SHREWSBURY – By a 123-50 margin, Town Meeting voted on Nov. 18 to approve Article 9, establishing a “Transit Oriented Development Overlay District,” or MBTA zoning district, in the southeast corner of town along Route 20.
After a roughly two-hour-long debate that went late into the night — and included a successful motion that struck language regarding mixed-use zoning — Town Meeting members approved a contiguous, 118-acre zone that contains three main parcels: Shrewsbury Commons, 409 South Street, and Emerald Run.
Northborough adopts single tax rate of $14.25
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor
NORTHBOROUGH – The Select Board voted to adopt a single tax rate of $14.25 during its Nov. 18 meeting.
The fiscal 2025 values were based on property values as of Jan. 1. According to Principal Assessor Lee Keomanivong, overall, Northborough’s property values increased by 6% from $4.26 billion to $4.5 billion.
Northborough experienced $36,692,719 in new growth value, including seven new single-family homes, one new two-family structure, two new warehouses, two new retail buildings and several major renovation
The Westborough Rangers are now back-to-back-to-back MIAA Division 2 champions. (Photo/Owen Jones Photography/Jones Photo)
By Evan Walsh Reporter
BILLERICA – Holding the ball out in front of her, Teeghan Patch crept forward to deliver a serve in the season’s biggest moment.
Just moments prior, Westborough seemed destined to win the championship. The Rangers won two of the first three sets, and after pulling ahead 19-16, they sat a mere six points away from hoisting the trophy. But second-ranked Oliver Ames fought back — hard. With their season on the line, the Tigers won eight of the next 10 points — including going on a 5-0 run — to make the set 24-21.
Now, it was Westborough that had to battle back — or risk a fifth set with a red-hot Oliver Ames squad. Off the serve of Sam Norman, the Rangers took a 2625 lead. It was left to Patch, one of the team’s nine seniors, to seal the deal. Her confident serve forced a poor return, the
ball flying out of play as Westborough’s players swarmed one another to celebrate the championship win.
After a year of competition, the Westborough volleyball dynasty continues.
“It’s spectacular. I’m thrilled beyond comprehension. I’m really, really happy,” said Westborough Head Coach Roger Anderson. “For this group, it’s special because at the beginning of the year nobody thought we could do this. I think that makes it really special. They worked hard every day, and they earned it. I mean we had to earn it against Oliver Ames because they played fantastic today.”
The championship-game win — earned at Billerica Memorial High School on Nov. 16 — gave Westborough its third consecutive MIAA Division 2 championship, something that’s never happened in school history. Captained by Mia Grandin, Norman, and Georgia Tyrrell, the team finished the season at 21-1, winning 63 of
Volleyball | 27
Blue Square Pizza to expand into Northborough Neary Building Committee holds tour of school northborough | 7
Southborough | 18
Stay up to date with all the news!
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)
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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.
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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
MBTA zoning | from page 1 587 existing units, while 40B projects at Emerald Run and 409 South Street are expected to add another 498 units to the MBTA zone.
Under the 2021 MBTA Communities Act, Shrewsbury must zone for 1,497 housing units, which is equal to 10% of the town’s current housing stock. The approved zone can accommodate 1,512 units. The town leveraged pre-existing and soon-to-be-existing density to limit potential development. Shrewsbury Commons has
“We’re not changing what’s already going to happen to us anyhow, because the 40B is already there. … These projects are going in regardless of what we do tonight, so I think it’s important to vote for this,” said
Town Meeting member Donna O’Connor.
If Shrewsbury had not passed the zoning by Dec. 31, it would have lost access to approximately 13 discretionary grants. Shrewsbury has utilized roughly $5 million in related grants over the last 12 years to fund “significant” improvements in town.
Appointed Planning Board
Article 10 — a citizens’ petition to create an elected Planning Board — was voted down by Town Meeting.
Lead petitioner Gregg Richards and roughly 180 residents brought the petition after identifying what they described as a “series of decisions and pattern of behavior” from the current appointed Planning Board that
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warranted a change.
“Residents shared they’re concerned with ongoing developments in town — the impact to the character of Shrewsbury and their quality of lives. They’re frustrated with feeling like they’re not being heard when providing feedback and opinions to their appointed leaders, and they’re troubled with potential future developments that may prevent them from staying in their homes due to potential tax burdens,” said Richards.
