Residents concerned about fate of Ward Park wading pool
marlborough | 5
‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ delights community
hudson | 11
Marlborough Hudson
An edition of the Community Advocate
Green Hudson members picket in front of Lakemont development
Expansion of City Hall plaza to be completed soon
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
MARLBOROUGH – The projects to expand the plaza behind City Hall, and upgrade Weed and Main streets, are almost done.
According to City Engineer Thomas DiPersio, the work should be “substantially complete” by Labor Day.
“Right now on Main Street, we are finishing the installation of the new traffic signal equipment, and replacing sidewalks in some areas,” he said. “The Main Street/Bolton Street intersection is being realigned to make it more pedestrian friendly and improve traffic flow. Within a few weeks final paving will be done.”
As for City Hall, the plaza is “beginning to take shape,” he said.
Demolition of the old plaza, which was built in 1978, began in April. The new plaza will feature trees, landscaping, seating and event space.
The scaffolding in front of City Hall is a separate project to repair the clock tower, said DiPersio.
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor
HUDSON – Members of Green Hudson have recently been picketing in front of the Lakemont development on Lake Boon, asking the developer to offer an electric option for heating and cooling for the future homeowners.
“It’s absurd. Just like we’re trying to phase out gasoline cars, we need to phase out homes that use gas and oil,” said Elisa Pearmain.
The development is being built by Toll Brothers.
According to the project’s website, Lakemont by Toll Brothers will include 21 singlefamily homes on the shores of Lake Boon on Old County Road. The homes will include four bedrooms and between 3.5 to 4.5 bathrooms.
The homes on display on the project’s website list prices starting at $1.4 million and run up to $1.6 million.
In a statement, a spokesperson from Toll Brothers said, “We are always exploring opportunities to incorporate green technologies into
MBTA zoning district may include Alta Marlborough, Simarano and Royal Crest
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
MARLBOROUGH – After working on several issues, the city is closer to having an MBTA multifamily overlay district.
The City Council’s Urban Affairs Committee will hold a public hearing on the proposal on Monday, Aug. 19. The proposal will also go before the Planning Board.
According to City Councilor Kate Robey, work began on the Multi-Family MBTA Housing Overlay District (MFMHOD) last year. After working with its consultant, RKG Associates, and obtaining feedback from the state’s Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities, the city presented an
updated draft to the City Council on Monday, July 22.
The proposed overlay district would be divided into three subdistricts — Royal Crest/ Briarwood, off Hosmer Street; Lincoln/Mechanic, adjacent to downtown; and Simarano, off Boston Post Road West.
Each subdistrict would need to meet requirements for lot size; open space; dwelling units per acre; parking; signage; and number of affordable units.
The purpose of the district is to “encourage the development of multi-family housing while supporting vibrant neighborhoods and proximity to the downtown and other areas of commercial activity,” according to the order
Work to expand the plaza behind City Hall is nearly complete. (Photo/Tami White)
Green Hudson member Tina Grosowsky stands near the Lakemont development. Members are asking for an electric option for heating and cooling. (Photo/ Laura Hayes)
COMMUNITY NEWS
Grafton musicians reminisce during Mill Villages concert
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
GRAFTON – On a warm and breezy Saturday, Aug. 3, three musicians from Grafton came to Mill Villages Park to entertain and reminisce.
Bob Jordan, Rob Ledoux and Joe Kuras perform at nursing homes, assisted-living facilities and senior centers. For this outdoors concert underneath the park’s pavilion, they blended music with a bit of local history.
“It’s a reunion of sorts,” said “Banjo Joe” Kuras.
The trio called this event the first annual “Hometown Heroes and Local Legends” concert. Kuras dedicated two songs to singer-songwriters with local connections — Jamie Bockett and Gary Usher.
Usher was living in California in the early 1960s when he became friends with the family next door. The family, named Wilson, had three sons. Along
with a cousin and friend, they formed the Beach Boys.
Usher ended up co-writing several songs with Brian Wilson, including “In My Room.”
Kuras also dedicated one song to the 25th anniversary of the burning of a mill not far
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from where he sat.
“It happened on this very day,” he said.
He rattled off the names of several mills in town that no longer exist, but in memory.
Plenty of friends and families crowded into the pavilion and
just beyond. When not singing along, they chatted about this class or that building with others.
Ledoux, aka “The Rob Show,” performed after Kuras, followed by Jordan. The concert was made possi-
ble, in part, through the support of the Grafton Cultural Council with funds administered by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency. Homefield Credit Union and the Town of Grafton provided additional support.
Bob Jordan warms up before the concert on Saturday, Aug. 3, at Mill Villages Park in South Grafton.
Joe Kuras kicked off the “Hometown Heroes and Local Legends” concert on Saturday, Aug. 3. Rob Ledoux begins his set with a rendition of “Different Drum.” (Photos/ Maureen Sullivan)
Community Snapshot
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
To the Editor:
We are writing in regard to the plans by the town to create a Community/Senior Center at the recently purchased property at 1500 Union Street. Although some of the ideas sound excellent, we believe there are things that need to be considered:
millions at other town-owned properties, such as the Golf Club building, on things proposed for this one, like meeting rooms, event rooms, social spaces, a commercial kitchen, etc. We don’t need two facilities with the exact same offerings.
Not-for-profit New Horizons at Marlborough offers a continuum of care, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, and geri-psych programs. Visit www.countrycommunities. com for more information.
350 words or less. Deadline is 12 p.m. Friday the week before publication. Opinions expressed in the letters to the editor do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Community Advocate management or its advertisers.
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First, determine what programs and facilities exist in other town entities so we are not wasting tax-payer money duplicating efforts. For example, the Westborough Public Library already provides many things being proposed for this facility. It should be noted that if voters hadn’t rejected the library expansion, it might have made the purchase of 1500 Union unnecessary, and we would have had $9 million in state money to spend instead of spending nearly that amount of taxpayer money to buy a 62,000 sq ft building which town officials have acknowledged is too large for our needs. It is estimated that 20,000 to 40,000 sq ft of space, the size of many entire town buildings such as the Library, Town Hall, Fire Department, Golf Club Building, Forbes Community Center, and Harvey School building, we may not even use!
Secondly, ensure we don’t spend
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.
Finally, for years the town has been a poor steward of its property. This is clearly evident in the historic Golf Club building, with almost a million dollars in deferred maintenance and repairs. Ironic that some officials are saying it should be torn down without acknowledging that the town’s neglect is how it got into its current sorry state. Before beginning work on 1500 Union Street, which is 17 years old and in need of code upgrades and other improvements, we encourage the Town Manager and Board of Selectmen to develop a transparent and truly professional management system for its property, facilities, and leasing activities, one accessible by residents on the town website. This step in the right direction might engender more support from residents for this latest project.
Sincerely,
R. Christopher Noonan and Luanne Crosby Westborough
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MARLBOROUGH – A trio of four-legged athletes amazed and delighted residents at New Horizons at Marlborough. The vibrant senior community welcomed K9 frisbee specialist Mike Piazza and his Flying High Dogs. Pictured, from left: Resident Joan Ferguson and community service associate Eduardo Alcebiades Sapata, of Marlborough, with Flying High Dogs performer Mojo and owner Mike Piazza.
MBTA | from page 1 objectives of the city.”
submitted to the council. “The goals of the MFMHOD include enhancing land use development and encouraging desired residential growth patterns for the benefit of the public health, safety and welfare, and to allow for the development of higher density housing in close proximity to commercial uses consistent with the stated economic development
The units at Royal Crest and Briarwood were built in the 1970s.
Simarano — the Green District — is under construction. Phase 1 was the Burrow, which included 235 units, and Phase 2 — The Lodge — have both been completed; phases 3 and 4 have been approved by the city. The next two phases would add 475 dwelling units
and nearly 700 parking spaces to the site.
The site at Lincoln/Mechanic — Alta Marlborough — is also under construction. The site would include 276 dwelling units and 448 parking spaces.
Marlborough has until Dec. 31, 2024, to adopt a multifamily overlay district that will meet the state executive office’s guidelines.
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
MARLBOROUGH – A pickleball facility may be coming soon to 119 Airport Blvd., Unit 11.
Ambidextrous Ventures LLC has applied for a special permit to build a 19,950-square-foot
Assisted Living Suites Available
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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.
building on an 85,337-squarefoot lot within the limited industrial zoning district.
The facility would include six indoor courts; a small practice court; a pro shop; and restrooms. There would also be an outdoor court, picnic area and 76 parking spaces.
The application was brought before the City Council on Monday, July 22. It has been sent to the council’s Urban Affairs Committee for a public hearing on Monday, Aug. 19.
Marlborough native leads tour of aircraft carrier in Guam
MARLBOROUGH – Senior Chief Mass Communication Specialist Michael Lantron, who is from Marlborough, gave a tour of the flight deck to guests from a group of future sailors from Guam aboard the U.S. Navy’s only forwarddeployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), during a scheduled port visit to Guam on June 21.
Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region.
Senior Chief Mass Communication Specialist Michael Lantron, from Marlborough, gives a tour of the flight deck to guests from a group of future sailors from Guam aboard the USS Ronald Reagan during a scheduled port visit to Guam, June 21. (Courtesy Photo)
Residents concerned about fate of Ward Park wading pool
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
MARLBOROUGH – The City Council has postponed a vote on whether to swap out the wading pool at Ward Park for a splash pad.
Ward 3 Councilor Robert Preciado asked the council for the delay. He said that many of his constituents around Ward Park are not in favor of the proposed change, and he wants to get more input.
Preciado staged a listening session on July 30 at Lost Shoe. Those who were unable to attend the session are encouraged to contact Preciado at ward_3@marlborough-ma. gov.
“Whether we ultimately get a pool or a splash pad, I think it’s important that there is
Quinn graduates from firefighting academy
Quinn, a lieutenant with the U.S. Coast Guard, has graduated from the Massachusetts Firefighter Academy Career Recruit Training Program. She is joining the Marlborough Fire Department. (Courtesy Photo)
MARLBOROUGH – Madison Quinn, a lieutenant (junior grade) with the U.S. Coast Guard, recently graduated from the state’s Firefighting Academy Career Recruit Training Program.
Quinn is a member of the Marlborough Fire Department; she was assigned to the department through the SkillBridge and Hero to Hero programs.
Hero to Hero places activeduty military personnel in roles as first responders.
Quinn will work and train with the department as a firefighter until she completes her military obligation in November, at which point she will become a permanent member of the department.
community input and engagement,” said Preciado.
Mayor J. Christian Dumais and the Department of Public Works said the change is needed because it’s becoming harder to maintain the wading pool.
The wading pool is part of a $1 million bond request that would also refurbish the wad-
ing pool at 58 Sawin St.
The vote has been pushed to Monday, Aug. 19.
Other bond requests approved
During its meeting on Monday, July 22, the council approved more than $9 million in bond requests.
These include $1.5 mil -
lion for culvert replacements at Mowry Brook and the Causeway Street extension; $500,000 for Fort Meadow Dam maintenance; $2 million for water main replacements at various locations; $300,000 for Lakeshore Drive and Birch Road pump station upgrade design; $200,000 for Hager Street reconstruction; $1.5 mil-
lion for Chandler Street pavement reconstruction; $1 million for pavement mill and overlay for Burns Road, McGee Avenue and Conrad Road; $500,000 in additional funds for waste relocation at the Hudson Street landfill; $120,000 to replace a boiler at the Walker Building; and $350,000 for site work at Evergreen Cemetery.
Madison
Former Sonesta Suites could become 109 apartments
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – The site of the former Sonesta Suites hotel at 25 Connector Road could soon become apartments.
Craig Miller of Waterfield Design Group came before the Select Board on Tuesday, July 23, to present a site plan overview.
