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Chorus to offer singing valentines

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Vol. 50 | No. 4 | January 26, 2024

McInerney settles in as Northborough town administrator

Toblin Hill Drive bridge completed, neighborhood reunited

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

PHOTO/EVAN WALSH

The Toblin Hill Drive bridge is back in operation.

By Evan Walsh Reporter SHREWSBURY – It took years of of planning and construction, but the Toblin Hill neighborhood has been reunited. Toblin Hill Drive — which is located off Walnut Street, close to Floral Street — leads to a neighborhood of roughly 40 homes. The road heads east, winding around, connecting to several cul-de-sacs en route. Roughly 500 feet from the start of Toblin Hill Drive, it passes over a low-lying stream with a bridge connecting both sides of the neighborhood. In 2016, the bridge — constructed in the 1990s — was closed indefinitely. The concrete was cracked, a large sinkhole opened under the bridge, and pieces of the 50-foot-long structure fell into the stream below. The bridge was deemed unrepairable, and chain link fences soon surrounded the crumbling infrastructure. Bright orange signs were put along Walnut Street advising passersby of the broken bridge. The residents who lived on the other side of the bridge weren’t stranded — they could leave the neighborhood by using Nursery Drive, which connects Toblin Hill Drive to Walnut Street — but the neighborhood was split nonetheless. The street was home to many middle-school-age children, and with the bridge closure, they could no longer walk across the bridge to Toblin Hill Park. The Toblin Hill Drive houses located closToblin Hill | 12

NORTHBOROUGH – It’s been over a month since Tim McInerney began serving as town administrator. “There are great people who work for this organization. It makes my job so much easier,” he said. The staff carry themselves with professionalism and are courteous and aware of democratic principles and the New England form of government. Those attributes are critical, he said. Since he joined the town, McInerney has been introducing himself to the various Northborough boards and committees. He said the level of volunteerism in town was “impressive.” “Going around and meeting the boards and committees has been amazing just because of the level of commitment,” McInerney said. McInerney | 9

Tim McInerney is Northborough’s new town administrator.

After water damage, Westborough seeks to replace Hastings Elementary School roof By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor WESTBOROUGH – The heavy rainstorms that inundated the region earlier this month has led Westborough Public Schools (WPS) to add a request to this spring’s Town Meeting. The roof at Hastings Elementary School “has basically failed,” Superintendent Amber Bock told the School Committee during its meeting on Jan. 17. During the first heavy rain on Jan. 9, Bock went to Hastings to inspect the damage. She said that when she arrived and entered the building, “six-seven tiles” had landed on the floor, and “water was pouring through.” Walking through the building, there were multiple areas of water entry and damage. “We were fortunate that the majority of

damage was contained to the middle area of the building and hallways areas, which saved us from classroom damage,” said Bock. The roof was cleared of snow and emergency repairs were made. After a second heavy rain on Jan. 13, Bock said there were “no new leaks.” Bock said the main cause is the rubber used to protect the roof from the elements. “It breaks down over time,” she said. In addition to filing insurance claims, WPS is seeking an override with the state’s Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance, and it is preparing a draft warrant article for Town Meeting. Bock said the schools will seek funds to replace the roof. The Hastings roof is the same age as the Armstrong roof, which also Hastings | 14

PHOTO/LAURA HAYES

2 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, January 26, 2024

COMMUNITY NEWS Singing valentines could be coming to your neighborhood

“

By Cindy Zomar Contributing Writer REGION – For more than 15 years, Ashley Lang has been donning her festive Valentine’s Day clothing and joining her fellow vocalists to bring a little Valentine’s Day joy to local residents. Lang is a member of the women’s choral group, Women of Note, based in Northborough. Singing valentines have become a tradition and one of the group’s best fundraisers. Several of their award-winning quartets — and even two quintets this year — accept requests to serenade an unsuspecting recipient at their home, office, school, nursing home, or in restaurants. “We have also been to bus depots, radio stations, ice cream parlors, and even a cemetery once,” Lang recalls. To advertise the heart-

The young man popped the question after we sang, and she said ‘Yes!” Ashley Lang

The quartet, Life’s a Peach, from the local group Women of Note are shown here as they deliver a singing valentine to a lucky recipient. Left to right, the singers are Jane Thie, Ashley Lang, Amy Harker, and Sherri Avery.

warming service, the group has been using Facebook, their website and hanging flyers in libraries and cafes across central and eastern Massachusetts.

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It would seem that the romantic gesture does sometimes reap big rewards. Lang shared a particularly memorable event, “The young man popped the question af-

ter we sang, and she said ‘Yes!” The charge, regardless of distance, is just $50 for two songs and a card, while an additional $10 will buy a rose or a box of chocolates. The front

page of their website provides a form to fill out with directions on how to pay through PayPal. If the loved one is too far away for an in-person visit the group will arrange to do a singing valentine on the phone for just $15. For more information, visit https:// womenofnote.org/.

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, January 26, 2024 • 3

Shrewsbury nomination papers now available By Evan Walsh Reporter

THE

OVER TOP

PHOTO/TAMI WHITE

WESTBOROUGH – This photo shows the roof at Hastings Elementary School. According to Westborough Public Schools Superintendent Amber Bock, the roof has “basically failed.” Heavy rain inundated the region earlier this month and resulted in the district canceling classes at Hastings due to roof leaks. Read more about the project on pg. 1.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

The Community Advocate’s Policy on Letters to the Editor

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.

news............................... 2 senior page..................... 8 schools ......................... 14

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history........................... 16 obituaries...................... 17 legal notices.................. 18

David Bagdon

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: 508.930.9022 MANAGING EDITOR: Laura Hayes ASSISTANT EDITOR: Maureen Sullivan PROJECT EDITOR: Brett Peruzzi REPORTER: Evan Walsh EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: Debra Roberts ADVERTISING DEPT:

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SHREWSBURY – Nomination papers are now available for Shrewsbury’s town election. The papers must be submitted to the town clerk’s office by March 19 at 5 p.m. According to the town’s website, at least 50 signatures of Shrewsbury voters are required for all non-Town Meeting member positions. There are several townwide office positions to be decided this election cycle. • Moderator (one seat, three-year term) • Select Board member (one seat, three-year term) • School Committee (one seat, three-year term) • Shrewsbury Housing Authority (one seat, five-year term) • Trustee of Public Library (three seats, three-year term) • Trustee of Public Library, to fill vacancy (one seat, oneyear term) Town Meeting member candidates must submit at least 10 signatures from voters within their precinct. Current Town Meeting members were sent a letter in January 2024 to confirm their interest in re-election. If the letter is not returned by Feb. 27, the candidate will need to pull nomination papers and obtain signatures to appear on the ballot. Each of Shrewsbury’s 10 precincts will select eight members for three-year terms. There are also vacancies to fill. • Precinct 4 (one vacancy, two-year term) • Precinct 5 (one vacancy, two-year term) • Precinct 7 (one vacancy, one-year term) • Precinct 8 (two vacancies, two-year terms) The Shrewsbury town election will take place on May 7, 2024. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

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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 Shrewsbury, MA 01546 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.

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ourbon is a quintessentially American spirit that embodies a rich heritage and distinctive flavor profile that sets it apart in the world of whiskey. Primarily crafted from a mash bill (grain combination) containing at least 51% corn, bourbon acquires its unique character from the charred new oak barrels in which it matures. These barrels contribute warm caramel and vanilla notes, and a deep amber hue. The stringent regulations surrounding bourbon production mandate that it must be distilled to no more than 160 proof, entered into the barrel for aging at no more than 125 proof, and bottled at a minimum of 80 proof. This meticulous process results in a smooth, slightly sweet whiskey with a robust and complex taste. While corn is what creates bourbon’s sweet flavor, other grains such as rye, wheat, and malted barley are added for a more complex flavor. Other types of whiskeys might only use one grain. This is another factor in the distinct flavor characteristics of bourbon. The Spirits department at JULIO’S LIQUORS carries many hard-to-find items from single malt scotches to high-end vodkas and gins. Please call 508-366-1942 for more information, or visit us at 140 Turnpike Rd., Rt. 9 East. P.S. Bourbon is often enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as the foundation for classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Mint Julep.

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4 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, January 26, 2024

COMMUNITY NEWS

Congregational Church of Westborough kicks off 300th anniversary By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor WESTBOROUGH – Hannah Breck Parkman marveled as she wandered about the sanctuary at the Congregational Church on Jan. 21. Such strange wonders for someone who had traveled three centuries. “I wish Rev. Parkman could see this church,” she said. She recalled the congregation’s previous location, where the Rev. Ebenezer Parkman would often have to deal with a leaky roof, vermin on the floor and very drafty rooms. But now? A large, well-lit and well-heated sanctuary, with a choir, women deacons and a woman minister. Of course, there was no woman named Hannah Parkman who magically appeared. Hannah Parkman was portrayed by Catherine Achorn, the chair of the church’s 300th anniversary committee. She came in period dress to announce some of the events planned for the church’s big celebration. The schedule On Monday, Feb. 5, at 7:15 p.m., the Women’s Fellowship Group will be sponsoring a

Catherine Achorn, the chair of the Congregational Church of Westborough’s 300th anniversary committee, comes in the guise of Hannah Breck Parkman to announce some of the events planned. At right is the Rev. Betsy Dorsi.

