The recently published 2012 Annual Town Report, compiled by Reggie Medeiros-Kowalczykowski, executive assistant to the Town Manager, looks back at the previous year in Stoughton. 

The 285th Town Report includes summaries from the various town departments.

Here's a look at statistics from the Stoughton Police and Fire Departments, according to data from the 2012 Annual Town Report (click here to see the report in full):

STOUGHTON FIRE DEPARTMENT

• 5,230 incidents
• 24 structure fires
• 0 civilian casualties or serious injuries as a result of these fires
• 418 motor vehicle crashes with injury
• 2,200 patients transported by SFD ambulances 
• 5 elevator rescues 
• $111,600 in revenues generated by the SFD through permit fees/inspections

STOUGHTON POLICE DEPARTMENT 

• 23,504 calls for service (up 1.3% from 2011) 
• 1,114 arrests (up 2.1% from 2011)
• 1,650 incident reports (down 5.8% from 2011)
• 3,108 citations (up 21.8% from 2011)
• 9 new officers hired (two transfers from other departments - Matt Farwell and Dan Carmichael - and seven recruits currently being trained at the Boston Police Academy - Tom Covino, Mike Medina, Al Medeiros, Dave Hoadley, Heather Cheever, Tim Hansler, Dan Barber)

By Laura Vanderkam on AOLJobs.com

Since Sheryl Sandberg's book came out in March, there's been a lot of discussion on leaning in, and various attitudes and barriers that might be holding women back. Why aren't more women in leadership roles?

A recent Citi/LinkedIn poll of professional women looked at this issue specifically. Only 38 percent of women in this sample thought they would rise to a more senior leadership position in their companies. The biggest reason was a lack of opportunities to be promoted, but the second reason (cited by 30 percent of those who didn't think they'd advance) was being reluctant to take time away from their families and personal lives. 

If you’re looking for a job in Stoughton, check out our jobs page.

I find this interesting in light of a few things. First, given that a study found that 4 in 10 families with kids have a female breadwinner, it's interesting to see the proportion of women who think their primary contribution to their children should be time, not money. Many promotions come with reasonable raises, which would also, presumably, benefit the children.

More: Cisco CEO Meets Sheryl Sandberg: 'My Eyes Were Opened'

But I also wonder if the time concern stems from a few common cultural narratives, too—namely, that success requires forsaking a personal life, or that more responsibility will bring about a home life chaos that isn't worth the cost.

Maybe it will. Maybe it won't. Recently I interviewed Karen Finerman, author of the new book Finerman's Rules. Finerman is the CEO of Metropolitan Capital Advisors, a New York-based hedge fund. She's also the mother of four children (including two daughters, which makes the subtitle of her book, "Secrets I'd Only Tell My Daughters About Business and Life," kind of strange—in that she's not only telling her daughters. She's telling us too! But I digress).

When she got an offer a few years ago to do a regular gig on CNBC's Fast Money, she wondered how she was going to fit it all in. Indeed, she did go through a short fit of self-pity and exhaustion. But she also knew that it was a big opportunity to raise her profile.

More: Fearful Women Shun Maternity Leave, Study Reveals

So she identified a few ways to make it work. First, to be on TV, she gave up watching TV. She gave up a hobby (modern art, in case you're wondering—you get classy hobbies when you run a hedge fund). She learned to be efficient at live television: Once you know what you're doing, you can work from bullet points rather than creating a whole script for yourself. And she also got CNBC to come to her office to do hair and makeup. That's time she doesn't have to be in the studio, and can still be working.

Likewise, before turning down an opportunity, it would behoove anyone—women, men, parents, non-parents—to look at all the options, and don't argue other people's positions without knowing what they are. Maybe your spouse would be willing to step up things at home. Who knows? Maybe your spouse was hoping you'd get a big promotion so he/she could work less. Maybe your kids would like to live overseas for a year or two. Maybe your extended family would be willing to rearrange things to let you take an opportunity that requires travel. Maybe you could just try it and see how it goes. You can always switch to a different job later if you don't like it—but at least you're looking for a different job with a more senior position on your resume.

That was pretty much Finerman's advice. As she told me, "You never know till you try it. Don't turn it down—try it and see." While I realize there might be some transaction costs if you try "it" and "it" is moving to Switzerland and "it" doesn't work out, many new opportunities wouldn't require such adjustments. Instead, they require sitting in your office at Metropolitan Capital Advisors attempting to look serious while you've got curlers in your hair. That's doable.