Town Meeting members were skeptical about the change, voicing concern about changing a system of government that the town has had in place since 1953. Since July 2017, 26 individuals have submitted 37 applications for the Planning Board. Town Manager Kevin Mizikar has made eight appointments to the body.
DPW facility design
The effort to renovate the town’s Department of Public Works facility cleared its first significant hurdle. At Town Meeting, the town voted to appropriate $2 million to fund preliminary design work for the expansion and renovation of the facilities at 207-211 South Street.
Formed in April, the Municipal Facilities Optimization Committee (MFOC) was tasked with evaluating the DPW facilities. The committee recommended a $26.8 million plan; $5.5 million was later added for work to Town Hall, including HVAC upgrades and asbestos removal.
“Our team … has been hard at work developing a sustainable, efficient, and most importantly, functional solution to address the building condition and space needs at both locations,” said MFOC Chair Patrick Pitney.
“From the outset, we prioritized function over form … The current facilities are severely outdated and inadequate for modern operations, yet they house essential services that impact every resident, business, and visitor in our community,” he continued.
Plans call for the 1950s-era, 11,000-square-foot Water and Sewer Garage to be demolished; the 30,000-square-foot Highway Garage would be renovated, and a 21,600-square-foot addition would be added onto the building. The new facility would include on-site office space for DPW employees.
1 businesses are tenants.
and addition projects.
The tax levy is $64,378,721.
Single tax rate
Every year, the Select Board must determine the percentage of the tax levy to be paid by the property classes and decide between two options — a single tax rate in which all classes would be taxed at the same rate or a split tax rate where the residential property class’ share would decrease while the combined share of commercial, industrial and personal property (CIP) increases. The Select Board unanimously approved a single tax rate of $14.25.
According to Keomanivong, for an average single-family property valued at $664,045, the average tax bill will be $9,463. This is an increase of $564 from fiscal 2024, but it is a decrease from the original projected tax increase of $616.
The tax on the average commercial property is expected to increase by $871 to an average of $23,572 from the previous fiscal year.
“It’s good news because the body at Town Meeting approved a budget increase that everybody knew would cost them an additional $616 for an average single-family house, but the same budget is actually coming in better than that at $546,” said Chair Mitch Cohen. “It’s the right direction that we would want to go relative to an early estimate.”
Keomanivong said that compared to neighboring communities, Northborough’s single-family tax bill typically falls around that of Shrewsbury and Grafton. According to his presentation, in fiscal 2024, the average single-family tax bill in Shrewsbury was $8,261, followed by Grafton at $8,532, Northborough at $8,917, Westborough at $11,680 and Southborough at $12,427.
Keomanivong discussed the “pros” and “cons” of a split tax rate. The “pros,” he said, is that it would offer residential property owners tax relief. However, the “cons” are that it would shift a greater burden onto higher-valued CIP properties that already pay a large portion of the levy, it is not seen as “business friendly,” higher commercial taxes can reduce commercial values over time and increases are typically passed onto tenants and the majority of Northborough
During the meeting, Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of MetroWest President/CEO Karen Chapman advocated for maintaining the single tax rate.
“Under your current single tax structure, Northborough has prospered through the development and growth of businesses, which has led to new jobs and tax revenue in your town,” she said.
Chapman said the chamber held ribbon cuttings for six small businesses in that opened in town, and a single rate is a “positive tool” to help attract new businesses.
Several board members noted that Hudson has a split tax rate. According to the town’s website, Hudson’s residential tax rate is $14 with the average single-family home valued at $555,573, and its CIP rate is $27.50.
The split rate has been in place since at least 1994, according to the website.
Select Board member Laura Ziton said that her gut reaction was to maintain the single tax rate.
“I like the idea of Hudson,” she said. “I think they had their Business Improvement District, but I think that would be something that we would need
to have our economic development committee do first to really lay out the groundwork because I know that Hudson did some really creative things for their businesses when COVID hit. But, I think for right now my preference is to do more research on it other than just shifting the burden.”
She said she hoped the board could find other ways to save money on taxes for residents.
The Select Board also did not opt to adopt an open space discount, residential exemption or small commercial exemption.
WESTBOROUGH – The Westborough Community Chorus will present its annual winter concert, “Winter Festival,” on Friday, Dec. 6, at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 7, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 8, at 2 p.m. at Gibbons Middle School, 20 Fisher St.