The site is 12 acres and currently houses Avia Residences on Research, with seven buildings, plus a pool. Should the town approve the plans, the site would be
This site at 25 Connector Road, which is currently Avia Residences on Research, could become one- and two-bedroom apartment units if plans are approved by the town.
(Photo/Maureen Sullivan)
Body, Spirit
Wake Up Refreshed
(Family Features) Ready, set, go. Just as you would set o at the starting line of a race, this hectic pace is how mornings begin for many men and women.
Instead of waking with dread to face another hectic morning, consider these tips for a healthier way to ease into your daily rituals. While these activities may require you to allow extra time, you may be pleased with the productive results.
Meditate. A practice that has been around for thousands of years may still be one of the best stress busters for hurried mornings. To start, nd a place in your home that is free of noise and distraction. Practice sitting still, with eyes closed, and focus only on your breathing. Using deep, controlled breaths, try to steer your thoughts away from negative and stress-inducing thoughts.
Stretch. While the most health-conscious person may opt for a morning sweat-athon, working in some stretches can also be bene cial. When you awake, think about oft-used muscles and extend each one for 15-30 seconds.
converted into 109 one- and two-bedroom apartment units.
Miller told the board that due to the size of units, the site would draw “mainly young professionals.”
He added the clubhouse and pool would be renovated, and 31 parking spaces would be added. The plans also call for bicycle storage and 28 chargers for electric vehicles.
The site is currently served by town sewer; Miller said one of the buildings would have a septic tank.
The project, which will require a special permit, will come before the Planning Board on Tuesday, Aug. 20.
Activate. Give your brain some fuel in the morning while also doing something nice for your mind. For example, journaling is a gentle way to ease into your
morning and get your brain ring. If you can’t think of a topic, simply write down a few a rmations for the day, revisit a pleasant memory from your past or scribble down a goal for the week. Journaling can be an uplifting way to engage the mind and express gratitude for the day ahead.
Find more tips for starting your day on the right foot at eLivingToday.com.
Green Hudson members picket in front of Lakemont development
Lakemont | from page 1
our communities. For example, all Toll Brothers homes in Massachusetts include electric car charges and offer options for solar energy systems and electric appliance packages.”
The project first went before the Planning Board in June 2022.
According to meeting minutes, the development will sit on a 16-acre parcel. Prior to development, there were four small houses and associated out buildings on the site, and the remainder of the property was wooded.
The plans call for an entrance to the development off Old County Road. The road will then split into two cul-de-sacs.
Ultimately, the Planning Board approved the application for the project that November.
Green Hudson member’s concerns
According to Green Hudson member Tina Grosowsky, they have met with Toll Brothers “many times” because the group was concerned about climate change and greenhouse gas emissions. Toll Brothers is constructing the homes without an electric option for heating and cooling, and all of the homes will be using propane gas for their heating and cooling, she said.
“We know gas causes greenhouse gas emissions and is what’s contributing to global warming,” said Grosowsky.
She noted that several communities in Massachusetts are participating in a pilot program to limit the use of fossil fuels in building projects. If the municipalities are suc -
cessful, the state may allow towns to vote to have fossil fuel-free construction moving forward, she said.
“That means places like Hudson – these new buildings will all be stranded assets. So, people will have them, and they’ll be on gas, and they’re going to have to pay to convert over to electricity as opposed to being able to buy it in the
first place,” said Grosowsky. When the Community Advocate spoke with Pearmain and Grosowsky on July 19, Green Hudson members had already picketed near the development the prior week. Grosowsky said Toll Brothers had not reached out to them since they began picketing. She said they also reached out to upper level manage -
ment, but hadn’t heard back, though they did speak with a regional director and the developer designee for community liaison.
Grosowsky said one of the people the Green Hudson members spoke with said that Toll Brothers was getting close, but they were not offering an electric option for heating and cooling.
“They say they’re just too big of a corporation to do that with all of their suppliers already have all of the stuff and they can’t go outside of the suppliers that they use,” said Pearmain. “You know, it’s a good story, but it’s got to change. They have to know that people are going to demand this, and they can’t keep doing it.”
Elisa Pearmain stands in near the intersection of Old County Road and Main Street.
The Lakemont development will include 21 homes on Lake Boon. (Photos/Laura Hayes)
Aging Gracefully
by MariAnn Paladino, Dir. of Admissions, Notre Dame Long Term Care
GRANDPARENTS RAISING GRANDCHILDREN
For many grandparents, spending time with their grandchildren often means weekends and occasional holidays together and a week in the summer. However, when circumstances change through divorce, legal situations, child abuse, or the parents’ death, it often falls on the grandparents to assume responsibility for their grandchildren. Known as “kinship care” a growing number of grandparents are taking on this vital role. Grandparents typically don’t expect to be raising children again at this stage of life, and although raising kids can be exceptionally challenging the second time around, it is not without its rewards. Support groups and online group forums are available, and it can be helpful to make friends with seniors in similar situations. Many assisted living communities organize special events around grandparents, inviting family members for celebrations featuring entertainment, family activities, refreshments, music and more. Please call NOTRE DAME LONG TERM CARE CENTER at (508) 852-3011 to learn more about our long-term care services. We are located at 559 Plantation Street.
P.S. It is important for grandparents to acknowledge their feelings about parenting again, both positive and negative.
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Long Term Care
559 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 508.852.3011 · notredamehealthcare.org
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HOMES MORE&
Summer School for Real Estate Agents
By Gary Kelley
Imiss my summers with my kids at home. While they had events and friends occupying their time, it always seemed like a lighter time at work, without a need to rush home to do homework. We could run to Uhlmans and grab an ice cream. It was a kinder gentler time.
listing service.
In the past, sellers would set a percentage and work with their agent on how to divvy it up between the listing and buying agents.
Now we can no longer see in the listing if the seller is offering buyer’s agent compensation…. going forward buyer agents will need to call the listing agent to see what, if any, compensation is offered.
Mind blown?
508-733-6005 MoveWithGary.com Gary@MoveWithGary.com
Alas, the kids have grown up and are now bringing their kids to Uhlmans. One thing dramatically changing this year is a new approach in real estate prompting most agents to learn new ways of doing business. The fuss has to do with the fees for professional services due residential real estate agents at closing.
Starting Aug. 17, Sellers will no longer set the commissions for real estate agents who represent buyers. Buyers and the buyer’s agent will negotiate how much the buyer agents will be paid. Even when sellers are willing to pay some or all of the commission for the buyer’s agent, the amount will no longer appear on the multiple
It gets more fun. The central MA MLS, the MLSPIN (MLS – Property Information Network) has announced “MLS PIN cannot enter into an agreement to ban the publication of free-market compensation offers without offending the very antitrust principles DOJ claims to be protecting,” the response says. “To impose such a ban through a federal injunction would also suppress speech that is protected under the First Amendment. DOJ never denies that sellers have the right to compensate buyer brokers; it only advocates arbitrary restraints on the communication of compensation offers”.
Real estate evolves like any industry, and this is just part of the evolution.
One thing absolutely changing is a buyer will now need to sign a buyer contract before seeing a home. We’ve needed to get an agency disclosure for years…this is one more layer. Also, any seller choosing to represent themselves rather than hire a real estate agent needs to be very cautious as to what they say or don’t say to a Buyer as this could be used against them before or after closing on the sale of the property.
Real estate agents are in school this summer. One of the challenges is the book isn’t fully written.
These things will sort themselves out…. they always do. It’s another reason to use an experienced agent valuing professional development.
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.
This is a short piece on a complicated topic. Refer to NAR. REALTOR for up to date and complete information.
Gary
By Evan Walsh Reporter
SHREWSBURY – A staple of downtown Shrewsbury will soon shut its doors.
Shrewsbury Country Shoppe — located at 598 Main St. in Shrewsbury — will close “within the month,” according to a July 31 Facebook post made by Debbie Cottam, the store’s owner.
“The sad thing is I can’t be part of the small business community we’ve built over the last seven years,” Cottam said in the Facebook post. “I’m going to miss all our awesome customers, the people that worked here. It’s just been a blessing to be able to be a part of it. I will continue to support the community in any way that I can.
“The decision is best for my family, which is most important,” she said.
Cottam did not go into great detail about the shoppe’s closing, though she mentioned that the company had been hacked in March. After
the shoppe closes, Cottam said she will work on other prospects, transitioning to something in the design realm.
There will be a closing sale that includes 20% to 30% off the entire store.
Charles Roche joins fire dept.
WESTBOROUGH – Westborough firefighter/EMT Charles Roche graduated from the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy (MFA) on Friday, July 26.
Roche was one of 33 graduates from 23 departments in the Career Recruit Firefighting Training Program Class #322.
Roche, a Westborough resident, is also currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in fire science from Anna Maria College in Paxton.
“I would like to congratulate Charles on this important achievement,” said Fire Chief Patrick Purcell. “We look forward to welcoming him to the department, and I commend his commitment to serving our community.”
During the 50-day training program, participants receive
classroom training in all basic firefighter skills. They practice first under non-fire conditions and then during controlled fire conditions. The graduates are now certified at the level of firefighter I and II and in hazardous material operation.
Shrewsbury Country Shoppe will close in the near future. (File Photo)
Charles Roche
‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ delights community
By Laney Halsey Contributing Writer
HUDSON - The Hudson Ar -
mory Project held performances of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” in an effort to raise money and share art.
From Aug. 2 to 4, local actors brought William Shakespeare’s play to life.
The project began after producer and actor Anna Lee Percuoco moved to Hudson in 2020 and noticed that there weren’t opportunities for community theater in the area. As a theater teacher in Framingham, she took it upon herself to implement it, and she reached out to the Hudson Armory Project and found a director.
“I think theater is something that brings the community together. It can be for
entertainment. It’s a mirror that we hold up to society to show people who they are
and how they can be better,”
Percuoco said.
Forty people showed up
Back to Sch l
AMERICA’S BEST DEFENSE
at auditions and the cast was lowered to 13. The cast met three times a week for three to four hours to rehearse.
“It’s something that we can celebrate,” Percuoco said. “All of these people came from all of these different areas, all of these careers, all of these life paths and decided to come together in their free time and do something for their community. It’s a gift to Hudson.”
Director Nick Gould’s job was to cut down the original play, develop the different aspects of the performance and fine tune it into an entire production. However, he also worked to include the choices and ideas that the actors brought in.
“As I like to say, I tell them where to stand and they do the job,” Gould said.
Gould spoke to his desire for the event to continue.
“This is an amazing experience. It was a great time for everybody who was here,” Gould said. “I do hope that the Hudson Armory Project gets everything they need out of it, but also that they feel it’s something good to bring back next year, and this can become a tradition.”
The Hudson Armory Project is an initiative of the Hudson Cultural Alliance to transform the armory into an arts and cultural center. For more information on the project and upcoming events, visit https:// www.hudsonarmoryproject. org/.
Director Nick Gould introduced the performance of ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ at the Hudson Armory during a dress rehearsal on Aug. 1.
Producer Anna Lee Percuoco (R) played Lysander during the performance of ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream.’
Actors performed Shakespeare in the park in a fundraiser for the Hudson Armory Project. (Photos/Laney Halsey)
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – There’s been some complaining about the town’s new Pay-as-You Throw (PAYT) program, but there’s also been success.
Board of Health Director
Jennifer Sullivan and Waste Program Coordinator Al Gordon presented an update to the Select Board on Tuesday, July 23.
According to Sullivan, 2,152 permits have been purchased by residents, including 171 online. Eighteen seniors have applied for the subsidized PAYT bag program.
When the program went into effect on July 1, the emphasis was on educating visitors, said Gordon.
“We had 103 vehicles with-
out stickers” on the first day, he said. The vehicles were allowed to use the transfer station, but the drivers were told to purchase a sticker.
