[{"_1":2,"_111":-5,"_112":-5},"loaderData",{"_3":4,"_26":27},"root",{"_5":6,"_17":10,"_18":19,"_20":21,"_22":10,"_23":-5,"_24":-5,"_25":10},"user",{"_7":8,"_9":10,"_11":10,"_12":-5,"_13":-5,"_14":15,"_16":-5},"roles",[],"isAuthenticated",false,"isPremium","planName","subscriptionStatus","featureFlags",{},"insightsBudget","isDevelopmentHost","userPreferences",{},"recaptchaSiteKey","6LcvOJcUAAAAAHsB-gPGfGktcRlKpH7OTIU_dMTD","isImpersonating","impersonation","affiliateStatus","isFreedomPortal","routes/v2/article/layout",{"_28":29,"_30":31},"notFound",true,"relatedArticles",[32,75,87,99],{"_33":34,"_35":36,"_37":38,"_39":40,"_41":42,"_43":44,"_45":46,"_47":48,"_49":50,"_51":52,"_53":54,"_55":56,"_57":58,"_59":60,"_61":62,"_63":64,"_65":66,"_67":68,"_69":70,"_71":68,"_72":73,"_74":73},"mediaId",2178449,"mediaKeyId","2172705-3a4a6a98cf3614c9e1b9ae9729536039","parentId",2172705,"title","Charlton Senior Center unveils Rainbow Cafe for LGBTQIA community gatherings","audioSeconds",761,"startMs",5875290,"endMs",6636920,"viewUrl","/Search/View?dp=1&key=2172705-3a4a6a98cf3614c9e1b9ae9729536039&start=5875&end=6636","thumbnailUrl","https://assets.pipeline.soar.com/2172705-3a4a6a98cf3614c9e1b9ae9729536039/thumbnail_5875290.jpg","articleUrl","/articles/2178449/Town-of-Charlton/Worcester-County/Massachusetts/Charlton-Senior-Center-unveils-Rainbow-Cafe-for-LGBTQIA-community-gatherings","mediaUrl","https://secure.pipeline.soar.com/2178449-8387f117e726fa3c1a7659fbc9dfb3b1/orig.mp4?Expires=1771158877&Signature=aXY1xNQYL2z~LA34vlNbpjQ0KePYsm~wt~29ar~HyZAxQkVEH-QdTgch7HvIXzX8HJzm7b9MCpJHG0p1bps4UDCSTL8pM4FjZ7s8R6zNzjmogSNfQ2Bze5YO6KHISwlF94RupgKOPxQKEBdM0TmUKvRfsXsNqAWyDCqZNl1yDz6WD9oXnCppb9DFDC95OY8CmAzCh0xjrJF89~ZMQ-ycq64HqJCEvjyT7mrXAx48Eleqa-~1cVYTvTVLkNG44yenzRNdexyCF23UdjHqahqAFsMRmL16aDESZ0Fasw1JAw6xmq90f~a5m5JITwqXR~ZRIdDkMKG73axK5-LzujCLow__&Key-Pair-Id=KUT5TJCACFTXG","author","Town of Charlton, MA","date","2025-01-01T00:00:00Z","article","The Board of Selectmen in Charlton, Worcester County, convened on January 1, 2025, to discuss several key community initiatives and administrative matters that reflect the town's ongoing commitment to inclusivity and local governance.

One of the most notable announcements was the introduction of the Rainbow Cafe at the Charlton Senior Center, aimed at providing a safe gathering space for the LGBTQIA community. Scheduled for the second Tuesday of each month at 4 PM, this initiative highlights the town's efforts to foster inclusivity and support for diverse community members. Residents from neighboring communities are also encouraged to participate, signaling a broader outreach and acceptance.

In addition to community engagement efforts, the Board addressed the renewal of various licenses for 2025. The building, fire, and police departments conducted inspections of liquor license establishments, all of which received approval. Notably, TreeHouse requested an extension of their operating hours until 11 PM and to remain open until 1 AM on New Year's Eve. The Board unanimously approved the license renewals en masse, streamlining the process for the 89 establishments involved.

The meeting also touched on the scheduling of future sessions, with the next regular meeting set for January 14, 2025, after the Board decided to forgo a meeting on Christmas Eve. This decision reflects the Board's sensitivity to community traditions and holiday observances.

Another significant topic was an open meeting law complaint filed by the Trump Permanent Fire Fighters Local 4023. The Board agreed to refer the matter to the town administrator and legal counsel for a thorough response, ensuring compliance with legal protocols while addressing the concerns raised.

In educational updates, representatives from local schools reported on various activities, including winter sports and community events aimed at fostering school spirit and engagement. The Shepherd Hill Rams are gearing up for a busy sports season, while Bay Path's initiatives, such as a phone-free school policy, aim to enhance the learning environment.

As the meeting concluded, the Board emphasized the importance of community involvement and the upcoming budget discussions for fiscal year 2026, encouraging residents to consider their priorities for the town's future.

