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Marlborough Hudson

City Council halts proposal to increase senior assessor hours

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – A proposal on whether to increase the hours of the city’s senior assessor from 35 to 40 hours will return to the City Council after it was halted.

During its meeting on March 25, council members discussed the proposal, which had been approved by the Finance Committee 4-1.

When it came time for a vote, Council President Michael Ossing moved to suspend the first reading and adopt. Seven councilors voted to approve — one short of what was needed for passage.

Following a brief recess, Councilor Sean Navin recommended a motion to reconsider, which was approved.

The proposal will be part of the City Council’s next agenda on Monday, April 8. Eight votes will still be required to carry the proposal.

Should it be approved, the extra hours would be used toward more field inspections, according to Principal Assessor John Valade. The proposal also called for a transfer of $3,653 to cover the salary increase for the remainder of fiscal 2024.

The main issue was increasing the hours for one position while other 35-hour-per-week positions remain untouched.

“This is a poor precedent,” said Councilor Teona Brown. “We need to take a look at the whole picture.”

Councilor Mark Oram said he’s been waiting on the city’s Human Resources Department to conduct a salary survey.

“I hope this is the spark that gets HR going,” he said.

Councilor Kathleen Robey agreed that a salary survey should be undertaken.

“This could be a conversation that the council has,” she said.

Ossing pointed out that the proposal was the result of a signed agreement between the city and the union, and that it should be supported.

During the Finance Committee meeting earlier this month, there was discussion about a $200,000 fund with the assessors office used for outside contractors. The committee was told that should the extra hours be approved, this budget would be reduced.

By Evan Walsh Reporter

collected at Ward Park

MARLBOROUGH – It took less than two minutes for 22,000 eggs to be collected.

On March 30, Marlborough’s Fraternal Order of Eagles held the annual egg hunt at Ward Park. The event, which drew eager children from across the city, has been held by the Eagles for well over three decades.

“It’s like locusts. You just watch the kids here and they go ‘whoop’ all the way across the field. We’ll see 22,000 eggs gone almost instantly,” event organizer and Eagles member Steve Kerrigan told the Community Advocate.

To get ready for the event, the Eagles spent several hours on March 28 stuffing the eggs with 50,000 pieces — roughly

Hudson Public Schools spots potential solution for bus storage facility

By Sarah Freedman Contributing Writer

HUDSON – Superintendent Brian Reagan said on March 26 that Hudson Public Schools is closing in on a solution for its bus storage problem.

At the School Committee meeting, Reagan said they have been in talks with National Development — the current owner of the former Intel property at 75 Reed Road — to potentially store the buses on the site.

“It’s not finalized yet, but Len Belli, director of facilities, has been working really closely with National Development. And, we hopefully in the next couple of weeks will have a contract secured with them,” said Reagan.

If secured, a contract would allow the

Hudson Public Schools to store its buses in an empty parking lot. And, while it is not “a longterm solution,” said Reagan, it could buy the district some time to find a permanent one. He said activities would still be going on at the former Intel property, but the entire acreage of the property would not be needed to conduct these operations.

At the Feb. 21 meeting of the Economic Development Commission, Katie Snyder, who is the senior vice president of the development team at National Development, noted that Intel is leasing the property from National Development and could be there for up to 18 months.

“We’ve identified a portion of the site,” said Reagan.

Greg Opp honored for 40 years of service

kids race through Ward Park to collect eggs. (Photo/Evan Walsh)

An edition of the Community Advocate

Trail work delays opening of Lake Williams boardwalk

Contested race shaping up for Select Board

Community Snapshot

Westborough Cultural Council honors grant recipients

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – For state

Rep. Hannah Kane, the annual grant reception for award recipients by the Westborough Cultural Council is a sure sign of spring.

On March 27 in Town Hall, Kane and fellow state Rep. Kate Donaghue helped distribute certificates and State House citations to nearly two dozen recipients. The council, an agency of the Massachusetts Cultural Council, distributed more than $20,000 in grants for 2023-24.

Ryan Maloney, owner

Organic Whiskey Making

Programs funded include the summer concert series, sponsored by the Recreation Department; a program on owls sponsored by the Westborough Land Conservation Trust; a “Sunshine Café/Respite” program by the senior center; and a spring performance by the Westborough Community Chorus on May 4 and 5 at Gibbons Middle School.

Save the date — the cultural council’s annual Arts in Common will take place on Oct. 5.

For information about the Westborough Cultural Council, visit www.westboroughculturalcouncil.org.

Organic whiskey-making is committed to purity and sustainability throughout the production process. It begins with carefully selecting organic grains, typically barley or corn, cultivated without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. These grains are then mashed and fermented using natural yeast strains, allowing for a slower, more nuanced fermentation process that enhances flavor complexity. Next comes distillation, where the fermented mash is carefully heated to separate alcohol from water, resulting in a raw spirit that is then aged in charred oak barrels. The whiskey absorbs flavors from the wood during aging, developing rich caramel and vanilla notes while mellowing out its harsh edges. Throughout this journey, organic whiskey makers prioritize eco-friendly practices, such as energy-efficient distillation methods and water conservation efforts.

Producers of all sizes are exploring ways to make every stage of their production process more sustainable. Hence, the way to produce organic whiskeys is of concern for them. Distilling organic spirits is significantly more difficult than making spirits using conventionally grown crops and genetically modified yeasts and enzymes. Nevertheless, the trade-off seems to be worth it. For more information, please call JULIO’S LIQUORS at 508-3661942 or visit us at 140 Turnpike Rd., Rt. 9 East

HINT: Organic whiskey making is not just about crafting a superior spirit; it’s a celebration of nature’s bounty and a commitment to sustainable craftsmanship.

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

Live show every Saturday, 11 am on WCRN AM830

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DON’T MISS OUR AD ON PAGE X

(Photo/Tami White) State Rep. Kate Donaghue, left, and Maureen Johnson, treasurer for the Westborough Cultural Council, sort out citations and certificates for the nearly two dozen grant recipients. (Photo/Maureen Sullivan)

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

March 2024 Westborough Town Meeting

My wife and I have been Westborough residents since 1991. We attended the March 23rd Town Meeting with great interest in the non-binding petitions (Articles 33-46). These included removal of LGBTQ+ iconography from the schools, ending Westborough School’s Anti-Racism Initiatives, etc. Many targeted the school system.

One reason we originally settled in Westborough was the excellent public school system, which the School Committee and successive superintendents have maintained, nurtured, and improved upon. Our children graduated from the Westborough public school system with high-quality educations that prepared them well for college and work. More importantly, they grew into solid citizens who accept people of all orientations, races, and cultures, and who settle their problems with their words. The Westborough public school system gets much of the credit for that, and I am grateful for it. Building successful systems, organizations, and institutions is far more difficult and time-consuming than breaking or destroying them. For that reason, I would be personally reluctant to propose or approve any major changes to the school system or other town functions and properties without first identifying the problems to be solved; understanding the requirements and rationale that drive current systems, plans, and policies; analyzing alternative solutions; and objectively assessing the impacts of the proposed changes. This practice served me well in my work career.

1. How did you make the decision to move into the Willows?

There came a time when we decided we had taken care of a home for too long. We had a large house but we needed to downsize We wanted to have an easier life. It was also important for us to have convenient access to our existing network of medical providers, friends and family.

2. Are you still able to maintain your favorite activities?

Yes, I am an ordained Rabbi and I still go online every Monday with my group to study Rabbinic text. I have been doing that for 30 years.

3. What offerings keep you busy at the Willows?

I read... we have a wonderful book club. The fitness facilities are fantastic as well. I visit with friends here and family outside the facility - our days are full!

4. What gives you peace of mind?

We are so glad that the management has an empathetic approach... they care. When we have a problem, they respond to it. As we age we know we will have additional needs. It’s great to know that someone is here looking out for us as our needs evolve.

5. What is a key lesson you learned by living at the Willows?

When we were considering moving to a retirement community, all of our friends told us not to wait too long. They urged us to take advantage of an active facility while we were still young enough to take advantage of all the activities - and I can tell you we have found this to be very true.

Your best life starts here.

Because here, you’re family.

I left the Town Meeting feeling grateful for the many elected and appointed members of our town government — both current and former — who attended and spoke. Town Moderator John Arnold did an excellent job giving advocates and opponents of the nonbinding petitions a fair chance to argue their positions in a civil manner. During presentations and debate, town leaders demonstrated that they take their jobs seriously, are informed by facts, follow the law, know their responsibilities, and care about the welfare of Westborough and its residents. The overwhelming majority of Town Meeting members rejected the non-binding petitions, with one article accepted after amendment. This was a fine example of democracy in action.

Keith Melvin Westborough

To the Editor:

In order to have honest and legal elections Massachusetts must have their voter registration lists up-to-date and without any non-US citizens on the lists.

Massachusetts belongs to ERIC (Electronic Registration Information Center). ERIC is a dangerous threat to fair and honest elections. It operates under the guise of sharing election data among participating states in order to help ensure the accuracy of voter rolIs. It really undermines the principle that only U.S. citizens should vote in our elections.

ERIC is not required to pass along information it may require about voters who are non-US citizens back to member states so they can be removed from the voter rolls as ineligible. ERIC’s mission statement to help states share data in order to maintain accurate voter rolls seems to be straightforward but state agreements with ERIC require neither the flagging of non-US citizens on the voter rolls by ERIC nor does it require states to remove ineligible voters.

ERIC creates the illusion of helping to clean and manager voter rolls for states. But, its agreements with the states do not address two threats to honest elections: participation of non-US citizens in our elections and clean up-to-date voter rolls.

State have been severing their member agreements with ERIC but Massachusetts has yet to do so. Along with membership is financial support for the organization.

Let’s personally make sure each town in Massachusetts has upto-date voter rolls without any non-US citizens on the lists. Let’s protect the honesty of our elections and let whoever wins does so fairly and honestly.

Carole A. David Northborough

Green Hudson founding member Greg Opp honored for 40 years

HUDSON – “Green Hudson” conservation group honored Hudson resident Gregory L. “Greg” Opp for over 40 years of community service at its annual meeting.

Because he was unable to attend the meeting, Brian White and other G.H. directors, presented the award to Opp at The Artisan, where he now resides. As a “vocal advocate,” Opp worked with the Hudson Recreation Dept. to improve the run-off and beach erosion at Centennial Beach. He served on the town Conservation Commission for ten years, and was a founding member of Recycling Volunteers, Green Hudson and the Hudson Land Trust.

David Opp, one of three sons of Greg and his wife, Nancy, said: “We spent quite a bit of time at the Hudson transfer station, and our Dad has always been about doing the right thing.”

White said, “Greg’s contributions to the health and sustainability of the commu-

community for over 40 years.”

nity have been an inspiration to all of us.”

Surprise Awards

Hudson resident Anne LaMarche was recently installed as exalted ruler of Hudson Lodge of Elks, succeeding Jim Kelley. In surprise announcements, Shelley Francolini was honored as Citizen of the Year, John LaMarche as Elk of the Year and Janice Pack as Officer of the Year. Others installed as officers were: Jim Kelley, Candice McDonald, Cheryl Fraser, Bill Hopkins, Mike King, Joanna Kelley, Andrew Cabral and Lisa Gould.

