New Sartorius center opened in Marlborough
marlborough | 5
Students honored for academic achievement
marlborough | 28
Marlborough Hudson
By Evan Walsh Reporter
By Sarah Freedman Contributing Writer
HUDSON — Work on wastewater pump stations can begin in town with the passage of Article 5 at the 2024 November Special Town Meeting.
On Nov. 18, Hudson residents voted to approve the borrowing of funds to upgrade the town’s pump stations. Article 5 called for borrowing $6.71 million for the purpose of engineering services, replacement, rehabilitation and installation of equipment and facility upgrade within the wastewater pump stations in town.
At a Oct. 15 Finance Committee meeting, Director of the Department of Public Works Eric Ryder said the work had been delayed by the pandemic, and after speaking to Executive Assistant Tom Gregory, he explained the need to jump on these upgrades.
The pump stations in question were the Johnson Avenue Station, which would have $1.318 million of work done; the Farina and Municipal Drive pump stations, which would both have $1.55 million of work; the Central Street pump station, which would have $853,000 of work; and the Avon pump station, which would have $900,000 of work.
At Town Meeting, he said that the pump stations range from 30 to 40 years old, and upgrades are done with the guidance of an asset management program. The five aforementioned pump stations are “the most critical sta-
HUDSON – Don’t measure Liv Connolly by her height; measure her by her heart.
A 4-foot-11-inch Hudson High School sophomore, Connolly is familiar with being the shortest person on the field — it’s something she laughs about with those who know her best. And while she’s “on the short side,” Connolly nonetheless manages to be someone teammates and coaches look up to.
“Honestly, I never see [height] as a weakness of hers because I think her heart truly takes over her actual size,” said Head Softball Coach Laura Bowen. “You see athletes that have the build and the size, but if they don’t have the heart and determination, they’re probably not going anywhere. She plays with that all-in mentality. She’s going to give you everything she has. Her size doesn’t affect her at all … She never uses it as an excuse.”
New kid on the block
Connolly began playing field hockey and
City mulls next steps to control rodent population
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
MARLBOROUGH – Now that the six-month pilot program with Modern Pest Solutions has concluded, the city’s Board of Health is considering the next steps to control the rodent population.
In February, Mayor J. Christian Dumais
announced a program to deal with the rodents. From April through October, Modern Pest Solutions set up bait boxes to trap and exterminate rodents. According to Director of Public Health Paul Dinwoodie, 215 rodents were captured and killed.
With the end of the pilot program, Dinwoodie said, “Now we’re just trying to look
Connolly | 35
Liv Connolly is a member of Hudson High School’s field hockey and softball teams. (Photo/Evan Walsh)
WESTBOROUGH – Residents flocked to downtown Westborough on Dec. 1 for the annual tree lighting, light parade and Holiday Stroll. For more photos, see pg. 22 or communityadvocate.com. (Photo/Tami White)
The Community Advocate’s Policy on Letters to the Editor Letters must be signed with a name, address and telephone number for verification (only name and town will be printed). Letters should be sent to news@communityadvocate.com or mailed to Managing Editor c/o Community Advocate, 32 South St. Westborough MA 01581. The editor reserves the right to reject letters on the basis of length, libelous content, suitability and space constraints. Multiple letters from the same person will not be accepted within a 30 day period. “Form letter” submissions, in which the content of one letter is essentially duplicated, will not be accepted. Letters should be 350 words or less. Deadline is 12 p.m. Friday the week before publication. Opinions expressed in the letters to the editor do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Community Advocate management or its advertisers.
PUBLISHER/EDITOR: David Bagdon
ASSISTANT
REPORTER: Evan Walsh
ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT:
Barbara Clifford | 508.769.6259
Cynthia Merchant | 508.736.4332
Diane Sabatini | 508.366.5500
Mary Ellen Cyganiewicz | 508.366.5500 ext. 17
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
CORRECTION – An error appeared in the article “Marlborough braces for possible AMSA enrollment increase” which published in the November 22, 2024 edition of the Community Advocate.
The sentence “According to AMSA leaders, the proposed enrollment would help them obtain more funds to operate the school.” While this may be factually true that additional funds would be used to operate the school, this could be read that it was a motivation for the enrollment increase. According to AMSA, the request to expand was based on demand, as evidenced by their robust waitlist. We sincerely regret any inference that the request to increase enrollment was financially driven.
Later in the article, we reported that Lisa Mobley Ed.D, Executive Director of AMSA, spoke in support of a “weighted” option when asked about her preference for “weighted” vs. “lottery” admission to AMSA.
Dr. Mobley did not agree with this representation and sought to clarify the comment by stating “I recollect that I said that a weighted lottery is one way to increase specific underrepresented populations. I would never choose a side with this topic as a weighted lottery could exclude a special population that AMSA serves.”
We accept responsibility for any confusion created by our reporting and will continue in our mission to maintain clarity and fairness.
Storing Wine
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.
Properly storing wine helps preserve its quality and flavor, allowing it to mature gracefully. The ideal storage temperature for wine is between 45°F and 65°F, with 55°F being optimal. Fluctuating temperatures can damage the wine, so a stable, controlled environment is crucial. Wine should also be kept away from direct sunlight and fluorescent light, because UV rays can degrade the wine and alter its taste. Humidity is another factor; around 70% humidity prevents corks from drying out, which could let air into the bottle and spoil the wine. To keep the cork moist and to avoid oxidation, wine bottles should ideally be stored on their sides. Vibrations should also be minimized, as constant movement can disturb sediment in older wines.
Each member of the staff at JULIO’S LIQUORS is friendly, passionate, and knowledgeable about wines. Collectively, we have many decades of experience and knowledge to offer our customers. We sincerely enjoy talking about wine and strive to bring a personalized experience to each individual that shop with us. We cater to all levels of experience and take pleasure in encouraging all our customers to learn more about wine and feel excited about their purchases. Stop by our store at 140 Turnpike Rd., Rt. 9 East and take a look at our great selection! Call 508-366-1942
FOR
P.S. Careful storage helps maintain and enhance a wine’s characteristics, whether in a wine cellar, fridge, or cool, dark space.
WCRN AM830
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
THIS HOLIDAY TRAVEL LIKE A
At Worcester Regional Airport, everyone is a Very Important Passenger.
Whether you’re packing your bags for the beaches of Fort Lauderdale, excitement of Orlando, relaxation of Fort Myers* or the bright lights of New York City, we’ll get you there. Affordable parking at $7/day or $42/week. Just 3 miles from downtown Worcester. For more travel info, visit FlyWorcester.com
*Seasonal Service
Marlborough celebrates opening of new Sartorius center
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor
MARLBOROUGH – Sartorius Stedim Biotech officially opened its new Center for Bioprocess Innovation in Marlborough.
“The Greater Boston area is home to an unparalleled ecosystem that fosters innovation, collaboration, and growth. As a global hub for biotechnology and life sciences, it offers access to world-renowned academic institutions, cutting-edge research facilities, and a highly skilled workforce. Moreover, the region’s robust network of venture capital firms and industry partnerships provides ample opportunities for strategic collaborations. This is an ideal time and a great place to launch these capabilities which are so critical to the success of our customers,” said President of Sartorius North America Maurice Phelan.
As officials gathered at the new center at 200 Donald Lynch Boulevard on Nov. 21, Phelan noted that they went
Center for Bioprocess Equipment in 2021.
Secretary of Economic Development Yvonne Hao recalled that Phelan visited her soon after she assumed the role. The pair talked about the idea for the Marlborough site.
“It is truly impressive to see it come to life,” said Hao.
She said it takes a team ef-
fort of Team Massachusetts, Team Sartorius and Team Marlborough to make it happen. Sartorius and the state are doing this work because they care about making the world a better place and helping people live better lives and saving lives, she said.
“Touring these facilities and seeing the work you’re doing,
Your Money, Your Independence
you’re on the cutting edge. … All of these wicked smart people here in this company are doing things to help us accelerate drug discovery, accelerate cures for diseases, making sure that things are safer and better and faster. This is really important work, and this is what we do in Massachusetts,” Hao said.
Holiday Cheer and Roth Conversions: A Gift to Your Future Self
Ah, the holiday season… a time for joy, gratitude and (unfortunately) for some the ritual of cramming late nights to ensure they don’t pay more in taxes than necessary now and in retirement.
Sure, they could be planning for family get-togethers, attending holiday parties with friends or enjoying eggnog by the fire. But no, that’s all too festive and cheerful.
before the City Council a year prior to discuss the project and work on the tax increment financing agreement.
Phelan thanked Mayor J. Christian Dumais, City Council President Michael Ossing and former Mayor Arthur Vigeant. Dumais said he was happy to support the TIF last year while serving as a member of the City Council.
“The city and [Marlborough Economic Development Corporation] were eager to partner with Sartorius last year … on advancing the TIF to help make this project a reality within Marlborough,” said Dumais.
The Donald Lynch Boulevard center is 63,000 square feet. It includes research and service laboratories and facilities for demonstrations and training for customers. It will be able to accommodate over 120 internal and external bioprocessing experts.
This is the third Sartorius site in Marlborough. The company acquired WaterSep BioSeparations in 2020 and opened a Customer Interaction
Instead, they build spreadsheets, search IRS interpretations, and obsess about miscalculating their household adjusted gross income (AGI) and threshold $ amount to convert to a Roth IRA. Then when the time comes to execute the conversion, there is a feeling of dread. Like that of being outside in the freezing cold and “tripled dog-dared” to stick their tongue to a metal pole.
Let’s discuss a better (and safer) way.
What Is a Roth Conversion?
At its core, Roth conversion is like wrapping up retirement savings into a tidy, tax-advantaged gift package. You take funds from a traditional IRA or 401(k) — accounts taxed when you withdraw in retirement — and convert them into a Roth IRA. In doing so, you pay taxes on the converted amount now at your income brackets.
