SHREWSBURY – The Municipal Facilities Optimization Committee (MFOC) on Sept. 23 recommended to the Select Board a new project design to renovate the town’s Department of Public Works facilities. The recommended budget for the project came in at $26.8 million. Of the $26.8 million, $22.3 million would be construction costs.
Formed by the Select Board in April, the five-member MFOC has been meeting since June to recommend plans to solve the ongoing space deficiencies at the town’s 207-211 South St. DPW facilities. The 13.75-acre parcel includes an DPW | 11
Cummings asks for $8.3 million override for Grafton schools
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
GRAFTON – For the third time since 2015, James Cummings is asking for an override to help keep Grafton Public Schools operational.
The superintendent came before the School Committee on Sept. 24 to discuss the financials and plan for the next five fiscal years.
The request — $8.3 million — would be spread from fiscal 2026 to 2030, and it would help cover anticipated deficits within the school budget. It would be similar to overrides passed in 2015 and 2020.
For example, the preliminary school budget for the 2026 fiscal year is estimated to be $46.5 million, about $2.1
Override | 18
Westborough opens part of BWALT trail
Egan, center, president
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – A new path along West Park Drive, off Flanders Road, marks the part of what will eventually be a 12mile, multi-use trail.
On Wednesday, Sept. 25, local officials and sponsors gathered at a nearby office park to celebrate the completion of a portion of the Boston-Worcester Airline Trail (BWALT).
State Rep. Hannah Kane (R-Shrewsbury) praised the project, recalling a dirt trail behind her childhood home in Maine.
Walking that trail “helped turn off every piece of noise in your head,” said Kane.
She added that the value of trails rose during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“You cannot overlook the mental health benefits” of a trail system, she said.
Kane and state Rep. Kate Donaghue (D-Westborough) presented a State House citation to Christopher Egan, president of Carruth Capital Inc., one of the project’s major sponsors.
“I’m proud to be part of the BWALT project,” said Egan.
The trail was constructed with help from the state’s Department of Transportation, MassWorks, MassTrails and the Central Massachusetts Regional Planning Committee.
What’s next?
Portions of the BWALT are in various stages of study and/or development.
On Wednesday, Sept. 11, the Planning Department held an informational meeting related to Section 2 of the trail.
The section begins at Otis Street and ends at Park Street — a distance of 1.67 miles.
Northborough | 4
Split vote recommends new fire station Bacon selected to be next town administrator
northborough
Southborough narrowly approves MBTA zoning
Saint John’s football exacts revenge on Shrewsbury
Stay up to date with all the news!
Christopher
of Carruth Capital, cuts the ribbon formally opening a portion of the BWALT trail along West Park Drive on Wednesday, Sept. 25. Left to right: Ian Johnson, Christopher Egan, Rep. Kate Donaghue, Shelby Marshall and Don Burn. (photo/Maureen Sullivan)
Electric vehicle fair charges up the crowds
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – Like other car owners, those who drive electric vehicles have their own tales of the road — mapping out EV chargers for a trip to Williamsburg, Va., finding an auto body shop that specializes in aluminum, figuring out the costs of installing a home EV charger.
Overall, though, the EV owners who displayed their vehicles at the annual “Get Charged” fair at the Amazon parking lot on Sunday, Sept. 29, are happy with “plugging in” instead of fueling up.
“It’s not for everybody, but it does cost less for fuel and maintenance,” said Glenn Corwin of Framingham, who brought his 2017 Tesla “falcon wing” vehicle. “It’s fun to drive, and there’s no oil or transmission changes.”
This was Corwin’s first visit to this EV event, but he said he’s been “doing a bunch of these” shows.
A Tesla “falcon wing” vehicle. Unlike a “gull wing,” the rear doors are hinged, so they could fold while opening and closing in case the vehicle is parked in a tight space.
vehicle shown in the “Fortnite” video game, and plant their hands on the stainless-steel frame.
Luckily, owner Josh Sinykin of Shrewsbury brought plenty of Windex.
There were 42 electric vehicles at the event, along with information on EVs from several vendors.
The event was co-sponsored by Sustainable Westborough and the Rotary Club of Westborough.
More information on Sustainable Westborough is available at https://www.sustainablewestborough.com/
Next to Corwin, Derek Speed of Westborough showed his Toyota Rav4 hybrid, which he purchased new in April. Speed said that despite the additional costs to buy new instead of used, he’s already saving money from not having to fuel up as often.
A Tesla cybertruck turned
OPEN HOUSE
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Discover our key signature programs, including academics, athletics, the Innovation Center, our farm, and tutorial support. Enjoy a morning filled with insightful discussions, campus tour, and a Q&A panel about the many opportunities that Hillside School offers. Don’t miss out — register now! We can’t wait to see you!
10:15 - 10:45am – An Introduction to Hillside School 10:45 - 11am – Panel/Q&As
more than a few heads. For the kids, it was a chance to see the
For information on the Rotary, visit https://www. facebook.com/westboroughrotary
Book signing in honor of former Southborough resident
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – Karen McGinnis was a mother, grandmother, waitress and cook who liked to “pahh-ty.”
According to her daughter, Amy Mosher Berry, her mother would use just about any excuse to meet up with family and friends and have a good time.
McGinnis was also an active volunteer and ran her own business — Kanning with Karen, which taught how to preserve jams, jellies and pickles by canning.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, McGinnis wrote a cookbook containing her family’s favorite recipes; she donated the proceeds to breast cancer research.
First diagnosed in 2008, the former Southborough resident passed away from breast cancer in December 2023.
To honor her mother, and raise funds for a new charity, “Grammy Feeds People,” Berry and her family will conduct a book-signing/selling of “Easy Favorites Cookbook” on Sunday, Oct. 6, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Tatnuck Booksellers, 14 Lyman St.
In addition to the book signing, Berry said, “We will be
sharing [information] about the Grammy Feeds People project — launched as a promise to my young daughter she would never forget her precious Grammy.”
The project will be a program through the Greater Worcester Community Foundation to support women with breast cancer and people experiencing food insecurity.
“Once we get to $10,000, grants for these two missions will start being available to our community in Mom’s name,” said Berry.
A special guest will be bringing his blue suede shoes — an Elvis Presley impersonator will be performing.
Light refreshments will be served.
Berry asks that attendees wear bright colors (and/or Elvis gear) in honor of her mother and stepfather, Dave McGinnis, who passed away four months after his wife.
“It has been a difficult year, and now it’s time to ‘pahhty,’ as Ma would say,” said Berry. “Please come to celebrate their lives.”
For information and to RSVP for the event, go to https:// grammyfeedspeople.org/
The deadline to RSVP was Tuesday, Oct. 1.
SHREWSBURY – The community flocked to Saint John’s on Sept. 28 for the Spirit of Shrewsbury Fall Festival. The event featured vendors and booths, music, pie-eating contests, a dog show and much more. For more photos from Spirit of Shrewsbury, visit communityadvocate.com. (Photo/Tami White)
The Community Advocate’s Policy on Letters to the Editor Letters must be signed with a name, address and telephone number for verification (only name and town will be printed). Letters should be sent to news@communityadvocate.com or mailed to Managing Editor c/o Community Advocate, 32 South St. Westborough MA 01581. The editor reserves the right to reject letters on the basis of length, libelous content, suitability and space constraints. Multiple letters from the same person will not be accepted within a 90 day period. “Form letter” submissions, in which the content of one letter is essentially duplicated, will not be accepted. Letters should be 350 words or less. Deadline is 12 p.m. Friday the week before publication. Opinions expressed in the letters to the editor do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Community Advocate management or its advertisers.
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By Evan Walsh Reporter
SHREWSBURY – Town Manager Kevin Mizikar informed the Select Board on Sept. 24 that Repligen, a “bioprocessingfocused life sciences company,” will lease out the vast majority of the large Centech Park North building along South Street and Route 20.
The company is currently fitting out the space and signage has been installed, said Mizikar.
Repligen was founded in 1981 and “inspire[s] advances in bioprocessing through the development and commercialization of high-value products and flexible solutions that address critical steps in the production of biologic drugs,” according to its website.
The company is headquartered in Waltham and has dozens of offices throughout the world, including locations in Auburn, Hopkinton and Marlborough.
The Community Advocate is a weekly periodical, (U.S.P.S. # 014-423), published by Bagdon Advertising, Inc., with offices located at 32 South Street, Westborough, MA 01581. Periodicals postage is paid at Shrewsbury, MA 01546 and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Please send address changes to: Community Advocate, 32 South Street, Westborough, MA 01581. Publication date is Friday. Deadline for R.O.P. advertising, local community news and classified advertising is Friday, noon, seven days prior to publication. Not liable for typographical errors, however, we will reprint that portion of the ad wherein error occurred if notified in writing within three working days of the publication date. All material included is the property of The Community Advocate and may include material produced under copyright or a syndicated ad service. Permission must be obtained in writing before reproducing any material from any issue of the Community Advocate.
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Repligen coming to Centech Park North represents a major step in the town’s decadeslong effort to find productive uses for the 60-acre Allen Farm (or Allen Property).
In 2002, the Shrewsbury Development Corporation was formed to facilitate the redevelopment of the property. After years of business-friendly practices designed to attract commercial development, the property was sold in 2021 to NorthBridge Partners, LLC for $6.5 million.
Centech Park North was subsequently developed.
“It’s a really great outcome, and a tribute to town staff and NorthBridge Partners, who developed the [building], to get a very high-end, lower-impact use within that space. That’s something that we always focus on, creating jobs for the community. We look forward to working with Repligen in the future once they begin operations here in Shrewsbury,” said Mizikar.
Whiskey Making Basics
Whiskey production involves several meticulously crafted steps that contribute to its distinctive character. It begins with malting, where barley is soaked, germinated, and dried to activate enzymes that convert starches into fermentable sugars. The malted barley is then ground into a grist and mixed with hot water in a process called mashing. The resulting liquid, known as wort, is fermented by adding yeast, converting the sugars into alcohol. This fermented liquid, now called wash, undergoes distillation, typically in copper pot stills, where it is heated, and the alcohol is separated from impurities. The distillate is then transferred to wooden casks, usually oak, for maturation. During this aging process, the whiskey absorbs flavors and colors from the wood, developing its complexity.
At JULIO’S LIQUORS we cater to all levels of experience and take pleasure in encouraging all our customers to learn more about wine and liquor and feel excited about their purchases. Each member of our staff is friendly, passionate, and knowledgeable about wines. We sincerely enjoy talking about wine and strive to bring a personalized experience to each individual that shop with us. Stop by our store at 140 Turnpike Rd., Rt. 9 East and take a look at our great selection! PH: 508-366-1942
P.S. Finally, if necessary, the matured whiskey is blended and diluted to the desired strength before being bottled and ready for consumption.
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Ryan Maloney, owner
Hirsh, Maselli vote against recommending fire station project
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor
NORTHBOROUGH – With a split vote, the Select Board is recommending that Town Meeting approve an article to fund a new Northborough Fire Station.
During their meeting Sept. 23, Select Board members Mitch Cohen, Laura Ziton and Mike Tietjen voted in favor of the recommendation while members Julianne Hirsh and Lisa Maselli voted against.
Discussion
The future fire station is proposed for 61-65 West Main St. During Town Meeting on Oct. 7, voters will deliberate on an appropriation of $41,364,992 for the project.
Hirsh said that while she believes that the fire department needs an improved or new building, she has “serious enough concerns about this project that I will not be able to vote to support it.”
“It’s the size of the project,
the way we have to reconfigure that property to get the building on it. I think there’s enough concerns on my part that I couldn’t honestly support it,” she said.
Echoing Hirsh, Maselli voiced concerns about the size of the project and the land, which she said is a “brownfield” and requires a lot to be done to the site.
“I can’t imagine why we picked a place that used to be a gas station, which is beyond me,” she said.
Questions were asked about the project, but Maselli said they weren’t answered “or answered well.”
Cohen said the site is not a brownfield and has been cleared by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection.
Resident Scott Rogers asked the Select Board members who were not willing to recommend approval of the project to offer what their alternative was or what services they would cut.
Maselli said she supported
“ I think there’s enough concerns on my part that I couldn’t honestly support it.
Julianne Hirsh – Select Board
a public safety station for both the police and fire departments, which could be built at the current police station. She said there should have been consideration whether it would have been cheaper to purchase the building next to the existing fire station.
“I think it is our responsibility as selectmen to look at the fiduciary as well as what the department needs. There’s no question that this department needs to be in a better location, as well as the Town Hall as well as the police station,” said Maselli.
She said there are other options.
“It isn’t a doomsday if we don’t do this today, then well, we’re just never going to have a fire station. I don’t believe that’s the case at all. I think it could be worked into even taking perhaps the blueprint and
finding another location for it,” she said.
