The Winchendon Courier

Serving the community since 1878 ~ A By Light Unseen Media publication

Week of March 20 to March 27, 2025

What makes Winchendon what it is...How we're making Winchendon even better

This Week's Winchendon News

Beals Hosts Legislative Breakfast with State and Local Legislators

Speakers raise up the call to be "Empowered by Libraries"

Massachusetts Library Commissioner Karen Traub
Image copyright Town of Winchendon

by Inanna Arthen
On Thursday morning, March 13, the Beals Memorial Library hosted the 2025 Legislative Breakfast, which was open to the public free of charge. The theme of the event was "Empowered by Libraries." Speakers included State Representative Kimberly Ferguson (1st Worcester District), State Representative Jon Zlotnik (2nd Worcester District), State Senator Jo Comerford (Hampshire, Franklin and Worcester Districts), Winchendon Town Manager Bill McKinney, Winchendon Board of Selectmen Chair Rick Ward, and Winchendon Selectman Erika Eitland. Also attending were State Representative Susannah Whipps (2nd Franklin District) and Gardner Mayor Michael J. Nicholson. The library's 2nd floor auditorium was filled, and Winchendon TV videorecorded the proceedings.

Following a complimentary breakfast buffet, Beals Memorial Library Director Manuel King welcomed everyone and thanked them for attending, and thanked his staff for organizing the event. He continued, "So, I know we are 'the choir' here. We all love libraries and how we empower our communities, but it is vitally important that we let our legislators know that we come together in groups like this. We have this morning to remind them just how important we are, and the crucial role we play in our cities and towns. The key to a vibrant community is an active and engaged library. Here in Winchendon, we have just that, and we are lucky to have a community that fully supports our library."

Mr. King spoke of the $2 million investment that Winchendon has in the library as the building was updated and made fully accessible. Now the library faces "a threat to its very existence" due to the town's budget crisis. "This morning, I have two asks of our legislators," he said. "First is to take this message back to the State House: please, please pass all of the MBLC's [Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners] budget request for FY2026, and second, please increase the state aid to cities and towns to a level that meets the rate of inflation that is crippling our community's ability to maintain the services we need to properly serve our citizens."

Mr. King introduced Mr. McKinney as the first speaker. Mr. McKinney spoke about the budget situation facing the town, which has led to a request that voters approve a Proposition 2-1/2 override. "Manny and Alexis and everyone here at the library, they do an incredible job," he said, but there were many other needs as well. "We will be having public information sessions during the month of April, myself, department heads, [Winchendon Public Schools Superintendent] Dr Gosselin, to get out there in less formal settings, kind of like this, for all the residents to be able to come and ask their questions. A lot of people don't understand the tax levy. They don't understand what the override is, they don't understand how state aid impacts us...[it's not] us versus them, not us versus the government, but everyone going in and understanding what their vote means to the future of the town."

The next speaker was Ms. Eitland. She spoke about the monetary value of services like the library's being worth more than the amount an override will increase tax payments. The schools are in "corrective action" with the state to improve student outcomes, and the library offers many resources and programs free of charge. It can also be an emotional support for kids, and a backup educational source for the schools. "We have a lot of elderly residents, we have individuals with disabilities, and the faculty have a program that actually brings the books to the people. That means that the impact of this place is so much greater than this individual space that we're trying to save," Ms. Eitland said. Winchendon residents would also lose their membership in the CW-MARS network which allows patrons to access materials from libraries all across the state.

Next up at the lectern was Mr. Ward, who shared some personal connections to the Beals. 79 years ago, the building across Pleasant Street from the library's front entrance was a hospital, and Mr. Ward was born there. Mr. Ward's parents worked in factories in town, and "Winchendon would be the extent of my world" as a child. The family owned few books. But the Beals Memorial Library showed him the whole world and all of history. Mr. Ward served as a library Trustee as an adult and worked with former librarian Julia White as the building was transformed in the 1990s. The library is a place for everyone, families, seniors and youth, "a magic place" that is open to all. He closed by urging everyone to vote on the override.

Beals Assistant Director Alexis Chanthachack came up next, to talk about the library's very successful autism inclusion initiative, "See Beyond the Spectrum," through which the Beals is the first library in the state to receive the Autism Welcoming Certification. If the library closes, this will be lost, along with all the sensory-friendly programs and materials, and the training the staff has had to meet this populations's needs.

Jane LaPointe, member of the board of Trustees, spoke next. Like Mr. Ward, Ms. LaPointe grew up in Winchendon and "the library was always a big part of my life." As a Trustee, she learned more about the resources available with CW-MARS and the MBLC. "This ongoing support for the state libraries is essential to the well-being of our communities and our community members across a range of ages and interests and needs. Our public libraries can and do make a difference in the quality of life in our towns and in the people there," she said.

Renee Eldredge from Heywood Health Care said "I'm not a public speaker," but briefly urged people to support the library. "We need to come together, as a community. I've seen it done before. We can do it again," she said.

Mr. King introduced Massachusetts Library Commissioner Karen Traub. "Thank you for being here and thank you for being advocates," she said. She explained that the MBLC was begun in 1890 by Elizabeth Putnam Sawyer who petitioned the legislature to establish the Free Library Commission for the encouragement and extension of libraries. "Elizabeth Putnam Sawyer determined that every municipality in Massachusetts should have a free public library, and within 14 years, this had been accomplished," she said. "That's advocacy, and we're here today as advocates, and we're going to continue that work with determination and strength."

