Dan and Arlene Obillo and their three sons, Keith, Kirk (also called Steve) and little Ricky, lived on Elm Street in Hanson on a nice piece of property in a very nice house. Dan was from the Philippines, I’m not sure where Arlene grew up; she was a nurse at Brockton Hospital and a very attractive lady with a good sense of humor. Dan was also a furniture maker and upholsterer and made beautiful couches and chairs for their home and also a long and comfortable lobby sofa with a nice back rest to sit and relax on in his barber shop. His son Keith and I were about a year apart in age, me being a year older at age eleven. Keith will always be one of the nicest boys I knew, and a good friend. He was quiet, didn’t talk much unless he really had something to say, and we both liked listening to music. He had a nice radio, that wasn’t too big, that he carried with him and his father let us come into the barber shop many times because we behaved and were quiet. We sat on the lobby sofa that could seat quite a few customers, where Keith played the radio very low while we read comic books, drank soda, and watched customers come and go inside the barber shop.
One nice September day after school, when a few of us were playing in the Obillo’s yard, Keith’s mom was baking cakes. They smelled so good, we ended up peeking in the kitchen window and Arlene invited us in. There on her kitchen counter was a two-layer pink cake and one two layer light brown cake. She asked us if we’d like to have a piece of cake. Her three sons said yes and so did I, Larry Fest, and Preston Brine, two of the neighborhood boys. They were two of the most delicious cakes I ever tasted. When I asked what kind they were, she told us the pink frosted one was a cherry cake and the light brown frosted one was a peanut butter cake. I was amazed, I’d never heard of cherry or peanut butter cakes. All of a sudden, Larry, Preston, and I heard our whistle signals; we knew we had to go home. Arlene asked what it was all about. We told her the Hanson Police had given all the moms on our street a big, white police whistle and each one had a different signal so us kids knew when our moms wanted us. Arlene smiled and said she’d have to get one; I’m pretty sure she did.
One late Saturday afternoon in September, when several of us were in Obillo’s yard with Keith and Kirk, we found a big hole filled with water that we had never seen before. We looked at Keith and Kirk and they shrugged their shoulders as if to say they hadn’t seen it before either. To our delight, it was filled with big brownish- colored frogs. We were so excited. We carefully lifted them out of the water and set up frog races on the grass away from the hole. My sister Penny and I were the only girls there with Keith, Larry, Kirk, Preston and our cousin, Buddy. We were having the best time when Dan came out of the barber Shop, very upset and yelling at us to stay away from the water hole because it was part of a septic system that he was working on! When we heard that, we were very glad we had taken the frogs out of there. As we moved the frogs into the woods near a pond we knew about so they’d be safe for the winter, Dan was so upset he began to yell at us in Filipino; we had no idea what he was saying. Arlene stepped out into the yard calling to all of us to go home. After we took care of the frogs, we all ran for home. When Penny and I got home, our mom told us Arlene called every mother to let them know the water in the hole was not contaminated, it was new, and Dan was in the process of bringing a cover out to put over the hole when he saw us with the frogs. We all got stern lectures from our parents about being old enough to know about staying away from a water hole. All of us were grounded for a week and couldn’t go out of our yards.
In the spring of the next year on April vacation, we all were in each other’s yards. The Fest’s yard had a flat sidewalk and also an area of packed down dirt where we played marbles. That day, three of us won a game, Johnny Fest, Glen Fest, and Penny. I still have my marble collection, including the cat’s eyes. After a game of tag and dodgeball, we all got bored and went into my cousin’s yard which was next door to the Fest’s. My Ibbitson cousins were all boys. Their dad worked for Coca-Cola and he dumped a nice truckload of sand in his yard for his sons. We all helped make a village out of sand with all their Tonka trucks. I liked it because my dad was a bulldozer operator and I loved going to work with him, riding on the dozer; he made it purr like a kitten. When we were helping to make the sand village, it was inevitable that someone would mess up someone else’s work without meaning to, a fight would break out, and kids would leave. Those of us that stayed did get the job done and were proud of all the little buildings and roads we built out of sand.
