Hudson
beats Sandwich to punch ticket to Final Four
hudson | 27
Plans for former Wildwood submitted
marlborough | 15
Marlborough Hudson
Marlborough braces for possible AMSA enrollment increase
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
MARLBOROUGH – A charter school wishing to admit more students is drawing concern from several public school systems, including Marlborough.
During its meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 8, the School Committee discussed a charter amendment request being made by the Advanced Math and Science Academy (AMSA) to the Department of Secondary and Elementary Education (DESE).
AMSA wants to increase its enrollment to 1,000 students; for Marlborough, which already has 505 enrolled in the charter school, it could mean adding another 20 students.
“It’s something to keep an eye on,” said Superintendent Mary Murphy.
Committee members said they will send comments around AMSA’s request to DESE.
According to a notice from DESE sent to Marlborough Public Schools, the request may come before the board no sooner than Jan. 28, 2025, and no later than Feb. 24.
History
AMSA opened in 2004.
The state’s Office of Charter Schools and School Redesign supports and oversees the creation and sustainability of a variety of highquality, public-school options.
Authorized by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ Education Reform Act of 1993, charter schools are independent public schools that operate under five-year charters granted by the commonwealth’s Board of Elementary and
By Sarah Freedman Contributing Writer
HUDSON – A local dog from Hudson placed second in the Ultimate Air Dog Nationals in Lebanon, Tennessee, a competition in which dogs compete in dock diving and must qualify by being in the top three of a regional qualifier.
Kenai won his regional event, which automatically got him an invite to the Nationals.
On Sept. 26, Kenai posted a personal best of 26 feet and 4 inches and was able to get into a higher division. The dog jumped 27 feet and 5 inches and was judged to be second after a tiebreaker decision three days later, according to Chad Neidigh, Kenai’s co-owner.
When Magaly Sandoval and Neidigh attended a dog show near the Cape about three years
TM moves to simplify accessory dwelling process
By Sarah Freedman Contributing Writer
HUDSON – An article involving accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and zoning update to reflect the state’s Affordable Homes Act was approved by Town Meeting on Nov. 18.
Voters approved Article 9 regarding ADUs, but not before two amendments were proposed.
The update was intended to have Hudson comply with the statute, requiring municipalities to allow ADUs by right in a single-family zoning district. It also prohibits a municipality from requiring a discretionary zoning approval, or a special permit, for an ADU.
“What ‘by right’ means is that you don’t need to go and get a discretionary permit. You just need a building permit,” Planning
Meet Kenai — a Nova Scotia Duck tolling retriever who placed second in the Ultimate Air Dog Nationals. (Photo/Courtesy)
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Modernizing Recycling Infrastructure: A Win for Shrewsbury and the Bay State
By
Sen. Michael O. Moore, Christopher Crowley
The “Most Dunkin Donut Shops Per State” is not the only top 10 list Massachusetts lands on.
In fact, the Bay State is a recycling leader, ranking among
the top states in the country — something we’re proud of this America Recycles Day. This status was earned through deliberate actions by the state and local governments across the Commonwealth, including right here in the Town of Shrewsbury.
Recycling is most effective when it’s convenient for consumers. That’s why Shrewsbury is moving from
dual-stream to single-stream processing, which simplifies collections by allowing households to put all materials in the same bin. Key to this modernization effort is upgrades to recycling carts for 12,000 Shrewsbury households.
As simple as they may seem, carts are essential for efficient and effective recycling. Nearly every top-performing recycling program in the U.S. uses carts,
according to The Recycling Partnership. Carts not only provide residents with more room to store recyclables, they help prevent materials from blowing away as litter and increase the safety and efficiency of collection.
Shrewsbury cart upgrades were funded by a $185,600 grant from the beverage industry’s Every Bottle Back initiative with The Recycling Partnership.
Westborough Winter Lights Celebration!
Sunday, December 1
5-6:30pm
Downtown rotary and W. Main Street Come
The new, larger 95-gallon carts triple the amount of recyclable materials that can be collected and, ultimately, remade into new products. This is one example of how America’s beverage companies, like Worcesterbased Polar Beverages, are joining with local officials around the country to create circular economies for recyclable materials.
This year marks the 5th anniversary of the landmark initiative. Through Every Bottle Back, the beverage industry has invested nearly $1 million to upgrade recycling infrastructure in Massachusetts cities and towns. Investments in Danvers, Falmouth, Methuen and now Shrewsbury will collect an estimated 28 million pounds of new recyclables over the next 10 years, including more than two million pounds of the polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic used in bottles and 843,440 pounds of aluminum used for cans.
We know that recycling can be improved in the Commonwealth and across the country by investing in modernization of recycling infrastructure, access and education on recycling best practices. Shrewsbury is a model for other communities on how this can be achieved on America Recycles Day and every day forward.
Sen. Michael O. Moore represents communities in the Second Worcester District including the towns of Auburn, Grafton, Millbury, Shrewsbury, Westborough, and the southeast portion of the city of Worcester in the Massachusetts Senate. Christopher Crowley is Executive Vice President of Polar Beverages in Worcester and President of the Massachusetts Beverage Association.
The cognitive dissonance and hypocrisy of many upper middle-class people in metro west, who are supposedly “educated” and support “sustainability”, is especially evident in two stories in the recent community advocate.
A company trying to do something useful for the environment and the local economy (Feedback earth) gets harassed by the attorney general because a bunch of entitled snobs can’t stand a minor discomfort of a smell. Yet, a far more environmentally
Arturo’s Ristorante Heller Search
Mary’s Crdit
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
MARLBOROUGH – This drone photo shows the ongoing construction of Vesa at the former McGee Farm on Boston Post Road. The housing project will include 140 upscale apartments, a lobby and resident lounge, a fitness center, an outdoor pool deck, a dog park and other resident amenities. (Photo/Tami White)
The Community Advocate’s Policy on Letters to the Editor Letters must be signed with a name, address and telephone number for verification (only name and town will be printed). Letters should be sent to news@communityadvocate.com or mailed to Managing Editor c/o Community Advocate, 32 South St. Westborough MA 01581. The editor reserves the right to reject letters on the basis of length, libelous content, suitability and space constraints. Multiple letters from the same person will not be accepted within a 30 day period. “Form letter” submissions, in which the content of one letter is essentially duplicated, will not be accepted. Letters should be 350 words or less. Deadline is 12 p.m. Friday the week before publication. Opinions expressed in the letters to the editor do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Community Advocate management or its advertisers.
&
Scan QR code to visit us on your mobile device.
PUBLISHER/EDITOR: David Bagdon
ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: 508.930.9022
MANAGING EDITOR: Laura Hayes
ASSISTANT EDITOR: Maureen Sullivan
PROJECT EDITOR: Brett Peruzzi
REPORTER: Evan Walsh
ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT:
Diane Sabatini | 508.366.5500
Cynthia Merchant | 508.736.4332
Mary Ellen Cyganiewicz | 508.366.5500 ext. 17
Barbara Clifford | 508.769.6259
Melissa Tatten-Perry | 413.658.7372
LEGAL & CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING:
Cynthia Merchant | 508.736.4332
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS: Ellen Bishop
Lynne Fountain
OFFICE MANAGER: Tracy Nickerson
BILLING INQUIRIES: Bookkeeping Dept. | ext. 19
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.
Letters | from page 2
toxic chemical lab (St. Gobain) gets approved for the tax revenue and jobs it creates, as do many other environmentally damaging operations.
The smell of organic materials decomposing is a new stimulus, not a health hazard, and is something that noses can be adapted to over time. If we can look beyond myopic selfish worldviews and subjective malleable sense perception, its clear that the long term health and environmental impact of what Feedback earth is trying to do is a net positive.
We must creatively using waste products to build the local economy, as opposed to the throwaway methods prevalent in our current economic paradigm, the consequences of which are self-evident. Yet a insidious, seemingly ubiquitous belief in money over truth and the concordant worldview that can’t deal with a minor discomfort in the short term in order to prevent grave future consequences, is precisely why the world is in the disastrous predicament it in.
People say they want a more sustainable earth, yet when people and organizations try to actually come up with solutions and put them into action, people complain because of an ignorant entitled NIMBY attitude where image prevails over reality.
Their education and supposed support for sustainable methods, as with all things in the middle-class world view as a whole, is a farce and a veneer. These nominal “virtue signalers” will watch the world burn while pretending to care about the earth.
His Illustrious and Holy Majesty according to the order of Melchizedek, Michael A Leonard and Associates Northborough
Helles
Originating from Munich in the late 19th century, Helles beer is a classic German lager known for its crisp, smooth, and slightly malty character. Developed by Bavarian brewers as a milder alternative to the hoppier Pilsner, Helles means “pale” or “light” in German. It showcases a subtle balance between light malt sweetness and restrained bitterness. Brewed with a focus on highquality malt, this beer has a golden color and a clean, refreshing taste with delicate flavors of bread. With an alcohol content typically around 4.5-5.5%, Helles is easy to drink, making it a popular choice for social gatherings and beer gardens. Known for its simplicity and elegance, Helles remains a celebrated style in both Germany and the international beer scene.
MATERIALS: news@communityadvocate.com
EMAIL FOR CLASSIFIED ADS: classified@communityadvocate.com
EMAIL FOR CALENDAR ITEMS: calendar@communityadvocate.com
The beer department at JULIO’S LIQUORS contains one of the largest selections of microbrews, domestics, imports, Belgians and Trappist beers, totaling over 1,000 beers in stock! A few years ago, Ratebeer.com the leading authority in the beer industry, named us top beer “Bottle Shop” in the United States. We have many other unique items that set us apart from the average liquor store. Please call 508-366-1942 for more information, or visit us at 140 Turnpike Rd., Rt. 9 East P.S. Helles beer’s approachable profile pairs well with many foods, from sausages and pretzels to roasted chicken and mild cheeses.
Or catch rebroadcasts on WCRN AM830 every weekday at 7 pm after Howie Carr! You can also pick and choose episodes on Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. itstheliquortalking.com
Ryan Maloney, owner
Dock diving | from page 1 Duck tolling retriever, or toller for short.
ago, they discovered the sport of dock diving. They thought the sport looked amazing, and when they considered getting a companion for their 3-year-old Finnish lapphund, Maki, they wanted to get a breed that liked the water.
“We thought it was really, really fun,” Sandoval said.
Enter Kenai, a Nova Scotia
He is now 1 year old, and they have had him since he was 8 weeks old. Tollers are “the smallest of the retrievers,” Sandoval said, as golden retrievers can be 60 pounds, while a toller can be around 40.
“He comes from a working line of hunting dogs. Even though they share looks with
goldens, they are much more aloof and exponentially more active,” she said.
