CLASSES
Ballroom dancing classes
The Plymouth Recreation Department is offering ballroom dancing classes taught by Richard Horblit in September and November, in the Memorial Hall auditorium. Call the Plymouth Recreation Department at 508-747-1620, ext. 137, or Richard Horblit at 508-209-0570 for information, or visit www.myrecdept.com/ma/Plymouth.
Foxtrot, beginners 1: The foxtrot will have you dancing around on the floor on your first lesson. A variety of patterns will give you the tools to dance easily and gracefully. No experience needed. Wednesdays, Oct. 8, 15, 22 and 29, from 7 to 7:55 p.m. Cost is $120 per couple or $60 per single.
Rumba and cha-cha, beginners 2: Learn to dance to the wonderful Latin rhythms of rumba and cha-cha. You will be ready for crowded nightclubs or larger ballroom dance floors. Open to fast learners without prior experience, and those with basic rumba and cha-cha experience. Wednesdays, Oct. 8, 15, 22, 29, from 8 to 8:55 p.m. Cost $120 per couple, $60 per single.
Slow dance for nightclubs: Ever want to be able to get up on the spur of the moment and comfortably dance to slow, romantic music? This class is for you. No experience needed. Wednesdays, Nov. 12 and 19, Dec. 3, 10 and 17, from 7 to 7:55 p.m. Cost $100 per couple, $50 per single.
Waltz and tango, beginners 2: Add new steps while developing your dancing skills. Open to fast learners without prior experience, or those with basic waltz and tango experience. Wednesdays, Nov. 12 and 19, Dec. 3, 10 and 17, from 8 to 8:55 p.m. Cost $100 per couple, $50 per single.
Plymouth Guild for the Arts
The Plymouth Guild for the Arts is at 11 North St. in Plymouth. Classes are taught by experienced, talented instructors and are offered for all ages. A full list of all classes can be seen in the Guild’s newsletter, available at the Guild and at the public library, or on the Guild’s Web site, plymouthguild.org. To register for a class, call the Guild at 508-746-7222 or go to the Guild’s office at the Plymouth Center for the Arts, 11 North St. in downtown Plymouth.
Farmers’ market at Courthouse Green
In addition to the Thursday farmers’ market at Stephens Field, there is a second Plymouth farmers’ market this summer: Saturdays, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., through October, at 1820 Courthouse Green on Court Street. Visit www.plymouthfarmersmarket.org for details. The schedule of performers is as follows.
Oct. 18: Sherry Malone, singer/songwriter; Oct. 25: (Pumpkin Festival) The Harper and the Minstrel.
Farmers’ market at Stephens Field
The Plymouth farmers’ market at Stephens Field is Thursdays from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m., June 19 through October. Check www.plymouthfarmersmarket.org for details. The schedule of performers is as follows. Oct. 9: Sherry Malone, singer/songwriter; Oct. 16: Shelley Otis, folk harpist; Oct. 30: The Harper and the Minstrel.
Urgent charitable appeal
As winter is fast approaching, the Plymouth Woman’s Club is asking your help now for charity. The need to raise funds is even greater this year due to the rise in heating costs and the price of gasoline. The Plymouth Woman’s Club sponsors Chrissy’s Charity, an organization founded in April 2008 by Jane Weston in memory of her daughter, Christine (Weston) Ruemker. Weston and her daughter Brenda collect any type of jewelry; new, used, old and broken, rosaries, medals, beads, small religious items, small craft items and buttons. They repair, restore and redesign these items for sale. They started selling in May and raised nearly $2,000 by September. All proceeds were donated to St. Mary’s charities, homeless shelters, food pantries and families in need. Proceeds from future sales will be donated to the Plymouth Area Coalition for the Homeless, shelters, victims of domestic abuse, food pantries and St. Mary’s charities. Items may be mailed to Jane Weston at 4 Eaton Way, Plymouth, MA 02360; or Brenda Cretinon at 36 Second Brook, Kingston, MA 02364. Call Weston at 508-746-6095 or Cretinon at 781-585-8954 with any questions.
Fall Frenzy Craft Fair
Saturday, Oct. 11, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., there will be a Fall Frenzy Craft Fair at the American Legion Post 40 on Federal Furnace Road, with lots of crafts, food and fun. For tables, call Patty at 508-746-9435.
This is a Women’s Auxiliary Unit 40 benefit. Proceeds will support scholarships and activities for veterans and their families.
Kayla’s Beat Goes On, a 5K walk/run fundraiser to benefit cardiovascular services at Jordan Hospital, will be Saturday, Oct. 18, starting and finishing by the large tent near Jordan Hospital’s main entrance off Obery Street. Registration is at 8:30 a.m.; race start 10 a.m. Kayla Richards, a radiology department employee at the hospital, died tragically March 7, 2006, at a local fitness club at the age of 22. Kayla’s Bill was signed into law Jan. 3, 2007, requiring that Mass. health clubs have an automatic external defibrillator on site and their staff appropriately trained on its use. For details and registration visit www.jhclub.org.
Toys for Tots motorcycle run
A motorcycle run to benefit Toys For Tots will be held Sunday, Oct. 19. Sign-in is at 10 a.m. at the old WalMart parking lot on Route 3A in North Plymouth; leaving at 11 a.m. Nice ride through Plymouth, Carver, Wareham, ending at the Plymouth Lodge of Elks on Long Pond Road. Admission is a new unwrapped toy (no stuffed animals, please!) or a WalMart gift card ($10 minimum). Cash donations by check also accepted.
4-H holiday food drive
Plymouth County Extension and the 4-H Program have organized a 4-H Food Drive for the upcoming holiday season in Plymouth County. According to Molly Vollmer, 4-H Extension Educator, the Plymouth County Extension 4-H Program has teamed up with the South Shore Community Action Council to collect nonperishable food items and donations for the SSCAC food pantry. This is a countywide community service project and it is hoped that residents and organizations of Plymouth County will help contribute to this worthwhile cause. Plymouth County 4-H volunteers and 4-H members are currently out collecting food for those in need. Plymouth County 4-H encourages all 4-H clubs to actively participate in various community service projects throughout the year. If you would like, you may donate food for another family or make a monetary donation. For monetary donations make your check payable to “Plymouth County 4-H” and write “Food Drive” on the memo line. Send to Plymouth County Extension, 266 High St., Hanson, MA 02341. For information on this service project or the Plymouth County 4-H Program, call Extension Educator Molly Vollmer at 781-293-3541 or e-mail plyctyext@mindspring.com.
Drop off your donated goods of at one of the following locations by Oct. 20:
·Plymouth County Commissioner’s Office, 11 South Russell St., Plymouth; Mon.-Fri., 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
·Plymouth County Registry of Deeds, 50 Obery St., Plymouth; 508-830-9200; Mon.-Thurs., 7:45 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Fri. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
·Plymouth County Extension Office, 266 High St., Hanson; 781-293-3541; Mon.-Fri., 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
·UMass Extension Nutrition Education Program, Andrea B. Gulezian, 34 School St., Mezzanine, Brockton;
·East Middleboro 4-H Club House, 183 Thompson St. (Route 105), Middleboro
·Weir River Farm, Meg Riley, Turkey Hill Lane, Hingham; 781-740-7233; Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Old-fashioned family Halloween
The Plymouth Antiquarian Society will host an old-fashioned family Halloween event at the Harlow Old Fort House, 119 Sandwich St., Plymouth, from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25. Children may decorate a pumpkin, dip a beeswax candle to light it, and visit fortunetellers, witches and spooky storytellers in the Harlow homestead. Cookies and cider served. Suitable for ages 4 and older. Costumes welcome. Admission is $6 per person. Children must be accompanied by an adult. All proceeds benefit the historic preservation efforts of the Plymouth Antiquarian Society. For information call 508-746-0012.
Plymouth High Schools Marching Band
Saturday, Nov. 1: The third annual One Stop Christmas Shopping and Holiday Craft Fair to benefit the Plymouth High Schools Marching Band will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at St. Peter Parish Center, Memorial Drive, Plymouth. For information call Marcia Brightman at 508-888-4459.
Sunday, Nov. 23: From 6 to 9 p.m. at the Independence Mall in Kingston, there will be a discount shopping event to benefit Plymouth High Schools Marching Band. Purchase a coupon in advance from any band member and enjoy an evening of discounted shopping, private shopping time, food and entertainment. For information call Marcia Brightman at 508-888-4459.
Wednesday, Dec. 3: Plymouth High Schools Marching Band’s annual concert will be held at 7 p.m. at Memorial Hall in Plymouth. Enjoy an evening of holiday music and show tunes. Admission to the concert by donation. For information call Marcia Brightman at 508-888-4459.
There will be an Autumn Crop event from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8, sponsored by the Women’s Auxiliary Unit 40, at the American Legion Post 40, 199 Federal Furnace Road (508-746-0009). The cost is $35 and preregistration required. Includes continental breakfast, lunch, light supper, snacks, lots of prizes and fun. Send check or money order to Patty Cavicchi, 105 Federal Furnace Road, Plymouth, MA 02360. Proceeds towards supporting veterans and their families, college scholarships, and children’s programs. Questions? Call Linda Greenwood at 508-747-2179.
From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, Plymouth Chapter 163 Order of Easter Star will hold a Holiday Faire at the Masonic Lodge, 116 South Meadow Road, Plymouth. Take the family and purchase holiday baked goods. Specializing in Thanksgiving pies. There will be crafts and vendors, basket raffles, kids games and a snack bar. Contact Joan Roulias for more information at 508-224-3403.
The 19th annual Festival of Trees, hosted by the Friends of Cranberry Hospice, will take place Dec. 5 to 7 at Plimoth Plantation. More than 50 Christmas trees are spectacularly decorated by area families, organizations and individuals. Three consecutive days provide holiday entertainment, including the Tanglewood Marionettes, visits from Santa, a cocktail reception and unique gift shop. All proceeds benefit Cranberry Hospice, an organization that has provided hospice and palliative care locally for more than 25 years. Open to the public: Friday, Dec. 5, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, Dec. 6-7, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. General admission: $5adults; $4 seniors; $2 children under 12.
The Tree of Lights is a spectacular 15-foot tree trimmed with hundreds of white lights and candles in memory or honor of someone special. Donations can be made for memorial candles ($25 each), or lights ($5 each); call 781-934-7778. The Hospice Tree is decorated with distinctive ornaments in memory of hospice patients who have passed away in the preceding year. The Tree of Hope is a beautiful living tree that is decorated with name-inscribed ribbons for individuals who have survived serious illness such as cancer.
Friday, Dec. 5: Family Fun Night. The Tanglewood Marionettes, 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. shows; $10 includes festival admission. Tickets available in advance only at Olivia Rose in Marshfield, Westwinds Bookshop and Once Upon a Time in Duxbury, ProSports in Kingston and The Cranberry House in Plymouth.