PHOTO/MAUREEN SULLIVAN

program open to the whole community in the vestry (fellowship hall) of the church, presented by Tom Morgan, “300 Years and Counting.” He will give a presentation about the church’s beginnings, including pictures of how it’s changed over the years. The official kickoff will be on Sunday, Feb. 11, following the church’s 10 a.m. service. There will be a pancake brunch and a skit with some of the church’s younger members.

On Wednesday, Feb. 14, the church will conduct a special Ash Wednesday service in the Parkman chapel. This space houses the original pulpit used by Ebenezer Parkman in the 1700s and his Bible. The Parkman chapel dimensions are the same as the original meeting house. On Sunday, March 3, there will be special communion service with the deacons — a throwback to colonial times when deacons would take

communion on behalf of the entire congregation. On Sunday, March 17, after the 10 a.m. service, church members plan to pack 30,000 meals for the Worcester County Food Bank. Achorn said there are many activities either planned or in the planning stages. This includes the Founders Day celebration on Sunday, Oct. 27, at 3 p.m. This is to commemorate the first service at the church on Oct. 28, 1724. Past ministers

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and employees, town officials and state officials have been invited. The church will also stage its 68th annual Evergreen Christmas Fair on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. First Congregational will also take part in townwide activities such as Main Street trick-or-treating and the Winter Stroll. Achorn added that special music programs are scheduled for Easter and Christmas. The Congregational Church of Westborough, United Church of Christ, is at 57 West Main St. For program updates and other information, visit https://uccwestboro.org/.

Nomination papers available for Northborough election NORTHBOROUGH – Nomination papers are now available for the town election on May 14. There are several seats on the spring ballot, including: • Moderator • Select Board (two seats) • Planning Board (two seats) • Northborough School Committee (two seats) • Regional School Committee (two seats) • Assabet Valley Regional School Committee So far for the Select Board race, incumbent Julianne Hirsh has pulled papers as has Michael Tietjen. Planning Board incumbents Kerri Martinek and Anthony Ziton and School Committee incumbent Kelly Guenette have also obtained papers. Gigi Lisa Howell has pulled papers to run for the Northborough and Regional School Committee, as of Jan. 23. At least one seat on the Regional School Committee will be up for grabs as Karen Ares is not running for re-election, according to the candidate tracking sheet. The deadline to pull nomination papers is 5 p.m. March 8. Nomination papers must be returned by 5 p.m. March 12. For more information, visit https://www.town.northborough.ma.us/home/news/ nomination-papers-available-may-14th-annual-townelection.

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, January 26, 2024 • 5

COMMUNITY NEWS

Next steps for families in Northborough’s emergency shelter By Laura Hayes Managing Editor NORTHBOROUGH – Some of the families in Northborough’s emergency shelter program may be moving to an Auburn shelter. There were 29 families —

or 101 individuals — in the emergency shelter in Northborough. The town was notified on Jan. 2 that the families were going to be moved to a hotel in Auburn as part of the state’s consolidation plan, according to interim Health

Director Isabella Caruso, who provided an update to the Select Board Jan. 8. The Auburn shelter will be staffed by a shelter service provider. She said the families were originally going to move on Jan. 8, but that date was moved following a meeting

Changes coming to Finance Department By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor WESTBOROUGH – Jason Little, who was appointed finance director just a couple of months ago, has decided to return to his old position in Northborough. During its meeting on Jan. 9, the Select Board voted to appoint Chief Assessor Jon Steinberg as interim finance director. “I thank Jon for being willing to step up,” said Town Manager Kristi Williams. The appointment was among several moves designed

to upgrade the finance department, which Williams called “short staffed.” In this spring’s Town Meeting warrant, Article 23 will ask to separate town accountant duties from the finance director; the town accountant would become its own position. There will also be a request for $30,000 to help pay for a new position of administrative assistant/payroll clerk. This position was a recommendation from Little. Williams received the Select Board’s approval to add the position immediately. The town recently began

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searching for qualified candidates. Another vacant position, treasurer/collector, is currently being filled with contracted services. Williams said several candidates have been interviewed, and the position could be filled soon. Select Board member Shelby Marshall said the timing of these changes — as the town is planning for the 2025 fiscal year budget — was not the greatest (“It’s not the best place to be,” she said), but she also acknowledged that it was “a great opportunity.”

with town officials and the local legislators to Jan. 18. Caruso said the staff worked with the school district and other providers to secure transportation for students who want to continue to the Public Schools of Northborough and Southborough. “A lot has been going on to ensure this transition is as smooth as possible,” said Caruso. She also shared data on where the families stood in terms of employment and permanent housing. According to Caruso, 38 out of the 57 adults have obtained full-time employment. Of the 29 families, 24 families have at least one member working full-time, and 15 families have two adults working. Twenty-two families have connected with at least one property owner and were ready to apply to the state’s HomeBASE program through Central Massachusetts Housing Alliance (CMHA).

“We’re really getting these families on their feet, ready to get out of the shelter system,” said Caruso. CMHA has proposed to the state maintaining the coordination of housing and services for the majority of the Northborough families that are working and striving to find housing. That will be the state’s decision, Caruso said. Those 22 families would continue to stay in town, and the other seven families would move to Auburn. A cco rd i n g to Ca r u s o, CMHA’s proposal states that for any of the 22 families who have haven’t been accepted into the HomeBASE program or found housing by May, CMHA would strive to bring the families into their shelter. “I just need to say how impressed I am with the staff of how they’ve handled this. We became advocates for the right thing for these folks down there,” said Town Administrator Tim McInerney.

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6 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, January 26, 2024

COMMUNITY NEWS

SELCO receives national commendation for mutual aid efforts By Evan Walsh Reporter SHREWSBURY – Shrewsbury Electric & Cable Operations (SELCO) recently helped other towns in need. On Jan. 4, SELCO received an official commendation from the American Public Power Association for its support in electric power restoration efforts in Calais, Maine, and Wallingford, Conn. On Dec. 19, SELCO sent one crew of two linemen to Wallingford to assist the Wallingford Electric Department. The town had suffered widespread outages as a result of a windstorm on Dec. 18. After helping, the crew — which consisted of Jerry Ago and Jon Bishop — was dispatched to the Eastern Maine Electric Cooperative from Dec. 21 to Dec. 24. Ago and Bishop worked 16- to 18-hour days to restore power to New England homes before the holidays. According to an official statement by SELCO, the men

have power for theirs. They also gained valuable outage restoration experience and practices that will benefit them and SELCO during the next major weather event.” SELCO General Manager Christopher Roy said that “mutual aid is incredibly valuable not just to the community in need of assistance, but also to

the crews who get to experience the gratitude of helping those in need while testing their skills when people need it most.” SELCO participates in the American Public Power Association’s Mutual Aid Network, which coordinates with utilities and authorities during widespread power outages.

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WESTBOROUGH – The town is in the process of updating its Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP). Residents are invited to take part in an online community survey to provide input. In July 2023, the town started the planning process to update its HMP. An updated plan will help the town identify strategies to reduce its vulnerability to hazards such as flooding, winter storms and drought. By participating in this survey, you will help the town understand the current and future natural hazards that residents are most concerned about. Survey responses will be accepted until Wednesday, Jan. 31. Access the survey via the town’s website, www.westboroughma.gov.

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, January 26, 2024 • 7

COMMUNITY NEWS

Solomon Pond Mall donates winter clothing

PHOTO/MAUREEN SULLIVAN

Mark Willand, marketing director for Solomon Pond Mall; Meredith Harris, executive director, Marlborough Economic Development Corp.; Jennifer Bray, resource development manager for the United Way of Tri County; Ward 1 City Councilor Mark Vital; and Lisa Kelley, general manager for Solomon Pond Mall.

WASA’s Ice Out Challenge underway

PHOTO/MAUREEN SULLIVAN

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor MARLBOROUGH – Thirty boxes, plus five big bags of winter clothing are en route to those who need it most. On Jan. 18, Solomon Pond Mall wrapped up its annual holiday drive by presenting the winter clothes to representatives from Sweats for Vets and the United Way. Jennifer Bray, resource development manager for the

United Way of Tri County, said the clothing would be sent along to the Community Cupboard in Marlborough, as well as the food pantry on Pearl Street in Framingham. Mark Vital, Ward 1 city councilor, accepted donations on behalf of Sweats for Vets, which helps provide sweatshirts for homeless veterans. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to give back to the community,” said Lisa Kelley, general manager for the mall.

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By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor WESTBOROUGH – The Ice Out Challenge is underway. Over the weekend of Jan. 20, the Westborough Athletic and Social Association installed the “WASA” ice sculpture on the lawn of Hastings Elementary School on East Main Street. All are welcome to guess

when the sculpture will melt to its plywood base. Each guess will cost $5, with all proceeds to benefit WASA’s scholarship fund. For those unable to stop by to see the sculpture, WASA will have a live feed. To access the entry form, or for more information, visit www.westboro.org/iceoutentry.

