The New Uxbridge Times - April, 2023

Uxbridge Times Uxbridge Times

Marathon Bombing Survivor running to raise awareness

Michele Blackburn is running this year’s Boston Marathon to raise awareness and funding for the lymphedema therapy she received at Milford Regional Rehabilitation & Sports Medicine. The Uxbridge resident’s lymphedema diagnosis results from injuries sustained nearly ten years ago and fuels her motivation to run the 2023 marathon on April 17.

On April 15th, 2013, Michele Mahoney (now Blackburn) was standing on Boylston Street waiting to see her best friend cross the Boston Marathon finish line. At 2:49 p.m., a bomb detonated two feet from where Blackburn was standing, causing severe damage to both of her legs. She was told her left foot would likely need to be amputated; however, due to her skilled surgeon and extensive skin grafting, she was able to keep both of her legs.

After two years of grueling physical

therapy, Blackburn began living her life again. She got married and had two children and her injuries had little impact on her day-to-day life.

Following the 2013 bombing, the Boston Athletic Association each year offers an invitational entry to survivors who would like to run the marathon themselves or gift to someone to run in their honor. “Over the years, so many people told me I should run the marathon myself, but honestly it was never really on my radar,” said Blackburn, who last year gifted her entry to well-known Peloton instructor Jess Sims.

Watching Sims finish the 2022 race was the first time Blackburn returned to the marathon route since the 2013 bombings. “When I saw her cross the finish line, it really inspired me and that’s when I first thought, ‘I might actually be able to run this myself.’”

It was about that time (Spring 2022),

when Blackburn began noticing painful swelling in her legs, particularly in her left leg. Her primary care physician recommended she see a specialist for lymphedema (the buildup of lymph fluid in the fatty tissues under skin that causes swelling and pain).

Initially, Blackburn had a difficult time locating such a lymphedema specialist until she found physical therapist Eileen Valis-Kerr of Milford Regional Rehabilitation & Sports Medicine in Milford.

Blackburn admitted she was hesitant to begin another regimen of physical therapy and even more hesitant to discuss her goal of running the Boston Marathon with Valis-Kerr. “I was so worried she was going to tell me I wouldn’t be able to do it, but instead, she couldn’t have been more supportive.”

Valis-Kerr worked with Blackburn to develop a six-week plan of physical

General Rufus Putnam Celebrates 200 Years

The General Rufus Putnam building located at 4 Uxbridge Road, Sutton, will celebrate its 200th  anniversary this year! To mark this special occasion, the Sutton Historical Society, which utilizes the building for the Society’s

Museum, will exhibit memorabilia from the building’s long history as a Masonic Hall, a town school, both high school and grammar school, the Daughters of the American Revolution hall, as well as the town library.

Did you attend the school, do you have photos of events at the building, special memories of events held there, or other memorabilia from ancestors who used the building you wish to share?

The General Rufus Putnam building (at left) as it stands today and (at right) back in the early days.

A reunion of alumni who attended the school is also being planned for early June. Please reach out to the society at email: sutton1704@gmail.com  or through their website,  suttonhistoricalsocietyinc.org with items to share or if you attended the school. More information will be available on the website in the upcoming weeks.

Membership Dive Underway

The Sutton Historical Society's 2023 Membership drive is now underway. Renew for 2023 or become a new member!  Membership is open to everyone. They accept memberships throughout the year. Members do not have to reside in the town of Sutton.

Membership is $15.00 for an individual and $25.00 for a family.  Membership forms were included in the SHS recently mailed newsletter and can be found online at: suttonhistoricalsocietyinc.org.

Michele Blackburn is training to run this year’s Boston Marathon to fundraise for the lymphedema therapy she received at Milford Regional Rehabilitation & Sports Medicine.

therapy consisting of exercises and compression and lymphatic massage that over time significantly reduced Blackburn’s lymphedema symptoms. Valis-Kerr’s prescribed plan allowed Blackburn to move forward with her marathon aspirations.

“The goal of my physical therapy was always to be able to do it on my own, and now it’s a life skill for me. It’s a tool I have in my tool box that empow-

Purgatory Chasm Under Construction

Beginning last month and continuing through Friday, June 30th, the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) will implement restricted access to parking and picnic areas and the chasm entrance at Purgatory Chasm State Reservation in the City of Sutton to accommodate construction work.

ers me to live my life. That’s what Eileen gave to me,” noted Blackburn. Blackburn selected Milford Regional Medical Center as her charity because of the positive and supportive experience she had with Valis-Kerr. “I’m just so grateful and it’s my way of saying thank you,” she explained.

To make a donation in support of Blackburn, visit foundation.milfordregional.org.

The park will remain open to the public; DCR urges visitors to use caution around construction areas. Directional and detour signage will be posted.

Purgatory Chasem State Reservation is located at 198 Purgatory Road, Sutton. More information can be view online at: www.mass.gov.

Easter Bunny Breakfast April 2nd Nipmuc Lithic Trail Presentation

Brothers of the historic Solomon's Temple Lodge, founded in 1818, is gearing up to host a delightful breakfast event this spring. The lodge, located in the heart of Uxbridge, is inviting locals to enjoy breakfast with the Easter Bunny at Grille 122 in Whitinsville on Sunday April 2nd.

The event will offer a fixed menu featuring a variety of breakfast options. Adults can enjoy a hearty breakfast for just $15, while kids can join in for only $8. This event promises to be a great family experience, and a portion of the funds raised will go towards supporting local charities.

"We are excited to bring the Easter Bunny breakfast event back to Grille 122 this year," said Wor. Felipe Silva, the current head of Solomon's Temple Lodge. "We're looking forward to bringing the community together and

508-887-3507

continuing our tradition of giving back."

The Easter Bunny breakfast is part of a fantastic year of events for the lodge, and follows the well-attended "Breakfast with Santa" which took place in early December, a day after the Uxbridge First night event.

If you're looking to enjoy a fun and family-friendly Sunday morning, then make sure to mark April 2, 2023 on your calendar and head over to Grille 122 for breakfast. You won't want to miss out on the delicious food and the chance to meet and take pictures with the Easter Bunny himself. For more information on Solomon's Temple Lodge and their upcoming events, visit their website at www. solomonstemplelodge.org and follow them on Twitter (@_SolomonsTemple) or Instagram (solomonstemplelodge).

The Sutton Historical Society will host a presentation on the nipmuc Lithic Trail with speaker, Joe Iamartino, from the Thompson, CT, historical Society on Tuesday, April 4th, at 7 p.m. in the First Congregational Church, 307 Boston Road, Sutton.  This event is free and open to all members and the public of all ages.

native Americans in the nipmuc Territory surrounding northeast Connecticut, the Blackstone Valley and other areas, left tangible artifacts, called lithic structures, that can be found today in fields and woods in these areas.  Mr. Iamartino will present evidence, photographic and from written history, of the purpose of these historic structures. Join us and learn what is hidden in plain sight in our own woods and fields.  Find a full calendar of events at  suttonhistoricalsocietyinc.org.

Italian Dinner at St. Peter Parish

St. Peter Parish in northbridge is having a Chicken Parm Dinner on Saturday, April 15th starting at 5:30 p.m. in the Parish Hall. Bring your family and friends for a wonderful meal and meet some new friends!

Tickets are $17 per dinner and include salad and dessert. To go meals will be available for pick up at 5:00 p.m. and

Letter to the Editor__ Let’s not forget the meaning of Easter

To the Editor:

now that the Lenten season is upon us, I'd like to share with you and your readers...what I believe:

There is one GOD... sole Creator of the world.

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 508234-2156 or email parishoffice@ stpeterrockdale.org to purchase tickets or if you have any questions.

Every individual is created equal...but ...no two beings are exactly alike. Human beings are developed from sperm and egg (man and woman).

Every baby is born innocent.

Each one of us has a purpose (unknown to us).

Each one of us has the same capabilities but for the Grace of God and our own doings.

We are given a guide (The Ten Commandments) and a free will.

The rest is up to us.

Each one of us is responsible to Our Creator and will have to face consequences when He determines that our earthly time is up.

Today is yesterday's tomorrow; today decides tomorrow; make it a good one.

Submitted by:

Merle G.Lalor Uxbridge

Free Kid’s Fair at W.C.C. April 1st

The theme for the 22nd Annual Kids Fair on Saturday, April 1st from 10 a.m. to 12 noon is “Passport to Healthy Communities” held at the Whitin Community Center. Families with young children are invited to a FREE fun morning of interactive informational booths, free healthy snacks and give-a-ways.

Again this year, children will be issued a passport and encouraged to travel throughout the Whitin Community Center. Exhibitors will place stamps on the passports after children play at their space. Upon receiving a minimum of 6 stamps, passports can be submitted into the door prize drawings. The prizes this year are BICYCLES!

Specific activities families can anticipate are an Eggstravganza EggHunt, hosted by the Whitin

Easter Egg Hunt at Waters Farm

State Senator Ryan Fattman (R-Sutton) and his family announced that they will be hosting their annual Easter Egg Hunt at Waters Farm in Sutton, on Sunday, April 2nd between 12 p.m. and 3 p.m, with a rain date of April 8th, during the same time frame. Admission is free, and hot dogs will be served between 12 and 1 p.m.

This event is open to families in all the towns of the Blackstone Valley and is sponsored by the Fattman Family, the Waters Farm Preservation, and UniBank. Families

are invited to come down to Waters Farm to hunt for Easter Eggs, see the local farm animals, and maybe even spot a special appearance from the Easter Bunny.

The 4H spring clothing drive will be underway, so bring your clothes and household items you no longer want to help fund the County Fair. Senator Fattman, his family, Waters Farm, and UniBank hope you will join them to celebrate the blossoming of the spring at this local historic treasure in the Blackstone Valley

Community Center, northbridge Fire Department's Freddie the Fire Truck, West Hill Dam Forest Rangers, a StoryWalk featuring “The Rabbit Listened”, free snacks prepared by The Green Plate, and many other service providers for young families.

Parents and caregivers of young

children will also receive familyfriendly educational information about resources in our community. Beginning Bridges CFCE partners with community stake holders to provide families with the foundational tools that will allow them to reach their full potential now and in the future.

Thimble Pleasures Quilt Guild offers scholarship

The Thimble Pleasures Quilt Guild is pleased to announce that they will be awarding a $1,000 scholarship to a graduating senior who is pursuing a course of study in the field of visual arts, design, or textiles.

Applications for the scholarship are available in the Guidance Office of your high school or are available online at www.thimblepleasures. org. The deadline for application submission is May 1st. 2023.

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Children enjoying last years Kid’s Fair at Whitin Community Center.

town News

Douglas

awarded grants for cultural programs

The Douglas Cultural Council has announced the award of 15 grants totaling $9,130 for cultural programs in Douglas, and in surrounding towns that benefit Douglas residents. A complete list of recipients and grant amounts can be found below. The Douglas Cultural Council is part of a network of 329 Local Cultural Councils (LCCs) 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 & humanities yearly.

The state legislature provides an annual appropriation to the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency, which then allocates funds to each community. Decisions about which activities to support are made at the community level by a board of municipally appointed volunteers. The members of the Douglas Cultural Council are: Shawn Anderson, Paul Beckwith, Rakesh Bhaskar, Kathie Landers, Dyan LarsonParker and Jennifer Zifcak.

This year's grants include: Blackstone Valley Art Assoc. Uxbridge Unleashed (summer concert series), Simon Fairfield Public Library (children’s pro-

grams), Plant Guy Eric, Uxbridge First night Celebration, Douglas High School Chorus, Douglas Octoberfest, Douglas Adult Social Center, Special needs Advocacy network (art project for students), Blackstone Valley Community Chorus, & BVT Multicultural Festival. Last year, more than $5.6 million was distributed by local cultural councils statewide.

Grants support an enormous range of grass-roots activities: concerts, exhibitions, radio and video productions, field trips for schoolchildren, summer and after-school youth programs, writing workshops, historical preservation efforts, lectures, First night celebrations,

nature and science education programs for families and town festivals. nearly half of LCC funds support educational activities for young people. The council will seek grant applications again in the fall. Applications and more information about the Local Cultural Council Program are available online at www. massculture.org. Applications will be due in October.

