The Norwood Board of Selectmen meeting on March 11, 2025, highlighted a significant community initiative to honor a beloved local baseball coach, John Lighthizer, who recently passed away after nearly five decades of service to youth sports in the area. The board discussed a proposal to name the Willett Baseball Field in his memory, recognizing his profound impact on the community and the countless young athletes he mentored.

During the meeting, several members expressed their condolences and shared memories of Lighthizer's contributions to Norwood's baseball and softball programs. "He was quite an organizer," noted one board member, emphasizing the need for formal recognition of Lighthizer's legacy. The suggestion to rename the field was met with enthusiasm, with a motion put forth to explore the logistics of the naming process.

In addition to this heartfelt tribute, the meeting also addressed community concerns regarding Shattuck Park. Board member Plasco raised issues about dog owners not cleaning up after their pets, suggesting the installation of trash barrels at the park's entrances to improve cleanliness. This proposal aims to enhance the park experience for all visitors, particularly dog owners.

The meeting concluded with a sense of community spirit, as members rallied around both the tribute to Lighthizer and the commitment to maintaining local parks. The board plans to further discuss the field naming process and address the cleanliness issues at Shattuck Park in upcoming sessions, ensuring that both initiatives receive the attention they deserve.