The New Uxbridge Times - March, 2023

Uxbridge Times

Uxbridge Times

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New Northbridge Fire Station will be ready to roll in 2024

by Christine Beauchaine

The Northbridge fire station project is “moving along well” according to Northbridge Fire Chief, David White.

The project was originally slated to be completed in September of 2023 but supply issues with electrical equipment have pushed the expected completion date out by several weeks. However, the electrical equipment supply issue has been the only glitch so far.

This will be the first time that the town of Northbridge has ever had a brand new fire station. The town currently has two stations. The main station in Whitinsville was built by the Whitin Machine Works in 1920 and gifted to the town in 1978.  The second station, in Rockdale was built in the 1950’s by The Mill in that part of town and similarly gifted to the town.

“Both of these stations have lived long past their time and are not cost effective anymore. The bays are narrow and were never built for the modern fire apparatus we use today. When the vehicles exit and enter the bays there is only a few inches of clearance on each side. Our Ladder truck can not leave the station without having to back up and readjust because there is no room to turn,”

- David White Northbridge Fire Chief

He added that the existing buildings are not energy efficient and “cannot handle new technologies that are required for today’s fire service.”  The new building has been designed to last many years.  It will also integrate some of the newer fire technologies including a decontamination room and four story training tower.  White noted that the ability to train is critical to firefighters, in order to stay “sharp” and do their

job effectively.  The new facility will also enable the department to hold public education classes and feature a backup dispatch area. White expressed gratitude to the citizens of Northbridge for their “overwhelming backing of the project.”

“As a lifelong resident of Northbridge and as a member of the fire department since I was 18 years old, I have seen many changes throughout the years,” White noted.

“The best thing about this town,” White added, “is that we have always had the small town atmosphere where everyone knows each other and looks out for each other.”

The new projected completion date for the Northbridge fire station is January of 2024.

“Overall,” White noted, “ this project will make our service to the citizens of Northbridge better and more efficient in the future.

The new fire station is being built on Providence Road at the site of the former Riverdale baseball field.

BVCC prepares for 23rd Annual Home & Community Expo

The Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce (BVCC) is delighted to announce our 23rd Annual Home & Community Expo event on Saturday, March 25th at Northbridge High School Field House, 427 Linwood Ave., Whitinsville. This Spring community event will begin at 10:00am and go until 2:00 p.m. We are also proud to announce UniBank as our presenting sponsor.

The BVCC Home & Community Expo is the largest, most well attended and highly anticipated event of the year for businesses and the community. Each year the BVCC hosts more than 100 exhibitors and over 1,000+ attendees from the community. The BVCC Home & Community Expo is the number one event to advertise your busi-

ness to residents and potential customers in our community! Make 2023 your year and take your marketing to the next level. Use this unique opportunity to do face to face networking and marketing with a captive audience. Plus your business may be mentioned and tagged on the BVCC Social Media prior to, during and after the event for hundreds more to see! The exposure and promotion for businesses is unmatched at an event of this stature. Exhibitors range from health and wellness, financial, education, home improvement, and the performing arts just to name a few! Exhibitor registration deadline is March 8, 2023.

In addition to the wide array of exhibitors, the Expo also highlights our annual “Best of the Valley” Chowder-

fest, showcasing local restaurants and their signature recipes. Do you have an award winning chowder recipe? Bring your best to the BVCC Home & Community Expo! Compete for the “2023 People’s Choice” and “2023 Judge’s Choice” awards, sponsored by Milford Federal Credit Union.

“The Home & Community Expo is an exciting event that showcases our wonderful local small businesses, offering the perfect opportunity to engage, meet and make lasting connections with our community.” said, Jeannie Hebert, President and CEO of the Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce.

To download free tickets, please visit www.blackstonevalley.org/events.

FREE admission with a ticket, or bring a non-perishable food item to benefit

PSG hosts Spring Vendor Fair

The Uxbridge PSG 2023 is hosting a Spring Vendor Fair which will take place on April 30th, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Uxbridge H.S. Over 30 local vendors with unique gifts for all your needs will be on hand, raffle items will be available. PSG raised funds go towards the Uxbridge H.S. Class

of 2023 graduation event that each year helps us celebrate the kids graduation in a safe, alcohol and drug free environment.

Please contact Uxbridge PSG FMI: psguxbridge@gmail.com or look on Facebook @ Uxbridge

PSG 2023 - Parents for A Safe Graduation.

Peace of Bread food bank! $3 Admission per person otherwise. Sponsorship opportunities, registration for exhibitor booths, and the Chowderfest are still available. For more information, please contact Liz O’Neil at 508-234-9090 ext 102 or email Liz at, loneil@blackstonevalley. org, or register online at www.blackstonevalley. org/events.

The Mission of the Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce is to preserve and enhance the economic vitality of the Blackstone Valley by addressing the needs and concerns of businesses and providing leadership, support and resources in connection with issues which impact commerce and the quality of life in the Valley.

The Samuel Slater Experience Museum will celebrate its first anniversary with balloons, raffles, photo stickers, food truck, fun, and free admission for kids 12 and under. The festive event for the public will be held on Saturday, March 4th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 31 Ray Street in Webster. See story on page 9

Manchaug – It Takes a Village

Nothing brings back fonder memories of childhood as the unsupervised gathering spot of groups of children of all ages. Manchaug Village, Sutton, has that spot in the 3-acre plot of land, located at 7 Darling Lane, simply known by generations as the “Ball Field”.   This parcel, officially known as The American Legion Park, needs revitalization. Currently, the playground equipment is outdated, not meeting current consumer safety standards, the basketball court and softball field require maintenance, and there is no parking.

Sutton Recreational Resources, Inc., (SRR) a 501(c)3 organization founded in 2019 by local residents, has stepped up to lead this effort.  With a mission of encouraging physical fitness for Sutton’s youth by providing appropriate public recreational spaces, SRR successfully led the fundraising effort to revitalize Unity Park, 7 Boston Road, Wilkinsonville, as well as Jacob Van Dyke Memorial Park, 5 Hough Road, South Sutton, slated for groundbreaking by the town in July 2023. SRR is grateful for the financial assistance provided by local businesses, residents, and other charitable organizations for these projects, and is once again looking for community support.

With project costs for the American Legion Park of $435,000, SRR has an ambitious fundraising goal of $200,000. A 2023 grant from the Sutton Cultural Council of $1,000, as well as

preliminary fund-raising, has the group on its way.  The project is supported by the Town of Sutton, which has applied for a 50% project cost matching grant.

who had given so much in service to their country, a place to gather with family and friends to make new, happier memories.  Manchaug had two sons

performing on an RV at the backstop and the community events which followed, including a greased pig contest. From summer recreation, to softball, little league, men’s softball, soccer, basketball, ice skating on a flooded basketball court, tag, you name it, it happened in this little spot of land that was the whole word to hundreds of area children.  This revitalization project will ensure the park continues to be a

safe place for not only Sutton’s children to run, explore and socialize, but for children around the greater Blackstone Valley area.

SRR needs a “Village” to ensure the success of this project.  For information on how to donate, visit suttonrec.weebly.com, email SuttonRec@ protonmail.com, or visit our Facebook page, Sutton Recreational Resources.

Trustees sponsor “Irish in America” Musical Event

The Board of Library Trustees of the Uxbridge Free Public Library will be sponsoring an “Irish in America” event on March 2, 2023 at 6:30 pm. This inspiring and festive event will be held at the former Unitarian Church which is located adjacent to the Uxbridge Library.

The evening will feature, Mary King, a celebrated Rhode Island Celtic Harpist and her musical friends. They will be playing and singing the traditional tunes that are such a large part of Ireland. All ages are welcome! So get your green on, warm up your voices and enjoy!

Project information can be found at www.suttonma.org/planning/pages/ american-legion-park-renovation.

This green space is the largest, open, public space in Manchaug--a 19th  century mill village, named to the National Register of Historic Places, having most homes on small lots.  Acquired in the 1940s by the newly-established John Mateychuk Post No. 390 American Legion Department of Massachusetts, Inc. for no fee from Joseph D. Bousquet, Sr. and his wife, Asterie, this property was intended to provide the returning WWII soldiers,

killed in action in WWII.   John Mateychuk, age 22, Naval Electrician 3rd  Class, June 1943, and Robert Manosh, age 21, Army Private 1st Class, April 1945. During Vietnam, the Village lost Dennis Benson, age 21, Army Specialist 4, December 1968. The Town of Sutton acquired the property in 2016 after the closing of the Mateychuk Post.

The park has succeeded in providing memories for generations.  For all those living in the Village in the late 60s, the marquee event of the “Ball Field” has to be The Rex Trailer Show

508-887-3507

The proposed makeover of the “Ball Field”

town News

Uxbridge HS Drama Club preforms “Grease”

The Uxbridge High School Drama Club will present gREASE: SCHOOL VERSION Book, Music and Lyrics by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey. Performance dates are Friday, March 17th, and Saturday, March 18th, at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday March 19th at 2:00 p.m. in the Uxbridge High School Auditorium. “grease: School Version” is presented by special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc., a Concord Theatricals Company. www.concordtheatricals. com grease is a turbo-fueled nostalgic musical road trip through the joys, relationships, and dances -- literally and emotionally -- of the students of Rydell High in 1959. Come share the excitement of new love, shiny cars, future dreams, and best friendships as “We go Together” from those “Summer

Nights”, “Hopelessly Devoted to You”. and so much more! We go together is absolutely right as the UHS Drama Club has a cast and crew sixty members strong! They are directed by Mrs. Kathleen Penza and Ms. Mary Mangnall, with a great deal of assistance from Ms. Sue Hirtle. The production is also collaborative effort between several departments at Uxbridge High School including Performing Arts, Visual Arts/graphic Design, and Technology and Construction. The annual musical is truly a school-wide effort!

Contact the Uxbridge High School office to reserve tickets. Tickets are free but required for admission. They will be available to the public starting March 6th.

KEARNS

Return Home Registry Program

Loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or other disabilities, are at great risk to wander from home. In New England, weather conditions are hazardous much of the year. It is critical that public safety is in a position to respond quickly. The Uxbridge Senior Center in partnership with the Uxbridge Police Department facilitiates the safe return of our residents. This Program will set up a database for the Uxbridge Police Department to utilize if a resident wanders off from their residence. First responders will reconnect residents with their families who experience a medical emergency or have wandered.

Both young and older residents who have the tendency or possibility to wander are eligible to enroll. By registering, first responders have access to the patient’s profile, which contains medical conditions, allergies, medications taken, mobility issues, locations frequented, and other important information. Dispatch will relay this information to first responders to enable fast, accurate care. Enroll by either registering on-line at https://bit.ly/ uxbridgereturn, fill out the paper form, or call for assistance at 508-278-8622.

Pansy sales will help Lions Club Spring projects

The Uxbridge Lions are preparing those huge flower pots to bring color and beauty to Main Street Uxbridge. Naturally, those efforts need the support of the community. Because the Pansy Sale was so popular in 2022, a repeat is planned for March. The Lions Club will be accepting orders now and would like as many as possible by March 15th.

They will set up their garden tent at the Uxbridge Senior Center at 37 S. Main Street, on Saturday, March 25, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to deliver preorders and sell onsite. Pansy purchases can be made as long as supplies last and will be delivered on or before by April 1st at our second onsite pansy sale. The selection includes Pansy Oval, Pansy Market Basket and Pansy Bowl, all priced at approximately $20. Buy two

items and receive a ticket for a drawing of a Spring Bulb Basket valued at $50. To be sure to get your order in, take advantage of 4 Ways to Order. Text 508-450-2451; message on Facebook Uxbridge, MA Lions Club or email uxbridge.ma.lions@gmail.com.

Purchasers of last year’s Lions Beautify Uxbridge Project pansies were extremely satisfied with the variety and quality of the blooms.

Pansies are extremely popular with flower growers all over the world calling them Johnny Jump Ups, Love in Idleness or Three Faces in a Hood. New Englanders love them, too! Donations for the Lions Beautify Uxbridge Project can be sent to Uxbridge Lions Club,  P.O. Box 455, North Uxbridge, MA 01538.

UHS Athletic Hall of Fame now accepting nominations

The Uxbridge High School Athletic Hall of Fame will be accepting nominations for its next induction class. Nominations can be submitted on an ongoing basis, and the review of nominations for this class will be taking place in April and May of 2023.

The next induction is being planned for November of 2023. Nominations can be submitted online using a form available on the Uxbridge High School website or by following this link: https://bit.ly/UHSHOF23

A WARM WELCOME FOR SPOT THE DOG

Taft School STEAM lab had the Boston Dynamics Spot the Dog come to school for all students to learn about the fun world of robotics. Students had the opportunity to learn about coding and interact with the robot itself. A special thank you to all parents for supporting Taft PTO Events, so Taft PTO can funded these amazing opportunities.

