawing to win I -Tune gift cards and other great prizes! There is no program fee however; participants must be East Providence Residents. Space is limited, pre-registration is required. For more information or to register, please call the Recreation Center at 401-433-6360.

Family Holiday Movie Night

Join us at the East Providence Recreation Center, 100 Bullocks Point Ave. for a night of free family holiday fun. We will be showing The Polar Express on the big screen on Friday, December 16th, 2011 from 6-8 p.m. Bring your blankets or sleeping bag to relax on while watching the movie. Popcorn and a beverage provided. This program was made possible with the collaboration of the East Providence Carousel Commission. For more information please call the Recreation Center at 401433-6360.

Senior (50-59) Terry Wnek, 27:02 Pat LaChance, 33:26 Grand Master (60-69) Alan Rondeau, 27:31 Diamond Master (70+) Fred Zuleger, III, 40:32 The following lists all face finishers: David Constantino, 25:04; Andrew Sabourin, 26:00; Terry Wnek, 27:02; Scott Deslongchamps, 27:21; Alan Rondeau, 27:31; Matthew Gingras, 28:10; Joe Demenezes, 29:20; John Delgado, 29:39; Jim Limperis, 29:47; Mike Monagle, 29:55; Erik Glowacki, 30:07; John Thomas, 30:27; Ray Isacco, 30:58; Steven DelRoss, 31:29; Glenn DelRoss, 31:33; Carl Palanzi, 31:54; Kimberly Koness, 33:14; Pat LaChance, 33:26; Rick Ripley, 33:33; David Martin, 33:48; Rachael Procter, 34:26; Nathan Pritts, 34:35; Eric Benevides, 34:39; Frank Baker, 34:40; Anne Chekal, 35:00; Bonnie Colantuono, 35:01; Mike King, 35:11; Karen Colantuono, 35:14; Raymond Olivier, 35:18; Devon Goodwin, 35:30; Dennis Harmon, Jr., 36:06; Chuck Paroline, 36:41; Brian Drainville, 36:55; Charles Clavin, 37:02; Brian Chekal, 37:07; Dave Simmons, 37:32; Gregg Giarrusso, 37:43; Bozena Chmielewski, 37:49; Kurt Mutter, 38:23; Gary Menissian, 38:25; Jim Maloney, 38:29; Dilia Medeiros, 38:40; Susan Clemens, 39:02; John Birtic, 39:41; Sherry Royall, 39:59; Gregg Rizza, 40:02; Ben S. 40:03; Michelle White, 40:29; Fred Zuleger III, 40:32; Anna Pierce, 40:35; Mike Whittet, 40:40; Stan Kurzynski, 42:31; Patricia Kurzynski, 42:33; Ken Jancef, 42:37; Chris Clavin, 42:54; Elysha Grant, 42;58; Mary Anne Donato, 43:05; Mary Maloney, 43:31; Douglas Procter, 49:22; Mark Drainville, 101:27; Lynne Goodwin, 110:00; Sarah Meriu, 110:05; Susan Salvatore, 110:06.

WINTERFEST December 10, 2011

Doors Open 3pm Craft & Food Vendors, Family Bingo Children’s Activities Music by The Lucky Dog Band 6:30~7:30pm FREE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

2011 Turkey Trot Road Race Results

The East Providence Parks & Recreation Department sponsored the 31st annual Turkey Trot Charity Road Race on Saturday, November 19, 2011. There were 65 runners in the 4.3 mile fun run. Special thanks to race official Edward Cronan, the East Providence Police Dept. for ensuring the safety of the event, Pat LaChance and Bill Caine for their support and generous donations, All Coast Physical Therapy, and the Recreation Dept. staff for their assistance and dedication. Race results are as follows: Winner of the Edward Cronan Sr. Memorial trophy is: Mike Monagle. This award is presented to the first East Providence resident to finish the race. Division Winners: Male Female Junior (18 & under) Mike Monagle, 29:55 Elysha Grant, 42:58 Open (19-39) Andrew Sabourin, 26:00 Rachael Procter, 34:26 Master (40-49) David Constantino, 25:04 Kimberly Koness, 33:14

top left: Mike Monagle wins the 2011 Edward Cronan Sr. Memorial Trophy presented to the 1st EP resident to finish the Turkey Trot road race. Mike also won the Junior division, (age 18 and under) above: Fred Zuleger, III won the Turkey Trot’s “Diamond Master” division, (age 70 & over) left: Bryan Silva, Physical Therapist & owner of All Coast Physical Therapy in East Providence volunteered at the 2011 Turkey Trot road race. He’s assisting runner Kimberly Koness.

The Reporter December 2011

Cong ratulations 2011 Chamber Award Recipients! Congratulations Business of the Year: East Commerce Solutions Board Member of the Year: Dean Martins, Metacomet Country Club Chamber Member of the Year: Deborah Pedreira, Webster Bank Chamber Champion: Judy de Perla, Come and Play Productions, LLC

Happy Holidays! Shop Local and Support the Businesses in our Community.

Visit the Chamber's online business directory. www.eastprovchamber.com

Monday, December 12, 2011 Uncle Jayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Monday Night Networking 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Co-hosted by East Providence Area Chamber of Commerce Network with business professionals in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Bring plenty of business cards.Bring a friend. Open to the public. Appetizers, door prizes and a cash bar.

Admission: Only $5.00 Location: DiParma Italian Table Restaurant 940 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk, MA Visit the Chamber's Web site for Chamber Calendar of Events, directory of member businesses, news & more.

Serving the communities of East Providence & Barrington, RI and Seekonk & Rehoboth, MA

East Providence Area Chamber of Commerce 1011 Waterman Avenue East Providence, Rhode Island 02914 phone: 401.438.1212 fax: 401.435.4581 email: office@eastprovchamber.com

www.eastprovchamber.com

Contact the Chamber to register: phone:401.438.1212 email: office@eastprovchamber.com

Welcome New Chamber Members

Fogarty Auto Body Metro West Business Services PartyMakers Peter J. Liberto, O.D. Red Wing Shoe Store

December 2011 The Reporter

From the Mayor’s Office By Bruce Rogers

This submission is a detailed summary of the Mayor’s speech at the November 29, 2011 Council meeting. Tonight, again, I must address the City’s ongoing deficit on behalf of all 47,000 residents of the City of East Providence. This is necessary due to years and years of neglect and inaction by previous administrations. It is also due to new State legislation which amends Chapter 45-9 and allows the State to appoint a fiscal overseer to assist with cities and towns financial hardships. I am asking everyone tonight to assist me in taking back our City. We must take stands which affect our City both immediately and long range to resolve any continuing and new anticipated deficits. First I ask that an inventory be taken by our City Manager of all City vehicles. Each vehicle should then be signed out when needed by a City employee for a certain authorized task and not assigned to any particular person. This will allow the taxpayers of East Providence to be assured that there is no abuse of usage and would save gasoline consumption in our City. Any excess vehicles should then be listed as surplus and possibly sold. I also call on the City Manager to address and investigate the use of straight salt for treatment during the winter as opposed to the use of a salt/sand mixture. This should not only save money but would also reduce the amount of corrosion which happens with straight salt on the undercarriages of our City’s trucks as well as in our sewer drainage system. In the spring and summer, the lack of the City’s use of a “Hot Box” or spreader to hold tar at a certain temperature creates the situation of returning hundreds if not thousands of pounds of tar back to the company that we purchase it from so they can reheat and resell it. We may not be receiving a credit for this returned tar and the City Manager needs to investigate or search for a new company which will credit us. I am also questioning the policy of having 4 or 5 supervisors in our City’s Water Department when there are only 15 or so employees in that same department. The elimination of some of these positions should save tens of or hundreds of thousands of dollars. With the fiscal overseer in our midst, and his ability to reject grants which may not be essential, I am calling for the City Manager to look into the possibility of eliminating some non-essential positions in the Planning Department as well as restructuring that entire department, without effecting and in all actuality possibly helping with the City Council’s stand on developing a strong economic development division. Of course any position which is eliminated, if need be, in the future can be reinstated. I, again, for the third time having received a unanimous vote from the City Council am calling for the continued consolidation of most if not all City and School Departments. At a meeting at which I attended, these consolidations were endorsed by the State Director of Revenue. With the Facilities Management Department and IT Department consolidations working to benefit the constituency of our City, both efficiently and financially and the beginning of the consolidation of Municipal Court with the City Clerk’s office, the State’s Director of Revenue as well as the majority on this City Council have been proven correct and we must to go forward in this vein. I once again call for the consolidations of the Human Resources and Finance Departments. In regards to the Finance Department, my feeling, which is being suggested to the City Manager, is to eliminate some non-essential positions within the Finance Department. The savings in these salaries and benefits should be used

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The Reporter December 2011

to create the important position of Assistant or Deputy Finance Director. The need for this position was clear, during the past budgetary process when our former Finance Director took ill and no City employee existed that could provide the City Manager, the Council, the Department Heads and most of all the residents of East Providence with the information needed to begin the budgetary process. The people of our City are demanding this position and I am in full support. I’ve also called for a full report on the cost of our Legal Department, staff attorneys, specialists, paralegals and all secretarial staff. This is a very pricey department with an estimated cost nearing a million dollars and I want to make sure that we are looking for savings in all areas of this department both on the City and School side. I was instrumental in and am wholeheartedly supporting the continued negotiations with United Water to extend our current contract possibly generating a million dollars. The City Administration has been working on this for a month or so and should continue to do so in a most timely fashion, as time is of the essence. I am supporting and will advise the use of surplus funds to eliminate our deficit and balance our budget. This is our “rainy day”. I pledge to support the Bacon and Company analysis of the School Budget which I am told may suggest hundreds of thousands of dollars in additional reductions of non-essential expenses, supplies and salaries. I strongly advise the City Manager to obtain this report in writing as soon as possible as it is extremely important to the finances of our City. Let’s submit a request to Bacon and Company for an immediate presentation. These three above items should result in millions of dollars available to our City in revenues and savings. Long range increased revenue plans should include but not be limited to a full inventory of surplus City buildings and properties coupled with an aggressive real estate marketing push to sell

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these properties. Again they should include but not be limited to – Waters School, Bentley Street, Tristum Burges, Union Primary School, the Odd Fellows Home, the Geonova Property, possibly Burnside Avenue as well as the leasing of the Weaver House and the two buildings soon to be vacated next to the Senior Center. Again, hundreds of thousands of dollars of new revenue, perhaps the City Administration should look into subcontracting with an outside firm to speed this along. I have called for and am seriously asking for a report on hosting fees for recycling facilities in our community. I ask the administration – what is the status of this report? Again this could mean hundreds of thousand if not millions of dollars of new revenue. In regards to, asset forfeiture monies and in particular the “Google money”, I have asked for a workshop or at the very least a status report on what these millions of dollars can be used for and how creative we can be in saving our City from this financial crisis by the use of these funds. I want to caution the City Administration that the use of these funds for any “new” projects could create an ongoing maintenance expense situation which this City may not be able to afford in the future. The City Council should and must be informed of the proposed usage of these funds in their entirety. Where is this report? Finally, I feel compelled to propose the following policies, resolutions or ordinances, if necessary to help with our dire situation. I propose a resolution to be prepared by our Law Department and presented to this City Council for support to authorize our financial experts (namely the City Manager, Finance Director and Human Resource Director) to examine and scrutinize line by line expense savings in the School Budget for strong recommendations to the School’s Finance Department as well as to the School Committee and City Council. This examination should not impact the Basic Education Plan. It should focus on duplication of personnel. It should include identifying service contracts which may be able to be renegotiated as well as the elimination of certain noneducational programs. I would further state that hopefully the Bacon and Company report would be a tool to assist the Administration. General Treasurer Gina Raimondo, out of necessity has asked all cities and towns to take a hard look at their pension plans. The suggestions that have been made and which the City Administration must look into include switching to the MERS System for all new City employees; possibly raising minimum years of employment for retirement as well as minimum age of retirement. These should include an experience study to project how long retirees will live so as to adjust the amount of the unfunded liability in these pensions. If necessary, I would support the hiring of a Pension Consulting Firm to assist the City during this process. I propose a Budget Review Commission made up of private citizens only with input from all Council members and the City Manager and Finance Director. This commission should look into recommending a position by position listing in our proposed budgets with cost of salary and all benefits projected out so as the City Council and citizenry can see and analyze actual savings when proposing any position eliminations. This commission should also request a job description of each position to be listed in the budget. Their duties should include but not be limited to the above issues. They should be available to advise in the preparation of the yearly budget. This commission should be created now and should be on going. I ask that all City Council members support my proposals on behalf of the hard working, taxpaying residents of our City. To all the residents of East Providence, I want to wish you and your family, a happy and healthy Holiday Season. Please join us this year at our first Winter Fest being held at the East Providence Senior Center, at the corner of Waterman and Pawtucket Avenues on December 3rd at 3pm, lights will be on nightly from 5pm-9pm for a month.

December 2011 The Reporter

Meeting with the Mayor By Bob Rodericks

(Elected Mayor Form of Government Coming?) City residents can meet with certain city council members during evening hours to gripe, complain, congratulate or ask general questions one on one. Mayor Bruce Rogers believes that it gives residents a chance to meet individually as opposed to sitting through an hour’s long council meeting in a full city hall council chamber. “Some people don’t feel comfortable asking questions in public but they like the idea of sitting down one on one,” said Rogers during one of his November sessions. “We’re looking for new ways of saving money and we lack a go-between with the city management team,” said the Mayor. During our visit with Mayor Rogers, city manager Peter Graczykowski stopped by after a meeting with the new financial “overseer” sent in by the state police. Graczykowski wanted to discuss budget updates with the Mayor and told the Reporter that “I’m cautiously confident that, together, we can improve our financial status without turning to bankruptcy,” he said. “A lot of plans are now set in motion,” Graczykowski said, “and we also have to give the state a 5 year plan for moving forward. That won’t be easy”, added the Manager. The city manager also would like to see the city change its’ fiscal year to align with the state. East Providence is the only city that has a July to July fiscal year. The city would like to move to a January 1st schedule but the move remains costly to do so. “We’re trying,” said Rogers. “Our last city manager was among the state’s highest paid while now Mr. Graczykowski is one of the lowest paid. “I am also working with Senator Frank DeVall to find funding for a grant writer who would work for the entire city on a per diem basis,” said Rogers. “This person would be paid through the grants and seek the millions of dollars that are available and evidently are going elsewhere,” he added. People began to line up to speak with the Mayor. “I have a constituent list with everything from pot holes to bridge repairs, school issues and of course, the budget,” said Rogers. A couple from the Rumford area near the Pond View site wanted to discuss the controversial issues surrounding Pond View expansion. The residents told Rogers that they weren’t going to necessarily agree with him on Pond View but they appreciated the opportunity to hold an open, honest discussion on the issue. When asked his opinion on the city manager form of government versus the elected mayor system, city manager Graczykowski offered, “yes, what is your opinion, Mayor?” Smiling at Graczykowski, Rogers said that “it is hard to do business with this form of government. Our charter prevents council people from dealing direct with department heads and we miss out on some state and federal funding.” However Rogers went on to say that “things are better here now with Mr. Graczykowski as Manager. The form of government works better now with him here,” he said. Rogers was critical of former manager Richard Brown and former mayor Joseph Larisa for “going to the state to raise taxes beyond the state cap without a vote of the council.” Notwithstanding his support for the new city manager, Rogers said that he would support “placing the issue on the ballot for local voters to decide.” The effort to change to an elected Mayor such as Cranston, Warwick and Providence was defeated three prior times (1974, 1987, 1990) by local voters. “I support letting the voters decide the issue,” Rogers said. “Okay,” said East Providence’s new appointed city manager. Graczykowski and his wife have a 4 year old son.

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Mayor and residents discuss Pond View.