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8 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, January 26, 2024

Aging Gracefully

Seniors

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

on the move

NURSING HOMES VS RETIREMENT HOMES Understandably, there can be some confusion regarding nursing homes and retirement homes. However, they are not the same. Retirement homes are private facilities built explicitly for retirees to give them independence, recreational activities, socialization opportunities, and medical facilities in the area. Residents can remain for years. Nursing homes are for seniors who need regular attention, whether physical or mental. Specific qualifications for admission must be met, such as a doctor’s order or certification from the state. High-quality facilities are like hospitals that offer entertainment and age-appropriate recreational activities and therapy services. Residents can stay for years or a few months. Families can rest easy knowing their older loved ones are safe and happy with people their age. While nursing homes may receive public funding from the government, retirement homes are private entities and do not receive any government funding. At NOTRE DAME LONG TERM CARE CENTER, we can provide the necessary care to help residents maintain the best quality of life possible. To learn more, please call (508) 852-3011. You can also schedule a tour of our facilities at 559 Plantation Street. P.S. Regardless of which option you choose to pursue, ask for recommendations from health care providers or home health nurses.

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, January 26, 2024 • 9

COMMUNITY NEWS

McInerney settles in as Northborough town administrator McInerney | from page 1

Meet Tim McInerney McInerney grew up in Lowell. As a child, his father would watch City Council meetings on local cable. “I grew up watching local cable with my father yelling at the TV about the manager and what he did or didn’t do, what City Council just said or the mayor just said,” he said. “I think he inspired me in a lot of ways to have a common sense approach to things and not to lie.” Many of his family members have connections to government in some capacity. His father worked for the state and his sisters worked for a public university, the Internal Revenue Service, the department of public health and the department of public welfare. McInerney received his degree in political science from Suffolk University and his master’s in public administration from the University of South Carolina. His education background is important as McInerney says it gave him the underpinnings for real life. McInerney did an internship for Sen. Ted Kennedy, which he called an “adventure.” He also worked with learning-disabled adults in London and went to Westminster College in Oxford. While at the University of South Carolina, McInerney was a South Carolina fellow and was assigned to the house Ways and Means Committee. He also worked for Lexington County during which McInerney said he learned the “ins and outs” of management from the perspective of local government. McInerney said he loved the fact that staff worked to run an organization, not thinking about profit, but thinking about how to minimize the impact to the people who paid the bill. “I think that’s the motivation; that’s what inspires you to do the things that need to be done, but do them as efficiently as possible. That’s not always easy, and you can’t always do it. There are so many competing interests every day,” he said. McInerney said he’s had some forays into the private sector. He owned a Coldstone Creamery for a while in

Seekonk. A large storm resulted in the store losing power and all of their product. The Coldstone never reopened, he said. These different work experiences have helped McInerney become aware of where people may be at, be open and see situations from the whole proverbial field.

“I have these levels of governmental experience that has made me, I guess, the leader that I am today,” he said. “All of those practical learning experiences helped shape me, mold me.” While McInerney has worked at many different levels of government, he said that one can make the most impact

working at the local level. He said the core philosophy is striving to be good stewards of the community’s money. “We want to provide transparency and provide good information so those people can make a good decision,” McInerney said. He said the community should go through a visioning

process and formulate its core mission statement and values. The process may make it easier to make decisions about situations, such as the future of the White Cliffs mansion, when the community agrees to underpinning beliefs. “That is not an easy thing to do, but it would be a good thing to do,” he said.

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10 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, January 26, 2024

COMMUNITY NEWS

Small Stones Festival of the Arts announces new site, dates GRAFTON – The 2023 Small Stones Festival of the Arts has announced a new schedule and venue for the sixth annual fine art and photography juried exhibition. It will run Jan. 27-Feb. 4 at the Brigham Hill Community Barn, 37 Wheeler Road. The free exhibit is open to the public. The festival will open on

Saturday, Jan. 27, from noon to 5 p.m. The awards ceremony will take place at 2 p.m.; artist talks will begin at 2:30 p.m. in the gallery. The exhibit will be open Sunday, Jan. 28, from noon to 4 p.m.; Tuesday, Jan. 30, from 6 to 9 p.m.; Wednesday, Jan. 1 and Thursday, Feb. 1, from noon to 4 p.m., with extended hours

on Friday, Feb. 2, and Saturday, Feb. 3, from noon to 6 p.m. The festival will continue on Monday, Feb. 4, with exhibit hours from noon to 4 p.m., and juror talks at 2 p.m. This year the festival received a grant of $2,500 from the Massachusetts Cultural Council as well as additional grants provided by the towns

of Grafton’s and Millbury’s cultural councils administered through the nonprofit organization. A distinguished panel of six jurors (three for each category) have selected 144 works to appear in the exhibit and printed catalog. The hardback exhibit catalog is for sale online and at the festival. All submissions

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meeting minimum requirements are featured in the festival’s web gallery. Distinguished fine art jurors include Michael Rose, gallery manager of the historic Providence Art Club, art historian and columnist; Glenn Murray, an award-winning contemporary realist painter; and Kim Morin Weineck, a fine art artist who works in all mediums and is a signature member of the Pastel Painters Society of Cape Cod. The photography jurors are composed of three photographers — Ron Rosenstock, Shane Gutierrez and Tom Nault. Awards will be given for both fine art and photography categories — cash prizes of $500 for first; $250 for second; and $100 for third. Additionally, each of the six jurors select a juror’s choice. The public votes for a popular choice winner in each category. For more information, visit https://smallstonesfestival.org.

Grafton OKs new contract for town administrator By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

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GRAFTON – Evan Brassard will continue to be town administrator for three more years. On Jan. 16, the Select Board signed a new contract to keep Brassard on board. According to the terms, the contract will run from Feb. 28, 2024, through Feb. 28, 2027. For the first year, Brassard will receive a base salary of $185,000; this will increase to $190,000 for fiscal 2025 and $195,000 for fiscal 2026. In addition, the town will contribute $17,500 for the first year, $18,500 for the second year, and $20,000 for the final year in deferred compensation. The town will also pay for professional development, such as dues, classes and conferences. He is eligible for group insurance benefits, and he will have four weeks’ vacation per year. He will also have the use of a municipal vehicle, along with a computer, smartphone and other technology. Brassard will be subject to an annual evaluation by the Select Board.

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, January 26, 2024 • 11

COMMUNITY NEWS

Westborough offers small business recovery grants

Charity kickball tournament Feb. 17

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

HUDSON – The 21st annual Snowflake Charity Kickball Tournament will take place on Saturday, Feb. 17, at the Hudson Elks (back field), Brigham Street. Team check-in will be at 8 a.m. This year, the main beneficiary will be Brianna Briggs, a 13-year-old who was diagnosed with an aggressive glioma brain tumor. Her parents are out of work to help take care of her and bring her to Boston for treatments. There are several ways to help: Form a team; entry fee is $300. Teams must consist of

WESTBOROUGH – The town’s Economic Development Committee is offering grants to small businesses financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Small Business Recovery Program, funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), will offer grants of up to $5,000. These grants can be used

toward rent of mortgage payments; utility payments; payroll or employee benefits; insurance; marketing costs; or COVID-19-related expenses. “We want to try and help smaller businesses,” said Mark Zepf, the town’s economic development coordinator. “That $5,000 might help you get through that month, help you pay two-three bills. This might make the difference.” To be eligible, a business

Marlborough Library hosting Donor Appreciation Night MARLBOROUGH – The Marlborough Public Library Foundation will hold a Donor Appreciation Night on Saturday, Feb. 10, from 6 to 9 p.m. The event will include a music scavenger hunt and a cash bar with hors d’oeuvres. Come dressed in your best and celebrate the donors who helped make the library expansion possible. “This is our way of saying

thank you to all of those who have supported our efforts over the past few years,” said Janice Merk, vice president of the foundation. This event will be for adults 21 years and older. Dress code will be upscale. RSVP by Feb. 1 to marlpublibfoundation@ gmail.com, or call 508-624-6900. An online RSVP link will be available soon.

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must be located in Westborough; demonstrate the pandemic’s negative impact to the business; have fewer than 35 full-time employees; have less than $1.5 million in annual revenue; have started operating in town no later than Jan. 1, 2020; and be in good standing with the town. “The rules are pretty simple,” said Zepf. According to Zepf, because the funds are coming from a federal source, applicants are required to show proof of financial hardship during the pandemic. Applications will be accepted through Feb. 28. Zepf said the grants could be awarded in mid-March. “It’s important to get people to apply,” said Town Manager Kristi Williams. To apply or for more information, contact Zepf at mzepf@westboroughma.gov, or call 508-871-5220. You may also visit the Economic Development Committee page on the town’s website, www.westboroughma.gov.

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12 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, January 26, 2024

COMMUNITY NEWS

Toblin Hill Drive bridge completed, neighborhood reunited Toblin Hill | from page 1

PHOTOS/EVAN WALSH

est to Walnut Street have their mailboxes across the bridge; what used to be an easy walk to the mailbox turned into a halfmile drive around the block. The Community Advocate spoke to several residents, and while nobody said the closed bridge changed their life, they also admitted the closure could become annoying and frustrating at times. “It was an actual, physical barrier in our neighborhood,” said Toblin Hill Drive resident Divya Raghunathan. “It meant that as a community — we were broken off,” said fellow Toblin Hill resident Stephan Koester. Raghunathan said that the bridge closure ruined Halloween; children used to complete the neighborhood circuit, but they could no longer traverse the bridge to reach the houses closest to Walnut Street. The neighborhood also used to be “full of walkers,” she said, but now people were walking along roads with no sidewalks, short-

After closing in 2016, the Toblin Hill Drive bridge has been completed.