FMI about the Douglas Cultural Council, visit their Facebook page at Douglas Massachusetts Cultural Council. www.facebook.com. Or Jennifer Zifcak at jstinchfield@douglas-ma.gov (774) 262-4463, or Shawn Anderson at (972) 533-5737.

Opening Day in Uxbridge

This year, the Uxbridge Baseball/Softball Opening Day will take place on Sunday, April 23rd. The fes-

tivities will begin at 11:30 a.m. with a parade marching through downtown to the fields by Taft School. Following the parade there will be a ceremony and the day will conclude with games and a variety of activities.

Please come down to join the fun and support your town's local sports programs! Food, vendors, and other items will be available for purchase.

An Electronic and Appliance Recycle Day will be held this month at Saint Mary Church, 77 Mendon Street, Uxbridge. The event will take place rain or shine on Saturday, April 1st from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Residents from all area towns are welcome to participate.

Items will be collected in the parking lot. Allowed items are as follows. Small electronics items: Computer towers, Scanners, VCR, Printers, Copiers, DVD, Stereo Equipment, Lighting, Vacuum, Answering Machine, Fax, Speakers, Compact disc., Circuit Boards, Radios, Record Players, Modems, Word Processors, Fans, Video equipment, Game Console, Xbox, etc., Tape Players, Typewriters (Anything with a plug and more) @ $5 each.

APPLIAnCES: Dishwasher, Dryer, Stove. $20, Microwaves $10 (small) Large $20, Lawn mowers $20, Snow blowers $40, TV's and Monitors / Flat panel monitors: 18”- 26” $20 ea, 27”35” $25 ea / Over 35” Projection TV $40 ea., AC or Dehumidifier $20, Refrigerators $20 (dorm) $40 Large. Grill $20, Empty propane tank $10. Ex.

equipment $20-40 weight sets $10. nEW: Box Springs $45, Mattress $45 to $60

nO CHARGE On: Keyboards, Car, Boat, Motorcycle Batteries, Cables, wire and cell phones.

ALSO InCLUDED: Bicycle Recycle Day, no fee. Bring your unwanted old or new bicycle and drop it off, it will be reused again. Mountain, Road, BMX, Cruiser,  (Old to new) Kids, etc. Our aim is to keep bikes from being thrown out when they can be reused. (We can pick up bicycles if you cannot get them there).

All towns welcome to Electronic and Appliance Recyle Day Historical Trolley Tours

The northbridge Historical Commission, in partnership with the northbridge Historical Society and with funding provided by a grant from the northbridge Cultural Council, is pleased to announce its popular Historical Trolley Tours of northbridge. The tours will take place Saturday, May 13th. Three tour times will be offered, 9 a.m., 11 a.m., or 1 p.m. and space is limited. The tours begin at the Historical 1770 Fletcher House, 1 Main Street, former home to James Fletcher and now the home of the northbridge Historical Society. northbridge historian and teacher Ken Warchol will be your guide for a 2hour trolley tour of northbridge Center and The Historic District of Whitinsville. This tour will take you back to 1772, when northbridge received its town charter. Then, Whitinsville was only a small village. You’ll learn about the vital role northbridge played in the industrial revolution as it became a thriving industrial global center and the position the Whitin family had on the development of the town and establishment of Whitin Machine Works as the most prominent textile machine shop in the world by the end of the 1920s. The tour will include aspects of village life and explore the architectural skeletons and landmarks that remind us of a bygone era. Join us as we explore and learn about northbridge's important role in developing our nation’s history and designation as part of the Blackstone Valley River national Heritage Park.

There is no charge for the tour, and registrations are required. Maps of the walking district are available for $5, and donations are accepted. For registration and information, contact Ken Warchol at (508) 680-3440 or email Kenwarchol2@msn.com. Upon contact, you must leave complete contact information, including full name, contact number and email, and state preferred time and the number of seats requested.

Youth Speech Contest

Eabha Twohig-Mann, Uxbridge H.S. freshman, took the stage with confidence successfully navigating two rounds of the District 33A Lions Annual Youth Speech Contest. This year’s topic, Environmental Crisis: Fact or Fiction, is competed in four rounds. In its final format, the five to eight minute speech must be memorized and

Pansies on Parade

Prepare to Shred and Destroy

delivered error free before a large audience at the Lions conference. Twohig-Mann performed with confidence on initial levels winning cash prizes at each competition. Coached by Uxbridge High teacher, Sheila Bernard, Twohig-Mann impressed judges and audience with her poise and delivery. The contestant who won at the District 33A Conference will move on to the state competition.

Willard Clock Museum Birthday Celebration

Grafton’s Simon Willard was born on April 3rd, 1753. His birthday will be celebrated during the entire month of April. Kicking off the festivities, the museum will offer FREE admission starting April 1st. This was made possible by a generous donation from Gaudette Insurance of north Grafton. Book at visit at: https://willardhouse.org/ contact.

In addition, Willard will hold a birthday party on the grounds on Saturday, April 1st from noon to 3:00 p.m. Come and enjoy cake and special children’s activities. Register at https://willardhouse. org/events/calendar/2022/4/2/simon-willardsbirthday-9lr5t so that the museum can order enough cake!

GPL Clock Scavenger Hunt

The museum has partnered with the Grafton Public Library on a special clock scavenger hunt, at the library. First through sixth graders are invited to find clocks of various types including a Benjamin Willard Jr. tall case clock and an Aaron Willard steeple clock. DIY program for youth this month celebrating our partnership with Willard House and Clock Museum!” says Library Director, Beth Schreiber.

Richard Potter’s 19th Century Magic Show Rounding out the month, Willard will host

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Richard Potter’s 19th Century Magic show on Friday, April 21st, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.

“Willard is pleased to welcome back Robert Olson as Richard Potter to amaze our audience with his marvelous feats of magic. Robert has made it his life’s devotion to study and perform as Potter and his passion shines through”, says Cheney. “His prior appearance was standing room only, so order your seats early.”

Wearing 19th century costume, veteran magician, Olson, brings Richard Potter’s 1800s magic to audiences, using original and recreated props (cards, coins, ribbons, and boxes) as well as costumes and the language that was used during that period-– all to carry the audience back in time.

Located at 11 Willard Street in north Grafton, MA, Willard House and Clock Museum exhibits more than 90 Willard clocks in the birthplace and original workshop of the Willard clockmakers. Willard is listed on the national Register of Historic Places. Visit the Willard House and Clock Museum website at www.willardhouse.org and follow on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

For more information about the museum, please contact Beverly Snow, Program Coordinator, at 508-839-3500.

next on the calendar is what has become the Annual Pansy Sale with the goal of raising funds to purchase flowers and plants for the large containers that adorn the Downtown Uxbridge area from spring through winter. The Beautify Uxbridge Project, initiated years ago by the late Marie Potter, has become the spring service project of the Uxbridge Lions Club. Pre-orders for the pansies are currently being taken. For $20, buyers can choose among a Pansy Oval or Pansy Bowl. Pansies can be picked up at the Uxbridge Senior Center parking lot on April 1st. Four ways to order: Text 508-450-2451; message on Facebook Uxbridge Lions Club or email uxbridge.ma.lions @gmail.com. Donations for the Lions Beautify Uxbridge Project can be sent to Uxbridge Lions Club, P.O. Box 455, north Uxbridge, MA 01538.

Twice a year the citizens of Uxbridge and its environs haul boxes of paper and electronics to be shredded, destroyed and recycled for a donation of $5 per copy paper sized box or per electronic item. So many tons have been processed by the Uxbridge Lions with Pellegrino Trucking dealing with the paper and OnSite Computers handling the electronics that they have stopped counting. Get those items together after tax season and bring them to the VFW Parking Lot, Route 16 and Cross Road, in Uxbridge, on Saturday, April 22nd, between 8:30 and 11 a.m. OnSite will guarantee the secure destruction of electronic devices including phones, electrical cords, DVDs, cameras, USB cables, flat screen monitors, keyboards, radios and stereos. FMI contact President Diane Seely at email: dmseely@hotmail.com.

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Obituaries_____ Richard F. Doble,

86

Richard passed away on Monday, Feb. 20th, 2023 in Keene, nH.  He was born to the late Lila (But-ler) and Beryl Doble on August 21, 1936, in Uxbridge, MA. Richard attended school in Uxbridge, and Worcester Boys Trade School. After graduating, Richard enlisted in the U.S. navy serving as a Draftsman on the Bon Homme Richard throughout the Pacific, being honorably discharged in 1959.

He returned home and was soon married to his wife, Eleanor M. (Ranslow) Doble, in 1960. They were happily married for 56 years until her passing in 2016.

Richard made the decision to further his education and moved his family to Keene, nH a few years later receiving his BS in Education at Keene State College in 1967. Receiving a Fellow-ship from Indiana State University upon graduating, the family moved west. He received his MS in Education in 1968. Keene State College called him back from there to teach in their Industrial Arts Program, and his career began. In 1976, he enrolled in the PhD program at the University of Connec-ticut, and in 1978, he received his PhD in Education. He would continue as a Professor of Education at Keene State College until his retirement in 2000.

During his tenure at KSC, he once again become active in the military, joining the U.S. Army Reserves. Richard would become Warrant Office of the Keene unit, retiring as their chief, and honorably discharged with the rank of E-8, in 1997.

Richard was an active member of the Freemasons, spanning over 63 years of service. He joined, in his father’s footsteps, in 1959, Solomon’s Temple Lodge of Uxbridge. He joined the Scottish Rite

MARTIN D. CONBOY, CPCU, ARM

76 Mendon Street

Uxbridge, MA 01569

(508) 208-9694

(508) 526-3120

Licensed in MA, RI, NH, ME mdconboy76@gmail.com

in the Valley of Keene in 1965 and joined the Lodge of the Temple #88 of Keene, in 1990. The Lodge of the Temple merged with the Jerusalem Lodge in 1992. Richard received his MSA in 1991. He has served as Worshipful Master in both Massachusetts and new Hampshire, held many offices, and received many awards for service and commitment, achieving his 33° in 1992. Richard was also an Honorary Member of St. Paul’s Lodge and Faithful Lodge.

One of his most ardent passions in life was horseshoes. Finding that Keene had a horseshoe club, he began his membership back in the early 1960s. Richard assisted in hosting two World Horseshoe Tournaments, the first in 1968, and in 1974, he was Tournament Director. He never achieved Class A status as a pitcher, however, he did receive one of their highest honors with Induction into the national Horseshoe Pitchers’ Hall of Fame for his Unselfish Devotion to the Game as an Organizer, in 1981.

Throughout his retirement, Richard enjoyed meeting daily with “the boys” for coffee. Meeting at McDonalds to discuss and solve all the worlds’ problems, this tight knit group even had the pleasure of a visit from Governor Sununu, as he had heard of their camaraderie and wisdom.

Richard is survived by his two children: Judy Hewitt of Swanzey, and Richard and his wife Abbey of Fryeburg, ME; six grandchildren: Jenifer, Aric, Braeleigh, Bricent, Ricky and Gabe; two greatgrandchildren: Peyton and Parker; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Richard is also survived by his beloved, Linda Guinane.

Richard was preceded in death by his

wife Eleanor; his son-in-law Jeffrey Hewitt; his sisters, Alice and Helen; and his brother, Albert.

A wake with a Masonic service was held on Friday, March 3rd, 2023 at Fletcher Funeral Home in Keene, nH.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Richard’s name to The Wounded Warrior’s Project, P.O. Box

Peter E. Rice, 89

Peter E. Rice, 89, of Oak St., formerly of Hecla St. passed away peacefully on Sat. March 11th, 2023 after a brief illness with his family by his side.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years

Mary T. (Finnigan) Rice; 3 children

Kathleen A. Rice of Uxbridge, Eileen M. Rice and her husband Randy Kibbe of northbridge; and Peter E. Rice and his fiancé Alyson of Uxbridge; 3 grandchildren Jordon and Brendon Rice and Katherine Kibbe; and many nieces and nephews. He was brother of the late Helen V. Duffy, Barbara Frabotta, Charles

A. Rice Sr., and Leo M. Rice. Born in Milford, MA on Jan. 4th, 1934, he was the son of Peter E. and Katherine (Tynan) Rice and lived in Uxbridge most of his life.

