Page 61 - Middleborough 2024 Town Report

MIDDLEBOROUGH
P A R KMIDDLEBOROUGH
DEPARTMENT
It might be worthy to note that as the even wore on, the
bonfire started to fizzle. Underestimating the need for a
substantial blaze, the Park didn’t plan for a 3 hour fire. A
one hour delay from the Firework shootists was a big
contributor to this failing. But worry not, Selectman Mark
Germain and Town Manager Jay McGrail (alongside DPW
workers) raided the Town Hall lawn of obsolete Christmas
trees like Washington attacked the Hessians. These
gentlemen procured the many trees and took it upon
themselves to launch them into the blaze. And as the fire
grew, so did the oohs and aahs from the crowd... Credit
should be given where credit is due. These two pencil
pushers stepped it up with exhilarating throws and quick
thinking.
Normally the month of January was devoted to the task of
cleaning up the Holiday event and storing decorations.
However, 2024 brought upon a new event. Town Manager
jay McGrail had the idea of a bonfire to usher in the new
year for Middleboro residents. He thought even the
addition of a noise parade would make it especially fun for
the youth to wreak havoc and make some noise. Parents
could help warm up as they walked alongside a moving
cacophony. The Park would get wood for the bonfire and
make barrels of fire to create heating stations. The Town
Manager also provided funding for the evening Magnus
Opus: fireworks. Everyone loves fireworks! A short display
considerate to families and pets before 8 PM. It was a really
nice event. Attended by over 1,500 people, it was quite
remarkable. The event was adored by the attendees. The
Police, Fire, and DPW made it safe while noise makers were
sold by the Faye sisters. Fried dough was provided by the
Main Ingredient; pastries sold by the Italian Gem. And it
was all free of charge to the townsfolk!
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