UTC 15.05.01

Transcription

UTC 15.05.01

TOWN CRIER
UPTON & MENDON, MASSACHUSETTS
Est. 1993 • Mailed FREE to all 5,800 addresses in Upton and Mendon.
With a Swish of a Slider and the Crack of the
Bat, It’s Time to Play Ball in Mendon and Upton
Members of three different Upton Baseball teams are pictured here as they
helped kick off the spring baseball season in the Loyalty Day Parade on
Sunday, April 26. In addition to opening ceremonies and speeches from
selectman and members of the VFW, activities were planned throughout the
day including a skills competition and festivities at the VFW. Shelley Ryan
photo. For more Upton Opening Day photos turn to page 10.
Upton Election Scheduled for Monday,
Write-in Needed for School Committee
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UPTON, MA 01568
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Upton, MA 01568
Mendon Junior Baseball and Nipmuc Youth Softball held their annual
Opening Day celebration on Saturday, April 25 in Mendon. Hundreds of
players and coaches marched from Kelley Road to Memorial Park before
taking part in the Opening Day ceremonies, events and games. Melissa Orff
photo.. For more Mendon Opening Day photos turn to page 12.
By Michelle Sanford
Staff Reporter/Columnist
Upton’s polls are open bright and early on May 4
giving voters an opportunity to cast their vote for the
only race in this year’s Annual Town Election; the
Selectman’s three year seat. Newcomer Frank Aniello
is running against longtime Selectman and incumbent
Robert Fleming.
Fleming has been a resident of Upton for more than
40 years and has served as a Selectman for the town for
nearly 28 years. He’s also sat on the Finance Committee
and Personnel Board. Throughout his tenure as
Selectman, Fleming says he’s tried to look to the town’s
future by being proactive and innovative. “Many
people are threatened by change, but a strong leader
works with the community to bring improvements that
benefit all citizens.” If elected again, he says it will be
his last time serving as a Selectman, but during his last
three years in office he will continue to look toward
the Board’s Strategic Leadership Plan which outlines
initiatives to improve services and reduce costs.
As a Board of Selectman’s candidate, Frank Aniello
says it’s about wanting to give back even more to his
home town. As a resident of Upton for approximately
23 years, he has found a number of ways to be involved
in his community. He’s been a longtime member of
Upton Men’s Club; serving as President twice and on
its Board of Directors. He’s also served on the Library
Committee and currently sits on the town’s Capital
Planning Committee. If elected, he says communication
with the residents will play a critical role during his
tenure. “I look forward to listening to the needs of
Upton citizens.” He said he also plans to meet with town
department heads to evaluate budgets and spending
as well as look into the increase of fees residents are
charged.
Although the Selectman’s seat is the only race, a
number of other candidates will be on the ballot and
include Tanna Jango who is running for the three year
seat for the Mendon Upton Regional School District
School Committee; Jango is the incumbent for the
Regional District School Committee’s one year seat,
which has no candidate.
Others on the ballot include Ken Glowacki for the
Collector/Treasurer’s three year seat; Alfred Holman for
the Board of Health’s three year seat; David Loeper for
Moderator for one year; Richard LaCross for Recreation
Commission for three years; John Robertson, Joe
McMahon, and Laurie Woodin for the three Library
UPTON ELECTION p 229
May 1, 2015
Vol. 24 No. 8
www.TownCrier.us
Mendon’s First
Override Vote
on May 1
By Michelle Sanford
One of two Proposition
2 ½ override votes will take
place in Mendon on Friday,
May 1 during the Annual
Town Meeting scheduled
to begin at 7 p.m. at Miscoe
Hill School.
In Article 14 on the
warrant, the Mendon Upton
Regional School District is
requesting a $1.13 million
dollar Proposition 2½
override from Mendon
residents. Several driving
factors behind the override
include increased costs
of contractual salaries,
health insurance costs,
transportation expenses,
and electricity costs, among
others. Included into the
override amount is also
hiring several teachers and
instructional technology.
The estimated tax impact
of the override for the
$400,000 home in Mendon
is $580 per year and for a
$500,000 it will be $725
annually.
Two debt exclusions
are also on the Mendon
warrant. In Article 15 the
Highway Department is
seeking a new $180,000
six-wheel dump truck and
sander for the town. Article
16 involves a possible debt
exclusion, which may be
needed to close a budget
gap for the new library. The
amount for Article 16 is still
being determined but may
total up to $75,000. Should
Articles 15 and 16 come
before voters and pass at the
maximum totals, the two
amounts will be combined.
As a result, the total tax
impact for both is estimated
at .11 cents per thousand of
a home’s value over three
years. Mendon’s ballot vote
for the override and debt
exclusions is scheduled to
take place during the May
12 Town Election at Miscoe
Hill School from 7 a.m. to
8 p.m. Voters in Upton will
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BOB FLEMING
For Selectman
Blackstone Valley Chamber of
Commerce Legislative Breakfast
Commited to the
Citizens of Upton
Service to Upton
VOTE
BOB
FLEMING
May 4th
✔ Board of Selectmen
✔ Finance Committee
✔ Personnel Board
✔ Veteran’s Agent
✔ Nipmuc High School Feasability Study Committee
✔ Nipmuc High School Architectural Design Committee
✔ Memorial School Feasability Committee
✔ Founder Upton, Mendon Multi Board
Service to Others
✔ LT. Commander U.S. Coast Guard Reserve
Operations Command Cape Cod and the Islands
✔ Worcester County Charter Commission
✔ Adjunct Professor of Management at Nichols College
✔ Counselor Boy Scout Troop 132
EXPERIENCE DOES MATTER
Paid for by the Committee to Elect Bob Fleming Selectman
The Worcester Delegation and Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito at the April 14 Blackstone
Valley Chamber of Commerce Legislative Breakfast. Pictured, l-r : Sen. Michael Moore
(D. Millbury); Rep. Dave Muradian (R. Grafton); Rep. Joe McKenna (R. Webster), Jeannie
Hebert, President and CEO of the Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce; Lieutenant
Governor Karyn Polito; Sen. Ryan Fattman (D. Webster) and Rep. Kevin Kuros (R.
Uxbridge). Contributed photo
Spring Time Fun with Teddy Bears
Spring was in the air recently as children in Amy Cowen’s preschool class enjoyed a
Teddy Bear Picnic as a part of the curriculum at United Parish Christian Nursery School.
Children brought their favorite teddy bears or other friends to school and enjoyed a story
read to them by a parent volunteer and a picnic outside. They also had teddy bear dances
and games, a parade and a snack of teddy grahams. For more information on United
Parish Christian Nursery School or to schedule a tour of the school please contact Sandy
Leacu at 508-529-6382 or visit UnitedParishSchool.org.
Salon Richard Anthony
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WE CAN HELP!
Book your fresh spring
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UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER
MAY 1, 2015
Valley Tech a 2015 U.S. Department of
Education Green Ribbon School
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Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School is among the 2015 U.S. Department of Education
Green Ribbon Schools award honorees for its environmental efforts in a number of areas. The pictured solar voltaic
panels on the school roof are just part of that effort. BVT photo
Submitted by Andrew Morrison
Valley Tech
Managing Director of the White House
Council on Environmental Quality Christy
Goldfuss and U.S. Secretary of Education
Arne Duncan have announced that
Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational
Technical High School in Upton is among
the 2015 U.S. Department of Education
Green Ribbon Schools award honorees. Blackstone Valley Tech was nominated
by the Massachusetts Department of
Elementary and Secondary Education and
is one of only three schools in the state
to receive this recognition for reducing
environmental impact and costs, improving
health and wellness of students and staff,
and providing environmental education as
a road to green career pathways.
According to Superintendent-Director
Dr. Michael Fitzpatrick, multiple
renovations over the school’s 50-year
history have increasingly emphasized
energy-efficient features, including solar
arrays, light tubes, displacement ventilation
and high-efficiency lighting. The school’s
curriculum was adapted to complement
the facility’s green technology and
includes lessons in solar, biomass, biofuel,
and geothermal technologies, as well as
conservation calculations and themes.
Valley Tech’s 18 vocational technical
shops have also made green technology
and sustainability cornerstones of their
training, with students and staff operating,
maintaining, and upgrading the school’s
photovoltaic and high-efficiency heating
and cooling systems.
Just-A-Wee-Day
Child Care Center
Established in 1972 by Suzanne Byrne
PRESCHOOL & PRE-K
FALL REGISTRATION
NOW OPEN
New Location!
138 Hartford Ave, Hopedale
508-473-1689
[email protected]
52 weeks a year from
6:30 am - 6 pm
Dannielle Byrne
Providing Quality
Care for Infants
through Age 14.
Director/Owner
Visit us at www.TownCrier.us
MAY 1, 2015
Many programs have also adapted their methods to better
protect the environment. The Multimedia Communications
program transformed into an energy-savings digital media shop
and significantly reduced its use of paper and ink. The school’s
Auto Body shop is one of the first in the nation to use a SimSpray
paint simulator, which allows students to perfect their autopainting techniques without using polluting paints and noxious
fumes. The Construction Technology program converts sawdust
into heat-generating wood pellets, and the Culinary Arts
program recycles cooking oil to create biofuel, which is used to
operate school equipment and machinery.
“Embracing energy efficiency, green technology, and
sustainability is the right thing to do for both our planet and our
students,” said Fitzpatrick. “As we prepare students for the future
workforce, green energy represents a rapidly expanding source
of career opportunities.”
In total, across the country, 58 schools and 14 districts were
honored for their exemplary efforts to reduce environmental
impact and utility costs, promote better health, and ensure
effective environmental education, including civics and green
career pathways. In addition, 9 colleges and universities were
honored for the Postsecondary Sustainability Award. Duncan
and Goldfuss made the announcement at the U.S. Department of
Education, in Washington, D.C.
“These honorees are compelling examples of the ways schools
can help children build real-world skillsets, cut school costs,
and provide healthy learning environments,” Duncan said.
“U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools are an
inspiration and deserve the spotlight for embodying strong
examples of innovative learning and civic engagement. We also
are thrilled to add institutions of higher education to the list of
honorees this year for the first time in the award’s history.”
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Chuck Scharnagle
Mendon Selectman
I'm a husband and father of 4 with over 30 years of experience in
all types of businesses. I have a history of creating alternate
solutions to produce desired results.
You can reach me at 508-634-0464 or visit my website
www.chuckscharnagle.com for more information.
Where I Stand...
Against Proposed School Override - Pro Business
Lower Taxes - Smaller Government
Better Town Services
Paid for by the committee to elect Chuck Scharnagle
3
Milford Catholic Recognized for
40th Anniversary
Crutches For Africa
Used Crutches, Canes,
Folding Walkers & Folding Wheelchairs
to help those in need with mobility,
the most basic human right.
Saturday May 16, 2015
8:00AM – 1:00PM
Donation centers will be located at:
Ocean State Job Lot,
Providence Rd., Whitinsville, MA.
And
The Milford Water Company,
66 Dilla Street, Milford, MA
Town, state, and federal governments recognize Milford Catholic
Elementary School as they celebrate their 40th Anniversary and their
continued role in keeping a 135 year tradition of Catholic Education
alive in the Town of Milford. Award Citations have poured into
the school’s office from Selectmen on behalf of the Town of Milford,
the Massachusetts Governor, Lieutenant Governor, House of
Representatives and Senate, and United States Senate and House of
Representatives. Shown from l-r with the citations are: Rev. Raymond
M. Goodwin, Jr., Principal Marie Sciretta and Rev. Richard A. Scioli
CSS - Pose with Awarded Citations. Milford Catholic photo
Please help us by dropping off any used:
crutches, canes, walkers, or wheelchairs that you have at one of these two locations.
Your donation to this worthwhile cause would be greatly appreciated.
Sponsored by
The Rotary Clubs of Uxbridge & Milford
We Have All You Need
Liquor • Wine • Beer
See our Website for Sales and Events
16 Mendon St., Uxbridge
508-278-5100
Chuck Lynch
lynchswineandspirits.com
Greater Milford
Community
Chorus Spring
Concert
Members of the Greater Milford
Community Chorus will be performing
their annual Spring Concert, Songs from
Stage and Screen, on Saturday evening,
May 2 at 7 p.m. and again on Sunday
afternoon, May 3 at 1:30 p.m. Concerts
are held at the Davoren Auditorium at
Milford High School, 31 West Fountain
St. The auditorium and parking are
handicapped accessible.
Tickets are on sale now from any chorus
member, or at Music & Arts located at 164
Main St, in Milford. Presale tickets are $8
by May 1 or $10 when purchased at the
door. Children under 12 are free.
The Chorus, under the musical
direction of Dan Zabinski of Uxbridge,
has been rehearsing some of your favorite
show tunes. Accompanying the chorus on
piano is Wayne Ward of Hopkinton.
The Greater Milford Community
Chorus is a nonprofit organization
sponsored by the Milford Community
Use Program and the Milford
Cultural Council, which is part of the
Massachusetts Cultural Council. Singers
come from many towns in the wider
community. There is no audition to join
the chorus, just a basic understanding
of music and the ability to carry a tune.
New members are encouraged to join.
More information can be found at www.
greatermilfordcommunitychorus.org or
check us out on Facebook.
Jay Lynch
FRANK
ANIELLO
For Selectman
A NEW VOICE
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
• Upton Capital Budget Committee 4 years
• 15 Years Upton Men’s Club with 2 terms as President
10 years on the Board of Directors
4 years as Chairman of the Auction Committee
• Upton Library Committee 2001 and 2009
• Upton Youth Club Coach 4 years
• Professional Architect 32 years
•
•
•
•
•
I will LISTEN to the citizens of Upton
I will work on constraining tax rates
I will review water and sewer rates
I will review all fees and work to reduce them
I will work with the School Committee to improve our
children’s education and manage costs
• I will work with the School and Police Department on our
school’s drug problem
I am asking for consideration and your Vote
Monday May 4th
I would like to hear from you. Please contact me at [email protected] and let me know your thoughts and concerns
Paid for by the Aniello for Selectman Committee – P.O. Box 451 Upton MA 01568 – [email protected]
4
MAY 1, 2015
Opinion
A VIEW FROM
THE COUNTRY
By Al Holman
On May 4th the polls
will open at 7:00 a.m.
in Upton. Men and women have
given the last measure to assure our
right to vote. Every election day the
polls open and I go down and vote.
I do it because my father fought to
protect that right. I do it because the
sacrifices made by those who have
gone before should not be in vain. I
do it because it is my right and my
obligation.
Those men and women that have
served in the military took an oath,
which follows:
“I do solemnly swear (or affirm)
that I will support and defend the
Constitution of the United States
against all enemies, foreign and
domestic; that I will bear true faith
and allegiance to the same; and that I
will obey the orders of the President
of the United States and the orders
of the officers appointed over me,
according to regulations and the
Uniform Code of Military Justice. So
help me God.”
That oath really tells it all. So when
you go to vote and I hope every one
of you that reads this are registered
voters and go vote. Just remember,
those who have gone before to make
sure you keep the right to vote and
make this country what it is today. It
all starts at the ballot box. The only
way to make it better is to use that
vote to express your opinion.
And that’s looking out my window
- looking forward to my time in the
voting booth.
BLOSSOM
DO-GOOD
by Marilyn Holman
In honor of Ben Franklin,
who wrote a column in a
Boston publication in the
1770s called Silence
DoGood, Marilyn Holman,
Owner/Manager of Town
Crier Publications writes
this column using the pen
name Blossom Do-Good
Next Monday is Election Day in
Upton, and there are some very
important issues on the ballot.
My husband and partner in this
newspaper, Al Holman, in his
column above has just asked you to
make sure and go vote on Monday
because so many have fought and
died for this freedom.
Well, while I respect and understand Al’s position, I DO NOT
AGREE with him.
Voting is a privilege and an obligation. But you also need to understand the issues and the people you
are voting for ... and if you are not
really informed, then you should
NOT VOTE ... because your one
vote can sway the decision without
you even understanding what you
are voting for. Take the time to really
understand what you are voting for
and then vote, or DON’T VOTE! It’s
just not fair to the folks who have
done their homework. Namaste!
LETTERS Letters may be edited for length and clarity and will be published on a space available basis. Maximum
300 words. Must include signature, address & telephone
number.
Opinions expressed are solely those of the writer. Town
Crier Publications will not be responsible for inaccuracies. No
Political Endorsements, please!
Cornerstone at Milford Thanks
Volunteers
To the Editor,
On behalf of Cornerstone at Milford, the staff
and the residents, we want to extend a heartfelt
thank you to two young volunteers—Allie Giardino
and Gianna Silva--who have really made an impact
at our assisted living community this winter.
Volunteers help us offer personalized attention,
creative programs, new relationships, and so much
more, to our residents.
Allie, a Dean College intern who has become a
valued part of our EnrichedLIFE Department, has
a natural aptitude for working with seniors. She
is always warm, friendly and cheerful, as well as a
very committed and driven worker.
Allie has taken the time to really get to know
our residents and has worked with them to create
new programs based on their interests, including
our new Men’s Programs and a very popular
“After Supper Club” where residents gather to
discuss news and current events. She has been
very involved with our veterans as part of a new
project honoring those who have served. We’ve
been truly lucky to have her. Allie will graduate this
Spring, and we wish her all the luck in her future
endeavors.
Gianna, a junior at Milford High School has
been helping out several days a week after school,
working closely with our staff and residents and
assisting with our afternoon events and outings.
Gianna is multi-lingual and has offered to run a
language class for our residents who are interested
in learning French, Spanish, Italian or Portuguese.
Gianna is a great worker, pitching in wherever she
is needed. Our residents simply adore her!
These two volunteers are exceptional young
professionals. Their interest and compassion have
had a profound effect on our residents and the
assistance they’ve provided our staff is always
welcome. The world needs more Allies and
Giannas!
Kathy Starpoli
Director of EnrichedLIFE Programming Cornerstone
at Milford
Thank You to the Mendon Sports
Community
To the Editor
The members of the Grady family extend
a sincere thank you to the Mendon Park
Department for the honor of having the tee- ball
field named in recognition of our participation
as coaches and players in the Mendon Junior
Baseball - Softball League. We are extremely
grateful and flattered by this honor. Thank you to
all the parents who serve as coaches, assistants,
scorekeepers, and fund-raisers who give so
unselfishly of their time in support of Mendon
sports programs. Mendon is such a special place
to raise our children because of the dedication
and caring of the parents, town officials, and
volunteers who provide and support our youth
activities.
Thank you again. We deeply appreciate this
honor.
The Grady family
JUST A THOUGHT
By Michelle Sanford
Over spring vacation
my husband and I took
our kids on first trip to the
Magic Kingdom and Universal Studios. We
had purposely waited a number of years
before taking this excursion for several
reasons. First of all, we wanted to make
certain our kids were old enough to clear
the height restrictions for the majority of
the rides. We were also hoping they would
be a little better behaved at 8 and 12 years
old. But really more than anything, we
wanted to make certain it would be a trip
they would remember.
Months prior to the trip, the two of them
had been viewing the Disney and Universal
Web sites incessantly to check out all the
rides and attractions to make certain they
didn’t miss a thing. There were a number
of roller coasters and other thrill rides they
could not wait to go on; me…not so much.
In my younger days, I used to love the
excitement of a roller coaster plummeting
downward and that out of control stomach
flip that went along with it. However, as
I’ve gotten older, that is a feeling I can live
without.
At the parks, as we would approach
each ride, I would decide whether or not
I would go on it based on a description
provided. “This is a roller coaster that
plummets 200 feet straight down, jerks and
twists, and may cause sudden dizziness.
People who are claustrophobic, who have
high blood pressure or are susceptible
to…” Not a chance. And while I did go
on a bunch of rides with the kids, I let my
husband handle the “Not a Chance” rides.
Still as our days at the theme parks
began to wind down, there was one roller
coaster that my kids were begging me to
go on with them. I said I’d think about it
and possibly go on it later. (Secretly I was
hoping it would break down or there would
be a two hour wait making us unable to go
on it.)
Eventually I gave in and I waited in line
for 45 minutes with my kids as my husband
sat on the sidelines this time. As we waited,
I saw the warning sign for this ride which
talked about sudden drops, jerking, etc.
I could see my daughter laughing at me
because I probably looked more nervous
than anyone in line, who included small
children and even (I kid you not) an elderly
woman in a wheel chair.
As the ride took off in the dark, I had a
pit in my stomach waiting for the first big
plummet, which happened right away and
I found myself screaming and laughing
at the same time and over the next few
minutes, I did the same; all to my son’s and
daughter’s amusement.
As we got off the ride, they both had
the biggest smiles on their faces and were
laughing and re-enacting my shrieks and
horrified faces from just moments ago.
And it was then that I realized this was
something that I would always remember...
Happy Mother’s Day to me.
Calling all Graduates!
Graduating From High School Or College This Spring? Our Mendon Upton Souvenir
Graduation Issue Is June 5. Want To Be Included?
Send a brief graduation announcement (75 words) as a Word Document AND a 250 DPI photo jpg attached
to an email to Jane Bigda, [email protected]. Include the graduate’s name, parents, hometown,
high school or college, college degree and any special academic honors. Deadline is May 15.
Submissions are not needed for graduates of Nipmuc Regional High School or Blackstone Valley Tech, since our
reporters are covering those graduations.
MAY 1, 2015
The Advertiser’s Club
Directory
These are the businesses that contract to advertise in The Upton and Mendon Town Crier at least
12 times a year. They receive a frequently discount,
feature article about their business (minimum 1/16
page ad) and listing in this directory.
