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hudson | 11

Vol. 50 | No. 7 | February 16, 2024

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Marlborough Hudson E DI T I ON

Hudson Public Schools present $44M budget to Select Board By Sarah Freedman Contributing Writer HUDSON – Representatives from the Hudson Public Schools gave an overview of the fiscal 2025 budget and the challenges facing budget makers at the Feb. 5 meeting of the Select Board. Superintendent Brian Reagan, Finance Director Dan Gale and School Committee Chair Steven Smith presented the details of the $44.27 million budget. One issue centered on the Hudson Public Schools budget was transportation. Gale noted that they went out to bid for a three-year contract, but only received a single bidder, the current provider of buses to the schools. He added, “It’s a 51% increase in FY25.” In the last five years, the district has had a 2% increase in their transportation contract, but with this new contract, it would be a 7% increase after three years. In addition, he said the bus storage costs, if needed, would be $290,000 in the first year. Select Board Chair Scott Duplisea asked why there was only a single bidder. Gale said it is Budget | 5

Cub Scouts drive up the fun with annual Pinewood Derby By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor MARLBOROUGH – Cub Scout packs 31 and 41 conducted their own major sporting event on the Saturday of Super Bowl weekend. Scouts and their families filled the gym at Jaworek Elementary School to engage in the annual Pinewood Derby. Dozens of cars, made and decorated by the Scouts, competed against each other for the honor of being crowned city champion, with a trophy and bragging rights for having the fastest wheels. In addition to the fastest car, the Scouts could also cast votes for the best-looking vehicle. Last year’s creative champ, Zach Goetz, enPinewood Derby | 12

Faith Chiavarini cheers on her entry during the annual Pinewood Derby on Saturday, Feb. 10, at Jaworek Elementary School. (Photo/Maureen Sullivan)

City seeks funds to upgrade municipal website By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor MARLBOROUGH – The city is getting ready to upgrade its website. During the City Council meeting on Jan. 22, members heard a request from the mayor’s office for a transfer of $40,000 from free cash to the city’s Information Technology Department.

The funds will be used toward the website redesign. In a letter to the City Council, Mayor J. Christian Dumais said the website has not been updated in close to 10 years. “Due to that, we have been limited in our ability to serve residents in a modern, accessible manner,” said Dumais. “Our city website is the Website | 4

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2 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024

COMMUNITY NEWS Library Building Committee to ask for $1.6 million toward repair project By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor WESTBOROUGH – When Annual Town Meeting convenes on Saturday, March 23, there will be a request of $1.6 million toward the repair project for the Westborough Public Library. That request will be made by the Library Building Committee (LBC); the funds will be used for design development and construction documents. Once the documents are ready, the committee will go to 2025’s annual Town Meeting with a request for the repair project itself. The project’s costs would cover everything from construction to moving and storage. During its meeting on Jan. 30, the committee voted for a design/build concept, instead of having a construction manager at risk.

Colton Beaulieu makes his approach shot on the fifth hole of the mini-golf event at Westborough Public Library on Feb. 3. (Photo/Maureen Sullivan)

According to LBC Chair Robert Petrucelli, the construction manager would not be necessary, since it would be a repair project instead of a major renovation. The design/build concept would also save about $1 million. Plans for the repair project began to form early in 2023, after a Special Town Meeting in December 2022 rejected plans for a major renovation. The repair project would focus on some of the library’s major issues, such as the roof, windows and installing a second set of restrooms. Miniature golf and other programs The library held its annual mini-golf event on Friday, Feb. 2, and Saturday, Feb. 3. Visitors young and old could play an 18-hole course that wrapped around the first and second

floors. Unlike last year, when an admission was charged, the Friends of the Westborough Library picked up the tab. Miniature golf is among the programs being offered at the library this winter.

From now through March, the library is offering a winter wellness program, which includes a virtual walking program. Check the library’s calendar for details. For vacation week Feb. 2024, there will be programs on

meditation, a Family Game Day, a workshop on plant slime, a learning to code program for fourth- to sixth-graders and more. For information on programs and the project, visit www.westboroughlibrary.org.

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024 • 3

Dull Men’s Club to celebrate a decade THE

OVER TOP

The Dull Men’s Club will be marking its 10th anniversary later this month. (Photo/Courtesy)

SHREWSBURY – This photo shows the Olde Shrewsbury Village plaza located between Route 9 and Route 20. During the Feb. 8 Planning Board meeting, town staff identified this site and Shrewsbury Commons as the potential location of Shrewsbury’s MBTA zone. Under the MBTA Communities Act, the town must zone to accommodate about 1,500 housing units. (Photo/Tami White)

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being boring, members revel in the freedom to enjoy the simple, ordinary pleasures of life, with a strict policy against discussing politics and religion. Gillon expressed his gratitude for the club’s growth over the years, stating, “We’ve built something special here — a community where men can embrace the ordinary, find joy in simplicity, and forge lasting connections. It’s a celebration of the unremarkable, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.” The Northborough Dull Men’s Club invites the community to join them in marking this significant milestone and looks forward to another decade of embracing the delightfully mundane.

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NORTHBOROUGH – The Northborough Dull Men’s Club will be commemorating its 10th anniversary on Feb. 21. The club was founded in 2014 by President Bernie Gillon, and it has grown to include over 60 members who gather weekly at the Northborough Senior Center. The anniversary celebration is set to take place at the Northborough Senior Center on Feb. 21, serving as a testament to a decade of camaraderie and shared appreciation for life’s uncomplicated joys. Contrary to its name, the Dull Men’s Club is anything but dull. It is a place where men come together to share thoughts and experiences in a friendly atmosphere. Far from

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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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4 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024

COMMUNITY NEWS

City seeks funds to upgrade municipal website Website | from page 1

central point of information for the city, its residents, business owners, stakeholders and employees. It is imperative that we continue to invest in our city’s digital infrastructure and seize fiscally responsible opportunities, such as this, to do so.” Dumais added that the upgrades will include increased Americans With Disabilities

Act-compliant tools; improved functionality; increased accessibility for residents and business owners; and enhanced security. A new feature will be ChatBot, a feature powered by artificial intelligence that will assist users to better navigate the website and receive services. “In addition to increased accessibility for users, the in-

tended benefit of ChatBot is to reduce call volumes to city departments by answering basic questions and easily directing users to common services and information located on our website,” said Dumais. Should the transfer be approved, the upgrades will be done by CivicPlus, the city’s current website vendor. Dumais said that once the mea-

sure receives approval, the upgrade would take about six months. “It will be a great improvement,” said Councilor Mark Oram. “It will make it easier for the user.” The request was approved by the council’s Finance Committee, 5-0, on Monday, Jan. 29. It was approved by the full council on Monday, Feb. 12.

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New scoreboard The council also accepted the gift of an electronic scoreboard for the new Dek hockey rink at Ghiloni Park. The scoreboard was donated by the New England Sports Center and friends of the late Wes Tuttle. The scoreboard is in memory of Tuttle, who was an avid player, coach and supporter of youth hockey.

Mayor introduces ‘Chat and Chew’ MARLBOROUGH – The city’s senior citizens are invited to join Mayor J. Christian Dumais for a “Chat and Chew” on Saturday, Feb. 24, at 10 a.m. at the Marlborough Senior Center, 40 New St. The event is an opportunity for seniors to share their concerns and ideas directly with the mayor while also enjoying a free breakfast. The Marlborough Lions Club has offered to be the sponsor for the inaugural event, and members will be on hand cooking and serving. Seniors who wish to attend should call the senior center at 508-485-6492 to register. Rides to the event can be provided by the senior center. If you need a ride to the event, please indicate that when signing up.

Rep. Hogan to hold February office hours

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HUDSON – Rep. Kate Hogan (D-Stow) will be holding office hours on Friday, Feb. 16, between 11 a.m. and noon at the Hudson Senior Center at 29 Church St. The office hours are meant for constituents who want a one-on-one meeting with Hogan. Hogan’s district includes Hudson, Bolton, Maynard and Stow. If you cannot attend the office hours and have any concerns or issues, contact her office at 617-722-2600 or kate.hogan@mahouse. gov.

