SHREWSBURY – An error cut several weeks off the town’s MBTA zoning timeline, hastening the public comment process as Shrewsbury approaches a vote on the matter at Town Meeting on Nov. 18.
Town Manager Kevin Mizikar described the “error” during the Sept. 10 Select Board meeting.
On June 5, Shrewsbury sent its MBTA zoning plan to the state for pre-approval feedback. The state was expected to provide comments on the plan within 90 days. On July 19, the state requested Shrewsbury submit revised GIS mapMBTA | 4
Maselli votes against tabling
board reorg.
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor
NORTHBOROUGH – With a vote of 3-1 with one abstention, the Select Board voted to table its reorganization.
Select Board member Lisa Maselli was the lone vote against tabling the reorganization of the board with Julianne Hirsh abstaining.
Maselli said she has done research and looked at towns, including Northborough, and the Massachusetts Municipal Association, all of which say the board should rotate its chair every year.
“You rotate that because the board loses its continuity — it becomes one person doing all of the decision-making
First look at Golf Club costs – $7.3 to $8.2 million
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – There are now some preliminary numbers for proposals to either renovate or rebuild the Westborough Golf Club.
During the Municipal Building Committee meeting on Thursday, Sept. 12, representatives from BFE Architects presented possible costs for the two options.
For new construction, preliminary estimates total about $7.3 million. This would include design costs, demolition of the current building, contractor’s fee, insurance and bonds.
The costs are based on using prefabricated materials.
For renovation, the preliminary estimates would total about $8.2 million.
Committee Chair Al Gordon said he was concerned about the renovation op-
tion since it could involve change orders that could delay the project and increase costs.
BFE also presented information about hiring a consultant for a possible restaurant. The consultant would compile details about design fees, seating and finding any restaurant interested in using the space.
While committee members have yet to make a final decision on the options, they did decide to add an article to this fall’s Town Meeting warrant for funds to cover hiring an owner’s project manager and design costs.
The committee will next meet on Thursday, Sept. 26. At that meeting, BFE will present a wrapup on the feasibility study, including an update on costs, floor plans, etc.
Learn more about the options at https:// ma-westborough.civicplus.com/1219/ Westborough-Golf-Club-Building
Region remembers Sept. 11
Former Andrea Restaurant turning into car clubhouse Algonquin legend Richard “Dick” Walsh dies at 92 After
Members of the Municipal Building Committee view the renovation and reconstruction options for the Westborough Golf Club on Thursday, Sept. 12. (Photo/Maureen Sullivan)
By Evan Walsh Reporter
SHREWSBURY – What was once a vacant, unused parcel overcome with weeds has — thanks to the attention and volunteerism of a group of Shrewsbury residents – become one of the town’s most beautiful retreats, complete with flowers, trails and opportunities to connect with nature.
On Sept. 15, hundreds gathered at Prospect Park’s Garden of Sweet Remembrance to rediscover this gem in Shrewsbury Center and attend the first annual Art in Prospect Park event, which featured booths and artwork from local creators. All proceeds went toward rebuilding the garden’s pergola.
“It fills your heart. Oftentimes I’m working here on my own, doing my own gardening work, and people will come here and just thank me. That gives you so much back, when someone comes to us here and appreciates it. People are
so amazed at what a beautiful place it is. It’s not for naught — it gives back to the community,” said Brenda Goodwill, the master gardener who designed the space.
The event was inspired by Rose Wang, a Shrewsbury artist who recently underwent treatment for cancer. Famous in town for her watercolor portraits of Shrewsbury landmarks — including the Garden
of Sweet Remembrance — Wang often posts her artwork to Facebook for the town to see, and her work was available for purchase during the event at Prospect Park.
In addition to showcasing art, the event served as an opportunity to reintroduce the park to the community.
In the 1910s, the site featured sprawling gardens and a mansion built by Matthew
This group of volunteers helped reform Prospect Park and organized Saturday’s event.
(Photo/Evan Walsh)
Whittall; after Whittall died, a pergola was constructed in his memory. The land was briefly owned by the Masons before it became town property and most structures on the site were razed.
Much of the park was reclaimed by nature in the years following, until Bill Davis and Chris Kirk teamed up in 2003 to found the Friends of Prospect Park. The group worked
hard for the last two decades to restore the park for recreational use. The park was weeded and cleared several times, but despite the volunteers’ best efforts, the changes never quite had staying power.
“The garden was enveloped in vegetation. Overgrown. Vines climbing up every standing tree, strangling all the trees. Pretty blossoms, but it was killing everything else. My first reaction was, ‘Oh my God, it’s Jurassic Park.’ I was quite surprised by it,” Davis said.
With the help of Goodwill, a renewed effort to restore the park started in 2019. The design features over 1,000 plants, 80 percent of which were donated. Volunteers worked over 1,000 combined hours on the project.
“I just found this to be a beautiful, magical spot with so much potential. There was something special about it. I was drawn to it,” said Davis. “It affirms our vision of 20 years… It’s a real special spot, and we just hope everybody can come and enjoy it.”
NORTHBOROUGH – Community Advocate photographer Tami White captured the morning fog over Bartlett Pond in Northborough. The pond is being treated with chemicals to control the growth of nuisance aquatic vegetation. People should not use the pond water for irrigation until Oct. 18.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
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Westborough Fire Foundation plans kickoff party
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – A new foundation has been established to help the personnel and programs of the Westborough Fire Department.
A kickoff party for the Westborough Fire Foundation will take place on Sunday, Sept. 29, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Arturo’s on East Main Street.
Domenic Fabiano, owner/ chief of Arturo’s and a nonvoting member of the foundation, is donating the venue, staff and food for the event.
“It’s an opportunity to educate people” about the new organization, said Todd Alexander, president of the foundation.
It will also be a chance to meet Fire Chief Patrick Purcell and learn more about the department.
Tickets are $50 per person and include a complimentary drink and appetizers. There will also be a cash bar and silent auction, and a chance to watch the New England Patriots game.
Scan QR code to visit us on your mobile device.
Digestive Drinks
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. 32 South Street • Westborough, MA 01581 (508) 366-5500
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All proceeds will benefit the foundation, which is a 501c3 organization.
Purchase tickets online at www.westboroughfirefoundation.org, or send a check to Westborough Fire Foundation, 45 E. Main St., Suite 5, Westborough, MA 0151.
About the fire foundation
The foundation has been created to support the needs of Westborough Fire Department — to enhance health and safety for the members; provide life safety equipment to better serve the community; and provide opportunities to see that the department can provide the best training opportunities possible.
Purcell said that the Fire Department does much more than firefighting. Members conduct home safety programs; helps install child safety seats; train for rescue operations (especially the dive team); hold classes for firefighters in safety and wellness; and perform community outreach.
Digestive drinks, or digestifs, are beverages traditionally consumed after a meal to aid in digestion and provide a satisfying conclusion to dining. These drinks, often rich and aromatic, include a variety of spirits, liqueurs, fortified wines, and herbal infusions. Classic examples of digestifs are brandy, port, sherry, amaro, and herbal liqueurs like Fernet and Chartreuse. The concept of digestifs is rooted in centuries-old culinary traditions, particularly in European cultures, where they are valued for their ability to stimulate digestion and offer a relaxing end to the meal. Digestifs are typically enjoyed in small quantities, allowing diners to savor their complex flavors and aromas. This trend is evident in the expanding availability and variety of digestifs in bars and restaurants worldwide.
Although digestifs are often enjoyed as after-dinner drinks, they can be enjoyed throughout a meal, along with dessert or as a less-sweet substitute for the final course. At JULIO’S LIQUORS we are friendly, passionate, and knowledgeable about wines. Collectively, we have many decades of experience and knowledge to offer our customers. When you need a unique bottle of wine, stop by our store at 140 Turnpike Rd., Rt. 9 East PH: 508-366-1942
P.S. In part, digestifs’ resurgence in popularity can be attributed to an increased interest in holistic health practices that emphasize the importance of digestive wellness.
on WCRN AM830 every weekday at 7 pm after Howie Carr! You can also pick and choose episodes on Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.
Wreaths Across America to come to Northborough
NORTHBOROUGH – Wreaths Across America is coming to Northborough.
The Northboro Junior Woman’s Club, Boros Cares 4 Troops and Vincent F. Picard American Legion Post 234 will be hosting the organization on Dec. 14 at noon at Howard Street Cemetery.
Wreaths Across America is a nonprofit organization that was founded to continue and expand the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery that was begun by Morrill Worcester, who owns Worcester Wreath Company in Maine, in 1992. The mission of the organization is remember, honor and teach. Its mission is carried out in part every year by
coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies at thousands of veterans’ cemeteries in December.
The Northborough groups will host the event at the Howard Street Cemetery to raise awareness to Wreaths Across America’s mission.
If you would like to participate by purchasing a wreath or volunteering on the day to place a wreath, contact Susan Welton (swelton5679@verizon.net or Martha Michalewich (martha. michalewich@verizon.net).
For more information, visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/ MA0219.
MBTA zoning timeline tightens after error
ping files for where the town was planning to place MBTA zoning. Those files weren’t delivered to the state until roughly Aug. 24, Mizikar said.
“I certainly will take full responsibility for this error,” Mizikar said. “Given the importance of this matter, I could’ve communicated much more closely with the state during the pre-adoption review period. I’ve already contacted the [state], and will stay directly involved during [its] review period.”
After the state determined that Shrewsbury’s first MBTA zoning plan — which included Olde Shrewsbury Village — did not pass the two-step test to allow mandatory mixed-use, the town shifted its plan, moving the proposal westward on Route 20, and asked Town Meeting to evaluate the proposal in November instead of May.
The proposed zone is approximately 118 acres; Shrewsbury must zone for 1,497 potential housing units. The proposed zone includes Shrewsbury Commons, Emerald Run and 409 South St.
Shrewsbury likely won’t receive feedback from the state on its plan until Oct. 15, Mizikar said, creating a tight timeline between then and Town Meeting on Nov. 18. Still, Mizikar confirmed MBTA zoning will remain on the warrant.
He also announced three new Planning Board meetings where the public can participate — Oct. 17, Oct. 24 and Oct. 30.
The Select Board praised Mizikar for acting quickly to solve the problem and keeping the timeframe for Town Meeting intact.
“When an issue comes up, the first point is, ‘How do we fix it?’ That’s the most important thing. You’ve worked very quickly to not impact the ultimate date … It does not impact what we were looking to do in November, and that was important,” said Select Board Chair John Samia.
MBTA | from page 1
COMMUNITY BUSINESS
Kennedy’s Restaurant and Market serves up comfort food, community pride ‘Once
you enter those doors, you’re family’
By Evan Walsh Reporter
MARLBOROUGH – Patrons of Kennedy’s Restaurant & Market are greeted with open arms. Or, more specifically, an open hand.
“High Five” — a large sculpture that depicts the silhouette of an outstretched, high-fiveready hand – is located just outside the establishment in perfect position for motorists to see as they travel down Route 85. Unveiled in June with city and state leaders present, Kennedy’s gift of public artwork to the Marlborough community was in honor of the late Dennis Kennedy, who founded the restaurant in 1981.
Almost 50 years later, Kennedy’s is now managed by Michael Kennedy, Dennis Kennedy’s son, but the company’s philosophy has remained the same. Now a Marlborough staple, Kennedy’s is passionate about providing amazing food, quality service, and a comfortable, relaxing atmosphere. Family member Julie Doherty said, “Once you enter those doors, you’re family here.”
“We’ve had our customers grow with us. People have come as young couples, had children. Customers that were once in high chairs, now they’re bringing their children. That has been a fabulous feeling of community, and all of us here at Kennedy’s take a great amount of pride in being able to provide it to guests and community members,” she said.
“Generationally, we need these foundations to help build communities,” said Marlborough Economic Development Committee Hospitality Outreach Manager Lindsey Jaworek, describing Kennedy’s impact on the city. “When you have a place like Kennedy’s that’s home — a place to go and celebrate birthdays and anniversaries, or Thursday nights with grandma — it’s really important.”
In a space filled with comfortable booths and artwork from Marlborough Public School students, Kennedy’s serves a menu full of timetested recipes and great new specials. It’s mainly comfort food — clam chowder, chicken
supreme, sirloin tips — with fresh seafood options, salads, and an assortment of attractive appetizers, including pub popovers and boneless buffalo wings.
Kennedy’s also offers graband-go options at its market, which is managed by David Kennedy. The menu includes soups, sandwiches, and salads in addition to fresh seafood, meats and deli options. Looking for something quick? There’s also Kennedy’s Streetside, which serves lobster rolls,
onion rings, fish ‘n’ chips and other fare. And don’t forget dessert: Streetside makes phenomenal brownie, sugar-waffle, and popover sundaes.
“Our chefs are cooking with such passion. It’s as if they’re feeding their own family. If something doesn’t seem perfect, they will not let it go out. The customers are tasting that, and they’re getting a great experience,” said Business Development Leader Sharon Decker, who worked as a server at Kennedy’s for 26 years
Kennedy’s has become a Marlborough staple, serving customers everything from chicken supreme to lobster rolls.
(Photo/Courtesy)
before assuming her current role. “The expectation is that people leave almost shaking their heads, saying, ‘How does Kennedy’s do that?’ We want customers to feel welcomed and well-cared for.”