Shelby celebrates 17th birthday

Jacob Shelby, son of Hudson native Judy (Barry) Shelby and her husband, Shane Shelby of Upton, celebrated his 17th birthday on March 20, and attended a Boston Bruins hockey game. Jacob was happy to meet Duke Castiglione, Channel 5 TV sports broadcaster. Jacob’s father, Shane, skated with the

Hudson “Old Timers” and has been coaching his son since his early years. Jacob is a strong forward on the Blackstone Valley Regional Technical High School team that beat Hudson High to become Central Mass. champs.

New owners of Sereni salon

Hudson resident Paula (Guidotti) Filippi announces the sale of her Sereni Salon & Spa, 8 Market St., to Fran and Dawn Carlo.

Paula opened Sereni Salon in 2003, after working at Boston salons since 1985. She started with four employees, after doing a massive renovation of the historic brick building.

Paula commended her longtime managers, Tammy and Pat, and said: “I am deeply grateful for 21 years of Sereni Spa ownership in beautiful downtown Hudson.”

She continued: “New owners Fran and Dawn have ‘hit the ground running,’ so please

join me in welcoming them and wishing them great success.”

Eclipse party

Staff of Hudson Public Library invites the public to an outdoor Solar Eclipse Party at adjacent Liberty Park Monday,

April 8 from 1-4 p.m. All are invited to come for crafts and cookie decorating, sponsored by Harvest Sweet Boutique Bakery; shifting shadow chalk art, pinhole camera craft, glow in the dark tattoos, buttonmaking etc., for teens and

Hudson resident Gregory L. “Greg” Opp, founding member of “Green Hudson” was recognized for his long record of community service at the annual meeting of “Green Hudson.” “Greg” was honored as a “vocal advocate for Hudson’s

Jacob Shelby, left, chatted with Channel 5 sports broadcaster Duke Castiglione, at a Boston Bruins hockey game, celebrating Jacob’s 17th birthday on March 20. Jacob is the son of Hudson native Judy (Barry) Shelby and Shane Shelby of Upton. (Photos/Courtesy)

Rimkus | 8

Trail work delays opening of Lake Williams boardwalk

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – Those wishing to try out the new boardwalk at Lake Williams will have to wait a bit longer.

According to a statement from Conservation Officer Priscilla Ryder, “The Lake Williams boardwalk will be open sometime later this spring; no firm date yet. Our contractors and volunteers are still working on finishing the trail portions on the land to connect to the floating trail, which will take another month or so.”

Marlborough leaders celebrated the completion of the boardwalk in December. The boardwalk project — about $1.7 million — was financed with funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

The lake itself is part of the city’s Water Supply Protection District.

spring.

While trail work continues, first responders will soon begin hands-on training in case something happens on or around the boardwalk.

According to Marlborough Fire Department’s Jeff Emanuelson, “There are multiple access points along the boardwalk. The two remote

entrances that will be open to the public, and an emergency midway access point near the pumphouse along Lakeside Avenue will give us direct access to the boardwalk. We will be able to launch our rescue boat from the Lizotte Drive access point and from the pump house access should the need arise.

“We have also discussed the installation of rescue ring buoys at key points in the event someone should enter the water and need assistance.”

The mayor’s office had previously estimated that the opening would be sometime in April.

The boardwalk at Lake Williams, installed last fall, is slated to open sometime this

(Photo/Evan Walsh)

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

HUDSON – A possible race for Select Board is shaping up for the annual Town Election on May 13.

Three candidates are currently on the ballot for two seats on the Select Board. One of the seats has been vacant following the resignation of Shawn Sadowski in July. The other candidate whose seat was up for election — Michael Burks Sr. — will not be on the ballot, according to the proposed ballot provided by the Town Clerk’s office.

As of the filing deadline date of Monday, March 25, the following candidates will appear on the ballot. The last day to withdraw from the ballot is Wednesday, April 10. Select Board – three years –vote for not more than two

Diane Gertrude Bemis

Steven Charles Sharek

Brian R. White

Moderator – one year – vote for one

Richard T. Harrity – candidate for re-election School Committee – three years – vote for not more than three

Christopher Paul Yates –candidate for re-election Trustee of Susan Cox, Joseph S. Bradley, J.J. Angell, Sarah A. Brown, George E.D. and Abigail E. Wilkins, Addie E. Cahill, Helen M. Lewis, Mary E. Tacey, Maude A. Whitney and Clara E. Houghton Funds, Martin Joseph Moran III – Three Years – Vote for one

Anthony Louis Buscemi Housing Authority - five years – vote for one No candidates took out papers

Municipal Light Board –three years – vote for one

Thomas Charles Green Park Commission – three years – vote for one No candidates took out papers

Board of Health – three years – vote for one

Matthew C. Gallen Library Trustee – three years

– vote for one

Christopher Capobianco –candidate for re-election

Patricia Ann MacMunn Planning Board – three years – vote for not more than two

Robert L. D’amelio – candidate for re-election

Rodney G. Frias – candidate for re-election Planning Board – one year (to fill a vacancy) – vote for one

Joseph Paul Mitchell Cemetery Commission –three years – vote for one

Thomas Edward Garrity–candidate for re-election Constable – three years – vote for one

Michael D. Schreiner – candidate for re-election Constable – two years (to fill a vacancy) – vote for one No candidates took out

papers Board of Assessors – three years – vote for one

Joanne Frances McIntyre –candidate for re-election

A candidates night has been scheduled for Wednesday, May 1, at 7 p.m. at the senior center.

On Election Day, polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Mastersingers announce ‘Bling for the Sing’ online auction

MARLBOROUGH – The Assabet Valley Mastersingers group have announced the “2024 Bling for the Sing,” an online auction benefit that opens April 18 and runs through May 3.

For an auction preview beginning April 15, register online at www.avmsingers.org/ support-us/bling-for-the-sing.

Auction items are available for bidding — artwork, events, musical instruments, handcrafted items, the opportunity

to conduct an opera chorus with the group, homemade cookies delivered to your door, restaurant gift cards and more.

AVM celebrates the many sponsors who have indicated their support of the local performing arts like the Avidia Charitable Foundation, Bae and Bae Family Dentistry, GPS Financial Services and Middlesex Savings Bank.

Money raised at this event enables AVM to continue to provide high quality choral

music performances utilizing our vocalists, orchestra and professional soloists. All proceeds from this benefit event will support the operating expenses of the Assabet Valley Mastersingers, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) arts organization.

For more information, www.avmsingers.org/support-us/bling-for-the-sing or contact Debra Wallace or Kirsten Joyner, “Bling for the Sing” co-chairs, at auction@ avmsingers.org.

adults. Eclipse glasses will be distributed. Register at huds. pl/events.

Local artist exhibits

Hudson resident Linda DeStefano Brown has three pieces in “Visions,” the latest member show at Plymouth Center for the Arts now through April 28. The Center is located at 11 North St., Plymouth and is open Wednesday through Sunday. To view the exhibit go to https://www. smugmug.com/gallery/n-dhkHmw

Hunger Walk

Erstwhile Hudson walker Mary Walling will be walking in the 56th annual Walk for Hunger on Sunday, May 5, (which is the 51st wedding anniversary of Mary and her husband, Mike Walling.)

Mary notes that the number of people in Massachusetts who are food insecure has been rising. A check payable to Project Bread/Walk for Hunger may be mailed to her at 99 Fort Meadow Drive, or to Project Bread, 145 Border St., East Boston, MA 02128, with her name on the menu line.

Class of ‘74 marks 50th

Hudson High School Class of 1974 will mark its 50th reunion Saturday, April 27 at Embassy Suites, Marlborough, 5-10 p.m. Tickets are $66 per person. Contact class president Patty (Patterson) McInnes, 22 Florence St. Hudson MA 01749 or 978-562-2682.

Ribbon cutting Assabet Valley Chamber of Commerce will sponsor ribbon cutting and grand opening at Luxan Realty, 21 Church St., Friday, April 12 from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m.

HAPPY MILESTONE BIRTHDAY

April 17 to Deirdre Millman.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

April 6 – Chuck Appel, Tony Frias, Nick Maglione, Judy Mitchell and Reese O’Connor

April 7 – Timothy Gay and Jennifer Roach

April 8 – Matt Veseskis and Cole Parker

April 9 – Hannah Siktberg, Jack Devereaux and Mikayla Supernor

April 10 – Mary Wenzel of “Marlboro at a Glance” column, Sarah Sheldon, Andrew Childs, Andy Reardon and Erika Civitarese

April 11 – Erin Underwood, Sarah Coletti, Jonathan Shepard, Dick King and Tammy Davis

April 12 – Samantha Sousa, Larry Kent and Kristen Zagura

April 13 – Janice Wilkins and P.J. Bryant

April 14 – Susie King, Heather Turner, Don Mitchell and Nick Underwood

April 15 – Peggy Case, Carol Stacey, Mike Hinkley and Dom Palange

April 16 – Ashley Beals

April 17 – Bill McCarthy

April 18 – Peter Whitney, Cathy Laursen and Sam Reardon

April 19 – Ed Bruso, Emily White and Noah Miller

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

April 6 – Michael and Deirdre Millman, Tony and Sue Coito

April 13 – Paul and Rosemary Huehmer

April 16 – Rich and MaryLee King

April 19 – John and Bonnie DeRusha, George and Annabelle Anastas

LOOKING BACK TO 1973

Robert Parker assumed duties as production manager at Abbey Plastics, Main Street. President Arthur Kunst and sales mgr. Gerald Kunst observed 35th anniversary of J & K Tire Co., 118 Main St. Village Real Estate listed a Hudson two-family house on corner lot for low $30,000s. Earle Boyle was coach of the Hudson Pee Wee hockey team. Richard Beauregard and George McGee were re-elected to the Hudson Board of Selectmen. Paul LaFleur and Rosemarie Brophy were elected to the Hudson Housing Authority. Subscriptions to weekly Hudson News Enterprise were $5 a year. William Jagling was teaching a Red Cross First Aid program. Hudson Catholic and Protestant parishioners participated in sponsoring and attending “The Passion,” presented at St. Michael Church.

Please send items for Hudson Happ’nings to 18Cottage St., Hudson MA 01749 or email rrimkus18@comcast.net.

Hudson resident Shelley Francolini, in center, was announced as “Citizen of the Year,” at recent installation of officers of Hudson Lodge of Elks. Anne LaMarche, at right, was installed as Exalted Ruler, succeeding Jim Kelley, at left, Past Exalted Ruler. (Photo/Courtesy)

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

Aging Gracefully OSTEOPOROSIS

Osteoporosis is a condition found in many people over age 65, causing bones to become weak and brittle. Although it a ects men and women of all ages, older women are at a higher risk. Bone is living tissue that is constantly being broken down and replaced. Osteoporosis occurs when the replacement of new bone doesn’t keep up with the loss of old bone. While there are typically no symptoms in the early stages, once the bones have weakened, signs may appear, such as loss of height, a stooped posture, and a bone that breaks more easily than expected. Bone fractures in the spine or hip are the most severe complications. Good nutrition and exercise are essential for healthy bones. Many osteoporosis patients develop a fear of falling as the disease progresses, as the risk of bone fractures increases due to lower bone density. is can lead to increasing insecurity in daily life and one’s daily routine changes counterproductively to inactivity, fear, and caution. What the body needs to counteract osteoporosis is regular healthy exercise to strengthen the bones. To learn more about our long-term care center, please call NOTRE DAME LONG TERM CARE CENTER at (508) 852-3011. We are located at 559 Plantation Street. P.S. Osteoporosis can occur in people who have a low calcium intake.

