Battle Looms Over Proposed School Override

14 Pages·2017·2.55 MB·English

[phone] • www.winchendoncourier.com Friday, april 28, 2017 Newsstand: 75 cents
Battle Looms
Over Proposed
School Override
BY GREG VINE teachers, parents, and stu-
dents – some too young to vote
If a spate of public hearings – appeared before the com-
over the past week is any indi- mittee to voice their support
cation, it looks like supporters for an override. No one rose
a proposed Proposition 2-1/2 to express opposition to the
override – two override plans, additional spending proposal.
actually – have their work cut Speakers expressed concern
out for them when it comes to over the likely loss of the music
convincing Winchendon resi- program, specialized courses,
dents to back the plan. and other programs designed
Last Thursday, the School to lift Winchendon from a
Committee held a public hear- Level 3 to a Level 2 school dis-
ing regarding its proposed trict, if voters shot down both
budget for fiscal year 2018. The override proposals. The larger
committee voted to recommend of the two proposed overrides
Keith Kent photo
that the town enact a base- was definitely the preference
DOWN IT ALL GOES line budget of approximately of those who addressed the
$13.05 million. The panel then committee prior to its vote.
voted to place two additional While the override idea
By the time this newspaper is on the stands, the area will be a vacant lot. On Wednesday, articles on the warrant for the received the unanimous sup-
Joseph’s Store was leveled. It takes a day or so to clear the debris, another to dig out soil and May 15 annual town meeting; port of the School Committee,
level. Taking down the town garage and the original Cumberland Farms store and pumps one calling for an override of such was not the case during
may take longer as they are brick construction. Digging up buried tanks will take time as well. $417,000, the other proposing public hearings held by the
a $240,000 override. The larger Board of Selectmen and the
override would allow the dis- Finance Committee, respec-
trict to avoid all anticipated tively, on Monday and Tuesday
Recycling pickup at transfer layoffs, while the lesser over- night.
ride would prevent teacher Without discussion, select-
layoffs only.
District administrators, Turn To BATTLE page A12
station becoming an issue
Keith Kent photos
As the Winchendon tower truck battles the Ashburnham blaze from one
side of the building, the Gardner tower can be seen hovering over the
other side.
Mama told me there’d
Photo by Keith Kent
Seen in the left of this photo being parked for pick up, is a 2/3’s full 30 cubic yard container of non-compacted be days like this!
recycling which needed to be utilized for customers, as the compactor on the right was full to capacity.
By Keith Kent and less than 15 miles from by MDS. Recycling has been
Courier Correspondent the transfer station, the ability previously witnessed in the Department
The transfer station and to deliver on Friday was not bulky waste on more than one
town’s single stream recycling explained. Once picked up, the occasion. This means during
dodged what could have been a recycling is hauled by MDS to those incidents recycling still
stretched thin
big problem for residents April a facility in Auburn. ended up going in to the bulky
22 when a call to Monadnock Transfer station foreman waste trash, in potential con-
Disposal Services Inc. for an Lee Rice quickly improvised flict of Massachusetts DEP
empty recycling container and moved the used the town laws.
BY KEITH KENT news is the brush fire was
could not yield provision of an owned Roll-Off truck to move The newly installed recy-
COURIER CORRESPONDENT quickly contained and extin-
empty. an empty open top dumpster cling compactor went in to
guished, and appeared to be
Saturday is historically the usually used for bulky waste service on Sept. 22, 2016 and The Winchendon Fire
accidental. We also used Class
busiest day of the week for the into place for use. is still under warranty. The Department had its hands A style foam for forestry which
more than full April 19 as
transfer station, and there was This is not the first time hydraulic pressure of the pis- is biodegradable so no contam-
members were simultaneous-
no room left for recycling. there has been a problem with inants got in to Tarbell Brook.”
ly spread out over three sites
Located in Jaffrey, two towns having the compactor emptied Turn To TRANSFER page A12 across Winchendon, Gardner, While knocking down
the brush fire, Winchendon
and Ashburnham.
received another call for mutu-
It was days like this that
Portrait of a hero helped convince Chief Tom al aid at 4:15 for a tower truck,
as a 3-alarm fire was taking
Smith to apply for a federal
place at Mr. Mikes and Dunkin’
grant to hire additional fire
Donuts in Ashburnham.
fighters.
BY TRACY GAMBILL Starting at 1:15 p.m. with a Departments from
COURIER CORRESPONDENT Ashburnham, Winchendon,
call for mutual aid, WFD dis-
Gardner, Westminster, and
WINCHENDON — Deb Giordano recently pre- patched Engine 4 and four
Ashby were on scene, with
sented the Winchendon Police Department with firefighters to Gardner Fire
additional departments pro-
a beautifully hand-painted portrait of K-9 Clyde. Department to cover, while
viding coverage assistance
Winchendon resident and president of the GFD assisted Hubbardston
at respective stations. WFD
Gardner Area League of Artists, Giordano pre- with knocking down a brush
Tower 1 was dispatched to
fers to work with acrylic and watercolor. She fire. Ashburnham, with Engine 4
At 3:27 p.m., the WFD
has always enjoyed painting and has done more and its members providing
received a call of a brush fire
of it since she became an “empty nester” when station coverage in Gardner.
at Tarbell Brook at the Harris
her son Matthew left for Norwich University in Nine WFD members assist-
Street bridge project. Nine
Vermont. ed in Ashburnham, with Lt.
members were dispatched,
Giordano made high-quality prints of the Rick Peters left with the new
with five being new recruits.
acrylic painting into note cards for an ongoing recruits covering Winchendon.
Smith said there were possible
fundraiser. They are on sale for $4 each at the Once at Mr. Mike’s, attacked
reports of welding at the site,
Police Department dispatch window and will Tracy Gambill photo which might have caused the the fire from high on the left
also be available at various community events Deb Giordano with the portrait of Clyde presented to fire after workers left.
Turn To HERO page A12 Chief David Walsh and Officer Jim Wironen with Clyde Smith added, “The good Turn To DEPARTMENT page A7
patiently waiting at the side; not terribly interested.
LOCAL SPORTS
Rod & Gun sets Both girls and boys take
new fish fry record a win against ‘Gansett
PAGE 8
6 56525 10431 2 PAGE 11
Friday, April 28, 2017
2 Winchendon courier
Gray skies don’t stop volunteers
Greg Vine photos
Barbara Anderson, chair-
man of Winchendon’s Board
of Selectmen, cleaning up
in the vicinity of Spruce and
Maynard streets during the
annual Earth Day event to tidy
up the town.
BY TRACY GAMBILL
COURIER CORRESPONDENT
Earth Day 2017 brought
gray skies, rain, and 40º
weather to Winchendon,
but that didn’t stop some
hardy volunteers from
picking up litter along
streets.
As of 11a.m. Saturday,
about 30 people had signed
in at the dumpster set up
on Pleasant Street.
Board of Health
Some students from the Winchendon School pick up trash along Pond Street during Saturday’s
Chairman Lionel Cloutier
annual Earth Day townwide cleanup event. Approximately two dozen students from the private
kept street assignments
school volunteer to participate each year.
organized in a notebook and handed out bags and gloves with Health Agent James
Abare.
Rick McAllister donated a truck for picking up larger loads around town. A
grandmother from Vermont got trash bags and gloves from Cloutier. She was in
town to babysit her grandchildren and thought it would be nice to clean up their
neighborhood together.
Local businesses were generous in their support. Belletetes supplied trash bags
and gloves, Gourmet Donuts gave donuts and ice, and McDonald’s donated water
and coupons for ice cream.
Cloutier contacted schools beforehand to request that students make posters
promoting the Earth Day clean up. These were proudly displayed in downtown
store windows.
Two busloads of students from The Winchendon School helped pick up trash,
some of whom worked alongside Selectman Barb Anderson in the Pond Street
area.
In addition to helping on Earth Day, students from The Winchendon School
spend 45 minutes each week cleaning up along the bike path. This fits in perfect-
ly with the school’s Service Learning Initiative under the direction of Miranda
Jennings.
In just 45 minutes, this writer collected two bags of trash and 30 returnable cans
and bottles. That’s $1.50 tossed out car windows.
If it wasn’t so sad, there could be a song about the twelve treasures of clean-up –
12 plastic nip bottles, 11 foam cups, 10 soda cans, 9 plastic lids, 8 candy wrappers,
7 shards of glass, 6 pieces of paper, 5 grocery bags, 4 plastic straws, 3 frying pans,
Winchendon Health Agent Jim Abare, far right, smiles as volunteers sign up to help out during
2 twin size mattresses, and a cell phone in a white purse (turned into the police
Saturday’s Earth Day cleanup of the town of Winchendon. While nearly impossible to hit every
neighborhood, volunteers do their best to pick up trash from along as many streets as possible department).
during the six hours set aside for the event. Though it was an overcast, somewhat raw day with Cloutier reported about 1,000 pounds of trash were turned into the transfer sta-
occasional sprinkles and drizzle, the weather did little to dampen the spirits of those involved. tion this year.
Your Guide To Local Fuel Dealers.
CLYDE’S CORNER
CURRENT PRICE SATURDAY, APRIL 29
ANNIVERSARY BLOW OUT: the 10th anniversary of Fire
OF OIL
& Iron will be celebrated with the annual spring blow out at
$2.049 American Legion Post 193, 295 School St. beginning at 7 p.m.
Come help us celebrate!
Tuesday, May 2
Delivering quality heating oil at the most competitive
LEARN: Computer classes for adults are offered on Tuesday
price and simplifying the customer experience. afternoons from 3:30-4:30 p.m. at Beals Memorial Library and
are open to adults ages 18 and older.
300 High Street, Winchendon, MA 01473 CRAFT FOR ADULTS: On Tuesday nights at 6:30 Beals
Memorial Library has an adult craft hour providing a place
[phone] • [email protected]
to meet and do crafts. People bring in things they are working
on, and can get help on knitting, crocheting, quilting and dis-
$1.939 cuss different ideas.
Eastern Propane
Wednesday, May 3
600 School St. HI-LO OIL, INC. BINGO! Hyde Park residents hold bingo in the community
hall every Wednesday night beginning at 6 p.m. It’s inex-
Winchendon, MA
3 CHECK OUR LOW PRICES pensive, just two cards for 5¢, and the community is invited!
Phone: [phone] 3 Anyone over the age of 50 is welcome to join in. We’d love to
50 GALLON DELIVERIES AVAILABLE
1-800-522-2000 3 have more players.