The restaurant also boasts a spacious, flower-filled outdoor patio, constructed during the pandemic. The space, complete with an outdoor bar, heaters, fans, water features and breathtaking landscaping, is the perfect place to unwind, relax, and enjoy good food and
the company of others. It’s a place that’s serene and social.
“It’s a wonderful part of my day when I’m working because customers are really in awe of the space. We call it our ‘secret garden patio.’ Customers say they’d have no idea they were sitting near Route 85. It’s secluded and beautiful. It invites people to stay, and we have entertainment a couple nights a week,” said Decker.
“We have a sense of pride, and we’re filled with gratitude. Grateful for our wonderful staff and the amazing people that support us,” said Michael Kennedy.
Kennedy’s Restaurant & Market is located at 247 Maple St. (Route 85) in Marlborough. For more information, visit https://www.kennedyspub. com or call 508-485-5800. The restaurant is open every day for lunch and dinner service (hours differ throughout the week), with breakfast on Sunday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Business Profiles are advertising features designed to provide information and background about Community Advocate advertisers.
Here’s where to celebrate Spirit of Shrewsbury
By Evan Walsh Reporter
SHREWSBURY – It’s that time of year. The Spirit of Shrewsbury Fall Festival returns to town for the 28th year next week. All Shrewsbury residents are invited — and encouraged — to come to the events and celebrate their town.
Here’s where to be: Shrewsbury Police Department’s Community Night (Sept. 25) – Though not an official Spirit of Shrewsbury event, the Shrewsbury Police Department’s Community Night has come to mark the start of Spirit of Shrewsbury weekend. The event is scheduled for Sept. 25 from 4 p.m.
to 7 p.m. at the Police Station. There will be live music, food trucks, station tours, face painting, comfort dogs, and a chance to explore police vehicles.
Scarecrows on the Common (Sept. 17 - Oct. 14) – What better way to welcome fall than Scarecrows on the Common? Sponsored by the Shrewsbury
Garden Club, residents can expect to see the scarecrows from Sept. 17 to Oct. 14. Individuals, groups, businesses and clubs are encouraged to display their scarecrows for all to enjoy.
Saint John’s vs. Shrewsbury Football (Sept. 27) – The most important game on both football programs’ schedules — sometimes called the “Battle
Live Life to the Fullest
Recognizing that retirement is a time to set new goals, learn new hobbies, and live life to the fullest, the Activities Program at New Horizons retirement community in Marlborough enhances the lives of our residents.
The program presents regular performances from pianists and dramatists, lectures and scholarly discussions, and painting and art classes. Stimulating trips to places such as local gardens, museums, and events are also arranged regularly.
Immediate availability, including three homecooked meals daily, starting at $2,400/month for one resident
of the ’Bury” — is scheduled to start Sept. 27 at 6:30 p.m. The Shrewsbury High School Colonials, who have won the last two rivalry games, will host the Saint John’s Pioneers. Spirit of Shrewsbury Fall Festival (Sept. 28) – This is the big day. Dozens of community groups will gather on Sept. 28 to celebrate Shrewsbury. Here are some of the day’s events, laid out by time. This year’s Spirit of Shrewsbury is being held at Saint John’s High School.
• Shrewsbury’s Got Talent (10 a.m.)
• District Art Show & Town Expo (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.)
• Face Painting (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.)
• Shrewsbury Media Connection: Live From St. John’s (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.)
• Shrewsbury High School Robotics Team 467 Demonstrations (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.)
• Animal Adventures (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.)
• Live National Anthem and Pie-Eating Contest (12 p.m.)
• Foam Fun Event (12 p.m. to 2 p.m.)
• Spirit of Shrewsbury Dog Show (1 p.m.)
• Fall Festival Seniors’ Luncheon (2:30 p.m.)
• Shrewsbury Sweetheart Pageant (6 p.m.)
Saint John’s vs. Shrewsbury Soccer (Sept. 28) – The town rivals will go head-to-head again on Sept. 28 — this time in soccer. The match is set to begin at Shrewsbury High School at 6 p.m. — head there after the festival!
Spirit of Shrewsbury Parade (Sept. 29) – The Spirit of Shrewsbury Parade returns on Sept. 29, and will stretch from Municipal Drive to Oak Middle School, where food trucks will be ready to serve parade-goers. The action starts at 1 p.m. The parade will feature a float competition, lots of music, dancers, walkers, sport teams, vintage vehicles and more.
This year’s grand marshals are Maria Smith and Frank Vaccaro.
For more information, visit https://www.shrewsburyfallfestival.org.
Maselli votes against tabling Select Board reorganization
Board | from page 1
and letting us know what he chooses or what she chooses to divulge,” she said. “It looks as though that’s kind of a general thing that happens in many of the boards that the chair stays on and then the chair and one other person kind of know what’s going on at the time, and the rest of the boards don’t necessarily know anything.
She continued, “And they feel, ‘why am I on a board if I’m not going to have any knowledge or any ability to add or create good for being in this seat and sitting here.’”
Background
Town Administrator Tim McInerney, who submitted his letter of resignation effective Oct. 16, contacted the board, recommending that it table the reorganization.
“Because I’m departing, I thought it would make an easier time for all of us to stay focused,” McInerney said Sept. 9.
Mitch Cohen has served as the chair of the board since his
election in 2022. At that point, Hirsh was elected vice chair and former member Kristen Wixted as clerk.
Following the election of 2023, which brought Maselli and Laura Ziton onto the board, Cohen was reelected chair with Wixted as vice chair and Ziton as clerk.
When Mike Tietjen joined the board in the spring, the Select Board was scheduled to reorganize on May 20. At that time, Hirsh moved to postpone reorganizing until the first meeting in September.
Hirsh said she thought that reorganizing during a new member’s first meeting did not seem to be “logical” until the members got to know each other. She also noted that the board wanted to have a goalsetting meeting.
“I think we’ll get to know our priorities more after that meeting or during that meeting. For those reasons, I think that it would be wise to postpone that decision,” said Hirsh.
In an email, Cohen said there
The Select Board recently discussed the reorganization of its leadership. (Photo/Laura Hayes)
is not a requirement in Northborough to rotate leadership positions, noting that the elected boards of the Northborough School Committee and Planning Board have had the same chairs for several years and the appointed boards have had chairs with longer tenures.
He said the only committee with a required turnover is the Regional School Committee, which has a contractual agreement to rotate the chair between Northborough and Southborough.
Conversation
Maselli said that when it is an “as needed” situation, then “why do you actually need the
board because we don’t get to discuss.” She said when things are asked to be placed on the agenda, they are told that it is not the right time or if it could be discussed in a few months.
“It’s been historic that it’s been like that. I just don’t think it’s as simple as just saying, ‘let’s pass over this’ or ‘we can’t manage because we’re going to have a new [town administrator] that we’re going to have,’” she said. “If we can’t manage, again, we don’t need to be a board. We just need one person to take care of it.”
Maselli said she didn’t think it was “fair” to jump into a motion without a discussion and “say that it’s gone on for three years in a position that should have been rotated last year as well as this year.”
McInerney said the other items he shares with Cohen — who he said then passes them on — are topics like fires or the server being down at Town Hall.
Ziton said she understood the importance of rotating chairs.
“This year with Tim leaving has definitely added some complexity. We didn’t know that was going to happen when this initially came about,” she said. “I think this is going to make it easier through the transition process, but I understand where you’re coming from.”
Cohen, who is up for reelection in May, said that if he returns to the board, he hoped another member would be interested in being chair.
“But I appreciate the confidence the chair has and I appreciate the complexity of the town administrator leaving and his request for some consistency throughout that process,” Cohen said.
With the approval from the board, Cohen said the reorganization would be postponed indefinitely until after the first meeting after the election, though members could bring it up under the “future agenda items” on the agenda and the board could decide whether to have it on the agenda.
MARLBOROUGH THEN NOW
By Linda Rennie History Columnist
MARLBOROUGH – The Williams Tavern located at the intersection of West Main Street and Williams Street was built in 1665 by Lieutenant Abraham Williams. The original building had 28 rooms plus several outbuildings, a large barn and three acres of land. The interior had many fireplaces with mantels having cheery inscriptions on them. Ten years after the tavern was opened it became a garrison and housed local soldiers as protection against the Native Americans.
In 1676 the tavern was burned to the ground when the Native Americans raided Marlborough during King Philip’s War. In 1677 Lieutenant Williams rebuilt the tavern and it was grander than the original structure. Williams kept it until
his death in 1712. His son had died, so it was passed to his grandson.
An interesting feature of the tavern was the cell room located in the basement. It was used to house prisoners being transported from Boston to New York. Before Marlborough became a city, part of the space of the tavern was utilized as a town courtroom and two additional brick cellar rooms were for the safekeeping of unruly offenders. It was also Marlborough’s first unofficial post office, as mail for the area of Northborough, Southborough, Westborough, and Hudson was left there to be picked up.
In 1756 George Washington visited the Williams Tavern on his way to Boston to meet with Governor Shipley about the French and Indian War. On July 2, 1775, Washington spent the night at the tavern. He was met with an honor guard and was escorted to where he took command of the American troops at the siege of Boston. On October 23, 1789, after becoming presi-
Brighten their day…
dent, Washington was hosted by Captain George Williams, the third owner of the tavern (the great-grandson of Abraham Williams). The president was met by United States Marshal of the Massachusetts District Jonathan Jackson, and they dined together at the tavern.
In 1772 the first stagecoach route between Boston and New York was instituted and the tavern was designated as the Marlborough stop. This journey took 14 days.
The Williams Tavern in its earlier days had the distinction of entertaining many historical figures, including the Marquis de Lafayette during the Revolutionary War. The French Duke of Rochefoucauld is another notable who spent time there.
After George Williams died the tavern went to his daughter, Catherine and her husband, Silas Gates. In 1822 Gates took down the tavern and replaced it with an inn that was known as Gates House. The inn was
passed on to his son Abraham Gates and then after Abraham’s death to his wife Elizabeth Brigham, who had her brotherin-law, Jabez Witherbee manage it. While Jabez was innkeeper stagecoaches gave the inn a prosperous income. However, it began to diminish as the railroads grew and people adopted this mode of transportation. Elizabeth, who still owned the Inn, married Deacon Stephen Phelps and after her death the inn passed to him.
When Deacon Phelps died in 1871, there was no specific mention concerning the tavern in his estate. In 1871 Walter Leighton purchased the property at auction for $4,200. During these years it was a family- run hotel. They also added a third floor, totaling the rooms to 36.
In 1884 Leighton sold the tavern to Henry Carr. Obscurity seems to have fallen over the Williams Tavern during the following years and the several owners who bought and sold the tavern. In 1916 Michael and
The Williams Tavern in Marlborough, shown here in 1900, served travelers through four centuries and hosted President George Washington and other luminaries.
Julia Williams of Boston were the owners of the tavern. They named it the Williams Inn Club. They modernized it and added a ballroom. They catered to automobile and weekend parties and ran the tavern until the early 1930s. They had great financial problems and in 1932 the Williams Inn Club went into tax title. The property was not redeemed until 1936 with new owner Joseph Jacobs.
There were several more owners and new management who attempted to revive the tavern, but the appeal of the old tavern was gone and the doors finally closed in 1938. The same year the city acquired the property for nonpayment of taxes. In 1942 at public auction, Mr. and Mrs. Augustus Seymour pur-
A ballroom was added to the Williams Tavern in Marlborough during the early 20th century. (Photos/ Courtesy of the Marlborough Historical Society)
chased it for $1,200. They had other property that adjoined the tavern.
The empty tavern was also damaged by vandals. Many citizens begged with the city to maintain it as a shrine, but it was leveled on April 11, 1947. The large chimney remained standing until 1969.
The front desk to the Williams Tavern is now housed at the home of the Marlborough Historical Society, the Peter Rice Homestead.
When the Williams Tavern was at its height there were few taverns in the region that surpassed it. All its proprietors catered to the traveling public and maintained the best place for rest and refreshment on the state highway. It is truly one of Marlborough’s lost treasures.
Westborough conducts annual 9/11 ceremony
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – On Wednesday, Sept. 11, police and fire personnel gathered to observe the 23rd anniversary of the terrorist attacks in New York City, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania.
The ceremony was held at the 9/11 memorial on the fire station grounds at Milk Street.
Fire Chief Patrick Purcell asked attendees to put aside the challenges of what was happening around them for one minute to honor those who died in these attacks.
Among the fatalities were Westborough residents Robin Kaplan and Linda George. They were among 17 employees of TJ Maxx who were on board American Airlines Flight 11 when it was hijacked then smashed into one of the Twin Towers in New York City.
As part of his remarks, Purcell quoted Sen. Ted Kennedy, “I wish that loved ones didn’t have to die too young. I wish
that tragedy never haunted a single soul. But to wish all that is to ask for an end to our humanity. God, family, and country sustain us all.”
The ceremony included a
fire bell that rang
5-5-5-5, and a moment of silence. Similar observances took place in Marlborough, Hudson, Southborough and Shrewsbury.
The 9/11 memorial on the grounds of the fire station on Milk Street.