However, once in a Roth, it gifts:
• Tax-free growth
• Tax-free withdrawals in retirement
• Removal of Required Minimum Distributions
• Tax-free distributions for non-spousal beneficiaries
Make Modeling a Roth Conversion Joyous
Just as giving perfect holiday gifts require planning, so does Roth conversion.
In working with clients, ideally we build or update their Roth conversion model in February or March using prior year data with intentions of waiting until December to run again with actual tax data and execute.
Beyond the adage “measure twice, cut once” and making it less stressful during the holidays, this provides readiness for opportunities. One such example is converting in a steep market decline during the year. If you’re going to hang onto the same security/ strategy, why not convert some at a lower value
(equals less taxation) and allow for time to bring price recovery inside the Roth IRA instead?
How You Model Makes a Difference
Modeling a Roth conversion is like preparing a delicious holiday feast — attention to detail and coordinated foresight can make all the difference. Beyond current tax situation, age, goals, and cash to pay taxes, there are several future questions to answer in analysis.
In the near-term, will future years have lower taxable earnings to more favorably convert? Will your state of residence change and if so, does your taxation change? What are projected growth rates for Roth, are they more aggressive? Should they be? For retirement, have you projected RMDs at age 73 (75) and resulting new tax bracket? Does conversion help or hurt Social Security and Medicare taxation? What’s your expectation of future taxation by governments?
What are your estate planning wishes?
Respect The Grinch
The pro-rata rule. When converting, the IRS combines all traditional IRA balances and asks about nondeductible contributions, as this portion is not taxable. Understand the IRS doesn’t allow for conversion of just after-tax money.
It is what it is. Once a Roth Conversion is done, it’s done, as IRS no longer lets you unwind (recharacterize).
Not all-or-nothing. You can develop a plan to spread conversions over several years, even skip a year or two as needed pending AGI levels and ability to pay the IRS with non-IRA assets.
The Gift of Time and Independence
Consistent and well-timed Roth conversions can be the gifts that keeps on giving — tax-free growth, tax-free withdrawals, and the peace of mind that comes with control.
May the holiday season bring you good cheer and health throughout the coming year.
The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.
Glenn Brown lives in MetroWest and is owner of PlanDynamic, LLC, www.PlanDynamic.com. He is a fee-only Certified Financial Planner™ helping motivated people take control of their planning and investing, so they can balance kids, aging parents and financial independence.
Mayor J. Christian Dumais, CEO of Sartorius Stedim Biotech René Fáber, President of Sartorius North America Maurice Phelan and Secretary of Economic Development Yvonne Hao gather to celebrate the ribbon cutting.
Sartorius staff led a tour of the new center. (Photos/Laura Hayes
Glenn Brown, CFP
WESTBOROUGH – SALMON
Health and Retirement joined the Westborough Education Foundation for the first Senior Stroll on Nov. 23.
The 11th annual Westborough Turkey Trot was held on the same day. Kerry Paulhus, who is the director of health and fitness at The Willows at Westborough, came up with the idea for the stroll and introduced it to the foundation’s Maureen Johnson. Johnson and the foundation team made the stroll a reality.
“I love working for a company that leads with their hearts. We are all making such a difference every day in the lives of all the residents throughout SALMON and I continue to be proud every day that I work for SALMON,” said Paulhus.
The senior stroll featured a one-mile walk around the track at Westborough High School. Willows residents, donning Turkey Trot and SALMON gear, departed at 9:30 a.m. and the stroll kicked
off at 10:15 a.m. About a dozen residents embraced the challenge along with CEO Matt Salmon, Chief Future Officer Andrew Salmon and COO Shawn Neville.
The SALMON team also set up a hydration station that served over six gallons of hot chocolate.
SALMON hopes to open
the Senior Stroll to seniors from across Westborough and nearby towns to showcase how vibrant and connected life in a senior living community can be.
For more information on The Willows, visit https:// salmonhealth.com/locations/ the-willows-at-westborough/.
NORTHBOROUGH – Juniper Hill’s 26th annual Turkey Day was a success. The event was held on Nov. 22 with participants donating a turkey to golf for free.
According to the golf course, 260 turkeys were donated, including 184 to the Worcester County Food Bank and Veterans, Inc. along with 76 to the Northborough Food Pantry. Additionally, over $2,650 in gift cards to supermarkets and cash were donated to the food bank, and $627 cash was given to the food pantry.
During the event, Peter Kalil, of Auburn, scored a hole in one on the fifth hole of the Riverside course.
For more information on Juniper Hill, visit https://www.juniperhillgc.com/.
Left: Participants in the first Senior Stroll on Nov. 23 pose for a group photo. The stroll was held at Westborough High School.
Right: Senior Stroll walkers smile for a photo.
Peter Kalil, second from right, scored a hole in one during the Turkey Day event at Juniper Hill.
It’s a go for pump station upgrade funding in Hudson
tions that need to be replaced.”
The average pump station has a 25- to 30-year-old life cycle, according to Ryder.
Ryder said at the Finance Committee meeting that the failure of the Municipal Drive Station near Main Street would mean that there was no backup station.
Pump station | from page 1 and $56,381 for maintenance work in the elementary schools. The former amount would be for the purchase and installation of a new intercom system at the C.A. Farley Elementary School, and the latter amount would be for the design, engineering and construction of a new boiler at Quinn Middle School.
Resident Paul Osborne asked if the upgrades would be funded by the Sewer Enterprise Fund, and Ryder confirmed the upgrades would be covered under the enterprise account funds.
In related news, Article 4 passed as well. It was a transfer of $210,000 from salaries to expenses within the Sewer Enterprise Fund budget for the DPW to enter into a multiyear agreement with Veolia for wastewater plant operations.
Articles 6 and 7 were a vote to appropriate the sums of $64,162
The appropriation would be made through transfers from different capital amounts in the School District budget from older capital projects. Superintendent Brian Reagan said at the Oct. 21 Select Board meeting that both projects were for safety reasons.
Reagan noted that the public announcement system at Farley was “substandard right now” due to a tinny quality in a number of classrooms as it is conducted through the fire alarm. As for the boiler replacement at QMS, he said it is 10
Celebration of life held for Steve Uliss
By Maureen Sullivan, Assistant Editor
MARLBOROUGH
– The memory of Steve Uliss was honored at the place where he put Southern barbecue on the map in New England.
On Monday, Dec. 2, friends, family and fans of Uliss gathered at Firefly’s BBQ on Boston Post Road East.
Uliss, 61, died unexpectedly on Friday, Nov. 22.
“He was very, very beloved, a great family man,” said Dave Andelman, former CEO of the Phantom Gourmet, who knew Uliss for decades. “I cannot say enough good things about my friend.”
Andelman was there with his two brothers, Dan and Michael, along with several crew members from Phantom Gourmet who helped serve food to the crowd.
One of the crew members, Maureen Hutchins, said of Uliss, “He seemed to make a lot of people very happy.”
Family members, including his wife, Amy, accepted condolences and shared stories with visitors.
City Councilor Mark Oram recalled seeing Uliss while vacationing in Maine. Oram and his wife were also frequent customers at Firefly’s.
“It’s a major loss for the city,” he said.
Uliss himself was everywhere inside the restaurant — in photo collages, in videos, and above all with the dozens of stories shared among those who knew him.
Visitors were asked to consider a donation to the Steve Uliss Culinary Scholarship, which will be created in his honor to serve the students of his alma mater, Shawsheen Valley Technical High School.
Checks, made payable to “Steve Uliss Culinary Scholarship,” may be sent to Amy Uliss, P.O. Box 130, Hopkinton, MA 01748.
City mulls next steps to control rodent population
Rodent | from page 1
into alternative approaches that the city can take, just so we can have a baseline between programs.”
Dinwoodie said the city is looking into increasing public awareness, as well as trying other approaches such as ContraPest, a type of birth control for rodents.
The city will continue to take reports on rodent sightings, and it will offer information on how residents can help reduce the rodent population. Find out more at https:// www.marlborough-ma.gov/ board-health/pages/rodentinformation-reporting
years old, and the third boiler has not been working for two heating seasons.
At the Town Meeting, Len Belli, the facilities director for the Hudson schools, said that the Quinn Middle School was designed for three boilers to work in unison, and “one of the boilers is currently not working.”
As they are coming into
the winter season, he said, “It needs to be replaced. If one more fails, we can’t operate on one boiler.”
Both articles passed at Town Meeting.
Article 12 was a citizen’s petition to reduce the use of polystyrene containers by food establishments in Hudson.
It stated that polystyrene, or Styrofoam, containers and
disposable utensils have “a negative impact on our environment and are a potential health hazard.”
The petition for the article was signed by roughly 150 people, according to Town Moderator Richard Harrity. Per the wishes of the proponent, it was passed over and will be considered for the Annual Town Meeting in May.
Police Department receives grant to enhance traffic enforcement
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
MARLBOROUGH – The Marlborough Police Department was recently awarded a grant of $60,000 from the state’s Executive Office of Public Safety and Security.
The funds, which were accepted by the City Council on Monday, Nov. 18, will help the police enhance traffic enforcement measures, like impaired driving, speeding, distracted driving and seatbelt violations.
According to a letter to Mayor J. Christian Dumais from Police Chief David Giorgi, these initiatives will take place over designated two-week periods from November 2024 to November 2025.
“The Marlborough Police Department is proud of our commitment to making the roads in Marlborough safer with a focus on traffic enforcement and education,” said Capt. David Campbell, the department’s administrative division commander. “The Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPPS) has been a great resource for us in helping to fund traffic enforcement activity as well as assisting us in years past with tools to help us monitor traffic.
“ It is our goal to make Marlborough commuting as safe as possible even as the city continues to grow and expand.