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024 • 5

COMMUNITY NEWS

Hudson Public Schools present $44M budget to Select Board Budget | from page 1

“pretty common” for that to happen because it is easier for the current one to make a bid as it already has the buses available. It can take a year and a half for a new bidder to get the buses and fulfill the contract, according to Gale. “It’s a problem that’s happening annually,” said Reagan. One aspect of the budget discussion was the fact that the revenue received by the district would be lower than the cost of providing the current level of services; something that has been happening statewide and not just in Hudson, according to Reagan. He said the School Choice funds and all but $100,000 in Circuit Breaker funds — which are state issued and used for special education costs — would be needed to address a budget gap. “The costs associated with educating students continues to rise. So what we’re looking at next year, to close the budget gap for FY25, would be the use of over $4 million in one-time funds to close that gap,” said Reagan. Gale said they are “holding out some hope” to get an increase in Chapter 70 funds. ‘Fantastic’ things occurring in HPS Reagan highlighted some of the “fantastic things going on in the Hudson Public Schools” as they want the public schools to be a reason for people to come to and stay in Hudson. One such thing at the high school was the Pathways program for engineering, biomedical and early childhood care where students reach a certain level of certification, Reagan said. The Hudson Public Schools have articulation agreements with Worcester State University in the engineering and the biomedical fields, according to Reagan. In addition, the dual language program continues to expand. The budget will support the program expanding to third grade. Reagan discussed the conditions that contributed to the current fiscal 2025 budget, such as staffing and enrollment. Reagan noted the district is experiencing an enrollment decline of 20% over the past

10 years, although there has been a stabilization of numbers since 2020. He said there has been a statewide enrollment decline, but Hudson has seen a slightly higher rate. At the same time, the highneeds student population has seen an increase of 15%. Highneeds students include English learners and students in special education. “When you have students that have higher needs, you have more costs to provide them with service,” Reagan said. Reagan noted there has been no change in administration and instructional staff, but some increases in support services like school counselors, nurses, psychologists and occupational therapists. He added, “The goal is to have a fairly neutral staffing level from FY24 to 25. We want to make sure we’re not looking to add any more than one, if any positions, overall.” There were support services positions that would be reclas-

sified, Reagan said, because of the end of the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) grants during the pandemic that funded them. Reagan said the aforementioned factors were the reality they faced for the 2025 fiscal year budget, but they appreciated the ongoing support of the Select Board and executive assistant. “We recognize that we’re in this as a partner,” said Reagan Override? Smith thanked members of the Finance Committee and Select Board who were able to attend the tri-board meeting in November to talk about the long-term plan for the schools and the 2025 fiscal year budget. He also thanked Executive Assistant Tom Gregory for meeting with the School Committee’s strategic goal subcommittee a few weeks ago to look at the 2026 fiscal year budget and the financial future of the district.

Another spring tri-board meeting about 2026 could be in the future for the boards because, Smith said, “We foresee that to maintain the services that we have today we’d probably need to kind of approach or discuss a Proposition 2 1/2

override.” He said, “We, the School Committee, haven’t actually voted on the budget yet. We’re going to be doing that in March. We’ll send the final budget book once that’s available.”

Help create items for senior center’s gift shop HUDSON – Volunteers are welcome to donate their time and talent to the Hudson Senior Center Gift Shop, 29 Church St. Help create handcrafted items such as aprons, placemats, knit and crochet, needle arts, bird houses, small paintings, bowl cozies, baby bibs, ornaments, sun catchers, quilted items, handmade jewelry and more. The gift shop will be open Thursdays and Fridays from

9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Starting in March, the shop will be also open on Tuesdays from noon to 3 p.m. To help support the gift shop, call Janice at 978-5689638 or Susan at 978-8975338. The shop is supported by the Friends of the Hudson Senior Center, a 501 (c)3 nonprofit. For updates, visit www. facebook.com/FriendsofHudsonSeniorCenter.

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6 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024

COMMUNITY NEWS

Marlborough Polar Plunge raises $13,000 for Special Olympics By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor MARLBOROUGH – The weather wasn’t quite polar, but it was cold enough. More than 40 brave souls took the plunge to raise money and awareness for the Special Olympics of Massachusetts on Sunday, Feb. 11, at the Special Olympics headquarters on Forest Street. Participants got to use one of the organization’s newest features — Bear Force One, a portable plunge unit. The unit features a tank with a depth of 4 feet, with platforms and ladders on each side. According to Rick Pierce, a co-director for the Law Enforcement Torch Run, which raises funds for Special Olympics, the unit is one of four in the country. It was built specially for Special Olympics of Massachusetts, and it has already been in use for Polar Plunges across the state. “It’s worked out very well,”

Jack Finocchario, a freshman at Marlborough High School, cannonballs his way into Bear Force One, the mobile plunge tank, during the annual Polar Plunge on Sunday, Feb. 11, at the Special Olympics of Massachusetts headquarters in Marlborough. (Photo/Maureen Sullivan)

Marlborough Police Officer Andy LaRose became the first to jump into Bear Force One, the Special Olympics of Massachusetts’ new mobile plunge tank, on Sunday, Feb. 11. (Photo/Maureen Sullivan)

he said. “It’s definitely going to get a lot of use.” “The new tank is rather

Members of the Student Council from Marlborough High School took part in the

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event. “We do a lot of work with Unified and Best Buddies,” said Mary Ellen Klein, the captain of the MHS team and adviser to the Student Council. “I don’t mind getting a little wet and cold.” Several members of the Marlborough Police Department, including Chief David Giorgi and Officer Andy LaRose, also took part. Several participants came in costume; one dressed up as an officer from “Star Trek,” while two sisters from Saugus came as a leopard and a tiger. The MHS team was the event’s top fundraiser, collecting more than $5,300. The top individual fundraiser was Carol Westerman, who collected $4,000. Overall, participants raised more than $13,000. According to Stephanie Esposito of Special Olympics, the Polar Plunge events taking place across Massachusetts will raise close to $1 million this year. Proceeds from the Polar Plunge will help support year-round sports training and competition for more than 14,000 athletes across Massachusetts. For information about Special Olympics, visit https:// www.specialolympicsma. org/

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024 • 7

COMMUNITY HISTORY

Marlborough women have a rich heritage of serving their country in wartime MARLBOROUGH THEN NOW By Linda Rennie History Columnist MARLBOROUGH - During World War I and World War II the women of Marlborough rose to the challenge and enlisted or volunteered. They served in the Army, the Air Force, the Navy, Coast Guard, the Marines, Army Nurse Corps, Yeoman, and the Red Cross. You had to be between the ages of 20 and 36 and have had at least two years of high school. The Marlborough Historical Society is showcasing many of these women who volunteered to serve. The society was able to highlight with pictures and records some of these brave women. On display are seven women who during World War II were in the Coast Guard. Several stayed on through the

Korean War. Also on exhibit are six women who were in the Marine Corps Reserve, two that were with the Red Cross during World War II and two that served in the first World War. The Navy Nurse Corps had three city women and there were 14 more Navy WAVES (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service) during World War II. These are the records and files the society was able to locate. There are 22 Marlborough women on display who served in the Army Nurse Corps. They saw duty in Australia, West Indies, Japan, Italy, Palestine, France, Germany, Algeria, Philippines, and New Guinea. During World War I Eleanor Barnes and Ethel Bryant volunteered with the Red Cross in France from 1918 to 1919. Alice Comstock was with the Red Cross from 1942 to 1951. Gertude Frye was in the Red Cross from 1942 to 1946. Vivienne Humphrey was in the

Vivienne Humphrey, who was in the Cadet Nurse Corps during World War II, is one of the many Marlborough women who served her country during wartime. (Photo/Courtesy of the Marlborough Historical Society)

Cadet Nurse Corps serving at the Harlem Hospital, in New York. These women assisted in nursing the wounds of servicemen during World War II. Many of these women not only served but also suffered difficult losses during their tours. Fanny Kontoyianes, who

served during World War II, lost her husband, Daniel Langerlier. He was killed in action in Germany. Mildred Hudson, who also served during World War II, lost her brother, Burr, in Okinawa. Rachel McDonald, who served as a Yeoman during World I, had a son killed in

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World War II. During World II Anita Garvey, who was an Army nurse in England lost her husband. Catherine Langelier of the Cadet Nurse Corps lost two brothers in the conflict. Marie Robertson was a Russian immigrant who came to the United States after she married Charles Robertson. Charles had been attached to the American Consulate in Shanghai, China. When her husband passed, she entered the Women’s Army Corps, and was part of the Signal Photographic Detachment, stationed in Australia. To these brave women we say thank you. The city of Marlborough is proud of you. The Marlborough Historical Society has photos of these outstanding women on display at the Peter Rice Homestead at 377 Elm Street. If you would like to see them, contact the society through the website (historicmarlborough.org) and arrange a tour.

