CA 230602 corrected

Appeal filed for Beal Commons project

Westborough commemorates Memorial Day

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

WESTBOROUGH – Across the region, communities gathered on May 29 to commemorate Memorial Day.

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – Several residents have filed an appeal with the Land Court seeking to annul the Planning Board’s approval of the Beal Commons project slated for 1-7 Maple Ave., the former site of Maj. Howard W. Beal School.

The Planning Board approved Beal Commons by a 4-1 vote during a special meeting on April 13. The project seeks to build 53 apartments with 7,000 square feet of retail space.

The appeal lists seven plaintiffs — Julie Ross, Barry Pulster, James Kavanagh, Elizabeth Kavanagh, David Moyer, Karin Holovnia and Lynda Camarra — all of whom live on nearby Hascall Street and Wesleyan Street. The group is represented by Henry Lane of the Whitinsville-based law firm Lane and Hamer P.C.

The five members of the Planning Board at the time — Steven Boulay, Stephan Rodolakis, Timothy Jarry, Joseph Thomas Jr. and Purnachander Rao — are listed as defendants. The developer Shrewsbury Hascall MM LLC is also listed as a defendant in the case.

Westborough’s parade made stops at several cemeteries across town, including Pine Grove and Midland, before stopping at the Forbes Municipal Building for the Memorial Day program.

This year, the grand marshal was World War II veteran Jack Crane; however, Crane was ill and could not attend the ceremony. His family participated in the ceremony.

According to Veterans Advisory Board member Marshall Preston, Crane lives in the Highlands in Westborough.

Grafton residents debate Pleasant Commons proposal

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

GRAFTON – Amid the research into soil, traffic, water and affordable housing, abutters of the proposed development at 59 Pleasant St. continue to ask about safety, traffic and possible environmental impacts.

During a public hearing conducted by the

Zoning Board of Appeals on Wednesday, May 17, the ZBA joined representatives from the applicant, 59 Pleasant St. Properties LLC, in presenting updates and fielding questions.

Plans for the Reserve at Pleasant Commons call for a total of 104 units across four multifamily apartment buildings – the market-rate units will include 24 one-bedroom apartments; 45 two-bedroom apartments; and

Where Private Apartments Meet Peace of Mind

PHOTO/RENEE THOMPSON

Daisies wave as they walk in Westborough’s Memorial Day parade.

The Beal Commons project has been appealed.

PHOTO/LAURA HAYES

APR* 5.875%/5.984%

*APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Some restrictions may apply. Eligibility is determined by your personal credit history, employment, and income. Approved amounts may vary and are subject to credit approval. Rate is good on new and used vehicles. Monthly payment is based on a rate of 5.875%/5.984% APR for 60 months; payment per month for $25,000 borrowed is $481.87. APR may vary based on final loan amount, loan term, payment method, account relationship, and credit history. A re-title fee may apply and will increase the APR. A $65.00 VSI fee will apply. Rate as of 6/1/23. Rates are subject to change without notice.

The Marlborough Commuter Shuttle is back in service!

The 12 -passenger handicap-accessible shuttle connects local commuters between three stops at the Southborough MBTA Commuter Rail, the Apex Center of New England, and the business park located at 200 Forest Street This option provides free public transportation for those who take the train to and/or from Boston and Worcester

Monday through Friday Morning Trips: 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.

Afternoon/Evening Trips: 3:45 p m to 6:46 p m

Any questions or concerns, please contact us at 508-229-2010 or info@marlboroughedc.com

For a complete schedule

WESTBOROUGH – Although the first official day of summer isn’t until later this month, locals are already looking for ways to beat the heat, including visiting local ice cream shops like Uhlman’s Ice Cream. Uhlman’s, located on East Main Street, was started in 1967 and now boasts at least 70 flavors of hard ice cream.

The Community Advocate’s Policy on Letters to the Editor

All letters should be 350 words or less. Letters should be emailed to news@communityadvocate.com and managingeditor@communityadvocate.com or mailed to Managing Editor, Community Advocate, 32 South St. Westborough MA 01581. Letters must have the name, address and phone number of the person submitting it (only name and town will be printed.) Letters will be reviewed and printed at the discretion of the Editor as they are deemed suitable and as space allows. Letters that contain personal attacks will not be printed. Opinions expressed in the letters to the editor do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Community Advocate or its advertisers.

Shrewsbury Select Board to hold office hours

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – During their May 23 meeting, the Select Board announced that they would begin to hold office hours, giving the community another opportunity to interact with their elected officials.

The first office hours will be held on June 13 from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in Conference Room A at the Town Hall (100 Maple Avenue).

The Select Board currently plans to hold office hours from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. before their first Tuesday meeting of every month. The board sent out a brief survey to residents to gauge which times, locations, and meeting places may work best for future office hours sessions.

Community members can expect up to two Select Board members to attend office hours.

Select Board member John Samia first suggested the idea

during the board’s May 9 meeting, noting that relatively few people take advantage of the public comment portion of their biweekly meetings. The new office hours will offer an offcamera, informal, face-to-face medium for communication and feedback.

“We hope to see residents, and we invite you to come,” Samia said.

Samia also said that the board had started to implement office hours just before the COVID-19 pandemic, and that the sessions had “gained traction” before the pandemic shutdown.

When Samia had announced office hours on May 23, Select Board Chair Beth Casavant presided over yet another Select Board meeting with no public comment.

“That’s really been our experience… nobody signs up [to speak],” Casavant said. “Hopefully, with office hours, we might have a little bit more success with engaging with the public.”

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Flavorful & Affordable

The Mâconnais district is a subregion of southern Burgundy in France and is essentially a white-wine producing area. Mâcon-Villages AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée) is an exclusive appellation for 100 percent Chardonnay wines. Grapes are grown in certain villages in this area and crafted there into some of the world’s most delicious Chardonnay wines. These straw-colored, mediumbodied wines are usually fermented in stainless steel and are unoaked. Wines are bottled early to retain their fresh, vibrant flavors and subtle minerality. Not only are Mâcon-Villages wines thirst-quenching, bright, and crisp, but they are also among the best values available for pure Chardonnay wines. Keep in mind that flavor can vary somewhat from each village and each terroir of origin.

A good bottle of wine can liven up any party or meal. For more information, please call 508-366-1942 or visit JULIO’S LIQUORS at 140 Turnpike Rd., Rt. 9 East. Each member of our staff is friendly, passionate, and knowledgeable about wines. Collectively, we have many decades of experience and knowledge to offer our customers. With a wide variety of fine wines, spirits, beer, and tobacco, we also have many other unique items that set us apart from the average liquor store.

HINT: Serve Mâcon-Villages wines chilled as an aperitif, sip with a luncheon salad, or pair with entrées such as seafood or roasted chicken.

If you like our Un-cork’d article every week, check out our radio show & podcast –It’s The Liquor

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DON’T MISS OUR AD ON PAGE 9

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Westborough approves funds for dog park

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – The Recreation Department has placed the splash pad on the shelf for now and is proceeding with plans for a dog park at the state hospital grounds.

During the Select Board meeting on Tuesday, May 23, Director Jenn Kirkland asked the board to allow a re-allocation of $175,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funds from the splash pad to the dog park.

Kirkland said that $275,000 in ARPA money was slated for the splash pad, which would have been installed at Bay State Commons. However, the costs came in higher than planned, and there is a zoning issue that needs to be addressed.

According to Kirkland, there are 2,200 dogs registered in town. A dog park would help alleviate the problem of off-leash dogs running around in other public spaces. It would also give those with limited yard space an opportunity to exercise their dogs.

In addition to the ARPA money, the dog park will be funded through the Stanton Foundation. The ARPA funds would go toward 10% of the hard construction costs.

The dog park would be close to the main

Hygge House Books to pop up as part of Project: Pop-Up

entry at Lyman Street, away from the playing fields. It would be under the supervision of the Recreation Department. The department will work with the animal control officer to come up with policies and procedures once the dog park opens.

In response to the problem of dog poop along Lake Chauncy and other areas, Kirkland said there will be signs and bag dispensers installed.

The board approved the request, and it authorized the building of the dog park.

According to a timeline provided by Kirkland, requests for proposals for architects will go out in June; during the summer an architect will be selected to design the mark and prepare construction bid documents.

During the fall, the Stanton Foundation will review the project. Should it be approved, RFPs will be sent out for dog park construction. In late fall, the bids will be opened and sent to the foundation, and a memorandum of understanding drawn up. Should everything go according to plan, construction of the dog park would start in early 2024, with opening slated for that September.

The remaining funds from the splash park will be used for another project.

WESTBOROUGH – The Westborough Economic Development Committee (EDC), and its partners at UpNext and the 495/MetroWest Partnership, have announced that Hygge House Books will pop up in early June.

As part of the town’s Project: PopUp, Hygge House Books will be located at 57 E. Main St., Unit 39.

Owned by Westborough resident Beth Orsini, Hygge House Books is a pop-up bookstore that specializes in creating unique book experiences and building local literacy.

Residents may have already seen Hygge House Books popping up at the Westborough Farmers Market, local businesses, such as Elsie Kaye Glassworks and the BORO Sugar Shack, and community events, like “Bookin’ it to Bay State” by Westborough Connects.

Orsini’s goal is to “offer fun and unique ways for people to connect and discover new reads.”

Her business works with schools, nonprofit organizations and local businesses to advance that mission.

“We are very happy to be able to seed local entrepreneurship by cre-

ating opportunities in vacant storefronts for emerging brands to test out brick-and-mortar retail,” said Zach Boughner, Westborough’s economic development coordinator.