Mr. Rice worked in the Engineering

758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675 (www. woundedwarriorproject.org).

Fletcher Funeral Home of Keene, nH has been entrusted with the arrangements. To express condolences to the Doble family or to share a memory of Richard, please visit www.FletcherFuneralHome. com.

Shop at Wyman Gordon Co. in Grafton for 40 years, retiring in 1994. He also did accounting work for the Town of Uxbridge several years and delivered Meals on Wheels for the Uxbridge Senior Center.

A graduate of Uxbridge High School, Class of 1951 and Worcester Jr. College, he was a US navy Veteran of the Korean Conflict, serving aboard submarines in norfolk, VA, San Diego, Japan and Spain. He enjoyed visiting the town coffee shops, playing golf, and watching nE sports teams. Family was most important to Pete however. He loved attending his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events and could often be seen sitting on his porch on Oak St. with his wife Mary.

He was a member of St. Mary’s Church and the Charles A. Rice American Legion. His funeral was held  on March 16th from Tancrell-Jackman Funeral Home, In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Charles A. Rice American Legion, Post 33, 59 Douglas St. Uxbridge, MA 01569.

To leave a condolence message for his family please visit: www.jackmanfuneralhomes.com.

“Specializing in hand crafted life insurance planning in small batches since 1980”

Mendon named winner of the Senator Louis Bertonazzi Outstanding Award

Of the 19 towns competing in the five elections of 2020 -2022, Mendon turned out the highest percentage of registered voters who actually cast a ballot with 31.20%, barely nosing out the neighboring town of Upton with 31.00%.

This makes Mendon a two time winner since the contest's inception. Upton and northbridge also won twice and Sutton and Grafton once each.

Mendon Town Clerk Ellen Agro and the Board of Registrars will receive a check from the Foundation for $1000 that may be used to increase future voter turnout. The Mendon Board of Selectmen will be presented a plaque to be displayed for two years in the Mendon Town Hall. And the people of Mendon who earned the award will receive a huge banner, proclaiming Mendon as the "Best Voting Community" in 2020-2022 to be theirs for

Area Church to host Ham & Bean Supper

Home Baked Ham & Bean Supper, April 22nd at 5:00 p.m. in the Community House, 8 Court St, Uxbridge located behind the Uxbridge Town Common. Sponsored by the Uxbridge Congregational Church. Menu includes baked ham, home baked beans, potato salad, coleslaw, brown bread, beverages & dessert.

Donation of $12.00 per adult, children under 6 free. Raffles will also be available. For reservations call 508244-7849 Limited tickets will be sold at door. Come enjoy great food and fellowship.

permanent display.

The final standings show Hopedale

26.95% and Dudley's 25.97% join Upton in the upper tier. Westborough

24.8%, Grafton 23.77%, Blackstone

33.70%, Charlton 23.55%, Uxbridge

22.24%, Sutton 22.16%, Auburn

22.79%, Milford 22.67%, Oxford

20.49%, Bellingham 20.34% and

Douglas 20.25% make up the middle tier of Finishers. Millville 19.03%, northbridge 18.71% and Southbridge 17.16% complete the list of participants.

The aim of the contest is to offer a small competitive incentive to people to exercise the privilege of voting: a privilege won and maintained by the

Garden Club offers Scholarship

The Sutton Garden Club is pleased to announce that we will award one scholarship in the amount of $1000 this year. Consideration will be given to a student who plans to pursue college studies (including college affiliated certificate programs) in horticulture, landscape design, botany, environmental studies or other related natural sciences.

Eligibility: Sutton resident graduating students(public or private high school, tech.etc.) and graduating students of other towns who are related to a current Garden Club member.

The SGC scholarship is contingent upon the student's ability to maintain a grade point average of at least 2.5 during the semester following the granting of the scholarship.  Sutton High School students apply through the Guidance Office Applicants from other High Schools should submit a one page, single-spaced word processed letter by April 30th, 2023 mail to Sutton Garden Club Scholarship Committee, 78 West Millbury Rd., Sutton, Ma 01590.

courage and sacrifice of so many over the history of  our country.

The Senator Louis Bertonazzi Foundation Board of Directors are Dr. Carl DiGregorio, Chairman; Andrew

Diorio, Treasurer; Atty. David Bertonazzi, Clerk: Gail Grimaldi; Joseph nigro: Julie Rizoli-Richards; Ellen Murphy; and Louis Bertonazzi, Ex Officio.

Valley Chapel announces

Easter Week Services

The Valley Chapel, located at 14 Hunter Road in Uxbridge, recently announced the schedule for Easter Week Services.   Good Friday, April 7th: Journey to the Cross. This is a free self-guided journey that takes you through 8 multi-sensory stations that follow Jesus’ final days on Earth. It takes approximately 20-40 minutes to complete. The “Fast Track” option is available for families with

young children. Open 10 am – 6 pm. Sunrise Service - Easter Sunday at 7 a.m. at Valley Chapel. Outside worship, scripture reading, and a message. Easter Service: In-person and Online at 10:30 a.m. Celebratory worship, choir performance, inspiring testimony, and a message from God’s Word! Join us in person or online! Toddler and preschool classes only.

MRMC Spring Wellness Programs

As part of Milford Regional Medical Center’s (MRMC) efforts to promote good health and well-being, MRMC is once again sponsoring a variety of wellness programs for the public. Registration is now open for the spring session programs, which are being held virtually and live streamed for participants to enjoy from the comfort of their own homes.

The spring session begins the week of April 10 and includes eight different weekly classes, which are led by certified instructors. All classes run approximately one hour and take place in the

evenings, except for two classes which occur on Saturday mornings.

Classes include Mondays: Therapeutic Qi Gong and Zumba Toning®; Tuesdays: Ease into Fitness and Pilates Barre Fusion; Wednesdays: Core & More; Thursdays: Cardio, Core & Conditioning; and Saturdays: Shape Up! and Chair Fitness (new).

For detailed descriptions of each class or to register, visit the hospital’s website (milfordregional.org) and click on “Classes and Events.” Classes are $50 per session. FMI email msanford@milreg. org or call 508-422-2827.

If a surgeon dropped his scalpel on the floor in the late 1800s, he picked it up and continued to use the instrument while operating. On the other hand, life-saving discoveries such as x-rays were made during this time. Such is the paradoxical nature of late-Victorian medicine.

On April 12th at 7:00 p.m., the Douglas Historical Society will host a performance titled Myths & Miracles of Victorian Medicine. Guests will discover some of the primitive practices and life-saving discoveries that lead to today’s medical miracles.

Fictional Victorian lady Miss Myrtle Mills will escort guests on a journey through the head-scratching yet surprisingly advanced state of lateVictorian medicine.  Guests will learn about disease prevention; kitchen-cupboard medicines and patented “remedies”; pregnancy protocols; the difficulties for aspiring women physicians, and scientific discoveries that formed the roots of medicine in 2023.

Janet Parnes, owner of Historical

Portrayals by Lady J. Millis (www. women-history.com.) will portray Myrtle Mills.  Myths & Miracles of Victorian Medicine will take place on Wednesday, April 12th, at 7 p.m. at the E.n. Jenckes Store Museum 283 Main St,

Douglas. The program is free and open to the public.

This program is supported in part by a grant from the Douglas Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.

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.

For both articles and advertisements. 12:00 Noonon the 15th www.thenewuxbridgetimes.com

Submitted items will only be published if received by the deadline, and if space is available. articles are limited to 800 words or less. articles and Cartoons printed in the New Uxbridge Times are the message and opinion of the writer and do not necessarily represent the opinions of anyone connected with this publication. all submissions must be signed and have a phone number where the writer can be reached. In the event a writer cannot be reached for verification the article will not run. We also reserve the right not to print items.

Janet Parnes portrays Myrtle Mills.

Special Tour celebrates Poetry Month

The Shawna Foundation presents The Library Poetry Tour is proud to feature Catherine Marenghi on April 5th, 7 p.m. at the Milford Town Library and on April 6, 7 p.m. at the Uxbridge Free Public Library for national Poetry Month.

A Milford native, Catherine is an award-winning poet, novelist and memoirist. She is the author of “Breaking Bread: Poems” (2020), “Glad Farm: A Memoir” (2016), and “Our Good name” (2022), an historical novel based on her immigrant ancestors. Her next poetry book, “Unfurled: Love Poems,” is forthcoming in 2023. Among her awards, she was nominated for a Pushcart Prize for her poem “First Day of Kindergarten.” The acclaimed poets Richard Blanco and Jennifer Clement separately selected her poems as first-place winners of poetry contests sponsored by Crossroads Magazine. Her poems also twice received first-place honors from the Academy of American Poets university prize program.

Her work has appeared in numerous international publications including Sisyphus, Cider Press Review, Ruminate, High Shelf Press, Wingless Dreamer and Bangalore Review to name a few. Her memoir “Glad Farm,” which President Jimmy Carter called “inspiring,” tells of a life rooted in poverty on a former gladiolus farm in Milford, MA and the power of a house

to change our destiny. She received an M.A., B.A. Summa Cum Laude from Tufts University, where she studied with poets Denise Levertov and X.J. Kennedy.

She currently divides her time between San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, and Massachusetts. She has served on the board of the San Miguel Poetry Café and also co-founded Poetry Mesa, an international poetry community, along with poet Judyth Hill.

Skip Shea, Executive Director of the Shawna Foundation, said, “April is national Poetry Month and we decided to honor that with a special Library Poetry Tour installment featuring Catherine. She was born and raised in Milford and we are thrilled and honored that she will join our Library Tour lineup for this special event in April. Giving a platform to local poets for live readings is the heart of our intention and having Catherine read her poetry is the best of what this program offers—a poetic homecoming. We know that Milford and Uxbridge audiences will welcome her enthusiastically.”

The Library Poetry Tour is a program of the Shawna Foundation, bringing live poetry readings to the Milford Town Library and the Uxbridge Free Library quarterly throughout 2023. The program is hosted by Worcester poet Tony Brown, the winner of the 2022 Stanley Kunitz Medal, endowed by the

late U.S. Poet Laureate and Worcester native and awarded annually to a poet for lifetime achievement and service to the Central Massachusetts poetry community.

The Library Poetry Tour is supported in part by the Milford Cultural Council, The Uxbridge Cultural Council and the Massachusetts Cultural Council.

The Shawna E. Shea Memorial Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit whose mission is to support and showcase artists in filmmaking, performance arts and creative endeavors with a focus on underrepresented communities.

New England Country Music Club Dances

The new England Country Music Club has announced their Calendar of April events. On Sunday, April 2nd DJ Felicia will provide the music and on Sunday, April 19th the "Crossfire" band will play.

Doors open at 12:15 p.m., Music will play from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. for both dances. Events will take place at the Progressive Club located at 18 Whitin Street in north Uxbridge. For more information: http://www. Facebook.com/nECountryMusicClub.

New Board appointments at National Heritage Corridor

The Blackstone River Valley national Heritage Corridor (BHC), serving 25 communities between Worcester and Providence, RI, announces new appointments made to its Board of Directors during its annual meeting in February. The Board of Directors elected new officers, including Dennis H. Rice, Chair; Lee Dillard Adams, ViceChair; Harry T. Whitin, Vice-Chair; Bill Beitler, Treasurer; and Todd Helwig, Secretary. BHC’s Immediate Past-Chair is Richard

Dennis h. Rice

Moore.

Directors re-elected for a three-year term on BHC’s Board include Richard Moore, Lee Dillard Adams, Jeannie Hebert, Harry T. Whitin, Donna Williams, and Robert Billington. The Board also elected a new Director, Jon Roberts. Other Directors include Michael Cassidy, Richard Gregory, and Daniel DaPonte. FMI visit Blackstone-HeritageCorridor.org.

