Friends of the Athol Council on Aging meeting

The Friends of the Athol Council on Aging will hold its quarterly meeting on Thursday, July 13, at 1 p.m. in the Athol Senior Center.  All members and guests are urged to attend.  The Friends will be approving the proposed amendments to the bylaws.

“Kindness Or Authenticity” talking circle with Court Dorsey and Chris Queen

WENDELL — On Thursday, June 29, at 7 p.m., Court Dorsey and Chris Queen will host a talking circle at the Wendell Meetinghouse in the final event of the Thursday Evenings at the Wendell Meetinghouse series at the Wendell Meetinghouse, 1 Morse Village Road, on the Wendell Common.

With friends and loved ones, in social circles, online and on Listservs, how do we balance saying what is polite with telling it like it is? When we disagree, do we stick to our guns, roll over, or listen more closely to what the other is saying? Is compromise always required, or should we remain faithful to our values and beliefs? Is honesty always the best policy if someone may be offended or hurt? Is a little white lie sometimes needed to save the situation?

Sitting together in a talking circle, we will open a conversation to share stories and dilemmas. Knowing there are no right answers when it comes to human communication, bring what has worked and what hasn’t. In a world filled with advice columns and internet gurus, doesn’t it come down to how people find their way to kindness and authenticity?

Dorsey and Queen are president and vice president of the Friends of the Wendell Meetinghouse. Dorsey is a writer, retired university lecturer and dean. Queen is an actor, musician, poet and circle keeper. They will bring stories and reflections from years on stage, in the classroom, guiding mediations and leading groups—and as loving members of families that offer their own challenges.

Admission to these events is free, with donations strongly encouraged. Proceeds will benefit the Friends of the Wendell Meetinghouse and support programming and the continued renovation of this historic structure. Visit www.wendellmeetinghouse.org/events for more details.

Other upcoming Meetinghouse events include a July 11 Sound Journey with Nirmal Chandraratna. Join this musical experience drawing elements of ritual and sound healing together to create a dynamic, transformative environment. For more information, contact court@crocker.com or call 413-325-7587.

Zachary French named to Dean’s List at Western New England University

SPRINGFIELD — Phillipston resident Zachary French has been named to Western New England University’s Dean’s List for the Spring 2023 semester.

French, majoring in mechanical engineering, is one of over 570 students who achieved this mark of academic excellence. Students are named to the Dean’s List for achieving a semester grade point average of 3.30 or higher.

Narragansett School Committee seeks candidates for open seat

BALDWINVILLE — The Narragansett Regional School Committee is looking for interested candidates to fill one open seat on the NRSD School Committee. The candidate must be from Phillipston, and would be appointed to serve until the Phillipston Town Election in May 2024.

A letter of interest, which should include your reasons for seeking the appointment and the expertise, skills, and perspectives you will bring to the Committee, should be submitted no later than Aug. 1, 2023, and sent to:

NRSD School Committee

℅ Dr. Christopher Casavant, Superintendent

462 Baldwinville Road

Baldwinville, MA 01436

Letters of interest can also be emailed to svarney@nrsd.org

Interviews for interested candidates are tentatively scheduled to take place during the week of Aug. 14 at the NRSD School Committee meeting (date TBD), at which time it is anticipated an appointment will be made.

Please feel free to direct any questions about School Committee service to any member of the Committee or make an appointment to meet with Superintendent Casavant.

Committee contact information can be found at https://tinyurl.com/2uka6u2n.

Please contact Susan Varney at 978-939-5661 for any further information.

Athol student graduates from TEC Connections Academy

Walpole — Lily Bokelman of Athol was among more than 300 seniors graduating in June from TEC Connections Academy Commonwealth Virtual School.

“At TEC Connections Academy, we pride ourselves on providing a world-class education in the online environment, while also preparing our students to thrive in a changing world. I am honored to congratulate our graduates and their families, many of whom have been with us for their full, four-year high school experience,” said TECCA superintendent Patrick Lattuca.

Volunteer opportunities available to support children experiencing homelessness

PETERSHAM — Horizons for Homeless Children is poised to serve children in the Petersham community by providing dedicated playtime with trained volunteers. Volunteers are needed to empower children through play and applications are now open.

Join a team of volunteers dedicated to making connections with children living in shelter. Horizons’ Playspace program has been growing its volunteer corps and opening new spaces, including a brand new Playspace in Petersham.

“We are so pleased to continue to grow what has been a program of great value to families and volunteers for decades,” said Lynne Gaines, Director of the Playspace Program.

“Our volunteers are the heart and soul of Horizons’ Playspace Program,” said Deborah Stolbach, Chief Program Officer. “Their commitment allows us to provide play experiences for over 1,000 children in Massachusetts shelters every month. Homelessness is stressful for all members of the family, especially young children. Playspace offers a safe and nurturing environment where children can do the things that all kids need...express themselves, build relationships with adults and other children, and have fun.”

Volunteer shifts are two hours once a week and all volunteers receive training, ongoing support, and the satisfaction of making a difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families. Volunteers who are 16 or 17 years old may participate with parent or guardian supervision. Potential volunteers can learn more and apply on Horizons’ website, here.

“I have a friend who has been in and out of the shelter system with two children. I saw how debilitatingly hard it can be as a mom to live in a shelter and to experience homelessness,” said Robin Hauck, a Playspace volunteer. “That inspired me to get involved and I am so glad I did. Horizons has enabled me to give back to families like my friend’s and that experience has been one of the best things in my life.”

View photos of Horizons’ Playspaces, here. Note: masks are no longer required in the Playspaces. About Horizons for Homeless Children Horizons for Homeless Children is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of young children and their families who are experiencing homelessness. Horizons provides high–quality early education, comprehensive family support services and opportunities for play to children living in shelter. For more information about Horizons for Homeless Children, please visit www.horizonschildren.org.

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