January

And the Winner is!

By Michele Taranto

The public and guest judges have spoken! Congratulations to the winners of the Friends of Norwood Center and Norwood Rotary Club’s 1st Annual Norwood Window Competition, ‘The Magic of Winter’! The contest kicked off on Small Business Saturday, November 30, and ran through Sunday, December 15. Residents were encouraged to view each beautifully-decorated storefront with a map of participating locations and then cast their vote for the People’s Choice Award!

The clear winner for the People’s Choice Award was Chelala Jewelers! 

The panel of four judges, Norwood Town Manager Tony Mazzucco, Norwood Selectman Amanda Grow, acting Norwood Recreation Director Sam White, and Norwood Police Officer Baguma and his canine companion, Mustang Sally, also voted for their choices in the categories of Most Original, Most Local, and Most Whimsical.

Most Original: Modern Eyes

Most Local: Custom Art Framing

Most Whimsical: The Cove

There were 11 businesses in total who competed in the contest, and each one deserves recognition and appreciation to help Norwood celebrate the holiday season. Each business committed to developing a welcoming and eye-catching storefront display reflective of their industry and personalities. The windows were spectacular to view day or night and while already a charming town, their embellishments made shopping, window browsing, and even walking a more pleasurable event! 

Charles River Running

Emerald City Plant Shop

The Lark Center

Moon Lily Boutique

Tax Solutions

Mazeri Hair Salon

February

Happy 100th Birthday WCC!

By Michele Taranto

A century. That is an impressive operational milestone for any organization, but that is exactly how long the Women’s Community Committee of Norwood (WCC) has been supporting its residents. Their discreet yet invaluable presence is felt all around town. Some may notice their sponsorship through flyers or programs, but their backing is often behind the scenes. See, these women did not join the WCC for the accolades; they joined for the sole reason of aiding their town and enhancing its residents’ experience and quality of life.

This is just a sampling of the tremendous effort and support the WCC provides to Norwood on a yearly basis:

• Annually fund seven scholarships and two awards to graduating Norwood seniors

• Makes two yearly monetary donations to each school in town

• Contribute to the 4th of July and holiday parades

• Donate to the summer and winter concerts

• Pay for library passes to eight different zoos and museums

• Participate in the Halloween Hunt

• Sends gift cards to the Senior Center at Thanksgiving and Christmas

• Donated to the Salvation Army and school bins

• Helps those in need through its social service program

• Fulfills special requests at schools for competitions

• Continually work with Norwood Fire and Polce in various programs

• Supports the Circle of Hope

• Work with Meals on Wheels

• Contribute to the beautification of Norwood (flowers, trees, benches)

• Provide free yearly babysitting course

In their tenure, they have had a hand in many areas throughout town.

• Funded dental care to school students

• Provided a handicap accessible picnic bench at the Community Garden apple orchard.

• Donated benches for seating and a bookcase to the Morrill Memorial Library

• Provided audio books to nursing homes

• Refurbished a room in Norwood hospital

• Funded the brick walkway and bench in front of the post office

To learn more about the Women’s Community Committee and the thrift shop, call 781-762-2991, or visit the shop during open hours: Wednesdays, 6-8 p.m., Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m., and Saturdays, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Donations of clean, saleable items are accepted on Monday and Wednesday mornings, 9-11 a.m., or during regular retail hours. The shop has been operating since 1927, only two years after the organization was founded. It is also proudly one of Norwood’s oldest establishments in continuous operation.

March

Sam White Leads Recreation Department

By Michele Taranto

You may or may not have seen Sam White at a Norwood recreation event. He was always there, but quietly leading from the background, watching, and on the ready to grab a chair when needed, jump in to lend a hand, or simply welcome a guest or participant. He continues that enthusiastic spirit today, but just in a different role; Norwood Recreation Department Superintendent.

White’s journey into recreation will be no surprise when residents learn about his background. He grew up in the small town of Poultney, VT, was a very active athlete, but basketball and football would eventually become his passion through high school. 

“Recreation has always played a significant role in my life,” White said. “Ultimately, it led me to study sports management at Lasell University where I also played basketball.”

After Lasell, the state of Vermont welcomed him back to pursue a Master’s in Athletic Administration at Castleton University.

Probably the best part about Norwood’s new recreation superintendent is his love for sports, fun, and community. Any resident who has participated or attended a Norwood-sponsored event has likely met Sam. He would be the guy with a big smile on his face and working hard to ensure everything runs smoothly and a good time is had by all.

“Our department is powered by an incredible team of four full-time staff members, including myself, Marie Kidd (program coordinator), Howard Weinstein (recreation administrator), and Allison Penza (assistant recreation administrator),” White said.

April

Run Norwood Run!

