MBTA zoning, DPW facilities to go before Town Meeting
By Evan Walsh Reporter
SHREWSBURY – MBTA zoning, local government reform, and Department of Public Works facility upgrades are set to be discussed on Nov. 18, when Shrewsbury’s elected body of 240 representatives will gather at Oak Middle School for a Special Town Meeting.
The Select Board signed the warrant on Oct. 22, and the Finance Committee voted on Nov. 7. Here’s an overview of some of the night’s biggest topics.
Article 6 would appropriate around $2 million to fund the design of a proposed renovation of the town’s 207-211 South St. DPW facilities. In April, the Town Meeting | 5
Library repair project currently estimated at $13.6 million
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – The Westborough Public Library repair project is currently estimated to cost $13.6 million — a reduction of the amount presented earlier this year.
Director Kate Coraccio made her first appearance at Town Meeting on Monday, Oct. 21.
She was there with Bob Petrocelli, vice chair of the Library Building Committee, to present an update on the library repair project.
They said that design development goals were “on target,” with final cost estimates to be ready before year’s end. Bids are expected to be announced
| 11
Frank Brown: WWII veteran, business owner, unlikely artist
Northborough resident Frank Brown sits at Dunkin’. (Photo/Evan Walsh)
By Evan Walsh Reporter
NORTHBOROUGH – Frank Brown grew up in a small town in Vermont 10 miles from Montpelier. The son of a wood-chopper, Brown was educated in a one-room schoolhouse. He went to high school for all of two weeks before he’d had enough.
At 15, he came by train to Worcester to live with his mother. His love of movies made the decision to move easy — there were few theaters in the wilderness of Vermont — but he was motivated by something deeper. World War II was raging, and 17-year-old Brown decided to join the U.S. Navy — he wanted to see more of the world.
“I never saw anything but Vermont,” Brown told the Community Advocate at
Dunkin’, where he eats every morning. “I never saw the ocean and I couldn’t swim, either. My brother joined the Navy, so I figured that was a good place, so I went into it. I didn’t know anything at the time.”
He imagined traveling the world and sailing the high seas on a brand-new warship. But Brown’s far-flung dreams of exploration were squashed when, after finishing bootcamp, he was ordered to a tugboat in Boston. The in-state assignment wasn’t exactly the adventure he envisioned.
However, Brown’s ironic twist of fate would foreshadow what the rest of his life would look like. Through sheer happenstance and several strange coincidences, Brown entered the television industry, started an iconic Northborough busi -
The Ground Round will return to Shrewsbury
shrewsbury | 6
NORTHBOROUGH | 14
Three Habitat for Humanity duplexes proposed for Boundary St. A fourwheeled history of World War II
westborough | 20
Stay up to date with all the news!
Frank Brown | 11
Happy Holidays
Christopher Heights o season of your life! In our community you will be surrounded by the support and understanding of your Christopher Heights family. You will also enjoy quality care, well–balanced meals prepared with fresh seasonal ingredients, lively group activities, and your own private apartment. Don’t weather the seasons alone, let us take care of you in your new home!
Christopher Heights o ers unique senior lifestyle environment to call home and make friends, enjoy daily happy hour and daily enrichment and your own private apartment! Don’t weather the seasons alone, let us care for you in your new home!
Christopher Heights o ers unique senior lifestyle plans to t every season of your life! In our community you will be surrounded by the support and understanding of your Christopher Heights family. You will also enjoy quality care, well–balanced meals prepared with fresh seasonal ingredients, lively group activities, and your own private apartment. Don’t weather the seasons alone, let us take care of you in your new home!
To learn more about our senior lifestyle plans or to schedule a tour, call 508-281-8001 today. Welcome Home!
learn more about our senior lifestyle plans or to schedule a tour, call 508-281-8001 today. We would to hear from you!
To learn more about our senior lifestyle plans or to schedule a tour, call 508-281-8001 today. We would love to hear from you!
SHREWSBURY – Drone photography shows the Shrewsbury Town Common. There are three articles on the Town Meeting warrant concerning the First Congregational Church. The church is asking for Community Preservation Act funds for lightning protection, trim repairs and an architectural study. (Photo/Tami White)
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TO THE EDITOR
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Veterans Luncheon caps DeManche’s career as senior center director
By Maureen Sullivan, Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – Alma DeManche capped her 41 years as director for the Westborough Senior Center with one of her favorite events.
On Friday, Nov. 8, she welcomed local veterans to the center’s annual luncheon. Before the meal was served, DeManche went to almost every table, greeting guests.
“How many times we’ve been doing this … 30, 35 years,” DeManche asked the veterans.
“This has truly been one of my pet projects.”
The event started in honor of her father, Ted Rose, a staff sergeant in the Marine Corps who served during the Korean War.
“This has always been one of my favorite events,” she said. “It’s an honor to be with these men and women. The little pieces of stories I hear from some of them are amazing.”
The Veterans Luncheon was not the only final event attended by DeManche. On Wednesday, Nov. 6, the center hosted a reception in her honor.
DeManche is officially director until Dec. 31; she underwent knee surgery on Nov. 12, and she will spend her final six weeks in recovery.
The town will be posting the position soon, according to Town Manager Kristi Williams. In the meantime, the center’s staff will provide coverage.
“My staff is very capable and will rise to the occasion,” said DeManche.
A Fundamental Step
PUBLISHER/EDITOR: David Bagdon
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The Community Advocate is a weekly periodical, (U.S.P.S. # 014-423), published by Bagdon Advertising, Inc., with offices located at 32 South Street, Westborough, MA 01581. Periodicals postage is paid at Shrewsbury, MA 01546 and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Please send address changes to: Community Advocate, 32 South Street, Westborough, MA 01581. Publication date is Friday. Deadline for R.O.P. advertising, local community news and classified advertising is Friday, noon, seven days prior to publication. Not liable for typographical errors, however, we will reprint that portion of the ad wherein error occurred if notified in writing within three working days of the publication date. All material included is the property of The Community Advocate and may include material produced under copyright or a syndicated ad service. Permission must be obtained in writing before reproducing any material from any issue of the Community Advocate.
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Malting is a fundamental step in whiskey making, involving the germination and drying of barley to develop the essential enzymes needed for fermentation. The process begins by soaking barley in water, allowing it to sprout, which activates enzymes that convert the grain’s starches into fermentable sugars. This germination phase is carefully monitored to ensure optimal enzyme activity. Once the barley has sprouted, it is dried in a kiln to halt germination, preserving the enzymes and imparting distinct flavors. The resultant malted barley, rich in enzymes and sugars, is then ground into a grist and mixed with hot water to extract fermentable sugars in a process known as mashing. Malting is crucial as it sets the stage for fermentation. There’s a whiskey for everyone, from American single malt and bourbon options made in the States to age-old peaty expressions from Scotland and up-and-coming whiskies from promising distillers in Australia. The Spirits department at JULIO’S LIQUORS carries many hard-to-find items from single malt scotches to high-end vodkas and gins. Every Wednesday we offer free whisky tasting to the public. For more information, please call 508366-1942, or visit us at 140 Turnpike Rd., Rt. 9 East P.S. The use of peat in the drying process can introduce smoky, earthy notes to the malt, a characteristic particularly associated with Scotch whisky.
Ryan Maloney, owner
Alma DeManche says a few words at the start of the annual Veterans Luncheon. (Photo/Maureen Sullivan)
Nelson joins Avidia as chief financial officer, treasurer
HUDSON – Jonathan Nelson has been hired to serve as chief financial officer/ treasurer at Avidia Bank.
“We’re delighted to bring Jon’s financial expertise and vast treasury experience to Avidia to foster financial discipline and informationbased decision-making that will lead to future
success,” said Avidia President and CEO Robert Cozzone.
Avidia leaders said that Nelson’s hiring is part of their strategic commitment to future growth.
Nelson has over two decades of experience working in finance and treasury for large and small financial institutions.
Most recently, he served as the senior vice president and treasurer for Independent Bank Corp., which is the parent company
of Rockland Trust. He successfully guided the bank through several mergers and acquisitions in this role and has experience in capital planning, derivatives, fixed-income securities, interest-rate risk, liquidity risk, strategic planning and corporate finance.
Nelson previously worked as the institution’s asset/liability manager and has also worked at Skowhegan Savings Bank of Maine and Cape Cod Bank.
Upcoming Events @ Julio's
Planteray
Metro West Mini
Splits recognized
SOUTHBOROUGH – Metro West Mini Splits has received the Better Business Bureau of Central New England’s Award for Marketplace Excellence — Veteran-Owned Business Award.
In an announcement, Metro West Mini Splits thanked the BBB for the award.
A Night With Oxbow Brewing Company
and the Julio’s beer department as we welcome Oxbow Brewing Company hailing from the great state of Maine. This classroom style tasting event will dive into the story of oxbow and how they got their start all while trying our favorite beers from the brewery.
“Being involved with the community and working diligently to achieve consistent levels of high customer service has allowed our small business to thrive,” the company wrote.
The awards recognize businesses that have exhibited excellence in marketplace ethics, leadership and community engagement.
“We are honored to celebrate businesses that exemplify the highest standards of trust and integrity in the marketplace,” said BBB President and CEO Alex Guardiola.
For more information on Metro West Mini Splits, visit https://metrowestminisplits. com/.
Parents sought for survey on substance use
NORTHBOROUGH/SOUTHBOROUGH – The Encompass Coalition is looking for community members in Northborough and Southborough to participate in two surveys.
The first survey is for parents and caregivers to provide input on substance use in the community. The data collected will complement student data collected through the MetroWest Adolescent Health Survey. This survey can be found at https://tinyurl.com/3pb98urc.
The second survey is being given by the Central Metrowest Substance Awareness and Prevention Collaborative, which is working on a cannabis/marijuana prevention campaign targeted at parents and caregivers. It will allow people to provide feedback on cannabis messaging.
The survey can be found at https://www.surveymonkey. com/r/CMSAPC.
Encompass is a community coalition focused on preventing and reducing substance misuse in Northborough and Southborough.
Jonathan Nelson
MBTA zoning, DPW facilities to head before Town Meeting
Town Meeting | from page 1
Select Board formed the Municipal Facilities Optimization Committee (MFOC), which was tasked with reviewing the state of the DPW facility and returning with a “preferred design concept and budget.”
Constructed in the 1950s, the Water and Sewer Garage (207 South St.) is an 11,000-squarefoot facility that town officials and employees alike have said is “at the end of its useful life.” The 30,000-square-foot Highway Garage (211 South St.) was first constructed in 1976 and houses the Highway Division, Parks and Cemetery Maintenance Division, Fleet Management Division, and Public Buildings Division.
Over the course of several meetings, the MFOC recommended a $26.8 million design that included the demolition of the Water and Sewer Garage and a 21,600-square-foot addition to the Highway Garage. In subsequent meetings, an additional $5.5 million was proposed for work on Town Hall.
Town Meeting in November will be asked to appropriate funds for the design of the project. The town plans to call a Town Meeting in April 2025 to ask for a borrowing authorization, with a possible town-wide vote planned for that May. If the borrowing is approved, construction could start in August.
Article 9 is the long-awaited MBTA zoning vote. The town is proposing a contiguous, 118-acre zone that contains three main parcels: Shrewsbury Commons, 409 South Street and Emerald Run.
As part of the 2021 MBTA Communities Act, Shrewsbury must zone for approximately 1,500 housing units, which is equal to 10% of the town’s current housing stock. Town officials have opted to zone on pre-existing density — or areas that will soon have residential density — to limit the amount of expected development.