Congratulations to the People’s Choice Winners

The 2nd Annual nESA Sculpture Exhibit at Alternatives’ Whitin Mill ValleyCAST, the arts and culture arm of Open Sky Community Services, collaborated again this year with the new England Sculptors Association to bring yet another unique exhibit of sculpture to the Alternatives’ Whitin Mill Complex.

Over 30 sculptures were included in the exhibit and displayed inside the gallery, out on the Community Plaza, and around the grounds of the Mill Complex. Artists from all over new England were represented in the exhibit. Prizes for favorites were awarded by people’s choice for first, second, and third place. Voting took place on-line and in-person. “It has been such a privilege to work with such talented artists.” Commented Cristi Collari, judge and curator for the exhibit, and Director of Community Outreach for Open Sky. “This year’s exhibit was absolutely stunning! We can’t wait to collaborate with nESA again next year.”

First prize and $300 went to Chris Plaisted of new Milford, CT for his inside, pedestal sculpture

“Celestial Sphere” created out of steel. Second prize and $200 went to Carla Goldberg of Milford, CT for her inside, wall mounted “Between the Islands of Jura and Scarab” made with oil ink, resin, and enamel on acrylic panel. And third prize and $100 went to Domenic Esposito of Westwood for his inside, wall mounted sculpture “Assailable” created from bronze and mounted on an oil painted wood panel.

Although the inside gallery exhibit has come down to make room for the ValleyCAST 10th Annual Art Palette Contest, you can still view the outside sculpture on the complex grounds by the following artists: Roe Osborn, Madeleine Lord, Philip Marshall, and Stephen Paulson until midApril, 2023. To learn more about the new England Sculptors Association, visit nesculptors.org.

To learn more about ValleyCAST and/or Open Sky Community Services, visit openskycs.org.

ABOUT nESA: The new England Sculptors Association was founded in 1948 by a group of sculptors, students, and teachers at the Museum School. Two years after the organization was

formed, nESA sponsored the first large, outdoor exhibit of sculpture in new England on the grounds of the Museum School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. nESA has had exhibits every year since then, many in several of the leading museums and galleries of the region.

ABOUT VALLEYCAST: ValleyCAST’s mission is to foster a creative and engaged community in the Historic Blackstone Valley that is inclusive and supportive of all people with and without disabilities. ValleyCAST is the arts and culture arm of Open Sky Community Services.

ABOUT OPEn SKY COMMUnITY SERVICES: By blending best practices with the power of community, Open Sky provides individuals and families with the support they need to see beyond and live beyond perceived limitations to pursue fulfilling lives.

At Right: NESA President and artist, Domenic Esposito of Westwood, MA with his bronze sculpture Assailable.

Steele and Guyton named BVT Superintendent’s Scholars

Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School (BVT) Superintendent-Director Dr. Michael F. Fitzpatrick is proud to announce that Katelyn Steele of Upton and Maxwell Guyton of Uxbridge are the recipients of the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents Award of Academic Excellence. They are both in the Engineering & Robotics program at BVT. The annual commendation, also known as the Superintendent's Scholar Award, is presented to the two seniors who exemplify the school's commitment to cutting-edge career technical training and rigorous academics.

Presently, Katelyn Steele is the Class of 2023 Valedictorian and the Vice President of the national Honor Society and national Technical Honor Society. Her dedication to academic and vocational studies was on display when she earned a gold medal in 2022 at the SkillsUSA State (Massachusetts) Leadership & Skills Conference in Related Technical Math. In addition, she is a Worcester Polytechnic Institute STEM Leadership Book Award Recipient.

Recently recognized by MAVA with an Outstanding Vocational Student Award, Steele is a scholastically talented student who, in addition to her academic success, also excels as a studentathlete Varsity Soccer, Basketball, and Track and Field Captain. Passionate

Northbridge Girl Scout Troop openings

Two Girl Scout troops in northbridge have openings for girls in grades K through 3. Girl membership registration fee is $35 for the year. Financial Assistance is available and previous Girl Scout experience is not necessary. Girls K - 1st Grade:

The meeting days and times are as follows: Girls in grades K and 1 are invited to join Girl Scout Troop 65379. The troop meets e/o week on Thursdays from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in northbridge. Register for a spot in the troop at https://bit.ly/troop65379

Girls Grades 2 & 3:

Girls in grades 2 and 3 are invited to join Girl Scout Troop 64000. The troop meets e/o week on Thursdays from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in northbridge. Register for a spot in the troop at https:// bit.ly/ troop65400

See for yourself what Girl Scouts has to offer. Girl Scouts is the premier organization for girls to learn about leadership, financial literacy, life skills, science and technology, the outdoors, and community service.

Questions? Email info@gscwm.org or call 413-584-2602.

about community service, she accrued over 140 hours throughout high school. Steele is analyzing multiple placement opportunities that will strengthen her workforce entry options. She would like to further her education and training by studying aerospace engineering

at a four-year college.

Currently, Maxwell Guyton is the Class of 2023 Salutatorian and a national Honor Society and national Technical Honor Society member. In 2022 he was a national Technical Honor Society Delegate, promoting the

pillars of nHS/nTHS to general members and participating in nearly 40 hours of Engineering-related and general community service. He has made the Commendation List every term of his high school career. Guyton, a member of the Student Council, served as a Senior Representative helping the Council to be named a Gold national Council of Excellence for the 2021 calendar year. As a sophomore, he was selected to attend the Student Ambassador of MA HOBY leadership conference and learned the importance of service and leadership. He was also a Project 351 Student Ambassador in 2019. Guyton is crafting a unique career path furthering his vocational training in the Engineering field at northeastern University, enrolling in the PlusOne program to earn a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in five years while still being able to participate in their co-op program.

"As educators, we are proud to see Katelyn and Maxwell exhibit extraordi-

nary commitment to their vocational technical training and rigorous academics. It is an honor to have them represent our school," said Assistant Superintendent-Director/Principal Anthony Steele. "They both exemplify what is possible in career-technical education, and it will be equally exciting to see how they apply what they've learned at BVT in their future pursuits." They will graduate in May from BVT’s Engineering & Robotics program.

About BVT:

Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School serves the towns of Bellingham, Blackstone, Douglas, Grafton, Hopedale, Mendon, Milford, Millbury, Millville, northbridge, Sutton, Upton, and Uxbridge. Located in the heart of the Blackstone Valley, BVT creates a positive learning community that prepares students for personal and professional success in an internationally competitive society through a fusion of rigorous vocational, technical, and academic skills.

Katelyn Steele Maxwell Guyton

Calendar of April events at Uxbridge Free Public Library

SPROUT InTO SPRInG: HAnDS-On GARDEnInG WORKSHOP FOR FAMILIES

Are you looking to encourage your children to explore their imagination in the garden? On Saturday, April 1st at 10 a.m, join us at the library for a hands-on gardening workshop for parents and young children. This program from Blackstone Valley Veggie Gardens will be followed by an informational presentation on May 13th about gardening with children. Blackstone Valley Veggie Gardens offers lectures on a variety of gardening topics throughout Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Visit our website calendar to register.

ACCEPTInG BOOK SALE

DOnATIOnS STARTInG APRIL 15th

We will begin accepting donations for the Friends of the Library Spring Book and Bake Sale on April 15th. Donations of books, DVDs, and other media can

be dropped off in the rear entryway to the Children’s Room. This year’s Spring Book & Bake Sale will be held on May 6.

SHAWnA FOUnDATIOn

LIBRARY POETRY TOUR

Catherine Marenghi - Apr. 6th at 7 p.m. at the former Unitarian Church

LET'S GET CRAFTY:

ADULT KnITTInG PROGRAM

Apr. 20th at 3 p.m.

POPUP LIBRARY

AT THE SEnIOR CEnTER

Apr. 27th at 11:30 a.m.

BOOK CLUB

The Henna Artist by Alka Joshi, Apr. 18th at 3:30 p.m.

BOOKIES BOOK CLUB

The Authenticity Project by Clare Pooley, Apr. 24th at 6:30 p.m.

YOUTh & TEEN PROGRAMS

Register Now!

TEEn BOOK-In-A-BAG (ages 13+)

LEAF COASTER ART

(Ages 8-12) – Apr. 11th at 3:30 p.m.

MAGIC SPRInG DOG CRAFT

(ages 4-7) – Apr 12th at 3:30 p.m.

VIRTUAL FORTnITE TOURnAMEnT

Apr. 13th at 6 p.m.

STEAM WITH BUILDWAVE

Apr. 15th at 11:30 a.m.

ADULT PROGRAMS

Register Now!

CARDMAKInG

HAnDS-On WORKSHOP

Monday, Apr. 3rd at 6:15 p.m.

Gentle Flow Yoga - Mondays, Apr. 3rd, 10th, and 24th at 7 p.m. & Saturday, Apr. 15th at 10 a.m.

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 p.m. - 4 p.m.

JOIn A BOOK CLUB:

Uxbridge Senior Center Book ClubThe Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michele Richardson, Apr. 11th at 1p.m. HISTORICAL FICTIOn

Pick up your themed book-in-a-bag choice between Apr. 1st-15th

TEEn FRIEnDSHIP BRACELETS

(ages 12-19) Apr. 10th at 6 p.m.

TEEn HEnnA

(ages 12-19) Apr. 18th at 1 p.m.

TEEn MOVIE & PIZZA nIGHT

(ages 13+) – Apr. 20th at 5:30 p.m.

SPROUT InTO SPRInG:

HAnDS-On GARDEnInG

WORKSHOP FOR FAMILIES

Apr. 1st at 10 a.m.

InTRO TO AMERICAn

SIGn LAnGUAGE (All ages)

Spring theme - Apr. 6th, 13th, & 27th at 4 p.m.

LITTLE LOTUS YOGA (ages 6+)

Apr. 3rd, 10th, 20th, & 24th at 4 p.m.

MUSIC AnD MOVEMEnT

WITH DEB HUDGInS (all ages)

Apr. 6th & 27th at 11 a.m.

LEGO CHALLEnGE BUILD

Apr. 4th and 25th at 4 p.m.

FAMILY CAnDY BAR BInGO

(Ages 6+) - Apr. 1st at 11:30 a.m.

STEAM CATAPULT CRAFT

(ages 4-7) – Apr. 5th at 3:30 p.m.

EASTER EGG HUnT

(ages 3-13) - Apr. 8th at 10:30 a.m.

UnDER THE SEA ART(ages 8-12)

Apr. 19th at 3:30 p.m.

STORYTiMES

(registration required):

BABY STORYTIME(0-2 years)

Mondays, Apr. 3rd & 10th at 11 a.m.

TODDLER/PRESCHOOL STORYTIME (2-4 years) - Wednesdays, Apr. 12th & 19th at 11 a.m.

BABY BUMBLE

Socialization playgroup (0-2 years)

Tuesdays, Apr. 4th & 18th at 11 a.m.

Toddler Tumble- Socialization playgroup (2-5 years) - Tuesdays, Apr. 11th & 25th at 11 a.m.

DROP-iN PROGRAMS:

CRAFTY WEDnESDAYS

Wednesday mornings and afternoons

Uxbridge Free Public Library is located at 15 north Main St., Uxbridge, MA 01569. 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.

Chamber hosts Professional Development Conference

Focus on building

Emotional Intelligence

The Chamber of Greater Easthampton and the Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce are proud to announce their partnership in bringing the Easthampton Chamber’s successful ignite professional development conference to the Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce. Ignite Blackstone Valley will take place April 4th & 5th at Community Harvest Project, 37 Wheeler Road, north Grafton, MA 01536. The Conference is aimed at professionals who want to improve their Emotional Intelligence and learn how to interact with co-workers, customers, or donors more effectively. Through the power of storytelling, attendees will

learn how to hone their decision-making skills and improve their chances of success in business.

The two-day conference will include keynotes speeches from industry leaders, interactive workshops, and network building opportunities. Attendees will gain insights into the latest trends and best practices in Emotional Intelligence, leadership, and communication.

