The New Uxbridge Times - May, 2022

THE NEW

Uxbridge Times Established in 1991 Vol. 31 • Issue 5

Over 21,000 Copies Mailed Free

UxbrIdge • North UxbrIdge • LINwood • doUgLas • NorthbrIdge • whItINsVILLe • sUttoN • MaNchaUg

MaY 2022

Main St. Façade Program Receives $50,000 Grant On April 4th, Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce President and CEO, Jeannie Hebert, uxbridge’s Director Department of Economic Development and Community Planning, Michael Gallerani, State representative Michael Soter, State representative Joseph McKenna, and State Senator ryan Fattman announced that the Town of uxbridge received $50,000 through the regional Economic Development Organization (rEDO) Grant Program. Grant funding will be used to further develop the uxbridge Main Street Façade Program.

With this funding, the Town of uxbridge will focus on the design phase of a series of Façades in the downtown area. This phase of the program will support the efforts of a design team to consider each commercial building in the Main Street Corridor, from CVS to the Cocke and Kettle property, individually as well as collectively to create a theme that ultimately will create the uxbridge sense of place.

By the conclusion of this phase, the Town will have visualizations for eighty of the two hundred commercial buildings located in the Main Street District (North Main, Downtown, and South Main St). The façade proposals for each building will include visualizations, written descriptions for each visualization strategy, and a written summary of the overall strategy for each of the three districts within the Main Street Corridor.

“The BVCC is pleased to be the conduit in obtaining the funding from MOBD to assist uxbridge in their downtown project. It’s what our team and the chamber is here for,” stated Jeannie Hebert, Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce President and CEO. “The rEDO grant is an important supporting tool as we move forward with our multi-faceted Main Street

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Initiative. Facades are a cornerstone element of any effort to create an interesting and welcoming sense of place.

This grant will allow us to show the ‘what if’ scenarios to business and property owners, investors, local officials and the community,” commented uxbridge’s Director Department of Economic Development and Community Planning, Michael Gallerani.

“I’m thrilled to see the collaboration between the Town of uxbridge and the BVCC on this grant,” commented State representative Michael Soter. “This coordinated effort will work to transform downtown uxbridge and accentuate the naturally charming atmosphere of the Main Street Corridor.”

“I am pleased to see that the town of uxbridge is the benefactor of this rEDO grant program,” said Senator Fattman. “The selection of this project for grant funding is a continued investment of the Administration that will foster economic growth in this area. I am thankful for the hard work put forth by the town and the Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce to secure this grant funding.”

"I am thrilled that this grant will bring resources from the Commonwealth to support the vision uxbridge has to develop and maintain a beautiful downtown that will bring pride to all," added representative McKenna. "The state providing resources and support for towns who work in partnership with local businesses is a model for success."

The goal of the regional Economic Development Organization (rEDO) is to support businesses seeking assistance from the Commonwealth.

Working with the Office of Business Development the Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce will work to facilitate regional projects that grow businesses and the Massachusetts economy. Their successes attract new employers and foster existing businesses.

PrESOrTED STANDArD uS POSTAGE PAID BOSTON, MA PErMIT NO 55800

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There is nothing like Springtime in New England.

Support for Applied Science Curriculum at N.M.S. Northbridge Public Schools has been awarded a grant from the One8 Foundation through the OpenSciEd Equitable Instruction (OEI) Initiative at Boston College to fund implementation of OpenSciEd, a middle school applied science curriculum using phenomenonbased instruction and aligned to Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).

OpenSciEd is a nonprofit organization that brings together educators, philanthropic organizations, curriculum developers, and professional development providers to improve science education through the development and implementation of high-quality, freely available science instructional materials.

It is an exciting moment in science education in the Commonwealth as a group of schools transition to phenomena-based instruction that actively engages students in solving and sensemaking of science. OpenSciEd aligns with the intent of the Next Generation Science Standards and Massachusetts

Book & Bake Sale The Friends of the Uxbridge Free Public Library will be hosting a Book and Bake Sale. This very popular event will be held on Saturday, May 14th from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. There will be delicious home baked speciality items, such as pies, cakes and cookies for sale. Also available

Curriculum Framework. It is a bold move and a huge step forward on the vision for science education for students that will prepare students for a rapidly changing world.

The One8 Foundation is supporting the scale of OpenSciEd in Massachusetts with the most recent group of 36 schools from 19 districts receiving grants to support OpenSciEd implementation starting in the 2022-2023 school year. This group of 36 schools represents the second grant cohort and joins 40 schools from 23 districts who were funded last year. Grant funding will support professional development workshops and durable equipment costs associated with implementing OpenSciEd. In addition to grant funding, members of the OpenSciEd program receive implementation support, priority access to in-state workshops, and additional professional learning resources and student programming through the OpenSciEd Equitable

will be a great assortment of children’s, young adult and adult books for you to choose from.

Come and grab a couple tasty items to have while reading your new book. Please note that book donations can be brought to the library starting April 1st.

The Uxbridge Free Public Library is located at 15 North Main Street, Uxbridge, MA.

Instruction (OEI) Initiative based at the Lynch School at Boston College as well as Mass STEM Hub, a program of the One8 Foundation. The One8 Foundation fully funded the startup and operation of the OEI initiative so that schools in Massachusetts will have robust professional development for this innovative science curriculum.

Mrs. Jill Healy, Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment stated that students need to be inquisitive about the world around them and question what they don’t understand. “Our students will work in careers that are yet to be conceived. The parameters of the problems they will face will be unique and changing. The outcomes of the paths they choose will determine the solutions that even they may not have anticipated. Our goal is to prepare students to probe things they don’t understand, inquire based on prior knowledge, and understand where and how continued on page 8

~ INDEX ~ Town News.........Page 4 Society……....…Page 15 Senior Corner.....Page 17 School News....Page 21 Business News...Page 23 Classified...........Page 26

PAgE 2

MAY 2022

Letters to the Editor: We are running for a position to serve the Town of Uxbridge Deborah “Deb” Baisley I am writing this letter today, because I am running for the Board of Health in uxbridge, and I am asking for your vote on May 24th. I am the only candidate who knows firsthand the impact of health regulations on a small business.

My husband and I started a small upick blueberry farm here in 2009 where many of you have visited for fresh produce and recreation with your children.

I have lived in town for 37 years and during that time I spent many volunteer hours hoping to make a difference. My volunteering started in the schools when my daughter was a student and went on as a member of the uxbridge Woman’s Club, President twice, and Secretary twice. I helped raise money for scholarships every year, sent girls to Girls State, and participated in fundraisers for many other projects in the town not the least of which were a special camera for the fire department, and furnishings for the police department. I am currently president of the Friends of the uxbridge Free Public Library because I believe in the free services to be found there for everyone and the wonderful staff that make it all possible. So, you see, I have not traveled to the far reaches of the globe or the lofty rooms of the executive suite, but have been here with you working hard to make uxbridge a great place to live and raise a family. I also come at community health from many different perspectives. My qualifications are as follows: I graduated from college with a BS in Nutrition and worked in area health care facilities as a registered Dietitian.

I oversaw proper food handling and sanitation in institutional kitchens as well as the nutritional care of patients. I went on to obtain a Masters of Education in Special Education and taught for 13 years. I am certified to teach Health at the high school level. I worked as a realtor for over 10 years helping people navigate the purchase of a home, so I know about regulations regarding lead paint, radon and Title 5 septic requirements and what it takes to make sure people are living in a safe environment.

I have a science background, but I am also someone who knows that book knowledge is not enough, but must be combined with good old fashioned common sense. I promise to work hard for you as a Board of Health member. I ask again for your vote for that opportunity to serve.

Patrick Hannon I’m Patrick Hannon and I’m asking for your vote for Select Board and Finance Committee. I align my skills and background to opportunities where I feel I can make an impact in our community.

I strive to align my skill set with an open opportunity. As an example, I am just finishing a three-year term on the uxbridge Finance Committee, I used my experience as a businessman employing over 250 people and understanding how crucial accurate financial information is during the decision-making process to force changes in accounting practices, increase transparency on access to financial records

and track spending. I put those skills to work in every uxbridge budget meeting, I enjoy my time serving on a town board as a retired senior citizen, helping shape the quality of life through prosperous, balanced, and sustainable budget and policy development. The current Board vacancies will need to be filled by someone who has a local, experienced community-focused passion for serving the taxpayers and being “all in” on making uxbridge an affordable town to live in for years to come. and I’m confident I have proven myself the past six years and I am the right candidate for the role.

Why I’m Qualified I offer a conservative perspective to the Select Board and Finance Committee. I served on the Conservation Commission for three years, two years as Chairman. I was then elected to a threeyear term on the Finance Committee. I am a conservative person and joined the fincom to force change in financial transparency and expose how tax dollars were being spent, and I was successful in forcing reductions in unreasonable charges being taken from enterprise funds to balance the general budget.

Ability to quickly understand and clarify issues, asking probing questions to tackle or expose the real issue, determine best paths to finding solutions, identify necessary resources for problem resolution, using a creative thinking approach, working collaboratively with cross-functional teams, and through it all, I believe I’ve also honed three key character traits that define a strong work ethic: Integrity; I will uphold the commitment I have made and will make to my supportive community, past and present.

Fairness; I will listen to and understand issues, act responsibly, and execute collaboratively.

Optimism; I love this town and think it has a great future. I want to help move uxbridge forward while retaining the character that many of us chose as the reason to live here.

Thank you for reading, and I hope that I can earn your vote!

Jennifer Modica My name is Jennifer Modica and I am running for the 1-year seat on the uxbridge Finance Committee. I have been a resident of uxbridge for over 25 years, my husband Stephen and I raised our 4 children in the town and I have volunteered with many organizations including Girl Scouts, Boys Scout, the republican Town Committee and the Food Pantry. As a Finance Committee member, I will bring a wealth of knowledge including my 6 years on the Board of Selectmen, 4 years on the School Committee and over 25 years as a town meeting participant. As a member of the Finance Committee, I will ask the hard questions, ensure transparency for the residents of uxbridge and bring my fiscal conservatism to the position. I am the only candidate actively fighting to get the taxpayers in town a permanent tax break by sponsoring a citizen petition for the spring town meeting on May 10th requesting the Board of Selectmen put forward a ballot question

for an underride that would permanently reduce the levy limit by $1.4 million.

I hope that you will consider voting for me on May 24th for the 1-year Finance Committee seat. Thank you.

Christine Pezzullo My name is Christine Pezzullo and I am asking for your vote on May 24th for a seat on School Committee. My family and I have been residents of uxbridge for almost 10 years. We chose uxbridge because we see the value of raising our children in a small community. Our three children are growing up in the uxbridge School system and have spent time in each of our schools. My husband Mike and I have been very active in the town. Mike coaches' soccer and baseball and is currently a member of the uxbridge Baseball Association board. We both have served on the uxbridge Youth Soccer board in the past.

I attended rhode Island College for elementary education. I began my career at a YMCA in Seekonk MA. For eleven years I was responsible for licensing, staffing, curriculum and budget development. Most of these programs were held in our community schools. It was my job to maintain working relationships with each school’s administration. During the summer months I oversaw the operation of two American Camping Accredited camps. One of my proudest achievements was implementing a program for children on 210-day IEPS (children that receive services through the school system over the summer months) and collaborating with the rhode Island School for the Deaf.

Children were able to attend camp with their model peers and receive services in the camp setting.

When my youngest started kindergarten I began volunteering at Taft Early Learning Center. I was elected to the PTO board after a few months of volunteering. I served on that board for four years, President for the last two. I served three years on the School Council under two different administrators at Taft ELC. After a year of volunteering and working as a substitute teacher I was hired as a full-time support staff. During that time, I was appointed to an administration hiring committee by Dr. Tiano. I also sat on the negotiation team for current unit D contracts.

