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Local news you may be interested in.  Updated: Friday, April 12, 2024 

Photos/EverythingWestport.com except as noted.

 

Our Community Theater and Arts page is back on-line!!!!

 

Visit our regularly updated Theater and Arts Section, and plan your event schedule!

New galleries and art venues added for 2023.

 

View EverythingWestport.com videos on your mobile device and PC!

 

Current Westport Weather 

Forecast as of 3:59 p.m. Friday, April 12, 2024

 

 

 

Click here for more forecast information 

 

 

Free COVID rapid test kits

Hey Westporters:  Free COVID rapid test kits are available right here in town!  Test kits can be picked up at the Nurse’s Office: Mon., Wed., Thurs., Fri. (Closed Tues.) 8:30 am – 2:30 pm; or the Board of Health Office: Mon. Tues., Thurs. Fri. (Closed Wed.) 8:30 am – 4:00 pm.

 

Comparative Charts updated March 29, 2024

 

Massachusetts Daily Respiratory Illness Dashboard Sunday, March 29, 2024

 

Current Massachusetts Department of Public Health | Respiratory Illness Dashboard

The COVID-19 Dashboard includes data on city/town COVID-19 activity, confirmed and probable cases of COVID-19, confirmed and probable deaths related to COVID-19, and the demographic characteristics of cases and deaths.

COVID-19 testing patterns have changed over time. Current case counts include reports of people tested with a molecular test (confirmed cases) and those tested by a health care provider using an antigen test (probable cases). Individuals testing themselves using at-home antigen tests are not included. Case counts represent only a portion of people with COVID-19 and should be interpreted with caution. Current case counts should not be compared to earlier parts of the pandemic.

 

Note: All respiratory disease related dashboards are updated once per week on Thursdays. 

 

Massachusetts Daily COVID-19 cases through Tuesday, March 28, 2024

Current Massachusetts Department of Public Health | Respiratory Illness Dashboard

The COVID-19 Dashboard includes data on city/town COVID-19 activity, confirmed and probable cases of COVID-19, confirmed and probable deaths related to COVID-19, and the demographic characteristics of cases and deaths.

COVID-19 testing patterns have changed over time. Current case counts include reports of people tested with a molecular test (confirmed cases) and those tested by a health care provider using an antigen test (probable cases). Individuals testing themselves using at-home antigen tests are not included. Case counts represent only a portion of people with COVID-19 and should be interpreted with caution. Current case counts should not be compared to earlier parts of the pandemic.

 

Note: All respiratory disease related dashboards are updated once per week on Thursdays. 

 

Westport Case rate to-date during this season: 875.2 per 100,000 residents

 

 

Headline News

 

Friday, April 12, 2024

 

Click here to refresh this page for the latest information!

 

Today’s Quote:

 

The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be.

- Ralph Waldo Emerson

 

Friday, April 12 – OBITUARY

A person with a mustache

Description automatically generatedEverythingWestport wishes to note the passing of Kenneth W. Costa 82, of Westport, Ma. passed away on April 5, 2024, at home after a battle with Parkinson’s Disease and Dementia, he was surrounded by his loving family.

 

Ken was born on July 1, 1941 to Florence and Americo Perry in New Bedford, MA. He grew up in New Bedford and graduated from New Bedford High School in 1959. After high school Ken joined the United States Marine Corp and served 3 years active duty and 3 years inactive. After the Marines Ken went on to study Electrical Engineering at Southeastern Massachusetts University (SMU).

 

Ken worked for 35 years at the Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) Division Newport as an Electronics Technician and retired in 1997.

 

He and his wife of 56 years, Magdalen Nogueira Costa lived in Westport, MA, and Little Compton, RI where they raised their 2 sons, before retiring to Hillsville, VA.

 

Ken was an avid bike rider and runner who was often seen running or biking all year long. He was famously known for the icicles that would form on his mustache while running in the winter months. Ken ran countless road races and biked in countless century rides. But his proudest moment was completing the 100th anniversary of the Boston Marathon.

 

When Ken wasn’t running his other hobbies were restoring and collecting antique cars in which he had 9 at the time of his illness. Ken was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan and loved to listen to the Boston Red Sox on the radio.

 

Ken is survived by his wife of 56 years Magdalen Nogueira Costa of Westport, MA, His 2 sons, Kenneth W. Costa Jr. and wife Annie of Westport, MA and Jeffrey D. Costa and wife Danielle of Middletown, RI. His 4 grandchildren, Matthew and Molly Costa of Westport, MA and Grayson and Cameron Costa of Middletown, RI, his sister Sandra Moniz of New Bedford, MA and brother David Costa and wife Catherine of Acushnet, MA, along with nieces and nephews.

 

Memorial Mass of Christian Burial to which relatives and friends are invited will be Tuesday, April 23, 2024 at St. John the Baptist Church Westport at 11:00 A.M.

 

Memorial visitation will be Monday, April 22, 2024 at the Potter Funeral Home from 4-7 P.M

 

Interment will be in Beech Grove Cemetery, Westport.

 

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Southcoast VNA Hospice 200 Mill Rd. Fairhaven, Ma. 02719.

 

Friday, April 12 – OBITUARY

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Description automatically generatedEverythingWestport wishes to note the passing of Ernest W. Sennett, Sr., 82, of Westport who passed away on Tuesday, April 9, 2024 at Catholic Memorial Home. He was the beloved husband of the late Claire M. (Cahill) Sennett.

 

Mr. Sennett was born in Houlton, ME son of the late John O. and Ethel P. (Terrill) Sennett and had been a longtime resident of Westport. He served his country in the U.S. Air Force. He had worked at Sikorsky Aircraft in Bridgeport, CT, Raytheon, RI, St. Vincent de Paul Camp, Westport and retired from St. Vincent's Home, Fall River. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting and fishing and had a great sense of humor. He will be remembered for his dedication to his family especially his late wife, she was his whole world.

 

Survivors include his son: Ernest W. Sennett, Jr. and his wife Linda of Crestview, FL; his 2 daughters; Anne M. Bahm and her husband Bracy of MN and Karen L. Chretien and her husband Brian of Assonet; siblings: Alan Sennett, Velma Nason, Lynda Schools, Barbara Foster and Phyllis Hershey, all of Houlton, ME; 5 grandchildren: Michael, Rachel, Krista, Ashley and Katlin; 2 great grandchildren: Layla and Luna; along with many nieces and nephews.

 

He was the grandfather of the late Amanda Sennett and brother of the late Donna Sennett, Keith Sennett, Jim Sennett, Duane Sennett, Buddy Sennett, Wendell Sennett and Mike Sennett.

 

The Family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff at Catholic Memorial Home for the compassionate care they gave to both Mr. and Mrs. Sennett.

 

Mass of Christian Burial to which relatives and friends are invited will be Tuesday, April 16, 2024 at St. John the Baptist Church, Westport at 11:00 A.M.

 

Visitation will be Tuesday, at the Potter Funeral Home from 9:30-10:30 A.M. prior to the Mass.

 

Interment in Beech Grove Cemetery, Westport.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Patient Care-Southcoast Centers for Cancer Care, 506 Prospect St., Fall River, MA 02720.

 

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Friday, April 12 – Today is National Big Wind Day!

Observed each year in the United States on April 12th, National Big Wind Day commemorates the recording of the highest natural wind gust measured on the Earth’s surface.  On the afternoon of April 12, 1934, the Mount Washington Observatory recorded winds at 231 miles per hour!

Mount Washington is the highest peak in the Northeastern United States at 6,288 ft, and it is the most prominent mountain east of the Mississippi River.

 

Thursday, April 11 - Results of 2024 Westport Town Elections

Brewer, Dutra, and Stanton-Cross step up to the plate as Westport’s newest Selectpersons.

Congratulations to all. Blanks were second highest vote count; go figure!