The MBLC has nine commissioners, and their chief role is supporting the Library Legislative Agenda, for which "we highlight areas of the budget that we want to really support, and ask for the legislature to support and to boost up." Governor Healey wants to level-fund libraries this year, and the MBLC is pushing for more. "We need to keep asking, because if there is any more money that can be found, we want it. We want libraries to be the priority." The MBLC is looking to increase direct state aid to local libraries (Line Items 9401 and 9501) and support for the Mass Center for the Book (Line Item 9508), which promotes literacy and reading through programs like the Massachusetts Reading Challenge and Letters About Literature. It also supports Massachusetts authors and publishers.

State Representative Kimberly Ferguson (1st Worcester District)
Image copyright Town of Winchendon

There are also bills being presented to the legislature which support libraries, including HD625, "An Act Regarding Free Expression," addressing attempts to ban or restrict books, and threats against librarians and libraries, and HD1211, which addresses making library access to digital resources equitable. Currently, big publishers force libraries to "rent" digital books rather than purchase them, so the books disappear after a given length of time.

Ms. Traub explained the federal funding libraries receive through the Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS), which helps fund federal grants, support statewide databases, fund summer reading programs and helps with access to ebooks and audiobooks. Federal funding is currently uncertain due to changes being made in the government.

"Now is a good time to ramp up your advocacy," Ms. Traub said. "So if you are a supporter of your library, you can join the Friends. You can run to be a Trustee. Definitely talk to your legislator. These legislators who are here today want to hear from you. They hear all the complaints from all their constituents about all the things that are wrong with this country and the state. They need to hear from library supporters how important libraries are. And when you talk to them, begin by thanking them, because they are library champions, and we really appreciate everything that they're doing." There are organizations that advocates can join. "Massachusetts is the birthplace of American democracy, right? And it's the birthplace of the free public library. As times are getting hard and there are a lot of challenges that we're facing, Massachusetts is going to be the place where we feel the power of libraries and the power of library champions, and that's us," Ms. Traub concluded to applause.

The next speaker was Tressa Santillo from the Massachusetts Library System, a state-supported nonprofit that supports over 1500 member libraries of all types, and strives to provide equitable access to all those who live or study in Massachusetts. MLS has launched a scholarship program to help staff in small libraries attend the Public Library Association conferences and other professional development events. Their Pathways to Inclusion program works to increase accessibility to library careers among underrepresented groups. They work to increase access to digital materials to MA residents and public schools, and run a Browse Borrow Board program for state transit riders. "With your advocacy and financial support, we will ensure that state funds continue to benefit local communities," Ms. Santillo concluded.

Next to speak was Jeanette Lundgren, Executive Director of CW/MARS, the largest library consortium in the state. There are nine such networks, providing an integrated online catalog, managing material requests and check-out, also providing internet and telecommunications resources to libraries. Ms. Lundgren explained that CW/MARS has 165 member libraries, 159 of them public libraries, 108 of those in small towns. 18 new libraries joined in the past four years, Ms. Lundgren said, and six of those were able to offer an online catalog for the first time--they had still been using paper card catalogs. The online catalog has led to huge increases in library use, in one case 700 percent.

"In 2024 we had 10 million checkouts of physical materials and a record breaking 3 million checkouts of our digital materials for a total of 13 million items borrowed throughout CW/MARS," Ms. Lundgren said, including Winchendon. "If we stacked each item borrowed, it would be 150 miles high." Users can place holds in materials throughout the system. Users can also apply for and renew library cards online.

Courtney Andree, Executive Director of Massachusetts Center for the Book, came up to expand on her organization's programs and need for support, which had been mentioned by other speakers. They were founded in 2000 as the Massachusetts Affiliate of the Library of Congress. They represent Massachusetts at the National Book Festival and Library of Congress Initiatives.

Lisa Cheever, Board member of Central Mass Library Advocates, came up next, explaining, "We are a group of individuals representing Mass libraries and library advocates and continuing education service. We support library workers, library trustees, directors, anybody who loves libraries. We're here for you." They offer continuing education and mentorship for librarians, and also teach ways to effectively advocate.

Rep. Zlotnik came to the lectern to say that no one needed to be shy about talking to their legislators. Everyone was reminded during COVID how important library services were, as they "took a new role in helping people through the challenges of those days." He also relateed how Andrew Carnegie, one of the richest men in history, used his wealth to build libraries all over the country, including 50 or 60 in Massachusetts, "because he grew up in an institution just like this, just like Rick did, learning and seeing the world through books a local library."

Rep. Zlotnik said that the state budget process was about to start, and they faced tough decisions. "We gave $3 billion back to the taxpayers a few years ago, we cut a billion dollars in taxes last session, but certainly the budget outlook is different going into the next fiscal year," he said. He's been helping with the Poland and Streeter Schools project in Winchendon, but that project has seen a cut in federal funding that the state is trying to fill. Rep. Zlotnik said that over 15 years, the MA legislature is "able to come to a point where Representatives and Senators across the political spectrum from all corners of the state with different priorities and different ideas and different world views can come together and make these decisions in a way that's almost always been unanimous, and I think that's something we should be very proud of the Massachusetts."