AUTOMATIC OR CALL-INS
www.eastern.com 3 COMPETITIVE RATES Saturday, May 6
RUN FOR THE ROSES: the annual Kentucky Derby party
Hi-Lo Oil, Inc. “Keeping You Warm Since 1989.”
hosted by American Legion Auxiliary Unit 193 kicks off at 6
1335 Alger Street p.m. at the Legion, 295 School St. Come watch the Derby with
[phone]
Winchendon, MA your friends on the big screen TV, which we will then raffle
off ($5 a chance, tickets already being sold, see an Auxiliary
OFFICE LOCATED AT
[phone] member), followed by dancing and games until midnight. $20
1335 ALGER STREET, WINCHENDON
per person. Food, fun, and more. To benefit the Soldier’s Wish
Foundation.
Oppure Oil
SEUSSICAL THE MUSICAL JR: at Murdock Auditorium
300 High Street Saturday, May 6 at 7 p.m. and Sunday May 7 at 1 p.m. Tickets
adults $10 and children aged 10 and younger $7. Senior citi-
Winchendon, MA
zens free. Murdock Middle School production. Tickets avail-
[phone] able at Main office [phone].
Sunday, May 7
LOBSTER SHOOT: at the Winchendon American Legion
Post 193, 295 School St. beginning at 2 p.m. 25 games for $15,
side raffles and surprises. Sponsored by Eugene M. Connor
For advertising information Post 193 to benefit the annual Winchendon bonfire next
January.
call us
Wednesday, May 10
at 978-297-0050 SPEAKING HOSPICE: the Golden Agers meeting at 2 p.m.
at the American Legion Post 193 downstairs hall welcomes
Chantell Cartee speaking about hospice. Free and welcome all
senior citizens, learn more about our programs. For informa-
tion call Gloria at [phone].
h u : Thursday, May 11
OW tO se The WinChenDon Courier BOOK DISCUSSION: Beals Memorial Library has a book
club that meets at 5:45 p.m. the second Thursday each month,
the next meeting is Thursday May 11 Books are available at
A Stonebridge PreSS PublicAtion
the library.
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Friday, April 28, 2017 Winchendon courier 3
GALA mounts spring photography exhibit
BY GREG VINE Diana Bowles, Susan Ellis, Rick
COURIER CORRESPONDENT Flematti, Eleanor Gamarsh,
The Gardner Area League Lorraine Gauthier, Norman
of Artists kicked held its 2017 Hebert, Desmond Johnson,
spring photography exhibit Dede Keach, Linda Keech,
this past week. The event, held Karen Sugalski, and Brad
in the second-floor auditori- Willard. Student photogra-
um at the Old Murdock Senior phers were Yu-Chun (Jimmy)
Center, opened its doors at Chen, Ying Jiang, Yaie (Josie)
2 p.m. last Saturday and fin- Yang, and Anson Zheng.
ished the showing at 3 p.m. GALA President Deb
yesterday. During that time, Giordano announced the fol-
people have had the opportuni- lowing winners:
ty view dozens of photos taken Winchendon School: First
by 15 members or supporters Place, Jimmy Chen, “Found
of GALA, as well as several Love in Venezia”; Second
taken by four students of the Place, Josie Yang, “Light in the
Winchendon School. Temple”; Third Place Anson
The second floor auditorium Zheng “In the Spotlight”;
was a light, open space to dis- Honorable Mention, Ying
play 50 exquisite photographs, Jiang, “The Catcher by the
some of which were for sale. Sea.”
People milled around to admire Members: First Place, Guy
the camera work, lingering at Biechele, “The Morning
scenes that caught their eye. After”; Second Place, Desmond
Some who attended stood in Johnson, “Latimer Light at Photos by Tracy Gambill, Mat Plamondon and Greg Vine
small clusters to quietly dis- Sunset”; 3rd Place, Jeff Bowers,
cuss aspects of the framed art. “Frozen Fall”; Honorable
21, at the Eugene M. Connor
A section of the show was Mention, Brad Willard,
American Legion Post 193. The
devoted to photographs taken “Orange Crush”; Honorable
post is located at 296 School St.,
by students at The Winchendon Mention, Rick Flematti,
Winchendon.
School, which offers photogra- “Loon.”
An opening reception will be
phy as part of their fine arts Special Awards:
held from 6 to 9 p.m. the night
program. A variety of artwork Winchendon Council on Aging
of Friday, May 19. The eve-
was offered at a raffle table, Director Award, Susan Ellis,
ning also includes live music.
and light refreshments were “Chairman of the Board”;
Hours for Saturday, May 20,
readily available. GALA President Award, Rick
are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and noon
Diana Bowles of Winchendon Flematti, “Harvard Pond
to 4 p.m. on Sunday, May 21.
was one of four photographers Winter Sunrise”; Winchendon
People’s Choice award win-
participating in their first Town Manager Award, Susan
ners and raffle winners will
GALA art show. “I’m still Ellis, “Autumn Reflections.”
be announced at 3:30 p.m. on
learning,” she admitted as she People’s Choice Award,
Sunday.
reflected on preparing for the Larry Barrieau, “Autumnal
exhibit. Reflections I.”
Editor’s Note: Tracy Gambill
Exhibitors included: David GALA will be hosting its 2017
contributed to this story
Alexander, Larry Barrieau, Spring Art Show from Friday,
Guy Biechele, Jeff Bowers, May 19, through Sunday, May

A
ccurAcy
W
Atch
The Winchendon Courier is committed
to accuracy in all its news reports.
Although numerous safeguards are
in place to ensure accurate reporting,
mistakes can occur. Confirmed fact
Real Estate Brokerage
errors will be corrected at the top right
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978-297-0961
4 Winchendon courier Friday, April 28, 2017
VIEWS
W c
inchEndon ouriEr
President/Publisher: Frank Chilinski
editor: ruth deamiCis
Opinion and commentary from Winchendon and beyond
Editorial lEttErs to thE Editor
Dickens: never the answer
All the drama
To the Editor: “Facebook killer takes chicken’s way
On April 18th, 2017 I was on my way out.”
has changed to work a little after 6 a.m. I heard the I often have objections to the manner
radio break into a broadcast to state in which suicide is discussed by those
that Aaron Hernandez had committed around me. A common belief seems to
suicide in his cell at Souza-Baranowski be that if you choose to end your own
Correctional Center in Lancaster. He life, that you are weak, and probably
was 27 years old, not too much older didn’t deserve to be alive in the first
As of April 5, the Brandywine Farms situation has taken a whole new twist. That
than me. I gasped out loud as it was read place. All those that suicide has touched
is the day the judgement in favor of Ramboll Environ US Corp went into effect and
on the air. know this to be false- myself included.
the property located in Winchendon Springs was seized to satisfy a debt.
My knowledge of Aaron Hernandez What suicide means is that the victim
The property is now owned by the environmental engineers who had done work
is slight. In fact, I knew he was a con- has been convinced that their sick mind
for the principals in a previous incarnation.
victed murderer before I knew he was is correct- that their life is worthless,
This could be a real change factor for the town, which has been trying to satisfy ever a football player in my home state. even when help is within arm’s reach.
some issues with an earthen dam on the property as well as permitting processes, However, shortly after I entered the In my view, murderers are not barred
plans and other legalities. break room at my job, I came immedi- from being victims once they victim-
It’s now a new ball game. ately to his defense. A co-worker was ize others. I still believe they deserve
In the meantime, should people claim to still be involved in some way with the cheering loudly, exclaiming that we humanity. I believe that they should
project in question, be cautious. For how can someone do anything like replace a should all have the day off. They named not suffer from extrajudicial punish-
roof on a property they do not own? Aaron Hernandez an anti-gay slur, ment, negligence by their correction-
The Courier is planning to run a story or perhaps multiple stories about the and said that they were glad Aaron al officers, assault from their fellow
history of policing in Winchendon. We are of course certainly appreciative of and Hernandez had finally gained the cour- inmates, or vicious schadenfreude from
grateful to those who have contributed to the initial research. age to, “do the right thing.” the public and the media. After wit-
However, in an effort to be able to paint a more complete picture of the depart- I told this co-worker of mine that I nessing celebrations and dismissals of
ment, we’d love to hear from any readers who might have information they’d be totally objected to their speech. First, Aaron Hernandez and Steve Stephen’s
willing to share. I told them that the use of the anti-gay suicides, I continue to feel very con-
Feel free to send it to the editor at [email protected] or drop it off at our slur to describe anyone was unaccept- cerned that our culture is taking steps
office (we have a mail slot). able. Next, it was the absolute responsi- back in the fight to understand and
bility of the Massachusetts Department combat mental illness and the violent
Thanks so much.
of Corrections to keep Aaron Hernandez crime that can accompany it.
alive, healthy, and therefore capable We should not cherish the loss of their
of serving the sentence for his crime. lives — we need loving kindness and
LETTERS POLICY
Lastly, and most important of all, I told sorrow for the sick of mind and body.
them that suicide is never brave, never We shouldn’t laugh at “crazy people”
good, and certainly never something who “get what they deserve” — we need
Letters to the editor are always welcome, and may
worth celebrating. access to mental healthcare, free of cost.
be sent to to [email protected], or The
The day before the death of Aaron We need a culture that grants prisoners
Winchendon Courier, 91 Central Street, Winchendon,
Hernandez, law enforcement all over safety and a path to correction, even if
MA 01475. Be sure to include a name and resi- the United States was searching for they’ll never be paroled; and even if we
dence. Please refrain from sending letters via fax, Steve Stephens, a man from Ohio who don’t believe they deserve it.
and be sure to supply a home address and phone broadcast his murder of Robert Godwin That’s because we all deserve justice.
number to allow for confirmation. Allow at least 48 Sr. via Facebook Live. Stephens was The National Suicide Prevention
hours for a response. Letters must be submitted by located and chased by police in com- Lifeline is available 24 hours a day at
noon Friday to ensure publication in the following mitted suicide in his car before being 1-800-273-8255.
week’s issue. Every effort will be made to accommo- taken into custody. This tragedy was
date late submissions, but inclusion can not be guaranteed. The rules of good reported globally, and one U.S. newspa- brian diCkens
taste and libel will, of course, apply to all submissions. Personal attacks will per put the following text in bold, broad WinChendon
not be published. The editor retains the right to edit all letters. print across their cover the next day:
Getting Ready for Summer
SOUND OFF POLICY
To the Editor: Your donations are tax deductible as
Please join us at the American Legion we are a 501c3 organization.
Post 193 on School Street on Saturday, If you know of someone who is serv-
In addition to the Letters to the Editor section, the Winchendon Courier offers May 20 from 9-11 a.m. as we collect ing, but not on our list, please let us
an anonymous forum allowing callers to “Sound Off” about the hot-button issues and package donations to send to our know the person’s name and a contact
and topics in their towns. The “Sound Off” line can be reached 24 hours a day, military members who have ties to the person for address updates.
at 978-297-0050. Names may be omitted for “Sound Off” calls only, although you town of Winchendon. Please look on our Thank you again for all of your help
may leave a name or initials. All comments should be made clearly and con- Facebook page - Operation Winchendon with this project. It means so much to
cisely, to minimize the potential for mistakes. Please remember that libelous Cares for more information or on our receive a package from home when you
comments, personal attacks and material that cannot be verified will not be website: www.winchendoncares.com. are far away. Our service members are
published. “Sound Offs” may be sent to [email protected], or The We are always in need of monetary so grateful for every package that they
Winchendon Courier, 91 Central Street, Winchendon, MA 01475 with “Sound donations to help offset the costs of the have received over the years. May God
Off” in the subject line. All “Sound Off” submissions are due by noon onFridays. cookies and postage. bless you for your generosity.
