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Workshop presents possible scenarios for rotary

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – The plans for the future of downtown are beginning to take shape, including potential changes to the rotary.

During the Planning Department’s second public workshop on downtown, Rotary | 8

DEIB Committee reflects on accomplishments

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – The town’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) Committee has big plans for this year.

Following the death of George Floyd in May 2020, Shrewsbury formed a 25-member Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Task Force, which met for a year before delivering its final recommendations in November 2021. Among other things, the task force recommended the town create an official DEIB Committee. The committee was officially formed in August 2022, and the first meeting was

McAfee to be honored with Hometown Hero banner

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH – It’s been over 50 years since Pfc. David McAfee was killed in the Vietnam War.

However, a local organization has been working to honor his service through a Hometown Heroes banner.

Around the holidays, Boros Cares 4 Troops (BC4T) founder Michelle Gillespie received a call from a woman from New Hampshire who had grown up in Northborough and knew McAfee. She expressed interest in having a banner made for him.

“Although his family had moved out of town, we wanted to honor his memory,” Gillespie said.

Since the Vietnam War, there have been three Northborough residents who have been killed in action, including McAfee, Neil Ellsworth and Brian Arsenault.

The friend helped connect Gillespie to McAfee’s sister, Donna Record, who said she would love to have a banner in honor of her brother.

Pfc. McAfee had enlisted in the Marines in February 1968. According to a 1968 article, he returned in July for a short leave before he was sent to Vietnam in August, two days before his birthday.

He died of gunshot wounds from enemy fire on Aug. 22, 1968, in the Quang Tri Province.

Serving the United States ran in the family. His father served, as did his brothers.

McAfee liked playing baseball, and he also played football in high school. He graduated from Algon-

David McAfee

quin Regional High School in 1967. He worked at Wiles Poultry Farm, caddied at Indian Meadow Golf Club and was a member of Trinity Church.

“He was a typical kid,” said his brother Paul McAfee. He was a good swimmer, too.

Every year, the family would visit Lake Winnipesaukee. Paul and his two brothers would row onto the water, and one of them would swim behind the row boat.

“The town has gone out of their way to do things to honor Dave over the years,” said Paul.

The Ellsworth-McAfee Park is named in his honor. In 1977, the Ellsworth-McAfee Post, Veterans of Foreign Wars, dedicated the intersection of South Street and Northgate Road to McAfee. According to a 1968 article in the Northboro Star, the McAfees lived in Northgate.

“Dave McAfee was a good boy, the type any parent would be proud of. He lacked nothing, including courage, and on the 22nd of Aug. this young man, a graduate of Algonquin Regional High School, became Northboro’s second casualty of the Vietnam War,” the Northboro Star article reads.

PFC.

Summer Pan of RKG Associates, standing, works with attendees of a second public workshop. (Photo/Maureen Sullivan)

Marlborough Downtown Pop-Up Shops

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By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – Shrewsbury’s Scandinavian Athletic Club (SAC) Park was home to one highly anticipated picnic.

On June 8, Worcester County Sheriff Lew Evangelidis hosted his annual Senior Picnic. Over 1,200 seniors (ages 60-plus) from all around Central Massachusetts visited the drivethrough-style picnic for free food, other goodies and an opportunity to speak with the sheriff. Evangelidis went to almost every car, handing out air fresheners and engaging in conversation. Some lucky picnicgoers also won raffle baskets.

“I get to see such great people every year. It’s always an uplifting event. People are excited; they’re happy. It’s a really special day where we get to give back to the community. It’s a happy day. A lot of days in the world you’re fighting with stuff, but today it’s all positive. That’s how I feel about it:

MANAGING EDITOR: Laura Hayes

ASSISTANT EDITOR: Maureen Sullivan

PROJECT EDITOR: Brett Peruzzi

REPORTER: Evan Walsh

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: Debra Roberts

ADVERTISING DEPT: Diane Sabatini | 508.366.5500

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.

The minute I pull in here, I feel this happy energy. The amount of gratitude people have, it’s really special,” Evangelidis told the Community Advocate. Evangelidis said the event keeps getting bigger every year. In addition to several community partners, dozens of volunteers made the event possible, helping direct traffic, hand out food and greet guests. Aside from the boxed lunches given to the seniors, volunteers could be seen passing out freshly popped popcorn, candy, extra waters, Worcester County sheriff-branded merchandise, and other items to help the picnickers remember the event.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Dear Editor,

I read the letter to the editor on May 24 regarding the protests taking place at universities in the United States regarding the war in the Gaza strip.

The ladies who wrote the letter are confused about the first amendment to the constitution and what it protects. These protests are protected because freedom of speech is protected even if you don’t like what the person is saying. That is why it is so difficult to do anything about white supremacists, Nazis, election deniers, conspiracy theorists, vaccine mis-information promoters, January 6th apologists and Donald Trump’s attacks on the American justice system and anyone associated with it and their families.

They are also confused about the use of the sedition act. That comes into play when someone promotes the overthrow of the government of the united States, not the overthrow of a government 5,000 miles away.

The university protestors are upset that the Israeli Defense Force has indiscriminately rained bombs down on the most crowded piece of land in the world killing over 40,000 people, roughly the capacity of Fenway Park. Many of those killed were children who were certainly not Hamas operatives. They are upset that the IDF has bombed refugee camps that have existed since those families were forced off their land in 1946 so Israel could be created.

Other people are upset that Hamas attacked Israel and killed around 1,200 people. Both sides have a point. Both sides have a right to their opinion. The Israelis and Palestinians should have worked this out years ago. I certainly hope they work it out soon before more people on both sides are killed.

Denny Crane Marlborough

Dear Class of 2024 Graduates,

As members of the Class of 2024, your high school experience was dominated by the Covid-19 pandemic, which began when you were finishing 8th grade. You, along with your families, friends, teachers and school administrators, adapted to evolving health guidance and new ways of doing things. You witnessed change, experienced unprecedented circumstances, and pivoted to ‘new normals.’ Along the way, you and your peers developed skills and coping mechanisms to get through these challenges.

The skills and wisdom you’ve gained over the past four years can serve you well as you venture out into the world. I’ve been so heartened when crossing paths with you – at Eagle and Gold Scout ceremonies, community events, and in reading letters you sent me from your Civics classes. Your engagement and ideas give me hope for our future!

I hope you’ll continue to

use your abilities to better the world around you. Right now, the world is in dire need of problem-solvers, peace-makers, and people who put service above self. As we congratulate you and celebrate your graduation, we also honor your potential to make a positive difference in the world — for your families, your communities, your country.

Whether you will be at -

tending university, joining the workforce, or putting service above self and joining a branch of the U.S. military, I know that you have the courage and knowledge to be successful in whatever you choose to do next.

Congratulations graduates!

Sincerely, State Representative Kate Hogan

CLARIFICATION: In regards to “Marlborough cuts K-5 band, orchestra from budget” in the June 7 issue, it had been reported during the School Committee meeting that the K-5 band and orchestra program would be cut. The school district later clarified to the  Community Advocate that this will only affect fifth grade orchestra and band.

Building the Next Generation of Law Firm Leaders

In a time when the legal landscape is constantly shifting, the imperative to cultivate the next generation of rainmakers in the industry has never been more pressing.

Robins Kaplan LLP, a leading national trial law firm with a strong presence in Boston, recently elected Anthony Froio of Shrewsbury as its Chair of the Executive Board and Managing Partner after almost 30 years at the firm. As part of his new role, Froio will spearhead the 200+ lawyer firm’s vision and growth.

Froio is deeply committed to fostering a culture of mentorship and collaboration at Robins Kaplan and the legal industry more broadly. Here’s how he’s looking to help build the next generation of leaders in the legal industry.

What has your career path in law been like?

I joined Robins Kaplan in 1994 as an associate, back when the firm was relatively unknown in Boston—I confess, I hadn’t heard of it when I was first recruited. Fast forward 30 years, the firm is one of the most reputable firms in New England. I was a partner for eight years before becoming Managing Partner of the Boston office, a position I held for nearly 20 years. In March, I was elected Chair of the Executive Board and Managing Partner, unifying two leadership roles for the first time in the firm’s 85-year history. Assuming this new dual role is both a great honor and natural progression of

my dedication to the firm’s values, vision, and goals.

What are your top priorities for Robins Kaplan in the year ahead?

One of my primary goals is to continue fostering a culture of mentorship and collaboration across the firm to provide world class client service. I believe effective collaboration and communication are essential to success, so I’m committed to ensuring our vision and objectives are transparent and understood at all levels of the firm. I’m also dedicated to continuing a culture of diversity and inclusion where women and diverse attorneys receive the mentorship and guidance they need to advance their legal careers.

Who was your greatest influence in your career and path to leadership?

Steve Schumeister, my immediate predecessor as Robins Kaplan’s Managing Partner, has been instrumental in my career journey and path to leadership in the firm. He has spent and continues to spend significant time offering me invaluable guidance in strategic planning, whether that’s explaining past practices or introducing me to key personnel and strategic partners both inside and outside the firm. Steve has helped shape Robins Kaplan’s culture of support that extends beyond professionalism—something I’m committed to preserving and strengthening to ensure that every member of our firm feels valued and empowered to thrive.

How can partners and senior attorneys be the best mentors to young lawyers?

Actively involving young lawyers in cases from start to finish, allowing them to gain firsthand experience

in all aspects of case management, is one of the best ways for partners and senior attorneys to effectively mentor young lawyers. By offering leadership roles on assignments including depositions and motion hearings, while including them in client pitches and strategy meetings, partners can empower young lawyers to take ownership of their professional development and gain invaluable experience.

What advice would you give to young attorneys who want to become leaders in the legal industry?

First and foremost, learn to listen and listen well. Take the time to really hear and understand the perspectives of those around you because the insights and feedback from colleagues, mentors, and clients are invaluable in shaping your growth as leaders. Second, become indispensable to your colleagues, clients, and team and always lead by example. Third, it’s imperative to understand your firm’s history, culture, business model, and trajectory. Respect the values and traditions that define your firm while also seeking opportunities for growth and innovation. Last, learn to be both comfortable and confident in your decisions, and accept challenging work outside of your comfort zone. Having that confidence is crucial to leading a firm, so trust in your abilities and judgment while remaining open to feedback and continuous learning.

Anthony Froio AFroio@RobinsKaplan.com

617.267.2300

www.robinskaplan.com

Anthony Froio

Shrewsbury Fire Chief Vuona to retire after 32 years

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – After 32 years with the Shrewsbury Fire Department, Fire Chief Jim Vuona is set to retire.

A lifelong Shrewsbury resident and 1980 graduate of Shrewsbury High School, 62-year-old Vuona has spent his entire career at the department, including nine years as a firefighter, eight as a captain and the last 15 years as the chief. When he leaves, he will have hired 30 members of the 47-person department.

“I love the fact you get the opportunity to make a difference in the community and help people on a daily basis. As I moved up through the ranks, I wanted to have a bigger impact on the department and the community as well,” Vuona told the Community Advocate in his Shrewsbury Fire Department office.

Vuona’s long career began in an unexpected way: a soft-

ball game with friends.

