Ashland April 2017

localtownpages 

Ashland 

PRSRT STD 

ECRWSS 

U.S. POSTAGE 

PAID 

Taunton, MA 

Permit No. 92 

Postal Customer 

Local 

Vol. 4 No. 9 Free to Every Home and Business Every Month April 2017 

The Voice of Your Community 

By Concerned Residints 

The recent appearance 

of swastikas at Ashland 

High School and Ashland 

Middle School has 

shocked many and saddened 

us all. The leadership 

of the Ashland Public 

Schools has been unwavering 

in its commitment 

to address such issues 

and educating students 

and staff about how to 

build even more inclusive 

schools. Our entire Ashland 

community, however, must do 

its part as well. 

We, the undersigned members 

of the greater Ashland 

community, know that in our 

current culture the swastika 

has become a potent symbol 

of hate. For Jews the swastika 

often triggers fear and trauma 

passed down from one generation 

to another. For all 

of us, it is a reminder of the 

atrocities of the Holocaust 

Ashland Is United 

and the dangers of blaming 

one group for the problems 

we face. 

And more globally, while 

the swastika is specifically 

an anti-Semitic symbol, we 

are concerned about any 

and all actions or words 

that communicate to any 

group that they are not 

welcome or accepted 

as full members of our 

community. An attack on 

any group—religious, racial, 

ethnic, or otherwise—is 

an attack on us all. 

Ashland is made up of a 

diverse group of residents 

of different backgrounds, 

religions, cultures, races, 

ethnicities, sexual orientations, 

gender identities, 

sentiments, and life 

experiences. Though we 

are different, ASHLAND 

IS UNITED. It is a place 

where all are welcome and 

equal. Tolerance is not 

good enough. For us it 

is all about Unity in Diversity. 

STATEMENT OF UNITY 

AND COMMITMENT 

TO ACTION 

We know that our strength 

comes from our unity and 

our interconnectedness. We 

know when we stand together 

against hate and intolerance 

ASHLAND IS UNITED 

continued on page 3 

Residents to Vote 

on Critical Topics at 

Town Meeting 

By Deborah Burke 

Henderson, 

Contributing Writer 

Mark your calendar now for 

the Annual Town Meeting on 

Wednesday, May 3, at 7 p.m. at 

the Ashland High School (AHS) 

Auditorium, 65 East Union St. 

If town meeting extends to a 

second night, it will be held on 

Monday, May 8. 

Town Meeting is an opportunity 

for every resident to directly 

participate in town government. 

Residents may ask questions and 

share concerns before voting on 

the operating budget and other 

matters that directly affect the 

community over the next 12 

months and beyond. 

“This budget [FY2018 operating 

budget] continues our 

‘Smart, Safe, and Sustainable’ 

approach to financial management, 

which includes investing in 

services and critical community 

service projects like the Quiet 

Zone, while addressing many of 

our long-term liabilities,” Town 

Manager Michael Herbert said. 

Warrant articles include connecting 

to the Massachusetts 

Water Resources Authority 

(MWRA), increasing the senior 

tax exemption and extending the 

temporary moratorium bylaw on 

recreational marijuana. To review 

the warrant, which should 

be posted by April 2, visit www. 

ashlandmass.com. 

Prior to town meeting, the 

town manager will hold several 

community forums where residents 

can learn more about the 

proposed articles. For an up-todate 

listing of these public forms, 

TOWN MEETING 


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Page 2 Ashland Local Town Pages www.localtownpages.com April 2017 

Friends Kick Off Fundraising 

Campaign to 

Honor Elka Troutman 

A much-loved member of 

the Ashland community, Elka 

Troutman, passed away last 

April after a long battle with 

colorectal cancer. Troutman 

was a tireless volunteer for 

many causes in Ashland, but 

her biggest passion was supporting 

children’s literacy. For 

many years she co-chaired the 

town’s summer reading program 

to encourage children to 

enjoy books even while school 

was on recess. She also volunteered 

in school libraries and 

classrooms to support the work 

of all teachers in the district. 

She was loved and respected 

by many for her selfless efforts. 

localtownpages 

Published Monthly 

Mailed FREE to the 

Community of Ashland 

Circulation: 7,100 households 

& businesses 

Publisher 

Chuck Tashjian 

Editor 

Cynthia Whitty 

Send Editorial to: 

editor@ashlandtownnews.com 

Sales 

Susanne Odell Farber 

Advertising Sales Manager 

Lori Koller 

Elka Troutman’s passion was 

children’s literacy. (Photo/ 

submitted) 

To honor her spirit and 

commitment to the children 

of Ashland, the Friends of the 

Ashland Library plan to install 

a bronze sculpture, created by 

local artist Michael Alfano of 

Hopkinton, near the Children’s 

Room of the library. 

Troutman’s favorite children’s 

book was “The Story of Ferdinand” 

by Munro Leaf. This 

beloved classic is about a calf 

who doesn’t want to buck 

and fight like the other bulls 

but rather wants to sit peacefully 

and smell the flowers. Its 

central theme of “Be yourself 

and follow your path in life” is 

an important message for our 

children and community. Accordingly, 

the sculpture will be 

of a calf, a fitting way to honor 

Troutman who lived her life 

with passion, commitment and 

her own unique style. 

The Friends of the Library 

are kicking off a fundraising 

campaign in April to cover the 

cost of the sculpture. Please 

consider making a donation 

of any amount. Donations can 

be made online via PayPal at 

www.friendsoftheapl.com or by 

mailing a check to: The FAL, 

66 Front Street, Ashland, MA 

01721 (please note that your 

check is for the sculpture). 

Thank you! 

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Ashland Business 

Association Offers 

Scholarships 

By Cynthia Whitty 

The Ashland Business Association 

(ABA) will award two- 

$1,500 scholarships to high 

school seniors residing in Ashland 

who best demonstrate good 

work ethics, motivation, creativity 

and business/community interests. 

The deadline to submit 

an application and supporting 

material is midnight, Friday, 

April 28; the scholarships will 

be awarded at June graduation. 

Last year, the ABA received over 

20 applications. 

Ashland businesses and residents 

are invited to support the 

program by sending a check by 

May 12 to the ABA, P.O. Box 

510, Ashland, MA 01721. Donors 

will be thanked publically 

in all ABA promotional materials 

and at the high school graduation. 

For more information, contact 

Scholarship Program Chair 

Adam Sachs at asachs@centinelfg.com 

or 781-446-5006. For 

a scholarship application form, 

visit www.ashlandbusinessassociation.com/index.php/aboutaba/aba-scholarship-award. 

Advertising Sales Assistant 

Kyle Koller 

Production & Layout 

Susan Dunne 

Michelle McSherry 

Dawna Shackley 

Advertising Department 

508-954-8148 

susanneo@localtownpages.com 

Ad deadline is the 

15th of each month. 

Localtownpages assumes 

no financial liability for errors 

or omissions in printed 

advertising and reserves the 

right to reject/edit advertising 

or editorial submissions. 

© Copyright 2017 LocalTownPages 

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Last year’s ABA scholarship winners: Tucker Ahlers attends Brandies 

and wants to teach history and Amanda DeBonee studies nursing 

at UMass Amherst and hopes to obtain a doctorate in nursing and 

become a nurse practitioner. (Photo/Cynthia Whitty) 

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April 2017 Ashland Local Town Pages www.localtownpages.com Page 3 

Open Positions for 

2017 Town Elections 

Elections for town 

boards and commissions 

will be held on Tuesday, 

May 16, at the Ashland 

High School. Note that the 

deadline to register to vote 

or change party enrollment 

for town meeting and town 

elections is Thursday, April 

13. For more information, 

visit www.ashlandmass. 

com, or contact the Town 

Clerk’s office at 508-881- 

0100, ext. 7127 or by email, 

townclerkoffice@ashlandmass.com. 

ASHLAND IS UNITED 

continued from page 1 

that everyone in our community 

is safer. We know that we must 

work actively to make sure that 

everyone in our community 

knows what is acceptable and 

what is not. 

We pledge to work together 

in Ashland and 

beyond to promote an inclusive 

and respectful community. 

We believe in the inherent 

value of all and we will take direct 

actions to actively foster the 

physical, mental and emotional 

well-being of all members of 

our community. 

Assessor 

Position Description Year Term 

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1 seat, 3-years 


As concerned Ashland residents 

and leaders, we hereby affirm 

that: 

We are a caring and supportive 

community where all are 

WELCOME and equal. 

We will STAND UP as allies 

for our fellow residents should 

we witness words or acts of intolerance. 

We will MODEL acceptance 

and kindness for our children. 

We will commit to LEARN 

more about those with traditions 

or backgrounds different 

than our own. 

For a list of concerned Ashland 

residents and to add your 

name in unity and support, visit 

www.ashlandisunited.org. 

2020 

2019 

Board of Health 2 seats, 3-years 2020 

Housing Authority 1 seat, 5-years 2022 

Library Trustee 2 seat, 3-years 2020 

Moderator 1 seat, 1-year 2018 

Planning Board 


1 seat, 2 years 

2022 

2019 

School Committee 1 seats, 3 years 2020 

Selectman 1 seat, 3-year 2020 

TOWN MEETING 


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check www.ashlandmass.com or 

contact the town manager’s office 

at 508-881-0100. 

Assistant Town Manager Jennifer 

Ball noted there could be 

as many as 19 articles for consideration 

at this spring’s town 

meeting. Articles to be voted on 

include: 

• Review and approval of the 

Town’s Fiscal Year 2018 operating 

budget 

• Update on the proposed supplementation 

of the Town’s 

public water supply with a connection 

to the MWRA 

• Review of the Town’s revamped 

five-year capital plan, 

including two projects town 

officials seek to launch July 1, 

2017: the Riverwalk (an open 

space walkway starting at the 

MBTA station and traversing 

eight-tenths of a mile to Ashland’s 

Downtown District) and 

establishment of Quiet Zones 

at two at-grade railroad crossings 

(Cross St. and Main St.) 

• Expand hours of operation 

at the Ashland Public Library 

to 50 hours weekly (to include 

Monday afternoons) 

• Increase Fire Department staff 

by two additional firefighters 

to allow the department to respond 

simultaneously to multiple 

calls 

• Increase the senior tax exemption 

by 25 percent, resulting in 

an additional $125 per eligible 

senior (combined household income 

of $57,000) 

• Extend the temporary moratorium 

bylaw on recreational 

marijuana by six months to 

align with the Commonwealth’s 

newly-adopted regulations for 

2018 

• Adopt the new Municipal 

Modernization Act, which 

would give the Town’s Board 

of Selectmen the flexibility to 

revise speed limits either streetby-street 

or town-wide. 

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Their drive towards independence 

A teenage life is filled with milestones. From their first days at High 

School to their first days behind the wheel. Momentous occasions 

arrive with an increased level of responsibility. 

They’ve done their practice hours, received their certificate from Driver’s Ed, and 

now passed the State driving exam. And so here you are, handing over the keys 

to your son or daughter. As you learned yourself, they now have a responsibility 

beyond simply operating the car. From oil changes and tire rotations to 

registrations and renewals. Not to mention a steady stream of gas money. 

Speaking of money, how is your new driver going to pay for it all? Maybe it’s time 

to consider another milestone - their own checking account. 

Introducing NB Checking. 

In addition to no account fees or any hidden charges, with NB Checking your 

young driver can use any ATM anywhere in the world, and we’ll automatically 

reimburse every ATM fee. And even though they can now drive to one of our 

branches, with NB Mobile one never actually has to: easily transfer money, deposit 

checks, track spending, and receive cash back rewards directly on the app. 

Don’t wait for college for them to learn about banking. 

Please stop by and meet our Ashland Branch Manager, Denise Conti, at 41 Front 

Street. She’s a parent and will take as much time as needed to discuss banking 

and set up an account. She can be reached directly at 781-247-6891 or by email at 

DConti@NeedhamBank.com. Let’s create the next milestone together. 

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Ashland Cultural Council 

Announces 2107 Grants 

The Ashland Cultural Council 

(ACC) recently awarded a total of 

$5,667 to 15 groups and individuals, 

selected from a competitive list of 23 

applicants. The grantees will present 

their projects at a reception this spring. 

The goal of ACC is to bring a variety 

of cultural talent to town and support 

local groups. For more information, visit 

www.ashlandculturalcouncil.org. 