Rep. Ferguson stepped to the lectern next. "One thing I wanted to mention that Representative Zlotnick, I don't think, did, is we do have a very active library caucus at the State House, which we're members of. And we have meetings, we advocate, not only during the budget time, but during the budget time especially. And we bring back the information and the stories and the real examples that we hear at meetings and events like this." She concluded talking about how important the Worcester Public Library was to her when she was growing up, and how one of the most memberable moments of her childhood was signing her name on her first library card.

The last speaker was Senator Comerford. She thanked everyone for their advocacy. "I'm really so pleased and so honored to be here today and to lock arms with great House colleagues. They are fighters, and we need fighters at this moment in the state legislature," she said. The issues and the budget are complex, and "the state needs to do a lot better for rural communities, for small communities, in a range of issues, everything from local aid to education and beyond, and that's all part of this budget puzzle."

Mr. King thanked all the speakers for coming to the event. "You guys really are library champions, and we appreciate that," he said. "Keep in mind, we live in fraught and anxious times, but we are all stronger together."

The entire event with all speakers can be seen on Winchendon TV at https://winchendon.cablecast.tv/CablecastPublicSite/show/210?site=1

DPW Director Updates on Bridge and Water Main

The Whitney Bridge connecting Front Street and High Street
Photo by Inanna Arthen

by Inanna Arthen
On Thursday, March 20, the Courier sat down with Department of Public Works Director Brian Croteau for some quick updates.

The Courier asked for some more details on the situation with the Front Street bridge, now closed with a hole in the deck on the south side, since it was repaired just a few years ago.

"Yep, that was in 2016, the the steel I-beams were repaired, at the ends only," Mr. Croteau said. "So we had an issue. Last year, we closed half the bridge. We contracted with a bridge engineering firm that we use, BSC Group. We did a scan of the bridge with ground penetrating radar. It does an evaluation of the concrete, the metal, all the factors. The report came back with 'cancer in the concrete' so it makes it so any money that's spent on it is very temporary money. I can't see putting hundreds of thousands of dollars into something that is crumbling around it. So the recommendation is to replace the entire bridge deck. If you're going to replace the bridge deck, you might as well replace the steel girders because we've already had issues, and the anticipated cost for that was about $6 million to replace that bridge."

Asked if there might be an alternative to replacing that exact bridge, Mr. Croteau explained, "All bridge designs go in front of the state, even though the state does not own the bridge, they approve all bridge designs and installations. So I had already had conversations with the state, with BSC, and the list of bridges for replacement in Massachusetts is so long that it would be decades before we would even see a bridge here, if we ever see a bridge here, because it doesn't isolate anybody, because they can go around and they can use Water Street and High Street. So the state looks at it a little bit differently as well."

Mr. Croteau isn't sure just how old the bridge is. The electric co-generation plant right next to it, which was installed in the 1990s, is privately owned and does not provide anything to the town, although it is apparently still in operation.

The Courier asked for an update on the big water main project connecting Winchendon to the reservoir in Ashburnham.

"That project's going to be done the end of April, beginning of May," Mr. Croteau said. "It'll be 100 percent complete. All the transmission main's been laid. They worked through the winter. The weather cooperated with us. They're doing tie-ins now. We're slated for a 45 to 60 day completion right now."

All the funding for the project is part of the Water Department budget, Mr. Croteau said.

Asked if there was anything he wanted to let residents know, Mr. Croteau said, "No, just status quo, fixing roads and trying to keep the town running right."

Resident Urges a TM Article Protecting the Town from Dirty Industries

by Inanna Arthen
At the Board of Selectmens' meeting on Monday, March 10, resident Theresa Langdon rose during the public comment period to propose an article for the Town Meeting warrant "to provide for the safety of the town and surrounding areas against dirty industries searching out and acquiring land to use for the purpose of regulated technologies, such as those that use plastic as fuel or fuel substitutes, with a general use of plastic or waste, post use materials, raw materials, feed stock, recovered feed stock, or any substance in any step of commercial energy production. These shall include, but not limited to gasification, pyrolysis, syvallis, hydro pyrolysis, catalytic cracking, enzymatic breakdown, or combustion in manufacturing process used to transform materials such as rubber, plastic or other substances as chemical feed, starts, crude oil, diesel, gasoline, home heating oil, such as the proposal that they were working towards in Templeton, in the town that is 0.5 miles from our border."

Reading from her written proposal, Ms. Langdon went on to say that even though incineration is not allowed in Massachusetts, industries "marketed as advanced recycling or advanced technologies, this would result in toxic ignitions, poison rivers, contaminated micro plastic, dust, cancer causing chemicals, noise pollution, possible fires and explosions."

The town's history of accepting COMM 97 materials [at the Mabardy/WR French landfill project] and relatively inexpensive and abundant land means Winchendon may be seen as "an easier target for these industries."

"This article is proposed in an attempt to be proactive, not reactive," Ms. Langdon said. "A suggestion was put forth that it may be helpful to incorporate into the town the article that is referred to as Article 97 of the Massachusetts Constitution, which was adopted in 1972, which affirms the rights of citizens to a clean environment, including its natural, historical and esthetic qualities. This article is also seen as codifying the public trust doctrine in Mass, allowing state and local governments to protect and promote the environment."

A similar article is being proposed in Templeton, and if Winchendon's complements that article, "we may have a greater chance of being successful and being accepted by the Attorney General if it is passed as a bylaw at a Town Meeting. Ultimately, it is zoning which will determine how the town resources are used."

Ms. Langdon said that the town needs to reserve areas for non-residential uses that aren't detrimental to the surrounding neighborhoods.

