This Week's Winchendon News

FinCom Holds Public Hearing on Warrant Articles for Special Town Meeting

Finance Committee members Tom Kane (Chair), Charles C. Corts and Monique Connor consider Article 2
Photo copyright Town of Winchendon

Winchendon Fire Chief Tom Smith responds to a question about Article 2
Photo copyright Town of Winchendon

by Inanna Arthen
On Tuesday, November 18, the Winchendon Finance Committee held a public hearing on the Warrant for the Special Town Meeting scheduled for December 1. The Town Meeting was called to ask voters to approve a debt exclusion (a form of Proposition 2-1/2 override) for borrowing funds for the proposed Fire Station Addition and Renovation Project. While the Warrant was open for additional articles to be considered from October 7 through October 22, and articles could have been requested by town departments and the public, only one other article will be placed before voters at Town Meeting. It asks voters to approve adoption of a lodging excise tax to bring in additional revenue for the town.

The discussion began with Article 1, the lodging tax. It reads, "To see if the Town will vote to accept the provision of G.L. c. 65G, section 3A authorizing the imposition of a local excise tax upon the transfer of occupancy of any room or rooms in a bed and breakfast establishment, hotel, lodging house, short-term rental, or motel in Town at a rate of 6% of the total amount of rent for each such occupancy to take effect on the first day of July 2026."

Town Manager Bill McKinney explained, "So right now there are three local option taxes that towns can assess: cannabis, meals and room occupancy. We have adopted two out of the three, and this would adopt the third one. When I contacted the Department of Revenue to ask approximately how much revenue that would mean to the town, they said it was about $30,000 a year based on the current bookings that they have. Anyone in town that is currently paying taxes to the state, you know, as a lodging, whether it be Airbnb or the one motel, [DOR is] collecting that revenue anyway. So they know how much we would collect in getting that additional 6 percent."

In response to a question from a FinCom member, Mr. McKinney added, "Similar to the meals tax and the cannabis excise tax, is that all that [tax] money that gets collected by those businesses, gets remitted to the state, and then the state gives us our portion. So there's no additional work that we have to do."

There were no further questions from the public or FinCom members about Article 1, so the Board moved on to Article 2, the debt exclusion for the fire station. It reads, "To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, and/or borrow the sum of Sixteen Million Six Hundred Thirty-Two Thousand Four Hundred Ninety-Nine Dollars ($16,632,499) for the purpose of constructing, equipping and furnishing a Fire Station Addition and Renovation project, including all costs incidental and related thereto; provided, however, that if the Town votes hereunder to borrow funds for this purpose, such vote shall be contingent upon approval by the voters at an election that the amounts required to repay the debt and interest on such borrowing shall be excluded from the limitations on the tax levy imposed by Proposition 2-1/2, so called, pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 59, Cection 21C(k)."

Voting yes on this article approves spending the funds for the project but not the override for the debt exclusion. That will be placed before voters at a ballot vote after Town Meeting, and only if that vote passes can the funds be borrowed for the fire station project.

Winchendon Fire Chief Tom Smith came forward to explain the article. "At this point, we've done quite a few presentations," he said. "I'd like to defer any questions that I can answer for you folks that help you make your possible recommendation for or against the project. I did meet with [Fincom Chair Tom Kane] and the Town Manager and I spoke today, and the Town Manager did reach out to the town's senior financial advisor to make sure that on the tax impact that we presented to the people and present to you does include the interest on the $16.6 million in the article, nothing would change on that. That is still the amount that we would be borrowing." He went on to say that if residents had questions about the specific impact the debt exclusion would have on their homes and tax bills, the department would do their best to "walk them through it."

FinCom member Monique Connor asked, "This total amount with a debt exclusion, do we have to pay on this amount of money at the beginning, or do we wait until the end of the project? Because I know that we're going to be going for grants, and there's rebates, and there's a whole list of other things that can save us money on this. So the question is, how is that going to all play in when, instead of 16 million, it will be 14 million."

