There is so much important content we don't want you to miss so this newsletter is pretty long! To ensure you don't miss any of it make sure you click "View entire message" at the bottom left corner of the page!

 Happy Thanksgiving, Ashland!

With Thanksgiving on the horizon, we're grateful for our wonderful town and the connections that make it special. This Thanksgiving, let's reflect on the good times, appreciate our local businesses, and cherish the simple joys of being part of the Ashland community.

Ashland Nyanza Healing Garden Renovation and Reopening

November 18th at 11:00 am

This event may be postponed due to inclement weather. The decision on whether to postpone will be made by 8AM tomorrow. If cancelled, residents will be notified through the Facebook page as well as the Town's website

Throughout the summer, many volunteers and the DPW have worked to refurbish the Ashland Nyanza Healing Garden. Although the late summer's vandalism set us back, we powered through and we are unveiling the finished project at a small ceremony on November 18th. The Ashland Nyanza Healing Garden is located on a town-owned parcel behind the left-field fence at the Ashland Middle School Baseball Field. The healing garden transforms a publicly accessed area near the Superfund site into a space for contemplation.

Special Town Meeting

The Special Town Meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 29th at 7:00 PM at the Ashland High School.

At this town meeting there are 8 Warrant Articles on the agenda. These articles are as follows:

Free Cash Appropriation, Property Tax Exemption, Senior Work Off Program, Accept Donation of Land – 0 Fountain Street, Accept Easement – High Street, Authorize a Home Rule Petition to Increase Liquor Licenses, CPC Funding: Authorize Funding for Dog Park Construction, and CPC Funding: Extend Sunset Date for Riverwalk Funding.

For more information head to the Town Meeting page on the towns website of click HERE.

Turkey Giveaway

It was an amazing group of volunteers that helped out at the annual Turkey giveaway on Monday. It is great to see the community come together and help those in need especially at this time of the year. This program provided Thanksgiving meals to 110 families.

This would not be possible without the financial support from the Ashland Emergency Fund and everyone that donates to this fund. It is truly a community effort and the volunteers that serve on that organization must be commended for their good work! Also a huge thank you to the one of a kind team at the community center. They work hard to provide services that are so needed year long by so many. At this time of Thanksgiving we are extremely thankful for them! Lastly, to the crew of volunteers and members of the fire department and DPW that stood outside in the cold all morning setting up, handing out and wishing people well...we are SO grateful for you!

Veterans Lunch

 I had the privilege of joining our community in a heartfelt Veterans Day lunch at the Ashland Community Center this past Monday. The barbershop quartet set a nostalgic tone, and alongside other speakers, I expressed our deep gratitude to our town's veterans.

Our police and fire departments both sponsored the event and collaborated seamlessly, cooking and serving a delicious meal with genuine warmth, so a special thanks to them. Also thank you to Candi Wilson and her staff at the Community Center for putting it together. Personally, I cherished conversations with many veterans, gaining insights and appreciating their service.

Thanks to all who made this event memorable. Let's continue to honor and appreciate our veterans every day

Last Day for Yard Waste Pickup

Last Call for Yard Waste Pick Up! This Monday, November 20th, marks the final collection day of the fall season. Tidy up your space and let us handle the green. Don't miss out!

Bulky Item Pickup

Remember: Do not leave bulky items on the curb without scheduling a pickup!

Ashland households enrolled in the town’s contracted curbside trash & recycling pick-up service with Waste Management are entitled to have 1 bulky trash item picked up per month. Here's how you can schedule a pick-up:

1. Call Waste Management at 800-972-4545 (Call Center Hours are Monday to Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:50 PM - excluding holidays). When asked the reason for your call, say “schedule a bulk pickup”
2. The system will then attempt to match your phone number with an account on file. Since this will not be applicable for the Ashland residents, you will be told “I don’t recognize the phone number from which you are calling”
3. Then it will ask you for your Customer ID or address. Please say “I don’t have it”
4. Then the system will ask if they are calling for business or residential service at which at this point the resident should say “residential” and they will be connected with a representative.
5. 
   

For more information head to the Bulk Items page on the town website or click the following link: https://www.ashlandmass.com/775/Bulk-Items

Let's keep Ashland beautiful and winter-ready!