 

In a dramatic turn of events Westport voters say NO to debt exclusion ballot question override.

 

The ballot question asked voters if they would approve a tax debt exclusion exempting Westport from the state's Proposition 2½ legislation — dictating communities cannot raise property taxes over 2.5% over the previous year — in order to fund $35,000,000 for the "Westport Route 6 Sewer and Water Project." The project would bring town sewer infrastructure to Route 6, where its absence has been said to be "a barrier to economic development," as highlighted in the 2016 Westport Master Plan, according to the town website.

 

Oh well, back to the drawing board.

 

A solar eclipse in the sky

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Monday. April 8 - The total solar eclipse is today: Get the latest forecast and everything you need to know HERE

 

WESTPORT - The total eclipse will begin in Mexico at about 11:07 a.m. PDT, Monday before crossing into Texas at 1:27 p.m. CDT. It will end in Maine at 3:35 p.m. EDT. The partial eclipse will last for awhile longer. Even if you're not in the path of totality and won't see the full eclipse, you may still see a percentage of it.

 

Map shows the area affected by a 4.8 earthquake, centered in New Jersey, on April 5, 2024. / Credit: USGS

April 6, 2024 - Aftershocks rattle Northeast after rare 4.8 magnitude earthquake hits region

There have been at least 18 aftershocks since the quake, including a 4.0 magnitude, the USGS said Friday night. There is a 74% chance of magnitude 3 and above aftershocks happening within the next week.

 

Don’t worry — this is normal.

 

Aftershocks are a series of smaller quakes that follow the larger “mainshock” of an earthquake, and the ones that happened overnight all fell below a magnitude of 2.

 

While the main earthquake was felt as far away as Massachusetts, the overnight seismic activity was centered closer to the Ramapo fault.

 

Above: State Senator Michael Rodrigues recommends that Westport voters approve the water and sewer project for the Route 6 area on Tuesday, April 9th.


Friday, April 5 - Westport Finance Committee won't support $35M Route 6 project

WESTPORT SHORELINES – Westport - Six days before voters head to the polls to decide the fate of the $35 million Route 6 sewer and water debt exclusion, members of the Westport Finance Committee said Wednesday night that they will not support the project at next month’s Town Meeting.

 

Tuesday’s debt exclusion question, if passed, is the first of two steps necessary to authorize the town to borrow up to $35 million for the project, which would install a water and sewer “trunk” line from Fall River and run it along the corridor east to the Dartmouth town line. For it to proceed, residents also need to approve a warrant article at Town Meeting which, if passed, would allow the town to appropriate the funds.

 

But on Wednesday night, a majority of fincom members said they have too many questions to support the project right now, and the committee ultimately rejected a motion to support the project by a 3-6 vote.

 

“I don’t need convincing of the importance of water and sewer “My challenge is with what’s happened here is that we’re not looking at this fiscally.” - Chairwoman Karen Raus

 

While most members said they support the concept of providing modern sewer and water infrastructure along the Route 6 corridor, fincom members said Wednesday that there are just too many unknowns for them to get behind it now, including why the project quickly and late in the game grew from a three-phase, independently funded series of projects, to an all-or-nothing $35 million behemoth.

Read More . . .

 

Thursday, April 4, 2024 - Obituary

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Description automatically generatedEverythingWestport wishes to note the passing of James R. Kemble, 79, of Westport, who passed away on Saturday, March 30, 2024 at Miriam Hospital in Providence. He was the husband of Carole A. (de Villers) Kemble.

 

Born in Worcester, MA, son of the late Ernest J. and Genevieve (Pigoga) Kemble, he had lived in Westport since 1984. A United States Army veteran of the Vietnam War, he served in Korea from 1962-1963, where he had security clearance for tactical nuclear weapons. Prior to retirement, he worked for Veritiv in Worcester. Mr. Kemble was a charter fishing captain on his boat: The Eastern Viking and he enjoyed flying his airplane.

 

Including his wife, he is survived by 2 sons: Jesse J. Kemble and his wife Kristen of La Jolla, CA and David J. Kemble and his wife Mari of Wellesley, MA; 2 grandchildren: Lola and Marcus; and several nieces and nephews.

 

Funeral to which relatives and friends are invited will be Friday, April 5, 2024 at the Potter Funeral Home at 12:00 P.M.

 

Visitation will be Friday from 10:00 A.M. - 12:00 P.M. prior to the funeral.

 

Interment will be in Beech Grove Cemetery, Westport.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Wounded Warrior Project. https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org

 

Thursday, April 4, 2024 - Obituary

A person in a pink shirt

Description automatically generatedEverythingWestport wishes to note the passing of Daniel "Dan" Pontes, Jr., 78, of Westport, who passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family, on Saturday, March 30, 2024 at Charlton Memorial Hospital. He was the husband of Diane (Peloquin) Pontes, they were married for 55 years.

Born in Fall River, son of the late Joseph D. Pontes, Sr. and the late Ida (Costa) Pontes, he had lived in Westport since 1972. Prior to retirement, he was a teacher and coach at Joseph Case High School in Swansea for 30 years, where he taught science and coached Girl's Track and J.V. Baseball. He was a Communicant of St. John the Baptist Church, Westport. Mr. Pontes was an avid reader and was a former member of the Westport School Committee and a former member of the Westport Lions Club. His greatest enjoyment was spending time with his grandchildren.

Including his wife, he is survived by a son: Jeffrey Pontes and his wife Colleen of Fort Collins, CO; 2 brothers: Thomas Pontes and his wife Mary Jane of Milton, MA and David Pontes and his wife Cathy of Colleyville, TX; a sister: Barbara Cummings of Swansea; 3 grandchildren: Kaelyn, Jake and Aidan; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral to which relatives and friends are invited will be Thursday, April 4, 2024 from the Potter Funeral Home at 10:00 A.M. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. John the Baptist Church, Westport at 11:00 A.M.

Calling hours will be Wednesday from 5 - 8 P.M. at the Potter Funeral Home.

Following the Mass, the family is inviting everyone to a Celebration of Life Luncheon at White's of Westport.

Interment will be private at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: American Parkinson Disease, MA Chapter, 85 East Concord Street, Boston, MA 02118.

 

April Fools?!?!

Monday, April 1 - Trump demands Biden apologize for proclaiming Easter Sunday ‘Transgender Day of Visibility.’

As expected, President Biden’s move sparked an outpouring of criticism among conservatives.

 

Biden’s declaration sparked uproar among conservatives and scathing criticism from former President Donald Trump, who demanded that the president apologize to millions of Christians in the United States.

 

A group of men in suits standing in front of a building

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Saturday, March 30 Westport officials meet with Ed Markey's staff to discuss federal support for water/sewer project

WESTPORT SHORELINES - Washington, DC - Less than two weeks to go before a crucial vote on the town's $35 million greater Route 6 water and sewer project, Westport officials visited the nation's capital last week to discuss with lawmakers the town's request for an appropriation to help fund the project.

 

Manny Soares and Christopher Thrasher of the Infrastructure Oversight Committee, and Evan Gendreau of the Westport School Committee, met with Senator Ed Markey's staff to discuss federal support for the project, which would see the construction of water and sewer lines along Route 6 from Fall River to Dartmouth.

 

Those behind the long-planned project say it will economically revitalize the north end, help the town financially and result in a much cleaner Westport River. Voters will decide on Tuesday, April 9, whether the town should seek a debt exclusion that would allow the project to be bonded locally.

 

Soares, Thrasher and Gendreau met with Markey's legislative staff, describing the project and its importance to Westport.

 

Apart from funds that would result if the debt exclusion passes, Westport is seeking federal funding to support the project. If passed, federal funds would reduce the cost burden on Westport taxpayers.

 

Thursday, April 11, 2024 - Feds award Westport nearly $1 million for Route 6 project

WESTPORT SHORELINES - The long-awaited Project faces the first of two crucial tests this coming Tuesday, April 9.