A Corned Beef Sandwich & History lesson

Saint Patrick’s Day is just around the corner and the Douglas Historical Society is getting ready to celebrate. On March 17th they will be serving a Corned Beef Sandwich lunch. Join in at the E.N. Jenckes Store Museum, 283 Main St., Douglas, between noon and 6 p.m. Your donation of $12.00 will not only help Support and maintain this Historical Building; you will also get to enjoy all the yumminess of a Corned Beef sandwich on rye or pumpernickel with coleslaw, sour pickle and

beverage. Then, top it off with a delicious Irish themed cupcake or cookie dessert. You can sit and relax while you enjoy your lunch or take it to go.

Not Irish, you say. When Saint Paddy’s Day rolls around it seems like everyone has a little bit if Irish in them. Just the thought of biting into a delicious Corned Beef sandwich makes your mouth water. So join us for a delicious sandwich and learn a bit more about the origins of Corned Beef and Cabbage.

Douglas Sunshine Club upcoming events

Join in a gardening program on Friday, March 10th at 12 noon. The Douglas Sunshine Club has invited Lanette  Lepper  from Armstrong Acres in Dudley to the Douglas Adult Social Center to discuss best practices for planning and preparing your gardens this year. She has been actively sharing her year’s of experience and knowledge with other garden enthusiasts with a very common sense approach to help any level of gardener. Lanette will be glad to answer any questions during and after the program Refreshments will be served. Everyone is welcome. Please call the center at 508-476-2283 to sign up. Located at  331 Main St., Douglas, MA

On  Friday, March 24  the Douglas Sunshine Club is sponsoring a BBQ lunch and line dancing with dance teacher Felicia at 12:00-2:30. Come have some fun at the Douglas Adult Social Center with an afternoon of fun as you learn some of our

favorite dances with new and old friends. Lunch will be served at noon and costs $5. Reservations are required by March 20 and can be made by calling the center at 508-476-2283 or stopping in to reserve your spot. The center is located at 331 Main St., Douglas.

Irish Night at UPC

The Uxbridge Progressive Club will host an Irish Night on Saturday March 18th. Located at 18 Whitin Street in N. Uxbridge the doors will open at 6:00 p.m. A Corned Beef Dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m. Followed by music from 7:00 p.m.11:00 p.m. by The Laura May Band. Tickets are $20 Dinner and Dancing and $15 Dinner onlytake out (5:30-6:30 p.m. at kitchen door).

Tickets available at the club for more info please call 508-278-9800.

Master Masons gather for first official L.O.I Meeting

Recently, Master Masons from throughout the 24th Masonic District traveled to Solomons Temple Lodge in Uxbridge, to attend the new (DDgM) District Deputy grand Master Right Worship Jonathan Neitz, 1st official (L.O.I.) Lodge of Instructions meeting. The guest speaker was Right Worshipful Michael Jarzabek, Past Junior grand Warden of the grand Masonic Lodge of Boston. The topic of brother Jarzabek’s conversation was about the inventor of the game of basketball James Naismith who also happened to be a Master Mason.

Solomon Temple Lodge in Uxbridge was packed with brethren from all 7

lodges from the 24th Masonic District. These Masonic Lodges are in the towns of Auburn, Southbridge, Webster, Douglas, Oxford, Charlton, and Uxbridge. Did you know Solomon Temple lodge is the oldest Masonic lodge in Massachusetts that still operates in its original building? It was charted on December 10th, 1818, and this lodge is still thriving, wow 204 years strong and continues having meetings in its original building. For your history enthusiasts go to Masonic genealogy of Massachusetts to read more about the historical notes about Solomon Temple Lodge and most of all the buildings rich history.

James Naismith graduated from Mcgill University in Montreal with a Bachelor of Arts in Physical Education in 1888 and then he became a physical education teacher. He left Montreal for a job as a physical education teacher at the YMCA International Training School in Springfield, Massachusetts. At the Springfield YMCA Naismith was left with a challenge. He had a

class of rowdy young men who unable to go outside in the harsh winter and had become almost uncontrollable. The game had to be no contact as his boss did not want anyone to get hurt. Naismith looked at some popular games at the time, baseball, football, soccer, and lacrosse. He had an idea and Naismith decided to put two peach baskets that he attached to the railings,

10 feet above the gym floor and used a big soft soccer ball. Initially people were allowed to move with the ball, and this led to a variety of injuries since people’s instinct was to tackle the player with the ball. After the first round of injuries rules were put in place and players had to strictly pass the ball.

Naismith was also a Master Mason and member of the Russell Lee Lodge in Springfield, Mass and later affiliated with the Lawrence Lodge No. 6 in Kansas. He was Worshipful Master of Lawrence Lodge from 1927 until 1928.

If you find yourself in Springfield, Massachusetts visit the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. If you would like more information or interested in Freemasonry, please visit, and go to massfreemasonary.org and find a lodge nearest you.

The New Uxbridge Times is direct mailed monthly to over 21,000 households & businesses in Uxbridge, North Uxbridge, Linwood, Douglas, Manchaug, Northbridge, Whitinsville & Sutton on or about the 1st of each month. 800 additional copies are delivered to business establishments, public offices & senior centers in four surrounding towns.

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Written by: Bro. Jimmy Falzone, Public Relations Officer, Quinebuag Masonic Lodge, Southbridge

BRETHREN’S OF

24TH MASONiC DiSTRiCT:(at center with the gold color jewel around his neck) is newly elected District Deputy Grand Master Right Worshipful Jonathan Neitz.

Precious Ones purchases Childcare Center in Holden Travels with George and the importance of History

Jeff May (Owner of Precious Ones) recently purchased Steppingstones Learning Center of Holden. Jeff said, “I honestly wasn’t looking to acquire another center but this opportunity kind of fell in my lap.” Jeff went on to explain that “It was a great opportunity, and that Precious Ones is thrilled to be serving the families of Holden.”

Precious Ones recently ex-panded the program in Northbridge by creating 2 additional infant/toddler rooms and moving their Pre-K kids to the 61 Linwood Avenue location (Methodist Church).

Precious Ones currently offers infant, toddler and Preschool care at its main facilities in Uxbridge and Northbridge. They also have separate school age locations in both Uxbridge and Northbridge. This past fall, they added a preschool program to their Douglas location (164 Davis Street). On the growth and expansion of Precious Ones, Jeff said “I’m just working hard one day at a time, and I never dreamed it would grow to this level when I started Precious Ones back in 2010.” Jeff spoke of the high demand for quality childcare in this area and the tremen-

dous team he is blessed with at Precious Ones. He offered “we are incredibly grateful for god’s blessing on Precious Ones, and we look forward to being able to meet the childcare, preschool and school age needs of the families in the communities that we serve”.

When asked what message he would like to give to families in the Black-stone Valley; Jeff said, “it all stems from a genuine love for children; they are created in god’s image and Precious in His sight and it is an incredible honor and privilege to care for the amazing children under our care.”

Author Nathaniel Philbrick will be presenting “Travels with george and the Importance of Local History” on Sunday, March 26, 2:00 p.m. at the North Main Street Church, 23 North Main Street in Uxbridge. His latest New York Times bestseller, Travels with george:  In Search of Washington and His Legacy, was published in September of 2021.

Early in his term as President, george Washington visited every state in the Union. The United States was relatively new, having won its independence half a dozen years earlier. Along the way in 1789, Washington visited Uxbridge as did Nathaniel, along with his wife Melissa, and their dog Dora in 2019 while doing research for this book.

With his passion for history,

Nathaniel will also speak on the importance of the preservation of local history as part of the fabric of the community and region. Buildings, historic and cultural sites, records, and artifacts all play a role in protecting our heritage and leaving a legacy for future generations. On a local level this effort requires dedication and a cooperative group of people in preserving our historic treasures.

Author of In the Heart of the Sea, winner of the National Book Award; Mayflower, finalist for the Pulitzer Prize; Valiant Ambition, winner of the george Washington Prize; Bunker Hill, winner of the New England Book Award; Sea of glory; The Last Stand; Why Read Moby Dick?; Away Off Shore; and Second Wind Learn more about Nathaniel at www.nathaniel-

philbrick.com.

Seating is limited and reservations are suggested. For reservations or more information email uxbridgehistoricalsociety@gmail.com with your name(s) and contact information or contact Mary Beauchamp at (508) 930-6021.

A book signing will follow the presentation. Books will be available for purchase, by cash or check only, at the event courtesy of the Samuel Slater Experience Museum pop-up shop. Learn more at www.samuelslaterexperience.org.

This event is being sponsored by the Uxbridge Historical Society, the Arthur R. Taft Memorial Trust, and the Uxbridge Public Library.

Sepe Tree Service

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ObITUARIES______

Peggy Jo Veal, 78

Peggy Jo (Powers) Veal, 78, passed away on December 25th, 2022, in the Milford Regional Medical Center.

Born in Louisville, Mississippi, to the late Harold and Mary Margaret (Johnston) Powers, Peggy often spoke of a childhood shaped by the love of her grandparents, with whom she lived as a small child, and the resilience developed through frequent moves required by her father’s military career. She graduated from California State University Los Angeles, earning a bachelor’s degree in

finance. With her daughters, she emphasized the importance of women securing an education, a career, and financial selfsufficiency. Peggy worked as a project manager in construction and led a successful business administration start-up before her retirement.

From the red clay of her grandparent’s farm in Choctaw County, MS to the granite soil of her Mendon, MA farm; Peggy’s lifepath has been marked by her positive, loving, and inspiring relationships with all of us that she touched. She prioritized what she valued the most: her family relationships, being a strong and independent woman, advocating for social and environmental justice, and being involved in her local community.

With a strong interest in liberal politics and concerns about the future of the United States, Peggy did not just express her convictions; she also acted on them. Her concerns about global warming motivated the family to install a 15KW solar system and a geothermal heating/AC system at home. Peggy also served on the Mendon Democratic Town Committee and was an active member of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Worcester.

A voracious reader and dog lover, who raised chickens, crocheted, and canned homemade jam, Peggy somehow also found time to indulge in her love of singing as a member of the semi-professional chorus, the Neponset Choral

Society of Foxborough. She also enjoyed visiting her grandchildren and was very proud of their accomplishments.

In addition to her husband of 43 years, Alan Kolbe, Peggy is survived by her daughter, Penelope “Penny” Dawn (Veal) Alves and Robert of Rhode Island; her daughter, Athena Rebecca Kolbe and Ofer of Florida; her brother, Harold Powers, Jr. and Marsha of georgia; and her three grandchildren: Faith, Rachel, and Michael. She was predeceased by her sister, Betty Ann Powers.

The Celebration of Peggy’s Life will be held at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Worcester, MA the afternoon of April 23, 2023. The family requests that donations in Peggy’s memory be made to two community institutions she particularly valued: the UMass Medical School, Office of Advancement,  333 South St., Shrewsbury, MA 01545, and/or the Unitarian Universalist Church,  90 Holden St., Worcester, MA 01606.

Gloria S. Sutherland, 93

gloria S. Sutherland, age 93, of Whitinsville, passed away peacefully at Advinia Care of Northbridge after a period of declining health surrounded by her loving daughter and her dedicated attendees …CNA Jessica and Nurse Hannah, whom she loved very much. She has gone to her eternal rest in the arms of her precious Master, Savior, and

Lord Jesus Christ. Her husband of 58 years, Wayne Sutherland, passed away in 2004. gloria was born on May 4th 1929 in Portage Lake Maine, a daughter of the late Alderic and Mary L. (Levesque) Soucy. Prior to living in Whitinsville, she grew up in Portage and moved down to Southern New England taking up residence in Manchaug MA, Northbridge MA, Colchester CT, and Westminster MA.

She loved her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and made a concerted effort to introduce Him to everyone she met. She was also engaged in Christian service by leading women’s Bible studies. She also loved creating crafts and enjoyed reading.

gloria is survived by five sons, gary and his wife Barbara Sutherland of Whitinsville, Richard and his wife Donna Sutherland of Northbridge, Warren and his wife Kim Sutherland of Lebanon CT, Mark Sutherland of Orange MA, and Troy Sutherland of Athol MA. She is also survived by her only daughter Debbra and her husband Rev. Edward J Pentland of Whitinsville MA

She is survived by 16 grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren, and 3 great great grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at Pinecrest Baptist Church at 379 greenwood Street Millbury MA 01527  on a date and time to be determined.

There will be a brief graveside Service at a later date at Portage Municipal Cemetery, Fox Hill Road, Portage Lake Maine.

