CA 240503

Town Meeting purchases

Whitney St. property, approves MBTA zoning

Northborough| 10

VFW post reaffirms its commitment to reopening

westborough| 17

Shrewsbury Little League marks Opening Day with parade

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – Baseball and softball are back, and Little League ballplayers couldn’t be happier.

On April 26, ballplayers returned to the field to celebrate Opening Day, parading with their teammates throughout Dean Park. After an early spring full of rain and snow, the park’s main field was back in business: The grass was freshly cut, the foul lines were pristine, and the basepaths were recently raked.

“We’ve been doing [the parade] for a few years now, and I think we’ve found the right recipe for it. Not to say that we always repeat – we always tweak things to make it better — but I think we’ve pulled together a good, solid event to start the season,” Shrewsbury Little League President Michael DiPiazza said.

Starting at the upper softball fields, Little League players walked down to the parking lot, into the outfield and lined up around the infield. Players — some toting gloves and balls —held signs to represent their team’s sponsor and danced along to the likes of Taylor Swift’s “Shake It Off” and John Fogerty’s “Centerfield.”

Though the Shrewsbury Little League organized the event, it took the whole community to pull it off. The Shrewsbury Police Department and Shrewsbury Fire Department helped facilitate the parade, Duke’s Collectibles enticed eager collectors, Smiles Four Balloons provided decorations,

and Creedon & Co., Inc. employees distributed food to event attendees.

“I remember playing Little League and I remember the parade. I remember the excitement of all of that. I think we’re trying to recreate what we all remember at Little League from when we were kids. I’d say I certainly remember certain games or certain situations, but I definitely remember the parade and Opening Day — just the excitement of all of it. We hope

Work on community center moves forward as

Town Manager Kristi Williams said CHA has a good track record with building senior centers in the area, including in Franklin and Randolph.

She added that the senior center and the Recreation Department have been meeting with other town departments to discuss technical needs and other details prior to moving into the center.

Little League players paraded through Dean Park during Opening Day celebrations on April 26. (Photo/Evan Walsh)

Little League | 16

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Dear Editor,

I’m writing to propose that the Town of Shrewsbury remove Kevin Mizikar from his position as Town Manager, if only for one reason ... his rubber-stamping the perpetuation of the ash dump on route 20. Shrewsbury is literally getting dumped on during Mizikar’s watch. Not only is Shrewsbury receiving ash from the burnt waste of surrounding towns, but Win Waste (formerly Waste Management) runs a for-profit reception facility in Millbury, receiving waste from anyone who pays the price to have it incinerated.

Contamination of Shrewsbury’s town wells with harmful heavy metals has been an issue for a number of years now. The monofil ash dump on route 20 will be a time bomb for all time. A little research on the internet reveals the hazards of ash monofil landfills, and how supposed impervious linings become compromised leading to

groundwater contamination.

No matter how much they try to sugar-coat the ash dump, whether with topping it with solar panels, or boasting about it as “green space” where sheep can graze, what lies just beneath the surface is poisonous, unsightly, and bound to haunt all future generations.

Shrewsbury would do well to get rid of Win, as well as a town manager who betrays what is in the best interest of the town’s residents.

Francis Reagan Shrewsbury

Ten Reasons Why Shrewsbury Town Meeting Should Vote NO on Article 44 (MBTA Zoning)

I’ve lived in Shrewsbury most of my life and am very concerned about the Article 44 proposal for MBTA zoning. Article 44 does not mention in its text the MBTA communities act. Many people

Policy on Letters to the Editor Letters

I have spoken with in town are opposed to Article 44. We hope that our town meeting representatives will not pass it. Below are a few facts about Article 44 and some reasons why Town Meeting should vote against it:

WHAT is Article 44: Proposed zoning bylaw for multifamily housing as of right.

WHY is Shrewsbury proposing Article 44: MA state law section 3A (MBTA Communities Act) requires adjacent MBTA transit stop communities (like Shrewsbury) to zone for 3A multi-family housing as of right.

Why should Shrewsbury Town Meeting Members vote NO on Article 44 on May 20, 2024:

1. 3A requires a minimum 10% increase of total housing units – 1,500 new units.

2. State will not offset the costs to Shrewsbury associated with the new units such as increased strain on our schools, infrastructure and town services.

signed with a name, address and telephone number for verification (only name and town will be printed). Letters should be sent to news@communityadvocate.com or mailed to Managing Editor c/o Community Advocate, 32 South St. Westborough MA 01581. The editor reserves the right to reject letters on the basis of length, libelous content,

Friday the week before publication. Opinions expressed in the letters to the editor do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Community Advocate management or its advertisers.

PUBLISHER/EDITOR: David Bagdon

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: 508.930.9022 MANAGING EDITOR: Laura Hayes

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ADVERTISING DEPT: Diane Sabatini | 508.366.5500

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.

3. “As of Right” means development proceeds without the need for discretionary process or zoning approval in an approved 3A district.

4. 3A is currently being challenged in the courts as violative of the Massachusetts Constitution (Article 89 of Amendment – “Home Rule”).

5. Home Rule grants/confirms to the citizens of every MA town the right of self-government in local matters (such as zoning).

6. If Shrewsbury town meeting passes Article 44 and 3A is found unconstitutional, we are stuck with the MBTA zoning because we passed it!

7. MBTA zoning is NOT AFFORDABLE HOUSING

8. The State has not even approved our proposed 3A district yet (and likely will not).

9. Shrewsbury should join the growing list of towns (Holden, Milton, Marshfield) that are saying NO to state interference with local governance.

10. There is no harm in waiting. We have time to see if 3A is unconstitutional and if the state will approve our proposed 3A district (old Christmas tree shops plaza).

Catherine Rajwani Shrewsbury

Dear Grafton Residents,

I am writing this letter in enthusiastic support of Craig Dauphinais for Selectboard. I have had the pleasure of knowing Craig for many years, and I have witnessed first hand his unwavering commitment to the betterment of our community. Craig possesses a remarkable ability to bring people together, listen attentively to diverse viewpoints, and work collaboratively towards common goals. His inclusive approach to problemsolving ensures all voices are heard and respected, result-

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The wine selection at JULIO’S LIQUORS ranges from staple brands to eclectic options. We offer exciting choices of complexity and individuality that are competitively priced. It’s important to us that our customers feel confident in their selections, and we encourage them to try new and unique wines. Our 20,000 sq. ft. store is located at 140 Turnpike Rd., Rt. 9 East. For more information, please call 508-366-1942

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By Evan Walsh Reporter

NORTHBOROUGH – Craig

Cox loved the “Go Out Doors” exhibit.

From April through June, several painted wooden doors are stationed around Ellsworth McAfee Park in Northborough for the public to observe. As the treasurer for the Northborough Cultural Council, which organizes the exhibit, Craig was heavily involved with the project, recovering the doors, “upcycling” them and installing the doors — now art pieces — in the park.

Craig took pride in making good use of doors that would otherwise be forgotten. He had helped conceptualize the exhibit years ago and organized the event since its inception in 2022. Last year, he salvaged several doors from a demolished house on Hudson Street, telling the Community Advocate that the art puts a “smile on [people’s] faces, and they see something and it makes

their day better.”

After Craig passed away unexpectedly in December, the exhibit’s fate was uncertain.

The Northborough Cultural Council, led by Craig’s wife, Suzanne, leaped into action to hold the event. It wasn’t easy picking up the pieces, but Suzanne made it work.

On April 27, dozens of community members gathered for the “Go Out Doors” exhibit in Craig’s memory.

“This whole thing is in his honor. It was hard to know

Northborough Cultural Council

Secretary Suzanne Cox speaks to the crowd. (Photo/Evan Walsh)

what we were going to do, but we all came together and put it together anyway. We wanted to make sure this was dedicated to him to recognize all the effort he put into making this a reality. He was the key to getting the doors,” Suzanne told the Community Advocate before the event.

Although Craig couldn’t be there in person, his love for the event was certainly shared by event attendees, including local and state government officials. Select Board Chair

Mitch Cohen offered remarks remembering Craig and commending the hard work of event organizers. Rep. Kate Donaghue (D-Westborough) and Sen. Robyn Kennedy (DWorcester) also attended the event. Rep. Meghan Kilcoyne (D-Clinton), who owns one of the doors from a past year’s exhibit, also stopped by.

The doors — decorated by local artists — are bright and colorful. The designs range from nature imagery — Jill Strait’s “Bird Quilt” and Rebecca Duffy’s “Farmyard Friends” — to more adventurous pieces, including Brittni Laquidara’s “Sky’s the Limit.” Other entries include Peggy Ann’s “Reflections of Connection: I am Tree,” Bindu Gupta’s “The Peace Within,” Lisa Hayden’s “Verdant Bloom,” and Jamie Andrade’s “Virginia Simms George.”

“It’s about community. It’s about showcasing our local artists so when people go out into community spaces, they see the people in the commu-

nity through their art. We have all these wonderful artists here, and when you come to public spaces, it’s nice to see people adding value to the spaces. It’s the cultural council’s way of bringing people’s culture into the community. It’s about saying, ‘Did you know we have incredible artists here in Northborough?’ and showcasing art,” said Suzanne.

The Northborough Cultural Council is one of 329 local cultural councils under the Massachusetts Cultural Council. The group aims to improve the quality of life for Northborough residents and contribute to the economic vitality of the town.

The seven doors will remain at Ellsworth McAfee Park over the next few months. If you want to own part of the exhibit, the Northborough Cultural Council is auctioning the doors to raise money for the LOVE Northborough Art Campaign. To place a bid, or to see the doors, visit https:// www.32auctions.com/GoOutDoors2024.

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Letters | from page 3 ing in decisions that reflect the collective interests of our community. Any time I’ve ever needed to get to the root of a town issue, I’ve always known that I could turn to Craig for answers and solutions.

In addition to his exceptional interpersonal skills, Craig also possesses a strong understanding of the issues facing our small town. Whether it is concerns related to infrastructure, housing, budgeting, or community development, Craig approaches each challenge with a thoughtful and analytical mindset. His willingness to thoroughly research issues, consult with experts, and explore innovative solutions sets him apart as a pragmatic and forwardthinking leader.

I wholeheartedly endorse Craig Dauphinais for the open Selectboard position. His proven track record of leadership, dedication to our community, and passion for public service make him an exceptional candidate who will excel in this role. I am confident that Craig will approach his duties with the utmost professionalism, integrity, and diligence and I believe that his election to the Selectboard will be a tremendous asset to the town of Grafton.

Sincerely, Carl Palmer Grafton

We need Diane Bemis on the Hudson Select Board!

I have known our neighbor Diane Bemis since we moved to the Villages at Quail Run in Hudson over five years ago. Diane serves as President of our Homeowners’ Association and is involved in all aspects of decision-making for our community. Diane also used her leadership skills when she served as Superintendent of the Littleton Public School system. This is a crucial role requiring a range of interpersonal skills that enable collaboration and consensus as she managed school budgets ranging from $20 million to $40 million while negotiating both union and non-union contracts. Diane’s managerial skills were pivotal in collaborating with school board

members to make certain that critical decisions were being made efficiently and fairly with an understanding of Littleton’s funding limitations. Diane has developed an interest in Hudson’s town government since moving here in 2015. She has attended almost every Select Board and Planning Board meeting for the past few years and has developed a real understanding of Hudson’s needs and assets. Supervising all functions of a school system, day in and day out, engaging

in long-term planning and strategic decision-making are the hallmarks of an effective leader. Are these the kind of skills we need on the Hudson Select Board? Yes, I think so. Please vote for Diane Bemis at the Hudson Town election.

Barbara Carvalho Hudson

Dear Grafton Residents,

We are writing in support

of Craig Dauphinais for Select Board. We have known Craig for decades, both as a friend as well as our “go to” about all things Grafton. There are several characteristics we would highlight here; his keen sense of purpose, his remarkable commitment to public service, his integrity and finally his love of and pride for this town we all call home.

