“May your blessings outnumber the shamrocks that grow, and may trouble avoid you wherever you go.” — Irish Blessing
Losing
D
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SEE O AGE 3 7 days a week
ON P Take out menu
available
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546 WASHINGTON ST., WHITMAN
WWW.MCGUIGGANSPUB.COM
Regal Marketplace
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man residents can once again STEPPING OUT: Anne and Ed Thibeault take a spin on the dance floor to tunes played by The RS 649 Since 1978 781-826-7779
see their lawns, streets and Wild Rovers at the Irish Night dinner/dance hosted by the Cardinal Spellman Council 347
mailboxes. But in some cases,
what’s left behind is not exact-
Knights of Columbus on Friday, March 11 at the Whitman K of C Hall. See more photos from
the event on page 9.
TINY & SONS
ly a welcome sight.
Photo by Becca Manning
GLASS
Litter on the sidewalks
Assessment approved
and streets of Whitman Cen- MOBILE AUTO GLASS
ter and throughout town has SERVICE
become a problem, resident
Dottie Arena said — one she 1-888-64-TINY’S
is hoping to solve. 237 Washington St., Pembroke, MA
For Arena, who has lived
in town for 20 years and be- Officials say 6 percent school hike is too much WE SUPPORT PEMBROKE BOY’S
AND GIRLS CLUB
gan noticing the trash problem budget, Superintendent Dr. 9 said they did not think the
Johnson
By Becca Manning, Express Editor
recently, the issue came to a becca@hansonexpress.com Ruth Gilbert-Whitner said. towns could support a 6 per-
head when she observed that Looking to help close a “Sometimes people think cent increase. Hanson Town INSURANCE AGENCY
a single cup had been in the $1.6 million budget gap, the that if we say there was a 3 Administrator René Read said LIFE INSURANCE
same spot outside a downtown Whitman-Hanson Regional percent [or example] increase he had planned for a 3 percent
establishment for three weeks. School District School Com- in the operating assessment, increase in his town budget,
s 3AVE 5P 4O
When she pointed it out to mittee approved a 6 percent it means there was a 3 per- while Whitman Finance Com- s !PPLY "Y 0HONE
the clerks inside the shop, they increase in the operating as- cent increase in the Whitman- mittee member Kristin Ross s .O -ONEY $OWN
told her the town did not allow sessment to the towns of Han- Hanson budget. We wish that said she did not feel Whitman
them to have a trash barrel on son and Whitman last week. were the case,” she said. “For could handle any increase at
(781) 447-4400
the street. The committee voted 9-1 each increase of 1 percent in this time.
www.insurewithjohnson.com
#ENTRE 3TREET 2TE s "ROCKTON
But Arena felt the problem in favor of the increase, with the operating budget, with two School Committee mem- MILE WEST OF "ROCKTON (OSPITAL
was bigger than that. member Christopher Powers towns, it’s an increase in rev- ber Michael Kryzanek first
“I went home that day, the sole vote against. enue of about $150,000.” proposed a 4 percent assess-
opened up the newspaper, and If certified, the 6 percent in- Hanson and Whitman town ment increase but later with-
crease would not mean a 6 per- officials present at the budget
continued on page 20 cent increase in the WHRSD hearing on Wednesday, March continued on page 12
W
By Stephanie Spyropoulos
Express Staff Whitman native Mark merly of Whitman, were er, serving in the Air Force,
ith the devasta- O’Donnell, who is stationed comforted to hear from their will be helping the people
tion still unfold- with the U.S. Air Force in Ja- brother, who stated via e- of Japan during this crisis,”
ing following pan, has kept in contact with mails and later by phone that Winnett said.
a 9.0-magnitude earthquake his family with updates on he, his wife Meaghan and son, The base where O’Donnell MOVING SALE
and life-altering tsunamis Facebook and e-mail, allow- Kaden, 16 months, were safe. is stationed is nearly 1,000 EVERYTHING 10% OFF
in Japan this past week, one ing them to breathe easier this “I am extremely grate- miles away from the coast-
Whitman family along with week. ful that my family is in a safe al communities that were 781-447-4451
many host families are find- O’Donnell’s sisters, Mi- location, and my heart goes struck. O’Donnell, a U.S. Air w w w. s a f t l e r s . c o m
ing information about their chelle Winnett of Whitman out to those whose lives and Mon-Fri 9:30am-9pm / Sat 9:30am-5:30pm
Closed Sunday
Japanese friends and family and Danielle Sullivan and homes were destroyed. I am continued on page 2 Located at the junctions Rte 18 & 14
Whitman
2 The Express – Your Hometown Newspaper! Thursday, March 17, 2011
When money is tight, Whitman-Hanson Regional School District spent $10,204.17 per
student during fiscal year 2010 compared to the state average of
Real Estate Sales
people often scrutinize every WHITMAN/HANSON
$13,092.74 per student — ranking 299 out of 322 schools report-
single expense, trying to deter- ing in the commonwealth, Superintendent Dr. Ruth Gilbert-Whitner
mine just what is necessary and No real estate transactions.
reported March 9. Per-pupil costs are based on student population
what can be cut — that daily and revenue from the general fund, grants and other funds. Below
cup of coffee, the cable bill, is a look at how those expenses break down:
new clothes, even groceries. WHRSD per pupil State avg. per pupil
Though their budget is
much larger than the average Administration $242.89 $448.30
Sunrise/Sunset
household, the Whitman-Han- Instructional leadership $630.35 $820.23
son Regional School District Classroom/specialist teachers $4,123.86 $4,968.01
Sunrise Sunset
too is turning a careful eye on Friday March 18 6:50 a.m. 6:52 p.m.
its expenses to see just how Other teaching services $612.07 $963
Saturday March 19 6:48 a.m. 5:53 p.m.
every dollar is being spent Professional development $81.23 $228.71
Sunday March 20 6:46 a.m. 6:54 p.m.
and how they might be able to Instructional materials $407.72 $392.83
cover a projected $1.6 million Monday March 21 6:44 a.m. 6:55 p.m.
equipment and technology
deficit. Guidance, counseling and testing $335.10 $359.94
Tuesday March 22 6:43 a.m. 6:56 p.m.