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8 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024

WHITE CLIFFS SERIES

The history of White Cliffs – Landscape and Interior Architecture By Normand Corbin History Columnist NORTHBOROUGH – Daniel Wesson’s summer mansion in Northborough included beautiful landscaping. His estate along Main Street contained about 30 acres. The mansion was built on a bluff of land that is between the Assabet River and Main Street. At this location it is 100 feet above the Assabet River and 30 feet above Main Street. When the property was originally built, it was surrounded by open fields. He would have had a magnificent view of the town center and the distant hills. The views are no longer available due to the growth of trees around the property. The landscaping included several manmade ponds, a bridge, large fountains and several carriage ways. Stone walls, which still remain, were built along his property lines. Two of the walls start at Main Street and go down to the river whereas a third starts at Maple Street and runs

One of the remaining stone walls marking the original boundary of Daniel Wesson’s property on Main Street. (Photo/Norm Corbin) Spider and Fly window. (Photo/Geoff Wilson)

along the Marguerite Peaslee Elementary School. The walls remain in very good condition. The town of Northborough owns a 1.5 acre of conservation land by the river where one of his ponds was located. The landscape architect for the mansion property was Justin Sackett. Mr Sackett was famous for his landscape designs of public parks and cemeteries near Springfield, Massachusetts. Built in the late 1880s, the White Cliffs mansion is a “Shingle Style” architectural masterpiece. The website www.wentworthstudio.com gives a very

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good review of this architectural style and was used as a reference for this article. This style was developed in New England between 1880 and 1900. It borrowed liberally from other Victorian styles. Architects handled proportion and details as if they were sculptural compositions. Classic interior design elements include; a prominent large front lobby with a grand staircase, ornate fireplace and built-in staircase benches, a floorplan that is open with formal areas off the main lobby and raised wood panelling in the formal rooms. The millwork and metal working would be

very detailed. Stained glass windows are common along with elaborate fireplaces and ornate ceilings. When completed, the White Cliffs contained elaborate carvings, stained glass windows, gas lit chandeliers, 17 fireplaces and 32 rooms. It was said that each room was made of wood from a different part of the world with furniture to match. All the architectural elements described above still remain in Daniel Wesson’s mansion. There is a prominent large main lobby with a grand staircase, fireplace and built-in bench. The stained glass window shown (one of

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many) is the famous Spider and Fly. It is rumored that Mr. Wesson had this window installed to face his inlaws property. Sounds like they might not have gotten along. This is one part in a series of articles on the history of the Daniel B. Wesson “White Cliffs” mansion in Northborough. White Cliffs is a longstanding feature in Northborough. Conversations regarding its future have continued after Town Meeting purchased the mansion in 2017. To educate the community as to its history, the Community Advocate is republishing Normand Corbin’s series in print and online.

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10 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024

COMMUNITY NEWS

Assabet student to head to Junk Kouture Fashion World finals Congratulations to Marlborough High School student Thalia who won the Massachusetts Lions Youth Speech Competition at the Marlborough Lions Club. (Photo/ Courtesy)

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MARLBOROUGH – Elliot Cosco of Marlborough, a senior at Assabet Valley Regional High School, is headed to Salle des Princes in Monaco to attend the Junk Kouture Fashion World Finals. Originally scheduled for London, the competition was changed to this location on the French Riviera. A member of Assabet’s

Elliot Cosco of Marlborough, a senior at Assabet Valley Regional High School, is headed to Salle des Princes in Monaco on the French Riviera to attend the Junk Kouture Fashion World Finals. “The Egoist,” pictured here, is the entry in the competition. (Photo/Courtesy)

Fashion Club, Elliot created a design, “The Egoist,” which was entered in the Junk Kouture New York competition and qualified for the Junk Kouture World Finals. Junk Kouture challenges young people, aged 13 – 18,

to design, upcycle and create high-end couture from recycled materials. Cosco will compete with students from London, Dublin, Abu Dhabi, New York, Milan and Paris. “The Egoist” design features a galaxy of planets made from CDs that surround the model, a space helmet, and a bountiful skirt that represents the infinite galactic universe. MAYOR Christian Dumais was

an honored guest at the Feb. 8 meeting of the Rotary Club of Marlborough. Addressing Rotarians, he showcased his busy first 30 days as Mayor in the City and answered questions from members. Topics he discussed included schools, his redesigned website, a dog park, the “boardwalk,” and more. “Marlborough has so much to offer,” stated Dumais. The Mayor also announced his first “Chat & Chew with Mayor Christian” event on

Saturday, Feb. 24, at 10 a.m. at the Marlborough Senior Center at 40 New St. This event will give Marlborough senior citizens the opportunity to share their concerns and ideas with the Mayor while enjoying a free breakfast. In an effort to bring different portions of the community together, Mayor Christian has asked several non-profit community groups to sponsor the event. This month, it is the Marlborough Lions Club that donated the

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024 • 11

COMMUNITY NEWS

Troop 77 donates hats, gloves and socks to veterans By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

Mayor Christian Dumais was an honored guest at the Feb. 8 meeting of the Rotary Club of Marlborough. Addressing Rotarians, he showcased his busy first 30 days as Mayor. In the photo, Mayor Christian, at left, is surrounded by Rotarians welcoming him to the meeting. (Photo/Courtesy)

food and will be cooking and serving. Seniors can sign up for both the event, and a ride to the event, by Feb. 20, by calling 508-485-6492. THE MARLBOROUGH HIGH SCHOOL Class of 1959 is planning a 65-year reunion on the afternoon of Oct. 9 at the Marlborough Country Club. They are trying to get in touch with several of their classmates. They are: Sue Carter William Fiske Steve Gaucher Lois Leonard Gray Irene Marie Fournier If anyone knows how to reach any of those listed or other class members could they please call Mary Lou at 508-485-6759 or Tish at 508485-8855. “We really would like to reach as many of our classmates as possible,” said Mary Lou, “so if you know someone even if they are not on the list, please call us so we can get in touch with them.”

Feb. 18 – Gail Cappadona Feb. 19 – President’s Day Feb. 20 – Tessa Kinney Feb. 21 – Rick Bennett Feb. 28 – Barbara Stacy, Joan Simoneau and Bob Durand Feb. 29 – Leap Year celebrants Linda Ossing, Diane Burke, Steve LeDuc and Delma Josephson HAPPY ANNIVERSARY Feb. 18 – Bonnie and John Doolin Feb. 26 – Fred and LeeAnn Brewitt Send items for “Marlborough at a Glance” to Mary Wenzel at marysampler@verizon.net. Put GLANCE in the subject line.

HUDSON – Hundreds of pairs of socks and gloves along with hats will be going to veterans, thanks to a successful drive held by Troop 77. The troop looked into holding a hat drive, and they reached out to Veterans Services for feedback. The scouts asked for permission to set up the donation boxes in the elementary schools. There were also donation boxes at Hudson High School and Town Hall, and the troop was present during the Holiday Stroll on Dec. 2. “So, we were really able to get the word out and really have a fantastic response,” said Scoutmaster Brian Candiloro. In total, over 500 items were donated as part of the drive – 303 pairs of socks, 119 hats, 98 pairs of gloves and 16 scarves. The troop was also able to put cash donations toward the purchase of five coats as part of Ocean State Job Lot’s BuyGive-Get program. “We hope our efforts will

Members of Troop 77 recently presented their donations to Veterans Director Brian Stearns. (Photo/Laura Hayes)

keep our veterans comfortable this winter and going forward,” said Troop 77 member Lucas Budiansky. The troop presented the items to Veterans Director Brian Stearns in mid-January. “It all starts here, really, at the local level. You guys have proven leadership and commitment,” said Stearns. “I can’t thank you enough for what you’ve done because when I go to the shelters and I go to the Disabled American Veterans, and they see this, they’re

in tears.” Stearns added that he also gets emotional thinking about it. “I can’t thank you enough for doing what you did, and I appreciate it from the bottom of my heart. These will go to some very needy people,” he said. Troop 77 is intending on holding the drive again in the future. “I think it was so successful that we will definitely be doing it again,” said Candiloro.

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12 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024

COMMUNITY NEWS

Cub Scouts drive up the fun with annual Pinewood Derby Pinewood Derby | from page 1

tered a cheese car complete with a mouse driver. The members of Pack 41 raced first, followed by Pack 31. Den leaders and pack masters acted as the pit crew. They made sure the entries were in their proper slots and kept track of every heat. Six at a time, the entries zipped down the track. Their finish times were recorded electronically and posted instantly. The top entries from each pack race advanced to the city champion race. After that, the Marlborough Hudson Girl Scouts held their own race. Cub Scouts and their families surrounded the staging area, cheering on the entries. For several pack members, this was their final Pinewood Derby. They will soon move on to Boy Scout troops in the city. “It feels weird,” said Colin Barry, who competed in his sixth and final derby. He was last year’s defending champion. He’s heading to Troop 2.

Above: Batman made an appearance. (Photo/Maureen Sullivan) Below: And they’re off. (Photo/Maureen Sullivan)

Cub Scouts and their families watch the heats at the annual Pinewood Derby on Saturday, Feb. 10, at Jaworek Elementary School. (Photo/ Maureen Sullivan)

Winners Pack 31 – 1st, “Worcester Turnpike,” time of 2.575 seconds; 2nd, “Hot Dogger,” 2.646; 3rd, “#2 Pencil,” 2.648 Pack 41 – 1st, car #55, 2.642; 2nd, car #53, 2.648; 3rd, #56, 2.656 Cub Scouts City Race – 1st, car #9, 2.580; 2nd, #21, 2.640; 3rd, #53, 2.647 Marlborough Hudson Girl Scouts – 1st, #25, 2.636; 2nd, #14, 2.642; 3rd, #6, 2.650

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024 • 13

MARLBOROUGH REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NETWORK | REFER | GROW

2024 is off to a great start at MRCC!

appy February everyone. With Valentine’s Day just passed, I thought I would share some love to all of our Chamber Board members (pictured) for taking the time to meet with me on IN THE NEWS two occasions last month to discuss and agree upon all of the great initiatives we have planned for our members in 2024. Want to know who are exceptional group of Board members are and where they work? Visit https:// marlboroughchamber.org/about/directors/. One of the initiatives we discussed at our Board meetings this month (hosted by Crossroads Continuum in Hudson and Embassy Suites

in Marlborough – thank you Lia Spiliotes and Carolyn Sylvester), was getting more members involved on our various committees. Committee participation is a great way for our members to make some great connections with other chamber members while serving the interests of our Chamber and getting recognition for doing so. All of our Board members agreed to join at least one of our committees, which is greatly appreciated. That said, we still need more participation on our committees, so if you are a member or considering becoming a member soon, please consider joining one of the following committees: Ambassador Committee, Events Planning Committee, Government Affairs Committee,

MRCC Board of Directors, Standing Left to Right: Catherine Dressel, Michelle De Oliveira, Luiz DaCosta, Jami Eycleshymer, Tye Jordan, Steve Messineo, Tom Defeudis, A J Maini, and Carolyn Sylvester. Sitting Left to Right: Todd Vroman, Darlene Welch, Mark Vitale, Elizabeth Kelley, Doug Rowe, Gabrielle Luzzi.