Ms. Langdon referred to an Act Relative to Chemical Recycling proposed by Rep. Jessica Giannino of Revere, HD 3701, which died in committee and is being reworked as HD 3678, by Rep. Jon Zlotnik, Rep. Susannah Whipps and Rep. Natalie Higgins. (Also sponsoring the bill are Rep. Danillo Sena and Rep. Michael O. Moore.)

"We definitely need business in town, but choosing the right one that will help with growth but not impact safety or quality of life is important," Ms. Langdon said, adding, "Those thoughts came from a group of very committed, intelligent people that researched and worked on this for months, and I just kind of put it together. It's all their thoughts, a lot of people from different different areas, different industries, and different points of view."

After Ms. Langdon concluded, Board member Audrey LaBrie asked to respond, but Board Chair Rick Ward said "We don't want to engage with this debate. We do have an article coming up, we can talk about it later." Board member Erika Eitland asked Ms. Langdon to send the Board a written copy of the testimony she had just given at public comment.

Commentary

A Life With and In and (sometimes) Underneath Libraries

by Inanna Arthen
I meant to continue the series about Proposition 2-1/2 and Winchendon, but I had phone calls out that did not get returned in time (one to a library that's only open two days a week) and research that got much deeper than I expected, so Part 3 is forthcoming. But I attended the Beals Memorial Library's Legislative Breakfast, and the stories that Rick Ward, Jane LaPointe, Kimberly Ferguson and others told got me to thinking of all the library stories I could tell.

As a kid who was reading by age 4, I lived for libraries, and I still do. I've probably been inside 50 or 60 Massachusetts libraries, at least. When I went on a research trip for a novel I was writing, to west Penobscot Bay in Maine, I visited every town library. I worked in a library to pay for my BA degree, and I almost went into library science as a career. I've applied for a number of library jobs just in the last 10 years, but despite several interviews, the odds were never in my favor. I remain a humble library patron.

But an enthuasiatic one. The first thing I've done whenever I moved to a new town was apply for a library card. When I moved to Winchendon in 2016, I had a CW/MARS card with the Pepperell library, and I came to the Beals to switch it over. I knew the Beals very well. My dad was a Trustee during the 1990s.

Patty Stanko was at the desk and waited patiently while I went through my wallet to find my Pepperell library card. As she changed the record in the computer, Patty said half-jokingly, "I just want to know why you have so many library cards."

So I explained that the Minuteman Library network card was from when I lived in Acton, and it was still good, so I could check out books in that network. The Groton Public Library card was because Groton wasn't in CW/MARS, and I needed a book they had, and to get it I had to get their library card. The Boston Public Library card was because I sometimes did research there. I also have alumnus privileges to use the entire Harvard University library system.

This means I can tell you that Harvard's Widener library has four sub-basements, and tunnels, and I've been through them all. In the lowest level, the stacks of shelves are on rolling tracks, tight together with just a single space. To get between any two stacks for a book, you hold down a button to make all the other stacks shift left and right in a mass. The walls and floors are bare concrete, the lights are uncertain fluorescent, and I know that flattened between two stacks somewhere down there, there's a body. I just know it. I was getting a book that had last been checked out in the 1940s.

The basement is where libraries keep the really good stuff. Ask Manuel and Alexis how many times I've sent them down to the basement of the Beals. Worcester Public Library is hiding some pretty good stuff below street level, too.

In 2022 I was a panelist for the Necronomicon convention down in Providence. I was on a panel called "The Day the Comics Died," which was all about the huge backlash against comic books in the 1950s. This backlash was whipped up by a book, a massive best-seller at the time, called Seduction of the Innocent, by Dr. Fredric Wertham. I had read a lot about what the book said, but I'd never seen a copy.

This book brought down the entire comics industry, threw hundreds of people out of work, and led to the creation of the Comics Code Authority, which censored comics the way the Hays Office censored films at the time. But Seduction of the Innocent has virtually disappeared. Used copies are rare and cost a lot. I wanted to actually read the book for the panel, but I didn't want to pay $200 for a copy.

CW/MARS to the rescue! I ran a search and found two copies, and put a hold on the title. I got the book in time to read it for the panel. (It's awful, by the way.) Yes, I sent someone down to the basement. Down in Providence on the panel, I held the book up and said, "In the entire CW/MARS library network, there are two copies of this book, and this is one of them. I read it so you don't have to." The entire room applauded and cheered. It was a very successful panel. Necronomicon badly wants me to come back. I couldn't have done it without the Beals and their membership in CW/MARS.

So much that libraries have, that the Beals has, that you might never think of until suddenly you need it. As I've researched for the Proposition 2-1/2 series, I started thinking, "someone...ahem...should write a sequel to Winchendon Years 1764-1964, from 1965 to the present. So much has happened to this town." That would be a lot harder to do without the Beals. No one else has all the Winchendon Courier back issues (in the basement). No one else has every Annual Town Report. Yes, the WHCC has some really neat stuff...but keeping the archives of the town is the library's job. Along with a million other things.

Libraries have expanded their scope tremendously in the digital age, but librarians are still the stewards of knowledge, and history, and all the things that make us human, celebrate our differences and spotlight what brings us together. There is nothing like them. I can't imagine living in a town without one.

Community Connector

Your One-Stop Guide to What's Happening in your Town!