We feature homes for sale on the site, but there are also rental opportunities in the Stoughton area.

Click on the homes in the map to get more information about the available rental properties in the Stoughton area (need to be viewing from the desktop version of the site).

Blanchard Sentenced to Life in Prison for 2010 Murder of Stoughton Man

Michael W. Blanchard, 24, of Stoughton will potentially be spending the rest of his life in prison after being found guilty of murdering another Stoughton man back in 2010.

Blanchard shot and killed 21-year-old Stephen Erving in the early morning hours of March 16, 2010.

He fired several rounds from a 9 mm pistol through Erving’s first-floor bedroom window on Lincoln Street in Stoughton, killing Erving, according to the DA's office. 

This past Wednesday, Blanchard was sentenced to life in prison on the second degree murder charge, with a concurrent sentence of 2.5 years to 2.5 years-and-one-day in state prison for his conviction on carrying a firearm without a license in this attack.

Read more by clicking on the following links:

Stoughton Man Found Guilty of 2010 Lincoln Street Murder

Blanchard Sentenced to Life in Prison for 2010 Murder of Stoughton Man

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Town Meeting Nears Finish Line

Town Meeting sessions 5 and 6, held Monday, June 17 and Wednesday, June 19, respectively, were the most productive in terms of the number of articles passed.  

Click on the following links to see what was approved at each session:

Town Meeting OKs Repairs to Stoughton Fire Station, Approves Traffic Study

Town Meeting Approves Purchase of Vacant Building, Quarterly Tax Billing, School Repairs, CAPP Playground Study

Town Meeting resumes with session #7 on Monday, June 24, and with less than 20 articles to go, this could be the final night of the 2013 Annual Town Meeting.

***

Also Making Headlines (click on the link for the full story):

• Stoughton Police Make Arrests for Armed Robbery, Drunk Driving, Drug Possession

• 11-Year-Old Stoughton Boy Helping Raise Money for Cancer Through PMC Kids Bike Rides

• Stoughton High Honors Standout Juniors at Awards Ceremony

• 'Kick It 4 Jake' Memorial Fundraiser Pays Tribute to Stoughton's Jake Hoffman

• Chuck & Cheese Makes a Name for Itself in Stoughton

• Photo Gallery: 2013 Stoughton High Alumni Baseball Game

• Photo Gallery: New England Revolution Player Kelyn Rowe Visits Stoughton Youth Soccer

The following is from the Stanetsky Memorial Chapel website:

Judith (Rantz) Silver, 67, of Stoughton, passed away June 20, 2013. 

She was the beloved wife of Norman Silver, and devoted mother of Holly Staples and her husband Richard of Peabody and Barry Silver and his wife Melissa of North Attleboro.

She was the loving sister of Allen Rantz and his wife Joyce of FL and Michael Rantz and his wife Diane of Attleboro.

And, the cherished grandmother of Morgan, Maya and Mikalah Silver and Alex Staples. 

Services were held at the Stanetsky Memorial Chapels in Canton on June 21. Interment was at Sharon Memorial Park. 

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made in her memory to the Caring Voice Coalition, 8249 Meadowbridge Road, Mechanicsville, VA 23116.

Each week, we'll feature a different outstanding criminal case from around the region. Information is courtesy of MassMostWanted.com. If you have any information regarding the case, contact your local police department.

Robbery - Case No. 120450
August 20, 2012
Franklin : Walgreens

Case Details:
Male suspect, @ 5' 6" tall, small build, brown eyes, dark eyebrows, wearing black facemask, black running pants w/ light stripe down leg, black sneakers, black hoodie, black gloves, carrying a red backpack with black stripes, approached two employees of Walgreens as they were leaving. At gun point, suspect brings both employees into office and demands money from two safes. Suspect then is brought to rear exit and leaves store on foot.

If you have any information about the identity of this person or where they are, please contact:

Franklin P.D.: (508) 528-1212 x 2729
Investigator: Det. Sgt. Jim Mill Det. Michael Kenney
Case Submission No.: 120450

The following was submitted to Stoughton Patch:

The Stoughton Legion Post 89 baseball team defeated Weymouth Post 79 by a score of 6-3 on Sunday to even its record at 3-3.  

Sam Werman earned the complete game victory, his second of the season. Werman scattered 6 hits and struck out 4 along the way.

