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Bridgewater BuzzAround
September 20, 2026
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Bridgewater Community Comes Together to Commemorate
25th Anniversary of September 11
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On Friday, September 11, the Bridgewater community gathered at the Bridgewater Fire Department Headquarters to commemorate the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, and honor those who lost their lives, the survivors, and the first responders who answered the call that day.
Hosted by Bridgewater Veterans' Service Officer Gregory Martin, the ceremony brought together members of the Bridgewater Fire Department and Police Department, local veterans, town officials, clergy, and community members. The morning included the posting of the colors, the national anthem, an invocation, remarks from local leaders, a wreath-laying ceremony, a moment of silence, and musical tributes.
Fire Chief John Schlatz reflected on the responsibility to keep the stories of September 11 alive for generations who did not experience the day themselves.
“We must continue telling those stories. Not to preserve the fear, but to preserve gratitude. Not to relive the hatred, but to remember the courage.”
Town Council President Dr. Paul Murphy brought that message back to the community, noting that the spirit of service remembered on September 11 continues through the people who serve Bridgewater today.
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“The spirit of service we witnessed on September 11th did not begin or end that day. It exists in communities like ours every single day.”
The ceremony concluded with a police and firefighter tribute, wreath laying, a gun salute, Taps, Amazing Grace on bagpipes, a moment of silence, and the retiring of the nation's colors.
Twenty-five years after September 11, Bridgewater's gathering offered an opportunity not only to remember the past, but to recognize the community, service, and courage that continue today.
Written by: Justine McConnell, BuzzAround Intern
Source: BTV Access Corporation
| | Bridgewater Memorial Library: A Memorial Built for the Living | |
Bridgewater Memorial Library: A Memorial Built for the Living
In the late 1800s, communities throughout New England created memorials honoring those who had died during the Civil War. In Bridgewater, residents chose to create a memorial that would serve the community for generations to come: a library.
On May 30, 1878, Bridgewater’s Decoration Day Committee adopted a resolution calling for the construction of a Memorial Library. Construction began in 1881, and the building was dedicated on May 30, 1883.
The three-room library included a book room, reading room, and museum. By 1884, it held 5,200 books and provided residents with a place to read, learn, and gather.
The memorial can still be seen in the historic building today. Tennessee marble tablets beside the entrance bear the names of 36 Bridgewater soldiers who died during the Civil War, while terra cotta lettering above the entrance reads “A Memorial” and “1881.”
The Memorial Library later ceased to serve as Bridgewater’s public library when a new library opened on South Street in 1972.
Can you guess what happened to the historic Memorial Library after the town’s new library opened?
Written by: Justine McConnell, BuzzAround Intern
Source & Photo: Massachusetts Historical Commission MACRIS
| |  | Find Bridgewater resources including food pantries on : Hive Connect | |
Congratulations
James Hill
you won
a $25 gift certificate to Johnny Macaroni's Restaurant, East Bridgewater & Halifax
johnnymacaronis.com
Bee sure to play our Historical Tidbit Trivia Game at the bottom of this newsletter.
Enter for this week's prize of
a free two weeks of training and a free uniform from Unity Martial Arts, Raynham
| | | Bridgewater Square Chiropractic | Move Better * Feel Better * | | SoftWave Therapy accelerates healing, reduces pain, and activates connective tissue. | |
Book your appointment today! * 508 697 - 0050
63 Main Street, Bridgewater, MA
www.bwatersqchiro.com
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September Art Exhibit
Artist Reception with Stephen Smalley
Wed, Sept 23
4:00p - 7:00p
Bridgewater Public Library
15 South Street, Bridgewater
Stephen Smalley, a Bridgewater resident and professor emeritus at Bridgewater State University, graduated from Massachusetts College of Art, State College at Boston, and The Pennsylvania State University. He joined the art faculty at BSU in 1972 and served as department chair from 1972-1984. Dr. Smalley retired in 2005 and taught part-time until 2022. He chaired the Emeriti Faculty Club (revised to Retired Faculty Club) from 2011-2022.
Source: Bridgewater Public Library
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A $5/ month subscription Keeps Us Connected. Your support helps us Buzzing Around weekly news, events, and activities that show the value of community. With you, we build bridges: spotlight neighbors helping neighbors and support organizations. Keeping our common spaces open and accessible to all. Thank you!! | | | | | |
13th Annual History Mystery Walking Tour of Bridgewater, MA
Sat, Sep 26
5:45p-8:45p (Check in at Music Alley at 5:30p)
Music Alley, 50 Central Square
Perfect for history buffs and curious explorers looking to uncover hidden stories and little-known facts about the town. Lace up your walking shoes and get ready for an engaging adventure filled with intriguing tales and local legends. The entry fee is $20 per person. All proceeds will benefit Bridgewater Academy Lions Club charities, the Robert L. Smith Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund, and the VFW 2125 Auxiliary.