Mr. McKinney responded that it depended on timing for grants. "We'd have to get them fairly quickly, because it depends when we go out to borrow. So once we borrow, we're locked into that borrow. So depending on when the first expense would be incurred. If it was approved at Town Meeting and then approved at the ballot, and let's say the expenses didn't start until July, that gives us almost the full fiscal year to actually do the borrowing. So if we were able to get any grants or anything along the way, that would reduce how much we'd have to actually borrow."

Mr. Kane said that he'd been looking at the numbers, and realized that "the number was based on the total amount of money that's being asked to be borrowed, $16.6 million. What it didn't include was the cost of financing. Didn't include the debt payment. Didn't include the interest. When you factor that in, the number doubles from about $16 million to $32 million." This is similar to a home mortgage, he explained, where "by the time you finish paying for it, you've paid for twice the actual cost of the house." This impacted the annual payments that the town would be making, and which would determine the increase in property owners' tax bills.

Chief Smith explained at some length that the actual cost of the project itself, the $16.6 million, was as accurate as they could make it, and had been developed by many different people involved with the project planning. The project cost hasn't changed, he said, it was the borrowing cost and interest that was another matter. "We did go before a number of different eyes. It's gone through four or five different boards and that. And it was picked up on, and I contacted the financial analyst, financial advisor for the town, and brought the numbers forward on that."

Mr. McKinney said, "I just reached out to [the financial advisors] and said, Okay, this is the cost of the project. Could you run the numbers? Whatever you estimate on the interest rate for us would be...they wouldn't have seen this. I reached out because I knew that the public would want to know what the estimated impact would be. So that's why I want to find out, okay, what would it be? So I asked them to run the numbers on that 16 plus million dollars, and that's what they came back. That's why I sent it over. That's when you had brought up as well that the number that had been out there did not include the interest."

"It doesn't change the borrowing amount, it changes the repayment," Chief Smith said.

Ms. Connor said, "I'm concerned, because I just feel working on big projects that I've done, I worry that there's not enough input of getting more grants, and I understand that in order to get a grant, you have to make sure you have funding. That's why I'm saying there's an opportunity to get multiple other grants for the fire department, for the building and the infrastructure and all that. And if we don't move forward on this, we're not going to be able to get them anyways. So we're kind of stuck."

Chief Smith said that the project has "contingencies built in" and he hopes the actual cost comes in at "nowhere near" the $16.6 million. "I'd like to see us come up with one or $2 million in grants, rebates, refunds, Green Communities, anything we can look at, we're certainly going to push to reduce the cost of the project."

Mr. McKinney said that the bond (the borrowing) can wait until as late as June 30 of the following year, as long as it's within the year that the expenses are incurred. There is a large window of time to find grants and other funding. Also, when the project goes out to bid, the actual amount borrowed depends on what the bids come in at, and those would be offset by any grants. "They come in less, we only borrow what we need," he said. "We're not locked in to what we authorize. We're locked in to what we need to borrow."

FinCom member Doug Delay raised the question of the bids coming in much higher than the $16.6 million amount. Mr. McKinney said in that case they would have to go back to Town Meeting and ask to borrow more.

Chief Smith said that while some material costs for the project are projected to go up, contractors are tending to charge less because there is more competition in the field. The two seem to be offsetting each other in the trends they're using to project future costs.

There was some discussion about grants. Mr. McKinney affirmed that there were no restrictions or requirements on what funding sources the department and the town could apply to. Chief Smith said that he can't estimate any exact amount for grants that might be available, but he enjoys writing them, and the department has brought in over $2.6 million in grants over the past 10-12 years. "I try not to rely on a grant, because you never get it when you rely on it. I think it's only fair to people to give them the amount and then be able to reduce down. I don't want to say, is this [amount] expecting that we're going to get something that I can't guarantee."

Mr. Kane proposed waiting to vote at Annual Town Meeting in May, because he felt it would give them more time to get the financial information (regarding the interest amount and impact on taxes) out to people.

Chief Smith replied at length to this, explaining that costs would only keep going up, and that many people have come to the information sessions and Fire Station open houses, to see the conditions in the station and ask questions. They have a lot of information now. "Let's let the people decide on whether they want to invest in the community or not," he said.