Capt. David Campbell Marlborough Police Department
He continued, “We will continue to use this grant award to deploy traffic resources to the most needed areas in Marlborough while also taking into account residential input. It is our goal to make Marlborough commuting as safe as possible even as the city continues to grow and expand.”
Campbell has administered
the grant for the past several years.
Other actions
The council approved a transfer of $1,075,694 from the Local Option Meals Tax Revenue Account to fund fiscal 2025 bond payments associated with park and recreation facilities.
Hudson Police plans ‘Shop with a Cop’
HUDSON – The Hudson Police Department’s Community Action Team will sponsor “Shop with a Cop” on Thursday, Dec. 11, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Walmart.
The program is designed to help local families afford a better holiday.
To be eligible, you must be a Hudson resident between the ages of 6 and 14 and attend school in town (public, private, charter, online and special needs institutions).
Eligibility is based on financial hardship; recent loss of parent; homelessness; military family (parent deployed); foster care/adoption.
To register, go to https:// www.facebook.com/hudsonmapolice
Winter is Coming
Enjoy the comfort and convenience of living at New Horizons
Independent & Assisted Living, and Memory Care in Marlborough
Residents at The Meadows and at New Horizons in Marlborough enjoy worry-free retirement living, never having to be concerned with cleaning snow off their cars, shoveling walkways, or braving the New England winter.
Residents savor wine and cheese by the fire or comfortably stroll with friends through the quarter-mile fully heated, indoor walking circle. Others will splash into “Watercise” in the 84-degree waters of the indoor lap swimming pool, and dine on sumptuous home-cooked meals with pleasant companions.
Immediate availability, including three home-cooked meals daily, starting at $2,400/month for one resident.
• Eat delicious home-cooked meals
• Enjoy greenhouse and raised garden beds
• Simplify your life and enjoy new friendships
• Explore new activities; have new adventures
• Exercise in the on-site health and fitness club
• Swim in our indoor 84-degree lap swimming pool
• For new residents, we will guarantee no increase for six full years to the basic monthly fee!
MORE&
What’s Behind Today’s Mortgage Rate Volatility?
Elaine Quigley, CBR, CRS, GRI
Elaine.Quigley@commonmoves.com
Cell: (508) 735-5161 www.EQRE.com
Ifyou’ve been keeping an eye on mortgage rates lately, you might feel like you’re on a roller coaster ride. One day rates are up; the next they dip down a bit. So, what’s driving this constant change? Let’s dive into just a few of the major reasons why we’re seeing so much volatility, and what it means for you.
The Market’s Reaction to the Election
A significant factor causing fluctuations in mortgage rates is the general reaction to the political landscape. Election seasons often bring uncertainty to financial markets, and this one is no different. Markets tend to respond not only to who won, but also to the economic policies they are expected to implement. And when it comes to what’s been happening with mortgage rates over the past couple of weeks, as the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) says:
“. . . the primary reason interest rates have been on the rise pertains to the uncertainty surrounding the presidential election. Although the election is now complete, there continue to be growing concerns over budget deficits.”
Family Owned & Operated for Over 60 Years
• Air Conditioning
In the short term, this anticipation has caused a slight uptick in mortgage rates as the markets adjust and react. Additionally,
• Convenient Payment Plans
• 24 Hour Emergency Service
• Heating System Upgrades
• Automatic Oil Delivery
• Diesel Fuel
factors like international tensions, supply chain disruptions, and trade policies can drive investor sentiment, causing them to seek safer assets like bonds, which can indirectly impact mortgage rates. Essentially, the more global or domestic uncertainty, the greater the chance that mortgage rates may shift.
The Economy and the Federal Reserve
Inflation and unemployment are two other big drivers of mortgage rates. The Federal Reserve (the Fed) has been working to bring inflation under control, and has been closely monitoring the economy as they do. And as long as inflation continues to moderate and the job market shows signs of maximum employment, the Fed will continue its plans to cut the Federal Funds Rate.
Although the Fed doesn’t set mortgage rates, their decisions do have an impact, and typically a cut leads to a mortgage rates response. And in their November 6-7th meeting, the Fed had the data they needed to make another cut to the Federal Funds Rate. And while that decision was expected and much of the mortgage rate movement happened prior to that meeting, there was a slight dip in rates.
Dr. Elizabeth A. Franger and Dr. Frederick M. Kaestel
•
•
•
• Wounds
•
Please
What To Expect in the Coming Months
As we look ahead, mortgage rates will respond to changes in the Fed’s policies and other economic indicators. The markets will likely remain in a wait-and-see mode, reacting to each new development. And, with the transition of a new administration comes an element of unpredictability. A recent article from The Mortgage Reports explains:
“Today’s economic indicators come with mixed pressures on mortgage rates and we’re likely to be in for a good amount of volatility as markets adjust and respond to the election . . .”
The best way to navigate this landscape is to have a team of real estate experts by your side. Professionals will help you understand what’s happening and can provide you with the guidance you need to make informed housing market decisions along the way.
Bottom Line
The takeaway? Today’s mortgage rate volatility is going to continue to be driven by economic factors and political changes. Now is the time to lean on experienced professionals. A trusted real estate agent and mortgage lender can help you navigate through it. And with the right guidance, you can make informed decisions.
Holiday festivities on the horizon, including boutique and stroll
MARLBOROUGH – The Marlborough Garden Club will kick off the holiday season with its annual Holiday Boutique on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the 1 Lt Charles W. Whitcomb Middle School, 25 Union St., Marlborough.
This very popular 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 Marlborough Garden Club has held its Boutique, offering the community a perfect place to
select festive seasonal items for their own homes and to pick up thoughtful and unique gifts.
“Our talented members are going to be working over-
time in the week prior the Boutique to create a fantastic array of fresh green items for this year,” said Boutique CoChairman Marian Mamayek. There will also be some wonderful baked goods and craft items.
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.
THE CLASS OF 1949 (AKA) the Golden Girls of St. Ann Academy, recently celebrated their 75th reunion. It was the year that they were singing “Riders in the Sky,” and watching “All the King’s Men” at the movies. Gas was 27 cents a gallon and Coca-Cola cost $1 for a 24-bottle carton. Meeting at the Wayside Inn, Sudbury, those present were Anna Keenan Dixon, Elizabeth Pietroluongo Evangelous, Roberta Thibodeau Massi, Lorraine Dessein Lesieur and Marialyse Roy Rivers.
The Thanksgiving Luncheon, held at the Marlborough Senior Center, featured turkey dinner prepared by Kennedy’s Market and served with the help of the Marlborough Police Department. In the photo, Officer Watkins, left, and Officer Donnelly help Trish Pope, executive director, serve dinners to Sister Jane Amirault, left, and Zabel Fay. (Photo/Mary Wenzel)
The Class of 1949 (AKA) the Golden Girls of St. Ann Academy, recently celebrated their 75th reunion at the Wayside Inn, Sudbury. In photo, from left, are: Anna Keenan Dixon, Elizabeth Pietroluongo Evangelous, Roberta Thibodeau Massi, Lorraine Dessein Lesieur and Marialyse Roy Rivers. (Photo/Courtesy)
MARLBOROUGH HIGH SCHOOL English teacher, Rick Barrett, just experienced the surprise of a lifetime when his daughter, Mikayla Barrett, returned home after a year-long military deployment in Estonia. Mikayla planned this Nov. 8 special moment to reunite with her dad right here at his school, and it couldn’t have been more heartwarming.
THE LAKE WILLIAMS BOARDWALK has closed for the winter season. A notice will be posted closer to springtime about a reopening date.
A “HOLIDAY STROLL,” sponsored by the Marlborough Downtown Village Association, will be held along Main Street on Sunday, Dec. 8, noon to 6 p.m. The event will feature a trackless train giving rides, a synthetic ice skating rink with skate rentals, vendors, festival of trees, face painting and more including tree lighting in Union Common and Santa Claus. The Marlborough High School Choir and Orchestra will perform at the First Church in
(Photo/Courtesy)
Marlborough, Congregational, above Union Common.
FR. GREGORY CHRISTAKOS of Saints Anargyroi Greek Orthodox Church recently delivered a $5,000 check to Barbara LaGrenade at the Marlborough Community Cupboard. Throughout the
Greek Festival, held over Labor Day weekend, there were donation jars for the Community Cupboard. The church matched what was collected from festival visitors.
A THANKSGIVING LUNCHEON was served for local senior citizens on Nov. 20
at the Marlborough Senior Center. A turkey dinner, with all the fixins’, was prepared by Kennedy’s Market and included turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing and squash followed with apple crisp for dessert. This sit-down meal was served with the help of members of the Marl-
borough Police Department. Mary King, harpist, provided entertainment.
FOR HOLIDAY SHOPPERS , don’t forget about the 2025 Marlborough Historical Society Calendar, “Marlborough Through the Ages.” Proceeds help to support the upkeep of the Peter Rice Homestead. They are sold for $10 each and available at the Main Street Bank, St. Mary’s Credit Union and Monick Supply or come to the Peter Rice Homestead on Tuesday evenings between 4 and 6 p.m.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
Dec. 3 – Joy Pare
Dec. 8 – Randy Scott
Dec. 13 – Carol Mac Ewen
Dec. 14 – Danny Stevens
Dec. 15 – Kathy Leonard and Barbara Clancy
Dec. 16 – Michael Adamson
Dec. 18 – Doug Rowe, Bonnie Hill and Tony Valerio
Send items for “Marlborough at a Glance” to Mary Wenzel at marysampler@verizon.net. Put GLANCE in the subject line.
MARLBOROUGH – St. Matthias Catholic Church will be holding its Holiday Basket Raffle and Bake Sale on Saturday, Dec. 14, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Parish Hall.
The theme baskets include lottery tickets, children’s games, holiday host baskets, wine and cheese and many more. While you’re shopping, make sure to stop by the bake table to check out their array of goodies.
All are welcome.