Saturday, Dec. 6: Cocktail party at 6 p.m., reservations only.
Sunday, Dec. 7: Hospice service of remembrance, 3 p.m., Duxbury Performing Arts Center.
For information or to volunteer during the festival, call 781-934-7778 or visit www.cranberryhospice.org/festival.
Tickets for Polar Express
Tickets went on sale Sept. 10 for the Dec. 13 South Shore Polar Express. Tickets must be purchased in advance and will not be on sale the day of the event. As the train heads to the “North Pole” Chris Van Allsburg’s story, The Polar Express, is read while passengers enjoy special treats. Once at the North Pole, Santa and his elves board the train and greet the children, collecting their Santa letters and listening to their special requests. Children and all the “young at heart” are encouraged to wear pajamas over their clothes. Children will find out the meaningful gift the boy in the story chooses, and will receive one as they leave the train.
The Plymouth Housing Authority and Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority host the holiday Magical Journey to the North Pole with four trips throughout the day, Dec. 13, boarding at the Kingston MBTA commuter rail station at 11:45 a.m., 1:30, 4 and 7:10 p.m.
Tickets are $20, cash and money orders only, and may be purchased at the Independence Mall, Kingston, Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., starting Sept. 10, until sold out. For details call 508-746-2105, ext. 300. This is a fundraiser for the social service programs of the Plymouth Housing Authority.
Plymouth South athletes fundraiser
The Pizza Factory and the Plymouth South High Athletic Boosters are teaming to raise much-needed funds for Plymouth South High School athletics. Ten percent of the money raised through pizza sales on the first Tuesday of every month at both of Plymouth’s Pizza Factory restaurants will be donated to the PSHS Boosters general fund. The purchaser simply needs to identify himself or herself as a supporter of Plymouth South High Athletics to earmark the 10 percent donation.
Pizza Factory has locations in Plymouth off Exit 5 (41 Home Depot Dr, 508-747-7227) and Exit 6 (4 Pilgrim Hill Road, 508-747-7474). Visit Pizza Factory on line at www.pizzafactory.com.
The Plymouth South High Athletic Boosters organization was formed by interested parents of interscholastic athletes for the purpose of providing items that the school athletic budget is unable to. The organization has three fairly simple yet very important goals: To encourage interest in and provide support to all of its interscholastic athletic teams, to promote the health and welfare of its student-athletes, and to recognize and reward the student-athletes. Funds are raised through a variety of activities including seasonal fundraisers, running concessions, and business sponsorship.
The family and friends of Katherine “Katie” Mahoney have held another successful “For the Love of Katie” book drive. Donations were made to the Plymouth Public Library in Katie’s memory. Proceeds from the book drive were used to expand the children’s collection at the Manomet Branch Library. Last year’s drive allowed the library to purchase 28 new books for the children’s section, combined with previous drives, this brings the total to 60 new books. The book drive is held between August and December each year.
One of Katie’s favorite pastimes was reading, so the family thought this would be a wonderful way to create a living memorial to her, and to contribute to the community she loved. Katie was a lifelong resident of Manomet and a 1989 graduate of Plymouth South High School. She died suddenly in December of 2004, of an undiagnosed heart problem, after collapsing at work. She was the daughter of Jack and Sue Mahoney and sister of Kelly Murray.
Anyone who would like to participate in this year’s book drive may send a donation to the Plymouth Public Library Corporation, c/o Julie Vaitkus, 132 South St., Plymouth, MA 02360; or to Kelly Murray, P.O. Box 354, Manomet, MA 02345. Please note “In Memory of’ “Katherine Lynn Mahoney” (Katie) on your donation. The family appreciates each and every contributor for making this living memorial a success, and says those who have participated have touched their hearts in a special way.
Plymouth Cordage Historical Society
The Plymouth Cordage Historical Society will resume its monthly meetings and programs at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 8, in the museum at the Tower Entrance of Cordage Park in Plymouth. This first meeting will feature reminiscences by longtime North Plymouth residents of growing up in the various neighborhoods within the village, such as Seaside, what they all had in common, and what was particular to each neighborhood. Anyone wishing to contribute or just to listen is more than welcome.
The Plymouth Garden Club will meet Wednesday, Oct. 8, at 1 p.m. at the Chiltonville Congregational Church on River Street. This is their annual Craft, Plant and Bake Auction. Jean Ravinski will be the auctioneer. Each member should bring at least one item to be auctioned. Please bring fall flowers and foliage for horticulture. Guests are welcome. For information regarding membership, visit the Web site www.plymouthgardenclub.com.
The Plymouth Garden Club usually meets the second Wednesday of the month at Chiltonville Church, 6 River St., at 1 p.m. For membership details, call Susan Peck at 508-801-2684 or send e-mail to her at usualsuspeck@comcast.net. For club information visit the Web site www.plymouthgardenclub.org. Guest fee for non-members is $3.
Garden Club officers for 2008-2009: president, Patricia Parker; first vice president/programming, Coletta Candini; second vice president/membership, Jean Dobachesky; recording secretary, Tina Capucci; corresponding secretary, Carol Pakainis; treasurer, Donna Olsson; assistant treasurer, Jane Bishop; auditor, Joanne Mank; nominating committee chairman, Judy MacDonald.
Evening Garden Club of Plymouth
The next meeting is from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 8, at the Loring Center. The program, “Turning Your Garden Photographs Into a Masterpiece,” will be presented by Sally Fiore, local photographer and artist. She will demonstrate how to take one of your own garden photos and change it into a canvas by using the giclee method. Members are requested to take a favorite photo for sharing. It can be a special flower, a view of your garden or a garden you have visited.
The club meets at the Loring Center in North Plymouth the second Wednesday of every month from 7 to 9 pm. The guest fee is $5 per meeting ($8 for special meetings). Annual membership for the club year July 1 to June 30 is $25.
Call club president, Linda Souza, at 508-746-8333 or visit the Web site www.eveninggardenclub.org for more information.
Membership is open to all women who live in Plymouth and surrounding towns. Anyone interested in learning more about the club is invited to attend a luncheon meeting and should call Mary Keating at 508-763-0085.
Cranberry Shores Chorus
Cranberry Shores Chorus of Hyannis invites singers from the South Shore to join them in their “Harmonize the Holidays” program. The award winning, all-women ensemble is inviting women who enjoy a cappella music to learn some holiday songs and then perform with the chorus during the Christmas holidays. Some of the performance venues planned so far include the Highfield Hall in Falmouth and Heritage Plantation in Sandwich. Rehearsals began at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 7, at the Federated Church of Hyannis on Main Street, and continue every Tuesday through the holiday season. Reading music is not required and learning media will be provided at no charge. Experience the thrill of singing barbershop harmony, meet new friends, and improve your singing technique as well. Rehearsals begin each week with a 30-minute group voice lesson and vocal warm-up. Call Dee at 508-778-0109 for more information, or you may also visit www.cranberryshores.org.
North Plymouth Neighborhood Watch meeting
The next North Plymouth Neighborhood Watch meeting will be 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 16, at Hedge School.
The Plymouth Lodge 2485, Loyal Order of Moose, 739 State Road, Manomet, is a fraternal and service organization of men and women dedicated to caring for the young and old, bringing communities closer together and celebrating life. Call lodge administrator, Francis Kuhn, 508-224-2276, or visit the site www.mooseintl.org for information.
The Moose will hold a community blood drive from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 19, in their lodge at 739 State Road in Manomet. Walk-in donations are accepted, or you can schedule an appointment through the American Red Cross Web site, www.givelife.org or by calling 800-GIVELIFE (800-448-3543). The American Red Cross has organized the drive, and the Moose members in Plymouth have volunteered their facility to hold the blood drive in the Manomet section of Plymouth. This will be the third blood drive at the lodge this year. For information about the Moose fraternity, visit www.mooseintl.org or call the Plymouth Moose Lodge administrator Francis Kuhn at 508-224-2276.
Plymouth Fragment Society
The Plymouth Fragment Society will hold its annual meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21, at First Baptist Church, 41 Westerly Road, Plymouth. Refreshments will be served.
The Plymouth Fragment Society helps Plymouth residents in need get back on their feet. To contact the society, to join or make a donation, send mail to P.O. Box 6386, Plymouth, MA 02362. The board of the Plymouth Fragment Society meets the first Tuesday of every month to review applications from Plymouth residents.
Cranberry Shores Chorus auditions
Cranberry Shores Chorus rehearses every Tuesday from 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., at the Federated Church in Hyannis. All women from the South Shore are welcome. Go to www.cranberryshores.org for further info. Call 508-778-0109 for an appointment.
An ACC Grass Roots Cribbage Club has started at the Middleborough Elks Club. Play starts promptly at 7 p.m. Thursdays. It is recommended you arrive at 6:45 p.m. Enjoy playing and meeting new friends, competing on a local level yet compete on a national basis. For information call Ray Cook at 508-908-9443 or David Bowen at 508-224-2051. For information on the ACC visit www.cribbage.org. Also, if anyone is interested in learning how to play cribbage, classes will be hosted in the local area. For classes information, call Bowen at 508-224-2051. All ages are welcome to attend the classes.
Manomet Center for Conservation Sciences
Manomet Center for Conservation Sciences, 81 Stage Point Road, Manomet. Call Marianna Mele at 508-224-6521, or e-mail mmele@Manomet.org for information or visit the site www.manomet.org for information about the center.
Manomet Mystery Riders
The Manomet Mystery Riders, a family-oriented motorcycle club, meets Sundays and Thursdays (weather permitting) for rides to mystery locations. Runs originate from Gellar’s, Route 3A in Manomet, at noon Sundays and 7 p.m. Thursdays. The first Wednesday of the month, the group holds a meeting at 7:30 p.m. in the John Alden Sportsman Club, off Beaver Dam Road in Manomet. Visit manometmysteryriders.com for information or call the Ride Hotline at 508-224-5267.
New Beginnings for Singles
Plymouth New Beginnings for Singles is a nonprofit, nondenominational organization offering support and social activities for single, separated, divorced and widowed adults. Meetings are held every Tuesday from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Plymouth United Methodist Church, 29 Carver Road, Plymouth. Call Fay at 508-746-4523, the church at 508-746-1642 or visit www.PlymouthNewBeginnings.com for information.
Non-custodial parent support group
This group, the moms or dads non-custodial parents support group, meets at the Manomet Public Library, 12 Strand Ave., the first and third Mondays of the month, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Seeking to help divorced moms or dads with custody and family issues and at any stage of your case, free. This is a “Parents Helping Parents” group. Kids need both parents. For information, call 508-863-2486 or 617-SAD-DADS or visit www.fatherhoodcoalition.org.