I have always taken an interest in our schools and over the last several years I have paid close attention to our school committee meetings by attending in person or via Zoom. COVID really forced administration, staff, parents, and students to pivot many times over.

Ensuring the improvement of meaningful interpersonal relationships among students, staff and the community is vital for a full recovery. It will take transparency, communication, and trust for our school community to recover from this global pandemic.

Of all the roles I have undertaken within our schools the most important is the role of a parent. No matter where any parent stands on an issue their voice needs to be heard and respected.

Every parent wants what they think is

best for their child. A parent is their child’s number one advocate and all parents deserve a seat at the table when it comes to their children’s education. I believe that one way we can improve is through empowering our School Councils. School Councils are a way to have community members participate in budget development, policy making and serve as a link with our school committee.

As a School Committee member my first priority will be our students. I will act in accordance with what I believe is best for our children, our families, and our community as a whole. I will put in the work prior to each meeting so that I understand all items being discussed on the agenda. I will engage in conversation, ask questions and move the conversation forward. I understand that I will be a representative of the voters and I look forward to being the voice for the parents of uxbridge students. I am qualified for a seat on our School Committee due to my understanding of the committee’s role in our education system, my knowledge of the issues, and my experience as a volunteer, past employee and parent. I humbly ask for your vote on May 24th.

Arthur Poisson My name is Arthur Poisson and I am a candidate for the Finance Committee.

I’ve been a resident of uxbridge for 35 years. Most people know me because I have operated a remodeling business called Work of Art Builders for 34 years. I am running for a seat on the finance committee for a couple reasons. reason number one (1) is I believe I will help our town by providing sound financial advice on the town spending and maximizing our tax revenue dollars with a responsible and common-sense approach. In my business, it is imperative to stay within the budgeted allowances so that each job can be completed for the amount that was agreed upon. At times, it has required negotiations to meet the final cost estimates. I possess the negotiating experience and will be able to effectively communicate and work with other committee members. reason number two (2) for running is that it’s obvious that over the last 5 or 6 years, the political environment has become extremely controversial and divided. This is evident not only at the federal and state levels, but also at the local level. I am a person who believes in our God-given rights, such as life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, and also our constitutional rights. It seems to me that these rights are trying to be taken away from us in a slow and methodical manner.

We cannot just sit there and complain and not do anything. I am getting involved with my town because I want to be part of the solution and not part of the problem. Political affiliation is not a factor in our nonpartisan town government. Simply stated, you should elect the person who has the best interests of the uxbridge residents in mind. When elected, I will uphold the oath to make the best decisions for the residents of the town of uxbridge as a whole. The town is an enterprise, and needs to be handled as such. The future should not

be dictated by a single individual or a small group of people’s personal motives. All long-term projects and expenditures need to be considered and closely examined. I hold no ties to past projects and will offer a fresh perspective to the spending of our tax dollars.

In closing, I humbly ask for your vote on May 24th for the finance committee.

For those of you that are reading this that are not registered to vote, I urge you to reconsider and register to vote and make your vote count. It will take less than 10 minutes of your time.

Thank you, and God Bless America!

Patrick Stephan As a member of the uxbridge Charter review Committee that was appointed early in 2020 and dismissed by the Selectmen in late 2021, I encourage residents to get involved at Spring Town Meeting on May 22nd to help pass amendments to the town charter that were the results of at least 30 meetings held by the committee in 2020 and 2021. A requirement in the charter is for the Charter review Committee to present a report at Town Meeting in the year following establishment of the committee, which was done on the first night of the 2021 Fall Town Meeting. Due to circumstances related to controversy on several issues of content and process, the committee did not present its recommended changes to the charter on the second night of Fall Town Meeting, as would have been allowed under the charter for a multiple member body.

As mentioned in a letter to the New uxbridge Times from Susan Franz that was published in the April, 2022 issue, a group of citizens reviewed the work of the Charter review Committee (note that the term “Charter review Commission” was improperly used in that letter) and submitted a Citizens Petition for inclusion of several charter amendments on the Spring 2022 Town Meeting warrant. The group of citizens decided to pull out some of the more controversial proposals from the work of the Charter review Committee and proposed to use the process for adopting the amendments as stated in MGL Chapter 43B Section 10.

The uxbridge Home rule Charter is reviewed every 10 years and we understand that things change. The charter is, essentially, the Constitution of the town of uxbridge and defines many functions of government. Like many other citizens, I did not know about the charter when I moved here or hear about this document and how important it is to the function of town government.

Our committee worked diligently to add new features, such as requirements for financial audits, posting of relevant information on the town website in addition to publication in a newspaper, establishing a Human resources position and fixing non-substantive language throughout the document.

We look forward to seeing you at town meeting and ask for your support in getting these amendments passed!

Many are long overdue and all will change town government for the better!

Get Out And Vote!

MAY 2022

PAgE 3

Letters to the Editor______________________________________

Noise pollution harmful to the environment To the Editor: April 22nd was Earth Day - a time to celebrate nature and to protect the earth against pollution. Excessive noise is an often-neglected form of environmental pollution. Most Americans are constantly bombarded by excessive noise—but in the Seacoast motorcycles with illegal aftermarket exhausts are increasingly becoming ubiquitous.

All this acoustic chaos is very harmful. High noise levels are associated with heart disease, elevated blood pressure, hearing loss, sleep deprivation, ringing of the ears, headaches, and chronic fatigue. Excessive noise is a cause of reduced property values and decreased job and academic performance. Noise is also a climate change issue. Aftermarket mufflers on motor-

cycles generally remove the catalytic converter that a stock motorcycle is sold with. An EPA study indicates that a gas-powered motorcycle engine without such emissions equipment creates as much nitrogen oxide emissions and volatile organic compounds in one hour as 11 cars being driven for one hour.

These aftermarket exhaust systems do not comply with federal DOT standards, therefore are not legal for use on public roads. Furthermore, the state of New Hampshire has laws in place limiting the noise allowed for motorcycles, and some towns including Portsmouth have equipment to test motorcycles for compliance. Sit outside (or unfortunately inside) on a nice day and you will hear that these rules are not followed or enforced.

Thank You for your help Dear Editor, Thank you, Douglas residents, cans and plastic bottles that have the 5-cent deposit are being collected at the Douglas Transfer Station for the benefit of several non-profit groups in Douglas. Ben’s Containers and rubbish has loaned eight trash containers with hinged covers to make the col-

lection easier and more weather resistant. And thanks to all of the Douglas residents who have helped make this effort a success. Well over 100,000 cans and bottles have been returned for the deposit resulting in over $5000.00 for the coffers of the Douglas non-profit groups.

- Dick Skinner

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What can be done? residents should contact their representatives and local police with any questions and with suspected violations. They should also encourage police to vigorously enforce existing noise ordinances. Also, study Noise Free America website : www.noisefree.org Signed, Leo Nozruk

G.S.Cookies were collected by SU 109 (A Valley United). They cover Douglas, Uxbridge & Northbridge/Whitinsville. Troops 64655,65189,64888, 64806 and 64825 collected as part of cookie sales this season. Pictured is Hannah ( a Junior Girl Scout in troop 64825) with Mike Shain the president and founder of Thanks To Yanks a local charity dedicated to serve those who serve.

Thanks To Yanks will be shipping the cookies to those deployed.

PAgE 4

MAY 2022

town News Douglas looks for survey participants Open Space & Recreation Planning residents, visitors, and business owners are asked to participate in the Douglas Open Space & recreation Plan Survey available through June 1st.

“We are working on updating our Open Space and recreation Plan regarding the Town's open space and recreation facilities. This is one tool we are using to gauge interest in what the town offers and what the town might plan to offer in the years to come,” Susan Perkins, the Douglas Open Space Committee Chair said. Participating in this important survey that is available through the town’s website, via this link https://www.surveymon-

key.com/r/DouglasOSrP or by the Qr code will give the committee input on how the Town of Douglas will manage open space and recreation resources,

and will inform future projects that the Town hopes to pursue. If you use Douglas facilities and parks and are interested in their open space and recre-

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ation opportunities, please take a few minutes to answer the survey questions. responses for this survey will be anonymous and not attributed to individuals.

Surveys must be completed by June 1st. A public forum will also be held at a later date to discuss potential open space and recreation improvements for the town.

A completed Open Space and recreation Plan on file with the Commonwealth is important to the success of future grant funding. The Douglas Open Space and recreation Plan Committee is working with staff support from the Central Massachusetts regional Planning Commission.

For more information contact: Dani Marini, CMrPC dmarini@cmrpc.org.

COVID Moderna Booster Clinic at Senior Center The uxbridge Senior Center is proud to announce that they will be collaborating with the uxbridge Board of Health and the Salmon VNA to sponsor a COVID Moderna Booster Vaccination Clinic at the Center, located at 36 South Main Street, uxbridge. This event will take place on Monday, May 16th from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Participants must pre-register on-line at: https://home.color.com/ Or contact the center at 508-278-8622 for assistance to register. No walk-ins will be accepted. Please have the dates of your vaccinations and your health insurance information available when registering.

CDC recommends everyone ages 12 years and older receive a COVID-19 vaccine booster after completing their

primary COVID-19 vaccination series.

Some people can receive two boosters.

1st booster: • Age 12 and older after they have had their primary vaccine series: • At least 5 months after completion of an mrNA (Pfizer or Moderna) vaccine primary series • At least 2 months after completion of a Janssen/J&J primary dose.

2nd booster: • Age 50 and older may get a 2nd booster at 4 months after their 1st booster • Age 12 and older with certain medical conditions may get a 2nd booster at least 4 months after their 1st booster Three COVID-19 vaccines are authorized or approved for use in the uS to prevent COVID-19. You can mix and match vaccines. Booster does not need to be the same vaccine brand as your original COVID-19 vaccination.

If you are ages 12-17, you can only get a Pfizer booster. Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna (COVID-19 mrNA vaccines) are preferred. The communities of uxbridge, Northbridge, Mendon, Douglas, upton, Milford, Bellingham, Blackstone, Hopedale, Millville, Sutton and Oxford are welcome.

MAY 2022

PAgE 5

Spring Vendor

Remembering the Haigis’ Fair hosted by A Celebration of Life to honor Bob and Peggy Haigis will be on Saturday June 4th from 2:00- 5:00 pm. Their family welcomes all friends and family that may want to attend. The event will take place at the Hopkinton Country Club located at 204 Saddle Hill rd. in Hopkinton, MA. In celebration of their zest for life and adventure, bright colors and floral patterns encouraged.

Please use GPS to assist with best updated route to venue.

Uxbridge PSG With Mother’s Day and Graduation season coming up, finding that unique gift for someone is still just as challenging as every other year. uxbridge PSG is here to help. On May 1st, uxbridge Parents for Safe Graduation (PSG) is hosting a Spring Vendor Fair at the uxbridge High School (300 Quaker Highway) from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. with over 45 local vendors that have those unique gifts you are looking for. You'll also find over 45 gift baskets up for raffle. The winners will be drawn at the end of the event. (NOTE: You do not need to be present for the drawing). The uxbridge Spartan Athletic Booster Club will have the concession stand open for snacks and drinks and the Blackstone Valley Community Concert Band will be holding their Spring Concert in the auditorium (check FB) Free event.

Northbridge to resume Memorial Day Parade tradition Northbridge will once again have a Memorial Day Parade. The Blackstone Valley Veterans Association will be the organizer of the parade. This parade will be at 9:30 a.m. on Monday May 30th. After three years it is time to publicly celebrate our fallen heroes.

If your organization wishes to be in the Memorial Day Parade, please contact Dan Lessard at derbydan476@

gmail.com or (508) 476-2836. This parade is open to everyone. Can't wait to see you there!

Town of Blackstone’s Memorial Day Celebration The Town of Blackstone’s Memorial Day Celebration held on Sunday, May 29th will kick off with the Memorial Day Parade, which this year will step off from the Town Common at 1:00 p.m. The Parade will proceed down Main St. on to St. Paul St. and conclude with a ceremony in front of Blackstone’s Municipal Center.