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January’s Women’s Professional Networking Group meeting. School to Business Committee, Large Employer Roundtable, and our Marlborough Regional Community Foundation Board. If you are interested and would like more information, please contact us at 508-485-7746 or e-mail us at marlcham@marlboroughchamber.org. The Marlborough Regional Chamber had a great month in January in terms of new members, renewing members, initiatives and events. We also want to share some Valentines’ Day love with all of our new member businesses including Aspen Aerogels, CareGivers-Wellbeing, Christine McShane Creative, Combined Insurance (a CHUBB Company), Golden Group Roofing, Halie Jean Aesthetics, Healing Point Therapeutics, Human Power Solutions, Onyx Counseling and Wellness, Oscars Moving Corporation, Remodart Corp., and Smiling Mouse, LLC. These are all exceptional businesses, and we are excited to have them as part of our Chamber community. To learn more about or get an introduction to one of these businesses, please

contact our offices and we’ll be glad to assist. One of our new initiatives for January was the relaunch of our Women’s Professional Networking Group. Much love to member Michelle Mercier for helping us get this group going again, and to our great sponsors Alltown Fresh, Christopher Heights, Ladybugs Creative, Main Street Bank, and Middlesex Savings Bank for supporting this and our upcoming WPNG events! The first meeting was held at the Marlborough Public Library and we are extremely appreciative of Head Librarian, Sara Belisle for hosting the event. The meeting was “sold out” so to speak and we received some great feedback from all of the women professionals who participated. The next Women’s Professional Networking Group is on February 29th at Crossroads Continuum Headquarters in Hudson from 11:30am to 1:00pm. To register for this and our other great events, visit www.marlboroughchamber.org and select the “EVENTS” menu tab. Thanks for reading and have a great month!

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14 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024

COMMUNITY BUSINESS

Central One donates to African Community Education

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CLINTON – Clinton Savings Bank recently announced the promotion of three staff members: Pam Cutler, Kristen Paige and Jamie Cortes. Cutler was hired in 2019 as the operations manager, and she most recently served as the vice president of operations. Under her new title of SVP of operations, Cutler will continue to be responsible for the management of all aspects of deposit operations, card services, electronic banking, cash management support and retirement services operations. She will also continue to be focused on implementing operational efficiencies and product/process upgrades.

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024 • 15

$86.8 million Shrewsbury schools budget proposed By Evan Walsh Reporter SHREWSBURY – Shrewsbury Public Schools proposed fiscal 2025 budget is hoping to address the district’s postCOVID literacy challenges. Superintendent Joe Sawyer outlined his budget recommendation during the School Committee’s Feb. 7 meeting. The school budget totals $86,825,520, an increase of 4.50% over last year’s amount, Sawyer said. Of the $86.8 million, $74 million — or 86% of the budget — will be allocated for ssalaries, while $3.4 million — or 4% — will go toward transportation. The remaining 10% of the budget will be spent on special education tuition and transportation, educational supplies and vocational tuition. Whereas other budget cycles involve deciding which areas to cut, Sawyer said that

this year’s budget was less painful to create. Sawyer credited the town’s May 2021 override for providing “sufficient resources” for the fiscal 2025 budget. Roughly 60% of town voters approved the override in 2021, which gave the school district much-needed financial support and helped Shrewsbury solve an educational “budget crisis” at the time.” “That stability has been critical. In the post-COVID landscape, it’s been especially important,” Sawyer said. What is proposed The 2025 budget includes investments throughout the district, according to documents obtained by the Community Advocate. For one, the budget funds several positions aimed to increase literacy and language skills, including money for one full-time speech language pathologist, one full-time

English language education teacher, one full-time English language education coordinator and one middle-school reading specialist. The budget also calls for new textbooks and classroom materials for students throughout the district. The literacy and language funding is meant to address district-wide challenges. Roughly 38% of Shrewsbury students’ first language is not English, compared to roughly 26% of students statewide, according to Sawyer’s presentation. In addition, MCAS scores indicate that Shrewsbury elementary-age students’ scores have dropped in recent years. For instance, the percentage of grade-three students meeting or exceeding expectations on the English language test dropped from 81% in 2019 to 64% in 2023. Shrewsbury’s scores are still well above the state average of 44%.

The budget also funds several initiatives aimed to increase well-being in the district, which Sawyer identified as one of the district’s challenges during his State of the District address at the Jan. 24 School Committee meeting. The budget includes one full-time occupational therapist, one full-time clinical coordinator, an adjustment counselor at Shrewsbury High School and one well-being coordinator. These positions will advance the district’s “commitment to the enhanced well-being of all,” budget documents say. The budget also continues the district’s late bus service. “Our school district continues to face significant challenges in a post-pandemic landscape where our schools continue to work to address gaps in learning, [and] ongoing intensive student mental and behavioral health concerns,” Sawyer wrote in his

executive summary of the proposed budget. “This budget allows us to continue to advance our work to address these needs, while maintaining our current personnel and programming, and staying focused on our strategic commitments and priorities.” Shrewsbury ’s average teacher salary, which sits at $86,082, is comparable to nearby communities. Grafton ($80,266) and Westborough ($84,125) are slightly lower, while Hudson ($87,581), Marlborough ($89,120) and Northborough ($103,323) have higher average teacher salariesthan Shrewsbury. Sawyer’s budget is currently unofficial, and in the budget documents he said that “the projections on which this budget recommendation is based will evolve over the course of the coming months.” The School Committee will vote on the budget in subsequent meetings.

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16 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024

COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

BORO Program continues to thrive after 5 years

BVT students from Grafton awards Adams scholarships

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

Blackstone Valley’s 2024 recipients of the John and Abigail Adams Scholarship. (Courtesy Photo)

UPTON – Hard work and academic achievement of students, staff, and parents pays off for 85 Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School seniors who are the proud recipients of a John and Abigail Adams Scholarship. The scholarship provides a credit toward tuition for up to eight semesters of undergraduate education at any Massachusetts public college or university, and they may want to further their vo-

cational and career training with additional education, advanced training and credentials. The first-time score on a high school Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System exam determines eligibility for an Adams scholarship. Adams Scholars receive free tuition at any Massachusetts public college or university, renewable for eight consecutive semesters or four years. Recipients must use the tuition credit in the first fall

semester following their high school graduation and maintain a GPA of 3.0 or better. The following students from Grafton were among the recipients: Tyler Bell, James Benoit, Caitlin Brown, Connor Cohen, Carlie Jensen, Ethan Keenan, Soumith Madadi, George Mahassel, Ava Mills, Joshua Mumford, Grant Purcell, Lily Turcotte, Nicholas Valoras, John Wingate and Casey Wong.

WESTBOROUGH – The Bridging Over to Right Opportunities (BORO) Program is getting ready for another five years of success. The program provided an update to the School Committee on Jan. 3. “It continues to thrive,” said Erin LaPrad, the BORO’s program coordinator. The program provides individualized instruction for students in Westborough Public Schools age 18 to 22; the goal is to prepare these students for independent living, including career development. BORO offers internships with several local businesses, including Curry Printing in Westborough. LaPrad said there are currently seven students in the program, with an increase to 10 students in the near future.

She also announced that the program recently hired a part-time event coordinator. On the Sugar Shack front, LaPrad said the candy business is making more money, thanks to an increase in custom and corporate orders, along with profiles from regional media. The homemade fudge and truffles “are a unique selling point,” she said. The Sugar Shack recently obtained a tablet-style register for sales at pop-up shops and other remote locations. It is also considering the addition of gelato to its offerings, and perhaps a candy truck. The near future could include a renovation to its basement. BORO is working with its landlord, Todd Alexander, to convert the space into a work and storage area. The renovation would bring its restroom to code and add flexible space with moveable walls.

