The Winchendon Courier

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

Week of February 27 to March 6, 2025

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

This Week's Winchendon News

Bitter Cold, Ice Everywhere, Breaking Pipes--It's Been a Tough Winter for Toy Towners and the DPW

by Inanna Arthen
After a very long, dry fall and a pleasantly seasonal holiday season, 2025 brought Winter to Winchendon with a vengeance. January saw whole stretches of days when the high temperature didn't get above freezing, with brief respites of a day or two before dropping back into the deep freeze. Then the storms started--10 of them, so far, since January 11. Most of them didn't drop a lot of precipitation--no "Blizzard of 2025" to go on the record books.

The nastiest storm struck from Saturday night, February 15 through Sunday, February 16, dropping such a varied range of precipitation that neighboring towns had different mixes of snow, sleet, freezing rain and rain. But all were followed by an immediate hard freeze-up as high temperatures barely reached the 20s. In Winchendon, about five inches of snow was topped by a solid inch of sleet and three to four more inches of snow. Residents, businesses and town crews were still breaking up and moving frozen snow banks and thick ice layers on sidewalks and parking lots for days after the storm. Some residents found it challenging to clear access for heating oil delivery trucks. On Tuesday the 18th, the Growing Places Mobile Market at the Senior Center was delayed by a half hour because their van, in Leominster, was encased in ice.

It was a lucky break that this whopper was at the beginning of school vacation week. Many of the storms were on weekends--the Winchendon Public Schools has only called one snow day this year, according to Executive Assistant to Superintendent of Schools Renee Lupien.

But large or small, every storm has required a full response by the Department of Public Works to make sure the roads were safe and clear. The Courier sat down with Director of the Department of Public Works Brian Croteau to ask how the DPW has been keeping up with this very busy season.

Although residents and businesses have scrambled to find ice-melt products in retail stores, Mr. Croteau said, "We've been fully stocked with salt. We don't use sand due to MS4 regulations by the state. So all our paved roads are salted and our dirt roads are sanded. We've had no shortfalls. The company that we use through the state contract has supplied us sufficiently and bent over backwards to make sure we have enough and what we need."

This has come at a cost, however. Mr. Croteau said, "We are 100 percent in overtime. We've expended our budget for snow and ice. We're into a deficit budget now."

Winchendon has 130 to 140 miles of roads to treat and plow in every storm. The DPW has 15 pieces of equipment that are out working for the duration of each plowable storm event. During the February 15-16 storm, DPW plows made three complete passes of every mile of road, due to the length of the storm and the mix of precipitation.

The trucks aren't just out after the fact. Roads are also pre-treated before storms begin--which residents can see in the form of parallel lines of material on the pavement. "That's salt brine," Mr. Croteau explained. "So salt brine is diluted salt, it creates a barrier between the road and the snow that's falling so the snow doesn't become hard packed, which allows the drivers to clean it up faster. It's also far cheaper to make salt brine than it is to put rock salt down. So we see a significant cost saving. We also try to do salt brine on straight time and not overtime. Once you apply it, it lasts 72 hours and it's a one-person operation. We do all the long roads and all the main roads. We don't do all the side streets because they don't see much traffic, so it doesn't really serve a purpose."

Asked what the biggest challenges have been, Mr. Croteau said, "I would say it has to be for the guys with the long hours, multiple days, storms every three days. Other than that, it's pretty turnkey. Keeping equipment on the road. The availability of parts can be challenging, but we've worked through the hurdles."

Mr. Croteau added, "I'm just very grateful for the crew that I have. They do a tremendous job for the community, and the community should be proud to have them taking care of the roads."

But winter's impact this year hasn't only been above ground. In just the past two weeks, the Water Department, DPW and Police Department have responded to two water main breaks on Main Street near Lickity Splitz. On Wednesday, February 19 at around 1:00 a.m., a "catastrophic" break closed the road and sent water into adjacent homes whose foundations are lower than the level of the road. On Tuesday, February 25 another break occurred in the same general area.

Mr. Croteau explained, "That spot sees the brunt of any pressure changes. It's downhill. It's at the turn before it goes down Baldwinville State Road or goes up the hill [to Old Centre]. It's an [asbestos concrete] main so it's a little more difficult, but it's the changing of temperatures. We had three and a half feet of frost. So it's putting a different pressure. We haven't had three and a half feet of frost in quite a few years now. So with the change of pressures in the frost, it's going after some of the weaker pipe. The piping is not getting any younger." The six-inch pipes were probably installed in the 60s or 70s, Mr. Croteau estimated, so they're at least 50 years old now. "It's not sustainable for that style of main," he said.