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The Reporter December 2011

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Save this date! The East Providence High School Class of 1982 will celebrate their 30th reunion on Saturday, October 6, 2012 at the Hillside Country Club, Rehoboth, Mass. Tickets cost $50 per person. For information, contact Dawn Gama Eccleston, dawn9093@aol.com; Karen Costa Rebello, hkydad16@aol.com; or Cathy Barilla Anthony, caanthony78@gmail.com. EPHS Class of 1982 Committee: Kristin Lapane Hayes-Leite - khayes9@cox.net Lori Kiley Garcia - lori_kiley_garcia@hotmail.com Karen Costa Rebello - hkydad16@aol.com Theresa Guarino Fagan Cathy Barilla Anthony – caanthony78@gmail.com Bernice Burke Dengel - dengel95@verizon.net Dawn Gama Eccleston- dawn9093@aol.com Tricia Chalmers – pchalm64@yahoo.com

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Chopin Club Musicale Sunday December 11 @ 2 P.M.

The Chopin Club, the oldest music club in America, will host a musicale on Sunday, December 11th at 2 P.M. at the Music Mansion, 88 Meeting Street, on the East Side of Providence. The free concert is open to Club members and to the public. Performers scheduled to appear include Barbara Speer, piano, Philip Martorella, piano, Ian O’Brien, tenor. The program includes selections from Liszt and Chopin.

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WHY a Virgin named Mary? Event Date(s): Saturdays, 12/10/2011 Venue / Location Information: Name: Eusebeia Bible Church (EBC) Address: 600 Taunton Ave., Bldg.B City: Seekonk, State: MA.

Event Time / Additional Information: 4:00-5:00 Contact Info: Scott Grande, scottg2011@gmail.com Web site: www.here-it-is.org We are having this special Christmas event to answer this interesting question about Mary, from the scriptures. Presentation to include a skit, a Facebook video, Presentation, and music video. It is a casual no cost event, to be followed by music and food and fun. Please feel free to come with friends and know that there is no obligation of any kind! This is open to the entire community for those who want to learn more about the Christmas season.

December 2011 The Reporter

Treasure the Holidays Tips for Creating Meaningful New Holiday Traditions

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(ARA) - Holidays are a great time to celebrate traditions with family and friends, and every family has unique activities they love to observe year after year. You can incorporate new traditions into the holidays to bring more memorable fun to your gatherings. Here are some simple tips for creating meaningful new traditions that can bring joy to your holidays every year. * Organize a visit from Santa. Encourage your family or friends to come over for a potluck breakfast or lunch. As the festivities get into full swing, invite Santa to join in the fun. Organize goodie bags for children to take home from Santa. Don’t forget to have a camera on hand to capture the children’s special moments. * Build a gingerbread house with your family. Roll up your sleeves, start your oven and put your architecture skills to the test. Decorate the house with each family member’s favorite candies in all colors. Adorn the lawn with Archway Gingerbread Men, which can be easily decorated with icing and candy buttons. * Draw names and trade inexpensive gifts. You can turn this into a secret Santa exchange, or for a little more fun and hilarity, turn the exchange into a white elephant party, where participants are allowed to “steal” inexpensive gifts from one another. Your party doesn’t have to only involve your local friends and family. Invite your friends from all over the country to participate in a gift exchange via Skype or email - it’s a great way to have something fun pop up in your mailbox over the holiday season. Continued on next page...

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The Reporter December 2011

It's the most wonderful * Cookies are a part of many holiday traditions. In fact, a recent holiday survey conducted by Archway found that cookies are a part of more than 80 percent of respondents’ traditions each year. Incorporate cookies into new traditions by hosting a cookie exchange with your coworkers, neighbors, family members or friends. Use a mix of homemade and favorite Archway holiday cookies such as Bells and Stars, which are back by popular demand for the 2011 holiday season. * Give back to your community. Volunteer at a local soup kitchen. Sing holiday carols in nursing homes and senior centers. Organize a food drive for your local food bank. Have young children go through their toys and pick one or two to donate to a local shelter. This will help children participate in the joy of giving. There are a lot of ways you and your family can help others. You might decide to do the same thing each year or come up with new ways to give back. * Create a video or online photo album. This tradition is especially poignant for families with loved ones who are away for the season and unable to attend the family celebrations (for example, families with someone in the military). Set up a video camera and have everyone share a message for the absent loved one. Take lots of photos during your holiday celebrations and create a photo album online that can be accessed by those who are not present.

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December 2011 The Reporter

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December 2011 The Reporter

for holiday party planning and gifts! * Sending a holiday care package to a loved one in the military or a long distance friend? Help it stand out among the rest by sealing it with EZ Start’s Cinnamon Snow or Reindeer Games seasonal packaging tape prints. They’ll be sure to open yours first.

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Advent Lessons and Carols Service with RI Brass Quartet at 9:30 am. Christmas play “Miriamne’s Dream” at 4:00 pm with performances by Newman’s Christmas Orchestra – Fun for all ages!

Poinsettia Sunday Service at 9:30 a.m. Messiah Christmas Concert at 3:00 p.m. with performances from Newman’s Adult Choir and Providence Adult String Ensemble (PASE).

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The Reporter December 2011

Wishing you all aMerry Christmas... Creative Styles

Family Favorite It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio PlayReturns To Trinity Rep Next Month Adaptation Of Beloved Film Returns By Popular Demand DEC. 9 – 31ST

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Providence –Trinity Rep is pleased to announce that for a second holiday season, your family will have another spirited offering to enjoy, with It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play, an adaptation of the heartwarming film classic. Five actors from Trinity Rep’s resident company will bring Frank Capra’s Bedford Falls to life on stage. Directed by Trinity Rep’s Associate Artistic Director Tyler Dobrowsky, the show opens in previews December 9 and runs through December 31, 2011 in the Dowling Theater. Tickets are on sale now at the Trinity Rep box office, 201 Washington St.; by phone at (401) 351-4242; and online at www.trinityrep.com. Resident acting company members Mauro Hantman (George Bailey), Rachael Warren (Mary Hatch), Joe Wilson Jr. (Clarence the Angel), Annie Scurria (Violet Bick), and Tim Crowe (Old Man Potter) will create over 50 memorable characters as an ensemble cast. After years of putting off his own dreams to help others, everyman George Bailey (Hantman) finds himself on the wrong end of humanity as his luck takes a nosedive when a rival businessman steals his last penny – along with his reputation. Drunk and despondent on Christmas Eve, George is about to end his life by jumping into an icy river so that his family can collect on his life insurance policy – until guardian angel Clarence (Wilson) steps

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in to save him. Bailey rebuffs Clarence’s dose of perspective by angrily wishing he’d never been born. Clarence obliges, showing George what life in Bedford Falls would have been like without him – after which he sees, despite his run of bad luck, that he’s truly “the richest man in town.” Trinity Rep’s production is set as a period radio play, being broadcast on Christmas Eve, 1949. The show’s five actors and a skillful Foley artist (Benji Inniger), who manually produces the show’s sound effects, act out the story. Director Tyler Dobrowsky praises, “it’s fascinating to watch the sound effects, like ice breaking or a car door slamming, be performed on stage.” In this way, Trinity Rep audiences will not only experience the heartwarming tale of George Bailey, but also the ingenuity and entertainment of actors performing a radio play in 1949. “Because we stage this show in such a unique way, everyone from young children to grandparents can find something enjoyable about Wonderful Life- it really makes for a satisfying evening at the theater for the whole family.” Following the overwhelmingly positive response to the show last year, Trinity Rep decided to bring the production back for a second holiday season. Dobrowsky attributes the success of last year’s production to the story’s powerful resonance with audiences. “When you come to the end of story, and George Bailey is back at his home, surrounded by loved ones, it makes you realize what’s truly important: love, charity, family, friends,” he noted. Dobrowsky believed it was important to once again offer audiences a reflective and festive holiday offering that celebrates the hope and magic of the season. It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play features sets by Michael McGarty, costumes by Alison Walker Carrier, lighting by John Ambrosone, and sound design by Peter Sasha Hurowitz. Tyler Dobrowsky (director) is Trinity Rep’s associate artistic director. He was the dramaturg on The Dreams of Antigone, and assistant director for Shooting Star, both at Trinity Rep. From 2004-2009, as the company’s education director, he oversaw the

December 2011 The Reporter

and a Happy New Year!

expansion of the Young Actors Studio after-school and summer programs, as well as Trinity’s landmark Project Discovery program. Tyler received his MA in Education Policy from Brown University, and studied history, theater and Russian at Holy Cross. He teaches for the Brown/Trinity Rep MFA program, as well as Trinity Rep’s education programs for children and adults. Playwright Joe Landry’s published plays include Vintage Hitchcock and Reefer Madness. Other projects include Mothers and Sons, a musical (with Kevin Connors) and Lifeboat, Custom Picture 1460 Fall River Avenue (RouteFraming 6) Dahling! (with Bert Bernardi). He is the founder of Second Guess Theatre Company, mem-Fall 1460 RiverMassachusetts Avenue (Route 6) 508-336-8119 Seekonk, 02771Anything! We Can Frame ber of the Dramatists Guild, and currently teaches playwriting at Sacred Heart University. Seekonk, Massachusetts 02771 508-336-8119 • Fine Art Prints Hours: Evening performances are Tuesdays through Sundays at 7:30 p.m. with selected • Town Maps Mon-Fri 10-6 Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday Matinees at 2 p.m. On December 24, there will be • Nautical Charts Sat 10-5 a matinee at 12PM and an evening performance at 5 P.M.; on December 31, there will • Cross Stitch be a matinee at 12 P.M. and an evening show at 5PM. There will be no performance on December 25. The first performance on December 9, 2011 at 7:30 P.M. is Pay What You Can (PWYC). Any Custom PWYC tickets go on sale at 6:30 pm, limit one per person. Regular priced tickets for It’s A Picture Framing Wonderful Life range $42- $66. Additional rush tickets and discounted tickets for subscribers, groups, students and seniors are also available, call box office for details. For information Exp 12/31/11 ($50 or more) on group rates (parties of 10 or more) contact Group Sales at (401) 351-4242. $42- $66 Trinity Rep’s 48th season is sponsored by NBC 10, with supporting sponsors Cox 1460 Fall River Avenue (Rt. 6) Seekonk, MA Media, Rhode Island Monthly and RISCA. Commonwealth Square • 1/2 mile South of Kohls

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Pets fill our lives with love and joy… Don’t we owe it to them to make sure their pet’s bowls never go unfilled?

Hands That Heal RI “No Empty Bowls” Pet Food Drive Hands That Heal RI, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization assisting the elderly and needy in caring for their pets, is holding a “No Empty Bowls” Pet Food Drive beginning December 1 and running through December 31, 2011. Pet food collected in our local “No Empty Bowls” Pet Food Drive will be distributed to the elderly and needy pet owners whose capacity to care for their pets, no matter what kind, has been compromised by frailty, illness, or inadequate income. We are seeking local businesses to serve as drop-off locations for the pet food donations. As a supporter of the campaign, businesses will be mentioned in all promotional efforts to the public and local media. Plus, you’d be supporting a great cause and benefiting Hands That Heal RI. For more information about placing a collection box at your location or to drop off a donation call Executive Director Lauren Young at 401-647-2702 or handsthathealri@aol.com. Please Support Hands That Heal RI www.handsthathealri.org.

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The Reporter December 2011

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Christmas is only a few days away so get your orders in for the Lions Commemorative Christmas Ornaments. This year’s design, pictured below, is a wreath which proudly displays a Townie Pride banner. We have re-ordered a small supply of the ornaments from the last three years. They depict the clock tower at the high school, the main gates at Pierce Field, and Weaver Library, so if you missed out on them here is your chance. Each ornament is $15 and may be purchased from any member of the Rumford Lions. You may also order by mailing payment (add $1.50 shipping per ornament). Please include your return address and telephone number. Rumford Lions; PO Box 4921, Rumford, RI 02916

St. Brendan Forever Young Club

St. Brendan Forever Young Club will hold their Christmas party meeting at the Vineyard East Restaurant, 315 Waterman Avenue, East Providence on December 13 at 1:00 p.m. Choices are chicken parm, baked fish, or steak. Tickets are $20 and can be reserved by calling Alice at 433-0427 or Helen at 433-1702. Membership is open all year and we welcome everyone 55 and older to join us. Please call Alice or Helen for reservations. Filled stockings for our Troops should be brought to this celebration.

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December 2011 The Reporter

Club News & Announcements Email news@eastprovreporter.com or

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Come on over to our “family” friendly atmosphere All ages are welcomed!

The kitchen is open for lunch at 12:30 p.M. And features weekly specials along with our usual menu of steak & cheese sandwiches, hamburgers, hot dogs, french fries and more…….. Also free popcorn We give away a 32” flat screen t.V. Or your choice of $ 300.00 Cash every week in addition to whole rib eyes, lobsters, variety of meats, gift cards and cash. All proceeds to benefit knights of columbus charities For more info call 401-433-0930 or 401-230-4802

CHADD (Children and Adults with ADHD) December 7, 7 p.m. Special Education Law and ADHD Bradley Hospital Pine Room East Providence Free to members. $5 donation for guests.

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The next regular meeting will be held at the Riverside Congregational church on Thursday, February 2nd, at 12:30 PM at which time tickets for the St. Patrick’s Day Corned Beef and Cabbage Luncheon will be sold for $16.00. Members are asked to bring non-perishable food items for the food bank and pennies for charity.

Riverside Circle#28, Daughters of Isabella Christmas Party

Riverside Circle#28, Daughters of Isabella is planning a Christmas party for its December meeting. The party will be held at the Davenport Restaurant, Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence on Wednesday, December 7, 2011 at 6:00 P.M. Tickets are $24.00, and reservations should be made by Saturday, December 3, 2011. Members are asked to bring a new, unwrapped toy to the party, which will be given to the U.S. Marine’s Toys for Tots Program. Call Diane (744-7119) for information and reservations.

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Improve your communication, presentation and leadership skills. Toastmasters will give you the skills and confidence you need to effectively express yourself in any situation. Whether you are a professional, student, stay-at-home parent or retiree, Toastmasters is the most efficient, enjoyable and affordable way of gaining great communication skills. You’ll be more persuasive and confident when speaking, and you’ll improve your one-on-one dealings with others. Meetings are held the first and third Thursday each month at the United Methodist Eldercare at 30 Alexander Ave, East Providence, RI, 02914 Meetings start at 5:30 and end at 7:30 p.m. The meetings for December are the first and 15th. Visit us at http://eastbay.freetoasthost.us/index.html or contact us at Shae. mcwilliams@cox.net.

Singles Over Sixty SOS

Happy Holidays from the SOS gang! We are six months old and still going strong. Our club is about socializing and having fun in the east bay area. This is not a dating service and is not for married couples or single couples. Join us after the holidays. For more information contact careda1@cox.net.

Busy Times For Rumford Lions

The months of October and November have kept the Rumford Lions very busy. One Saturday in October you may have seen several people in orange vests picking up trash along routes 114A & 114. Three times a year the Lions clean the section of highway from the East Providence/Seekonk border on 114A to the Pawtucket city line on 114. Eight large bags of trash were collected. Next time you think of tossing something out your car window please DON’T. Also in October more Lions could be seen raking leaves and picking up debris at the Rumford branch of the library. This has become both a fall and spring event. Early in November the Lions hosted a ham and bean supper at the Santa Maria hall on Broadway. Guests were treated to ham, beans baked with a secret recipe, coleslaw, bread, coffee and make your own sundaes. We would like to thank all who attended and to the merchants who provided prizes. The proceeds from this event helped pay for groceries and turkeys that were distributed to families throughout East Providence for their Thanksgiving meal. During the months of October and November the Rumford Lions visited every public and parochial school in East Providence and provided eye screening for 2,822 students. Students are test for both near and distance vision and those who tested below the accepted level were referred to the school nurse for further testing. If you are interested in joining in with a group of active community minded people please contact us at Rumfordlions@cox. net. Membership is open to all.

