UTC 15.05.01
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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 POSTAL PATRON WS CAR-RT-SORT UPTON, MA 01568 PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #35 UPTON, MA 01568 The Upton & Mendon Town Crier Town Crier Publications, Inc. 48 Mechanic Street 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 Staff Reporter/Columnist 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 MENDON ATM p 28 FEEL GREAT! LOOK GREAT! Lose 20-40 lbs in 40 Days ... Guaranteed! d! BE YOUR BEST THIS SUMMER! No Hunger! No Exercise! No Shots! No Hormones! No Pre-Packaged Food! tim me F Fat att L Loss oss New En England ngland Book a FREE Consultation at NewEnglandFatLoss.com • Lifetime 22 South Street Suite S Su i 204, Hopkinton 844-437-8446 188 Needham Street 18 Suite 255, Newton 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 Got Split Ends? WE CAN HELP! Book your fresh spring hairstyle now! 12 Milford Street, Upton 508-529-6500 www.salonrichardanthony.net 2 UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER MAY 1, 2015 Valley Tech a 2015 U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School Teacher Student/ ecial Sp Summer onths m r $185 fo 3 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 justawee@comcast.net 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.” V O T E Child care starting Mid-May! The T Th hee A h Area’s ea’’ss P Premi Premier emiie eerr Fitnes Fi F Fitness iitttn ness S Studio ttu u ddio io Arrrea’s re Prrre Stud ud Featuring results-based personal training, pilates, spin, and core classes. 62 Main St., Upton • 508-614-5877 www.corefitnessnutrition.com 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 UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER 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 aniello4@charter.net and let me know your thoughts and concerns Paid for by the Aniello for Selectman Committee – P.O. Box 451 Upton MA 01568 – aniello4@charter.net 4 UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER 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, TownCrierEditor@gmail.com. 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 UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER 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 Wayne Grenier Electric..................................... 22 Webster First...................................................next WestHill Properties, Tina Cote.....................next Whitcomb House...........................................next Williams-Pedersen Funeral Home...............next Wilson’s Tire and Automotive Service............ next Wolf, DDS........................................................... 27 NEW AD CLUB MEMBERS Yarn Garden.............................................................17 5 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 TOWN CRIER PUBLICATIONS 48 Mechanic Street, Upton, MA 01568 | 508-529-7791 | TownCrier.us Publishers of Upton-Mendon Town Crier Published the 1st & 3rd Friday and mailed free to all 5,800 addresses in Upton and Mendon, MA. 6 PUBLISHER Alfred C. Holman Office: 508-529-7791 ext. 222 Cell: 508-889-1067 al.holman@towncrierpubs.com Milford Town Crier Published the 2nd & 4th Friday and mailed free to all 12,800 addresses in Milford, MA. MANAGER Marilyn C. Holman 508-529-7791 ext. 221 Manager@TownCrier.us Town Crier Publications, Inc. reserves the right to reject material it deems unfit for publication in a family newspaper. We reserve the right to edit any submitted articles as needed. We regret typographical errors in ads but will not take financial responsibility for them. We will reprint at no charge that portion of the ad in which the error appears. EDITOR Jane Bigda Cell: 508-525-1319 TownCrierEditor@gmail.com ADVERTISING PUBLICATION SCHEDULE LORI TATE 508-529-0301 LoriTateTownCrier@gmail.com Upton, Mendon, Uxbridge, Northbridge COLETTE ROONEY 508-922-9674 cerooney@charter.net Milford, Hopedale, Bellingham, Franklin SUSANNE ODELL 508-954-8148 sue_odell@verizon.net Hopkinton, Westboro, Holliston, and Ashland UPTON-MENDON May 15 • Deadline May 5 June 5 • Deadline May 26 June 19 • Deadline June 9 July 3 • Deadline June 23 UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER MILFORD May 8 • Deadline April 28 May 22 • Deadline May 12 June 12 • Deadline June 2 June 26 • Deadline June 16 Graphics: Jodi McGowan Web Manager: Andy Holman 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! Reliable Pet Sitting Over 35 Years Professional Experience in Horse and Dog Training and Care. CALL MAGGIE 508-529-6402 or 508-769-9634 Very Dependable Year Round Reliability • Daily Basis Will Administer Medications No Overnights It’s Like Leaving Your Friend With a Family Member Now Offering Color in ALL Size Display Ads!!! Call for More Information! MAY 1, 2015 ne Wis O y M FOUNDATION Milford, Massachusetts h Professional Dog, Cat, and Horse Care at Your Home The Milford, Ma My One Wish Foundation