It being April vacation, it seemed all our moms were busy visiting one another with all the little ones and most of us ended up at Keith and Kirk’s. On the left side of Obillo’s yard away from the house, was a spacious piece of land that bordered the woods. I started walking around, looking at the trees and went to the far end of the yard. I kept staring at the trees and looking up. Johnny was beside me and I said to him that we should be swinging from the trees. He was thin and lanky. He grinned at me, reached up to a branch, and started swinging from tree to tree, yelling and laughing. I was next, and before I knew it, all of us were swinging from tree to tree. The forest had several specific tree species which allowed us to safely glide from one to the next. When I reached for a branch that was closer to the street, I saw a familiar car go by, then I saw five more and realized all our mothers were driving around looking for us. I decided to keep on swinging for as long as I could. About five minutes later, all six cars pulled into the Obillo’s driveway and I saw all our mom’s get out of the cars and I could see that our baby brothers and sisters were in the cars. I kept swinging. I was waiting for them to all pull out their whistles but they didn’t. Three of the mom’s stayed with the cars and three walked over to the edge of the woods, waving us down. Slowly, we all came down out of the trees.
We followed the three mom’s back to the cars, expecting the worst. The worst didn’t happen. The only thing that was said was that if we ever did this again, not only would we not be allowed to come here, but it could cause serious problems for Arlene, Dan, and all of us. We all promised and we all kept that promise. However, when we got home our dad’s made things exceedingly clearer.
“Empowering Dreams, Igniting Possibilities” Endowment Campaign Reaches 67% of Goal in First Year
MARSHFIELD, MA, – Road to Responsibility (RTR; http://roadtoresponsibility.org), one of the region’s largest and most successful nonprofit organizations supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, is proud to announce its “Empowering Dreams, Igniting Possibilities” endowment campaign has received 67% of its $3 million goal in just one year since the campaign’s launch.
The growing endowment is designed to ensure the long-term sustainability of RTR’s programs, which support more than 1,000 individuals annually across 52 residential homes and nine day service locations. It will also help to sustain and strengthen the non-profit’s dedicated staff, ensure the continued operation of safe and supportive residential homes, and expand opportunities for independence and community engagement for the individuals served by RTR.
RTR recently highlighted this momentum during a gathering at Tosca in Hingham, where members of the Board of Directors, donors, and community partners came together to hear updates on the organization’s impact, advocacy efforts, and visions for the future. The event underscored the growing support behind the endowment campaign and a shared commitment to strengthening opportunities for the individuals RTR proudly serves. Among those attending the event were State Representative Joan Meschino, Elena Kirkiles of Starkweather Shepley, Joe White of Quincy Mutual, Jim Dunphy and Steve DiPrete of South Shore Bank, Bob Shepard of Shepard Construction, and Ryan LaVangie and Saul Scrader of Acella Construction.
“This campaign is about ensuring that the individuals we support have the resources they need not just today, but for decades to come,” said Christopher T. White, Ed.D., president and CEO of Road to Responsibility. “We are grateful for the generosity that has brought us closer to meeting our goal in such a short space of time; it inspires us and fuels our resolve to expand opportunities for those who depend on us.”
Those interested in making a donation, getting involved, or learning more about the “Empowering Dreams, Igniting Possibilities” endowment campaign, please contact Erin Cohen at echohen@rtrinc.org or 617-347-4524.
Every contribution makes a meaningful difference, helping RTR sustain the high-quality programs that individuals and families rely on for stability, growth, and support.
7th Annual Arts & Crafts Festival at the Plymouth Public Library
Mark your calendars! The paint is out, the LEGO bricks are ready, and the lawn is calling! Join us Saturday, Aug. 8 & Sunday, Aug. 9, 2026, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. on the beautiful Plymouth Public Library Lawn, 132 South St., Plymouth, MA.
This is one of the most beloved festivals of the summer, and for good reason! Wander through row after row of stunning artwork from talented New England artists, refuel at our delicious food offerings, relax in our shaded chill-out zones, and let the kids loose on activities galore. Add in live art demonstrations, toe-tapping musical entertainment, a fiercely competitive LEGO Contest, and a brand-new Community Art Project, and you’ve got a weekend you won’t want to miss!
Meet Our Artists
Sixty incredible artists will fill the lawn with original, handcrafted treasures: canvas art, sculpture, woodwork, glass, fabric art, pottery, fashion, jewelry, and metalwork. (Psst!!! A few artist spots are still up for grabs!) And here’s the best part: every single artist donates a piece to our super-sized game of chance. Chances go on sale during the Festival, with all the goodies on display on the veranda!
NEW! Community Art Project
Ever wanted to channel your inner Degas? Here’s your shot! Led by local artist Kendra D’Angora, grab a brush, marker, piece of chalk, or whatever medium speaks to you and add your mark to a one-of-a-kind community masterpiece. The finished piece will even land a spot in the Library’s Gallery this winter, talk about bragging rights!