But how lean is too lean? Wednesday March 23 6:41 a.m. 6:58 p.m.
At the March 9 School Pupil services (transportation, $917.92 $1,177.75
Thursday March 24 6:39 a.m. 6:59 p.m.
Committee meeting, WHRSD food service, athletics, etc.)
Friday March 25 6:37 a.m. 7:00 p.m.
Superintendent Dr. Ruth Gil- Operations and maintenance $905.65 $1,049.34
bert-Whitner reported that the Insurance, retirement $1,469.45 $2,198.91
district spent less per pupil programs and other items
than nearly 300 other schools Payments to out-of-district $37,376.43 $20,956.51
across the commonwealth. schools (tuition and transportation)
In fiscal year 2010, with
a student population of about TOTAL AVERAGE PER PUPIL $10,204.17 $13,092.74
4,502, the district spent
$10,204.17 per pupil, while the teachers have given back their pupil cost so low.
state average was $13,092.74, reimbursement for courses “I look at what our per-
Gilbert-Whitner reported. Out taken to further their educa- student expenditure is and
of 322 schools listed on the tion. how low we rank against
Massachusetts Department of “The per-pupil expense in other communities, and that
Elementary and Secondary the district [for professional concerns me,” said School
Education Web site, the Whit- development] is $81.23, with Committee member William
man-Hanson Regional School a state average of $228.71. Egan, who has three children
District ranked 299th in terms Clearly, this has been a big in the school system. “I’ve
Accuracy watch
of its per-pupil spending. concern with budgets we’ve lived here most of my life but The Whitman Express is committed to accuracy in all its news
“I certainly believe that had in the past,” Gilbert-Whit- I’ve also spent a significant reports. Although numerous safeguards are in place to ensure
in this school district people ner said. amount of time in a more af- accurate reporting, mistakes can occur. If you find a mistake,
do get value for their dollar,” The school district’s larg- fluent community, and you see please alert us by calling 781-293-0240 or e-mail editor@whit-
Gilbert-Whitner said. est expense area was for class- the differences, and sometimes manexpress.com.
According to the Mass. room and specialist teachers, you see the opportunities that
department Web site, the town at 39.7 percent of its overall resources bring.”
with the highest per-pupil cost per-pupil cost — but it is still Egan commended admin-
in FY2010 was Provincetown, more than $800 less than the istrators for finding creative
with about 215 students and state average. ways to live with a lean bud-
$29,118.93 spent per student. One area where the Whit- get, but he said the communi-
The district with the lowest man-Hanson district spends ty should be looking to spend Contact us
per-pupil cost was Douglas, more than the state average more on education, not less.
Send a NEWS item. We welcome all home delivery. Get the Whitman
with about 1,812 students and is for instructional materials, “We’ve got to find a way Whitman-related news releases, an- Express delivered to your mailbox for
$9,133.96 spent for each. equipment and technology, to put more resources into our nouncements, photos or other reader just 34 cents a week. ($18 for one
By comparison, the stu- with about $408 spent per schools, because the future of contributions. E-mail your items to year). Call 781-934-2811 x21 or e-mail
dent populations and per-pu- student for that purpose. The the school district, the future editor@hansonexpress.com. subscribe@whitmanexpress.com.
pil costs for other area towns state average is $393. of our children, the future of
Free CLASSIFIEDS. Place your free Send a letter to the editor.
include: Hanover, 2,759 stu- “One of the things Whit- our families depends on it,” he private-party classified for items Express yourself by writing a letter
dents, $10,411.76; Abington, man-Hanson has is outstand- said. “I feel as a community $500 or less on our Web site at whit- to the editor. All views are welcome.
2,307 students, $10,247.29; ing technology, and it does we have to do better.” manexpress.com. All other classifieds E-mail letters@whitmanexpress.com.
East Bridgewater, 2,460 cost money,” Gilbert-Whitner In other business March 9: start at just $7.50 a week. Order
students, $9,996.09; and said. • The WHRSD School online or call 781-934-2811 during SUBMIT A CALENDAR ITEM. E-mail
normal business hours. events@whitmanexpress.com. The
Pembroke, 3,523 students, However, a large part of Committee voted not to offer deadline is Monday at noon.
$9,953.12. the funding for these materials school choice for the 2011-12 Around Town. We welcome news of
Of the total money spent came from grants and other year, which would have al- your life milestones, including birth- Send aN obituary notice. We do
per student in the Whitman- revolving funds, such as fed- lowed out-of-district students days, anniversaries, births, honor not charge for obituaries or death no-
Hanson district, about 2.3 per- eral stimulus money used to to attend. The superintendent rolls, weddings, promotions, exotic tices. E-mail obits@whitmanexpress.
cent is spent on administra- purchase netbooks for special said with a particularly tight vacations or really big fish. Don’t be com. Photos accepted. Deadline is
shy, please share. Photos too! E-mail noon Tuesday.
tion, Gilbert-Whitner said. education students, the super- budget it would be difficult aroundtown@whitmanexpress.com.