This year’s entertainment will be composed of three talented local groups: starting at 2:30 p.m. with the wonderful talents of the BMr Jazz Band, Blackstone’s own Lady Anemoia at 4:00 p.m.

and the Northeast Groove at 7:00 pm. A beautiful fireworks display will follow at 9:30 p.m.

If you are interested in being in the parade, a vendor in roosevelt Park, or volunteer the day of celebration please email the Committee at BlackstoneMemorialDay@gmail.com and they will send you an application.

Applications can also be found at the Municipal Center and on the Town of Blackstone’s website.

FMI follow on Facebook; Blackstone Memorial Day Celebration.

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PAgE 6

MAY 2022

OBiTUARY____

Robert A. Cormier, 67 robert A. Cormier, 67, formerly of uxbridge, passed away on Wednesday, February 23rd, 2022 after injuries sustained in an automobile accident. He is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Barbara A. (Ouelette) Cormier.

He is also survived by two children, Hope E. Cormier of uxbridge, and Joshua J. Cormier and his wife Carly of Waltham; his mother, Marcia (rawson) Cormier of DeFuniak Springs, FL; 3 grandchildren, Jacob Stratman, Flynn Cormier, and Owen Cormier; 3 sisters, Barbara Cormier of

FL, Laura Warmbrod of PA, and Maryjane Cormier of FL; his in-laws, Joan Ouelette, Steve Ouelette, and robert Ouelette; several nieces & nephews, and a special friend Carl of Douglas.

Born in Milford on June 2nd, 1954 he was son of the late Arthur Cormier and was raised in uxbridge. He was educated in uxbridge Public schools and graduated from uxbridge High School class of 1972. robert proudly served in the u.S Coast Guard during the Vietnam era and was stationed in Portland, ME.

rob was a self-employed handyman, who could fix almost anything. rob was an easy-going man who had an immense love for his family and especially his grandchildren. He enjoyed birdwatching, science fiction TV shows, tinkering, and snacking! He was also an avid reader, and liked to read everything from short stories to novels. rob was a kind man who often volunteered for different area soup kitchens and was a frequent volunteer to Walking In Light Inc. out of Douglas for the past 15 years. A man of great faith, he was a devout Christian and loved to read his bible.

As to robert’s wishes he will be cremated and there are no services. In lieu of flowers, donations in rob’s memory may be made to: Walking In Light Inc., PO Box 906, Douglas, MA 01516.

To leave a condolence message for his family please visit: http://www.Jackmanfuneralhomes.com.

Letter to the Editor_____________________

Please recognize the loss of 1.5 million Armenian Martyrs April 24th, 2022 marked the 107th commemoration of the Armenian Genocide. Our Armenian history is well documented, save for a select few who seem to think that having a revisionist’s view of history somehow changes it. On April 24th, 1915 most Armenian doctors, educators, writers, intellectuals, lawyers and community leaders were rounded up and viciously killed, or forced into death marches.

This massacre left over 1.5 million Armenian dead from the actions of Young Turk Government members.

Genocide across the world has had a profound effect, and there is no doubt that this was a horrific incident, encased in a horrid part of history.

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unspeakable crimes, committed by undeserving-to-mention individuals, and by a community and government who still to this day overwhelmingly denies this history.

We must recognize the happenings of 107 years ago. Wounds heal, but scars certainly remain. The healing process truly begins when all involved take responsibility for their role. We will never be able to change what happened, but we can all help with continuing to educate, so that history never repeats itself.

Armenian-Americans and human rights supporters must continue to teach individuals of this history. We must take time to reflect and remember all of our family and friends whose lives were taken away from them.

There is no mistake that we have a dark cloud hanging over our heritage due to horrific actions from others. However, we also have a ray of sunshine shining through, and that is our successes and survival.

Sincerely, David Muradian Proud Armenian-American, and State representative

MAY 2022

PAgE 7

St. Patrick's Spring Recycling Event

2022 1ST PLACE WiNNiNG PALETTES - (left to right) by artists Ashlyn Lambert, Adelie Pliakas, and Brandon Drake.

ValleyCAST 2022 Art Palette contest winners The Art Palette Contest, which invites participants to transform an ordinary wooden art palette into a unique work of art, has announced this year’s winners. Seventy-seven local artists of all ages and abilities participated in the contest and visitors to the gallery voted for their favorites. ValleyCAST also posted photos of the art palette entries online, so people who couldn’t make it to the gallery could cast their votes.

Cash prizes will be awarded to the first, second, and third place winners in three different age categories. In the Youth category, Adelie Pliakas, received first place for her palette Be Happy About Who You Are No Matter What, Emilia Fernandes, second place for her palette Happy as a Hedge Hog

in Spring, and Lucy Gibbons, third place for her palette Candy Land. Teen category winners included Ashlyn Lambert, first place for Queen, Ally Johnson, second place for The Burning Bear and Guenevere Payne, third place for Liminal Spaces. In the Adult category Brandon Drake took first place again this year for his palette Extinction, Sonja Catano second place

The St. Patrick's Spring recycling Event will take place on Saturday, May 7th from 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., 7 East Street, Whitinsville. The profits will benefit upcoming YIA (Youth in Action) service projects. Please keep items for each station separate. For more information & electronics pricing, call 508-2345656 or email officesupport@mystpatricks.com. Cash preferred. Thank you for your support!

On Site Paper Shredding - 9:00 a.m.11:00 a.m. only. $7/per copy paper size box. No x-rays; binders; binder clips; hanging folders; notebooks; plastic;

cardboard or magazines.

Electronics recycling for a fee - No batteries/light bulbs/propane tanks. All equipment must be bone dry of oils/liquids.

Bottles and Cans - Please rinse. Items must be returnable in MA. Textile Collection - Clothing; handbags/totes; accessories; linens; shoes; blankets; window treatments, etc. No rags/rugs, toys/books mattresses or housewares. Items must be gently used (no stains), and in a condition to be resold. If you cannot make it on May 7th, please call office to donate.

for The Dreams of Little Ones, and rebecca Hope third place for her palette All of Me. For more information about the contest visit openskycs.org/news-events or to see photos of the winning art palettes, please visit Facebook.com/ ValleyCAST. This event is sponsored

by ValleyCAST, Jerry’s Artarama and Open Sky Community Services.

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PAgE 8

MAY 2022

Free Program: “Wild Edible Plants”

Science

Metacomet Land Trust will offer a free outdoor exploration of wild edible plants at a conserved farm in uxbridge on Tuesday, May 17th at 5:30 p.m. The program will feature russ Cohen, who for many years has introduced local residents to the bounty of edible plants in the region. Southern Worcester

continued from page one

County is home to over 100 species of edible wild plants, many of which are more nutritious and/or flavorful than their cultivated counterparts. Advance registration is required. Interested residents may email info@metacometlandtrust.org or call (508) 271-7131 for more information.

Kelly’s Farm Stand “Your old fashioned farm stand experience since 1936” Rte. 140 • 146 Milford St., Upton, MA • 508-529-4564

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Cohen, the author of Wild Plants I Have Known…and Eaten, will take participants on a two-hour ramble through the gentle landscape of Foxfire Farm to learn about over a dozen species of edible wild plants. Keys to the identification of each species will be provided, along with info on edible portion(s), season(s) of availability and preparation methods, as well as guidelines for safe and environmentallyresponsible foraging. until his retirement in June of 2015, Cohen’s “day job” was serving as the rivers Advocate for the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game’s Division of Ecological restoration, where one of his areas of expertise was in riparian vegetation. Now russ has more time to pursue his passionate avocation, which is connecting to nature via his taste buds, and assisting others in doing the same. russ is now playing the role of “Johnny Appleseed” for edible native species. He has set up a small nursery in Weston where he grows over 1,000 plants that he propagates from seed and or obtains from other sources such as the Native Plant Trust. He partners with land trusts, cities and towns, schools and colleges, state and federal agencies, organic farms, tribal groups and others to plant plants from his nursery in appropriate places on their properties. russ has initiated over two dozen such projects in the past five years.

Russ Cohen sharing during one of his edible plant walks.

Sign up online: https://forms.gle/DB9 NYPqWw8AduB7Q7 Foxfire Farm is a privately owned small farm which has been permanently conserved by the owner’s generous donation of a conservation restriction.

The property includes several types of habitats, including meadows, wetlands and streams and woodland.

Metacomet Land Trust is a nonprofit land conservation organization which holds the easement on the farm.

Metacomet was founded in 1988 and currently protects nearly 1,000 acres in the Worcester and Norfolk Counties.

to find potential, plausible explanations.

It is imperative that they learn how to question, evaluate, and listen in groups.

This grant will allow us to create a science educational process that will foster collaboration and creative reasoning.”

“The One8 Foundation is excited and proud to support schools and districts in their adoption of OpenSciEd. OpenSciEd provides the resources for educators to engage students as scientists with hands-on, relevant, inquiry-based lessons,” said Joanna Jacobson, President of the One8 Foundation.” The world is rapidly changing and students need to be able to apply what they learn to the real world. OpenSciEd does just that.”

“Historically, many youths, such as students of color, those who speak first languages other than English and young women, have not identified with science or had meaningful opportunities in their science classrooms.” said Dr. Katherine McNeill, Co-Director of the OEI initiative at Boston College. “We are excited about this opportunity to disrupt those inequalities by supporting schools and teachers in instruction that begins with the interests and curiosities of students.”

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FMi Email: thenewuxbridgetimes@msn.com

MAY 2022

PAgE 9

What’s happening in Sutton The Sutton Historical Society Inc, a 501(c)3 organization, will be hosting the Sutton town-wide yard sale on Saturday, June 18th, 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. (rain date Sunday, June 19th). For a $10 fee, participating resident addresses will be included on a map and in any advertising for the event. Accepted payments will be cash, check or Paypal. registration forms can be downloaded from suttonhistoricalsocietyinc.org.

As in past years, limited table space can be rented for $10 at the M. M. Sherman Blacksmith Shop, 6 Singletary Avenue. In addition, the Society is accepting item donations, no upholstered furniture or electronic equipment, to be sold as a fund-raiser at their tables. Society members are willing to pick up donations from your location.

Contact: sutton1704@ gmail.com.

Mark your calendar! The Sutton Preservationists 4H Club is proudly hosting Coffee With Cows. This event will be held on Sunday May 15th, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on the Sutton Common. Meet the local cows, experience a cow show and watch donkey demonstrations. The General rufus Putnam Museum, 4 uxbridge road, will be open. There will also be socie-

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ty members available for tours of the town center cemetery, which has been undergoing a multi-year restoration program. The Green Bean Project will be performing in the gazebo.

The Sutton Lions Club will be preparing their famous breakfast sandwiches.

Come celebrate Spring in Sutton.

While you are out and about, you may notice new signs popping up at historical locations, including the M. M. Blacksmith Shop, Eight Lots road

School House, The General rufus Putnam Museum, the Manchaug Diorama located on the second floor of the Manchaug Mills, and the vestibule in the Town Hall. Through a grant from the Sutton Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency, the Society has placed self-guided Qr Codes to help visitors learn more about Sutton’s long and diversified history.

Scanning the codes with a smartphone, will direct the visitor to a “launch” page from which they can choose the site they are visiting to view photos and read history for the location. The selfguided tours can also be directly accessed through the Self-Guided Tour tab, located under “Other” at suttonhistoricalsocietyinc.org.

Membership is open year-round.

Membership forms are available on their website. Donations always accepted.

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Upton VFW begins Summer Series of Flea Markets The upton VFW will begin its summer series of flea markets on May 14th at Post headquarters, 15 Milford Street, (route 140) in upton. The events will continue on the second Saturday of each month through October, weather permitting.

Vendors and craftsmen may join in at $10 for each space or $15 if a banquet

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sized table is needed. reservations are not required, although post member David Kennedy can provide further information by contacting him via the VFW Facebook page or by calling 508529-3314.