Master LEGO Builder Exhibit
Prepare to have your mind blown by jaw-dropping custom LEGO creations, built brick by brick before the big weekend and proudly displayed for all to admire. Awards will be handed out to top builders across several categories. May the best builder win!
Youth Artist Section
Got a budding artist at home? The PPLF and our generous sponsors offer scholarship spots for students in grades 5–12 to display and sell their own handmade art on Saturday or Sunday. A little confidence, a little glitter, a lot of talent…future Picassos, this one’s for you.
Children’s Activities
Face painting! Glittery hair extensions! Take-home art projects! Games galore! Our little visitors get a whole corner of the Festival dedicated just to them
Gently Used & Vintage Book and Art Sale
Step inside the Library for a treasure hunt of hundreds of gently used and vintage books, plus a brand-new twist this year, art for sale too! Some pieces await you in the Library’s Otto Fehlow Room, while others go up for grabs in a Silent Auction on the front veranda. Bookworms and art lovers, this is your happy place.
Want to learn more or grab one of the last artist spots? Contact Bill Petrillo, Plymouth Public Library Foundation 132 South St, Plymouth, MA 02360
bill.petrillo@comcast.net (774) 766-7689
This event is proudly funded in part by the Town of Plymouth Promotions Fund, the Plymouth Cultural Council, and the Massachusetts Cultural Council. Special thanks to our event sponsor, Plymouth Orthodontics, and our generous supporting sponsors: BEALUQEN Enterprises, Charles Schwab, Home Depot, Plymouth Bay Orthopedics, Plymouth Ear, Nose & Throat, St. Anne’s Credit Union, and Tiny & Sons Glass Co. Plymouth Public Library Foundation (508) 830-4250 www.pplfdn.org
LaNatra Secures $1.15M in Local Economic Development Funds
BOSTON – Friday, July 10, 2026 – Today, Representative LaNatra announced that she secured $1.15 million in local bond authorizations to support local economic development, local downtowns and Main Streets, seniors and cultural education programs.
The funding comes from a $561 million bond bill passed by the Massachusetts House of Representatives that strengthens key innovation sectors, supports small businesses, expands housing opportunities, and positions the Commonwealth for long-term economic growth and competitiveness. The legislation makes targeted updates across dozens of state programs to improve efficiency, encourage investment, reduce barriers to economic development, and better prepare Massachusetts for emerging industries and workforce needs.
“This legislation makes targeted investments into what makes Massachusetts strong today, the industries that will drive our economy tomorrow, and the people and communities that make our Commonwealth thrive,” said Chair of the House Committee on Federal Funding, Policy and Accountability, Kathy LaNatra (D–Kingston). “By increasing housing production, investing in our downtowns and Main Streets, supporting small businesses, and fostering innovation, Massachusetts is making strategic investments that will strengthen our economy for generations to come. I was proud to secure more than $1 million for the 12th Plymouth District within this landmark legislation. Thank you to Speaker Mariano and Chairs Michlewitz, Fiola, and Finn for their leadership on this important bill and for their continued investment in the residents I am honored to serve.”
Rep. LaNatra secured $1.15 million in both local, as well as statewide, bond authorizations that will improve the 12th Plymouth and strengthen resources available to businesses and nonprofits across the Commonwealth through the following five amendments:
• $200,000 for the Plymouth Philharmonic Orchestra to support youth programs
• $200,000 for the Town of Kingston downtown revitalization projects
• $250,000 for the Town of Plympton downtown and municipal complex revitalization projects
• $250,000 for the Town of Halifax Senior Center improvements and COA programs
• $300,000 for MassEcon to support marketing resources for municipalities and nonprofits
Among the bills most significant provisions are:
• Addresses the state’s housing crisis by creating new tools to encourage housing production and adaptive reuse. The legislation authorizes municipalities to adopt commercial conversion zoning to transform underutilized commercial properties into housing and mixed-use developments through streamlined local approvals. It also establishes the “Yes in God’s Backyard” (YIGBY) framework, allowing multifamily housing as of right on qualifying land (maximum 4 acres) owned by religious institutions, except for land zoned for or used as a school, including institutions of higher education. A minimum 20 percent of the units must be affordable units. The bill also improves local planning and permitting by standardizing site plan review procedures and establishing training requirements for local land use boards to promote greater consistency and predictability in municipal decision-making.