We have seen Craig in action many times over the years and can attest to his impressive ability to balance the many needs of BOTH the

residents AND the town. We believe this comes from his many years as a local community business leader and his deep knowledge of the town. Finally, we would point to his previous years serving on the Select Board. The role of Select Board member is not for everyone. We feel experience to be particularly critical at this juncture for our town. Please vote on May 21st.

Dan

and Beth Concaugh Grafton

Conversations with our Inspiring

Residents

Meet Ginger and Erin O’Connor

1. How did you make the decision to move your mom to the Willows? (Erin) Mom had started to have a couple of health and mobility issues that grounded her... we knew that driving was going to be tricky so, while she was in respite, we began looking.

2. Was location key to your selection of the Willows? (Erin) Yes, we love New England. Mom said to me, “Erin, where are we going to go to make our memories? We have always loved the Boston area... she said to me, “Let’s go home so we can spend this chapter doing the things we both love”

3. Were you surprised to learn about all the choices you would face? (Erin) There’s no handbook for how to help a parent with this transition. We wanted to find a place that would help her handle all of the changes that come with aging. Whatever the next phase is, the goal is to age in place for as long as you can in the quality and the surroundings you love .

4. What makes you feel at home at the Willows? (Ginger) It’s so clean here. This place has character. It’s not all new and chrome. This is my kind of place. I’ve met a lot of nice people. It fits us and we fit it... and the staff is so accommodating and so quick to respond.

5. What lesson did you learn about selecting a senior living facility? (Ginger) Had I been thinking about it, maybe I would’ve looked into it in my 60’s, not that I was ready for it at all, but for me to do the work to come to a place like the Willows. To say ‘all right,’ what am I looking at when I’m 80? Start looking at these places, just start to prepare. It’s important to know what your options are.

Work on community center moves forward as project manager named

Community center | from page 1

About the building

The future community center building includes 31,000 square feet on the first floor, and 32,500 square feet on the second floor. Amenities include a basketball court and pool (currently drained).

Current plans call for the Recreation Department to move into the second floor, and to relocate the senior center to the first floor.

For the 2025 fiscal year, the costs are estimated at $431,969 for operating expenses; $770,000 for debt service. Expenses would include salaries for a coordinator and custodian, maintenance and utilities.

The building at 1500 Union St. was constructed in 2007; most of its systems — electrical, plumbing, HVAC — are still in place.

The building is considered in good condition, according to reports provided by consultant EBI; the roof and HVAC will have to be replaced within a few years.

Both the membrane and synthetic slate portions of the roof are 16 years old and are considered in good shape, although the membrane shows

signs of patching. Ponding was noticed at one corner of the roof.

The cost to replace the membrane portion of the roof has been estimated at $112,000.

The HVAC units were installed in 2007. In overall good condition, they are reaching “end of life” within two years. It is estimated to cost $89,000 to replace the units.

The consultant determined that the fire alarm control panel was in overall good condition and last tested in May 2023. It will be reaching its “end of life” in about nine years and would cost about $15,000 to replace the panel.

The hydraulic elevator was also in good condition, with a current inspection certificate. The elevator’s “end of life” is projected to be within four years. It would cost about $5,000 to renovate the elevator cab.

Moving forward, the town plans to issue a request for quotes for an architect.

The community engagement process will take place in the spring and summer, with recommendations on “fitting up” the building to be presented at the fall Town Meeting in October.

Westborough Women’s Club donates $15,000 for library passes

WESTBOROUGH – Members of the Westborough Women’s Club recently donated $1,500 to the Friends of the Westborough Public Library to help with the purchase of several museum passes that are available for the community to borrow for reduced admissions. The library has more than 20 passes available, and this donation covered the following: the Ecotarium, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts, the New England Botanic Gardens at Tower Hill, the Worcester Art Museum, ZOO New England and state parks in Massachusetts.

Check out www.westboroughlibrary.org for the full list and availability.

From left to right: Maureen Amyot, library director; Kevin Johnson, president of the Friends of the Westborough Public Library; Wendi Comey, treasurer of the Friends of the Westborough Public LIbrary; and representatives of the Westborough Women’s Club – Reene Hatherley, Polly Thayer, Terry Petrucelli and Betsy Krentzman (Courtesy Photo)

Aging Gracefully

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

PRESCRIPTION ABUSE AND THE ELDERLY

Any prescription drug can be abused. Prescription drug abuse occurs when people misuse their prescribed medications. Misuse can include taking more than is prescribed, taking it when it isn’t needed, or using someone else’s prescription. Older adults, who take more medicine than other age groups, are at risk for prescription drug abuse. However, most do so by accident. Symptoms may be di cult to recognize in the elderly, so it is essential to be vigilant and observant when around an elderly loved one. Warning signs to look for include being defensive when asked about the medication, making excuses for why the medication is needed, sneaking or hiding medicine, or starting to take more than in the past.

As we age, our bodies’ ability to lter chemicals in medications declines. is has an e ect on senior citizen prescription drug addiction risk because they can get a greater e ect of the drug with a lowered dose. If a loved one requires long-term care, please consider NOTRE DAME LONG TERM CARE CENTER at (508) 852-3011. Our center is located at 559 Plantation Street.

P.S. Prescription drug abuse also occurs when people mix medicine with alcohol or other drugs.

Term Care 559 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 508.852.3011 · notredamehealthcare.org

Seniors on the move

How Volunteering Can Help Older Adults Combat Loneliness

(Family Features) e bonds found in friendships and other relationships are an important factor in health and wellness – even science says so.

According to the American Psychological Association, forming and maintaining social connections at any age is one of the most reliable predictors of a healthy, happy and long life. Studies show having strong and supportive friendships can fend o depression and anxiety, lower blood pressure and heart rates in stressful situations and change the way people perceive daunting tasks.

However, statistics show approximately half of U.S. adults lack companionship and feel socially disconnected, according to the U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Healing E ects of Social Connection and Community. In fact, 12% don’t have anyone they consider a close friend, per the Survey Center on American Life. is “epidemic of loneliness,” as coined by U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy, can take a severe toll on mental and physical health.

As people age, the risks of isolation increase. With America’s older population growing rapidly – the 65 and older population reached more than 55 million in 2020 – discussing how older adults can combat loneliness is relevant to public health and individual well-being.

Consider volunteering, which is one of the best and most rewarding ways to combat loneliness.

Volunteering Combats Loneliness

People o en volunteer to nd a sense of purpose, learn new skills, improve their communities or establish new routines a er retiring or becoming empty nesters. For many, making friends through volunteer work is a welcome bonus. e act of volunteering provides proven bene ts for older adults.

Forming connections can make all the di erence in a person’s volunteer experience and sense of well-being. People who meet

through volunteer work inherently share a common interest and something to bond over. ese friendships can carry over outside of volunteer work and lead to bonding over other hobbies and interests.

Connection-Focused Volunteer Opportunities

In addition to making friends with fellow volunteers, many older adults also form relationships with the people they’re serving, especially if those recipients are their peers.

For example, AmeriCorps Seniors is the national service and volunteerism program in the federal agency of AmeriCorps that connects adults aged 55 and up to local service opportunities that match their interests. Its Senior Companion Program pairs volunteers with other older adults or those with disabilities who need companionship or assistance. Volunteers may help with tasks such as paying bills, shopping or getting companions to appointments. In some cases, volunteers may also provide support and respite for family members caring for loved ones with chronic illnesses.

“We o en think of volunteering as ‘giving back,’ but we’ve seen rsthand that it o en becomes so much more than that,” said Atalaya Sergi, director of AmeriCorps Seniors. “By spending a few hours each week with another older adult in need of support, our volunteers are not only giving back to others, but they’re adding meaning to their own lives and establishing new connections. ey’re helping to ght the loneliness epidemic one visit at a time.”

Growing older can come with challenges, but some of those can be minimized with a positive mindset and commitment to remaining connected and engaged – whether with friends, relatives or fellow community members. Fostering relationships is a key ingredient to a healthier and more ful lling life.

For more information and to nd volunteer opportunities near you, visit AmeriCorps.gov/ YourMoment.

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

Dog grooming shop comes to Westborough

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – The Polished Pup has set up shop at 3 W. Main St., at the former home of Athru Designs.

“As a resident of Westborough, I always felt Westborough was in need of a dog

Your

grooming salon,” said Elizabeth Dumas, who moved The Polished Pup from Northborough. “This has been a dream of mine for years.

“I am so excited to be part of such an iconic, historic building and the revitalization of downtown,” she added.

The new location features

top-of-the-line equipment, she said. Her canine clients are also treated to classical music and diffusers.

“It’s like a spa experience for dogs,” she said.

Dumas switched careers from law enforcement as a Boston police officer to dog grooming when she learned how to

Empower New Graduates with Gifts of Independence

With graduation season approaching, many friends and family members seek meaningful ways to celebrate the achievement.

While traditional gifts are always appreciated, consider something with lasting value that can help launch graduates towards financial independence.

Aside from cash or gift cards, here are some thoughtful financial gift ideas and tips to empower high school and college graduates as they embark on their next chapter.

Investment Account. Open a brokerage account in their name and purchase one or two foundational low-cost index exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Even better, establish small automatic monthly contributions from their and your checking accounts. Even at $25-$50 a month, it’s a consistent reminder that demonstrates the value of saving, compounding, and choosing to invest over time.

Furthermore, encourage graduates to explore different investment options and asset classes in these taxable investment accounts. And if they make investment mistakes, good. It is better to do it at a young age with less money and responsibilities than in their mid-40’s, with a family and inside their retirement accounts.

Parental IRA Contributions. Parents can contribute to their child’s Individual Retirement Account (IRA) up to the child’s earned income. Consider Roth IRA and its unique advantages including being funded with after-tax dollars, meaning withdrawals in retirement are tax-free. This can be incredibly beneficial for young graduates, as their income and tax rates are likely lower now than they will be in the future. By starting a Roth IRA early, graduates can maximize their tax-free growth potential over the long term.

Financial Literacy Books. Equip graduates with essential financial knowledge by gifting them books on personal finance and investing. Consider “The Total Money Makeover” by Dave Ramsey, “Poor Charlie’s Almanack” by Charles Munger and Peter Kaufman or “The Millionaire Next Door” by Thomas Stanley and William Danko.

I wish I’d read ‘Millionaire’ in my 20’s, instead of early 30’s, as it provides insights into the habits and behaviors of wealthy individuals, offering

valuable lessons on living below one’s means, budgeting, and accumulating wealth.

Financial Planning and Investing Tools. Don’t let Tik Tok or free “you-are-the-product” apps be their source of financial knowledge. Consider gifting a subscription to a financial planning app that can help track spending, set savings goals, and create budgets. These tools provide valuable insights into their financial habits and empower them to make informed decisions about their money and avoid unnecessary debt.

And for those who want to invest beyond their low-cost index ETFs, consider Investor’s Business Daily or gift a year access to Seeking Alpha Premium.

Financial Advisory Services. Last year a client set up two Zoom meetings for their son, a college graduate moving to North Carolina. For the first meeting, the four of us met on an agenda mom and dad wanted covered. For the next meeting, the parents bowed out, leaving the agenda and conversation up to their son. This worked well, as he was much more engaged and has stayed connected by sending questions as they arise and sharing updates.

Entrepreneurial Resources. If the graduate has ambitions of starting their own business, even a side hustle, consider gifting business books, online courses, or membership to entrepreneurial communities. As a parent, consider the legal benefits ensuring a Limited Liability Corporation (LLC) is established by paying for the initial state registration.

Building an Emergency Fund . Encourage graduates to establish an emergency fund by contributing to it yourself. Life is unpredictable, and having savings set aside for unexpected expenses can provide peace of mind and prevent them from going into debt during emergencies.

Graduates who receive these gifts will not only appreciate the gesture but also benefit from the financial stability they provide as they navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

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.

care for her own dog.

“My passion for grooming was ignited after I adopted my shih tzu Cody from a local shelter in 2016. Due to his fearful and reactive nature, I was unable to find a groomer to work with him,” she said. “I began grooming Cody myself, and although he is very difficult, I discovered I loved the grooming process and found it to be very therapeutic.”

Dumas began attending seminars for grooming in 2017; she left law enforcement in 2021 to pursue dog grooming full time.