Westport’s long-awaited greater Route 6 sewer and water extension got two big boosts this week — news of nearly $1 million in approved federal funding, and access to $7.5 million in low interest state loans — as the project heads toward a crucial local vote.

More

 

Russ and Pam Walters peruse the new Westport Heritage Map.

Thursday, April 11, 2024 – Westport Historical Society releases new Heritage Map

What’s on the Westport Heritage Map and where can you get a copy?

 

The Westport Heritage Map features 22 sites of historical significance to the town, ranging from the Paul Cuffe Memorial to Lees Market.

 

Launched by the Westport Historical Society, the map is free, and you can pick up a copy at the Westport Free Public Library (408 Old County Rd.) or Partners Village Store (865 Main Rd.).

 

The map includes Westport’s historic shorelines, as well as walking trails and conservation areas.

 

How does the Westport Heritage Map work?

The map identifies the distinct communities that make up the town, like Westport Point, the Head of Westport, and Westport Factory, to name a few.

 

QR codes included in the map link to in-depth information about each location on there, so you can take a deep dive into the history behind each spot.

 

“Westport is a special town with so much to offer but it’s not always easy to know where to look or how to learn more,” Westport Historical Society Executive Director Jenny O’Neill said in a press release. “I hope the map will serve as a ‘bridge’ to discover more about Westport.”

 

 

The brochure features a map dating from 1831, and even almost 200 years later, the roads, layout, and settlement patterns are still recognizable, the release said.

 

“That’s a remarkable testament to preservation efforts within the community,” O’Neill said.

 

Thursday, March 28 - Westport Route 6 Sewer and Water Project construction photo of pipes (Project Overview)

 

Click here for a map of the Route 6 sewer trunkline. 

 

This project will construct the trunkline of Westport's future sewer system, running along Route 6 from Fall River to Dartmouth. Four pump stations will also be installed to lift sewerage to Fall River for water treatment. The existing water line from Fall River to the Westport Housing Authority.

 

The 2016 Westport Master Plan highlights the absence of sewer infrastructure along Route 6 as a barrier to economic development, underscoring the need for its expansion. The 2020 Integrated Water Resource Management Plan prioritizes this sewer expansion to enhance water quality and align with the town's sustainability goals.

 

Stakeholder engagement and public participation were integral, ensuring community perspectives shaped these initiatives. Recognized in these reports, the project not only supports economic development by attracting businesses and creating job opportunities but also addresses public health concerns by bringing clean drinking water to the greater Route 6 area. Pollution to the Westport River from septic systems is also addressed by collecting sewer and sending it to a treatment facility in Fall River for treatment and disposal.

 

The infrastructure improvements on Route 6 serve as a comprehensive solution, fostering economic growth, environmental sustainability, public health, and the overall well-being of the Westport community.

 

Thursday, March 28 Obituary

EverythingWestport wishes to note the passing of Jeannette A. (Jeffrey) Motta, 95, of Westport, who peacefully passed away at home on Thursday, March 21, 2024, with her loving family by her side. She was the wife of the late Frank C. Motta.

Mrs. Motta was born in Westport and raised in the Fall River area until she was married in 1950. She was the daughter of the late Wilfred J. and Mary Jane (Johnson) Jeffrey and had resided in Westport for over 60 years.


Born during the Great Depression, she was the oldest of seven and went to work at a young age. She met her husband at Lincoln Park Ballroom in Westport, a popular spot for Swing and Big Band dancing in the late 40's. He came from New Bedford and she from Fall River. She would say they met in the middle. They married and she began raising her own family. Of her many talents which included crafting, cake decorating, hairdressing, Girl Scouts leader and baseball mom - she loved sewing many outfits and costumes for her daughters. She was taught how to sew by her grandmother who was a seamstress to clientele in the Dartmouth area in the 1930's. She learned many things from her widowed grandmother, most of all, self-confidence, to never give up or give into life's obstacles, and how to be a strong woman. She certainly was an exemplary role model for her children and grandchildren.

She was the quintessential grandmother, sweet, caring, funny, quick with a joke and even quicker with a hug or some food. She could be seen caring for and taking grandkids all around town and enjoyed countless vacations, cruises and family gatherings. All of it was done with a smile while being impeccably dressed and coiffured.

In her later years, she was cared for and comforted by her primary caregivers, her daughter Patricia and her beloved grandson Christian, along with assistance from Erin, Karen, Margaret, Casey and Chaplain Carl among others at AccentCare.

She was cherished by her children: Paul Motta and his wife Linda of Westport, Patricia Kent and her husband Ed of Dartmouth and Jane Leonard and her husband John of Winthrop; brother: Robert Jeffrey of Fall River; sister: Constance Desmarais of Fall River; 7 grandchildren: Christian Riley, Matthew Riley, Adam Riley, Lynn Motta, Jason Motta, John Motta, and Elizabeth Yamashita; 9 great grandchildren; along with many loving nieces and nephews. She was the beloved grandmother of the late Jennifer Kent and sister of the late Wilfred Jeffrey, George Jeffrey, Henry Jeffrey and Carol Leduc.

 

Monday, March 25 – Westport Annual Town Election Sample Ballot

POSTED ON: MARCH 14, 2024 - 2:15PM

Please see the attached Click here to view sample ballot. for the April 9th, 2024 Annual Town Election. 

 

For more information on the Ballot Question and Route 6 Water and Sewer see: Infrastructure Oversight Committee

 

For general election and voter information see: Elections and Voter Information

 

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Monday, March 25 – Free event by Friends of the Westport Library and Westport Free Public Library

Open to the public · anyone on or off Facebook.

Their friends at Mad Science of Southern Mass and RI return to Westport to share experiments illustrating Sir Isaac Newton’s three laws of motion. Science experiments spark children’s curiosity providing them with safe, fun and educational activities that can be done at home. This dynamic program includes audience participation for ages 5-12 and adults. This is a free event sponsored by the Friends of Westport Library. No reservations necessary.

Saturday, April 20th 11:00 a.m.

Click on the link for more information.

 

Monday, March 25 – Letter: Vote ‘YES’ for sewer and waterhere’s why we need them now!

On Tuesday, April 9, voters will consider approving a project to extend a sewer and water trunkline along Route 6 from Fall River to Dartmouth. For decades voters have been unconvinced of the need to bring water and sewer services to the north end of town, and we have done little more than bring water service to 160 homes and businesses along the western portion of Route 6. What has changed to cause us to reconsider this project? In short, a growing number of well failures, expensive septic repairs, and now, new regulations and federal lawsuits.

 

Westport has no sewers. All our wastewater is handled by septic systems which, to a varying degree, process the waste on site, just above the water table. These systems work sufficiently when they are spread out over large lots with significant distances between septic fields and nearby wells. This is not the case in densely populated areas, and this is why we have a growing number of unhealthy wells in north Westport. Many of our properties have very old systems (cesspools) which do not meet even the soon to be outdated Title V regulations. Replacing these systems will cost homeowners $25,000 to $50,000, and that assumes they have enough room on their lots.

 

R. Michael Sullivan, Westport

Sullivan is president of the Westport River Watershed Alliance, and formerly a member and chairman of the Select Board

Click here for full letter

 

Thursday, April 11, 2024 - Letter to the Editor stresses the need for water/sewer on Route 6 - A 'YES' on Route 6 vote will improve my family's life.

I am a 30-year resident of East Briggs Road in Westport, where I raised my two children, and where my husband and I plan to retire. Our home is on a parcel of five lots which, when added together, do not meet the current zoning bylaws. Many of our surrounding neighbors have only one small lot, and most of us have cesspools. We have not been able to drink the water from our well due to nitrate contamination for over 10 years.

