CA 241101 by Newsroom

Shrewsbury, Leicester consider vocational partnership at Becker

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – The Shrewsbury School Committee is considering a partnership with Leicester High School that, if ratified, would dramatically increase the amount of Shrewsbury high-school-age students able to access vocational education — something the district has lacked since losing access to Assabet Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School.

During an Oct. 23 presentation by Leicester officials, the Shrewsbury School Committee learned about the possibility of entering a Career Technical Education (CTE) Partnership. The partnership could be ratified as soon as November, with some Shrewsbury Becker College | 12

Select Board approves contract with new town administrator

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH – The Select Board approved a contract with the new Town Administrator Stephanie Bacon during its Oct. 21 meeting.

Chair Mitch Cohen said the board came to an agreement with Bacon during its executive session earlier that evening.

In an email to the Community Advocate, Bacon thanked the Select Board for entrusting her with this “important” role and said she was eager to work collaboratively with the residents, businesses and community organizations to “address challenges and seize new opportunities.”

Shrewsbury celebrates Halloween in style

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – The first thing some residents saw when attending the Truck or Treat event on Oct. 26 was a wagon filled to the brim with all sorts of candy. The display was just a small portion of all the sugary treats distributed that day.

Recreation Coordinator Carly Morin, who organized the event along with the rest of the Shrewsbury Recreation Department, said the town had acquired over 12,000 pieces of candy for the event. That means that, over the course of the three-hour event, volunteers and town personnel distributed over 66 pieces of candy per minute — roughly one per second.

“I think it’s really great to provide an

event where community members can interact with all of our different departments and gain a better understanding of all the hard work they do. It’s also just great to come together as a community and celebrate Shrewsbury together,” said Morin.

“We’re doing so in a really exciting fashion — and I really mean ‘fashion,’ because I love the costumes. They’re phenomenal,” she continued.

And there was more than just candy at the Truck or Treat event; local children had fun decorating pumpkins and donuts. The “truck” in “Truck or Treat” represents the numerous Fire Department, Department of Public Works, and Police Department vehicles that were parked on-site for the community to explore.

Two kiddos decorate donuts at the Truck or Treat event at Town Hall. (Photo/Evan Walsh)

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

My wife and I have been residents of Northborough since 1997. We have witnessed the growth and development of our community both commercially and residentially and have been generally pleased with the improvements, and plans for future “beautification.”

Considering the residential and commercial growth in commercial establishments along Route 9, Bartlett Street, and the development of Northborough Crossing, I think it safe to say our select board has attempted to develop a balance in both our residential & commercial real estate.

The issue I and other longer term residents have is that the current single residential/commercial tax rate puts too much of the tax burden for much needed upgrades for our public safety, police & fire expansion, and other such town services such as trash pickup, squarely on the shoulders of residential property taxes and not as equitably as much on commercial real estate taxes…

To expect our residents to support underwriting the

$41,000,000+ fire station at the same real estate tax rate of commercial businesses is not only unfair to our residents but unsustainable.

It is time for our Town government, and residents to stand up and commit to a complete and thorough evaluation of establishing the two tier tax rate, one for residential and a higher rate for commercial which would contribute to relieving the current AND future, growing needs and expansion of our community and offer future relief for the residential tax payers.

Let me be clear… I agree that we need a new, updated fire station to dovetail with our future growth plans, and will likely vote “YES” on the question.

Today, a $41,000,000+ fire station… tomorrow a new multi-million dollar police station.

Let’s all remember how the proposed “NEW” Algonquin Regional Highschool proposition failed and learn a much needed lesson from the “NO” vote that residents voted on that ended that proposal. Let’s

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not let this happen to a “NEW” fire station.

Respectfully, Richard Holoubek Northborough

Dear Editor,

The proposed new fire station construction on next week’s ballot will, if approved, place a 30-year heavy financial burden and risk on town citizens. The $41 million estimate plus $20 million or more in bond interest may well increase. With actual fire calls less than 10% and response time comparison between existing and proposed new street locations miniscule how do you justify the cost? A full and honest explanation of financial impacts to a household has escaped discussions. You can replace a building or vehicle but you can’t replace a home and family. The Finance Committee, as well as Select Board as responsible stewards of public funds should act in the best interests of town residents and ensure that all costs are revealed. Severe financial stress and anguish are effecting

local residents too. Where is the concern for them? Don’t consider this proposal in isolation. Cumulative impacts of multiple capital projects combined with yearly home assessed value increases can easily lead to financial hardships and worse. Tax liens are another risk should payments falter. Further erosion of disposable income reduces consumer spending and local business profits. Absent is a sincere effort to identify non-tax funding sources and examination of cheaper alternatives such as merging fire departments and consolidating public safety services, both of which would mean less cost to taxpayers. It is said that fire service consolidation is inevitable. Other municipalities are already pursuing this option because it reduces costs and improves personnel safety and services. Private-public contract partnerships also reduce costs and risks. The Route 20 site location still has conflicting issues concerning possible groundwater and aquifer infusion of oil and contaminants from geothermal borings. De-

spite decades of problems, no traffic study was attempted. An outrageous add on list of high priced furnishings, kitchen appliances and accessories is rubbing dirt in the face of residents. If you want to lose support for a proposal, this is one way to do it.

The highest priority and most important goal for a family is to maintain their financial security and stability. No municipal service is more important than that. To remark that concern for residents’ financial protection is a show of nonsupport for firefighters is an insult. Vote your own well-being and vote NO on question 6.

Gib Chase Northborough

Why MCAS has failed our students

As a first year teacher in the city of Boston, and one who personally experienced the failure of Judge, Arthur Garrity’s forced busing proclamation, I was fortunate to be able to spend the remaining 33 years teaching in the towns of; Duxbury, Letters | 3

THE RELENTLESS PURSUIT OF HEALING

SHREWSBURY – This photo shows geese swimming in the pond in Dean Park. In the final days of October, the colors in the trees were still vibrant. To view more photos of the fall foliage at Dean Park, 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 30 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.

PUBLISHER/EDITOR: David Bagdon

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES:

MANAGING

ASSISTANT EDITOR: Maureen Sullivan

PROJECT EDITOR: Brett Peruzzi

REPORTER: Evan Walsh

ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT:

Mary Ellen Cyganiewicz | 508.366.5500 ext.

Barbara Clifford | 508.769.6259

Melissa Tatten-Perry | 413.658.7372

LEGAL

Cynthia Merchant | 508.736.4332

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS: Ellen Bishop

Lynne Fountain

OFFICE MANAGER: Tracy Nickerson

BILLING INQUIRIES: Bookkeeping Dept. | ext. 19

Letters | from page 2 Malden, Dedham, Waltham, Wellesley,and Westborough. MCAS was introduced as a result of the Massachusetts Education Reform Act in1993. Before that time, educators were allowed to actually teach, and followed creative and educationally sound curriculum guidelines that were developed from within their specific subject departments, in conjunction with town and state requirements. Two major bills that essentially deflated any joy in learning for students, were; President Bush’s “No Child Left Behind Act” and President Obama’s $4.35 Billion Dollar “Race to The Top -Common Core Act”. The result is a generation of students who were basically trained how to take a mandated exam. Teachers have a strict compressed timeline to present information that students regurgitate onto a computerized exam.

The Dover NH company “Measured Progress” with Atlanta based “AdvanceED” won the $151 million dollar contract to design this tool. For all the social scientists and corporate executives out there, constantly

Maturation

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.

whining about how; “We need fresh young minds”, who can be creative and think “outside the box” there is literally NO Art, Music or Creative subject matter at all on the MCAS exam. Massachusetts certified teachers are forced to deal with a mountain of bureaucratic paperwork to defend their educational practices. These state mandated initiatives have forced good teachers to quit the profession and younger people considering education as a career, to look for less selfdeprecating jobs, which is the biggest reason why we have a teacher shortage in the United States.

Personally, the current state of education in this country is like the story of “The Emperor’s New Clothes.” If our education leaders in this state were truly serious about adopting a true measurement of assessment, it would be a 6 year portfolio of a child’s learning growth (grades 7-12)that highlights the milestones each student has personally made, showing an accurate description for their college or career paths.

Paul Tomashefsky Shrewsbury

EMAIL FOR

EMAIL FOR CALENDAR ITEMS: calendar@communityadvocate.com

Maturation is a crucial stage in whiskey making, profoundly impacting the final product’s flavor, aroma, and character. After distillation, whiskey is transferred to wooden casks to undergo a transformative aging process. The interaction between the spirit and the wood, often oak, plays a vital role in developing whiskey’s complexity. During maturation, whiskey absorbs compounds from the wood, such as tannins, lignins, and vanillin, which impart flavors like vanilla, caramel, and spice. The aging environment, including temperature and humidity, also influences the whiskey’s maturation, contributing to variations in flavor. Over time, the whiskey mellows, losing harsh edges and developing a smoother, more rounded taste. The duration of maturation varies, with more extended aging periods generally producing more refined and intricate flavors.

Whiskey is a drink you can savor with close friends or enjoy while making new friends at your local bar or pub. And there are quite a number of ways to enjoy whiskey: You can drink it neat, shake or stir it into a modern cocktail, or concoct rejuvenating glasses of classic whiskey cocktails. The Spirits department at JULIO’S LIQUORS carries many hard-to-find items from single malt scotches to high-end vodkas and gins. For more information, please call 508-366-1942, or visit us at 140 Turnpike Rd., Rt. 9 East P.S. The meticulous process of whiskey maturation is a blend of art and science, making maturation a defining factor in the quality and uniqueness of the finished whiskey.

Select Board approves contract with new town administrator

Admin. | from page 1

“As Town Administrator, my goal is to ensure the Town of Northborough remains a vibrant and thriving place for everyone. I envision a future where there is community building, economic development and sustainability,” Bacon said. “To achieve this vision, I need input, ideas, and participation from the commu-

nity. I encourage residents to reach out to me directly, attend town meetings and engage with our community events.”

Bacon was one of four finalists for town administrator that were interviewed by the Select Board in September to replace outgoing Town Administrator Tim McInerney, who submitted his letter of resignation effective Oct. 16.

Since 2018, Bacon has worked as the assistant town manager/HR director in Holden. Prior to that, she was the health director in Northborough from 2015 to 2017.

During her interview, she discussed her desire to get into town management, which was supported by then-Town Administrator John Coderre. Bacon began receiving her

master’s in public administration from Anna Maria College while she was working in Northborough.

“I just had the love of municipal government and the people,” Bacon said during her interview. “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.”

The Select Board narrowed the pool of candidates to Bacon and Marc Strange, who has been the Ludlow town administrator since 2022, on Sept. 23 before ultimately selecting Bacon on Sept. 30.

Her first day with Northborough will be Nov. 4.

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Assistant Town Administrator Diane Wackell has been serving as the interim town administrator in the meantime. Cohen said that Wackell was doing a “wonderful” job.

“I really appreciate Diane stepping up and doing this in addition to her regular job because there’s no one backfilling your position,” said Cohen. “… That will help smooth the way for Stephanie joining us on Nov. 4.”

American Legion plans clothing drive

WESTBOROUGH – The American Legion Stowell-Parker Post 163 will stage a clothing and toiletries drive for homeless male and female veterans.

Most needed items include new socks, toiletries (shampoo, toothpaste, razors, soap, toothbrushes, deodorant, etc.), new winter hats and gloves, new and used winter clothes in adult sizes, and new clothes of all kinds in adult sizes.

The drive will be held Nov. 2-15. Drop off donations at the town’s police station, fire station, library, and senior center along with Mill Pond, Armstrong, Fales and Hastings elementary schools, and Gibbons Middle School.

The drive is co-sponsored by the Veterans Advisory Board.

For information, contact John Gallinagh, post adjutant, at usnr1967@gmail.com, or Paul Horrigan, post commander, at paulhorrigan123@ gmail.com.

Town

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By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

GRAFTON – Residents attending the annual Fall Town Meeting on Monday, Oct. 21, approved all but one of the 18 warrant articles.

Article 6 would have allowed mixeduse buildings via special permit and site plan approval in the neighborhood business and community business districts.

Despite recommendation from the Finance Committee, several residents questioned whether existing commercial buildings could be torn down in favor of a mixed-use building, and whether such changes could lead to more people moving to town.

“I’d be very cautious about voting for this,” said Select Board member Craig Dauphinais.

“This change is a developer’s dream,” said resident Scott Rossiter.

After more discussion, the article was defeated, 68-94.

Deadline to donate to Making Spirits Bright campaign Nov. 8

NORTHBOROUGH

– Northborough Helping Hands Association, Inc., has kicked off its “Making Spirits Bright” holiday campaign.

For over 20 years, Making Spirits Bright has helped Northborough families and seniors in need. As part of the program, community members can sponsor a gift, child or grocery gift card.

Last year, Helping Hands served 63 families and 62 senior and adult households.