Mr. McKinney said the earliest that the ballot election can be called after the Town Meeting vote is 35 days. If Article 2 passes at Town Meeting, the Board of Selectmen can call the election at their next meeting on December 8, and the election would be around the end of January, 2026. It could be scheduled up to 90 days out.

Resident Maureen Ward rose to comment that later in the spring would be more inclusive for residents who leave town for the winter months. Also, she referred to news that the state was looking at funding to help fire departments make improvements to their fire stations, because so many of them, statewide, were in desperate need of repair and updating. Would Winchendon still be eligible for that funding if it had already embarked on a project on its own?

Chief Smith said he knew about that proposal, and that he thought the town would be eligible "as long as you've got a shovel-ready project and moving forward." However, there are still no definite criteria for this proposed funding.

Asked what he thought about postponing the Town Meeting vote to the spring, Mr. McKinney said, "I think the reason why the Board of Selectmen wanted to go forward with this was because of the costs. Just keeps escalating and escalating, and the longer it gets put off, the more expensive it gets. When this project was brought forward years ago, before I was here, it was half the cost for the same amount of space, and now it's doubled. It will just continue to go up. So the sooner we're able to let the residents decide whether to move forward or not, we'll be able to lock in the best possible price we can get."

Resident Rick Ward came forward to say there would never be a good time to ask voters for money. He reviewed some of the shortcomings and problems with the current station, especially as it related to health hazards to the firefighters themselves from contaminants and carcinogens. They were all "putting their lives on the line for us," Mr. Ward said. "We've already got a schedule. Let's do it now. Let the public speak. They are well aware of this. Just because they're not here, they're watching on TV tonight, they are watching this, and they will be at the Town Meeting...This is not a money issue. It's a safety issue for these firefighters. So again, let's move this forward. On December 1, let the people speak one way or the other. Then the chief knows he can move forward with the project or he wants to go to plan B, if he has to, that's the call of the public. Don't deny the public the time to put this to rest once and for all."

Following this, the FinCom closed the public hearing portion of the meeting and voted on their recommendations for the two articles. Members voted to recommend Article 1, the lodging tax, 5-0. Members voted to recommend Article 2 4-1, with member Charles C. Corts voting no.

The Town Meeting Warrant may be viewed or downloaded on the town website at www.townofwinchendon.com/DocumentCenter/View/1571/Special-Town-Meeting-Warrant-December-1-2025.

For those who would like to ask Chief Smith questions or see the station, there will be an open house on Saturday, November 29 at the Fire Station, 405 Central Street, from 10:00 a.m. until noon. Tours of the station will be given and there will be opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

Toy Town Christmas Celebrates Local Businesses With Hometown Holiday Tour

by Inanna Arthen
The first annual Toy Town Christmas Holiday Tour launched on November 15, 2025 and will continue until December 13, blending its holiday spirit with other holiday-themed events all around Winchendon. Inspired by the long-running "Country Roads Christmas Holiday Tour," Toy Town Christmas was created by local residents Nicole Roberts, Andrew Beauvais and Michele Comeau as a way Winchendon could celebrate their own locally-owned enterprises, both old and brand new.

Visit participating businesses during these four weeks and collect a stamp from each one on your "passport", which you can also pick up at any of these stores or locations. Collect five stamps and you can be entered into a drawing for an item from one of the shops. If you visit all sixteen shops, you get a chance to win the Grand Prize!

The Toy Town Christmas Team is highlighting a local business each day on their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583300776336, but you can visit the shops in any order (and as many times!) as you want.