Source: History Mystery Walking Tour Sep 26 EventBrite
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6th Annual Peace In Bridgewater And Beyond Program
Now through September 27
All events are free, open to the public and held in various locations in Bridgewater.
Bridgewater International City of Peace Coalition has organized this week-long program recognizing the International Day of Peace (September 21). This year’s theme is “Invest in Peace – for Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day.”
The Bridgewater International City of Peace Coalition is comprised of Bridgewater Communities for Civil Rights, Bridgewater Public Library, Bridgewater United Methodist Church, BSU Martin Richard Institute for Social Justice, BSU Minnock Institute for Global Engagement, BSU Social Justice Choir, Cedar Street Community Center, Central Square Congregational Church, First Parish Unitarian Universalist, and Rotary Club of the Bridgewaters.
For more information, go to Bridgewater Communities for Civil Rights
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Lots to choose from for your fall decorating needs!
9 & 12 inch mums *Snowball pumpkins
Mini pumpkins and gourds * Cornstalks Sugar pumpkins * Decorative corn
Hay bales ...and sooooo much more!
Open 7 days a week, 8am–6pm
416 Plymouth Street, Halifax
(781) 293-6792
www.nessrallafarm.com
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Tea Tree Special
Detox Foaming Salt Scrub
@ Salon Esprit
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Autumn-Fest
Sat, Sep 26
10:00a-4:00p
Bridgewater State University Quadrangle,
131 Summer St.
Join the Bridgewater Business Association for a Vendor Fair on the quad of BSU with food trucks, petting zoo, train rides, music, activities, and more.
All event proceeds support the BBA's Community Assistance Fund, which provides emergency financial assistance for heat, utilities, and housing to local residents.
Source: 2026 Autumn-Fest Vendor Registration Eventbrite
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Climate Can Do - Pack a Sustainable Lunch!
Looking for an easy way to make your lunch a little more sustainable? You may already have everything you need! Take a look in your refrigerator, freezer, or pantry.
Last night's leftovers can become today's lunch and a reusable container or water bottle can replace a disposable one. Get creative and give yesterday's dinner a lunchtime makeover by adding leftover vegetables to today's wrap or salad, or combining leftover chicken, rice, and vegetables to create a filling bowl. Using what you already have can help reduce food waste, save money, and make lunch a little more fun. For more ideas on preventing food waste at home, visit U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Written by: Justine McConnell, BuzzAround Intern
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Equipment For Your Yard-work When You Need It!
Bobcat Ride-on Aerator.
Model AE30S. $295 per day
Eliet Eco Cure
Top Dresser $349 per day
Grant's Rental
10 Bedford Street Bridgewater
www.grantsrental.com
(508) 279-0950
GrantsRental FB
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A $5/ month subscription Keeps Us Connected. Your support helps us Buzzing Around weekly news, events, and activities that show the value of community. With you, we build bridges: spotlight neighbors helping neighbors and support organizations. Keeping our common spaces open and accessible to all. Thank you!! | | | | | |
2nd Annual Bridgewater Car Show For A Cause 2026
Sun, Sep 27
11:00a-2:00p
80 Spring St.
This show will have music, great food, raffles, and trophies. The price is $20 per car display. This event will raise funds for Angels in America, the Seven Line Project, and the Bridgewater 4th of July Committee.
Source: Bridgewater Car Show For a Cause 2026 Humanitix Page
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1st Annual Dick "The Unit" Fowler
BTV Day
Sat, Oct 3
2:00p-5:00p
Town River Landing (The Launch), 80 Spring St.
This event is a community-wide celebration dedicated to the mission of BTV Access Corporation—empowering residents through education, technology, and local storytelling. Residents are invited to step behind the scenes and experience firsthand the technology, talent, and community spirit that power local television. This event will also include live music, family-friendly festivities, and opportunities for community engagement, creating an atmosphere that reflects the broader mission of BTV and the Fire For Effect Foundation: bringing people together through shared experiences, local pride, and public participation.
Source: BTV Access Corporation
| | Enjoy Our Folksy Video: You've Got to Vote - with Joe Jencks and Rose Conservatory Choir | |
MA INFORMATION FOR VOTERS
2026 Ballot Questions
Tuesday, November 3, 2026
Dear Voter:
On Tuesday, November 3, 2026, you will have the opportunity to make your voice heard. If you prefer to vote sooner, you can vote early or by mail. Early voting will be held October 17-30. On Election Day, all polling places will be open from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m.
If you are not registered to vote, or you have moved since the last election, visit www.VoteInMA.com to register, check your registration information, and update your address. You must be registered to vote by Saturday, October 24, in order to participate in this election.
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This year, there will be nine binding statewide ballot questions, the most that Massachusetts voters have ever been asked to consider. This official 2026 Information for Voters book contains information on all nine questions, including a summary of each proposal, the full text of the proposed/existing law, statements describing the effect of a yes or no vote, and brief arguments for and against each question.
The information in this book will assist you in making a thoughtful decision before you vote. With a longer ballot than usual, you may want to take notes and bring this book with you when you go to the polls.
