508Local, 25 Elm Street, Southbridge, MA (2026)

06/24/2026

The Chain

Spencer Summer Concert Series kicks off July 5

SPENCER — The Spencer Parks & Recreation Commission’s 2026 Summer Concert Series kicks off from 2 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, July 5 at Powder Mill Park, corner Smithville and Meadow Roads, Spencer with The Chain.

Unique. Special. Different. Sparkling. These are some of the words that can be used to describe The Chain, a musical group that has developed a sound that is fresh and new, yet very easy to love. Audiences respond instantly to them. Fellow musicians admire their taste and skill. Led by the dynamic presence and powerful voice of Alison McTavish, The Chain has developed a set of music that is an eclectic mixture of cover songs that make the listener smile and say, “I remember that one. I love it!” Rich three-part harmonies, a dynamic rhythm section, great musicianship and of course, Alison, combine to make The Chain one of the most exciting new bands in Central New England.

Following The Chain, next up in this series will be The Deloreans on July 12 in what will be one of their final appearances.

The concert series is proudly sponsored by Cornerstone Bank. Cornerstone Bank was formed in 2017, born of a long history of supporting the community, and providing a strong foundation to help people and businesses thrive. Serving Worcester County, Massachusetts, Cornerstone Bank’s local presence and community-based banking model enables a unique ability to deliver outstanding service, with a personal touch. Cornerstone, which is a subsidiary of PeoplesBankCorp, MHC, operating independently under its own name and brand, provides the highest level of service and expertise for individuals, businesses, and community organizations with branch locations throughout Central Massachusetts. Cornerstone works to connect customers with opportunities through a broad range of deposit and loan products and services. Built on Trust is not just a tagline, but also one of our guiding corporate values. Whether a business or personal partnership, Cornerstone stands on the foundation that relationships are built on trust. To learn about Cornerstone Bank’s personal and business banking offerings, please visit cornerstonebank.com or call 800-939-9103.

06/23/2026

Courtesy
Pictured: Ron Tillen (at left) with members of the Thompson Fire Engine Company.

Sirens sound to honor five decades of service

DAYVILLE — On an idyllic May afternoon, sirens echoed across the grounds of Country Living at Westview Commons. This was neither an emergency nor an exercise, but rather a herald of well-earned recognition for a dedicated firefighter living among the community's residents. As a procession of rescue apparatus entered the driveway of Westview Commons, a gallery of neighbors, family members, friends, and fellow firefighters gathered beneath the porte-cochère at the community's main entrance. The plan had been established well in advance—unbeknownst to resident Ron Tillen. As far as he knew, he was simply enjoying a visit from his son.

With Thompson Fire Engine Company’s three trucks and assembled ranks waiting outside, Tillen’s patient curiosity found reward as he walked into the surprise salute. Led out by his wife Gwyneth, Ron's shock was quickly surpassed by his joy. Smiles surrounded him as applause echoed beneath the entryway. Reflecting both his sense of humor and his sense of duty, Ron playfully stepped into formation alongside the ten members of Thompson Fire Engine Company gathered before him.

This grand demonstration celebrated Ron's selection as the recipient of the 2026 Thompson Unpaid Professional of the Year Award—a distinction presented through the Thompson VFW Memorial Post 10088 (Quinebaug). Ron is recognized as this year’s recipient for his enduring service to Thompson Fire Engine Company.

Determined to properly recognize one of their longest-serving and most devoted members, firefighters brought the presentation directly to Ron at his Westview Commons residence. Multiple ranks and responsibilities were represented among the Thompson Fire Engine Company members in attendance. Each knew Ron through a different chapter of service, friendship, mentorship, or shared experience. As Ron stepped up to greet Thompson Fire Engine Company Chief Matt Grauer and Assistant Chief Randy Fifield, he remained characteristically humble, taking time to congratulate each officer on their own advancement within the department and warmly recalling when they first joined.

