Your community. Your news. Your paper.
Proposed industrial park’s sound, air pollution discussed at Planning Board
Shrewsbury| 5
Governor’s visit to Ascend Elements part of tour to charge up climate tech initiative
Westborough | 12
Grafton Garden Club sponsors annual cleanup
Grafton|
By Evan Walsh Reporter
WESTBOROUGH – It’s not often that an MLB-level hitting coach visits town, but it’s even rarer to have that coach spend their day traveling around the community to help athletes at all different levels.
But that’s what Ken Joyce did on April 17. He visited Westborough to help Westborough High School’s softball team, baseball team and the town’s Little League ballplayers.
Joyce passed on his 29 years of professional baseball experience — and his in-depth knowledge of the perfect swing — to roughly 60 Westborough athletes for over six hours.
Joyce earned his first World Series ring with the Florida Marlins organization in 1997. After some time in the Blue Jays organization, Joyce started coaching for the San Francisco Giants organization, where he would earn his second, third and fourth World Series rings in 2010, 2012 and 2014. Joyce coached in the Arizona Fall League, where he had Mike Trout and Bryce Harper on the same team.
As impressive as Joyce’s career is, he was the one that was impressed last week.
“What I saw was a bunch of young ladies that were eager to learn; they’ve
By Laura Hayes, Managing Editor
NORTHBOROUGH – An amendment made on the floor of Town Meeting on Monday, April 22, reduced the appropriation for a project to replace the siding of the town’s police station.
According to Department of Public Works Director Scott Charpentier, Article 19 would fund the removal of the siding and trim at the station, and the
installation of a new vapor barrier, siding and trim.
Town staff learned during a recent visit by contractors that the existing siding would not support paint, he said.
“This is due to systemic nail protrusions that are resulted from rotted clapboard and cupping of the clapboard as well as the trim,” said Charpentier.
During last year’s Town Meeting, voters ap -
Town Meeting | 9
The #1 ranked PreK-12 independent day school in Central Massachusetts chool
By Evan Walsh Reporter
SHREWSBURY – As rain fell, trash was picked up.
On April 20, dozens of dedicated community members volunteered their morning to pick up debris throughout town. Town Clean-Up Day — run by Keep Shrewsbury Beautiful and sponsored by Patrick Motor Group and Shrewsbury Federal Credit Union — aimed to help clean the town, one piece of litter at a time.
“We have a huge commitment to keeping everything clean. It just makes the town look better — so when you drive into the town you’re not driving into a mess. It’s just important for all of us on the park side of things,” Parks and Cemetery Division Manager Kevin Esposito said.
Volunteers stopped by Town Hall for trash bags, gloves and trash-grabbers. Armed with the proper equipment, they ventured into almost every area of town to collect debris. Some
Boy Scout, Cub Scout and Girl Scout troops were involved in the cleanup, while most volunteers were ordinary people determined to make a difference in their neighborhood.
“We just want to keep everything clean… A lot of the people are doing their own neighborhoods, which is nice because sometimes the parks are actually cleaner than the neighborhoods. It just really shows that people want to keep the parks clean as well as their own neighborhoods,” said Esposito.
PUBLISHER/EDITOR: David Bagdon ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: 508.930.9022
MANAGING EDITOR: Laura Hayes
ASSISTANT EDITOR: Maureen Sullivan
PROJECT EDITOR: Brett Peruzzi
REPORTER: Evan Walsh
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: Debra Roberts
ADVERTISING DEPT: Diane Sabatini | 508.366.5500 Cynthia Merchant | 508.736.4332 Mary Ellen Cyganiewicz | 508-366-5500 ext. 17 Barbara Clifford | 508-769-6259 Melissa Tatten-Perry | 413-658-7372
LEGAL & CLASSIFIED
ADVERTISING: Cynthia Merchant | 508.736.4332
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS: Ellen Bishop Lynne Fountain
OFFICE MANAGER: Tracy Nickerson
The Community Advocate is a weekly periodical, (U.S.P.S. # 014-423), published by Bagdon Advertising, Inc., with offices located at 32 South Street, Westborough, MA 01581. Periodicals postage is paid at Shrewsbury, MA 01546 and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Please send address changes to: Community Advocate, 32 South Street, Westborough, MA 01581. Publication date is Friday. Deadline for R.O.P. advertising, local community news and classified advertising is Friday, noon, seven days prior to publication. Not liable for typographical errors, however, we will reprint that portion of the ad wherein error occurred if notified in writing within three working days of the publication date. All material included is the property of The Community Advocate and may include material produced under copyright or a syndicated ad service. Permission must be obtained in writing before reproducing any material from any issue of the Community Advocate.
Grain mash serves as the backbone of alcohol production. Comprised of barley, corn, rye, or wheat, grain mash undergoes a meticulous process to unlock its sugars, essential for fermentation. Initially, the grains are ground into a coarse meal, facilitating the extraction of starches. This mash is then heated with water, creating a thick, porridge-like mixture. Enzymes are introduced to break down the starches into fermentable sugars, transforming the mash into a sweet liquid known as “wort.” Cooling the wort is followed by adding yeast, which triggers fermentation. During this stage, yeast converts the sugars into alcohol and carbon dioxide, producing a product known as “wash.” Subsequently, the wash is distilled to concentrate the alcohol content, resulting in the desired spirit.
Mashing is an ancient art dating back thousands of years. This process was known even to the Egyptians and Babylonians, who used a special, lightlybaked ‘beer bread’ for brewing alcoholic beverages. JULIO’S LIQUORS features 20,000 sq. ft. of spectacular shopping in downtown Westborough, MA. For more information, please call 508-366-1942, or visit us at 140 Turnpike Rd., Rt. 9 East HINT: Because of its many nutrients, spent grain mash is often used for feed for livestock.
Dear Editor:
The deteriorating state of the roads in Marlborough is a cause for concern, reflecting poorly on the city’s infrastructure and the people who determine where monies are spent. The comparison to third-world countries may seem drastic, but it’s hard to ignore craterlike potholes, uneven sur -
faces, and general disrepair that plague the road network around here. The impact goes beyond mere inconvenience.
Businesses along Route 20 are suffering due people (such as me) who are avoiding that part of Route 20, leading to economic repercussions for the Marlborough business community.
The allocation of funds is
a point of concern. While the construction of a boardwalk along Lake Williams — at the whopping cost of $1.7 million — may have its merits, it’s puzzling why such a substantial amount of money (or at least a portion of it) couldn’t have been redirected to addressing the pressing issue of road maintenance. Part of that funding could have been used
to expedite road construction work during evening hours, as other communities have done, without causing economic hardship to local businesses.
These observations raise valid concerns about the city’s priorities and the allocation of resources. As a resident and driver in Marlborough, it’s natural to question why essential infrastructure needs
are not being met, especially when funds seem to have been available.
Sheryl Roberts Marlborough
Support Craig Dauphinais for Select Board
Dear Friends and Neighbors, Please vote for Craig Dauphinais on Tuesday, May 21st for the Select Board. We have known Craig for over 30 years, and we know he will bring great experience and knowledge to this position. As a previous member of the Planning Board and Select Board, he demonstrates a deep understanding of town affairs. Craig will provide leadership, fiscal responsibility, and mature balanced guidance to the Board. Please vote for Craig on Tuesday, May 21st !!
Sincerely,
Laura & Jim Coughlin
Grafton
Thank goodness Craig is running again! That was our reaction when we first heard that Craig Dauphinais was running to regain a seat on the Grafton Select Board. Why our reaction and support? He has a lifelong understanding of Grafton and has shown, through his experience and understanding gained while serving on many Town Boards and Committees (including multiple terms as a Selectman), that he should be returned to our Select Board. We have always felt that Craig was quite effective as a Selectman; fair, objective, strong and forthcoming in that role and should have stayed, but job and family responsibilities created the need for him to step away for a few years. Now Craig is back, having the time once again to well serve the Town of Grafton; we’re going to delight in casting our vote for “Craig Dauphinais for Select Board” and suggest that you consider doing so as well. Mark your digital and paper calendars now with a reminder to VOTE for Craig Dauphinais in the Grafton Town Election on Tuesday, May 21st.