The Plymouth No Place for Hate committee meets the second Thursday of each month in Town Hall, 11 Lincoln St., at 6:30 p.m. The committee of volunteers appointed by the board of selectmen addresses issues of prejudice in Plymouth. The committee appreciates community and business support. Call the Plymouth Board of Selectmen at 508-747-1620, ext. 100, or send e-mail to plymouthNPFH@gis.net for information.
Old Colony Young Marines
The Old Colony Young Marines is a national youth education and service program. Membership is open to boys and girls ages 8 through 18. Meetings are held every Tuesday, form 5:45 p.m. to 8 p.m., at the Boys and Girls Club of Plymouth, 9 Resnik Road, Plymouth. Information may be obtained at the Web site www.oldcolonyyoungmarines.com.
Order of Rainbow for Girls
The Plymouth Assembly #86 International Order of Rainbow for Girls, open to girls aged 11 to 20 years, meets at 7 p.m. the second and fourth Thursdays of the month at the Plymouth Masonic Lodge, 116 South Meadow Road. There is also a pledge group open to girls aged 9 to 11. For information, call Carol Machado at 508-746-9418, or e-mail plymassembly86@aol.com.
Plymouth Antiquarian Society
The Plymouth Antiquarian Society is offering a limited edition digital reprint of a rare bird’s-eye view map of Plymouth, originally published about 1882 by O.H. Bailey & Company of Bridgewater and Boston. Original copies of this early aerial map are scarce, perhaps because it includes a notable mistake and was never widely circulated. The National Forefathers Monument was still unfinished when the map was first printed, and the engraver included an image of the statue that was not entirely accurate: The central figure of Faith is drawn with the wrong arm aloft. Despite the error, the map otherwise offers an extremely accurate and detailed view of historic Plymouth from Nelson Street to the outskirts of Chiltonville. The map was based on actual photographs taken from a balloon in the days before airplane flight. Details of individual buildings, including homes, shops, churches, and factories, are visible. This new small-run edition was produced exclusively for the Antiquarian Society by Reynolds Dewalt of New Bedford from a precise digital scan. The 24” x 30” duotone reproduction is printed on 100# archival quality paper, suitable for long-term framing. Each reproduction print is numbered. Prints are available for purchase at $100 each at the Hedge House Museum, 126 Water St. For more information, or to order a copy, contact the society at 508-746-0012 or e-mail pasm@verizon.net.
Elimination of blindness throughout the world is the mission of Lions Clubs International. To learn how your participation can benefit the community, join the local Plymouth Lions Club. For additional information, contact Chip Anderson, membership chairman, at 508-746-8777 or chip@powderhornpress.com. Meetings are held every Thursday at the StoneForge Restaurant on Warren Cove (Route 3A) at 7 p.m. All proceeds from fundraising projects support the Massachusetts Lions Eye Research Fund, Perkins School for the Blind and local needs.
This year’s list of local donations included the Plymouth Boys & Girls Club, the Jordan Hospital Memorial Hall Building Fund, Cranberry Hospice, Plymouth Housing Authority, Project Arts, the Handicapped Persons Sponsorship Association, July Fourth Plymouth, the Old Colony YMCA, Plymouth Little League, eye exams and free glasses for needy children and adults and many other local and regional causes.
The Lions’ motto, “We serve,” is symbolized in the community by local fundraising activity like the Lions Radio Days (WATD), Lions golf tournament, car wash, holiday raffle, pancake breakfast and many other efforts supporting Lions charities.
The Rotary Club of Plymouth was chartered in 1940 and today, with more than 100 dedicated members, practices the Rotary International motto: “Service Above Self.” Members participate in the club’s annual auction on PACTV over three days each spring. All proceeds support scholarships for local high school graduates, as well as funding important community projects for the Boys & Girls Club, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Jordan Hospital, Plymouth Public Library, local historical societies and many other local programs. The Rotary Club meets every Monday at 12:15 p.m. at the John Carver Inn on Summer Street in Plymouth. For more information or to join Rotary, contact club president Leon Lopes at 508-747-5800 or go to www.plymouthrotary.com.
Sustainable Plymouth holds meetings the third Thursday of the month at Plymouth Public Library, 132 South St., at 7 p.m. The public is welcome. Enter by the library’s side door. The goals of Sustainable Plymouth are: to increase awareness regarding sustainability; to play an active role in implementing and developing more use of renewable energy, increased recycling, and sustainable practices; and to support stewardship of our natural resources. Members of the community are encouraged to join the group. For more information, e-mail Jim@sustainableplymouth.org.
The newly formed Solid Waste Advisory Committee, SWAC, will hold weekly meetings Mondays 7-9 p.m. E-mail vice chair, Linda Benezra, at linda@benezra.net with questions.
The Plymouth Vigil for peace and justice is held every Saturday at noon in Shirley Square, at the top of North Street, weather permitting. The vigils are conducted in silence, with signs stressing the goals of peace and an end to the war in Iraq. New participants who share these goals are welcome. To be included in the e-mail alert list, send an e-mail to tacurtin@verizon.net.
Domestic violence support groups for women are held in Plymouth, Tuesday and Thursday mornings and evenings. Other groups are available. Call South Shore Women’s Resource Center, 508-746-2664 for information. There are also specialized older women services available, including group support.
Pilgrim Festival Chorus
The Pilgrim Festival Chorus, a volunteer, not-for-profit choral group, is encouraging residents throughout the region to join its 2008-2009 season during open auditions at a welcome night. The PFC is an auditioned singing group for men and women, with vocalists of all skill levels, dedicated to the performance of choral music from many genres. In their tenth season, the group typically offers three major choral performances during each year, with smaller volunteer groups often engaging in smaller concerts at local community events. The PFC holds the privilege of current guest chorus for the Plymouth Philharmonic Orchestra’s Holiday Pops program in December. Two other programs are scheduled for November and May, with other plans in the works. Works of composers including Saint Saens, Charpentier and Cherubini are being planned for this season.
For information regarding membership and auditions, contact Richter by calling 781-789-3343 or by e-mailing director@pilgrimfestival.org. For information including this season’s schedule and repertoire, visit the PFC Web site at www.pilgrimfestival.org or call Cyndy Dorchester at 781-447-4865, or Meredith Hutchings at 508-746-5314.
Adoption and Foster Care School Awareness Project
Adoption & Foster Care School Awareness Project is committed to increasing awareness in the schools and in our communities of the special needs of children and families formed through adoption and foster care. Meetings are held the first Tuesday of every month at the Lydia Drake Library, 340 High St., Pembroke, at 7:30 p.m. All parents, educators and interested community members are welcome to ASAP meetings. For information, contact Charlotte Simpson at 781-293-3341 or visit the Web site www.asapmass.org.
Plymouth County Altrusa International Club is a professional women’s group that promotes literacy and other service projects throughout Plymouth County. New members are welcome. For information, contact Susan Leslie, 781-871-3676.
The Genesis Amateur Radio Society is for area residents interested in amateur radio. Call public information officer Tom Hurley at 508-747-6168.
Ancient Order of Hibernians
The Father John Murphy Division of the Ancient Order of Hibernians meets in downtown Plymouth across from Sam Diego’s on Main Street, the first Thursday of every month at 7 p.m. For information, call Tom Whyte at 508-830-9632.
The Cape Cod Mayflower Decorative Artists is a local chapter of the International Society of Decorative Painters. Meetings and workshops are held the third Saturday of the month at the Little Red Schoolhouse, located at the corner of Long Pond and Herring Pond roads, Exit 2, in Cedarville (Plymouth). Call Janet McCauley at 781-331-8329 for details.
America’s Hometown Global War on Terror Blue Star Group gives family members of those serving abroad a chance to network and share experiences and information. Get information about communicating with your family member overseas, mailing packages, where to get Blue Star flags and other supplies, or getting a loved one signed up for monthly packages. Businesses that want to help support the troops with much-needed supplies are especially welcome. For information, call Dot Soucie at 508-224-6608 or 508-224-7701, Bernice Wipfler at 508-833-2324 or Michelle Shea at 508-888-9727.
A book discussion group meets one Monday every month at the Plymouth Public Library, 132 South St., at 6:30 p.m. For details, call Melinda at 781-248-3684 or e-mail Melinda@rainbowhealingarts.net.
Business Network International meets Tuesdays, from 7:30 to 9 a.m. at the Loring Center, 386 Court St., Plymouth. Call 888-314-4264 or visit www.bni.com for details.
The Cape Cod Glass Club is a voluntary not-for-profit chapter of the National American Glass Club. The Cape Cod Chapter meets monthly from October to December and March to June. Activities include formal lectures, informal study sessions and visits to museums and working glassmakers. The club is dedicated to the study and appreciation of glass regardless of the type of period, with emphasis on American glass.
New members from the South Shore area are welcome. Call membership chair, Dorothy Schatz, at 508-428-2141; or program chair Betsy Hewlett, at 508-362-6875.
·Sept. 20 and 21: The club looks forward to participating in the Sandwich Glass Museum’s Cape Cod Glass Show and Sale to be held in the Skylight Room of the Corpus Christi Church in Sandwich.
Citizens for Government Reform
Citizens for Government Reform meets every two weeks to discuss topical matters concerning Plymouth town government. Contact Kenneth Buechs, chairman, with questions, 508-224-8042.
The Pilgrim Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol meets from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays in its new headquarters at Plymouth Airport, 222 South Meadow Road. The Civil Air Patrol promotes aerospace education, provides emergency services to the community and develops leadership qualities in the nation’s youth. Call squadron Commander Robert Yaeger, 508-888-5970, or visit the Web site plymouthcap.org.
Cordage Historical Society
The museum is open to the public from noon to 4 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday. Admission is free. Tours during the week can be arranged by calling Ellen Remlinger at 508-746-7707. The Plymouth Cordage Historical Society holds a meeting the second Wednesday of each month at the Cordage Park Museum, located at 10 Cordage Park Circle, in the tower building. Visit plymouthcordagehistoricalsociety.com for more information.
Democratic Town Committee
The Plymouth Democratic Town Committee meets the fourth Wednesday of every month at 7:30 p.m., at Cordage Park. Enter building 36. The PDTC meets in an office about halfway down the hall on the right. For other committee news and events, visit the Web site at www.plymouthdemocrats.org. For details about movie nights, call Janet at 508-746-9437 or e-mail plimothdtc@lycos.com.
The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) Chapter 1450/Young Eagles meets the third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Plymouth Municipal Airport, 246 South Meadow Road, C-9. All are welcome to join and become part of the sport of aviation. The chapter is dedicated to promoting education and providing recreational activities with an emphasis on Young Eagles (age 8-18) programs. For information, call Dick or Donna at 508-995-9272, Young Eagles coordinator Steve at 508-866-9345 or visit the EAA home page, www.eaa.org or the Young Eagles Web site, www.youngeagles.org. For a free copy of the newsletter, e-mail ehloring@hotmail.com.
