Shrewsbury student earns perfect score on SAT Shrewsbury | 10
Westborough offers a sweet time for trickor-treaters Westborough | 14
Westborough notches doubleovertime victory over Panthers Marlborough | 27
100% local content
100% FREE
Locally owned and operated since 1974
Your community. Your news. Your paper. Shrewsbury · Westborough · Northborough · Southborough · Marlborough · Hudson · Grafton
Vol. 49 | No. 49 | November 3, 2023
Shrewsbury eyes tax rate of $12.39 By Evan Walsh Reporter SHREWSBURY – The Select Board held its tax classification hearing on Oct. 24. During the hearing, the board adopted a tax rate of $12.39 for fiscal 2024. According to a presentation by Principal Assessor Ruth Anderson, the average bill for singlefamily households in Shrewsbury is expected to be $8,268.05. The average single-family bill will increase by $471.40, or 6.05% over last year. “Like previous years, our average singlefamily home value [was] right near the top of the list, but our tax rate and average single-family tax bill were the lowest,” said Anderson. According to her presentation, the average single-family tax bill in 2023 in Grafton was $7,980, $8,575 in Northborough and $11,059 in Westborough. According to the presentation to the Select Board, the increased tax rate is driven by the increasing value of property in town. Singlefamily homes in Shrewsbury have increased in value by an average of $73,000 since last year. Overall values in Shrewsbury have increased by $2.2 billion since 2021. The Select Board also voted to maintain the town’s single tax rate. The board had the opportunity to adopt a “split tax rate”, which would have had commercial businesses in town pay more of the tax levy. Under a single tax rate, residential and commercial properties will pay the same tax rate. The Select Board also rejected two possible tax exemptions. The town could have granted an exemption of “up to 35% of the assessed value of residential Tax rate | 5
Halloween fun at trunk or treat By Laura Hayes Managing Editor SOUTHBOROUGH – Kids came out in force to show off their Halloween costumes at the trunk or treat on Oct. 28. The event was presented by the Southborough Recreation Department and Southborough Fire Association. That afternoon, kids lined up in front of Woodward School to parade to the Public Safety Building, dressed in their best Little Mermaid, Paw Patrol and Beetlejuice costumes. After the parade through the building, the kids returned to Woodward to participate in a trunk or treat featuring Southborough government offices, organizations and nonprofits. In a post on Facebook after the event, the recreation department said the event was its largest and best trunk or treat to date. “A huge thank you to everyone who came out this afternoon! A beautiful day to spend with our community,” the department wrote.
Think pink! Southborough Youth and Family Services donned their Barbie best for this year’s trunk or treat on Oct. 28.
ARPA funds OK’d for library resource guide reprint, consultant By Laura Hayes Managing Editor NORTHBOROUGH – A request from the Northborough Free Library for American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to reprint the Northborough Community Resource Guide and hire a consultant was approved by the Select Board 4-1 on Oct. 23. Select Board Chair Mitch Cohen and mem-
bers Laura Ziton, Kristen Wixted and Julianne Hirsh voted in favor while member Lisa Maselli voted against the two requests. What was requested Library Director Jenn Bruneau first appeared before the Select Board in September requesting $27,000 in ARPA funds. ARPA | 6
Proudly serving you since 1996
All Types of Home Repair & Remodeling Odd Jobs, Maintenance & Much More!
W E’R E H I R I N G!
www.mrhandyman.com
(508) 366-3690 Licensed Bonded Insured MA CS #107504 | MA HIC #146014
PHOTO/LAURA HAYES
2 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 3, 2023
Over 200 craft beers in stock Over 100 RTD cocktails in stock Largest selection of Beer, Wine & Spirit in the area and best prices.
Wine Case Discount 20% off 12+ bottles 750ml
(mix & match, excludes sale items)
Fall Harvest Sale
10% off case of 6 1.5L & 3L box wine (full case)
Mention this ad and be entered to win a $50 Gift Card to Longhorn Steakhouse
Liquors
Ketel one (Reg) 1.75L .............................$29.99 Gregy Goose 1L(reg) 1.75L .......................$29.99 Svedka Vodka (reg) 1.75L ..........................$17.99 Pinnacle Vodka 1.75L .............................. $15.99 Platinum 7X 1.75L.................................... $12.99 Jameson 1.75L........................................ $47.99 Tullamore dew 1.75L ...............................$45.99 Jack Daniels 1.75L (Black) .......................$41.99 Macallan 12 DBL Cask 750ml ..................$64.99 Dewars White 1.75L ................................$29.99 Johnnie Walker Black 1.75L ....................$59.99 Basil Hayden 750ml ................................$34.99 Elijah Craig SM Batch 750ml ...................$24.99 Evan Williams Black 1.75 ........................$24.99 Jim Beam 1.75L ...................................... $27.99 Crown Royal Delux 1.75L .........................$43.99 Seagrams VO 1.75L ................................. $21.99 Patron 750ml .........................................$43.99 1800 Silver 1.75L .....................................$39.99 Casamigos Blanco 750ml .......................$39.99 Jose Cuervo Gold/Silver 1.75L ................$32.99 Bombay Sapphire 1.75L ..........................$34.99 Tanqueray 1.75L .....................................$33.99
Hendricks 1.75L .....................................$59.99 Captain Morgan Original 1.75L ................$22.99 Bacardi Gold/Silver 1.75L .......................$20.99 Malibu Rum 1.75L ...................................$22.99 Hennessy Vs 750ml ................................$39.99 Baileys Original 750ml ............................$24.99 Kahlua 750ml .........................................$22.99 Fultons Harvest Pumpkin 750ml ............. $12.99
Bogle Wines 750ml ...................................$9.97 Roscato wines 750ml ...............................$9.97 Veuve Cliquot 750ml ............................... $59.97 Taittinger Brut 750ml...............................$51.97 La Marca Prosecco 750ml ........................$15.97 Andre Sparkling 750ml ............................. $7.97 Angeline Pinot Noir 750ml ....................... $11.97 Line 39 Pinot Noir 750ml ..........................$9.97
Wines
Beer
Cavit 1.5L ................................................ $11.99 Woodbridge 1.5L ..................................... $11.99 Mark West Pinot Noir 1.5L ....................... $19.99 Mezzacorona Pinot Grigio 1.5L ................. $11.99 Sutter Home 1.5L .....................................$8.97 Bota box 3L .............................................$17.99 Black box 3L ...........................................$17.99 Louis Martini Sonoma Cab .......................$16.97 Hess Select Cab Sauv 750ml ...................$15.97 Meiomi Pinot Noir ...................................$16.97 Whitehaven Sauv Blanc 750ml .................$15.97 William Hill Chard 750ml .......................... $11.97 Oysterbay Sauv Blanc 750ml ................... $10.97 Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio 750ml .......$19.97 Bread & Butter Cab and P Noir .................$12.97
Coors Miller 36pk ................................. $28.99+ Miller Highlife 30pk ..............................$20.99+ Busch 30pk ...........................................$21.99+ Heineken 24pk ..................................... $26.99+ Corona 24pk ........................................ $28.99+ Modelo 24pk ........................................ $28.99+ Stella 24pk ........................................... $27.99+ Sam Adams 12pk................................... $ 16.99+ White claw 12pk ....................................$15.99+ Truly 12pk ..............................................$15.99+ Founders 15pk .......................................$15.99+ Kona Big Wave 12pk ..............................$15.99+ Hudson North Pumpkin 6pack ................$9.99+ Stateside/Surfside RTD 8pack ................$17.99 Prices good through 11/24/23
193 Boston Post Road West • Marlborough 508-251-1452 • Open daily: 9 am – 9 pm • Sundays: 10 am – 7 pm
DREAM YOUR KITCHEN 5
HHHHH on Google
Over 30 Years in Business Serving Central MA & Beyond.
FREE CONSULTATION, ESTIMATES & DESIGN.
508.303.8100
150 CORDAVILLE RD, SUITE 100, SOUTHBOROUGH • www.ashlandcabinetkitchens.com BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 3, 2023 • 3
COMMUNITY VOICES I
hope you will support Samantha Perlman for our next Mayor of Marlborough. She is an exceptional candidate and presents our residents with an opportunity that we should not pass by. Samantha has the experience, energy, and intellect to lead. As Councilor at Large she always answered my phone calls, and listened carefully about what I had to say. Her educational background and work experience is amazing. Soon she will have a law degree from Boston College and will graduate from Tufts University with a major in Urban Planning and Policy. She also attended the prestigious Emory College and Marlborough Public Schools. Her work experience includes service in a non profit where she helped pass a law to promote Civics Education in our
letters to the editor
letters to the editor
Arthur Skura Marlborough ***************************
police & fire................... 19 classifieds..................... 20 obituaries...................... 21
David Bagdon
MANAGING EDITOR: Laura Hayes ASSISTANT EDITOR: Maureen Sullivan PROJECT EDITOR: Brett Peruzzi REPORTER: Evan Walsh EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: Debra Roberts
LEGAL & CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING:
ast year, I moved from Newton to senior housing in Marlborough. Before I left Newton, four prominent local officials, urged me to introduce myself to a young Marlborough City Councilor named Samantha Perlman. They got to work with Samantha during leadership training programs sponsored by various statewide organizations. They had nothing but high praise for Sam’s professional and organizational skills, personal credibility, infectious optimism and her capacity to lead positively, clearly and effectively. I joined Sam’s mayoral campaign this past summer. I can attest that everything the four Newton officials told me about Sam is true. She will be an outstanding mayor. Sam’s positive vision for Marlborough and the optimistic, down to earth ways she presents factual proposals to voters is a perfect antidote to all the poison that is consuming so much of our political
Letters must be signed with a name, address and telephone number for verification (only name and town will be printed). Letters should be sent to news@communityadvocate.com or mailed to Managing Editor c/o Community Advocate, 32 South St. Westborough MA 01581. The editor reserves the right to reject letters on the basis of length, libelous content, suitability and space constraints. Multiple letters from the same person will not be accepted within a 30 day period. “Form letter” submissions, in which the content of one letter is essentially duplicated, will not be accepted. Letters should be 350 words or less. Deadline is 12 p.m. Friday the week before publication. Opinions expressed in the letters to the editor do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Community Advocate management or its advertisers.
ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: 508.930.9022
ADVERTISING DEPT:
L
life. Still, I have faith that Samantha’s way of doing things is what a clear majority of voters in Marlborough really want. Bob Burke New Horizons Marlborough ***************************
I
would like to offer a few words in support of Samantha Perlman for Mayor. I admire the leadership she has provided on the City Council for the past four years. I believe her experience as a Councilor-at-large, advocating for all wards in the city, gives her an excellent base to hit the ground running on day one as Mayor. The partnerships she has forged with both state and federal legislators will be a great asset for getting new funding for city projects. I like Samantha’s idea to hire a city planner to help manage our growth in a sustainable way and to make changes that will
both protect the environment and save money while doing so. I appreciate Samantha’s steady communication with city residents and her accessibility and visibility both in person and online, not only during political campaigns, but also throughout the rest of her term. In particular, she was receptive to an issue I brought to her attention and she took appropriate action on it. Samantha has demonstrated a tremendous capacity for working hard by being an effective and persuasive leader on the City Council while at the same time pursuing both a law degree at Boston College and studying urban and environmental policy and planning at Tufts University. For all these reasons, I believe that Samantha Perlman is the kind of leader that Marlborough needs today. Howard Boles Marlborough ***************************
The Community Advocate’s Policy on Letters to the Editor
news............................... 4 schools.......................... 10 homes & more............... 16
PUBLISHER/EDITOR:
public Schools. Samantha has been endorsed by the Environmental League of Massachusetts, and has formed partnerships with state and federal legislators. This candidate cares about our seniors, will listen carefully to their needs, and will make homes and city affordable. With her unique skills and experience in government policy, finance, and city planning, Marlborough will be a flourishing city. She has been visiting every ward in our city, often going house to house campaigning and keeping closely in touch with business leaders and our young people. I know Samantha and I can recognize talent when I see it. Right now she needs your support. Vote on November 7th. Let’s make Samantha Perlman our next mayor.
Diane Sabatini | 508.366.5500 Cynthia Merchant | 508.736.4332 Mary Ellen Cyganiewicz | 508-366-5500 Barbara Clifford | 508-769-6259
legal notices.................. 22 business........................ 24 sports............................ 27
Ryan Maloney, owner Scan QR code to visit us on your mobile device.
The Community Advocate is a weekly periodical, (U.S.P.S. # 014-423), published by Bagdon Advertising, Inc., with offices located at 32 South Street, Westborough, MA 01581. Periodicals postage is paid at Westborough, MA 01581 and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Please send address changes to: Community Advocate, 32 South Street, Westborough, MA 01581. Publication date is Friday. Deadline for R.O.P. advertising, local community news and classified advertising is Friday, noon, seven days prior to publication. Not liable for typographical errors, however, we will reprint that portion of the ad wherein error occurred if notified in writing within three working days of the publication date. All material included is the property of The Community Advocate and may include material produced under copyright or a syndicated ad service. Permission must be obtained in writing before reproducing any material from any issue of the Community Advocate.
32 South Street • Westborough, MA 01581
(508) 366-5500 • FAX (508) 366-2812
www.communityadvocate.com
Cynthia Merchant | 508.736.4332
TWITTER: @CommunityAdNews
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS:
Ellen Bishop Lynne Fountain
FACEBOOK.COM/CommunityAdvocateNewspaper
OFFICE MANAGER: BILLING INQUIRIES:
Tracy Nickerson Bookkeeping Dept. | ext. 19
EMAIL FOR SUBMITTING CAMERA-READY ADS: ads@communityadvocate.com EMAIL FOR NEWS-RELATED MATERIALS: news@communityadvocate.com EMAIL FOR CLASSIFIED ADS: classified@communityadvocate.com EMAIL FOR CALENDAR ITEMS: calendar@communityadvocate.com
Whiskey Finishing
F
inishing in whiskey production is a critical and intricate phase in crafting this spirit. After the initial distillation process, the raw whiskey embarks on a transformative journey within wooden barrels. These barrels, often made from casks used to mature sherry, play a pivotal role in shaping the whiskey’s character and flavor profile. During this period, which can span several years, the whiskey interacts with the wood, absorbing compounds that impart complexity, depth, and richness to its taste. This aging process allows for the development of nuanced notes like vanilla, caramel, and oak while also mellowing out harsh, overly potent elements. The choice of barrels, their previous use, and the environmental conditions in the aging facility all influence the final product. At JULIO’S LIQUORS, our spirits department carries many hard-to-find items from single malt scotches to highend vodkas and gins. We also carry an extensive selection of wines. The Vigilant Smoke Shop is our state-of-the-art, fullservice smoke shop with a knowledgeable, well trained friendly staff to cater to all of your tobacco needs. Please call 508-3661942 for more information, or visit us at 140 Turnpike Rd., Rt. 9 East. HINT: Many kinds of casks have been used to finish whiskey, including red wine, port, Cognac, tequila, rum, coffee, and even maple syrup.
If you like our Un-cork’d article every week, check out our radio show & podcast –
It’s The Liquor Talking Live show every Saturday, 11 am on WCRN AM830
itstheliquortalking.com Or catch rebroadcasts on WCRN AM830 every weekday at 7 pm after Howie Carr! You can also pick and choose episodes on Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.
ON PAGE 5 DON’T MISS OUR AD
140 Turnpike Road, Rt. 9E, Westborough 508-366-1942 • www.JuliosLiquors.com
HOURS: MON-SAT 9am-9pm • SUN 10am-7pm
4 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 3, 2023
COMMUNITY NEWS
Select Board hears plans for Boston Two Shrewsbury officers receive Life Saving Medal Lawnmower, housing proposals By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor WESTBOROUGH – Proposals for a new home for Boston Lawnmower and for up to 40 single-family rental units came before the Select Board on Oct. 24.
PHOTO/LAURA HAYES
Boston Lawnmower plans Patrick McCarty presented plans for 0 Bridle Path at the corner of Oak Street for a new facility for Boston Lawnmower. The business is currently leasing space at 233 Turnpike Road. The facility will include 47 parking spaces, and the roof will be “EV ready,” said McCarty. Once approvals from the town are set, he said it would take about nine months to complete. “It’s great that he’s keeping the business in town,” said Select Board Chair Sean Keogh.