Cohen said a safety complex was examined during the feasibility stage, and it cost approximately 50% more than a fire station alone. He said the committee was also told there was not enough room for it at the police station, and the police station is in good shape and may need a renovation in a few years.
Cohen, who served on both the feasibility and building committee for the fire station, said that no project is perfect or ideal.
“We looked at many different sites. We looked at many different configurations. This was the least expensive as well as the best location for properly operating the fire station,” he said.
He said there were not any
other vacant lots in downtown that were large enough without purchasing a site for a flatter location. Renovating and expanding at the existing station at 11 Pierce St. would also involve purchasing commercial structures, he said.
Cohen also noted the “backup” of projects in town. The Peaslee School Building Committee recently held its first meeting.
“If we haven’t resolved the fire station, the Peaslee school either has to compete with the fire station or has to wait after the fire station so that we don’t hit two large capital projects within the same short period of time,” Cohen said.
Tietjen said if the project does not receive the votes, a smaller station or different location would not mean the project is cheaper.
“In the pure dollars and cents fiduciary piece, it’s going to cost more if we kick it down the road. Recent history has already proven that — that’s what occurred,” said Tietjen.
Understanding Long-Term Care
Gaudette Insurance provides Central Mass.
By Evan Walsh Reporter
REGION – Gaudette Insurance
Agency has been devoted to building relationships in Central Mass. since the very start.
Bed-ridden and sick with polio, Roy Gaudette started the agency near Grafton Common in 1926, writing automobile insurance policies for friends and neighbors alike. The business — spurred by a new Massachusetts law that mandated insurance for every car — was successful enough that Gerry Gaudette Sr., Roy’s younger brother, joined the business and moved down the Blackstone River to Northbridge in 1935 to open the agency’s second office. The business was incorporated 20 years later.
Gerry Gaudette Sr.’s eldest son and namesake, Gerry Jr., joined the agency in 1960 and drove its philosophy and growth for the next 40 years. Gerry Gaudette Jr. was an influential figure in both the Blackstone Valley and the Mas-
Much has changed in the century since Roy Gaudette started the agency — the group has expanded along the Route 9 Corridor, for instance, opening offices in Southborough, Westborough, and Shrewsbury — but the company’s philosophy has remained markedly the same. Gaudette Insurance Agency’s approach focuses on excelling at the old-fashioned funda -
mentals: building lasting relationships with clients, being responsive to clients’ needs, and having the expertise and ability to tackle a wide range of concerns.
“I’m proud of the company’s success,” said President Lee Gaudette, Gerry Sr.’s grandson and the third generation of Gaudettes to lead the agency. “But the achievements that we’ve made across the course of my career would not have been possible with-
out having been able to attract and keep a really great team of professionals that strive to exceed the expectations of our clients every day.”
With an experienced, knowledgeable staff — Lee Gaudette has been at the agency since 1990, and several staff members still have longer tenure — the folks at Gaudette Insurance Agency are able to foster relationships and trust with clients. The built-up trust is especially important in an
industry like insurance, which is an intangible and complicated product. At Gaudette Insurance, clients are assigned one person to communicate with, building familiarity, allowing for easier access to information, and eliminating call centers.
“We offer old-fashioned service with modern tools. It’s something that not many of our competitors do,” Gaudette told the Community Advocate. “We assign an individual person to handle the needs of each individual client – you have one person to call. It’s a good solution when you’re able to stay with us over a number of years. Our clients love it. Most of our larger competitors, you end up in a call center. Here, I encourage our people to recognize the client’s voice. Hopefully you get to know them, you get to recognize their voice. Building those long-term relationships is one of the keys to our success.”
The agency also prides
Gaudette
The team at Gaudette Insurance Agency. (Photo/Courtesy)
Apples and pumpkins abound at Tougas Family Farm
By Evan Walsh Reporter
NORTHBOROUGH – Autumn is officially here, and that means one thing — it’s applepicking season.
Luckily for Central Mass. residents, Tougas Family Farm, one of New England’s preeminent orchards, is conveniently located in Northborough, perched atop Ball Hill. With pick-your-own-fruit offerings, acres of orchards filled with apples to suit everyone’s taste, a bustling farm store filled with fresh products, and family-friendly attractions and facilities, Tougas has come to be the area’s premier fall (and year-round) destination.
“Tougas Family Farm is a really, really special place for families and for everyone. We take great pride in providing the best experience we can, and we’ve been trying to keep that small-farm feeling while at the same time welcoming a lot of people,” Jeannine Moore, a manager now in her fourth
season with Tougas, told the Community Advocate.
The farm has been in operation since 1981, when Maurice and Phyllis Tougas purchased 53 acres of apple and peach orchards. The family added strawberries, cherries, blueberries, blackberries, and pumpkins and, in 2001, purchased another 35 acres and continued to expand. Today, second-generation owner An-
dre Tougas tends to the farm. Tougas manages over 40,000 apple trees that produce 30-plus varieties of apples, including fan-favorites like Honeycrisp, McIntosh, Gala, Cortland, Autumn Crisp, EverCrisp, and Empire. With so many varieties, the apple season at Tougas Family Farm lasts from mid-August to November. Head to Tougas Family Farm to hitch a hayride,
apples,” said Moore.
Don’t have time to pick your own apples? Tougas’s Farm Store offers all the in-season varieties — and more. Explore an assortment of Tougas-made items, like fresh fudge, glazed nuts, jams, jellies, salsas, apple cider, and old-fashioned soda. Most items not made by Tougas are sourced locally, including honey and maple syrup offerings.
head out into the orchard, and participate in the farm’s pickyour-own-apple program.
“I’ve learned and recognized how carefully Andre Tougas and his team grow the fruit. They’re tasting apples on a regular basis and deciding whether they’re ripe enough to pick. They’re keeping the public out of the rows until when we think they’re prime. People are getting the best-tasting
Tougas Family Farm also produces an iconic autumn treat: the apple cider donut. The farm’s bakery makes over 10,000 on its busiest days. The bakery also produces other donuts when other fruits are in-season, such as strawberry and blueberry cider donuts. Right now, the pumpkin donut is a must try, says Moore.
“The donut machines run morning until night to keep up with the demand. The other things that come out of the bakery are pies and crisps: apple crisps, apple pie, cobblers during peach season,” said Moore.
Find fresh apple cider donuts, pumpkin patches, and more at Tougas Family Farm. (Photos/Evan Walsh)
Gaudette Insurance provides Central Mass. with stability, personal touch
itself on providing practical solutions to everyone; Gaudette Insurance Agency offers personal insurance (home, auto, life), business insurance (business owners, commercial property, workers’ compensation), and a range of other services for businesses ranging from art galleries to dental practices. The agency, which
Apples and pumpkins
abound at Tougas Family Farm
“Everything here in the bakery goes with the season of the fruit. We’re always in-season here. That’s a nice part about the farm. Every season you can come here and get something different that’s really highlighting the fresh fruit.”
All baked goods can be warmed and served à la mode at Tougas’s on-site kitchen, which also serves light-lunch fare like cold deli sandwiches. There are offerings perfect for children, including grilled cheese sandwiches, mac and cheese, and hot dogs. Tougas prides itself on being perfect for the whole family, and children are sure to enjoy the farm’s (free) playground and barnyard spaces.
“I think it’s important for families to have a clean, safe, wholesome place to bring their kids, and we’ve definitely strived for that — even down to the bathrooms. As a mom myself, it’s nice to have a destination where you know it’s going to be clean. The kids can run around and meet animals,” said Moore.
And if you’re already looking forward to Halloween, apples aren’t the only thing inseason. Tougas has a spacious pumpkin patch, including everything from Jack-O-Lanternready pumpkins to unique offerings like speckled-green “Warty Goblin” pumpkins. Tougas also has gourds, edible (sugar) pumpkins, and Cinderella pumpkins.
Tougas Family Farm is located at 234 Ball St. in Northborough. Visit https://tougasfamilyfarm.com/ for more.
Business Profiles are advertising features designed to provide information and background about Community Advocate advertisers.
has grown sixfold since 1990, has dozens of longstanding relationships with insurance partners, requiring employees to understand more products and risk appetites.
Still, it’s all worth it for Gaudette Insurance Agency; it means the company can better help Central Mass. residents and businesses.
“We’re on the side of our
customers, and we represent a lot of insurance partners. Many of our competitors won’t do that, because for every additional insurance company we add, we need to learn a new set of procedures — it’s kind of inefficient. The reason why we do it is because each individual company can bring a solution we might not have access to otherwise. We’re a generalist
with a geographic focus – we’re able to solve a broader range of problems, and having many insurance partners allows us to do that,” Gaudette said.
Gaudette Insurance Agency has five locations throughout Central Mass., including offices in Whitinsville (1 Plummers Corner), Grafton (68 Worcester St.), Westborough (86 East Main St.), Southborough (11 Main St.), and Shrewsbury (489 Boston Turnpike). For more information on the company, please visit https:// gaudette-insurance.com/ or call 508-234-6333.
Business Profiles are advertising features designed to provide information and background about Community Advocate advertisers.
“Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things shall be added to
We should not seek material things first, but seek spiritual things first and material things will come to us, as we honestly work for them. Many people seek material things first and think they can then grow into knowledge of spiritual things. You cannot serve God and Mammon at the same time. The first requisites of an abundant life are the spiritual things: honesty, purity, unselfishness, and love. Until you have these qualities, quantities of material things are of little real use to you.
Sponsored by Chief Joseph Robert J. Terkanian, P.O. Box 808 • Northborough, MA 01532
Gaudette | from page 5
Tougas | from page 6
Shrewsbury Police Department’s Community Night draws hundreds
By Evan Walsh Reporter
SHREWSBURY – The Shrewsbury Police Department on Sept. 25 invited the residents to the Police Station for the second annual Community Night.
The event featured live music, a half-dozen food trucks, interactive opportunities for children and adults alike, Police
Your Money, Your Independence
Open Enrollment: Medical Plans & Health Savings Accounts (HSA)
Open enrollment is a pivotal time to reassess and select the benefits that best suit your needs.
Among the key benefits you’ll choose are insurances (i.e. medical, dental/vision, life, AD&D, disability), services (i.e. legal), tax benefit programs (i.e. dependent care, commuter) and retirement plan participation (i.e. 401k).
An area perplexing many is analyzing High Deductible Health Plans (HDHP) and their tax savings counterpart, Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). Understanding these options can help you make informed decisions.
Choosing the right medical plan.
When it comes to selecting a medical plan, a few ground rules take precedence.
First, a medical plan is a personal choice, and you need to be comfortable with the care received “in-network”. Second, need to understand of your historical annual medical bills and expect consistency moving forward.
Case for High Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs).
Cost Structure: HDHPs feature lower monthly premiums but higher deductibles. You pay all costs up to the deductible before your plan starts covering expenses.
Financial Management: While HDHPs can have higher out-of-pocket costs, the lower premiums and tax advantages of an HSA can offset these costs.
Health Savings Account (HSA) Eligibility: Selecting a HDHP is required to participate in a HSA. HDHPs are often beneficial if you are healthy, don’t anticipate high medical expenses, and want to take advantage of the HSA’s tax benefits.
Health Savings Account (HSA).
Only during Open Enrollment or Life Event can you Opt-In to an HSA with a HDHP and $ amount to contribute. You can change the $ amount later, but not the ability to Opt-In.
Key HSA facts:
• In 2025, an individual can contribute $4,300 and a family up to $8,550.
• If over 55, contribute an additional $1,000.
• All contributions are tax-free - federal, state, and FICA (Social Security and Medicare).
• No federal taxes on HSA funds spent on qualified health care expenses.
• Excess HSA funds can be invested for tax-free growth to compound for years.
Thus, unlike any other tax-advantaged savings plan, HSA can offer “triple tax benefits”: tax-free contributions, tax-free earnings, and tax-free distributions.
Free money.
Shockingly, over 50% of eligible Americans decline to participate in an HSA. Unbelievable considering most employers put $500-$2,000 each year into an HSA. In theory, $1 per pay period could return $500-$2,000 per year from your employer — take it! Furthermore, “health rewards” programs can earn deposits into HSA by doing preventative care activities. Examples like $400 deposited when each spouse had an annual physical.
Get the tax savings.
Consider a family in 24% tax bracket averaging $4,000 in out-of-pocket medical expenses. HSA taxfree contributions would provide them tax savings of $1,466 ($960 federal 24% + $200 state MA 5% + $306 FICA 7.65%). A family in 32% bracket can max out 2025 contributions and gain tax savings of ~$3,817.
Leverage tax-free growth for retirement.
Gaining momentum is a financial planning strategy of avoiding withdrawals from HSAs and pay medical expenses from free cash flow. This allows for investment in funds/ETFs to grow tax-free for years before using in retirement for eligible expenses like Medicare premiums, vision, dental, hearing aids, nursing services, long-term care premiums, and medical expenses.
