“𝑺𝒉𝒆 𝒖𝒔𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝒎𝒂𝒅 𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒂𝒃𝒔𝒐𝒍𝒖𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒚 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈. 𝑰 𝒓𝒆𝒎𝒆𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆 𝑰 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒄𝒌𝒆𝒅 𝒂 𝑭𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔 𝒈𝒍𝒂𝒔𝒔 𝒐𝒇𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒂𝒊𝒅, ‘𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒕’𝒔 𝒘𝒉𝒚 𝒘𝒆 𝒄𝒂𝒏’𝒕 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒏𝒊𝒄𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔.’” - 𝑷𝒂𝒖𝒍𝒂 𝑷𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒏𝒆 (𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒅𝒚 𝒔𝒌𝒆𝒕𝒄𝒉)
Well, I guess I will just rip the band-aid off…
Earlier this week, one or more individuals defaced the Nyanza Memorial off of Memorial Drive and the area surrounding it. Vandalism of any kind is bad, but what makes this so disappointing is that this is a tribute to those who lost their lives to Nyanza and the work that the community has done to bring attention to and clean up the residual contamination. It is a symbol of a troubling past but more importantly a tribute to our resilience as a town. Damage to this memorial should hit close to home for all of us. The truly ironic thing is that a number of volunteers, with assistance from DPW, were working on refreshing the memorial to be unveiled by the end of this month or October. That has now been set back.
Given the frequency of vandalism acts over the last several months, we will be putting the necessary resources into finding the culprits and ensuring to the best of our ability that the appropriate consequences are meted out. We will also be meeting next week to discuss ways we can better prevent this in the future. If you happen to know anything about this incident (or any other vandalism in town), please contact the Ashland Police Department.
In reference to the above quote, many of us have looked at the damage to the community and said, “That’s why we can’t have nice things”. I refuse to believe that we should lower our standards to reflect the actions of a few, and I hope you agree with me.
I have included one picture here for reference, but the damage was a lot more extensive.
Michael Herbert
Town Manager
September 11th Remembrance
Monday is September 11, and it’s an opportunity for us as a community to remember the events of September 11, 2001. Let’s make sure each of us pause during the day to pay tribute to the brave souls who lost their lives, the heroes who risked everything to save others, and the strength that emerged from the ashes of tragedy.
As we look back on the world-changing events that happened 22 years ago, let us also look forward with hope and determination. For those of us who were alive back then, we all remember that binding feeling of patriotism and resolve that united the whole country. For a few weeks, political and social divisions were cast aside and we focused on making the United States the best country it could be. A far cry from where we are today.
Together, we stand strong.
The New Mindess School is Open
Just a reminder that there will be an open house to tour the new Mindess School tomorrow starting at 12:30pm. I am greatly disappointed that I have a family commitment that will keep me from attending, but that doesn’t dampen my pride and appreciation of this project.
While this is a school building, it is a structure that the entire community can be proud of. Years of planning, communty input and hard work culminated in the opening of a state-of-the-art facility for our students, teachers, and administrators on Tuesday. Like any project it wasn’t easy, but the team that was assembled made it look that way. To that end, I want to thank my talented and hardworking colleagues on the Mindess School Building Committee for providing guidance and overall oversight for the project. Leading the Committee has been the indefatigable Paul Kendall. Sometimes I wondered if Paul really had a full-time job due to the amount of time and work he put into this building. I met Paul at the school a couple of Saturdays ago to get an update on the building, and even then he was taking the time to look at each classroom to make sure all the outlets and plugs were in correctly and crossing them off his “punch list”. We have been lucky to have his leadership on the project.
Superintendent Jim Adams has also been a major part of this project, as has the Ashland School Committee. Their leadership has been instrumental in making this happen. Kudos also to the Ashland Select Board for supporting this project without hesitation. There are also so many others to thank like our Project and Construction team from Vertex and Shawmut, as well as the Massachusetts School Building Authority, Senate President Spilka, Representative Jack Lewis, and all the staff and boards/committees involved.
Most importantly, I want to thank the residents of Ashland for voting to fund this incredible new school. One of my happiest/proudest moments as Town Manager was when I got the results of the vote for this project. We had two questions on the ballot: to fund the Public Safety Building and the School, and both passed with equal and overwhelming support.
Comprehensive & Strategic Plan
There are so many reasons to get involved in the Town’s Comprehensive Plan Process. Here are five:
Preservation of Town Character: Ashland’s rich history needs resident involvement to uphold its heritage while modernizing.
Infrastructure Input: Residents offer firsthand knowledge on traffic, revitalization, and desired services.