Article 10 is a citizens’ petition from Gregg Richards with signatures from about 180
Holiday Gift Guide
residents. The article would, if approved, change the town’s Planning Board from an appointed body to an elected body. According to Richards, 70% of towns with a Planning Board elect their members, including several local communities.
“What better way to expand engagement and interest with the towns and committees than to allow that board to be elected? Elections and the campaign process bring awareness to not only the Planning Board, but also the impact those individuals may have on the community,” Richards said Nov. 7.
Opponents of Article 10 point to the possible politicization of the Planning Board; residents also commented about how some people who wish to meaningfully contribute to town may not want to go through an election process. Town Manager Kevin Mizikar said that due to several technical shortcomings, the article may not be accepted by the state if approved by Town
Kids Shop returns Dec. 7.
SOUTHBOROUGH – Boy Scout Troop 92 will be sponsoring the annual Kids Shop on Dec. 7.
The event will take place in St. Anne’s Parish Hall from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Kids Shop is a fun and affordable place for children to do their holiday shopping. Scouts will help shoppers pick out gifts for their loved ones in a safe and supervised environment. There will also be coffee and a bake sale. Proceeds will benefit a local charity.
Meeting.
The town’s current government model was initially formed in 1953. Since July 2017, Mizikar has fielded 37 Planning Board applications from 26 different residents. In that time, he has made eight appointments. The board’s five members serve five-year terms; one associate member serves a one-year term.
Article 11, Article 12, Article 13, and Article 14 are all brought forth by the Community Preservation Committee (CPC). Three of the articles (11-13) ask Town Meeting to fund renovations to the First Congregational Church in the center of town. Article 14 would continue the effort to restore historic gravestone markers in Mountain View Cemetery.
Article 11 seeks funds to install “lightning protection” for the church. The building is currently not protected, according to project documents. Article 12 at Town Meeting would fund $5,200 of “trim repairs,” and
Article 13 would fund a roughly $10,000 “architectural survey” of the church. Project documents outline that the east side of the church (along Boylston Street) has some rotted and warped boards. There are also structural problems with the wooden floor.
As a private entity, the church — which asked the Community Preservation Committee for the funds — is eligible for the projects through its status as a historic landmark. There was debate in CPC meetings dating back to July as to whether some of the proposed projects were maintenance issues (not eligible) or preservation issues (eligible).
“I don’t want the town or the [CPC] to be viewed as a crutch, and [so organizations] can decide to defer maintenance and not have to pay for it because they know they can go to the [CPC] and not have to pay for it. That’s my fear. I think there has to be some fiduciary responsibility,” Richards said on Nov. 7.
The
By Evan Walsh Reporter
SHREWSBURY – The Ground Round will make a grand return to Shrewsbury.
According to a signage permit — and confirmed by local entrepreneur Joseph Shea — The Ground Round will be coming to 261-271 Boston Turnpike (Route 9). Bauhinia — the Chinese-Japanese restaurant that once occupied the building — has closed.
The Ground Round has a long history in Shrewsbury. The restaurant operated at 225 Boston Turnpike — now the site of a Walgreens — before closing in 2004. Prior to becoming The Ground Round, the building was the home of Howard Johnson’s and the Squires Lounge.
“You would be hard-pressed to find someone in Shrewsbury who does not have the fondest memories of The Ground Round. Locals — and not just in Shrewsbury — bring up how much they miss the restaurant.
Round
With a quick Google search you will find The Ground Round in many articles as one of the most missed restaurants of our past,” Shea told the Community Advocate.
“We have an incredible dining room and having the family atmosphere is absolutely a big part of what we intend to be. Myself and many other locals
recall going to The Ground Round for family dinners, after practice, games, events or gatherings. It was the place to get together with friends and family,” he continued.
The location could open as soon as Jan. 1.
Shea went before the Select Board on Aug. 13 to get an alcohol license, victualler license,
It’s back! The Ground Round will open in Shrewsbury as soon as Jan. 1.
(Photo/Evan Walsh)
and entertainment license. The fact that the restaurant would be The Ground Round wasn’t disclosed at the meeting, but Shea alluded to turning the space into a family-friendly restaurant.
“We are looking to build a family-style restaurant and try to bring the idea of family dinners back, family nights
out back. We’re looking to utilize a little bit of today’s modern technology and efficiency with a hint of nostalgia,” Nachi Souza Shea, the future manager of the restaurant, said at the meeting. “It’s a great location.”
The Shrewsbury restaurant will be an official The Ground Round location. Joseph Shea has purchased the rights and trademarks to the company name, and going forward, the “pulse” of The Ground Round will be based in Shrewsbury. There are four other restaurants in the U.S.; the closest one is located in Ohio.
Joseph Shea owns Pure Source Water Systems, a Shrewsbury-based company, and formerly owned CrossFit 1727. Nachi Souza Shea has restaurant experience and was formerly the youngest holder of a liquor license in Worcester. The Select Board unanimously approved of all licenses.
“We want to bring an incredible product to Shrewsbury,” said Joseph Shea.
Big Y pulls permits for former Stop and Shop site
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – Several months after announcing it was coming to town, Big Y Supermarket is about to start work on its new location at 290 Turnpike Road.
Applications for building permits were pulled in late September. Plans call for the interior to be fitted out. Work will include new interior slab, walls, lighting, walk-in coolers, shelving, fixtures and finishes.
The interior totals 41,448 square feet.
Planning Director Jennifer Gingras said the permit for the fit-out was issued on Nov. 5. “They do not need Planning Board approval since there are no alterations to the parking or building. The use is also the same as the previous one,” she said. An exact timeline has yet to be announced, although two signs at the site said the opening will take place soon.
Big Y will be located in the former home of Stop and Shop that was originally planned to house an Amazon Fresh. Ashley Homestore also occupies some of the former Stop and Shop space.
A Big Y supermarket is preparing to move into the Speedway Plaza on 290 Turnpike Road. (Photo/ Maureen Sullivan)
Frank Brown: WWII veteran, business owner and unlikely artist
ness, and, eventually, became an artist.
From Navy to Northborough
Brown’s time aboard the Boston tugboat did not mark the end of his military service, though he stayed there as World War II ended. After a brief stint at the Great Lakes Naval Station, Brown received perhaps his dream assignment — a placement on a brandnew destroyer touring South America. It was the world travel he’d dreamed about from his earliest days in Vermont.
Except the next day, Brown came down with the mumps. As the ship bound for South America left the port, he remained in the hospital and was eventually sent to San Francisco, California, to do work on radioactive ships. The role involved lots of showering, geiger counters, and blood tests.
Brown finished his U.S. Navy service in 1948.
He bought a house in Northborough in 1954 — he still lives there today, 70 years later — and married his wife, Rhea. The family had four children: Frank, David, Paula, and Michael. Northborough was like “the boonies,” said Brown, but he didn’t have money, land was cheap, and the location enabled him to work at a Worcester Wyman-Gordon factory.
That’s when another fortuity happened. Brown loaned someone money, but when payback day arrived, the person
didn’t have the cash on hand. Instead, he offered Brown a used manual on radio and television equipment. Brown wasn’t happy about the offer, but “something’s better than nothing,” and he started reading the booklet.
“My coworkers told me afterwards that I should’ve never trusted that person. I took the book. I started reading it one day, and I kind of liked it. I learned how to fix radios and TVs and became a TV guy. When my son got out of school, we opened a store,” said Brown.
From industry to art
Brown’s TV & Appliance is now known by most Northborough residents. First opened in the 1970s near Sawyer’s Bowladrome, the store moved to its current location inside the
repair project currently estimated at $13.6 million
around December or January, and they will be due and opened in time for the March 2025 Town Meeting.
The estimate is below the projection of $16.2 million presented at the Annual Town Meeting in March. Since then, the Library Building Committee has worked with the Library Trustees and the design team from Vertex to trim the budget.
Recently, the library was notified that it did not have to rebuild the front entrance to have it comply with ADA standards. That resulted in a savings of about $500,000.
If approved, the repair project would replace the 1908 slate roof; replace the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system; restore the historic windows; install more restrooms; upgrade the electrical and fire suppression systems; meet Americans with Disabilities Act compliance; restore the adult areas in the historic building; create a dedicated teen space; and improve program space.
Coraccio said there will be opportunities for the public to learn more about the project. Learn more at https://www. westboroughlibrary.org/ about/repair-project/
movies. I got into the movierental business. It just took off,” said Brown.
And in another serendipitous twist, the television business led to another unexpected chapter in Brown’s life. Brown was fixing a television one day and, after doing his repair, turned to a random channel to ensure it worked. German art instructor Bill Alexander popped onto the screen.
The television screen lit up as it was supposed to — and so did the lightbulb above Brown’s head.
Northboro Shopping Center along Route 20 in the 1980s. Brown later gave the business to two of his sons, who later sold it to another group, but the store still remains today.
“I just got lucky, I guess. That’s why it was successful. I had my whole family working there. It just seemed that things took off. That’s when the VCRs came out and the
“The guy comes on, and he starts putting stuff on the painting. I said, ‘That’s pretty nice.’ I’d like to do that. I thought I could do that. I went to Spag’s and got the canvas, paint, and brushes,” said Brown, who went as far as Cape Cod to source materials for his paintings.
Bob Ross — an American painter who hosted television shows — was another inspiration.
“I used to tape it on my recorder upstairs and I’d run
down to the cellar and paint a little bit. I’m running up and downstairs watching it, doing a little bit at a time. Finally, I got pretty good at it. I started doing it for the heck of it,” Brown said.
The art spent some time in the garage, but decades later, it was made available to the public at Applefest to raise funds for a new kitchen at the American Legion post. He remembered painting 30 or 40 pieces, but when he went into the garage to retrieve them, he found over 100 paintings.
The paintings aren’t the only thing that Brown — a Quilt of Valor recipient — has given away. He’s well-known for offering his home-grown vegetables to the community. He also makes pens in his spare time.
For Brown, it’s been a strange road filled with coincidence, but one thing links his military service, TV repair business, artwork, and, finally, his vegetable garden.
“I just like helping people out,” he said.
Frank Brown | from page 1
Frank Brown received his quilt at Vincent F. Picard American Legion Post 234. (Photo/Laura Hayes)
Aging Gracefully
by MariAnn Paladino, Dir. of Admissions, Notre Dame Long Term Care
BALANCE PROBLEMS
People are more likely to have issues with balance as they age. In fact, balance problems are among the most common reasons older adults seek help from a doctor. Having good balance means controlling and maintaining the body’s upright position. Symptoms for balance disorders include lightheadedness, blurred vision, having a spinning sensation (vertigo), and falling or feeling like you’re going to fall. Some disorders are caused by problems in the inner ear, which is responsible for balance. ere are ways to lower one’s risk of falling, and for those having trouble with balance, it’s important to speak to a physician as soon as possible to determine the cause so the proper course of treatment can be established.
Sometimes, balance problems can be a lifelong condition. In this case, a vestibular rehabilitation therapist can work with you to create a treatment plan that can maintain quality of life. NOTRE DAME LONG TERM CARE CENTER is committed to providing residents with opportunities that enrich and enhance their well-being. Please call (508) 852-3011 to learn more about our long-term care center at 559 Plantation Street.
P.S. Nausea and changes in blood pressure are other symptoms of a balance problem.
Notre Dame Health Care
Long Term Care
559 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA
508.852.3011 · notredamehealthcare.org
Managing Grief During the Holidays
FAMILY FEATURES The holidays, as well as birthdays and other celebrations, are o en di cult for anyone who has experienced the death of a loved one, particularly during the rst year of adjusting to life without them.
e holiday season may result in a renewed sense of grief, especially as well-intentioned individuals are encouraging those who are grieving to participate in traditional festivities. While there can be joy in being together with family and friends, the holidays can also bring feelings of sadness, loss and emptiness. For those who nd themselves struggling with grief during the holidays and other celebrations, consider these ideas from Remembering a Life, an online resource from the experts at the National Funeral Directors Association.