Mr. Croteau said he would like to thank the public for their patience throughout this winter.

Powell Stone & Gravel Appears in Public Hearing Before the BOS for Earth Removal Project on Teel Road

by Inanna Arthen
At their meeting on Monday, February 24, the Board of Selectmen held a public hearing for the earth removal and stone crushing project proposed by Powell Stone & Gravel for a property on Teel Road. This was the last step in a process that began in spring of 2024. After the hearing the Board voted to approve the permit for the operation.

At the beginning of the hearing, Board Chair Rick Ward stated that the permit approval had been removed from an earlier Board of Selectmen agenda because he felt it should be scheduled as a public hearing, based on Article VI of the town bylaws.

Steve Powell, co-owner of Powell Stone & Gravel with his brother Jeff, and Wesley Flis, Engineering Project Manager with McCarty Engineering Inc., appeared before the Board to present their application. Powell Stone & Gravel had already appeared before the Planning Board, Zoning Board of Appeals and Conservation Commission. The Planning Board issued a storm water permit for the project. The ZBA issued a special permit for the two uses of earth removal and stone crushing. The Conservation Commission issued an order of conditions.

Mr. Flis recapped the history and facts of the project. The property is two parcels totaling 90.9 acres on the south side of Teel Road, east of Rte 140 and on the Ashburnham town line. Historically, it has been used for earth and gravel removal for some years. Mr. Powell has co-owned the property with another person, and has bought out their interest in it. Now he wants to re-establish the permitting in his name only.

The project going forward will "disturb no greater than 20 acres" of the 91 acres, and not all at the same time. About two more acres will be utilized for access roads and drainage infrastructure on the site. Powell has been working with Town Engineer Pat Wood throughout the process and has adjusted their plans to meet town regulations. "The barge is proposed in six phases," Mr. Flis said. "The phases, the greatest phase is just under five acres, and the smallest phase is just under three acres. The intent here is obviously, under the regulations that the town has is not to have any any more than five acres under construction at one time."

"We still will continue to do revisions to the plans as further information gets back to Pat on the groundwater depth up there. And so we actually currently are doing more groundwater monitoring on the property, and this spring will be a key time to do that testing, once we can see that seasonal high ground water table out there and get that information back to your town engineer," Mr. Flis said. Powell will be improving the wetland crossing on the site, replacing a culvert in accordance with Conservation Commission standards, and putting in a driveway. There will be drainage devices and detention basins put in place.

Powell will also be making improvements to Teel Road itself, paving it from Rte 140. As part of the project, a bond will be put up with the town for the amounts of $179,756.51 for gravel removal, and $399,098.70 for storm water work, for Phase 1. Each Phase will have its own bonds in place. The bond is a surety to protect the town if a project isn't completed and the town is left having to spend money to finish the work or clean up the site.

Mr. Powell said, "This typically isn't how it goes...because the town will never own the land. So anything we've bonded in the past would have been an industrial road that the town will take over, and that's what that bond covers. We've never seen this. Usually it's a reclamation bond to make sure that we come in and we loam and seed and we follow the plan...to protect the town from the land becoming barren with no grass or no trees. So we are bonding gravel roads. We're bonding the tree clearing and stuff like that, which was unusual, but we're willing to do it."

Asked what their timeline was, Mr. Powell said they had a total of 300 acres and they can only work on 20 acres at a time. They've been working in Westminster for 19 years. "So I would say, the time frame, we're going to be here a long time." The permits will be reviewed regularly.

Conditions include illuminated stop signs at the bike path, other signage and a rule that no trucks be parked on the site overnight.

Resident Matthew Anderson, who lives on King Phillip Way, rose to ask whether a noise assessment of the project had been done, since he lives 2.2 miles away from the site.

Mr. Powell responded, "We're governed by [the U.S. Department of Labor Mine Safety and Health Administration], which is the federal mining Association, and they come out every year, and they put monitors on our operators for dust and noise, and we've never even come close to anywhere near the legal limits. This is also industrial land, I don't know if everybody knows that, but it's an industrial property, and the equipment is, although it's trucks and loaders and stuff, 2.2 miles away, I really don't think you'll hear it." They will not be using any explosives, he stated. No air quality assessment was required by the Massachusetts Environmental Protection Agency.