(Photo/Maureen Sullivan)
Williams Tavern | from page 8
Seniors on the move
Senior centers are one of the most widely used services among older adults and are utilized daily. Offering more than card games, they can act as a gateway for accessing vital community services. They are available in thousands of communities and offer health, wellness, and fitness programs, transportation services, meals and nutrition information, social and recreational activities, trips, employment assistance, and public benefits counseling. Because older adults are at a higher risk for social isolation and malnutrition, the socialization aspect provided by senior centers can give older adults a higher quality of life, while meal programs are especially beneficial for many economically disadvantaged seniors. Most senior centers are for people age 50 and over.
Paladino, Director of Admissions
As you get older, you might start looking for services that help you with certain areas of life. Senior community centers may be the solution. There are somewhere between 10,000 and 15,000 senior activity centers in the US, offering local services to senior citizens nearby. At
NOTRE DAME LONG TERM CARE CENTER, we help residents maintain the best quality of life possible. To learn more, please call (508) 852-3011. You can also schedule a tour of our facilities at 559 Plantation Street.
P.S. Virtual activities and live streaming are available for seniors unable to leave their home.
MariAnn
Former Andrea Restaurant being transformed into car clubhouse
By Thomas Grillo Contributing Writer
SOUTHBOROUGH – After being abandoned for decades, the former Andrea Restaurant on Route 9 will be redeveloped into a clubhouse for car enthusiasts.
“Parkhaus” will include a climate-controlled 54,000-square-foot facility for car collectors, according to a filing with the Inspectional Services/Zoning Enforcement Department. In addition to the 32 individual automobile units sized from 854 to 1,100 square feet, the two-story property will include a workshop, offices, sitting areas, a bathroom and kitchen.
In 2021, Parkhaus 214 LLC, a division of Boston-based Transatlantic Investment Management Inc., purchased the shuttered restaurant and a nearby vacant office building at Parkerville Road for $1.25 million, according to the Worcester County Registry of Deeds.
Nadja Stratton, the project manager, did not return calls seeking comment.
Southborough Select Board Chair Kathryn Cook said while the board is pleased the eyesore will be revitalized, the panel would prefer to see more “viable” businesses come to
Southborough.
“I’m glad someone has bought it,” she said. “And I’m glad they are planning to do something with it.”
Still, Cook said with the recent closing of Tomasso Trattoria & Enoteca at The Crossings on Route 9, there’s even
more reason why the community needs a place to dine.
“Mauro’s Restaurant [on Main Street] closes at 3 p.m.,” she said. “I wish Andrea’s had remained as a nice restaurant.”
William Depietri, founder and president of Capital Group Properties, owner of The Crossings, said Tomasso’s ownership, which purchased the restaurant in 2019, had a tough going.
“It was bad timing with COVID-19 and it never really took off,” he said.
But Depietri said a new restaurant is slated to go into the space by year’s end. He declined to name the new tenant.
Economic Development Committee Chair Michael Nordstrom said Southborough needs business and cannot afford to be fussy about which ones.
“We have a crisis on our hands when it comes to the lack of commercial and retail uses,” he said. “The restaurant situation is terrible, there’s no grocer or even a boutique
grocery store, and residents must leave town for anything. I would be reluctant to say we’d rather some other kind of business unless we had alternatives.”
The Parkhaus project will not be built anytime soon as the developer has not applied for any permits.
In May, the LLC’s attorney requested a one year extension of the site plan approval to deal with septic issues. The Planning Board approved the request unanimously.
Stratton, who appeared before the Planning Board in May via Zoom, said the record rainfall this year has made the installation of a septic system challenging. But she said demolition of the two existing buildings should begin by year’s end.
At that meeting, Planning Board member Deborah DeMuria said the town is enthusiastic about getting the parcels redeveloped.
“We really want to see something there,” she said.
The former Andrea Restaurant will become the site of Parkhaus. (Photo/Thomas Grillo)
Budget
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor
NORTHBOROUGH – American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds have been allocated to address a shortfall for the dog park project.
Located at 150 Boundary Street, construction on the dog park began in July. The dog park will be a 1.2-acre fenced in facility divided into small and large dog areas with a pavilion straddling both sides. The surface of the play area will be made up of a combination of wood chips and compacted stone dust, and there will be a large partially-wooded play area. There will be a paved parking lot for 10 vehicles and an overflow lot.
As of the Sept. 9 Select Board meeting, the crews has installed the erosion control measures and cleared trees.
In the coming weeks and months, the crews will begin installing the fence, the water service connection to
Marlborough’s water main on boundary street, the binder course pavement for the parking lot and the concrete for the entrance.
“Lots of great things happening soon,” said Planning Director Laurie Connors. The workers will take a break over the winter, and they will resume once weather permits in the spring. The town anticipates that the dog park will open in May.
Shortfall
The town awarded the contract for the construction of the dog park to M.J. Cataldo for $585,352.32.
Connors noted that the project had two change orders. She said the town originally anticipated installing a well for the dog park, which would have cost about $40,000. However, as Marlborough is allowing the town to connect, Northborough will save about $12,800.
As part of the other change order, Connors said that they learned that the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection was going to require a change to the design of the stormwater management system after the project went out to bid. This will increase the project’s construction cost by over $40,000.
Additionally, the town has hired Weston & Sampson to provide construction oversight for about $32,400 and miscellaneous town costs, leading to a total construction cost of $656,094.
According to Connors, typically a construction project carries about 10% in contingency, but because of some of these unforeseen costs, the contingency for the project was about $5,000.
“So, we quickly blew through that,” she said.
The total funding for the project as of Sept. 9 was $621,452 with $250,000 coming from a construction grant
that the town had been awarded from the Stanton Foundation, $347,500 approved in Community Preservation Act funds and $20,000 available for consulting services in the Planning Department budget. There is a shortfall for the project around $34,642.
Connors outlined two options — decrease costs by changing to design such as postponing the installation of the pavilion or increase the funding for the project using ARPA funds. Specifically, $65,000 in ARPA funds was requested — $35,000 for the shortfall and $30,000 for contingency. If the contingency funds were not needed, it could be used for agility equipment, paving the overflow parking or a stone dust path through the woods that would be Americans with Disabilities Actaccessible.
Ultimately, the Select Board allocated $35,000 to address the shortfall with the understanding that the project could return in the future.
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Visit us today and see why Denny’s Liquor is your one-stop shop for all your beverage needs.
Crews have begun work on the dog park at 150 Boundary Street. (Photo/ Laura Hayes)
Packard Street Commons
62 Packard Street, Hudson, MA 01749
BRAND NEW AFFORDABLE HOUSING COMMUNITY OFFERING ONE, TWO & THREE BEDROOM APARTMENTS
*SMOKE FREE* PET FRIENDLY* ONSITE LAUNDRY* COMMUNTY ROOM *TWO & THREE BEDROOM TOWNHOMES & ELEVATOR ACCESSIBLE BUILDING WITH ONE, TWO & THREE BEDROOM ACCESSIBLE UNITS
Monthly Tenant Rents
3 One Bedroom Accessible CBH Direct Referral 30% Units, 3 Two Bedroom & 1 Three Bedroom are Homeless Preference 30% Units, 5 Two Bedroom 30% Units, 2 Two Bedroom 50% Units, 1 Three Bedroom 30% Unit, 1 Three Bedroom Accessible 50% Unit. See the website for details on preferences and set aside programs: www.packardstreetcommons.com. An applicable utility allowance based on bedroom size will be deducted from the rents above and is subject to change per EOHLC guidelines.
EXPECTED OCCUPANCY IN EARLY 2025
AMENITIES INCLUDE ON-SITE MANAGEMENT OFFICE, 24-HOUR EMERGENCY MAINTENANCE, OUTDOOR PATIO, 6 HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE UNITS, ELEVATOR ACCESSIBLE UNITS LOCATED IN MAIN BUILDING, 9 TWO AND THREE BEDROOM TOWNHOUSES, AVAILABLE ONSITE PARKING, ONSITE LAUNDRY, HEATING/CENTRAL AC AND HOTWATER ARE INCLUDED, CONVENIENT A CCESS TO DOWNTOWN HUDSON, INTERSTATE 495 & 290. INCOME LIMITS AND RENTAL RATES SUBJECT TO CHANGE. MOBILE VOUCHER HOLDERS ENCOURAGED TO APPLY. ALL APPLICANTS MUST MEET THE PROPERTY TENANT SELECTION PLAN CRITERIA. PREFERENCES AND SET ASIDE PROGRAMS APPLY. SEE WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION.
Applications
Lottery Application Deadline: Thursday, October 31, 2024
Application can be accessed online at: www.packardstreetcommons.com
To request an application be mailed to you, or if you or a family member has a disability or limited English proficiency, and as a result need assistance completing the application and/or require any assistance during the application process, please contact us:
Two Information Sessions will be held in person and via Zoom using the link on the website*
1.Wednesday, September 18th @ 6pm, Hudson Police Station Meeting Room, 911 Municipal Drive, Hudson, MA 01749
2. Saturday, September 28th @ 10am, Avidia Bank Community Room, 17 Pope Street, Hudson, MA 01749
*Information Session locations fully accessible, attendance not required for application
Paper Applications are available to be picked up at the Hudson Town Hall. All printed applications must be returned by mail o r in person to Maloney Properties Inc, 27 Mica Lane, Wellesley MA 02481 or by email no later than October 31, 2024 to packardstreetcommons@maloneyproperties.com.
Applications must be received or post marked by Thursday, October 31, 2024 to be included in the lottery. The lottery will be conducted by a third party electronic service provider Random.org. Applicants will be notified in advance of the lottery date, and it will be posted on the website.
For more information or if you or a family member has a disability or limited English proficiency, and as a result need assistance completing the application and/or require any assistance during the application process, please call 617-209-5460 / US Relay #711.
Shrewsbury
SHREWSBURY – Cornelius
Shea, a former Worcester school teacher and Marine Corps veteran, is running against incumbent Jim McGovern for the seat in the state’s 2nd Congressional District.
Shea is running as an independent against McGovern, who has represented the district since 1997.
He said he “has the precise type of education, workforce, and military experiences required for serving in Congress during this turbulent period in American history.”
The 66-year-old Shrewsbury resident said he still believes strongly in good citizenship and improving things.
“The Republican Party did
not field a candidate, so November’s election comes down to a choice between business as usual, or a fresh and reasonable approach to political discourse and decisions, which is what I offer local voters,” Shea said.
Shea graduated from St. John’s High School in Shrewsbury before earning a bachelor’s degree in political science
from St. Michael’s College then achieving a master’s degree in education from Fitchburg State. Shea followed that degree up with a master’s degree in urban education from Worcester’s Clark University, where he was named as the Jacob Hyatt Fellow.
As a young adult, Shea also enlisted in the Marine Corps, attending basic training at Parris Island, South Carolina, during the summer of 1978.
“As a retired major, I easily recall the oath I swore too — and that’s why I’m running for Congress,” he said.
Shea has been married to his wife, Deidre, for 33 years; they have three adult children and a granddaughter.
“We all love America, but right now I’m worried about her future. The shining city upon a hill has grown dim,” he said.
Shea believes most societal problems are self-inflicted: “I’m running for Congress because I believe I can do a better job achieving better outcomes. As an independent congressman, I will put country over party self-interests. Most of all, I’m committed to protecting the Constitution, securing the borders, and working on healing America for the benefit of our children and grandchildren, and generations to come.”
The election will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 5.
For additional information, please visit www.shea4congress.com
Hassanamisco
fair in Grafton
GRAFTON – The Hassanamisco Nipmucs will host a fair on Sunday, Oct. 13, at Phelps Athletic Field, 7 Jumbo’s Path, North Grafton.
Gates will open at 10 a.m.; grand entry at noon; closing ceremony at 4 p.m.
The event will include drums, dancing, indigenous crafts and vendors, food trucks, raffles and more.
All dancers are welcome. Drums are by Blackstone Valley Singers and Crow Hill.
Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for youths and elders (60 years of age and older), free for children under 7 years of age. No pets, drugs or alcohol.
Cornelius Shea (Courtesy Photo)
Westborough Library continues work on repair project
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – It’s been a hectic few weeks for Kate Coraccio as she adjusts to her new job as director of the Westborough Public Library.
She’s been meeting people, getting better acquainted with the staff, planning programs.
And then there’s the repair project.
During the annual open house on Friday, Sept. 6, Coraccio gave a brief update on the project’s status, including variances granted by the state, and a request for proposals on temporary space.
Recently, the Library Building Committee received a variance from the state’s Architectural Access Board for the front entrance, and the library will not be required to build a ramp and wheelchair elevator.
“That variance allows us to preserve the historic façade and entry of the 1908 building, and will also decrease our costs considerably,” said Ed Bald -
win, committee chair.
The variance will help trim about $590,000 from the budget, he said.
The state board granted another variance on accessible emergency egress routes; this will allow the library to install three areas of refuge with safe exits.
According to Baldwin, these
areas need to be large enough to accommodate two wheelchairs; be fire safe for two hours; have an emergency communications system to contact public safety; and have a route to an exit that public safety personnel can use to enter the building and rescue anyone in the refuge.
“The area at the top of the stairs from Parkman Street to
the main floor is already fire safe, and we will mark an area for wheelchairs and add a communications system there. We will also build two areas [for] refuge near the emergency exit stair in the back corner of the library,” said Baldwin. “The variance allows us to do this without widening any stairs or building ramps. Building the areas of refuge will increase our costs by approximately $120,000, which is a lot less expensive than it would be if we had to rework stairs/ramps, etc.”