First launched in 2021, Project: Pop-Up is an initiative created by UpNext to help revitalize town centers and commercial hubs still emerging from the economic effects of the COVID-19. Through this initiative, UpNext partners with municipalities to activate empty storefronts as temporary, pop-up incubators for emerging entrepreneurs seeking to test their concepts in brick-and-mortar retail.

“We are so delighted to bring this unique initiative to Westborough and look forward to supporting Hygge House Books as they test drive the retail experience within this vibrant community,” said UpNext founder Allison Yee.

This project is being funded by the Massachusetts Office of Business Development REDO grant program as part of the state’s efforts to accelerate economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

SHREWSBURY THEN NOW

By Michael Perna Jr. History Columnist

SHREWSBURY – This photograph, part of a large collection from the Bigelow family, shows Clarence Bigelow standing in a small rowboat with a shotgun. He was a son of Horace Holly Bigelow, who developed a large part of the area around Lake Quinsigamond and the famous White City Amusement Park.

The caption with the photo states “Shooting pickerel, South Brook.” Where he has rowed to is what is still to this day known as South Brook, which runs from the north side of Route 9, under Oak Street, then down to Lake Quinsigamond under South Quinsigamond Avenue.

Of course, today it would be unheard of for anyone to shoot at fish with a shotgun. Presumably, back in the early 1900s it was just considered another form of outdoor amusement! When this photograph was taken, South Quinsigamond Avenue was mostly a dirt path ― it wasn’t until years later that the road was put in and a small bridge

(replaced in recent years) was built over the brook. Clarence Bigelow himself, from what we can gather from many of the photographs in the collection, was quite a presence around the “Lake” in those times. He belonged to a number of different boat clubs in addition to being employed at the White City Amusement Park from its earliest days.

Northborough Art Guild plans annual art show

NORTHBOROUGH – The community is invited to enjoy a variety of art at the Northborough Art Guild’s Annual Art Show.

The show will be June 10 and 11 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Northborough Historical Society Building.

This is the guild’s 60th anniversary. The show will feature

paintings from both Northborough artists and those from neighboring towns. Additionally, as a partnership with the Northborough Garden Club, members will create arrangements to complement the paintings.

There will also be a silent auction of several of the paintings.

Northborough Free Library book sale June 9-10

NORTHBOROUGH – The summer reading book sale is coming to the Northborough Free Library.

The sale will be held on June 9 from noon to 5 p.m. and June 10 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The book sale will feature books, audiobooks, DVDs and CDs. Books will be priced between $0.50 and $1, though

Look to ThisForDay... it is life - the very life of life

happiness and every tomorrow a vision of hope.

some books may be priced slightly higher. Proceeds will go toward library programs, museum passes and other items.

According to the Friends of the Northborough Library, there will not be a member preview or bag sale.

The Northborough Free Library is located at 34 Main Street.

Clarence Bigelow, a member of the prominent family who owned the White City Amusement Park in Shrewsbury, takes aim at a pickerel in South Brook in the early 1900s.

Office Space

Your Money, Your Independence

Establish Access When Things Are Good, Not When Times Turn Bad

Planning for the unexpected when things are good is a necessary evil.

This is true for electing work benefits, insurance, estate planning and access to equity.

When engaging in discovery with new clients, I often encounter misconceptions or bias against Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC).

Their mindset is to seek one only when there is a large home repair or renovation project. True, it can be used for this purpose and the interest could be tax-deductible. But there’s other benefits to consider in using access to the equity you’ve built as a tool.

Let’s take a step back, make we sure understand the tool.

What’s a HELOC? - A second mortgage that allows you to borrow money using the equity in your home as collateral - a secured line of credit. There is an underwriting approval process with a hard credit pull and home appraisal, which determine terms including duration (usually 10-15 years), variable rate benchmark (-/+ Prime Rate) and credit limit.

Most banks/credit unions allow 70% or 80% Loan-To-Value (LTV) minus mortgage balance. For example, your house now appraises for $800K. At 70% LTV is $560K less mortgage balance of $400K means potential $160K HELOC. At 80% LTV, $640K - $400K = $240K HELOC.

Upon closing, you’re provided a checking account to move money into and out of the HELOC as you please. If you do borrow, you will only owe interest for a monthly payment. However, keep the balance at $0, then no interest or fees.

And that’s the strategy - keep the balance at $0 for the “what ifs” in life.

Take a dual-income household with slightly positive cash flow each month. When bonuses or RSUs vest, they build savings, pay cash for big expenditures, take vacations, etc. They could be approved for ~$150K HELOC but choose not to plan and apply.

Then the following happens:

Job-Loss - Instead of coming from a position of strength, you’re now at the mercy of a lendergood luck on those terms, even if approved.

Bank Balance Sheets Gone Mad - Fall 2008 saw banks stop issuing new HELOCs almost 2 years. Some tried to reduce, even close HELOCs, but regulators stepped as it is secured line of credit. As long as the collateral (house) and borrower uphold terms of agreement, the banks couldn’t change terms - even if you lost your job. Same is not true for credit cards.

World Gone Mad - Remember when we’d shut down for 2 weeks to end a pandemic but instead laid off 38 million by end of April 2020? Banks stopped issuing new HELOCs and slowed new mortgages until October. And those with high limit HELOCs at $0 balance became cash buyers of vacation homes from cash-seeking sellers. More opportunistic planning occurred using cash-out refi in 2021 on new property to lock in a low, fixed rate.

Economic Downturn - Banks reduce lending in anticipation of economic slowdowns. Regardless of your opinion on recession, we can all agree banks need deposits in order to underwrite new loans/lines. What’s been a recent problem banks are having to maintain? Deposits. Declining deposits equals declining new lending applications. There are more strategies to consider for HELOCs. Like using as an emergency savings proxy to reduce opportunity costs or delay/spread out taxation from selling investments over calendar years to meet unexpected cash needs.

Talk to your Certified Financial Planner to learn more.

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.

Glenn Brown lives in MetroWest and is owner of PlanDynamic, LLC, www.PlanDynamic.com. He is a fee-only Certified Financial Planner™ helping motivated people take control of their planning and investing, so they can balance kids, aging parents and financial independence.

Glenn Brown, CFP

Residents file appeal for Beal Commons project

Beal Commons | from page 1

The plaintiffs’ five-page complaint contains multiple allegations, including that the project would not suit the town center.

“The board’s decision failed to adequately consider the appropriateness of the proposed location of the development,” the court documents read, alleging the board failed to

properly consider the parking space allocation, and the “adverse effect the proposed development would otherwise have on the neighborhood.”

The appeal claims that the Planning Board’s findings were “not based on the weight of credible evidence presented at the hearings.”

The complaint also contains several architectural

Aging Gracefully

by MariAnn Paladino, Dir. of Admissions, Notre Dame Long Term Care

KEEPING IN TOUCH WITH THE GRAND KIDS

Families today are much more spread out than they were a few generations ago. While it was once common to have three generations living in the same home, or at least within walking distance, 40 or 50 years ago, it is more likely now to have many miles separating grandparents and grandchildren. However, it is still possible to foster close, loving relationships over long distances. Frequent contact is key and shouldn’t be limited to phone calls. Communicate on their level with texts and FaceTime. Text messages may seem trivial to you, but for most young people they are their primary form of communication and you are far more likely to get a response from a text than a phone call.

Many young people rely solely or primarily on social media to communicate about their lives, so seniors may have better luck chatting with grandchildren and children through social media than through more traditional methods. If you want to learn more about social media, consider visiting your local library or senior center. Many now o er social media classes for seniors like you— just one more way to meet people! At NOTRE DAME LONG TERM CARE, we provide skilled nursing care for chronic or acutely ill residents. PH: (508) 852-3011; 559 Plantation Street.

P.S Feeling judged or misunderstood are the top reasons most kids have for avoiding contact with their grandparents, so keeping an open mind and being patient and tolerant will help keep communication flowing.

Notre Dame Health Care

Worcester, MA

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objections.

“The development of a vertical mixed-use building… does not meet the type of… development permitted in the Town Center Zoning District,” the document says, and that the “decision failed to maintain a consistently high level of design quality in terms of physical design, scale and visual characteristics.”

The plaintiffs’ complaint concludes by stating that “the [Planning] Board’s decision granting the special permits was contrary to law, arbitrary and capricious and exceeded the authority of the board, and the plaintiffs are aggrieved thereby.”

The court paperwork also includes the 17-page Planning Board decision, which

Seniors on the move

Celebrating 15 Years Supporting Seniors in Marlborough!

This spring, Christopher Heights of Marlborough Assisted Living is celebrating our 15-year anniversary of opening our doors to the seniors of the city of Marlborough and its surrounding communities!

Located at the site of the old Frye Boot Factory at 99 Pleasant Street on French Hill, our socialmodel building is comprised of 83 private apartments, equipped with private bathroom, walk-in shower, kitchenette with full-sized refrigerator, A/C and call system for requesting personal care attendants to assist with any number of daily tasks.

Living in a supportive environment such as this is meant to help prolong the independence of you or your loved one. is housing option is often overlooked because many don’t realize it is a viable option until there is an emergency. ere is often resistance because there are many misconceptions surrounding this senior living option, including affordability, access and services provided.

We o er an all-inclusive pricing structure while giving you peace of mind knowing you

can age in place in your own private apartment through our No Worries o erings. Enjoy daily activities and chances for engagement, in-house hair salon services, weekly housekeeping and laundry services, daily assistance with personal care needs and medication reminders. We also o er scheduled care as well as pull-cord access to sta 24/7.

