MH 240531

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – Amended plans for the former Rowe Funeral Home on Main Street are making their way through municipal boards.

On Thursday, May 16, the City Council’s Urban Affairs Committee heard more details about the revised application for a site plan review from Procopio Companies, on behalf of JW Capital Partners LLC and Marlborough TOTG.

“We’re really excited to bring the project forward,” said David Roache, vice president of development for Procopio Companies. “We do think it’s a better project.”

The original plans called for the demolition of the funeral home and the construction of a mixed-use development containing 99 units and 28 parking spaces. The project was approved with amendments last year, leading to an appeal of the decision by the developers.

Roache said the architecture in the original plan was “rather bland,” which gave Procopio the opportunity to use “higher-quality materials” for its revamp of the project.

There will be a total of 132 bedrooms in 92 units, all apartments. As of now, the units will rent at market rate.

Roache said the charging stations for electric vehicles will be on the lowest level.

The applicants plan improvements to Exchange and High streets, which abut the

Panthers and Hawks work together on Hudson boys lacrosse team marlborough | 11 hudson | 23

Council denies request to add communications director to budget

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

MARLBOROUGH – Marlborough community members lined Main Street on May 27 to watch the Memorial Day parade.

After laying wreaths at each monument, the parade ended at the Civil War Monument at the intersection of Main and Mechanic streets. This was Mayor J. Christian Dumais’ first Memorial Day celebration as mayor.

Over the last several days, Dumais joined TJX Companies, Boy Scout Troop 41, city officials and Marlborough residents to place flags at veterans’ graves.

“It was a simple task, but one that was incredibly moving,” he said. “When I was making my way around to each grave, I couldn’t help but wonder the story of each veteran.”

He said he wondered what they experienced, who they encountered, were they afraid, who did they save, did they have a family and what called them to enlist.

Sections of HPL addition have moved up to 2.5 inches

By Sarah Freedman Contributing Writer

HUDSON – Four months ago, at the Jan. 22 meeting of the Select Board, Library Director Aileen Sanchez-Himes introduced the possibility of applying for a library construction grant with the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) in order to address the

structural issues at the Hudson Public Library.

At Town Meeting a capital request of $150,000, which is a requirement of the MBLC, was approved. In January, Sanchez-Himes noted that the state could offer 50%, up to the amount of $100,000, toward the planning and design of a construction project.

At the May 20 Select Board meeting, the

Veterans bow their heads as “Taps” is played near the POW/MIA memorial. (Photo/ Laura Hayes)

Dauphinais beats Mead for Grafton Select Board seat

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

GRAFTON – Craig Dauphinais

will return to the Select Board, according to official results from the town clerk’s office.

He edged incumbent Raymond Mead, 1,300 to 1,202, in the annual Town Election on Tuesday, May 21.

The School Committee will see a new face, as Kristy Ann Kielbasinski nosed out incumbent Elizabeth Spinney, 1,125 to 1,118. Kielbasinski will join incumbent Laura Often, who was the top vote-getter with 1,364. The other races were uncontested.

Robert Hassinger and Justin Wood were re-elected to the

Planning Board; Douglas Bowman, Aaron Vandesteen and Christopher Beltz will serve another term on the Library Board of Trustees. Shawn McAvey was elected to the vacant seat on the Housing Authority.

On the two ballot questions, voters approved the town’s share of expenses for the Blackstone Valley Tech roof recon-

struction and replacement, and the purchase of a new fire truck.

Official results

Select Board (one seat, threeyear term) – Craig Dauphinais 1,300, Raymond Mead 1,202 School Committee (two seats, three-year term) – Laura Often 1,364, Kristy Ann Kielbasinski 1,125, Elizabeth Spinney

1,118, Craig Juelis 935

Planning Board (two seats, three-year term) – Robert Hassinger 1,714, Justin Wood 1,688 Board of Library Trustees (three seats, three-year term) – Douglas Bowman 1,734, Christopher Beltz 1,594, Aaron Vandesteen 1,587

Housing Authority (one seat, three-year term, to fill a vacancy) – Shawn McAvey, 1,847

Question #1 (BVT roof) – Yes 1,442, No 904

Question #2 (fire engine) –Yes 1,525, No 830

UniBank holds annual meeting

SUTTON – UniBank recently held their annual meeting at Pleasant Valley Country Club in Sutton.

CEO Michael Welch said the meeting was a “great night of celebration and reflection on the entire past year of the Bank.”

“We reported on our financial strength, our community giving both financially and through volunteerism, and being well-positioned to assist consumers and businesses throughout Central Mass. With their financial needs through 2024,” said Welch.

The keynote speaker was Andrew Calamare, who has been in the banking industry for over 40 years. Cara Brindisi, a singer originally from Shrewsbury and was featured on “The Voice,” performed.

“As the Annual Meeting is the closing of the prior year, it’s also the springboard for the next year as it sets the vision to propel our mission to be the best mutually owned community bank in Central Massachusetts again,” said Welch.

UniBank is rooted in the Blackstone Valley with assets of $2.5 billion as of December 31. A full-service, mutually owned community bank, UniBank has branches in Central Massachusetts and the MetroWest region of Massachusetts. UniBank is dedicated to contributing to the overall quality of life and economic health of the communities it serves, while maintaining a high level of financial soundness and integrity. UniBank is an Equal Housing Lender and Member FDIC. UniBank NMLS #583135.

For more information, visit www.unibank.com.

Dear Editor,

I was so happy that the Middlesex and Worcester Senior Conference returned on April 18th at Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School in Marlborough, with 300+ seniors from across the district in attendance. Seniors who attended the conference had access to a multitude of workshops, health screenings, information tables, yoga, Zumba, an art workshop, and of course, our raffle prizes! They also enjoyed a complimentary breakfast and lunch and performances by local Marlborough band ‘The Romeos Duo’, and my friends, pianists April Feng and Fumika Mizuno.

I am deeply grateful to the Assabet Valley Superintendent, principal, and students for their warm welcome and support to the seniors at the conference. I also want to thank our corporate sponsors: Point32Health, Ken’s Dressings and Sauces, Christopher Heights, Walmart, MetroWest Medical Center, New Horizons, Fallon Health, Cooperative Credit Unions, Boston Scientific, Blue Cross Blue Shield Massachusetts, Avidia Bank, Durand Anastas Environmental Strategies, and Whittier Rehab. I appreciate the incredible vendors who offered valuable information to the attending seniors and the companies and agencies who provided raffle prizes.

Thank you once again for attending this wonderful event. I hope you can join us next year for the 44th Annual Senior Conference. If you have ideas for new sessions, programming, or entertainment, please be in touch with my office at James.Eldridge@MaSenate.Gov

Very Truly Yours, James B. Eldridge State Senator Middlesex & Worcester District

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ASSISTANT EDITOR: Maureen Sullivan

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REPORTER: Evan Walsh

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: Debra Roberts

ADVERTISING DEPT: Diane Sabatini | 508.366.5500

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS: Ellen Bishop Lynne Fountain

The Community Advocate is a weekly periodical, (U.S.P.S. # 014-423), published by Bagdon Advertising, Inc., with offices located at 32 South Street, Westborough, MA 01581. Periodicals postage is paid at Shrewsbury, MA 01546 and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Please send address changes to: Community Advocate, 32 South Street, Westborough, MA 01581. Publication date is Friday. Deadline for R.O.P. advertising, local community news and classified advertising is Friday, noon, seven days prior to publication. Not liable for typographical errors, however, we will reprint that portion of the ad wherein error occurred if notified in writing within three working days of the publication date. All material included is the property of The Community Advocate and may include material produced under copyright or a syndicated ad service. Permission must be obtained in writing before reproducing any material from any issue of the Community Advocate.

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NORTHBOROUGH – This drone photograph shows the intersection of Route 9 and Lawrence Street. To the north of Lawrence Street is Peterson Oil Service, Motel 6 and Casa Vallarta. The Select Board recently did not voice its support to apply for a grant that would extend public sewer down Lawrence Street to Route 9. (Photo/Tami White)

Ryan Maloney, owner

5 TIPS FOR DRONE SAFETY THIS SUMMER

By Evan Walsh, Reporter

SHREWSBURY – Although hundreds of Shrewsbury residents gathered around the Town Common, it was almost completely silent.

The crowd quietly observed as Ashley Gerstel laid a wreath in front of the veterans memorial by the Shrewsbury Public Library. As the wreath was laid, two Shrewsbury High School students played “Taps” to mark the occasion.

That moment in the Town Center was just one of many ceremonies held in Shrewsbury on May 27, as the town marked Memorial Day with a parade, speeches, and other events meant to honor the sacrifices made by those killed in the line of duty.

“For many, Memorial Day means the unofficial start of summer. For others, Memorial Day is a time to remember friends and family who have passed away. For all, it is about honoring and mourning the military personnel who have died while performing their duties to the United States,” Select Board Chair John Samia said.

Samia joined his Select Board colleagues and Rep. Hannah Kane (RShrewsbury) in front of the Soldiers’ Memorial at Town Hall. The group, led by master of ceremonies Maj. John Travers, delivered opening remarks to officially start the parade.

“My earliest memories of Memorial Day are the many flags adorning our homes, our cemeteries, and our parades. From a young age, I always

understood our flag to represent the very best our country has to offer. I understood that our flag stood as a visual reminder of all the faces I would never see, of all the patriots I would never meet. It stood for all who made their last stand defending freedom. Our flag, in all its glory, is an enduring symbol of… strength and resolve — that our long-lost are never long-forgotten,” Kane said.

At the Town Center, John Griffin delivered the Memorial Day address. Griffin, a 30-year veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps who moved to Shrewsbury in 2013, has been to 26 countries, earned three master’s degrees and recently completed his doctorate degree.

“I think it’s important to know that today is not about those of us who served in uniform. Today is about those who died wearing the uniform… For me, that number is 21 — 21 American citizens that I knew personally who were killed in combat. My best friend, my good friends, colleagues, classmates, Marines, sailors, soldiers that I was friends with. It’s a brutal number, but it’s not uncommon. Despite all this, our feelings don’t begin to compare to what the families of the fallen are experiencing today. And, quite frankly, every day,” Griffin said.

The parade included the Shrewsbury Police Department, Shrewsbury Fire Department, several local Scout troops, Victor R. Quaranta American Legion Post 397, Veterans Inc., and Oak Middle School’s band.

Members of the Shrewsbury Fire Department stand in front of the Shrewsbury Public Library.

(Photo/Evan Walsh)

Cub Scouts march in the Memorial Day parade. (Photo/Evan Walsh)

Sections of HPL addition have moved up to 2.5 inches, says assessment

Library | from page 1

board voted to confirm the site options for a potential library expansion or construction at 2-4 Washington St. and 8 River St., as it was needed to apply for the MBLC grant.

