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Article requests $1.7M in CPA funds to purchase

Whitney St. parcel

NORTHBOROUGH | 6

Beal Commons appeal will head to trial

shrewsbury| 7

Bellofatto propels

Westborough baseball past Grafton

westborough | 26

Eggstravaganza!

Egg hunt draws hundreds of local kids

By Evan Walsh, Reporter

SHREWSBURY – The Easter Bunny wasn’t the only thing hopping on March 30.

Hundreds of energetic, eager children gathered at Dean Park for an “Eggstravaganza!” The event — hosted by the Shrewsbury Recreation Department and sponsored by Shrewsbury Federal Credit Union and Thrive Real Estate Specialists — featured

Shrewsbury residents gathered at Dean Park to collect eggs as part of the “Eggstravaganza!” event on March 30. (Photo/Evan

over 10,000 brightly colored plastic eggs strewn throughout the park.

The Recreation Department started planning the event in January, but with thousands of eggs to stuff, it took help from dozens of volunteers from around town.

“It was a community effort. The Senior Center’s Council on Aging stuffed almost 2,000 eggs. The RISE students also stuffed

Eggstravaganza | 14

Westborough officials ponder possible sewer moratorium

By Maureen Sullivan and Laura Hayes

WESTBOROUGH – As local communities try to accommodate more housing and commercial development, a major component could impact present and future plans.

The town of Westborough is currently assessing its ability to keep up with both existing and future sewer demand. Existing demand consists of actual daily flow combined with “promised” capacity in the form of sewer credits.

The town recently completed an inventory of every commercial property in town to see what has been promised in order to assess what future capacity is available.

This data, compiled by Town Engineer Lisa Allain, has been supplied to an infrastructure consulting firm, AECOMM, to make recommendations on a path forward.

The Westborough Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) is at 238 Turnpike Road. It has a design flow of 7.68 million gallons per day (mgd) that is shared by Westborough, Shrewsbury and Hopkinton.

According to the treatment plant, the average daily flow for Westborough is 2.27 mgd; for Shrewsbury, it’s 3.69 mgd; and for Hopkinton, it’s 0.32 mgd.

The daily flow limit, per the Intermunicipal Agreement, is 2.89 mgd for Westborough; 4.39 mgd for Shrewsbury; and 0.40 for Hopkinton.

On paper, that leaves about 620,000 gallons per day for Westborough; however, that number cannot be verified until an assessment of the promised capacity is complete.

“That is what we’re trying to figure out,” said DPW Director Chris Payant. “We’re not at our limit. We need to reassess what capacity is still available.”

Walsh)

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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(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

Westborough officials ponder potential sewer moratorium

By the end of June, he said, “We’ll have a product that we’ll be circulating to committees” — including the Select Board — to determine how to use that data.

“This isn’t unique to Westborough — it’s a real problem” across the state, he added.

In light of MBTA communities being required to zone for multi-family housing, the topic of sewer capacity and other infrastructure issues came up during Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of Commerce’s legislative breakfast on March 28.

Rep. Meghan Kilcoyne said water is a “huge barrier” to the ability to quickly develop housing. She said the Legislature would be looking to see if there would be a way to connect municipalities and communities to more access to water, though she added that she didn’t know what that would look like.

“I think, to your point, water and sewer is going to be something that we’re going to have to do,” Kilcoyne said.

Boylston, she said, is “tapped out” in regards to its well system, as is Sterling, and they are looking for creative ways to get water to be able to build the needed housing stock.

“I think all of us in the Legislature … we certainly recognize some of the infrastructure challenges that many of these communities face, especially outside of [Route 128] when we get out into Central Mass. and MetroWest out here,” Kilcoyne said.

Discussion of a moratorium

According to Payant, there is no official “sewer moratorium” in place in Westborough. Sewer

However, once the consultant presents a report based on the data, his department could draft a regulation to provide interim guidance that could lead to a sewer moratorium.

Discussion of sewer issues has come up at various meetings recently. At issue is the impact on increased housing and commercial development should the town run short of capacity.

“Sewer’s the main issue to more housing,” said Mark Silverberg, chair of the Planning Board, during the Advisory Finance Committee meeting on March 11.

Sewer usage 101 Sewer/wastewater is managed by permits issued by the town.