 

Raising two children with two working parents was challenging with only one bathroom. We would dearly love to be able to add a second bathroom. Replacing our cesspool with a denitrifying system would be terribly expensive, and on the eve of our retirement, an expense we cannot afford. If we can tie into a water and sewer system, it will greatly improve both our home environment, provide clean drinking water, and avoid the costs of replacing our cesspool with a septic system. Lastly, it will alleviate the stress we experienced when we heard about the DEP proposals for the South Coast.

 

I urge residents to vote YES on the ballot question and remind them that improvements to the North End residents will eventually also improve the Westport River, an asset that we all use and treasure.

 

Gail Rodrigues, Westport MA

Rodrigues is a member of the Westport Bike/Walking Path Committee.

 

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Thursday, April 11, 2024 - Westport Grange to talk about climate change

Members of Westport’s agricultural community will meet next Wednesday, March 27th at 6 p.m. at the Westport Grange, 931 Main Road, to learn a bit more about climate change and how it could continue to impact Westport in the coming years.

 

On the agenda for the 6 p.m. meeting is the Westport Climate Resilience Committee’s interim agriculture report. It’s one of six sub-topics being addressed by the committee, which was formed two years ago to study climate resilience and how it pertains to Westport’s agriculture, health, water, infrastructure and safety, engagement and fund-raising, and historical structures.

 

The Wednesday, March 27 grange meeting is free and open to all. It starts at 6 p.m.

 

Sunday, March 24 - FDA Settles Ivermectin Case, Agrees to Remove Controversial ‘Stop It’ Post.

Doctors score win, forcing FDA to remove controversial statements about ivermectin.

Click here to read full report . . . . .

 

Electronics Recycle | Westport River

Sunday, March 24 - Spring Electronics Recycle

Electronics Recycling collection day is rapidly coming up at the Town Hall parking area!

 

Time & Location - April 27, 2024, 9:00 am – 12:00 Noon

816 Main Road, Westport, MA

About the event

WRWA will host the very popular Electronics Recycling collection day at the Town Hall parking lot at 816 Main Road in Westport. We are pleased to once again partner with Indie Cycle to provide this service to the community. Indie Cycle accepts most electronic materials at no charge, with the exceptions listed below. 

Items Accepted at No Charge: Computers, laptops, PDA’s, cell phones, mice, keyboards, toner cartridges, CD/DVD players, radios, network equipment, wires, stereos, speakers, telephones, microwaves, small household appliances. Anything with a wire!

 

Thursday, March 11, 2024 - Massachusetts spending $75 million a month on shelters, cash could run out in April without infusion.

House and Senate racing toward new shelter spending plan as clock ticks. More . . . .

 

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Description automatically generatedThursday, March 11, 2024 - EverythingWestport is sad to announce the passing of Nancy E. (Tripp) Bertoncini, 73, of Westport, who passed away on Monday, March 18, 2024 at home. She was the wife of the late Louis Bertoncini and longtime companion of Thomas Pereira of Westport.

 

Mrs. Bertoncini was born in Rice Lake, WI daughter of the late Norris E. and Roberta A. (Wekkin) Tripp and had been a longtime resident of Westport. She was a member of the American Legion Women's Auxiliary, Post #228 in Somerset.

 

Survivors include her 2 sons: Jeffrey Bertoncini and his fiancée Kara Landry of Fall River and Brian Bertoncini of Westport; longtime companion: Thomas Pereira of Westport; and 3 great grandchildren: Elijah Hadsell, Timothy Hadsell and Jackson Francis.

 

She was the grandmother of the late Kayla Bertoncini and sister of the late Ronald and Randy Tripp. She enjoyed being with her friends and family.

 

She was a very generous loving person who was always there to help her friends and family. She loved to travel and enjoyed the beach.

 

Funeral service to which relatives and friends are invited will be Thursday, March 28, 2024 at the Potter Funeral Home at 10 A.M.

 

Calling hours Wednesday from 4-6 P.M.

 

Interment in Beech Grove Cemetery, Westport.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to SStar at www.sstar.org 

 

PHOTO | EverythingWestport.com © 2024 All rights reserved

Monday, March 11 – Flooded Head of Westport! Heavy surf and high tides continue to surge up onto the landings at the Head of Westport. This is becoming a monthly occurrence as increasing high tides threaten all low-lying areas of Westport.

Should we be worried?

 

WESTPORT VOTES!

Wednesday, March 6 – Westport is Trump country!

Trump – 1473   Biden - 1332

Presidential Primary results for Westport March 6, 2024

Click Here to view ALL results . . . . . .

 

 

East Beach in the 1880’s.

Friday, February 23 – East Beach Road upcoming meeting to determine the battered road’s future!

The town-sponsored meeting begins March 1st 10:00 a.m. at the Selectboard’s town hall meeting.

If you are concerned, and you should be, attend the meeting and make your feelings known about the endangered coastal road that is an escape route to allow locals to leave the area in case the draw bridge is knocked out of service.

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Photo | EverythingWestport © All rights reserved

East Beach Road destroyed by Hurricane Irene! How Many hurricanes must destroy East Beach Road before the state steps in?!?

 

Wednesday, February 21, 2024 - Interesting bit of Westport history from 1971. Enjoy!

 

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NASCAR at Daytona 2024!!!

Monday, February 19, 2024 – He who survives the almost expected “crash and burn” on the final lap of the Daytona 500, a thrilling NASCAR event, wins!

 

Daytona 500 race results: William Byron wins ahead of teammate Alex Bowman in crash-filled finish; full leaderboard at

Click here for full article

 

Tuesday, February 13 – Event Postponed!

 

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Friday, January 26, 2024 - A revived and expanded Water and Sewer line funding plan is headed once again to the ballot box, town meeting

 

By Robert Barboza

Special to EverythingWestport.com

 

WESTPORT - A revived and expanded Water and Sewer line funding plan is headed to ballot box, town meeting.

 

More than 100 residents and property owners came out on a rainy winter night (Jan. 24) to

hear a detailed presentation by the Infrastructure Oversight Committee (IOC) on the proposed trunk water and sewer line project being planned for the full-length Route 6 corridor between Fall River and Dartmouth.

 

At the end of the meeting, the IOC voted unanimously to ask the Select Board to place a debt exclusion question for up to $35 million in loans to fund the three-phase project on the ballot of the annual town election in April. If voters approve the loan authorization at the ballot box, the debt exclusion question would then go on the warrant of the Annual Town Meeting in May for further endorsement by the community.

 

“The town can’t afford to pass up the opportunity to spur the economic development that will greatly improve the community’s tax base and provide concrete health and environmental benefits for hundreds of residents in the north end.” – Former Select Board Chair Tony Vieira

 

IOC Chair Steven Ouellette, a Select Board delegate to the IOC advisory group, said early on in the meeting that the Select Board will make the final decision on whether to put the debt exclusion referendum question on the ballot for the 2024 annual election, and on the town meeting warrant. The meeting agenda also included a vote to recommend that the Select Board establish a betterment policy to determine how much of the project costs would be assessed to property owners along the proposed trunk line route.

Click here for full article

 

Harbor Road Blocked by Storm Damage - Westportnow.com

 

Storm ravages Westport, recovery begins

Thursday, January 25 - January 2024 Storm Residential and Business Damage Form

WESTPORT - The Town of Westport advises property owners to please fill out a form to document the damage to your home and/or business.

 

Click Here to fill out your form!

 

Your information will be used to determine if the county is eligible for federal programs like FEMA and the Small Business Administration; it does not mean you have applied for these programs.

 

This data will be shared with your town administration so they can become aware of the damage in the area. They will be accepting submissions until 01/26/24.

 

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Thursday, January 25 – After years of study Westport has decide to move forward and replace the dangerous Drift Road culvert

WESTPORT - Overview: A Public Information Meeting will be held by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) to discuss the Drift Road Culvert Replacement Project in Westport, Massachusetts. The meeting will be held virtually.