We look forward to hearing from you! Please remember that as the tempera-
tures start to rise, do not drop off items larry & linda sordoni
that could melt, like chocolate. oPeration WinChendon Cares
A LITTLE HUMOR?
notEs of
concErn
things we decided to do was to broken out the day before and carts. I had never used one but at the furthest end of the store.
attend a lot of different church- the church had to be closed. I thought if this could work When I got there and picked
JACK es to see which might best suit *** I could get back to shopping up my stuff, I decided just to
our needs. We compiled a list I have had some serious for longer periods of time. So, explore the store in my new
BLAIR
and started to attend. One par- back problems and standing or I hopped on, asked someone “car.”
ticular church appealed to my walking for even short peri- about the controls, and away I It was not to be. A big red
I have been writing about a wife so she was very eager on ods of time is very difficult. went. The first thing I noticed light flashed and said “NEEDS
lot of serious things of late. So, the Sunday we went to “try Grocery shopping is a big chal- is how slowly they move. But CHARGED.” My ride wasn’t
I am giving myself the reward it out.” When we got to the lenge with all the aisles and that was a good thing for a first going anywhere, and I had to
of being able to share some church there were no cars in the length of the stores. My time user. The second thing I walk back. Best laid plans and
funny and odd things that have the parking lot and chains wife sent me to pick up a pre- noticed was how quickly they all…
occurred recently in my life. across the driveway. scription at a local pharmacy could stop. Again, a good idea. ***
I hope you will like the Act of God? working in a food store, a very The third and most important My third story sounds as if
change of pace and maybe Special signal from Lucifer? large food store. As I walked thing I noticed was I had no it could not be true, but believe
smile a bit now and then. We were disappointed and in the entrance, I realized the pain. Clearly, I could ride this me it is. I went into a restaurant
My wife and I recently moved more than a little interested in pharmacy was at the other end thing all over the store without and up to the bar. The lovely
to another state after 18 years discovering this mystery. of the store, a long walk. having physical problems.
Turn To BLAIR page A11
in Massachusetts. One of the We later found out a fire had Then I saw two motorized So off I went to the pharmacy
Communication, education, eradication
So let me ask: what do we do, what But those who why they think and ate. They have a right to feel screwed,
can we do, with those who stubbornly think exactly that JournEy act the way they do. They’re a demographic like the ones
demonize education? You know who I are out there. You Instinctively, you from Allentown, very separate from
mean — the ones who tell you the Ivies know they are. I of thE want to; you want to the ones I was writing about earlier in
and other schools, my alma mater no know they are. We “save” them, not in this essay. The Allentown steelworkers
doubt included in the indictment, are even know where hEart the religious sense aren’t voting for the Donalds of the
“too liberal”, that they teach students they are. Numbers but cultural and polit- world because they’re racists or even
to be lazy and want “free things.” What don’t lie. That’s the JERRY ical. I don’t think it’s anti-education. They voted for Trump
can we do about the mindset which demographic which CARTON do-able. Not political- because we’ve failed them. Those voters
waves off Nobel laureates as irrelevant didn’t suddenly ly. The shrinks and we can bring back.
or who don’t want to see their tax dol- start voting against social workers can do We can’t though, bring around people
lars spent on elementary and secondary themselves in 2016. their things but that’s who hate, truly hate, and fear, educa-
public education? How do you possibly They’ve been doing it for a very long not the same as changing the way some tion. You’re wasting your time, breath
communicate with that segment of the time and they’re very different from people are going to vote. I’ve heard and energy with them. Don’t debate
population who insist on living in their the laid-off steelworker in Allentown. progressives/liberals need to reach out them on social media even though some
increasingly shrinking cocoons, fright- Those non-Allentown votes have often to blue-collar voters, try to understand of their inane comments make your
ened by progress and diversity, and been cast in national, state, and local their fears as entire industries disap- blood boil. Let them wallow in their
disdainful of science and technology? elections based on racial animus, pear and not only promise them we’ll ignorance. You can’t save or convince
By and large you probably can’t. How though to be sure there are, as you give them different options, but deliver everyone. Don’t even try. Save the com-
do you convince people who refuse to be may have noticed, plenty of well-edu- with job retraining and cheaper com- munication efforts for where it matters.
convinced that education matters, that cated and quite wealthy racial bigots munity college tuitions. Finally this. No, that was absolutely
education is the key to upward mobili- out there too. Those votes have also As an aside, this isn’t about any not a misprint on page three of last
ty, that a mere high school degree isn’t been cast based on a sometimes sim- individual politician, not really. A lot week’s paper. That photo credit of NHS
going to get you anywhere anymore mering, sometimes boiling-over, white of those aforementioned blue collar students doing their Earth Day project
unless you’re going into a specialized hot resentment of “them,” including voters went for Trump last year but was accurately credited to well, me.
trade for which you also need to be what George Wallace once referenced many of them twice before went for First time for everything. Not likely to
certified? Tell me why anyone can ratio- as “pointy-heads.” Barack Obama. They’ve voted for a lot be repeated very often! See you next
nally think education and specifically So be it. I’ve read exhortations we of Democratic governors week.
higher education don’t matter. should reach out to them, understand Those voters are in fact feeling desper-
Friday, April 28, 2017 Winchendon courier 5
Ceremony marks transition for Scouts
BY TARA VOCINO cation Scouting is, showing it’s
COURIER CORRESPONDENT hard to go through life without
WINCHENDON — Ten Boy tasks.”
Scouts moved up in their ranks During his speech, he advised
in a Court of Honor ceremony his fellow Scouts to keep work-
at United Parish recently. ing at ranking up with their
The boys attached a pin the parents by their side.
person they turned to as a “Wait for your turn, and you
mother to symbolize to familial will see your moment to shine,”
support. The boys were award- Nicholas Lamb addressed the
ed 11 merit badges based on crowd. “To the parents, keep
a merit badge book with the pushing your child to achieve
subject of their choice. Subjects greatness. You are one of the
ranged from art to whitewa- most influential people in their
ter rafting and from camping lives.”
to space exploration. The boys Larry Knight introduced
were awarded 12 cyber chip himself as a new troop leader-
cards for their awareness of ship position. By setting a good
how easily they can get in trou- Tara Vocino photos example, the advisor enhances
ble online. the image of the order as a ser-
From left to right, James McCarthy, Matt Spivey, Brady Dufour, Dylan Charland, Kaleb Brown, Zach Cardarelli,
Master of Ceremonies and vice arm to the unit.
Daniel Fuller, Chris Lamb, Nicholas Lamb, and Connor McGuirk receive the merit badges after a Boy Scout Court
Scoutmaster Andy Spivey Nashua Valley Council
of Honor ceremony at United Parish on Sunday.
awarded badges of rank to Chairman Scott Carignan
Scoutmaster Andy Spivey explained the Boy Scouts proceeded in seven different ranks during a Court of Honor at
recognize boys’ achievements. collected donations, noting
the United Parish on Sunday.
He lit candles for each rank guests raised $470 on Sunday
advancement. patch since he enrolled since Tomorrow as part of the knows how to do it. Nicholas to maintain properties, offer
“I couldn’t be more proud of the beginning in 2010, and the Scouting duties. However, he Lamb has been Scouting since council-wide programs and
these boys,” Spivey said. “It’s Scout rank, the first rank in still volunteers there on his sixth grade. grow Scouting in their council
been an honor working with Boy Scouts. own since he wants to become He will lead the boys in clear- territory.
them. We are looking to do Connor McGuirk was pro- a marine biologist. He plans to ing off the gravestones in the “My dad died when I was
more camp-outs and communi- moted from second class to first enroll at the medical technol- veteran’s ceremony before 17 from cancer,” Carignan
ty service hours. We appreciate class rank. ogy program at Montachusett Memorial Day so that each vet- said. “My mother had to raise
your parents and everything “You have tried greater Regional Vocational School. eran can be respected and rec- three boys as a single mother.
that you do.” adventures and practiced For example, he and his ognized for who they are. One Everything I learned I learned
Three boys, Kaleb Brown, your scout skills many times,” Scout friends were learn- of the reasons he is a senior from Scouting. I had to grow up
James McCarthy and Matthew Spivey said. “With your confi- ing how to make splints for a patrol leader is to prepare him quick. I wouldn’t be where I am
Spivey, advanced from the dence and knowledge, you now broken ankle or sprain when for entering the Army as a without Scouting.”
Tenderfoot rank to Scout. have, people will expect more Brady tripped on wood making ranger during the summer of His 16-year-old and 13-year-
“The Scout Tenderfoot of you, and you will expect a splint. his junior year. old boys are actively involved
requirements offer a taste of more of yourself.” “I twisted my arm,” Brady “It’ll put me one step ahead in the Hubbardston troop.
the great adventures awaiting Brady Dufour and Daniel said. “My dad took me to of the other recruits,” Nicholas Carignan became an Eagle
you in Scouting and can give Fuller were promoted from Urgent Care. The boys could Lamb said. “My old teacher got Scout in 1995.
you the basic skills you’ll need first class to star rank. have made me a splint if it a job at school since the princi-
to begin taking part in those “The focus shifts from basic was hurting at that time, but it pal was a Boy Scout and knew
adventures,” Spivey said. “You Scout skills to earning the didn’t hurt until later.” how much hard work and dedi-
have met many challenges in first six merit badges you will Brady said he encourages
earning the Tenderfoot badge, need for Eagle,” Spivey said. his sister, Dani, to follow in
and you are to be congratulat- “Requirements now include his footsteps and join the Girl
ed.” service to others.” Scouts. He said the Boy Scouts
Kaleb, age 12, of Winchendon, Brady, who has been involved teaches to be better in the com-
said he is happy and excited in scouting since kindergarten, munity, be helpful by training
that he has advanced since said it feels good to keep going, in first aid and the Heimlich
he has worked hard since he now that he is going into ninth maneuver.
joined the Scouts seven years grade. He said he is involved Twins Christopher and
ago as a Tiger. mostly for the social aspect. Nicholas Lamb were promoted
“We hike five miles along “Many of my friends, who from the star to life rank.
roads, trails and mountains,” aren’t in my classes, are in it, “The Life rank is one of the
Kaleb said. “We go to Camp so we decided to do it together,” rarest ranks,” Spivey said.