Cordial thanks to all, Bill & Pat Yeomans South Grafton
By Evan Walsh Reporter
SHREWSBURY – A proposed industrial park’s sound and air quality impact was discussed during an April 4 Planning Board meeting.
The developer, 160 Holden Street LLC, is an affiliate of Boston-based developer GFI Partners LLC.
The Interstate Crossing Industrial Park development is proposed for the 100-acre Worcester Sand and Stone property at 142 Clinton St. The project would include two buildings totaling 921,728 square feet with three entrances on Route 70. The plans also call for 524 vehicle parking spaces, 180 loading docks and 71 trailer storage spaces.
There is no known tenant for the buildings yet.
Marc Wallace, an executive and project manager at Waltham-based Tech Environmental Inc., performed sound analysis for the developers.
The development includes four proposed sound-dampening walls: one 330-foot-long, 25-foot-high wall along the Boylston side of the project; one 335-foot-long, 15-foothigh wall separating the property from Crosby Street residents; and 10-foot-high walls located in between the two proposed buildings. The walls, as well as rooftop silencers, would provide up to 26 decibels (dBA) of sound reduction to the closest abutters of the project, the report said.
“When we did our sound analysis, we looked at how to design those walls to protect those neighbors who need additional sound attenuation,” Wallace said.
Tech Environmental Inc. analyzed sound over a oneweek period to determine the space’s ambient noise levels in addition to other shortterm measurements at four locations. The firm’s analysis revealed that current ambient noise at the site is roughly 32 dBA to 61 dBA; for comparison, a library registers at 45 dBA, and a conversation from three feet away measures at roughly 65 dBA.
The firm also conducted acoustic modeling to gauge the impact on potential sound — including from trucks idling and back-up alarms — around the proposed project. Roughly 45 receptors were distributed
around the area to analyze the sound impact on local residents.
Wallace said that the continuous sources of sound for the project can be expected to measure between 30 dBA and 42 dBA at the closest residences. With idling trucks, that number moves to between 31 dBA and 42 dBA. The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection’s noise limit for the property is 42 dBA, based on a lowest ambient nighttime sound measured of
“The predicted total continuous sound levels comply with the MassDEP noise policy at each location,” Wallace’s presentation read. “The predicted sound levels from transient and intermittent backup alarms are consistent with sound levels from the regulated sound sources.”
The town contracted with Noise Control Engineering LLC for the peer review. The firm requested more information, but Tech Environmental’s con-
clusions remained unchanged.
Wallace, who said he has over 30 years experience in the air quality industry, spoke about the environmental impact of the project. According to Wallace, air emissions forecasts show that future diesel truck emissions will decrease from the current diesel emissions on the property. The building also includes several energy efficiency measures — including solar-panel-ready roofs and high-efficiency electric water storage tanks — that will exceed current Building Stretch Code requirements by up to 14%.
However, residents voiced their skepticism about the report.
Wallace said that trucks would not idle for more than five minutes, but several residents noted that they often see trucks idle for much longer, especially at nearby J&M Pizza, where some truck drivers take their lunch. Some drivers idle their truck while sleeping, residents said. Others said that the
project doesn’t seem to fit the town’s 2021 climate emergency declaration.
Residents also questioned whether topography, weather and Newton Pond would impact sound.
The meeting comes as a citizens’ petition will head to Shrewsbury’s Annual Town Meeting in May. Article 32, submitted by a group of residents, seeks to rezone the area from the Limited Industrial Zoning District to the Commercial Business Zoning District.
The zoning was changed to the Limited Industrial Zoning District at the 2020 Town Meeting. The record indicates that the zoning change achieved over the required supermajority of votes at the time.
The next meeting for the project is currently scheduled for May 2. The Planning Board indicated that traffic, light and stormwater would be points of discussion.
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – Now that funding to cover the repair project’s design costs has been approved, the Westborough Public Library is getting ready for the next phase.
The next phase includes identifying a space where the library could set up shop while repairs are underway.
According to Ed Baldwin, chair of the Library Building Committee, they hope to use “part of the community center building or the existing senior center.” Should that become possible, the library would save “substantially” on relocation costs, he said.
If no municipal space is available, the library would have to lease private space somewhere in town.
“At this point, we don’t know whether either building will be available, and that decision belongs to the Select
“ At this point, we don’t know whether either building will be available, and that decision belongs to the Select Board.
Ed Baldwin Chair, Library Building Committee
Board,” said Baldwin.
After Town Meeting turned down a project to renovate and expand the library in 2022, the Library Building Committee began plans for a repair project. The project will include restoring the windows; replacing the roof; replacing HVAC parts; replacing the lower floor carpet; adding restrooms; relocating the Teen Room; restoring the adult meeting rooms; and expanding local history storage.
Funding approved at the Annual Town Meeting in March — about $1.178 million — will pay for construction and bid documents that will be presented at the next town
That changes now. Introducing Signia Integrated Xperience with RealTime Conversation Enhancement. It’s the world’s first hearing aid that can identify, enhance, and track the location of multiple conversation partners in real time — even as they move — allowing you to catch every word and respond with ease.
meeting in 2025.
Funding for the actual construction, if approved, is estimated at $14 million.
The costs to move and relocate are part of the funding approved at the Annual Town Meeting in March.
In addition to the relocation itself, Baldwin said the committee will be deciding on the requirements for a temporary library and estimate how much time would be required to lease a private space should that become necessary.
View the committee’s agenda, meetings and project documents at https://www.westboroughlibrary.org/about/ repair-project/.
NORTHBOROUGH – As the families who have been staying at the Econo Lodge begin their journey for independent living, donations of household items are being sought.
Multiple families are getting ready to move into apartments. Requested items include blenders, coffee makers, air fryers, toasters, garbage cans, silverware sets, dinner plates,
cooking pots and pans, drinking glasses and kitchen towel sets. Donations should be new or gently used. The donations can be dropped off at room 110 in the Econo Lodge between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, room 109 between noon and 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, at the Northborough Police Station and/or at 47 Fisher St.
WESTBOROUGH – The footbridge at the Bowman Conservation Area, at the base of Upton Road, has been closed until further notice.
One of the structural timbers was found to have failed, leaving the footbridge in an unsafe condition.
The town is determining the costs to replace the footbridge, and the timeframe. In the meantime, the bridge will be dismantled and disposed of properly over the next few weeks. For more information, contact the Conservation Department at 508-366-3014.
By Kristen Remillard History Columnist
GRAFTON – You can take the man out of Grafton, but you can’t take Grafton out of the man … or can you? One notable person who grew up in Grafton and ran for the big city to pursue his dreams was poet Frank O’Hara.
O’Hara was born on March 27, 1926, and his life would begin, as it would remain in youth, secretive. His mother and father, Katherine Broderick and Russell O’Hara, who were devout Catholics, had conceived him out of wedlock. Not only were the two unmarried, Katherine was eight years younger than Russell and he was also Katherine’s English teacher in Worcester. The couple, who were now expecting O’Hara, decided to leave the Worcester area and move to Maryland to avoid judgment. His parents also led him and others to believe that he was born in June, after the couple became married.
The family eventually left Maryland and moved to 12 North Street in Grafton to help with Russell’s family farms and businesses. Though Frank’s heart was in the arts, he was very helpful and devoted to his parents, doing what was expected of him for his family. He was very hands on with his younger siblings while his mother struggled with mental illness.