“I gained hands-on experience by attending a grooming

Elizabeth Dumas gives her dog, Louie, a touchup at The Polished Pup’s new location on West Main Street in Westborough. (Photo/Maureen Sullivan)

school in Kentucky, working in several different grooming salons and mentoring under industry leaders such as Nikki Guimaraes, owner of Immaculate Pooch in Leicester,” she said.

In addition to grooming, Dumas holds certifications in pet first aid and CPR; Hair and Skin by Dr. Cliff Faver; and American Kennel Club SAFE Groomer. She is a member of New England Pet Grooming Professionals.

The shop is open by appointment; Dumas specializes in small dogs.

For information, visit https:// polishedpup.info/, or call 774232-4777.

Money, Your Independence

Glenn Brown, CFP

COMMUNITY HISTORY

Westborough clockmaker Gardner Parker was in high demand

WESTBOROUGH THEN NOW

By Kristina Nilson Allen History Columnist

WESTBOROUGH – The Smithsonian Institution, Sturbridge Village, Grafton’s Willard Clock Museum, or, even closer, the Westborough Historical Society. Here you can admire up close the workmanship of Westborough’s expert clockmaker, Gardner Parker (1772-1816).

Parker arrived in Westborough at age 5 in 1777 after his father, Isaac, acquired a sawmill on the Assabet River. After he attended school for a short time, it was apparent that working with machines rather than academics was his forte.

So Parker was apprenticed at age 14 to the most famous clockmakers in the country — the Willard family in Grafton.

Parker showed an early talent for clockmaking. He mastered the complex mechanics, including the workings of pendulums and weights, as well as how to create guns, locks and wooden cabinetry.

After completing his apprenticeship in 1790, Parker set up a small workshop in Westborough. At the time, water power was beginning to revolutionize manufacturing.

Since the clock parts he created had to be filed, and the lathe was manually operated, Parker experimented using water power. With the family

sawmill as a model, he built a two-story, two-room factory at the end of Whitney and Heath Streets, near a tributary of the Assabet River. The years of 1805 to 1815 were spent constructing, equipping and improving Parker’s factory, which was one of the first in Westborough.

Parker proved to be an expert at making all types of clocks, including tower clocks. One of his massive tower clocks was installed in 1801 in Westborough’s second Meeting House in the Town Square. This tower clock was accompanied by his clock and bell system in 1806. In 1809, Parker built and installed in the Baptist Church Westborough’s first organ.

An ad in the October 1803 “Worcester Spy” states that at Parker’s shop “may be had all kinds of clocks at the shortest notice for cash or approved credit, such as large clocks for steeples with any number of dials, clocks that will run a year with one winding, chime

For information and application www.noursefarm.com/csa

508-366-2644

His craftsmanship was in high demand, resulting in 10 to 12 commissions a year, with 200 clocks attributed to him over his 15-year career.

clocks that will delight the ear with a different piece of music every day in the week, common eight-day clocks with mahogany or cherry cases, price $45 to $75, which can be so packed up as to be sent to any part of the country without damage, with directions to set them a going without the assistance of a clockmaker.”

Parker’s handcrafted eightday (or tall) clocks were country versions of the sophisticated Boston tall clocks. The Westborough Historical Society displays a stately Parker eight-day clock created for Eli Whitney’s parents. This handsome tall clock belonging to the Whitney family disappeared until dis-

covered in Connecticut in 1951. Westborough townspeople raised $720 to purchase and return home this piece of Westborough history.

At times, Parker imported finely painted clockfaces and metal parts from England. Payment for a Gardner Parker clock was often in raw materials, such as brass, iron and wood. His craftsmanship was in high demand, resulting in 10 to 12 commissions a year, with 200 clocks attributed to him over his 15-year career. Parker worked for a decade to perfect his dam and mill design, but the water wheel proved too heavy and the dam ineffective. The brook’s water flow simply was not sufficiently powerful.

Discouraged, in 1816 at age 44, Parker took his own life. On maps the site of his failed mill was called “Parker’s Folly,” and eventually just “Folly Lane.”

On maps, the site of Gardner Parker’s mill was called “Parker’s Folly,” and eventually just Folly Lane. (Photo/Laura Hayes)

Town Meeting purchases Whitney St. property, approves MBTA zoning

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH – Northborough’s annual Town Meeting spanned three nights and resulted in the approval to purchase 432 Whitney St.

The town intends to purchase the property for open space and recreation purposes and to develop a small affordable housing project that would consist of four to eight units.

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. According to the statement of proposed use, the developer would use it for

a 40,000- to 60,000-squarefoot building for commercial/ industrial/warehouse/distribution purposes that could be served by a connection to the adjacent freight rail line.

The article specifically requested using $1.7 million in Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds — specifically from the Community Preservation Unreserved Fund, Conservation Fund and from the Community Preservation Fund revenues — to purchase the land.

According to Community Preservation Committee Chair John Campbell, the Department of Conservation and Recreation would be willing to give the town $200,000 toward the conservation of the property and hold the conservation restriction on the parcel.

Campbell said that soil testing had been completed, and it showed no signs of contamination.

Ultimately, residents approved the purchase 260- 67.

MBTA zoning approved

Voters approved two articles at Town Meeting that will result in the creation of two subdistricts to comply with MBTA zoning requirements.

On the floor of Town Meeting, voters approved a reduction of the amount of acres in the downtown sub-district.

The first subdistrict is called the Southwest Connector SubDistrict. It would be 49.2 acres and include three parcels — Avalon Northborough; an undeveloped, abutting parcel of land that has access off Route 20; and the Econo Lodge.

The second subdistrict is called the Downtown Sub-District. The district was originally proposed to contain 11.9 acres and encompass Town Hall, Matec Instruments, Heritage Village, the property at 22-2426 Hudson Street and five acres of EL Harvey and Sons.

In total, Northborough’s district is 61.1 acres and includes 10 parcels.

During Town Meeting, several residents voiced concerns

that the five acres at the Harvey property could result in 75 units. Resident Lois Vandekopple-Smith, who spoke with her neighbors that live near River and Main streets, proposed reducing the amount of the Harvey property included in the sub-district to three acres, which would reduce the number of units to 45.

“People are still a little un-

comfortable with that, but like I said, we’re trying to do some sort of a compromise so that it could be something that could be approved tonight,” said Vandekopple-Smith.

Her amendment was approved by voters, and, as a result, the total district will be 59.1 acres. Town Meeting approved the combined articles by a vote of 137-34.

Shrewsbury Public Library to host artificial intelligence expert

SHREWSBURY – Want to learn more about artificial intelligence?

On Tuesday, May 21 at 7 p.m., the Shrewsbury Public Library will be hosting Yvonne Masakowski, who will deliver a presentation titled “Ethical Considerations of Artificial Intelligence.”

Masakowski is an AI ethics senior product development manager in support of the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office in Washington, D.C. She retired as a professor at the Naval War College, and she has extensive international and NATO science and technology experience. She is the author of the book, “Artificial Intelligence and Global Security: Future Threats, Trends, and Considerations.”

The talk is the third part of a series of presentations on AI sponsored by the Shrewsbury Public Library Foundation.

To register for the event, please visit https://shrewsburyma. assabetinteractive.com/calendar/yvonne-masakowskis-talk-on-ai/.

NORTHBOROUGH/SOUTHBOROUGH –

The Community Advocate reached out to candidates in contested races for the May 14 election.

In Northborough, there are contested races for Planning Board, Northborough School Committee and Northborough candidates for the Regional School Committee. Planning Board candidate James Howell did not return his questionnaire.

In Southborough, there is a contested race for Select Board. Incumbent Andrew Dennington is being challenged by Joseph Palmer.

These are the statements as submitted by the candidate and have been unedited. Due to space constraints in print, the candidates’ responses to additional questions are available at communityadvocate. com.

Southborough Select Board (Vote

for 1)

Andrew Dennington (Incumbent)

Why are you running?

I am the current Chair of the Select Board and am running for re-election because Southborough could benefit from continuity in leadership as we head into 202425. This is a key year when we will decide the Neary School building project (probably our largest building project ever) and address some important public safety staffing issues. I know these issues from having served three years on the Select Board. It takes more than three years to be a truly effective Select Board member, and you need to develop good working relationships with key department heads. I was involved in appointing our current Police Chief, Fire Chief, and DPW Superintendent, and want to continue developing my relationships with them.

Some turnover on the Select Board is healthy, but this has become a challenge in recent years. Each year since 2018, at least one member decided not to run for re-election. I’m

running for re-election to bring some stability to the Board, and keep building on the progress we’ve already made.

What are the three biggest issues facing the Select Board in order of importance?

1. Schools. We will soon reach a decision about the Neary School building project,

which will have significant educational and financial impact on Southborough. As a town government official, a taxpayer, and the parent of school-age children, I will work with the School Committee to support the best possible outcome for this process.

2. Public Safety. We have

made significant progress with our public safety departments—with a new Police Chief, a new Fire Chief and additional staffing. We need to continue to address public safety staff recruitment and retention. We also need to continue to evaluate the potential for joining a regional public safety dispatch organization.

3. Affordable Housing. The average price of a home in Southborough has now reached $900,000. This is putting home ownership out of reach for younger families and for seniors

May Tea at Westborough Senior Center

Help grow a Gratitude Garden for Westborough teachers

WESTBOROUGH – The Westborough Education Foundation will celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week by growing a Gratitude Garden.

The pinwheel garden will be planted by WEF volunteers at each school during Teacher Appreciation Week, May 6-10.

To plant a pinwheel flower in a teacher’s name, visit the Westborough Education Foundation webpage and make a donation of $5 per pinwheel. You will be asked to name your teacher and school.

You may purchase as many pinwheels as you would like. Pinwheel flowers can be purchased up to May 3.

Your tax-deductible donation to the Westborough Education Foundation will fund grants to teachers and other educators for the implementation of innovative educational programs, partnerships and enrichment activities that are outside the funding normally provided in the school budget.

Purchase your pinwheels at www.westborougheducationfoundation.com.

Clock museum begins campaign to expand

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

GRAFTON – It was indeed a time to celebrate.

On April 27, the Willard House and Clock Museum on Willard Street held an open house and kicked off its campaign to grow its endowment, currently at $1.8 million.

The goal is $5 million, which will help support the growth of the museum. Once the goal is reached, it will receive an additional $1 million — and 90 timepieces — from the collection of Houston resident Charles N. Grichar.

Although Grichar was not present at the event, the museum’s executive director and curator, Robert C. Cheney, told visitors of the friendship that has endured for more than 25 years.

“It’s been a real joy on this adventure,” said Cheney.

Cheney — an expert on timepieces — spoke of showing Grichar how to purchase antique clocks and watches, especially those made by the Willard family.

Grichar’s collection includes clocks made by the Willards and their apprentices, about 300 high-grade gold pocket watches, wristwatches and astronomical regulators.

To house such a collection, the museum plans to design a larger space, which would include proper storage, a small auditorium, a horological library, conservation workshops and more.

Donations, no matter how small, may be made

On April 27, the Willard House and Clock Museum held an open house that also served as a kickoff to a fundraising campaign.

(Photo/Maureen Sullivan)

to the museum via www.willardhouse.org.

In addition to the fundraising kickoff, the open house featured live music, colonial reenactors and a chance to see the museum’s collection.

“The weather was with us,” said Beverly Snow, the museum’s program coordinator.

Photos of some of Grichar’s collection stood in most of the first-floor rooms, including the workshop and dining areas.

In the barn, Hat Trick performed classic rock and Cajun tunes; the band donated that day’s tips to the museum.

Inside the main clock display, the Blackstone Valley String Duet performed classical tunes, often to the accompaniment of the clocks’ chimes that announced the hour.

In addition to timepieces, the museum features a collection of portraits of the Willard family; documents; tools and scientific instruments.

The museum is currently open Thursdays-Saturdays, with tours at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Closed Sundays through Wednesdays, and holidays.

Shrewsbury Little League celebrates its Opening Day (Photo/Evan

Little League | from page 1

that these kids remember that. We hope it makes them excited for the season, and I really feel like the community as a whole comes together to make this a successful event,” DiPiazza said.