The chorus, under the direction of William Goliger, is presenting an array of wintertime and holiday favorites, past and present. Audiences can expect to hear the chorus perform classic arrangements of “Sleigh Ride,” “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” and “Grown-Up Christmas List,” as well as some new pieces, including a medley of songs from the popular film “A Muppet Christmas Carol” and “Sparklejollytwinklejingley” from “Elf the Musical.”
Finally, popular songs such as Pentatonix’s “That’s Christmas to Me,” Megan Trainor’s “Kid on Christmas” and “A Marshmallow World” round out the full chorus’ repertoire.
Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for seniors/children/students. In addition to being available at the door, tickets can be purchased online at westborocommunitychorus.com; at David French Music, 53 Otis St.; and at Music & Arts in Baystate Commons.
Wart treatment achieves 90% success rate
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.
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MWRTA plan would provide affordable transport to and from commuter rails
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – Imagine stepping off the commuter rail in Bellingham and wanting to travel to somewhere in Southborough. The current options are limited — pick up a bus through the MetroWest Regional Transit Authority and bounce around a few routes; get a ride with a friend or relative; or hire an Uber or Lyft.
A proposal from the MetroWest Regional Transit Authority (MWRTA) could provide an option that’s quicker and potentially less expensive. Administrator Jim Nee presented a proposal to the 495/MetroWest Partnership Transportation Committee on Thursday, Nov. 7.
According to Nee, the current commuter rail system runs east-west, with few public transportation options for north-south travel.
The proposal would help connect communities along Route 495 corridor by con -
necting the regional transit authorities.
The MWRTA is working on what Nee called “a piece of the concept” — Route 11, between the South Acton and Franklin commuter rail stations. The route connects with the commuter rail stations in Fitchburg, Framingham/Worcester and Franklin.
The connections would be made by bus, on what’s known as a “single-seat” program. That means once on board, the passenger would not need to transfer to another bus.
Local communities covered under the proposed route would include Marlborough, Hudson and Southborough. Although it’s called the 495 Connector, the route would be mainly along Route 85.
The MWRTA applied for a grant through the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, which is under review.
Should the entire proposal be approved, it would “be quite large and expensive, but beneficial” to commuters, said Nee.
495/Turnpike update
During the same meeting, the Transportation Committee provided updates on the I-495/I-90 interchange project.
Work on the Fruit Street bridge continues. Traffic, which is restricted to one lane with a traffic light, has been shifted to the newly constructed portion
of the bridge. The remaining part of the old bridge will be torn down and reconstructed. Officials said it will be another year before the bridge is completed.
Also, the first of the new ramps is scheduled to open by the middle of this month. Ramp ES connects the eastbound lane of the turnpike to Route 495
southbound.
The project, which is scheduled to be completed in 2027, is designed to help reduce travel times and traffic congestion within the interchange.
To stay updated on the project, visit https://www.mass. gov/i-495i-90-interchangeimprovements
Westborough celebrates Kindness Week
Positive Thinking
As part of the annual Kindness Week sponsored by Westborough Connects on Tuesday, Nov. 12, Elise Kaye Gifts offered an opportunity for visitors to create bookmarks. (Photo/ Maureen Sullivan)
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.
Central Mass. Festival Chorus to perform Nov. 24
AUBURN – The Central Massachusetts Festival Chorus will be performing its inaugural concert entitled “Songs of the Season” on Nov. 24 at 2 p.m. at Bethel Lutheran Church in Auburn.
The chorus was created by Jane Shivick, director, and Matt Jaskot, pianist, in September.
cost $15 at the door.
Sponsored by Chief Joseph Robert J. Terkanian, P.O.
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.
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – History has always been part of Anthony Vaver’s life.
“History has just always been,” he said. “It’s important to me, to understand the world.”
On Thursday, Nov. 7, Vaver closed a chapter in his history, as he steps down as the local history librarian for the Westborough Public Library.
“Vaver played a transformative role in organizing and digitizing Westborough’s historical records, establishing the Westborough Center for History and Culture within the library as a vital community resource for research and preservation,” the library said in a press release.
Although he was never trained as a historian, Vaver found himself in such a position about 10 years ago.
“They were renovating Town Hall, and the town clerk discovered these boxes of his-
torical records,” said Vaver.
“The town clerk approached Maureen [Amyot, the library director at the time], and Maureen contacted Digital Commonwealth. They said the records were just the kind to digitalize, but they needed organization.”
Amyot then approached Vaver, who was then on the Board of Library Trustees, and
asked if he would be interested.