In his late teens he joined the U.S. Navy to serve in World War II. The time he spent serving his country would pay off as he was able attend Harvard University on the GI Bill, where O’Hara began the study of music. Though he had a deep love for music, he would later change his study to English and earned an English degree by 1950. After Harvard he attended the University of Michigan until 1951 where he won the Hopwood Award and received his master’s degree in English. After completing his education O’Hara’s chance to start his new life in the big city arrived. He moved to New York and met his roommate and lover of 11 years, Joe LeSueur. O’Hara was far from the se -
cretive life he left behind and expressed himself freely. His poetry reflects the absolute freedom he embraced.
O’Hara’s work is discussed and debated amongst educators, artists and writers to this day. There is certainly much to be speculated about O’Hara’s writing as his poetry and opinions became extremely blunt. This was possibly the result of a man who was finally allowed to let loose, dropping all of his cares and worries away and the expectations of his family.
While in New York, O’Hara thrived in the art world, as a reviewer for ARTnews and working at the front desk at the Museum of Modern Art. He was described as a “writer amongst artists.” By 1960 he had become the curator for the painting and sculpture exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art. During his career in the art world he continued to write
poetry on the fly. People would find him writing on his lunch breaks, walking down the street, or sitting in a crowded room full of chatter. An establishment he frequented was the Cedar Tavern, described as a “dive bar” where he enjoyed listening to the bickering and chatter of the local artists as he wrote.
O’Hara was living the dream
as his true authentic self, working in the art world, writing poetry and even trying his hand at a short play (“Try! Try!”). After bailing on a “failed” novel, it is said that he had written about 100 poems which he scattered amongst his belongings, never to be read. Socially he was wellliked and respected by friends and peers. In the summer of 1959, he would meet the love of his life, Vincent Warren. The poem “Having a Coke With You” was written for Warren. Life was good for O’Hara but tragedy struck in midlife. In the early morning hours of July 24, 1966, he was hit by a jeep while on the beach on Fire Island with his friends. The very next day, O’Hara died as a result of his injuries from the accident. He was only 40 years old at the time of his death.
Thanks to Joe Kuras and Jayne Wilson of the Grafton Historical Society, authors of “A Grafton Chronicle,” which provided some of the information for this column.
Keller Williams Realty
Boston-MetroWest
Member: KW Luxury Homes
Mobile: (508) 294-0778
I’ll Make It Happen. You’ll Make It Home.
By Jennifer Juliano
Buying or selling a house is truly one of your largest investments. Having the right allied partners with you every step of the way is key to making sure that you’re covered. With many media outlets adding spins and misleading information about agency relationships, here is a brief outline of what you need to know. It does not cover everything relating to agency nor property disclosures, I only have so much space to write.
You see a house listed for sale with a real estate brokerage and call the number on the sign. They are the sellers’ agent, or commonly called, “the listing agent”. Said listing agent works solely for the seller. To partially quote directly from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ Mandatory
Agency Disclosure: “The agent owes the seller client undivided loyalty, reasonable care, disclosure, obedience to lawful instruction, confidentiality and accounting. The agent must put the seller’s interests first and attempt to negotiate price and terms acceptable to their seller client”.
Some of God’s children are just too busy. Even if you are extremely busy in the service of the Lord but are not supported by the power of faithful prayer while you work, you run the risk of complete breakdown and burnout of your spiritual life. You cannot fulfill your spiritual
Prayer
In short, they are paid by the seller to represent, you got it, the seller. Now picture yourself as a buyer, maybe new to the process, new to the area, or just first time in a long time. Why would you not want to have someone on your side who is experienced to help represent you and your interests? The wording on that agency disclosure is similar for a buyer agency disclosure, just insert word “buyer” instead of “seller”. Recently I attended an open house where the actual listing agent was hosting. I bring that up because the listing agent may not always be the one hosting; sometimes, it may be another agent in their firm. A busy open house, and as I was showing the property to my own clients, I overheard the other set of buyers say to the listing agent, “we’d like to make an offer through you so we can save money”. The listing agent told them flat out: “no, you need to get a buyer agent,
my sellers and I do not want me to do dual or seller agency, nor would you save money”. Dual agency can get sticky, and someone often ends up feeling slighted and unrepresented, frankly, because they are. The agent referred them to someone outside of her firm, and time will tell what happens with that buyer. Could she have done dual agency? Sure, if everyone agreed. Could she have sold the house as a seller agent directly? Yes. Did I silently applaud her for not agreeing to it? Also yes. Not because of me or my buyers, who didn’t pursue the house for other reasons, but because I’ve witnessed occasions where buyers left themselves unrepresented through the years when all they had to do was get their own agent to help them ask the questions or terms that a seller agent could not do on their behalf.
Whether you pay an experienced buyer agent yourself, or if they are compensated by the listing brokerage, it’s in your best interest overall to have someone guiding you and working on your behalf. An experienced agent will know the questions to ask, how to navigate situations that could or do arise, and help you the whole way home.
Town Meeting | from page 1
proved an article for $70,000 to paint the station, which was based on an estimate from a painting company. Charpentier said that staff went to the site with a different contractor to look at the conditions, which ultimately indicated that the siding wouldn’t support paint.
Charpentier said the town hired an architect and a professional cost estimator to come up with a cost to remove the clapboard and install a new vapor barrier and siding — either vinyl or clapboard — along with PVC trim. A detailed estimate for $540,000 was put together, including $470,000 from free cash and $70,000 from the 2023 article.
“I know and understand that half a million dollars to side the police station sounds absurd. This is a prevailing wage project. This cost estimator provides professional services specifically to architects,” Charpentier said. “I’m a civil engineer. Preparing an estimate for a building envelope is well outside my area of expertise. This is directly these persons’ area of expertise.”
According to Chief Brian Griffin, the station was occupied in 1988. The same architect and builder constructed the station in Auburn, and Griffin said he thought they were experiencing similar issues.
He said he worried about the state of the station for a couple of different reasons, including about potential future water damage and exposure to the equipment housed in the station.
“We need this building watertight. We need it sealed. We just need to get it done. I’m sorry for the price,” said Griffin.
Charpentier said his hope was that the project would come in “well under,” adding that there were options through the public procurement process to have a base bid and bid alternates.
Residents voiced concerns about the cost during Town Meeting. Gib Chase called it an “exorbitant” and “exaggerated” price, saying there wasn’t an emergency or safety issue.
The Select Board hasn’t evaluated it and the residents haven’t had input, Chase said.
“I think before this goes out to bid — you might say
it’s going to come in under that, but we’re committing to $540,000. I don’t think that’s fair,” Chase said. He called for further meetings.
Resident Doug Stone made an amendment to lower the appropriation to $200,000. Combined with the article from 2023, this would result
in a total appropriation of $270,000.
Town Meeting approved the amendment, 196-98. Ultimately, the article was approved, 225-45.
Other articles
Article 19 was the last article deliberated on April 22. Earlier that night, voters ap -
proved a replacement of the Northborough Fire Department’s rescue pumper, two new police cruisers and a series of budgetary articles.
Town Meeting was set to resume on April 23 after the Community Advocate went to press. With a total of 65 articles on the warrant, voters were set to deliberate on
a number of topics, including MBTA zoning, the acquisition of 432 Whitney St., combining the health and human services department and a citizens’ petition to disband the Design Review Committee.
For further coverage of Town Meeting, visit communityadvocate.com or check out next week’s paper.
By Evan Walsh Reporter
SHREWSBURY – Flooding on Route 20 may soon be a thing of the past.
On April 10, Governor Maura Healey’s office announced that Shrewsbury and Worcester had been awarded $3.7 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation for the Route 20 and Grafton Street Interchange Project.
The grant, which was awarded as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, represents 80% of the total project costs.