Helping Hands collaborates with human service programs and identifies families and individuals who need holiday support. The organization is hoping to raise $14,000 to provide gift cards to parents to allow them to purchase clothing or a toy on their child’s wish list. Grocery gift cards will be given to seniors and individuals in need.

The gift cards will be distributed at Helping Hands’ annual Thanksgiving event, where the recipients will also receive a turkey with all of the trimmings.

Helping Hands is requesting monetary donations so that the gift cards can be personalized to each family’s need. A donation of $75 will sponsor one child, $50 a grocery gift card for a senior and $25 one gift, though donations of any amount are welcomed.

The deadline for donations is Nov. 8. Donations can be made online at www.northboroughhelpinghands.org, by mailing a check to NHHA, Holiday Outreach, PO Box 383, Northborough, MA, or by visiting Aero Coffee Roasters throughout October where a percentage of coffee bean sales will be donated to the campaign.

Planning Board discusses MBTA zoning in lead-up to Town Meeting

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – Shrewsbury’s MBTA zoning proposal is back in the limelight.

During meetings on Oct. 17 and Oct. 24, the Planning Board opened the floor for public comment regarding the town’s MBTA zoning plan.

What is proposed

The zoning has been discussed at Planning Board meetings since February, and work on the town’s proposal has been ongoing for far longer. As part of the 2021 MBTA Communities Act, Shrewsbury is required to zone for approximately 1,500 housing units, which is equal to 10% of the town’s current housing stock. If the town does not pass MBTA zoning, it would be ineligible for 13 discretionary grants. Shrewsbury has utilized roughly $5 million in related grants to fund “significant” infrastructure improvements and initiatives, Director of Planning and Economic Development Christopher McGoldrick said on Oct. 17.

A previous plan put the town’s MBTA zoning near the old Christmas Tree Shops. However, town leaders later settled on a 118-acre, contiguous site along Route 20 that includes three main parcels: Shrewsbury Commons, 409 South Street, and Emerald Run. Shrewsbury Commons is a preexisting development, while 409 South and Emerald Run are both proposed 40B projects, totaling 498 combined units.

Though the zoning could technically accommodate 1,512 units, residents can expect significantly less development given the pre-existing buildings in the proposed zone. Considering the 588 existing units in the zone and the other 40B units slated for development, McGoldrick said that the town would expect a “net new unit” count of approximately 426.

“This connects the district to two major transit corridors while overlaying parcels that are already existing, approved, or proposed for higher-density housing, limiting — to the extent practical — the generation of new housing units,” he said on Oct. 17.

Shrewsbury’s MBTA zoning plan went through the state’s “pre-adoption” feedback process. The state made minor “cautionary recommenda-

tions,” but determined that the town’s plan, if passed, would meet its standards.

Impact on schools

Though residents asked questions regarding different aspects of MBTA zoning during the meetings, the biggest topic of discussion concerned the amount of school-age children who might move into any development under the zoning. Residents inquired about the cost per pupil and the amount of students who may enter the school system.

“I’m going to start off with something that I believe is still a major issue for [the Planning Board] to make a decision on, and that’s … the cost of — whether it’s these or any other housing units in town — students,” said Anthony Bonaventura on Oct. 17. “It is one of the major costs in any residential project.”

At the Oct. 24 meeting, Superintendent Joe Sawyer said that, as of last spring, 790 out of the district’s 5,900-plus

students resided in apartments. Sawyer also commented on Town Manager Kevin Mizikar’s projections, which indicated that the build-out of 924 potential MBTA zoningrelated units — the number of “net new” units without considering the 40B developments —would add approximately 407 students to the school system.

“It’s a pretty conservative estimate ... The students per unit in town was about 0.28 ... but Mr. Mizikar, to be conservative, used a figure [0.44] that was almost double that, which represented one of the particular [high-student-perunit] apartments,” Sawyer said.

The 0.44 student-per-unit number is also higher than many existing apartment complexes. Quinn35 on Harrington Avenue has 0.08 students per unit, according to Sawyer. Edgemere Crossing — which projections once predicted would have 28 students — actually has 16 students, or 0.06

students per unit.

Shrewsbury High School is already overcrowded, said Sawyer, but the additional students would have a “de minimis” impact, considering they’d be spread throughout several classes. Class sizes would also not be majorly impacted at Oak Middle School or Sherwood Middle School, with the potential for 1.5 more students per class.

“I would not be advocating for hiring a new teacher to absorb 1.5 students in each class,” said Sawyer.

Any potential development’s biggest impact would be at the elementary level, Sawyer said, because those schools serve smaller geographic areas. If there’s a population increase in a certain school’s district, there may not be enough classes to effectively spread the impact. The potential MBTA zone would be located in the Floral Street School district.

“It would definitely put some enrollment pressure on

Floral Street. We’d have to add some teachers to maintain the class size there — probably a couple teachers per grade level, give or take. That said, one thing that we would always look to do as a school district is … doing some targeted redistricting of the targeted zones,” said Sawyer.

McGoldrick said that, per the Fair Housing Law, the Planning Board may not base its decision solely on schoolchildren if a residential development appeared before the board.

“It should be an adjacent piece,” he said.

The Planning Board will vote whether to recommend the MBTA zoning to Town Meeting on Oct. 30 after the Community Advocate goes to press. Other boards — including the Finance Committee on Nov. 7 and the Select Board on Nov. 12 — will have the opportunity to make recommendations prior to Town Meeting on Nov. 18. Shrewsbury has until Dec. 31 to pass MBTA zoning without penalty.

And how will I do this? Henceforth will I look on all things with love and I will be born again. I will love the sun for it warms my bones; yet I will love the rain for it cleanses my spirit. I will love the light for it shows me the way; yet I will love the darkness for it shows me the stars. I will welcome happiness for it enlarges my heart; yet I will endure sadness for it opens my soul. I will acknowledge rewards for they are my due; yet I will welcome obstacles for they are my challenge. And most of all I will love myself. For when I do I will zealously inspect all things which enter my body, my mind, my soul, and my heart. Never will I overindulge the requests of my flesh, rather I will cherish my body with cleanliness and moderation. Never will I allow my mind to be attracted to evil and despair, rather I will uplift it with the knowledge and wisdom of the ages. Never will I allow my soul to become complacent and satisfied, rather I will feed it with meditation and prayer. Never will I allow my heart to become small and bitter, rather I will share it and it will grow and warm the earth. I will greet this day with love in my heart.

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- The Scroll Marked II, excerpt from “The Greatest Salesman in the World”, by Og Mandino

I wIll greet thIs day wIth love In my heart

Aging Gracefully

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

ADVANCED DIRECTIVE

Creating an advanced directive is not an enjoyable task for anyone; however, it is necessary for those who want their voices heard when they can no longer speak for themselves or make their own decisions. is is particularly true for seniors. Advanced directives give family members peace of mind in di cult situations. For those seniors who have not taken the step of creating a directive, it’s up to family and caregivers to engage their loved ones in what can be a di cult conversation. ere are two primary documents involved in advanced directives: a living will, which provides literal instructions for medical care, and a health care proxy that designates a speci c individual to make decisions on behalf of the senior. You can change or cancel an advance directive at any time. Your changes should be written, signed and dated. In fact, it’s a good idea to review your directives periodically and if changes are made, be sure to provide your primary care doctor with a new copy. At NOTRE DAME LONG TERM CARE CENTER, we help residents maintain the best quality of life possible. To learn more, please call (508) 852-3011. You can also schedule a tour of our facilities at 559 Plantation Street. P.S. It’s a good idea to store advanced directives where they are easily accessible and make copies for any individuals named in the document.

Notre Dame Health Care

Term Care 559 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 508.852.3011 notredamehealthcare.org

Seniors on the move

Mission of Briarwood Retirement Community

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Mission

Briarwood’s mission is to enhance the well-being, independence and personal ful llment of its residents and other seniors by providing high quality, coordinated housing, health, wellness and supportive services consistent with the caring spirit of the founding churches.

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Briarwood’s vision is to be an innovative leader in the provision of services to support successful aging.

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By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – It has been nearly five years since the town obtained the Regal Cinemas, two years since a prospective buyer was chosen, and two years since a pair of lawsuits were filed to halt the purchase.

Background

Following an unexpected closure of the theater in 2017, the town searched for the property’s owners. The property went before Town Meeting, which approved an appraisal.

Town Manager Kristi Williams said several years ago the town considered other options before deciding in 2019 to begin a process known as tax title taking.

A court then formalized the property’s foreclosure.

“So, now the town is the owner of the property,” said Williams.

According to Finance Director Jonathan Steinberg, the unpaid back taxes and interest on the property total $733,078, as of 2024.

In May 2022, the town approved a request for proposals, which drew more than three dozen requests.

Three formal bids were brought before the Select Board — a business “beehive” proposed by Ferris Development Group LLC; a rebuilt and upgraded theater from LAX Media MA LLC; and 108 condo units to be developed by Pulte Homes of New England LLC.

In November 2022, the Select Board chose LAX Media LLC the winning bidder. Soon after, Ferris Development Group filed suit against the town and LAX Media, claiming its bid was “objectively superior.”

The other lawsuit was filed in Worcester Land Court in January

The fate of Regal Cinemas is still up in the air following its closure in 2017.

(Photo/Maureen Sullivan)

2023 by Westborough SPE LLC, which claimed to have purchased the company from the original owner, F. Jan Blaustein. Westborough SPE LLC is asking for a motion to vacate the foreclosure granted in 2019.

The documents were filed one day before the one-year deadline of the final foreclosure decree.

Both cases remain in court, and the Select Board continues to discuss both lawsuits in executive session.

A status conference for the case involving Ferris and LAX Media has been scheduled for Jan. 7 in Worcester Superior Court.

NORTHBOROUGH – Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts (BBBSEM) held the 22nd annual Daquan Burrell Memorial Big Golf Tournament on Sept. 26 at Juniper Hill Golf Course.

Over $100,000 was raised to benefit the youth mentoring program. To date, the tournament has raised over $700,000.

The tournament featured a giveaway, oncourse fun, luncheon, award program, putting contest and more.

BBBSEM Chief Program Officer Terry McCarron spoke about the value of youth mentoring before the tournament began.

“Caring mentors help youth reach their fullest potential,” he said. “With a positive adult role model, a child is more likely to make healthy choices, thrive socially and emotionally and have stronger relationships with peers and other adults. Our work to transform families creates a ripple effect that builds stronger communities.”

This year, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts is celebrating 75 years as the leading one-to-one mentoring program for youth in the state. It partners with families to provide children with one-to-one relationships with caring adults and creates Big-Little matches based on shared interests, geography and personality.

For more information, visit www.emassbigs. org

October 26

Meet & Greet with “Beetlejuice” “Malloween” with DJ Craig Sutton Free $5 Candy at “Candy Time” * Music with Stephen George (4pm-7pm)

November 2

Meet & Greet with “Mirabel and Moana” DJ Craig Sutton

November 9

Meet & Greet “Captain America and Wonder Woman”

November 16

Meet & Greet with “Bluey and Bingo” DJ Craig Sutton and “Cash Cube” Facepainting with Mz. Donna Hanover Theatre “Nutcracker” Giveaway. Bluey

*Offer valid 11am-2pm, Oct. 26 only! While Supplies Last

(*All events are 11am-2pm unless otherwise indicated) )

COMMUNITY BUSINESS

Robinsons Hardware served Hudson for 150 years

By David Bonazzoli Contributing Writer

HUDSON – After 150 years, Robinsons Hardware, a beloved member of the downtown Hudson business community, has closed.

The store’s history begins with Ira A. Dutton, who opened a hardware store in 1874. Hudson had become a town just six years earlier, and Dutton found a ready market for the items he carried in his store.

In 1884, senior partner John H. Robinson, and a friend, John C. Holden, bought out the firm of Ira A. Dutton, added to the stock, and enlarged the business. The firm became known as Holden and Robinson. The store, located in the Chase Block, was well established when the great fire of July 4, 1894, destroyed it and much of Hudson’s downtown.

A new block was soon erected and the business went on until the death of Holden in

1899, when the younger brother of J. H. Robinson, Sidney M. Robinson, was added to the firm and they became known as “John and Sid.” It soon became apparent that the name “John and Sid” had great advertising value and the quick-witted pair adopted the sobriquet from that day forward.

Central One’s L’Ecuyer inducted into Hall of Fame

SHREWSBURY – Central One Federal Credit Union’s former President and CEO David L’Ecuyer has been inducted into the Cooperative Credit Union Association’s (CCUA) Hall of Fame.

The hall of fame honors people who have made significant contributions to the credit union movement. The honor was unveiled during CCUA’s annual Apex Conference in October.

“David L’Ecuyer’s impact on Central One and the credit union industry at large was nothing short of transformative,” said President and CEO Devon Lyon in a press release. “His vision, dedication and leadership established a foundation of growth and community commitment that continues to drive our success today.”