Donuts and coffee will be available in the morning, then hot dogs and cold drinks for lunch.

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PAgE 10

MAY 2022

Blackstone River Watershed Assn. hosts film presentation Packachoag: Where the river Bends is a film documentary that explores the history and identity of Pakachoag, the largest of three Nipmuc Villages that make up present-day Worcester.

Pakachoag centers on the large hill in South Worcester that is now also the site of the College of the Holy Cross, Quinsigamond Village, and part of Auburn. The film explores the area before, during, and after colonial contact, including how the growth of Holy Cross has engaged with and erased that history. Produced by a team of profes-

sors and creatives at Holy Cross in collaboration with the Greater Worcester Land Trust, the film describes the connection of the Nipmuc people to the land of Packachoag Hill and to the Blackstone river that bends around it.

Viewers are led on a walking tour of important Nipmuc sites such as Pakachoag Spring, and “Kattatuck”, the original name of the Blackstone river.

Thomas Doughton (Nipmuc), Senior Lecturer at Holy Cross in its Center for Interdisciplinary Studies, and Colin Novick, environmental historian, and

Executive Director of the Greater Worcester Land Trust, lead the tour.

Cheryll Toney Holley, Leader of the Hassanamisco Band of Nipmuc, gives testimony to the Nipmuc presence in the Blackstone Valley today.

The 45-minute film will be shown at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 18th in Community rooms A and B of the Grafton Public Library and will be followed by an opportunity for questions and discussion with Colin Novick and Cheryll Toney Holley.

A brief business meeting will precede

the presentation at 6:30 p.m. for the election of officers, to welcome new members of the Board of Directors along with all members of the Blackstone river Watershed Association.

The BrWA is offering this Annual Meeting presentation with a virtual option. Please indicate if you will be attending virtually when you register. registration is required at http://thebrwa.org/annualmeeting2022 Questions? Please contact them at info@thebrwa.org or call 508-2785200.

Justice of the Peace Wanda M. Conner Summer Time Fun.... Join Our Horse Academy Boarding • Lessons • Shows • Horse Trials

Trivia Night at Saint Peter Parish Saint Peter Parish in Northbridge will be holding a Trivia Night, Friday, May 13th at the Knights of Columbus, 77 Prescott road in Whitinsville.

Tickets are $20 per person and should be purchased in advance. Get your tickets early, seating is limited. There will be a cash bar, food for purchase and raffles. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. and the Trivia Game starts at 7:00 p.m.

Teams must be four players and individuals wanting to play will be placed in teams of four. There will be a cash prize for the winning team. Come with your family & friends for a night of fun and to see who will be Saint Peter’s first Trivia Champions! To purchase your tickets please call the parish office 508-234-2156 or email: parishoffice@stpeterrockdale.org

144 Williams Street, Uxbridge, MA • www.azraelacres.com

Please call or text: 508-918-4531 ! # $%"# % "! $ #& $ "# )

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New England Country Music Club have released their dance schedule: Dances held from 1:00 p.m.- 5:00 p.m.

"Crossfire" band on Sunday, May 1st and "Mountaineer Family & Friends" band on Sunday, May 15th Dances take place at the Progressive Club, 18 Whitin St., North uxbridge FMI: http://www.facebook.com/NE CountryMusicClub.

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

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774-573-0943 • CALL TODAY! You Won’t Be Disappointed

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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.

NOT RESPONSiBLE FOR TYPOgRAPHiCAL ERRORS iN ADvERTiSEMENTS

MAY 2022

PAgE 11

Uxbridge Unitarian Church Shines with Hope and Promise For the first time in two years, due to the pandemic, almost two hundred women gathered at the 128th Massachusetts State Conference of the Daughters of the American revolution held recently at the EnVision Hotel in Mansfield. At a luncheon last month, the Arthur r. Taft Memorial Trust received the NSDAr Historic Preservation recognition Certificate and Medal.

Trustee David Moriarty received the honor in behalf of fellow Taft Trustees Karen Beane and Mark Wickstrom.

The award was sponsored by the Deborah Wheelock Chapter in uxbridge.

In approving the application, the Historic Preservation Committee said in part: “The town of uxbridge is fortunate to have such a wonderful organization to help preserve and maintain the history of one of the oldest towns in America. It is especially gratifying to know they maintain ‘a quiet profile’ while performing great work for the community.”

The Arthur r. Taft Memorial Trust was created in 1917 in memory of rosa Taft to act for “the enjoyment of people of uxbridge,” and for 105

years it has fulfilled that mission. With restoration of this historic focal point on the uxbridge Town Common, the (former) unitarian Church (1835) becomes a crown jewel in the anticipated economic redevelopment of downtown.

During the annual uxbridge First Night celebrations in December 2021, the restored (former) unitarian Church made its ‘debut’ complete with changing, colored lights in the belfry! Gleaming in a new coat of white paint, with gold leaf glittering on five steeples and its weathervane, the newly refurbished façade brought a “sense of wonder and pride to the residents” according to Mr. Mor-iarty at the time.

Today, the return of the four, hour - chiming clocks, so beloved by the community, is eagerly anticipated. When here, Mr. Moriarty says the clock numerals will undergo a gold-leafing process that will be open to the public. Stay tuned…

Not only did the Taft Trust restore the church’s exterior but the interior had a loving facelift, too.

The original pews, chandeliers, prayer books and

hymnals are in place, and the 1926 Hook-Hastings organ will play again in an acoustically-perfect environment. Stay tuned, too, for the Trust’s decision as to how best to create a self-sustaining use for the property.

Since 1890 the National Society Daughters of the American revolution has been devoted to

community service that supports programs and projects for education, patriotism and historic preservation. To “rise and Shine for America” join over one million women who serve God, Home, and Country. Contact deborahwheelock DAr @gmail.com.

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PAgE 12

MAY 2022

Local students honored with Superintendent’s Academic Excellence Award Superintendent-Director Dr. Michael F. Fitzpatrick is proud to announce that Carmen Gray of Northbridge and riley Holt of uxbridge are BVT's 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, Carmen Gray is the Class of 2022 Valedictorian and a member of

DECA (Distributive Clubs of America).

Her dedication to academic and vocational studies was displayed when she earned a bronze medal in 2021 at the SkillsuSA District competition in Mechatronics and recognition as an International finalist at the DECA 2021 Entrepreneurship Team Decision Making Event. Gray has obtained college credits in Engineering through PLTW and the rochester Institute of Technology. She recently worked with a Worcester Polytechnic Institute Ph.D. student on a Computer Vision project specializing in sensor modalities and presented diversity, equity, and inclu-

Carmen Gray

Riley Holt

sion research to WPI staff and scholars.

As a volunteer at Children Across America, she is committed to empowering children through education, serving as a mentor who leads educational STEM lessons for grade K-5 students.

Gray would like to travel and study abroad, crafting a unique path by seeking co-op employment opportunities that further her education and experience in environmental engineering or a related field while attending Northeastern university Honors Program for

Environmental Engineering.

Currently, riley Holt is the Class of 2022 Salutatorian and a National Honor Society and National Technical Honor Society member. His academic and vocational skills were on display when he earned a gold medal in 2021 at the SkillsuSA State competition in Mechatronics. recognitions include National Merit Scholarship Program Commended Student, a Perfect Score on his Digital Electronics and Principles of Engineering exam, and an

Outstanding Student of the Year Award (AP Lang, AP Chem, PreCalc, & Engineering). Other achievements include Destination Imagination Global Finalist and DECA State Finalist.

Holt wants to further his education and launch his engineering career by pursuing a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering at Georgia Tech to strengthen his workforce entry opportunities. He wants to work on spacecraft and satellites, focusing on avionics and propulsion.

Superintendent-Director Dr. Michael F. Fitzpatrick was joined by Assistant Superintendent-Director/Principal Anthony Steele and the BVT School Committee in congratulating Gray and Holt on their awards, thanking them for their many contributions.

"Carmen Gray and riley Holt demonstrate extraordinary commitment to career technical training and rigorous academics. They exemplify the modern career-technical student, and serve not only as a model for what is possible in career-technical education, but also as an inspiration for their classmates and teachers. It is a pleasure to work with them and an honor to have them represent our school,” said Steele. “It will be equally exciting to see how they apply what they have learned at BVT in their future endeavors."

MAY 2022

PAgE 13

Letter to the Editor_____________________

Preparing our youth to lead Dear Editor, On a night during a bitter stretch of winter a few years back, I was driving through Whitinsville. I halted at a stretch where a lot of cars were pulled off to the side. It was clear something serious had happened but the police had not yet arrived.

I had been an EMT. As I pulled over, I saw that woman walking along the road had q been hit by a car and was lying on the pavement. Following my training, I assessed and took management of her head as we waited for help.

One of the greatest dangers to her was from shock, particularly in the bitter weather. I noticed that, without any word from me, each person who arrived took off their coat and laid it over the woman. She was under a pile of warm jackets by the time the first responders arrived at the scene. I moved myself to the background, as the professionals took over.

This night stayed in my memory for many years. It was an amazing example of the heart and quality of the people of the Blackstone Valley. It made me very proud to make my home here among good people who are willing to care for their neighbors, even if they don't know the person at all and the weather is very cold.

For nearly five years, I have worked

with others to share our history of the underground railroad. It is another marker of the deep character and compassion that many of the folks in this region have always shown toward people of all stations of life and from all backgrounds.

It was disappointing to hear that our Middle School has recently experienced incidents that do not live up to our history and values. In response, the schools sent a letter to families asking them to take some time to discuss with their children how to respond if they witness bullying, harassment, or inappropriate comments of any kind targeting themselves or their classmates. We all know that social media brings challenges and new opportunities to talk with kids about how we treat each other every day.

One parent told me about a conversation she had with her daughter. They worked together to help her daughter fully understand how words and comments can truly be devastating to others. They talked together about ways to be prepared to respond if she witnesses such behavior at school.

I am glad to see our parents stepping up and having these discussions with our children. The character of our community depends on the next generation becoming as compassionate as many of

our prior ones have shown they could be.

Parents looking for ideas about how to talk with kids can check out Bright Horizon's resources for families at: https://www.brighthorizons.com/family-resources/encouraging-children-tovalue-diversity The Girl Scouts have also put together an outstanding guide to valuing everyone in our community at https:// w w w. g i r l s c o u t s . o rg / e n / r a i s i n g girls/happy-and-healthy/happy/whytolerance-isn-t-working.html William Seward, a founder of the republican Party (and who became Abraham Lincoln's Secretary of State)

often wrote and edited Lincoln's speeches. Seward also hosted a station on the underground railroad with his wife Frances.

It is very likely that many of the same men, women, and children who passed through the Blackstone Valley on the underground railroad, would find nourishment for body and soul at the Seward's New York home before crossing into Canada.

Seward drafted the powerful words that came down in history through Lincoln's lips that, "We are not enemies, but friends. We must not be enemies. Though passion may have strained it must not break our bonds of

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affection. The mystic chords of memory, stretching from every battlefield and patriot grave to every living heart and hearthstone all over this broad land, will yet swell the chorus of the union, when again touched, as surely they will be, by the better angels of our nature."

I applaud our schools for stepping forward to help our kids be prepared to lead. I hope we adults can follow in their footsteps.

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PAgE 14

MAY 2022

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MAY 2022

PAgE 15

~Society ~ Library to host visit from Mistress-of-Disguise

Art Heals: Shine Your Light Chalk Festival Student artists at Blackstone Valley regional Vocational Technical High School (BVT) will get creative for a cause by sharing their personal stories through their artwork to help raise awareness of mental health and support teen suicide prevention.