Seniors on the move

A Caring Community for Elders

Goddard House provides gracious senior living in our studio, one, and two bedroom apartments in a historic home in Worcester. Residents of the Goddard House enjoy three chef prepared meals daily in our restaurant style dining room, trips to Mechanic Hall, restaurants, museums, and other locations, availability of sta 24hours, and

emergency call system in each apartment.

Homestead Hall provides personal care, medication management, and social programs in a residential homelike environment. All rooms are private with private en-suite baths. Set on over an acre of land in a secluded, private, residential setting in the heart of Worcester.

Please contact Kathy Russo at 508-868-0967 for a private tour and information regarding options and pricing.

Goddard / Homestead

•

info@trustedlikefamilyhomecare.com

www.trustedlikefamilyhomecare.com

One of the many on-site services offered at New Horizons retirement community in Marlborough is our apothecary.

Our residents’ health and well-being is our top priority, so we make it as easy as possible to access everything they need just a few steps away. Residents may call the nearby pharmacy to fill their prescriptions and then conveniently pick them up at the on-site apothecary, making it simple for our residents to receive the medicines they need.

Schedule a visit today to discuss how New Horizons is right for you or your loved one. Immediate availability, including three home-cooked meals daily, starting at $2,400/month for one resident

The Walking Woman of Westborough walks on

By Wendi Comey

WESTBOROUGH – Traveling in one direction, it’s about 1,500 miles from Westborough to Key Largo, and if I walked in that one direction starting last Jan. 1, I’d be on the beach there now!

Two years ago, in October of 2021, I shared my story of walking 1,000 miles around Westborough. I completed that year with 1,340 miles. In 2022, I was not paying attention to my total, and missed 1,500 by about 30 miles. But in 2023 I was committed to reaching that lofty goal, and so, on Dec. 31, my 68th birthday, I crossed that finish line, covering 1,501.2 miles last year.

To give some perspective, even if I walked every single day last year, I would have had to average over 4 miles a day!

The biggest challenge with walking in New England is the seasons. Most people think that walking is a low-cost type

of exercise, but that’s sorely incorrect in a place with lots of weather changes. Sure, everyone knows you need a good

pair of sneakers, but that’s just the start.

Summer is easy — shorts and a t-shirt or tank top and

you’re ready to go. For early autumn and late spring, just add a sweatshirt, though differing weights are helpful. But, the real challenge is November through April, when lots of choices are essential. A simple variance of five degrees can require a total change in wardrobe, and wind can alter the feel of the temperature dramatically. For the colder months, my choices have multiplied considerably. Long sleeve t-shirts and some with threequarter length are basic. Capri leggings, full leggings, and fleece-lined leggings all have their purpose. Outerwear can range from heavy fleece up to bulky coats, and need to cover all lengths and varying thicknesses in between. Over

Not everyone I know is on board with multi-season walking, and on extreme weather days through the year I certainly heard comments about my decision to walk. Most people have no interest when it’s in the 20s, or less. And on a 95+ degree humid day this past July, a wonderful, lovely, older neighbor of mine, stopped her car near me on our street and shouted: “are you f…en kidding me?!” (She did actually use the full word.)

In 2023, I was out there every day but 13. Though I walk faster now, most things have not changed since 2021. When my husband, Greg, is not walking with me, he still keeps an eye on my track through the “Find my...” phone app. I still pop into the Boro Sugar Shack and Yummy Mummy for the occasional sweet, and Dunkin or Westborough Nutrition for liquid refreshment. My errands still include the Post Office, Stop & Shop, Roche Bros., and the library — anything within a 3-mile radius… as long as there are sidewalks. And I still walk to my nail and hair appointments, and my gym, “Get in Shape for Women.” I still have lots of “walk and talk” dates with friends. And I am still extremely grateful for our responsive DPW (thanks Derek!) who I bother from time to time with crosswalk, sidewalk and street issues. I always get a quick response and a helpful explanation or timeline.

Everyone knows that walking is an excellent exercise, but it’s also a great way to connect with neighbors and friends, meditate or think, or just enjoy the outdoors. So, as 2024 begins, I have no plans to stop, though some modification may happen. Oh, I’ll still be out as often as possible, pounding out as many miles as I can, and maintaining a good pace - but maybe, just maybe, I’ll skip an occasional single digit or triple digit day. Happy walking everyone!

Wendi Comey and her husband, Greg, have lived in Westborough since 1983. Wendi volunteers around town, and serves as the Treasurer for the Friends of the Westborough Public Library.

Wendi Comey celebrates after crossing the finish line.

Select Board establishes Sustainability Committee

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – The Select Board unanimously voted to establish a Sustainability Committee on March 12.

The committee — formed after several Select Board members met with the local environmental advocacy group Tipping Point 01545 — seeks to “extend the goals of the climate action and resiliency plan to include residents and businesses, and advance initiatives that focus on climate and environmental matters that impact public health, the built environment, vehicles, equipment, land use, solid waste, and natural resources,” according to a copy of the committee’s charge.

The charge states that the group will work to “help increase communication and engagement around Shrewsbury’s sustainability and resiliency goals to foster broad engagement in climate action and adaptation.”

The committee will help plan and publicize outreach events, host forums, provide information and educate the

Grafton Garden

Club plans annual cleanup day

GRAFTON – In celebration of Earth Day, teams of volunteers are being organized to clean up the trash along the streets, in neighborhoods, on the school playgrounds and in parks throughout Grafton.

Residents are invited to take part in this townwide effort, which is sponsored by the Grafton Garden Club.

Contact chairperson Helen Blazis at markblazissafaris@ gmail.com and let her know which area of town you would like to clean up. Bags can be picked up at the Department of Public Works.

Trash may be picked up anytime during the week of April 15-20. Then contact the DPW at 508-839-8525 and let it know where you have left your filled bags.

The Grafton DPW will provide free red oak and white dogwood saplings for Grafton residents to plant. The trees are available at the Common on April 20 from 9 a.m. until noon.

community.

“I support this, and I think it’s a nice bridge between the public and the municipal [operation]. I think we have many passionate and smart neighbors who would be more than willing to donate their time and their talents to further sustainability initiatives to their fellow residents,” Select Board Chair

Beth Casavant said.

The charge also said the committee will establish and update an environment-focused page on the town’s website and provide input on updates to the climate action and resiliency plan as needed by town staff. The new committee is scheduled to present before the Select Board annually.

The committee will be composed of an “intentionally diverse” group of seven members appointed by the Select Board, the charge said. Six of the members will serve staggered threeyear terms, while the seventh member will be an upperclassman from Shrewsbury High School serving a one-year term.

“I think that the committee

will be a good resource for folks at home who want to become more sustainable themselves,” Select Board member Carlos Garcia said. “I do appreciate there will be one member of the community that… will be a highschool-aged student. I think for young people… I know that climate action and sustainability is on the forefront of our minds.”

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4 Tips To Make Your Strongest Offer on a Home

Elaine Quigley, CBR, CRS, GRI Elaine.Quigley@commonmoves.com

Cell: (508) 735-5161 www.EQRE.com

Are you thinking about buying a home soon? If so, you should know today’s market is competitive in many areas because the number of homes for sale is still low – and that’s leading to multiple-offer scenarios. And moving into the peak homebuying season this spring, this is only expected to ramp up more.

Remember these four tips to make your best offer.

1. Partner with a Real Estate Agent

Rely on a real estate agent who can support your goals. As PODS notes:

“Making an offer on a home without an agent is certainly possible, but having a pro by your side gives you a massive advantage in figuring out what to offer on a house.”

Agents are local market experts. They know what’s worked for other buyers in your area and what sellers may be looking for. That advice can be game changing when you’re deciding what offer to bring to the table.

2. Understand Your Budget

Knowing your numbers is even more important right now. The

best way to understand your budget is to work with a lender so you can get pre-approved for a home loan. Doing so helps you be more financially confident and shows sellers you’re serious. That gives you a competitive edge. As Investopedia says:

“. . . sellers have an advantage because of intense buyer demand and a limited number of homes for sale; they may be less likely to consider offers without pre-approval letters.”

3. Make a Strong, but Fair Offer

It’s only natural to want the best deal you can get on a home, especially when affordability is tight. However, submitting an offer that’s too low does have some risks. You don’t want to make an offer that’ll be tossed out as soon as it’s received just to see if it sticks. As Realtor.com explains:

“. . . an offer price that’s significantly lower than the listing price, is often rejected by sellers who feel insulted . . . Most listing agents try to get their sellers to at least enter negotiations with buyers, to counteroffer with a number a little closer to the list price. However, if a seller is offended by a buyer or isn’t taking the buyer seriously, there’s not much you, or the real estate agent, can do.”

The expertise your agent brings to this part of the process will help you stay competitive and find a price that’s fair to you and the seller.

4. Trust Your Agent During Negotiations

After you submit your offer, the seller may decide to counter it. When negotiating, it’s smart to understand what matters to the seller. Once you do, being as flexible as you can on things like moving dates or the condition of the house can make your offer more attractive.

Your real estate agent is your partner in navigating these details. Trust them to lead you through negotiations and help you figure out the best plan. As an article from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) explains:

“There are many factors up for discussion in any real estate transaction—from price to repairs to possession date. A real estate professional who’s representing you will look at the transaction from your perspective, helping you negotiate a purchase agreement that meets your needs . . .”

Bottom Line

In today’s competitive market, let’s work together to find you a home you love and craft a strong offer that stands out.

A

Jimmy Fund Walk honors retired Northborough Police Chief Mark Leahy

GRAFTON – Grafton resident Mark Leahy was recognized as Alumni Team Captain of the Year for his efforts in the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk presented by Hyundai. His team, Team Police Chiefs, was also honored as being a top corporate team.

Leahy was among those awardees recognized for their fundraising and commitment in the 35th Jimmy Fund Walk event, held this past October.

2023 was a record-breaking year for the Jimmy Fund Walk, as the fundraising has officially surpassed $9.4 million.

More than 8,400 walkers and 700 volunteers came together for the event. Among them was Leahy, a retired Northborough police chief and executive director of Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association. He has walked for 20 years and has personally raised more than $31,000 through the walk. He was recently diagnosed with prostate cancer and is being treated at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

“He adores the staff, facility, mission, and meeting the children and families the team walks for,” Leahy’s daughter writes. “Never in a million

Shrewsbury Garden Club accepting scholarship applications

SHREWSBURY – The Shrewsbury Garden Club is accepting scholarship applications for members of the Class of 2024.

The scholarships will be awarded to high school seniors that live in Shrewsbury and plan to further their education in horticulture, landscape architecture, botany, environmental science or a related field at a two- or fouryear college.

Visit http://shrewsburygardenclub.org/ to apply and return the application to Mrs. Sue DiLeo c/o the Shrewsbury Garden Club, 42 Wachusett Ave., Shrewsbury, MA 01545.

The deadline is April 12.