L’Ecuyer led Central One from 1994 until his retirement in 2022. He is only the second CEO in Central One’s 70-year history and orchestrated the transition from a small occupational-based credit union for New England Electric System employees to one of the largest

David L’Ecuyer

federal credit unions in Central Massachusetts.

Central One achieved remarkable growth under his leadership and established a solid commitment to member satisfaction, setting new standards for excellence in the industry. He transformed the organization into a “beacon of innovation and community service,” the credit union wrote in the press release. Central One’s assets grew to $735 million and membership more than doubled to over 35,000 members.

“We are honored to see David’s contributions recognized by CCUA Hall of Fame — it’s a well-deserved acknowledgement of his lasting legacy,” said Lyon.

The store, at 35 Main St., came to be known as one of the most up-to-date hardware stores in the New England states.

Tragedy struck a second time when the Chase Block, arguably the most handsome building downtown, burned to the ground on the bitter cold

night of February 7, 1935.

A smaller, one-story building with a basement was soon erected and the business continued, the new address being 29 Main Street, but the store was essentially in the same location as before.

The Robinson family continued to run the store for

several more decades, until it was purchased by Norman and Marion Underwood in 1963.

The W. T. Grant Company had a department store in the center of town for many years. When the Hudson Counter Company factory was dismantled in 1961, Grants built a new store in its place, alongside the waterfall on Washington Street.

Grants, founded in 1906, was an old, established retailer, but by the early 1970s the company was in trouble. The Hudson store closed in 1973 and by 1976 the firm was bankrupt. In 1974, Robinsons set up a new store in the former Grants location. The business carried on successfully for several more decades.

Changing times, and competition from “big box” stores made it impossible to continue and on October 31, 2024, Robinsons became a part of Hudson’s proud history.

The fond memories remain.

VETERANS DAY BREAKFAST

Left: Robinsons Hardware was located in a storefront in the Chase Block on Main Street until the building burned down in 1935.

Right: The interior of Robinsons Hardware on Main Street circa 1899 featured a high ceiling and a chandelier.

Shrewsbury, Leicester consider vocational partnership at Becker College

Becker College | from page 1

students starting vocational training as soon as January.

“There’s a lot of ways this could be a real ‘win-win’ for both communities. I think that was laid out very clearly. We’re in the due-diligence phase now, for sure, now that this information is there … We’ll see if this is something that [could] connect Shrewsbury kids who are interested in a vocational-technical

education who have not been able to get that at Assabet,” said Superintendent Joe Sawyer.

About the partnership Shrewsbury and Leicester are in the “same boat” in some respects. After a change in state policy required vocational schools to give preference to students in their member communities, both towns lost access to Assabet.

Your Money, Your Independence

Although Shrewsbury has introduced numerous initiatives designed to create opportunities for vocational-minded students — even briefly attempting to join the Assabet district — the town’s students still lack access to “true” vocational-technical programming. Roughly 110 students from Shrewsbury went to vocational programs in 2020, but that number is down to 22 as of

Use November to Finalize Year-End Success and Plan for 2025

November is a pivotal month for financial planning. An opportunity to measure against financial goals, make final strategic decisions for tax year 2024, and prepare for the upcoming year. Wait until December, you risk falling into the apathy and distractions common from Thanksgiving to the New Year. Do you want that for your finances?

Here are key financial planning topics to consider now.

Review Your Planning Goals

Take stock of your progress: have you met your savings targets? Made headway on debt repayments? Improve upon experience spending? Expand investing to asset allocation? This review can help identify areas to accelerate efforts before the year ends or be of greater priority in 2025.

Tax Planning Strategies

Does Roth Conversion or switching 401(k) contributions to Roth make sense?

If doing Roth Conversion, what’s your expected Federal tax bracket and how much to convert to ensure you’re not bumping up a level or two?

Do you or a grandparent want to gift more than $18,000 to a child’s 529 Plan?

If self-employed and want to open a Solo 401(k) plan, it must be done by December 31. Know that funding isn’t required until April tax filing deadline. Recall 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act lowering federal tax brackets will expire end of 2025. Current % will revert back (%): 12% (15%), 22% (25%), 24% (28%), 32% (33%), 35% (35%) and 37% (39.6%). Furthermore, the Standard Deduction $ amount for tax returns nearly doubled, it too reverts. Are there circumstances to plan for splitting realized gains over 2024 and 2025?

Open Enrollment for Work Benefits

Does your current health plan meet you and/ or your family’s health and financial well-being? Does FSA or HSA make sense? If so, how much to contribute?

Should you utilize supplemental Life or AD&D insurance? Are you opting into long-term disability insurance?

Are you enrolling in dependent care and/or transportation flex spending accounts?

Use your Medical Flex Spending Account (FSA)

Unlike Health Savings Accounts (HSA) that rollover each year to accumulate, FSA is a “use it or lose it” benefit program. Some allow ~$500 carried the following year, others $0. If you’re low on qualified medical expenses, schedule elective appointments, renew prescriptions and/or spend on wellness. Don’t spend New Year’s Eve panic shopping in CVS.

Evaluate Investment Portfolios

Assess your asset allocation, then rebalance and/ or tax-loss harvest, if necessary. Remember, asset allocation is different from diversification. Owning a S&P 500 Index fund is diversification, as it owns 500 largest U.S. companies, but it’s not an asset allocation model. Ensure asset classes are near their targets. Nearing retirement or have major life changes requiring funds? Identify source of funds, develop a tax-efficient distribution strategy and allocate remaining long-term assets to grow over time relative to need, not greed or fear. Meaning your asset allocation may (and likely should be) different within taxable accounts versus 401(k), 403(b), pre-tax IRA accounts versus Roth IRA, HSA accounts.

Don’t Forget Your RMD

For 2024, the age for Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from retirement accounts is 73, up from 72 due to changes enacted by the SECURE 2.0 Act. Also new, per finalized IRS regulations, Inherited IRAs from a non-spouse (i.e. parent) in 2020 or later where the deceased was taking RMDs, then you must also take RMDs within the 10-Year Rule. If previous years were missed, the IRS will not penalize, however they will after December 31, 2025.

Conclusion

November is a month of reflection, giving thanks and preparation in the realm of financial planning. If feeling overwhelmed, connect with your Certified Financial Planner to finish the year strong and set a solid foundation for a prosperous 2025.

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.

Oct. 1.

While Shrewsbury and Leicester have had similar issues accessing vocational education, key differences between the districts would drive the proposed partnership. Whereas Shrewsbury has many interested students and too little space, Leicester has excess space and too few students. Leicester’s enrollment has dropped from 1,800 students in 2005 to roughly 1,200 today.

The vocational partnership would take place at the former Becker College, which closed in 2021 and had campuses in Worcester and Leicester. In what Leicester Superintendent Brett Kustigian called the “deal of a lifetime,” Leicester purchased 19 buildings on 44 acres of the Leicester campus in 2022 for $17.83 million. The district has been trying to convert the space into a vocational school since that time.

The effort focuses on four campus buildings. The Fuller Campus Center, built in 2012, is the centerpiece of the shuttered campus and is in excellent shape. The Borger Academic Library, Swan Library, and Lenfest Animal Clinic are also part of the plans, but are all 1960s-era structures and require renovations. Leicester has been in communication with the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) to fund renovations and “accelerated repairs.”

“Our task is to basically take a college campus and turn it into a high school,” said Kustigian.

Potential programs

The Shrewsbury-Leicester partnership would provide several vocational options to Shrewsbury students. The “Building and Property Management” pathway includes carpentry, electrical, plumbing, and more; Kustigian called it the “perfect trade to start with,” noting it incorporates multiple different skills.

“Early Education & Care” — a program in which students would earn their Child Development Associate (CDA) credential — is the second Leicester vocational program that is currently ongoing. Other proposed programs include “Health Assisting,” which trains aides and nursing assistants, and “Culinary Arts.”

An “Electrical” program may be coming to the school in 2026, and Leicester has plans to add a

“Plumbing and HVAC” component come 2027. A “Veterinary” program that utilizes the existing vet center on campus may open by 2028.

Shrewsbury students may be able to access Leicester’s vocational education almost immediately; Leicester has proposed allowing 15 Shrewsbury students into the district as soon as January. The students would engage in a “pilot program” designed to help them explore which programs they enjoy most. The school could take 100 total Shrewsbury students in upcoming school years. The school would cost Shrewsbury roughly $13,000 per student, and the town would pay for transportation costs. Leicester is about 30 minutes away from Shrewsbury High School via I-290. Shrewsbury students who enroll in the program would graduate from Leicester High School. The students would be eligible to participate in Leicester sports, clubs, and any other extracurricular activities.

The Leicester School Committee has voted to allow Shrewsbury as a partner to the vocational school. The Shrewsbury School Committee will vote at an upcoming meeting whether to sign a memorandum accepting the agreement. A copy of the memorandum viewed by the Community Advocate suggests that, if accepted, the agreement would run through the 2026-2027 academic year.

If the Shrewsbury School Committee accepts the deal, information will soon be distributed to families and students who may be interested in this vocational-technical opportunity.

Throughout the presentation, Leicester officials repeatedly emphasized that they believed Shrewsbury was the right partner for the project, with Kustigian mentioning his long-standing relationship with Sawyer.

“The opportunity to partner with such a well-respected educator [in Sawyer] and such a fine system like yours is just awesome for us. I think it’s a ‘win-win’ … The opportunity to partner with someone who has such knowledge is a wonderful thing for me, and I think it’s going to be a good thing for the Leicester community as well as the Shrewsbury community,” said Kustigian. “The stars have aligned for this.”

Glenn Brown, CFP

Northborough generates $750K more in excise taxes than budgeted

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH – Northborough received approximately $750,000 more in excise taxes for fiscal year 2024 than what it had budgeted.

During the Oct. 21 Select Board meeting, Finance Director Jason Little made a presentation focusing on the fiscal 2024 budget and the closing of the fiscal year.

The final fiscal 2024 budget estimated that the town would receive $70.3 million in revenue, including $4 million in local receipts. However, the year-todate actual budget indicated that the town saw $6.5 million in local receipts and a total revenue of $72.8 million.

Within the local receipts figure, Northborough received $3.6 million in excise taxes, which is an increase compared to the final budgeted figure of $2.9 million. Excise taxes include motor vehicle, meal and room taxes.

“Due to conservative budgeting, that was a very large increase over what we had projected in the budget,” said Little.

The town also saw an increase over what it had budgeted for interest and penalties on late taxes and investment income. Investment income in particular resulted in a 444.7% increase over what was budgeted; the final budget originally projected $235,000 and the year-to-date resulted in $1.3 million.

“As everybody knows, interest rates are high. When we set the budget for this, we’re trying to pick conservatively. We don’t know if every month we’re going to have consistently high interest rates,” Little said.

In general, he said munici-

WESTBOROUGH – The Senior Center Supporters will conduct the annual Holiday Fair on Saturday, Nov. 23, and the group is seeking the following donations:

Jewelry and accessories for men, women and children; handmade crafts, including wool and metal; handmade quilts, afghans and throw blankets; quality items for the silent auction; gift basket elements, such as chocolate, gardening items, pet supplies, cooking and holiday items.

Drop items off at the senior center by Friday, Nov. 8; mark them Holiday Fair.

On Friday, Nov. 22, a variety of baked goods, breads, pies, candies and more will be available for purchase, along with floral arrangements.

For the Cheryl’s Closet indoor yard sale at the fair, drop off new and gently used items on Nov. 21 and 22. No textiles, electronics or appliances, please.

For information, call the center at 508-366-3000.

palities have more money in liquid to pay their bills. Northborough typically has between $30 million to $40 million at the end of the month and generates about 4% in interest on that over the course of the year, Little said. Investment income was typically below 1% in previous years.

“Our treasurer does a great job of making sure money is maximized and we’re maximizing our investment income opportunities in these bank accounts and moving things to the higher generating accounts and so forth,” said Little.

The Department of Revenue

has certified the town’s free cash for the general fund at $4,627,145 as of July 1, which Little said is a “relatively good year” for Northborough.

Free cash is a fiscal term for the “remaining, unrestricted funds from operations of the previous fiscal year, including unexpended free cash from the previous year, actual receipts in excess of revenue estimates shown on the tax recapitulation sheet and unspent amounts in budget line items,” according to the town’s definition.

“So, the town was left with an unappropriated balance of $770,000 from the previous year, which means the town ‘generated’ $3,857,145 during FY2024,” Little wrote.

Little said the certification came earlier this year due to pressure to close the books for the sewer article that was approved at Town Meeting in October.

The conversation was ahead of Northborough’s tax classification hearing in November.

In the memo, Little wrote that Northborough’s free cash was certified at $3,572,920 for July 1, 2023. Town Meeting then voted to appropriate $2.8 million from that amount.

Best treatments for Plantar Fasciitis

By Dr. Benjamin Saviet

Glass, like any foreign body that can penetrate skin, is likely to eventually be worked out by your body's natural defenses and in�lammatory response. However, the deeper it enters, the harder it is to get rid of and the longer it will likely take.