The sounds of sirens have long carried special meanings for Ron. Growing up in England during World War II, sirens warned families of approaching bombing raids and signaled the need to seek shelter. Following his family's move to the United States, Ron discovered that American sirens often meant something different: firefighters, emergency responders, and volunteers rushing toward danger to help others. To Ron, the sound of a siren always signals a call to action.

When Ron and Gwyneth moved to Thompson in 1971, he inquired about joining the local volunteer fire department with enthusiasm. Encouraged by neighbors, Ron officially joined Thompson Fire Engine Company in January 1972 and was welcomed into the organization. More than five decades later, he remains among the department's most dedicated members and currently serves as its eldest member still on the books.

Like many volunteer firefighters across America, Ron's years with the department involved far more than fighting structure fires. Members respond to motor vehicle accidents, flooded basements, medical emergencies, and countless calls for assistance throughout the community. Later in his service, Ron became a member of the department's Fire Police, helping safely direct traffic and maintain order around emergency scenes until law enforcement personnel assume command.

Yet the firefighters gathered at Westview Commons came not only to celebrate Ron's years of service, but also his efforts to preserve the history of the organization itself. Organized in 1832 and established in 1837, Thompson Fire Engine Company is the 10th oldest fire company in Connecticut and the oldest in Windham County. Through years of careful research, Ron examined handwritten meeting minutes and historical records dating back nearly two centuries. His efforts culminated in the publication of "A History of The Thompson Fire Engine Company: The First 170 Years." This beautifully composed volume reflects Ron's determination to ensure that every firefighter found within the historical record is remembered through time. Copies of the work are shared with historical organizations and repositories throughout Connecticut; preserving the story of the company for future generations.

The gathered crowd listened attentively as Chief Grauer reflected on Ron's contributions. “Ron has been president of the company, company historian, and devoted member going on 55 years. The book he created for our Fire Company is a great piece of history—not just for the Fire Company, but for the Town of Thompson and the whole state of Connecticut. Through all of Ron’s years of service to Thompson Fire Engine Company he has been instrumental in our community engagement; always insisting on helping the Company get better. It is with great privilege that I present Ron with the 2026 Thompson Unpaid Professional Award.”

Assistant Chief Randy Fifield explained why the department chose to bring the presentation directly to Westview Commons. “We really wanted this recognition to symbolize the continued connection we have with Ron and all of our members. This was one of the more important calls of the year for us, and definitely one of the easiest!”

The surprise succeeded in overcoming Ron's nearly-impenetrable humility. Following the presentation, gathered guests branched into smaller conversations as friends and colleagues reconnected under a glowing sunset. Ron made a point of shaking the hand of every firefighter in attendance, recalling shared experiences and memories with each greeting.

The award recognized a lifetime of service, but the surprise visit revealed something even more enduring: the friendships forged through that service. As the apparatus of Thompson Fire Engine Company departed Westview Commons, they left behind more than an award presentation. They imparted a powerful reminder that true service is never forgotten.