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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 Aspinwall, Rev. Dr. Robert E. of Northborough Brissette, Mary of Hudson Cabral, Januario of Hudson Connors, David of Marlborough Donnelly, Francis of Westborough Edwards, Stephen of Marlborough Flynn, William of Northborough Foley, Gerald of Westborough Gageiro, Maria of Hudson Girouard, Robert of Grafton Glanvill, Betty of Grafton Greene, George formerly of Hudson Guagnini, Richard formerly of Westborough Hinchey-Paz, Maria of Hudson Kentel, June of Southborough Laurence, Joan formerly of Northborough, Plausse, Janet formerly of Hudson Salvatore, Peter of Shrewsbury Sweeney, Patricia formerly of Shrewsbury Trumpolt Sr., Clayton of Hudson Vlahou, Angelis of Hudson Walker, Judith of Grafton Zorina, Natalya of Hudson

Janet Plausse, 88 LINCOLNVILLE, ME - Janet Mae Gustafson Plausse RN, 88, went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Tuesday, January 30, 2024, surrounded by her loving family at the Sussman House in Rockport, ME. Born in Clinton, Massachusetts, she was the daughter of Carl and Ruth Peel Gustafson. Janet is survived by her beloved husband of nearly 60 years, H. Robert Plausse of Lincolnville; her sons, Scott Plausse and his wife Lynn of Dunstable, MA, Bradford Plausse of Bridgwater, MA; six grandchildren, Christopher Plausse and his wife Emily stationed with the Air Force in OK, Nicholas Plausse

of Bridgwater, MA, Jessica Sullivan and her husband Tyler of Townsend, MA, Matthew Plausse and his companion Kelsey Whelihan of Pepperell, MA, Jenna Plausse of South Boston, MA, Kyle Plausse of Dunstable, MA; two great-grandchildren, Haiden Plausse and Cameron Plausse; and a son-in-law Joel Boneface of Lille, France. She was predeceased by her daughter Lisa Spencer. Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home of Rockland, ME.

Richard A. Guagnini, 85 HOLDEN - Richard Angelo (“Dick”) Guagnini passed away peacefully at Saint Vincent Hospital in Worcester on Monday, February 5, 2024 - his 85th birthday - after a long illness. Richard is blessed to be back in the loving, angelic arms of his wife Gloria, who left us ten months ago in April 2023. Richard leaves behind daughter Lisa Williamson and her husband Peter of Coventry, CT; daughter Cheryl Holden and her partner Daniel Fontes of Marlborough; son Brian and his wife Elaine of Shrewsbury; daughter Stacey Willman and her husband Jeffrey of Rutland; grandchildren Joshua Williamson, Joseph Williamson, Jessica (Williamson) Santos and her husband Paul, Roger Holden, Cody Willman, Tanner Willman, Emma Guagnini, Kate Guagnini, Bayley Willman; and great-granddaughter Quinton Rose Santos. Richard also leaves behind many close friends near and far, including his dear relatives Laura, Salvatore and Lawrence Santino of Staten Island, NY; Brad Guagnini of Signal Mountain, TN; his Godchild Debbie Cuniglio of Babylon, NY; Chris Guagnini of Mamaroneck, NY; and Roger A. Holden of Shrewsbury. A celebration of Richard’s life will be held on Saturday, March 2, 2024 at 10:00 am at Saint Luke The Evangelist Roman Catholic Church in Westborough, MA, with interment to follow at Saint Luke’s Cemetery.

Francis X. Donnelly, 89 WESTBOROUGH - Francis X. Donnelly, 89, of Westborough, MA died Friday, February 2nd, 2024 at UMASS Medical Center. He passed away peacefully of a cardiac event with his beloved wife Ellie at his side. Frank is survived by his wife Elinor (Mollica) Donnelly of Westborough, and his children John Donnelly and his wife Kimberly of Oakwood, OH, Mary Jane Donnelly and her companion William Hastings of Auburn, Kathleen Laliberte and her husband Andre of Marlborough, Nancy Aho and her husband William of Lunenburg, and Robert Donnelly and his wife Michelle of Marvin, NC; his stepchildren Holly Butland and her companion Mike Woodworth of Marlborough, Jill Durand and Matthew Durand of Berlin, and Richard Hatzidakis and his fiancée Stacey Keyes of Millbury; as well as 12 grandchildren, 12 greatgrandchildren, and 2 greatgreat-grandchildren; and 13 step grandchildren. He was predeceased by his daughter Patricia Donnelly, his former wife Barbara (Crotty) Donnelly, and his siblings Mary White and William Donnelly. Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.

June A. Kentel, 83 SOUTHBOROUGH - June A. (Paskavitz) Kentel, 83, of Southborough, died January 31, 2024, at her home in Southborough. She was the daughter of the late Bernard and Stacia (Prokopovich) Paskavitz and wife of the late Peter S. Kentel who died in 2023. She was predeceased by her son Paul, who died in 2017 and her sister, Carol (Paskavitz) Horne, who died in 2013 in Florida. June is survived by her children, Susan Simmons and her husband Robert of Wolfeboro, NH, Richard and his wife Teresa of Hudson, Linda Flagg of Southborough, Sheryl Jolly and her husband Robert of Worcester and Peter S. Kentel

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024 • 17

of Wolfeboro. She is also survived by her brother Ronald and his wife Carolyn (Ross) Paskavitz of Rockport, MA, 13 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren. The Morris-Johnston Funeral Home of Southborough assisted with arrangements.

Joan M. Laurence, 82 MIRROR LAKE, NH/NORTHBOROUGH - Joan Maureen (Dennehy) L a u re n c e , age 82, o f M i r ro r Lake, New Hampshire, formerly of Northborough, Massachusetts, passed away in Portsmouth, New Hampshire on Wednesday, January 31, 2024. Joan was born on June 8, 1941 in Waltham, Massachusetts to Paul and Thelma Dennehy, the youngest of seven children. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 59 years, James Francis Laurence. Joan is survived by her three sons, James (Karen), Andrew (Lisa), and David; and her ten grandchildren, Katie, Matthew, Tripper, Tucker, Teagan, Trina, Tommy, Tyler, Drew, and Sophie. Joan was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Dianne Michelle Laurence Saitta (Paul). Hays Funeral Home of Northborough assisted with arrangements.

Natalya A. Zorina, 70 HUDSON - Natalya A. (Glazunova) Zorina, 70, of Hudson, MA, died on Tuesday, January 30, 2024 at Lahey Hospital & Medical Center in Burlington, MA. Natalya was born and raised in Russia, daughter of the late Alexander Glazunov and Alexandra (Korotyaeva). Natalya is survived by her husband Vladimir N. Zorin of Hudson, MA and her son, Sergey Zorin of Weston, MA. She also leaves her sister, Alla Demidova of Russia along with other relatives and close friends. Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted with arrangements.

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

Barbara Barnes, 87 WESTBOROUGH - In the early morning hours of February 1, 2024, Barbara Mae Barnes (born Barbara King) passed away surrounded by loved ones in her family home of more than 60 years in Westborough, MA. Born July 21, 1936, as the fourth of seven children, Barbara is survived by sisters Priscilla Malo, Sandra Bianco and brother Richard E. King Jr. Barbara was met in heaven by predeceased siblings Fredrick King, Beverly Johnson, and Muriel Ayres, as well as parents Richard E. King and Dorothy Bodge King. She married twice, first to Walter Aldrich Jr. and then to Robert Barnes, both of whom passed. From those marriages Barbara was blessed with four biological children and many bonus children, all of whom are grieving the loss of a wise and compassionate soul. She is survived by her children, Deborah Waska and husband Dave of Appleton ME, Suzanne Rupard, Walter W. Aldrich III, Robert Barnes, and wife Linda all of Westborough, MA. Barbara is also missed by bonus children: Roger Barnes and wife Virginia of Westborough, MA, Ronald Barnes and wife Carol of West Boylston, MA, and reunited in afterlife by Judy Barnes of Webster, MA. Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.

Maria G. Hinchey-Paz, 83 HUDSON - On Thursday February 1, 2024 Maria Gloria Batista Rego Hinchey-Paz passed away unexpectedly at the age of 83. She is now reunited with her beloved son Phillip Batista Hinchey, who died in March of 2023, and her husband Manuel Francisco Paz, who died in 2013. She is survived by her daughter, Elita Gould and her husband Brian Gould of Marlboro, and her three grandchildren, Ian, Kathryn and Bethany Obituaries | 18

18 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024

COMMUNITY OBITUARIES Obituaries | from page 17

Gould; her brother Manuel Rego and his wife MaryBeth Rego of Clinton; her sistersin-law Elisia Rego of Lowell and Lucrenia Rego of Hudson; brother-in-law Januario Cabral of Hudson; as well as many nieces, nephews, godchildren and cousins, including her godchildren Ema Cabral Burke and George Cabral, who were very close to her heart. She was also predeceased by her siblings, Jose Batista Rego, Joao Batista Rego, Maria do Carmo Cabral and Fernanda Brasil, her nephews Eduardo Rego and Nicholas Rego and her former husband William Hinchey. Tighe Hamilton Regional Home of Hudson assisted with arrangements.