Memorial donations may be made to

Pinecrest Baptist Church at 379 greenwood St., Millbury MA. www.bumafuneralhome.com

Sandra A. Aubin, 75

Uxbridge/Buffalo, NY - Sandra A. “Sandy” (Smith)  Aubin, 75, of Uxbridge, formerly of Buffalo passed away peacefully with her Buffalo family by her side on Saturday, January 21st, 2023 at Tufts Medical Center in Boston after a courageous battle with cancer.

She is survived by her husband of 10 years, Lawrence A.  Aubin; her daughter Melissa Frigioni and her companion John of Lackawanna, NY; 3 grandchildren Anthony Frigioni and his wife Meridan of Iberia, MO, and Carmen Frigioni and Nicole Frigioni both of Lackawanna, NY; 7 step-children  Monika and her husband Dennis Limanek of Uxbridge, Sonja and her husband Paul Lawrence of Whitinsville, Bobbie and her husband Jon Bourque of Uxbridge, Lawrence  L. Aubin  and his wife Andrea of Hopedale, Amber  Aubin  and her companion Kyle of Uxbridge, Leah  Aubin  and her companion Holly of granby, MA, and Richard  Aubin  of Uxbridge and several step-grandchildren and step-great grandchildren.  She was predeceased by stepgrandson David P. Limanek in 2017.

Born in Buffalo, NY on January 4, 1948, she was the daughter of Francis and Rita (Bruce) Smith, and lived in Buffalo most of her life. Her heart was always in Buffalo but she has lived in Uxbridge the past 10 years.

A graduate of Lafayette High School as well as Bryant & Stratton College, Sandy was employed for many years at Franwell Optical and later worked as a home health aide. Talkative and friendly, she made friends everywhere and was well loved. A diehard Buffalo Bills football and Sabres hockey fan, she cheered them on whenever they played. A veteran’s advocate and a passionate animal lover as are her children. Sandra will be deeply missed by those who knew her.

A Memorial Service will be held in Buffalo in the Spring. There are no calling hours. Memorial donations in Sandy’s memory may be made to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals at  aspca.org.  To leave a condolence message for her family please visit http://www.jackmanfuneralhomes.com

To make a donation to the family for funeral expenses visit: www.gofundme .com/f/funeral-home-expenses-for-sandyaubin.

Sciuto’s Bookshop opens on Main St. in Douglas

Sciuto’s Bookshop, located in newly renovated historical building on 295 Main Street, has opened its doors for the first time since its announcement in November of 2022. The store carries both fiction and nonfiction titles for children, teens and adults. The store’s inventory consists entirely of used books, though owners Zachary and Andrea have set standards for the books they accept— both as sales and donations from the shop’s patrons— in order to stock great quality books and maintain a pleasant shopping experience.  The store features a variety of books ranging from new releases to rare and vintage books. Customers can find $1 and $2 book carts stationed outside the

Samuel Slater Museum Celebrates Anniversary

shop that they may browse and shop from aside from the inventory inside the store. The owners have plans to incorporate a “rare books” section, where customers will be able to shop first editions, signed copies and other collectible finds.

Sciuto’s Bookshop hopes to work in collaboration with other local businesses and artists and become a space that celebrates the local community. “We believe that a bookstore is something that can truly enrich and give back to a place,” Zachary Sciuto said “There has been much excitement around the shop which has given us a lot of encouragement in this new venture.”

Historical Society celebrates Women’s History Month

Join us on Saturday, March 4th, at 2 p.m. as we celebrate Women’s History Month with a cinematic performance of World War Women: The Unsung Heroines of WWll-featuring Judith Kalaora founder and artistic Director of History at Play TM. This program follows the unprecedented work of heroines who risked everything. They organized resistance movements, blew up rail tracks and flew dangerous missions in an effort to boost the war effort.

The event will take place at goss Hall at the Unitarian Church located at 13 Maple Street, Mendon. This program is made possible through the generosity of a grant from the Massachusetts Cultural Council, Mendon Chapter. For more information or to register for World War Women please contact us at mendonhistorical@gmail.com. Preregistration is recommended. Light refreshments will be served.

The non-traditional Samuel Slater Experience Museum will celebrate its first anniversary in a traditional way, with balloons, raffles, photo stickers, food truck, fun, and free admission for kids 12 and under. The festive event for the public will be held on Saturday, March 4, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 31 Ray Street in Webster.

Samuel Slater Experience opened one year ago to tell the story of Samuel Slater, the beginnings of the American Industrial Revolution, and Slater’s impact on mill towns such as Webster, Described as “Disney-like,” Samuel Slater Experience employs state-of-theart 4-D digital technology with immersive video and interactive exhibits to recreate two time periods: the early 1800s and the early 1900s. It creatively blends historical settings with experiential multi-media sight, sound, scents and movement.

In its first year, Samuel Slater Experience hosted hundreds of students on school field trips, many historical societies, special interest groups and organizations, as well as visitors from far beyond the local area.

“To be remembered you have to make an impression, and we’ve certainly accomplished that,” said founder Christopher Robert. “Visitors tell us this is the best museum they’ve ever been to, that it’s amazing, beyond spectacular.”

Included in the March 4the event will

be: Raffles for gift cards from local businesses, tickets will be available March 2-5; participants do not have to be present to win. A Food Truck; Tony Island Hot Dog Company of Oxford will park onsite from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with their famous grilled hotdogs.

Photo stickers: A local photographer will take pictures of kids on the trolley and make stickers.

Reduced admission prices are $11 for adults, $5 for seniors (over 60), $7 for students 13-17, kids 12 and under free with paid adult admission. Kids 16 and under must be accompanied by an

adult. Tickets can be purchased in advance online at https://samuelslaterexperience.org.

WHERE IS THE SAMUEL SLATER ExPERIENCE?

Samuel Slater Experience is located in the former National guard Armory at 31 Ray Street, Webster and open to the public year-round. For more information, tickets, or group tours visit www.samuelslaterexperience.org.

Year-round Daily Schedule: Fridays & Saturdays: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday: Noon to 4 p.m. Last entry is at 3 p.m.

Fun Programs offered at Uxbridge Library

MARCH “MINUTE MADNESS”

It’s tournament time! Can you help us out-read other Massachusetts libraries?

Starting March 1, log your reading as we fight for a spot in the Minute Madness Championship. Each week we will read head-to-head against 20 libraries from across the state in this bracket-style reading competition. The library with the most minutes read will be the Minute Madness champion! Books, audiobooks, graphic novels, magazines and newspapers all count towards our total. Visit uxbridgelibrary.beanstack.org, download the Beanstack app, or visit the Library to log the minutes you read! Prizes are generously sponsored by the Friends of the Uxbridge Library.

THE ART OF PYSANKY: UKRAINIAN EASTER EggS

Come join us on Thursday, March 23rd at 5:30 pm to learn about the colorful world of Pysanky, the Ukrainian art form in which an egg is designed with traditional folk motifs using wax and dyes. You will design your own beautiful egg and learn about the history and meanings of this unique Ukrainian art form. No experience is necessary. Registration is required — please keep in mind that this program is open to adults only. This class is provided through a grant from the Uxbridge Cultural Council.

ADULT PROGRAMS

Register now:

IRISH IN AMERICA

WITH MARY KINgMar. 2 at 6:30 pm

gENTLE FLOW YOgA - Mondays, Mar. 6, 13, 20, and 27 at 7 pm

CARDMAKINg HANDS-ON WORKSHOP - Mar. 9 at 6:15 pm

PopUp Library at the Senior CenterMar. 23 at 11:30 am

EMBROIDERY 101

WITH MADONNA TERLIZZI

Mar. 30 at 6 pm

BOOK-A-LIBRARIAN

Need help downloading e-books and using other library digital resources?

Contact the library to book a 30-minute appointment with a librarian for handson tech assistance. Wednesdays from 2:30 pm-4 pm.

JOIN A BOOK CLUB:

UxBRIDgE SENIOR CENTER

BOOK CLUB - The Bullet That Missed by Richard Osman, Mar. 14 at 1 pm

HISTORICAL FICTION BOOK

CLUB- The Diamond Eye by Kate Quinn, Mar. 21 at 3:30 pm

BOOKIES BOOK CLUB - Mar. 27 at 6:30 pm

YOUTh & TeeN PROGRAMS Register now:

TEEN BOOK-IN-A-BAg (ages 13+)Pick up your themed book-in-a-bag choice between Mar. 1-15

TEEN MOVIE & PIZZA NIgHTMar. 20 at 5:30 pm

TEEN HENNA -Mar. 22 at 6 pm

TEENS BAKE IT TILL

YOU MAKE IT - Baking and mental health conversation with Dayna Altman - Mar. 9 at 6 pm

LITTLE LOTUS YOgA(ages 6+)Mar. 6, 13, 20, & 27 at 4 pm

MUSIC AND MOVEMENT WITH DEB HUDgINS (all ages)Mar. 9 & 23 at 11 am

LEgO CHALLENgE BUILD - Mar. 14 and 28 at 4 pm

FAMILY CANDY BAR BINgO

(All ages) - Mar. 4 at 11:30 am

STAINED gLASS PAINTINg(ages 812) - Mar. 7 at 3:30 pm

COASTERS & STENCILS CRAFT

(ages 8-12) - Mar. 7 at 3:30 pm

MAKINg FRIENDSHIP

BRACELETS(ages 10-17) - Mar. 8 at 12-2 pm (Uxbridge Schools’ Half Day)

SCRATCH ART DOOR HANgER

(ages 4-7) - Mar. 15 at 3:30 pm

VIRTUAL FORTNITE

TOURNAMENT - Mar. 16 at 6 pm

STEAM WITH BUILDWAVE

Mar. 18 at 11:30 am

VELVET MINI POSTERS (ages 4-7)

Mar. 22 at 3:30 pm

LOTUS FLOWER LANTERNS

(ages 10-17) Mar. 27 at 6 pm

STORYTiMeS

(registration required):

BABY STORYTIME(0-2 years)

Mondays, Mar. 13 & 20 at 11am

TODDLER/PRESCHOOL

STORYTIME(2-4 yrs)

Wednesdays, Mar. 15 and 22 at 11 am

DROP-iN PROGRAMS:

CRAFTY WEDNESDAYS

Wednesday mornings and afternoons

Uxbridge Free Public Library is located at 15 North Main St., Uxbridge, MA www.uxbridgelibrary.org. Please visit the Library’s website at uxbridgelibrary.org or call us at 508-278-8624 to inquire about our upcoming programs or to register to attend! Many of our programs are supported by the Uxbridge Board of Library Trustees and the Friends of the Uxbridge Free Public Library.

Teen Self Expression Art Show

The Blackstone Valley Art Association is sponsoring the 2023 Teen Self Expression Art Show – this art show is open to the public! All styles of teencreated family-friendly artwork are warmly welcome. Participation is FREE and is open to the public. The show is open to any person who is a teenager (aged 13-18). Each participant may exhibit up to three pieces of artwork. These will be judged for cash prizes. The show is completely free to enter. The artwork can be on any theme and in any medium. We have glass cases in which we can display sculptures and pottery.

Please check out our Show Terms and Conditions. To submit your entries use our BVAA Online Submission Form . The deadline to submit is 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 4th. Work should be dropped off at the Open Skies gallery at 5 S. Main St. Uxbridge by Saturday, March 4th, 2023 from 10-3 p.m. . All work which is brought in will be hung (as long as it is family-friendly).

The show will be judged for ribbons and cash prizes. There will be an opening reception and award presentation on March 10th from 5-7 p.m. The public is welcome to come see the remarkable work presented by our local teens.  FMI Contact info@bvaa.net.

A Community Favorite...10th Annual Art Palette Contest

ValleyCAST, the arts and culture arm of Open Sky Community Services, invited artists of all ages and abilities to transform ordinary wooden art palettes into unique works of art. The approximately 80 finished palettes will be hung together in the Spaulding R.

Aldrich Heritage gallery at the Alternatives’ Whitin Mill, 50 Douglas Road, Whitinsville, MA.

“The Art Palette Contest is so much fun!” says Cristi Collari, Director of Community Outreach for Open Sky, and curator of the Heritage gallery.

“People of all ages, abilities and walks of life start out with the same wooden art palette and they all come back looking so different! The ingenuity and creativity are simply amazing to look at all together on the gallery walls!”

Beginning Bridges Events

Beginning Bridges CFCE ‘s vision is that children, youth, and families reach their full potential now and in the future. Registration is required for all upcoming events. Links can be accessed on our website (Beginning BridgesCFCE.weebly.com) or contact Emily Murray at 508-278-5110 or Emurray@smoc.org.

UPCOMINg EVENTS:

Mondays to Fridays, Parent Child Playgroups, 9:00 to 10:45 am, at the Uxbridge Playcenter, 9 North Main Street, Uxbridge, lower left office.