The players — dressed in

full uniform — participated in an Opening Day ceremony, a ceremonial first pitch, and the annual 12-year-old Home Run Derby. The Worcester Bravehearts — specifically mascot Jake the Lion — helped entertain the players and add excitement to the event.

Walsh)

Former Christmas Tree Shops location may become trampoline park

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – Olde Shrewsbury Village may soon include a new business.

During the April 23 Select Board meeting, Town Manager Kevin Mizikar announced that developers had filed permit requests to construct a trampoline park in the Olde

VFW post reaffirms its commitment to reopening

After being closed for three years,

its

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – Three years after a fire shut it down, officials with the VFW Post 9013 on Milk Street remain committed to reopening.

According to Post Commander Michael Van Nest, litigation connected with the fire was settled in April.

“VFW Post 9013 is committed to opening the building, developing a refurbishment plan and determining a path forward to continue our mission of supporting veterans in our community,” he said in a statement. “VFW Post 9013’s mission is to support the veterans and families in the Westborough and adjacent towns while also being an active participant within our community.”

In May 2021, a fire caused damage to the outside of the structure, and “considerable damage to the inside,” according to Van Nest.

The post has remained closed since then.

Shrewsbury Village plaza, which is the former home of the Christmas Tree Shops. If the permit is approved, 40,000 square feet of the plaza’s former appliance store would be converted into the trampoline-related business.

“A good entertainment venue coming to town there. We’re all interested in seeing that plaza getting developed

and getting back to commercial use. So that’s good news there that it’s such a quick turnaround,” Mizikar said.

The nine-acre Olde Shrewsbury Village plaza, located at the intersection of Route 9 and Route 20, was sold in March to 1000 Boston Turnpike LLC, which is managed by Zi Qian Zhang. Zhang’s company, Fall River-based JZ Real Estate,

owns nearly 20 trampoline parks along the East Coast.

Prior to Zhang purchasing Olde Shrewsbury Village, the Christmas Tree Shops operated on the lot for over 35 years, officially closing on Aug. 12. The Shrewsbury location was one of the last remaining Christmas Tree Shops in operation; the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in

May 2023.

Shrewsbury is currently considering the Christmas Tree Shops location — and surrounding areas along the Route 20 corridor — for its MBTA zoning proposal. The plaza has repeatedly been identified in Select Board and Planning Board meetings as an area in need of improvement.

Living Suites Available

Available housekeeping and transportation services, group activities, and delicious home-cooked meals add to the convenience.

Two-bedroom assisted living suites, including three homecooked meals daily, range from $4,200 to $4,900 per month, single occupancy. An additional occupant is only $100 per month.

VFW Post 9013 has reaffirmed

commitment to reopening. (Photo/ Maureen Sullivan)

Cornerstone Bank celebrates grand opening of new Shrewsbury branch

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – Community members gathered for the grand opening of Cornerstone Bank’s Shrewsbury branch on April 27.

In addition to bank executives, town leaders welcomed the financial institution to town, including Select Board Chair Beth Casavant, Select Board members Carlos Garcia and Michelle Conlin, Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of Commerce President Karen Chapman and Rep. Hannah Kane (R-Shrewsbury).

At noon, the group cut a ribbon to celebrate the opening. While the ribbon-cutting cer-

emony marked an important moment for both Cornerstone Bank and the Town of Shrewsbury, there were plenty of other attractions that drew hundreds of people from around

the region. The bank, which prides itself on becoming part of the community, invited several food trucks, laid out lawn games and set up a bounce house in the parking lot. There

was also plenty of Cornerstone Bank-branded merchandise available.

“It’s incredible. Honestly, I had no expectation we we’re going to have this many peo-

ple. It’s awesome. And the town has been incredible. The people have been incredible, and in one month we’ve grown exponentially. I’m very proud of what everyone has done. A lot of work went into this. Certainly, how we’ve been embraced by the town has been very exciting,” Cornerstone Bank CEO Todd Tallman said. The branch, located at 195 Main St., officially opened March 9. The site includes EV charging stations, drive-up video tellers and an ATM. The Shrewsbury location is Cornerstone Bank’s easternmost branch and 11th location. For more on Cornerstone Bank, visit https://cornerstonebank.com/.

Camp & Activity Guide

The ribbon is cut at Cornerstone Bank’s grand opening. (Photo/Evan Walsh)

Time to ‘unplug’ and have some fun in Westborough

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – From May 5 to May 11, residents will have a chance to step away from the screen, put away the phone and discover what’s available in town with “Westborough Unplugs.”

“It’s a chance to unplug and tune in to what life is all about,” said Kelley Petralia, executive director of Westborough Connects.

The Westborough Public Library will be the place for several activities, including:

Sunday, May 5, 3 to 5 p.m. – “Festival! A Trip through Time.”

Tuesday, May 7, 4 to 5:30 p.m. – Family game day.

Wednesday, May 8 – Infant massage workshop, 1 to 2 p.m.

Thursday, May 9 – Create a fairy garden (teens), 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. (registration required).

Friday, May 10, 3:30 to 5 p.m. – Reading buddies (registration required).

Other events planned for the week include a community bike ride on Sunday, May 5; “You Can Write a Novel” on May 6; and a chance to explore Nourse Farm on Saturday, May 11.

Unplugged walks and talks will happen daily during the week.

New programs include workouts sponsored by Prototype (family workout on Friday, May 10) and Midstrong (outdoor workout on Tuesday, May 7); and ice cream Wednesday on Wednesday, May 8, at Uhlman’s Ice Cream.

The Old-Fashioned Bike Ride will take place on Monday, May 6, at Hastings Elementary School. Arrival at 5:30 p.m.; the parade will begin at 6. No preregistration required; all families are welcome.

The signature event, Bookin’ It to Bay State, will take place on Thursday, May 9, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. There will be a storytime with the librarian from Armstrong Elementary School; an all-ages book swap hosted by Hygge House Books and Tatnuck Bookseller; the mobile library from Westborough Public Library; the Turquoise Table; a welcome table with the Westborough Senior Center; and raffle prizes.

In addition to activities, Westborough Connects will offer resources on the importance of unplugging to one’s mental health.

“If we’re on our phones six hours a day, we don’t get to do these things,” said Petralia.

Sponsors include the Westborough Civic Club, Reliant Foundation, Central One Federal Credit Union, Grossman Development Group, Central National Gottesman Foundation, Avidia Foundation and Prototype Training Systems.

For a complete schedule, visit www.westboroughconnects.org, or visit its Facebook page.

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – The Bor -

oughs Collective has set up shop at 21 E. Main St.

On April 27, Hygge House Books staged a grand opening at its new space. It was not only a chance for the shop to celebrate Indie Bookstore Day, but also to check out some of the collective’s other vendors.

Customers perused the shelves for the latest in adult and children’s books. One lucky patron discovered a golden ticket in the stacks — good for 12 free audiobooks.

There was also a scavenger

hunt inside the bookstore; outside, the Simmer n Spice food truck provided lunch and snacks.

And for those wishing to put up their feet, or even take a little nap? There were plenty of comfy chairs, a bean bag, and even a “children’s nook” underneath the space that once served as a bank teller’s drive-through window.

Several other vendors at the collective had goods available for purchase, from soaps to artwork.

“It was a very good turnout,” said Anna Leduc, the owner of Leduc Arts & Antiques who founded the collective.

The Boroughs Collective is made up of nearly two dozen vendors offering a curated collection of antiques, art and accessories. These vendors include Marion’s Workshop, Pillows & Things, Décor, Katy’s Creations and Handcrafted Against the Grain.

There will be two events planned for the collective – an opening for family and friends on Friday, May 17, at 6:30 p.m.; and a ribbon-cutting ceremony with the 9/495 Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday, June 5, at 5:15 p.m. For information, visit www. boroughscollective.com.

This is a paid advertisement

Why Overpricing Your House Can Cost You

Elaine Quigley, CBR, CRS, GRI

Elaine.Quigley@commonmoves.com

Cell: (508) 735-5161

www.EQRE.com

Ifyou’re trying to sell your house, you may be looking at this spring season as the sweet spot – and you’re not wrong. We’re still in a seller’s market because there are so few homes for sale right now. And historically, this is the time of year when more buyers move, and competition ticks up. That makes this an exciting time to put up that for sale sign.

But while conditions are great for sellers like you, you’ll still want to be strategic when it comes time to set your asking price. That’s because pricing your house too high may actually cost you in the long run.

The Downside of Overpricing Your House

The asking price for your house sends a message to potential buyers. From the moment they see your listing, the price and the photos are what’s going to make the biggest first impression. And, if it’s priced too high, you may turn people away. As an article from U.S. News Real Estate says:

“Even in a hot market where there are more buyers than houses available for sale, buyers aren’t going to pay attention to a home

with an inflated asking price.”

That’s because no homebuyer wants to pay more than they have to, especially not today. Many are already feeling the pinch on their budget due to ongoing home price appreciation and today’s mortgage rates. And if they think your house is overpriced, they may write it off without even stepping foot in the front door, or simply won’t make an offer if they think it’s priced too high.

If that happens, it’s going to take longer to sell. And ideally you don’t want to have to think about doing a price drop to try to reignite interest in your house. Why? Some buyers will see the price cut as a red flag and wonder why the price was reduced, or they’ll think something is wrong with the house the longer it sits. As an article from Forbes explains:

“It’s not only the price of an overpriced home that turns buyers off. There’s also another negative component that kicks in. . . . if your listing just sits there and accumulates days on the market, it will not be a good look. . . . buyers won’t necessarily ask anyone what’s wrong with the home. They’ll just assume that something is indeed wrong, and will skip over the property and view more recent listings.”

Your Agent’s Role in Setting the Right Price

Instead, pricing it at or just below current market value from the start is a much better strategy. So how do you find that ideal asking price? You lean on the pros. Only an agent has the expertise needed to research and figure out the current market value for your home.

They’ll factor in the condition of your house, any upgrades you’ve made, and what other houses like yours are selling for in your area. And they’ll use all of that information to find that target number. The right price will bring in more buyers and make it more likely you’ll see multiple offers too. Plus, when homes are priced right, they still tend to sell quickly

Bottom Line

Even though you want to bring in top dollar when you sell, setting the asking price too high may deter buyers and slow down the sales process.

Let’s connect to find the right price for your house, so we can maximize your profit and still draw in eager buyers willing to make competitive offers.

Christopher Heights of Marlborough provides community, comfort and care

By Evan Walsh Reporter

MARLBOROUGH – There’s always something going on at Christopher Heights of Marlborough.

The assisted-living facility, located in the heart of Marlborough, has activities of all types for residents to enjoy. There’s an opportunity for exercise every morning, chances to pursue hobbies or interests throughout the day, and, of course, the highlight of every afternoon is “happy hour” at the pub, which gives residents an opportunity to catch up with friends.

Residents always have the opportunity to get involved, and there’s always something new to try.

“It’s a very active community. We’re big on routine, and we try to keep activities fresh,” Director of Marketing and Admissions Stephanie Nordstrom told the Community Advocate. “If we get new residents, we ask them about things they like to do, so we can provide activities that these people enjoy. In general, we have about one entertainer a week, and we have one trip a week — for lunch, ice cream, shopping or live music. Lots of fun little local trips.”

And while Christopher Heights is filled with fun activities, it’s also the type of place residents can feel at home. Each of the building’s 83 private apartments features amenities like a walk-in shower and full-size refrigerator and freezer. The apartments are centered around shared spaces including the salon, pub and the recently remodeled dining rooms. The kitchen features chef-prepared meals.

The building is warm, cozy and homelike, allowing resi-

dents to feel comfortable and find community.

“There’s lots of engagement that happens. When you’re home and alone for most of the time, it’s very isolating and it’s not good for your brain or health. Having that engagement with other humans throughout the day — it’s really important,” Nordstrom said.