Peter F. Salvatore, 86 SHREWSBURY - Peter F. Salvatore, 86 of Shrewsbury, p a s s e d away peacefully on S a t u r d a y, January 27, 2024 at The Blaire House of Worcester. Peter is survived by his

FOURTH-ESTATE FANTASY

longtime companion of nearly 46 years, Joan Skaff; two sons, Anthony Salvatore of Webster, Mark Salvatore of Florida, a daughter Linda Salvatore of Florida, a sister Amanda Teczar of Worcester and several nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by a son, Peter M. Salvatore, a brother, John Salvatore, Jr.; two sisters, Carmella Morris and Mary Pascarelli. Mercadante Funeral Home of Worcester assisted with arrangements.

Mary Brissette, 101 MARLBOROUGH - Mary Brissette, 101, of Marlborough and formerly of Hudson passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 1, 2024 in St. Patrick’s Manor, Framingham, MA surrounded by her loving family. Mary was predeceased by her husband of 64 years, William J. Brissette in 2005. She is survived by her 4 children, David A. Brissette of Marlborough, Richard A. Brissette and his wife Laura

of Hudson, James W. Brissette and his wife Lynne of ME, Jeanne M. Donovan and her husband Richard of ME, 10 grandchildren, Kristen, Michele, Pamela, William, Christina, Lindsay, Steven, Bridget, Colleen and Brendan, 8 great grandchildren, her son-in-law Ken Benway of NC, and several nieces, nephews and extended family members. Besides her husband, Mary was predeceased by 2 children, William J. Brissette Jr. and Christine Benway, her brother Albert Garcia and daughter-inlaw, Adelia Brissette. The Short & Rowe Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.

David Connors, 73 MARLBOROUGH - David “Bumpah” Connors, 73, of Marlborough, died Wednesday, January 31, 2024, at U M a s s Memorial Health Marlborough Hospital. He was the son of the late Edmond and Rita (Tardif) Connors.

David is survived by his sister, Laurie Ibbotson and her husband Bill, and his brothers, Peter Connors, John Connors and his wife Anabelle, Michael Connors and his wife Laurie, nephews Craig Woods and his wife Donna Vachon, Mark Woods and his wife Tara, and grandnieces and grandnephews Aiden, Malory, Colin and Garett. Visiting hours for David will be held Thursday, February 15, 2024, from 5:007:00pm at the Slattery Funeral Home, Inc., 40 Pleasant Street, Marlborough, MA 01752.

tia. He is also survived by his daughter, Carol Flynn of Westboro; his son Kevin Flynn of Spencer, his wife Kim and their son Jake; and his daughter Kathleen Henry of Sterling, her husband Jason and their daughters Caitlin and Meghan. Bill also leaves his brother Gerry Flynn and wife Camille of North Andover and their children Mark and Roselle. He is predeceased by his brother Robert Flynn and sister Patricia Flynn. Hays Funeral Home of Northborough assisted with arrangements.

William J. Flynn, 79

Angelis Vlahou, 75

NORTHBOROUGH - William Joseph Flynn, affectionately known to all as “Bill”, passed away peacefully at the age of 79 years old on February 5, 2024. At the time of his passing, Bill was surrounded by the supportive love of his family. Surviving Bill is his beloved and devoted wife, Cheryl Flynn. She lovingly cared for him for many years as he battled vascular demen-

HUDSON - Dr. Angelis Vlahou, a beloved brother, uncle, friend and professor, passed away Ja n . 2 9, 2 0 2 4 , following his battle with ALS. He is survived by his six siblings, friends, cousins, aunts and uncles in the United States and many family members and friends in Greece. Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted with arrangements.

SUPER CROSSWORD

Answers on page 20

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024 • 19

LEGAL NOTICES

SHREWSBURY TOWN OF SHREWSBURY ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS PUBLIC HEARINGS RICHARD D. CARNEY MUNICIPAL OFFICE BUILDING 100 MAPLE AVENUE SHREWSBURY, MA February 26, 2024 6:30 PM To hear the appeal Renan Raasch of 19 Shady Lane Ave, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 for a Special Permit to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section IV B to alter and extend a pre-existing nonconforming dwelling by constructing a second floor addition upon property located at 19 Shady Lane Ave in the Residence B-1 zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 27 Plot 222000. February 26, 2024 6:30 PM To hear the appeal of Raja Raghavan of 62 N. Quinsigamond Ave, Shrewsbury MA 01545, for a Special Permit to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section IV.B to expand a pre-existing nonconforming dwelling thirty-seven feet (37’) from the rear property line where forty feet (40’) is required and a side yard setback of seven and five tenths (7.5’) feet where ten (10’) feet is required upon property located at 62 N. Quinsigamond Ave in the Residence B-2 zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 31 Plot 141000. February 26, 2024 6:30 PM To hear the appeal of Frank Panarelli of 19 Whippoorwill Drive Shrewsbury, MA 01545 for a Special Permit to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section IV.B to reconstruct a pre-existing nonconforming single family dwelling upon property located at 19 Whippoorwill Drive in the Residence B-1 zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 23 Plot 321000. February 26, 2024 6:30 PM To hear the appeal of Richard Ricker of 11 Maple Ave Shrewsbury, MA 01545 for a Special Permit to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section IV.B to maintain the existing nonconforming number of parking spaces upon property located at 504 - 512 Boston Turnpike in the Commercial Business zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 33 Plot 091000. February 26, 2024 6:30 PM To hear the appeal of Michael Connors of 779 Hartford Turnpike, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 for a Variance to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section II Definitions for Building Materials Salesroom to exceed twenty five percent (25%) of the floor area devoted to display and sales upon property lo-

cated at 779 Hartford Turnpike in the Limited Industrial zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 43 Plot 025000. Peter C. Mulcahy, Clerk February 9th and February 16th

SHREWSBURY PLANNING BOARD SHREWSBURY, MASSACHUSETTS NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING In accordance with the provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 40A, Section 5, the Shrewsbury Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday, March 7, 2024 at 7:00 PM in the Selectboard Meeting Room, at the Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts regarding proposed amendments to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw, as follows: ARTICLE To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning Bylaw of the Town of Shrewsbury, Section VII. E (Signs), by inserting regulations with regard to digital signage or to take any other action in relation thereto. ARTICLE To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning Bylaw of the Town of Shrewsbury, Section II Definitions, to amend the definition of indoor or outdoor farmer’s markets with regard to the allowable ratio of vendors of arts and crafts items at a farmer’s market, or to take any other action in relation thereto. ARTICLE To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning Bylaw of the Town of Shrewsbury, as follows: In Section II Definitions, amend the definition of horizontal and vertical mixed use developments; In Section III.A Establishment of Districts, insert “Transit Oriented Development Overlay”; In Section III.B District Intent, insert narrative describing The Transit Oriented Development Overlay (TOD) District as intended to encourage additional smart growth development in accordance with the purposes of MGL c. 40R, satisfy the requirements of MGL c. 40A 3a, and contribute to the Town’s housing growth goals.; In Section III.C Location of Districts, insert a new Section VII.X to be entitled “TOD Overlay District”’; and To amend the Zoning Map of the Town of Shrewsbury by adding the TOD Overlay District as shown on the Exhibit Plan as on file with the Office of the Town Clerk, or to take any other action in relation thereto. The Draft Zoning Exhibit and Plan may be seen on the Planning Board webpage at: https://shrewsburyma. gov/284/Planning-Board

Call 508.366.5500 to advertise your legal notice ARTICLE To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning Bylaw of the Town of Shrewsbury, Section VII by inserting a new Section W, to be entitled “Senior Housing Overlay,” to establish an Overlay Zoning District in regard to Senior Housing, or to take any other action in relation thereto. The complete text, where applicable, may be seen during regular business hours in the Office of the Planning and Economic Development Department, the Office of the Town Clerk at the Municipal Office Building at 100 Maple Avenue and the Shrewsbury Public Library at 609 Main Street. SHREWSBURY PLANNING BOARD Maurice DePalo, Chairman Stephan M. Rodolakis, Vice Chairman Julie Holstrom., Clerk Purnachander Rao Konstantin Eliadi

HUDSON

HUDSON COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS WILLIAM FRANCIS GALVIN SECRETARY OF THE COMMONWEALTH WARRANT FOR PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY To either of the Constables of the Town of HUDSON GREETING: In the name of the Commonwealth, you are hereby required to notify and warn the inhabitants of said town who are qualified to vote in the Primaries to vote at: PRECINCT I & PRECINCT V PRECINT II PRECINCT III & PRECINCT IV PRECINCT VI

Hudson High School, 69 Brigham Street Glen Road Community Center, 4 Glen Road Quinn Middle School, 201 Manning Street Town Hall, 78 Main Street

TUESDAY, 5th DAY OF MARCH, 2024 from 7:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. for the following purpose: To cast their votes in the Presidential Primary for the candidates of political parties for the following office: PRESIDENTIAL PREFERENCE...............................................FOR THIS COMMONWEALTH STATE COMMITTEE MAN................. MIDDLESEX & WORCESTER SENATORIAL DISTRICT STATE COMMITTEE WOMAN ........... MIDDLESEX & WORCESTER SENATORIAL DISTRICT TOWN COMMITTEE...........................................................................TOWN OF HUDSON