Purpose:  MassDOT is advancing the Drift Road Culvert Replacement Project and has scheduled a virtual Public Information Meeting for Thursday, February 15, 2024, at 6:00 p.m.  The meeting will begin with a presentation by the project team.  Attendees will have the opportunity to view the presentation and ask questions.

Proposal:  The purpose of the Drift Road Culvert Replacement Project is to replace the existing structurally deficient structure, Bridge No. W-30-021 Drift Road over Kirby Brook.  The proposed replacement bridge will be 32’-0” wide with a 32’-6” span length.  The bridge will consist of a precast concrete rigid frame supported on precast concrete footings.   The project will also include roadway improvements at the bridge approaches, including full-depth pavement reconstruction and new guardrails.

To view the plans, click here.

The bridge is owned and maintained by the Town of Westport, and the project is being funded through MassDOT’s Municipal Small Bridge Program.

Please use the following link to participate in the meeting:

https://parecorp.zoom.us/j/89062656847?pwd=n3iuz9tAglkHkHc1cPem1hfOyBY6PN.1

James K. Hartnett, Town Administrator

 

A gloved hand holding a bag of white powder

Description automatically generatedWednesday, January 10 - Alleged New Bedford Drug Dealer arrested with enough Fentanyl to Kill 214,000 people.

By Douglas Charles

New Bedford - According to the City of New Bedford Police Department, narcotics detectives there successfully concluded an investigation into a fentanyl distribution operation.

More >>

 

 

Monday, January 1, 2024 - Westport Planning Board Public Hearing Notice Pursuant to the provisions of MGL Ch. 40A § 5 and Article 2.1 of the Westport Zoning By-laws, the Westport Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, January 9, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. at the Town Hall Annex, 856 Main Road Westport. The purpose of the hearing is to accept public comments on the below proposed amendments to the Town of Westport Zoning By-laws. The proposed amendments would permit and regulate the operation of bed and breakfasts and short-term rentals.

Item 1. Add To SECTION 3 DEFINITIONS a definition for short-term rental.

Item 2. Amend Section 5.1, TABLE OF USE REGULATIONS to allow bed and breakfasts and short-term rentals as allowed by-right in the residential/agricultural, business, and unrestricted districts.

Item 3. Amend Section 8.3, PARKING REGULATIONS to require that short-term rentals include a minimum of one (1) parking space per guest room on the premises in a location for normal residential use.

Item 4. Amend Section 9.8, BED & BREAKFAST: to read as “BED & BREAKFAST AND SHORT-TERM RENTAL” and to create a new Westport Zoning Bylaw regulating both short-term rental and bed and breakfast operations and requiring permitting and registration with the Westport Board of Health. A detailed copy of the proposed Zoning By-Laws is on file in the Town Clerk’s office, Town Hall, 816 Main Road and Planning Board office at the Town Hall Annex, 856 Main Road and may be inspected during regular business hours or on their website at https://www.westport-ma.com/short-term-rental committee.

Submitted by James T. Whitin Chairman, Westport Planning Board January 4, 2024

 

Click here for more Headline News! 

 

 

Westport, MA

 

Proposed Budget Fiscal Year 2025

Prepared by: Jim Hartnett, Town Administrator

February 12, 2024

Amended Free Cash Allocation 2/13/24

Amended Chapter 70 Allocation 2/19/24

Amended Chapter 70 & School Percentage, Free Cash 2/20/24

 

As detailed in the Five-Year Plan, the Town of Westport faces significant challenges as the gap between revenue and expense growth continues to widen.

Whereas many communities remedy budget problems by passing Proposition 2 1/2 overrides, Westport voters have been reluctant to do so, thus putting added financial pressure on the town budget.

Without an override Westport must rely on its limited revenue sources, which include a 2 1/2 percent yearly increase in the Tax Levy, new growth, state aid and local receipts. These revenue sources do not meet the yearly needs of the Town.

Budget gap widens - Becomes a fiscal cliff with Recurring Expense and Recurring

Revenue

 

New WAG Sponsored month-long Exhibits and Presentations at the Westport Public Library:
  "April is for the Birds" 

With the return of Spring, we will welcome flocks of migratory and summer-resident birds to the South Coast. It is a time to celebrate our birds, and that is just what is here proposed. Throughout April there will be an exhibit at the Westport Free Public Library of paintings by two artists who love to paint birds. Barry Van Dusen, an illustrator of many bird books, will display ten paintings from his recent book – Finding Sanctuary – which combines art and text to tell stories about all the Mass Audubon’s Sanctuaries. Pamela Lowell will have a collection of illustrations from her brand-new book – My Summer with Osprey – which shares from-the-heart experiences of observing Osprey – our local iconic bird species – in the Westport River in recent years.

In addition to these two month-long exhibits, there will be presentations on four Thursday evenings in April – from 6:30PM to 7:30PM at the Westport Public Library.

 

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After three years of denying Ivermectin's success in dealing with COVID-19, the truth finally comes out!
FDA Settles Ivermectin Case, Agrees to Remove Controversial ‘Stop It’ Post.
Doctors score win, forcing FDA to remove statements about ivermectin.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has agreed to remove social media posts and webpages that urged people to stop taking ivermectin to treat COVID-19, according to a settlement dated March 21.

The FDA has already removed a page that said: “Should I take ivermectin to prevent or treat COVID-19? No.”

Within 21 days, the FDA will remove another page titled, “why you should not use ivermectin to treat or prevent COVID-19,” according to the settlement announcement, which was filed with federal court in southern Texas.

Learn more about the Ivermectin controversy to view complete article.

 

Westport Lions Club Society Announces 2024 Scholarship Deadline

WESTPORT – Students who reside in Westport and who are graduating from area schools may now apply for the annual Westport Lions Club scholarships.

 

Applications must be printed out, mailed and received or postmarked no later than April 26, 2024.

 

Last year, the Club was able to assist 5 students by providing $20,000 in scholarships.

 

“The Westport Lions Club is dedicated to being able to offer these scholarships to deserving students. By assisting them in furthering their education we hope to help them reach their goals and achieve their dreams,” reflected WLC President Claire M. Sullivan.

 

Application forms are available from guidance counselors. Applications can also be downloaded by visiting the Westport Lions Club website at www.westportlions.com and navigating to the Lions Club Scholarship Info page.

 

COUNTRY TRAVELERS New 2024 Schedule

Veronica F Beaulieu – 646 Main Rd, Westport, MA 02790 – 508.636.4889 vfb0859@aol.com

2024 Schedule

In addition to Encore Casino trips on last Tuesday of each month for which reservations are needed, the following trips are planned:

Apr 17 Log Cabin, Holyoke MA dinner/show American Country Classics

$128

Apr 23-25 Lancaster PA “Daniel” at Site and Sound Theater plus, plus, plus $100 Deposit due at sign up Balance by 3/15/24 $549/double

May 7 Aqua Turf Club dinner/show Debby Boone “you light up my life” Deposit $75 at sign up balance due by 4/1 $138.00

June 19 Summit View Pavilion, Holyoke Strawberry Festival and BBQ Entertainment $140

July 10 Log Cabin Holyoke Lunch/show “Jimmy Buffet Tribute Band” $128*Selling fast

Aug 6 – 15 SECOND TRIP to Azores-call for details

Aug 13 Aqua Turf Club dinner/show “The Legends Live-A Journey Through the Decades $109

Sept 11 Theatre by the Sea/Captain Jacks “42nd St” $148

Oct 8 Aqua Turf Club dinner/show American Bandstand Tribute $111 Oct 15-17 Atlantic City Tropicana $325

Dec 10 Aqua Turf Club dinner/show Holiday Classics with the Cartells featuring a sing-a-long and Santa and Mrs. Claus $109

Schedule subject to changes and modifications.