Environmental Conservation: With treasures like Sudbury River, resident participation ensures their protection.
Education and Community Services: Local involvement shapes schools and services to meet evolving needs.
Local Economic Boost: Supporting local businesses and attractions sustains Ashland’s vibrant economy.
Keep your eyes out for ways to provide input and get involved!
Oil, Mercury, & Oil-based Paint Collection Rescheduled Due to Holiday - New Date
September 9th 9am-12pm
The monthly residential drop-off collection of various items will take place tomorrow. Starting from October, we will resume the regular schedule on the first Saturday of each month.
These collections are held at the DPW (Department of Public Works) on the first Saturday of every month from 9 a.m. to Noon. The DPW is located at 20 Ponderosa Road, Ashland, MA 01721. The items accepted for collection include used motor oil, oil-based paints/stains, fluorescent light bulbs (including CFLs), and rechargeable/button batteries with contained mercury (such as old thermometers and thermostats). It’s important to note that the collection happens behind the red salt barn, not inside the DPW building or garage.
Ashland Day 2023 September 23, 2023 - 10AM to 4PM
Ashland Day is coming up fast! Ashland Day is a time to celebrate the great town we live in. This annual event has been going on since 1986 and continues to go strong (with a brief hiatus for covid). With food, games, and shopping everyone is sure to have a blast!
Apply to be a vendor now!
The vender form can be found here, and for more information visit https://www.ashlandday.com/
Ashland Cultural Council
The Ashland Cultural Council Announces FY 24 Grant Application Cycle September 1, 2023 - . October 17, 2023.
Each year the volunteer members of the Ashland Cultural Council (ACC), under the guidance of the Massachusetts Cultural Council (MCC), encourage
corporations, organizations, schools, and individuals to apply for grants that support cultural activities in Ashland and neighboring communities. These grants can support a wide range of artistic projects and activities including, but not limited to, exhibits, festivals, field trips, artist residencies, performances, workshops, and lectures. ACC!s cultural projects have taken place in schools, community centers, libraries, elder care facilities, town halls, parks and wherever else townspeople come together for the vitality of the community.
Between September 1 and the deadline, October 17, applicants may access the Mass Cultural Council’s online Grants Management System to complete and submit applications to the Ashland Cultural Council and other local councils as well. Grant applications must be submitted to the Ashland Community Council through the online system by the deadline, October 17, 2023, at 11:59:59 p.m. Eastern Time.
Application information can be found at the Massachusetts Cultural Council’s website: https://massculturalcouncil.smartsimple.com/s_Login.jsp
Local guidelines and complete information on the Ashland Cultural Council can be found at,https://www.ashlandmass.com/236/Ashland-Cultural-Council. The Ashland Cultural Council is part of a network of 329 Local Cultural Councils serving all 351 cities and towns in the Commonwealth. The LCC Program is the largest grassroots cultural funding network in the nation, supporting thousands of community-based projects in the arts, sciences and humanities every year. The state legislature provides an annual appropriation to the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency, which then allocates funds to each community.
We’re Hiring!
We are currently looking for candidates to fill the following job postings:
Conservation Department: Light Equipment Operator - Water/Sewer
DPW: Water Technician I, Assistant DPW Director for Administration & Finance
Police Department: Per-Diem Public Safety Dispatcher
Recreation: Recreation Administrative Assistant
For more information please go to the Job Opportunities section of the town website or click the following link: https://www.ashlandmass.com/597/Employment-Opportunities
Wanted: Mural Artists!
The Ashland Cultural Council, along with the Town of Ashland, is proud to present an exciting opportunity for experienced local mural artists in the Ashland and Boston Metrowest area. An artist will be selected to create a public work on the wall of our town’s very first Starbucks, which is undergoing construction at 399 Union Avenue, Ashland.
This piece of art will live on for years to come and embody Ashland’s diversely vibrant community, our dreams of the future, and our honoring of the past.
Artist proposals will be accepted until November 15th.
Proposals should include the following, emailed to
AshlandCulturalCouncil@ashlandmass.com
Subject Line: Mural
1.Artist’s name, resume, artist statement
2 A written description of the proposed mural, including approximate height, width, and materials used
3.Up to five images of artist’s previous work
- Installation budget
Prospective artists will be invited to present their proposals in mid December, with a final decision expected by February, 2024.
Important Construction Updates
Rt. 126/ Pond Street Construction
Culvert work at the Market Basket entrance is ongoing. This initiative will lead to lane restrictions for several more weeks. Market Basket and the businesses in the plaza are still easily accessible! There’s an alternate entrance just slightly south of the main one that remains open for your convenience. There is one lane open both northbound and southbound in this area. Crews will continue work at Culvert 3. Curb work will continue at the Holliston line.