Ashland Citizen Academy

Learn the inner workings of Ashland with our NEW Citizens Academy!

Overview:

Join our 8-week program starting in January and dive deep into the inner workings of Ashland. Connect with department heads, explore town facilities, and participate in interactive activities.

There are limited spots available. Applications for the January - May 2024 session opening soon. Embrace the opportunity to engage with your community's government. Visit our webpage (https://www.ashlandmass.com/1103/Citizens-Academy) for more details!

How to Apply:

If you are interested in applying please fill out the Google form application at https://tinyurl.com/Citizens-Academy-Sign-Up-Form

If you have any questions about the program please email Jenn Ball at jball@ashlandmass.com

Parking Ban

A reminder that the overnight parking ban begins November 1 and ends March 31. The ban states: "It shall be unlawful for the driver of any vehicle, other than one acting in an emergency, to park said vehicle on any street for the period of time longer than one hour between the hours of 2 - 6 a.m. any day of the week."

Fill-A-Cruiser

Join the Ashland and Holliston Police Departments for their Annual “Fill-A-Cruiser” Event! This event will take place on Sunday, December 10th from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM at the Ashland Big Lots (41 Pond Street, Ashland).

Help “Fill-A-Cruiser” to support Toys for Tots! Officers from Holliston and Ashland Police will be collecting new, unwrapped, non-violent toys!

CodeRED

CodeRED is an emergency notification system. Residents can sign up for call, text, or email notifications directly from the Town. This system will keep residents informed during emergency situations, like weather emergencies and road closures, but, it also gives you an option to receive general town notifications such as delayed rubbish pick up.

Click HERE to sign up!

Ashland Reiki & Wellness

Discover tranquility at Ashland Reiki & Wellness, conveniently located on Front Street. Established with a focus on relaxation and rejuvenation, this wellness center invites you to escape the stresses of daily life and embrace a holistic approach to well-being.

Operating Hours:

Thursday/Friday: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Saturday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Closed: Sunday-Wednesday

Contact Ashland Reiki & Wellness:

Phone: (617) 650-0455

Website: https://www.ashlandreiki.com/

Step into Ashland Reiki & Wellness for a journey of self-care and holistic healing!

November is our favorite month to spotlight the many businesses in Ashland that need your support. While shopping for the holidays remember that shopping local makes a big difference in your community! Support your local businesses, they are part of our community and they make us stronger.

For a full listing of Ashland businesses CLICK HERE.

To visit out Shop Local webpage CLICK HERE.

COVID 19 Test Kits

Free Covid 19 Test Kits are now available in Town Hall.

Be sure to stop by to pick up your free test kit. The Board of Health office is located on the 2nd floor of Town Hall.

FLU & COVID* Vaccine Clinic

*RSV, Shingles and Tetanus vaccines are also available*

Wednesday, November 29th, 10:00AM-1:00PM

Ashland Town Hall, 101 Main Street

Tuesday, December 5th, 10:00AM-1:00PM

Ashland Town Hall, 101 Main Street

Wednesday, December 13th, 10:00AM-1:00PM

Ashland Town Hall, 101 Main Street

- For Ashland residents 3 years or older

- Please bring your insurance card

- COVID IS LIMITED AVAILABILITY, YOU MUST PRE-REGISTER

Register Here: https://hipaa.jotform.com/222415952385156

Brought to you by the Ashland Board of Health in partnership with Milford Central Pharmacy

If you have any questions, please call the Board of Health Office at 508-881-0100 x 1975

The Warren Barn

Those of you who have been in town for a few years remember Henry Warren's milking barn, the iconic red barn on Chestnut Street next to the Warren Conference Center. The town purchased that property a few years ago as part of the Framingham State acquisition of the Warren Conference Center. The intent was to restore the barn to its original glory and restore that iconic vista driving down Chestnut. Sadly, we never got that opportunity because shortly after we purchased it the center beam collapsed and we needed to raze it. But the original silo remains, and we are determined to rebuild the barn in the form that it originally stood.

