Parmenter’s second annual Hoedown for Children’s Bereavement was a huge success. A fun crowd of cowboys and cowgirls filled the Wolbach Farm which was beautifully decorated with lights, corn stalks and mums on a gorgeous fall evening. The mechanical bull riding stole the show. Many participants climbed on the bull competing for the longest ride, only to be tossed off within seconds. Meagan Coppola of Sudbury won the prize and stayed on the longest. Fred Mannarino of Holliston was the best dressed in his LED lit cowboy shirt. The line dance competition was won by Tom Apprile and Jackie George.

Amongst all of the fun was the important reason for gathering – raising funds for children’s bereavement programs in our area. Jennifer Wiles said “this is a critical time in these children’s lives. They’ve suffered terrible losses whether it is through natural causes, an accident, or suicide, losing a parent, sibling, or close loved one is difficult for anyone. The support they received from Heartplay and Camp Erin Boston will help them to be strong and impact them for the rest of their lives.”

A special thank you to all our major sponsors: Bill and Mavis Efthim, Center Stage Interior Designs, Michael Halloran, Hounds Barbershop, Eugene & Corinne Reppucci, NSK Incorporated, Middlesex Savings Bank, Sudbury Farms and Stop & Shop. And thank you to our in-kind supporters, Brett’s Luggage & Gifts, Cavicchio Greenhouses, Driscoll Piano Service, Elizabeth Grady, JJ McKays, Koko Fitness, Lavin’s Liquor, Learning Express, Liberty Pizza, Lux Nail Salon, Marlboro Savings, Bank, Neil Phyllis Kaufman, Quality Care Wash, Salem 5 Bank, Shaw’s, Sudbury Farms, Tennessee BBQ, The Local, Truell Design, West Sport, Whole Foods. We could not have done it without you! Heartplay and Camp Erin are FREE services to our community. They need and deserve your support. For more information visit www.parmenter.org.