August 18, 2024



~ Building Community One Positive Story at a Time.

Smooth Sailing Ahead ~ River Now Clear for Kayakers & Canoeists!

"Calling all Kayak and canoe people! A portion of the tree blocking the river upstream from the Forest St bridge has been removed. The river is once again passable. Thanks Jack & Glenn!"



Reposted from WB Open Space & Conservation FB

Historical Tidbit: Early WB Industry

"Captain Ames as blacksmith and shovel manufacturer depended on the plentiful bog iron that was to be found in Bridgewater's wetlands. Bog ore was discovered in the area in the 17th century and initially was worked on the Town River into small implements and household fixtures such as hooks, hinges and hasps, wheels, axles and horse shoes. At that time, blacksmiths also melted the ore and cast it in molds to make cooking pots and large kettles called hollow ware. But it was Captain Ames who took the bog ore from small scale blacksmith use to foundry use as pig iron. Ames accomplished his manufacturing feat by installation of two important features at the West Bridgewater site that depended on the water power that he shaped at the park. The first was a water-powered blower system that replaced the blacksmith's bellows, increased and sustained furnace temperatures. Ames's brick furnaces were top-loaded with bog ore, charcoal and limestone; their interior temperatures were kept high by use of the blower system. Pig iron was the molten ore that ran off from the base of the furnaces into a series of sand troughs known as the "Sow and Pigs". Once in the sand troughs it cooled into bars that were 4" x 40". It was then reheated and hammered to a more malleable and useable state

known as wrought iron. Before Ames, the hammering was done by hand, but Ames second important manufacturing feature was installation of a trip hammer, run on water power, that did the hammering work more efficiently than a single individual could. The trip, or tilt hammer was a timber - hung off-center from a beam - that fell with great force when tripped by a foot release and was then pulled back up by water power. Ames's trip hammer was used to shaped the pig iron barns into shovel blades that were attached to wooden

handles a dozen a day and then shipped off for sale. During the Revolution Ames was active fashioning small arms as well as shovels, but it was the shovels that proved the most valuable long-term product. The trip hammer block (ca. 1774) is located in War Memorial Park, as are two undated grist mill stones that were recovered in the park land." 

Reposted from: Mass Cultural Resource Information System

Town Hall

  508-894-1200

WestBridgewaterMa.org

WB Public Library

508-894-1255

westbpl.org

Council on Aging

508-894-1262

COA

Food Pantry

Proof of residency is the only requirement.

1st & 3rd Wednesday each month

1:45 - 3p & 5:30 - 6p

457 rear, South Main St., Suite #1

508-510-5274  westbridgewaterfoodpantry@gmail.com

Congratulations!

Rita Leonard

won 

1 hour Living in the Gift coaching from GleeWorks

Learn mind-body spirit practices with Marcy Venezia building a foundation for healing. ($80 value.) GleeWorks.net

Bee sure to play our Historical Tidbit Trivia Game at the bottom of this newsletter.



Enter for this week's prize of:

$15 gift certificate to Pinches & Pounds

Candy Store Rt 18, Whitman

www.pinchesandpounds.com

An Exploration of Friendship, Reckoning, and Hope with Novelist Shelby Van Pelt

Wed, Aug 21st

7p

West Bridgewater Library



Remarkably Bright Creatures tells the heartwarming and mysterious tale of Tova Sullivan, a widow who forms an unlikely friendship with Marcellus, a giant Pacific octopus residing at the Sowell Bay Aquarium. This touching narrative unravels as Tova, still grieving the unexplained disappearance of her son 30 years ago, begins to find solace and answers through her unique bond with Marcellus. The octopus, with his extraordinary intelligence, holds the key to unlocking the truth behind her son's fate—a truth that will change Tova’s life forever.

This conversation is more than just a discussion of a novel; it’s a deep dive into the themes of healing, the power of unexpected friendships, and the courage it takes to confront the past. Shelby Van Pelt's writing is both charming and thought-provoking, making Remarkably Bright Creatures a must-read and this event a must-attend.

Don’t miss the chance to hear directly from the author about her inspiration, her writing process, and the remarkable creatures—both human and aquatic—that inhabit her story. Whether you’ve read the book or are simply intrigued by the themes, this event promises to be an enriching experience.

Written by Wenhan Liu, Boston University BuzzAround Intern

Story & Image Source: West Bridgewater Public Library Event Web Page

Summer Perler Bead Creative Hour

Thu, Aug 22

3-4p

WB Public Library

Unleash your creativity at the Summer Perler Bead Creative Hour! Join us for a fun-filled hour where you can use the library's supply of Perler beads to design and create your unique projects. While this month's theme is "Summer," you're welcome to let your imagination run wild and craft anything you like with the available supplies.

Don't miss out on this creative opportunity to express yourself and make something wonderful!

Source: West Bridgewater Public Library Event Web Page

WBYAA Outdoor Movie Night 

Fri, Aug 23 

6p 

Join WBYAA for an outdoor movie night on August 23rd at the baseball fields. Bring chairs and blankets for a fun evening under the stars with the community! The snack shack will be open, and snacks will be available for sale.