Thanks to the support of Senate President Spilka, Ashland was awarded $750,000 for this effort, which will go a long way towards rebuilding the barn. Focus on that rebuilding has shifted to late 2024 as we finish up a plethora of other municipal projects currently underway, but as we get closer to that date, we will have more information about funding mechanisms, how we are going to do it, and why its reconstruction is important to all of us.

Weekly Poll Question

The Town of Ashland will be hosting a Citizens Academy, and in this academy, we will educate citizens on the inner workings of our town, providing an in-depth look into the various departments and services that make Ashland thrive. While we are in the process of planning the curriculum we want to know what you want to know! The next few weeks the poll will be asking you about what topics you are interested in for each department.

Last Weeks Poll Results

Did You Know?

Did you know Ashland Public Library offers exciting programs for teens and a unique 'Library of Things'?

Teen Room:

Designed for grades 6-12, the Teen Room welcomes teens and allows brief visits for parents and siblings. It's a vibrant space for students to explore and access library materials with the support of dedicated staff.

Library of Things:

Ever heard of borrowing a Nintendo Switch or a Thermal Imaging Camera from the library? Ashland's 'Library of Things' offers a variety of electronics, puzzles, and games for the whole family. From board games like Scrabble and Monopoly to tech tools like a thermal imaging camera or a Nintendo Switch, you can try them out before buying or enjoy them for a one-time use. Check out the Minuteman Catalog for the full list of exciting items available for borrowing!

Raymond Harding

Introducing Raymond Harding, our newest 911 Dispatcher at the Town of Ashland. With a rich background in emergency management and response, Raymond brings ten years of security and safety expertise to our team.

Raymond's extensive experience, certifications, and training make him an invaluable addition to our emergency response team. Please join us in welcoming Raymond as he brings his exceptional skills and knowledge to enhance the safety and well-being of our community.

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

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, November 20th:

7:00 PM | Conservation Commission - Zoom

Tuesday, November 21st:

11:00 AM | Hoarding Task Force

6:00 PM | Board of Health Meeting - Zoom

6:00 PM | School Committee Meeting - Hybrid

7:00 PM | Library Board of Trustees - Hybrid

Note: Agendas are posted according to Open Meeting Law at least 48 hours in advance.

Ashland Pre-Thanksgiving Farmers Market

November 19 10 AM - 1 PM | 125 Front Street

Ashland Farmers Market is coming back for a Pre-Thanksgiving Market at our 125 Front St location from 10-1! Stock up on all your favorite vendors before the holiday season!

Historic Cemetery Restoration: A Pathway To Success

118 Main Street, Ashland | November 19th 2:00 pm

Join us for a Historic Cemetery Restoration Event by The Ashland Historic Society and Commission, partnering with TNT Gravestone Solutions LLC, Todd Baptista, Troy Rebello, and Dawn Young.

Walk and talk at the Village Burial Grounds behind the Federated Church (118 Main Street, Ashland MA). Engage, ask questions, and see the cleaning process with D/2 solution.

Rain or shine, find us at Ocean House (2 Myrtle Street, Ashland MA). Parking behind Town Hall (101 Main Street) or across from the Ashland Public Library (66 Front Street).

Light refreshments provided. Bring a portable chair for comfort. Connect with Ashland's history.

Holiday Stroll

Downtown Ashland

Saturday Dec. 2nd | 12-4 p.m.

Take a delightful stroll through downtown to shop and enjoy holiday festivities! As you wander, you'll discover a plethora of local boutiques and pop-up shops, creating the perfect opportunity to check off your holiday shopping list. But there's more than just shopping! Check out the activities at The Corner Spot! Roast marshmallows at the fire pit, buy a wreath from the Boy Scouts, grab some cookies from the Girl Scouts, tell Santa what you want for Christmas, and enjoy hot chocolate, cider, and noodles from Doragon Ramen!

Don't forget to collect stamps as you shop! Every unique shop you make a purchase from earns you a stamp. Once you've gathered five or more stamps, you can enter to win our Holiday Stroll Raffle. The more you shop the better chances you have! To enter, just drop off your stamped passport into one of our designated ballot boxes, which can be found throughout the different shopping locations.

Raffle Prizes:

Grand Prize: $250 Visa Gift Card

Second Prize: Two $50 gift cards to local restaurants

Other Prizes: Mystery bags filled with goodies from various local vendors

To stay up to date on the event CLICK HERE!