Business Name.............................. Ad on Page
Advantage Siding............................................... 18
Artful Mix............................................................... 17
Blackstone Valley Limousine Service..........next
Boucher Energy Systems.................................. 20
Bright Insurance Agency.................................... 3
C.J. Cilley Construction.................................... 22
Cancun’s Mexican Restaurant.......................next
Century 21 Robyn Nasuti..............................next
Consigli & Ruggiero Funeral Home................. 4
Cornerstone of Milford....................................... 2
CPR Etc............................................................... 28
Crystal Industries.............................................. 15
Crystal Room..................................................... 29
Cyr Contracting..............................................next
D’Pearls Nails and Spa...................................... next
Deane Dance...................................................next
Diane’s Doghouse.............................................. next
Duraclean Services............................................ 22
Elizabeth Blake Orthodontic........................next
ERA Key Realty, Theresa Sannicandro..............next
ET Home Maintenance..................................next
Frank's Appliance................................................ 7
Friendly Discount Liquors............................next
Full Circle Tree Care......................................next
Gibson Natural Pet Resort.............................next
Gibson Septic Service....................................... next
Dr. Janet Goguen, DMD................................... 28
Golden Pond/Golden Goose.........................next
Goodman Eye Center....................................next
Heaven’s Gate Pet Services............................next
Heritage Siding & Window.............................. 20
Hopedale Country Club....................................... 15
Hopkinton Physical Therapy.........................next
Hopkinton Eye Associates................................ next
Iadarola Plumbing & Heating.......................... 22
Ideal Pizza........................................................next
Imperial Cars..................................................... 32
J.C. Parmenter.................................................... 22
J.L. Darling Septic Tank Plumbing Co................ 19
Jolicoeur Overhead Door................................. 22
Just-A-Wee-Day................................................... 3
LaRose Muscular Therapy................................ 30
Liquor Plus......................................................next
Little Coffee Bean...........................................next
Lynch Wine and Spirits..................................... next
Maple Farm Dairy..........................................next
Mazzone Electrician.......................................next
McCormick Properties......................................... 28
Medway Oil & Propane Company.................. 24
Mendon Barber Shop........................................ 27
Mendon Motors..............................................next
Mendon Self Storage......................................next
Metrowest Oral Surgical Associates................ 12
Milford Hardwood.........................................next
Milford National Bank and Trust.................... next
Milford Regional Medical Center................... 31
Mill House Liquors............................................... 31
Nathans’ Jewelers............................................... 27
New England Steak & Seafood........................ 29
Paul Henning, PhD............................................... 27
Paw Planet.......................................................... 16
Phipps Insurance Agency................................... 9
Reliable Pet Sitting............................................... 7
Restaurant 45..................................................next
Rita’s Home & Gift Store................................... 16
Riteway Power Equipment............................next
Rose Garden Restaurant & Lounge..............next
Safeside Chimney...........................................next
Salon Richard Anthony...................................... 2
Scannel Services/Hopkinton Roofing............. next
Second Nature Landscape................................ 21
Simoneau Electric.............................................. 22
Sky Hook Tree Care.......................................... 18
Stardust Jewelers.................................................... 16
Templeman Tree Service.................................. 19
Truck and Trailer World................................next
United Parish Nursery School........................... 9
Upton Foreign Motors...................................next
Upton House of Pizza....................................... 29
Upton Recreation Commission........................... 15
Upton Self Storage............................................. 18
Wagner Window Service...............................next
Wanokura Japanese Restaurant....................... 29
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LETTERS
Letters may be edited for length and clarity and will be published on a space available basis. Maximum 300 words. Must include signature, address & telephone number.
Opinions expressed are solely those of the writer. Town Crier Publications will not be responsible for inaccuracies. No Political Endorsements, please!
Preparing Our Children
for the Future
To the Editor
After returning from VEX
Worlds, an international robotics
competition for 850 teams with
over 15,000 students, I appreciate
more than ever the need to provide
our children with a high-quality
education. The students I met
stood above their peers, drawing
on the education they received
and the experience they gained to
compete on a global stage. They
came from nearly 30 countries
to exchange ideas, collaborate
and compete. No matter their
final placement, all left the event
knowing they could work with
students around the world,
prepared with hands-on experience
in STEM – science, technology,
engineering and mathematics.
School Superintendent Joseph
Maruszczak seeks to provide this
same experience for MendonUpton students. To achieve this
goal, he has thoughtfully reviewed
the district’s current funding
situation providing a detailed
budget. His comprehensive analysis
concludes our schools require
additional funding.
I think we all appreciate
preparing our children for
any challenge requires time,
commitment, and resources.
Our district leaders and school
committee have taken time to
research our needs and prepare a
fair and attainable budget. They
have committed themselves to
working with our respective town
leadership to communicate the
need and answer questions. The
final hurdle comes down to us. The
funding required to make these
initiatives successful depends on
our ability to act. Our respective
annual town meetings and ballots
are coming up. Now is the time
to vote “yes” to move our schools
forward.
Voting “yes” ensures our
children are given opportunities
to expand their knowledge and
provides the resources needed for
an educational experience to set
them on a path forward.
The students I met last week are
already on that path. Let’s ensure
that our children are on that same
path by voting “yes” on May 12 in
Mendon and on May 18 in Upton.
Vicki Grisanti
Mendon
Vote Yes on School
Override
To the Editor
We’re voting Yes on Question 1.
We’ve lived in Upton for almost 40
years, and we’ve had the pleasure
of seeing our two kids, plus all
of their friends, thrive on the
opportunities afforded them by
attending Mendon-Upton schools.
Our children are now adults, with
children of their own, and they’ve
grown into caring, loving and
nurturing parents. Although we
perhaps can’t attribute this to their
education alone, the experiences
they had during their school years
certainly shaped many of their
current values.
We realize additional taxes can
be burdensome and troubling to
parents with kids in the school
system now as well as for those
of us whose children have grown
and moved on. But this is the time
to support a school budget that
is essential to the success of our
students now and in their futures.
Please join us in voting YES on
Question 1!
Patricia and Bob Carnegie
Upton
A Budget Fable
To the Editor,
I’ve always dreamed of buying
a new car every 2 years but my
current income will not allow me
to do that. I have been getting a
raise every year but not enough to
cover my dreams. So I went to my
boss and asked for an additional
raise. I explained that the extra
money would be for a good cause.
The response was didn’t you ask
for an additional raise last year to
pay for repairs to your house? And
didn’t you ask for more money the
year before because your mother
needed to go into an elder care
facility? And didn’t you ask for
more money the year before that
because your car broke down? And
didn’t you say that you had family
members who would work with
you to develop a budget that would
stay within your income? I guess
they didn’t explain the concept of a
budget very well did they?
So when will you learn to live
within your budget instead of
repeatedly asking me for more
money?
Gee, what an unreasonable
response. I was only asking for
more money. When my dreams
exceed my income shouldn’t the
boss just give me more money?
What am I missing here? The boss
said that it is obvious that someone
needs to explain what it means to
live within your budget.
Dick Skinner
Mendon
Why I’m Voting NO on
ANY School Override
To the Editor,
I am a parent of two children
who attend Mendon-Upton
Schools. Over the past five years I
have watched the School District’s
budget balloon by over $6 million
while town side departments
like the Library, Senior Center,
Highway and others have
remained flat or increased slightly.
Our roads go unrepaired and
unmaintained, trash litters the
sides of our streets and we are
asked by the town to pick it up,
fire trucks go on calls without
needed supplies, park fields flood
making them unusable, town
buildings sit unfinished or falling
apart and services in return for
our tax dollars are minimal, but
the schools spend excessively.
They seek to give every
student their own iPad, hire 30
plus new staff members, give
themselves raises with close to 10
administrators making close to or
over $100,000 dollars, they install
smart boards in every classroom,
buy 3D printers, take staff trips
during the summer, hand out
freebies to staff and the public
and they expand programs like
Spanish Immersion and full day
kindergarten, that are nice to have,
while we get almost no return
beyond what we had prior to all of
this spending.
Where are the skyrocketing
MCAS scores, the large number
of students taking and acing AP
classes, the admissions to Ivy
League schools and the academic
scholarships? We have not seen
a ROI that would support this
type of spending. Spending
that includes $2.5 million in
technology alone since 2011 and
a 1st time superintendent who’s
paid $150,000 dollars per year plus
benefits!
We have great teachers and an
excellent school community that
consistently turns out excellent
students. We had this prior to this
spending and will continue to, if
we roll it back. It’s time to tell the
new Superintendent to slow down
by voting NO!
Mike Watson
Mendon
Why Does the
Override Matter?
To the Editor,
As most parents do, I want the
best for my kids. As an educator,
I know the challenges of making
this happen in our schools.
There is a call for educational
practices to change across the
country, to better prepare students
for college and careers in the 21st
century. Students must be able
to communicate and collaborate
effectively, think critically to
address problems and engineer
solutions, and use technology
effectively. The MURSD Strategic
Plan recognizes this essential
change and outlines a plan to
move our district forward, in
order to prepare Mendon-Upton
students for the future.
Technology has broken
down the physical barriers of
our classrooms. Students have
information at their fingertips
and can interact with peers and
professionals around the world.
Global perspective is essential to
addressing the problems of today
and preparing for the world of
tomorrow. If we do not support
the expansion of our classrooms,
our students will most certainly be
ill prepared to face the challenges
that lie ahead and will not be
competitive in a global society.
Our students need the
opportunity to explore, ask
questions, be creative and take
risks, in order to gain the skills
and confidence to succeed in the
21st century. Class size absolutely
impacts how we provide
these opportunities. Access to
technology to explore content,
acquire information, retrieve
data and communicate globally
is critical. Career exploration
and practical experience are
invaluable.
Mendon-Upton students
are the leaders of tomorrow.
Preparing our students to handle
the challenges that lie ahead is an
investment in the future of our
towns, our community, and our
world. This override will have an
immediate impact on our students
and our community. Let’s make
sure it’s a positive impact that
allows the district to continue
moving forward. Please make this
investment in our students and
our future, and vote Yes on the
override.
Kim Spangenberg
Upton
Support the School
Override
To the Editor
We are writing this letter as
an expression of support for
the Mendon-Upton Regional
School District’s override. We are
parents and grandparents. We
are Upton citizens, taxpayers and
homeowners for the past 36 years.
We are retired from education and
banking.
As parents, our children had
the benefit of many strong years
of education in our district. We
know firsthand the importance of a
quality education that helped them
achieve success in today’s world.
As grandparents, we realize
it is critical to ensure that our
young students today are learning
in a progressive educational
environment in order to meet the
new, ever-changing and complex
problems they will face in their
future.
As homeowners, we appreciate
that the quality of the town’s
educational system has a direct
and critical impact on our property
value.
As retirees and taxpayers we
understand that education costs
money and sacrifice. We also
understand the costs of the lack of
a quality education.
If a mediocre educational system
is provided, the net result will be
mediocrity. A quality, progressive
education in today’s world calls
for skill sets, knowledge and
understanding that meet different
needs. The building blocks of a
quality education that our children
receive beginning with their
primary years should drive them
to understand issues, make sound
decisions on that understanding
and use appropriate and current
tools and technology to choose
solutions to help them best set
policies in their future world.
A solid, quality, progressive
education costs money. With
cutbacks in funding from the
State and increased reliance on
technology, professional training
and support for all our students,
the burden of that expense falls
on the shoulders of the taxpayers
of Mendon and Upton. It is an
expense well worth meeting. We
ask that you please join us in this
effort with a positive vote at the
town meetings and at the ballot
box.
David and Joan Scribner
Upton
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INDEX
Advertisers Index..........................................5
BROWSING THE BACK ROADS.............16, 17
Classifieds...................................................28
Community Calendar.................................8-9
DINING GUIDE......................................... 29
Letters........................................................5-7
Mystery Photo............................................30
Opinion.........................................................6
SPRING SPRUCE-UP............................ 17-21
SUMMER FUN....................................14, 15
IN THIS ISSUE
Browsing the Back Roads
p 16, 17
MAY 1, 2015
LETTERS
Letters may be edited for length and clarity and will be published on a space available basis. Maximum 300 words. Must include signature, address & telephone number.
Opinions expressed are solely those of the writer. Town Crier Publications will not be responsible for inaccuracies. No Political Endorsements, please!
It’s About Moving Forward
To the Editor:
During the height of the recent recession
most Massachusetts school districts
experienced diminished resources with
cuts to staff and programs. However, few
experienced the severity of the cuts that the
Mendon-Upton Regional School District
did; between 2008 and 2011 the district lost
over 20 percent of its professional staff.
The district has recovered with a new
energy and vision. This vision is detailed
in a comprehensive strategic plan that was
created in 2012-13 by a team of parents,
community members, teachers, and
students. The vision calls for all students to
have a competitive advantage so they may be
successful in post-secondary education and
beyond. Our kids deserve no less.
Thus, the FY14 and FY 15 budgets crafted
and approved by the Regional School
Committee have focused on the strategic
initiatives supporting our vision. Universal,
tuition-free, full-day kindergarten and
the inclusion model of special education
have been implemented to support our
youngest learners. The district has invested
in emergent technologies so our students at
every level – elementary, middle, and high
school – can process complex new content
and, create, communicate, and collaborate.
The proposed FY16 MURSD Budget aims
to continue our forward momentum. This
thoughtful budget aims to add key strategic
investments, such as reading teachers,
elementary inclusion teachers, middle school
language teachers and a middle school
library media specialist. Additionally, it
also will enable every Nipmuc junior and
senior to have meaningful career exploration
opportunities – job shadowing and
internships.
The FY16 Budget will bring our district to
a new level – one that effectively supports all
children. Let us not regress to where we were
five years ago; we need to move forward with
our vision. Your approval of the Proposition
2 ½ override question on May 12 in Mendon
and May 18 in Upton is critical to the
district’s immediate and long-term future.
Dr. Joseph P. Maruszczak
Mendon-Upton Regional School District
Superintendent of Schools
Taxed to the Max
To the Editor,
On May 18 Upton residents will be asked to vote on an override to
fund an enormously expensive new school budget. If this override passes
our property taxes will increase dramatically. A $1 million override will
result in a $400 increase in property taxes for an average home whose
valuation is about $400,000 and a $1.5 million override will result in a
$600 increase in taxes. I would like to suggest reasons for a no vote.
This costly, massive overhaul of the MURSD infrastructure is made
necessary by the below average performance of their graduates as well
as the fact that 19 percent of eligible students opt out and choose to go
elsewhere. Test scores show only 44.6 percent of the graduates are college
ready. There are 401 school districts in Massachusetts and MURSD
is unranked. For comparison Westborough is ranked 44, Ashland 19,
Algonquin 23, and Shrewsbury 38.
This proposed new budget assumes that the problem of poor student
performance can be corrected by a master plan which pumps money
into an already flawed system rather than focusing on the causes of
student apathy and lack of motivation toward academic excellence.
The flagship school of MURSD is Nipmuc Regional located in Upton
and therein lays the problem. Upton and therefore Nipmuc are in
the dark ages when it comes to state-of-the-art, high-speed Internet
access. This is required for student participation in many free or very
inexpensive learning programs geared to teenagers and their love
of computer based interactive gaming. Also, unavailable to Nipmuc
students is a very low cost foreign language course, used by the military,
with guaranteed fluency after six weeks. Kahn Academy is one such free
program. It requires much higher download speeds than available in
Upton.
Until Upton enters the world of high-speed Internet access, a yes vote
will only increase taxes and won’t change Nipmuc student performance.
I urge a NO vote.
Donald A. Taylor, MD
Upton
Mendon Needs to Pass the Override
To the Editor,
Over the next couple of weeks voters in Mendon and Upton
have a very important decision on a proposition 2 ½ override
for their community. We are in the middle of a state mandated
shift in responsibility reducing state funding from 60 to 35
percent. Two town accounts funding the schools are mandated,
the third, operational additional, is funding above the mandated
minimum. Mendon’s FY16 mandated increase in school funding
is $545,000, but Mendon can only afford $204,000. Mendon
covers this increase by using the operational additional account,
which used to have $1.1 million in it. Within two years there will
be zero in that account as funds are transferred to the mandated
school accounts. Once operational additional is at zero the only
way for the town to cover the mandated increase is by reducing
some other town service. We will then be funding the school
district at the lowest amount allowed by the state without being
penalized.
I think we all agree we want the best school and town services
we can provide. A few years ago the school district and the towns
were in this very place. Class sizes were close to 30, electives
were cut, and fees were increased. Public safety was understaffed,
library hours were reduced, road maintenance was limited, and
the town beach only opened because of a private donation.
What is not disputable is there will be an override required
in the next couple of years. The question is whether we want to
destroy the quality of our community, and then pass an override,
or save it by passing one now. To me the choice is clear. Pass this
override now and invest in our future. We have spent the last
four years rebuilding after the last round of cuts, why do we want
to do it again?
Jay Byer
MURSD Business Assistant
Mendon
Vote No in Upton to the Override
To the Editor,
I attended Upton Candidates Night on Thursday and agree with
Selectman Candidate Frank Aniello regarding the $1.4 million
override. It is the biggest issue we face. Transparency to the citizens
is not evident.
A $1.4 million increase will increase the tax rate. The average
Upton homeowner will see a tax increase of over $560 per year,
every year forever. How can we justify this override when there are
over 200 fewer students? In 2010 there were 1400 students and in
2014 there are 1200 students, a decrease of 16 percent.
The School Budget in 2010 was $7.7 million; the current School
Budget in 2015 is $9.7 million. For 2016 the school is asking for
$11.3 million, an increase of 20 percent. They also want to hire
seven additional teachers while there has been a steady decline in
students yearly.
Two hundred students at $11,000 per student is over $2 million
in cost savings. Where are those cost savings? How is this justified?
If this override does not pass, there is a backup proposal for
an increase of the budget of over $900,000. Where will we find
$900,000?
The proposal is to reduce the Town budget by 7.5 percent. How
can we ask the Fire, Police and other departments to reduce their
budget by 7.5 percent and not ask the School to do the same? Also
this $900,000 is for level service, not level funded.
This backup plan is flawed as well. Remember $1.4 Million, over
$560 a year, every year, forever. I cannot justify this.
There are many great solutions that have already been offered by
citizens. Let’s listen to them, come up with a fiscally sound plan,
and find a better way to improve our schools.
Jeanne Oliver
Upton
Don’t Forget To Vote!
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Calendar
A list of calendar events of community groups, fundraising events of local charities and free
events of local businesses. Maximum150 words. Published the 1st & 3rd Friday of every
month. Deadline 10 days prior to publication date. Email to [email protected]
5th Annual Run for Their Future 5K
and Kids’ Fun Runs
Mendon Upton Music Boosters
Mattress Sale Fundraiser
MENDON-UPTON-The Mendon Upton Music
Boosters will be sponsoring a Mattress Sale
Fundraiser on Saturday, May 9 in the Miscoe
Hill School gym from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
This is the second year for them to bring
name brand mattresses at up to 50 percent off to
Mendon and Upton. Music students in 7th and
8th grade at Miscoe Hill and all Music Students
at Nipmuc will be able to earn money for
student accounts by recommending customers
to the sale.
Dining for Sight
MENDON-Come out and enjoy your favorite
meals and benefit Lions Eye Research. Both
the Willowbrook and Lowell’s Restaurant in
Mendon have teamed up with the Mendon
Lions to donate 15 percent of your meal receipt
to the Massachusetts Eye Research Fund. This
fund sponsors cutting edge research on diseases
of the eye like baby blindness and macular
degeneration. Events will occur on Wednesday,
May 6 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Lowell’s Restaurant 75
Cape Road, Rt 140, and on May 20 from 5 to 9
p.m. at the Willowbrook Restaurant, 16 Hastings
St. Lions members will be on hand with the
donation request forms. Call Colleen Oncay at
508-478-3425 for more information.
Arts in Bloom Exhibit
The Hopkinton Center for the Arts (HCA)
announces its 2015 Arts in Bloom exhibit will
run May 8–June 5. This juried exhibition will
showcase prize-winning artwork, complemented
by one-of-a-kind floral arrangements provided
by the Hopkinton Garden Club. Artist, teacher,
poet, and author John Murray is the juror for
this exhibit. Six cash prizes will be announced
at a public reception on May 8, 2015 at
6:30 p.m. The HCA, 98 Hayden Rowe St., is
open weekdays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more
information on this event, please visit www.
hopartscenter.org/exhibits or call 508-435-9222.
UPTON-The Mendon-Upton Regional Teachers
Association presents the 5th Annual Run For
Their Future 5K and the Kids’ Fun Runs on
Saturday, May 2 at Nipmuc Regional High
School. Registration begins at 9 a.m. followed
by the race start at 10 a.m. Pre-registration,
available on www.mursd.org or by emailing
[email protected] - Race Entry Form 2015,
is $20 while day of the race registration is $25.
The fairly flat and fast 3.1 mile course starts and
ends at Nipmuc. There will be a water station,
refreshments, t-shirts and age group awards.
The Kids’ Fun Runs are held at the Nipmuc
soccer field and begin at 8:30 a.m. with
registration followed at 9 a.m. by the races with
participants grouped by age.
If the race needs to be cancelled/postponed it
will be posted on Facebook.
Plant Sale, Bake Sale
HOPKINTON-Community Covenant Church,
2 West Elm St., Hopkinton will hold a Plant Sale,
Bake Sale on Saturday, May 9, from 8 a.m. to
12 noon. Inexpensively priced perennials and
cottage garden specialty plants will be available
along with Swedish baked goods. Call 508435-3723 or visit ComCovHop.org for more
information. Spring Fling Grand Tasting
WHITINSVILLE-The Mill House Wine and
Spirits, 670 Linwood Ave., Whitinsville will hold
a Spring Fling Grand Tasting on Saturday, May
2, from 3:30-6 p.m. featuring a variety of wines,
cocktails and seasonal brews.
This event is free and open to the over 21
public. Special discount pricing will be available
during the event. Find us on FB/MillHouseWine
or MillHouseWineandSpirits.com. Call 508-2660630 if you have questions
Gary McKinstry, Psychic
UPTON-Gary McKinstry, well-known Medium,
Psychic and Radio Personality, once again
brings his unique talent to Upton’s Memorial
School, 69 Main St. on Friday, May 1 at 7
p.m. Sponsored by the Upton Bloomer Girls, a
charitable organization, the evening will feature
McKinstry’s sensitively and often humorously
channeling spiritual contact with passed loved
ones. Four lucky ticket holders will have private
10-15 minutes sessions. Everyone will have an
opportunity to win a gift basket. Reserve a seat
for $20 by calling Ida, 508-529-2822, or purchase
at the door for $25.