"Sam is a competitor and though he didn't have his 'A' game early in the game, he got into a good rhythm and pounded the strike zone," said Stoughton manager Jim Derochea.

"We've been really short-handed for one reason or another so far this season and we really needed this kind of outing (from Sam) to help our bullpen get some rest.  Sam is a horse on the mound and it is great to see him continue to grow as a pitcher."

While Weymouth was jumping out to an early 3-0 lead, Stoughton struggled to push across runs in the early going, stranding 5 runners against Weymouth's knuckleball pitcher in the first 3 innings.  Stoughton finally got on the board in the 4th inning, striking for 4 runs to take the lead.  

Stoughton batters worked 3 walks in the inning combined with a Kaleb Ballou single and 2 wild pitches and 2 stolen bases to tie the score. Team Captain, Pat Jackman then added a long sacrifice fly to give Stoughton it's first lead, 4-3.  

Post 89 added an insurance run in both the 5th and 6th innings to extend the lead to 6-3.  

In the 5th inning, a clutch 2-out single by Matt Provost brought home Mike Gallagher who had led off the inning with a long double to left center field.  In the 6th, Nic Panasci singled, stole second and later road home on a Jackman single to close out the scoring.  

It was all Werman from there as he cruised to his second complete game win of the young season.

"This was a nice win for us because Weymouth's knuckleballer had us off balance in the early going.  We battled through it and manufactured some runs to get us going in that 4th inning to get back into the ball game," Derochea said. 

Stoughton plays a Home-Home series against Cohasset,Monday at Cohasset High and Tuesday at Stoughton High before traveling to Quincy's Adams Field on Wednesday night.

Stoughton's State House delegation - State Senator Brian A. Joyce (D-Milton) and State Representatives Louis Kafka (D- Stoughton) and William Galvin (D- Canton) - announced they had joined their colleagues in supporting reforms to the state's welfare system.

The push for reform comes after a number of recent stories detailing abuse or fraud in the state's welfare system.

"A recent state audit found more than 1,000 cases of welfare benefits being paid to people who had died or people using Social Security numbers of people who had died. While Democratic Gov. Deval Patrick’s administration disputed those figures, the audit and other recent investigations have amped up the pressure to overhaul the system,"according to an Associated Press article posted on Boston.com.  

The house and senate bills offer a number of reforms, most notably the requirement of photo ID on EBT cards. 

A final bill would need the approval of Governor Deval Patrick. 

The house and senate versions of the bill are detailed below in press releases from the offices of Sen. Brian A. Joyce and Reps. Louis Kafka and William Galvin:

SENATE

HOUSE

The following information is from the Stoughton Police logs. Where arrests or charges are mentioned, it does not indicate a conviction.

***

Drunk Driving

A caller reported to Stoughton Police that a black Honda was "all over the roadway" shortly after 7:30 p.m. on June 21.

Police made a motor vehicle stop on Rogers Drive, off Morton Street, arresting a man for alleged drunk driving.

Philip Arsenault, 41, of Canton was charged with operating under the influence of liquor. 

***

Larceny 

At 6:17 p.m. on June 17 Stoughton Police received a call that a woman had broken into her ex-boyfriend's apartment on French Street. 

Kelsi Poh, 22, of Bridgewater is charged with breaking and entering (daytime for felony), larceny from building, and malicious destruction of property (more than $250).

***

Shoplifting 

Target reported an alleged case of shoplifting at 1:12 p.m. on June 18. 

Alyssha S. Delellis, 24, of Greenbrook Drive in Stoughton was charged with shoplifting more than $100 by concealing merchandise.

Jennifer Denisco, 27, or Randolph, was also charged with shoplifting more than $100 by concealing merchandise.

***

Shoplifting

Target reported an alleged case of shoplifting at 4 p.m. on June 17. 

A 15-year-old girl was charged with shoplifting by concealing merchandise. 

***

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BIG HONOR FOR STOUGHTON'S MIKE PAZYRA: Stoughton Veterans Agent Mike Pazyra was installed on Wednesday, June 19 as President of the Massachusetts Veterans' Service Officers Association. The festivities were held at the Yarmouth House on Cape Cod. 

Many dignitaries were in the crowd, including Secretary of Veterans Affairs Coleman Nee, State Senator Brian A. Joyce (D-Milton), who presented Pazyra with a Citation from the Senate, and Massachusetts House Speaker Robert DeLeo. 

Senator Joyce addressed the crowd and said, "Since Mike took over in Stoughton, services to veterans in the area have grown immensely, even as his pay has decreased." 