“Oftentimes we get com- intendent said. to know what type of services
ments from people that we are The school system also the district could offer out-of-
Postal Statement
Published weekly by Clipper Press at 11 So. Station St., Duxbury, MA 02332. Periodicals Postage Permit
top-heavy, that all the mon- pays more than the state aver- town students. 021398 issued at Hanson, Mass.
think at Whitman-Hanson that and transportation for students rized the superintendent to
is probably not the case if you requiring services that cannot look into outsourcing custo-
look at those numbers,” she
said.
be provided locally.
“This is something that
dial services with a private
company, which could save
PILGRIM PAVING
3&4*%&/5*"-t$0..&3$*"-
Even less is spent on pro- waxes and wanes,” Gilbert- money.
fessional development, just Whitner said. “We try to have • The superintendent an-
.78 percent — a number the programs where students do nounced that Rockland Trust
- SPRING SPECIAL -
YBSFBMBZFSTPGBTQIBMUPWFSHSBWFM
superintendent said was con- remain in the school system, would be closing its branch
$695
cerning. Over the years, as the but sometimes that isn’t pos- at Whitman-Hanson Regional
district has struggled to bal- sible.” High School at the end of the ESJWFXBZTtQBSLJOHMPUTtTUPOFESJWFXBZTtTFBMDPBUJOHtGSFFXSJUUFOFTUJNBUFT
ance the budget, the schools Several School Commit- 2010-11 year. The company
have relied more on grants for tee members said they did not will donate the furniture and DISCOUNT TO SENIOR CITIZENS 781.982.9898
training and development and like seeing the district’s per- fixtures to the school. AND NON PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS
www.pilgrimpaving.com
Thursday, March 17, 2011 The Express – Your Hometown Newspaper! 3
Help support your hometown newspaper. Please tell our advertisers you saw ‘em in the Express!
4 The Express – Your Hometown Newspaper! Thursday, March 17, 2011
Patricia M. (Chapman) Curtis, 53, of Han- C. Curtis, both of Hanson; her step-daughter, ZZZ6DQG$QG6HD&UXLVHVFRP
son, died Monday, March 14 at Quincy Medical Cynthia J. Curtis-Brown of South Carolina; her
)6767&67
Help support your hometown newspaper. Please tell our advertisers you saw ‘em in the Express!
6 The Express – Your Hometown Newspaper! Thursday, March 17, 2011
/24(/$/.4)#
simple Irish stew where the lamb is truly the star. dents will save $150 per year
on energy costs. For more in-
formation, call 877-545-4113 www.wrightmfg.com
Braised lamb shoulder chops, Irish style or visit masssave.com/recycle. 1190 Bedford Street (Rte 18) • Whitman • 781- 447-1122
½ cup all purpose flour
Salt and pepper
3 tablespoons olive oil or butter
4 lamb shoulder chops, bone-in, about 2 pounds total
( % ! ,4 ( - / . 4 (
Legion baseball
mrfixit156@msn.com
to a 2-quart casserole dish if using a skil- on premises COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATIONS FOR ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT
refreshments will be served. Auction items include Boston Celt- Diane (Shelly) Downing, CNM
earns the praise and respect of parents, families and our
ics tickets, flat screen TV, Keurig coffee brewing system, show
medical colleagues. Care that connects with you as a person,
Esther Hausman, CNM
not just a patient.
tickets and sports memorabilia. Proceeds will provide scholar- Julie Honan, CNM
ships to graduating seniors and monetary support to school pro-
Our expanding team of laborists, obstetricians, gynecologists,
PILGRIM SHORES OB/GYN
physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and certified nurse
grams.
DUXBURY, SANDWICH, PLYMOUTH
Russell Atkin, MD midwives—along with neonatology and maternal-fetal specialists
Tickets at the door are $10 per person, $15 per couple. For Kathryn Atkin, CNP fromTufts Medical Center and Floating Hospital for Children—are
more information, call 781-878-8822. Susan James, DO all dedicated to giving you the experience you deserve. And now,
Brigid McCue, MD, PhD with the addition of South Shore Midwifery & Gynecology,
R 5Ęĕ-đħ0ĖĖęēĕ
3ĕĞĕĕ,.đĘğĞĕĩ
Sidney Nirenberg, MD
Debra Palfrey, PA-C
Katherine Parsons, CNM
Beverley Savage, MD
Jordan Hospital is once again raising the bar for women and their
new families.
Learn more about our maternity and gynecology services at
www.jordanhospital.org/birthplace or call 508-830-2230.
Frank Wilson, MD
Help support your hometown newspaper. Please tell our advertisers you saw ‘em in the Express!
8 The Express – Your Hometown Newspaper! Thursday, March 17, 2011
corresponding craft. Call 781-292-
Thursday March 17 2151, X 106 to register.
Hanson Little League Evaluations.
March 27 at the Hanson Middle
Hanson Senior Center. 9 a.m. School gymnasium. Nine year olds or
Whitman Senior Center. 8:30 a.m. any new players, age 10: last names
hairdresser, 10 a.m. Cracker Barrel,11 food shopping, 9 a.m. manicurist, 11
a.m. St. Patrick’s Day Program and A-L: 12:30–1:30 p.m.; last names
a.m. Dollar Tree and Fresh Catch, M-Z: 1:45– 2:45 p.m. Eight year
luncheon, line dancing, BP clinic at
Expres s
North Easton, 11:30 a.m. lunch, 1 olds looking to move up to Minors:
center. p.m. bingo.