St. Matthias is located at 409 Hemenway St., Marlborough. For more information, call 508-460-9255. For more information about St. Matthias, visit https://stmattpar.org/.
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future.
To wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile to every living creature I meet.
To give so much time to improving myself that I have no time to criticize others.
To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.
To think well of myself and to proclaim this fact to the world, not in loud words, but in great deeds.
To live in the faith that the whole world is on my side, so long as I am true to the best that is in me.
Fr. Gregory Christakos, of Saints Anargyroi Greek Orthodox Church, recently delivered a $5,000 check to Barbara LaGrenade at the Marlborough Community Cupboard. Throughout the Greek Festival, held over Labor Day weekend, there were donation jars for the community cupboard. The church matched what was collected from festival visitors.
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
GRAFTON – On the morning of Monday, Nov. 25, volunteers from Grafton High School and Community Harvest Project joined the Grafton Food Bank in assembling 200 food baskets for Thanksgiving in the Municipal Center gymnasium.
The baskets were distributed to clients using the food bank.
According to Allison O’Brien of the food bank, each
“ I like the sense of community, doing good for others.
Joann Brennan
bag contained enough items, including nonperishable items and fresh produce, for a Thanksgiving dinner (except for a turkey or ham because the food bank has
Holiday Gift Guide
no refrigeration, clients received a Stop & Shop gift card for the main course).
“I enjoy doing this,” said Roxanne Kaminski, who’s been a member of the food bank’s board for five years. “This is a fun activity each year.”
The fresh produce, like onions, squash and apples, were donated by the Community Harvest Project. Members of the high school’s Student Council bagged the produce and brought them to the larger bags containing the nonperishable items.
NORTHBOROUGH – The town’s annual Tree Lighting will take place on Saturday, Dec. 7, at 5 p.m. at Blake
The event will be held in honor of Neil Ellsworth.
The festivities will feature a performance by the Nobo Fifth Grade Chorus. Snacks will be available while they last.
Sponsored by Starbucks, Wegman’s and Northborough House of Pizza.
Donations for the Food Pantry and Toys for Tots will be accepted.
“I like the sense of community, doing good for others,” said Joann Brennan, a member of the food bank for more than 10 years.
The Grafton Food Bank is a community driven nonprofit organization that has been serving families for more than 30 years. Donations of food and toiletries cover approximately 25% of monthly distributions, while the food bank purchases approximately 75% from local supermarkets such as Goretti’s and Stop & Shop.
In addition, the Worcester County Food Bank provides food and gift cards. The food bank has pet food available through its
Holiday Gift Guide
Pawsitive Pantry.
“It’s such a good cause,” said Dolores Charron, who’s been with the food bank for 12 years.
The food bank is also distributing holiday gift baskets in mid-December for its clients. To donate, or for more information, visit www.graftonfoodbank.com
The event will include holiday fun for all ages, including crafts for kids, magnet making, dreidel playing, holiday tattoos, a scavenger hunt and card making. There will also be a special story time with Santa from noon to 1 p.m.
The event is free and open to the public.
After, stick around downtown Shrewsbury for the annual Yuletide Market and Light the Common, which is being hosted by the Town Center Association and will take place from 4 to 8 p.m.
‘Tis the Season
to celebrate the men in your life
the Season playful!
Our
Westborough welcomes December with Tree Lighting
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – Residents cel -
ebrated the arrival of December — and the holiday season — with the annual Light Parade, Tree Lighting and visit from Santa Claus.
Before the lights went on, several downtown businesses offered special deals and activities.
The afternoon also served as the kickoff to the Holiday Passport program, a promotion by the town’s Economic Development Committee to promote local shopping during the holiday season.
The passports — available at local businesses and municipal offices — may be taken to participating businesses. When a customer purchases an item, the business will stamp the passport. Once the passport has been stamped by 10 different businesses, the passport may be left in a drop box and be entered into a drawing.
The drawing will be held on Jan. 7, 2025; prizes will be awarded.
For details, visit https:// www.town.westborough. ma.us/660/2024-Business-HolidayPassport
Top left: Here comes Santa Claus, right down West Main Street.
Bottom left: Hundreds came to the Rotary to watch the Light Parade and Tree Lighting.
Above: Bumble from “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer” makes his way down West Main Street. (Photos/Maureen Sullivan)
LEGAL NOTICES
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40
HUDSON
LEGAL PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
The Hudson Conservation Commission will hold a Public Hearing relative to the following filing under the Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. Chapter 131, Section 40) as requested by Hudson Mill Realty LLC. The owner of the property is Hudson Mill Realty LLC. The work is located at 43 Broad Street (Map-Parcel 29-199). The proposed project is landscaping within 25 feet of the Assabet River. The Public Hearing will be held via remote video conference on December 19, 2024 at 7:00 pm. Please contact the Conservation Commission Office for information on joining the meeting: phelinek@townofhudson.org or 978562-2948.
All interested parties are urged to attend. The application can be obtained through email by contacting the Conservation Commission Office.
WESTBOROUGH
PUBLIC NOTICE- TOWN OF WESTBOROUGH
On November 12, 2024, the Westborough Select Board conducted a hearing and voted to amend the starting date for the winter overnight parking ban, Section 5-1(m) of the Town’s Traffic Rules and Orders. This section now states: “No person shall park or permit to be parked a vehicle on any street between the hours of eleven o’clock in the evening and seven o’clock in the morning for a period of more than one hour between the first day of December and the first day of April in any year.
SHREWSBURY
NOTICE OF HEARING
G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40
Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Scott Charpentier, 63 Main Street, Northborough, MA, 01532 has filed a Notice of Intent for the removal of a dam and restoration of a stream at 134 Reservoir Street.
A public hearing will be held on the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, December 17, 2024, in the Conference Room of Shrewsbury Council on Aging, 98 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.
SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Kenneth Polito, Chairman
Notice is hereby given that the Town of Shrewsbury Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing to discuss and vote to amend the Wetland Rules and Regulations associated with Article 29, the Wetlands Protection Bylaw, approved by the State Attorney General on the 14th of September 2023.
A public hearing will be held on the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, December 17, 2024, in the Conference Room of Shrewsbury Council on Aging, 98 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.
To view the Town of Shrewsbury Wetland Bylaw please access the following link: https://www. shrewsburyma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/15140/
To view the current Town of Shrewsbury Wetland Regulations and Fee Schedule please access the following link: https://www. shrewsburyma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/15139/
For any questions or comments relating to the Bylaw and Regulations or attending the meeting, please email conservation@ shrewsburyma.gov or call 508841-8502
SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Kenneth Polito, Chairman
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40
Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Michael Bellino, 15 Water Street, Shrewsbury, MA, has filed an after-the-fact Request for Determination of Applicability to remove 2 trees and stockpile soil at 15 Water Street.
A public hearing will be held on the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, December 17, 2024, in the Conference Room of Shrewsbury Council on Aging, 98 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.
SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Kenneth Polito, Chairman
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40
Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations Mohammad Attique, 19 Lantern Lane, Shrewsbury, has filed a Request for Determination of Applicability for the removal of trees within the 100-foot buffer zone at 19 Lantern Lane.
A public hearing will be held on the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on
Tuesday Evening, December 17, 2024, in the Conference Room of Shrewsbury Council on Aging, 98 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.
SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Kenneth Polito, Chairman
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40
Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game, 1 Rabbit Hill Road, Westborough, MA 01581 has filed a Notice of Intent for the resurfacing of an asphalt parking area at 30 Hartford Turnpike.
A public hearing will be held on the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, December 17, 2024, in the Conference Room of Shrewsbury Council on Aging, 98 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.
SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Kenneth Polito, Chairman
SOUTHBOROUGH
Notice is hereby given by Ted’s of Fayville, 300 Turnpike Road., Southborough, MA 01772, pursuant to the provisions of G.L. c. 255, section 39A, that on Monday December 30, 2024 at 10 am an auction sale on the web based site of http://sta.ibidsmart.com the following motor vehicles will be sold to satisfy our garage keeper’s lien thereon for storage, towing charges, care and expenses of notices and sale of said vehicles.
Starting December 16, 2024 at 9 am, vehicles can be viewed at http://sta.ibidsmart.com.
This is not an absolute auction we reserve the right to set a minimum on all auction vehicles. If a
particular vehicle is not listed on http://sta.ibidsmart.com call 508485-0503 for bidding instructions.
2006 Nissan Altima VIN: 1N4AL11DX6N461582
Owned by Taylah C Pelote
2014 Chevrolet Cruze VIN : 1G1PC5SB4E7379836
Owned by Rogerio Santiago Garajau
2002 Toyota Camry Vin: 4T1BF30K02U508955
Owned by Breona Sue McSparren
2007 Lexus IS250 VIN: JTHCK262X75008808
Owned by: Chambers Motors
2008 Wabash 53’ Trailer VIN: 1JJV532W28L207047
Owned by Lease Miser LLC
2012 Chevrolet Caprice VIN: 6G1MK5U22CL663248
Owned by Frank Smith
2012 Peterbilt 587 VIN: 1XP4DP9XXCD147808
Owned by DS Transport Express
Rolando Antonio Martinez De Je -
sus Samual Camacho-Acosta
2002 Cottrell Trailer VIN: 5E0AZ14422G003909
Owned by TB Auto Transport LLC
2007 Chevrolet Silverado VIN: 2GCEK13CX71515369
Owned by Anthony P Stokes
2009 Ford Flex VIN: 2FMDK53C89BA86826
Owned by Jerymiah Collins
2013 Ford Fiesta VIN: 3FADP4BJ3DM191027
Owned by Marcia J Brigham-Bull
2014 Chrysler 200 VIN: 1C3CCBBG6EN115064
Owned by: Samantha Cornelio
2005 Subaru Legacy VIN: 4S3BL616657227004
Owned by: Willisson DeCastro Ribeiro
2006 Great Dane VIN: 1GRAP06276D418734
Owned by: DS Transport Express
Rolando Antonio Martinez De Je -
sus Samual Camacho-Acosta
2013 Nissan Sentra VIN: 3N1AB7AP9DL795080
Owned by: Dhandara P Cardoso De Faria
2000 Buick LeSabre VIN: 1G4HP54K8Y4158898
Owned by: Laura Josyln
This notice has been given under the provisions of G.L. c. 255, Section 39A.