The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, Plymouth Lodge #1476, meets at 52 Long Pond Road. Arthur Powers Jr. is the ruler and the secretary is Joseph Scott. Call 508-746-9876 for information.
Explore Historic Plymouth’s purpose is to promote, preserve, and revitalize the downtown and waterfront Plymouth area to allow the district to compete in today’s market as a cultural and historic commercial district and ensure that it will be a thriving community in which to visit, dine, shop, work, and live. Explore Historic Plymouth’s goal is to achieve ongoing downtown revitalization and historic preservation based upon the principles through the comprehensive Main Street Four-Point Approach. It is the goal of Explore Historic Plymouth to be comprised of activists, urban planners, downtown business and building owners, government officials, chambers of commerce, consultants, and many others. Call Deb Falzoi, 508-747-5557, if you have questions, or e-mail info@plymouthdowntown.com or visit www.ExploreHistoricPlymouth.com for details.
FORT is a group of concerned citizens who have formed a subcommittee called Educate Plymouth. Its goal is to inform and educate the residents of Plymouth as to the current status of the high schools’ accreditation/space issue and to implement solutions to rectify the problem. All are welcome. Visit www.educateplymouth.com for more information.
Friends of Ellisville Marsh Inc.
The Friends of Ellisville Marsh Inc. is seeking new members. Anyone interested in joining the more than 100 current members should send a check or money order for $15 to the Friends of Ellisville Marsh Inc., c/o Bob Goldthwaite at 55 Lookout Point Road, Plymouth, MA 02360. Membership forms and other information are available on the organization’s Web site at www.EllisvilleMarsh.org, which also provides information on the Ellisville Marsh restoration project. The special designation of Founding Member is available for a $100 donation. All donations are fully tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
Friends of the Forefathers Monument
The Friends of the Forefathers Monument is raising funds to save the Faith monument. Call Mary Cushing, 508-746-7583, for details.
Friends of Morton Park
The Friends of Morton Park are looking for anyone interested in preserving and protecting this beautiful area. For information, contact Ted Curtin at 508-747-0530, 9 Little Pond Road, Plymouth, MA 02360, e-mail ted@mortonpark.org or visit the Web site www.mortonpark.org.
Grow Smart Plymouth is a grassroots advocacy group that seeks to educate the town’s citizens on smart growth issues and support town leaders who champion a balanced approach to economic development. Members meet the last Wednesday of every month at 7 p.m. in the Little Theater of Plymouth Community Intermediate School on Long Pond Road. E-mail growsmartplymouth@adelphia.net or write to the group at P.O. Box 1416, Plymouth, MA 02362.
Herring Ponds Watershed Association
For details see the new site at www.theherringpondswatershed.org or call Eb or Marleen at 508-833-2136.
Network 4 Success is a networking group for local businesses in the South Shore area. Meeting the first Thursday of each month at Med Spa New England, 2 Main St., 2nd floor, Plymouth, www.medspane.com, 781-422-2294, from 5 to 6 p.m.; and on the third Thursday of each month at Halifax Country Club from noon to 1:30 p.m. Lunch is extra. For information, visit www.network4success.org or e-mail info@network4success.org.
Pilgrim Festival Chorus
The Pilgrim Festival Chorus is a volunteer, not-for-profit choral group. For information, go to www.pilgrimfestival.org or e-mail the chorus at info@pilgrimfestival.org. The Pilgrim Festival Chorus is funded in part by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency, and by grants from the Cultural Councils of Whitman, Halifax and Plymouth, local agencies supported by MCC. For details on the PFC, visit www.pilgrimfestival.org or call Cyndy Dorchester at 781-447-4865 or Meredith Hutchings at 508-746-5314.
PilgrimWatch serves the public interest on issues regarding the Pilgrim nuclear power station. The group offers a wide range of information about Pilgrim for citizens of Plymouth and surrounding towns. Visit www.pilgrimwatch.org or call 781-934-0389 for information.
The Plymouth Aero Club meets in the town hangar at Plymouth Municipal Airport, South Meadow Road, at 6:30 p.m. the last Wednesday of each month. The club promotes aviation safety and education. Newcomers are welcome to join the pre-meeting dinners at $12 per person, or just attend to hear the speakers at 8 p.m. Reserve a place for dinner by calling Sue McManus in advance, 508-888-8425. For information or to request applications contact the Plymouth Aero Club, Plymouth Municipal Airport, 246 South Meadow Road, Plymouth, MA 02360, or send e-mail to pymaeroclub@hotmail.com.
Plymouth Cordage Historical Society
The Plymouth Cordage Historical Society holds a meeting every second Wednesday of the month. Anyone with an interest in cultural diversity and the impact it had on a small but vital corner of Plymouth is invited to attend the meeting of the Plymouth Cordage Historical Society. The museum is located in the Tower Building, Cordage Commerce Center, Route 3A. For information call Ellen Remlinger at 508-746-7707.
The Plymouth chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star meets at 7:45 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month at Plymouth Masonic Lodge, 116 South Meadow Road. Eastern Star is a charitable organization for women with a Masonic affiliation and Master Masons. Contact Doris Rowell, chapter secretary, at 508-224-3411 or visit www.oesplymouth.org for information.
The Plymouth Area Chapter of Hadassah invites all women to learn about this volunteer women’s Jewish organization that touches so many lives, in both Israel and America. The group offers a wide variety of education, social and advocacy programs. For information, contact Myra at 508-965-8810.
The Plymouth Chapter of the Massachusetts Association of Insurance Women, www.maiw.org, meets once a month at Ernie’s Restaurant, 330 Court St., Plymouth 508-746-3444, for networking at 5:30 p.m., business meeting at 6:15 p.m. and dinner at 6:45 p.m. Call Linda Walsh at 508-760-4618 for information on meeting dates or e-mail walshli@rogersgray.com.
Plymouth 1000 is a community group committed to obtaining and disbursing objective information concerning the best use for the 1,000 acres of land owned by the town of Plymouth. Plymouth 1000 meets every second and fourth Tuesday of the month, 7 p.m., at Plymouth South Elementary School, 178 Bourne Road. Executive board members elected to the Plymouth 1000 Committee at its Sept. 25 meeting are: chairman, Helen Hapgood; vice chairman, Oliver Durrell; clerk, JoAnn Salamone; clerk, Nancy Lima. The contact/spokesperson for the committee is Hapgood, who can be reached at 508-759-7354.
Plymouth Rock Stamp Club
The Plymouth Rock Stamp Club, for both experienced and inexperienced collectors, meets the first and third Monday of each month at the Pinehurst Village Club House, 1A Pinehurst Drive, Plymouth. Visitors are welcome. Call 508-747-3975 for information.
The South of Boston Pug Meetup Group is a group of pug owners who meet once a month to exchange information and allow pugs to play together. For information and/or directions, e-mail Sharon at pugpeople@gmail.com or call 508-866-2429.
Sippican Choral Society
The South Coast’s Sippican Choral Society has members from Plymouth to Little Compton. Rehearsals are Mondays, from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., in the Mattapoisett Congregational Church, Reynard Hall, at Church and Mechanic streets in Mattapoisett.
Southeastern Mass. Mineral Club
The Southeastern Massachusetts Mineral Club, a nonprofit organization, meets the second Thursday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at the South Shore Natural Science Center at 48 Jacobs Lane in Norwell.
South Coastal Chapter Order of DeMolay
South Coastal Chapter Order of DeMolay meets at 7:30 p.m. the first and third Thursdays of the month at the Daniel Webster Lodge, 420 Furnace St., Marshfield. DeMolay is an international service organization for young men age 12-21. For information visit the site www.massdemolay.org or call Carol Machado at 508-746-9418.
The South Shore Genealogical Society is open to all South Shore residents. For information, call Lorraine Roberts at 781-871-4356.
South Shore Singles is a club for those ages 45 and up. For information, call 781-331-0021 or visit www.southshoresingles.org.
The 1749 Spooner House, 27 North St., Plymouth, is open to the public through Oct. 7. The hours are 2 to 6 p.m. Thursday and Friday; 9 a.m. to noon Saturday. Admission is $4.50 for adults, $2 for children under 12. The house, built in 1749, was occupied by one family for five generations and is furnished with original family possessions dating from the time of the American Revolution into the 1950s. The last private owner, James Spooner, died in 1954, and left his house to be a museum. The house is owned and operated by the Plymouth Antiquarian Society, which presents a seasonal calendar of special events and programs. For information, call 508-746-0012.
Sustainable Plymouth is an organization of concerned citizens who meet to promote the responsible use of energy and natural resources in Plymouth. Information, education and support are provided to all; expert and novice alike. Meetings are the third Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Plymouth Public Library, 132 South St. The Web site is www.sustainableplymouth.org.
South Shore Soliloquy: The South Shore Soliloquy Toastmasters club meets each Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. at the Kingston library and provides the opportunity for members to master public speaking and learn leadership skills in a friendly, supportive, club environment. Guests are always welcome and do not need to preregister to attend. Visit http://soliloquy.freetoasthost.com or call president, Greg Milewski at 781-934-2053 or e-mail him at gregkicks@aol.com for information.
Middleborough: The Middleboro chapter of Toastmasters is open to anyone over the age of 18 who would like to improve their communication skills. New meeting and time: At the office of Cirelli Foods, 30 Commerce Blvd., Middleborough, every second and fourth Wednesday, 7-8:30 p.m. Call 508-946-8986 or 508-583-2579 for information.
U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps
Gosnold Division and Training Ship Patriot State of the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps has a training program at Mass. Maritime Academy in Buzzards Bay for boys and girls aged 11 to 14 who are interested in nautical or military opportunities. Training takes place Saturdays, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., in the Harrington Building at Mass. Maritime. Call Lt. Cdr. James McLoughlin, 508-759-8606.
Women’s Art Experiment
The Women’s Art Experiment of Plymouth is seeking members for a new all-women’s art symposium. The group will meet once a month in a “salon” type atmosphere to discuss and exhibit art in all media. Membership is free and is open to women of all ages and backgrounds. For more information go to www.womensartexperiment.homestead.com, or e-mail Leslie Allen at allenssend@adelphia.net.
The Plymouth Area Chamber of Commerce (PACC), in partnership with the Ambassador’s Committee and Stoneforge at Bert’s Cove restaurant, conducts Women Mean Business (WMB) networking luncheons. These luncheons provide opportunities for businesswomen to network, promote and expand their businesses within a supportive environment. The PACC looks forward to providing networking opportunities to the businesswomen of the PACC and surrounding communities. For information on the Women Mean Business Networking luncheons or for reservations, contact the Plymouth Area Chamber of Commerce at 508-830-1620. The Chamber serves more than 700 businesses in the towns of Carver, Duxbury, Halifax, Hanson, Kingston, Marshfield, Pembroke, Plympton, and Plymouth. The office, located in Cordage Park, is open Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call 508-830-1620 or visit www.plymouthchamber.com for information about the Chamber.