A ca 3–4 p.m. Ten year olds looking to
Whitman Senior Center. 8 a.m. H a n s o le n d a r f o r Meat Raffle. 7:30 p.m., Friday move up to Majors, as well as any
Walk the Park, 9:30 a.m. Vanity Fair n& new players ages 11-12: 4:15–5:15
Calend ar oppsoratnudnvoluntese,r
k s,
d a n c e sh op s, p l ay
‘Little Women.’ 7 p.m., Whitman- Sawtelle at slsawtelle@comcast.net
Strong Women in Literature Book Hanson Regional High School will
Club, for information call 781-447- present “Little Women” by Marisha Whitman-Hanson Education
7613. This month’s selection is “My Chamberlain, a stage adaptation of Foundation Spelling Bee. 6:30-
Name is Mary Sutter” by Robin i t ie s ! 9:30 p.m. March 31, Performing
the novel by Louisa May Alcott.
Oliveria. This group is open to all. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for Arts Center at Whitman-Hanson
children, students and senior citizens. Regional High School. For further
Hanson Girls Softball Registration.
information call Laura Kemmett
a r i te ms
5:30-7 p.m. The final registration for Tickets available at the door, by
a ll c a le n d calling 781-618-8459 or e-mailing at 781-294-1261 or e-mail info@
Hanson Girls Softball for the spring
Se nd
Tue s d ay t o
whrhsdrama@hotmail.com. wheducationfoundation.org.
2011 season will be held at Hanson
by n o o n o n
s .c om .
Middle School. ‘Sadie and the Seventh Son.’ 7:30 Beach Yoga. 9:30 a.m. April 2.
li p p e r p r e s Beach yoga classes with Deb Blauss
e ve n t s@c
Rockland-Hanson Rotary Club. p.m. at the Needles Lodge, Camp
la ble basis. Kiwanee, Route 27,Hanson. Tickets will begin indoors in the library of the
6:30 p.m. on Thursdays at the Olde a sp ace av ai
d on en ts . Needles Lodge at Camp Kiwanee,
Hitching Post Restaurant in Hanson. s are publishe or Han so n ev are $12. Hanson Recreation Drama
Ca le nda r item -c ommerci al Whi tm an Route 58, Hanson. Classes will move
fo r non and the Friends of Camp Kiwanee
Preference is outside to the beach when weather
will present an original murder
Friday March 18 mystery. Proceeds benefit restoration permits. Classes are sponsored by the
of Camp Kiwanee and its waterfront. Hanson Recreation Commission and
Hanson Senior Center. 9 a.m.
For tickets call 781-293-2333 or the cost $10.
hairdresser, 9:30 a.m. card games, 10
a.m. cribbage, 1 p.m. bingo. Jimmy Tingle and features both live 11:30 a.m. lunch, 12 p.m. Attorney 781-447-3915. Annual Cookie and Craft Fair.
and silent auctions. Ticket cost is Whitney by appointment, computer Saturday, April 2 from 9:30 a.m. to
Hanson Library. 10-10:30 a.m. Wee $100. Price includes one drink ticket class, knitting/crocheting, bowling. South Shore Vo-Tech Silent Auction.
7 p.m. at the Whitman Knights of 2:30 p.m. at the East Bridgewater
Readers for ages 0-3, drop in with and a seated, four-course meal. All
Columbus Hall, Route 18, Whitman. United Methodist Church, 54
caregiver, for stories, finger play are welcome. For more information Rep. Geoff Diehl District Hours:
9-10 a.m., Whitman Senior Center. The South Shore Vocational Technical North Central St. Visitors browse
and song. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Craft- and to buy tickets, visit bchigh.edu/
For questions, call Legislative Aide High School Parents’ Association 2nd various craft tables and may choose
a-story for ages 3-7, Alpha Tales: shamrocker.
Lynnel Cox at 781-261-3103 or Annual Silent Auction will be held. from hundreds of homemade cookies
read alphabet stories and make a
stop by the district office at 529 Enjoy a night of fun and fundraising to fill a box of favorites for $6. All
corresponding craft. Call 781-292-
2151, X 106 to register.
Sunday March 20 Washington St. Whitman. with entertainment provided by DJ are welcome.
‘Sadie and the Seventh Son.’ 3 Bob Caldaria, “The Man of Many ‘Dancing with the Angels.’ 6:30-11
Whitman Senior Center. 8:30 a.m. Hanson Food Pantry. 10:30 a.m.- Hats.” Light refreshments will be
p.m. at the Needles Lodge, Camp 12 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at First Baptist p.m. on Saturday, April 2. The second
food shopping, 11 a.m. Venus III in Kiwanee, Route 58, Hanson. Tickets served. Tickets at the door are $10
Church, Main Street. annual “Dancing with the Angels”
Hanson, 11:30 a.m. lunch, 1 p.m. are $12. Hanson Recreation Drama per person, $15 per couple. For more benefit will be held at the Tirrell
bingo. and the Friends of Camp Kiwanee 5:45 information, call 781-878-8822.
Tea Party Meeting. Room, 254 Quarry St., Quincy.
Meat Raffle. 7:30 p.m., Friday will present an original murder p.m. at Oliveira’s Restaurant, Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, dancing and
at Robinson Street in Hanson. mystery. Proceeds benefit restoration Pembroke. Meet, greet and Upcoming events the music of the 14-piece White
Sponsored by the Hanson American of Camp Kiwanee and its waterfront. have dinner; the meeting will begin Heat swing orchestra and a dancing
For tickets call 781-293-2333 or 781- at 6:45 p.m. All are welcome. For ‘Sadie and the Seventh Son.’ competition featuring the Visiting
Legion 226. Saturday, March 26 at 7:30 p.m. and
447-3915. more information, visit the Web site Angels staff doing Latin dancing.