As an artist, you intuitively know that creating a visual image through any medium can produce physical and emotional benefits for you, the creator, and those who view it. The Art Heals: Shine Your Light Chalk Festival on Thursday, May 12th, is all about the healing power of art. The school campus at 65 Pleasant Street in upton will come alive with color, creativity, and meaning as student artists create unique sidewalk chalk murals that reflect their mental health stories on the theme of light and how "art heals." In collaboration with the School Based Health Center, they’ll showcase art as a positive way of expressing emotions, diminishing negative feelings and thoughts.

An Evening Chalk Walk Later that evening, the community is welcomed to attend an evening chalk walk from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. to view the completed masterpieces. The event is free and open to the public. It's an opportunity to connect with others in a shared appreciation and awareness of

American Road Trip Concert The “American road Trip” concert will take place at the Milford Town Hall’s Grand Ballroom at 1:30 p.m.

Doors will open for seating and ticket purchase at 12:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased prior to the concert at Music & Arts for $10, or $12 each at the door.

The GMCC is a not-for-profit organization run under the umbrella of the Milford Community School use Program. GMCC is fortunate to have received a generous grant of support from the Milford Cultural Council, for which they are very grateful. refreshments will be served during intermission, and there will be many creative raffle baskets on hand to entice everyone attending to support GMCC! For more information about the GMCC, please visit www.greatermilfordcommunitychorus.org

The only woman known to have disguised herself as a man and serve in the Continental Army without getting caught will tell her story at the uxbridge Public Library. Massachusetts heroine Deborah Sampson will describe her association with uxbridge as well as the victories, frustrations and close calls she experienced as a poor Colonial farm girl who risked humiliation and imprisonment to serve her country as a soldier.

Audiences ages 7-adult will become privy to Deborah’s deception strategies, victories, and mistakes; Colonial constraints imposed upon women and girls; a cave and its hidden stash; and Deborah’s other “Firsts.” Young audience members will be invited to come up “on stage” and demonstrate period games and tongue twisters. Library visitors will learn the story about behind this principled deception and the character of the quiet rebel who pulled it off.

Farm Girl on the Front Lines will take place on Saturday, May 7th at the uxbridge Public Library 15 N. Main St., uxbridge, MA from 10:00 a.m.11:00 a.m. The performance best suits audiences ages 7-adult.

how art can be used as a strategic tool in the treatment of mental health.

This event is possible in partnership with BVT’s Visual Arts Department, School Based Health Center, and supported by grants from Grafton, Mendon, Milford, and Millville Cultural Councils (Mass Cultural Council’s Local Cultural Councils Program).

Please visit the school website www.valleytech.k12.ma.us/artheals 2022 as all events are subject to change.

U-KNIGHTED

AUTO & TRUCK REPAIR

Farm Girl on the Front Lines will take place outside, weather permitting.

Please bring enough lawn chairs for your party. registration is encouraged. register: https://tinyurl.com/uxbDeb. Janet Parnes, owner of Historical Portrayals by Lady J, Millis, will portray Deborah. Ms. Parnes reveals the drama, intrigue and paradoxes inherent in American history through portrayals of its women. www.women-history. com.

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

Janet Parnes dressed as∆ Continental Army Soldier, Deborah Sampson.

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Celebrating 10 Years in Downtown Whitinsville

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NEW SERVICES

Massage

Facials

Purchase GIFT CERTIFICATES on our website: Custom Blend Facial w/ whitinsvillespa.com or come in to purchase.

Nails

Gua Sha & Cupping 12 71 Providence Rd. 90 Minute Massage w/ To: Mom Gua Sha & Cupping Whitinsvil le, MA Brazilian w/Intensive (508) 234-3982 Care Jelly Mask Located on 2nd floor of Milford Federal Bank “The place to come....to let go.”

PAgE 16

MAY 2022

ValleyCAST posts calendar of events THEATRE iS BACk! Be Here Now by Deborah Zoe Laufer Directed by Matthew J. Carr, will be performed by Pilgrim Soul Productions Performance Dates/Times: May 6th, 7th, 13th, and 14th at 7:30 p.m. May 15th at 2:00 p.m. Location: Alternatives' Whitin Mill, 60 Douglas road, Whitinsville, MA 01588.

Two lost souls come together under most unusual circumstances in this deeply insightful and charmingly funny play. Surrounded by painfully cheerful co-workers, Bari is deeply cynical and

woefully depressed, working at a small-town fulfillment center. When she meets Mike, a man who makes art out of garbage, Bari finds herself on an enlightening new path and experiences joy for the first time in her life. Be Here Now asks what we are willing to do to find love, happiness, and meaning in our lives.

Be Here Now is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. Tickets: $25.00 regular admission; $22.00 under 18/over 64; $20.00 groups of 10 or more. reservations: Phone 508-2960797 or Email to: pilgrimsoulproductions@gmail.com. https://www.openskycs.org/news-events/events/theatreis-back-pilgrim-soul-productions-performs-be-here-now/

WHiTiNSviLLE CHRiSTiAN STUDENT ART ExHiBiT Opening reception, Friday, May 6th, 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. Location: Alternatives' Whitin Mill, 60 Douglas road, Whitinsville.

Whitinsville Christian School students in grades 6, 7, & 8 exhibit a variety of 2-D and 3-D artwork that they have created throughout the year. This exhibit is in conjunction with the school’s annual student Art Walk.

Come support these inspiring young students! regular gallery hours for this exhibit will be held Mondays through Fridays from 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. Please call or email the

receptionist to schedule your visit: 508234-6232 | Dorcas.Carlson@openskycs.org. Exhibit ends May 27th. https://www.openskycs.org/newsevents/events/valleycast-hosts-thewhitinsville-christian-school-studentart-exhibit/

ARTS SHOWCASE & CHORUS EvENT ValleyCAST hosts Blackstone Valley regional Vocational Technical High School's Annual Arts Showcase & Chorus Event. Location: Alternatives' Whitin Mill, 50 Douglas road, Whitinsville. Date: Opening reception June 3rd, from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m., with work on display from June 3rd to 24th BVT is pleased to present their annual Arts Showcase. Students enrolled in

courses like painting and drawing, sculpture, photography, and digital illustration will have their work on display from June 3rd to June 24th. Both 2D and 3D work will be on display and they hope you will join them for a celebration of their art students' accomplishments!

Join for an Opening reception on Friday, June 3rd, 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m., with a concert featuring the BVT Chorus!

Suggested donation of $5 for the performance goes to ValleyCAST for their future programming. FMI visit https:// www.openskycs.org/news-events/ events/valleycast-hosts-blackstone-valley-regional-vocational-technical-highschools-annual-arts-showcase-chorusevent/.

Gifted Essence Sewing offers personalized solutions My name is renee Mossman and I am a resident of Whitinsville for the last 20 years. Gifted Essence Sewing is created through a love of sewing and a passion

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for quality. “God has blessed me with the talent to sew and I love to share this blessing”.

I've witnessed through the years a lack of quality and limited options where the one-size fits all approach causes many to suffer due to size and fit. With 35 years experience in all facets of sewing, we can transform your look and improve your confidence all in the convenience of your own home.

Our approach is personalized. We will arrange a meeting to come to your home on your schedule to help you with your transformation. It is our goal to provide a unique solution for your wardrobe & home accessories. We can

tailor your current clothing for an improved fit or style so you can use your time on your passion.

Our passion is not limited to the personal wardrobe but also offers a unique experience of customizing your home, from cushions, pillows & duvet covers to curtains and drapes. We don't want to leave out your whimsical side and that can be addressed with our handmade backpacks, totes, bible cases and (leather) handbags.

Gifted Essence Sewing is a company with solutions, ranging from hems to tailoring in the comfort of your own home. We look forward to being of service to you. GiftedEssenceSewing@ pm.me or 508-266-0932.

MAY 2022

PAgE 17

senior corner Fitness classes offers better balance for seniors The uxbridge Senior Center is proud to sponsor two live 8-week Classes; Chair Yoga and Zumba. Chair Yoga has been shown to improve overall health when practiced regularly. Chair yoga is a gentle form of yoga that can be done while sitting. Some poses can also be done standing using a chair for support. Chair yoga can improve your flexibility, concentration and strength, while boosting your mood, and reduc-

ing stress and joint strain. Other benefits include improved balance to help prevent falls, increased energy, and improved relaxation. The class will focus on stretching, breathing, and allowing the mind to be still.

The program is scheduled to begin Thursday, May 5th from 2:45 p.m.-3:45 p.m. at the senior center’s satellite site which is the McCloskey School located at 62 Capron Street in uxbridge.

Douglas Adult Social Center News

WHERE’S THE BEST CHEF iN TOWN? AdviniaCare at Northbridge is proud to announce Brian Snay is their new Director Of Kitchen. Pictured above: Executive Director David Jasinski with Chef Brian Snay (right). For 19 years, Snay ran "Brian's Restaurant " in Northbridge. Prior to that, Brian was a Chef at the one and only "Cocke'n Kettle" from 1976-1996!

Brian also ran "Hometown Catering " at The Whitinsville golf course from 20082019. Check out their Facebook page "AdviniaCare At Northbridge" to view daily postings of the Life Enrichment Program! There is something new daily.

The following events are offered by the Douglas Adult Social Center. The ccenter is located at 331 Main Street, Douglas MA 508476-2283 MAY EVENTS: • Card Making & Free Mother’s Day Luncheon May 4th at 12:00 p.m. rsvp by 4/27 • Free breakfast at the high school May 11th at 9:00 a.m. rsvp by 5/3 • Fire Safety w/ Joe &Tea Time w/Jen May 12th at 10:00 a.m. rsvp by 5/9 • Lunch & Movie $3.00 “YES DAY” May 18th at 12:00 p.m. rsvp by 5/13 • Fire & Ice Adventures Sunshine Club Luncheon May 25th at 12:00 p.m. rSVP by 5/20 • Make your own herb garden May 31st at 11:00 a.m. $10.00 P/P rsvp by 5/19 JuNE EVENTS: • rECAP SOLuTIONS Lunch will be served

$3.00 June 1st at 12:00 p.m. rsvp by 5/25 • rE-EQuIPMENT Pasta lunch $3.00 June 8th at 12:00 p.m. rsvp by 6/ 2 • Hearing Aid Cleaning w/ Darcy June 9th at 10:30 a.m. Call to schedule!

• Christopher Heights Presentation Free lunch will be served by Christopher Heights June 9th at 11:30 a.m. rsvp by 6/1 • Free Police BBQ June 20th at 12:00 p.m. rsvp by 6/10 the entertainer for this event will be Stephen George sponsored by the Douglas Cultural Council.

• Lunch & Movie $3.00 “POMS” June 22nd at 12:00 p.m. rsvp by 6/15 • Pine Cone Picture Make & Take Craft June 28th at 11:00 a.m.$15. P/P rsvp by 6/21 • Free Ice Cream & Pictionary June 29th at 12:30 p.m. rsvp by 6/22

The instructor will be Dr. David Tapscott, certified yoga instructor. Dr. Tapscott has been an instructor since 2014 and has a deep passion for yoga. The suggested donation cost for this 8week class is $25.00 and is open to all in the community including those outside the Town of uxbridge. Checks should be made payable to the uxbridge Senior Center. Bring your own yoga mats and blocks, if you have them.

Zumba is a fitness program that fuses entertainment and culture into an exhilarating dance party workout. This is an 8-week specialized program designed for seniors.

The program will begin Thursday, May 5th from 1:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m. at the senior center satellite site which is located at the McCloskey School at 62 Capron Street. The class will run for one hour, one day a week for an 8-week period of time. The instructor, Amy Smith, is a licensed Gold Zumba instructor. The suggested donation cost of this 8-week class is $25.00.

Checks may be payable to the uxbridge Senior Center.