“I had just finished a book project, and I had some time,” he said.
Vaver first became local history librarian on a volunteer basis; he now gets paid, thanks to a request made by Amyot at Town Meeting.
Over the past decade, Vaver has overseen the town’s historical collections.
“We’ve been very fortunate. Westborough has its town records, and we also have Ebenezer Parkman’s diaries,” he said.
Vaver has done more than making sure historical records have a good home. He has overseen the digitalization of records, and “creating new ways of working with local history,” he said.
The creation of the center itself was a new approach.
“In many communities, the records are locked away and inaccessible,” he said. “I want the collection to be used, to be seen. The Westborough Center is finally in a solid and unique place to develop and define new ways to practice local history.”
Vaver also helped secure grants for projects such as Scanning Day; establishing a photographer-in-residence program; and collaborating on the Ebenezer Parkman Project, which offers one of the most complete portrayals of a rural colonial town in the United States.
With Vaver’s departure, Adult Services Librarian Tracey Graham will be the point person for the collection. Vaver will continue as a consultant. To learn more about the Westborough Center for History and Culture, visit https:// www.westboroughlibrary. org/departments-programs/ westborough-center-for-history-and-culture/
Golf Club building denied, sent back to Select Board
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – After a request to borrow funds for the Westborough Golf Club building project was rejected at Town Meeting, the project is heading back to the Select Board.
During its meeting on Thursday, Nov. 14, the Municipal Building Committee voted to refer the project back to the board for further instruction.
“We saw the feelings of the town” at Town Meeting, said Chair Al Gordon.
Over the past several months, a team from Bechtel Frank Erickson Architects Inc. (BFE) conducted a feasibility study that explored two options to renovate and rebuild the golf club building. Both options included space for a restaurant.
In October, a warrant article requesting funds to borrow $200,000 for schematic designs, and to obtain a restaurant consultant and owners project manager was defeated.
Committee members said the project failed to gain support because of a lack of clarity about a possible restaurant, and some miscommunication about how the project would be paid.
During Town Meeting, some residents said they were concerned that the project would drain the Golf Club En-
terprise Fund, which is used to maintain the course and pro shop.
“There was definitely some disconnect on paying for that [project],” said committee member James S. Stewart.
“It’s the right thing to put back” the project to the board, said Ian Johnson, who is the Select Board’s representative to the committee.
While most of the building remains vacant, the town is providing basic maintenance, and the pro shop “is fine and functional,” said Johnson. However, Gordon said something needs to be done about the building soon.
“The building’s in tough shape,” he said. “Something in the near future has to happen.”
Gordon proposed an open house to allow residents to see the condition of the building for themselves.
“We got some good information,” said Rod Shaffert, the Advisory Finance Committee’s representative to the Municipal Building Committee. “There’s still an opportunity to figure out what could work. I’d hate to lose the momentum.”
Town Manager Kristi Williams said that $32,000 is still available to conduct further study.
Learn more about the project at https://ma-westborough. civicplus.com/1219/Westborough-Golf-Club-Building
Anthony Vaver recently stepped down as the local historian librarian. (Photo/Maureen Sullivan)
Still time to purchase wreath for Wreaths Across America
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor
NORTHBOROUGH – Susan Welton is participating in Wreaths Across America for her husband, who served during the Vietnam War, and all of the other veterans in town.
“It’s amazing to bring the community together,” she said. “People have come out of the woodwork.”
During the Northboro Junior Woman’s Club craft fair, Vietnam veterans came up to Welton, thanking her for helping to bring Wreaths Across America to Northborough.
“If I can bring a smile to someone’s face like that — absolutely. The community has
been phenomenal, absolutely phenomenal,” said Welton.
In 2017, Welton and Martha Michalewich were part of a group that traveled to Arlington National Cemetery for the
Wreaths Across America event.
Michalewich said that it was so moving that they have subsequently gone to other events, including at Boylston last year.
“We were walking away
SELCO recognized as smart energy provider
SHREWSBURY – Shrewsbury Electric & Cable Operations (SELCO) has earned a Smart Energy Provider (SEP) designation from the American Public Power Association for demonstrating a commitment to and proficiency in energy efficiency, distributed generation, and environmental initiatives that support the goal of providing safe, reliable, low-cost, and sustainable electric service.
The designation was awarded on Oct. 28 in Louisville, Kentucky, during APPA’s annual Customer Connections Conference.