By Michele Taranto

The 129th Boston Marathon starting gun will go off on Monday, April 21. The men’s and women’s wheelchairs will start at 9:06 a.m. and 9:09 a.m., respectively, handcycles and duos at 9:30 a.m., and professional men and women at 9:37 a.m. and 9:47 a.m., the para-athletics division at 9:50 a.m., then waves 1-4 through 11:15 a.m.

A total of 18 Norwood residents will be lacing up and heading to Hopkinton on Patriot’s Day to take part in this local, national, and international renowned tradition. They have spent months testing and strengthening their muscles and endurance, battled New England weather, all to reach their goal of 26.2 miles and cross that finish line in Copley Square.

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Name Age

Thomas Ahearn 61

Ryan Bower 39

Jillian Cartwright 28

Ashling Devaney 26

Michael Duggan 38

Connor Flynn 27

Amanda Jaccino 31

Kirsten Kalkhurst Burbo 57

Allison Kelleher 24

Jack Kelley 23

Sean Kineavy 28

John Mcgourty 65

Roberta Myers 59

Du Park 34

Jaclyn Poulos 45

Valerie Quinlan 27

Sean Rooney 45

Erik Vik 32

May

From Homework to Hardware

5th graders turn passion for tech into real world success

By Jennifer Russo

When many fifth-grade boys are busy mastering levels and obtaining virtual items in video games, two very business-minded kids took it upon themselves to go on a real-life quest instead. Michael Glushchenko and Finn Hughes are students at St. Catherine’s School in Norwood, and have been great friends for some time, both sharing a love for technology and an ambition for business ideas. After building a couple of gaming computers completely from scratch and selling them to Hometown Arcade, they can now say they are business partners too. 

“Michael has always been very entrepreneurial,” Glushchenko’s mother Rodie said. “He and Finn tried to start a snow shoveling business a few years ago, at 8-9 years old, and he also sold tomato plant seedlings one summer. We really support his curiosity and endeavors!”

What impressive planning taken on by these ambitious young men. Inspired by online videos of people building computers, the boys needed to do some research to understand what materials they needed, create a budget, find and purchase the parts, and locate a potential buyer.

Like any business venture, it required some upfront capital funds, and the boys invested money they had saved from events like birthdays and holidays to purchase the parts they needed. 

When they were done building the computer, they posted it on Facebook Marketplace and were thrilled to see that there was a huge amount of interest. The owner of Hometown Arcade, Matt Snow, bought it and was very impressed.

“We needed a pretty powerful gaming computer for one of the arcade games and found the listing,” Snow said. “The price was almost too good to be true given the specs of the machine (and unfortunately, you need to be worried about the large number of scammers out there). However, after talking with one of the boy’s dads, we worked out a deal and they brought the PC by our arcade in Norwood later that day. The machine exceeded our expectations and has been great for us. We ended up needing another PC for our location in NJ and the boys put a second one together for us. They really know what they’re doing from a tech standpoint and are pretty savvy entrepreneurs as well! We are super happy and lucky to have found them, and we will definitely be buying more machines from them in the future.  Just great kids all around.”

Editor’s Note: Just after deadline, Snow put in a third order for another computer!

June

Freedom Rings on the Common

By Bella Caggiano

The original mission of the Juneteenth holiday is to commemorate and educate the freedom of slaves in America. It is also a time to celebrate diverse cultures that were brought to or reside in the United States and rejoice in their music, food, and traditions. And in true Norwood fashion, this collective event has grown over three years, thanks to local residents and businesses, and initial organizer, Norwood Police Officer Geoffrey Baguma, and his committee, Jua Robinson, Recreation Director Sam White, Morrill Memorial Library Director Clayton Cheever, and Leshia Karasik.

“It’s an excellent opportunity for the town to come together and learn together while celebrating the federal holiday of Juneteenth,” Officer Baguma said. 

The Norwood Town Common will again be filled with eating, dancing, and singing, for the 4th Annual Juneteenth celebration on Saturday, June 14, 12:30-3:30 p.m. Bring comfortable shoes, chairs, and an appetite for the fun-filled afternoon for all ages. With many news acts this year, the afternoon will include many musical and tasteful options, such as Further Notice, Caleb McCoy, DJ Beez (Derrick Beasley), talented Norwood High School and Coakley Middle students, and much more! There will also be a variety of fare to try from Rincon Caribeno, Between the Bunz, Oasis Caribbean Cuisine, Crazy Tacos, Simple Sweets, and a Lewis’ beer garden! 

Juneteenth, short for June 19, the day of the liberation, commemorates the date when federal troops marched into Galveston, TX, in 1865, two and a half years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation to ensure the freedom of slaves. On June 17, 2021, it officially became a national holiday honoring the end of slavery in the United States. 

