NORTHFIELD — Residents hoping to get the scoop on what’s going on in Northfield need go no farther than Northfield Elementary School Saturday, for the inaugural State of Our Town spaghetti dinner.
The dinner, organized by the Northfield Elementary School Parent-Teacher Organization, was planned as a way for the various entities in town to share what they do, what they’re working on and any articles they might be bringing to the annual town meeting warrant, according to PTO Co-Chair Cheryl George.
“I want to know what’s going on in town,” George said of her inspiration. “The goal is to bring the community together to talk about what’s going on in town, (and) I just want it to be a relaxed, enjoyable evening.”
George said she originally got the idea for a State of Our Town dinner from former Town Administrator Brian Noble, who once lived in a town that held a State of Our Town breakfast.
“I’ve been thinking about a spaghetti supper for a couple of years and thought we could just have the two together,” she said.
With Selectboard Chairman Jack Spanbauer acting as emcee, the list of presenters includes representatives from the Selectboard, Finance Committee, Zoning Bylaw Revision Committee, Cultural Council, Community Preservation Act Committee, Police Department, Kiwanis Club, Community Bible Church and the Northfield Summer Road Race Series.
The two organizations expected to take ownership of the former Northfield Mount Hermon School campus in May — Thomas Aquinas College and The Moody Center — will also be represented, with Thomas Aquinas College President Michael McLean attending.
“He’s willing to take questions from residents if they have them,” George said. “I think that’ll be great for people to hear right from them what their plans are (for the Northfield campus).”
All proceeds from the dinner will benefit the PTO, with tickets to dinner costing $8 for adults and $4 for children ages 5 to 12. Children ages 4 and under eat for free. The menu includes all-you-can-eat spaghetti and meatballs, garlic bread, salad, beverages and dessert.
Doors open at 4:30 p.m. and dinner is served from 5 to 6 p.m. Presentations begin at 6 p.m., though George noted there is no charge to only attend the presentations.
One of the Northfield Elementary School teachers will also offer child care for families, George said.
Reservations are required. To reserve a seat, call or text 413-522-0576, or email northfieldelementarypto@gmail.com.
You can reach Shelby Ashline at: sashline@recorder.com
413-772-0261, ext. 257