Sharon Square Jam to have 'Blues' feel

Sharon - For nearly two decades, Sharon residents have been gathering at the Post Office Square to celebrate the summer with their community and listen to good music. On August 4, they will meet once again for the 17th annual Square Jam where the eight-member blues band Roomful of Blues will be performing.

At this event, beginning at 6 p.m., Sharon businesses Crescent Ridge Dairy, Ward’s Berry Farm, Coriander Restaurant and French Memories Café and Bakery will provide free food and refreshments.

Why you should attend

Town Administrator Benjamin Puritz said that this is a summer event that most look forward to in Sharon.

“This is sort of the quintessential summer event,” he said. “Its an opportunity for the community to interact and socialize.”

The band, which has been nominated for five Grammy Awards, will be performing in the streets around the town center, on the corner of Billings Streets, North Main Street, and South Main Street.

While they perform, the roads will be closed off to traffic, and reserved for pedestrians. In case of inclement weather, the festival will be moved to the Sharon Community Center at 219 Massapoag Ave.

Also at the event there will also be a children’s art activity set up in the square. 

Selectmen William Heitin said he enjoys the event because it brings the whole community together.

“It’s a great family activity,” he said. “And it really shows what makes Sharon, Sharon.”

The festival will be funded by donations from the Wilber School Apartments, NSTAR, Comcast, Eastern Bank and the Rotary Club of Sharon. Puritz said that although the event is financed by private businesses, the town has put a lot of energy into making this event enjoyable for all.

“This is the event where we take off our socks and pick it up a notch,” he said. 

Last year, the Square Jam had approximately 1,200 people attend, and the Sharon Selectmen said this year should bring even more. Chairman for the Board of Selectmen Walter Joe Roach said that he has enjoyed every year he has attended.

“Square Jam gets better and better each year,” he said.

Puritz said that over the years, the town’s economy has developed and as this has happened the event has grown as well. He said the festival demonstrates how far the town has progressed, while simultaneously reminding citizens of Sharon’s past.

“It has a back in the day feel to it,” he said. “It’s a nostalgic feeling.”

Roni Thaler, the projects and office manager for the selectmen, who contributed to the planning of the festival, said that it is a hallmark summer event every year.

“I think it’s a great community event,” she said.

At the event, the 43-year-old band lead by guitarist Chris Vachon, will perform songs from their new album “Hook, Line and Sinker”. Puritz said that Sharon resident Lee Shapiro was “instrumental” in bringing the band to Sharon.

Roomful of Blues has been nationally recognized for its upbeat tempo and constant energy.

“They are a very high energy group,” Puritz said. “They’ll really create a kinda energy pulse.”

About the event

When: Thursday, Aug. 4, from 6-8:30 p.m.

Where: Sharon Center (see map for road closures)

Cost: Free

Evan Koslof

7/29/11

Originally Posted: http://www.wickedlocal.com/sharon/news/x1158627637/Sharon-Square-Jam-to-have-Blues-feel#axzz1TWiU7eE5

Benjamino states his case for Sharon Fire Chief

Sharon - Middleborough Fire Chief Lance Benjamino, 47, told selectmen on Tuesday why his experience as Fire Chief in Middleborough, MA has made him a good candidate for the town’s open position.

Benjamino, a Hanson resident, started his career as a firefighter in 1988 at the Randolph Fire Department, worked through the ranks for approximately 16 years, rising to captain. He then took a job as Halifax’s Fire Chief for six years before taking the Middleborough post in March 2009.

This meeting followed two interviews last Tuesday, in which Chief Jeffrey P. Lynch of Portmouth, R.I. and Chief James W. Wright of Athol, made their case for why they deserved the position.

Town Administrator Benjamin Puritz said that the board would most likely make a decision in the next week.

Benjamino said that his more than 20 years of experience made him an ideal candidate for the Sharon Department. He said the town would also be perfect for him.

“Sharon is a great town,” he said. “I think it would be a great fit for me.”

During the interview, Benjamino told the board about his accomplishments as chief, including the numerous grants he received. While at Halifax, he secured $475,000 in grant money. He spoke proudly of a $135,000 grant he fought for from the executive office of Public Safety, which he said helped save firefighter’s jobs.

Benjamino has also run into some controversy over the past year. A proposed grant of $2.2 million to add 16 firefighters and open a new station has created mixed reviews from the citizens of Middleborough, because it would force the town to take on approximately $1 million in new salaries for a year.

“This grant has taken a road I didn’t expect,” he said. “I never anticipated the negativity,”

He said if the situation isn’t resolved, Benjamino would be unable to accept the position if offered to him.

Benjamino also spoke of his hands-on management style that would leave firefighters accountable for themselves, while simultaneously offering help when they needed it.