For more information and a calendar of related events, see the Toy Town Christmas Website at www.toytownchristmas.com

Photo copyright Toy Town Christmas

Photo copyright Toy Town Christmas

Photo copyright Toy Town Christmas

Toy Town Christmas Participating Businesses

Governor Healey Calls on President Trump to Immediately Release Heating Assistance Funding

Despite federal government reopening, Trump Administration says it'll take until end of the month for LIHEAP funds to be available for families, seniors and people with disabilities

BOSTON (November 20, 2025) - Governor Maura Healey is today demanding that the Trump Administration immediately release funding for the for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). This is a federal program, referred to as the Massachusetts Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) in Massachusetts, that typically helps more than 150,000 Massachusetts households, representing over 300,000 people, afford to heat their homes during the winter each year. This federal funding usually becomes available in early November, but it was delayed due to the federal government shutdown. Despite the government reopening, the Trump Administration has informed states that LIHEAP funding will not be restored until the end of the month.

"Every year, thousands of low-income families, seniors, and people with disabilities struggle to afford to heat their homes during New England's bitter cold winters," said Governor Healey. "LIHEAP serves as a crucial lifeline for Massachusetts families and people across the country. It's bad enough that the Trump Administration shut off funding for heating assistance, SNAP, Head Start and other essential safety net programs that people rely on during the shutdown. But now, with the government reopened, they are telling us that it'll more time to get LIHEAP funding flowing again. This is unacceptable, especially as the holidays approach and temperatures continue to plummet. President Trump needs to immediately release LIHEAP funding and not leave our families out in the cold."

"As temperatures continue to drop and the cost of utilities continue to rise, our low-income residents--including seniors and working parents--should not be left in the cold due to the Trump Administration's political games," said Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell. "I am grateful to Governor Healey for standing up for Massachusetts residents and demanding that the federal government take immediate action to ensure every household can stay warm and safe."

"It is simply unacceptable for the Trump Administration to delay LIHEAP funding, as many Massachusetts residents, and residents across New England, cannot afford to heat their homes without this vital support. If the Trump Administration cares at all about vulnerable residents who are facing freezing temperatures over the next several months, they will ensure that LIHEAP funding is available as soon as possible," said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy)."While President Trump continues to play games with the most basic government support systems, the House will remain focused on how we can better serve our residents here in Massachusetts despite a hostile federal government."

"Withholding funds for LIHEAP will needlessly force people to choose between staying warm and paying for food and other living costs that are already rising because of Trump's policies," said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). "Just as we've seen with SNAP, the point is cruelty--punishing people, including many who voted for Donald Trump, by threatening to make them endure the cold. I emphatically join Governor Healey in calling on the Trump Administration to release these funds immediately. Stop inflicting harm on our people."

In her letter to Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Director of the Office of Management and Budget Russell Vought, Governor Healey urged the Trump Administration to promptly release the highest allowable amount of LIHEAP funding authorized under the Continuing Resolution, ensure that the program is fully staffed and operational so that states and community partners can implement their assistance plans without delay, and provide clear guidance and coordination to the states regarding timelines, eligibility, and disbursement mechanisms. (Read the full letter at https://www.mass.gov/doc/liheap-letter/download)

Until federal funds are restored for LIHEAP, the Healey-Driscoll Administration has been using leftover federal funding from last year to support households with a heating emergency. Heating emergencies include not having any heat, receiving a termination notice from a utility, having less than 1/8 of a tank of oil, or having less than three days' supply of other deliverable fuels. Any family experiencing a heating emergency should immediately contact their Local Administering Agency to apply for heating assistance.

During the 2024-2025 heating season, the Massachusetts Home Energy Assistance Program provided over 159,000 Massachusetts households with financial assistance to heat their homes through the winter. The majority of those households, 54 percent, were seniors on a fixed income and approximately 11 percent of the households assisted have children under the age of 6.

In response to the prolonged government shutdown this year, the Department of Public Utilities (DPU) expanded the shut-off moratorium for this winter. This year, shut-off moratorium began on October 27, 2025, and will end on April 1, 2026, as opposed to the typical mid-November to mid-March timeframe. The shut-off moratorium applies to residential customers of the major gas and electric utilities. This year, the DPU applied this extension to Municipal Light Plant customers, one of the only times the DPU has exercised this authority. These utility companies cannot shut off heating service to residents who demonstrate they are experiencing financial hardship. Any customer experiencing financial hardship should contact their utility to learn about the additional assistance programs offered like budget billing and extended payment plans to make your utility bills more manageable.