Downtown Construction
Final paving in downtown is now complete. The final striping will occur in a few weeks after the new pavement has time to settle. Temporary stripes will be placed for safety until then.
Crosswalk work has begun and crews will be continuing this work for the next few weeks. Median strips will also be stamped for a nice finished look. Additional landscaping will happen late September.
Priority Project Updates
433 Chestnut Street
Before the pandemic, Ashland took a bold step by acquiring a long-neglected property during the Warren Conference Center’s transition from Northeastern University to Framingham State University/Town of Ashland. Despite its poor condition, this property held immense historical significance, having been the workspace of Henry Warren and his team during the invention of the electric clock. Yet, the pressing challenge was: How could we breathe life back into this valuable relic without the necessary funds?
We came up with an innovative solution: sell the property through an open and competitive RFP (Request for Proposal) process to a dedicated buyer. This buyer would refurbish the property at their own expense, and in return for ownership, commit to preserving key historical features by placing a historic deed restriction on the property. At the conclusion of two RFP’s, we had one proposal from Paul Gustavson.
I’m thrilled to announce that, after two years of dedication and craftsmanship, the property has been magnificently restored. Elements of its rich history are seamlessly woven into the rejuvenated design, from the retention of some of the original woodwork to repurposing old floorboards into a charming bench for the mudroom. Not to mention, the original granite steps and corbels that proudly grace its exterior.
Ultimately, Ashland achieved its vision: resurrecting an invaluable historical gem without raising taxes to pay for it. To my knowledge this is the first time this approach has been used in Massachusetts, so there was no model to work from. And while there were mistakes made and lessons learned and we might tweak our approach in hindsight, the outcome is undeniably something we can all be proud of.
“Before” photo of the front of the house.
During renovation with second floor removed.
Original door and mudroom made with original materials
Facts and Polls
Weekly Poll Question Where is your favorite place in Ashland to hike? The Ashland Town Forrest Warren Woods The River Walk Trolley Brook Trail The Ashland State Park The Hopkinton State Park
Last Weeks Poll Results
Did You Know?
Did you know that, in Ashland, email has become the top choice for residents to stay informed about local news. The Town Manager’s newsletter has seen remarkable growth and engagement. It provides a direct and personal connection between the Town Administration and residents, ensuring timely updates that are easily accessible to everyone.
What sets it apart is its shareability; residents can recommend it to friends, expanding its reach and keeping the community connected. Email has become a symbol of community spirit in Ashland, reflecting the town’s close-knit atmosphere. So, recommend the newsletter to a friend and help keep Ashland residents well-informed!
Community Shoutout!
The Ashland Day Committee
A heartfelt thank you goes out to the Ashland Day Committee for their unwavering dedication and hard work, especially in preparation for Ashland Day on September 23rd from 10 AM to 4 PM.
Since its inception in 1986, Ashland Day has grown into a cherished annual event, supporting youth organizations, community programs, and the enhancement of Ashland’s parks.
The Committee’s year-round efforts have been crucial in bringing our community together through events like the Summer Concert Series, Family Movie Nights, the Halloween Costume Parade, and the Holiday Lighting event.
As we eagerly await this year’s Ashland Day, let’s express our gratitude to the Ashland Day Committee for their commitment and contributions that continue to enrich our community. Your hard work is greatly appreciated!
Shoutout Nomination Form
Do you know someone in town that is working hard to make Ashland an even better place? Let us know! We want to acknowledge all the amazing people that make our town so great! Nominate someone you think deserves an extra shoutout of appreciation. Click HERE to open the nomination form.
If you have any questions or concerns please reach out to Melissa Hayes at mhayes@ashlandmass.com
New Hire!
Katherine Pollender
We’re pleased to introduce Katherine Pollender as our new part-time Public Health Nurse! Katherine brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this crucial role in our community.
With a strong background as a Public Health Nurse and her previous experience as a School Nurse in several schools, Katherine is well-prepared to provide valuable healthcare support to our town. Her dedication to promoting public health and ensuring the well-being of our residents aligns seamlessly with our community’s needs.
Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Katherine as she joins our team. Her contributions as a Public Health Nurse will be instrumental in maintaining the health and safety of Ashland’s residents. Local Meetings, Programs, and Events
Upcoming Meetings
Learn what is happening in your community and tune into our upcoming meetings. Meetings are held at Town Hall in the Select Board Room or remotely and can be viewed with the local cable station, WACA TV.