Publication Friday December 6,13 and 20, 2024 Community Advocate.
FAMILY & PROBATE LAW
INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE
Docket No. WO24P2776EA
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
The Trial Court
Worcester Division nd Family Court
Estate of: Zachary William Esper
Date of Death: July 17, 2024
To all persons interested in the above captioned estate by Petition of Petitioner, Elaine M. Weston of Carver, MA
A Will has been admitted to informal probate. Elaine M. Weston of Carver, MA has been informally appointed as the Personal Representative of the estate to serve without surety on the bond.
The estate is being administered under informal procedure by the Personal Representative under the Massachusetts Uniform Probate Code without supervision by the Court. Inventory and accounts are not required to be filed with the Court, but interested parties are entitled to notice regarding the administration from the Personal Representative and can petition the Court in any matter relating to the estate, including distribution of assets and expenses of administration. Interested parties are entitled to petition the Court to institute formal proceedings and to obtain orders terminating or restricting the powers of Personal Representatives appointed under informal procedure. A copy of the Petition and Will, if any, can be obtained from the Petitioner.
COMMUNITY CLASSIFIED
COMMUNITY HISTORY
Shrewsbury woman was one of the last Titanic disaster survivors
SHREWSBURY
THEN NOW
By Michael Perna Jr. History Columnist
SHREWSBURY – For years, Shrewsbury was home to a person who was a part of one of the greatest nautical disasters the world has ever seen — the sinking of the RMS Titanic in April 1912. Lillian Asplund, who was five years old at the time of the disaster, was not only the last survivor to be living in the United States, but the last survivor in the world that had any recollection of the event.
Two other survivors outlived her, but neither lived in the U. S. and both were too young (ages nine months
and 11 weeks) to remember anything about the sinking.
Lillian herself was haunted by memories of her mother trying to stay on the ship with her father. Her father insisted she get in a lifeboat with Lillian and her younger brother, while two brothers (one being her twin) stayed with him — he told his wife he would get into a separate lifeboat later. Lillian remembered him waving to them as their lifeboat was lowered. Her father and two brothers all perished, although her father’s body was eventually recovered — he is buried in Worcester’s All Faiths Cemetery.
Lillian never married. From 1951 until her death in 2006 at the age of 99, she lived at 39 Fairlawn Circle in Shrewsbury, along with her mother and younger brother. She worked as a clerk at the State Mutual
Insurance Company for many years, and for a time at the former Denholm’s Department Store. The Worcester Historical Museum has a Denholm’s exhibit with one of the displays featuring a pair of Lillian’s
COMMUNITY CLASSIFIEDS
gloves.
Throughout her life, she would very rarely speak of the Titanic disaster, even after being offered money to do so. She felt it not only would be disrespectful to the memory
of her family but would revive terrible memories. Following her death, her Titanic ticket and a pocket watch carried by her father when the ship sank were auctioned off after being found in her safety deposit box.
Marlborough, MA May require to travel/telecommute. Work on Software Development Lifecycle for Medical Devices in accordance with IEC 62304. Contact: Susan Cardinal Boston Scientific Corporation, GlobalTalentAcq@bsci. com. Please include reference H4872-00823. (EOE).
United Site Services seeks IT Director for Westborough, MA office
Req’d: Bach in CS, Comp Engrng, or rel fld +5yrs prgrsv post-bach exper in dsgn and architecture of IT solutions w/in Salesforce w/ Apex customization, incl 3yrs mngng Agile IT teams & 2yrs prfrmg data anlytcs, migration, integration, & validation w/ Excel & SQL; OR Master’s in CS, Comp Engrng, or rel fld +3yrs dsgn and architecture of IT solutions w/in Salesforce w/ Apex customization and mngng Agile IT teams, incl. 2yrs prfrmg data anlytcs, migration, integration, & validation using Excel & SQL. Wrkng knowledge of Netsuite/Zone Advanced Billing also req’d. Significant telecommuting w/ periodic presence at Westborough HQ. To apply, email resume to careers@unitedsiteservices.com. Must Ref. job code: 2024-20072
Inset: Lillian Asplund of Shrewsbury was not only the last Titanic survivor to be living in the United States, but the last survivor in the world that had any recollection of the event.
The Titanic leaves Southampton, England, on April 10, 1912, on its fatal maiden voyage.
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
Angell, MaryEllen of Grafton Brote-Guinto, Susan of Shrewsbury Chew, Virginia of Shrewsbury Christensen, Mary of Northborough Christie, Barbara of Westborough Costello, Connor of Southborough Craycroft, John formerly of Westborough DiPadua, Irene of Shrewsbury DiTaranto, Edna formerly of Grafton Gannon, Valerie of Shrewsbury Graves, Richard formerly of Shrewsbury Laughton, Melvin of Shrewsbury Lavallee Jr., Robert of Marlborough Lyons, Joan of Marlborough Murphy, Michael formerly of Hudson Nichols, Jason of Westborough Ogilvie, Richard of Westborough Provencal, Joanne of Grafton Quinlivan, Bernard of Shrewsbury Sutton, Jean formerly of Grafton Vittum Jr., Raymond formerly of Marlborough
Raymond Vittum Jr., 85
WEST BOYLSTON - Raymond “Bud” Bradbury Vittum Jr. , age 85, passed away on Sunday, Nov. 24, 2024.
A treasured father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, he is preceded by his wife, Hope (Moulton) Vittum (1942-2018). Bud leaves behind 4 sons and daughtersin-law [Brad (Misty), Craig (Liz), Mark (Kelly), Dean (Jen)], 1 daughter and son-in-law, [Tracey (Dan)], 12 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. Born May 6, 1939, in Waltham, MA to Raymond Bradbury Vittum Sr. and Monda (Savage) Vittum, Bud grew up with, and is survived by, 2 younger siblings - Nancy (Vittum) Williams of Charlotte, NC and Richard Vittum Sr. of Waltham, MA.
A Waltham High School graduate and a US Navy veteran, Bud married the love of his life, Hope Moulton, on New
Year’s Eve 1960. Upon Hope’s death in 2018, Bud returned to Marlborough to be closer to his children living a full and comfortable life in assisted living with additional help from his loving family. Bud departed this world with much love and dignity, and we will forever miss him.
A memorial service will be held at St. Matthias (409 Hemenway Street, Marlborough, MA) on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at 10:30am.
Michael D. Murphy, 71
POMPANO BEACH, FL - Michael D Murphy 71, formerly of Hudson passed away peacefully after a long battle with cancer. He was the son of Alice and Merle Murphy both long time Hudson residents. He was also predeceased by his older brother Frank.
Michael is survived by his daughter Katie Liberis, sister Rose Marie Carnes and her husband Fred, his brother Shawn, grandchildren Ian Goodwin and Jason and Ava Liberis and also his nieces Ashley and Brittaney Carnes.
Funeral arrangements are being handled by Boyd-Panciera funeral care of Pembroke Pines, FL. There will be no visiting hours.
Richard Graves, 83
CHARLTON, MA/ALVA, FLRichard “Bruce” Graves, 83, of Charlton, MA and Alva, FL, passed away on November 22nd at Page Rehab in Fort Myers, FL after a period of declining health.
He leaves his five daughters, Debra Burlingame and her husband, Scott of Charlton, MA, Pamela Lovejoy and her wife, Kim Vasseur of Paxton, MA, Lisa Gabree of Pepperell, MA, Lorraine “Sis” Virgilio and her husband, John of Sutton, MA, and Donna Cox and her husband, Evert of Newton, KS; two sisters in law, Elizabeth “Betty” Graves of Twisp, WA and Elaine Graves of West Boylston, MA; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren,
and nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife of 32 years, Lorraine (Rutherford) Graves; three brothers, Donald Graves, Russell Graves, and George Graves; and one sister, Margaret Wood.
He was born and raised in Shrewsbury, MA, the son of the late Harold and Olive (Russell) Graves.
O’Connor Brothers Funeral Home of Worcester assisted the family with arrangements.
John E. Craycroft, 74
Scan QR code to read all of this week’s obituaries on our website.
husband Ted of Wethersfield, CT; and her brother-in-law, Stephen T. Gannon and his wife Betty, of Richmond, VA. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. Val was predeceased by her parents, John S. Blackett and Constance (Lundgren) Blackett, and a nephew, Edward E. Gannon.
The Britton-Shrewsbury Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
Barbara L. Christie, 96
Christopher, Jessica, Bryan, Benjamin, Kayleigh and Emily, 14 great grandchildren, her sister Barbara Lyons of Groveland and 4 nephews. She also leaves behind her friend, Kathleen Davidson and her husband Robin.
She was predeceased by her husband of 28 years, Robert Lyons in 1983 and her son Gregory Lyons in 2023. She was also pre-deceased by her long-time partner William Mulcahey in June of 2024.
Short & Rowe Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.
MILFORD - Mr. John E. Craycroft, 74, current resident of Milford, and previously of Westborough, MA died November 19, 2024 at his home.
John was born September 12, 1950 in Louisville, KY, son to the late Joseph Craycroft, Sr. and Virginia Scholl Craycroft.
John is survived by his wife, Constance Craycroft, of Milford; a son, Tim Craycroft and his wife Martha of Steamboat Springs, Colorado; three grandchildren, Jack, Wyatt, and Flynn Craycroft; and three siblings, Sue, Margie, and Jim. He was predeceased by his parents and two brothers, Joseph, Jr. and Charles William.