Retire Early crowd please note, while HSAs cannot be used to pay private health insurance premiums, they can pay for health care coverage purchased through an employer-sponsored plan under COBRA, which may be a desired option leaving a company and maintaining 18 months until reaching Medicare eligibility.
Learn more by connecting with your benefits coordinator or Certified Financial Planner.
The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.
Glenn Brown lives in MetroWest and is owner of PlanDynamic, LLC, www.PlanDynamic.com. He is a fee-only Certified Financial Planner™ helping motivated people take control of their planning and investing, so they can balance kids, aging parents and financial independence.
Left: Some children got the opportunity to sit behind the wheel of a fire truck.
Right: Siggy, the comfort dog from the Quinsigamond Community College Police Department, greeted guests.
(Photos/Evan Walsh)
Station tours, and, of course, the friendly faces of police comfort dogs from Shrewsbury and surrounding towns.
The event, said Police Chief Kevin Anderson, is meant to build trust between the community and police.
“We are the community. Three hundred years ago, it was stated by Sir Robert Peel that, ‘The community is the police, and the police are the community.’ We take that to heart. I think community engagement is so important in this day. We
have a lot of community activities, a lot of community engagement,” he said.
“Our goal is to have those non-enforcement operations, because then when you do need an officer — when you do see an officer — you’re familiar with them. Being familiar with someone that may be wearing a bulletproof vest and wearing a gun, it’s a better feeling,” Anderson added.
The Shrewsbury Police Department has a Community Engagement Team, dedicated to making a positive impact on the day-to-day lives of residents. Anderson extended his gratitude to the police personnel who helped make the event possible, including Lt. Timothy Finacom, Sgt. Ryan Bradley, Sgt. Christopher Abbascia, Sgt. Kevin Caviston, Ofc. Lynnet Sloan, Lt. Adam Cameron, and Ofc. Justin Walker.
Anderson also expressed gratitude to all the officers working the event.
Westborough Cultural Council sponsors annual Arts in Common
WESTBOROUGH – The Westborough Cultural Council will celebrate the 14th annual Arts in Common on Saturday, Oct. 5, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Bay State Commons.
The event will feature juried artisans, live bands and performers, community art activities, gourmet food trucks and a craft beer garden.
Funds raised will enable the Westborough Cultural Council to bring more arts-based programming to Westborough.
Paul Courchaine, a live looping acoustic/vocalist, will kick off the performances on stage at 11 a.m. At noon, Fiesta Dance Co. will be giving a free bachata dance lesson, and then Lori Diamond and Fred Abatelli and their daughter, Anelise, will sing on stage at 1 p.m.
At 2 p.m., there will be a bucket drumming lesson, followed by Henry the Juggler. Finish the day enjoying the music of Petty Larceny from 3:30 to 5 p.m.
There are many other demonstrations and activities, including cartoonist Dave MacDonald, Danielle Adams’ custom typewriter poetry, Henna by Swatihenna, David French Music petting zoo, face paint-
ing, art activities and more. Westborough-based artist and Arts in Common committee member Tracy Spadafora has a number of art activities planned to engage every age. Food trucks Simmer and Spice, Grub Guru, Anzio’s, Easy Street Tacos and Kona Ice will be on site, and more food vendors such as Yummy Mummy and Edward’s Coffee will be found in the tent section. You can also enjoy craft beer and hard seltzers from Start Line Brewing in the beer garden. To learn more about the festival, as well as sponsorship and advertising opportunities, visit www.artsincommon.net, and like its social media pages to stay up to date on all things Arts In Common.
Funds raised through Arts in Common support the annual Cultural Council grants. The grant application can be found on www.westboroughculturalcouncil.org. Applications must be completed online by Oct. 16. Only applications submitted online can be considered. More information can be found at https://massculturalcouncil. org/communities/local-cultural-council-program/application-process
Glenn Brown, CFP
Aging Gracefully
by MariAnn Paladino, Dir. of Admissions, Notre Dame Long Term Care
ADVERSE FOODS FOR THE ELDERLY
Food is a source of enjoyment for people of all ages, and the idea of giving up any favorite or healthy food may seem confusing. e elderly are particularly susceptible to having reactions to certain foods that, at one time, they were able to eat without any issues. As people age, it gets harder for their bodies to ght o certain foodborne infections. Uncooked or lightly cooked foods such as sushi, ceviche, and steak tartare may increase a senior’s risk of contracting food poisoning. Soft cheeses including Brie, Camembert, and Blue may also cause adverse e ects. It’s also important to avoid raw eggs, such as in Hollandaise sauce. Additionally, any foods that contain undercooked eggs should be avoided.
From preparing nutritious meals to making healthy lifestyle choices, seniors may need assistance with an array of tasks. Some seniors only require help with a few daily tasks so they can maintain their independence. However, those living with serious illnesses may need more extensive assistance. Please call NOTRE DAME LONG TERM CARE CENTER at (508) 852-3011 to learn more about our long-term care services. We are located at 559 Plantation Street.
P.S. Bananas are good food choices for seniors since they have been known to relieve symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Notre Dame Health Care
Long Term Care
559 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 508.852.3011 · notredamehealthcare.org
Christopher Heights of Marlborough, MA
Christopher Heights of Marlborough, MA, is a vibrant and welcoming senior living community that o ers a warm and nurturing environment for its residents. Nestled in a picturesque setting, Christopher Heights combines the charm of small-town living with the convenience of urban amenities. The community is known for its compassionate staff, beautifully maintained grounds, and a variety of engaging activities tailored to seniors.
Residents of Christopher Heights enjoy an array of fun and social activities designed to foster connection and joy. From weekly bingo games and arts and cra s sessions to fitness classes and movie nights, there is always something exciting happening. e community also organizes outings to local attractions, including a local live music venue, shopping, and seasonal ice cream shops. ese activities not only keep residents active but also provide ample opportunities for socialization and building lasting friendships.
Marlborough itself is a wonderful area for seniors, o ering a blend of natural beauty and modern conveniences. e town boasts several parks, walking trails, and cultural attractions like the Marlborough Public Library and the local senior center, which hosts additional events and programs.
Residents of Christopher Heights o en express how much they love living in such a supportive and dynamic community. ey appreciate the sense of belonging, the safety and security provided, and the numerous opportunities to stay engaged and active.
At Christopher Heights, seniors nd a place where they can thrive, make new friends, and enjoy their golden years to the fullest.
508-281-8001
99 Pleasant St., Marlborough, MA www.christopherheights.com
New Horizons retirement community in Marlborough offers independent living, assisted living, and memory care accommodations to meet a wide variety of needs. Assisted living and memory care service plans are uniquely personalized for each resident. The campus is also home to a 25-suite geripsych unit operated by an independent provider.
Schedule a visit today to discuss how New Horizons is right for you or your loved one. Immediate availability, including three home-cooked meals daily, starting at $2,400/month for one resident
Bacon selected to be next town administrator
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor
NORTHBOROUGH – North -
borough may have a new town administrator.
During its meeting on Sept. 30, the Select Board voted to extend a conditional offer of employment to Stephanie Bacon. While members praised both finalists, the board ultimately selected Bacon.
The offer is contingent on a background check and negotiation on the terms of appointment by the Select Board.
“I think Steph having the background and knowledge of some of the staff and the processes in Northborough –– I would like to see her in that position just based off the fact that I think that she knows them and it would really help her hit the ground running quickly and be able to have a really smooth transition,” said member Laura Ziton.
Bacon would fill the shoes of current Town Administrator Tim McInerney, who submit-
ted his letter of resignation effective Oct. 16.
In addition to advertising and posting the position, McInerney reached out to the communities surrounding Northborough and other town managers and industry leaders to tell them about it. Over a dozen people applied for the position.
The board narrowed the finalists to Bacon and Marc Strange on Sept. 23. The finalists responded to essay questions and had a chance to meet with staff.
Bacon was interviewed on Sept. 16.
She received her bache -
Stephanie Bacon speaks during her interview on Sept. 16.
(Photo/Courtesy Northborough Cable Access)
lor’s in regional planning from Westfield State College and master’s in public administration from Anna Maria College.
She said she fell into local government. As part of her work as a civil engineer, she went before Planning Boards and Conservation Commissions and began volunteering in her hometown.
“I just had the love of municipal government and the people,” Bacon said. “It is a great team to work for. There are so many diverse areas involved. I would be honored to help Northborough as best as I could and make it beautiful and a positive, friendly, happy
place to be.”
Bacon currently serves as the assistant town manager/ HR director in Holden, a role she has held since 2018. Prior to joining Holden, she worked as the health director in Northborough from 2015 to 2017. She has also worked as the health director in Medway and Barre.
She said that her time in Northborough allowed her to work with town businesses, churches and schools.
She recalled discussing her desire to get into town management, which then-Town Administrator John Coderre supported. Bacon began earning her master’s while she was employed with Northborough.
Select Board member Lisa Maselli noted how long Bacon has been in her position in Holden.
“She wanted to be in Northborough, and she made an effort to come out and put a lot of time and energy into that decision. I hope she’s here for a little bit of time,” she said.
For Chair Mitch Cohen,
the decision between Bacon and Strange came down to chemistry.
“I think that we had a good chemistry with both, but even a little more with Stephanie,” he said. “I really saw a reflection of good chemistry between Steph and the staff members in the reports that we got.”
Bottle and can drive Oct. 5
SHREWSBURY – The Scout bottle and can drives are back. On Oct. 5, Troops 114 and 7114 will be hosting the drive at Town Hall from 9 a.m. to noon. During the drive, the scouts will accept redeemable bottles and cans. Proceeds will help support scouting activities throughout the year. Save the date for future drives on Feb. 15 and May 31.
DPW | from page 1 up space for other offices.
11,000-square-foot, 1950s-era Water and Sewer Garage and a 30,000-square-foot Highway Garage built in 1976.
Both buildings — particularly the Water and Sewer Garage — have major issues. At the Water and Sewer Garage, staff members share their locker room with shelves of bottled chemicals and there isn’t enough space for modern-day equipment.
The new proposal calls for a 21,600-square-foot addition to the existing 30,000-squarefoot Highway Garage. The Water and Sewer Garage would be demolished, according to the proposal. All DPW departments — including the Highway Department, Parks and Cemetery Department, and Fleet Maintenance Division — would have designated spaces in the new combined facility.
The proposed plan includes 6,400 square feet of on-site offices for DPW personnel; 30 DPW staff members currently work in about 4,000 square feet on the second floor of Town Hall. With Town Hall having its own space concerns, DPW staff moving to South Street would presumably free
Westborough ASP sponsors food drive
WESTBOROUGH – The Appalachia Service Project (ASP) will conduct a curbside food drive to benefit the Westborough Food Pantry on Saturday, Oct. 5. Leave donations curbside by 9 a.m. on Oct. 5, and ASP volunteers will pick up and deliver to the food pantry.
Suggested items include pasta sauce, tomato paste, beef stew, Chunky soups, chowders, ramen noodles, jams and jellies, cake and brownie mixes, mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, Hamburger Helper, rice pilaf, laundry detergent (small), dish detergent and bar soap.
No expired or opened items, please.
Financial donations are also welcome.
For information and how to donate, visit www.WestboroughFoodPantry.org, or Venmo @Westborough-FoodPantry
While the MFOC was originally set to consider investing in renovations to Town Hall, no such funds are included in the current plan.
The current proposal is the third design discussed at MFOC meetings as the committee worked to decrease the cost of the project while
attempting to keep all major improvements. One major change between proposals included moving the DPW offices — which once had their own “wing” of the building — to the second floor of the project.
On Sept. 24, one day after the budget was first presented, the MFOC went before the Select Board in hopes of getting
its approval to bring the plan to Town Meeting in November, when residents would decide whether to fund the project.
At the Select Board meeting, Town Manager Kevin Mizikar recommended holding off officially placing the DPW plan on the Town Meeting warrant until the town can work out the finances. The $26.8 mil-
lion estimate is an increase of about 35% over the initial estimate.
The town does not anticipate seeking a debt exclusion at this time, said Assistant Town Manager David Snowdon.
Discussion of the DPW facility will continue at future meetings.
Upcoming Events @ Julio's
Falltober Fest 2024
OCTOBER 5 • 2 – 3:30PM
A Beer & Cider Grand Tasting
Allagash Brewing Co.
Von Trapp Brewery
Amory’s Tomb
• Widow Maker
• Weihenstephaner
• Mighty Squirrel
Southern Tier Brewing Co.
• Berkshire Brewing Co.
Zero Gravity
Wormtown
• Cold Harbor
• Sam Adams
• Jack’s Abby Craft Lagers
Redemption Rock
• Proclamation Ales
Dogfish Head Shipyard Brewing Co.
