‘Being on a team should never be taken for granted’...

Apr 3, 2020 by

Pandemic gives new perspective to Pappas, Warrior track Published in the April 3, 2020 edition. WAKEFIELD — We all know this is bigger than sports.  Thoughts are with the sick and gratitude is with healthcare workers on the front line.  Even in regards to what an extended absence has meant to students especially for Wakefield High’s class of 2020, sports is just one of the elements affected. Yet for student athletes and coaches, COVID-19’s shutdown of the spring sports season has been very difficult. It’s an important part of their own health and wellness, one that includes friendships and a sorely missed community. Wakefield track and field coach Perry Pappas is one of the many Warrior sports leaders who have gained a new perspective.  “Not being able to coach definitely has reminded me how fortunate I am...

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Community garden, playground proposal OK’d...

Apr 3, 2020 by

Published in the April 3, 2020 edition. By MARK SARDELLA WAKEFIELD — At some point, the town will have a community garden and at some point, the Spaulding Street Playground will re-open and will have a new entrance. The Town Council approved both projects at its meeting last week.  The two initiatives were discussed in detail at the Town Council’s Feb. 24 meeting, but because both involve adding structures to local parks, town policy requires a two-week “public comment” period between the initial presentation and the Town Council vote. With social distancing rules in effect, last week’s Town Council meeting was held at the WCAT studio with Chairman Edward Dombroski and Town Administrator Stephen P. Maio present. Other members of the Town Council were able to participate via telephone conference call. Regarding the proposal to...

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Creativity explodes during COVID-19...

Apr 3, 2020 by

Wakefield family uses music to raise spirits Published in the April 3, 2020 edition. By GAIL LOWE WAKEFIELD — A well-known North Shore couple have taken their musical talents to Facebook. Pianist Corey Jackson channels singer Michael Crawford, while his wife Sarah channels Sarah Brightman. Based on positive responses from family and friends, they are helping people get through this anxiety-ridden time when COVID-19 has turned the country upside down. Three Wakefield residents are doing the same but with a twist. Kellie Tropeano, choral and theater director at Bishop Fenwick High School in Peabody and music director at First Baptist Church in Reading, and her two daughters Elly, 14, and Tessa, 18, used their collective musical talents to write humorous lyrics for a song they performed for a YouTube they posted on Facebook. “We...

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Remember the Emergency Fund

Apr 3, 2020 by

Published in the April 3, 2020 edition. Most of the following information comes from the town’s website.  Times are exceptionally hard for some Wakefield residents. If you are in such a situation, consider applying for Wakefield’s Emergency Fund. The goal of the fund is to offer one-time aid that helps an individual or family get back on its feet. By paying a portion of rent or clearing an overdue utility bill, families avoid getting into a debt spiral that can result in utility shutoffs, eviction, and homelessness. Applicants must be residents of Wakefield, but beyond that, the fund administrator has discretion to determine the applicant’s need and the level of assistance. This allows the Town to provide financial help to residents in situations that may fall outside the normal parameters for receiving government aid...

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Four All-Stars named for Wakefield girls’ hockey...

Apr 2, 2020 by

Boudreau is Freedom co-MVP Published in the April 2, 2020 edition. WAKEFIELD — The Warriors got some good news after the Middlesex League’s girls’ hockey coaches met to vote on All-Stars after the season. Wakefield, who finished the campaign with a record of 8-8-4, earning a trip to the Div. 2 State Tournament, had four All-Stars in the Freedom Division: Senior captains Hope Melanson (forward) and Sarah Melanson (defense), sophomore Abby Boudreau (goalie) and freshman Grace Seabury (forward). Boudreau was also named to the All Conference team and the Freedom Division Co-Most Valuable Player of the year along with Burlington’s Bella Hacker. “Our All-Stars have contributed to our team this year in very unique ways,” said Wakefield head coach Chrissy Weeden. “Each of these four girls was a huge part of the reason for our...

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Robert Weathers

Apr 2, 2020 by

Published in the April 2, 2020 edition. WAKEFIELD — It is with great sorrow we say good bye to Robert “Irish” Weathers, loving husband and father to his family and friend to many. He passed away peacefully in his sleep with his wife Sandy at his side on March 30, 2020. He will be greatly missed by all that have had the pleasure of knowing him. Bob was a great husband and father that taught his children how to work. One of his favorite sayings, “learn to work and your fortune will be made” was how he lived his life and provided a life lesson for us all. He was thoughtful and caring to even the most casual of acquaintances. Whether you were family or friend he would give you the shirt off his...

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