Coraccio said that potential costs continue to be trimmed, in the hopes that Town Meeting will approve the project in March 2025.
The committee, library leadership and the town’s procurement officer are working toward a request for proposal for a temporary library once the project is approved and under way. According to Baldwin, the committee reviewed the draft of the request on Sept. 10; a final request for proposal
should be put out to bid in late September.
About the project
For the past several months, the library committee and library leadership have been working with the project’s design team on construction documents. Bids are expected to be announced around December 2024/January 2025, and they will be due and opened in time for the March 2025 Town Meeting. If approved, the construction work would begin soon afterward.
Current costs are around $15 million, which includes the documents and contingency costs for leasing space (if that becomes necessary).
The project would include installing additional toilets on the upper and lower floors; the moving of the teen room to the back of the main floor; and repairs/replacements of the roof and windows.
Learn more at https://www. westboroughlibrary.org/ about/repair-project/
How did you realize your fondness for senior fitness? I have always had a special connection with seniors, they have been the most rewarding to work with because they appreciate my passion for health & fitness as they are more focused on improving their everyday function to maintain their independence.
What inspires you about the residents in your programs?
Its really the ‘age is just a number’ attitude. They know their bodies continue to change as they age but they are so determined to work hard to be the best versions of themselves at this stage in their lives.
Is it fun to work with seniors?
Of course it is! This population has truly lived life so they have so much to teach us, if we just listen and observe how they use even a little progress as a sense of purpose to continue to motivate themselves.
Visitors to the annual open house at Westborough Public Library on Friday, Sept. 6, could get a peek at the proposed repair project. (Photo/Maureen Sullivan)
Shrewsbury community gathers
By Evan Walsh Reporter
SHREWSBURY – On Wednesday morning — the 23rd anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon — the Shrewsbury community gathered at the Police Station to remember the tragedy, pay homage to the victims and honor the first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice while trying
to rescue others.
According to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, the terrorist attack killed nearly 3,000 people from 90 nations: 2,753 people were killed in New York, 184 people were killed at the Pentagon, and 40 people were killed when Flight 93 crashed into a rural field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Close to 80,000 people have been diagnosed with physical and mental health conditions
as a result of the dust, debris, and traumatic events of 9/11, according to the World Trade Center Health Program.
“Suddenly death and destruction rained from the sky in a senseless act of terror. Many were lost that day in the attack. Many police, fire, and EMS made the supreme sacrifice in their effort to rescue those who were trapped in the upper floors of the towers. For those of us
Police
The
who served there, it seems like yesterday,” said chaplain Dick Martino, who spoke at Shrewsbury’s event.
Shrewsbury’s remembrance ceremony included a moment of silence, a reading of the Police Officer’s Prayer by Police Chief Kevin Anderson, and a reading of the Firefighter’s Prayer by Fire Chief Seth Colby. The event was attended by dozens of police personnel and town leaders,
who watched as the station’s flag was brought down to half-mast.
The Shrewsbury Police Station houses a piece of 9/11 history. A sculpture — made of a piece of steel obtained from the rubble of the World Trade Center — sits in front of the building. The sculpture was made by seven students from Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School and unveiled at last year’s ceremony.
Community Snapshot
SOUTHBOROUGH – Pam Bonaguide stands beside her work
“Bark Owl: A trailside tribute to Whitney Beals’ Legacy,” which was featured in this year’s Art on the Trails. Bonaguide spoke about her work during the closing ceremony on Sept. 15.
(Photo/Elizabeth Gros)
Left: The ceremony was held in front of this sculpture, which sits in front of the Shrewsbury
Station.
sculpture is made of a piece of steel obtained from the rubble of the World Trade Center.
Right: Police personnel participate in the 9/11 remembrance ceremony.
(Photos/Evan Walsh)
co
OPEN FOR BUSINESS
Over 40 members of the Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of Commerce of MetroWest volunteered for the Chamber’s Annual Community Service Day held on Friday, September 13th. Chamber members spent a morning at the Community Harvest Project at Prospect Hill Farm in Harvard and picked 8,000 pounds of apples, sorted them, and packed 62 boxes (2,480 pounds) to be distributed to local food hubs including the Worcester County
Food Bank. Following their hard work, the volunteers were treated to a delicious lunch donated by Salmon Health and Retirement.
Due to the generosity of the business community, the Chamber has supported our communities in many meaningful ways that include: awarded over $400,000 in scholarships to graduating high school seniors, $167,000 in mini-grants to educators in our schools K-12, donated over $9,000 in gift cards and financial contributions for young girls living in The Grafton House, donated over 52,000 items to our local food pantries, donated hundreds
of supplies and equipment to our local schools, and provided volunteers for Earth Day Clean-up, Community Reading Day, Financial Literacy Fairs, school advisory councils, and career days.
The Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of Commerce of MetroWest offers 60 programs and events a year. As the largest Chamber in the MetroWest region with well over 500 member businesses and organizations from Worcester to Boston, and Rhode Island, we are focused on helping our member businesses grow and thrive. To learn more about all the benefits of joining, visit www.corridornine.org.
9/25/2024 | 5TH ANNUAL LADIES
11/21/2024 | THE GREAT NETWORKING BASH, Great Wolf Lodge-New England, 4:30– 7:00 pm
pm
for more information or to register for events.
Assabet Valley Mastersingers names new general manager
NORTHBOROUGH – Assabet Valley Mastersingers (AVM) has announced the appointment of Mike Ring as its new general manager, effective Sept. 1.
Ring joins AVM with a distinguished background as both a pianist and a composer, with experience spanning classical and electronic music. His track record includes notable achievements in music and a strong reputation for his organizational, collaborative and interpersonal skills.
As the new general manager, Ring will bring a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the AVM administrative team. His oral and written communication abilities, combined with his deep passion and curiosity for the arts, will be instrumental in furthering the mission and vision of Assabet Valley Mastersingers.
“We are excited to welcome Mike Ring to our team,” said
Pat Keefe, executive board chair of Assabet Valley Mastersingers. “His diverse musical background and exceptional skill set will be invaluable as we continue to grow and engage with our community.”
For more information about Assabet Valley Mastersingers and upcoming events, please visit www.avmsingers.org, or contact Tricia Campero at tcampero@avmsingers.org.
GRAFTON – The Harvest Home 5K will return on Sunday, Nov. 3.
Join Community Harvest Project, 37 Wheeler Road, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. to celebrate another successful season of volunteer farming for hunger relief. The 18th annual Harvest Home Festival and 5K, features a 5K and kids fun run, an online auction and raffle, food and drink, a beer trailer, children’s activities, hay rides, a pumpkin trebuchet, local vendors, apple cannons and more.
The 5K course loops around
the farm fields, and showcases the beauty of the Grafton farm in the fall.
Check-in and day of registration will begin at 10:15 a.m.; the 5K will start at 11 a.m., followed by the kids fun run at 11:15 a.m.
Registration Fees: festival admission is included with 5K registration
• Before Sept. 25 - $25
• Sept. 26-Oct. 16 - $30
• Oct. 17-Nov. 4 - $35
• Day of - $40
• Kids (18 and under) $15 pre-
registration, $20 day of race Bib pickup and pre-checkin — Wednesday, Oct. 30, 10 a.m. to noon; Friday, Nov. 1, 4 to 6 p.m.
Visit www.communityharvest.org/events for more information about this year’s Harvest Home festival, including the schedule of events.
All proceeds support Community Harvest Project’s mission to engage and educate volunteers to grow fruits and vegetables for local hunger relief.
Tour historic barns with Shrewsbury Historical Society
SHREWSBURY – The Shrewsbury Historical Society will host a tour of two historic barns on Saturday, Sept. 28.
Tour participants will gather at the 1830 Brick School to board the free shuttle to the sites.
Enjoy a rare opportunity to step inside the historic General Artemas Ward House Museum Barn to view 18th- and 19th century agricultural architecture.
Learn about who owned the barn and why it is so big. Ward family farm tools and vehicles will be on display.
Then travel to another iconic New England barn, built in 1805, located at Hyemeadow Farm. This landmark gives us a glimpse of the past and the present. Once used for farming and housing livestock, it now serves as a gathering place, woodshop
and art studio.
Hourlong tours depart from the 1830 Brick School at 1, 2 and 3 p.m., returning to the 1830 Brick School.
No walk-up admission or parking available at either barn.
Online reservations are required in advance at https:// www.signupgenius.com/ go/20F0549A4AA2AAA851058246-falling
Mike Ring
COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
Number of homeless students in Shrewsbury falls
By Evan Walsh Reporter
SHREWSBURY – Shrewsbury
Public Schools is currently educating 18 students who live in an emergency shelter in town, according to a presentation from Superintendent Joe Sawyer to the School Committee on Sept. 11.
Since May 2023 — when an emergency shelter first opened in town — the district has been responsible for educating the homeless students.
“In my estimation, our schools have done an outstanding job responding to the unique needs of these students and families since that time, and this is continuing in this new school year,” Sawyer wrote in a memo to the School Committee, adding at the meeting that he is “proud of the work that our district has done to serve the needs of those students and families.”
Last year, Shrewsbury ed-
ucated between 51 and 57 homeless students, according to Sawyer. However, due to a change in the shelter’s location in August, “a significant number of the students whom the shelter served last year have moved on to permanent housing” in other communities, according to Sawyer’s memo.
Twelve of the 18 students from the shelter are attending Maj. Howard W. Beal Elementary School. The number of students may increase slightly as the shelter fills several unoccupied rooms, said Sawyer. Eight other students who live at the shelter are being transported to their “school of origin,” which is another district where they might have started schooling. According to the McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Act, students are entitled to remain in a district, even if they’ve found shelter in another community. Shrewsbury shares the cost
with the “district of origin” to transport these students.
Shrewsbury is the “district of origin” for four homeless students who have since found shelter in another community but are being transported back to Shrewsbury to attend classes. Eight other homeless students are not in the shelter system and are
currently living with other families in town. The district is responsible for 38 total homeless students.
Shrewsbury will continue to receive state aid to support homeless students, according to Sawyer, amounting to $104 per day per student (or roughly $337,000 for 18 students).
Last year, the district received
$931,632 in aid. After spending the funds conservatively, it has $437,000 left over.
Those funds are expected to be used to aid the students by providing English language education teachers, interpreters and translation services, paraprofessionals, support from Shrewsbury Youth and Family Services, and more.
Marlborough starts school year with fewer students
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
MARLBOROUGH – Despite a decrease in the number of students enrolled, the space crunch continues at Marlborough Public Schools.
During the School Committee meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 10, Superintendent Mary Murphy presented the district enrollment for the 2024-2025 school year.
As of Sept. 4, there were 4,773 students enrolled districtwide — a bit lower than then 4,990 students in the system last year.
At the elementary level, some schools also report lower numbers than last year. For example, Jaworek Elementary School has 639 students enrolled, almost 50 students below last year.
At Kane Elementary, however, enrollment is at 581 stu-
dents – 31 students more than last year.
“Kane is out of space,” said Murphy.
At the other elementary schools, Goodnow is about the same as last year (797 enrolled in 2024, one fewer than in 2023-24) and Richer has 575 students this year — 22 students fewer than last year. Whitcomb Middle School has 963 students enrolled this
School year | 20
School Committee prepares for Proposition 2 1/2 override
By Sarah Freedman Contributing Writer
HUDSON – As Superintendent Brian Reagan noted at the Sept. 10 School Committee meeting, hurdle number one was crossed with the Select Board’s vote to place a Proposition 2 1/2 override question on the May Town Meeting warrant.
“So I’ve been fielding emails and some calls from parents about … where can we help with the cause, which is very much appreciated,” he said. “And, I’ve been telling them: ‘Let’s just get through this first step.’”
It is important to respect the process, Reagan said, and think about how to organize the budget effort on their end. He has met with the teacher’s union, who are “ready to help.”
“There are certain communities that have had successful overrides in the past few years,” said Reagan. “I’m already in contact with superintendents from those districts. Just ask how we set those coalitions up and, you know, how they organized.”
Reagan said they “don’t have to recreate the wheel,” but just have a
plan that they can model the next steps after. In addition, Finance Director Dan Gale has experience with a successful passage of an override in Grafton and has shared the draft of the override with him.
School Committee Chair Steven Smith said he reached out to the Massachusetts Association of School Committees, and they will present to the committee on Oct. 22 about the school committee’s role in an override and the “dos and don’ts.”
He said, “That could even be beneficial for parents to attend to understand what’s in our purview with School Committee members and what isn’t.”
School Committee member Marcia Mitchell noted that it would be a good idea to have a special committee for community outreach to last for at least this year.
In new business, the School Committee approved several grants from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, including $320,530 to be used in Farley, Mulready and Quinn Middle schools and $799,394 for use in all Hudson schools for the Special Education IDEA grant.
Westborough honors Jackman as Employee of the Year
WESTBOROUGH – Dana Jackman, lead mechanic with the Department of Public Works, has been named the Town of Westborough Employee of the Year for 2023-24.
The announcement was made during the Select Board meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 10.