• Empowers tenants and strengthens fair housing protections by creating a local option allowing municipalities to adopt a tenant right of first refusal for the sale of multifamily residential properties, giving tenants the opportunity to purchase their building after receiving notice of the owner’s intent to sell. The bill also strengthens fair housing protections and oversight of the real estate profession by expanding the composition and responsibilities of the Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salesmen.
• Strengthens the Commonwealth’s fiscal resilience by authorizing the Commonwealth Federal Matching, Fiscal Resilience and Debt Reduction Fund to help protect Massachusetts from reductions or delays in federal funding, support hospitals and community health centers serving vulnerable populations, provide pay-as-you-go capital funding for critical infrastructure projects, and establish a $200 million bridge funding reserve for public and private nonprofit colleges and universities facing uncertainty in federal research funding.
• Reduces the cost of starting a business by lowering the filing fee for a new limited liability company (LLC) from $500 to $100, making it more affordable for entrepreneurs to launch new businesses. The legislation also establishes a graduated annual reporting fee structure for most LLCs while maintaining higher filing fees for entities holding significant real estate assets, ensuring relief is targeted toward operating businesses and startups.
• Creates Massachusetts’ first comprehensive framework for micromobility devices by establishing safety standards and operational rules for personal transportation devices such as motorized bicycles. The bill classifies micromobility devices based on speed, establishes equipment and helmet requirements, sets a minimum operating age of 16 for powered micromobility devices, and defines where these devices may be used. It also authorizes registration and regulatory oversight, strengthens safety standards for lithium-ion batteries, and creates a working group to recommend additional long-term policies as the micromobility industry continues to evolve.
• Attracts the film, television and digital game development industry to Massachusetts by extending the period during which taxpayers may claim the Massachusetts film tax credit from 12 months to 24 months, and by creating a tax credit program to encourage digital game development in Massachusetts.
The bill includes $561 million in capital authorizations, such as:
• $100 million to strengthen the Commonwealth’s defense leadership and accelerate the development of cutting-edge national security solutions, also known as the SHIELD initiative.
• $75 million to support AI tools, infrastructure, and emerging technologies, and position Massachusetts as a national leader in AI and innovation.
• $50 million for municipal grants and technical assistance for the conversion of commercial properties into residential housing.
• $50 million for grants to support remediation efforts at former state-owned buildings.
• $25 million to support the expansion of a key capital program that helps businesses build or expand commercial, industrial, and manufacturing facilities.
• $25 million to support MassTech’s robotics initiative, helping advance R&D and move new technologies from the lab into real-world use.
• $25 million to support downtown revitalization through capital funding for infrastructure, public spaces, and placemaking projects that attract residents, businesses, and jobs.
• $25 million for capital grants to strengthen arts, culture, and the creative economy through investments in public spaces, historic districts, wayfinding, performance venues, and public art.
• $20 million in capital funding to invest in sites designed to attract international companies to Massachusetts.
• $20 million for the veterans supported housing initiative program.
• $10 million for capital grants that support food science, strengthen sustainable food systems, and help grow AgTech businesses.
Having passed the House of Representatives 148-2, the bill now goes to the Senate for consideration.
Court finds in Plympton’s favor
Deb Anderson
Express contributor
The Town of Plympton has prevailed in defending its implementation of the Five-Acre Rule, requiring new construction in Plympton to use a mounded septic system on a lot of at least five acres.
The Plymouth County Superior Court, in Civil Action 2283CV00462, in a Memorandum dated June 30, 2026, found in favor of the Town of Plympton, upholding the Five-Acre Rule.
The suit was brought against the Town by Henry J. O’Hearn, III, concerning a 2.14 acre parcel of land at 10 Mayflower Road, Plympton. Development of the land requires an on-site septic system and an on-site well. The property, currently undeveloped, has no approved septic system, and lacks access to municipal water or sewer service.
According to the ruling from the Court, O’Hearn wishes to construct a single-family dwelling on the property. On Dec. 5, 2020, he applied for a permit to install an on-site system designed to handle 564 gallons of water a day, enough for a five-bedroom home. His application was denied by the Plympton Board of Health on January 14, 2021, and this case followed, challenging the Five-Acre Rule.
Both plaintiff and defendant called expert witnesses. O’Hearn relied on the testimony of Robert F. Silva, who testified that discharges from septic systems pose a major environmental concern and health risk to drinking water wells. Silva told the Court that it is reasonable to regulate on-site septic systems to achieve the MassDEP recommended five milligrams per liter.