Dock diving is a simple sport, Sandoval said. A dog’s favorite toy is thrown into a pool while they wait at a 40-foot-long dock. Once the toy is released, the dog runs on the dock and launches in the air to catch the toy.
She noted that dock diving
resembles duck hunting.
“This sport channels the same instincts of dogs to retrieve and swim,” Sandoval said.
Kenai now competes in distance jumping and jumps on average 24 feet, 2 inches, which puts him in the Ultimate Division. She believed that Kenai has a “natural drive” as a toller and combined with an inclination to water and being light-
WINE
Jack’s Abby House Lager • 15 pack $15.99
Gravity Conehead IPA • 12 pack $15.99
weight and strong this helps his dock-diving performance.
She said Kenai is competing closely with dogs from the whippet breed; something she said is unusual for the toller breed.
Neidigh said, “The muscle to weight ratio is a big determiner of how well you’re going to perform.”
When Kenai was 4 months old, they enrolled him in swimming classes at Canine New England, which is based in Walpole.
Neidigh said, “Every week he would progress exponentially.”
The class was at a dock diving facility, he said, and slowly they had Kenai jump off a paddle board, a dock onto a paddle board and finally off the dock and into the water. They were encouraged to look into dock diving as Kenai was a natural and had fun doing it.
Sandoval said, “As soon as he started learning to swim, his teacher said this dog was a natural for dock diving. Since then, he’s been jumping one to two times a month, and he does a lot of fitness work at home, goes swimming in Bolton often and goes to chiropractic therapy at Integrative Animal Health in Bolton.”
& Reposado • 1.75L $34.99
Bailey’s Original only • 1.75L after $10MIR $32.99
Coole Swan • 750ml $29.99
Island Coquito 750ml NEW! $29.99
Aperol • 750ml $21.99 Jack & Coke 4pk all varieties $9.99 Alcachino 4pk all varieties $9.99
Johnnie
Scenic
Goldschmidt Katherine Cabernet Sauvignon • 750ml $19.98
Darioush Caravan
Cabernet Sauvignon • 750ml $44.98
Penfolds Bin 704
Cabernet Sauvignon • 750ml $54.98
Goldschmidt Fidelity Red Blend • 750ml $14.98
Monsanto Chianti Classico Riserva • 750ml $22.98
G. D. Vajra Albe Barolo • 750ml $32.99
Umberto Cesari Moma Rubicone Rosso • 750ml $13.98
J Vineyards Russian River Valley Chardonnay • 750ml $24.98
Sonoma Cutrer Sonoma Coast Chardonnay • 750ml $19.98
Trefethen Napa Valley Chardonnay • 750ml $22.98
Domaine des Petits Champs
Lins Meursault • 750ml $54.98
Trimbach Alsace Réserve Pinot Gris • 750ml $19.98
Pine Ridge Chenin Blanc/Viognier • 750ml $10.98
Saget La Petite Perrière Sauvignon Blanc • 750ml $9.98 A to Z Oregon Riesling • 750ml $13.98
Bartenura Moscato
GOURMET
As dogs who dock dive can get injured from using so many of their muscles, Kenai’s health and safety are “our biggest priorities” next to having fun, she said.
Basic obedience training like getting Kenai to stay when off a leash is also important, she noted. Kenai has to wait for the toy to be released for dock diving and come back when called.
She said, “It was just putting it all together in a new environment.”
Neidigh said they are “absolutely floored” by how well Kenai has done in the many competitions the dog has entered in the Ultimate Air Dogs, Dock Dogs and North America Diving Dogs leagues.
Sandoval said they were training in isolation so they had no idea how well Kenai was doing until Kenai consistently broke the 20-foot mark for jumps at such a young age.
The idea is to always have fun first, she said, but “it adds to the fun to step away with a gold medal.”
Sandoval said, “No matter what his results, we always get to go home with the best dog in the world.”
TM moves to simplify accessory dwelling process
ADUs | from page 1
and Community Development Director Kristina Johnson said.
At a Sept. 23 Select Board meeting, she said that an ADU is not a rental unit and it is usually used to accommodate a family member. She clarified at Town Meeting that an ADU can be located within a primary residence, such as in a basement, or be a newly constructed addition or detached, like a cottage.
An ADU’s maximum size cannot be larger than 900 square feet, as it is defined by state statute.
A law for ADUs has “been on the books since 2007” in Hudson, but now the process would only require a building permit with the Building Department.
“All of the regulations relative to the Board of Health, any type of code issue, fire code, building code [and] ADA still apply,” said Johnson.
The article as passed prohibited the use of ADUs as short-term rentals. However, resident Brian White proposed an amendment, which was later defeated, to delete a section that contained that language prohibiting short-term rentals, saying he wanted to see if short-term rentals were something “that Town Meeting wants.”
Zoning Board of Appeals member Darja Nevits spoke against the amendment. She said the goal of the article was to give people the opportunity to make space for family members.
“The idea of allowing shortterm rentals, to me, is just all against what the whole ADUs have always stood for,” she said.
White did successfully propose an amendment to strike the language “one-half the gross floor area of the principal dwelling” and “whichever is smaller” in a section of the bylaws regarding the size of ADUs.
White said he wanted to simplify the language as the article impacted him. He is planning on building an ADU for family members and, with the wording as it was, he said it would not be possible for him or any other Hudson resident to build one to the maximum limit of 900 square feet.
Town Meeting approves license for Hudson Hives
Article 10 was a vote to amend the protective zoning bylaws by updating the official zoning map, while Article 11 was a vote to amend the zoning bylaws by updating the section numbers of the town’s zoning districts. Both were housekeeping articles that passed.
Article 8 was a vote to authorize the Select Board to petition the Massachusetts General Court to adopt legislation allowing the town to grant an additional license for the sale of wine and malt beverages to Hudson Hives, located at 45 Main St.
Owners Stephen and Jen Burney would like to specifically sell mead, a malt liquor, at their business, as they stated at the Aug. 19 Select Board meeting. At that meeting, she noted “mead is the oldest alcohol beverage” and is made with
mead, yeast and water with fruits and spices often added into the mix.
However, there are a fixed number of liquor licenses in Hudson, and they had to petition the Select Board to put a warrant article on the Town Meeting warrant to approve the license. The intent was to only sell mead and not compete with the liquor stores in town.
It passed unanimously at Town Meeting. Now that the petition passed, the next step for the Burneys is to work with Representative Kate Hogan to get the license approved.
By Dr. Donald Pelto Podiatrist
WESTBOROUGH - If you're tired of dealing with painful, unsightly warts, the new Swift Wart Treatment might be the solution you’ve been looking for. This advanced procedure has provided a fast, effective solution for our patients at Central Massachusetts Podiatry.
Unlike traditional methods that can require up to 10 sessions, Swift’s advanced technology clears warts in just four short sessions, boasting an impressive 90% success rate.
MARLBOROUGH – The Marlborough Garden Club will kick off the holiday season with its annual Holiday Boutique on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 9 to 11 a.m. at the 1 Lt Charles W. Whitcomb Middle School, 25 Union St.
This event features original, one-of-a-kind creations – fresh green arrangements, wreaths, swags, centerpieces, and much more — all created by members. This is the 46th year the club has held its boutique.
The Holiday Boutique is a fundraising tradition that supports the club’s many philanthropic activities, including beautification efforts throughout Marlborough; community educational programs; and scholarships for Marlborough students.
Founded in 1959 by a group of five friends, the Marlborough Garden Club today is an active nonprofit organization dedicated to beautification, education and conservation to improve the city. Throughout the year, the club offers programs on horticultural or environmental topics which are open to the public.
For more information, visit www.marlboroughgardenclub.org.
Say goodbye to messy creams, tedious appointments, and lengthy treatment periods. With Swift Wart Treatment, you can get back to living your life wart-free in no time!
Fix my wart.com
For immediate treatment, call our of�ice at (508) 757-4003 or text "Swift" to (508) 625-7775 to schedule your appointment today. Same-day appointments might be available.
We have also prepared an e-book with detailed information about this groundbreaking treatment. Visit www.�ixmy-
wart.com to access the e-book and watch success stories from our patients.
At Central Massachusetts Podiatry, we’re always investing in the latest treatments to help our patients enjoy pain-free feet. Call (508) 757-4003 for an appointment or book online.
Central Massachusetts Podiatry
508-757-4003
299 Lincoln St. Suite 202, Worcester 24 Lyman St. Suite 180, Westborough www.centralmasspodiatry.com
Volunteers assemble 400 kits for less fortunate children
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
MARLBOROUGH – A little holiday cheer. A bit of comfort during a hospital visit.
For hundreds of children in the Marlborough area, this is what’s found inside a Kits for Kids package. Beyond the toys and games and winter clothes, the kits represent the assurance that someone cares.
On Monday, Nov. 18, at the Apex Entertainment Center, dozens of volunteers and sponsors assembled 400 kits as part of the annual “Networking with a Purpose;” these kits will be distributed to agencies throughout the city.
“This is one of my favorite events the [Marlborough Regional Chamber of Commerce] puts on,” said Mayor J. Christian Dumais.
Karen Paquette is a volunteer with the Chamber and parent of a former student at Orchard Hill Academy. For the occasion, she wore a Grinch shirt.
“My heart has grown by multiple sizes,” she explained as to why she wore that shirt.
“The school saved my daughter’s and my family’s lives.”
Orchard Hill Academy, a program within the Assabet Valley Collaborative, is a therapeutic school for children age 11 through 18 with learning challenges. The school provides customized programs, including art and music therapy classes.
The academy will receive
kits, as will Marlborough Hospital and the Marlborough Community Cupboard.
“I use them every year,” said Barbara LaGrenade, director of the Cupboard. She will receive 150 kits for clients; many will be handed out during the holiday season.
“It makes a huge difference in their lives,” said Ellen Carlucci of Marlborough Hospital. “We are truly grateful.”
She said the kits are handed to children waiting in the emer-
gency room for treatment, either for themselves or for a family member.
Positive Thinking
After assembling 400 kits for children in need, participants in “Networking with a Purpose” pose for a group photo. (Photo/
Heather and Jay Johnston, who began Kits for Kids in 2006, thanked all those who sponsored or donated items for the event.
The mission of Kits for Kids is to provide comfort, aid and
LOCATED INSIDE
Be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is — His good, pleasing and perfect will.
— Romans 12:2
The teachings of our Lord embraces positive thinking, but it reaches beyond thoughts to touch hidden possibilities of the spirit.
When we face the reality of situations in our lives, positive thinking can help up to a point, but a relationship with the living Christ can do so much more.