Joyce detailed: "For instance when Mike started the town had eight active state service cases and zero federal cases. At the end of last year, he had 93 active state cases and more than 100 federal cases. In 2004, his office paid out $22,100 in aid for the town’s veterans. Last year, that number was $441,000." 

"He’s the kind of guy that once he puts his mind to something, is unstoppable in his advocacy. So naturally, he’s going to be a good president for your organization," Joyce added.  

Joyce also told the veteran's agents in the Cape Cod audience, "Honestly, sometimes I feel like the state should be charging Mike rent in my office in Boston for as much as he stops by with information on an amendment or a bill. In the Legislature, we do what we can and try to anticipate and react to the needs of our current and former soldiers. But you’re working with these brave men and women every day. And it is critical that you continue to reach out to us in the Legislature to let us know what hurdles our veterans are facing." 

The Massachusetts Veterans' Service Officers Association is comprised of Veterans' Service Officers (VSO's) and their staffs across the State.  Actually, the term Veterans' Service Officer officially replaced the term Veterans Agent years ago, but old names die hard. In Stoughton, Pazyra is still known as the Veterans Agent. 

Pazyra became a member when he started his job for Stoughton in April, 2005.  

He tells About Town, "I became Secretary/Treasurer [of the Massachusetts Veterans' Service Officers Association] around October 2006 and continued in that role through June 2012, at which time I became the 1st Vice-President of the Association."

Pazyra continued, "Our Association is well regarded at the State House, reflective of the fact that when we have our annual Legislation Luncheon at the State House, the vast majority of Representatives and Senators attend.  In fact, when I'm at the State House on veterans issues, I really don't see Democrats or Republicans, just Americans doing what they can to help those citizens of the Commonwealth who served."  

Pazyra, a Stoughton resident, who lives in town with his wife Cindy, added, "Veteran Service Officers are the link between veterans and their dependents (spouses, children, widows, widowers) and benefits which have been earned by or for them.  We help apply for Federal, State and Local benefits.  Those that need the most help are often the ones that are the hardest to reach.  Suicide among veterans is nothing less that a national tragedy.  Both the State and Federal Governments are heavily involved in this issue. Outreach is critical to the job, as is knowledge and on-going training." 

"Massachusetts is a national leader in providing benefits and services to our veterans and their families because of the strong partnerships we have with federal, state and local resources," said Department of Veterans' Services Secretary Coleman Nee. 

"The municipal service officers and The Massachusetts Veterans Service Officers Association (MVSOA) are critical components of that system and the "first responders" for our veterans in the community," Nee continued.  "Mike has served the Town of Stoughton and his community well over the last seven years and I have every confidence he will bring the same commitment and dedication to leading the MVSOA and I look forward to working with him."

Pazyra said that by law, every community in the Commonwealth with a population over 12,000 is supposed to have a full-time VSO. Those under 12,000 have part-time VSO's.  

While there have always been Districts formed by smaller communities, Regionalization has over the past few years become a bigger issue.  Fortunately, the Secretary of Veterans' Services, Coleman Nee, has established strict guidelines with set staffing requirements.  

"While most communities are in compliance with the law, unfortunately, many are not.  This is an onging issue, the result being that in those communities, the veterans and their families do not get the services they deserve.  Secretary Nee has stated many times the veterans are often punished by geography," Pazyra added. 

Pazyra continued, "VSO's are currently on the path to becoming certified through testing.  A bill to establish this is currently winding its way through the Legislature.  This is projected to help with the aforementioned compliance issue. We generally file State legislation during the legislative cycle, and this year I anticipate the Association filing Federal legislation on at least two issues." 

Pazyra, a Vietnam era veteran, concluded, "Dealing with the Veterans Administration can be difficult.  Cases can take years to get completed.  The priority, until just very recently, was to give priority to OIF/OEF veterans, those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan.  This also includes the Gulf War veterans from the first war in that region in 1990-1991.  Next came the WWII and Korean veterans.  Someone thought it might be a good idea to try to get through these claims before the veterans died of old age.  And finally, at the end of the line was everyone else, including the Vietnam vets, who at least were used to being at the end of the line.  As stated, however, the priorities recently changed.  The VA is now trying to finish up all cases over two years old.  They have also developed a new claims process that seems to be speeding the adjudication of cases along."