Milford Regional Medical Center
Auxiliary Meeting
MILFORD-The Milford Regional Medical
Center Auxiliary will meet May 12 from 9:30
to 11 a.m. in the MRMC Conference Room
A, 14 Prospect Street, Milford. The public is
welcome and encouraged to consider joining
this successful organization.
The Auxiliary conducts many fundraisers
throughout the year which provide support to
MRMC departments and the Auxiliary has also
contributed to the expansion of the Medical
Center, which is well underway. If you would
like more information about the Auxiliary,
please call 508-422-2099.
Massachusetts Sonsof Italy
BOSTON-The Honorable Robert B. Calagione
of the Westboro and Milford District Courts will
be among those honored by the Grand Lodge of
Massachusetts, at the Massachusetts Education
and Law Awards, on Sunday, May 3. The Grand
Lodge is part of the national Order Sons of Italy
in America and the event is honoring several
leaders in the Italian-American community,
as well as giving out $30,000 in scholarships to
graduating high school seniors.
The three outstanding public servants being
honored are: Calagione, who will receive the
Justice Award; Woburn Police Chief Robert J.
Ferullo Jr. the Law Award; and The Honorable
Joseph A. Curtatone, Mayor of Somerville, the
Public Service Award. The Toastmaster for the
event is Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito,
who is a member of the Worcester Lodge # 168
received the Public Service Award in 2011.
Tickets for the Massachusetts Education
and Law Awards are available by contacting
the Grand Lodge office at 617-489-5234, or by
visiting www.osiama.org.
VFW Flea Market & Craft Sale
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UPTON-The George L. Wood VFW Post
5594 will hold a flea market and crafts
sale on the post grounds, Rt. 140, Upton,
on Saturday, May 9 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Dealer spaces are $10 each. Reservations are
required only for dealers needing to reserve
tables, which costs an additional $5 per
table. To reserve tables, call the fundraiser
chairman Dave Kennedy, 508-529-3314.
Flea Market and Crafts: Several tables will
feature homemade and handmade crafts
for Mother’s Day, Spring, Father’s Day and
Commencement gift giving. Many tables
will offer new and used items for sale at low
prices. The VFW will have several tables at
the sale. Many of these tables feature books
and magazines.
Coffee, donuts and soda will be on sale
from 8 a.m. Hot dogs will be available from 10
a.m. until 1 p.m. Proceeds of the flea market
and crafts sale will be used for the post’s
improvements.
There is no admission charge.
A Musical History of Ragtime
MILFORD-Through music, pianist Deborrah
Wyndham shares the history of our nation’s first
“pop” music: ragtime during A Musical History
of Ragtime on Saturday, May 16 at 1:30 p.m. at
the Milford Town Library, 80 Spruce St. Starting
with the beginnings of jazz, ragtime has gone
on to influence many other musicians and styles
of music. Ragtime is an important part of our
America musical heritage.
A pianist/composer, Wyndham, who has
given over 3,000 past performances, plays a
wide variety of music from ragtime and other
early jazz styles to original contemporary music.
With appearances on FOX, NBC and ABC,
listeners have described her playing as sounding
“like four hands.”
Sponsored by the Friends of the Milford Town
Library, this event is free and open to the public.
Mother’s Day Raffle
MILFORD-The Milford Regional Medical
Center Auxiliary Mothers’ Day Raffle will be
held in May. Tickets will be sold in the Atrium
Café and Gift Shop from11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on
May 4-8, from 5 to 7 p.m. on May 7 with the
drawing held on May 8 at 1:30 p.m. The raffle
includes a $100 gift card to Brian Richard’s
Salon in Franklin, a beautiful plant from Frances
Flowers and a box of chocolates. Baskets, swags
and vases will also be available.
MRMC Fundraiser events provide support
to Medical Center departments. Currently, the
Auxiliary is also contributing to the expansion
of the Medical Center. The public is welcome
and men and women are encouraged to consider
joining this successful organization. For more
information, call 508-422-2099.
Stomp Your Foot
UXBRIDGE-The Blackstone Valley Community
Chorus will present their spring concert
Stomp Your Foot on Sunday May 3 at 3 p.m.
in the Uxbridge High School auditorium
300 Quaker Highway, Uxbridge. The concert
features a variety of music written by American
composers, including Aaron Copland, Stephen
Sondheim, Billy Joel and Paul Simon. There
will also be a raffle with donations from local
businesses, artisans, and chorus members. Please
join us for an afternoon of music that is sure to
please the whole family!
The Blackstone Valley Community Chorus
is comprised of sixty singers from towns
throughout Central Massachusetts. Members
are of various ages and musical backgrounds,
brought together by a shared love of music.
Under the direction of Diane Pollard of
Uxbridge for more than a decade, the BVCC has
appeared at community events throughout the
Valley. For more information about the chorus,
including how to join, visit www.bvcchorus.org.
United Parish Shoe Collection Drive
UPTON- The United Parish of Upton is
conducting a shoe collection drive during May
to raise funds for families that are homeless
in the greater Worcester area while benefiting
microenterprise ventures in developing nations
and keeping old shoes out of local landfills.
Individuals can help by donating gently worn,
used shoes to be placed in donation boxes at the
United Parish, Upton Town Library, and Miscoe
Hill School.
Easy Walks in Massachusetts
MILFORD-Come join author Marjorie Turner
Hollman as she shares pictures from on the trail
during her talk, Easy Walks in Massachusetts,
on Thursday, May 7 at 7 p.m. at the Milford
Town Library, 80 Spruce St. Summer is here and
everyone is ready to get outside, but where to
go. Easy Walks in Massachusetts: Bellingham,
Blackstone, Franklin, Hopedale, Medway, Milford,
Millis, Uxbridge, Wrentham and Woonsocket,
RI offers 30 answers to that question in 10 area
towns!
Sponsored by the Friends of the Milford Town
Library, this event is free and open to the public.
Milford Community Supper Program
Celebration
MILFORD-The Milford Community Supper
program will hold their 20th Anniversary
Recognition Dinner/Celebration on Friday, May
8 at 6 p.m. at the First Unitarian Universalist
Church of Milford, Pine St. A pasta and salad
dinner will be offered and volunteers, who
have given their time once a month to provide
a nutritious dinner to those in need, will be
recognized.
Monies raised by the May 8 dinner will help
offset renovations and equipment needed to
enhance the kitchen and open more days to
provide food for those in need. Tickets are $10
each. For more information or tickets contact
Al Spittler at 774-573-4715 or alfred.spittler@
gmail.com.
Free Vacation Bible School
NORTH SMITHFIELD-Thanks to the
fundraising efforts by way of their annual Hymn
Sing, the Slatersville Congregational Church
United Church of Christ in North Smithfield has
always been able to provide free Vacation Bible
School to all children. This year’s Vacation Bible
School will run July 6 through July 10. For more
information, contact the church at 401-769-2773
or check out their Facebook page.
MAY 1, 2015
Calendar
Play It Again Miscoe
Blackstone Valley Chamber of
Commerce Events
MENDON-The Miscoe PTO is happy to
announce … Play It Again Miscoe, a sale of
used sporting goods, outdoor items and musical
instruments on Sunday, May 3 from 9 .m. to 1
p.m. on the school lawn. The PTO is collecting
any and all Spring/Summer sporting equipment,
outdoor games, pool toys, as well as musical
instruments in playable condition the week
of April 27. Drop off in the box located in the
school lobby during school hours or from 5 to
7 p.m. on Thursday, April 30 and Friday, May
1. Items will be happily accepted the morning
of the event from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. as well. No
trampolines, motorized or gas powered items
will be accepted. Proceeds from the event will
help bring Cultural Arts programs to Miscoe in
2015/2016.
AREA-The Blackstone Valley Chamber of
Commerce will be holding the following events.
For more information or to register call 508234-9090, ext. 100, visit BlackstoneValley.org or
email [email protected].
Business After Hours with the Milford Area
Regional Chamber will be held at the Mendon
Twin Drive-In, 35 Milford St., Mendon on May
20 at 5:30 p.m. Enjoy great food, the new beer
garden, meeting new affiliate members, games,
raffles and more! Bloomer Girls Yard Sale
UPTON-HUGE Yard Sale at 80 Prospect Street
on May 9 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. to benefit Upton
Bloomer Girls, a local charitable organization.
Our winter was long and hard and the Bloomer
Girls coffers are nearing empty. Holiday
dinners, gift cards, food & oil donations, gifts
for overseas military and individual support
in all forms have depleted finances. The yard
sale will offer collectables, antiques, household
items, garden equipment and “good stuff ” for
sale. RAIN OR SHINE & ALL proceeds go to
the Bloomer Girls. If you wish to donate, call
Donna at 508-272-8017 or Ida at 508-529-2822.
Please, no browsers before 8:30 AM. A very
worthy cause, a day of fun, and perhaps…a
treasure to cherish.
Greater Milford Relay for Life
MILFORD-As the Greater Milford Relay for Life
gears up for its annual event, the organization is
holding a number of meetings and fundraisers.
All are invited to attend.
The American Cancer Society Relay For
Life is the world’s largest and most impactful
fundraising event to end cancer. The Greater
Milford Relay will begin at 2 p.m. on May 16 at
the Milford High School Track and will include
a Kids Fair from 3 to 9 p.m.
To sign up for relay or get more info
visit RelayforLife.org/milfordma or contact
Bernadette at [email protected] or
774-573-5007.
Uniform Sale
MILFORD-Alexander’s Uniforms will be selling
uniforms and shoes on May 8 from 7 a.m. to 4
p.m. in the Milford Regional Medical Center
conference Room A and B. This is a popular
fund-raising event for which a portion of the
sales goes to the Auxiliary. The MRMC Auxiliary conducts many fundraisers throughout the
year, which provide support to Medical Center
departments. The Auxiliary meets on the second
Tuesday monthly at 9:30 a.m., except for July
and August. The public is welcome. For more
information, call 508-422-2099.
Thanks To Yanks Comedy Show
Fundraiser
MILFORD-Thanks To Yanks is hosting a comedy
show on Saturday May 16 at the Italian American
Veteran’s Club, 4 Hayward Field, Milford at 7 p.m.
Featured comedians are Frank Foley and Adam
Webster. There will be a cash bar and door prizes.
Bring your own appetizers, snacks, and munchies.
Tickets are $20 each and must be purchased ahead of
time by emailing [email protected] or by calling
Donnalee Shain at 508-523-6682.
Thanks To Yanks is a Milford based 501c3 dedicated
to assisting our current military personnel, veterans,
and their families. Please visit Thanks to Yanks on
Facebook or at www.thankstoyanks.org.
Hearing Loss Presentation
MILFORD-The Greenleaf Garden Club will
hold its annual plant sale on Saturday, May 16th,
2015 at Kiwanis Park, Louisa Lake Parking lot,
Dilla St., Milford, from 8 a.m. to Noon. The sale
will feature a wide variety of perennials from
members’ gardens as well as annuals, vegetables
and herbs. The garden gallery will offer garden
related items. Coffee and refreshments will be
available. Greenleaf Garden Club members will
be there to answer your gardening questions.
Call Margaret Thompson, Chairperson, 508473-9548 for more information. The Greenleaf
Garden Club is a member of the National
Garden Clubs, Inc. and the Garden Club
Federation of MA, Inc.
MACC Events
AREA- The Milford Area Chamber of
Commerce (MACC) will be holding the
following events. To reserve your place call 508473-6700 or email chamber@milfordchamber.
org. For more information about the chamber
visit www.milfordchamber.org.
Boot Camp Series Business Insurance Basics
by Matt Kearas of Keefe Insurance and Steve
Ellis of Bright Insurance on Wednesday, May
6 at 8 a.m. at the Chamber Office, 258 Main St.,
Milford.
Business After Hours-Cinco de Mayo on
Wednesday, May 6, at the Alamo Restaurant, 55
Medway Rd (Rt. 109), Milford at 5 p.m.
Food & Wine Pairing on Thursday, May 7
at 6:30 p.m. at the Crystal Room, 49 Cedar St.,
Milford.
27th Annual Honors Scholars Night on
Tuesday, May 19 at 7 p.m. at the Lake Pearl
Lucianos, 299 Creek St., Wrentham.
Boot Camp Series-Marketing 10 with Michael
Carroll of Dean Bank and Gregg Chalk of Dean
College on Wednesday, May 20 at 8 a.m. in the
Chamber Office, 258 Main St., Milford.
Thimble Pleasures Quilt Guild
NORTHBOROUGH-The Hearing Loss
Association of America, Central Massachusetts
Chapter, is sponsoring a free presentation
titled Unheard Voices by Gael Hannon (DVD
presentation for Saturday, May 9 from 2 to 4
p.m. at the Northborough Public Library located
at 34 Main St. You must access the building from
Patty Lane.
Hannon is nationally known Hearing Health
consultant who also has a hearing loss. She is
an award winning actor and public speaker on
hearing loss. This DVD, Unheard Voices is an
eye opening, incisive, candid, compassionate and
humorous portrayal of people coping with the
ongoing challenges of living with hearing loss.
This is an excellent performance with a unique
and entertaining view of hearing loss.
There will be a discussion about the characters
and the challenges Hannon has presented.
Refreshments will be provided. There will be
CART and the DVD is captioned. For more
information, contact Margaret Myatt, Steering
Committee Hearing Loss Association of
America - Central MA at 508-498-3724
MENDON-Renowned quilt artist, Pat Delaney,
will lecture at the next meeting of Thimble
Pleasures Quilt Guild, on Thursday, May 21 at
7 p.m. at Goss Hall Unitarian Church 13 Maple
St., Mendon. She will lecture on her designs,
and will have an extensive trunk show. Guests
are welcome for $5.
Save the date, Cathy Racine, owner of
Charlton Sewing Center will hold her Auction
at Thimble Pleasures’ June 18 meeting. She
generously donates items from her shop to be
auctioned. All proceeds from the auction will
go to Ride To End Alzheimer’s, to be held in
Devens.
Hopedale Book, Bake& Plant Sale
HOPEDALE-It is time for the Friends of the
Hopedale Library sale on Saturday, May 16
from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Stock up at the book sale
for summer reading. Cookies, candies, cakes and
other delicious goodies will also be available,
plants too. Come join the fun and buy a raffle
ticket or two. Books will be $10 per bag.
Donations of goodies and labeled plants are
welcome. Please drop them off at the library
on Friday from 1 to 5 p.m. or by 9:30 a.m. on
Saturday morning. VFW Festival Carnival
UPTON-The George L. Wood Post #5594,
VFW, will host a Festival Carnival, May 15 –
May 17 from 6 to 10 p.m. on Thursday and
Friday, noon to 10 p.m. on Saturday and noon
tot 5 p.m. on Sunday, on the post grounds on
Rt. 140, Upton. A special “Wrist Band PASS
Day” is Sunday, May 17, $20 for unlimited
rides. For more information call David
Kennedy at 508-529-3314 or Joe McMahon at
508-529-4205.
United Parish
Christian Nursery School
The only accredited preschool in Mendon-Upton
Now Enrolling
Call for Appointment or Tour
508-529-6382
We offer extended day classes
for all 2, 3, and 4-day programs
• Warm and loving atmosphere
• Open to all children 2.9 to 6 years old
• Potty trained not required
• Dept. of Early Ed. & Care qualified staff
since 1983
One Church Street, Upton
Sandra Leacu, Director
Personal Ser vice and Community
Supp
dition of
a
r
T
or t
A
Since 1950
Spring Fling Grand Tasting
WHITINSVILLE-The Mill House Wine and
Spirits, 670 Linwood Ave., Whitinsville will hold
a Spring Fling Grand Tasting on Saturday, May
2, from 3:30-6 p.m. featuring a variety of wines,
cocktails and seasonal brews.
This event is free and open to the over 21
public. Special discount pricing will be available
during the event. Find us on FB/MillHouseWine
or MillHouseWineandSpirits.com. Call 508-2660630 if you have questions
127 Fowler Rd. Upton - $629,900
Simply beautiful custom built Salt Box that is
nestled away on almost 3 acres of land
surrounded by state forest and riding trails.
Fantastic horse barn with an attached paddock.
12 Fieldstone, Upton - $279,000
Fantastic end unit condo located in Fieldstone.
This unit has the best placement in the entire
complex offering privacy and beautiful views of
stone walls and plantings. Lots of updates, hard
wood floors, ready to move right in.
Call TINA COTE
508-922-1427
[email protected]
MAY 1, 2015
Greenleaf Garden Club of Milford
Annual Plant Sale
80 Main Street, Hopkinton MA 01748
HOME • CONDO • RENTER • AUTO • BUSINESS
“There is hardly anything in the world that some
company cannot make a little worse and sell a
little cheaper and the people who consider price
only are this company’s lawful prey.”
- John Ruskin
Low, competitive rates are available.
HERE, there, and everywhere!
What you really expect is proper protection
from someone you trust when you need it most!
THAT’S OUR BOTTOM LINE!
CALL 508-435-6388
www.phippsinsurance.com
OPEN M-F 8:30am-5pm
We are your reliable insurance neighbors!
9
Upton News
Upton Meetings
Upton Town government meeting dates,
times, and locations for all boards, committees, and commissions may be found at
www.uptonma.gov
Upton Senior Center
The Upton Center is open Monday through
Friday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Staff is available by
phone from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Activities are
subject to change. Please call 508-529-4558
with any questions.
Friday, May 1
Shopping Trip, Stop & Shop, Grafton, 11 a.m.
May Day Social, 1 p.m.
Monday, May 4
COA Board Meeting, 9 a.m.
Senator Moore Visit, 9 to 10 a.m.
Mother’s Day Celebration & Musical Journey,
1 p.m.
Tuesday, May 5
Cinco de Mayo Celebration, 1 p.m.
Wednesday, May 6
SHINE Visits, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Jan’s Breakfast, 9 a.m.
Healthy Hearing Talk, 10 a.m.
Shopping Trip, Shaw’s, Milford, 11 a.m.
Friday, May 8
Shopping Trip, The Shoppes at Blackstone
Valley, Millbury, 9 a.m.
Sunday, May 10
Happy Mother’s Day
Tuesday, May 12
Lunch Trip to Willowbrook, Mendon, 11:30 a.m.
Wednesday, May 13
Shopping Trip, Salvation Army, Shaw’s, CVS,
Job Lots Loop
Friday, May 15
Shopping Trip, Walmart, Northbridge, 9 a.m.
Office of State Rep. David Muradian,12 to 1
p.m.
Birthday Bash, Mickey Mouse Theme, 1 p.m.
Monday
Tai Chi, 10 a.m.
Movie Day, 12:45 p.m. (No movie May 4)
Tuesday
Zumba, 9:30 a.m.
Card Players Group, 10 a.m.
Wii Bowling, 12:30 p.m.
Wednesday
Library Table, 11 a.m.
Canasta, 12:30 p.m.
Walking Club, 1 p.m.
Computer Classes, 2:30 p.m.
Thursday
Knit and Crochet, 10 a.m.
Bingo, 1 p.m.
Friday
Chair Exercise, 9:30 a.m.
Saying Cheese and
Enjoying the Creature
Teacher
On Friday April 24 the Upton Center
and Council on Aging hosted an
intergenerational program for its members,
their families and grandchildren and invited
Cub Scouts from Pack 132. The Say Cheese
and Enjoy the Creature Teacher event
featured a delicious grilled cheese sandwich
lunch, a chance for seniors to visit with
the youngsters and some interesting facts
about different animals from the Creature
Teacher. Pictured here are Mason Consigli,
age 12, holding a boa constrictor along side
Creature Teacher, Rick Roth who explained
how the boas have a special jaw that allow
them to consume their food. Shelley Ryan
photo
10
Upton Hazardous Waste Day
The Upton Board of Health will be sponsoring a hazardous waste day Saturday, May
2 at the Department of Public Works Garage, 100 Pleasant St. from 8 a.m. to 12 Noon.
Upton residents may bring up to 10 pounds or 10 gallons of hazardous materials such
as oil, pesticides, cleaning products, aerosols, etc. at no charge. Tires, TV’s, furniture,
white goods, and electronics among other goods will be accepted for a small fee and
Styrofoam and sharps in a puncture proof container will be collected at no charge.
This year to celebrate Arbor Day, the DPW will be also be handing out spruce and
dogwood seedlings to residents while supplies last. For more information, see the flyer
in this issue of the Upton Mendon Town Crier or contact the Board of Health at 508529-6813.
ELECTION DAY
Monday, May 4
Polls open 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Nipmuc Regional High School
Pleaseant Street, Upton
Candidate’s Night Video
Watch it on Uptonma.gov
Click Videos
Upton Celebrates Opening Day
5th grader, Sam McElligott pitches a
fastball at a game during the opening day
celebrations in Upton on April 26 at the
VFW fields. Shelley Ryan photo
Members of the Miscoe Hill Middle School
Band added a musical component to the
festivities. Shelley Ryan photo
Veterans and selectmen lead the Loyalty Day
Parade down Main St. Shelley Ryan photo
For more photos of the start of the 2015 Upton Baseball/Softball season by Shelley Ryan
visit TownCrier.us and click on photo galleries
Nuisance and Canine Control Bylaws and
The Very Important
Domestic Violence Leave Policy on Upton Town Humble Heroes of the
Meeting Warrant
Environment
By Michelle Sanford
Among the articles on
Upton’s Town Meeting
warrant will be several
bylaws and policies for
residents to decide on.
Upton’s Annual Town
Meeting is scheduled for
May 4 and will begin at 7
p.m. at Nipmuc Regional
High School.
Articles 10, 11, 13,
and 14 are bylaws and
policies which involve a
variety of issues. Article
10 introduces a Nuisance
Bylaw that if adopted
by residents is meant to
protect property values and
neighborhood integrity.
It states, “This bylaw will
help secure the welfare of
the Town’s residents and
neighborhoods by requiring
all property owners and
occupants to properly
maintain their respective
properties.”
According to the
Nuisance Bylaw all property
in town, whether occupied
or not, must be maintained
in good repair and in a safe
and sanitary condition so
it does not contribute to
the creation of a hazardous
or blighted area that
would adversely affect the
public health and safety or
property value of adjacent
or surrounding properties.