While the community is social and lively, giving residents the freedom to live with dignity in their own space, Christopher Heights provides all the services you’d want from an assisted-living facility. The building’s 24-hour staff can help residents with all types of tasks — even if it’s something as simple as opening a

Christopher Heights of Marlborough has numerous engagement opportunities. (Photo/Courtesy)

pickle jar. When needs become more complex as residents grow older, the staff remains ready to help, assisting residents with their medication, getting dressed, bathing, taking out the trash and more. Christopher Heights looks to help residents “age in place,” Nordstrom said. As residents age,

the gaps between what they’re able to do and what needs to be done widen; Christopher Heights aims to close that gap.

Christopher Heights’ commitment to residents also extends beyond caregiving.

“We offer a spend-down option. Other assisted-living options in Massachusetts are not set up to deal with residents’ financial situations changing. Essentially, it’s payto-play or you can’t stay. For us, we actually work with the residents and work with the state to allow the residents to stay even if their financial situation changes, as it does for most people at that age,” said Nordstrom.

Christopher Heights of Marlborough is located on 99 Pleasant St. in Marlborough. For more information, please visit https://christopherheights.com/marlborough/about or call (508) 281-8001. Business Profiles are advertising features designed to provide information and background about Community Advocate advertisers.

Four people arrested for burglaries in Hudson, Southborough

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

REGION – Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan and State Police Colonel John Mawn Jr. announced that four people have been arrested in a burglary ring, including for incidents in Hudson and Southborough.

According to Ryan and Mawn, Jovan, 29, of Providence, Rhode Island; Paul Lemon, 30, of Warwick, Rhode Island; Steven Berdugo, 28, of Providence, Rhode Island; and Paul Miller, 46, of Woonsocket, Rhode Island have been charged in connection to 43 burglaries in 25 Massachusetts towns between 2018 to 2024.

“The defendants are part of an organized burglary ring with ties to a violent Providence-based gang known to law enforcement agencies in

Rhode Island,” a press release from Ryan’s office read.

The arrests were the result of an investigation spanning nine months by the Middlesex district attorney’s office, the State Police detective unit assigned to the DA’s office and State Police Division of Homeland Security, including the MACrimeNet program that is operated by the MSP Fusion Center.

A Middlesex grand jury indicted them on April 18 with 95 counts of unarmed burglary and breaking and entering a dwelling house in the daytime with intent to commit a felony. Ryan and Mawn said a majority of the households were home to people of Indian or South Asian heritage, and the investigators believe the victims were targeted based on their ethnicity, “relying on a belief that their households

POLICE LOG

Due to space constraints, this week’s police log will be running online only. The police log will return in a future edition of the Community Advocate. The police log and other police and fire news can be accessed online at https://www.communityadvocate.com/category/police-fire/.

were more likely to contain precious metals, jewelry and other valuable heirlooms,” the release said.

The aggregate reported value of the stolen property is over $4 million.

Ryan said the defendants were “very sophisticated.” After targeting the victims based on their ethnicity, she said they gathered information on them to strike while the victims weren’t home. The defendants concealed their identities and avoided alarms and minimized their cell phone usage and using Wi-Fi jammers.

“Despite these challenges and the complicated nature and breadth of this investigation, law enforcement collaboratively and persistently worked to today begin the process of holding these four defendants accountable,” Ryan said.

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

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Petition# SPR-24-4

Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the Hudson Planning Board on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at 7:00 p.m., at the Hudson Senior Center, 1st Floor.

At this time, the Hudson Planning Board will consider the application of CC Homes, LLC for Site Plan Approval of a project that entails the reconstruction of the existing site to include a new, wider driveway with a lower slope, an expanded parking & turnaround area to accommodate eight (8) parking spaces, construction of a new retaining wall for the parking lot expansion and stormwater control facilities. The proposed project is consistent with the requirements of the Town of Hudson Protective Zoning By-Laws and in particular Section 8.1.7. The subject property is located at 53 Manning Street within the R15 Residential 15,000 District, Assessors’ Map 19, Parcel 261.

All petition materials are available for review in the Town Clerk’s Office during regular business hours, on the Town of Hudson website at https://go.boarddocs. com/ma/hudsonma/Board.nsf/ goto?open&id=D4MJ874B8870 and can be requested by calling (978) 5622989 or by sending an email to kjohnson@townofhudson.org.

Hudson Planning Board Robert D’Amelio, Chairman

TOWN OF HUDSON NOTICE OF INVITATION TO BID HUDSON FIRE HEADQUARTERS BUILDING RENOVATIONS

The Town of Hudson is requesting sealed bids from qualified contractors in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 149 for building renovations to the Hudson Fire Headquarters located at 296 Cox Street, Hudson, MA 01749.

Bid forms and construction documents are available on www.projectdog.com, project code 860844.

The deadline for filed sub-bids is May 17, 2024 at 1:00 PM.

The deadline for general contractor bids is May 31, 2024 at 1:00 PM.

HUDSON

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 the Hudson Park Commission. The owner of the property is the Town of Hudson. The work is located at 65 Park Street (Map-Parcel 40-9). The proposed project is installation of playground equipment in Riverfront Area to the Assabet River. The

Public Hearing will be held via remote video conference on May 15, 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.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Petition# SPR-24-3

Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the Hudson Planning Board on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at 7:00 p.m., at the Hudson Senior Center, 1st Floor.

At this time, the Hudson Planning Board will consider the application of Jose Peneda for Site Plan Approval of a proj-

ect that entails the construction of a garage addition. The proposed project is consistent with the requirements of the Town of Hudson Protective Zoning By-Laws and in particular Section 8.1.7. The subject property is located at 136 Main Street, East within the DB Downtown Business District, Assessors’ Map 29, Parcel 562.

All petition materials are available for review in the Town Clerk’s Office during regular business hours, on the Town of Hudson website at https://go.boarddocs. com/ma/hudsonma/Board.nsf/ goto?open&id=D4MJ824B8176 and can be requested by calling (978) 5622989 or by sending an email to kjohnson@townofhudson.org.

Hudson Planning Board

Robert D’Amelio, Chairman

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.

LEGAL NOTICE

The Hudson Select Board will hold a public hearing on an application for an Alteration of Premise under MGL Chapter 138 Section 19H of a Farmer’s Brewer’s License from Keith Sullivan, Manager, Medusa Brewing Company d/b/a Wile Hare located at 43 Broad Street, Hudson, MA 01749. The hearing will be held in the Community Room at the Hudson Police Station at 911 Municipal Drive, Hudson, MA 01749 on Monday, May 20, 2024 at 7:00PM. For more information call (978) 562-9963.

THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS

TOWN OF HUDSON WILLIAM WEAGLE, COLLECTOR OF TAXES OFFICE OF THE COLLECTOR OF TAXES NOTICE OF TAX TAKING

To the owners of the hereinafter described land and to all others concerned

You are hereby notified that on Friday the 17th day of May, 2024 , at 10:00 A.M. at the Tax Collectors’s Office, 78 Main St , pursuant to the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 60, Section 53, and by virtue of the authority vested in me as Collector of Taxes, it is my intention to take for the Town of Hudson the following parcels of land for nonpayment of the taxes due thereon, with interest and all incidental expenses and costs to the date of taking, unless the same shall have been paid before that date.

Assessed to C&L REALTY TRUST And LINDA C LUZ

Questions may be directed to: Thomas Gregory, Executive Assistant Town of Hudson tgregory@townofhudson.org 978-562-9963 X400

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 136 Main Street Condominium Association. The owner of the property is 136 Main Street Condominium Association. The work is located at 136 Main Street (Map-Parcel 29-167). The proposed project is construction of a garage in Bordering Land Subject to Flooding. The Public Hearing will be held via remote video conference on May 15, 2024 at 7:00 pm. Please

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 5013 Square Feet located and known as 5 WATER ST shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 41001 and being part of the premises recorded in book 58511 on page 0239 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds. 2022 CPA $12.53 2022 Tax $1,225.63

Assessed To CONSTANTINE RICHARD A A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 6806 Square Feet located and known as 33 LINCOLN ST shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 19298 and being part of the premises recorded in book 50053 on page 0533 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds. 2021 CPA $7.34 2021 Tax $1,712.00

Assessed to DEWALLACE GRAY A And DONNA C DEWALLACE

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 2571 Square Feet located and known as 23 HUNTER AVE shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 35032 and being part of the premises recorded in book 45239 on page 0411 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds. 2022 CPA $14.09

LEGAL

2022 Tax

$1,791.54

2022 Water Lien $510.76

Assessed to DONAHUE PATRICK J And JENNIFER B DONAHUE

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 16610 Square Feet located and known as 14 PARKHURST DR shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 21051 and being part of the premises recorded in book 31922 on page 0284 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds.

2021 Tax

$422.65

Assessed to DUBE STEVEN P And LISA J DUBE

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 10662 Square Feet located and known as 10 MUNSON ST shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 20036 and being part of the premises recorded in book 29015 on page 0253 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds.

2021 Tax $71.89

Assessed To GILL MARJORIE C

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 10890 Square Feet located and known as 33 ELM ST shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 19243 and being part of the premises recorded in book 70403 on page 0143 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds.

Supposed Present Owner Karen McLaughlin

2021 CPA

2021 Tax

$2.16

$284.52

Assessed To HOUGHTON STREET LLC

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 13600 Square Feet located and known as 50 HOUGHTON ST shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 40123 and being part of the premises recorded in book C1269004 on page 0 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds. 2022 Tax $17.28

Assessed To HOUGHTON STREET LLC

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 11162 Square Feet located and known as 46-48 HOUGHTON ST shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 40122 and being part of the premises recorded in book C1269004 on page 0 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds.

2022 Tax

$10.23

Assessed To INDIAN FARM ESTATES LLC

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 8.74 Acres located and known as RIVER ST shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 39026 and being part of the premises recorded in book 74099 on page 50 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds.

2022 CPA $4.04

2022 Tax $400.50

Assessed To INDIAN FARM ESTATES LLC

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 4 Acres located and known as RIVER ST shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 51002 and being part of the premises recorded in book 74099 on page 50 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds.

2022 CPA $1.20

2022 Tax $116.25

Assessed To INDIAN FARMS ESTATES

LLC

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 19330 Square Feet located and known as 17 INDIAN FARM RD shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 51074 and being part of the premises recorded in book 74099 on page 50 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds.

2022 CPA $24.95

2022 Tax $2,494.78

Assessed To INDIAN FARMS ESTATES LLC

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 20071 Square Feet located and known as 15 INDIAN FARM RD shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 51073 and being part of the premises recorded in book 74099 on page 50 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds.

2022 CPA $25.28

2022 Tax $2,528.08

Assessed To INDIAN FARMS ESTATES LLC

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 15399 Square Feet located and known as 19 INDIAN FARM RD shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 51075 and being part of the premises recorded in book 74099 on page 50 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds.

2022 CPA $23.25

2022 Tax $2,325.08

Assessed To INDIAN FARMS ESTATES LLC

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 3.24 Acres located and known as 21 INDIAN FARM RD shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 51076 and being part of the premises recorded in book 74099 on page 50 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds.

2022 CPA $79.47

2022 Tax $7,947.45

Assessed To INDIAN FARMS ESTATES LLC

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 15117 Square Feet located and known as 20 INDIAN FARM RD shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 51077 and being part of the premises recorded in book 74099 on page 50 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds.

2022 CPA $23.14

2022 Tax $2,313.97

Assessed To INDIAN FARMS ESTATES LLC

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 17613 Square Feet located and known as 8 INDIAN FARM RD shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 51083 and being part of the premises recorded in book 74099 on page 50 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds.

2022 CPA $132.99

2022 Tax $13,298.61

Assessed To INDIAN FARMS ESTATES

LLC

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 34830 Square Feet located and known as 14 INDIAN FARM RD shown on the Town of Hudson

Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 51080 and being part of the premises recorded in book 74099 on page 50 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds.

2022 CPA $28.56

2022 Tax $2,856.39

Assessed To LARKIN LUMBER CO INC

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 8.29 Acres located and known as APSLEY ST shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 19351 and being part of the premises recorded in book 00000 on page 0000 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds.