“Emotional Intelligence is a vital skill for any professional looking to succeed in the modern workplace,” said Moe Belliveau, Executive Director, The Chamber of Greater Easthampton. “We are thrilled to partner with Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce to bring our conference to their members and to the wider business community. Attendees will leave the conference

equipped with practical tools and strategies that they can implement immediately to improve and drive business success.”

“We are excited to partner with The Chamber of Greater Easthampton for this conference,” said Jeannie Hebert, President/CEO of Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce. “We believe that storytelling is a powerful tool for building and developing leadership skills. We look forward to sharing our

expertise and insights with the attendees and helping them achieve their professional goals.” Contact: Jeannie Hebert, Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce, 670 Linwood Avenue, Suite #5, Whitinsville, MA 01588 (508) 234-9090 jhebert@blackstonevalley.org www.blackstonevalley.org

Tickets for ignite Blackstone Valley are now available through the Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce website.

For more information about the

Chamber of Greater Easthampton, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org.

The Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce’s mission is to preserve and enhance the economic vitality of the Blackstone Valley by addressing the needs and concerns of the businesses and providing leadership, support, and resources in connection with the issues which impact commerce and the quality of life in the Valley. FMI visit: www.blackstonevalley.org.

Blackstone Valley Tech Annual Golf Tourney

Register Now & Support a Special Cause

Even a ‘rough’ day on the golf course is a good day! Don’t miss this opportunity to hit the links and show off your trick shot (even those that land in the rough) at BVT’s 24th Annual Golf Tournament. A fun-filled day of golfing on Monday, June 12th, at Highfields Golf & Country Club in Grafton will benefit the Valley Tech Education Foundation and Athletic Department activities and programs.

Your registration (individual golfer $150/golf foursome $125 per person) includes 18 holes on the championship course, a golf cart, and a buffet dinner. Take part in the silent auction and raffles, all to help support a special cause. not a golfer, consider sponsoring a tee, putting green, or a cart to display your company name in the program proudly and during the event.

The day promises to be full of fun and friendly competition. For all tournament details, to view sponsorship opportunities, donate a raffle item, or access the online golfer registration and payment portal, visit www.valleytech. k12.ma.us/golftournament. Register today to secure your spot.

About Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School (BVT):Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School serves

Lent and Holy Week at St. Mary Church

the towns of Bellingham, Blackstone, Douglas, Grafton, Hopedale, Mendon, Milford, Millbury, Millville, northbridge, Sutton, Upton, and Uxbridge.

Located in the heart of the Blackstone Valley, BVT creates a positive learning community that prepares students for personal and professional success in an internationally competitive society through a fusion of rigorous vocational, technical, and academic skills.

St. Mary Catholic Church in Uxbridge announces their schedule of Liturgies for the remainder of Lent and Holy Week. During Lent we are asked to devote ourselves to seeking the Lord in prayer and Scripture, to service by giving alms, and to sacrifice through fasting. Lent is a time of preparation for the new life that Christ gives us through his Resurrection on Easter which will be celebrated on Sunday, April 9th. The Sacrament of Reconciliation will be held every Wednesday from 5:00 pm – 6:00 p.m. and every Saturday from

Thrift Shop posts Easter Sales

This month In Store Special Sale on selected items: Pocket Books, Slacks and More. Store Hours: Saturday April 1st from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (First Saturday each month, except when there is a holiday). “Our thoughts and prayers are with all who are directly

impacted by Covid-19.” Catholic Community of Sacred Heart Church, 187 Hopedale Street, Hopedale, MA Phone (508) 473-1900 or visit our website; sacredhearthopedale.org Like us on Facebook: www.facebook. com/twiceblessedthriftshophopedale/.

3:45 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. including Holy Week. Eucharistic Adoration is held in the Church every Wednesday from 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. during the school year. Stations of the Cross will be held every Friday evening in Lent beginning at 6:00 p.m.

Holy Week begins on Palm Sunday, April 2nd, where palms, a reminder of Jesus’ victory over death will be available. The normal Mass schedule will be followed: Saturday, April 1st at 5:00 p.m. and Sunday, April 2nd at 7:30 a.m, 9:00 a.m, and 11:00 a.m. Wednesday April 5th there will be a Tenebrae service in the Church beginning at 8:00 p.m. Tenebrae, Latin for “shadows,” is a meditation on the Passion narrative and is intended to recreate the emotional aspects of that event through light and sound.

Holy Thursday, April 6th commemorates The Mass of the Last Supper. Mass will be held at 7:30 p.m. followed

by Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament from 9:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m. Good Friday, April 7th commemorates the Celebration of the Lord’s Passion. There will be Stations of the Cross at 3:00 p.m. and the Liturgy of the Passion of the Lord will be at 7:30 p.m. On Holy Saturday or the Easter Vigil, April 8th, the Mass will start at 7:30 p.m and will include a service of light.

Easter Sunday, April 9th is the most important and joyous of all liturgical times. Easter is the glorious celebration of the Lord's Resurrection from the dead. Easter Masses will be celebrated at 7:30 a.m., 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

A sincere invitation is extended to anyone who would like to attend St. Mary Parish located at 77 Mendon Street in Uxbridge. We welcome you!

The parish office is open Sunday through Thursday. Please call 508-2782226 with any questions.

Nadreau receives distinguished award

Written by: Bro. Jimmy Falzone

A worthy man received the Distinguished Service Medal recently at the Olive Branch Lodge in Douglas. The lodge was packed with Master Masons from throughout the 24th Masonic District. Master Masons came to witness Worshipful David nadreau received the Joseph Warren Distinguished Service Medal. This award is given for exemplary and distinguished service to the Fraternity, and the community.

Brother nadreau has been a Master Mason for 17 years and loved freemasonry. He was raised to a Master Mason in 2006. He quickly rose through the ranks and became Worship Master of Mumford River Lodge in East Douglas in 2009

and remained Master until 2012. The Grand Masonic Lodge in Boston had their eyes on this worthy young man for his excellence and appointed him to the District Deputy Grand Master (DDGM) of the 24th Masonic District in 2013, and he remained in this position until 2016. In 2017-2018 he helped merged Mumford River Lodge into Olive Branch Lodge. His commitment does not stop there. He is a dietician and serves as the Food Service Director for multiple colleges and universities in the Boston area. His support and skills to the fraternity comes in meals. Brother nadreau is the go-to

guy for catering of Masonic events. He knows how to cook and most of all he knows how to plan these events. He understands the logistics of planning and catering of large events. He has catered many, many community events for Lodges in Massachusetts. The Brethren here at the Olive Branch Lodge are very proud and honored to give the Joseph Warren Distinguished Service Award Medal to brother nadreau for his honorable service to Freemasonry.

If you would like more information about Freemasonry, go to www.massfreemasonry.org to find a lodge nearest to you.

Beginning Bridges upcoming activities

Beginning Bridges CFCE‘s vision is that children, youth, and families reach their full potential now and in the future. Their mission is to work with families and community partners to create the conditions for children, youth and families to thrive socially, academically and economically.

Funding for the Coordinated Family & Community Engagement Grant (CFCE) is provided by the Mass. Dept. of Early Education and Care (EEC) and sponsored by South Middlesex Opportunity Council (SMOC-Childcare/Head Start). Beginning Bridges has funding for the towns of Mendon, northbridge, Upton & Uxbridge. Currently, our FREE comprehensive services include weekly indoor and outdoor parent/child playgroups. Also offering parent education programs, the Ages & Stages Developmental Quest-ionnaire and can connect families to resources.

Upcoming Events-Registration is required for all upcoming events. Links can be accessed on our website (BeginningBridgesCFCE.weebly.com) or contact Emily Murray at 508-278-5110 or Emurray@smoc.org.

• Mondays to Fridays, Parent Child Playgroups,

9:00 to 10:45 am, at the Uxbridge Playcenter, 9 north Main Street, Uxbridge, lower left office.

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

• 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. DROP-In

• Tuesday, 04/04/23, Music and Movement with Deb Hudgins, 10:30 to 11:00 am at Upton Town Library. Check Library website for location and registration information.

• Wednesday, 04/05/23, 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 10:30am Puppet Storytime. Register online at Taft Public Library.

• Wednesday, 04/19/23, Music and Movement with Deb Hudgins, 10:30 to 11:00 am at Whitinsville Social Library. Check Library web-

24th Masonic District Deputy Grand Master (DDGM) with top hat; Right Worshipful Jonathan Neitz, and recipient of the Joseph Warren Medal Worshipful David Nadreau.

Grass Roots Coffeehouse season opens

The Grass Roots Coffeehouse, founded in 2000 has been hosting Bluegrass and Folk concerts for over 20 years. After closing down due to the pandemic, the venue will be restarting with two concerts this spring.  Their first concert will take place on Saturday, April 15th with the band Redwood Hill performing.

Redwood Hill is a tribute band that pays homage to one of the greatest and most influencial bluegrass groups of all time - The Country Gentlemen, originally formed in the 1950's in Washington DC and active until 2004. The name Redwood Hill, a popular Country Gentlemen song is an orignal of Gordon Lightfoot.  The Gents were one of the first bands to integrate songs outside of bluegrass, such as from Lightfoot and Bob Dylan into their main repertiore.  The band also sought out new venues, like colleges and coffeehouses for performances.  Redwood Hill is a joyous, cohesive quartet of veteran southern and western new England musicians featuring Dave Orlomo-

~Society ~

School Vacation at the Movies

Kids of all ages are invited to be entertained by pianist and historian Richard Hughes as he presents a special children’s silent movie program at the Samuel Slater Experience museum on April 20 at 2 p.m.

Richard will begin with a ragtime solo from the early 1900s. He will talk about silent movie days, cylinder phonographs, synchronized sound effects, animation devices, and motion picture cameras. And, of course, he will play the piano along with historic movie clips, just as it was done a century ago.

The event is free, but registration is required. Register at Eventbrite.com. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Samuel Slater Experience will not be open for regular tours on April 20th.

Richard and his Traveling Silent Movie Shows is sponsored in part by the Webster Cultural Council.

Charlie Chaplin, Train Whistles, and Flying horses at the Samuel Slater Experience

Samuel Slater Experience is located at 31 Ray Street in Webster. FMI visit: www. samuelslaterexperience.org, email admin @samuelslaterexperience. org or call 508461-2955.

ski, Terry McGill, Keith Edwards, and Lilian Fraker.

The Grass Roots Coffeehouse is located at the Rockdale Congregational Church, 42 Fowler Road, northbridge and is run by Krissy and Bob Dick. Bob is a longtime member of the new England Bluegrass community. The concerts are held downstairs and hot soups/chili, beverages and desserts

are available for purchase.

Admission is $15, $5 for students under 18.  Doors open at 6:45 p.m. and concert begins at 7:30 p.m.  Proceeds benefit the Rockdale Congregational Church. Info: www.rockdalechurchonline.org, FMI email: aplandbob@aol. com, 617-429-0347.

The program will take place in the museum’s recreated Main Street, which features a theater showing silent movies as a standard exhibit. “Kids love watching the silent movies,” said Museum Director Barbara Van Reed.

“So, we are sure Richard Hughes’ specially planned silent movie program will be a big hit with kids.”

Richard and his Traveling Silent Movie Shows will begin at 2 p.m. on Thursday, April 20, and last about oneand-a-half hours, with an intermission.

ABOUT SAMUEL SLATER EXPERIEnCE

Samuel Slater Experience opened last year 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-the-art 4-D digital technology with immersive video and interactive exhibits to recreate two time periods: the early 1800s and the early 1900s.

The Redwood hill Band will perform April 15th.

All are welcome to join Silver Club spring bus trips

The first bus trip is Sat. April 22nd to The Titanic Exhibition in nYC: Travel to the "big city" for a fun day! After spending some time at the Titanic Exhibition, there will be an included lunch and some free time on Arthur Avenue in the Bronx. Arthur Ave is similar to Federal Hill in Providencelots of great bakeries and small shops.