Those selected as employee excellence winners are awarded an extra day of personal time. Jackman received the award for February.
For earning the Employee of the Year award, Jackman received a citation and a gift card. He will mark 40 years with the DPW this December.
This was the citation for Jackman when he was selected Employee of the Month: “Dana has been working tirelessly to
ensure all the DPW equipment is repaired and maintained. With the age of the equipment and daily stress put on the aged equipment, Dana often has his hands full with repairs.
“When snow operations are under way, Dana is always at the DPW ready to manage any equipment failures or issues that arise. He is one of the first people in and the last to leave. His commitment to the DPW and his professional skills minimize downtime so operations can run smoothly.
“Dana is always professional and approachable to everyone who has a question or a concern about their equipment, and he always gives an explanation in laymen’s terms.
Marlborough starts school year with fewer students
School year | from page 19
September, while Marlborough High School has 969.
Backpack donations
Hundreds of MPS students started the new school year with brand-new backpacks and supplies, thanks to various donors.
David DePaula, a former student and son of Whitcomb Middle School’s administrative assistant, Pollyana DePaula,
raised $8,000, enough for 300 backpacks with supplies. The backpacks will be distributed to elementary, middle and high school students in need.
Another 50 backpacks were donated by Henry Schein.
First Congregational Church donated 78 backpacks, with supplies, in memory of Katy Mahoney. These will be distributed through the Wrap Around Service program.
Arcade Shoe keeps leather in good repair
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – It’s a Thursday morning inside Arcade Shoe.
The space at 3 W. Main St. is surrounded by more than five decades’ worth of leather, shoes, boots, accessories and equipment.
In the middle, with just enough room to move around, Bill Horne cut some excess leather from a pair of shoes.
There’s plenty to keep Horne company — his work, his customers, a radio and TV (when there are no customers around), and a stuffed raccoon dubbed Charlie. It stands on an upper shelf, with a grand view of the front door.
Horne said that when kids visit the store, they often ask about Charlie.
For the adults, Charlie may be a curiosity, but they’re in the shop to get repairs on everything from boots and shoes to leather bags — even kilts.
Just about anything with a piece of leather will find its way to Arcade Shoe, one of the few remaining repair facilities in the area.
Horne remembered when there were three shops in town, and more than a dozen in Worcester. Most of those shops have closed, as it’s becoming harder to find those willing to take over the business.
Horne himself has employed
part-timers and trainees, but these days he usually works alone.
“It’s hard, dirty work,” he said. “You have to enjoy it.”
Horne got into shoe repair around 1972, just after he left the Army.
“I didn’t know what I wanted to do,” said Horne.
He began helping his grandfather, Sam Korneblum. His first job? Shining shoes.
Bill Horne has been repairing boots, shoes and leather accessories out of his shop, Arcade Shoe at 3 W. Main St., Westborough, for more than 50 years. (Photo/ Maureen Sullivan)
“There were three stands just outside the store,” he said. For a 50-cent shine, he’d often get a tip of 25 or 50 cents.
It was a Saturday routine, he said, when folks would get ready for the weekend, or church the following day.
“Those were the days when people dressed up for church,” he said.
When Korneblum fell ill, Horne bought him out. It’s been
his shop ever since.
Even though he’s in his 80s, Horne has no plans on retiring.
“I’ve never regretted it,” he said. “There’s always plenty to do.”
The work goes beyond shoes and boots. These days, Horne can be found working on kilts, handbags, designer goods — just about anything with a piece of leather on it.
His latest projects — creating a bag out of a pair of men’s pants, and making a set of immobilizers for the New England Center for Children in Southborough.
“I make a lot of these,” he said of the immobilizers, which are worn around the arms and legs of autistic students to keep them from hurting themselves.
Arcade Shoe is open Wednesdays through Saturdays from 7 a.m. to noon. In addition to repairs, the shop offers a line of accessories, including polishes, cleaners and shoe trees.
For information, call 508756-1352.
POLICE FIRE&
Car carrier rollover causes delays on Route 9
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – A roll -
over of a car carrier at Route 9 westbound by Lyman Street caused delays all the way back to Route 495 on Wednesday, Sept. 11.
The accident took place in the late morning; a portion of Route 9 between Lyman Street and the Dolan & Mahoney Insurance Agency was down to one lane.
As of 1 p.m., the vehicles were being removed from the carrier.
Lunch-time traffic along Route 9 westbound was slowed due to a car carrier rollover near Lyman Street. (Photo/Maureen
Sullivan)
Court documents detail assault in Watson Park
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor
NORTHBOROUGH – Court documents detail an alleged sexual assault at Watson Park in Northborough.
Walter Laskos, 70, of Grafton has been charged with indecent assalt and battery on a person over 14. According to the statement of facts filed in Westborough District Court, police were dispatched to Watson Park at 4:35 p.m. Sept. 8 following the
report of a sexual assault.
The victim told police that he was going for a walk at the park after going to the gym. The victim walked on the trail to an area that overlooks the water when Laskos allegedly entered the trail and walked toward him.
According to court documents, Laskos grabbed the victim’s genitals, and the victim became upset and chased him out of the trail. Laskos left the park, and the victim gave his description to officers.
A dispatcher told police that the Westborough Police Department stopped his vehicle near West Main and Nourse streets. Laskos admitted to being at Watson Park, but he denied grabbing the victim, according to court documents.
Laskos was arraigned on Sept. 9 and released on his own recognizance with the condition of staying away from the victim.
He will return to court on Oct. 24.
trees/wires/debris.
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.
Northborough
Friday, Sept. 6
8:49 a.m. Maple St. Hit and run.
10:19 a.m. Davis St./Indian Meadow Dr. Criminal complaint.
11:19 a.m. West Main/Lincoln Sts. Accident: P.D.
2:37 p.m. West Main St. Scams.
6:44 p.m. Main St. Fraud.
Saturday, Sept. 7
6:23 a.m. West Main St./Shrewsbury. Animal calls.
11:16 a.m. Winn Ter. Animal calls.
Sunday, Sept. 8
4:58 p.m. Arrested , Joacyr Lopes
Dias, 65, of 224 W Main St., Apt. 5, Marlborough, for unlicensed operation
of MV, negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08%, marked lanes violation.
5:02 p.m. Arrested , Walter Joseph Laskos, 70, of 37 Luka Dr., Grafton, for indecent A&B on person 14 or over.
Tuesday, Sept. 10
3:52 p.m. Crestwood Dr. Keep the peace.
Wednesday, Sept. 11
11:30 a.m. School St. Vandalism.
1:53 p.m. Church St./I-290 Hwy. Accident: P.I.
6:11 p.m. Collins Rd. Criminal complaint.
Thursday, Sept. 12
8:03 a.m. Church/Crawford Sts. Accident: P.D.
4:15 p.m. Southwest Cut/Davis St. Accident: P.D.
8:47 p.m. Crestwood Dr. Accident: P.D.
Shrewsbury
Friday, Sept. 6
9:38 a.m. Worthington Ave. Identity theft.
11:33 a.m. Brookway Dr. Animal complaint.
2:04 p.m. Minuteman Way. Animal complaint.
2:06 p.m. Sheryl Dr. Larceny by check.
3:22 p.m. Hancock St. Identity theft.
3:25 p.m. Longfellow Rd. Identity theft.
4:32 p.m. Arrested , Kevin Robert Montalvo, 34, of 49 S Sturbridge Rd., Apt. 1B/3, Charlton, for op MV with license suspended, uninsured MV/trailer, unregistered vehicle.
8:09 p.m. Jill Cir. Dispute.
8:42 p.m. Arrested, Roberthy Rocha, 20, of 61 Lake St., Shrewsbury, on warrant.
Saturday, Sept. 7
6:26 a.m. Main St. Animal complaint.
10:06 a.m. Boston Tpke. Road hazard – trees/wires/debris.
10:27 a.m. Sheridan Dr. Hit and run accident.
3:09 p.m. Grafton St. Identity theft.
4:31 p.m. Clinton St. Dispute.
6:58 p.m. Boston Tpke. Dispute.
8:37 p.m. Boston Tpke. Road hazard –trees/wires/debris.
Sunday, Sept. 8
7:08 a.m. Hunter Cir. Road hazard –
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7:28 a.m. Boston Tpke. Animal complaint.
4:09 p.m. Deerfield Rd. Larceny. Monday, Sept. 9
1:11 a.m. Commons Dr. Dispute.
8:29 a.m. Plainfield Ave. Animal complaint.
8:48 a.m. South St. Vandalism.
8:59 a.m. Colonial Way. Larceny.
10:06 a.m. Old Brook Rd. Animal complaint.
10:24 a.m. Main St. Animal complaint.
1:11 p.m. Wesleyan St. B&E residential.
2:08 p.m. School St. Larceny.
3:44 p.m. Westview Ave. Identity theft.
5:31 p.m. Boston Tpke. Road hazard –trees/wires/debris.
7:30 p.m. Arrested, Cristiano L. Santos, of School St., Westborough, for MV lights violation, op MV with license suspended.
Friday, Aug. 30
7:17 a.m. Arrested, Sandra L. Burris, of Mill Street Central, Marlborough, for trespass.
8:30 a.m. Clifford St. Larceny/forgery/ fraud.
12:12 p.m. Woodland Rd. Trespassing notice.
4:17 p.m. Arrested, John A. Guerrero, of Broad Acres Farm Rd., Medway, for no inspection sticker, op MV with license suspended.
Saturday, Aug. 31
12:41 a.m. Arrested , David H. Do Amaral, of Bolton St., Marlborough, for OUI-liquor or .08%, fail to stop/yield, negligent operation of motor vehicle, speeding/rate of speed exceeding posted limit.
11:30 a.m. Breakneck Hill Rd. Abandoned MV.
7:49 p.m. Main St. Noise investigation.
Sunday, Sept. 1
12:23 a.m. Arrested, Dilan A. Gualpaz Rueda, of Framingham Rd., Marlborough, on warrant.
12:17 p.m. Atwood St./Richards Rd. Community police service.
1:13 p.m. Pine Hill Rd. Animal complaint. Monday, Sept. 2
11:13 a.m. Madison Pl. Threats investigation.
Tuesday, Sept. 3
7:32 a.m. Main St./Parkerville Rd. Animal complaint.
9:36 a.m. Cordaville Rd. Harassment complaint.
10:35 a.m. David Henry Gardner Ln. Harassment complaint.
2:44 a.m. Arrested, Bruno S. Sousa, of Chestnut St., Marlborough, for marked lanes violation, speeding/rate of speed exceeding posted limit, OUI-liquor of .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle.
3:15 a.m. Arrested, Juan Moreno, of Farm Rd., Marlborough, for number plate violation, op MV with license suspended.
11:44 p.m. Arrested, Lucas A. De Santi, of Beaver St., Framingham, for number plate violation, unlicensed operation of MV, fail to wear seat belt, no inspection sticker, warrant.
Westborough
Friday, Aug. 30
12:40 a.m. Eli Whitney St. Extra patrols/ house checks.
12:48 a.m. Olde Hickory Path. Extra patrols/house checks.
8:38 a.m. Bowman St. Extra patrols/ house checks.
9:21 a.m. Eli Whitney St. Extra patrols/ house checks.
LEGAL NOTICES
Kingsbury Street, Wellesley, MA 02481 for
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SHREWSBURY
LEGAL NOTICE
The Shrewsbury Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday evening, October 3, 2024 at 7:00 PM, in the Selectboard’s Hearing Room at the Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, to hear the application of Norman Hill, 214 Worcester Street, North Grafton, MA 01536 for Site Plan Approval by the Planning Board as required by the Town of Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII.F.3 and Subsection N.3 and two (2) Special Permits as required by Sections N.3.b.11 and N.7.c for horizontal mixed use and multiple buildings on a single lot, for the reconstruction of a building for a restaurant as shown on plans entitled, “Restaurant Site Redevelopment” dated August 16, 2024; prepared by land Planning Inc., 214 Worcester Street, North Grafton, MA 01536, stamped by Norman G. Hill PE, PLS., consisting of twelve (12) pages. The subject project is located at 299 Hartford Turnpike on the northern side of Hartford Turnpike and west of Grafton Street, within the Route 20 Overlay District and consists in whole or in part of Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 53, Plot 0050000.
A copy of the application, plans, and reports may be seen in the Office of the Planning and Economic Development Department at the Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA, and on the Planning Board website at www.shrewsburyma. gov/ongoing-projects.
SHREWSBURY PLANNING BOARD
Julie Holstrom, Clerk
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY
ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
PUBLIC HEARINGS
RICHARD D. CARNEY MUNICIPAL OFFICE BUILDING
100 MAPLE AVENUE
SHREWSBURY, MA
September 30, 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.
September 30, 2024 6:30 PM
To hear the appeal of Joshua Lee Smith, 311 Main Street, Worcester, MA 01608 for two Variances to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaws Section VII.E.4.d; and Section VII.E.5.f to remove the existing four (4) pylon signs and replace them with a single pylon sign thirty eight and six tenths feet (38.6’) tall for both the 571 Boston Turnpike and the 537-550 Boston Turnpike that will exceed the allowed 35 feet and advertise business on multiple lots on property located at 571 Boston Turnpike in the Commercial Business zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 34 Plot 024001.