Positive thinking can only bring about limited solutions. Real change comes when you move past thinking, to an unshakable trust of God’s work in your life.
Positive thinking, together with solid faith in the Almighty Christ, is a creative force that enables you to live as God intended you to live - in victory and with joy.
and
simple happiness to children and teens experiencing poverty, displacement and various other forms of instability. Since its beginning, more than 25,000 kits have been distributed.
For information, visit https://www.kitsforkids.org/
Tough 10/Fast 5 Turkey Trot on Dec. 1
MARLBOROUGH – The Highland City Striders are getting ready for its annual Tough 10/ Fast 5 Turkey Trot on Dec. 1. The race will take place at Ghiloni Park and begin at 9 a.m. Both races are free, though the organization asks participants to bring 15 canned goods to donate.
There will be medals for the top finishers in each race, and prizes will be distributed at random, including a free entry into the Central Mass Striders’ Freezer Five Race; a $100 gift card to Apex Entertainment; gift cards to Lost Shoe, Raising Canes and StretchMed; swag and awards to the top three biggest teams.
Register online at https:// runsignup.com/Race/MA/ Marlborough/ToughFast TurkeyTrot?rsus=200-500ae15723e-eb01-4b2d-8bd8f9d6510f8253.
Sponsored by Chief Joseph Robert J. Terkanian, P.O. Box
Kits for Kids, completed
ready for distribution. (Photo/Maureen Sullivan)
Melissa TattenPerry)
Blue Square Pizza to expand into
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor
NORTHBOROUGH – Blue Square Pizza may be moving into the former home of Texas BBQ Company on Main Street.
Founder Troy Sproul said the roof has been built, and the windows would be installed this week. Crews were hoping to begin interior work this week or next.
Blue Square Pizza is currently located at 30 Main St. in Hopkinton. The Northborough location would be the company’s second restaurant.
The idea for Blue Square Pizza sprung from Sproul’s exposure to Detroit-style in 2017. He said he was enamored with it.
“It was just so unique and different,” he recalled. “I have always said that if did get the opportunity, I would work on opening a Detroit-style concept myself.”
The name “Blue Square” is an homage the blue steel rectangular pans that Detroitstyle pizzas are traditionally cooked in.
Sproul has been in the industry for about 16 years, and previously worked as a regional operations manager for OTTO Pizza, which had a dough facility in Lynn. Sproul had the idea that he could buy the dough from the OTTO facility and have it delivered to his unit.
He said he became serious about developing the Blue Square concept in early 2021. As he was researching the style, he realized that the dough
that was produced for OTTO Pizza would not work for Blue Square as Detroit-style requires a specific type of dough with a certain weight and hydration.
So Sproul purchased a standing mixer and read as many books as possible on pizza. He created one to two batches of dough a week before he became happy with his dough that fall. He began to segue into bread baking and discovered sourdough; he created a sourdough starter and worked to adjust his recipes to accommodate sourdough.
Blue Square opened its doors in 2022. It offers several styles, including Detroit, New York, grandma, Chicago cracker thin and a proprietary style called The Blue Square.
“We’re super busy. In terms of industry standard, it’s insane volume in here, which is why I decided to look for a second location. Northborough, I’m hoping, will help ease some of the stress and demand that we have on this spot on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights,” said Sproul.
He said that Blue Square was serving a lot of customers already from the Northborough
Claytime celebrates 25 years
SHREWSBURY – Claytime celebrated its 25th anniversary on Nov. 18.
area; plus, diners come from across New England to get their pizza.
“We’re definitely a destination,” he said.
Sproul is eying an April opening date, depending on speed of the work and of the town when it comes to approving permits and inspections. According to Planning Director Laurie Connors, a pizza shop is a by-right use, and the project will not need to go before the Planning Board or Zoning Board of Appeals.
Inspired by an activity at a friend’s birthday party, partners Laurel Knox and Joanne Wax founded the company in 1999 on Pleasant Street in Worcester. Claytime moved to its current location — 124 Boston Turnpike — in Shrewsbury several years later.
Claytime is celebrating 25 years of pottery, painting, and more!
(Photo/Evan Walsh)
Through birthday parties, corporate events, after-school programs, date nights, and more, Claytime has given thousands of community members the opportunity to design their own pottery. Wherever Knox and Wax go, there’s love for Claytime.
“You can be in here and see people of all ages and generations together. Grandmothers with their kids, generations — sitting together, doing something all together,” said Wax.
“We get people every day who come in and say how glad they are that we’re in business. Some people who we had as kids are coming in with their kids. We’ve had people meet here, come back a year later, and get engaged,” said Knox. “It still sometimes surprises me how much people love to do this.”
Blue Square Pizza is hoping to open a location in Northborough on Main Street.
(Photo/Evan Walsh)
Sparklean opens Westborough office
REGION – 13 Gables Inc. is
The company provides custom home builds, home renovations, commercial work, site work and project management services. Since 1986, 13 Gables has been a cornerstone in the construction industry in Central Massachusetts and MetroWest. It has built a reputation of delivering exceptional craftsmanship and unparalleled service.
13 Gables staff members are
fully licensed and insured, ensuring that every project meets the highest standards of quality and safety, and the team is dedicated to providing precision project management, tailored design consultations and personalized project oversight. 13 Gables is committed to bringing customers’ visions to life. Its general contractors offer after-hours service and oneyear limited warranties. For more information, call 508-987-6263 or visit https:// www.13gablesinc.com.
Westborough Office Space
WESTBOROUGH – Sparklean Cleaning Services has opened a new Westborough office at 57 East Main St., Suite 139.
Sparklean is a family-owned and operated cleaning company that serves Central and MetroWest Massachusetts.
The company has over a decade of experience and has earned a reputation of delivering top-quality services with a personal touch to their clients. Sparklean offers a variety of cleaning services, ranging from residential and commercial cleaning to specialized move-in or move-out and post-construction clean ups.
No matter the job, Sparklean staff members ensure that every space is left spotless, making their clients’ lives a little easier and their homes and/or
Sparklean Cleaning Services recently held a ribbon cutting of its
work places cleaner.
For a free quote, call 508333-3354. For more information visit https://sparkleancomp.com.
Paradise City Arts Festival kicks off holiday season
MARLBOROUGH – Paradise City Arts Festival will be returning to kick off the holidays at the Royal Plaza Trade Center.
Taking place Nov. 22 to 24, Paradise City Arts is a treasure trove of gift ideas, oneof-a-kind home furnishings,
Paradise City Arts Festival is returning Nov. 22 to 24.
fashion, jewelry and fine art. The festival will feature over 170 juried artists sharing their work in painting, art glass, ceramics, decorative fiber, fine furniture, jewelry, leather, metal, mixed media, photography, large-scale sculpture, wearable art and wood.
The event also includes two cafes, live music and a themed exhibit entitled “Styling the Seasons” in the Sculpture Café.
“Each year, we combine new artists with the returning, always with an eye toward curating an event that includes different price points and aesthetics and tapping into the latest trends,” said Director Geoffrey Post.
The coat check and gift wrap station will benefit the Marlborough Public Schools Association through voluntary donations.
The festival will take place Nov. 22 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Nov. 23 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Nov. 24 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission costs $14 for adults who purchase their tickets online and $16 at the box office, $8 for students and children under 12 get in for free. Tickets can be purchased at paradisecityarts.com.
13 Gables Inc. is celebrating 38 years in the business.
Westborough office.
Grafton stands tall in clockmaking history
GRAFTON THEN NOW
By Kristen Remillard History Columnist
GRAFTON – Did you know that one of the oldest standing structures in Grafton is the Willard House and Clock Museum located at 11 Willard Street?
This farmhouse, originally a Nipmuc settlement, was purchased by Major Joseph Willard and his wife Martha Clark Willard in the early 1700s. The residence would become the birthplace of the first Caucasian child born in Grafton, Benjamin Willard. Benjamin was the father of famous clockmaker Simon Willard. Benjamin and his wife Martha would go on to have 12 children, 90 grandchildren and 226 greatgrandchildren that originated from the Willard farmhouse. As you can imagine, many longtime Grafton residents today can trace their family back to the Willard family.
Four of the Willard siblings, more notably Simon and Aaron, would begin clockmaking out of their farmhouse in Grafton. The brothers worked in the Grafton workshop until Simon moved to Roxbury in 1780. Aaron would soon follow, and each would start their own shops near one another. At this time, clockmakers typically operated out of their homes, working long and tedious hours. The early clockmakers made every piece of their clocks and would only be capable of creating about 50 clocks over a 20-year clockmaking career. This extreme loss, more time spent than money made, created issues with interest in a clockmaking career.
The Willard brothers recognized the issues and created solutions during this time of innovation in America. As noted, clockmakers traditionally worked alone, creating their clocks piece by piece. The brothers began outsourcing clock pieces, so they could build more clocks quicker.
Outsourcing individual clock pieces resulted in 20 different craftsmen’s positions. One craftsman would specialize in making only one individual clock part, rather than one person making every single
part that is required in a clock. The Horological Society of New York posted on YouTube a lecture by Robert Cheney, executive director and curator of the Willard House and Clock museum. During that lecture, Cheney described discovering numbers on the “8-day clock” pieces created by Simon. They got their name because they could go about a week without rewinding. Cheney realized the numbers on these particular clocks indicated the amount of those clocks made. This indicated that Simon Willard made almost 1,600 “8 Day Clocks,” while also producing over a dozen other styles of clocks out of his Roxbury shop. By 1802, Simon Willard would become famous for his patented “8-day time piece,” also known as a banjo clock. A “time piece” is a clock that does not “strike the hour” (make sound). It is still being discovered exactly how these clocks were actually built and put together, as the task is extremely complex. The Willards were masters of their trade, so much so that their clocks were requested in places like meet-
ing houses, the Old Supreme Court chambers in Washington, Harvard University, the National Statuary Hall in Washington, and more. To this day, Willard clocks are sought out and cherished by avid clock collectors and horologists. If you would like to see the Willard home and their unique collection of Willard
Grafton native Simon Willard became famous for his patented “8-day time piece,” also known as a banjo clock. (Photo/ Wikipedia)
family portraits, official documents, clockmaking tools and of course their world-famous clocks, schedule a visit so you can experience history frozen in time. The Willard House and Clock Museum was made possible by the efforts and generosity of Willard family fans and horology enthusiasts such as Dr. and Mrs. Robinson
of Grafton. In the late 1960s the Robinsons began their efforts to repair and fill the museum with their personal Willard artifacts. The home was finally established as a museum for the public to enjoy in 1971. The museum remains open to this day and features nearly 100 clocks.