Talk About Grief
Grief isn’t a linear journey. Ignoring pain and emotions won’t make it go away. Don’t be afraid to talk about grief with others. Con ding in close family and friends can help a grieving person feel heard and understood.
Establish Boundaries During the Holidays
Friends and family may encourage a grieving person to participate in the holiday just as they normally would. While these intentions are typically good, it is important for the bereaved to set boundaries and
focus on what they want. While grieving, one should
do.
Acknowledge the Loss
Families can nd ways to honor their loved one’s physical absence during holiday celebrations by incorporating their spirit into celebrations and holiday traditions. Examples of this could be decorating ornaments in ways that are symbolic of a loved one, cooking their favorite meal or making a memorial donation to a favorite charity.
Re ect On and Embrace Fond Memories
Memories of a loved one, both from the holidays and other special times, are an important legacy. Rather than ignoring these memories, talk about them with family and friends. It’s OK to laugh and it’s OK to cry. One way to facilitate this activity is with Remembering A Life’s Have the Talk of a Lifetime Conversation Cards, which can help families share stories and memories about loved ones and themselves. It can make for a meaningful activity during holiday gatherings.
It is important to remember that even though an individual may be grieving, they can still celebrate and enjoy the holidays. Find support and resources for grief during the holidays and other special times of the year at RememberingALife.com.
Paid for by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.
Source: National Funeral Directors Association
New Horizon retirement community in Marlborough provides comfort for residents while enabling them to foster relationships with both their peers and the staff. The Assisted Living Program offers access to all independent amenities along with the option of available personal-care services. Services are provided by certified home health aides under the direct supervision of licensed nurses, who are scheduled on site 24 hours a day.
Immediate availability, including three home-cooked meals daily, starting at $2,400/month for one resident.
Westborough had a large dairy industry in the nineteenth century
By Kate Tobiasson History Columnist
WESTBOROUGH – From the start, dairy was a valued product in Massachusetts; the Pilgrims brought the first cow to Plymouth in 1624. It remained a valuable good in the state, even as life and economy rapidly evolved. Throughout the 18th and early 19th century, many families lived on self-sufficient farms. Fathers and sons worked the fields, while mothers and daughters made meals, tended the home, made clothing, and maintained the livestock, as well as processing any dairy. As the country became industrialized and families moved away from this model, the dairy business boomed.
Westborough had a successful dairy industry, thanks to the opening of the BostonWorcester railroad in 1834. Farmers shipped milk each day to the Boston market in a freight car attached to the morning passenger train. Locally, dairy wagons drove from house to house, disseminating milk from a large metal container. At each home, the milkman would use a dipper to ladle milk from this container and transfer it to a pitcher or other container. Throughout the day, the milk would be continuously contaminated with an assortment of debris.
The revolutionary invention of glass milk bottles in 1885 led to improved quality as well as more efficient storage and transportation of dairy products. The gallons of milk cows in town produced grew from 1,055 to 521,268 from 1865 to 1885. As the farms grew, Westborough dairymen worked together forming collective cooperatives; none proved successful at growing profits and each was dismantled in less than a decade. Farmers struggled to get fair prices from the market, effectively and efficiently store and transport milk, and to collectively industrialize.
In 1911, an outbreak of tonsillitis struck Boston. Over 1,400 people were sickened, and 48 died. The illness was traced back to contaminated milk from Deerfoot Farms in Southborough. After the incident,
Deerfoot Farms began in-bottle pasteurization, becoming the most famous and one of the very few dairies to do so at the start of the 20th century; Westborough dairy farmers were not able to afford to pasteurize their own product.
“A lot of milk in the 1930s and 1940s went to the New England Milk Association in the Worcester district where dealers distributed it to big
dairies like Meola, Lundgren and Joaitis, or Hood,” explained Jonathan Nourse of the Nourse Family Farm in Kristina Allen’s Off the Beaten Path. “Westborough had mainly small dairies, and they didn’t process their own milk.”
In 1932, a Child Health Association was established in Westborough. After completing their inspections, it was evident that nearly 52% of the
sick children in town were ill due to contaminated milk.
The town worked to create a pasteurization lab at the high school downtown, but families preferred to buy the less expensive raw milk. Children continued to get sick.
Numerous similar outbreaks across the state led to a number of milk regulations implemented in the early 1930s. In 1931, the 40 dairies in town agreed
to have their herds inspected; nearly 500 cows were infected with tuberculosis and were slaughtered.
The state began inspecting and registering dairy farms for safety in 1932, and in 1937, they began to regulate the price of milk. These regulations significantly helped public health, but impacted local families’ abilities to profitably run a dairy farm. It became increasingly difficult to find labor, especially after World War II.
Still, there were 30 dairy farms in Westborough in 1950, and 17 of these farms had over 25 cows. Then, regulations passed requiring all milk be stored in large bulk tank coolers; they were more sanitary than the old milk cans, but cost thousands of dollars. In 1967, there were 15 dairy farms; in 1972 there were eight. By 1984, Howard Uhlman was the last dairy farm remaining in town; the dairy closed after a 1996 fire destroyed the farm. Today, not a single dairy cow calls Westborough home.
Sponsored by Chief Joseph Robert J.
Westborough dairy farmer Anson Warren enters his house in 1865, with milk jugs on the front steps. Cows grazing near Hoccomocco Pond, circa 1920-1939.
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor
NORTHBOROUGH – Three
duplexes of affordable housing are being proposed for town-owned land on Boundary Street near the future dog park.
The Northborough Affordable Housing Corporation is a private 501(c)(3) nonprofit that was founded in 2008 with the purpose of supporting the creation of affordable housing in town, according to a memo to the Select Board. Since 2014, NAHC has been able to add nine units of affordable housing to the town with a 10th expected to be added shortly.
The corporation is partnering with Habitat for Humanity Metrowest/Greater Worcester on a project at 150 Boundary St. NAHC’s Rick Leif and Habitat Executive Director Debbie Maruca Hoak went before the Select Board on Nov. 4 to gauge its thoughts on the project as there would need to be a Town Meeting article to
donate the property to Habitat for Humanity.
What is proposed Northborough had purchased the site to construct a sewer treatment plant. NAHC and Habitat for Humanity have submitted an application to the Community Preservation Committee for funding to create 14 affordable housing units — eight to be created by the Housing Authority in a new building in Colonial Village for veterans and six on the Boundary Street site, which is 2.07 acres. According to Leif, the Housing Authority has been working with the state Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities and received the thumbs up to construct the new building in Colonial Village.
According to Maruca Hoak, the Boundary Street project proposes a shared driveway leading to three duplexes. Two of the duplexes would contain two units, each with
four bedrooms, and the third duplex would house two units with two bedrooms.
In a memo to the board, Habitat for Humanity is proposing to construct the project in two phases. According to Maruca Hoak, each phase is expected to take a year. Phase one would include the site work along with one of the four-bedroom duplexes. It is estimated to cost $1.4 million, with $400,000 to be possibly contributed by the Community Preservation Act (CPA) funding during the 2025 Town Meeting, $975,000 from Habitat with Humanity and $25,000 from NAHC.
Phase two calls for the construction of the remaining duplexes. This phase is estimated to cost $1.3 million with $425,000 to be requested in CPA funds during the 2026 Town Meeting and $875,000 from Habitat. According to Leif, there are CPA funds in reserve for affordable housing.
Between the two projects, Northborough’s affordable
housing percentage will increase to 10.51%.
Leif said the nonprofit is interested in affordable housing from two perspectives.
The first is ensuring that the percentage of affordable housing remains over 10% so that the town would not be subject to unfriendly 40B projects, which allow developers to bypass certain zoning restrictions. Northborough’s percentage is currently 10.28%; Leif noted that it had been over 11% at one point.
Leif also said the corporation believes there is still a need for affordable housing.
“As long more market rate housing is built in town – and that is happening at a continuing rate — at some point we’re going to fall below the 10%,” said Leif. “We feel the time is right to at least add some level of affordable housing back to the town of Northborough, and opportunities are presenting themselves to that.”
Community Preservation Committee is expected to re-
view the application on Dec. 5.
Trail
During the Select Board meeting, resident Cindy Burns, who lives on Boundary Street, voiced concerns about impacts to nearby wells. She also noted that there is a trail running through the property. She said hikers enter a trailhead on the street, and the trail crosses the street to Millham.
“But it’s a loop trail that’s been set up, and it goes right through the center of that property,” said Burns.
Select Board member Laura Ziton said that Burns was referencing the Boroughs Loop trail, which connects trails in Northborough, Southborough, Marlborough and Westborough. Leif said they would look into it, as he was unaware of it.
Planning Director Laurie Connors said that as a condition of approval for the project’s comprehensive permit the developer could be required to shift the location of the trail.
Donations of new unwrapped toys, gift cards, personal care items, paper products and new warm clothes from infants to teens will be accepted.
Donations are also being accepted in the station lobby through Dec. 7.
All donations will go to St. Anne’s Human Services and Shrewsbury Youth and Family Services.
Crawford sets up shop as economic development coordinator
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – The town’s newest economic development coordinator is getting better acquainted with her new job and the community.
During the annual Downtown Trick-or-Treat event on Tuesday, Oct. 29, Lara Crawford handed out candy, and visited
several businesses, dressed as the March Hare from “Alice in Wonderland.”
She is now prepping for another town tradition – the annual Holiday Stroll and Tree Lighting on Sunday, Dec. 1.
“I hope to continue community engagement,” she said.
Crawford was born in Newton. She worked with her mother in a small business in Newton
and later in Nantucket.
She earned her master’s in business administration; her first job was with the Boston Redevelopment Authority’s Back Streets program.
“I loved being the ‘in between’” with the city’s businesses and municipal officials, she said.
She moved to Austin, Texas, where she learned about the
world of clean energy and green buildings.
“I got to know the technology,” she said.
She then went to Houston, where she learned the oil and gas business.
Back in Massachusetts, Crawford left the workforce for several years. She got back into it when the EDC coordinator position became available.
• Use one of our many common areas for your reading room or office.
• Entertain your family and friends in one of our theaters, conference rooms, or garden patio seating areas.
• Explore new activities/adventures
• Swim in our indoor 84-degree lap pool
• Exercise in the on-site health and fitness club
When asked why she took the job, Crawford said, “Westborough has a lot of open and green space. This is a town with a lot of valuable assets.”
She currently lives in Wellesley Hills.
Since she began in early October, Crawford has been developing a range of programs and initiatives, from acquainting developers and real estate offices with the town’s new zoning amendments, to signage and online permitting.
Over the long term, Crawford said she would like to develop more economic opportunities based on “where the town’s strengths in industry lie.”
“She has done a great job of certainly thinking outside the box,” said Community Development Director Fred Lonardo. Crawford presented some of these programs during her first appearance at the Economic Development Committee on Tuesday, Nov. 5.
Community Thanksgiving Dinner on Nov. 28
WESTBOROUGH – For the 53rd consecutive year, the Westborough Community Thanksgiving Dinner will be held on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Nov. 28, at 1 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus Hall on Willow Street.
The menu will include a traditional Thanksgiving dinner of turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, butternut squash, fruit cup, cranberry sauce, apple cider, rolls and butter, pie and friendship.