Boston Lawnmower is currently leasing space at 233 Turnpike Road.
which is close to the commuter rail station. Initial plans call for 18, one-bedroom rental units, about 650 square feet each. An expansion would eventually add 22 more rental units, for a total of 40. Eight units would be deemed affordable. The units would be partially electric. The Select Board will send its comments for both projects to the Planning Board.
PHOTO/COURTESY SHREWSBURY POLICE DEPARTMENT
SHREWSBURY – Two members of the Shrewsbury Police Department were recently awarded the Life Saving Medal by the Massachusetts Police Association. On Sept. 22, 2021, Shrewsbury Sgt. Matthew Caola and Officer Shawn Valliere responded following a call that a 1-year-old girl wasn’t breathing. “Upon arrival, these officers immediately began lifesaving measures, including CPR and rescue breathing,” the Shrewsbury Police Department wrote in a press release. Worcester EMS paramedics and Shrewsbury firefighters transported her to the hospital. The baby survived. An emergency room physician credited Caola and Valliere’s actions for saving her life. “The Shrewsbury Police Department would like to commend Sgt. Caola and Ofc. Valliere for their lifesaving actions, their professionalism and their commitment to serving our great community,” the department wrote. The pair were honored during an awards ceremony at the 123rd Massachusetts Police Association Convention in Springfield on Oct. 19.
BLACK NOVEMBER Meet Cooper BLACK NOVEMBER BLACK NOVEMBER
134 Fisher St. Richard Record, who’s owned the property at 134 Fisher St. since 2001, wants to develop the three-acre site,
Shrewsbury Sergeant Matthew Caola and Officer Shawn Valliere recently received the Life Saving Medal.
LOWEST PRICES OF THE YEAR - 100’s OF DEALS & REBATES!
LOWEST PRICES OF THE YEAR - 100’s OF DEALS & REBATES! SNOW IS SNOW IS Cooper is as loyal as he is COMING! handsome. This big boy is COMING! affectionate, housetrained, and LOWEST PRICES OF THE YEAR - 100’s OF DEALS & REBATES! looking for a person to call his own. Available at: Buddy Dog Humane Society Contact: info@buddydoghs.org
5 CU. FT.
Sponsored by
ble Adopta eek the W Pet of
FULL: $299WATER
(REGULARLY $499)
ON
(REGULARLY $599)
Stephanie Bayliss Realtor ®
Helping Buyers and Sellers
$199 HEATERS$109999
50” Hisense................$279.99
INSTANT FINANCING UP TO $10,000
(single serving)
Hours: Mon. - Thur. 11am-8pm • Fri. 11am-9pm Sat. 9am-9pm • Sun 9am-8pm Breakfast on Sat. & Sun 9am
508-366-8302
149 Turnpike Rd. (Route 9W) • Westborough
SNOW COMIN
GE FRONT LOAD WASHER
WE SNOWBLOWERS! HOT SELL HOTWE $249WATER $199$329 WATER HEATERS HOTSNOWBLOWERS! 699 SELL WATER $199 SNOWBLOW $699 $1099 $469 HEATERS $699 WAS $599.99
99
FRIGIDAIRE WAS $1099.99
5 CU. FT.
99 CHEST $469
FREEZER
#GFWSSOSSNWW
99
10 CU. FT. WAS $999.99 WHIRLPOOL WECHEST HAVE THE MAYTAG FRENCH DOOR CHEST FREEZER DRYER BOTTOM FREEZER BEST PRICES ON FREEZER 99 THE 99 $899 FRIGIDAIREWE HAVE 99 99 $1599 $439 DISHWASHER $549 WAS $1099.99 20 CU. FT. WAS $2,699 WAS BEST PRICES ON$599.99 20 CU. FT.
WAS $699.99
#7150
(Regularly $549.99)
$
.99
$
.99
LG SMOOTH
Counter Depth
WAS $999.99
.99
IN STOCK!
75” Samsung....................$ (Regularly $549.99) 749.99
99
(Regularly $799.99)
WAS $799.99
99
85’’ Samsung .............. $1099.99 INSTANT FINANCING UP TO $10,000 (Regularly $1599.99)
$54900 WAS $849.99
99
99
$1399.99 65’’ Hisense ................... $399.99 85” Samsung............ WAS $1599.99 WAS $599.99 WAS $899.99 (Regularly $1599.99) (Regularly $649.99) • Sat: 9am-8pm • Sun: 12 Noon-7pm Store Hours: Mon. through Fri: 10am-9pm (Regularly $1599.99) INSTANT FINANCING UP................ TO $10,000 $399.99 55’’ Samsung INSTANT FINANCING UP TO $10,000 WHIRLPOOL MAYTAG MAYTAG (Regularly $449.99) Store Hours: Mon. DISHWASHER through Fri: 10am-9pm • Sat:DRYER 9am-8pm • Sun: 12 Noon-7pm FRENCH DOOR 75’’ Samsung ................ $749.99 Store Hours: Mon. through Fri: 10am-9pm • Sat: 9am-8pm • Sun: 12 Noon-7pm BOTTOM FREEZER #VEDC46HW #MDB4949SKZ (Regularly $799.99) (Regularly $1599.99)
PRE-ORDER HEAT & EAT THANKSGIVING DINNER!
HARRY’S RESTAURANT
20 CU. FT. CHEST FREEZER
99
(Regularly $449.99)
ORDER YOUR HOLIDAY PIES TODAY! For pick-up 11/22 11/25
WAS $1,599.99
THOUSANDS OF TOYS!
FRIGIDAIRE 99 TOP ELECTRIC FIREPITS 99 TV DEALS! STOVE 55” Hisense................ 299 WAS $299.99 WAS $599.99 99 $ KAYAKS 99 $199 99 99 99 20 CU. FT. $699 $699 65” Hisense................ 399 $699 50’’ Hisense ................... $279.99 HEATERS FRIGIDAIRE AMANA WASHER MAYTAG TOP KIDS$549.99) POOLS SAMSUNG (Regularly 55“ Samsung....................$399 Y OR DRYER SIDE-BY-SIDE FREEZER WASHER 55’’ Hisense ................... $299.99 DEHUMIDIFIERS 99 #NED4655EW 18 CU. FT. REFRIGERATOR (Regularly $549.99)
(Regularly $649.99)
(Regularly $1599.99)
WAS $299.99
FRIGIDAIRE SIDE-BY-SIDE 99 REFRIGERATOR
TV DEALS
508.523.1314
SNOW IS COMING!
GIANT TOY DEPT! WE WE HAVE WE HAVE THE THE BEST HOT SELL $899 $699 BEST PRICES ON PRICES WE HAVE THE BEST PRICES ON
WAS $899.99
10 CU. FT. CHEST FREEZER
$54999 $159999 $43999 WAS $699.99
WAS $2699
WAS $599.99
Store Hours: Mon. through Fri: 10am-9pm • Sat: 9am-8pm • Sun: AMANA LG SMOOTH TOP 12 Noon-7pm ELECTRIC STOVE GAS RANGE
MATTRESS TWIN ..... $199 (Reg $299) FULL .... $269 (Reg $499) SALE! QUEEN .....$299 (Reg $599) 508-366-8302
$699
99
WAS $999.99
#AGR1533CBAS S/S
$59999 WAS $999.99
NO CREDIT? BAD CREDIT? NEW EASY FINANCING TERMS ON EVERYTHING IN THE STORE!
TAKE-O UT WELCO S ME!
WWW.HARRYSRESTAURANT.COM
INSTANT FINANCING UP TO $10,000!
WHITCOSALES.COM
Store Hours: Mon. through Fri: 10am-9pm • Sat: 9am-8pm • Sun: 12 Noon-7pm
140 MAIN STREET SPENCER, MA
508.885.9343
COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 3, 2023 • 5
COMMUNITY NEWS
Due diligence continues at Community Center site By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor WESTBOROUGH – The next steps for the Community Center are underway. With the town entering a purchase-and-sale agreement for 1500 Union St., Town Manager Kristi Williams discussed the next phase at the Select Board’s meeting on Oct. 24. According to Williams, due diligence at the site — the current home of Boston Sports Clubs — has started. This includes inspections of the structure, pool and mechanicals. Williams said the inspec-
Shrewsbury eyes tax rate of $12.39 Tax rate | from page 1
properties that are used as the owner’s principal residence.” The exemption would’ve shifted the tax burden to higher-value homes in the community. The town also could have adopted an exemption of up to 10% for property occupied by small businesses — or businesses with less than 10 employees — valued at less than $1 million. The exemption would have shifted the tax burden to larger corporations. The tax credit would go to the owner of the property — not the business owner. “Someone who is hearing this for the first time might question why the board might choose not to grant that small business exemption,” said Select Board Chair Beth Casavant, noting that properties like Bank of America have less than 10 employees. “We’re thinking about the Shrewsbury Country Shoppe, but it would actually end up applying to the banks and other sorts of corporations, where it isn’t directly impacting the ‘small business owner’ in the way we would think of it,” she said. Anderson noted that “if you’re looking to benefit the pizza shop and the local dentist… [the tax credit] doesn’t necessarily help them unless the landlord trickles it down.” The town has not adopted either exemption in the past. Anderson provided extensive information on the town’s tax rate. To watch the Select Board’s meeting, visit https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=k3pQOHilK-c.
tions should be completed by mid-November. Should the site pass inspection, the town could move the closing date, which is currently scheduled for late March. Williams added that community engagement could begin soon; the first step would be sending out a request for proposals (RFP) for community engagement and schematic
design. For the annual Town Meeting next spring, Williams said there will be budget requests to fund the site’s utilities and maintenance, and for several positions, including a community center director and custodian. At the Fall Special Town Meeting on Oct. 16, residents approved the authorization of
the purchase-and-sale agreement, along with funding toward due diligence and community engagement. For details on the Community Center, visit www.westboroughma.gov. Other items Williams announced that the shelter at the Sharp Building, near Lake Chauncy, had
its opening postponed again. It is now scheduled to open in December, and the site is still slated to welcome up to 20 families. The flags on the Rotary will be in place Nov. 4-18. The town’s annual Veterans Day observance will take place Saturday, Nov. 11, at 10:30 a.m. at the Forbes Municipal Building.
Whisk(e)y Road Show 2023 Saturday, November 4 Seminar: Milam & Green • 9:30 am - 1:30 pm Join Milam & Greene CEO, Heather Greene (Scotch Malt Whisky Society, Order of the Writ) for a tasting across her line of premium whiskies. • Milam & Greene Triple Cask • Milam & Greene Single Barrel • Milam & Greene Unabridged
• Milam & Greene Port Finished Rye • Milam & Greene Very Small Batch
Tickets are $40. Upon arrival at the Road Show, you will receive a $30 Julio’s Gift Card and a tasting glass.
40+ TABLES
Purchase a $10 Julio’s Gift Card to attend.
Seminar: The Laphroaig Legacy Lives On • 3 - 4 pm At the tasting, you will receive: a bottle of LAPHROAIG 10yr signed by Barry Macaffer and a Laphroaig L&K Branded Glass. $60 to reserve your seat. Join Laphroaig’s Distillery Manager, Barry Macaffer, and Brand Ambassador Extraordinaire, Simon Brooking, for an afternoon of reflection amidst the wonderful expressions of Laphroaig! • Laphroaig Lore • Laphroaig Px I Love You 14 Year * • Laphroaig Ian Hunter Book 1 • Laphroaig Ian Hunter Book 5 *
Whiskey Road Show 2023 5:45 - 8 pm
• Laphroaig Càirdeas 2023 White Port & Madeira Casks • Laphroaig Px I Love You Too 7 Year • Laphroaig Ian Hunter Book 2 *
* Not available for purchase at tasting, however Book 5 can be pre-ordered at the event.
Celebrate another harvest with us! 100+ wines will be available to taste. See you there!
Hotaling & Co. Uncle Nearest Bully Boy Glengoyne Edrington Dalmore & Horse Soilder Samuel Gelston Milam & Greene Bushmills & Stranahans Kaiyo Aberfeldy & Teeling Angel’s Envy Virginia Distillery Co Heaven’s Door Glendalough/Bearface KOVAL Distillery Joseph Magnus/Loch Lomond/Glen Scotia Found North Irish American Diageo Penelope/Yellowstone Heaven Hill Gordon & Macphail/Benromach High N’ Wicked Proof & Wood Beam Suntory 1 Beam Suntory 2 Whistle Pig Glenfiddich/Balvenie/Monkey Shoulder/ Tullamore DEW
And many more!
OPEN 7 DAYS Mon-Sat: 9 am - 9 pm Sun: 10 am - 7 pm
To download our app go to JuliosLiquors.com
Shop In-store, Online, Delivery, or Pick-up! Free delivery on orders over $300 140 Turnpike Rd., Westborough, Route 9 at Lyman St., 508-366-1942 | juliosliquors.com
6 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 3, 2023
COMMUNITY NEWS
ARPA funds OK’d for library resource guide reprint, consultant ARPA | from page 1
Discussion The board voted on the two requests separately after posing several questions about the requests. Hirsh voiced support for getting the report of a building assessment prior to allocating ARPA funds to a project like the request to reprint the guide.
She said there was a “long list” of requests for ARPA funds, and she was concerned the board was taking the projects little by little. However, Hirsh said she felt good about the request, noting community interest in funding mental health initiatives with the ARPA funds. Ziton noted overlap between the library and Northborough Youth and Family Services and asked if there would be a combination of efforts. Among her questions and comments in regards to the consultant, Maselli noted that Northborough Youth and Family Services isn’t currently operating. She asked if it would make more sense to hire a social worker and community outreach coordinator whose job description could “include what the consultant would do once.” The coordinator could also have office hours, she said. “I think that we’re forgetting that youth and family services is the one who really is supposed to be conducting
The Northborough Free Library’s ARPA funding requests were approved by the Select Board Oct. 23. PHOTO/LAURA HAYES
The first request was for $7,000 for a limited reprinting of the Northborough Community Resource Guide to account for updates like the creation of the 988 suicide and crisis lifeline. The library was also interested in creating magnets to direct people to an online version of the guide that would be regularly updated. The second request was for $20,000 for a consultant with a health and wellness background and knowledge of library services who would conduct a needs assessment, do research and deliver a strategic plan for the library focusing on health and wellness initiatives.
this,” Maselli said. The town, she said, “constantly wants to spend money on consultants.” “I don’t feel that it’s well spent in this case. If this was a burning need, then that should have come out of the Be Well [Northborough] money of $100,000. … I’m not confident that we should be spending that money for another consultant,” Maselli said. Be Well Northborough was a health and wellness initiative led by town staff that was funded by ARPA in early 2022. According to Cohen, as of late August, there was about $26,000 of the ARPA allocation of $100,000 for Be Well
Northborough. There were four earmarks for the funds, including the summer kickoff event in 2024 and Recreation Department and senior center programs. While some Select Board members asked questions about the requests, other board members said they were ready to vote on the requests that evening. “I’m concerned about bringing these back over and over and over again and what that does to staff for relatively small dollar items,” Cohen said during the conversation about the guide. “My preference is make a decision on it. If the board isn’t ready to, the board
isn’t ready to. If you have an objection, state that.” Wixted said she trusted Bruneau, who she said wouldn’t try to spend money frivolously. “That’s how we’re coming across — like we really don’t trust you,” she said. Maselli said it wasn’t that she didn’t have a lack of trust. She said she didn’t think the town needed to spend the money. “It’s the fact we’re fiduciary responsible people here — that’s our job. A hundred thousand dollars was given to the Be Well program that was used in ways I didn’t think was overly responsible in some cases,” she said. Maselli said the town was looking to the Select Board to make good decisions. “It’s not a case of not knowing what we’re doing; it’s a case of trying to be kind enough and compromising enough to say that maybe we do need some more information as to the importance of it,” Maselli said.