Winchendon's Local Administering Agency for LIHEAP is Making Opportunity Count (MOC), 601 River Street, Fitchburg, MA 01420, (978) 345-7040, (978) 345-4520, www.mocinc.org.

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

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 21

Sons Post 193 Fish Fry 5:00-7:00 p.m. Fish fry dinner, $15 per person. Side of mussels, $5. Sponsored by Sons of the American Legion. Everyone welcome! At Winchendon American Legion Post #193, 295 School St.

Annual Turkey Social at the Legion 7:00 p.m. Raffling turkeys, assorted meats, side raffles, lobsters, scratch tickets, 50/50. Everyone welcome! At Winchendon American Legion Post #193, 295 School St.

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 22

Brunch & Bowl at The HUB 10:00 a.m. $10 per person. Bring the kids down for some good ole fashioned Saturday morning cartoons while they enjoy some breakfast and bowling. Fun for the whole family. PAJAMAS welcome! Continental breakfast, unlimited coffee, 1 hour of bowling (shoes included), beverages available to purchase. At The HUB, 5 Summer Dr, Winchendon.

Business Alley Crawl Shop & Sip 10:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m. Shop 'n' sip! Support our growing local businesses and check out the crafts and culinary creations of some of Winchendon's talented entrepreneurs! Food, vendors, drinks. At The HUB, 5 Summer Dr, Winchendon.

SUNDAY NOVEMBER 23

Toy Town Swing at The HUB 5:00-9:00 p.m. No partner needed! $10 per person includes lesson. Dance class 5:00-5:30, no experience needed. Drop-ins welcome. Food, drink, wine and beer for sale. Live music by Steve and Anna of TakeJazz. 100% of proceeds go to benefit the Winchendon CAC. 3rd Sunday of every month. For info and to register, go to https://www.the-hub.org/event-details/toy-town-swing-the-hub-2025-08-17-17-00. Presented by The HUB and TakeJazz. At The HUB, 5 Summer Dr, Winchendon.

TUESDAY NOVEMBER 25

Thanksgiving Dinner 11:30 a.m. RSVP by November 14 to reserve a space, by calling 978-297-3155. Cheese & crackers, turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, two vegetables, cranberry sauce, roll, pumpkin pie. At Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave, Winchendon.

WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 26

Thanksgiving Eve Party with Nick Staples 7:00 p.m. He is back...Downstairs in the Speakeasy! No cover charge! Open to the public! Come join us! At the Snowbound Club, 130 Baldwinville Rd, Winchendon.

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 29

Fire Station Open House 10:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m. Tours of the station, opportunity to ask questions about the Fire Station Addition and Renovation Project and the Special Town Meeting vote on Dec. 1. At Winchendon Fire Station, 405 Central St.

MONDAY DECEMBER 1

Special Town Meeting 7:00 p.m. Murdock High School Gym, 3 Memorial Dr, Winchendon.

WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 3

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

Teen Gender & Sexuality Alliance 3:30-5:00 p.m. BML's GSA is a safe space for teens to meet, exchange information, receive support, socialize, build a community, and talk about issues and concerns related to sexual orientation and gender identity and expression. At Beals Memorial Library, 50 Pleasant St, Winchendon.

Thriller & Mystery Book Club at the Beals 6:30 p.m. Join us if you love the thrills and chills of a thriller, or mysterious whodunnit? To find out what the book is for the book clubs contact or visit the library. At Beals Memorial Library, 50 Pleasant St, Winchendon.

THURSDAY DECEMBER 4

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 Chicken Dinner. Free-will donation $2 per person, $5 per family; no one turned away. 52 Spruce Street, Winchendon.

FRIDAY DECEMBER 5

Festival of Lights Community Tree-Lighting 6:00 p.m. Join us for a magical evening as we light up Grout Park for the holidays! Bring your family and friends to celebrate the season together with:
Caroling with Mr. & Mrs. Claus
Holiday cheer and community fun
The big lighting at 6:00 p.m.
At Grout Park, 421 Spring St, Winchendon (corner of Spring and Glenallen Streets). Sponsored by Winchendon Parks & Recreation.