‘Sadie and the Seventh Son.’ 7:30 at plymouthtp.ning.com. Sunday, March 27 at 3 p.m. at the This fundraising event supports the
Needles Lodge in Camp Kiwanee,
p.m. at the Needles Lodge in Camp Monday March 21 Hanson. Tickets are $12. Hanson
Special Needs Fund of Old Colony
Kiwanee, Hanson. Tickets are $12.
An original murder mystery will be Hanson Senior Center. 10 a.m.
Wednesday March 23 Recreation Drama and the Friends
Elder Services and South Shore Elder
Services. Tickets are $50 and may
presented by Hanson Recreation chorus rehearsal, 1 p.m. Tai Chi Hanson Senior Center. 9:30 a.m. of Camp Kiwanee will present an be purchased at Old Colony Elder
Drama and the Friends of Camp and knitting group, Welcome Spring card games, 10 a.m. poker, Cracker original murder mystery. Proceeds Services. For more information,
Kiwanee. Proceeds benefit restoration karaoke party Barrel breakfast, 1 p.m. party time benefit restoration of Camp Kiwanee contact Lucille Dallaire at OCES
of Camp Kiwanee and its waterfront. with Henry, 1:30 exercise with Cindie and its waterfront. For tickets call 508-584-1561.
For tickets call 781-293-2333 or 781- Hanson Library. 9:30 a.m. Yoga ($5). 781-293-2333 or 781-447-3915.
447-3915. stories, ages 3+, registration required; Hanson Rotary Club Comedy
call 781-293-2151 or e-mail info@ Whitman Senior Center. 7:30 a.m. ‘Little Women.’ Whitman- Night. 7-10:30 p.m. on Saturday, April
hansonlibrary.org. center pick up, 7:45 a.m. home pick Hanson Regional High School will
Saturday March 19 up for Foxwoods Casino, 10 a.m. present “Little Women” by Marisha
9 at the VFW on Essex St, Whitman
featuring three top comedians, raffles
Whitman Senior Center. 9 a.m. chair yoga,11:30 a.m. lunch, 1 p.m. Chamberlain, a stage adaptation of
The Life of Jackie Kennedy. 1-3 and prizes. Tickets are $25, which
around town, 10 a.m. Wii bowling, Bingo at Harvard Court, Mah-Jongg. the novel by Louisa May Alcott, on
p.m. at the Whitman Public Library. includes pizza. For tickets call Peter
11 a.m.-1 p.m. blood pressure clinic, Saturday, March 26 at 7 p.m. and
Celebrate National Women’s History at 781-293-3551. Proceeds benefit
11:30 a.m. lunch, 1 p.m. bingo. Whitman-Hanson Kiwanis Club. Sunday, March 27 at 2 p.m. Tickets
Month with a talk about the life of local charities.
6:15 p.m. at the Hitching Post are $8 for adults and $5 for children,
first lady Jacqueline Kennedy. No Whitman Library. 1-2 p.m. Uno, Restaurant. For more information, students and senior citizens. Tickets
registration is required for this event. Dos, Tres Spanish Story Hour. Call call Mike at 781-447-6501. available at the door, by calling 781-
Jessi Finnie at 781-447-7613 for 618-8459 or e-mailing whrhsdrama@
Meat Raffle and Boston Celtics information.
Tickets Raffle. 2-4 p.m. at Damien’s, Thursday March 24 hotmail.com.
Hanson. The Whitman Panthers Hanson American Legion Post 226.
Baseball Road to Cooperstown 7 p.m. the third Monday of the month Hanson Senior Center. 9 a.m. TEEN NIGHT FRIDAY, MARCH 18TH 7-10:30 P.M. GR. 7-12
Team will hold a meat raffle. Also, at 92 Robinson St., Hanson. hairdresser, 10 a.m. Cracker Barrel,
drawing will be held of a premium physical therapy seminar, line AQUA BOOT CAMP STARTING UP
pair of Celtics tickets for the March Whitman Republican Town dancing. ON MARCH 22ND 7:15-8:15 PM
23 game. Loge, Section 1! Basketball Committee. 7:30 p.m. on the third for the fit looking for a challenge. Ages 14+.
Monday of each month at the senior Whitman Senior Center. 8 a.m.
raffle tickets are $5. No need to be Walk the Park, 9 Wareham Crossing
SIGN UP FOR SMALL FRY NURSERY SCHOOL
present to win. For information, visit center on Hayden Avenue. For more IN SEPTEMBER.
information, call Steven Bois at 781- and Ansel Gurney House, a.m. 11:30
whitmanpanthers.com. a.m. lunch, 12:30-3:30 p.m. brown
Your child will be engaged in arts & crafts, story time, fitness, dramatic play,
447-4719. science, swimming, math, puzzles, gross motor and lots more!
‘Sadie and the Seventh Son.’ bag pick up. For more information please call our Child Care Director, Karen Pimentel.
7:30 p.m. at the Needles Lodge,
Camp Kiwanee, Route 58, Hanson.
Tuesday March 22 Rockland-Hanson Rotary Club. CAMP SATUCKET WILL BE CELEBRATING ITS
36TH YEAR AT THE EAST BRIDGEWATER YMCA.