“The SELCO team is proud to be recognized as a utility leading the way on smart energy best practices,” said Christopher Roy, General Manager of SELCO. “The energy sector is continuously evolving and this SEP designation is a reflection of our commitment to offer the best programs to achieve the goals of affordable, efficient, and clean energy.”
SELCO joins more than 100 public power utilities nationwide that hold the SEP designation.
The SEP designation, which lasts for three years through 2027, recognizes public power utilities for demonstrating leading practices in four key disciplines: smart energy program structure; energy efficiency and distributed energy resources programs; environmental and sustainability initiatives; and customer experience.
“SEP-designated utilities have demonstrated their leadership in smart energy
programs and services,” said Chair of the SEP Review Panel Erin Miller. “This designation celebrates utilities that are committed to serving their customers while taking
the extra step to plan for the future. Communities served by utilities that have earned the SEP designation should be proud of their utility’s accomplishments.”
from Boylston and Susan said, ‘I would love to do this in Northborough,’ and I said, ‘Why don’t we?’” Michalewich recalled.
Michalewich and Welton are members of the Northboro Junior Woman’s Club. The club partnered with Boros Cares 4 Troops and the Vincent F. Picard American Legion Post 234 on the project.
According to BC4T founder Karen Brewster, the organization had been considering participating in Wreaths Across America for years. Northborough had previously been a pitstop in the annual truck convoy, said BC4T founder Michelle Gillespie.
“It was very moving just to see the trucks,” she said.
When Welton approached Brewster about partnering for the project, Brewster said they were on board.
“We try to do as many veterans affairs and functions as possible. Anything that Karen comes up with, we’re usually behind her,” said Post 234 Commander Edgar Blanchette.
This fall, the groups began
publicizing the program, and Michalewich said it’s going “magnificently.” According to Northborough’s official Wreaths Across America page, 952 wreaths have been sponsored, which is 19% over their goal of 800 wreaths. If more wreaths are sponsored than there are graves, they will be able to bank the contributions for next year, said Michalewich.
On Dec. 14 in Howard Street Cemetery at noon, the wreaths will be laid on veterans’ graves. Only wreaths through Wreaths Across America can be placed that day. Participants will be able to park at Zeh Elementary School and Church of the Nativity.
They invite community members to help lay wreaths. Volunteers will also be needed to help pick them up in January. Wreaths can still be sponsored by visiting https:// www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/pages/180924/ Overview/?relatedId=180921. Wreaths can be purchased through Dec. 3.
ENERGY & INTEREST
Michelle Gillespie, Martha Michalewich, Leslie Arsenault, Edgar Blanchette, Max Strickland, Karen Brewster and Susan Welton pose for a photo. (Photo/ Laura Hayes)
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®
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College alumni clubs
Exercise instruction
Book & cinema club
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Trips off campus
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COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
Neary Building Committee holds tour for public input
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor
SOUTHBOROUGH – Last week, community members had a chance to tour Neary Elementary School as town leaders eye a potential project to construct a new four-grade school.
Tours were held on Nov. 12 and 16. Superintendent Greg Martineau said the tours went well.
Martineau and Neary Building Committee (MBC) Chair Jason Malinowski said that attendees asked questions around the conditions, a new facility and cost.
“Our challenge is making sure that we’re getting everyone the right information, and also having increased attendance,” said Malinowski. “We’re looking to find ways to get our message out and meet people where they’re at and want to be met on the project.”
The Community Advocate
toured Neary, which was built in 1970, with Martineau. He showed doors to restrooms that were not compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act; the gym which is divided into two, making it hard to run physical education programming and modular classrooms used by two classes. There’s also asbestos in the floor and portions of the walls in the classrooms and ceilings.
The kitchen is not functional, and, as a result, the food is cooked at Trottier Middle School and then brought to Neary.
During past Neary Building Committee meetings, members have said that a fourgrade model would move students away from transitioning to a new school every two years.
What could be done to solve
issues with Neary began with 12 options, which were then narrowed to three. In August, the Neary Building Committee voted to move forward with an option to construct a new fourgrade school. At that time, the project was estimated to cost $113.4 million with Southborough’s share projected to be $83.4 million and a maximum grant through the Massachusetts School Building Author-
ity (MSBA) eyed at $30 million. According to Malinowski, since the August vote, a more precise design is being worked on. NBC also met with the MSBA Board of Directors, who approved the preferred schematic report. According to Martineau, the project is now moving into the schematic design phase.