Plympton’s expert witness, Scott Horsley, a hydrologist, explained the importance of the recharge area. Horsley explained that, because on-site septic systems contribute nitrogen and other pollutants to ground water, the recharge will dilute their concentrations by adding more clean water to the area.
Silva, in his testimony, acknowledged that a larger land area leads to higher volume of recharge as compared to the pollutants entering the system, leading to greater dilution of water containing septic system discharge.
By considering published data from the United States Geological Survey, Horsley estimated the recharge rate would require at least 4.6 acres of land to sufficiently dilute nitrogen from a septic system so that the groundwater does not exceed a nitrogen concentration of five milligrams per liter, a concentration.
O’Hearn asserted that Plympton is arbitrarily using the Five-Acre Rule to impose an impermissible limit of growth in the Town.
The Court found that the plaintiff, O’Hearn, did not meet the burden of proving that the regulation is “illegal, arbitrary, or capricious”, nor did he submit credible evidence to prove the Title 5 Regulation has anything to do with public health and safety.”
The Court noted that the stated purpose of the five-acre rule is “to protect, preserve, and maintain the existing and potential groundwater supply and recharge areas of the town, and to promote the health, safety, and general welfare of the community by establishing limitation on the installation of, or updates that increase capacity of, on-site septic systems in certain areas with high groundwater elevations…action must be taken to protect the Town’s environmental resources and drinking water supply.”
Declaration Delivery Day in Plympton
On Tuesday, June 30, State Representative, Kathy LaNatra, presented a special reproduction of the Declaration of Independence to Plympton town administrators. Revolution 250, an organization established in 2016, is an independent 501c3 and the leader of a consortium of not-for-profit, for-profit, corporate partners, and individuals. Revolution 250 explores the history of the American Revolution and how its impact continues to affect modern day America. Culminating in 2026, 250 years since the American colonies declared independence from the British Empire, Revolution 250 pulls together residents, visitors, planners, educators, artists, students, the business community, and politicians to recognize the importance of American culture and values.
Executive Director Jonathan Lane announced that the final hand-printed copies of the Declaration of Independence had been delivered to the Massachusetts State House for distribution as part of their capstone America 250 project, “Declaration Delivery Day.” On June 29, Revolution 250 handed off the last copies of the Declaration to state legislators, who distributed the documents to the communities they represent.
As part of the Declaration Delivery Day project, the newly printed reproductions are to be distributed to all 351 Massachusetts towns and cities by July 4 -echoing the original journey of the Declaration as copies were sent to towns throughout the Commonwealth 250 years ago.
Historian and printer Gary Gregory, was hired by Revolution 250 to print hundreds of copies of the Declaration at the Museum of Printing in Haverhill, using 18th-century techniques to recreate a labor-intensive process similar to that used in 1776. Dozens of copies have been delivered throughout the state, and these deliveries will continue until the end of the week until all 351 have been delivered. For Revolution 250, the ambitious project is the final culmination of 10 years of planning, educating, content creating, collaborating and celebrating America 250.
Revolution 250 has hosted dozens of events and partnered with historians, historical organizations and state and federal officials to commemorate events significant to the American Revolution. “Passing off our final copies of the Declaration at the State House was one of Revolution 250’s proudest moments,” said Executive Director Jonathan Lane. “Declaration Delivery Day is one of Revolution 250’s final and most impactful commemorative events for the nation’s semi-quincentennial anniversary, and it has been an honor to pay homage to American history in this way. This project has been a massive undertaking and collaborative effort between multiple groups, and we are extremely grateful to all who have assisted us, including Secretary William Galvin. We wish to thank everyone who has supported Declaration Delivery Day and helped bring history to every community in Massachusetts.”
The Arc of the South Shore to Host 13th Annual Summer Soirée
WEYMOUTH, MA, Media representatives are invited to attend The Arc of the South Shore’s 13th Annual Summer Soirée, which will celebrate the organization’s 75th anniversary, and include a very special fashion show featuring local retailers and members of The Arc’s community. The Soirée takes place on Thursday, June 18, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Webb Memorial State Park, 371 River St., North Weymouth, MA.
The much-anticipated event will celebrate the individuals and families that The Arc has supported over the past three-quarters of a century, as well as demonstrate inclusion in action and instill feelings of confidence and joy in all who participate.