“I started playing on a team with some of my friends, and some of the guys on the team were on the Fire Department, so I started playing softball with them. They encouraged me to take the test – I had an uncle and cousin who were on the job at the time – so, I took the test and I became interested in the job,” he said. Soon enough, he became an on-call firefighter.

In his time managing the

Shrewsbury Fire Chief Jim Vuona will be retiring after 32 years with the Fire Department. (Photo/ Evan Walsh)

six-engine, three-station department, Vuona has added 10 positions, which he said have

been monumental for keeping Shrewsbury — and his firefighters — safe as call volumes have steadily increased. In addition to increasing the staffing level, Vuona added a full-time mechanic position and deputy chief position, which mainly focuses on fire prevention. The department has also made strides with technology under Vuona, modernizing equipment.

“I think the level of sophistication that we have now compared to when I started— it’s night and day,” he said.

Vuona plans to continue teaching at Anna Maria Col-

lege’s fire science program after retiring. He’ll also do some consulting work.

“I really like the opportunity to work with young people who want to become firefighters. It’s a way to kind of give back, too. I’ve taken in all this information and experience over the years, and now that’s what I do with it,” he said.

But he’ll stay in Shrewsbury, at least for the time being.

“I like to say, ‘Everything’s got a shelf life’ … I still feel like I have a few years left that I’d like to try something else,” he said.

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – More than 20 local vendors are now calling the Boroughs Collective on East Main Street their home.

On Wednesday, June 5, the main organizer of the collective, Anna LeDuc of LeDuc Antiques, formally opened the place with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

“It’s an expanded business and a new concept,” said Karen Chapman, president and CEO of the Corridor 9/495 MetroWest Chamber of Commerce. “I’m so proud of Anna LeDuc.”

“It’s nice to come and help entrepreneurs … 80% of our nation’s economy is based on small businesses,” said state Sen. Michael Moore (DMillbury).

Moore presented LeDuc with citations from the House of Representatives and Senate.

LeDuc came up with the idea when the lease for LeDuc Antiques was up for renewal. She wanted more space; a former bank just up the street had more space than she needed. LeDuc then sought out other vendors who wanted a place to sell their wares, with a fraction of the rent.

“It [the collective] brings together other business owners,” she said.

The Boroughs Collective started with a few vendors

in March; the list of current vendors includes Hygge House Books, Hive Works, Décor and Marion’s Workshop.

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

More openings

A couple of new businesses are setting up shop in town.

Fresh Monkee, which will offer healthy snacks and protein shakes, is opening its first Massachusetts location at Westmeadow Plaza, 166 Milk St, this summer. It’s taking over the space formerly occupied by Dunkin’ Donuts.

The franchise started in Connecticut about eight years ago.

Darts Barbershop will also be opening in the Westmeadow Plaza. It’s moving from Northborough to the former home of Town and Country Jewelers.

Both businesses are scheduled to open within the next month, according to Mark Zepf of the Westborough Economic Development Committee.

The Corridor 9/495 chamber also celebrated the newly renovated Westborough Inn on Milk Street on Tuesday, June 4.

Anna LeDuc, with scissors, cuts the ribbon at the Boroughs Collective on Wednesday, June 5. (Photo/ Maureen Sullivan)

NYSA, Uhlman’s partner to open snack shack

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH – The Northborough Youth Soccer Association (NYSA) and Uhlman’s Ice Cream are partnering to open the Field of Dreams Cafe at Ellsworth-McAfee Park.

“I’m excited to see how successful it is because so many people have come up and said, ‘Thank you.’ I’m excited because it is a pure win-win situation,” said Uhlman’s Kelley Marston.

Marston and NYSA board member Jordana Emerson have been friends for years.

One day, Marston was driving by Ellsworth-McAfee Park and noticed that the Field of Dreams cafe wasn’t open. She called Emerson and asked what was going on with the snack shack and who ran it.

Emerson said the Field of Dreams Cafe hasn’t been open for more than five years. They learned that while the town owns the snack shack, it is run by the Northborough Youth

Soccer Association. One of the issues, if the shack is staffed by volunteers, is that they have to worry about staffing and potential issues like theft. NYSA’s board is made up of parent volunteers, said Emerson.

“We all are busy. To actually volunteer for something like this additionally would be impossible for us. This is such a great alternative,” said Emerson.

Marston, who owns Uhlman’s Ice Cream and lives in Northborough, proposed a snack shack that could be run like one of her ice cream trucks.

As for the benefits? The shack will sell water bottles when a child inevitably forgets theirs, and it could be used as motivation for a sweet treat after the game. Additionally, the shack will provide more jobs for local teens and can serve as training wheels before working at Uhlman’s shop.

“The amount of people that live on this street that have come up and said, ‘Thank you,’ [is amazing]” said Marston.

One of the neighbors told her that they enjoy grabbing ice cream and walking around the park.

In addition to ice cream and kettle corn, the shack will also sell donuts from Tougas, Aero Coffee, Big League Chew, SLUSH PUPPiE, cotton candy, chips, Gatorade, water and penny candy.

Marston said they gave an

upfront donation to NYSA and the Recreation Department. The hours of the cafe are Thursday and Friday 4 to 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. It will also be open during summer concerts and other events.

Registration is now open for NYSA in the fall. For more information, visit https:// nysa.net/.

SCHEDULE YOUR TOUR TODAY AND FIND YOUR PERFECT FIT AT ARTISAN CALL (978) 763-8165.

Maddy Webster scoops ice cream inside the Field of Dreams Cafe. (Photos/ Laura Hayes)

Jordana Emerson, Kelley Marston, Maddy Websiter and Samantha Sipowicz gather at the snack shack.

Westborough workshop presents possible scenarios for rotary

Rotary | from page 1

which took place on Wednesday, June 5, at the Great Hall, attendees worked in teams to make changes to maps of downtown.

The objective? To better envision what these changes would look like — zoning, parking, amenities, traffic and especially, the rotary.

Francisco Gomes of FHI

Studio, which is working with RKG Associates on the downtown plan, presented the current condition of the rotary. Gomes said the rotary isn’t doing a good job.

“There are a lot of crashes, and it’s not great for pedestrians,” he said.

Three “scenarios” were presented — a circle with minimum changes to the pres-

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ent rotary; a triangle, where part of the rotary would be altered, with changes to East Main and South streets; and a square, which straightens out the streets surrounding the rotary, creates a new street, and may necessitate removing at least two buildings.

The consultants and attendees favored the “triangle” option because it offered a better traffic flow.

The workshop also included presentations on zoning and mobility, such as parking, bicycle lanes, traffic signals and sidewalks.

According to Eric Halvorsen, principal with RKG Associates, the information gathered from this workshop, and the first planning workshop held last month, will be combined into a report that will be presented to town staff.

After the town receives the report, it will begin working with the state’s Department of Transportation toward making any changes recommended.

Learn more about the plans for downtown at https://www. westboroughma.gov/1040/ Downtown-DevelopmentPlan.

McAfee | from page 1

BC4T is already working on a banner in McAfee’s honor; they are also working to add him to the banner of veterans who have been killed in action and the Purple Heart banners, located in the Town Common.

There are nearly 200 banners in Northborough; Gillespie described McAfee as the “missing link” as the organization couldn’t find his family to get approval and information needed for a banner.

“It is important to Northborough to recognize his service. He was an integral part of the community, lost his life at a young age in Vietnam and should be honored for his service,” said Gillespie.

BC4T is accepting photos of veterans who have lived in Northborough for a Hometown Hero banner. For information on how to participate, visit http://www.bc4t.org/ hometown-heroes.html.

Normand Corbin helped research this article.

Three possible scenarios for the Rotary , presented during the second public workshop on downtown planning.

Shrewsbury’s DEIB Committee reflects on accomplishments, future events

held on Jan. 9, 2023.

DEIB | from page 1 and Crane Lake Camp Director Efraim Yudewitz. Another forum was hosted in late April to gather ideas for upcoming DEIB Committee events.

The group aims to “support and foster an inclusive and equitable community that enhances belonging for all residents,” according to the committee’s charge. The committee is also expected to facilitate discussions, organize community events, and “foster civic engagement with the goal of increasing diverse participation in town boards, committees and Town Meeting.”

“The work of the DEIB Committee aligns with the vision outlined in Shrewsbury’s 2030 Strategic Plan, to be a vibrant, inclusive, collaborative community where all can thrive,” Select Board member Beth Casavant, who frequently attended the group’s early meetings, said.

The committee’s seven members (as of May 2024) — Chair Cinthia Mesquita, Adeola Mbaneme, Bindu Gupta, Freddi Koss, Pankaj Adaval, Holly MillerShank and high-school representative Kubra Mohammadi — have worked together over the last year to accomplish these goals.

Although the DEIB Committee started with plenty of ideas to bring to the community, it was difficult to jump right into hosting large-scale events. With few residents familiar with one of the town’s newest committees, the group instead spent time introducing itself to Shrewsbury and attended several events throughout town.

“Last year, we spent a lot of time trying to piggy-back onto things that were already happening. We were at Spirit of Shrewsbury — we were there to bring awareness that we’re here, and we’re really trying to get involved in some other things so people know who we are,” Mesquita told the Community Advocate in April. “We’ve had a little bit of a slow start, I think, and we were still trying to figure out… the things that we wanted to do.”

The committee now has a monthly half-page spot in the Senior Center newsletter and recently started “Neighbor to Neighbor,” a production on Shrewsbury Media Connection that aims to showcase the group’s objectives and goals. The DEIB Committee has also held several forums. The “Coming to the Table” forum, held in February, featured STOP Program organizer Ridha Alam

“I think sometimes… the term ‘DEI’ is so politicized that people are afraid to even talk about it. But I think at the heart of it we all want the same thing — we all want to have this sense of community and have our kids grow up happy and safe,” Mesquita said. “I feel like, for me personally, creating that sense of community is important. We can all be different. We can all have different opinions,

but at the heart of it, it’s about bringing people together, finding that common ground and working towards creating a community we’re all proud of.”

With one year under its belt, the DEIB Committee has ambitious plans.

On June 20, the committee will host the town’s first-ever Juneteenth celebration. In recent meetings, the group has discussed contacting Blackowned businesses and food trucks. On June 26, the DEIB Committee will hold the town’s first-ever Pride event at Dean Park. The community is invited

to each of the groundbreaking celebrations.

“It being the first [series of events], it’s challenging. But I feel like it also gives us something to build on, and make it better for next year. There’s a lot that goes into it. We’re all learning what it takes to put together an event. It’s a tremendous amount of work,” said Mesquita.

The DEIB Committee is seeking volunteers. While the committee is still in the process of getting an official Shrewsbury email, residents can contact Communications Coordi-

nator Taylor Galusha, who will forward the information to the committee. The group hopes to start a database of volunteers.

“I’m definitely happy with the work that we’ve been doing… I also feel like it does take so much planning to run these events, and we want to make sure we’re doing our best for each one. It may not be a huge thing, but for us it’s a huge thing. We’re very proud of the events we’re putting together, and we’re committed to the work we’re doing. Hopefully, we’ll be able to build on it,” Mesquita said.

No lifeguards at Chauncy Beach this summer

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – The Westborough Recreation Department is preparing for another summer at Lake Chauncy without lifeguards.