ELECTRICAL
Residential - Commercial 15% off services for New Customers EV charging stations • Generators Service upgrades with surge protection We also do Lighting • Kitchen Remodeling Bath Remodeling • Basement Remodeling 15 years in business, serving MetroWest & Central MA.
508.259.1296 Robert Hannigan • Master Electrician rthannigan@gmail.com
Licensed & Insured LIC #23505A CSL #102230
BOARDING Handcrafted Flatbread Pizzas
Casual Dining at its Best!
Homemade Meatloaf
TAKE OUT AVAILABLE Free Internet when dining now available
Our food is made on the premises using the finest and freshest ingredients.
Chicken Pot Pie Fresh Seafood daily Full Menu available for Take-out
10 Technology Drive • Hudson • 978-562-4400 LIKE US ON FACEBOOK
www.checkerboardsrestaurant.com
prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the Peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Jesus Christ. ~ Philippians 4:6-7
y
g
t.
t i na
Today, I enjoy the benefits of this verse in most areas of my life. I have lived with torture of worrying over people and circumstances over which I have no control and have learned the better way — to be thankful for the good, and pray to get me through the hard, and to give it all to God.
p hi cs b
GIBSON’S NATURAL PET Boarding • Grooming • Training • Daycare
139 Upton St. • Rte. 140 • Grafton Like us on
Proud Members of the APDT
508-839-1757
www.GibsonsNaturalPet.com
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by
ra
Dog Daycare Club Training - Basic Intermediate Rally Professional Grooming Retail Supplies Store
~ Isabella Campolattaro Sponsored by Chief Joseph Robert J. Terkanian, P.O. Box 808 • Northborough, MA 01532
C .N. CONSTRUCTION • Frame to Finish • Interior/Exterior • Crown Moulding & Basements • Decks & Porches • Stairs, Windows & Doors
No Job Too Small C. Neilson Construction, LLC Text Chris
@ 508.868.6104
COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 3, 2023 • 7
COMMUNITY NEWS
Northborough’s Women of Note chorus ready to compete By Cindy Zomar Contributing Writer
PHOTO/WOMEN OF NOTE
NORTHBOROUGH – Standing outside the Baptist Churches of New England Hall in Northborough on a Monday evening, the melodious sounds of fourpart a cappella harmony can be heard through the windows. Every week, a group of 20 to 30 women from all over the area joins together to sing, laugh, dance and share a camaraderie based on the love of singing. Women of Note — the local chapter of Harmony, Incorporated — is an awardwinning competitive chorus. Women of Note has once again qualified for an international event which will be held in Grand Rapids, Mich. from Nov. 8 through 11 this year. In 1990, Women of Note became part of Harmony, Incorporated, an international non-profit devoted to engaging women in fellowship, education, and barbershop harmony. This group is part of their Area 2 chapter, encompassing Con-
Women of Note, singing a cappella harmony in the barbershop style, will compete in Michigan in November.
necticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont and Montreal City, Canada. The Area Quartet Promotion Chairperson Ashley Lang shared some details of the competition. “We have five quartets who will compete Thursday and Saturday, while Friday the 10th will be for the whole chorus. One of our quartets, Intona-
tions, is ranked number one going into the competition!” said Lang. Besides the actual competitions at the Michigan event, there will be classes given by some of the best singing instructors from around the world and a huge international chorus will perform. New board members will be elected for Harmony, Inc. as well. “We have been practic-
ing here in Northborough for about a year, with members coming from maybe 20 towns, including as far as Nashua, New Hampshire,” continued Lang. Although the group boasts several music teachers, active and retired, most of the women have not had any professional voice lessons. They come from a wide range of backgrounds with one common interest – singing in harmony. Practices are a social event for many and start off with a little dancing to loosen up the whole body. Some physical exercise and stretches led by a yoga enthusiast are next, and then everyone finds their place on the risers to start the vocal warmups prior to the rehearsal of their latest numbers. “A cappella harmony in the style of barbershop has four specific sounds,” explained Lang. The leads carry the melody for the most part, and have strong, clear voices. Those who sing tenor sing a few
NOW LEASING
notes above the leads, without overshadowing them. Next come the baritones, singing in a middle range but harmonizing and blending either above or below the melody. The bass parts are for those with naturally low voices and almost have a melody of their own, often injecting humor into the arrangement. Women of Note, or the individual quartets, can be hired to sing at private parties, corporate events, fundraisers, nursing homes, offices, schools, etc. Singing valentines are available in February as well. “Our four-part harmony valentines are a delightful alternative to candy or flowers,” mentioned Lang. Practices are open to the public, and the group is always looking for additional members. Experience is not necessary, and they will help newcomers to find which of the four parts would suit them best. More information can be found on their website, https:// womenofnote.org 28,780 SF available For leasing information Dona Colangelo, RPA dcolangelo@julioenterprises.com Progressive Realty Consultants 508.366.4163
Stop & Shop
Drive by traffic of 90,000 cars per day!
Staples
Tatnuck Bookseller & Café
Julio’s Liquors
Westborough Shopping Center Convenient to Routes 9, 495 and the Mass Pike Office tenants may select from a variety of floor plans and rental options in and adjacent to the Westborough Shopping Center.
westboroughshoppingcenter.com
Progressive Realty Consultants 508.366.4163
Subway
Three Gorges & Mayuri
Mandarin
Mexicali Cantina Grill
8 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 3, 2023
Aging Gracefully
Seniors
by MariAnn Paladino, Dir. of Admissions, Notre Dame Long Term Care
on the move
FINANCIAL DECLINE IN SENIORS One of the challenges facing older adults is financial decline, which can include managing their finances properly. It can be an uncomfortable topic to think about for both seniors and their families. Managing money, after all, is one of the ways people maintain independence and control over their lives. It can be difficult to acknowledge it is time to give it up. Warning signs include taking longer to complete everyday financial tasks, a decline in math skills, decreased understanding of financial concepts, and reduced attention to financial document details. Seniors can take preventative measures to ease this decline such as simplifying finances, having a power of attorney or financial planner, and setting up a living trust. Caregiving involves more than just medical problems. Helping your loved one manage his or her finances can ensure that he or she will be able to pay for needed care and live more comfortably. Make sure the family knows where to find important documents. These include bank and brokerage statements, wills, insurance policies, and pension records. To learn more about our long-term care center, please call NOTRE DAME LONG TERM CARE CENTER at (508) 852-3011. We are located at 559 Plantation Street. P.S. One viable tactic seniors can employ to help with their finances is allowing a trusted person, whether a family member or professional, to monitor their accounts.
Aging Gracefully at Home 3 stylish safety and mobility products (Family Features) While aging is inevitable, it doesn’t mean you can’t do so with grace and style. For many seniors hoping to look and feel their best, there are plenty of options, from the clothing they wear to products they use every day. Choosing more ‘stylish’ safety accessories is one way to go. To improve quality of life and inspire confidence, Medline, a leading provider of consumer medical products, teamed up with Martha Stewart to introduce the Martha Stewart Home Comfort Care Collection. The line of design-inspired safety and mobility products combines sophisticated design and dependability to help those who use them look and feel their best.
Consider these supportive care products to maximize style and safety, and find the full collection by visiting athome.medline.com. Around the Home The right mobility aid can help you navigate your home. One option, the Adjustable Rolling Walker, combines a chic, sporty checked pattern with renowned functional features to help you easily stand and walk safely and independently. Its smooth-rolling, all-terrain wheels make it easy to get around in or outside of your home while push-down, locking brakes are ready for a rest stop at any time. Plus, it easily folds for travel and storage, and features under-seat storage and adjustable easy-grip handles for a custom fit and fashionable function. For the Bathroom The most essential purpose of bathroom safety aids is to prevent falls on wet, slippery surfaces. Beyond securely-attached bath mats and grab bars, the Martha Stewart Euro-Style Shower Chair allows you to sit while showering for extra peace of mind. With built-in handgrips and a backrest for comfort, the rust-resistant chair also features adjustable, push-button height settings to improve stability and built-in Microban protection to resist mold and mildew.
Notre Dame Health Care
Long Term Care 559 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 508.852.3011 · notredamehealthcare.org
Trusted Like Family Home Care, Inc.
FamilyWith With Your TrustTrust OurOur Family YourFamily Family
Are you or a loved one in need of top-quality home care services? • Offering in-home care services to seniors and disabled adults in Worcester County • Employing only the finest caregivers • Locally owned and managed fully insured and bonded • Client satisfaction and service are our top priorities!
Contact us today to see how we can help!
508-579-1890 info@trustedlikefamilyhomecare.com www.trustedlikefamilyhomecare.com
“We are excited to enter into this unique partnership,” said Dawn Freitag, Medline senior marketing manager. “Martha Stewart’s signature style has always set the standard for better, more enjoyable living and this line of mobility and bath safety products is no exception. We believe these fashionable, modern designs along with our top-rated quality and value pricing will help seniors live their happiest, healthiest lives with exceptional safety, security and style.”
Healthy Senior Living at its BEST! Cottages ~ Apartments Assisted Living ~ Memory Care Services Available
Call us at… 508-852-2670
www.briarwoodretirement.com On 50 acres in Worcester & West Boylston
A caring community for elders
Goddard / Homestead
INDEPENDENT LIVING • REST HOME • RESPITE CARE
A Legacy of Providing Exceptional Senior Care Since 1874 For information contact Tracey King at
(508)868-0967 www.goddardhomestead.org
AN ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY
In the Bedroom There are numerous products designed to maximize rest, relaxation and safety in and around your bed. To help you get in and out of bed, an Adjustable Bed Assist Bar slides around the side of the mattress – without floor legs that may pose a tripping hazard – to offer support. With a stylish faux woodgrain bag design and neutral color, the bar seamlessly blends in with bedding and linens to provide both function and flair.
Let us do the work! 508-281-8001
99 Pleasant St., Marlborough
www.christopherheights.com
Staying Connected At New Horizons retirement community in Marlborough, we believe strongly in the importance of staying connected. Through daily activities, open visiting hours, and regular community events, we create frequent opportunities for residents to engage with each other as well as family members, friends, and even acquaintances from long ago. Immediate availability, including three home-cooked meals daily, starting at $2,400/month for one resident.
Independent and assisted living
Contact our rental team seven days a week.
6.
508-460-5200 | CountryCommunities.com
COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 3, 2023 • 9
COMMUNITY NEWS
Grafton Town Meeting approves TIF agreement, water treatment facility By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor GRAFTON – Residents at Fall Town Meeting on Monday, Oct. 16, approved all 65 articles in the warrant. The majority of the warrant — the first 41 articles — were revisions to the town’s bylaws. These were approved by consent agenda. According to the report presented by the Bylaw Study Committee, the committee conducted a “top-to-bottom review” of the bylaws, fulfilling a requirement in the town charter to have the bylaws reviewed every five years. The closest vote of the night came with Article 53, a fiveyear Tax Increment Financing agreement with Feedback Earth. The agreement was for an addition for the facility, which transforms food waste into animal feed. This article was submitted by the Town Administrator and TIF Committee and recommended by the Finance
Committee. Under the TIF, Feedback Earth’s addition would be exempt from tax in the first year, going to 75% the second year; 50% in the third year; 25% in the fourth year, and 1% the fifth year. “The TIF Committee has worked diligently to negotiate a fair and equitable agreement with Feedback Earth Inc. that will serve all parties,” the Finance Committee wrote in its recommendation in the warrant. Some residents complained about the smell produced by the facility. One resident said there were 120 complaints to the Board of Health. According to Town Administrator Evan Brassard, Feedback Earth fixed its deodorizer. “The place is clean, and there are no rats,” said Select Board member Ray Mead. Town Meeting approved the article 85-48. There was also some discussion about the construction of a water treatment facility off
Your Hometown Grocer
Offering Personalized Service for Over 40 Years
Have You Tried a Fresh Native Turkey? Taking Orders Now For Fresh Turkeys From Bob’s in Lancaster! Sizes range from 14-28 lbs. Don’t Forget to Order Your Pies and Sides: • 6 Kinds of Pies • Our Own Mashed Potatoes, Squash & Cranberry Sauce From Peppers Artful Events • Turkey Gravy (GF)
NORTHBOROUGH SHOPPING PLAZA
255 West Main Street • Northborough • 508-393-6594 Hours: Monday – Saturday: 9am - 7pm Sunday: 7am - 2 pm
Powerline Drive. The article would have the town enter a long-term lease with the Grafton Water District (GWD). According to the article, “construction of this water treatment facility will improve water quality in the area of Powerline Drive, and
all households serviced by that well.” According to Robert Williams of the Grafton Water District, the facility would filter iron, manganese and PFAS from the groundwater. Resident Linda Hutchins asked about the impact of
the facility on the local wildlife, since building the facility would mean the removal of trees. Select Board member Andrew Jefferson said the town will discuss this with the GWD. Town Meeting approved the article 121-8.
Pharmaceutical manufacturer to lease Centech Park North space By Evan Walsh Reporter SHREWSBURY – Shrewsbury Town Manager Kevin Mizikar provided updates on Centech Park North at the Select Board meeting on Oct. 24. Mizikar said that Physik Instrumente (PI) was currently in negotiations with Northbridge Partners, the developer of Centech Park North, to lease 125,000 square feet of the 197,000-square-foot building.
PI, which is a high-tech manufacturer, outlined plans to move to Shrewsbury in September. The space would be PI’s new American headquarters. Northbridge communicated that the company was “confident” it would be able to sign a lease with PI. PI is seeking tax incentives (TIF) to move to Shrewsbury; Shrewsbury Town Meeting would need to approve the TIF for PI to officially move to Centech Park North.
Northbridge has also signed a lease with WuXi Biologics, a Worcester-based pharmaceutical manufacturer, for 58,000 square feet of the smaller Centech Park North building. The company will use the space for cold storage and chemical storage. “It’s good to get another bio business into that area of town,” Mizikar said. Centech Park North is located at the corner of South Street and Route 20.
Giving Windows The Treatment Since 2010
Your local & best choice for Shades, Shutters, Blinds, Draperies & Valances All from the comfort of your home
508.251.2846
linda@lindasdecors.com www.lindasdecors.com
10 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 3, 2023
COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
Shrewsbury student earns perfect score on SAT By Evan Walsh Reporter
Ashwin Sivagaminathan recently scored 1600 on the SAT.
will serve him well in future endeavors.” Sivagaminathan described the moment he found out he had earned a perfect score. “I was so happy. I was on the bus and I was sitting next
to my friend,” he said. “I didn’t have very good service at the time, so I couldn’t check. My dad texted me, and he sent me a screenshot… of the score. I was basically jumping up and down. I couldn’t believe it. I was like
30-Day Vacation Program
GRAFTON – Boy Scout Troop 107 will hold its autumn bottle drive on Saturday, Nov. 4, from 9 a.m. to noon. Bring your deposit bottles and cans to the back of the Grafton Municipal Center, 30 Providence Road. The troop asks donors to rinse out their bottles and cans ahead of time. The troop also asks for people to presort their containers by soda cans, beer cans, glass, 1-liter plastic, 2-liter plastic and smaller plastic
All the great blessings of my life are present in my thoughts today.
Pheobe Cary Brought to you as a community service by Robert J. Terkanian ~ ad design by Ellen Bishop, Community Advocate art dept.
items. When you arrive at the back parking lot, you will be directed where to leave your containers. Once you depart, Scouts and parents will then retrieve them for processing. If you need assistance getting the containers from your car, signal an adult leader. Someone will collect them while you remain in your car. Scouts and parents will be working in family units, in shifts, with masks and gloves, and maintaining physical distancing at all times. If you can’t make the dropoff, the Boy Scouts can pick up at your home (Grafton only). Contact graftonbsatroop107@gmail.com to schedule this and include your name and address. Place your clean and presorted empties in a highly visible spot by 8 a.m. on Nov. 4, and the Boy Scouts will do the rest. The Scouts will hold additional spring and summer bottle drives in 2024. Money raised from bottle drives supports the Scouts’ campouts, activities, community service projects and routine expenses.