Grafton’s Mark Leahy, retired chief for the Northborough Police Department, has been honored as Alumni Team Captain of the Year by the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund walk. (Courtesy Photo)

years did he imagine he’d also be going to Dana-Farber as a patient. He is so positive and confident in his treatment because of the amazing staff members at Dana-Farber that he has come to know over the years. He is my hero.”

Team Police Chiefs received the top corporate team award for the highest fundraising team with more than 50 members. The team had 177

members and raised $153,091.96. The team is composed of members of the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association, family members and friends.

The Jimmy Fund has been the official charity of Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association since 1953. The 2024 Jimmy Fund Walk will be held on Sunday, Oct. 6, in Boston.

Supporting an Active Lifestyle

New Horizons retirement community in Marlborough offers an extensive activities program, allowing residents to choose between physical activities, artistic projects, outdoor fun, and many other options.

Each program and activity is specifically designed to benefit the well-being of our residents. From cooking and baking events to poetry readings, live music and more, New Horizons encourages residents to continue to pursue and engage in their interests and hobbies.

Immediate availability, including three home-cooked meals daily, starting at $2,400/ month for one resident.

Egg

$6,000 worth — of candy. On the day of the event, an army of volunteers distributed the eggs evenly throughout the field, ensuring each one of the hundreds of basket-toting children could grab some of the brightly colored tokens of Easter.

Some of the green eggs — filled by Eagle Kevin Snook — included money. He’s done it every year for the last 25 years, and hopes that the children are surprised by the additional present in the egg.

“It’s for the kids. Charity. For the kids… It makes it more fun for the kids,” Snook said.

As if the eggs weren’t enough, the Easter Bunny made an appearance and Juniper Farms Ice Cream Truck donated hundreds of sweet treats for children to enjoy. The weather held up perfectly.

“We’ve been serving our community since 1974. That’s what we’re all about. The Fraternal Order of Eagles is all about raising money for charity. I joke that this is one of the worst days of my life [filling the eggs], but it’s a lot of fun. It’s nice at the end of the day, to see the kids running around and having fun,” said Kerrigan.

The 14 – passenger handicap-accessible shuttle connects local commuters and employees between the City of Marlborough and the Southborough MBTA Commuter Rail. The commuter route includes three round trips in the morning and in the evening to and from the business park at 200 Forest Street/ Campus Drive, Apex Center of New England, and downtown Marlborough. This option provides free public transportation for those who take the train to and/or from Boston & Worcester.

Marlborough Mayor J. Christian Dumais helps distribute eggs at the event. (Photos/Evan Walsh)

Children hunt eggs at Ward Park on March 30.

Hudson Public Schools spots potential solution for bus storage

Bus storage | from page 1 single most important piece of good news we’ve received in the last two months.”

The school district would work with Hudson Light and Power to bring power to that area of the property. Reagan did not have anything official in regards to the price of the storage use, but he believed it was “extremely favorable” for the schools.

Once the district has a firm deal with National Development, he said, it would look at what insurance certificates would be needed.

Reagan said, “They’ve been really responsive and really kind to our needs and that partnership.”

The best part of the potential short-term solution is that it would likely give the district 18 months to two years to decide what a long-term solution “might look like,” according to Reagan. He said, “We wouldn’t feel rushed.”

School Committee member Steven Sharek said, “It’s very, very good news.”

Sharek said it was “the

Save the date for Marlborough Family Fun Festival

MARLBOROUGH – The Marlborough Family Fun Festival will take place on Sunday, May 5, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Ward Park.

There will be games, activities, food trucks, entertainment, artisans and vendors, raffles and more.

The festival will be held rain or shine. Admission is free.

For information, email familyfunfestivalmarlboro@ gmail.com.

Other news

Also, March 26, Reagan said that they will have a budget book by April 9 for the 2025 fiscal year budget and vote on the overall details of the budget.

He outlined the changes in the budget and the fact that $400,000 was cut by a reduction in staffing. Whenever these adjustments are made, he said, it requires a lot of work as each position comes with a salary number and must “line up right.”

As there will be an April 10 meeting with the Finance Committee, he said, “The goal is to have the book in folks’ hands the week of April 1, which will be in advance of your vote on the 9th.”

Reagan noted the idea was to reduce and shift staffing according to the trend of declining general enrollment and an increasing high needs student population. He said that

just because there are fewer students enrolled overall did not mean that staff was not needed for English language learners and special education students.

“This is going to be our work annually for the next several years and watch where we have the ability to make

deductions,” said Reagan.

At the high school, two fulltime positions of one Spanish teacher and one science teacher were reduced based on the enrollment numbers.

In addition, there was a 0.4 reduction for a performing arts teacher.

The science teacher posi -

tion would be filled by a longterm substitute. The positive news was that no program or course would be not run because of the reductions, he said.

Reagan said, “That’s why we need to approach this with a scalpel to make sure that we’re being very careful.”

Alta Behavioral wants to open facility in Marlborough

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – A proposal to bring a substance abuse treatment facility to 400 Donald Lynch Blvd. is making its way through the city’s application process.

Alta Behavioral Health LLC, based in Concord, wants to locate the facility within a limited industrial zone; a substance abuse treatment program is allowed within that zone by special permit. There are limita-

tions on locating such facilities, so Alta Behavioral wants relief from these limitations.

City Councilor Kathleen Robey said that because the proposed facility is within 1,000 feet of a school, relief cannot be given pending a consultation with the city’s Legal Department.

According to its application, the facility — a day program for those recovering from substance abuse — would have up to 10 staff members and 25 patients. The facility would be away from

any residential neighborhoods.

“I think we’ve satisfied the guidelines for the special permit,” said Andrew J. Tine, special counsel for Alta Behavioral.

Tine noted that the city has no facility for detox or maintenance. Residents seeking treatment must travel to Framingham, Westborough or Worcester.

“You’re in a perfect location,” said City Councilor Mark Oram.

On March 25, the City Council sent the request along to its Urban Affairs Committee.

Your Money, Your Independence

Ready Homebuyers? Things Are About To Change.

It’s been a perfect storm the last 3+ years against first and second-time homebuyers.

But a change is coming, starting with anticipation of mortgage rates falling from 7%.

Glenn Brown, CFP

Morningstar, echoing other analysts, in March shared current Fed Funds rate of 5.25-5.50% will be 4.00 to 4.25% at end of 2024. Furthermore, expect the Fed to continue to “cut through end of 2025, ultimately bringing the federal funds rate down by over 300 points”.

Talk to realtors and lenders, they’re seeing activity pick up.

Why?

Wait until mortgage rates fall to 5%, then homes in certain price points will have inversely increased in value. Whereas, if one can purchase now with expectation to lower ongoing expenses via refinancing later, you’ve capped initial co2006sts and participated in appreciation.

Thus, first time buyers and those looking to move up, it’s time to plan.

This means prioritizing your needs, wants, locations and budget for after you’ve moved into your new home. This last one is critical as lenders base your pre-approval on this moment in time, not the fact you plan to do X a year from now which requires more money in your budget.

Due diligence should also include:

Zillow, RedFin, Realtor - Scroll beyond pictures and into details of when built, sqft, interior features, acreage, adjacent home values and price/ tax history. With price history, see when last sold, amount, then account for pictures or better yet when you visit, to see what’s been done since to determine value.

Tax Assessments and Property Taxes - Regardless of a realtor views on tax assessments relative to asking price, know a $890K listing with town tax assessment of $620K for $9,300 property taxes, will get reassessed the following year. If bought for $900K, town likely comes in at $820K (or higher) for $12,300 property taxes or $250 extra a month on your budget.

Financing Options - Explore beyond 30-year fixed rates. Understand directional interest rate

landscape and how long you expect to stay in your home. Does a 7-year adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) make sense if the plan is to move in 5-7 years or refinance as rates come down 50-75bps?

Mortgage and Cash Flow Calculations - The more variables, the better. Same with ability compare refinancing scenarios and contrast amortization tables. With clients, I’ll share calculator. net, use links to save scenarios and then run these inside eMoney cash flow analysis. Together, we see impact on their future budget, cash flow 1-3 years out as well as long-term impact.

For example, say one refinanced $600K in Sept 2020 at 2.75% on 30-year for $2,449 a month.

In April 2024, decides to move with current mortgage balance ~$550K, using equity and additional savings, to add $150K to a new $700K mortgage at 7%. New monthly payment is $4,657, or $2,208 more. In 5 years (April 2029), outstanding balance is ~$658K without refinancing.

Conversely, if able to pay $4,657 a month, decide to stay put with Sept 2020 mortgage and make $2,208 additional payments starting April 2024, the balance is $322K by 2029. Beyond the $336K spread after 5 years to move and borrow $150K, the Sept 2020 is now paid off in August 2035 and not 2050.

But wait, there’s more to consider.

What if the 7% mortgage is refinanced down to 5% by April 2026? New monthly is $3,634, or $1,023 less. Add this as extra payment starting 2026, what do you have?

Understand money is a tool, not the only consideration.

There is great value in doing what’s best for your family, educational or work opportunities and/or your personal choice of belonging to a community.

You should know this value going into a decision, not after it.

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

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

Youth Villages helps families at risk

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – A new winter coat.

For most families, it’s a nice way to stay warm.

For families facing financial and emotional distress, it’s a tangible reminder that somebody cares.

Recently, Patrick Subaru donated 360 coats to Youth Villages, a nonprofit organization that helps children at risk stay with their families instead of being placed in foster homes, detention centers or other facilities.

Half of these coats went to the Youth Villages offices in Marlborough; most of these have been distributed.

Julia Scarpellino, regional manager for Youth Villages, spoke about a mother whose daughter received a coat.

“A weight lifted off her shoulders,” she said.

That’s because the mother faced a hard decision — buying a new winter coat for her child or paying bills.

There were also three sisters who have issues with physical aggression. Each sister received a new coat, and there was peace.

“We celebrate the small wins,” she said.

Scarpellino has been working at Youth Villages for eight years; she works out of Marlborough, which serves most of Massachusetts, from Springfield to Boston.

Clients are sent to Youth Villages based on what Scarpellino called “referral behaviors,” such as self-harm, truancy or attempted suicide. They come on referrals mostly from state agencies, including the Department of Mental Health, the Department of Children and Families and (sometimes) Department of Youth Services.

According to Scarpellino, most of the organization’s funding comes from these agencies.

Main programs

The organization’s two main programs are Intercept, for children 0-18; and LifeSet, for young adults age 17 to 22.

Intercept offers intensive

in-home services, including therapy; it focuses on the full family unit with a goal toward stabilization and unification of the family.

LifeSet is an independent living program that helps young adults transition from foster care. They receive assistance with employment, housing and more. LifeSet specialists maintain regular contact with their young clients as they build healthy relationships, obtain safe housing, find employment and more.

There’s also the emergency diversion program, which was “born out of COVID” in 2021, according to Lauren Guess, senior regional communications manager for Youth Villages.

“The kids were being sent to hospitals, but not getting treatment,” she said.

Under this program, children receive services at home, instead of waiting for treatment in hospitals or other facilities.

“Kids are best treated at home,” she said.

Like other programs, Youth Villages has seen a rising demand in services as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We were never out of the field,” said Scapellino. “We have a ‘face first’ approach that sets us apart.”

In addition, she said the organization does a “really good job of getting specialists.”

“We rarely say no to a referral,” she said.