According to Director Jenn Kirkland, they did not get “nearly enough” applicants to fully staff the beach, so it will be “swim at

your own risk” once the beach officially opens in late June.

However, Kirkland said swim lessons will be offered through an outside vendor. Details will be announced soon, she said.

During swim lessons, the beach’s bathrooms will be open; otherwise, those using the beach will have to use the porta potties in the parking lot.

Select Board member Shelby Marshall asked whether a senior in the tax work-off program could be a crossing guard and bathroom attendant in order to keep the bathrooms open.

Because there will be no lifeguards, the beach hours will be limited to Town Hall hours, said Kirkland.

Select Board Chair Patrick

Welch asked whether those hours could be modified.

“It’s not as accessible as it needs to be,” he said. “I’d like to see it [the beach] more fully utilized.”

On the maintenance front, Kirkland said the lake will be tested regularly for bacteria and algae, and it will be treated for weeds.

At New Horizons retirement community in Marlborough, our spacious residences and on-site amenities have aesthetic appeal 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.

Other summer programs

Kirkland said the annual block party is a go for Friday, June 28, from 5:30 to 9 p.m. The annual Independence Day celebration will include rides, food trucks, booths and music from the Reminisants. The Summer Concert Series is also ready to go. Come to Bay State Commons on the following dates at 6 p.m. Bring a lawn chair or blanket.

July 9 – The Midtown Horns; July 23 – SNG; Aug. 6 – Holdin’ Back the 60s.

Also sometime during the summer – public meetings regarding the Community Center. Both Kirkland and Town Manager Kristi Williams said a schedule will be established once an architect for the project is hired.

For program updates, visit https://westboroma.myrec.com/ info/default.aspx, or the department’s Facebook page.

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH – Northborough has received a $250,000 grant to construct a dog park at 150 Boundary St.

The Select Board accepted the grant from the Stanton Foundation during its June 3 meeting.

“This is great news. Thank you,” said Select Board member Laura Ziton. “I know there’s a really eager dog park group in town that will look forward to this.”

According to a memo from Planning Director Laurie Connors to the Select Board, as the town received the grant, it will be able to execute a contract with the lowest bidder for the construction of the project, M.J. Cataldo, Inc., of $585,352. Department of Public Works Director Scott Charpentier said that total includes both the grant and funds from the Community Preservation Act.

Charpentier said the goal is to get the park substantially constructed and completed this year so that the project could be opened next spring.

The Planning Board had approved plans for the dog park in December, which call for small and large dog areas that will be separated by a fence. Between the small and large dog areas will be a shade structure with benches.

Select Board approves all-alcohol license for Sunflower Shanty

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

GRAFTON – Houlden Farm’s Sunflower Shanty is getting closer to opening for the season.

On Tuesday, June 4, the Select Board approved a general, on-premise all-alcohol license by a 4-1 vote.

The lone dissenter, Andrew Jefferson, said he was not in favor because he was under the impression that the facility would be a beer garden.

“This was not what was pitched to us as,” he said.

Rachel Houlden, who will manage the Sunflower Shanty, said the request for an allalcohol license was made to expand its offerings — such as vodka seltzer — and to rent out the facility for weddings and other social occasions in the future.

She said had they applied for just the beer-and-wine license, “we’d have to come every weekend for a one-day [all alcohol] license.”

The board’s approval came with a word of caution.

“They’re going to have to manage this,” said Select Board member Matt Often, referring to the expanded license.

The license still has to be approved by the state’s Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission.

Outdoor music license

After an extensive discussion, the Select Board approved the annual outdoor music license for Houlden Farm on Tuesday, May 7.

From May to September, the Sunflower Shanty will have live music Fridays and Saturdays from 1 to 8:30 p.m., and six Thursdays during that period from 4 to 8:30 p.m.

In September and October, live music will be performed on Thursdays from 4 to 8:30 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 1 to 8:30 p.m., and Sundays from 1 to 5 p.m. (acoustic only).

The schedule came after a compromise between board members and the farm’s Tyler

Houlden.

“We’ve been going through this process,” said Houlden. “I want to respect these people [the neighbors] and move on.”

“We need to get this settled once and for all,” said Select Board member Mark Alimo.

Earlier this year, the Planning Board approved a special permit and site plan approval

for the farm’s use as a seasonal outdoor eating and drinking venue, along with live entertainment.

The permit is subject to several conditions, including noise control, trash removal and traffic.

Live music will be performed within a temporary enclosed structure, facing

northeast. When not in use, the structure will be dismantled and stored.

Parking will not be allowed on Wesson Street, Old Westboro Road or on neighboring properties.

While some neighbors support live music to help keep the farm in operation, others have stated their opposition.

“Is there really a need for amplified music 140 feet from our home on the weekdays or even Sundays until 9 p.m.?” said neighbor Jennifer Rychlik in an email to the Select Board.

The Sunflower Shanty offers food, beer, wine and ice cream, along with children’s activities. Dates for 2024 have yet to be announced.

Aging Gracefully

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

COUNSELING FOR THE ELDERLY e tax needs of seniors are unique and often involve retirement and

situations. Sometimes a little extra help may be needed to gure out the often-complicated tax rules. is is where the TCE Program can help. Tax Counseling for the Elderly provides free tax assistance to people who are age 60 and older. IRS-certi ed volunteers provide free assistance and basic income tax return preparation to quali ed individuals at community locations including libraries, schools, and neighborhood centers across the nation. e volunteers are often retired individuals associated with a non-pro t organization such as the AARP, which operates many of these tax preparation sites. No application is needed to use the program, and online resources are also available to assist.

P.S. Be sure to ask about virtual tax assistance with Tax Counseling for the Elderly.

Notre Dame Health Care

Seniors on the move

Christopher Heights of Marlborough, MA

Christopher Heights of Marlborough, MA, is a vibrant and welcoming senior living community that o ers a warm and nurturing environment for its residents. Nestled in a picturesque setting, Christopher Heights combines the charm of small-town living with the convenience of urban amenities. The community is known for its compassionate staff, beautifully maintained grounds, and a variety of engaging activities tailored to seniors.

Residents of Christopher Heights enjoy an array of fun and social activities designed to foster connection and joy. From weekly bingo games and arts and cra s sessions to fitness classes and movie nights, there is always something exciting happening. e community also organizes outings to local attractions, including a local live music venue, shopping, and seasonal ice cream shops. ese activities not only keep residents active but also provide ample opportunities for socialization and building lasting friendships.

Marlborough itself is a wonderful area for seniors, o ering a blend of natural beauty and modern conveniences. e town boasts several parks, walking trails, and cultural attractions like the Marlborough Public Library and the local senior center, which hosts additional events and programs. Residents of Christopher Heights o en express how much they love living in such a supportive and dynamic community. ey appreciate the sense of belonging, the safety and security provided, and the numerous opportunities to stay engaged and active. At Christopher Heights, seniors nd a place where they can thrive, make new friends, and enjoy their golden years to the fullest.

508-281-8001 99 Pleasant St., Marlborough, MA www.christopherheights.com

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

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

Aerial art installation to open at New England Botanic Garden

BOYLSTON – New England

Botanic Garden at Tower Hill is getting ready to unveil an outdoor aerial art installation.

The exhibition is called “Flora in Flight, Aerial Art by Patrick Shearn of Poetic Kinetics.” It features a trilogy of large-scale kinetic art that will transform spaces in the garden into living tapestries of color.

The works of art are constructed from ultra-lightweight materials that are suspended overhead to create an immersive and wondrous experience.

“We couldn’t be more excited to bring the unique work of Patrick Shearn and Poetic Kinetics to the Garden,” said Exhibitions Manager Lea Morgan.

Avidia Bank hires Jensen

HUDSON – Avidia Bank has announced that Barry Jensen has been hired as the executive vice president and chief administrative officer.

Jensen is a seasoned bank senior executive with over two decades of experience and expertise in strategy, operations, information technology and risk management. He recently served as executive vice president, chief technology and operations officer at Rockland Trust.

He has a master’s of business administration in finance from Bentley University and a bachelor’s from Salem State University.

“We are delighted to bring Barry’s extensive knowledge, strong leadership, and proven track record of success to Avidia,” said President and CEO of Avidia Robert Cozzone. “In this strategic new role, he will be instrumental in helping us build scalable, efficient, and cost-effective technology to modernize, simplify, and enhance banking for our customers for years to come.”

In his role, Jensen will spearhead project management teams and Avidia’s strategic initiative to simplify and modernize operations, systems and service offerings to enhance operational efficiencies and the customer experience.

Every summer, the garden has outdoor sculpture installations. “Flora in Flight” will be one of the largest installations to date, spanning 3,317 total square feet.

“It’s been a joy to see this beautiful, immense project come to life and to collaborate with such a talented and thoughtful group of artists,” said Morgan.

Shearn is the founder and creative director of Poetic Kinetics, which is a creative arts and design studio based in

Colorado Springs. He began his career in the film industry and worked on special and visual effects for a number of films, including “Jurassic Park,” “Fight Club” and “Interview with the Vampire.” Today, his art is fueled by a passion for exploring human connection, emotion and the relationship with the natural world.

“When visitors encounter my work, they step into a realm where art merges with nature, responding dynamically to the environment. As they walk through installations like ‘Flora in Flight,’ they will see vast, fluid canvases of color, constantly in motion, dancing with the wind,” he said.

Visitors will be able to experience the exhibit from June 22 to Oct. 31 with the cost of general admission seven days a week. On Wednesdays and Thursdays in the summer, visitors will be able to view the exhibit by twilight. For more information, visit nebg.org.

REGION – Papalia Home Services understands the importance of clean water for your health. It has been reported that tap and well water may contain hidden contaminants such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), which are associated with serious health issues.

Additionally, chlorine, lead, germs and hard water can be common concerns and are capable of causing scale build up. Hard water has the potential to damage pipes and appliances over time, leading to costly repairs and replacements.

Papalia Home Services believes that water testing and filtration are essential to ensure your safety. The company provides solutions such as Whole Home and Under Sink Reverse Osmosis Systems to combat a range of pollutants and secure clean water throughout the residents.

Water systems that are in-

stalled by Papalia are certified by NSF and ANSI, proving their effectiveness in removing harmful contaminants like PFAS and PFOS. This certification provides confidence to homeowners that they are safeguarding their family’s health and also prolonging the lifespan of their appliances and plumbing.

Homeowners should call 978-806-4922 for a complimentary water test and consultation. It can also be scheduled online at callpappy.com.

DREAM FLORA by Patrick Shearn

Papalia Home Services provides water filtration systems.

Class of 2024 visits former schools for Senior Walk

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – Shrewsbury High School seniors took one last stroll through their preschool and elementary school classrooms.

In the days before and after the Class of 2024’s graduation ceremony on May 30, seniors had the opportunity to return to their old stomping grounds, reuniting with former teachers, celebrating with current students and revisiting their old cafeteria, gymnasium, and playground. Dozens of students, dressed in mortarboard caps and gowns, attended these Senior Walk activities.