Wednesday, 03/01/23, Coffee and Conversations, 9:15 to 10:15 am at Taft Public Library, 29 North Ave in Mendon, join us for an informal playtime where families will be able to build social connections, learn about early childhood development and family friendly resources. Muffins from Muffin House Cafe will be provided. Please stay for the 10:30 am Puppet Storytime.

Tuesday, 03/07/23, Music and Movement with Deb Hudgins, 10:30 to 11:00am at Upton Town Library. Check Library website for location and registration information.

Wednesday, 03/15/23, Music and Movement with Deb Hudgins, 10:30 to 11:00am at Whitinsville Social Library. Check Library website for registration information.

Thursdays, 03/02 – 3/16/23, Elephant, Piggy & Friends, 9:00 to 10:30 am, at Taft Public Library, 29 North Ave in Mendon, join us in playful exploration of sensory driven activities, art, and early literature favorites.

Saturday, 04/01/23, Free Kids Fair, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm, at the Whitin Community Center, 60 Main St. Whitinsville.

Saturday, 04/01/23, Free Eggstravaganza, 11:00 am – 11:45 pm, WCC’s Egg Hunt at the Whitin Community Center, 60 Main St. Whitinsville.

The opening reception is on Friday, March 10th, from 5:00-7:30 p.m. The community is welcome and encouraged to come to the free wine and cheese reception and vote for their favorite palettes. Cash prizes are awarded to first, second, and third place winners in three different age categories and determined by visitors’ votes. Some palettes are for sale. Voting ends on April 7th.

Exhibit ends on April 21st.

For more information about the contest, please visit openskycs.org/newsevents or to see photos of past winning art palettes, please visit Facebook. com/ValleyCAST. This event is sponsored by ValleyCAST, Jerry’s Artarama, and Open Sky Community Services.

Groundbreaking planned for Blackstone section of Trunkline

The Baker-Polito Administration recently announced that the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) will break ground on the Blackstone section of the Southern New England Trunkline Trail (SNETT) in Spring 2023, which is estimated to take approximately three years to complete. The $11.3 million project runs from the Saint Paul Street Bridge in the Town of Blackstone to the Massachusetts-Rhode Island state border and is the final half-mile of an approximately 4.2-mile section of DCR’s Blackstone River greenway. Additionally, this section of the green-

way is critical for the connection to Rhode Island’s Blackstone River Bikeway and also provides a regional connection to Douglas, MA, and the State of Connecticut through the SNETT.

“Since taking office, the Baker-Polito Administration has worked diligently to greatly expand the Commonwealth’s vast network of trails, which offer incredible economic, health, and transportation benefits, and access to the natural world that surrounds us,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Beth Card. “This Blackstone section is a vital part of the Southern

SMALL BUSINESS

New England Trunkline Trail that will not only connect communities, but two states together, enabling stronger bonds and better opportunities to explore nature.”

The SNETT is a recreational trail, owned and managed by DCR, along a former railroad corridor that runs approximately 22 miles from the Franklin State Forest in the Town of Franklin to the Douglas State Forest in the Town of Douglas. The SNETT passes through the towns of Bellingham, Blackstone, Douglas, Franklin, Millville, and Uxbridge and is one of the longest rail-trails in southern Massachusetts. Currently, most of the trail is gravel surface and is used for various recreational and transportation purposes. Additionally, a portion of the SNETT, including the section to be built in the Town of Blackstone, is part of the Blackstone River greenway,

an envisioned 50-mile greenway with a paved shared-use path connecting Providence, Rhode Island, and Worcester, Massachusetts.

“The Department of Conservation and Recreation is excited to commence work on the Blackstone section of the Southern New England Trunkline Trail this spring,” said DCR Commissioner Doug Rice. “The commitment by the Baker-Polito Administration to complete this section provides many benefits for residents, businesses, and visitors for years to come.”

The Blackstone project includes a single-span railroad viaduct and a sevenspan railroad viaduct on which the trail will be constructed. Both of these viaducts that will be rehabilitated as part of the project are important historic structures and cultural resources. Additionally, funding for the project is through the DCR Major Trails Capital

Program.

“I am grateful for the Baker-Polito administration and DCR’s investment in the Blackstone Valley,” said State Senator Ryan Fattman (R-Sutton). “This trail is a focal point for tourism in our area for those that love the outdoors, and this improvement will build upon that experience. By finalizing the connection between Blackstone and the MA-RI border, we will be opening the door for many outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy these trails in the Blackstone Valley.”

“I am excited to see work commence on the Blackstone section of the Southern New England Trunkline Trail,” said State Representative Michael J. Soter (R-Worcester). “I applaud DCR and the Baker Polito Administration for their work and commitment to bring towns of Southern New England.”

In 2018, DCR completed the 3.7-mile section from 146A in the Town of Uxbridge through the Town of Millville to the Saint Paul Street Bridge in Blackstone, MA, and in 2019, DCR completed the Canal Street Bridge. Rhode Island has also completed the bridge across the Blackstone River that connects to the Massachusetts border. Significantly, this project will complete the final link to the Massachusetts/Rhode Island border within a 23-mile intrastate greenway.

we learn your needs, we do

BVT Budget Subcommittee to hold Public Hearing

As the Blackstone Valley Vocational Regional School District 2022-2023 Budget Subcommittee prepares the FY24 annual budget, it remains committed to building a sustainable operational budget, mindful of its obligation to complement assessments requested of its thirteen member communities.

While there are many steps to creating an operational budget, the Budget Subcommittee embraces a multifaceted, mindful approach involving collaboration among its school community members and informed stakeholders.

From October to March each year, the Subcommittee has several working sessions to review, examine, and modify its proposed budget, which is submitted to the District School Committee for approval before it seeks districtwide support.

The FY24 proposed budget includes multiple mitigation strategies to reduce assessments. For example, BVT has secured in excess of $2 million in competitive grant funds. But grant funds, by

Mendon Antique Appraisal Show

design, do not serve as a renewable source for daily operational expenses. Therefore, blending local assessments with secured grant resources is highly beneficial. These external resources are only one of many cost-effective avenues pursued. Vocational-technical staff consistently work with facility personnel and students to make selfimprovements to the nearly 60-year-old facility.

The cost-effective approach of consistently competing and securing external revenue dollars has not gone unrecognized by the Finance Committee members who annually review the proposed budget request. Several have referred to the approach as wise and savvy.

The Budget Subcommittee is building a plan worth supporting. There will be a Public Hearing on March 23rd beginning at 5 p.m. in the Media Center at the school. 65 Pleasant St., Upton. It is an opportunity for residents to consider the proposed budget, which puts resources behind supporting student success.

Dust off those relics and join us as we discover which items may be priceless and which might end up in your yard sale! On March 25th the Mendon Historical Society will host its own Antique Appraisal Show. Kevin Bruneau, Travis Landry and Joel Bohy from Bruneau & Co. of Cranston RI will be available on site to appraise

your items for a small fee of $5.00 for one item and $10.00 for three and to answer questions about auctions, values, and trends. One of their items to appraise is “Pop Culture” including comic books, trading card games and toys. The event will take place from noon to 3 p.m. at the Museum located at 15 Hastings Street, Mendon.

Limited and handicapped parking is available in our yard and also additional parking across the street. Please join us for an interesting and informative afternoon. For additional information, contact them at mendonhistorical@ gmail.com.

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Providing the quality Physical Therapy you have come to expect over the past 30 years as well as our Wellness Program and more, all conveniently located in the Linwood Mill. Check our website for more information about our many programs or call!

Intrepid Readers Book Club to meet

On Tuesday, March 14th  at 6:30 PM, the Intrepid Readers of the Simon Fairfield Public Library, 290 Main Street, Douglas, will discuss Joshua Slocum's  Sailing Alone Around the World. Slocum died in 1909 and this book was published in 1956. He circumvented the world by way of the oceans in a 34 foot sloop; the venture took him 3 years. All are invited to come. Books, audio books and Libby copies are all available.

FMI call the Library at 508-4762695. Home baked treats inspired by the book will be offered as well.

Trapasso named to URI Dean's List

The University of Rhode Island is pleased to announce that Tori  Trapasso  of  Whitinsville  has been named to the Fall 2022 Dean's List. Students named to the Dean's List represent nearly all of Rhode Island's cities and towns, all six New England states, New York and New Jersey, and many other states and countries.

To be included on the Dean's List, full-time students must have completed 12 or more credits for letter grades which are gPA applicable during a semester and achieved at least a 3.30 quality point average. Part-time students qualify with the accumulation of 12 or more credits for letter grades which are gPA applicable earning at least a 3.30 quality point average.

To view the Dean’s list, visit: uri.edu/academics/deans-list/.

Corned Beef & Cabbage Dinner

St. Peter’s Parish in Northbridge is having a Corned Beef & Cabbage Dinner on Saturday, March 11th starting at 5:30 pm in the Parish Hall. Bring you family and friends for a wonderful meal and Irish Music by Alto Vista. Tickets are $17 per dinner and include potatoes, carrots, salad and dessert. To go meals will be available

for pick up at 5:00pm and all orders must be purchased in advance. “Pay It Forward” purchase an extra dinner and we will deliver it to someone in need in our local community. Please call the parish office at 508-234-2156 or email parishoffice@stpeterrockdale.org to purchase tickets or if you have any questions.

NE Country Music Club dances

The New England Country Music Club has announced their March events. On Sunday, March 5th the "Farm Hands" band will perform and on Sunday, March 19th the "Kerrie Evers" band will play. Doors open at

12:15 p.m, Music 1-5 for both dances. Events will take place at the Progressive Club located at 18 Whitin St., in North Uxbridge. FMI: http://www.Facebook.com/NECountry MusicClub.

Girls on the Run to hold Confidence Building Programs

girls on the Run of Worcester County will hold its program at over forty sites this Spring season and is currently seeking coaches for their sites at Uxbridge and Northbridge schools. girls on the Run is a physical activitybased, positive youth development program that uses fun running games and dynamic discussions to teach life skills to girls in 3rd to 8th grade. During the ten-week program, girls participate in lessons that foster confidence, build peer connections and encourage community service while they prepare for an end-of-season celebratory 5K event. In order for the program to run at Uxbridge sites Taft Early Learning Center and Whitin Intermediate school, girls on the Run is seeking additional coaches. Northbridge Elementary School is also seeking coaches in order to bring the life-changing curriculum to girls in the area. Each team requires at least two coaches to run the program. New coaches for the program are required to attend an in-person training session, to be held in March, to equip them with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead a team of girls.

Jennifer Bolt, a coach with girls on the Run throughout Fall 2022, stated that

her school “saw girls develop new friendships - both in the program and around school,” as well as “demonstrate great pride and excitement in knowing that they can run a 5K.” girl participants can sign up for any site across Worcester County, regardless of its status.

Participants will not be charged the registration fee unless and until their site has two trained coaches confirmed for the season, and will be notified if their site will not be facilitating the program for this Spring season. Amongst over forty sites to run this Spring season, the Whitin Community Center (WCC) is confirmed to run with a start date of March 29th. Participants will meet every Wednesday from 5:00 to 6:30 pm and every Saturday from 9 to 10:30 am for a total of ten weeks. All girls in grades 3 to 5 of any athletic ability are welcome to participate, and the Spring 5K will be held at Polar Park on June 10th.

Program registration is $175 and covers the program facilitated by trained coaches, a journal, a water bottle, a tshirt, the girls’ 5K registration fee, and a 5K medal. Financial assistance is available. FMI visit: www.gotr-worc. org.

On February 16th the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council (BVTC) dropped a gPS trackable object into the Blackstone River’s headwaters in Worcester. This object is called River Scout One, and is neon pink in color. River Scout One contains a waterproof gPS tracker, protective foam, and our River Scout mascot, Scuba Duck. River Scout One is the first of many capsule experiments BVTC will be conducting over the course of the year.

The Blackstone River is one of the most powerful rivers in the United States. It is 46 miles long and drops 438 feet from its headwaters in Worcester, all the way down to Narragansett Bay. Due to the heavy use of the river during the Industrial Revolution, the Blackstone River is still to this day the number one polluter of Narragansett Bay. Therefore, it becomes important that we discover how long it takes an object to get from the start of the Blackstone River to the end. This will make it easier for us to predict how different pollutants move in the river. We invite everyone to track River Scout One for themselves at rivertourblackstone.com/ site/river-scout-capsule.

If you wish to learn even more about the river, come join us aboard our Explorer River Tours, which are avail-

able for school field trips, after school programs, and public tours on the

weekends. You can also make a reservation to bring your class to our new River Classroom located at Central Falls Landing, and use our state-of-theart binoculars, microscopes and weather technology. Any questions or comments about the River Scout or classroom programs can be directed to the Director of River Education, Samantha Jackson. She can be reached at bvtcriverprograms@gmail.com or at 401724-2200 ext. 217.