Brighten their day…
If you’re curious about residing at New Horizons retirement community in Marlborough but aren’t ready to commit, take advantage of our 30-day assisted or independent program. We allow individuals or couples to test our suites, which come fully equipped with a kitchenette, emergency response system, cable, and more. The suite is also completely furnished.
Our arrangements are Florist-designed Hand delivered with 100% Satisfaction Guarantee!
One of the biggest perks of our program is that you’ll also receive three meals a day, housekeeping and linen services, as well as access to our heated indoor lap swimming pool. Immediate availability, including three home-cooked meals daily, starting at $2,400/month for one resident. 12.
508-460-5200
line private tutoring company developed by Sivagaminathan’s father in 2020. While studying for the test, Sivagaminathan helped his father run the company, vetting potential tutors and editing documents.
Grafton Boy Scouts to conduct bottle drive PHOTO/EVAN WALSH
SHREWSBURY – Ashwin Sivagaminathan has achieved one of the country’s rarest academic feats. The Shrewsbury High School sophomore aced the SAT – scoring all 1600 available points. The SAT is typically taken by upperclassmen, but Sivagaminathan wanted to get ahead of the curb because he expected to be busy during his junior year. Sivagaminathan started studying for the exam in March, taking two hour-long classes per week. In the weeks leading up to the August SAT, he started taking full-length practice tests. “Ashwin’s achievement is quite an accomplishment,” said Shrewsbury High School Principal Todd Bazydlo. “It’s a testament to his hardwork and perseverance. These qualities
‘Wow! Did I actually do that?’ ” Sivagaminathan — who is interested in computer science — credited Shrewsbury High School and EdKonnect Academy with much of his success. EdKonnect Academy is an on-
CountryCommunities.com
Natural Beauty of the Season. Shop Now
SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL FLORIST
8 Warburton Lane (Route 30) • Westboro 508.836.5554 / www.mugfords.com
Hours - M- F, 8-5:30 • Saturday 9-1 - Local and Worldwide Delivery
COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 3, 2023 • 11
COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
Panther’s Den store opens at Marlborough High By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor MARLBOROUGH – Like other student stores, the Panther’s Den offers an array of snacks, drinks and merchandise. It also offers copying and shredding services, and can even do laundry. The Panther’s Den, located near the Textiles program on the main floor at Marlborough High School, gives the students in MPS’ special education programs the opportunity to work at several tasks. Opened in early October, the Panther’s Den has been a big hit, according to the staffers who got the store up and running. “We started the school store, the Panther’s Den, as a way to provide in-house vocational opportunities for our students in a variety of programs in Marlborough High School,” said Emily Meehan, a transition specialist for the high school. Sheri Mistretta, another
Emily Meehan, center, helps some of the student volunteers running the newly-opened Panther’s Den at Marlborough High School.
PHOTO/MAUREEN SULLIVAN
transition specialist and Meehan’s supervisor, had experience in running a student store. “So far, so good,” she said. “We’re getting a following among the staff.” Currently, the store — open to MPS staff only — sells snacks, sodas, and merchandise such as water bottles, coffee and coffee mugs. MHS clothing could be available soon, said Meehan.
Funds for the initial stock came from the special education account, said Meehan. “Once we become more established, we will be using the money we make to put right back into the store for more items and restocks,” she added. The student volunteers staffing the store are enrolled in the Connections and TLC programs (for grades 9-12), and the LIFE and Pathways programs (for ages 18-22).
“During their time in the store, students complete a number of tasks depending on their preferences and ability levels. Some of the tasks they complete are money management, cleaning, socializing with customers and coworkers, restocking, clerical work and so much more,” said Meehan. Christopher M., another Pathways member, said he’s been learning how to count
change and restock. “I like it when people come,” said Jocelyn, a volunteer who is in the Pathways postgraduate program. According to Meehan, a total of 12 student volunteers work per day, in two- to threeperson shifts. “The administration has been really helpful,” said Meehan. “We are all proud of the students and teachers who worked together to make the Panther Den a reality for our school. This is a wonderful opportunity that has been established for our post-graduate students,” said MHS Principal Dan Riley. The Panther’s Den is currently open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. The store staff will be running a pop-up shop on the weekend of Nov. 18 and 19 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Weed Street parking lot. According to Meehan, the students hope to sell ornaments and seasonal apparel.
NOVEMBER
OF THE
Month
Come play with me at Dottie’s!
Meet
“Cozmo”
Nicknames Piglet & Cozzy Favorite Friends Roscoe, Blue, & Phoebe Favorite Things:Sunbathing, treats & toys
Dottie’s Doggy Daycare & Grooming
Northborough Location
NOW OPEN! 14 Blake Street, Northborough (Former location of The Doggie Den)
508-523-4932 Dottiesdoggydaycareandgrooming@gmail.com M-F 6:30 am – 6 pm • Grooming by Appointment BOARDING AVAILABLE AT SHREWSBURY LOCATION
12 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 3, 2023
COMMUNITY NEWS
Grafton establishes MBTA overlay districts By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor GRAFTON – The town has five new overlay districts to comply with the MBTA’s mandate to create zones where multifamily units could be built by right. During Fall Town Meeting on Monday, Oct. 16, residents voted to create the MBTA Communi-
ties Overlay District (MCMOD) in the following five areas: • MCMOD 1 – off Pine Street, adjacent to the MBTA Commuter Rail tracks • MCMOD 2 – off Depot Street in South Grafton • MCMOD 3 – Fisherville Smart Growth Overlay District, South Grafton • MCMOD 4 – off Millenium
Drive • MCMOD 5 – Upton Street, near North Street The overlay district, which is part of existing zoning districts, comprises 105 acres. Developers wishing to build within the overlay district must meet affordability requirements and other regulations. According to David Robbins,
Your Money, Your Independence Stop Making Sense: Massachusetts Updates Estate Tax Laws t’s taken 2 years, but Massachusetts lawmakers finally provided legislation for Governor Healey to sign on October 4th impacting the lowest (worst) U.S. estate tax threshold as part of a “$1 billion tax relief package”. There are several positives in this package. Benefits for expanded childcare credit (over 30% of package), seniors, renters, septic systems, low-income housing, commuters, and short-term capital gains reduced from 12% to 8.5%. Recall an estate tax may be owed based on net value of the estate of a deceased Glenn Brown, CFP person before distribution to non-spousal heirs. To calculate net value, add all assets (real estate, investments, IRAs, small business, life insurance proceeds, personal property etc.) minus liabilities. Key facts on MA update: Estate tax exemption rises to $2 million from $1 million, first increase since 2006. • Provides a uniform credit of $99,600. • Eliminates “the cliff effect” when all assets were taxed if over threshold. • Retroactive for estates of decedent’s death on or after January 1, 2023. • Filed 2023 estate tax returns or estimates paid are entitled to a refund. This Must Be The Place (Naive Melody) Before celebrating a victory for the Commonwealth by echoing legislators that this “doubles the previous threshold”, understand there are only 12 states in the U.S. that still tax estates. Yes, you can live in 38 other states and pay $0 state estate tax regardless of your wealth. Furthermore, the federal estate tax exemption is now $12.92 million, over 6X greater than MA. For most, there’s little concern of having a life’s work of earning, planning and saving being taxed upon death by the federal government. Same As It Ever Was, Same As It Ever Was… The new $2M threshold moves MA from tied for 49th worst to 48th of U.S. states. Consider actions of other states since 2018 per taxfoundation.org.
part of MCMOD 1. The site is currently a vacant industrial park with a hill and deep slopes. Some residents questioned whether blasting would be required to clear the site to which Town Planner Fiona Coughlan said it would. “I think it’s a good project for the town,” said Select Board member Ray Mead.
Westborough Historical Society presents program in printing
PROFESSIONAL PERSPECTIVES
I
vice chair of the Planning Board, the overlay district helps fulfill the town’s requirements as an MBTA community. “The districts were already in compliance,” he said. “It’s been fairly easy for us.” In a related article, Town Meeting also voted to establish the North Grafton Transit Village Overlay District, which is
New Jersey and Delaware eliminated their estate tax. Vermont raised to $5M, Maine $6.4M, New York $6.58M and Connecticut now aligns to federal government’s $12.92M. Additionally, Illinois ($4M) and Oregon ($1M) legislators have proposals to increase to the federal government’s $12.92M or higher. Take Me To The River (or another state)? How quickly can one’s estate exceed $2 million in MA? Consider the median single-family home sale price in Middlesex County is $845,000. Add savings, 401(k), 403(b), any insurance proceeds, value of a small business, maybe a generations Maine lake house… it can add up. Connect with an estate planning attorney. New laws and life events are opportune times to connect as well as provide an updated net worth and review your process. Remember, revocable living trusts bypass probate, not estate tax laws. Know your net worth. Run updated estate tax estimates after $99,600 credit applied. MA is still a graduated tax rate starting 0.8% up to 16%. For example, $3M is now ~$82,400 in MA estate taxes, $5M is ~$292,000 taxes, and $10M is ~$968,000 taxes. Plan to be agile in retirement. Connection to seasons, family and friends can be strong. However, proper planning can create alternatives for residency in 38 states to no longer deal with state estate tax. Plus, potentially improve up 5% MA state income tax (make that 9% if earning over $1M). At $10M net value, does one put $1M towards a new or 2nd home in another state, declare residency so heirs receive this value? Or stay in Massachusetts to pay ~$1M in estate tax? As a fiduciary, it’s a responsibility to educate on the possibilities for those interested. 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.
WESTBOROUGH – On Monday, Nov. 6, at 6:30 p.m. at the Westborough Public Library, the Westborough Historical Society will present “Printing and Revolution: The Role of Printers in Revolutionary Boston.” The program will feature printmaster Gary Gregory, the founder of Edes and Gill, a colonial living history printing museum on the grounds of the historic Old North Church in Boston. His presentation will discuss the connections between colonial newspapers, the printing business, the American Revolution and citizens, as well as the juxtaposition of liberty and enslavement in the colonial era. Gregory’s reproduction 18th-century print shop is one of only three working colonial print shops in the United States, and the only one in Boston. This program, in the library’s program room, is free and open to the public.
Let Let us us help help you you get get settled settled in in your your new new home home with custom window treatments. Boston’s Premier Window with custom window treatments.
Covering Specialists
Shutters Blinds Shades Custom Treatments
simply-windows.com
133 East Main St, Westborough, MA 508-544-2813
COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 3, 2023 • 13
COMMUNITY NEWS
November Guest Day Nov. 9
Community Snapshot
SOUTHBOROUGH – The Southborough Gardeners will be presenting November Guest Day on Thursday, Nov. 9 at Pilgrim Congregational church. The event will feature the presentation “Floral Techniques from Europe and Asia” by Lisa Oberholzer-Gee. There will also be a boutique featuring handcrafted items for sale and a raffle of items, including floral arrangements. The doors open at 9 a.m. and the presentation will begin at 10 a.m. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at the door or online at https://www.southboroughgardeners.org/.
Scouting for Food returns in Southborough
PHOTO/COURTESY ALLIE LANE
NORTHBOROUGH – Connor Rand checks out his spooky passenger in a Northborough Department of Public Works vehicle. Community members gathered at the Northborough Senior Center for a trunkor-treat on Oct. 24. The event featured local civic organizations and Northborough town departments.
SOUTHBOROUGH – After being on hiatus for several years, the Southborough Scouting for Food drive will return on Saturday, Nov. 4. On that day, Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts will hang bags on doors to collect donations to benefit the Southborough Food Pantry. The scouts will also leave a flyer with a list of the current needs of the pantry. Anyone who wishes to participate can leave filled bags or boxes next to their mailbox by 9 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 11 when scouts will come and pick up the donations. Scouting for Food has been the largest annual food drive for the Southborough Food Pantry and has been essential to ensure the pantry’s shelves are stocked through the winter and beyond. In 2019, over 10,000 lbs of food were donated.
You can trust us to keep you safe and informed
because we care.
AUTHENTIC
Still Locally Owned & Serving Worcester County for Over 60 Years!
Join our ! family
We accept most major credit cards
LOWEST PRICES • FULL-SERVICE • 24-HR EXPERT BURNER SERVICE
508-753-7221 • ALSOILSERVICE.com
When this happens, call the water damage experts!
When this happens, call the water damage experts!
We Bill Insurance Companies Directly
When this happens, call the water damage experts!
We are getting great reviews! Visit us soon.
NOW OPEN!
820 Boston Post Road E, Marlborough (508) 251-2849 • www.donpatronmexican.com We look forward to serving you.
Now Booking Fall Clean Ups and Commercial Plowing Spaces are limited. Call & schedule TODAY!
WESTBOROUGH, MA
WATER • FIRE MOLD CLEAN-UP INSURANCE REPAIRS
WESTBOROUGH, M A
Emergency Service 24/7 Emergency Service24/7 508-366-2669 508-366-2669
www.mccarthyslandscaping.com
508-842-7110 508-835-2020
14 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 3, 2023
COMMUNITY NEWS
Westborough offers a sweet time for trick-or-treaters These “Hocus Pocus” witches didn’t make traffic disappear, but they did join police in performing crosswalk duty for trick-or-treaters. And yes, that’s Select Board member Shelby Marshall in the middle.
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor WESTBOROUGH – The emphasis was definitely on treats on Oct. 24 as hundreds of families flowed through downtown Westborough for the annual Main Street Trick or Treat. Many businesses dressed up for the occasion, with pumpkins and spider webs welcoming the young and old in costumes. Municipal departments joined the fun — the town clerk’s office became the haunt for Scooby Doo and his gang, while the town manager’s office turned into the “Great Pumpkin” patch. Minions took over the Planning and Building departments at Forbes, while the School Department was transformed into Buzz Lightyear and the “Toy Story” crowd. Both the police and fire departments offered haunted houses; the police had a werewolf and Frankenstein as special guests. At Bay State Commons, the Flour Girls Baking Company’s food truck offered cookies. Good weather helped keep the crowd constant and on the move through the late afternoon; several
Clothing and toiletries drive to benefit homeless veterans WESTBOROUGH – In celebration of Kindness Week Nov. 5-16, Westborough Public Schools and the Veterans Advisory Board will coordinate a drive to benefit local homeless veterans. The kind of items most needed for male and female veterans include: • New socks, toiletries (soap, razors, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant). • New winter hats and gloves, new winter clothes in adult sizes, new clothes of all kinds in adult sizes, and used winter clothing in adult sizes. Donations may be dropped off at the police station, Westborough Public Library, senior center, Mill Pond, Armstrong, Fales and Hastings elementary schools, Gibbons Middle School, Westborough High School and Town Hall. Other dropoff locations will be announced.
PHOTOS/MAUREEN SULLIVAN
So many choices at the annual Main Street Trick or Treat on Oct. 24 in downtown Westborough.
trick-or-treat stops reported running out of candy. Volunteers joined police in guiding trick-or-treaters across the street in
several locations. The event was sponsored by the Recreation Department and the Economic Development Committee.
NEW
NEW CABINETS, COUNTERS, CABINET PAINTING, REFACING...
TRANSIT SERVICE IN
HUDSON
Branding Concepts Family Dental Group
MWRTA Catch Connect
Concept 2 | Revised Main Logo:
Go anywhere in Hudson & select locations in Marlborough for $2! Monday - Friday 6:45 AM - 6:45 Logo PM with Tagline: & Saturday’s 8 AM - 6 PM
Family
298 Boston Tpke., Suite #5, Shrewsbury 508.842.6677 | nufacekitchens.com
Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry | Periodontics | Orthodontics | Dental Hygiene | Implants | Root Canals | Oral Surgery | Pediatric
Family
Family
of Northborough
of Gardner
DENTAL GROUP
www.mwrta.com/catch
(508) 283 - 5083
Submarks:
Sunbit: Smile now, pay-over-time. Flexible payment plans! We accept most insurance plans
DENTAL GROUP
Family Contact Us
Studio Hours By Appointment Only Sheila@nufacekitchens.com
DENTAL GROUP
A BEAUTIFUL SMILE SAYS A LOT ABOUT YOU. DOWNLOAD THE MWRTA CATCH LET US HELP YOU cherish it. APP & BOOK TODAY!Location Specific Logos:318 Main St., Suite 180 | Northborough
More Info
CATION
UDIO LO
NEW ST
DENTAL GROUP
Now accepting MassHealth (in Northborough office only).