“It’s so great to have them back. You can just see how excited they get. Even if they don’t remember every detail, there’s always one memory from preschool they remember and hold on to,” Preschool Director Bridget Nichols said while the seniors were visiting Parker Road Preschool on May 29. “The preschool students

get so excited. It’s something for them to aspire to. They get swept up in the moment as well. They’re cheering and hollering. The teachers—for the teachers that had the students—they remember all these specific details that even parents and the kids themselves don’t remember.”

At Parker Road—and many

of the district’s other events at Floral Street Elementary School (June 3), Calvin Coolidge Elementary School (June 3), Spring Street Elementary School (June 4), and Walter J. Paton Elementary School (June 3)—students gathered in the hallways to high-five the graduates. The graduates were invited to

speak to the preschool students at Parker Road, and at Paton, the students and graduates gathered outside to celebrate and engage in a brief dance party.

At Spring Street, graduates found the school’s Class of 2016 plaque with all of their names on it.

“Spring Street School is

such a special place. The kids love coming back to see their teachers. It’s a great send-off for them, to complete their Shrewsbury Public Schools experience,” said Erin Boucher, who organized the event alongside Katie Heald.

“This place holds very special memories,” said Heald.

EVANDRO A.

Shrewsbury High School graduates visit Parker Road Preschool. (Photo/ Evan Walsh)

Shrewsbury High School graduates visit Spring Street Elementary School. (Photo/Evan Walsh)

Town seeks wardens to monitor transfer station

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – The town’s new pay-as-you-throw (PAYT) program continues to evolve as July 1 draws near.

Town Manager Kristi Williams provided an update to the Select Board on May 28.

The town is negotiating with E.L. Harvey/Waste Connections for a new hauling contract, she said; the town is also close to a deal with WasteZero, the vendor that will provide the new PAYT bags once the program begins.

The bags will be maroon, as will the new permits (stickers).

The permits — which will be on the vehicle’s front bumper — will include the vehicle’s plate number.

Enforcement of the new regulations will be handled through the Board of Health. According to Director Jennifer Sullivan, the board plans to appoint wardens “to help monitor the use of the transfer station and yard waste sites.

“The wardens on duty will have full authority over the disposal and recycling areas,” she said.

The town sought volunteers to serve as waste management wardens. Applications were due by Wednesday, June 12. Visit https://westboroughma.granicus.com/boards/ forms/800/apply.

Williams added that it will take a few months to “enforce and educate” as residents become better acquainted with the new program.

Residents will have a chance to learn more at a “Payas-You-Throw 101” public information session on Tuesday, June 18, at 6 p.m. in Memorial Hall, third floor of Town Hall, 34 W. Main St.

About PAYT

All residents who bring bagged waste to the transfer station must do so in the prop-

er pay-as-you-throw bags with an up-to-date transfer station sticker affixed to their vehicle.

These bags will be available for purchase through the Board of Health office on the second floor of Town Hall, with additional purchasing locations yet to be determined. Two different bag rolls will be available for purchase for $10: a) a roll of 10 15-gallon bags and b) a roll of five 33-gallon bags.

The program would not apply in certain circumstances:

• Westborough residents who live in an apartment building/multifamily residence.

• Residents who have curbside disposal with a private company.

• Residents who utilize the transfer station for recycling only.

For information, visit https://ma-westborough.civicplus.com/1246/Pay-As-YouThrow-Information.

Corridor 9/495 MetroWest Chamber of Commerce unveils new name

WESTBOROUGH – The Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of Commerce has a new name –the Corridor 9/495 MetroWest Chamber of Commerce.

The new name and logo was unveiled during the chamber’s annual meeting on June 7.

“The chamber has not merged with any other entity. The chamber has entered a new chapter as the largest chamber of commerce in the MetroWest region with over 500 member businesses and organizations. Our member businesses now hail from 67 towns and cities from Worcester to Boston, and Rhode Island,” said President/ CEO Karen Chapman.

The chamber began as the Westborough/Northborough Chamber. Over the years, the chamber grew and adopted several other names before it became the Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of Commerce in 2018.

“While we are grounded in

the Route 9/495 region, the rebrand recognizes the chamber’s 45 years of growth as a regional business organization, and further strengthens the relationships with all the businesses we serve in the MetroWest region,” said Chair Dave Kaiser. With this rebranding, the chamber aims to enhance its engagement with existing members while also attracting

new businesses and entrepreneurs to join by remaining committed to providing advocacy, networking opportunities, diverse business groups, educational opportunities and a platform for business growth. The chamber will update its website and printed materials to reflect the new name and logo over the next several weeks.

The 2024 Officers & Directors of Corridor 9/495 MetroWest Chamber of Commerce. (photo/Andy Weigl)

HOMES MORE&

We need water for life and water can destroy a building.

By Gary Kelley

Isat at someone’s home recently and spied the telltale signs of a bathroom leak — brown splotches following the lines of ceiling sheetrock. I suspect the leak was repaired as there was an obviously replaced area around 4’ x 4’ in the ceiling. Hopefully, there was no mold growing in the ceiling cavity.

508-733-6005

MoveWithGary.com

Gary@MoveWithGary.com

Houses and water don’t mix well. In fact, water can destroy a house. A friend had a dishwasher fail catastrophically one summer day. The washer would not stop spewing water. The main water line valve didn’t work. Ditto the shut off at the street. It took an emergency visit from a plumber and Servpro to mitigate the water, then the 5-year renovation got finished in 5 months. And no, insurance didn’t pay for all of it. This is where having a home equity line of credit in place can be helpful.

Bathrooms and kitchens are prime areas for leaks. In a way I am

surprised we have indoor plumbing. And it beats an outhouse. And often where there’s rot water isn’t far away.

Water can be destructive from the outside, too.

I remember going to the beach (when I was far younger) and digging a big hole until I hit water. That little water hole provided hours of entertainment as my personal marina with sandcastles around the rim. Some days, I would dig a little river to the nearby lake.

While we didn’t have tides, inevitably the sides of my little marina would erode, and my marina was no more. Heck, I remember the shores of Lake Erie eroding with the lake eventually consuming “lakeshore” houses. Landowners fought valiantly to save their homes using piers, jetties, dredging, rip rap rocks (say goodbye to the sandy beach), pilings, etc. and the lake always won.

This taught me water is destructive to a home.

With all our advances water can still be very destructive to a home, leading to extreme measures to protect buildings. I have little Wi-Fi sensors alerting me to water leaks. They make units for shutting off water if there is a leak.

June 12*

June 19

June

July

July

Concert Series Concert Series

The Willows at Westborough is thrilled to announce their 2024 Summer Concert Series, featuring a lineup of incredible artists and bands, set in their beautiful community courtyard. ALL CONCERTS: 7:00–8:15

July

July

If you have signs of water in your home, do not ignore them. Water does not rest. A leaky roof can lead to wall & foundation deterioration. A drip in the bath can cause damage below (or over a bit if the water runs.) Nobody wants to hear “mold” or especially “black mold.” Fix things before they get worse.

Need tools for home search: MoveWithGary.com

Gary is heard on WCRN AM 830 and “All Things Real Estate Podcast” on all the major podcast outlets.

If you need advice on selling your home or buying a new one, give us a call 508-733-6005.

Civic Club donation supports museum passes

WESTBOROUGH – The Friends of the Westborough Public Library received a donation from the Westborough Civic Club.

The funds will sponsor many of the popular museum passes that the library has available for the community. The passes allow the holder to receive discounted admissions to art and discovery museums, state parks, gardens and reserves in the area.

Specifically, the Civic Club is sponsoring the American Heritage Museum, Davis Farmland, Discovery Museum and the New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill.

Visit westboroughlibrary.org for a full list of passes and for information on how to reserve a pass.

Clients

Elements Massage has been changing lives by providing tailored massage to meet the needs of their clients for more than twelve years. The team of over 20 licensed therapists are committed to fostering a safe environment and collaborating with clients to meet their needs. “Our service is

highly client-centric as each massage is tailored to the clients’ needs. It revolves around their comfort, safety, and satisfaction,” stated owner Andrew Dudka.

It is well established that Massage therapy provides multiple benefits, including stress relief, relaxation, pain relief and management, improved circulation, increased mental well-being, improved sleep, reduced blood pressure, and more. The experienced and dedicated massage therapists at Elements Massage provide an array of services, from deep tissue massages—known for enhancing blood flow to muscles and expediting healing—to “Cupping Therapy,” a technique employing suction to bolster well-being.

seeking to unwind, rejuvenate and improve overall well-being find their customized care at Elements Massage.

Whether one seeks relaxation or recovery from an injury, Elements Massage stands ready to serve. Receiving a massage on a monthly basis optimizes the benefits of massage and helps individuals positively impact their health and well-being. “To provide people with the opportunity of monthly massages, we offer an easy membership for clients to receive a monthly massage at a heavily discounted price.” remarked Dudka. The membership entails no long-term obligation—members can cancel within a month—and it allows them to “bank” massages for future use if desired.

Dudka emphasized the need to “Take an hour for yourself and unwind, ease pain and reduce stress. You are important and your well-being is paramount.” Elements Massage also extends several add-on services, such as CBD (derived from hemp but non-psychoactive), aromatherapy, and Himalayan Salt Stone.

“Make an appointment today and look forward to feeling fantastic,” Dudka urged. “Experience what sets us apart.”

Elements Massage is conveniently located at 100 Boston Turnpike (White City Shopping Center). For further details, visit https://elementsmassage.com/ shrewsbury or call (508) 925-5100.

Maureen Amyot, Library Director; Kevin Johnson, President of the Friends; Wendi Comey, Treasurer of the Friends; and representatives of the Westborough Civic Club: George Grosner, Bill Kohler, Tom Dwyer

COMMUNITY CLASSIFIED

Family-run Santimaw Contracting celebrates a decade of quality work

By Evan Walsh Reporter

REGION – Santimaw Contracting treats you like family because the company is family itself.

Daniel and David Santimaw, two brothers with 20 years of experience in the construction industry, established Santimaw Contracting in 2014. Ten years—and thousands of projects later—the company has grown considerably and developed a reputation for quality craftsmanship, fair pricing and respect for customers and partners.

It all starts with the brothers.

Daniel and David Santimaw, alongside several other family members like their grandfather and stepmother, are fully involved with the business and invested in the community, with families in West Boylston and Boylston, respectively. With

the name Santimaw on every project the company completes, it’s important to the brothers to consistently provide quality, high-caliber work. It’s a hallmark of the company.

“With David’s technical skills and Dan’s business acumen, the brothers form a dynamic duo driving the company’s rapid growth. They prioritize surrounding themselves with mentors and partners to ensure ongoing success and

advancement of their business,”

Office Manager Julieann Lamy told the Community Advocate. “We are a dedicated family-run company. We are extremely proud of what Dan and Dave have accomplished so far.”

Santimaw Contracting is a full-service contractor specializing in framing single-family and two-family homes, duplexes, and additions. The company has evolved into a top-tier luxury home builder and has

wide-ranging experience building custom homes; some of the company’s most-elaborate projects are featured on its Facebook page. Santimaw Contracting also does roofing, siding and window replacements.

In addition to providing fair pricing and high-quality work, the company prides itself on being communicative and respectful. In an industry like contracting — where companies work on people’s property or homes — communication is key, and Santimaw Contracting strives to keep clients informed about what’s happening. The extra effort to communicate inspires trust and ultimately gives the homeowners added comfort.