Overall, the meeting underscored Charlton's commitment to inclusivity, community engagement, and responsible governance, setting a positive tone for the year ahead.
","mediaType","Video","parentTitle","Town of Charlton: Board of Selectmen","oneSentenceSummary","Charlton introduces monthly Rainbow Cafe for LGBTQIA residents at the Senior Center.","taxTitle","Town of Charlton, Worcester County, Massachusetts","taxId",54464,"location","headline","","shortSummary",{"_33":76,"_35":36,"_37":38,"_39":77,"_41":78,"_43":79,"_45":80,"_47":81,"_49":82,"_51":83,"_53":84,"_55":56,"_57":58,"_59":85,"_61":62,"_63":64,"_65":86,"_67":68,"_69":70,"_71":68,"_72":73,"_74":73},2178448,"Fire Chief prioritizes firefighter wellbeing after friend is victim in vehicle accident",113,1951755,2065415,"/Search/View?dp=1&key=2172705-3a4a6a98cf3614c9e1b9ae9729536039&start=1951&end=2065","https://assets.pipeline.soar.com/2172705-3a4a6a98cf3614c9e1b9ae9729536039/thumbnail_1951755.jpg","/articles/2178448/Town-of-Charlton/Worcester-County/Massachusetts/Fire-Chief-prioritizes-firefighter-wellbeing-after-friend-is-victim-in-vehicle-accident","https://secure.pipeline.soar.com/2178448-07eb8ad98556874c7caba5a7ad71afff/orig.mp4?Expires=1771158877&Signature=cRtTKeraIYqhG87wjU76vVZXuUg0Ce59nifVNaGOkjz2C8klbEC9-r10dJqc2c50ywb8L0J-pS74hECzUTuyTlGVz48VZscO1HaPMVy9yEqjcC5aXTaC4c5WSAB~a75ekOx-co-idr1gzXi~VR1ZFRCA2kmWeBifl0yJ~NtjgzRA2S2QQm85QaKSEFcNDO0LlYc~WlzodlBsdCyanynK6H5UTm4m85VN9kg6c8ZDX6Z5a58BrDGRtwuK0tGsZy5f4opncO7SkJEnAJRMaP7wKjc0AJ5HD-IQgyOFX9hsfzgrC01VU~9~LEfnVZ0hnbWy~NR5CCTMd8e0tWztiERYhw__&Key-Pair-Id=KUT5TJCACFTXG","During a recent discussion, the chief of the Charlton Fire Department emphasized the critical importance of supporting firefighters who respond to traumatic incidents involving loved ones. When a firefighter encounters a close friend as a victim at a motor vehicle accident scene, immediate action is necessary to protect their emotional well-being.

The chief stated that the firefighter should be removed from the incident right away. \"It puts the individual in greater jeopardy,\" he explained, highlighting the emotional strain that can arise from such personal connections. He noted that it is not fair to expect a firefighter to manage the care of someone they know intimately, as it places them at a significant disadvantage.

In addition to immediate removal from the scene, the chief stressed the importance of follow-up conversations with the affected firefighter. \"It's important to make sure that they are okay and that they understand there are services available to them,\" he said. Building trust within the team is essential, as it encourages open dialogue about mental health and emotional support.

The chief reassured that the department is committed to the well-being of its personnel, offering flexibility for those who may need time off to process the incident. \"We'll make sure that they're okay in order for them to be able to return to the job,\" he affirmed, underscoring the department's dedication to both the mental health of its firefighters and the safety of the community they serve.
","Fire Chief removes firefighter from scene to ensure emotional health and support available.",{"_33":88,"_35":36,"_37":38,"_39":89,"_41":90,"_43":91,"_45":92,"_47":93,"_49":94,"_51":95,"_53":96,"_55":56,"_57":58,"_59":97,"_61":62,"_63":64,"_65":98,"_67":68,"_69":70,"_71":68,"_72":73,"_74":73},2178445,"Veteran EMT reflects on 25 years of community service and patient care challenges",89,3501829,3591720,"/Search/View?dp=1&key=2172705-3a4a6a98cf3614c9e1b9ae9729536039&start=3501&end=3591","https://assets.pipeline.soar.com/2172705-3a4a6a98cf3614c9e1b9ae9729536039/thumbnail_3501829.jpg","/articles/2178445/Town-of-Charlton/Worcester-County/Massachusetts/Veteran-EMT-reflects-on-25-years-of-community-service-and-patient-care-challenges","https://secure.pipeline.soar.com/2178445-872656deeb836b70bc0fe5b7d2db8dba/orig.mp4?Expires=1771158877&Signature=JHVbA8XosvwxK~T3-IQZVE0vVSoW5wIUqzS11tUOgN6x3LPEHOBgwOb4dKFinlWIbrZTzfPMhJc~DU5UuBKsOgHeEP~R9XXWe1rq-cYkt2DfSNPjeUbAcsQMV2APyfv5Ih29T5AaSyAHFWNfJmpgAX5r-vFD6NW3wo8GenXxK-hlS2qw1IqBIbASE~Ti36AgucR17v14Ylk98mlYpvaVa70eCAaiT11HVylPQIqrpvxuut7I~Je3yCq7aN-1OM11l6CdWCPmHULU5lVf2l~BxH-yBPkvPJ1j4VKAdGaUjM5DteFHHrv6YK-EY6Nr~39pLgYSvei5GT-vzZmlCLwcAA__&Key-Pair-Id=KUT5TJCACFTXG","The Board of Selectmen meeting in Charlton, Worcester County, Massachusetts, on January 1, 2025, featured a discussion centered on the experiences and insights of a long-serving Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). The EMT, who has dedicated 25 years to serving the community, expressed a deep passion for the role and highlighted the importance of collaboration with paramedic-level professionals to enhance patient care.