Special programs

Youth Villages stages several programs through the year to help client families with essentials.

Its Backpack Heroes program provides back-to-school items for clients, while Holiday Heroes helps provide gifts.

In addition, Youth Villages also distributes hygiene bags and birthday bags.

On Thursday, May 2, Youth Villages will present its annual fundraising gala, “Red Kite Nite,” at the Fairmount Copley in Boston. Last year, the gala raised $1 million for the LifeSet program.

For more information about Youth Villages, visit https:// youthvillages.org/about-us/ locations/massachusetts/.

508.366.5500

Whitney Place at Northborough celebrates 20 years

By Evan Walsh Reporter

NORTHBOROUGH – Whitney Place at Northborough – a SALMON Health and Retirement community – is celebrating 20 years of high-quality senior living and health care.

Employees, staff and SALMON executives gathered at Whitney Place on March 27 to commemorate the anniversary, reflect on the last two decades and honor staff members. The building, located at 238 W. Main St., was built in 2004 and delivers “the right balance of freedom and senior care with on-site services, premium amenities and exceptional programming,” according to SALMON’s website.

“It’s amazing,” said Executive Director Scott Bullock, who also manages the adjacent Beaumont Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Center. “What sets us apart is our staff and the relationships they have with residents and other staff members.”

Throughout the celebration, speakers were quick to mention that the staff truly makes Whit-

ney Place special. According to Bullock, 65% of Whitney Place staff members have worked at the company for over 10 years.

“It makes a world of a difference. Families feel comfortable; families feel good having their loved ones being cared for by somebody who has been here for that long… I think it is important to give back to our staff, to recognize our staff — especially the people that have been here from the beginning. I’m very proud,” Bullock said.

Five employees – Mary Benson, Patience Ntim-Gyakari,

Wilhelmina Quist, Debbie DeZutter, and Charlotte Mensah — were honored at the event for working at Whitney Place for 20 years. The honorees received a plaque for their two decades of dedication and service.

Outside of the event doors, Whitney Place displayed notes of gratitude left by residents and loved ones.

“I’m not sure where to begin to thank you for all you did for our family over the last 6.5 years,” one note read. “Your true caring made all the difference.”

Central One recognized by Warren Group

SHREWSBURY – Central One Federal Credit Union was recognized by The Warren Group as a Top Credit Union Lender In Massachusetts based on its 2023 activity.

Zeta Fencing to hold open house

ASHLAND – Zeta Fencing will be hosting an open house on April 15 between 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Zeta Fencing offers a variety of sabre fencing programs for at beginner and advanced levels, children and adults. The club has produced Olympians and world champions.

A lifetime sport suitable for children, men and women, fencing develops quick think-

ing, poise, agility, speed, selfconfidence and sportsmanship.

Zeta Fencing is located directly on the Boston Marathon route at 200 Homer Ave. The club invites marathon spectators to visit their facility, learn about their programs and try their hand at saber fencing.

For more information, visit https://zetafencing.net/ or call 508-655-6480.

Grant will help adult disabilities program run rehab center

Seven years ago, a motorcycle accident left Heather unable to speak, walk or care for herself.

Thanks to the MAB’s Training and Rehabilitation Center in Westborough, she can now walk, speak and eat solid food.

Each year, Banker & Tradesman publishes data collected by The Warren Group that outlines the top 10 lenders in Massachusetts in multiple categories. This includes single-family, multi-family, commercial, residential refi and condominium loans in both loan dollars and volume.

Central One ranked as the no. 4 credit union for volume of non-purchase residential loans, no. 10 tied credit union for number of commercial purchase loans and no. 10 tied credit union for number of multi-family purchase loans.

In a press release, Central One stated: “We are extremely proud of our lending team and their ability to help members of the community find the best mortgage or HELOC for their specific needs. If you are looking to refinance or purchase a new home, visit our website to learn more about our affordable options, especially for First Time Home Buyers.”

WESTBOROUGH – There are day services designed for people with intellectual disabilities, but few for people with brain injuries.

MAB Community Services (MAB), a statewide nonprofit organization and rehabilitation services provider, supports both populations in living full and satisfying lives.

MAB’s Adult Disability Services division created and recently opened a unique Training and Rehabilitation Center in Westborough to serve people with brain injuries. After enrolling its first 25 participants, MAB accepted a $50,000 grant from the Miller Innovation Fund, offered through the Herman and Frieda L. Miller Foundation. This grant partially funds the TRC’s operations while the program enrolls more participants. MAB anticipates the TRC achieving financial selfsufficiency with 100-125 participants. MAB’s TRC serves Mass Health-eligible participants from the commonwealth’s Ac-

quired Brain Injury (ABI) and Moving Forward Plan (MFP) waivers. Unlike other programs, MAB’s center offers an array of classes and services under one roof that support building independence, including physical, occupational and speech therapy; mental health services; employment services; social recreation activities; and educational training.

Participants sign up for three-hour time blocks of services during a 12-week cycle that meet their needs and interests.

“Nonprofit organizations rarely receive funding to innovate and experiment,” said Shaun Kinsella, director of new business operations for MAB’s Adult Disability Services division. “That’s why we’re particularly grateful for the Miller Innovation Fund award. MAB is committed to changing human services delivery systems in ways that help people with disabilities navigate challenging circumstances and live full lives.”

Five Whitney Place employees were honored for 20 years of service. (Photo/Evan Walsh)

(Courtesy Photo)

COMMUNITY HISTORY

Thomas Blair’s photography legacy in Northborough

NORTHBOROUGH THEN NOW

By Zenya Molnar History Columnist

NORTHBOROUGH – Thomas Blair (1855-1919), inventor and entrepreneur, mainly in the photography industry, may have become a household name like Eastman Kodak if the course of history ran slightly differently. Blair, who emigrated to the United States from Nova Scotia in 1873, was at the forefront of inventing new cameras, photographic methods, and supplies along with George Eastman of the Eastman Dry Plate and Film Company, now more famously known as the Eastman Kodak Company.

In 1879, Blair invented the all-in-one camera, the Tourograph, which was a camera and darkroom combined to combat the difficulties of using a wet plate. The camera folded into a

box making it very convenient and portable, and it was built to contain a darkroom tent. At the time, wet plate pho -

East Main St. building to house artisans’ collective

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – A former bank on East Main Street will soon become a hub for local artists and vendors.

By the middle of April, nearly 20 vendors will set up the Boroughs Collective in the Keating Building.

LeDuc Antiques will be among several downtown businesses moving to the new first-floor space, which is 3,000 square feet.

“We were getting close to the end of the lease [at our present location],” said Anna Leduc. “We wanted to stay downtown, with more parking.”

She said the Keating Building has “three times the size” — a bit too big for just one vendor, but a much better fit when other small vendors are added.

“We’re sharing space … rent is one of the biggest expenses,” she said.

Hygge House Books, Décor,

Katy’s Creations and Antique Therapy will be some of the other crafters, artists and businesses setting up shop.

“The idea is to get under one roof unique product vendors,” said Leduc.

In addition to parking, the collective will be next to the BORO Sugar Shack, and it will have the farmers market nearby at Bay State Commons.

A soft opening is scheduled for mid-April.

For information, visit https://www.boroughscollective.com/.

tography required plenty of space and equipment as well as the need to work quickly to mix chemicals, coat the glass plate (which would become the negative) and then expose and process the plate. Blair’s invention greatly improved the experience since oftentimes photographers travelled in a wagon to carry equipment and supplies.

Blair lived in Connecticut, Boston, and England before moving operations to Northborough in 1896 with his company, the American Camera Company. He manufactured cameras in the former Hildreth button factory, which is

currently Stone’s Cycle Shop on the corner of Main Street and River Street. Blair’s cash register business, Whiting Manufacturing Company, operated in the same location a few years later. He patented his wooden cash register in 1901, which was much lighter than the conventional metal ones. Blair’s new register would have sold for $25 to 40 at the time, generally much less than the larger, metal registers.

In 1891, Blair also perfected the process for manufacturing flexible celluloid filmstrips, and his company was the main source for production of the Kinetoscope, a device invented

by Thomas Edison to view motion pictures.

In 1888, Blair published “The Amateur Guide To Photography,” to which Eastman and others contributed. An enthusiastic inventor and businessman, Blair interestingly was seldom photographed himself; very few photos of him exist.

Although Blair and Eastman were close rivals in the amateur photography market for many decades, competing over patents, the eventual fate of Blair’s camera companies was sealed in 1899 when Eastman bought out Blair and Blair’s companies became a division of the Eastman Kodak Company.

An active member of the community, Blair lived at three different locations in Northborough: 88 Ball Street, which no longer exists; 97 Main Street, original home of Captain Samuel Wood, leader of the Northborough Minutemen in the American Revolution; and 107 Brigham Street, a farmhouse which he built.

Blair is buried in the Howard Street Cemetery in Northborough. You can see his inventions at the Northborough Historical Society Museum where a cash register and two cameras are on display, one of which was manufactured in town by the American Camera Company. The other camera is an Eastman Kodak camera made in Rochester, New York with features adopted from Blair’s cameras. For information about the museum, visit https://northboroughhistoricalsociety.org/.

Live Life to the Fullest

Recognizing that retirement is a time to set new goals, learn new hobbies, and live life to the fullest, the Activities Program at New Horizons retirement community in Marlborough enhances the lives of our residents.

The program presents regular performances from pianists and dramatists, lectures and scholarly discussions, and painting and art classes. Stimulating trips to places such as local gardens, museums, and events are also arranged regularly.

Immediate availability, including three home-cooked meals daily, starting at $2,400/month for one resident.

One of Thomas Blair’s folding cameras. Photos/Courtesy of the Northborough Historical Society

One of Thomas Blair’s box cameras on display at the Northborough Historical Society.

A chat with other artists and vendors led Anna LeDuc to establish the Boroughs Collective. (Photo/Maureen Sullivan)

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

Alonzi, Donna of Marlborough

Bellerose, Irene of Westborough

Bissonnette, Frances of Hudson

Breen, Arthur of Westborough

Coyne, Elaine of Marlborough

Deschenes, Edward formerly of Hudson

DeWolfe, Barbara of Shrewsbury

Henderson, Nadine former Northborough Middle School principal

Houde Jr., Ernest of Marlborough

Ernest A. Houde Jr., 81

MARLBOROUGH - Ernest A.

Houde, Jr., 81, of Marlborough died Wednesday March 20, 2024 at Gulf Coast Medical Center in Fort Myers, Florida. He was the beloved husband of Patricia Houde. He was born in Marlborough, the son of the late Ernest A. and Jane F.

HAVING A ROLE TO FILL

Jose, William of Shrewsbury

Kiritsy, Mary of Shrewsbury

Lane, Sandra of Marlborough

Levine, Howard of Westborough

Lyseth, Barbara of Shrewsbury

Napolitano, Dean of Hudson

Skoog Sr., Michael of Hudson

Sousa, Clare of Marlborough

Ward, Catherine of Westborough

Winslow, Susan of Marlborough SUPER

(Lugin) Houde. He leaves three daughters, Janice Pacific and her husband Henry of Berlin, Sheila Casto and her husband Michael of Marlborough and Tracy Houde of Marlborough; five grandchildren, Travis Pacific of Berlin, Kaylyn Bartlett of Worcester, Hanna Lambracht of Boylston, Gabriella and Cooper Casto both of Marlborough.