The Reporter December 2011

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Elections matter. That is the lesson to be learned from the recent East Providence fiscal fiasco. Who would have thought that our great city – not Pawtucket, Providence, West Warwick • Walkways • or Woonsocket – would be the next municipality after Central Falls to face state takeover? • Retaining Walls • Patios The truth is that it was not hard to predict given the big labor backed team that took over • Hydroseeding • Bobcat Services the city a year ago. The reported reasons for the new state overseer are that East Providence confronts an Residential FREE Estimates & Commercial Fully Insured accumulated school deficit of over $7 million and anticipated school deficits of $3 million Call Today! and more this year and for years to come. This, however, is not core of the problem. In508.252.4554 deed, as the state notes, this financial mess is much smaller than those in other struggling www.SuperiorLCinc.com communities. The real problem? The lack of desire by the new school committee and Cell 508-400-3764 Matt Blais, owner Residential FREE Estimates council to make the tough cuts in salaries and benefits necessary to balance the budget. & Commercial Fully Insured How do I know this? Because the last East Providence council and school commitCall Today! tee inherited an even worse fiscal mess and school spending problem – but we solved it, while preserving essential city programs and even enhancing school programs, all while www.SuperiorLCinc.com steadfastly sticking to the city’s 3.5% property tax rate cap. Cell 508-400-3764 Matt Blais, owner When I took office as mayor with assistant mayor Bob Cusack, and a new school committee on December 2, 2008, the schools had accumulated a deficit of $5.1 million. The deficit was largely due to an outrageous teacher contract that guaranteed 0% healthcare coshares, over $600,000 annually in healthcare “buybacks” (for those who did not take health insurance), and pay increases averaging over 6% in the last year of the contract. The schools, as today, forecast multimillion dollar deficits for years to come. Moreover, unlike today, the state aid to the city as well as its schools was to be slashed over the following two years. What did we do in the face of this fiscal nightmare? The “easy” thing to do would have been a big tax increase. That’s what big labor demanded then and demands now. East Providence, however, is not a wealthy community. We have a high population of seniors on fixed incomes and many families struggling to stay in their homes. Fortunately, we had a school committee, led by Tony East Bay Chapter – CMA Carcieri, and a supportive superintendent and finance whiz, who (Christian Motorcycle Association) realized that overspending had to stop and who were determined to E-mail kingdom_cruzers@yahoo.com take heroic actions to balance the school budget and pay back the accumulated deficit – without a draconian property tax increase that our residents could ill afford. Unlike the present situation, the prior *Meeting - Last Thursday of the month school committee and council worked hand in hand for two years. *Chelo's Restaurant, 911 Warren Ave, East Providence, RI With a big tax increase off the table, there were only two op* Meeting 7pm to 9pm tions – 1) cut employee costs by millions on the school and city sides; or 2) let the state come in and increase taxes by double CMA information: www.cmausa.org digits and/or put us into bankruptcy. We opted for the former, knowing it was the right thing to do for our citizens. Economic justice would be served through shared sacrifice during the “Great Recession.” Taxpayers would see a 3.5% property tax increase with all essential city services preserved, almost all employees would keep their jobs but with lower pay and benefits, and all would gain from preventing a state takeover or Central Falls type bankruptcy. I proudly displayed at every council meeting a “no 10% tax increase” sign to remind residents that we were sticking to the tax cap and Gold, Silver, and Sterling fighting for them. Either we make these tough cuts and balance u.s. and Foreign coins the budget or we face state takeover and the largest tax increase old comics and sporting cards in East Providence history. While right, it was neither easy nor fun. We had very public batold watches and collectibles tles with the teachers’ union and police union and stood steadfast diamonds and jewlery against a bad contract with the fire union. When the dust settled, the city budget was reduced by $2 million and school side salaries and benefits were reduced by over $4 million. We left office with a phone # 508 336-9103 balanced budget presented to the new council and school commit113 taunton avenue tee as well as a plan to pay off the entire accumulated school deficit seekonk, mass same location for 40 years

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December 2011 The Reporter

with new state school aid over 4 years. The acting auditor general did not approve it, but only because he wanted more money paid in the first two years. Had we been reelected, this problem would have been easily solved. We were, however, not reelected. As the saying goes, no good deed goes unpunished. Big labor targeted our team and took all of us out. The school committee is now entirely populated by their endorsed candidates, and the council is too. Their first acts? Fire the professionals that made the budget cutting possible. Gone are the school superintendent, his chief financial officer and the city manager – all without cause. On the labor front, the council unanimously settled on a contract with the firefighters that we had rejected as far too generous and unaffordable. They undid other savings. As just one example, we privatized janitorial service (after the union would not give us the savings we needed) that was costing taxpayers almost $650,000 for 10 custodians. A private contractor did the same work for less than half that price. After we left office, a renegade labor arbitrator rendered a decision that we could not privatize, even though the contract had no prohibition on subcontracting. Instead of appealing to the courts and reversing this outrageous ruling, the new council unanimously agreed to pay the custodians up to $175,000 in back pay and benefits for doing no work – and to hire everyone back who wanted a job at their prior salaries and benefits. What will happen now? We could hope that East Providence public officials would reverse course and put the public interest over the special interests, as the Governor, Treasurer and General Assembly just did on pension reform. Fat chance. What will likely happen is exactly what we refused to let happen the last two years – the big supplemental tax increase. City leaders will claim to be against it (just as they were against state intervention), but will not make the necessary cuts to stop it – then the State will impose the big tax increase. Bad things happen when good people stay uninformed or at home on election day. On that day in 2010 the rapid and disheartening decline in the City of East Providence began. Joe Larisa served four terms as Mayor of East Providence, a position elected by the Council from among its members. His latest term ended on December 1, 2010. He also served as councilman at large for the City from 1992-2002 and 2004-06 and 2008-10.

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Bob Burnett: Bob Burnett is a part of American music history. Born in Mystic, CT, an active sailor and Harvard Law graduate, Bob had a successful career both inside and outside of the world of music. Bob has used his degree as a trust officer at several banks headquartered in Providence, RI A 2nd tenor, Bob sang with The Highwaymen; a 60’s folk group famous for Michael, Row the Boat Ashore, Cottonfields, and The Gypsy Rover. Founded in 1958, The Highwaymen continued to perform for more than 50 years. The group auditioned in New York in the fall of 1959 for three major booking agencies which led to a record contract with United Artists and professional management from Ken Greengrass, who also managed more traditional performers such as Eydie Gorme and Steve Lawrence. So early on we had one foot in a developing new genre and the other grounded in the traditional business of popular music performance. Fortunately for us, Bob Burnett and his wife, Cathy, decided to join our local community chorus. We consider ourselves quite fortunate to have such a part of American music history in our midst. Betty Capaldo is a true Townie! Residing in Riverside since the age of 3; Betty graduated from EPHS and continued her studies at Rhode Island College, where she earned both a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education and several years later, a Master of Education degree. Music has been an integral part of Betty’s life. She enjoyed singing with the Choraleers at EPHS under the direction of Richard Fairbanks. She continues to sing with her church which she joined in 1973. Betty also sang in the EP Community Chorus for 15 years under the

December 2011 The Reporter

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children. Dick is looking forward to seeing former students, especially the singers of the Choraleers and Meistersingers, as well as member of the former East Providence Community Chorus which he directed from1962-1972 .

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direction of Ron Procopio. Actively involved in the COEP, Betty served as its first President from 2007 – 2010. Under the direction of Beth Armstrong, this chorus experience has taken Betty’s appreciation of music and singing to a new and different level, making the past 4 years with The Chorus most exciting, fulfilling and fun! R i c h a r d Fa i rbanks: A longtime favorite in East Providence, Richard Fairbanks has a wealthy musical background. His teaching career brought him to EPHS where he taught from 1961 – 1989. During his tenure at the high school he received Teacher of the Year award in 1974 and brought the Choraleers on concert tours of: British Isles, Portugal, Europe, Hawaii and Bermuda. As a member of the first East Providence Community Chorus he shared choral music with a wider audience, and directed the group from 1962 – 1972. It is because of his love of music and dedication to his craft that we are here today, to continue his legacy. Dick resides in Plymouth, Massachusetts with his wife Janice. They are the parents of three children, Elizabeth Meyers and her husband Scott, Steven Fairbanks and his wife Maura, and Richard Fairbanks, Jr. and his wife Jonelle. Dick and Janice are the proud grandparents of four grand-

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Brendan and St. Margaret parishes where he taught elementary school music and religion, in addition to musically directing the adult and children’s choirs. While at St. Brendan; Ron had the opportunity to direct a three-city tour of Italy, where he and the St. Brendan Choir performed for Pope John Paul II. Actively involved in the local community theater scene, Ron has served as musical director for The Community Players, Newport Playhouse, Barker Playhouse and The Granite Theater. Ron resides in Rumford, RI with his loving wife, Veronica (Roni). He is the proud father of three children; RJ, Ryan and Kristen. These days the music Ron most enjoys listening to is the sound of his grandson, Brady’s laughter. Bill Harley: A two-time Grammy Award winner and multiple nominee; Bill is a nationally touring, critically-acclaimed singersongwriter, author, musician and monologist. He graduated from Hamilton College with honors and a religious studies degree. While in college; Bill began working with children and released his first album, “Monsters in the Bathroom”, on Round River Records; a label which he co-founded with his wife and partner, Debbie Block. Leading a program in conflict resolution for families and educators and co-founded, with Debbie and others, a community-based adult education platform. As a folk musician in the Pete Seeger, Woodie Guthrie tradition, Harley still lends his voice to social justice, environmental, and political causes. “As a rule, I have a hard time figuring out where I fit,” he says of his multifaceted career, “but I got into this because I’m trying to make the world a better place.” One story and one song at a time. (bio credit: Lynne Heffley) Gaston Malloy: Local entertainer and musician, Gaston Malloy is no stranger to East Providence. Born and raised in Laurinburg, NC Gaston entered the US Navy. After a four year tour with the Navy, and wishing to pursue his dream of attending Tufts University for dentistry, Gaston realized that the tuition price was beyond his reach. Falling back on the one thing he could count on, music, Gaston attended RI College and graduated in 1976 with a BS in instrumental music education. As a music educator, Gaston was been Chairman of the music department at Walpole HS from 1982 – 1985; Riverside Junior High band director (1989-1999); Chairman of the EPHS music department in 2000. In 2001 he became director of bands for Seekonk public schools until his 2006 retirement. He is proud to have achieved recognition for his high school concert bands which have always been honored as one of the top young bands at competition. Since retiring from education, Gaston can be found performing with his own 6-piece group, Malloi.

December 2011 The Reporter

East Providence Couple Wins Washington Trust’s “Millionaire for a Day” Contest

Bank Celebrates New East Providence Branch

WESTERLY, R.I. – When Washington Trust recently opened its new East Providence branch on Taunton Avenue, the Bank wanted to celebrate in a big way, so it held a “Millionaire for a Day” contest. The winner would receive a check for a day’s interest on one million dollars and a “night on the town,” including tickets to a show at Providence Performing Arts Center, a restaurant gift certificate and limousine transportation. There were no special rules or requirements, everyone was eligible to enter—and hundreds of people did—but there was only one winner. Steven and Barbara Pennoyer had heard about Washington Trust’s legendary customer service, and now that a branch was conveniently located nearby, they stopped in to open a new account. They entered the contest, never imagining that they would win. “I was very surprised to learn that we had won,” said Steven. “We’re excited to spend a night receiving the royal treatment.” And, though they have been customers for only a short time, the Pennoyer’s have been impressed with Washington Trust and the service they’ve received. “It’s nice to walk into a bank and be personally greeted,” added Barbara, who grew up in East Providence. “It makes a big difference when you know the bank has your attention, and treats you as their most important customer, not just a number. As soon as you walk in, the staff is immediately available and responsive to our needs. They offer exactly what we look for in a bank.” “Washington Trust has been around for more than 211 years, and was built upon the principles of unparalleled customer service & meeting the needs of the community,” said Paul J. Tavares, Washington Trust Vice President, Branch Manager, East Providence. “Here in East Providence, we are committed to continuing this tradition and becoming the bank of choice for area residents. We have an extremely knowledgeable staff of local professionals who are dedicated to meeting the individual needs of our customers.” Washington Trust’s new East Providence location is a full service branch that offers a wide range of financial services for consumers, businesses and investors; including checking, savings and retirement accounts, as well as mortgage, commercial and small business loans. The branch also features five teller stations, including one with handicap accessibility, and two drive-up teller windows. For 24-hour banking convenience, the new location boasts both walk up and drive-through ATMs, and a secure night deposit facility. To further meet community needs, the branch is staffed by a team of local, bi-lingual professionals. Washington Trust’s East Providence branch is located at 587 Taunton Avenue, and is open Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. You can reach the new branch by calling (401) 383-8800. The Washington Trust Company is a subsidiary of Washington Trust Bancorp, Inc., a $2.9 billion corporation headquartered in Westerly, Rhode Island. Founded in 1800, Washington Trust is the oldest community bank in the nation and is the largest independent bank headquartered in Rhode Island. A state-chartered bank, Washington Trust offers a full range of financial services, including personal banking, commercial and small business banking, as well as wealth management and trust services through its offices located in Rhode Island, southeastern Connecticut and eastern Massachusetts. Washington Trust has 18 branches throughout Rhode Island and Connecticut. The Corporation’s common stock trades on The NASDAQ Global Select® Stock Market under the symbol WASH. Web site address: www.washtrust.com.

Riverside Athlete Competes in Arizona Junior Fall Classic powered by Baseball Factory

Baseball Factory would like to congratulate Nicholas Karalekas of Riverside, RI, on his performance at the 2011 Arizona Junior Fall Classic. Nicholas’s strong showing at the Medford, MA Under Armour Baseball Factory National Tryout in June 2011 earned him a selection to this prestigious event. Nick went 3-8 at this tournament with 3 RBI’s, 1 run scored, 6 stolen bases and 2 walks. He made 12 plays out of 12 attempts in the field with no errors. He played for the Under Armour national team. They had the best record in the tournament going undefeated. There were 58 teams at this tournament. Nick was the only Rhode Island or New England player to be invited to this Tournament. There were former and professional athletes children and younger brothers that attended this tournament. Lenny Dykstra’s son (Former Major League Player) Toby Gerhart’s brother (2009 Heisman trophy Candidate & current Minnesota Viking player) and Danny Espinosa’s brother (current Washington Nationals Player) all played in this tournament. Nick faced Travel Teams with alumni such as Troy Tulowitzski (Colorado Rockies star shortstop), Freddie Freeman (2011 Rookie standout and rookie of the year candidate), and Bryce Harper(1st overall pick of 2010 MLB draft) Jimmy Rollins (Philadelphia Phillies talented veteran). For high school juniors, this tournament offers professional training and play against teams from across the country at a first class facility. This is a great experience to prepare players for showcasing their skills in front of scouts and college coaches. Nicholas represented Baseball Factory at the event in Peoria, AZ against other top 2013 graduates. The national event took place October 19-23, 2011 at the Peoria Sports Complex. Karalekas, a varsity shortstop, is currently a junior at St. Raphael Academy. Baseball Factory would like to wish Nicholas the best of luck in all his future endeavors.

The Reporter December 2011

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Lauren Zarembka Memorial Scholarship Foundation

The Lauren Zarembka Memorial Foundation congratulates this years scholarship recipients and looks forward to once again adopting two families battling pediatric cancer through the Tomorrow Fund at Hasbro Children’s Hospital during the upcoming holiday season. Recipients of this years scholarships: Cristina M. Brito, Emily McManus, Alyssa Rizzini, Miranda Sweetloice. Each recipient received a $2,000.00 scholarship. The Lauren Zarembka Memorial Foundation in conjunction with CSF, annually awards scholarships to students who plan on studying in the disciplines of music/theater, culinary arts and the field of medicine. Lauren Zarembka was an East Providence resident and 2006 graduate of East Providence High School who lost her two and half year battle with a brain tumor at the age of 18 on September 23, 2007. The Lauren Zarembka Memorial Foundation is a non profit organization that provides scholarships for continuing education of graduating and continuing students, as well as assisting families from the Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts area battling pediatric cancer at Hasbro Children’s Hospital. Additionally the foundation supports deserving high school theater programs throughout the state. For more information or how your contribution can assist the foundations mission, please contact the foundation at 158 Beverly Road East Providence RI 02915. As always the foundation thanks the many sponsors and all those that attend the single major fundraiser held in May of each year.