Karaoke at The HUB <6:30-9:30 p.m. Karaoke Night is back! Sponsored by Winchendon Parks & Recreation. At The HUB, 5 Summer Dr, Winchendon.

SATURDAY DECEMBER 6

Festival of Lights: Breakfast with Santa 8:30 a.m.- 12:00 p.m. Get ready for a magical morning of fun, food, and holiday cheer! Come enjoy breakfast, meet Santa, and make some sweet memories this holiday season!
Cookie Crawl: 8:30 a.m.- 12:00 p.m.
Letters to Santa: 8:30 .m.- 12:00 p.m.
Gingerbread Decorating: 8:30 .m.- 12:00 p.m.
Crafts: 10:30 .m.- 12:00 p.m.
At Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave, Winchendon. Sponsored by Winchendon Parks & Recreation.

Brunch & Bowl at The HUB 10:00 a.m. $10 per person. Bring the kids down for some good ole fashioned Saturday morning cartoons while they enjoy some breakfast and bowling. Fun for the whole family. PAJAMAS welcome! Continental breakfast, unlimited coffee, 1 hour of bowling (shoes included), beverages available to purchase. At The HUB, 5 Summer Dr, Winchendon.

Crafternoon Wood Sign 10:30 a.m.- 12:00 p.m. $20 per person. Kick off your weekend with some creative fun at our Wood Sign Making Crafternoon! Bring your imagination and craft a festive piece to brighten your home for the holidays. All materials are provided--just come ready to paint, create, and enjoy a relaxing morning with friends and neighbors! Sponsored by Winchendon Parks & Recreation, in collaboration with Local Makers Hub. Spots are limited--register today! Register at https://www.clover.com/pay-widgets/4e64aeb1-e65c-4562-8538-66b90659a266. At Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave, Winchendon.

SUNDAY DECEMBER 7

Vendor Sale 10:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m. Get your last minute gifts and stocking stuffers! Local vendors including Refined Rebel Emporium, Cabin Sweets, Moon Maven Jewelry, C&K Crafters, Dawn's Creative Crafts, Catherine's Custom Crafting, The Pretty Duckling, The Crafty Duo and more! Sponsored by the Winchendon American Legion Auxiliary Unit 193. At Winchendon American Legion Post #193. 295 School St.

TUESDAY DECEMBER 9

Vet to Vet Café 10:00-11:00 a.m. Are you a Veteran looking to connect with fellow vets and share experiences from your time in service? Join us for coffee, refreshments, and meaningful discussions with others who have served. Open to all Veterans in the local community--please spread the word and invite your favorite Veteran! 2nd Tuesday of each month. At Broadview Assisted Living, 547 Central St, Winchendon.

THURSDAY DECEMBER 11

Toy Town Swing Sampler Class 2:00-2:30 p.m. $5 per lesson. To get more info or sign up, contact thehub@winchendon-cac.org or call 978-297-1667. At The HUB, 5 Summer Dr, Winchendon.

Beals Book Club 3:00-4:00 p.m. Join a discussion group that allows avid readers to discuss the themes, plots, and characters of selected books. To find out what the book is for the book clubs contact or visit the library. 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 a Christmas baked ham dinner with sides and dessert. Free-will donation $2 per person, $5 per family; no one turned away. 126 Central Street.

FRIDAY DECEMBER 12

Sound Bites Community Jam & Food Drive 6:30 p.m. An event to support the Winchendon Community Action Committee's Food Pantry. Bring a non-perishable food item and receive a raffle ticket for swag and other fun prizes. Sponsored by The HUB and Sound Bites Events. At The HUB, 5 Summer Dr, Winchendon.

SATURDAY DECEMBER 13

Brunch & Bowl at The HUB 10:00 a.m. $10 per person. Bring the kids down for some good ole fashioned Saturday morning cartoons while they enjoy some breakfast and bowling. Fun for the whole family. PAJAMAS welcome! Continental breakfast, unlimited coffee, 1 hour of bowling (shoes included), beverages available to purchase. At The HUB, 5 Summer Dr, Winchendon.