Clockmaking is an art that is carried on to this very day and celebrated by those who have spent their lives devoted to the mystery that these pieces carry with them. There are still some unanswered questions about the techniques used to build such a complicated mechanism during such an early time in America. Some of those techniques may have died long ago with masters of the trade, such as the Willard brothers. Thanks are owed to the folks at the Willard House and Clock Museum for their dedication to preserving this amazing piece of Grafton history. The famous clock makers Simon and Aaron left their farmhouse in Grafton, but the Willard House and Clock Museum is where their story and three generations of clockmaking began.
Order online at thevinbin.com
MARLBOROUGH – The Ordination Service of Russ Goliger took place Nov. 10 at the First Church in Marlborough, Congregational. Surrounded by family and friends, he now joins the ministry of word and sacrament in the United Church of Christ.
Formerly of Marlborough, Russ once served as music director of First Church, a position now held by his son,
The Ordination Service of Russ Goliger took place at the First Church in Marlborough, Congregational. Surrounded by family and friends, he now joins the ministry of word and sacrament in the United Church of Christ. In the photo, he stands with his daughter Olivia and his mother Florence. (Photo/Mary Wenzel)
Timothy Goliger.
A musical family, Timothy joined his sister Olivia and brother William in the anthem, “May Peace Flow.”
Russ thanked his children for the joy they bring to his life and to his mother, Florence,
and his late father, Eugene, for their unending love.
The Rev. Dr. Kazimierz Bem, pastor of First Church, was joined in the service by many including the Rev. Lee Atherton, the Rev. Sarah Hubbell and the Rev. Dr. M. Elisabeth Waters.
The local Church Discernment Team included Frank Marino, Clifford Fenton, Laurel Hill, Kim Beauchemin and Melissa Prunell.
Following the service the Women’s Fellowship of First Church hosted a reception in the Parish Hall.
When a friend asked Russ to autograph her Ordination bulletin, he signed it “Rev. Russ Goliger” and said it marked the first time he had written his name with his new title, Rev. (for “Reverend).
Russ continues his journey as the called minister of the First Congregational Church of Westminster in Westminster, Mass.
THE MARLBOROUGH LIONS
CLUB recently hosted a special Senior Pasta Dinner for senior residents of Marlborough. The seniors enjoyed a delicious meal of pasta, meatballs and salad. Tim Maenpaa provided piano entertainment. Lion Kevin Boyle was the chairman of this event.
“CHRSTMAS AT THE FARM,” presented by the Marlborough Historical Society, will be held Saturday, Dec. 7, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Peter Rice Homestead, 377 Elm St. Sit by the fire and enjoy baked goods, hot chocolate and more for an old-time country Christmas. Admittance is $5 per family.
KRISTIN PERDUE, daughter of Suzanne Perdue of Marlborough, ran the New York Marathon Nov. 3 in New York City. Running with the Boston Children’s Hospital team, Kristin beat out over 13,000 other runners with a 42,095 place in the 55,646 runner competition. Runners came from 137 countries and all 50 states as well as D.C., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands and Guam.
JIM AND SUE RENNIE joined family and friends as they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Nov. 2 at the Marlborough Country Club.
Winter market comes to Marlborough
MARLBOROUGH – The Marlborough Farmers Market will be setting up for three dates this winter.
Come to the Marlborough Public Library on Saturdays, Dec. 7, Jan. 11 and Feb. 8, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The winter market will feature local produce, meat and other specialty vendors that are all Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program eligible.
For information, go to https://marlboroughfarmersmarket. com/
The Marlborough Lions Club recently hosted a special Senior Pasta Dinner for senior residents of Marlborough. The seniors enjoyed a delicious meal of pasta, meatballs and salad. In the photo, front from left are Lions Club members, Marlene King, Sharon Levy and Laura Koester. (Photo/Courtesy)
Site plan submitted for Wildwood
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
MARLBOROUGH – The building at 189 Boston Post Road East that once housed the Wildwood restaurant may not be standing for much longer.
The plan calls for the current building to be
The former Sue Dalbec and Jim Rennie were married on Nov. 4, 1974, in Worcester. They are parents of Andew Rennie and the late Jason Rennie and have three granddaughters, Andrea, Grace and Maggie. Jim and Sue marked their golden anniversary this past summer with a cruise.
“SILAS FELTON, CHILD OF THE REVOLUTION,” will be presented on Tuesday, Nov. 26, at 7 p.m., at the Peter Rice Homestead, 377 Elm St. Presented by the Marlborough Historical Society, this is the story of how a farm boy from Marlborough became a teacher, a merchant and then on to be a three-term state representative, an assessor and a justice of the peace. This presentation will be given by John Gately who serves as a member of the Board of Trustees of the Society. The presentation is free and refreshments will be served.
‘TIS THE SEASON for holiday events.
On Saturday, Nov. 23, visit the Meeting House Fair, 9 to 2, at the First Church in Marlborough, Congregational.
Also on Nov. 23, the Rotary’s Turkey Shoot begins at the Assabet Valley School at 6 p.m.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
Nov. 8 – Nancy Dalbec
Nov. 10 – Aaron Dalbec
Nov. 20 – Samantha Dalbec
Nov. 22 – Joan Gregoire and Dave Williams
Nov. 24 – Dan Verrico
Nov. 25 – Steve Kotsopoulos
Nov. 26 – Peter Lane
Nov. 28 – Happy Thanksgiving
Nov. 30 – Tim Fiske and Mike Youngstrom
Dec. 1 – Kelsey Hanahan
Dec. 2 – Helen Barsamian, Gerard Boland and Erin Merritt
Dec. 3 – Judy Kellogg and Jim Moriarty
Dec. 4 – Andrea Hollis
Send items for “Marlborough at a Glance” to Mary Wenzel at marysampler@verizon.net. Put GLANCE in the subject line.
On Sept. 18, a site plan was submitted to the city by David M. Robinson, an engineer for the site’s owner, Delca Real Estate Holding LLC. The plan calls for the teardown of the existing restaurant building; the demolition of the existing parking lot and site features; and the construction of a new 26,400-square-foot building, driveway, parking lot with 143 total spaces; building utilities; grading; drainage and landscaping.
The new building will
house Pao Brasil Restaurant and Bakery.
According to the site plan approval application, the project will require a Massachusetts Department of Transportation permit to install new water and gas lines, which is under review with the city. Also, the sewer will tie to existing municipal sewer systems, and an exterior grease trap will be required to handle kitchen flows.
The site plan submission is currently under review, said Tin Htway, the city’s building commissioner.
The Wildwood closed in the spring of 2023 after nearly a century in business.
The Community Advocate has reached out to the new owner for comment.
torn down.
(Photo/Maureen Sullivan)
Kristin Perdue, daughter of Suzanne Perdue of Marlborough, ran the New York Marathon Nov. 3 in New York City. She was running with the Boston Children’s Hospital team. (Photo/Courtesy)
Jim and Sue Rennie joined family and friends as they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary at the Marlborough Country Club. (Photo/Courtesy)
HOMES MORE&
Keller Williams Realty
Boston-MetroWest
Member: KW Luxury Homes
Mobile: (508) 294-0778
I’ll Make It Happen. You’ll Make It Home.
The Reality of Being In Real Estate
By Jennifer Juliano
Acommontopic that comes up in conversation is what we do for work. It’s almost a given that as soon as someone hears, “I’m a Realtor®” or any variation thereof, questions or assumptions begin about the market. Often we may hear “Oh, I’ve always wanted to do that, I love houses and people”. Let me not shatter your visions of the many so-called reality real estate shows, but, it’s not exactly like that.
In my opinion at least, it’s too easy to get a real estate license. Having a license and actively working in the industry are not one and the same. The 40-hour, standardized licensing course can be taken online or in person, after which another standardized licensing test is given. It’s been over 20 years since I took the original test, although many continuing education renewals since, and I’m told by ones who have recently that it can be tricky. Good. There are many details in each purchase and sale, or even on showings, that need attention. Once licensed, the next step is interviewing different agencies to see which one best fits your personality and overall needs. Some prefer small brokerages, some prefer internationally recognized chains, and each have pros and cons. Like any industry, it’s finding the right fit, and there are many out-of-pocket fees as you go along.
Where the myths and missed expectations come in especially with recently licensed agents is the notion that it’s get-rich quick, that you’ll have sales day two of being affiliated with a company, and you’re handed business. Let’s add that those flexible hours you thought you were craving to get out from behind the 9-5 grind means you’re now going in different directions, long hours, and limiting family time. Training, whether it’s field training or classroom, is so important. Knowing what to look for, what to anticipate and how to avoid it, even as basic as to write an offer or show and price a house. It’s not as innate as one would think although becomes second nature.
How an agent gets paid has been the focus of recent coverage, and frankly, it isn’t entirely accurate in mainstream media’s inimitable way. It is true that 99% of agents are 100% fee based, meaning that there is no salary. We get paid when a property closes. Some clients take a week to find a house and on average 45 days or so to close, some take months or even years for varying reasons. Maybe they’ve made many offers that haven’t stuck, or they’ve been overly particular and needed to revisit expectations. All of that relates to the agent’s time, expenses, knowledge, and expertise that you hired them for in the beginning. Basically, when you get the keys, is when we get paid. Whether an agent is representing a buyer or a seller, there is time, energy, and expenses that they’re investing in you, which we do because we love our career.
The majority of agents are 1099 independent contractors and not employees. We are responsible for our expenses and taxes on top of whatever compensation arrangement is with our brokerage. Whether paid by a seller or as part of a buyer representation agreement, the fact is that we are not necessarily getting this huge, immediate windfall that is perceived. It can definitely be lucrative for those who make it past the initial five-year mark, and although it’s not a career for everyone, it’s one that helps a basic need of housing, investment opportunities, and one I’ve enjoyed for nearly half my Life at this point.
Jennifer Juliano, REALTOR®
Where Activities Abound
Engage in our full calendar of programs and activities
Fitness programs, art classes, clubs, live performances, and more
New Horizons at Marlborough offers a wide variety of engaging activities for residents year-round. Individuals may choose from physical fitness instruction, performance and visual art classes, gardening, educational presentations, and much more. Every activity is specifically designed to benefit the well-being of residents.
On-site amenities such as our heated lap pool, raised garden beds, greenhouse, theater, and “town common” provide ideal settings for active seniors. All activities and events are facilitated by New Horizons’ friendly and knowledgeable staff.
Immediate availability, including three home-cooked meals daily, starting at $2,400/month for one resident
New Horizons at Marlborough offers:
• Gardening on raised flower beds • Mind & body relaxation classes • Billiards & board games
College alumni clubs
Exercise instruction
Book & cinema club
Computer training
Watercise classes
Trips off campus
Trivia nights
COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
AMSA | from page 1
Secondary Education.