Retired Chorus and Band Director at East Providence High School for 28 years, Mr. John Pavao Is Still Musical

Written by John Pavao and Susan Cady* In 1952, the East Providence Senior High School moved to its present Pawtucket Ave. location. A wing of the school was dedicated for the musical arts. The choral and band program (with marching, concert, and symphonic bands) grew under the leadership of Dr. Stephan Farnum. In the spring of 1959, Miss Virginia Yuro was hired to expand the musical program. She founded the select girls’ music group called the Choraleers and the new Sophomore Girls’ Chorus. In the autumn of 1959, Mr. John Pavao was hired to teach classes in Music Theory and Music Harmony, and to lead the Sophomore Girls’ Chorus and male singers. The existing Boys’ Glee Club became the Crimson Boys’ Choir. Junior and senior high school boys trained for one year, then auditioned or were selected to join the Boys’ Choir. They were a select group of singers who had vocal ranges and sight-reading skills to perform more difficult musical selections. The Boys’ Chorus was formed for sophomore boys. In 1961, a new Mixed Select Chorus sang musical scores with 2, 3, or 4 vocal parts. The Mixed Chorus and Boys’ Chorus wore red robes, while the Boys’ Choir wore blue blazers with Harvard crimson and blue regimental striped ties. Because no music existed at that time for all male singers, Mr. Pavao had to write the songs and rearrange existing musical scores. Arrangements were written by Yale University music director Feeno Heath and Brown University music director Ron Nelson. In the 1960s, the boys enjoyed singing songs by the Beatles. The boys’ musical groups merged to become the Crimson Men’s Chorus.

December 2011 The Reporter The Crimson Men wore gray slacks, dark blue blazers, light blue shirts, with a striped tie that was later replaced with a solid red tie. The Crimson Men won top prizes in New England Music Competitions and Solo Ensemble Festivals for five years. The level of their musical talent often was above expectations and other schools looked to EPHS for inspiration. Mr. Pavao recalls the song, Son My Son, was about an Indian chief lamenting the loss of his son in battle. It contained several difficult lines of tone clusters that the Crimson Men sang very well. The boys sang at school assemblies, holiday concerts, and were invited to sing at community events such at PTA meetings. Like the heart throbbing followers of young Elvis, several high school girls recalled being in the audience at the annual Christmas concerts jumping up and down with excitement when the Crimson Men sang. Sadly, this entertaining all male chorus is no longer part of the EPHS music program. Dr. Stephen Farnum retired in 1969, after 34 years as the supervisor of music for the secondary schools in East Providence. As his co-worker for ten years, Mr. Pavao’s responsibilities changed to be the high school’s full time musical instrument teacher, band director, and director of the Crimson Men. He founded the Double Brass Choir, Stage Band, and Dixie Stage Band. Later a flag corp, color guard, rifle corp, and a baton twirler accompanied the marching band. Mr. Pavao wrote the choreography so the marching band and corps formed award winning, entertaining arrangements on the football field. The marching band and stage band under his direction continued to compete in the All State and New England Music Festival competitions. Like Dr. Farnum’s bands, the EPHS band continued to win numerous awards each year and held the Division title as a Class A band. The band had 80-120 student members during the 28 years that Mr. Pavao taught at EPHS. Yet only one new set of “versatile and economical” uniforms was ever purchased. Using his construction and metal background skills, John repaired students’ instruments saving the city much money. From spare parts and fabricating new pieces, he built the four red sparkle bass drums that are part of the EPHS instrument inventory. During double sessions, EPHS had 2 high school bands, a sophomore and a junior + senior band. They practiced separately each day and then met one night per week to practice together. Mr. Pavao spent 60-70 hours per week working with the band and choral groups. Highlights include the 1976 Bicentennial Program, dedications of the new City Hall, new Martin Junior High School (Mr. Pavao helped design the band and choral facility.), annual senior class plays and musicals such as God Spell, Fiddler on the Roof, My Fair Lady, and the EP Townie Pride celebration and parade. Mr. Pavao organized and maintained a three year rotating schedule for the band to play in Washington, DC, Canada (Quebec, Montreal), and Disney World in Orlando, FL. Students appreciated Mr. Pavao’s musical talents and his dedication to a group of “nutty” teenage students who referred to him as “JP”. A few band students, wearing “JP’s Band” silk screened on their T-shirts, honored Mr. Pavao with a surprise parade and concert at his home one summer day. After 28 years of proudly marching along side of his EPHS band in every parade, Mr. Pavao quietly retired in 1987. He touched the lives of many talented students who become engineers, medical professionals, music teachers, actors, and professional musicians. JP provided opportunity for students to be expressive in music. He encouraged the musical careers of the King Lizard Revival Jass Band. One student who was “Tuba the clown” in the RBB&B Circus is now an actor on national television. With years of experience helping adolescent students to reach their creative potential, it was a natural transition for Mr. Pavao to be an alternative career counselor at Bristol County Agricultural High School in Dighton, MA. For ten years, John served as the Gender Equity Project Director, Recruiter, and the Director of Public Relations.

Mr. Pavao’s hand at directing music continued. He was the interim director for one season for the Cumberland Lincoln Community Chorus. John arranged music and directed the choir for three years at Sacred Heart Church, in East Providence, RI and for five years, at St. Dominic’s Church, in Swansea, MA. For many years, he has participated in ethnic (Portuguese, Italian, Greek) festivals in Providence, New Bedford, and Fall River. John and his wife, Barbara celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary this summer. With Barbara playing the piano or organ, they both can be hired to sing sacred and secular music for weddings, funerals, and special occasions. In October, John sang “Panis angelicus“ at the funeral for the 100 year old wife of his singing teacher. Barbara directed and John sang in this year’s Christmas Cantata at Arnold Mills United Methodist Church. They sang with a hospice choir and at churches in Marion, MA and Fall River, MA. He is the weekly hymn leader at St. Patrick’s Church in Somerset. Musical talent runs in the family. Jay played the up-right bass cello in the RI Philharmonic Orchestra and New Bedford Symphony. David is a baritone singer. Christopher, a guitarist and singer, has written 200 copyrighted songs. John and Barbara enjoy hearing from former students and are proud of their family and former students’ many accomplishments. * Share your memories about being in the EPHS band and chorus with teachers Mr. Pavao, Dr. Farnum, and Miss Yuro with EP historical writer, Susan Cady. nctmk@hotmail.com. Schedule time now to speak with her in EP. Mr. Pavao is not a member of the EPHS Hall of Fame. If you would like to honor him, please obtain a nomination form from the EPHS (401) 435-7806 or ask Susan to email you a copy.

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The Reporter December 2011

How You Can Help Glad We Didn’t Listen! (…to ourselves!)

Almost four years ago, my husband and I were parents to two young children. We were living the life that everyone expects a young, married couple to live. Then, we were introduced to the idea of foster care. Once the idea was in our minds and hearts, we started seeing “foster care” everywhere-billboards, commercials, and real life foster parents. In our hearts, we knew it was meant to be, but that doesn’t mean the concerns didn’t start flying into our heads. Thankfully, despite our concerns, we did indeed become foster parents. The road has not always been easy, but it has been worth it! Maybe you are struggling with the decision right now. The following are the concerns we had and how they were erased: “We don’t know anything about being a foster parent!”-The classes we took gave us more information and support than we thought possible. After the classes were over, we were assigned an amazing social worker that is always just a phone call or visit away. “What will people think?”- We found that it is all in how you present it! When you let people know what a wonderful opportunity you have been given to love and nurture a child for as short or long as they need, mouths close pretty quickly! “My own children will suffer for lack of attention.”-This was our biggest concern, but found the answer to be our greatest joy. We want our children to focus on others as we are most happy when we are helping others. We decided as a family that we were going to share our wonderful and happy home with a child that needed one. Love multiplies! My children have loved each little one that has entered into our home. We have seen them grow as they learn to share and be kind to others. “What about the birthparents?”-Everyone has ideas about what all birthparents must be like. Many assume that these are evil people that don’t love their children. However, they are usually people that truly do love their children, but have problems bigger than themselves. Sometimes they just need some time to get help without having to be a full time parent at the same time. As foster parents we were able to communicate with birth parents through journal writing. Birth parents may not be able to parent at this time, but they still love to hear about their child and know they are being cared for and loved.

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Tap-In Readies For Christmas

Many wonderful and generous donations made the Tap-In Thanksgiving program very successful, assisting more than 450 East Bay families. Enrollment for the Christmas program will begin on Nov. 28, and the agency is hoping to be equally generous despite the difficult economy. Families with children will receive toys and a $20 Shaw’s Gift Card. Only new toys will be accepted during this time, and donations of $15 Gift Cards for older (15-17) children to stores such as Target and Wal-Mart as well as Movie Tickets would be greatly appreciated. Seniors households (60+) will each receive a $25 Target Gift Card and a food package. Distribution will take place on Sat., Dec.18. While no furniture can be accepted during the month, bedding and linens particularly in full, queen and king sizes are always needed and disappear as quickly as they come in. Also, the house wares closet is in need of small appliances such as toaster ovens, mixers, coffee makers, and pots and pans. Donations may be dropped off anytime during regular office hours of 9 to noon, Monday thru Friday. Please call the office at 247-1444 during those hours for any further information. Tap-In is located in the lower level of the Library building on County Road.

Seeking Instruments for Children’s Scholarship Program

We are seeking new and/or used donated instruments such as Guitars, Flutes, Trumpets, Saxophones, Clarinets, Trombones, child size keyboards, child beginners drums, etc. The musical instruments will be provided to underprivileged school aged students in grades 4 through 12 who express an interest in music of their choice, show an aptitude for musical instruction, are needy, and are recognized by their school or organization. The Rhode Island Rhythm & Blues Preservation Society is a 501 3c, tax exempt, Rhode Island state incorporated, tax deductible, non-profit, all volunteer, membership organization. The mission of the society is to preserve and promote the Rhythm and Blues art form through events, activities and public programs. There are four (4) components to the organization: Instruments for Children’s Scholarship Program, Music Projects, Oral History Project, and Public Education Program Please contact Elizabeth Pegg, Program Coordinator at area code 401-438-5886. For additional information about the organization go to our website at www.bluespreservationsociety.org.

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The Reporter December 2011

Happy Holidays! From

Michael DiGioia City Councilman Ward 4 & Family

Michael DiGioia

Paid for by the friends of Michael DiGioia.

Councilman Michael DiGioia, wife Kelly, children Nicholas, Michael II, and Isabella.

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SPORTS 5th Annual Girls Basketball Alumni Game Is Set For Fri, Dec 30th at 6:30

Tip-off for this annual event will be at 6:30 on Friday, December 30th at East Providence High School. This is the 5th consecutive year the Girls Basketball team has held this event, and continues to be one of the team’s major fundraisers throughout the season. The game features former Townie players re-living the “glory days” against this year’s current varsity squad. The game will be three periods, with two officials, a 3 point shooting contest, as well as a raffle to help raise funds for the team to participate in CCRI’s summer league this year. Doors will open at 6:00, and admission to the event is $2.00, with children under 12 being free. Any former players interested in playing will be asked for a $15 donation, and will receive a souvenir t-shirt to remember the evening. If you are a former player and are interested in playing, please contact Coach Solitro @ Msolitro19801@ cox.net<mailto:Msolitro19801@cox.net>, and let him know your t-shirt size. Please come out and attend this wonderful event, and as always thank you in advance for your continued support of Townie Basketball.

East Providence Junior Townies Football & Cheerleading www.epjrtownies.com

Dear Friends, We would like to introduce you to East Providence's new Pop Warner Organization: The East Providence Jr. Townies. Our organization was recently created as a result of a merge between two previously existing Pop Warner organizations, the East Providence Mohawks and the Riverside Raiders. Our primary goal is to unify our city and teach our children the importance of working together towards achieving a common goal, emphasizing the importance of scholastics and teamwork. We serve all the youth of East Providence, ages 7-15. Our first season has been nothing less than AWESOME! We’ve enjoyed camaraderie, winning teams, high cheer competition scores, and tremendous support for our Challenger Cheerleading Squad. Currently, our Junior PeeWee & Junior Midget Football teams are two wins away

December 2011 The Reporter

Thanksgiving Day Football Game

UPDATE

Photos by Bob Rodericks

from competing for a National Championship in Florida. The average cost per participant is projected to be $1500.00. The East Providence Jr Townies Youth Football and Cheerleading organization is requesting your support by assisting with fundraising efforts that will allow us to send teams from our organization to compete for a National Championship in Florida, should they qualify. What an accomplishment it is to have two teams come this far! This is a true testament to what can happen when ALL of East Providence comes together as one! We are a 501(c)(3) non profit organization, therefore donations are tax deductible. Please know that any and all contributions will be shared among those who qualify to compete at Nationals. If no travel funds are needed this year they will stay in the fund to be used for future National Travel. If you are able to donate funds we would be very appreciative. It is our hope that you are able to provide financial support to help us ensure that all participants are able to enjoy the National games, should they qualify. Please contact any board member with comments or questions. Thank you very much for your consideration! Sincerely and with Townie Pride, Kevin Dailey – President president@epjrtownies.com Scott Winter - 1st Vice President vicepresident@epjrtownies.com Kevin Gaugler – 2nd Vice President vicepresident@epjrtownies.com Tony de Simas – Football Commissioner tonydesimas@yahoo.com Andrea Toddings – Cheerleading Coordinator cheercoordinator@epjrtownies.com Tammy Estrella – Secretary secretary@epjrtownies.com Elizabeth Costa – Treasurer treasurer@epjrtownies.com Shaun Rodrigues – Scholastic Coordinator srodsr@yahoo.com Donna Dailey – Fundraising Coordinator fundraisingcoordinator@epjrtownies.com Donna Hassell – Fundraising Coordinator fundraisingcoordinator@epjrtownies.com

Supt Ed Daft Principal Janet Sheehan Pierce Mgr Joe Medeiros

2012 Vocation Fair

Pamela McNulty Reis, GRI Thinking of Buying or Selling

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The Reporter December 2011

As this year ends and a new one begins...

We wish you Peace, Prosperity, Health and Happiness this Holiday Season and throughout the coming year! Winslow Gardens and Linn Health Care Center United Methodist Elder Care Communities Celebrating our Ruby Anniversary and 40 Years of Services in the East Bay Community.

401-438-4456 Website: www.umeldercareri.org

December 2011 The Reporter

LEARN TO SKATE + PLAY HOCKEY Greater Providence Youth Hockey • 2011-2012 Season 8 and under • Instructional and House League For more information visit www.gpyha.org

Chrissy Rossi, Bruce Rogers & his Nephrews at the Game

Who Says You Can’t Have It All?

Coach Gorham & his Twin Brother

Opening doors and minds Inspiring lives of engaged citizenship Challenging students to stand out while fitting in Parents and students are invited to attend classes and experience PCD’s learning environment firsthand.

The Reporter December 2011

SCHOOL NEWS Myron J. Francis Elementary School “Hat & Mitten Drive”

Myron J. Francis Elementary School will be holding a “Hat & Mitten Drive” from 12/9/11 through 12/16/11. Items will be collected in the school foyer through the front entrance of the building. Items needed include new hats, mittens & gloves in all sizes for schoolaged boys and girls. Myron J. Francis School is located at 64 Bourne Avenue in Rumford, RI. The items will be donated to the Rhode Island Donation Exchange Program. RIDEP will pass on these items to qualified individuals and families. The families have been referred to their program by a member network of more than 85 social service agencies including homeless and domestic violence centers and other various community centers. Any contributions you are able to make will be greatly appreciated. For more information, please contact president@francispto.com Thank you for your support!