Enforcement began on July 15. Those without a sticker, and without the town’s PAYT bags, are being turned away.
Both Sullivan and Gordon said they have seen a decrease in the amount of trash and traffic at the transfer station.
According to information presented to the board, traffic at the transfer station has been reduced by about 50%, and there’s already been a reduction in tonnage.
“We’re getting the word out,” said Gordon.
According to Sullivan, the biggest issues have been illegal dumping at the site when the
transfer station is not staffed by town volunteers; and outof-towners.
Gordon said a “lot of people from Upton” who used to access the transfer station have been turned away, along with Tidy Town customers trying to bring their overflow without a sticker and bags.
“We’re catching them at the gate,” he said.
“This is what we expected to see,” said Select Board Ian Johnson of the reduction of visits to the Transfer Station from out-of-towners.
The issue with illegal dumping may take a while to resolve. According to Town Manager Kristi Williams, Harvey’s/Waste Management will not step in to help with illegal dumping. It may lead to the town to provide
funding for someone to help with enforcement.
About the program
In order to dispose of waste at the transfer station, residents must have a 2024-25 transfer station permit on their vehicle, and all waste in PAYT bags. Transfer station permits are available in person at the Board of Health office on the second floor of Town Hall, 34 W. Main St., or online via the town’s website. Permits are required for both waste disposal and recycling at the transfer station. To obtain a permit, residents must have valid photo identification; vehicle registration; and proof of Westborough residency.
Hours at the transfer station are weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4
p.m., and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
PAYT bags – $10 for either a roll of 10 small bags, or five large bags – may be purchased at Roche Bros. at 1100 Union St.; Westborough Ace Hardware, 1 Phillips St.; Nouria Energy, 128 Turnpike Road; Market Basket, 200 Hartford Turnpike, Shrewsbury; and India Market, 1000 Boston Turnpike, Shrewsbury.
According to Sullivan, Stop & Shop is in the process of becoming another location to purchase PAYT bags.
For information on the program, go to https://www.westboroughma.gov/
West Nile virus detected in Grafton
SUNNY BEACHES & LOCAL BANKING
GRAFTON – The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has announced that West Nile virus has been detected in mosquitoes collected from Grafton in a trap located on Leland Hill Road.
At this time, no human cases have been detected, and the virus risk level in Grafton remains low.
In coordination with the town, Grafton Board of Health and the Central Massachusetts Regional Public Health Alliance, the Central Massachusetts Mosquito Control Project scheduled a truck-mounted pesticide application on Thursday, Aug. 1, after 8:30 p.m. (weather permitting), where the positive virus-carrying insect was found. Aug. 1 was one of the previously scheduled days for the control project to service Grafton.
The area to be sprayed included a stretch of Main Street along the Sutton border.
Personnel from the control project are tentatively planning to be in Grafton on Aug. 15, 22 and 29 to respond to mosquitorelated concerns from residents. Requests for pesticide spraying in limited areas using truckmounted equipment may be considered on those dates.
Residents may opt out of having their property sprayed during wide-area pesticide application by following instructions on the Massachusetts
Planning Board
By Evan Walsh Reporter
SHREWSBURY – After 18 total hours of public hearings, an industrial park slated for Clinton Street was unanimously approved by the Planning Board on Aug. 1.
The project, proposed for 142 Clinton St., calls for two warehouses — one 515,000-squarefoot building and one 375,000-square-foot building — with roughly 500 parking spaces and 170 loading docks. The developer — Boston-based GFI Partners LLC — has not given any information about tenants for the project, though the company said the proposed warehouse may accommodate a 24/7 operation.
At a contentious meeting in
July, residents had requested information about how the town would access clean water in the event the Clinton Street development, which is located near the town’s aquifer, compromises the town’s supply.
At that point, the Planning Board voted to continue the public hearing to the Aug. 1 meeting.
“Something was brought up about the Route 20 [water] connection [from Worcester]. Could we present that to the board? In case of an emergency — that seems to be the biggest issue right now. Let’s put the people’s mind at ease,” said Planning Board member Konstantin Eliadi.
Director of Planning and Economic Development Christopher McGoldrick provided
a memorandum prior to the Aug. 1 meeting that disclosed that Shrewsbury has an emergency water connection with Worcester.
The infrastructure has been in place for over a century, said McGoldrick, and was last used in 2023. Connection to the Worcester system takes about two hours, he continued, and can be done 24/7.
Though the public was afforded the opportunity to comment on the project in previous meetings, the Planning Board voted to close the public hearing almost immediately after McGoldrick spoke.
As the opportunity for public feedback had ended, some of the several dozen community members sitting in the room began to interrupt Planning
Board Chair Moe DePalo.
“Let me explain the way public hearings work. Public hearings are to get comments from the public. … The board is not required to continue to have
West Nile | from page 12
Department of Agricultural Resources website: http://mass. gov/.../how-to-request-anexclusion-or-opt....
To avoid mosquito bites and the diseases they can transmit, residents are encouraged to practice the “5 Ds:”
• DRESS in long sleeves and pants when possible. Cover up during periods of mosquito activity.
• DEET is an effective insect repellent. Always follow the label instructions.
public input after the board thinks that it has enough information for it to make a decision. … The board can, at its discretion, close a public hearing at any time it wants,” said DePalo.
• DAWN & DUSK are mosquitoes’ most active periods.
• DRAIN water from containers weekly. Avoid standing water, such as rain collecting in open bins, buckets, or toys. More information from the public health department, including all West Nile virus and Eastern equine encephalitis positive results in the state, can be found at www.mass. gov/dph/mosquito, or by calling public health’s Division of Epidemiology at 617-9836800.
Hudson musician releases new album
Rosemary Rimkus
HUDSON – “Gone,” an independent-release album by Hudson musician Jack Colaianni, is now available on Spotify and YouTube.
Although the 28-year old acoustic guitar player and singer has performed with several rock bands and composed rockn-roll music, he said his “Gone” folk-music album has “softer songs.”
Musician–teacher Jack Colaianni appears on the cover of his new Folk Music album “Gone.” It is a departure from the previous rockn-roll compositions of the Hudson man.
“About a year ago I began to think about the love I have for my life, the work that I do, and the town [Hudson] that I grew up in, and the ‘Gone’ songs resulted,” the teacher-musician said.
Colaianni said he was about
10 years old when his father, John Colaianni, taught him to play the alto saxophone, and he learned power chords on acoustic guitar from his uncle, Bill Rubino. A 2014 graduate of Hudson High School, he appeared in school productions of “The Producers” and “Godspell,” and also organized his first band, “13 Waffles Later.” While with “Odds for the Ageless,” he performed at the former Harvest Café (now Kith n Kin). A few years ago, his punk rock band “Local Cult,” got good reviews on Boston blogs after playing at “Charlie’s Kitchen” in Cambridge.
The son of John and Ginny Colaianni, and grandson of Mary Rubino, all of Hudson, Jack holds a bachelor’s degree from Fitchburg State College and his master’s from Lesley University. In his “day job,” he heads an after-school program and is a pre-school teacher at the Learning Center in Hopkinton.
Keep singing and composing Jack!
Couple’s shower
A “Couple’s Shower” was held for Stephanie Maria Durand and her fiancé Thomas Patrick Mroz July 19 at Hudson Portuguese Club, as a way of introducing both families.
Over 220 guests attended from throughout the area to shower the couple with gifts and best wishes. The shower was hosted by Nicole Fanning, who will be her sister’s matron of honor. The couple will be married in September at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross, Boston.
The bride-to-be is a graduate of Becker College School of Nursing accelerated program and is a registered nurse at Broward Health Medical Trauma Center, Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. She is the daughter of Lizett Frias-Valchuis and Daniel M. Durand, and granddaughter of Antonio and Maria Frias, Ruth Durand and the late Albert Durand. Dr. Mroz, from Phoenix, Ariz., graduated from Creighton School of Medicine, and completed his residency at
Broward General, where he is an emergency medicine physician at the Trauma Center.
He is the son of Robert John Mroz and the late honorable Rosa Peng Mroz, and the grandson of Jane Peng of Phoenix and Rosemary Mroz of Salem. Best wishes, you two!
Portuguese-Brazilian Festival
St. Michael’s Annual Portuguese-Brazilian Festival will be held Saturday, Aug. 24, at the Hudson Portuguese Club, Port St., from 5-10 p.m. The festival will feature Portuguese and Brazilian foods, music, dancing and raffle prizes. Raffle tickets are $20 each and the winners will claim $4,000 first prize, $2,000 second prize and electric bicycle third prize, to be awarded that evening. Tickets are on sale from Naomi Braga, cell 508-733-8908 or home phone 978-568-1340.
Ms. Braga said the Festival was held for many years in the St. Michael Church school yard, but since last year, it has been
held at the Portuguese Club.
Music lovers alert Summer concerts continue Wednesday, Aug. 21, at 6:30 p.m. at Vic Dyer Memorial Shell, 65 Park St., when “Rhythm” a three piece vocal band will perform. Bring chairs or blankets.
Granddaughter tours
Massachusetts Anastasia Walling, 14, of Liverpool, N.Y., granddaughter of Hudson residents Mike and Mary Walling, was conducted on a tour of Massachusetts “must-sees” on a recent visit. It was Anastasia’s first visit “on her own,” and her grandparents took her to Ecotarium
A “Couple’s Shower” honoring Stephanie Maria Durand and her fiancé Thomas Patrick Mroz was held at Hudson Portuguese Club with more than 220 people honoring the couple, who plan a September wedding. (Photos/Courtesy)
Dave Quinn Jr. and “Vic the Barber”
Aug. 11 – Crystal Greene, Kevin Coleman, Anna Drummey, Matt Monteiro and James Reardon
Aug. 12 – Arthur Redding and Barbara Maglione
Aug. 13 – Shelby Horton, Jared Colbert, Michael Barry and Keri Lenthall
Aug. 14 – Shaelyn Madden, Antonio Costa, Nicole Gilles, Ollie Nunes, Adam Tedstone and Olivia Esteves
in Worcester, New England Aquarium and Science Museum in Boston, House of Seven Gables in Salem, the Witch Museum, Erickson’s ice cream stand in Maynard, and locally to Centennial Beach, where they spotted a Bald Eagle! What a visit!
Rock painting Aug. 20
Adults are invited to Rock Painting classes at the Hudson Public Library Tuesday, Aug. 20, at 6:30 p.m. Rocks will be supplied, and you can paint nature scenes on smooth stones. Program is for adults 18 and over. Register at huds.pl/events.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
Aug. 10 – John Stapelfeld,
Aug. 21 – Richard Spiller, Maggie Appel, Jaclyn Marie Bratica, Joyce Rossignol and Joanne Waterhouse
Aug. 22 – Colby Quest, Jason Braga, Chris Sullivan, Paul Sadowski and Justin Underwood
Aug. 23 – Kathy Roemer, Matt Smith, Dan McClellan and Amanda Dalton
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY
Aug. 11 – Leo and Margaret Murphy
Aug. 15 – Mike Naugler and Dave Scott
Aug. 16 – Kyle LaCerte, Michael Blake, Jimmy Moraes, Michael Campbell, Alyssa MacDonald, Alyssa Wetherell and Liana Braga Peterson
Aug. 17 – Bill Charbonneau, Tom Morgan, Michael Percuoco and Jacy Calvao
Aug. 18 – Nancy Zina, Gerry Kerdok, MaryBeth Goodwin, Chuck Jacobs, Bill Cabral, Zachary Murphy and Dick Hubert
Aug. 19 – Dan Milton, Michelle Monteiro, Matthew Keenan, Bob Melewski and Julia Tracy
Aug. 20 – Cristina Fernandes, Dick Thomas and Steve Beard
Aug. 13 – George and Beverly Sousa
Aug. 14 – Alan and Susan Saunders
Aug. 15 – Ron and Peg Desrosiers
Aug. 16 – Jim and Susan Niro
Aug. 17 – Jim and Susie Norton
Aug. 18 – Steve and Pat Yerardi
Aug. 19 – John and Mary Loureiro, Steve and Debbie Jacobs
Aug. 21 – Tom and Maryanne Ethier, Fran and Karen Michaud, John and Mary Stapelfeld, Bill and Chris Bisset
Aug. 22 – Ernie and Lee Waingortin, Robert and Lee Clark
Aug. 23 – Kenny and Arlene Blair, Frank and Cheryl Budrewicz
LOOKING BACK TO 1973
Sisters Paula Visnoski and Linda Rafuse were exhibiting their paintings at Hudson Public Library. Tom Walsh, retired Light & Power manager, was taking a course at the University of New Hampshire. The former Coolidge property at 132 Packard St. was bought by Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Cody, formerly of Michigan Drive.
