Mrs. Eva Michienzi Crowned Mother of the Year-This Day in Norwood History-June 3, 1964

Mrs. Eva Michienzi Crowned “Mother of the Year” at Norwood Cinema Ceremony

NORWOOD — June 3, 1964 — Before a packed audience at the Norwood Cinema last Friday night, Mrs. Eva Michienzi of 12 Franklin Street was crowned “Mother of the Year”, the winner of a spirited contest sponsored by the Norwood Uptown Merchants’ Association.

The honor could not have gone to a more admired or deserving woman. Mrs. Michienzi—mother of ten children, including two Norwood police officers—received more than 10,000 votes out of approximately 15,000 ballots cast in local stores. The contest drew widespread attention across town, with residents enthusiastically supporting their favorite nominees.

A Community Celebration

Mrs. Michienzi, a widow since the passing of her husband Frank Michienzi in 1959, was visibly moved as she accepted the title. Her victory earned her an all‑expense‑paid trip for two to the World’s Fair in New York, along with a host of additional prizes donated by local merchants.

The first runner‑up, Mrs. E. J. Begley, received a portable television set, while second runner‑up Mrs. Betty Lou Pace was awarded a portable stereo.

A Family Rooted in Service and Strength

Mrs. Michienzi’s life is a testament to perseverance, devotion, and family pride. Her ten children include:

• Patrolmen Thomas and James Michienzi of the Norwood Police Department
• Jennie Michienzi
• Joseph Michienzi, currently attending Northeastern University
• Mrs. Mary Carchedi
• Mrs. Francis Simoni
• Frank Michienzi, Jr.
• Mrs. Kathleen Bilott
• Mrs. Eva Freitas of Dedham

One child is deceased.

In addition to raising her large family, Mrs. Michienzi works at the Rustcraft greeting card plant in Dedham, where she is helping to support Joseph’s college education. She is also the proud grandmother of seventeen.

A Distinguished Ceremony

The evening’s program was highlighted by the presence of Mrs. Francis X. Bellotti, wife of the Lieutenant Governor of the Commonwealth. Mrs. Bellotti introduced the winners and presented Mrs. Michienzi with a bouquet of roses.

The crown itself was placed on the winner’s head by “Nate” Kravetz, president of the Norwood Uptown Merchants’ Association, who congratulated her warmly on behalf of the sponsoring group.

The Town Manager welcomed the crowd and introduced Mrs. Bellotti, noting that she herself could qualify as a “mother of the year”—she is the mother of eleven children and expecting her twelfth.

A Night of Pride for Norwood

The ceremony, filled with applause, smiles, and heartfelt emotion, reflected the deep admiration the community holds for Mrs. Michienzi. Her dedication to her family, her work, and her town embodies the very qualities the contest sought to honor.

As she stood on the cinema stage, roses in hand and crown upon her head, Mrs. Eva Michienzi represented not only her own family but the strength, resilience, and love that define so many Norwood mothers.

Norwood Messenger

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