***

The following is adapted from a press release from the New England Patriots:

Nearly 500 first responders, including three Stoughton Police Officers, gathered on the Gillette Stadium field and around Patriot Place over the weekend to participate in a symbolic 26-hour workout marathon that raised $117,000 for the victims of the Boston Marathon bombings. 

The METROLEC SWAT team, in conjunction with Gillette Stadium, hosted 37 first response teams for the 26-hour endurance event that began at 2:50 p.m. Saturday, June 22 and concluded shortly after 4 p.m. Sunday, June 23, with the goal of raising over $100,000 for The One Fund Boston.

Lt. John Bonney, Officer Jen Sullivan and Officer John Gagne were there representing the Stoughton Police Department.

SPD Chief Paul Shastany was also in attendance cheering his officers on, as were chiefs from other area departments.

First responders participating in the event included police officers, firefighters, nurses and paramedics throughout the area, many of whom responded to the Boston Marathon bombings on April 15. Over the weekend, these men and women responded again by raising money through a unique marathon of their own.

Participants gathered on the Gillette Stadium field on Saturday, June 22 for opening ceremonies at 2:50 p.m. – the time of the first explosion near the finish line of the Boston Marathon.

First responders participated in 26 separate workout stations in and around Gillette Stadium and Patriot Place over the 26-hour period with many of the event stations designed to reflect the jobs and tasks of all the first responders represented in the workout marathon. The workout began with a scavenger hunt throughout Gillette Stadium and featured other events like flag football, dodgeball, hose carry and a run through the New England Patriots agility course.

On Sunday, the marathon’s 37 teams came together as one to finish the last workout event: Capture the Flag. First responders raced to the top of Gillette Stadium’s 300-level to “capture” miniature American flags before closing ceremonies at 3 p.m.

Bonney and Sullivan were on the same team, while Gagne was with the METROLEC SWAT group who organized the event, helping to run the marathon stations.

“It was an amazing event,” Bonney said. “The Metro Unit should be extremely proud of themselves. Jen Sullivan and I would like to thank the Bay State Brave team from Milton PD that allowed us to compete with them.”

“It was a grueling challenge, he said, “but what kept me going was the thought that though I never met Officer Collier or Officer Donahue I was certain they would have loved to compete in an event like that.  With that in mind we pushed the pain aside and pressed on.”

Bonney added, “We also would like to thank the people of Stoughton who sent us encouraging messages along the way."

What is your favorite summer memory? Close your eyes and think back -- where were you and who was with you? How old were you? Were you the fastest in the neighborhood at chasing down the ice cream man? Did you help your parents plant a flower or vegetable garden? Maybe you remember spending lazy days by the lake, or pool, passing the deep-end test or your first time going off the high dive.

Tell us below in comments! 

Need more summer inspiration? Check out the official 'Grown Ups 2' Pinterest page and don’t forget to see the movie, in theaters July 12. 

A Stoughton teen was arrested Monday morning in Weymouth after police in that town say he ran over another man with his car, struck several parked vehicles, a fence and a tree and then fled the scene.

The suspect, Jeffry Barthelmy, 18, was located on Northern Ave. in Weymouth, a short distance from the alleged incident on Emilissa Lane and was arrested, according to Weymouth Police Captain Richard Fuller. 

The 28-year-old victim was transported to the South Shore Hospital by family members, where police say he was being treated for non-life threatening injuries.

When questioned by police, Barthelmy said he was attacked by the alleged victim with a hypodermic needle just before 9 a.m. on Monday.

Barthelmy stated that when he arrived at the residence on Emilissa Lane, he was attacked by the alleged victim, who entered the passenger side of the vehicle and attempted to rob him with the needle, police said.

Barthelmy told police that he hit the gas and the alleged victim fell out of the car and was run over, Cpt. Fuller said in a statement.  Barthelmy also told police that the victim was his friend.

Barthelmy was arrested and charged with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, leaving the scene of an accident with personal injury, using a motor vehicle without authority, operating to endanger, and leaving the scene of an accident with property damage.

The victim’s name has not been released by police because he has not yet been charged. Cpt. Fuller said the investigation is ongoing.

Barthelmy stated that he was homeless but his last known address was on Wheeler Circle in Stoughton, police said. He will be arraigned at Quincy District Court.

Tuesday, June 25 marks the day of the Special U.S. Senate Election in Massachusetts to fill the remainder of former Massachusetts Senator John Kerry's term.