Carolyn Sellars, a resident of Ashburnham who owns property in Winchendon, rose to ask about the number of trucks that will be entering and leaving the property, and the impact on traffic. Mr. Powell said that the maximum allowed is 150 trips, or 75 trucks entering and leaving, each day. This would be seasonal; at times of the year like now, activity would be much less.

Ms. Sellars asked about the size of trucks that Powell would be using. Mr. Powell explained, "So they're triaxial dump trucks and trailer dumps. We use both. They're mostly our own trucks. You know, once in a while, a local customer will come in and pick up, but for the most part, they're all our trucks. They all have GPS on them. They all have dash cams on them. To monitor the speed, we put geo fences around for a given speed. If you say you don't want trucks taking a left, we'll put a geo fence on it. If any truck goes left, the dispatcher knows, the truck's immediately notified. The trucks actually get a monthly grade. The system grades them for hard turning, speeding. It's pretty intense. And we do it for our protection, and obviously the public's protection."

Ms. Sellars pointed out that Rte. 140 is considered one of the most dangerous roads in the region, and she asked if warning signs could be put at the intersection to let drivers know trucks were entering and exiting there. Mr. Powell stated that Rte. 140 is a state highway, "so there's only so much the state will let you do, and we have a lot of history with that. On Route 2A in Westminister, we actually tried to put in a light. We went through and spent the money, did traffic studies, and the state basically has a right to say 'you're not stopping traffic on our road.' So with that said, we could investigate. We would love to have a truck entering sign, and we would love to see the traffic slow down, which we'll do, if the state lets us, we'll put one out there, anything to help make our life easier. We'll do the flashing stoplights at the bike path." He assured Ms. Sellars and the Board, "The trucks, when they leave, they go through all kinds of residential neighborhoods, some that have worse traffic situations than this and they're all professionals. And they, like anyone that leaves here, it's their job to drive within the rules of the road."

Ms. Sellars expanded on Mr. Anderson's concerns about noise. Mr. Powell promised "best management practices" but added, "we have newer equipment. It is really quiet. I'll be shocked if we get a noise complaint, I'll be shocked."

Following the comments by Mr. Anderson and Ms. Sellars, the Board voted to close the hearing, and voted unanimously to approve the permit, with surety bonds to be filed with the Town Treasurer.

Beals Memorial Library to host Legislative Breakfast March 13

State Senator Jo Comerford and State Representatives Jon Zlotnik, and Susannah Whipps will be joined by State Representative Kimberly Ferguson at a Legislative Breakfast hosted by the Beals Memorial Library on Thursday, March 13. The public is invited to attend.

The Beals Memorial Library in Winchendon invites the public to a Legislative Breakfast to advocate for statewide library funding on Thursday, March 13 at 8:00 AM. The breakfast will be a chance to speak directly to our law makers about the importance of the commonwealth's public libraries, and a wonderful opportunity to gain a better understanding of library funding.

State Senator Jo Comerford, and State Representatives Jon Zlotnik, Susannah Whipps and Kimberly Ferguson will be our guest speakers. In addition to our legislators, Jeanette Lundgren from the Central & Western Mass Resource Sharing, Tressa Santillo from the Mass Library System, Karen Traub from the Mass Board of Library Commissioners, and Courtney Andree from the Mass Center for the Book, will explain their library funding priorities in the state budget for Fiscal Year 2026.

The breakfast will also feature Winchendon town officials, trustees, patrons, and others as they testify as to how libraries empower our communities. Additionally, the event will highlight the Beals Library's work in supporting autistic, neuro-divergent, and special needs children and their families with our "Seeing Beyond the Spectrum" Inclusion Initiative.

The library is located at 50 Pleasant Street, Winchendon, MA. Light breakfast and refreshments be served at 8:00 AM. The conversation follows at 8:30 AM.

The Library welcomes folks from Winchendon and surrounding towns to this public event. Seating is limited. Please register online at bealslibrary.org/legislativebreakfast, or call us at 978-297-0300.

Winchendon PD Offering R.A.D. Class for Women

The Winchendon Police Department will be offering a R.A.D (rape aggression defense) class starting in March 2025. Free to all women.

No prior experience is needed as we will teach basic skills that can be applied by everyone.

Class size is limited to 20 so sign up early with a dispatcher at the Winchendon Police Department. Dates: March 25, 27, April 1 and 3.

Attendance to all four classes is required for successful completion. Age requirement is 14 years old accompanied by an adult/guardian with a signed permission slip.