Some examples of those
properties affected could
include burned structures
not habitable, dilapidated
real or personal property,
dangerous or unsafe
structures or personal
property, or overgrown
vegetation which may
harbor rats or vermin and
conceal pools of stagnant
water or other nuisances,
among others. The article
also discusses penalties if
the bylaw is violated.
Another bylaw, Article
11, is the Canine Control
Bylaw, which is meant to
control dogs in an effort to
prevent injury to property,
persons, and animals. The
bylaw discusses public
places in the community
where dogs are not
permitted at all, such as
town cemeteries. However,
dogs do have access to the
schools and beaches but
only during certain hours
and times of the year. The
bylaw goes on to discuss
dogs roaming at large,
nuisance and dangerous
dogs, licensing, licensing
of dangerous dogs and
penalties.
Article 13, if passed,
will establish a Domestic
Violence Leave Policy for
town employees and falls
under the Massachusetts
Domestic Violence Leave
Act. The policy allows for
individuals who are victims
of domestic violence,
stalking, sexual assault, or
kidnapping to take up to
15 days of unpaid leave in
any 12 month period. Those
employees taking leave
may be required to provide
documentation evidencing
the abusive behavior.
And Article 14 concerns
a voluntary waiver of health
insurance which allows
employees to opt out of
the town’s health insurance
program. In return for
waiving health insurance
coverage, the town will
agree to pay an eligible
employee either $1,500
for waiving individual
plan coverage or $3,000
for waiving family plan
coverage. Town employees
must meet several
requirements to be eligible
for the opt-out program.
Another article on the
warrant, Article 12, would
allow the assessors to
exempt from taxation any
property owned by veteran’s
organizations, such as the
VFW Post.
The complete text of
Articles 10, 11, 13, and 14
is posted on the town’s Web
site at www.uptonma.gov.
Humble Heroes, a program about
earthworms and what they do for the
environment was presented at the Upton
Town Library during April vacation, just in
time to celebrate Earth Day. The program
was presented by Hands On Nature
instructor, Heather Simpson to about 40
excited children at the Memorial School
Media Center on April 24. The youngsters
learned about the very vital role this humble
creature plays in nature. Shelley Ryan photo
Muradian Office Hours
State Rep. David Muradian (R. Grafton)
will be hosting office hours in Upton at the
Upton Center on May 15 from noon to 1
p.m. As always, any constituent who wishes
to speak to Muradian or his staff, but is unable to attend the office hours may make an
appointment for a more convenient time by
calling 617-722-2425 or e-mailing him at
[email protected].
MAY 1, 2015
Upton News
Upton Schedules Special Town Meeting Prior to Annual Meeting
By Michelle Sanford
In an effort to take care of
several year-end budget transfers,
during an April 21 meeting,
the Upton Board of Selectmen
executed a warrant for a Special
Town Meeting that will occur
just prior to the Annual Town
Meeting. As a result, a Special
Town Meeting is scheduled to
begin at 6:30 p.m. on May 7 and
the Annual Town Meeting will
follow at 7 p.m.; both meetings
will take place at Nipmuc
Regional High School.
Selectman Robert Fleming
explained the need for the Special
Town Meeting. “We need to have
the money appropriated this fiscal
year,” he said. “If we don’t act on it,
we won’t have the money available
to us…Basically it’s transfers and
moving money to complete the
year.” There are only three articles
on the warrant for Special Town
Meeting which is estimated to
take approximately 15 minutes.
Article 1 is requesting residents
to amend the vote taken under
Article 3 (the budget) at last
year’s Annual Town Meeting
in order to make supplemental
appropriations for the remainder
of this fiscal year. Article 1 is
looking to transfer funding
totaling $220,000 to the Snow
Removal Account for $175,000,
Fire Department Wages for
$20,000, Nurse Wages for $2,500,
Town Accountant Wages for
$2,500, Town Counsel Expense
Override and Bylaws Votes on May 7
Upton Town Meeting
By Michelle Sanford
Until the results of the Regional School
District’s Proposition 2 ½ override are
determined, a number of financial articles
on Upton’s May 7 Town Meeting warrant
will be deferred until a June 4 reconvened
meeting.
“I can say that generally we will be
deferring to June 4 all articles that require
a raise and appropriate vote,” said Town
Manager Blythe Robinson. Nonetheless,
there are a number of important warrant
articles that will be determined during
the May 7 meeting, including the first
Proposition 2½ override vote for the
Regional School District, bylaw changes,
establishing revolving funds, and funding
for Community Preservation Act projects.
Article 4 on the warrant is asking Upton
residents whether or not they support a
$1,391,632 Proposition 2½ override for the
Mendon Upton Regional School District.
Mendon’s override amount is approximately
$1.13 million and will be decided on during
its May 1 Annual Town meeting and a May
12 ballot vote.
According to Regional School District
Superintendant Joseph Maruszczak, several
of the driving factors behind the override
include increased costs in contractual
salaries, health insurance, transportation
expenses, the Worcester County Retirement
Fund, and electricity costs. Additionally,
the state’s Regional Transportation
reimbursement was reduced by more than
$300,000 and funding the Regional District
may access through new growth has been
decreased. Factored into the override are
also new investments including several
teaching positions and instructional
technology.
If passed, the tax impact to a $250,000
Upton home will be a $352, increase, a
$450,000 home will see a $634 tax increase,
and a $550,000 home will see a $775
increase. The override ballot question in
Upton will take place during a Special
Election set for May 18.
Article 8 on the warrant is seeking to set
up revolving funds for the Conservation
Commission, Board of Health, Upton Town
Library, Council on Aging, Recreation
Commission and Land Stewardship
Committee. Article 9, if passed, will permit
the spending of Chapter 90 monies.
Articles 16 and 17 are being brought
forward by the Community Preservation
Committee. Article 16 is requesting $15,000
from Community Preservation Act funding
to be utilized for various administrative
expenses for Fiscal Year 2016. Article 17 is
seeking $15,000 from CPA funds to finance
the final survey and engineering expenses
for a new parking lot at Kiwanis Beach.
Bylaw and policy changes will also be
voted on during the May 7 meeting and
include Articles 10, 11, 12, 13, and 14.
Article 10 is a Nuisance Bylaw which aims
to protect residents and neighborhoods by
requiring property owners and occupants to
properly maintain their properties.
Article 11 aims to control dogs in town
in an effort to prevent injury to property,
persons, and animals through the passage of
the Canine Control Bylaw and Article 12, if
passed, would allow the assessors to exempt
from taxation property owned by veteran’s
organizations, such as the VFW Post.
Article 13 is looking to establish a
Domestic Violence Leave Policy for
town employees and Article 14 concerns
a voluntary waiver of health insurance
allowing employees to opt out of the town’s
health insurance program.
Articles to be voted on at the June 4
reconvened meeting include the new Fiscal
Year budget, as well as funding to purchase
self-contained breathing apparatus for the
Fire Department, CPR machines for the
town’s ambulances, a pick up truck for the
Highway Supervisor, a replacement stainless
steel truck body, upgrades to the town’s Web
site, costs associated for a project manager
and architectural services to develop a
schematic design for a joint Library and
Council on Aging facility and transfers to
the Finance Committee Reserve Fund and
to the Stabilization Fund.
Both the May 7 and reconvened June 4
meetings will begin at 7 p.m. at Nipmuc
Regional High School. A Special Town
Meeting will also take place on May 7 and
begin at 6:30 p.m. at the high school.
Smaller Size Trash Bags for Upton Residents
In response to several inquiries from residents, the Upton Board of Health announces a
smaller size trash bag, 15-gallons, for the town’s curbside collection service will be offered.
This 15-gallon size will be in addition to the current 30-gallon bags already offered.
Residents will have a choice of using either size.
The 15-gallon bags will be offered for a trial period of approximately two to three
months. If the response is positive, the additional size will continue to be offered.
The 15-gallon bags will be sold at $10 for a roll of 10. In order to avoid confusion for
store clerks, the 15-gallon bags will be blue while the 30-gallon bags will remain yellow.
Residents will be limited to no more than eight of the smaller bags per week. Locations
offering both sizes will be; Gasco, Liquor Plus and the Board of Health office.
For more information please contact the Board of Health office at 508-529-6813 or
email [email protected]
MAY 1, 2015
for $10,000, and DPW Building
Utilities for $10,000.
If approved, Article 2 will
amend the vote taken under
Article 4 (the Water Enterprise
budget) at last year’s Annual Town
Meeting to make supplemental
appropriations for the remainder
of this fiscal year and will transfer
funding to reconcile shortfalls to
water expenses totaling $10,000.
And finally Article 3 is to
amend the vote taken under
Article 5 (the Wastewater
Upton’s First
Agricultural Day
Upton’s First Annual Agricultural Day
will be held on Saturday May 30 from 9
a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Upton Grange Hall,
26 School St. There will be a plant swap,
plants for sale, free workshops, raffles,
refreshments, and fun. Workshops include
a 9 a.m. Backyard Beekeeping program
by Lisa Henry, a 10 a.m. Gardening with
Nutrients by Gary Neves, an 11 a.m.
Butter and Cheesemaking Demo by Tully
Milk Farm and a 1 p.m. 4H program with
Karla Barrows.
The event is sponsored by the Massachusetts State Grange.
For more information email the Upton
Grange Chairman, Ken Paulson at Upton.
[email protected] or call 508-330-6732.
Enterprise budget) at last year’s
Annual Town Meeting to make
supplemental appropriations
for the remainder of this fiscal
year and will transfer funding
to reconcile shortfalls totaling
$15,000; $5,000 for general
labor and $10,000 to Wastewater
Expenses.
The Upton Finance Committee
gave a favorable recommendation
to all three articles.
I can help make your vehicle buying
experience a positive one
SHARON REED
No High Pressure
Buyer’s Advocate
Call me so we can talk or come in
and see me at
Imperial Cars in Mendon.
Sharon Reed: 774-287-2798
Dealership: 508-473-8400
[email protected]
[email protected]
Chrysler•Dodge•Ram•Jeep
PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS!
BOB
FLEMING
for
Selectman
VOTE Bob Fleming May 4th
ACTIONS COUNT!
➤ $8,000,000 Trafic Improvement Project
➤ $2,360,000 in Grants Over Five Years
➤ $650,920 in Inter-Municipal Agreements
➤ Town Hall Renovation
➤ 3rd Municipal Water Well
➤ Concept for Town Common Improvement
Experience Does Matter!
Paid for by the Committee to Elect Bob Fleming Selectman
11
Mendon News
Mendon Meetings
Friday, May 1
Finance Committee, Miscoe Hill School, 6:30
p.m.
Annual Town Meeting, Miscoe Hill School, 7
p.m.
Tuesday, May 5
Candidates Night, Senior Center, 7 p.m.
Thursday, May 7
Conservation Commission, Town Hall, 7:30 p.m.
Zoning Board of Appeals, Public Hearing on 127
Uxbridge Rd., Town Hall, 7:30 p.m.
Monday, May 11
Planning Board, Public Hearing on 101
Blackstone St., Town Hall, 7:30 p.m.
Planning Board, Public Hearing on Bylaw
Amendments, Town Hall, 8 p.m.
Tuesday, May 12
Town Election, Miscoe Hill School, 7 a.m. to 8
p.m.
All meetings dates and times are subject to
change. For the most up to date information on
Mendon Meetings, view www.mendonma.gov
Mendon Celebrates
Opening Day
Tom Belland, past President of Mendon Junior Baseball (left) was presented with
a plaque from Nipmuc Youth Softball President Steve Orff (right) during the
Opening Day ceremonies. Belland, a past President of Mendon Junior Baseball,
and Bill Ambrosino, a past Vice President of Nipmuc Youth Softball were
honored for their contributions as league board members and coaches for many
years. Melissa Orff photo.
Players from the
Mustangs Farm
League softball
team run on to
the field after
their team is
announced over
the loudspeaker
during the
annual Opening
Day ceremonies
for baseball
and softball in
Mendon on April
25. Melissa Orff
photo.
Mendon Senior Center
The Mendon Senior Center serves Mendon
residents 60 years of age or older, people with
disabilities, and care givers. Hours of operation
are Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m.
to 3:30 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m. to noon, or
call 508-478-6175.
Tuesday, May 5
SHINE Insurance Counseling, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Monthly Blood Pressure Clinic, 11 a.m. to 12
p.m.
Wednesday, May 6
Tower Hill Day Trip, 1 to 7 p.m.
Thursday, May 7
Mendon Minstrels Spring Program, Uh-Oh! 11
a.m.
Monday, May 11
Friends Meeting, 11 a.m.
Wednesday, May 13
COA Meeting, 10:30 a.m.
Thursday, May 14
Diabetes Management, 10:30 a.m.
Monday
Whole Foods, 9 a.m.
Cribbage and Bridge, 9 a.m.
Chorus, 12:30 p.m.
Tuesday
Stretch and Flexibility, 9 a.m.
Chair Exercise, 11:15 a.m.
Lunch Club, 12 p.m.
Wii Bowling, 1 p.m.
Computer/Technology Class, 2:30 p.m.
Wednesday
Shopping Van, 8 a.m. (Alternating Wednesdays)
Panera Bread, 9 a.m.
Gentle Yoga, 9 a.m.
Tai Chi, 10:15 a.m.
Thursday
Cribbage, 9 a.m.
Stretch and Flexibility, 9 a.m.
Wii Bowling, 1 p.m.
Friday
Outreach, 9 a.m. to noon, by appointment
The Fight’in Phils run on to Pezzella Field at Memorial Park during the
April 25 Opening Day ceremonies. Melissa Orff photo.
For more photos of the start of the 2015 Mendon Baseball/Softball season by Melissa Orff visit TownCrier.us
and click on photo galleries
Mendon Tax Bills Due
Mendon residents are reminded that the fourth and final
installment of Fiscal Year 2015 real estate and personal property
tax bills are due by Friday, May 1. The Collector’s office will be
open that day from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Payments can also be
made online at MendonMa.gov until the end of the day on May 1,
by mail, or in person. Credit cards can be accepted at the window. Please refer to your bill for normal window hours. Payments not in hand by the close of business on May 1 will be
assessed interest. Please provide for mailing and/or processing
time. Mendon Minstrels Spring Program and
Mother’s Day Luncheon
Enjoy a spunky compilation of Uh-Oh! melodies performed for
your listening pleasure by the Mendon Minstrels at the Mendon
Senior Center on Thursday, May 7 at 11 a.m., just prior to their
summer hiatus. Why not invite a friend and join us for this free
musical program followed by a delicious Mother’s Day luncheon
featuring baked stuffed chicken catered by Tri-Valley. The cost
of the luncheon is $3 per person. Call the Mendon Senior Center
at 508-478-6175 or stop by to sign up for one or both programs.
Transportation is available.
Brothers of the Brush Host
Candidates Night
The Mendham Brush Association, the Brothers of the Brush, is
once again hosting a Candidates Night for the Annual Mendon
Town Election on Tuesday, May 5 at 7 p.m. at the Mendon Senior
Center, Providence Rd.
The Brothers invite all to come “meet & greet” with the
candidates who are running in the upcoming, May 12, Mendon
Town election. The candidates will also have an opportunity to
speak and answer questions. Dick Ferrucci will be the emcee.
Light refreshments will be served. For more information, email
[email protected].
Eating with the Lions
The Mendon Lions Club will be hosting a fundraiser for eye
research on Wednesday, May 6 at Lowell’s Restaurant on Rt.
140 in Mendon. All diners seated between 5 and 8 p.m. will
have 15 percent of their check donated to the Mass. Lions Eye
Research Fund when they present a Lions coupon to their
server. Lion’s dine-out coupons are now available at area merchants
and banks. They will also be available that night at Lowell’s
Restaurant. Come out and enjoy a great meal and donate to a great
cause at the same time.
boarding and doggie daycare
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Visit www.towncrier.us for Breaking News, Ad Club Introduces, Calendar Items, Photo Galleries, Feature Stories, and more!
12
MAY 1, 2015
Mendon News
Selectman’s Race,
Override, Debt
Exclusions on Mendon
Ballot for May 12
Election
By Michelle Sanford
Mendon residents are reminded that the Town
Election is scheduled for May 12 at Miscoe
Hill School; voters will determine who their
next Selectman will be and the outcome of an
override and two debt exclusions.
Newcomers Chris Burke and Chuck
Scharnagle are both vying for the Board
of Selectman’s three year seat. Incumbent
Michael Goddard, who served on the Board
for five years, decided not to seek re-election.
Burke has lived in town for 22 years and has
served on building committees for the Fire
Station and Police Station and was also a fire
fighter in Mendon. He’s currently serving as
Chair of the Finance Committee, a position
he says has given him a greater understanding
of town budgets and how town government
operates. “I feel if you’re going to take that
seat [Selectman’s], you should really have an
understanding of how things operate and sit
on a few committees,” he said. Burke said if
elected, he’d like to focus on the capital needs
of the community, investigate the expansion of
the green communities programs, find creative
ways to increase the town’s revenue, and boost
the volunteer base in town to keep Mendon
moving forward.
Scharnagle has lived in Mendon for nearly
15 years and works as the CIO for the Tribal
Government of the Mohegan Indians of
Connecticut. Although he hasn’t served on
any town boards or committees, he has sat
on several business boards and feels his 30
plus years of business experience is an asset
that will help him serve his hometown in the
Selectman’s seat. As Selectman, Scharnagle
said he’d like to focus on slowly bringing small
businesses into the community to help with
the tax base. He said another priority would
be to focus on the needs of the town and town
services. “I understand a huge focus is the
schools, but it’s critical to make certain town
departments are cared for as well.”
Although the Selectman’s seat is the
only race in Mendon, there are two other
newcomers who will be on the ballot and
include Kevin Rudden for the Assessor’s three
year seat and Ellen Argo for the Taft Public
Library’s two year seat.
The remaining candidates are incumbents
who are also running unchallenged. They
include Jay Byer for Moderator for one year;
Margaret Bonderenko for Town Clerk for
three years; Thomas Fichtner for the Board
of Health for three years; Robert Carlson for
Taft Public Library Trustee for three years;
Leigh Martin for the Mendon Upton Regional
School District School Committee’s three
year seat; B. John Palumbo for the Housing
Authority’s five year seat; and Barry Iadarola
for the Planning Board’s five year seat.
Also on Mendon’s ballot will be the Regional
School District’s Proposition 2 ½ Override
ballot question requesting approximately
$1.13 million dollars; the estimated tax impact
is approximately $475 for an average priced
home. A debt exclusion ballot question for
a new $180,000 six wheel dump truck and
sander for the town, as well as a possible
debt exclusion question for the new library
up to $75,000 will be on the ballot. If passed,
the amount for both debt exclusions will be
combined. At the maximum amounts, the total
tax impact for both is estimated at .11 cents
per thousand of a home’s value over three
years.
Polls for the May 12 Town Election will
open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Miscoe Hill
School.
MAY 1, 2015
TIF Agreement Finalized for
May 1 Vote in Mendon
By Michelle Sanford
During Mendon’s May 1 Annual Town Meeting,
residents will decide whether or not to approve a Tax
Incentive Financing (TIF) program that could bring a
newly constructed business into town. During an April
21 meeting, the Board of Selectmen finalized the details
of the agreement which must also be approved by a town
vote.
D. C. Bates manufactures, distributes, and services
truck and trailer hydraulic equipment. The family
operated company is currently headquartered in Hopedale.
However, due to an increase in customer demand, the
company is hoping to build a larger, 45,000 square foot
facility in Mendon on Morrison Dr. The company is also
looking to take advantage of a TIF agreement with the
town, which provides tax incentives to newly constructed
businesses.
Communities that take part in the TIF program continue
to receive 100 percent of the existing real estate taxes on
the property, as a result, Mendon would not lose any tax
revenue from the Morrison Dr. property. “The beauty about
the TIF is that the community doesn’t lose a dime on the
existing taxes, it’s basically a discount on future taxes,”
explained Lynn Tokarczyk, the Government Incentives
Consultant for the company.
Mendon’s TIF agreement with D. C. Bates would be over
a ten year period starting with a 100 percent exemption on
the new projected taxes which would then scale down to
five percent.
“Right now, the town of Mendon is collecting $8,000 in
tax revenue on the land,” said Tokarczyk. “Fast forward over
a 10-year period, based on this particular TIF proposal,
the town would generate new revenue and permit fees of
approximately $246,000. That’s the net pick up to the town
D.C. Bates would like to construct a new 45,000 square facility on
Morrison Dr., Mendon
of Mendon.”
The Board of Selectmen felt the proposal was a good move for
the town. “Bringing in the right commercial business into the town
is something we want to achieve,” said Selectman Chair Michael
Goddard.
In addition to Town Meeting approval, the state must also
approve the agreement. After the meeting, Tokarczyk said if the
TIF agreement is not approved by the residents, the Company will
evaluate its options.
In addition to the TIF agreement, a number of other articles will
be voted on during the May 1 Town Meeting and include a new $15.9
million dollar budget, a $1.13 million Proposition 2 ½ override for
the Regional School District, a $180,000 debt exclusion for a new six
wheel truck and sand plow for the Highway Department, a possible
debt exclusion for up to $75,000 to close a budget gap for the new
library, and paying Showtime Entertainment’s legal expenses which
could run upwards of $180,000.
The May 1 Annual Town Meeting will take place at Miscoe Hill
School and is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. The ballot vote for the
Proposition 2 ½ override and two debt exclusions will take place on
May 12 from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. also at Miscoe Hill School.
Friends Progressive Yard Sale
The Friends of Mendon Elders will once again hold their 11th Annual
Progressive Yard Sale on Saturday, June 6 beginning at 7:30 a.m. at the Mendon
Senior Center with a rain date of June 7 Shoppers may purchase the Master List
of Sales Directory with an annually updated map of the town included for only
$2. Once they have the Directory and map, they will “Progress” from there to the
many yard sales throughout the entire town including one at the Senior Center.
Last year more than 40 homes participated with folks coming from miles around.