With all the amenities being o ered, what happens if your private funds run out? Well, we can work with several programs that help to pay for your services and allow you to age in place! We also accept Long Term Care Insurance and Veteran’s Aid and Attendance bene ts. For more information or to inquire about touring, call 508-281-8001 to learn about the Christopher Heights di erence!

508-281-8001

99 Pleasant St., Marlborough, MA www.christopherheights.com

outlines all the materials the board reviewed in the application process, and includes the board’s full rationale behind the decision.

Town Manager Kevin Mizikar declined to comment.

A case management conference is scheduled for June 13, and will be heard by Jennifer S.D. Roberts, an associate justice with the Land Court.

HOMES MORE&

Powerful Job Market Fuels Homebuyer Demand

The spring housing market has been surprisingly active this year. Even with affordability challenges and a limited number of homes for sale, buyer demand is strong, and getting stronger.

One way we know there are interested buyers right now is because showing traffic is up. Data from the latest ShowingTime Showing Index, which is a measure of buyers actively touring homes, makes it clear more people are out looking at homes than there were prior to the pandemic (see graph below):

Elaine Quigley, CBR, CRS, GRI

Elaine.Quigley@commonmoves.com

Cell: (508) 735-5161

www.EQRE.com

And though there’s less traffic than the buyer frenzy of the past couple of years, we’re not far off that pace. There are a lot of interested buyers checking out available homes right now.

But why are buyers so active at a time when mortgage rates are higher than they were just last year?

The Job Market Is Growing at a Stronger-Than-Expected Pace

With inflation still high, the Federal Reserve (the Fed) repeatedly hiking the Federal Funds Rate, and a lot of chatter in the media about a recession, it might surprise you just how strong today’s job market is. What might be even more surprising is the fact that it appears to be getting stronger (see graph above, right):

Each month, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports how many new jobs were added to the U.S. job market. The graph above shows 88,000 more jobs were created in April than in March. In fact, the April numbers beat expert projections. That’s a solid indicator the job market is growing.

Unemployment Is at a Near All-Time Low

Ever since the Fed began fighting inflation, many people expected the low unemployment rate we’ve seen over the past couple of years to rise – but that hasn’t happened.

In fact, what has happened is the unemployment rate has dropped to 3.4% – a 50-year low (see graph below):

With so many people steadily employed and financially stable right now, they’re still able to seriously consider buying a home.

What This Means for You

If you’re thinking about selling your house this year, a market with active buyers is music to your ears. That’s because there’ll be increased interest in your home when you put it on the market, especially at a time when the number of homes for sale is so low.

To get started, your best resource is an experienced real estate agent. They can help you price your house appropriately, navigate the offers you’ll receive, negotiate effectively, and minimize your stress and hassle.

Bottom Line

There are plenty of buyers out there right now trying to find a home that fits their needs. That’s because the job market is strong, and many people have the stable income needed to seriously consider homeownership. To put your house on the market and get in on the action, let’s connect.

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Grafton residents debate Pleasant Commons proposal

Pleasant Commons | from page 1 nine three-bedroom apartments. The affordable units will include four one-bedroom apartments; 15 two-bedroom apartments; and seven threebedroom apartments.

The 12.4-acre site is currently owned by members of the Wasiuk family, subject to a purchase-and-sale agreement with the applicant.

Half of the site would be donated to the town for open space and conservation purposes.

As part of the plans, developer Eastland Partners of Worcester will install a sidewalk and a 14-foot-tall privacy berm.

A possible switch from peaked roofs to flat roofs drew criticism from ZBA member William Yeomans.

“The design is a major issue in my mind,” he said. “I think the flat roof is ugly. This should be addressed sooner rather than later.”

Residents weigh in Todd Kramer, who lives on Peters Way, wrote to the ZBA that he supports the project.

“Eastland has agreed to help mitigate drainage that has caused flooding to occur on our property,” he wrote. “They have agreed to donate the wooded area to the town and keep access to the trails.”

While some abutters said they support having more affordable housing projects in Grafton, they do not want this project in their neighborhood.

“We are not opposed to affordable housing projects. We are strongly opposed to this project,” said Pleasant Street residents Gail and Bob Sjoberg in a letter to the ZBA. “This neighborhood is zoned for single-family homes with lot sizes of 1 acre. Several projects have been completed off Pleasant Street with 40B cluster development, which includes smaller lots, and open space.”

“These projects were completed and although they add traffic to the street, we feel they were done within the character of the neighborhood. This project is not at all within the character of the neighborhood,” the letter states.

The Sjobergs cited the number of rental units on six acres; the traffic count; the egress for fire apparatus; and how close the development would be to buffer zones.

During the May 17 hearing, several abutters voiced their concerns about the possible impact on local wildlife. One resident said that bald eagles nest nearby.

According to the proposal’s development impact statement, “The project will not alter any wetland resource areas; only minor work will occur in the buffer zone.”

Traffic was another topic that drew plenty of discussion.

“I am terrified for the safety of the

children,” said a Pleasant Street resident, citing the amount of traffic that uses the long and narrow roadway.

The ZBA voted to continue the public hearing to Thursday, June 15, at 7 p.m. in the Community Room at the Grafton Public Library.

For more information on the project, visit https://www.grafton-ma.gov/865/ CASE-892-59-PLEASANT-ST-PROPERTIES-LLC

“ This project is not at all within the character of the neighborhood.

Gail and Bob Sjoberg Residents

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH – A volley of shots rang out across town as the Northborough Memorial Day parade made stops at monuments throughout Northborough.

The parade’s final stop was at the veterans memorial at Howard Street Cemetery.

Northborough’s delegation — Reps. Kate Donaghue and Meg Kilcoyne and Sen. Robyn Kennedy — spoke along with Select Board member Kristen Wixted.

“From the battlefields of Lexington and Concord to the Civil War to a multitude of theaters around the world, our history has been made possible because of the brave men and women who have fought for our freedom and the rights that we enjoy today,” said Kennedy.

Wixted said she was the Select Board’s speaker as her husband, Jack, is a retired Army officer. Although they were not married while he was on active duty, the Wixteds were married and had children while he served with the Army National

Guard.

Wixted spoke to the fact that Northborough is a Purple Heart Community, which honors military personnel who were either wounded or killed in combat. The town qualifies most recently following the passing of Spc. Brian K. Arsenault, though Wixted also noted the passing of Maj. Andrew Olmsted, PFC David McAfee and PFC Neil Ellsworth.

“These people aren’t just a name, rank and serial number, especially to their family. They had lives and friends and, most of all, families that loved them,” Wixted said.

The men signed up to serve their country, knowing that they may not make it home, she said.

“Northborough appreciates them and others who served our country bravely and who lost their lives,” Wixted said. “Let’s not forget who they were — they were people. Let’s not also forget their families who have given this ultimate sacrifice for our country. Let’s all, to quote Abraham Lincoln, ‘resolve that they should not have died in vain.’”

Top: Members of the Select Board stand as “Taps” is played.

Bottom: The Memorial Day parade processes toward the Howard Street Cemetery.

PHOTOS/LAURA HAYES

Shrewsbury observes Memorial Day with parade

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – Several hundred community members lined Maple Avenue on May 29 as the town observed Memorial Day with an elaborate parade and several meaningful ceremonies.

The parade began at the soldiers memorial beside Town Hall. Standing in front of the memorial alongside several other town government leaders, Select Board Chair Beth Casavant delivered opening remarks.

“Let us pause this morning to recognize the sacrifice of the brave men and women from across the nation and right here in Shrewsbury who felt called to serve in our armed forces and paid the ultimate sacrifice, allowing us to enjoy the many freedoms that are easily taken for granted,” she said.

State Rep. Hannah Kane (R – Shrewsbury) also delivered remarks, presenting Maj. John

Travers, the town’s Memorial Day speaker and master of ceremonies, with a citation honoring his “distinguished service in the U.S. Army and [his] fervent commitment to honoring our active military members, veterans, and those who gave their lives in service.”

After the opening speeches, the parade moved down Maple Avenue, passing the old Maj. Howard W. Beal School and turning onto Boylston Street to the veterans memorial outside the Shrewsbury Public Library.

Along the way, dozens of residents — including many families with young children — cheered on the parade, waving at the veterans,

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proudly holding miniature American flags, and enjoying the upbeat music played by the Shrewsbury High School (SHS) band.

After the Gettysburg Address was delivered by an SHS student at the veterans memorial, Maj. Travers addressed the town, detailing what Memorial Day and service means to him.

“It is our responsibility as citizens to remember our nation’s brave fallen men and women — whether they died on foreign lands in the heat of battle or during training, or after a lifetime of service to our country. Never forget the men and women who know all too well the cost of our freedom, for their service to our country is their greatest gift,” he said.

The procession then headed to Mountain View Cemetery for a wreath-laying ceremony, a performance of “Taps,” and a benediction from Monsignor Michael Rose. After Rose, the town honored 31 local fallen military members spanning six wars.

Shrewsbury observed Memorial Day on May 29 with several ceremonies and speeches and a parade through the town center.

State Rep. Hannah Kane recognizes Maj. John Travers.

PHOTOS/EVAN WALSH

Southborough marks Memorial Day Grafton observes Memorial Day

John Minnucci, a member of the American Legion Post 161, rides during the town’s annual Memorial Day observances on Monday, May 29. He served as a radio operator with the U.S. Army during the occupation of Germany just after WWII.