Hopothecary Ales
• Angry Orchard
Downeast
Carlson Orchards
Magners Cider
• Citizen Cider
• Shacksbury Cider
• Stormalong Cider
Woodstock Inn & Brewery • Pivotal Brewing Notch Brewing
Midnight Cellars Wine Tasting
OCTOBER 10 • 7–8PM
A Midnight Cellars tasting like none other! Heather Christiansen pours 6 delicious Midnight bottles, including our very own NEW 2022 MoonCraft Red Blend. TASTING LINE-UP
NORTHBOROUGH – A comfort dog may soon be joining the Northborough Police Department.
“A comfort dog will not be involved with any sort of enforcement activities,” said Chief Brian Griffin. “This is an excel-
lent form of community policing … It’s also going to serve a need of helping people during crisis and trauma.”
Griffin and School Resource Officer Steve Sullivan went before the Select Board on Sept. 23, seeking $6,200 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to go toward the comfort dog program.
The police department has researched the program and reached out to other departments that have comfort dogs; Northborough is expecting to get the dog in early November. The department reached out to Boonfield Labradors in New Hampshire, which breeds dogs that have gone into police departments, including Berlin,
Douglas and Lunenburg. Sullivan, who has been with the department for about nine years, will be the dog’s handler.
“I think the dog going to the school resource officer is a perfect fit,” Griffin said.
Griffin said this type of program has gotten popular over the last 10 years.
“When you see a puppy
walk into the room, it’s just natural for people to gravitate to the puppy and to whoever is holding the puppy or walking the puppy. That’s what I want to see. I want to see our police officer who has that puppy … out in the community, and the community coming to the officer and having conversations,” Griffin said.
In addition to fostering positive relationships between the community and police, the program would help people who are in crisis or undergoing trauma, he said.
At New Horizons retirement community in Marlborough, our spacious residences and on-site amenities have aesthetic appeal and ensure comfort. Available housekeeping and transportation services, group activities, and delicious home-cooked meals add to the convenience.
Two-bedroom assisted living suites, including three homecooked meals daily, range from $4,200 to $4,900 per month, single occupancy. An additional occupant is only $100 per month.
The ARPA funds will “kickstart” the program, according to Griffin. In a memo to the Select Board, Griffin wrote that $3,000 will go toward purchasing the dog, $1,200 for training, $1,000 toward supplies and $1,000 toward public relations materials. It will then be part of the police department’s budget in fiscal 2026.
In addition to allocating the ARPA funds for the comfort dog program, the board also approved $10,000 in funds to replace gym equipment for the police.
“Our officers are constantly using our fitness room, which I’m very proud of. We have healthy officers who care about themselves,” Griffin said.
The funds will purchase equipment, including a cable cross machine, leg extension machine, dumbbells and a kettle bell set.
SHREWSBURY – The Shrewsbury Rotary Club will hold a community recycling fundraiser on Sunday, Oct. 6, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.at Town Hall, 100 Maple Ave.
For $40 per carload, you can recycle items such as phones, light fixtures, electrical equipment, filing cabinets, bicycles, keyboards, medical equipment and more.
Don’t have a carload? There will be single-fee charges for items such as TVs, laptops, toner cartridges and appliances with freon.
Among the items that will not be accepted — mattresses, wood, ceramics, glass, bricks and stones. For a complete list, or more information, visit https:// www.shrewsburyrotary.org/
New historic marker honors legacy of Northborough library
NORTHBOROUGH THEN NOW
By Normand Corbin History Columnist
NORTHBOROUGH – Libraries have always played an important role in Northborough history. Some form of library existed as far back as 1793. Rev. Peter Whitney mentioned, “About thirty gentlemen have united, and established a social library, containing one hundred volumes at present.” This library became incorporated with the Free Library of the First Parish Church in 1828, and renamed the Free Library of the Congregational Society in Northborough. Additional libraries were established over the years including; a Young Ladies Library in 1817, a Free Juvenile Library in 1824, and, the Agricultural Library in 1857.
The state legislature passed a law allowing cities and towns to appropriate funds to support a public library in 1851. Ten years later, Rev. Allen of Northborough gave an address in which he said, “Although this is a reading community, there is no large public library in the town; the people depend upon private or parish book clubs or libraries. A free public library supported by the town…would be a great public benefit and is a consummation devoutly to be
wished…” This was the stimulus for starting a Northborough Public Library in 1868.
The front of the original library building facing Main Street has two dates that represent milestones for the town library, 1868 and 1894. The 1868 date represents the initial funding donated by Capt. Cyrus Gale, Isaac Davis and Milo Hildreth to establish a public library that would be housed in the new town hall. The town accepted the initial donation, appropriated $150 as additional funding and appointed a board of trustees. The 1894 date is the year when Cyrus Gale Jr., son of an original library benefactor, offered land and funding for a new library building. At that time, the library had outgrown its space in the town hall. The gift was readily accepted by a special town meeting vote. The Gale Library Building was dedicated on June 12, 1895.
A new historic marker highlights the contribution of the Gale Family and that it was designed by Amos Cutting of Worcester. The library has continued to operate out of the original granite building at 34 Main Street since then. Due to space needs, an addition was added in 1975. With the continued growing needs of the facility, the 1975 addition was razed so a larger addition could be added in 2009. This author greatly appreciates information provided by Ms. Jean Langley, the long-serving retired Northborough Free Library Director. The marker was purchased using Northborough Community Preservation Act Funds.
Top: The front of the original library building facing Main Street has two dates that represent milestones for the town library, 1868 and 1894. Bottom: Robert Licht, Chair of the Northborough Historical Commission and Library Director Jennifer Bruneau hold the library’s new historic marker. (Photos/Normand Corbin)
Westborough opens part of BWALT trail
Preliminary plans would include the installation of sidewalks; a staging area for bicyclists; crosswalks; and construction of two boardwalks across the Assabet River.
The trail, which would be asphalt pavement, would go close to Sassacus Drive, the wastewater treatment plant
pump station and facilities, and on to Meadow Road. Path users would then go down Meadow, cross Milk Street, and eventually parallel Turnpike Road to Park Street.
During the question-andanswer period, several residents of Meadow Road said they were concerned about the influx of pedestrians and cyclists along their street.
Part of the new BWALT trail along West Park Drive includes a new bridge. (Photo/Maureen Sullivan)
Darlene Domingos, administrator for the wastewater treatment plant, said the proposed trail along the plant should be moved in case the plant wants to expand.
For more information on this part of the BWALT trail, or the project in general, visit https://www.westboroughma.gov/1289/PublicInfo-Meetings
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
GRAFTON – On Sunday, Sept.
29, the crowds came to the Congregational Church of Grafton UCC for its 45th annual Apple Pie Social.
There were plenty of bargains at the yard sale, a bounce
house and other activities for children, live music, raffles, a silent auction for a doll house and, of course, plenty of apple pie.
Proceeds went to benefit the church’s missions and charities.
For information about the church, visit https://www.uccgrafton.org/
Apple pies – whole and by the piece – were the main attraction at the annual social hosted by the Congregational Church of Grafton UCC (Photo/Maureen Sullivan)
By Evan Walsh Reporter
SHREWSBURY – It’s the best time of the year to be a Shrewsbury resident.
On Sept. 28, hundreds of community members gathered at Saint John’s High School for the Spirit of Shrewsbury Fall Festival, a town tradition since 1996. The event included food options, over 100 vendors and booths from local business, music, pie-eating contests, and more.
“It’s really neat to be able to get to know every single personality that’s here in this town … It’s fun. It’s just a fun event. It’s all about the kids, and I don’t think the kids get enough fun,” said Mieka Davis, the lead organizer of the event.
Then, on Sept. 29, the Spirit of Shrewsbury Parade traveled down Maple Avenue as residents watched from the streets. The procession included the Shrewsbury Police Department, Shrewsbury Fire Department, the Shrewsbury High School Marching Band, sports teams, commu-
nity businesses and groups, and town officials.
American Legion Post 397 Head Baseball Coach Frank Vaccaro and Maria Smith, a lifelong town resident and longtime organizer of the Spirit of Shrewsbury festivities, were honored as this year’s grand marshals. Smith and Vaccaro were focal points of the parade, waving to onlookers throughout the roughly one-mile-long route.
“I have to tell you, it’s still kind of surreal [to be grand marshal],” said Vaccaro. “I’ve seen the parade many times, but I never thought I’d be the grand marshal. I’m very honored. And, of course, I’m lucky to have Maria as my co-[marshal].”
“I think Shrewsbury offers so much. We’re a small town, well-run. I think the people here take a lot of pride in their town. People take the time to explore history. We also have so much to offer educationally. We’re a small town, but we’re on the cutting edge of everything,” Smith told the Community Advocate in early September.
The two-day Spirit of Shrewsbury event included foam fun (top left), coloring (bottom left), robotics (bottom right), and, of course, a parade on Sunday (top right). (Photos/Evan Walsh)
The Surprising Amount of Home Equity You’ve Gained over the Years
Elaine Quigley, CBR, CRS, GRI
Elaine.Quigley@commonmoves.com
Cell: (508) 735-5161
www.EQRE.com
There are a number of reasons you may be thinking about selling your house. And as you weigh your options, you may find you’re unsure how you’re going to deal with one thing about today’s housing market – and that’s affordability. If that’s your biggest concern, understanding how much equity you have in your house could help make your decision that much easier. Here are two key factors that have a big impact on your equity.
How Long You’ve Been in Your Home
First up is homeowner tenure. That’s how long homeowners live in a house, on average, before selling or choosing to move. From 1985 to 2009, the average length of time homeowners stayed put was roughly six years.
But according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), that number has been climbing. Now, the average tenure is 10 years (see graph top right column):
Here’s why that’s such a big deal. You gain equity as you pay down your home loan and as home prices climb. And when you combine all of your mortgage payments with how much prices have gone up over the span of 10 years, that adds up. So, if you’ve lived in your house for a while now, you may be sitting on a pile of equity.
How Home Prices Appreciate over Time
To help show how much the price appreciation piece adds up, take a look at this data from the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) (see graph below):
Here’s what this means for you. While home prices vary by area, the typical homeowner who’s been in their house for five years saw it increase in value by nearly 60%. And the average homeowner who’s owned their home for 30 years saw it more than triple in value in that time.
Whether you’re looking to downsize, relocate to a dream destination, or move so you can live closer to friends or loved ones, your equity can be a game changer.
Bottom Line
If you want to find out how much equity you’ve built up over the years and how you can use it to buy your next home, let’s connect.
MEMBER FDIC 1Annual Percentage Yields (APYs) effective as of 10/1/2024 and subject to change at any time after the account is open. The interest rate and annual percentage yield for your account depend upon the applicable rate tier. The interest rate and annual percentage yield for these tiers may change. The APY range assumes a maximum deposit of $50,000 for illustration purposes only. Fees may reduce earnings. The account does not have a maximum deposit limit.
Southborough narrowly approves MBTA zoning
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor
SOUTHBOROUGH – By a vote of 281 to 273, Southborough voters approved an article to amend the zoning bylaw to include the MBTA Communities Overlay Districts (MCOD) during Town Meeting on Sept. 30.
“We do believe that this is a step towards improving our zoning for higher density and more diverse housing,” said Planning Board member Marnie Hoolahan.
Southborough proposed three districts as part of its zoning.
“The districts proposed, we believe, will ensure a gradual impact over time; that there wouldn’t be a one-stop, ‘Let’s just develop everything right now.’ And we believe that we contribute to our community responsibility towards easing the housing crisis,” she said.
What is proposed
The Planning Board has held more than 45 meetings in
regards to MBTA zoning.
Three districts were proposed under the article.
District 1A includes 6.1 acres near Woodland Road and Blendon Woods Drive, and 1B is made up of six acres on Southville Road. District 2 is Madison Place, which is 29.5 acres, and District 3 is 14.6 acres on St. Martin Drive.
According to Hoolahan, 90% of the housing inventory in Southborough is singlefamily homes, and the average selling price is $1.1 million.
“We don’t have a lot of diversity [in the housing inventory]. We don’t have townhouses, condominiums, condos, apartments. There’s really no place to downsize,” she said.
Signed into law in 2021, the MBTA Communities Act requires 177 cities and towns to adopt zoning that allows multifamily development by right.
As part of the law, Southborough needed to zone 50 total acres, with 10 of those acres being located within a half mile of the MBTA station. The zone
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should also be located within walking distance to public transportation, bikeways and bus stops; not have any bedroom or age restrictions; and allow for a minimum gross density of 15 units per acre. Ten percent of the units within any development would be affordable, with the remaining 90% priced at market rate.
Hoolahan noted that the zoning permit process cannot be discretionary, though the town will maintain site plan control, with the major site plan review application coming before the Planning Board.
Any projects would be required to meet the town’s zoning code, including in regards to height, frontage and the minimum lot area.
