By Beth David, Editor
Fairhaven Board of Health Chairperson Peter DeTerra insisted last week that the wedding he hosted at his farm for his daughter on 8/29/20 only had 50 guests. But the florist for the event posted photos on social media sites, noting in several posts: “Covid wedding!! Big one! 16 tables, arbor, entry sign in window, wedding party and dog collar!!”
Photos on Facebook and Instagram from the florist, “Sweet Pea Designs and Red Velvet Florist,” were easily matched and compared to Mr. DeTerra’s daughter’s pages.
Photos show rows of chairs not spaced apart during the ceremony, and other tables spaced a few feet apart in the reception area.
The florist also posted a seating board, with 16 tables and names that clearly show nine or 10 names to a table.
The Neighb News was unable to reach Mr. DeTerra by phone, several phone calls over multiple days were not answered or returned. There was no option to leave a message.
In a phone interview, Board of Health member Geoffrey Haworth said he was not at the wedding and he had no way of knowing if the tables were filled or had empty seats.
He said he had not seen any pictures proving that there were more than 50 people at the event.
The maximum allowed on 8/29 was 50 people due to COVID-19 restrictions. The Board of Health is one of the enforcement authorities for COVID related infractions. It is a civil infraction, which could result in a $500 fine. Police were called and noted that they saw 30-40 cars, but they did not enter the premises. (See Neighb News 10/1/20, page 6.)
Mr. Haworth did say that he knew the “state” had already sent a letter, and he was expecting that letter to arrive at the BOH office.
The Neighb News was not able to get a copy of the letter or any documentation from the Department of Public Health, but they did confirm that they have no links between any current cases and the wedding.
Mr. Haworth also took issue with last week’s article mentioning his congratulations post on Facebook. He said it was unfair to single him out and that he was only sending his congratulations as many other people did, who were not mentioned in the article.
“I have no comment,” said Board of Health member Michael Ristuccia. “I do not know if your facts are accurate or not.”
He added that he did not know the facts and knew nothing about a letter from DPH.
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