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

SOUTHBOROUGH – Hundreds of flags fluttered in the breeze at the town’s cemeteries during the annual observance of Memorial Day on Monday, May 29.

“Each flag represents a veteran who once wore the uniform,” said Steve Whynot of the VFW Choate Post and the American Legion Fay Bagley Post 161. He thanked volunteers, including members of the Boy Scouts, for coming to the town’s cemeteries and replacing

more than 900 flags.

While at Rural Cemetery, Col. William Jackson, a graduate of West Point, read the names of veterans who were buried the previous year.

Observances also took place at the Old Burial Ground, Civil War Memorial and the All Wars Memorial. At each stop, there was an invocation, a gun salute and the playing of “Taps.”

Parade participants included police and fire units; the Trottier Middle School Band; local officials and veterans; and troops from the Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and Cub Scouts.

Meet Sassy

By Evan Walsh Reporter

GRAFTON – Grafton observed Memorial Day as hundreds of spectators gathered on Grafton Common to watch the parade.

Spanning from Norcross Park (Mini-Fenway) to the town common, the parade included music, military vehicles, and several veterans.

Once the parade ended, a brief ceremony took place. State Representative David Muradian, Jr. (R – Grafton) delivered remarks about Memorial Day, several community members read poems describing soldiers’ sacrifices, and an honorary gun salute was held.

Toward the end of the ceremony, the names of Grafton-based soldiers who lost their lives during World War I, World War II, and the Korean War were read.

Earlier in the day, the town held smaller ceremonies at about a dozen monuments, cemeteries, and town landmarks.

PHOTO/MAUREEN SULLIVAN

Top: A veteran waves as part of Grafton’s Memorial Day observances.

Bottom: Scouts salute during the commemoration.

PHOTOS/EVAN WALSH

Westborough commemorates Memorial Day

Preston said that Crane, who was born in Stoughton, served as a member of the 307th Airborne Medical Company within the 82nd Airborne. In 1944, Crane was inserted into Holland as part of Operation Market Garden. He later served in the Battle of the Bulge. His company also liberated a concentration camp.

“Many of Jack’s compatriots didn’t come home,” said Preston. “But it’s through Jack’s story and those of other veterans that we can better understand and appreciate what so many endured and the cost of freedom itself.”

Westborough library outdoor book sale continues through October

WESTBOROUGH – Mark your calendars for upcoming outside book sales hosted by the Friends of the Westborough Public Library.

The first outside book sale was held in May.

In addition to books, the sale features CDs, DVDs, some audiobooks and the occasional game or puzzle. According to a release from the Friends of the Westborough Public Library, there will be completely new inventory every month.

The sale will be held June 10, July 8, Aug. 12, Sept. 9 and Oct. 14.

Hardcover books are $2 each, paperbacks are $1, CDs and DVDs are two for $1 and all children’s items are $0.50.

At the end of the sale, bags are provided for $5.

Cash and checks are accepted.

On occasion, the library group welcomes other people to set up next to the book sales. For example, the local chapter of the Fishnet Crocheters of

New England will be at the June 10 sale, which is also World Wide Knit in Public Day. Proceeds from the sale fund library programs that are not covered in the town budget, such as museum passes, teen reading and study programs, children’s activities, adult guest speakers and the Screen on the Green.

Books and media donations are accepted and can be deposited in the Parkman Street entrance. VHS tapes, textbooks or books in poor condition will not be accepted.

Memorial Day | from page 1

The Memorial Day parade processes down Main Street.

Local veterans participate in the Memorial Day observances.

Westborough Public Library.

PHOTO/LAURA HAYES

PHOTOS/RENEE THOMPSON

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – What the Shrewsbury High School Mock Trial Team lacks in size, it makes up for in spirit, smarts, and savviness.

Throughout the mock trial season, the eight-member group defeated teams over double its size, becoming a top-16 program in the state of Massachusetts.

Start of the club

The team first formed two years ago, but COVID-19 stopped any hope of participating in statewide competition. Many founding team members graduated, and only four members remained heading into the new academic year. Eventually, four more students joined, and the team stood at eight members.

“We doubled in size,” Mock

Shrewsbury High School’s Mock Trial Team poses for a photograph during one of its competitions. Members include (from left to right) Timothy Scheer (adviser), Amy He, Stella Dalton, Alina Kim, Maya Welland, Tanushree Nekenti, Lilah Michaud, Pranav Bonthu, and Rayaan Abdul Rasheed.

Trial Team Vice President Pranav Bonthu joked.

Having little to no trial experience, the group faced a long road to success in the courtroom. Elaine Gordon — a Worcester-based attorney who had previously been involved as a judge in mock trial — helped guide the team through the competitions.

“[Attorney Gordon] helped us a lot,” said Maya Welland, the president of the Mock Trial

team who hopes to be a lawyer herself one day. “None of us had ever done a trial before, and this was all completely new to all of us. We needed a lot of help with understanding the laws.”

The jury was still out on the team, however. Timothy Scheer, adviser for the club and a Shrewsbury High School social science faculty member who teaches the school’s course on law, was the team’s jack of all trades. Scheer organized transportation, communicated with families and students, helped with coaching, provided motivation and ultimately led the team to success.

“Mr. Scheer pushed us in the right direction. At the beginning of the year, we were slacking — we only met once per week — but come mid-December, we really picked it up because Mr. Scheer was telling us we had to get on this,” Bonthu said.

“We were meeting every day after school,” Welland added.

Competition begins

the club new, but it was among the smallest teams in the state. Scheer noted that the team was often one student absence or COVID-19 case away from not being able to compete.

Other teams, like Franklin, were large enough that competitors could focus on one area of the case, but Shrewsbury had to be prepared for anything. Competition looks much like a regular courtroom, and competitors are tasked with memorizing affidavits, preparing for cross-examination, and various other important responsibilities. Many team members prepared for two or three different roles.

“They know exactly what they have to say, and they train for this all year. For us, we didn’t even know that we were going to do the tournament until December. You can’t be comfortable… we’re preparing for either side,” team member Rayaan Abdul Rasheed said.

an issue, it could also become an advantage and opportunity.

“I think there is a benefit to having a small team… It enabled us to work as a team so much better because there were only eight of us. We got really close, and we all knew the case so much better because we had to know so many parts of the case,” Welland said. “Other teams… knew their part, but we knew all parts.”

The Shrewsbury team, still determining where it stood in the Massachusetts Mock Trial scene, eventually defeated a Franklin squad that outmatched them in size and experience.

“We were so new to this [and] we didn’t really know how far we could push, especially against these experienced teams. Franklin, they definitely knew what they were doing, but we ended up having the better performance and won. That was a big morale boost for us,” Abdul Rasheed said.

“Our confidence really got boosted. We knew what we can really achieve now,” team member Tanushree Nekenti added.

Alina Kim, the Mock Trial Team’s treasurer, recalled the feeling in the courtroom after Shrewsbury had won.

“I started crying,” she said, “and then I went over and hugged attorney Gordon.”

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Though Shrewsbury had developed impressive judicial acumen, the team faced significant disadvantages. Not only was

“It was very hard having to memorize two roles,” team member Stella Dalton agreed.

However, many members of the team recognized that although the size of the team was

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“We came in with pretty low expectations. Obviously, when they reveal who wins, you’re not allowed to jump up and scream, so we were all trying to keep a straight face. Everyone was really excited,” Kim remembered.

“It was a top-five night in Mock Trial Team | 15

PROVIDED/MAYA WELLAND

Saint John’s headmaster to leave in 2024

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

SHREWSBURY – Headmaster of Saint John’s High School Alex Zequeira plans to depart at the end of next school year in June 2024.

“It has been an honor and privilege to serve as the Headmaster of Saint John’s High School for the past seven years,” Zequeira said in a press release.

He praised the commitment of faculty, staff and students and support from families and

alumni to create an environment where young men thrive.

“I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished together and look forward to the final 13 months of my time at the school continuing to focus on the growth and strategic vision set forth by our community,” he said.

Zequeira served as the president of Nativity School, which he helped found in 2003 serving as principal.

As part of his legacy, the school began new academic programs and spaces, renovated

and expanded the campus’ facilities, managed the pandemic, opened the Br. Robert Treanor, CFX Middle School Division and published a strategic plan from 2023 to 2028.

“We are fortunate and grateful to have had and continue to have a leader like Alex with tremendous expertise and an even-larger mission-forward outlook,” said Chair of the Board of Trustees and alumnus Christopher Creed. “Alex’s vision and dedication have propelled Saint John’s High School to new

Shrewsbury Mock Trial Team flourishes in state competition

Mock Trial Team | from page 14 my life,” Welland said. “It was like the best feeling. It was pure happiness.”

Reflecting on the season

Throughout the months of competition, the team grew closer.

“I really feel close to all of these people here. Getting to be close to the team has definitely been my favorite part — even

better than beating Franklin,” Welland said.

Scheer noted that at the first few meetings, the group sat at desks scattered throughout the room. Nowadays, the students are inseparable during meetings, sitting as close as possible to one another and sharing many memories about the past year of competition.

“We’ve all progressed so much,” Nekenti said.

Scheer and Gordon noted how special the group is.

“They really stepped up, and there was a lot of improvement. When they were challenged, they rose to the challenge… They gave as much time as they could give to this,” Scheer said.

Shrewsbury, now recognized among the state’s top programs, is garnering invitations to compete at schools throughout the state.

heights.”

Creed praised Zequeira’s passion for educational excellence and steadfast and deep commitment to developing wellrounded young men, which he

said had a “profound impact on our students.”