Southborough is required to have the zoning in place by Dec. 31. If the zoning was not passed, the town would be ineligible and have a reduced consideration for certain grants, and there would be the possibility of civil enforcement action by the Attorney General’s Office.
Resident Freddie Gillespie, who lives on Southville Road and has worked with other residents, presented on behalf of the opposition to the bylaw. She asked Town Meeting to vote “no” and for a pause and have the bylaw return to Town Meeting before Southborough is out of compliance.
In regards to the Southville district, Gillespie said people who live near the lots were not in the room when the lots were chosen. She also said the area is the “most environmentallysensitive area in the town besides around the reservoir.”
She called for the Select Board and Planning Board to reach out to other towns that haven’t passed their MBTA zoning bylaw and go to the state and argue “that this one size doesn’t fit all.”
“What I mean by that is not the number of units and the capacity of the different areas and the dimensional, it’s some towns with small towns and villages — it’s not appropriate to have the 15 units an acre.
Period,” said Gillespie.
Gillespie and several other residents brought up Milton, saying to wait to see what is decided in the case. Attorney General Andrea Campbell filed a lawsuit against Milton after residents voted against their zoning plan.
“Something could change,” said Gillespie.
She likened zoning to an elevator.
“If an elevator ain’t quite right, you don’t get on,” Gillespie said. “If the zoning code isn’t quite right, you don’t pass it. And this ain’t right.”
RECC
Town Meeting also approved an article recommending that the Select Board exercise its authority to enter into an intermunicipal agreement with the Metrowest Regional Emergency Communications Center, which includes Westborough and Grafton.
The approval comes after a team was formed to evaluate joining a regional dispatch.
COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
REGION – Shrewsbury Public Schools and the Public Schools of Northborough and Southborough were part of 43 local education agencies that received genocide education grants.
The grants were part of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s work to bolster schools’ efforts to respond to hate crimes and support districts in selecting and/or developing curriculum, providing professional development and creating enrichment experiences related to genocide education. A total of $338,000 in hate crime prevention grants were awarded and $1.34 million in genocide education grants.
On Sept. 19, Gov. Maura Healey and Attorney General Andrea Campbell released updated guidance to K-12 schools on how to address hate and
Northborough, Southborough and Shrewsbury receive genocide education grants Do You Want To Boost Your Admissions Profile? What Can We Do For You?
“ It pains me to see the rise in antisemitism, anti-LGBTQ+ hate, racism, Islamophobia and hate happening.
Gov. Maura Healey
biased-motivated incidents consistent with their legal obligations.
Specifically, the update will help school districts distinguish between protected student speech and unprotected bullying and harassment while also reminding them of their legal obligations. The guidance also calls on districts to take affirmative steps to create safe and inclusive school environments and prevent hate and bias incidents from occurring.
“It pains me to see the rise in antisemitism, antiLGBTQ+ hate, racism, Islamophobia and hate happening
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across our state, our country, and the world. I’m particularly concerned about the prevalence of hate and violence in our schools. I know that our communities are hurting, and they are frightened,” said Healey. “Attorney General Campbell and I are issuing this guidance to send a clear message that hate has no place in Massachusetts — especially not in our schools. This guidance and these grants are giving our schools the tools they need to better prevent and respond to hate. Together, we can ensure that our schools are safe, welcoming, inclusive environments for all students.”
million less that what the schools would need to maintain level services.
The increases in the school budget — a “consistent” 5% each year — go toward salary adjustments, cover expenses for special education out-ofdistrict placements and other costs such as utilities.
“There will be significant deficits” over the next few years, said Cummings. “There’s no doubt in my mind.”
He said the main factor for the constant shortfall is the town not getting enough funds from Chapter 70 and the circuit breaker from the state.
“We need change at the state level,” he said. In the meantime, Cummings recommended the creation of two budgets — one should the override pass and
a “reduction budget” if the override is defeated.
He added that athletic, bus and other fees could be increased, but that would do little to offset the deficits.
If an override fails, and positions need to be cut (30 for fiscal 2026 alone, with an average of 22 positions for the next four fiscal years), Cummings pointed out that the town would be “on the hook” for unemployment compensation — $20,000 per position.
“These are huge worries,” said Cummings. “This isn’t a quick fix.”
Meetings will take place in October and November, with a scenario meeting planned for early December.
On the town side, there are no planned override requests at this time, according to Town Administrator Evan Brassard.
By Evan Walsh Reporter
SHREWSBURY – The School
Committee on Sept. 25 approved Policy 714, which outlines the district’s response to teen dating violence. The three-page policy specifically states that dating violence is prohibited in Shrewsbury Public Schools and defines steps to combat it.
“Shrewsbury Public Schools is committed to creating a safe, supportive, and respectful school environment. It is further committed to a climate that is free of violence and harassment among students, staff, and visitors in its schools. Shrewsbury Public Schools will not tolerate any displays of teen dating violence,” the policy reads.
The policy defines teen dating violence as “a pattern of coercive control one person exercises over another with whom they have or have had an intimate relationship.”
According to the U.S. De -
partment of Education, “research shows that about one in three U.S. teens ages 14 to 20 have been victims of dating violence and about the same number say they have committed relationship violence themselves.” Nationwide, 12% of high-school girls have been physically forced to have sexual intercourse when they did not want to.
Under Massachusetts General Law Chapter 71, Section 2C, districts “shall implement a specific policy and discipline code to address teen dating violence in public schools.”
The School Committee first reviewed the new policy during its Sept. 11 meeting. Members of the Policy Subcommittee — including Rachel Sharifipour, Erin Boucher and the town’s legal counsel — reviewed the draft and incorporated public feedback from the community.
The draft was tweaked slightly prior to its approval on Sept. 24. Whereas the original draft banned “retaliation”
against an individual that had complained of teen dating violence, the wording was expanded to add “intimidation.”
The policy also outlines “warning signs” of teen violence, which was expanded to add: “use of third parties to communicate with the partner to intimidate or control the partner’s behavior.”
Any student found responsible for teen dating violence
will be subject to disciplinary action. Allegations of dating violence outside of school may be addressed if “they are affecting the alleged victim at school” and/or if they have been “reported to the police or other authorities.”
A complaint of dating violence may be filed by an alleged victim, student, parent or caretaker, or staff member. A “safety plan” will be created for
the victim of dating violence, which may include changing class schedules and changing locker assignments.
“This is an important issue and something we take very seriously, not just because there’s a state law that says that we should. We don’t want anyone to feel harassed or that they’re experiencing violence,” said School Committee member Lynsey Heffernan.
Assabet Valley plans alumni and staff reunion
MARLBOROUGH – Assabet Valley Regional High School is planning its alumni and staff reunion for Saturday, Nov. 2, from 1 to 5 p.m.
This special event will bring together generations of former students, faculty, and staff for an afternoon of nostalgia, celebration and reconnection.
The reunion will be held on the school’s grounds, offering a chance for alumni and former staff to reminisce about
NORTHBOROUGH 508-393-2517 · LUXEELECTROLOGY.COM
their time at Assabet Valley, reconnect with old friends, and celebrate the community spirit that has made the school a cornerstone of education and vocational training in the region.
Attendees can look forward to:
• Guided tours of the building and into shops.
• Opportunities to connect with former classmates and teachers.
• Food trucks, and other treats.
• A casual event that will be inside and outside on the basketball court.
• Dozens of raffle prizes and gift baskets to give away.
• Live music performances by AV ALUMS, including a fire show.
“We’re thrilled to welcome back the many individuals who have contributed to making Assabet the school that it is today,” said Deborah Harper, alumni adviser and a 1978 graduate of Assabet Valley Regional High School. “This reunion is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on our shared history and celebrate the lasting impact our alma mater has had on the community.”
All alumni and former faculty and staff are invited to attend. To ensure adequate accommodations for all guests, please go to GoFan.com and search for Assabet Valley to purchase your tickets.
For more information, contact the reunion committee at AValumniConnect@gmail. com, or reach out to Harper at dharper@assabet.org.
LEGAL NOTICES
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SHREWSBURY
LEGAL NOTICE
In accordance with the provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 40A, Section 5, the Shrewsbury Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday, October 17, 2024 at 7:00 PM in the Shrewsbury Police Department Training Room, at 106 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts regarding proposed amendments to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw, as follows:
ARTICLE To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning Bylaw of the Town of Shrewsbury, Section VI Table I (Use Regulation Schedule), to add “Pub Brewery” to the Business Uses, “Restaurants, Indoor and Outdoor Service” and “Restaurants, Indoor service only” use cases and to replace references to “Brew Pub” with “Pub Brewery” for consistency with Massachusetts liquor licensing laws, or to take any other action in relation thereto.
ARTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning Bylaw of the Town of Shrewsbury, Section II.A (Definitions) to amend the definition of “Lot, Frontage” with regard to easements, and amend Section IV (Continuance of Existing Uses), to add a new Section IV.F to include protections for lots and structures rendered non-conforming by takings by eminent domain, or to take any other action in relation thereto.
ARTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning Bylaw of the Town of Shrewsbury, Section II.A (Definitions), Section VII.U.7 (Accessory Dwelling Units) and Section VII.C (Accessory Uses) to move the Accessory Dwelling Units provisions into the Accessory Uses section with amendments to align with the Affordable Homes Act (Chapter 150 of the Acts of 2024), or to take any other action in relation thereto.
ARTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning Bylaw of the Town of Shrewsbury, Section II.A Definitions, amend the definition of Mixed-Use Development– Vertical Mix and Mixed-Use Development–Horizontal Mix; In Section III.A Establishment of Districts, insert “Transit Oriented Development Overlay District”; In Section III.B District Intent, insert narrative describing the Transit Oriented Development Overlay (TOD) District as intended to encourage additional smart growth and transit oriented development, satisfy the requirements of MGL c. 40A, Section 3A, and contribute to the Town’s housing growth goals.; In Section III, Districts, insert in Section III.A, Establishment of Districts, a new Section VII.X to be entitled “TOD Overlay District”’; and To amend the Zoning Map of the Town of Shrewsbury by adding the TOD Overlay District as shown on the Exhibit Plan on file with the Office of the Town Clerk, or to take any other action in relation thereto.
The complete text, where applicable, may be seen during regular business hours in the Office of the Planning and Economic Development Department, the Office of the Town Clerk at the Municipal Office Building at 100 Maple Avenue and the Shrewsbury Public Library at 609 Main Street.
SHREWSBURY PLANNING BOARD
Maurice DePalo, Chairman
Stephan M. Rodolakis, Vice Chairman
Julie Holstrom, Clerk Purnachander Rao Konstantin Eliadi
The Town of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts invites qualified contractors to submit
written responses (hereinafter referred to as “bid” or “bids”) to provide historic grave marker conservation and resetting services. All contractors must submit in conformance with this Invitation for Bid and any related documents available in the Town Manager’s Office at 100 Maple Ave., Shrewsbury, 01545, 508-841-8508. Town Offices are open Mon, Wed, Thu 8:00 AM4:30 PM; Tue 8:00 AM-6:30 PM; and Fri 8:00 AM-12:00 PM.
This bid shall be governed by the requirements of MGL Chapter 30, §39M et seq. Bids shall be received by (11:00AM), on (10/23/2024), at which time they will be opened publicly and read aloud.
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40
Notice is hereby given that the Town of Shrewsbury Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing to discuss and vote to amend the Wetland Rules and Regulations associated with Article 29, the Wetlands Protection Bylaw, approved by the State Attorney General on the 14th of September 2023.
A public hearing will be held on the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, October 15, 2024, in the Selectman’s Room of Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.
To view the Town of Shrewsbury Wetland Bylaw please access the following link: https://www.shrewsburyma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/15140/
To view the current Town of Shrewsbury Wetland Regulations and Fee Schedule please access the following link: https://www.shrewsburyma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/15139/
For any questions or comments relating to the Bylaw and Regulations or attending the meeting, please email conservation@ shrewsburyma.gov or call 508-841-8502
SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Kenneth Polito, Chairman
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40
Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Donald Stowe, 209 North Quinsigamond Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA has filed a Notice of Intent for the demolition and reconstruction of a single-family home, construction of a brick pathway, and grading at 209 North Quinsigamond Avenue.
A public hearing will be held on the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, October 15, 2024, in the Selectman’s Room of Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.
SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Kenneth Polito, Chairman
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40
Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that David Calhoun, 25 Recreational Park Drive, Hingham, MA, 02043 has filed a Request for Determination of Applicability for the delineation of resource areas at 66-76, 78R, 94, and 104 Main Street and 328 North Quinsigamond Avenue.
A public hearing will be held on the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, September 17, 2024, in the Selectman’s Room of Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.
SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Kenneth Polito, Chairman
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40
Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter
131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Richard Taglienti, 167 East Main Street, Northborough, MA 01532 has filed a Notice of Intent for the after the fact permitting of the installation of a shed, deck, stairs, cabana, dock and associated site work at 11 Sunset Lane.
A public hearing will be held on the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, October 15, 2024, in the Selectman’s Room of Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.
SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Kenneth Polito, Chairman
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40
Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Raghvendra Cowlagi, 22 Whippoorwill Drive, Shrewsbury, MA has filed a Notice of Intent for the construction of an addition at 22 Whippoorwill Drive.
A public hearing will be held on the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, October 15, 2024, in the Selectman’s Room of Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.
SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION
COMMISSION
Kenneth Polito, Chairman
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40
Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Steve Lussier, 201 North Quinsigamond Avenue, Shrewsbury, has filed a Request for Determination of Applicability for the removal of trees at 201 North Quinsigamond Avenue.
A public hearing will be held on the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, September 17, 2024, in the Selectman’s Room of Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.
SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Kenneth Polito, Chairman
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40
Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Nick Aoude, 235 Boylston Street, Shrewsbury, MA, has filed a Request for Determination of Applicability for the installation of a septic system associated with a proposed pizza restaurant at 299 Hartford Turnpike.
A public hearing will be held on the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, September 17, 2024, in the Selectman’s Room of Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.
SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Kenneth Polito, Chairman
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40
Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Nicole Saint Cyr, of National Homes Executives, 349 Crawford Street, Northborough, MA 01532 has filed a Notice of Intent for the construction of a duplex and associated site improvements at 4 Sterling Street.
A public hearing will be held on the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, October 15, 2024, in the Selectman’s Room of Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.
SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Kenneth Polito, Chairman
The Town of Shrewsbury DPW, 100 Maple Ave., Shrewsbury MA 01545 (“the Town”), invites the submission of responses for the project Crescent Street Sidewalk Improvements 2024, in the Town of Shrewsbury. The IFB may be obtained by visiting the Town’s website www.shrewsburyma.gov/ bids, beginning on October 2nd, 2024. Responses will be received until 11:00 AM local time, October 17th, 2024; by mailing proposals to the Town Manager’s office at 100 Maple Ave., Shrewsbury MA 01545, with submissions clearly marked “Crescent Street Sidewalk Improvements 2024”. All submissions shall comply with the specification issued by the Town of Shrewsbury, including, without limitation, all qualifications and submission requirements. The Town reserves the right to waive any informality in or to reject any, any part of, or all responses in the best interest of the Town. Contract award is subject to appropriation and award by the Shrewsbury Select Board. Any Response submitted will be binding for thirty (30) days subsequent to the time of opening.
HUDSON
LEGAL NOTICE
Town of Hudson
Public Notice of Hearing
In accordance with the provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 40A, § 5, the Hudson Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at 7 PM in the Hudson Senior Center meeting room at 29 Church Street, Hudson, MA, on whether the Town will vote to amend the Protective Zoning By-Laws to:
Amend the following within Section 5.2.6 Accessory Dwelling Units:
1. Strike the language within Section 5.2.6.2 (6) in its entirety
2. Strike the language within Section 5.2.6.2 (7) in its entirety
3. Strike the language within Section 5.2.6.3 (1) in its entirety and replace with the following language: A Building Permit application for an Accessory Dwelling Unit shall be filed with the Building Commissioner
4. Strike the language within Section 5.2.6.3 (2) and replace with the following language: The Accessory Dwelling Unit shall comply with dimensional standards in Section 7.3 and Section 7.2.1.3 and relief from thereof shall not be granted except as noted in Section 5.2.6.4 (1)
5. Strike the language within Section 5.2.6.4. 1. and replace with the following language: The Building Commissioner shall issue a Building Permit authorizing the installation and use of an accessory dwelling unit in a single-family home or lot provided the following conditions are met
6. Strike the language within Section 5.2.6.4. 1. (a) and replace with the following language: The accessory dwelling may be located in the single-family dwelling
7. Strike the language within Section 5.2.6.4. 1. (b) and replace with the following language: The single-family dwelling may be altered to include an accessory dwelling unit
8. Strike the language within Section 5.2.6.4. 1. (c) and replace with the following language: The accessory dwelling unit shall consist of a complete, separate housekeeping unit containing both kitchen and bath
9. Strike the language within Section 5.2.6.4. 1. (d) in its entirety and replace with the following language: Pursuant to MGL Chapter 40A Section 3A, more than one accessory dwelling unit within a single-family home or house lot shall require a Special Permit from the Zoning Board of Appeals pursuant to MGL Chapter 40A Section 9 and Section 9.2 of the Hudson Zoning By-laws
10. Strike the language within Section 5.2.6.4. 1. (e) in its entirety.
11. Strike the language within Section 5.2.6.4. 1. (g) in its entirety and replace with the following language: The habitable area of the accessory dwelling shall not exceed ½ the gross floor area of the principal dwelling or 900 square feet, whichever is smaller
12. Strike the language within Section 5.2.6.4. 1. (h) and replace with the following language: An accessory dwelling unit may not have more than two bedrooms
13. Strike the word two and replace with the word one in the first sentence of Section 5.2.6.4 1. (j)
14. Add a new Section 5.2.6.4.1. (l) with the following language: The use of the accessory dwelling unit for short-term rentals, as defined in MGL Chapter 64G Section 1, shall be prohibited
15. Add the following language before the first sentence in Section 5.2.6.4. 2.: The accessory dwelling unit shall comply with the dimensional requirements pursuant to Section 7.3 and Section 7.2.1.3 of this By-law
16. Strike the language within Section 5.2.6.4. 3. in its entirety.
17. Strike the language within Section 5.2.6.4 4. in its entirety.
18. Strike the language within Section 5.2.6.4. 5. in its entirety.
19. Strike the words “special permit” and replace with the words “building permit” in Section 5.2.6.4.6.
20. Strike the language within Section 5.2.6.5 (5) in its entirety and replace with the following language: Construction or use according to the building permit shall conform to any subsequent amendments to these provisions, MGL Chapter 40A, and/ or Massachusetts Building Code unless the construction or use is begun within a period of not more than six months after the issuance of the building permit before the effective date of the amendments. To qualify for the exemption, construction must be completed in a continuous and expeditious manner
21. Strike the word ZBA in the R60, R40, R30, and R15 single-family residential districts and replace with Y in the Table of Use Regulations for Accessory Dwelling Units
OR TO TAKE ANY OTHER ACTION RELATED THERETO
The text and plan of this article is on file with the Town Clerk and the Office of Planning and Community Development at 78 Main Street, Hudson, MA, and may be inspected during normal business hours upon appointment. For more information, contact the Department of Planning and Community Development at (978) 5622989 or via email at kjohnson@townofhudson.org
Publication Dates: Community Advocate, September 27, 2024 and October 4, 2024.
A Public Hearing will be held on said petition at Hudson Senior Center meeting room at 29 Church Street, Hudson, MA, at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, October 15, 2024 Planning Board Chair Robert D’Amelio
LEGAL NOTICE Town of Hudson Public Notice of Hearing
In accordance with the provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 40A, § 5, the Hudson Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at 7 PM in the Hudson Senior Center meeting room at 29 Church Street, Hudson, MA, on whether the Town will vote to amend the Protective Zoning By-Laws to:
Update the current Official Zoning Map of the Town of Hudson, Massachusetts, dated November 2023:
• Reinsert three district boundaries –Southwesterly R15, West central NB, and Southcentral NB; Correct mislabeling of the Northeasterly portion of MH to MR, Central IA to NB, Central GB1 to NB, and portion;
• Update title to Official Zoning Map of the Town of Hudson, Massachusetts Dated November 2024.
OR TO TAKE ANY OTHER ACTION RELATED THERETO.
Notes: This Article does not change or alter the existing Zoning District boundaries or use regulations.
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
Aldrich, Kathleen of Northborough Benoit, Mary of Westborough Charpentier, David of Worcester and Grafton Clarke, Judith of Northborough Cole, Arthur formerly of Northborough Davis, George of Hudson DeJoinville, Robert of Shrewsbury Ferrara, Samuel of Westborough Figueiredo Sousa, Maria of Hudson Hare, Robert of Westborough Jackowitz, Ronald of Shrewsbury Jobes, Gary of Northborough Maloney, Lawrence of Westborough Marsh, Joanne of Shrewsbury Morrison, Shirley of Marlborough Revelli, Marilyn formerly of Northborough Seymour, Mary of Shrewsbury Tarantino, Gisele of Grafton Wilhelmi, Cecile of Shrewsbury
Ronald N. Jackowitz, 85
SHREWSBURY - Ronald “Ron” Jackowitz passed away Sunday, September 1st, 2024, after having resided in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts for ten years after spending all his prior years in New Jersey. He was married to Jackie Jackowitz, who was also a Sussex County resident. They had been married for sixty-three years. Their children, Todd and Tobi, both graduated from Pope John High School, where Ron coached JV basketball in his spare time. Ron leaves five grandchildren, William Jackowitz, Annie Jackowitz, Elizabeth Jackowitz, Megan Russell, and Kevin Russell.
The Britton Funeral Home of Shrewsbury assisted with arrangements.
Gary L. Jobes, 82
NORTHBOROUGH - Gary L. Jobes, A lifelong resident of Northborough and a proud U.S. Navy Seabee veteran, passed away on Tuesday, September 17 2024, after many years of battling Alzheimer’s disease. Gary celebrated his 82nd birthday on April 17. Gary was the oldest of two children of the late Charles L Jobes and Mildred (Beauregard) Jobes.
Surviving Gary is his wife of 56 years, Linda (Harris) Jobes; a daughter Debbi Jobes of Northborough, and a son Steven L Jobes and his wife Pam Jobes of Northborough; his sister Judy Emmons of Burlington, NC, two grandchildren John Arter and Travis Jobes, and one great granddaughter.
To honor Gary’s wishes, there will be no services at this time.
Arthur Cole, 95
WORCESTER - Arthur Cole, 95, of Worcester, formerly of Northborough, passed away peacefully on the morning of Sept 18, 2024, with loving members of
his family by his side.
Arthur was born in Worcester on April 16, 1929, son of the late F. Everett Cole and Ruth (Emerson) Cole.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 73 years, Barbara (Tobin) Cole; four loving children, John Cole and his wife Martha, of Trenton, ME, Nancy Cole and her husband Peter Rodegast of West Tisbury, David Cole and his wife Kimberly Foster, of Boylston, Peter Cole and his wife Vanessa, of Leominster; three adoring grandsons, Ian Cole and his wife Norma Madrid of NH, Stuart Rodegast of West Tisbury, and Nicholas Cole of Leominster; three cherished granddaughters, Katie Cole and her partner Fred Smigiel, of NH, Emily Rodegast and her partner Russom Woldezghi, of Washington DC, and Erin O’Brien and her husband William, of NY; one great-grandson Sampson and one great grand-daughter Ada, both of Washington, DC., and
several nieces and nephews. Arthur was pre-deceased by two sisters, Margie and Evy, both of CA, and two brothers, Paul of Nassau, Bahamas, and Calvin of NC.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Hays Funeral Home.
Lawrence D. Maloney, 78
WESTBOROUGH - Lawrence D. Maloney, 78, of Westborough, MA passed away on September 22, 2024, surrounded by his family.
Born February 13, 1946 in Kittanning, PA, Larry was the youngest of seven children of John C. and Ida Mae (DeTemple) Maloney.
In 1973, Larry married the one true love of his life, Valarie (Simmons) Maloney. They are the proud parents of two sons, Lucas and Evan. Besides his immediate family, Larry is survived by daughter-in-law Jamie Havlin, sister-in-law Gloria Maloney Sgro and some 50 nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and all his siblings: John, James, Joseph, Richard, David and Patricia.
The Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
Samuel A. Ferrara, 78
WESTBOROUGH - Samuel A. Ferrara, a man whose heart and soul echoed with the rhythms of the railroads and their storied past, was called to eternal rest recently, at the age of 78, in the town of Westborough, Massachusetts. Although a Rochester, New York native his whole life, he and his wife had recently moved to Massachusetts to be closer to their daughter.
Samuel’s life was a living prayer, shared with his beloved wife, Linda, and his cherished daughter, Stephanie, her husband, Kevin and his treasured granddaughters, Olivia and Ava. He was lovingly ushered into the arms of his Creator, joining his parents, Sam and Theresa Ferrara, who had preceded him in the journey to the
Scan QR code to read all of this week’s obituaries on our website.
heavenly kingdom.
The Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
Mary V. Benoit, 94
WESTBOROUGH - Mary V. Benoit, 94, of Westborough, passed away on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at home surrounded by her loving family. Born in Framingham, she was the daughter of the late Thomas and Mary (Cuddy) Malloy.