Split Rock in Ashburnham and Brady said. “It’s the only place “This is the last rank before
Tully Lake in Royalston. We I get to see them. Besides the Eagle.”
camp every summer at Camp fun part, we work hard and are Nicholas Lamb, age 14, of
Wanocksett in Dublin, NH.” taught life lessons that could Winchendon, who serves as a
Kaleb sports patches on his affect us in the future.” senior patrol leader, provides
left pocket, such as Arrow Brady volunteered by clean- mentorship to the boys as some-
of Light, the highest rank a ing cat beds and playing one closer in age, or if he can-
Cub Scout can earn, a founder with shelter cats at A Better not, diverts it to someone who
L e
etters to the ditor
St. Pierre: humans are the cause
To the Editor: life will experience a population decline due to
Though Earth Day should be celebrated every extreme changes in their habitat, and a collapse in
day, at least this once-a-year acknowledgment the ecosystem will occur and affect us in some way
brings awareness about how our planet is being sooner or later, more likely sooner.
destroyed. I’m currently working on an essay There are other minor human activities that
arguing humans are the primary cause for global effect the planet as well. There are small things
warming, and I’ve been very passionate about this you can do to help your planet - turning off lights
topic. when you leave a room, planting a tree, recycling,
Some people like to believe that global warming utilizing other forms of transportation (such as
is a myth, and some even disagree that humans carpooling, walking, biking, or public transport),
are the cause of it (including the president). I will and eating fruits & veggies or locally sourced
be blunt – the people with those views are quite foods to reduce emissions and waste. Even if you
oblivious to reality. Global warming and climate do these things for a single day, it can make a huge
change are not things that should be taken lightly, difference. Taking care of our planet is all of our
nor ignored. Yes, the planet does have natural cli- responsibility. We need to take it seriously, not
mate changes, but mankind is accelerating those just one day every spring, but every day all year.
changes to everyone’s detriment. Global warming We owe each other that much.
escalated in the 18th century, when the Industrial
Revolution first began. Since then, the burning of Morgan St. Pierre
coal, oil, and natural gas has emitted five-hundred Winchendon
billion tons of car-
bon dioxide and
other heat-trap-
ping greenhouse
gases, about half
of which remains
in the atmosphere
and ends up trap-
ping more heat,
thus warming
our planet signifi-
cantly. Yes, 500
BILLION tons. A
single gallon of
gas, when burned,
releases nineteen
pounds of car-
bon dioxide into
the atmosphere.
Deforestation
makes warming
worse, as trees
absorb carbon
dioxide – fewer
trees mean more
heat-trapping
gas in the atmo-
sphere. A warmer
atmosphere leads
to melting ice,
rising sea levels,
droughts & more
intense heat-
waves, increased
evaporation, and
increased smog.
All of this has
already negative-
ly affected plants
and other sources
that wildlife need
to survive. nev-
itably, marine
6 Winchendon courier Friday, April 28, 2017
P l
olice og
Editor’s Note: The information con- info taken; 9:31 a.m.: 911 non-emergency
tained in this police log was obtained (Teel Rd.), canceled; 11:06 a.m.: officer
through public documents kept by the wanted (Oak St.), assisted; 11:09 a.m.:
police department, and is considered to info/general (Spruce St.), removed haz-
be the account of the police. All subjects ardous material; 12:10 p.m.: accident
are considered innocent until proven (Beechview Dr.), report taken; 12:12 p.m.
guilty in a court of law. mv stop (Gardner Rd.), verbal warning;
1:27 p.m.: FD call (Front St.), services
rendered; 1:35 p.m.: ambulance (Kemp
TUESDAY, APRIL 18 St.), transported; 1:36 p.m.: info/general
1:45 a.m.: building checked, secure; (Maple St.), referred; 2:45 p.m.: info/
1:48 a.m.: registration check (Spring general (Maple St.), services rendered;
St.), info taken; 1:55-3:06 a.m.: build- 3:37 p.m.: erratic operation (Spring St.),
ings checked, secure; 7:30 a.m.: mv stop info given; 4:52 p.m.: illegal dumping
(Spring St.), verbal warning; 7:41 a.m.: (Lincoln Ave. Ext.), report taken; 5:04
mv stop (Central St.), verbal warning; p.m.: animal abuse (Alger St.), report
7:44 a.m.: mv stop (Gardner Rd.), cita- taken; 5:37 p.m.: investigation (Lincoln
tion issued; 7:47 a.m.: mv stop (Spring Ave. Ext.), report taken; 5:49 p.m.: mv
St.), verbal warning; 7:53 a.m.: vandal- stop (Central St.), spoken to; 5:59 p.m.:
ism (Glenallan St.), no service neces- mv stop (Gardner Rd.), spoken to; 6:32
sary; 7:56 a.m.: mv stop (Front St.), ver- p.m.: suspicious person (Beech St.), spo-
bal warning; 8:07 a.m.: mv stop (Spring ken to; 7:21 p.m.: disabled auto (Spring
St.), verbal warning; 8:18 a.m.: mv stop St.), services rendered; 7:24 p.m.: assist
(Central St.), verbal warning; 8:21 a.m.: citizen (Central St.), services rendered;
erratic operation (Gardner Rd.), unable 7:47 p.m.: investigation (Lincoln Ave.
to locate; 8:26 a.m.: warrant check Ext.), report taken; 8:16 p.m.: accident
(Juniper St.), unable to serve; 8:40 a.m.: Photo by Keith Kent (Baldwinville State Rd.), report taken;
fire/mutual aid (Central St.), trans- 9:25 p.m.: assist other agency (Thirsty
ported; 8:53 a.m.: alarm (Grove St.), no Turtle, Baldwinville), services ren-
service necessary; 9:32 a.m.: summon dered; 10:07 p.m.: extra patols (Lincoln
Clean up your own trash
service (Glenallan St.), info taken; 9:35 Ave. Ext.), services rendered; 10:12 p.m.:
a.m.: ambulance (Happy Hollow Rd.), assist other agency (Glenallan St.),
services rendered; 9:39 a.m.: summons unable to locate; 10:58 p.m.: ambulance
service (Central St.), info taken; 10:02 This pile of illegally dumped rugs located on Lincoln Avenue, while depos- (Rte. 12), George Temple, 36, 38 Baldwin
a.m.: ambulance (Central St.), trans- ited several months ago, is still on the ground. However, depending the indi- Dr., #B2, Baldwinville, PC, arrest; 11:56
ported; 10:11 a.m.: fraud (Ipswich Dr.), vidual street, it may not necessarily be the responsibility of the town, and p.m.: erratic operation (Forristall Rd.),
advised; 10:38 a.m.: mv stop (Glenallan could be the responsibility of the private owner to remove. unable to locate.
St.), verbal warning; 10:46 a.m.: mv stop DPW Superintendent Al Gallant explained, “Different streets in different SUNDAY, APRIL 23
(Central St.), verbal warning; 11:01 a.m.: areas don’t always have the same amount of footage owned by town from the 1:08-1:25 a.m.: buildings checked,
officer wanted (Lakeview Dr.), report side of the road. Some streets could have only 3 or 4 feet owned by the town secure; 8:32 a.m.: burglar alarm (Spruce
taken; 12:23 p.m.: fire (Maple St.), no ser- off the edge of the road, while others could have 10 feet or more depending St.), secure; 8:43 a.m.: DPW call (Sunset
vice necessary; 12:29 a.m.: ambulance on the location. Ct.), referred; 2:29 p.m.: mv stop (Central
(Oak St.), transported; 1:39 a.m.: officer If you find illegally dumped rubbish or waste on a road side or in the St.), verbal warning; 3:47 p.m.: mv stop
wanted (Krantz Rd.), info taken; 2:38 woods, please contact the Winchendon Police Department at [phone]. (Old Gardner Rd.), citation issued;
p.m.: mv stop (River St.), verbal warn- 4:05 p.m.: extra patrols (Black Bridge),
ing; 3:22 p.m.: mv stop (Spring St.), ver- secure; 4:21 p.m.: ambulance (Webster
bal warning; 4:19 p.m.: fire (Royalston (Elm St.), info taken; 7:05 p.m.: mv stop FRIDAY, APRIL 21 St.), transported; 4:50 p.m.: DPW call
Rd. So.), extinguished; 4:39 p.m.: animal (Maynard St.), report taken; 7:36 p.m.: 12:34-1:45 a.m.: buildings checked, (Whitney St.), referred; 5:28 p.m.: erratic
complaint (Spring St.), unfounded; 5:24 fire (Spring Cir.), services rendered; secure; 1:51 a.m.: burglar alarm operation (Gardner Rd.), gone on arriv-
p.m.: investigation (Oak St.), info taken; 10:17 p.m.: ambulance (Mill St.), trans- (Central St.), secure; 6:36 a.m.: ambu- al; 5:38 p.m.: intoxicated person (Central
7:03 p.m.: mv stop (Central St.), citation ported. lance (Mill St.), transported; 8:05 a.m.: St.), referred; 5:45 p.m.: trespassing
issued; 7:16 p.m.: ambulance (Central threats (Mechanic St.), report taken; (Front St.), unfounded; 6:02 p.m.: extra
St.), transported; 7:27 p.m.: ambulance THURSDAY, APRIL 20 8:51 a.m.: animal complaint (Bayberry patrols (Murdock Ave.), secure; 6:20
(Cabot Rd.), transported; 7:39 p.m.: 1:27-2:59 a.m.: buildings checked, Cir.), referred ACO; 11:13 a.m.: road p.m.: fight (Spruce St.), report taken;
larceny (Chestnut St.), report taken; secure; 5:29 a.m.: mv stop (Gardner Rd.), rage (Central St.), spoken to; 12:14 p.m.: 7:47 p.m.: illegal burn (Spruce St.), no
8:00 p.m.: mv stop (River St.), citation verbal warning; 7:28 a.m.: traffic haz- fire/mutual aid (Old Sharon Rd.), ser- service necessary; 8:09 p.m.: intoxicated
issued; 8:17 p.m.: mv stop (Central St.), ard (Central St.), spoken to; 7:44 a.m.: vices rendered; 1:04 p.m.: unwanted person (Central St.), Robert Lafreniere,
citation issued; 10:22 p.m.: investiga- suspicious auto (Central St.), secure; party (Mechanic St.), report taken; 1:51 50, address unknown, Winchendon,
tion (River St.), report taken; 11:11 p.m.: 7:54 a.m.: burglar alarm (School St.), p.m.: harassment (Alger St.), advised warrant arrest.