May 15th - 17th (Mon - Wed)  is a 3 day trip to Maine!  Includes Portland, Kennebunkport, and Freeport. Lobster dinner one night! (Landlubber choices are available)  (2 nights lodging and 4 meals included)

Bolandrina chosen as FIND Representative

On May 22nd (Monday) is a trip to Vermont. "Vermont Fit for a King" includes a tour of King Arthur Flour, Simon Pearce, and Vermont Country Store w/lunch at the Alta Tuscan Grill.

June 6th-8th (Tues to Thurs) is a 3 day trip to Cape Cod & Martha's Vineyard. Includes Hyannis, Sandwich, Eastham, Provincetown, Chatham, and a whole day on Martha's Vineyard! (2 nights lodging and 4 meals included)

For cost of trips, additional information or to book please call Sue at 508476-5820.

508-234-6161

A Douglas High School alumnus (Class of 2022) and student at the University of Massachusetts Boston, Max Joseph Bolandrina was elected Underclassmen Representative for the 22-23 Academic year for the Filipino Intercollegiate networking Dialogue, Incorporated (FInD, Inc.). Bolandrina, a 19-year-old freshman from Douglas, is majoring in computer science, class of 2026.

Bolandrina said he was elated. “It was definitely exciting,” he said. “It’s an honor to be one of FInD underclassmen representatives, so that’s cool.”   FInD, Inc. is a student-led organization comprised of Filipino-related collegiate organizations from Boston to Greensboro. Established in the spring of 1992, FInD Inc.’s mission is to promote unity and cooperation among Filipino students enrolled in institutions of higher education. FInD, Inc. stands as a symbol to the ethnic consciousness presently seen on university campuses. The name FInD was chosen to illustrate a continuing process of student unification. The first FInD Conference was held at Harvard University on April 11, 1992.

Bolandrina was a former Evening School Clerk at Bay Path Adult Evening School. While at Douglas High School, he was an officer for the Class of 2022, a member of the Debate Club, DECA Inc. Officer, Game Club Member, SPICE/ Connections Club Member, and Winter Carnival Dance Chor-

eographer. His work experience includes being an autograph staff for FanExpo Boston since 2019 where he manages autograph queues and stations for guests and celebrities at the annual three-day convention, and as staff for Kurukuru Ramen assisting in the kitchen and with customers during popup events.

His volunteer experiences include Pan Mass Challenge at Provincetown since 2013 where he assisted in food and drink preparation, bike parking, site beautification, and supplies. Bolandrina is also an alumnus and a volunteer (since 2010) for Boston’s Isk-welahang Pilipino (IP, a cultural school, www.ipbahay.org) in Bedford, MA. He is a Banduria (a traditional 14-stringed Filipino instrument) musician, Philippine Folk Dance Performer, and was an “Introduction to Banduria” studentteacher. He performed with the IP Rondalla Ensemble’s 2018 Canadian Tour. He taught elementary and middle school students how to read musical

notation and play the banduria. He also led bi-weekly classes with demonstrations and interactive learning strategies.

With Bay Path Practical nursing Academy in Charlton, he has volunteered as a musician and usher during the annual commencement (since 2016) playing the piano live, for the procession and recession’s pomp and circumstance. With the Lowell Folk festival IP Booth, Bolandrina volunteered as a Food Service Worker (since 2010).

Trivia Night at Saint Peter Parish

Saint Peter Parish in northbridge will be holding a Trivia night, Friday, May 5th at the Knights of Columbus, 77 Prescott Road in Whitinsville. Tickets are $20 per person and can be purchased in advance or at the door. Get your tickets early, seating is limited! There will be a cash bar, food for purchase and a 50/50 raffle. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. and the Trivia Game starts at 7:00 p.m. Cash prize for the winning team. Come with your family & friends for a night of fun and see who will be Saint Peter’s Trivia Champions! To purchase your tickets please call the parish office 508-234-2156 or email: parishoffice@stpeterrockdale.org

GAMES - CRAFTS - OBSTICLE COURSES -

Max Joseph Bolandrina

senior corner

Plummer Place Events

Plummer Place is the home of the northbridge Senior Center and is located at 20 Highland St., Whitinsville, MA. Phone: 508-234-2002 / Hours: Mon.- Thurs. 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Friday 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

“Daily Coffee Time” at Plummer Place, 9-11:30 a.m, Monday-Friday. 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 for this cycle. 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 will be held on May 18th for a chance to win $500, $400, $300, $200 or $100.

Scrabble players will meet Mondays, April 3rd and 24th at 10:00 a.m. We are always looking for new players! Call Jeanne to sign up.

Movie Afternoons are back! Wednesday, April 5th @ 1:00 p.m. we will be showing “Mary Poppins Returns”. Popcorn and beverages will be served.

Veterans Services Rep, Carl Bradshaw will be here on Tuesday, April 11th at 10:30 a.m. for his office hour.

Salmon VnA Blood Pressure Clinic, Tuesday, April 11th, from 11:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m.

Book Club will meet on Wednesday, April 19th at 10:30 a.m. Call Michelle to find out what book we are reading.

Ukulele Sing-a-Long, Wednesday, April 19th @ 2:00 p.m.

Join Raianne Richards and the Plummer Place Pluckers for a sing-a-long ukulele concert featuring favorite songs from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s. Lyrics provided! We will do the strumming, just bring your singing voice or just enjoy the music, all are welcome! Light snacks provided, sign up at the front desk.

“Take a Hike” will meet Tuesdays, April 11th and 25th , weather permitting, destination to be announced. All walks start at 10:00 a.m. Call Jeanne for more information.

“Music for Seniors by Howie newman”, Wednesday, May 3rd from 1:00-2:00 p.m. Howie has been entertaining us at the Center for several years and is always a favorite. Howie brings music and laughter through his original songs. Light refreshments will be served, sign up at the front office. Howie’s program is supported in part by a grant from the northbridge Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.

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 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.

Happy 101st Birthday

Jennie Oleksyk!

Jennie recently celebrated her 101st birthday with family and friends. Congratulations Jennie! Wishing you continued good health, happiness, joy and many blessings from your friends in uxbridge.

Meals on Wheels needs Volunteers

Meals on Wheels volunteers are needed to help pack meals for seniors through Tri-Valley’s nutrition Program in Uxbridge and to deliver meals to seniors in northbridge. Meals on Wheels are delivered out of the Faith Fellowship Church in Uxbridge and the northbridge

Senior Center. All volunteers receive training and drivers are eligible for travel reimbursement at a per mile rate.

For more information call Beverly Clark, Uxbridge Site Manager at 774482-6174. Tri-Valley, Inc. is a private, non-profit agency providing in-home and community based services in 25 towns in south central Massachusetts.

For more information about funding and services call Tri-Valley’s free Helpline at 1-800-286-6640.

Valley Plumbing

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Uxbridge Senior Center News

The center is located at 36 South Main Street in downtown Uxbridge.

DIRECTOR’S APRIL nEWSLETTER

The month of April is a special month to celebrate our volunteers. Volunteer Recognition Day, as the name suggests, is a day to honor, recognize and celebrate the selfless individuals who volunteer their time and energy to help others and promote good causes. I want to thank all of our volunteers in the Town of Uxbridge, not only at the Senior Center, but also throughout the Town. Many of our volunteers are seniors, especially those who work for the Senior Work-off Program, who serve in different departments. Volunteerism empowers individuals to find their purpose, to take their passion and turn it into meaningful change. This is a time to honor the impact of all those who do good in our Town, and inspire others to make a difference. THAnK YOU!

The center will be holding a luncheon for our volunteers on Thursday, April 20th at noon. Please consider joining us to celebrate all of our volunteers and don’t forget to RSVP. As a senior citizen (65 or older before January 1st, 2023), you may be eligible to claim a refundable credit on your Massachusetts personal income tax return. The Circuit Breaker tax credit is based on the actual real estate taxes paid on the Massachusetts residential

property you own or rent and occupy as your principal residence.

FMI contact Massachusetts Dept of Revenue Customer Service at 617-8876367 or contact your accountant.

It’s that time of year to do some Spring Cleaning! To help defray the cost of postage, if you no longer want our monthly newsletter mailed to your home, please let us know, and we can remove your name off the mailing list. If you prefer to get the newsletter via your email, we can arrange for that too!

Pat nectow is back! Our SHInE Counselor, Pat, is back from hiatus and able to assist you with your health insurance questions and concerns. Pat will be at the center on Tuesday, April 25th at 9 a.m. Please call the center to schedule your appointment. Happy Spring and Happy Easter to all!

- Lisa

We are looking to see if there is an interest in playing Bridge at the senior center. If so, please call 508-278-8622.

Mondays, April 3rd, 10th & 24th –1:30 p.m. – Water Color Painting with Susan Franz. Please call ahead to sign up and let us know if you will be joining us for lunch. $6.00 donation per class. note:  See front desk when signing up. Payment is due upon signup.

Tuesday, April 4th – 1:30 pm – Bunny Pillow Sewing Craft with Sally. $7.00 donation. Please note:  See front desk when signing up for crafts. Payment is due upon signup.

Wednesday, April 5th, 12th, 19th & 26th; 9:30 a.m. - 10:15 a.m. new 8week Meditation Class continues at the

Senior Center with Dr. Tapscott.

Wednesday, April 5th – 1:30 p.m. –Learn the art of Pysanky! Come and 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. Free and provided through a grant from the Uxbridge Cultural Council. Registration is required and you must RSVP by April 3rd & class is limited to 20.

Thursday, April 6th – 10:30 a.m. –Veterans’ Services with Carl Bradshaw by appointment only. Call to sign up.

Thursdays, April 6th & Makeup classes April 13th & 20th: 1:30-2:30 p.m. ZUMBA at the McCloskey School.

Thursdays, April 6th & Makeup class April 13th: 2:45-3:30 p.m. Low Impact Exercise Class at McCloskey School.

Friday, April 7th – 12:00 p.m. –Lunch & Learn with Chief Montminy. Guest speaker will be Kate Pontes, Worcester Public Library and her topic will be the “Talking Book Library”. Please RSVP.

Tuesday, April 11th – 1:00 p.m. –Uxbridge Library Book Club. They will be discussing The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michele Richardson.

Friday, April 14th – Annual Easter Celebration sponsored by the Uxbridge Elderly Connection Inc. Entertainment will be provided by Bob Comtois! Call ahead to reserve your lunch.

Monday, April 17th – The Senior Center will be closed in observance of Patriots Day. We will re-open on Tuesday, April 18th.

Tuesday, April 18th – 1:00 p.m. –Benefit Enrollment Specialist – TriValley, Inc. Call the senior center to book an appointment with Katelynn Wackell. next date will be May 9th.

Wednesday, April 19th – 1:30 p.m. –3:30 p.m. – BInGO! Join us for a fun afternoon of BInGO & cash prizes! Packet of 10 games for $10.00. Let us know if you’d like to join us for lunch on this date by calling or stop in to RSVP. Transportation is available. note:  See front desk as payment is due upon signup.

Thursday, April 20th – 12:00 p.m. –Volunteer Recognition Day Luncheon. Today is the day we thank all of our wonderful volunteers for their help through out the year!

Monday, April 24th - 1:30 p.m. “Ask the Attorney” with Attorney Ralph Tepper by appointment only. Call 508278-8622 to schedule appointment.

Tuesday, April 25th: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. – SHInE Appointments available for health insurance questions with Pat nectow. Call 508-278-8622 to schedule.

Tuesday, April 25th - 11:00 a.m. –12:00 p.m. – Ask the nurse Free Blood Pressure Clinic with nancy Favulli, Salmon Health VnA. RSVP to participate and to join us for lunch.

Wednesday, April 26th – 11:00 a.m. –1:00 p.m. – Lunch Outing to Empire Buffet. no lunch will be served at the senior center on this day. Cost is $15.00 per person. Call to sign up early and you are welcome to meet us there as well. Van leaves Center at 10:30 a.m.

Please note:  See front desk as payment is due upon signup. Thank you for your cooperation!

Thursday, April 27th – 11:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. – “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.