The choices you make in this election will shape the course of government for our state, as well as local communities. I urge you to participate in this process, because your vote matters.
Very truly yours,
William Francis Galvin
Secretary of the Commonwealth
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Bridgewater Police Department to Host Crucial Catch Blood Drive
Sat, Oct 10
8a–2:30p
Bridgewater Police Department
220 Pleasant Street, Bridgewater
The Bridgewater Police Department will host a community blood drive in partnership with the Kraft Family Blood Donor Center as part of the Crucial Catch campaign. Community members are invited to donate blood and help provide a lifesaving resource to patients in need.
Each donor will receive a Crucial Catch sweatshirt as a thank-you. Appointments can be scheduled using the QR code on the event flyer, and walk-ins are welcome as time allows. Donors must bring a photo ID.
Questions: 617-632-3206
Registration: Blood Donor Center
| | Bridgewater Rotarian Receives International Peace Award | | |
Dr. Frances M. Jeffries, a member of the Rotary Club of the Bridgewaters, has been awarded the 2026 Rotary International Zone 32 Donald MacRae Peace Award for her long-standing work promoting peace, international understanding and humanitarian service.
The award recognizes a Rotarian or Rotary organization each year for work consistent with Rotary's goal of advancing international understanding, goodwill, and peace. Jeffries has been involved with Rotary since 1987, when she was inducted into the Turlock Rotary Club in California, and was among the first women to join the organization.
Much of Jeffries' Rotary work has focused on international service. She has helped develop and monitor adult literacy projects in Ethiopia and South Africa, assisted with literacy efforts connected to Water for Cambodia, and has served as a ShelterBox Ambassador since 2000. ShelterBox provides emergency shelter and essential supplies to people affected by disasters and conflict.
Her work also has a local connection. In 2020, Jeffries established Peace in Bridgewater and Beyond/International City of Peace, bringing a focus on peacebuilding and international understanding to the Bridgewater community. She currently serves as co-chair of Rotary District 7950's Peacebuilding, Conflict Prevention and Resolution Committee.
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Jeffries' approach to peacebuilding centers on bringing people and organizations together, finding common ground and working toward lasting solutions. Her latest recognition highlights decades of service that have connected the Bridgewater community with humanitarian and peacebuilding efforts around the world.
Written by: Justine McConnell, BuzzAround Intern
Source: Frances Jeffries / Rotary Club of the Bridgewaters
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WEEKLY TRIVIA GAME
Have fun with us and bee entered to win:
a free two weeks of training and a free uniform from Unity Martial Arts, Raynham
Historical Tidbit Question:
How many books did the Bridgewater Memorial LIbrary contain in 1884?
Email us your answer at:
Prizes@buzzaround.info
Please include your name and phone number.
Prize Box Rules
By entering, you give us permission to print your name in next week's Buzz Around.
On September 23, 2026, before 2p, we will randomly pick a winner from the correct answers.
| The Buzz Around is brought to you this week by: Gabriel Michael Alexander, Jennifer Bellody, Justine McConnell, Jacquelyn Rose, Caitlin Shea & Greg Venezia | Your BuzzAround supports the dignity of all human beings, is actively anti-racist, and supportive of good law enforcement policies. | | | |
#Shop Small!
Independent coffee shops, hair and nail salons, corner stores, spas, boutique clothing stores, consignment shops, restaurants, craft stores, bars, fruit & veggie markets, shoe/bike/tire repair shops, art supply stores, gift shops, gas stations, pet stores, and many, many more exist within 10 miles of your home.
1. Small businesses give back (more) to your community. When you support a local business, you’re also supporting your town, city, and neighborhood. Businesses pay taxes that support public schools, parks, roads, and sidewalks, as well as public service workers, like firefighters.
2. Small businesses make a major economic impact. More than half of the U.S.’s jobs since 1995 were created by small businesses. Shopping at a local store creates potential job opportunities.
3. Small businesses provide better customer service. They have the ability to provide more personable, hands-on, and memorable customer service.
4. Small businesses provide greater access to product diversity. If a small business doesn’t have the products you want or need, ask them!
5. Small businesses create a sense of community. You’re much more likely to get to know a small business owner and other customers in your neighborhood.
6. You’re going to feel good Shopping Small! Get vocal on social. *Post pictures and status updates, hashtag #ShopSmall* Write positive reviews for the small businesses you love and support.
| Where you shop makes a difference, for you, your family, your community & the environment. ~ Jacquie | | | |
Copyright 2026 Buzz Around Bridgewater. You have our permission to share and copy this issue in its entirety as much as you like. If you take it in part, please give credit. ("Buzz Around Bridgewater 9/20/26")
Disclaimer: At the Buzz Around, we promote community and family. There are links to town committees and other non-profit groups in the newsletters. Individual groups are responsible for how they represent themselves on their websites and in their promotional materials. BuzzAround is not responsible for the media content of other organizations.
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