2107 ACC grantees: 

1. Stephen Lewis - Anti Apartied 

Poster 

2. Ashland Music Association - 

Bass Clarinet 

3. Ashland Healthy Harvest, Inc - 

Farmer’s Market Series 

4. Arts! Ashland Alliance, Inc. - 

The Beat Bus 

5. Arts! Ashland Alliance, Inc. - 

Dragonfly Festival 

6. Jim Manning - Minecraft Madness 

7. Friends of the Ashland Public 

Library - Hugh Hangley Music 

Circle 


Library - Zendales on black tiles 


Library - Henna for Teens 

10. Rebecca Micucci - Cultural 

Diversity in Ashland Middle 

School 

11. Janet Applefield - Combating Hate 

and Prejudice 

12. Steve Henderson - The older 

I get Play 

13. Amazing Things Arts Center - 

Open Mic Series 

14. Southeastern Massachusetts 

Community Concert Band - 

Ashland Band Concert 

15. Chad Mcgowan - Mobile Space 

maker 

Town to Offer 

Shingles 

Vaccine 

The Ashland Board of Health will 

provide free shingles vaccines to eligible 

Ashland residents, 65 years and older with 

Medicare insurance (no Part D). For more 

information and to schedule an appointment, 

contact the Board of Health, 508 

881 0100 x7128, or Public Health Nurse 

Nancy Cleary, 508-881-0100, ext 7129, 

ncleary@ashlandmass.com. 

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Meet Ashland’s Marathon Runners 

By Les Clark, 


The daffodils are up. The 

weather has moderated. And, oh 

yes, it’s Boston Marathon time. 

Soon, the roads leading away 

from the Hopkinton starting 

line will be clogged with thousands 

of walkers, wheel chairs 

and runners from here, there 

and everywhere. In fact, runners 

from 50 states and 94 countries 

are registered this year. Jamming 

the road sides will be multitudes 

of cheering supporters. 

Among our Ashland runners 

are: 

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Jessica Popik, 30 

On an unseasonably warm 

February day, I met Jessica Popik 

on her morning run. She is an 

entrant in this year’s Boston 

Marathon by way of winning 

the Seekonk Black Goose Marathon 

in 3 hours, 24 minutes. 

“I was inspired by my dad because 

I always wanted to do the 

things he did,” she said. “He ran 

the 100 th Boston Marathon, and 

if he could do it, I could, too.” 

This is her 15 th . 

Popik runs at least six times 

each week, carbo loads with 

sports drinks, and when asked 

her thoughts while running, she 

laughed, “I count cars. I count 

trees.” 

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Jessica Popik 

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Although Popik runs solo, 

she has the support of her mom 

cheering her on close to the finish 

line. That encouragement 

will be necessary since Popik 

said the marathon is physically 

and emotionally challenging; 

the first four miles are downhill 

and require pacing. She said 

with confidence she intends to 

finish at 3 hours 15 minutes. 

Kimberly Connor, 32 

This Ashland resident and 

Mindess School 3 rd grade 

teacher Kimberly Connor is 

Stacy Kaiser and her sister Jodi 

running her first marathon 

and said with enthusiasm, “I 

am so excited. I run for a lot 

of reasons. My dad was a runner. 

There weren’t a lot of girls 

playing sports when I was 12 so 

I ran track. Later, when I was 

in high school, I started the first 

girls’ cross country race team.” 

Connor credits her passion for 

running to her coach Bill Cunis. 

As might be expected, Connor 

said her students will be 

at mile 3 to cheer her on. Her 

mother will be at the finish line, 

around 4 hours and 45 minutes 

later. Connor stated, “The goal 

is to finish.” 

“I try not to think about the 

miles so I listen to music. It’s an 

Kimberly Connor 

old-school play list,” Connor 

confessed without revealing the 

artists. As for her pre-race diet? 

“I love spaghetti.” 

Stacy Kaiser, 29 

Ashland police officer and 

another first-time marathon 

runner, Stacy Kaiser has reasons 

to run. “I’m the kind of person 

who likes to give back and assist 

people in any way I can.” 

Her rationale is personal. 

She supports and runs for the 

Heather Abbott Foundation, 

which supplies prosthetics to 

those who have lost limbs. 

Kaiser met Abbott who lost a 

leg in the 2013 Boston Marathon 

bombing. They met when 

Kaiser’s parents supplied the 

flooring for Abbott’s handicapaccessible 

home. 

Kaiser is running with her sister, 

Jodi, the inspiration for this 

first marathon. While never having 

run 26 miles before, she revealed 

she and her sister recently 

ran a Super Hero 17-mile effort; 

Kaiser as Optimus Prime and 

sister as transformer, Bumblebee. 

Les Clark, who believes running 

is for others, can be reached at 

lclark9247@aol.com.


The Lanterns at Warren Woods 

Where contemporary living meets style and convenience 

By Deborah Burke 

Henderson, 


Where does desirable singlefamily 

home living meet the 

convenience of condominium 

ownership? They meet at The 

Lanterns at Warren Woods, Ashland’s 

most vibrant 55+ residential 

living environment nestled 

alongside 40 acres of beautiful, 

protected open space and across 

from the expansive Ashland Reservoir 

and the 120-acre Warren 

Woods on Chestnut Street. 

Whether you’re an empty 

nester, single professional or 

someone seeking the enjoyment 

of retirement years, treat yourself 

to a tour of the three village 

home concepts at Five Fern 

Crossing that are being developed 

by The Green Company. 

“The Lanterns is the only 55 

plus condominium community 

in Metrowest with 100 percent 

detached homes,” Sales Director 

Judy Jennings said. “These 93 

homes will have first floor masters, 

front porches and rear decks 

or patios, and a beautiful central 

meeting house and outdoor pool 

are slated for construction this 

summer.” 

“We try to make things as 

easy as possible for the home 

buyer,” Dominique Sampson, 

vice president of sales and marketing, 

added. “We walk through 

the homes room by room so the 

owner-to-be can decide everything 

from the finish and height 

of the kitchen cabinets to carpeting 

style and color to standard or 

upgraded appliances. Judy has 

a long checklist of items she reviews 

with each buyer to ensure 

their new home is personalized 

just for them.” 

Prospective buyers meet with 

home coordinator, Joan Karol, 

three or four times for a half-day 

each to select the flooring, cabinetry, 

countertops, appliances 

and faucets for their new home. 

The Green Company is working 

with top-notch industry leaders 

General Electric, Kohler and 

Mohawk, and buyers are encouraged 

to visit the area stonework 

vendor to sign off on their granite 

slabs prior to installation. 

Currently, The Green Company 

is offering a $20,000 personalization 

allowance for each 

buyer. If the home is finished, 

the allowance may be put toward 

final items the owner wants 

to select to further enhance their 

future home. 

“We’ll always offer some type 

of personalization account,” 

Sampson added, “but there’s no 

guarantee about timing for the 

current offer, so we encourage 

folks to come and visit The Lanterns 

to make a more informed 

decision as to whether this is 

the right living environment for 

them.” 

According to Sampson, initial 

customer feedback during early 

tours was taken to heart about 

the largest model’s footprint. A 

few key changes are now being 

incorporated at Village 3 to provide 

an even more spacious and 

airier feel to the open-concept 

living area. 

During the past holiday season, 

this 1958-square foot model 

at The Lanterns comfortably 

held a gathering of approximately 

50 people. 

Since the homes are built on 

slab construction, each of the 

three residence styles offers additional 

unfinished “flex” space 

upstairs. This fully-insulated 

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area may be finished to serve 

as another room or left as is 

for storage space which can be 

heated or air conditioned, if 

desired. The Village 3 model, 

for example, has an extra 500 

square feet upstairs. Although 

this now serves as the development 

company’s conference 

room, it gives any buyer a good 

idea of how the space could be 

used. 

The condominium fee covers 

both condominium amenities 

and association expenses including 

maintenance of common 

area landscaping, snow removal, 

street lighting, exterior building 

maintenance, master insurance, 

recycling and rubbish removal, 

gutter cleaning and management 

of the association. 

The Green Company has 

been building award-winning 

neighborhoods since 1953, most 

notably, the Pinehills in Plymouth, 

Mass. 

“A local builder with a national 

reputation, The Green 

Company takes pride in developing 

each condominium townhome 

with exceptional design, 

respect for the land and privacy 

for every homeowner,” Sampson 

added. 

Furnished models at The 

Lanterns at Warren Woods are 

open Wednesday through Sunday, 

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Contact 

Judy Jennings at 508-322-6200 

to make an appointment for 

your tour. 

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Common Household Toxins a Danger to Pets 

VACATION TIME? 

Board Your Pets With Us 

Your pet’s new home away from home! 

Grooming Services available 

during your pet’s stay. 

By: Brittany Framson 

Understanding what potentially 

harmful poisons exist in 

your home helps keep your pets 

safe! Spring is in the air, so remember 

that your pets will be 

curious about new items that 

you bring into your home. At 

Easter time, many pet owners 

are unaware that many species 

of lily are potentially fatal 

to cats. Even small ingestions 

of the pollen or water from the 

vase can result in acute kidney 

failure, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures 

and even death. Another 

potentially harmful item that 

comes along with Easter is Easter 

basket grass! When a pet ingests 

Easter grass, it can become 

anchored to the base of the 

tongue or stomach, rendering 

it unable to pass through the intestines 

and can result in severe 

damage to the intestinal tract. 

When chocolate is ingested 

by pets, the chemical toxicity 

due to methylxanthines can 

cause vomiting, diarrhea, abnormal 

heart rhythms, tremors 

and even death. In general, the 

darker and more bitter the chocolate, 

the greater the danger. 

Onions cause gastrointestinal 

irritation and could lead to red 

blood cell damage, and the ingestion 

of grapes or raisins can 

cause kidney failure. 

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gum and candy. It can cause insulin 

release in most species, and 

can leads to low blood sugar and 

liver failure. Signs of toxicosis 

include vomiting, tremors and 

loss of coordination. 

The ingestion of marijuana 

causes pets to become lethargic, 

have a loss of balance, abnormal 

heart rhythms, low blood pressure 

and urinary incontinence. 

Adderall and other prescription 

medications cause overstimulation 

of the nervous system. 

Amphetamine poisoning in dogs 

and cat leads to agitation, tremors, 

seizures, elevated heart rate, 

high blood pressure, drooling, 

vomiting and diarrhea. 

The treatment of choice is 

decontamination, or induce 

vomiting, and gastrointestinal 

protection to prevent further absorption 

and healing of the gut. 

Trying to make them vomit as 

soon as possible after ingestion is 

best, but if you suspect your pet 

has ingested something toxic, 

call your veterinarian or the 

ASPCA Animal Poison Control 

Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately. 

If you have any question, 

please email Dr. Cristina Valas 

at drcrisvalas@thefamilypethospital.com 

. 

Ashland Police Chief 

Issues Statement on Federal 

Immigration Enforcement 

On March 7 Ashland Police 

Chief Craig Davis issued 

the following statement on Federal 

Immigration Enforcement: 

“Over the past week, my office 

has received inquiries from 

citizens after news reports in the 

media that the US Department 

of Homeland Security will be 

stepping up immigration policy 

enforcement and may seek to 

deputize municipal police officers 

under the federal 287(g) program 

that allows police officers to enforce 

immigration law. 

“Joining this program is at the 

discretion of the chief of police. 

The Ashland Police Department 

does not participate in this program, 

and we have no intention 

of joining this program. 

“It is my opinion that municipal 

police exist to protect and 

serve, in a respectful manner, all 

of those who live in, work in, or 

visit a community. The Town of 

Ashland is a welcoming place, 

and the Ashland Police Department 

is a progressive agency. We 

protect the public without regard 

for a person’s immigration status. 

“Members of our immigrant 

community should be able to 

confidentially engage the Ashland 

Police Department, and 

they should be fully empowered 

to call the police if they need 

help. No one should be afraid to 

call the police. 

“The Ashland Police Department 

does not conduct immigration 

status checks. The only 

instance in which an immigrant 

may face federal scrutiny about 

their status is if they are arrested 

for a serious felony by our police 

department. This is an automatic 

process. If an immigrant 

is arrested for a serious felony, 

Immigration and Customs Enforcement 

may place a detainer, 

or hold, on that person. 

“Anyone with any questions 

or concerns may call my office at 

508-881-1212.” 

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New England Crime: 

Mystery Festival Comes to Ashland 


The organizers of the Ashland 

Mystery Festival are expanding 

on last year’s mystery 

writers’ panel and book signing 

by adding a mystery feature 

film and a writers’ workshop. 

The Mystery Festival Weekend, 

focusing on the theme “New 

England Crime,” will be held 

on April 7 and 8 in the Ashland 

Library, 66 Front St., and is free 

and open to the public. Participants 

interested in attending the 

writers’ workshop on Saturday 

are asked to register in advance 

by calling the library, 508-881- 

0134, or emailing aplace@ashlandmass.com. 

Friday, April 7: 

7 pm: A full-length mystery 

feature film. 