“Every year that we put together Norwood Juneteenth, the goal is to always educate and celebrate,” Officer Baguma said. “This is and will always be a great opportunity to learn together. By learning together, we can understand each other better. With a greater understanding of each other, we can then celebrate our new found connection. 

July

Marching into Independence

By Bella Caggiano

The Norwood 4th of July Committee has done it again, planning one of the most magnificent Independence Day celebrations in the region! This year’s theme, “Norwood Celebrates Education,” is especially meaningful with the upcoming opening of the new Coakley Middle School. In the words of civil rights leader Frederick Douglass, “Education is the key to unlock the golden door of freedom”—a fitting tribute to this year’s festivities.

Since its founding in 1872, the Town of Norwood has proudly hosted its spectacular 4th of July celebration. Known for its patriotism and community pride, Norwood continues to be the destination for joyful, all-ages events that celebrate America’s freedom.

Event Schedule – Friday, July 4, 2025:

1:00 p.m. – Children’s Parade
Downtown Norwood comes alive with the beloved Children’s Bicycle, Tricycle, Doll Carriage, and Historical Character Parade, led by The Colonial Boys.

Fee: $1 per child

Over 300 participants will receive a festive t-shirt and ribbon

Winners (best decorations) will be invited to ride in the Grand Parade!

2:00 p.m. – Frederick Douglass Reading
At the Old Parish Cemetery (rear of 480 Washington St.), volunteers will deliver a moving public reading of “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?” by abolitionist Frederick Douglass.

Free and open to the public.

2:30 p.m. – Carillon Concert & Tower Tours
Enjoy a stirring concert from the 50-bell Memorial Carillon at Norwood Town Hall, performed by Lee Leach and Margaret Angelini of Wellesley College.

Tours of the bell tower will be available during the concert.

5:00 p.m. – Norwood Firecracker 5K Road Race
Lace up for Norwood’s Firecracker 5K, a fast, flat course cheered on by thousands.

Applications available at Town Hall, the Civic Center, the Morrill Memorial Library, and Racewire.com

Runners compare the crowd energy to the Boston Marathon!

5:30 p.m. – Fire Truck Procession & Military Reenactment
The excitement builds as the Eastern MA Fire Truck Procession, Antique & Classic Cars, and Historic Military Reenactment roll through South Norwood to Shaw’s Plaza.

Don’t miss the WWII, Korean War, and military vehicle displays—famous for their roaring sirens!

5:45 p.m. – The Grand Parade
The main event! Featuring:

National & international marching bands

Floats, entertainers, local groups, and dignitaries

A thrilling display of music, pride, and community spirit

Celebrating Norwood’s Spirit

The Norwood 4th of July Committee worked tirelessly to make this day unforgettable. This event wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of:
Maria Henry (Chair), Mary Cantarow, Martha Colamaria, Lou Harris, Lee Leach, the Norwood Amateur Radio Club, and staff liaisons Michael Rosen and Kevin Broderick.

August

Mustang Sally Makes the Pages!

By Michele Taranto

Almost anyone who lives in Norwood has at least heard of Mustang Sally, but the town cannot keep her all to themselves. With her new book on the shelves, the literary world can now learn what one four-legged friend has done to help her residents. 

Mustang Sally’s primary handler Norwood Police Officer Geoff Baguma has witnessed firsthand the many positive interactions and the meaningful impact the Town’s “secret weapon” has had on its residents. With that in mind, he envisioned a children’s book as the perfect way to commemorate and share her adventures. Officer Baguma developed the idea through Impact Norwood, the Town’s substance use prevention coalition, and soon the name of Norwood High School sophomore Peter Jeneid came up as a potential illustrator. 

Jeneid spent time observing Norwood’s first therapy dog and the impact she had on students throughout the town’s schools. Sally, who has become a familiar face at Norwood High, plays a unique role in promoting student wellness and mental health.

“She’s more than just a school mascot,” Jeneid explained. “She brings a personal touch to the school day. Seeing her in the hallways or getting a moment with her helps students reset and feel more grounded. Everyone has their own story about her.”

The book highlights Sally’s daily routines, interactions with students, and her calming presence, all told through a colorful, illustrated lens. Jeneid both wrote and illustrated the entire project, showcasing his range of creative talents.

“The Adventures of Mustang Sally: Sally Goes to School” is now available for purchase on Amazon. For those who have met her in person, there should always be a place on the bookshelf to pass on for generations.

September

The Best Part of Fall? Norwood Day Returns Sept. 7

Norwood is gearing up for its biggest celebration of the year. On Saturday, Sept. 7, from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., downtown Norwood and the Town Common will be filled with music, food, games, and neighbors gathering for the annual Norwood Day Festival.

