By Julia Beauregard
Hometown Weekly Editor
Hometown Weekly Editor Julia Beauregard had the pleasure to sit down recently with Madison Butkus, Hometown Weekly Reporter. Maddie details the various spots in our towns that she enjoys visiting, her many talents, and shares some wonderful piece of advice that we can all learn from. Be sure to keep an eye out for new installations of the Hometown Ten, and to look out for Hometown Weekly’s reporters on the road — you might be our next subject!
1) What is the best book you’ve ever read and why?
While being an English major in college I have read some overall amazing books. I think my current favorite would be “Verity” by Colleen Hoover. I finished this book within a day and it had me on the edge of my seat the whole time. While somewhat of a different read, the ending was absolutely incredible, I did not see it coming!
2)What is your claim to fame?
I’ve always had a knack for writing. It wasn’t something that I loved at first but overtime once I realized I was good at it, I truly started to fall in love with it. Schoolwork was something that I really thrived at and I had great motivation to get good grades. I ended up graduating college with a 4.0 GPA. I also feel as if I am really good with people and love to explore new places and things. Journalism was not in the forefront of my mind when thinking about a job but I am so glad that I found it. I love doing what I do and writing/going to different events across these towns.
3) Besides your home (if you live here), what's your favorite spot in the towns we cover?
While I reside in Attleboro, MA, I love going to all the towns that we cover. Many of the events are so unique and different and bring each town closer together. I would say my current favorite spot to go to is the old Medfield State Hospital grounds. There is such a deep history surrounding the area and I think it is really cool how the town of Medfield is now using it for such great activities and events. It’s a beautiful outdoor space to go to and enjoy some peace and quiet, a musical event, car show, and more!
4) Give me a good recommendation.
A really good recommendation I have for all towns would be to check out the local libraries as much as you can. They have so many incredible events that they host either online, on site, and even off site at different locations. There is a great variety between kid, teen, and adult events that are all super interesting. Overall there is truly something for everyone and the best part is you can check out some amazing books as well!
5) What advice would you give to your past self?
Enjoy every little moment. Life goes by so fast and absolutely nothing is guaranteed. Spend more time with your family, call your parents and tell them you love them and are thankful for all that they do. Don’t take anything in life for granted and just enjoy the process of growing up.
6) If you had to spend a million dollars in a day, how would you do it?
This is a great question yet a tough one. First and foremost I would make sure that my family is taken care of. I would buy my Dad and my significant other, Sean, both a new car. I would buy my Grandma a place closer to me where she could visit whenever. I’d definitely buy a new house for myself, Sean and our amazing dog Bailey. While I spoil Bailey already, I would buy her all the toys she would ever need.
7) Who is the most influential person in your life and why?
The most influential person in my life would have to be my Mom. She unfortunately passed away a couple years ago, but she was my absolute best friend in the entire world. We had the best relationship and were always so close with one another. She raised me into the woman I am today and I will forever be grateful for that. No matter if I was right or wrong, she was always on my side. She encouraged me to be the best version of myself and was overall the most supportive Mom. Between chaperoning class trips to coming to almost all of my tennis matches, I’ll never forget what she has done for me. I hope I continue to still make her proud today.
8) How do you spend your free time?
I love to spend my free time with Sean and Bailey, either watching movies or going for walks. I like to read and pick up different hobbies now and then. I additionally love going out with family and friends. Going on adventures and traveling to new and old places is also really fun for me. My Dad and I are avid Disney fanatics so we love to go there every year!
9) Describe your perfect day (where you’d go, who you’d be with, what you’d do).
This is another great but tough question. I would say my perfect day would consist of being with Sean, Bailey as well as my close family and friends. For me, it wouldn’t matter what we did or where we went as long as we were all together. I’m pretty easy going, as long as I am with the people I love I’ll do whatever!
10) WILD CARD - Do you have a favorite sports team/player?
I am an avid New England sports fan. My favorite team would have to be the Boston Celtics. I absolutely love watching every game and was lucky enough to go to two this past season including a playoff game. My current favorite player would have to be Jayson Tatum or Marcus Smart. Both are incredible players on and off the court.