Source: WBYAA FB

Voting for State Primary

Sat, Aug 24 - Fri, Aug 30

Town Hall

65 N. Main St

Attention Voters! The Early Voting Period for State Primary will run from August 24 through August 30, except on Sunday, August 25. Every voter can go to the Town Hall during its open hours. The open hours for each early voting day may vary so please check the time arrangement before you go.

For details and time arrangement: Town of West Bridgewater Web Page

Sharpie Coasters

Wed, Aug 21

6-7p

WB Public Library

During this event, you'll learn how to craft beautiful and simple tile coasters using Sharpies and rubbing alcohol. These ceramic tiles are a cost-effective way to create stunning abstract designs that can add a splash of color to your home decor or serve as a thoughtful handmade gift. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or a beginner, this activity is sure to inspire your creativity. Please note that registration is required for this event. Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore your artistic side in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere!

Source: WB Public Library Web Page

Native vs. Invasive Plants Workshop

Sun, Aug 25 

10a

Maple St 

What are those plants invading our gardens and open spaces? Join the West Bridgewater Open Space and Recreation Committee for a walking presentation on invasive plants in our area. Led by Carol Entin, we will explore the conservation land at Maple Street and learn which plants are invasive and which native plants are beneficial to wildlife. look for the Cochesett Preserve sign.

Wear sturdy shoes, long sleeves, and pants for protection.

Source: WB Open Space Committee FB 

WB Water Commissioner's Mtg: August 5, 2024

Courtesy of WB Community Access TV

Climate Can Do:  Overconsumption & Sustainable Practices 

What Is Overconsumption? 

Overconsumption is the excessive consumption or use of something. Without change we could eventually run out, or create more than we can dispose of. 

How Can We Help? 

Live sustainably, make lifestyle choices that help you and the planet. Small changes make a big impact: 

*Walk, bike or take public transportation whenever possible!

*Consider alternatives to single use items: 

•  A reusable shopping bag.
• Skip the plastic bottles; all sorts of reusable bottles can be found in metal, glass and recycled plastic
• Replace Saran Wrap with wraps made from beeswax, cotton, and tree oil that keep food fresher and can be reused repeatedly
• Use reusable towels instead of paper towels

*Consider eating 2 or 3 meatless dinners / week:

• Meat and dairy production account for nearly 14.5% of all global greenhouse gas emissions and meatless diets save people an average of $23 per week on food
•  Also, consider choosing grass-fed beef and / or local meats

Don’t throw away leftovers; eating leftovers will help you avoid food waste and save you money. Freeze pre-made meals for handy eating later.

*Rather than replacing, repair.

Do not automatically discard broken items when they break. Instead, try repairing it. Using this method can save you money and reduce landfill waste. Repair shops and Youtube Videos are readily available to help you fix things.

*Join Buy Nothing.

With Buy Nothing, you can get rid of unwanted things around your house and get things you need for free. As their motto states “Buy Nothing. Share Everything,” a sustainable living app aimed at the community.

*Shop local.

By shopping locally, you reduce the impact of transportation on the environment and support your local economy.

This article was written by Tiana Frias, Stonehill College BuzzAround Intern on overconsumption and ways to limit our resource usage. We’ve got this! 

Source: sentientmedia.org/overconsumption/, green-living.na.panasonic.com/articles/20-frugal-habits-for-an-eco-friendly-lifestyle

Crafting with Elaine 

Fri, Aug 30

1p

West Bridgewater COA

Get into the fall spirit by joining Elaine for a fun and creative crafting session where you'll make your very own Autumn Gnome! This charming craft is perfect for adding a touch of seasonal decor to your home. The workshop costs $7.00, with payment required at the time of signup. Please note that this fee is non-refundable. Be sure to sign up by August 27th to secure your spot. Don't miss this opportunity to create something special while enjoying a relaxing afternoon of crafting!

Source: COA Activities & Events Web Page

WB Board of Assessors Mtg: August 7, 2024

Video Courtesy of WB Community Access TV

Food Pantry Volunteer Spotlight:

Cheryl Chadwick, Director

Cheryl Chadwick, the dedicated Director of the West Bridgewater Food Pantry, has a remarkable journey of service and entrepreneurship. Growing up in Brockton and Easton, Cheryl began her career as a teacher before moving to Saudi Arabia with her husband Ken to work for Aramco. After returning to the U.S., Cheryl transitioned from education to business, successfully running three Hallmark stores and later working at Jordan’s Furniture for 18 years. Upon retiring in 2016, Cheryl found her passion for community service at the West Bridgewater Food Pantry, where she has been a volunteer since. In 2022, she became the Director, continuing to fight food insecurity and support the West Bridgewater community. Cheryl's hands-on approach and genuine care for the well-being of others have inspired many volunteers to join the cause. Her efforts have not only provided essential support to those facing food insecurity but also fostered a sense of community and solidarity. Cheryl’s dedication and leadership inspire many, highlighting the importance of community support and volunteerism.

Written by Wenhan Liu, Boston University BuzzAround Intern

Story & Image Source: West Bridgewater Food Pantry FB Post

Copyright 2024 Buzz Around Brockton. 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 Brockton 8/18/24")

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