Saturday, April 8: 

10 am to noon: Mystery 

Writers’ Workshop led by Leslie 

Ray Daniel 

Wheeler, author of the Miranda 

Lewis ‘living history’ mysteries. 

1 to 4 pm: Moderated Author 

Panel and Book Signing 

with the following authors: 

Ray Daniel is an award-winning 

author of Boston-based 

crime fiction and is the author 

of the Tucker Mysteries. His 

short story “Give Me a Dollar” 

won a 2014 Derringer Award 

for short fiction and “Driving 

Miss Rachel” was chosen as a 

Hallie Ephron 

2013 distinguished short story 

by Otto Penzler, editor of The 

Best American Mystery Stories 

2013. 

Hallie Ephron, “New York 

Times” bestselling author, is 

an Edgar Award finalist and 

four-time finalist for the Mary 

Higgins Clark Award. Ephron 

writes suspense novels she hopes 

readers can’t put down. She 

teaches writing at workshops 

and writing conferences across 

the country. An award-winning 

crime fiction book reviewer, she 

wrote an ON CRIME column 

for the “Boston Globe” for 10 

years. 

Leslie Wheeler 

Leslie Wheeler is an author of 

books about American history 

and biographies. Wheeler now 

writes the Miranda Lewis ‘living 

history’ mystery series. She is a 

member of Mystery Writers of 

America and Sisters in Crime, 

serving as Speakers Bureau Coordinator 

for the New England 

Chapter. 

The panel will be moderated 

by Alexis Christopher, a wouldbe 

mystery writer who said she 

is “always looking for potential 

murder sites, victims and unusual 

characters.” Christopher 

is an avid mystery reader and 

member of a local Mystery Circle 

and of Sisters in Crime. 

The organizers, Arts! Ashland 

Alliance and the Friends 

of the Ashland Public Library, 

promise the event will appeal to 

anyone who likes a good story. 

For more information, visit 

http://friendsoftheapl.com/ 

Mystery-author-2017-04-07. 

html or call the library, 508-881- 

0134. 

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Does Chocolate 

Cause Acne? 

Art in the Library 

By Lia Massimiano, Licensed 

Esthetician, Certified Acne 

Specialist Owner Skin Smart 

Salon and Acne Clinic 

There is a lot of misinformation 

about what causes acne. 

Acne is primarily an inherited 

condition. If you have the acne 

gene, the skin cells inside your 

pores shed at an excessive rate, 

causing a buildup of dead cells, 

oil and bacteria. This process is 

what causes acne lesions to form. 

Food and Acne. 

Although, cell build up deep 

inside the pores is the root cause 

of acne, some foods have been 

proven to cause flare-ups for 

many acne suffers. I recommend 

to my acne clients that they try to 

cut back on these food types and 

to start noticing any cause and effect 

with the foods that they eat. 

Common Food Triggers 

Iodides are a trigger for acne 

prone skin and are commonly 

found in salt, shellfish, sushi, seaweed 

supplements and some vitamins. 

Try to limit your intake of 

salty foods. Use Sea Salt at home. 

It contains no iodides. 

Milk is another problem food 

for acne sufferers. The dairy protein 

in milk and cheese stimulates 

hormones that increase oil production 

in the skin. Instead try almond 

or coconut milk. Whey or 

soy protein shakes can also cause 

problems. A better choice would 

be Pea Protein or Egg White 

Powder. 

Foods high in androgens like 

peanuts and peanut butter are 

also problematic for acne prone 

skin. Better alternatives are almonds, 

almond butter or other 

nut butters. 

Supplements to help acne. 

In addition to modifying your 

diet, supplements can be helpful 

when treating acne. The antiinflammatory 

properties of Zinc 

and Omega 3 Fish Oils help reduce 

the severity of cysts and inflamed 

lesions. 

There is no quick fix to clear 

acne, but it can be managed with 

correct home care, professional 

treatments and modified life style 

choices. 

Questions about acne? Call me 

at (508) 881-1180 or email me 

at skinsmartsalon@aol.com. Visit 

skinsmartsalon.com for information on 

my acne clinic and other services. 

DOWNSTAIRS GALLERY 

“Underwater & Nature 

Photography,” Ethan Gordon 

April 4 to 29, 2017 

Ethan Gordon has been 

working as a freelance photojournalist 

primarily in the 

diving, fishing and travel industries 

since 1995. Gordon 

has photographed underwater 

and landscape locations around 

the world and his work has appeared 

in a variety of national 

sport and travel magazines. He 

has served as editor of “Fathoms 

Magazine,” devoted to the 

underwater world. His fascination 

and years of experience 

are reflected in this collection of 

his images of the planet we live 

on, both land and sea. More of 

Gordon’s work can be found at 

www.ethangordon.com. 

Achieve Clear Skin 

Before 

after 

ACNE CLINIC - for all ages 

Take control and manage your acne with a customized treatment 

program designed to clear your unique skin. 

Education. Coaching. Support 

90% of my clients clear in 12-16 weeks 

Lisa Massimiano - Licensed Aesthetician, Acne Specialist 

Certified by the National Face Reality Acne Clinic 

Call to schedule your acne consultation 

508-881-1180 

44 Front Street, 2nd Floor • Ashland 

www.skinsmartsalon.com 

UPSTAIRS DISPLAY CASE 

“Travel Sketchbooks,” 

The On-location Art Journals 

of Jim Eng 

Through June 12, 2017 

LOWER LEVEL 

Photographs by 

Lynne Damianos 

Extended Loan 

Deadline for ASHPAC 

Scholarships is April 24 

The Ashland Parent Advisory 

Council (ASHPAC) 

scholarship application is now 

available on www.ashpac. 

org/forms. Applicants must 

have received services from 

the Ashland Special Education 

Department through an 

IEP or 504 Plan for at least six 

years in public school (three 

of the six years can be under 

a 504 Plan). Two of the six 

years must also be in high 

school. Proof of acceptance 

into college or post secondary 

education is required before 

Sketches by Jim Eng (BF) 

a scholarship will be officially 

awarded. Applicants may submit 

a completed application, 

including an essay or video 

to the Ashland High School 

Guidance Department by 

April 24. ASHPAC awarded 

five scholarships in 2016.


The Gypsy Moth! 

Question/riddle: 

• What sleeps outside under a 

tan colored blanket with its 

1000 closest friends? 

• What wakes (hatches) in the 

spring as the leaves unfurl on 

our favorite trees? 

• Who will be the uninvited 

guest next year at your outdoor 

parties? 

• Who will make your nicely 

shaded yard extra sunny next 

summer? 

• Who can make it sound like 

it is raining outside even in a 

drought? 

Answer: The Gypsy moth caterpillar! 

From eggs (now) to caterpillars 

this spring. 

For many years, the Gypsy 

moth caterpillar population has 

been under control. Mother Nature 

helped her trees by providing 

them with typical wet, New 

England springs and generous 

summer rains. This moisture 

encouraged growth of a fungus 

that attacked the Gypsy moth 

caterpillar to keep it in check. 

The recent dry springs and 

summers, however, have given 

the Gypsy moth caterpillars 

free rein to crawl rampant, eating 

their way through our landscapes 

and forests, and multiply. 

All of the eggs are tucked 

away in fuzzy tan masses waiting 

for the warmth of spring 

to hatch. We have our fingers 

crossed that we will have a damp 

spring to activate the fungus. 

Unfortunately, even with the 

fungus attacking the caterpillars, 

it will not knock the population 

down until after they have done 

most of their damage. 

The Gypsy moth caterpillar 

has favorite trees to dine 

on, but it is not fussy. It’s first 

choice would be oaks, followed 

by maples, birches, elms, willows 

and apples, and even pine 

and spruce! If the infestation is 

heavy enough, almost all shrubs 

and trees will be devoured by 

the Gypsy moth caterpillar. 

All of the trees in this area 

suffered from the drought this 

year. Drought damage followed 

by defoliation may be 

more than some the trees can 

handle. Healthy trees can usually 

survive one complete defoliation, 

but weakened trees may 

succumb to infestation due to 

the loss of their food producing 

foliage. 

What can be done? Aside 

from searching out all the egg 

masses on your trees, stone 

walls, houses and wood piles 

and scraping them into hot 

soapy water, the most effective 

control would be with a foliar 

control application to your 

trees. A qualified arborist can 

advise you on the timing and 

coverage that you would be best 

for your property. A qualified 

Plant Health Care company will 

monitor the degree days which 

determine when the eggs actually 

hatch, and allow them be in 

your neighborhood prior to the 

Gypsy moth caterpillar damage. 

If you would like more information 

on finding a qualified 

Arborist and Plant Health Care 

company in your area, you can 

call the Massachusetts Arborists 

Association at (508) 653-3320 or 

visit massarbor.org 

Harrison McPhee, Inc., Full 

Service Plant Health Care and 

Arboriculture Services, Millis, 

Massachusetts, (508) 520-0084 

office, harrisonmcphee.com 

PREMIER IMAGE GALLERY 

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Looking for NEW Customers? 

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Home Instead Senior Care 

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Adult caterpillar 

The last time we saw a GYPSY MOTH 

INVASION of this magnitude… 

• M*A*S*H was the hit TV show 

• Prince Charles married Lady Di 

• A Super Bowl ad cost you $275,000 

• Sandra Day O’Connor became the 

1st female supreme court justice 

• 13 million acres of forest were 

defoliated by gypsy moth caterpillars 

(more than CT, RI and MA combined) 

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Don’t let those buggers make history again. 

Our certified arborists can help protect your 

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Millis, MA 508-520-0084 harrisonmcphee.com


Because You SAT Down and ACTed 

The pros and cons of standardized tests 

By Neha Shabeer, Sophomore, 

Ashland High School 

While the Class of 2017 has 

recently concluded many stressfilled 

days of SAT preparation, 

campus tours and college applications, 

the Class of 2018 is now 

beginning the anxiety-ridden 

process of standardized testing—the 

SAT I, SAT II (subject 

tests) and ACT. 

Background 

The SAT I Reasoning Test, 

formerly known as the Scholastic 

Aptitude Test, was created 

in 1926 by a nonprofit group 

of universities and other educational 

organizations called the 

College Board. The purpose of 

creating the SAT was to have a 

standard exam for universities to 

assess college-bound seniors creating 

a classless meritocracy for 

college acceptance (Time Magazine). 

The SAT II: Subject Test, 

formerly known as Achievement 

Tests, was founded in 1937 by 

the College Board for colleges 

to consider students’ strengths 

in select subjects (Time). The 

SAT’s counterpart, the ACT, 

formerly known as the American 

College Testing, was created 

in 1959 as competition for 

the SAT’s two-decade long monopoly 

on college entrance tests. 

With the implementation of 

the new SAT in March 2016, 

more schools have been scrutinizing 

their testing policies. 

Pros 

Today, the SAT is considered 

more prestigious and more 

widely accepted in colleges on 

the two coasts, while the ACT 

has its niche in Southern and 

Midwestern schools (Time). According 

to the College Board 

and ACT, over 1.9 million students 

in the Class of 2015 took 

the ACT and 1.7 million students 

took the SAT. The pros of 

such assessments are that they 

combat high school grade inflation 

in college admissions, keep 

students and schools accountable, 

are objectively graded, 

provide school data for federal 

grants, and supply data within 

sub-groups. The thought behind 

the exams is benevolent, 

but there are many flaws with its 

current structure. 

Cons 

The SAT is very ineffective 

in factoring in personal circumstances 

since it is administered 

on the same day at the same 

time across the country. It does 

not account for students’ progress, 

personal circumstances or 

socioeconomic background that 

might affect students’ scores. 

The SAT Reasoning Test is only 

administered once a month between 

the months of October 

and June and SAT II Subject 

Tests are only offered during 

specific months depending on 

the subject (College Board). 

Due to strict college application 

deadlines and cancellation 

fees, it is often not possible for 

students to reschedule test dates 

due to financial reasons or even 

mild sicknesses when one likely 

will not test their best. 

For example, if a student is 

planning to take the SAT Biology 

M exam in January, but falls 

ill to a cold and wants to postpone 

the test, the next opportunity 

to take the test would be in 

May. Since one does not need to 

be on bed rest with a common 

cold, this student would most 

probably still take the exam even 

when they are not feeling their 

best leading to scores that do not 

best reflect their capabilities. 

Additionally, as a timed test, 

the test favors quick, mediocre 

students rather than slow, brilliant 

students. There are many 

stories of students who slack 

in school that get high SAT 

scores and hard-working students 

in school who receive average 

scores (Washington Post). 