The DPW draws permits from the appropriate “buckets” for residential development, commercial development and industrial development.

Site plan review, including

impact to utilities and review for sewer, is conducted by the Planning Board.

The project application is ultimately decided by the Select Board.

Sewer flow is measured daily. If a site is allocated 100 gallons per day, and uses 50 gallons, the site is still allocated for 100 gallons; that allocation stays with the property when it changes hands.

The report on sewer flow was first developed in the early 2000s, with a “final report” in 2012.

“It’s time to update the plan — look at your needs, come up with some options,” said Payant. “The town’s grown, but the limit hasn’t changed.”

“There are opportunities [for development], but we’re constrained,” he added.

About the plant

The WWTP is located adja-

cent to Westmeadow Plaza.

The WWTP handles wastewater flows from Westborough and Shrewsbury, as well as some flows from Hopkinton under an intermunicipal agreement.

The plant is governed by

a board — three members from Westborough, three from Shrewsbury – appointed by the respective select boards.

Under the intermunicipal agreement, Westborough is to front the cost for operations and capital improvement with Shrewsbury reimbursing Westborough on a semiannual basis based on the percentage of flow.

Once the wastewater is treated, the plant sends the water into the Assabet River. The Westborough DPW is working on a feasibility study to try and direct some of that water back to town, and recharge its aquifers.

In another project, the DPW is working with the National Water Main Cleaning Co. on lining sewer pipes in the areas of School, Cross and West Main streets into early April. There will also be night work on West Main Street during this period. The work will help reduce leakage within the pipes.

According to Payant, the Select Board will be discussing sewer at an upcoming meeting.

Drone photography shows the Westborough Wastewater Treatment Plant. (Photo/Tami White)

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH – The town is proposing to use funds from the Community Preservation Act (CPA) to purchase land at 432 Whitney St.

Earlier this year, the Select Board expressed an interest in having the town exercise its

right of first refusal to purchase the property. It is owned by Santo Anza, who was convicted in 2013 on charges that he was operating an illegal solid waste dump at nearby 429 Whitney St.

“

The site is 23.77 acres of undeveloped land and was proposed to be sold to Howland Development Corporation for $1.7 million.

National Commander of Legion to be at Post 234

NORTHBOROUGH – The National Commander of the American Legion will be at the Vincent F. Picard Post 234 to meet with Worcester area veterans.

Commander Daniel J. Seehafer will be discussing veterans’ needs and ongoing Legion programs and initiatives, such as Be The One to prevent veteran suicide.

“Nothing is more important than our effort to reduce the number of veterans who

die by suicide,” said Seehafer. “Seventeen, 22 or even more a day. Even one is one too many. With all this talk about numbers on this very subject, the only number I want to push is ‘one,’ as in Be the One to save one, yes, one veteran, or even their spouse from taking his or her own life.”

He will be at Post 234 between 6:30 to 8 p.m. April 6. Post 234 is located at 402 West Main St.

We’re quite happy about the opportunity to acquire the land with all of our CPA reserves, no additional town revenue needed, no additional bonding, no additional borrowing.

John Campbell, CPC Chair

During the Select Board’s March 25 meeting, Community Preservation Committee (CPC) Chair John Campbell presented a proposal to use $1.7 million in CPA funds to purchase the property, which will be on the warrant for the April 22 Town Meeting.

The article calls for $817,653 from the unreserved fund, $664,073 from the conservation fund and $218,274 from new revenue. According to Campbell, after making this recommendation, the committee learned that the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) would be willing to give the town $200,000 toward the

conservation of the property. He said the department was also willing to hold the conservation restriction on the parcel for no fee.

The site bordered existing DCR land.

“We’re quite happy about the opportunity to acquire the land with all of our CPA reserves, no additional town revenue needed, no additional bonding, no additional borrowing,” said Campbell.

If the property is purchased at Town Meeting, Northborough leaders have discussed using it for open space and recreation along with a small affordable housing development of between four to eight units.

Other CPC projects

There will be a total of seven CPC articles on the warrant.

One of the projects would soundproof the new pickleball courts at Ellsworth McAfee Park. The Town Meeting article requests an appropriation of $54,000. Another requests $4,729 to purchase and install a historic marker for the Aqueduct Bridge that was reported stolen last fall.