Charter schools are independent public schools designed to encourage innovative educational practices. Charter schools are funded by tuition charges assessed against the school districts where the students reside. The state provides partial reimbursement to the sending districts for the tuition costs incurred.
The charter school is allowed to control its own budget and hire (and fire) teachers and staff. In return for this freedom, a charter school must demonstrate good results within five years or risk losing its charter.
According to AMSA leaders, the proposed enrollment increase would help them obtain more funds to operate the school.
According to AMSA Executive Director Lisa Mobley, AMSA is dealing with increases in fixed costs, like utilities; it
also has to pay more rent to ForeKicks, which is adjacent to AMSA and serves as the school’s athletic facility.
“Schools are facing huge challenges right now,” said Mobley. “We cannot ask the town for more money; we have to live within the budget.”
Chapter 70 and the lottery
The main concern discussed by School Committee members is whether the increase would translate into Chapter 70 funds being transferred from Marlborough Public Schools to AMSA.
Member Heidi Matthews was concerned that Chapter 70 funds “intended for students needing the most help” could be diverted.
Mobley said the state does reimburse the school district for students transferring to a charter school. The district receives 100% reimbursement for the student’s first year,
60% the second year, 40% the third year and nothing after that point.
The issues between public and charter schools begin at the state level, including how a charter school receives funding, and when, and how, students are selected.
According to Mobley, students are selected for charter schools, such as AMSA, based on a “blind” lottery. The lottery is conducted on a spaceavailable basis, with preference given to siblings of current students, followed by students within the school’s four-town district, including Marlborough, Hudson, Clinton and Maynard in the case of AMSA.
Any student in the lottery who is not chosen is placed on a waiting list.
According to Murphy, because of the lottery charter schools such as AMSA “do not have to provide the same special education services that we have.”
Murphy added that with the current lottery system, it’s impossible for new arrivals to apply since they would not have lived in the district long enough.
Mobley said that AMSA has 24.5% of students who are English language learners (ELLs); 4.7% are ELL students requiring services; 17.3% of stu-
dents come from low-income families; 6.8% are students with disabilities; 27% of students are considered “high needs.”
She would like to have the lottery changed to a “weighted” lottery, with a better chance for more students with special needs and ELLs to get into AMSA.
State officials visit Assabet during STEM Week
MARLBOROUGH – Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Acting Commissioner Russell D. Johnston visited Assabet Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School to tour the school’s technical programs during statewide STEM week.
On Tuesday, Oct. 22, John-
ston visited the school along with Deputy Commissioner Regina Robinson and other staff members.
Throughout the day, visitors toured some of Assabet’s many technical programs, including engineering and automotive technology. During the tour, visitors observed students applying their technical education in action. Visitors also explored Assabet’s unique course offerings, including its Marine Corps Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps course, also known as leadership education.
In recognition of STEM week in Massachusetts, Oct. 21-25, the commissioner and representatives also visited several science classrooms.
Johnston and members of his staff also hosted a roundtable talk, which allowed students, faculty and staff to discuss the school’s programs and explore further opportunities.
The school also hosted tours for prospective eighth-grade students from its sending town of Westborough.
“We are honored to have Acting Commissioner Johnston and members of our legislation visit and experience our vast educational offerings,” said Superintendent Ernest Houle. “This was a wonderful opportunity for our students to demonstrate their determination and academic progress. I express my gratitude to Mr. Johnston for recognizing the value of STEM and technical education and taking the initiative to learn about our programs and student experiences.”
To learn more about Assabet’s technical programs, visit https://www.assabet.org/
By Sarah Freedman Contributing Writer
HUDSON – The School Committee heard from Hudson High School Principal Jason Medeiros on Nov. 5 about the school improvement plan for the high school and the goals for specific curriculum work.
Medeiros shared four goals for the improvement plan at the high school and said that the goals were consistent across the five schools in the Hudson School District by design “with a few tweaks.”
“Essentially, we all have the same focus that we’re trying to push,” he said.
The first goal was to have educators develop success criteria based on established standards, curriculum and data. The idea was to have benchmarks for the students to meet each week and create a more consistent system with daily criteria for successful lessons.
School Committee Chair Steven Smith asked if there was
a systematic way to track the results of meeting the criteria.
Medeiros said it was more by way of observation of specific benchmarks.
The second goal was the incorporation of the Vision of a Graduate guidelines into the day to work with staff, students and the community. The intent for teachers to see the links and connections in the curriculum, as well as to develop communication strategies.
“Our goal at the end of the year is that educators can explain the elements of the Vision of a Graduate” and describe how they are practiced in the classroom, he said.
One example Medeiros gave was three different approaches to a math equation and comparing them in a way that allows students to think critically.
He said, “You have to take what you know, synthesize that information and come up with a solution.”
On Oct. 22, Assistant Su -
“ I know the high school is putting an emphasis on really thinking about the Vision of a Graduate and connecting that to success criteria this year with professional development.
Kathy Provost Assistant Superintendent
perintendent Kathy Provost said a document for the Vision of the Graduate criteria was developed and published. She said they would explore what similar guidelines would look like at the middle and elementary schools.
Provost said, “I know the high school is putting an emphasis on really thinking about the Vision of a Graduate and connecting that to success criteria this year with the professional development.”
The third goal is to develop an early college program that will align with the Massachusetts Department of Elemen-
tary and Secondary Education, while making sure everyone has equal access to it.
Medeiros said it is a state program that targets “traditionally underserved student populations” in gaining access to postsecondary education. They have submitted grants for two different funding sources to see what the program could look like at the high school.
He said, “We have partnered with Worcester State [University] to help us kind of shape what that can be.”
The long-term goal is to apply for the final round of the grant applications by the end
of the next school year, according to Medeiros. This year, they want to apply for planning funds toward the program and then for an official state designation for the program for 2026.
Medeiros said that in the second semester of this school year Worcester State will be giving them access to 25 seats within a college course to begin this work, which gives the students a feeling of what an early college course could be like.
The last and fourth goal would be to have a socialemotional learning (SEL) task force to create a model for programming. Every year, he said, they have been adjusting their SEL program to get student and staff feedback.
This year, students are getting lessons based on the SEL yearly survey or screener. These lessons go by grade level to fit the needs of the students. “We are coming up with something that really is sustainable,” said Medeiros.
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
Ashman, Stephen formerly of Northborough Baker, Mark formerly of Westborough Brodeur, Michel of Shrewsbury Correia, Agnes of North Grafton Cote, Sr. Gloria a Sister of Saint Chretienne Cotoni, Alyse formerly of Marlborough Goss, Ellida of Marlborough Lahey, Beulah of Grafton Litchfield, Harold of Marlborough McGuire, Patricia of Marlborough Morte, Lynn of Marlborough Partridge Jr., George formerly of Northborough Perron, Donald of Shrewsbury Shea, Donald of Shrewsbury White, Larry of Hudson
Alyse M. Cotoni, 40
WORCESTER - Alyse Marie (Laliberte) Cotoni, 40, of Worcester, MA, formerly of Marlborough, died Monday, September 30th, of complications from diabetes, a chronic illness she wrestled with since she was ten. The eldest child of Andre and Kathleen (Donnelly) Laliberte, she was raised in Marlborough. She is survived by her son Toby and his father Jay Cotoni of Marlborough; her parents Andre and Kathy Laliberte of Marlborough; her sister Krista Laliberte of Los Angeles; her brother Calvin Laliberte of Chicago; her paternal grandparents George and Evelyn Laliberte of Mashpee; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. And of course, her favorite girlies Meghan, Nan, Amy, and Livia. She was predeceased by her grandfather Francis Donnelly and her beloved grandmother Barbara (Crotty) Donnelly whom she has joined on the eternal swing set.
The Slattery Funeral Home, Inc. of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.
George H. Partridge Jr., 83
NASHUA, NH - George Henry Partridge, Jr., 83, of Nashua, passed away Friday morning, November 8, 2024 at Premier Rehab and Healthcare in Nashua.
Mr. Partridge was born February 22, 1941, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, son of the late George H. Sr. and Yvonne (Bolduc) Partridge of Northborough, Massachusetts.
George was the husband of Catherine Elizabeth (Smith) Partridge, whom he married on July 31, 1971. They shared over 51 years of marriage until her passing on February 13, 2023.
He is survived by his daughter, Michelle Ann Partridge Oro and her husband Jonathan Oro; and granddaughters, Catherine Judith Oro and Elizabeth Ann Oro.
Arrangements are in the care of the Farwell Funeral Service of Nashua, NH.
Donald N. Perron, 83
SHREWSBURY - Donald N. Perron, 83, of Shrewsbury, passed on Friday, November 8th, 2024, after a brief illness. He was predeceased by his wife, Patricia (Bergstrom) Perron and a son, John “Jackie” E. Perron.
He leaves his children, Donald F. Perron and his wife Janine Perron, of Shrewsbury; Deborah (Perron) Grady, of Shrewsbury; Kelly Marcimo Everitt and her husband Ronald Everitt, of Bourne, David N. Perron, of Worcester, Susan Perron and her significant other Jason Spratt, of Troy, MI; his grandchildren, Erin Grady and her significant other, Alex Reardon, of Westboro; Sean Grady and his wife Anastasia, of Lunenburg; Brett Marcimo and his wife Sarah, of Alton Bay, NH; Brooke Marcimo, of Marina del Ray, CA; Olivia Perron and her fiancée Michael Ouellette of Worcester, Ronald Everitt, Jr. of Bourne, Lena
Everitt and her fiancée Bryan Martin, of Albany, NY; he also leaves his great-grandchildren, Lily, William, and Violet Grady, Aubrey and Jack Reardon, Bella Sophia Marcimo, Eleanora and Anthony Everitt. Donald was predeceased by his mother, Mary E. Perron, and his brother, Charles Perron Jr.
The Britton-Shrewsbury Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
Ellida M. Goss, 83
MARLBOROUGH - Ellida “Lee” M. Goss 83 of Marlborough died peacefully at her home on Wednesday, November 6, 2024. Lee was born in Pittsfield, MA, the daughter of the late Robert and Lillian (Ross) Kassimer.
Lee was predeceased by her husband of 50 years, Arlan E. Goss in 2013.
She is survived by her sister Roberta “Bobbi” Rothman and her husband Harold “Hal” of FL.
The Short & Rowe Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.
Patricia J. McGuire, 65
MARLBOROUGH - Patricia “Patty” J. McGuire, 65, of Marlborough passed away peacefully on Wednesday November 6, 2024 surrounded by her loving family after a difficult battle with cancer.