Hudson Youth Football was reorganized with Earle Winand as president. Adeline Perry was president of the Senior Citizens of Hudson. Dave Otto defeated Stan Diniz for the men’s championship of Riverside Tennis Club. D & M Shoe store, South St., was selling back to school shoes at factory prices. A total of 24 modular homes were being built at Lake Boone Drive and West Street.
Sent items for Hudson Happ’nings to 18 Cottage St., Hudson, Mass. 01749 or email rrimkus18@ comcast.net.
Northborough Cable may not be able to sustain budget, level of service by FY27
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor
NORTHBOROUGH – Northborough Cable Access Television (NCAT) Director Dana Volke said during the Financial Trend Summit on Aug. 1 that the department may go before Town Meeting to have the town subsidize its budget.
According to Volke, in NCAT’s history, the department has not been funded by tax dollars, but instead through 5% of Charter and Verizon cable TV revenue, called a PEG fee, plus a fixed capital amount per contract. The contracts with Verizon and Charter expire in 2027 and 2033, respectively.
According to his presentation, the number of cable subscribers has fallen from 5,016 in 2017 to 3,259 in 2023 as customers pursue other options like Hulu and YouTube TV. As a result, the total cable payments from Carter and Verizon have decreased from $265,620.27 in 2017 to $193,198.79 in 2023.
On average, Northborough Cable has lost 4.5% of revenue a year, which translates to about 300 subscribers.
“There’s no way that we can get any kind of internet revenue from these cable providers,” said Volke. “All of the other people in this industry have been going to the state to get that to happen, and it just hasn’t happened.”
His projected budget for fiscal year 2026 is $319,532.76, and most of this projection is the cost of the employees. The department has two full-time employees and three parttime.
Volke said he did have funds built into his budget — about $12,500 — to fix or replace equipment.
As for the difference between the budget and revenue, Volke said the department has been dipping into its savings over the past several years. He estimated that by fiscal year 2027, the department will not be able to sustain its budget and current level of service.
He proposed going before Town Meeting at that time to help subsidize the difference between the revenue and budget to help the department maintain its level of service.
Goals and projects
As the new director, Volke hopes to modernize the department over the next three to five years and move away
YouTube and social media presence and install permanent equipment in high coverage areas, such as the library and Algonquin Regional High School auditorium. He also wants to collaborate with ARHS, hold AV camps with the Recreation Department, work on digitally archiving their legacy media, install closed captions for live broadcasts and distribute NCAtv Streaming and VOD apps.
from the “old school” stigma of public access.
“I really wanted to really focus on communications and relevant marketing for our town departments and our nonprofits and the town in general,” he said.
Volke is also interested in improving the quality of meeting coverage, use more podcasts, consolidate NCAT’s
He said there are several capital projects that will be imperative to focus on in the coming years, including replacing the TelVue broadcast server ($55,000) and implementing closed captions ($11,000) in fiscal 2026; installing AV equipment in the ARHS auditorium ($50,000) in fiscal 2027; installing equipment in the ARHS library ($40,000) in fiscal 2028; and installing equipment in the meeting space at Lincoln Street School ($65,000) and library meeting room ($85,000) in fiscal 2029.
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I have truly set my roots in SALMON and feel fortunate to work for a company that values its employees and encourages positive career growth. The supportive environment at SALMON Health & Retirement cultivates a warm and compassionate community where both staff members and residents work together to help each other grow and achieve their potential. I’m glad to share the enriching qualities with those considering an independent living lifestyle.
NCAT Volunteer Jeff Ellis covers a girls basketball game at ARHS. (photo/ Courtesy)
Town frustrated with trash removal firm Lake Chauncy closed until further notice
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH
– During its meeting on Thursday, Aug. 1, the Select Board expressed its frustration with its trash removal company E.L. Harvey/Waste Connections over delays in securing a new contract.
A request to extend the deadline to Aug. 21 was unanimously approved, but not before the board had some things to say.
“Harvey’s has not been communicating with the town,” said Select Board member Allen Edinberg. “I think it’s important for them to know we’re watching them closely.”
Northborough Cultural Council seeks public
Edinberg cited the decision by Harvey’s to close the transfer station at 1 p.m. on Saturdays. The change in schedule was not communicated with the town, he said.
“That was done in bad faith,” he said. “They’re backing away from what we thought was a commitment.”
In addition, Town Manager Kristi Williams said that Harvey’s wants to start charging the town for recyclables.
Edinberg went so far as to suggest “the town should look at contingency plans.”
“We’ve been in negotiations with them for almost a year,” he said. “I don’t have a sense that
The Select Board recently voiced its frustrations with E.L. Harvey/Waste Connections over contract delays.
(Photo/Laura Hayes)
we’re actually closer [to a deal].”
Board member Shelby Marshall agreed with Edinberg. She said that Harvey’s has been made aware that its “license was on the line;” if there is no contract, there is no license, and that would affect Harvey’s entire operation in town.
Board member Ian Johnson acknowledged that contingency plans “will be tough to do” and stressed the need to strike a new deal.
“We’re at the end of the rope here,” he said. “This needs to be done.”
The Community Advocate has reached out to E.L. Harvey/Waste Connections for comment.
WESTBOROUGH – The town has announced that Lake Chauncy will be closed until further notice. The Public Health Department has issued an advisory for cyanobacteria, which has been detected in the lake.
Cyanobacteria is also known as blue-green algae, and it can be dangerous to humans and animals. The algae bloom has the appearance of pea soup. The organisms can produce a toxic byproduct known as cyanotoxins that can cause a range of health effects.
People and animals can be
exposed to the cyanobacteria blooms when they touch, swallow or inhale airborne droplets from water with the blooms; eat contaminated shellfish or fish; or use contaminated bluegreen algae dietary supplements.
Health effects include diarrhea, nausea or vomiting; skin, eye or throat irritation; allergic reactions; breathing difficulties; and a red, raised rash. The closure has been posted at multiple locations at Lake Chauncy. If you have questions, contact the health department at 508-366-3045.
Lake Chauncy will be closed until further notice following a cyanobacteria advisory. (Photo/Laura Hayes)
COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
Renovation, new build options for Neary to be narrowed
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor
SOUTHBOROUGH – The Neary Building Committee is planning to meet Aug. 12 and could narrow the three options it is considering for Neary Elementary School to one.
“We’re making a recommendation that will be brought forward to the town that will likely impact residents for 50 plus years. Our ask is that they educate themselves on the project — the pros and cons of what we’re proposing … and what the cost is to them and whether it is an inhibiting factor for their own personal financial situation,” said Neary Building Committee Chair Jason Malinowski.
There are impacts to whatever the community decides, he said.
“If we do nothing, then we’re just prolonging the inevitable and putting bandaids on the structure and query how long
it can be safe to be a school,” he said. “If we do a two-grade school, then it is going to force us to have to look at the Finn School in a very short period of time, which is also of the same vintage in terms of age … It has just been the beneficiary of a few additions, but no significant modifications to its core. Then obviously if we do a four-grade school, it solves our capital needs for the foreseeable future outside of minimal things like roofing and those items that you change on regular frequency.”
History
About four years ago, the School Committee’s Capital Planning Subcommittee had been meeting regularly with the Capital Improvement and Planning Committee. Malinowski, who also chairs the Capital Improvement and Planning Committee, recalled that the groups were looking at the
capital needs at Neary and decided to approach the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) to enter into the authority’s eligibility period.
The town was successful and entered the eligibility period.
As part of that process, the committees needed to go to the town and get funding for a feasibility study, which was subsequently approved at Town Meeting. The project was
moved forward in the MSBA process and into the feasibility study.
Malinowski said the feasibility study process is to get the project narrowed to one preferred option that would be brought before the town for funding at some point next spring.
“Obviously, when you’re looking at a school, there’s a lot of things that go into that both from an educational visioning perspective, but also what does the community need now and into the future and also looking at the cost,” Malinowski said.
A subcommittee was formed with the goal to study the enrollment of Southborough Public Schools. According to Malinowski, as part of the work, the committee considered whether having students change elementary schools every two grades was the best model for Southborough moving forward.
Currently, Finn is home to kindergarten and first grade followed by Woodward, which has second and third grade classrooms, and Neary, which has fourth and fifth grade.
Malinowski said while there are educational reasons as to why changing schools every two grades isn’t the best model, from a capital perspective, the town hasn’t invested in a significant capital project at any of the elementary schools in 25 to 30 years.
Neary was constructed in 1970. According to Superintendent Greg Martineau, the educational visioning and mission was different at that time compared to today.
He said the school has served the community well. However, he noted that the facility is not compliant with the Americans
with Disabilities Act, and the district has fit its programs into the space, but it is not logical. For example, if a student receives IEP services, that student has to travel to a different space versus receiving it within the neighborhood of a grade level.
According to Martineau, there aren’t a lot of opportunities for small group work or breakout rooms or to build “a sense of community the way classrooms are organized.” Music and art rooms and the gymnasium aren’t designed for the programs of today, he said.
“So, what we’re trying to do with the decision in front of us today is balancing what we’ve learned over 25 to 30 years of the decisions that were made by our predecessors and trying to set the town up for continued success into the future,” Malinowski said.
According to MySouthborough, the building committee is considering three options — an addition and renovation for four grades, a brand new two-grade building and a new four-grade building.
According to Martineau, one of the reasons why the building committee is examining both the two grade and, in particular, a four grade option is because the district currently has redundant programs and services with the three buildings.
“But also, our faculty and staff and leadership team spend a lot of time welcoming new families and students into a new school, and then immediately the next year, they’re working on exiting and transitioning families to the next transition,” Martineau said.
He said the district would like to spend its time building longer lasting relationships with families and focusing on the mission and vision.
“We think a four-grade span really would help us use our time differently and maximize our resources,” he said.
The one option will then be submitted to the state.
For more information on the project, visit https://www.nearybuilding.com/ or signup at https://tinyurl.com/4u3wcf9z. Questions can be emailed to nbc@nsboro.k12.ma.us.
The meeting will be Aug. 12 at 6 p.m. in the Public Safety Building.
Julio’s Liquors
Tatnuck Bookseller & Café
The Neary Building Committee is currently considering three options for the school. (File Photo)
Willard House offers program about Mars
GRAFTON – The Willard House and Clock Museum and the Grafton Public Library will co-host “Journey to the Red Planet: A History of Scientific Missions to Mars + Stargazing Party.” The event was originally scheduled for Aug. 9, but it was postponed until Aug. 23.
This free and open-to-thepublic event is supported by the Webster First Federal
Credit Union. Guests are encouraged to register at: https:// graftonlibrary.libcal.com/ event/12483667
National Aeronautics and Space Administration/Jet Propulsion Laboratory Solar System Ambassador M.J. Johnson will highlight how the missions have transformed the understanding of Martian geology, climate and potential for life, with special emphasis
on the current “state of the art” as defined by the helicopter Ingenuity, which made history with its aerial exploration of the Red Planet.