This free holiday gathering is open to all members of our community, and is made possible by a broad coalition of local service organizations, many volunteers and local sponsors. Reservations are required. Call the Westborough Senior Center at 508-366-3000 by noon on Friday, Nov. 22, to save your seat. Free transportation is available to and from dinner for Westborough residents. Let them know when you make your reservation if you will be needing a ride.
For more information, contact dinner Chairperson Roberta Brown at 508-330-8200 or Rbrown67@verizon.net.
Shrewsbury marks Veterans Day with ceremony
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – Community members gathered in front of the former Maj. Howard W. Beal School to mark Veterans Day on Nov. 11.
“Veterans Day is a day to respect, honor and remember all of our service members – those who remain with us and those who have passed on,” said Sen. Michael Moore.
Moore said it takes a “certain type of person” to join the military.
“Someone whose love of their country drives them to protect the ideals of our nation both here at home and abroad; someone who is willing to put their life on the line in pursuit of freedom for themselves, for their family and for generations of people that they will never meet; someone who understands that only freedoms that we have are the freedoms we are willing to fight for,” said Moore.
Members of the military come from all backgrounds,
he said.
“At the end of the day, who you are, what you look like or where you come from is not what makes you an American; what makes you an American is the love we hold for our fellow citizens and our collective pursuit for a better future and
a future where everyone has the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, just as the founding fathers intended,” said Moore.
The ceremony featured performances of the military branch songs by the thirdgrade chorus at Walter J. Paton
Elementary School and a laying of a wreath at the World War I memorial. In addition to Moore, the event included remarks from Select Board Chair John Samia.
Samia, who recalled the history of Veterans Day, noted that today, decades after the day began to be recognized, the community is bound by a common purpose.
“We’re here to honor and respect the service of the men and women among us who have served or currently serve our country to preserve freedom and democracy for all of us,” he said.
Fred Russell lays the wreath in front of the World War I memorial as part of the Veterans Day celebration. (Photos/Laura Hayes)
Maj. John Travers speaks during the Veterans Day ceremony.
OPEN FOR BUSINESS
Applauding Business Friendly Leadership
Each year, the select boards of the towns the Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of MetroWest (serving Westborough, Northborough, Southborough, Shrewsbury, Grafton) hold Property Tax Classification Hearings to determine the rates at which residential, commercial, industrial and personal property are taxed.
Historically, the select boards of our towns have voted to maintain a single tax rate as a business friendly model and our communities have thrived with a solid base of businesses, jobs, resources, and tax revenues. The Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of MetroWest urges our elected town leaders to continue to vote to maintain a single tax rate system for the following reasons:
(1) A single tax rate promotes a business friendly climate for new business growth, job creation, and existing business expansion. (2) A split tax rate
UPCOMING EVENTS:
would put our towns in the minority of Massachusetts municipalities and place our region at an economic disadvantage. Of the 351 cities and towns in Massachusetts, 69% of all towns in the Commonwealth maintain a single tax rate. (3) A split tax rate is a significant sign to new and existing businesses that a city or town is not “business-friendly”. It is often one of the first, if not the first, question that new businesses ask when looking to locate in a particular location. (4) Business uses minimal town services/resources (public schools, recreation etc.) (5) The towns receives significant income in personal property taxes from local businesses and that revenue is part of the tax base which helps offset real estate taxes for residents. (6) Single tax rate helps to keep Corridor 9/495 region competitive by retaining existing businesses and enables our towns to sustain its fiscal well-being. (7) Approximately 80% of U.S. businesses are considered “small” businesses and 95% of Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of MetroWest members are small businesses with 10 employees or less. If there were any
decision to move toward a split tax rate, it would paint a very different picture of local officials trying to support small businesses in their towns. A split tax rate would result in higher property expenses that would be passed onto the tenants (small businesses) either directly or by higher asking rents. Because of triple-net leasing, tenants of commercial spaces not only pay their rent and utilities, but also the maintenance of the space, the insurance, and property taxes. (8) The businesses of our communities are the backbone of the town’s local economy and often intricately involved in the community with financial and volunteer support. A vast number of companies contribute greatly with scholarships for students, grants to our local schools, donations to the food pantries, and sponsors of athletic and community events. Yet, if business is struggling to exist, they can’t afford to give generously; and, if they are out of business, or have moved out of town, they will not be here to give anything at all.
11/19/2024 | WEBINAR: PROTECT YOUR BRAND AND BUSINESS WITH TRADEMARKS 9:30-10:30 am
11/21/2024 | THE GREAT NETWORKING BASH Great Wolf Lodge, Fitchburg, 4:30-7:00 pm
Karen Chapman, President & CEO, Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of MetroWest
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – Those attending veterans’ events in town, such as Memorial Day or Veterans Day, may notice a vintage World War II Jeep among the vehicles.
The Jeep — model 1944 — belongs to Jerry Rivard, a combat veteran of the Vietnam War.
“I was at Tet [Offensive],” he said.
Rivard served in Vietnam as a tractor-trailer driver for 18 months.
“I remember driving over pontoon bridges,” he said.
After the war, Rivard worked for the town’s Department of Public Works for 10 years and served on the Veterans Advisory Board.
The Jeep is the third owned by Rivard, who lives in Grafton.
“It’s the most photogenic Jeep I’ve ever owned. I enjoy driving it,” he said.
Inside the vehicle, Rivard
has a collection of vintage military artifacts, from bayonets and a radio to helmets.
“It’s all my stuff,” he said. Rivard participated in the town’s Veterans Day observances on Nov. 11.
As part of the ceremony, the town honored James Tepper as the “Veteran of the Year.” Tepper served as an officer with the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. Dur-
ing his tour of duty in Vietnam, he flew helicopters with the Marine Utility Helicopter Squadrons 164 and 165.
After the war, Tepper remained with the Reserves as a helicopter pilot. He retired in 1997 with the rank of lieutenant colonel.
A Westborough resident since 1977, Tepper has served on a number of boards and committees, including the
Advisory Finance Committee and Veterans Advisory Board.
“Today is a day of celebration, not mourning,” Tepper told the crowd in front of the Forbes Municipal Building.
“Veterans Day is a reminder to stop and say thank you…” Tepper pointed out that 2024 marks the 70th anniversary of Veterans Day, which was changed from Armistice
Day to honor veterans from all wars.
“I’m proud of his service,” said state Rep. Hannah Kane (R-Shrewsbury) who presented a citation from the State House, along with state Rep. Kate Donaghue.
“They sacrificed so that we all may have a voice,” said Select Board member Sean Keogh, who also presented a citation to Tepper.
Jerry Rivard shows his 1944 Jeep on the Westborough Rotary.
James Tepper, a Marine Corps veteran who served during the Vietnam War, speaks during Westborough’s annual Veterans Day observances on Monday, Nov. 11. (Photos/Maureen Sullivan)
Rolling Rally honors veterans
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NORTHBOROUGH – Community members gathered along Main Street on Nov. 10 to honor local veterans and their families as part of Boros Cares 4 Troops’ annual Hometown Heroes Rolling Rally. (photos/Cheryl Arsenault)
Local Scouts help fill food pantry shelves
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
REGION
– On Saturday, Nov. 9, hundreds of Boy Scouts throughout the region took part in the annual Scouting for Food drive, helping to collect, deliver and sort donations for local food pantries.
In Northborough, troops used the parking lot at Trinity Church as a staging area.
Across several tables, Scouts unpacked donations, checked them for damage and expiration dates then boxed them for delivery to the Northborough Food Pantry nearby.
“It’s a great thing for the food pantry, and it’s fun every year,” said Jim VanderPoel of Northborough Troop 101.
Another member of the
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NORTHBOROUGH
NORTHBOROUGH ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
In accordance with the provisions of MGL Chapter 40A, Section 9, the Northborough Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, November 26, 2024 at 7pm, in Conference Room B, 1st floor of Town Hall, to consider the applications below. This meeting will also be conducted via Zoom. To participate in the public comment portions of this meeting from a PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone, or Android device, please click this URL to join: https://town-northborough-ma-us.zoom.
us/j/84075375325 or join by phone: +1 646 876 9923 Webinar ID: 840 7537 5325
Passcode: 311390 Live Stream link YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRdBrw3HeEAMB_KFKasrgXA
Consideration of the petition submitted by Tad Jaillet for a Dimensional Variance for insufficient frontage for a proposed addition to a single-family house on the property located at 68 Shadylane Avenue, Map 76, Parcel 43, in the Residential C Zoning District and Groundwater Protection Overlay District Area 2.
Consideration of the petition submitted by Allstate Glazing Ltd for a Special Permit, Site Plan Approval and a Special Permit in the Groundwater Protection Overlay District, to allow the operation of an auto glass replacement business on the property located at 130 East Main Street, Building A, Map 47, Parcel 16, in the Residential C Zoning District and Groundwater Protection Overlay District Area 2.
Consideration of the petition submitted by Aniket Pandit for a Use Variance for operation of a home occupation (business office for a mobile dog grooming business) within a townhouse on the property located at 27 Solomon Pond Road, Unit C, Map 30, Parcel 29, in the Residential C Zoning District and Groundwater Protection Overlay District Area 2.
Consideration of the petition submitted by ZHS Trust for Modification of Site Plan Approval and a Use Variance to allow the
troop, John Magoun, said the food drive has been happening for more than 50 years.
“It’s interesting, seeing all the kids work together,” he said.
Just over the hill, pantry staff and volunteers distributed the donations to awaiting
shelves.
“We accept anything that’s shelf stable,” said Bridget Uzar, co-director of the food pantry.
In addition to the Scouting for Food drive, the pantry will be taking in holiday donations from the Northborough Helping Hands Association.
For information on Helping Hands, go to https://northboroughhelpinghands.org/
For information on the Northborough Food Pantry, go to https://nfpantry.org/nfp/
Meanwhile, the Forbes Community House in Westborough was where several
troops, including the all-girl Troop 11 of Hopkinton and Westborough, conducted their drive.
Downstairs, troop members collected and weighed the donations, then brought them upstairs for sorting.
“It’s really fun,” said Eleanor Johnson of Troop 11, the daughter of Assistant Scoutmaster Andrew Johnson, who helped with the sorting.
“It’s interesting to see what comes in,” said Andrew Johnson.
Polly Thayer, director of the food pantry, said “in-demand” items include pasta sauce, cookies and crackers, and Dinty Moore beef stew.
For information, visit https://westboroughfoodpantry.org/
operation of a senior living facility with a proposed decrease of 22 dwelling units, proposed increase of 53 parking spaces and associated modifications on the property located at 39-43 King Street, Map 82, Parcel 31, in the Business West Zoning District and Groundwater Protection Overlay District Area 3.
Applications can be viewed in the Planning Department during business hours or online at https://www.town.northborough.ma.us/zoning-board-appeals/pages/currently-under-review-zba.
Brad Blanchette, Clerk
HUDSON
PUBLIC NOTICE OF HEARING
Notice is hereby given that the Hudson Community Preservation Committee will hold a public hearing under the provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 44B, Section 5, on Wednesday, December 11, 2024 at 7:00pm, in the Community Meeting Room of the Hudson Police Station, Municipal Drive. The hearing is to approve the Community Preservation Plan that identifies the needs, possibilities and resources of the town regarding community preservation funds.
The Community Preservation Plan may be viewed at the Town Hall, Town Clerks Office or on the website at www.townofhudson.org under the Community Preservation Committee.
The Committee will also be accepting Applications until Tuesday, December 3, 2024 at 12:00 noon, for projects to be considered for submission to the May 2025 Annual Town Meeting. Applications must be sent electronically to lghilonicpc@ gmail.com AND by submitting ten copies to the Community Preservation Committee, 78 Main Street, Town Hall, Hudson, MA 01749. Applicants will have the opportunity to meet with the Committee on Wednesday, December 11, 2024 to support their projects submission to the warrant.
