Both of you are the total package.”

Sen. James Seveney

PORTSMOUTH — The Town Council Tuesday night approved a proclamation congratulating Escobar Farm on Middle Road for recently being named Rhode Island’s Outstanding Dairy Farm of the Year by the New England Green Pastures Committee.

The 90-cow farm, operated by Louis and Jane Escobar, was selected for the couple’s involvement in dairy farming advocacy and growth, community ties and commitment to farming best practices. 

The couple also received proclamations from the Rhode Island Senate and House of Representatives.

“Both of you are the total package,” Sen. James Seveney told the couple.

“This is truly an honor, and what I do is what I’ve always loved doing,” said Mr. Escobar. “I’m so happy the community has enjoyed it, too.”

Added Ms. Escobar, “You people do support us, which is fantastic. We couldn’t do it if people decided they don’t like the smell of cows or the smell of manure. You people are absolutely fantastic.”

Baseball field lights

In other business, the council approved a request by Portsmouth Little League to begin fund-raising to install lights at the Sherman and Rooney baseball fields at town-owned property behind the Aquidneck Island Christian Academy on East Main Road. 

If enough money is raised for the lights, the project would still need to be reviewed by the Zoning Board of Review.

Veterans to be honored

The council approved a request by Carolyn Evans-Carbery of Project Blue Star to organize an event Nov. 13 to honor Portsmouth residents who served in the Armed Forces during Operation Desert Shield (Aug. 2, 1990 to Jan. 17, 1991) and Operation Desert Storm (Jan. 17, 1991 to Feb. 28, 1991).

Ms. Evans-Carbery said she has identified 50 town veterans who served in the conflicts to date. They will be presented certificates of appreciation.

The ceremony will take place at 6 p.m. during the council’s meeting at Town Hall. To RSVP, call Ms. Evans-Carbery at 401/683-9375 or visit www.portsmouthbluestarproject.net and fill out the RSVP form.

Race for Open Space

The council approved a request by the nonprofit Aquidneck Land Trust (ALT) to host its annual Race for Open Space fund-raiser on the Sakonnet River Greenway Trail on Nov. 4.

The race starts and ends at Glen Farm and will also be run on parts of Bramans Lane and Wapping Road. The race, which begins at 10:30 a.m., attracts about 250 to 300 participants, according to Charles “Chuck” Allott, ALT’s executive director. All proceeds go to support the conservation of open space on Aquidneck Island.

Resignation, appointment

The council accepted the resignation of Sandford Lansing from the Tree Commission, and appointed Nancy L. Tanner to the Conservation Commission.