The Collins Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.

Barbara A. Lyseth, 88

SHREWSBURY - Barbara A. (Mulholland Riguette) Lyseth, of Shrewsbury, died on Wednesday March 21, 2024 at St Mary Health Care Center in Worcester. She was 88 years old.

Barbara is predeceased by her husband Phil who died in 2016; with whom she shared 49 years of marriage. She was also predeceased by her mother Julia and her brother Arthur. She is survived by her five children: Kevin Lyseth of North Grafton, Karen Baker and her husband Jeffery of Worcester and their three daughters, Jacqueline Letourneau, Monica Hall and Renee Beaulieu, Kerry Cronin and her husband Steven of Worcester, Keith Lyseth of Northboro and his two daughters Margaret and Emma Lyseth, and Kimberly Dumais-Hutt and her husband Richard Hutt of Worcester and her two children Marc and Anastasia Dumais. As well as a sister Nancy Higgins of Conway AR. She is survived

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by four great-grandchildren, Austin, Jordan, Harper and Riley, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Miles Funeral Home of Holden assisted with arrangements.

Irene M. Bellerose, 91

WESTBOROUGH - Irene M. Bellerose, 91, of Westborough, passed away on Thursday, March 21, 2024, at the Marlborough Hospital. She was the wife of the late Dr. Gilbert A. Bellerose. Born in Lakewood, Ohio, she was the daughter of the late Richard and Jennie (Dzekowski) Marosek.

Irene is survived by three sons, Marc G. Bellerose and his wife, Hyacinth, of Hollis, NH, Gary G. Bellerose and his wife, Julie, of Holden and Brian G. Bellerose of Queens, NY, one brother, Gerald Robert Marosek of Fairfax, VA, one sister, Bernadine Rich of Ridgefield, CT and four grandchildren, Nathan Tyler Bellerose, Sophia Irene Bellerose, Colin Gilbert Bellerose, and Lily Carol Bel-

lerose.

The Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.

Donna B. Alonzi, 61

MARLBOROUGH - Donna B. (Schwendenman) Alonzi, 61, of Marlborough, passed peacefully at home surrounded by her family on March 22, 2024. She was the loving wife of Mark Alonzi and mother of Michael Alonzi of Lowell and Gabrielle Alonzi of Marlborough. She was predeceased by her mother, Barbara (Lynch) O’Brien.

In addition to her husband and children, Donna is survived by her brother, Daniel Schwendenman of Maryland, sister, Dale Stone of Hopedale, father, Kenneth Schwendenman of Florida, and mother-in-law, Patricia Alonzi of Waltham. She was a very special auntie to Amy and Kyle Schwendenman and Jenna and Grace Mandoni.

The Short & Rowe Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.

Answers on page 22

Frances M. Bissonnette, 93

HUDSON - Frances M. Bissonnette, 93, of Hudson, MA, passed on Wednesday, March 20, 2024. She leaves her beloved husband, Ronald R. Bissonnette, also of Hudson, and is predeceased by her first husband, Ilidio Silva.

Frances is survived by her sister Sheila Chase, wife of the late Peter Chase; her nieces and nephews; Ronald’s children, grandchildren, and greatgrandchildren; as well as other relatives and friends. She is predeceased by her parents Angelo and Justina.

Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted with arrangements.

Mary Kiritsy, 93

SHREWSBURY - Mary (Economou) Kiritsy, of Shrewsbury, MA, passed away peacefully on Tuesday March 19th, 2024 with her loving family by her side.

Mary is predeceased by the love of her life and best friend, Paul in 2016. Mary, leaves three sons and one daughter; Charles P. Kiritsy and his wife, Christine, of Paxton, Anna Kiritsy Tsitsilianos, of Worcester, William P. Kiritsy and his wife, Sylvia, of Holden, and Christopher P. Kiritsy and his wife, Molly, of Newton; 12 grandchildren, Paul Kiritsy and (Heather Soltis), Zachary Kiritsy, Dr. Michael Kiritsy and (Dr. Christina Kunycky), Dr. Andrew Tsitsilianos, Dr. Nicholas Tsitsilianos, Helena and (Ryan) Kazijian, Zoe Kiritsy and (Kevin Falcone), Joshua and (Grace) Kiritsy, and Alexander, Hannah, Benjamin and Elias Kiritsy, and one great grandchild James Charles Kiritsy. She also leaves a sister Stella (Economou) Christoforou, two nieces and their families in Greece. She is predeceased by her daughter, Helen Kiritsy, her son in-law Emmanuel Tsitsilianos and her brother Michael V. Economou.

The Miles Funeral Home of Holden assisted with arrangements.

Arthur I. Breen

WESTBOROUGH - Arthur I. Breen of Westborough and formerly of Winthrop passed away on March 24.

Beloved husband of the late Marilyn Breen. Devoted father

of Lawrence Breen and his wife the late Lillian and Lisa Frye and her husband Gordon. Dear brother of the late Leonard Breen. Loving grandfather of Peter, Michelle, Steven, Adam and Evan.

Arthur was a proud Army Veteran who served in the Korean conflict. Once he was honorably discharged he finished his studies and became a wellrespected Optometrist.

Graveside services on Wednesday, March 27, 11:00 AM at Beth Israel Cemetery, 232 Fuller Street, Everett.

Contributions in Arthur’s memory may be made to the charity of your choice.

Torf Funeral Service of Chelsea assisted with arrangements.

Edward A. Deschenes, 91

ATKINSON, NH - Edward A. Deschenes, 91, of Atkinson, NH passed away March 21, 2024, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on January 6, 1933, to the late Henry and Ruth (Rundle) Deschenes.

In addition to his loving wife, Edward is survived by his children; Cynthia and her husband Stephen LaBonte of Malden, MA, Brian and his wife Mindi of San Antonio, TX, Diane and her husband Eric McDevitt of Cotuit, MA, and Paula Narenkivicius of Brookline, MA and his grandson River. He is predeceased by his son Edward Jeffrey Deschenes; his siblings George Deschenes and Ruth Pannella. The Carrier Family Funeral Home of Windham, NH assisted with arrangements.

Howard H. Levine, PhD, 73

WESTBOROUGH - Howard

H. Levine, PhD, age 73, died peacefully on Sunday, March 24, 2024 at Westborough Healthcare, after a long illness. Born in Worcester, Howard was the son of Sydney S. and Rita Jean (Scheyer) Levine.

Howard will be lovingly missed and remembered by his sister, Jacqueline “Jackie” Robbio and her husband, David of Salem; his brother, Alan C. Levine; his beloved nieces and nephews, Kalliopi Thanos of California, Douglas Zarkin of New York, Seth Zarkin of Arizona, Ross Levine of Newton, Massachusetts, Justin Levine of California; and his brother-inlaw, Norman Zarkin of Florida. He was predeceased by his sister, Cheryl Zarkin.

Arrangements are under the care of Miles Funeral Home of Holden.

LEGAL NOTICES

HUDSON

HUDSON CONSERVATION COMMISSION

LEGAL PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

The Hudson Conservation Commission will hold a Public Hearing relative to the following filing under the Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. Chapter 131, Section 40) as requested by Ron Aspero. The owner of the property is Paul Carney. The work is located at 310 Brigham Street (MapParcel-Lot 71-15-4). The proposed project is construction of a house in Buffer Zone to Bordering Vegetated Wetlands and Floodplain. The Public Hearing will be held via remote video conference on April 18, 2024 at 7:00 pm. Please contact the Conservation Commission Office for information on joining the meeting: phelinek@ townofhudson.org or 978-562-2948.

All interested parties are urged to attend. The application can be obtained through email by contacting the Conservation Commission Office.

SECTION 00 11 13 ADVERTISEMENT TO BID

MGL C.149 OVER $150K

The HUDSON HOUSING AUTHORITY, the Awarding Authority, invites sealed bids from Contractors for the ARPA TARGETED Hudson Federal Pacific Panel Replacement at State Aided Development: Brigham Circle (667-2) in Hudson, Massachusetts, in accordance with the documents prepared by BLW ENGINEERS, INC.

The Project consists of but not limited to: Replace/Retrofit the FPE Stab Lock Apartment/Office/Laundry Loadcenters. Upgrade the Fire Alarm system with a new addressable system, with CO detection, as applicable, that meets current MA code with fire department notification/central monitoring.

The work is estimated to cost $962,845.00

Bids are subject to M.G.L. c.149 §44A-J & to minimum wage rates as required by M.G.L. c.149 §§26 to 27H inclusive.

THIS PROJECT IS BEING ELECTRONICALLY BID AND HARD COPY BIDS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. Please review the instructions in the bid documents on how to register as an electronic bidder. All

Call 508.366.5500

General bids and sub-bids shall be accompanied by a bid deposit that is not less than five (5%) of the greatest possible bid amount (including all alternates) and made payable to the HUDSON HOUSING

AUTHORITY. Note: A bid deposit is not required for Projects advertised under $50,000.

Bid Forms and Contract Documents will be available for review at biddocs.com (may be viewed and downloaded electronically at no cost).

General bidders must agree to contract with minority and women business enterprises as certified by the Supplier Diversity Office (SDO), formerly known as SOMWBA. The combined participation benchmark reserved for such enterprises shall not be less than 13% of the final contract price including accepted alternates. Request for waivers must be sent to EOHLC (david.mcclave@mass.gov) 5 calendar days prior to the General Bid date. NO WAIVERS WILL BE GRANTED AFTER THE GENERAL BIDS ARE OPENED

PRE-BID CONFERENCE / SITE VISIT: Scheduled Date and Time: 04/11/2024 at 11:00AM

until 1:00 PM local time, 4/17/2024; by mailing proposals to the Town Manager’s office at 100 Maple Ave., Shrewsbury MA 01545, with submissions clearly marked “Floral Street Roofing Project”. All submissions shall comply with the specification issued by the Town of Shrewsbury, including, without limitation, all qualifications and submission requirements. The Town reserves the right to waive any informality in or to reject any, any part of, or all responses in the best interest of the Town. Contract award is subject to appropriation and award by the Shrewsbury Select Board. Any Response submitted will be binding for thirty (30) days subsequent to the time of opening.

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice of Hearing -

G.L. Chapter 131, s. 40

Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Bob Mohaltra, 46 Deerfield Road, Shrewsbury, MA, has filed a request to Amend the Order of Conditions for the construction of retaining walls and elevation raise of a single-family home and driveway at 7 Flanagan Drive.

A public hearing will be held on the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, April 16, 2024, in the Selectman’s Room at Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.

SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION

Kenneth Polito, Chairman

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice of Hearing -

G.L. Chapter 131, s. 40

PUBLIC SALE

Notice is hereby given by Boulevard Towing of 550 Franklin Street Worcester, MA, pursuant to the provisions of Mass G.L c. 255, Section 39A, that they will sell the following vehicles on or after April 6, 2024 beginning at 10:00 am by public or private sale to satisfy their garage keeper’s lien for towing, storage, and notices of sale. Vehicles are being stored at Boulevard Towing.