The rigid time constraint often 

causes SAT preparation to be 

about knowing the “tricks” of 

the test rather than understanding 

the actual material. This automatically 

gives students from 

a wealthier background that can 

invest in tutors and prep books 

such as the Princeton Review or 

Kaplan an advantage compared 

to students from a low-income 

household. Furthermore, the 

SAT puts students in a pressurized 

environment that does not 

value skills, such as creativity, 

leadership, compassion, integrity, 

or persistence. Test expert 

and tutor at the Princeton Review, 

Edward Carroll, even said, 

“The SAT is a very flawed test 

if you expect it to reveal much 

about student content skill or 

personal study and performance 

ability.” 

Students vs. Students 

The use of the SAT to create 

national percentiles pits 

students against each other 

and causes them to try to outperform 

each other rather than 

working to do the best of their 

abilities. Students can receive 

good scores but still be unhappy 

due to their percentile 

rank. Factors students cannot 

control such as where they live 

matter as well! Juniors who take 

the Preliminary SAT/National 

Merit Scholarship Qualifying 

Test (PSAT/NMSQT) in Massachusetts 

must get much higher 

scores to be in the running for 

the National Merit Scholarship 

than students in places like 

Wyoming that have lower mean 

scores (PrepScholar). This furthers 

the competitive aspect of 

the test rather than quantifying 

personal knowledge. 

Admission Anxiety 

Although anxiety comes from 

taking the test, a lot of confusion 

and anxiety comes from how 

colleges use test scores while 

evaluating applications. With 

a surge in college applications 

in recent years caused by more 

jobs requiring higher education 

and students applying to more 

schools at a time, admissions 

officers are bombarded with 

applications to read (Forbes). 

Consequently, SAT scores are 

used as a quick, easy way to 

cut down the applicant pool 

and choose which applications 

to truly focus on. On the other 

hand, over 900 colleges and 

universities across the country 

have become test-optional or 

test-flexible by using high school 

GPA (grade point average), class 

rank, extracurricular activities, 

and community service instead 

of standardized test scores to 

evaluate students (FairTest). This 

diversifies the campus with minority 

and low-income students 

who usually do not perform as 

well on standardized testing and 

rewards diligent, hardworking 

students throughout their high 

school career (NPR). Examples 

of test-optional schools are 

Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 

Smith College, and George 

Washington University. 

SAT 


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SAT 


Stress on Schools 

Regardless of these options, 

students, parents and high-ranking 

schools will inevitably keep 

putting stress on standardized 

tests. The common core curriculum 

in each state is different 

and due to President Obama’s 

Every Student Succeeds Act, 

teachers need to teach material 

that ensures students’ success 

on annual state-mandated 

benchmark exams (Department 

of Education (DOE)). Success 

on these tests promises funding 

from President Obama’s 

Race to the Top program, so it 

is critical for individual schools 

and states as a whole to do well 

(CNN). 

Therefore, teachers need 

to first focus on teaching statemandated 

curriculum that often 

doesn’t leave extra time to cover 

extra material. Unfortunately 

this leaves many students in a 

lurch when common core isn’t 

in line with topics on the SAT 

Subject Tests. For example, 

plant structure and animal behavior 

were taken out of the 

Massachusetts Biology curriculum 

but is a key topic on the 

SAT Biology E/M test, an important 

test for many students 

applying for science majors to 

show their interest and expertise 

in the subject (DOE, College 

Board). This leaves students who 

want to achieve high scores on 

a path of self-learning complex 

topics and again disadvantages 

students without resources to do 

so. 

I personally believe the 

cons of standardized testing 

outweigh the pros. I look forward 

to witnessing the reform 

of college applications as the 

test-optional and test-flexible 

culture grows and becomes the 

norm. For more about the world 

through my eyes, keep reading 

my monthly column :) 

Irrigation Systems 

and Equipment 

Compliance 

To maximize water conservation, 

the Town of Ashland is 

enforcing compliance policies associated 

with residents’ irrigation 

systems. 

On or before July 1, 2016, 

all irrigation systems shall be 

equipped with rain gauges and 

programmable timers set to operate 

the system within the hours 

allowed under section §270-5 as 

noted in link: https://ecode360. 

com/13018247. 

On or before July 1, 2017, all 

existing irrigation systems shall 

be equipped with the following: 

• A dedicated irrigation water 

meter. 

• A backflow prevention device 

compliant with 310 

CMR 22.22. www.mass. 

gov/eea/docs/dep/service/ 

regulations/310cmr22.pdf 

Please contact your irrigation 

company to assist you with compliancy. 

Should you have any questions, 

call the DPW at 508- 

881-0103 or email dpw@ 

ashlandmass.com. If you leave 

a message, please provide your 

phone number so we can return 

your call. For more information, 

visit www.ashlandmass. 

com/469/Irrigation-Systems. 

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We Will Never Forget: A Tribute to Peach 

By Neha Shabeer, Sophomore, 


On the quiet night of February 

27, everything changed. The 

Ashland community lost a son, 

neighbor, friend, classmate, student, 

teammate and club member. 

While each person feels the 

loss of Brendan Petry in different 

way, one sentiment was felt by 

all: unity. Our entire community 

came together to support one 

another and the Petry family 

during the vigil at St. Bridget’s 

Parish, visitation at Matarese Funeral 

Home, funeral service at St. 

Bridget’s Parish, and for every difficult 

moment in between. 

Words cannot even begin to 

describe how proud I am of how 

our community connected, teachers, 

students, parents and complete 

strangers. The strength and 

tenacity of our town was showcased 

through the therapy dogs 

that provided solace to so many 

students, the understanding of 

teachers, the team of Clockers on 

social media, and private phone 

calls between friends. The efforts 

to honor Brendan at Ashland 

High School (AHS) by endeavors 

such as Groutfit Day (since he was 

known by his monochromatic 

gray fashion) and wearing peach 

ribbons have been outstanding. 

The age-old saying is that you 

remember a person by how they 

made you feel and not by their 

individual accomplishments. 

Brendan was a star athlete on 

the AHS varsity soccer and basketball 

teams, a proud member 

of the Make-a-Wish club, the 

treasurer of the Spanish Club 

and an usher for the Theatrical 

Society, but he is remembered as 

a kind, hilarious and quirky guy 

who always had a smile on his 

face. With impassioned opinions 

and rallying ideas, Brendan was a 

kindred spirit that I’m so lucky to 

have known. Like his uncle, Bob 

Filippone, said, “We need more 

Brendan’s in this world.” 

The following are memories 

from a few of Brendan’s close 

friends from the sophomore class. 

“In my opinion, the most remarkable 

trait Brendan possessed 

was his dedication. He had a work 

ethic like no one I’ve ever seen. If 

there was a club, he was part of it. 

If there was a team, he was part 

of it. If there was a discussion, he 

was part of it. He was so involved 

in our community, always giving 

back, and this is why he will be 

so dearly missed.” Alyssa Crouss 

“He did what he liked to do 

and was great at it. Seeing him 

always making a name for himself 

was a true inspiration to me. 

I hope to one day have the confidence 

and drive to success that 

Peach lived his life with.” Pratit 

Kadimdiwan 

author of the Miranda Lewis mystery series 

Death in Shorts: Learn how to plot, construct & 

populate the mystery short story. 

Timothy Daniels House 

Getting back to your active life is your goal and ours too. Here at the Timothy Daniels House we are 

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between hospital & home. 

♦ On Call Physicians ♦ In House Physical Therapists ♦ Alzheimer’s Support 

♦ 24 Hr Nursing ♦ Short Term Rehab Stays ♦ Hospice Sevices 

(508) 429-4566 

84 Elm Street, Holliston, MA 

www.rehabassociates.com/timothydaniels 

Ashland Mystery Festival 

New England Crime 

Friday, April 7 

7 PM: Mystery Film: A Boston-Based 

Courtroom Drama 

Saturday, April 8 

10 AM to Noon: Writers 

Workshop with Leslie Wheeler, 

author of the Miranda Lewis 

mystery series 

Death in 

Ashland 

Shorts: Learn 

Mystery 

how 

Festival 

to 

plot, construct & populate New England the Crime 

Ashland Public Library 


66 Front Street 

Ashland, MA 7 PM: Mystery Film: A Boston-Based Courtroom Drama 

For more information: 

Call 508-881-0134 


10 AM to Noon: Writers Workshop with Leslie Wheeler, 

Ray Daniel 

Sign up in advance: aplace@ashlandmass.com 

Authors’ Panel & Book Sale 

1 - 4 PM: Ray Daniel, Hallie Ephron & Leslie Wheeler 

Hallie Ephron 

Leslie Wheeler 

2017 Writers 

Panel 

Presented by Arts! Ashland Alliance, Inc & The 

Friends of the Ashland Public Library. Thank 

you to Sisters in Crime, NE Chapter for their 

support and expertise. 

mystery short story. 

Sign up in advance: aplace@ 

ashlandmass.com 

Authors’ Panel & Book Sale 

1 - 4 PM: Ray Daniel, Hallie 

Ephron & Leslie Wheeler 

Ashland Public Library, 

For more information: 

Call 508-881-0134 

“Petry was one in a million. 

Scratch that, he was one in a 

billion. I could always rely on 

those cheesy jokes that he knew 

everyone secretly loved, or him 

constantly asking if I was okay 

when he knew I was having a 

bad day. That’s one of the reasons 

why this is so difficult: if Peach 

was here during a time like this, 

he would be tirelessly working 

to cheer everyone up, putting the 

needs of others in front of his own 

like he always did. He was truly 

a selfless person. His positive demeanor 

could instantly pull anyone 

out of a dark place. The kid 

genuinely cared about other people, 

which is what made him so 

special. He would ask how your 

day was, and he actually wanted 

to hear about it. His sensitivity 

and empathy made him so easy 

to talk to. He was a good guy, and 

not a day will go by that I won’t 

think of him.” Katie Tranguch 

I truly, truly hope and pray a 

tragedy like this will never strike 

Ashland again. Learn from Brendan’s 

life and be a kinder person; 

you never know what troubles lay 

under a person’s pristine exterior. 

Spread a smile, share a compliment, 

and make a joke—it could 

make all the difference in someone’s 

life. Always remember there 

are so many people who care 

about you in this community and 

seek out help if you need it. 

Rest in Peace, Brendan. We 

love and miss you. 

Save 

These 

Dates! 

The Ashland Music Association’s 

4th Annual Mattress Sale 

Fundraiser, Saturday, May 6, 10 

am to 5 pm, at the Ashland Middle 

School Café. All proceeds will 

be used to purchase and repair 

Ashland Public School instruments. 

ama@ashlandmusic.org 

Ashland Lions Golf Tournament 

at the Highfields Golf and 

Country Club, Grafton, Monday, 

May 15. A day of golf, raffles, fun 

to support eye research and local 

charities. Sign up today! Contact 

Tom Heguy, heguyt@comcast. 

net, 508-881-1122, or Paul Ciccolo, 

james146@comcast.net, 

508-881-2397. 

Write in the Wild: Writing 

Workshop at Warren Woods on 

Saturday, May 20, 9:30 am to 

noon, led by writer Giulietta Nardone. 

Space is limited. Sign up by 

calling 508-380-8799 or emailing 

giulietta@giuliettathemuse.com. 

Sponsored by the Board of Selectmen/BAA 

grant. 

Annual Meeting for Friends of 

the Ashland Library at the library, 

Thursday, May 25, 7 to 8 pm. 

Light refreshments. Learn about 

the Friends’ many programs. 

www.friendsoftheapl.com


Ashland’s Water Runs Deep 

By Julie Nardone, 


You turn on the tap and water 

gushes out. But where does it 

come from? Ashland’s water 

originates in an ancient aquifer 

located underneath the manmade 

reservoir at Hopkinton 

State Park. Think of it as a giant 

underground water tank that 

gets replenished through rainfall, 

snow or streams slowly trickling 

down through the soil. 

In the late 1800s, the Hopkinton 

reservoir was created through 

damming Indian Brook, a Sudbury 

River tributary, to provide 

back-up drinking water to the city 

of Boston. Once the Quabbin 

Reservoir opened in the 1940s, 

the Hopkinton Reservoir was no 

longer needed and was reborn as 

a state park. The park lies in both 

Hopkinton and Ashland. 

Ashland has a state-of-the art 

water treatment plant. To learn 

more about it, I met with Jeff 

Fournier, plant manager and 

Woodard and Curran contractor, 

and Roy Correia, DPW general 

foreman, who gave me an extensive 

tour of the buildings and the 

grounds. Two main buildings, 

water treatment and control, 

watch guard over a horseshoe of 

five small well houses (4, 5, 6, 7 

and 8) set within a hundred feet 

of the reservoir. 

Inside the control building, a 

sophisticated hardware and software 

system called SCADA monitors 

the water levels in the five 

wells and allows them to be sped 

up or slowed down as needed. 