When the question of whether the town is building a new library came up, Select Board Chair Scott Duplisea clarified they were looking at the fact there is a building with structural problems that the town needs to examine.

“This is just preliminary right now. We had to know where we stood. We had to get this done,” said Duplisea.

Sanchez-Himes said they want to ideally stay at their current location, but they do have to consider a second location in the grant application.

She said, “Our hope is that with everything that we present to the state that we ultimately stay where we are.”

Conditions assessment

Also during the meeting, Sanchez-Himes and Marie Sorenson, a lead designer and architect at Sorenson Partners, presented the data from the conditions assessment and what options the town had in terms of addressing the issue at hand.

Sanchez-Himes said the library has been working with Sorenson since last fall to complete the assessment. Sorenson surveyed the original library building that was built in 1904 and the 1966 addition, highlighting the major findings from the report.

“The good news is that a portion of the library is sitting on part ledge, and so it has a pretty stable foundation. It’s sitting there pretty solidly,” said Sorenson.

She noted there is energy inefficiency within the building, and the wiring is old. The flat roof also has leaks, and the handicapped accessibility is limited due to the front steps and a side ramp that is too steep. In terms of the building addition, it was not constructed on a suitable foundation system, in which the subgrade is not suitable to the standard required by working licensed structural engineers. The foundation has settled differentially, causing cracking of the façade and building movement in sections of the north stair tower and expansion joint to the original building.

The addition was “designed by two local architects” at the time, she said.

According to Tripi Engineering Services and McPhail Associates, there has been movement of up to 2.5 inches in the addition. The settlement of the ground floor foundations is understood to have caused repeated bursting and cracking of heating steam pipes that are attached to the structure.

She said the settlement was observed to be two inches over 15 feet by a contractor, and in almost 60 years the effects of the settlement have been seen in the past 10 to 20 years.

Sorenson expressed concern about doing upgrades to the addition and recommended that “rectifying the critical de-

ficiencies or undertaking facility improvements listed in the conditions assessment should be pursued for this portion only on a short-term planning horizon” to protect the public health and safety.

She was also concerned about the amount of pressure on the brick masonry bearing wall at the joint where the original Carnegie building meets the 1966 addition if the settlement reached five inches over many years.

“So if it’s moved two and a half inches already, well how are you going to wait for it to move the remaining two and a half inches and slip off?” said Sorenson.

Duplisea confirmed with Sorenson there was “noth -

ing that’s been noted as catastrophic,” he said, but it was a possibility. She clarified that major upgrades were not recommended.

She said, “I don’t think you should be investing long term in that building.”

Sorenson had better news for the Carnegie building, or original library building, including that improvements like electrical upgrades and fixing the PVC membrane roof could be done.

“That’s the major finding we wanted to share with you,” she said.

Duplisea said what she had reported to them confirmed his assumptions about the structural status of the Hudson Public Library and its addition.

“Obviously, it’s going to take some money to fix it up, but it’s just like our Town Hall. It’s constant maintenance, but … you just don’t have buildings like that anymore,” said Duplisea. Sorenson said, “It’s beautiful.”

Duplisea said he had not been fully aware of the issues at the library and was “dismayed to hear” about them, but that they would have to be handled. He said, “I’m hoping that maybe there’s funding and grants out there … that we can tap into.”

Sanchez-Himes noted the importance of maintaining the building because “if we allow it to let itself go, then we’re not eligible for the grant we’re trying to do.”

Revised plans for former Rowe Funeral Home adds more parking

Rowe Funeral Home | from page 1

property. These will include easements, new sidewalks, and a repaved High Street.

In response to concerns about parking, the applicants plan to have “at least” 80 spaces on site. In addition, there will be no on-site snow storage; all snow will be removed from the site.

Members of the Urban Affairs Committee praised the latest plans.

“This is a dramatic change,” said Councilor David Doucette. “It’s an improvement to what’s there now.”

“You guys have stepped up,” said Councilor Sean Navin, who had voted against the original plans. “This is a dramatically-improved plan.”

Councilor Mark Oram

asked about where contractors will park once the project is underway.

“There should be a plan in

is an updated rendering for the mixed-use project proposed for 57 Main St., the former home of the

place,” he said, citing the tight parking situation in that part of the city.

The committee voted to

approve the amended site plan 4-0. It will be sent to the solicitor before it goes before the full City Council.

This

Rowe Funeral Home. (Courtesy of Procopio Companies)

Judy Boyle, RealtoR®

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Just Tell Me How The Market’s Doing

Before I start any of my real estate articles, I like to ask around to see what people want to read about. This month, the common themes were that everyone is tired of hearing about the shortage of inventory and how to spruce up a bathroom. They said they want to know what the market is doing in their specific communities and what is going to happen with mortgage rates. In one way, I get out of this month’s article pretty easy. In another way, I am at a loss for words.

When I am discussing the market, I let the data tell the story. In the chart below, Multiple Listing Service (“MLS”) statistics for eight area communities illustrate that there are considerably more pending listings than active listings*. It also shows that almost everything is selling slightly over the list price in low days on market. It’s still a seller’s market. End of story.

As for mortgage rates, as I always say, nobody has a crystal ball. All we can do is follow the Consumer Price Index (“CPI”) which is a key indicator of inflation. When the CPI rises significantly, it indicates higher inflation. To combat high inflation, central banks (like the Federal Reserve in the U.S.) may increase interest rates. Higher interest rates make borrowing more expensive, aiming to slow down economic activity and reduce inflation.

When asked recently for her predictions, Deputy Chief Economist & Vice President, NAR Research Jessica Lautz responded, “It depends on the Feds and whether inflation gets to their 2% target”. Lautz went on to say after the latest CPI report came out, “Positive: Mortgage rates eased for the second consecutive week and remain below the historical average of 7.74%. Negative: Mortgage rates are still above 7% for the fifth week in a row.” I really don’t have much more to say other than, at least the rates are heading in the right direction. Take care all…and send me suggestions for my next article!

*Single family units

Hudson approves treatment facility contract

By Sarah Freedman Contributing Writer

HUDSON – A contract for the operation of the Wastewater Treatment Facility and Main Street pump station was approved by the Select Board at its May 20 meeting.

The contract is with Veolia Water North America and will span three years.

The total cost of the contract, which was approved at Town Meeting, came to $1,942,000 for the first year with estimates of $2,039,100 and $2,141,055 for years two and three respectively.

“Wastewater operators are at a premium right now,” Department of Public Works Director Eric Ryder said.

The department has had significant retirements within its staff, and job postings have been active for about a year and a half with no success.

“Working with [Executive Assistant Tom Gregory] informing the board that we were going out for an RFP [request for proposal] for contract operations for the treatment plant, we received vendors,” said Ryder.

After seven firms toured the facility, three companies submitted packages. The town went with Veolia because of cost and the fact that “they operate our sister plant in Gardner,”

Nominate gardens for a beautification award

MARLBOROUGH – Think your garden, or your neighbor’s, is an award winner? The Marlborough Garden Club wants to hear from you.

The club is actively seeking nominations for its annual beautification awards, which recognize city residents whose gardening efforts are over and above the norm.

To nominate a garden for a 2024 Marlborough Garden Club beautification award, email marlboroughgardenclub@gmail.com and include the street address of the garden you are nominating, along with a sentence or two about why you have nominated it. If you have the gardener’s name and contact information, please include it as well.

Nominations are due by May 31. Winners will be announced on June 12.

which is similar to Hudson’s plant, Ryder said.

“So they’re familiar with basically our plant. They have worked with our contractor,” he said.

The DPW currently has a contractor doing the wastewater phase two upgrade.

Due the depth in its operations, Veolia will work to make the plant run more efficiently, and the RFP will have savings for chemicals and other costs.

The DPW is negotiating what the share that goes back to the town will be.

Ryder said, “They will bring in their expertise when they run into situations.”

He believed the contract will be a benefit to the Hudson com-

munity because of the larger buying power that Veolia has. He said they were a great firm to work with, and they would be coming in the next two to three weeks. They officially will begin service on July 1.

Currently, there is one licensed operator, Ryder said, who was a retired employee. There is a chief operator at the plant as well.

Ryder said, “He came back to work for us when we were short-staffed.”

Select Board member Steven Sharek asked how the $1.9 million budget compares to what they were paying for the plant operations. Ryder said it would be a $300,000 increase between the two numbers, but

he was working with Gregory to cover that cost within the rate increase.

Ryder said, “We anticipated the 16% increase, and we’re going to be able to cover that.”

Other news

The Hometown Heroes banners have been installed on a portion of Main and Washington streets. Ryder said the forestry crew spent two and a half weeks and “did a phenomenal job.”

Select Board member Diane Bemis asked what the total number was, and Chair Scott Duplisea said it was about 100 with the second phase forthcoming with another hundred. Ryder said Lincoln Street was next.

Proposed zoning changes may encourage more marijuana shops

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – Businesses in the medical/adult use marijuana field may find it easier to set up shop in the city, thanks to proposed zoning amendments.

Councilor Kathleen Robey presented the amendments during the City Council’s meeting on May 6. She said that while the amendments appeared extensive, they were introduced to update the language within the ordinances; and better define what is and is not allowed.

Robey credited Assistant Solicitor Jeremy McManus for his work on the amendments.

The biggest change is an expansion of what additional marijuana-related businesses would be allowed: craft marijuana cooperative; marijuana microbusiness; marijuana courier; marijuana delivery operator; marijuana research facility; or transporter.

These businesses have been added to the ordinance’s table of uses and condition of uses.

The zoning amendments further define these businesses along with hours of operation.

A special permit would still be required for these businesses, which will be allowed in the industrial and light industrial zones. These businesses would not be allowed

to operate within 500 feet of a school or day-care center.

Robey said the purpose of the amendments would be to “fill space with entrepreneurial businesses” in the city.

Councilor David Doucette mentioned the federal government’s recent proposal to reclassify marijuana as a less dangerous drug. That could lead to further changes within the zoning ordinance.

There are currently several marijuana businesses in the city, including Garden Remedies on Boston Post Road East and Kosa on Boston Post Road West.

The zoning amendments have been sent to the council’s Urban Affairs Committee.

Sharek said, “The Hometown Heroes signs looked tremendous.”

Duplisea spoke about the May 18 event on Saturday for the Hometown Heroes and how even though it rained hard, a good-sized group was in attendance to honor them.