Any Mendon resident wanting to take part in this town wide yard sale may
contact the Friends of Elders at [email protected] to obtain
an application. There are also copies at the Senior Center. In exchange for your
$15 registration fee supporting the Friends with this annual fund-raiser, the
Selectmen have agreed to waive the usual $5 yard-sale permit fee to participants
that day. The Friends do all the publicity and paid advertising, and provide you
with a laminated yard sale sign for your mailbox post. For those unable to hold a yard sale at their home, the Senior Center is offering
limited space for your event on a first come basis for the same cost.
some businesses in town have graciously taken out ads in the Master List of
Sales Directory, in support of the Friends and their mission to support the Senior
Center programs and facilities, it is hoped that many of businesses will participate
in the Town Wide event by listing a special sale of the day or other special in the
directory. For more information call 508-478-6175 or 508-473-6614.
2015 Mendon Senior
of the Year
The Mendon Council on Aging is now
accepting nominations for this year’s Senior
Citizen of the Year. Since 1978 some deserving
person (or persons) has been awarded the
annual distinction of Senior Citizen of the
Year. The chosen Mendon resident, age 60 or
older, generally exemplifies a spirit of public
service and has made a positive difference in
the community. Written nominations will be
accepted until June 1 and the award will be
presented in September. Nomination forms
may be obtained from the Mendon Senior
Center or on-line from the Council on Aging
home page at MendonMa.gov. Please drop
off or mail nominations to the Senior Center
at 62 Providence St., Mendon, MA 01756. If
you have any questions about the nomination
process, please call 508-478-6175.
Honoring 60 Years of Playing and Coaching Sports in Mendon
Thousands of hours of sport participation by one Mendon family were celebrated on April 25. During the Opening Day ceremonies for
the start of the 2015 baseball and softball season, the Mendon Parks Department declared that the t-ball field at Memorial Park be
named Grady Field in honor of the Grady family. Family members have been involved in Mendon’s baseball and softball programs since
1963 and have been coaching the town’s youth in all kinds of sports for 60 years. Shown in this photo are members of the extensive Grady
clan gathering under the sign that marks the field named in their honor. Contributed photo
13
Summer Fun
Take the Time to Explore the Wonders of Mesa Verde
By Jane Bigda
Editor
One of the most spectacular National Parks, Mesa Verde is like a
still pond slowly revealing its wonders to those who take the time
to look and explore.
Unlike other western National Parks—Grand Canyon, Yosemite,
Yellowstone or Zion—that immediately overwhelm the visitor with
their wonders, Mesa Verde, located in southwest Colorado, seems
at first to be just another desert highland dotted with pueblo ruins.
More careful examination reveals the preserved 600 cliff dwellings
built by the prehistoric Ancestral Puebolans in the shallow
sandstone caves and canyon outcroppings beginning in 1100.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mesa Verde is the largest
archaeological preserve in the United States and the only cultural
National Park. Established in 1906 by President Theodore
Roosevelt, who said its aim is “to preserve the works of man,” the
park protects some of the best-preserved cliff dwellings in the
world among its 4,700 archeological sites.
Mesa Verde, Spanish for green table, encompasses 81.4 square
miles or 52,000 acres near the Four Corners, where the states of
Colorado, Utah, Arizona and New Mexico meet. A transition zone
between the desert plateaus and the Rocky Mountains the terrain
ranges from 6,000 to 8,500 feet in elevation.
The Ancient Puebloans, subsistence farmers, first came to the
area in about 600 to grow corn and other crops on the mesas. By
750, they settled in, building mesa-top pueblos or villages of adobe.
Four centuries later they began constructing the cliff dwellings.
One of the best examples of green buildings–environmentally
responsible structures–the cliff dwellings took advantage of the
canyons dotting the park to optimize the survival the Puebloans.
Using solar energy, the masonry walls of the dwellings were heated
by the winter sun while warm winter breezes rising from the
valleys raised the temperature 10 to 20 degrees higher than the
mesa tops. In the summer the cliff overhang shaded the dwellings
from the hot sun. The cliff dwellings also allowed the Pueblolans to
farm the middle mesa area at 7,000 feet, which was cooler than the
higher elevations and reduced the water consumption for crops,
crucial for survival in a semi-arid environment.
The National Park Service offers tours of the some of the most
famous multi-story cliff dwellings including the spectacular Cliff
Palace, thought to be the largest cliff dwelling in North America
with 200 rooms; Balcony House, the most adventurous cliff
dwelling tour accessed by a tunnel and 32-foot entrance ladder;
and Long House, the second-largest village in the park, which
housed 150 people. Visitors can explore the Spruce Tree House, the
third largest dwelling with 130 rooms, and eight kivas, ceremonial
chambers, on their own during the summer months.
Visitors can also hike along the many trails through park, get a
feel for the area by driving along the six-mile Mesa Loop Trail and
learn more at the Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum.
Mesa Verde National Park is open year round but the best time
to visit is from late May through early October, when all sites are
open and lodging is available within the park at Far View Lodge or
Morefield Campground.
The very impressive Cliff Palace, largest cliff dwelling in North
America, is a must see for anyone visiting Mesa Verde National
Park. Jane Bigda photo
Fast Facts
 The Mesa Verde park
entrance is along Highway
160 between the towns of
Mancos and Cortez, Colo.
and about 35 miles west of
Durango, Colo.
 Park entrance fees: $10 per
vehicle, January 2 through
May 21 and September 8
through December 31; $15
May 22 to September 7.
Fees also apply for rangerguided tours.
 Park Information: nps.gov/
meve
 Accommodations: Mancos
and Cortez offer limited
housing choices; Durango
provides the most extensive
accommodations in the
area and offers other
attractions such as the
Durango & Silverton narrow
gauge railroad. For more
information visit Durango.
org/discover-durango/
mesa-verde/
 Airports: Albuquerque,
N.M. is the nearest large
airport, about four hours
away. If you choose this
airport make sure to detour
to Santa Fe, Taos and the
cliff dwelling at Bandelier,
near Los Alamos. Denver
is seven hours away and
offers a breathtaking
drive through the Rocky
Mountains.
A Fun-Filled Summer
for Fresh Air Children
Fresh Air volunteers need your help
to create another fun-filled summer for
children from New York City! Each summer,
nearly 4,000 children visit volunteer host
families in rural, suburban, and small town
communities across 13 states from Virginia
to Maine and Canada. Host families simply
want to share their homes with city children
and the pure joys of summertime outside of
the city. Families find hosting so rewarding
that more than 65 percent of all Fresh Air
children are re-invited to visit the same host
families year after year. First-time Fresh Air
visitors are six to 12 years old, and Fresh
Air hosts range from young families to
grandparents. All it takes is the willingness
to welcome a New York City child to your
community.
“Our Fresh Air child loves hanging out
on the front lawn and jumping in the pool.
Honestly, she enjoys the simple things the
most,” says a Fresh Air host.
The Fresh Air Fund, an independent,
not-for-profit agency, has provided free
summer experiences to more than 1.8
million New York City children from lowincome communities since 1877. For more
information about hosting a Fresh Air child
this summer, please contact Krista Oetsen
at 508-454-5330 or visit The Fresh Air Fund
online at www.freshair.org.
14
MAY 1, 2015
Summer Fun
Community School Use Summer
Specialty Camps
Len Morcone, Director of the Milford Community School Use
Program has released the 2015 Summer Specialty Camp Program
schedule. Each summer, the Milford Community Program offers many
sports, fitness, educational, art and music programs. This year, there are
over 30 programs for children of all ages.
Dates, times, cost and locations are available at the Community Use
Office, which is located at the Milford High School, or at www.mcs.
milford.ma.us. On the home page, select “Kids Summer” from the menu
on the left and our listing of day camps and specialty camps may be
viewed by scrolling down. Click on each program to see the details.
As always, space is limited and is on a first-come, first-serve basis. No
confirmations are sent.
For more information on these camps or any other summer programs,
please call the Milford Community School Use Program office at 508478-1119, visit www.mcs. milford.ma.us, or stop by the office located in
Milford High School, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
33rd Annual Jimmy Fund
Scooper Bowl
Start
your
season
The 33rd annual Jimmy Fund Scooper
Bowl® presented by Walgreens will take place at Boston’s
City Hall Plaza on June 2, 3 and 4 from 12 noon to 8
p.m.
Dozens of flavors will be served by top ice cream and
frozen yogurt companies, including: Baskin-Robbins,
Ben & Jerry’s, Friendly’s, and more. The Scooper Bowl
- the nation’s largest all-you-can-eat ice cream festival
– will be held rain or shine. All proceeds support adult
and pediatric cancer care and research at Dana-Farber
Cancer Institute.
Since its inception in 1983 the Scooper Bowl has
raised more than $4.5 million for adult and pediatric
cancer research and care. Scooper Bowl general
admission is $10, $5 for children ages three to nine, and
free for children under three. A three-day Scooper pass
is $20. Tickets are available online at www.scooperbowl.
org and also at the door.
early!
We carry Hayward® heaters and heat pumps.
Above Ground Pools
Sa l e S
Milford Country Club
Inground Pools
Milford Country Club Condos & Golf Course
Gift
Certificates
Available
Call Miss Schube at 508-478-1250 or
email: [email protected] for full information
Service
l i n e r Sa l e S & i n S ta l l at i o n
Service & Maintenance
Golf in Privacy
Memberships Available $350.ºº
9 Hole: Par 3 • No Tee Times Required
VISIT OUR NEW WEBSITE
milfordcountryclubcondo.com
&
Pool and Spa Chemicals
• Unlimited Play 7 days a week
• No TeeTimes Required Play
When you Want
• Modern Clubhouse Built in
2010
• No Minimum Food Purchase
Required
508-966-1322
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cRyStalpoolStoRe.coM
95 Mechanic St, Rte 140, Bellingham
Monday-Friday 10am-6pm • Saturday 10am-2pm
Starting May 17th open Sunday 10am-2pm
open Memorial Day 10am-2pm
Are You in the Summer Camp Industry?
Your Ad Belongs Here!
Upton Rec-Com 2015
Summer Programs
Information and registration for all programs can be found at uptonreccom.org.
Kids@Play
June 23 - August 14
Grades K-8
Upton Town Beach
$210/week, $45 a day
Fees include field trip Wednesdays
Red Cross Swim Lessons
In Town $60 - Family Max $120
Out of Town $70
Family Max $130
June 29 - July 24
Instructor: Steve Kedski
Morning Classes M-F 9-NOON
Registration Sat. June 20 & 27 at
Kiwanis Beach 10-NOON
Instructor will assign class time
at registration
MUSICAL THEATER: PETER PAN (for children ages 7-13)
Kids and parents will be asked to assist with set & costumes
2 WEEK SESSION
July 6 - 17
Meets Monday - Friday
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
WHERE: Nipmuc High School
TIME: 9:00am - 1pm
FEE: $200
INSTRUCTORS:
Jen Davis-Nicoll & Bob Nicoll
FINAL PERFORMANCE:
Friday, July 17 at 11 am
Space is limited
registration deadline June 20
Healthy Hopper Pass!
Purchase a $100 or $70 coupon to use at any of Rec’s Fitness classes.
15 classes for $100 is less than $7 a class (6-month expiration)
10 classes for $70 (4-month expiration) Cross train - no gym
membership - Use the hopper pass for all 11 classes and you can
start at anytime!
MAY 1, 2015
15
Browsing the
OPENING MAY 3
KELLY’S FARM
PET SUPPLIES
2
for
14
Dogs • Cats • Birds • Fish
Small Animals • Reptiles
1
Now Entering Our 79th Season!
Join us for Dog Training
Classes!
Call or visit our website
for more information!
Mother’s Day
Flowers
Plants
Bouquets
Hanging Baskets
508-234-8900 • ThePawPlanet.com
1167-3 Providence Rd, Whitinsville
Store Hours: M-F 9-7, Sat 9-6, Sun 12-5
Herbs • Fruit & Vegetables • Boston Teacakes Cinnamon Bread • Red Barn Coffee
Freshly Ground Peanut Butter
Bernat Antiques
3
Enjoy some retail therapy
We Buy and Sell Antiques!
Rick and Corinna Taylor
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
Tues thru Sun 10-5 • Closed Mon
89 Elmdale Rd
Uxbridge
508-278-5525
www.bernatantiques.com
RTE. 140, UPTON • 508-529-4564
Gle
n
A
122A
8 7
4
Sutton St
Scho
ol St
2
12
od
wo
Lin
e
Av
Thank you to our Advertise
them you saw their ad in
~~~~~~~~~~~
Mother’s Day
Shop at the
Sassy Foxx!
5
Spring & Summer Items Arriving Daily!
• Women’s Clothing (Plus & Juniors too)
• Household Decor
• Furniture
• Accessories
• Jewelry
~ We Take Consignment Items by Appointment Only ~
508-278-9700
Tues 10-5 • Wed, Thurs 10-7 • Fri, Sat 10-5
Downtown Uxbridge, 31 South Main Street,
16
6
Spaightwood
Galleries
120 Main St, Upton; 508-529-2511
JOAN MIRÓ
ORIGINAL PRINTS
140 Original Aquatints, Etchings,
Linocuts, Lithographs, and Woodcuts,
1929-1980.
Now until July 19.
We are available on Saturdays from
10 a.m. to 6 p.m.,
Sundays from noon to 6 p.m.,
and weekdays by arrangement
Find us on the web at www.spaightwoodgalleries.com
Like us on Facebook at Spaightwood Galleries, Inc.
Next to Fire Station
MAY 1, 2015
e Back Roads
20% OFF
12
ANY ITEM
OF YOUR
CHOICE
13
Great Selection of Unique Gifts for Mother’s Day
Serving brides needs since 1991.
Specializing in Bridal, Mothers
and Bridesmaid attire.
We carry Jewelry * Bath & Body * Accessories * Home Décor
and More for you, your loved ones and your pets!
110 Church Street Whitinsville, MA 01588
508-234-9166 www.bridalsbyrochelle.com
email:[email protected]
INDEX OF ADVERTISERS
11
1. Kelly Farms,..,..,..,..,..,..,..,..,..,.Upton
2. Paw Planet ,..,..,..,..,..,..,. Whitinsville
Unique Gifts | Fine Yarn
4. Mendon Greenhouse,..,..,.., Mendon
3 Maple Street, Mendon, MA 01756
5. Sassy Foxx,..,..,..,..,..,..,..,..Uxbridge
508-381-3423
6. Spaightwood Galleries-,..,..,..,.Upton
6
7. Curtain Factory ,..,..,..,..,.Northbridge
Fiske Mill Rd
N.
Ma
in
St.
Mech
anic S
t.
Ave
.
3. Bernat Antiques,..,..,..,..,..,..Uxbridge
8. Rockdale Rug & Braid ,..Northbridge
9. Bittersweet Hollow,..,..,..,..,Uxbridge
1
10. Stardust Jewelers,..,..,..,.., Mendon
11. Yarn Garden,..,..,..,..,..,..,.., Mendon
12. Bridals by Rochelle,..,.. Whitinsville
Qu
ak
er
St
.
Wes
t St.
13. Artful Mix,..,..,..,..,..,..,..,..,.Hopedale
Ce
ntr
al S
t
.
10
9
9
Blackstone St
Elmdale Rd
5
3
Our shop is filled with
Pictures, Linens,
Braided Rugs, Candles.
Flowers, Baskets,
Yard Décor,
Timed Primitive Pillars &
Tapers
“Your Friends in the Diamond Business”
Since 1978
ay
D
s
’
r
e
h
t
o
M
r
fo
Just in Time
10
Celebrating
ne Year at our new location
Fine Jewelry • Custom Designs
Full Service Repairs
Plus all your everyday
decorating necessities
IMPERIAL PLAZA
12 Uxbridge Road, Mendon
508.478.2312
ers! Please go visit these fine stores and tell
The Town Crier Browsing the Back Roads!
www.stardustmendon.com
ww
NEW SPRING STYLES
7
Over 200 Displays
OPEN 7 Days a Week
Mon, Tues, Wed - 10am to 5pm
to 6pm
cf
cf Thursday - 10am
Premium
Outlet
Saturday
- 10am to 5pm
Sunday - Noon to 5pm
UTLET
curtain factory
OUTLET
Since 1974
8 Sutton Street, Northbridge, MA (508) 234-2944
www.CurtainFactoryOutlet.com • www.facebook.com/curtainfactory
MAY 1, 2015
STARDUST JEWELERS
13
St.
11
14. Ritas,..,..,..,..,..,..,..,..,..,..,..Uxbridge
S. Main
4
14
Tuesday thru Saturday • 10am to 5pm
Knit Night
3rd Thursday of every month from 7-9pm
8
Rockdale
RUG & BRAID
Outlet
10 Sutton Street • Northbridge, MA
508-234-2882
HOURS:
MONDAY - TUESDAY - WEDNESDAY - FRIDAY - SATURDAY
OPEN 10 am to 5 pm
THURSDAY open 10 am to 6 pm
SUNDAY 12 pm - 5 pm
www.rockdalerugandbraid.com • facebook.com/rockdalerug
17
Spring Spruce Up
Daniels Farmstead’s Annual Plant Sale and Swap
The Daniels Farmstead’s Annual Plant Sale and
Swap is Sunday, May 17 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at
the Farmstead, 286 Mendon Street, Blackstone.
Plants for sale will include geraniums, petunias,
impatiens, hanging baskets, perennials, hostas, and
more. A limited number of heirloom tomato plants
of several varieties will be available and will also
be grown in our garden for the upcoming farmer’s
market season, which opens on Sunday, July 12.
This is also a great time to share some of
those plants that you may have propagated too
successfully! If you are interested in swapping a
plant or plants, we will be happy to exchange on an
equivalent basis such as a house plant for a house
plant, a seedling for a seedling or an established
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perennial for the like, and so forth. Please identify
your botanical offering. The offer to swap will be
honored by Daniels Farmstead, but other gardeners
on hand will use their own discretion in this regard.
Along with the plant festivities enjoy a wildflower
walk through the woods and fields with Kathy
Barton at 11 a.m. Dress accordingly, it’s tick season.
The grill at the farmstead will open at 11:30 a.m.
with a menu of hot dogs, burgers (both beef &
veggie) chips and beverage. Home baked goodies
will be available to eat on-site or take home.
Come see what’s growing in the fields and see the
roof and cupola restoration of the 1850 barn. For
further information: Justine Brewer, 508-726-2042
or Paulette Boyko 508-560-5768.
Electronics Recycling Day
MILFORD-The First Congregational Church of Milford is sponsoring an Electronics
Recycling Day on Saturday, May 2, from 8 a.m. to 12 noon in the church parking lot,
4 Congress St., across from Draper Memorial Park. The church will ensure that 99
percent of dropped off items will be reused and recycled.
All computer monitors, computers, parts and accessories as well as any office
equipment, faxes, copiers, printers, scanners and any audio/video devices or electronics
including televisions can be recycled. Recycling fees range from $5 to $20 per item.
Cash payments only, please. Cell phones can be recycled at no charge and will be
donated to charities that recycle and reuse them.
This event is an easy and fun way to dispose of the old electronics in your garage,
basements and offices. A drive thru process will allow those donating to quickly drop
off their items and help will be available.
Part of the process includes complete hard drive destruction. The recycling vendor
will erase and shred all hard drives at no additional cost.
The First Congregational Church Recycling event is held twice a year during May and
September. For more information contact Martha Ellis, 508-429-3303.
Hopedale, MA
Your Storage Solution!
877-626-4647
www.gominis-ma.com
508-473-1800
[email protected]
We offer a variety of services at fair and competitive rates.
We are fully insured and provide free estimates on any job.
• Lawn Maintenance
• Lawn Repair • Patios • Fire Pits
• Shrub Trimming/Installation CALL
• Steps
& Walkways
ABOUT
• Fertilization Programs
•
Retaining/Seating
Planting Walls
SNOWPLOWING!
• Spring & Fall Clean Ups
• Mulch Installation
• Curbside Leaf Pick Up
Leaf Pickup
•Curbside
Brush Removal
• Loam & Seed/Sod
Visit one of our three showrooms
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Westborough - Franklin - Natick
MAY 1, 2015
Spring Spruce Up
Locally Grown: Greenleaf Garden Club Prepares for Annual Plant Sale
The Greenleaf Garden Club will hold its annual plant
sale at the Louisa Lake parking lot, Dilla St., Milford, on
Saturday, May 16 from 8 a.m. to 12 Noon. Members are
now potting up cuttings and planting seeds. As the ground
gets warmer and perennials reach for the sun, members
will be potting up perennials from their gardens. The
sale is very much a locally grown event. Locally grown by
Milford Greenleaf Garden Club members, the plants will
be well acclimated for Milford gardens.
The sale will feature a wide variety of vegetables,
annuals, succulents and herbs as well as perennials. Some
container gardens will be available. In addition, a garden
gallery of ornaments, tools, vases and garden related items
will be offered for sale. Refreshments and coffee will be
available to enjoy as one browses.
The income from the event will be used to fund the
Plant Sale and Tower Hill Passes
Join The Blackstone Valley Gardeners for our Plant Sale: on May 30, at 9 a.m. until sold out, on the
Whitinsville Town Common. People in the community say they look forward to our plant sale every year. This
is our only fundraiser and it allows us to pay for passes to Tower Hill, available at local libraries, a donation to
the Community Harvest Project in Grafton, and the high quality of our monthly programs.
The Blackstone Valley Gardeners for many years has donated passes for Tower Hill Botanic Garden to the
communities of Blackstone, Upton, Uxbridge, and Northbridge, via their public libraries. Are the cards well
used? We think so! A survey of one community’s use saved over $240 in admission fees so far this year!
Garden
Consultant
and Design
www.TownCrier.us
annual scholarship, its Garden Therapy and Junior
Gardener programs and the garden club’s civic projects.
For information, call Margaret Thompson at 508-4739548.
The Greenleaf Garden Club is a member of the National
Garden Clubs, Inc. and the Garden Club Federation of
MA, Inc. For membership information, call Jean DeLuzio,
508-473-7790.
MILFORD ROOFING LLC
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evergreen haven
garden center
New service now available
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Service Fee
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• One Hour home visit
• Diagnose plant diseases, insect and pest issues
• Advise on transplanting and pruning needs
• Measure and photograph beds for design
• Designs for new and existing beds
BOOK YOUR CONSULTATION NOW!