The popular event, which draws from bordering towns and beyond, hosts between 13,000 and 15,000 visitors each year. They come to experience the best Norwood has to offer as it showcases the best of the community with live entertainment, carnival rides, food from local restaurants, sidewalk sales, and more than 160 booths featuring businesses, non-profit groups, and town departments. Washington Street and streets surrounding the Town Common will be closed to traffic to accommodate attendees and make this a true hometown event with easy access to everything.

The official celebration starts with rides and amusements, a performance stage at Washington and Walpole streets outside Conrad’s, and vendors filling both Washington Street and the Common. Castle Island Brewing will again host a beer garden adjacent the Common, opening at 11:30 a.m. Attendees with a Norwood Day button can enjoy free samples, while full pours will be available for purchase with valid ID.

October

A Tradition of Treasures: Norwood’s Craft Affair Enters its 31st Year

By Michele Taranto

For three decades, Norwood’s The Craft Affair has been a beloved fall tradition. Now entering its 31st year, this event continues to draw crowds of shoppers and an impressive lineup of vendors from across New England, proof of Norwood’s flair for hosting spectacular community gatherings.

On Saturday, Oct. 18, from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Norwood High School (NHS), the 31st Annual ‘The Craft Affair’ will host more than 90 vendors that will fill the gymnasium with unique, handmade items. Shoppers can browse an incredible array of goods, including sewn, crocheted, and knitted pieces, jewelry, pet items, holiday décor, wreaths, stained glass, jams and jellies, mirrors, paintings, scarves, soaps, wooden toys, quilts, ornaments, ceramics, and so much more. The popular raffle corner will feature chances to win handmade treasures and gift certificates, while the bake sale, complimentary kids’ craft corner, and hand-painted pumpkins from the NHS Friendship Club enhance the festive atmosphere.

But The Craft Affair is more than just a shopping destination; locally, it’s one of Norwood High School’s biggest fundraisers. Profits have grown steadily over the years, with recent events generating $15,000–$18,000 annually.

November

From Turkey to Tinsel!

By Michele Taranto

Thanksgiving weekend has it all. An epic meal, football, family and friends, bargain hunting, holiday decorating, and, of course, delicious leftovers! It truly is a perfect combination, and something for everyone.

The celebrations could be considered launching on Wednesday. It starts with preparing the menu, and quite often continuing into Wednesday night catching up with friends at local establishments. Thursday the menu is the primary focal point but then comes the football huddle, and maybe a nap. Friday, the hunt for the perfect gift begins, followed by turkey sandwiches. On Small Business Saturday, shoppers are encouraged to support small, local businesses, and that means browsing Norwood’s many independent shops, or grabbing a bite at one of the town’s many local restaurants. And just when you think the weekend couldn’t get any better, Norwood has the perfect way to wrap it up — the Holiday Tree Lighting on Sunday, November 30!

This celebration captures the true spirit of the season; a joyful afternoon spent with family, friends, and neighbors before the Christmas rush begins. In true Norwood fashion, the town once again hosts a free, family-friendly event that has become one of its most beloved holiday traditions.

The Holiday Tree Lighting will take place on Sunday, Nov. 30, 1:30 to 4 p.m., on the Norwood Town Common. Kids can run in the Reindeer Dash, and families will enjoy horse-drawn hayrides, performances by the Madrigals, the Band Gig School of Music, and Kinetic Dance Studio, along with arts and crafts, games, face painting, and holiday readings. The afternoon concludes with a parade, and the much-anticipated arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus, who will light up the Common to officially welcome the holiday season!

December

Luminary Night Shines for its 24th Season

By Michele Taranto

It’s officially the holiday season. The entertainment industry portrays this time as filled with leisurely baking and decorating cookies, shopping for just the right gifts, creative wrapping ideas, and parties overflowing with laughter. But in reality, it can feel like just a few short weeks of checklists and social obligations, mixed with a little mayhem.

In Norwood, however, an annual event offers an opportunity to slow down and experience a heartwarming moment filled with gratitude and remembrance.

The Circle of Hope Foundation (COH) will host its 24th annual Luminary Night on Saturday, Dec. 6, from 4 to 6 p.m., on the Norwood Town Common. Described by many as “magical,” the evening glows with community spirit and heartfelt reflection.

“The candles will be lit beginning at 4 p.m., and the Foundation members welcome residents and friends to come out and see this beautiful sight,” the Circle of Hope committee said in a press release.

Residents are invited to gather at the Town Gazebo to pay tribute to family members and friends or simply unite in support of Norwood’s compassionate community. Luminaries are purchased in remembrance of a loved one, each bearing a brief message of life, hope, remembrance, or tribute to the season. The glowing bags line the sidewalks surrounding the Walter Dempsey Bandstand, creating a breathtaking and uplifting scene.

Last year, Norwood’s town center shimmered with more than 2,000 luminaries and raised $10,000 for local residents in need.