Well use is staggered, so each can 

pump to capacity while others 

rest and refill. If the water level 

drops lower than five feet below 

the well’s expensive screen, a protective 

device that acts as a filter 

to keep out pebbles and debris, an 

alarm goes off and system protections 

get implemented. 

Between the 1950s and the 

1990s, the town drilled these 

wells due to their proximity to the 

aquifer not the reservoir. Fournier 

explained that “the wells are not 

under the influence of the lake.” 

Well Pump Number 5. (Photo/Roy Correia) 

Well houses as seen from the treatment plant. (Photo/Roy Correia) 

Good news for folks who do not 

cherish the idea of drinking water 

people plashed around in all summer. 

The wells descend 35 to 40 

feet into the aquifer where they 

vacuum up the groundwater, 

which gets piped into the plant 

where it undergoes disinfection 

with chloramine and ozone. 

Once the water passes Ashland’s 

strict quality control, it gets distributed 

to homes and businesses 

through 80 miles of pipes by two 

methods of pressure: Dynamic, 

by the pumps when they are 

running, and Static, by the high 

elevation of the two enormous 

water towers on Cedar Street 

and Woodridge Lane when the 

system has reached capacity and 

the pumps have turned off. 

The town’s two water towers 

serve several purposes. First, 

they hold the water unused by 

consumers, often up to several 

million gallons. During an emergency, 

such as a broken water 

main or a fire, the stored water 

circulates into the system to provide 

backup until the broken 

pipe gets repaired or the fire 

gets extinguished. Second, the 

towers are integral to the town’s 

water pressure system. When 

the water levels drop in the towers, 

the pumps turn back on and 

the water extraction cycle starts 

all over again. If you live closer 

to the tanks your water pressure 

might be higher than if you live 

farther away. This is due to variations 

in geological elevations. 

To ensure the water in the 

tanks does not stagnate and produce 

microbiological growth, the 

staff rigorously tests the water for 

plate counts, residuals and ph. If 

levels begin to exceed normal, 

the staff circulates the tank water 

through the system. 

When the Hopkinton reservoir 

drops to 295.85 feet (above 

sea level), an agreement with the 

Mass. Department of Environmental 

Protection (DEP) triggers 

a Stage One Water Ban, 

and below 295.35, a Stage Two 

Water Ban. The DEP requires 

those bans to ensure optimum 

Hopkinton reservoir levels during 

the park’s summer operating 

months. 

Despite going through several 

water bans and a serious drought 

during the summer and fall of 

2016, the well screens have never 

been damaged and the wells have 

never sucked in air. “I would 

never let that happen,” Correia 

said. “There are system alarms in 

place that notify personnel. When 

this level is approached, the Town 

enacts water conservation.” 

Fortunately for residents, 

Patricia Brosnihan 

Dance Center 

SUMMER PROGRAMS 

Please 

register by 

April 15th! 

Ashland has one of the best 

water treatment plants in Massachusetts, 

run by highly skilled 

operators and one of only three 

with a state-of-the-art ozone generator. 

It has also won awards. 

In 2012, New England Water 

Works Association awarded it the 

Utility of the Year and Massachusetts 

Water Works Association 

awarded the Water Works Pride 

to Fournier. 

Next time you turn on the faucet 

to fill up a saucepan, brush 

your teeth or take a shower, give 

special thanks to the sophisticated 

monitoring and water testing that 

takes place to bring you that clean 

water. One in ten or 663 million 

people around the world do not 

have access to safe water. 

3 Year Olds 

Cinderella 

Pre-Ballet with Arts & Crafts 

August 14-18 • 8:30-9:30am 

4 - 5 Year Olds 

Sleeping Beauty 

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August 14-18 • 9:30-11:30am 


Coppelia 

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Burning Up The Dance Floor 

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www.pbdancecenter.com


Distractology 101: 

Promoting Safe 

Driving 

Ashland Scouts in Winter 

By Eryn Flynn, Freshman, 


Ashland High School’s (AHS) 

Students Against Destructive 

Decisions (SADD) club recently 

hosted a weeklong program to 

encourage students to become 

safe drivers. Simulators provided 

a driving test and calculated possible 

effects of distracted driving. 

This test course is called 

Distractology, or the science of 

distracted driving (www.distractology.com). 

The Distractology test takes 

place in a trailer with two driving 

simulators with the controls 

of an ordinary car. To take the 

30-minute test, students sat at the 

controls and were presented with 

everyday driving distractions, like 

texting, adjusting the radio or interacting 

with other passengers in 

the car. Common road hazards 

were also presented. The simulator 

then measured the driver’s 

reaction times and predicted a 

possible outcome, such as the car 

crashing into a tree, another car, 

or a bicyclist. 

AHS guidance counselor and 

SADD advisor Mr. Brian Garrigan 

explained the program’s 

goal: “To demonstrate the potentially 

destructive and fatal effects 

of distracted driving, and have 

students actually experience a 

simulation of what that’s like.” 

The Distractology simulator 

was completely booked for the 

entire week; 80 students completed 

the simulator. Distractology 

was hosted at AHS once 

before, in October 2013. The 

SADD club hopes that it can be 

brought back in a few years for 

the next wave of new and developing 

student drivers. 

Mr. Garrigan said the Distractology 

course relates to each of 

AHS’s five core values. Students 

practice involvement by “volunteering 

to go through the Distractology 

program for personal 

growth,” and show respect by 

“wanting to be a better driver out 

of a concern that other drivers, 

passengers in your car and pedestrians 

are safe.” They demonstrate 

responsibility by “making a 

conscious choice to try and be a 

better, safer driver,” and achievement 

by “working through the 

same simulations multiple times 

in order to improve [their] reaction 

time.” Lastly, participation 

in Distractology shows integrity 

by the students’ “knowing that 

distracted driving can have disastrous 

results, and choosing to try 

and better [themselves].” 

AHS chose to host Distractology 

because distracted driving 

is commonplace and can have 

serious consequences. According 

to one study, 21 percent of 

teen driving fatalities involve 

cell phone distraction. Another 

study shows a higher incidence 

of traffic accidents among young 

drivers when accompanied by 

passengers. Other distractions 

come from the radio, Bluetooth, 

GPS and other devices, as well as 

from eating and drinking while 

driving. 

Mr. Garrigan, as well as the 

whole of AHS, would like to 

thank Chris Fitts from Fitts Insurancy 

in Framingham, Arbella 

Insurance, and the SADD club 

for making Distractology possible 

this year. 

So, in a world of many distractions, 

remember that it is up 

to you to be safe, and to keep 

your eyes on the road, no matter 

how old you are. 

Den 4 Webelo Scouts James Bodnar, Nathan Gerlovin, William Pyne and Ethan Hutter visit the Ashland Fire 

Station. (Photos/submitted) 

The Cub Scouts have been 

busy this winter visiting the 

Ashland Fire Station and learning 

first responder skills, baking 

for and performing at the 

Ashland Senior Center, taking 

apart and “fixing” old computers, 

and more! 

In March, the scouts held 

their annual Blue and Gold 

Dinner, where the most senior 

scouts “crossed over” into Boy 

Scouts. Learn more about what 

Scouting is about! For more 

information, visit ww.pack1- 

ashlandma.org. 

Den 4 Webelo Scouts hold a saw after a tour of the Cedar Street Fire 

Station with Fire Lieutenant Matthew Boland. 

Den 6 Wolf Scouts 

entertain Seniors 

at the Ashland 

Senior Center. 

POWER WASHING 

Call Mauricio 

508-202-8602 

Homes, Decks, Roofs, Walks and more…


Rep. Lewis Named to 

Several Committees 

PLUMBING • AIR CONDITIONING • HEATING 

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Licensed & 

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Rep. Jack Patrick Lewis 

(D-7 th Middlesex District) was 

named to four committees in 

the legislature last month: Environment, 

Natural Resources 

and Agriculture; Public Health; 

Children, Families and People 

with Disabilities; and Public 

Service. After taking office in 

January, Lewis said he is excited 

to get started on this work. The 

first batches of bills have been 

assigned to their committees, 

including three of the Representative’s 

own bills. 

“I am truly honored to be 

serving on these committees,” 

Lewis said. “These committees 

deal with issues related to 

my personal and professional 

background and resonate with 

core components of my campaign. 

I am grateful to the 

Speaker for choosing committees 

that will allow me to best 

serve the residents of Ashland 

and Framingham. In particular, 

I am eager to continue former 

Representative Tom Sannicandro’s 

work as a champion for 

our children and families, especially 

those with intellectual or 

developmental disabilities, in 

my role on the Joint Committee 

on Children, Families, and 

Persons with Disabilities.” 

Internships available. Rep. 

Lewis’ office is still accepting 

internship applications at this 

time. Those interested should 

contact his legislative aide Sara 

Fontes at sara.fontes@mahouse. 

gov to request an application. 

PLEASE RECYCLE 

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508-497-6344 

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15 W. Union St, Ashland • KnowledgePointsTutors.com 

Developing Ashland’s Economy 

By Beth Reynolds, 

Economic Development 

Director 

This past January marked 

my one-year anniversary as 

Ashland’s Economic Development 

Director, and it has been 

a busy year! Our business community 

is thriving, and I think 

business owners are feeling 

more connected than ever. We 

have seen several new businesses 

move in and have retained 

those that chose Ashland 

for their home. I thank Ashland 

residents for their continued 

support of our businesses. 

Please continue to think and 

shop local for all your needs; it 

makes a difference. 

We now have a number of 

resources available for businesses 

and the community: a 

business directory on the town 

website listing all Ashland businesses, 

contact information 

and category; a community 

calendar on the town website 

to strengthen community 

outreach; and a guide for new 

businesses and/or developers to 

help in planning. 

We also have implemented 

several formal activities to bring 

businesses together for networking 

with other business owners 

and town government officials: 

ribbon cuttings, in cooperation 

with the Ashland Business Association, 

to welcome new businesses 

to town and monthly 

business Meet and Greets. 

This past year, Ashland received 

Bronze status as a Bio 

Ready Community from the 

Massachusetts Biotechnology 

Council and we rolled out The 

Corner Spot initiative, which 

raised over $38,000, exceeding 

the goal of $25,000 that Mass- 

Development will match. The 

Corner Spot is slated to open 

June through October with 

pop-up businesses and a park 

for residents to enjoy. 

7/1 ARM Adjustable Rate Mortgage 

3. 115 % 

508.381.5299 

MilfordFederal.com 

Milford • Whitinsville • Woonsocket 

3. 70 % 

Rate Annual* 

Percentage 

Rate 

• No Private Mortgage Insurance - Max 90% LTV 

• No points, low closing costs 

• Portfolio loan amounts up to $450,000 

• Loan Serviced by Milford Federal 

• Loans up to $1mil available at different rates 

Tom Brennick 

Mortgage Loan 

Specialist 

NMLS# 1233620 

What’s In Store for 2017. 

I am planning for continued 

commercial growth, greater regional 

and local collaboration, 

and strengthening of our wonderful 

community. I am excited 

to see our community enjoy 

The Corner Spot at 6 Cherry 

St., and can’t wait to see what 

businesses pop up there in June! 

I will be working hard to create 

events that focus on connecting 

businesses with the community. 

I hope to see changes in downtown 

Ashland as we continue 

with our plans for its revitalization. 

Working with businesses 

directly to help them connect 

with each other as well as attracting 

new business to our 

friendly community is of the 

utmost importance. 

My door is always open; I 

welcome new ideas, feedback 

and of course new business! 

Contact me at breynolds@ 

ashlandmass.com or 508-532- 

7905. 

Jing’s Garden 

in Holliston is 

HIRING DELIVERY DRIVERS 

Shifts available Monday thru Friday 5-9pm 

One driver or divide between several drivers 

Call or text 508.523.7771 

*APR based on $100,000 @ 80% LTV. 84 monthly payments of $4.28 per $1,000 borrowed at initial rate on a 30 year term followed 

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to change without notice. APR may increase after consummation. Other conditions affecting APR may apply. NMLS# 465956.


Locks of Love 

By Cece Doucette, 


Ashland High senior Julia 

Doucette recently made her sixth 

hair donation to Locks of Love. 

“It’s a family tradition,” Doucette 

said. “My sister, Zoe, my mom 

and I have donated every couple 

of years since I was little. It feels 

good knowing our hair can help 

children feel better about themselves 

during a rough time.” 

Locks of Love is a non-profit 

organization that provides hairpieces 

to financially disadvantaged 

children under age 21 

suffering from long-term medical 

hair loss from any diagnosis. 