Riverside Middle School Robotics Team Visits Johnson and Wales University’s Cusinart Culinary Campus

On Tuesday, November 15, 2011 seventeen 8th Grade students from Riverside Middle School attended a field trip to the Johnson and Wales University’s Cusinart Culinary Campus in Providence, RI. The students represent two groups of First LEGO League Robotics Teams that the Riverside Middle School will send to compete at the First LEGO League Championship event held on the campus of Roger Williams University, Bristol, RI on Saturday, January 14, 2012. The research project theme for the First LEGO League Championships is called “Food Factor” and it is based on developing creative ideas to help ensure that the food we eat is safe. The Riverside Middle School teams are hard at work developing their projects on the topic of food safety. The robotics team students explored several culinary studies departments on a tour led by two Johnson and Wales University culinary student interns. Many of the classrooms the students toured were designed with big picture windows that allowed the audience to see the whole classroom in action. We are very grateful to Johnson and Wales University for making special arrangements to provide the tour. We would like to especially thank, Professor John Gounaris, James Richard, Admissions and our tour guides Taylor Levesque and Elise Armour. Two parent chaperons helped make our trip a great success, Bob Guarino and George Leonardo. We are also appreciate the support of our Principal, Stephen Prew.

The Riverside Robotics Team starting lineup for this year includes: Betsy Abrahmson, Angela Leonardo, Victoria Lamarre, Tatyana Rodrigues, Taylor Silva, Rachel Pimentel, Hailee Ferreira, Emma Anderson, Matthew D’Amico, Mohamad Aldine, Seth Botelho, Corey Motta, Brett Tierney, Nick Guarino, Ethan Jones, Patrick Leite, Ethan Plouffe Coach: John Marsula, Riverside Middle School Robotics Teacher

December 2011 The Reporter

Fall Feinstein Food Drive A Huge Success!

Orlo Avenue Elementary School holds a yearly food drive in November to benefit two local food pantries. This year students, staff, and families collected 1,652 items in just 4 days! We are so proud to help the Bread of Life Food Pantry and East Bay Community Action Program of East Providence. Students graphed item collection, wrote and solved math word problems, learned how to write friendly letters asking for support, and how to create informational posters. We are so proud of our Orlo Family! We would also like to take this opportunity to thank the community for their voting support during our playground grant competition. We are currently in 6th place but have a long way to go. You can still vote daily by texting clorox4041 to 44144 or vote online at www.powerabightfuture.com. Have a great holiday season!

ORlO AVE ELEMENTARY SCHOOl NEEDS YOUR HELP!!!

Please help Orlo Avenue Elementary School in East Providence win $50,000 from Clorox to build a playground for the school. All you have to do is text the phrase CLOROX4041 to 44144 daily until December 9th. You can also visit www.Powerabrightfuture.com and register to vote there! If you do both, that's 2 VOTES A DAY PER PERSON!

Do it for the kids and community! They deserve more than asphalt to play on! TEXT CLOROX4041 to 44144 or visit www.Powerabrightfuture.com Thank you for your support!

See what our patient's had to say about Sport & Spine:

Orlo Avenue Students Write to Veterans

This year students in Miss Lodge’s second grade class at Orlo Avenue Elementary School in East Providence wrote letters to Veterans at the Rhode Island Veterans Home in Bristol Rhode Island. Students learned about Veterans Day in school and decided to write the letters of thanks. We are so proud of all of our Veterans and thank them for their service! Happy Veterans Day.

"When I injured my back in September, I had severe pain in my back which radiated down my leg and caused me to fall. My doctor wanted me to have physical therapy and a friend of mine recommended Sport & Spine. In the beginning, I couldn't do much because of the pain, but the therapists did a lot of hands-on techniques which allowed me to improve my mobility. The therapists discussed my care and injury at length and worked with my doctor to discuss the benefits of changing some of my medications. The therapy consisted of hands-on work with the addition of exercises, body mechanics and work activities as I was able to tolerate them. Having physical therapy at Sport & Spine has been a great experience. The therapists as well as the receptionist always made me feel like they truly care about how I'm doing. Sport & Spine has gone above and beyond my expectations!"

- Leslie Cunha

250 Wampanoag Trail, East Providence RI 401-383-9290 • www.sportandspinept.com Blue Cross, Medicare, UHP & most Insurance accepted

The Reporter December 2011

Bay View Academy Holds 1st “Women In Science And Engineering” Day East Providence, RI – Traditionally, women have been underrepresented in the sciences. However, Bay View Academy is committed to exposing and advancing young women in the field of science. On Saturday, November 19, 2011, Bay View hosted its first

annual Women in Science & Engineering Conference sponsored by Hasbro, Inc., Raytheon and Worcester Polytechnic Institute. The conference, modeled after the very successful Women In Science Conference held at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, offered 200 sixth, seventh and eighth girls from Rhode Island and nearby Massachusetts area schools an opportunity to look at science, technology, engineering, medicine and mathematics (STEM) in a fun, exciting and educational way. The idea to host the conference was brought to Bay View by alumna, Kathy Notarianni, Department Head of Fire Protection Engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute. After graduating from Bay View, Kathy pursued her interest in science and received a B.S. in Chemical Engineering, M.S. in Fire Protection Engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute and an M.S. and Ph.D. in Engineering and Public Policy at Carnegie Mellon University. Kathy has planned and hosted four annual Women in Science Conferences for girls in the Worcester area. Her desire to see girls excel in science and her love of her alma mater brought her back to Bay View where she could again encourage girls and young women to enjoy hands-on experiments and activities while meeting women who are leaders in the STEM arena. Accomplished Bay View alumnae and faculty presented 20 60-minute workshops on the Bay View campus from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Girls were invited to attend the no-cost conference via their school science teachers and were able to choose the workshops they wished to attend. Hands-on workshops were the backbone of this conference, as they provided an opportunity for girls to learn from professionals. Small groups of girls engaged in three fun, informative workshops involving activities such as analyzing a DNA sample collected from a fictitious crime scene, using real-life medical tools to dissect a chickenwing and determining how fire ignites, Area Students Visit Bay View for WISE Conference burns, and is extinguished. The goal of these workshops was to show the girls that math and science can be fun with the hope that they may then become more curious about STEM careers and see that a career •We have 4x4 vehicles to •We make evening in the sciences is achievable. It is the handsappointments to clean assure prompt service on versus lecturing technique that produces boilers so customers do in bad weather positive, often life changing results. not lose time out of work Our new website will soon include a •Our customers are local •24 hours, 7 days a week Women in Science & Engineering portal to our office not spread out emergency service showcasing Bay View alumnae who have all over RI & MA chosen careers in the STEM industries. •Service contracts •We do not sell oil so that Young girls can learn about accomplished starting at $140.00 our customers can buy oil Bay View alumnae and contact them re(which includes cleaning) at the best price garding their career choices and paths to •Burner cleanings working in the STEM arena. •We return all our calls only $75.00 Offering the Women In Science Workshop afforded girls in Grades 6, 7 and 8 If your We are from area schools all over Rhode Island tired of paying not just family and Southeastern Massachusetts the ophigh oil prices operated but family portunity to experience science in a way just to get an owned & offer honest, they have not before and meet and learn expensive contract reliable, affordable from accomplished, successful women in come join service to our the fields of science.

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December 2011 The Reporter

Scouting Around Town

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Troop 55 Riverside

Boy Scouts from Troop 55 Riverside recently completed their monthly campout at Camp Cachalot in Plymouth, MA. Scouts worked on rank requirements and assisted the Camp Ranger in working on a community service project for the camp by helping build a retaining wall near one of the camp’s lower campsites. Scouts and leaders are pictured with the new troop trailer which was built from scratch as a troop project. Great job scouts.

CJS / Statewide Appliance Repair

$39.95

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Girl Scout Leaders Needed

Volunteering your time and energy as a Girl Scout Leader is a very rewarding experience for you and the young girls and women that you serve. Not only do you offer opportunities to the girls that they might not otherwise have, you help them develop positive self esteem, become well-rounded individuals, become self sufficient, and model leadership and initiative……all while having fun and building wonderful memories. East Providence Girl Scouts currently need leaders for girls who are on a “waiting list”. If you would like to make new friends, learn new skills, and experience the joy of a child’s admiration, please call Cindy at (401) 433-0413 to inquire about being a Girl Scout leader. Training is available and there are other East Providence Girl Scout Leaders who will provide support.

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The Reporter December 2011

Troop 88 Rumford

On November 5th, Troop 88 Rumford participated in the 24th annual “Scouting For Food” food drive. Scouts collected donations of non-perishable food items and brought them to the EP Fire Department headquarters on Broadway in East Providence where they spent hours boxing the gathered goods along with members of the Rhode Island National Guard. Once again a great success, Troop 88 was overwhelmed by the generosity of our friends and neighbors in East Providence who generated 133 boxes of food, just one contribution to the 300,000lbs collected by The Narragansett Council. The willingness to help each other in times of need, even when most of us are struggling also, addresses one of Boy Scouts’ core values, “Do A Good Turn Daily.” To all of the East Providence residents, who donated to this event, thank you from Troop 88, Rumford. We couldn’t have done it without you.

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The Reporter December 2011

East Providence East Providence Library Locations www.eastprovidencelibrary.org Weaver Memorial Library 41 Grove Avenue, East Providence, RI 401-434-2453 Monday - Thursday 9-8; Friday & Saturday 9-5 Fuller Branch Library 260 Dover Avenue, East Providence, RI 401-434-1136 Monday & Wednesday 10-6; Friday 10-5 Riverside Branch Library 475 Bullocks Point Avenue, Riverside, RI 401-433-4877 Monday – Thursday 10-8; Friday & Saturday 10-5 © Disney

Rumford Branch Library 1392 Pawtucket Avenue, Rumford, RI 401-434-8559 Tuesday & Thursday 10-6; Saturday 10-5

December Activities for Children @ East Providence Public Libraries Santa Visit

Thursday, December 8, 2:00-5:00 p.m. @ Weaver for all ages. Bring your camera to take photos with Santa Claus. Kids can also decorate holiday cookies.

Bilingual (Portuguese/English) Family Storytime

Saturdays (once a month), 2:30-3:00 @Weaver for all ages December 17 Stories and songs

Opening Night Tickets $14!*

DEC. 28 – JAN. 1 Wed.

Thu.

Fri.

Sat.

Sun.

DEC. 28

DEC. 29 11:00 AM 3:00 PM

DEC. 30

DEC. 31 11:00 AM 3:00 PM

JAN. 1

1:00 PM 7:00 PM*

1:00 PM 5:00 PM

1:00 PM 4:30 PM

*Excludes Front Row, Rinkside and VIP seats. No double discounts. Additional fees may apply.

Buy tickets at

www.disneyonice.com,

Retail Locations, Dunkin’ Donuts Center Box Office or call 1-800-745-3000

184341

Regular Ticket Prices: $15 • $20 • $40 VIP • $60 Rinkside • $70 Front Row Additional fees may apply.

“Stories On The Spectrum”

Stories and songs for children ages 3-8 who have developmental disorders on the autistic spectrum and their families. Saturdays (once a month), 11:00-11:30am @ Weaver December 3

Crafts – all ages

Tuesday, December 6, 3:00-5:00 p.m. - Holiday Placemats @Rumford Monday, December 12, 3:00-5:00 - Rudolph Treat Cup @ Fuller Thursday, December 15, 3:45-4:45 - Reindeer Ornament @Riverside Tuesday, December 20, 3:00–5:00 p.m. – Holiday Ornaments & Cards @ Rumford

Stamp Club @ Weaver

Saturdays, 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. Dec. 3, Dec. 17 The kids will build a US stamp collection, and try some

December 2011 The Reporter

Public Libraries

Happy HOLIDAYS!

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topical stamp collecting. Other activities include First Day Covers, event covers, and even Polar Philately! Children will also get the chance to build stamp exhibits and put them on display at the RI Philatelic Society’s annual stamp show. This club is supported by the RI Philatelic Society. Society members mentor & instruct new collectors on how to collect, display, and exhibit stamps and postal history. Stamps & materials are provided by donations from members and friends.

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Video Games @ Weaver

Tuesday, December 27, 1:30-3:00, grades 1 & up Wii and PlayStation games - Just Dance, Michael Jackson Experience, Guitar Hero, and more.

(401) 438-1994 (401) 434-4774

Great Service • Great Quality

Merry Christmas to all! from

Felt Bear Craft @ Riverside

Helio Melo & Family

Snowman Mobile Craft @ Fuller

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Wednesday, December 28, 11:00-12:00, all ages

Wednesday, December 28, 3:00-5:00, all ages

BINGO for prizes @ Weaver

Wednesday, December 28, 6:30-7:30, all ages

Curious George Visit @ Weaver

Thursday, December 29, 10:00-11:00, all ages Come and meet Curious George and listen to story about him. Bring your camera if you’d like to take pictures with Curious George.

Read-A-Thon @Rumford

Thursday, December 29, 1:00-4:00, all ages Come and read quietly in the library. Earn a prize for each 20 minute period of reading. For more information, contact the location where the activity is being held, or the main Youth Services Department at 434-2453.

Creating Low-Stress Holidays

The Riverside Branch Library will offer the presentation “Creating Low-stress Holidays” on Thursday, December 8th from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. One way to reduce holiday stress is to know what you most want and need from this time of year. Once you know what you want, making decisions is so much easier. Join Joanna Meriwether, a holistic health educator, as she helps you explore what is most meaningful for you during the holidays and then get these things into your schedule. You will leave with tools and a workbook that will support you in having happier and healthier holidays this year. This program is free and open to all, no registration required. For more information call Meredith 434-2453.

December Teen Programs @ East Providence Public Libraries

(Programs are for grades 6 and up unless otherwise noted.) Open Mic Cafe @ Weaver Sing a song, recite a poem, play a tune. The mic is yours! Thursday, Dec. 1, 6:30 p.m.

Paid for by the friends of Helio Melo

The Reporter December 2011

Cookies And Wii! @ Weaver

Drop in to decorate cookies (yum!) and enjoy Wii games. Thursday, Dec. 29, 2-4 p.m.

Movie And Snacks! @ Riverside

Thursday, Dec. 29, 6-8 p.m. Permission slip required! Available @ any EP Library location.

Teen Mondays @ Riverside

Laptops, music, Wii, games. After school on Mondays.

Teen Thursdays @ Weaver

Laptops, music, Wii, Minute-To-Win-It and other games, crafts. After school on Thursdays.

Weaver Library December 2011 and Early January 2012 Programs The Very Merry Dickens Carolers in Concert Monday, December 5th at 7:00 p.m.

Enjoy a heartwarming evening with Victorian-costumed carolers singing in four-part a cappella harmony before the season becomes too hectic. Specializing in holiday entertainment, and celebrating their 8th season, the Very Merry Dickens Carolers bring the magical sounds of Christmas to the community.

Eat for Energy at the Weaver Library Monday, January 9th, 2012 at 7:00 p.m.

What would your life be like with an abundance of energy and vitality? There are many things that drain us from day to day, but the foods we eat have a tremendous impact on our energy levels. What foods are best to eat to increase your energy, make you feel younger and enable you to live a fuller, richer life? What foods create an energy debt? Workshop presenter, Margaret Slepkow, M. Ed Harvard University and Holistic Health Coach, explores the impact of diet on vitality and provides simple suggestions to increase your energy levels. Library programs are free and open to all. Questions? Contact Librarian Joyce May at 434-2453 or eplibraryjoyce@yahoo.com.

Mystical, Magical Owls

Evening Owl Prowls held at Wildlife Refuges Across the State.

Here in New England several species of native owls can be found – ranging from the tiny northern saw-whet owl to the large great horned owl, whose strength is unsurpassed in the owl world. They are beautiful and amazing creatures, with mystical connections to many cultures. The Audubon Society of Rhode Island encourages you to learn more about these amazing creatures of the night. Toss out the false myths and learn about their true feats and talents. Head out on the frosty evening trails with an Audubon guide for an Owl Prowl, offered at Audubon Wildlife Refuges across the state, or enjoy a lecture on owls on December 7, 2011. Details are provided below. These are some of Audubon’s most popular programs; registration is required by calling (401) 949-5454 ext. 3041 or email programs@asri.org.