“We fully understand the importance and impact of construction on people’s lives. We are keenly aware and respectful that we are coming into people’s homes and onto their prop -

erty and disrupting their lives, many times causing stress. We make absolutely sure that we fully inform the homeowners of each step of the project from the planning stages, throughout the construction, right to the very completion of the project and beyond. Our customers have often expressed relief and are thankful when we make the effort to walk them through the entire process,” said Lamy.

Santimaw Contracting is based in West Boylston. To contact the company, please reach out to Lamy at 508-523-6464 or office.SantimawContracting@ gmail.com. Or, please reach out to Dan at 774-261-0994 or SantimawContracting@gmail. com. The company services every town and city in the Community Advocate coverage area. Business Profiles are advertising features designed to provide information and background about Community Advocate advertisers.

The Santimaw brothers have provided high-quality work for the last 10 years. (Photo/ Courtesy)

LEGAL NOTICES

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

SHREWSBURY

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY

ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

PUBLIC HEARINGS

RICHARD D. CARNEY MUNICIPAL OFFICE BUILDING

100 MAPLE AVENUE

SHREWSBURY, MA

June 24, 2024 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Richard Ricker of 11 Maple Ave, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, for two Variances to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Sections VII.L and VI. Table I to use a nonconforming common driveway for commercial and business use and a horizontal mixed use building partially in a residential zone and three Special Permits to the Shrewsbury Zoning bylaw Sections IV.B, VI Table I and VI Table I to alter a nonconforming lot and use, the operation of a garage and repair shop and the sale of automobiles upon property located at 334 Grafton Street in the Commercial Business zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 34 Plot 029000.

June 24, 2024 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of John Cayer 350 Main Street, Rutland, Massachusetts 01543 for two Special Permits to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VI - Table I to continue operating an automotive repair and sale business upon property located at 431-433 Boston Turnpike in the Commercial Business zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 33 Plot 171000.

June 24, 2024 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Jason St. Pierre 21 Grafton Street, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts 01545, for a Special Permit to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VI-Table I to convert a single family dwelling with an in-law unit to a two family dwelling upon property located at 34 Elma Circle in the Residence B-1 zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 21 Plot 206000.

June 24, 2024 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Guaranteed Builders & Dev. Inc., 14 West Street, Douglas, MA 01516, for a Variance to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section II and a Special Permit to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII-Table II to construct a detached garage for an in-law apartment upon property located at 178 Oak Street in the Residence B-1 zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 33 Plot 069000.

June 24, 2024 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Marisol Avellaneda Barry of 108 Prospect Street, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, for a Special Permit to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VITable I to operate a professional office or customary home occupation upon property located at 108 Prospect Street in the Residence B-1 zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 16 Plot 130000.

June 24, 2024 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Steve Lussier of 164 Wayside Inn Road, Marlboro, MA 01752, for a Special Permit to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section IV.B(1) to demolish a preexisting non-conforming dwelling and rebuild a single family dwelling that does not increase the nonconformity upon property located at 201 N. Quinsigamond Ave in the Rural B zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 25 Plot 011000.

June 24, 2024 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Kevin Nisbet of 11 Judick Street, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, for a Special Permit to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section IV.B(1), to construct an

addition two and eight tenths feet (2.8’) from the side yard where ten feet (10’) is required upon property located at 11 Judick Street in the Residence B-1 zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 11 Plot 256000.

Peter C. Mulcahy, Clerk

NORTHBOROUGH

NOTICE OF FILING, REQUEST FOR COMMENTS, AND PUBLIC HEARING

D.P.U. 24-59

Petition of the Town of Northborough for approval by the Department of Public Utilities of a municipal aggregation plan pursuant to G.L. c. 164, § 134.

On April 23, 2024, the Town of Northborough (“Town”) filed a request with the Department of Public Utilities (“Department”) for approval of a municipal aggregation plan pursuant to G.L. c. 164, § 134. General Laws c. 164, § 134 authorizes a municipality to procure electric supply on behalf of consumers within its municipal borders through a municipal aggregation program (“Program”). Eligible electricity consumers not already enrolled with a competitive electric supplier would be automatically enrolled in the Program unless they chose to opt-out, in which case they would continue to receive basic service provided by their electric distribution company, Massachusetts Electric Company d/b/a National Grid. The Department docketed this petition as D.P.U. 24-59.

The Town has retained MassPowerChoice, LLC to serve as its consultant in this proceeding and to assist in the implementation of the Program. The Town seeks a waiver on its own behalf and on behalf of the competitive electric supplier(s) chosen for the Program, of certain information disclosure requirements contained in G.L. c. 164, § 1F(6) and 220 CMR 11.06(4)(c).

The Department will conduct a virtual public hearing to receive comments on the Town’s filing. The Department will conduct the hearing using Zoom videoconferencing on June 25, 2024, beginning at 2:00 p.m. Attendees can join by entering the link, https://us06web.zoom. us/j/86325957987, from a computer, smartphone, or tablet. No prior software download is required. For audio-only access to the hearings, attendees can dial in at (305) 224-1968 (not toll free) and then enter the Meeting ID# 863 2595 7987

If you anticipate providing comments via Zoom during the public hearing, to the extent possible, please send an email by the close of business (5:00 p.m.) on Monday, June 24, 2024, to timothy.m.federico@ mass.gov with your name, email address, and mailing address.

Alternatively, any person who desires to comment on this matter may submit written comments to the Department via email no later than the close of business (5:00 p.m.) on Monday, June 24, 2024

To the extent a person wishes to submit comments in accordance with this Notice, electronic submission, as detailed below, is sufficient.

All written comments or other documents should be submitted to the Department in PDF format by e-mail attachment to dpu.efiling@mass.gov and timothy.m.federico@mass.gov. In addition, all written comments should be emailed to counsel for the Town, Paul Gromer, Esq., at pgromer@gromerllc.com.

The text of the e-mail must specify: (1) the docket number of the proceeding (D.P.U. 24-59); (2) the name of the person or company submitting the filing; and (3) a brief descriptive title of the document. All documents submitted in electronic format will be posted on the Department’s website as soon as practicable at http://www.mass. gov/dpu. The e-mail must also include the name, title, and telephone number of a person to contact in the event of ques-

tions about the filing. Importantly, all large files must be broken down into electronic files that do not exceed 20MB.

At this time, all filings will be submitted only in electronic format in recognition of the difficulty that parties and the Department may have filing and receiving original copies. Ordinarily, parties would follow Sections B.1 and B.4 of the Department’s Standard Ground Rules regarding the filing of original paper versions (D.P.U. 15184-A, App. 1 (March 4, 2020)). However, until further notice, parties must retain the original paper version and the Department will later determine when the paper version must be filed with the Department Secretary.

The Town’s filing and all related documents submitted to or issued by the Department will be available at the Department’s website as soon as is practicable at https://eeaonline.eea.state.ma.us/DPU/ Fileroom/dockets/bynumber (enter “2459”). A paper copy of the filing will not be available for public viewing at the Department due to certain ongoing safety measures and precautions related to in-person events as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. To request materials in accessible formats (Braille, large print, electronic files, audio format) for people with disabilities, contact the Department’s ADA coordinator at gabriella.knight@mass.gov.

Any person desiring further information regarding the Town’s filing or a paper copy of the filing should contact Paul Gromer, Esq., at pgromer@gromerllc.com or (617) 227-7024. For further information regarding this Notice, please contact Timothy Federico, Hearing Officer, Department of Public Utilities, at timothy.m.federico@ mass.gov

HUDSON

LEGAL PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

The Hudson Conservation Commission will hold a Public Hearing relative to the following filing under the Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. Chapter 131, Section 40) as requested by Danielle and Dillon LaForce. The owners of the property are Danielle and Dillon LaForce. The work is located at 193 Parmenter Road (Map-Parcel 59-30). The proposed project is amendment to an Order of Conditions to include a pool, patio, and grading. The Public Hearing will be held via remote video conference on June 20, 2024 at 7:00 pm. Please contact the Conservation Commission Office for information on joining the meeting: phelinek@ townofhudson.org or 978-562-2948.

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

LEGAL PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

The Hudson Conservation Commission will hold a Public Hearing relative to the following filing under the Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. Chapter 131, Section 40) as requested by Gabrielle D’Errico. The owner of the property is Gabrielle D’Errico. The work is located at 45 Fort Meadow Drive (Map-Parcel 66-65). The proposed project is replacement of a shed within 25 feet of Fort Meadow Reservoir. The Public Hearing will be held via remote video conference on June 20, 2024 at 7:00 pm. Please contact the Conservation Commission Office for information on joining the meeting: phelinek@townofhudson.org or 978-562-2948.

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

LEGAL PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

The Hudson Conservation Commission will hold a Public Hearing relative to the following filing under the Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. Chapter 131, Section 40) as requested by Kathleen Adams. The owners of the property are Kathleen and John Adams. The work is located at 81

Hunter Avenue (Map-Parcel 25-12). The proposed project is removal of 7 mature trees in Buffer Zone to Lake Boon. The Public Hearing will be held via remote video conference on June 20, 2024 at 7:00 pm. Please contact the Conservation Commission Office for information on joining the meeting: phelinek@townofhudson.org or 978-562-2948.

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

LEGAL PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

The Hudson Conservation Commission will hold a Public Hearing relative to the following filing under the Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. Chapter 131, Section 40) as requested by Ron Aspero. The owner of the property is Paul Carney. The work is located at 316 Brigham Street (Map-Parcel-Lot 72-15-7). The proposed project is construction of a house in Buffer Zone to Bordering Vegetated Wetlands. The Public Hearing will be held via remote video conference on June 20, 2024 at 7:00 pm. Please contact the Conservation Commission Office for information on joining the meeting: phelinek@townofhudson.org or 978-562-2948.

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

LEGAL PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

The Hudson Conservation Commission will hold a Public Hearing relative to the following filing under the Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. Chapter 131, Section 40) as requested by Ellen King. The owner of the property is Ellen King. The work is located at 55 Fort Meadow Drive (MapParcel 66-60). The proposed project is a dock, patio, and landscaping in Buffer Zone to Fort Meadow Reservoir. The Public Hearing will be held via remote video conference on June 20, 2024 at 7:00 pm. Please contact the Conservation Commission Office for information on joining the meeting: phelinek@townofhudson.org or 978-562-2948.

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

MARLBOROUGH

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 20, 2024, at 7:00 PM at Marlborough City Hall, 140 Main St. on the 3rd Floor Memorial Hall.

Raytheon Technologies proposes the removal and replacement of an existing above ground emergency power generator in the same location, including the construction of a level concrete mounting pad and a short underground electric conduit that feeds from existing ducts.

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

WORCESTER

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.