Dr. Nikhil Lavana BDS, DMD
Dr. Archana Karkhanis - Lavana BDS, DMD
508.466.7211
lavanafamilydental.com
NEW PATIENT SPECIAL
The beautiful, Healthy Smile Creating you’ve always wanted is easier than ever! Healthy NEW PATIENT EXAM Smiles & BITEWING X-RAYS ONLY $1* DENTAL *Must purchase Regular Cleaning at the same time (Applies to only patients who do not have insurance) Through GROUP Call today for your FREE consultation Scienceofand PaxtonNo Dental Benefits? We Have You Covered! Artistry Join Our Smile Savers Membership plan KLEER
Family
Stylized Taglines:
Gentle FAMILY DETISTRY
and SAVE TODAY!
COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 3, 2023 • 15
COMMUNITY NEWS
Community gets a ‘Taste of Northborough’ By Evan Walsh Reporter NORTHBOROUGH – Community members came hungry and left full. A variety of Northborough’s restaurants, caterers, and businesses gathered in one location on Oct. 28 for the Applefest “Taste of Northborough” event. Hundreds of community members filed into Melican Middle School for samples from their favorite local spots. The Applefest Committee collaborated with the Northborough Knights of Columbus and the Algonquin Regional High School National Honor Society to hold the event. “We appreciate everybody taking the time to come out… and show support for all of the hard work the Applefest Committee, Knights of Columbus and Algonquin Regional High School National Honor Society did this year for Applefest weekend. We hope to have that continued relationship,”
Patrons tried different food at the event’s different stations.
PHOTOS/EVAN WALSH
said Applefest Committee Chairman Michelle Gillespie. Patrons were able to sample food from Armeno Coffee Roasters, Aero Coffee Roast-
Gather Provisions had samples of butternut squash soup.
ers, Yummy Mummy Bakery, Tougas Farm, Monti’s Pizza, The Cellar Bar & Grille, Sir Loin Catering, The Neighborhood Tavern, La Miette La
Mai Thai Bistro, Lil M’s Mart, Athens Pizzeria, 110 Grill, Evviva Trattoria, Casta Diva Restaurant, Northboro House of Pizza and Gather Provisions.
Other local spots, like Lowe’s Meat Market and Innovations Hair Salon, helped make the event’s silent auction possible. For more information on the event’s vendors, please visit http:// northboroughapplefest. com/. The event, originally scheduled for Sept. 10, was moved to late October after heavy rain canceled the Applefest Parade, the car show, the fireworks and other Applefest activities. Gillespie said she was happy the community rallied around the Applefest Committee after rain compromised the majority of this year’s events. “We’re eternally grateful to the business community — especially our restaurants and stores — that really stepped up and saw that we had a financial loss… and they wanted to come out and help us. It was the act, the act of kindness of our business community, to help another group,” she told the Community Advocate after the event.
&MORE
16 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 3, 2023
HOMES This is a paid advertisement
The Perks of Selling Your House When Inventory Is Low
W
hen it comes to selling your house, you’re probably trying to juggle the current market conditions and your own needs as you plan your move.
years for the market (shown in the blue bars) versus the latest numbers for this year (shown in the red bar), it’s clear inventory is still far lower than the norm.
One thing that may be working in your favor is how few homes there are for sale right now. Here’s what you need to know about the current inventory situation and what it means for you. Elaine Quigley, CBR, CRS, GRI Elaine.Quigley@commonmoves.com
Cell: (508) 735-5161 www.EQRE.com
Commonwealth Real Estate A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC.
The Supply of Homes for Sale Is Far Below the Norm When you’re selling something, it helps if what you’re selling is in demand, but is also in low supply. Why? That makes it even more desirable since there’s not enough to go around. That’s exactly what’s happening in the housing market today. There are more buyers looking to buy than there are homes for sale. To tell the story of just how low inventory is, here’s the latest information on active listings, or homes available for sale. The graph below uses data from Realtor.com to show how many active listings there were in September of this year compared to what’s more typical in the market. As you can see in the graph, if you look at the last normal
MICE OR RODENT PROBLEMS? Take back your home
$50 Off
a one-time service for mice. One Coupon Per Customer New Customers Only
We practice IPM Intergrated Pest Management techniques and keep your home safe & heathy for you and your family.
RansfordPC.com
Call Us! 508-626-2847 or 508-756-5197
Celebrating 40 Years of Family Dentistry B RYAN D ENTAL A SSOCIATES Dedicated Staff, Modern Facility, Convenient Location, Easy Parking
Dr. Eric Bryan
We accept most insurance & major credit cards FULL SERVICE FAMILY DENTISTRY • PATIENTS AGES 3 YEARS TO SENIORS
REPLATE
48 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury . 508.842.0941 Mon - Thurs 7:30-6:00
Bottom Line Because the supply of homes for sale is so low, buyers desperately want more options – and your house may be just what they’re looking for. Let’s connect to get your house listed at the right price for today’s market. You could still see it sell quickly and potentially get multiple offers.
It Costs Less
To Do The Job Right The First Time E.W. GEmmE & SonS Co. InC.
Accepting New Patients www.BryanDental.net
What That Means for You Buyers have fewer choices now than they did in more typical years. And that’s why you could still see some great perks if you sell today. Because there aren’t enough homes to go around, homes that are priced right are still selling fast and the average seller is getting multiple offers from eager buyers. Based on the latest data from the Confidence Index from the National Association of Realtors (NAR): • 69% of homes sold in less than a month. • 2.6 offers: the average number of offers on recently sold homes. An article from Realtor.com also explains how the limited number of houses for sale benefits you if you’re selling: “. . . homes spent two weeks less on the market this past month than they did in the average September from 2017 to 2019 . . . as still-limited supply spurs homebuyers to act quickly . . .”
MRK CLEANING SERVICES
RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL CLEANING
“Gemme Painting since 1907”
508-361-4154
CALL NOW for Your Painting Needs
Over 10 years of experience Fully insured and bonded
Exterior & Interior • Carpentry Power Washing • Decks Restored
Please check reviews on our website: www.mrkcleaning.com
508-839-4775 Visit Our Website: www.ewgemmeandsons.com MA HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTRACTOR LIC 125150 FULLY INSURED
Winter Special! $120 for 4 hours of cleaning
COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 3, 2023 • 17
COMMUNITY HISTORY
Westborough Golf Club has endured for more than a century WESTBOROUGH THEN NOW By Kristina Nilson Allen History Columnist WESTBOROUGH – The small, dimpled ball soared from Turkey Hill and landed firmly on the side of Fox Hill. Any of the original wild inhabitants have been replaced over the last century by humans equally wild ― about golf. Thomas Rice, the first settler in Westborough, originally owned this site (now 121 West Main Street) and built his farmhouse here. In 1725 he sold his property to Lieutenant Edward Baker, a highly respected town leader who served as a member of the first school committee, as a selectman, and as town clerk from 1726-1760. In the early 1870s, the original Thomas Rice House was moved to 115 West Main Street. Moses Pollard built a farmhouse on the property in 1871. The newly created Westborough Country Club bought the Pollard estate and large farmhouse in April 1921.The club built a complete recreation facility, featuring croquet, badminton, clay tennis courts, and a golf course. Later other sports were added, such as cross-country skiing and tobogganing. In 1945 Bay State Abrasives bought the golf course as an amenity for its employees and permitted some of the general public to join. Dresser Industries bought Bay State in 1971, and in 1974 sold the country club of 108 acres. Jack Negoshian worked as Westborough’s golf pro from 1988 until his retirement in 2021. “When the Westborough Country Club was founded in 1921, it was originally seven holes and was owned privately,” he explained. ”It was expanded to nine holes by greenskeeper Bill Spence in 1935, when he added the current third and fourth holes.” Spence served as greenskeeper for 40 years, from 1927-1967. At the height of golf’s popularity in the late 1980s, the Westborough Country Club boasted about 430 members, including spouses and juniors. If you wanted to join, there was a five-year waiting list. However, memberships be-
A postcard of the Westborough Country Club circa 1930-1945.
gan to decline in 2010, resulting in a low of 200 in 2018. After the increased interest in outdoor sports during the Covid pandemic, and added categories for young adults and seniors, the Westborough Golf Club now numbers nearly 300 members. In 2018 the name officially changed to the Westborough Golf Club. It is operated by the Westborough Recreation Department with a golf manager and a golf course superintendent and staff under independent contract.
According to Negoshian, in the early days, golfers carried their own bags. Young boys then got involved as caddies. The Recreation Department has offered summer programs to build youths’ interest in golf. “Mike Hightower has been the superintendent for 20 years and keeps the course in great shape,” said Negoshian, who plays golf there almost daily. “It was rare to have a golf course in a small town in the 1920s, and it still is a real benefit to the town.”
The Right Place To Feel
Right at Home
Assisted living studios available now! The sooner you sign, the more you save!
NOW’S THE RIGHT TIME. Exclusive savings on assisted living studios. Call now to learn how to save.
Now’s the time to move to Artisan at Hudson and you can save on an assisted living studio. You’ll enjoy the privacy of your own thoughtfully designed apartment, around-the-clock personalized assistance, and access to every inviting space, amenity, and activity offered in our boutique community. Our flexible rental agreement allows residents to live a hospitality-focused and service-rich lifestyle. You spend your time doing things you love to do with new friends, while enjoying new opportunities.
Call us today to schedule your tour of our independent living, assisted living, and memory care community – and lock in savings. (978) 763-8165 253 Washington Street Hudson, MA 01749
REPLATE
www.ArtisanAtHudson.com
Independent Living | Assisted Living | Connections Memory Care
18 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 3, 2023
COMMUNITY NEWS
Peace of mind… is
our policy.
Johnston named Massachusetts Library Trustee of the Year By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
HOMEOWNER • AUTOMOBILE • BUSINESS
CONTACT US TODAY FOR A FREE INSURANCE QUOTE!
Getting the best insurance rates in Massachusetts is No Accident We Specialize in Personal Insurance including Coastal Locations and Prestige Programs for High Value Homes.
Northeast INsuraNce ageNcy
Colonial Plaza 45 East Main Street
Heritage Mall 567 Southbridge Street
508-898-2902
508-832-0404
WESTBOROUGH
AUBURN
WWW.NEINSURE.COM
Marlborough
NOVEMBER 13TH - 19TH
WESTBOROUGH – Mary Johnston, the chair of the Westborough Public Library Board of Trustees, has been named Massachusetts Library Trustee of the Year. The award was presented on Saturday, Oct. 21, at the Massachusetts Library Trustees Association conference in Shrewsbury. “I was extremely surprised and honored to be awarded Massachusetts Library Trustee of Year at the Mass. Library Trustees Association conference in Shrewsbury,” said Johnston. “The library is such a vital part of our community, and it has been a pleasure to give back to my town through my role as a trustee. Westborough is a fantastic community to live in, and I truly believe it’s important for residents to find a way to get involved so that Westborough continues to thrive for years to come.” Johnston joined the trustees six years ago and was elected chair five years ago. “There was an impressive nomination pool of trustees from libraries across the state, and Mary rose to the top,” said Westborough Public Library Director Maureen Amyot, who submitted the nomination for Johnston. “‘Outstanding performance’ doesn’t even begin to encapsulate her work on behalf of the library.” Amyot’s nomination focused on Johnston’s work with the library building project. “Around the time she joined
Mary Johnston (left) with Westborough Public Library Director Maureen Amyot
the board, the library was on the waiting list for a construction grant from the Mass. Board of Library Commissioners. Johnston joined the Library Building Committee, and was elected secretary. In the time between the award announcement in the summer of 2022 and the Fall Town Meeting, Johnston and Amyot gave numerous public presentations,” said Amyot. During the fall Town Meeting in October 2022, Johnston and Amyot presented the project and fielded questions from voters. The article failed by five votes. “The weeks following the defeat were extremely difficult for staff, to say the least. Mary arrived that first week with chocolate and a heartfelt card letting us know she cared,” said Amyot. A petition brought back the library project for a Special Town Meeting in December,
STAY SAFELY IN YOUR HOME!
but it was again defeated. “Following the second defeat, Mary was a rock for me and the whole staff,” said Amyot. “When I asked for a Professional Development Day she approved it immediately, and I brought in a counselor from the Employee Assistance Program to help staff work through the grief, shock and anger they felt toward community members who they felt betrayed them. “She was there for me personally as well, through my struggle to deal with my own feelings about it but having to be strong and empathetic for my staff at the same time. And she continues to always be there for all of us. She has worked with me on creating goals for the new fiscal year, encouraged me to do frequent Staff Development Days, and is always the library’s biggest advocate in the community.” In addition, Johnston has helped with numerous events at the library. “She’s the first one to raise her hand when we need help at a library event. It’s not unusual to find her serving pizza at our annual Open House, helping with crowd control at our Haunted Library, or scooping ice cream on Sundae Sunday,” said Amyot. “Mary is one of the most outstanding trustees I’ve had the pleasure to work with in my career. I am so thankful she joined the board here, because she truly makes a difference. Her love for this library matches my own, and I can’t wait to see what’s next while she is a trustee.”
4,889
WE WILL INSTALL THIS $ STAIRLIFT FOR ONLY
Experience the freedom and convenience that SAFE & EASY TO USE effortless mobility can bring to your daily life! • Pressure sensitive surfaces on carriage and footrest stop the unit from moving if there is an obstruction.
• Battery operated - Works even when you lose power Volt DC operation - eliminates electric shock risk. •• 24 Safe around pets & children! • Stairlift remains operative • Plugs into a standard wallduring outlet blackout. Whisper quiet operation. •• Swivel Remote controls - Call it or send from and bottom! seat locks in position at 45itand 90top degrees. • LIFETIME Easy to use control switch on the of the armrest EVEN WITH WARRANTY ONendALL PARTS... • Mounts directly to the steps - NOT the wall A LIGHTNING STRIKE! • Weight capacity 350lbs. Footrest and seat flip up neatly out of the way • Grease free! Clean with a feather duster - Not greasy rack-and-pinion like other brands
SAME/NEXT DAY INSTALLATION
Watch our informative video
Call today for FREE information (508) 990-5250
*Folds to just 10 1/2 inches!
&
POLICE
COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 3, 2023 • 19
FIRE
Child pornography charges brought against Shrewsbury robotics mentor By Evan Walsh Reporter SHREWSBURY – The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced on Monday that Brian Lingard, 60, of Shrewsbury, who has served as a volunteer adult mentor for the Shrewsbury High School Robotics program since 2013, was arrested on charges of possessing and transporting child pornography. Lingard appeared in the U.S. District Court in Worcester on Oct. 30. According to a press release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Lingard’s phone had 23 images depicting child sexual
abuse material of children who appear to be under 10 years old. A subsequent search of devices stored at Lingard’s residence revealed an additional collection of alleged sexual abuse material. According to an email from Shrewsbury High School Principal Todd Bazydlo to high school families, the complaint also indicated that Lingard also possessed multiple images of fully clothed females who appear to be minors. The images were allegedly focused on their buttocks and appear to take place in a school setting. According to Bazydlo, agents with the Department of Homeland Security deter-
mined through geolocation data that at least some photos were taken at Shrewsbury High School between 2018 and 2023. “While the U.S. Attorney’s Office indicates that these images are not considered child pornography and are not part of the criminal charges, this information is deeply disturbing nonetheless,” Bazydlo wrote. Lingard passed all his required CORI and criminal background checks while volunteering in Shrewsbury, according to Bazydlo. The charge of transportation of child pornography provides for a sentence of not
Worcester man charged with defacing firearm serial number By Laura Hayes Managing Editor SHREWSBURY – A Worcester man faces firearm-related charges following a traffic stop in Shrewsbury. According to the statement of facts filed in Westborough District Court, Shrewsbury officers pulled over a vehicle near 420 Hartford Turnpike at about 11:11 a.m. Oct. 14. While the officer was speaking to the driver Benjamin Russin, 33, the officer said Russin’s pupils were “extremely restricted.” Russin allegedly told the officer that he had smoked marijuana and drank two alcoholic “nips.” After he stepped out of the car, police saw a fanny pack in front of the driver’s seat. Inside
Benjamin Russin faces several charges, including carrying a firearm without a license.
less than five years and up to 20 years in prison, up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of possession of child pornography provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of $250,000.