LEGAL NOTICE The Hudson Select Board will hold a public hearing on an application to transfer, an All Alcohol Package Store License, from Daigneault’s Liquors, Inc. d/b/a Daigneault’s Liquors, Albert Daigneault, Manager to Boski & Ashil’s, Inc. d/b/a Thirst Quench Liquor’s, Ashil, Manager, said License located at 66 Broad Street, Hudson, MA 01749. The Hearing will be held at the Town of Hudson Police Department located at 911 Municipal Drive, Hudson, MA 01749 on Monday, February 26, 2024 at 7:00PM. For more information call 978-562-9963.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING HUDSON HOUSING AUTHORITY Notice is hereby given that the Hudson Housing Authority will hold a Public Hearing at 6:30 p.m. on 4/4/2024 at the Norma Oliver Village community center, 4 Glen Road, Hudson, MA regarding its 2024-2028 5-Year Action Plan and 2024 Annual Plan for our federal public housing development, developed in compliance with the Quality Housing and Work Responsibility Act of 1998. The 5-Year Action Plan provides information on intended projects funded through the HUD capital fund program for funding years 2024-2028. The Annual Plan provides information on intended projects for the current year’s funding through the HUD capital fund program. A copy of the Plan will be available for review on 2/12/2024 at the principal office of the HHA, 8 Brigham Circle, Hudson, MA 01749 and at www.hudsonhousing.org. Questions may be directed to Jaclyn A. Beaulieu, Executive Director, at jaclynp@hudsonhousing.org.

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20 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024

COMMUNITY NEWS

Shrewsbury Youth and Family Services to hold giving gala in May By Evan Walsh Reporter SHREWSBURY – Shrewsbury Youth and Family Services (SYFS) will hold its annual Evening of Giving Gala on May 18 at The Haven Country Club in Boylston. This year, SYFS is offering a Las Vegas experience, featuring casino games, a silent auction and food and desserts. “We’re excited to host an unforgettable evening of support for mental health and community well-being. The Las Vegas theme promises a night of entertainment and

“

mental health counseling and social service programs. “SYFS continually adapts to community needs, recognizing the impact of screen use on mental health. A study from Yale [University] and Columbia [University] revealed links between excessive screen time and internalizing problems in youth. In response, SYFS launched the Screen Time Reduction Education Program to [give] both youth and parents in multiple school districts a proactive step endorsed by the surgeon general’s advisory on social media’s effects on mental health. It’s been so

We’re excited to host an unforgettable evening of support for mental health and community well-being. Lynn Lynch SYFS Interim Executive Director

purpose, and we invite the community to join us in making a positive impact,” says SYFS Interim Executive Director Lynn Lynch. The event will also feature signature cocktails, a hosted bar and dinner options. Among

the casino games will be blackjack, poker and roulette. All proceeds from the evening will support SYFS’s mission to strengthen the emotional and social well-being of individuals and families through equitable access to

successful that we have already received requests to modify the program for both younger children and adults,” said Jennifer Rifkin, SYFS’s director of clinical services. Tickets to the Evening of Giving Gala are $200 per person. To purchase tickets, visit https://www.classy.org/ event/2024-syfs-eveningof-giving-las-vegas-nights/ e494224. The deadline to purchase tickets is Saturday, May 4, or until tickets are sold out. For more information about SYFS, visit www.syfs-ma.org.

COMMUNITY COMMUNITY CLASSIFIED 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

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POLICE

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024 • 21

FIRE

Hudson police use drone to locate missing juveniles

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

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

Hudson Police used a drone to help locate two missing juveniles. (Photo Courtesy of Hudson Police)

HUDSON – With the help of a drone, the Hudson Police Department was able to locate two missing children in the woods. On Feb. 7, at around 7:45 p.m., police received reports that bright lights were shining into passing vehicles from a wood line. Officers responded, and two juveniles fled into the woods. According to Hudson police, the children had been reported as missing earlier in the day from a neighboring community. According to police, one was quickly located while the

other fled into a thick, dense wooded area. A drone was deployed. Approximately 1700 feet into the woods from where the juvenile had entered, the drone found the juvenile lying down after about 26 minutes of searching. Officer Andrew Garceau and Sgt. Sam Leandres were directed to this location by the drone operator and located the juvenile. Both children were transported to the hospital for evaluation, and the people who reported them as missing were contacted.

Two residents victim of ‘Grandparent Scam’ NORTHBOROUGH – Northborough police are warning residents to be diligent following the discovery of a “Grandparent Scam” last week. According to police, the scam is a situation “where the victim is contacted by someone indicating that their grandchild is in some type of trouble, either in jail or hurt etc., and they request a large

amount of money to help their grandchild.” “It is an elaborate, wellthought-out scam,” and two residents have already been taken in, said police. If a resident has been contacted, and the resident believes it’s a scam, contact the Northborough Police Department at 508-393-1515 or police@northborough.ma.us.

Saturday, Feb. 3 9:09 p.m. Lake St. Animal complaint. Sunday, Feb. 4 3:36 p.m. Grafton St. Harassment. Monday, Feb. 5 10:57 a.m. Chestnut St. Animal complaint. 1:45 p.m. Rice St. Larceny. 2:22 p.m. General Ave. Animal complaint. 3:30 p.m. Arrested, Glenn D. Morreale, 52, of 20 Yew St., Douglas, for shoplifting by asportation (5 cts), possession of Class B substance, receive stolen property -$1200, larceny over $1200, shoplifting by concealing mdse, op MV with license suspended, and Stacy A. Burl, 49, of 11 ½ W Sutton Rd., Sutton, for oper MV with license suspended/ revoked, receive stolen property -$1200, warrants. Tuesday, Feb. 6 7:57 a.m. Caroline Ave. Identity theft. 8:05 a.m. Hartford Tpke. Road hazard – trees/wires/debris. 10:52 a.m. Lake St. Animal complaint. 3:59 p.m. Memorial Dr. Dispute. 4:40 p.m. Arbor Cir. Larceny. 9:38 p.m. Arrested, Katelyn Marie Pimental, 30, of 26 Thayer Pond Dr., Unit 1, N Oxford, for possession Class B substance.

Marlborough

Thursday, Feb. 1 12:26 a.m. Cider Hill Condominiums/ BPRE. Vandalism. 3:25 a.m. Chestnut St. Fraud/forgery. 12:12 p.m. South Bolton St./Granger Blvd. Erratic operator. 1:57 p.m. Waldron’s CarStar/Elm St. Fraud/forgery. 3:41 p.m. Central St. Threats. 5:44 p.m. Vega Rd. Vandalism. 5:48 p.m. Arrested, Danirelis Alida Ortiz Sanchez, 23, of 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY, for larceny under $1200, conspiracy, A&B. 8:19 p.m. Vals Ln. Fraud/forgery. Friday, Feb. 2 12:18 p.m. Cook Ln./Hildreth St. MVA with injuries. 12:34 p.m. Stone Gate Apartments/

Redbud Way. Fraud/forgery. 2:12 p.m. Arrested, David M. Powell, 34, of 149 Phelps St., Marlborough, on true warrants, possess Class C drug. 10:37 p.m. Winter Ave. Threats. Saturday, Feb. 3 12:31 p.m. Greenwood St. Fraud/ forgery. 12:35 p.m. New England Sports Center/Donald J. Lynch Blvd. MVA property damage only. 2:35 p.m. South St. Animal complaint. Sunday, Feb. 4 8:00 a.m. Pheasant/Fitchburg Sts. Erratic operator. 11:36 a.m. Berlin Rd. Auto theft. 1:31 p.m. Vacant (old Special Event Bridal)/Broad St. Assault. 3:18 p.m. 7-11 Convenience Store/ Broad St. Trespassing. 6:02 p.m. Mosaka Hibachi Sushi & Bar/Apex Dr. B&E into MV. 6:28 p.m. Design Pak Lofts/Maple St. Harassment. Monday, Feb. 5 1:39 p.m. Vega Rd. Fraud/forgery. 2:20 p.m. Stevens St. Vandalism. 3:05 p.m. Target/Donald J. Lynch Blvd. Fraud/forgery. 3:41 p.m. Pleasant St. Threats. 4:29 p.m. Lakeshore Dr. Fraud/ forgery. 5:06 p.m. Arrested, Thomas Benjamin, 56, homeless, on true warrants. 5:31 p.m. Hosmer St. Fraud/forgery. 8:49 p.m. Marlborough Court Condominiums/Hosmer St. Fraud/forgery. 9:45 p.m. The Meadows at Marlborough/Broadmeadow Rd. Animal complaint. Tuesday, Feb. 6 1:04 a.m. Farm Rd. Animal complaint. 3:07 p.m. Liberty Hill Apts/Main St. Trespassing. 7:19 p.m. Holiday Inn/Lakeside Ave. Trespassing. Wednesday, Feb. 7 6:51 a.m. Bolton St./Blaiswood Ave. Animal complaint. 10:05 a.m. Harvard St. Fraud/ forgery. 10:13 a.m. Arrested, Joseph James Daily, 23, of 149 Phelps St., Marlborough, on true warrant. 12:06 p.m. Liberty Hill Apts/Main St. Trespassing. 1:43 p.m. Whitcomb School/Union St. Assault. 1:53 p.m. Marshalls Dept. Store/ BPRW. Larceny. 3:44 p.m. Mechanic St. Animal complaint. 4:55 p.m. Stone Gate Apts/Saint Ives Way. Fraud/forgery. 6:19 p.m. Lakeside Ave./BPRW. Erratic operator. 10:08 p.m. Sawin St. Vandalism. Thursday, Feb. 8 1:20 a.m. Arrested, Joshua Louis

Hurtado, 28, of 655 Boston Post Rd., Apt. 2204, Sudbury, for MV lights violation, fail to stop for police, speeding in viol special regulation.