She is survived by her husband of 33 years, Bruce R. McGuire of Marlborough, her son Michael McGuire and his wife Wenjing Li of Cambridge, her daughter Molly McGuire and her partner Kevin Crossman of Boylston, her grandson Owen, and a brother Robert O’Connor III of Hyannis.
The Short & Rowe Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.
Sr. Gloria Cote, 96
Scan QR code to read all of this week’s obituaries on our website.
Marie Esther in Marlborough MA. Born in Augusta ME on December 8, 1927, she was the daughter of the late Hormidas (Michael) and Leah (Couture) Cote.
She was predeceased by her brother Robert and her sisters, Constance Easter and Patricia Mercier. She is survived by her dear sister Lucille Norris of Peru ME and many devoted nephews, nieces and their children.
The Slattery Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.
Agnes M. Correia, 92
NORTH GRAFTON - Agnes M. Correia, 93, of North Grafton, MA, embraced her eternal rest on Monday, November 4th, 2024, leaving behind a beautiful legacy of love and joy. Her warmth and grace touched countless lives as a cherished mother and grandmother.
Agnes’s beautiful spirit lives on through her precious family — her four devoted sons: Mark, Paul, John, and Mario, their spouses Kathleen and Amy and her beloved grandchildren: Darlene, Josh, Amanda, Derrick, and Cody. And the loving people from her most recent family Tim and Cathy. The Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
Beulah Lahey, 95
North Grafton assisted with arrangements.
Lynn A. Morte, 81
MARLBOROUGH - Lynn Ann Dukes Morte, 81 of Marlboro, Ma died Nov 1 2024 at Framingham Hospital. She was born in Orange, VA the daughter of the late Walter and Audrey (Rhodes) Dukes. She is survived by her son, Phillip Morte of FL, her grandson Alexander, 2 sisters, Brenda Dukes Eyler, June Dukes Clark, 3 brothers, Walter Dukes, John Boyd and Daniel Boyd, all of Maryland and several nieces, nephews and grand nieces and nephews, cousins, Stephen Morte, Jeanine Morte and Paul Morte.
She was predeceased by her husband of 37 years, Armand Morte, an infant son, and her brother Hugh Boyd.
The Short & Rowe Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.
Donald P. Shea, 83
SHREWSBURY - Donald P. Shea, aged 83, of Shrewsbury, passed away peacefully Saturday, November 9, 2024, surrounded by loved ones.
Born in Worcester on April 6, 1941, to the late, John and Hazel Shea. Sadly, in addition to his parents, Donald was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 40 years, Mary Anna (Denaris) Shea, his brothers, Jack and Daniel Shea, and his granddaughter, McKayla Shea.
MARLBOROUGH - Sister Gloria Cote, formerly of Mexico ME, a Sister of Saint Chretienne, died Tuesday, November 5, 2024 at Alliance at
GRAFTON - It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Beulah Mary Lahey on 2024-1109 Beulah was born on July 31, 1929 in Cambridge, MA. She is survived by daughter Claire Wilson and husband Tony from North Grafton, son Edward Lahey and wife Cindy from South Grafton and son Steven Lahey from Jamaica Plain. She is also survived by many grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by son Randolph Lahey and son David Lahey. Roney Funeral Home of
Donald is survived by his loving son, Patrick and his significant other Amy Fisher of Shrewsbury; his adored grandchildren, Hailey Shea of Shrewsbury and Douglas Fisher, Jr. of Rhode Island; his cherished brother, Neil Shea of Pennsylvania; and his dear nephews, Nicholas and Michael Shea, both of Pennsylvania.
The Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel of Worcester assisted with arrangements.
Harold A. Litchfield, 87
MARLBOROUGH - Harold
“Uncle Billy” A. Litchfield 87 a lifelong resident of Marlborough died peacefully on Saturday; November 9, 2024 surrounded by his loving family.
Uncle Billy was born in Marlborough, the son of the late Harold W. and Loretta (Cloutier) Litchfield.
Uncle Billy is survived by his Nieces and Nephews, Great Nieces and Nephews especially Julie Cain-Mailly and her husband Dan Greenwood of Holden, Amanda Gazzaniga of Marlborough and Mary Deptula and her husband Mark of Sterling who were his caregivers.
The Short & Rowe Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.
Stephen B. Ashman, 60
CLINTON/NORTHBOROUGH
- Stephen B. Ashman, 60, of Clinton, formerly of Northborough, MA, died on November 9, 2024, at Clinton Hospital. He was the beloved husband of 29 years to the late Dianne L. (Mayberry) who passed away in 2018.
Born in Framingham, MA, son of the late Donald Ashman and survived by his mother Claire (Daigneault) Ashman. Besides his mother, Stephen leaves his two daughters, Marie L. Ashman of Hudson, MA and Angela N. Ashman of San Francisco, CA. He is also survived by his siblings, Janet Kettle, Kaye (Joe) Cacciatore, Robert (Pam) Ashman, Laurie (Jim) Marcheterre, (Karen) Ashman, David (Carole) Ashman, Chris (Jeanne) Ashman,
Joanne (Jerry), and Mark (Karin) Ashman along with his many beloved nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.
Stephen is predeceased by his brother, Larry, his sister-inlaw, Regina, his brother Donald and his brother Ricky.
The Tighe Hamilton Funeral Home of Hudson assisted with arrangements.
Larry White, 89
HUDSON - Larry White, 89, a lifelong resident of Hudson, MA, passed away on Sunday, November 3, 2024. Larry was born in Marlborough, MA, on August 19, 1935, to his late parents Valmore White and Marion (LaBrache) White.
Larry leaves his sisters, Peggy Manzo, Squeezle Saragian and Patty Bushey. He was pre-
deceased by his sister Arline Reed and brothers Valmore, Norman, William and Kenneth White. He also leaves his many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
The Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted with arrangements.
Michel O. Brodeur, 63
SHREWSBURY - Michel Ovide Brodeur, 63, of Shrewsbury, died November 10, 2024 at UMASS Medical Center in Worcester surrounded by his loving family. He was the son of the late Robert A. and Marie E. (Fornaciari) Brodeur of Marlborough, MA.
A devoted dad, his greatest accomplishment was taking care of his family. He is survived by his children, Collin Brodeur of California, Madison
Brodeur of Millbury, Lindsay Brodeur of Worcester, Sarah Brodeur of Woburn and Ethan Brodeur of Marlborough, his grandchildren, Riley J. Brodeur, Lillian L. Uhlman and Anthony M. Rodriguez, his nieces and nephews, great nieces and great nephews. He is also survived by his brothers Alan J. Brodeur and wife Elaine and Donald B. Brodeur and wife Kathy, along with his partner Krysta Kay, and former partners Christine Boyle and Lisa Ragan-Whitmore.
He was predeceased by his brother, Robert P. Brodeur, and his sister-in-law, Susan L. Brodeur.
The Short & Rowe Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.
Scan QR code for rate information or to email your legal notice.
SHREWSBURY
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 PLANNING BOARD
Julie Holstrom, Clerk
WESTBOROUGH
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS TOWN OF WESTBOROUGH OFFICE OF THE COLLECTOR/TREASURER TO THE OWNERS OF THE HEREINAFTER DESCRIBED LAND AND TO ALL OTHERS
CONCERNED:
You are hereby notified that on December 13, 2024 at 10:00 o’clock A.M. local time in the Collector’s Office, Town Hall, 34 W. Main St., Westborough, MA 01584 pursuant to the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 60 §53 the following described parcel (s) of land will BE TAKEN FOR THE Town of Westborough for non-payment of taxes due thereon, with the interest and all incidental expenses and cost to the date of the taking, unless the same shall have been paid before that date.
Barbara J. Walls, Collector/Treasurer
2022 Real Estate Tax
$7,994.67
Location: 23 Quick Farm Rd
Assessed Owners: Ahmed, Sirajuddin & Sanna
Subsequent Owner:
A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, containing approx. 1.218 Acres of land and part of the premises recorded at the Worcester Registry of Deeds book: 63683 Page 220, Westborough Assessor’s parcel 4-239-0.
2022 Real Estate Tax
$767.56
Location: 55 Adams St.
Assessed Owners: Orenstein, Alexander S Subsequent Owner:
A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, containing approx. .1.625 Acres of land and part of the premises recorded at the Worcester Registry of Deeds book: 21872 Page 4, Westborough Assessor’s parcel 3-10-0.
2021 Real Estate Tax
$125.02
Location: 33 Belknap St
Assessed Owners:. Graves, William R
Subsequent Owner: Morgan, William & Nancy
A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, containing approx. .372 Acres of land and part of the premises recorded at the Worcester Registry of Deeds book: 63839 Page 40, Westborough Assessor’s parcel 11-2-0.
2021 Real Estate Tax
$118.89
Location: 40 Belknap St.
Assessed Owners: Graves, William R
Subsequent Owner: Morgan, William & Nancy
A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, containing approx. 1.100 Acres of land and part of the premises recorded at the Worcester Registry of Deeds book:63839 Page 40, Westborough Assessor’s parcel 10-53-0.
2022 Real Estate Tax
$9,897.74
Location: 61 Chestnut St.
Assessed Owners:. Bennett, Matthew
Subsequent Owner:
A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, containing approx. 0.514 Acres of land and part of the premises recorded at the Worcester Registry of Deeds book: 43700 Page 382, Westborough Assessor’s parcel 15-138-0.
2020 Real Estate Tax
2021 Real Estate Tax
$2,557.57
$8,934.31
Location: 35 Hopkinton Rd.
Assessed Owners: George F Norton
Subsequent Owner: Susan & Steven Norton A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, containing approx. .0.933 Acres of land and part of the premises recorded at the Worcester Registry of Deeds book: 6173 Page 95, Westborough Assessor’s parcel 17-22-0.
2021 Real Estate Tax
Location: 25 Gleason St.
$1,103.40
Assessed Owners: Ward, Walter H
Subsequent Owner:
A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, containing approx. 0.319 Acres of land and part of the premises recorded at the
Worcester Registry of Deeds book:6580 Page 157, Westborough Assessor’s parcel 18-27-0.
2022 Real Estate Tax $1,776.28
Location: 19 Gleason St. Assessed Owners: Ward, Walter H
Subsequent Owner: A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, containing approx. 2.560 Acres of land and part of the premises recorded at the Worcester Registry of Deeds book:40391 Page 333, Westborough Assessor’s parcel 18-4-0.
2022 Real Estate Tax $13,767.39
Location: 2 John St. Assessed Owners: Giegucz, Stanley J.