 

Westport Spring Electronics Recycle Day Saturday, April 27th!

Spring Electronics Recycle

Spring Electronics Recycle

 

Electronics Recycling collection day at the Town Hall parking area

 

Time & Location

April 27, 2024, 9:00 am – 12:00 Noon

816 Main Road, Westport, MA 02790, USA

About the event

WRWA will host the very popular Electronics Recycling collection day at the Town Hall parking lot at 816 Main Road in Westport. We are pleased to once again partner with Indie Cycle to provide this service to the community. Indie Cycle accepts most electronic materials at no charge, with the exceptions listed below. 

Items Accepted at No Charge: Computers, laptops, PDA’s, cell phones, mice, keyboards, toner cartridges, CD/DVD players, radios, network equipment, wires, stereos, speakers, telephones, microwaves, small household appliances. Anything with a wire!

Electronics Recycle | Westport River

 

Requests for Proposals for the 2024 Westport Cultural Council Community Grants

 

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The Westport Cultural Council (WCC) is accepting applications beginning Thursday, February 1, 2024 for Westport Cultural Council Community Grants. The grants are made possible by the Helen E. Ellis Charitable Trust Grant, administered by the Bank of America, and the Westport Cultural Gift Fund Grant. Applications, guidelines and information are available online at the WCC website:     www.wptculturalcouncil.org

If you are a local artist, teacher, or non-profit organization requiring funds for a community-oriented project or event that directly involves the arts, interpretive sciences or humanities, we invite you to apply. In 2023, the Westport Cultural Council was able to fund 24 grants totaling $58,000.

 

If you are interested in applying but need guidance or have questions pertaining to your grant, please feel free to attend the WCC’s February 7th meeting at 6:00 p.m. at the Westport Town Annex located at 856 Main Road, Westport, MA. Questions can also be submitted through the website.

 

Grants are awarded to projects or activities that take place in the South Coast area, promote local creative talent or cultural resources, and benefit residents across Westport’s diverse communities.

 

The WCC Community Grants program was established at the start of 2024 to unify and streamline the process of applying for and administering funds from the combined awards of the Helen E Ellis Fund and the Westport Cultural Gift Fund.

 

Artist Helen E. Ellis (1889-1978), a Westport artist and philanthropist, bequeathed the gift which established her namesake trust. For over 30 years the fund has supported a wide range of cultural events and projects in the area.

 

The Westport Cultural Gift Fund was established in the fall of 2023 through the generosity of a Westport family. Their hope is that other individuals and families will join them to grow the fund. With this help, the Council can expand and enhance the many programs underwritten by the Helen E Ellis Charitable Trust thus benefiting the community.

 

Event by Westport Historical Society and Westport Land Conservation Trust

Westport Free Public Library

Free Public Event

Have you ever found some unusual unidentified stone remnants or structures while walking on local trails? This is your chance to ask the experts for their opinion! Westport’s landscape is dotted with remnants of the past such as mill Image result for images of unidentified stone remnants or structures  stones, lye extraction stones, foundations, gravestones, stone walls, and unusual rock formations. Archaeologists from the Public Archaeology Lab will endeavor to shed light on some of these mysterious stone remnants that are often our only visible connections to Westport’s industrial and agricultural heritage. The audience is encouraged to bring along photos of stone structures for discussion and identification. Or even better, please email images in advance to: westporthistory@westporthistory.net

This program is co-sponsored by the Westport Historical Society and Westport Land Conservation Trust.

FREE, but donations are appreciated!

 

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Westport Recreation Department

 

Open House Recreation Event

Register   Facilities   General Info   Contact

Register Now   Programs   Log In 
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Local Access Channel Update

Posted On: January 25, 2024 – 8:00 pm

youtube logo

Channels 190 and 191 Update

 

Games

The Westport Recreation Department is in the process of migrating to a new server, and the current government and educational programming will not be available to watch live on Channels 190 and 191.

You can view live and broadcast meetings, boards and commission meetings, and public forums by visiting https://www.youtube.com/@westportgovernmenttv in the meantime.   Choose "LIVE" from the menu under the Town Seal.

For educational happenings, including school committees, school events, and sports, go to:

https://www.youtube.com/@westportcommunitytv

Sorry for the inconvenience.

 

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First time user?
Create a House Account
*Only needs to be done once.

 

Games

View our programs! Offerings for kids, teens & adults!

 

Gym

Rent our gym for your next birthday party, sports practice or special event.

 

New Annex Playground!

NEW Annex Playground! Coming Spring 2024!

View All

 

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2024 Tiverton Winter Farmers Market

 

Tiverton Farmers Market

Tiverton Middle School

Duration: 3 hr 30 min

Public · Anyone on or off Facebook

The Tiverton Farmers Market is a local Farmers Market situated right smack in the middle of this cozy town of Tiverton, RI. Connecting the community to fresh & local produce, meats & seafood, baked goods, honey and herbals, vegan & vegetarian options, prepared foods and more. Join us at the market with a rotating selection of vendors weekly.

Winter season location: October 15th, 2023, to April 28th, 2024
Tiverton Middle School, 10 Quintal Drive, Tiverton, RI 02878.

Summer season Location:
Tiverton Town Farm Recreation Area,
3588 Main Road, RI-77, Tiverton, RI 02878.

Hours: Sundays from 10am - 1:30pm
Special Events are 10am- 2pm

No markets on December 24th, December 31st & March 31st (Easter Day).

Please only service animals are allowed inside the school.
More information at our website www.TivertonFarmersMarket.com

 

Their year-round farmers market happens every Saturday morning. Swing by to pick up your local produce, bread, meat, fish, kombucha, and more each week as well as listen to live music in the summer, connect with local nonprofits and community organizations, and visit with friends!

EBT and SNAP participants, you can double your dollars at the market thanks to a grant from Farm Fresh RI. Stop by the market table to learn more.

Free and open to the public, click the link below to learn more!

If you would like to get on a waiting list, please email them directly at: farmersmarket@mounthopefarm.org.

Anyone posting in the comments that they have vendor spots available is not affiliated with Mount Hope Farm and it is a scam.

 

Westport Community TV Videos

Click here to watch Westport Community Videos!

Westport Community TV - YouTube

 

www.youtube.com/@westportcommunitytv/videos

 

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Thursday, December 21 - Proposed new “no wake zone” on Westport River

EverythingWestport found an article on www.EastBayRI.com that talks about a proposed no wake zone in the East Branch of the Westport River.

 

The Harbor Advisory Board is considering establishing a no wake zone from Kerby Brook north to the Head of Westport to help keep the river safe, following complaints about jet skiers along the East Branch.

 

Chris Leonard, the director of marine services, proposed the zone after receiving several complaints from nearby neighbors who said jet skis have been a nuisance this season.

 

Last month, select board members sent the harbor group back to the table to work on its plan to establish a no wake zone from Kerby Brook north to the Head of Westport.

 

The board members voted to move the southern end of the zone north, on a line from 418 Drift Road on the west bank to Widow’s Point on the east.

 

Hope this information helps those interested in future wake zones!

 

15 Best Things to Do in Westport (MA)

www.thecrazytourist.com/15-best-things-to-do-in-westport-ma/

 

Above: Cherry & Web Beach

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

 

Westport’s Recycling Center news!

Old punch cards will no longer be accepted as payment or credited towards a purchase of a current punch card after 12/31/2023.

 

Composter Sale!

The Board of Health is selling composters at 1/2 the cost-plus tax.  The price of the New Age Composter Bin-24 is $34.53, which includes the sales tax and is only available at the Transfer Station.

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To purchase a composter, please go to the Transfer Station with a check or money order made out to the Town of Westport.  This item is not available at the Board of Health Office and cannot be purchased with

cash!

Click here for more important Recycling Center news!!

Click here for Westport Recycling Fee Schedule

 

FOWL Winter 2024 Newsletter Now Available!