The Soirée will also foster community camaraderie, as the event brings together members of the public, local businesses, community leaders, restaurants, and spirits providers for a festive evening.
Proceeds from the Soirée will assist The Arc in delivering programs and engaging opportunities to improve the health, safety, and independence of the nearly 5,000 individuals and families the non-profit serves annually.
Event Details:
Thursday, June 18
6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Webb Memorial State Park
371 River Street
Weymouth, MA 02191
For additional information or to register, please contact Nicole Hales at nhales@prfirst.com or 617-947-7983, or visit The Arc of the South Shore – 13th Annual Summer Soirée.
Plight of Immigrants, Refugees Recognized in June
June is National Immigrant Heritage Month, and Saturday, June 20 is World Refugee Day. As Bearing Witness @ ICE in Burlington holds its 61st consecutive week of standouts, we continue to honor all immigrants who live in Massachusetts and the country at large.
Jeff Thielman, Bearing Witness guest speaker at the standout on Wednesday, June 17, 2026 and an Arlington resident, knows a thing or two about immigrants and the issues they face. Thielman is president and CEO of the International Institute of New England (IINE), and will speak to the resilience of refugees, especially in this political climate, and how much they have helped shape our state and country.
According to the IINE website, Thielman’s organization creates “…opportunities for refugees and immigrants to succeed through resettlement, education, career advancement and pathways to citizenship. Over the past three years, the number of refugees and immigrants that take part in our family reunification, education, skills training, job placement, and legal services programs offered in Boston and Lowell, Massachusetts, and Manchester, New Hampshire has more than doubled.”
National Immigrant Heritage Month was first recognized in June 2014 by the I Stand With Immigrants/I Am An Immigrant campaign funded by the FW.us Education Fund.
World Refugee Day launched in June 2001 as an initiative of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (aka the UN Refugee Agency).
The speaking portion of Bearing Witness @ ICE Burlington runs from approximately 11:30 a.m. to noon.
The weekly Bearing Witness @ ICE Burlington standout schedule is as follows (schedules are subject to change without notice):
● The standouts, which include crowds of people of all ages who hold signs in support of immigrants, take place every Wednesday, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the ICE field office at 1000 District Ave. in Burlington, MA.
● The guest speaker(s) portion of the program runs from approximately 11:30 a.m. to noon. ● From noon-12:30 p.m., the loudspeakers are turned toward the ICE building and those gathered are offered a chance to step up to the mic and read amendments to the U.S. Constitution.
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● At approximately 12:30 p.m., those gathered hold signs and march along District Avenue to the intersection of Mall Rd., the main thoroughfare leading to nearby Burlington Mall. The large visible procession alerts motorists and other passersby about abuses taking place daily at ICE in Burlington, in an otherwise nondescript building in an office park near shops and restaurants.
Bearing Witness @ ICE Burlington was started by one couple in April 2025 and has grown weekly to a record 930 at a recent standout. Those gathered stand outside the ICE field office, where immigrants have been detained illegally, to express their shame and outrage at egregious, illegal, and cruel ICE behavior. They bear witness to the lack of due process afforded immigrants and the unconstitutional actions of the U.S. government.
Learn more about Bearing Witness @ ICE Burlington and upcoming events at BearingWitnessNE.org.
A Tribute to Penny
My sister Penny was my first sibling and the second child my parents had. She was named Lucia Straight Ibbitson. Lucia was pronounced: Lewsha. Straight was my grandmother Edrice’s maiden name. Our dad adored his grandfather and wanted the Straight name in our family. The rest of us kids were really glad we didn’t get it. Our mom came up with the nickname Penny and that’s what stuck, thank goodness.
Off and on throughout her life, Penny had premonitions, some very unsettling. When she was going to have her first daughter, she told me I would raise her, and when she was going to have her second daughter, she told me our mom and dad would raise her. Another time, she was going to enter a prestigious event with her horse and our parents told her to wait. She told them it would be too late if she waited, she’d never have another chance. All of these things came true; my parents and I did take in Pauline and Roberta, her daughters. She got married when she was 19. Her husband eventually walked out on them, and she sold her horse to a woman who took excellent care of her. Penny passed away at age 35 of Juvenile Leukemia. My sister Barb, our brother Dave, his wife, our sister-in-law Laura who Barb and I think of as our sister, all miss her. Her daughters live out of state with their families and they miss her too. This prompts me to share this story about Penny as a tribute to her, someone I admired and am so glad she lived her life determined to make her dreams come true. She truly had a gift with horses, a remarkable horsewoman, a hard worker and a loving sister.