Plymouth-Carver Class of 1968
Plymouth-Carver High School, Class of 1968, is holding its 40th reunion Nov. 1, at the Beachmoor Inn on Buzzards Bay. Any classmate interested in helping with this event, please call Linda Souza at 508-746-8333, or Linda Luce at 508-224-4352, or Marilyn Colburn at 508-224-3668, or Cathy Pratt at 508-746-4036.
The 40th reunion committee is looking for the address of the following classmates, in order to notify them of the pending event. If anyone can supply an address, notify Cathy Ruemker Pratt at 16 Savery Avenue, Plymouth, or 508-746-4036. D. Boone, L. Bliss, K. Bubbins, A. Bumpus, W. Butterfield, M. Browning, D. Campbell, J. Campbell, R. Carlisle, D. Conrad, R. Cook, R. Cox, M. Curran, S. Dangora, V. Dangora, D. DeCost, K. Dern, R. Disalvatore, S. Donovan, H. Dupuis, J. Edwards, D. Freymouth, J. Garcia, P. Gavoni, H. Gibbs, C. Griffith, M. Haire, J. Hayes, D. Jesse, G. Keller, P. McNeill, P. Morin, W. Neal, N. Neil, L. Neves, E. Nightingale, J. Nutt, R. Nye, A. Nunes, J. Pacheco, D. Pearson, P. Petrell, G. Raposa, N. Rasmussan, E. Reils, M. Rose, C. Roth, D. Ruprecht, R. Silva, M. Stang, J. Truitt, S. Vincent, P. Voght, S. White, J. Williamson.
The Plymouth South High School Class of 1998 10-year reunion is being held Nov. 29 at Southers Marsh in Plymouth at 6 p.m. For more information and to RSVP visit http://www.freewebs.com/pshs98/ or e-mail pshs98reunion@yahoo.com.
Plymouth-Carver Class of 1983
The Plymouth-Carver High School Class of 1983 reunion will take place at 7 p.m. Nov. 29, at CabbyShack. check out classmates.com, or the Class of 1983 “Groups” section on facebook.com, for reunion info. You can also call or email Sheila Donovan at 244-7115 or sheilad1965@yahoo.com. Volunteers to help with plans are welcome.
Plymouth-Carver Class of 1978
Plymouth-Carver High School, Class of 1978, the 30th reunion is being planned for the fall. Call Joanne Rooney at 508-746-9598 or e-mail 78pilgrim@gmail.com. Leave a name and a phone number or e-mail address so someone can get back to you.
Plymouth-Carver Class of 1985
The Plymouth-Carver Class of 1985 plans to celebrate its 25th year reunion. The reunion committee is actively searching for the addresses of classmates. Contact Linda Flattery at 508-747-5277, ext.230, or LFlattery@Hanover.com and leave your name and phone number/e-mail to update the class list and for more information about the event. Looking for all members and the committee wants to hear from you.
First time homebuyer seminar at town hall
The Plymouth Redevelopment Authority, sponsored by Bank of America, will hold a First Time Homebuyer seminar Oct. 22, 23 and 30 at Town Hall, 11 Lincoln St., Plymouth. Participants will receive the confidence and tools to pursue their goal of homeownership. By attending this workshop you will qualify and become certified for MassHousing First Time Homebuyer Loan Program including lower rates and down payment. You will also become eligible for HUD/DHCD HOME Funds of $9,750-plus for down payment and closing cost assistance. This certification opens the doors for income eligible participants to apply for mortgage programs that have lower interest rates, down payment, and other lender enhancements.
The workshop consists of three evenings, from 6 to 8:45 p.m., Oct. 22-23 and 30. A mortgage banker, real estate broker, home inspector and lawyer will assist in presenting materials that will provide participants with up to date information on the homebuying process. Space is limited. The class fee is $25. All participants will receive a free credit report and may choose to be prequalified by the sponsor, Bank of America. To preregister, call the Plymouth Redevelopment Authority at 508-747-1620, ext. 147, or visit the site www.plymouthredevelopment.org.
First time homebuyer seminar at library
Rockland Trust, in partnership with Buyer Brokers of the South Shore, is hosting a free First Time Homebuyer seminar at the Plymouth Public Library Otto Fellow Room, 132 South St., Plymouth, Saturday, Oct. 25, from 10 a.m. to noon. Topics covered will be those relevant to those purchasing a home for the first time, including: fundamentals of financing in today's market, buyer's agency representation, basic legal issues and what the government's first time homebuyer tax credit means to you. Sara Martin-Brooks, senior loan officer for Rockland Trust’ Georgia Taft Pye, president of PASS; and Atty. Jim Pye will be in attendance. A complimentary continental breakfast will be served. The public is invited to this free, informational session, but must register by calling 781-982-6245 by Oct. 22.
Hazardous product collections
South Shore Recycling Cooperative member towns will host household hazardous product collections this fall. Residents may attend their own town’s event at no charge.
Visitors from those and from the member towns of Cohasset, Duxbury, Hingham, Hull, Kingston, Marshfield and Scituate may attend another listed event at their own town’s expense. To do so, get a signed authorization form from your Board of Health (Abington, Norwell, Rockland and Whitman), Sewer Department (Hull), or Department of Public Works (all other towns). Take proof of residency and the authorization form to the collection. Subsidized quantities may be limited to 15 gallons or 30 pounds.
Anyone without authorization may take material for a fee of $44/15 gallons or 30 pounds. Commercial generators call ahead to 508-785-8318 to ensure capacity.
Oct. 25: Weymouth DPW, 120 Winter St. (Weymouth residents only)
Oct. 25: Hanover and Rockland, Hanover Transfer Station, Route 139
Take: oil-based paint and stains, solvents, gasoline, automotive fluids, pesticides, photography and pool chemicals, acids, bases, and poisons in secure, labeled containers.
Do not take: industrial, pathological and medical waste, radioactive materials, pressurized gas cylinders and explosives. Propane tanks, auto and rechargeable batteries, and fluorescent lamps are collected regularly by many towns and may not be accepted at some collections. Latex paint and driveway sealer are messy, but not hazardous. Dry with absorbent material and dispose with trash (keep lid off).
Residents who turn in a toxic mercury thermometer, thermostat or other mercury item may swap it for a digital thermometer. Swaps sponsored by Covanta at SEMASS.
Clean Harbors will conduct the collections. For more information and directions, call the South Shore Recycling Cooperative at 508-785-8318, or go to ssrc.info.
American Pennies for Hunger is a qualified Massachusetts charitable corporation with a mission of gathering pennies to feed the hungry, and a goal of collecting one million pennies by December 2008. It is an all-volunteer charity funded by private donations, so that 100 percent of pennies donated will be available for the purchase of food for the hungry. Cans with the American Pennies for Hunger graphics and logo, each of which will hold $8 worth of pennies, are placed in strategic locations. People have an opportunity to put the pennies they acquire during purchases, or the ones sitting in their wallets or pockets, into a conveniently placed can, knowing that what weighs them down will lift up those who are in need. Every full can of pennies provide 16 meals for hungry people in eastern Massachusetts. For every dollar donated by American Pennies for Hunger, the Greater Boston Food Bank will provide $4 of donated food. The Greater Boston Food Bank is the largest provider of food to more than 600 hunger-relief agencies feeding 83,000 people every week throughout eastern Massachusetts, including Cape Cod and the Islands.
An American Pennies for Hunger great kickoff celebration is planned from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 6, at the East Bay Grille in Plymouth with guest speakers and a silent auction, abundant appetizers and a cash bar. For information, e-mail whinden@americanpenniesforhunger.org or visit www.americanpenniesforhunger.org or write to the organization at P.O. Box 6272, Plymouth, MA 02362.
Crafters for Thanksgiving Celebration
America’s Hometown 13th annual Thanksgiving Celebration in Plymouth is just three months away. This event draws over 100,000 spectators and this year’s event promises to be more exciting than ever. The heated crafters pavilions will be a three-day event: Friday, Nov. 21, from 2 to 6 p.m.; Saturday, Nov. 22, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday, Nov. 23, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. There will be overnight security for both days. Crafters, this is a great time to sell your wares to visitors looking for a handcrafted item for that special Christmas gift or a souvenir from the Thanksgiving Celebration. Crafters, who are willing to demonstrate their talents to the public, in addition to selling their product and/or taking orders are welcome. The crowds love all types of demonstrations but especially those skills that are becoming a lost art. Booth space and street vendor fees range from $75 to $150. Spaces are filling up quickly. For more information you may call 508-746-1818 or e-mail contact@usathanksgiving.com. An application will be forwarded to you.
Free reverse mortgage seminars
There are free informative sessions on federally insured Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) for senior homeowners age 62 and older, every Friday from 10 a.m. to noon at Advanced Mortgage Services, 25 Main St., Plymouth. Complimentary information kit also available. Space is limited so call for reservations, 888-665-6345.
Foreclosure prevention
The Plymouth Redevelopment Authority recently announced it has received a new grant from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Division of Banks and the Department of Housing and Community Development. Funds are to be used for foreclosure prevention. As a HUD Local Housing Counseling agency, the PRA has been providing foreclosure prevention counseling since 1999. To receive counseling, call the PRA at 508-747-1620, ext. 147, or e-mail redevelopment@townhall.ma.us to make an appointment.
If you have problems paying mortgage, you can call the national counseling hotline President Bush publicized. The number is 888-995-HOPE and operates 24/7. Calling puts you in contact with a HUD-approved counselor affiliated with the nonprofit Homeownership Preservation Foundation.
Boys and Girls Club car campaign
Now that the price of scrap metal has sharply risen, the Boys and Girls Club car campaign will accept almost any car with no restrictions. Cars will be picked up anywhere in Massachusetts, usually within a week, and are sold at auction. To donate, call 800-246-0493. Funds obtained by the sales go directly to help Massachusetts clubs.
The Marine Education and Training Department at Massachusetts Maritime Academy is offering Beyond Red/Right/Return: A Boating Workshop for Women. Sunday, Sept. 21. Time: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Location: Admiral’s Lecture Hall, Harrington Building, Massachusetts Maritime Academy, 101 Academy Drive, Buzzards Bay. This is a unique workshop tailored for women who want to learn more about the elements of boating and navigation in a relaxed classroom setting. Topics include boating safety, basic navigation, GPS navigation, trailering your boat – anchoring/mooring, docking and undocking with confidence, rules of the road and more. Preregistration is necessary. Cost is $95 (includes lunch). Call 508-830-5005 or visit www.maritime.edu/cmt for more information.