Town Meeting will also vote on appropriating $210,000 to First Parish Northborough Unitarian-Universalist Church to restore the steeple. Campbell said the church will be pursuing grant opportunities and the congregation would be putting in some funds, as well.

“This is, we think, a very good value for the town. First Parish is regarded as one of our most recognizable historic assets, and it’s much more than a church. It’s a community center. It’s used for a variety of uses all year long, and I think a real asset to the community,” he said.

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – The appeal of the Beal Commons project will be heading to trial.

Massachusetts Land Court

Judge Kevin T. Smith heard arguments from plaintiffs and defendants on Feb. 29. Both sides asked for summary judgment, but Smith opted to bring the case to trial.

Beal Commons is a proposed 53-unit, 7,000-square-foot commercial-residential development. The Planning Board approved the project and four special permits by a 4-1 vote in April 2023.

In May, a group of residents appealed the special permits, leading to the Feb. 29 conference.

For the appeal to prove successful, the plaintiffs — seven abutters to the proposed site of Beal Commons at 1-7 Maple Ave. — must show evidence of “particularized injury” and demonstrate that the harm to their property would be differ-

ent than that of the rest of the community.

The defendants — the Planning Board and developer Shrewsbury Hascall MM LLC — sourced affidavits from experts to argue that no individualized harm exists. For example, the defendants outline in court documents that while the plaintiffs are concerned about the light from headlights entering the property, many said in depositions leading up to Feb. 29 that they already dealt with those “injuries” when Maj. Howard W. Beal School was in operation.

On the other hand, the plaintiffs “claim that the increase in traffic will unreasonably interfere with their ability to enter and exit their individual driveways and will also result in an undue increase in headlight glare entering their homes due to vehicles exiting the development site,” according to court documents.

To back up their argument, the plaintiffs submitted the affidavit of Paul Cheever, who the plaintiffs say is an expert

on traffic. Cheever argued that the conclusions presented by defendants’ traffic experts are flawed.

Much of the debate on Feb. 29 hinged on Cheever’s testimony. The defendants questioned Cheever’s credibility, arguing that he is not qualified and that the court should disregard his testimony.

“This is a summary judgment motion. The court may not make credibility assessments in determining whether there is an absence of a triable issue of fact. Cheever is a registered engineer who claims to have experience in trafficrelated issues. At this time, the court takes Cheever’s opinions at face value,” Smith said. “The defendants will have an opportunity at trial to challenge Cheever’s qualifications and his opinions and conclusions. Until then, his affidavit provides sufficient evidence to support the plaintiffs’ claim that they are entitled to a trial on the merits.”

A trial date is scheduled for June 3.

Races shape up for Southborough election

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

SOUTHBOROUGH – There will be races for Select Board and the Regional School Committee when the town holds its town election on Tuesday, May 14.

The following candidates will be running for office: Assabet Valley Regional School Committee (one seat, four-year term) – Mark E. Pietrewicz

Board of Assessors (one seat, three-year term) – Heath Surner Widdiss, candidate for re-election

Board of Commissioners of Trust Funds (one seat, threeyear term) – Susan DelardaWood, candidate for re-election

Board of Health (one seat, three-year term) – Chelsea Malinowski, candidate for reelection

Board of Library Trustees (two seats, three-year terms) –David C. Ekberg, candidate for re-election; Mary M. Tinti

Housing Authority (one seat, five-year term) – Bertha T. Ginga

Moderator (one seat, one-year term) – Paul M. Cimino, candidate for re-election

Northborough-Southborough Regional School Committee – Southborough candidates (two seats, three-year terms) – Kathleen A. Harragan, candidate for re-election, Johanna A. Sheyner, Jennifer Lane Primack; Northborough candidates (two seats, three-year terms) – Kathleen M. Howland, candidate for re-election, Gigi Lisa Howell, Christopher Allen Lacasse

Planning Board (one seat, five years) – Marnie Leigh Hoolahan, candidate for re-election

Select Board (one seat, three years) – Andrew Dennington, candidate for re-election; Joseph Palmer

Southborough School Committee (two seats, three years) – Laura M. Kauffmann, Alan Michael Zulick

Westborough prepares for Pay as You Throw program

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – Pay as You

Throw (PAYT) will soon become part of residents’ trash and recycling disposal routine.