2012 Nissan Frontier VIN #1N6AD0EB0CC424999

2010 Subaru Legacy VIN #4S3BMBA61A3235020

1999 Ford F-150 VIN #1FTZX1726XNA66498

2011 BMW 5 Series VIN #WBAFU7C58BC779404

2013 Ford Focus VIN #1FADP3F28DL274614

2002 Ford Focus SVT VIN #3FAHP39562R233985

2004 Toyota Camry VIN #4T1BE32K34U265161

2014 Honda Civic VIN #2HGFB6E5XEH703363

2004 Chevy Silverado VIN #2GCEK19T831279890

SOUTHBOROUGH

Notice is hereby given by Ted’s of Fayville, 300 Turnpike Road., Southborough, MA 01772, pursuant to the provisions of G.L. c. 255, section 39A, that on Wednesday July 10, 2024 at 10 am an auction sale on the web based site of http:// sta.ibidsmart.com the following motor vehicles will be sold to satisfy our garage keeper’s lien thereon for storage, towing charges, care and expenses of notices and sale of said vehicles. Starting July 1, 2024 at 9 am, vehicles can be viewed at http:// sta.ibidsmart.com.

This is not an absolute auction we reserve the right to set a minimum on all auction vehicles. If a particular vehicle is not listed on http://sta.ibidsmart.com call 508-4850503 for bidding instructions.

2008 BMW 328i VIN: WBAVA33588FV66683

Owned by Robert Noonan

2009 Volkswagon Jetta VIN: 3VWRZ71K19M019461

Owned by Fredrick A Bodenrader

2013 Toyota Rav4 VIN: JTMRFREV9DD024293

Owned by Alexander John Richards

2004 Subaru Forester VIN: JF1SG65624H763381

Owned by Joshuea Gattereau

2007 Nissan Sentra Vin: 3N1AB61E67L711133

Owned by ATL Express Auto

2001 Subaru Forester VIN: JF1SF63501H748273

Owned by Sheila Baker Doolin Codie James M Hendee

2016 Honda HR-V VIN: 3CZRU6H54GM750405

Owned by Dana M Torres

2012 Jeep Wrangler VIN: 1C4BJWDG9CL157528

Owned by Mark A Wolters

2018 Toyota Corolla VIN: 2T1BURHE9JC973595

Owned by Jacek J Mogielnicki

2002 Nissan Altima VIN: 1N4AL11DX2C122584

Owned by Peter Wojtyna Jr

2003 Chevrolet Express VIN: 1GCFG15X431186500

Owned by Nyakonga J Umumbu

David D Akasa

This notice has been given under the provisions of G.L. c. 255, Section 39A.

Publication Friday June 14, 21 and 28, 2024 Community Advocate.

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

By Michael Perna Jr. History Columnist

SHREWSBURY - From the time the first trolley passed through Shrewsbury Center in the early 1900s, the trolley line was a primary means of transportation to and from Worcester and beyond.

An undated newspaper article describes when the trolley trips started―people were lighting off fireworks, one older gentleman was waving his arms and “hollering,” and another tried to give a “war whoop” but his voice gave out!

A small group of ladies were invited to ride on the trip.

The photograph, taken in 1928, shows a large number of people boarding the trolley in the center of Shrewsbury, right at the intersection of Main and

Grafton Streets. It is interesting to note the way the passengers were dressed ― the ladies in dresses, the men in suits, some wearing straw hats, others with fedoras ― for a day of shopping, dining or work in Worcester.

The men in the foreground, according to the note on the photo’s reverse side, are installing a natural gas pipeline.

The two buildings in the rear of the view are still there ― the one on the left houses the Shrewsbury Country Shoppe, the one to the right is a hair salon with apartments on the upper floors. With the opening of Route 9 in 1930 and more families owning automobiles, the trolleys quickly faded away, going the way of the horse and buggy.

A trolley stopped for passengers to board in Shrewsbury Center in 1928.

COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

Algonquin seniors visit their elementary school stomping grounds

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH/SOUTHBOROUGH – Before Algonquin Regional High School seniors graduated, they returned to their elementary schools on May 31.

Donned in their caps and gowns, the seniors walked through the halls of their former stomping grounds, hugging their old teachers and waving as the elementary students cheered them on.

ARHS Principal Sean Bevan said he was aware that other schools in the region hold senior strolls. He reached out to other principals to learn more about senior strolls and various best practices to have them be successful.

“It’s been great. We’ve been able to see our teenagers have a really memorable and emotional and celebratory moment with their old teachers and their old

buildings. It’s been a real success,” said Bevan.

The seniors had the opportunity to visit their old schools, including Proctor, Peaslee, Zeh, Lincoln Street, Neary and Finn.

Luke Mansour and Owen Provencal were among the seniors who visited Finn. Mansour said the trip was “very nostalgic.”

“I’m glad to be back because it’s something I’ve wanted to do for a while,” he said.

“It’s kind of surreal. Everything is a lot smaller, now,” added Provencal.

Proctor Principal Stacy Mahoney said it was sweet to see the high school students interact with the elementary students.

“Just the way [you see] the littles with their eyes and just looking at them in admiration. But also, in several years, they’re going to see their future, which is really nice as well,” she said.

One of the seniors visiting

Proctor was Jon Loizeaux, who has three younger siblings.

“I’ve been around Proctor for a long time, but to come back and to see all of my old teachers and the place I used to hang out with my friends or go into the library or go to the classroom – it’s just bringing back a lot of memories,” he said.

For the elementary students, Bevan said the stroll is a fun opportunity for them to learn what it will be like when they become high school seniors. For the seniors, it’s a chance for them to reflect on the strength of their educational journey in Northborough and Southborough.

“It’s really gratifying because whenever you do something for the first time, it’s hard to know if it’s going to work. It worked really well, and they’re just so many smiles. It’s one of the kind of events that is a winning event for everybody,” said Bevan.

Algonquin graduates walked through Proctor Elementary School on May 31. (Photos/Laura Hayes)

Graduates high-five Proctor students.

A high school ‘Project’ worth celebrating

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – Westbor-

ough High’s Class of 2024 had a wild time after graduation.

After the ceremonies on June 1, the brand-new alums headed to Teamworks in Northborough for the annual Project Graduation all-night celebration.

There, they played, ate, danced and reminisced — all within a fun, safe and alcoholfree environment.

“It’s so nice to have it for our younger kids,” said Mary McDermott, the co-chair of Project Graduation along with Lillian Rich.

Both have children who are members of the Class of 2024.

“It gives our kids something nice, somewhere safe,” said Rich.

On the morning of graduation day, dozens of volunteers assembled at Teamworks. Over the span of a few hours, they converted the entrance, dining area and downstairs into a colorful jungle — complete with a treehouse, cardboard jeep and

Alex Toso works on a waterfall, one of the jungle-themed decorations for Project Graduation’s all-night celebration

(Photo/Maureen Sullivan

plenty of (paper) animals.

Karen Henderson, president of Project Graduation, credited Alex Toso for coming up and creating the annual themes.

“She’s done this more years than I can recall,” said Henderson.

Toso’s creative process began in February, said Henderson.

“She starts creating. She has big ideas,” she said.

Over the years, Toso has learned to reuse, recycle, repurpose and re-invent. According to Henderson, Toso will often find potential items on the curbside, or via sites such as Buy Nothing Westborough.

“We repurpose as much as we can,” said Henderson.

She also credited the Colangelo family for providing storage/work space, and Mark’s Towing for the vehicles needed to bring the decorations to Teamworks.

Once the decorations are in place, Project Graduation volunteers begin the next phase — providing the food (most of it donated), games, activities and chaperones for the event.

“They [the students] are so grateful,” said Henderson.

Some alums have returned to volunteer for Project Graduation.

“My mom’s in charge, but it’s always fun,” said Miles Henderson, a 2019 graduate of Westborough High.

He recalled his Project Grad-

uation event had a nautical theme, and not getting any sleep. “We just kept going,” he said.

“My favorite was the hypnotist,” said Brendan McDermott, a Class of 2022 graduate.

Project Graduation also sponsors “Memory Lane,” where students create post-

ers of themselves in various phases of childhood. The posters are hung around the high school track a couple of days before graduation.

Project Graduation has been around since 1991. For more information, visit www. projectgraduationwestborough.org.

Police charge man with drug trafficking

SHREWSBURY – A Worcester resident is facing several charges, including drug trafficking, following a security check at a storage facility.

According to police reports, on Tuesday, June 4, around 2:17 a.m., a Shrewsbury officer was performing a security check of CubeSmart Self Storage, 757 Boston Turnpike. The officer observed a vehicle in front of an open storage unit, and a man was inside it. The officer reported that the license plate on the vehicle appeared to be altered, and the officer began speaking to the man.

Police said the man had provided the officer with a fake name, had four warrants for his arrest, could not provide the owner of the vehicle’s name, and the vehicle’s license plate and inspection sticker had both been altered.

The suspect was identified

as Alexander Quinonez, 41, of Worcester.

Officers located two scales and a large amount of drugs inside the vehicle, including 27 grams of cocaine; more than 18 grams of crack cocaine; more than 9 grams of fentanyl; and 27 unidentified pills that will be tested in a laboratory. Additionally, officers seized $2,158 from Quinonez.

Shrewsbury Police have charged a Worcester man with trafficking cocaine and crack cocaine.

(Photo/ Courtesy Shrewsbury Police Department)

He was arrested on four outstanding warrants and was charged with trafficking a Class B substance (cocaine), trafficking a Class B substance (crack cocaine), possession of a Class A substance with the intent to distribute, possession of a Class E substance with the intent to distribute, providing a false ID to police following arrest and uttering a false RMV document.

By Ron Ayotte Contributing Writer

MARLBOROUGH – According to the State Fire Marshal’s office, the cause of the fatal fire on May 22 at 66 Nolan Way may be the careless disposal of smoking materials.

The Public Information Officer of the Office of the State Fire Marshal Jake Wark stated that “due to the amount of fire damage to the structure caused by the fire, the official cause may never be determined. The Office of the State Fire Marshal and the Marlborough Fire Department’s Fire Investigations Unit are leaning towards the careless disposal of smoking materials as the probable cause of the fire.”

Because there was a fatality

involved, the Office of the Medial Examiner was involved in the investigation.

When asked if there was any update on the Medical Examiner’s findings, Wark stated that “it takes at least 90 days for autopsy reports to be released.”

The Marlborough Fire Department and the Office of the State Fire Marshal want to remind everyone that the careless disposal of smoking materials is the leading cause of fatal fires in the Commonwealth.

“If someone in your house is a smoker, remind them to use deep ashtrays and make sure their cigarettes, cigars and other smoking materials be disposed of properly,” said Wark.

Hudson Police arrest Natick man for trafficking cocaine

HUDSON – A Natick man was taken into custody by the Hudson Police Department after officers said they found cocaine in the man’s vehicle.

According to the department, on Wednesday, May 29, at approximately 4:45 p.m., officers were dispatched near Pope Street to be on the lookout for a vehicle driving erratically.

Officers Cam O’Toole and Jason Hatstat responded and saw the vehicle driving onto Main Street. They observed violations and pulled the vehicle over, the department said.

During the traffic stop, officers said they saw drug paraphernalia inside the vehicle and had the driver — Oliver Aylward, 28, of Natick — step out of the vehicle. They further

Hudson Police seized $2,300 in cash, fentanyl and cocaine following a vehicle stop on Wednesday, May 29.