Owl Prowl at Fort Refuge

Bundle up and join us for a night hike on the Fort Wildlife Refuge in search of owls. We will call for different species of owls as we travel through mixed and pine woods. While we never know if we’ll actually get to hear or see an owl, participants will be sure to learn a lot and have a great night hike. Wear warm socks and shoes or boots and dress warmly. Bring a flashlight. Hike will be canceled in the event of inclement weather or icy trails. Fort Nature Refuge, (Rt. 5), 1443 Providence Pike, North Smithfield, RI; November 30, 2011; 7:00-9:00 pm; Program Fee: $8/member, $12/non-member; Ages: 10+. Course Number: 154333-458.

Owls of New England Lecture

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Did you know there are several species of owls that live here in New England? Some might live right near your back yard! We’ll start out with a presentation on our native owls, hear their calls and some fun anecdotes and stories, and meet a live owl. Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge, 12 Sanderson Road, Smithfield, RI; December 7, 2011; 6:30-8:00 pm; Program Fee: $8/member, $12/non-member; Ages: 10+. Course Number: 114333-460

Owl Prowl at Fisherville Brook

Head out on the trails for an evening of fun - learning about the owls of Rhode Island. Start the evening with a presentation on these amazing creatures and visit with one of Audubon’s live owls. Then walk the evening trails in search of these intriguing birds in their natural setting. Meet in the Nature Center. Dress warmly and

December 2011 The Reporter bring a flashlight. Fisherville Brook Wildlife Refuge, 99 Pardon Joslin Road, Exeter, RI; December 9, 2011 7:00-9:00 pm; Program Fee: $8/member adult, $4/member child; $12/non-member adult, $6/non-member child; Ages: 6+. Course Number: 134333-202.

Owl Prowl at Kimball

Start out with an informative and entertaining talk by Kimball naturalist Bob Kenney as he introduces the owls that could be encountered in Rhode Island. We’ll also try to arrange a close-up look at one of our captive owls. Then head out along the refuge trails, looking and listening for these amazing birds. Dress for walking outdoors on a cold December night, and bring a flashlight. Kimball Wildlife Refuge, 180 Sanctuary Road, Charlestown, RI; December 10, 2011; 7:30-9:30 pm; Program Fee: $8/member adult, $4/member child; $10/non-member adult, $5/non-member child; Ages: 6+. Course Number: 044166-65.

Junior Bird Club Wednesday, 12/7; 6-7PM

Join us for indoor/outdoor hands-on, birding activities and projects for children of all ages. FREE. Meet at the Allens Neck Friends Meeting House at 739 Horseneck Road.

Holidays, Naturally. Sunday, 12/19; 1-3PM

Participants of all ages are invited to join us as we create gifts and holiday decorations using natural items. Start off with a hike in search of natural supplies for your project. Every creation will be unique! $10 MAS member, $12 non-member. Enrollment limited to 15. Preregistration is required.

Christmas Bird Count

7.5 mile radius circles are set up around the world and as many birders as possible comb the circle areas and count/classify as many birds as they can! You can invest as much time and mileage as you wish in our circle. All participants are invited for the Paskamansett Bird Club’s annual pot-luck that evening. FREE for all. Contact Lauren (508) 636-2437 for details.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

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Owling at Fisherville Brook

In a small group setting, spend time with one of Audubon’s live owls and review what makes these creatures so special. Then head out on the trail in search of these wild birds. Fisherville is home to Barred Owls, Great Horned Owls and Saw-whet Owls. Pre-registration is a must; this program is limited to 12 participants. Adults only. Fisherville Brook Wildlife Refuge, 99 Pardon Joslin Road, Exeter, RI; January 20, 2012; 7:00-9:00 pm; Program Fee: $8/member, $12/ non-member; Ages: Adult. Course Number: 134333-206.

Holiday Photo Card Workshop Saturday 12/3; 9AM

Make 2011 the year your holiday cards are their most gorgeous and original…by joining us for a photo walk and card workshop. Naturalist and photographer Myer Bornstein will help you shoot, choose and print your best shot and we’ll also include a box of your own card frames! Enrollment limited to 8. Preregistration is required. $10 MAS members; $12 non-members.

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The Reporter December 2011

Are You Nuts For Nutcracker? Festival Ballet Providence Presents the 34th Annual Production of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker

The Nutcracker Date: December 9-11, 2011 Time: Friday at 8:00 P.M. Saturday at 2:00 and 7:00 P.M. Sunday at 1:30 P.M. Place: Providence Performing Arts Center, 222 Weybossett Street, Providence, RI Cost: $23 - $98, price includes $3.00 Theater Restoration Fee Discounts for Groups, children and seniors Program: Full-length performance of The Nutcracker. Duration: 2 hours Information: Visit www.festivalballetprovidence.org; for tickets contact 401.421.ARTS (2787) or visit www.ppacri.org Providence, RI (November 3, 2011) – Festival Ballet Providence celebrates the holidays and its 34th Anniversary Season with its annual holiday favorite, The Nutcracker. Four performances will take place in the opulent Providence Performing Arts Center December 9 to 11, 2011; Friday at 8:00 pm; Saturday at 2:00 and 7:00 pm; and Sunday at 1:30. Ticket sales are brisk for this magical production by the state’s premiere ballet company that brings an audience of over 12,000 to downtown Providence. To celebrate this year’s tagline, “Nuts for Nutcracker,” surprise guest appearances by dancers from the ballet and The Nutcracker, himself, will take place in toy stores and various locations throughout the area. Announcements can be heard on local media. The Nutcracker brings the magic of the holidays to the stage with a production noted in Motif Magazine as “…a true Christmas gift not to be missed….” and described by Channing Gray in the Providence Journal as “good story telling...some thrilling dancing...a solid corps...lavish production... huge cast... a tight show that moves right along with no slow spots... a classy show.” This beloved holiday tale of a gift of a Nutcracker doll given to Clara by her Uncle Drosselmeyer leads the young girl from a grand Christmas party, complete with puppet theater, dancing dolls and a tree that grows 25 feet in height, to a midnight battle of life-size toy soldiers vs. giant mice lead by the Mouse Queen. Clara survives the ordeal, only to find that her protector, a life-sized Nutcracker soldier, has been transformed into a handsome human prince. He leads her through a dozen dancing snowflakes to the luscious Kingdom of Sweets, where the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier introduce the couple to brightly costumed dancers from round the world. They celebrate the victory over the Mouse Queen with cultural dances from around the world, culminating in a grand finale. Aside from heralding the holiday season for thousands of families, a visit to The Nutcracker is often the first eye-opening experience of new audiences, especially young

children, to professional dance. Each year thousands of youth are treated to this magical experience through school day “Discover Dance” performances of this imaginative and heartwarming production. The production’s “Snow” Scene at the end of Act I is elegantly enhanced with the help of Swarovski. The stage features dozens of glimmering Swarovski crystal snowflakes, a forest of snow-clad trees and dancers in sparkling white cut stone-studded costumes. Aside from the international troupe of 25 professional dancers, the production also features over 125 talented locally auditioned dancers as young as 7 years old, dancing the roles of Angels, Party Children, Candy Dolls, Mice, Soldiers and Russian dancers. These young regional performers were chosen from auditions held in September of this year, and represent not only the Festival Ballet School, but also dozens of dance schools from across the region. The central role of Clara will be performed by Festival Ballet Providence School students, 17-year-old Jesse Chase-Lubitz and 14-year-old Jane Schiavone (both of Providence). Artistic Director Mihailo Djuric notes, “Casting this pivotal role is always a tough decision. I consider which young dancer is up to the challenge, and how she will use the role to grow artistically and technically. And stage presence, I never forget that. I can’t wait to see what the young dancers will bring to the role.” This production will see the return of Vilia Putrius and Mindaugas Bauzys as Sugar Plum Fairy (“exquisite, displaying mindboggling control and elegance” - ProJo 2010) and Her Cavalier, and Walter Gutierrez (series of explosive leaps during the Russian number, “Trepak.” He’s an amazing athlete, and the crowd loved him” - ProJo 2010.) This year also mark’s return of Archie, the company’s Nutcracker mascot, who celebrated his 100th Nutcracker performance last season. Djuric notes Archie may have a sister join him in this year’s production. We’ll have to wait and see! Nutcracker Tickets: Performances take place at the Providence Performing Arts Center, 220 Weybosset Street, in Providence, RI. Tickets priced from $23.00 to $98.00 are available by contacting the PPAC Box Office at 401.421-ARTS (2787) or by visiting www. ppacri.com. Group discounts are available by calling PPAC at 401.421.2997. Sponsors. The 2011 production of Festival Ballet Providence’s production of The Nutcracker is made possible with support from the Rhode Island State Council on the Arts. The Festival Ballet Providence and the Festival Ballet Providence Center for Dance Education are together a not-for-profit arts organization whose EIN is 05-0377245 and whose Rhode Island Corporate ID number is ND-27-137.

Considering Adoption?

Adoption Options Offers Free Informational Meetings Providence, November 14, 2011 – Adoption Options is holding a free informational session those considering adoption and are interested in hearing about available options. Licensed adoption workers will be available to provide information and answer questions. In Rhode Island, the next meeting is scheduled from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at 959 North Main St. in Providence on December 15, 2011. Adoption Options, a non-sectarian, non-profit, comprehensive adoption program of Jewish Family Service works with prospective adoptive parents, birth parents and people who have been adopted. The agency is licensed in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, with offices in Rehoboth and Providence. The agency’s work with all members of the adoption triad is focused on helping individuals to understand their options and make the most informed choices for their future. For more information, please contact Peg Boyle at 401-331-5437 or visit www.AdoptionOptions.org.

December 2011 The Reporter

East Providence Senior Center News Highlights Blood Pressure Schedule 10:30 a.m. Atria Bay Spring - Monday, Dec. 5th Waterview Villa - Wednesday, Dec. 14th Evergreen NH - Thursday, Dec. 15th Hattie Ide Chaffee - Tuesday, Dec. 27th Medicare Open Enrollment Event at the East Providence Senior Center Medicare’s Open Enrollment ends December 7th People with Medicare have the opportunity to change their Medicare health and drug coverage options. The changes made will take effect on January 1, 2012. East Providence Senior Center is hosting an Open Enrollment Event Friday, December 2nd from 9a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information and to make an appointment please call 435-7876

Winter Fest Winter Scape Village

Illumination of an outdoor village will be displayed at the senior center from December 3rd through January 3rd

Wii Bowling

Tuesday 10:15 - 11:45 Come join our very enthusiastic Wii Bowling Group every Tuesday. Using our large screen TV our participants have a great time bowling. If you have never tried this the group will teach you and you’re sure to pick it up quickly.

PCD Singers and Bell Ringers.

Tuesday, December 13th 10:30 Come and enjoy this annual event with children from Providence Country Day School

PCD holiday gift bags

The Providence Country Day School kids will also be here on Thursday, Decem-

ber 15th to donate gift bags to our members Reminder: We will be collecting nonperishable food items for our food pantry during the month of December. We thank you in advance. Looking for Resources? Are you looking for information regarding statewide senior housing, assisted living facilities, adult day centers or local nursing facilities? Please see Ellen Frazier in the Administration Office for more information or call 435-7873. Other resources available are Living Will documents, Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare and more. 610 Waterman Avenue East Providence, RI 02914 Phone 401-435-7800 Dining Room 401- 435-7872 Fax 401-435-7803

Vigorous Mind Brain Wellness

At the end of July the Vigorous Mind Program will be up-graded to give our members more. This will require all members to have a new user name and password as well as a short review of the new system. Please come to the Administration Office to schedule a short training. You will like the new program. Vigorous Mind is a brain wellness program. It is a scientifically based software product offering users a broad brain exercise program that trains multiple cognitive functions. The program includes a set of brain exercises that trains attention, memory, processing speed, language, number skills, multi-tasking, reasoning, hand-eye coordination as well as other critically important brain skills. The system adjusts the level of difficulty to your level and lets you view your results and progress over time. Computers are available daily at the center.

Computer Assistance

Monday, December 19th (3rd Monday this month) 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

On the last Monday of every month, two students from MTTI career training school will assist any member with computer questions. These volunteers will try to resolve your computer problems, and help you with a computer course you may be taking. The students will be in the computer lab.

610 Waterman Avenue, East Providence, RI 02914 Phone 435-7800 Dining Room 435-7872 Fax 435-7803

Weekly/Monthly Programs Monday 9:00 a.m. Intermediate Yoga 10:30 a.m. Beginners Yoga 10:30 a.m. Caregivers Support Group (4th Mon) 1:00 p.m. Pokeno 1:00 p.m. Book Club 2:00 p.m. Ballroom Dancing Tuesday 8:15 a.m. Cards (Cockroach) 9:30 a.m. Aerobics Exercise 9:30 a.m. Watercolor Class 9:30 a.m. Bocce Ball 10:30 a.m. Weight Maintenance (2nd Tues) 11:00 a.m. Tai Chi 1:00 p.m. Drawing Class 1:00 a.m. Cribbage 1:25 p.m. BINGO 1:30 p.m. Stroke Club (1st Tues) Wednesday 8:30 a.m. East Side Lab (1st Wed) 9:00 a.m. Intermediate Yoga 9:00 a.m. Manicurist/Alterations 10:00 a.m. Scrabble 10:45 a.m. PACE 1:30 p.m. Nutrition Weight Loss Class Thursday 9:00 a.m. Tax Preparation (Feb. & March) 9:30 a.m. Aerobics Exercise 10:15 a.m. Nutrition Weight Loss 1:00 p.m. Bridge 1:00 p.m. Craft Class 1:30 p.m. Diabetes Support Group (2nd & 4th Thurs) Friday 9:00 a.m. Billiards League 9:30 a.m. Chair Yoga 10:00 a.m. Scrabble 10:45 a.m. PACE 11:00 a.m. Meditation Class 12:45 p.m. In-Sight Support Group (4th Fri) 1:20 p.m. Hi Lo Jack League Daily Lunch Noon Library 8 a.m. — 4 p.m. Coffee Hour 2:15 p.m. Fitness Center 8 a.m. — 4 a.m.

The Reporter December 2011

Senior Center Healthy Aging

Nutrition Weight Management continues. Our next session begins in January 2012. Classes are held on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Contact the Health Office at 435-7870 to pre-register for the next session. Get healthy for the New Year! Sorry, these classes are not drop-in, you must pre-register. Our new program continues: Therapeutic Touch with Eleanor Leighton RN. Ms. Leighton performed this well researched technique for members of our nutritionweight management classes and was very well received. This month, on Thursdays, Ms. Leighton will be here to provide members a 15 minute, individual treatment and answer questions-all for only a $2.00 charge. Please contact the Health Office at 435-7870 for your private appointment. We have Registered Dieticians available for appointments in the health office. They will counsel you, in private, about your dietary needs and insurance usually covers these visits. They are also certified diabetes educators. To schedule a visit, stop by the health office or call us at 435-7870. Our own Ann Marie Sabula RD and Ellen Frazier lead a weekly meditation group at the senior center each Friday at 11 a.m. Many studies document the health benefits of meditation and this program is free and open to all members. Beginners welcome! Atria Bay Spring Village is taking blood pressures. Please say hello to Judy Moorehead RN on Monday, December 5 from 10:30 to 11:30 in the dining room. She will take your blood pressure and answer any questions about their lovely facility. East Side Clinical Lab draws blood work here once per month. The date for this month is: Wednesday December 7, 8:30-11:30. There is no pre-registration, just come in with the lab slip from your doctor.