Kerry is now the U.S. Secretary of State. Stoughton resident Mo Cowan is serving as interim Senator until the special general election. 

The Candidates (as listed on the ballot)

• Gabriel Gomez, a businessman and former Navy Seal (Republican)
• Ed Markey, a sitting Congressman (Democrat)
• Richard Heos, third party candidate (Twelve Visions Party)

When Are the Polls Open?

Polls are open Tuesday, June 25 from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m.

Where Do I Vote?

• PRECINCT 1 -- Dawe Elementary School, 131 Pine Street

• PRECINCT 2 -- Jones School, 137 Walnut Street

• PRECINCT 3 -- South Elementary School, 171 Ash Street

• PRECINCT 4 -- Gibbons Elementary School, 235 Morton Street

• PRECINCT 5 -- Gibbons Elementary School, 235 Morton Street

• PRECINCT 6 -- Hansen Elementary School, 1800 Central Street

• PRECINCT 7 -- West Elementary School, 1322 Central Street

• PRECINCT 8 -- O'Donnell Middle School, 211 Cushing Street

Click on the following link to find out specific your precinct:

www.wheredoivotema.com

What Will My Ballot Look Like?

Click on the following link: 6-25-13 SPECIMEN BALLOT.pdf 

TOWN MEETING ENDS: Well, it took seven nights, but Stoughton's Annual Town Meeting concluded before the first period ended in the Game 6 Stanley Cup match on Monday, June 24, which unfortunately ended up being a loss for the Bruins and a Cup-clinching win for Chicago.

Town Moderator Howard Hansen gaveled the opening of session #7 at 7:28 p.m., and about 70 minutes later, the nineteen remaining articles had been voted on, and Selectman and Precinct 2 Town Meeting Representative Cynthia Walsh made the motion to dissolve Town Meeting. 

Support for New Police Cruisers

The 90 Town Meeting members present unanimously voted to support two requests by Stoughton Police Chief Paul Shastany.

Members supported a $184,200 article for the purchase of three cruisers and an SUV. The vehicles are driven 24 hours a day, and TM supports yearly replacement of part of the police department's fleet.

Members also supported a $16,000 article to replace the carpeting at the Stoughton Police station. 

Changes to Town's Dog Bylaws

A long and detailed article from Stoughton Animal Control Officer Michael Gormaley passed on a voice vote.

Gormaley said that the modification of Chapter 78 of the Stoughton bylaws was intended to "reinforce the law to match with the State."

If you have a messy animal don't worry. The law, in part, reads, "No person shall lead or drive any horse, goat, swine or neat animal upon any sidewalk so as to interfere with the convenient use of the same by pedestrians," and "No person shall own or keep in the Town any dog which by biting, excessive barking, howling, or in any other manner, disturbs the quiet of the public."

It also details the methods of seizure, impounding, muzzling, confinement, and fees.

Basically, three changes to the bylaws were approved.

The first, is the replacing of "Dog Officer" with "Animal Control Officer" when the position is mentioned in the bylaws.

Secondly, and most importantly, the elimination of Section 11 of the law, which was a muzzling requirement for any American Staffordshire Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier, or Bull Terrier.

Under new state law, no blanket condemnation of certain breeds is allowed, thus the need to update the town law. (Their feelings may be hurt, and hopefully, they're "neat.") 

And, finally, the fine for a dog running at large was increased from $50 to $60. The fines for any other violations remain at $50.  

Funding for Future Town Building Projects

Town Meeting supported the creation by the Board of Selectmen of a Capital Reserve for Future Building Projects Stabilization Fund.

Initially, $1,251,792 was inserted in the fund. It will be used as "seed money" for any future town building projects.

In the coming years there could be projects to construct a library renovation, new fire station or public safety facility, and one or more school buildings. Town officials stressed that this fund would not pay for these projects in full, but is a start in saving some money to be able to pay for some of the costs.  

To utilize the funds, 2/3 of Town Meeting members will need to approve the transfer.

Additionally, $294.02 was deposited into the town's Stabilization Fund. (That one will really impress Moody's!)

Collective Bargaining 

Selectman Chairman John Anzivino spoke for the seven articles for funding of collective bargaining.

He dismissed articles for Collective Bargaining for Superior Police Officers Local 400 and Library Staff Local 4928. Both of those unions had already reached agreement with the town, and their contract funds were included in the FY 2014 town budget.