Christmas in Toy Town - Holiday Open House and Table Settings 10:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. Come check out the Murdock-Whitney mansion all decorated in its finest! As usual, we will have it over the top decorated!!! After visiting the Murdock-Whitney, you can then see the decorations at the Isaac Morse House Toy Museum. Finally, you can head up to the Old Center Church and check out the many gorgeous decorated holiday tables, as well as the lovely decorations in the main church. This will be an event you dont want to miss!! Admission is a $20 donation, children under 15 are FREE!! Tickets available at https://www.winchendonhistory.com/get-tickets/holiday-house-tour. (Starts at) Winchendon History & Cultural Center, 151 Front St. Continues on Sunday, December 14.

Holiday Bazaar and Cookie Sale 10:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m. Two floors of vendors! Crafts, retail items, foods, plenty of gift ideas and stocking stuffers! Stop in and enjoy our decorated sanctuary. Annual cookie sale (pickup of pre-orders, sales as long as supplies last). Pre-order your cookies at uucw.ncmuuc.org/order-your-cookies-here/. At UU Church of Winchendon, 126 Central St.

Sensory Friendly Santa Visit 11:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m. At Beals Memorial Library, 50 Pleasant St, Winchendon.

SUNDAY DECEMBER 14

Christmas in Toy Town - Holiday Open House and Table Settings 10:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. Continued from Saturday, December 13, see above.

A Classic Christmas - Concert with Cassie Swartz 5:00-6:30 p.m. Experience the wonder of the holiday season as we transport you to Christmases of the past! Set within the elegant Winchendon Historical Society's Victorian mansion, this unique concert blends the charm of the 1800's with the joy of timeless Christmas music. The evening begins with a festive reception featuring charcuterie eats and holiday refreshments, followed by a heartwarming concert in the grand living room--complete with a glowing tree, candlelight, and the sound of your favorite carols echoing through the halls.
Featuring:
Cassie Swartz, Vocals
Dave Twiss, Piano
Special Guest Performers
Expect beloved classics, sing-alongs, and a few surprises--all wrapped in a night of nostalgia and community spirit. Benefits the Wonderfund of Massachusetts. Tickets $28.52, purchase at www.eventbrite.com/e/a-classic-christmas-tickets-1839952520519. At Winchendon History & Culture Center, Murdock-Whitney Mansion, 151 Front St.

MONDAY DECEMBER 15

Walking Beside You: Caregiver Support Group 6:00 p.m. We invite all parents, grandparents, and caregivers raising individuals who are neurodivergent, on the autism spectrum, or have other special needs to join us. At Beals Memorial Library, 50 Pleasant St, Winchendon.

WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 17

Classic Movie Night at the Beals 3:00-5:30 p.m. Screening this month: It's a Wonderful Life. At Beals Memorial Library, 50 Pleasant St, Winchendon.

THURSDAY DECEMBER 18

Toy Town Swing Sampler Class 2:00-2:30 p.m. $5 per lesson. To get more info or sign up, contact thehub@winchendon-cac.org or call 978-297-1667. At The HUB, 5 Summer Dr, Winchendon.

Winchendon Community Caroling 5:30 p.m. Bundle Up and come together as a community to share holiday cheer through caroling! Gather friends and neighbors to spread festive spirit while "making spirits bright." by participating in this year's holiday carol. At Beals Memorial Library, 50 Pleasant St, Winchendon.

SATURDAY DECEMBER 20

Pioneer Valley Brass Quintet 2:00 p.m. This fine five-member ensemble (2 trumpets, French horn, trombone and tuba) performs holiday and classical favorites. Free admission. PVB appears courtesy of the First Universalist Parish of North Dana Trust. Reception and refreshments follow the concert. At UU Church of Winchendon, 126 Central St.

BINGO! at the HUB 7:00-9:00 p.m. Play 15 exciting games. Last game is a COVERALL with a GUARANTEED $75 pot! 🤩 Bring your friends, grab your lucky charm, and get ready for a fun-filled evening of bingo and prizes! At The HUB, 5 Summer Dr, Winchendon.