extra patrols (GAR Park), secure. canceled; 8:30 a.m.: ambulance (Central legal help; 2:23 p.m.: private tow (Morse MONDAY, APRIL 17
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 19 St.), transported; 11:29 a.m.: ambulance Ave.), no service necessary; 2:32 p.m.: 2:00-3:22 a.m.: buildings checked,
12:05 a.m.: suspicious person (Ash St.), (Ipswich Dr.), transported; 11:49 a.m.: assist citizen (Forristall Rd.); 3:28 p.m.: secure; 7:12 a.m.: investigation (West
unable to locate; 1:01 a.m.: ambulance animal complaint (Old Gardner Rd.), 911 hang up (Jameson Way), no ser- St.), info taken; 7:49 a.m.: ambulance
(West St.), transported; 1:21-3:25 a.m.: returned to home; 12:25 p.m.: ambu- vice necessary; 5:07 p.m.: extra patrols (Maynard St.), transported; 8:16 a.m.:
buildings checked, secure; 4:59 a.m.: mv lance (Old County Rd.), transported; (Goodrich Apts.), secure; 5:15 p.m.: officer wanted (Front St.), no services
stop (Gardner Rd.), citation issued; 5:12 12:58 p.m.: suspicious auto (Linden St.), building check (Crime Watch Area), necessary; 9:23 a.m.: ambulance (Spring
a.m.: ambulance (Central St.), trans- spoken to; 1:25 p.m.: animal complaint secure; 5:20 p.m.: fire/automatic alarm St.), transported; 9:43 a.m.: ambulance
ported; 5:14 a.m.: mv stop (Gardner (Spring St.), info taken; 3:03 p.m.: ani- (Hyde Park Dr.), service rendered; (Baldwinville State Rd.), transported;
Rd.), citation issued; 5:28 a.m.: mv stop mal complaint (Central St.), returned to 5:38 p.m.: harassment (Lakeshore Dr.), 10:29 a.m.: assist other agency (Otter
(Gardner Rd.), written warning; 6:07 home; 3:16 p.m.: investigation (Central report taken; 6:37 p.m.: investigation River Rd.), no services necessary; 10:50
a.m.: mv stop (Gardner Rd.), citation St.), spoken to; 3:26 p.m.: harassment (Grove & Pleasant), info taken; 6:42 a.m.: info/general (Lakeshore Dr.), info
issued; 6:20 a.m.: mv stop (Gardner Rd.), (Chestnut St.), report taken; 3:52 p.m.: p.m.: registration check (Mechanic St.), taken; 11:13 a.m.: info/general (School
written warning; 7:36 a.m.: extra patrols animal complaint (Maple St.), report no service necessary; 6:58 p.m.: welfare St.), unable to locate; 12:02 p.m.: info/
(Front St.), service rendered; 7:37 a.m.: taken; 4:15 p.m.: mv stop (Gardner check (Otter River Rd.), spoken to; 7:56 general (Front St.), spoken to; 12:30
mv stop (Front St.), verbal warning; Rd.), citation issued; 4:26 p.m.: mv stop p.m.: disabled auto (Poland & Central), p.m.: info/general (Central St.), no
7:44 a.m.: mv stop (Front St.), verbal (Gardner Rd.), citation issued; 5:05 p.m.: assisted; 8:03 p.m.: animal complaint services necessary; 12:54 p.m.: errat-
warning; 7:55 a.m.: mv stop (Front St.), harassment (Central St.), spoken to; 5:12 (River St.), referred; 8:12 p.m.: assist ic operation (Central St. & Jackson
verbal warning; 7:57 a.m.: summons p.m.: fire (Royalston Rd. No.), services other agency (Otter River Rd.), assist- Ave.), advised officer; 1:06 p.m.: larceny
service (Cedar St.), served; 8:04 a.m.: rendered; 5:24 p.m.: property found ed; 8:20 p.m.: welfare check (Alger St.), (Front St.), report taken;1:35 p.m.: sus-
mv stop (Front St.), verbal warning; (Mill Glen & Baldwinville), info taken; spoken to; 8:43 p.m.: suspicious person picious mv (Benjamin St.), no services
8:06 a.m.: summons service (Glenallan 5:31 p.m.: burglar alarm (Memorial Dr.), (Central St.), spoken to; 9:26 p.m.: road needed; 1:56 p.m.: vandalism (Central
St.), unable to serve; 8:18 a.m.: mv stop false alarm; 5:34 p.m.: investigation rage (Baldwinville State Rd.), info taken; St.), report taken; 5:05 p.m.: burglar
(Front St.), verbal warning; 8:27 a.m.: (Whitney St.), info taken; 5:43 p.m.: sus- 9:34 p.m.: suspicious auto (Baldwinville alarm (Brooks Rd.), secure; 6:15 p.m.:
mv stop (Front St.), verbal warning; 8:44 picious person (Gardner Rd.), unable to State Rd.), dispersed gathering; 9:34 investigation (Chestnut St.), unable to
a.m.: mv stop (Front St.), citation issued; locate; 5:46 p.m.: loitering (Doyle Ave.), p.m.: FD call (Hyde Park Dr.), service locate; 6:44 p.m.: tree down (Central St.),
8:47 a.m.: assist citizen (Krantz Rd.), report taken; 7:15 p.m.: fraud (Goodrich rendered; 10:00 p.m.: warrant arrest removed; 6:46 p.m.: alarm (Spring St.),
referred; 9:27 a.m.: investigation (Beech Rd.), report taken; 7:26 p.m.: summons (Otter River Rd.), unable to locate; 10:23 referred; 7:01 p.m.: mv stop (Gardner
St.), info given; 9:55 a.m.: warrant check service (Brooks Rd.), unable to serve; p.m.: extra patrols (GAR Park), secure; Rd.), verbal warning; 7:40 p.m.: mv
(Happy Hollow Rd.), unable to locate; 7:31 p.m.: investigation (Juniper St.), 10:26 p.m.: extra patrols (Mechanic St.), stop (Baldwinville State Rd.), verbal
9:58 a.m.: burglar alarm (School St.), spoken to; 8:49 p.m.: animal complaint secure; 11:12 p.m.: mv stop (Glenallan warning; 8:05 p.m.: ambulance (Ipswich
false alarm; 11:12 a.m.: sex offender (Bayberry Cir.), report taken; 9:13 p.m.: St.), citation issued; 11:35-11:37 p.m.: Dr.), transported; 8:06 p.m.: DPW call
registration (Spring St.), info taken; ambulance (Mill St.), no service neces- buildings checked, secure. (Front St.), referred; 8:22 p.m.: prop-
11:53 a.m.: investigation (Gardner Rd.), sary; 9:20 p.m.: mv stop (Gardner Rd.), SATURDAY, APRIL 22 erty loss (Central St.), info taken; 9:22
info taken; 1:15 p.m.: fire/mutual aid citation issued; 10:15 p.m.: investiga- 1:28 a.m.: ambulance (Hyde Park p.m.: extra patrols (GAR Park), secure;
(Gardner Fire Station), services ren- tion (Bayberry Cir.), spoken to; 11:08 Dr.), assisted; 2:45-2:47 a.m.: build- 9:26 p.m.: extra patrols (crime watch
dered; 3:25 p.m.: brush fire (Harris & p.m.: death notification (Banner Pl.), ings checked, secure; 6:24 a.m.: info/ area), secure; 9:47 p.m.: extra patrols
West), extinguished; 4:01 p.m.: fire/ services rendered; 11:40 p.m.: warrant general (Spruce St.), unable to locate; (Riverside Cemetery), secure; 9:51 p.m.:
mutual aid (Mr. Mikes, Ashburnham), arrest (Juniper St.), Brian Boudreau, 7:46 a.m.: ambulance (Mill Glen Rd.), mv stop (Maple St.), Jessica Lee Butts,
services rendered; 5:19 p.m.: harass- 41 Juniper St., Winchendon; 11:48 p.m.: transported; 8:12 a.m.: assist other dept. 27, 24 Sunrise Dr., Baldwinville, operat-
ment (Spruce St.), report taken; 6:09 abandoned 911 call (Alger St.), spoken (Glenallan St.), unable to locate; 8:49 ing w/o a license, citation issued; 11:04
p.m.: erratic operation (Gardner Rd.), to. a.m.: ambulance (Spring St.), transport- p.m.: disturbance (Spring St.), spoken
unable to locate; 6:37 p.m.: investigation ed; 9:04 a.m.: info/general (GAR Park), to.
Opioid crisis topic of forum
BY GREG VINE Safety Forum enti- the past three years, in the panel discussion in 2015. to groups about the cri-
COURIER CORRESPONDENT tled “Opioid Use and we’ve had over 50 over- include DA Early, Chief Paul Jarvey, a spokes- sis and has been hold-
WINCHENDON — Abuse: Addressing the doses in Winchendon. Walsh, Dr. Cheryl Divito man for the Worcester ing forum like the one
Governor Charlie Baker Crisis,” will be held next Obviously, we haven’t – local primary care phy- County DA’s office, said next week at Murdock,”
recently announced Wednesday, May 3 from had over 50 deaths, but sician, a young woman Early established the Jarvey continued. “We
that Massachusetts has 6 to 8 p.m. in the auditori- we have had more than 50 who is a recovering Opioid Task Force in have been holding such
received a nearly-$12 mil- um at Murdock Middle/ instances where someone addict, and a woman who April 2015. community forums about
lion grant to battle the High School. The event needed medical attention lost a child to a drug over- “Since then,” he said, once a month, including
state’s epidemic of opioid is free and open to the because of an overdose.” dose. “the OTF has grown to ones in Fitchburg and
abuse. Most of the $11.7 public. “This is an opportuni- “We’re also hoping to more than 200 members Gardner in the fall.”
million in funding will be For the first half-hour, ty to hear directly from have some area legisla- from around Worcester Walsh said opioid
dedicated to outpatient several agencies and public safety and elected tors as well,” said Walsh. County. That includes abuse and overdoses cut
opioid treatment, recov- organizations will man officials regarding state According to infor- representatives from across just about every
er services, and expand- tables where people will and local efforts to com- mation posted online in government, law enforce- age and socioeconomic
ed overdose prevention be able to pick up infor- bat this epidemic.” February by the state ment, health care edu- group in Winchendon.
programs. Some of the mation on a variety of Walsh said the main Dept. of Public Health, cation and the recovery “The problem here
funds will also be used programs and treatment audience for Wednesday’s there were eight con- community.” isn’t any worse than in
to promote treatment and options. A panel discus- forum is parents, “poten- firmed unintended opi- When asked if com- most cities and towns,”
recovery programs for sion, followed by a ques- tial victims or suspected oid-related overdose munity forums, such he said, “but it’s not real-
at-risk populations, such tion and answer period, victims. We want to pro- deaths in Winchendon as the one scheduled ly any better, either. It’s
as pregnant and post-par- will get under way at 6:30. vide them with informa- between 2012 and 2015. for Wednesday, amount definitely a problem that
tum women and state The forum is being tion regarding the things From 2000 through 2015, to “preaching to the begs to be addressed. It
prison inmates scheduled sponsored by Worcester they should look for if nearly 1,400 residents choir,” Jarvey said the doesn’t just affect an indi-
for release. County District Attorney they think their kid may of Worcester County DA believes education is vidual or a family, it real-
The announcement Joe Early’s Central be using or abusing. It’s died from overdoses. vital to combatting the ly does affect an entire
came just over week Massachusetts Opioid also aimed at teachers, Statewide, in the year problem of opioid abuse community.”