Michelle Schmitt, Designer
508-641-8646 • [email protected]
Competitors
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A Full
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LANDSCAPING
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landscape design • walkways
walls • landscape lighting
Free Estimates
Joshua Harris - Owner
508.966.9500
[email protected] • www.harrislandscapes.com
MAY 1, 2015
Prompt, Courteous Service
to the Metrowest Area for over 30 years!
LANDSCAPE MATERIALS
Great Products , Service & Prices! WE DELIVER
Four varieties of mulch: Hemlock, Pine, Blend & Black
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508-435-5376
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Monday thru Friday 7:30am-4:30pm | Saturday 7:00am-12:00pm | 117 Wood Street, Hopkinton
19
Spring Spruce Up
Cormier Woods Reservation
Work Day
Quality Lawn & Landscaping
Services at competitive Prices!
• Lawn Mowing & Maintenance
ance
• Lawn Fertilization Programs
ms
Call for
• Spring/ Fall Cleanups
a Free
• De-thatching
• Lawn Aeration
Consultation!
• Mulching
• Walkways
Fully Insured
ured
• Fire Pits
• Shrub Pruning
774.573.3162
774.573
3.33162
www.shadesofgreenma.com
Join The Trustees of Reservations (The Trustees) on
Saturday, May 9 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a Volunteer
Work Day at Cormier Woods Reservation, 217 Chapin St.,
Uxbridge. Volunteers will help with clean-up and brush
clearing of trails and a new parking area on Asylum St.,
Menodon, pruning the blueberry patch, and spring cleanup of the existing Visitor Parking area.
This historic and beautiful property was donated to
The Trustees by D. James Cormier. It was opened to the
public in the fall of 2008 and is the first Trustees property
in the Blackstone Valley. Cormier Woods is abutted by
the recently preserved 87-acre Meadow Brook Woods
that includes nine-acre Inman Pond, lush woods, and two
rushing streams in Mendon. Thanks to volunteer efforts
and donations over the past few years, trails have been
created and footbridges have been built to connect these
two properties and local trails systems. Additional trail
connections will be completed in the coming year to link
to Mendon Town Forest across a trail easement recently
granted through Southwick Zoo.
To help us prepare for this event, pre-registration is
required at www.thetrustees.org/volunteer/. Wear long
sleeves and pants, bring water, work gloves, and be
prepared for warm or cold weather. Plan to bring your own
lunch if you’d like to spend the day. Volunteers should meet
next to the barn at 217 Chapin St., Uxbridge before 9 a.m.
for check-in.
Free Family Fun
Fishing Day
After a long, cold winter trapped indoors, an
opportunity to get back out and enjoy nature is
what everyone needs. Save the date for the Family
Fun Fishing Day Saturday, May 2 from 10 a.m. to
1 p.m., rain date Saturday, May 9, at River Bend
Farm in Uxbridge.
People of all ages, abilities and experience are
encouraged to try their hand at fishing along
the Blackstone River and Canal. With a variety
of educational activities, demonstrations on
casting and tying techniques, games and prizes,
the day will be full of fun, learning and friendly
competition.
The event is sponsored in partnership by
the Blackstone River Watershed Association,
Alternatives, the Massachusetts Department
of Conservation and Recreation, and Trout
Unlimited. Fishing rods and reels will be provided
compliments of the Massachusetts Department
of Fisheries and Wildlife, but participants are
welcome to bring their own equipment. Food and
beverages will be offered for sale by the Uxbridge
First Holiday Night Committee.
This is a catch and release fishing experience.
The event is free but preregistration is preferred.
For more information and to register, go to www.
FamilyFunFishingDay.com .
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that ensures necessities, conveniences and amenities are always
available, automatically backed up when the power goes out.
CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE:
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Ask us about 0% financing through Wells Fargo!
20
MAY 1, 2015
Spring Spruce Up
Volunteers Celebrate Earth Day by Cleaning
up the Blackstone
Driving around the Blackstone
Valley, you’ll notice cleaner waterways
from Millbury to Blackstone. This is
a due to the hard efforts of nearly 200
volunteers who pitched in on Sunday,
April 19, as part of the Blackstone
River Watershed Associations’s
(BRWA) annual EarthDay Cleanup.
Teams worked at 36 sites in 10 towns
to remove an immense amount of
trash items from shorelines, streams,
and ponds.
Individuals, families, scout groups,
and community groups throughout
the Blackstone River watershed
participated in the cleanup event. Sites
included Millbury (the Blackstone
River and Broad Meadow Brook),
Grafton (the Quinsigamond River, the
Blackstone River, Hovey Pond, Axtell
Brook, and Silver Lake), Upton (the
West River), Sutton (Lakey Dam),
Northbridge (Meadow Pond, the
Mumford River, and the Blackstone
River), Uxbridge (the Blackstone Canal
and River in and around River Bend
Park, the West River, and the Mumford
River), Mendon (Rock Meadow
Brook), Douglas (the Mumford
River), Hopedale (Hopedale Pond),
and Blackstone (Fox Brook and the
Blackstone River).
The dedicated volunteers removed
210 garbage bags worth of trash.
They also removed tires, household
items, electronics, furniture, car parts,
hazardous waste, and construction
debris. This year’s trash haul included
two toilets, two sinks, a baseboard
hearing element, and bathroom tiles.
Removing this trash keeps
waterways open for fish and wildlife,
and for paddlers and anglers. The
EarthDay Cleanup also improves the
water quality of the Blackstone River
by removing potential sources of
contamination.
The BRWA urges people to dispose
of their general and hazardous garbage
properly. Contact your town’s health
department for information on how to
recycle or dispose of paint, electronics,
lawn or pool chemicals, auto parts, and
remodeling materials.
Following the highly productive
cleanup, volunteers gathered at
River Bend Farm’s Visitor Center in
Uxbridge for pizza and refreshments
provided by the BRWA with generous
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Jim’s Window & Gutter
CLEANING SERVICE
James Laurie
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Cub Scouts from Pack 106 clean up by the Lake Ripple Spillway in
Grafton. Lewis Alderton photo .
support from Hannafords of Uxbridge, Harry’s Famous Pizza of
Uxbridge, Next Step Living, and Homefield Credit Union.
As part of the annual EarthDay Cleanup, the BRWA partnered with
Alternatives Unlimited, Inc. to sponsor a Clean and Green Fair at River
Bend Farm. Volunteers viewed displays and demonstrations about
watershed protection and terracycling. Seedling plantings and children’s
activities were also provided. Next Step Living provided information on
solar energy and more.
FREE ESTIMATES
401-490-1731
[email protected]
Plumbing • Heating • Air Conditioning
Second Nature Landscape
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SAVING MARRIAGES ONE HOME AT A TIME!
• Patios and Walls
• Parking Lot Clean-Ups
• Weekly Property Maintenance
• Plant Design and Installations
• Fertilization Programs
• Pruning & Trimming
For more information, call or email:
• Mulch Installations
Phone: (508) 478-3201
•
Tick
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Email: [email protected]
Website:
BILL 508-868-5226 • BOB 401-663-4962
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If booked by May 15
[email protected]
MAY 1, 2015
21
Spring Spruce Up
Compostology with Dawn
Pettinelli
Want to compost, but don’t know
where to start? Need some help with
that compost pile you’ve been dumping
things into? Curious about compost tea?
Dawn Pettinelli is a lifelong gardener and
Extension Educator in the Department
of Plant Science at the University of
Connecticut will speak to the Blackstone
Valley Gardeners at the Blackstone Valley
United Methodist Church, 61 Linwood
Ave. Whitinsville on May 14 at 7 p.m. She
has held numerous positions in the field
of horticulture, written many published
articles, and has appeared on many
television programs, including the Martha
Stewart Show.
Blackstone Valley Gardeners
Membership is $20 per year (April through
March) or drop in for $5. Contact Pam
Siderewicz to join at [email protected]
or 508-234-4857.
Alfred
Simoneau
Electric
ian
• Roof De-Icing Systems
• Generators
• Service Upgrades
• Lighting Design
• Basement Renovations
• Smoke Detectors
Al Simoneau
Rated best by independent tests!
We use non-toxic biodegradable
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Fast drying foam extraction
Carpets, orientals & fine rugs
Upholstery, fabric & leather
On-site cleaning • Drapes
Pet & odor problems
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22
508-529-4112
508-868-0049
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MAY 1, 2015
School News
Award Winner, Technology and Farewell at School Committee Meeting
By Melissa Orff
Staff Reporter
The Mendon Upton School Committee recognized Nipmuc
Science and Physics teacher Heather Waterman for being chosen as
a Mass Insight Partner in Excellence Award Winner at their meeting
on April 27. Waterman was one of 33 teachers statewide recognized
by the Mass Insight, a non-profit organization that is a leader in
state education reform. Waterman received the award for her
“outstanding work in her Advanced Placement (AP) Physics class.”
“She is everything that is right about teaching and learning,” said
Maruszczak about Waterman when announcing the award. “To get
statewide recognition like this is very much deserved.”
Nipmuc Principal John Clements also gave kudos to Waterman,
stating that her classroom is “the epitome of active and hands-on
learning.”
Technology
Several teachers from Miscoe Hill and Nipmuc Regional High
Schools as well as a number of students came to Monday’s meeting
to speak about how technology is being used every day in teaching
and learning. The cost of implementing technology in the district
has been criticized by some residents and is part of the Proposition
2½ override request put forward by the district.
“We are here tonight to spotlight the amazing things happening
at the middle and high schools in technology,” said Superintendent
of Schools Dr. Joseph Maruszczak. Mendon Upton District
Instructional Technology Specialist Dale Kasal began the
presentation talking about the initiatives that the schools and
district have implemented this year including the iFair held in
March, the bi-monthly technology gatherings that are open to the
whole community, and a new 1:1 learning website. “A lot of little
things that have made a huge difference,” said Kasal.
For the next hour, teachers and students spoke to the School
Committee about their experiences with technology, and how they
are using it in research projects, collaboration with classmates, time
management, and presentations. “The iPad makes a presentation
more interesting…more like you are giving a real presentation,” said
7th grade Miscoe Hill student Dev Gujarathi.
“Really we are just at the tip of the iceberg of the possibilities in
teaching and learning,” said Maruszczak.
In a related matter, Maruszczak publically acknowledged a gift
that the district received from the Bose Corporation in Framingham
due to the efforts of district parent and Bose Community Relations
Director Susan Turner. Maruszczak said that the company donated
500 headphones with built-in microphones to be used in all four
schools.
Farewell
The School Committee also said farewell to one of their own
members as Chris Russo served out his last School Committee
Meeting. Russo’s term was up this year after being on the School
Committee since 2012. He chose not to seek reelection for another
term.
“I don’t know how to say goodbye to the rock star of the School
Committee,” joked Committee Chairperson Leigh Martin.
“We appreciate your hard work and dedication to your
community. Your willingness to push boundaries and stand up for
what you believe in is quite admirable,” said Martin.
Maruszczak also thanked Russo for his service on the School
Committee for the past three years. “One word comes to mind
when I think about Chris – ‘heart’,” said Maruszczak. “I value and
respect that.”
Russo thanked the teachers as well as the Committee Members
and Maruszczak. “You are doing a fantastic job,” he said.
Whitinsville Christian School Third Quarter Honor Roll
Whitinsville Christian School announces the students from Mendon, Milford and Upton who qualified for the Third Quarter Honor Roll.
Grade 6
Honors
Jacquie Cornwell – Milford
Grade 7
High Honors
Selah Harper – Upton
Julia Kilroy – Upton
Liam Smith – Mendon
Olivia Toothman – Upton
Honors
Joshua Ahrens – Milford
Esther Landry – Upton
Grade 8
High Honors
Alex Romine – Upton
Honors
Cameron Cornwell –
Milford
Christina Leduc – Mendon
Grade 9
High Honors
Jacob Belanger – Upton
Shannon Morrill – Mendon
Sarah Moschini – Upton
Cam Richey – Upton
Tatiana Wiersma – Mendon
Honors
Wil Landry – Upton
Jada Leung – Mendon
Brianna Smith – Milford
Grade 10
High Honors
Emily Cutler – Mendon
Jonathan Leduc – Mendon
Honors
Heather Cornwell – Milford
Grade 11
Honors
Devin Morrill – Upton
Registration Open for
STEM Symposium at
Valley Tech
Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational
Technical High School announces
registration is open for the Global STEM
Classroom® Symposium on Friday, May 8
from 8:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. at the school, 65
Pleasant St. Upton. Registration is required
by visiting ValleyTech.k12.ma.us or calling
508-529-7758.
Organized in partnership with the Global
STEM Education Center and funded by
a grant from the New England School
Development Council (NESDEC), the
symposium will explore the development
of the global workforce via collaborative
approaches to STEM education.
Presentations, case studies, and discussions
will be held with leading experts in the fields
of education, business, and technology.
Keynote speakers include Alan November,
founder of November Learning, best-selling
author, and international leader in education
technology. The event’s second keynote
speaker will be JD Chesloff, Executive
Director of the Massachusetts Business
Roundtable and Chair of the Governor’s
STEM Advisory Council’s Executive
Committee.
Symposium participants will learn how to
establish partnerships with the Global STEM
Education Center, a 501(c)(3) charitable
organization that pairs schools with other
countries, corporations, scientists, and
engineers to develop and participate in
STEM projects. Working alongside the
Global STEM Education Center, students
at Valley Tech have engaged in a series of
collaborative projects with high school
students in Arkhangelsk, Russia, and plans
are underway to expand the initiative to
additional countries.
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MAY 1, 2015
23
School News
School Highlights
Mendon-Upton Regional
Compiled by Melissa Orff
DISTRICT: The Miscoe Hill Student Council
and the students and staff of Clough
Elementary School will conduct their
annual Arbor Day program on Friday,
May 1 at 1 p.m. in the front playground at
Clough. The Arbor Day program has been
a special inter-school tradition since 1989,
and over 100 trees have been planted in
Mendon to honor those for whom the trees
have been planted.
MEMORIAL: The fourth grade students
performed their very own “whodunit”
Mystery Dinner Theater titled The Main
Street Mystery on April 17. Guest writer
Steve Krasner came to the school back
in January to instruct the students on
the art of creating a setting, character
development, and creative writing. After
the play was written with input from the
entire grade, students began rehearsing and
making scenery for their play. The fourth
grader’s presented their play to parents
on April 16 in the evening and again to
their fellow classmates on April 17. This
is the fourth year that Krasner has come
to Memorial through a Massachusetts
Cultural Council STARS Residency Grant.
MISCOE: The Miscoe Hill Track and Field
team had an impressive first meet of the
season in Douglas, with both the girls and
the boys having outstanding performances
on both the track and the field. Eighteen
performances met the standards to
qualify for the State Championship meet,
something that usually takes most athletes
the season to achieve. Miscoe Hill had
six qualifiers in the field events. Shamus
Birdsey qualified for States in the long
jump, Dominic Allegrezza in the high
jump, Chris Deschene in the shot put,
Bobby Gately and Shawn Forget in the
Javelin, and Carolyn Cote in the discus.
On the track, there were 12 qualifying
performances with Dominic Allegrezza,
Shamus Birdsey, Abi Murphy and Abbey
Basile qualifying in the 100-meter dash.
Qualifying in the 100 meter hurdles were
Jack Paine and Ben Tremblay. Qualifiers
in the 400 were Meghan Altavilla and
Lucy Hawkins. In the 800 Andrew Floyd
qualified for states and also came within
one second of the school record. The
4x100 boys’ team of Dominic Allegrezza,
Shamus Birdsey, Shawn Forget and Chris
Deschene qualified, as did the boys’ 4x400
relay team of Andrew Floyd, Jared Joyce,
Ben Tremblay and Rickey Faubert, and
the girls 4x400 team of Lucy Hawkins,
Shannon Schrafft, Meghan Altavilla and
Kate Nadolski.
Other members of the teams include:
Selvana Abdelmeshih, Rochelle Akerman,
Coby Asselin, Chris Aurelio, Nolan
Ballard, Cameron Bern, Evan Bulock,
Liam Crisfield, Rory Crisfield, John Dacey,
Dan DeZutter, Cameron Dolbec, Bret
Hackenson, Mackenzie Healey, Sam Hilton,
Ethan Laplante-Dube, Morgan Matellian,
Molly McCarthy, Annette Michel, Devon
Paine, Katie Pollen, Kailyn Rideout,
Sofia Robinson, David Round, Keenan
Segenchuck, Andrew Smith, Hailey Solano,
Celebrating National Library Week with Award-Winning Illustrator/Author
By Melissa Orff
Staff Reporter
Students at Memorial Elementary School
had the chance to celebrate National
Library Week with a visit from awardwinning illustrator and author Diane
deGroat.
An illustrator of over 150 books,
deGroat is also the author of the popular
series “Gilbert the Opossum,” which
includes well known favorites such as
Brand New Pencils, Brand New Books and
Happy Birthday To You, You Belong In A
Zoo. She has also illustrated numerous
books written by Ree Drummond, better
known as The Pioneer Woman.
Thanks to an invitation from Memorial’s
Librarian Karlyn Gale, along with a
donation from the Memorial PTO,
deGroat came to the school on April 15
to meet with all of the students and talk
to them about the process of becoming a
writer and illustrator.
“I want them to learn about how a book
is created from the beginning to the end...
and how it’s not always easy, it’s a process,”
said deGroat before her presentation.
For 45 minutes, the author and
illustrator entertained the students with
pictures and stories of her home in
Amherst, studio, library, and even her
taxidermy collection. “Artists need to know
about anatomy; it helps them to draw
animals in motion,” she said. DeGroat
showed pictures of her extensive collection
of once-live animals that she uses as
inspirations for her illustrations.
Going through the process of an
illustration from rough draft to final copy,
deGroat walked the students though what
an illustration can look like at different
stages.
“Isn’t illustration fun?’ asked deGroat.
“Guess what is not so much fun for me…
writing,” she laughed.
The first story that deGroat wrote herself
in the Gilbert the Opossum series, Roses
are Pink, Your Feet Really Stink, took her
25 rewrites before it was finally printed. “It
wasn’t easy, but I didn’t give up,” she told
the students.
After her presentation, she opened it
up to questions from the students and
answered many about her taxidermy
collection, among others. DeGroat said
that she was inspired to become an
illustrator when she received recognition
for her artwork from her classmates, but
said again writing was something she had
to work at. “When I was your age I wasn’t
a great reader. I had to learn to become a
better reader, because being a better reader
makes you a better writer,” she said.
DeGroat’s visit was one of a number
Award-winning illustrator and author
Diane deGroat visits Memorial
Elementary School on April 15 to help
celebrate National Library Week.
of authors who have come to the school
during National Library Week over the
years. “I like to bring authors to the school
that the kids know so they can put a face
to the name,” said Gale. “The students here
know and love [deGroat’s] books and her
characters.”
According to deGroat, the love between
reader and writer is mutual. “I love
this age,” said deGroat, referring to the
elementary school students. “They are
so creative and there is something so
wholesome about them,” she said.
Sophia Studley, Calvin Todd and Christina
Tong.
Upcoming meets include: May 6 at
Blackstone Millville, May 12 at Douglas,
May 20 at Uxbridge, and May 28 at
Blackstone Millville.
Boys Baseball and Girls Softball had their
first game on April 17 against Uxbridge.
The coach for the boy’s team is Brendan
Rosenau and his team includes: Colby
Bailey, Jacob Beder, Will Bruno, Conner
Christensen, Jackson DesRoches, Joseph
Flanagan, Danny Johnson, Cory McGreal,
Brendan Mathieson, Nick Quinn, Jon
Renk, Matt Richards, Jack Tempesta, John
Verrone, Paul Caron, Andrew Griswold
and Justin Metcalf,
The coach for the girl’s team is Bill
McInnis and his team includes: Mallory
Rogers, Ava Siegel, Emma Hagan, Rachel
Dunlavey, Julia Orff, Faith Caughey,
Casey Costello, Allison Sheperd, Isabella
DeFrancesco, Emma Cote, Justine
Nicholson, Jenny Capalucci, Ellen Dixon,
Kacy Morford, Audrey Gay, Olivia Cutler,
Naomi Pollak and Sophia Cedrone.
COLLEGE NEWS
Arianna Bonito
Arianna Bonito of Mendon has been
accepted into the National Society of
Collegiate Scholars (NSCS), the nation’s only
interdisciplinary honors organization for first
and second year college students, as a result
of her outstanding academic performance
at Montclair State University (MSU) in New
Jersey. Bonito is a graduate of Nipmuc Regional
High School, Class of 2014. She is pursuing
a Bachelor’s Degree in Theatre Studies,
with a double Minor in Musical Theatre and
Creative Writing. She was recently one of
only two MSU Freshman cast in the Peak
Performances production of The Persians by
Aeschylus. She also appeared this month
in a staged reading of Agnus of God by John
Pielmeier, interpreting the role of Mother
Superior.
Caroline K. Martell
Mendon native and Stonehill College student
Caroline K. Martell was inducted into the Alpha
Kappa Delta Honor Society, which recognizes
academic excellence in the study of sociological
theories and research methodologies, as
well as the application of this knowledge to
understanding social problems and social
justice.
Martell is a member of the Class of 2016.
DEANS LIST
The following local students were named to
the deans list for their respective college or
university for the fall 2014 semester.
Biola University, La Mirada, Calif: Lauren
Mazzola, from Upton.
MTC15
24
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MAY 1, 2015
School News
Miscoe Eight Graders Tackle Social
Issues with Art
By Melissa Orff
Staff Reporter
Miscoe Hill School eight-graders
have been tackling some of life’s most
difficult social issues; using creativity
and powerful imagery to get their
message across.
Miscoe Art Teacher Jonathan
Hansen recently introduced his
students to the street artist named
Bansky and his highly political stencil
graffiti. Bansky is an anonymous
artist and it has been thought to
possibly be even a group of artists
rather than just one. Bansky’s works
of political and social commentary
have been featured on streets, walls,
and bridges of cities throughout the
Miscoe Hill eighth-grader Kylie Jordan
world.
tackles
the issue of bullying in Jonathan
After learning about the artist,
Hansen’s
Art class this month. Hansen
Hansen then gave each of his 90
introduced
the students to street artist
eighth-grade students an assignment.
and
political
activist Bansky and asked
To think about social issues that
the
students
to
create a piece of artwork
the world faces today; from gender
that
represented
a particular social issue.
equality, to global warming, to
Contributed
photo.
online social interaction and more.