Card Game played on Monday and BInGO on Wednesday during our lunches. no BInGO on 19th & 26th. Computer Class Tutoring every Monday – 3:00 p.m. by appointment only.  Please call ahead to sign up.  Hannaford grocery shopping every Tuesday. Pick up begins at 8:30 a.m. Please sign up in advance by calling us at 508-278-8622 to reserve your seat.

Knitting Club every Tuesday @ 1:30 p.m. – Come join the fun!

1st and 3rd Wednesdays – April 5th & 19th – Bank & Pharmacy Rides. Please call at least 24 hours in advance.

Wednesdays - “Canasta” Hand, Knee & Foot Card Game – 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. no Canasta on April 19th & 26th. 2nd & 4th Thursdays – April 13th & 27th – 8:30 a.m. - Shaws/Ocean State Shopping Rides. Please call at least 24 hours in advance.

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

The center is in need of the following donations: Lysol wipes, newly packaged napkins, paper towels, tissues, toilet paper, ground regular & decaf coffee. FMI call 508-278-8622 or visit: Uxbridge-ma.gov/coa.

UHS Science Olympiad takes 15th in State

The Uxbridge High School Science Olympiad team finished in 15th place out of 63 schools at the Massachusetts State Championships, held on Saturday, March 4 at Wentworth Institute of Technology. This year’s team finished with the best overall placement in school history, with multiple events earning medals and placing in the top ten of their respective events.

“We had certain goals going into the season in order to consider it a success,” said Science Olympiad Coach Elliot Lui, who teaches physics at UHS. “We had not earned a medal in the state tournament since 2019, which was before the pandemic, and this was our youngest and most inexperienced team in my six years coaching at Uxbridge. We really wanted to get a team to a position of earning a medal.”

UHS finished with multiple medalists, including:

Worcester State University posts Dean’s List

The following local students have been named to the Worcester State University Dean's List for Fall 2022. Dean's list honors are awarded to matriculated undergraduate students who have earned a 3.5 GPA or higher. Full-time students must have earned a minimum of 12 credits and parttime students must have earned a minimum of 6 credits.

DOUGLAS:

Delilah M Boucher, Emily C Brooks, nicolle E Forget, Joshua P Gopin, Garrett W Grann, Hanna R Kearney, Ryan J Klenk, Santina M MacGregor, Samantha I Meech, Olivia M Muscatell, Amelia M Skiba, Hailey K Skowronski, Arouny n Souphida, Erin S Theroux, Harley L Westgate, Rebekka L White, Ethan C Whitney

MAnCHAUG: Dylan T Bisson

nORTHBRIDGE:

Katelyn A Barrows, Grace O Demers, Callie M Ellis, Daniel M Fung-A-Fat, Joshua A Fung-A-Fat, Olivia K Lange, Ashley F Minior, Aubrey J Plante

SUTTOn:

Ayla M Allard, Katie Cofsky, Evan T Culross, Catherine R Forde, Matthew H Hicks, Fady Keriakos, Rebecca Manzano Howard, Emily M Milaszewski, Abigail J Ostrowski, Sydney M Pawlak, Joseph R Peduzzi, Holland A Redding, Kevin M Russo, Mackenzie A Sobaleski, Sarah E Stafinski

UXBRIDGE:

Peyton Bly, Amanda F Brodeur, Matthew R Johnston, Jade S Letendre, Olivia G Powell, Russell S Wise

WHITInSVILLE:

Forrest G Amtmann, Elizabeth R Bisaillon, Adam J Briand, Cassidy E Gies, Ansha Khan, Olesya J Kyrychok, Madison A Malone, Michael A Santurri, Alison C Warren

• Aerial Scramble, silver medal: Cam Caso and Dominic Silva

• Bridges, bronze medal: James Bernard and Jack Tasick

• Write It/Do It, silver medal: Stella Roy and Alicia Gauvin

In addition, several teams earned ribbons for top five finishes:

• It’s About Time, 5th Place: Sophie Compston and Dan Mach

• Experimental Design, 5th place: Sophie Compston, Julie Compston, and Jack Tasick

Each of the events require UHS students to compete against other teams from across the state, with specific criteria for each event. For example, “Aerial Scramble” required teams to build a kit airplane within an hour from scratch, which would then be timed for longest flight by time, while “Write It/Do It” required one teammate to write out specific instructions on how

to construct an apparatus, for the second team member to complete within a set time period. UHS had teams competing in 24 events, with top 15 finishes in Code Busters (7th place), Scrambler (13th place), and Forestry (14th place). The team as a whole narrowly missed a top-ten overall state finish.

“I’m so very proud of Mr. Lui and the team for its performances this season,” said UHS Principal Michael Rubin. “They continue to improve each year. I really marvel at the dedication of these competitors and Coach Lui to practice after school and sacrifice long weekend days to compete.”

UHS was the smallest public high school to compete at the state championship with an enrollment of 431 students in grades 9-12. Among schools from Central Massachusetts, the team finished behind only Westborough

High

who finished in 9th place.

School,

UHS’ Coach is also a member of the state Science Olympiad board and

attended the national conference for Science Olympiad in the summer of 2021.

Medalists above (l-r): Alicia Gauvin, Stella Roy, Julie Compston, Sophie Compston, James Bernard, Dominic Silva, Jack Tasick, Cam Caso and Dan Mach.

ALL STATE - ALL STARS - Front Row: (L to R) Aurora hawkins, Blaze Baldwin, isabel Roxo, & Sarah Jones. Back Row: Caroline Roxo, Jada Deyoung, Bernado Rodrigues & Mila Pachomski; not pictured; Savanna Westcott, Julia Rodrigues.

UHS Student Council earns Excellence Award

Uxbridge High School Principal Michael Rubin is proud to announce that the UHS Student Council earned a Gold Council of Excellence Award for 2023. The award was presented at the annual conference of Massachusetts Student Councils held in Hyannis, Massachusetts March 8-10.

“Our Student Council tirelessly works to promote and foster school spirit, connections to community, and service to others,” said Mr. Rubin. “Be it coordinating school-wide events such as our Spirit Week and Homecoming Dance, collecting donations for the food pantry, coordinating outreach to underserved populations, or simply volunteering to help teachers tidy classrooms, the Uxbridge School Council demands excellence of itself and others. This award is a deserved accolade that truly represents the best of UHS and what our students are capable of doing.”

The MASC Gold Council of Excellence is presented to those student council programs that are deemed to be the most outstanding in our state asso-

Whitin Students make All-State Honors Chorus

The following students who attend Whitin Intermediate School, Uxbridge, were accepted into the All-State Treble Chorus. Hundreds of students across the state in grades 4-6 audition to qual-

ify for the choral concert, which takes place on April 28 in Shrewsbury.

Sarah Jones, Mila Pachomski, Savanna Westcott, Aurora Hawkins, Isabel Roxo, Jada DeYoung, Julia Rodrigues,

Sepe Tree Service

Caroline Roxo, Bernado Rodrigues and Blaze Baldwin all received high scores qualifying them to take part in the honors chorus.

Applicants are judged on the following qualities of their singing voice: note Accuracy, Consonants, Tone Quality, Phrasing & Style, Rhythmic Accuracy, Vowels, Tonality & Musicality.

MA All-State Treble Chorus is sponsored by Massachusetts Music Educators Association.

ciation. The Gold Council is based on achieving over 46 points on our scoring rubric as determined by the judging committee. UHS compiled a portfolio of its endeavors in the community, which includes evidence of civic engagement, participation in service projects, endeavors that unite the student body and community, and effective processes for encouraging student leadership. The UHS Student Council is under the direction of advisor Sheila Bernard, who also works as an English teacher and department leader at UHS.

“It is an honor to advise our Student Council," said Mrs. Bernard. "The members of our council are leaders in our school and community. They never hesitate to help those in need, and put in countless hours to make things happen.”

“This organization and its advisor especially and undeniably put the school and community first in all they do - their standards set for each other, established by advisors and officers and collectively endorsed by all members, serve as a paradigm for other organizations and the school as a whole,” Mr. Rubin said. “Most significantly, Ms. Bernard ensures that this group is consistently working together, always puts others first, and thinks of ways to make our school and community better, and her efforts toward those ends are so appreciated.”

This year’s student officers include President Matthew DiLibero, Vice President Luke Esposito, Secretary Morgan Ouellette, Treasurer James Bernard, Historian Ben Roerden, PR Meghan Smith, and Delegates Kellen Lachapelle and Abby Oliveira. Some of the organization’s events that led to this

award include their organization of the annual Homecoming events and pep rally, volunteer efforts at town meetings, providing support for youth events across town, promoting inclusion through their partnership with Special Olympics Massachusetts, and engaging in town-wide cleanups. UHS has earned Gold or Silver Council Awards each year since 2013.

Whitin Intermediate Honor Students

Whitin Intermdiate School recently released their Term 2 Honor Roll. high honors Grade 6: Kylie Alicea, Oscar Berard, Alice Black, Patrick Brauninger, Madeleine Buckley, Michael Caffrey, Julianna Casper, Gavin Dwyer, Calum Fortin, Max Gaudet, Bryce Hewett, Taylor Jansen, William Khondker, Joseph King, Corey Levesque, nathan Loveless, nelyra Marquez, Zirkle, Mackenzie Matthews, Adriana O'Connor, Cole Pezzullo, Caroline Roxo, Isabel Roxo, Skyla Sokol, Shea Stone, Grayden Tierney, and Kamiela Torku.

high honors Grade 7: Evan Bourgeois, Elyse Bousquet, Matteo Casasanta, Jaidyn DeLuca, Tucker Denietolis, Jacob Dzivasen, Paige Foley, Everett Hazel, Ashton Khondker, Jessica Labonte, Carly McKay, Zooey Pominville, Olivia Rivet, James Sadd, Emmett Sharr, Abigail Spiecker, Adeline Tartakoff, and David Zaitoun.

honors Grade 6: Trevor Barbuto, Amelia Belanger, Michael Brosnahan, Kadence Chabot, Mackenzie Coleman, Aiyanah Cosme, Charlotte Cunniff, Hope Donnelly, Arlen Ebbeling, Connor Gosselin, Alana Haggas, Shane Hamm, Cameron Hendricks, Thomas Johnson, Kamryn Lachapelle, Ryan Lavergne, Mia Manning, Enzo Mello Santos, Ayla Moore, Gabriel Pendleton, Gia Polselli, Chase Poulos, Karina Remillard, Guilherme Resende, Greyson Rollins, Cheyenne Ross, Jake Scott, Abigail Simonds, Olivia Stoico, and natalie Taylor.

honors Grade 7: Cooper Burdick, Kendra Cabana, Stacy Calderon, Lily Derouen, Logan Fleming, Margaret Fox, Violet Fratus, Elliot Gnatek, Casey Griffiths, Benjamin Johnson, Balin Jones, Katelyn Laflamme, Madyn Lame, Logan Leshinski, Ryder Lovell, Clayton Maracle, Cooper McCuin, nathan najarro Rivera, Thomas newhall, nadia nolan, Elijah norman, Shea Paxton, Jack Posterro, Ava Rosborough, Benjamin Rota, Mason Soucy, and Avery Wood.

Happy Easter!

business review

Open Sky announces staff member promotions

Open Sky Community Services, a human services agency based in Worcester with 1,200 employees and over 100 programs throughout Central Massachusetts, has promoted two senior staff members to executive roles. The organization is moving to a struc-

offers a wide range of services for adults, adolescents, and children experiencing mental health challenges, developmental and intellectual disabilities, substance use disorders, brain injury, homelessness and other complex challenges. Formed in 2018

BVCC hosts Business After Hours Event

The Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce’s (BVCC), Food, Beverage and Hospitality network (FBHn) is pleased to announce the return of our premier Spring networking event, Business After Hours, held on the evening of April 6, 2023, and hosted at the rustic and relaxing Purgatory Beer Co., 670 Linwood Avenue, Building C, Whitinsville. This after-work, after hours networking event, will begin at 5:30pm and go until 7:30pm. Pre-registration is required, and is open to Members and Future Members of the Chamber.