Chesmore Funeral Home in Holliston assisted with arrangements.
Valerie J. Gannon, 84
SHREWSBURY - Valerie J. “Val” (Blackett) Gannon, 84, a lifelong resident of Shrewsbury, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at Saint Vincent Hospital, surrounded by her loving family.
Val leaves behind her devoted husband of 64 years, John F. Gannon, and their cherished family: her sons, Jeffrey S. Gannon and his wife Janet of Chatham, Michael J. Gannon and his wife Kristin Nicastro-Gannon of Burbank, CA, and Peter S. Gannon of Shrewsbury; her adored grandchildren, Abigail, Matthew, Grace and Zachary Gannon; and her loving sisters, Patricia Gannon and her husband Lawrence of Shrewsbury, and Eileen Dorrington and her
WESTBOROUGH - Barbara L. Christie, 96, of Westborough, passed away on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at the Oakdale Rehabilitation Center in West Boylston. She was the wife of the late Donald B. Christie, Sr. Born in Framingham, she was the daughter of the late George and Elizabeth (Prescott) Higgins.
She is survived by three children, Peter G. Christie and his wife, Dorene, of Needham, Robert J. Christie and his wife, JoAnn, of Springfield, OH and Patrica J. Hickey and her husband, John, of Leominster; a daughter-in-law, Nancy Christie of Springfield, IL; 10 grandchildren, 24 greatgrandchildren and one greatgreat grandchild.
She was predeceased by her son, Donald B. Christie, Jr. and her brother, George Higgins.
The Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
Joan B.
Lyons, 91
MARLBOROUGH - Joan B. Lyons 91, of Marlborough passed away on Thursday, November 21, 2024 at Alliance Health at Marie Ester in Marlborough surrounded by her loving family.
She was born in Marlborough, the daughter of the late Alfred and Ethel (Cave) Annett.
Joan is survived by her 4 children, Sandra McCaffrey of Hudson, Peter Lyons of Braintree, Sally Blanchet and her husband Richard of FL, Robin Lyons of Dudley, 13 grandchildren, Dustin, Suzanne, Jonathan, Victoria, Timothy, Heather, Ashley,
Bernard V. Quinlivan, 92
SHREWSBURY - Bernard Vincent “Barney” Quinlivan, 92, of Shrewsbury MA, passed away in his home on November 25, 2024 surrounded by his loving family. Born and raised in Worcester, he was the son of the late John J. and Mary “May” (Mulchrone) Quinlivan, originally from Lissycasey Co. Clare and Turlough Co. Mayo Ireland respectively and later of Worcester, MA.
Barney was predeceased by his beloved wife Kathleen “Kay” (Sullivan) Quinlivan of 66 years in Feb 2023. Barney and Kay were parents to their devoted sons, Bernard (Annmarie), Mark (Andrea), Thomas (Maureen), John who predeceased him in 2020 (Karen), James (Karen) and Joseph (Kim).
He was predeceased by his siblings Mary Kenny, John “Buddy” Quinlivan, Robert “Bob” Quinlivan, Richard Quinlivan and James Quinlivan and Eileen Quinlivan who predeceased him in their infancy. Barney will be profoundly missed by his 14 grandsons and 3 granddaughters: Patrick Quinlivan, Meghan Zawadzki, Sean Quinlivan, Brendan Quinlivan, Daniel Quinlivan, Jack Quinlivan, Anthony Quinlivan, Liam Quinlivan, Brian Quinlivan, Katherine Quinlivan, Michael Quinlivan, Jack Quinlivan, Kevin Quinlivan, James Quinlivan, Jaclyn Quinlivan, Sean Quinlivan, Patrick Quinlivan, six great-grandchildren, as well as his many nephews and nieces.
The Britton Funeral Home of Shrewsbury assisted with arrangements.
Jason E. Nichols, 55
WESTBOROUGH, MA/ BROOKLYN, CT - Jason E. Nichols, 55, of Westborough and formerly of Brooklyn, CT, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at his residence.
Born in Dorchester, MA, he was a son of the late Donald and Nancy (Young) Nichols, and was raised and educated in Hingham, MA.
Jason leaves the love of his life and wife of 30 years, Laurie Nichols, 58, and his children Alex Johnson, 35, Ashley Nichols, 31, Emma Nichols, 26, Devin Nichols, 23. He also leaves behind his grandson Spencer Gomez-Nichols, 2, siblings Matthew Nichols, 51, Victoria Damon, 54.
Jason was predeceased by his siblings Leah Belcher, 50, and David Nichols, 38.
The Pickering & Son Upton Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
Irene J. DiPadua, 97
SHREWSBURY - Irene J. (Caika) DiPadua, 97, of Shrewsbury, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 20, 2024. Her husband of 53 years, Leo F. DiPadua, died in 2012.
Irene is survived by many nieces and nephews, including her caregivers Donna Laramee and her husband Kenneth of Leicester, Linda Aho of Holden, and Jane Faucher of Shrewsbury.
Irene was born in Worcester to the late, Frank and Josephine (Piasta) Caika. Irene was predeceased by her brothers, Sigmond and Stanley Caika; and her sisters, Sophie Demarski, Charlotte Chaplis, Josephine Setterland, and Frances Kaminski.
The Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel of Worcester assisted with arrangements.
Richard Ogilvie, 88
WESTBOROUGH - Richard Ogilvie, 88, of Westborough, passed away on Monday, November 18, 2024. He was the husband of Harriet M. (Stewart)
Ogilvie. Born in Boston, he was the son of the late David and Margaret (Black) Ogilvie.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by two sons, David R. Ogilvie and his wife, Marillee, of Hopedale and Richard Ogilvie, Jr. and his wife, Annie, of Manchester Center, VT, five grandchildren, Thompson Ogilvie, Colin Ogilvie, Margaret Ogilvie, Christopher Ogilvie and Brandon Ogilvie and one great grandson, William Ogilvie.
He was predeceased by his siblings, Muriel Prest, David Ogilvie and Elizabeth Rideout.
The Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
Connor Costello, 30
SOUTHBOROUGH – Connor Costello, age 30, of Southborough, MA, passed away unexpectedly on November 8, 2024. Born and raised in Southborough, Connor developed a deep passion for sports, with basketball holding a special place in his heart. After graduating from high school, he pursued his love for the game at Hobart College and then Salve Regina College, later traveling to Europe to play professional basketball. He would frequently travel back and forth between Europe and the U.S. to train and compete.
He was the loving brother of Ryan Costello; and the devoted husband of Mathilde Auger Costello. He is also survived by his parents, Kim and Rob Costello; his grandmothers, Nena Hicks and Roberta Costello; his grandparents, Curt and Pat van Vloten; as well
as numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Jean Doerr Sutton, 77
WARWICK, RI - Jean Doerr Sutton, 77, of Warwick, Rhode Island, passed away peacefully at her home on November 20, 2024, surrounded by her loving family, after a brave battle with lung cancer.
She was the cherished wife of Jeff Sutton, with whom she shared 42 beautiful years of marriage; the devoted mother of Sarah Sutton of Barrington, RI, and Elizabeth Sutton of Warwick, RI; and the treasured grandmother of Madeline and Norah Cohea.
In addition to her husband, daughters, and granddaughters, Jean is survived by her siblings and their spouses: John Doerr (Christine Mirabile) of Wellesley, MA; Judi Riggieri (Albert) of Kennebunkport, ME; Jennifer O’Brien (Robert) of Warwick, RI; Jodi Levia
(Randy) of Grafton, MA; and James Doerr (Jessica) of Hayward, CA. She is also survived by countless nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, Gloria and F. Joseph Doerr.
The Barrett & Cotter Funeral Home of Warwick, RI assisted with arrangements.
Robert Lavallee Jr., 81
MARLBOROUGH - Robert Lavallee, Jr., 81, of Marlborough, died Friday, November 22, 2024, at UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester, MA after a short illness.
He was the son of the late Robert Lavallee, Sr. and Eleanor (Wilbur) Lavallee. He was the husband of June (Perry) Lavallee who were married for 59 years. He was predeceased by his daughter, Elaine Lavallee.
Along with his wife, Robert is survived by his daughter, Mary Smith of FL and her husband Stephen and two grand-
children; Cyrus and Savanah, his brother David Lavallee of Marlborough, his sisters Janet Testa of Wayland and Lynn Lavallee and her wife MaryEllen Smart of Dunstable. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
The Slattery Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.
Susan Brote-Guinto, 57
SHREWSBURY - Susan BroteGuinto, 57, a lifelong resident of Shrewsbury, passed away unexpectedly Saturday, November 23rd 2024 at home after being stricken ill. Susan is welcomed into heaven into the arms of her son, Matthew Brote who passed away in 2014 and her father, Raymond R. Brote, who passed away in 2015. Susan is survived by two daughters, Gianna and Arianna Guinto; her mother Joanne Brote; a brother David M. Brote; two nephews, D.J. and Blake, and a niece, Tiana all of Shrewsbury; many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
The Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel of Worcester assisted with arrangements.
COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
Marlborough students honored for academic achievement
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
MARLBOROUGH – During its meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 26, the School Committee honored several members of Marlborough High School’s Class of 2025 for its academic achievements.
Superintendent Mary Murphy and MHS Principal Daniel Riley recognized the following students:
Adelaide Johnson recently received the National School Development Council (NSDC) Award for Academic Growth and Student Leadership in Learning. She is currently ranked fifth in her class, and she is a member of the volleyball and track teams.
Johnson is also a member of the National Honor Society.
“Whether it’s organizing local food drives or tutoring young students, Adelaide’s compassion and willingness
to help others shine through,” said Murphy in her report to the School Committee.
Dane Garson also received the NSDC Award for Academic Growth and Student Leadership in Learning. Garson has taken AP courses in physics, biology and chemistry, and enrolled in a college-level chemistry course at the University of Connecticut. He is a member of the var-
Stay
sity track team, and he has earned three black belts in karate. Garson has been teaching at a karate studio for more than two years.