(Photo/Courtesy of the Hudson Police Department)

searched Aylward and his vehicle, and officers discovered items to use drugs, a scale, $2,300 in cash, more than two grams of fentanyl and 24 grams of cocaine.

Officers James Downing and Brennan Grimley assisted in the investigation.

Aylward was placed under arrest and transported to police headquarters to be booked, fingerprinted, and photographed.

Aylward was arraigned in Marlborough District Court on charges of trafficking cocaine, possession of a Class A substance and motor vehicle equipment violations.

“I’m proud of the work our officers do each and every day to keep our community safe,” said Chief Richard DiPersio.

Marlborough firefighters battle two-alarm house fire

By Ron Ayotte Contributing Writer

MARLBOROUGH – The Marlborough Fire Department battled the second two-alarm fire in two weeks in the early morning hours of June 5.

The public safety dispatch center received a 911 call at 4:53 a.m. reporting a structure fire at 50 River St. Engine 1, Engine 2, Engine 3, Rescue 1, Truck 1 and Car 5 responded.

The residents of the home were outside when the Marlborough Fire Department arrived.

The first arriving unit, Engine 1, found heavy fire coming from the first floor of the home, extending to the second floor and attic area. A second alarm for the fire was quickly transmitted, bringing mutual aid to the scene from the Hudson, Southborough, Sudbury and Northborough fire departments.

The Westborough and Framingham fire departments provided coverage at Marlborough’s fire stations.

Assistant Chief of Opera -

The information in the police log is obtained directly from the official records maintained at each police station in our circulation area.Those arrested are innocent until proven guilty. The Community Advocate will publish news of acquittals upon notification and a copy of court issued documentation. The below is a representation of this week’s police log. Some calls lacking severity have been omitted due to space constraints.

Westborough

Monday, May 27

9:23 a.m. Arrested, Mario R. Barrios De Leon, 38, of 293 Turnpike Rd., Apt. 1, Westborough, on default warrant. Tuesday, May 28

9:16 a.m. W Main St. Larceny. Wednesday, May 29

7:52 a.m. Arrested, Philip A. Cerez, 27, of 66 Edison Dr., Ludlow, on straight warrant.

2:52 p.m. W Main St. Fraud. Thursday, May 30

12:31 a.m. Arrested, Alejandro Gomez, 51, of 5 Winthrop St., Apt. 2, Worcester, for op MV with license suspended.

Saturday, June 1

11:19 a.m. W Main St. Fraud.

6:03 p.m. Arrested, Kermis Rafael Garcia, 29, of 14 Congress St., Apt. 5, Fitchburg, for op MV with license suspended.

Shrewsbury

Thursday, May 30

12:17 p.m. Walnut St. Vandalism.

1:36 p.m. Bumblebee Cir. Identity theft.

tions Jeff Gogan said the residents were alerted to the fire by their smoke alarms and the family dog.

“The first due firefighters made an aggressive interior attack. We had an extra firefighter assigned to Truck 1 on that duty tour, and that extra firefighter made all the difference when opening up the roof in multiple spots. They literally saved the building,” said Gogan.

The American Red Cross was contacted to assist the residents.

The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Marlborough Fire Department’s fire investigation unit. An initial damage estimate was approximately $300,000.

Worcester, for poss Class E w/ intent to distribute, trafficking in Class B substance, poss Class A w/intent to distribute, forge/misuse RMV document, utter false writing, false ID following arrest, warrants.

2:21 p.m. King Arthur Rd. Identity theft.

8:47 p.m. Arrested, Rodney A. Moore, 61, of 25 Bullard Ave., Worcester, for fail to stop for police, attach plate not assigned, uninsured MV/trailer, unregistered vehicle, marked lanes violation, miscellaneous MV equipment violation, operate MV with license revoked as HTO (criminal), warrant.

Northborough

Tuesday, June 4

10:20 a.m. Whitney St. Fraud.

Wednesday, June 5

4:58 p.m. Arrested, Stanley R. Hernandez, 23, of 1 Hemans St., Apt. 2, Worcester, on warrant.

7:45 p.m. Shops Way. Larceny.

9:41 a.m. Arrested, Santos Barahona, 42, of 30 Southwest Cutoff St., Northborough, for indecent A&B on person 14 or over.

3:43 p.m. North Quinsigamond. Larceny.

6:03 p.m. Arrested, Lauren J. Kennedy, 39, of 23 Conger Rd., Worcester, for possession of Class A substance, possession Class E substance, and Brendan J. Welsh, 44, 1331 Main St., Worcester, for possession Class A substance, possession Class B substance, unlicensed operation of MV.

Friday, May 31

2:19 a.m. Main St. Illegal dumping.

7:34 a.m. Memorial Dr. Larceny attempt.

8:27 a.m. Forest Ave. Larceny by check.

Saturday, June 1

3:00 p.m. Boston Tpke. Robbery.

Monday, June 3

4:31 p.m. Arrested, Roland D, Hughes, 66, of 54 Lindenwood Rd., Stoneham, for neg operation of MV (operate to endanger), OUI liquor 2nd offense.

Tuesday, May 4

2:17 a.m. Arrested, Alexander Alexis Quinonez, 41, of 27 Country Club Blvd., Apt. 124,

Perreira Lima, 28, of 447 Boston Post Road East, Apt. 61, Marlborough, for assault w/ dangerous weapon, A&B.

Grafton

Sunday, May 26

11:45 a.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/identity theft.

Wednesday, May 29

5:43 p.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/identity theft.

Thursday, May 30

10:20 a.m. Arrested, Cameron Lee Petruzzelli, 21, of 56 Upton St., Grafton, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, leave scene of property damage, marked lanes violation, possess open container of alcohol in MV, uninsured motor vehicle, unregistered motor vehicle.

Friday, May 31

11:36 a.m. Crescent St. Larceny/ theft.

1:47 p.m. Elliot Trl. Fraud/ identity theft.

3:13 p.m. Providence Rd. Larceny/theft.

4:37 p.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/identity theft.

9:42 p.m. Arrested, Adonias Misael Sanchez Hernandez, 32, of 133 Elm St., Marlborough, for op MV with license suspended,

Marlborough

Wednesday, May 29

1:25 p.m. Fowler St. Fraud/ forgery.

Thursday, May 30

1:19 p.m. Halstead Apartments/ Ames St. Vandalism.

Friday, May 31

7:54 p.m. Devens St. Fraud/ forgery.

9:05 p.m. Chandler St. Fraud/ forgery.

Saturday, June 1

5:41 p.m. Home Depot/BPRE. Burglary/B&E past.

Sunday, June 2

12:58 a.m. Arrested, Marcos Antonio Gomes, 53, of 200 Maple St., Apt. 5, Marlborough, for OUI-liquor or .08%, leave scene of property damage, marked lanes violation.

5:30 p.m. Starbucks/South Bolton St. Vandalism.

8:52 p.m. Arrested, Alexandra

8:04 p.m. Arrested, Keith Nason, 54, of 76 Creeper Hill Rd., Grafton, for trespass/ walk/ride on railroad property, resist arrest.

Southborough

Tuesday, May 21

1:18 p.m. Woodbury Rd. Larceny. Friday, May 24

6:52 p.m. Crystal Pond Rd. Illegal dumping.

Sunday, May 26

12:12 p.m. Deerfoot Rd. Larceny.

Monday, May 27

1:28 a.m. Arrested, Adeilson Alves Miguel, of Silver St., Marlborough, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, fail to wear seat belt, speeding/rate of speed exceeding posted limit, warrant.

1:08 p.m. Skylar Dr. Larceny. Saturday, June 1

7:29 p.m. Arrested, Jose E. Ferreira, of Church St., Clinton, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, speeding/rate of speed exceeding posted limit.

Firefighters battled a fire on River Street. (Photo/Ron Ayotte)

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

Ames, William formerly of Westborough Angell, Olga of North Grafton Brooks, Sheila of Northborough Clemons, Arthur formerly of Shrewsbury Geary, Joseph formerly of Shrewsbury

Anthony S. Trio, 95

MARLBOROUGH - Anthony (Tony) Steven Trio, (Hudson/ Marlborough) born May 19, 1929, died on May 21, 2024, at the age of 95 at home with his family by his side. Raised in Arlington and Barre, MA the youngest of four, his family lived in the “Italian section” in Barre.

In 1986, Tony married Carol (Koundakjian) and together they raised two daughters Michele and Nicole of Marlborough.

Tony will be interned at the Massachusetts National Veterans Cemetery in Bourne, MA.

Sheila M. Brooks, 58

NORTHBOROUGH - In the early hours of Tuesday, June 4, 2024, Sheila M. Brooks, 58, peacefully transitioned from this life after a valiant battle against cancer. At the time of her passing, Sheila was supported by the love of her family.

Sheila is survived by her husband of 32 years, Andrew Brooks, and their two sons, Cameron Brooks and his fiancée Jennifer DeMille and Cole Brooks, all who reside in Northborough. Sheila also leaves her two brothers, Thomas Connolly and his wife Laurie of Wilmington and James Connolly of Woburn. A sister, Mary Cabral, passed away in 2016. Hays Funeral Home of

Goodwin, Harold of Shrewsbury

Hall, Linda of Southborough

Janda, Dorothy of the Branches of Marlborough Kittredge, Sandra of Marlborough Lopez, Maria of Hudson Peterson, Henry of Grafton Robichaud, Irma formerly of Southborough Secchiaroli, Elaine of Marlborough Shepherd, John of Westborough Trio, Anthony of Marlborough Ware, Patricia of Exeter, ME Yun, Benny formerly of Westborough

Northborough assisted with arrangements.

Patricia P. Ware, 84

EXETER, ME - Patricia Perry Ware, 84, went to be with the lord on May 29th,2024. She passed away peacefully surrounded by her family after battling a long illness.

Patricia is predeceased by her parents, Frank and Irene (Cornelius) Perry. She is survived by her soulmate, David Waters as well as her children, Janice Ayres and husband PJ from Westborough, Massachusetts, Robert Ware and wife Julia from West Roxbury, Massachusetts, John Ware from Dunnellon, Florida, and Donna Vancott and husband Kevin from Worcester, Massachusetts. She is also survived by her precious grandchildren, Jessica, Jennifer, Tom, Cassandra, Samantha, Caitlyn, Melissa, Marina, Carissa, Launa and Chris, and many great grandchildren.

Crosby & Neal Funeral Home of Exeter, ME assisted with arrangements.

Dorothy Janda, 99

ton, MA, she was the daughter of the late Harold and Bertha (Ennis) Janda.

Dot is survived by her close family members, Heidi Gilman, Caitlin Gilman, Abaigeal Gilman, Jacob Brescia, and her cousin Francis Ryan who visited her weekly. She leaves behind close friends Dottie and Bob Horrigan. She was predeceased by her brother, Paul Janda and godchild, Joan Scheid.

Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Norton Funeral Home, Framingham.

Benny Yun, 69

MEDFIELD - Benny Yun, age 69, passed away on Tuesday, May 28th, 2024, at his home in Medfield, Massachusetts, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Seoul, South Korea on July 31, 1954, he was the son of Kyesik and Chongyol Park.