Aging Gracefully

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

COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT

As we age, it’s common to nd ourselves forgetting things from time to time. Although forgetfulness can be a natural and normal part of aging, it may also be a sign of mild cognitive impairment. Cognitive changes can be problematic, but don’t necessarily indicate a more severe type of dementia. Signs of cognitive decline can include forgetting appointments and dates, losing one’s sense of direction, feeling overwhelmed when making di cult decisions, and forgetting recent conversations and events. Doctors can diagnose the condition through various testing methods. Medication side e ects, metabolic imbalances, hormonal problems, and vitamin and nutrient de ciencies can contribute to cognitive impairment. Many causes of cognitive changes are treatable; however, today, no medication exists to treat the condition itself.

e human brain ages just like the body. As long as you exercise your brain, you have a greater chance of keeping it in good shape. Journaling is one of the many ways you can exercise your brain. It also creates an opportunity for you to gain a better perspective on your life’s events. Please call NOTRE DAME LONG TERM CARE CENTER at (508) 852-3011 to learn more about our long-term care services. We are located at 559 Plantation Street.

P.S. Signs of cognitive decline may be di cult to spot, especially if they are not interfering with daily functioning.

Seniors on the move

NCOA OFFERS ONLINE RESOURCES FOR FALL-PREVENTION

Falling is NOT a normal part of aging. ere are steps you can take to reduce your risk. Falls remain the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older adults, and can significantly impact an older adult’s quality of life. A fall can cause older persons to become socially isolated or fearful of leaving home and can lead to costly medical expenses.

One important first step toward staying safe is learning what aspects of your life can put you at greater risk of falling. e National Council on Aging (NCOA), a trusted national leader working to ensure that every person can age well, o ers practical steps to address this important issue on their website.

Prevention for Older Adults o ers practical and proven ways to address the risks associated with

For more information, please visit https://www.ncoa.org/older-adults/ health/prevention/fallsprevention, or use your smartphone to capture this QR code.

Marlborough commemorates Memorial Day with ceremonies

Marlborough requests $115,000 for dog park at Ghiloni

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – Ghiloni

Park could soon have a new feature – a dog park.

During its meeting on Monday, May 20, the City Council fielded a request from Mayor J. Christian Dumais to transfer $115,000 from free cash for the Department of Public Works to construct the park.

“The Department of Public

Works has done a tremendous job putting together an initial set of designs and cost estimates for the Marlborough dog park,” said Dumais in a letter to the council.

The price tag of the dog park is estimated at $300,000. According to Dumais, $150,000 will come from American Rescue Plan Act funds, and another $35,000 from the state’s 2025 fiscal year budget, with assistance from state

Memorial Day | from page 1 of our fallen veterans.”

“I don’t know the answers to these questions; I do, however, know the answer to the question ‘Were they brave?’

The answer to that is an unequivocal, ‘Yes,’” Dumais said.

“This is why we’re here this morning — to honor the bravery, the patriotism and the sacrifice of each and every one

During the ceremony, Rep. Danielle Gregoire, D-Marlborough, presented a proclamation marking Memorial Day.

“It’s truly an honor to be here with you this morning to commemorate the lives of the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms,” said Gregoire.

Rep. Danielle Gregoire (DMarlborough).

Expenses would include installing a chain link fence and gates; a pet waste station; litter receptacles; and a dog leash post.

Should the transfer request be approved, construction would begin shortly afterward.

The request has been moved to the council’s Finance Committee.

schedule.

Top: Members of the Marlborough Fire Department honor guard led the Memorial Day parade.

Bottom: The Marlborough High School marching band and color guard performed patriotic songs during the parade. (Photos/Laura Hayes)

By Evan Walsh Reporter

MARLBOROUGH – Lynne

“VioLynne” Canavan has a gift she can’t help but share.

The 61-year-old Marlborough resident spends her days bouncing around the state with her violin, routinely playing her instrument at different assisted-living facilities, wedding ceremonies, restaurants and other miscellaneous events.

“This is what I love to do. People say, ‘Oh, you have to work nights and weekends?’ This isn’t work for me. Even when I was working a full-time job and had to play three weddings on the weekend — that’s not work to me. This isn’t work — this is who I am,” Canavan told the Community Advocate.

Canavan started playing the violin as a fifth-grade student in Connecticut. Her school district, known for having an excellent music education program, afforded her opportunities to perform in musicals and attend competitions in Philadelphia, New York City and Canada.

Canavan attended the University of Lowell, now UMass Lowell, where she earned an undergraduate degree in music

performance. Canavan went into the insurance industry, preferring the stability and reliable salary. While raising her children, she also decided to accept a 10-hour-per-week job at an assisted-living facility. It turned out to be the perfect opportunity.

“I was like, ‘Wow, this is really fun!’ Then, the memory care director at the time said, ‘Oh, I hear you play the violin. Can you come play the violin?’

And this was the start of me playing violin professionally. I connected with these folks like you wouldn’t believe. I thought it was so cool,” she said. Growing up with parents in the music industry, Canavan knew all the “old” songs. Eventually, a resident played piano alongside her, and before long she was on the monthly activity calendar. The gig — which she called “one of the coolest things in her career” — turned

into a career. Soon, she became the assisted-living facility’s full-time activity director and then the sales marketing director.

It was great, she said, but then something happened: “I was getting the itch to play music again.”

“I had that epiphany that I’m getting old and I need to follow my passion. I have a purpose in life. I know I do. I don’t need money to live. I live

very simply and I’m happy, but I needed to do something with this music thing. There was something inside me telling me I need to bring this to people,” Canavan said.

She handed in her notice in February and became a full-time musician, and she’s “loved every moment” since, she said.

Nowadays, Canavan goes to assisted-living facilities; her electric violin allows her to walk around the room and connect with the residents. It makes her program truly interactive, she said.

“It’s music therapy at its best,” she said. “When you’re a musician, there’s something deep down. You need to compose. You need to play. How am I going to share this gift that I have? I wanted to put a smile on people’s faces and help them have a better day. There are a lot of lonely people at these senior-living facilities. How can we, as musicians, touch these people’s lives?” Canavan plays violin — and sings — all around the state. If your senior-living facility, restaurant, wedding, or other event would benefit from “VioLynne,” contact her at 508-308-2339.

Northborough Garden Club plant sale June 1

NORTHBOROUGH – The Northborough Garden Club will be holding its plant sale on June 1 from 8 a.m. to noon at Ellsworth McAfee Park.

The sale will feature perennials, shrubs and herbs from Garden Club and community members’ gardens.

The club is offering two specially-priced perennials this year. The perennial plant of the year is phlox paniculata “Jeana,” which is a hardy tall phlox that attracts butterflies and blooms a vibrant pink and purple all summer. The club also has a limited number of cultivar daylilies from a grower in New Hampshire.

Massachusetts Master Gardeners Association volunteers will be available for free soil pH testing. All proceeds from the sale will support annual scholarships, town beautification and school horticultural projects.

Lynne “VioLynne” Canavan. (Photo/Evan Walsh)

City Council votes against request to add communications director back to budget

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – The City Council has approved its operating budget for the 2025 fiscal year. However, it did not approve the mayor’s request for a communications director.

During the council’s public hearing on the budget on Monday, May 20, several residents – including Mayor J. Christian Dumais – asked the council to reinstate the position, which had been cut from the budget by the Finance Committee.

While there have been improvements with communications, Dumais told the council of the need for someone to help coordinate information between municipal departments and the public.

“We get complaints about the lack of communications,”

Yard and Craft Sale in Hudson

HUDSON – First United Methodist Church of Hudson, 34 Felton St., invites everyone to its annual Yard and Craft Sale in the church parking lot.

There is no rain date.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 1, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and be prepared to sell, sell, sell.

If you are interested in setting up for the sale, there is unlimited space available for no fee. All the church asks is that you agree to donate at least 10% of what you take in.

The church has a limited number of 6-foot tables that you can use or bring your own table(s). Each space is about a car length.

Metal folding chairs are available at no charge or bring your own.

The church will be selling containers of homemade chili and chicken salad, or you can pack your own lunch.

Call the office to reserve your space at 978-562-2932 or www.hudsonfumc@gmail. com.

he said.

“We need to share information,” said resident Harmony Larson.

A communications director would “be a huge return on the investment” the city has made for a website and newsletter, said resident Kathleen Newton.

While councilors Mark Oram and David Doucette favored reinstating the position, several

other councilors were against it.

Councilor Trey Fuccillo had voted against the position, and he said he would “stand by that vote.”

“I don’t see the need for a communications director,” he said.

Sean Navin cited the possible budget impact should the position be reinstated. It carries a salary of $73,000, plus benefits.

“Water rates are going up 8%. Sewer rates are going up 9%,” he said.

Later in the meeting, the council unanimously approved the operating budget of $195,893,154, or about 4.3% over fiscal 2024.

This includes the $717,732 in cuts recommended by the Finance Committee.

Oram moved to have the

communications director position reinstated, seconded by Doucette. The vote was defeated 9-2 against.

Adding a communications director has been discussed since February. In March, the Finance Committee voted against the measure, raising concerns about salary and whether the position is needed at this time.

Assisted Living Suites Available

and ensure comfort. 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.

HUDSON – Hudson resident

John Walsh graduated with honors from Norwich University, Vt. last month, and that afternoon was commissioned into the United States Marine Corps as a Second Lieut.

Lt. Walsh majored in criminal justice at Norwich, the nation’s oldest private military academy. Those in attendance included Lt. Walsh’s parents,

Influential veterans in the life of newly commissioned Marine Lt. John Walsh, (second from left), are, from left, Neil “Chief” Mansfield, USN retired, (John), John’s maternal grandfather and USMC veteran Rolfe Frost, and Major Travis Bowser, USMC retired. They were among those attending Lt. Walsh’s Norwich University graduation and commissioning ceremony. (Photo/Courtesy)

Steven and Storie Walsh, his paternal grandmother, Barbara Walsh, all of Hudson; maternal grandfather, Rolfe Frost and his partner, Su Locsin of Maine; John’s girlfriend, Elena Jay, and two of Lt. Walsh’s former teachers at Assabet Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School, Marlborough, where he was in Class of 2020. Lt. Walsh was in Cub Pack

3104 and Boy Scout Troop 77 before joining Marine Corps Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (MCJROTC) in high school. Among those attending his Norwich graduation were two of his JROTC training officers while he was a student at AVRVTHC, Neil Mansfield, USN retired, and Major Travis Bowser, USMC retired.

Lt. Walsh will put his newly

earned degree to use this summer while serving as a reserve police officer at Old Orchard Beach, Maine, police department. He will report to Quantico, Va., for further Marine Corps training in the Fall.

Patterson nominated to Hall of Fame

Former Hudson resident Jim Patterson has received word that he has been nominated to the Norwich University (VT.)

Athletic Hall of Fame. A 1974 Norwich graduate, Jim will be inducted during 50th reunion and Homecoming ceremonies in September. A 1970 Hudson High School graduate, Jim and his wife Wendy, live in Florida.