FRIDAY MARCH 21

Tamar Russell Brown on Hanging Your Art 5:00-8:00 p.m. Want to learn how to hang your art for a show or home? Need help on how to price your work for shows and galleries? Tamar's lecture will provide insight! Social hour, light refreshments 5:00-6:00 p.m., lecture at 6:00 p.m. $15 for GALA members, $20 for non-members. Register at https://form.jotform.com/250067234539962. Sponsored by GALA. At Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave, Winchendon.

SATURDAY MARCH 22

Say Cheese Food Truck Day! 11:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. Our favorite grilled cheese food truck will be at the farm, slinging your favorite gourmet grilled cheeses! Say hi to the cows and grab a fresh pint of milk to wash down that amazing sandwich! At Smith's Country Cheese, 20 Otter River Rd, Winchendon.

Kiwanis Spring Fling Featuring New Release 7:00 p.m. Come celebrate year 100 with the Kiwanis Club of Winchendon. Dance to the tunes of the area's most fun band, NEW RELEASE with local opening act, Cailte Kelley! Door prizes, raffles, and all money raised goes back into the Kiwanis of Winchendon mission, serving the kids of Winchendon and the surrounding community. At Winchendon American Legion Post 193, 295 School St.

MONDAY MARCH 24

Bob Jordan at the Old Murdock 11:00 a.m. Enjoy the music of Winchendon resident Bob Jordan, who performs a mix of folk, rock, and original songs. For more information, call the Senior Center at 978-297-3155. At Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave, Winchendon.

TUESDAY MARCH 25

Dementia Care Training at the Senior Center 5:30 p.m. This month, "Nourishing the Caregiver: Cultivating Calm in Chaos." Trainer: Olivia Companion, certified Dementia Practitioner and Montessori Dementia Care Professional. Fee: $25. Call the Senior Center at 978-297-3155 to register. At Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave., Winchendon.

THURSDAY MARCH 27

Our Neighbor's Kitchen Dinner 5:30 p.m. at UU Church of Winchendon. Dinner will be served in the Parish Hall; take-out available after indoor diners are served. This week's menu TBA. Free-will donation $2 per person, $5 per family; no one turned away. 126 Central Street.

Sourdough Workshop 6:30-8:30 p.m. In these workshops you'll learn how to make your own sourdough bread. You'll bring a LARGE mixing bowl, measuring cup, Danish whisk, spoon or spatula, 4.5 cups of all-purpose flour and apron. Take home a sourdough starter, a loaf to bake, tea towel, new bread making knowledge. $25 covers tea towel, instructions and the starter "Mother". Part of proceeds go to the "Pure Hope Foundation." Limit of 12 bakers, RSVP to Nicol Wander at 978-939-3726, nicwander21@gmail.com.

BINGO at the HUB 7:00-9:00 p.m. Play 15 exciting games, just 50 cents per sheet of three squares! Last game is a COVERALL for $1 a sheet, with a GUARANTEED $75 pot! Bring your friends, grab your lucky charm, and get ready for a fun-filled evening of bingo and prizes! Sponsored by Winchendon Parks & Recreation Commission. At Winchendon Community HUB, 5 Summer Dr.

FRIDAY MARCH 28

Trivia at the HUB 7:00-8:00 p.m. Join us for a fun evening of Trivia at The HUB! Whether you're looking for a night out with friends, family fun, or a chance to unwind, we've got you covered. Purchase Beer and Wine to help support the CAC while you bowl! Join us for a fantastic evening of bowling, drinks, and community fun! Brought to you by Winchendon Parks and Recreation! Tag your friends and let's make it a strike! 2nd and 4th Fridays January through April. At The HUB, 5 Summer Dr., Winchendon.

Morton E. Converse Tournmament of Plays 7:00 p.m. Murdock's annual one-act play competition! At Murdock High School auditorium, 3 Memorial Dr, Winchendon.

SATURDAY MARCH 29

Art Critique with Care 10:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m. Are you looking for encouragement and support from other artists? Bring up to 2 pieces of your artwork (finished or unfinished) to share with your circle of artists' friends. Join us even if you don't have art to bring! Free to all GALA members. Please RSVP to Janet, Jandu516@gmail.com. Sponsored by GALA. At Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave, Winchendon.

Morton E. Converse Tournmament of Plays 7:00 p.m. Murdock's annual one-act play competition! Final night, with judging and presentation of awards. At Murdock High School auditorium, 3 Memorial Dr, Winchendon.

WEDNESDAY APRIL 2

Mount Wachusett Community College Outreach 11:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m. Curious About College? Meet Michelle from MWCC! Michelle, a Recruitment Counselor from Mount Wachusett Community College, will be at the CAC for a meet-and-greet with inquisitive residents. Have questions about college? Wondering if "The Mount" is the right fit for you? Stop by! No appointment needed--just bring your curiosity and questions. We can't wait to see you there! At Winchendon CAC, 5 Summer Dr.

THURSDAY APRIL 3

Fitchburg Art Museum and Farmers Market Trip 2:00-5:00 p.m. Free admission to the Art Museum! Sponsored by Old Murdock Senior Center. Home pick up available upon request or meet at the Senior Center (52 Murdock Ave, Winchendon) at 1:30 to get a ride. RIDES MUST BE SCHEDULED TO CONFIRM YOUR SEAT ON THE BUS. You can sign up online at https://www.townofwinchendon.com/council-aging or call the Senior Center at 978-297-3155.