1. 2014 Chevrolet Silverado VIN 1GCVKREH5EZ370527

2. 2019 Volkswagen Atlas VIN 1V2LR2CA3KC574899

Signed, Pat Assad, owner Boulevard Towing 3/22, 3/29, 4/5

SHREWBURY

The Town of Shrewsbury Public Facilities, 100 Maple Ave., Shrewsbury MA 01545 (“the Town”), invites the submission of responses for Floral Street Roof Replacement Project at the Floral Street School, 57 Floral Street, Shrewsbury MA 01545 in the Town of Shrewsbury. The IFB may be obtained by visiting the Town’s website www.shrewsburyma.gov/bids, beginning on 4/3/2024. A voluntary Pre-Bid Conference/Walk Through will be held at 57 Floral Street, beginning at 3:45 PM on 4/11/2024. Responses will be received

Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Paul Valente, 7 Temple Court, Shrewsbury, MA, 01545, has filed a Notice of Intent for the demolition and reconstruction of a singlefamily home and associated site work at 7 Temple Court.

A public hearing will be held on the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, April 16, 2024, in the Selectman’s Room at Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.

SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION

COMMISSION

Kenneth Polito, Chairman

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice of HearingG.L. Chapter 131, s. 40

Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Julianne Hertel, 54 Lakeside Drive, Shrewsbury MA 01545 has filed a Notice of Intent for the construction of a patio, deck, staircase, and fence as well as the removal of 2 trees at 54 Lakeside Drive.

Kenneth

POLICE FIRE&

Two cats die in a fire at Marlborough home

By Ron Ayotte Contributing Writer

MARLBOROUGH – Firefighters battled a fire in a Marlborough home on March 28.

The Marlborough Fire Department was dispatched to a report of smoke in a single family home at 16 Kings View Road. Engine 3, based out of Station 3 on Boston Post Road East, was the first due engine on the scene. Lt. Mike Cizek, the officer on Engine 3, reported smoke coming out of a window.

Battalion Chief Ken MacEwen, the shift commander in Car 5, struck the box for a working fire while en route. Engine 1, Engine 2, Rescue 1, Truck 1 and Squad 1 filled out the assignment. Fire Chief Kevin Breen (Car 1) and Assistant Chief Jeff Emanuelson (Car 3) also responded.

The firefighters of Engine 3 pulled an attack line and knocked the fire down in the

room of origin. Other firefighters checked for fire extension and did a search for the two cats, who died in the fire.

The utilities to the structure were shut down. The Marlborough Fire Department’s Fire Investigation Unit (FIU) and the Marlborough Building Department were requested to the scene.

“This was a textbook roomand-contents fire. The door to the room of origin was closed,” said MacEwen. “While the home was charged with smoke, the closed door contained the fire to that room and prevented the fire from spreading.”

Southborough Fire responded to mutual aid on the working fire, but due to the quick knockdown it was redirected to a cover assignment.

The cause of the fire is under investigation. According to MacEwen, a preliminary estimate of damage to the home was about $25,000.

Marlborough Police issues alert about Bitcoin scam

MARLBOROUGH – The Marlborough Police Department has been investigating what it calls “multiple scams” involving Bitcoin machines in the city.

Similar to an ATM, these machines accept cash, which can then be transferred to another person’s Bitcoin account “wallet.”

Scammers are calling and emailing people, alleging that they’ve been involved in crimes, etc. Scammers will then instruct people to go to their bank and withdraw large sums of cash. As they walk into the bank,

scammers will call and listen to the bank transaction. After this, the scammers will instruct the person to go to a Bitcoin machine and deposit the cash into a specific Bitcoin account “wallet.”

Several people have fallen for this scam, including the elderly. Marlborough Police have intercepted/prevented a $20,000 cash deposit from an elderly victim who was having difficulty using the machine.

If you receive such a phone call or email, contact Marlborough Police at 508-485-1212.

Westborough

Friday, March 22

5:55 p.m. Arrested , Matthew Kowalik, 41, of 22 Plum St., Apt. 2, Worcester, for fail to stop/yield, Lynn District default warrant, op MV with license suspended.

10:11 p.m. Arrested, Domenic James Porcello, 40, of 45 Treetop Pk., Westborough, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, resist arrest.

11:05 p.m. Arrested , Marvin M. Solorzano Hernandez, 28, of 261 Church St., Apt. 2, Marlborough, for op MV with license suspended subsq. offse.

Saturday, March 23

1:49 a.m. Arrested, Enner Dionicio Hernandez, 35, of 58 Manning St., Apt. 2, Hudson, for OUI-liquor or .08%, unlicensed operation of MV, number plate violation, negligent operation of motor vehicle.

Sunday, March 24

2:23 p.m. Arrested , Manuel Castro, 33, of 28 Court St., Milford, for op MV with license suspended.

Monday, March 25

1:09 p.m. Arrested , Randy J. Jordan, 40, of 12 Kayla Dr. NW, Rome, GA, for op MV with license suspended, trespass with motor vehicle, fail to wear seat belt.

Tuesday, March 26

11:39 a.m. Arrested , Marcos Jeronimo Cristostomo Obispo, 37, of 249 N Beacon St., Apt. 1, Brighton, on default warrant.

Shrewsbury

Friday, March 22

11:23 a.m. Arrested, Ihnaya Danairis Burgos, 21, of 4483 Weldon Place, Orlando, FL, for A&B with dangerous weapon, malicious destruction of property.

Saturday, March 23

1:04 a.m. Arrested, Emily Victoria Alden, 20, of 165 Worthington Ave., Shrewsbury, on warrant.

8:43 p.m. Arrested, Xu Ha Tu, 62, of 473 Boston Tpke., Apt. 2, Shrewsbury, for OUI liquor.

Tuesday, March 26

9:35 p.m. Arrested, Emmanuel Devilme, 39, of 176 Orchard Hill Dr., Apt. 176, Oxford, for OUI liquor, marked lane violation.

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POLICE LOG

Wednesday, March 27

4:39 p.m. Arrested , Lilly Ann Blanchette, 22, of 75 Huntoon Memorial Hwy., Leicester, on warrant.

Marlborough

Thursday, March 21

7:01 p.m. Arrested, Yadiel Ortega Montero, 22, of 460 BPRE, Apt. B405, Marlborough, for fugitive from justice on court warrant.

Friday, March 22

1:21 a.m. Arrested, Wilder Erlis Rodriguez Rivera, 27, of 13 Farmhouse Ln., Apt. 18, Marlborough, for OUI-liquor or .08%, op MV with registration suspended, uninsured motor vehicle, unlicensed operation of MV.

6:43 p.m. Arrested , Roxana Magaly Noriega, 21, of 44 Howland St., Marlborough, for op MV with license suspended, possess open container of alcohol in MV.

Saturday, March 23

7:37 p.m. Arrested , Wilber Salazar Garcia, 32, of 49 South St., Apt. 1, Marlborough, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle.

Tuesday, March 26

8:42 p.m. Arrested , Jasmin Beatriz Carreras, 39, of 24 Redbud Way, Apt. 14, Marlborough, on true warrant, op MV with license suspended.

Wednesday, March 27

3:46 p.m. Arrested, Samantha L. Downer, 28, of 15 Chandler St., Marlborough, courtesy booking, and George Luis Rivera, 34, of 35 Laurier St., Worcester, courtesy booking.

8:42 p.m. Arrested , Nayara Santos Guimaraes, 26, of 34 Curtis Ave., Apt. 7, Marlborough, on true warrants, unlicensed operation of MV.

Thursday, March 28

10:07 p.m. Arrested, Fabio De Souza Coelho, 37, of 81 Washington St., Hudson, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, op MV with license suspended, marked lanes violation, possess open container of alcohol in MV.

Northborough

Saturday, March 23

9:33 a.m. Arrested , Marcus Vinicus Evanslindmantess, 28, of 1337 Main St., Apt. 2, Worcester, on warrant.

8:33 p.m. Arrested, Jason Howard Schuster, 40, of 110388 Hunt Dairy Rd., Mitchell, NB, for negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08% 4th or greater offense, MV lights violation.

Sunday, March 24

10:11 p.m. Arrested , Josiel Souza Ferraz, 26, of 32 Francis St., Everett, for unlicensed operation of MV.

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.

Marlborough firefighters battled a fire at Kings View Road. (Photo/Ron Ayotte)

Hudson school budget to increase by 7%

By Sarah Freedman

Contributing Writer

HUDSON — At the March 25 Select Board meeting, Superintendent Brian Reagan and School Committee Chair Steven Smith explained the status of the fiscal 2025 budget.

Reagan noted that there are no changes to the $44.27 million amount that was voted on in February. He said that the use of School Choice and Circuit Breaker, which is for extraordinary special education costs, as well as federal grant money, is also part of the school district budget.

The overall increase will be 7%, he said, which could seem “outrageous.” However, in his communication with leaders of other school districts, he said, “I’m seeing schools across the commonwealth that are looking at anywhere from 5 to 12% in terms of their costs.”

“We’re all sort of experienc-

ing the same sort of budget drivers,” said Reagan.

Hudson’s budget drivers are the six staff positions, including three adjustment counselors, covered by the Federal Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) grant money and an additional section of the dual language program at Farley Elementary School for third grade.

“The services are still needed, even though COVID is behind us,” said Reagan.

They dug deep into the budget and looked at how to address a decrease in overall enrollment, but an increase in the high needs population. He noted it was not just a case of cutting the budget to reflect the 20% decrease in enrollment over 10 years.

Reagan said they found “just over $400,000 in savings by reducing roughly four and a half positions from the district” in the core academic

area of the budget.

In terms of the budget, he said, “We have to continue to look at our enrollment.”

To offset the 51% increase in transportation costs, he said they are looking at a use of about $4 million in School Choice funds. At the March 12 School Committee meeting, the committee approved a $2.42 million contract with First Student for busing for three years with an option to renew two times.

Reagan said, “So when we can find a savings like the $400,000 in staffing that might help mitigate the use of… School Choice [funds], it’s smart business for the school district, as it is for the town, to have some level of stabilization.”

A situation may come up where a student needs an outof-district placement, for example, and they may need to use reserve funds, he said.

Select Board Chair Scott Duplisea spoke to the fact that

“it didn’t sound very encouraging” on the state end for school funding, specifically Chapter 70, as Sen. Jamie Eldridge (DMarlborough) reported. Eldridge said that the fiscal 2025 increase for Chapter 70 was in the “several tens of thousands of dollars,” a lower number than he had hoped.

Duplisea said, “It’s statewide.”

Reagan said that was why the school district has to commit to “making sure we are as efficient and as tight as possible” in terms of budgeting.

He said, “I know $400,000

may not sound like much, but … it’s a significant cut for us.”

He said they have to be able to do that kind of finance work every budget cycle going forward.

Duplisea said that everybody in the school district leadership, including the school committee and administration was “working hard,” which was very important for the children in the Hudson community. Budget challenges would not be going away, he added.

Duplisea said, “We have to try to figure it out, and it’s going to take a collective effort here.”

BVT students from Grafton earn medals at skills competition

UPTON – Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School (BVT) students put their vocational-technical skills on full display March 13.

During the first of three SkillsUSA competitions, students test their vocationaltechnical competency by competing with other trained career and technical education students from six vocational high schools. On March 13, 227 BVT students competed in the annual SkillsUSA Massachusetts District V Competition. The competition allows students to demonstrate their vocational-technical education, skills and knowledge with SkillsUSA employment and trade tests. Successfully demonstrating their knowledge in their career technical area of study, employability skills and safety. Student competitors from BVT proudly claimed 36 gold, 27 silver, 31 bronze medals and swept nine categories.