Beach opens June 3 Centennial Beach opens Monday, June 3 and will close Sunday, Aug. 18. Day parking passes, $10 residents, $20 nonresidents, will be sold at the

Rosemary Rimkus

Newly-enlisted U.S. Marine Corps Lt. John Walsh of Hudson, pictured with his paternal grandmother, Barbara Walsh of Hudson, graduated with honors from Norwich University, Vermont, last month, and was commissioned in the Marine Corps following graduation ceremonies. (Photo/Courtesy)

beach. Seasonal passes are $50 for residents, $25 for residents 65 and over, and $100 for nonresidents, sold at the Recreation Dept. office, Town Hall. For more information call the office 978-568-9642.

Celebration of Life

Many members of Hudson High class of 1969 attended “Celebration of Life” for late classmate and noted musician Jeff Chapman recently at Hudson Lodge of Elks: Claire Bonnafe, Diane Svenningsen Long, Judy Cloutier, Rose Murphy Carnes, Rebecca Gould Mimeault, Ann Marie Maculevich Borsky, Greg Mitchell, Gary Courtemanche, Bob Thibault, Ginny Gilfoy Adam, Tony Marques, Kathy Cardoza Ryan, Kathy Collins, Bob Mitchell and Cindy Young. Attending via Facetime were Dave Pontbriand of Maine and Pat Muscati of Arizona.

Yard sale June 25

There will be “something for everyone” at the Hudson Garden Club annual Yard Sale Saturday, June 25 from 9 a.m. to noon at 42 Marlboro St., Hudson. Proceeds will benefit club programming and scholarships.

Hudson Fest

Hudson Fest, the town’s oldest downtown festival, will be held Saturday, June 8 from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on South St., rain or shine, sponsored annually by Assabet Valley Chamber of Commerce.

Walling close to $12,809 goal

Hudson’s dedicated walker Mary Walling walked in the 56th annual Walk for Hunger in Boston on May 5 (51st anniversary for her and Mike.)

After walking the 20-mile route almost annually since the first walk in 1969, this year she walked (for the second time) with three friends for ten miles through Boston Common. Mary has raised thousands of dollars for Walk for Hunger, and reports she is getting close to her $12,809 goal for this year.

Swimming birds

Adults and children will be interested in learning about “Swimming Birds on the Assabet” presented at Hudson Public Library, Wood Square, Saturday, June 20 at 2 p.m. David Wells Ph.D. will talk about the wildlife found on the Assabet River, specifically swimming birds. To register huds.pl/events

grandchildren. (Photo/ Courtesy)

or contact Nancy DelVecchio, circulation librarian, 978-5689644.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

June 1 – Sterling Reber and Jameson Joseph

June 2 – Scott Andrade, twins Brayden and Gracyn Thomason

June 3 – Matt Gigliotti, Jennifer Sousa, Dan O’Keefe, Madison Young, Ashley Simoes and Keira Madden

June 4 – Jessica Tingloff, Tony Fournier and Danny Simoes

June 5 – Tom Jacobs, Cheryl Matthews, Julia Maillet, Steve Walker and Pat Delaney

June 6 – Theresa Guidotti,

Marita Mill, Mike Girard and Karen Calnan

June 7 – Don Doyle, Christopher Pelling, Bonnie DeRusha and Anthony Domenicucci

June 8 – Gerard McManus, Kristen Lyman, Rosemary Marini, Lee Rouse, June Spiller and Maria Rio

June 9 – Laura Girard, Erin Farquharson and Zack Johnson

June 10 – Casey Barry, Patty McInness, Paul Afalu, Connor Quinn, David Sullivan and Nicole Miller

June 11 – Diane Andrews, Peter Lambert, Peggy Nicosia, Nicole Campbell and Angela Pinto

June 12 – Emma Parente, Aline Madden, Heather Bruce, Scott Britz, Michael Somes, Michael Lawton and Chuck Rossignol

June 13 – Fred Rio, Pauline Giancola, John Glynn, Ross Kizik, Wendy Spiller, twins Erica and Rachael Korowski

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

June 1 – Gerry and Carol Gault

June 5 – Jack and Fran Cincottia

June 10 – John and Lisa Erlandson

June 11 – Steve and Jennifer Burney

LOOKING BACK TO 1973 Hudson High School track team members Steve Jacobs, Bob Forbes and Jim Shields were first place finishers in the District III track meet. Phil Karvoski was installed as commander of Manning Post VFW. Joseph P. Greska was master of ceremonies at Memorial Day Parade. Tom Fieldsend was inducted into the Engineering Society at Worcester Polytechnic Institute where he was a junior. Susan Chamberlain won a gold medal at the Worcester Open Free Skating competition. Arthur P. Redding received an evening school Certificate at Wentworth Institute. Friends of Hudson Public Library sponsored an exhibit of paintings by local artist Chris Gorey. Leslie Middlecoff was chosen Queen of the Hudson High School Junior Prom held at Chateau deVille, Framingham.

Send items for Hudson Happ’nings to 18 Cottage St., Hudson MA 01749 or email rrimkus18@ comcast.com.

COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

Westborough’s Project Graduation receives grant from DA’s office

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – On Monday, May 20 — the same day as Westborough High School’s Class of 2024 wore T-shirts of the colleges they will be attending — Project Graduation accepted a check for $1,200 from the office of Worcester District Attorney Joseph Early.

Funding for this, and other post-graduation parties in the area, comes from drug bust forfeitures.

“We’re so appreciative,” said Karen Henderson, chair of Project Graduation.

This year’s Project Graduation theme will remain under wraps until Friday, May 31, when the seniors pick up their caps and gowns.

After that? Henderson will be multitasking — helping fellow volunteers transform TeamWorks into party central; recording the graduation

On Monday, May 20, Worcester County District Attorney Joseph Early presented a check for $1,200 to Westborough High School’s Project Graduation for the Class of 2024’s all-night party. (Photos/Maureen Sullivan)

ceremony for WestboroughTV; and heading back to TeamWorks to help chaperone.

Since 1991, Project Graduation has provided a fun, safe and alcohol-free event for students graduating from Westborough High School.

More information about Project Graduation is available at the Westborough High School’s website, https://whs.westboroughk12.org/

Blackstone Valley Tech plans annual golf tournament

UPTON – Blackstone Valley Tech will hold its 25th annual golf tournament on Monday, June 10, at Highfields Golf & Country Club in Grafton.

Proceeds will benefit the vocational and technical high school’s education foundation and athletic department activities and programs.

Registration — $150 for an individual golfer and $600 for a foursome — will include 18 holes on the championship course, a golf cart and a buffet dinner. There will also be a silent auction and raffles.

Not a golfer? Consider sponsoring a tee, putting green or a cart to display your company name in the program and during the event.

For all tournament details, to view sponsorship opportunities, donate a raffle item, or access the online golfer registration and payment portal, visit www.valleytech.k12. ma.us/golftournament.

Do you experience migraine attacks?

You may qualify for new potential migraine treatments.

We’re studying acute and preventative treatments that could better manage migraine.

• Join migraine experts in the quest to find better solutions. See if you qualify.

• Join our pursuit of potential new solutions for migraine and enroll today.

• Compensation is provided for your time and travel of $100.00 per visit. Total reimbursement varies by study. We can also assist with Uber transportation if needed.

Our clinic site is Community Clinical Research Network, located at 488 Boston Post Road, East in Marlborough. We can be reached by phone at 508-320-9248 or email at kmagner@ccrnresearch.com

Summer robotics camp at ARHS

NORTHBOROUGH – The 2024 NERA VEX Robotics Summer Camp is coming to Algonquin Regional High School. The campers will be able to create and code their own robot. The students have different challenges each year according to the VEX Robotics competition.

Every camper will need to bring a computer or iPad. The camp is meant for students in second through ninth grades.

The dates of the camp are July 22 to 26 and July 29 to Aug. 2 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Two weeks tuition costs $498 per child or one week for $285 per child.

The tuition will be used to cover the costs, and the rest will be donated. To register, visit https://forms.gle/sAhRd1bK5hAqQSU4A.

Worcester County District Attorney Joseph Early congratulates members of Westborough High School’s Class of 2024.

Prominent Southborough family fought creation of the Sudbury Reservoir COMMUNITY HISTORY

SOUTHBOROUGH THEN NOW

By James Nichols-Worley History Columnist

SOUTHBOROUGH – Joseph

Burnett is buried in a small family cemetery behind St. Mark’s Church, next to St. Mark’s School, both of which he founded. But perhaps no greater monument honors one of Southborough’s greatest citizens and the town’s lost dreams as a manufacturing hub than the 1,200-acre Sudbury Reservoir, which covers over a tenth of the town. Before its opening in 1898, The Boston Globe called it “the largest artificial reservoir in the world,” a modern engineering marvel needed to supply water to Boston, then one of the largest cities in the world.

The Burnett family protested the project. The reservoir threatened Deerfoot Farms (another Joseph Burnett creation), a burgeoning meatpacking and dairy operation. Joseph Burnett served on the committee that garnered $50,000 for Southborough from the Boston Water Board. Only 103 days after a settlement was reached, however, Burnett was killed after being thrown from his carriage; a trolley car had scared his horse. Another 58 days later, his son Robert Burnett and the executors of his will had issued an injunction against the Water Board. Now the Metropolitan Water Commission, it had seized most of the 196 parcels of land it needed by 1896, but the Burnett family halted progress on the project in court for over three years on charges that the state had abused its powers of eminent domain. Robert refused to speak with the press.

The Burnett family retained the counsel of Frank Goulding,

who previously represented the town of West Boylston in protest against the construction of the Wachusett Reservoir (he somewhat melodramatically called it “a scheme without precedent in the history of the world”) and William Hopkins, former City Solicitor and District Attorney in Worcester. Although the Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts shot down their arguments that the takings were unconstitutional, the Burnett family saved most of their estate, losing only a narrow 20 acres of pasture to the flooding. Construction was completed in 1897 and the reservoir finally opened in 1898.

Contention over the reservoir’s size abounded. Caleb Saville, a career civil engineer who worked on Boston’s water supply, gave a much more conservative estimate in 1907 that it was merely the largest in New England. The editors of the Engineering News and American Contract Journal offered candidates like the Walnut Grove Dam in Arizona (which collapsed in 1890, killing 100 people), but they ultimately concluded that “we cannot positively say which one is the largest.”

One candidate with a

strong contention for the title is Ohio’s Mercer Lake (now Grand Lake St. Marys), which covers around 17,000 acres, but it was not used for drinking water. Others may fight for

the title, like the 1888 Crystal Springs Reservoir in California, which covers 1,323 acres. But perhaps it’s better to understand the Sudbury Reservoir not in isolation, but rather as

part of what is still one of the most impressive metropolitan water supplies ever created, a jewel that would link the Quabbin Reservoir to Greater Boston.