“This award is a gamechanger for Worcester and Shrewsbury. We need to act now on critical transportation infrastructure projects like this, which will provide urgently needed relief for communities impacted by flooding and strengthen resilience,” said Healey. “We are grateful for the support of leaders in Worcester and Shrewsbury, our congressional delegation and the Biden-Harris administration for helping us deliver on this project and others that will benefit generations to come.”
The area has a history of flooding, which often results in road closures, delays, safety concerns, and vehicle damage. Much of the existing drainage infrastructure was built in the 1930s and is unable to sufficiently drain the highly developed watershed. The area experiences serious flooding roughly 10 times per year, and in 2021 an incident led to several vehicles becoming disabled and passengers needed the assistance of first responders to safely get to dry land.
Preventing flooding is an opportunity to improve water quality and increase transportation infrastructure’s climate resilience while supporting projected growth in Central Massachusetts, a press release stated.
“Shrewsbury’s newly adopted Climate Action and Resiliency Plan notes the need to prepare for the current and coming impacts of climate change including flooding, which happens often along this section of Route 20,” said Select Board Chair Beth Casavant. “With increased commercial and residential development, this funding will
make our community safer by modernizing aging infrastructure to meet the challenges of today’s climate. State and local partnerships like this lead to better outcomes for all.”
Through this project, a dedicated trunk line and numerous new drainage inlets will be installed, including improvements to existing drainage infrastructure. These improvements will increase the ability of the low-lying area to drain during storm events, greatly reducing flooding frequency and duration. A stilling basin will also be
“
Shrewsbury’s newly adopted Climate Action and Resiliency Plan notes the need to prepare for the current and coming impacts of climate change including flooding.
Beth Casavant Select Board Chair
added at the outfall location, which includes both existing and proposed outfalls, to reduce the potential for soil
erosion.
“Roadway flooding stops commuters from getting to work, kids from getting to
school, and emergency vehicles from providing assistance,” said Congressman Jim McGovern. “This investment of $3.7 million in federal funding will allow MassDOT to replace and expand the outdated drainage system for the Route 20 and Grafton St. interchange in Worcester. I know this section of road is prone to flooding, and thanks to the passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, passed by House Democrats, overseen by Secretary Buttigieg, and signed into law by President Biden, we got this done.”
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – It was a roadshow stop fueled by sustainable, recycled lithium-ion batteries.
On Tuesday, April 16, Gov. Maura Healey and Economic Development Secretary Yvonne Hao visited Ascend Elements on
Flanders Road. It was a part of a roadshow to highlight Healey’s proposed economic development bill, the Mass Leads Act, which she filed on March 1.
The bill proposes a new 10year climate tech initiative to make Massachusetts the world’s leader in climate innovation.
“Ascend is the story of what
SOUTHBOROUGH – Southborough residents who are 55 and older have been mailed a survey to assess the Senior Center’s services for both the senior population and people who will soon join the demographic.
The survey will be an opportunity for seniors to weigh in on programs and services at the Senior Center, and, for younger residents, it will be an introduction to what the center offers in terms of activities and services. The survey will also be
a chance for residents to share their ideas on what types of programs they would like to be offered.
If you live in Southborough and are 55 or older and did not receive a survey, one can be picked up at the Senior Center. Responses will be anonymous. Surveys must be returned to the Senior Center’s office or by mailing Southborough Senior Center, 9 Cordaville Road, Southborough, MA 01772 by April 30, 2024.
How did you realize your fondness for senior tness?
I have always had a special connection with seniors, they have been the most rewarding to work with because they appreciate my passion for health & tness as they are more focused on improving their everyday function to maintain their independence.
What inspires you about the residents in your programs?
Its really the ‘age is just a number’ attitude. ey know their bodies continue to change as they age but they are so determined to work hard to be the best versions of themselves at this stage in their lives.
Is it fun to work with seniors?
Of course it is! is population has truly lived life so they have so much to teach us, if we just listen and observe how they use even a little progress as a sense of purpose to continue to motivate themselves.
makes Massachusetts awesome,” said Hao.
“The company started right here in Massachusetts. It received initial funding from the state,” said Healey.
Ascend uses a patented technology to recycle used batteries and production scraps, and it produces new cathode materials that go into new electric vehicle (EV) batteries.
According to information
provided by Ascend, the cathode is the most valuable part of any lithium-ion battery, and it is manufactured primarily in Asia. Ascend not only manufactures cathodes in the U.S., but its process helps reduce carbon emissions by 50%.
The company was founded in 2015; it currently employs 150 in the state, and 400 employees around the world. Ascend has a plant in Georgia, and is build-
ing facilities in Kentucky and Poland.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to make batteries more sustainable,” said Ascend Elements CEO Mike O’Kronley. “This is a technology that needs to go global.”
“Ascend knows no bounds,” said Healey. “This is the future.”
For information about Ascend Elements, visit https:// ascendelements.com/
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
GRAFTON – On Saturday, April 20, families came to the Common to help clean up the town.
Sponsored by the Grafton Garden Club, the main event had those who preregistered stop by to pick up yellow trash bags. They could also pick up coffee and donuts courtesy of Grafton UniBank; and they could receive coupons for free pizza from Pepperoni Express and a soft-serve cone from Swirls and Scoops.
Cleanup participants could also choose a free red oak or white dogwood sapling, courtesy of the Department of Public Works.
After that, they returned to their neighborhoods to pick up trash. Before too long, big yellow bags full of refuse awaited pickup by the Department of Public Works.
Despite some morning rain, organizers said the event was a success.
“It was better [than what
we expected],” said Deborah Graham, club president. In addition to the cleanup, those visiting the Common could learn more about re -
cycling, pick up some seeds from Touchstone Community School and say hello to some alpacas from Angel Hair Alpaca Farm in North Grafton.
Plant Sale and Raffle
The Garden Club will return to the Common on Saturday, May 11, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for its annual plant sale and raffle.
There will be annuals, perennials, vegetables, herbs, butterfly and pollinator plants, house plants, a raffle and a bake sale.
In addition, the club will have its line of gardeners’ ware merchandise available. Sweatshirts, T-shirts, hoodies, hats and mugs, all with the Grafton Garden Club logo, also are available online. Check out what’s available at https://grafton-garden-club.square.site/.
NORTHBOROUGH – Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for its 38th annual School/Business Partnership Golf Tournament.
The tournament will be held on June 13 at Juniper Hill Golf Course. It brings together corporate and small business leaders from Worcester to Boston for a day of golf.
Proceeds from the tournament will benefit the chamber’s scholarship program for high school seniors and fosters business development programs for chamber members.
Registration opens at 8 a.m., and the tournament kicks off at 9 a.m. A scramble style golf tournament, it will include 18 holes, a cart, light breakfast and coffee, boxed lunch, one complementary beer or wine, complimentary non-alcoholic drinks, air cannon shot, a BBQ reception, hole-in-one contests, a live auction, raffle prizes and cash prizes for the first, second and third place team.
A single golfer will cost $190, and a foursome is $760. For more information, visit https://www.corridornine.org/.
MARLBOROUGH – Mentors from the NASA HUNCH (High School Students United with NASA to Create Hardware) program recently visited Assabet Valley advanced manufacturing students
On April 2, NASA HUNCH
mentors Florence Gold and Bill Gibson met with the advanced manufacturing students who participate in the program. Students in the program built four parts of a cube satellite that will hold testing and data collection components
on satellites launched from the International Space Station.
Cube satellites or CubeSats are small box-shaped satellites that are launched into orbit to observe the Earth, for scientific investigations, new technology demonstrations and advanced mission concepts.
Students and faculty were proud of their work and accomplishments, as Assabet is the first school in the program to make parts for NASA that will leave the International Space Station and go into orbit.
“I couldn’t be more proud of myself. This has been such a positive and challenging experience,” said Assabet senior Marcos Zengotita, who worked directly on the cube satellite. “This process has been so fun, and knowing that the parts we made are going into space is really awesome. I couldn’t be more thankful for this opportunity.”
