By K.B. Sherman, Community Reporter
Shrewsbury – At its July 24 meeting, the Shrewsbury Board of Selectmen issued proclamations honoring two townspeople.
John “Jack” H. Bowles, of 24 Spruce St., was honored with a “proclamation for service to his community.” Bowles was appointed to the Shrewsbury Parks Commission in April 1970, and in 1973 became chair of that committee, a post he still holds. It was noted that under his leadership the successful annual Fourth of July celebration was initiated. He was also noted for being instrumental in the development of several community recreation programs, the stewardship of the Dean Park baseball field, tennis courts, and other projects. He has also been involved in the expansion and preservation of the Mountain View Cemetery, an effort for which townspeople have expressed appreciation to the board.
Selectman Maurice DePalo noted that Bowles has over the years continued to increase neighborhood participation in park events, while Selectman John Lebeaux noted that it was “hard to do the math to account for the thousands of town kids who have benefitted from the sports programs mentored by Bowles.”
Bowles stated that he was “happy to have been able to benefit the town” through his efforts.
Also honored by the selectmen was Chip Emerson, president and CEO of Southgate at Shrewsbury, 30 Julio Drive, an independent living community for senior citizens. The selectmen issued a “proclamation to honor Southgate at Shrewsbury for their continued generosity to the town of Shrewsbury.” The proclamation states that Southgate recently chose to support the civic life of the town by helping restore the civic announcements sign at the intersection of Maple Avenue and Main Street. The Selectmen noted the generosity of Emerson, who used his own time and money on the project.
Following the proclamations, the board approved the transfer of a liquor license to the new owner of Edgemere Discount Wine and Spirits, 10 Hartford Turnpike, as well as approved one-time fair and liquor licenses to St. Mary's Catholic Church, 16 Summer St., for a festival to be held Sept. 14 to 16.