The Sudbury Reservoir dam in Southborough, pictured in 1897, the year before the reservoir opened.

(Photo/Courtesy of Digital Commonwealth)

The Sudbury Reservoir in Southborough, as depicted in this recreation of an historic map, covers over a tenth of the town’s land.

(Photo/James Nichols-Worley)

Fatal fire in Marlborough home under investigation

By Ron Ayotte and Laura Hayes

MARLBOROUGH – A fatal fire in a Marlborough home is under investigation.

According to a press release from Fire Chief Kevin Breen, Police Chief David Giorgi, Fire Marshal Jon Davine and Middlesex County District Attorney Marian Ryan, the fire department responded to 66 Nolan Way at 8:23 a.m. May 22.

When the firefighters arrived, the home was “well involved” and there was fire venting from the back left corner of the house.

“As we came out of the rear driveway of Station 3 and came up over the rise by the former Wildwood Restaurant, a heavy column of smoke was visible. We knew we had a job,” said Captain of Engine 3 on Group 3, Captain Danny Martins.

Battalion Chief Ken MacEwen ( Car 5) struck the box for the working fire while enroute from Fire Headquarters. Engine 1, Engine 2, Squad 1, Rescue 1, Truck 1 responded on the working fire

(Photo/Courtesy)

along with Cars 1, 2 and 3.

The fire department entered to attack the fire and search for occupants.

The firefighters of Engine 3 pulled an attack line and

darkened down the fire from the outside before entering the structure in what is known in the fire service as a “transitional fire attack.” Engine 1, Rescue 1, Truck 1 arrived on scene, with Engine 2 and Squad 1 designated as the Rapid Intervention Company. Rescue 1 did a primary search while Truck 1 set up the aerial to ventilate the roof. Engine 1’s crew, led by Lieutenant Omar Torres pulled an attack line off of Engine 1 and proceeded to the second floor.

Firefighters from Marlborough Rescue 1 located one adult, who was deceased, on the second floor.

According to the release, the majority of the fire was knocked down in approximately 15 minutes, and it was under control within half an hour.

The investigators believe the fire originated in the living room on the first floor. How-

ever, the exact cause of the fire is under investigation.

“It was a textbook transitional fire attack, unfortunately, a resident died as a result of the fire. Mutual aid to the scene was necessary for manpower due to the temperature,” said MacEwen.

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will determine the cause and manner of the victim’s death. Another resident has been displaced. The house was deemed uninhabitable with heavy fire and smoke damage.

“On behalf of the Marlborough Fire Department, I want to extend our heartfelt condolences to the family that lost a loved one this morning,” said Breen.

Hudson and Southborough Fire Departments provided mutual aid, and Northborough provided station coverage.

Shrewsbury

Friday, May 17

7:05 p.m. Arrested, David M. Tolley, 39, of 37 Bexley Rd., Apt. 3, Roslindale, on warrant.

Saturday, May 18

3:08 a.m. Arrested, Ryan D. Kenney, 33, of 9 Ball St., Worcester, for possession Class A substance, possession Class B substance, warrant.

7:52 p.m. Arrested, Roberthy Rocha, 19, of 61 Lake St., Shrewsbury, on warrants.

Sunday, May 19

3:57 a.m. Arrested, Carlito Sanchez-Cruz, 30, of 23 North St., Manchester, CT, for OUI liquor, marked lanes violation, license not in possession, violate abuse prevention order.

Grafton

Tuesday, May 14

6:07 p.m. Arrested, Matthew Randall Talancy, 39, of 23 Northgate Ct., North Grafton, for OUI-liquor or .08% 2nd offense.

Northborough

Saturday, May 18

12:33 a.m. Arrested , Oscar A. Barrera-Martinez, 23, homeless, Northborough, for unlicensed operation of MV, negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08%.

Sunday, May 19

4:23 p.m. Arrested , Christopher D. Flynn, 31, of 101 Colburn St., Northborough, for OUI while license suspended for OUI, negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-drugs, use MV without authority, marked lanes violation.

6:43 p.m. Arrested, Alfred Joseph Miron Jr., 66, of 47 North Main St., Apt. 1R, West Boylston, on warrant. Monday, May 20

6:37 a.m. Arrested , Hendalee Wilson, 47, of 746 Samuel Dr., Whitinsville, on warrant.

Marlborough

Monday, May 6

1:18 a.m. Arrested, Felipe Hermogenes Oliveira, 35, of 23 Blake St., Apt. 3, Westborough, on straight warrant, MV lights violation.

12:38 p.m. Arrested , Kevin Gallagher, 53, of 86 Lowther Rd., Framingham, on default warrant.

3:26 p.m. Arrested, Vashon Maric

The Marlborough Fire Department battled a fatal fire on Nolan Way on May 22.

Scan QR code for rate information or to email your legal notice.

WESTBOROUGH

LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

ABBREVIATED NOTICE OF RESOURCE AREA DELINEATION 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, June 11, 2023 after 6:30 PM at the Forbes Municipal Building, 3rd Fl meeting room, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA, for an Abbreviated Notice of Resource Area Delineation for multiple easements from Otis St. to Park St.; BWALT Section 2 as shown on submitted plan filed by Town of Westborough Dept. of Public Works to evaluate jurisdictional wetland 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 June 11, 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 700 Friberg Prkwy. (Parcel ID: 29-1280) submitted by Friberg 700 Limited Partnership for proposed construction of 140,000 square foot office building with ancillary parking and driveways, utility infrastructure, and stormwater infrastructure within jurisdictional resource 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 June 11, 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 26 Arch St. (Parcel ID: 13-11-0) Rozita Saghati for proposed construction of accessory dwelling unit, driveway and landscaping as part of a single-family dwelling proposed for the lot within jurisdictional resource areas.

SHREWSBURY

SHREWSBURY PLANNING BOARD LEGAL NOTICE

The Shrewsbury Planning Board and Grafton Planning Board will hold a joint public hearing on Monday evening, June 10, 2024, at 7:00 P.M., in the Select Board Meeting Room, at the Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, to hear the application of Prologis, Inc., One Meadowlands Plaza, Suite 100, East Rutherford, Rhode Island, for Site Plan Approval by the Planning Board to allow for construction of an approximately 845,500 s.f. warehouse and distribution facility with associated accessory building to be located upon property known as 50 Centech Boulevard, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts consisting of presently vacant land totally approximately 212 acres (approximately 54.2 acres in Grafton and 166.2 acres in Shrewsbury). The Site Plan Approval is required by the Town of Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII.F.3 in addition to other relief pursuant to the Grafton Zoning Bylaw. The proposed development is shown on plans entitled, “UPS Centech Boulevard

for Site Plan Review, Special Permit, Order of Conditions and Stormwater Permit, 50 Centech Boulevard” prepared by Langen Engineering & Environmental Services, Inc. dated May 7, 2024, consisting of 130 sheets. The subject property is located on Centech Boulevard in Shrewsbury and Centennial Drive in Grafton consists in whole or in part as Parcels 55-001000, 5500202,55-002004 and 54-001000 on the Town of Shrewsbury Assessors Map and as Parcels 005.0-0000-0001.E, 004-00000001.0, 012.0-0000-0015.0 and 011.00000-0046.0 on the Town of Grafton Assessors Map.

Copies of the application and all others are available for public inspection at the Grafton Planning Department, 30 Providence Road, Grafton, Massachusetts doing regular business hours or the Town of Grafton website at www.grafton-ma.gov at the Planning Department/Development Projects webpage. Copies of the application are also available for public inspection at the Shrewsbury Planning and Economic Development Office, Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts during regular business hours or on the Town of Shrewsbury website at www.Shrewsbury.ma.gov on the Planning Board/Projects in Permitting web page.

SHREWSBURY PLANNING BOARD

Julie Holstrom, Clerk

HUDSON

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, June 18, 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) 562-2989 or by sending an email to kjohnson@townofhudson.org.

Hudson Planning Board

Robert D’Amelio, Chairman

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, June 18, 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 project 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) 562-2989 or by sending an email to kjohnson@townofhudson.org.

Hudson Planning Board

Robert D’Amelio, Chairman

W0RCESTER

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice is hereby given pursuant to the provision of M.G.L. c 255 Section 39A that on June 17, 2024, the following vehicles will be sold at a private sale to satisfy our garage keeper’s lien thereof for towing, storage & notices of sale. To be sold at Belsito Auto 245 SW Cutoff Worcester MA.

2010 Chevy Suburban VIN #1GNUKKE39AR150588

2017 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited VIN #1C4BJWDG3HL574778

2008 Infiniti G35 VIN #JNKBV61F88M264974

FAMILY & PROBATE LAW

INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE

Docket No. WO24P1262EA

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

The Trial Court

Worcester Division

Probate and Family Court

Estate of: Brian Alan Wolfset

Date of Death: March 22, 2024

To all persons interested in the above captioned estate by Petition of Petitioner, Glenn D. Wolfset of Waltham, MA

A Will has been admitted to informal probate. Glenn D. Wolfset of Waltham, MA has been informally appointed as the Personal Representative of the estate to serve without surety on the bond.

The estate is being administered under informal procedure by the Personal Representative under the Massachusetts Uniform Probate Code without supervision by the Court. Inventory and accounts are not required to be filed with the Court, but interested parties are entitled to notice regarding the administration from the Personal Representative and can petition the Court in any matter relating to the estate, including distribution of assets and expenses of administration. Interested parties are entitled to petition the Court to institute formal proceedings and to obtain orders terminating or restricting the powers of Personal Representatives appointed under informal procedure. A copy of the Petition and Will, if any, can be obtained from the Petitioner.

INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE

Docket No. WO24P1584EA

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

The Trial Court

Worcester Division

Probate and Family Court

Estate of: Ann M. White

Also Known as: Ann Mc Dougal White, Ann McD White Date of Death: March 19, 2024

To all persons interested in the above captioned estate by Petition of Petitioner, Elizabeth W. Tannenbaum of Hopkinton, MA. A Will has been admitted to informal probate. Elizabeth W. Tannenbaum of Hopkinton MA has been informally appointed as the Personal Representative of the estate to serve without surety on the bond.

The estate is being administered under

informal procedure by the Personal Representative under the Massachusetts Uniform Probate Code without supervision by the Court. Inventory and accounts are not required to be filed with the Court, but interested parties are entitled to notice regarding the administration from the Personal Representative and can petition the Court in any matter relating to the estate, including distribution of assets and expenses of administration. Interested parties are entitled to petition the Court to institute formal proceedings and to obtain orders terminating or restricting the powers of Personal Representatives appointed under informal procedure. A copy of the Petition and Will, if any, can be obtained from the Petitioner.

