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Author: Kayla Rochon

Groveland Water and Sewer Department Shares Information on Expected Water Quality Regulation Changes, Offers Guidance to Residents

GROVELAND– Superintendent Colin Stokes, Groveland Water and Sewer Department, and the Groveland Board of Water Commissioners would like to share information regarding the expected regulation changes. 

State and federal drinking water regulations are expected to change and Groveland Water and Sewer would like to share the following information about the changes. 

Groveland Water and Sewer is proactively working on options for the new regulation guidelines proposed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Once the new regulations are accepted by the state, Groveland will be expected to take immediate action. 

The current regulations for PFAS public drinking water standard or Maximum Contaminant Level (MMCL), as published in 2020 by EPA, is 20 nanograms per liter (ng/L) or parts per trillion (ppt) applicable to the community. This regulation takes into account the concentrations of six specific PFAS.

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are man-made and do not break down quickly. 

Currently, Groveland is well below the standard for the MMCL and has been sampling monthly and quarterly since 2021, with steady results of 4.1075 ppt at Well 1 and 4.392 ppt at Well 3.

The water is safe to drink per the current Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP). 

As of March 2023, the EPA released a proposed National Primary Drinking Water Regulation for PFOA and PFOS, which is 4 ppt. This regulation would cover Four additional PFAS compounds, which will be measured using a Hazard Index. A Hazard Index is a calculation based upon a formula provided by the EPA.

Regulations are determined by the maximum contaminant level due to PFAS.

The Groveland Board of Water Commissioners is currently looking into a variety of options to meet these regulations. The goal is to find a solution with the least impact on residents and ratepayers. Options include: 

  • Building a water treatment/filtration plant in Groveland
  • Finding sufficient new water sources that will comply with the upcoming PFAS regulations.
  • Purchasing water from a neighboring community

The new regulations are currently expected to be adopted by the end of 2024, or early 2025. The timeline for compliance has not yet been determined. 

Information about this process will be shared with residents as it becomes available.

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Town of Groveland, Massachusetts

Groveland Water and Sewer Receive $959,752 in Federal Funding for Department Infrastructure Improvements 

GROVELAND —  Town Administrator Rebecca Oldham and Water and Sewer Superintendent Colin Stokes are pleased to share that the Groveland Water Department has received a federal grant from Congressman Seth Moulton to invest in the Department’s infrastructure. 

Groveland Water received $959,752 which will be used to help make repairs to the water mains on Washington Street, Wood Street, and Balch Ave. The mains, which are close to a century old, are significantly undersized. Replacing these mains will improve water quality and quantity and create another water line to the town’s nearest water tower.

“This funding will play a pivotal role in modernizing our water distribution system and providing the town with increased access to better quality water,” said Town Administrator Oldham. “These necessary updates will provide many benefits to the community. We are grateful to Congressman Moulton for his support.”

Congressman Moulton secured $13.5 million to disperse between 15 different community improvement projects in fiscal year 2024 regulations. Representatives are permitted under guidelines issued by the House Appropriations Committee to request funding for a limited number of community projects within their district.

The selected projects will improve infrastructure and climate resiliency, expand workforce development and veteran services, and invest in childcare and education. Other towns awarded funding include Beverly, Lynn, Salem, Rockport, Wakefield, Tewksbury, Danvers, Amesbury, Manchester-By-The-Sea, Wilmington, and Gloucester.

“I would like to thank Congressman Moulton, his regional Director Tom Arsenault, and the many other staff members who helped pull this all together. I would also like to thank Town Administrator Rebecca Oldham for playing a pivotal role in securing this funding source,” said Superintendent Stokes. 

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Groveland Council on Aging to Host Coffee and Conversation with Special Guest Maria Stephanos in Celebration of International Women’s Day

WCVB NewsCenter 5 Anchor Maria Stephanos (Photo Courtesy WCVB CH 5)

GROVELAND — Director Alyssa Lee is pleased to announce that the Groveland Council on Aging is hosting a coffee and conversation with special guest Maria Stephanos in celebration of International Women’s Day. 

WHEN: 

Saturday, March 9, at 1 p.m.  

WHERE: 

Groveland COA Office, 183 Main St.  

WHAT: 

This year International Women’s Day is observed on Friday, March 8 and in recognition Groveland Council on Aging will be hosting a coffee and conversation event for residents with special guest NewsCenter 5 co-anchor and esteemed journalist Maria Stephanos. 

Stephanos, who grew up in Groveland, will share her journey with residents and community members. The event will highlight Stephanos’ influential role as a woman in power, tracing career to her current prestigious position. Her narrative embodies strength, resilience, and the art of balancing a career, motherhood, and everyday life. 

The event is free and open to the public. RSVP is required, and priority registration is available to Groveland’s older adult residents through Feb. 28. 

Complimentary coffee, tea, and refreshments will be provided, courtesy of the Groveland COA.   

To RSVP to the event or for more information please contact the COA at 978-372-1101 or COA@grovelandma.com 

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Town of Groveland, Massachusetts

Groveland Council on Aging Announces January, February Programs and Events

GROVELAND – Director Alyssa Lee and Assistant Director Nisha Burke are pleased to share Groveland Council on Aging’s January and February programs and events. 