Hudson Community Preservation Committee
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, December 3, 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 in Hudson, Massachusetts,” prepared by Thomas DiPersio, Jr. P.E.P.L.S., dated October 17, 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 SingleFamily 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=DAPMV35D026C 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 NOTICE
In accordance with Chapter 40, Section 56, as amended, the Hudson Select Board will hold a public hearing on Monday, December 2, 2024 at 7:00 PM, in the Community Room of the Hudson Police Station, 911 Municipal Drive, Hudson to determine what percentage of the local tax levy will be borne by each of real and personal property.
At this public hearing the Board of Assessors will provide all information and data relevant to helping the Select Board make a determination of a single or multiple tax rate and the fiscal effect of the available alternatives to taxpayers. Taxpayers may present oral or written information on their views prior to or at the public hearing.
SHREWBURY
LEGAL NOTICE
The Shrewsbury Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday evening, December 5, 2024 at 7:00 PM, in the Selectboard’s Hearing Room at the Richard
D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, to hear the application of Yatco Energy, 313 Boston Post Road, Marlborough, MA 01752 for Site Plan Approval by the Planning Board as required by the Town of Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII.F.3 to construct a 7,015 square foot retail building housing a gasoline service station, convenience store with drive thru window and a 4,825 square foot car wash as shown on plans entitled, “Site Plan Site for Proposed Development,” dated June 21, 2024; prepared by Civil Design Group, LLC, 21 High Street Suite 207 North Andover, MA 01845 ; stamped by Philip R. Henry P.E., consisting of twenty- two (22) pages. The subject project is located at 193 Hartford Turnpike, easterly of Lake Street and northerly of Hartford Turnpike and consists in whole or in part of Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 52, Plot 125000.
A copy of the application, plans, and reports may be seen in the Office of the Planning and Economic Development Department at the Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA, and on the Planning Board website at www.shrewsburyma. gov/ongoing-projects.
SHREWSBURY PLANNING BOARD
Julie Holstrom, Clerk
LEGAL NOTICE
The Shrewsbury Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday evening, December 5, 2024 at 7:00 PM, in the Selectboard’s Hearing Room at the Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, to hear the application of Capital Property Investments, LLC for Site Plan Approval by the Planning Board as required by the Town of Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII.F.3 for a change in use that requires more than 20 parking spaces as shown on plans entitled, “Parking Plan, 516 Boston Turnpike, Shrewsbury Massachusetts,” dated November 4, 2024 prepared by Quinn Engineering 579 Pleasant Street, Paxton, MA 01612, consisting of one (1) page. The subject project is located at 516 Boston Turnpike on the southern side of Boston Turnpike and east of Lake Street, within the Commercial Business zoning district and consists in whole or in part of Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate34 , Plot 025000.
A copy of the application, plans, and reports may be seen in the Office of the Planning and Economic Development
Department at the Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA, and on the Planning Board website at www.shrewsburyma. gov/ongoing-projects. SHREWSBURY
MARLBOROUGH
Notice is hereby given that the Marlborough Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on November 21, 2024, at 7:00 PM at Marlborough City Hall, 140 Main St. on the 3rd Floor Memorial Hall. Mall at Solomon Pond LLC proposes at the intersection of Solomon Pond Rd. and Donald J. Lynch Blvd the removal of two existing freestanding signs and the installation of a new sign. The work is near wetlands.
Plans and other information will be available in the Conservation Commission office at City Hall Monday thru Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. All interested persons are invited to the public hearing. Edward
Notice is hereby given that the Marlborough Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on November 21, 2024, at 7:00 PM at Marlborough City Hall, 140 Main St. on the 3rd Floor Memorial Hall. The applicant Stefanie Carr of 233 Lakeshore Dr. proposes to renovate the existing house and install
Scouts in Northborough and Westborough took part in the annual Scouting for Food drive on Saturday, Nov. 9.
COMMUNITY CLASSIFIED
COMMUNITY CLASSIFIEDS
HOPE & HEALING
Please call:
Hope & Healing for Terminal Illness (508) 293-1212 www.TotalLifeEnergy.com
ST. JUDE’S NOVENA
May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, pray for us. St. Jude, worker of miracles, pray for us. St. Jude, the helper of the hopeless, pray for us. Say this nine times a day, by the ninth day your prayer will be answered. It has never been known to fail. Publication must be promised. My prayers are being answered.
Virtusa Corporation
Virtusa Corporation has multiple openings for the following position in Southborough, MA and other unanticipated locations across U.S.:
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For all positions, employee will work in various unanticipated locations in U.S., travel/relocation possible. Please email resumes to: apply@virtusa.com, making specific reference to the Ref # of the position you are applying to.
ENGINEER SR. R&D
Marlborough, MA
May require to travel/telecommute. Product design and development, test of materials, preparation of specifications, process capability studies, research investigations. Contact: Susan Cardinal Boston Scientific Corporation GlobalTalentAcq@bsci.com. Please include reference H4872-00539. (EOE).
eng., developer, or related.
Applicants contact Chris Rouleau, Sr. Recruiter, and reference position - crouleau@bjs.com, 350 Campus Drive, Marlborough, MA 01752 Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.
By Evan Walsh Reporter
SOUTHBOROUGH – Enter into Max’s blue world and walk away with valuable lessons on diversity, love and self-acceptance.
Caysie Harvey, a Southborough resident, recently published her debut children’s book “Max’s Life in Blue.” An educator and university administrator specializing in literacy development, Harvey published the book in an effort to foster a love of reading in the next generation.
Originally from Los Angeles, Harvey moved to Southborough and started a family with her husband Kevin. She named the book’s main character after her 2-year-old son, her source of inspiration.
“I’ve always been a writer. It’s what I loved most about school. It’s what I think I was best at in school. I’ve always kept journals, and I’d make little books in kindergarten. The idea to publish came after I had Max. We would read together every single day. I had a book in me. I was reading all these children’s books. I thought, ‘I can do this.’ I credit Max with the inspiration for that,” she said.
The book — designed for early
readers — follows Max as he navigates a world painted entirely in blue. The plot, filled with vibrant illustrations by Valerie Imparato, is a “charming story … [that] explores the concept of colors, the strength of family bonds, and the importance of individuality.”
Despite living in a world that’s entirely blue, Max learns that it’s OK to be different. It’s a message Harvey hopes resonates with all readers — including her son.
“I always want him to feel loved and confident in who he is. That’s a message I wanted to impart to all young folks,” she said.
The book is one of her proudest accomplishments, Harvey said.
“I was in tears when I first got my author copies. It still feels unbelievable. I thought to myself when I made it the best day would be when Max holds the book. The second best day was sending my mom a copy. She always made me feel like I was an author already. She’s just been a champion for me and my literacy development,” she told the Community Advocate.
Order the book on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/ Maxs-Life-Blue-Caysie-Harvey/ dp/B0DBK1RTYZ?ref_=ast_author_mpb.
Caysie Harvey recently published her first children’s book. (Photo/Evan Walsh)
POLICE FIRE&
POLICE LOG
The information in the police log is obtained directly from the official records maintained at each police station in our circulation area.Those arrested are innocent until proven guilty. The Community Advocate will publish news of acquittals upon notification and a copy of court issued documentation. The below is a representation of this week’s police log. Some calls lacking severity have been omitted due to space constraints.
Westborough
Monday, Oct. 28
4:10 a.m. Elm St. CEMLEC incident support. 9:46 a.m. Arrested, Daniel A. Archambeault, 66, of 33 Warner St., Hudson, for op MV with license suspended for OUI/CDL/MVH, op MV with registration suspended, uninsured motor vehicle, fail to stop/yield.
6:22 p.m. W Main St. Vandalism.
Tuesday, Oct. 29
7:58 a.m. Washington St./Flanders Rd. Accident property damage.
12:29 p.m. W Main St. AC, animal inspection. 12:35 p.m. Arch St. AC, animal inspection. 3:56 p.m. Beach St. Erratic operator.
Friday, Nov. 1
9:38 a.m. Smith Pkwy. Accident property damage.
12:29 p.m. Lyman St./Turnpike Rd. Road/tree. 7:22 p.m. W Main St. Erratic operator.
Saturday, Nov. 2
1:44 p.m. Computer Dr. Threats made. 2:26 p.m. Lyman St. Fire, smoke.
9:43 p.m. Arrested, Yenny Polanco, 47, of 23 Crown St., Apt. 2, Worcester, for A&B on police officer, A&B with dangerous weapon, resist arrest.
Sunday, Nov. 3
12:28 a.m. Otis St. Accident property damage.
10:02 a.m. Beach St. AC, animal unleashed. 1:22 p.m. Lyman St. Accident property damage.
5:25 p.m. W Main St. Accident property damage.
Shrewsbury
Friday, Nov. 1
8:27 a.m. Fyrbeck Ave. Animal complaint.
10:01 a.m. Heywood St. Animal complaint.
11:23 a.m. Keyes House Rd. Dispute.
1:58 p.m. Plainfield Ave. Harassment.
12:30 p.m. Boylston St. Animal complaint.
5:49 p.m. Hillside Dr. Fireworks.
Saturday, Nov. 2
1:59 a.m. Boston Tpke. Road hazard – trees/ wires/debris.
9:03 a.m. Maple Ave. Animal complaint.
9:55 a.m. Maple Ave. Animal complaint.
Sunday, Nov. 3
1:50 p.m. Maple Ave. Preserve the peace.
2:56 p.m. Hartford Tpke. Harassment.
6:47 p.m. Arrested, Cindy A. Champion, 67, of 7 Wesson St. Frnt., North Grafton, for marked lanes violation, OUI liquor, neg operation of MV (operate to endanger).
Monday, Nov. 4
10:07 a.m. Hartford Tpke. B&E commercial.
12:30 p.m. Maple Ave. Trespassing.
1:04 p.m. Arrested, Joel Estevez, 31, of 53 Beaver St., Apt. 3, Worcester, for op MV with license suspended/revoked.
3:04 p.m. South St. Animal complaint.
3:45 p.m. Grafton St. Animal complaint.
4:34 p.m. South Quinsigamond. Identity theft.
4:44 p.m. Gates Ln. Larceny.
Tuesday, Nov. 5
11:22 a.m. Arrested, Jennifer Demaria, 50, of 395 Prospect St., Shrewsbury, for use electronic device while operating MV, op MV with license suspended/revoked, possession Class E substance.
1:46 p.m. Alltown Gas and Convenience/ BPRE. MVA property damage only.
2:20 p.m. Washington St. Larceny.
4:18 p.m. Evelina Dr. Auto theft.
4:48 p.m. The Heights at Marlborough Apartments/Briarwood Ln. Fraud/forgery.
4:50 p.m. South St. Fraud/forgery. Friday, Nov. 1
8:48 a.m. AMVETS Post 1980/Fitchburg St. MVA property damage only.
9:07 a.m. East Main St./Cook Ln. MVA property damage only.
10:24 a.m. Broad St. Trespassing. 11:31 a.m. Chestnut St. MVA property damage only.
11:37 a.m. Hannaford Super Market/BPRW. Trespassing.
11:42 a.m. Central Auto Rebuilders/Central St. MVA property damage only.
4:33 p.m. Design Pak Lofts/Maple St. MVA property damage only.
6:04 p.m. Extended Stay America/Northboro Road East. MVA with injuries.
6:04 p.m. Miranda Bread/BPRE. MVA with injuries.
9:29 p.m. Arrested, Jimmy Abdulio Barrera, 31, of 342 Lincoln St., Apt. 218, Marlborough, for vandalize property, disturbing the peace, A&B, resist arrest.