Culinary Workshop for Teens 3:00-5:00 p.m. Cooking lessons with Growing Places for youth age 13-18. Every other Thursday, free of charge. Learn how to make cookies and soup! Products made will be sold at The HUB and served to seniors every other Friday! Participants will gain hands-on cooking experience and give back to the local senior center by cooking a delicious meal for them! Please fill out a separate RSVP form for each participant you are registering at https://www.the-hub.org/event-details/culinary-workshop. Workshop is held at The HUB, 5 Summer Dr., Winchendon.

SATURDAY APRIL 5

Winchendon Farmers Winter Market 10:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m. First Saturday of each month! At Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave, Winchendon.

Costume Jewelry Art: "Repurpose unwanted jewelry" 1:00-3:00 p.m. With instructor Kathryn Swantee. Let's create something unique out of unwanted jewelry. Use your imagination and creativity and rummage through our pile of junk jewelry. Bring your needle nose pliers and any junk jewelry you are willing to part with. $30. Limited seating. Register at https://form.jotform.com/250407756341960 or call Meghan at 603-313-3805. Sponsored by GALA. At Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave, Winchendon.

Mardi Gras Murder Mystery Dinner 6:00 p.m. Let us transport you to the heart of New Orleans for an unforgettable Mardi Gras Murder Mystery night filled with suspense, entertainment, and delicious cuisine! Will you be an active participant or a bystander in this thrilling mystery? Choose your fate when purchasing your ticket!
New Orleans Buffet-Style dinner & appetizers
Beer & wine available for purchase
Costumes encouraged! Get ready for a night of mystery, intrigue, and festive fun!
Secure your spot now--tickets won't last long!
Follow this link to purchase your tickets:
https://www.eventeny.com/.../mardigrasmurdermysterydinne.../ Sponsored by Winchendon Parks & Recreation. At the HUB, 5 Summer Dr, Winchendon.

TUESDAY APRIL 8

Dementia Caregiver Support Group 5:30 p.m. Meets second Tuesday of each month. Facilitator: Olivia Companion, certified Dementia Practitioner and Montessori Dementia Care Professional. Free of charge. Call the Senior Center at 978-297-3155 to register. At Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave., Winchendon.

THURSDAY APRIL 10

FRIDAY APRIL 11

SATURDAY APRIL 12

Easter Egg Hunt & Photos with the Easter Bunny 11:00 a.m. Join us for an egg-citing day at Winchendon Community Park! Bring the whole family for a fun-filled Easter Egg Hunt and a chance to snap a picture with the Easter Bunny! Free to all. For more details contact Shaina at 978-297-3155 or scunningham@winchendon-ma.gov. Sponsored by Winchendon Parks & Recreation. At Winchendon Community Park, 86 Ingleside Dr.

SUNDAY APRIL 13

Pancake Breakfast with the Easter Bunny 8:00-11:00 a.m. Come and join Cub Scout Pack 193 for delicious pancakes and visit with the Easter Bunny! All proceeds will go to Cub Scout Pack 193. $10 per adult, $5 per child age 10 and under. At the Winchendon American Legion Post 193, 295 School St.

THURSDAY APRIL 17

THURSDAY APRIL 24

FRIDAY APRIL 25

SATURDAY APRIL 26

Open House Family Fun Day at the American Legion 12:00-5:00 p.m. Come see what we have to offer! Sponsored by the Winchendon American Legion Auxiliary Unit 193. At Winchendon American Legion Post 193, 295 School St.

TUESDAY APRIL 29

Dementia Care Training at the Senior Center 5:30 p.m. This month, "Forms and Stages of Dementia: Exploring the Present and Anticipating the Future." Trainer: Olivia Companion, certified Dementia Practitioner and Montessori Dementia Care Professional. Fee: $25. Call the Senior Center at 978-297-3155 to register. At Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave., Winchendon.

THURSDAY MAY 1

MONDAY MAY 5

Town Election 8:00 a.m.- 8:00 p.m. At Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave, Winchendon, 2nd floor auditorium.

WEDNESDAY MAY 7

THURSDAY MAY 8

TUESDAY MAY 13

THURSDAY MAY 15

MONDAY MAY 19

ANNUAL TOWN MEETING 7:00 p.m. At Murdock Middle High School Audtorium, 3 Memorial Dr, Winchendon.

TUESDAY MAY 27

Dementia Care Training at the Senior Center 5:30 p.m. This month, "Activities That Matter: Finding Joy and Purpose in Dementia Engagement." Trainer: Olivia Companion, certified Dementia Practitioner and Montessori Dementia Care Professional. Fee: $25. Call the Senior Center at 978-297-3155 to register. At Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave., Winchendon.

THURSDAY MAY 29

SATURDAY MAY 31

Operation Winchendon Cares "Military Apprecation Month" Drive 8:30-10:30 a.m. Drop off donations to fill packages for our Winchendon-associated military personnel, or stay and help stuff packages to send. At Winchendon American Legion Post 193, 295 School St.

WEDNESDAY JUNE 4

THURSDAY JUNE 5

SATURDAY JUNE 7

Founders Day 12:00-9:00 p.m. Join us for a fun-filled day of live music, delicious food, and family-friendly activities! Bring your family, friends, and lawn chairs for a full day of entertainment, local vendors, and community fun.
Live Music Schedule:
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM - Winchendon Winds
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM - Jared Moore
4:30 PM - 6:30 PM - BriezyJane and the Hurricane
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM - Anderson Daniels (Headliner)
Food Trucks & Local Vendors! Games & Activities for All Ages! Don't miss out on this amazing day of community celebration. See you there! At Winchendon Community Park, 86 Ingleside Dr.