Please utilize this service. Diabetes Support Group now meets twice monthly! Thursday, December 8 and 22 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. If you have diabetes, please attend this wonderful, supportive group. All with diabetes and their loved ones are welcome! Due to the Christmas holiday and travel, caregiver’s Support Group will be meeting the second Monday of this month: Monday, December 12 at 10:30 a.m. This is a change from our yearly listing! If you are caring for a loved one and could use information or support, this group is for you. Please join us. No pre-registration necessary. The East Bay Center clinical social worker, Kathleen Beltramello LICSW, is assisting our seniors with any of their social service needs. The dates this month are: December 13 and 27 from 9 a.m. to12 noon. Do you have questions? Do you wish to talk with someone confidentially? Please contact us for an appointment at 435-7870. Nutrition/Weight Loss Maintenance group will be meeting Tuesday December 13 at 10:30 am. (Or later as we may be taking a road trip! Members contact Nurse Maureen for details). Waterview Villa’s, Crystal Jarbeau will be taking blood pressures on Wednesday, December 14 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the dining room. Come sit and chat with her and discuss what services Waterview Villa has for you. Evergreen House Health Center will be taking blood pressure readings on Thursday, December 15 from 10:30 to 11:30 am in the dining room. Stop by to have your blood pressure taken and to speak with lovely Ivone Joia about this wonderful facility. Hattie Ide Chaffee Home will be performing blood pressure checks Tuesday, December 27 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the seminar room. April Paniccia, clinical social worker at Hattie Ide, can tell you about the wonderful services they provide our community.

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If you have any questions about these programs, or to register, please visit the Health Office or call 435-7870.

Exercise Programs Intermediate Yoga

Monday & Wednesday 9 a.m. $3 Integrated YOGA for emotional/mental power. Flexibility, strength, balances, beauty, stretching, weight reduction, improved breathing, relaxation, and stress relief. All are components of our Yoga classes.

Beginners Yoga

Mondays 10:30 a.m.

Ballroom Dance

Monday 2 p.m. $3 Relearn all the old moves on the ballroom dance floor as well as some new ones. Singles are welcome.

Aerobics

Tuesday & Thursday 9:30 a.m. $2 Instructor Karen Boyd gives members a great cardiovascular workout. Hand and ankle weights are used to tone and build your muscles.

Tai Chi

Tuesday 11:00 a.m. $3 This ancient art form of exercise has been proven to reduce stress as well as chronic pain. It also reduces heart rate along with calming the mind and body.

Arthritis Exercise

Wednesday & Friday 10:45 a.m. No Charge A proper balance of exercise and rest can help relieve stiffness and maintain or improve your joint mobility and muscle strength.

Chair Yoga

Friday 9:30 $3 Seated yoga poses increase strength and flexibility and offers the same physical, mental and spiritual benefits as a standing yoga practice.

Fitness Center

Our fitness room is open Monday through Friday 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. The fitness room consists of treadmills, recumbent bikes, an elliptical stepper, hand weights, and six dual weight machines. Other features include a matted floor, mirrored walls, water, stereo, and cable TV. You must have approval from your physician to participate in this program. Forms can be obtained in the Administration Office. The fee is $35 for a one year membership.

December 2011 The Reporter

Card Games

Bridge Thursday 1:00 p.m. Pokeno Monday 1:00 p.m. Cockroach Tuesday 8:15 a.m. Cribbage Tuesday 1:00 p.m. Hi Lo Jack League Friday 1:15 p.m.

Classes Watercolor

Tuesday 9:30 a.m. $5 Come learn a form of watercolor for all levels of talent. Some of the fantastic artwork is displayed throughout the center.

Drawing

Tuesday 1:00 p.m. $5 This group of artists works with pencil drawing, beginners to advanced welcome.

Crafts

Thursday 1:00 p.m. Craft class makes dolls for Hasbro Children’s Hospital and cancer pillows for Women & Infants Hospital. Other “make and take” crafts will be taught.

Computer Classes

Sessions & Times Vary Our computer lab consists of class room computers and computers for general use. All computers are on-line. Courses offered: Introduction to Computers, Microsoft Word Part 1 & 2, and Introduction to the Internet Part 1 & 2. Computer classes are conducted by trained computer teachers. Classes are held in 4 week sessions. Each class meets for 1hr. and 15 minutes. The cost per session is $20/members and $25/non members. Classes are filled on a first payment basis. Class size is limited to six students.

Support Groups Diabetes Support 1:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Open meeting held bi-monthly for people with diabetes to meet for mutual support. The group meets the second and fourth Thursday of each month. Caregiver’s Support 1 0 : 3 0 a . m . 11:30 a.m. This support group is held the fourth Monday each month. The sessions offer support and sharing with others who are caring for loved ones. Stroke Club 1:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. The Stroke Club meets on the first Wednesday of each month and provides entertainment, education, support, socialization, refreshments, and transportation for stroke survivors and their caregivers. In-Sight Support 12:45 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. In-Sight offers programs and support in productive living for the vision impaired. The group meets the 3rd Friday of every month.

Daily Programs

Computer games, Billiards, Cards, Nutritional Lunch, Bocce ball, Walking Track, Morning & Afternoon Coffee/Pastry

Senior Center Library

The library is a very warm and lovely place for people to choose a good book and read in a nice quiet area. We continue to receive many donations of new and current books. These donations have truly enhanced the quantity of our library. We also have current magazines for your enjoyment. The book club meets on Monday afternoons. New club members are welcome.

General Services

Elder Information Specialist: Our Elder Information Specialist assists the elderly and their families in providing information /referral and assistance with accessing services and programs. Nutrition Program: The center provides a nutritional meal to approximately 125 seniors per day. The Cranston Senior Center provides the meals. Case Management / Senior Services: The center coordinates with East Bay Community Action Program Inc., for all casework and follow-ups. Protective Services Council, made up of city departments and mental health/social service agencies, meets monthly to discuss problems concerning the elderly. Transportation: The center has two buses that are used daily for door-to-door transportation to and from the center. Notary: This service is available in the Administration Office at no charge. Seminars: Monthly social, educational, and financial seminars on topics relating to seniors. Manicurist: A manicurist visits the center weekly for manicures and polish changes. Gift Shop: The gift shop has many different items for the convenience of the seniors. Small items from candy and greeting cards to jewelry, handmade items and crafts are available.

Leisure Programs

Book Club Monday Bingo Tuesday Scrabble Wed & Friday Meditation Class Friday Library Daily Computer Games Daily Billiards Daily

Gift Shop

1:00 p.m. 1:25 p.m. 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. 8-4 p.m. Lounge Lower level

Remember to visit our lovely gift shop located in the dining room area. We have a great selection of hand made items, gift cards, and snacks.

East Providence Senior Center and Monty’s Trips

Feb. 20 – 22, 2012 Atlantic City - Tropicana Casino - $162.00 Dbl Occ. Includes: 2 Nights Accommodations, $25 Cash Bonus, 2 Dinner Buffets, Show (upon availability) and Motor Coach Transportation. Will make a breakfast stop going and dinner stop coming home Triple Occ. $162.00 Single Occ. $262.00 Insurance $30.00 April 15 – 21, 2012 Savannah, GA $515.00 Dbl. Occ. Includes: 6 Nights lodging, 6 Breakfasts, 4 Full course dinners including Paula Dean’s “Lady & Sons” Restaurant, Guided Tours of Savannah, Jell Island & St. Simons Island, Tour of Davenport House, the Penn Center & York W. Bailey Museum, Airborne & Special Operations Museum, Savannah’s River Street District, Souvenir gift, taxes and meal gratuities, and Motor Coach transportation. Triple Occ. $485.00pp Single. Occ. $664.00pp Deposit $75.00pp due with reservation. Insurance available. Caribbean Cruise On The Norwegian Gem - January 27th – February 5, 2013 Proces: Balcony Category $ 1,149.00 BA Outside Category $ 929.00 OB Inside Category $ 864.00 IB Deposit of $250.00 per person due with reservation. Passport required! Insurance available Sign up in the E. Providence Senior Center Administration Office or call (401) 435-7800 Ext. 7 Can also call: Eleanor Monteiro at (401)434-8194 - 28 Metacomet Avenue, Rumford, RI 02916

Wanted Coupons “Making a Difference’

We ask all to bring in clipped coupons found in the Sunday newspaper and maybe we can make a difference. They are distributed to the spouses and children of troops who sometimes struggle to make ends meet on military salaries.

Cell Phone Recycling

The center is collecting used or discarded cell phones. Most phones end up in kitchen drawers collecting dust. By partnering with Cellular Recycler, we have developed a way to make the most of used cell phones. A box is in the administration office for depositing the cell phones. We thank you in advance. The phones will either be recycled for their precious metals according to EPA standards or be refurbished for use in developing countries. The memory of each phone is “flashed” to wipe out any previous information stored on the cell phone.

Remember

You should never give out personal information to Someone who calls. The Government will not and does not call for this or any other personal information.

The Reporter December 2011

Birth Announcements

Hunter Cole Thomas

Paul and Christine Thomas of East Providence, RI wish to announce the birth of their son, Hunter Cole Thomas, on October 14, 2011 at Women & Infants Hospital. He weighed 8pds 8ozs. Hunter was welcomed home by his big sister Adrianah (4) and big brother Brayden (17 months). Maternal grandparents are Sandra & Ronald Oliver of East Providence. Paternal grandparents are Ann Thomas and the late Robert “Toolie” Thomas of Providence.

Zainab (Zizi) Marie Butler-Selim

Kaylee Butler and Karim Selim of Riverside, RI are proud to announce the birth of their daughter Zainab (Zizi) Marie Butler-Selim born 11/6/11 at Women & Infants Hospital and weighs 7 lbs. 13 ozs. Zizi is welcomed home by her big brother Adam. Maternal grandparents are Susan Bianchi of Riverside, RI, Brian Butler Sr. of Rumford, RI and, great grandmother Ann Butler of Pawtucket, RI. Paternal great grandmother is Makarma Mabrouk of East P H O RI. T O G R A P H Y Providence,

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December 2011 The Reporter

Weddings, Engagements &Anniversaries

Jennifer Romanoff Weds Eric Terceira

Mr. Randy Romanoff and Mrs. Dottie Hamel are pleased to announce the marriage of their daughter Jennifer to Eric Terceira, son of Antonio and Leonor Terceira of Rumford. Their wedding Ceremony took place on June 4, 2011 at Our Lady of the Rosary Church in Providence. Matron of honor was Jessica Lacerda, sister of the groom, and Best man Danny Placido cousin of the groom. The couple honeymooned on a Caribbean Cruise and Make their home in East Providence.

Upload and View Announcements:

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50th Anniversary Manuel & Maria C. Bettencourt

Manuel & Maria C. Bettencourt celebrated 50th wonderful years of marriage on June 19, 2011. They were married 50 years ago on June 19, 1961 in the small island of Graciousa, Azores. The couple are the proud parents of two daughters and their spouses, Connie & Jose Costa, Donna & Joseph Capelo both of East Providence. They renewed their marriage vows at St. Francis Xavier Church, East Providence RI and had a reception following with family and friends at the West Valley Inn. They are both retired and enjoy spending time with their grandchildren, Melanie, Steven & Nicolas Costa and Colin, Nathan & Victoria Capelo.

The Reporter December 2011

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HUNGRY? find it in the... December 2011 The Reporter

Dining Guide Recipes from Chef Erin...

Thanks for reading, and hopefully preparing a few of the recipes I have passed along. I had fun writing them. It’s time for someone new to take over writing and maybe add some different spice to this column. Welcome my friend and fellow foodie Angela. She is a well-versed gourmet chef, culinarian and all around good-cooker. I know you will enjoy her recipes, tips, and food perspectives. Please keep eating each other’s cooking and saying it’s good!

CONEY ISLAND SYSTEM 122 Taunton Ave., East Providence, RI Serving RI for over 90 years

Happy Holidays!

Come try our famous Portuguese Soup!

Breakfast Special! 2 eggs, homefries, toast & sm drink

Play With Your Food...

Exp. 1-15-12. Bring in this ad for the discount.

Weiners, small fry, small drink for $7.50

Thank you Chef Erin for your introduction. Hello, I’m Angela Hall and welcome to “Play With Your Food”… because cooking should be fun! Exp. 1-15-12. Bring in this ad for the discount. Well, the holiday season is upon us which, translates, primarily to…busy, busy, busy. However, this season, in this tough economy, everyone is looking for ways to save money. One way is by gifting foods. Hours: Mon-Thurs 7am-2am; The tradition of gifting foods is as old as gifting itself. I have read of gifting economies Fri & Sat 7am-3am that existed before barter or market economies. Ideally, simultaneous or recurring gifting serves to circulate and redistribute valuables within the community and, most importantly, everybody eats well. In early ancient Rome, simple gifts of twigs from a sacred grove and special foods were exchanged during the New Year’s celebration. A substantial variety of the goods available along The Silk Road were foods that included, nuts, fruits, sugar, tea, wine, salt, oils, spices and many of the tasty gift treats that we still enjoy today. If you’re one of those people that usually makes about a half dozen or so varieties of cookies, well then you know exactly what I mean. I’m sure you already have most of your baking supplies gathered and ready for the cookie-tray feast. But, if you’re not the baking type or you just don’t have enough time or cash to consider foods as gifts, well then let me introduce you to a few simple processes - with elegant resulting recipes. First I have the “Little Bit Baking”, then the “Little Less Baking” and the “No Baking” recipes to follow. So simple you will make these again and again. Little Bit Baking is Candied Cinnamon Walnuts. This simple HAPPY HOLIDAYS! yet elegant melt-in-your-mouth confection is toasted walnuts in a spiced meringue baked at a low temperature. This creates a pretty Sunday candy that can be placed in a decorative box, lovely and tasty. Football Little Less Baking is a savory delight of Zesty Baked Olives. Wings, Pizza The process of baking olives not only changes their texture but the flavor as well. Presented in a festive jar these olives can be enjoyed & Calzones warmed or cold, alone or on a salad. I suggest you make a little "Homestyle Comfort Food" extra you’ll want to keep some for yourself. Completly Renovated with 50's theme No Baking leads us the very beautiful Italian Pastry Cannoli. Serving Breakfast until 2pm, Lunch & Dinner This is a three-step process; mix ingredients in bowl, fill shells, *Daily Specials* place on holiday plate with dusting of powdered sugar. This is a Holiday Pies & cookies do-it-yourself that saves money yet looks and tastes expensive. Catering Available • Private Function RentalS Whatever you may decide to gift this holiday season, I suggest y that food is always welcome. Oranges and toasted nuts along with Fish-n-Chips $6.99 Ever y dark chocolate make a wonderful gift basket. Your food gifting opa Clamcakes & Chowder $5.99 d i r F tions are limited only by the imagination so…have fun. If you have any questions, comments or suggestions or if you would like to Thurs-Sun Night Serving Wings, Pizza, Calzones & More share with me pictures of your results from these recipes you can contact me at PLAYWITHFOODTODAY@gmail.com. Have a lovely 380 Taunton Ave, East Providence, RI • 401-434-9783 and safe holiday season. All the best in the New Year. Mon-Weds 6am-2pm, Thurs & Fri 6am-2pm & 4pm-9pm, Sat & Sun 7am-9pm

(401) 434-2399

IN E

w Servi

ER & WI

Pazi'se Plac

The Reporter December 2011

Little Bit Baking...

Candied Cinnamon Walnuts

We Cater Your Holiday Parties!

3 cups shelled walnut halves 2 egg whites ½ teaspoon salt (I use fine sea salt) ½ cup of sugar 1 teaspoon of cinnamon 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract Preheat oven to 350° F. On a cookie sheet, spread walnuts in a single layer. Toast for 8 to 10 minutes. Remove and let cool. This could be done before hand. Reduce oven to 250°F. Line cookie sheet with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, beat egg whites, salt and if using until frothy. Add sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla beat until foamy or silky ribbons in the batter. Fold in nuts. Spread on prepared cookie sheet in a single layer. Bake about 1 hour. The key to a meringue is to bake it low and slow. You’re drying out the whites so if after an hour they are still sticky to the touch you can put them back in for another 10 minutes or so. Then turn off the oven and let them dry and cool right in the oven. Break up into bit size pieces and enjoy. Makes about 8 to 10 servings.