“I think it’s very important to talk to the firefighters and understand what’s going on in their lives,” he said.

Chairman Walter “Joe” Roach said that the one selected should have a good mix of managerial talent and leadership.

“I want someone who will be there with the firefighters and also be strong for the firefighters,” he said. 

James Davenport, the president for the firefighters union in Sharon, said that the decision would be difficult as all three candidates were qualified for the job.

“We look forward to moving forward with a new chief and opening a new chapter at the Sharon Fire Department,” he said.

Evan Koslof

7/29/11

Originally Posted:  http://www.wickedlocal.com/sharon/news/x555030340/Benjamino-states-his-case-for-Sharon-Fire-Chief#axzz1TWiU7eE5

Sharon Commons approved by ZBA

Sharon - More than four years after Town Meeting approved the project, Sharon Commons has been approved by the Zoning Board of Appeals to apply for building permits and then to begin construction.

In a unanimous vote at its July 13 meeting, the three-person board approved the zoning requests, and brought the construction company, Intoccia closer to construction.

Town Administrator Benjamin Puritz said that the approval was a major milestone for the process, which has been developing in Sharon for years. He said the mall would help revitalize the Sharon economy, by relieving residents of some of the high tax burden.

“Its an enhancement to the economic vitality of the town,” he said. “And it would translate into quality life improvements as well.”

The mall will be anchored by BJs and Target, and will be accessible off Old Post Road.

Robert Shelmerdine, the legal counsel for the developers said that the mall, which is planned to be approximately 400,000 square feet, will be home to approximately 20 stores, including BJs and Target as the main anchor departments.

Shelmerdine said that the mall, which is going to be built in the area off Interstate 95, at exit eight, is in prime location due to its close proximity to the highway. He said that 95 would bring thousands of cars through the area every day, and would lead to increased business.

“Its such a good location,” he said. “It brings a larger geographic base to the center.”

Intoccia’s construction plans were most recently delayed in May when Sharon resident Ed McSweeny spoke to the Board of Selectmen about a potential water drainage issue, that could have adversely harmed his nearby home.

Puritz said that through a peer review process, lead by Tom Houston, the conflict was resolved. The peer review process showed that although McSweeny’s concerns were valid, there was an engineering means to protecting against any harm.

Shelmerdine said that the economic downturn has also delayed the construction process, as the developers had to step back when the money was limited.

“I think when this project was taken on, they were a lot more aggressive because the economic times were a lot better,” he said. 

Selectmen William A. Heitin said that the vote was exciting because it brought Intoccia one step closer to building the mall, which he said the board has supported for years.

“The board has supported this throughout the process,” he said. “Its tremendous on an economic basis.”

Heitin said that the mall would bring an estimated net gain of approximately $3 million in taxes, which could revitalize the town, and reduce the tax rates for Sharon citizens. Shelmerdine said that currently approximately 93 percent of the Sharon tax base is residential, and for that reason a commercial presence would help the Sharon citizens. 

ZBA Chairman Kevin McCarville said that the board approved the initiative because the developers had addressed all concerns. He also said that the town’s 2007 support for the mall played a part in their approval as well. He said the company will now begin the next phase, preparing for the building of the center.

“They are on track to begin construction now,” he said. 

Puritz said that Intoccia will now begin gathering building permits, and soon after they will begin construction. He said the development would be an exciting new outlet for Sharon citizens to shop.

“Its nice to have options in your community,” he said. 

Evan Koslof

7/29/11

Originally Posted: http://www.wickedlocal.com/sharon/news/x404072182/Sharon-Commons-approved-by-ZBA#axzz1TWiU7eE5

Selectmen name Rothbergs Citizens of Year.

Sharon - On September 11, 2001, 39-year-old Michael C. Rothberg lost his life in the terrorist attacks in New York City. His parents, struck with grief, decided to cope with their pain through giving.

Every year, Iris and Jay Rothberg give the Michael C. Rothberg September 11 Memorial Scholarship to one Sharon student. This award of $10,000 sends a senior to college. The fund, which was started in 2004, also gives $1,000 each to two other seniors.

In response to donating these scholarships and making many other gifts, the Sharon Board of Selectmen on July 19 voted unanimously to name them Citizens of the Year. 

Iris Rothberg said that she felt honored to receive the award, but said the focus should be on her son.

“The things we do are all in Michael’s name,” she said on July 20.

Her husband, Jay, agreed, saying that their actions were a way to honor their son.

“It’s very rewarding,” he said. “And it’s a special way to celebrate Michael’s life.”

The couple, who moved to Cape Cod, will be given the award at a ceremony on Aug. 17. Speaking at the event will be Recreation Director Brett MacGowan and Robert Sondheim, athletic director at Sharon High School.