Sara Garner has earned the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Good Citizen Award. She is currently ranked fourth in the class, is an AP Scholar, a member of the National Honor Society and the Tri-M Music Honor Society.
In addition, Garner is the current president of the Student Council and a member of the Regional Student Advisory Council. She is also involved in Special Olympics, and she has been a competitive dancer for 15 years.
Leo Renn has received the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents Award for Academic Excellence. He currently ranks sec-
ond in his class. He is an AP Scholar with Distinction, and he is a member of the track and cross country teams, as well as the school’s Robotics Club.
Renn has also interned with the city’s Information Technology Department and with Technium.
Andy Zheng has also received the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents Award for Academic Excellence. The top student in his class, Zheng is an AP Student with Distinction, and he has received the Harvard Book Award, the Susan B. Anthony Award and the Frederick Douglass Award.
In addition, he is a member of the tennis team, the National Honor Society and the Tri-M Music Honor Society. He has also worked at his family’s restaurant for the past six years as a cashier and delivery driver.
& Well
Our short-term stays offer a warm, welcoming environment and peace of mind for families, providing extra support during the colder winter months.
Discover the comfort of community living—without the worries of winter. Contact us today to learn more about our winter respite stays!
(508) 393-5655
238 West Main Street Northborough, MA 01532
(508) 836-4354
Five Lyman Street Westborough, MA 01581
Offered at Whitney Place Assisted Living Residences at Northborough and Whitney Place Assisted Living Residences at Westborough.
From left: Andy Zheng, Dana Garson, Sara Garner, Adelaide Johnson and Leo Renn (Photo/Marlborough Public Schools)
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – Community members had the chance to get up and close with the FIRST Robotics Team 467 Center of Mass robot at an open house at Shrewsbury High School in early November.
According to Shrewsbury High School senior and Team Lead Akhil Rao Narahari, the open house is a chance for the team to show the community, families and sponsors its robot.
Narahari has been on the team for four years.
“This team has really taught me a lot in terms of hard skills and soft skills. I’m very grateful for the opportunity to be part of this team,” he said.
Senior Sarah Harney has been on the team for three years and is the lead for manufacturing. As part of the team, Harney has been able to learn more about the STEM field. As a result, she’s planning on studying biomedical engineering in college.
“I really love the team. I’ve made so many amazing friends, and I’ve had so many great experiences,” she said.
The open house also featured demonstrations of the team’s robot, tours, FIRST LEGO League table and a station where kids could make buttons.
“We’re doing as much as possible to not only inspire the families of our team members, but also children. You see there’s quite a few children here, as well. We want to get them inspired about STEM because that is the future of this world,” said Narahari.
As part of its work, Shrewsbury Robotics holds presentations in the elementary schools. Team 467 learns a lot during the program and while building the robots, including skills like machinery, programming, soldering, electrical, inclusivity and communication.
“We’re learning that, but we also want to spread that to the younger kids as well because it also inspires them to come to this team later and learn STEM at a higher level,” said Narahari.
Team member Sid Gowtham said the team is one of his favorite things to do.
“I make a lot of friends here. It’s really fun. We learn a lot, and it’s something that you can apply in your life,” he said.
Top left: Team leads Akhil Rao Narahari, Agilan Kumar and Adam Nativ pose with the robot.
Top right: Dillon Harrington and Sid Gowtham man one of the booths at the open house.
Bottom left: August CaseyWilliams makes a button at the open house.
Bottom right: Ayesha Naveed, Khloe Cheng, Sarah Harney, Sid Gowtham and Zoe Tompsett pose for a group photo. (Photos/Laura Hayes)
Hudson Recreation announces Funniest Pet Videos Contest
By Sarah Freedman Contributing Writer
HUDSON – The Hudson Recreation Division is inviting all pet owners in town to submit funny and creative videos of their pets into the Hudson’s Funniest Pet Video Contest.
The contest will benefit the in-development dog park project at Sauta Fields. It will be done in conjunction with HUD-TV, which will compile the clips for a public screening in January.
Program Coordinator Tiffany Newton said when the Recreation Division was planning the Dog Days at Centennial Beach event, the topic of doing another dogfriendly event in the winter came up.
“This will just keep the community engaged and up to date with the dog park project,” she said.
To enter the contest, applicants will pay a $25 entry fee. The link to submit a video is https://forms.gle/rjjH4uJckn4YjwZ9A. People can also go to the Hudson Recreation website, www.hudsonrecreation.org, and by clicking the link applicants can pay the fee. Within, applicants will find a link to submit their video.
Newton said video clips should be limited to about 30 seconds each, and prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place.
The deadline to submit an entry is Dec. 31. When all of the videos have been collected, HUD-TV will put them together into a viewable format for a Jan. 16 screening at 6 p.m. at the Senior Center.
“As we were thinking about how to collect the videos in an easy way, it was suggested to us that HUD-TV might have the means to do that, and they did,” she said.
“ We are hoping that people who maybe don’t know about the dog park, but are interested in viewing (or submitting) the funniest pet videos, will come to the event and see our finalized plans.
Tiffany Newton Program Coordinator
All proceeds from the contest will be earmarked to support the future expenses of the dog park, such as “sit amenities, maintenance costs and/or special events created to benefit the park.”
Work on bringing a dog park to Hudson dates back nearly a decade. In late 2023, the Park Commission voted that the park will be built at Sauta Fields. According to plans presented to the commission in October, the park will be fenced and there will be a designated loop path with small and large dog areas.
There are many goals for Hudson’s Funniest Pet Videos Contest, including better exposure of the dog park project and community engagement about the process so far.
“We are hoping that people who maybe don’t know about the dog park, but are interested in viewing (or submitting) the funniest pet videos, will come to the event and see our finalized plans,” said Newton.
The goal is that people will learn about what the Recreation Division is doing with the park project, and then community members will become more involved. To that end, Hudson Recreation will be collecting information from anyone interested in becoming a member of the Friends of the Hudson Dog Park group.
Newton said, “We are still working on what exactly the friends will look like, but anyone who may be interested is encouraged to give us their information, and we will send out details as we work to form this group.”
For updates about the dog park project or the Hudson’s Funniest Pet Videos Contest, visit the Hudson Recreation website. For anyone interested in the contest details, call 978-568-9642 or email the Recreation Division at hudsonrecreation@townofhudson.org.
The Dog Days of Centennial was held in September to support the proposed dog park. (Photo/Sarah Freedman)
POLICE FIRE&
Southborough
Monday, Nov. 18
4:07 a.m. Arrested, Corey M. Sullivan, of Ridgewood Dr., Millbury, on warrant.
8:41 a.m. Arrested, Joao Granado, of Farmhouse Ln., Marlborough, for no inspection sticker, op MV with license suspended.
1:52 p.m. Boston Rd. Soliciting.
Tuesday, Nov. 19
7:54 a.m. Fisher Rd./Barn Ln. Animal complaint.
2:46 p.m. Valley Rd. Animal complaint.
4:15 p.m. Parkerville Rd. Larceny/ forgery/fraud.
Wednesday, Nov. 20
1:24 p.m. Marlboro Rd. Animal complaint.
Friday, Nov. 22
2:05 a.m. Arrested, Deshawn L. Huston, of Walnut St., Lynn, for op MV with license suspended.
12:48 p.m. Maplecrest Dr. Soliciting.
5:25 p.m. Sadie Hutt Ln. Complaint.
8:37 p.m. Schipper Farm Ln. Complaint.
Saturday, Nov. 23
9:24 a.m. Maplecrest Dr. Soliciting.
11:23 a.m. Turnpike Rd. Larceny.
8:38 p.m. (MAR) Maple St. Erratic operator.
Sunday, Nov. 24
12:38 a.m. Arrested, Robson H. Domingos-Alves, of Broad St., Marlborough, for number plate violation, unlicensed operation of MV, possess open container of alcohol in MV, possess Class B drug, warrant.
Northborough
Thursday, Nov. 21
9:30 a.m. Northgate Rd. Fraud.
10:43 a.m. Shops Way. Fraud.
Friday, Nov. 22
12:54 a.m. Arrested, David Stephan Goulet Jr., 29, of 85 Edgewater Dr., Apt. 1, Blackstone, for fail to stop/yield, speeding in violation special regulation, negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08% 2nd offense, MV lights violation.
6:28 p.m. Arrested, Walter A. Ramirez, 38, of 156 Uncatena Ave., Worcester, for op MV with license suspended subsequent offse, warrant.
6:51 p.m. Howard St. Vandalism.
Saturday, Nov. 23
6:38 p.m. Southwest Cut/King St. Shoplifting.
7:55 p.m. Arrested , Keyonna Slater, 31, of 744 W Onondaga St., Apt. 14, Syracuse, NY, for unlicensed operation of MV, MV lights violation, shoplifting by asportation 2nd offse, unlawful possession of theft detection device deactivator or remover (2 cts), receive stolen property +$1200.
10:16 p.m. Main St. Fraud.
10:59 p.m. Arrested, Ali Alexander, 48, of 5 ½ Bluff St., Worcester, for possess Class A drug, possess Class B drug, trafficking in more than 10 grams fentanyl. Monday, Nov. 25
6:34 a.m. Cold Harbor Dr. Stolen property.
10:27 a.m. Arrested, Rudyere Ramos Fonseca, 30, of 34 Summit St., Clinton, on warrant.
Tuesday, Nov. 26
6:20 a.m. Madison Rd. Animal calls.
9:40 a.m. South St. Vandalism.
Marlborough
Tuesday, Nov. 19
7:01 a.m. The Heights at Marlborough Apts/Briarwood Ln. Auto theft.
9:56 a.m. Susan Rd. Fraud/forgery.
11:22 a.m. Marlborough Hospital/Union St. Assault.