By Central Massachusetts Podiatry Team

Best treatments for Plantar Fasciitis

What should I do if I step on glass?

By Central Massachusetts Podiatry Team

tweezers to try to pluck it out.

If you aren't sure if you got it all, then you should soak the injury in warm water and epsom salts twice a day for a day or two until you can see a doctor.

The �irst steps with any injury like this are to wash it with soap and warm water to remove any contamination and help reduce risk of infection. If there’s anything visible it's worthwhile to try to brush it out or use clean

simple act of plucking out a sliver of glass becomes a �ishing expedition.

Almost everyday a patient comes in with excruciating heel pain, after trying every tip found online and after spending hundreds of dollars in shoes and products that promise a solution for Plantar Fasciitis. The Central Massachusetts Podiatry doctors recorded a webinar to guide you through what really works and when it’s time to be seen by a specialist.

Time matters

We like to see these in the of�ice within a few days if there’s any question that something might still be in there. Patients that are at risk for infection frequently are put on antibiotics. If there’s something to get out, we numb the area to remove it.

Central Massachusetts Podiatry PC

The doctors and surgeons go over exercises you can do at home to help with heel pain, best shoes to wear and to avoid, the difference between over the counter orthotics and custom orthotics, when a cortisone injection is advised and the new advanced treatments such as Shockwave Therapy. Before you google or buy anything for heel pain, watch this free webinar online at: https://bit.ly/ HeelPainWebinar1 or scan the QR Code in the picture. Call us at 508-757-4003 for an appointment.

If you wait 2-3 weeks, the wound can be healed up and the

Long story short: see a doctor or urgent care within a few days of the injury just to make sure. Call 508-757-4003 as we offer same-day visits for emergencies. This article was edited and condensed. Read the full feature at www.centralmasspodiatry.com/blog

Central Massachusetts Podiatry PC

Post 22 brews up training opportunity for adults with disabilities

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – It was a few minutes before the grand opening on Wednesday, Oct. 23, and the staff at Ben’s Beans gathered for a pep talk and final instructions.

The menu — hot and iced coffee, hot tea, and a variety of donated pastries from Yummy Mummy. Some will host while others will prepare and serve.

Ben’s Beans is the latest employment training program offered by Post 22, which provides training and employment for adults with disabilities who have aged out of special education and other services.

“We’ve done a lot of training,” said Alli, a member of Post 22. “It’s important to train before you get a restaurant job.”

For Alli, Ben (the son of Post 22 founder Christine Simpson and for whom the shop is named) and the rest of the adults in Post 22, the new venture is another opportunity to work.

The coffee shop occupies one corner of Post 22, which is located on the second floor of a building at 1300 Union St., between Roche Bros. and the community center.

The space includes room for computers, work space, meetings, and an area where parents and caregivers can drop off and

pick up. Simpson conducted tours of the facility, starting with the computer learning lab.

This is where the members of Post 22 build resumes and learn vocational skills.

Time is set aside to work on projects supplied by the post’s 12 sponsors, including Cold Harbor and Amazon. The tables

and other equipment were donated by C.P. Lauman Corp.

Also, “the adults have three to five internships per week” at businesses outside the post, said Simpson.

The Post 22 adults also take part in social and recreational activities.

Ben’s Beans will open one

Wednesday per month, toward the end of the day (around 2 p.m.). The shop will run on a donation basis.

For information about Post 22 and the programs it offers, visit https://www.post-22. com/, or https://www.facebook. com/Post22TrainingandEmployment/

Seminar Agenda

Registration/Introduction by hosts Kevin Flaherty, PT and Kim

Julia LeBlanc, PT, DPT, RYT,COMT • Pelvic Health and Diaphragmatic Breathing

Beverly Mazza, BSN, RN • Nutritional Strategies for Enhanced Mood & Daily Energy

Elena Moglia, PT, MSPT, COMT • Benefits of Pilates Training for Woman’s Health

Melissa Stein, Lic.Ac, Herbalist • Balancing Hormones & Increasing Vitality with Acupressure

Jennifer Warkentin, Ph.D. • Empower Your Mind: Strategies for Mental Wellness & Positivity

Beverly Mazza Elena Moglia

Jennifer Warkentin

Julia Leblanc

Melissa Stein

Flaherty, Co-owner, Open Circle Acupuncture & Healing

The adults in the Post 22 program get ready to open Ben’s Beans, a coffee shop and training program. (Photo/Maureen Sullivan)

The grand opening of Ben’s Beans on Wednesday, Oct. 23, drew a lot of well-wishers and supporters of Post 22.

Congregational Church of Westborough celebrates 300 th

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – Sally Pe -

terson has been a member of the Congregational Church of Westborough for more than six decades. Her family has attended the church for five generations.

“My roots run deep in this church,” said Peterson.

She was among the congregants celebrating the church’s 300th anniversary with a Founder’s Day Service on Sunday, Oct. 27.

“Today we celebrate 300 years of faith, love and service,” said Rev. Betsy Dorsi, the church’s current pastor.

The guest preacher, Rev. Dr. Kazimierz Bem, is the current pastor of the First Church of Marlborough, the “mother church” for the Westborough parish. He recalled how the Westborough church was founded after its first minister, Rev. Ebenezer Parkman, was “properly ordered and dismissed” from the Marlbor-

ough church in 1724.

When Parkman began his ministry in Westborough, it was “on the edge” of civilization, said Bem. Parkman would serve for more than 50 years. The Parkman Chapel is named in his honor, and it contains his pine pulpit and family Bible.

The service included a performance “300 Years of Faith,” with lyrics written specially

for the church; and an acknowledgement for those who have attended the church for at least 50 years.

After the service, the church rang its bell 300 times.

Upcoming events

The church is planning several events for November and December, including the annual Interfaith Service on Tuesday, Nov. 26, at 7 p.m.; the

The choir at the Congregational Church of Westborough performs during the Founder’s Day Service on Sunday, Oct. 27. (Photo/Maureen Sullivan)

Cub Scouts to stage Scouting for Food

WESTBOROUGH – Local Cub Scouts will be going door to door starting at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 9, to pick up food donations for the Westborough Food Pantry.

Evergreen Fair on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; an Open House with tours of the church building on Saturday, Dec. 14, from noon to 4 p.m.; a performance of “Messiah” by the Assabet Valley Mastersingers on Sunday, Dec. 15, at 3:30 p.m.; and Christmas services on Dec. 24 and 29.

For information on the church, visit https://uccwestboro.org/home

The pantry’s wish list items include beef stew, soups, chili, pasta sauce, rice pilaf, instant potatoes, canned kidney beans, salad dressing, tuna, laundry and dish detergent (small sizes), crackers and cookies, and any other nonperishable food items. None of the items should be expired or damaged. Participants should leave their bagged donations on the front stoop or end of the driveway for scouts to collect.

Bags not picked up by 12:30 p.m. may be dropped at the fire station, Roche Brothers or the Lyman Street Stop & Shop. Donations will be delivered to the food pantry for sorting and distribution.

Hudson youth cheerleading squad wins regional competition

HUDSON – In October, Hudson cheerleading squads of different ages competed in a Central Massachusetts tournament. The 8U squad placed first in competition, while the 12U squad earned third place in its respective category.

Though the 6U category doesn’t get officially scored, that group also competed valiantly at the competition.

Another year, more success for Hudson cheer! The program’s three teams found success at a recent competition. (Photo/ Courtesy)

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.

“They were so proud of themselves. It’s one thing to say that I’m proud of them, and their coaches are proud of them, but for these girls to feel that at such a young age — it’s pretty exciting. To see their confidence grow, it’s wonderful,” said Hudson Youth Cheer Director Sarah Krinopol.

The program has doubled in size since last year, with over 60 girls competing this season. About half of the 8U competition-winning squad was brand new to cheerleading. While bringing trophies home to Hudson is important, teaching the children how to be part of a team and cooperate with friends is also paramount.

“It’s overwhelming, I think, for the cheerleaders and their families — the commitment they signed up for… They have all done such a great job in showing up, making the commitment, and on Saturday, their hard work really showed. For these girls, the outcome and all their effort paid off. You saw that in their faces,” said Krinopol.

“They really care about each other,” she added.

SHREWSBURY – On Wednesday, Nov. 13, at 7 p.m., the Shrewsbury Historical Society will present “Show and Tell: Personal Treasures” at 17 Church Road.

Back by request, this program once again invites participants to share one or two treasured items from their own personal collection of historic items. It might be a unique photo, postcard, historic book, album, family heirloom or Shrewsbury memorabilia.

This year’s show and tell will also include five of the latest artifacts from the society’s collection. Whether or not you have a story to tell, please join the society to learn about the wide-ranging histories and interests of the community.

This is not an appraisal event. No guns or weapons. The event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served.

Questions? Email shrewsburyhistory@townisp.com

HISTORY

SHREWSBURY THEN NOW

By Michael Perna Jr. History Columnist

SHREWSBURY - The year was 1861. The Civil War had begun, and the Union Army was actively recruiting in order to meet the ever-increasing demands of battle with the Confederacy. In Massachusetts, recruiting was going on for the 13th Massachusetts Volunteer Militia regiment. Company K was formed in Westborough. When the number of recruits was not sufficient to fill the ranks, men were sought from the surrounding towns, including Shrewsbury.

A number of men answered the call to arms, including Appleton Sawyer, a 20-year-old from a well-known Shrewsbury family. Sawyer was enlisted and took on the role of the drummer for Company K.

The regiment went off to war in July of 1861.

Sawyer, along with the rest of Company K, endured long marches, slim rations and many battles, including the Second Battle of Bull Run, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, the Wilderness, Spotsylvania, Cold Harbor and the siege of Petersburg.

At the battle of Gettysburg in July of 1863, several Shrewsbury men were wounded or killed. Privates Michael O’Laughlin, Horatio Cutting, and George Sprague died, and Albion Vining and Samuel Jordan were wounded.

Some members of the company were taken prisoner, including Sgt. Austin Stearns from Westborough. Stearns was later “paroled” and eventually returned to Union control and served out the rest of his enlistment with Company K. Years later, his memories of the war were documented in the book “Three Years with

Company K,” where he mentions Appleton Sawyer becoming extremely ill from eating some meat. He noted that Sawyer “suffered from the effects for years.”

Sawyer not only lived through the marches, battles and desolate conditions, but documented all these things in his diary, which he carried from the time he enlisted until his discharge.

After the war, he became a member of Post 10, Grand Army of the Republic, in Worcester, where he continued in his role as a drummer. His Civil War kepi (cap), complete with the metal “K” insignia on the top (for Company K of the 13th Regiment), was displayed in the post quarters until 1983, when it was stolen during a break-in.

Fortunately, Appleton Sawyer’s diary has been preserved until the present day. It’s an amazing relic from the Civil War that allows us to read about the life of a common soldier in that historic conflict.

Shrewsbury native Appleton Sawyer’s diary from his service during the Civil War has endured to this day.

COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

Shrewsbury School Committee, paraeducators reach contract agreement

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – After 18 negotiation sessions dating back to December, the School Committee and the Shrewsbury Paraeducator Association (SPA) reached a tentative agreement on a successor three-year contract on Oct. 21.

The deal was announced during the School Committee’s Oct. 23 meeting.

“We are very appreciative of the partnership that we have with the SPA and reaching this deal,” School Committee Chair Jon Wensky said. “Both parties, I felt, were very collaborative and transparent about the needs and challenges … Our paraeducators are a pivotal part of our success in this district — they have really difficult and challenging jobs every day, and we really appreciate their commitment to the success of students across

“ Our paraeducators are a pivotal part of our success in this district – they have really difficult and challenging jobs every day, and we really appreciate their commitment to the success of students across the district.

Jon Wensky, School Committee Chair

the district.”

Shrewsbury’s over 200 paraeducators had been working without a contract since Aug. 26. In the absence of a new contract, paraeducators worked under the terms of the expired deal. The title “paraeducators” includes roles like instructional assistants, special education assistants, child-specific assistants, applied behavioral analysis technicians, media aides, and tutors.

“I am very happy that the negotiations are finally over,”

SPA President Noreen Christie

said in a statement to the Community Advocate. “We had a strong team of highly qualified and hard-working paraeducators that negotiated with us to make sure the School Committee knew exactly what our jobs are on a daily basis, and that our love for the students we support drives us to work as hard as we do.”

“I am pleased we made progress this time,” she continued, “but I will still be wearing my ‘We Are Worth More’ button.”

The tentative contract offers

new “top steps” — compensation levels commensurate with experience — for certain positions. Paraeducators will receive an extra paid holiday, increased paid professional development, and an increase in work hours for certain positions. Paraeducators who assist students in the restroom will receive a $450 toileting stipend.

Though the agreement — which covers the 2024-2025, 2025-2026, and 2026-2027 school years — may have come later than both sides preferred, a tentative contract was reached earlier than in past cycles. Negotiations for the now-expired deal dragged into January 2022 and included a rally. School Committee members characterized this contract’s negotiation process as “collaborative” and “transparent.”