Mary is survived by five children, Charles M. Benoit and his wife, Tina, of Brasher Falls, NY, Sheila M. Wenc of West Brookfield, Donna M. Perry of Westborough, Paula Hogan and her husband, Lawrence, of Northborough and Vincent P. Benoit and his wife, Sheila, of West Brookfield: ten grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and one great, great-grandchild.
She also leaves many nieces, nephews, cousins, and their children whom she dearly loved as well.
She was the mother of the late Francis X. Benoit, motherin-law of the late Francis Wenc and George Perry and sister of the late Thomas Malloy, John Malloy, Margaret Desilets and Helen Smith.
The Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
Gisele Tarantino, 93
GRAFTON - Gisele “Sis” Tarantino passed away peacefully on Monday September 16th, 2024. Gisele was born on May 7th, 1931, the daughter of Leo and Edna Gaulin (Beaudoin). She had one sister: Rachel, and four brothers: Gabe, Roger, Norman and Nester.
Gisele is survived by her three sons: Keith, Bruce and Todd, and her daughter-in-law Coleen. She was blessed with two grandchildren: Megan and Anna, as well as two great grandchildren in Tripp and Kira.
Roney Funeral Home of North Grafton assisted with arrangements.
Robert E. DeJoinville, 81
SHREWSBURY - Robert “Bob” DeJoinville of Shrewsbury, MA died peacefully on Thursday, September 12, 2024 at the age of 81. Bob is survived by his children, Christina Marcos and her husband Nathan of Sammamish, WA and Tobias DeJoinville of AZ; six grandchildren, Jon, Erica, Melissa, Lincoln, Oona, and Romy; his sister and brotherin-law, Carol and Roger Leroux of Shrewsbury, MA and his brother Joseph DeJoinville Jr. of Tuttle, OK. Bob was predeceased by his parents Joseph and Florence (Lundquist) DeJoinville as well as his sister and brother-in-law, Joanne and “Dickie” Pike.
A memorial service will be planned for a future date and announced.
The Britton Funeral Home of Shrewsbury assisted with arrangements.
Cecile T. Wilhelmi, 90
SHREWSBURY/SOUTH YARMOUTH - Cecile Teresa (Dumas) Wilhelmi, 90, of Shrewsbury and South Yarmouth, passed away on Saturday, September 21, 2024. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Robert J. Wilhelmi, in 2016; and their cherished daughter, Denise A. Wilhelmi, who passed in 2020.
Cecile is survived by her devoted children: Paul J. Wilhelmi and his wife Donna, of South Grafton, John E. “Jack” Wilhelmi and his wife Cristine, of Worcester, Dianne M. Schiavone, of Worcester, and her partner Gerard Tozeski of Shrewsbury, Karl L. Wilhelmi, of Barre, and Robert P. Wilhelmi and his wife Shelly, of Worcester; ten cherished grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren; her sisters, Pauline Rourke, of Worcester, and Marcelle Carter, of Shrewsbury; along with many nieces and nephews. She was also predeceased by her siblings, Madeleine Corwin, Robert Dumas, Leo Dumas, and Jeanne Hurley.
The Briton Funeral Home of Shrewsbury assisted with arrangements.
COMMUNITY CLASSIFIED
COMMUNITY CLASSIFIED
BJ’s Wholesale
LEGAL NOTICES
Legal Notices | from page 20
The text and plan of this article are on file with the Town Clerk and the Office of Planning and Community Development at 78 Main Street, Hudson, and may be inspected during normal business hours upon appointment. For more information, contact the Department of Planning and Community Development at (978) 562-2989 or via email at kjohnson@townofhudson.org
Publication Dates: Community Advocate, September 27, 2024 and October 4, 2024.
A Public Hearing will be held on said petition at the Hudson Senior Center meeting room at 29 Church Street, Hudson, MA, at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, October 15, 2024
Planning Board Chair Robert D’Amelio
LEGAL NOTICE
Town of Hudson
Public Notice of Hearing
In accordance with the provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 40A, § 5, the Hudson Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at 7 PM in the Hudson Senior Center meeting room at 29 Church Street, Hudson, MA, on whether the Town will vote to amend the Protective Zoning By-Laws to:
Update the following section numbers:
a. Section 5.2 “Residential Districts” now Section 5.4 “Residential Districts” including all subsections;
b. Section 5.3 “Commercial Districts” now Section 5.5 “Commercial Districts” including all subsections;
c. Section 5.4 “DB Zoning District” now Section 5.6 “DB Zoning District” including all subsections;
d. Section 5.4 “Limited Commer-
cial and Light Industrial Distrcit (LCLI)” now Section 5.7 “Limited Commercial and Light Industrial District (LCLI)” including all subsections – with spelling correction of “District”;
e. Section 5.5 “Industrial Districts” now Section 5.8 “Industrial Districts” including all subsections;
f. Section 5.6 “Open Space Residential Development” now Section 5.9 Open Space Residential Development” including all subsections;
g. Section 6.2 “Floodplain/Wetland District” now Section 6.1 “Floodplain/Wetland District” including all subsections;
h. Section 6.3 “Retirement Community Overlay District” now Section 6.2 “Retirement Community Overlay District” including all subsections;
i. Section 6.4 “Wireless Community Facilities” now Section 6.3 “Wireless Community Facilities” including all subsections;
j. Section 6.5 “Adaptive Re-Use Overlay District” now Section 6.4 “Adaptive Re-Use Overlay District” including all subsections;
k. Section 6.6 “Temporary Moratorium on Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers and The Sale & Distribution of Drug Paraphernalia” now Section 6.5 “Temporary Moratorium on Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers and The Sale & Distribution of Drug Paraphernalia” including all subsections;
l. Section 6.7 “Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers Overlay District” now Section 6.6 “Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers Overlay District” including all subsections;
May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, pray for us. St. Jude, worker of miracles, pray for us. St. Jude, the helper of the hopeless, pray for us. Say this nine times a day, for nine days and your prayers will be answered. It has never been known to fail. Publication is necessary. My prayers were and are being answered.
m. Section 6.8 “Recreational Marijuana Overlay District” now Section 6.7 “Recreational Marijuana Overlay District” including all subsections; n. Section 6.9 “Marijuana Industrial Overlay District” now Section 6.8 “Marijuana Industrial Overlay District” including all subsections;
1. Update Section 5.2.1 with the November 2024 map date and replace Appendix A with the November 2024 map.
2. Add Neighborhood Business District (“NB”) to “Table 1 - Intensity Schedule”.
3. Correct scrivener’s errors and grammatical errors which are not substantive in nature and do not affect the content or intent of by-laws.
OR TO TAKE ANY OTHER ACTION RELATIVE THERETO.
Notes: This is a housekeeping action that simply reorganizes the location and renumbers certain sections of the Hudson Protective Zoning By-laws as noted above.
The text and plan of this article are on file with the Town Clerk and the Office of Planning and Community Development at 78 Main Street, Hudson, and may be inspected during normal business hours upon appointment. For more information, contact the Department of Planning and Community Development at (978) 562-2989 or via email at kjohnson@townofhudson.org
Publication Dates: Community Advocate, September 27, 2024 and October 4, 2024.
A Public Hearing will be held on said petition at the Hudson Senior Center meeting room at 29 Church Street, Hudson, MA, at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, October 15, 2024 Planning Board Chair Robert D’Amelio
ough-ma.gov/mcda under Affordable Housing > Apply for Housing > Forms & Applications.
Income eligibility requirements.
Section 8 Vouchers are welcome.
*Rents for voucher holders determined by the subsidizing agency.
Available Immediately
It is unlawful to discriminate against any person because of race, color, religion, familiar status, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability, veteran’s status, national origin or ancestry.
POLICE FIRE&
Celebration kicks off new Westborough Fire Foundation
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – It’s not every day you see a Fire Department ladder truck in front of Arturo’s Ristorante.
Then again, it’s not every day you celebrate the kickoff of a new charitable foundation.
On Sunday, Sept. 29, nearly 150 guests attended a kickoff event for the new Westborough Fire Foundation, which will provide funding to support the needs of the Fire Department.
“This is a great program. Anything to help the firefighters,” said Adam Boyce, the vice president of the new foundation.
According to Fire Chief Patrick Purcell, the foundation’s first priorities would be to “establish some health and safety programs” for personnel.
“It’s a great thing,” said Barry Sullivan, a fire lieutenant and member of the foundation’s board of directors. “This will benefit the town as well.”
According to its mission statement, the foundation would assist in providing life safety equipment, and “provide opportunities to see that our department can provide the best training opportunities possible.”
Just outside the restaurant, fire personnel brought Truck 1 and Engine 4 for guests to view.
Grafton
Sunday, Sept. 15
7:57 a.m. Westboro Rd. Fire – gas odor.
3:17 p.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/identity theft.
Monday, Sept. 16
8:48 a.m. Blanchard Rd. Recovered property.
12:57 p.m. Stowell Rd. Fire – brush.
2:43 p.m. Providence Rd. Harassment.
“This will open a few doors for us,” said firefighter Sean Doherty of the foundation.
Inside, guests took part in a silent auction while chatting and watching the Patriots game.
To learn more about the organization, visit https:// www.westboroughfirefoundation.org/
Fire in solar array burns through roof
By Ron Ayotte Contributing Writer
MARLBOROUGH – Marlborough firefighters responded to a structure fire, and crews reported a fire in a solar panel array.
The Marlborough Fire Department was dispatched to a structure fire at 46 Barnard Road.
The fire was reported at 2:12 p.m. Sept. 30. Engines 4, 2, 3 Truck 1, Rescue 1, Squad 1, Car 5, Cars 2 and 3 responded, along with K-1 (the fire inspector).
The first due engine company reported a fire in the solar panel array that had burned through the roof and into the attic space. A rapid fire attack was initiated,
The Marlborough Fire Department responded to a house fire on Barnard Road. (photos/Ron Ayotte)
3:59 p.m. Main St./Providence Rd. Accident – no injuries.
5:15 p.m. Providence Rd. Scam/attempted scam.
6:26 p.m. Upton St. Accident – no injuries.
Tuesday, Sept. 17
7:30 a.m. Arrested, Orion Hunter Young, 20, of 20 Murray Ave., Apt. 1, South Grafton, on straight warrant, default warrant.
8:35 a.m. North St. Animal complaint.
10:34 a.m. Mary Ann Dr. Wires down.
10:51 a.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/identity theft.
Wednesday, Sept. 18
9:13 a.m. Wheeler Rd. Larceny/theft.
1:13 p.m. Providence Rd. Annoying phone calls.
1:52 p.m. Providence Rd. Scam/attempted scam.
Thursday, Sept. 19
8:24 a.m. Old Westboro Rd./Wesson St. Accident – no injuries.
12:28 p.m. Pine St. Vandalism.
4:45 p.m. North St./Grafton Com. Accident – hit & run.
6:57 p.m. Worcester St. Larceny/theft.
Friday, Sept. 20
8:15 a.m. Browns/Old Upton Rds. Wires down.
9:57 a.m. Worcester St. Accident – no injuries.
12:29 p.m. Magill Dr. Accident – no injuries.
1:28 p.m. Main St. Road hazard.
4:14 p.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/identity theft.
5:41 p.m. Upton St. Accident – no injuries.
6:27 p.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/identity theft.
6:38 p.m. Arrested, Melissa Jean Pichette, 67, of 47 Wesson St., N Grafton, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle. Saturday, Sept. 21
3:58 p.m. Wesson/North Sts. Road hazard.
Shrewsbury
Friday, Sept. 20
9:28 a.m. Walnut St. Threats.
with a hose line deployed through the front door and into the attic.
The fire was quickly knocked down. MFD crews checked the attic for further fire extension.
A neighbor had reported that the house was vacant for a couple of weeks and was recently rented.
The power company and the city’s electrical inspector were requested to the scene.
Southborough Fire Engine 22 and one of their ambulances responded to the working fire and provided the Rapid Intervention Team. Hudson and Northborough Fire Departments provided coverage for Marlborough’s stations. Patriot EMS was also on scene.
Damage estimates were not available.
Westborough Fire’s Truck 1 pays a visit to Arturo’s Ristorante during the kickoff for the Fire Foundation on Sunday, Sept. 29, at Arturo’s Ristorante. (Photo/Maureen Sullivan)
10:38 p.m. Overlook Ave. Animal complaint.
2:54 p.m. Prospect St. Animal complaint.
5:09 p.m. Canna Dr. Road hazard –trees/wires/debris.
8:49 p.m. Maple Ave. Animal complaint.
11:50 p.m. Arrested , Angie Marie Batista, 43, of 29 Bennett St., Hudson, for OUI liquor.
Saturday, Sept. 21
7:07 a.m. Beach Rd. Animal complaint.
11:29 a.m. Old Mill Rd./Harrington Ave. Road hazard – trees/wires/debris.