Beloved husband of Youngok Yun. Loving father of Minki Yun of Medway and Brian Yun, and his wife Sooyong Lee, of Medfield. Cherished grandfather of Jayden Yun and Evelyn Yun. Brother of Byong Chung Yun, Hunja Yun, Hunsoon Yun, Jinee Yun, and Hyunsook Yun.

Arrangements by James H. Delaney & Son Funeral Home, Walpole.

Maria Lopez, 101

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

Victor F. Lopez, who passed in 2023.

Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted with arrangements.

Harold J. Goodwin, 86

Irma Robichaud, 103

MARLBOROUGH - Dorothy “Dot” Janda, age 99, formerly of Framingham, died, Monday, May 27, 2024 at her residence, the Branches of Marlborough. Born in Clin-

HUDSON - Maria (Santiago) Lopez, 101, of Hudson, MA, passed peacefully on Thursday, May 30, 2024, with her loving daughter, Iris, by her side. Maria is survived by her daughters Iris N. Lucy and her husband Fred P. Lucy II of Hudson, MA, Carmen M. Kelly and her husband Kevin of Washington State; her son Luis A. Lopez of Clinton, MA; her grandchildren Daniel Lopez and his wife Tina of Franklin, MA, Lynn Micciche and her husband Brendan of Hudson, MA, Fred P. Lucy III of NH, and John H.D. Lucy and his wife Danielle of Charlton, MA; her great-grandchildren Parker, Sabastian, Soren Lucy, Victoria and Alexandria Lopez, and Aidan and MacKenzie Micciche. She was predeceased by her husband Victor M. Lopez, who passed in 1993, and her son

SHREWSBURY - Harold J. “Hal” Goodwin, 86, of Shrewsbury, died Friday, May 31, 2024 at Blackstone Valley Health and Rehab, Whitinsville after a brief illness.

He leaves his wife of 27 years, Carol A. (Caron) Grasseschi Goodwin of Shrewsbury; his children, Donna Carlson of St. Petersburg, FL, Cynthia Panarello of Ormond Beach, FL, Deborah Goodwin of Southbridge, MA, Timothy Goodwin and his wife Barbara Evans of Ormond Beach, FL, and Pamela Swenor and her husband Todd of Winter Haven, FL; his stepchildren, Tammy Albaladejo and her husband Edwin of Worcester, and Anthony Grasseschi and his wife Fatima of Worcester; his grandchildren, Jeremiah Donovan and his wife Cathy of York, SC, Kevin Goodwin of Kissimmee, FL, Brad Goodwin of Westboro, MA, Austin Goodwin of Farmingdale, ME, Heather Goodwin and family of Winter Haven FL, Brandyn Swenor of Winter Haven, FL, and Gabriella Albaladejo of Worcester; his grandson-in-law, Billy Coleman of Pinellas Park, FL; his great-grandchildren, Troy Akins of Pinellas Park, FL, Cora Donovan of York, SC, Cyrus Goodwin of Farmingdale, ME and his sister-in-law, Sandra Goodwin of Shrewsbury. He also is survived by three nephews, Michael Goodwin, Kenneth Goodwin, Christopher Goodwin and a niece, Michelle Goodwin. He was predeceased by a granddaughter, Caroline (Rizzo) Coleman and a brother, James W. Goodwin. He was born in Boston, son of Harold J. and Mary E. (Dillon) Goodwin. Arrangements are in the care of Rice Funeral Home of Worcester.

SOUTHBOROUGH - Irma (Bastarache) Robichaud, 103, formerly of Southborough passed away Friday, May 31st. She was the beloved wife of Gerard Robichaud who passed away in 1993. Irma is survived by two children, Denis “Bob” Robichaud (Janet) of North Attleboro and Dianne Gardner of Bellingham. She leaves four grandchildren, Lisa Gardner of Whitinsville, Kristina Gardner of Milford, Derek Robichaud of Londonderry, NH and Julia Robichaud of Chicago, IL. She was predeceased by her grandson Justin Gardner. Irma also leaves 5 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday June 15th at 12:15 PM in St. Matthew Parish, 26 Highland Ave. Southborough, MA with burial to follow in Wildwood Cemetery in Ashland. Visiting hours will be held Saturday from 10:00-11:30 AM in the Matarese Funeral Home, 325 Main St. Ashland, MA.

Joseph A. Geary, 38

JACKSONVILLE , FL - Joseph Anthony Geary, passed away on May 26, 2024, in Jacksonville Florida, after a long and courageous battle with advanced testicular cancer. Born on Sept. 17, 1988, in Worcester MA, he was a cherished son, loving husband, supportive brother and friend to many.

He leaves behind to mourn his loss and celebrate his memory, his husband Rohan Sayroo and his beloved dog Boston of Jacksonville FL, his parents, Carol and David Geary of Saratoga Springs NY, his brothers, Adam Geary of Northborough MA, Timothy Geary of Mountain View CA and Benjamin Geary of Saratoga Springs and the numerous friends he made in Massachusetts and Florida. Joseph was predeceased by his maternal grandparents Anne and Armando Nozzolillo and infant brother Christopher Geary. Chiampa Funeral Home of Shrewsbury assisted with arrangements.

COMMUNITY SPORTS

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – There’s no quit in these Pioneers.

Despite being one strike from elimination, the second-seeded Saint John’s Pioneers defeated the No. 7 St. John’s Prep Eagles, 7-6, in the quarterfinals on June 7, sending the team to the MIAA

Division 1 semifinals for the second consecutive year.

Conor Secrist’s ninth-inning, up-the-middle single won the game for the Pioneers. After the walk-off win, Saint John’s players sprinted to the outfield to celebrate. The win over St. John’s Prep marked the Pioneers’ second straight walk-off win.

“Our guys — there’s no quit in them. … The resilience of this team is impressive,” Saint John’s Head Coach Casey Cummins told reporters after the game. With the teams tied at 4-4 entering the seventh inning, St. John’s Prep’s Nic Lembo belted a two-run homer over the leftfield fence to put the Eagles ahead 6-4. The Pioneers were down to their final strike, but

Jack Forgues’ two-run double knotted the game again.

“He is a tough out. He’s probably one of the best hitters in Massachusetts. That kid is a competitor in everything he does — his jersey is covered in dirt. He’s everything you ask for in a player both on and off the field. … He has carried us offensively for almost the entire year. I can’t say enough great things about Jack

Forgues,” said Cummins. Two innings later, Secrist’s single iced the game.

The Pioneers will face No. 3 Xaverian Brothers in the semifinal game, which will be played in Lynn on June 11 after the Community Advocate goes to print. For updates, please visit communityadvocate.com.

“Hopefully we can finish the job,” Cummins said.

The Saint John's Pioneers moved on to the MIAA Division 1 semifinals. (Photo/Evan Walsh)

Noah Basgaard handles the low throw to beat the St. John’s Prep runner. (Photo/Evan Walsh)

Westborough tennis programs find playoff success

By Evan Walsh Reporter

WESTBOROUGH – Westborough’s tennis dominance continues.

In the span of one week, both of Westborough’s tennis programs have registered several playoff victories. The boys, who played on June 6 and June 10, have reached the MIAA Division 2 state championship game, which will be played Saturday, June 15.

The girls, who last played June 5, have advanced to the Division 2 semifinals, and are set to play No. 2 Longmeadow on June 11, after the Community Advocate goes to print.

Boys reach championship game

After their June 6 quarterfinal win against No. 8 Mansfield, the top-seeded Rangers advanced to the semifinals to face the No. 4 Wayland Warriors on June 10. Westborough ultimately won the match, 4-1, to advance to the program’s fourth consecutive championship game.

The usual suspects dominated early for the Rangers.

Kaden Chen, Westborough’s No. 1 singles player and backto-back Mid-Wach-A MVP, was first off the court, extending his unbeaten streak for the season.

Srinjoy Ghosh, the team’s No. 2 singles player and senior captain, left the court shortly after Chen with another short-butsweet, straight-set victory. The two have pushed each other and led the team forward all season.

“What’s not to like? They’re good, and they push each other in practice. They’re not just good teammates, but good leaders,” said Westborough Head Coach Leonard O’Neil.

“I’m really grateful for this opportunity... I just think our team has been working really hard this year. We’ll give it our 100% [in the championship], and we’ll see what happens,” said Chen.

The Rangers will face the No. 3 Duxbury Dragons in the championship – the same team they lost to in the finals last year. But Westborough players have reason to be confident heading in – they defeated the Dragons in Duxbury, 3-2, in regular-season action.

“It’s a state championship. Different kinds of nerves. Different setting. We’ve played them a bunch before and we’ll give it our best effort,” Ghosh said.

“I want the boys to do well, win or lose. I want to go out there and play well, leave it all on the court, and we’ll see where the cards fall,” said O’Neil.

Girls head to third straight semifinal

On June 5, the No. 3 Westborough Rangers girls tennis team defeated the visiting No. 6 Wayland Warriors, 5-0, in the quarterfinals. With the win, the Rangers advanced to the MIAA Division 2 semifinals for the third consecutive year.

“It feels great every year because you just don’t know what’s going to happen. Every year it’s a different set of girls. I want it for myself, and I want it for them too… I’m super happy we did it. The ultimate goal is to win it all, but getting to the Final

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Four is a great threshold,” Head Coach Scott Henderson told the Community Advocate.

Though the team swept Wayland, winning all five matches, the competition was fierce. With matches spanning almost three hours in 80-degree heat, each athlete’s will was tested. Gina Hajiseyedjavady, Westborough’s No. 1 singles player, was the last athlete remaining on the court, topping Wayland’s Olivia Todd (7-5, 6-4) in one of the playoff meeting’s closer matchups.

“I’m proud of everyone today,” Henderson said warmly. For more updates, visit communityadvocate.com.

Westborough has advanced to the state semifinals. (Photo/Evan Walsh)

Westborough celebrates reaching the MIAA Division 2 semifinals. (Photo/ Evan Walsh)

Algonquin rugby falls to Weymouth in state semifinals

By Jeff Slovin Contributing Writer

NORTHBOROUGH – The No.

2 Algonquin Regional High School girls rugby team concluded its season with a 60-29 loss to No. 3 Weymouth in the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association Girls Rugby Division 1 state semifinals on June 7.

Algonquin finished the season with an overall 5-2 record.

Weymouth jumped out to a 33-7 lead with three minutes left in the first half. With a try by junior Niamh McLaughlin as time expired in the first half, and a strong start to the second half, Algonquin narrowed the lead to 38-29, but the Weymouth offense took over at that point and had control for the remainder of the game.

McLaughlin tallied 19 points for Algonquin, scoring three tries and two kicks. Senior captain Grace Herdman and junior Carly Gingras scored one try each.

A try in rugby, which is similar to scoring a touchdown in football, is worth five points, and a successful kick after a try is worth two points.

Weymouth advances to face Belmont in the state finals, which will be at Curry College on Saturday, June 15. Belmont defeated LincolnSudbury in their semifinal matchup to advance to the finals in their bracket.

Algonquin tries to steal the ball during a Weymouth lineout (Photos/Jeff Slovin)

Algonquin junior Niamh McLaughlin looks up after scoring her first of three tries during state semifinal game against Weymouth

Algonquin junior Carly Gingras maneuvers through Weymouth defenders as she carries the ball

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