Teams of students were tasked with
choosing a theme that was important
to them. After themes were chosen, each student then created an original work
of art inspired by Bansky by drawing and cutting out stencils from card stock.
The stencils were then layered to produce a spray paint graffiti technique using
tempera paint and sponges.
What the young artists produced, both in artwork and in statement, had the
11-year district tenured teacher “blown away.” “I was really overtaken by the
student’s work. They all had some kind of deep message in their art; it was really
impressive for being only in 8th grade,” he said.
Hansen said that this was the first time he has assigned this project, but chose
to have the students learn about Bansky because of how the artists speaks about
issues though his artwork. “I love that his work makes a statement,” said Hansen.
“I wanted the kids to think about social issues instead of just making a pretty
picture to hang up on the refrigerator... I wanted something with a message
behind it,” he said about the assignment.
Miscoe eighth-grader Adele Brochu, whose team chose gender equality and
civil rights as a theme, said that the project was a way for them to be creative
while having their own voice. “We were able to share our own opinion, while
showing our thoughts on a very serious topic that our group chose,” she said. “It
proves that we can be responsible, while having the fun of creating our pieces.”
Although it was not a traditional history lesson, Adele said that she learned
something about the past while working on this assignment. “It showed me that
we can get through bad things that happen in life. Creating pieces of artwork [on
these topics] shows that we can get through whatever life throws at us,” she said.
Hansen said that much of what he teaches in his art class is that the world is
a diverse place. “I want them to get a broad world view,” he said. “I am trying to
teach bigger themes about life; especially with art.”
The artwork has been hung in the Miscoe Hill School lobby and according to
Hansen will remain there through the month of May.
Valley Tech R.I.S.E. Above Promotes SelfImage in Boston
On April 8, the Blackstone Valley Tech
SkillsUSA Community Service team
attended the annual Teen Mental Health,
Depression and Suicide Conference in
Milford. Much like the student’s R.I.S.E.
Above campaign, which focuses on the
development and maintenance of a healthy
self-image, the conference’s workshops also
focused on overcoming stigma, intervention,
and promoting wellness as critical ways
to address teen depression. Shown (left
to right) are BVT Health Services juniors
Mikayla Corda of Grafton, Samantha Cella
of Northbridge, and Hannah Licarie of
Millbury. BVT photo
promoted its R.I.S.E. Above campaign at the
Massachusetts State House in Boston. With
a display set up in Nurses’ Hall, the team
spoke with elected officials and State House
tour groups regarding the importance of a
healthy self-image. Lieutenant Governor
Karyn Polito commended their contributions
to the community. Shown (left to right) are
Hannah Licarie of Millbury, Samantha Cella
of Northbridge, Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito, and
Mikayla Corda of Grafton. BVT photo
promoted its R.I.S.E. Above campaign
inside Nurses’ Hall at the Massachusetts
State House. Above campaign’s message
into their own curriculum. The students
were visited by Senator Michael O. Moore
(D-Millbury). Shown (left to right) are Sen.
Moore, Mikayla Corda of Grafton, Samantha
Cella of Northbridge, and Hannah Licarie of
Millbury. BVT photo
Artwork tackling gender equality as part of a project in Jonathan Hansen’s
eighth-grade art classes. Contributed photo.
MAY 1, 2015
25
Sports
BVT Softball Still
Looking to Gel
By Chris Villani
Sports Reporter/Columnist
It’s not hard to see why Blackstone Valley
Tech softball coach Denise Medaglia has not
quite learned the ins and outs of her team
just yet. Through nearly the entire month of
April, the Beavers played just three games
and two of them were lopsided wins. Couple
that with a starting lineup made up almost
entirely of freshmen and sophomores, and
it’s still been a work in progress to figure
things out.
Along the way, there’s bound to be bumps
in the road, like the team’s 12-11 loss to
Worcester Tech on Monday. BVT held an
11-0 lead heading into the 6th, but let it slip
away.
“I am going to take responsibility for
that loss because I don’t know how to
coach these girls just yet,” Medaglia said.
“We simply have not played enough games
for me to know what they are and are not
capable of doing.”
On Monday, sophomore pitcher Emma
Tomas ran out of steam in the 6th and a
confluence of walks and errors allowed the
floodgates to open. “It was a cold day and
it’s hard for a pitcher to go more than five
innings on a day like that,” Medaglia said.
“She was struggling to throw the ball and it
kind of snowballed from there.”
The loss comes after a pair of blowout
wins over Nashoba Valley Tech and Douglas.
Due to a quirky schedule, the Beavers went
nearly two weeks without a game between
the 12-1 victory over Douglas and Monday’s
loss to Worcester.
“The schedule so far has been very
challenging,” Medaglia said. “The other
games we had were not competitive and as
much as we can practice and run through
drills, it does not compare to live action.”
After four games in April, the Beavers will
nearly triple that total in May. “Obviously we
are going to learn from games like we had
against Worcester,” Medaglia said. “We made
those mistakes because we are so young. We
have not had the time to learn to play as a
team.”
There have been plenty of encouraging
signs on the young season. Tomas has stood
out on the mound with the exception of
the sixth inning on Monday and has also
delivered at the plate. The youthful lineup
has produced a whopping 58 runs in three
games, including 35 in the season opener.
Catcher Rachel Arnold, another sophomore,
has been “amazing” according to her head
coach.
“Everyone has hit the ball well so far,”
Medaglia said. “They are very young, but
they will be fine. The majority of my starters
are sophomores and freshmen but I know I
have some very tough, gritty players.”
26
Pitching Key for
Nipmuc Baseball
By Chris Villani
The Nipmuc Regional High School baseball
team is scoring the second fewest runs per
game in the Dual Valley League, but it has
not stopped the Warriors from jumping
out to a 5-2 start on the strength of their
pitching.
“Our pitching has been solid right from the
get go,” head coach Steve Dellarovere said.
“In the two losses we had, we were hurt
by mistakes in the field and we couldn’t
capitalize on chances at the plate. But on
the mound, we have been strong as we
expected to be.”
The trio, Izaiah Wadsworth, Tom Sperino,
and Kyle Nocera, have been dominant at
times and effective throughout the young
season. Wadsworth twirled a complete
game on Monday in Nipmuc’s 5-4 win over
Worcester Doherty. He struck out seven
and held off a three-run rally by Doherty
in the seventh inning. He, Sperino, and
Nocera all carry ERAs under 2.50.
“When they are throwing strikes, it’s tough
for any team to put together a big inning
against them” Dellarovere said. “If they
don’t hurt themselves with walks and let
the defense help them out, they are in
good shape. It’s tough to string together
hits against them. We should be the type
of team that keeps opponents to three or
four runs per game at the most. That should
always give us a chance to win.”
Nipmuc has kept opponents to five runs
or fewer in every game so far this season.
Offensively, the Warriors have done just
enough to win most days. Wadsworth has
been a spark at the top of the order. Jack
Ernst, Pete Schiloski, Sperino, and Nocera
have also delivered consistently.
“It seems like we have had a lot of different
guys step up at different times,” Dellarovere
said. “A nice surprise for us has been Chris
Larsen. He’s a senior who has taken a role
for us in the middle of the order and gotten
some big hits.”
Even with a number of different players
contributing, Nipmuc will look to beef up
the four and a half run per game average.
The Warriors plated 12 runs in a win over
Grafton, but have failed to score more than
five in any other game this year. “I think
guys are trying to get back into the swing of
things,” Dellarovere said.
As for the remedy, the head coach says
he would like to see his team attack the
baseball a little more. “We need to put the
ball in play, early on we have had too many
strikeouts,” he said. “You can’t put pressure
on a defense that way. We need to be
aggressive and put the ball in play because
good things will happen. You find a hole
in the defense or get a hit to drop in and it
snowballs.”
BVT Baseball Rolls
to Unbeaten Start
By Chris Villani
The first seven games have produced
seven victories for the Blackstone
Valley Tech baseball team. Along
the way, they’ve managed to win
in a number of different fashions.
The Beavers have rolled to lopsided
victories over Nashoba, Keefe Tech,
and Tri-County. They’ve pulled out
a couple of tight wins over Martha’s
Vineyard.
And on Monday, they were able to
break open a close game against
Worcester Tech. BVT plated seven
runs in the top of the 7th to pull
away for an 8-0 win. “It was a really
exciting game and up until the last
inning, it seemed like it could be
anyone’s game,” BVT head coach
Scott Felper said. “It looked like it
might be a race to 21 outs but we
caught them on their heels for a
split second and were able to take
advantage. It was just a really good
baseball game.”
Really good baseball is what Valley
Tech has been playing all season.
Monday’s win came in support of
senior pitcher Austin LeBastie, who
has only allowed one earned run
through three games and 21 innings
of work. He struck out 15 Eagles on
Monday, allowing just two hits in the
shutout victory.
“Austin looks good out there and he
feels good out there and it shows,”
Felper said. “Tyler Brodeur has also
been making some strides at the top
of the rotation, so our pitching has
definitely been a strength.”
Hitting has also been something for
the Beavers to brag about. Along with
allowing just 1.7 runs per game, the
lowest total in the Colonial Athletic
League, BVT has plated just south
of 13 runs per contest, good for the
highest average in the CAL. “It’s not
just one guy or a few guys, it’s almost
every guy on the team,” Felper said.
“They all put in the extra work before
and after practice and it’s paying off
for them”
Among the big bats on the Beaver
roster are Colin Fiorentino, Danny
Burdick, Sam Danis, Joe Corsi, and
LeBastie, all of whom carry batting
averages among the top-10 in the
CAL. Burdick sparked the team
against Worcester Tech. His twoout RBI single in the fifth broke
a scoreless tie. Two innings later,
his one-out RBI single made it 2-0
and the floodgates opened shortly
thereafter.
Even with the strong start, Felper
says there are always ways to get
better. “We are working on situational
defense and hitting,” he said. “We
can work on our approach with two
strikes and hitting with two outs. We
know we are never as good or as bad
as it seems, so that keeps us humble.
It’s still early and there’s a long way
to go.”
With numerous veteran presences
in the BVT lineup, the success
continuing seems likely. “I can’t stress
how great the leadership on this team
has been and it shows,” Felper said.
“They know we need to win each
inning and win each pitch. As long as
we keep doing that, it’ll be a fun year.”
SPORTS FLASH
By Chris Villani
Former BVT Star
Picard Injured on
Softball Field
Former Blackstone Valley Tech and current St.
Joseph’s University softball star Bella Picard
suffered an injury earlier this month when she
slid head first into second base and suffered a
broken neck. The injury, while serious, could
have been much worse. Picard’s vertebrae did
not fracture all the way through. According to a
post on her Facebook page, her spine was never
unstable.
Picard spent five days at New York Presbyterian
Columbia University Hospital where she
suffered a set back when she had trouble
walking on her right leg and using her right
arm, according to her Facebook page. After
leaving the hospital, she began the rehabilitation
process.
Many have voiced their support for Picard on
social media. The Facebook posts providing
updates on her progress have received hundreds
Bella Picard
of likes and dozens of comments offering
prayers and well wishes. The Twitter account
for Assabet Valley Tech softball tweeted “Our
thoughts and prayers go out to former BVT star
Bella Picard who broke her neck diving into
second base. One of the best we ever faced.”
Picard chose St. Joe’s over Fordham and Florida.
As a freshman last season, she lead all Hawks’
rookies in hitting with a .279 average and
finished tied for the top fielding percentage in
the nation at 1.000 with 23 put outs and two
assists. This year, she had started all 31 games
prior to the injury and was third on the team in
hitting at .353.
Those numbers seem modest when compared
to how dominant Picard was in high school.
As a junior, she lead the nation with an .877
batting average and hit 10 home runs in helping
Valley Tech to an appearance in the district
tournament.
Picard is also no stranger to beating the odds.
A converted soccer player, she had only started
playing softball three years prior to being the
best high school hitter in America. She also
became one of the few Central Mass Division
3 athletes to earn a Division 1 collegiate
scholarship.
“My freshman year when I made the varsity
team, I told some of my friends and they
laughed it off like ‘oh yeah, D3 tech school,
nothing to brag about,’” Picard told the Town
Crier back in 2013 after signing her Letter of
Intent to play at St. Joe’s. “They said a D1 athlete
will not walk the halls of BVT, which is why I
am so pumped about it. I am taking pride in it,
it’s good to be able to prove people wrong.”
MAY 1, 2015
Sports
Jim Grant Golf Tournament
Earning Their
Black Belts
Jim Grant’s Golf Tournament to benefit the Mendon Upton
School System and Mendon Upton Youth Basketball program
will be held Monday May 18 at Hopedale Country Club. The
Florida Style Scramble tournament begins with a shotgun start
at 9 a.m. Registration includes the greens fee, cart, continental
breakfast, lunch and prizes. To register visit, https://secure.
perfectgolfevent.com/eventweb/329/index.php or contact Grant
at [email protected], 508-473-6109 or 774-573-3140.
If you cannot participate and would like to sponsor a hole
sign, donate to the fundraiser or contribute a raffle item in your
name / business, please let Grant know ASAP.
All donations will go to benefit the Mendon/Upton Schools
and the youth basketball program of the two towns.
Three local boys recently
earned their Black Belts at the
Bellingham Family Karate.
Shown in the photo from left to
right are: Andrew Page, age 13
of Upton, Tommy Rowe, age
12 of Bellingham and Shamus
Birdsey, age 13 of Upton with
Sensei Bill Rowe. The picture
hanging behind the boys is of
Nick Cerio, Grandmaster of
their discipline. The black belt
ceremony was held on April 4
and lasted five hours. Birdsey
Family photo
Taking the fear out of Dentistry
one smile at a time.
Bresciani Remembered By Family, Friends, & the Sox
years later. And, of
course, through three
World Series wins. But
he never let go of his
roots.
“He provided so
many opportunities for
the family members
and kids to go to
ballgames at Fenway,”
Dick’s first cousin,
Mike Bresciani said.
“He would always
bring the World
Series rings to family
functions. The kids in
the family would ask
whether he was coming Dick Bresciani Red Sox photo
because he would bring
the rings.”
Losing his job at UMass had another, wonderful side
effect. Dick and Joanne both attended UMass, but they
didn’t meet until a 10-year reunion. They started dating
during the summers when Dick was working for the
Cape League and Joanne, a school teacher, had some
time off. But coming back to Boston, where Joanne was
teaching, allowed them to spend more time together.
They started dating in 1972, the year Dick began
working for the Red Sox. They were married two years
later. “Who knows what would have happened if Dick
had stayed at UMass,” Joanne said.
In addition to his love for baseball and his loyalty
to his hometown, Dick Bresciani is perhaps best
remembered for his willingness to help out sports
writers and others in the business. Whether it was doing
a favor for a writer or bringing the World Series ring to
a family reunion, by all accounts he thought of others
before himself. His savant-like memory for stats came
in handy when he’d constantly ask about his family
member’s children and how their teams were doing.
This spring is the first one in 42 years when Dick
Bresciani will not be at Fenway Park, but he will be
there in spirit. On April 14, the Red Sox renamed the
Fenway press box, “The Bresh Box” in his honor.
“I felt so proud, I knew it was something that was
so well deserved and I know he would have been so
proud,” Joanne said. “It’s pretty cool, and such an honor.
He loved going to work, there was never a day he didn’t
enjoy going to work. It was amazing.”
A fitting end for a long and successful journey
that may not have gone exactly as planned, but most
definitely worked out in the end. “He couldn’t hit a
curveball,” Chinappi said of his longtime friend. “But he
still made it to the majors, and touched a lot of people’s
lives along the way.”
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By Chris Villani
It’s somewhat cliché to say that life has a funny way of
working itself out. But that expression could not have
been more appropriate in the case of Dick Bresciani.
When his position as assistant sports information
director was cut at UMass, there was a groundswell of
support from staff and alumni to get him his job back.
It didn’t work out, but what ended up happening turned
out to be even better.
Bresciani ended up working for the Red Sox for 42
years in the public relations office until he passed away
in November at the age of 76. But long before he arrived
at Fenway Park, “Bresh” was a teenage kid sitting in
the bleachers at Milford Town Park with a passion for
baseball statistics and a memory to match that passion.
“We used to fire questions at him and this young
fellow knew the batting averages of every player you
could think of, you could not fool him,” longtime
Milford baseball coach Charlie Espanet said. “He was a
baseball genius. He enjoyed playing sports, but his mind
was what was important.”
Bresciani graduated from Hopedale High School and
was reared on baseball scoring by longtime Milford
Daily News reporter Stanley Jones. “Stanley was
wonderful to him, he taught Dick how to score a game
in a way that made it so you could go back and recreate
every play,” Joanne Bresciani, Dick’s widow, said. “Dick
kept all of the statistics and Stanley was really, really
helpful. Dick loved working with him.”
Bresciani kept score at Fino Field for the Milford
Legion and went on to work for the Cape League.
Eventually, his love for sports and head for numbers
landed him the position at UMass. “He loved baseball
and having him was great for us because he was young
and energetic, you couldn’t believe the energy he put
into everything he did,” then-UMass baseball coach
Dick Bergquist said. “He was great about making sure
our players were recognized in the local papers and he
was there with us when we went to the College World
Series in 1969.”
The catcher on that 1969 team was Milford High
graduate Tony Chinappi. He was also one of the
people who tried to get Bresciani his job back when
the position was cut in 1972. “We as alumni all voiced
our opinions to no avail,” Chinappi said. “There was a
movement to reinstate him or get him a new position.
When he got the job with the Red Sox, we called off the
dogs.”
UMass’ loss would be Fenway’s gain. Bresciani
worked for the team through four decades doing
essentially what he used to do in the bleachers at Town
Park, keep and disseminate statistics. Bresciani was
there through 1975 and Fisk in Game 6 and the equally
memorable and much more heartbreaking Game 6 11
27
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CPR Etc.
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PERIODONTIST NOW ON STAFF: Sarah D. Shih, DDS, MS, DMSc
113 Main St., Upton Plaza • 508-529-4591
OBITUARY
◆ MENDON ATM from front page
also have to approve the school override at their Annual Town
Meeting and Election.
A number of other articles will be determined on May 1
including Article 4, which is the new $15.9 million Fiscal
Year 2016 budget, as well as Article 13, which is requesting up
to $180,000 in order to pay Showtime Entertainment’s legal
expenses.
Article 17 is requesting $35,000 for Town Hall New
Equipment, which will include upgrades to the server and
repairing the phone system.
Three articles concern Community Preservation Act funding
projects. Article 19 is requesting $5,000 of CPA monies to
determine an estimate for various repairs at the Old Cemetery
on Providence St. and Article 20 is seeking $97,283 to fund the
annual costs of the Fino Property. And Article 21, if approved,
will fund a feasibility study for the Paddock/D’Alessandro
property at 52 Providence St. The study will be an on-theground assessment as to what might be done on the 69 acre
property, which could include sports fields, affordable housing,
or open space; one acre of the property is also planned for
expansion of the Senior Center.
Article 22, if passed, will approve a Tax Incentive agreement
for D.C. Bates, a newly constructed business to be built on
Morrison Dr. The TIF agreement will be over a 10-year period
with a 100 percent exemption on the businesses new projected
taxes to eventually be scaled down to five percent; Mendon will
continue to collect all of the existing real estate taxes on the
property totaling $8,000.
Other articles on the warrant are considered standard and
therefore voted on each year. Article 6 is seeking $10,000 for
the town’s annual update valuation. Articles 7, 8, 9, and 10
are requesting revolving funds be set up for the Taft Public
Library, the Planning Board, the Highway Department and
the Conservation Commission, respectively. A revolving fund
is set up by the town in an effort to collect fees to support that
organization or department and must be voted on each year.
Classifieds
Classified Ads are $25 for 25 Words, 25¢ for each additional word.
Must be prepaid and in writing. Email: [email protected]
Snailmail: 48 Mechanic Street, Upton, Ma 01568
SANDRA’S CLEANING SERVICES. I have local references
from happy customers who have been using my services for
more than 15 years. I’m available now! Call 508-282-0545.
John M. Dawson
WHITINSVILLE-John M. Dawson, 22, was
killed in action Wednesday, April 8, 2015 while on
an escort mission in Jalalabad, Afghanistan. He
is survived by his parents, Michael and Rhonda
(Baxendale) Dawson, and a sister, Ashley Dawson,
of Whitinsville. Also, several aunts and uncles;
Glenn and Cathy Dawson of Charlestown, Jean
and Peter Williams of Eastham, Janet and Anthony
Buscemi of Hudson, Thomas Dawson, James and
Cathy Dawson, all of Maynard; and many cousins.
Cpl. Dawson was born in Worcester, June 21,
1992. He was a 2010 graduate of Blackstone Valley
Vocational Technical High School in Upton, and
he attended the Massachusetts Maritime Academy
and Quinsigamond Community College, before
enlisting in the Army in 2012. He took Basic
Training at Fort Sill, Okla., and attended Combat
Medic School at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio,
before being assigned to Unit HHT, 1st Squadron,
33rd Calvary Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team
at Fort Campbell, Campbell, Ky. He was deployed
to Afghanistan in January.
Cpl.Dawson’s military awards include the Bronze
Star, Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal
with V Device, the Army Good Conduct Medal,
National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan
Campaign Medal, the Combat Action Badge, and
numerous other awards.
While at Valley Tech, Cpl. Dawson was an Honor
Student in the electrical program, and worked at
Coghlin Electrical Contractors in Worcester, as a
Co-Op student. He was a member of the National
Honor Society, Skills USA, and the varsity soccer
team. He was a member of Saint Patrick’s Church
in Whitinsville where he was actively involved
in Young Neighbors in Action. He was an avid
bicyclist, and rode with the 10th Gear Christian
Bicycle Group. As a youth, he played in the
Northbridge Youth Soccer League.