Bazydlo encouraged anyone who may have questions or any information to contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office Project Safe Childhood hotline at (617) 748-3274 to speak with a victim witness advocate. Bazydlo also said people could call his office at (508) 841-8800.
POLICE LOG Due to space constraints, this week’s police log will be running online only. The police log will return in a future edition of the Community Advocate. The police log and other police and fire news can be accessed online at https://www.communityadvocate.com/category/police-fire/. The information in the police log is obtained directly from the official records maintained at each police station in our circulation area. Those arrested are innocent until proven guilty. The Community Advocate will publish news of acquittals upon notification and a copy of court issued documentation. The below is a representation of this week’s police log. Some calls lacking severity have been omitted due to space constraints.
Scan QR code to read this week’s police and fire news on our website.
15% OFF Your Next Order (Mention This Ad)
the fanny pack was a revolverstyle firearm that was loaded with five rounds. According to the statement of facts, when the officer inspected the firearm, the serial number had been scratched off. Russin was charged with carrying a firearm without a license, carrying a firearm without a license while it was loaded,
defacing a firearm serial number and possession of ammunition without a FID card. He was arraigned in Westborough District Court on Oct. 16 where he pled not guilty. Russin will return to court on Nov. 14. An attorney representing Russin did not immediately respond to request for comment.
*ATTENTION CONTRACTORS*
Celebrating our
1 YEAR ANNIVERSARY at our new office!
Eat, kiss, and smile with more confidence. F A M I LY A N D C O S M E T I C D E N T I S T R Y
OVER 500 PROFILES IN STOCK IN-STORE PICK UP OR FREE NEXT DAY DELIVERY Contact: Anthony Caruso, Store Manager
NOW OPEN! SHREWSBURY SHOWROOM AND STORE
SONGBIRD DENTAL IS LOCATED AT 235 MAIN STREET H A P P I LY A C C E P T I N G N E W P A T I E N T S
Songbirddental.com | 235 Main Street, Shrewsbury | 508-842-8100
614 Boston Tpke (Rt 9), Shrewsbury, MA nextdaymoulding.com • 781-843-6666 x3 • shrewsbury@ndmoulding.com
20 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 3, 2023
COMMUNITY CLASSIFIED Interested in placing a FOR SALE • SERVICE • YARD SALE • RENTAL • PRAYER • CAREER MARKETPLACE ad? Contact Cindy at 508-366-5500 or send an email to cindy@communityadvocate.com. We’ll design your ad for you! CLASSIFIED DEADLINE IS FRIDAY AT NOON, ONE WEEK PRIOR TO PUBLICATION DATE
HOME REPAIR & SERVICES
MEDIA
RESIDENTIAL CLEANING
SMALL ENGINE
Call Sue! (508)756-9842
Tune-ups & Repairs
Full time/Year-round. Pest Control Technician needed 21+, valid driver’s license with good driving record. Training, health insurance & company vehicle. Send resume to dennis@ransfordes.com or call Dennis at 508-756-5197
FREE ESTIMATES GREAT REFERENCES
CALL CINDY AT 508-366-5500 TO PLACE YOUR CAREER MARKETPLACE AD
Call Bob 774-303-1155
QUICK REMOVAL SERVICE You call John it will be gone! Clean-out attics, basements, garages, sheds, etc. Demolition services. We also have dumpsters. Senior Discount. Fully insured. Best prices. Member of BBB. Master and Visa card. Call anytime 978-897JUNK, cell 978-460-1192. www.quickremovalservice. com. ChiefQRS@Aol.com
C & S CONSTRUCTION Commercial-Residential Snow Plowing/Salting SERVING SHREWSBURY AND NORTHBOROUGH AREA. 24 hour service/ 7 days a week Free Estimates
508-926-8798 or 508-450-0803
Home Improvement Professionals
All Types of Home Repair & Remodeling Odd Jobs, Maintenance & Much More! Licensed Bonded Insured
Proudly serving you since 1996
(508) 366-3690 www.mrhandyman.com MA HIC #146014 / MA CS #107504
BJ’s Wholesale Club, Inc. seeks
Sr. Application Development Analyst, RPA.
Efigenia Cleaning
Marlborough, MA
Focuses on developing robotic process automation (RPA) scripting with UiPath’s platform of assigned processes. Master’s degree + 2 yrs. exp. or Bachelor’s + 5 yrs. exp. Qualified Applicants send resume to: Chris Rouleau, crouleau@bjs.com, 350 Campus Drive, Marlborough, MA 01752
Need a Message of Hope?
House | Office Free Estimates & Great References
508-250-2114
Inspirational Messages
ANSWERS
• Full Service • Commercial& Residential Call 508-658-9040 for a FAST FREE estimate
Caring Hands ------------------
TTRRY BEFORREE YYOU BUY!!
• Companionship • Transportation • Errands • Pet Visits • Home Waiting Services • Residential Checks • Home/Office Organization • And much more!
24 Hours Everyday
Fuller rV RENTALS & SALES
CLASS A, B+ AND C MOTORHOMES, TRAILERS, PROPANE Family Owned & Operated
------------------
Celebrating 39 Years in Business
Jim Noble 508-889-6444
508-869-2905 www.fullerrv.com
150 Shrewsbury St. Boylston
Call Dial-A-Friend
(508) 852-5242
100% LOCAL CONTENT Mailed to you every week
J&K
Leave the cleaning to us!
AUTO
Call
Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.
Every home is special
HOME CARE
ROOFING
Perfecting the art of keeping your home dry!
NEW ROOFS RE-ROOFS GUTTER CLEANING ICE DAM REMOVAL 508-393-1868
100% FREE!
Lic # 134804
Receive the #1 newspaper in your community delivered to your mailbox each week!
25 Years of Experience Interior/Exterior • Free Estimates
Joseph Lucier Owner/Painter
508-873-5930
Josephlucier57yahoo.com
W.E.S.
PLASTERING
Small Repairs Ceilings • Re-Skimming Bill Speckman
508-366-3785
DOG WALKING Dependable & Affordable Westborough Only
Call Jen
508-948-5324
It’s easy to subscribe: Email your name and address to
news@ communityadvocate.com
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).
Scan QR code to read all of this week’s obituaries on our website.
DEATHS Ainsleigh, Patricia of Westborough Bandzul, Scott formerly of Hudson Berg, Jeffery formerly of Shrewsbury Cassanelli, Francine of Shrewsbury Culkins, Joseph of Hudson, Gregoire, Sandra of Hudson Harris, John of Shrewsbury Hillcoat III, James formerly of Hudson and Marlborough Hutsik, Maria of Southborough Judson, John formerly of Shrewsbury Kentel Jr., Peter of Southborough Klein, Christopher of Westborough LeDuc, Marie of Marlborough Mario, Mary of Marlborough Nosek Jr., Walter of Hudson Ross, Dorothy of Westborough Soderholm, Elizabeth formerly of Southborough Thomas, Thomas “TJ” formerly of Southborough
Christopher R. Klein, 48 WESTBOROUGH - Christopher “CK” Robert Klein, 48, of Westborough, p a s s e d away peacefully at home with family close by on Monday, October 16, 2023, after a courageous battle with cancer. He is the beloved husband to Michelle (Bonacquisti) Klein. In addition to his wife, he is survived by their daughter Lauren (15) and their son Christopher (12); his mother Susan of Palm Beach Gardens, FL and her late partner Gary Purucker, who passed away the day after Chris; brother Andrew, his wife Anna (Vavruska) and their daugh-
ter Carolina; father-in-law Anthony and mother-in-law Thérèse Bonacquisti; sisterin-law Maria (Bonacquisti) McDermott, her husband David and their sons Christopher, Ryan and Nick; brotherin-law Michael and his wife Susan; brother-in-law Mark, many loving friends, aunts, uncles and cousins, and their “obedient” family dog Hilton. The Pickering & Son Upton Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
Thomas J. Thomas, 41 DORCHESTER - Thomas J. (TJ) Thomas, 41, passed away Wednesday, October 18, 2023, at home in Dorchester, MA. He was the son of Lynda J. Thomas of Falmouth, MA and Thomas G. Thomas of Port Orange, FL. TJ was born in Natick, MA and grew up in Southborough, MA. Thomas also leaves his sister, Whitney Thomas of Bolton, MA, her wife, Jaime Mills, and their son, William. He also leaves several dear aunts and uncles, cousins and cherished friends. The Morris-Johnston Funeral Home of Southborough assisted with arrangements.
Jeffery E. Berg, 55 SHREWSBURY - Jeffery E. Berg, 55, formerly of Shrewsbury, passed away on Sunday, October 1, 2023, at Serenity Hill Nursing & Rehabilitation. Jeff leaves his high school sweetheart and wife of 32 years, Amy S. (Watson) Berg of RI and his father, John C. Berg of Wareham. He was predeceased by his mother, Judith M. (Cartier) Berg in 2016. Jeff also leaves his sister, Christine Fantoni and husband Mark of Marion; his brother, John Berg and wife Paula of Wakefield; his sisterin-law, Nancy Watson; his brother-in-law, Christopher Watson and wife Cheryl; his
sister-in-law, Ellen Nuzzolilo and husband John. The love Jeff had for his nieces and nephew was immeasurable. He treasured the strong connections he had with them and spoiled them every chance he could. They include Kelsey Mansfield, Torie Cohen, Jamie Berg, Nicole Fantoni, Rachael Fantoni, Kathlyn Morgan, Cailey Watson, Samantha Nuzzolilo and Christian Nuzzolilo. Jeff also leaves 13 great-nieces and nephews. Britton-Shrewsbury Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
Dorothy M. Ross, 96 WESTBOROUGH - Dorothy M. “Dot” (Dunne) Ross, o f We s t borough, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2023, at the age of 96. She was the wife of the late Melvin R. Ross, who died in 1991. She leaves behind two sons and daughters-in-law, Melvin and Jeannine Ross of Oxford, and Joseph and Carmen Ross of Fitchburg. She was predeceased by a son, Stephen, and two daughters, Amy and Elizabeth. She also leaves behind fifteen grandchildren and thirty great grandchildren. She is survived by two sisters, Mary Naples and Eileen Flahive, and predeceased by her brother, James Dunne. Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
Patricia A. Ainsleigh, 87 WESTBOROUGH - Patricia A. (White) Ainsleigh of Westborough MA, 87, died on October 20, 2023, in her home in Westborough. She was born in Lewiston, ME to Melvin and Helen White. Patricia is survived by her brother David White and his wife Lynn of Florida; her sister-in-law Terry White of Norway ME; her daughter Sherry Mowatt of Grafton,
COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 3, 2023 • 21
son-in-law Allen Mowatt of Ashland and their children Sarah Leary, Jessica Brosnihan and Alexander Mowatt; her daughter Cathy Mauro, son-in-law Dan Mauro of Grafton and their children Danielle Mauro, Ryan Mauro, and Hilary Steele; her son Michael Ainsleigh of Northborough, his partner Leeza Clark, his former wife Jenson and their children Austen Troescher and Madison Ainsleigh; her daughter Susan Ainsleigh and son-in-law Terence Gorman of Millbury; her daughter Ellyn Abramo, son-in-law Jeff Abramo of Worcester and their daughter Devin; and he daughter Alicia Ainsleigh and her son Brendan Pierce-Ainsleigh, eight great-grandchildren (Sydney, Skylar, James, Kelsey, Robert, Andrew, Lyla and Gracen) and many, many friends including her close friend and roommate Lillian. She is pre-deceased by her former husband George L. Ainsleigh, formerly of Ashburnham, Ma. and her brother Larry White of Norway ME. The Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
Scott E. Bandzul, 63 WEST BOYLSTON - Scott E. Bandzul, 63, of West Boylston, MA, formerly of Hudson, MA, and Stow, MA, passed away peacefully surrounded by the people he loved on Wednesday, October 18, 2023 at UMass Memorial Medical Center, University Campus in Worcester, MA. Scott leaves his loving partner of 26 years Linda S. (Milton) Malo of West Boylston, MA; Linda’s children, Micaela and Joseph; his sister Pamela F. Bandzul of Stow, MA; his brother John H. Bandzul and his wife Wendy of Hudson, MA along with his nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Relatives and friends are invited join Scott’s family for a “Celebration of Life” on Saturday, November 11, 2023 from 11 to 2 p.m. at the Boxborough Regency Hotel & Conference Center, 242 Adams Place, Boxborough, MA 01719.
Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted with arrangements.
Sandra J. Gregoire, 85 HUDSON - Sandra Jean Gregoire, 85, a lifelong resident of Hudson, MA, died on Friday, October 20, 2023 at the Reservoir Center in Marlborough, MA. Sandra was born in Marlborough, MA, daughter of the late Willow and Amelia (Palchouskas) Gregoire. She was raised in Hudson, MA attending local schools and was a 1956 graduate of Hudson High School. Maria College during her career. She was a member of Saint Michael Parish in Hudson, MA. Sandra is survived by her sister-in-law Kathleen Gregorie, wife of the late Robert W. Gregorie who died in 2022. She is also survived by her nephew John Gregorie and his husband Derek Morley of Chicago, IL; her niece Danielle Gregorie of Hudson, MA and her great niece Drew Murphy. Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted with arrangements.
Maria J. Hutsick, 71 SOUTHBOROUGH - Maria peacefully moved beyond this earthly life on October 20, 2023. Born on August 11, 1952, to the late Casimir “Tony” and Lucy (Lampazzi) Hutsick, Maria is survived by her wife Christine Basile of Southborough, MA, her siblings John Hutsick, Diane Aragon, Toni Watson, Joseph Hutsick and the late Paul Hutsick, and many beloved nieces and nephews. The Morris-Johnston Funeral Home of Southborough assisted with arrangements.
22 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 3, 2023
LEGAL NOTICES Scan QR code for rate information or to email your legal notice.
SOUTHBOROUGH Notice is hereby given by Ted’s of Fayville, 300 Turnpike Road., Southborough, MA 01772, pursuant to the provisions of G.L. c. 255, section 39A, that on Wednesday November 15, 2023 at 10 am an auction sale on the web based site of http://sta.ibidsmart.com the following motor vehicles will be sold to satisfy our garage keeper’s lien thereon for storage, towing charges, care and expenses of notices and sale of said vehicles. Starting November 1, 2023 at 9 am, vehicles can be viewed at http:// sta.ibidsmart.com. This is not an absolute auction we reserve the right to set a minimum on all auction vehicles. If a particular vehicle is not listed on http://sta.ibidsmart.com call 508-485-0503 for bidding instructions. 2010 Lexus RX450H
VIN: JTJBC1BA0A2008145 Owned by Stanislaus Hardon 2007 Honda Pilot VIN:2HKYF18657H526038 Owned by Carlos M Garrastegui Rivera 2003 Honda Accord Vin: 1HGCM55623A091560
MM, GOOD!
Owned by Stiven J Joaquin 2010 Honda Civic VIN: 2HGFA1F59AH543488 Owned by Briana S Ford 2008 Dodge Ram 1500 VIN: 1D7HU18208J188226 Owned by Marco A Lopez 2007 Buick LaCross VIN: 2G4WD582371216159 Owned by Gerard P Brennan 2012 Jaquar XF VIN: SAJWA0FB2CLS25671 Owned by: Troy Leatherwood 2006 Acura MDX VIN:2HNYD18606H517142 Owned by Catherine Ayala-Escobar 2005 Honda Pilot VIN: 2HKYF18605H551751 Owned by Jorge D Rodriguez-Gonzalez 1981 Suzuki GS450 VIN: JS1GL52AXB2104800 Owned by Lucien Berube 2014 Ram 1500 VIN: 1C6RR7FT5ES115722 Owned by Imperial Construction Masonry, Inc 2009 Toyota Prius VIN: JTDKB20UX93470887 Owned by Miguel A Santiago 2002 Lincoln LS VIN: 1LNHM87A62Y628262 Owned by Brian Johnson 2013 Hino 268 VIN: 5PVNJ8JT5D4S54859 Owned by: W and D Transportation LLC This notice has been given under the provisions of G.L. c. 255, Section 39A. Publication Friday October 27. November 3 and 10, 2023 Community Advocate.