5:46 p.m. Arrested , Melissa Anne Ricketts, 57, of 35 Harrington Ave., Unit 2418, Shrewsbury, for OUI liquor, marked lanes violation.
Monday, Sept. 23
6:38 a.m. View St. Animal complaint.
7:42 p.m. Venus Dr. Dispute.
9:45 a.m. Spring Meadow Dr. Animal complaint.
12:25 p.m. Hillcrest Ave. Larceny.
1:56 p.m. Spring Meadow Dr. Animal complaint.
2:10 p.m. Maple Ave. Larceny.
Tuesday, Sept. 24
7:17 a.m. South Quinsigamond/Ridgeland Rd. Animal complaint.
7:18 a.m. Arrested, Frank O. Boateng, 30, of 25 Queen St., Worcester, for shoplifting by asportation.
5:50 p.m. Knowlton Ave. Animal complaint.
Northborough
Thursday, Sept. 19
6:54 a.m. Arrested, Celso D. Gomez, 26, of 43 Riverlin St., Millbury, for op MV with license suspended subsequent offense, op MV with license suspended for OUI/CDL/MVH.
3:26 p.m. Main St. Accident: P.I.
3:57 p.m. Sunset Dr. Fraud.
5:34 p.m. Arrested, Haley C. Evans, 30, of 42 Richards St., Worcester, on warrant.
5:56 p.m. Tomahawk Dr. Fraud.
Saturday, Sept. 21
12:34 a.m. Whitney St. Vandalism.
1:24 p.m. Avalon Dr. Fraud.
3:42 p.m. Main St. Illegal dumping/ littering.
4:23 p.m. Ball St. Accident: P.D.
Sunday, Sept. 22
9:28 p.m. Avalon Dr. Vandalism.
Monday, Sept. 23
9:16 a.m. Southwest Cut/Belmont St. Accident: P.D.
11:57 a.m. Shops Way. Larceny.
10:22 p.m. Arrested , Chase Dailey, 43, of 640 Broad St., Providence, RI, on warrant.
Tuesday, Sept. 24
11:12 a.m. Church St. Vandalism.
12:12 p.m. Orchard Cir. Hit and run.
2:00 p.m. Brigham St. Accident: P.D.
10:02 p.m. Arrested , William Austin
Joseph Frost, 21, of 27 Lenbob Ave., Thompson, CT, for improper operation of motor vehicle, negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08%.
Wednesday, Sept. 25
8:41 a.m. Lyman St./Westboro. Animal calls.
6:40 p.m. South St./Northgate Rd. Dog complaint.
7:53 p.m. Southwest Cut/Davis St.
Animal calls.
9:38 p.m. Beeman Rd. Accident: P.D.
Marlborough
Thursday, Sept. 19
8:52 a.m. Hilton Garden Inn/Forest St. MVA property damage only.
11:40 a.m. Citizens Bank/South Bolton St. MVA property damage only.
12:08 p.m. The Burrow (1st Building)/ Green District Blvd. MVA property damage only.
4:55 p.m. Kane Elementary School/Farm Rd. MVA with injuries.
5:44 p.m. Marlborough Hospital/Union St. Fraud/forgery.
7:18 p.m. Fre Kicks/Forest St. MVA property damage only.
Friday, Sept. 20
2:34 a.m. Apex Dr. Suspicious MV.
11:29 a.m. Residences at Solomon Pond/Donald J. Lynch Blvd. Fraud/ forgery.
11:36 a.m. West Main St. Vandalism.
12:38 p.m. Mechanic St. Auto theft.
1:44 p.m. Concord Rd. Fraud/forgery.
3:04 p.m. Goodnow Brothers Elementary School/Bolton St. Threats.
9:56 a.m. Assabet Construction Services Inc./Mechanic St. MVA property damage only.
11:19 a.m. Old Charter Rd. Larceny.
1:05 p.m. Auto Zone/East Main St. Trespassing.
2:45 p.m. Spoonhill Ave. Fraud/forgery.
3:59 p.m. Concord Rd. Fraud/forgery.
7:28 p.m. Neil St. MVA property damage only.
Southborough
Sunday, Sept. 8
2:44 a.m. Arrested, Bruno Silva Sousa, of Chestnut St., Marlborough, for marked lanes violation, speeding/speed exceeding posted limit, OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle.
3:15 a.m. Arrested, Juan Moreno, of
POLICE LOG
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.
11:54 p.m. Arrested, Edom Seyoum, of Nashua St., Boston, for OUI-liquor or .08% 2nd offense, negligent operation of motor vehicle, speeding/rate of speed exceeding posted limit.
Sunday, Sept. 15
7:49 a.m. Turnpike Rd. MVA property damage only.
Monday, Sept. 16
10:37 a.m. Marlboro Rd. Trespassing notice.
12:32 p.m. Cordaville Rd. Trespassing notice.
12:37 p.m. Oak Hill Rd. Larceny/forgery/ fraud.
2:08 p.m. Southville Rd. Complaint.
Tuesday, Sept. 17
12:22 p.m. Liberty Dr. Threats investigation.
1:21 p.m. Pine Hill Rd. Threats investigation.
Wednesday, Sept. 18
10:20 a.m. Oregon Rd. Larceny/forgery/ fraud.
1:45 p.m. Cordaville Rd. Erratic operator.
8:31 p.m. Boston Rd./Central St. Motor vehicle accident.
4:34 p.m. Northboro/Jericho Hill Rds. MVA property damage only.
8:52 p.m. Turnpike Rd. Larceny/forgery/ fraud.
Friday, Sept. 20
5:34 p.m. Arrested, Kevin M. Vandergrift, of Connector Rd., Westborough, for op MV with license suspended, unregistered motor vehicle.
Saturday, Sept. 21
10:02 a.m. Arrested, Angel M. Morales, of Quinbaug Rd., Dudley, for op MV with license suspended, unregistered motor vehicle, number plate violation to conceal ID, uninsured motor vehicle.
Back-to-back champion Westborough volleyball off to strong start
By Evan Walsh Reporter
WESTBOROUGH – It’s almost impossible to adequately describe Westborough volleyball’s dominance in words, so numbers must suffice.
In a span of three years — from the fall of 2021, when this year’s seniors first entered high school, to Sept. 26, when the team played Shepherd Hill — the Rangers recorded 69 wins and only two losses. In that time, Westborough completed two undefeated regular seasons (2021, 2022), qualified for the MIAA Division 2 championship game every opportunity it had, and won back-to-back championships (2022, 2023).
But that’s not all. When Westborough welcomed Shepherd Hill to town on Sept. 26 — and promptly defeated the team in straight sets — it marked the Rangers’ 47th
consecutive win at home. It was Westborough Head Coach Roger Anderson’s 433rd career victory; over his 26-year tenure with the Rangers, he’s put about a half-dozen champion-
A
Westborough’s Grace Hadley (left) and Hailey Lenkauskas (right) stretch upward to block the ball. (Photo/ Evan Walsh)
ship banners (both volleyball and boys outdoor track, which he also coaches) in the Fisher Gym rafters.
The win against Shepherd Hill brought Westborough’s current record to 7-0, and while the team has big plans for this season, the Rangers are very deliberately choosing to focus on the small details: concentrating on growing with every match, every set, every point, and every minute of practice. In the middle of unprecedented success, Anderson’s players focus on improvement, not history.
“We are just going back and asking ourselves what we can do during every point, every day, every minute to get better. We work hard on being intentional in practice, so that every minute we’re there has value. We try hard to stay off the outcome and focus on the
process. That’s what gives us the best chance to have the outcome we want,” Anderson told the Community Advocate after the Shepherd Hill match.
Westborough is featuring some new faces this year, replacing several seniors who graduated last spring. Anderson’s daughter, Quinn, now plays at Division 1 Stony Brook University after becoming a two-time Gatorade Volleyball Player of the Year with Westborough; Addison Moore, last year’s starting libero, also graduated. New players — like Grace Hadley, Kathleen O’Reilly, Katie Xia and Anvi Arora — have stepped into bigger roles.
The Rangers’ seemingly endless influx of talented players begs the question — what’s in the water in Westborough?
According to Anderson, it just comes down to building
strong teams with excellent leaders.
“It’s just a matter of the girls on the team inspiring the younger girls on the team. Those girls then inspire the younger girls that are sitting in the stands watching. The players want to come here, they want to get better, and they work really hard every day in practice. We try to take them from where they are and make them better every day,” he said.
And as players shift from back-up to starting roles, the team’s captains — Georgia Tyrrell, Sam Norman and Mia Grandin — are making sure the newer players feel at home. Developing team chemistry, the captains agreed, is key to keeping Westborough volleyball strong today and for years to come.
“I think [some players] are new to varsity, but in general, they’ve been in our program for a while so we’ve gotten to know them. We’ve done bonding things with them. I think they’re gelling really well. A lot of them are working really hard and they’re getting court time, too,” said Tyrrell.
The match against Shepherd Hill went just about how Westborough had hoped. Although the Rams came out strong and led Westborough for much of the opening set, the Rangers won 25-23 and cruised through the subsequent sets (25-11, 25-14) to take home the 3-0 victory. It was the first in a series of strong matches from Westborough: The Rangers beat Dennis-Yarmouth on Sept. 27 and defeated Bishop Feehan on Sept. 30.
Saint John’s football exacts revenge on Shrewsbury
By Evan Walsh Reporter
SHREWSBURY – Though Saint John’s holds a significant lead in this all-time series, it hadn’t felt like that recently around town. In both 2022 and 2023, the intra-town rival Shrewsbury High School football team found ways to eke out close wins against the Pioneers. Two years ago, Shrewsbury scored with 97 seconds left to pull ahead. Last year, the Colonials came away with a 13-10 win after scoring with only 14 seconds remaining.
So, with a scheduled bye week prior to the Sept. 27 rematch against Shrewsbury, the Pioneers were laser-focused.
“They’re our cross-town rivals. I remember being a freshman playing against Shrewsbury, so the rivalry runs that far and that deep. For me, the moment that we had that bye week, we were focused on Shrewsbury. We had two weeks of focus to prepare for this game. Body, physical, mental, and execution-wise,” secondyear Saint John’s Head Coach John Vassar told reporters after the game. Vassar graduated from Saint John’s in 2011.
The preparation paid dividends for the Pioneers, who made the one-mile trek to David J. Adams Memorial Field and defeated their rivals 21-13. After tough losses to Leominster and La Salle Academy (R.I.), the win against Shrewsbury was also Saint John’s first victory of the season. Shrewsbury’s record drops to 0-3.
“[The first win] feels amaz-
Shrewsbury’s Ethan LePoer gets behind the defense and reels in a pass from Andrew Vincequere.
(Photos/Evan Walsh)
quarter to drive down the field, ultimately scoring a touchdown on a one-yard quarterback sneak by Vincequere. However, the extra point doinked off the left post, allowing the Pioneers to maintain a slim, one-point lead heading into the final quarter.
It took the Pioneers less than three minutes to match Shrews-
ing. You’re always searching for that first win, and it just came a little bit later this year,” said Vassar. “We had some things that we had to clean up over the first two weeks — we played two tough opponents — but … when we came out against a tough Shrewsbury team … we felt that we had what we needed to do to win.”
It was a slow start for both teams, but Saint John’s managed to open the scoring. After getting the ball at their own 16-yard line, quarterback Dylan DiPietro completed a big pass to wideout Cole Dipersio. Then, DiPietro found Paul Hanlon by the back-right pylon to put the Pioneers ahead 7-0.
But Shrewsbury responded. With five minutes before halftime, Shrewsbury quarterback Andrew Vincequere tossed an over-the-shoulder pass to Ethan LePoer that was reeled in for a touchdown, tying the score at 7-7. LePoer had another acrobatic catch, registering an
interception later in the game.
With both student sections cheering on their squads, the Pioneers scored once more before halftime. After a quick, three-minute drive, DiPietro plowed into the end zone on a QB-keeper to put Saint John’s ahead 14-7.
“[Winning tonight] means everything. Watching us lose in my sophomore year game just killed me, not being out there. Last year, of course, it was a close game down to the wire. It sucked just losing right at the last second. It hurt a lot. This year, this game was so electric. It just means everything,” said DiPietro.
“Dylan stepped up big,” Vassar said. “He stepped up. He made his mistakes where his mistakes were, but he kept his head up, head forward, and [was on to] the next play. He did a great job of that. I’m proud of him for that.”
After halftime, the Colonials used nearly the entire third
bury’s score. Daniel Wing’s touchdown run put Saint John’s ahead 21-13.
“It was the confidence boost that the boys needed. I told them in the locker room, ‘If we just score the points, we’ll be able to hold them off.’ I believed in my defense and their ability, and we got the points that we needed,” said Vassar.
Saint John’s Paul Hanlon makes an acrobatic catch in the back of the end zone to put Saint John’s ahead.