Subsequent Owner:
A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, containing approx. .0.311 Acres of land and part of the premises recorded at the Worcester Registry of Deeds book: 15645 Page 74, Westborough Assessor’s parcel 20-29-0.
2021 Real Estate Tax $1,544.13
Location: 253 Turnpike Rd.
Assessed Owners: Ferranto Raymond J.
Subsequent Owner: A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, containing approx. 12.000 Acres of land and part of the premises recorded at the Worcester Registry of Deeds book: 54692 Page 162, Westborough Assessor’s parcel 26-45-0.
2022 Real Estate Tax $2,861.28
Location: 146 Milk St.
Assessed Owners: Buch, Alexandra J Subsequent Owner:
A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, containing approx. .0.351 Acres of land and part of the premises recorded at the Worcester Registry of Deeds book: 66624 Page 342, Westborough Assessor’s parcel 27-17-0.
2022 Real Estate Tax $227.63
Location: 149 Milk St. 8
Assessed Owners: Charles, Adrienne
Subsequent Owner:
A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, containing approx. 0 Acres of land and part of the premises recorded at the Worcester Registry of Deeds book: 60650 Page 60, Westborough Assessor’s parcel 27-259-308.
2022 Real Estate Tax $1,954.00
Location: 5 Zaara Dr.
Assessed Owners: Gowda, Gnanesh Gopala
Subsequent Owner: A parcel of land with any buildings thereon, containing approx. .0.260 Acres of land and part of the premises recorded at the Worcester Registry of Deeds book: 58557 Page 204, Westborough Assessor’s parcel 35-26B-0.
WESTBOROUGH SCHOOL COMMITTEE NOTICE OF PUBLIC BUDGET HEARING
The Westborough School Committee will be holding a Public Budget Hearing on Wednesday, December 4, 2023 at 6:00 pm at the Forbes Municipal Building, 2nd Floor Great Hall, 45 West Main Street, Westborough MA 01581.
HUDSON
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
COMMUNITY CLASSIFIED
COMMUNITY CLASSIFIEDS
LESSONS
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor
REGION – This year, the New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill (NEBG) is kicking off its season of Night Lights with Diwali Lights.
According to Shiamin Melville, this is the third year that NEBG and India Society of Worcester (ISW) have partnered to hold a Diwali celebration at the garden.
“To me, it’s such a perfect synergy — they do the lights and we do the lights and celebrate together,” she said.
NEBG first connected with the society in 2019 when it was working on its strategic plan. CEO Grace Elton said the garden was reaching out to as many community members as possible to get information on what the garden should be doing in the coming years. The then-President of ISW Ashish Cowlagi participated in a focus group, and ISW continues to hold a seat on the garden’s Community Advisory Committee.
ISW was founded in 1963.
“It was started by, basically, people getting together for Diwali with a potluck dinner,” Melville said.
As Diwali is the festival of lights, Melville said that doing the celebration at NEBG is “perfect.” The event will be held on Nov. 23 and feature Indian food; shopping with vendors selling Indian jewelry, clothes and crafts; henna; and a scavenger hunt to find South Asian plants. This year, dancers will be performing in shifts; plus, the society will be bringing in musical performers.
During past years, the Diwali celebration was held prior to the start of Night Lights.
“This year, because it’s part of the first night, we’ve reached such a wider audience. I’m so happy about that,” said Melville.
This year, the theme of Night Lights is
“Color Cascade” and it runs through Jan. 5.
“You will see rainbows all over the garden,” said Elton. “We try to use every color available in LED lights.”
Some fan favorites are returning this year, including the rainbow tunnel that will be located in the vegetable garden.
Every year, staff work to bring themes to each of the gardens. The theme for the Garden of Inspiration focuses on how rainbows occur, and visitors will be able to see waterfalls and ice with pops of rainbow shining through. The Garden of Inspiration has not been opened over the past several years for Night Lights as the paths were not Americans with Disabilities Act accessible.
“We made a commitment to making every part of the display accessible to every visitor who wants to visit,” said Elton.
Over the summer, the garden was able to pave the gravel pathways with concrete, and, as a result, it will be part of the display.
Visitors will also be able to enjoy the outdoor fire pits as well as s’mores kits and 3D glasses. This year will also include an outdoor “glice” skating rink that uses a synthetic product without electricity or water. Visitors will be able to skate during the day or during Night Lights and can bring their own skates or rent them at NEBG.
“I just love seeing the families enjoy the garden,” said Elton. “Our staff put so much work into this exhibit.”
She also hopes that visitors see the plants underneath the lights, as they work to highlight their collection.
“We’re all about connecting people with nature, and I want to make sure that they understand that they’re a part of nature and nature is there — they’re looking at it,” she said.
To reserve your tickets, visit https://nebg. org/nightlights/.
Dancers perform during a previous Diwali celebration at the New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill.
(Photo/Troy Thompson)
POLICE FIRE&
Quick work limits damage from house fire
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
GRAFTON – Firefighters from several communities, including Grafton, helped knock down a house fire at 37 Deerholm St. on the evening of Thursday, Nov. 14.
According to Grafton Fire Chief Eric Mathieu, the fire originated in the fireplace and spread to the walls of the home. The chief struck a first-alarm assignment, which brought crews from Westborough and Sutton to the scene.
The fire was contained mostly to the first floor. There were no injuries. The Red Cross has been called to assist the family.
The building inspector was called to the scene.
An estimated cost on damage is still being determined, but the house has been deemed uninhabitable.
Grafton Police and Fire continue to investigate the cause of the fire. Crews from Upton, Northbridge and Millbury provided station coverage.
Millbury man charged in crash near
Westborough Target
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – The Shrewsbury Police Department reportedly found items they believed to have been stolen inside of a U-Haul Truck that struck a pole near Target.
At 8:42 p.m. Nov. 12, an officer saw a U-Haul truck in the parking lot of CVS at 197 Boston Turnpike and learned that the truck had fled from Massachusetts State Police the previous night. The vehicle pulled onto Harrington Avenue, and police said in a press release that the officer saw “multiple” traffic violations and tried to pull it over.
Police said the driver tried to flee, and a rear door that was unsecured opened and items fell out of the back. Officers pursued the truck onto Old Mill Road, Main Street, Grafton Street, Route 20, South Street and Route 9 toward Westborough.
Police deployed a “stop stick” on Route 9 near the Shrewsbury and Northborough town line, disabling the tires. The driver reportedly continued, and the truck crashed into a utility pole near the Westborough Target. Shrewsbury police said that active power lines came down and blocked the road as a result of the crash.
The drive — Stephen Dupont, 47, of Millbury — was arrested. Officers said they saw several items inside the truck that they suspected were stolen.
Dupont has been charged with failing to stop for police, assault with a dangerous weapon (motor vehicle), receiving stolen property, conspiracy to commit a crime (shoplifting), negligent operation of a motor vehicle and multiple civil motor vehicle infractions.
Two female passengers have been charged with receiving stolen property and conspiracy to commit a crime (shoplifting).
Northborough
Friday, Nov. 8
1:17 p.m. Church/Whitney Sts. Criminal complaint.
2:21 p.m. Howard St. Fraud.
5:05 p.m. Summer St. Fraud.
6:22 p.m . Arrested , Timothy P. Flynn, 51, of 20 Bellevue Rd., Berlin, for op MV with license suspended.
Saturday, Nov. 9
12:59 a.m. Bartlett St. Criminal complaint.
6:48 a.m. Stratton Way. Fraud.
Sunday, Nov. 10
2:39 p.m. Main St. Trespass.
Monday, Nov. 11
10:17 a.m. Church St./Fay Ln. Criminal complaint.
3:14 p.m. Sterling Ct. Fraud.
Tuesday, Nov. 12
1:46 p.m. Shops Way. Fraud. Wednesday, Nov. 13
10:23 a.m. Bartlett St. Vandalism.
5:42 p.m. Arrested, Michelle Tibbitts, 45, of 9 Eliot Rd., Northborough, on warrant.
Grafton
Friday, Nov. 1
4:58 p.m. Main St. Threatening.
7:01 p.m. Shrewsbury St. Fire –brush.
7:16 p.m. Bridle Ridge Dr. Fire – illegal burning.
Saturday, Nov. 2
7:54 a.m. Milford Rd./Seaver Farm Rd. Traffic hazard.
12:24 a.m. Pine St. Trespassing.
3:34 p.m. Milford Rd./Seaver Farm Ln. Traffic hazard.
4:21 p.m. Providence Rd. Vandalism.
6:05 p.m. Main St. Fire – illegal burning.
6:16 p.m. Sunset Ln. Fire – illegal burning.
Sunday, Nov. 3
9:08 a.m. Providence Rd. Traffic hazard.
3:50 p.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/ identity theft.
4:43 p.m. Wesson St. Fire – illegal burning.
4:49 p.m. Providence Rd. Assault –no injuries.
4:58 p.m. Bernard Rd. Harassment.
Monday, Nov. 4
11:52 a.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/ identity theft.
Tuesday, Nov. 5
7:36 a.m. Providence Rd. Weapons violations.
5:04 p.m. (WE) Main St. Fraud/ identity theft.
6:31 p.m. Brookmeadow Ln./Providence Rd. Road hazard.
6:49 p.m. Providence Rd. Threatening.
Wednesday, Nov. 6
10:44 a.m. Providence Rd. Road hazard.
1:28 p.m. Providence/Brigham Hill Rds. Road hazard.
1:51 p.m. Providence Rd. Keeping the peace.
4:41 p.m. Fieldstone Ct. Fire –brush.
4:46 p.m. Sunrise Ave. Fire – illegal burning.
Thursday, Nov. 7
12:25 a.m. Arrested, Gabriel Bonilla Guasco, 29, of 101 N Main St., Bellingham, for unlicensed operation of MV, OUI-liquor or .08%.
1:36 p.m. Providence Rd. Threatening.
4:53 p.m. Providence Rd. Larceny/ theft.
5:23 p.m. Providence Rd. Threatening.
Friday, Nov. 8
8:01 a.m. Pine St./Centennial Dr. Traffic hazard.
11:45 a.m. Snow Rd./Tracy Ann Dr. Fire-brush.
4:28 p.m. Creeper Hill Rd. Accident – hit & run.
Saturday, Nov. 9
1:27 p.m. Creeper Hill Rd. Accident – personal injury.
11:31 p.m. Arrested, Helio M. Bettencourt, 64, of 12 Westbrook Dr., Nashua, NH, for OUI-liquor or .08% 3rd offense.
Monday, Nov. 11
10:44 a.m. Wildlife Dr. B&E in progress.
Tuesday, Nov. 12
7:16 a.m. Stowe Rd. Fire – appliance.