The program will also consider the future of the ambitious Mars Sample Return mission, which aims to unlock unprecedented scientific discoveries by bringing the first Martian samples back to Earth.
“Few heavenly bodies have
captured our imagination as the red planet Mars,” said Johnson. “Its tantalizing proximity and geologic similarities to Earth, combined with the possibility that it may once have harbored life, have inspired an incredible array of scientific missions dating almost to the dawn of the space age.”
After Johnson’s non-technical talk, a lawn “star party,” hosted in partnership with the Aldrich Astronomical Society (AAS), will take place.
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
MARLBOROUGH – If you own and operate a motorized scooter or bicycle in the city, the Marlborough Police Department has some advice. Follow the rules and regulations, or risk getting fined. The department said it has received numerous complaints about motorized scooters (including pocket bikes and mini-motorcycles) and motorized bicycles operating erratically and on the sidewalk.
According to the city’s code, these scooters and bicycles:
• Are not to be operated by a person under 16 years of age.
• Are not to be operated in excess of 20 mph.
• Operators must have a valid driver’s license or learner’s permit.
• Operators shall have a right of way to use all public ways in the city, except limited access or express state highways where signs specifically prohibiting bicycles or scooters have been posted and shall be subject to all traffic laws and regulations of the commonwealth and/ or the city.
• Operators may keep to the right when passing a motor vehicle moving in the travel lane of the way.
• Operators shall signal by either hand the intention to stop or turn.
• A motorized bicycle or scooter may be operated on bicycle lanes adjacent to the various ways but shall be excluded from off-street recreational bicycle paths.
• Operators must wear a proper helmet or other headgear.
• No person shall operate a motorized bicycle or motorized scooter during the hours of darkness (before sunrise or after sunset).
• Motorized bicycles and scooters shall comply with all applicable federal vehicle safety standards.
A person convicted of a violation shall be punished by a noncriminal fine, as provided for within the city’s code, of not more than $25 for the first
offense; not less than $25 nor more than $50 for the second offense; and not less than $50 nor more than $100 for subsequent offenses committed.
The department said, “We will be taking enforcement action if you are operating a motorized scooter or motorized bicycle outside of the restrictions.”
For more information, visit http://www.mass.gov/rmv/ alerts/scooter.htm
“AAS members will be available to help navigate the starry night (weather permitting) and to share views of the heavens through their telescopes,” said the museum’s director of development, Robert Gierschick. “We had more than 160 participants last year, so register early.”
The presentation and party are appropriate for all ages.
Schedule of events
7 p.m. – Event open to public, tabletop displays, Q&A 7:30 p.m. – Presentation on” Journey to The Red Planet” 8:30 p.m. – Presentation Q&A
8:45 p.m. – Transition from presentation to outdoor stargazing
About the Aldrich Astronomical Society: https://www. aldrich.club/about-us/ About the Solar System Ambassador Program: https:// solarsystem.nasa.gov/ssa
For more information about the program, please contact Beverly Snow, program coordinator, at 508839-3500.
Follow Willard House on twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
The Grafton Public Library will also be on site with its expanded telescope loaner collection, and it will explain how to borrow the instruments. Astronomical resources, including books, magazines, movies, music and kits will be available for checkout to help families discover the beauty of the night sky for themselves.
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
Agró, Antonio of Shrewsbury Cipro, Patricia of Shrewsbury Cronin Jr., Timothy of Marlborough Dumphy, Father Charles of Shrewsbury’s Southgate Community
Ethier, Sister Norma a Sister of St. Anne Finn, Mary Lou of Hudson Gonzalez, Leonidas of Marlborough
Martin, Jesse of Northborough Mas Marques, Marybeth of Marlborough Maxwell, William of Marlborough McCarthy, Judith of Southborough McCoy, Janice formerly of Shrewsbury
Morin, Edward of Marlborough Sharon, Thomas formerly of Marlborough Swanfeldt, Kelly of Marlborough Therrien, William of Grafton Tobias, Andrea of Westborough Turick, Joseph formerly of Shrewsbury Turpin, Gordon of Shrewsbury
William E. Maxwell, 68
MARLBOROUGH - William
“Bill” Edward Maxwell, 68, of Marlborough, passed away peacefully Thursday, July 18th, 2024. Bill was born in Ashiya Japan, the son of William and Yayoi (Nakamichi) Meshach. He was raised in Blairstown New Jersey. During his time as an MS student, he contributed work on an early version of the Mars rover for NASA. He then met and married Clarissa “Clo” A. Orosz. Instead of keeping the family name Meshach, they decided on a fresh start by taking the name Maxwell. They shared over 35 years together raising their family.
Bill is survived by his two sons, Derrick Maxwell, his wife Kaitlin and their children, James, and Chloe of Maynard; Taylor Maxwell and his wife Ana of Worcester; and his pet cat Diego who is in Taylor’s care.
The Mercadante Funeral
Home & Chapel of Worcester assisted with arrangements.
Andrea Tobias, 72
WESTBOROUGH - Andrea Furmanek Tobias, resident of Westborough, Massachusetts, passed away on July 11th 2024 at the age of 72. She was a loving wife and mother, and her family was her greatest joy.
Andrea is survived by her husband, Lester Tobias; daughters Lauren and Julia Tobias; grandchildren Alden, Ezra, Molly, and Leo Walsh, and Maya, Nova, and Lilah Effron; and sisters Christine Feighery, Paula Jovien and Pamela Furmanek. We will miss her generous love, her genuine kindness, and her positive outlook on life.
A memorial service was held on July 23.
Timothy X. Cronin Jr., 78
MARLBOROUGH - Timothy X. Cronin, Jr., 78, of Marlborough, formerly of Wellesley and Cotuit, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 23, 2024 surrounded by family. Born in Boston in 1946 to Virginia and Timothy X. Cronin Sr., he was raised in Waban and Humarock.
Timmy is survived by his wife of 55 years, Patricia A (Noonan); three sons and daughter-in-laws: Tim and Anne Marie of Wellesley, Tom and Lauren of Wellesley, and Greg and Cori of Darien, CT; eight grandchildren: Hannah, Ty, Annie, John, Maggie, Caitlin, Molly and Grier, and; three brothers: Robert, Gregory and Richard. His brother Philip pre-deceased him. He is also survived by a large extended family of sisters and brothersin-law, nephews and nieces, extended family and friends. Visiting hours at the George F. Doherty & Sons Funeral Home, 477 Washington St., (Rt.16) Wellesley on Monday, August 12 from 8:30 – 10:30 am. Following that, a Funeral Mass will be celebrated in St John the Evangelist Church,
Wellesley Hills at 11:00am. Relatives and friends kindly invited. Private interment at Holyhood Cemetery, Brookline.
Judith A. McCarthy, 80
Scan QR code to read all of this week’s obituaries on our website.
ers, Luis A. Barrera Gonzalez and Oscar R. Barrera Gonzalez; three sisters, Gladys Mojarro and Elsa Barrera and Juventina Barrera; sixteen grandchildren and a great grandson; many nephews, nieces and cousins.
Jesse A. Martin, 42
SOUTHBOROUGH - Judith A. (DiGeronimo) McCarthy of Southborough passed away peacefully with her family by her side on July 20, 2024.
Beloved wife of Daniel F. McCarthy for 58 years. Loving daughter of the late Shirley F. (Grady) and Rocco J. DiGeronimo. Devoted mother of Kelly A. Furey and her husband Jonathan of Southborough, Tracy A. Perron and her husband Stephen of Shrewsbury, Daniel F. McCarthy and his wife Laura of Dover, NH, and Michael J. McCarthy of Shrewsbury. Loving grandmother of Kaitlin, Nicholas, Jack, Danny, Anthony, Abby, Sadie, and Annie. Sister of Michael J. DiGeronimo and his wife Sharon of Chester, NY, and Patricia D. Miccile and her husband Anthony of Framingham. She is survived by many cherished nieces and nephews too.
The John Everett & Sons Funeral Home at Natick Common assisted with arrangements.
Leonidas Barrera Gonzalez, 65
MARLBOROUGH - Leonidas Barrera Gonzalez, 65, of Marlborough died Monday while fishing in Portsmouth, Rhode Island. He was the husband of Blanca E. (Cambara) Barrera for the past 45 years.
He was born, raised and educated in Nueva Concepcion, Escuintla, Guatemala and was the son of Pedro Barrera and Dominga Gonzalez.
He leaves his wife Blanca E. Barrera; two sons, Leonardo A. Barrera and his wife Dominga and Jose L. Barrera; five daughters, Alcira V. Barrera, Monica R. Barrera and her husband Eliseo, Diana E. Barrera and her husband Fredy, Daisy D. Garcia and her husband Ronnie and Maria V. Barrera; two broth-
The Collins Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.
Sr. Norma Ethier, SSA, 92
MARLBOROUGH - Saturday, July 20, Sister Norma Ethier, (92) (Sister M. Martha) a Sister of St. Anne died at Alliance at Marie Esther, following a decline in health. Born in Pittsfield MA, Sister Norma was one of three children born to Benjamin W. Ethier, Sr. and Julia (Cuik) Ethier.
Sister Norma leaves to grieve her family of the Sisters of St. Anne, her niece Paula Grossi-DePoalo and grandnephews Ben and Paul Corriveau and their families and several cousins.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Collins Funeral Home of Marlborough.
Kelly Rose Swanfeldt,
57
MARLBOROUGh - Kelly Rose Swanfeldt, a longtime resident of Marlboro, MA and formerly of Hudson, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 27, 2024 at the age of 57, at UMass Memorial Hospital in Worcester, after a brief battle with cancer and diverticulitis.
Kelly is survived by her beloved husband, Richard (Rick) Swanfeldt, and her sisters: Christine Murphy and husband Jay of Sarasota, FL, and Sherril Morse of Sarasota, FL. Kelly was predeceased by her parents, Doris (Leger) and Gilbert Randall and her two nephews Matthew Holmes and Eric Swanfeldt, whom she loved dearly. Kelly will also be missed by many nieces, nephews, extended family and an incredible amount of friends.
Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of assisted with arrangements.
NORTHBOROUGH - Jesse A. Martin, 42, passed away on July 23, 2024, after a period of declining health. Born March 20,1982, in Framingham, MA, he spent most of his childhood in Northborough. He loved model trains and was an accomplished guitarist.
He leaves his mother, Marcia J. Martin and her husband, Jeffrey R. Ward, of Northborough, two brothers, Jason T. Martin of Shrewsbury and Joshua E. Martin of Tolland CT, two step-brothers, Christopher M. Ward of Boston, and Alexander J. Ward of Norwood, a daughter, Madeline MartinMills of Charlton, and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. He was predeceased by his father, Thomas A. Martin, in 1994.
Hays Funeral Home of Northborough assisted with arrangements.
Joseph Turick, 89
BOYLSTON - Joseph “Joe” Turick, 89, of Boylston, formerly of Shrewsbury, passed away following a brief illness on Sunday, July 28, 2024 in his home surrounded by his loving wife and family.
Joe is survived by his beautiful bride of 65 years, Lydia M. (Pisarchuk) Turick; their children, Joseph M. Turick and his wife Shannon of Monroe, NC; Mark J. Turick and his wife Pamela of Westport, MA, Lynn M. Gerrits and her husband Michael of Leominster, MA and Jeffrey S. Turick of Elk Rapids, MI; his grandchildren, Matthew Gerrits and his fiancé Maria Eklund of North Chesterfield, VA, Connor Gerrits of Leominster, MA, Katrina R. Turick of Westport, MA, Fiona Turick of Fall River, MA and Owen Turick of Elk Rapids, MI; also survived by a sister Elizabeth Handerhan of Port Reading, NJ; as well as several nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by a sister, Irene Croll. The Britton Funeral Home of Shrewsbury assisted with arrangements.