6:30 p.m. on Thursdays at the Olde
Tickets are $12. An original murder Hanson Senior Center. 9 a.m. nails Hitching Post Restaurant in Hanson. Camp plays a huge role in each camper’s development into a
mystery will be presented by Hanson by Julie, 9:30 a.m. card games, 10 a.m. succesful adult. It gives kids the opportunity to explore nature, find
Recreation Drama and the Friends beginner’s bridge, 1 p.m. bowling at
Friday March 25
new talents, and try new activities, gain independence, and make
of Camp Kiwanee. Proceeds benefit the Hanson Athletic Association. lasting friendships and memories.
restoration of Camp Kiwanee and its Hanson Senior Center. 9 a.m.
COME JOIN US AT AN OPEN HOUSE:
waterfront. For tickets call 781-293- Hanson Library. 1:30 p.m. Yoga
Stories, ages 3+, registration required, hairdresser, 9:30 a.m. card games, 10 Sat. April 2nd 12-2 pm & Sat. April 16th 12-2 pm
2333 or 781-447-3915. a.m. cribbage, 1 p.m. bingo.
Sat. April 30th 12-2 pm & Sat. May 14th 12-2 pm
call 781-293-2151 or e-mail info@ Sat. May 21st 12-2 pm & Sat. June 4th 12-2 pm
A Benefit for BC High. 6 p.m., hansonlibrary.org. Hanson Library. 10-10:30 a.m. Wee CHOOSE THE MEMBERSHIP THAT BUILDS SPIRIT, MIND, AND BODY. JOIN TODAY!!!
Boston College High School will Readers for ages 0-3, drop in with CONTACT OUR MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR, PATRICK MURPHY FOR MORE INFORMA-
hold its biennial gala auction, The Whitman Senior Center. 8 a.m.
Walk the park, 9 a.m. hairdresser, art caregiver, for stories, finger play TION OR STOP BY FOR A FULL TOUR AND SEE ALL WE HAVE TO OFFER.
Shamrocker, on the BC High Campus, and song. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Craft-
150 Morrissey Blvd., Dorchester. The class, State Rep. Geoff Diehl, 10 a.m.
Castle Island, line dancing at Legion, a-story for ages 3-7, Alpha Tales: East Bridgewater Family YMCA
evening will be emceed by comedian read alphabet stories and make a 0LYMOUTH 3TREET s
Thursday, March 17, 2011 The Express – Your Hometown Newspaper! 9
K of C goes green
W
ith St. Patrick’s Day
less than a week
away, members of
the Cardinal Spellman Council
347 Knights of Columbus hosted
locals for a fun evening of din-
ner and dance, serving up corned
beef and cabbage at their annual
Irish Night on Friday, March 11
at the Whitman K of C Hall. After
dinner, the Boston-based group
The Wild Rovers performed Irish
songs and other classic tunes as
those in attendance took a spin on
the dance floor. Later, Irish step
dancers from Maureen Haley’s
Whitman School of Irish Dance
performed for the crowd.
At right, Patricia and
Thomas Riley show off their
dance moves.
At 93, Agnes McCorkle didn’t shy from the dance floor, as she and
her daughter — also named Agnes McCorkle — take a spin to the
tune “When Irish Eyes Are Smiling.”
Members of the Cardinal Spellman Council 347 Knights of Columbus Larry Roache, Tom Doolin,
Grand Knight Warren Kennedy, Hank Walther, Jerry Kelley and Jerry Butts take a break from serving
up corned beef and cabbage in the kitchen of the Whitman K of C Hall.
Craig MacGilvray,
Nicole
Stankewicz, Trisha
Stankewicz, Ed
MacGilvray, Trisha
Grimmett and
Steve Grimmett
have plenty of
green on in cel-
ebration of St.
Knight John Powers delivers pieces of green-and-white St.
Patrick’s Day.
Patrick’s Day cake after dinner.
Ann MacDonald, Russell Blake, Doug and Kayla Pigeon and Eddie Knights of Columbus member Bill Roberson, Knights District Deputy Paul Flanagan and council
Murphy get ready for some St. Patrick’s Day cake. chaplain Father Martin Connor chat at the dinner/dance.
Help support your hometown newspaper. Please tell our advertisers you saw ‘em in the Express!
10 The Express – Your Hometown Newspaper! Thursday, March 17, 2011
q u e s t i o n o f t h e w ee k By Linda Bertino
Bob Doran Nathan Wheeler Dave Clay Steve Lincoln Mike Bastek
Harvard Street, Whitman Washington Street CVS, Whitman Pierce Avenue, Hanson Main Street, Hanson
“Yes, there’s too much money at “I’m not sure with all the contract “Yes, I believe there will be. “I would certainly hope so and “I don’t care; I don’t follow foot-
stake for it not to happen.” issues, but hopefully there is.” There’s too much at stake.” I hope the coaches and players ball and they all make too much
come to terms soon.” money anyway.”
S
Tuesday at noon.
ince last Friday morning we have watched and lis-
tened to the radio and television news reports coming
out of Japan describing the incredible natural disas-
ters of a 9.0 Richter Scale earthquake, apparently the fourth
largest in recorded history, followed by a tsunami sweeping
Collective bargaining rights are extremely
miles inland with a wall of water up to 30 feet important —————————————
T
or more in height multiplying the damage and
loss of life to an as yet unknown dimension. As his letter is written in response to place could suffer and much more.