06/22/2026

Oxford High School Class of 2026 celebrates graduation
OXFORD — Family members, friends, faculty, staff, and community members gathered on the Oxford High School football field Friday evening to celebrate the graduation of the Oxford High School Class of 2026. With warm temperatures, a gentle breeze, and the sun slowly setting in the background, the evening provided the perfect setting to honor the accomplishments of the graduating class.
The ceremony began promptly at 6 p.m. as graduates made their way onto the field to the traditional processional, “Pomp and Circumstance,” performed by the Oxford High School Band under the direction of Chris Rubenacker. The colors were proudly presented by the NJROTC, followed by a moving rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” performed by the Oxford High School Chorus, directed by Bradley Sampson.
Class President and Salutatorian Gwen Gustafson welcomed attendees with a thoughtful and heartfelt address. Reflecting on her years in Oxford Public Schools, Gustafson shared lessons she learned along the way and encouraged her classmates to slow down, live in the present, and cherish the small moments that often become life's most meaningful memories.
Senior speaker Ethan White followed with a powerful message about compassion and community. White challenged his fellow graduates to support their neighbors rather than judge them and urged everyone to remain mindful of the people around them as they move forward into the next chapter of their lives.
The final student address was delivered by Valedictorian Cassidy Burke. Speaking about gratitude and humility, Burke reflected on the impact the Class of 2026 has had on Oxford High School and the greater community. She reminded her classmates that through their actions, leadership, and relationships, they have left both their school and community better than they found them.
Oxford High School Principal Rebecca Czernicki then addressed the graduating class. Noting that she began her journey at Oxford High School alongside the students when they entered as freshmen, she reflected on the remarkable growth she had witnessed over the past four years. Czernicki praised the graduates for the positive impact they have made on the school community and expressed her gratitude and pride in knowing that each graduate was prepared for future success.
Class Advisor Emily Reimer continued the ceremony by reading the beloved "Tradition of the Rose," a meaningful Oxford High School graduation tradition that celebrates the support and sacrifices of loved ones throughout a student's educational journey.
Superintendent of Schools Michael Lucas offered his congratulations and best wishes to the graduates before formally certifying the Class of 2026.
The highlight of the evening followed as members of the School Committee, Principal Czernicki, and Superintendent Lucas congratulated each graduate individually. As names were announced by Dean of Students PJ Boggio, graduates proudly crossed the stage to receive their diplomas and celebrate the culmination of years of hard work and dedication.
Adding a special personal touch to the ceremony, two graduates who were children of School Committee members had the unique opportunity to receive their diplomas directly from their parents. In addition, two Oxford Public Schools staff members were invited to the stage to present diplomas to their graduating children, creating unforgettable moments for families and attendees alike.
As the final diploma was awarded and the Class of 2026 was officially declared graduates, excitement filled the air. The ceremony concluded with the traditional tossing of graduation caps, followed by embraces, photographs, and celebrations shared among family members, friends, teachers, and classmates.
The Oxford High School Class of 2026 leaves behind a legacy of leadership, compassion, perseverance, and community spirit. As they embark on new journeys, they carry with them the lessons, memories, and relationships forged during their time in Oxford Public Schools.
Congratulations to the Oxford High School Class of 2026.

06/22/2026

Stand Down Day marks 10 years

BY JASON BLEAU
VILLAGER CORRESPONDENT

DANIELSON — Connecticut State Community College Quinebaug Valley hosted the tenth annual Veterans Stand Down event, a yearly gathering of vendors and resource providers that serve as a one-stop-shop for their various needs.
The event started a decade ago to help provide veterans in the Quiet Corner a way to access all the various services all at once including healthcare, veterans affairs officials, benefit programs and more.
Veterans Service Coordinator of CT State Community College Quinebaug Valley Joel Niemann, himself a combat veteran, has helped lead the Veterans Stand Down Day since its inception and spoke about the importance of providing veterans young and old an opportunity to get all of their services in one area through a single day.
“We’re in the Quiet Corner. Having all these vendors in one spot allows our veterans to get it all done here. They don’t have to spread their time to see this doctor at this time and be at this VA at this time. You get everything done on the veterans side of things right here and we also have resources for veteran families who have questions about educational or death benefits. All those folks are here to answer all those questions,” said Niemann.
The Veterans Stand Down Day was inspired from one simple concept: helping veterans adapt to civilian life after their service. Niemann said he knows first-hand the struggles many combat veterans face when they need to find a new calling in the world, and providing opportunities like the Stand Down Day reminds them they are valued and that there are plenty of people on hand to help.
“For a lot of veterans, they go into that honeymoon phase the first month back as a civilian and when that goes away that’s when the depression kicks in, drinking might start, suicidal thoughts can come around because you don’t really have a sense of purpose anymore. Myself and all the veterans involved in getting this organized, it gives us a sense of purpose to help other veterans conquer those feelings and not have to feel that way when they come back to the states,” Niemann said.
Veterans Stand Down continues to be an important annual event in the Quiet Corner, and for many veterans an essential one. While hundreds of veterans benefit from the day each year, some don't have the ability or time to attend.
With that in mind, Niemann noted that their mission doesn't stop with one single day. Providing access to services and resources is a year-round endeavor, with Veterans Stand Down Day serving as one of the most important single days in that mission.
Veterans who are seeking access to resources or guidance on where to start can contact Joel Niemann directly at [email protected].