2022 CPA $0.64

2022 Tax $62.51

Assessed To LARKIN LUMBER CO INC

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 7.56 Acres located and known as APSLEY ST shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 19352 and being part of the premises recorded in book 00000 on page 0000 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds.

2022 CPA

2022 Tax

Assessed To MARK A GRIFFIN

$0.61

$60.30

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 24275 Square Feet located and known as 2 WORCESTER AVE shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 35015 and being part of the premises recorded in book 72838 on page 464 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds.

2022 CPA

$11.88

2022 Tax $1,529.56

Assessed To OZAROWSKI MARCIA A

A condominium located and known as 47 HASTINGS RD 70-4 shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 41557 and being part of the premises recorded in book 68188 on page 0238 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds.

2022 CPA $24.25

2022 Tax $2,390.00

Assessed to PALMER REALTY TRUST And GERALDINE FOSSILE TRUSTEES

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 12500 Square Feet located and known as PALMER TERR shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 40083 and being part of the premises recorded in book 41855 on page 0224 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds.

2022 CPA $1.11 2022 Tax $111.02

Assessed to PUIM ANTONIO M And MARIA M PUIM

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 18084 Square Feet located and known as 3 LEE CIR shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 21030 and being part of the premises recorded in book 12307 on page 0180 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds.

2022 CPA $27.74

2022 Tax

$2,773.45

Assessed To SCHOFIELD CARMELLA M

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 15719 Square Feet located and known as 25 EATON DR shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier

05041 and being part of the premises recorded in book 26082 on page 0260 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds. 2022 CPA $36.87 2022 Tax $3,723.77

Assessed To SHEMIN REAL ESTATE LLC

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 2 Acres located and known as HUNTER AVE shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 35005 and being part of the premises recorded in book C1026070 on page 0 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds.

Supposed Present Owner C/O SITEONE LANDSCAPE SUPPLY 2022 Tax $22.45

Assessed To SPENCER PROPERTIES LLC

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 8938 Square Feet located and known as STOWE CT shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 30201 and being part of the premises recorded in book 1843273 on page 0 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds.

Supposed Present Owner C/O JEFFREY BAERINGER 2021 CPA $12.46 2021 Tax $1,266.56

Assessed To SPUS7 WHEELER HILL LLC

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 16331 Square Feet located and known as BRIGHAM ST shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 72017 and being part of the premises recorded in book 66586 on page 0240 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds.

Supposed Present Owner C/O PANCO MANAGEMENT 2022 CPA $0.27 2022 Tax $27.03

Assessed to STEWART NORMAN And CAROLE STEWART

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 4863 Square Feet located and known as 20 WORCESTER AVE shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 35010 and being part of the premises recorded in book 10088 on page 0432 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds. 2022 CPA $29.98 2022 Tax $2,997.54 2022 Water Lien $87.41

Assessed To SUBA REAL ESTATE LLC

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 0 Square Feet located and known as 241 MAIN ST 6 shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 30659 and being part of the premises recorded in book 46783 on page 0101 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds.

Supposed Present Owner C/O SUEANNE DAVOOD & BABAK JOUHARI

Assessed To SUBA REAL ESTATE LLC

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 0 Square Feet located and known as 241 MAIN ST 5 shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 30658 and being part of the premises recorded in book 46783 on page 0101 in the

Middlesex Registry of Deeds.

Supposed Present Owner C/O SUEANNE

DAVOOD & BABAK JOUHARI 2022 CPA

Assessed To SUBA REAL ESTATE LLC

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 0 Square Feet located and known as 241 MAIN ST 4 shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 30657 and being part of the premises recorded in book 46783 on page 0097 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds.

Supposed Present Owner C/O SUEANNE DAVOOD & BABAK JOUARI 2022 CPA $18.97

$1,816.50

Assessed to TAVARES JOSE L And ISRALITA S TAVARES

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 8440 Square Feet located and known as 72 LINCOLN ST shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 19086 and being part of the premises recorded in book 11498 on page 0613 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds. 2022 Tax $11.99

Assessed to THE MARY C GIANT TRUST And MARY C GIANT TRUSTEE

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 17161 Square Feet located and known as 3 FORT MEADOW DR shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 54006 and being part of the premises recorded in book 66470 on page 0353 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds.

2022 CPA $27.67 2022 Tax $2,699.52

Assessed to THE THOMAS MORGAN LIVING TRUST And THOMAS MORGAN TRUSTEE

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 6720 Square Feet located and known as 11 LYMAN AVE shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 26046 and being part of the premises recorded in book 56837 on page 0589 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds. 2022 Tax $512.08

Assessed to TURTLE HILL REALTY TRUST And SUSAN OCONNOR TRUSTEE

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 40510 Square Feet located and known as 13 WHEELER RD shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 41016 and being part of the premises recorded in book 62507 on page 0265 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds. 2022 CPA $19.53 2022 Tax $1,937.81

Assessed To TYDM LLC

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 28750 Square Feet located and known as COOLIDGE ST shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 17040 and being part of the premises recorded in book 50817 on page 0046 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds. 2022 CPA $1.09

COMMUNITY CLASSIFIED

COMMUNITY OBITUARIES

Tile and Grout

Clinical Data Manager

BS+5 yrs. Use clinical data mgmt exp. & EDC to manage clinical data functions. Olympus Corporation. Westborough, MA. F/T. Hybridremote permitted. CV to OCArecruiting@ olympus.com & ref. Job#6663. No calls/agents. No visa sponsorship.

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).

• Expert Tile and Stone Installations

DEATHS

Paul E. Mayberry, 56

William B. French Jr., 81

• Shower Regrouts/ Waterproofing/repairs

Feeley, Mary of Marlborough

French Jr., William of Grafton

Garner, Cary of Northborough

• Floor Tile and Grout restoration

• 30 years exp

Groccia, Chris Ann of Shrewsbury Harrington III, Henry of Shrewsbury Marsden, Michael of Uxbridge/ Grafton

• A+ rating on Angie’s list Call or text Ryan for a free estimate @ 508-310-3812 Affordabletileandgrout.com

Mayberry, Paul of Hudson McMorrow, Michael of Marlborough Plaud, Henry of Shrewsbury Richardson, RGS, Sr. Agnes a

Contemplative Sister of the Good Shepherd

Richardson, Patricia formerly of Southborough

Rissmiller, Willard of Westborough

Rodrigues, Clara of Hudson

Schmidt Sr., Hans of North Grafton

Simopoulos, Aristotelis of Marlborough

Zilembo, Harriet of Marlborough

HUDSON - Of Hudson, formerly of Waltham, Paul Edward Mayberry passed away April 14, 2024 at UMass Memorial Medical Center - University Campus in Worcester at the age of 56. He leaves behind his beloved mother Maple Mayberry of Hudson, his father John Rankin of Birmingham, Alabama, and his loving brother Kevan Mayberry, and partner Tara Mayberry, of Clinton. In addition, Paul leaves behind his partner of over 10 years, Elizabeth Medeiros of Hudson, and her two daughters, Cyan Prather and Sarina Prather. Beyond family, Paul leaves behind an army of friends from Waltham and UMASS who will miss him dearly.

Brasco & Sons Memorial of Waltham assisted the family.

COMMUNITY CLASSIFIED

Virtusa Corporation

Virtusa Corporation has multiple openings for the following positions in Southborough, MA and other unanticipated locations across U.S.:

Lead Consultant – DevOps: Bach (or equiv obtained thru combo of edu/exper as determined by a reputable crdntls eval srvce) in CS, Elctrncs Engrng or rel fld +2yrs of dsgn & bld of systm networks supporting distrb dvlp Ref # VCS- 41.445.

GRAFTON - William B. French Jr., 81, died Monday, April 15, at St. Vincent Hospital in Worcester, after an illness. He was born in Worcester, son of William B. and Florence I. (Martin) French and lived most of his life in Grafton.

Bill leaves his wife of 44 years, Carol Ann Bohigian French; his sister Bonnie Jean Milberg of South Yarmouth; a niece Sybil Librandi and her husband Brian of Montgomery, N.Y.; a grandnephew Nicholas Librandi, and a grandniece Emily Librandi.

The Athy Memorial Home of Worcester assisted with arrangements.

Due to space constraints, this week’s remaining obituaries will be running online only. They can be found online at https://www.communityadvocate.com/category/obituaries/.

Corporation. Westborough, MA. F/T. Hybridremote

CV to OCArecruiting@ olympus.com & ref. Job#6663. No calls/agents. No visa sponsorship.

Manager / Business Analyst: Bach of Sci in CS, Elctrncs Engrng, IT or rel fld +5yrs prog pst bach IT exper incl 3+yrs of business systms analysis wrkng in a distrib environ; OR Master of Sci in CS, Elctrncs Engrng, IT or rel fld +of business systms analysis wrkng in a distrib environ. Ref #VIR - 49.686.

Senior Consultant – Salesforce: Bach in CS, Info Systms, Elctrncs Engrng or rel fld +5yrs prog pst bach IT exper, incl 2+yrs dvlp Salesforce.com CRM platforms wrkng in a globally distrib environ; OR Master’s in CS, Info Systms, Elctrncs Engrng or rel fld +2yrs dvlp Salesforce.com CRM platforms wrkng in a globally distrib environ. Ref #VIR - 1013. Java Analyst III: Bach in CS, Elctrncs Engrng or rel fld plus +5yrs prog pst bach distrib IT exper incl 3+yrs Java/J2EE exper wrkng in a distrib environ; OR Master’s CS, Elctrncs Engrng or rel fld +3yrs Java/J2EE exper wrkng in a distrib environ. Ref #VIR - 1026. For all positions, employee will work in various unanticipated locations in U.S., travel/relocation possible. Please email resumes to: apply@virtusa.com, making specific reference to the Ref # of the position you are applying to.

2022 Tax

$165.77

Assessed To VARNUM KENNETH A

A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, approximately 11400 Square

Feet located and known as 12 WEST AVE shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 35041 and being part of the premises recorded in book 18761 on page 0314 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds.

2021 Tax

Assessed To WAYNE FLAHERTY

$903.97

A condominium located and known as 8 SUMMER ST 2 shown on the Town of Hudson Assessors Records as Parcel Identifier 30681 and being part of the premises recorded in book 73562 on page 53 in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds.

2021 Tax

$30.83

SHREWBURY

The Town of Shrewsbury Public Buildings Division, 100 Maple Ave., Shrewsbury MA 01545 (“the Town”), invites the submission of quotes for Floral Street School Gymnasium Floor Replacement Project at 57 Floral Street, in the Town of Shrewsbury. The quote form and specifications may be obtained by visiting the Town’s website www.shrewsburyma.gov/bids, beginning on 5/1/2024. A voluntary Pre-Bid Conference/Walk Through will be held at 57 Floral Street, beginning at 3:45 PM on 5/9/2024. Responses will be received 1:00 PM local time, 5/16/2024; by mailing quotes to the Town Manager’s office at 100 Maple Ave., Shrewsbury MA 01545, with submissions clearly marked “Quote for Floral Street School Gym Replacement”. 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.

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY

ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

PUBLIC HEARINGS

RICHARD D. CARNEY

MUNICIPAL OFFICE BUILDING

100 MAPLE AVENUE

SHREWSBURY, MA

May 23, 2024 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Bradford Rheault of 20 Mann St #3, Worcester, MA 01602 for a Special Permit and Variance to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section IV.B and Section II to construct an in-law apartment in a detached accessory structure upon property located at 28 Ridgeland Road in the Residence B-2 zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Asses-

sor’s Tax Plate 39 Plot 021000.

May 23, 2024 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Mark Peris of 19 Ashwood Circle, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 for a Variance to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII.B (10) to create a lot with a Lot Shape Factor of “.41” where a minimum of “.45” is required upon property located at 13 John Street in the Residence B-2 zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 45 Plot 019001.

May 23, 2024 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of L. Bryan Cheshire of 11 Lexington Road, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 for a Special Permit to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section IV-B to remove and replace an existing carport three feet and 4 tenths feet (3.4’) from the side yard where twenty feet (20’) is required upon property located at 11 Lexington Road in the Residence A zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 26 Plot 110047.