Business After Hours (BAH) is an exciting way for business professionals to connect and share ideas with other members and local professionals in a relaxed, social atmosphere that will directly benefit you and your business. Enjoy a hand-crafted ice-cold refreshing beer provided by Purgatory Beer, and sample some local tasty quintessential bar bites perfectly paired for this relationship-building event.

Valley!” said, Jeannie Hebert, President and CEO of the Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce.

loneil@blackstonevalley.org.

Register online at www.blackstonevalley.org/events. Members $20, Future Members $30. Please RSVP by March 30, 2023. For more information, please contact Liz O’neil at 508.234.9090 ext. 102 or email Liz at,

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. Send

ture where services, business growth, and transformation operate under the same leadership, with the goal of strengthening service delivery and support for employees.

nancy Bishop, MSW, has been promoted to the role of Executive Vice President & Chief Clinical Officer. Bishop has been with Open Sky, previously The Bridge of Central Mass, since 1989 serving most recently as SVP of new Business and Systems Transformation. She will oversee service delivery, business development, transformation, and strategic growth throughout the agency. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from Anna Maria College and a Master’s degree in Social Work from Boston University. nancy is a member of nASW, and a former board member of nAMI of Central MA.

David Lambert, MPA, has been promoted to the role of Vice President of Business Development. Lambert has been with the organization since 2017, most recently serving as Director of Business Development and Health Integration. With over 20 years of experience in Health and Human Services in both the public and private sectors, he will work collaboratively with service leaders throughout the agency to develop and implement plans for sustainability and growth that are aligned with the agency’s strategic initiatives. Lambert earned his Bachelor of Arts from the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts and his Master’s of Public Administration from Clark University. He also served for 10 years in the Massachusetts Army national Guard.

ABOUT OPEn SKY:

Open Sky Community Services, Inc.

through the affiliation of Alternatives Unlimited, Inc. and The Bridge of Central Mass-achusetts, Open Sky today has 1,200 employees and an annual budget of over $100 million with more than 100 programs throughout the region. For more information, please visit www.openskycs.org.

“Springtime comes with the refreshing promise of new growth, and what better way to jump start new growth within your business, than to join us for our Business After Hours event. Showcase your goods and services to other local business professionals and increase your exposure for success and growth. We are proud to offer this exemplary event to engage, meet and forge new business connections with other professionals in the Blackstone

Cove Insurance Agency

Nancy Bishop, MSW

David Lambert, MPA

Girl Scouts Receive $2,500 from Webster Five Foundation

Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts (GSCWM) is pleased to announce it has received a $2,500 grant from the Webster Five Foundation in support of ‘It’s A Girls World’, one of the community based programs it offers.

The after-school program engages Worcester County girls in grades K-6 in STEM, Financial Literacy, and Health & Personal Wellness topics. “We are so grateful to Webster Five Foundation for helping to provide girls with the opportunity to foster a sense of belonging and explore their true potential and leadership abilities through It’s A Girls World”, said Pattie Hallberg, GSCWM CEO. “Through the program participants are creating new friendships,

Violette named Five Star Wealth Manager

embracing healthy risks, and exploring opportunities through the Girl Scout Experience.”

With the generous support of contributors such as  Webster Five Foundation, Girl Scouts provides enriching and progressive programs, including day and overnight camps, to enable members to realize their own potential and gain critical skills they will carry throughout their lives.

The Webster Five Foundation provides grants to local nonprofit organizations or programs that support expanding or improving access to education, culture and the arts, social services, charitable activities and community development. Since its inception, the Foundation has donated over $3.1M.

Darren Violette, a Principal of Profectus Financial Partners, has earned the designation of Five Star Wealth Manager. This is the eighth consecutive year Violette has been awarded this distinction. The Five Star Wealth Manager award is annually given to financial managers who are identified through research conducted with peers and firms; the program analyzes internal and external research data, including a survey to more than 3,000 registered financial services professionals and all local financial service companies registered with FInRA or the SEC, to select each year’s winners.

nominated wealth managers who satisfied a total of ten objective eligibility and evaluation criteria are awarded this prestigious title. Darren attended Bryant University and is a resident of

Whitinsville, Massachusetts.

Headquartered in Whitinsville, Profectus Financial Partners (Profectus is Latin for success or growth) is a leading strategic advisory planning firm that acts as your retirement outfitters –locating and providing the financial equipment necessary for your journey. As your retirement planning outfitters, we help allow our clients to experience retirement as the great adventure that it should be rather than as the perilous and frightening grind that it may be for too many. PFP helps ensure you have the appropriate retirement planning equipment as well as the proper advice along the way. We seek to leave you with freedom, fulfillment, and love rather than an anxious existence. To learn more, please visit ProfectusFP. com.

Women’s Bible Study Discover Psalms: Hope When We’re Hurting

Coffee Break,  a non-denominational community Bible study for women will open their spring season with a study of selected Psalms, called, “Hope when we’re hurting,” beginning on Thursday morning, April 13th.  The Psalms we’ll be looking at are titled, “From Longing to Hope, From Sickness to Shelter, From Distress to Deliverance, From Desperation to Dancing, and From Sinfulness to Salvation.

The study will be in small groups at Fairlawn Church—and we offer groups for those who feel more comfortable wearing masks, as well as groups for those who prefer not to wear masks. All the study groups are physically distanced in spacious rooms. Refreshments are provided, and child care is available for infants through pre-school age.

Coffee  Break  is free and open to anyone in the community and is held each  Thursday from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m.  at Fairlawn Church. Coffee Break offers women in the Blackstone Valley an opportunity to read and discuss the Bible, share questions and concerns, and develop new friendships. Each lesson is independent, so if you can’t attend every week, you won’t feel “lost.” There’s no “homework” required, and no previous Bible knowledge is necessary. Study guides and bibles are provided free of charge. Fairlawn Church is located at 305 Goldthwaite Road (off Hill  Street) in Whitinsville.   For directions, questions, or to get more information, call  Ginette at  508-234-4806 or visit fairlawncrc.org/outreach/coffeebreak.cfm.

hOME - SWEET - hOME: Michael Shain (pictured above) the founder and president of Thanks To yanks a local nonprofit dedicated to serve those who serve, recently shipped Girl Scout cookies. Shain says “ Nothing is more welcoming to those deployed than delicious Girl Scout Cookies”. FMi: On Thanks To yanks visit FB, if you know of anyone deployed that could use a care package, please reach out them.

Tim Jones is a self-syndicated Comic Strip Artist, and a member of the National Cartoonist Society.

Darren violette

Bay State Summer Games Registration Open

Registration for the 41st  annual Bay State Summer Games is now open. The 2023 Summer Games will include thirty sports with competitions from June 3 – July 29 at venues throughout eastern and central Massachusetts including Game On in Fitchburg, Boston Sports Institute in Wellesley, Union Point Sports Complex in Weymouth, and new England Sports Center in Marlborough.

Bay State Games participants range in age from 5 to over age 75 and represent more than 300 Massachusetts communities as well as surrounding new England States in some sports. From grassroots participants to accomplished amateur athletes, the Bay State Games provide opportunities for the athlete in all of us.

Eight high school showcase sports will take place for a variety of sports, including baseball, basketball, field hockey, ice hockey, lacrosse, soccer, softball, and volleyball. Athletes currently in grade 8-11 who live or go to school in Massachusetts are eligible to attend regional tryouts during the month of June. These tryouts will determine teams representing the various regions of the Commonwealth that will compete against each other in July. Check each sport page for specific eligibility requirements.

The Summer Games include a wide

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variety of individual sports including swimming, track & field, figure skating, pickleball, wrestling, weightlifting, archery, judo, badminton, and more. These sports are open to a wide range of ages and skill levels from youth participants to masters-aged athletes. Adaptive sport divisions in archery, swimming, and track & field are offered, as well.

Bay State Games also organizes tournaments for pre-existing teams in girls lacrosse, rugby, and 6v6 field hockey.

The 2023 Summer Games will feature Game On in Fitchburg as the host venue for 8 sports. Bay State Games expects 1,500 athletes and their families to attend competitions at Game On during the second week of July. “We are excited to expand the roster of sports being held at Game On this year,” said Kevin Cummings, Executive Director of the Bay State Games.

“This state-of-the-art facility allows us to enhance the athlete and spectator experience and provide a true Olympicstyle multi-sport atmosphere for our participants.”

An additional feature in 2023 is that in over a dozen sports, athletes who win a gold, silver, or bronze medal at the 2023 Bay State Games will qualify to participate in the 2024 State Games of America in San Diego, California. The

State Games of America feature more than 8,000 athletes from over 30 different state games programs nationwide.

To see the list of qualifying sports, please visit  www.stategamesofamerica.com.

In addition to sports programming, Bay State Games offer college scholarships, a sportsmanship initiative, college internship opportunities, and a High School Ambassador program. For more information on all sports in the 2023 Summer Games, links to online registration, and information on other programs, go to  www.baystate games.org. For questions, email  info@baystategames.org  or call  781-932-6555.

ABOUT THE MASSACHUSETTS AMATEUR SPORTS

FOUnDATIOn/BAY STATE GAMES

The Massachusetts Amateur Sports Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that was established in 1982 to host the first sanctioned state games of the Commonwealth. It operates with the mission of promoting personal development, education, physical fitness, teamwork, and sportsmanship to Massachusetts citizens of all ages and abilities. The Foundation is recognized for hosting high quality, Olympic-style events through the Bay State Summer and Winter Games, as well as educational programs, including the Future Leaders Scholarship Program, and the High School Ambassador Program.

Family Fun Fishing Day to be held May 6

Open Sky Community Services is excited to co-host the 8th Annual Family Fun Fishing Day at Riverbend Farm in Uxbridge along with the Blackstone River national Heritage Corridor Volunteers-in-Parks Program, the Blackstone River Watershed Association, Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation, Massachusetts Division of Fisheries & Wildlife.

This year's event will be held on Saturday May 6th from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. with a rain date of Sunday, May 7th. There will be activities for the whole family, ice cream will be available for purchase from Sweet Wise Ice Cream truck, as well as food, face

painting and raffles. All ages and ability levels welcome.

Fishing poles, bait and instruction will be available with pre-registration and participants are welcome to bring their own. This is a catch and release event for everyone from first time fishers to experienced anglers, with prizes for each age group. Adults must accompany children under 12.

Registration will open April 1st at thebrwa.org/familyfishing2023. This is a FREE event, but pre-registration is required. Please contact Lori Girard with any questions at 508-234-6232 or lori.girard@openskycs.org.

Intrepid Readers discuss: Sailing Alone Around the World

Please join the Intrepid Readers at the Simon Fairfield Public Library, 290 Main Street, Douglas, Tuesday, April 11th at 6:30 p.m.  for take 2 of a discussion of Sailing Alone Around the World  by Captain Joshua Slocum who recounts his 3 year voyage beginning in 1898, sailing solo in a 37 foot yawl.

CLASSIFIEDS

It is an amazing story, and we encourage anyone who likes adventure to come to our meeting. Books are available at the Library. Audio is available through Libby as are eBooks. Call the Library at 508-476-2695 for more information. Refreshments inspired by the book will be served.

Whitten recipient of Ben G. Mondor Award

Chris Whitten, Broker/Owner of Premeer Real Estate, recently received the Ben G. Mondor Award from the northern Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce at the chamber’s 32nd Annual Celebration held at Bally’s Twin River Lincoln Casino Resort. This award is presented annually to honor a Chamber member who exhibits the same philanthropic spirit that Ben Mondor, former owner of the Pawtucket Red Sox, had and who goes above and beyond philanthropically within the community.

Whitten was honored for his many contributions to the community including Premeer Gives Back (PGB), a program he launched in 2019 that donates $150 of each successful closing to a local charity on the PGB beneficiary

list. 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. 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.

“Even though this award has my name on it, it’s shared equally with my amazing wife, Lindsey Whitten, our entire Premeer Real Estate family, and our beloved clients. They truly deserve the accolades!” said Premeer Real Estate Broker/Owner, Chris Whiten. “One person can only accomplish so much. But as a team, we can move mountains. Together, we can truly make a difference.”

Chris Whitten