The Toblin Hill Drive bridge passes over a low-lying stream.

er routes, or not walking at all. According to Raghunathan, people from both ends of the street connected with each other less after the bridge closed. “For some reason, even though it’s not that big of a difference, people from both sides of the bridge stopped talking. We would also walk down to their houses… but it stopped,” she said. In 2018, the bridge was de-

town staff and the community at large. The collaboration between the neighborhood and town staff shows our Department of Public Works at its best, but not without some obstacles along the way,” a Dec. 4 online statement from the town reads. During a Select Board meeting in October, Town Manager Kevin Mizikar mentioned he drove across the bridge to cel-

molished. In 2019, design plans were reviewed. In 2021, funding became available, and, in 2022, the contract to construct the bridge was awarded. The construction began in 2023, and by the end of the year, the new bridge was complete, officially reuniting the neighborhood. “The reconstruction of the Toblin Hill Drive Bridge was a long time coming for both the neighborhood residents,

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ebrate. The town plans to hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony in the near future. And, according to residents, the neighborhood is back. Raghunathan now goes across the bridge to get mail, and the neighborhood walkers have returned — possibly in greater numbers. “Did [the bridge] affect my travel? No. But it’s nice for the community,” said Koester.

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, January 26, 2024 • 13

COMMUNITY NEWS

St. Mary School holds clothing and book drive By Evan Walsh Reporter SHREWSBURY – St. Mary School is giving back. The Shrewsbury-based school from Nov. 27 to Dec. 11 held a clothing and book drive that collected 1,550 books and 990 items of clothing. “I was really overjoyed and, quite honestly, a little overwhelmed with the amount of support. We don’t have a lot of space here, so we were coming up with some creative ways [to store the items]. We were putting things under tables. We made it work. We made it happen,” said Service Club Coordinator Helen Collins, who led the club that coordinated the drive. The items were donated to Columbus Park Preparatory Elementary School in Worcester. The books were wrapped and each Worcester student received a book for the holidays. St. Mary School also does another drive in May, giving the Columbus Park

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St. Mary School students collect, sort and organize over 1,500 books and roughly 1,000 clothing items.

students books for summer reading. This was the first year clothing was collected as part of the drive. “The clothes — that actually came about because Helen [Collins] spoke with the principal at Columbus Park and discovered that where they store the clothing for their students was flooded over the summer.

So, they were in desperate need of not just coats and hats and gloves, but everything for their students,” Admissions and Marketing Director Tina Gillaspie said. St. Mary School Service Club, open to fifth- through eighth-grade students, organized the drive. The club seeks to promote “service over self,” and helping Columbus Park

was no small undertaking. According to Collins, Service Club members delivered speeches to classrooms explaining the purpose and importance of the drive. Students created flyers and checked the donation bins daily. Typically, the Service Club meets once to sort all the items, but with the influx of donations, they needed two ses-

sions this time. Collins said five different cars helped transport the materials. “Our community — the s ch o o l co m m u n i ty, t h e Shrewsbury community: very,very generous. Once we got the word out there about the need and who was going to benefit, it took on a life of its own,” said Gillaspie.

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14 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, January 26, 2024

COMMUNITY SCHOOLS Over 30 applications received to be next Westborough superintendent

Westborough seeks to replace Hastings roof

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

Other warrant articles Westborough schools has posted five requests in the Town Meeting Warrant, all within Article 9 – the Capital Improvement Plan. This includes a $5 million request for Americans with Disabilities Act and Massachusetts Architectural Access Board construction at Hastings. Among the school district’s other requests is $60,000 to fund architectural design and engineering to repair Westborough High School’s exterior rim. The high school also may see work on its roof. The district is requesting $192,000 for the architectural design and engineering for the restoration of the C wing roof. According to the warrant, this is needed for future roof load needs, including for air han-

FILE PHOTO/ED KARVOSKI JR.

School Committee will interview the finalists, followed by a meeting to determine the new superintendent. If needed, the committee could continue its determination on Monday, Feb. 12. Vincent said a choice could

be made by February school break. In early December, Bock announced she was leaving after 10 years leading Westborough Public Schools. She has accepted a job at a private school on the North Shore.

needed recent emergency replacement.

FILE PHOTO/DAKOTA ANTELMAN

WESTBOROUGH – The search to replace Amber Bock as superintendent of Westborough Public Schools is well underway. During the School Committee meeting on Jan. 17, Vice Chair Kristen Vincent announced that the search committee had received 34 applications for the position. A search committee is currently going through the applications to determine who will be interviewed on Jan. 30-31. After that, the School Committee will plan a “finalists day” on Tuesday, Feb. 6, which will include a chance for the public to ask questions of the finalists and provide feedback to the committee. On Wednesday, Feb. 7, the

The search is underway for Superintendent Amber Bock’s replacement.

Hastings | from page 1

Hastings’ roof has failed, according to district leaders.

dlers and structural support for solar panels. WPS is also requesting $504,000 to go toward the replacement of 70,000 square feet of the high school’s A and B wing roof. Mill Pond Elementary School also may receive funding for its roof. The district is requesting $1.1 million to restore the Mill Pond roof. Bock said all these articles will remain on the warrant. Westborough’s annual Town Meeting will convene at 9 a.m. on March 23 at Westborough High School.

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, January 26, 2024 • 15

COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

Assabet Valley students earn Adams Scholarships MARLBOROUGH – Superintendent Ernest F. Houle and Principal Mark Hollick announced that 75 seniors at Assabet Regional Vocational Technical High School have received a John and Abigail Adams Scholarship. This scholarship is available to students who: • Score in the advanced category in assessment tests in English language arts, mathematics or STE (biology, chemistry, introductory physics or technology/engineering). • Score in the proficient or advanced category on the remaining two tests. • Have a combined Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System score on these assessments that ranks in the top 25 percent in their school district. Scholarship recipients are granted four years of free tuition at Massachusetts state colleges and universities. Students who receive the Adams scholarship must complete their undergraduate program in four years or less and maintain a cumulative

Search begins for new school finance officer By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor MARLBOROUGH – Marlborough Public Schools (MPS) has launched a search for a new director of finance and operations. Following the announcement by current director Thomas LaFleur that he plans to retire at the end of the school year, MPS has launched what one school official called “an aggressive search” for his successor. The job listing was posted on Jan. 4. According to Superintendent Mary Murphy, there are four applicants so far. Interviews were scheduled for the week of Jan. 16. A recommendation will come before the School Committee on Jan. 23 after the Community Advocate goes to print. Should a candidate be selected, MPS will enter into negotiations for a contract. Murphy would like to have the new director come on board before July 1 to assure a smooth transition.

Assabet Regional Vocational Technical High School seniors recently received a John and Abigail Adams scholarship.

3.0 grade-point average. The following seniors in the Community Advocate’s coverage area have earned an Adams Scholarship: Hudson: Emily Brennion, Camren Cooper, Lucas DeSouza, Larissa Granger, Stephan Harlow, Michelle Krieg, Adrian Lugo, Anthony Luongo, Keira Madden, Tristan Parsons, Sarina Prather, Dylan Rebeiro, Owen St. Angelo,

Jayna Tang, Matthias Tucker Marlborough: Melody Ashman, Christian Brown, Jack Brzenk, Shanery Burgos Velez, Evan Dube, Arianna Estabrooks, Luke Feddersohn, Joseph Florendo, Grant Gamber, Gabriel Goncalves Lopes, Mia Gonzalez, Luis Gonzalez Y Gonzalez, Chelsea Hernandez Barillas, Nicole Keher, Edmee McCarthy, Jonathan Morales, Cody Pare,

Logan Powers, Ivanel Rivera, Janthony Rivera Santiago, Thiago Somaio, Anthony Tupper, Heydi Velasquez Garcia, Izaiah Velazquez De Jesus, Mary Zouharis Northborough: Lara ElAmme Pingitore Shrewsbury: Isla Marija Bukow, Jack Casillo, Deven Champy, Jaden Daniels, Haley Erickson, Lily Hobbs, Galaya Lachmann, Kiira Maloney,

Matthew Watson Southborough: Shelby Aker, Ian Cage, Nyah Yazdani Westborough: Noelle Medeiros “Congratulations to all of our awardees,” said Hollick. “Excellence in both comprehensive and technical classes is an incredible achievement. These scholarships create new educational opportunities that can only benefit our students.”

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16 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, January 26, 2024

COMMUNITY HISTORY Farming legacy still visible within Northborough’s Bearfoot Road industrial area The Sparrow farm in Northborough in 1969.