From a very early age, Penny showed a love for horses. Our grandpa Spud, who was our dad’s father, lived next door to us and had a gray horse named Harry. He was a big, tall, solidly built retired work horse who was very gentle. He was still strong and could carry four of us kids on his back at the same time. When Gramp gave rides, whether there were four of us riding at once, or less, he secured a lead rope around Harry’s neck and held it as we rode him slowly around the spacious yard and field. Harry took to Penny right away, was always happy to see her, and the only one of us kids that he let brush him after the rides. He did seem to like the pats and hugs he got from the rest of us kids. I heard gramp tell mom and dad that Penny was a natural and one day would be an excellent horsewoman.
As Penny grew up, everything centered around animals, especially horses. She joined a 4- H Group in Hanson and also started saving money for a horse. One day, a big glass jug appeared in our dining room. Mom announced it was a pony bank; she and dad were helping Penny save for a horse. Whenever any of our grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, even friends, came over, the money grew. A few years later, after endless searching for the right horse at an affordable price, mom and dad were contacted by friends of theirs in Hanson who knew of a mare for sale. Mom and dad didn’t tell Penny or any of us. Penny turned 12 that year on her birthday, which was on June 12. Mom planned an outdoor party with family around the big picnic table in our back yard because of the nice weather. After the birthday feast, it was time for gifts. I noticed mom and dad disappeared. I saw a few of my uncles and aunts get out their cameras while Penny opened her gifts. Uncle John walked up behind Penny as she sat on the picnic table bench and I saw him point in the direction of Gramp’s driveway and ask her in a low voice if she saw anything. She seemed puzzled and so did us kids. We all looked towards where he was pointing and saw mom and dad walking a horse into the backyard. All at once, all the adults were singing happy birthday to Penny. She burst into tears and ran towards mom and dad and the horse. She hugged the horse, whose name was Lady and then threw her arms around mom and dad. My brother Dave and I and our little sister Barb were excited and happy for Penny.
Lady was the perfect horse for Penny at that time, and she could still run at a good gallop. Dad fixed up an old shed which was the perfect size for Lady, making it into a small barn with a nice stall. He painted it cottage red with white trim that matched our house. It was big enough to hold all the tack needed for a horse. Penny had Lady for a few years until she became too old to ride. Not wanting to part with her, she didn’t know what to do. Friends of hers that lived in Hanson had a retirement farm for older horses and offered to take Lady free of charge if Penny would work for them at least once a week without wages. Penny happily accepted the offer so she could spend time with Lady.
Penny’s dream was to have an Arabian horse. She started babysitting to earn money and and also took jobs helping with, and taking care of, animals. As her reputation grew, so did her savings. She was well liked and respected, took her jobs seriously, and without meaning to, got the attention of some important people who realized how serious she was about attaining her goal. She won prizes at several horse shows with a pretty little filly named Misty she bought from a friend of our family.
At one of the horse shows, an older couple from Georgetown noticed Penny’s horse, Misty, and approached her. They had a stallion they wanted to breed who was part Arabian. When the experienced breeders got together with Penny, both horses, and our parents, the end result was that the stallion and Misty complimented each other in every way, especially the structural correctness between the two which was physically balanced. The foal would inherit the correct athletic build and be in perfect proportion. Penny was thrilled, but worried about the cost. The couple told her and our parents there would be no charge, she was doing them a favor and would get to keep the foal. Dad asked if there would be a contract regarding future expenses and what would happen if Penny gave the horse away or sold it. The couple smiled at them, asking them to please let them do this, there were no strings attached; they’d been in this business for most of their adult lives and every once in a while a young person came along, like Penny, and they wanted to do everything they could to help and were in a position to do so. It was a miracle to Penny, dad was stunned beyond words and mom cried. Arrangements were made for breeding, which was a success and Misty came home to Hanson and the barn dad had made, where we all waited anxiously for the next eleven months to pass.