Conservation District announces Plant & Seedling Sale March 24th

The Worcester County Conservation District (WCCD) is once again offering trees, shrubs, and flowering perennials for sale to gardeners and landowners.  The annual sale is a spring tradition going back fifty years.  Orders may be placed online or by phone from now until March 24, and will be available for pickup on Saturday, May 6th. There are six pickup locations throughout Worcester County.

The offerings include mainly native trees, shrubs, and flowering perennials, but also fruit trees, asparagus, blueberries, ferns, and more. The selection changes each year.

The plant sale is a fundraiser for the district, which assists landowners, foresters, and farmers with water quality, soil health, forest, and farm management.

To shop for plants and learn more about the District’s educational offerings, visit their website, www.worcesterconservation.org.

Founded in the 1940’s, Worcester County Conservation District (WCCD) is run by a board of local volunteers with a commitment to conservation in our home community.

~Society ~

Milford Cultural Council seeking area performers

The Milford Cultural Council (MCC) has opened up a call for cultural performers for the Celebrate Milford event in May 2023. The MCC is excited to collaborate with the Celebrate Milford Committee to bring performances that celebrate the diversity of cultures that exist in and around Milford. A portion of the event, scheduled for May 20th, will include featured performers selected by the MCC. The MCC has allocated funds for the purpose of attracting talented, established singers, dancers, musicians, and other entertainers.

“The greater Milford area boasts a diverse immigrant community and rich ethnic culture. When the council expressed a desire to present a program of entertainment that celebrates different cultures, it seemed a natural fit to partner with the Celebrate Milford committee. We are so pleased to be collaborating with them to add this new event to Celebrate Milford,” noted MCC Chair geri Eddins.

Singers, dancers, and other forms of entertainers that are representative of a cultural community are sought for the event. Interested performers must apply by March 17th, 2023. An online appli-

cation is available on the Milford Cultural Council page on the Town of Milford website. go to: MilfordMa. gov/milford-cultural-council and click “CALL TO PERFORMERS” in the left menu panel.

The MCC is part of a network of 329 Local Cultural Councils serving all 351 cities and towns in the Commonwealth.

The LCC Program is the largest grassroots cultural funding network in the nation, supporting thousands of community-based projects in the arts, sciences, and humanities every year. The state legislature provides an annual appropriation to the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency, which then allocates funds to each community The MCC seeks to promote excellence, inclusion, education and diversity in the arts, humanities, and sciences to foster a rich cultural experience for all Milford residents. The MCC welcomes ideas, recommendations, and feedback regarding programs and events funded or sponsored by the council.

Comments and requests for information can be emailed to the council at CulturalCouncil@TownofMilford.com.

Lent & Holy Week Events at First Congregational Church

The following events are planned at The First Congregational Church located at 307 Boston Road in Sutton, FMI: www.suttonfirstchurch.net.

THE QuiLT OF vALOR CEREMONy

The Douglas Adult Social Center recently held a special event celebrating local veterans Cecilia Stienstra and Kevin Morse. Thank you Lori Joubert for setting up this heartwarming event, Theresa Perrault for presenting the quilts and for sharing the beautiful story of how the Quilt of valor started. Last but not least, Representative Joe McKenna for presenting the citations.

Thank you Cecilia & Kevin for your service.

Lenten Midweek Meditations Each Wednesday during Lent on the First Church podcast, First Word from First Church suttonfirstchurch.net/firstwordpodcast or on Spotify, Apple, or Amazon podcast platforms Fun Family & Friends Night Friday, March 24th 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 get Acquainted, Soup & Sandwich, Crafts. Palm Sunday Worship April 2, 10:00 a.m. The Meetinghouse Word, prayer, and song for the beginning of Holy Week.

Palm Sunday Concert April 2, 7:00 p.m. The Meetinghouse Music of Lent and Easter by the Church Choirs and friends.

Maundy Thursday April 6, 7:00 p.m. Holy Communion & Tenebrae, The Meetinghouse Celebration of the Lord’s Supper. Remembrance of the Lord’s Passion in the Office of Tenebrae (Shadows).

good Friday April 7, 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. The Meetinghouse will be open for prayer.

Easter Sunrise Service April 9, 6:30 a.m. Town Common Welcome the Day of Resurrection with Word and Song! Easter Worship April 9, 10:00 a.m. The Meetinghouse Celebrate Christ’s Resurrection with Word, Prayer, and Song!

Yard Sale & Vendor Fair

Saint Peter’s Parish in Northbridge will be holding a Yard Sale and Vendor Fair on Saturday, June 3rd, 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on the church lawn. Rain date will be Saturday, June 10th. If you are moving, cleaning out a family member’s house, condo, apartment or just have too much clutter, give us a call. We will have our volunteers come and pick up your donated items. We are also looking for vendors for our yard sale on June 3rd, Vendor Table rental is $40. Please call or email the parish office to make an appointment for pick up, reserve a vendor table or if you have any questions: 508-234-2156 or email: parishoffice@stpeterockdale. org.

Area church offers People’s Coffee Hour

Every Tuesday starting from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Second Congregational Church of Douglas (289 Main St.), we are hosting a No Bible Experience necessary study including coffee and refreshments.

All attendees are welcome to anything from our food closet (includes fresh bread and vegetables) or kid's clothing closet.  All are welcome. Call Jeanie (508-476-9978) for more information. Sponsored by Walking In Light, Inc.

Sutton Historical Society 2023 Speaker Series

Mark your calendars!!  The Sutton Historical Society is excited to be hosting the following events in 2023. Presentations will be located at the First Congregational Church, 307 Boston Road, Sutton, MA and are made possible by a  2023 grant from the Sutton Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.

20 Nursing Students

Pinned

blackstone Valley Tech holds ceremony packed with promise

• April 4th @ 7:00 p.m.

The Nipmuc Lithic Trail Joe Iamartino, Thompson Historical Society

• May 9 @ 7:00 p.m.

Vintage Tweets: A Book of Suffrage

Era Postcards Carol Crossed, Curator, Susan B. Anthony Birthplace Museum

• September 5th @ 7:00 p.m.

Bathsheba Spooner: A Revolutionary Murder Conspiracy

It requires a solid education, skill, and compassion to become a nurse and care for patients. The Moonlight Program in Practical Nursing at Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School (BVT) is challenging and rewarding. Its graduates will tell you that pursuing life-changing training takes perseverance, dedication, and hard work.

The adult evening program recently recognized the achievements of the Class of 2023 during a pinning ceremony held at the school. Twenty proud graduates were pinned and received their nursing certificates, marking the culmination of one and a half years and over 1,090 hours of instruction balanced with work and family obligations.

The ceremony began with a warm welcome from Practical Nursing Coordinator Joann L. Monks, MBA, MSc, RN-BC, RMA, who spoke highly of the program and the accomplishments of the graduates, faculty, and staff to meet the objectives of the program. Monks said, "This class is beyond prepared to test for the

National Council Licensure Examination-Practical Nurses exam. We're proud of all you have accomplished in our time together."

Superintendent-Director Dr. Michael F. Fitzpatrick spoke about the need for skilled nurses. He said, "Well-trained, you are a valuable resource for the residents, hospitals, and health care providers of the Blackstone Valley and beyond." He also recognized two students, who chose to attend BVT not once but twice, graduates of BVT's Health Services program, Amanda Scott (Class of 2004) and Emily Donnelly (Class of 2019).

Class President Mary Driscoll gave a Class Address. The guest speaker, Assistant Nursing Director at Sterling Village, Jonathan Boutwell, LPN, congratulated the graduates on their journey to becoming nurses and making a

difference. In addition to the presentation of the certificates and pins, faculty and legislative awards (the Massachusetts House of Representatives Muradian, Murray, and Soter) provided certificates, and Prosper Amoah, Catherine Kagunda, and Tracey Silva received the Faculty Recognition Award. Representing the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Senators Ryan Fattman and Michael Moore congratulated the graduates on their chosen professions and promising careers as nurses.

If you're ready to take that next step toward a new and exciting career, one of the Moonlight Programs might be for you. The Practical Nursing program serves adult learners in District, out of District, and out of State. For more information, visit www.valleytech. k12.ma.us/practicalnursing.

Graduates of the “Moonlight Program” in Practical Nursing

senior corner

Douglas Adult Social Club Calendar

DAILY ACTIVITIES:

Monday: Painting class 9:45 to 11:45 a.m., Balance & Strength Exercise 12 p.m., Mat yoga 2 p.m.

Tuesday: Cribbage 9:30 a.m., Zumba 9:30 a.m., Bingo & lunch $4.00 11:30 a.m., Technology Class 1 p.m. by appointment only, Jenga or giant Connect 4 @ 2 p.m.

Wednesday: Balance & Strength 10 a.m., Mahjong 1 p.m.

Thursday: Yoga 9:30 am, Hand & Foot cards 1 p.m.

Friday: Balance & Strength 10 a.m.

The center has free masks available and COVID test kits for all residents. You may call the center for pick up. If you, yourself are sick or have been in contact with someone sick please stay in your car upon arrival, call the center and we will bring them out to you.

Center Programs: We have programs at the center to fit any age group. If you haven’t stopped in to visit us or take advantage of one of our many free programs we would love to meet you. We offer an ambassador program so, if it’s your first time visiting the center you won’t be alone, we will pair you up with a new friend give you a tour, and tell you about all our events.

Food insecurity: Sadly this is a reality for many seniors if you need assistance with food please call the center we will refer you confidentially to resources that can help.

The following activities require sign up before the day of the event. Some events are prepaid, you can stop in the center anytime to sign up or you may call the center to sign up.

MARCH EVENTS:

• Lunch & A Movie “Thirteen Lives” on Wednesday March 1 @ 12 pm. Cost for lunch is $4.00 per person. Please call the center to sign up, 508-476-2283

• Shamrock Wreath Craft on Thursday March 2 @ 11 am. There is no charge for this craft. Refreshments will be served. Please call the center to sign up, 508-476-2283

• grip Strength Presentation on Wednesday March 8 @ 11 am. Come in learn a little about strength and test yours with a hand held device. Refreshments will be served. Please call the center to sign up, 508-476-2283

• St. Patrick’s Day Celebration Wednesday March 15 @ 12 pm. Lunch will be corn beef and cabbage. Irish Duo “Fiddle Hill” will be playing 12:30 to 2:00 p.m. Please call the center to sign up, 508-476-2283

• Monday March 20, HAPPY FIRST DAY OF SPRINg!

• Easter egg making with strings on Thursday March 30 @ 11 am. Come in and try this craft with us and have a beautiful egg to display at home. Refreshments will be served. There is no charge for this event. Please call the center to sign up, 508-476-2283.

Check our website for events that may not be listed here https://www.douglas-ma.gov/202/Adult-Social-CenterSenior-Center.

Spring activities planned at Plummer Place

Plummer Place, the home of the Northbridge Senior Center announces the following events. The center is open Monday - Thursday 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. and Friday 8:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. FMI call 508-234-2002.

“Daily Coffee Time” at Plummer Place, 9-11:30 am, MondayFriday. We will be brewing up fresh coffee and putting out lite snacks. We hope to see many of you that have enjoyed this time in the past, and hopefully see some new faces!

It’s not too late to buy your 120 Club tickets. Drawings started Thursday, January 5th and will continue through May 18th. Tickets can be purchased at the Plummer Place front desk. FINE’s 120 Club has weekly drawings for a chance to win $20 each week and your number gets put back in so you can win more than once. The grand prize drawing is held on May 18th for a chance to win $500, $400, $300, $200 or $100.

Scrabble players will meet Mondays, March 6th, and 20th at 10:00am. We are always looking for new players! Call Jeanne to sign up.

“Planning for Medicare-Countdown to 65”: Tuesday, March 7th @ 10:30am. If you’re getting close to Medicare eligibility, this seminar is for you. Whether you are planning to retire

or will continue to work, it’s important to know your Medicare options. A Blue Cross Blue Shield of Mass representative will be here to help you navigate your health coverage decisions. Coffee and doughnuts will be served. Sign up in the main office.

New gentle Basic Yoga Class begins on March 7th @ 10:00am with instructor

Bobbi Tosti Anderson, RYT. All levels are welcome, modifications can be made as needed. Bring your own mat or use ours. $2/class.

Movie Afternoons are back!

Wednesday, March 8th @ 1:00pm we will be showing “Casablanca”. Popcorn and beverages will be served.

Veterans Services Rep, Carl Bradshaw will be here on Tuesday, March 14th at 10:30am for his office hour.