NORTHBOROUGH

THEN

NOW

Sparrow (1938-2008), the eldest son of Hermon who ran the farm with his father, recalls starting chores such as milking and feeding at five a.m. and then coming home from school to feed the baby calves. Ten acres of the land was pasture, located three acres up from Solomon Pond. He recalls that, during his youth, Northborough had 25 cow farms, eight chicken farms, and five market gardens. Farming continued until the late 1960s, at which time Philip Sparrow sold the remaining land, which had already been fragmented by the state’s taking by imminent domain 70 acres for the construction of I-290 and the Sudbury-Assabet Valley flood control project. You can see a remnant wood road by the 290 entrance near the Berlin border. Philip and his family moved to Vermont

By Alexandra Molnar History Columnist NORTHBOROUGH – Before Interstate 290 existed and the businesses along Bearfoot Road were built as part of one of Northborough’s industrial areas, a 120-acre farm owned by the Sparrow family extended from Colburn Street north to where the 290 interchange is today on Solomon Pond Road. In the 1700s and 1800s, the land was property of the Warren and Hilliard families. By 1967 it was a 120-acre-plus farm owned by Hermon Sparrow, Jr. (1914-1988), a selfemployed dairy farmer whose grandfather had purchased the farm in the early 1900s. At its

PHOTO/COURTESY OF THE NORTHBOROUGH HISTORICAL SOCIETY

peak, 120 milking cows roamed the property, and the land was also cultivated for corn and hay. The Sparrows sold the milk — 160,000 gallons a year — to local dairy farms, including Deary Bros. Dairy of

Webster. A farmhouse, built in 1744, no longer exists but was at the junction of Colburn and Rice Streets. Today, you can see the hole where the house stood on the north side of Colburn Street

at the crest of the hill, now the National Grid property at 55 Bearfoot Road. The house overlooked Solomon Pond, and the family owned about a quarter of the pond’s shoreline. In a 2001 interview, Philip

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, January 26, 2024 • 17

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

DEATHS Alano, Leigh of Grafton Ayotte, Howard of Westborough Bastien, Marie of Marlborough Caissie, Leo of Hudson Christo, Phyllis of Marlborough Collette, Beatrice of South Grafton Comaskey, Dulce of Hudson Desautels, Robert formerly of Hudson Freitas, Doris formerly of Hudson Gardner, Bernard formerly of Grafton Gill, Alicia of Shrewsbury Haddad, Helen of Shrewsbury Higginbottom, Barry of Grafton Holdash, Gretchen of Shrewsbury Hostage, G. Michael of Southborough Johnson, Estelle of Southborough MacLaren, Michelle of Hudson Marchand, Howard of North Grafton Moitozo, Manuel formerly of Marlborough and Hudson Noel Jr., William of Webster/ Grafton Pelletier, Richard of Hudson Podlesney, Paul of Marlborough Putnam, Anthony of North Grafton Shea, Marion of Hudson Whenman, Walter formerly of Shrewsbury

Dulce Comaskey, 97 HUDSON - Dulce (Marques) Comaskey, 97, of Hudson, MA, passed away on January 12, 2024 after a period of declining health. She was predeceased by her husband, Paul M. Comaskey, in 1968 and was the daughter of the late Joseph and Mary Marques of Hudson. Dulce is survived by her sister Loretta Kurgan, nieces Jane Kurgan, Susan Bierig and her husband Brian; and grandnephews Michael and Christopher and his partner Briana, all from Yarmouth Port, MA. She is also survived by her cousins and their families John Marques and his wife Liz, Denise (Marques) Garcia and her husband Joe, Joanne

(Marques) O’Connor and her husband Daniel. She was predeceased by her uncle John Marques and his wife Irene, her cousin Robert ‘Bob’ Marques and her brother-in-law Robert Kurgan. Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted with arrangements.

Marion L. Shea, 85 HUDSON - On January 11, 2024, Marion L. (Ordway) “Meme” Shea, 85, of Hudson Mass., peacefully passed away in her sleep. She was the wife of 59 years to the late Richard D. Shea Sr. Marion is survived by her three sons and their families, Keith and Cindy Shea of Marlboro Mass., Richard (II) and Linda Shea of Leominster Mass., and Christopher and Christina Shea of Hudson Mass., Nine grand children, which she loved and cherished so dearly, Ashley Shea, Matthew Shea, Katey (Shea) Mitchell, Meaghan (Shea) Maldari, Richard Shea III, Devon Shea, Alexa Shea, Kayley Shea and Emma Shea. Seven great grand children, Kylie Mitchell, Mason Mitchell, Brayden Mitchell, John Shea, Olivia Maldari, Alison Maldari and Abel Charbonneau. Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted with arrangements.

William Noel Jr., 52 WEBSTER/GRAFTON - William Noel Jr., 52, passed away suddenly after a brief illness January 12, 2024. He leaves his adoring wife of nearly 25 years, Kery (Gaulin) Noel, his mother Patricia Magliaro and her husband Michael, his father William Noel, Sr. and his partner Amelia, his stepbrother David Magliaro, his sister-in-law Kelly Mastroianni and her husband Joseph, his motherin-law Linda Sattler and her husband Russell and father-inlaw Lane Gaulin and his wife Cynthia and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased

by his brother Sean Noel and step-brother Daniel Magliaro. Roney Funeral Home of North Grafton assisted with arrangements.

Bernard P. Gardner, 92 LEOMINSTER - Bernard P. Gardner, age 92, resident of Leominster, MA, passed away peacefully, with his family by his side, on January 10, 2024. Bernie was born on April 6, 1931, in Seaford Town (known as German Town), Jamaica, B.W.I., to the late Percival and Angela (Bunnaman) Gardner. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Patricia (Tocci) Gardner, and his four children, Bernard F. Gardner and his wife, Robin (D’Onfro) Gardner, of Southwick, MA, Susan M. (Gardner) Wilson-Marro and her husband, Tony Marro, of Fitchburg, MA, Jeffrey R. Gardner and his significant other, Sandra Shannon-Gardner, of Leominster, MA, and Linda M. (Gardner) Flory and her husband, Brian Flory, of Fitchburg, MA. He is also survived by eight grandchildren, Benjamin Gardner, Daniel Gardner and his wife Meredith (Horton), Ashley (Wilson) Nicastro and her husband, Matt, Kyle Wilson and his wife, Krystal (Duval), Cheri Gardner and her life partner, Alina Raye, Nicholas Gardner, Ashley BurqueShannon, Katrina (Flory) Clancy and her husband, Kevin, Sarah (Flory) Schow and her husband, Jared. Additionally, Bernie is survived by nine great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his brother Kenneth and his wife Barbara of Willowdale, Ontario, Canada. In addition to his parents, Bernie was predeceased by four sisters and two brothers. Brandon Funeral Home of Fitchburg assisted with arrangements.

Beatrice Collette, 80 SOUTH GRAFTON - Beatrice “Bea” (Messinese) Collette, 80, passed away peacefully at home January 11, 2024

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

following a long battle with Pancreatic Cancer surrounded by the family she adored. She leaves her husband of 63 years, Robert Collette, Sr., her children Robert Collette, Jr. and his wife Becky, James Collette and his wife Linda and Steven Collette, her grandchildren Kimberly Divirgilio and her husband Michael, Kalley Mahmoud and her husband Ali, Kara ColletteLee and her husband Andrew, Danielle Collette and Michael Collette, Ryan Collette and his wife Shannon, Nicole Noonan and her husband Michael, her great-grandchildren Bradley and Ryleigh Divirgilio and Paisley Collette, her sisters Grace Belle Isle, Sandra Brawn and Marie Belliveau and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brother Nicholas Messinese. Roney Funeral Home of North Grafton assisted with arrangement.

Doris E. Freitas, 93 BERLIN - Doris E. (Boutilier) Freitas, 93, of Berlin, MA, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 9, 2024. She was the beloved wife of the late George V. Freitas for 39 years. She was proud to be a descendant of the Mayflower, and a very patriotic lady. Doris was born in 1930 in Concord, MA, to Aubrey C. Boutilier and Ella S. (Harlow) Boutilier. Born and raised in West Concord, MA, Doris moved to Hudson in 1948, where she resided for 60 years. She relocated to Berlin, MA in 2008 to be closer to her daughter. Doris leaves behind her daughter Laura (Freitas) Busky and husband Michael of Berlin, MA; her nieces and nephews, Linda (David) Frantz of KY, Suzy (Jeff) Conley of Pepperell, Buzzy Rizzitano of Billerica, Carol (Bruce) Morgan of ME, Ed Steinberg (Tish Keefe) of Maynard, Dan Teabo of Shirley, and many grand nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her husband George; parents Aubrey and Ella; her sisters Elinor Calef, Beatrice Whiting, and Thelma Steinberg; her nieces Roberta Steinberg, Mary Shuman, Donna

DiMase and Ann Kelleway. She is also predeceased by her very dear friends Gwendolyn Rich and Thelma Federman. Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted with arrangements.

Michelle M. MacLaren, 55 HUDSON - Michelle M. MacLaren, 55, of Hudson, MA, passed at home on Monday January 15, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Michelle is survived by her mother Diana L. (Suddy) MacLaren of Hudson, MA; her sisters Amy Peterson and her late husband Timothy of Berlin, MA, and Judy Congdon and her husband Jeffrey of Hudson, MA; her life partner and soulmate Daniel Kelley; as well as other family and friends. Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted with arrangements.