grants wishes to children who have severe medical issues. Since 1984 our organization has granted more than 200 wishes to young people from ages 3 to 18, within a 30 mile radius of Milford. QUALITY PRODUCTS ~ GREAT PRICES Full Time Service Department Factory Authorized Service Agents We service all brands, no matter where they were purchased! • LCD, LED & PLASMA TVs • Air Conditioners • Washers/Dryers • Refrigerators • Wall Ovens and • Dehumidifiers Microwaves • Gas and Electric Ovens • Kitchen Ventilation • Gas Grills Systems If you have a child or know someone who may qualify for a wish, please contact us at 508.473.4427. Our staff will do their best to grant each and every wish that we receive. We are NOT part of the Make a Wish Project. Virginia Brenna, President My One Wish Foundation Disney • Sporting Events • Electronics UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER Authorized Dealer FRANK’S APPLIANCE SALES & SERVICE 331 Main St., Milford 508-473-1309 • www.franksappliance.com 7 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 TownCrierEditor@gmail.com 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 mmaloney@mursd.org - 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 Cosmetic & Family Dentistry Relaxed Friendly Atmosphere Welcoming New Patients! Cleaning & Exams Periodontal Care Root Canals Crown & Bridge Implants Children Dentures Welcome Oral Surgery John C. Park, DMD 508-473-6500 508-473-6500 www.parkplacedentalma.com 54 Hopedale St., Suite 8, Hopedale Additional Location in Hopkinton 8 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. UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER 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 administrator@blackstonevalley.org. 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 02inspirational@gmail.com 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 info@thankstoyanks.org 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 Tina.Cote@hotmail.com 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! UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER 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 Staff Reporter/Columnist 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. UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER 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 David.Muradian@MAHouse.gov. MAY 1, 2015 Upton News Upton Schedules Special Town Meeting Prior to Annual Meeting By Michelle Sanford Staff Reporter/Columnist 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 Staff Reporter/Columnist 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 dtiernan@uptonma.gov 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. Grange@yahoo.com 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 sharon.imperialcars@gmail.com sharon.reed.25@facebook.com 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 UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER 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 mendonbrush@gmail.com. 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 Dr. Steven V. Pittman, DMD | Dr. John P. Ouano, DMD | Dr. Wael Youseff, DMD WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL A wisdom tooth or third molar can become trapped under the gums and become infected or damage the other teeth. We have performed thousands of wisdom tooth extractions. It takes less than an hour and can be done right in our offices. Before removing a wisdom tooth, we'll evaluate them and answer all of your questions. DENTAL IMPLANTOLOGY Dental implants are the most innovative area in dentistry today. Spaces from missing teeth can be fixed using dental implants - titanium "anchors" that are used to substitute tooth roots to support a dental crown or bridge. With implants, you can talk, eat and laugh like you did with your natural teeth." 113 Water Street, Milford, MA 01757 172 Main Street, Northborough, MA 01532 Visit www.towncrier.us for Breaking News, Ad Club Introduces, Calendar Items, Photo Galleries, Feature Stories, and more! 12 UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER MAY 1, 2015 Mendon News Selectman’s Race, Override, Debt Exclusions on Mendon Ballot for May 12 Election By Michelle Sanford Staff Reporter/Columnist 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 Staff Reporter/Columnist 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 friendsofmendonelders@verizon.net 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 UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER 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 UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER 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: milfordcountryclub@niles.com 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 • 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 UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER 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 UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER 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:info@bridalsbyrochelle.com 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 UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER 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 Did this winter damage your home’s exterior? Call us, we can help! Siding, Roofing, Windows, Gutters MAHIC #126805 MACSL#103764 www.advantagesidinginc.com 508-603-9615 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 bugoff@deweypestandwildlife.com 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 for all your flooring needs! See our Offer for $500 Off Fine Flooring* at www.flooringamerica1.com 24 hr ser vice CHAT LINE 18 UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER 800.356.6777 *See website for offer details 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 How Did Your Roof Survive the Winter? • GAF Certified Installer √ Emergency Roof Repair • 50 Year Warranty • Gutter Guards √ Re-Roofing • Licensed, Bonded, Insured √ Roof Installation √ Roof Replacement • More than 20 years of experience 508-478-1274 | 774-217-2530 www.roofingcompanymilford.com evergreen haven garden center New service now available in your area. Service Fee $150 • 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 • ms1322@comcast.net Competitors Coupons Accepted A Full Service Tree Removal Company Since 1980 STEVE STRATTON Owner 508-366-7693 508-839-5961 Fully Insured FREE Estimates www.templemantree.com LANDSCAPING 50% OFF LANDSCAPE DESIGN If we install the project for you! Expires 5/31/15. $500 OFF ANY JOB With Minimum Purchase of $5,000 With this coupon. Not valid with other offers or prior services. Expires 5/31/15 landscape design • walkways walls • landscape lighting Free Estimates Joshua Harris - Owner 508.966.9500 josh@harrislandscapes.com • 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 Screened Loam, Playground Mulch, Wood Chips, Specialty Stone, Gravel, Sand and more 508-435-5376 MCINTYRELOAM.COM Monday thru Friday 7:30am-4:30pm | Saturday 7:00am-12:00pm | 117 Wood Street, Hopkinton UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER 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 . Are You in the Home Improvement Industry? Your ad belongs here! Reach 20,000 addresses in your marketplace. TL SERVICES LLC Landscaping - Lawn Service Snowplowing - Sanding • SLICE SEEDING & AERATION 10% Discount • Weekly/Bi-Weekly LAWN MOWING Senior Citizens & Veterans • SPRING CLEAN UP • MULCHFully Insured & Free Estimates • RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL LANDSCAPING 508-304-2151 Family Owned - Father & Sons Richard A., Kevin R. & Michael R. McLaughlin ADDITIONS, PORCHES, VINYL SIDING & REPLACEMENT WINDOW SPECIAL DECKS, AND Call forBASEMENTS Free Estimate ✪ www.heritagesidingwindows.com First Mow FREE with Yearly Service Fully Insured & Free Estimates tlservicesma@yahoo.cm 508-304-2151 MA LIC.#117391 • CS#023118 Shop Local. Keep your $$$ in your community. Boucher Energy Systems, Inc. World Class HVAC Protect your home and family - everyday, whether you are home or away. Home, family, assets—things that matter most—remain protected during a power outage with the installation of a Honeywell standby generator. It’s the reliable answer that ensures necessities, conveniences and amenities are always available, automatically backed up when the power goes out. CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE: 508-473-6648 • www.boucherenergy.com Ask us about 0% financing through Wells Fargo! 20 UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER 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 BEST MULCH PRICES AROUND MULCH • PAVERS DECORATIVE STONE • LOAM Call for Competitive Pricing! 508-634-3300 www.cookfpi.com 252 Milford St, Rte 140, Upton Jim’s Window & Gutter CLEANING SERVICE James Laurie Owner/Insured 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 bigjim9280@gmail.com Plumbing • Heating • Air Conditioning Second Nature Landscape INC. UPTON, MA Your first choice in landscaping needs… 2 Old Fuddy Duddy Painters with 30 plus years experience Paint & Powerwash Kitchen Cabinets Refinished Starting at $600 Interior Ice Dam Repairs 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 Control & More! 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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. Hard to house hunt with rising rates? L ck-It-In probledm solve . L ck-It-In Mortgage Pre-approval * L ck-It-In It’s like having money in your pocket while you shop for up to 90 Days! Lock in your rate for 90 Days with mortgage pre-approval Call or visit any branch to lock in your rate and get pre-approved today! • One Application – pre-approval to closing! • $500 credit toward closing costs* • Fast turnaround – get an answer in one business day • Loan must close within 90 days (30-day extension available*) www.deanbank.com • (508) 528-0088 FRANKLIN BELLINGHAM BLACKSTONE MENDON Member FDIC Member SIF * Ask about interest rates and terms available. Offer is subject to credit history, loan amount, loan-to-value and debt-to-income ratios and is subject to change without notice. This program is available only for single-family owner-occupied detached dwellings and condominiums located in Massachusetts and Rhode Island for purchase only and not available for Home Equity Lines or Loans. For rate lock, loan must be closed within 90 days of pre-approval application. 