10:05 a.m. White Flower Ln. Fire – gas odor.
11:09 a.m. Demers St. Larceny/ theft.
11:35 a.m. Providence Rd. Scam/ attempted scam.
2:18 p.m. North St. Wires down. Wednesday, Nov. 13
12:12 p.m. Grafton Com. Fire – gas odor.
Thursday, Nov. 14
9:47 a.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/ identity theft.
11:55 a.m. Worcester St./Snow Rd. Traffic hazard.
2:17 p.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/ identity theft.
5:30 p.m. Deernolm St. Fire –structure.
10:06 p.m. Summerfield Dr. Flooding.
Marlborough
Monday, Nov. 4
7:28 a.m. Modern Guest House/ Cotting Ave. Larceny.
10:40 a.m. Dartmouth St. Vandalism.
Crews battled a fire at 37 Deerholm St. (Photo/Courtesy Grafton Fire Department)
4:06 p.m. Marlborough House of Pizza/Main St. Fraud/forgery.
4:10 p.m. Home Depot/BPRE. Threats.
11:18 p.m. The Heights at Marlborough/Briarwood Ln. Vandalism.
Tuesday, Nov. 5
8:04 a.m. Rail Trail/Boston Scientific Way. Vandalism.
8:54 a.m. Kinder Care Learning Center/BPRE. Assault.
9:02 a.m. Maple St. Vandalism. 10:20 a.m. Kinder Care Learning Center/BPRE. Threats.
6:56 p.m. Farm Rd./Phelps St. MVA with injuries.
10:15 p.m. Kinder Care Learning Center/BPRE. Threats.
Wednesday, Nov. 6
1:17 a.m. The Heights at Marlborough/Briarwood Ln. Threats.
5:01 a.m. The Heights at Marlborough/Briarwood Ln. Threats.
10:34 a.m. Bolton St. Larceny. 12:14 p.m. Broadmeadow Rd. Larceny.
4:04 p.m. East Main St. Vandalism.
8:43 p.m. Houde St. Vandalism.
9:02 p.m. Elm St./Muddy Ln. Vandalism.
9:16 p.m. Price Chopper/East Main St. Larceny.
Thursday, Nov. 7
9:34 a.m. Kinder Care Learning Center/BPRE. Harassment.
9:37 a.m. Macintosh Ave. Fraud/ forgery.
11:34 a.m. Ahlgren Cir. Fraud/ forgery.
11:50 a.m. Fairmount St. Harassment.
2:00 p.m. Richer Elementary School/ Foley Rd. Assault.
5:59 p.m. Northboro Road East. Fraud/forgery.
6:38 p.m. Warren Ave. Threats.
8:57 p.m. Arrested , Joseph F. Piarulli, 40, of 16 Gage St., Apt. 1, Worcester, for A&B – serious bodily injury.
Friday, Nov. 8
9:17 a.m. Hemenway St. Fraud/ forgery.
1:53 p.m. Chipotle Grill/BPRW. Assault.
2:09 p.m. Brazeau Cir. Vandalism. 3:14 p.m. The Burrow (1st Building)/ Green District Blvd. Trespassing. 4:37 p.m. Karopulios Dr. Burglary/ B&E past.
7:38 p.m. Halstead Apartments/ Ames St. Threats.
11:57 p.m. Newton St. Fraud/ forgery.
Saturday, Nov. 9
11:39 a.m. Applewood Dr. Fraud/ forgery.
2:47 p.m. O’Reilly Auto Parts/South Bolton St. Larceny.
7:37 p.m. Brazeau Cir. Vandalism. Sunday, Nov. 10
10:32 a.m. Target/Donald J. Lynch Blvd. Larceny.
12:00 p.m. Hosmer St. MVA with injuries.
6:00 p.m. Labelle St. Vandalism.
9:42 p.m. Arrested, Robert Batchelar, 52, of 1000 Green District Blvd., Apt. 1421, Marlborough, for disturbing the peace, A&B on police officer. Monday, Nov. 11
6:15 p.m. laundry World/East Main St. Larceny.
7:26 p.m. Washington St. Larceny. Tuesday, Nov. 12
5:04 a.m. Washington St. Larceny.
Shrewsbury
Tuesday, Nov. 12
8:55 a.m. Green St. Threats.
9:20 a.m. Boston Tpke./Oak St. Road hazard – trees/wires/debris.
9:39 a.m. Stoney Hill Rd. Identity theft.
10:30 a.m. North Quinsigamond. Identity theft.
10:50 a.m. Boston Tpke. Harassment.
11:34 a.m. Route 140/Lake St. Road hazard – trees/wires/debris.
3:33 p.m. Rawson Hill Dr. Identity theft.
8:12 p.m. Arrested, Aaron Christopher Wright, 45, of 10 Hammond St., Apt. 1, Worcester, for shoplifting by asportation, receive stolen property - $1200, conspiracy, and Stephen M. Dupont, 47, of 12 Colonial Dr., Apt. 1, Millbury, for fail to stop for police, fail to stop/yield, neg operation of MV (operate to endanger), receive stolen property - $1200, op MV with license suspended, conspiracy, assault w/dangerous weapon, marked lanes violation.
9:31 p.m. South St. Dispute. Wednesday, Nov. 13
9:28 a.m. Overlook Ave. Harassment.
10:06 a.m. Hartford Tpke. Road hazard – trees/wires/debris.
2:13 p.m. Irving Dr. Larceny.
3:07 p.m. Boston Tpke. Assaults.
Thursday, Nov. 14
9:08 a.m. Fox Hill Rd. Illegal dumping.
9:50 a.m. Hartford Tpke. Dispute. 9:50 a.m. Sherwood Ave. Harassment.
11:07 a.m. Eastern Point Dr. Threats. 1:07 p.m. South/Main Sts. Road hazard – trees/wires/debris.
10:53 p.m. Hartford Tpke. Trespassing.
Westborough
Monday, Nov. 4
8:12 p.m. Turnpike Rd. Assault.
Tuesday, Nov. 5
8:12 a.m. Computer Dr. Motor vehicle theft.
3:19 p.m. W Main St. Threats made.
4:32 p.m. W Main St. Assault.
Wednesday, Nov. 6
12:23 p.m. Milk St. Fire, wires down.
4:34 p.m. Turnpike Rd. Trespass Tow.
Thursday, Nov. 7
11:51 a.m. W Main St. Identity theft.
12:55 p.m. Turnpike Rd. Fire, smoke.
5:50 p.m. Arrested, Eric Paul Simensen, 36, of 29 Tibbetts Town Way, Charlestown, on warrant.
Friday, Nov. 8
11:11 a.m. W Main St. Fire, rescue elevator.
11:53 a.m. Lyons St. Road/tree.
5:21 p.m. Chauncy St. Motor vehicle theft.
Sunday, Nov. 10
4:41 p.m. Flanders Rd. Larceny.
10:36 p.m. Arrested , Gardner W. Freeman, 60, of 105 Purchase St., Apt. 1, Milford, for OUI-liquor or .08% 2nd offense.
SHARE THE WARMTH IN SHREWSBURY
SHREWSBURY
or a limited time, we are making our one-bedroom apartments available under an all-inclusive rental rate These units are perfectly designed for single residents (or a cozy couple) who are looking to downsize, simplify, and enjoy a stress-free lifestyle. More importantly, you’ll be part of The Willows at Westborough campus where comfort, care, and community make every day special. Simplify and start enjoying the comfort and care you deserve—schedule a visit now!
Grafton Gators victorious in quarterfinals over Marblehead
By Evan Walsh Reporter
On Nov. 15, the No. 12 Rangers fell 42-7 to fourth-ranked North Attleborough in the MIAA Division 3 quarterfinals. The loss ended an impressive stretch for Westborough. After a close loss to open the season, the Rangers won eight straight games — including an upset over No. 5 West Springfield in the opening round of the playoffs — and
became back-to-back league champions.
“I’m super, super proud of this team. They’re great kids. They’ve come a long way, and I know it stings right now, but at the end of the day, they should be proud of their accomplishments, proud of the work they put in, and proud of what they’ve done. We’re proud of them as coaches, and everybody rallied behind the program,” said Head Coach Joe Beveridge. Westborough will play Algonquin on Thanksgiving Day.
Top: Grafton was victorious in the MIAA Division 4 quarterfinals, beating Marblehead 35-0 on Nov. 15. The Gators pose for a photo, celebrating the win.
Top right: Senior Finn Gilmore hurdles a Marblehead defender. Bottom right: Grafton senior Owen Belanger scrambles past Marblehead defenders. (Photos/Owen Jones)
Mike Montalvo tackles the North Attleborough ballcarrier.
(Photo/Evan Walsh)
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor
HUDSON
– For the second year in a row, the Hudson Hawks are advancing to the MIAA Division 6 semifinals.
Hudson defeated the Sandwich Blue Knights on Nov. 15 to the tune of 28-21.
“That was the first team to really put us to the test, and our guys answered that challenge,” Coach Zac Attaway said. “I’m super proud of them. We don’t want to stop here.”
After a scoreless first quarter, Sandwich drew the first blood, though the Hawks quickly tied it with a pass from Jake Attaway to Toby Edie. Passes from Attaway to Cooper Stuhr and later to Owen Nanartowich added two additional touchdowns, and Attaway scored a fourth.
Coach Attaway called it a “very emotional win.”
“It was the last time the seniors are going to play in the Morgan Bowl. So, I think it carries a little more hype to it,” he said.
Hudson will face off against Norwell in the semifinals.
Attaway said that energy will need to be high next week, and it will be a “big week” of preparation.
Left: Hudson High School football team poses for a photo after beating Sandwich.
Bottom left: Nolan Yates dodges Sandwich defenders.
Bottom right: Jake Attaway runs past Sandwich defenders.
(Photos/Laura Hayes)
Northborough - New Construction. 5 bedrooms and 4 full bathrooms, 3 car garage. Quality craftmanship. Located near Cold Harbor Brook. Move-in ready condition.
$1,800,000
Northborough - Colonial home with 4 bedrooms & 2.5 bathrooms. Central air & gas heat. In-ground pool with professional landscaping. Located in neighborhood. $850,000
Shrewsbury - One of a kind updated Colonial home with 5 BRs, 3 baths & 14 rooms total. Zoned for mixed use, office w/reception area, studio and separate entrance. Close to an acre. 3 car garage. $1,300,000
Northborough - Located in sought-after tree lined neighborhood. Cape style home with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Finished basement. Updated deck & patio with fenced in yard. $875,000
Northborough - Located in sought after Over 55 Community Intervale Farms this Cape style home has 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms and three season room. $625,000