“Of the three [negotiation] cycles I’ve been a part of, this

one’s been by far the best,” said Wensky.

Other School Committee members, including Sandra Fryc and Superintendent Joe Sawyer, were pleased with the tentative agreement. The committee also voiced its appreciation for the district’s staff of paraeducators.

“It was a very good negotiation. There was a lot of backand-forth conversation. I think the SPA team helped us understand some of the real pain points and areas we needed to focus on … Our paraeducators are pivotal to what we do as a district, and we couldn’t do the work without them,” said Fryc.

“These are really, incredibly important roles in our school district. Every time you visit a school, you can’t help but see the impact that these paraeducators are making, supporting students, supporting staff, and making the schools work well,” said Sawyer.

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – Although middle and high school students in Westborough are less prone to smoking and drinking, they’re more likely to pick up the phone several times during the school day.

During its meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 15, the School Committee discussed these and other results from the latest Metrowest Adolescent Health Survey.

According to Roger Anderson, director of wellness, physical education and health, and Kim Tynan, clinical director, 47% of students surveyed said they check their phones a few times per hour or more during school.

“If they do that, they’re not necessarily engaged in their education,” said Anderson.

Being on their phones and engaging in social media is taking a toll, according to the survey. Close to half of WHS students said they don’t concentrate as well, and 59% don’t sleep as well.

Anderson said that school officials are developing media specifically targeting daily media use.

One of the other results indicates that although there was a slight rise in alcohol use from 2021 to 2023 (to about 20%), the trends in other uses (vaping, cigarettes, marijuana and prescription drug abuse) have either decreased or held steady when it comes to Westborough students — at or below 10% of those surveyed.

Although the numbers are down, “It’s not zero,” said Anderson.

There were also lower numbers when it comes to stress and depression. Eighty percent of WPS students said they feel safe at school; and 76% of students said they’ve taken part in volunteer or community service activities.

Both Anderson and Tynan are concerned about the amount of time WPS students spend online.

According to the survey, 42% said they spent three or more hours on their smartphone, not for school or homework, per day.

“That’s a significant amount of time,” said Anderson. “A

part-time job is 20 hours per week.”

Westborough Public Schools has several policies when it comes to phone and computer use. For example, every student at Westborough High School must put their phone in a phone holder pocket at the beginning of every class, and cannot retrieve it until class is over.

There were also discussions on cyberbullying (20% of students reported they were victims of cyberbullying); and distracted driving behavior (37% of 11th- and 12th-graders reported texting, emailing or messaging while driving).

The distracted driving numbers are “very concerning,” said Anderson.

“We think teenagers often think they’re bulletproof,” he said.

The entire School Committee meeting, including the survey results, may be found at https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=Vth9zIJadDU

Peters High School Class of 1959 reunites

SOUTHBOROUGH – Peters High School Class of 1959 celebrated its 65th reunion this September at the Southborough Community Center with a pizza party, and a buffet dinner followed by a Sunday breakfast brunch.

The weekend-long event gave alumni an opportunity to relive some of their cherished moments at the old high school. The class of ‘59 was the last class to graduate from Peters High School in Southborough as the town then joined with Northborough to form Algonquin Regional. The building may be gone, but the memories live for the 12 remaining alumni who celebrated with 21 guests at the event.

LEGAL NOTICES

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HUDSON

TOWN OF HUDSON REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS

MOULTON PARK & PLAYGROUND REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT - DESIGN SERVICES

The Town of Hudson, Park Commission –Division of Recreation is seeking qualified consultants to provide Design Services related to the redevelopment of Moulton Park and Playground located on Marion Street in Hudson, MA. Site concept plan (2020 Recreation Town-Wide Master Plan) calls for the installation of items such as but not limited to: 1-2 Basketball Courts, Universal Playground, Walking Paths and New Parking Areas. Consultant will work with the Town to engage the public and meet with town boards and officials, as required, to develop final plans, cost estimates and prepare bid-ready construction documents. Additionally, Consultant will work with the Town to explore cost options for permanent public restrooms, that may or may not be incorporated into the site redevelopment project.

Copies of the Request for Qualifications will be available October 30, 2024 by email to Steven L. Santos at ssantos@townofhudson.org. Questions/RFI’s may be directed to ssantos@townofhudson.org.

All proposals are due to the Recreation Office by November 15, 2024 at 12:00 PM. Proposals shall be publicly opened in person at the Recreation Office. Any contract issued in response to a successful proposal must be approved by the Hudson Select Board. The Town of Hudson reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, and reserves the right not to make an award on this contract if doing so is in the best interest of the Town.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

PETITION# DSP-24-2

Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the Hudson Planning Board on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at 7:00 p.m., at the Hudson Senior Center, 1st Floor.

At this time, the Hudson Planning Board will consider the application of F & C Construction Corporation for approval of a Definitive Subdivision Plan showing the creation of lots and the streets and ways providing access and utilities thereto as shown in plans entitled 27 Cox Street, Hudson MA “Definitive Subdivision Plan Located in Hudson, Massachusetts,” prepared by Thomas DiPersio, Jr. P.E.P.L.S., dated October 24, 2024, pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 41, Section 81-T and 81-U, M.G.L. The subject property is located at 27 Cox Street, Hudson, MA, within the R15 Single-Family Residential Zoning District, Assessors’ Map 19, Parcel 161.

All petition materials are available for review in the Town Clerk’s Office during regular business hours, on the Town of Hudson website at https://go.boarddocs. com/ma/hudsonma/Board.nsf/ goto?open&id=D8HJCW4C42E2 and can be requested by calling (978) 562-2989 or by sending an email to kjohnson@townofhudson.org.

Hudson Planning Board

Robert D’Amelio, Chairman

LEGAL PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

The Hudson Conservation Commission will hold a Public Hearing relative to the following filing under the Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. Chapter 131, Section 40) as requested by Collin Murray, Quattro Sport LLC. The owner of the property is EHP Realty Corp. The work is located at 538 Main Street (Map-Parcel 34-35) The proposed project is construction of a commercial building, parking lot and driveways in Buffer Zone to Bordering Vegetated Wetlands. The Public Hearing will be held via remote video conference

on November 7, 2024 at 7:00 pm. Please contact the Conservation Commission Office for information on joining the meeting: phelinek@townofhudson.org or 978562-2948.

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

SHREWSBURY

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS FILED SUB-BIDDER PREQUALIFICATIONS (REISSUED)

The Shrewsbury Department of Public Works hereby requests qualifications from prospective Sub-Contractors for the construction of the 7.0 million gallon per day (mgd) Home Farm Water Treatment Plant (WTP) upgrades for removal of PFAS, in accordance with M.G.L. C. 149, ss 44D¾. The project with an estimated construction cost of Sixteen million and five hundred thousand dollars ($16,500,000) includes the construction of the new water treatment plant, and upgrades at related facilities within 600 consecutive calendar days of the date fixed in the Notice to Proceed.

The Town of Shrewsbury Department of Public Works is prequalifying prospective sub-contractors for the Fire Protection ($175,000) Filed Sub-Bid Trade only with this reissued Request for Qualifications.

Prequalification is a prerequisite for bidding on the Project, which is anticipated to begin in Spring 2025 The Request for Qualifications (RFQ) may be obtained on or after October 30, 2024 through the offices of Tata & Howard, Inc. the Project Designer, by contacting Donatien Djero at Tata & Howard, Inc., by email to: ShrewsburyRFQ@tataandhoward.com or by phone (508) 449-4350 between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM E.S.T., Mondays through Fridays, except Holidays, prior to the submission deadline.

Statements of Qualifications (SOQ) shall be received by the Town of Shrewsbury at the Department of Public Works, 100 Maple Ave, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, Attention Daniel Rowley, until 2:00 PM E.S.T., on Wednesday, November 20, 2024.

Participation in the bidding phase of this Project will be limited to filed Sub-bidders who have submitted a SOQ (and required supporting documentation) in response to the RFQs and that have been deemed prequalified by the Town of Shrewsbury.

Home Farm Water Treatment Plant, including the prequalification evaluation criteria and the selection process, is included in the RFQ available to the interested General Contractors electronically by using the contact information set forth in this advertisement.

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS PUBLIC HEARINGS

RICHARD D. CARNEY MUNICIPAL OFFICE BUILDING 100 MAPLE AVENUE SHREWSBURY, MA

November 20, 2024 6:30 PM

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

November 20, 2024 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Jason St. Pierre 21

Grafton Street, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts 01545 for two Special Permits to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaws Section IV.B and Section VI Table I to construct an inlaw apartment and extend a pre-existing non-conforming dwelling on property located at 4 Merriam Ave in the Residence B-1 zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 16 Plot 088000.

November 20, 2024 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Richard Ricker, 11 Maple Ave, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts 01545, for a Variance to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII-Table II to build a house twenty three (23’) feet from the side yard setback when thirty (30’) feet is required on property located at 42 High Street in the Rural A Zoning District. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 18 Plot 001001.

November 20, 2024 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Quoc Anh Tran, 57 Rosemont Ave., Waltham, Massachusetts 02451 for a Variance to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII-Table II for an addition that is forty four and sixth tenths feet (44.6’) from the front yard setback where fifty feet (50’) is required upon property located at 19 Appaloosa Drive in the Rural B zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 43 Plot 011011.

November 20, 2024 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Lloyd Brown, 36 East Street, Franklin, Massachusetts 02038, for a Variance to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII Table II to construct an enclosed front porch ten and eight tenths feet (10.8’) from the front yard setback when thirty (30’) feet is required upon property located at 12 Sadler Ave. in the Residence B-2 zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 32 Plot 157000.

November 1st & November 8th

Peter Mulcahy, Clerk

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY

The Select Board will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at 6:00 PM in the Selectmen’s Meeting Room to accept public comment on the issue of allocating the local property tax levy among the four classes of real property and of personal property for Fiscal Year 2025 pursuant to MGL Chapter 40, Section 56. Upon the conclusion of this public hearing, the Select Board will determine the percentages of the local tax levy to be borne by each class of real property, as defined in General Laws Chapter 59, Section 2A and personal property for Fiscal Year 2025.

At this hearing, the Board of Assessors will be present to provide all information and data relevant to the Select Board in making such determination and the fiscal effect of the available options.

Interested taxpayers, citizens, and/or residents are encouraged to attend this public hearing to offer any written or oral comments, email selectboard@shrewsburyma. gov, or mail any comments to the Select Board, 100 Maple Avenue, to be received by 12:00 PM on Tuesday, November 19, 2024.

Information related to this matter can be viewed and copies obtained pursuant to application statutes and regulations in the Office of the Select Board during normal business hours.

John R. Samia Chair, Select Board

NORTHBOROUGH

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

NORTHBOROUGH PLANNING BOARD

In accordance with the provisions of MGL Chapter 40A, Section 9, the Northborough Planning Board will hold a public hearing on November 19, 2024 at 6:00pm to consider the applications below. Pursuant to Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023, An Act Relative to Extending Certain COVID-19 Measures Adopted During the State of Emergency, signed into law on March 29, 2023, this meeting will be conducted via remote participation. No in-person attendance by members of the public will be permitted. To participate in the public comment portion of this public hearing, please click this URL to join: https://town-northboroughma-us.zoom.us/j/89049909408 Passcode:

531739 or join by phone: 1 646 876 9923

Webinar ID: 890 4990 9408 Passcode: 531739

Live Stream link YouTube: https://www. youtube.com/channel/UCRdBrw3HeEAMB_KFKasrgXA

To consider the application submitted by BD Homes, LLC for a Special Permit and Site Plan Review for the demolition of the existing structure and construction of a proposed two-family home on the property located at 343 Hudson Street, Map 30 Parcel 18, in the Residential C Zoning District and Groundwater Protection Overlay District Area 2.

To consider the application for Site Plan Approval and a Common Driveway Special Permit in the Residential A District for 3, 7 & 11 Reservoir Street, Map 42, Parcels 51, 52, & 53, submitted by the Estate of Robert Romeo. The proposed Common Driveway will serve three proposed singlefamily homes.

Both applications are on file at the Town Clerk’s office and Planning Department and may be viewed on the Planning Board webpage.

Kerri Martinek,

Chairman

SOUTHBOROUGH

Notice is hereby given by Ted’s of Fayville, 300 Turnpike Road., Southborough, MA 01772, pursuant to the provisions of G.L. c. 255, section 39A, that on Wednesday November 13, 2024 at 10 am an auction sale on the web based site of http:// sta.ibidsmart.com the following motor vehicles will be sold to satisfy our garage keeper’s lien thereon for storage, towing charges, care and expenses of notices and sale of said vehicles. Starting November 1, 2024 at 9 am, vehicles can be viewed at http://sta.ibidsmart.com.