Call 508.366.5500 to advertise your legal notice
MARLBOROUGH CITY OF MARLBOROUGH PLANNING BOARD MARLBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS 01752 LEGAL NOTICE Public Hearing – Proposed Zoning Amendment to Chapter 650 “Zoning” to amend §22 “Retirement Community Overlay Districts” to include Map 39, Parcels 5 and 26B located on Robin Hill Street. Notice is hereby given that the Planning Board of the City of Marlborough will hold a PUBLIC HEARING on Monday, November 13, 2023, at 7:00 PM in Memorial Hall, 3rd floor, City Hall, 140 Main Street, Marlborough, Massachusetts to amend Chapter 650, §22 “Retirement Community Overlay Districts” to include Map 39, Parcels 5 and 26 B on Robin Hill Street. THAT, PURSUANT TO § 5 OF CHAPTER 40A OF THE GENERAL LAWS, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MARLBOROUGH, HAVING RECEIVED FOR ITS CONSIDERATION CHANGES IN THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF MARLBOROUGH, AS AMENDED, TO FURTHER AMEND CHAPTER 650, NOW ORDAINS THAT THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF MARLBOROUGH, AS AMENDED, BE FURTHER AMENDED AS FOLLOWS: 1. By amending the Zoning Map established by Section 650-8, “Boundaries Established; Zoning Map”, by superimposing the Retirement Community Overlay District,
RCO-D/T and RCO-MF, over Assessors Map 39, Parcels 5 and 26B; and 2. By amending certain provisions of Section 650-22, “Retirement Community Overlay Districts”, as follows (new text underlined, deleted text in strikethrough):
said land is specifically removed from the said Retirement Community Overlay District.
A. Purpose. The purpose of the Retirement Community Overlay District shall be to advance the public health, safety and welfare by providing for the development of retirement communities that provide housing choices for persons aged 55 or over on sites which are otherwise zoned for other purposes but which, because of the size of the parcel being developed and its proximity to other residential neighborhoods and/or residential amenities and supportive services, will provide an appropriate environment for a retirement community. [Amended 4-8-2019 by Ord. No. 18/19-1007452G]
C. Permitted uses. All permitted uses must comply with the appropriate provisions of Article V and Article VII, except as otherwise specified herein or as otherwise approved by the City Council as part of the Special Permit process. In addition to those uses which are allowed, either as of right or by special permit, in the underlying district of any land which has been included in the Retirement Community Overlay District, the City Council may, by special permit in accordance with § 650-59, permit a retirement community-detached and townhomes or and a retirement community-multifamily, as defined in § 650-5 except as otherwise set forth herein, consistent with the following provisions: [Amended 3-10-2003 by Ord. No. 039944B; 4-25-2011 by Ord. No. 111002806-1A; 4-8-2019 by Ord. No. 18/19-1007452G]
B. Location. For the purposes of this section, a Retirement Community Overlay District shall be considered superimposed on the other districts existing at the time that any land in any said underlying district is also included in the Retirement Community Overlay District. The rezoning of any or all of the land included in the Retirement Community Overlay District from one underlying zoning classification to another shall not affect its inclusion in the Retirement Community Overlay District, unless
(1) Retirement community - detached and townhomes (RCO-D/T). (a) No building in an RCO-D/T community shall be more than 2 1/2 stories in height. (b) Each building in an RCO-D/T community shall face either upon an existing street or upon a public or private way constructed within said RCO-D/T community and shall have a minimum front yard of no less than 20 feet from the edge of the paved way to the closest point of the structure and a side yard of
§ 650-22. Retirement Community Overlay Districts.
SUPER CROSSWORD
Answers on page 20
COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 3, 2023 • 23
LEGAL NOTICES not less than 10 feet from the edge of the paved way to the closest point of the structure. Each building, whether principal or accessory, shall be at least 10 feet distant from any other building by airline distance between the nearest points of the buildings. (c) No dwelling in an RCO-D/T community shall contain less than 1,000 square feet of living area or more than 2,400 square feet of living area. (d) All dwelling units in an RCO-D/T community shall be detached from the others or attached only along side walls in the so-called “townhouse” style. (e) The lot or lots on which an RCO-D/T community is located shall contain, on a consolidated basis, at least 7,000 square feet per housing unit. (f) No part of any principal building in an RCO-D/T community shall be less than 25 feet from any exterior lot line or less than 50 feet from the side of any public way. (g) Each dwelling unit in an RCO-D/T community shall have its own attached yard area. (h) Required off-street parking for each dwelling unit in an RCO-D/T community shall be adjacent thereto. Each unit shall be required to provide at least one parking space inside a garage and an additional space in front of a garage, said garage to be attached to said unit. The City Council may, as a condition of its special permit, require additional off-street parking areas to be used in common by dwelling unit owners and their invitees. In addition, the City Council may, as a condition of the special permit, require the adoption of legally enforceable condominium bylaws or other similar regulations to limit or prohibit the presence in an RCO-D/T community, either entirely or except in designated locations, of boats, boat trailers, campers, or other recreational vehicles. (i) Maximum combined lot coverage in an RCO-D/T community shall not exceed 40% of the total lot size. (j) Each lot or contiguous lots upon which an RCO-D/T community is located shall have total frontage on an existing public way of at least 250 feet. Each lot or combination of lots shall have a total size of not less than 10 acres. The underlying zoning district for all said land shall be either Industrial or Limited Industrial. (k) The City Council may, as a permit condition, require that all proposed condominium bylaws or similar binding RCO-D/T community regulations which may be relevant to the issuance of the permit, including but not limited to bylaw provisions prohibiting the presence of children residing in an RCO-D/T community and limiting or prohibiting the presence in a RCO-D/T community of boats, boat trailers, or recreational vehicles, be made a part of the special permit and that any change to or failure to enforce said provisions shall be a violation of said special permit.
(l) The City Council may, as a permit condition, require that a proposed RCO-D/T community be constructed entirely on one lot, and that, from and after the date of the issuance of the building permit for said community or any portion thereof, no subdivision of said lot shall be allowed without the express approval of the City Council; provided, however, that the recording of a condominium master deed and the conveyance of condominium units within the area covered by said deed shall be allowed. (m) No unit in an RCO-D/T community shall have more than three bedrooms. (n) If an RCO/DT community is proposed which contains at least 30 acres of land, the following provisions shall supersede those found elsewhere in § 650-22: [1] The lot or lots on which an RCO/DT community is located shall contain at least 5,000 square feet per unit in the RCO/DT community; [2] Maximum lot coverage in the RCO/ DT community shall not exceed 50% of the total lot size, excluding from the lot size any land which, prior to development of the site as a RCO/DT community, would be defined as a “resource area,” as that term is defined in MGL c. 131, § 40. [3]Each lot or contiguous set of lots upon which a RCO/DT community is located shall have total frontage on an existing public way, or on a private way laid out by the City Council pursuant to MGL c. 82, § 21, of at least 250 feet; provided, however, that said frontage need not be continuous. (2) Retirement Community - Multifamily (RCO-MF). (a) The total area of the tract of contiguous parcels to be developed as an RCO-MF shall not be less than 10 acres. The underlying zoning district for all said land shall be either Industrial or Limited Industrial and be located: (i) within the area that lies within the perimeter of the following roadways: commencing at the Fitchburg Street intersection at the Route 85/290 Connector Road; then west along the Route 85/290 Connector Road to the intersection of Route 495; then south along Route 495 to where it passes over the intersection with Berlin Road; then southeasterly along Berlin Road to the intersection with West Hill Road; then easterly along West Hill Road to the intersection with Pleasant Street; then north along Pleasant Street to the intersection with Fitchburg Street; then north along Fitchburg Street to the intersection with the Route 85/290 Connector Road, all of said land being in reasonable proximity to the UMass Memorial Marlborough Hospital and the interstate highway intersection of Route 495 and Route 290; or (ii) within an area designated by the City Council through an amendment to the Zoning Map. (b) An RCO-MF may contain one- and two-bedroom units and studio units
Call 508.366.5500 to advertise your legal notice for independent living persons, and may include services and amenities for its residents, including but not limited to, dining facilities, in-unit kitchens, common rooms, activity rooms, exercise rooms, theater, chapel, library, pharmacy/gift shop/ convenience store, beauty salon, barbershop, personal banking services, offices and accessory uses or structures, concierge and valet services, third-party vendor services, and recreation facilities. (c) No building in an RCO-MF shall be more than three four stories in height. Subsurface parking levels shall not be considered a story, and there shall be no limitation on building height beyond the maximum of four stories. (d) The total number of multifamily dwelling units in an RCO-MF shall be limited to 12 units per acre, which may be located in multiple multifamily buildings within an RCO-MF and on a single parcel. (e) No part of any principal building in an RCO-MF shall be less than 50 feet from any exterior lot line or less than 100 feet from any municipal public way. (f) Maximum combined lot coverage in an RCO-MF, including any permitted accessory structures, shall not exceed 40% of the tract or contiguous parcels. (g) The tract or contiguous parcels upon which an RCO-MF is located shall have a minimum total frontage on an existing public or private way of at least 200 feet. (h) The City Council may, as a permit condition, require that all proposed condominium bylaws or similar binding RCO-MF regulations which may be relevant to the issuance of the permit, including but not limited to bylaw provisions prohibiting the presence of children residing in a retirement community and limiting or prohibiting the presence in a retirement community of boats, boat trailers, or recreational vehicles, be made a part of the special permit and that any change to or failure to enforce said provisions shall be a violation of said special permit. (i) The City Council may, as a permit condition, require that a proposed RCO-MF be constructed entirely on one tract and that, from and after the date of the issuance of the building permit for said community no subdivision of said tract shall be allowed without the express approval of the City Council; provided, however, that the recording of a condominium master deed and the conveyance of condominium units within the area covered by said deed shall be allowed. (j) A minimum of 1.0 parking space per dwelling unit shall be provided in an RCO-MF. Attached and detached garages shall count toward this parking requirement. (k) No dwelling unit in a multifamily building with three or more stories in an RCO-MF shall contain less than 500 square feet of living area or more than 1,300 1,600 square feet of living area. (l) No building in an RCO-MF need be
located or placed further from the exterior line of any street or public way than the average distance from such street or way line of the dwellings or other principal buildings located on the lots adjacent thereto on either side. In determining such average, a vacant side lot having a frontage of 50 feet or more shall be considered as though occupied by a building having the required setback, and a lot separated from the lot in question only by a vacant lot having a frontage of less than 50 fee shall be deemed an adjacent lot. The point of measurement of the average distance shall be from the closest point of the principal building to the street or public way regardless of parcel ownership. (m) In an RCO-MF, there shall be provided with each multifamily building a landscaped area equal to the greatest single floor area of the building, provided that such landscaped area may include undisturbed natural areas, such as (n) vegetated areas, woodlands, wetlands and floodplain areas. (3) Retirement Community – Combined RCO-D/T and RCO-MF. (a) The City Council may, by special permit, authorize a retirement community development with combined RCO-D/T and RCO-MF components on a single parcel or more than one contiguous parcel. (b) The City Council may, by special permit, elect to vary the dimensional, parking, design, open space, and landscaping requirements applicable to a combined RCO-D/T and RCO-MF retirement community development upon finding that such change shall result in an improved design and will not nullify or substantially derogate from the intent or purpose of this section (§650-22 et seq.). This authority continues subsequent to occupancy. Per Order of the City Council #23-1008964
HUDSON HUDSON CONSERVATION COMMISSION LEGAL PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Hudson Conservation Commission will hold a Public Hearing relative to the following filing under the Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. Chapter 131, Section 40) as requested by Shrewsbury Homes, Inc. The owner of the property is Paul Carney. The work is located at Lot 5 Brigham Street (MapParcel 72-15 Lot 5). The proposed project is constructing a single-family home in Buffer Zone to Bordering Vegetated Wetlands. The Public Hearing will be held via remote video conference on November 16, 2023 at 7:00 pm. Please contact the Conservation Commission Office for information on joining the meeting: phelinek@townofhudson.org
or 978-562-2948. All interested parties are urged to attend. The application can be obtained through email by contacting the Conservation Commission Office.
WESTBOROUGH LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REQUEST TO AMEND WESTBOROUGH, MA In accordance with the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, MGL Chapter 131, Section 40, and the Westborough Wetlands Protection Bylaw, the Conservation Commission will conduct a Public Hearing to be held on November 14, 2023 after 6:30 PM at the Forbes Municipal Building, 3rd Fl meeting room, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA, for a Request to Amend an Order of Conditions with DEP File #332-941 for 37 Belknap St (Map 11; Parcel 1) submitted by John & Brianne White for the addition of a proposed driveway extension, grading, and landscaping associated with a new single-family home within jurisdictional resource areas.
FAMILY AND PROBATE LAW INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE Docket No. WO23P3689EA Commonwealth of Massachusetts The Trial Court Worcester Division Probate and Family Court Estate of: Margaret A. Dhionis Date of Death: August 11, 2023 To all persons interested in the above captioned estate by Petition of Petitioner Christopher P. Dhionis of Southport NC A Will has been admitted to informal probate. Christopher P Dhionis of Southport NC has been informally appointed as the Personal Representative of the estate to serve without surety on the bond. 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.
24 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 3, 2023
COMMUNITY BUSINESS
New doctor joins Bryan Dental Associates PHOTO/LAURA HAYES
SHREWSBURY – Bryan Dental Associates in Shrewsbury is welcoming a new associate, Dr. Nelson Zhang, a skilled dental professional with a strong educational background and a passion for oral health. Dr. Zhang, a native of Berwyn, Pennsylvania began his journey to dentistry with his undergraduate studies at Tufts University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biomedical engineering. He continued his educational pursuit by achieving his Doctorate of Dental Medicine in 2023 from Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine. He will now be working alongside Dr. Eric Bryan, a Shrewsbury local who attended Shrewsbury High School. Dr. Bryan holds a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and graduated from the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. His commitment to
Dr. Nelson Zhang (right) has joined Dr. Eric Bryan at Bryan Dental Associates.
service also led him to serve three years in the U.S. Army, where he completed a one-year residency in advanced general dentistry while serving in the U.S. Army 10th Special Forces. Returning to his hometown in 1999 with his family, Dr. Bryan joined his father at Bryan Dental Associates, continuing a legacy of exceptional dental care that the community has relied on. “After he retired in 2017, my staff and I have continued on, providing excellent dental care to our patients,” Dr. Bryan remarked. Bryan Dental Associates is dedicated to serving patients of all ages, starting from three years
old and beyond. Their comprehensive services cover a wide range of dental needs, including oral hygiene and preventative care, restorative oral surgery, root canals, bleaching, and full mouth reconstruction. Dr. Bryan highlighted the commitment of his staff, stating, “My exceptional staff of hygienists, assistants, and front desk personnel maintains their knowledge of the latest devel-
opments in dentistry through continuing education.” Convenience and accessibility are key priorities for Bryan Dental Associates. The practice accepts most insurance plans and major credit cards, making quality dental care accessible to a broad spectrum of patients. Located on the first floor of 48 Maple Avenue in Shrewsbury, the office is open Monday through Thursday, from 7:30
a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information about Bryan Dental Associates, their services, and appointment scheduling, please visit https://www.bryandental. net/ or call 508-842-0941. With the addition of Dr. Nelson Zhang, Bryan Dental Associates reaffirms its commitment to providing outstanding dental care and maintaining a legacy of service to the Shrewsbury community.
Clinton Savings Bank donates $10,000 to Shrewsbury police SHREWSBURY – The Shrewsbury Police Department will be able to purchase a portable message board, thanks to a donation from Clinton Savings Bank. “With a population of almost 40,000, public safety is always one of our first priorities,” said Chief Kevin Anderson. “We are grateful to have Clinton Savings Bank in our town and to partner
with them to enhance the safety of our community together.” The bank donated $10,000 to the department. The board will allow the police department to display messages for road work, inclement weather, safety and town events. “Since our beginning in 1851, we have been committed to being a local leader in each of the communities we serve.
