Rotary Round-Up:
News of the Ashburnham/Westminster Rotary

In October, we enjoyed a number of interesting and informative speakers.

On Wednesday, Oct. 4, Derek and Jennifer Rochan from Westminster talked about their proposal to create a paintball park on land on Narrows Road. Derek discussed the growing popularity of the sport and possibilities for a successful facility in this area. The park would have several game areas and would provide referees. The Rochans will be presenting their plan to the Westminster Zoning Board of Appeals.

On Wednesday, Oct. 11, David Crowley of the Wachusett Village Inn spoke about the history of his family's association with the Inn, and the possibility of locating a "big box" store on land he and his siblings own between the Inn and Mr. Mike's Exxon/Mobil. Any such store will require a change in the town's current zoning regulations; such a change is now under discussion.

On Wednesday, Oct. 18, we had a valuable presentation by Officer Ralph LeBlanc of the Westminster Police Department. He spoke about two interrelated topics: how

the Internet can be used by thieves to steal personal information about others (identity theft), and how it can be used by pedophiles to lure their victims to private meetings. He offered several suggestions on how to avoid both dangers, including educating children on the safe use of the Internet, and minimizing the use of credit - particularly debit - cards.

If you are interested in finding out more about Rotary, call Roland Morin at (978) 537-1010.

Upcoming event:

+ The Ashburnham/Westminster Rotary Club will be sponsoring a wine and chocolate tasting from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 17, at the Wachusett Village Inn. The cost is $15 per person or $25 per couple. All proceeds will go to support Rotary charities such as the fight against polio, and local causes such as WAVE and the community food banks. There will be a local vendors showcase with items available for holiday shopping, auctions and raffles, and light hor d'oeuvres will be served. Don't miss this enjoyable occasion!