Little Less Baking...

(We're the 1st exit over the bridge)

Zesty Baked Olives

Phillips Street Restaurant 51 N.Phillips Street • East Providence, RI, 02914 401-434-3224 • fax 401-228-3323

Portuguese Cuisine

• Daily Specials • Lunch & Dinner

Order Food For That Special Occassion S 12-6 M 12-9 Th 12-9 T closed F 12-10 W 12-9 S 12-10

Holy Ghost Beneficial Brotherhood of RI

Preheat oven to 325° Combine all ingredients in a large bowl, drizzle olive oil and toss to coat well. Place in baking pan or dish and bake for about 30 minutes. Enjoy warm or cold. Pack in festive jar with additional olive oil. Can be stored in refrigerator or up to a month.

No Baking...

Cannoli

COUNTRY KITCHEN Serving Breakfast & Lunch

Homemade Holiday Pies Order Early for Christmas Homemade Jellies Breads - Banana, Pumpkin Holiday Baskets to order

2 cups mixed olives, drained 3 or 4 Tablespoons olive oil, drizzle don’t measure 4 cloves of minced garlic Zest from 1 medium lemon Zest from 1 small orange 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)

•Fresh Fruit Waffles• •Homemade Pies• •Fish-n-chips•

• Daily Specials • Take out Available (508) 336-9807 469 Taunton Ave., Rt. 44, Seekonk, MA

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 6am-2pm, Sat. 7am-11am, Sun. 8am-12pm

1 (32 oz.) container of ricotta cheese, drained, (can use whole or part skimmed to cut calories) 1 cup powered sugar with additional for dusting. 1 cup of mini semisweet chocolate chips (or 4 to 5 oz of chopped semisweet chocolate) 1 tablespoon of a sweet liqueur such as, Frangelico, Grand Marnier, Triple Sec, these can be purchased in mini bottles for a few dollars or if you prefer not to use a liqueur you can use 1 tablespoon of any of the following: vanilla, orange extract, almond extract, or anise extract. Zest of 1 orange 12 cannoli shells, you can find these at most supermarkets, not really a specialty item anymore. In a large bowl combine ingredients, mix well. Using a tip-less pastry bag or a heavy zip-lock type plastic bag, fill with cheese mixture. (If using a plastic bag, cup off about ½ inch from one corner). Gently squeeze cream into the shells, one end at a time. Place on a holiday platter, dust with powdered sugar and cocoa (optional).

December 2011 The Reporter

CLASSIFIEDS BUSINESS CLASSIFIED RATES $35 FOR 30 WORDS

Classified Deadline: 25th of the Month We reserve the right to alter and/or reject advertising

Submit your classifed at www.ReporterToday.com

FARMERS MARKET

FREE: 26 laying hens, from two years to eight months. Call 508-252-4211

HAY FOR SALE Great Meadow Hill Farm. Fairview Ave, Rehoboth. 60lb. bales $5. Please Call (508)252-4958

FOR RENT

WANTED LAND WANTED: Couple interested in purchasing 2 to 5 wooded acres in the Rehoboth area to build private home. All inquiries to PDD2171@gmail.com Wanted: Military items from Civil War, Vietnam, WWII. Call for a quote, ask for Charlie. 508-230-6444.

FREE: Four young cats, altered, up-todate on rabies shots indoor/outdoor, barn, mousers. Call 508-252-4211

Additional Words $.25 each

HOME CARE & HOUSE KEEPING: Care for elderly person(s) available. Flexible hours, up to 5 days a week. Also available: House Cleaning for Residential properties. Call 508-496-5350 Cleanouts & Cleanups: Houses, attics, cellars, garages, sheds, yards, etc. Demolition of sheds, fences, pools, decks, etc. Junk Removal, gutters cleaned, & handyman services. Insured. Call Gary at (508)245-0832.

House for lease. South Rehoboth Newly renovated 1BR,1Bth 536 SF, Great for single of couple starting out. Off street parking, nice yard, gas heat. $750.00 month, first, last, security. Call 941-743-7830

HELP WANTED

FOR SALE

FREE STUFF!

1 To 15 Words - $10 16 To 30 Words - $15

East Providence: Excellent Location. Be Tenant, Helper, Friend. Nice Private. Furnished accomodations, All Utilities, cable, bus. For ONE mature clean NO SMOKE adult with valid driving license. $345.00 monthly. Call 401-434-1372

VACATION RENTALS VACATION/HONEYMOON RENTAL:St. Michael, Azores (Portugal), pristine 2-bed/2bath apartment with kitchen, DR, LR, & laundry. Linens provided. Majestic Atlantic and mountain views from spacious deck, near golf, beach, etc. Call 401-480-0374 or 508-336-8432 for info/reservations.

FOR SALE: Babylock Ellisimo Embroidery Machine w/ Embroidery Bundle; never been used; Great Christmas present; Also Available Brand New Babylock Surger; Call 401-724-1184 or 401-440-3802

GENERAL SERVICES Party Platter Creations Vegetable, Fruit and Cheese Platters beautifully arranged, for any occasion. Call Helen Mathewson at 508-252-4294 Fax 508-2524694 or Email smathewson@verizon.net

East Providence Now Can Submit Classifieds On Our Website. View & Post at

SNOWPLOW DRIVEWAY Looking for reliable person to snowplow/shovel small driveway in East Providence. Call 401-5008695 or 339-0051 for additional information.

TUTORING Tutoring: Private tutoring of your child in your home. Grades K-8: all subjects. High School: Math All levels. Experienced teacher, engineer, tutor, homeschooling Mom. References available. Kilian 508-2524413, sulsil@juno.com.

CLASSES / LESSONS PIANO LESSONS: Taught in my home, both classical and popular to persons of all ages. Anita Russo, 8 Terrybrooke Road, Rehoboth 508-252-4208. HORSEBACK RIDING LESSONS: Beginners through advanced, boarding with all day turnout, training with world champion, Indoor-outdoor lighted rings, reasonable rates, ponies for parties and outings, summer camp, pony club at farm; Hawkswood Farm 508-336-6114. PUPPIES FOR SALE: Labradoodle and Jack Russell puppies; call Hawkswood Farm 508-336-6114.

PETS

www.

.com

PEMBROKE WELSH CORGI PUPS: AKC, Champion sired. Red/White. $800 w/ crate. Call 508-252-9242

The Reporter December 2011

DECEMBER BUSINESS DIRECTORY Appliance Repairs Attorney Attorney Auto Body Auto Body Auto Body Auto Body Auto Dealers Auto Dealers Auto Detailing Auto Repairs Auto Repairs Auto Repairs Auto Repairs Auto Repairs Auto Repairs Auto Salvage Bank Building Contractor Building Contractor Candidate - East Prov. Candidate - East Prov. Candidate - East Prov. Carpentry - Finish Chamber of Commerce Church Collectibles Credit Union Credit Union Dance Studio Dentist Dog Grooming Engine Repair-Lawn Excavating Farm - Apples Farm - Turkeys Flag Specialists Florist Florist Florist Food Service Framing - Custom Fuel - Oil

CJS / Statewide Appliance Repair 53 Cutcliffe, Galvin & Archetto 53 Donald E. MacManus, Attorney 54 A-1 Custom Auto Body 57 East Providence Auto Body 43 Fogarty Auto Body 59 Tri Star Autobody, Inc. 53 Hot Rides INC. 17 Somerset Subaru - Max Motors, Inc 55 Buff It 12 Barbosa & Son Auto Repair 46 East Bay Automotive Inc 2 Fred’s Service Center , Inc 24 New England Tire 45 Somerset Chrysler Jeep - Max Motors 72 Somerset Subaru - Max Motors, Inc 28 Seekonk Auto Salvage 23 Coastway Credit Union / Decunha 15 East Providence Siding 42 Gianlorenzo & Sons Construction 21 Frank Devall 10 Helio Melo, State Rep. 57 Michael DiGioia 46 Mark Koussa Carpentry 40 East Providence Chamber 20 St Brendan Church 47 Wexler’s Collectibles 34 Columbus Credit Union 38 Community & Teachers Credit Union 7 Arthur Murray 25 Romani Orthodontics 7 All Paws On Deck Pet Salon 21 Fred’s Service Center 54 C. Grant Excavating 13 Bateson’s Apple Farm 21 Belwing Acres Turkey Farm 11 Atlantic Flag Shop 31 Gilmores Flower Shop 30 P & J Florist 32 Phil Judge Florist, Inc. 31 Thomsen Foodservice 18 Frames of Mind 31 Affordable Fuel 35

COMING IN JANUARY Health & Fitness Section Don't let the new Year Start without you! Call 508.252.6575 to Advertise!

Fuel - Oil Fuel - Oil Fuel - Propane Furniture/Upholstery Gift Shop Gifts & Collectibles Hair / Nails Hair Salon Hair Salon Hair Salon Hair Salon Handyman Hardware Store Heating Service Home Improvements Insurance Agency Internal Medicine Landscape Service Landscape Service Liquor Store Liquor Store Liquor Store Live Entertainment Martial Arts Medical Center Medical Practice Mortgage Broker Mortgage Broker Music Music, Weddings Nursing Homes Nursing Homes Nursing Homes Optometrists Orthodontics Orthodontics Parks Photographer Physical Therapy Plumbing & Heating Private School Real Estate Real Estate Real Estate Real Estate Real Estate Real Estate Real Estate Remodeling Restaurant Restaurant Restaurant Restaurant Restaurant Roofer/WaterProofing Roofing Contractor Roofing Contractor Roofing Contractor Salt Small Engine Repair Tanning Salons Trash/Junk Removal Tree Service Upholsterers

Al’s Quality Oil Co. 6 COD OIL 57 Arrow Gas Corp. - Inergy Propane 12 Masterson Furniture and Upholstery 23 The Claddagh Connection 29 Personal Touch 29 Perfect Nails & Facials 32 Creative Styles 30 Perfectcuts 18 Shear Image Salon 24 The Cutting Gallery 26 Just In Time Handyman Service 14 Standard Hardware 32 Almeida’s Heating Service 52 Professional Property Maintenance 59 Lezaola Thompson Insurance Inc. 35 Daniela Turacova , M.D 9 Jacole B Landscaping 13 Superior Lawn Care 34 Jordan’s Liquors 26 Vintage Wine & Beer 28 Wine & Spirits Depot 72 Disney On Ice - Feld Entertainment 56 New England Martial Arts Dojo 11 East Providence Urgent Care 9 Internal Medicine & Preventative Care 17 NE Moves Mortgage 8 Prospect Mortgage, llc 38 Doug’s Music Retail & Learning Cent 27 Classic Flute Duos 65 United Methodist Elder Care Comm 10 United Methodist Elder Care Comm 48 Waterview Villa 39 Brown Center 40 George Family Orthodontics 16 Romani Orthodontics 7 Crescent Park Carousel 18 Fetching Photography 64 Sport & Spine Physical Therapy 51 Dyer Plumbing & Heating 14 The Providence Country Day School 49 Coldwell Banker Residential Broker 8 Cresent Park Manor - Picerne Realty 11 Mateus Realty 71 Pamela McNulty Reis-Mateus Realty 47 Ray Paiva @Paiva Realty Group 38 ReMax Rivers Edge 15 The Tirrell Team 36 Batty Construction 12 Country Kitchen 68 Pazi’s Place 67 Phillips Street Restaurant 68 Sparky’s Coney Island 67 Wings & Things 68 Cameron Roofing 40 Colonial Roofing & Construction 43 Tabeleys Roofing 35 Willard Roofing 44 B & B Trucking 16 Seekonk Small Engine Inc. 39 SunSational Tanning 27 Big Blue Removal Service 42 Advanced Tree 42 Rad’s Rods 13

December 2011 The Reporter

Buying or Selling - Call

MATEUS Realty The experience makes the difference!

So if you're ready to buy or sell, Call Mateus Realty today at 434-8399.

Attention Buyers!! • Large Inventory!! • Lower Prices!! Now Is A Great Time to buy!! • LOW Interest Rates ED

EAST PROVIDENCE - 3 Br Ranch, partially finished basement. Young roof, siding, replacement win's, kitch, furnace, c/a & HW tank. Upgraded elec, Hw's, tile, french drs to deck, sprinklers, garage, easy hwy access, min's from East Side! $159,900

CRANSTON - Stadium!! Near bike path & schools; 3 Br 2 bath Ranch, 2 Kt's, FR, Hw's/Tile, c/a, gas heat, upgraded electric, garage, fenced yard, sprinklers, new roof, siding, replacement windows. $169,900

EAST PROVIDENCE - Pierce Field!! Estate Sale!! Clean Spacious, 4Br, 2 bath cottage, dining, siding, replacement windows, upgraded electric, young gas boiler / HW tank, 8,000+sf lot $159,900

EAST PROVIDENCE - Centrally located!! Clean 2 Br, 1 1/2 bath Ranch, FR, Hw's, Tile, patio, garage, 6000+ SF lot. $169,900

EAST providence - Centrally located!! Spacious 3 Br, 2 bath home, dining, LR/ FP, sunroom, Hw's, young gas boiler, upgraded electric, siding, replacement windows, garages, minutes to East side & downtown Prov. $169,900

EAST PROVIDENCE - Pride of ownership!! 3 Br, 2 bath R/Ranch; finished lower, Hw's, Tile, gas heat, c/a, french doors to deck, sliders to patio, sprinklers, garage, fenced yard, easy hwy access, minutes from East Side!! $259,900

EAST PROVIDENCE - Kent Heights!! 3 Br, 2 bath R/Ranch, FR, bar, new roof, casement windows, stone/stucco ext, sliders to concrete balcony & patio, gas heat, c/a, cathedrals, Hw's, tile, garages, 9000+sf corner lot. $249,900

EAST Providence - Pierce Field!! Clean 2 Family; 2 Brs, porch on ea., par tially finished lower level; young roof, siding, replacement windows, gas boilers/hw tanks, upgraded electric, separate utilities. $199,900

EAST PROVIDENCE - Clean 3 Family, 2 Brs each, gas heat, upgraded elctric, separate utilities, siding, replacement windows, young roof, minutes to East side and downtown Providence. $199,900

A sign of success and a name you can trust!

RIVERSIDE - Waddington!! Neat 3 Br Ranch, cathedrals, skylights, gas heat; new roof, windows, kitchen, bath and interior doors, siding, deck, pool, $179,900

Happy Holidays!

RUMFORD - 2 Family near golf course! 3 Brs, dining, prch each, young roof, siding, replacement windows; gas heat, upgraded electric, separate utilities, Hw's, garages. $219,900

434-8399

FALAMOS PORTUGUES • FAX # 435-3401

582 Warren Avenue • East Providence, RI 02914

Seekonk - Cozy/expandable 2 Br Ranch with great potential near High Scool, replacement windows, oversized cinder block 2 car garage with loft& bath, 14,000+sf corner lot $164,900

Serving East Providence and surrounding areas since 1975.

Visit our website for information on these and other properties at...

MateusRealty.net

The Reporter December 2011

Postmaster: Deliver by December 7th

Attention All Chrysler, Jeep & Dodge Owners Oil Change Special on most Chrysler Vehicles

PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID REHOBOTH, MA PERMIT NO. 61

Visit us today! 1925 Pawtucket Ave, East Providence, RI

Wampanoag Plaza next to Stop & Shop at the intersection of Pawtucket & Taunton Ave!

401.433.0231

winespiritsdepot.com

Don’t miss our Holiday Sales 12/2-12/10 & 12/16-12/24

Factory Authorized to Sell & Service ALL Chrysler, Jeep & Dodge Vehicles regardless of where they were purchased!

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CHRYSLER • JEEP • DODGE 1491 Brayton Point Rd. Somerset Ma.

508-675-1106

EXIT 4 195

OFF

s t e k s a B Gift Visit our large selection of Wine, Beer and Spirits Gift Baskets. Interested in custom baskets? Ask an associate for details. Delivery Available!

Marketed by:

We are now accepting Holiday orders!