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

2008 Toyota Camry VIN: 4T1CE30P58U766495

Owned by Crystal L Gauquier

2004 Toyota Corolla VIN : 2T1BR32E24C236864

Owned by Marcello Oliveira Correia

1999 Honda Accord Vin: JHMCG6672XC025814

Owned by Larry Roman

2008 Mercedes-Benz S550 VIN: WDDNG86X18A162784

Owned by: Joseph Capello

1970 Camping Traile VIN: Unknown

Owned by Andrew Taggart

2007 Lexus IS250 VIN: JTHCK262X72015100

Owned by Giovanni T Carrasquillo

2013 Honda Civic VIN: 19XFB2F57DE268415

Owned by Daisha E Calnan

2012 Chevrolet Cruze VIN: 1G1PG5SC9C7171932

Owned by Vinicius Freitas DaSilva

Unknown Trailer VIN: Unknown

Owned by John Doe

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

Publication Friday October 18, 25 and November 1, 2024 Community Advocate.

WESTBOROUGH

LEGAL NOTICE FOR SPECIAL PERMIT HEARING

In accordance with the provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 40A, Section 9 and Sections 3.1 and Attachment 1 (Use Regulation Schedule) of the Town of Westborough Zoning Bylaw, the Westborough Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, November 19th, 2024 at 6:30 PM on application record no. 24-03508, requesting a Special Permit and Site Plan Review for

the redevelopment of a portion of parking lot to a 2,400 square foot drive-up coffee shop. The location of the proposed project is 210 Turnpike Road (Assessor’s Parcel ID 27-58-0), Westborough, MA, located in the Highway Business Zoning District. The owner and applicant for the filing is 6 Humphrey Street Realty Trust.

The public hearing will be held in the Great Hall of the Forbes Municipal Building, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA. Please see the Calendar on the Town of Westborough Homepage (posted 48 hours prior to the public hearing) for additional information. To access the application and any submitted documents, please go to our online permitting system, PermitPro (https://westborough.patriotpermitpro.com/) and search the above referenced record number. Records are also available for review in the Westborough Planning Board Office at 45 West Main St., Westborough, MA during regular business hours.

Persons unable to attend may submit comments in writing to the Westborough Planning Board in advance of the public hearing.

WESTBOROUGH PLANNING BOARD

Hazel Nourse, Chair

LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REQUEST FOR DETERMINATION OF APPLICABILITY WESTBOROUGH, MA

In accordance with the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, MGL Chapter 131, Section 40, and the Westborough Wetlands Protection Bylaw, the Conservation Commission will conduct a Public Hearing held on Tuesday, November 12, 2024 after 6:30 PM at the Forbes Municipal Building, 3rd Fl meeting room, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA, for a Request for Determination of Applicability for 240-242 & 0 Turnpike Road (Parcel ID: 26-21-0 & 26-22-0) submitted by Kushal Patel for removal and replacement of two 4-inch diameter groundwater monitoring wells using of hand-operated tools as well as soil contaminant testing within jurisdictional resource areas.

LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE OF INTENT WESTBOROUGH, MA

In accordance with the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, MGL Chapter 131, Section 40, and the Westborough Wetlands Protection Bylaw, the Conservation Commission will conduct a Public Hearing to be held on Tuesday, November 12, 2024 after 6:30 PM at the Forbes Municipal Building, 3rd Fl meeting room, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA, for a Notice of Intent in the public right of way layout and in easements on privately held parcels along Otis St. and Route 9; filed by the Town of Westborough, Dept. of Public Works for construction of a shared use path known as BWALT, Section 1 as shown on submitted plans within jurisdictional resources areas.

LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REQUEST FOR DETERMINATION OF APPLICABILITY WESTBOROUGH, MA

In accordance with the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, MGL Chapter 131, Section 40, and the Westborough Wetlands Protection Bylaw, the Conservation Commission will conduct a Public Hearing held on Tuesday, November 12, 2024 after 6:30 PM at the Forbes Municipal Building, 3rd Fl meeting room, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA, for a Request for Determination of Applicability for 121 West Main Street (Parcel ID: 2018-0) submitted by the Town of Westborough, Dept. of Recreation for installation of fuel tanks with secondary spill containment, stormwater maintenance, and maintenance area changes within jurisdictional resource areas.

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

Ackil D.O., Joseph of Southborough Audette, Carol of Hudson Benesh, Judith of Marlborough Bowser, Jean, formerly of Marlborough Buckley, Eileen of Shrewsbury Germano, Joan of Northborough Kimball, Alice formerly of Marlborough LeBlanc, Romeo of Hudson Lindberg, Steven formerly of Shrewsbury

Mangan, Marie of Hudson Martin, Marcia of Northborough Maynard, Susan of Grafton and Sutton McNulty, Paul of Westborough Pirani, Barbara of Shrewsbury Sbrogna, Constance formerly of Shrewsbury

Serrentino, Philip of Hudson Sjogren, Carolyn of Grafton Wheelock, Michael of Northborough

Alice E. Kimball, 96

ORONO, MAINE - Alice E. Kimball, 96, of Orono, ME, passed away peacefully at her residence on Saturday, October 19, 2024, with her niece, Beth Kimsey, by her side.

Alice was born in Millinocket, ME, on March 22, 1928, the daughter of the late Jeremiah and Sophie (Thibodeau) Kimball. She was predeceased by her brother Captain George F. Kimball and her sisters Mary Gerry and Louise Kinnaly. She is survived by her sister-inlaw Caroline Kimball of Coral Gables and Marco Island, FL. She is also survived by five nieces Margaret Boxold of Springfield, MA; Judith Zucco, and her husband Peter, of Old Saybrook, CT; Elizabeth Kimsey, and her husband Michael, of Bangor, ME; Susan and her husband James, of Bailyville, ME; and Terese Peterson and her husband Michael of Millinocket, ME, as well as numerous great nieces and nephews, and grand nephews; very dear, longtime friend, Deanna Charves of Marlborough, MA. Brookings-Smith of Bangor, ME assisted the family.

Paul R. McNulty, 72

WESTBOROUGH - Paul R. McNulty, 72, of Westborough, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at home surrounded by his loving family. He was the husband of Christine L. (Teasdale) McNulty. Born in Troy, NY, he was the of the late Harold and Barbara (Film) McNulty.

In addition to his wife he is survived by two children, Margaret V. McNulty of W. Springfield and Frank A. McNulty of Westborough: one brother, David L. McNulty and his wife, Cathy, of Malta, NY.

The Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.

Dr.

Joseph A. Ackil,

88

SOUTHBOROUGH - Dr. Joseph A. Ackil, D.O. passed peacefully on October 18th at home surrounded by his family. Joseph is survived by his wife, Mary, children Joseph Jr (Cathy) Ackil, Jennifer (Jeffrey) Brandt, and 6 grandchildren; Joseph Ackil III, Bryan Ackil, Katherine Stallons, Thomas Ackil, Timothy Stallons and Matthew Brandt as well as his brother Dr. Albert Ackil, wife Ann, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Abdullah and Mary Ackil, sister Josephine George, brother Faris Ackil, sister Marion Solomon, and Michael Brandt.

A funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Matthew’s

The Morris-Johnston Funeral Home of Southborough assisted with arrangements.

Susan M. Maynard, 63

the late Mildred “Susie” (DeOrsey) and Richard Paquin. She leaves her husband Jeffrey, her loving daughter Jessica Bernard and her husband Shane and their daughter Teagan, her sister Cindy Paquin, her brothers Barry Paquin and his wife Karen and Ray Paquin and his partner Jay, her nieces Abbigail, Missy, Amy, Michelle and Stephanie and her nephew Richard. She was predeceased by her former husband Dennis Maynard.

Roney Funeral Home of North Grafton assisted with arrangements.

Carolyn R. Sjogren, 89

GRAFTON - Carolyn R. (Bessom) Sjogren, 89, passed away October 10, 2024 at home following a lengthy struggle with Alzheimer’s disease. Her husband of 66 years Robert Sjogren predeceased her in February of 2024.

Carolyn leaves her sons Michael and his wife Linda, Jerry and his wife Nancy, her daughter Diane Coz and several grandchildren, greatgrandchildren, nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her son Kenneth Sjogren, her brother Dr. Robert Bessom and her first husband Paul Flanagan who was lost at sea in 1955.

Roney Funeral Home of North Grafton assisted with arrangements.

Constance L. Sbrogna, 99

SHREWSBURY - Constance

SUTTON/GRAFTON - Susan M. (Paquin) Maynard, 63, passed away October 17, 2024 after being stricken ill at home. Susan was born in Worcester, daughter of

“Connie” L. (Uccello) Sbrogna, 99, formerly of Maury Lane in Shrewsbury, passed away on Saturday, October 19, 2024 in the Oakdale Rehabilitation and Nursing Center.

Her husband of sixty years, Joseph R. Sbrogna, predeceased her in April 2007. She is also reunited with her son, Samuel L. Sbrogna, who predeceased her in June 2009.

Connie is survived by a son, Joseph R. Sbrogna, Jr. and his wife Linda of Worcester; a sister, Helen Russo of Centerville, four

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

grandchildren, Lisa Sbrogna, Sarah Frizzi (Joe), Julie Yaskoski (Christopher), and Marybeth Casey (Richard); four great grandchildren, Calista, Samantha, Gabriella, and Emma; her daughter in law, Maureen Sbrogna and her husband Michael Bane of Worcester; nieces and nephews.

The Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel of Worcester assisted with arrangements.

Philip Serrentino, 82

HUDSON - Philip Serrentino, Sr., of Hudson and formerly of Waltham, died Friday October 18, 2024 at Marlborough Hospital while surrounded by his family. He was the husband of the late Catherine (Viscuso) Serrentino who died on April 29, 2023.

Philip was born and raised in Pachino, Italy and was the son of the late Vincent and Carmela (Amara) Serrentino. He leaves his son Philip Serrentino Jr. and his wife Paula of Hudson; 2 daughters, Carmela McDowell of Hudson and Marianne Barese and her husband Al of Hudson. He also leaves 9 grandchildren, Elizabeth Camara, Michelle Schlesinger, Brandon McDowell, Johnathan McDowell, Stephanie Prescott, Michael McDowell, Thomas Fitzsimmons, Philip Fitzsimmons, Ryan Fitzsimmons; four great grandchildren Dominic & Christian Camara and Julian & Peyton Schlesinger and many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his brother Joseph Serrentino of New York.

The Collins Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.

Steven A. Lindberg, 78

SHREWSBURY - Steven A. Lindberg, 78 formerly of Shrewsbury, MA passed away on Monday Oct 21st 2024 at UMASS Lakeside ICU due to complications from a severe stroke. He is predeceased by his parents, Barbara (Hamilton) Lindberg and Paul Lindberg of Holden. Steven leaves his wife of 34 years Diane (Berquist) Lindberg. He is also survived by his children, Lisa Judkins and her husband James Judkins of

Millbury, his son Paul Lindberg and his wife Junko Lindberg of NYC and his grandson, Quinlan Judkins of Millbury. His granddog Delta will also miss their walks and great naps. He is also survived by his four siblingsDavid Lindberg (and wife Jacqui) of NH, Donald Lindberg (and wife Lillian) of Holden MA , twin brother Stuart Lindberg ( and wife Noy) of Florida and his sister Pam O’Connor of Worcester MA.

Barbara A. Pirani, 86

SHREWSBURY - Barbara A. Pirani, 86, of Shrewsbury, previously of Holden, passed away on October 21, 2024. She is the loving wife of the late Albert R. Pirani with whom she shared over 60 years of marriage. Barbara will be lovingly missed and remembered by her children, William Pirani and his wife Eileen of Wading River, NY, Gayle Akillian and her husband William of Holden, and Gary Pirani and his wife Lissette of Holden; her grandchildren, Eric, Bryan, Sara, Steven, and Christopher; her sister Elizabeth Hanson and her husband Michael; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband of 62 years, Albert R. Pirani, in 2019.

Miles Funeral Home of Holden assisted with arrangements.

Michael A. Wheelock, 77

NORTHBOROUGH - Michael A. Wheelock, 77, of Northborough, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, with his beloved wife of 23 years, Michele, by his side. Michael is survived by his wife Michele, his daughter Andrea, his son Andrew and his wife Dani, and their two children, William and Avery. He is also survived by his sister Eloise. He was predeceased by his brothers, George and Robert Wheelock.

Chiampa Funeral Home of Shrewsbury assisted with arrangements.

Ball to be presented with Good Scout Award

WESTBOROUGH – On

Wednesday, Nov. 6, the Mayflower Council of the Boy Scouts of America will present James N. “Jim” Ball with the annual Good Scout Award.

The ceremony will take place at the Doubletree Hotel, 5400 Computer Drive. Reception will be held at 6 p.m., followed by dinner and program from 7 to 9 p.m.

“It’s exciting. It’s nice to be recognized,” said Ball. “I’ve lived in town for 60 years. The list [of prior Good Scout Award recipients] is pretty impressive.”

