By Christine Galeone

For many, summer is a time of day trips to the beach, camp adventures and concerts under a canopy of stars. It’s generally a slower-paced season that features balmy breezes and relaxation.  It’s not typically a time when people look for opportunities.

But opportunities abound throughout the year. And in Grafton, there are several that are already available or fast approaching. 

From 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on the grounds adjacent to the Grafton Police Department on Tuesday August 6, for the 17th year, the GPD will return to joining with many police departments across the country to hold a National Night Out block party to give families a unique opportunity. It hopes to further strengthen the bond it has with residents. There will be family-friendly activities, kids’ activities, safety tips and literature, free food, games, prizes and music. Additionally, free children’s bike helmets, child identification kits and gun locks will be given away. 

In the coming weeks, there will be a chance for many to expand their cultural horizons. The Nipmuc Nation A Time for Healing Pow Wow will be held Sunday July 28 beginning at 10 a.m. It will be hosted by the Nipmuc Nation Tribal Council at 25 Main Street in Grafton.

Premier Sport Taekwondo in North Grafton is offering opportunities through a variety of classes and special offers. Premier Sport Taekwondo, www.premierkick.com, teaches martial arts, karate, taekwondo and self-defense classes for kids, teens and adults. Although they might be sold out by the time this column goes to press, special highly-discounted two-week passes to the studio’s martial arts classes are being offered until mid-August or until they sell out. They include the Adult Taekwondo classes and Teen Taekwondo classes.    

For people who would like to try planting a garden, it’s not too late. There are at least two Grafton businesses that have been announcing summer sales on vegetable plants and annuals lately. Perreault Nursery & Landscape Supply in North Grafton and Pete’s Oasis at Blackstone River Farm in South Grafton might have just what you’re looking for.  

In North Grafton, Houlden Farm, the multi-generational family-owned farm gives people the chance to buy fresh locally grown produce. It sells a variety of its produce – including its highly anticipated ears of sweet corn, which the farm just began harvesting this month – along with dairy items, baked goods and more.

Whether you want to support local farmers while savoring fresher produce or you want to support our local police while enjoying family fun and safety tips, the opportunities are there.  And you don’t have to forego summer relaxation to take advantage of them.

Contact Christine with your business news items at [email protected]