“There’s ongoing meetings with educators of how to design the space, etc., which will ultimately lead to another cost estimate,” he said.
The Sustainability Subcommittee is also studying different systems that could be put in. MSBA’s official vote on the project is expected to come on April 30. An affirmative vote would give Southborough to go-ahead to go to Town Meeting for local approval on May 10 at Algonquin Regional High School. The project could then be on the ballot on May 13.
Malinowski said the NBC’s biggest question is what information do people need to make a decision.
In addition to the tours, committee members have gone to the Senior Center and met with elementary school-aged parents to field questions. Each of their lines of questions are slightly different, said Malinowski.
“We’re hearing a range. Some people have their mind made up one way or another. Others have really good questions,” he said. “We think we know the questions, but we don’t know. I think that’s the biggest thing — we have some time to get ahead of and study and make sure we have answers to so that people can make an informed decision.”
For more information, including a FAQ, visit https:// www.nearybuilding.com/.
A look inside Neary. The photo on the left is one of the modular classrooms. The photo in the center shows the door to the women’s restroom. School district staff say it is not compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The photo on the right shows the music room. (Photos/Laura Hayes)
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.
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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
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.
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.
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.
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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)
Volleyball | from page 1
72 sets. Seventeen of this year’s wins were three-set sweeps.
“It feels amazing,” said Norman while holding the Massachusetts-shaped trophy alongside her fellow captains.
“We’re so happy to do it with each other. We went into this just being happy to make our season as long as possible. … We’re so proud of each other.”
“We’re all soaking it all in. We’re very happy to be here with each other,” said Grandin. “It’s a great way to end the season.”
Westborough opened the all-important match in typical (dominant) fashion; the Rangers never trailed throughout the first frame, taking the opening set 25-19. But, after a couple of mishaps, Westborough fell behind in the second set, with Oliver Ames leading 12-6, 17-11, 19-13, and, finally, 25-18. The Rangers, who had swept every playoff game to that point, huddled around Anderson during intermission as the Oliver Ames’ crowd roared. Anderson’s message to the
players was succinct — stay composed.
“If there was a theme for the day, it was composure. We got a little slippery in set two and made a few more mistakes than we would’ve liked, but we turned it around and pulled it back afterward. Down 24-21 in the fourth set, it takes some courage to do that,” said Anderson. “And we did. We got right back into it.”
In the subsequent sets, Tyr-
rell took over. The outside hitter notched 26 kills during the championship match, leading her team to a 25-21 third-set win and making several huge plays down the stretch to help the Rangers steal the fourth.
The thread connecting each of the three title-winning teams, Tyrrell ends her volleyball career in Westborough as one of the greats.
“Georgia has played exceptional volleyball this year.
I have not seen anybody who has played better volleyball than her. You can’t do it alone in our sport, so certainly it’s the connection with Sam [Norman], our setter, and the ability of our team to get the ball to the place it needs to be. However, she is a very, very good volleyball player,” said Anderson.
“[The win] feels amazing. I’m really, really excited about it. I was kind of hoping I could get three, so I’m happy it worked out,” said Tyrrell. “I was saying this to other people too, but I think it’s also sad knowing that the season is over. It was a big part of my life for a while. It’s tough, but it’s really amazing to end on such an amazing note.”
The team had to work for this one, but it didn’t seem to bother Tyrrell.
“That’s part of what made it so fun. Obviously winning in three sets is amazing and it’s been fun, but really being challenged it kind of makes the win feel all the better. We worked for it,” she said.
Another championship is
also a feather in Anderson’s cap. A member of the Massachusetts Girls Volleyball Coaches Association Hall of Fame, Anderson has led Westborough into the playoffs each of the last 25 years; he’s won championships in 2007, 2017, 2022, 2023, and now, 2024. Including his success as Westborough’s boys outdoor track coach, he has won four state championships in the last two calendar years.
Ask Anderson about it, and he’ll give everyone else the credit.
“It’s because of the great kids that come to play for us. It’s the awesome assistant coaches,” he said. “It’s a series of role models — these players looked up to the kids from past years, and now, there’s another generation coming behind them.”
With all the success, the rafters are getting crowded in Westborough. That’s not a bad problem to have.
“We know exactly where [the banner’s] going to go,” said Anderson.
Head Coach Roger Anderson speaks to his squad after the match. (Photo/Owen Jones)
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