before an event designed Task Force. because they see many 2000, there were 355 opi- and other issues related
to address the opioid cri- “I think it’s definitely of these kids just about oid-related overdose to addiction.
sis at the local level. The warranted,” said Police every day.” deaths. That number sky- “That’s why DA
Winchendon Community Chief David Walsh. “In Those participating rocketed to nearly 2,000 Early has been talking
Friday, April 28, 2017 Winchendon courier 7
OBITUARIES
Jean M. (Garrow) Henriques, 88
WINCHENDON Her husband of 57 years, Jacintho
— Jean M. (Garrow) Henriques Jr, died in 2005. She leaves
Henriques, age 88, of four daughters, Sharol M. Case and
23 Liberty Drive, for- her husband William of Sterling, VA,
merly of Ludlow, died Patti A. Messier and her husband Jim
peacefully Sunday, of Winchendon, Amy Condon and her
April 23, 2017, at her husband Mark of Ludlow and Leslie
residence, with her Furbush and her husband John of
family at her side. Florida; a brother George Garrow and
She was born in his wife Carol of Marietta, GA, eleven
Ludlow on Jan. 6, 1929, daughter of the grandchildren, and 14 great grandchil-
late George and Sophie (Ciempa) Garrow dren. A sister, Janet Cunningham, pre-
and was a resident of Ludlow her entire ceded her in death.
life until moving to Winchendon three Graveside services will be held
years ago. Saturday, April 29, 2017 at 9:30 a.m. in
Sewing and arts and crafts were a Island Pond Cemetery, Ludlow.
big part of her life...leading to owning Memorial donations may be made
her own fabric store and teaching at to American Cancer Society, 30 Speen
the Ludlow Boys and Girls Club. She St., Framingham, MA 01701 or to
especially enjoyed sewing for her chil- GVNA Healthcare Inc., 34 Pearly Lane,
dren and grandchildren. In addition, Gardner, MA 01440.
she took great pleasure in music and Stone-Ladeau Funeral Home
dancing, baking, going to Mohegan Sun (stone-ladeau.com), 343 Central St.,
with the seniors, and tending to her Winchendon was entrusted with
flower gardens. Jean was also an avid arrangements.
bowler and enjoyed family game nights.
Tara Vocino photos
Collin Johnson, age 6, of Winchendon, places a guard onto King’s Redwood Castle. David K. Higgins, 73

New Lego Club WINCHENDON — and her husband
David K. Higgins, age Lee of Baldwinville,
73, of 183 Mill St., died Robert Higgins of
peacefully at his resi- Winchendon, Ronald
dence Thursday, April Higgins and his wife
teaches sensory skills 20, 2017, with his fami- Nancy of Winchendon
ly at his side. and David K. Higgins
He was born in Jr. of Gardner, seven
Winchendon on grandchildren and
May 18, 1943, son three great grandchil-
BY TARA VOCINO building their dream house with Emma
COURIER CORRESPONDENT Oakley, age 12, of Winchendon, which of the late Kenneth and Magnhild dren.
(Granquist) Higgins and was a lifelong Military funeral services were held
WINCHENDON — Nine children she called, The Nothing House.
resident of Winchendon. Dave attend- Monday, April 24, 2017 in Massachusetts
learned sensory skills while building a Marisa McLennan was having a scor-
ed Winchendon schools and proudly Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery, 111
house during a new Lego Club meeting pion for dinner, placing a chair in the
served in the United States Army during Glenallan St., Winchendon.
at Beals Memorial Library on Monday left corner and a refrigerator in the
the Vietnam War. The family wishes to extend its heart-
afternoons. right. She was disappointed that there
Dave worked as a custodian for the felt thanks to his daughter-in-law,
“Surprisingly, there’s an even ratio were not any horses available for her
Winchendon public school system for Nancy Higgins, for her love and care.
of girls and boys,” library technician Everything House.
many years until his retirement. He Memorial donations may be made
Alexis Chanthachack said. “You’d think Chloe McLennan was inserting blue
enjoyed playing golf and watching to Montachusett Veterans’ Outreach
there’d be more boys who want to build Legos to make a swimming pool in her
sports on television. Center, 21 Murdock Ave., Winchendon,
Legos. However, both girls and boys get Pool House, since she loves swimming;
His wife and best friend of 42 years, MA 01475.
creative. Each one has a story to tell of but she said she does not get to swim
Carol M. (Charbonneau) Higgins, Stone-Ladeau Funeral Home (stone-
why they are building a house. They get unless it is summer.
died in 2016. He leaves five children, ladeau.com, 343 Central St. Winchendon
excited, especially when they heard we “I’m putting three guards around the
Raymond Higgins and his wife Nadia is directing arrangements.
were displaying them.” pool so no one goes in it that they
of Charleston, SC, Carol Ann Rice
The group, which took off this month, shouldn’t be,” Chloe said. “I also placed
meets Mondays from 3:30-4:30 p.m. for a swimmer inside the pool.”
older children ages 6 to 12. The Friends And Emma was building a small Dean Kauppinen, 76
of the Library donated the Legos. The house with a separate yard.
front desk is still accepting donations. “I like small things,” Emma said. “I
Chanthachack said all programs are would buy one of those little houses, or PROCTORSVILLE real estate development and building.
starting to take off, especially since a cottage. I put a yard so I can play in it. VT — Dean Dean was an avid skier from an
building renovation has begun. The weird thing is I have a giant house Kauppinen, 76, passed early age and had volunteered with the
Wendi Wang, age 8, of Winchendon, though.” away peacefully Okemo Ski program teaching area ele-
was building a farmhouse, which the At the next table over, Dominic Roux, Tuesday, April 18, mentary students how to ski.
two workers named Wendi’s and Ari’s age 7, and Collin Johnson, age 6, both of 2017, at his home, sur- Dean is survived by his wife,
Stables, complete with a horse pad- Winchendon, were deciding where to rounded by his family. Rosemarie; his children, Paul Naumann,
dock out front, beside library volunteer place soldiers, a security camera, and Dean was born in Stacy Naumann, Amy Ashley, Jill
Ariana Deery, age 13, of Winchendon. gate for a fighting castle, which they Winchendon, Sept. Naumann and Nikki Mauroff; his broth-
They colored coded the farmhouse — named King Redwood’s Castle. 21, 1940, the son of er, Mark Kauppinen; his grandchildren,
one color for each row, blue on the bot- “No, I think it should go over there,” Paul and Natalie (Mellen) Kauppinen. Miranda LaDuc, Katelyn Sliwinski,
tom, red and yellow on the upper rows. Collin told Dominic, referring to where Dean was a graduate of Narragansett Morgan Naumann and George J.
“We just figured it out how to build to place the guard. Regional High School Class of 1964. Mauroff.
the foundation,” Wendi said. “There Dominic said it is their version of a Dean received his degree of Bachelor Besides his parents, he was prede-
isn’t a manual. I like building it from house. Jadon also pitched in with the of Science in mechanical engineering ceased by his brother, Lauri Kauppinen.
the bottom up.” boys to build the castle. from the University of Massachusetts. Funeral services were held on
Deery said she looks forward to vol- The houses will be on display on He was a member of the lacrosse team, Saturday, April 22, 2017 at the Church of
unteering every week, adding it is a the mantle in the computer room. the Ski Club, Christian Association, the Annunciation, 7 Depot St., Ludlow,
great way to calm down and relax. She Chanthachack explained she asked club The American Society of Mechanical VT.
often puts labels on books or shelves members what they wanted to build Engineers and Kappa Sigma Fraternity. Graveside committal services and
them. Beyond that, Deery said the Lego with the Legos, and they replied that Dean had worked for Pratt & Whitney interment took place in the Greenlawn
Club is a good opportunity. they wanted to construct houses. The from 1964 to 1978. In the early-1970s, he Cemetery, Baldwinsville, on Monday,
“It allows them to work with other group built “free style” the first week. began renovating homes in Vermont April 24.
kids,” Ariana said. “Otherwise, they’re Beals Memorial Library is open and in 1978, he moved permanently to Funeral Home, 35 Depot St., Chester,
in school with the same kids every day. Monday to Thursday, 1-8 p.m.; Friday, 9 Vermont and began his long career in VT was entrusted with arrangements.
It gives them a chance to make new a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.;
friends.” and closed Sunday. Parking is available
SEND OBITUARIES at no charge to Editor Ruth DeAmicis, by faxing [phone],
Six-year-old Jadon Gerrena, of across from town hall.
or by e-mailing the editor at [email protected].
Winchendon, joined in to help the girls For information, call (978) 297-0300,
build a farmhouse. visit in person at 50 Pleasant St., find them
Sisters Marisa, age 9, and Chloe on Facebook at WinchendonLibrary, We also invite funeral directors and families to e-mail us a JPEG photograph to
McLennan, age 8, of Baldwinville, were or log onto townofwinchendon.com/ print, at no cost, alongside the obituary.
beals-memorial=library.
DEPARTMENT
was a coincidence people were about 100 calls over the course try grants” said Smith.
continued from page A 1 around” said Smith. of a year. As of April 19, we Smith has previously attend- Additionally at this time, 4
Due to a need for additional already have 650 calls, and we ed Grant Writing classes in on call members of the WFD
staffing, Smith applied feder- are not yet even a full one-third New Jersey, and more recent- have been taking classes and
side of the structure, while the
ally for a (SAFER) Staffing for of the way in to the year. I have ly in the fall of 2016 attend- studying for their Emergency
GFD and its tower attacked
Adequate Fire & Emergency applied for the grant to try to ed a grant writing class with Medical Technician (EMT)
from the right. All five depart-
Response Grant on February add 3 full time fire fighters, or Lt. Vaine in Springfield, MA. license. Three have attended
ments worked quickly as Roy
9. Currently the WFD has 8 full one more full time person per Smith said, “We anticipate training at the Phillipston Fire
Brothers Oil & Propane, with
time employees, including the shift to our staff. If we can get knowing by October 1 about the Department, with one attend-
its very large tanks, are located
Chief, Deputy Chief, and 6 oth- the grant, it would certainly grant as the grants have to be ing at MWCC. The classes are
directly next door.
ers who work on two person 24 help ease the burden on the awarded prior to the ending of completed, and testing will
While Mr. Mikes and Dunkin’
hour rotating shifts. community, and the Town the Federal Fiscal Year, which soon commence within the next
Donuts were a total loss, both
Chief Smith explained, Manager was supportive about is different than then munici- few weeks for certification.
the gas station and car wash
“Every year we seem to go up me applying for the grant.” pal fiscal year.” In closing Smith said, “It is
were saved.
important to the fire depart-
The WFD was stretched to its
“We have been applying for ment to apply for these style
thinnest.
a lot of grants to try to sup- of grants due to how busy we
Lt. Vaine and FF-Paramedic
plement the community’s tax are and the need for staffing.