On March 16 at the Environmental Action Fair, the Board of Health ran an information booth about the new program, which will go into effect on July 1.

The booth included flyers about the program, how to recycle and some visual aids, including two filled PAYT bags — one 15-gallon bag and a 33-gallon bag.

Residents will pay for the bags ($10 per roll of 10 15-gallon bags, or $10 per roll of five 33-gallon bags). The bags will be available for purchase at the public health office, the senior center and local retailers. A list of these retailers will be announced in May.

Residents will continue to pay for proof-of-residency stickers to access the transfer station. The stickers will be active for 12 months instead of 24 months. Town Manager Kristi Williams said the cost of the stickers will be reduced to a price yet to be determined because residents are being asked to pay for PAYT bags.

The stickers and the bags will help cover the operation costs of the transfer station.

The transfer station will continue to be open for recycling; because of costs there will not be a single-stream system, but there will be a three-stream system for paper, glass and plastic/metal.

The proposed budget for trash removal for the 2025 fiscal year will be $727,500. That could be reduced depending on how much trash is diverted from the waste stream via PAYT.

Williams said that based on estimates from the state’s Department of Environmental Protection, PAYT could reduce the town’s waste stream by about 25%; the revenue from the PAYT bags is estimated to be about $200,000. A portion of the revenue would go back to the town.

According to the Board of Health, the town currently disposes of 2,900 pounds of trash

Residents attending the Environmental Action Fair on March 16 could learn more about the town’s Pay as You Throw program.

per year; most communities in Central Massachusetts average about 1,300 pounds per year.

The Department of Environmental Protection also offers a grant for implementing the program; according to Williams, at $10 per dropoff user the grant could generate about $16,000 to be used for education on trash and recycling.

The Select Board approved the implementation plan dur-

ing its March 12 meeting; the plan will be submitted to the state to secure grant funding.

Town officials are negotiating with Harvey’s/Waste Management for a multiyear contract. The town is also negotiating a contract with WasteZero, a PAYT vendor that serves many communities in the state.

Information sessions will be scheduled for April and June.

Westborough Legion to offer free breakfast to veterans

WESTBOROUGH - The American Legion Post 0163 will offer a free veteran breakfast at the Westborough Senior Center on Saturday, April 6, at 10 a.m. The breakfast will be catered by Bob Sylvester and Guido Lonardo and their team of helpers from the senior center.

RSVP by calling the senior center at 1-508-366-3000.

There will be a speaker on a topic of interest and people to answer your questions regarding Department of Veterans Affairs paperwork. All veterans are welcome.

Appalachia Service Project to sponsor food drive

WESTBOROUGH – The Westborough Appalachia Service Project will sponsor a food drive on Saturday, April 6. Register your address to westboroughfooddrive@ gmail.com. On April 6 at 9 a.m., leave your donation curbside and ASP volunteers will conduct pickups through-

out the day. All donations will go to the Westborough Food Pantry.

No outdated or damaged items, please.

Financial donations will also be welcome. Donate via www.WestboroughFoodPantry.org, or Venmo @WestboroughFoodPantry.

(Photo by Maureen Sullivan)

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.”

WINESTOCK SATURDAY

April 27 2-3:30pm

A festival celebrating wines that are natural, organic, biodynamic, made with minimal manipulation and little to no additives

TEQUILA ROSE SATURDAY

May 11 2-3:30pm

Tasting tequilas, mezcals, and rosé wines

GINRUMMY SATURDAY

June 15 2-3:30pm

Our annual festival of gins and rums

SUMMER BEER BASH SATURDAY

Plus, watch for our weekly tastings, such as our Whisk(e)y Wednesdays!

Get all the updated info at www.juliosliquors.com

July 20 2-3:30pm

A unique tasting of beers and ready-to-drink alternatives FESTIVALS & TASTINGS are back in full swing at Julio’s Liquors!

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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.

Shrewsbury egg hunt draws hundreds of local kids

Eggstravaganza | from page 1

about 2,000 eggs. It was like, ‘We have all this stuff, and we’re on a timeline!’ And people just jumped in and helped. They filled them, we picked them up and it was wonderful,” said Director of Recreation Laurel Rossiter.