This week:
Monday, September 11th:
7:00 PM | Conservation Commission Meeting (Zoom)
Tuesday, September 12th:
10:30 AM | Roadway Traffic Study Committee Meeting (In-Person)
7:00 PM | Historical Commission Meeting (Zoom)
7:15 PM | Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting
Wednesday, September 13th:
6:00 PM | School Committee Meeting (Hybrid)
7:00 PM | Town Forest Committee Meeting (In-Person)
Note that all agendas are posted according to Open Meeting Law up to 48 hours in advance. Meetings Calendar
Ashland Farmers Market
Come explore the fresh produce, local goods, and artisanal crafts available. The farmers market is a great way to practice shopping locally and sustainably. We can’t wait to see you there!
The farmers market is this Saturday from
9 AM - 1 PM and is located at 125 Front Street.
Friends of The Ashland Public Library - Mini Book Sale
Mini Book Sales and Donation Days are held the 1st Saturday of every month from 10am-1pm. Exceptions are the Big Sale weekends in March, December, and June. To keep the shelves stocked with fresh selections, the Friends accept donations in the library parking lot of gently used books, audio books and DVDs. Friends volunteers will be available to assist donors during this time. There is also a cart in the mezzanine lobby for donations at any time during library hours.
Kidde-Fenwal Car Show
Saturday September 9th 9am-2pm
400 Main Street Ashland, MA 01721
All Proceeds Benefit the American Cancer Society
Awards @1pm: 1st, 2nd, 3rd Place for Vehicle Categories Sponsor Awards
On the Grass Show Parking!
No Alcohol Please!
$10 CASH - Day of Show
For more information contact Peter: pkpk77@yahoo.com or 508.881.4610
Rain Date: Saturday, September 16, 2023
2023 Stone Park Music Festival
The music festival has been postponed due to poor weather forecast. The event will be moved to the rain date (September30th).
The Stone Park Music Festival is an outdoor classical music festival where you can experience the resonance of music in open nature composed of concerts with great artists featuring soloists, ensembles, and orchestras and a music competition for amateur and professional musicians of various ages and levels.
Sending Sunshine - Card Making for Seniors!
A few weeks ago, Ashland High Schooler Natalia Melnick reached out to me to discuss a new initiative she wanted to do in town. After several discussions with my staff and me, it brings me great pleasure to announce that we are going to help Natalia with her program. “Sending Sunshine” is a nonprofit organization that connects people of all ages in crafting thoughtful cards for senior citizens across the United States and Canada. It’s a meaningful opportunity for high school students seeking volunteer hours or families looking to spend quality time together. The first meeting will be held at The Corner Spot on September 14th from 5-6pm. After this, meetings will move to Wednesday meeting at the library. It would also be great if you could follow the Instagram page: @sendingsunshineca.ashland
Let’s come together to brighten the lives of senior citizens with a touch of sunshine!
Select Board Office Hours
More Select Board Office Hours are coming up!
Join us at the Ashland Farmers Market on Saturday, September 16th, from 9 AM to 12 PM. This is your opportunity to have your questions addressed by Select Board members Yolanda Greaves and Brandi Kinsman.
Town Manager Coffee Hour
Town Manager, Michael Herbert, is having a coffee hour Wednesday, September 20th, at 10am at the Community Center! This is a chance to talk to The Town Manager about what’s on your mind.
Project Empathy - Hopkinton Center for the Arts
Sep 30, 8:00 PM – 9:30 PM
98 Hayden Rowe St, Hopkinton, MA 01748, USA
Bringing the power of human connection to our community. Project Empathy is a performance-based project in which people are tasked with telling each other’s true, personal stories. For 6-8 weeks, the cast engages in empathy exercises, reflective writing, and perspective-taking to build trust and understanding. The connective experience culminates in a performance of stories for an audience.
Ashland Town Manager, Michael Herbert, will be one of the cast members sharing his story!
ACT Ashland Community Theater
A FESTIVAL COMING This Fall
ACT Short Film Festival
October 5-6-7, 2023
Marconi’s Theater at the VFW
311 Pleasant Street Ashland MA
For more information Contact us at
ashlandcommunitytheater@gmail.com
Murder Mystery Dinner
Join the Friends of the Ashland COA for a fun filled evening of great food and mystery!
It’s a 50’s prom theme event so come dressed for the event or casual and be our chaperone.
Friday, October 27, 2023 VFW Hall -311 Pleasant St. Ashland, MA 01721
6:30 PM Cocktail Hour
7:30 Family Style Pot Roast Dinner Catered by TJ’s Food & Spirits N Cash Bar - 50/50 Raffle $55.00 pp Stay connected with us Sign up for our newsletters
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