Harding even came in on their
portions of expenses. We have I feel it’s my responsibility as
days off to assist.
applied for employees, a fire the Fire Chief to work with the
Smith said, “Most week days
engine, communication towers, community to bring our staff-
we have two firefighter-para-
fire prevention for the elder- ing levels to the level of the
medics on shift, myself, and the
ly, for the schools, and other public safety they deserve.”
deputy chief. Usually we can
items including private indus-
count on having two to three
respond fire fighters call back.
On April 19 we were very for-
tunate, because we coinciden-
tally had people taking days off
due to school vacation so they
were home with kids. I don’t
like relying on this, because
it is hard to plan public safety
STONE-LADEAU FUNERAL HOME 
around people taking time off
from their regular jobs, because 343 Central Street 
you’re on call staff mostly has
their own full time jobs.” Winchendon, MA 01475
“We were very fortunate yes-
terday with all the incidents Keith Kent photos
Tel: [phone] • Fax: [phone]
going on to be able to cover The recruits and trainers were battling a brush fire near the Harris Road
them due to the fact that it bridge at the same time as the mutual aid calls were underway.
8 Winchendon courier Friday, April 28, 2017
SSPPOORRTTSS
Both girls and boys take a win against ‘Gansett
SUBMITTED BY ANTHONY FINDLEY
Tuesday was a great day for both the Murdock boys’
and girls’ varsity track and field teams. They hosted
rival Narragansett and both had close wins.
The boys won 74 to 60 led by senior Jordan Manuel
who won long jump, triple jump, 2 mile as well as
placing second in the 800 meters. Also major point
contributors were Adam Digman winning the discus,
110 hurdles and 400 hurdles; Richard Swanson who
won the 400m and 200m; Thomas Aho who took second
in the shot put and discus; Justin Thira second in the
triple jump; Ryan Thira second in the 100m and Logan
Huff who took second in the 110 hurdles.
Third place finishes were won by Steven Ingman in
the mile, Dylan Lupien in the 400 hurdles, and Alec
Hart in the long jump.
Boys are at one and one on the season and have a
tough meet on Thursday against Ayer-Shirley.
On the girls’ side the meet was much closer with
the girls edging out ‘Gansett 70-64. The girls were led
by Alexia Allard who won in the 100 hurdles, 200m,
long jump and triple jump. Lilly Digman won three
of her four events with wins in the javelin, 1 mile and
800m. Alyssa Labrack won the shot put and discus and
Brianna Bouchard won the 400 hurdles, second in the
200m and triple jump as well as a third place finish in
the long jump. Hanna Demanche won the 2 mile and
sister Paige placed second in the 400m and high jump.
Victoria Swanson and Hanna Seghir contributed
with much needed third place finishes in the shot put
and discus respectively.
There was no doubt that today youth was on display
with 55 point coming from underclass women and
44 for those from the middle schoolers. The future is
bright to say the least at Murdock.
The girls also look to keep their league champi- Jeff Millman photos
onship hopes in sight when they go against Ayer on
Thursday.
Whatever else, a tragedy
Of the Aaron Hernandez saga, let us openly political, some ized we are now it’s time the two best teams is going home early.
agree on this — it was an all-around not. Talking to retire the tradition. Dumb, dumb. NBC is just hoping the
tragedy — for the family of Odin Lloyd, Skipping the trip is I’m not much of a Rangers beat Ottawa. Networks want
SporTS
for Hernandez who either simply threw nothing new. Bruins hockey fan mostly New York teams. Duh. Anyway, hockey
away all that immense talent or per- goalie Tim Thomas because a) I have trou- playoffs are the best around.
haps was unable to outrun a whole lot and Ravens’ Harvard- ble following the puck For a good run there, Tiger Woods
of demons for whatever reasons, for his educated center Matt JERRY on TV, and, b) I never was the best around too. The other day,
family and most of all for a four year Birk didn’t go during the CARTON had a hometown NHL he had a fourth back surgery. Recovery
girl who has lost her father. Obama Administration team after Oakland rath- time? About six months. And it barely
Who knows what makes us tick? because they didn’t like er than Baltimore was got a blip on the radar. The golf world
Again, it was simply a tragedy. The the President’s views on included in that original has moved on. Tiger has nothing to
Patriots of course said nothing, though certain issues. 1966 expansion. To the extent I root- prove anyway.
it’s fair to suggest maybe they could So be it. The whole exercise has ed for anyone, I rooted for the Caps They have baseball’s best record as
have acknowledged a child losing a become silly anyway. It may have start- because they were the closest team. I write but the Orioles have a lot to
parent who had been a Patriot. But no. ed in 1978 when Jimmy Carter welcomed Irrespective of who you root for or how prove. They’ve gotten some unexpected-
They were busy that day. Well, some the hometown NBA champion Bullets big a fan you are or aren’t, there’s no ly strong starting pitching but it seems
of them were. A bunch of people from to the South Lawn after a parade from question the NHL playoffs are by far, by a bit much to expect that to continue
the organization, players, front office God-forsaken Landover, MD (where the very far, the greatest in sports and that for another five months. I wonder too
folks, maybe some hangers-on, were team played its home games in the especially goes for overtimes. The taut- if the Red Sox might suffer from some
at the White House. A bunch of oth- equally God-forsaken Capital Centre) ness is palpable, the drama sky-high. post-Papi letdown without even realiz-
ers didn’t go for various reasons, some through DC. But the routine came of That said, the playoff format is absurd. ing it. The Jays are off to the worst start
age during the Reagan years and I don’t Washington and Pittsburgh, long-time in franchise history. The Bombers are
recall politics being a deterrent. do bitter rivals and again one-two in the playing quite well. The AL East looks
BEAMAN’S BAIT SHOP recall the Gipper hoisting a football Eastern Conference, are meeting in the to be fun and competitive again. What
yelling out, “where’s Ricky Sanders?” semi-finals even though they were the more could we all want, right?
Route 202 • 196 Glenallen St.,Wincehndon referencing the Redskins wide-out after best teams during the regular season.
978-297-2495 • 8am-8pm Daily the team’s 1987 title and tossing a pretty A conference final match would have
impressive spiral. It was all pretty inno- been better had they both gotten there
FULL LINE OF TACKLE
• free t-shirt giveaway • cent but given how ideologically polar- under a different system. As it is, one of
Friday, April 28, 2017 Winchendon courier 9
Youth Venture project goes forward earning grant
BY JERRY CARTON said Turner after being told her entire might not feel like it’s okay to talk about “You did a good job. That was a com-
COURIER CORRESPONDENT grant request was being honored. As for or share their feelings. That’s why this pelling presentation on an important
WINCHENDON — The ‘Blue how it began? project is important,” she stressed, subject,” said Hunt, speaking for the
Hands’ United Way Youth Venture “We went around and asked teach- adding, “we want them to understand panel.
project launched by Murdock junior ers if they’d be willing to put a ‘blue they’re not fighting the battle alone and “She’s done the yeoman’s balance of
Hannah Turner received $600 in seed handprint’ outside their door, which with the ‘blue hands’ project, they’ll see the work,” said MHS Youth Venture
money from YV’s appropriations panel would represent a safe space where there are places in the building they can faculty champion Kris Provost. “Her
Monday. The money will go to an effort students could come in and talk about go and people they can talk to.” commitment to the cause is obvious.
to continue to raise awareness and edu- whatever they wanted,” said Turner. Continuing education is a key com- She and her partners deserve to be com-
cate about mental health issues among “Most of them said ‘yes’. We got a great ponent so Turner and her team which mended.”
teens. response.” has added Kate Hutton and is seeking Noted LeBlanc, “Hannah jumped on
The award from the Mount Wachusett Turner’s presentation took place at to recruit students from each grade this idea and I think we all agree the
Community College based program was Murdock. MWCC liaison Evan Berry to perpetuate the project are planning more we talk about these issues the
the culmination of an effort that began explained how the process would work, a walk-a-thon fund-raiser to increase better off we’ll all be. The sooner we
with a documentary shown by health offering the panel multiple options awareness about what they’re doing to can get kids to understand these things
teacher Chris LeBlanc in December. regarding funding. To the committee combat the still prevalent stigma sur- are okay to talk about and to seek help
The film piqued Turner’s interest comprised of Winchendon Furniture rounding mental illness. for, that’s what we want to do. It’s to
because mental health issues run in general manager Glenn Hunt, school “We want this to continue after we Hannah and Marissa and now Kate’s
her family as they do in many, and she committee Vice Chairman Janet graduate,” she emphasized. “This isn’t credit they’ve taken this on.”
recruited friend and soccer teammate Corboserio and MHS senior Aidan a one-time thing.” Lauren Mountain, MWCC’s Youth
Marissa Losurdo to undertake the ‘Blue Provost, Turner used a Power-Point to Not only that, Turner and Rivers Edge Venture director said she has seen “a
Hands’ initiative. lay out a step-by-step recruitment, mar- restaurant co-worker Amber White are lot of presentations” on a wide variety
“I’m happy. I feel really good. I was keting and growth plan for the project. preparing an age-appropriate presenta- of community-service based proposals.
nervous about the presentation but I’m “A lot of teenagers suffer from some tion for elementary school students. “This one nearly moved me to tears,”
glad they felt it was worth funding,” form of mental illness,” she told the trio. “You can never start educating too she reflected.
“There’s a lot of depression but they early,” she remarked.
Children pet animals in need of love
ing interesting facts. hands.
Animals ranged from a “He’s a big, fat rodent,”
snake to a ferret. Abigail said.
“I’m going to take “If you can hear me,
my friend out of the car clap twice,” McNamara
seat,” McNamara said. said. “Stay seated. I’m
“When you touch him, going to bring out an alli-
you’ll feel how snake gator, who has temper
skin is made out of the tantrums.”
same stuff as your hair. She put a rubber band
He’s very nice – one of around his jaws to avoid
our best travelers.” bites, and let the children
Winchendon resident pet her.
Abigail MacFarland, age Lastly, she brought out
6, said the snake was a 12-pound, female owl,
slimy. which she said, cannot
“Its scales were soft,” turn her head around
Abigail said. “I wasn’t fully. She has to move
scared.” one shoulder at a time.
However, Mackenzie Mackenzie called the
Greg Vine photos
Gotantis, age 5, of owl “super soft,” but her
The children hold Tucker, a 22-foot python.
Gardner, petted all ani- favorite animal was a
mals except the snakes. bunny. She was holding
BY TARA VOCINO McNamara explained
COURIER CORRESPONDENT all of the animals she “I’m not scared of it, a stuffed animal bunny,
but I didn’t want to pet and she fosters an out-
WINCHENDON — showed children at the A chance
him,” Mackenzie said. door bunny.