With plenty of eggs to go around, Dean Park was divided into different “age zones.” Younger egg-seekers searched in one corner of the field, while 6through 10-year-old participants sauntered through the softball fields. Older participants looked through the bandstand area of the park, and the Recreation Department offered sensory-friendly egg hunting on the nearby tennis courts.

The theme of the event was inclusion, Rossiter said.

As part of that effort, the event did not require registration and was free of cost to the community. The beautiful weather and thousands of eggs drew many participants, and Dean Park was packed.

“We really wanted to see how many people we could welcome

to Dean Park today,” Rossiter said.

The event included much more than egg hunting. Children

created crafts, met the Easter Bunny and were treated to donuts and grilled cheeses from food trucks.

“If you come to the park, 10,000 eggs will probably be gone [quickly]. To expand it a little, the bunny will be available

under the balloon arch and we have crafts. We tried to make it a little more involved,” Rossiter said.

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.

Monday through Friday

Morning Trips: 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.

Afternoon/Evening Trips: 3:45 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

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

Shrewsbury residents gather at Dean Park to collect eggs. (Photo/ Evan Walsh)

Shrewsbury seeks to invest $10 million in South Street DPW facility

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – Shrewsbury

seeks to invest roughly $10 million into work at the Department of Public Works (DPW) facility at 207 and 211 South St., according to Town Manager Kevin Mizikar’s presentation to the Select Board on March 26.

The plans include the possible demolition of the water and sewer garage (207 South St.) and renovation of the highway garage (211 South St.), Mizikar said. The plan is part of an effort to optimize DPW space, and Mizikar indicated that he hopes to complete the project in the next few years.

“What we’ve done over the last few months is really take a look at the structures, the systems, components of DPW’s operations, and we’ve found a lot of needs that are impacting day-to-day operations of their work,” Mizikar said.

State of the buildings

According to town GIS, the site at 205-211 South Street is 13.75 acres.

The 11,000-square-foot water and sewer garage houses the Water and Sewer Division. The 1950s-era building has become far too small for modernday operations, officials said, and the existing building is not conducive to expansion or renovation.

The building has failing masonry, water-damaged insulation and limited office space. The facility needs extensive HVAC and roofing work, and the building only has one bathroom and shower.

The building is at the end of its useful life, town officials said.

The 30,700-square-foot highway garage was built in 1976 and houses the Highway Division, Parks and Cemetery Maintenance Division, Fleet Management Division and Public Buildings Division.

The garage is in need of significant repairs, including electrical updates, HVAC replacements, Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant improvements and a roof replacement. The town has outgrown the 50-year-old building, which needs expanded storage space, improved employee facilities and other upgrades that would allow the space to accommodate larger vehicles, officials said.

There are roughly 35 on-site

employees between the two buildings, though additional workers often use the facilities during storms or other extended weather events.

DPW’s administrative offices occupy 3,800 square feet at Town Hall and also need additional space to operate effectively.

Whereas DPW administrators are currently split between the South Street facilities and 100 Maple Avenue, the project could combine the groups and potentially free up room in the Town Hall. Town leaders have previously said there was a lack of space at Town Hall.

The project may not be funded completely by taxes, according to Mizikar.

“This would allow us to use rates from the utilities that are raised through user fees to cover the cost of it. That extends into the administrative component… We’re not exactly sure how that plays out, but we think it’s an interesting thing to explore,” he said.

The project may include

“ Getting this project up and running sooner rather than later will have a benefit and not spike the tax bill in a future year.

Kevin Mizikar Town Manager

several items residents have asked for in the past, including a recycling center and permanent yard waste drop-off location.

While both buildings could technically be repaired, that solution would be costly and temporary, officials said.

Select Board officials weighed their options at the meeting.

Chair Beth Casavant said that looking at pictures of the facilities, she wondered whether it would be a better use of taxpayer dollars to repair a building at the end of its life or spend more to build a structure that would suit the town’s needs for the next 50 to 70 years.

“I don’t know how you justify repairing that building. It doesn’t seem possible,” said Casavant.

She noted that although the facility is out of view from the public, it’s just as important as other town buildings.