Click Here to read Newsletter

 

Westport Blood Pressure Clinic

Wednesdays 8:30 - 11:30 am at the Town Nurse's Office, Town Hall Annex, first floor.

 

Postponed! Look for new dates coming soon.

 

The 2023 Westport Housing Production Plan is now closed to further input. Click Here to review 2022 housing Production Plan.

  

Heads Up Westporters!!

Monday, May 1 - On May 1, the Westport Board of Health will begin issuing new Transfer Station stickers for the next fiscal year (2024).  Everyone using the Transfer Station is required to purchase a new sticker each year.  Current stickers will expire on June 30, 2023.

 

The sticker fee is $50.  For seniors 65 and older, the sticker fee is $40.  Additional stickers for the same household may be purchased on the same day for $10 per vehicle.  Vehicle registrations are required.

 

Stickers and punch cards can always be purchased at the Transfer Station during normal operating hours by check or money order (no cash).

 

The Board of Health office is located at the Town Hall Annex, 856 Main Road.  Office hours are 8:30 – 4:00 p.m.  Closed on Wednesdays.

- Westport Board of Health

 

Monday, October 16 Keep up-to-date on Westport’s Enviroment Profile!

What information is inside this community profile?

Data for several health and environmental topics are presented in this profile as well as population information. Terms that might be unfamiliar are in bold and defined in a glossary at the end. This profile also describes how baseline health, environmental, and social indicators available on the EPHT public website can inform climate and health adaptation planning in your community.

Read more . . . .

 

Westport Historical Society seeks donations!

Our heartfelt thanks to those of you who have already donated! We wish that all of our supporters could share with us what we witness first-hand of the Westport Community’s active participation in our many and varied programs, e.g., young children gleefully wielding magical wands and miniature

broomsticks and carefully preparing their own protection spells at our Halloween event, or the outpouring of community interest in the tireless efforts of our gravestone cleaning team as they literally uncover the history of those buried in Westport’s cemeteries, or

the joyful interactions at our gathering of Westport’s Polish families.

Thank you, to you our supporters, for making a year of so many such moments possible!

 

Click here to read current WHS Newsletter - Winter 2023 newsletter

 

Westport Country Travelers announces 2024 Schedule

Veronica F Beaulieu, 646 Main Road,

Westport, MA 02790   508.636.4889

vfb0859@aol.com

 

2024 Schedule

TBA

 

Call Veronica at 508.636.4889 for further information or questions.

Schedule subject to changes and modifications.

 

Talk to trees at Handy House Heritage Trail

The trees of the forest can’t wait to meet you. Make sure you stop along the trail so they can introduce themselves!

Download your trail brochure here!

Red Maple, Yellow Birch, Red Oak, Sassafras, White Oak, Hickory, Eastern White Pine, and Tupelo or Black Gum!

Handy House, 202 Hix Bridge Road, Westport

Read more with photos>>

 

Transfer Station is now accepting clothing!

WESTPORT - The Transfer Station facility has two new Clothing/Textile Recycling Bins which benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Click HERE for their website. 

In addition to wearable items, you can place items that are ripped or stained (must be clean) in these bins along with items that are usable.

 

As of November 1, 2022, textiles are banned from trash. 

Clothing/Textile Recycling Bins are not limited to clothing - bedding, curtains, towels, tablecloths, etc. are welcome!

 

Transfer Station Hours!

Posted on: Monday, April 18, 2023

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Please note that the new hours the Transfer Station will be open to the public:

Saturdays & Sundays: 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays: 8:30 a.m. a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Tuesdays, Wednesdays and holidays: Closed

Bulky Items and Construction/ Demolition Debris are accepted.

 

VSO will be at the Council of Aging third Thursday of each month

We are very happy to announce that the Westport Veterans Service Officer, Carol Freitas, will be at the Westport Senior    Center on the third Thursday of each month from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.  Carol will be available to answer any questions and address any veteran concerns.

508.636.1028

 

Wag Poetry Group - Twice Monthly

WAG Poets meet in person in the gallery the second Monday and final Thursday of the month from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm. They continue to welcome new members. Free to all who are interested! For more information, please contact info@westportartgroup.com or Sarah Bartlett at sarbar66@gmail.com.

About Wag Poets

WAG Poets are interested in furthering our craft as writers by meeting regularly to receive/offer constructive feedback on our work. Twice monthly we meet in the inspiring WAG gallery space with copies of a new poem, seeking specific feedback on our work.

 

See the Painting page for details and to sign up!

 

The Westport Food Pantry now has a permanent home at the Westport Grange on 931 Main Road.

Volunteers are on site Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. – noon to receive food, gift cards and monetary donations.

They also distribute food every Monday, 9:00 a.m. – noon. Recipients remain in their cars while their volunteers place a grocery bag of basic items in the car trunk. All CDC protocols are followed.

Checks can be made out to The Town of Westport with Food Pantry written on the memo line. All monetary donations go into a specific account for pantry use only. 

The pantry was started by the town as an emergency response to the chaos created by the COVID-19 pandemic and Westporters have been extremely generous. To date they have been able to distribute 28,000 lbs. of basic food and household items, all made possible by town resident donations, and over 20,000 lbs. of produce provided by a Farms to Family program of the USDA by way of the United Way of New Bedford. Thank you everyone!

Stop by, say hello, see what we do. And donate.

 

The Handy House Heritage Trail is open!

The new trail offers an opportunity for contemplation and discovery.

The Handy House Heritage Trail is open! Take a walk in the woods and let the Westport Historical Society know what you think!

The trail provides a link to multiple themes of local heritage from the presence of Wampanoags to the changing nature of the forest, and the impact of settlement on the land. The trail traverses land forming part of the historic Handy House property which was preserved with Community Preservation Act funding and contributions by many individuals and businesses.

The trail was constructed by Jay Raposa II as part of an Eagle Scout project. Interpretive signage is supported in part by The Westport Cultural Council through a grant from the Helen E. Ellis Charitable Trust administered by Bank of America. Trail signage was designed by Ray Shaw.

 

Read more with photos>>  

 

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Check us out on

 

Click here to visit our Facebook page

 

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See related image detail. 24th Birthday Logo With Silver Ring And Blue Ribbon, Vector Design ...

EverythingWestport

is celebrating 24 years of continuous on-line publishing!

Proud to serve the community with news and events as they happen!

 

 

Upcoming holidays and observances:

 

April 2024 Monthly Observances

https://www.brownielocks.com/april.html

 

Adopt A Ferret Month
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Adopt A Horse Month (4/26 - 5/31)
Adopt A Greyhound Month
Atlanta Food & Wine Month
Arab American Heritage Month 
ASPCA Month  

Alcohol Awareness Month
Amateur Radio Month
Autism Acceptance Month 
Autism Awareness Month 
Beaver Awareness Month
Car Care Month
Celebrate Diversity Month
Child Abuse Prevention Month
(International) Cesarean Awareness Month
Community Spirit Days (1-30)
Confederate History Month
Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Awareness Month  
Couple Appreciation Month
Defeat Diabetes 

More.