During the meeting, the EMT reflected on both positive and negative experiences encountered throughout their career. They emphasized the value of learning from all interactions, noting that even those with less effective bedside manners provided lessons that could inform future practices. The EMT underscored the necessity of adhering to state protocols and the expectations set by management to ensure the highest standard of care for patients.

In closing remarks, the EMT expressed gratitude to the Board for their consideration and time, reiterating their commitment to serving the community effectively. The meeting concluded with a recognition of the vital role that EMTs play in public health and safety, as well as the ongoing need for support and resources for emergency services in Charlton.
"," EMT emphasizes commitment to state protocols and learning from diverse patient care experiences.",{"_33":100,"_35":36,"_37":38,"_39":101,"_41":102,"_43":103,"_45":104,"_47":105,"_49":106,"_51":107,"_53":108,"_55":56,"_57":58,"_59":109,"_61":62,"_63":64,"_65":110,"_67":68,"_69":70,"_71":68,"_72":73,"_74":73},2178443,"Charleston Board promotes Captain Kevin Barton to Fire Chief amid close candidate competition",899,4957225,5856525,"/Search/View?dp=1&key=2172705-3a4a6a98cf3614c9e1b9ae9729536039&start=4957&end=5856","https://assets.pipeline.soar.com/2172705-3a4a6a98cf3614c9e1b9ae9729536039/thumbnail_4957225.jpg","/articles/2178443/Town-of-Charlton/Worcester-County/Massachusetts/Charleston-Board-promotes-Captain-Kevin-Barton-to-Fire-Chief-amid-close-candidate-competition","https://secure.pipeline.soar.com/2178443-9d25ee5f4e0df54cc53bb33105523017/orig.mp4?Expires=1771158877&Signature=ffKCwxz0ZlEuxkb1YOSij9Ja-SHbtGHFMHnUPDv7Bl~WTLD5WR1WXQnDbKIk-l3lBHYM~ENjnSQ4NH3ENOTW1pQrpzTSFuIvynSmhCSvM9jtwno39tvDU-o-hW05mvbPP2QFXmQgDtxAXAWietAT1AKgXk0Xz9YX9R5CnZRgkTthziYkmG5bUY4MmUfV-j6laQaRqXyKkB5OoadFwInYruVsfnLoxQpRfhIR3VKyUPpoGkWF9AKpyWVAQwfyf0ucdkhbJ5LtKQIKWjjS5nbU1QPMIkUNLTfX63snykUQroIYuWkOJW6U7iu71KWpcud3VHA-gbV58HMB-2NoslYrOQ__&Key-Pair-Id=KUT5TJCACFTXG","The Charlton Board of Selectmen meeting on January 1, 2025, focused on the promotion of a new fire chief, with three highly qualified candidates under consideration. The discussion highlighted the candidates' impressive resumes and community involvement, reflecting the board's commitment to recognizing local talent.

During the meeting, board members expressed their admiration for the candidates, emphasizing their dedication to the town and the fire department. The selection process was described as challenging, with members noting that each candidate brought unique strengths to the table. The board members shared their evaluation methods, which included interviews, resumes, and personal experiences with the candidates.

After thorough deliberation, a motion was made to promote Captain Kevin Barton to the position of fire chief. The motion received support from several board members, who acknowledged Barton's extensive experience, particularly in emergency medical services, as a key factor in their decision. While there were differing opinions on the best candidate, the board ultimately reached a consensus, with Barton being selected for the role.

In his acceptance remarks, Barton expressed gratitude for the opportunity and acknowledged the contributions of his fellow candidates. He emphasized his commitment to continuing the positive direction established by the outgoing chief, highlighting the importance of teamwork and community service.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous expression of support for Barton and the other candidates, reinforcing the board's dedication to fostering a collaborative environment within the fire department. The decision marks a significant step in leadership for the Charlton fire services, with expectations for continued excellence in community safety and engagement.
","Board members commend three outstanding candidates before selecting Kevin Barton as new chief.","actionData","errors"]

Article not found

Charlton Senior Center unveils Rainbow Cafe for LGBTQIA community gatherings

Fire Chief prioritizes firefighter wellbeing after friend is victim in vehicle accident

Veteran EMT reflects on 25 years of community service and patient care challenges

Charleston Board promotes Captain Kevin Barton to Fire Chief amid close candidate competition