“It’s not like the library… where every time you walk in there you can see where your tax dollars are going. With something like this, unless you’re going to vote or using the cardboard dumpster, you’re not really spending a lot of time in this part of our town,” Casavant said. “But yet the DPW affects every aspect of residents’ experiences.” She said she’d still want a Building Committee to ensure the town isn’t overlooking potential reuse opportunities.

The Building Committee would weigh the town’s options, considering short- and

long-term goals and making sure the town is taking the best path forward. Similar to the Police Station Building Committee, the process would be monthslong and accessible to the public.

Mizikar said that any initial designs of the project would be funded with American Rescue Plan Act dollars.

The Building Committee could be formed as soon as April. Mizikar said that time is of the essence.

“Getting this project up and running sooner rather than later will have a benefit and not spike the tax bill in a future year,” he told the board. “I think this is an opportunity to move forward with a project that’s much needed.”

According to a timeline included in Mizikar’s presentation, the DPW upgrade proposal may appear at Town Meeting in October. From there, the tentative timeline notes that the project design would start in early 2025 with construction beginning in 2028.

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.

‘Safety zone’ lights in front of ARHS to remain until 9 p.m.

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH – The hours of a safety zone in front of Algonquin Regional High School (ARHS) will remain.

The topic came up during the March 25 Select Board meeting. Back in 2021, the Select Board established a safety zone 700 feet in either direction of the ARHS entrance in which the speed limit would be lowered to 20 mph between 7 to 8:30 a.m. and 2 to 9 p.m.

Initially, the town proposed that the safety zone be in effect until 6 p.m., but that was extended until 9 p.m. after some board members and residents argued that it may not be late enough with evening performances and athletic events.

According to Traffic Safety Committee Chair Bill Pierce, a resident reached out about the safety zone lights with concerns that the lights were on too long, particularly in the afternoon to evening. In the resident’s letter that was read during the meeting, the resident said it made it harder for police to enforce and easy for drivers to ignore.

“There aren’t that many school events that go past 8 p.m.,” Pierce said.

Generally, school events are over before 8 p.m., he said. Select Board Chair Mitch Cohen said if he was driving past ARHS at 8:30 p.m. and there weren’t any events, he may think the lights were broken

but he would still slow down.

“I think there’s some benefit in having the timing more closely pattern the regular use and not the exceptional use,” Cohen said.

Pierce said the committee reached out to school leaders, who didn’t have a recommendation. Police, he said, help with crowd control at events, but not necessarily with traffic control. Ultimately, the Traffic Safety Committee recommended that the safety zone hours be reduced to 7:30 p.m., subject to review after a year.

However, some Select Board members voiced concerns about changing the hours. Julianne Hirsh questioned whether the committee reached out to the neighborhood. She also said, if a school event ended at 8 p.m., by the time the students got in their car or were picked up, it may be about 8:30 p.m.

Laura Ziton said if the signs catch drivers’ attention and slow them down, her preference would be to keep it.

“I think that any time parents have asked for safety in the past, I think it’s a good thing to support, especially with the truck traffic that we have down there since Amazon came along and with the new student drivers and just in general, it’s an interesting area for traffic to come up over the hill,” said Lisa Maselli.

Pierce said it could be reviewed in a year, during which he would work with leaders to survey residents.

Garden Club seeks sponsors for flower boxes

WESTBOROUGH – Once the weather warms up, Westborough Garden Club will start planning the spring planting for the downtown flower boxes.

A collaborative effort by the Westborough Economic Development Committee (EDC) and the Westborough Garden Club, this program is a vehicle for local businesses, residents and community members to help beautify the downtown area through the placement of flower boxes around the Rotary.

There are currently 24 flower boxes and room for more businesses or individuals to sponsor flower boxes in the downtown area. You will be recognized on the EDC website as a sponsor.

If you are interested in sponsoring a flower box this year, please contact Maureen Johnson from the Westborough Garden Club at maureenj1@verizon.net by Friday, May 10, for more information about how to sponsor a flower box for the 2024 season.

Together, the Garden Club and the EDC are responsible for the planning, procurement, planting, watering and maintenance of 24 flower boxes lining sidewalks downtown. Flower boxes are sponsored by residents, local businesses and community members. The initial cost to sponsor a flower box, which includes planter, personalized plaque and flowers for the first year is $450, and is $200 for soil, fertilizer and plants each year thereafter.

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

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

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.

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

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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