During the visit, to commemorate their participation in the HUNCH program students and teachers had the opportunity to sign a NASA locker that will be used in the International Space Station. All students across Massachusetts who participate in the HUNCH program will sign the locker.
“It is nice that the students get recognition for the hard work they put in. This is a hard trade. A lot of people don’t know what manufacturing is and we have the opportunity to use new technology and be able to create precision parts for NASA,” said advanced
manufacturing instructor David Sommerville. “The fact that students are able to make parts that are going up to the International Space Station is awesome to see. It prepares them for the industry and gives them the confidence for jobs after they leave Assabet. If they can do it for NASA, they can do it for a local company as well.”
Gold and Gibson also spoke to students about the importance of the work they are doing in their advanced manufacturing classes and how this is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be able to say something with their name on it has traveled to space.
“This was truly a wonderful experience for our students. The pride they had when they were able to sign their name
on the locker and speak with Flo and Bill was surreal to see,” said Superintendent Ernest Houle. “The HUNCH program is a great opportunity for students to work on their skills and build confidence in the trade.”
HUNCH is an instructional partnership between NASA and local school districts. Students are tasked with creating cost-effective hardware and soft goods in collaboration with HUNCH team members.
The HUNCH program works with more than 500 school districts in 46 states. HUNCH projects cover six areas: culinary; design and prototyping; design for flight; hardware; soft goods; video and media.
For information, visit https://nasahunch.com/.
MARLBOROUGH – The clothing and textile students of Marlborough High School will present their annual fashion show of student work to be held on Wednesday, May 1, at 7 p.m. in the high school’s little theater.
The theme of the show is “Fashion Frenzy: A Look at Events That Beckon the Paparazzi,” and it is destined to please an audience of all ages.
All fashions being modeled in the show will be the creations of the students in the clothing classes at the high school. Garments range from lounge wear to evening wear, and they include everything in between. Clothing will be modeled by the students themselves, family members and members of the community as well.
Admission is free, and the public is invited to attend.
For more information, please contact Roberta Collins at Marlborough High School, 508-460-3500.
lections available for attendees.
“[The event] also changes the attitude because some people have the mindset that the senior center is an ‘old folks’ home.’ That’s not what this is.
By Evan Walsh Reporter
SHREWSBURY – On April 16, the Shrewsbury Senior Center opened its doors to the community for a “Generations Chill and Thrill.”
Beyond the delicious and free root beer floats, the event featured outdoor patio games and an opportunity for residents from different generations to socialize and learn more about the Senior Center.
“We’re trying to get more intergenerational engagement. We knew it was April Vacation week, and there’s beautiful weather. We’re trying to get
grandparents to bring their grandkids in, or parents to bring their children over and have some fun… We want people to take advantage of the nice weather and have a root beer float,” Council on Aging Assistant Director Casey Bogan told the Community Advocate.
“It’s important for everyone to be connected, take care of each other and know that the community is here to support them too. It’s an opportunity to learn about the lovely Senior Center,” she added.
Bogan and Pat Babin, who helped organize the event, had everything accounted for. Bogan and Babin had plenty of se-
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
GRAFTON – When residents head to Town Meeting on Monday, May 13, they will consider a budget for fiscal 2025 that will be approximately a 3.75% increase over fiscal 2024.
According to Town Administrator Evan Brassard, the town dealt with several challenges while putting together the budget, from unpredictable state aid to cost increases in insurance and waste hauling.
“Our FY25 budget is well along in the process,” said Brassard. “While it is a lean year, there are only a few changes … on the municipal side of the budget. There are no decreases or impacts to services provided to residents.”
The town’s total budget is $77,498,363 for fiscal 2025. Just over $45 million is to fund Grafton Public Schools; the $1.3 mil-
lion increase over the 2024 fiscal year is attributed to salary and wage increases.
The 2025 fiscal budget will mark the fifth and final year that the town will expend funds from the 2019 override.
“For FY26, it remains to be seen whether we need an override, but projections point to that being more and more likely,” said Brassard. “We are refining the five-year projections now in light of current FY25 funding and will look to have the entire package, including upcoming commercial and housing growth, in July.”
Capital requests
As part of the proposed budget for fiscal 2025 are 31 capital requests, totaling $2.03 million.
The requests will include: DPW – John Deere tractor with roadside brush cutter –$189,000 Budget | 20
By getting intergenerational people here, they get to see the activities and see that these people are not in rocking chairs. They are active, intelligent people,” said Babin.
The Hudson Select Board will hold a public hearing on an application to transfer, an All Alcohol Package Store License, from RJ Inc d/b/a Hudson Wine & Spirits to One Stop Hudson Liquor, Inc. d/b/a Hudson Wine & Spirits, Mayank Gupta, Manager, said License located at 66 Broad Street, Hudson, MA 01749. The Hearing will be held at the Town of Hudson Police Department located at 911 Municipal Drive, Hudson, MA 01749 on Monday, May 20, 2024 at 7:00PM. For more information call 978562-9963.
Notice is hereby given by Ted’s of Fayville, 300 Turnpike Road., Southborough, MA 01772, pursuant to the provisions of G.L. c. 255, section 39A, that on Wednesday May 1, 2024 at 10 am an auction sale on the web based site of http://sta.ibidsmart.com the following motor vehicles will be sold to satisfy our garage keeper’s lien thereon for storage, towing charges, care and expenses of notices and sale of said vehicles. Starting April 20, 2024 at 9 am, vehicles can be viewed at http:// sta.ibidsmart.com.
This is not an absolute auction we reserve the right to set a minimum on all auction vehicles. If a particular vehicle is not listed on http://sta.ibidsmart.com call 508-485-0503 for bidding instructions.
2014 Ford F150
VIN: 1FTFX1EF1EFA34834
Owned by Mahmud Sahin
2012 Buick LaCrosse
VIN:1G4GD5E33CF208602
Owned by Candida De Jesus C Correia
2013 Toyota Highlander
Vin: 5TDDK3EHXDS244771
Owned by Marlon Brando Calderon Portes
2015 Ford Mustang
VIN: 1FA6P8TH7F5313442
Owned by Brianna Mitchell
Babin noted that for many people, the Senior Center is a “home away from home.”
Bath Busters helped the Senior Center purchase the root beer, according to Bogan.
Robyn Ramsey
2020 Peace Star AR50 Scooter VIN: LEHPCB22XLR808249
Owned by John Doe
2006 Honda Accord VIN: 1HGCM56486A107665
Owned by Nancy M Jimenez Campos
2011 Jeep Patriot VIN: 1J4NF1GB4BD115028
Owned by Amanda M Molina
2010 Honda Accord VIN: 1HGCP2F86AA117709
Owned by Bryam Calderon Portes
2005 Honda Accord VIN: 1HGCM56485A052049
Owned by Griselda C Robles De Leon This notice has been given under the provisions of G.L. c. 255, Section 39A. Publication Friday April 12,19 and 26 2024 Community Advocate.
CITY OF MARLBOROUGH CONSERVATION COMMISSION
NOTICE OF INTENT NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Notice is hereby given that the Marlborough Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on May 2, 2024, at 7:00 PM at Marlborough City Hall, 140 Main St. on the 3rd Floor Memorial Hall.
New England Innovation Academy proposes to build a 30,000 SF new sports building and high school turf field at 280 Locke Drive. Work is near wetlands.
Plans and other information will be available in the Conservation Commission office at City Hall Monday thru Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, (508)4603768. All interested persons are invited to the public hearing.
Edward Clancy Conservation Commission Chairman
CITY OF MARLBOROUGH CONSERVATION COMMISSION REQUEST FOR DETERMINATION OF APPLICABILITY
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Notice is hereby given that the Marlborough Conservation Commission will
hold a public hearing on May 2, 2024, at 7:00 PM at Marlborough City Hall, 140 Main St. on the 3rd Floor Memorial Hall.