The award is particularly meaningful as his father, Nelson Ball, is a previous recipient. Ball is currently an atlarge member of the Community Preservation Committee. He is also the co-chair of the Westborough Public Library

Foundation and a past member of the Planning Board.

A native of Westborough, Ball graduated from the University of Massachusetts with a bachelor’s degree in finance. He established his own financial advising business in 1984. Today, he is the founder and president of EverRise, which specializes in investment advice, insurance, business, tax and estate planning.

Ball is also a director on the board of Avidia Bank in Hudson.

When not in the office, Ball likes boating at Lake Chauncy and golf, but family “is a big part of my extra time,” he said.

COMMUNITY CLASSIFIEDS

Ball’s son is in college in California, while his daughter is a sophomore in high school. His three sisters and brother live in the area, and their parents just moved into a guest house on Ball’s property.

Travel’s also a big part of Ball’s life; they just spent the summer in Thailand.

On what it means to be a Good Scout Award recipient, Ball said, “It’s giving back and supporting your community. It takes a lot to make a town work.”

The Good Scout Award is bestowed upon individuals who have demonstrated integrity and genuine concern

for others in both their professional and personal lives. The recipients need not have been Boy Scouts, but they must carry the spirit of Scouting into their adult lives. They are people who have been unselfish in their service to others on an individual and community basis. They seek no return for their service other than the satisfaction of aiding their fellow citizens, their community and their nation.

For information on the event, visit https://www.mayflowerbsa.org/2024-westborough-good-scout-awarddinner/

James N. “Jim” Ball

LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REQUEST FOR DETERMINATION OF APPLICABILITY

WESTBOROUGH, MA

In accordance with the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, MGL Chapter 131, Section 40, and the Westborough Wetlands Protection Bylaw, the Conservation Commission will conduct a Public Hearing held on Tuesday, November 12, 2024 after 6:30 PM at the Forbes Municipal Building, 3rd Fl meeting room, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA, for a Request for Determination of Applicability for 58 Warren Street (Parcel ID: 10-32A-0) submitted by Neil Johnson for grading associated with driveway replacement, within jurisdictional resource areas.

LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REQUEST FOR DETERMINATION OF APPLICABILITY

WESTBOROUGH, MA

In accordance with the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, MGL Chapter 131, Section 40, and the Westborough Wetlands Protection Bylaw, the Conservation Commission will conduct a Public Hearing held on Tuesday, November 12, 2024 after 6:30 PM at the Forbes Municipal Building, 3rd Fl meeting room, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA, for a Request for Determination of Applicability for 23 Quick Farm Road (Parcel ID: 4-239-0) submitted by Sanna Ahmed for grading and landscaping associated with new construction for a single-family dwelling, within jurisdictional resource areas.

LEGAL NOTICE

The Westborough Select Board will conduct a tax classification meeting on November 19, 2024 at 6:15PM, for the purpose of determining the allocation of Fiscal Year 2025 property taxes among residential, industrial, commercial and personal property. The hearing will take place at Town Hall-Memorial Hall (3rd

floor), 34 West Main Street, Westborough, MA 01581.

TOWN OF WESTBOROUGH NOTICE OF CABLE TELEVISION PUBLIC HEARING

Please take notice that the Board of Selectmen of the Town of Westborough, Massachusetts, as Issuing Authority for a cable television license under M.G.L. c.166A, will hold a public hearing on Monday, November 18, 2024 at 7:00p.m. The public hearing will be held in Memorial Hall at Westborough Town Hall, 34 West Main Street, Westborough, MA. The purpose of the public hearing will be to determine whether to issue a cable television license to Spectrum Northeast, LLC, an indirect subsidiary of Charter Communications, Inc. All applications, reports, statements and license drafts to be considered at the hearing that constitute public records under state law are available for public inspection during regular business hours and for reproduction at a reasonable fee. Members of the public are invited to attend and be heard on the topic: (a) whether the current cable operator is in full compliance with its currently-existing cable license; and (b) what are the Town’s future community cable-related needs.

Westborough Cable Advisory Committee

Brian McLaughlin, Chairman

Stephen Hart

Shelby Marshall

LEGAL NOTICE FOR SPECIAL PERMIT HEARING

2,400 square foot drive-up coffee shop.

The location of the proposed project is 210 Turnpike Road (Assessor’s Parcel ID 27-58-0), Westborough, MA, located in the Highway Business Zoning District. The owner and applicant for the filing is 6 Humphrey Street Realty Trust.

The public hearing will be held in the Great Hall of the Forbes Municipal Building, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA. Please see the Calendar on the Town of Westborough Homepage (posted 48 hours prior to the public hearing) for additional information. To access the application and any submitted documents, please go to our online permitting system, PermitPro (https:// westborough.patriotpermitpro.com/) and search the above referenced record number. Records are also available for review in the Westborough Planning Board Office at 45 West Main St., Westborough, MA during regular business hours.

Persons unable to attend may submit comments in writing to the Westborough Planning Board in advance of the public hearing.

WESTBOROUGH PLANNING BOARD

Hazel Nourse, Chair

MARLBOROUGH

REQUEST FOR DETERMINATION OF APPLICABILITY NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

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

Tami White proposes during the Fort Meadow Reservoir drawdown, to remove sand that has washed into the waterfront area at 70 Western View Dr. Plans and other information will be available in the Conservation Commis-

SUPER CROSSWORD

POLICE FIRE&

Scan QR code to read this week’s police and fire news on our website.

Police report multiple car break-ins in Hudson, Marlborough and Southborough

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

REGION – Police across the region are warning residents of reports of multiple break-ins.

On Oct. 24, the Southborough Police Department reported that multiple residents from Maple Crest Drive, Meadow Lane and Pinecone Lane said their cars were entered and had items removed the previous night. Credit cards were taken during one of the break-ins, and police said the suspects tried to use them in a neighboring town.

Southborough police said there were at least two suspects involved.

In Marlborough, the police department reported several break-ins in cars

near Taylor Road and Woodland Road. The Hudson Police Department is reporting break-ins near Stratton Road and Chestnut Street.

Police are reminding people to keep their cars locked and remove valuables.

The Southborough Police Department asked residents who live in the area to check their vehicles and for anyone with security cameras to check their footage to check for suspicious activity between 2 to at least 4 a.m.

In Southborough, break-ins can be reported at 508-485-2121. Det. Jeff Norton can be reached at jnorton@southboroughma.com. In Marlborough, anyone with information or to report a break-in should call 508-485-1212. In Hudson, call 978-562-7122.

One dead after overnight multicar crash

WESTBOROUGH – An overnight crash on the Massachusetts Pike resulted in a fatality and several injuries, according to the Massachusetts State Police.

On Tuesday, Oct. 22 at approximately 11:40 p.m., troopers from the Charlton Barracks responded to a three-car motor vehicle crash involving a tractor trailer on Interstate 90 West in Hopkinton.

One person – identified as David Fencil, 48, of Calvert City, Kentucky – was transported to the local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. Two other people were transported to the hospital for the treatment of minor injuries.

The accident briefly shut down the Mass. Pike (westbound). One lane remained

First responders were called to a three-car crash involving a tractor trailer. (Photo/Courtesy Westborough Fire Department) closed for several hours.

Among those rendering assistance included the State Police Collision Analysis Recon-

struction Services, Middlesex SPDU, Crime Scene Services Section and Westborough Fire/ EMS.

Car stolen in Westborough, vehicles entered

WESTBOROUGH – The Westborough Police Department is asking for the public’s help after it said a vehicle was stolen overnight.

On Oct. 25, at 7:10 a.m., a resident on School Street reported that the resident’s vehicle had been stolen. According to a press release from the department, officers received “multiple” reports from residents in the area that their

vehicles had been entered and had items stolen.

Police said several items from the stolen vehicle were located in Worcester.

The Westborough Police Department is working with Worcester police. Investigators are asking people who live in the area of School Street, South Street or High Street to review their security camera footage and report any suspicious activity.

The police are reminding residents to remove their keys and lock their vehicles when they’re not using them, take valuables out of their cars and close garage doors and other entry points overnight.

Anyone with information should contact Det. Sgt. Greg McRae by calling 508-4754844 or emailing gmcrae@ westboroughma.gov.

Southborough Police Department shared this still of security footage following the report of multiple car break-ins.

(Photo/Courtesy Southborough Police Department)

Immigration officials apprehend man charged with child abuse in Hudson

MARLBOROUGH – Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston has apprehended an unlawfully present Brazilian man who was charged locally with assault and battery on a child with an injury; assault and battery against a family or household member; two counts of strangulation or suffocation; and intimidation.

Officers from ERO Boston arrested Mateus SilvaKerkovshy, 24, on Aug. 16 in Marlborough.

“Mateus Silva-Kerkovshy allegedly committed some extremely violent acts against a child with an injury and represents a dire threat to the residents of Massachusetts,” said ERO Boston acting Field Office Director Patricia H. Hyde. “We cannot allow such a threat to remain in our communities.

ERO Boston will continue to prioritize the safety of our public by aggressively arresting and removing egregious noncitizen offenders from our New England neighborhoods.”

According to a press release from ERO Boston, U.S. Border Patrol arrested Silva Oct. 22, 2021, after he reportedly unlawfully entered the United States near San Luis, Arizona.

U.S. Border Patrol issued Silva a notice to appear before a Department of Justice immigration judge and took him into custody.

U.S. Border Patrol released

Silva from custody after he was granted parole on Oct. 29, 2021.

On March 29, 2023, a Department of Justice immigration judge ordered Silva removed from the United States to Brazil.

The Hudson Police Department arrested Silva on Aug. 9 on the assault-related charges. Later that day, the Marlborough District Court arraigned Silva.

ERO Boston lodged an immigration detainer against Silva on Aug. 9 with the Marlborough District Court.

The Marlborough District Court transferred Silva on Aug. 16 into the custody of ERO Boston at the Marlborough District Court’s detention facility. Silva remains in ERO custody.

ERO conducts removals of individuals without a lawful basis to remain in the United States, including at the order of immigration judges with the Justice Department’s Executive Office for Immigration Review.

The Executive Office for Immigration Review is a separate entity from the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. As one of ICE’s three operational directorates, ERO is the principal federal law enforcement authority in charge of domestic immigration enforcement.

Chase on Route 20 results in firearm charges

SHREWSBURY – A chase on Route 20 resulted in the arrest of a Webster man on firearmrelated charges.

On Oct. 24 at 6:38 p.m., Shrewsbury police pulled over a vehicle for an equipment violation on Route 20 near the intersection of Route 140. In a press release, the Shrewsbury Police Department said that officers saw multiple open containers of alcohol and a fanny pack on the passenger seat.

When police asked the driver to step out of the vehicle, the driver hesitated, an officer opened the door and the driver

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

Westborough

Tuesday, Oct. 15

7:07 p.m. Arrested, Geraldo Saturnino Da Silva, 20, of 8 Greendale Ave., Apt. 3, Worcester, for op MV with license suspended, no inspection sticker.

10:13 p.m. Arrested, Ronald Alexander Portllo Rivas, 26, of 42 Kingsbury St., Apt. 1, Worcester, for OUI-liquor or .08%, marked lanes violation, negligent operation of motor vehicle, unlicensed operation of MV.

Marlborough

Saturday, Oct. 19

1:04 a.m. Arrested, Miguel A. Regalado, 27, of 15 Grove St., Hudson, on true warrant.

Sunday, Oct. 20

9:17 p.m. Arrested, Marvin Obdulio Villeda, 38, of 109 Silver Leaf Way, Apt. 14, Marlborough, for OUI-liquor or .08%, unlicensed operation of MV, leave scene of property damage.

Monday, Oct. 21

5:14 p.m. Arrested, William Anthony Riccio, 62, homeless, Marlborough, for sex offender fail to register/level 2 or 3.

Tuesday, Oct. 22

7:08 p.m. Arrested , Josue Cambara, 27, homeless, Hudson, on true warrant, indecent exposure.

Wednesday, Oct. 23

8:11 p.m. Arrested, Sheerley Deleon, 22, of 47 Pond St., Framingham, for larceny over $1200, conspiracy, and Jaris Krystal Argueta, 20, of 157 Irving St., Framingham, for larceny over $1200, conspiracy.

Grafton

Tuesday, Oct. 22

10:26 a.m. Arrested, Matthew J. Clark, 44, of 14 Worcester St., Grafton, on warrant of apprehension.

Shrewsbury

Thursday, Oct. 17

10:39 a.m. Arrested, Maria Regina Francisca De Carvalho, 46, of 207 Central St., Hudson, for unlicensed operation of MV.

Friday, Oct. 18

6:46 p.m. Arrested, Ashley Marie Cora, 23, of 7 Sturgis St., Apt. 3, Worcester, for disturbing the peace, disorderly conduct, A&B.

Saturday, Oct. 19

2:39 a.m. Arrested, Jean Carlos Nieves-Valentin, 24, of 20 Baker St., Worcester, on warrant.