 

Daily Holidays and Observances

2024 Daily Holidays Information from Holidays and Observances

 Friday, April 12, 2024

 

Image result for today is national big wind day

Big Wind Day 

Day of Silence

D.E.A.R. Day (Drop Everything And Read) 

Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day 

Halifax Day (Local Observance in Halifax, North Carolina) 

Image result for international day for street children 2023

International Day for Street Children 

International Day of Human Space Flight 

National Dive Bar Day

National Donate Life (Blue and Green) Day

National Licorice Day 

National Only Child Day 

Poet in a Cupcake Day

Russian Cosmonaut Day 

Walk on Your Wild Side Day 

Wear a Star Day 

Yuri's Night 

 

Today’s Significant Events in History

Friday, April 12, 2024

Historical Events

 

1204 The Fourth Crusade occupies and plunders Constantinople

1811 The first US colonists on the Pacific coast arrive at Cape Disappointment, Washington

1861 Fort Sumter in South Carolina is attacked by the Confederacy, beginning the American Civil War

1872 Jesse James' gang robs a bank of $1,500 in Columbia, Kentucky, 1 dead

1927 Kuomintang leader Chiang Kai-shek begins a counter revolution by violently suppressing Communist groups

The Vostok 1 spacecraft attached to its launcher

1961 Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gararin  becomes the first human to travel into space and orbit Earth, aboard the Vostok 1 spacecraft

2023 Ghana is the first country to approve a new vaccine for Malaria, the Mosquirix– RTS,S, made at Oxford University. The first time a major new vaccine is first approved in Africa. 

 

 

 

 

 

Click here to view all Theater and Arts events this week in and around Westport.

 

 

Westport Historical Society

For more information contact The Westport Historical Society at 508.636.6011 and ask for Jenny.

Email: westporthistory@westporthistory.net

Visit their website.

 

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WHS exhibits

 

 

Read their 2024 Newsletter

 

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On-Going exhibit at the Bell School: Early school days in Westport.

 

Community Events of Westport

 

Visit the Westport Historical Society website.

 

Like them on Facebook.

 

Click here to read their Winter, 2022 Newsletter.

 

 

 

Town Meetings Today!

 

Notice! Listed meetings are now open to the public unless a remote virtual requiring a computer or phone connection is required to join the meeting.

Masks optional!!!!

 

Scheduled town meetings today:

 

Friday, April 12, 2024

 

Board of Trustees - Library

5:00pm

 

Click on the above link(s) to view the agendas.

 

Click here for today’s schedule for meetings and all upcoming town meetings.

 

 

 

 

 

Click HERE for a directory listing of all Westport Town Office phone numbers. PDF

 

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Permits, tips for healthy and safe living.

 

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 Click Here to download.

 

15 Best things to do in Westport MA!

Click here for the listings

 

Leashed dogs are not allowed on Westport town beaches from April 16 to September 15!

09/01/2023 - The Westport Board of Health reaffirms that there are no dogs or horses allowed on Westport Town Beaches from April 16 to September 15.

Outside this time frame when they are allowed, the dogs must be leashed at all times.

This is enforced by Animal Control.

 

2024 Dog Licenses will be available in the Town Clerk's Office starting January 3, 2024.

Dog licenses are due each year by April 1st. As of July 1st, there will be a $15.00 late fee imposed for dogs not yet licensed this year.

License Fees are: Male and Female - $15.00, Spayed and Neutered - $10.00 - valid Rabies Certificate required.

Fire all the information Click Here for all the dog information.

In order to process by mail, you must send a check payable to "Town of Westport" and include Rabies Certificate, spay or neutered certificate, and a self-addressed, stamped return envelope. The certificate will be mailed back to you.

Other Fees: 4 Dog Kennel - $50.00, 10 Dog Kennel - $75.00, and More Than 10 Dog Kennel - $100.00.

Note: Westport’s dog officer can also impose an additional $50 fine if a dog is unlicensed.

 

Hix Bridge Landing Parking Permits

Hix bridge sign

Hix Bridge Permits are only for Westport residents and property owners. The cost of the yearly permit is $30.00 and is valid January 1st to December 31st.  

Requirements for obtaining a Hix Bridge Permit:  
Fees effective January 1, 2024.pdf

 

You must prove you are a resident or property owner, and that the vehicle is yours.

Residents: Vehicle registration, registered in Westport; 
Property Owners: Vehicle registration and a copy of your real estate tax bill. 
Residents with Leased Vehicles: Vehicle registration, proof of vehicle lease and property tax bill.

Normally, permits are issued Monday through Friday - 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the Selectmen's Office, 2nd floor of the Town Hall, 816 Main Road, Westport, MA  02790.

 

Do you heat your home with fuel oil?

Then you’ll want to review new safety standards for protecting against costly oil leaks that could be very expensive to remediate.

Click here  PDF to see how to protect your oil tank’s fuel line as required by law. The Massachusetts Homeowner Oil Heating System Upgrade and Insurance Law requires you to upgrade your home heating system equipment to prevent leaks from tanks and pipes that connect to your furnace. By making a relatively small expenditure now, you can prevent a much greater expense in the future.

 

Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)

Positive mosquito findings in communities surrounding Westport and a widening swath through Southeastern Massachusetts.

Click here for more information and learn how to protect yourself from EEE.

 

Protect yourself and your family from smoke, fire and carbon monoxide poisoning in your home.

A defective or non-functioning smoke alarm almost cost a young Westport woman her life in a July 4th Drift Road fire. The house burnt to the ground, but the woman was saved by an alert Fire Chief.

Protect yourself, your family and pets with proper smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

Is your property safe? Click here to get all the details and state requirements for all age homes. Do it now!

 

16 Tips . . . . .

. . . you need to defend yourself against deer ticks and Lyme Disease.   Click here to get them now!

 

 

10 tips for living with coyotes in Westport. Click here to learn how.  PDF

Westport Board of Health Fact Sheet

 

 

Want to make a comment, submit a correction, or report a news story or event of interest. We would be delighted to hear from you.

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Send an email to:

EverythingWestport@hotmail.com

If you are from the Southcoast area, please feel free to email us any upcoming event you would like to submit.

 

 

Westport Council on Aging

• Announcements •

COA Evergreen Newsletter – April 2024

 

Read April 2024 newsletter now.

 

PDF

 

View Evergreen’s schedule and get the hourly timetable of COA weekly events.

 

Westport Council of Aging has a video!

Click here to see it now.

 

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Aerial views courtesy of Geno Silvia

New England Wings - Custom Aerial Photography

www.newenglandwings.com

 

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Baker’s Beach and Westport Point.

 

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Westport’s Central Village features Partners Village Store and Kitchen, Alden Hill Real Estate, and Town Hall Annex.

 

Snow Owl at Gooseberry Causeway 

Courtesy of Rick Barrette Photography.

www.Rickbarrette.com

 

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Receive email alerts to upcoming events and news!

 

 

 

Local area organizations’ newsletters now on-line!

Updated as of Thursday, April 11, 2024

  

 

Beyond the Barways

is a monthly newsletter from the Westport Land Conservation Trust

 

 

 

Click here to visit their web page and read their latest Newsletter!

 

The Westport Historical Society Harbinger newsletter is available on-line.  

 Read current newsletter now.

 

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PDF

Click here to read their Annual Report. to read 2021 Historical Society Annual Report.

 

Visit their FaceBook page to stay up-to-date on current events.

 

  

The Westport Council on Aging’s monthly newsletter EVERGREEN is now available.

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The March 2024 issue is now on-line. PDF

 

Read newsletter now.

Get the latest happenings at the Westport Senior Center.

 

 

 

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Click here to read latest June 2020 issue of Allens Pond Sanctuary’s “The Perch.”

 

 

Click here to view Allens Pond Sanctuary's Program schedule.

 

Click here for their Annual Report

 

1280 Horseneck Rd.
Westport, MA 02790
508.636.2437


allenspond@massaudubon.org

 

 

 

 

 

Westport Business to Business Visit their website.

 

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Be sure to visit these informative and fascinating pages of EverythingWestport.com!

 

 

Photo Essays of Westport

Hundreds of high-quality digital images illustrating the rural culture and beauty of Westport; its rivers, shores and picturesque landscapes. Go there now!

 

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View Upcoming Event Calendar

Get up-to-the minute announcements of the when, where and whys of local social business events. Go there now!

 

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Local Theater and the Arts

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Click here for all local Theater and Arts events this week!

   

Conservation-Land Walking Tours in and around Westport

Explore Westport one step at a time!  Click here!

 

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