Others wishing to donate 

should be able to contribute 10 

inches or more; hair must be in 

ponytails or braids before it is cut. 

Locks of Love also welcomes financial 

donations to help defray 

the cost of making the hairpieces. 

For more information, visit locksoflove.org. 

Twelve inches 

tip-to-tip! 

School Menus 

April 2017 

Ashland Elementary Schools 

Ashland Elementary Schools “Building A Brighter Tomorrow Out of a Healthier Today” April 2017 

Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri 

3 4 5 6 7 

The Local Burger 

Pizza Party! 

Mucho Nachos “V” 

With Cheese 

Assorted 

Tortilla Chips with Seasoned 

Onions and Peppers 

Pizzas “V” 

Beef, Refried Beans 

Sweet Potato Fries Caesar Salad 

Cheese, Lettuce & Salsa 

Seasoned Corn 

Opening Day! 

Hot Dog On a Bun 

Crispy Oven Fries 

Popcorn! 

Saucy 

Meatball 

Sub 

Garlicky Green Beans 

Chicken Nuggets 

Oven Roasted 

Carrots and 

Cauliflower 

10 11 12 13 14 

Roast Turkey Dinner Pizza Party! 

Clocker Pancakes 

Sweet Potatoes 

Assorted 

With Warm Blueberry 

Savory Stuffing Warm Pizzas “V” 

Compote “V” 

Dinner Roll 

Caesar Salad 

Breakfast Sausage 

No 

School 

17 18 19 20 21 

No 

School 

Grilled 

Cheese 

Sandwich 

Tomato Soup 

No 

School 

No 

School 

No 

School 

No 

School 

24 25 26 27 28 

Chicken 

Pizza Party! 


and 

Assorted 


Broccoli Alfredo 



Over Penne 

Caesar Salad 


Seasoned Corn 

Questions or Comments? 

Contact 

Lisa Beaudin, Director of 

Nutrition Services 

(508) 881-0165 

lbeaudin@ashland.k12.ma.us 

PLEASE NOTE: 

If you have a food allergy 

please contact the Nutrition 

Services Department before 

purchasing a meal “V” is or 

can be made vegetarian 

Our Food 

is Fresh 

Our Staff 

is the Best 

Caribbean Fish Taco 

Plantains 

Sweet and Tangy 

Orange Rice 

Enjoy our 

Meals 

You’ll love 

How You Feel! 

Breakfast $1.25 Reduced $ .30 Lunch $2.50 Reduced $.40 Milk $.50 

Served Daily: Assorted Cold Milk, 100% Juice Cups, Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Menu subject to change without notice 

FREE SOUP WITH EVERY MEAL ON MONDAY, WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY (Friday’s soup is always vegetarian) 

Alternate lunches (including vegetarian items) available daily: Sandwiches, Salads, Fabulous Finger Food and Veggie Plates 

Mon: Pizza Tues: Pasta Wed: Chicken Caesar Salad Thurs: Warm Bagels Fri: Pizza 

This Institution is an Equal Opportunity Employer 

Ashland stylist 

Amanda Guillet at 

Hair 101 ensures 

the 10” minimum 

donation. 

(Photos/submitted) 

Gardener Plus 

Your old fashioned perennial gardener 

SPRING & FALL CLEAN-UPS 

Planting • Pruning • Weeding • Mulching 

~Call for our full list of services~ 

Washington Barbalho 508.881.2264 

Ashland Secondary Schools 

Ashland Secondary Schools “Building A Brighter Tomorrow Out of a Healthier Today” April 2017 

Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri 

3 4 5 6 7 

The Local Burger 

Pizza Party! 


With Cheese 

Assorted 


Onions and Peppers 



Sweet Potato Fries Caesar Salad 


Seasoned Corn 

Opening Day! 

Hot Dog On a Bun 

Crispy Oven Fries 

Popcorn! 

Saucy 

Meatball 

Sub 

Garlicky Green Beans 

Chicken Nuggets 

Oven Roasted 

Carrots and 

Cauliflower 

10 11 12 13 14 

Roast Turkey Dinner Pizza Party! 

Clocker Pancakes 

Sweet Potatoes 

Assorted 

With Warm Blueberry 

Savory Stuffing Warm Pizzas “V” 

Compote “V” 

Dinner Roll 

Caesar Salad 

Breakfast Sausage 

No 

School 

17 18 19 20 21 

No 

School 

Grilled 

Cheese 

Sandwich 

Tomato Soup 

No 

School 

No 

School 

No 

School 

No 

School 

24 25 26 27 28 

Chicken 

Pizza Party! 


and 

Assorted 


Broccoli Alfredo 



Over Penne 

Caesar Salad 


Seasoned Corn 

Questions or Comments? 

Contact 

Lisa Beaudin, Director of 

Nutrition Services 

(508) 881-0165 

lbeaudin@ashland.k12.ma.us 

PLEASE NOTE: 

If you have a food allergy 

please contact the Nutrition 

Services Department before 

purchasing a meal “V” is or 

can be made vegetarian 

Our Food 

is Fresh 

Our Staff 

is the Best 

Breakfast $1.25 Reduced $ .30 Lunch $2.75 Reduced $.40 Milk $.50 

Alternate lunches available daily: A Wide Variety of Sandwiches, Salads and Veggie Plates “V” 

Mon & Fri Pizza, Tues Chicken Patties, Thurs Burgers. 

FREE SOUP WITH EVERY MEAL ON MONDAY, WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY (Friday’s soup is always vegetarian) 

Served Daily: Assorted Cold Milk, 100% Juice Cups, Fresh Fruit and Vegetables 

This Institution is an Equal Opportunity Employer 

Menu subject to change without notice 

Caribbean Fish Taco 

Plantains 

Sweet and Tangy 

Orange Rice 

Enjoy our 

Meals 

You’ll love 

How You Feel! 

“Building a Brighter Tomorrow Out of a Healthier Today”


Ashland’s Earth Day: 

Residents Invited to 

Clean Up the Town, May 6 


GreenUp Ashland will hold 

its annual event to celebrate 

Earth Day on Saturday, May 

6, 9 a.m. to noon. Residents of 

all ages are invited to participate. 

Individuals and groups 

will clean up parks and neighborhoods 

and along streets 

and rivers. Organizers say 

this is a great opportunity for 

residents to enjoy the outdoors 

with family and friends while 

contributing to their community 

and neighborhood. 

Three Locations to Register 

for Clean Up. Residents may 

register in advance on online, 

www.GreenUpAshland.org, or 

on the day of the event at the 

Stone Park Pavilion or at three 

satellite locations: downtown, 

near Sunnyside Café; outside 

Encompass Fitness Center, 

200 Homer Ave.; or outside 

Focus on Fitness, 290 Eliot St. 

Residents should bring 

work gloves and water and 

wear sturdy shoes and bright 

clothing for safety. Residents 

may leave bags they fill with 

rubbish and roadside litter on 

the curbside for pickup by the 

Ashland Department of Public 

Works. 

The event is organized by 

(Photo/Deborah Grady, www.deborahgradyphotographs.com) 

the citizens’ committee, GreenUp 

Ashland, in cooperation 

with town departments. The 

committee is comprised of 

Karyn Dann, Janet Gamache, 

Mark Oram, David Rubenstein 

and Jeanne Walker. This 

year’s business sponsors include 

Waste Management, Inc. 

Event Volunteers Needed 

The GreenUp Ashland 

committee needs help distributing 

bags, registering participants, 

tracking clean up 

locations, and setting up and 

organizing the morning of the 

event. Volunteers who assist 

will be treated to coffee, donuts, 

t-shirts and collapsible, 

BPA-free water bottles. 

For more information, 

email info@greenupashland. 

org, visit www.greenupashland.org 

and www.facebook. 

com/GreenUpAshland, or, 

to volunteer, call the Ashland 

Board of Health, 508-881- 

0100, or extension 7128 or 

7922 for Health Agent Mark 

Oram. 

Ashland residents invited 

to work together on Ashland’s 

Earth Day. 

Ashland’s Decisions at Every Turn Coalition: 

Ten Tips for 

Communicating with 

Your Grandchild 

Did you know that by strengthening 

lines of communication 

and letting your grandchild know 

you care, you’re building protective 

factors — which helps you 

play an important role in deterring 

him or her from trying drugs 

and alcohol? Here are 10 ways to 

have healthy, productive conversations 

with your grandchild: 

1. It’s important to talk with 

your grandchild. A lot. Take a 

walk or go for a drive with her. 

When there’s not much eye contact, 

she won’t feel like she’s under 

a microscope. 

2. Listen to your grandchild respectfully 

and without judgment. 

If you’re less critical, he will feel 

he can trust you more. 

3. Have conversations with 

your grandchild on a variety of 

topics — activities, friends, school, 

job, hobbies, current events, and 

so forth. 

4. Strive for honest and direct 

communication. 

5. Listen to your grandchild’s 

cares and concerns. She will 

then feel more comfortable to 

open up to you when she needs 

your advice. 

6. Take an active interest in the 

details of your grandchild’s life. 

7. Take time to learn about 

your grandchild’s hobbies — and 

share your skills as well. 

8. Give praise and positive 

feedback. 

9. Offer encouragement for 

achievements — both large and 

small — and be sure to attend at 

least some of your grandchild’s 

activities so he knows what he’s 

doing is important to you. 

10. Let your grandchild know 

that you are always there for him 

or her — no matter what happens. 

Make sure that he or she 

knows to come to you for help or 

information. 

Ashland’s Decisions at Every 

Turn (DAET) Coalition is pleased 

to share this information from 

The Partnership for Drug-Free 

Kids. For more information, visit 

www.drugfree.org. To learn more 

about DAET or to join our email 

list, visit www.AshlandDecisions. 

org. 

Relax at METROWEST DENTAL 

Water Meter Replacement 

The Town of Ashland, 

Water Department is replacing 

old and outdated water meters 

for residential and small business 

customers at no cost to residents. 

The Water Department 

owns the meters and electronic 

reading devices and will need 

entry to each property to replace 

the meter. 

Many of the current meters 

and electronic reading devices 

were installed years ago and 

need to be read manually. The 

new meters provide reliable 

readings, which help customers 

identify plumbing leaks that 

may result in higher-than-normal 

bills. Also the new meters 

eliminate the need for a water 

meter reader to visit the home, 

once the meter and radio have 

been installed. 

To verify if your water meter 

is outdated and you are eligible 

for a new meter, please email 

New England 

Steak & Seafood Restaurant 

Make Your Easter Reservations NOW! 

12:00 noon 

12:30 pm 

1:00 pm 

your address and phone number 

to dpw@ashlandmass.com. 

For more information, visit 

www.ashlandmass.com/168/ 

Water-Meter-Replacement- 

Program. 

9 SEATING TIMES AVAILABLE: 

2:30 pm 

3:00 pm 

3:30 pm 

5:00 pm 

5:30 pm 

6:00 pm 

Route 16, Mendon • 508-473-5079 

www.nesteakandseafood.com 

Family and General Dentistry 

Cleanings • Exams • Fillings • Crowns 

Our Specialties 

Sedation Dentistry • Implant Placements & Restorations 

Cosmetic Dentistry • Oral Surgery and Root Canals 

Free Consultation on sedation dentistry and dental implants 

Selim C. Alptekin, D.M.D. 

214 Main St., Ashland, MA • 508-881-1290 

metrowestdentalcare@gmail.com 

Dr. Sal


Sports 

Ashland Fencers Compete in Junior Olympics, 

Aim for Nationals 

By Christopher Tremblay, 

Staff Sports Writer 

Three Ashland athletes were 

part of the Zeta Fencing Team 

that participated in the 2017 Junior 

Olympics in Kansas City, 

Missouri, over four days in February. 

Cameron Sherr, Jonathan 

and Nicholas Conroy, and 94 

Massachusetts fencers from 14 

different clubs throughout the 

state made the trip to show off 

their fencing skills at the Kansas 

City Convention Hall. 

Under the guidance of their 

coaches Dimo Boyko and Zoran 

Tulum, the three Ashland athletes 

performed admirably in 

their first-ever Junior Olympics. 

Nicholas Conroy grabbed an 

81 st place finish among 237 participants 

in the Junior (under 20) 

category while also taking home 

a 107 th place finish in the Cadet 

(under 17) category, where 226 

fencers participated. Jonathan 

Conroy was 91 st and Sherr was 

141 st in the Cadet group, where 

all three Ashland fencers fought 

in saber fencing. 

“While these results don’t 

look impressive by themselves, 

you must keep in mind that 

these are the National Championships 

and all fencers had to 

qualify to compete there,” Eva 

Heinrich, Executive Director of 

Zeta Fencing, said.” 