Anzivino also made motions to "postpone indefinitely" collective bargaining funds for Town Hall Employees Association, Stoughton Professional/Administration Union, Police Patrolman's Association, Local 1512 Firefighters, and Public Works Association.

None of those unions have settled with the town. If, and when they do come to agreement, a Special Town Meeting will need to be called to transfer the funds to pay for the contracts, or it will be done at the next annual Town Meeting.

Odds & Ends

Three articles recommended by the Town Code Publication Committee were necessary, but not too exciting. However, since Town Moderator Howard Hansen chairs the Town Code Publications Committee, Precinct 2 Town Meeting member and Deputy Moderator Bob Mullen took the gavel for the passing of the three articles, which concerned publication of town codes, and zoning by-law re-codification and re-captioning. 

Town Meeting voted 95-5 to update the zoning by-laws by changing the flood hazard, wetlands, and watershed districts to comply with state and federal regulations.

Building Commissioner Tom McGrath said "the town is playing catch up. We needed to revise our flood maps and update the flood hazard, wetlands and watershed for the DCR. Town Counsel Brian Riley negotiated the necessary wording with DCR attorneys. In this way, residents can be covered by flood hazard insurance." 

Articles on granting seniors tax breaks, proposed by Town Meeting members Ed DeFelice and Peter Ventresco were withdrawn by DeFelice. "Peter had knee surgery and we weren't able to prepare for Town Meeting," he explained. 

QUOTE OF THE NIGHT: From DeFelice to Hansen: "Mr. Moderator, through you, to you." 

GET WELL WISHES: to Town Assessor Joseph Gibbons, who broke his hip playing soccer with his son.

CONDOLENCES: to Town Meeting member Arnold Smith on the loss of his beloved wife of 55 years, Delores. Funeral Service is 7 p.m. on June 26 at Sheehan Funeral Home. Wake is 5-7 p.m. that night. 

A Fond Farewell 

On a personal note, this was my last Town Meeting after over two decades in Precinct 2, three as Chairman. I also served the full nine year term on the Finance Committee, three as Vice Chair. I will miss sitting at Town Meeting, and having a voice in the process. Though I am moving living quarters, I'll still be covering the events in my adopted hometown of Stoughton.

***

Having a Garage or Yard Sale? Share the details here to be added to our interactive map of sales.

Later this week we'll show you a map of sales in the area. This map shows you sales in several Boston neighborhoods. You can also add your sale to your local Patch by clicking on it below:

Stoughton Patch

Sharon Patch

Walpole Patch

Wrentham Patch

Attleboro Patch

Canton Patch

Dedham Patch

Easton Patch

Foxborough Patch

Mansfield Patch

Norton Patch

Norwood Patch

Seekonk-Swansea Patch

Stoughton Patch

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The following is a release from the Stoughton Public Schools Music Department:

The annual Flag Day Celebration was celebrated with songs and poetry readings at the Dawe Elementary School on Friday, June 14 at 1:30 in the afternoon.  

The weather miraculously cleared and the event was held outdoors by the flagpole.  

Each grade level performed several patriotic songs and read poetry.  Dawe School principal Mr. Barner also gave a lot of fun facts about the flag to the school.  

Under the direction of music teacher Mrs. D’Angelo, the entire school sang all of the traditional patriotic music such as Star Spangled Banner, America, America the Beautiful, and God Bless America.  

This celebration is a culminating activity for the study of America through song and readings.  It is a wonderful event for the whole school to participate in.  

Pictured in the media gallery is the third grade class that made their “Yankee Doodle Hats”. They also performed with their recorders and sang at the celebration.

After serving as chair for the 2011-2012 school year, the gavel has been passed back to Joyce Husseini, who was unanimously elected chair of the Stoughton School Committee for the 2013-2014 school year.

Deborah Sovinee served as the chair of the School Committee this past school year, 2012-2013, with Husseini serving as vice chair.

The School Committee started its Monday meeting, held in the School Committee Room prior to the start of Town Meeting, with its annual reorganization exercises. 

George Dolinsky nominated Husseini for chair, with Sovinee seconding the nomination. There were no other nominations, with Husseini receiving support from the entire board. 

Sovinee then nominated Dolinsky for vice chair, with Dr. Carol Brown seconding the nomination. There were no other nominations, with Dolinsky receiving support from the entire board. 

"Stay healthy please," Dolinsky joked.

"I'm honored to be considered," Dolinsky added after the meeting.

In an email Sovinee said that after a year of accomplishment, she was "happy to turn the gavel over" to Husseini.