The Overlook at Lake Williams proposes to do drainage improvements behind units 70-76 at Ice House Landing. Work is near wetlands.
Plans and other information will be available in the Conservation Commission office at City Hall Monday thru Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, (508)4603768. All interested persons are invited to the public hearing.
Edward Clancy Conservation Commission Chairman
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY PUBLIC HEARING
Notice is hereby given that Parth Patel of Shrewsbury Burritos LLC, d/b/a Moe’s Southwest Grill, 16 N. Quinsigamond Avenue, has applied to the Select Board for a common victualler license. The proposed hours of operation are 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM Sunday through Monday.
A public hearing on this application will be held on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at 7:10 PM, Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, Selectmen’s Meeting Room, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.
Beth N. Casavant, Chair Select Board
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY PUBLIC HEARING
Notice is hereby given that John Cayer of PARL2 LLC, d/b/a Premier Auto Repair, 431-433 Boston Turnpike, has applied to the Select Board for Class II and Garage Licenses. The proposed hours of operation are 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday, and 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM on Saturday.
A public hearing on this application will be held on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at 7:05 PM, Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, Selectmen’s Meeting Room, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.
Beth N. Casavant, Chair Select Board
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).
Adams, Barbara of Westborough Albrizio, Michaelyn formerly of Grafton Caldwell, Lynne of Westborough Callaghan, Richard formerly of Marlborough DeMaria, Edward formerly of Hudson Feltman, Michael of Shrewsbury Gould, Carole formerly of Southborough
Carole Gould, 90
HINSDALE, NH - Carole (Batchelder) Gould, 90, former resident of Southboro Massachusetts, passed away peacefully with the love of family by her side on January 2, 2024. More recently, Carole resided at various times in Hinsdale, Keene, and Stoddard New Hampshire.
Mrs. Gould is survived by her children Fred Batchelder and his wife, Pat, of Gilsum, NH, and James Gould and his wife, Kim, of Wesley, Maine. She is also survived by her sisters Joan Bartlett of Fayville, MA and Marjorie Ann Goad and her husband, Steven, of Ware, MA. She also leaves behind a grandchild, Adam Carlin, and his wife, Margaret, of Augusta, WV along with many cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Carole is predeceased by her parents; and her grandchild, Luke Carlin, who passed away in 2011.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a future date. Cheshire Family Funeral Home and Crematories of Swanzey NH assisted the family.
JoAnne Ricardi, 91
FLAGLER, FL - JoAnne (Stone) Ricardi, 91, formerly of Westborough MA and Lancaster NH, passed away Tuesday March 5, 2024, at her home in Flagler Beach, FL. Beloved wife, mom and nana, she is survived by her beloved husband in 72 years of marriage Richard Ricardi; their four children, daughters Debra Trainor (John), Cynthia Tefft, and sons Christian Ri-
Hayes, Kenneth of Southborough Korpi, Eileen of Shrewsbury Langelier, Daniel of Marlborough Martin, Marie of Hudson O’Connor, Inge of Shrewsbury Ricardi, JoAnne formerly of Westborough Sakovich, Helen of Shrewsbury St. Pierre Sr., Donald of North Grafton Tripp, Terrance of Westborough Wheeler, Joseph of Northborough Ziolkowski, Fredric of Grafton
cardi (Julie), Richard A Ricardi (Tara); 11 grandchildren and families Mylinda, Erika and Brendan Tefft, Aaron, Sandra and Jesse Ricardi, Forrest and Adelle Trainor, Caleb, Ethan and Nathaniel Ricardi, 3 greatgrandchildren; and loving neighbors and friends.
Born August 12, 1932, JoAnne grew up in Lancaster NH, daughter of Reynald C. and Bessie M. (Reed) Stone. She was predeceased by brothers Robert and Theodore Roby, and recently by cousins Rey John Stone and Doris (Stone) Bergeron. Cousin Carol (Stone) Bailey and husband Ronald survive her.
Memorial services were held in FL immediately after her passing. Services in MA to follow.
Edward W. DeMaria, 80
AUSTIN, TX - Edward W. DeMaria, 80, of Austin, TX, formerly of Hudson passed away Saturday, April 13, 2024. Edward was born in Marlborough and raised in Hudson, and graduated from Hudson Catholic High School in 1962.
He leaves his daughter Kristen Piso, son-in-law Christopher Piso, and granddaughters Cianna and Kallia Piso, of Hudson; sister Mary Ferro and brother-in-law Armand Ferro of Arizona; his nephews and cousins. He is predeceased by his parents Edward L. DeMaria and Mary DeMaria(Shusta).
Edward resided in Austin but enjoyed making nostalgic trips home to Hudson to see his granddaughters, and enjoy the beach and fried clams on
MARLBOROUGH - Daniel F. Langelier, 77, lifelong resident of Marlborough, MA, died on Wednesday, April 17, 2024 at Beaumont Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation of Westborough, MA. He leaves his wife of 50 years Stephanie N. (Hamalainen) Langelier of Marlborough, MA.
Besides his wife, Daniel leaves two sons, David M. Langelier of Marlborough, MA, and Timothy D. Langelier of Thompsons Station, TN; and his two grandchildren, Andrew and Emmett Langelier, both of Thompsons Station, TN; his brother Peter Langelier and his wife Nancy of Marlborough, MA, two sisters, Ellen Bonetti of Marlborough, MA and Maryanne Ethier and her husband Thomas of Hudson, MA. Daniel was preceded in death by this brother-in-law Ernest Bonetti. He also leaves two sisters-in-law, Margaret Hammons and Helen Hamalainen, both of Rutland, MA along with many nieces, nephews. He also leaves two lifelong friends Jim and Ellen Poirier, Richard and Mary Lee King and other relatives and many friends.
Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted with arrangements.
Barbara E. Adams, 100
WESTBOROUGH - Barbara E. Adams, 100, of Westborough, entered into rest on Sunday, April 14, 2024 at her home at Whitney Suites, The Willows. She was the wife of the late Bertis H. Adams and was adored by her large circle of family and friends.
She is survived by daughter Lois J. Shaevel and her husband, William, of Jamaica Plain and son Fredric D. (Rick) Bloom of Manhattan, stepdaughter Barrie Montross and her husband, John, of Burlington, VT, and step-daughter-inlaw Ryan Adams of Norwich,
Scan QR code to read all of this week’s obituaries on our website.
VT, eight grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by stepson Bertis H. (Woody) Adams III. Barbara leaves grandchildren Jordana Estner of Portland, OR; Hillary Estner and partner Kyle Harris of Denver, CO; Jake Estner and wife Alissa Darsa of Jamaica Plain, MA; Matthew Montross and fiancée Peggy Rost of Portland, OR; Benjamin Montross and wife Kathryn of Montpelier, VT; Michael Adams and partner Kristen Correnti of McLean, VA; Tony Adams and wife Jackie Lin of Hong Kong; and Joshue Adams and wife Amanda Vinson of Orinda, CA. Great grandchildren are Phoenix Estner-Harris, Aurora Darsa, and James, William, Robert, Thomas, Helen, Eleanor, and Margaret Adams.
Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
Michael A. Feltman, 57
SHREWSBURY - Michael A. “Mike” Feltman, 57, of Shrewsbury, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, April 11, 2024. He leaves his beloved wife, Joan M. (Botelho) Feltman; their loving children, Allison Feltman, of Nashville, TN, and Ryan Feltman, of Shrewsbury; his devoted father, Donald Feltman; devoted in-laws, Michael Botelho LTC(R) and Elaine Botelho, of Mattapoisett; his brother, Scott Feltman and his wife Stacey, of Frisco, TX; his brother-in-law, Michael Botelho, of Upton; sister-in-law, Angela Botelho Jamison and her husband Kevin Jamison, of Waynesboro, PA and brotherin-law, Mark Botelho and his wife Joan Vivaldelli-Botelho, of Milton. Michael was loved by his aunts, Francine Boyer, Sandra Feltman Coughlin, and Shirley Feltman Moore; uncles, Kevin Coughlin, and Michael Moore; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousin-in-law in the extended Botelho family who all genuinely loved Michael. He also leaves his cherished nieces, Chloe, Amelie, Callie, Gabriella, Clara, Kate, and Hannah, and nephews, Alex, and Cole.
He leaves behind an amaz-
ing core friend group from Waltham. He cherished all his friends and coworkers. Knowing all of you made him so happy. Michael loved you all! Michael was beyond happy to have met Connor MacDowell and meeting the MacDowell family was a blessing.
The Britton-Shrewsbury Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
NORTHBOROUGH - Michaelyn “Mickey” L. (Scheve) Albrizio, 90, passed away on Thursday, April 11, 2024, while surrounded by loving family at Whitney Place in Northborough. She is reunited with her husband of sixtyseven years, Joseph T. Albrizio, who died in 2021.
Mickey is survived by her two daughters, Diane M. Grenier and her husband Christopher, and Donna J. Albrizio; two grandchildren, Gina Marie Wood and her husband Jeff, and Christopher Grenier, Jr. and his wife Christine; three great grandchildren, Lukas Wood, Charlotte and Everett Grenier; several nieces nephews, and cousins. Sadly, she and Joe experienced a loss that no parent should have to bear when their sons Thomas and Joseph Jr., predeceased them.
The family has entrusted Mercadante Funeral Home, Worcester.
SHREWSBURY - Helen Sakovich, 72, of Shrewsbury and formerly of Worcester passed away on Friday March 29, 2024 in the comfort of her home.
Helen was born in Worcester, a daughter of the late Jack and Eva (Osak) Sakovich.
Helen is survived by two sisters, Ann Lilla of Worcester, Ma, and Sonia Sakovich of Virginia.
Henry – Dirsa Funeral Service of Worcester is assisting the family.
Budget | from page 17
Police Department – landscape slope in front of the station, install sidewalk – $35,000; replace two police cruisers – $122,000; taser replacement – $21,000
Fire Department – lease on Engine 3 – $104,000; replace Engine 1 – $140,000; replace Engine 10 – $275,000
Grafton Public Schools – ceiling fan at Millbury Street Elementary School – $28,000; ceiling tile replacement at North Street Elementary School – $50,000; fire alarm panel replacement at Millbury Street – $50,000; key project, phase II – $$68,000; kitchen grease trap replacement, North Street – $16,000; PA replacement, Grafton Middle
School – $60,000; PA system upgrade, Grafton High School – $36,000; PA system upgrade, Millbury Street – $56,000; PA system upgrade, North Grafton Elementary School –$40,000; PA system, North Street – $30,000; PA system upgrade, South Grafton Elementary School – $70,000; redesign main entryway, North Street – $90,000; repair of walkway, high school – $50,000; repave playground, North Grafton – $110,000; replace bathroom stalls, North Street – $16,000; shades at North Grafton – $45,000 Highway Department – replace 1-ton dump truck/rack body – $90,000; replace truck 21 – $70,000; zero turn mower and bagger – $16,000
crouleau@bjs.com,
Marlborough, MA
Marlborough,
project teams. Bachelor’s degree plus 5 yrs. exp. in a Business Analyst role.
Qualified Applicants send resume to:
Chris Rouleau, crouleau@bjs.com 350 Campus Drive, Marlborough, MA 01752 Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.
Cemetery and Parks Department – replacement of 2016 Ferris mower – $16,000
Planning Board – MVP 2.0 Planning Process – $45,000; Open Space and Recreation Plan and ADA Self-Evaluation and Transition Plan Update – $25,000
Fire Station – Fire Station 3 upgrades – $100,000
Town Administrator – office furniture replacement –$30,000
Annual Town Meeting will convene on Monday, May 13, at 7 p.m. in the high school auditorium.
The complete budget book is available via www. grafton-ma.gov.
Nitto Denko Avecia, Inc., Senior SAP Program Manager, Milford, MA: Strategy, design devlpmnt, & delivery of SAP apps in support of all major aspects of the business. Req: Bach. degree in Comp. Sci., Comp. Info. Systs., IT, or a rel field, & 5 yrs’ progressive, post-baccalaureate exp in the job offered or any rel occ, to incl 5 yrs’ exp in Leading Implementation teams & delivering solutns; 5 yrs’ exp w/ creating & deliverg integrated solutns consisting of SAP & non-SAP apps; 5 yrs’ exp in mnging & delivering SAP ECC & S/4HANA project; 5 yrs’ exp working w/ various SAP business areas/modules (MM, PP, FICO, SD, QM); & 5 yrs’ exp working w/SDLC, SAP ASAP & SAP Activate implementation methodology/framework. Remote work from anywhere in the U.S. is permitted. Emp will accept any suitable combo of edu, exp, and training. Exp may have been gained concurrently. Interested individuals should apply online at https:// avecia.com/careers using keywords “Senior SAP Program Manager.”
Shrewsbury
Thursday, April 11
9:01 a.m. Flint Pond Cir. Animal complaint.
10:53 a.m. Point Rd. Fire assist.
1:21 p.m. Arrested, Emily Victoria Alden, 20, of 165 Worthington Ave., Shrewsbury, for larceny from person, A&B, shoplifting by asportation, disorderly conduct, possession Class B substance, tampering or destruction of evidence, intimidate witness, possession Class C substance, warrant.
Friday, April 12
2:09 p.m. Heywood St. Threats.
2:27 p.m. Wheeler Rd. Animal complaint.
3:21 p.m. Elma Cir. Animal complaint.
4:34 p.m. Dalphen Rd. Larceny.
5:23 p.m. Grafton St. Road hazard – trees/wires/debris.
6:00 p.m. Wadsworth Rd. Larceny.
Saturday, April 13
3:45 a.m. Shrewsbury Green Dr. Harassment.
8:53 a.m. Crescent St. B&E motor vehicle.
9:50 a.m. Lake St. Animal complaint.
12:13 p.m. Arrested , Teresa Lynn Bracken, 57, of 69 Stoney Hill Rd., Shrewsbury, for OUI
liquor 2nd offense, resisting arrest.
2:10 p.m. Rawson Hill Dr. Larceny.
Sunday, April 14
1:38 a.m. Boston Tpke. Assaults.
12:56 p.m. Shrewsbury Green Dr. Harassment.
Monday, April 15
8:55 a.m. Avalon Way. Identity theft.
Tuesday, April 16
8:01 a.m. Hill St. Illegal dumping.
1:33 p.m. Arrested , Desiree Lynn Labouef, 33, of 99 E Central St., Apt. 3, Worcester, for shoplifting by asportation 3rd offense, possession Class B substance.
3:43 p.m. Arrested , Lynette Marie McGrann, 59, of 7 Bridgets Way, Lakeville, for oper MV with license suspended/revoked, use electronic device while operating MV, warrant.
4:55 p.m. Lake St. Identity theft.
8:45 p.m. Arrested, Joseph T. Nascimento-Silva, 20, of 189 Lincoln St., Apt. 3, Worcester, for unlicensed operation of MV, speeding, warrant.
Friday, April 5
12:45 a.m. Research Dr./Connector Rd. Road/tree.
7:34 a.m. W Main/Ruggles Sts. AC, animal assist.
1:14 p.m. Arrested, Godwin Vincent Effiong, 34, of 475 Boston Tpke., Apt. 5, Shrewsbury, on warrant.
6:01 p.m. West St. AC, animal unleashed.