Paul T. Podlesney, 74 MARLBOROUGH - Paul “Pesky” T. Podlesney, 74, of Marlborough died Tuesday January 9, 2024, at UMASS Memorial Medical Center in Worcester after a brief illness surrounded by his loved ones. He was the husband of Vallapa V. (Vachiravatchara) Podlesney for the past 50 years. Besides his wife Vallapa, he leaves two sons, Scott J. Podlesney and his wife Divonne of West Boylston and Lance K. Podlesney and his wife Diane of New Hartford, Conn; three sisters, Jill Gill of Northborough, Karen Giardina and her husband Kenny of Marlborough and Robin Monteiro and her husband Joe of Marlborough; six grandchildren, Kaila, Sean, Brennan, Justice, Hunter and Christian; many nephews, nieces and cousins. The Collins Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements. Obituaries | 19

18 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, January 26, 2024

LEGAL NOTICES

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 February 7, 2024 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 January 24, 2024 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. 2007 Honda Odyssey VIN: 5FNRL38637B063615 Owned by Brahian Predes 2008 Ford F150 VIN:1FTPW14558FA44741 Owned by Robert Anicio Ramons Silva 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata Vin: JM1NDAB76L0414544 Owned by Richard P Brauer 2014 Volkswagon Jetta VIN: 3VW2K7AJ9EM437614 Owned by Paulo Cesar DeSouza 2010 Dodge Calibe VIN: 1B3CB3HA5AD643686 Owned by: Easy Street Auto Sales, LLC 2021 Stoughton 53’ Box Trailer VIN: 1DW1A532XNBA70657 Owned by: Aluna Trucking Inc. 2013 Ford Fiesta VIN: 3FADP4AJXDM166837 Owned by John F Samukai 2004 Toyota Sequoia VIN: 5TDZT38AO4S231318 Owned by Samantha Bosch 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan VIN: 2C4RDGDG7CR179532 Owned by Enrique Armijo-Euceda 2008 Honda CRV VIN: JHLRE383X8C052161 Owned by Maureen Dalton 2008 Subaru Outback VIN: 4S4BP61C287320709 Owned by: E DaCosta Cruz This notice has been given under the provisions of G.L. c. 255, Section 39A.

HUDSON NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Petition #ZSP-24-1 Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals on Thursday, February 15, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. Pursuant to Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023 extending the remote meeting provisions of March 12, 2020, Executive Order suspending certain provisions of the Open Meeting Law, this meeting of the Hudson Zon-

ing Board of Appeals will be conducted via remote participation. Specific information for remote participation will be included on the agenda. At this time the Board of Appeals will hear the request of 55 Cottage Street Realty Trust, Eric M. Chaves, Trustee, requesting a Special Permit for the expansion of a pre-existing non-conforming two-family use pursuant to Section 5.1.6.1 of the Town of Hudson Protective Zoning By-Laws. The subject property is located at 55 Cottage Street in the SB Single Family Zoning District, Assessors’ Map 19 Parcels 18 and Parcel 19. The Board may consider any action deemed necessary relative to the subject petition. All petition materials are available for review in the Town Clerk’s Office during regular business hours, on the Town of Hudson website at http://go.boarddocs. com/ma/hudsonma/Board.nsf/ goto?open&id=CZLJJJ4D63FF and can be requested by calling (978) 562-2989 or by sending an email to kjohnson@ townofhudson.org. Matt Russell, Clerk Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals

LEGAL NOTICE The Hudson Select Board will hold a public hearing to consider an application for a Transfer of Ownership for a Class I License received from Todd Copeland. Said transfer from Durand Chevrolet to Copeland Chevrolet Hudson to engage in the principal business of buying and/ or selling new and second-hand Motor Vehicles at 223 & 329 Washington Street, Hudson, MA. The Hearing will be held at the Town of Hudson Police Department located at 911 Municipal Drive, Hudson, MA 01749 on Monday, February 5, 2024 at 7:00PM. For more information call 978-562-9963.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Petition# SPR-24-1 Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. Pursuant to Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023 extending the remote meeting provisions of March 12, 2020, Executive Order suspending certain provisions of the Open Meeting Law, this meeting of the Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals will be conducted via remote participation. Specific information for remote participation will be included on the agenda. At this time, the Hudson Planning Board will consider the application of the Town of Hudson’s Department of Public Works for Site Plan Approval of a project that entails project includes demolition of the existing Public Works Department facility (4 buildings in total) and replacement with a new state of the art facility with storage and repair garages, work and tool shops, office space, etc. The facility will also include new parking, covered fleet vehicle storage, a fueling station, circulation drives, utility connections, and a stormwater manage-

Call 508.366.5500 to advertise your legal notice ment system. The proposed project is consistent with the requirements of the Town of Hudson Protective Zoning ByLaws and in particular Section 7.1.7. The subject property is located at 1 Municipal Drive within the M-5 Industrial District, Assessors’ Map 13 Parcel 66. All petition materials are available for review in the Town Clerk’s Office during regular business hours, on the Town of Hudson website at http://go.boarddocs. com/ma/hudsonma/Board.nsf/ goto?open&id=CZLRAC695315 and can be requested by calling (978) 5622989 or by sending an email to kjohnson@townofhudson.org.

CITY OF MARLBOROUGH CONSERVATION COMMISSION REQUEST FOR DETERMINATION OF APPLICABILITY NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING A Notice is hereby given that the Marlborough Conservation Commission will hold a public meeting on February 1, 2024, at 7:00 PM at Marlborough City Hall, 140 Main St. on the 3rd FloorMemorial Hall.

Hudson Planning Board Robert D’Amelio, Chairman

Request for Determination of Applicability was filed under provisions of the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, G.L. c. 131, §40.

MARLBOROUGH

Michael Cardarelli proposes to add an addition to his house at 64 Simmons St. in Marlborough which is next to wetlands.

PUBLIC NOTICE Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Division of Wetlands and Waterways MassDEP Boston Office 100 Cambridge Street, Suite 900 Boston, MA 02114 Pursuant to 33 U.S.C. 1341 M.G.L. c. 21 §§ 26 - 53, notice is given of a 401 Water Quality Certification application for the resurfacing and related work on Boston Post Rd (Route 20) in the Town of Marlborough, Massachusetts by the MassDOT Division of Highways, Ten Park Plaza, Room 4260, Boston, MA 02116. MassDOT is recertifying this permit with MassDEP in light of the Army Corps of Engineers 2018 General Permit Expiration. The purpose of this project is to provide safety improvements for all roadway users, provide drainage improvements, and enhance access and traffic ﬂow for vehicles, while reducing the vehicular speed through the corridor. Additional work along the corridor includes reconstruction of existing sidewalks and construction of new sidewalk to provide accessible ADA accommodations, and construction of 5-foot bicycle accommodating shoulders as part of MassDOT’s Healthy Transportation Policy directive. These improvements are part of the resurfacing project along the approximately 2.5-mile long corridor. Additional information may be obtained from the Massachusetts Department of Transportaion – Highway Division at the above address, attention Stephanie Regan or by emailing stephanie.m.regan@ dot.state.ma.us. Written comments should be sent to Heidi Davis, MassDEP Wetlands Program, 100 Cambridge Street, Suite 900, Boston MA 02114 or heidi.davis@mass.gov within 21 days of this notice. Any group of ten persons, any aggrieved person, or any governmental body or private organization with a mandate to protect the environment who submits written comments may appeal the Department’s Certification. Failure to submit written comments before the end of the public comment period may result in the waiver of any right to an adjudicatory hearing.

Plans and other information can be viewed in the Conservation Office, 508460-3768. All interested persons are invited. Applicant or representative must be present. Edward Clancy, Chairman Conservation Commission

SHREWBURY NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Shrewsbury Community Preservation Committee will hold a public hearing at 7:00 PM on February 5th in the Selectboard’s Room at Town Hall, 100 Maple Ave, Shrewsbury MA 01545 to review the project applications for Community Preservation Funds. Members of the public are welcome to attend and provide their comments on the projects. Please find the complete applications on the Community Preservation Committee webpage at www.ShrewsburyMA.gov/ CPCApplications or email Planning@ ShrewsburyMA.gov to learn more.

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that John M. Daugherty-Dixon on behalf of PMG – Subaru, LLC., d/b/a Patrick Subaru, 257-261 Boston Turnpike, has applied to the Select Board for a Class I license. The proposed hours of operation are 7:00am to 7:00pm Monday through Thursday, 7:00am to 6:00pm Friday, 7:00am to 5:00pm Saturday. A public hearing on this application will be held on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at 7:10pm, Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, Selectmen’s Meeting Room, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545. Beth N. Casavant, Chair

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that John M. Daugherty-Dixon on behalf of PMG – Subaru, LLC., d/b/a Patrick Subaru, 247 Boston Turnpike, has applied to the Select Board for Class I and commercial garage licenses. The proposed hours of operation are 7:00am to 7:00pm Monday through Thursday, 7:00am to 6:00pm Friday, 7:00am to 5:00pm Saturday. A public hearing on this application will be held on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at 7:05pm, Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, Selectmen’s Meeting Room, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545. Beth N. Casavant, Chair

WORCESTER PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given pursuant to the provision of M.G.L. c 255 Section 39A that on February 15, 2024, the following vehicles will be sold at a private sale to satisfy our garage keeper’s lien thereof for towing, storage & notices of sale. To be sold at Belsito Auto 245 SW Cutoff Worcester MA. 2017 Lincoln MKZ VIN 3LN6L5F99HR608918 2020 Honda Accord VIN 1HGCV1F1XLA118710 2013 Mercedes C300 VIN WDDGF8AB8DA826659 2018 RAV4 VIN JTMRFREV1JJ720496 2018 Ford Fusion VIN 3FA6P0D94JR206959 2020 Ford F-150 VIN 1FTEW1E57LFB49912 2009 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited VIN 1J4GA59129L722483

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, January 26, 2024 • 19

COMMUNITY OBITUARIES Obituaries | from page 17

Home of Holden.