The Groveland Council on Aging offers older adult residents a variety of programs and events each month. January and February activities include: 

Van Trips 

Tuesday, Jan. 16 at 9 a.m. 

  • Trip to Encore Casino, located in Everett, MA. The event is $15 per person; everyone is responsible for their own lunch expense. RSVP is required. 

Monday, Jan. 29 at 9 a.m. 

  • Join Groveland COA for a day of surprises and exploration with the Mystery Ride! This adventure will take residents to a fun destination, in what is sure to be an enjoyable experience. 
  • The event is $15 per person and RSVP is required. 
  • Lunch is not covered in the price of travel and individuals will be responsible for covering their own lunch.

Thursday, Feb. 8 at 10:40 a.m

  • Poet’s Inn Lunch Outing at Whittier Tech located in Haverhill, MA. Come along for good company and a delicious meal at this charming destination. The event is $8 and RSVP is required. 
  • Lunch is not covered in the price of travel and individuals will be responsible for covering their own lunch.

Monday, Feb. 26 at 9 a.m. 

  • Join us for an enriching trip to the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, MA! Explore captivating exhibits and immerse yourself in art and culture.
  • The van ride cost is $15 (payable to Town of Groveland, COA) with a museum entry fee of $13 (pay at the museum). Check out local libraries for free museum  passes.
  • RSVP is required. Lunch is not covered in the price of travel and individuals will be responsible for covering their own lunch. 

Movie Monday’s Town Hall Center Hall Meeting Room at 11 a.m.  

  • Jan. 8: “Oppenheimer” (2023), R, Thriller/Biopic, starring Cillian Murphy, Emily Blunt, Matt Damon.  
  • Jan. 22: “The Miracle Club” (2023), Comedy/Drama, starring Maggie Smith,  Laura Linney, and Kathy Bates.  
  • Feb.5: “A Haunting in Venice” (2023), Mystery/Crime, starring Kenneth Branagh, Michelle Yeoh and Jamie Dornan.  
  • Feb. 12: “What Happens Later” (2023), Romance/Comedy, starring David Duchovny and Meg Ryan.  

Monthly Mélange – Classes are Free, please RSVP 

Saturday, Jan. 13 at 2 p.m.: OmDrum Circle 

  • The OmDrum Circle, led by instructor Mitch ‘Pasha’ Cohen offers a one-hour instructional drum circle experience. Using the drum as a powerful tool for meditation and self-healing, participants delve into an inclusive and judgment free zone. Featuring African and Western styles of hand drumming, this session welcomes individuals of all ages and experience levels. For older adults, drumming has shown numerous benefits including improved cognitive function, stress reduction, enhanced motor skills, and a sense of community and connection. Drums are provided. The event is free, and RSVP is required.
  • Event is held at the Center Hall Meeting Room at Town Hall. 

Monday, Feb. 5 at 1 p.m.: Floral Harmony 

  • In this session, facilitated by Nunan Florist & Greenhouses, residents will learn the essentials for choosing the right plants for their home and tips to ensure they thrive. This event is free, and RSVP is required. 
  • Event is held at the Center Hall Meeting Room at Town Hall. 

Health and Wellness Classes 

Tuesdays at 9 a.m., 3B Fitness: Bones, Brains & Balance: 

  •  Join certified personal trainer Brian Coyne, weekly, on Tuesdays at 9am. Payment accepted day of class. $5/class. Meets in Fire Station Meeting Room. 

Tuesdays at 1 p.m. on Jan. 30 and Feb. 13: Indoor Ping Pong and Corn Hole: 

  • Head to the Center Meeting Room inside Town Hall for a lively session filled with fun and friendly competition. This session is a great way to stay active during the winter months. This event is free.  

Thursdays at 10 a.m. on Jan. 4, Jan. 18, Feb. 1, and Feb. 8: Meditation & Mindfulness Classes in Center Hall Meeting Room 

  • Join us for a guided mindfulness meditation session. Relax, unwind, and learn techniques to cultivate mindfulness. Suitable for beginners and those seeking a peaceful break from daily stress. Instructor: Deborah Fay D’Onofrio. $5 per class, and RSVP is Required as a minimum of six participants are needed. Classes will be held in the Center Hall Meeting Room at Town Hall. 

Fridays at 10:45am: Yoga with Mary Van Abs in the Center Meeting Room in Town Hall

  • Payment accepted day of class. $5/class. All levels welcome. Yoga will be held in the Center Hall Meeting Room at Town Hall. 

Educational and Informational programming 

Tech Talk & Troubleshooting, Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. on Jan. 4, Jan. 11, Feb. 1 and Feb. 15. 

  • Get personalized tech help from Matt McNichols on cell phones, tablets, and laptops. Boost confidence at all skill levels, whether you are a beginner or looking for advanced tips.
  • This free program is offered in partnership with Langley-Adams Library. RSVP is required. Classes will be held in the Center Hall Meeting Room at Town Hall. 