Saturday, April 6
9:16 a.m. Nourse St. AC, animal unleashed.
7:37 p.m. Summer St. Accident – hit & run.
8:06 p.m. Orchard Hill Dr. Bur-
glary/breaking & entering.
Sunday, April 7
3:43 p.m. Valente Dr. Erratic operator.
4:57 p.m. Arrested, Aubrey L. Lord, 44, of 129 E Main St., Apt. 312, Westborough, on default warrant.
8:59 p.m. E Main St. Erratic operator.
Marlborough
Wednesday, April 10
11:54 a.m. Applebriar Ln. Harassment.
3:18 p.m. Lafayette Dr. Erratic operator.
7:25 p.m. Stone Gate Apartments/Silver Leaf Way. Harassment.
8:53 p.m. Ridgewood Condominiums/Bolton St. Fraud/forgery.
Thursday, April 11
12:43 a.m. Gates Ave. B&E into MV.
10:02 a.m. Devens St. Fraud/ forgery.
4:41 p.m. Academy Knoll Apts/ Broad St. Harassment.
Friday, April 12
11:23 a.m. Whitcomb School/ Union St. Threats.
8:41 p.m. Courtyard By Marriott/ Felton St. Larceny.
11:04 p.m. Marlboro Country Convenience/West Main St. Robbery.
Saturday, April 13
1:13 p.m. Framingham Rd. Harassment.
4:36 p.m. Framingham Rd. Harassment.
6:30 p.m. Arrested , Blaine Derek Gonya, 29, of 109A Broadmeadow Rd., Apt. 7, Marlborough, for assault w/dangerous weapon.
9:35 p.m. Arrested , Richard Lewis Waterfall Jr., 21, of 81
Carriage Hill Cir., Southborough, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, possess open container of alcohol in MV, marked lanes violation.
Sunday, April 14
8:21 a.m. Mechanic St. Animal complaint.
2:48 p.m. Lincoln St. Fraud/ forgery.
3:08 p.m. The Heights at Marlborough Apts/Briarwood Ln. Vandalism.
4:42 p.m. Target Store/BPRE. Larceny.
7:37 p.m. Lakeshore Dr. Fraud/ forgery.
Monday, April 15
11:58 a.m. Ghiloni Park/Concord Rd. Vandalism.
12:17 p.m. Whispering Brook Rd. Fraud/forgery.
3:01 p.m. McDonald Hotel/Main St. Threats.
3:51 p.m. Marlborough Court Condominiums/East Main St. Fraud/forgery.
5:21 p.m. Shawmut Ave. Larceny.
6:57 p.m. Bruce Rd. Fraud/ forgery.
Tuesday, April 16
12:36 p.m. Edinboro St. Larceny. 1:21 p.m. Hildreth St. Fraud/ forgery.
4:52 p.m. River St. Harassment. 5:40 p.m. Court/Weed Sts. Trespassing.
7:21 p.m. Howland/Chestnut Sts. Larceny.
Wednesday, April 17
10:06 a.m. River St. Animal complaint. 4:41 p.m. Curtis Ave. Fraud/ forgery.
6:23 p.m. Hannaford Super Market/BPRW. Fraud/forgery.
6:45 p.m. Brown/High Sts. Animal complaint.
7:06 p.m. Design Pak Lofts/ Maple St. Fraud/forgery.
had some very good coaching up to this point,” Joyce told the Community Advocate after instructing the softball team.
“They have some good fundamentals, but sometimes they don’t understand the ‘how and
why’ the swing works. They’re being told sometimes what to do, but hopefully after today they have a better understanding of the ‘why.’ ”
“Instead of coaching ideas, I teach feel. They were able to feel what it felt like
‘in sync’ and have the proper sequence in their swing,” he added.
The Westborough Boosters, led by President Liz Burow, sponsored the clinic.
The Boosters aim to “[foster] support, interest and enthusiasm for interscholastic sports teams in Westborough Public Schools,” according to the organization’s website. Inviting Joyce was one of many things the group has done to support Westborough athletics, including providing scholarships, paying for sports rec-
ognition banquets, providing sports championship banners and sponsoring the student hall of fame induction.
“I think what’s most important to us… is we want our athletes to feel like we support them, especially in their years where they’re growing and perfecting their game. We want them to know that the reason we work hard to raise money is so we can make them competitive athletes, and that, in turn, will help them with their searches, whether they want to continue on to college
or continue on to coaching,” Burow said.
Burow also mentioned that anyone who would like to help the Westborough Boosters — and have an excellent time — can compete in the annual Boosters Golf Tournament at Juniper Hills.
For more information on the Westborough Boosters, visit https://www.westboroughboosters.com/.
By Evan Walsh Reporter
HUDSON – Marlborough had a magical start to the John Ahearn Memorial Tournament — but the magic soon ran out.
On April 16, the Marlborough Panthers faced the Hudson Hawks in the tournament’s opening round at Guidotti Field, ultimately defeating their longtime rival, 7-3, after a late-inning offensive outburst. While Marlborough had an early lead in the title game on April 18, the Tantasqua Warriors clinched the championship after defeating the Panthers, 7-5.
Panthers shock the Hawks
The opening round of the tournament was the latest meeting in a storied rivalry between the Panthers and Hawks.
“This is a divisional game. Any time you see the red-andwhite and orange-and-black going against each other it’s just special. It’s a great rivalry that both of the towns and communities have,” Marlborough Head Coach Jon Cruickshank told the Community Advocate after the game.
The game featured two strong performances from both teams’ starting pitchers. Hudson’s Chris Aucoin pitched six innings, striking out three and keeping the Panthers off the board until his final frame. Marlborough’s Tyler Moore pitched seven innings, striking out nine and allowing only two hits.
Despite Moore’s dominance, Hudson scored three runs in the bottom of the third inning. Although Marlbor -
ough started to rally in the sixth inning and narrowed the Hawks’ lead, the Panthers still trailed, 3-1, heading into the top of the seventh inning. Marlborough had three outs to make magic happen.
The Panthers’ offense — led by Ryan Dillon and Jack Cincotta — came to life in the final inning, registering consecutive singles and doubles to take the lead. When the damage was done, the Panthers scored six runs in the seventh inning and led 7-3.
The Hawks couldn’t match the scoring in the bottom half of the inning.
“They just continue to grind; they’re trusting the process, they’re trusting each other. I just tell them to revert back to their training, believe in themselves. Just keep grinding
and focus on the next play, not the last play. That’s really big for us,” Cruickshank said.
“Some of these guys have been playing together for many years. They’ve always been gritty-type kids who don’t really like to give up. They do learn well from their mistakes. Resilience is something that they learn on their own – it’s not a skill we could ever teach at practice… It’s great to see them go together, stay together. Even though you do go through some ups and downs over the game, they do a great job staying together and not quitting,” he added.
Marlborough falls to Tantasqua
After their triumph over Hudson, the Panthers fell to Tantasqua, 7-5. The game,
The game was played through constant downpours.
The Panthers did most of their damage in the first inning, pulling ahead 3-0 and taking an early-inning lead. Dillon led the Marlborough offense, with contributions from Dylan Romano and Cincotta. Cincotta pitched six innings, allowing three hits.
“[It] was a tough day with the weather. Both teams had to battle the chill and the rain. I think our guys battled through that challenge to give us all a good baseball game to watch,” Cruickshank said. “We battled and fought through scrappy at-bats. The boys never gave up on themselves but… came up a little short. I’m very happy with our drive to compete.”
originally scheduled to be played at Guidotti Field, was moved to Marlborough High School’s turf field due to rain.
Marlborough’s Dillion and Moore were named to the all-tournament team. Three Tantasqua players — including MVP Miles Blake — made the team, while Shrewsbury’s Joey Guidotti and Hudson’s Michael Atwater rounded out the alltournament squad.