September 30, 2024 6:30 PM
To hear the appeal of Dean Sokos, 123 Maple Ave Rutland, MA 01543 for a Special Permit to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaws Section IV.B to build a deck thirty two and nine tenths (32.9’) feet from the rear yard setback on a pre-existing non-conforming dwelling on property located at 26 Fairlawn Circle in the Residence B-2 zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 39 Plot 125000.
September 30, 2024 6:30 PM
To hear the appeal of Luishun Lau, 77
a Variance to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaws Section VII.D to provide fewer parking spaces than required by the bylaw on property located at 288 Boston Turnpike in the Limited Business zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 32 Plot 507000.
Peter Mulcahy, Clerk
REQUEST FOR QUOTATIONS
In accordance with MGL c. 149 the Town of Shrewsbury is seeking quotations from Massachusetts licensed asbestos abatement contractors to perform Removal of Asbestos Materials at 835 Main Street, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.
Specifications are available at the Public Buildings Department, Municipal Office Building 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, Monday through Friday 8:00am to 4:30pm or available online at https://shrewsburyma.gov/bids.aspx
Quotations must be submitted on the form provided and will be received at the Public Buildings Office until 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 3, 2024. Quotation Forms may be e-mailed to kbaldinger@ shrewsburyma.gov
Please contact me with any questions.
Keith R. Baldinger
Assistant Town Manager - Operations
SECTION 00 11 13 ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
MAPLE-ROLFE FORCEMAIN REPLACEMENT PROJECT
Town of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts
Sealed bids for construction of the Maple Avenue and Rolfe Avenue Pump Station Forcemain Replacement Project, 2024PS03, CWSRF No. 12483 Town of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, will be received at the Town Managers Office, Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts 01545 until 10:00am prevailing time, on October 18, 2024. Said bids will be publicly opened and read aloud in the Selectboard’s Room, 1st floor, Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, 01545.
The scope of work includes construction of approximately 5,620 linear feet of 18inch fused HDPE sewer force main and appurtenances.
Bid Security in the form of a bid bond, cash, certified check, treasurer’s or cashier’s check payable to the Owner, is required in the amount of five percent of the bid, in accordance with Section 00 21 13, INSTRUCTIONS TO BIDDERS
The Instructions to Bidders, Form of General Bid, Agreement, Plans, Specifications, Performance and Payment Bond, and other Contract Documents may be examined at the following: Accent Printing, Inc., 99 Chelmsford Road, North Billerica, Massachusetts
Contract Documents may be viewed and downloaded as a Portable Document Format (PDF) file free of charge at www. accentblueprints.com. Copies may be obtained for a fee by completing an order online or by calling 978-362-8038 for each set. Completed orders may be picked up at the office of Accent Printing located at 99 Chelmsford Road, North Billerica, MA 01862 (978-362-8038), from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Copies may also be shipped to prospective bidders for an additional charge to cover handling and mailing fees. All payments for printing and shipping are nonrefundable. For addition to the project plan holder’s list to guarantee receipt of addenda, it is recommended interested bidders obtain the Contract Documents directly from Accent. Interested bidders will be prompted to register an email address with Accent to access the documents.
The selected contractor shall furnish a performance bond and a payment bond in amount at least equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the contract price as stipulated in Section 00 72 00 GENERAL CONDITIONS of these specifications.
Contractors must be MassDOT prequalified in the following Class(es) of Work: Sewer with a minimum MassDOT Single Class of Work Limit of $3,036,000.00 Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) goals are applicable to the total dollars paid to the construction contract. The goals for this project are a minimum of 4.20 percent D/MBE participation and 4.50 percent D/WBE participation by certified DBEs. The two low Bidders shall submit completed DBE forms (EEO-DEP-190C, EEO-DEP-191C and the DBE Certification of United States Citizenship form) by the close of business on the third business day after bid opening. Failure to comply with the requirements of this paragraph may be deemed to render a proposal nonresponsive. No waiver of any provision of this section will be granted unless approved by the Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP).
This project is funded in part by the Massachusetts Clean Water Trust (the “Trust”).
All bids for this project are subject to applicable bidding laws of Massachusetts, including General Laws Chapter 30, Section 39M as amended.
Prevailing Wage Rates as determined by the Director of the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development under the provisions of the Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 149, Section 26 to 27H, as amended, apply to this project. It is the responsibility of the Bidder, before bid opening, to request if necessary, any additional information on Prevailing Wage Rates for those trades people who may be employed for the proposed work under this contract.
By submission of a bid, the Bidder agrees that this bid shall be good and may not be withdrawn for a period of 30 days, Saturdays, Sundays and legal holidays excluded after the opening of bids.
This project requires compliance with Massachusetts Diesel Retrofit Program [MDRP] by use of after-engine emission controls that are EPA certified, or their equivalent, on at least 100% of the off-road [non-registered] diesel vehicles/equipment used at the job site.
The Owner reserves the right to waive any informalities in bids and to reject any or all bids.
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY
Kevin Mizikar Town Manager
SECTION 00 11 13 ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
MAPLE-ROLFE PUMP STATION REPLACEMENT PROJECT
Sealed bids for construction of Maple Avenue and Rolfe Avenue Pump Station Replacement Project, 2024-PS02, CWSRF No. 12483 for the Town of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, will be received at the Town Managers Office, Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts 01545 until 11:00am prevailing time, on October 18, 2024. Said bids will be publicly opened and read aloud in the Selectboard’s Room, 1st floor, Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, 01545.
The scope of work includes demolition of the existing electrical equipment, HV, pumps, piping, valves and controls; new wastewater pumps; new electrical equipment, new HV equipment, modifications to the instrumentation & control panels; new electrical wiring, conduit and panels, and appurtenant site work and grading at two pump station sites.
General Contractor’s CATEGORY OF CERTIFICATION: PUMPING STATION
Filed sub bids for the trades in Item 2 in Section 00 41 13 FORM OF GENERAL BID shall be addressed to the Town Manager of Shrewsbury and endorsed to identify its contents and will be received at the Town Managers Office, Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts 01545 until 11:00am prevailing time, on October 8, 2024 at which time and place said bids will be publicly opened and read aloud.
Bid security for all general bidders and sub bidders in the form of a bid bond, cash,
certified check, treasurer’s or cashier’s check, payable to the Owner, is required in the amount of 5 percent of the total bid, in accordance with the conditions in Section 00 21 13 INSTRUCTIONS TO BIDDERS.
SUB BIDS
Item Sub-bid Specification Section
2a ELECTRICAL Division 26
2b MISC AND ORNAMENTAL IRON Division 5
2c ROOFING AND FLASHING Division 7
2d PLUMBING Division 22
2e HVAC Division 23
2f PAINTING 09 90 00
The Instructions to Bidders, Form of General Bid, Agreement, Plans, Specifications, Performance and Payment Bond, and other Contract Documents may be examined at the following: Accent Printing, Inc., 99 Chelmsford Road, North Billerica, Massachusetts Contract Documents may be viewed and downloaded as a Portable Document Format (PDF) file free of charge at www. accentblueprints.com. Copies may be obtained for a fee by completing an order online or by calling 978-362-8038 for each set. Completed orders may be picked up at the office of Accent Printing located at 99 Chelmsford Road, North Billerica, MA 01862 (978-362-8038), from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Copies may also be shipped to prospective bidders for an additional charge to cover handling and mailing fees. All payments for printing and shipping are nonrefundable. For addition to the project plan holder’s list to guarantee receipt of addenda, it is recommended interested bidders obtain the Contract Documents directly from Accent. Interested bidders will be prompted to register an email address with Accent to access the documents.
The selected contractor shall furnish a performance bond and a payment bond in amount at least equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the contract price as stipulated in Section 00 72 00 GENERAL CONDITIONS of these specifications.
General Contractors shall file their bids with a copy of the certificate from Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance (DCAMM) showing that they are eligible to bid on projects of this category, of this estimated project dollar amount and up to an aggregate limit, and with an Update Statement, DCAM Form CQ3]and Certificate of Eligibility, DCAM Form CQ7.
Subcontractors shall file with their subbids a copy of their DCAMM Certificate of Eligibility and Sub-Bidders Update Statement.
Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) goals are applicable to the total dollars paid to the construction contract. The goals for this project are a minimum of 4.20 percent D/MBE participation and 4.50 percent D/WBE participation by certified DBEs. The two low Bidders shall submit completed DBE forms (EEO-DEP-190C, EEO-DEP-191C and the DBE Certification of United States Citizenship form) by the close of business on the third business day after bid opening. Failure to comply with the requirements of this paragraph may be deemed to render a proposal nonresponsive. No waiver of any provision of this section will be granted unless approved by the Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP).
A Non-Mandatory Prebid Conference will be held on 11:00am prevailing time, on September 19, 2024 at the Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts 01545. Any request for interpretation of plans and specifications may be submitted in writing at that time. Bidders will have an opportunity to view the site of the work following the Prebid Conference. This project is funded in part by the Massachusetts Clean Water Trust (the “Trust”).
All bids for this project are subject to applicable bidding laws of Massachusetts, including General Laws Chapter 149, Sec-
tion 44A to 44J inclusive, as amended. Prevailing Wage Rates as determined by the Director of the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development under the provisions of the Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 149, Section 26 to 27H, as amended, apply to this project. It is the responsibility of the Bidder, before bid opening, to request if necessary, any additional information on Prevailing Wage Rates for those trades people who may be employed for the proposed work under this contract.
By submission of a bid, the Bidder agrees that this bid shall be good and may not be withdrawn for a period of 30 days, Saturdays, Sundays and legal holidays excluded after the opening of bids.
The Owner reserves the right to waive any informalities in bids and to reject any or all bids.
This project requires compliance with Massachusetts Diesel Retrofit Program [MDRP] by use of after-engine emission controls that are EPA certified, or their equivalent, on at least 100% of the off-road [non-registered] diesel vehicles/equipment used at the job site.
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY
Kevin Mizikar
Town Manager
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY PUBLIC HEARING
Notice is hereby given that Kader Kapadia, on behalf of Kaparia Café, LLC, d/b/a MOTW Coffee and Pastries, 378 Maple Avenue, Unit 3108, has applied to the Select Board for a Common Victualler License. The proposed hours of operation are Sunday 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Monday through Thursday 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Friday 7:00 AM to 1:00 AM, and Saturday 9:00 AM to 1:00 AM.
A public hearing on this application will be held on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, 7:05 PM, Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, Selectmen’s Meeting Room, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury.
John R. Samia
Chair
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY HIGHWAY DIVISION SNOW PLOW CONTRACTORS WANTED
The Town of Shrewsbury Highway Division is seeking snowplow contractors for the 2024-2025 winter season. Operators and equipment must be available for the entire winter season on a 24 hour a day basis and will be responsible for plowing specific routes within the Town. Hourly rates will be based on the width of plow and gross vehicle rating of the equipment furnished. The Town will be accepting applications until October 31, 2024 at 3:00 PM. This request for contractors is exempt from typical procurement procedures under M.G.L. Ch. 30B § 1(b) (17).
For additional information, contact the Shrewsbury Highway Division Office, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury or call (508) 841-8513.
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY
Kevin Mizikar
Town Manager
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice is hereby given pursuant to the provision of M.G.L. c 255 Section 39A that on October 23, 2024, the following vehicles will be sold at a private sale to satisfy our garage keeper’s lien thereof for towing, storage & notices of sale. To be sold at Belsito Auto 245 SW Cutoff Worcester MA.
COMMUNITY CLASSIFIED
Ryan celebrates 50th anniversary at Harry’s
WESTBOROUGH – Harry’s Restaurant is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its general manager Sue Ryan.
In a press release, the restaurant said as she celebrates this milestone, her journey “is a testament to her extraordinary commitment and love for her craft.”
After joining Harry’s in 1974, her role evolved over the years from a server in her early days to her later position as the general manager. Ryan has been a cornerstone of the restaurant with a deep understanding of the restaurant and an ability to adapt to change.
Her innate love of cooking and her creativity in the kitchen does not go unnoticed. Ryan loves to experiment with new recipes and dishes and introduce innovative ideas that captivate the patrons and keep the menu fresh. She has the ability to blend classic comfort food with a contemporary flair, which has become the hallmark of Harry’s.
The restaurant praised her ability to memorize the names
and preferences of their regulars “along with her warm and engaging presence makes her a cherished par of many person milestones for our patrons.”
“Sue’s story is one of growth, unwavering dedication, excellence and an enduring passion for her work,” the restaurant wrote. “Sue’s 50 years at Harry’s is proof of the power of perseverance and the enduring impact of a dedicated heart. The entire Harry’s family and its patrons celebrate the legacy of an exceptional individual.”
2:54 p.m. Ruggles St. Fire, wires down. 5:31 p.m. W Main St. Accident property damage.
5:49 p.m. Ruggles St./Harrison Ave. Road/tree.
10:21 p.m. Turnpike Rd. Trespass tow. Saturday, Aug. 31
1:15 a.m. Olde Hickory Path. Extra patrols/house checks.
8:01 a.m. Edmund Brigham Way. Fire, structure.
11:55 a.m. Arrested , Saul Gordillo Montanez, 27, of 32 Cottage St., Apt. 3, Chelsea, for unlicensed operation of MV, fail to stop/yield, straight warrant, receive stolen property +$1200, and Sebastian Montoya, 24, of 400 Bremen St., Apt. 1, E Boston, for receive stolen property +$1200, default warrant, conspiracy.