Individuals interested in either class should call the uxbridge Senior Center at 508-2788622 for more information and receive their application and waiver forms prior to the start of the program. The center is located at 36 South Main Street in uxbridge and is open Monday thru Fridays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

PAgE 18

Uxbridge Senior News The uxbridge Senior Center would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the uxbridge Elderly Connection, rep. Mike Soter, Senator ryan Fattman, rep. Joe McKenna and all our sponsors and volunteers! The rISE-uP Initiative was held on Sunday, April 10th and we delivered over 300 ham lunches in uxbridge. A BIG thank you to everyone who participated!

Thursday, May 5th – 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Veterans’ Services with Carl Bradshaw by appointment only. Call 508-278-8622 to sign up.

Thursdays, May 5th & 19th – 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. “Popup Library. Books will be on display to check out, library card sign-ups, book hold pickups, etc. This program being offered by the uxbridge Free Public Library.

New 8-week session of ZuMBA Classes starting

MAY 2022

Thursdays May 5th – July 7th. Amy Smith will be your instructor.

New 8-week session of Chair Yoga Classes starting Thursday, May 5th – July 7th. Dr. David Tapscott will be your instructor. Classes are held at the McCloskey School, 62 Capron Street. The suggested donation is $25.00 for the 8 weeks. Checks may be payable to the uxbridge Senior Center.

Applications and waiver forms are required prior to the start of these programs. * No Classes on Thursday, May 19th & May 26th* Friday, May 6th – 12:00 p.m. Lunch & Learn with Chief Montminy ~ His guest speaker will be Kevin Donohue – Worcester County District Attorney’s Office ~ Bullying Dynamic. Please call ahead to reserve your lunch.

Monday, May 9th – 1:30 p.m. Shopping trip to Hobby Lobby with Sally! Sign up early as seating is limited.

Tuesday, May 10th – 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Benefit Enrollment Specialist – Tri-Valley, Inc. Call the senior center to book an appointment with Cole Ackerson. Next date will be June 14th.

Tuesday, May 10th – 1:00 p.m. uxbridge Library Book Club. They will be reading Magpie Murders by Anthony Horowitz. You are welcome to join them for lunch on this day. Please remember to rSVP. Tuesday, May 10th – 7:00 p.m. Spring Annual Town Meeting held at Valley Chapel, 14 Hunter road in uxbridge.

Wednesday, May 11th – 5:00 p.m. Annual uxbridge Elderly Connection Inc. meeting at the senior center.

Friday, May 13th – 12:00 p.m. Annual Mother’s Day Celebration sponsored by the uxbridge Elderly Connection Inc. Mr. Magic Larry Parker will be back to entertain! Please call ahead to sign up.

Monday, May 16th – 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

COVID Moderna Booster Vaccination Clinic at the senior center. This event is sponsored by the uxbridge Board of Health and the Salmon VNA. Please call the senior center to book your appointment or go to this link to sign-up: https:// home.color.com/vaccine/register/southernworcester. NOTE: There will not be lunch at the senior center this day.

There will be NO LuNCH on Monday, May 16th Booster Clinic, Wednesday, May 18th or Monday, May 23rd ~ Staff Training.

Thursday, May 19th – 1:30 p.m. Making Welcome Wreaths with Sally! Cost is $7.00 per person. Early sign up is required.

Friday, May 20th – 9:00 a.m.

Our Bird Watching Program with Strickland Wheelock is Back! This takes place at the riverbend Farm located at 287 Oak Street. Strickland will meet you there to explore beautiful creatures. Do not

forget to wear your walking shoes! Please call the senior center to sign up by May 18th.

Monday, May 23rd - 1:30 p.m. “Ask the Attorney” with Attorney ralph Tepper by appointment only. Please call to schedule your appointment at the uxbridge Senior Center.

Tuesday, May 24th – 9:00 a.m.

SHINE Appointments available for health insurance questions with Pat Nectow. Please call to schedule.

Tuesday, May 24th – 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. – Ask the Nurse Free Blood Pressure Clinic with Celeste Kopech, Salmon Health VNA. rSVP to participate and to join for lunch.

Wednesday, May 25th – 11:00 a.m. Lunch Outing at Three Seasons restaurant at BVT. Space is limited on the van, but you are more than welcome to meet them at BVT. Meal choices: Classic Cheeseburger, Fish & Chips or Chicken Cacciatore. Cost is $15.00 per person which includes meal, Ice cream Sundae dessert, drink (coffee, soda, etc.) and tip. rSVP by May 18th.

Monday, May 30th – The senior center will be closed in observance of Memorial Day. No lunch will be served and no medical transportation will be available.

Card Game will be played during Monday Congregate lunches and BINGO will be on Wednesdays.

Computer Class Tutoring every Monday ~ 3:00 p.m. *By appointment only. Students from BVT will be available to help you with your computers and/or devices. *Please call ahead to book an appointment.

Hannaford grocery shopping every Tuesday.

Pick up begins at 8:30 a.m. Please sign up in advance by calling to reserve your seat on the van.

Masks are required and seating is limited.

Knitting Club every Tuesday at 1:30 p.m. Come join the fun! continued on nesxt page

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PAgE 19

Thimble Pleasures announces Raffle and Ribbon winners

Let me entertain you...

Howie Newman (pictured above) performed classic songs of yesteryear, including Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Elvis, the Beatles, the Drifters, Neil Diamond and a bunch of additional popular tunes from the ’60s for Plummer Place fans this week! It was a fun sing-along, toe-tapping musical journey with some trivia, background stories, and a little G-rated humor mixed in for all to enjoy. Kendra Dubiel, one of the concert goers shared, "we have heard Howie perform here before and we truly enjoy all of the songs and music he plays!"

Mr. Newman’s performance was supported by a grant from the Northbridge Cultural Council, a local agency supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency. FMI on Plummer Place events call (508) 234-2002.

are listed in order of first, second, third and honorable mention.) In the Garment and Accessories category winners were Annie Bosma, Amy Stephens, Jean Hampel and Grace Aliose. The Holiday Quilts category winners Denise Gosselin, Marcia Nichols, Grace Aliose and Terri Vadenais. Winners in the Small Wall Hangings category were Donna Hopkins, rita Partridge, rhonda Edmison and Amy Stephens; in the Medium Wall Hanging category winners were rita Partridge, Terri Vadenais, rhonda Edmison and Susan McCarthy; and in the Large Wall Hanging category ribbons were awarded to Kathy Sperino, Denise Gosselin (two ribbons) and Marcia Nichols.

The Thimble Pleasures Quilt Guild recently held their 2022 biennial quilt show. The guild welcomed over 1000 enthusiastic visitors during the two-day show. Visitors were awed by the display of over 200 member-designed and made quilts, the presence of a variety of vendors, a well-stocked Quilter’s Boutique and the opportunity to win one of many raffle baskets and to win a beautiful raffle quilt. Visitors were also able to vote for their favorite quilts.

Viewer’s Choice ribbons as chosen by the visitors were awarded to Shirley Bangma, Joyce Gilmore, Denise Gosselin, Marcia Nichols and Kathryn Sperino.

Guild members also selected ribbon winners in several categories. ( Winners

show’s special project, Guiding Eyes for the Blind. Through the extraordinary efforts of Project Chair Amy Stephens, enough funds were raised to name two guild dogs. Names chosen for these guide dogs are Stitch and ripley.

Thimble Pleasures would like to thank all the visitors who made this show a success and all the guild member volunteers who made this show possible.

In the Small and Medium Bed Quilt category award winners were Gina Brooks, Marcia Nichols, Coral Barry, rita Partridge and Debbie Wendt; Large Bed Quilt category winners were Shirley Bangma, Susan Pelland (two ribbons) Sherri Noel and Annie Bosma.

The Mystery Quilt category ribbon winner were Kathy Sperino, Christine Moyer, Barbara Delphos, Jane Hilliard and Pattie Trachimowicz. The President’s ribbon was awarded to Amy Stephens for her quilt Beach Walk. Quilt Show Chairs ribbons were awarded to Gina Brooks and to Kathleen McKenna for two quilt entries.

One of the highlights of the show was the participation of the public in this

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SENiOR NEWS continued from page 18 *1st and 4TH Wednesday – May 4th & 25TH at 10:00 a.m. Bank & Pharmacy rides. Please call at least 24 hours in advance. Masks must be worn as well. *Date change for May only* Every Wednesday Starting May 4th at 10:00 a.m.

Sally’s Walking Club.

Contact the senior center for waiver forms before starting and this is weather permitting. Meeting spot is the Blackstone Valley Greenway located on Adams Street in S. uxbridge. This is incorporated with The Walk Mass Challenge! *NO Walking Club on May 18th & 25th.

2nd and 4th Thursdays – May 12th & 26th – Shaws/Ocean State Shopping rides. Please call at least 24 hours in advance. Masks must be worn and limited to 4 people on the van.

Medical Transportation is accepting appointments. Call to schedule your rides.

The senior center is in need of the following donations: Newly packaged napkins, paper towels, 8 oz. Styrofoam cups, 8 oz plastic cups, ground regular coffee, coffee filters, tea bags, sugar packets (regular, sweet n’ low, & other brands), tissues & toilet paper.

The center is located at 36 South Main St in uxbridge. Contact: 508278-8622 or online:https://www.Face book.com/uxbridgeMASenior Center · https://www.youtube.com/channel or www.uxbridgetv.org/schedule/192.

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PAgE 20

MAY 2022

Douglas High School announces Honor Roll GrADE 9 HIGHEST HONOrS Fani Angelidaki Julia Argall David Berchem Shaan Chaudhary Olivia DeFalco Lillian George Vixx Greenough Ava Haire Travis King rebecca Leary Charlotte Loy Erin Picanso Jessica rose Joshua roulier Zachary Sargent Stone Slowik Joranni Souphida Tayla Sullivan Katelyn Taylor Jacob Wasson HIGH HONOrS Aiden Connell Logan Englund ryleigh Kenney Leilanee Martinez Paulino Elyse McCarthy Kyla Nadeau Brady Olson Brooke Payne Kylie Squier Antoinett Stewart-Gringras HONOrS

Tyler Beck Adrian Harper GrADE 10 HIGHEST HONOrS Ashley Arnold Amanda Audette Cameron Beckwith Darius Buivydas Linas Buivydas Isabella Calkins Olivia DeLuca Matthew Doyle Kaytlin Forget Taylin Fragala Noah Gaskill Hadley Gavan William George Isaac Gosselin Owen Gray Gavin Gualtieri Emilee Hamelin Emma Hennessy Andrew Hogan William Hogan Jaxon Kaczor Samantha Loy Taylor Lundquist Louis Makela Zechariah March Chloe McDonald Julia Oskirko Erika Our Haileigh recore Gabrielle rivard

Dominic rossi Colin Squier Molly Stinchfield Emily Torres Flores Ethan Vassar Alexander Wheeler Cecelia White HIGH HONOrS Charis Bell Christopher Dame Travis Duplessis Oxbow Grier Tristan Meech Marcus O’Brien Natalie reade Shanti rivera Jace rose Trevor Thomas Evan Wheeler HONOrS rylee Bennett Adam Dunphy Logan Hooper Gavin Morin GrADE 11 HIGHEST HONOrS Chloe-Jo Bassim Griffin Berard Ciara Brule Mackenzie Catlin Ella Collins Essined Colon renee Dansereau Felipe DeOliveira

Sena Shaylyn Emanuel Jenna Fontaine Elise Forget Ne’Kayla Gilbert Nicole Guthenberg Therese Hennedy Emma Hutnak Luke Lightbown Salome Lopez Caicedo Antonio MacGregor Mia Mahan Veronica Martinez Paulino Steven Michalski rylee Mitchell Madison Mooney Celina Moore Michael O’Toole Izabella Oum Hannah Purvis Caroline ramsdell Ariana Sacco Connor Stickney Brianna Taylor Matthew Trychon Kate Wall Lily Zygmuntowicz HIGH HONOrS Brady Lunn Joshua McKeon HONOrS Lauren Espanet Bryleigh Murphy GrADE 12 HIGHEST HONOrS

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Coach Thomas Wickstrom (far left) with 5/6th grade girls team & assistant coaches.