At the time of his death, Michael was a successful financier, who graduated from Sharon High School in 1980 and McGill University. On the day of the terrorist attacks, he was working as the director of program trading at Cantor Fitzgerald on the 104th floor of Tower 1.

The Rothberg family created the scholarship to both honor their lost son and to help students with likeminded ideas about peace and community service. Each year, seniors enter two essays, one describing how they’ve been inspired by Michael’s legacy and the other about ideas to stop terrorism.

On May 26, the eighth-annual scholarship was given to Sharon senior Divya Bhatia. A dedicated student, Bhatia received the award for her activities, serving underprivileged children in India.

Other than the scholarship, the Rothbergs have also given money to Sharon students for numerous needs, from athletic equipment, to summer camp fees, to beach passes. They’ve also had many structures erected in Sharon to honor Michael’s life, including a clock built outside town hall.

MacGowan said that the Rothberg family has been inspirational in the way they have donated so much time and money to the children of Sharon.

“It’s amazing,” he said. “I wish there were more people like them.”

Jay Rothberg said that the scholarship was something that he felt good about. He and his wife said that they would continue to give them to students, as long as they could afford the costs.

“It feels better to give then to receive,” he said.

Selectman Richard Alan Powell said that approving the Rothbergs as Citizens of the Year was an easy choice because he said they have done a lot for the community.

“We’re just very appreciative for what they do for the town of Sharon,” he said.
Evan Koslof
7/24/11

Originally Posted: http://www.wickedlocal.com/sharon/news/x1009570682/Selectmen-name-Rothbergs-Citizens-of-Year#axzz1T9RwwvAW

Needham Friends of Woods and Waters nature walk

Nature-loving Needhamites gathered at Cutler Park on Sunday for a nature walk led by the Needham Friends of Woods and Waters. The Cutler Park nature walk was one of four planned for this summer. At these walks, experts hired by the organization lead tours to teach the guests about the environment. The group’s next event is set for Aug. 6. In the morning, the organizers will lead people on a boating excursion at Nahanton Park in Newton. People should meet at the park off Kendrick Street at 10 a.m. Then, at 1 p.m., the group will host a family picnic at Noanet Woods on Dedham Street in Dover. Participants are asked to gather at the park entrance and bring a light lunch. A walk at Hemlock Gorge is planned for Saturday, Sept. 17 at 1 p.m. Participants should gather in the large parking lot on the Newton Side of Eliot St. just over the Charles River Bridge. Questions? Contact Sam Bass Warner at 781-449-1184.

Evan Koslof

7/20/11

 

Originally Posted: http://www.wickedlocal.com/needham/photos/x1009563976/Needham-Friends-of-Woods-and-Waters-nature-walk

Grace Shepard tells Sherborn selectmen she wants to stay on personnel board

Sherborn - Starting in 2005, Sherborn resident Grace Shepard served on the Personnel Board. This June, after six years of service, the Board of Selectmen decided that she would not be reappointed.

Two weeks later on July 14, Shepard returned to the Selectmen’s meeting to plead her case. Supported by her two other board members, she spoke in front of the selectmen, asking them to not tear apart their group.

“We have done a lot of good things,” she said. “I think we work together very well.”

However, the selectmen told a very different story. Selectmen Paul DeRensis said that decision to not reappoint was based on a pattern of poor performance from Shepard. He said that last year when he was chairman, there were many instances where he had asked for support from Shepard, but didn’t get it.

“She didn’t help,” he said. “I was left high and dry last year.”

The dramatic showdown between Shepard and the board entered the public eye at the Selectmen meeting on June 23 when DeRensis spoke out against Shepard’s performance and explained why she was not being reappointed to her position.

Shepard, who publicly supported Peter Liffiton, DeRensis’ opponent in this spring election, suggested that political motives might be at play. Although she was careful as to not make many controversial comments at the meeting, she did admit that bitterness was apparent between the two boards.

“There is some animosity out there,” she said. “But you’ll have to talk to those who spread it to see why.”

DeRensis said that the basis for reappointment had nothing to do with whom they supported during elections, though. He said that as long as the person was a good worker, their job would be safe.

“I support Liffiton people up and down the line as long as they are doing their job,” he said. “Shepard wasn’t part of the team, though.”

However, at last week’s Board of Selectmen meeting, Shepard’s fellow Personnel Board members showed up to argue that she was valuable to the group. Board member Judi Miller said that the decision to not reappoint was “personally driven and illogical.”

“It would be horrible to not have Grace on the board,” she said.

She continued speaking to Board of Selectmen Chairman Thomas Twining, pleading that he not “decimate” the Personnel Board, which she said had made a positive influence.

“We do something good,” she said. “Please let us continue.”