if these two events were not enough, the col- Emery Maddocks’ article, “Get- Unionized workers do not look at this bill
lateral damage has caused the apparent destruct ting Real: Something’s got to give.” as a way to reduce the states’ deficit but more
of three nuclear power generation plants and What is happening in Madison, Wisconsin is as an attack against unions. They believe that
By Emery Maddocks
danger to a fourth. There is the very real pos- certainly very intriguing. I agree with newly Walker intends to hurt the unions because he
sibility of a core meltdown and the release of elected Governor Scott Walker that something blames public employees that take advantage
dangerous radiation into the atmosphere. should be done about the state of Wisconsin’s of the system for why the deficit has become
The Japanese island of Honshu, where these disasters 3.6 billion dollar deficit. What I do not agree so high. I definitely agree with what Maddocks
occurred, has a climate similar to ours so the winter weather with is the method by which he plans on cutting says in the article that public employees do take
is compounding the suffering of the deficit. Removing state employees’ collec- advantage of the system through ways such as
hundreds of thousands of people Getting real
tive bargaining rights is definitely not the way pension abuse, police detail abuse and pay rais-
as this situation unfolds. The economic impact is beyond esti- to go. Walker’s proposed budget repair bill will es in times of economic downturn. Something
mation at this point, but we do know that in excess of 100,000
cause a lot of other problems if in fact collec- needs to be done about this issue but complete-
buildings have been destroyed or severely damaged, thousands
tive bargaining rights are taken away. To pub- ly removing collective bargaining rights from
are dead and thousands more are injured and the Japanese stock
market is in free fall. Normal life is a long journey away for a lic employees, collective bargaining rights are public employees is not the answer. In my opin-
large area of Japan. extremely important and they view these rights ion, Walker’s budget repair bill needs amend-
Besides the normal empathy we feel for our fellow hu- as a form of protection. Without these rights, ing.
man beings, a disaster as has befallen Japan should force us public employees could lose their benefits, their Patrick West
to all get real about our own situation. We all can appreciate wages could be cut back, safety in the work- Barker Street, Pembroke
that everything is relative, but let’s think about this. Japan is
among the most developed nations in the world. Almost the
County government solvent through FY2011
T
entire nation and its economic infrastructure have been rebuilt
from the ashes of World War II. They are a leader in engineer- he Plymouth County Commission- percent have been agreed on by department
ing and technology and have a highly educated and disciplined ers held their weekly meeting on heads, as well as other targeted cuts. The com-
population. Their economy is third largest in the world. Yet, in Tuesday, March 15 in Plymouth. missioners will hold weekly budget hearings
the blink of an eye, it all changed. Lifetimes of hard work and Commissioners had expressed concerns about beginning March 24. The commissioners also
material gain disappeared in minutes, livelihoods vanished. the financial solvency of county government approved appointments to the Board of Trust-
Cultural icons disappeared forever. Families and friends were
for the remainder of FY2011 ending June 30. ees of the Cooperative Extension 4H Program
torn apart. In relative terms it makes our own situation look
County Administrator Gerald Chipman and for John Burnett, Joseph Freitas, Janice Strojny
pretty good doesn’t it?
Disasters as in Japan give us the rare opportunity to take Treasurer Thomas O’Brien jointly reported and Jeffrey Chandler. The next commissioners
stock of how good we have it. They give us an opportunity to that the county should be financially solvent meeting is March 24 in Plymouth. See Plym-
re-evaluate life priorities, ambitions and values. It may be a through FY2011 and provided new documenta- outhCountyMass.US for more information.
good time to take stock of what is really important in our lives; tion to support their report. The administrator Anthony O’Brien, Lieut. Cdr.,
material things vs. emotional well being; selfish interests vs. also presented the initial draft of the FY2012 US Navy Seals (Ret.)
family and community; for believers, a time to reconnect with budget beginning July 1. Budget cuts of 10 Plymouth County Commissioner
spiritual values. To use a now shopworn term, this is a “teach-
able moment.” We probably shouldn’t waste it.
Japan will rebuild. Its trading partners will help it do so. Its
Collector’s office closure
economy is basically sound. It will be interesting to see if there The town (tax) collector’s office will be DPW yard open for
is a catharsis from the legendary Japanese work ethic to a new closed on Wednesday, March 23 due to staff
view that prioritizes time with family and loved ones, at least training requirements. The collector’s office will residential leaf disposal
on a par with career advancement. be open from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. on Monday, March The Whitman Department of Public
21, from 8 a.m.-7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 22, Works Yard at 100 Essex St. will be open
and from 8 a.m.-4 p.m, on Thursday and Friday, on Saturdays, for residents only, beginning
March 24 and 25.
April 2 through June 25 from 7 a.m.–3 p.m.
Lenten reflections for disposal of leaves and grass clippings.
No brush, limbs or bushes will be accepted.
On Friday, March 11 and every Friday dur- Compost permits are $2 at the DPW yard.
ing Lent, Holy Ghost Parish will host an evening Bring vehicle registration with you. Regu-
of Lenten reflections at 7 p.m. in Father Glennon lar hours for leaves and grass clippings
Hall on School Street. Weekly speakers will dis- are also Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-3 p.m. If
cuss themes corresponding to Lent and includes you have any questions, call the Whitman
prayer, discussion and reflection. All are wel- DPW office at 781-447-7630.
come. Refreshments will be served.
Thursday, March 17, 2011 The Express – Your Hometown Newspaper! 11
Lunch Menus
Week of March 21
All schools
Monday: Popcorn chicken with dipping sauce, rice pilaf, corn, apple
Send School news & Photos to slices with cinnamon, orange halves.
whroster@hansonexpress.com
the Deadline is Monday at noon. Tuesday: American chop suey, garlic bread, tossed salad, fresh apple,
chilled fruit.
Wednesday: Chicken stir fry, brown rice pilaf, green beans with cheese
sauce, pineapple tidbits, chilled fruit.