Cpl. Dawson’s Funeral, with full military honors
was Monday, April 20 at St. Gabriel’s Church,
Upton, followed by burial in Pine Grove Cemetery,
Whitinsville.
Memorial donations may be made to the USO,
2111 Wilson Blvd, Suite 1200, Arlington, VA,
22201, with the notation that the contribution is in
memory of Cpl. John M. Dawson.
Condolences may be offered at www.
carrfuneralhome.com
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508-533-8661
70 Main Street • Medway
2 South Maple Street • Bellingham
1 Hastings Street • Mendon
Member FDIC, Member SIF
28
Agency:
Client:
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Charles River Bank
CRB19051
CRB19051_Younique_TownCrier
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Media:
Town Crier
UPTON-MENDON
TOWN
CRIER
Size:
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10.25” x 7.5”
BW
7/2013
Request for PDF to be put in
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MAY 1, 2015
AE/AC:
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Holding Tank
Blackstone Valley Tech Secures New Grants
◆ UPTON ELECTION from front page
Trustees’ seats for three years; Thomas
Davidson for Planning Board for
five years; Rena Richard for Housing
Authority for five years; and Kenneth
Glowacki for Board of Commissioner
of Trust Funds for three years. Robert
Richard is running for the Cemetery
Commission’s three year seat; Glenn
Fowler for the Cemetery Commission’s
one year seat; and newcomer Stephen
Matellian is running for the vacant
Finance Committee’s two year seat.
The three year seat for the Assessor
of Taxes seat has no candidate;
incumbent Charles Marsden did not
seek re-election.
Upton’s Town Election polls will be
open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Nipmuc
Regional High School.
Submitted by Andrew Morrison
Valley Tech
Blackstone Valley Tech has announced the receipt of five additional
grants totaling roughly $150,000.
While the school regularly pursues alternative sources of nontax
dollars, Superintendent-Director Dr. Michael Fitzpatrick said
that those efforts have been “ramped up” in response to difficult
economic conditions.
“Selective competitive grants play a vital role in securing technology
and advancing initiatives without asking local stakeholders to foot
the bill,” Fitzpatrick said. “As voters in upcoming town meetings
will see, grants and other alternative revenue sources have enabled
Valley Tech to present a budget that protects and advances a
quality education, yet limits next year’s operational increase to 1.65
percent.”
The largest of the recent grants was awarded for Fiscal Year 2016
by the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center Equipment and Supplies
Grant Program. The $90,119 grant will be used to upgrade careertraining equipment and technology, including the purchase of a
cutting-edge Computer Numerical Control (CNC) milling machine
and laptops in the new Engineering Technology laboratory, as well
as robotic building kits to be used by several shops.
A $25,000 award from the SkillsUSA/Lowe’s 2015 Campus
Improvement Grant Program will help address the growing demand
for Valley Tech seating by establishing a Construction Technologies
satellite campus. Working with Alternatives Unlimited, Inc., Valley
Tech will renovate several structures on the nonprofit’s Northbridge
property to create vocational classroom space and a construction
barn in which Construction Technology students can work on large
scale projects. The satellite campus will open up valuable space
for academic classrooms on Valley Tech’s Upton campus, which
currently operates at absolute capacity.
Valley Tech’s integration of academic and vocational technical
education will also benefit from the recent awards. Two grants
totaling $10,000 from the New England School Development
Council and the Biogen Idec Foundation/Cambridge Community
Foundation will enhance the school’s ongoing partnership with
the Global STEM Education Center, and an $11,425 Vocational
Leadership grant for improved MCAS performance was awarded
by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary
Education.
DINING GUIDE
Where are
YOU
Eating
Tonight?
Open for the Season • Patio is Open for Lunch & Dinner
New England Steak
& Seafood Restaurant
Make Your Mother’s Day Reservations NOW!
9 SEATING TIMES AVAILABLE:
Every issue of The
Town Crier will have
a Dining Guide so
readers can quickly
and easily learn about
the restaurants in
the area and decide
where they would like
to dine out tonight!
12:00 noon 2:30 pm
12:30 pm 3:00 pm
1:00 pm
3:30pm
Please contact
our Sales
Department
for Private
Functions
Lunch & Dinner
Hours:
Tuesday - Saturday
11:30am - 9pm
Sunday
12pm - 8pm
5:00 pm
5:30 pm
6:00 pm
Route 16, Mendon • 508-473-5079
www.nesteakandseafood.com
Mother’s Day Sunday Dinner
Sunday, May 10th, 2015 | 12 noon - 8 pm
Appetizers
Reservations recommended
Hummus and Tabouli
$8.99
Blue Point Oysters
on the 1/2 shell
$2.00 each
Fried Calamari & Shrimp $9.99
Tuscan Spinach
Artichoke Dip
$8.99
Shrimp and Lobster
Cocktail
$12.99
Chicken Parmesan Egg Rolls $8.99
For advertising
informatiuon contact:
Lori Tate:
508-529-0301
Salads
House or Caesar
$5.99
Hilltop House
$9.99
Lobster Cob Salad
$13.99
Strawberry Vinaigrette Salad $7.99
Colette Rooney:
508-922-9674
Entrees
Rack of Lamb
Prime Rib
Surf and Turf
Seafood Risotto
Seared Orange
Duck Breast
Braised Short Rib
14 oz Sirloin Au Poive
Hawaiian Mahi Mahi
Chicken Saltimbocca
Mediterranean
Vegetable Saute
Blackened Salmon
$19.99
$18.99
$19.99
$16.99
$15.99
$14.99
$18.99
Before placing your order, please inform your server if anyone in your party has a food allergy.
For reservations
call AnnMarie @ 508-839-1945 ext 222
Sue Odell:
508-954-8148
(Please specify if you need a highchair, wheelchair, number of adults & children)
42 Magill Drive, Grafton | www.Highfieldsgolfcc.com
Email: [email protected]
Mother’s Day Buffet
Upton House of Pizza
Sunday May 10 • 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
FREE
DELIVERY
ALL DAY
Salads • Pizza • Subs • Calzones • Spaghetti
Shells • Ravioli • Lasagna • Broasted Chicken
$19.95 adults • $9.95 children
508.529.6666
CHECK OUT OUR NEW WEBSITE!
www.uptonpizza.com
Min. Order $10
6 Milford St.
Upton Center
on the Upton Common
(coupons also available online)
Join us for Buffet Brunch the ﬁrst Sunday of Every Month
Next First Sunday Brunch Date: May 3
49 Cedar Street, Milford • 508-478-7800
CrystalRoomMA.com
[email protected]
MAY 1, 2015
$24.99
$20.99
$23.99
mkt. price
$23.99
Coupons can be used for pick-up only
OPEN: 7 Days a Week
11 am - 10 pm
Upton House Of Pizza Coupon
10% OFF
LUNCHTIME
$3 OFF
ANY ORDER
2 LARGE
1 TOPPING
PIZZA
2 LARGE
CHEESE PIZZA
2 Liter Soda
$19.95+tax
$19.95+tax
11-3
$22 or more
Expires JULY 3, 2015
1 Coupon/visit w/coupon.
Cannot Be Combined
Cannot Be Combined
Cannot Be Combined
Cannot Be Combined
29
TAFT PUBLIC
LIBRARY
MYSTERY PHOTO FOR MAY 1
Main St, Mendon
508-473-3259
Tu, Wed 10-7 • Thurs 3-7 • Fri 12-5
• Sat 9-12 • Closed Sun & Mon
WHO? WHAT? WHY?
WHERE? WHEN?
Email your answer to
TownCrierEditor@
gmail.com or call 508-5297794 ext. 5
Preschool Storytime
Preschool Storytime is on Thursdays at Upton
Town Library at 10:30 a.m. Several picture
books are read aloud followed by a themerelated activity or craft. Our upcoming themes
for May include seahorses, playgrounds, and
aliens. Some storytimes will include special
guests conducting unique storytimes such as
yoga and bilinugal storytimes; others may even
be held outside if (hopefully) spring weather
permits! Drop-ins are always welcome, but
please call or email at least a day in advance to
confirm storytime location. For any questions,
contact Upton Town Library at 508-529-6272 or
email Miss Nicole at nicole.uptonlibrary@gmail.
com.
UPTON TOWN
LIBRARY
2 Main St, Upton
508-529-6272
Tu, Wed, Th 10-8 • Fri, Sat 9-2
Sun & Mon closed
Submitted by Nicole Claire,
Children’s Librarian and Matthew Bachtold,
Library Director
Library Design Project
The library has completed a Building
Program. This document describes all the
spaces, services and furnishings that an
adequate library would offer the community.
Over the summer, we’ll be hiring an architect
to turn our list into a floorplan. You can view
the building program and a summary at our
planning website: http://sites.google.com/site/
uptonlibraryplanning
Library Booksale
Its time for the Spring Booksale! The Friends
of the Upton Town Library will be offering
hardcovers, paperbacks, children’s books, DVDs,
audiobooks and more on the library lawn on
Saturday, May 16, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Raindate
is Sunday, May 17. Watch the Friends of Upton
Library facebook page for the latest information.
Don’t forget your library tote bag – fill it up for
$20!
Audiobooks
Upton Library has moved its audiobooks to a
new bookshelf in the library for easier browsing
and wider selection. We collect audiobooks
in two different formats: standard CDs and
compressed MP3 CDs. The MP3 CDs play just
like a regular disc in your CD player, but hold
up to 10 times as much content. MP3 CDs are
great for your commute, because you don’t have
to swap discs as often. We add new release titles
to our collection every month, so take a look at
the new audiobook display, or request a specific
title through interlibrary loan.
Summer Reading 2015 –Every Hero Has A
Story!
Be on the lookout for Upton Town Library’s
Summer Reading Program, which is designed
for children and teens of all ages. The theme
this summer is Every Hero Has A Story, which
will be held between June 23 and August 8,
registration begins on June 16. This eight-week
program will include two weeks of a particular
heroic theme, which will include Greek Gods
and Goddesses, Superheroes, Animal Heroes,
and Everyday Heroes. Remember to register to
receive all of our summer library happenings
and check out our Facebook page: Summer at
Upton Town Library.
TinyTots Storytime
Making connections—whether with books,
music, or people—is the foundation of storytime
at Upton Town Library. TinyTots (aka Baby)
Storytime is ideal for acquainting babies,
toddlers, and young children with the library,
literature, language and music, as well as for
them to bond with their parents and caregivers
and meet new friends. TinyTots lasts about
20 minutes followed by a ‘stay-and-play’ open
playtime session and book browsing period.
Registration is requested, but drop-ins are
always welcome. Sessions are held on Friday
mornings at 10:30 a.m. unless noted otherwise.
Children’s and Young Adult Programs on
Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
Upton Town Library’ children’s and young
adult happenings are all on social media! Find
all of our t(w)een programs at Upton Teens
on both Twitter and Instagram, and we have
two Facebook pages: Storytime at Upton Town
Library for children, and T-Create: Upton
Library Teens and Tweens for young adults.
Follow us for all our updates!
The Goldfinch – Library Book Discussion
The library supports a monthly book
discussion group, which alternates between
fiction and non-fiction titles. All titles are
selected by the members, and copies of the book
are available at the Library. Meetings are held
from 7 to 8 p.m. on the last Wednesday of each
month at Memorial Elementary School.
Join us on May 27 to discuss The Goldfinch by
Donna Tartt, a novel of loss and obsession,
survival and self-invention, and the enormous
power of art.
Need More Information?
For the latest information about Upton Town
Library, visit our website at uptonlibrary.org or
contact Upton Town Library at 508-529-6272.
Mother’s Day Gift Certificates
FOR A MASSAGE!
If Momma ain’t happy ...
Ain’t nobody happy!
Therapeutic • Relaxation • Deep Tissue
Cranio Sacral • Sports Injury
Pregnancy Massage
LaRose Muscular Therapy
Milford Medical Center
114 Water St., Milford
508-478-0082
www.larosemusculartherapy.com
30
Submitted by Tara Windsor, Children’s Librarian
and Andrew Jenrich, Library Director
Adult Book Club
All book club meetings are on the first
Monday of the month at 7 p.m. New members
are always welcome to join. Please stop in or call
the library for more information or to request a
copy of the selected book. Upcoming book club
selections are:
May’s discussion: The Light Between Oceans by
M.L. Stedman; June’s discussion: The Orphan
Train by Christina Baker Kline
Summer books to be discussed on September
14: To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee and Big
Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
Friends of the Library
The Friends of the Taft Public Library meet at
5:30 p.m. on the last Friday of each month upstairs
in the Library. Come and join in on the fun and
help them strengthen the Library›s connection
with the community. The Friends will meet on
Friday, May 29. For more information email the
Friends at [email protected].
Donate to the Friends
The Friends of the Taft Public Library are
asking for your support for the library relocation
project by making a tax-deductible donation to
the Taft Library Relocation Fund. Double your
donation again if your employer has a Matching
Gift Program!
Recognitions are given for: donations of $100
to $1,000 a listing on the Donor Tree; donations
of $1,000 a listing on the Donor Wall; and honor
oved ones by naming a space, collection, or
furniture item in recognition of your gift.
Make checks payable to the Taft Library
Relocation Fund. Mail to: Friends of the Taft
Library, P.O. Box 35, Mendon, MA 01756. Visit
the library website for a donation form and more
information.
Memorial Day Bake Sale
The Friends of the Library will be holding
their Annual Memorial Day Bake Sale during the
parade on Monday, May 25. If you would like to
donate baked goods, please email the Friends at
[email protected].
AvaHour
The Friends will also be hosting an AvaHour at
the Senior Center on Thursday, May 28 from 7 to
9 p.m. to benefit the Library Relocation Project. Be
pampered with Ava Anderson’s non-toxic line of
products and go home with some health-changing
information. For more information email the
Friends at [email protected].
Friends Annual Book and Bake Sale
The Friends will be holding their annual used
book sale from 9a.m.to 3 p.m. on Saturday, June
6 in the library’s back parking. Stock up for your
Summer Reading pleasure! Book donations are
appreciated and can be dropped off at the library
between May 18 and June 1. Questions about
book donations, call the library, 508-473-3259.
The Friends will also be accepting baked good
donations. If you would like to donate baked
goods for the event, please email the Friends at
the address above.
Taft Public Library Logo Items for Sale
The Friends of the Taft Library are selling
commemorative Taft tote bags for $8 and Taft
ornaments for $15 with the proceeds benefiting
the Taft Library Relocation Project. Each
ornament and tote bag sports a design created by
Mendon resident Sorcha DeFrancesco featuring
an image of the current Taft Library.
Shop Amazon Smile and Support the Library
Help The Friends of the Taft Public Library
by using the this link http://smile.amazon.com/
ch/20-8954886 at Amazon which will donate
Amazon will donate 0.5 percent of your purchase
price to the Taft Public Library.
Taft Children’s News- May 2015
May Story Times
Spring into the library. Story time is for
children ages two and up and sessions are on
Tuesday and Wednesday mornings at 10:30 a.m.
Story time will include picture books, rhymes,
songs, a craft, and so much more.
May 5 and 6: Spring has Sprung! Stories about
all things spring.
May 13: There is Magic in the Air: Stories about
gnomes and fairies. There is no story time on
Tuesday May 12.
May 19 and 20: Tweet! Stories about birds.
May 26 and 27: Let’s Get Growing: Stories about
gardening.
No registration is required. The last Story
Time will be on May 27 until the fall. Check
out our summer reading program that will have
many performers, activities, and story times.
Registration begins on June 16.
Itty Bitty Story Time
Itty Bitty Story time, on Tuesdays at 9:45 a.m.,
is designed for our youngest patrons: birth to
3 years old and includes stories, songs, musical
instruments, action rhymes, finger plays, and a
whole lot more to keep the little ones engaged
and entertained! This program is a great way
to introduce the young child in your life to the
library. No registration is required..
There is no Itty Bitty story time on Tuesday
May 12 and the last one this spring will be May
26 until the fall.
Tutors with Tails
The Tutors with Tails program is for any child
with a second grade reading level or better that
would like to practice reading. Each child will be
paired up with a dog and will read to them for
15 minutes. The sessions are held at the library
on the last Monday of each month unless it is
a holiday. There is no cost for this program.
Registration is required and will be limited to
12 participants. Please call the library at 508473-3259 for information and to register for
upcoming sessions.
Book Clubs
Books for these clubs are available at the
Children’s Desk; discussions take place in the
Genealogy Room. For more information or to
sign up contact Tara Windsor at 508-473-3259.
Fizz Boom Read Book Club
Join us for our book club geared for beginning
and developing reader, age six to nine. The
45-minute book club will include a book
discussion, drawing an illustration, writing a
review, a craft, or even a game. Welcome to the
Bed & Biscuit by Joan Carris will be discussed on
Wednesday, May 29 at 5 p.m.
Spark Reading Book Club
If you are between the ages of 8-12 and love
to talk books, our Spark Book Club might be for
you! Moon Over Manifest by Clare Vanderpool
will be discussed on Thursday, May 28 at 5 p.m.
Princess Book Club
On Wednesday, May 13 the Taft Library will
be hosting a special princess book club to discuss
The Very Little Princess by Marion Dane Bauer
and enjoy royal refreshments and a regal craft.
Feel free to wear your favorite princess costume
or simply put on your tiara. Registration is
required and limited to 12.
Teen News
Teen Book Club
Join us for Teen Book Club for readers ages 12
and up. Discussions with pizza and refreshments
take place in the Genealogy Room. I’ll Be There
by Holly Goldberg Sloan, a gripping story that
follows the intersecting lives of two teenagers,
Emily Bell and Sam Border, will be discussed
on Friday, May 15 at 5 p.m. Copies of I’ll Be
There can be picked up at either desk. If you’re
interested in joining book club and want more
information, please stop by the library or call us
at 508-473-3259. Ask for Andrew Jenrich.
Summer Reading Volunteer Meeting
This summer we need the help of teens ages
12 and up. If you are interested, please join us on
Wednesday, June 10 at 5 p.m. to find out more
about volunteering this summer at the library.
Whether you have three or 30 hours to volunteer
this summer, we need your help. Bring your
calendars. Pizza and refreshments will be served.
The meeting should last about one hour. If you
have any questions, please contact Tara at 508473-3259. If you are unable to make the meeting,
feel free to stop by the library or give the library a
call to find out how you can help.
Teen Advisory Group (TAG)
Young Adults, age 12 and up are welcome
to join TAG, a group that meets with Andrew
Jenrich and Tara Windsor several times each year
to discuss what’s going on at the library and to
select new materials for addition to the Young
Adult collection. Our next meeting will be in
conjunction with the summer reading volunteer
meeting on Wednesday, June 10 at 5 p.m.
We will be planning a Teen shopping trip to
Barnes and Noble in July. Please contact either
Andrew or Tara for more information at 508473-3259.
MAY 1, 2015
PDG Deepa Willingham Keynote
Speaker for Rotary
Rotary District 7910
District Governor Mary
Valentine Callahan
announced that Deepa
Willingham, Past District
Governor (PDG) of Rotary
District 5240 in California,
will represent Rotary
International President
Gary C.K. Huang at the
2015 Rotary District
Conference at the Holiday
Inn Marlborough on May
15-17.
Currently residing in
Solvang, Calif., Willingham
Deepa Willingham
is a naturalized citizen of
the United States, born
and brought up in Calcutta, India, where she obtained her education
through undergraduate school and was taught by Mother Teresa. She
earned graduate degrees in the U.S., establishing a career as a hospital
Administrative Director of Ancillary Services.
Willingham is an active Rotarian and served as the District Governor
for Rotary District 5240 in 2010-2011. She is the Past President of the
Rotary Club of Santa Ynez Valley, Calif. being named as the Rotarian-ofthe-Year during her year as President and being honored by many other
humanitarian awards from both the Rotary and non-Rotary world. She
has participated in many local and international projects - built Pisos
(cement floors) in Mexico; participated in National Polio Immunization
Day in India; supported girls’ education in the Philippines; escorted
U.S. high school children for humanitarian educational trips to India,
and continues to serve as a keynote speaker at many different venues,
including the 100-year Rotary International Convention in Birmingham,
England. Willingham is the founder of PACE Universal, a U.S. literacy
and holistic village rehabilitation. It is her aspiration to make the first
PACE Learning Center be a model for duplication around the world.
She and her Rotarian husband Richard, who is an independent
contractor in the oil business in Houston, have been married for 31
years; their daughter Reena is an independent business owner and was
instrumental in the formation of the community-based Rotaract (Rotary
for young adults) Club of Santa Barbara, Calif. The family lives by the
principles of giving back to society – a philosophy she learned from her
parents and Mother Teresa.
MAY 1, 2015
Murphy Insurance Agency Renews 5-Star Status
The D. Francis Murphy Insurance Agency, Inc.,
with offices in Bolton, Groton, Harvard, Hudson,
Marlboro, Mendon and Medway, renewed their
Five Star Agency Designation after going through
an intensive review process. The Massachusetts
Association of Insurance Agents (MAIA)
announced that they have been a Five Star Agency
since 1999.
MAIA awards the Five Star Agency Designation
to independent agencies that go through a vigorous
review based on five imperatives: Customer Focus,
Management/Leadership Excellence, Human
Resource Excellence, Product & Process Excellence
and Future Success Initiatives. Upon earning a
qualifying score, an agency becomes a Five Star
Agency Designee.
Dennis Murphy, III, Vice President, noted, “It is
rewarding to see that after many years of being a
Five Star Agency Designee, our Agency continues
to demonstrate such a high level of excellence. We
have worked hard and have an outstanding staff
that is dedicated to our customers’ and our Agency’s
success”.
Michael Murphy, President, added “Our motto
is ‘insurance made simple’; we have a great team
that can educate our clients and speak in terms
they understand. We continually strive to make our
processes as efficient and effective as possible, and
we concentrate on doing what is best and right the
first time around. Earning the Five Star Designation
and going through the process confirms we are on
the right track and also sets a road map for us to
follow to continue to work on getting better.”
D. Francis Murphy Insurance Agency, Inc. is one
of 28 Independent Agencies in Massachusetts and
Rhode Island to have earned the coveted Five Star
Agency Designation.
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MAY 1, 2015

UTC 15.05.01

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