06/21/2026

Strawberry Festival brings community together for sweet celebration at Northbridge Senior Center

NORTHBRIDGE — The Strawberry Festival this week at the Northbridge Senior Center was a wonderful success, offering an afternoon filled with engaging conversation, fresh local flavors, and a strong sense of community!
Guest speaker Ken Foppema of Foppema’s Farm captivated attendees with his presentation that covered their strawberry growing process from "seedling to sweetness!" He shared the history of his family’s farm, established in 1983, and gave a vivid look into the care and dedication behind their strawberries as well as their seasonal harvests.
The crowd was enthusiastic and engaged, enjoying both the presentation and the opportunity to connect over a shared appreciation for both strawberries and local agriculture. The festival took place in the Center's beautifully decorated dining room, where festive, strawberry-themed décor added a bright and cheerful touch to the celebration. Guests delighted in fresh, flavorful refreshments that highlighted the best of the Foppema strawberry season, which included delicious homemade strawberry shortcake (recipe and efforts courtesy of Maggie Creaser and several other treasured volunteers of the senior center)! As a special takeaway, free raffle baskets were awarded to two lucky winners, and each attendee received a strawberry themed favor—a scrumptious homemade cookie from Oat and Olive Bakery!
The entire event created a warm, welcoming atmosphere that celebrated not only strawberry season, but also the importance of supporting a local farm and coming together as a community.
For more information about the senior center's special events, please call (508) 234-2002. For more information on Oat and Olive, please email [email protected], and for more information on Foppema's farm, please call (508) 234-6711 or visit their farmstand at 1605 Hill St. in Northbridge.

06/21/2026

Dudley Conservation Land Trust announces major milestones at open board meeting

DUDLEY — Dudley Conservation Land Trust (DCLT) celebrated its new headquarters at the historic Perron House during its open board meeting today, toasting the property and the Perron family's generosity in making the conservation possible.
The barn roof has already been replaced thanks to funding from the Janet Malser Humanities Trust, and sill replacement is scheduled for fall with support from both the Janet Malser Humanities Trust and Preservation Massachusetts on behalf of the 1772 Foundation. DCLT also announced the successful acquisition of the 21-acre Kulisa-Tierney Preserve and significant progress on its $1 million capital campaign. The outdoor event attracted around 35 attendees, along with two dogs, on a beautiful sunny day. Among the honored guests were Lou Perron and his sisters, Susan Lyman and Julie Perron, as well as Stacia Caplanson from Preservation Massachusetts.
The Perron House, formerly the Leonidas Ballard house from the 1830s, will become DCLT's new headquarters, supporting board meetings, storage, and possibly a caretaker residence. Key stewardship efforts include invasive plant removal and connecting trails between nearby wildlife sanctuaries.
The newly acquired Kulisa-Tierney Preserve adds 21 acres of conserved land, featuring a tri-town marker, cemetery, and trails. DCLT thanked attendee Martha Tierney, daughter of conservationists Chet and Ann Kulisa, for continuing their legacy alongside her siblings. A future event at the Preserve is planned, and new signage will be installed consistent with the newly erected signs at Antos Farm and the Perron House.
DCLT’s $1 million capital campaign to support its headquarters and replenish the endowment has raised $435,000, aided by local businesses and families. An updated website will launch soon, enhancing community engagement and offering a free hat or T-shirt to new monthly donors contributing $15 or more through Sept. 1.
"These milestones reflect the strength of community support and a shared commitment to conserving land in Dudley and Oxford," said Liza Moran, DCLT President. "We are grateful to the donors, volunteers, partners, and neighbors who helped make today's announcements possible."

