Three workshops coming to New Salem Public Library
NEW SALEM — The New Salem Public Library is preparing to host three events, scheduled for April 28, April 30 and May 2.
A sourdough workshop is scheduled for 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, April 28. Nicholas D’Alessandro of Hearthstone Artisan Bakery will explain what sourdough culture is, how to maintain it at home and how to incorporate it into your favorite recipes. Participants will take home a healthy sourdough starter.
“Identifying and Managing Invasive Plants” is scheduled for 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 30. Brian Colleran of Ecological Land Management in Deerfield will discuss a variety of invasive plants (including Japanese knotweed and oriental bittersweet) to help people identify and manage them. Colleran is a restoration ecologist and wetland scientist who has been studying the negative effects of Japanese knotweed for more than a decade.
“Shiatsu with Friends 2026,” presented by Shelley Hines, is scheduled for 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 2. This workshop offers a variety of practices to connect, heal bodies and soothe spirits. Participants will explore more deeply as they continue to play with their qi and gather more tools for vibrant health and well-being.
Registration is required. Contact the library at 978-544-6334 or n_salem@cwmars.org.
Nine New Salem students get scholarships
NEW SALEM — After submitting applications, nine New Salem students have received scholarships made possible by residents’ generosity.
The students are: Anna Brown from Four Rivers Charter Public School, Ian Doyle from Franklin County Technical School and Jaye Dulaney from Ralph C. Mahar Regional School, and college students Julia Doyle, Kendrah Doane, Peter Frost, Jeffrey LaPlante, Laura McGinnis and Cameron Doyle.
Wastewater chief operator resigns in Orange
ORANGE — It was announced at the most recent Selectboard meeting that Wastewater Chief Operator Romeo Villar has resigned.
Selectboard Chair Julie Davis explained that Villar said “the time and distance commitment proved to be too much for him.” She thanked Villar for his work.
“He was incredibly qualified and I’m very sad to see him go,” Davis said.
Villar replaced Oscar Rodriguez, who resigned in the late summer.
Davis said that, to ensure continuity, Town Administrator Matthew Fortier has created an interim arrangement with Robert Lilley of Red Tail Services LLC to provide licensing oversight, keeping the plant operational.
Orange Selectboard appoints three to Council on Aging
ORANGE — The Selectboard has appointed three new members to the Council on Aging.
Timothy Sweeney, Laurie MacDonald and Mary Britt received unanimous votes to fill the ranks of the board that supports senior citizens with programs, advocacy and social activities.
Their letters of interest were read aloud by Selectboard member Kelli Gervais at the most recent meeting.