Cooking for One (or Two), Tuesday Jan. 9 at 1 p.m.  

  • This session dives into the significance of key nutrients and offers practical tips on meal planning for individuals or couples. Presented by Leigh Hartwell MS, RDN, LDN, Dietitian from AgeSpan. This event is free, and RSVP is required. Sessions will be held in the Center Hall Meeting Room at Town Hall. 

Explore the Gilded Age, Thursday, Jan. 18 at 1 p.m. 

  • During this engaging presentation with Lee Thomas. Think of this as a look behind the scenes of ones favorite period drama. Residents will discover the era’s history, culture, and notable figures that shaped this transformative period in American society. 
  • This event is free, and will be held in the Center Hall Meeting Room at Town Hall. and RSVP is encouraged to ensure there are enough seats and refreshments for everyone.

Dementia Friends Information Session, Thursday Jan. 25 at 1:30 p.m. or Thursday Feb. 15 at 6 p.m. 

  • Information Session to discover simple yet impactful ways to support individuals living with dementia. By learning together residents can help make a meaningful difference in their lives. Facilitated by Groveland COA Director Alyssa Lee. This event is free, and RSVP is required. 

Weekly Games 

Wednesdays: Games, Talk and Fun  

  • Join the Groveland COA every Wednesday from 12-3 p.m. for games, laughter and new connections. Enjoy Rummikub, cribbage, Mahjong, chess, Rummy and more. Residents are encouraged to drop by and stay as long as they like, and relish in friendly competition over complimentary coffee and tea. 
  • Note: No game day on Feb. 28. For specific game schedules or for further details, visit the Groveland COA website here

Constituent Services and Legal Support 

  • State Representative Adrianne Ramos: Office hours, for one-on-one meetings, Fridays at 10 a.m. on Jan. 12 and Feb. 9. Please RSVP. 
  • Senator Tarr’s Constituent Services: with Mary Ann Nay, District Director Office of State Senator Bruce E. Tarr, Senate Minority Leader (617) 722-1600 or Maryann.Nay@masenate.gov.  Tuesdays at 10:30-11:30 a.m. on Jan.16 and Tuesday Feb. 20.  
  • Veterans Services with Mike Ingham: Contact Mike at 978-973-2118 or mingham@grovelandma.com. Monthly office hours take place in the COA Outreach Office on Mondays from 1-3:30 p.m. on, Jan. 29 and Feb. 26. 
  • Legal Monday with Attorney Elaine Dalton, Jan. 18 and Feb. 12 from 10-11 a.m.: Free 15 min legal consult. Please call the COA office to reserve your spot.  

Food and Nutrition 

Groveland COA Food Pantry:  

  • Fresh, frozen and pantry stable food available. Wednesdays Hours: Open drop-in 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. 
  • Our Pantry operates under normal COA office hours on other days as well, but we recommend calling the COA office to schedule an appointment and ensure we are available to assist you. 
  • Delivery is available for homebound seniors. Please call the COA office to schedule a delivery by 11 a.m. on Tuesdays for a Wednesday delivery. 

Grocery Shopping Trip w/ COA Van on Wednesdays at 9 a.m.: 

  • RSVP is required for residents who wish to attend. 

Traveling Chef Meal (Free courtesy of AgeSpan and Groveland COA): 

  • First 45 callers receive free lunch delivery. Call the COA at 978-372-1101. 
  • Thursday, Jan. 25: Clam Chowder, Broccoli Cheddar Garden Salad, Brownie, Bread Bowl, and Juice. 
  • Thursday, Feb. 15: Pork and Chicken Lo Mein, Asian Veggie Blend, Pineapple Upside Down Cake, Fortune Cookie, and Juice. 

Mobile Market Grocery Delivery: 

  • Fresh grocery bag delivery is typically available on the first Tuesday of the month. However, please note that due to the New Year’s Holiday, January’s delivery will take place on the 9th. 
  • Arrange for assistance by calling the Groveland COA office at 978-372-1101. 

Meals on Wheels ($2 per meal, billed directly to the individual): 

  • For homebound elders, call COA at 978-372-1101 for assistance. 

Monthly Luncheons ($5 per person and RSVP required) 

  • Pentucket High School Music Showcase and Luncheon, Thursday, Jan 11. At 12:15 p.m.: Join the Groveland COA for a showcase featuring the talents of Pentucket High School’s concert band, orchestra, choir, and percussion students! Before the concert, enjoy a delightful spread of pizza, sandwiches, and salads. 
  • Retro Hits Luncheon with Dan Kirouac, Thursday Feb. 22 at 11:30 a.m.: A catered lunch of Chinese Cuisine and groove to the tunes of the 50s, 60s, and 70s performed by Dan Kirouac. 

Residents can also register for any of the events listed by clicking here or by emailing Assistant Director Nisha Burke at NBurke@grovelandma.com.

Residents can also sign-up for a new Council on Aging Key Tag that will allow residents to sign-up for programs online or in-person at the touch screen kiosk at the COA office. 

For more information about the Groveland COA or to stay up to date with the latest programs, services and eventsclick hereor call 978-372-1101. 

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