Redistricting Power Grab + Vaccine Mandate + Stray Dog

Morning, Woonsocket! Here's everything you need to know to get this Wednesday started off right.

Tempers are flaring about the redistricting currently in the works. Also, critics oppose the vaccine mandate for health care workers. Finally, there is a dog that needs help.

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First, today's weather:

Possible light rain overnight. High: 84 Low: 67.

Currently, Patch does not have a local curator for Woonsocket (or Pawtucket!). However, in the interim, we still want to make sure you are up-to-date on all of your local happenings, so I am here to fill in! Although not a local, I will work diligently to keep everyone in the community informed. And, if you are interested in becoming the new local Woonsocket or Pawtucket curator, apply here.

Here are the top stories in Woonsocket today:

1. The R.I. Special Reapportionment Commission has met and begun mulling over how to redraw current voting districts. As you know, Woonsocket Rep. Robert Phillips is a co-chair of the Commission. However, critics suggest that the Commission’s makeup shows a “clear power grab and move to keep diverse voices out of the next decade of decisions.” The Commission meets again tomorrow. (The Brown Herald)
2. There is criticism over Governor Dan McKee vaccine mandate for health care workers. In an open letter, politicians “strongly urge all adults to get vaccinated” but at the same time “also believe none of our 'heroes' should be in the unemployment line should they make the personal decision to decline vaccination.” With the October 1 deadline looming, they request that the Speaker will “reconvene the Rhode Island House of Representatives, in concert with the Rhode Island Senate, to address this extreme and unjust mandate.” Signatories include Woonsocket’s Stephen Lima (Democrat, District 49), Stephen Casey (Democrat, District 50), and Robert Phillips (Democrat, District 51). (UpriseRI)
3. There is a stray dog that is in need of help. It was last seen around the area of Park Avenue, Green Street, and Watson Street. She is skittish, which makes her challenging to approach. Animal Control was unable to find the dog as well. (Friends of Woonsocket Animal Shelter)

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Today in Woonsocket:

• Lops Bingo Night, 122 North Main Street. (3:30 PM)
• Annual Wine Women & Jewelry Event at the Stadium Theatre, 28 Monument Square. (6 PM)
• NA Meeting at 414 South Main Street. (7:30 PM)

Woonsocket Patch Notebook

• Woonsocket Parks & Recreation: "TONIGHT LIVE MUSIC By: The Northeast Groove!" (Facebook)
• Rhode Island Society of CPAs: "CPE, upcoming events and important information! #cpa #financeprofessionals #accountant #accounting #taxadvisors #taxcamp #aicpa #financialadvisors https://conta.cc/3z88nhq" (Facebook)
• RI Hospitality Association: "Members of the RIHA may be eligible for a Shared Earnings endorsement on your workers’ compensation policy with Beacon Mutual. If you are not an existing Beacon Mutual policyholder, please follow the link below to learn more! To learn mo..." (Facebook)
• Harmony Fire District: "We are currently collecting candy donations (individually wrapped please)!" (Facebook)

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You're all caught up for today. I'll be back in your inbox tomorrow with a new update! If you're enjoying these newsletters, consider bringing some friends and neighbors along for the ride. You can send them this link to subscribe.

— Sylvia Cochran

About me: Sylvia Cochran works out of sunny Southern California and has been freelance writing full-time since 2005. Her SEO-optimized internet copy includes social media marketing projects and German to English business translations. She loves dogs, cats, books, plays Fishdom (don't judge), embraces social justice, and tries to live out Micah 6:8.

Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming Woonsocket Daily? Reach out anytime to Woonsocket@Patch.com.