Helen M. Haddad, 98 SHREWSBURY - It is with broken hearts that we announce our beloved mother, Helen M. Haddad, 98, has been called home to the Lord. Helen was born in Lawrence, MA, a daughter of the late Philip K. and Wardy (Khoury) Richards, and lived in Shrewsbury for the past 51 years. Helen was completely devoted to her husband of 36 years, Eli A. Haddad who passed in 1986, her son, John Steven Haddad with whom she lived, her 2 daughters, Marilyn P. Pinto and her husband, David, and Barbara Haddad-Saba and her son-in-law, Faris Saba; two grandchildren, Alexei F. Saba and wife Alessia D. Saba of Wakefield and Melinda S. Pinto and her husband, Scot Brownell of Watertown; and 2 great grandchildren, Emma Amal Saba and Lucy Josephine Brownell. A brother, Ralph K. Richards, and a sister, Norma J. Samra predeceased her. Funeral arrangements were under the direction of Philip G. Haddad, Jr., Miles Funeral

Anthony J. Putnam, 5 North Grafton - Anthony Joseph Putnam, 5, of North Grafton, passed away suddenly on Friday, January 12, 2024. He was the cherished son of Cale Charles and Elizabeth Marie (Papp) Putnam. In addition to his parents, he is survived by his maternal grandmother Nancy Ellen Papp of Marlborough, and his paternal grandparents, Frederick Charles and Deborah Alida Putnam of South Boston; his great-grandmother Marie Anne “Mimie” Anéme Papp, Newtown, CT; aunts and uncles, Joseph Claude and Judith Papp of Westford, and Gregory and Allison Alida Bradford of Jamaica Plain; his cousins Anna, Clara and Daniel Papp, and Willow Bradford; and countless friends and relatives. He was predeceased by his maternal grandfather, Claude Anthony Papp, who died in 2003. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation to the GoFundMe

account they’ve created to help preserve Anthony’s memory via www.gofundme.com/f/ anthony-putnam. The Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.

Leo A. Caissie, 91 HUDSON - Leo A. Caissie, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 13, 2024, at the Coleman House Nursing Home in Northborough, MA. He was born to Desire and Anna Caissie on August 29, 1932, in Waltham, MA. Leo met the love of his life, Jeannine E. Caissie, and together, they raised four sons: Brian, Bob, Richard, and Christopher. Leo’s legacy continues through his grandchildren: Daniel, Sarah, Alexander, Anna, Emily, Samantha, and great grandchildren, Melody, and Elijah. He loved any opportunity to see his family get together. Leo is predeceased by his wife Jeannine Caissie, his parents, Desire and Anna Caissie, and his brothers Paul Caissie

and David Caissie. He is survived by his sister Roseanna Caissie and his brother Edwin Duval. A memorial service will be held in the coming months; family and friends will be notified of the details. Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted with arrangements.

Howard E. Ayotte, 95 WESTBOROUGH - Howard E. Ayotte, 95, passed away on Thursday, January 11, 2024, UMass Memorial Medical Center-University Campus in Worcester. Howard was born in Marlborough, MA, son of Joseph and Blanche (Whitman) Ayotte. Howard is survived by his two sons, Allan of Westborough, and John of Northborough. He was predeceased by his daughter, Laurie Ann (Ayotte) Cappuccio. He also leaves three grandchildren, Lindsey Cappuccio, Bradley Smith, and Michael Ayotte. He was predeceased by his longtime companion, Maryann Button. A graveside service in Maplewood Cemetery, Marlborough will take place in the spring. The date and time will be announced.

Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.

Howard M. Marchand NORTH GRAFTON - Howard “Howie” Marchand passed away peacefully in his home on Friday, January 12th surrounded by his loving family. H o w a rd leaves his wife of 47 years, Lorraine (Laferriere) Marchand; his children, Wendy Gauthier (John Nordstrom) of Oxford, Tina Cummings (Chris) of Millbury, Sandy Radcliffe (Thomas) of Webster, and Wendy Ricciardi (Steve) of Holden; his sister, Beverly Gossen of New Mexico; his sister-in-law, June Laferriere of Auburn, and his eight grandchildren, Cameron, Nicholas, Kelsie, Keith, Reese, Ava, Hannah, and David. Howard is predeceased by his mother, Rita (Facteau) Adams; his father, Howard Marchand Sr., and his brother-in-law, Roland Laferriere. Mulhane Home for Funerals of Millbury assisted with arrangements.

SUPER CROSSWORD

Answers on page 20

20 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, January 26, 2024

COMMUNITY HISTORY

Farming legacy still visible within Northborough’s Bearfoot Road industrial area Farming | from page 16

in 1970 and continued farming there. In September 1978, just over 28 acres were deeded to Raytheon Corporation, and then in December 1994 National Grid purchased the property and operates there today. Where the National Grid parking lot now stands is where hay was

Stone foundation of an earlier building on the former Sparrow farm in Northborough.

chopped and loaded into a silo. There was also an apple orchard, which extended about five acres along Colburn Street. Hermon Sparrow built the house at 63 Colburn Street, which still stands today. A trail along the perimeter of the 55 Bearfoot Road property allows one to see remnants of the farm that will take you

back to the pre-industrial days. Along Colburn Street you can spot a stone foundation. On the south side of the property where there is a view of Solomon Pond, you can see where there was once a swimming area in the 1930s. The pond was also a source of ice for local distribution and refrigerated railroad cars until the mid-1900s.

PHOTO/ALEXANDRA MOLNAR

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POLICE

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, January 26, 2024 • 21

FIRE

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

August trial date set for man accused of killing his mother By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor MARLBOROUGH – An August date has been set for the trial of a former Westborough resident accused of killing his mother last June. Daniel Uhlman, 53, will be tried in Middlesex Superior Court in Woburn on Aug. 19. A “trial readiness” hearing is scheduled for July 12. Uhlman has been charged with first-degree murder; he is accused of stabbing, beating and running over his mother,

Nancy Uhlman, at the Holiday Inn on Lakeside Avenue in Marlborough last summer. On June 1, Marlborough police were called to the Holiday Inn. According to police reports and court documents, Uhlman was in the lobby, with blood on his hands and arms. He told hotel staff that he had just killed his mother, the reports and documents state. Police went to the back of the hotel, where they found the body of Nancy Uhlman, 82, of Westborough. According to reports, she was lying “on

the ground with significant trauma.” She was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics from Patriot Ambulance; her body was later transported by the state’s Medical Examiner’s office. During the arraignment on June 2, prosecutor Megan McGovern said the death was a homicide. According to reports, Uhlman, who had been staying at the hotel since the end of May, had called his mother to come over; he told police he intended to kill her. Uhlman had grabbed

a butter knife a few days before with the intent “to stab someone in the area,” the court documents said. Nancy Uhlman arrived around 10:30 a.m., and they talked and smoked cigarettes in her truck for a while. Around 12:30 p.m., court documents stated Uhlman pulled his mother out of the driver’s seat of the truck, then slammed her head on the ground multiple times. He told responding officers that he stabbed her about 10 times. He got back into the truck and ran over her twice, ac-

cording to court documents. He then drove the truck to the front of the hotel and went into the lobby. Hilary Novak, a forensic psychologist, told the court that Uhlman has bipolar disorder, and he has had hallucinations to harm himself and others. He was arraigned in Marlborough District Court the following day. The case was sent to Middlesex Superior Court a couple of months later. Uhlman is currently being held at the House of Correction in Billerica.

Ave. Vandalism. 5:21 p.m. Arrested, Frank J. Kovendy, 72, of 65 Settler Ln., Marlborough, on true warrants, op MV with license suspended, op MV with registration suspended, uninsured motor vehicle, number plate violation. 7:30 p.m. Parking Garage/Newton St. Vandalism. 8:01 p.m. Hosmer St. Larceny. 8:07 p.m. Ashley Ln. Fraud/ forgery. Thursday, Jan. 11 11:13 a.m. Royal Guest Apartments/Royal Crest Dr. Auto theft. 3:12 p.m. Saint Martin Dr. Fraud/ forgery. 6:17 p.m. Evelina Dr. Fraud/ forgery. Friday, Jan. 12 6:30 a.m. Arrested, Nicholas S. Ford, 35, of 87B Broadmeadow Rd., Apt. 8, Marlborough, on true warrant. 3:05 p.m. Marlborough Hills Health Care/Northboro Road East. Larceny. 5:39 p.m. Princeton Green Apartments/Farm Rd. Vandalism. Saturday, Jan. 13 1:32 a.m. Arrested, Esteban Paz-Escobar, 24, of 475 Lincoln St., Apt. 5, Marlborough, for OUI-liquor or .08%, unlicensed operation of MV, negligent operation of motor vehicle, fail to stop for police, marked lanes violation, speeding/rate of speed exceeding posted limit, MV lights violation, receive stolen property -$1200. 10:28 a.m. The Heights at Marlborough Apts/Briarwood Ln. Harassment.

11:04 a.m. The Retreat at Marlborough Apts/Bronte Way. Larceny. 2:28 p.m. American Eagle/Donald J. Lynch Blvd. Larceny. 6:24 p.m. Hosmer St. Pedestrian accident. 6:26 p.m. Marlborough Court Condominiums/Hosmer St. MVA with injuries. Sunday, Jan. 14 4:21 a.m. The Heights at Marlborough Apts/Briarwood Ln. Burglary/B&E past. 9:54 a.m. Rte 290 Eastbound/ Rte 495 N. MVA with injuries. Monday, Jan. 15 1:22 p.m. Planet Fitness/Apex Dr. Threats. 1:38 p.m. Royce Rd. Threats.