Northborough

Wednesday, January 31 6:30 a.m. Arrested, Mellisa Nicole Giedraitis, 39, of 287 Stafford St., Charlton, for possess Class A drug, possess Class E drug. 12:26 p.m. Belmont St. Larceny. 6:55 p.m. Arrested, Wichita Long Vo, 45, of 20 Swan Ave., Worcester, for op MV with license suspended. Thursday, Feb. 1 7:52 p.m. Arrested, Declan James Belliveau, 22, of 86 Rice Ave., Northborough, for negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-drugs, possess open container of alcohol in MV, marked lanes violation. Friday, Feb. 2 9:37 a.m. River/Main Sts. Accident: PED/BIC. Saturday, Feb. 3 8:48 a.m. Northgate Rd. Animal calls. 3:46 p.m. Pleasant St. Dog complaint. 4:29 p.m. Village Dr. Scams. 8:07 p.m. Shops Way. Fraud. Sunday, Feb. 4 8:03 a.m. Hudson St. Animal calls. 5:51 p.m. Otis St. Dog complaint. Monday, Feb. 5 12:15 p.m. Crawford St. Scams. 5:14 p.m. Collins Rd. Fraud. 5:44 p.m. Birch Hill Rd. Larceny.

Grafton

Sunday, Jan. 28 11:20 a.m. Old Westboro Rd. Accident - personal injury. Monday, Jan. 29 7:51 a.m. Providence Rd. Harassment. 1:28 p.m. Hingham Rd. Larceny/ theft. Wednesday, Jan. 31 8:50 a.m. Worcester St. Larceny/ theft. 8:38 p.m. Providence Rd. Harassment. Thursday, Feb. 1 6:52 a.m. Providence Rd. Accident – with animal. 9:24 a.m. Worcester/Bridge Sts. Accident – personal injury. 10:02 a.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/ identity theft. 11:23 a.m. Providence Rd. Harassment. Friday, Feb. 2 1:24 a.m. Mass Pike W. Accident – personal injury. 8:56 a.m. Brigham Hill Rd. Animal complaint. Saturday, Feb. 3 6:04 a.m. Worcester/Bridge Sts. Road rage.

22 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024

COMMUNITY SPORTS Algonquin wins Mid-Wach league gymnastics championship By Evan Walsh Reporter

A Shrewsbury gymnast charges toward the vault. (Photo/Evan Walsh)

SHREWSBURY – Local gymnastics teams gathered at Shrewsbury High School on Feb. 10 for the Midland-Wachusett League gymnastics championships. Groton-Dunstable, Marlborough, Shrewsbury, and Westborough competed, but Algonquin Regional High School ultimately clinched the league title with a score of 139.550. The team collectively scored first on the beam and floor events — while placing second in the other two competitions — to grab the victory. Algonquin’s Kiera Akus and captain Maddie Ho turned in strong performances, placing second and third respectively all around. Groton-Dunstable’s Samantha DiFonte and Charlotte Woodbury placed first and third respectively all around, propelling G-D to sec-

An Algonquin gymnast competes in the bars event. (Photo/Evan Walsh)

A Westborough gymnast competes on the beam. (Photo/ Evan Walsh)

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ond place with 138.950. Marlborough placed third at 133.800, with Shrewsbury and Westborough taking fourth and fifth. Shrewsbury (132.700) and Westborough (131.250) split the Team Sportsmanship Award. Top performers in each event included: FLOOR [1] Kiera Akus (Marlborough) – 9.250 [T2] Maddie Ho (Algonquin) – 9.200 [T2] Charlotte Woodbury (GD) – 9.200 [T4] Lily Robinson (Marlborough) – 9.150 [T4] Erica DeMichaelis (Algonquin) – 9.150 [6] Emily Kratzer (Marlborough) – 0.050 BEAM [T1] Samantha DiFonte (G-D) – 9.000 [T1] Kiera Akus (Algonquin) – 9.000 [3] Maddie Ho (Algonquin) – 8.850 [T4] Lily Robinson (Marlborough) – 8.700 [T4] Sharon Li (Westborough) – 8.700 [T6] Emily Kratzer (Marlbor-

ough) – 8.600 [T6] Erica DeMichaelis (Algonquin) – 8.600 [T6] Lina Scheffel (Shrewsbury) – 8.600 BARS [1] Charlotte Woodbury (G-D) – 9.250 [2] Samantha DiFonte (G-D) – 9.200 [3] Emily Kratzer (Marlborough) – 9.000 [4] Maya Regan (Algonquin) – 8.900 [5] Lily Robinson (Marlborough) – 8.800 [6] Maddie Ho (Algonquin) – 8.200 VAULT [1] Samantha DiFonte (G-D) – 9.500 [2] Lina Scheffel (Shrewsbury) – 8.850 [T3] Kiera Akus (Algonquin) – 8.800 [T3] Imani Curran (Westborough) – 8.800 [5] Erica DeMichaelis (Algonquin) – 8.750 [T6] Maya Regan (Algonquin) – 8.700 [T6] Fiona Smith (Westborough) – 8.700 [T6] Maeve Martin (Westborough) – 8.700

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024 • 23

COMMUNITY SPORTS

O’Connor leads Shrewsbury as Colonials clinch state playoff spot

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Shrewsbury’s Amanda Kalinowski fights through contact as she shoots the ball. (Photo/Evan Walsh)

By Evan Walsh Reporter SHREWSBURY – The Shrewsbury Colonials girls basketball team went 3-17 last season. This year, they’re set to compete in the state playoff tournament. The Colonials — who started the week likely, but not guaranteed, to have an opportunity in the postseason — officially punched their ticket to the tournament by defeating the Westford Academy Ghosts, 36-27, on Feb. 12 at Shrewsbury High School. Coming off three consecutive losses and needing just one more win to cement their spot in the playoffs, the Colonials started their penultimate regular-season game strong, jumping out to an early 14-4 first-quarter lead. Angelina Baldor and Ava O’Rourke both hit 3-point shots to harness the momentum, and Westford Academy’s offense couldn’t keep up. “You’ve got to set the tone. You get the other team having to exert a lot more energy early in the game, and it’s going to

show up late in the game. It sends a message too – maybe they can’t come back. You get to them mentally,” Shrewsbury Head Coach Nate Skermont said. But the Ghosts did what ghosts do best: they snuck up from behind and gave Shrewsbury a scare. Out of nowhere, Westford Academy was on the offensive, outscoring Shrewsbury 10-5 in the second quarter and countering the Colonials’ fast start. Alexa Coward — who made two 3-point shots — and Kaitlyn Pepin each tallied 8 points for the Ghosts. While Westford Academy entered halftime with confidence, Shrewsbury would soon become “ghostbusters.” The Colonials moved to manto-man defense to solve the Ghosts’ offensive attack. Both teams added 5 points in the third quarter, but Shrewsbury pulled ahead in the final frame. The Colonials’ fourth-quarter dominance was fueled by freshman Addison O’Connor. O’Connor, Shrewsbury’s leading scorer, dropped 10 points in the fourth and scored 20 points total.

“It’s a lot of pressure – being a freshman. But it’s a lot of fun. The girls are really good to play with, and it’s good to get the competition from higher players and playing with seniors and juniors and sophomores. It’s definitely a lot, but I love it,” O’Connor said after the game. “She’s the Energizer Bunny. She’s got so much energy out there… It’s a situation where she rebounds extremely well, she’s a post presence, and she’s got a good mid-range. She’s only a freshman, so the sky’s the limit for her,” Skermont told the Community Advocate. Amanda Kalinowski added 6 points for the Colonials. After the team’s less-thanstellar record last year — which included a loss to Westford Academy — officially making the playoffs was especially meaningful for the Colonials. “We wanted to get back to states. We didn’t make states last year, and we’ve more than tripled the win total from last year. That’s a testament to the locker room and the culture they’ve created this year. We’ve guaranteed ourselves an extra game here,” Skermont said.

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24 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, February 16, 2024

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