Sixty-eight students will advance from districts to compete amongst the most talented vocational-technical students in the commonwealth at the SkillsUSA Massachusetts State competition held at BVT in late April. An additional 43 students will go directly to the state competition, and 13 student delegates will represent BVT. The complete list of medalists is available at www.valleytech.k12.ma.us/ skillsusa.

BVT students from Grafton earned the following medals:

Silver: Connor Mcinerney, HVAC/R; Cooper Often, mechatronics; Owen O’Packi, television (video) production;

Marlborough schools move forward with proposed $76.3 million budget

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – While Marlborough Public Schools (MPS) continues to negotiate with several unions, it will present its proposed budget for fiscal 2025.

The budget — $76,252,590, about 5.9% over the 2024 fiscal year budget — will be part of the School Committee’s agenda on Tuesday, April 9, at 7:30 p.m. at 17 Washington St.

The School Committee will also conduct a public hearing on the proposed budget on Tuesday, April 30, after which the committee will vote on the budget.

The school budget will then be sent to the mayor and City Council on Monday, May 6.

MPS is negotiating with the Marlborough Educators Association, along with the paraeducators, administrative office support and adminis -

ARHS to hold SoccerFest

NORTHBOROUGH – The Algonquin Regional High School will be holding the first Gonkplex SoccerFest to benefit the Jimmy Fund on April 28.

The event will take place between 1 to 4 p.m.

There will be a $100 flat fee for all teams wishing to participate in the tournament. All of the proceeds from signing up will go toward Dana Farber and the Jimmy Fund on their mission to defy cancer through research and care.

To sign up, visit https:// tinyurl.com/5dwjmx2z.

BVT students from Grafton earn medals at skills competition

BVT | from page 24

Ryan St. Angelo, culinary arts.

Bronze: Audrey Bell, robotics and automation tech; Zoey Dauderis, basic health care; Isabella Grabau, power equipment technology; Soumith Madadi, computer programming; and Benjamin Miller, urban search and rescue.

trators’ association (Unit B). According to School Committee member Heidi Matthews, “we have progressed” on the negotiations.

A look at the 2025 budget

According to MPS Superintendent Mary Murphy, most of the projected increase — $3.1 million — will go toward anticipated salary and wage hikes in contracts, some of which are still being negotiated.

An additional $967,271 will be allocated toward out-ofdistrict tuition.

Some requests were not included in the 2025 fiscal year budget, including English language paraprofessionals and coordinators; a special education teacher; and an additional assistant principal for Whitcomb Middle School.

The district is also dealing with another increase — enrollment.

“Our elementary schools

are out of space,” Murphy said.

“The current enrollment at Goodnow Elementary exceeds the building design by nearly 200 students,” according to the FY25 Budget book.

Goodnow Brothers Elementary School is requesting $181,444 for an additional school nurse and a second assistant principal. According to Murphy, the enrollment at that school is approaching 850 students.

Capital project requests for 2025 will include $250,000 to install a new generator at Jaworek Elementary School; $250,000 to replace or repair exit signs and broken lights at the high school; $500,000 to install new HVAC controls in all the classrooms at Whitcomb; and $200,000 to install new energy-efficient equipment within the district.

The budget is now available for viewing at www.mps-edu. org.

Westborough senior named a presidential scholar

WESTBOROUGH – Kyran Trivedi, a senior at Westborough High School, has been selected for the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.

Trivedi, who will attend Northwestern University this fall, was chosen based on her SAT score of 1590.

She will receive an all-expense paid trip to Washington, D.C., to meet the president and tour the White House.

The program was established in 1964, by executive order of the president, to recognize and honor some of the nation’s most distinguished graduating high school seniors.

In 1979, the program was extended to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the visual, creative and performing arts.

In 2015, the program was again extended to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical education fields.

Each year, up to 161 students are named as presidential scholars, one of the nation’s highest honors for high school students.

Kyran Trivedi (Courtesy Photo)

Bellofatto propels Westborough baseball past Grafton in season-opening win

By Evan Walsh Reporter

WESTBOROUGH – Though the forecast called for snow and sleet later in the week, the sun shone brightly for Opening Day.

On April 1, the Grafton Gators traveled up Route 30 to open their season against the Westborough Rangers. While both teams had positive takeaways from the game, the Rangers ultimately outlasted the Gators, winning the interleague matchup, 6-2.

“For our opening game, it was a pretty clean ballgame. We had one defensive play that got a little away, but other than that, I thought we were pretty clean. They made it close, and then we tacked on to extend the lead, which was huge. I thought our guys competed. It was good,” Westborough Head Coach Scott Kittredge told the Community Advocate.

The Rangers started scoring

early. After one single and two walks loaded the bases with two outs in the second inning, Westborough senior assistant captain Nick Bellofatto laced

a bases-clearing double down the left-field line, putting the Rangers ahead 3-0. Bellofatto, who went 2-4 on the day with 3 RBIs, also singled in the open-

ing frame and made a key defensive stop late in the game to preserve Westborough’s lead.

“Huge day. He used the whole field... He’s a senior lead-

er for us, he’s an assistant captain, and he played like it today. He was great,” Kittredge said.

“It felt great to take the lead. Our dugout was dead, and getting the hit — getting the RBI to get the lead — it got everyone going and it gave us the momentum in the game. It felt really good,” Bellofatto said.

But Grafton’s pitching staff — led by Chris Kiesiner, who also batted third for the Gators — quickly settled in.

After allowing the three runs, Kiesiner retired five consecutive batters. He struck out eight players over 4.2 innings — five swinging, three looking — while he was on the mound. Grafton’s offense fought back in the fourth inning; Kiesiner and Jake Mayerhauser drew back-to-back walks and eventually scored.

With the score now 3-2, Westborough added two insurance runs in the fifth inning and another in the sixth. Justin McCafferty — who pitched five innings for the Rangers — and senior captain Andy Cerniglia kept the Gator bats at bay for the rest of the game. Westborough closed out the game in the seventh having retired eight consecutive batters.

“What we expect from the guys is just to be ready. Westborough has a quality team; the pitcher that pitched today is legit. As we go through, we just have to clean some things up. It’s the first game of the season. Even the Red Sox — we talked about that — you’re going to end up having a misstep here and there, but as we go we have things to correct,” said Grafton Head Coach Brian Andersen.

And although Westborough walked away with the win, Kittredge acknowledged that this was the first of many games.

“We’ve got a young bunch… We’re not exactly sure what we’re going to be. I do think we’ll be competitive, I think we’ve got some talent. We’ll see exactly how high the ceiling is,” he said.

“We’re hoping to keep it on the right track. Last year we made the playoffs, we’re hoping to do that again. [Have a] winning record, make the playoffs, and hopefully get a home playoff game — those are the main three goals,” Bellofatto added.

Westborough gathers between innings. (Photo/Evan Walsh)

Rudzinsky earns ‘Athletic Director of the Year’ award

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – Jeff Rudzinsky was recently honored as the “Athletic Director of the Year” for District 3 at the 49th annual Massachusetts Secondary Schools Athletic Directors Association (MSSADA).

Rudzinksy has been the athletic director for Marlborough High School since 2010, replacing Rich Riley.

According to a 2010 article in Wicked Local, he had been involved in Marlborough sports for over 20 years when he became the AD, including serving as the defensive coordinator for the Marlborough High School football team.

“Jeff Rudzinsky (Rudz) has been a cornerstone in the Marlborough community for over 15 years. He has an amazing impact on our students and families through his dedication as our Athletic Director,” said Marlborough High School Principal Dan Riley. “This is more than just a job for Rudz, as all five of his children graduated from Marlborough High School and participated in our sports programs. This recognition is well-deserved and a tribute to the positive impact of his career in MPS!”

Last November, the school received the District 3 Sports-

Local athletes taking part in Boston Marathon

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

BOSTON – The 128th running of the Boston Marathon will take place on Monday, April 15.

Division start times from Hopkinton Center are as follows:

Military March – 6 a.m.

Men’s Wheelchair – 9:02 a.m.

Women’s Wheelchair – 9:05 a.m.

Handcycles and Duos – 9:30 a.m.

Professional Men – 9:37 a.m.

Professional Women – 9:47 a.m.

Para Athletes Division – 9:50 a.m.

Wave 1 – 10 a.m.

Wave 2 – 10:25 a.m.

Wave 3 – 10:50 a.m.

Wave 4 – 11:15 a.m.

manship Award from the MIAA.

Other athletic directors honored by MSSADA include Nipmuc’s Chris Schmidt, Methuen’s Matt Curran, Swampscott’s Kelly Wolff, Bishop Stang’s Dennis Golden, Franklin’s Karrah Ellis, Old Rochester’s Bill Tilden and Abington’s Peter Serino.

Ludlow High School’s Tim Brillo was named MSSADA Athletic Director of the Year.

If you know of a local sports hero, or you have a local sports story or tip to report, send it to us at news@communityadvocate.com.

For information the course, parking and spectator restrictions and road closures, visit https://www.baa.org/ races/boston-marathon. The following local residents will be taking part:

Can’t wait until Friday for your local news? Visit CommunityAdvocate.com for daily

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Grafton – Jeffrey Gardner, Chris Marino

South Grafton – Ryan Connors, Cory Hetu

Hudson – Caitlyn Ashton, Sharon Foster, Byron Gartrell, Erin Mannion, John Messer, Daniel Milton, Megan Morrissey, Dean Murphy, Joseph O’Brien

Marlborough – Mark Agostinelli, Gary Cattarin, Tim Mangano, Angele Myers, Heath Oikle, Cody Plourde, Joshua Prouty, Joe Regan, Liam Shanahan, Katarina

Stashyn, Andrea Vuono, Yuki Wagner, Kimberly Walch, Karen Zenteno

Northborough – John Bourgeois, Nigel Burmeister, Jeffrey Germain, Kate Girard, Kenneth Hayes, Jasmine Li, Nicole Lynn Fillipon, Richard Madamba, Hayley Norton, Claudia Rossi, Jane Shou, Ashley Soughley, Jessica Swensen, Enchee Xu, Heather Zimmerman

Shrewsbury – Mary Beth Cashman, David Catarius, Gennaro Conte, Alexa Elworthy, Sheila Gaffey, Jennifer Jeretina, Christopher Knight, Amy Kotsopoulos, Heather Ostrander, Sara Pragluski Walsh, Erin Purcell, Gregory Steinberg, Laurel Taylor, Patrick Theodoss, Michael Webb, Craig Wentworth, Ping Zhang

Southborough – Lauren Ames, Grace Bellefeuille, Emily Dahlstrom, Beth Delahunty, Yun Gao, Brendon Giblin, Caleb Kane, Jaclyn Kawka, Andrew Krauss, Christina McCarthy, Ramprasad Shetty, Katherine Sparre, Edward Sullivan, Gregory Szczepanski, Sarah Teebagy

Westborough – Adam Frye, Mingliang Guo, Peter Halkett, John Levey, Derek Pittorino, Naitik Shah, Chris Tanaka, Tonimarie Welch

Jeff Rudzinsky was honored with the “Athletic Director of the Year” award for District 3. (Courtesy Photo)

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