POLICE LOG 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.

Shrewsbury Friday, Jan. 12 12:13 p.m. Arrested, Barbara Jean Murray, 54, of 14 Clendenny Ave., Jersey City, NJ, for shoplifting by asportation. 6:52 p.m. Sheridan Dr. Larceny. 9:15 p.m. Arrested, Christian George, 24, of 48 N Bow St., Apt. 2, Milford, on warrant. Saturday, Jan. 13 9:30 a.m. Yorkshire Terr. Preserve the peace. 11:55 a.m. Industrial Dr. Illegal dumping. 6:06 p.m. Tennis Dr. B&E motor vehicle. Sunday, Jan. 14 4:16 a.m. Arrested, Julio Patrick Da Costa Freitas, 21, of 1612 Worcester Rd., Apt. 308, Framingham, on warrant. Monday, Jan. 15 10:17 a.m. Round Table Rd. Identity theft. 3:36 p.m. Main St. Larceny. Tuesday, Jan. 16 1:57 a.m. Arrested, Shawn M. Lambert, 42, of 1010 Hickory Switch Rd., Lagrange, KY, for unlicensed operation of MV, carry dangerous weapon, trafficking methamphetamine. 11:58 a.m. South Quinsigamond. Larceny attempt.

4:43 p.m. Eastern Point Dr. Threats. 8:08 p.m. Hartford Tpke. Accident with injury. Wednesday, Jan. 17 12:13 p.m. Shrewsbury Green Dr. Harassment. 4:07 p.m. Arrested, Heather N. Landry, 36, of 8 Almont Ave., Apt. 2, Worcester, on warrant.

Grafton Sunday, Jan. 7 9:20 a.m. George Hill Rd. Fire – electrical. 12:00 p.m. Institute Rd. Fire – HAZMAT spill. 2:58 p.m. East St./Kaye Cir. Accident – personal injury. Monday, Jan. 8 12:13 p.m. Pratt St. Fire – motor vehicle. Tuesday, Jan. 9 9:16 a.m. Providence Rd. Accident – hit & run. 5:48 p.m. Upton St. Scam/attempted scam. 6:23 p.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/ identity theft. Wednesday, Jan. 10 1:26 p.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/ identity theft. Thursday, Jan. 11 11:39 a.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/identity theft. 1:54 p.m. Providence Rd. Assault. Friday, Jan. 12 5:23 p.m. Greenlawn Ave. Vandalism. Saturday, Jan. 13 9:28 a.m. Westboro Rd. Larceny/ theft. 7:55 p.m. Worcester St. Accident

– hit & run.

Westborough Monday, Jan. 8 10:44 p.m. Flanders Rd. Accident – hit & run. Tuesday, Jan. 9 9:46 a.m. Arrested, Manuel Lopez, 24, of 54 West St., Apt. 2, Leominster, on straight warrants. Thursday, Jan. 11 1:43 p.m. Powder Hill Way. Accident – hit & run. 7:30 p.m. Copperbeech Cir. Threats made. 11:10 p.m. Moses Wheelock Ln. Fraud. Friday, Jan. 12 7:12 a.m. Phillips St. Accident – hit & run. 7:30 p.m. Mayberry Dr. Fraud. Saturday, Jan. 13 7:08 p.m. Bridle Ln. B&E in a MV.

Marlborough Tuesday, Jan. 9 9:13 a.m. Mechanic St. Burglary/ B&E past. 10:31 a.m. Arrested, Adam F. Mullins, 27, of 9 Klondike Ave., Apt. 9, Westfield, on true warrants. 1:35 p.m. Whitcomb School/ Union St. Assault. 2:31 p.m. Anderson Rd. Larceny. 4:08 p.m. Exeter St. Assault. Wednesday, Jan. 10 10:06 a.m. The Heights at Marlborough Apts./Briarwood Ln. Larceny. 11:15 a.m. Saint Martin Dr. Harassment. 11:21 a.m. Holiday Inn./Lakeside

Northborough Friday, Jan. 12 3:00 p.m. Arrested, James A. Whetton, 61, of 50 Pleasant St., Apt. 5, Northborough, for assault with dangerous weapon. Saturday, Jan. 13 12:15 p.m. Whitney St. Hit and run. Sunday, Jan. 14 11:14 p.m. Juniper Brook Rd. Fraud. Monday, Jan. 15 6:00 a.m. Arrested, Romario Silva Mota, 32, of 20 Patty Ln., Northborough, for unlicensed operation of MV. Tuesday, Jan. 16 9:56 p.m. West Main/Lincoln Sts. Criminal complaint. Wednesday, Jan. 17 11:41 a.m. Solomon Pond Rd./ Howe Ln. Criminal complaint.

22 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, January 26, 2024

COMMUNITY SPORTS Grafton hockey beats Marlborough in low-scoring matchup By Evan Walsh Reporter MARLBOROUGH – If you came for defense, you were in luck. The Jan. 20 matchup between the Grafton Gators and Marlborough Panthers began

with an early Grafton goal, but for most of the remaining 40plus minutes of action, both defenses ruled the ice, leading to a low-scoring, tensionfilled battle. As the buzzer sounded, the Gators emerged victorious,

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leaving Navin Arena with the 2-0 win. “A well-earned win. A great team win. Everybody stepped up. There wasn’t one guy that stood out. It was a wholeteam effort, and we certainly earned it. Coming into Marlborough on a Saturday night against a historically good program, these are special ones to win,” Grafton Head Coach Mike Binkoski told the Community Advocate. The Gators’ early goal — scored less than three minutes into the game — came off the stick of junior Juan Scott, who shot the puck into traffic to put his team ahead. “It helped us settle into the game. It was a great faceoff win. He shot it through a screen. The goalie didn’t see it. It was everything we preach: winning face-offs, gaining possession, defensemen getting their shots through. Scoring early helps us play with

some confidence,” Binkoski said after the game. Although each team had chances — especially Marlborough, which desperately fought to knot the game — both goaltenders would make clutch saves to keep the game at 1-0. The Gators’ defensive toughness ensured the Panthers never found the back of the net. “For us obviously losing isn’t the goal. But looking at how we played in the second and third period, I thought we played really well. Just one of those nights where we couldn’t get the puck in the net,” said Marlborough Head Coach Mike O’Brien. “Going into the game, we knew it would be very close. They’re a very good team. Unfortunately, we were on the wrong end of it.” The Gators’ goaltender — senior Mason DeCaire — was largely responsible for holding

Marlborough scoreless, saving 36 total shots. “Mason is awesome. He’s the stonewall for our team… He’s one of the best goalies to ever come through the program, and it’s really special having him,” said Binkoski. “I knew they were going to be a tough team. It would be a battle for the whole game to beat them. I expected nothing less… I’m always trying to get to that zero-goal mark. Sometimes it doesn’t bounce your way, but today I had a few bounces that I wanted,” said DeCaire. The Gators’ second goal was scored on an empty net with 30 seconds remaining. And after a tough, gritty win, the Gators are feeling good about their future. “We could make it all the way. We just need to play every night the way we did tonight and just battle,” said DeCaire.

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, January 26, 2024 • 23

COMMUNITY SPORTS

Grafton basketball survives last-second scare, defeats Shrewsbury By Evan Walsh Reporter SHREWSBURY – Two Central Massachusetts basketball heavyweights met on Jan. 18 — and it came down to the last play. With just seconds left, Shrewsbury’s Nate Nardella dished the ball to teammate Jack Christopher. Christopher gathered the ball, spun around, dribbled and looked for space to shoot. There was none, and with Grafton’s Jake Robertson closing in, Christopher settled for an off-balance three-point shot. The wouldbe game-winner bounced off the back of the rim. The buzzer sounded as Christopher’s shot hit the floor, and the Grafton Gators defeated the Shrewsbury Colonials 52-51. “We were just trying to get smart possessions,” Grafton Head Coach John Patraitis told the Community Advocate after the game. “We wanted to stay composed. They were pressuring us, doubling us

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win that game. We talk about those things. We had to dig deep and have the defense win the game for us.” The Gators were led by sophomore Larry Lamar, who

PHOTO/EVAN WALSH

scored 16 points. Shabd Murty and Mark Dickson each added 10 points. Both teams scored early and often, and the first quarter ended with Grafton

and Shrewsbury knotted at 16. While both sides traded blows throughout the first two frames — and entered halftime practically tied — Grafton pulled ahead after the break, dominating Shrewsbury early in the third quarter. “[At halftime] I said, ‘We have to go take charge. We have to grab this game. Nobody is going to give it to you for free. We have to assert ourselves and go after it.’ They did a great job of that, and I’m proud of these guys,” Patraitis said. Shrewsbury — led by Christopher’s 13-point performance — made the game interesting down the stretch but came up short. Jesse Osafo added 12 points for the Colonials, going 4-for-4 from the free-throw line, while Will Tonelli scored 9 points. “We’ve got a good group of guys — I love this squad. They work hard. They’re good kids. Good team chemistry. I’m really proud of them,” said Patraitis.

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24 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, January 26, 2024

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