When we opened our seventh branch in Shrewsbury this past March we were thrilled to finally bring our services and support, starting with this donation, to the town, said President and CEO, Robert J. Paulhus, Jr. “We are eager to continue to serve the local people and businesses with these values at the forefront of what we do every day.”
Serendipity jewelry, art & whimsy! 63 Main St., Hudson
• ELECTROLYSIS • AESTHETICS • LASER HAIR REMOVAL LAUREN DAVID, R.E. ESTHETICIANS: JESSICA SOLIGON • STEPHANIE PAGLIONE LOCATED INSIDE NORTHBOROUGH MEDICAL CENTER 112 MAIN ST · SUITE 101 NORTHBOROUGH 508-393-2517 · LUXEELECTROLOGY.COM @LUXE_STUDIOMA
Jewelry & Craft Classes
Wed & Thurs evenings 6-8 pm Saturday mornings 11 am Please call 978-562-7756 in advance to reserve a spot in our workshops. www.serendipityinhudson.com Wed Nov 8 Thur Nov 9 Sat Nov 11 Wed Nov 15 Thur Nov 16 Sat Nov 25 Thur Nov 30
NOVEMBER WORKSHOPS
Needle Felting Fun: Holiday Ornaments 6 PM $38 Spiral Crystal Wrapped Bracelet 6 PM $45 Scallop Shell Decoupage 11AM $30 Gobble, Jingle, Pop! 5–8 PM Join the fun at our amazing holiday kick-off party & sale. Coastal Window 6 PM $48 SHOP SMALL Day!! 0pen 10–7 PM Thanks for supporting your local gallery shop! Whimsical Holiday Earrings 6 PM 3 pair $40 & Sparkling Crystal Snowflakes 2 for $40
Metrowest Oral Associates John P. Ouano, D.M.D. Wael Youseff, D.M.D. Jennifer Frangos, D.D.S. Mitchell Loo, D.M.D. Monika Patel, D.D.S.
Scan for more information
Milford • Northborough • Framingham
www.MetrowestOralSurgical.com
COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 3, 2023 • 25
COMMUNITY BUSINESS
Westborough officially welcomes Rakks
PHOTO/MAUREEN SULLIVAN
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor WESTBOROUGH – For the past 50 years, the Towfigh family has designed and manufactured shelving for museums, universities, hospitals and businesses around the world. After working out of spaces in Malden, Waltham, Millis and Needham, the family’s firm, Rakks, has found a home on Turnpike Road. On Oct. 27, the Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of Commerce officially welcomed Rakks with a ribbon cutting and reception. Leili Towfigh, the daughter of founder Keivan Towfigh and the firm’s CEO, conducted a tour of the facility, which moved into the Shakour building in 2021. “The company has injected new life into the building,” said Mark Zepf, the town’s economic development coordinator. The front end of the building includes office space, with cubicles made with Rakks products. During the tour, Rakks staff showed the products made “in house” with sustainable materials. “Everything is made in Massachusetts,” said engineer Connor Pinson as he showed shelving with sliding brackets that secure with a clamp. That way, “it lets you create all kinds of space,” he said. Later in the tour, Pinson helped present Rakks’ “starter kits” — a box containing everything to create a 3-by-3-foot shelving unit. The kits come in five finishes; everything in the box, down to the small bags containing the screws, are recyclable. The back of the facility includes the warehouse and production units. Here, staff can make shelving in custom sizes. The equipment ranges from robotic welders to the pinning machine designed and built by
Keivan Towfigh in the 1970s. The facility features extra insulation and rooftop solar panels. During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Rakks staff received citations from the state House of Representatives and Senate, as well as a warm welcome from the chamber. “One of the happiest days in my life is when I got the call that ‘we’re coming to town’,” said Karen Chapman, President and CEO of the chamber. For information about Rakks, visit https://rakks.com/ contact-us/.
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor NORTHBOROUGH – RenovoMD celebrated its 15th anniversary with a ribbon cutting in front of its Northborough location on Oct. 26. “When we first started, we were pioneers in this industry,” said RenovoMD Owner and Medical Director Jean Casello. “To think that 15 years later we’re still going strong, it’s heartwarming. It’s really humbling.” RenovoMD offers a wide variety of aesthetic treatments, including Botox and dermal fillers, laser skin resurfacing and CoolSculpting. Members of the Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of Commerce and Reps. Meghan Kilcoyne and Kate Donaghue and Sen. Robyn Kennedy’s office gathered to mark the anniversary. President and CEO of Corridor 9/495 Karen Chapman said the anniversary deserved a round of applause.
RenovoMD staff, Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of Commerce and state officials held a ribbon cutting Oct. 26.
PHOTO/LAURA HAYES
Members of the Towfigh family cut the ribbon to officially open Rakks on Turnpike Road on Oct. 27.
RenovoMD celebrates 15 years
“Hearing your personal story, being a renaissance woman to get into this particular industry and still be here today, it’s an amazing story to share. It is my great honor to be here to do that for you and your team,” said Chapman. She continued, “Congratulations to all of you. You have so much to be proud of. The service that you’re offering — speaking as a woman personally — I’m all in. If I can look better and feel better about myself, why wouldn’t we want to do that. Well done to all of you.” During the ribbon cutting, the state officials presented Casello and her staff with citations from the state House and
Senate. “This is one of the better parts of our jobs because we get to learn about businesses that we might not have been aware of,” said Kilcoyne. She said she loved when herself and Donaghue could visit businesses, particularly those owned by women. “Any endeavor looking to make women and men, for that matter, feel better about themselves, enhancing their own confidence, enhancing their best features is a great thing,” Kilcoyne said. RenovoMD is located at 96 W. Main St., Suite A, Northborough. For more information, call 508-393-6398 or visit https://renovomd.com/.
NothingBundtCakes.com NothingBundtCakes.com NothingBundtCakes.com NothingBundtCakes.com
Servicing Central MA & Beyond.
NothingBundtCakes.com NothingBundtCakes.com
Worcester-Shrewsbury Worcester-Shrewsbury Boston Turnpike 98 Boston98 Turnpike Worcester-Shrewsbury Shrewsbury, Worcester-Shrewsbury Shrewsbury, MA 01545MA 01545 98 Boston Turnpike (508) 98 Boston Turnpike Worcester-Shrewsbury(508) 753-2253 753-2253 MA 01545 Worcester-Shrewsbury Shrewsbury, MA 01545 98Shrewsbury, Boston Turnpike (508)MA 753-2253 98 Boston Turnpike (508) 753-2253 Shrewsbury, 01545 05/31/24 05/31/24 Shrewsbury, MA 01545 (508) 753-2253 05/31/24 (508) 753-225305/31/24 05/31/24
05/31/24
We offer discounts to veterans, senior citizens, and first responders.
26 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 3, 2023
Westborough Office Space
Convenient to Routes 9, 495 and the Mass Pike
Office tenants may select from a variety of floor plans and rental options.
COMMUNITY BUSINESS
Whitco Sales, Inc.: wide variety, low prices, community favorite By Evan Walsh Reporter
8 Lyman Street Beautiful contemporary building located directly above bank tenant.
1 Vacancy 795 SF
33 Lyman Street 4 floors of first class office space with a soaring atrium foyer and ample parking.
4 Vacancies
24 Lyman Street
2 Vacancies
Wonderfully appointed 2nd floor space ideal for office or medical tenant. 1st floor features fully built-out space for medical use. Building features underground parking.
For leasing information call Dona Colangelo, RPA
Progressive Realty Consultants 508.366.4163 • westboroughshoppingcenter.com
SPENCER – Whitco Sales, Inc. has seen lots of change since 1955. The business, which started selling toys and bicycles, expanded into the movie rental and electronics space in the 1980s. In the 1990s, Whitco finally landed on selling appliances, something they’ve continued doing to this date. Although the store’s inventory has changed, much hasn’t. Whitco has been family-owned-and-operated for the last 60-plus years, and the company has remained committed to having low prices, an extensive selection, and exceptional service. “We keep it going. We keep the tradition going. All these places have gone out of the business and we’re the last survivors. We’re the last man standing. There’s a reason; we take care of our customers, we have great prices, good service. We do a lot of things right,” said Whitco Owner William White. In an industry dominated by big-box retailers, Whitco stands out from the crowd. Whitco — small but mighty — often has better prices than larger competitors on many appliances. The company’s in-store prices are often lower than advertised online. Whitco employees genuinely care, and can offer personalized service big-box competitors can’t match. Whitco will help you find the right product. “If you have a problem with big-box stores, you might as
Whitco has been a family owned and operated business for the past 60-plus years.
well take a mirror, put it in front of your face, and talk to yourself. Unfortunately, that’s sometimes what it comes out to with the big brands,” White told the Community Advocate. Appliances are Whitco’s bread and butter — the company has been named the number-one appliance vendor for the last two years by the Telegram & Gazette — but, true to the business’s roots, Whitco has numerous different products, including airconditioning units, cooking equipment, electronics, grilling equipment, dishwashers, laundry machines, vacuums, and more. “It brings people together. Our demographic group is huge — that’s why we succeed. We help everybody; it’s a good situation,” said White. “People call us the Spag’s of Spencer.” Whitco has an extensive selection, but perhaps more impressively, most of the products are immediately available. White said that always having products in stock is “key.”
“People need something quick,” he said. “We have a huge warehouse stuffed to the brim with products. We have it in stock; you don’t need to wait.” The service, the prices, the availability, the variety: It’s no wonder that Whitco is incredibly successful. The company has amassed thousands of loyal customers. “They love us. The only people who don’t like us are our competitors. We strive to do the right thing. Our intentions are always good,” said White. “We provide people with what they need at an excellent price.” Whitco is located at 140 Main Street in Spencer. For more information on the company, please visit Whitco’s website at https://www.whitcosales.com/ Business Profiles are advertising features designed to provide information and background about Community Advocate advertisers.
Accepting new patients! A Multi-Specialty Family Dental Practice Dr. Mehdi Karimipour, Cosmetic Dentist/Prosthodontist Dr. Emily Eleftheriou, Cosmetic/General Dentist Dr. Jenn Wei, Endodontist
307 GRAFTON STREET • SUITE 203 • SHREWSBURY WWW.SHREWSBURYDENTIST.COM
508-842-8838
Call today!
COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 3, 2023 • 27
COMMUNITY SPORTS
Westborough notches double-overtime victory over Marlborough By Evan Walsh Reporter
worked with Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, to speak to the players. “Last year’s team, when they faced adversity, was notorious for saying, ‘We know what’s going to happen, we know we’re going to lose this game,’” said Beveridge. “We were fortunate to have him talk to these guys. The mentality of ‘next play.’ The previous play doesn’t impact the next play… To these guys’ credit, they bought in and they executed the way they needed to in the second half.” Petralia noted that the players had effectively shifted their attitudes in the locker room prior to the second half. “It was definitely a shift in the locker room. I talked to the boys, got their heads out of their butts a little bit, and then we locked in and secured it,” he told the Community Advocate after the game. The game went into overtime knotted at 13, and after
both squads scored touchdowns and converted 2-point tries in the first overtime, the Rangers and Panthers went into the second overtime period tied at 21. Marlborough started with the ball in double overtime, and although the team quickly found the end zone, Westborough’s defense held when it mattered most, thwarting the Panthers’ 2-point attempt. Moments later, Petralia’s touchdown and game-clinching 2-point conversion secured the win for Westborough. “Coach [Ryan] Dailey has done an outstanding job all year… putting these guys in a great spot, making the game plan simple, and [we’re] able to execute… Ryan was able to bring them all in and give specific details on who needs to be where. These guys executed,” said Beveridge. The Westborough sideline erupted as Petralia sealed the
KINDNESS KINDNESS ❤ WEEK KINDNESS ❤ WEEK NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 5-11 5-11 ❤5-11 NOVEMBER WEEK Join us for
❤ ❤❤
Westborough’s Camden Petralia runs the ball upfield during the Rangers’ game against the Marlborough Panthers Oct. 27.
easily could’ve folded, they easily could’ve said, ‘This isn’t our game,’ but they didn’t… They act like a family. Nobody cares who scores, nobody cares who gets the ball, nobody cares who makes the tackle. They just want to win,” Beveridge said.
Join Join us us for for Join us for
westboroughconnects.org westboroughconnects.org
Kickoff Kickoff Event Event Begins Begins NOVEMBER 5, 2023 @ 2-4PM 5, 2023SCHOOL @ 2-4PM ❤ NOVEMBER WESTBOROUGH HIGH Kickoff Event Begins westboroughconnects.org WESTBOROUGH HIGH SCHOOL ❤❤ ❤ westboroughconnects.org ❤❤❤
❤
PHOTO/EVAN WALSH
MARLBOROUGH – After four quarters, three hours, and two overtimes, the battle between the Westborough Rangers and Marlborough Panthers on Oct. 27 came down to one play. Both “boroughs” battled fiercely, but Westborough pulled out the 29-27 comefrom-behind win after Camden Petralia’s game-winning 2-point conversion in double overtime. With the eyes of the stadium upon him, Petralia ran to the right, carefully evaded several incoming defenders, looked ahead at his offensive lineman and scampered into the end zone “Everyone knew it was a run play. It was just an attitude play: punch it in, follow my blocks,” Petralia said. Petralia’s 2-point conversion secured Westborough football’s first Mid-Wach-B title in over 20 years. Westborough seemed nervous as the team trotted off Kelleher Field for halftime. “We were shooting ourselves in the foot — the penalties, the turnovers. Unfortunately, the kids knew what was on the line — with the playoff berth and the league championship and all that stuff — and they wanted it so bad that they were too tense. They were tight in the first half, they were afraid to make mistakes… We were so nervous about screwing up that we screwed up,” said Westborough Head Coach Joe Beveridge. Although the first half had been difficult for the Westborough squad, the Rangers quickly erased the 13-0 deficit almost as soon as play resumed. Westborough quickly gained momentum and immediately drove down the field; the Rangers scored their first points on Dan Hackett’s 50-yard touchdown reception. Jake Martin intercepted Marlborough on the Panthers’ next possession, and Westborough’s Andrew Pisciotta quickly evened the score with a touchdown run. Working through adversity had been something Westborough’s coaching staff had emphasized in the preseason. The team brought in George Mumford, a globally-recognized sports psychologist who has
game, sprinting to the corner of the end zone to celebrate. The Rangers, who had gone 1-10 each of the last two years, were now league champions, winners of seven-straight games and heading to the playoffs. “Their resilience is outstanding. Kudos to them; they
❤
❤
NOVEMBER 5-11
Drop-In Activities for all-ages5, hosted2023 by several Partners in Kindness NOVEMBER @ 2-4PM 2-4PM NOVEMBER 5, 2023 @ Drop-In for all-ages hosted by several Partners in Kindness MUSICActivities • SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES • REFRESHMENTS
Kickoff Event Begins
WESTBOROUGH HIGH ❤❤❤ WESTBOROUGH MUSIC • SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES REFRESHMENTS HIGH•SCHOOL SCHOOL
Drop-In Activities for all-ages hosted by several Partners in Kindness westborough connects Drop-In Activities for5, all-ages hosted by several NOVEMBER 2023 @ 2-4PM MUSIC • SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES • REFRESHMENTS westborough connects Partners in Kindness
WESTBOROUGH HIGH SCHOOL
westborough
connects
MUSIC • SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES • REFRESHMENTS Drop-In Activities for all-ages hosted by several Partners in Kindness MUSIC • SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES • REFRESHMENTS
westborough
connects
28 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 3, 2023
Visit Our Beautiful Showroom, or Call for a Free Consultation at Your Home!
508-762-9095 www.spotlightkitchens.com
★★★★★
Give your room a fresh look with the best lighting fixtures.
Kitchen & Bath Transform your kitchen with the best cabinetry, countertops and lighting! Proud Member
86 SHREWSBURY STREET, WORCESTER