10:05 p.m. Arrested, Brandon Rex Martin, 29, of 60 Grant St., Milford, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, fail to stop/yield.
Saturday, Nov. 2
6:34 a.m. Embassy Suites Hotel/BPRW. Larceny.
7:19 a.m. Hannaford Super Market/BPRW. Trespassing.
1:43 a.m. Arrested, Daniel Patrick Pelland, 46, of 400 Malden St., Holden, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, marked lanes violation.
2:07 a.m. Arrested , Israel G. Viera, 31, of 450 Boston Post Road East, Apt. A605, Marlborough, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, possess open container of alcohol in MV.
11:25 a.m. Cotting Ave. MVA property damage only.
1:59 p.m. Essex St. Animal complaint.
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2:47 p.m. Price Chopper/East Main St. MVA property damage only.
5:03 p.m. Lincoln/Mechanic Sts. MVA with injuries.
Northborough
Friday, Nov. 1
2:18 a.m. Arrested, Husai Esmail, 37, of 4 Fiske St., Apt. 1, Worcester, for negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08%, marked lanes violation.
9:58 a.m. Arrested , Taylor Joseph Alfeld, 32, of 10 Pickering Ave., Bellingham, for shoplifting by asportation, op MV with license suspended for OUI/CDL/MVH, warrants. 7:17 p.m. Charina Rd. Dog complaint.
11:33 p.m. Arrested, Ronis C. Cardoso, 32, of 15 Washburn St., Worcester, for op MV with license suspended subsequent offense, marked lanes violation.
11:51 a.m. Main St. Keep the peace. 7:20 p.m. Arrested, Angie Carolina Cardona Parra, 29, of 10403 35th Ave., Apt. Fl1, Corona, NY, for unlawful possession of theft detection shielding device, unlawful possession of theft detection device deactivator or remover, receive stolen property +$1200, and Yeison Fernando Rozo Rodriguez, 36, of 10403 35th Ave., Apt. Fl1, Corona, NY, for number plate violation, unlawful possession of theft detection shielding device, receive stolen property +$1200.
Tuesday, Nov. 5
3:50 p.m. South St./Longfellow Rd. Accident: P.D.
10:42 p.m. Charina Rd. Dog complaint. Wednesday, Nov. 6
1:16 p.m. Cedar Hill Rd. Dog complaint. 1:39 p.m. Church/Whitney Sts. Criminal complaint.
6:56 p.m. Patty Ln. Breaking and entering. 8:48 p.m. Colburn St. Vandalism.
Thursday, Nov. 7
12:06 p.m. Juniper Brook Rd. Fraud.
PUZZLE ANSWERS
SHREWSBURY – The fifth annual Yuletide Market and Light the Common will be returning to Shrewsbury on Dec. 7 from 4 to 8 p.m.
Over 31,000 lights will be illuminated on the Common when staff from Control Point Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electric — the principal sponsor — flips the switch at 4:45 p.m.
With the popularity of the event, the footprint of the Yuletide Market will be expanding this year to be able to accommodate new and popular food trucks, more artisanal gifts and vendors, more entertainment and more fun for all ages. In addition to the Common, there will be events at Chiampa Funeral Home, Maple & Main and Skin Dermatology.
In addition to Control Point, sponsors include Shrewsbury Federal Credit Union, Robert “Chief Joseph” Terkanian, Revelation, Art of Procurement, Win Waste Innovations, Remodelwerks, YATCO Energy,
Gaudette Insurance Agency, Avidia Bank and Webster Five.
Admission is free. Parking is available at the First Congregational Church, Shrewsbury Public Library and the former Beal School. For more information, visit https://www. shrewsburytca.com/yuletidemarket-light-the-common.
Winter has Arrived
Residents at New Horizons in Marlborough enjoy worry-free retirement living, never having to be concerned with cleaning snow off their cars, shoveling walkways, or braving the New England winter. Instead, they savor wine and cheese by the fire, splash into “Watercise” in the 86-degree swimming pool, and dine on sumptuous home-cooked meals, and more.
Immediate availability, including three home-cooked meals daily, starting at $2,400/month for one resident.
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT on Matt Mastrogiacomo
What’s your position at Copeland Chevrolet Hudson and how many years of experience do you have?
I am one of the service advisors at the dealership. I have been at the Hudson location for 15 years and 34 years working with General Motors.
What sets Copeland Chevrolet Hudson apart from its competitors? It is a family-owned store that truly cares about its customers. When you walk through our doors, you’re not just a sale or a number — you’re part of our family. Our motto is ‘Count on Copeland’ and we take a lot of pride in that.
Why should I service with Copeland?
Our technicians and service staff have the highest level of General Motors certifications. Our team is extensively trained and equipped with the latest knowledge and technology to ensure your vehicle receives the expert care it deserves.
What do you love about Hudson and the surrounding area?
The sense of community that you feel everywhere you go. People here look out for one another, whether its though local events, supporting small businesses, or lending a hand to a neighbor in need.
COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
By Evan Walsh Reporter
SHREWSBURY – On Nov. 3, 2023, a crowd of elected officials, district staff, supporters of Shrewsbury Public Schools, parents, and students gathered outside 557 Main St. to cut the ribbon and officially open Maple & Main.
One year later, the store is thriving. Maple & Main has drawn thousands of customers, introduced new products, and helped a unique cohort of students develop skills to become successful, independent members of the community.
“The community support has been amazing. Everyone who is walking out of the store is leaving with a smile,” said Jennifer Tabor, who has managed the store for the last year. “Every single time a customer comes in, it’s an opportunity for our students to learn and practice their skills. Telling the community about our program — not just the store, but everything we do here — is most
important.”
What is Maple & Main?
Maple & Main is the centerpiece of the RISE (Reaching Independence through Supported Employment) program, which was created to provide 18- to 22-year-old Shrewsbury students with in-district support.
Prior to the program, the group of students had been educated at the out-of-district Assabet Valley Collaborative. Under the leadership of Superintendent Joe Sawyer and Assistant Superintendent Meg Belsito, Shrewsbury started to chart a new path, drawing inspiration from nearby programs in Westborough and Grafton.
Maple & Main contains dozens of exclusive Shrewsbury products, many designed and created by RISE students. While at the store, students spend time screen-printing, sanding wood for signs, packaging candy, stocking shelves, ar -
ranging items, and completing other tasks meant to ensure a positive shopping experience for customers.
“My favorite part about working at Maple & Main is screenprinting; we screen-print shirts. .. My favorite thing to do at RISE is to count money so I can learn,” said Jazmine Rodon, a RISE student who has been at the store from the start.
Over the course of the year, students have been learning new
skills; about 20 RISE students have gained technical knowhow — sometimes handling sharp or hot tools — while also getting the chance to work on their communication abilities, interacting with (and helping) Shrewsbury community members daily.
Tabor said she’s seen definitive growth in all of the students.
“Coming into the store on a daily basis, students are going directly over and stocking shelves
before being asked, cleaning things that are dirty, and interacting with customers without any prompts,” she said. “We really like to involve our students in all of the designing process. By getting instruments like the Cricut and our new sublimation printer, we’re able to really let the students design, make their designs come to life … They love telling the community about the designs they’ve done.”
More than retail
The RISE program doesn’t end with retail offerings — in fact, that’s where it starts. In a non-public-facing spot just behind Maple & Main, RISE students have a lounge and academic space, complete with board games, a pool table, and a kitchenette area. It’s here that the students work on academics, socialize among themselves, receive support from staff, and learn other non-retail-related life skills.
“The [RISE program] is extremely fun. I was mostly cooped up at home, unable to drive, so being around my friends all the time, it’s really fun,” said RISE student Carl Amazan, who uses the kitchenette to cook for classmates and prepare for his future career. “One of my potential hopes is to become a cook, founding my own restaurant, or finding a restaurant to work at.”
And RISE students get a fair amount of experience outside of 557 Main St., participating in dozens of different community events, volunteering opportunities, and internships. The program has sent students to the Shrewsbury Fire Department, the Shrewsbury Public Library, the Shrewsbury Club, Worcester State University, and many other spots. Some students have secured paying jobs.
According to Belsito, it’s all a credit to the community.
“The Shrewsbury community has been instrumental in the success of both Maple & Main and the RISE program, demonstrating unwavering support through partnerships and genuine engagement. Our students [employees at Maple & Main], families, local residents, businesses, and organizations have contributed through regular patronage and generous donations, helping our students thrive,” she said.
Store Manager Jennifer Tabor (left) and three RISE students.
(Photo/Evan Walsh)
Food show serves up experience for culinary students
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
MARLBOROUGH – On a typical day, culinary arts students at Assabet Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School learn how to whip up anything from appetizers and desserts.
For the second annual Culinary Arts Food Show on Wednesday, Nov. 6, students got to work with 20 chef instructors, as well as meet fellow culinary students from 13 other vocational schools.
“I’m so excited, it seems really cool,” said Elliot Chetwynd, an Assabet senior from Maynard.
She was part of the dessert crew that helped create mounds of whoopie pies and coffee cake for the event.
“Any time working with the kids I love it,” said Jimmy DiMarzio, a chef and member of the Epicurean Club of Boston, a professional chef organization. “Not everyone is meant to be a PhD.”
ECB President Tim Foley
said the club helps high school students with scholarships ($16,000 was awarded last year) along with mentorships.
The Epicurean Room at Assabet, and its adjoining kitchen, provided the stations for 15 food brokers, including A.J. Letizio, Smithfield Culinary, Epicurean Club of Boston, Piantedosi, The Bone Sauce and Mike’s Hot Honey. Two Marlborough restaurants did demonstrations —
THE HUMANITY OF SENIOR LIVING AT
Artisan at Hudson
Ge ing older and ge ing old are two different things. At Artisan, we know the difference. More important, we know the key to accommodating both. Humanity.
The humanity of senior living at Artisan means living your life the way you want to live it, even as you age. And the freedom to decide for yourself how each day unfolds. It’s about pursuing joy in your life. Like new friends with whom you can share a drink at the daily Happy Hour in our pub, a variety of gourmet dining options, outings, classes or hiking the Assabet River Rail Trail. Whatever moves you.
And, perhaps most important, it’s about living in a community that is fully prepared to support you and accommodate your changing healthcare needs. Humanity – It’s all about you, your family, your old friends and new friends and bringing joy to life.
Firefly’s Steve Uliss, owner and executive chef, showed the difference between St. Louis ribs and spare ribs; Dave Kennedy, co-owner of Kennedy’s Market and Restaurant, showed the art of tumbling steak for steak tips.
At one station, Assabet senior Jack O’Toole learned the proper way to cut Wagu beef from chef Chuck Leonardo.
Students had the opportunity to sample a variety of items,
• And more
from tortillas to cannolis. They also received a drawstring bag to collect vendors’ products; and a JavaSOK thermal sleeve.
According to chef Louis Trudeau, an Assabet culinary instructor known as Chef T, the event was an opportunity for culinary arts students to gain experience from seasoned chefs.
A survey by the National Restaurant Association said that 62
percent of operators reported not having enough employees to accommodate customers effectively.
In addition to the ECB, sponsors included Main Street Bank, Marlborough Rotary and BJ’s corporate office.
For information about the Assabet Valley Regional Vocational/Technical School District, go to https://www.assabet.org/
College Coaching: Individually and In Groups Supporting students at every stage of their college bound journey.
College Counseling
Our counselors can meet with students to work on just one component of the application or all of them.
Secondary School Placement
We help students at every stage of the application process.
College Coaching Cohort Program
Looking for a grade-specific college advising program that will connect your students to others in their grade level, offer college knowledge, support and guidance while encouraging some valuable, pre-college prep work?