30 day extension available for a fee upon request and consultation. Minimum loan amount is $100,000. Maximum loan amount is $800,000. For closing: property insurance is required; payments do not include taxes and insurance; mortgage insurance may be required at borrower’s cost; an escrow (impound) account may be required; and the interest rate may increase after consummation of loan, based on loan type and current market conditions. Borrowers and properties must qualify under FNMA guidelines. Offer effective as of 4/25/15 and is subject to change without notice. $500 toward closing costs credited at closing provided customer has or opens a Dean Bank checking account with direct deposit and payment is made via an auto debit. Not all consumers will qualify. 24-hour approval during normal business hours and subject to verification of documentation requested. Visit deanbank.com for hours. Credit ratings may affect approvals. MAY 1, 2015 UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER 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 we don’t just talk, we deliver! to your home & on your computer! UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER 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 On April 16, the Blackstone Valley Tech SkillsUSA Community Service team 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 On April 16, the Blackstone Valley Tech SkillsUSA Community Service team 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 UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER 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 Sports Reporter/Columnist 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 Sports Reporter/Columnist 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.” UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER 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 jimgrant12@icloud.com, 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.” Please patronize our advertisers. Tell them you saw their ad in The Town Crier. MAY 1, 2015 UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER General, ImplantDentistry Dentistry General,Cosmetic Cosmetic & & Implant Visit www.towncrier.us and click on SPORTS to read about all the sport's teams! NEED CASH? TOP DOLLAR PAID for Gold, Silver, Diamonds, & Coins ... NATHANS’ Jewelers 508-473-7375 157 Main Street MILFORD Mendon Barber Shop Specializing in Men & Children Lynne Stacy Paulette Lawrence Tues 8-5 • Wed 8-6 Thurs 1-7 Fri 9-5 Sat 7-1 Tues 9-5 • Thurs 9-5 Sat 8:30 - 1 Walk-ins welcome 508-478-4441 14 Hastings Street, Mendon Body Transformation Coaching Eat lots of delicious food Exercise for a handful of hours a week Get the expert support you need Experience the body you’ve always wanted Usual Investment $997 Special Offer!!! $699 OR 4 monthly payments of $174.75 Dr. Paul Henning, PhD Certified Strength & Conditioning Expert Metabolic Precision Level 4 Certified To receive the discounted price, purchase now! Call 850-570-8050 or visit paulhenningphd.com. ➔ By Chris Villani Sports Reporter/Columnist 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 Want HELP with your Property? Contact the Real Estate Professionals at 112 Main Street, Upton www.BillMcCormick.com Bill McCormick 508-320-3500 BillMcProperty@gmail.com Christine Bach 774-280-2006 ChristineBProperties@gmail.com CPR Etc. CPR, AED, First Aid Training Bloodborne Pathogen On-Site Training Companies • Schools • Private (in-home) No Class Too Small • Any Time, Anywhere Susan Tetreault 508-473-3630 Licensed & Insured cpr_etc@comcast.net Janet L. Goguen, DMD RESTORATIVE & FAMILY DENTISTRY • Complete Dentistry • Cosmetic Bonding • Porcelain Veneers, Crowns, & Bridges • White Fillings & Mercury Free Restorations • Implants & Implant Supported Dentures Most Insurances • All periodontal services now available Accepted 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: TheTownCrier@charter.net 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 YOU With our nique mortgage options, your dreams can come true. If you’re looking to refinance or buy a home, we offer mortgage solutions that nique. At Charles River Bank, our Mortgage Consultants will provide the are nique banking experience. expertise you need and a truly YOU YOU Talk with a Charles River Bank Mortgage Consultant today, or visit our online nique. Mortgage Center anytime. We’ll show you why Charles River Bank is YOU 508-533-8661 70 Main Street • Medway 2 South Maple Street • Bellingham 1 Hastings Street • Mendon Member FDIC, Member SIF 28 Agency: Client: W.S.