Zeta Fencing qualified the 

most saber fencers from the state 

of Massachusetts for the competition 

in Kansas City. While 

other clubs have foil or epee 

fencers, Zeta specializes in on 

one fencing discipline – saber. 

The saber is a light cutting and 

thrusting weapon that targets 

the body above the waist except 

the weapon hand. 

Contestants wear leme jackets 

and a mask that are electrified 

to show hits during competition, 

but the ultimate point-scoring 

falls to the referees. Competitions 

usually consist of two 

rounds; the first is pool play 

where 5 touches gets the win; 

the second round has participants 

seeded through the results 

of their pool play wins as well as 

touches for and against. In the 

second round, participants look 

to record 15 touches first for the 

win in a direct elimination. 

All three Ashland residents 

came across fencing in somewhat 

of a similar way – by process 

of elimination. 

“I had previously tried other 

sports and never found one that 

I liked,” Jonathan Conroy said. 

“I first came across fencing at 

summer camp, and I’ve stuck 

with it. You have to think tactically 

as well as perform physically.” 

Conroy’s twin brother Nicholas 

agreed. “We had played 

around with plastic swords as 

kids, so when we saw the activity 

being offered at camp, 

we decided to try it out,” he 

said. “We had a mini tournament 

at the end of camp, and 

I won so I decided to continue 

with it. There’s a mental aspect 

of the sport where you have to 

outthink your opponent that I 

like; you’ve got to try and figure 

out what they’re planning to do 

ahead of time.” 

Sherr also came across the 

sport of fencing much the same 

way Jonathan Conroy came 

about it, although it was actually 

his parents that found Zeta 

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Nicholas Conroy, Cameron Sherr and Jonathan Conroy (left to right). (Photo/submitted) 

Fencing in Natick. 

“I got involved in fencing 

mostly because I was bad at 

just about every sport that I had 

tried. I tend to rely on myself, 

and fencing gave me a feeling of 

accomplishment,” Sherr said. 

“When I was nine years old, my 

mother saw an article on the 

Zeta Fencing Club and thought 

it would be a good idea to try; 

I figured why not—what nine 

year old doesn’t like welding a 

weapon.” 

As Heinrich alluded to the 

finishes for the Ashland trio 

were not all that bad and the 

boys also thought that their performances 

in their first visit to 

the Junior Olympics didn’t go 

all that bad. 

“Overall I was disappointed 

in my results (91 st ) although I did 

finish in the upper half of the 

group,” Jonathan said. “In the 

direct elimination I feel that I 

fenced stupidly and that resulted 

in my loss. I do want to qualify 

again next year and perform at 

a higher level.” 

His brother, who was able to 

qualify and compete in two different 

tournaments, was happy 

with his performance in Juniors 

but thought that he could have 

done better in his Cadet competition. 

He, too, wants to qualify 

once again next year to improve 

upon his scores. 

Sherr, a sophomore at Ashland 

High School, had a lot of 

emotions running through his 

mind during his performance, 

but wouldn’t give it up for anything. 

“Being that this was my 

first Junior Olympics I was excited 

and nervous at the same 

time because of the size of the 

tournament,” he said. “I felt 

great during my performance 

and did fine. I would like to continue 

to qualify. Fencing is physical 

chess in terms of movement 

thinking, and I have learned a 

lot of self reliability though it.” 

Although the Junior Olympics 

have concluded, the trio 

will now go back to practicing 

four nights a week and Sunday 

mornings through the month of 

June in hopes of earning a spot 

in the U.S. Nationals come July.


Sports 

Ashland Nine Stays Consistent and Competitive 

By Ken Hamwey, 

Staff Sports Writer 

Matt Messer is starting his 

fifth year as Ashland High’s 

baseball coach, and if it’s anything 

like his first four seasons, 

then there’ll be successful results 

and a date in the post-season 

tournament. 

During Messer’s first four 

years, the Clockers have qualified 

for tourney play all four 

campaigns. Last season was a 

typical Ashland season on the 

diamond as the Clockers finished 

15-5 overall, then split 

a pair of games in the playoffs 

where they were eliminated by 

Bourne. Messer, who teaches 

physical education and health at 

the high school, has a four-year 

record of 51-29, good for a winning 

percentage of 64. 

“What’s important is that 

our players keep learning every 

day,’’ he said. “As coaches, we 

teach kids to compete. And, if 

they’re striving for excellence 

and working hard, then the wins 

will take care of themselves. The 

key is to turn out kids to be good 

men. Learning life lessons is a 

big part of competing in athletics.’’ 

The 30-year-old Messer, who 

was a three-sport athlete at Milford 

High, lost seven players to 

graduation, but he’s got a core 

group of seven returnees who’ll 

try to keep Ashland’s tourney 

streak alive. Where the Clockers 

will have to overachieve is 

in the pitching department. 

Left-hander Shawn Babineau 

has graduated and along with 

him went his 6-1 record and an 

earned-run average of 1.14. A 

Tri Valley League (TVL) all-star, 

he’s playing now for Springfield 

College. 

“There’s no doubt we lack 

depth on the mound,’’ Messer 

said as he prepares for Ashland’s 

opener at Hopkinton on April 

5. “We’re thin there, but we do 

have Luke Gustavson and Shane 

Leary back. This year, we’ll be 

focusing on offense. We’re hoping 

our kids get runs and supply 

some power. Defensively, 

Two players that Ashland coach Matt Messer (back to camera) will be 

counting on are pitcher Luke Gustavson (7) and catcher Erich Vinacco, far 

right. Gustavson has a two-year earned run average of 2.29 and an 8-5 

record for two campaigns. Vinacco is a top-notch defensive catcher who 

hit .346 last year. (Photo/supplied) 

we should be steady. Our prime 

strengths are experience, athleticism, 

our work ethic and our 

competitive nature. If we improve 

daily and compete hard, 

then we should be in the playoff 

mix.’’ 

Gustavson, a junior lefthander, 

and Leary, a senior 

right-handed hurler, will be 

Messer’s one-two punch on the 

mound. Gustavson’s first two 

seasons have produced an 8-5 

record and a 2.29 E.R.A. Leary 

had a 1-1 record and a 2.33 

E.R.A. last year, striking out 15 

hitters in 15 innings. He also 

batted .314 and had an on-base 

percentage of .472. 

“Luke is a competitor,’’ 

Messer said. “His delivery is 

smooth. He’s got a good fastball 

and he throws a curve and 

change-up. He’s excellent under 

pressure and his control is very 

good. Shane’s best pitch is his 

fastball. His curve, change-up 

and control are good. We used 

him in relief last year as our 

closer.’’ 

While still assembling his 

pitching staff at “Local Town 

Pages” deadline, Messer is hoping 

that senior Jacob Morrison, 

who played on the jayvees last 

year, will be a contributor either 

as a starter or in relief. “Jacob is 

a right-hander who throws hard, 

utilizing a sidearm delivery,’’ 

Messer noted. 

Ashland’s infield likely will 

feature Gustavson at first base, 

when he’s not pitching, and junior 

Evan Smith, senior Michael 

Crupi at second, sophomore 

Jackson Hornung at shortstop 

and senior Ronan Bates at third. 

“Luke is phenomenal on 

defense,’’ Messer said. “We’re 

hoping his hitting improves. 

Evan can hit and his fielding 

his stead. Michael is a line-drive 

hitter who’s aggressive at the 

plate. He’s a good fielder, too. 

Jackson hit .263 as a freshman 

in six games. That’s a small 

sample size, but he’s a solid contact 

hitter with patience. In the 

Please Visit Our Website to Read Online www.localtownpages.com 

field, he’s poised, has range and 

a strong arm. Ronan is a threeyear 

veteran who works hard, 

has a strong arm and is steady 

in the field. He drove in 12 runs 

last year. He can also catch.’’ 

Senior Erich Vinacco will 

be behind the plate along with 

Bates and senior Trevor Gustavson, 

who’s transferred from St. 

John’s of Shrewsbury. 

“Erich hit .346 and two homers 

and had a slugging percentage 

of .615 last year,’’ Messer 

emphasized. “He blocks the 

plate well, has a strong arm and 

calls a good game. He’ll play 

college ball next year at Emerson. 

He’s also versatile, able 

to play the outfield or infield. 

Ronan provides good defense 

and Trevor played half of St. 

John’s schedule.’’ 

Senior Joe Schelling and 

Leary will be two key players in 

the outfield. Smith and Vinacco 

also will get playing time there. 

Schelling is a quality athlete, hitting 

.347 last year. He also drove 

in 14 runs, drew nine walks and 

had an on-base percentage of 

.476. Leary hit .314 and had an 

on-base percentage of .472. 

“Joe and Shane are threeyear 

veterans,’’ Messer said. 

“Joe is a good athlete, out best 

defensive outfielder. He’s got 

speed, he’s a tough competitor 

and he’s solid on offense. He hits 

for power and he’s very coachable. 

Shane is a consistent hitter 

who has power and hits mostly 

line drives. Smith and Vinacco 

are capable fielders with strong 

arms.’’ 

Messer always has his team 

prepared to contend for the 

TVL title. But, defending champion 

Medway will be competitive 

and Medfield, Bellingham 

and Hopkinton are talented and 

traditionally solid. Messer, however, 

hasn’t ruled out Ashland as 

a potential contender. 

“We’ll strive to contend for 

the league title,’’ he said, “but 

it’s not something we talk about. 

We aim for it quietly.’’ 

Ashland’s quiet and traditionally 

consistent approach to 

competing could create some 

noise in the TVL this year. The 

Clockers will not be a team to 

take lightly. 

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Post-Surgical Rehabilitation 

Musculoskeletal Pain 

One on One Physical Therapy Sessions 

Monday thru Thursday 7am – 7pm, Friday 7am – 3:30pm 

All major insurances accepted 

508-881-6750 

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Ashland Community Calendar 

Mondays 

11:45 am: Lunch at the Ashland 

Community-Senior Center. 

Cost: $3, must be paid in person 

by 3:30 pm the Thursday before. 

First and Third Mondays 

9:15 to 11 am: Blood Pressure 

check at the Ashland Community-Senior 

Center. www.ashlandmass.com/429/Activities 

Tuesdays 

12 pm to 1 pm: Ashland 

Business Builders Networking 

Group, a networking lunch 

(bring your own bag lunch) at 

Fitness Together, 126 Commerce 

Park Plaza (Past UPS), 

200 Butterfield Dr. RSVP to 

Bob Savin, 508-438-0050, bobsavin@fitnesstogether.com. 

Every Fourth Tuesday 

7 pm: The Front Street Readers 

book discussion group meets 

at the Ashland Library, 508-881- 

0134. On April 25, the group 

will discuss “The Nightingale,” 

by Kristin Hannah. 

Wednesdays 

10 am to 7 pm: Federated 

Church Thrift Shop, 118 Main 

St. Drop off donations while the 

shop is open. Additional parking 

behind town hall. 508-881-1355, 

www.federatedchurchofashland. 

org 

Thursdays 

1 pm: Films are shown at the 

Ashland Community-Senior 

Center. Refreshments served at 

intermission. 

Every First Thursday 

6:30 pm: Greater Ashland 

Lions meet. For information, call 

508-875-4513. 

Every Second Thursday 

7 to 9 pm: Ashland Documentary 

Film & Discussion 

Series, Ashland Library, Community 

Room. On April 13, 

the film “Chernobyl Children: 

Cuba’s Medical Response” will 

be shown. Sponsored by the 

Friends of the Library, www. 

friendsoftheapl.com, 508-881- 

0134 

Every Second and 

Fourth Thursday 

1 pm: Caregiver Support 

Group at the Ashland Community 

Center. For more information, 

contact Outreach 

Counselor Susan Wells, 508- 

881-0140, ext. 7945. 

Every Third Thursday 

5 to 6 pm: Alzheimer’s and 

Dementia Support Group 

hosted by Golden Pond Assisted 

Living and Memory Care, The 

Lodge, 50 West Main St., Hopkinton. 

Focuses on individuals 

who care for people in the mid 

to late stages of Alzheimer’s and 

related dementias. Light refreshments 

served. Register by calling 

Liz Kemp, LCSW, 508-435- 

1250 ext. 29. 

10:30 to 12 pm: TLC “The 

Lactation Club,” Backstage 

Dance Center, 300 Eliot St. A 

free gathering for new moms. 

Gina Abbascia, Board Certified 

Lactation Consultant and R.N., 

will provide tips and techniques 

for breastfeeding. Space is limited. 

To reserve your spot, call 

508-881-8226. 

Every Fourth Thursday 

6:30 to 7:30 pm: Alzheimer’s 

& Dementia Caregiving Support 

Group at The Residence at Valley 

Farm, 369 Pond St. RSVP by 

calling 508-532-3197. 