Jimmy DiMarzio of the Epicurean Club of Boston, right, helps Assabet Valley students prepare cannolis.
Elliot Chetwynd, an Assabet senior from Maynard, shows some of the desserts for the second annual Culinary Arts Food Show. (Photos/Maureen Sullivan)
WESTBOROUGH – CNY Fertility, which has 10 locations nationwide, is about to open its first location in New England.
The new facility will be at 2200 West Park Drive, Suite 120.
According to Dr. Robert Kiltz, the founder and director of CNY, the location was chosen because “it’s close to Boston and Worcester.”
Kiltz added that CNY will offer high-quality fertility treatments, including IVF, egg freezing and other services.
M.D., MBACall (508) 836-8733 Street, Ste. 130 • Westborough, MA
“We offer a more affordable alternative,” he said.
The clinic offers a blend of Eastern and Western medical approaches, including meditation, which “reduces stress and inflammation,” said Kiltz.
The clinic will be open by the end of the month.
“We’re really excited to be part of Massachusetts and New England,” said Kiltz.
For information on CNY Fertility, go to https:// www.cnyfertility.com/
Dr. Jean E. Keamy, M.D., MBACall (508) 836-8733 24 Lyman Street, Ste.
later
SHREWSBURY
CNY Fertility will open
this month at West Park Drive in Westborough.
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
Bishop, Christine of Grafton Brodeur Jr., Paul of Westborough Domina, Lillian of Hudson Galibois, Kathleen formerly of Hudson Hall, Jerome of Westborough Hetzler, Charles of Hudson Jay, Priscilla of Marlborough, formerly of Northborough King, Edward formerly of Shrewsbury Korzon, Ronald of Shrewsbury Lamontagne, Donald of Shrewsbury, longtime resident of Worcester McElman, Barbara of Marlborough Meserve Jr., George formerly of Hudson Palomares, William of Northborough Rice, Mary of Shrewsbury Waterhouse, Bruce of Worcester Williams, Olimpia formerly of Shrewsbury
George Meserve Jr., 87
APPLE VALLEY, CALIF. - George “Don” Meserve, Jr. took his final flight on August 15, 2024, just days shy of his 88th birthday. Born on August 26, 1936, in Marlboro, MA, Don’s adventurous spirit soared from an early age, sparked by a thunderous formation of World War II fighters that zoomed over his family’s farm in Hudson, MA.
He was preceded in death by his parents, George D. Meserve, Sr. and Doris Foster Meserve, and his sister, Janet (Ted) Tidwell. Don leaves behind a legacy of love and adventure through his children: Daniela (Tony) Patag, Douglas (Lena) Meserve, Daphne (Dan) Bartz, Donald (Natalie) Meserve, and Derek (Monica) Meserve. He was a proud grandfather to 15 grandchildren and three greatgrandchildren.
Don will be remembered
not just as a seasoned pilot and dedicated serviceman, but as a loving father, grandfather, and friend. He lived a life full of passion, adventure, and love, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know him.
Ronald Korzon, 70
SHREWSBURY - Ronald “Ron” Korzon of Shrewsbury, Ma, age 70, passed away at home on October 31, 2024, after a period of declining health, with his loving wife and cherished son by his side.
Ron was born in Greenfield, Ma to Walter and Anne (Majewski) Korzon on April 13, 1954. He attended schools in Greenfield where he acquired his love for learning.
Ron is survived by his wife Rita of forty-seven years, his son Alex, his daughter Annemarie (Jeremy) Leach and four wonderful grandchildren.
Kostanski Funeral Home is directing the funeral arrangements.
Bruce A. Waterhouse, 75
WORCESTER - Bruce Allen Waterhouse, 75, of Worcester, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 1st, at The Christopher House of Worcester. He is survived by his son, Justin Karoway-Waterhouse and his wife, Robin of Worcester; his daughter, Natalia KarowayWaterhouse, and her husband, Adam Mills of Warwick, RI; his son, Ian Karoway-Waterhouse of Shrewsbury; his former wife, Juliana Karoway; his sisters, Linda and Cindy; a close cousin, Jean, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Born in Nashua, NH, to Roger Waterhouse and Arline Gamache, Bruce worked as a technician for Intel Corporation for many years before retiring due to illness.
There will be a private memorial service to honor his life.
Barbara L. McElman, 87
MARLBOROUGH - Barbara Louise (Greaves) McElman 87 of Marlborough died on Wednesday, October 30, 2024 in Beaumont Nursing Home surrounded by her loving family.
Barbara was born in Medford, MA, the daughter of the late Arthur G. and Pauline H. (Durham) Greaves. She graduated from Waltham High School, Class of ’55.
Barbara is survived by her husband of 67 years, Donald C. McElman, whom she married in September, 1957, her 2 sons Douglas G. McElman and his wife Nancy of Marlborough, Dave C. McElman of Framingham, 2 grandchildren, Justin and his wife Emily, Kaylee, 5 great grandchildren, Bella, Paisley, Jack, Kennedy and Ace and a sister Claire Casperson of Danvers.
She was predeceased by her son Stephen McElman in 1990 and a sister Ruth Eaton and her husband Edward as well as her brother-in-law Maurice Casperson.
The Short & Rowe Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.
Priscilla M. Fratoni Jay, 83
MARLBOROUGH/NORTHBOROUGH - Priscilla M. (Coan) Fratoni Jay, 83, beloved mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Friday, November 1, 2024.
Born and raised in Natick, Priscilla was the daughter of the late Patrick J. and Loretta (Smith) Coan.
Surviving Priscilla are her three sons, Michael Fratoni and his wife Diane of Worcester, Mark R. Fratoni and his wife Lesli of Boylston, and Gary S. Fratoni and his wife Missy of Westborough; 8 grandchildren, Samantha, Joseph, Nichole, Ashlynn, Amory, Cortney, William, Lexi and a greatgrandson, Colton — all whom
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she loved dearly. Priscilla also leaves one brother, Patrick J. Coan III of Beverly, MA; two sisters, Frances O’Connell of Los Angeles, CA and Kathleen Uek of Natick; several nephews and a niece. She was preceded in death by her husband, John B. Jay. Hays Funeral Home of Northborough assisted with arrangements.
Mary L. Rice, 93
SHREWSBURY - Mary Louise Moore was born on May 24, 1931, in Worcester, one of six children to the late John and Mary Catherine (Lynch) Moore. Mary died Friday, November 1, 2024, with her daughters by her side. She was 93. The family offers words of thanks to the wonderful and caring staff of Holy Trinity for all their support these last three years.
In addition to her husband, Peter, she was predeceased by her siblings, Robert, John and Russell Moore, Shirley Moore, and Beverly Mason.
She leaves her daughters, Mary M. ‘Peggy’ Hilton (Raymond) of Kennewick, Washington, and Ann L. DeBiasio of Shrewsbury; her granddaughters, Christine Coble of Denver, Colorado, Tracy Hilton (Rick Miller) of Spirit Lake, Idaho, and Laura DeBiasio of New York, New York, Massachusetts; nieces and nephews.
Arrangements by James + John Heald of The Joyce Funeral Home of Waltham.
Charles E. Hetzler, 76
HUDSON - Charles Edward Hetzler, 76, died Thursday, October 31, 2024. Born March 24, 1948, Charles Edward Hetzler, Jr. was the son of the late Charles E. Hetzler and Mary Gilchrist Hetzler, and was raised in Patterson Heights, Beaver Falls, PA.
Ed participated in the Hudson Arts Council, taught fiddle and guitar lessons, and created and performed with the small
Early American music group called “Cnoic Glasa”, Gaelic for “over the green hills”. Ed was a life-long lover of dogs, feeling they truly are man’s best friend. One of the highlights of his past twenty years has been his participation in a small book club with some of his dearest friends, from Temple Beth El, Sudbury.
Ed will be buried with his wife Carole, in Forestvale Cemetery, Hudson, MA.
The Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted with arrangements.
Karla R. Passler, 56
HOPKINTON - Karla R. Passler, 56, of Hopkinton, formerly of Westborough, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 1, 2024, at home. Born in Worcester, she is the daughter of Richard D. and Frances A. (Pinkus) Passler of Westborough.
In addition to her parents, she is survived by one brother, Gregory S. Passler and his wife Heidi LaFleche, of Watertown, one sister, Christine E. Passler and her husband George J. Hensel, III of Grafton, two nieces, Addison L. Hensel and Shelby Q. Hensel and many aunts, uncles and cousins.
She was predeceased by two brothers, SGT 1st Class Eric B. Passler and Matthew E. Passler. The Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
Jerome J. Hall, 84
WESTBOROUGH - Jerome J. Hall, 84, of Westborough, formerly of Natick, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 31, 2024, after a lengthy illness. Born in Natick on May 10, 1940, Jerome was the son of the late Francis and Catherine (Rice) Hall.
Jerry is predeceased by his sister Janet George and his brothers, John Hall, Joel Hall and William Hall. He was the loving father of Pamela Bannon and her husband Mark
COMMUNITY OBITUARIES
of Hopkinton, MA, Rhonda Fraser and her husband Garth, of Grafton, MA and Glen Hall and his partner, Tara Burke of Jacksonville Beach, FL. Jerry was the loving grandfather to four grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren Olivia (Fraser) Flynn and husband Shawn Flynn, Hunter Fraser, Ryan Bannon, Cory Bannon, and great-grandsons Morgan and Wiley Flynn.
Jerry was beloved and survived by brother Arthur Hall and wife Lynn, of Holliston, Gerard Hall, of Framingham, Kevin Hall, of North Carolina and Peter Hall and wife Jill, of Natick and Sheila Tosches and her husband Steve of Bellingham. He was especially fond of his niece Elizabeth Hughes and her children as well as many other nieces and nephews.
The John Everett & Sons Funeral Home of Natick assisted with arrangements.
Christine J. Bishop, 64
GRAFTON - Christine J. (Masnicki) Bishop, 64, passed away November 3, 2024 at home surrounded by family following a courageous 7 year battle against multiple myeloma.
She leaves her children Jason Bishop, Stephanie Agerton and her husband Orry and their children Kayden and McKinley, Brian Bishop and his fiancé Jennifer Weiss and her brothers John and Stephen Masnicki, and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Robert Bishop.
Christine was born in Brooklyn, NY, daughter of the late Janina (Jamroz) and Walter Masnicki.
Roney Funeral Home of North Grafton assisted with arrangements.
William A. Palomares, 27
Milford MA died Saturday (November 2, 20024) at the Milford Regional Medical Center after being involved in a motorcycle accident in Bellingham MA.
Alex is survived by his beloved parents, William & Marie Palomares of Milford MA; his brother: Joshua William Palomares and his fiancée Skylar Chase of Northborough MA; his paternal grandparents: Luis Hernandez & Hilda (Gueverra) Hernandez of EL Salvador; also several aunts, uncles & cousins.
The Edwards Memorial Funeral Home of Milford assisted with arrangements.
Paul R. Brodeur Jr., 67
WESTBOROUGH - Paul R. “Pudgy” Brodeur, Jr., 67, of Westborough, MA. passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, October 30, 2024. Born in Worcester, MA. he was the son of the late Paul and Marie Brodeur. He is preceded in death by his wife Nancy (Mahoney) Brodeur.
He leaves behind his sisters, Ann Leger of Spencer, MA., Deborah Brodeur Hutchins and her husband Douglas of Millbury, MA., Paula Yockel and her husband Paul of Leicester, MA, and Brenda Rivard of Gardner, MA.
He also leaves his Stepchildren, Maura Kruck, David Harrington and Brenden Harrington.
Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
Olimpia M. Williams, 92
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Olimpia is survived by three children, Donna Pierangeli and her husband Joseph, Mark Phillips and his wife Lisa, and Christine Phillips; Her daughter in law, Gail Phillips; six grandchildren; a great grandson; a sister, Rita and her husband Joseph Nardella of Cape Cod; nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. She is pre-deceased by her son Matthew Phillips in 2016, three brothers, Victor Salerno, Anthony Salerno, and Guido Salerno and four sisters, Ann Verdini, Mary Chionna, Rose Bushe, and Virginia Marshall.
The Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel of Worcester assisted with arrangements.
Kathleen A. Galibois, 77
DUXBURY - Kathleen Ann (Kathy) Galibois, 77, of Duxbury, MA, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2024. Kathy was born on January 14, 1947 to Rita and Frederick Sugden of Hudson, MA.
Kathy is survived by Bob Galibois of Duxbury, MA, her husband of 56 years and the love of her life, her son Rob Galibois of Barnstable, MA, his wife Nikki, and their sons Maxwell and Cameron, and her son Michael Galibois of Chicago, IL, his wife Amy, and their daughters Bridget and Leah. Kathy is preceded in death by her mother and father, Rita and Fred Sugden, and her sister, Deborah McCarthy.
Visitation will be held at Holy Family Church, 601 Tremont Street, Duxbury on November 26th at 9:30 AM followed by a funeral Mass at 11:00 AM.
All are welcome to a reception at the American Legion, 5 West Street, Duxbury following the funeral Mass.
Lillian L. Domina, 85
HUDSON - Lillian Domina, 85, died Wednesday, November 6, 2024. Born Sept. 5th, 1939, Lilly was the daughter of the late George Lattime and Clarice Lattime, and was raised in Dorchester, Mass.
She had a career as an Admin. Assistance at Grey Lock and Palmer Corp. In 1966 she married her husband Len, whom they shared a life together with their daughter Julie for many years. After Lilly and Len divorced, she moved to Hudson, Mass to be closer to her daughter’s family. She leaves her daughter Julie Babich and granddaughters Ruth Babich and Abigal Babich all of Hudson Ma.
The Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted with
Donald G. Lamontagne, 94
WORCESTER – Donald G. Lamontagne, 94, of Shrewsbury and a longtime resident of Worcester, passed away peacefully at his home with his nieces by his side on Tuesday, October 22, 2024.
Donald was married to the late Elizabeth A. (Goodrich) Lamontagne and is survived by a son, David Lamontagne and his wife, Talena of Orlando, FL; a daughter,
Bettyanne Lamontagne of Mobile, AL; 3 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren; 8 great
great grandchildren and many nephews and nieces including Donna Ruel and Nadine Campo who were his primary caretakers throughout his battle with both cancer and Alzheimer’s Disease.
Don was born in Agawam, MA son of the late George and Viola (Paro) Lamontagne and is also predeceased by a brother, Arthur Lamontagne and a sister, Alice Cole.
The Alfred Roy & Sons Funeral Home of Worcester assisted with arrangements.
Edward F. King, 86
HOLDEN - Edward Francis King, 86, passed away on Monday, November 4, 2024, at St. Vincent Hospital after a period of failing health.
Edward is predeceased by his parents, Edward and Anna King, an infant daughter Mary Ellen, and his son, Edward H. King. Edward is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Patricia King of Holden; his children, Thomas King and his wife Danielle of Venice, FL, and Timothy King and his wife Kara of Holden, daughter-n-law Chris King; his siblings, Paul King of Worcester, Judith Grady of Worcester, and Ann Wright of Holden; his grandchildren, Jonathan, Joshua, Bryanna, Gabrielle, Brandon, Julia, and Daniel; and his great-grandson, Weston.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Church,114 Princeton Street, Jefferson, MA.
The Miles Funeral Home of Holden is assisting with arrangements.
NORTHBOROUGH - Mr. William Alexander “Alex” Palomares, 27, of Northborough MA, and formerly of
WORCESTER - Olimpia M. Williams, 92, of Worcester, formerly of Shrewsbury, passed away peacefully with the family she loved gathered at her bedside, Friday, November 1, 2024. Born in Worcester, she was the daughter of Naples Italy immigrants Joseph and Teresa (Martello) Salerno.
Bid awarded for police station siding project
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor
NORTHBOROUGH
During its Oct. 28 meeting, the Select Board awarded the bid for the project to Northeast Construction Inc. The project will involve the selective demolition of the siding in which portions of the deteriorated cedar clapboard will be removed and similarly replaced.
Bids were opened on Oct. 16. Five bids were received, ranging from Cornerstone Construction and Remodeling, which bid $245,000, to Northeast Construction Inc., at $109,450.
Department of Public Works Scott Charpentier said the town reached out to Northeast’s municipal references.
“Every municipality that we spoke to said, ‘If you had
the ability to hire for another project, would you?’ They all said, yes, they would,” he said. During Town Meeting in the spring, voters considered an article to appropriate $540,000 to replace the siding and trim, including $70,000 that was re-appropriated from a previous article. When the project was presented to Town Meeting, residents ap -
proved an amendment that reduced the appropriation.
In the weeks and months after Town Meeting, Select Board members discussed the pros and cons of opting to use vinyl siding for the station versus the selective demolition.
On Sept. 9, Charpentier went before the Select Board and said that no bids were re -
ceived for the project. He said staff reached out to contractors — one said they did not have time to bid on the project, a second said they were not certified with the Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance and a third said they weren’t sure whether the town wanted to use cedar or vinyl siding.
Charpentier echoed the concerns of the contracted architect that the bid package was likely to eliminate some of the perspective bidders.
“A vinyl siding company is not going to bid on this because they do not do clapboard replacement. A carpentry company is likely not going to bid on it because they’re not going to be competitive on vinyl siding,” he said.
That left them with general contractors, and the profit may not be there for a smaller project like this, he said.
At that time, the board decided to bid out the cedar siding first, previously arguing that wood was a stronger
and thicker structure and vinyl stains, collects mildew and mold and requires power washing.
This resulted in the bid from Northeast. Charpentier hoped that the crews would want to get the carpentry work completed this season and either coat, paint or seal it in the spring.
During the Oct. 28 meeting, Select Board members asked questions about the process if additional materials are needed and about damage to the front entrance.
Select Board member Mike Tietjen argued that fully replacing the siding of the building in vinyl is a better option “because that police station has to last decades longer.”
“We can’t afford to build a new police station with the other capital projects that are coming up,” he said.
Tietjen noted that on top of replacing the cedar siding, the building will need to be replaced to repaint the building.
After lengthy discussion, a project to replace the siding of the Northborough Police Station is moving forward. (Photo/Laura Hayes)
Hudson football opens playoffs strong with win over East Bridgewater
By Evan Walsh Reporter
HUDSON – This year’s Hudson Hawks have set school records, put up eye-popping numbers, and found success at every juncture.
The Hawks — 8-0 entering the playoffs — defeated teams by a combined 372-88 score en route to earning the No. 1 seed in the MIAA Division 6 tournament bracket. Undefeated in Mid-Wach-C play, Hudson has set the school record for points scored in a game (63) and featured stellar individual performances from the likes of quarterback Jake Attaway, who hit the 100-touchdown mark in the season’s first game and notched eight total touchdowns in an October win over Maynard.
The team has it all — flashy stats, superlatives, high-seeding, and 20 seniors. But none of the success or record-setting would be possible without re-
maining humble and working hard, players said.
“Every week we look forward to the next week. After a win, we enjoy it that night, but the next morning, we know what our actual goal is. We all know that [Gillette Stadium] is the goal, but this week, our
goal was to win [to get to] the Round of 8. Next week is our last game at Morgan Bowl, so we have to work hard. The work that we put in every single week is crazy. Everyone on this team has energy, and we all come to practice and we mess stuff up,” said senior
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Garrett Giorgio.
The Hawks’ laser-like focus was on full display on Nov. 7. The squad zeroed in on East Bridgewater and soundly defeated the team in the opening round of the playoffs, advancing to the quarterfinals with a 45-15 win.
“I just saw a team that came out with high energy, great intensity. We were physical on both sides of the ball. We put up points early — and that was the goal. We wanted to get ahead early and make them try to play from behind,” Hudson Head Coach Zac Attaway said.
The Vikings did indeed have to play from behind. A pass from Jake Attaway to Nolan Yates — followed almost immediately by an Attaway quarterback sneak — gave Hudson an early lead. Attaway’s 23yard touchdown scramble, 39yard touchdown pass to Yates, and 12-yard rushing touchdown made the score 28-0 by the end of the first quarter.
Giorgio got involved with 10 minutes remaining in the second quarter, scoring a fiveyard touchdown. A 44-yard run by Treson Meuse followed. Hudson led 45-0 at halftime, and the second half was played with a running clock.
Though a potential Super Bowl appearance looms, players — understanding they’ll get every opponent’s best effort — are remaining focused on the task at hand.
“You kind of have a target on your back. I think that motivates them during practice every week. The goal is to go 1-0 each week, so they’re taking it step-by-step. They’re not looking ahead, they’re not looking behind – they’re just working on getting better every week, and I think we’ve been doing that,” said Zac Attaway.
While the Hawks are a humble bunch, one milestone simply couldn’t go unnoticed. Just before halftime, Jake Attaway completed a 45-yard pass to
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Leaders of the Hudson team lock arms before the coin toss.
(Photo/Evan Walsh)
Giorgio that put the quarterback over the 10,000-careeryard mark. The amount of Massachusetts quarterbacks to reach that number is in the single digits, per the MetroWest Daily News.
How did Jake Attaway feel about the milestone? He, like other Hawks, chalked success up to old-fashioned hard work.
“It’s amazing. I didn’t know I was close to that yet, but it’s nice to know that all the hard work my teammates and I have put in is showing. I wouldn’t have been able to do it without them — my receivers, my O-
line. All those yards wouldn’t have happened without them,” he said. “We’ve been in the weight room … We’ve been on the field. It’s shown this season… And obviously, we take every rep at 110 percent.”
Zac Attaway, who is Jake’s father, was happy about the milestone. But any celebration will be short-lived, he said. There’s more football to play.
“It’s a pretty cool accomplishment. I’m happy for him. Proud of him. He’ll enjoy it for 24 hours, and then we’ll be thinking of [the next game],” said Zac Attaway.
Algonquin field hockey falls in quarterfinals
By Evan Walsh Reporter
NORTHBOROUGH – A season to remember has come to an end.
On Nov. 9, third-seeded Algonquin field hockey fell 2-1 to No. 11 Winchester in the MIAA Division 1 quarterfinals. Although the Titans had more corners than their opponent — by a 14-3 margin — the ball didn’t roll the team’s way, and
two Winchester goals within the game’s first 18 minutes were enough to end Algonquin’s season.
Algonquin’s lone goal was scored by Lindsey Brown.
“I just thank them for the effort they put in all season. The positivity, fighting through the last five minutes, and not giving up. We had free hits inside the 25-yard-line, penalty corners. They didn’t give up,”
said Algonquin Head Coach Dan Welty.
This marked the second consecutive tournament in which Algonquin qualified for the quarterfinals. The Titans finished this season at 16-3-2. Winchester — which upset No. 6 Central Catholic in the tournament’s Round of 16 — will face No. 2 Walpole in the semifinals after the Community Advocate goes to print.
Algonquin’s Lindsey Brown tries to sneak the ball past the Winchester defender.
(Photo/Evan Walsh)
Hudson’s Mason Auger (left) and Logan Dome tackle an opponent. (Photo/Evan Walsh)