"I think that every organization profits from a change in leadership and direction," Sovinee wrote. "The School Committee accomplished a lot this year with a very successful town meeting and new initiatives, successful application to the MSBA and a fabulous Program of Study at SHS. It was also a very difficult year with several terrible tragedies. I did my best and am happy to turn the gavel over to Joyce Husseini's very competent hands."

Husseini, who was reelected to a second three-year term in the April 2013 Town Election, becomes chair for the second time in her tenure on the School Committee. She wrote in an email:

"I am fortunate to work on a committee comprised of hard working professionals who have the best interest of our children and community at heart."

Husseini wasted little time in setting goals for the year ahead. 

"I look forward to a second opportunity to serve as Chair.  Having the benefit of serving in this position before, and with a few more years of experience on the board, I see a few areas where I would like to focus my attention to create a more streamlined process for the business of the board and better defined roles and responsibilities for our members," she wrote. 

"I would like to see a more formal subcommittee structure for our board that allows all of our members to contribute more productively, and to take advantage of their backgrounds and strengths," Husseini added. 

"I will work on providing transparency in the board's operations and better access to information for the public," she continued. 

"We have had success this past year in working with focus groups on specific topics and I would like to see an increase in these types of forums so that we can better respond to the needs of the community."

She said "a well functioning board that focuses on advancing student learning through its decision making frees up our professional staff to focus on their jobs." 

Husseini also complimented Sovinee. 

"I would like to thank Ms. Sovinee for her work as chair this past year.  She has devoted countless hours and has immersed herself in the complexities of the MSBA building process and the DESE educator evaluation requirements.  Her work on these and other issues has been tremendous in helping the board move forward."

The Stoughton School Committee is comprised of Husseini (chair), Dolinsky (vice chair), Sovinee, Brown and Dr. Erdem Ural. 

It's been a long road to the Senate for Ed Markey, but the road finally came to a successful end for the longtime Congressman Tuesday night.

Markey, a Democrat who has represented Malden and surrounding communities since 1976, beat Republican Cohasset businessman and former U.S. Navy SEAL Gabriel Gomez in the election Tuesday.

Markey's party at the Park Plaza Hotel in Boston's Back Bay was a raucous one for local and state Democrats who could revel in a special election victory after losing their last such race in 2010.

He thanked his opponent and said that while they disagreed on issues they both "love the state of Massachusetts and love the United States of America."

Gomez, speaking to his supporters gathered at the Seaport Hotel, said that he called Markey with congratulations shortly after the race was called and that they had a "very productive talk."

"I wish him nothing but the best," Gomez said.

Markey was thankful of supporters who knocked on doors over the weekend in sweltering heat to get people out to vote Tuesday.

"Regardless of how you voted, I say to you tonight, this is your seat in the United States Senate," Markey said.

Gomez framed his concession speech with the story of his parents, who immigrated from Columbia in 1964, and their decision to remain in the United States and raise their son. He went on to the Naval Academy, the NAVY SEALs and Harvard Business School.

"I love this county with the bottom of my heart," Gomez said. "I will continue to fight for my country. I'm going to ensure we have a strong, safe America."

Gomez did not hold back on his criticism of what he called the "Democratic machine," and though he apologized several times for "coming up short," his supporters shouted that he had nothing to apologize for, being a Republican in Massachusetts.

"Sometimes you face overwhelming force," Gomez said. "I mean, we were massively overspent."

"But in the face of this adversity," he continued, "we could not have fought a better fight."

Markey, meanwhile, said he wants to be a leader on the issues of climate change, clean energy, gun control and making college affordable for all students among other ideas.

"I want what you want, a 21st Century that is more educated, more healthy, more prosperous and more fair than the 20th Century was," Markey said. "I will honor the vote that you gave that makes it possible for me to stand here tonight as your next United States Senator."

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ORIGINAL STORY: The Associated Press projects Democratic nominee Edward Markey will win Tuesday's U.S. Senate special election in Massachusetts. The wire service called the race after 9 p.m. Tuesday night, with over 75 percent of the vote tallied.

Markey, a U.S. congressman from Malden since 1976, defeated his Republican challenger, Cohasset businessman and former U.S. Navy SEAL Gabriel Gomez in the race.

Markey will take the seat formerly held by U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, who resigned the seat earlier this year.

Patch will have more, including pictures and video, from the Markey and Gomez election night parties in Boston later this evening.