Plymouth Food Warehouse
The South Shore Community Action Council’s Greater Plymouth Food Warehouse accepts donations each Wednesday from 9 a.m. to noon. The warehouse also holds four major, townwide collection days each year, on the first Saturday in March, June, September and December. For more information, call the SSCAC at 508-747-7575, ext. 5.
HUD housing counseling
The Plymouth Redevelopment Authority at Town Hall, 11 Lincoln St., is a HUD housing counseling agency. As a HUD agency, the PRA provides free housing counseling to clients in its target area, which includes the towns of Plymouth, Carver, Halifax, Plympton, Kingston, Duxbury, Marshfield and Wareham. Counseling services include home purchase counseling, mortgage default and delinquency counseling, rental and rental delinquency counseling and reverse equity mortgage counseling for seniors. For information, call the PRA at 508-747-1620, ext. 147.
MassRecycle, the State’s recycling coalition, has launched a campaign to give wastepaper the respect it deserves. On Nov. 15 last year “Mass Recycles Paper!” kicked off at the Springfield Material Recycling Facility (SMRF). Gov. Patrick proclaimed the date “Massachusetts Recycles Paper Day.” MassDEP Commissioner Laurie Burt announced the campaign’s challenge to Massachusetts residents, businesses and institutions to get a million tons of paper a year out of the trash. Sponsors include MassDEP, US EPA, the Newark Group and Covanta at SEMASS. Pledging to reduce, reuse and recycle as much paper as you can, at home, at work, and at school can be a lot easier than going on a diet. If you aren’t in the habit yet, just put a bag or extra container next to all your trash cans, and put all your clean paper into them. Window envelopes, lottery tickets, paper clips can all go in now. To learn what kinds of paper can be recycled, see if your town leaders signed the resolution, and much more, go to www.MassRecyclesPaper.org.
Massachusetts residents are urged to “fight poverty with passion” by joining VISTA, the AmeriCorps program that fights poverty. Visit AmeriCorps.gov or call 800-942-2677 to learn more and apply. VISTA was founded in 1964 as part of the War on Poverty. Since then, more than 177,000 Americans have answered VISTA’s call to devote a year of full-time service living and working in low-income communities to help eradicate poverty. Made part of AmeriCorps in 1993, VISTA provides 6,500 opportunities each year for individuals to create and expand programs that fight illiteracy, improve health services, foster business and economic development, increase housing opportunities, and otherwise help low-income individuals and communities toward self-sufficiency.
Nearly 37 million Americans, including 13 million children, live in poverty. In Massachusetts an estimated 12 percent of residents lived below the poverty line. That means nearly one in seven of Massachusetts residents may be forced to choose between eating dinner, obtaining a vital prescription, or paying the monthly heating bill. VISTAs tackle poverty by improving the ability of organizations to alleviate poverty in their communities by raising funds, recruiting community volunteers, and designing sustainable programs that get to the heart of the problem. VISTAs serve with large national nonprofits such as Habitat for Humanity, ACCION, One Economy, and Boys & Girls Clubs of America as well as with very small community and faith-based organizations.
In return for a year of service, VISTAs receive a variety of benefits, including a modest living allowance, health care, and relocation expenses. At the completion of their term of service, VISTAs also receive a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award of $4,725 to use toward college or to pay off qualified student loans, or VISTAs can choose to receive a stipend of $1,200. While VISTAs appreciate these benefits, most say the most attractive part of VISTA is the skills and leadership they gain and the deep sense of satisfaction they feel when they know they’ve made a difference. AmeriCorps is administered by the Corporation for National and Community Service, the federal agency that also oversees Senior Corps and Learn and Serve America. The mission of the Corporation is to improve lives, strengthen communities, and foster civic engagement though volunteering and service. For more information, visit nationalservice.gov or call 800-942-2677.
SSCAC incentives for savers
Saving money is hard, but South Shore Community Action Council is making it easier. Qualified individuals who participate in a matched savings account program will receive $4,000 when they reach an established amount of savings of $1,300. The total amount of $5,333 may then be used towards the purchase of one of three assets. These assets include a first home, an education or training program for the participant or his/her child, or capitalization of a small business. Participants in the program receive education on managing personal finances, and agree to regularly save money towards their desired purchase. They also meet monthly with program staff and other program participants to receive additional knowledge and support. There are income guidelines for the program and limited slots available. Call Mary Price at 508-747-7575, ext. 257, for additional information or to apply for the program.
Many homes in America have at least one or two old cell phones lying in a drawer or closet somewhere, doing nothing but collecting dust. Most people are unaware that cell phones such as these can be put to good use; they can be employed by organizations and businesses that use them for fundraising. One such organization is SkillsUSA Massachusetts. SkillsUSA is collecting used and unwanted cell phones to raise funds to help defer the student costs of district, state and national competitions. They are asking the community to help by donating unneeded cell phones, which can be dropped off at Plymouth South High School’s main office and the technical studies office. They are located at 490 Long Pond Road.
This is an ongoing fundraiser. The donated cell phones are sent to PaceButler Corporation of Edmond, Okla., a leader in the cell phone recycling industry. PaceButler pays for each shipment of cell phones they receive, while ensuring that each phone is recycled in a responsible manner and that no phone ever ends up in a landfill. By donating cell phones to SkillsUSA, the public not only helps them raise money for students, they also help the environment, while at the same time getting rid of unneeded clutter in their homes. SkillsUSA Massachusetts is a state association of SkillsUSA, a national organization serving more than 275,000 high school and college students and professional members who are enrolled in training programs in technical, skilled and service occupations, including health occupations.
The organization partners with business and industry, and provides opportunities for its members to develop individually and improve teamwork, leadership and professional skills through education, training, service and competition. For more information, call Sue Martin at 508-224-7512.
Club Z In-Home Tutoring, 532 Raymond Road, Plymouth, 508-759-6789, offers sessions of uninterrupted, individualized tutoring as often as parents choose; two, three or more times a week. Club Z also offers in-home tutoring in all core subjects, including reading, math, science, as well as instruction in study skills, music, computers, SAT, ACT and other assessment test preparation. Find out more by visiting the Web site at www.clubztutoring.com or by calling 508-759-6789. Ask how your child can receive a free week of tutoring. Club Z serves all ages, pre-kindergarten through adult.
Becca’s Closet of Plymouth is a nonprofit organization that provides formal attire to high school girls who otherwise would not be able to afford a prom, homecoming or semi-formal dress. Becca’s Closet wants to make sure that all girls will look amazing on their special night. Girls needing a dress should call for an appointment and take a valid high school ID to the appointment. Becca’s Closet is located at The Cleanist Dry Cleaner on Long Pond Road in Plymouth, right off Exit 5 (Route 3) near Friendly’s Restaurant. Call 508-747-4622 and ask for Maureen, Adrianna or Caroline.
Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society
The Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society is the global voice for the protection of whales, dolphins and their environment. WDCS has an office at 7 Nelson St., Plymouth, 888-MYWHALE (888-699-4253). Visit www.whales.org for information. The Dolphin Manual is a tool kit for primary school children (age 6 to 14) and their teachers. It explains marine mammals and indicates different ways to protect them. The study booklet with exercises and action ideas to learn all about dolphins is a major component of the educational activities during the Year of the Dolphin. It has been produced in several languages and is available in two editions. The publication will be distributed through the UNESCO network of schools, UNEP channels, and in major tourist destinations thus reaching a wide audience worldwide. The booklet is available on the dedicated Web site www.yod2007.org/en/Press/Publications/index/html.
Power wheelchairs available
The Senior Wheels USA Program makes available power wheelchairs to senior citizens and the permanently disabled at no cost to the recipient, if they qualify. If the patient’s need is for use in the home, call toll free 800-246-6010 for information.
Wishes on Wheels makes available electric power wheelchairs to nonambulatory seniors citizens (age 65 and up) and the permanently disabled of any age, if they qualify. Usually there is no charge or out of pocket expense for the power wheelchair, including shipping and delivery to the home by a technician, who makes the final adjustments to fit the individual and shows them how to use and maintain it. Call 800-823-5220 or visit www.threewishes2.com for information.
Car donations to M.E.F.
Individuals who would like their old cars removed from their yards, free of charge, or would like a quick alternative to selling or trading their vehicle, have another option. Used vehicles are an essential source of funding to the Melanoma Education Foundation, a nonprofit Peabody-based organization that trains wellness teachers and nurses about skin cancer and provides them with free materials to teach the subject to high school and middle school students in a single-class session. The MEF SkinCheck curriculum is being used in more than 550 New England schools, including Plymouth North High School and Plymouth South High School.
Every individual who donates a car or truck, running or not, will be provided with a receipt so they can receive a tax deduction in exchange for their gift. According to current tax law, donors can assign a value of up to $500 on their receipt for any car they donate. Donors who donate vehicles that are significantly more valuable (that sell for more than $500) qualify for a tax deduction equal to the full sale amount of their vehicle. These donors receive a receipt that details the full dollar amount of the sale.
To make a vehicle donation through MEF’s local donation agent, call Cars Helping America at 866-949-3668 and specify that you have a car to donate to the Melanoma Education Foundation. More information about the Melanoma Education Foundation is available at www.skincheck.org.
Donate to Cars4Charities
You can claim a minimum $500 deduction on your itemized federal tax return by donating your car to Cars4Charities. If you car sells for more than $500, the sale price will be the amount you can claim as a deduction. Cars4Charities accepts most in southern Massachusetts for donation, old or new, running or not. To be eligible for donation, your car must have a clear title, not be stripped of parts, have four inflated tires and be in a place where a tow truck can easily get to it. Cars4Charities will handle the entire donation process, from start to finish. They’ll turn your car into cash and send the entire net proceeds to the charity you select from their impressive list. The process is easy. Simply log onto www.cars4charities.org or call 866-448-3487. Your vehicle will be picked up in a matter of days, free of charge. Cars4Charities will provide you with all the paperwork you’ll need to claim your deduction. Some of the charities your donation can help include Breast Cancer Research Foundation, American Foundation for the Blind, Autism Speaks, Cancer Research & Prevention, Asthma and Allergy Foundation, United Spinal Association, Teach for America and the Arc of Massachusetts.
Web site for women’s safety
Ronald Rice of Plymouth, a private investigator and nationally recognized clinical and forensic Behavioral Profiler through Written Communication, has established a personal and confidential Web site for women seeking advice, assistance and/or consultation regarding online (and offline) dating, relationship and/or compatibility issues.Visit www.womenconfidentialworld.com or call 508-759-2551 for details. Rice has more than 40 years civil and criminal investigative background.
The Social Work Therapy Referral Service offers free confidential referrals for individual, couple, family and group therapy, matched for specialty, location and insurance. A public service of the National Association of Social Workers. Call 617-720-2828 or 800-242-9794.