Shepard’s other board member, Ron Arigo, said that her presence kept the group running.

“It’s critically important that you keep this board together,” he said.

Shepard’s future will be discussed at the next Board of Selectmen meeting on the week of July 25 when it will be placed on the agenda.

Until then, Shepard’s position on the board is up in the air. Twining said that no decision would be finalized until after the discussion.

“We will have all the answers after the meeting,” he said. “Until then, we’ll just have to wait.”

Evan Koslof

7/20/11

Originally Posted: http://www.wickedlocal.com/sherborn/news/x1797073683/Grace-Shepard-tells-Sherborn-selectmen-she-wants-to-stay-on-personnel-board#axzz1SgngCHd6

Sherborn Selectmen criticize each other over roles and rules

Sherborn - Things got ugly at the July 14 meeting of the Sherborn Board of Selectmen when the board members entered into a verbal altercation, lasting approximately 20 minutes. The board hadn’t even accepted the agenda yet before the argument began, which left spectators audibly sighing, visibly frustrated and at times even laughing at the politicians’ behavior.

The argument began when Selectmen George X. Pucci offered criticism towards Chairman Thomas Twining’s decision to remove certain items from the agenda.

The item in question was a planned discussion to talk about an adverse decision from the superior court going against the town in a land development case, based out of Whitney Farms. The third selectman, Paul DeRensis said that the case, which has been ongoing since 2001, has cost approximately $200,000 for the town.

Whitney Farms is built near an important Sherborn aquifer; while the developers wish to expand over it, the town has resisted the plan. While the water is not used for Sherborn drinking water, the town wants to protect it for reserve waters.

Pucci was upset that the discussion was removed because the decision was made without a conversation with the rest of the board. He said that he felt Twining was walking all over the rulebook.

“You are running the town,” he said to Twining. “You’re acting like king of the town.”

Twining said that the decision was made because in his eyes it was likely the case would be rejected if appealed, and so it would be a waste of time.

“We knew the adverse decision was coming,” he said to Pucci.

Although the argument was primarily between Twining and Pucci, DeRensis got dragged in as well, when Pucci made allegations that the two made the decision together.

Pucci said during the meeting that Twining took the item off the agenda because DeRensis asked him to do so.

“You two are unilaterally allowing for the 30-day appeal to run,” Pucci said, referring to the other selectman.

DeRensis, who is no longer chairman, said that he was distressed by Pucci’s allegations, because only the chairman has the power to add or remove items from the agenda, and so he had nothing to do with the change.

He said that Pucci’s behavior at the meeting was hard to deal with.

“When he gets angry, you can’t talk to him,” he said.

After nearly 20 minutes, DeRensis called for an emergency meeting to discuss the issue. He said that despite their differences in opinion, the board should find a solution, and move on.

“I don’t agree with you George,” he said. “But I’m trying to accommodate you.”

The meeting was planned for 11 a.m. on July 20 when the selectmen will gather to discuss whether to appeal the court’s decision.

When the board finally agreed to move into public comment, a man stood up in the back of the room. His name was Andy Errico, and he has lived in Sherborn his whole life.

“It’s just embarrassing as a person who grew up here to see the town as it’s turned into,” he said.

In front of the chairman and nearly 20 spectators, he spoke of his disappointment in the board. After receiving a round of applause, he offered one last comment.

“For the good of the town and the community, we need to work together,” he said.

Evan Koslof

7/20/11

Originally Posted: http://www.wickedlocal.com/sherborn/features/x1797073647/Sherborn-Selectmen-criticize-each-other-over-roles-and-rules#axzz1SgngCHd6

Farm Pond changes closing hours to 8:30

Sherborn - What was decided? At the July 14 meeting, the Sherborn Board of Selectmen decided to change the closing time for Farm Pond  to 8:30 p.m. Both gates will be closed at this time. In the past, the lifeguards would leave at 8 p.m., but due to the gate being left open, people would continue swimming after that time. This will no longer be possible.

When will this change take place? The change in policy takes place on July 23. After this date, the gates will be closed by 8:30 p.m. when the lifeguards leave.

Why was the change made? The change was made after the board considered the late-night swimming to be a safety issue. At night, swimmers are not supervised since the lifeguards leave at closing time. For this reason, they decided it would not be safe to allow access. The change is also in response to people finding beer bottles and cans, as well as graffiti by the pond. Jeanne Guthire, who proposed the change, said that the new policy was to protect people.

“We don’t want people swimming down there without lifeguards,” she said. “It’s for safety reasons."

Evan Koslof

7/20/11

Originally Posted: http://www.wickedlocal.com/sherborn/features/x920799591/Farm-Pond-changes-closing-hours-to-8-30#axzz1SgngCHd6