According to the release, the Board of Trustees will begin a nationwide search for a new head of school.

RISE Program store nears completion

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – After months of planning, the new retail store at 557 Main St. is nearing completion and will open in the near future.

The store will be run by the town’s Reaching Independence through Supported Employment (RISE) Program, which aims to provide special education students ages 18 to 22. The store, which has been named “Maple & Main,” anticipates opening at the start of the next school year. Margaret Belsito, the assistant superintendent of student services, told the Community Advocate that there will be a grand opening ceremony to celebrate.

Students will start to occupy the building as early as the start of June, and they will spend time setting up the store’s retail operation. The products that the store will sell have not been finalized, but Belsito indicated that the store may sell candy, drinks and town-related products. Maple & Main hopes to feature “pop-up shops” within the store that showcase products from other local businesses and partners.

RISE students will work at the store during school hours, but Belsito noted she anticipates the store will have “extended hours on some days to accommodate community members that may not be able to stop in during the day.”

District attorney honors Shrewsbury policemen for life-saving rescue

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – In February, four Shrewsbury police personnel — Officer Alex Desimone, Officer Dillon Zona, Officer Tyler Vlass, and Sergeant Mark Sklut — rescued a man from neck-deep mud and freezing water at Flint Pond.

The five men were reunited under much different circumstances on May 24, as the four policemen were awarded the Team Excellence and Merit (TEAM) Award by Worcester County District Attorney Joseph Early, Jr.

Justin Schmautz, a 24-yearold roadside assistance driver, and his girlfriend were operating a remote-control boat on Flint Pond in February when the vessel became stuck. When Schmautz approached the lake to retrieve the boat, he

began to sink into the quicksand-like mud.

Within minutes, Schmautz was stuck in shin-deep mud. He continued to sink, and the mud eventually reached his chest, then shoulders, then neck.

“I started seeing stars… I couldn’t breathe very well,” Schmautz said at the award

Southborough

Monday,

Marlborough

Friday, May 19

Scan QR code to read this week’s police and fire news on our website.

Siradze, 37, of 53 Cleveland, Apt. 1, Pawtucket, RI, for larceny over $1200, warrants.

Saturday, May 20

1:18 a.m. Arrested, Renato Apolinario, 46, of 45 Lakeside Ave., Apt. 22, Marlborough, for fail to stop/yield, OUI-liquor or .08%.

ceremony. “I was seeing the light pretty much at that point.”

Schmautz’s girlfriend made the 911 call, and emergency crews arrived soon after. Desimone attempted to wade through the mud to reach Schmautz at first, but crews were eventually able to utilize the ResQ Disc, a frisbee-like

Monday, May 22

1:02 a.m. Arrested, Thomas J. Constantino, 32, of 106 South St., Marlborough, on warrant.

10:45 p.m. Arrested, Justin D. Cruz, 37, unknown address, Marlborough, for true warrant, carry dangerous weapon, possess Class B drug.

Northborough

Sunday, May 21 1:40 a.m. Arrested, Johnny Flores, 34, of 460 E Boston Post Rd., Apt. B701, Marlborough, for unsafe operation of MV, op MV with license suspended, marked lanes violation.

Monday, May 22

7:49 p.m. Arrested, Ryan M. McArthur, 46, of homeless, for malicious destruc-

water rescue device, to bring Schmautz back ashore.

“Training kicked in for all of the guys that day,” Early said. “Because of their quick thinking — because of their teamwork — they were able to save a life.”

Police Chief Kevin Anderson responded to the call and saw the rescue.

“As I was pulling up… I could actually see [the] team take that man out of the water. I was never more proud to be a police officer for this town,” he said.

Schmautz called the group of first responders his “dream team.”

“You saved my life. That was one of the worst days — the scariest days — of my life. I was absolutely frozen,” he said. “I wouldn’t be here without you guys.”

According to a press release from the district attorney’s office, Early created the TEAM Award in 2019 to “recognize public safety employees who go above and beyond the call of duty.” The ceremony was held in front of Schmautz’s family and several Shrewsbury Police Department personnel at the town’s new police station.

tion of property +$1200.

Wednesday, May 24

2:10 a.m. Arrested, Joshua David Lebese, 27, of 327 South St., Northborough, for number plate violation to conceal ID, negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08%, unregistered motor vehicle, marked lanes violation.

Shrewsbury

Wednesday, May 17

7:52 p.m. Arrested, Joseph M. Wambach, 46, of 4 Evelyn St., Worcester, on warrant.

Sunday, May 21

8:12 a.m. Arrested, Lloyd B. Kennedy, 34, of 130 Lake Ave., Worcester, for oper MV with license suspended/revoke, no inspection sticker.

8:08 p.m. Arrested , Chazz Maurice Campbell, 38, of 55 Jerome St., Medford, on warrant.

Westborough

Wednesday, May 17

1:51 a.m. Arrested, Sidimohamed M. Cheikh, 23, of 42 W Baltimore St., Apt. 26, Lynn, on default warrant, speeding/ rate of speed exceeding posted limit.

2:19 a.m. Arrested, William J. Carr, 36, of 14 Deane St., Maynard, for op MV with license suspended, fail to drive in right lane, possess Class C drug, possess Class E drug (3 cts).

Friday, May 19

8:48 a.m. Arrested, Blaire C. Roberts, 30, of 76 Tacoma St., Hyde Park, on warrant.

Four officers were given awards during a ceremony on May 24. Those pictured include (left to right) Justin Schmautz, Officer Tyler Vlass, Officer Dillon Zona, Sergeant Mark Sklut, Worcester County District Attorney Joseph Early, Jr., and Shrewsbury Police Chief Kevin Anderson.

PHOTO/EVAN WALSH

GoFundMe started for resident of Upton Street fire Marlborough firefighter retires after 32-year career

with personal possessions.

Grafton Fire brought three engines, one tanker, one tower ladder, two command vehicles and one specialty unit.

A pumper drew water from nearby Silver Lake; Upton Road was closed for several hours.

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

GRAFTON – A GoFundMe page has been established for a Grafton Middle School teacher whose house was heavily damaged in a fire on Friday, May 19.

Darren Seely was at the school, where he has taught for 21 years, when he received a call that his house at 269 Upton St. was on fire.

With the assistance of neighbors and the Grafton Fire Department, the family dog, Jackson, was rescued, along

FRONT PAWS

Mutual aid was provided by fire departments from Uxbridge, Hopkinton and Shrewsbury (station coverage), and to Westborough, Sutton, Millbury, Northbridge and Hopedale (on-scene assistance).

The cause of the fire remains under investigation by Grafton Police and the Massachusetts Fire District 7 Fire Investigation Unit.

So far, nearly $28,000 has been raised to help the Seely family. For information, visit https://www.gofundme. com/f/darren-seely-rebuildfrom-house-fire

By Ron Ayotte Contributing Writer

MARLBOROUGH – Marlborough Firefighter/EMT Edmoth Matthews retired on April 23 after a 32-year career.

Matthews, who lives in Sterling with his wife Michelle, was appointed to the Marlborough Fire Department on August 21, 1989. After he graduated from the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy, Matthews was assigned as a firefighter to Group 3. He ended his career on Group 2

assigned to Tower 1.

An accomplished SCUBA diver, Matthews was a member of the Fire District 14 Regional Dive Team as well as the Fire District 8 Regional Dive Team. He also served as an Emergency Medical Technician with the Boston Disaster Medical Assistance Team.

Lieutenant Dave Cafarelli told a story about Matthews and the kind of brother firefighter he was.

“Back in 1997, I was in a motorcycle accident,” Cafarelli said. “A woman ran the red

light at Lincoln and Mechanic Streets and broadsided me. I had multiple leg fractures and was in bad shape. This guy [Ed] was on the Rescue that day and started patient care on me.

“At the end of his shift, he drove up to UMass Medical Center in Worcester and waited for me to come out of surgery and stayed at my bedside. When he was told that only family members could be in that area … Ed told security that ‘he’s my brother’… I will never forget that.”

SUPER CROSSWORD

Answers on page 20

Thomas Mellor, Robert Dolan, Stephen Krysa, David Cafarelli, Edmoth Matthews, Eric Clapper and Joseph Popek pose for a photo.

A fire on Friday, May 19, caused heavy damage to the house at 269 Upton St., near Silver Lake.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE WESTBOROUGH FIRE DEPARTMENT

PHOTO/RON AYOTTE

COMMUNITY OBITUARIES

The Community Advocate will post obituaries online (and in print, as space allows). Please send information (and a picture if desired) to tracy@communityadvocate.com. Here is a complete list of individual obituaries posted on the Community Advocate website (www. communityadvocate.com).

DEATHS

Almonte, Virginia of Southborough

Armstrong, William of Grafton Buckley, Julia formerly of Shrewsbury

Chiarvalloti, Robert of Worcester

Beland, Ronald of Hudson

Evangelou, Agapi of Shrewsbury

Fournier, Charles of Shrewsbury

Giroux, William of Marlborough

Johnson Jr., G. Herbert of Hudson

Martins, Donna formerly of Marlborough

Pearson, Phyllis of Shrewsbury

Pedjoe, Cheryl formerly of Shrewsbury

Russell, Catherine of Hudson

Simpson, Herbert of Marlborough

Wilson, Karen of Hudson

Scan QR code to read all of this week’s obituaries on our website.

Donna L. Martins, 65

WORCESTER – Donna L. (Clark) Martins, 65 of Worcester passed peacefully at St. Vincent’s Hospital surrounded by her loving family on May 11th, after a brief illness. Donna was the daughter of Robert E. Clark of Marlborough and the late Shirley (Gelina) Clark.