TUESDAY JUNE 10

THURSDAY JUNE 12

SATURDAY JUNE 14

Solstice Fair through the day, times TBA. Road race, parade, vendors, town organizations, food and live music. On Central Street and around the Clark Memorial YMCA, 155 Central St, Winchendon.

SUNDAY JUNE 15

Winchendon Winds Concert Band Performance 2:00 p.m. Free and open to all. At Unitarian Universalist Church of Winchendon, 126 Central St.

SUNDAY JUNE 22

Winchendon Winds Concert Band Performance 2:00 p.m. Free and open to all. At Unitarian Universalist Church of Winchendon, 126 Central St.

TUESDAY JUNE 24

Dementia Care Training at the Senior Center 5:30 p.m. This month, "Dementia Challenges: A Montessori Approach to Success." Trainer: Olivia Companion, certified Dementia Practitioner and Montessori Dementia Care Professional. Fee: $25. Call the Senior Center at 978-297-3155 to register. At Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave., Winchendon.

THURSDAY JUNE 26

SATURDAY JUNE 28

Food Truck Festival and Battle of the Bands 12:00-7:00 p.m. Get ready for a day of great food, live music, and local creativity at the Winchendon Food Truck Festival! Featuring over 15 incredible food trucks serving up a diverse selection of ethnic cuisine, this festival is a paradise for food lovers. Enjoy craft beer and wine, browse unique handmade goods from local crafters and artisans, and experience the energy of our Battle of the Bands, where talented musicians compete for the top spot. Don't miss this ultimate community celebration of food, music, and fun! Free admission! Sponsored by WooTrucks and Winchendon Parks & Recreation. At G.A.R. Park, Murdock Ave and Spruce St, Winchendon.

SUNDAY JUNE 29

Winchendon Winds Concert Band Performance 2:00 p.m. Free and open to all. At Unitarian Universalist Church of Winchendon, 126 Central St.

FRIDAY JULY 11

G.A.R. Park Concert Featuring The Ed Sullivans 5:00-7:00 p.m. The Ed Sullivans - Bringing Classic Rock to Life! Get ready for the best of the British Invasion & American Rock from the '60s & '70s! Band Members:
Donnie Sadowski - Drums & Vocals
Tom Yates - Guitar & Vocals
"Arizona" Doug Urquhart - Bass & Vocals
Follow us for updates, live performances, and classic rock nostalgia! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063503257588. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theedsullivansbandworceste8018. Free to all, bring your own lawn chairs or blankets. Sponsored by Winchendon Parks & Recreation. At G.A.R. Park, Murdock Ave and Grove St, Winchendon.

FRIDAY AUGUST 8

G.A.R. Park Concert Featuring The Faceless Hobos 5:00-7:00 p.m. Meet The Faceless Hobos - a duo born out of pure passion for music! Pat Townsend and Dave Romanowski first started playing together in 2019 but, like many, were disrupted by the pandemic. However, their love for music kept them going, even jamming in a freezing garage with gloves on! Fast forward a few years, and they've made their way onto the local music scene, performing at open mics and small gigs--always with the goal of having fun and sharing the stage with fellow musicians. You might even catch Maggie Neff joining them for a jam! Their style leans toward Americana, influenced by legends like Guy Clark, John Prine, and Hayes Carll, with a few original tunes in the mix. Free to all, bring your own lawn chairs or blankets. Sponsored by Winchendon Parks & Recreation. At G.A.R. Park, Murdock Ave and Grove St, Winchendon.

SATURDAY OCTOBER 11

Fall Fest 2025 10:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. On Central Street from CVS to Cumberland Farms--vendors, live music, demonstrations, food, local businesses, crafters and much more! https://www.townofwinchendon.com/9th-annual-winchendon-fall-festival for updates and information. 2025 application for vendors is available at https://www.townofwinchendon.com/9th-annual-winchendon-fall-festival/pages/2025-fall-festival-vendor-application

ONGOING

SUNDAYS

Bowling 12:00-5:00 p.m. $25 for a lane per hour for up to 5 people. At The HUB (Winchendon CAC), 5 Summer Dr.

MONDAYS

Pickleball 9:30 a.m.- 1:00 p.m. At the Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave., Winchendon. 978-297-3155.

Chair Yoga with Paula 11:00 a.m. $5 suggested donation per class. This class is suitable for all abilities. At the Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave., Winchendon. 978-297-3155.

Friends Book Sale 1:00-3:00 p.m. The Friends of the Library Book Sale is back! Browse a wide selection of used books, DVDs, puzzles, music and more that the whole family will love. At Beals Memorial Library, 50 Pleasant St., Winchendon. We are also happy to share that we are now accepting DONATIONS! Item acceptance is at the discretion of the Friends. All items not accepted WILL be returned to the donor. Donations will ONLY be accepted during book sale hours. Donations should not be deposited in the Library's book drop-off box.
We will NOT accept the following:
* Textbooks of any kind
* Encyclopedias
* Dictionaries
* Any item that contains obsolete information (i.e. medical books)
* Any item in poor condition (scratched or damaged)
* VHS or Cassette Tapes

AA Meeting 7:30 p.m. Open meeting, all are welcome. UU Church of Winchendon, 126 Central Street.