NORTHBOROUGH

NOTICE OF TIER CLASSIFICATION

Former Bay State Circuits 200 Bartlett Street, Northborough, MA RTNs 2-22327 and 2-22401

A release of oil and/or hazardous materials has occurred at this location, which is a disposal site as defined by M.G.L. c. 21E, § 2 and the Massachusetts Contingency Plan, 310 CMR 40.0000. To evaluate the release, a Phase I Initial Site Investigation was performed pursuant to 310 CMR 40.0480. The site has been classified as Tier II pursuant to 310 CMR 40.0500. On May 28, 2024, Robert J. Devereaux Corp. filed a Tier II Classification Submittal with the Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP). To obtain more information on this disposal site, please contact Mr. Richard Gates, Robert J. Devereaux Corp., 180 Bartlett Street, Northborough, Massachusetts, 01532, 617293-0586. The Tier II Classification Submittal and the disposal site file can be viewed at MassDEP website using Release Tracking Number (RTNs) 2-22327 and 2-22401 at http://public.dep.state.ma.us/SearchableSites2/Search.aspx or at MassDEP, Central Regional Office, 8 New Bond Street, Worcester, MA, 01606, 508-792-7650. Additional public involvement opportunities are available under 310 CMR 40.1403(9) and 310 CMR 40.1404.

MARLBOROUGH

CITY OF MARLBOROUGH CONSERVATION COMMISSION NOTICE OF INTENT NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that the Marlborough Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on June 6, 2024, at 7:00 PM at Marlborough City Hall, 140 Main St. on the 3rd Floor Memorial Hall.

Exela movers proposes to make site improvements to an existing storage facility near wetlands at 846-850 Boston Post Rd. East.

Plans and other information will be available in the Conservation Commission office at City Hall Monday thru Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. All interested persons are invited to the public hearing.

Edward Clancy Conservation Commission Chairman

NOTICE OF INITIAL SITE INVESTIGATION AND TIER II CLASSIFICATION

Portion of 200 Donald J. Lynch Boulevard, Marlborough, MA 01752

RELEASE TRACKING NUMBER 2-22321

A release of oil and/or hazardous materials has occurred at this location, which is a disposal site as defined by M.G.L. c. 21E, § 2 and the Massachusetts Contingency Plan, 310 CMR 40.0000. To evaluate the release, a Phase I Initial Site Investigation was performed pursuant to 310 CMR 40.0480. As a result of this investigation, the site has been classified as Tier II pursuant to 310 CMR 40.0500. On May 21, 2024, Minardi Metrowest Properties, LLC filed a Tier II Classification Submittal with the Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP). To obtain more information on this disposal site, please contact William Kenney, Licensed Site Professional (LSP), at River Hawk Environmental, LLC, 511 West Grove Street, Suite 301, Middleborough, MA 02346, (781) 536-4639. The Tier II Classification Submittal and the disposal site file can be reviewed at MassDEP, 8 New Bond Street, Worcester, MA 01606; Main Phone: 888-758-4389.

Additional public involvement opportunities are available under 310 CMR 40.1403(9) and 310 CMR 40.1404.

CITY OF MARLBOROUGH CONSERVATION COMMISSION

REQUEST FOR DETERMINATION OF APPLICABILITY NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that the Marlborough Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on June 6, 2024, at 7:00 PM at Marlborough City Hall, 140 Main St. on the 3rd Floor Memorial Hall.

Owner of 26, 50 & 62 Forest St. proposes maintenance and improvements to an already existing storm water basin. Proposed work in near wetlands.

Plans and other information will be available in the Conservation Commission office at City Hall Monday thru Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, (508)460-3768. All interested persons are invited to the public hearing.

Edward Clancy Conservation Commission Chairman

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that the Marlborough Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on June 18, 2024 at 7:00pm in Marlborough City Hall, 140 Main St. – 3rd floor Memorial Hall.

Petition:

The applicant seeks to build a new singlefamily home with a deck at 13 Red Spring Rd, replacing an older home on the same site. The construction of a new singlefamily home at 13 Red Spring Rd. requires a special permit from the Board of Appeals under Section 650-12.B of the Marlborough Zoning Ordinance.

For further assistance, please contact the Board at 508-460-3768. All interested persons are invited. Applicant or representative must be present.

Ralph Loftin Chairman

COMMUNITY CLASSIFIED

Roberts, 46, of 170 Morton St., Jamaica Plain, on straight warrant, possess Class A drug.

Tuesday, May 7

7:45 a.m. Arrested, Jose Miranda Rodrigues, 26, of 31 Cottage St., Apt. A, Westborough, on straight warrant, unlicensed operation of MV.

Thursday, May 9

9:59 p.m. Arrested , Meagan M. Shaw, 43, of 29 Ruggles St., Apt. 1, Westborough, for OUI-liquor or .08%, no inspection sticker, child endangerment while OUI, negligent operation of motor vehicle.

7:01 p.m. Arrested, Walter Ramirez,

37, of 135 E Main St., Apt. H11, Westborough, for op MV with license suspended, improper turn.

Saturday, May 11

11:04 p.m. Arrested, Joshua Vincent Mahoney, 31, 27 Flanders Rd., Westborough, on default warrant.

Monday, May 13

7:54 p.m. Arrested , Francisco Horasio Cruz-Gomez, 29, of 40 Gosnold St., Apt. 3, Worcester, for no inspection sticker, op MV with license revoked.

Tuesday, May 14

11:09 a.m. Arrested , Kiara Rae Santorella, 30, of 3 Teconnect Path,

Worcester, on straight warrant.

8:30 p.m. Arrested, Hugo Orlando Aguilar Palma, 50, of 135 E Main St., Apt. Q1, Westborough, on straight warrant.

Saturday, May 18

2:21 p.m. Arrested, Troy C. Flanders, 51, of 79 Phelps St., Apt. E, Marlborough, for OUI-liquor or .08% 2nd offense.

Sunday, May 19

1:27 a.m. Arrested, Paulo Assuncao, 21, of 220 Lincoln St., Apt. 2, Marlborough, for OUI-liquor or .08%, op MV with license suspended, leave scene of property damage.

Wednesday, May 22

11:14 p.m. Arrested , Kaisson S. Rodrigues, 54, of 849 Boston Post Road East, Apt. 2G, Marlborough, for vandalize property, A&B, disorderly conduct.

Southborough

Saturday, May 11

12:19 a.m. Arrested , Saara M. Seppanen-Young, of Kings Grant Rd., Marlborough, for MV lights violation, negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08% 2nd offense.

9:19 p.m. Arrested, Brian M. Kelly, of Barry Dr., Framingham, for OUIliquor or .08% 2nd offense, negligent operation of motor vehicle, fail to stop/yield.

Monday, May 13

12:40 a.m. Arrested, Joao Granado, of Gay St., Marlborough, for op MV with license suspended, no inspection sticker.

Saturday, May 18

1:22 a.m. Arrested , Thomas A. Konan, of Mount View Dr., Clinton, for OUI-liquor or .08% 2nd offense, negligent operation of motor vehicle.

Virtusa Corp

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

Cloud Systems Engineer II: Bach* in CS, Info Systms, Elctrncs Engrng or rel fld +3yrs of dsgn, dvlpmnt, or admin of cloud-based systms, wrkng in a glblly distrib environ. *Bach equiv thru combo of edu/training/ exper as determined by a crdble eval srvc also accepted. Ref # VIR-1031.

Business Analyst II: Bach in Science (any fld) +2yrs IT exper incl 1+yr of business/ systms analysis as part of dvlpmnt activities. Ref #VIR-1028.

Java Engineer III: Master’s in CS, Elctrncs Engrng, Engrng Mgmnt or rel fld +2yrs of exper dsgning & dvlpng apps using Java,J2EE. Ref #VIR-1023.

Java Systems Architect III: Master’s in CS, Elctrncs Engrng or rel fld plus +2yrs IT dsgn & engrng exper w/ Java/J2EE wrkng in a glblly distrib environ. Ref #VCS-1005.

For all positions, employee will work in various unanticipated locations in U.S., travel/re-location possible. Please email resumes to: apply@virtusa.com, making specific reference to the Ref # of the position you are applying to.

Research and Development Manager

Marlborough, MA. May require to travel/telecommute. Responsible for leading R&D teams focused on developing new technologies, products, & manufacturing processes for Endoscopy devices. Contact: Susan Cardinal Boston Scientific Corporation, GlobalTalentAcq@bsci.com. Please include reference H4872-00068. (EOE).

•

Busy local tow company looking for all Class drivers immediately. Day and night shifts available. Pay based on experience. Benefits available after trial period.

Apply online, call us, or stop in. loveystowing@gmail.com 508-756-5753 632 Lake St., Shrewsbury

COMMUNITY OBITUARIES

The Community Advocate will post obituaries online (and in print, as space allows). Please send information (and a picture if desired) to tracy@communityadvocate.com. Here is a complete list of individual obituaries posted on the Community Advocate website (www.communityadvocate.com).

DEATHS

Acierno, Carla of Hudson Baker, Denise of Marlborough Donnelly, Dorothea formerly of Marlborough Gasparoni, Michael formerly of Southborough George, John formerly of Shrewsbury and Northborough Gwin Jr., Paul of Northborough Johnson, Frances of Westborough

Neal H. Swenor, 84

WESTBOROUGH - Neal Herbert Swenor, 84, of Westborough MA, previously of Northborough, MA passed away peacefully with his wife by his side in the early morning of May 23.

He is survived by his wife Muriel (Gougeon), his brother Clay Swenor and his wife Janice of Westminster MA, sister Gail Preble and her husband Warren of Bedford, VA, his sister-in-law Carol Swenor of West Townsend, MA., and many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. He was predeceased by his brother Grant.

Hays Funeral Home of Northborough assisted with arrangements.

Frances M. Johnson, 94

WESTBOROUGH - Frances M. Johnson, 94, a resident of Westborough for nearly 40 years and a lifelong resident of Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2024, at Christopher House, a rehabilitation center in Worcester. Mother to six — daughters Karen, Shirlee, and Christine; and sons Roy Jr., David, and Paul — Fran devoted many years of her long life to raising a family in Wellesley with her husband, Roy Sr., whom she married in 1949 after cultivating an epistolary relationship during his service in the South Pacific at the end of the Second World War. Fran leaves her six children, seven grandchildren,

Mann, David of Hudson May, Ann of Marlborough May, Norman of Shrewsbury Roy, Lorraine of Northborough Salser, George of Hudson Skoglund, J. Carolyn of Shrewsbury Starbard III, Harold of Grafton

Swenor, Neal of Westborough White, Dan formerly of Hudson

and two great grandchildren. She is predeceased by her two husbands, Roy Sr. and Francis Bulger, along with her sister Leah, and brothers Ralph, Robert, and Horace. Fran leaves two sisters, Esther, and Adelaide.

Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.

Denise M. Baker, 59

MARLBOROUGH - Denise Marie Baker, 59, of Marlborough, died peacefully at her home on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Denise was born in Boston, MA, to the late John J. And Bernardine B. (Crowley) Baker, the fourth of seven children.

In addition to her sister, Deborah A. Baker of Marlborough, Denise leaves two sisters, Catherine Baker of Marlborough and Dina Mehaffey of Holden, and two brothers, Paul M. Baker of NH and John L. Baker of Marlborough. She is also survived by her devoted nieces and nephews, including Jason, Anthony, Pamela, Sonia, Elizabeth, and Amanda, a great-niece, Madison, and two great-nephews, Dominic and Wyatt. Denise was predeceased by her sister, Diane M. Cavicchio, earlier this spring.

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

Harold E. Starbard III, 74

GRAFTON - With solemn reverence, we commemorate Har-

old E. Starbard III of Grafton, Massachusetts, whose life came to an end on May 14, 2024 at the age of 74, leaving behind cherished memories.

He was loved and cherished by many people including: his wife Cindy Starbard (Bassett); his parents, Harry and Claire; his daughter Marisa; his close friend Lou Accurso; his grandchildren, Luke Stam, Lily Stam and Aracely Stam; his uncle Bob Bird; his son-in-law Aaron Stam; his nephew PJ O’Connell; his sister Diane; and his stepson Jeremy.

Baldwin Brothers Funeral & Cremation Society of Florida assisted.

David Mann, 45

HUDSON - The world bids farewell to David Mann of Hudson, Massachusetts, departing on May 16, 2024 at the age of 45. David leaves behind memories cherished by the community.

He was loved and cherished by many people including: his parents, Susan Mann (Tellen) of Hudson, MA and Robert S. Mann of Canton, MA.; his sibling Laurie Mann Camarra of Canton, MA.; his niece Isabella Olsen-Mann; and his nephew Tristan John Mann Camarra of Canton, MA.. He was also cherished by several uncles, aunts, cousins and friends.

The Stanetsky Memorial Chapels of Canton assisted with arrangements.

Dorothea D. Donnelly, 100

NORTH ATTLEBORO - Dorothea D. “Dot” Donnelly, 100, a cherished resident of North Attleboro since 1946, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, at the Berkshire Medical Center in Pittsfield, MA, surrounded by her loving family. She was the beloved wife of the late Hugh L. “Bud” Donnelly, who passed away on October 15, 2001.

She is survived by her devoted children: Noreen L. Donnelly of Adams, MA, and Michael J. Donnelly of North Attleboro, and his companion Rona Palumbo of Franklin. Dot leaves behind her cher -

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

ished grandchildren: Stephen Donnelly II of Adams, MA; Christopher Donnelly of Arizona; and Shannon Donnelly of Colorado. She also leaves her step-grandchildren: Mark Harrington, Michael Harrington, Edward Harrington, and Eric Harrington. She was the sisterin-law of Eleanor Donovan of Shrewsbury, MA, and aunt to many nieces and nephews. Dot was predeceased by her beloved sons, Stephen Donnelly, Sr., and Hugh “Bill” Donnelly, as well as her daughterin-law, Karen Donnelly, and son-in-law, Arthur “Skip” Harrington. She was also preceded in death by her brother, John H. Donovan, Jr., MD.

The Sperry & McHoul Funeral Home of North Attleboro assisted with arrangements.

Norman C. May, 94

SHREWSBURY - A lifelong resident of Shrewsbury, MA, Norman C. May was born on Oak Street in Shrewsbury and left peacefully from Southgate

Assisted Living. He was predeceased by his wife Ruby V. (McCall) May and two of his sons, Keith E. May and Randall E. May.

Norman was the father of six children: Norman C. May Jr. and his wife Lorraine {Dailey} May of Valrico, FL; Marilyn McKay-Crumpler of Middleburg, FL; Randall E. May (Deceased) and his wife Jean (Hazen) May of Barre, MA; Keith E. May (Deceased) of Shrewsbury, MA; Sherry Gaspar and her husband Louie of Leicester, MA; and Glenn E. May of Middleburg, FL. Norman leaves behind many grandchildren: Jennifer (May) and her husband Mark Halliday of Franklin, MA; Christopher and his wife Liz (O’Neill) May of Brookfield, MA; Lori McKay of Jacksonville/Middleburg, FL; Michael McKay and his wife Christy of Jacksonville, FL; Trent McKay and his partner Daniyel Maccomber of Jacksonville, FL; Erica (May) and her husband Michael Curci of Worcester, MA; Justin May of Auburn, MA; Amanda May of Barre, MA; Olivia May of Barre, MA; Justine Gaspar of Leicester, MA; Eric and his wife Jessica (Beauvais) May of Mil-

ford, NH; Nathan May of Milford, NH; and Cassandra May of Marlborough, MA. Norman was also lucky enough to have several great grandchildren: Parker May, Riley May, Ethan May, Mason McKay, Camden McKay, Branden McKay, Bentley May and Charles May. The Chiampa Funeral Home of Shrewsbury assisted with arrangements.

George S. Salser, 60

HUDSON - George “Steve” Salser, age 60, passed away peacefully on April 12, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on October 8, 1963 to George and Judy Salser in Fair Lawn, New Jersey. Predeceased by his father, George Salser, Steve is survived by his mother, Judith Salser. Steve’s siblings Alicia (David) Bowen, Felicia (Mike) Pakalnis and Jennifer (David) Hayes, remember him as a man who loved animals, loved to cook and was a voracious reader.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday June 1, 2024, from 2pm-4pm, at Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home, 50 Central Street, Hudson, Massachusetts. A reception will be held at his former home, where friends and family can share memories and comfort one another.

Ann C. May, 79

MARLBOROUGH - Ann C. (Murphy) May, 79, of Marlborough died Tuesday May 21, 2024 at UMASS Memorial Medical Center after a brief illness. She was the wife of Robert F. May for the past 54 years.

She leaves her loving husband Robert F. May of Marlborough; two sons, Michael and Steven May both of Marlborough; a brother Gerald Murphy of Salem; two nephews, Joshua Murphy of Johannesburg, South Africa and Eathan Murphy of Wilder, Vermont; several dear friends.

Collins Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.

Rockin’ the Boroughs reignites local resident’s love of music

By Cindy Zomar Contributing Writer

REGION – Music has come full circle in the life of Gerry Boland, a lifelong Marlborough resident and current member of several local senior choral groups.

“I started pretty young with a love of music, I was in the band in elementary school, junior high, and high school. While in the Army, I auditioned for the Army Band and attended the US Naval School of Music, then spent years touring as a drummer with various bands until live music went the way of the covered wagon,” explained Boland.

Faced with finding a new career, he sold off his musical equipment and became an insurance broker. At 70, he still works part time but saw an ad in the paper for the senior chorus, Rockin’ the Boroughs, which rehearses in Northborough.

Manoj Padki is the choral director and has two other local choral groups, Reharmonix

in Hudson and a Barbershop group in Berlin. Before he knew it, Boland was a member of all three groups.

“Manoj has been instrumental (pun intended!) in building these groups from ground zero,” Boland laughed. ‘I never planned on doing any dancing, but the power of peer persuasion is real.”

Padki is quick to praise Boland for his contributions.

“Gerry jumped in with both feet, singing, dancing, and doing solos. He works hard and

SELCO recognized for reliable electric service to the community

SHREWSBURY – Shrewsbury Electric & Cable Operations (SELCO) has received national recognition for achieving exceptional electric reliability in 2023.

The recognition comes from the American Public Power Association (APPA), a trade group that represents more than 2,000 not-for-profit, community-owned electric utilities.

APPA helps electric utilities track power outage and restoration data through its subscription-based eReliability Tracker service. Once per year, APPA’s reliability team compares this data to national statistics tracked by the U.S. Energy Information Administration for all types of electric utilities.

“It’s encouraging to see year after year that public power’s track record for providing highly reliable service is backed up by data,” said APPA Director of Research and Development Paul Zummo. “These utilities are the best of the best when it comes to keeping the lights on. And these communities should

be proud of their local power providers and appreciate the hard work that goes into earning this recognition.”

Nationwide, the average public power customer has their lights out for less than half the amount of time that customers of other types of utilities do. Specifically, SELCO achieved an average outage time of approximately 10 minutes per year, compared to the national average of 148 minutes per year for all U.S. electric utilities (excluding major events).

“SELCO is deeply appreciative of this award as it reinforces the hard work put forth by our engineering and operations teams. The statistics show time and time again that the public power business model is the superior way to deliver utility services and SELCO strives to be the best of the best,” said SELCO General Manager Christopher Roy. For more information on SELCO and its commitment to reliability, visit SELCO.ShrewsburyMA.gov.

is usually the first one off the papers, [having memorized the lyrics and sheet music],” he said.

Currently the Northborough group is preparing for their second live performance, this time being held in Shrewsbury at The Flanagan Theatre at Southgate on June 15 at 7:30 p.m. and then a 2 p.m. matinee on the 16.

They have just added a band to accompany them, Crusty Rock. In typical fashion, Padki recruited a neighbor, Ken Por-

Marlborough resident Gerry Boland rehearses one of his solos for an upcoming concert in June.

(Photo/Cindy Zomar)

ter, who gathered a few other musicians, and the new band was born.

“We do 50s, 60s and 70s rock, well-known tunes, so it’s pretty easy to work with us,” Boland added.

Boland will be featured as a soloist in several numbers.

Padki is pleased that Rockin’ the Boroughs has increased the membership to 25 singers, although he still laments that there are only four men. The median age of the members is 71.

Anyone interested in becoming a member can join in at the Northborough Senior Center Thursdays from 1-3 p.m. Sally Wilson is the Managing Director, taking care of the business and marketing ends of their endeavors.

“Manoj has a couple of goals for our group. He would love to have us be the opening act for the Young at Heart choral group in North Hampton, and also have us sing at Mechanics Hall. I personally would love to have us perform on the plaza at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland,” said Wilson. “That’s my lofty goal!”

To reserve seats for the Shrewsbury concert in June, send an email indicating for which performance to RockingTheBoroughs@gmail.com. The concert is supported in part by a grant from the Northborough Cultural Council and the Mass Cultural Council.

General Admission is just $20, with discounts for students and senior citizens. Children under five are free.