12:21 p.m. Milk St. Larceny.
4:07 p.m. E Main St. Fire, rescue elevator.
6:30 p.m. Roclawn Rd. AC, animal attack.
Sunday, Sept. 1
12:27 a.m. Grant Rd. Extra patrols/ house checks.
12:33 a.m. Rogers Rd. Extra patrols/ house checks.
12:47 a.m. Fisher St. Extra patrols/ house checks.
6:44 p.m. Peters Farm Way. Trespassing.
7:10 p.m. Denny St. Threats made.
9:49 p.m. SW Cutoff/Davis St. Fire, motor vehicle accident.
10:55 p.m. Milk St. Disabled auto.
COMMUNITY CLASSIFIED
COMMUNITY CLASSIFIEDS
Virtusa Corporation
Virtusa Corporation has multiple openings for the following positions in Southborough, MA and other unanticipated locations across U.S.: Lead Consultant – Mobility Solutions: Bach in CS, Elctrncs Engrng or rel fld +3yrs wrkng w/ Mobile Solution Tech in a distrib environ. Ref # VIR- 1045.
Business Analyst III: Bach in CS, Business Admin or rel fld +5yrs of prgrsv post-bach IT exper, incl 2+yrs of business/systms analysis; OR Master’s in CS, Business Admin or rel fld +2yrs business/systms analysis. Ref #VIR-1049.
Business Intelligence Engineer II: Bach in Data Sci or any Engrng fld +2yrs exper in analysis, assembly, & mining of lrg data sets using Python & SQL; OR Master’s in Data Sci or any Engrng fld +1yr exper in analysis, assembly, & mining of lrg data sets using Python & SQL. Basic proficiency or coursewrk in data sci and ML concepts. Ref #VCS-41.0578. For all positions, employee will work in various unanticipated locations in U.S., travel/re-location possible. Please email resumes to: apply@virtusa.com, making specific reference to the Ref # of the position you are applying to.
Grafton
Sunday, Sept. 1
7:46 a.m. Wesson St. Animal complaint.
Monday, Sept. 2
5:07 p.m. Worcester St. Road hazard.
Tuesday, Sept. 3
7:08 p.m. a.m. Mass Pike E. Accident –personal injury.
4:24 p.m. Westboro Rd. Accident – hit & run.
5:01 p.m. Shrewsbury St. Civil dispute.
6:03 p.m. Worcester St. Assault.
6:25 p.m. Brigham Hill Rd. Wires down.
Wednesday, Sept. 4
4:07 p.m. Shrewsbury St. Road rage.
7:47 p.m. Mass Pike W. Road hazard.
Thursday, Sept. 5
5:02 a.m. Providence/Milford Rds. Disabled auto.
6:48 a.m. Mass Pike E. Accident – personal injury.
12:10 p.m. North St. Fire – motor vehicle.
Friday, Sept. 6
8:34 a.m. Providence Rd. Vandalism.
8:44 a.m. Carroll Mnr. B&E into vehicle.
1:57 p.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/identity theft.
7:32 p.m. Kay St. Fire, structure. Saturday, Sept. 7
6:41 a.m. North/Chestnut Sts. Traffic hazard.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Petition #ZSP-24-10
Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. Pursuant to Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023 extending the remote meeting provisions of March 12, 2020, Executive Order suspending certain provisions of the Open Meeting Law, this meeting of the Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals will be conducted via remote participation. Specific information for remote participation will be included on the agenda. At this time the Board of Appeals will hear the request of Heather Cutler (f/k/a Heather Barnes) and Kevin Cutler, re-
questing a Special Permit for the expansion of a pre-existing non-conforming single-family dwelling structure pursuant to Section 5.1.6.1 of the Town of Hudson Protective Zoning By-Laws. The subject property is located at 377 River Road in the IA Industrial Zoning District, Assessors’ Map 62 Parcel 4. The Board may consider any action deemed necessary relative to the subject petition. All petition materials are available for review in the Town Clerk’s Office during regular business hours, on the Town of Hudson website at https://go.boarddocs. com/ma/hudsonma/Board.nsf/ goto?open&id=D8ZRVL6FD81F and can be requested by calling (978) 562-2989 or by sending an email to kevangelisti@ townofhudson.org.
Antonio Mancini, Jr., Clerk Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals
HUDSON
Sue Ryan LEGAL NOTICES | from
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
Bairos, Helio of Hudson Cunningham, Kristine of Hudson Cunningham Sr., Richard of Hudson DeLuca, Teresa of Hudson Duprez, Marsha of Marlborough Finlay, Claire of Marlborough Fox, Elizabeth of North Grafton Hanner, Karl of Southborough Iandoli, James of Shrewsbury Maurice, Roland of Marlborough Pacheco, Virginio of Hudson Pearl, Daniel of Southborough Reilly, Kathryn of Shrewsbury Ricker, Robert formerly of Shrewsbury Santella, Elizabeth of Marlborough Schunder, Jason of Northborough Simonian, Richard of Berlin Richard Walsh of Northborough
Lisa A. Demake, 64
WORCESTER - Lisa Demake, 64, of Holden, formerly of Worcester and Shrewsbury, passed away unexpectedly in her sleep at home on Friday, September 13th 2024. Lisa was predeceased by her parents, Nickolas and Androniki (Chachi) Demake.
Lisa was born in Memphis Tennessee. At the age of six, she moved with her family to Worcester as her father was completing his military service. She then attended Worcester and Shrewsbury public schools and graduated from Shrewsbury High School in 1978. She later earned her Bachelor of Science from Worcester State College. She has worked as an employee of the Federal Social Security Disability Insurance Agency, as a case representative for many years.
Lisa is survived by her three siblings, James Demake of Auburn, and his wife Carole, Elaine (Demake) Rocheford and husband George of Cape Coral Florida, and George Demake of Worcester; her two best friends and pet pug dogs, Petals and Mimi whom she
adored and provided her with companionship; Many nephews, nieces, and extended family members. In addition to her parents, a sister-in-law, Angela (Prizio) Demake predeceased her.
Lisa was also a lifelong member of St. Nicholas Romanian Orthodox Church in Shrewsbury. With her family and friends, her true passion and love in life was her involvement in amateur theatre, which began when she was a young teenager. Lisa worked with several local theatre companies throughout her life, but most notably was her involvement with the Worcester County Light Opera Company, were she served in several capacities as actress, producer and board member over many years, she cherished her friends and the relationships that were formed through her association with the theatre. Lisa will be remembered for her kind and loving spirit, her personal sense of style and will be dearly missed by family and friends.
“May her memory be Eternal”
The Mercadante Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
Roland W. Maurice, 94
MARLBOROUGH - Roland W. Maurice, 94, of Marlborough, died Monday, August 19, 2024 at his home with his family.
He was the son of the late Adelard and Beatrice (DePatie) Maurice and husband of the late Joan (Kennedy) Maurice to whom he had been married to for 62 years at the time of her death. Roland is survived by his children, Diane Gotthardt and her husband Douglas of Hudson, Michele Lacina and her husband Richard of Marlborough, Ovide Maurice and his wife Judith of Anson, ME and Wayne Maurice of Marlborough. He is also survived by 5 grandchildren, 10 greatgrandchildren and 3 greatgreat grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers Edgar Maurice of FL and Philip and his wife Claire Maurice of Marlborough and many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his brothers Louis, Ovide and
Cornelius.
The Slattery Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.
Daniel D. Pearl, 69
Scan QR code to read all of this week’s obituaries on our website.
friends and colleagues from her teaching career. Kath was predeceased by her parents and sister-in-law, Jane Allen.
SOUTHBOROUGH - Daniel David Pearl, of Southborough, MA. Born in Brooklyn, NY, July 15, 1955. Died in Worcester, MA, August 14, 2024.
Dan was born in Brooklyn, NY and grew up in Little Neck, NY. He was the beloved husband of Shelagh Ellman-Pearl and cherished father of Lily Pearl, both of whom he loved with all his heart. He was the loving son of Paul Pearl and Arlene (Levy), late of Pittsford, NY.
A memorial celebration of Dan’s life will be held at the Concord Scout House, 74 Walden Street, Concord, MA on September 29, 2024, at 10:30 AM. Future commemorations of his life will be held in dance communities he loved.
The Short & Rowe Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.
Kathryn C. Reilly, 70
SHREWSBURY - Longtime Framingham educator Kathryn C. Reilly, 70, of Shrewsbury died with her family by her side on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston. Kath had been diagnosed recently with an aggressive form of glioblastoma.
In addition to her husband of 46 years, James A. Reilly, Kath was the devoted and proud mother of her children, Anna Kim and her husband Hyunjun Youn of Seoul, South Korea, and Jay H. Reilly of Shrewsbury; her beloved brothers and sister-in-law, Dennis Duprey and his wife Patti of Kennebunk, Maine and Michael Duprey of Concord, New Hampshire; her brotherin-law Jim Allen of Groton, Ma., and Kathleen Reilly and her husband Lance Morrow of South Orange, New Jersey; many adored nieces and nephews and a host of close
Family and friends will honor and remember Kath by gathering on Sunday, September 22nd at Cyprian Keyes Golf Club, 284 East Temple Street, Boylston, MA, for a celebration of life. The Memorial Service will begin at 2 p.m., followed by a reception. The burial, which will be private, will take place at Calvary Cemetery, Concord, New Hampshire. There are no calling hours.
Arrangements by James + John Heald of The Joyce Funeral Home of Waltham.
Karl L. Hanner, 80
SOUTHBOROUGH - Karl L. Hanner, of Southborough, died at the age of 80 on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, after suffering a heart attack while riding his bike near his family’s beloved Pine Island Lake house in Westhampton, Massachusetts. He died with his beloved wife by his side.
Karl was the son of the late Reinhold and Maria (Gilman) Hanner and husband of Pamela A. (Mercurio) Hanner. Karl and Pam were married for 42 years. He was predeceased by his brother, Erik Hanner. Along with his wife Pamela, Karl is survived by his daughter Kristen Hanner Mader of Pelham, NH, his son Jeffrey Hanner and family of Dallas, TX, and his sister Siri Hanner of Salem, MA. Karl is also survived by his grandchildren, Kyle, Brooke and Kate Mader.
The Morris-Johnston Funeral Home of Southborough assisted with arrangements.
Helio M. Bairos, 72
HUDSON - Helio M. Bairos, 72, of Hudson, MA, passed away on Friday, September 6, 2024 surrounded by his loving family. Helio was born and raised in Terceira, the Azores of Portugal, son of the late Joao Chaves Bairos and Maria C. (Monteiro) Bairos.
Helio is survived by his wife
Rosa Maria (Medeiros) Bairos and his two children, Stephanie Bairos and Michael Bairos. He was the loving grandfather of Miley Rose Bairos. He is also survived by his many nieces, nephews, his cousins in America and Canada along with many friends.
Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted with arrangements.
Jason L. Schunder, 47
NORTHBOROUGH - The Schunder family share the passing of Jason L. Schunder, beloved son, brother and loving father to his own children, who passed away at home on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, after a brief medical episode. He was 47 years old. Jason was born in Worcester, the second oldest child to John R. and Katherine (Deftereos) Schunder, Jr. Surviving Jason are his three children who he loved more than they will ever know, Vanessa, Mason and Braylon Schunder; his mother, Kathy of Northborough; two brothers, John Schunder, Jr. and wife Laurie of Richmond, VA, Michael Schunder and wife Kerry of Rockland, MA; a sister, Bridget Schunder and companion Marty Barboza of Northborough; the mother of his children, Danielle; numerous nieces and nephews.
Hays Funeral Home of Northborough assisted with arrangements.
Elizabeth A. Santella, 94
MARLBOROUGH - Elizabeth “Betty” A Santella, 94, passed away at Christopher House in Worcester on September 5th, 2024. Elizabeth was the daughter of Andrew and Lucy Santella of Marlborough and lived there all of her life.
Betty was predeceased by her parents, and two brothers, Michael and Andrew Santella. She is survived by her cousin, Margaretta “Gretta” Skully as well as several other cousins. Short & Rowe Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.
Algonquin legend Richard “Dick” Walsh dies at
NORTHBOROUGH – Richard J.
“Dick” Walsh, 92, of Northborough passed away on Sept. 14. Walsh established himself as an Algonquin Regional High School legend. Walsh coached the football team starting in 1957, when Algonquin was still Northborough High School.
Over 23 years at the helm of the football program, Walsh won a school-record 134 games, including leading the team to an undefeated 10-0 season and Super Bowl championship in 1973 and another championship in 1976.
“Coach Walsh was a beloved and iconic member of the Algonquin football family and school community, and we all mourn his loss today. Coach Walsh has had a profound impact on me as a coach and person, and I will carry his wise advice with me throughout my life. He often inquired on how the kids were playing, what the upcoming opponent was like, and always had an inspirational remark,” Algonquin Head Football Coach Mark Allen said in a statement.
After his coaching career ended, Walsh remained around the Algonquin community, serving the school community in various capacities. Walsh was employed by the Public Schools of Northborough and Southborough for 64 total years as a physical education teacher, football coach, baseball coach, and athletic director.