WIC (Women, Infants and Children) is a nutrition program that provides health education, healthy food and other services free of charge to Massachusetts families who qualify. Its goal is to keep pregnant and breast-feeding women and kids under 5 healthy by providing nutrition consultations and vouchers to buy healthy food. The Plymouth WIC is located at 123-1 Camelot Drive. Call 508-747-4933 for information. There are also area offices in Middleboro 508-946-0632, Wareham 508-295-0056, Rockland 781-878-0669 and a new office in Marshfield 781-834-8980.
Food pantry at Christ Church
The food pantry at Christ Church, Plymouth, is now open on Saturdays from 10 to 11:30 a.m. This is in addition to the food pantry hours Tuesday and Thursday from 4 to 5:30 p.m. For more information you can also call the church at 508-746-4959. Christ Church Parish (Episcopal) is located at 149 Court St., Plymouth. The office telephone number is 508-746-4959. Items may be donated directly to the food pantry during pantry hours or to the office during regular office hours.
Local salvage clothing program
The American Red Cross benefits greatly from public donations of used clothing, shoes and household linens in good condition as a way of generating funds to support local programs and services. The local Red Cross would like to encourage your support. Donate your items at any of the Red Cross bins located throughout Greater Plymouth County. If your clothing donation is valued at $250 or more, the IRS requires that you obtain a receipt to claim a deduction on your federal income tax. If the clothing donation is worth less than $250, no written receipt is necessary. Call Tobias at 508-586-4790, ext. 103, to obtain an annual tax receipt or if you are a local business owner and would like a clothing bin to be placed at your location.
The Balboni Companies of Camelot Park has a food bank drop-box at the Mini Storage building, located at 106 Camelot Drive, Plymouth. All donations of nonperishable food items will be gladly accepted. Mini Storage is open Monday through Saturday; telephone, 508-746-3210.
Coalition for the Homeless
The Plymouth Area Coalition for the Homeless, 149 Bishop’s Highway, Kingston, offers assistance in the South Shore area. If you would like information or wish to volunteer, call Jean Delaney at 781-582-2010.
The Plymouth animal shelter, located on Route 3A in Cedarville next to the fire station, has a variety of dogs and cats in need of homes. The shelter offers adoptions seven days a week by appointment.
You can see photos of animals currently up for adoption and information on the Web site petfinder.com. Call 508-888-1186 for information.
Every month, the Friends of the Plymouth Pound sponsors the Animal Rescue League Spay Waggin’ in the Cedarville Fire Station parking lot, offering discounted spaying and neutering services to local residents. Call the Animal Rescue League at 877-590-SPAY for an appointment. The Friends is an all-volunteer organization, relying solely on the donations of the public to continue its programs. It is not affiliated with the Plymouth Animal Shelter. For information on the Friends, visit http://gis.net/~fpp or call 508-224-6651.
The South Shore Women’s Center provides comprehensive domestic-violence intervention and prevention. Groups for children and women are offered in Plymouth, Hingham, Kingston and Middleboro. Call 781-582-0078.
Item collection for troops
The Radisson Hotel Plymouth Harbor, 180 Water St., is collecting donations for U.S. servicemen overseas. Travel-sized toiletries are needed, such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, moisturizer, deodorant, lip balm, sunscreen, disposable razors, foot powder and individually packed nonperishable snacks including gum, hard candy, packets of nuts and snack bars. Additional needs include paperback books, crossword puzzles, playing cards, sunglasses, stationery, disposable cameras and prepaid global calling cards. Items may be dropped off at the front desk of the hotel. Call 508-591-5010 or send e-mail to info@radissonplymouth.com.
Homes for Our Troops is a nonprofit organization that builds specially adapted homes for disabled veterans. Call Doreen Buker at 508-866-2432, or send e-mail to hfotbenefit@yahoo.com. To make a donation, make checks payable to Homes for Our Troops and mail to Doreen Buker, 2 Pondview Way, Carver, MA 02330.
You may be eligible for NStar’s discount rate for gas and electricity if you qualify for fuel assistance or any of the following: Supplemental Security Income (SSI), food stamps, MassHealth basic and standard (formerly Medicaid), Massachusetts veterans benefits, dependency and indemnity compensation, improved veterans disability pension. Call NStar at 800-566-2080 for information or an application.
Take your flag to a town transfer station or to the Veterans office at town hall for disposal. The Veterans of Foreign Wars will assure that proper procedure is followed. For information, call 508-830-4160 or e-mail mfarrell@townhall.plymouth.ma.us.
There will be an Autumn Crop event from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8, sponsored by the Women’s Auxiliary Unit 40, at the American Legion Post 40, 199 Federal Furnace Road (508-746-0009). The cost is $35 and preregistration required. Includes continental breakfast, lunch, light supper, snacks, lots of prizes and fun. Send check or money order to Patty Cavicchi, 105 Federal Furnace Road, Plymouth, MA 02360. Proceeds towards supporting veterans and their families, college scholarships, and children’s programs. Questions? Call Linda Greenwood at 508-747-2179.
Marine Corps League Detachment 1306
The Plymouth Detachment 1306 of the Marine Corps League meets the first Tuesday of every month at the American Legion Post 40, 199 Federal Furnace Road, Plymouth. Membership is open to all honorably discharged Marine veterans and Navy FMF Corpsmen. For information call 508-224-9590.
The Disabled American Veterans Chapter #72 and the DAV Auxiliary of Plymouth meet the third Tuesday of the month at the American Legion Post #40 at 7 p.m. (except June and January). All disabled veterans and their close relatives (men can now join the auxiliary) are welcome to attend. They hold monthly bingo parties at the Brockton V.A. Hospital, invite patients from the V.A. for a cookout in August and a turkey dinner in November, donate clothing on a regular basis and support the DAV van program. The DAV room at Memorial Hall in Plymouth is open every Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon. If you have any questions in regard to your eligibility for benefits, there is a service officer available to answer your questions or you are welcome to just stop by and say hello. Contact Larry Rooney, Chapter Commander, at 508-746-4541 or Unit Commander Cindy Legge at 508-224-1928.
The Auxiliary is open to membership for male or female relatives of a disabled American veteran injured in time of war or a conflict (grandparents, parents, spouses, brothers and sisters, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, widows and their children or children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren of an Auxiliary member as well as a DAV member). The work of the Auxiliary is to encourage legislation for the veterans, volunteer at the VA hospitals and soldiers’ homes, help the families of a disabled or deceased veteran, and see that the veterans get the benefits promised them as well as decent medical care.
If you are eligible to join the Auxiliary and would like to help meet these goals, attend the meeting or call 508-830-0173 for an application for the Auxiliary or for a contact person for the DAV. The DAV is open for veterans disabled in time of war or conflict. If interested in joining the DAV, attend their meetings at the Legion or visit Memorial Hall in Plymouth Saturdays between 10 a.m. and noon.
U.S. Army Reserve Drill Sergeant program
The 1st Battalion 304th Regiment is seeking highly motivated and highly qualified individuals with prior military service (any branch) and actively drilling Reserve and National Guard soldiers for the U.S. Army Reserve Drill Sergeant program.
The Battalion headquarters, located in Londonderry, N.H., consists of five Basic Training companies and a Headquarters Company in three New England states: Londonderry, N.H.; Bangor and Saco, Maine; and Fort Devens (Mass.).
Drill sergeants, upon graduation from school, receive enlistment and reenlistment bonuses, pro-pay and additional pay of approximately $50 per drill month and $200 during annual training. In addition, per order of the U.S. Army Reserve Commanding General, drill sergeants are not to be cross-leveled and deployed overseas.
If you are/were an E-4 or higher, are in good physical condition, have no permanent profile, a GT score of 100 or higher, and have no disciplinary actions in the last five years, you qualify.
Drill sergeants work alongside and learn from the most elite non-commissioned officers in the U.S. Army. They train, teach, mentor and evaluate today’s war fighters.
For information, call MSG Jane Belanger, unit administrator, at 603-537-8026; or SFC Marc Bergeron, PAC supervisor, at 603-537-8025.
Plymouth VFW Post 1822
VFW Post 1822 meetings are the second Tuesday of each month at the VFW Post 1822, 22 Seven Hills Road, Plymouth, at 8 p.m., followed by a collation at 9 p.m. The men’s auxiliary meets on the third Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. and the executive board meets the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.
American Legion Post 40
The American Legion Post 40 meets at 199 Federal Furnace Road. Regular meetings are held the first Thursday of each month at 8 p.m. Call 508-746-0009 for information. The post also accepts torn, soiled or badly faded U.S. flags for proper disposal at an annual ceremony. Don Duquette is Commander.
·Welcome Home Troops: If you have a family member returning from war and would like to plan a welcome home party, the American Legion Post 40 offers its services as availability allows. Call 508-746-7729 or 508-746-0009.
VFW Post 1822 Ladies Auxiliary
Plymouth Memorial VFW Post 1822 Ladies Auxiliary meets at the post headquarters, 22 Seven Hills Road, the first Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. The group is seeking mothers, sisters, grandmothers and wives of soldiers overseas. The membership fee is $25 to join, then $20 a year. Call membership chairman Anna Bumpus at 508-746-1353 or treasurer Vicky Weidner at 508-888-8312. The Ladies Auxiliary goes to the Brockton VA Hospital at 7 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month. If interested, call Mary Bell at 508-746-0531.
Plymouth Veterans Council
The Plymouth Veterans Council meets the first Sunday of the month at noon at Memorial Hall. The council is made up of the VFW, American Legion, DAV, Pearl Harbor Survivors, Paralyzed Veterans of New England, Sea Bees Island and the 40/8. The Council works closely with the Plymouths Veterans Agent on all issues pertaining to veterans, veterans’ memorials and parades in Plymouth. All veterans are welcomed at these meetings, the council urges all veterans to please join a veterans organization. The council is currently working with state and federal veterans agencies in attempts of opening a veteran’s outpatient facility in Plymouth.
The Veterans Day parade Tuesday, Nov. 11, will assemble at 9 a.m. at Hedge Road in North Plymouth and step off at 9:30. The route is as follows: south on Court Street to Cherry Street, then west on Cherry Street to Standish Avenue. Then south on Standish Avenue to the veterans playground area for a brief ceremony. From there the parade will proceed south to Hamilton Street to Court Street, to Memorial Hall for a brief ceremony (World War II veterans). Then to the Courthouse area (Vietnam and Korean memorials) for a brief ceremony. The parade will continue on Court Street to the World War II Bridge and on to the Training Green. In the event of inclement weather, the ceremonies will be held indoors at 10:30 a.m. at Memorial Hall on Court Street. Call the Veterans Services Department at 508-747-1620, ext. 172 or 173, with questions.
