WINNERS of the Jaycee Derby conducted as part of the Norwood Fourth of July Celebration, were (left to right): Ron Bernado, first place winner, James Conton, second; Nancy Lee Ricker, third, and Stephen Valentine, fourth. Standing in business suit is Les Thompson of Thompson Pontiac, sponsor of the event in cooperation with the Jaycees. (Kenneth McLean Photo)

John F. Gannon, chairman, announced the Winners of the Jaycee Derby held in Norwood on the morning of the Fourth of July.

First place winner was Ronald Bernardo of 56 Sycamore Street, Norwood. Second prize went to James Conton of 19 Oak Road, third to Nancy Lee Riker of 69 Alandale Parkway, and fourth to Stephen Valentine of 18 Norton Drive. James Conton, the second place winner, also was the winner of a special award of a $25 U. S Savings Bond, donated by Les Thompson of Thompson Pontiac, Norwood, and presented to the boy who had the best-constructed car in the derby. The four winners rode on the Jaycee float in the parade that afternoon. Carl Merrill, who was the official starter, has invited the winners to be guests at stock car races at the Norwood Arena. The Jaycees expressed their appreciation to the many friends who helped make this year’s derby a success.

(All articles were originally published in the Norwood Messenger unless otherwise noted)

Top Posts From September (Part II)

Top Posts From September (Part II)

In this final installment, we unveil the top 25 entries most enjoyed by readers: the anniversaries that stirred civic pride, revealed forgotten corners of our history, and honored the people who shaped Norwood’s character. Whether it’s a groundbreaking, a grand…

Top Posts From September (Part I)

Top Posts From September (Part I)

in Part 1 of a two-part retrospective, we begin counting down the 50 most-read and most-loved entries this month- the stories that resonated most with our readers. These first 25 anniversaries stirred memories, honored legacies, and reminded us why Norwood’s…

Norwood Scrapbook-August 3

Norwood Scrapbook-August 3

A comprehensive daily compilation of historical news from Norwood, Massachusetts on August 3. Featuring stories of town planning, public safety efforts, regional transportation, local achievements, and community concert traditions.

Traffic Concerns Stall Zoning Board Hearing on Proposed Caldor Shopping Center on Route 1-July 30, 1980

Traffic Concerns Stall Zoning Board Hearing on Proposed Caldor Shopping Center on Route 1-July 30, 1980

A zoning board hearing for the proposed $3 million Caldor shopping center on Route 1 was continued to August 19 as developers Bronson & Hutensky worked to finalize safe traffic access through Park Place Industrial Park.

In Memoriam: Walter J. “Wally” Hughes Jr. (1947 – July 25, 2026)

In Memoriam: Walter J. “Wally” Hughes Jr. (1947 – July 25, 2026)

Opening Tribute The Norwood community joins the Hughes family in mourning the unexpected passing of Walter J. “Wally” Hughes Jr. on July 25, 2026, at the age of 79. For … Continue reading In Memoriam: Walter J. “Wally” Hughes Jr.…


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