Obituaries | 22
LEGAL NOTICES
NORTHBOROUGH
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
NORTHBOROUGH ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
In accordance with the provisions of MGL Chapter 40A, Section 9, the Northborough Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, August 27, 2024 at 7pm, in Conference Room B, 2nd floor of Town Hall, to consider the petition of Domenic Vincenzino for a dimensional variance for placement of a pre-fabricated shed within the side yard setback and rear setback on the property located at 9 Valentine Road, Map 37, Parcel 104 in the Residential B Zoning District. This meeting will also be conducted via Zoom. To participate in the public comment portion of this meeting from a PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone, or Android device, please click this URL to join: https://town-northboroughma-us.zoom.us/j/84075375325 or join by phone: +1 646 876 9923 Webinar ID: 840 7537 5325 Passcode: 311390 Live Stream link YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ channel/UCRdBrw3HeEAMB_KFKasrgXA
This application can be viewed in the Planning Department during business hours or online at https://www.town.northborough.ma.us/zoning-board-appeals/pages/currently-under-review-zba.
Brad Blanchette, Clerk
WESTBOROUGH
LEGAL NOTICE FOR SPECIAL PERMIT HEARING
In accordance with the provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 40A, Section 9 and Sections 3.1 and 6.2 of the Town of Westborough Zoning Bylaw, the Westborough Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, August 20, 2024 at 6:30 PM on application record no. 24-02544, requesting a Special Permit and Site Plan Review for the conversation of seven hotel buildings residential apartments. The location of the proposed project is 25 Connector Road (Assessors Parcel ID’s 35-161-0), Westborough, MA, located in the Highway Business Zoning District. The owner and applicant for the filing is AVIA BOS Research Drive LLC.
The public hearing will be held in the Great Hall of the Forbes Municipal Building, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA. Please see the Calendar on the Town of Westborough Homepage (posted 48 hours prior to the public hearing) for additional information. To access the application and any submitted documents, please go to our online permitting system, PermitPro (https://westborough.patriotpermitpro.com/) and search the above referenced record number. Records are also available for review in the Westborough Planning Board Office at 45 West Main St., Westborough, MA during regular business hours.
Persons unable to attend may submit comments in writing to the Westborough Planning Board in advance of the public hearing.
WESTBOROUGH PLANNING BOARD
Hazel Nourse, Chair
SHREWSBURY
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
Disposition of Easement Interest in Real Property 20 Centech Boulevard, Shrewsbury, MA
Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30B, Section 16, and M.G.L. c. 40, Section 3, the Town of Shrewsbury (the “Town”) is soliciting proposals for the disposition by sale of a non-exclusive easement in Town-owned property located at 20 Centech Boulevard, Shrewsbury, MA, 01545 shown on the Town’s Assessor’s Map 48 as Parcel 0040000 (the “Property”).
By vote of the 2024 Shrewsbury Town Meeting, the Town’s Select Board is authorized to convey a non-exclusive easement for access over a portion of the Property, said easement area to consist of approximately 94,000 square feet, for the purposes of providing rights for vehicular and pedestrian access and egress and the rights to install, repair, and replace utilities to and from Centech Boulevard to property now or formerly owned by BT-Newyo, LLC, located at 414 – 428 Cherry Street, Shrewsbury, MA, and shown on the Town’s Assessor’s Map 55 as Parcel 001000, and to other property now or formerly of BTNewyo, LLC.
A complete copy of the Request for Proposals (“RFP”) containing additional information, including the submission requirements for a Proposal, is available at https:// shrewsburyma.gov/bids or the Office of the Town Manager, Town of Shrewsbury, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, or by calling (508) 841-8508 during business hours. Proposals must be submitted to the Town’s Office of the Town Manager by Tuesday, August 30, 2024, at 12:00 PM
The Town reserves the right to cancel this RFP or reject any or all proposals if it is determined to be in the public interest to do so. The RFP and supporting documentation do not constitute an offer or agreement to sell or convey the Property or an interest therein. Such an offer and agreement may result only from a duly adopted vote of the Select Board.
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
PUBLIC HEARINGS
RICHARD D. CARNEY MUNICIPAL OFFICE BUILDING 100 MAPLE AVENUE
SHREWSBURY, MA
August 26, 2024 6:30 PM
To hear the appeal of David Sorbaro, 100 Hillside Avenue, White Plains, NY 10603 for two Special Permits to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VI - Table I to continue operating an automotive repair and sales business upon property located at 287 Grafton Street in the Commercial Business zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 34 Plot 073000
August 26, 2024 6:30 PM
To hear the appeal of Michael Christopher of 377 Shrewsbury Street, Worcester, MA 01604, for a Variance to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII-Table II to build a deck forty and three tenths feet (40.3’) from the rear yard setback where fifty feet (50’) is required in the Residence B-2 upon property located at 5-2 Point Road in the Residence B-2 zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 52 Plot 055008.
August 26, 2024 6:30 PM
To hear the appeal of Donald O’Neil, 688 Pleasant Street Worcester, Massachusetts 01602 for two Variances and two Special Permits to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VI-Table I, Section VII.E to operate a gasoline service station with related uses including convenience store with drive thru window, and to construct two freestanding pylon signs fifteen (15’) feet from the front yard setback when fifty (50’) feet is required on property located at 193 Hartford Turnpike in the Limited Industrial District. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 52 Plot 000125.
August 26, 2024 6:30 PM
To hear the appeal of the Town of Shrewsbury for two Special Permits to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaws Section III.F & Section VI-Table I to build a new building adjacent to the existing Water Treatment Plant to house the new PFAS treatment system on property located at 45 Main Street in the Rural B and Aquifer Protection Overlay District. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 19 Plot 167000.
August 26, 2024 6:30 PM
To hear the appeal of Mihir Acharya, 8 Seneca Street for six Variances to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VI Table I and Section VII Table II to convert a a pre-existing nonconforming single family dwelling to a two family dwelling with a side yard setback thirteen (13’) feet where thirty
(30’) feet is required, a rear yard setback of thirty nine and four tenth (39.4’) where fifty (50’) feet is required, front yard setback of thirty one and two tenths (31.2’) feet when fifty (50’) feet is required, a lot area of thirteen thousand nine hundred (13,900) square feet when twenty thousand (20,000) square feet is required and the lot coverage percentage exceeds the maximum allowed of ten percent ( 10%) on property located at 8 Seneca Street in the Residence B-1 zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 29 Plot 192000. August 26, 2024 6:30 PM
To hear the appeal of Nathan Borges 23 Holly Tree Lane, Middleboro, MA 02346, for a Variance to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII-Table II to build an addition thirty feet (30’) from the rear yard setback where fifty feet (50’) is required in the Rural A upon property located at 27 Slocum Avenue in the Rural A zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 15 Plot 003007.
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice of Hearing - G.L. Chapter 131, s. 40
Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Deborah Szklarz, 15 Woodway Drive, Shrewsbury MA, has filed a Request for Determination of Applicability for the removal of 7 trees within the 100 ft. buffer zone of an Intermittent Stream at 15 Woodway Drive.
A public hearing will be held on the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, August 20, 2024, in the Selectman’s Room of Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.
SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION
COMMISSION
Kenneth Polito, Chairman
Obituaries | from page 21 Gordon J. Turpin, 89
SHREWSBURY - Gordon J. Turpin, 89, of Shrewsbury, MA, Wells, Maine and formerly of Worcester, MA, died on July 29, 2024 peacefully surrounded by his family. He was the husband of Eilyana Moynihan, who passed in 2006.
Turp leaves his seven children: John and his wife Karen of Hillsborough, North Carolina; Marybeth and her husband Jack Belsito of New York City; Tom and his wife Susan of Winchester, MA; Kathleen and her husband Paul O’Keefe of Worcester, MA; Michael and his wife Deborah of Shrewsbury, MA; Eilyana (Ann) and her husband John Rose of Milford, MA; and Margaret and her husband George Belsito of Shrewsbury, MA. He also leaves 15 grandchildren: Caroline and Patrick; Matthew, Kate, and Liza; Eileen, Kristen, and Elizabeth; Meghan and Kelly; Aiden; Matthew and Michael; and Molly and Thomas. He is survived by seven greatgrandchildren, many nieces and nephews, and his sister, Margaret Carrier of Westborough, MA. He was predeceased by his in-laws: Robert Carrier; Mary and Joseph Cox; Arthur and Jean Moynihan; and Patri-
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice of Hearing - G.L. Chapter 131, s. 40
Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Rahul Kasbekar, 133 Stoney Hill Road, Shrewsbury MA has filed a Notice of Intent for the construction of a home addition and deck within the 100 ft. buffer zone of a Bordering Vegetated Wetland at 133 Stoney Hill Road.
A public hearing will be held on the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, August 20, 2024, in the Selectman’s Room of Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.
SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION
COMMISSION
Kenneth Polito, Chairman
REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS
CONTRACTOR PREQUALIFICATIONS
The Shrewsbury Department of Public Works hereby requests qualifications from prospective General Contractors and SubContractors for the construction of the 7.0 million gallon per day (mgd) Home Farm Water Treatment Plant (WTP) upgrades for removal of PFAS, in accordance with M.G.L. C. 149, ss 44D¾. The project with an estimated construction cost of Sixteen million and five hundred thousand dollars ($16,500,000) includes the construction of the new water treatment plant, and upgrades at related facilities within 600 consecutive calendar days of the date fixed in the Notice to Proceed. Filed Sub-Bidder Categories for the project include Masonry ($1,300,000); Miscellaneous and Ornamental Iron ($100,000); Waterproofing, Dampproofing and Caulking ($175,000); Roofing and Flashing ($320,000); Painting ($260,000); Plumbing ($260,000); HVAC ($330,000); and Electrical ($1,750,000).
cia and Robert Mullins. The Athy Memorial Home of Worcester assisted with arrangements.
Marybeth Mas Marques, 63
MARLBOROUGH - Marybeth (Bulman) Mas Marques of Marlborough, formerly of Dorchester, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2024.
Beloved wife of Rick Mas Marques. Loving mother of Evan Bulman and his wife Nicole of Enfield, CT. Dear daughter of the late Betty and Edward Bulman. Cherished sister of Edward Bulman and his wife Linda of Hanover, Elaine Ippolito and her husband Al of Branford, CT, and Thomas Bulman and his wife Lillian of Newton. Marybeth is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.
The John J. O’Connor & Son Funeral Home of Dorchester assisted with arrangements.
Janice C. McCoy, 84
Wilton, CT - Janice C. (Selen) McCoy, 84, of Wilton, CT, formerly of Shrewsbury, died Sunday, July 28th, 2024 at Regional Hospice in Danbury, CT. She is predeceased by her
Prequalification is a prerequisite for bidding on the Project, which is anticipated to begin in Spring 2025 The Request for Qualifications (RFQ) may be obtained on or after July 24, 2024 through the offices of Tata & Howard, Inc. the Project Designer, by contacting Donatien Djero at Tata & Howard, Inc., by email to: ShrewsburyRFQ@tataandhoward.com or by phone (508) 449-4350 between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM E.S.T., Mondays through Fridays, except Holidays, prior to the submission deadline.
Statements of Qualifications (SOQ) shall be received by the Town of Shrewsbury at the Department of Public Works, 100 Maple Ave, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, Attention Daniel Rowley, until 2:00 PM E.S.T., on Wednesday, August 21, 2024.
Participation in the bidding phase of this Project will be limited to General Contractors and filed Sub-bidders who have submitted a SOQ (and required supporting documentation) in response to the RFQs and that have been deemed prequalified by the Town of Shrewsbury.