Donna leaves her son, Paul M. Martins of Worcester, her daughter, Melissa L. Martins and her husband Carlos Davila of Worcester, her three sisters; Susan J. Clark of New York, Patricia A. Everitt and her husband David of Westborough and Bonnie J. Rasla and her husband Ramzy of New Jersey, six grandchildren; Kaelyn, Natalie, Cristian, Aiden, Jace and Madelynne along with former husband, Mario R Martins, her cousins, nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her two brothers, Robert E. Clark Jr., and William R. Clark. Callahan, Fay & Caswell Life Celebration Home of Worcester is assisting with arrangements.

Agapi Evangelou, 91

SHREWSBURY – Agapi (Parousis) Evangelou, 91, of Shrewsbury died peacefully Wednesday, May 3rd at home surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Vavouri, Epirus, Greece daughter of Xenophone and Demetroula (Papaioanniou) Parousis and immigrated to the United States in 1959. She leaves her husband of 72 years, Ioannis Evangelou; her children, Anastasia Rudich of Shrewsbury, Fred Evangelou and his wife, Rhonda of Nashua, NH, Demetroula Dalapera and her husband, Andreas of Athens, Greece, Helen Evengelou of Shrewsbury, and Alexia Forhan and her husband, Daniel of Shrewsbury; nine grandchildren, Rhonda, Tara, Alethea, Alex, Samantha, Jonathan, Nicolette, Joanna, and Hailey; and 10 great-grandchildren.

The O’Connor Brothers Funeral Home of Worcester assisted with arrangements.

Julia M. Buckley, 84

NORTH KINGSTOWN – Julia M. Buckley, 84, of North Kingstown, passed away peacefully on April 21, 2023 at Roberts Health Centre. She was the loving wife of Richard T. “Dick” Buckley. Born in Westerly, she was the daughter of the late Louis L. Matthews and Julia (McGrath) Matthews.

She leaves her loving children, Richard F. Buckley and his wife Jo-Ann of Shrewsbury, MA and Brian M. Buckley and his wife Andrea of Warwick. She was the mother of the late Julia Schaaf and Jeanne Buckley. Cherished grandmother of Joseph Buckley of Seattle, Jessica Buckley of Amherst, NH, Colin Buckley of Boston, Austin

& Branden Buckley of Oldsmar, FL, and Kaitlyn, Katrina, and Kristen Schaaf of Concord, MA. She was the sister of the late Merton Matthews and Bernard Matthews.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Cranston-Murphy Funeral Home of Wickford.

Robert A. Chiarvalloti, 80

WORCESTER – Robert A Chiarvalloti left for his extended fishing trip with his God on May 19, 2023. He was born in Clinton MA, October 3rd, 1942, to Sylvester and Anne (Goralski) Chiaravalloti. He set sail without his wife of 58 years, E. Irene Chiarvalloti, his daughter Lisa Reynolds of IL, and his son Brian of Worcester. After 80 years of twinning, his identical twin, Richard Chiaravalloti of Millbury, is now truly “one of a kind”. Bob had a bevy of grandchildren who will miss him dearly: Jessica Maguire, Tyler Chiarvalloti and his wife Riley, Kaitlynn Chiarvalloti, John Reynolds, Anthony Chiarvalloti, Grace Reynolds, Mackenzie Chiarvalloti, Ezra Reynolds and Isabella Chiarvalloti, as well as Great Grandchildren, Luchia, Leon, Harper and Jason.

Graham Putnam & Mahoney Funeral Parlors of Worcester assisted with arrangements.

Ronald R. Beland, 84

HUDSON – Ronald R. “Ronnie” Beland, 84, of Hudson, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, May 12, 2023 at Tufts Medical Center in Boston with his family by his side. The son of the late Alfred and Eva (Rollins) Beland, Ronnie was born in Clinton, MA, on October 17, 1938.

Ronnie is survived by his wife of 63 years, Barbara A. (Bushey) Beland of Hudson, MA; his children, Lisa (Beland) Robichaud and husband John of Marlborough, MA, Tammy (Beland) DiTullio and husband

Rich of Marlborough, MA, Kim Beland of NH, and Bonnie Beland and husband Sean Hogan of Marlborough, MA; siblings, Shirley Mahar of ME, Phillip Beland of VA, David Beland of NH, and Wayne Beland of TX, as well as 6 grandsons, 5 granddaughters, 3 great grandsons, and 2 great granddaughters (1 of which is arriving in July), and many nieces and nephews He was predeceased by his son Mark P. Beland, who passed in 2016, brothers of Alfred, Ernie, Richard, Gordon; sisters Lucille Chisolm, and Edith.

The Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted with arrangements.

Catherine M. Russell, 92

HUDSON – Catherine Mary (Toner) Russell of Hudson, 92 years old, died on May 20, 2023 after a period of declining health.

Catherine was married to the late Nelson H (Dusty) Russell for 50 years. Catherine was born in Marlborough, MA, daughter of the late Thomas F and Florence (McPhee) Toner. She is survived by her daughters, Patricia C Bakos and husband Timothy, Rosemary Gummoe and husband Shawn both of Honesdale PA and son Michael C Russell and wife Lucy of Hudson. Catherine is also survived by 9 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, several cousins, nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, Catherine was predeceased by their 2 sons, Nelson and Thomas and granddaughter Catelin as well as her sister Florence Schofield and brother John Toner.

The Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.

William D. Giroux, 62

MARLBOROUGH – William D. “Bill” Giroux, 62, passed away on Saturday, May 20, 2023. Bill was born in Southbridge and raised in Northborough, the second of Joseph and Con -

stance (Cadarette) Giroux’s six children.

Bill is survived by his daughter, Caitlin F. Davis of Worcester; his two granddaughters, Wendy and Maddison Davis; his father Joseph of Northborough; his five siblings, Joseph Giroux Jr. and his wife Janet, Phillip Giroux, Kevin Giroux and his wife Joy, Keith Giroux, and Cindy Drost and her husband Jeffrey.

Hays Funeral Home of Northborough assisted with arrangements.

William F. Armstrong, 97

GRAFTON – William Frederick “Bill” Armstrong died Friday evening, May 19th, 2023a week shy of his 98th birthday - at Shrewsbury Crossing in Shrewsbury, MA, where he had lived for the past 14 months. He was predeceased by his wife, Nancy (Rice) Armstrong, in 1975 and never remarried.

In addition to his wife, he was predeceased by his parents, Stuart and Dorothy (Bickford) Armstrong, and his brothers, Richard Armstrong and John Armstrong. He is survived by his children, William F. Armstrong, III (Becky McCullough), of Falmouth, MA, Abby Armstrong of Sharon, VT, and Halley Allen (Gus) of Holden, MA as well as by his grandchildren, George Armstrong, Emma Armstrong, Sarah Allen Neidhardt (Kyle) and Elizabeth Allen (Michael Boller), and his great granddaughter, Ada Elliott Neidhardt. He is also survived by his nephew, Stuart Armstrong (Mike Levesque), and his nieces, Leslie Armstrong (Jeff Bacon) and Susan Armstrong. He also always enjoyed seeing his numerous nieces and nephews on the Rice/Gainey side of the family when he was on the Cape.

The Roney Funeral Home of North Grafton assisted with arrangements.

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PROBATE AND FAMILY COURT

LETTERS OF APPOINTMENT

(GUARDIANSHIP OF A MINOR)

Docket No. MI23P2493GD

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

The Trial Court

Middlesex

Probate and Family Court

IN RE: Guardianship of A MINOR

I, Tara E. DeCristofaro, Register of Probate for the Middlesex Probate and Family Court hereby certify that:

Jillian P. Marchetta

10A Temple Ave

Hudson, MA 01749

Was appointed or confirmed by Order of this Court dated May 10, 2023 as:

Temporary Guardian pursuant to G.L. c. 190B, § 5-204.These letters shall expire on June 15, 2023

These Letters of Guardianship for a minor are proof of the Guardian’s full authority and responsibility to act, pursuant to G.L. c. 190B, § 5-208, regarding the minor’s support, education, health and welfare as follows:

X to Perform any and all acts necessary for the day to day care, custody, education, recreation and property of the minor,

X to authorize any and all medical and dental care for the health and wellbeing of the minor, except the Guardian may Not consent to extraordinary medical treatment pursuant to G.L. c. 190B, § 5-306A

X The Guardians authority is specifically limited as follows:

X The Guardian is prohibited from permanently removing the child from the Commonwealth without an Order from the Court.

LETTERS OF APPOINTMENT (GUARDIANSHIP OF A MINOR)

Docket No. MI23P2492GD

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

The Trial Court

Middlesex

Probate and Family Court

IN RE: Guardianship of A MINOR

I, Tara E. DeCristofaro, Register of Probate for the Middlesex Probate and Family Court hereby certify that Jillian P. Marchetta

10A Temple Ave

Hudson, MA 01749

Was appointed or confirmed by Order of this Court dated May 10, 2023 as: Temporary Guardian pursuant to G.L. c. 190B, (that Double S symbol goes here) 5-204.These letters shall expire on June 15, 2023

These Letters of Guardianship for a minor are proof of the Guardian’s full authority and responsibility to act, pursuant to G.L. c. 190B, § 5-208, regarding the minor’s support, education, health and welfare as follows:

X to Perform any and all acts necessary for the day to day care, custody, education, recreation and property of the minor,

X to authorize any and all medical and dental care for the health and wellbeing of the minor, except the Guardian may Not consent to extraordinary medical treatment pursuant to G.L. c. 190B, § 5-306A

X The Guardians authority is specifically limited as follows:

X The Guardian is prohibited from permanently removing the child from the Commonwealth without an Order from the Court.

INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE

Docket No. WO23P1677EA

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

The Trial Court Worcester Division

Probate and Family Court

Estate of: Norma L. Lasorsa

Date of Death: February 3, 2023

To all persons interested in the above captioned estate, by Petition of Petitioner Stephen J. Lasorsa Tampa, FL. A Will has been admitted to informal probate.

The estate is being administered under informal procedure by the Personal Representative under the Massachusetts Uniform Probate Code without supervision by the Court. Inventory and accounts are not required to be filed with the Court, but interested parties are entitled to notice regarding the administration from the Personal Representative and can petition the Court in any matter relating to the estate, including distribution of assets and expenses of administration. Interested parties are entitled to petition the Court to institute formal proceedings and to obtain orders terminating or restricting the powers of Personal Representatives appointed under informal procedure. A copy of the Petition and Will, if any, can be obtained from the Petitioner.

SHREWSBURY

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that Neles Controls Inc, of 42-44 Bowditch Drive, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, has applied to the Select Board for a Storage Tank License for the storage of 10,014 gallons of Liquid Hydrogen in a vacuum insulated tank at the location of 42-44 Bowditch Drive for Valmet Flow Control, Inc.

A public hearing on this application will be held on Tuesday, June 27, 2023 at 7:05 PM, Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, Selectmen’s Meeting Room, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury 01545.

Beth N. Casavant Chair

NOTICE OF INVITATION FOR PROPOSALS

Sealed proposals are requested by Shrewsbury Electric and Cable Operations (SELCO) for the purchase of TWO (2) NEW F450 TRUCK, 16,500 LBS GVWR, UTILITY BODY WITH 40FT. TELESCOPIC BOOM EQUIPMENT for SELCO’s Cable Department.

Specifications may be obtained by emailing Taryn Maddocks at tmaddocks@shrewsburyma.gov

Questions regarding proposals or specifications shall be answered by emailing Taryn Maddocks at tmaddocks@shrewsburyma.gov

All proposals shall be sealed and appropriately marked “SELCO-CATV Truck Bid.”

Proposals will be received in Person at the Town Manger’s office OR in the drop box labelled “Town Bids”, located at the front of the Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury until 11:30 AM, Tuesday, June 20, 2023 at which time and place they will be publicly opened and read.

SELCO specifically reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive irregularities or informalities in all bids, and to accept any bid that is deemed to be in the best interest of SELCO.

NOTICE OF INVITATION TO BID FOR PAD MOUNT TRANSFORMERS

Shrewsbury Electric and Cable Operations (“SELCO”) seeks proposals for the purchase of various Pad mount Transformers of various sizes.

A copy of the procurement documents, a list of the equipment, materials and supplies that SELCO seeks to purchase may be obtained by contacting: Tmaddocks@shrewsburyma.gov .

All bids shall be sealed and appropriately marked “Pad mount Transformers Bid”

Bids will be received in Person at the Town Manger’s office OR in the drop box labelled “Town Bids”, located at the front of the Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury until 11:00 AM, Wednesday, June 28, 2023 at which time and place they will be publicly opened and read. Proposals may not be withdrawn after the submission deadline and shall remain valid and binding for a period of sixty (60) days, Saturdays, Sundays and legal holidays excluded.

SELCO reserves the right to reject any and all proposals, waive informali-

Do you need to publish

ties, modify the supply list, negotiate price and contract terms, and award the contract, in whole or in part, as it deems to be in its best interest.

Shrewsbury electric and cable operations

Christopher Roy, General Manager

OFFICE OF THE ENGINEERING DIVISION COUNCIL ON AGING –PATIO INSTALLTION 2023

In accordance with M.G.L. c.30 § 39M the Town of Shrewsbury is seeking quotations from qualified companies to provide labor and materials for the installation of a patio at the Town of Shrewsbury Council on Aging. Specifications are available at the Town of Shrewsbury Department of Public Works, Engineering Division, 100 Maple Ave., 2nd Floor, Shrewsbury MA 01545, Monday through Friday. Potential vendors are encouraged to download a copy of the specification at the Town’s website: www.shrewsburyma.gov/bids

Quotations must be mailed to the Office of the Town Manager, Town of Shrewsbury, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA by 11:00 AM on June 30, 2023 and the work shall be completed by August 30, 2023. Prevailing wages apply to this project.

LEGAL NOTIC ES?

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SpecialPermittotheShrewsburyZoning lawSectionIVtoconstructanaddition

HUDSON

___________________________ NOTICEOFPUBLICHEARING Petition#2023-04 NoticeisherebygivenofaPublicHearingtobe heldbytheHudsonZoningBoardofAppealson Thursday,March9,2023at7:00p.m.Pursuant totheChapter20oftheActsof2021Suspending CertainProvisionsoftheOpenMeetingLaw,G.L. c.30A,§18,thismeetingoftheHudsonZoning Board ofAppeals will be conducted via remote participation.

AtthistimetheBoardofAppealswillhearthe requestofRKRealtyAssociation,LLCtoobtain a variance from Section 6.2.2.1 of the Hudson ZoningBy-lawstoallowfortheconstructionofa free-standingbankATMwithinthefrontsetback. Thesubjectpropertyislocatedat197-205WashingtonStreetintheC-11CommercialZoningDistrict.TheBoardmayconsideranyactiondeemed necessaryrelativetothesubjectpetition. Allpetitionmaterialsareavailableforreviewin theTownClerk’sOfficeduringregularbusiness hours,ontheTownofHudsonwebsiteathttp:// go.boarddocs.com/ma/hudsonma/Board.nsf/ goto?open&id=CNULAU558CDA and can be requestedbycalling(978)562-2989orbysending anemailtokjohnson@townofhudson.org

BYPUBLICATIONAND MAILING CommonwealthofMassachusetts TheTrialCourt ProbateandFamilyCourt DocketNo.PL22D0148DR  PlymouthMichelleLinnvs.MatthewLinnProbateandFamilyCourt52OberyStreet,Suite1130 Plymouth,MA02360 TotheDefendant: ThePlaintiffhasfiledaComplaintforDivorce

requestingthattheCourtgrantadivorceforUtterDesertion,Custody,ChildSupport&to sign overthepropertyof627AuburnSt.Whitman MAtoMichelleLinn.Thecomplaintisonfileat

MattRussell,Clerk HudsonZoningBoardofAppeals ___________________________ NOTICEOFPUBLICHEARING Petition#2023-02 NoticeisherebygivenofaPublicHearingtobe heldbytheHudsonZoningBoardofAppealson Thursday,March9,2023at7:00p.m.Pursuant totheChapter20oftheActsof2021Suspending CertainProvisionsoftheOpenMeetingLaw,G.L. c.30A,§18,thismeetingoftheHudsonZoning Board ofAppeals will be conducted via remote participation.AtthistimetheBoardofAppealswillhearthe requestofWanderleyandMarellenDePaulare questing a Special Permit pursuant to Section

You are hereby summoned and required to

serveupon: MichelleLinn 627AuburnSt. Whitman,MA02382 Youranswer,ifany,onorbefore03/06/2023. Ifyoufailtodoso,thecourtwillproceedtothe hearingandadjudicationofthisaction.Youare requiredtofileacopyofyouranswer,ifany,in theofficeoftheRegisterofthisCourt. WITNESS,Hon.EdwardG.Boyle,First JusticeofthisCourt

Date:January4,2023 MatthewJ.McDonough RegisterofProbate ___________________________ INFORMALPROBATE PUBLICATIONNOTICE CommonwealthDocketNo.MI23P0496EAofMassachusettsTheTrialCourt

(i) to convert an existing single-family dwellingintoatwo-familydwelling.Thesubject propertyislocatedat20OldBoltonRoadinthe