“Even after retiring from coaching, Coach Walsh remained a steadfast presence at Algonquin, attending home football games at the field named in his honor during a
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Richard “Dick” Walsh, shown here in late 2023 celebrating the 50-year anniversary of his 1973 championship, has died at 92.
(Photo/Evan Walsh)
Thanksgiving halftime in the late 1990s. Beyond the football field, he continued to serve the school community,” said Athletic Director Michael Mocerino. “His commitment to Algonquin Regional High School was truly unparalleled. We are profoundly grateful to Coach Walsh for his years of dedication.”
Born in Boston, Walsh was the son of the late John and Florence (McGann) Walsh. He was educated in Boston schools and was a graduate of Boston Latin School in 1949. He graduated from Boston University in
1953 and earned his master’s degree in 1958. During the Korean Conflict he served with the U.S. Army.
Walsh was the husband of Doris A. (Donovan) Walsh.
Walsh was a member of the Massachusetts High School Athletic Directors Executive Committee. He was a member of the Massachusetts High School Football Coaches Committee and was past president, a member of the Shrine Football Committee, the Mass. Super Bowl Committee, a member of the National Football Foundation and the former Northborough Parks Commissioner.
In addition to his wife, Walsh is survived by four children: Michael J. Walsh and his wife, Mary Ann, of Freehold, NJ; Maureen A. Dalton and her husband, Dan, of Spencer; Dianne M. Pinto and her husband, Jose, of Milford; and John J. Walsh and his wife, Wesley, of Berlin, CT. He is also survived by one brother, Thomas Walsh of Milton; 11 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
Calling hours were Wednesday, September 18, and his funeral Mass was Thursday, September 19, at 10:00 A.M. at St. Bernadette’s Church. His legacy will also be celebrated on Nov. 29th, 2024, when he will be inducted into the Algonquin Athletics Hall of Fame.
In lieu of flowers, and at the request of the Walsh family, the Richard Walsh Memorial Fund was established, which will be dedicated to enhancing and improving the Richard Walsh field. Donations in his memory may be made to the Richard Walsh Memorial Fund, c/o Office of the Superintendent- Finance Dept., 53 Parkerville Road, Southborough, MA 01772. Checks should be made payable to Northborough-Southborough Regional School District. On the memo line, please include “The Richard Walsh Memorial Fund” Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home, 62 West Main St., Westborough.
By Evan Walsh Reporter
NORTHBOROUGH – There’s no place like home for the Algonquin Titans’ field hockey team.
After a 10-day stretch of away games — including contests at Acton-Boxborough, Leominster, and Hopkinton — the Titans returned home on Sept. 16 to face Mid-WachA rival Shrewsbury. While the team didn’t seem to mind the extra travel over the season’s first week, Algonquin embraced its return to familiar territory, defeating the Colonials 5-1 to keep its undefeated record intact.
“This is our first home game in a week and a half, so it’s kind of nice to be out here on this beautiful field, getting to play at home for the first time in many years. Today, it’s Shrewsbury, a Mid-Wach-A rival — we wanted to get out
there. Bringing that momentum, the rivalry, and wanting to keep that win streak going really pushed us to find the gas
today,” said Lindsey Brown, a Northwestern-committed Algonquin midfielder.
After a back-and-forth
opening few minutes with several key saves from Shrewsbury goalie Aarika Singh, Algonquin ultimately broke through on a penalty stroke from Brown with two minutes remaining in the first quarter.
Minutes after the Colonials knotted the game at 1-1 to start the second quarter, Brown scored her second goal to put the Titans ahead 2-1. Algonquin did not relinquish the lead for the rest of the game.
“It’s been nice because almost our entire team is returning, so we’ve had two seasons to really figure out what works well for us. It’s really showing this year, I think, which is really awesome. We’ve had some new players who have really stepped it up,” Brown said.
Anna Bellville was solid as goalie for the Titans, and the team’s offense kept building on its lead. Taylor Mieth made the game 3-1 with just over 10 minutes remaining in the third quarter, and two goals from Annelise Gingrich in a
four-minute span put Algonquin ahead 5-1 and secured the game.
For her efforts, Gingrich was awarded the “Spirit Stick,” a maroon-and-gold field hockey stick passed between players who embody hard work, strong communication, and other qualities. It’s a tradition that dates back to 2013.
“I think [the team] connect[s] on and off the field really well, so I think that helps us on the field,” said Gingrich.
With his team now 6-0, Head Coach Dan Welty said he’s proud of how the Titans have come together, bonding at practice and pasta parties.
“We just get better as the game goes on. We peak in the fourth quarter. We really read the other team and just made our adjustment. Everyone works well together up front. We knew we had to take quick shots up front and make those adjustments today, and those girls did that,” he said.
Top left: Hannah Regan (left) and Caroline Ganger (right) vie for the ball.
Top right: Shrewsbury’s Rachel Lemay tries to get the ball away from Algonquin’s Lindsey Brown. Right: Shrewsbury’s Valerie Ornelas Cottier fends off an Algonquin defender. (Photos/Evan Walsh)
Westborough falls in opening game to Burlington
By Evan Walsh Reporter
WESTBOROUGH – In a weekone matchup at Joseph R. Mewhiney Field, the Westborough Rangers —fresh off a 2023 campaign that included a Mid-Wach-B title and the program’s first playoff berth since 2017 — competed against the Burlington Red Devils. In a penalty-filled game that was closer than the final score indicates, the Rangers lost 2714 and dropped to 0-1 on the season.
“We have a lot of guys playing varsity football for the first time. Although you try to tell them it’s nothing different, it’s a little bit different with the Friday night lights, and it’s 7 p.m. at night. I thought we had some jitters in the first half, but I thought the kids did a good job of gathering themselves and keeping themselves composed,” said Westborough Head Coach Joe Beveridge. “At the end of the day, there were too many penalties to overcome. Too many minor mistakes.”
After allowing a touchdown pass with 14 seconds left in the second quarter, Westborough went into halftime down 14-0.
Yet the Rangers emerged re-energized after trotting back onto the field. In the 27 seconds after intermission, Westborough’s offense moved
roughly 50 yards down the field in a drive that culminated with a leaping touchdown grab from wideout Brady Chapman.
Chapman’s score made the game 14-7, and after stopping Burlington’s offense, Westborough had the opportunity to get even.
That drive, however, ended with an interception, and the Red Devils scored once more to take a two-score lead with 9:29 remaining in the game.
Though they trailed 21-7 with five minutes remaining, the Rangers kept fighting. Westborough quarterback Andrew Pisciotta scampered into the end zone with 3:14 remaining to bring his team within seven points. After a failed onside kick, the Rangers got the ball back with 35 seconds, needing to drive approximately 70 yards for the chance to tie. A pick-six made the game 27-14.
In postgame remarks, Beveridge said his team got “behind the chains” too frequently, leading to several third-and-long scenarios that halted any offensive production. Fumbles and penalties were also a problem.
“We poll the kids every year on the traits they wanted to be identified by. The team chose to be identified as a family that’s disciplined and physically and mentally tough. At
the end of the day, I asked them if they lived up to the standards that they wanted to be held by, and they said, ‘No.’ At the end
of the day, the family’s united, but we have a lot to work on,” he said.
Westborough will host Sha-
ron High School on Sept. 20 at 6:30 p.m. before hitting the road to face Tyngsborough on Sept. 27.
Thomas Cashman runs through a defender en route to the first-down marker. Malluch Nyutu surges forward as Burlington defenders weigh him down. (Photos/Evan Walsh)
After 70 years of capturing moments, Keegan puts down the camera
By Evan Walsh Reporter
SHREWSBURY – Thomas
Keegan spent decades photographing others. Now, it’s his career that’s coming into focus.
After 70 years of taking pictures, Keegan has chosen to step away from the camera. Keegan is in the process of
moving out of his studio — which has been located on Main Street in Shrewsbury for the last 45 years — and winding down his business, Keegan Photography, which started in 1976.
He has captured countless memories, photographed a half-dozen presidents, and seen generations of children
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move through the school system into adulthood. Through changes in Central Mass. — and changes to the nature of photography itself — Keegan’s business remained strong.
“I wouldn’t have changed it for the world,” Keegan said.
“It’s been the most rewarding profession I could’ve ever been in. I met beautiful people from all walks of life.”
Finding photography Keegan grew up in Shrewsbury, but it wasn’t without hardship. When he was very young, his Rice Street home was struck by lightning; his family lost everything and had to rebuild their lives “piece by piece,” Keegan said.
His graduation from Shrewsbury High School was “blown out” by the 1953 Worcester Tornado that injured almost 1,300. But, tornado be damned, Keegan eventually graduated.
One year later, at age 19, Keegan stumbled into photography.
His cousin — Carlton LaPorte, who owned a studio on Highland Street in Worcester — asked Keegan to work beside him. Keegan confessed he “didn’t have any love for photography,” but he accepted LaPorte’s offer.
He’d stay at LaPorte’s studio for the next 22 years. In that time, Keegan developed his photography chops, eventually being named president of the Worcester County Professional Photographers Association of Massachusetts and the Professional Photographers Association of New England.
Among many other accolades, Keegan earned the prestigious “craftsman” title from the Professional Photographers of America – an award photographers, even those who have been in the industry their whole lives, rarely receive.
Making it to Main Street
After marrying his wife, Anne, in 1974, Keegan explored opening his own studio.
He first broached the question to his wife one Saturday afternoon. At 8 a.m. the next morning, Keegan heard the phone ring. It was Anthony “Spag” Borgatti, a close friend of the Keegans best known for his generosity and eponymous Shrewsbury superstore.
“We were good friends — I had done his kids’ weddings — and he asked if I had thought about opening my own business. He said, ‘I have a spot for you. I want you to go look at it.’ We went … and looked at it, went back to Spag, and he said, ‘The money is here on the table if you want to go and buy it.’ It was incredible,” recalled Keegan.
The Keegan family had just Keegan | 31
Thomas Keegan is officially putting down the camera, ending his 70-year career in the photography business. (Photo/Evan Walsh)
‘Get Charged Up’ for annual EV expo
WESTBOROUGH – The annual “Get Charged Up” EV Expo will take place on Sunday, Sept. 29, from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Amazon Robotics parking lot, 50 Otis St.
The expo is a free community event co-hosted by the Westborough Rotary Club and Sustainable Westborough. It brings together electric vehicle owners and community members who may be interested in making a transition to an electric vehicle at their next opportunity.
Last year, more than 35 EV owners displayed their vehicles and interacted with more than 150 visitors. The owners shared personal experiences of owning an EV, and they answered questions covering a wide-range of topics. In 2024, organiz-
ers plan having a larger event by adding more EV owners and getting more community members to attend this expo.
Registration is still open at the following link for EV owners who would like to display their vehicles and volunteers: https://driveelectricweek. org/event?eventid=4399
For inquiries, please send emails to any of the following:
Jeff Levine (jefflevine123@gmail.com, committee chair, Get Charged Up EV Expo 2024)
Ben Bowers (bbowers@westboroughma.gov, sustainability coordinator, town of Westborough)
After 70 years of capturing moments, Keegan puts down the camera
bought a house — the furniture was still in the garage, ready to be moved in — but Spag insisted: “It’s OK, we’ll work it out,” he told the family.
The photography business exploded at Keegan’s new Oak Street studio, which he worked in for three years before moving the company to a larger studio on Main Street.
“I wasn’t sure all the Worcester people were going to support us in the same way. [But] everybody was on the phone waiting for appointments. It worked out fantastic… We were putting wedding [pictures] together in the bedroom, we were putting class pictures in folders in the kitchen,” Keegan explained.
Camera career
Though camera technology evolved as Keegan continued to shoot, his ability to take excellent photographs never wavered.
The key to a good photograph is in the subject’s eyes, he explained, which convey emotion and expression. Just like LaPorte did for him, Keegan has sponsored young photographers and taught them his secrets.
Keegan has photographed celebrities and other icons. Over the last 70 years, he’s worked with the Diocese of Worcester to photograph various bishops. The Catholic Free Press in 2004 called him the “Chancery’s trusted lensman.” He does his job with “liturgical finesse,” the Worcesterbased publication said.
Then there are the presidents. He’s taken pictures of five of them — John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson, Richard Nixon, Jimmy Carter and Barack Obama. He also took photographs of Vice President Hubert Humphrey when he spoke at Clark University, and Pope John Paul II when he visited Boston amid downpours in 1979.
But Keegan seemed to take the most pride in welcoming countless students into his studio for school pictures. Keegan photographed students from all the grammar schools of Worcester, also taking pictures for South High Community School, Holy Name, St. Peter’s, Doherty Memorial High School, Shrewsbury High School, Sutton High School, Millbury High School, Algonquin Regional High School and many others.
“I never had an incident with any of them. Some kids came from next to nothing, and some of these kids didn’t have a buck for pictures, but they got their pictures just the same,” he said. With the myriad portraits, family shots, and
wedding photos he’s taken, Keegan has become one popular man. He seems to run into former clients wherever he goes, he said.
“Anne says to me, ‘You’d make a lousy thief because everywhere we go somebody knows you,’” he said laughing.
“It’s been a privilege all these years to have tried to give people the very best you can give them. I know how important these photographs are to people – it’s not something you just take their money and run. We had the best people in the business working with us,” Keegan added.