Time: 6:00 p.m.- 9:00 p.m.

Location: The first class will be held at the Winchendon Police Department in the training room. The remaining classes will be held at the Memorial School in the gym.

Any questions can be directed to:

Officer Tracy Flagg Tflagg@townofwinchendon.com
or
Officer Jim Wironen Jwironen@townofwinchendon.com
978-297-1212

Winchendon Garden Club Scholarship Applications Open

The members of the Winchendon Garden Club have appropriated $2,000 which can be awarded for scholarships in 2025. These will be awarded to residents of Winchendon who are engaged in agricultural or environmental studies (see application for details). Applications must be postmarked no later than April 30, 2025.

Complete details and an application form are at WGC-2025-scholarships.pdf.

Community Connector

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

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 28

Trivia at the HUB 6:00-8:00 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.

SATURDAY MARCH 1

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.

Mardi Gras Madness 8:00 p.m.- 12:00 a.m. Looking to get out and have fun! WE ARE CELEBRATING MARDI GRAS! Rocking the night away with New Release! Wristbands $15 each. Prizes for best dressed, most beads and so much more. All proceeds go to Department Children & Youth program-Feronia Forward. Sponsored by American Legion Auxiliary Unit 193. At Winchendon American Legion Post 193, 295 School St.

WEDNESDAY MARCH 5

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 MARCH 6

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.

Our Neighbor's Kitchen Dinner 5:15 p.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church. Served in the Parish Hall. This week the menu is Spaghetti & Meatballs, Salad, and Desserts b Ann C., Ann M. & Patty. Free-will donation $2 per person, $5 per family; no one turned away. 52 Spruce Street, Winchendon.

SATURDAY MARCH 8

Winchendon Firefighters Relief Association Meat Raffle 7:00 p.m. Come on down to our 2nd annual Firefighters Relief Association Meat Raffle! There will be assorted meats and lobsters raffled, raffle baskets and a large raffle item of Boston Bruins tickets LOGE seats! Bar will be open and some snacks will be available! At Winchendon American Legion Post 193, 295 School St.

THURSDAY MARCH 13

2025 Legislative Breakfast 8:00 a.m. The Beals Library hosts this free event, open to the public. Guest speakers include State Senator Jo Comerford, State Representatives Jon Zlotnik and Susannah Whipps, CW-MARS Executive Director Jeannette Lundgren, Mass. Library System Electronic Resources Coordinator Tressa Santillo and Mass. Board of Library Commissioner Karen Traub. The Beals Library will share its autism inclusion initiative and promote the work all libraries do to empower their communities. Breakfast at 8:00 a.m., conversation starts at 8:30 a.m. in library auditorium. RSVP at https://bealslibrary.org/legislativebreakfast or call 978-297-0300. At Beals Memorial Library, 50 Pleasant St, Winchendon.

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 is Hawaiian chicken over white rice. Free-will donation $2 per person, $5 per family; no one turned away. 126 Central Street.

FRIDAY MARCH 14

SUNDAY MARCH 16

March Crafternoon at the Senior Center 1:00 p.m. Get ready to welcome spring! This month, we're diving into nature-inspired crafting as we create Wood Slice Floral Coasters--a beautiful and functional addition to your home or the perfect handmade gift. $25.00 Pre-registration, $30.00 at the door includes Step-by-Step Instruction--Our instructor will guide you through designing and decorating wood slice coasters with a floral theme; All Supplies Provided--We'll provide wood slices, paints, brushes, and embellishments to help you create your perfect coaster set. Creative Freedom--Customize your coasters with your favorite flowers, colors, and designs--let your imagination bloom! Register at https://www.clover.com/pay-widgets/b289f036-4e76-4428-a75b-4dc71da13d77 Sponsored by Winchendon Parks & Recreation Commission in partnership with The Painted Goat. At Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave, Winchendon.

THURSDAY MARCH 20

SATURDAY MARCH 22

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.

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.

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

WEDNESDAY APRIL 2

THURSDAY APRIL 3

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.

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.

THURSDAY APRIL 10

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.

FRIDAY APRIL 11

THURSDAY APRIL 17

THURSDAY APRIL 24

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.

FRIDAY APRIL 25

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

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.

THURSDAY MAY 15

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.

MONDAY MAY 19

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

THURSDAY MAY 29

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.

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.

THURSDAY JUNE 12

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.

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.

THURSDAY JUNE 26

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.

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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