Lego Club for Kids at the Beals 4:00-5:00 p.m. Join us for fun-filled afternoons building Lego creations straight from your imagination! For for information, contact the library at 978-297-0300. At Beals Memorial Library, 50 Pleasant St., Winchendon.

TUESDAYS

Pickleball 9:30 a.m. At the Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave., Winchendon. 978-297-3155.

Family Friendly Story Hour at the Chapel 10:00-11:00 a.m. For preschool age children. Parents must stay with their children for the story time. At the Chapel Downtown, 286 Central St, Winchendon.

Strength Training and Fitness Classes with Mary Lee 9:15-10:15 a.m. through Nov 7. Beginner class at 9:15 a.m., Intermediate at 9:45 a.m. Get fit with these fun exercise classes that are customized for all abilities. $5 suggested donation. Sign up online at www.townofwinchendon.com/council-aging or call the Senior Center. Rides available upon request. At the Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave., Winchendon. 978-297-3155.

Line Dancing! with Mary Lee 10:30-11:30 a.m. from Sept 5 through Nov 14. $5 Suggested Donation. No one will be turned away if unable to pay. Register at www.townofwinchendon.com/council-aging. At the Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave., Winchendon. 978-297-3155.

Yoga Classes with Paula Lashua-Brisbois 4:30-5:30 p.m. All skill levels welcome, mats and blocks available if needed. Open to adults and teens. $10 per class. For more info, contact 978-297-0300, bealsmemoriallibrary@gmail.com or visit https://www.bealslibrary.org. At Beals Memorial Library, 50 Pleasant St., Winchendon.

WEDNESDAYS

Pickleball 9:30 a.m.- 12:00 p.m. At the Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave., Winchendon. 978-297-3155.

Ukelele Ground 10:00 a.m. At the Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave., Winchendon. 978-297-3155.

Zumbini 11:00 a.m. At the Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave., Winchendon. 978-297-3155.

Bingo! 12:30 p.m. At the Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave., Winchendon. 978-297-3155.

Meet-Up With the Kiwanis 6:30 p.m. 2ND AND 4TH WEDNESDAYS EACH MONTH. All are welcome! Come join in community projects, make new friends, make your community better, have some fun! Younger folks welcome. For more information, call Cailte Kelly, 978-413-9930. Hosted by Kiwanis of Winchendon MA. At the Clark Memorial YMCA Community Room (in new gymnastics building down by the bike path), 155 Central St., Winchendon.

THURSDAYS

Pickleball 9:30 a.m.- 1:00 p.m. At the Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave., Winchendon. 978-297-3155.

CFCE Preschool Playgroup at the Beals 1:00-2:00 p.m. Join us for an afternoon of free play, a craft, story time and music & movement. This program is in partnership with the Winchendon CFCE. Contact the library at 978-297-0300 for more information. At Beals Memorial Library, 50 Pleasant St., Winchendon.

Friends Book Sale 5:00-7:00 p.m. The Friends of the Library Book Sale is back! Browse a wide selection of used books, DVDs, puzzles, music and more that the whole family will love. At Beals Memorial Library, 50 Pleasant St., Winchendon. We are also happy to share that we are now accepting DONATIONS! Item acceptance is at the discretion of the Friends. All items not accepted WILL be returned to the donor. Donations will ONLY be accepted during book sale hours. Donations should not be deposited in the Library's book drop-off box.
We will NOT accept the following:
* Textbooks of any kind
* Encyclopedias
* Dictionaries
* Any item that contains obsolete information (i.e. medical books)
* Any item in poor condition (scratched or damaged)
* VHS or Cassette Tapes

FRIDAYS

Pickleball 9:30 a.m.- 1:00 p.m. At the Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave., Winchendon. 978-297-3155.

Story Time at the Beals 10:00 a.m. Join us for a fun half hour of stories with Ms. Kristin and Ms. Melissa. This program is in partnership with the Winchendon Community Playgroups & CFCE. Contact the library at 978-297-0300 for more information. At Beals Memorial Library, 50 Pleasant St., Winchendon. Starting Feb 16

Bowling at the HUB 5:00-9:00 p.m. $25 Lane/Hour/Up to 5 People, and shoes included! Sunshine cafe selling snack and beverages Beer and wine for sale. 100% proceeds go to fundraise for the CAC programs and services. At The HUB (Winchendon CAC), 5 Summer Dr.

SATURDAYS

Shopping Transportation to Rindge for Seniors 9:15 a.m. Leaves from the Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave., Winchendon. Must reserve your ride one week in advance. Call 978-297-3155.

Shopping Transportation to Athol for Seniors 2:00 p.m. Leaves from the Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave., Winchendon. Must reserve your ride one week in advance. Call 978-297-3155.

Friends Book Sale 10:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m. The Friends of the Library Book Sale is back! Browse a wide selection of used books, DVDs, puzzles, music and more that the whole family will love. At Beals Memorial Library, 50 Pleasant St., Winchendon. We are also happy to share that we are now accepting DONATIONS! Item acceptance is at the discretion of the Friends. All items not accepted WILL be returned to the donor. Donations will ONLY be accepted during book sale hours. Donations should not be deposited in the Library's book drop-off box.
We will NOT accept the following:
* Textbooks of any kind
* Encyclopedias
* Dictionaries
* Any item that contains obsolete information (i.e. medical books)
* Any item in poor condition (scratched or damaged)
* VHS or Cassette Tapes

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