Despite the threat of rain, the Upton Men’s Club’s annual Fireworks Festival on Saturday, June 22nd was a resounding success! The Upton community came together for an evening of fun, food, and fantastic pyrotechnics.

Luck was on our side, as the clouds parted and the rain stopped just in time for the main event. Our dedicated volunteer team worked tirelessly to ensure the show went on, and their efforts paid off with a dazzling fireworks display that lit up the night sky.

The festival offered something for everyone. Children enjoyed a variety of activities, while local bands kept the crowd entertained with live music throughout the evening. Food vendors provided a wide array of delicious options, satisfying hungry festival-goers of all ages.

We’d like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers, sponsors, and community members who made this event possible. Your support and enthusiasm are what make Upton such a special place to live.

On a beautiful spring day last Saturday, the grounds of Shining Rock Golf Club were filled with fancy hats, sport jackets and derby day excitement. The Upton Men’s Club (UMC) hosted their annual Kentucky Derby watch party to a sold-out crowd.

The festive event was made even more special with a unique guest – Ozzie, a retired thoroughbred racehorse from Red Rock Stables. Attendees enjoyed posing for photos with the majestic animal while sipping cocktails and trying their luck at derby-themed prize raffles and games.

As the main event races played on the club’s numerous TV screens, the crowd cheered their bets and fancy Derby outfits were judged for best dressed. The fun and fundraising success was welcome news for the UMC, a civic organization devoted to supporting local community needs.

“The Kentucky Derby party has become an annual tradition our members and guests look forward to,” said UMC Derby organizer Brad Webster. “Not only is it a fun social event, but it raises important funds for the many programs and services the UMC provides in our area.”

The UMC works to enhance the community by contributing volunteer efforts and financial resources to fill gaps where public funding falls short. Their activities include hosting senior citizen dinners, coordinating community beautification efforts, and supporting youth programs. Proceeds from events like the Derby party allow the club’s mission to continue.

Webster expressed gratitude to the guests and many local businesses who donated raffle prizes and sponsored the event. “The community support enables us to have an even greater positive impact with the money raised.”

As the Upton Men’s Club marked another successful watch party in the books, members already have an eye towards their next major fundraising events – the annual UMC Corn Hole and Golf Tournaments. Using local resources and partnerships, the club continues its commitment to making Upton an even better place to live, work and raise a family.

The cold rain may have been coming down, but it couldn’t put a damper on the Upton Men’s Club Annual Easter Egg Hunt fun! When soggy weather forced the event indoors on March 23rd, the Memorial School gym and cafeteria became the best alternate venue.  Despite being indoors, the Upton Men’s Club and co-sponsors Upton Police Association and Upton Fire/EMS Association still pulled off an egg-ceptional event.

The Upton Police rolled out a cruiser for kids to check out, granting their wishes to get a peek inside. Not to be outdone, Upton Fire/EMS brought along a real fire truck and rescue vehicle to dazzle the crowd.

Hundreds of eager egg hunters and their families didn’t let the gloomy skies stop the festivities. Kids of all ages got to meet the Easter Bunny and have professional photos taken to capture the special moment.

While awaiting their turn for the main egg-hunting events, youngsters stayed entertained at 8 arts and crafts stations set up by the amazing Team Ava volunteers. The group raised funds for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society through the day’s activities.

The Upton Bloomers Girls wouldn’t let the rain stop them from selling their delicious baked goods either! Families could grab some sweet treats while exploring all the other fun happenings.

Of course, the main events were the two egg hunts split up by age groups to give everyone a fair chance at snagging those candy-filled prize eggs. You could practically feel the buzz of excitement in the air as the littlest hunters prepared for their turn!  It took only 90 seconds for the kids to pick up every last egg!!

In the spirit of community, the event collected hundreds of non-perishable food items donated to the Upton Senior Center, United Parish, and St. Gabriel’s food pantries.

Thanks to all the families who came out to make memories, and huge kudos to our amazing partners and volunteers- especially the incredible Team Ava group.

Donations are greatly appreciated. Proceeds will go to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.