heldbytheHudsonZoningBoardofAppealson Thursday,March9,2023at7:00p.m.Pursuant totheChapter20oftheActsof2021Suspending CertainProvisionsoftheOpenMeetingLaw,G.L. c.30A,§18,thismeetingoftheHudsonZoning Board ofAppeals will be conducted via remote participation.AtthistimetheBoardofAppealswillheartherequestofMostNobleLLCtoamendaSpecialPermitissuedonMay14,2015toconstructa14,000 squarefoot,singlestoryexpansiontotheexisting 18,000squarefootbuildingpursuanttoSection 3.3.10.1 of the Hudson Zoning By-laws (WatershedProtectionDistrict)andavariancefrom Section6.2.1.3oftheHudsonZoningBy-lawsfor thereductionintheminimumopenspacerequirement.Thesubjectpropertyislocatedat569Main StreetintheM-6IndustrialDistrict),Assessors’ Map35Parcels36.TheBoardmayconsiderany actiondeemednecessaryrelativetothesubject petition.Allpetitionmaterialsareavailableforreviewin theTownClerk’sOfficeduringregularbusiness hours,ontheTownofHudsonwebsiteathttp:// go.boarddocs.com/ma/hudsonma/Board.nsf/ goto?open&id=CNUL8Z5564CA and can be requestedbycalling(978)562-2989orbysending anemailtokjohnson@townofhudson.org MattRussell,Clerk HudsonZoningBoardofAppeals ___________________________ NORTHBOROUGH ___________________________ PUBLICHEARINGNOTICE NorthboroughPlanningBoard InaccordancewiththeprovisionsofMGLChapter 40A,Section9,theNorthboroughPlanningBoard willholdapublichearingonMarch7,2023at 6:05pmtoconsidertheapplicationforSitePlan ApprovalandSpecialPermitperGroundwaterProtectionOverlayDistrictBylawsubmittedbyHosokawaAlpineAmerican,Inc.fortheproposedadditionof4,500squarefeetofwarehousespaceand associatedimprovementsforthepropertylocated at455WhitneyStreet,Map15,Parcel13inthe IndustrialZoningDistrictandintheGroundwater ProtectionOverlayDistrictArea3.Thisapplication andplansareonfileattheTownClerk’soffice, PlanningofficeandmaybeviewedonthePlanningDepartmentwebpageathttps://www.town. northborough.ma.us/planning-department/pages/ projects-under-review-planning-board PursuanttoChapter20oftheActsof2021,An ActRelativetoExtendingCertainCOVID-19Measures Adopted During the State of Emergency, signedintolawonJune16,2021,asamended byChapter22oftheActsof2022,thismeeting willbeconductedviaremoteparticipation.  No in-personattendancebymembersofthepublic willbepermitted.ToparticipateinthepubliccommentportionsofthismeetingfromaPC,Mac, iPad,iPhoneorAndroiddevice,pleaseclickthis URL to join: zoom.us/j/82546102224https://town-northborough-ma-us. Passcode: 155770 Or Telephone:301-715-8592WebinarID:8254610 2224Passcode:155770KerriMartinek,Chairman ___________________________ PUBLICHEARINGNOTICE NorthboroughZoningBoard ofAppeals InaccordancewiththeprovisionsofMGLChapter 40A,Section9,theNorthboroughZoningBoard ofAppealswillholdpublichearingsonTuesday, February 28,2023 at 7pm

ProbateMiddlesexDivisionandFamilyCourt

SHREWSBURYPLANNING JosephA.Thomas, ____________________________ LEGAL TheShrewsburyPlanning hearingonThursday, theBentPresentation School,64Holden ofUnitedStates sonBlvd.,Suite PlanApproval; additionalparking TownofShrewsbury asshownon Improvements,” ber2,2022, Worcester Norman at295part0090000. Ament SHREWSBURY,MAFebruary27,2023 6:30PMToheartheappealofChrisandRachelMor rison, 245 Maple Ave, Shrewsbury MA

the

to

Estateof:JoanneN.Cunningham

Toallpersonsinterestedintheabovecaptioned estatebyPetitionofPetitionerDianneS.DiMatteoofMarlborough,MAAWillhasbeenadmittedtoinformalprobate. Dianne S.DiMatteo of Marlborough,MA has beeninformallyappointedasthePersonalRepresentativeoftheestatetoservewithoutsurety onthebond.TheestateisbeingadministeredunderinformalprocedurebythePersonalRepresentative undertheMassachusettsUniformProbateCode withoutsupervisionbytheCourt.Inventoryand accountsarenotrequiredtobefiledwiththe Court,butinterestedpartiesareentitledtonoticeregardingtheadministrationfromthePersonalRepresentativeandcanpetitiontheCourt inanymatterrelatingtotheestate,including distributionofassetsandexpensesofadministration.Interestedpartiesareentitledtopetition theCourttoinstituteformalproceedingsand toobtainordersterminatingorrestrictingthe powersofPersonalRepresentativesappointed underinformalprocedure.

DateofDeath:March14,2022

Or

___________________________

Couples take center stage at B.

By Kathryn Acciari Contributing Writer

WESTBOROUGH–Daniel Krikorian and business partner James Toohey started B. Remembered, a professional wedding services company, at the height of the pandemic. Krikorian had been producing commercials, and when the pandemic hit, his clients shut down. A bride found his website and asked him to shoot her wedding, and by the end of 2020 he and Toohey had been hired for 147 weddings.

“We intuitively provided concierge service and wound up with five-star reviews. This opened a flood of requests,” said Krikorian.

Krikorian believes the early success of B. Remembered is founded in the simple philosophy of servicing the customer, particularly the bride.

Krikorian was raised by entrepreneurial parents. His father runs an auto body shop, and

his mother is a financial guru. Growing up in that environment gives Krikorian a unique vantage point.

“My expertise is a confluence of marketing, psychology, and economics applied to the wedding industry. Couples want two things on their wedding day: security and quality,” said Krikorian. “We provide them the security of knowing that we are going to show up and make their wedding day truly special. We take the stress off the shoul-

ders of the couple.”

“The wedding business is based on emotion and not economics, and typically, wedding providers are artists rather than business people,” said Krikorian.“We recognized immediately that we had to be couple-centric, not ego driven. We needed to make the couple happy.”

Krikorian and Toohey did research and found that wedding service providers were not trained on providing customer

service. That opened the door for their second business of training wedding professionals how to succeed at a wedding.

“We have created a model that works well in the gig economy: wedding professionals are trained and certified by us and then have access to our equipment and systems. This saves them from having to use their own equipment or manage business operations,” said Krikorian. “We also train professionals for handling obstacles that might happen on a wedding day. Every wedding serviced by B. Remembered is provided by a local, trained professional using high-quality equipment. The wedding professionals save on their costs, and the couples are guaranteed a magnificent experience.”

B. Remembered offers full wedding planning services, coordination, entertainment, photography, videography, photo booth, makeup and more,

all together in one convenient place.

“Our services are accessible because we have systemized them, and this allows us to drive down pricing. We serve as a wedding hub, so the couple only has to deal with one company, not fifteen different vendors. We’re perfect for busy couples in any economy,” said Krikorian. Demand for B. Remembered’s services continues to grow, and Krikorian credits the early success of B. Remembered to one factor:

“To be successful in business, you have to listen first. We have had early success just by treating people right.”

Visit B. Remembered at brememberedweddings.com/ or call (508) 625-7142 to schedule a wedding consultation.

Business Profiles are advertising features designed to provide information and background about Community Advocate advertisers.

The team driving the wedding revolution at B. Remembered.

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – Thanks to Emily Hamann, you can “Skate

Like a Girl” this summer.

Hamann, a Marlborough resident and junior at the Williston Northampton School, will be offering a summer hockey clinic for local girls ages 5-12 starting Tuesday, June 13, at NorthStar Ice Sports in Westborough.

This is the third year Hamann will be offering the clinic, which will include an all-girl coaching staff and what she called a “fun and welcoming environment.”

“My main priority is to create a space where girls learn to love hockey … it’s a summer program so that girls can be ready for the fall,” she said.

Hamann started the clinic because when she began playing hockey, she was often the only girl, and not “one of the boys.”

“They weren’t mean or anything, but I would be off in a corner of the locker room,” said Hamann.

A hockey player since the age of 8, Hamann has already collected a bevy of accomplishments. They include an invitation to the USA Hockey National Development Camp

the last two years and being a part of Williston Northampton’s hockey team that has won two straight NEPSAC elite championships.

She started up the clinic in the summer of 2020, and had no problem recruiting help from fellow girl hockey players.

“They are so willing to be the role models for the girls,” she said.

The clinic will run for eight weeks on Tuesdays from 5:106:10 p.m. The fee for both clinics (beginner and intermediate)

will be $275.

Hamann has started a small business, Skate Like a Girl LLC, with help from her father, Greg, with an eye toward expansion.

She also has an eye toward college, having committed to Harvard University after she finishes at Williston Northampton. Hamann said she’d like to major in neuroscience because “I’m such a math and science person” interested in learning “how the brain behaves.”

For information on the clinic, email skatelikeagirlclinic@ gmail.com.

Girls aged 5 to 12 can learn the fundamentals of hockey at the Skate Like a Girl camp this summer.

Marlborough resident Emily Hamann will once again offer a special summer hockey camp for girls ages 5-12.

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – A group of four Shrewsbury seniors was at their best on April 29, breaking the school’s 4x800-meter relay record and placing first at the 2023 District E Division 1 Relay Meet.

Chase Orciuch, Declan Daley, Jonathan Shan and Niko Manolakos ran the relay in 8 minutes, 15.04 seconds, beating the school’s previous 2015 record by just under one second.

“It felt amazing — it’s something that you look forward to for months,” Orciuch told the Community Advocate. “It’s something that we really wanted to do. To finally break the school record felt very good.”

“It was pretty crazy,” Shan said. The race marked his first competitive 4x800-meter relay in almost a year.

“To be able to hop in and get the record — I thought that was pretty cool,” said Shan.

For Manolakos, the race was extra special. The group broke the record on his birthday.

“It was a long time coming. I feel like all the hard work really paid off, and that was really exciting,” he said. “It was awesome. It was great. It was very memorable.”

Although the group broke the record, Daley explained that the team was left in suspense immediately after the race.

“When Niko came across the line and the race was over we had the hand time at around 8:14 [or] 8:15. We know it was close, but we didn’t know if we

got it. So, in that five minutes there was a lot of suspense waiting for the official time,” he said.

The team had been working on breaking the record for several months.

“From the beginning of the season — the beginning of the summer, really — we were looking at this record as one we could break… We’ve really

been working toward it, so it was really great to finally come together,” Daley said.

On May 27, shortly before the Community Advocate went to print, the group beat its own record at the MIAA Division 1 Outdoor Track & Field Championship. The team shaved nearly five seconds off their previous record with their new 8:10.17 time.

PHOTO/COURTESY OF DECLAN DALEY

Chase Orciuch, Declan Daley, Jonathan Shan and Niko Manolakos broke the school record.

“ It’s something that we really wanted to do. To finally break the school record felt very good.

Chase Orciuch