OLV Basketball Teams update recently, the Our Lady of the Valley School's basketball teams competed in the New England Qualifying Tournament to win a chance of going to the finals held in Burlington, VT. The boys 7/8th grade and the girls 5/6th teams both competed at the tournament to win the opportunity to represent the Worcester Diocese in Vermont.

Both teams fought hard and even though it was a loss for the boys, they cheered on their classmates as they beat the undefeated St. Leo's girls' team. "The girls showed a lot of heart beating undefeated St. Leo's of Leo-

minster by one point in the Championship game. It was a great team effort and the girls are very excited to represent the Worcester Diocese in the New England Catholic Schools Championship in Burlington, Vermont." said Thomas Wickstrom, coach of the 5/6th grade girls' team. Ed reynold, principal of OLV, also commented that "All of our teams proved themselves to be well coached, well prepared, hardworking, and skilled."

The weekend of March 18th-19th, all OLV teams competed in the St. Mary's tournament. The 7/8th grade boys OLV-2 team took second place in the league, after a tough loss in the championship game. The 7/8th grade boys OLV-1 team made round 1 of the playoffs, having to face off against their schoolmates, OLV-2 7/8th grade girls had a great regular season record, and made round one of the playoffs. The 5/6th grade boys also made the first round of the playoffs, fighting hard to force overtime, with a challenging loss by only 4 points. The 5/6th grade girls were undefeated entering the playoffs, and suffered a tough loss in the first round.

Our Lady of the Valley 5/6th grade girls' team headed to Burlington the weekend of April 2nd-3rd. OLV had a bye in the first round, they lost in the semifinal round, they were up the 1st half of the game - played against St Catherine’s from Norwood but lost in the second half. Julie Kay played great defense and Ishani Patel put up points.

Emily Johnson hit a foul shot.

Mr. reynold's added "Above all, we are extremely proud of how our fans and students supported one another throughout this tournament. Win or lose, our teams and their classmates arrived early or stayed in the gym to watch one another play, and they supported one another enthusiastically and appropriately. Of all the schools that competed, OLV had, by far, the most energetic, vocal and positive fan base; thank you to our students, staff and families for this!"

Overall it was a fantastic season for all and a special one as well. These teams had the honor of being the first group of OLV basketball teams to practice and play in the new G.r.A.C.E. Center which opened this year.

MAY 2022

school News

Northbridge M.S. Teachers receive award At this years’ Blackstone Valley Education Foundation Business and Education forum, participants from area industries and school districts meet to discuss relevant topics to schools and business, such as necessary job skills, educating for the future, and how to develop an employable workforce through the support of the foundation.

BVEF honors community members and teachers who are making a difference in the valley. This year, a pair of teachers from Northbridge Middle School were honored. Toted as a “Dynamic duo” by the Executive Director of the foundation, Mrs. Erika Baum, Mrs. Lisa Gogolinski and Mrs., Betsy Wermuth were honored for their commitment to exposing students to different STEM careers with a Massachusetts State Senate Official Citation declaring their “outstanding enthusiasm and involvement with the foundation.”

Mrs. Gogolinski teaches Computer Science and Mrs. Wermuth teaches STEM to 500+ 11-14 year old's, developing a curriculum that not only challenges their students through teamwork and iteration, but also reflects the different careers needed to complete a task. “I think what we have created is unique at the middle school level,” says Mrs. Gogolinski. “Students of today have to learn about what they have to offer to careers of tomorrow.”

In their classes, Mrs. Gogolinski and Mrs. Wermuth use their curriculums to guide students into understanding how a product is developed, from a concept, through prototyping, testing, and team feedback. The realization that students may work in careers that don’t even exist today creates a “What if?” discussion that fosters innovation and creativity in their understanding of skills.

“Our little town is a perfect example of small business taking a global scale.

Whitinsville industry started as a blacksmith shop, developed into a textile mill, foundry, and war time supplier, and now is a haven for innovation,” says Mrs. Wermuth, “What better place to teach about the importance of a team effort for success?”

Mrs. Gogolinski agrees, “Students learn through experiences that bring the real world into their vision of themselves. We are encouraging that development, especially with the makerspace and the tools students have access to.”

Over the past several years, the two have received grants from BVEF and other organizations, as well as donations from the community and curriculum supplies to create a workspace with vinyl cutters, a 3-D printer, video equipment, and general maker supplies to create a makerspace they dubbed Whitin Works in an unused room at Northbridge Middle School.

PAgE 21

Douglas students enjoying School to School Connection

3-D FUN - Uxbridge Public Schools STEAM team is breaking technology barriers with their youngest learners in three 3-D Printing Workshops this spring! it was an amazing example of three Uxbridge School Public Teachers: Ms. Amanda Gallerani from Taft Early Learning Center. Miss Samantha Wise from Whitin intermediate School and Mr. Michael Smutock from Uxbridge High School created amazing vertical alignment opportunities across Uxbridge District for the third-grade students! The 3-D Spring Workshops gave the opportunity to 70 third grade students to explore a career development in 3-D technology beyond their 45-minute STEAM class at Taft, as well as an opportunity to sneak peek and help with the transition to a new school in the district at Whitin in the Fall. it was wonderful to see all the students and parents learning how to design key chains.

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This year the elementary school fifth graders have partnered with the primary school first graders in Douglas. Each month they get together to do some learning while also having fun. The goal is to allow the first graders to get comfortable with their upcoming transition to the elementary school while also providing the fifth graders a chance to mentor and lead.

During the monthly meetings a few fifth graders are paired up with a few first graders and they do an activity together. The students have read together, played math games, engaged in STEM activities, and written thank you cards to people in the community.

The meetings have taken place on the field outside, in the elementary gym and in the primary cafeteria but no matter the location, the students have had a blast. Even though the pairings are different each time, it is neat to see the students looking for the group they worked with the last time to try and work with

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them again. The first graders really look up to the fifth graders and the fifth graders feel special being able to help others.

Along with the academic skills that the students have worked on during the activities, these meetings are also a great opportunity for the students to work on their social-emotional competencies (self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making). Together they problem solve, communicate, organize, persuade, and advocate.

Overall, the school-to-school connection has been a success. The students look forward to the monthly meetings and are enjoying the new relationships they are developing. The teachers have enjoyed allowing the students to learn in a different format and it is a nice shift away from traditional learning. They are excited to continue to grow the program in the years to come!

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PAgE 22

MAY 2022

Uxbridge Free Public Library to host many interesting workshops The uxbridge Free Public Library is located at 15 North Main St. in uxbridge. www.uxbridgelibrary.org 508-278-8624 x100 / Hours: Mon & Thurs: 10am-8pm, Tues & Wed: 10am5:30pm, Sat: 9am-2pm / Summer hours begin on Memorial Day Weekend!

Adult Programs FArM GIrL ON THE FrONT LINES Deborah Sampson’s Secret; Saturday, May 7th at 10:00 a.m. Details on page 15 of this issue. registration is encouraged.

MINDFuLNESS MEDITATION Thursdays, May 12th & 19th at 6:00 p.m.

Mindfulness is the energy and continuous practice of being aware and awake to the present moment. This program is sponsored by the Board of Library Trustees.

GENTLE FLOW YOGA Mondays, May 2nd, 9th, 16th, and 23rd at 7:00 p.m. Join Michelle Forest, a 200Hr registered yoga teacher, for a gentle yoga class at the library! registration required.

Sponsored by Board of Library Trustees.

BOOK-A-LIBrArIAN Wednesdays from 2:30 p.m.-4:00 p.m.

Need help downloading e-books and

audiobooks on your tablet, using online databases, or setting up an email account?

Book up to thirty minutes with a librarian for tech assistance. registration required.

POPuP LIBrArY AT THE SENIOr CENTEr Thursday, May 5th and 19th at 11:30 a.m.

Coming now to the uxbridge Senior Center… is the Popup Library! Stop by during the lunch meal program to sign up for a library card, browse an assortment of books, and learn what your librarians are up to! Please contact the Senior Center at 508-278-8622 to reserve your lunch.

SENIOr CENTEr BOOK CLuB Tuesday, May 10th at 1:00 p.m.

At the May meeting of the Senior Center Book Club, they will be discussing Magpie Murders by Anthony Horowitz.

This “story-within-a-story” was adapted to PBS Masterpiece and will appeal to fans of classic, Agatha Christie-style murder mysteries. Print copies are available at the Library; the e-book and audiobook are available through the Libby app.

HISTOrICAL FICTION BOOK CLuB Tuesday, May 17th at 3:30 p.m. At the

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May meeting of the Historical Fiction Book Club, they will be discussing Antoinette’s Sister by Diana Giovinazzo, a novel that focuses on Charlotte, the sister of Marie Antoinette. Print copies are available.

BOOKIES BOOK CLuB Monday, May 23rd at 6:30 p.m. The May Bookies Book Club meeting, they will be discussing Detransition, Baby by Torrey Peters, which was named one of 2021’s best books of the year. Print copies are available at the Library; the e-book and audiobook available through the Libby app.

LEAD LIKE A PrO with Matt raidbard Thursday, May 26th at 7:00 p.m. Matt raidbard is a local author (West Hartford, CT) with a book that was released in September called, "Lead Like A Pro: Effective Leadership Styles For Athletic Coaches". The book was written to provide coaches, at all levels of sports, with the tools to be more intentional and effective leaders for their athletes and teams.

He will be holding a virtual event to discuss the importance of coaches viewing themselves as leaders and teach them about leadership. registration required.

Youth Programs BABY STOrYTIME Ages 0-2 years (Mondays at 11:00 a.m.) & Toddler/ Preschool Storytime Ages 2-3 years (Wednesdays at 11:00 a.m.) Have fun with your children during our weekly storytimes, as you engage in songs, rhymes, stories, and movement. This encourages language development, social, and listening skills. registration required.

CrAFTY WEDNESDAY is back in person! - Wednesday mornings and afternoons. Get crafty and creative

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with your kids every Wednesday. Improves coordination, fine motor skills, and encourages creativity. They will have some crafts ready to go as Take-Homes.

MuSIC AND MOVEMENT with Deb Hudgins - Thursday, May 12th & 26th at 11:00 a.m. Join Deb Hudgins as she leads a fun-filled, theme-based program with songs, rhymes, dancing and more!. registration is required. Brought to you by the Library Board of Trustees.

LITTLE LOTuS YOGA

by Lindsey - Mondays, May 2nd, 9th, & 23rd at 4:00 p.m., Ages 6+. Join Lindsey to practice yoga postures and mindful activities which will help you relax, lessen anxiety, and teach young ones to find their calmness. registration required. Brought to you by the Library Board of Trustees.

LEGO CLuB Drop-in on Tuesdays at 4:00 p.m. Lego Club is back! It will be drop-in style. The library will provide all materials to exercise their imagination, creativity, social skills, and sportsmanship. Ages 5y-8y MAKING N’ BAKING VIrTuAL MuG MEAL Thursday, May 19th, 6:00 p.m., Ages 8+ Encouraging kids’ confidence and knowledge in the kitchen. Mixing math, stirring in science, and cooking up culture! Visit the calendar to register. You will receive an email with the Zoom link and recipe list closer to the event. Brought to you by the Library Board of Trustees.

DrOP-IN FAMILY GAME NIGHT Thursday, May 5th at 6:00 p.m. Come explore some new board games and learn how to play while bonding with the kids!

VIrTuAL FOrTNITE TOurNAMENT Thursday, May 12th at 6:00 p.m. They are partnering with One up Games for anoth-

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er Fortnite tournament! The entire event will consist of FOur games with short breaks in between each game. Visit calendar to register! After registration you will receive a confirmation email. Brought to you by the Library Board of Trustees.

