~ THE NEW ~
Uxbridge Times
“Your Hometown News” VolUme 19 • issUe 8
A FREE Monthly Publication
Uxbridge • north Uxbridge • linwood • Douglas • northbridge • whitinsville • sutton • manchaug
aUgUst 2010
Exploring a National Park for the Blackstone Valley? By ConstanCe Dwyer Several public meetings to explore options for a “possible” National Park in the Blackstone Valley have been hosted by the John H. Chafee Blackstone Valley National Heritage Corridor Commission. Two were recently held in Whitinsville. The day meeting took place on July 8th at Alternatives in Whitinsville and the evening meeting on that same day was held at the Atria Draper Place in Hopedale. Three options were offered. The public is in agreement of the general proposal and the consensus is to support option three, which was the only option to include Massachusetts towns. This option would include Whitinsville and Hopedale, along with sites in Rhode Island. Sites being considered in Rhode Island are Old Slater Mill in Pawtucket, the villages of Slatersville in North Smithfield and Ashton in Cumberland. The proposed park would encompass resources associated with the Blackstone River
State Park operated by the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management including the Kelly House and segments of the Blackstone Canal and the Museum of Work & Culture in Woonsocket. The National Park staff would be housed at an enhanced visitor orientation center located in Pawtucket across the street from Old Slater Mill. Blackstone Valley Rhode Island towns include: Burrillville, Central Falls, Cumberland, East Providence, Glocester, Lincoln, North Smithfield, Pawtucket, Providence, Smithfield, and Woonsocket. Blackstone Valley Massachusetts encompasses Blackstone, Douglas, Grafton, Hopedale, Leicester, Mendon, Millbury, Millville, Northbridge, Sutton, Upton, Uxbridge and Worcester. During the question and answer portion of the meeting at Alternatives, Ted Kozak, Northbridge Town Manager, spoke out in support of option continued on page 12
August events at River Bend Farm
trotting off to italy - Bob Koopman of northbridge and his horse “whippoorwill Keep Dancing” will be representing the United states in a competition in Pratoni Del Vivaro, italy. also pictured above is Bob’s daughter, anna Koopman.
Koopman to compete in Europe Bob Koopman and his 11 year old Morgan gelding horse "Whippoorwill Keep Dancing" of Northbridge have been selected, by the US Equestrian Federation, as one of 5 single horse teams to represent the United States. There will be at least 15 Countries represented which are allowed 6 entries each. The event is located in Pratoni Del Vivaro, Italy and takes place every
Postal Patron
2 years at different locations throughout the world. The event will be held this month. The World Singles Championship is a combined 3 day event that starts with dressage then day two is a marathon that is approximately 20 km. The final day is an obstacle of cones and the scoring from all 3 days is how you are ranked with the other competitors. PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID BOSTON, MA PERMIT NO 55800
eCRWSS
Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park announces upcoming events at River Bend Farm Visitors Center. All programs are free and open to the public. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Something for all ages! Guided tours are available for groups with advance notice. For more information, please call the park at 508-278-7604. Kidleidoscope Kids Story Hour: Nature themed story and activity hour for ages 3-5, Siblings welcome! Join us at the Visitor Center for a morning story hour program designed to connect young children and their guardians to the great outdoors. Participate in an outdoor activity and themed story followed by a craft. Drop-in attendance welcome. Meet at River Bend Farm Visitors Center, 287 Oak Street Uxbridge. For more information, please call the park at 508-278-7604. Free. Junior Naturalists: Friday afternoons 3:00-4:00 p.m. Through Stories, activities, and nature hikes, explore life along the Blackstone River and Canal. A new theme each week! Ages 5-8. Meet at River Bend Farm Visitors Center, 287 Oak Street Uxbridge. For more information, please call the park at 508-278-7604. Free admission. Junior Rangers: Thursdays 2:00-3:30 p.m. Ages
8-12. Looking for a summer adventure? Join us each week as we discover wildlife and take a look at the history in our own back yard! Pre-registration is required and program numbers are limited. Programs run rain or shine and be prepared to spend time outside! Earn your DCR Junior Ranger Badge and certificate. Now through August 19th. Call 508-278-7604 or email blackstone.heritage@state.ma.us to register. Free. Free Concert at the Canal Series at Blackstone River & Canal Heritage State Park Oak Street Uxbridge. Bring your own lawn chairs or blanket for these outdoor concerts; free admission. In case of inclement weather call Visitor Center 508-2787604 for event status. • August 15th - Worcester Men of Song, Barbershop chorus • August 29th - Quintessential Brass Band, performing Classical, jazz, swing, ragtime, Dixieland, rock, Latin and popular music. Quintessential Brass takes the role of the brass quintet to the limit and beyond. Smokey Bear's Birthday Party - Sunday, August 8th. Come celebrate Smokey Bear's 66th birthday at River Bend Farm. Activities from 1-5.
BuSineSS Bio:
Graphic Ink and Ribbons Jewelry & Gifts Two businesses under one roof offering customers many printing and photo services as well as beautiful gifts and accessories. Stop in and see the wide selection of Troll Beads, Handmade Hummingbird Feeders, Handbags and more. Complete story on Page 35
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