#: File Name: Davis Advertising Charles River Bank CRB19051 CRB19051_Younique_TownCrier Equal Housing Lender www.charlesriverbank.com NMLS# 743045 Media: Town Crier UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER Size: Color: Date. 10.25” x 7.5” BW 7/2013 Request for PDF to be put in WorkZone Holding Tank MAY 1, 2015 AE/AC: PDF uploaded to WorkZone 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: annmarie@highfieldsgolf.com 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 Info@CrystalRoomMa.com 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 Upton House Of Pizza Coupon Upton House Of Pizza Coupon 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 Expires JULY 3, 2015 1 Coupon/visit w/coupon. Cannot Be Combined UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER Expires JULY 3, 2015 1 Coupon/visit w/coupon. Cannot Be Combined Expires JULY 3, 2015 1 Coupon/visit w/coupon. 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 friendsoftaftlibrary@gmail.com. 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 friendsoftaftlibrary@gmail.com. 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 friendsoftaftlibrary@gmail.com. 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. UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER 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. Mill House Gift Cards make great Mother’s Day Gifts! UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER 31 52 Acres of Quality Preowned Cars! In “the little town of Mendon!” IMPERIAL CARS.COM OPEN DAILY 9-9, SATURDAY 9-6, SUNDAY 11-6 • 800-526-AUTO DOOR BUSTERS Why pay the difference if you can’t tell the difference? Impalas R READY FO DELIVERY 2014 CHEVY IMPALA LTZ Brand New MSRP: $31,180 vs. $ $ SAVE 15,000! Like New 16,777 #36233R Brand New MSRP: $31,025 vs. $ SAVE 10,000! Like New 20,977 #P9370 18,777 12,500! List Price: $20,977 #P9347 $ Brand New MSRP: $47,070 vs. SAVE 22,000! $ Like New 25,477 #D6951R $ SAVE 12,000! 17,777 0 63/week $ PRICED $4,000 BELOW KELLEY BLUE BOOK RETAIL! 2013 Ford Fusion SE Hybrid $ List Price: $21,855 $ Like New 21,677 Fuel efficient, 40 MPG hwy., Aluminum wheels, MyFord Touch, Sunroof. #P9240 18,777 0 $66/week down PRICED $1,000 BELOW KELLEY BLUE BOOK RETAIL! 2013 Cadillac ATS #BBD237 List Price: $26,944 $ Sunroof, Aluminum wheels, Premium sound sys., Power package. #36174L 21,377 0 $75/week down PRICED $2,000 BELOW KELLEY BLUE BOOK RETAIL! 2015 CHEVY TAHOE LS Brand New MSRP: $50,990 vs. Only 5,700 miles! Alloy wheels, full power package. #D6744 down 15 R READY FO DELIVERY 2014 CHRYSLER 300 C 18,977 0 $67/week 2010 Dodge Charger SXT 2014 JEEP CHEROKEE LATITUDE $ Turbo, Back-up camera, Heated leather seats, Premium sound sys. #36209 PRICED $3,000 BELOW KELLEY BLUE BOOK RETAIL! Like New Tahoes 300s 18 R READY FO DELIVERY $ $ 10,000! Brand New MSRP: $34,265 vs. SAVE PRICED $2000 BELOW KELLEY BLUE BOOK RETAIL! down 18 R READY FOY DELIVER 2014 FORD MUSTANG down $ Cherokees 20 Mustangs R READY FO DELIVERY $ $ SAVE 13,777 0 $212/mo. List Price: $23,944 2014 FORD FUSION SE Brand New MSRP: $29,855 vs. $ Heated leather, Sunroof, Alloy wheels, Remote start, Dual Zone A/C. #115143A 2014 Buick Verano 30 Fusions 24 R READY FO DELIVERY 2013 Ford Taurus SEL List Price: $19,944 $ Like New 38,477 #BB36197 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee List Price: $28,977 $ 4x4, Aluminum wheels, Keyless start, Dual zone A/C. #D6760 24,777 0 down $ 88/week PRICED $1,000 BELOW KELLEY BLUE BOOK RETAIL! Bad credit don’t sweat it. We finance your future not your past! Sale Ends 5/6/15 2009 Pontiac G5 39 Pontiacs READY FOR DELIVERY Moonroof, Great miles!, Keyless entry. #15565A List Price: $9,988 8,877 $ BUY FOR PRICED $1,000 BELOW KELLEY BLUE BOOK RETAIL! 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan 14 Caravans READY FOR DELIVERY V6 engine, Keyless entry, Dual zone A/C. #D7018R List Price: $12,977 9,977 $ BUY FOR PRICED $4,000 BELOW KELLEY BLUE BOOK RETAIL! 2012 Chevy Malibu LS 30 Malibus READY FOR DELIVERY Power package, 33 MPG hwy., 4 cly. economy. #36242L List Price: $11,988 BUY FOR 9,977 $ PRICED $3,000 BELOW KELLEY BLUE BOOK RETAIL! 2014 Chevy Spark LS Aluminum wheels, 4 cyl. economy, Low mles! #36271 Great on Gas! List Price: $12,944 BUY FOR READY FOR DELIVERY 10,677 $ PRICED $1,000 BELOW KELLEY BLUE BOOK RETAIL! Ends 5/6/15. Prices valid on vehicles indicated only, see website for details. Not valid with previous sales. Monthly/weekly financing rates based on 72 months, 2.99% APR with credit approval and require dealer source financing. Tax, title, registration and doc. fee not included. Must present ad, take same day delivery and pay in full to get advertised price. Not responsible for typographical errors. CHEVROLET 32 IMPERIAL CHEVROLET RTE 16, MENDON, MA IMPERIAL FORD RTE 16, MENDON, MA UPTON-MENDON TOWN CRIER IMPERIAL CHRYSLER-DODGE-JEEP RTE 16, MENDON, MA MAY 1, 2015
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