Monday, Oct. 21

5:59 p.m. Arrested, Amanda Rose Kapulka, 32, of 420 Main St., Cherry Valley, for possession Class B substance; Anthony M. Larose, 38, of 427 Hamilton St., Apt. 3, Worcester, for receive stolen property - $1200; and Lindsay Ann Chiras, 40, of 44 Temple St., Worcester, for possess Class A.

6:20 p.m. Arrested, Kathryn Jillian Baker, 23, of 14 Flint Pond Dr., North Grafton, for possess Class B substance, and David Locklear, 28, of 14 Flint Pond Dr., North Grafton, for possession Class B substance, warrants.

9:06 p.m. Arrested, Trevor J. Maguire, 34, of 234 Central St., Newton, for inhale glue/toxic substance, shoplifting by asportation.

Thursday, Oct. 24

10:59 p.m. Arrested, Michael R. Landry, 65, of 7211 Avalon Way, Shrewsbury, for OUI liquor, neg operation of MV (operate to endanger).

Friday, Oct. 25

12:35 p.m. Arrested, Gilbert Morin, 38, of 111 Beaconsfield Rd., Apt. 2, Worcester, for poss Class B substance subsequent offense, carry firearm without license.

Sunday, Oct. 27

1:10 a.m. Arrested, Lucas Lobo Dutra, 19, of 14 Magnolia Ln., Marlborough, for A&B, assault, A&B on police officer, disorderly conduct, disturbing the peace.

5:40 p.m. Arrested, Jose Geovanny Amuy Benavides, 39, of 168 Grafton St., Apt. 4, New Haven,

Shrewsbury Police Department reportedly found this 9mm handgun and ammunition in a fanny pack.

(Photo/Courtesy

Shrewsbury Police Department)

sped off, the release stated. Officers pursued the vehicle eastbound on Route 20 at a high rate of speed. When the driver tried to enter the ramp to Route 9, he collided with another vehicle, the department said.

According to police, officers on scene saw that the fanny pack was no longer in the vehicle and initiated a search for it. It was reportedly located on Route 20 about a mile from the traffic stop.

Police said they found a 9 mm handgun that was loaded with 11 rounds of ammunition,

CT, for unregistered vehicle, marked lanes violation, miscellaneous MV equipment violation, unlicensed operation of MV, attach plate not assigned, forgery of document, identity fraud.

Southborough

Friday, Oct. 4

10:43 a.m. Arrested, Zheng Yu, of Turnpike Rd., Southborough, on warrant.

Sunday, Oct. 6

1:31 a.m. Arrested , Elisney Rodrigues De Oliveir, of S Wilder St., Lowell, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, marked lanes violation.

Monday, Oct. 7

8:44 p.m. Arrested, Leonardo A. Rodriguez, of Hastings St., Marlborough, for op MV with license suspended subsequent offse.

Wednesday, Oct. 9

1:34 a.m. Arrested, Alex Charlier, of E Main St., Marlborough, for license not in possession, speeding/rate of speed exceeding posted limit, negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08%.

Thursday, Oct. 10

2:03 a.m. Arrested, Elmer A. Herrera, of Centre St., Jamaica Plain, for speeding in construction zone, warrant.

9:52 p.m. Arrested, John O’Brien, of Edgewater Dr., Framingham, on warrant, op MV with license suspended, no inspection sticker.

Saturday, Oct. 12

1:38 a.m. Arrested, Mark A. Spear, of Boston Rd., Southborough, for speeding/rate of speed exceeding posted limit, op MV with registration suspended, possess open container of alcohol in MV, negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08%, uninsured motor vehicle.

4:07 a.m. Arrested, Steven J. Fuller, of Lamper Hill Rd., Auburn, for speeding/rate of speed exceeding posted limit, op MV with license suspended.

Sunday, Oct. 13

2:35 a.m. Arrested, Andrew N. Bates, of Summer St., Medway, for speeding/rate of speed greater than was reasonable and proper, negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08%.

and its serial number had been defaced.

According to the department, the suspect, Tarrell Berry, 33, of Webster, did not have a license to carry firearms. Berry was charged with failing to stop for police, carrying a firearm without a license, possession of a large capacity firearm, possession of a firearm with a defaced serial number, resisting arrest, possession of an open container of alcohol in a motor vehicle, negligent operation of a motor vehicle and multiple civil motor vehicle infractions.

Saturday, Oct. 19

2:03 a.m. Arrested, Ryan C. Tapply, of Barclay St., Worcester, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, willfully obstruct emergency vehicle, fail to stop for police, speeding/rate of speed greater than was reasonable and proper, no inspection sticker.

Tuesday, Oct. 22

11:51 p.m. Arrested , Marcio De Arruda, of Weld St., Framingham, for op MV with license suspended, speeding/rate of speed exceeding posted limit.

Thursday, Oct. 24

6:21 p.m. Arrested, Nicholas A. Gomes, of Willow St., Westborough, for op MV with license suspended.

Friday, Oct. 25

12:09 a.m. Arrested, Jhon K. Da Silva Souza, of Sumner St., Marlborough, for MV lights violation, unlicensed operation of MV, no inspection sticker.

Sunday, Oct. 27

3:05 a.m. Arrested, Victor Marcelo Pimenta Oliveira, of Richardson St., Malden, for marked lanes violation, unlicensed operation of MV, no inspection sticker, OUI-liquor or .08%.

8:02 a.m. Arrested, Wallisom Teixeira Da Silva, of Broad St., Marlborough, for op MV with license suspended, op MV with registration suspended.

COMMUNITY SPORTS

By Evan Walsh Reporter

WESTBOROUGH – The pressure inside the Westborough High School gymnasium was palpable.

Shrewsbury won the first two sets, and Algonquin had taken the next two. During a three-minute intermission before the winner-take-all, championship-deciding fifth set, both teams tightly huddled around their coaches to strategize about the season-defining sequence ahead.

But the gameplanning among the Colonials was remarkably simple. Despite losing the last two sets to Algonquin, Shrewsbury came out loose and focused. In perhaps the season’s most dramatic moment for the team, Shrewsbury Head Coach Brett Crandall had one simple message.

“Have fun.”

“Honestly, I told them to

just go out there and have fun. We put so much pressure on ourselves. Once [Algonquin] won two sets, it became real.

All of a sudden we were playing tight, we weren’t playing with the same energy we were playing with earlier. So, I encour-

aged them to just play — have fun. And they did, we built from there. I’m really happy for them,” Crandall told the Community Advocate.

The strategy had instant returns as the top-seeded Colonials took down the secondseeded Algonquin Titans 3-2 to become back-to-back CMADA Class A champions. Last year’s CMADA championship was another narrow, five-set thriller between the two Central Mass. rivals.

taking pictures with teammates, friends, and family. The hardware was certainly well-earned for the Colonials, who went 14-6 during regular-season action with three wins against Algonquin in that timespan.

ing an immediate two-set lead. The first set — a 25-14 Colonial win — featured six straight Shrewsbury points on the serve of senior Ava Lynch. Strong serving from Anna Marderosian and captain Grace Garbarino led the Colonials to a 25-15 second-set victory. Looking to close out the win, Shrewsbury fought through the third set, but four consecutive points on Julianna Zimmer’s serve made a 12-12 tie an Algonquin 16-12 lead. The Titans held onto the third set, 25-19, and took the fourth more convincingly, winning 25-16 and forcing a winner-take-all fifth set.

The Colonials jumped out to an early 11-4 lead and survived a late Algonquin rally to win the decider 15-11. Two serves from Hester helped Shrewsbury open the set strong, while the Colonials’ Lauren Albertson served for three crucial points to help build the lead.

“It feels great. I knew it was going to be a battle — Algonquin’s always tough. Regardless of who has got what for talent, it’s always a battle. They showed it. It was a phenomenal match by both teams. We had a little better of a match in the fifth, and that’s what it came down to,” said Crandall.

Shrewsbury players handed around the tournament plaque after the hard-earned win,

“It feels really good. This is who we played last year, and we’ve worked so hard this season. Our hard work is paying off. I’m so proud of everyone on our team. We all really came together and fought, and I’m just so proud of everyone,” said junior captain Gracie Hester.

“I’m just so proud of our team. It’s such a rewarding feeling to win such a big game like this. Obviously, it was a nail-biter, and we definitely had a lot of nerves, so to win it in the end — it was a great feeling,” said fellow captain Gianna Boyers, who registered 12 kills in the match.

It looked to be a blowout early, with Shrewsbury tak-

“I think we were really just able to get our energy back up and get back to where we were in those first two sets. We got a little down on ourselves, in our heads, but I think it shows that we can turn it around within the few minutes we have between sets,” said Garbarino.

“This is our first five-set win of the year. Knowing you can win that fifth set — it’s something you don’t know if you have until you’ve done it. That’s big for us going forward,” Crandall said. “From there, it’s knowing that we can face adversity … We know what our potential is, and now we know we can reach that.”

Shrewsbury won the CMADA Class A championship on Oct. 24. (Photo/Evan Walsh)

Grafton football rolls past Tantasqua on Senior Night in ‘The Swamp’

By Evan Walsh Reporter

GRAFTON – At the end of every Thursday practice, Grafton works on getting into “victory formation.”

But the play — designed to be a time-waster — was especially meaningful at the end of the Gators’ contest against Tantasqua on Oct. 25. With just seconds remaining and the victory secured, Head Coach Chris McMahon called his collection of younger athletes to the sideline.

Amid cheers from fans and teammates, Grafton seniors entered the game to take the final knee, capping a 42-0 win on Senior Night in their last regular-season action in “The Swamp.” After the final whistle, McMahon proudly gathered his group of seniors for a post-game picture.

The seniors “mean everything” to the program, and it was only right to have them finish the game, said McMahon.

“Day in, day out over the last couple years, they’ve literally been the backbone of our program, and many of them played big roles last year and the year before as sophomores. On the field, they’re great. Off the field, they’re great. As a coach, you hope and dream you get players like this,” he said.

And McMahon’s gesture didn’t go unnoticed among the players. Many of the athletes have known one another since elementary school, they said, and have been playing together since youth football. In their last hurrah as Gators, the players have made it their mission to put on a show for the community.

“These guys, that group of 11 that went in, we’ve been playing together since third grade. Some guys have joined along the way like myself. It’s a special group of guys. It’s really unique to be able to do this on a Friday night in front of everybody,” said Finn Gilmore, one of the senior captains.

“We do everything together … You can’t break up a brotherhood that’s this close. You just can’t,” he added.

Victory against Tantasqua

The Gators are now 7-0, having outscored their opponents 284-31. Four of the wins

have been shutouts, and the team has won each game in “The Swamp” by 40 or more.

The team’s dominance was on full display against Tantasqua.

“It’s all the kids. It’s how much the kids buy into it; it’s how much the kids are willing to work. We’ve been fortunate to have great kids, and we, as coaches, look at it as guiding them through this whole

process. The kids have done a great job of buying in and doing what we’ve asked them to do,” said McMahon.

Senior Griffin Landry gave Grafton an immediate spark, recovering a Tantasqua fumble on the opening kickoff. From there, Landry scored two touchdowns (a 10-yard run and 26-yard pass) in the span of four minutes, putting Grafton firmly ahead of Tantasqua

before the second quarter.

Though the Gators — ranked No. 3 in the latest MIAA Division 4 rankings — are undefeated and gearing up for another playoff run, the team remains grounded. Grafton takes the field for practice at 8:30 p.m. every Wednesday; while the sun is down and the campus is quiet, the Gators are putting the work in.

“We have the same goal all

the time, every season, no matter what year: We want to have a great next day of practice. We think everything else will fall into place. We’re a day-by-day, week-by-week team, and, in a lot of ways, we’re a period-byperiod team. We think that every rep on the practice field matters,” said McMahon.

“Nothing is ever enough for us,” said Gilmore. “We’re staying locked in.”

I, Robert R. Franger, DPM, would like to thank the Town of Shrewsbury and surrounding communities for the opportunity to practice Podiatric Medicine and Surgery at 626 Main Street, Shrewsbury, MA. I have had the privilege to grow with the community, providing care for thousands of patients/wonderful people over the past 42 years I’ve been in practice.

I’d also like to publicly acknowledge my office staff, who have provided a welcoming atmosphere and compassionate care for our patients.

I have officially retired as of Aug. 30, 2024. As many may already know, my daughter, Dr. Elizabeth Franger, and her husband, Dr. Frederick Kaestel, joined my practice on July 5, 2023, and are treating established and new patients at 626 Main Street, Shrewsbury.

They are both Board Certified in foot and ankle surgery and manage the full range of foot and ankle pathology. I’m very proud of them and their work ethic and dedication. I have complete confidence in their abilities to continue providing excellent care.

With gratitude, Robert R. Franger, DPM

Grafton’s Finn Gilmore is wrestled down while moving the ball upfield.

Finn Gilmore is lifted into the air by Bobby Johnson. (Photos/Evan Walsh)