Salmon VNA Blood Pressure Clinic, Tuesday, March 14th from 11:00-12:00pm.

Women’s Discussion group will meet on Wednesday, March 15th at 1:00pm. Book Club will meet on Wednesday, March 15th at 9:45am. Please note the change in time for this date only. Call Michelle to find out what book we are reading.

“Take a Hike” will meet Tuesdays, March 14th and 28th, weather permitting, destination

to be announced. All walks start at 10:00am. Call Jeanne for more information.

“Virtual Tour of Fenway Park at Plummer Place”, Thursday, March 23rd @ 9:00am. Fenway Ambassador, Bobby DeCouteau will be our guide on this virtual tour of Fenway prior to this year’s Opening Day! At Fenway, Bobby greets special guests on game days, assists in the execution and direction of pregame ceremonies, and provides event support at special events. Wear your Red Sox gear! Light refreshments will be served. Sign up at the front office.

SMOC Fuel Assistance 2022-2023 deadline is 4/30/23. If you or someone you know is struggling financially due to this winter’s heating bills, the Fuel Assistance Program may help. This income-based program begins November 1st and helps defray the cost of winter heating bills with applications accepted until April 30, 2023. Our Center is processing applications for residents; families and individuals under SMOC. Call Jeanne White at the Center for assistance.

An important update regarding SMOC Fuel Assistance: they are extremely behind processing applications. They have received almost twice as many applications as last year and have been short staffed as well. SMOC is processing as quickly as they can, please be patient if you have applied.

Uxbridge Senior Center

March News

The following programs and activites will take place at the Uxbridge Senior Center located at 36 South Main Street.

FROM THE DIRECTOR

The Senior Center is proud to present a new Meditation Class that will be held at the center starting on Wednesday, March 15th from 9:30 am-10:15 am. Classes will be held once a week for 8 weeks with a requested donation of $25. The class instructor is Dr. David Tapscott who will be guiding the class participants with various mindful exercises. Benefits of Meditation include the following: Lowers stress-Reduces anxiety-Enhances mental health-Improve self-awareness-Increases concentration and attention span-Reduce memory loss-generates empathy and kindness-Improves sleep hygiene. For more information and to receive a registration packet, please call the senior center.

As of March 2nd, 2023, households will no longer receive SNAP emergency allotments (EA). In April, SNAP households will receive their regular SNAP awards, a significant decrease of at least $95/month. This is a federal decision and cannot be appealed. Since this significantly impacts over 240,000 older adults in Massachusetts, we have put together a few options that you might want to consider in order to assist you with this loss:

1. Report changes in out of pocket expenses to DTA;

2. Re-PIN your card to prevent “skimming”;

3. go to Mass.gov/ExtraCOVIDSNAP for more info;

4. Contact the People First Food Pantry at (508) 278-5506, the pantry is located at 19 Douglas Street in Uxbridge;

5. Consider attending the Senior Center for our congregate lunch program. This is a hot meal that is served Monday thru Friday at 12 noon; please call the Center to RSVP at (508) 2788622, a donation of $3 per meal is suggested but not required;

6. Contact TriValley to request Meals on Wheels, this is a nutritional program that requires eligibility criteria; please call to inquire at (508) 949-6640;

7. If you are in need, please DO NOT hesitate to contact the Senior Center for other resources to assist you. We are here to help!

Last call for Fuel Assistance!

The SMOC fuel assistance program for the winter season is ending soon. If you need help with your heating costs, please call the Center to make an appointment to apply or inquire about eligibility requirements.

If the Uxbridge School System is closed due to inclement weather, the Senior Center is closed for lunch! If in doubt, please call the Senior Center for updates.

Sincerely, Lisa

Stop by to pick up registration forms.

• Thursdays, March 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, & 30th – 2:45 pm – 3:30 pm –New 8-week Low Impact Exercise Class continues at the McCloskey School! $25.00 donation. Stop by to pick up your registration forms.

Friday, March 3rd – 12:00 pm – Lunch & Learn with Chief Montminy. guest speaker will be Michele Ellicks from Registry of Motor Vehicles and her topic will be the “Real ID”.

• Tuesday, March 7th – 1:30 pm –Making St. Patrick’s Day gnomes with Sally! - $7.00 donation each. Call ahead to RSVP.

• Tuesday, March 14th – 1:00 pm –Uxbridge Library Book Club. They will be reading The Bullet That Missed by Richard Osman. You are welcome to join us for lunch on this day.

• Tuesday, March 14th – 1:00 pm –Benefit Enrollment Specialist – TriValley, Inc. Call the senior center to book an appointment with Katelynn Wackell. Next date will be April 11th.

• Wednesday, March 15th, 22nd & 29th – 9:30 am – 10:15 am – New 8-week Meditation Class at the Uxbridge Senior Center with Dr. Tapscott. $25.00 donation. Stop by to pick up your registration forms.

NO LUNCH at the senior center on this date. Please RSVP by March 9th!

• Tuesday, March 21st – 1:00 pm –4:00 pm – Shopping Trip to Savers with Sally! Please call or stop in to RSVP as seating is limited.

• Wednesday, March 22nd – 1:30 pm –3:30 pm – BINgO at the Uxbridge Senior Center. Join us for a fun afternoon of BINgO & cash prizes! Packets of 10 games for $10. Refreshments can be purchased and transportation provided. Let us know if you’d like to join us for lunch on this date by calling or stop in to RSVP.

• Thursday, March 23rd – 11:30 am12:30 pm – “PopUp Library”. Books will be on display to check out, library card sign-ups, book hold pick-ups, etc. This program being offered by the Uxbridge Free Public Library.

• Friday, March 24th – 12:00 pm – New Event ~ Quarterly lunch talk with the Uxbridge Fire Department. The UFD has graciously agreed to meet with us on a quarterly basis to provide education and outreach. They are sponsoring our Friday luncheon. Please be sure to RSVP for this special event!

CARD gAME played on Monday and BINgO on Wednesday during our congregate lunches.

AARP TAx APPOINTMENTS

on Mondays from 8:30 am – 11:30 pm.

COMPUTER CLASS TUTORINg every Monday – 3:00 pm by appointment only. Please call ahead to sign up.

HANNAFORD

gROCERY SHOPPINg

every Tuesday. Pick up begins at 8:30 AM. Please sign up in advance by calling us at 508-278-8622 to reserve your seat on the van.

KNITTINg CLUB every Tuesday @ 1:30 pm – Come join the fun!

ERRAND RIDES

1st and 3rd Wednesdays – March 1st & 15th – Bank & Pharmacy Rides. Please call at least 24 hours in advance.

“CANASTA” HAND, KNEE & FOOT CARD gAME

Wednesday 1:00 pm – 3:30 pm. There will not be a game on Wed. March 22nd. No Canasta on March 22nd.

SHAWS/OCEAN STATE RIDES

ACTIVITIES:

• Wednesday, March 1st – 12:00 pm –Rescheduled Event: The greendale Retirees Chorus will be here to serenade us during lunch! Be sure to RSVP if you would like to join us for lunch.

• Thursday, March 2nd – 10:30 am –Veterans’ Services with Carl Bradshaw by appointment only. Call 508-2788622 to sign up.

• Thursdays, March 2nd, 9th, 16th 23rd & 30th – 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm – New 8week ZUMBA Class continues at the McCloskey School! $25.00 donation.

• Thursday, March 16th – 8:30 am –Podiatrist Dr. Biancamano will be available for appointments. Please call ahead to book yours.

• Thursday, March 16th – Annual St. Patrick’s Day Celebration sponsored by the Uxbridge Elderly Connection Inc. Entertainment will be provided by ‘Dublin Down’ Live Irish music! Call ahead to reserve your lunch!

• Friday, March 17th – UHS Drama Club Presents “gREASE”. Show starts at 10:00 am and a free lunch will be served after the dress rehearsal by the UHS Culinary Art Class! There will be

• Monday, March 27th - 1:30 pm –“Ask the Attorney” with Attorney Ralph Tepper by appointment only. Please Call 508-278-8622 to schedule your appointment at the Uxbridge Senior center.

• Tuesday, March 28th - 11:00 am –12:00 pm – Ask the Nurse Free Blood Pressure Clinic with Nancy Favulli, Salmon Health VNA. RSVP to participate and to join us for lunch.

• Tuesday, March 28th – 1:30 pmButton Flower Craft with Sally! $7.00 donation. Call or stop by to RSVP!

• Friday, March 31st – 1:00 pm –Bunny String Art with Sally! $7.00 donation. Please call or stop by to RSVP!

2nd & 4th Thursdays – March 9th & 23rd – 8:30 am - Shaws/Ocean State Shopping Rides. Please call at least 24 hours in advance.

MEDICAL TRANSPORT

Medical Transportation is accepting appointments. Call 508-278-8622 to schedule your rides.

The senior center is in need of the following donations: Lysol wipes, newly packaged napkins, paper towels, tissues, toilet paper, ground regular & decaf coffee.

Feel free to contact us at 508-2788622 or visit us at Uxbridge-ma.gov/ coa or like us on our FB page or by googling Uxbridge Senior Center and our new YouTube Channel or . www.Facebook.com/UxbridgeMASeniorCenter,

Whitinsville Christian School

Honor Roll

gRADE 6

HIgH HONORS

Elise Bastien, Molly Chambers, Sophie Finch, Jack Foppema, Anya Hruzd, Vanessa Kline, Audrina Lucas, Dawson Martinka, Ethan McCabe, Elyse Mcgee, Kaylee Monast, Joseph Monteiro, Sienna Roach, Emma Simao, Clarisse Tatulli, Mason Thakkallapalli, Effrosyni Tzimo-gianni, Arielle Zdanis

HONORS

Olivia Barnatt, Isaac Besong, Mackenzie Brower, Joao Victor Carvalho, Thomas Cintolo, Kent Cote, Poliane Da Silva, Kaleb DeWeerd, Aidan Domenico, Eliza gaudiano, graedan gould, Samuel Johnson, Isabella Menard, Mason Moesker, James Nelson, Abigail Place, Makayla

Sedzro

gRADE 7

HIgH HONORS

Neriah Bagaya, Jacob Beatty, Judah Freitas, Isabelle gava, Chloe Kelly, Ryleigh Shanahan, Yvette Solorzano, Michael Vos

HONORS

Lara Alves, Thomas Barry, Emily Breault, Cadence Calarese, Brianna Cardoza, Annika Corkran, Casrae DesJardins, Alec gazda-Tran, Tessa grelewicz-Ferreira, Joshua Hilgenberg, Cameron Houde, Jack Johnson, Katelyn Keeler, Evan Kling, Raegen McAlister, Kailen Murzycki, Madeline Olkowski, Trinity Patrick, Jacob Pitts, Celine Tran, Ian Weilding

gRADE 8

HIgH HONORS

Isabella Aloise, Nathan Bagaya, Emily Bastien, Samantha Boria, Aberlin Cwiakala, Avery Dertien, Audyn DeWeerd, Abby Flagg, Emily Flagg, Mollaigh Flannery, Lucia gaudiano, Jude goodson, Aimee Jolicoeur, Hailey Kindl, Emma MacCarthy, Elliot McCabe, Julia Monteiro

Meah Ryan, Ruth Stenbuck, Elisavet

Tzimogianni, Nathanael Vos

HONORS

Wyatt Abongwa, Amelia Besong, Amelia Bowler, Charlotte DeFrancisco, gabriel

Deters, Enson Enoch, Ian Finch, Finch Harvey, Indiana Hollibaugh, Max Kinne, Joshua LaBonte, Dominik McAlister, Nolan Mcgee, Eamon Moloney, Neola

Nigh, Chase O'Connell, Sophia Robbins, Amelia Rufo, Brinley Rufo, Lincoln Shaw, Emma Whitsitt

gRADE 9

HIgH HONORS

Madison Amati, Kacy Brochu, Emily Burkhart, Maxwell DeFrancisco, Elijah Fortna, Brinley gonneville, Jack Hutchinson, Faith Najem, Maria Ramos, Kyria Sedzro, Justin Smith

HONORS

Joao Victor Dasilva, Micah Deters, Orla Donnelly, Matthew Dudley, Eli Focht, Noah garrant, Ethan Hand, Camden Morse, Emily Oatis, Ludmilla Silveira, Lilly Wierenga, Matthew Wren, Brian Wright, Mark Yarger

gRADE 10

HIgH HONORS

Charlotte Bartlett, Jack Carlin, Amanda Cinelli, Rebeca Dasilva, Emelyn DeWeerd, george Foint, Eve gergis, Julia gibbons, Braden gorman, Jocelyn Hackathorn,