06/20/2026

Former Yankee editor shares stories of New England

BY JASON BLEAU
CORRESPONDENT

SPENCER — Mel Allen made a name for himself as the longtime editor of Yankee Magazine, a New England staple that has chronicled both the most notable and hidden stories of New England life.
Through his time with the magazine, Allen has had the privilege of meeting and sharing the stories of many New Englanders whose lives and experiences define not only the American spirit, but also what it means to be from the northeast corner of the United States.
Allen paid a visit to the Richard Sugden Library in Spencer as part of a library tour to promote his book “Here in New England,” where he chronicles many of the stories he wrote during his career with Yankee Magazine – stories he believes help connect us all in a time of great division.
“When I write about people I spend hours, often days with them. When they see me listening intently, they will tell me stories of their lives they may not have told to anyone else because few people have somebody totally listen to their story, but that’s what I do,” Allen said. “I listen, and as they tell me their story, as they open their lives, the words they speak become intimate albums that I get to keep.”
Allen began by discussing how working with the late Edie Clark, a contributor to Yankee Magazine, which led to him meeting Steve Lewers of publishing company Earth, Sky + Water. After Clark’s passing, he and Lewers worked together on a memorial where Lewers heard Allen’s stories and offered to publish a collection of his writings, feeling that the world needed to read Allen’s work.
Those stories were the basis of Allen’s presentation where he provided brief insight into many of the individuals and local stories he had the privilege of sharing with the world.
“Because of Yankee, I had the gift of knowing people and places in a way that few of us can,” Allen said. “I heard stories that break your heart, and stories that restore faith in people, and stories that inspire me every time I think of the people I came to know. All of these matter, and sometimes there are stories that do all of this at one time.”
Allen, in many ways, is a storyteller who took the responsibility of sharing other people’s experiences to heart. He talked about how he felt anxiety before every meeting and interview, unsure if he could find the words to do these stories justice. However, by the end of his career, he had helped share the trials and successes of so many often-overlooked members of the larger New England community, shedding a light on the diversity and perseverance of our small section of the nation.
Among his many tales chronicled in “Here in New England” are a Maine fishermen Joe Woods who took his love of photography and applied it to his profession as a fisherman capturing photos that give a unique insight into the trade; Erin Gotteald who’s Essay “The Name We Carry” details a family history of public servants, members of the military; interviews with Grace Corrigan, the mother of the late astronauts and teacher Christa McAuliffe; talks with famed author Stephen King from early in his career; the final days of pioneer homesteader Scott Nearing; the weather observers on the summit of Mt, Washington; and Sandra Mansi who caught a famous photo of the legendary Lake Champlain sea creature Champ just to name a few.
Through his presentation, Allen held on to one truth: that libraries, a continued source of hard copy literature and community gathering, are more important than ever. They provide a space where anyone can learn the stories of generations past and come together to share their own experiences at a time where community is more valuable than ever before.
“I’ve thought a lot about libraries since I began giving so many talks around the region and so many libraries. So many people have forgotten that happy feeling of holding a printed page in our hand. My life has been about print on a page, so I’m thankful that libraries remain that keeper of that flame," said Allen, later adding to this sentiment. “The library is ours. It belongs to us. In a country now where we feel hopelessly divided between the other, whoever the other may be, the library knows no other. Only us, and all of us belong and that's one of the most beautiful things about a library.”
For Allen, the stories he experiences as a writer represent a larger reality many people forget. These stories are a connecting thread for everyone no matter how big or small. Stories remind us that challenges, successes, personal evolution, and personal tragedy are all part of everyone’s lives.
After a decades-long legacy of helping Yankee Magazine share these stories, Allen continues to work to bring awareness to the hidden tales, even in retirement, reminding us of all of the bonds we share by just being here in New England.