Owls can see really well Animal Adventures to touch an
McNamara gave all “I give the bunny salad
in the dark, snakes aren’t show last week at town alligator.
children an opportunity and carrots,” Mackenzie
slimy — they’re soft, and hall were either rescued
to hold Tucker, a 22-foot said.
geckos can use camou- or neglected and in need Up close
python, by standing side- Gloria Belliveau said
flage to avoid its enemies. of love. Children petted with an owl.
by-side in a long line. she is glad the company
Handler Danielle or held them while learn-
McNamara held his head takes care of the pets that
for support. no one wants, adding that
Gordon, a gecko, uses she had a good time.
its tail to defend itself
when a predator is try-
ing to eat him. When
Gordon loses his tail, it
grows one back in a few
weeks. Gordon camou-
flages himself, and stays
the same color.
McNamara demon-
strated static electricity Service Directory ads offer sellers the fastest and most
by putting Gordon on a
affordable way to advertise. From apples to azaleas,
tree pole, and then rub-
bing her head. Chryslers to condos, the directory is the way to sell! Give
Abigail said Gordon
Ruth a call today to place your ad: 800-367-9898
was soft. She just used
one finger since he is so
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McNamara played
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Abigail said Forest 978-297-1815
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10 Winchendon courier Friday, April 28, 2017
Getting down and dirty at Beals gardening program
BY TARA VOCINO She gave the children four options for gardening journal to keep track of the
COURIER CORRESPONDENT flower breeds – marigolds, sunflowers, progress, which they colored in.
pink or yellow cosmos, and zinnias. Sisters Jaci, age 5, and Nina Langford,
WINCHENDON — Learning to dig Winchendon resident Orion Fournier, age 11, of Winchendon, are planning to
in the dirt, plant a seed, care for the age 6, chose the celebration tomatoes, place the flowers in a sunny window.
plants and eat the harvest yourself were cucumber, marigold, and zinnias. Nina said she will eat the cucumber
the lessons to be cultivated as Beals “I liked how the seeds are different,” and cherry tomatoes. Her grandmother,
Memorial Library sponsored a chil- Orion said. Mary, grows them at her house. She
dren’s gardening program during April His mother, Katrina, said Orion plant- took home “The Gardening Book for
vacation. ed five-foot tomatoes in their backyard Kids” through the library.
Gardening Enthusiast Patti Stanko, in May 2016, which she said sparked his Jaci said she will eat her celebration
who works as a library technician, led interest in gardening. tomatoes and zucchini.
children in choosing between cherry Stanko discussed the timeline of “We don’t have any vegetables at
and celebration tomatoes, a vegetable, when to plant. home,” Jaci said.
and four different kinds of flowers, “Too much water isn’t good for a She asked early in the program if
planting each one in a medium-sized plant,” Stanko said. “I know it’s tempt- she could eat them. Stanko replied zuc-
pot. ing, but don’t plant it outside until the chinis are often used in pickles and in
“When you get home, be sure to give end of Memorial Day. We still have cool pancakes.
it a tiny drink,” Stanko said. “The bulb days in April.” “I hope you bring in your flowers so
will hold water. Make sure the soil is on She said to watch the flowers and we can see the results,” Stanko conclud-
top of the pot, and then add seeds.” notice how many days they take to ger- ed the program.
minate. She provided children with a
Tara Vocino photo

Orion Fournier, age 6, placed seeds into a
medium-sized pot for his zinnias.
A Rush to Injustice
A week ago – on Thursday, April 20 – On Monday, Jack The tries,” Americans love Interestingly, eight of the 10 states
the state of Arkansas executed 51-year- Jones, age 52, and to think of the United with the highest rates of execution
old Ledell Lee for the murder of Debra Marcel Williams, RumoR States as first among since 1976, lie in what is known nation-
Reese in 1993. The victim was 23. age 46, died in the equals. Yet, how civ- ally as The Bible Belt. Combined, they
m Kill
Lee was one of eight death row nation’s first back- ilized can a country have put 1,071 people to death over that
inmates the state had planned to exe- to-back executions be when it consistent- time span.
cute over the span of 11 days. But, since 2000. Hey, why GREG ly ranks near the top I would love to know what Bible these
please, don’t believe for a moment that not make a night of VINE among countries car- people are reading. If I recall correctly,
the state was acting out of some admira- it, right? rying out the greatest Jesus – for good reason – was not big on
ble desire to give the people of Arkansas Another man, number of executions the death penalty. Ultimate judgment,
the chance to see justice in action, or to Kenneth Williams, was scheduled to die each year? In 2016, the U.S. actually he preached, is best left up to God.
bring some measure of closure to the last night (April 27). dropped to seventh place, with 20 exe- While I didn’t always agree with him,
families of victims. Arkansas’ killing spree was tempo- cutions; the first time since 2006 it had I greatly respected the late state Rep.
The real reason the Department rarily halted last week, when compa- ranked lower than fifth. The only coun- Robert Hawke. He was, in the most
of Corrections, with the full support nies that manufacture two of the three tries that out-ranked us last year were sincere sense, pro-life. He argued that
of Gov. Asa Hutchinson, set up what drugs used for lethal injections went China (which considers the number of one could not claim to be pro-life while
amounts to an execution assembly line to court to block the state-sanctioned executions carried out each year as a also supporting the death penalty. He
is because the “use by date” of one of killings. One of them was granted a state secret), Iran, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, refused to let anger and some prehis-
the three drugs used in executions is restraining order after arguing it had Pakistan, and Egypt. toric instinct for vengeance cloud his
due to expire at the end of this month. been misled by representatives of the The U.S. is also the only one of the G7 judgment.
I can almost hear the frenzied voices in Arkansas Dept. of Corrections when countries, defined as the globe’s seven To cram as many killings as possible
the executive office in Little Rock: “The they sought to purchase the drug vecu- major advanced economies as reported into an unrealistically short time span
drug expires May 1…we have to kill ronium. However, the restraining by the International Monetary Fund, because the shelf life of one execution
SOMEbody!” order was ultimately overturned by the that still has the death penalty. Those drug is about to expire is criminally
Thanks to the every-day disarray that Arkansas Supreme Court and the kill- countries include Canada, France, irresponsible. For the U.S. to hang onto
is Trump’s Washington, Arkansas’ kill- ings proceeded. Germany, Italy, Japan, the United the last vestiges of a medieval “justice
ing machine has received scant notice. When it comes to “civilized coun- Kingdom and the United States. system” in unconscionable.
Monty Tech experiment going to space
FITCHBURG — After to deDiego. A panel com-
numerous postpone- prised of Monty Tech
ments due to technical teachers reviews sub-
glitches, officials have mitted experiments, and
given the green light for a finalists are sent to SSEP
February launch date for for evaluation.
the Space X-10 Falcon 9 For this flight, Monty
Rocket Dragon spacecraft Tech will be represented
out of Cape Canaveral Air by seniors Olivia Houle
Force Station in Florida. of Leominster and Shelby
On the commercial Landress of Winchendon
payload, destined for as “co-principal investi-
the International Space gators. “Collaborating
Station, will be a science with them are junior
experiment developed by Zachary Houle of
a team of students from Fitchburg and senior
Montachusett Regional Madison Clark of Ashby.
Vocational Technical Their experiment will
School. determine whether or not
Sponsored by the “streptococcus mutans”
national Student (a bacteria commonly
Spaceflight Experiments found in the human oral
Program, this is the sev- cavity) produce more lac-
enth experiment Monty tic acid in microgravity,
Tech has had accept- and if the reproduction
ed into the program. rate of the bacteria is
Launched in 2010, the affected in space, accord-
program is designed ing to deDiego.
to inspire and engage “These students were
America’s next gener- finalists and runner
ation of scientists and ups for the M7 flight.
engineers. Although their experi-
Students in grades 5 ment was not selected for
through college from the mission at that time,
across the country are they took the feedback
invited to develop sci- they were given by the
entific experiments and SSEP review panel and
Monty Tech’s most recent team of science students, whose experiment has been approved to accompany the next commercial
submit them for review reworked their propos-
flight to the International Space Station, include, from left, Shelby Landress of Winchendon, Madison Clark of Ashby, Olivia
and eventual acceptance al,” she explained. “This
Houle of Leominster and Zachary Houle of Fitchburg. Mathias Suarez Rodriguez of Fitchburg (second from right), designed the
into the program. is a great example of how
mission patch, and Paula deDiego, science teacher and Monty Tech’s advisor for the Student Spaceflight Experiments Program
The winning experi- real-life science works.
(SSEP).
ments will be flown in The students incorpo-
low Earth orbit to the rated the feedback from
International Space local and national review M9 mission,” she said. Brook School, Pepperell,
Station, where they will panels and implemented Zachary said he got won for the elementary
remain for up to eight recommendations.” involved because he school competition.
weeks, collecting data. Olivia said she first thought the program was DeDiego stressed that
Paula deDiego, Monty became involved in the innovative, interesting all Monty Tech students
Tech science teacher SSEP program when she and something that could have benefitted from the
and SSEP community was a sophomore. She affect others in a positive SSEP experience.
program director, said and classmate Shelby way. “For example, an out-
she hopes the students submitted a proposal for “I have enjoyed the growth of the program
will be able to travel to an experiment. Although process because it has been the establish-
Washington, DC, this it was selected as a final- involves teamwork, and ment of an after-school
summer, to present their ist by the local review the positive impact it has STEM club, where all
findings at SSEP’s annu- panel, it didn’t make the on advancing scientific students are encour-
al conference held in the final selection process. knowledge and data,” he aged to explore careers
Smithsonian’s National “While we did not win, said. in science, technology,
Air and Space Museum. it was apparent that we As part of the program, engineering and math, Courtesy photo
Monty Tech continues had a solid project on our students are invited to through fun and exciting Mathias Suarez Rodriguez of Fitchburg, a senior graphic
to be the only school in hands. We then decided submit designs for the activities. In addition, communications major at Monty Tech, designed the winning
the state, and the only to edit the project with mission patch. Mathias many science teachers mission patch, which will accompany the next commercial
vocational-technical the feedback we got from Suarez Rodriguez of now incorporate design flight to the International Space Center, scheduled to launch
school in the country, the national selection Fitchburg, a senior and proposal-writing this month.
to participate in the pro- board. During our junior graphic communications activities into their cur-
gram. year, Zach and Maddi major, submitted the win- riculums.” Massachusetts Space Advancement of Science
The experiment compe- joined our team, and we ning high-school design. Donations from Design Consortium, in Space), NyproMold,
tition is open to all Monty resubmitted the proposal Arianna Picariello, a the following groups Monty Tech Class of 2015, Rollstone Bank & Trust,
Tech students, according and were selected for the fourth grader at Varnum helped fund the project: Subaru of America Inc., DRS Technologies and
CASIS (Center for the Ramsey Rehab.