Ashley Jeong, Isabelle Kling, Julia Lawson, gillian Mcgee, Charbel Najem, Logan

O'Connell, Hannah Ostroff, Rosemary Poe, Scarlett Shaw, Alison Sim, Corbin Swaim, Claire Tubo, Emma Wierenga

HONORS

Caden Anema, Mason Barnatt, Katherine godin, Bradley Jolicoeur, Hyun Joon Kim, Jacob Piascik, Quinnlan Rice, Hannah Walton, georgia West

gRADE 11

HIgH HONORS

Asher Bell, Caleb Deters, Ethan Enoch, Maria Fletcher, Kaylin Fogg, Annika Fortna, Colin gava, Avery glidden, Sining

guo, Ava Ibrahim, William Johnson, Kelly

Keeler, Makenna Kitchen, Adrienne

Marshall, Jaquelyn McNamara, Meadow

O'Connell, Elyssa Pastor, Hayden Plourde, Nathan Romine, Isabella Silveira, Declan Smith, Justin Vos

HONORS

Ella Brochu, Molly Burkhart, Zachary

Casey, Noelle Champigny, Samuel Christo, grace Conners, Kathleen Crowley, James Dudley, Camdyn Forget, Matthew godin, Evan Hand, Margaret Johnson, Sean Mcgrath, Victoria McNamara, Delia

News

Moloney, Carlie Paharik, grace Walton, Alexandra Weedon, Eme Wyndham, Erin Wyndham

gRADE 12

HIgH HONORS

Allison Anema, Tobias Bowler, Allison

Cinelli, Emily Dill, Eliana Dishington, Trinity Ezedi, Aidan giunta, grace Hart, Ethan Macgillivray, Bella Roberge, Abigail

Shimko

HONORS

Nicolas DeNorscia, Colin Deres, Angelina Dicolella, Fiona Donnelly, John Dudley, Alexondra Foster, Victoria Fredericks, Noah Massotti, Peter McHugh, Hannah Pollitt, Margaret Redding, Lucas Silveri, Elijah Tetreault, Michael Vardis school

Our Lady of the Valley lists Honor Students

gRADE 8

Allison Horrigan

Natalie Johnson

Sylvia Lemire

Diana Pacheco

Elena Pacheco

Emmanuel Ramla

Jacob Vaidya

gRADE 7

Julia Colonero

Savannah Hendricks

Julianna Kay

Isabella Lima

Cormac O’Neil

Katelyn Siciliano

gRADE 6

Mikayla Elhosri

Reese Hendricks

Madeline Hurley

Luke Hutchinson

Laura Jordao

Teddy Pino

gavin Pintarich

Thomas Rosborough

gRADE 5

Kathryn Britt

Peter Colonero

Allison Creighton

Zephaniah Fritz

William Horrigan

Emelia Tibbo

Emma Wickstrom

gRADE 4

Angelina Lucchetti

Joseph Podles

Felicity Walek

HONORS

gRADE 8

Trinity Cheshier

Parker DaCosta

Nicholas gebarowski

Troy Hafers

Nolan Pinchuck

Abigail Siciliano

Cameron Vaidya

gRADE 7

Rebecca Daly

Isabella Kay

Addisyn McCrohan

Ishani Patel

Sarah Pomeroy

Lile Twohig-Mann

Emmaline Walek

Lillian Wickstrom

gRADE 6

Isabella Bardon

Lily Bolender

Dylan gallagher

Zachary Hafers

Emily Johnson

Brynn Kent

Albert Lucchetti

Leo Pino

Eleanor Susienka

gRADE 5

Matthew Auger

Anthony Baldwin

Charlee Bellefeuille

Cameron Berger

Nolan Calnan

gavin Chapman

Andrew gebarowski

Aimee Talbot

Molly Till

Nathan Weed

gRADE 4

Jacob Carter

Abigail Cook

Maddox Devaney

Catalina goncalves

Caelyn Kent

Sophia Pica

Liam Roy

graeme Pintarich

Uxbridge H.S. announces

Honor Roll

gRADE 8

high honors:

Ammar Alomar, Bradley Anderson, Iain

Andrews, Connor Antobenedetto, Nicholas Arruda, Clarah Avery-Boyer, Aubrey

Beland, gabriela Belanger, Ava Cahill, Hadassah Calixto, Susana Casper, Isabela

Chapman, Skylar Daniels, Foao de Souza-Rodrigues, Parker Dery, Miranda

El Turkamani, Ava Fenner, Daniel

Ferreira, Alyssa Friis, Savhannah gassett, Nathan goryl, Cameron gray, Brian

guertin, Matthew Hicks, Jordan Hilgenberg, William Hinchcliffe, Samantha

Huth, Lucas Jastremski, Brooklyn Kaferlein, Emrie Kling, Madison Labonte, Julie

Lafontaine, Joshua Lavergne, Charlotte

Lewis, Sydney Loiselle, Mary Lowrey, Dominic Mastroianni, Adam Morrissette, Benjamin O’Neill, Mia Ouellette, Zackary Pelletier, Emma Peloquin, Lauren Pitner, Charlie Roy, Hannah

Samolinski, Samolinski, Noah, Rachel

Scott, Chawanvi Sillapachairuang, Madilyn Silva, Caroline Simonds, Lelia

Sjogren, Sarah Stark, William Stark, gabriel Stone, Kai Torku, Kumani Torku,

Samuel Weeks, Phoenix Zereski

honors

Lilliana Ambrosino, Ava Bazinet, Addie

Blood, Aubrey Bouchard, Blake Burr, Madison Cammuso, Alex Channing, Dolan Comforti, Aiden Costigan, Ashton

David, Emma Frazier, Brianna Fuoss, Caleb gaulitz, Allie gauthier, Olivia

gauthier, Mallorie Hallfelder, Ian Heim, Felix Harrera, Elaina Horgan, Brynn

Hosley, Logan Lalakidis, Mathias

Lalakidis, Ella-Mae Libby, Braelyn

Matheson, Lilianna McClintock, Kaia

Mollica, Nathan Oliveira, Caiden

Pellegrino, Nicolis Polselli, Aidan Power, Annabel Smutok, Aryannah Vespa, Erik Ward, Madison Webber, Addison

Whitney

honorable Mention

Aaron Alves-Thomas, Sofia Denietolis, Ethan DeVito, Abigail Donahue, Charley

Dorr, george Eissa, Benjamin Ferrage, Lindsay genoa, Nathan Harris, Tyler

Joyce, Amir Julien, Maxwell Kammerer, John Lannigan, Blake Oliver, Vibhav

Patel, Samuel Plumer, Katherine Pratt, Frederick Romano, Benjamin Russin Jr., gavin Scardino-Poillucci, Kole Silvestro, Lukas Tierney, Zachary Veneziano, Kaleb Wallance, Drew Wilson, Benjamin Yoffe

gRADE 9

high honors: Aidan Arsenault, Novelle Bousquet, gaurav Boyalla, Sebastian Bradwin,

Lauren Cabral, Morgan Charbonnier, Kason Chludenski, Brady Esposito, Alison Fleming, Zachary Fortier, Kendall gilmore, Lola grube, Mazen Hamza, Ethan LaChapelle, Julianna Lopes, Daniel Mach, Brayden Mackin, Niamh McSweeney, Erin O’Day, Julia Okenquist, Keira Paul, Liam Powers, Jake Richardson, Jacob Rivet, Erin Roche, McKenna Savage, Andrew Tamsky, Eabha TwohigMann, grady Walsh, Austin Walusiak

honors:

Alexander Aldrich, Ella Bain, Fabio Barbosa, Taylor Bettencourt, Amelia Blood, Malaika Cabrera, Carlos Cante Hernandez, Adriana Cugini, Hunter Douangsavanh, Heidi Doyon, Colin Dwyer, Logen Erickson, Sophia Freire, Caleb gonyea, Lily LaLiberte, Cameron McIsaac, Migui Medeiros, Liam Ramirez Palmer, Cameron Savoie, Riley Spicer, Brian Stumpf, Jacob Tavares, Zachary Tilton

honorable Mention: Jeremy Barry, Kaleb Chabot, Tyler Constantineau, Flood Jadyn, Joshua Fontes, Tyler Kavanaugh, Camden LaChapelle, Wilson Obiocha, Krish Patel, Matthew Perron, Alex Rivera, Emmalyn Romano, Jullian Rosenburg, Thatcher Sweeney, Zachary Turcotte, Cody Veneziano

gRADE 10

high honors:

Ali Alomar, Maria Aprili, Elyse Bouchard, Victoriana Chapman, Sydney Daniels, Maxwell Deary, Rogan Devlin, Timothy Devlin, Bailey Dzivasen, Evelyn Ferreira, Katharine Fox, Lillyanna gallant, Alicia gauvin, Shane gilmore, Addison griffiths, Alyson Haley,

Matthew Hinchcliffe, Sumeyye Koyuncu, Milla Mace, Macen Martone, Aidan Nolan, Darren Oliver, Danielle Olson, Natalie Orr, Brianna Pare, Olivia Pirrotta, Maxwell Roy, Stella Roy, Alanna Russell, Hunter Schiller, Dominic Silva, Rylee Spear, Michael Stark, Landon Sweet

honors:

Joshua Alt, Joao Fernando De Oliveira, Ewan Fortin, Dominick genoa, Shane guillette, Thatcher Kling, Shawn

Lemovitz, Abigaile Oliveira, Diya Patel, Bruno Sampaio, James Sanford, Colin Spencer, Caroline Usenia, Ashton Watt, Julia Wilczewska, Denning Yoffe

honorable Mention: Hope Beroth, Catherine Buma, Jenna

Devine, Jillian Dimo, Justin El Turkmani, Briana Ferschke, Hunter Fontaine, Chase

Henault, Hunter Levesque, Isadora Malta, Lily Ramage, Madison Silbor, Jack

Sullivan, Jamal Uddin, Cassady Westcott

gRADE 11

high honors:

Rylie Beland, James Bernard, Aidan

Blood, Benjamin Bourgeois, Kathryn

Cahill, Braden Cammuso, Cameron Caso, Brynn Doherty, Syrianna Douangsavanh, Madison Fairweather, Olivia gray, Oliva

Holden, Catherine Hughes, Hailey

Kinyanjui, Kellen Lachapelle, grace

Linsley, Jessica Lutton, Aiden MarquezLeRoy, Sara Morton, Brianna Moss, gage Nichols, Samuel Noel, Sean

O’Day, Ella Pezzullo, Phetmany

Phianesin, Phoenix Cooper, Avari

Powers, Benjamin Roerden, Payson Roy, Lincoln Schiller, Christopher Szajna, Siobhan Twohig-Mann, Zoe Wojnowski, Elizabeth Yarger

honors:

Rosario Astorga, Mason Baptista, Dylan Bibeault, Luke Boisvert, Parin Boyalla, Ashley Brodeur, Emma Demers, Matthew DiLibero, Jack Emmons, Luke Esposito, Andrew Flynn, Nathan Fuoss, Jalyn gingras, Brianna Hughes, Samantha Jones, Cassidy Leach, Kamryn Leroy, Jackson Livingstone, Iris Marcello, Luke McCuin, Bradley Sadd, Mason Sanford, Matthew Thayer, Cheyanne Uvezian, Emma Walker, Brayden Wilcox

honorable Mention:

Alanah Allard, Thomas Costa, Veda Cotter, Carter gilmore, Mar Iacovelli

Schweibish, Juliana Kumah, Kahlea Lachapelle, Elizabeth Lewis, Sophia Mone, Frank Osimo, Jack Phoenix, Liam Rigney, Joseph Romasco, Sebatian Soares, Samuel True, Victoria Williams Huth, Lily Wood gRADE 12

high honors:

Maren Anderson, Samara Barry, Lily Brayman, Kamryn Brodeur, Kelsey Brooks, Victor Cardoso-Collins, Julie Compston, Sophie Compston, Sean Costa, Joshua Cristina, Myah DeLang, Jessie DeMalia, Jason Fontes , Carl Nathan gallawan, Tanner gauthier, Evan grube, Avery guillette, Samantha Hinchcliffe, Paige Irving, Tia Jacobs, Sameer Khan, Eleanor Kimball, Lex Lovell, Timothy Makynen, Patrick McDonnell, Isabella Nolan, Matthew O’Neill, Zachary Oliveira, grace Orr, Morgan Ouellette, Alexandria Patterson, Kylie Paul, Julia Philbrook, Audrey Phillips, Olivia Phillips, Casey Prior, Tyler Richardson, Theodore Rigney, Makayla Ross, Aidan Russell, Abigail Sanches, Sadie Schultzberg, Meghan Smith, Troy Spencer, Jack Tasick, Sabrina Tibedo, Madison Tousignant, Braeden Watt, Megan Wingfield

honors:

Dominick Alicea, Katie Cullen, Domenic D’Araujo, Dylan Donahue, Logan Donnelly, Drew gniadek, Briana Hawes, Colleen Kenny, Alan Mages, Trevor Masnyk, Edson Mendes, Chris Reid, Aidan Ross, Lindsey Vario

“Proudly

honorable Mention: Emma Brothers, Anthony Fair, Christopher Lincoln, Tyler McIsaac, Laela Pendleton, Tyler Picotte, Kaydence Small

Xaverian Brothers post Honor Roll

Dr. Jacob Conca, Head of School at xaverian Brothers High School, is pleased to announce the xaverian Brothers High School Honor Roll. There are three designation levels: Ryken Honors indicates all marks are A- or above, First Honors indicates all marks are B or above, Second Honors indicates all marks are B- or above

MENDON

Conor Belleville, 10th, Ryken Honors

Michael Albert, 8th, Ryken Honors

Shane Belleville, 11th, First Honors

Jonathan Santosuosso, 8th, First Honors UxBRIDgE

Nathaniel Badzmierowski, 10th, First Honors

xaverian Brothers High School is one of 13 xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools in the United States. It is a college-prep day school for boys in grades 712. For more information visit www.xbhs. com.