Peter C. Mulcahy, Clerk

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY

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 Srini Ramkumar, 31 Pal Drive, Shrewsbury, MA, has filed an Abbreviated Notice of Intent for the removal of trees and the restoration of plantings at 31 Pal Drive.

A public hearing will be held on the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, May 14, 2024, in Side A of the Conference Room at Shrewsbury Senior Center, 98 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.

SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION

Kenneth Polito, Chairman

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY 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 Zahra Sheikh, 18 Appaloosa Drive, Shrewsbury MA 01545 has filed an Abbreviated Notice of Intent for the construction of a home addition and the installation of a shed at 18 Appaloosa Drive.

A public hearing will be held on the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, May 14, 2024, in Side A of the Conference Room at Shrewsbury Senior Center, 98 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.

SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION

Kenneth Polito, Chairman

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY 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 Bobby Malhotra, 46 Deerfield Road, Shrewsbury MA 01545 has filed a Notice of Intent for the demolition of a single-family home and the construction of a two-family home at 422 South Quinsigamond Avenue.

A public hearing will be held on the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, May 14, 2024, in Side A of the Conference Room at Shrewsbury Senior Center, 98 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.

SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION

Kenneth Polito, Chairman

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY 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 Richard Luzzo, 346 Walnut Street, Shrewsbury MA 01545 has filed an Request for Determination of Applicability for the installation of a sewer line at 344 & 346 Walnut Street.

A public hearing will be held on the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, May 14, 2024, in Side A of the Conference Room at Shrewsbury Senior Center, 98 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.

SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION

Kenneth Polito, Chairman

WESTBOROUGH

LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE OF INTENT

WESTBOROUGH, MA

In accordance with the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, MGL Chapter 131, Section 40, and the Westborough Wetlands Protection Bylaw, the Conservation Commission will conduct a Public Hearing to be held on Tuesday, May 14, 2024 after 6:30 PM at the Forbes Municipal Building, 3rd Fl meeting room, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA, for a Notice of Intent for 101-105 Flanders Rd. (Parcel ID: 29-4-0 & 29-5-0) filed by Gary Orlando for a proposed commercial building with contractor’s yard with associated grading and stormwater infrastructure within jurisdictional resources areas.

LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE OF INTENT

WESTBOROUGH, MA

In accordance with the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, MGL Chapter 131, Section 40, and the Westborough Wetlands Protection Bylaw, the Conservation Commission will conduct a Public Hearing to be held on Tuesday, May 14, 2024 after 6:30 PM at the Forbes Municipal Building, 3rd Fl meeting room, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA, for a Notice of Intent for 117 Adams St. (Parcel ID: 4-206-0) filed by William & Andrea Walters in response to an enforcement order for landscaping work, including extending the height of the retaining wall as well as filling and grading the front yard area within jurisdictional resources areas.

LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REQUEST FOR DETERMINATION OF APPLICABILITY

WESTBOROUGH, MA

In accordance with the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, MGL Chapter 131, Section 40, and the Westborough Wetlands Protection Bylaw, the Conservation Commission will conduct a Public Hearing held on Tuesday, May 14, 2024 after 6:30 PM at the Forbes Municipal Building, 3rd Fl meeting room, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA, for a Request for Determination of Applicability for 0 Dr. Solomon Carter Fuller Wy. (Parcel ID: 38-1FB-0) submitted by Town of Westborough Dept. of Recreation for proposed redevelopment of site as a public dog park with associated fencing, pea stone surfacing, paved walkways, parking area, stormwater and landscaping within jurisdictional resource areas.

LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REQUEST FOR DETERMINATION OF APPLICABILITY

WESTBOROUGH, MA

In accordance with the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, MGL Chapter 131, Section 40, and the Westborough Wetlands Protection Bylaw, the Conservation Commission will conduct a Pub-

lic Hearing held on Tuesday, May 14, 2024 after 6:30 PM at the Forbes Municipal Building, 3rd Fl meeting room, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA, for a Request for Determination of Applicability for 160 Flanders Rd. (Parcel ID: 30-10A-0) submitted by Chapel of the Cross for proposed replacement of playground structure and associated fence and landscaping within jurisdictional resource areas.

LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REQUEST FOR DETERMINATION OF APPLICABILITY

WESTBOROUGH, MA

In accordance with the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, MGL Chapter 131, Section 40, and the Westborough Wetlands Protection Bylaw, the Conservation Commission will conduct a Public Hearing held on Tuesday, May 14, 2024 after 6:30 PM at the Forbes Municipal Building, 3rd Fl meeting room, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA, for a Request for Determination of Applicability for 22 Mountain View Dr. (Parcel ID: 8-146-0) submitted by Jonathan Fox for proposed construction of 20’ x 16’ addition with walkout basement within jurisdictional resource areas.

LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REQUEST FOR DETERMINATION OF APPLICABILITY WESTBOROUGH, MA

In accordance with the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, MGL Chapter 131, Section 40, and the Westborough Wetlands Protection Bylaw, the Conservation Commission will conduct a Public Hearing held on Tuesday, May 14, 2024 after 6:30 PM at the Forbes Municipal Building, 3rd Fl meeting room, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA, for a Request for Determination of Applicability for 14 Walkup Dr. (Parcel ID: 30-440) submitted by Cytiva (c/o Filippe Ruas) for proposed construction of 28’x16’ concrete pad in existing lawn within jurisdictional resource areas.

Northborough, Southborough candidates make their case for election

Candidates | from page 11 who want to downsize. We need a “consider all options” approach to increasing the diversity and affordability of our housing stock.

Northborough Planning Board (Vote

for 2)

Kerri Martinek (Incumbent)

Why are you running?

I’m running for re-election to the Planning Board because I love this town and I want it to be a place where people want to raise their families, start a business, or age in place and enjoy retirement. Since 2018, I’ve taken the time to research issues, study impact, listen to the residents of all ages, attend trainings on planning best practices, collaborate with regional planning experts and more. I’d like to build on this experience and knowledge to continue to move Northborough forward in the right direction. We are at a critical point with our Downtown Revitalization Plan and I think I have the right blend of knowledge, passion, historical experience/content, and love for Northborough to continue this pursuit and execute on our plans.

What are the three biggest issues facing the Northborough Planning Board in order of importance?

The three biggest issues facing the Planning Board:

1. Updating our bylaws – as we head into significant downtown planning, we need bylaws that support the vision. We also need to modernize our bylaws to account for how much zoning and the world around us have changed since the last major overhaul in 2009.

2. Industrial zoning – although certain forces have slowed down the progression of warehouses and distribution uses in our town, we still need a better resolution for what belongs in our industrial zones, and how we can better soften the

transition in areas where residential abuts industrial.

3. Regional collaboration –it’s a small world when it comes down to it, and certainly a small region. We’re all facing similar challenges and often connected by the same roads, waterways, and systems. We’d be stronger if we could collaborate more with our neighboring towns to tackle some of the broader challenges, including issues like trucking and distribution. Beyond challenges, this includes applying for more regional state grants!

Anthony Ziton (Incumbent)

Why are you running I’m running for reelection to the Planning Board to continue representing the desires of the residents, enforce our established bylaws, support projects aligned with our master plan, promote open space initiatives while safeguarding our water resources.

What are the three biggest issues facing the Northborough Planning Board in order of importance?

The three biggest issues facing the Northborough Planning board are related to affordable housing, limited build out space, and ongoing efforts to protect groundwater.

1. Staying above the 10% affordable housing limit. Falling below 10% would subject Northborough to 40B state rules which would allow developers to bypass most local zoning laws and develop however they choose. I will continue to foster and promote housing development including 40B requirements that benefit the community at large.

1. As we near build out, we need to attract uses and businesses that will benefit the community. By focusing on using the remaining space effectively, we will be able to maximize the impact to the town.

1. Protecting our groundwater remains a top priority. With all development, we need to consider the impact on

our wetlands and protect them. Along with this, we need to ensure our bylaws are up to the current standards to protect our natural resources.

Northborough School Committee (Vote for

2)

Lauren Bailey-Jones (Incumbent)

Why are you running?

I’m seeking re-election for Northborough’s School Committee to ensure our schools continue to provide a high level of education and services to our students through passing fiscally responsible budgets and robust policy. My passion for education, as a middle school educator myself, is my main motivation for running. Additionally, I am running for my children who haven’t entered school yet. In my work on school committee, I often think two decades into the future when my two young children will be graduating and how the school district will grow to meet the needs of students throughout the next ten or twenty years.

What are the three biggest issues facing the Northborough School Committee in order of importance?

Student Mental and Behavioral Health – Declining student behavioral and mental health is a complex issue requiring collaboration between families, local resources, and school staff.

Budget Constraints – Unanticipated budget constraints impede the School Committee’s ability to address some of the annual budget goals in a timely manner. Inflation, transportation, energy costs, and out-of-district tuition have impacted recent budgets. Collaboration with Town management and taxpayers, working with state representatives to advocate for more state funding, and re-thinking our financial landscape will be necessary in the future.

Long-term Capital Investments – Aging school build-

ings and infrastructure need updates, repairs, and renovations. Peaslee Elementary School is the next major longterm capital investment the district is focusing on, with a feasibility study approved at town meeting. Other buildings are in need of roof repairs, and continuous updates to schools is vital to maintain safe spaces for students and staff.

Kelly Guenette (Incumbent)

Why are you running?

I’ve had the privilege for the past 6 years serving on the School Committee to help make our schools a place where students feel included while gaining a well rounded education. I am proud of the achievements we have made over the years, but I am also well aware of the work still to be done in order to further enhance the learning experience. I am running for re-election because my work is not done! I want to continue representing our community, be approachable to parents, teachers, staff, and residents with their feedback in order to ensure their voices are included in decisions impacting our schools. I am as passionate about the work we are doing as I was when I began 6 years ago. I know the work it takes to get things done, as well as the level of involvement and time it takes to serve effectively on the Committee. I am so proud of the impactful work I have been a part of over the past 6 years. I want to continue helping the Northborough school community to ensure our students receive the best possible educational experience.

What are the three biggest issues facing the Northborough School Committee in order of importance?

Several issues impact the quality of education. Budget constraints are a chief concern. We have worked diligently with administrators to create operating budgets which support the needs of our schools while balancing against economic challenges and the impact on Northborough residents. As school needs evolve,

ensuring that we are maximizing every dollar is one of my primary concerns. Also, ensuring that we retain and develop the amazing educators and support staff we have is paramount. We are blessed to have a group of dedicated, compassionate school community members which help protect and develop our children. I want to support them while also expanding our community of educators to better reflect the community. Lastly, many of our school buildings are aging and in desperate need of improvements in order to provide a safe, stimulating atmosphere. I am proud of the capital improvements we have made to several of our schools, and I will work tirelessly to further update the schools in need of improvements as we move forward.

Gigi Lisa Howell

Why are you running?

I would love the opportunity as a committee member to bring my unique talents and experience to the table to assist in collaborating with the current team. If voted in, I will be able to ensure the parents of Northborough have a voice and are included in all decision making across the board. Most importantly, when I cast my vote on pending matters, it is on behalf of what the parents want, not solely off personal or someone else’s one-track agenda.

What are the three biggest issues facing the Northborough School Committee in order of importance?

The biggest issue facing Northborough School Commitee at this time is diversity amongst its committee members. Each member currently is from the same school district, all from one neighborhood. Not sure that qualifies for equity, diversity and fair representation to all.

Second issue Northborough School Committee faces is communication and the delivery of getting vital information out to the parents within our community. Lastly, the

COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

Shrewsbury, Algonquin students visit Polar Park for ‘Senior Scoop’

By Evan Walsh Reporter

WORCESTER – Many people flock to Polar Park to watch baseball, but hundreds of high school students recently learned that the stadium can also become a business destination.

On April 23, roughly 300 Central Massachusetts students visited the home of the Worcester Red Sox to meet with local businesses and explore post-secondary education options. The businesses at the “Senior Scoop” were eager to meet fresh talent, while students looked forward to participating in interviews, networking, career exploration and interactive activities led by prominent Massachusetts business and workforce professionals.