SUNDAY DECEMBER 21

Toy Town Swing at The HUB 5:00-9:00 p.m. No partner needed! $10 per person includes lesson. Dance class 5:00-5:30, no experience needed. Drop-ins welcome. Food, drink, wine and beer for sale. Live music by Steve and Anna of TakeJazz. 100% of proceeds go to benefit the Winchendon CAC. 3rd Sunday of every month. For info and to register, go to https://www.the-hub.org/event-details/toy-town-swing-the-hub-2025-08-17-17-00. Presented by The HUB and TakeJazz. At The HUB, 5 Summer Dr, Winchendon.

SATURDAY DECEMBER 27

TRIVIA NIGHT 6:30 p.m. We are ending 2025 with our First TRIVIA NIGHT with Tony's Toxic Trivia. Fun starts at 6:30 PM. Get your friends, make a team and win fun prizes. At The HUB, 5 Summer Dr, Winchendon.

WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 31

Denim & Diamonds New Year's Eve Party 8:00 p.m.- 12:00 a.m. At Winchendon American Legion Post #193, 295 School St.

ONGOING

SUNDAYS

Bowling 12:00-5:00 p.m. $25 for a lane per hour for up to 5 people. "Sober Sundays" (no alcoholic beverages). At The HUB (Winchendon CAC), 5 Summer Dr.

MONDAYS

Pickleball - Open Courts 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 10:00 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 Used Book and Media Sale 1:00-3:00 p.m. 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

Yoga at the Beals Memorial Library 4:30-5:30 p.m. With Chantal from Shadow Academy Wellness. Unwind, relax, and celebrate the beauty of yoga. All skill levels welcomed! Mats and Blocks are available, if needed. Free with a suggested donation. For more info, contact 978-297-0300, bealsmemoriallibrary@gmail.com or visit www.bealslibrary.org. At Beals Memorial Library, 50 Pleasant St., Winchendon.

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

Strength Training with Mary Lee 8:30-9:15 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 9:15-10:15 a.m. At the Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave., Winchendon. 978-297-3155.

Pickleball - Open Courts 9:30 a.m.- 1:00 p.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.

Taste of Home Lunch 11:30 a.m.- 12:30 p.m. Enjoy a homecooked lunch made by volunteers! At the Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave., Winchendon. 978-297-3155.

Winch Buddies 3:30 p.m. At The HUB, 5 Summer Dr, Winchendon.

WEDNESDAYS

Ukulele Class 9:00-10:00 a.m. At the Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave, Winchendon.

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

Chair Yoga with Paula 10:00-11:00 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.

Bingo! 12:30-2:30 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.

Winch Buddies 3:30 p.m. At The HUB, 5 Summer Dr, Winchendon.

Friends Used Book and Media Sale 5:00-7:00 p.m. 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

Kids' Bowling 6:00 p.m. At The HUB, 5 Summer Dr, Winchendon.

Den Meetings 6:30-7:45 p.m. The Cub Scouts grades K-5 meets every Thursday Night. To sign up and become a Scout please visit: beascout.org For more information please contact ccpack193@gmail.com.

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

Lunch and Free Bowling for Seniors 10:30 a.m.- 12:30 p.m. Please call 978-297-3155 at least 24 hours in advance to reserve a lunch. Bowling is free for all seniors 55+. At the Winchendon Community HUB, 5 Summer Dr, Winchendon

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

Toy Town Trolley 8:00 a.m.- 8:00 p.m. Scheduled rides, call or use the Community Connector app to reserve a ride. Sponsored by the Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave., Winchendon, call 978-297-3155 for more info.

Friends Used Book and Media Sale 10:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m. 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

Shopping Transportation to Rindge for Seniors 3:30 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.

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.

North Central Collective Greenhouse 5:30-7:00 p.m. Join us for a meal, message and worship. NCC is a collective of likeminded churches who purpose to establish a Gospel presence that leads to Gospel proclamation in our region. At The Chapel Downtown, 286 Central St, Winchendon.