Any contractor seeking to be prequalified as both a General Contractor and Subcontractor for a particular filed subbid trade(s) is required to file separate responses to BOTH the RFQ issued to prospective General Contractors and the RFQ issued to prospective filed Subcontractors for this Project.
Additional required information regarding the Construction of the Home Farm Water Treatment Plant, including the prequalification evaluation criteria and the selection process, is included in the RFQ available to the interested General Contractors electronically by using the contact information set forth in this advertisement.
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
husband of 35 years, Francis J. McCoy, Jr.
She is survived by her two daughters, Victoria McCoyCosentino (Michael), of Wilton, CT, and Patricia Biddy (Keith), of Newmarket, NH; two grandchildren, Katherine and Brian Cosentino; her sisters Linda Divris and Wendy Babon, her brother John Selen, as well as nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.
The Britton-Shrewsbury Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
Antonio Agró, 93
SHREWSBURY - Antonio Agró, 93, of Shrewsbury, passed away peacefully with his loving family by his side on Saturday, July 27, 2024. The Agró family moved to Shrewsbury in 1999, where they were faithful members of Saint Mary’s Parish. Antonio leaves behind his beloved wife, Maria; their children, Charles J. Agró of Shrewsbury and Maria Teresa Gazaferi of Connecticut; two grandchildren Miranda of Connecticut and Ariana of Boston.
The Britton-Shrewsbury Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
COMMUNITY CLASSIFIED
Community Snapshot
George Fortier Jr., of Westborough, recently captured this photo of a bee. Do you have a photo you would like to be featured in the Community Advocate? Email it to news@communityadvocate.com.
COMMUNITY CLASSIFIED
COMMUNITY CLASSIFIEDS
Senior Development Engineer
University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Shrewsbury, MA
Play a lead role in application production support and is responsible for processing all incoming SSA daily files and the annual COLA files within the SSP system. Position is fixed based in Shrewsbury, MA; However, telecommuting from a home office location is allowed. To apply, send resumes to: jobsumms@umassmed.edu. Ref # 7054608
Sr. Product Manager
Sr. Product Manager. Bach. + 5 yrs. global medical device sales/marketing exp. to lead sales/marketing & product development of medical devices. Olympus America, Inc. F/T. Hybrid w/in Westborough, MA. 30% U.S. travel required. CV to OCArecruiting@olympus.com & Ref. Req#6667. No calls/agents. No visa sponsorship.
WWII tank demonstration at American Heritage Museum
HUDSON – The American Heritage Museum will be holding a World War II Tank Demonstration Weekend on Aug. 17 and 18.
During the event, visitors will be able to see some of the museum’s original World War II tanks, including the M4 Sherman, M24 Chaffee, M36 Jackson and several other rare military vehicles operating in a historical exhibition. Captivating historical narration will bring these machines to life, and there will be presentations for all ages on the development of tanks and World War II history.
— the American Heritage Museum, Historic Aviation Hangar and Classic Automobile Barn. Additionally, there will be tank driving and riding experiences available.
Additionally, re-enactors will have living history camps set up and share the stories of World War II battles. During the weekend all three museums will be open
Tickets cost $30 for adults, $25 for seniors and veterans and $20 for children between 3 and 16. Members, World War II and Korean War veterans and children under 3 can get in for free. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://www.americanheritagemuseum.org/event/ wwii-tank-demonstrationweekend-august-2024/.
BJ’s Wholesale Club, Inc. seeks Sr. Data Scientist in Marlborough, MA
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To place your Career Marketplace ad call Cindy at 508-366-5500
Prayer to ST. JUDE – May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, pray for us. St. Jude, worker of miracles, pray for us. St. Jude, the helper of the hopeless, pray for us. Say this nine times a day, for nine days and your prayers will be answered. It has never been known to fail. Publication is necessary. My prayers were and are being answered. ~ S.C.
The American Heritage Museum will be holding a tank demonstration on Aug. 17-18.
POLICE FIRE&
Shrewsbury mourns death of canine officer Hunter
By Evan Walsh Reporter
SHREWSBURY – About 100 community members gathered in front of the Shrewsbury Police Station on July 30 to honor Hunter, a 10-year-old German Shepherd who served as Shrewsbury’s canine officer.
Hunter passed away unexpectedly on July 18.
The procession, which carried Hunter’s ashes in the lead cruiser, was his “final farewell,” according to a post from the Shrewsbury Police Department on Facebook, and was meant to “honor his extraordinary sacrifice.” Dozens of police vehicles were involved in the procession, and a large American flag was hung in front of the Police Station.
Hunter was handled by Patrolman Chad Chysna and served the town of Shrewsbury for eight years, first joining the
department at 18 months old. Officers from around Central Mass., including some canine officers, could be seen at the Police Station.
“K9 Hunter was not only a skilled and courageous member of our police force but also a cherished companion to Officer
POLICE LOG
Westborough
Monday, July 22
12:09 p.m. W Main St. Larceny.
3:22 p.m. Arrested , Devin Michael Connolly, 41, of 100 Leoleis Dr., Marlborough, for op MV with license suspended, speeding/rate of speed exceeding posted limit.
3:42 p.m. W Main St. Fraud.
5:05 p.m. Rogers Rd. Accident – hit & run.
5:18 p.m. W Main St. Fraud.
Tuesday, July 23
2:37 p.m. Arrested, Patrick Hannifin, 21, of 285 Hancock St., Apt. 1502, Quincy, for straight warrant arrest, op MV with license suspended, no inspection sticker.
Sunday, July 28
4:22 p.m. Arrested , Shqiprim Haliti, 38, of 390 Belmont St., Worcester, for OUI-drugs, child endangerment while OUI, possess Class B drug.
5:31 p.m. Arrested , Maria Estella Rosales, 40, of 15 Willow St., Apt. 12, Westborough, on straight warrants, unlicensed operation of MV, no inspection sticker.
Grafton
Sunday, July 14
9:24 p.m. Upton St. Larceny/theft.
Monday, July 15
2:30 p.m. Providence Rd. B&E – past.
5:21 p.m. Providence Rd. Threatening.
Tuesday, July 16
7:50 p.m. Providence Rd. Larceny/theft.
Wednesday, July 17
10:35 a.m. Providence Rd. Harassment.
Thursday, July 18
10:35 a.m. Mass Pike W. Accident –personal injury.
2:26 p.m. providence Rd. Harassment.
11:09 p.m. Arrested , Luis Segundo
Soque Martinez, 37, of 26 Lodi St., Apt. 3, Worcester, for OUI-liquor or .08%, unlicensed operation of MV, leave scene of property damage, possess open container of alcohol in MV.
Friday, July 19
1:10 a.m. Samuel Dr. Fireworks.
10:27 a.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/ identity theft.
4:39 p.m. Providence Rd. Larceny/theft.
Saturday, July 20
8:43 p.m. Upton St. Threatening.
Shrewsbury
Sunday, July 21
9:05 a.m. Catalina Dr. Larceny.
Monday, July 22
11:17 a.m. Deergrass Rd. Illegal dumping.
Tuesday, July 23
11:06 a.m. Arrested, Dennis George Bergquist, 62, of 25 Ferncroft Rd., Shrewsbury, on warrant.
Wednesday, July 24
4:49 p.m. Castle Rd. Larceny. 5:17 p.m. Edgewater Ave. Vandalism.
Thursday, July 25
10:55 a.m. Old Salem Cir. Identity theft.
3:54 p.m. Keyes House Rd. Identity theft.
5:59 p.m. Arrested, Jonathan A. DeOliveira, 39, of 45 Liberty St., Marlbor-
Chysna, his family, and the entire Shrewsbury Police Department,” the department wrote in a separate Facebook post. “Together, they made countless contributions to our community, embodying the commitment and spirit of service that define our department.”
ough, for unregistered vehicle, possession Class B substance, possession Class E substance, op MV with license suspended/revoked.
Friday, July 26
4:28 p.m. Oak St. Dispute.
8:29 p.m. Boylston Cir. Accident with injury.
Saturday, July 27
4:33 a.m. Arrested, Melissa Martins, 30, of 14 Maple Ave., Apt. 4, Shrewsbury, for OUI liquor, number plate violation.
12:09 p.m. Lake St. Larceny.
7:29 p.m. Hartford Tpke. Assaults. Sunday, July 28
8:18 p.m. Bryant Ave. Dispute.
Southborough
Wednesday, July 17
5:30 p.m. Marlboro Rd. Larceny/forgery/ fraud.
Saturday, July 20
9:07 p.m. Dairy Farm Ln. Fireworks complaint.
Sunday, July 21
4:37 p.m. Valley Rd. Abandoned MV.
5:14 p.m. Darlene Dr. Burglary/B&E past.
Thursday, July 25
10:05 a.m. Boston Rd. Larceny.
Friday, July 26
5:50 p.m. Arrested, Krysta L. Soldi, of Phelps Rd., Framingham, for op MV with license suspended, possess Class B drug subsq. offse., marked lanes violation, unsafe operation of MV, speeding/ rate of speed exceeding posted limit.
Scan QR code to read this week’s police and fire news on our website.
Man pleads guilty to fatal hit-and-run
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – A Worcester man has pleaded guilty to a fatal hit-and-run in Shrewsbury.
In 2023, Jerry Santiago Jr. and Justina Riopelle, both of Worcester, were indicted by a grand jury. In October 2022, the Shrewsbury Police Department and State Police Detectives assigned to Worcester County District Attorney Joseph Early Jr.’s office responded to a hit-and-run on Route 9.
According to Early’s office, the victim — Ghufran Mutar, 20 — was crossing Route 9 at the intersection with South Street while she was one her way home at 10 p.m. after working at CVS when she was hit by a car. She was transported to UMass Memorial Medical Center where she later died of her injuries.
In January, Santiago pleaded guilty to motor vehicle homicide by reckless operation, leaving the scene of a personal injury crash resulting in death and unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. His charges of motor vehicle homicide by negligent operation and reckless operation of a motor vehicle were dismissed.
Saturday, July 27
2:04 a.m. Boston Rd. Threats investigation.
2:10 p.m. Boston Rd. Harassment complaint.
Sunday, July 28
6:32 a.m. Arrested , Weaver Oliveira Dias, of Boston Post Road E, Marlborough, on warrant.
12:57 p.m. Arrested, Nilo J. De Souza, of Newton St., Southborough, on warrant.
Marlborough
Wednesday, July 24
9:49 a.m. Arrested, Eyan David Scott, 25, of 77 Stacey Rd., Marlborough, on true warrant.
12:35 p.m. Sperry’s Liquors/Lincoln St. Trespassing.
Thursday, July 25
7:16 a.m. Arrested, Ethan A. Allinson, 23, of 39 Briarwood Ln., Apt. 8, Marlborough, for unlicensed operation of MV, fail to stop/yield.
4:53 p.m. Main St. Threats. Saturday, July 27
11:35 a.m. Broadmeadow Rd. Fraud/ forgery.
7:00 p.m. Fairmount St. Harassment. Sunday, July 28
2:25 p.m. Stone Gate Apartments/Saint
In court documents recommending his sentence, Santiago’s attorney wrote, “Mr. Santiago recognized the significant and irreversible harm that he has caused to the family and friends of the victim, having lost their young daughter and/or friend from his actions. He understands that the family and friends of the victim will suffer from his crimes for the remainder of their lives. Mr. Santiago understands that there is nothing he can do to repair the damage and pain and lost that he caused.”
His attorney wrote that Santiago is “extremely remorseful for his crimes, and he takes full responsible for them.”
“He is also hopeful that the resolution of this case can bring about some closure to the family and friends of the victim,” the attorney wrote. Santiago was sentenced to serve not less than four years but not more than six followed by two years of probation. He has credit for serving 441 days. Riopelle was charged with being an accessory after the fact.