Milford Regional announces Consigli as incoming Board Chair

More than 125 people attended Milford Regional Medical Center’s January 23 Annual Meeting of the Corporation, held via Zoom. In addition to discussing the recent challenges within the healthcare care industry and Milford Regional’s Year in Review, the hospital’s 2023 Milford Regional Medical Center and Milford Regional Physician group Board of Trustees officers were introduced by outgoing Board chair Laura Mann.

“These are difficult times for hospitals everywhere and having involved and dedicated Board members to assist the leadership of the hospital is so very critical,” said Mann, who served on the Board for the last nine years and was the first woman chair. “I’m proud of the steps the Board has taken in recent years to diversify and involve so many new community members and the success of our hospital is the result of the hard work of our employees, our leadership and the Board.”

The 2023 Milford Regional Medical Center and Milford Regional Physician group Board of Trustees slate of officers include Chair Anthony M. Consigli  (Consigli Construction Co., Inc.), Vice  Chair Brian J.  Earley  (NPP Development/Kraft group), Clerk Denise  Brookhouse  (Koopman Lumber Company), and Treasurer gordon A.  Lewis  III (Altman and Company).

Consigli  is the chief executive officer of Consigli Construction Co., Inc., one of the largest general contractors in the northeast and headquartered in Milford. He has served on the Milford Regional Medical Center and Milford Regional Physician group Board of Trustees since 2019 and on the  Milford Regional Healthcare Foundation Board of Trustees from 2004 through 2016.  Recently, Consigli and his wife, Susan, chaired the hospital’s Mélange 2022 gala benefit, which raised a record-breaking $1.1 million.

“I’m very proud to be serving as Board chair,” Consigli said. “Milford Regional is fortunate to have so many valued community members who have supported the hospital since its founding nearly 120 years ago.”

Brian J. Earley  joined Milford Regional as a Corporator in January 2020 and began serving as a member of the hospital’s Finance Committee at that time. He is the vice president and general manager of NPP Development, a Kraft group company, headquartered in Foxborough.

Denise Brookhouse  joined the Milford Regional Medical Center and Milford Regional Physician group Board of Trustees in January 2020 and continues to serve on the hospital’s Finance Committee. She is the chief financial officer of Koopman Lumber

Company, headquartered in Whitinsville.

gordon Lewis III  joined Milford Regional as a Corporator and served as a Milford Regional Medical Center and Milford Regional Physician group Trustee since 2017. For the last 30 years, he has been a partner with Altman and Company, a financial consulting business headquartered in Milford.

In addition to the Board officer slate announcement at the meeting, President and Chief Executive Officer Milford Regional Medical Center and Healthcare System Edward J. Kelly reflected on the challenges the healthcare industry has faced over the last year, explaining COVID-19 continues to be at the forefront of those challenges. Consequently, like most hospitals, Milford Regional faced high patient acuity and volume and staffing issues throughout 2022.

According to Kelly, the pandemic also caused significant financial impacts to the hospital, resulting in a $14 million operating loss in 2022. “Many of the contributing factors of this loss were out of our control,” he explained. “So, our focus was to look at what we could control, and largely it was to take care of our community in the COVID-19 era.”

Despite those challenges, Kelly highlighted a number of Milford Regional’s accomplishments in 2022 including receiving a 5-star rating for quality and safety from the Centers for Medicare

and Medicaid Services, and  receiving an “A” from the 2022 Leapfrog Hospital Safety grade; a national distinction recognizing the hospital’s achievements in protecting patients from accidents, injuries, errors, and infections. Milford Regional also received its re-accreditation from The Joint Commission following a site visit focused on the hospital’s collective commitment to high quality patient care and safety.

In addition to Kelly, Chief Medical Officer Peter Smulowitz, MD, MPH and Milford Regional Physician group President Patrick McSweeney, MD pre-

sented at the meeting.

Smulowitz reflected on the difficulties both patients and medical staff faced in 2022 as the third year of COVID comes to an end. He also spoke on this winter’s “tridemic” of COVID, influenza and RSV, which severely impacted emergency department wait times and placed a difficult burden on the clinician workforce. McSweeney discussed clinician recruitment efforts over the last year, naming more than 30 new providers who have joined the Milford Regional team.

FMI on the meeting or 2022 Annual Report visit milfordregional.org.

ANTHONy M. CONSiGLi

Free UNIPAY Seminar for Businesses & Non-Profits

UniBank will be sponsoring a free UniPay Online Payment Solution Meetup for businesses and non-profit organizations who are interested in offering online payment as a solution to customers/donors. It's a simple fact: customers today expect the convenience of making payments online. UniPay by UniBank is simple, efficient, secure, reliable, and can help your business or non-profit increase efficiencies. The solution is customizable and offers your business or non-profit the ability to accept payments securely 24/7. Join Kristy genga, AVP from UniPay

Whitby, MD joins Physicians Group

by UniBank for a 45-minute webinar on Thursday, March 2nd, 2023 at 1:00 p.m.  to learn how this solution can help your business or non-profit and enhance your revenue collections!

All attendees will be entered to win a $250 UniPay Setup Fee Coupon. Register at unibank.com. Sweepstakes to win UniPay Setup Fee Coupon is subject to complete official rules which are available at  www. unibank.com. To enter, individuals must register and attend the meeting. No purchase or account required to enter or win.

Colette Whitby, MD, FACS, has joined Milford Regional Physician group (MRPg) and will see patients at Milford Regional’s Breast Center, 14 Prospect Street, Milford. She joins Dr. Diana Caragacianu, Physician Assistant Tracy Kuck, and Nurse Practitioner Monique Burchard.

Dr. Whitby comes to MRPg from Sturdy Medical Associates in Attleboro, where she practiced breast and general surgery. Prior to Sturdy, Dr. Whitby worked for Harrington Hospital for eight years, specializing in adult and pediatric general surgery. While at Harrington, she was a cancer liaison physician, instrumental in helping the hospital’s cancer center obtain ACS accreditation, and also actively participated in a variety of quality and safety committees.

Dr. Whitby earned her medical degree from Brown University and is board certified in surgery. She completed her internship and residency in general surgery at Rhode Island Hospital and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center; and completed her residency in pediatric surgery at Boston Children’s Hospital. A native of Woonsocket, R.I., Dr. Whitby currently resides in Uxbridge.

Patients at Milford Regional’s nationally accredited Breast Center can expect an individualized, multi-disciplinary team approach for all screening, diagnostic, high-risk evaluation and cancer treatment needs and, when necessary, a seamless collaboration with DanaFarber/Brigham and Women’s Cancer Center at Milford Regional. FMI visit: www.milfordregional. org/medical-services/womens-health/the-breast-center/ Dr. Whitby is currently accepting new patients and can be reached at 508-482-5439. For information about MRPg visit www.milfordregionalphysicians.org, or Facebook @ MilfordRegionalPhysiciangroup, or contact our New Patient Liaison at 1-833-gET-MRPg.

UniBank announces recent promotions

UniBank, the largest Mutual Community Bank in Central Massachusetts, recently announced the promotions of Sean O’Connell (formerly Chief Banking Executive), Kristin Sawash (formerly Commercial Banking Officer) and Brennan Campbell (formerly Commercial Banking Officer).

Sean O’Connell has been promoted to Chief Lending Officer. Sean will lead all lending areas; Commercial, Business Banking, Consumer, Mortgage, Specialty Lending and Cash Management. Sean has been with the Bank since 2016 and has held various management positions, both in the Commercial and Consumer areas.

Kristin Sawash and Brennan Campbell have been promoted to Senior Commercial Banking Officers. Kristin has predominantly worked with commercial C&I customers and Brennan with the bank’s commercial CRE clients.

Michael Welch, CEO of UniBank, said, “Sean, Kristin, and Brennan have demonstrated exceptional commitment and best practices for UniBank’s customers, directly noticeable in our strong Worcester County footprint for Business and Commercial banking. All three promotions were immensely deserved and we’re looking forward to their continued leadership throughout 2023.”

Veronique Dolce Promoted - Michael Welch, CEO of UniBank, said, “Veronique has done an exceptional job for UniBank since she joined 8 years ago. What makes Veronique successful is the way she comes to personally know her customers thus allowing her to best address their banking needs. This promotion is well-deserved and we’re looking forward to benefiting from Veronique’s leadership at our Worcester branch.”

UniBank is dedicated to contributing to the overall quality of life and economic health of the communities it serves, while maintaining a high level of financial soundness and integrity. UniBank is an Equal Housing Lender and Member FDIC and Member DIF.  UniBank NMLS #583135. The company website is www. unibank.com.

UniBank Wins Awards

UniBank, the largest Mutual Community Bank in Central Massachusetts, has recently won two awards for banking. Readers of the Telegram & gazette voted UniBank as the “Best Bank of Central Massachusetts” while readers of the Worcester Business Journal voted UniBank as the “Best Bank” within the Best of Business awards for the 10th year. Michael Welch, CEO of UniBank stated, “It’s humbling to receive such recognition from the community which we serve.  Such validation from the people who live and work in Central Massachusetts serves as further inspiration for all of us at UniBank. As the largest financial institution headquartered in Worcester County these awards are a testament to the hard work, and commitment of our employees to our mission as a mutual bank.  As a non-stock bank, our mission can be fully about the people, institutions and needs of our community, as distinct from serving the needs of stockholders and share price from across the country.  To receive these awards, voted by individuals who live in our communities, including those who own/run businesses, is an endorsement that we are large enough to serve a wide variety of personal and business needs, yet, not too big to know people by name. We are thankful for the faith and trust that the community has in us.”

Sean O’Connell

Kristin Sawash veronique Dolce

Brennan Campbell

RE firm donates over $71K to charties

Since its inception in April of 2019, Premeer Real Estate has proudly donated $71,250 for local charities and non-profit organizations through its Premeer gives Back Program. In 2022, Premeer gives Back Program totaled $19,650 in local charitable donations. For each successful closing, Premeer Real Estate makes a $150 donation in their client’s name to the local charity or organization of their choice from the Premeer gives Back Program beneficiary list. A few of the local charities and organizations that have benefited from the Premeer gives Back Program over the past three years include the Izzy Foundation, The CASA Project, Pawfect Life Rescue, Earth LTD, and Project New Hope.

“Not only do we provide exemplary

service to our real estate clients in the purchase or sale of their homes/properties, but we also spend tremendous efforts giving back to the community,” said Premeer Real Estate Broker/ Owner, Chris Whitten. “Aside from all the hands-on work Premeer Real Estate provides our community, the Premeer gives Back Program proudly contributes much needed monetary assistance to various local charities and organizations throughout Southern New England. Premeer Real Estate was founded on the premise that investing in our communities is truly investing in our future. Our REALTORS strongly believe if we infuse the same passion and enthusiasm, we have for helping our clients into helping our communities, our world would be a

much better place.”

Premeer Real Estate was established in 2013 by its broker, Chris Whitten. It has three locations – Smithfield, RI, Uxbridge, MA and Auburn, MA and is licensed in RI, MA & CT. Premeer Real Estate specializes in making their clients feel like family, and not just another business transaction. The REALTORS at Premeer Real Estate provide expert guidance and consultation during the real estate journey, while making it a stress-free and enjoyable experience. Chris Whitten was awarded Rhode Island’s ‘REALTOR of the Year’ in 2021. For more information, please contact broker/owner, Chris Whitten @ 401.527.1004.

GiviNG BACK - The Pawfect Life Rescue team is happy to receive a donation from Premeer Real Estate as part of their “Give Back Program”.

Photo by Matthew Allen Photography