What’s happening at WMS Thursday: Oven fried chicken, mashed potatoes, peas, apple crisp, blue-
berries with whipped topping, raisins.
Friday: Cheese pizza, tossed salad, celery sticks with dipping sauce,
Library news grades six and seven spring chilled applesauce.
The Library has been busy fundraiser with Otis Spunk-
this winter, not only check- Principally meier cookies. These funds
ing out almost 5,000 books Speaking will go toward the purchase School lunch pricing for 2010-2011 is: Elementary schools, $1.75,
but with many class projects. of interactive whiteboards for middle schools, $2 and high school, $2.25. Call the office if you have
Currently on display are some our ICT and SSC classrooms. any questions about how to apply for the free or reduced lunch program
at 781-618-7431 or 7477, or e-mail deborah.seger@whrsd.org
great “Inter- Mrs. Amadei’s sixth grade Nurse’s Corner:
active World” classes are currently reading Margaret Baker RN
monuments
constructed
“The Lightning Thief” in the
library while students study
The WMS clinic is in the
process of completing all re-
Hall of Fame nominees
by Mrs. My- Ancient Greece in social stud- quired health screenings man- The Whitman High School/Whitman-Hanson Regional
ette’s social ies. Students are participating dated by the state. These in- High School Alumni Association offers residents an opportu-
studies class- in Web quests about the gods clude the vision and hearing nity to nominate people for the Whitman-Hanson Graduate Hall
By George Farro es. They take and goddesses and completing screenings for seventh grad- of Fame. The Hall of Fame was established in 1984 to honor
Principal
Whitmsn Middle us on a sight- events projects using Inspira- ers and scoliosis screenings. graduates of Whitman High School and Whitman-Hanson Re-
School seeing tour of tion in Ms. Makuch’s technol- You will be receiving a letter gional High School who have achieved success in their fields.
Europe’s fin- ogy classes. shortly if your child requires The more than 30 graduates inducted represent a wide variety of
est historical attractions. The library has many new further examination. occupations and interests including medicine, the law, education
The sixth grade students in and exciting books and maga- The Commonwealth of business and the entertainment industry.
Mrs. Amadei’s classes traveled zines for students and staff to Mass. requires that all stu- Graduates of Whitman High School and Whitman-Hanson
back to medieval Korea while read this year. Some of the dents entering seventh grade Regional High School are eligible for the Hall of Fame 10 years
reading “A Single Shard.” new books are Guinness World must be fully immunized in after graduation. Persons interested in nominating someone for
They studied the history of Records 2011, Rick Riordan’s order to attend school. There the Hall of Fame must write a letter of recommendation to the
Korea and looked at the DMZ “The Red Pyramid” about an- are several immunizations Alumni Association stating the reasons they believe the candi-
on Google Earth. Since the fo- cient Egypt, and the third book that are required for entrance date is worthy of the honor. A separate letter must be written for
cus of the book was celadon of the “Hunger Games” series into seventh grade. All sixth each person being nominated. The letters will be kept on file for
pottery, the students sculpted “Mockingjay.” Newly ac- grade parents will be informed two years.
and glazed clay pots in Mrs. quired magazines are Popular shortly of these requirements This year’s Hall of Fame ceremony will be part of the Na-
Dallin’s art classes. We antici- Science, Dirt Bike, BMX Plus, via the Web site. tional Honor Society Induction, which will be held May 16 at 7
pate a Korean festival as the Girl’s Life and Dig. These Please send in your child’s p.m. in the Performing Arts Center at the high school. The dead-
culminating activity, which books and magazines are be- seventh grade physical exam line for submitting letters of recommendation is April 8. If you
will include Korean music, ing read and enjoyed by all. form to the clinic if you have any questions, call Richard Rosen ’70 at 781-447-1111. All
food eaten from the clay pots haven’t already done so. letters should be sent to: WH/WHRHS Alumni Association, P.O.
using chopsticks, and a movie News from guidance
MCAS testing for grades As always, please call Ms. Box 53, Whitman, MA 02382.
about North Korea. Baker with any questions/con-
Mrs. McGaffigan and Mrs. 6, 7, 8 in ELA will be March
22-24. Please make sure your cerns you may have concern-
Thornton took their classes ing the health of your child at
on a trip around the universe children are well rested and
eat a good breakfast. In May, 781-618-7633.
while studying the planets and
reading the novel “George’s we will have the math and sci- 2011 Student Council
Secret Key to the Universe.” ence MCAS tests for grades Hannah Cotter, President
Display boards decorated the 6-8 from May 10-16. Mike Seele, Vice President Go GREEN
library and were enjoyed by This year, 25 seventh and Paulette Iannone, Secretary with Soma Haircare
all. eighth graders took the SAT Nate Almeida, Treasurer • pH balanced
This year, the library is tests through the Johns Hop- After-school programs • 100% vegan
hosting a knitting group. The kins Talent Search programs. Monday: basketball and • 100% Biodegradable
members consisting of sixth, SSVT interviews took spring track
seventh and eighth grade stu- place in February and accept- Tuesday: Wiffle Ball,
dents meet each week to knit ed students should be hearing morning fitness 6:40 a.m.
and learn new stitches. This from the school shortly. Wednesday: super sports,
month the group began knit- PAC info creative cooking
ting squares, which will be The next meeting will be Thursday: drama, spring 587 Washington St., Whitman Center
made into blankets for our March 28 at WMS at 7 p.m. track 781-447-1100 JohnRussellStudio.com
soldiers overseas. We are just concluding the Morning fitness 6:40 a.m.
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12 The Express – Your Hometown Newspaper! Thursday, March 17, 2011
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