Approximately 60 businesses attended the event.

Several dozen Shrewsbury

High School and Algonquin Regional High School students traveled together to the event, which was organized by the Blackstone Valley Hub for Workforce Development.

“It is critically important to provide high school students with a multitude of lifelong opportunities that encourage

Shrewsbury students pose for a photo before heading to Polar Park. (Photo/Evan Walsh)

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them to explore a variety of career options. Every moment of every experience provides students with information about themselves and their interests that they may not otherwise have discovered if they had not been afforded

these opportunities and career exposure,” Shrewsbury Assistant Superintendent for Community Partnerships and Well-Being Jane Lizotte said.

“‘Senior Scoop’ highlights the importance of connecting students with employers

looking to hire them right out of high school,” Algonquin Career Exploration and Innovation Leader Michelle Kaelin added. “Often students don’t realize the range of entry-level positions they’re qualified for as high school graduates. As a school, we’re committed to exposing students to all of their options in order to make thoughtful decisions for the future.”

For Shrewsbury High School students like senior Michael O’Toole, the event was the perfect opportunity to look at different career options and potentially find a career path.

“I don’t really have much of a plan in terms of college or a job after high school that will push me forward in life. I’m just trying to see what’s going on. There’s definitely some interesting companies there. I’m not really too sure what to expect to be honest with you, but I know there’s a lot of different companies, and I expect to find some that I’m maybe interested in,” he told the Community Advocate prior to attending the event.

O’Toole also said he was grateful to Shrewsbury High School for providing him with the opportunity.

In addition to the students, several guidance counselors and other Shrewsbury staff headed to Polar Park to attend the event.

“I think it shows that Shrewsbury High School cares about their students after high school. Even if it gets one person a job, it helps out. Even if it helps people understand what they don’t want to do — it’s still valuable,” O’Toole said.

Shrewsbury Assistant Superintendent for Community Partnerships and Well-Being Jane Lizotte speaks to students prior to their visit to Polar Park.

(Photo/Evan Walsh)

MHS staff say goodbye to beards following successful fundraiser

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – For three members of the Marlborough High School faculty, it was time to face the music.

After their students raised more than $13,000 from selling popcorn, band and orchestra director Angie Crockwell; marching band James Verdone; and a cappella choir director Caleb Whelden climbed the Little Theater stage on April 22 to receive their rewards.

For Crockwell, it was getting a shaving-cream pie in the face from one of her students.

“It was messy, but it was for a good cause,” she said.

Verdone and Whelden had their facial hair removed by none other than Mayor J. Christian Dumais.

“Whatever motivates the students,” said Whelden, who began growing his beard during the COVID-19 pandemic and decided to keep it — until now.

For Verdone, it was the

Health and wellness fair at HHS

HUDSON – Hudson Public Schools is getting ready for its annual free Health and Wellness Fair on May 7 between 5 to 8 p.m. at Hudson High School.

The fair will feature a number of tables and booths providing information and services related to health insurance, a vaccine clinic, vision and dental screenings, mental health resources, immigration and visa resources, family and housing assistance, food and community resources, local businesses, restaurants and a clothing drive.

There will also be organizations such as Hudson Youth Baseball and Softball, Hudson Youth Football and Cheerleading and the Boys and Girls Clubs.

The fair is open to all families, students and the community. It will also include raffles, food and music.

third time he’s been clean shaven since 2004. He first lost his beard when the Patriots lost the Super Bowl in 2007 and again in 2016 as a result of another school fundraiser.

The music department is planning another fundraiser — a “May the 4th Be with You Breakfast” on Saturday, May 4, from 9 a.m. to noon at Goodnow Brothers Elementary School, 441 Bolton St.

Dress as your favorite “Star Wars” character. In addition to food, there will be “Star Wars”-themed activities, along with student performances.

Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for students and seniors. Children 3 years of age and younger are free. All proceeds will benefit the music department’s trip to Hershey, Pennsylvania, in 2025.

Marlborough High marching band director James Verdone has a post-pie chat with band and orchestra director Angie Crockwell on April 22 in the MHS Little Theater. She was hit by a pie as a part of a student fundraiser.

Mayor J. Christian Dumais, right, gives a cappella choir director Caleb Whelden a nice close shave on April 22 at the MHS Little Theater. Whelden had his beard shaved off because MHS music students managed to raise more than $13,000 from selling popcorn.

(Photos/Maureen Sullivan)

By Evan Walsh Reporter

MARLBOROUGH – Marlborough’s Shauna Bopp came to play last Wednesday afternoon.

On April 24, the Marlborough Panthers and Algonquin Titans met at Marlborough’s turf field for an afternoon softball matchup. While Algonquin kept the game close until the final out, Bopp’s pitching proved to be the difference as the Panthers defeated the Titans, 5-2, to move to 5-3 on the season.

Bopp retired the first 14 Algonquin batters and had a perfect opening 4.2 innings. In that span, the Marlborough junior retired batters in just about every way, striking out two — one looking, one swinging — while earning seven flyouts and five groundouts. Bopp also got it done at the plate, slapping a single into the outfield in the second inning.

“She’s super important. Both of our pitchers can hit and play the field. We get them in our lineup no matter what. Shauna is a cool cucumber.

She always stays composed in moments like that. She’s like a silent leader for the girls,” Marlborough Head Coach Michaella DaSilva told the Community Advocate after the game.

Marlborough’s Shauna Bopp delivers the pitch.

(Photo/Evan Walsh)

re-emerged, and the game was back on.

“We did a really good job of playing a lot cleaner than we have defensively… For Shauna to go from the rain delay, then to go out there while it was still raining and have the ball be wet. She didn’t have a walk the whole game, and then she had two after that. It’s tough; mentally, it’s tough. But, I think she did a really great job and finished the game out,” DaSilva said.

Bopp pitched all seven innings for the Panthers.

Algonquin threatened once more in the sixth, and after two back-to-back seventh-inning singles, the tying run came to plate. The next three batters all made weak contact, flying out, grounding out and flying out to end the game.

“[Seder] swings hard. Her and Katherine really hack and it shows. They bring in a lot of runs for us,” DaSilva said.

After Algonquin pitcher Emily Ruiz held off the Panthers in the first two innings, Marlborough’s offense got rolling. After opening the third inning with two walks, sophomore Erin Seder’s bases-clearing double put the Panthers ahead 2-0. The next batter, Catherine Seay, would add another run with her RBI single.

Seder (2-4, 3RBI) and Seay (2-4, HR, 2 RBI) drove in every Marlborough run. In the fifth inning, Seay’s inside-the-park home run scored the Panthers’ fourth run. In the sixth inning, Seder’s RBI single gave her team an important insurance run.

Although the Algonquin offense was silent over the first half of the game, the team’s bats woke up. Three straight hits — a single from Ruiz, a double from Hannah Dunleavy and another single from Jessilyn Baez — pushed two runs across the plate in the top half of the fifth inning.

The Titans tried to pick up where they left off the next inning, but their plans were complicated by an uninvited guest: the rain. While weather didn’t compromise the Marlborough High School turf playing surface, it also didn’t help the pitchers, who couldn’t get a good grip on the damp ball. After about 15 minutes of pouring rain, the sun (somewhat)

“It was a great game. We left a lot of runners on base, but it was a very competitive softball game. We were in it until the very end. I think both sides played really good defense today and both pitchers did a good job. The timely hitting was key today. We just didn’t have enough runners on base,” Algonquin Head Coach Kristen Morcone said.

And while last Wednesday’s result wasn’t what she had hoped for, she’s looking forward to what lies ahead with her team.

“I’m very excited. We definitely turned a corner from last year, and our team has come so far. I have a lot of confidence. I have 19 girls who can be huge contributors every day and we’re in a lot more softball games this year. I’m excited for the future,” she said.

Northborough, Southborough candidates make their case for election

Candidates | from page 27 method of obtaining parents input and feedback is lacking. We can do better and need to hold ourselves as committee members to a higher standard by evaluating ourselves and modifying our current methods on feedback regarding what the parents want.

Regional School Committee (Vote

for 2)

Kathleen Howland (Incumbent)

Why are you running?

I went to the Women’s March 6 years ago and we were all, 100,000 of us on the Boston Common, encouraged to do something. I never thought I would run for public office but in that moment, I felt the opportunity to serve in this capacity. I am still intrigued six years later by the requirements of the job- to oversee and approve budgets, to evaluate the superintendent and approve policies. In this context, I get to speak to my strengths which include stress biology, positive psychology, the value of the arts and human growth and development. As a college professor, I am able to observe generational patterns of engagement. In an age where Siri can answer most questions for us, I have to question the value of memorization versus deductive reasoning. How do

we teach students subjects that advance students’ abilities to identify problems, generate possible responses to the problem and evaluate the efficacy of the chosen solution.

What are the three biggest issues facing the Regional School Committee in order of importance?

psychological well-being, managing changes in enrollment, compensation for learning and development gaps post-Covid

Gigi Lisa Howell

Why are you running?

I would love the opportunity as a committee member to bring my unique talents and experience to the table to assist in collaborating with the current team. If voted in, I will be able to ensure the parents of Northborough have a voice and are included in all decision making across the board. Most importantly, when I cast my vote on pending matters, it is on behalf of what the parents want, not solely off personal or someone else’s one-track agenda.

What are the three biggest issues facing the Regional School Committee in order of importance?

The current committee is doing good work; I would like to see more of a solid foundation that will nurture our current conducive growth within our schools, including updated

security. I would like to see a stronger harmonious relationship between school committees to enhance and improve Northborough’s standards with competing towns. Lastly, I would like to see the regional school committee conduct more self-evaluation of their effectiveness in reaching their goals regarding performance and upholding the role within the public-school governance.

Christopher Lacasse

Why are you running?

My main goal is to make sure that Algonquin maintains a level of excellence that members of the town expect, and look for ways to improve upon that. We should look to any of our neighboring towns who are excelling and understand how we could improve our own offerings or other aspects of our high school system. I have three children who will be entering Algonquin soon and I want to make sure that my views and the views of my like-minded neighbors are represented. I want to make sure that Algonquin stays on the right path and we focus on what is most important for our children being successful in the world.

What are the three biggest issues facing the Regional School Committee in order of importance?

The three biggest issues facing the Regional School Committee in order of impor-

tance are budgeting, guidance on setting new policies, and transportation. The budget is one of the main tools that the Regional School Committee can use to help provide direction. This can be with regards to course offerings or other amenities that could help prepare Algonquin students for the next step on their journey. As each child’s educational needs are different, a breadth of support is required to meet these needs, while still providing depth in areas to al-

low our children to excel.

As the social landscape continues to evolve, we will have to make sure that Algonquin policies are in place to encourage education and mold wellrounded individuals who will be self sufficient adults.

Our school transportation solution has been less than ideal over the last several years. The contract with NRT will be ending in the coming years and the Regional School Committee will be involved in evaluating the next steps.

Learn to photograph flowers

NORTHBOROUGH – The Northborough Garden Club will be hosting a presentation entitled “How to Photograph Flowers” on May 4 at 1 p.m. at the Northborough Historical Society. Prism Point Photography’s Jeanine Vitale will instruct attendees on the fundamentals of composition, light, angles, background and more. Vitale will also cover how to use your cell phone camera’s professional features.

A $5 donation at the door is suggested for non-members. Visit https://www.northboroughgardenclub.com to register.

grate·ful (greyt-fuhl) adj. 1. Appreciative of benefits received; thankful. 2. Expressing gratitude. 3. Affording pleasure of comfort; agreeable [< obs. grate, pleasing < Lat. gratus]

Remember, if you are criticizing, you are not being grateful. If you are blaming, you are not being grateful. If you are complaining, you are not being grateful. If you are feeling tension, you are not being grateful. If you are rushing, you are not being grateful. If you are in a bad mood, you are not being grateful.

Gratitude can transform your life. Are you allowing minor things to get in the way of your transformation and the life you deserve?

Sponsored by Chief Joseph Robert J. Terkanian P.O. Box 808 • Northborough, MA 01532