Penny was still in high school when Misty was in-foal. On a beautiful spring day, my three-year-old son, Brian and I, went to visit my mom. When I pulled into the driveway, mom was out in front of the little barn and the door was open. She seemed upset and I asked her if everything was okay. She told me Misty was in labor and would I go to the high school and get Penny and she’d keep Brian with her. Penny’s teachers knew about her horse and were very understanding. When I ran into the school that day to get Penny, there was no problem; Leo Lane, the Administrative Assistant, got on the intercom and called her to the front office and wished her good luck as we ran out the door. When we got back to mom’s, she had called a man who was also a friend of hers and Penny’s, who was an experienced equine assistant. Misty did well and delivered a beautiful foal. Penny named her Serendipity and called her Seran for short. It was a wonderful Summer that year watching Misty with her foal as she grew. Seran was stunning. Even though she was only part Arabian, she was dark with a shimmering coat, fine, silky hair, and a tail that was like a banner in the wind; she carried her tail highly arched and elegantly curved.
Penny had graduated from high school and was doing quite well at competitions she entered with Seran. They were making a name for themselves and were also asked to ride in the Memorial Day and Fourth of July Parades. Penny was happy and continued to gain confidence in a quiet, self-assured way, trusting her own abilities while still being respectful of others. She also began thinking about entering the Eastern States Exposition, home of the BIG E Fair in West Springfield Massachusetts. My parents tried to talk her out of it but she stood her ground, telling them this would be her only chance to go and win a Blue Ribbon. She also reminded them she had money saved for it and it wouldn’t cost them anything. Penny went to Eastern States. The competition was fierce but Penny never wavered, she was quiet, calm, focused and had an aura about her. Seran was just as calm. When the riders rode their Half-Arabian horses into the Arena, everyone was applauding. When spectators caught site of Penny riding Seran among them, the applause and cheering were deafening.
Serendipity and Penny were famous that day and won the blue ribbon. We were all thrilled. Her youngest daughter has Penny’s trunk full of horse pictures and memorabilia. The picture of Penny with this story is of her on a horse named Mike that my mom and sister Barb had for a while. Penny was trying to break him, but he had issues, was too high-strung and was given to someone who knew how to handle him. One of the last things Penny said to me was, make your dreams come true. She was an excellent power of example which has stayed with me and helped me make many of mine come true.
Haymakers for Hope’s 13th Annual Belle of the Brawl Returns to Boston
Boston, MA – Haymakers for Hope (H4H) the nonprofit organization that empowers everyday women to train, compete, and raise funds for cancer research, is officially accepting applications for its 13th annual ‘Belles of the Brawl’ boxing charity event, taking place Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026, at the MGM Music Hall in Fenway. Applications are now open through June 1, 2026, inviting female Boston-area residents to step into the ring, challenge themselves, and make a lasting impact in the fight against cancer.
Now entering its thirteenth year, “Belles of the Brawl” continues to empower everyday women across Greater Boston in support of Haymakers for Hope’s mission through charitable boxing events with everyday people. Participants will spend four months training with local boxing gyms and coaches, ultimately competing in sanctioned amateur bouts while raising critical funds and awareness for cancer research, survivorship, care, and support.
Since its initial event in 2011, Haymakers for Hope has raised more than $42 million for cancer research, awareness, survivorship, and care. The organization has transformed more than 1,500 ordinary participants into extraordinary amateur fighters. Last year’s Belles of the Brawl participants raised more than $231,000 in support of the organization’s mission, contributing to another record-breaking year for the Boston-based nonprofit.
Hosted once again at MGM Music Hall at Fenway, the event has become one of Boston’s most inspiring and anticipated annual charity sporting events, bringing together participants, survivors, supporters, and spectators for an unforgettable evening centered around resilience, empowerment, and community impact.
“Every year, Belles of the Brawl introduces us to an incredible group of women willing to challenge themselves physically and mentally for a cause that touches so many lives,” said Founder, Julie Anne Kelly. “The dedication, camaraderie, and passion that comes out of this process is truly remarkable, and we’re excited to welcome the next class of fighters for 2026.”
Each participant will be matched with a USA Boxing registered gym and trainer for a four-month training program that combines intensive boxing workouts with structured fundraising. Participants not only learn the sport but also join a powerful community fighting for something bigger than themselves.
Orientation/training for the boxers will start in the middle of June, with tickets being on sale beginning on August 11, 2026. To learn more information about where to register and participate please visit the website. Sponsorship opportunities are also currently available.
About Haymakers for Hope:
Haymakers for Hope is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to raising money and awareness for cancer research, care, and survivorship through organized charitable boxing events. Founded in 2010, Haymakers for Hope, has helped raise nearly $42 million to knock out cancer. For more information, visit the Website, friend us on Facebook, and follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn.
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