Last Thursday of 

Each Month 

6:30 to 7:30 pm: Library Teen 

Advisory Board meets to discuss 

programming for young adults 


0134. 

Fridays 

10 am: Tai Chi class at The 

Residence at Valley Farm, 369 

Pond St. Free and open to the 

public. RSVP by calling 508- 

532-3197. 

10:30 to 11:30 am: YMCA 

Play, Learn and Grow Group, 

ages 5 and under, at the Ashland 

Library. A structured parent and 

child program offered by the 

Metrowest YMCA and the Early 

Childhood Alliance of Ashland 

& Framingham. 

7 pm: Friends’ Friday Night 

Film Series at the Ashland Library 

shows predominantly 

independent or foreign films. 

Many of the films are shown 

with subtitles in English. www. 

friendsoftheapl.com, 508-881- 

0134. 

Saturdays 

3 to 5 pm: Meat Shoots at 

the Ashland American Legion 

Hall. Come for a good time and 

a chance to bring home steaks, 

chops and chicken. Raffles, too! 

Sponsored by the American Legion, 

Legion Auxiliary, Sons of 

the Legion and Greater Ashland 

Lions. 


9 am to 12 pm: Metrowest 

College & Career Fair at the 

Ashland High School. www. 

mwccf.org 

Sunday, April 2 

1 to 4:30 pm: “Day to Make 

a Difference” at the Ashland 

High School. Sponsored by 

the Ashland Democratic Town 

Committee. Learn how town 

government works and how to 

make a difference. http://bit. 

ly/2mTKicI 

Monday, April 3 

6:30 to 8 pm: Community 

Book Read with Superintendent 

Jim Adams: “The Gift of 

Failure,” by Jessica Lahey. Rescheduled 

from March. Ashland 

Library, 508-881-0134. 

Tuesday, April 4 

5:30 to 7:30 pm: Ashland 

Business Association Social at 

Dr. Diana Pardo Orthodontics, 

290 Eliot St., #2 (www. 

drpardoorthodontics.com). The 

public is invited to attend. www. 

ashlandbusinessassociation.com 

7 pm: ASHPAC Program- 

The Power of Choice with 

Judy Giovangelo, Founder and 

President of Ben Speaks, in the 

Ashland Middle School Activity 

Room. www.ashpac.org 

Wednesday, April 5 

8 to 9:30 am: MetroWest 

Commission on the Status of 

Women’s 1st Annual Legislative 

Breakfast. Registration begins 

at 7:30 am. Framingham 

State University, D. Justin Mc- 

Carthy Center - Forum room, 

100 State St., Framingham. To 

register: https://mwcswlegislativebreakfast.eventbrite.com. 

For questions, email MetroWest- 

Women@gmail.com. 

10 am to 1 pm: WALKER 

FIT--Bring your walkers to The 

Residence at Valley Farm for 

a free assessment by a physical 

therapist from Caretenders 

VNA. We will also install a free 

set of walker skis to replace those 

old tennis balls! The Residence 

at Valley Farm, 369 Pond St. 

Reservations required: 508-532- 

3197. 

3 to 7 pm: Blood Drive sponsored 

by the Greater Ashland 

Lions in conjunction with the 

Metrowest Medical Center at 

the Ashland Library, 508-881- 

0134. 


6:30 to 11:30 pm: Ashland 

Educational Foundation’s 

Awards Gala at the Sheraton 

Framingham. www.ashlandeducation.org. 

7 pm: Mystery Festival Weekend--Feature 

Film at the Ashland 

Library, 508-881-0134. 


10 am to 2 pm: Community 

Volunteer Fair Open House at 

the Ashland High School Café. 

Learn about Ashland’s committees 

and organizations, speak 

with committee members. Sponsored 

by the town of Ashland 

and We Love Ashland! 

10 am to 12 pm: Mystery Festival 

Weekend--Mystery Writers’ 

Workshop at the Ashland 

Library. Register in advance 

by calling the library, 508-881- 

0134, or emailing aplace@ashlandmass.com. 

1 to 4 pm: Mystery Festival 

Weekend--Author Panel and 

Book Signing (Ray Daniel, 

Hallie Ephron, Leslie Wheeler) 


0134. 

April 9 to 15 

National Library Week 

Sunday, April 9 

2 pm: Joel Sparks will present 

“Cemeteries, Universities 

& Shoes: Connections among 

Ashland, Holliston, Hopkinton 

and Early Historically Black 

Colleges.” Ashland Historical 

Society, 2 Myrtle St. www.ashlandhistsociety.com. 

Thursday, April 13 

5 pm: Lecture and book signing 

with Kelly McCarthy, who 

will discuss how her “Brass Ring 

Memoirs” method is an effective 

and important tool for communicating 

with and caring for 

those affected by memory challenges. 

The Residence at Valley 

Farm, 369 Pond St. RSVP by 

calling 508-532-3197. 


9 am to 3 pm: Easter Food 

Pantry Collection--The Ashland 

Lions Club will collect food 

items to help stock the Ashland 

Food Pantry from donations 

from shoppers at the Market 

Basket store on Pond St. 

April 17 

Patriot’s Day/ Boston Marathon 

April 18 to 21 

School vacation week 

Thursday, April 20 

10:30 am: Gary Hylander, 

PhD, will present part 1 of a 

4-part series called the “American 

Scriptures” at The Residence 

at Valley Farm, 369 Pond 

St. RSVP by calling 508-532- 

3197. 


3 pm: Join Culinary Service 

Director Christopher Ryan as 

he crafts one of his fine creations 

for sampling at The Residence 

at Valley Farm, 369 Pond St. 

RSVP by calling 508-532-3197. 


10 am to 2 pm: Drug Take 

Back Day Collection, sponsored 

by the Ashland Lions Club and 

the Ashland Police Department. 

Drop off any unused or expired 

prescriptions, non-prescription 

drugs and sharps, such as needles 

and lancets, for proper disposal, 

at the Ashland Police Station on 

Main Street. 

10 am to 2 pm: SHRED-IT- 

-SPRING CLEAN-UP DAY at 

The Residence at Valley Farm, 

369 Pond St. Paper limit per 

person is 3-5 cases. You can 

view your shredding on a video 

camera. RSVP by calling 508- 

532-3197. 

Email your event, with 

“CALENDAR” in the subject 

line, by noon on the 15 th 

of every month to editor@ 

ashlandtownnews.com. 

Events will be included as 

space permits.


To Wallpaper or not to Wallpaper? 

Wallpaper is a subject that 

many homeowners don’t even 

want to discuss. I think I know 

why: they’ve either tried to remove 

improperly installed paper 

that literally removed part of 

the wall with it, or they have an 

image burned into their memory 

of that velvet flocked floral 

wallpaper from their grandma’s 

house, or both. 

The truth is, wallpaper has 

never really gone out of style. 

Wallpapers have been a prominent 

finish technique for centuries 

and are installed every day in 

high-end, professionally designed 

homes. For today’s application, 

wallpaper will take an otherwise 

boring space and add texture, 

color and/or pattern; whatever is 

needed to elevate the space and 

achieve the desired effect. 

It should be noted that, solid, 

painted walls are still expected, 

appropriate and beautiful (if 

painted professionally, though 

that’s another subject!). But wallpaper 

is also a preferred choice 

for certain spaces and as an accent 

wall. When homeowners 

are willing to open their minds, 

and consider papering even a single 

focal wall, I find they are always 

happy with the result! And, 

if the wall is properly primed/ 

coated for the wallpaper, the 

paper will come off very easily 

when it’s time for a change! 

There are so many great papers 

on the market today, depending 

on what you’re looking 

for: textures and natural fiber 

looks, geometrics and bold statement 

patterns, papers made 

from sand, cork, shells and other 

natural materials, grass cloths, 

themed papers, paintable embossed 

designs, original artwork 

murals and you can even create 

your own design through design 

it yourself wallpaper companies. 

The ideas are virtually limitless! 

It’s important to select just the 

right paper to create the look 

and feel you’re going for. This 

requires the ability to perceive 

balance, color, scale, and light, so 

when in doubt, don’t hesitate to 

consult with an interior designer 

for the visual sense needed for 

this. 

Powder rooms and dining 

rooms are the most popular 

spaces for wallpapers because 

they lend themselves to a bit 

more personality, and with wainscoting 

as a popular application 

in dining rooms, wallpaper above 

the chair rail is a natural choice. 

A papered, single, focal wall in 

a bedroom or family room can 

also add dimension and style 

versus the all solid, painted walls 

look, which can get a little monotonous 

if not paired off with 

the right decorative accessories 

and layers. It’s often the subtle, 

textural patterns that add just 

enough interest to heighten the 

sophistication in the design of a 

master bedroom. On the other 

hand, a bright, geometric pattern 

can add life and whimsy to 

a teenager’s room. It all depends 

on the desired effect for each 

space. 

There are many DIY home 

design projects that yield excellent 

results, but don’t try to install 

wallpaper on your own. Wallpaper 

hanging is a trade specialty: a 

perfect installation will make the 

project, while an imperfect one 

will break it! A professional installer 

is a must for any wallpaper 

project and the extra expense is 

worth every penny. 

To Wallpaper or Not to Wallpaper? 

The answer is yes! 

Nancy Werneken 

Lead Designer at Masters Touch 

Design Build 

Nancy Werneken is a lead designer 

at Masters Touch, a local design build 

firm located at 24 Water St., Holliston. 

For more information, contact 

(508) 359-5900, e-mail info@MastersTouchWeb.com 

or visit www.MastersTouchWeb.com. 

Easter Programs and Services 

The Federated Church of 

Ashland, 118 Main St., 

will offer Easter programs 

and services. 

For more information, 

call 508-881- 

1355 or visit www. 

federatedchurchofashland.org. 

All are welcome. 

Wednesday, April 5, 7 pm: 

Lenten Program led by Pastor 

Rev. Larry Iannetti. Please join 

us to read, reflect and discuss 

the Ninety-Five Theses and their 

meaning and impact for us today. 

Sunday, April 9, 10 am: Please 

join us on Palm Sunday to celebrate 

and worship together 

remembering Jesus’ entry into 

Jerusalem and the beginning of 

Holy Week. 

Thursday, April 13, 7 pm: 

Maundy Thursday Service. 

Friday, April 14, 7 pm: A Solemn 

Service on Good Friday. 

Sunday, April 16, 10 am: 

Easter Sunday. 

Sha’arei Shalom 

Sha’arei Shalom is a member-driven, 

diverse congregation 

offering the warmth of a 

small community. We recognize 

the wide range of views in our 

congregation and provide both 

tradition and innovation, giving 

us the opportunity to learn and 

grow as a community. Programs 

are held at the Ashland Community 

Center, 162 West Union 

St. For more information, call 

508-231-4700, email info@ 

shaareishalom.org, or visit www. 

shaareishalom.org. 

Aliyah Day, Thursday, April 6: 

Yom HaAliyah (Aliyah Day) is 

an Israeli national holiday established 

to acknowledge Aliyah, 

immigration to the Jewish state, 

as a core value of the State of 

Israel, and to honor the ongoing 

contributions of those who have 

made Aliyah to Israeli society. 

Shabbat Circle, Friday, April 7, 

6:30 to 9 pm: Join us for a 

family-friendly Shabbat Circle 

Potluck Dinner. Relax with old 

friends and meet some new ones 

over Shabbat dinner. Attendees 

are asked to bring a potluck vegetarian/dairy 

dish to share. 

Yom Hashoah/Holocaust Memorial 

Day, Monday, April 24: The 

internationally recognized date 

for Holocaust Remembrance 

Day corresponds to the 27th day 

of Nisan on the Hebrew calendar. 

It marks the anniversary of 

the Warsaw ghetto uprising. 

Shabbat Services, Friday, 

April 28, 7:30 pm: Experience 

the warmth of the Sha’arei 

Shalom Community. Join us for 

a traditional Friday night service 

with Rabbi Margie leading 

the service. A community Oneg 

Shabbat will follow. 

• NATIONWIDE Service 

• We can match ANY dress color 

• Suit rentals and sales available 

• Largest in stock selection 

in Central MA 

Dressing Men for… 

Special Occasions since 1923! 

$ 

40 

Plus Free rental 

for the groom * 

*No registration fees . Valid with groom 

and 4 others renting. Not to be 

combined w/any other offers. 

Valid with coupon only. 

www.bonardis.com 

800.752.4036 

Worcester | Framingham | Milford | Sturbridge | Auburn 

OFF EA. 

CA16 

Tuxedo Rental 

Slim Fit 

available

Page 24 Ashland Local Town Pages www.localtownpages.com April 2017

Ashland April 2017

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