DIY SuCCuLENT TErrArIuM Monday, May 16th at 6:00 p.m. Succulent terrariums are easy to maintain because they don’t need to be watered often, can grow in a confined space, are good in artificial light, and are beautiful. Design your own! registration required.

GOATS AT THE LIBrArY! What?!!Saturday, May 21st at 12:00 p.m. Local farmer, and your very own Library Technician, Emily Cole, will be teaching you about goat care and will allow time to interact with her Nigerian, Dwarves, & Nubians. registration required.

TEEN GAME NIGHT Thursday, May 19th at 6:00 p.m. Drop-in!

They have many new board games for you to try out in the YA room. Exploding Kittens, Betrayal at the House on the Hill, Pandemic, Wingspan, King of Tokyo, Disney Villainous, Azul, and more!

TEEN MINIATurE PAINTING Saturday, May 28th at 11:30 a.m. This workshop will help you to learn techniques to make it easier to create works of art using paint in acrylic, oil, washes, and paint markers. All materials will be provided. Theme is Game of Thrones. registration is required. Brought to you by the Library Board of Trustees.

TEEN BOOK-IN-A-BAG Ages 13+ Pick-up May 2nd-16th "Book in a Bag '' is a teen subscription book program. This month’s theme is

“Fighting for Individualism.” registration is required.

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PAgE 23

business review

Ramian receives Guard & Reserve Patriot Award Advantage Truck Group parts director Michael ramian, Northbridge native, received the Employer Support for the Guard and reserve Patriot Award during a ceremony last month, at the company’s dealership in Seabrook, New Hampshire. Administered by the u.S. Department of Defense, the award recognizes supervisors for their outstanding support of employees in the National Guard or reserve.

(L to R): Christopher Pentedemos, ATG Vice President of Network Operations; Keith Reid, ATG parts department team leader and member of the Air National Guard; Michael Walzak, military outreach coordinator for NH; Michael Ramian, ATG parts director; and John Paulik, ATG Senior Vice President & General Manager.

Keith reid, parts department team leader at ATG Seabrook, nominated ramian for the award. reid, who is also a member of the Air National Guard, praised ramian for supporting him during his training to work as an in-flight refueler and while called to service as part of New Hampshire’s COVID-19 response.

By Kristy-Lee Deorsey

“Both of my brothers are in the National Guard and serving has always been something I’ve wanted to do,” said reid. “I was concerned about how I would be able to maintain full-time employment and serve my country, especially if I needed to fly overnight.

Mike went above and beyond to support me, giving me the time-off I needed without question.

In 2021, reid was called to active service to support the state’s vaccination site in Dover and this year has been assigned to work at Frisbie Memorial Hospital in rochester to assist New Hampshire’s healthcare workers.

“I contacted Mike each time I was called to serve and each time he wholeheartedly supported my commitment.

The support he gave me really sets him apart from any supervisor or manager I’ve ever worked for before. This award gives him the recognition he deserves as a leader,” said reid.

“I’m honored and humbled to receive the Patriot Award,” said ramian. “I believe it’s my duty to support all those who serve our country in the Guard and reserve. Keith is a valued member of my team and I want to thank him for his service.”

As parts director, ramian oversees parts sales and support across New England through the ATG network of dealers.

It seems like almost overnight Great Stories Comics and Gaming has grown into its 5,000 square foot retail location at 1167 Providence rd Whitinsville.

Started in 2014 by owner Christopher Mills, resident of uxbridge, next to the Bernat Mills, it has evolved from its quaint 400 square foot location to one of the largest local family-run comic book and tabletop gaming shops in the area. Their mission? To provide community and gaming entertainment for all.

Specializing in a variety of collectables including trading card games, role playing games, action figures, toys, novelties, strategy games, books, and more. The store's greatest asset is its 130 square feet of comics and graphic novels to choose from. The helpful and friendly staff can easily help readers and collectors find what they are looking for, or get them signed up for a subscription to their favorite series.

Members of the community can shop, read, play and gather with friends and family.

For store owner Christopher Mills the driving motivation for setting roots in the community was to offer a positive, healthy alternative for gaming entertainment for young individuals. As a big-time comic book collector, and role-playing game fan himself, opening Great Stories Comics and Games meant providing a place where individ-

The staff of Great Stories Comics & Gaming. uals with common interests could forge lasting friendships.

Beyond offering a diverse range of gaming retail, individuals in the community and their friends can also take advantage of one of their many in-store gaming spaces. With seating for 90, the store regularly hosts events like Magic The Gathering Tournaments as well as Yu-Gi-Oh!, Pokemon, tabletop miniatures and much more! role playing game fans can run campaigns in their designated rPG space, or groups can reserve a table and make family night a game night with their large selection of board games.

What better way to launch their new

location than to host a Free Comic Book Event May 7th, where members of the community can stop in from 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. and pick up select comic books for free. In addition, customers can enjoy 15% off everything in the shop except consignment items and TCG Booster Boxes. Special doorbusters will also be available instore that day. Visitors to the store can also pay to have Wicked Depiction Photography capture their own heroic cos-play moments from 4:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m.

Cove Insurance Agency DUMPSTER RENTALS

BVT to host Golf Tourney BVT’s 23rd Annual Golf Tournament to be held on Monday, June 13th, at Highfields Golf & Country Club. A fun-filled day of golfing 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, delicious snacks, a silent auction, and raffles, all to help support a special cause. Not a golfer, sponsor a tee, a putting green, or a cart to display your company name in the program proudly and during the event.

For all tournament details, to view sponsorship opportunities, donate a raffle item, access the online golfer registration and payment portal, visit www. valleytech.k12.ma.us/golftournament. register today to secure your spot.

Great Stories Comics & Gaming Grand Re-Opening

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PAgE 24

MAY 2022

Beginning Bridges plan events

Early Education and Care (EEC) and sponsored by South Middlesex Opportunity Council (SMOC-Childcare/Head Start). Beginning Bridges CFCE has funding for the towns of Mendon, Northbridge, upton & uxbridge. Currently, their free comprehensive services include weekly indoor and outdoor parent/child playgroups.

They also offer parent education programs, the Ages & Stages Developmental Questionnaire and can connect families to community resources. upcoming Events-registration is required for all upcoming events. Links can be accessed on their website or contact Emily Murray at 508-278-5110 or Emurray@smoc.org.

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 is provided by the Massachusetts Dept. of

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Mondays to Fridays, Parent Child Playgroups, at uxbridge playcenter, 9 North Main Street, lower left office. registration is closed. Please contact Emily Murray via email with any questions or to be put on the waitlist.

Mondays, 05/02 to 06/20, Outdoor Play with Deb Hudgins, 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. at WCC’s Whitin Park & Pavilion at Whitin Community Center, 60 Main St., Whitinsville. Enjoy nature themed music, dance, stories & games for children birth to 3 years.

Wednesdays, 05/04 to 06/22, Music and Movement with Deb Hudgins, 10:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Whitinsville Social Library.

Tuesdays, 05/10 to 06/14, Music and Movement with Deb Hudgins, 10:30

a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at upton Town Library.

Thursdays, 05/05 to 05/26, EggCellent Adventures, 9:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at Taft Public Library, 29 North Ave. in Mendon. Join them in a playful exploration of sensory driven activities, art and early literature favorites. For pre-school children 2.9 to 5 years.

Thursday, 06/02, Coffee and Conversations, 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Taft Public Library, 29 North Ave in Mendon, join them for an informal drop-in playtime where families will be able to build social connections, learn about early childhood development and family friendly resources. Please bring your own coffee. Muffins from Muffin House Cafe will be provided.

Thursday 6/9, MOM’s Club Playtime, 9:00 a.m.-10:45 a.m. at uxbridge Play Center. Connect with other parents while your children experience a group setting for peer play in a safe, fun and developmentally appropriate setting.

Saturday 06/25, Summer Story Walk – And Then Comes Summer, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Nipmuc High School, stroll around the high school courtyard while enjoying a story! A take-home craft will be available. Best for ages 38, this Story Walk is a partnership between Beginning Bridges CFCE and the upton Town Library.

FMI: BeginningBridgesCFCE.weebly.com, Facebook: Beginning Bridges CFCE – Emurray@smoc.org – 508278-5110.

Spring Festival at Touchstone School Touchstone Community School (Touchstone) welcomes members of the greater community to their Spring Festival on May 14th from 10:00 a.m.2:00 p.m. The event is perfect for children of all ages (and parents, too!), and will feature live music, STEM workshops, food, frozen treats, games, and more. Get ready for your vegetable and flower garden by purchasing starter plants from Ox Cart Farm, and amazing seed selection from TCS’s own Burrow Classroom.

This event will feature live music with local favorite CHuCK and MuD. Come listen, dance, and sing along to family friendly tunes that will warm your heart. Teaching artist, Jay

Mankita, will present a hands-on, STEM focused workshop where children design, build, test, and play with rube Goldberg Machines, paper constructions, domino towers, and exploding popsicle-stick snakes.

During the event, the school yard at

Touchstone is full of curious opportunity for exploration and discovery.

Meet chickens and goats and check out what’s growing in their gardens.

Touchstone’s Spring Festival will be held outside, open, and free to the public. In the case of rain, the event will be held indoors.

Touchstone Community School is an independent school serving students in grades Pre-K through 8th grade that cultivates a joy of lifelong learning through transformative intellectual, social & emotional growth. It's located at 54 Leland Street in Grafton, near the border with upton.

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MAY 2022

PAgE 25

Douglas Church hosts Free Concert

Sour Grapes: www.facebook.com/sourgrapes comic

www.sourgrapes comic.com

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

Come hear Dove award winning artist, Mitch McVicker, on Sunday May 1st at the First Congregational Church of Douglas, 3 Common Street, Douglas.

This free concert starts at 10:30 a.m. and is open to the public. Please spread the good news!

Mitch's solo career has spanned over 2200 concerts in 49 states and 13 countries. He has a story to tell and music to share.

You won't want to miss this amazing concert. For more information on Mitch, this event, and his extended tour, please find his Facebook page or go online to MitchMcVicker.com.

CMDART Meeting hosts speaker who served in Ukraine Come celebrate 19 years of service Duncan Wright Award; and in 2013 when the Central Mass Disaster Animal Disney awarded him the American response Team, Inc (CMDArT) will Humane Hero Award. Manny has host its annual meeting at the Emer- deployed nationally and internationally gency Communications and Manage- including working with the Clean Futures Fund on a trap, neuter, ment Center, 2 Coppage Dr, release program at Chernobyl Worcester, on May 1, 3-6 p.m. with guest speaker Emanuel Power Plant in ukraine in 2019. Other deployments “Manny” Maciel, Animal Control Officer for the City of include working with Humane Society International and the New Bedford, trainer, national animal disaster responder and CDC in Haiti, Hurricanes Katrina, Bahamas, Ike, and past President of the Animal tornados in Kentucky and Control Officer Assn. of Mass. registration is required for the Oklahoma as well as multiple cruelty cases. presentation at: https://signup.

Emanuel com/go/fqx BmSw or mem- “Manny” Maciel Manny will share his experience in ukraine working with bership@ cmdart.org.

Manny holds the honor of ACO of the animals near the worlds largest nuclear year 2005 from the MSPCA; 2006 power plant.

CMDArT has a Go Fund Me page currently active to help raise funds to service emergency response trainers, provide supplies to pet owners who are victims of fires, and more. To make a donation go to: https://www.gofund-me .com/f/help-us-get-ready-set-and-roll.

At the annual meeting CMDArT will present the status and needs of the organization in 2022. CMDArT has an immediate need for individuals with non-profit experience/business experience to govern the continued success of the organization. Applicants must live or work in Central Mass. FMI contacting JoAnn Griffin cmdart1@gmail. com or Dee Clark at membership@ cmdart.org. CMDArT is a 501 C 3 non-profit established in 2003. FMI go to www.cmdart.org.

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MAY 2022

CLASSIFIEDS HELP WANTED

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PAgE 27

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MAY 2022