Veterans Services office in Plymouth
Veterans Services provides assistance to veterans and their spouses. “One time assistance” is offered to low income ($1,702 one person or $2,282 two persons) veterans and their spouses to pay overdue utility bills to keep utilities on. In addition assistance may be provided for first, last and security deposit for low-income veterans in need of housing, reimbursement to low-income veterans and their spouses for their Medicare B deductible, medical premiums and co-pays for doctor visits and prescriptions drugs. Veterans Services will assist in filling for Mass Health, home aid assistance and any veteran’s compensation or pension claims. In order to qualify, the veteran must have served on active duty for 90 days wartime/180 days peacetime, National Guard/Reserve call up for active duty under Chapter 10 (schools and training do not count towards active duty time) and not have assets of more than $3,200 for one person with no life insurance or $7,000 for two persons with no life insurance. 401K, CD, savings bonds and savings accounts all count towards assets. Your home and car do not count as assets. If you have any questions or need more information, stop by the Veterans Services office in the Plymouth Town Hall, 11 Lincoln St., Plymouth, first floor, or call 508-747-1620, ext. 172 or 173. If you cannot come in due to a disability or illness, just call and work out a time that is best for you to be visited at home. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.
Nathan Hale Foundation
The Nathan Hale Foundation is a nonprofit, tax-exempt, 501c(3) organization, located at 6 Main Street Extension in Plymouth, 508-747-2003. Its focus is to assist troops and their families who face personal, professional and financial hardships. Its Troops in Transit program assists with transporting local veterans, free, to and from the V.A. hospitals in the area. Call 508-747-2003 to have a transportation application mailed to you. Visit wwww.thenathanhalefoundation.org for details.
Mondays: To West Roxbury V.A. Hospital; all appointments to be scheduled from 9 a.m. until noon.
Wednesdays: To Jamaica Plain V.A. Hospital; 9 a.m. until noon.
Fridays: Any local doctor appointments in the Plymouth/Carver/Kingston area, between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.
United Spinal Association has launched VetsFirst, a comprehensive, full-service veterans advocacy program. United Spinal has a long history of assisting veterans, both with and without disabilities, in securing their civil rights, government benefits, and health care. Founded more than 60 years ago by a group of World War II veterans who had sustained spinal cord injuries on the battlefields of Europe and the Pacific, United Spinal Association has been continuously fighting for the rights of veterans and their families at the federal, state and local levels. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has authorized United Spinal to serve as a national veterans service organization.
Through its VetsFirst program, United Spinal Association provides direct representation of individual veteran benefit claimants through a national network of VA-accredited veterans service officers; legal representation in appeals of denied VA claims, legislative advocacy before Congress and state legislatures; and represents veterans’ interests as a group before executive agencies and the courts. Veterans returning from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are facing complex conditions such as traumatic brain injury, poly-traumatic injuries, and post-traumatic stress disorder. These conditions affect every aspect of their lives – health, employment, finances, and family and social relationships. VetsFirst’s full-service approach to caring for veterans focuses on all of these concerns. For more information, visit the VetsFirst section of United Spinal Association’s Web site, www.unitedspinal.org.
SupportOurTroops.Org, CFC#31529, recently shipped 240,000 free servings of popcorn goodwill gifts to the men, women and families on every Army base in America. That was 3,246 cases, $249,011 worth, 33 tons. And that’s on top of millions of dollars of free popcorn and other materials shipped by SupportOurTroops.Org to deployed troops all around the world. Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts went door to door across America and asked people if they would like to donate $25 of popcorn treats to the troops. And at $25 a pop this many people did. SupportOurTroops.Org, CFC#31529, offers simple ways for folks to thank and show support to American troops (our neighbors) serving all over the world. It is a non-partisan, non-political civilian organization, welcoming civilians, active-duty families, and veterans as members. Donations at SupportOurTroops.Org help us do wonderful things like this for the troops and their families. The group also produces state-issuance of Support Our Troops license plates in 25 states to date, with more under way. Support Our Troops is a nation-wide 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with chapters in 37 states to date. It also operates the Find-A-Group Program, a major service program linking everyone up by providing a consolidated, editable, searchable Web list of all charities and organizations doing anything that benefits the active duty troops or their families. Visit www.supportourtroops.org for details.
Thanksgiving Celebration
America’s Hometown 13th annual Thanksgiving Parade will step off at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 22. For more information call 508-746-1818 or e-mail contact@usathanksgiving.com. The America’s Hometown Thanksgiving Celebration Committee is seeking volunteers for the following.
·Float builders: Energetic volunteers who love working with their hands to assist in building and painting parade floats. Carpentry, wood working, painting skills are a plus, but all are welcome.
·Costume department: Volunteers needed to sew costumes. Sewing machine a plus.
·Floater: Willing to work in any position to fill in shifts as needed at any site.
·Setup and take down (concerts and parade): Helping with general setup/Decorating the waterfront and Memorial Hall, installations, removals, and cleaning after the event. Heavy lifting and bending may be required.
·Stagehand (concerts and parade): Assisting stage manager to “set the stage” and help with band set changes. Stage technician experience required. Lifting may be required. Setting up chairs for Friday concert
·Security (cncerts, parade, Food Festival): Provide safety, security, and order during each part of the event. Past experience a plus, but all are welcome. Assistance with parade lineup.
·Concert ushers: Personable volunteers who will assist concert guest in finding seating, refreshments and restrooms around the concert hall.
·Food Festival volunteers: Ticket taking, monitoring traffic flow, trash removal, recycling containers & keeping food tent area clean.
·Hospitality volunteers: Help with the efficient orchestration of all aspects of hospitality for local, national and international guests attending and or participating in the America’s Thanksgiving Celebration. Assisting with performer, vendor, or sponsor area hospitality that could include area setup and cleanup, serving snacks, light food preparation, keeping hospitality areas clean and neat, or acting as booth sitters, if needed.
For more information or to volunteer call 508-746-1818 or visit www.usathanksgiving.com.
Beacon Hospice serves hospice patients in Middleboro, Lakeville, Carver, Wareham and Plymouth and is conducting a training class for people who wish to volunteer their services. Volunteers provide companionship to people who are facing a difficult time in their lives. Share yourself with others and see how much you receive in return. Class starts Tuesday, Sept. 30, from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and continues weekly through Nov. 25. Meets at Middleborough Library, 102 North Main St., Middleborough.
Did you know that 40 percent of third-graders in the Unites States are unable to read up to grade level? You can change this by becoming a volunteer reading partner in the following Plymouth elementary schools: Hedge, Cold Spring, Federal Furnace, West, Nathaniel Morton, Manomet and South; as well as the Boys & Girls Club afterschool program. Read one-on-one with a child in first, second or third grade and make a difference that can last a lifetime. Qualifications include a commitment to children, a love of reading and good verbal skills. Training is provided. Contact Susan O’Neal at Mayflower RSVP at 508-746-7787 or mayflowerrsvp@verizon,net
Emergency Dispensing Sites
Cities and towns across Massachusetts have been working with federal and state officials to address future acts of bioterrorism. Plans for Emergency Dispensing Sites are currently being completed. Community based Emergency Dispensing Sites are places that can be set up in an emergency to rapidly administer vaccines or medications to a large number of people. These sites could be activated for anything from a local outbreak to a flu pandemic or bioterrorist event. It is hoped the sites never have to be utilized but we must be prepared to do so. Volunteers are critical for mounting an efficient and organized response. Volunteers and their families will be the first to receive vaccines and medications should an emergency occur. Training will be provided both before and during an emergency.
A wide range of licensed or certified health professionals are needed such as: doctors, nurses, EMTs/paramedics, pharmacists/pharmacy technicians, dentists, veterinarians, mental health counselors, physician assistants, allied health, psychologists and social workers.
Non-medical people are needed including: greeters, educators, form reviewers, transportation drivers, IT specialists, translators, child care professionals, escorts, food prep workers, maintenance and custodial, public safety, clergy, public information specialists. Contact Plymouth Area Medical Reserve Corp. and volunteer today by calling 508-747-5050 or e-mail MRC@townhall.plymouth.ma.us.
Plimoth Plantation welcomes Denise Brouillette Nichols of Plymouth as the new manager of volunteers and internship programs. As always, the volunteer department is looking for people to help frequently with positions at Plimoth Cinema, regular drivers of Plimoth Plantation’s golf cart (to aid visitors with less mobility) and a whole host of other opportunities to suit individual volunteers and their varied interests.
Nichols and Plimoth Plantation invite potential volunteers to the museum for the monthly Lunch Bunch meetings, scheduled for the first Thursday of every month at noon, in the Henry Hornblower Visitor Center. Lunch Bunchers are encouraged to pack a brown bag lunch. Dessert and coffee will be provided. Volunteers will find Nichols in the Volunteer Office (second floor of the Henry Hornblower Visitor Center), by phone at 508-746-1622, ext. 8203, or by e-mail at dnichols@plimoth.org.
Become a foster parent
Did you know that there are over 23,000 children in the state of Massachusetts in foster care? Dare Family Services is looking for caring families to provide foster care for area children ranging in age from newborn to 18. While helping a child, you will receive excellent training, 24-hour support and a tax-free stipend toward the child’s care. You must have the time for a child, sufficient space in your home and a car available at all times. You can make a difference in a child’s life. For information, call a home finder at 508-802-9515.
Brockton nutrition program
Old Colony Elderly Services Inc. is in desperate need of volunteers for its Nutrition Program sites in Brockton. Volunteers are needed to set up, bag and distribute meals at the Belair, Manning, Caffrey and Campello congregate nutrition sites. Meals on Wheels volunteer drivers are also needed to deliver meals to elders throughout the Brockton area. Drivers typically deliver 15-20 meals a day, between 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. and are reimbursed for mileage. Volunteers are needed Monday through Friday, yet they may help out for any number of days per week that they desire.
Serving Brockton residents age 60 and over, as well as disabled residents under 60, Old Colony Elderly Services’ Nutrition Program is designed to enhance their quality of life by providing nutritionally sound and satisfying meals. Because the Nutrition Program is primarily federally funded, there is no income-based test; all residents at least 60 years of age and those less than 60 but disabled are eligible.
At the congregate meal sites, elders receive a well-balanced meal and have the opportunity to participate in the diverse programs offered. For elders who are unable to attend the congregate site, the Meals on Wheels aspect of this program can be the answer. Home delivery of meals enables OCES to provide an important nutritional supplement; an added benefit is that daily delivery assures an elder has regular contact from the outside. Meal delivery also serves as a “safety check” for elders; volunteer drivers make sure all is well with each elder on the routes and report back if there is any elder in need.
To learn more about volunteering for Old Colony Elderly Services, call Brenda Carrens at 508-584-1561.
OCES serves the towns of Abington, Avon, Bridgewater, Brockton, Carver, Duxbury, East Bridgewater, Easton, Halifax, Hanover, Hanson, Kingston, Lakeville, Marshfield, Middleboro, Pembroke, Plymouth, Plympton, Rockland, Stoughton, Wareham, West Bridgewater and Whitman.
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