TO OUR 2024 EVENING OF GIVING SPONSORS

ENTERTAINMENT SPONSOR

State Representative Hannah Kane

BLACKJACK TABLE SPONSOR

Skin Dermatology

CASINO CARDS SPONSORS

Grossman Development Group/ Lakeway Commons Edward Jones

DESSERT SPONSORS

Michael and Patricia Gregory

Scott & Cindy Fountain Cornerstone Bank

BAR SPONSORS

Michael and Patricia Gregory

The McNamara Family

Erin & Dana Canzano

Castinetti Realty Group

Broken Creek Vineyard

TABLE SPONSORS

Riverlin Animal Hospital

Sue DeFalco

Thomas & Dana Kennedy

McNamara

Scott & Cindy Wyman

Michael & Kathleen Keohane

IN-KIND SPONSORS

Howard & Christine Grossman

Jeremy Grossman

The Haven Country Club

Sachs Jewelers

Scott and Cindy Wyman

Scott and Cindy Fountain

Sean McNamara

Basha Bravehearts Clint and Karen Mills Community Advocate

SYFS Board of Directors

Longtime badminton player picks

By Evan Walsh Reporter

WESTBOROUGH – Tennis and badminton: both require the use of rackets, both are played on similar-looking courts, and both involve the back-andforth of opponents hitting an object over an obstacle.

Yet, for two sports that look alike, there are some fairly dramatic differences.

Just ask Sahasra Kommineni.

A longtime badminton player, the Westborough sophomore officially converted to tennis at the start of her freshman season last year. Now, Kommineni is an important contributor on a Westborough girls tennis team looking to make it to the MIAA Division 2 championship game for the third straight year.

“I feel like the only similarity for me is the fact that they both need hand-eye coordination.

Definitely, it was a difficult transition. It might look like, ‘Oh, they’re both racket sports, they should be the same.’ But it was completely different for me. It was definitely hard to transition into it, but I feel like my coaches did really well helping me into it,” she told the Community Advocate.

From birdie to ball

For much of her life, Kommineni was dedicated to badminton.

In second grade, she started to train with her sister and dad, often practicing six or seven days per week as she grew older. Trying to balance her practice schedule and academics, Kommineni decided to try something new. After speaking to a family friend who was Westborough’s former number-one singles player, Kommineni chose to pick up tennis — even though she hadn’t touched the sport since

AMERICA’S BEST DEFENSE

kindergarten.

The transition was difficult, but Kommineni was able to use her badminton skills to figure out tennis. Although the sports are different, certain things translated.

“I had to roll with it,” said Henderson. “Sometimes you get lucky, sometimes you get unlucky. With Sahasra, I definitely got lucky. We put her in a competitive situation right away, and she delivered.”

Finding community

Aside from the on-the-court play, Kommineni described another way that badminton and tennis differ. Whereas badminton is more individual, playing tennis has given her an opportunity to become part of a team. She’s embraced that opportunity, and she loves traveling to matches with the group.

“I had never really experienced a team sport, but being with them now it’s so fun going to matches. Usually you’re alone with your thoughts, or maybe I’m with my dad, but I’ve made so many new friends from it. We all love playing tennis. It’s fun being with people while doing it,” Kommineni said.

Even the tennis community outside of Westborough has been supportive. Thrown into the fire early in her tennis career, Kommineni had to learn proper tennis etiquette on the fly. It took some time, she said, but she never felt judged or uncomfortable. In fact, she felt supported by just about everyone, even opponents.

According to Henderson, Kommineni has become one of the team’s leaders.

“She’s definitely a leader on the team. … She’s the right level of fun and engaging and serious, and I think other kids pick up on that, and they want to be that way too,” he said.

K arate F o r Ki ds St ren gt hen s Cha ra ct er An d Re i nf o rces :

“Clearly there’s hand-eye coordination and practice holding something with a handle, head and strings. That’s a similarity between [the sports], but I think the biggest thing with Sahasra is that she’s played a racket-court sport. Her ability to swing a tennis racket — maybe that’s natural athletic ability — but her ability to win tennis points comes from having played competitive badminton,” Westborough Head Coach Scott Henderson said. “She’s got the attitude of never giving up, and she’s got great court awareness.”

But little could have prepared Kommineni for how her tennis career would actually begin.

New to tennis, Kommineni didn’t start the first few matches for Westborough. But then, an athlete on her team was injured. Having picked up the sport just months earlier, the freshman took the court: “It was a learning process,” she said.

Kommineni now devotes significant time to tennis, but that doesn’t mean she’s left badminton altogether. In fact, badminton is still very much a part of her life: She plays with family, organizes tournaments for charity and attempts to bring people together at Boston Badminton in Westborough.

The situation is perfect: She loves her tennis family and her badminton family equally.

Shrewsbury Fire Department plans spring showcase

SHREWSBURY – The Fire Department will host a spring showcase on Sunday, June 2, from 2 to 6 p.m. at 11 Church Road.

The event will include station tours, face painting (for a fee), a chance to sit in a fire truck and try on fire equipment and a bicycle safety check. There will also be food trucks, hovercraft and boat display, a technical rescue drill, and more. Sparky the fire dog and Smokey the Bear will be stopping by.

Sahasra Kommineni stands on the Westborough High School tennis court. (Photo/Evan Walsh)

Panthers and Hawks work together on Hudson boys lacrosse team

By Evan Walsh Reporter

HUDSON – Hawks and Panthers are like oil and water in the Central Mass. sports landscape.

The two programs, hailing from Hudson and Marlborough, respectively, are often less than congenial toward one another on the gridiron, baseball field and almost any other athletic event. It’s simple: The orange-and-black and redand-white don’t mix.

However, recently the Hudson boys lacrosse team is changing that narrative, putting aside longstanding athletic rivalries to compete, and win, together. Although the team includes five schools and six towns — Hudson, Marlborough, Clinton, Boylston, West Boylston and Berlin — teammates are united by one thing: a love of lacrosse.

Hawks, Panthers, Stags, Lions and Gaels — they’re all welcome here.

“They didn’t even know each other. The only thing that brings them together is the sport. We didn’t know them. They didn’t know us. They didn’t know each other. We had rival towns playing together. All these rivalries, and they have to put those aside and come together. We had to bring them together, but really the game brought them together,” Head Coach Marty Murphy told the Community Advocate after practice one

Friday afternoon.

It’s not just the Marlborough-Hudson rivalry: Clinton and Hudson have bad blood and Tahanto and West Boylston are traditionally adversaries, for instance, but the rivalries haven’t stopped the team from coming together. If anything, being from different communities has given the athletes something to talk about after practice, the players said.

“I thought past the rivalries. This is a completely different sport. I feel like the tension is pretty much dissipated when you’re on the field together and you’re all interacting. You grow that bond and you set aside all those differences and you become one team. I think that really helped us out, especially coming from all those different communities,” said Clinton’s Ryan Bailey.

“We knew we wanted to win. We wanted to turn this into a winning program. But, our number one focus as coaches was getting all six towns on the same page — parents included,” Coach Mike Notaro Sr. said. “These kids love the game so much they’ve come together.”

But winning wasn’t always easy for the Hawks. The team, which featured only one senior and one junior this year, was much younger than its competition. The team went 0-16 last year, and, entering April, held a 30-game losing streak that went back to 2022.

school.”

The six-town arrangement has downsides, some players admitted. With the team covering roughly 87 square miles, certain athletes drive long distances for practices at Hudson High School. Yet, the team has survived these challenges too. Bailey, one of the only athletes with his driver’s

license, generously chauffeurs his teammates from practice, going well out of his way to make the commute easier for others.

“Everyone talks to everyone. Everyone is wicked friendly with each other. Everyone’s communicating, cooperating. It’s really helped us become who we are,” Bailey said.

Still, the team remained positive.

On April 30, Hudson finally broke through, defeating Bay Path Regional Vocational Technical High School, 9-5, for the team’s first win in two years. The team fought back from a 3-0 deficit to get the victory. In another game against Bay Path on May 4, Hudson won again, 5-4, earning a last-second victory to improve to 2-6.

“The win was pretty monumental… Beating them was a big win for us. It felt like we finally got over that hump of being defeated. It was awesome; a big morale booster for the team as well. It showed us how our hard work paid off,” said Bailey.

And that Hawk pride is hard to shake. After practices, the team — even the Marlborough players — can be found supporting other Hudson programs, including the Hudson softball team. The softball team later reciprocated the gesture, cheering on the lacrosse team as the Hawks earned their first win.

“Even though they’re from six different towns, we fly under the Hudson flag. We’re all Hawks when you come here,” Murphy said. “They all just get along. They’re all very similar, but different. They all bonded together. They fool around together. They’re sort of on the same wavelength. It’s nice to see them getting along. Sometimes you don’t even see that when they’re from the same

The Hudson boys lacrosse team has players from six towns. (Photo/Evan Walsh)

Westborough conducts Memorial Day observances

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – Bonnie Rae Ellis went to UMass-Amherst to become a teacher. She decided to become a nurse instead. Her career included joining the Navy Nurse Corps, where she earned the rank of lieutenant. She served at the St. Albans Naval Hospital in Queens, New York, recalling how she helped with “broken bodies and injured souls.”

In the 1970s, Ellis was part of “Operation Baby Lift,” during which up to 30,000 orphans were evacuated from Vietnam and brought to the United States and other countries.

On Monday, May 27, Ellis served as the grand marshal of the town’s annual Memorial Day observances. In addition to delivering the keynote speech, she helped place wreaths at several cemeteries in town.

While growing up in Westborough, Ellis liked to read

poetry. During her keynote speech, she recited part of “In Flanders Field” by John McCrae — “We are the Dead.

Short days ago/We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,/Loved and were loved, and now we lie,/In Flanders fields.”

Ellis asked the audience to honor those in the military who are doctors, corpsmen,

nurses and medics. “They are the heroes of our heroes,” she said.

Other speakers reminded the audience of the sacrifices made to preserve this nation’s democracy.

“Our honored dead understood our democracy was not a given,” said Select Board member Patrick Welch.

“We must remain vigilant,” said state Sen. Michael Moore (D-Millbury).

As part of the annual observances, veterans, town officials and others visited St. Luke’s, Pine Grove and Midland cemeteries before the main ceremony at the Forbes Municipal Building.

The parade included bands

from Westborough High School and Gibbons Middle School; Boy Scouts; Girl Scouts; and Little League players. Older veterans were transported by bus; as grand marshal, Ellis was driven in a vintage Jeep.

Afterward, veterans were invited to a lunch at the Knights of Columbus.

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EVANDRO

Bonnie Rae Ellis, a retired Naval lieutenant, speaks during Westborough’s annual Memorial Day observances on Monday, May 27. She was the grand marshal.

Jeff Farrell, the town’s veterans services officer, speaks at Midland Cemetery. (Photos/Maureen Sullivan)