06/20/2026

Jason Bleau
The Wall of Angels at a past Particle Accelerator event.

Particle Accelerator celebrates 20th anniversary

BY JASON BLEAU
VILLAGER CORRESPONDENT
PUTNAM — Particle Accelerator, a day of music and hope, has now been a staple of the Quiet Corner for multiple decades celebrating its 20th iteration on June 13 at Rotary Park in Putnam.
The annual event brings together a lineup of musical acts and vendors donating their time to celebrate the life of The Legendary Jack Young, Jr., who sadly took his own life on his 27th birthday. Particle Accelerator started as a celebration of life where musicians came together to honor one of their own, but those involved quickly saw the potential for the event to serve a larger purpose. For the last 20 years, the program has helped raise money for United Services in Dayville and raise awareness of depression, mental health, and su***de prevention, Eric Gould, who has been a part of Particle Accelerator since the beginning, said everyone saw the concert as a way to honor Young’s memory with the first show taking place at the Thompson Rod & Gun. Over the years, however, it has grown into something much larger, serving as a way for people to heal and to help everyone understand the complexities of mental health while promoting music as an outlet to deal with those struggles.
“We want to spread awareness of people needing access to mental health care and things like that but also being aware of yourself and your need to enjoy life. Music and art can be a vehicle for that. Most times mental health isn’t a choice. Some folks have substance abuse issues and some folks you wake up one day and you have a mental illness,” said Gould. “For some of us, it’s the awareness that’s a thing and that some people need that help and it isn’t always affordable or accessible or isn’t always sought out. Folks like you and me need to educate ourselves as to when someone needs that help.”
The day includes the Wall of Angels, an annual memorial remembering those who lost their struggle with su***de. Vendors on hand provide access to resources so that those in attendance know they have someone to go to, or resources to bring to those they meet who need help.
Of course, the day is also filled with positivity and joy in the form of music, and each year every artist involved donates their time, playing free of charge. Gould said the support from the musicians is always overwhelming to the point where they have waiting lists of artists waiting to get the call to take the stage.
“If you’ve ever asked a group of people to do a thing they do for money for free, you’ll know that’s usually a no and even a tough ask. For Particle it’s not. For whatever reason, the artists are so enthused by what we’re doing we’ve never had that issue. They are banging at the door and waiting in line to be a part of this. It’s become something folks really want to be a part of,” said Gould.
With 20 years now in the books, Gould acknowledges it's getting harder for him to keep up with more modern musical tastes and someday people like him will move on and pass the event on to new coordinators. As he looks to the future of Particle Accelerator, he has some great volunteers working to keep it going specifically mentioning Danny Fleet who is now doing most of the booking, Chris Tsanjoures who has handled sound coordination, and credited Taylor Shea for her help with this year’s event.

06/19/2026

Courtesy
Congratulations to Trinity Catholic Academy Class of 2026

Trinity Catholic Academy is proud to celebrate our graduating 8th graders as they complete this important chapter and prepare for the exciting opportunities ahead. We wish them continued success, happiness, and God's blessings as they begin their high school journey. Front row: Ayden Rodriguez & Caius Ovalles. Middle row: Abigail Frazier, Heer Swadia, Carilynne Norris, Sophia Gauthier, & Celia Ladd. Back row: Alexio Yacavace, Zyon Stockley, & Nicolas Gauvin.

06/18/2026

Courtesy
The Ruth Wells Center for the Arts will host the annual Summerfest on Saturday, June 20 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the front lawn of 111 Main St. in Southbridge. Featuring more than 25 crafters, Summerfest is a highlight of the Center. Live music will be provided by the Euphoralites, along with a food truck. Admission is free and all are welcome. The galleries will be open featuring the works of June artists David Baggerly, Barbara O'Brien and James R. Wilton. Don't miss this fun event. For more information, go to the Web site, ruthwellscenter.com. The Center has been offering art and cultural programs for almost 50 years!

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