Her case is still pending in Worcester County Superior Court. Her next appearance will be an evidentiary hearing on suppression on Sept. 24.
Ives Way. Larceny.
6:21 p.m. Zarape Restaurant/Maple St. Threats.
6:33 p.m. McDonald Hotel/Main St. Larceny.
7:14 p.m. Belmont St. Assault. Monday, July 29
9:15 a.m. Boys & Girls Club & Nursery/ Pleasant St. Trespassing. Tuesday, July 30
8:53 a.m. Lake Williams Condominiums (right side of building)/West Main St. Harassment.
6:38 p.m. Mineirao Market/BPRE. Larceny.
9:25 p.m. Stone Gate Apartments/Silver Leaf Way. Assault. Wednesday, July 31
2:50 p.m. Westminster Dr. Fraud/ forgery.
3:08 p.m. Baldwin Ave. Harassment. 6:29 p.m. Main/Bolton Sts. MVA with injuries.
7:03 p.m. Prospect St. Vandalism. Thursday, Aug. 1
11:01 a.m. Beach St. Harassment.
11:52 a.m. Stone Hill Rd. Fraud/forgery.
1:06 p.m. Fairmount St. Harassment order violation.
4:06 p.m. Red Spring Rd. Trespassing. 4:25 p.m. Slocumb Ln. Fraud/forgery.
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.
Police personnel from across Central Mass. gathered in front of the Shrewsbury Police Station July 30 to honor Hunter. (Photo/Evan Walsh)
COMMUNITY HISTORY
GRAFTON THEN NOW
By Kristen Remillard History Columnist
GRAFTON - A lot of our older veterans sit in silence about their experiences during war time. Someone you see before you today, who is old and frail and struggling with everyday tasks, was once young, full of strength and ready for battle. People go into war with so much pride in their hearts, and no matter what kind of trauma they go through, veterans leave the war zones with that same pride and hide their trauma. The Grafton Historical Society is responsible for collecting stories from the silent. We have the families to thank for documenting and sharing with us the stories of their loved ones who have served.
We know the basic details of wars over the years, such as World War II, but we do not know a lot about each individual who served during that time. Historians at the Grafton Historical Society and families of veterans dig deeper into who those local heroes really are. Many of these folks have unfortunately passed away, but if we have someone’s story on file at our museum, their legacy can carry on. Many of us at the museum are fortunate enough to have known or know veterans and the stories of these brave soldiers or their family members provided the museum with this information.
A story had recently caught my eye, as I personally knew the individual I was researching many years ago, while working at an assisted living facility. He and his wife were Lawrence (Larry) and Reta of Farnumsville (South Grafton). I have fond memories of the couple and their family, so reading about their lives in depth was extremely moving, as I did not know what they had been through. Larry and Reta married on August 28, 1937. They were both born on May 7, 1915, and delivered by the same doctor in Farnumsville.
The couple went through some terribly hard times but
remained incredibly loving, friendly and optimistic people. The file at the museum included letters Reta received while Larry was fighting the Battle of the Bulge and afterwards, from January to May of 1945. The letters indicated that Larry was missing in action, and then became a prisoner of war in Germany. You could only imagine Reta’s distress over her husband while caring for their young daughter back in Farnumsville, never knowing what was happening to her darling husband over in Germany. Thankfully Larry did eventually return to his family and he was honorably discharged from the Army in November of 1945. Larry would never speak of what he went through during his time as a prisoner of war until about 60 years later, when his granddaughter interviewed him for a college term paper. After learning of the horrors Larry had lived through, his family encouraged him to apply for the military benefits he had earned and was entitled to. Larry did not view himself as entitled to anything of that manner, but thankfully his family was able to convince him. Though he did not die in war, he paid the ultimate sacrifice with his suffering and
The World War II monument on Grafton Common honors all who served and names those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.
(Photo/Kristen Remillard)
trauma, which he carried with him silently for years and years.
When Larry and the family began to fill out the pages upon pages of application paperwork, their eyes filled with tears as Larry’s family listened to their loving and kind father and grandfather speak of the horrible treatment he endured as a prisoner of war. Just to name a few details, Larry and the other prisoners were forced to march through the snow for days, many of them frostbitten from the weather conditions that had to endure. They were malnourished and forced to dig holes for the bodies of the Jewish people who were experimented on and then murdered.
Having known this man myself, and having looked into his eyes, I cannot imagine that he had seen so much horror, as I find myself all these years later reading about it in a file at the museum in which I volunteer. How quickly after people pass we forget what they sacrificed for us. At the museum, I have come
across the names of men who went missing during time of war from Grafton who were forgotten until I have reached out to their family in attempt to learn more about who they are. Some of the younger members of the family were stunned to hear the story of their long lost relative. Then a conversation amongst the family about this veteran gets going and their name comes up again in family conversations.
Keeping history alive is not just about the first settlers of this land, it is also about what happened during your parents’ time, your grandparents’ time and even what you put behind you yesterday. Help us at the Grafton Historical society to keep these stories and your stories preserved and remembered forever.
A special thank you to the family of Reta and Larry for keeping their father’s legacy alive in their family and here in our museum. It’s been an absolute pleasure and an honor to learn more about our local heroes.
COMMUNITY SPORTS
Shrewsbury Post 397 beats Hudson to win American Legion state tournament
By Evan Walsh Reporter
WORCESTER – Post 397 plays for all the glitz and glory. But most importantly, the team plays for Frank Vaccaro.
Vaccaro, the longtime coach of Shrewsbury Post 397 affectionately known as “The Don,” is more than just a manager for this group of Post 397 players. In post-game interviews throughout the season, players have called him “everybody’s grandfather,” their “source of inspiration,” and a “great unifier.”
So, after Shrewsbury Post 397 won the Massachusetts American Legion tournament, defeating Hudson Post 100 in a mercy-rule-shortened 14-3 contest, it was natural that the team’s first instinct was to grab the water cooler, run to Vaccaro, and soak him in celebration. Vaccaro later proudly accepted the tournament trophy.
Vaccaro is a coach who fo-
cuses on making his athletes better people before better fielders — in an earlier interview with the Community Advocate, he professed that “baseball is life” — and as the team celebrated the state tour-
nament victory on August 1 at the College of the Holy Cross’ Fitton Field, it was evident that this team doesn’t just win for winning’s sake. After Vaccaro had a difficult year personally, Post 397 decided to rally
CHALLENGING GOLF FOR
Shrewsbury Post 397 charges the mound after winning. (Photo/ Evan Walsh)
Post 397’s captains this year.
The championship game
After winning the first four state tournament games, Shrewsbury Post 397 matched up against Zone 4 rival Hudson Post 100 in the championship game. Post 100 won the Zone 4 championship and competed in its first state tournament as a non-host this year, sporting a 24-7 record entering competition.
behind its coach.
“You want to die on the field for that guy every time you step on the field. He has faith in you all the time, leads the team, makes you feel like a good man,” said Tedy Cove, one of
Hudson was frequently a stone’s throw away from defeat throughout the state competition — Post 100 was one strike away from elimination in the tournament’s second round — but almost always managed to gut out the win. It looked as if the team might continue that pattern. Hudson briefly got the offense going in the third inning, attempting to erase an early 1-0 Shrewsbury lead. A Marshall Kehlhem walk,
Legion | 27
World-champion blind cricket team visits Shrewsbury
By Evan Walsh Reporter
SHREWSBURY – Shrewsbury recently welcomed members of the Indian Men’s Cricket Team for the Blind.
On July 26, the team visited Shrewsbury’s India Center, drawing a crowd of roughly 400 people. The team won the 2024 Samarth Championship for Blind Cricket, 227-137, in March.
“It was phenomenal. Their life stories — how they became blind, how they were neglected, how they focused on being good at the sport. The sport gives them an avenue in life that allows them to focus on what’s going on. Eventually, most of them became players and perfected it. The narration of the stories touched everyone’s hearts,” said Subu Kota, who supported the team’s trip to the U.S.
a Bobby Long Jr. double and Chase Donahue’s single helped Post 100 plate three runs and pull ahead 3-1.
But Hudson’s lead was short-lived. Shrewsbury’s bats exploded in the bottom of the inning, helping get seven runs across the plate. Back-to-back Post 397 batters were hit by pitches in the frame, and six consecutive Shrewsbury players reached base at one stretch.
“Give a lot of credit to them. It’s not easy to come out as a host and win five games and win a state championship … The teams that they beat — they’re no slouches. We had our fair share of comebacks, and in the last game, I think we just ran out of gas. We’ll take the next couple days and regroup,” said Hudson Head Coach Ryan Bowen.
Shrewsbury wasn’t done doing damage. Already sporting an 8-3 lead, Post 397 added six more in the fourth inning, making the game 14-3. JJ Ferguson and Jimmy Mitchell — the No. 1 and No. 2 hitters for Shrewsbury — went a combined 6-8 to fuel the offense, and the bottom three batters in Shrewsbury’s order totaled eight RBIs.
Mitchell — who earned tournament MVP honors — went 8-10 at the plate over the last three games of the tournament.
“I really think that [the of-
Blind cricket players use a plastic ball filled with ball bearings that create noise when moved. The players, who have varying degrees of blindness ranging from “partially sighted” to “completely blind,” throw the ball underhand.
“[The visit] was very, very happy. They were recognized and applauded. Some of the cricketers were sharing their stories – what a difference it has made in their lives, how happy they are now, how ca-
Members of the India Men’s Cricket Team for the Blind are on a tour throughout the U.S. The team visited Shrewsbury in July. (Photo/ Courtesy)
pable they feel now, the confidence they have,” said Founder of the Cricket Association for the Blind in India Dr. Mahantesh G. Kivadasannavar.
The visit was part of the team’s U.S. tour, which will continue until Sept. 17 and include trips to New York City, New Jersey, Chicago, Los Angeles and Seattle. The team visited the Carroll Center for the Blind after visiting Shrewsbury.
The tour raised funds for
fense picked up because] we had a week off after the zone playoffs, and we practiced hard for a week. We had hard practices, we played hard in this tournament. Down the stretch, we really started to play for Coach [Vaccaro]. We played for the team instead of playing for ourselves,” he told the Community Advocate.
Connor Herlihy, who pitched all five innings, was effective on the mound, allowing three hits and the three third-inning runs.
“I’m super happy. [Winning the state] was one of our goals from the beginning of the season. Coach told us that we had a great group of guys on the team — a great group of baseball players,” said Herlihy.
“He was gutsy. I’d say that he made this happen because of his adrenaline and guts to pitch,” Vaccaro said.
Samarthanam, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that operates worldwide. The group’s U.S. office is located on Route 20 in Northborough.
Started by Kivadasannavar, Samarthanam seeks to create “an inclusive society free from discrimination, where persons with disabilities become contributing members living with dignity and respect,” according
to a written statement from the organization.
“I want people to understand how every disabled or differently-abled person is able to reach their goals through sport. That’s why I want to spread the word around here in the U.S.,” said the president of the U.S. branch of Samarthanam Dr. Varavani J. Dwarki.
Both Post 397 and Post 100 advance to the Northeast Tournament, which will be played in Manchester, N.H., from Aug. 7 through 11.
Although Hudson’s state tournament run didn’t end as planned, Bowen expressed optimism: The Northeast Tournament is yet another chance to get out on the ballfield with his group of players.
“More days of baseball with the guys. This group — incredible is an understatement. To be able to go out on the field with these guys every day is incredible. We have at least two more games, and hopefully more than that,” said Bowen.
For Shrewsbury, no stranger to big-time games, the regional tournament is another opportunity to play for Vaccaro.
“It means the world [to play for Vaccaro],” said Cove. “He’s always got our backs.”
Legion | from page 26
Shrewsbury Post 397 celebrates winning the state championship. (Photo/ Evan Walsh)
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