Comprehensive Plan ~

Envision Ashland

Community Visioning Open House

December 2nd, 12pm-4pm

Ashland Town Hall

Calling on Ashland! We are pleased to announce the very first Community Visioning Open House by the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee, happening concurrently in Rooms B/C at Town Hall.

Be there to get more information about 'Envision Ashland' - our first major town plan since '03! Do you have a vision for Ashland? It's your chance to share it. In just 10 minutes, learn how you can weave your vision into the fabric of our future. Let’s shape a town that reflects all of our hopes and ideas.

Check the website for more information.

https://tinyurl.com/ashlandCP

Ashland Tree Lighting

Saturday, December 2nd, 4-5 p.m.

At Main Street in Green Square

After the Holiday stroll is Ashland’s Annual Tree Lighting!

Come on down to Green Square on Main Street for hot cocoa, cookies, caroling, and the annual tree lighting ceremony!

There will be fun live characters spreading holiday cheer and Santa will make an appearance too! Don’t miss out!

The lights light up the big tree at 4:30pm to light the way for Santa!

Friends of the Ashland Public Library Book Sale

The Friends of the Ashland Public Library's invite you to their Full Day Book Sale on December 2, 2023. The event features a members-only preview on December 1 from 6 pm to 8 pm and is open to the public on December 2 from 10 am to 4 pm.

Explore a wide range of gently used books, movies, and audiobooks for all ages. Donations are still welcome, and you can drop them off in the library parking lot. There's a dedicated donation cart in the mezzanine lobby available during library hours.

The sale includes thousands of titles, organized by genre and author, with a special section for children's books. If you can't attend, you can still find great books on the 1st floor of the library during regular hours.

All proceeds from these sales support programs for all age groups and Museum Passes.

Oil Mercury and Oil-based Paint Collection Day

Saturday, December 2nd | 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

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.

Illuminate Ashland

Dec 9th | 4:30 pm - 7:30 pm

What is Illuminate Downtown Ashland?

Founded in 2017 by studio director Chrissy Reynolds, Illuminate Downtown Ashland is a community event that aims to shine a light on the important role art plays within a community. Annemarie's Dance Centre alongside the town of Ashland and Arts! Ashland Alliance partner local art and artists with community spaces both public and private. 

What Does 2023 Look like?

Live audiences are welcome in the several locations around downtown to view the art, hear the music and experience the dancing. Annemarie's Dance Centre, The Corner Spot, Ashland Historical Society, Blush Bouquet, Needham Bank and Ashland Reiki & Wellness will host live performances and art works for the community to enjoy. Ashland High School Chorus, Neayong Cho, The Drum Nomads, , International Trio, The Cardinal Joe Stillitano & The Movement Project Performance Company will occupy the spaces for a night of free performance and luminaries. 

8 Crazy Nights Hanukkah Party

Sunday Dec. 10th, 10-11:30 AM

Sha'arei Shalom Temple

Please join us for our community Hanukkah celebration.

Activities include:

• 8 Fun Hanukkah themed Games
• Music with Rabbi Craig
• Lots of creative crafts
• Best latke contest

Snacks and beverages will be provided.

$5 per child by 12/5 for grades K-5 or $7 at the door. Free for pre-K children.

For details and payment, contact Lisa Brown at school@shaareishalom.org.

Menorah Lighting

Sunday Dec. 10th at 6pm

Montenegro Square

100-196 Main Street

Join us for a fun community gathering led by Rabbi Craig. We’ll say the Hanukkah blessings and sing some traditional songs as we light the big menorah.

Enjoy the next APS Concert

Wednesday night's band concert was a fantastic evening showcasing Ashland's 7th grade, 8th grade and high school bands. Each band performed challenging pieces they had diligently practiced since the beginning of the school year. The evening culminated with all three bands playing together at once - over 100 students on the stage together!! Thank you to everyone who attended the concert; your support encourages everyone on stage!

Please join the Ashland Music Associate at the next concert on Dec 8th. It's an evening of holiday music and a special reading of the Polar Express for the young - and young at heart!

Ashland High School, 65 E Union St. All performances are free and open to the public!