1:21 p.m. Whitcomb School/Union St. Harassment.
2:22 p.m. Wilson St./BPRE. MVA with injuries.
9:25 p.m. Brown St. Harassment. Wednesday, Nov. 20
6:07 a.m. Wilson St./BPRE. MVA with injuries.
8:10 a.m. Simpson Rd. Fraud/forgery.
12:02 p.m. Perry Ln. Larceny.
1:01 p.m. Mildon Ave. Vandalism.
1:26 p.m. Boivin Dr. Fraud/forgery.
3:17 p.m. Pleasant Court Condominiums/Pleasant St. Fraud/forgery.
3:44 p.m. Stevens St. Fraud/forgery. Thursday, Nov. 21
9:07 a.m. Western View Dr. Fraud/ forgery.
12:44 p.m. The Burrow (1st Building)/ Green District Blvd. Larceny.
3:38 p.m. Hannaford Super Market/ BPRW. Larceny.
10:24 p.m. Prospect St. Larceny. Friday, Nov. 22
8:53 a.m. Marlborough Hills Health Care/Northboro Road East. Assault.
10:30 a.m. Whitcomb School/Union St. Assault.
10:31 a.m. Goodnow Brothers Elementary School/Bolton St. Assault.
10:35 a.m. Whitcomb School/Union St. Harassment.
11:04 a.m. Royal Crest Apartment/Royal Crest Dr. Animal complaint.
7:41 p.m. Broad/West Main Sts. MVA with injuries.
8:38 p.m. Arrested, Joao DeAndrade, 43, of 29 Sumner St., Apt. 2, Marlborough, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, marked lanes violation, possess Class B drug, resist arrest, possess open container of alcohol in MV.
Saturday, Nov. 23
8:35 a.m. Lakeshore Dr. Fraud/forgery.
1:59 p.m. Martin St. Vandalism.
4:38 p.m. Arrested, Stephen Howard Sockol, 44, of 903 Applebriar Ln., Marlborough, for possess Class E drug, op MV with license suspended/revoked.
5:41 p.m. Orchard St. Fraud/forgery.
Sunday, Nov. 24
11:25 a.m. Azalea Ln. Threats.
1:23 p.m. Mechanic/Longley Sts. Animal complaint.
3:44 p.m. The Meadows at Marlborough/Broadmeadow Rd. MVA with injuries.
6:04 p.m. Los Amigos Barber Shop/ Hildreth St. Animal complaint.
6:29 p.m. Arrested, Sean T. King, 30, of 85 Broad St., Apt. 433, Marlborough, for disorderly conduct, resist arrest, vandalize property.
Shrewsbury
Thursday, Nov. 21
8:44 a.m. Lake St. B&E motor vehicle.
2:24 p.m. Straw Hollow Ln. Larceny.
2:27 p.m. Irving Dr. Larceny.
2:28 p.m. Main St. Dispute.
4:36 p.m. Gold St. Road hazard – trees/ wires/debris.
6:01 p.m. Arrested, William H. Sheffield, 59, of 13 Preston St., Apt. 3, Worcester, on warrant.
Friday, Nov. 22
2:21 a.m. Fifth Ave Row. Dispute.
7:01 a.m. Prospect St. Road hazard –trees/wires/debris.
9:11 a.m. Woodway Dr. Preserve the peace.
9:31 a.m. Green St. Animal complaint.
11:54 a.m. Grove St. Animal complaint.
6:36 p.m. South Quinsigamond/Boston Tpke. Road hazard – trees/wires/debris.
7:39 p.m. Lakeside Dr. Harassment. Saturday, Nov. 23
9:22 a.m. South Quinsigamond. Animal complaint.
9:57 a.m. Plainfield Ave. Animal complaint.
1:02 p.m. Arrested, Kenn J. Allain, 65, of 29 Ferry St., South Grafton, for possession Class E substance, possession Class B substance, poss Class B w/ intent to distribute (cocaine only), MV brakes violation.
6:03 p.m. Topsfield Cir. Dispute. Sunday, Nov. 24
3:49 p.m. Hartford Tpke. Road hazard – trees/wires/debris.
5:06 p.m. Edgemere Blvd. Road hazard – trees/wires/debris.
Monday, Nov. 25
7:22 a.m. parker Rd. Dispute.
8:42 a.m. Westmont Rd. Animal complaint.
9:06 a.m. Holden/Bow Sts. Illegal dumping.
6:28 p.m. South St. Identity theft.
Tuesday, Nov. 26
1:46 a.m. Holden St. Road hazard –trees/wires/debris.
11:54 a.m. Lakeside Dr. Harassment.
1:00 p.m. Lebeaux Dr. Identity theft. Wednesday, Nov. 27
5:28 a.m. 290 East 22.2 Mile Marker. Accident with injury.
10:30 a.m. Holden St. Animal complaint.
11:15 a.m. Brook St. Larceny.
11:46 a.m. Cherry St. Animal complaint.
12:12 p.m. Cherry St. Animal complaint.
1:03 p.m. Prospect St. Larceny.
Grafton
Monday, Nov. 18
12:12 p.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/ identity theft.
2:44 p.m. North St. Fire – structure.
4:18 p.m. Spanish River Rd. Road hazard.
4:37 p.m. Mayo Ct. Fire – illegal burning.
5:40 p.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/identity theft.
7:02 p.m. Worcester St./Hovey Pond Dr. Road hazard.
11:27 p.m. Providence Rd./Millbury St. Accident - with animal.
Tuesday, Nov. 19
8:20 a.m. Blackberry Ln. Fire – brush.
2:47 p.m. Main St. Fire – structure.
4:02 p.m. Worcester St. Illegal dumping. Wednesday, Nov. 20
7:45 a.m. N Main/Worcester Sts. Accident – personal injury.
9:17 a.m. Church St./Providence Rd. Road rage.
12:37 p.m. Arrested, Jason Michael Kenney, 47, of 74 Follette St., Grafton, on warrant.
5:09 p.m. Follette St. Keeping the peace.
5:15 p.m. N Main St. Keeping the peace.
5:39 p.m. Valley View Dr. Larceny/theft.
6:56 p.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/identity theft.
10:44 p.m. Mill St. Animal complaint. Thursday, Nov. 21
6:37 a.m. Worcester St. Accident – with animal.
11:03 p.m. Hartford Tpke. Fire – flooding.
Friday, Nov. 22
1:13 a.m. Greany Dr. Fire – gas odor.
5:14 a.m. Old Westboro Rd. Wires down.
3:20 p.m. Lincoln Ln. Harassment. Saturday, Nov. 23
7:35 p.m. Indian Path. Animal complaint.
7:56 p.m. (MI) Millbury Ave. Accidentpersonal injury.
Scan QR code to read this week’s police and fire news on our website.
Sunday, Nov. 24
4:42 p.m. Depot St. Road hazard.
5:28 p.m. Worcester/Hilltop Sts. Animal complaint.
6:47 p.m. Ray St. Harassment.
7:47 p.m. Patriot Way. Accident – hit & run.
8:01 p.m. Ray St. Harassment. Monday, Nov. 25
3:35 a.m. Lincoln Ln. Threatening.
7:43 a.m. Upton St./Old Upton Rd. Accident – personal injury.
4:03 p.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/identity theft.
5:16 p.m. Main St. Erratic operator. 6:21 p.m. Deernolm St. Fraud/identity theft.
Tuesday, Nov. 26
10:02 a.m. N Main/Worcester Sts. Traffic hazard.
6:00 p.m. Ray St. Accident – hit & run.
6:44 p.m. Pine St. Fire – gas odor.
Wednesday, Nov. 27
6:24 a.m. Wesson St./Magnolia Ln. Accident – with animal.
Thursday, Nov. 28
2:50 p.m. Countryside Rd. Fire – gas odor.
10:25 p.m. Arrested , Jessica Marie Padula, 51, of 31 Luka Dr., Grafton, for OUI-liquor or .08%, reckless operation of motor vehicle, possess open container of alcohol in MV.
Friday, Nov. 29
1:35 p.m. Bay St. Harassment.
4:44 p.m. Nipmuc Rd. Threatening. 11:05 p.m. Upton St. Threatening. Saturday, Nov. 30
8:21 a.m. Sunrise Ave. Fire – gas odor.
8:24 a.m. Maxwell Dr. Harassment.
12:04 p.m. Forest Ln. Threatening.
Sunday, Dec. 1
9:20 a.m. Robin Dr./Adams Rd. Traffic hazard.
12:35 p.m. Brookmeadow Ln. Fire – illegal burning.
Westborough
Monday, Nov. 18
2:20 a.m. Connector Rd. Fire, smoke. 4:45 p.m. W Main St. Identity theft.
7:32 p.m. Chauncy St. B&E in MV. Tuesday, Nov. 19
7:36 a.m. E Main St. AC, animal removal. 8:05 a.m. Milk St. Erratic operator. 9:16 a.m. Flanders Rd. Accident – hit & run.
10:05 a.m. Turnpike Rd. Trespass tow. 10:36 a.m. Hopkinton Rd. Larceny. 11:27 a.m. Oldham Rd. AC, animal inspection.
11:52 a.m. W Main St. AC, animal inspection.
10:14 p.m. Arrested, Tina Lynn Lunn, 47, of 534 Cambridge St., Worcester, shoplifting 3rd offse straight warrant. Wednesday, Nov. 20
8:04 a.m. Union St. Assault.
1:44 p.m. Arrested, Brittany Rudolph, 34, of 258 Weir St., Taunton, on warrant. 4:18 p.m. Old Nourse St. AC, animal inspection.
5:06 p.m. E Main St. Erratic operator. Thursday, Nov. 21
11:09 a.m. Turnpike Rd./Lyman St. Road/tree.
3:29 p.m. E Main St. Trespass tow. Friday, Nov. 22
6:18 a.m. Milk St. Fire, wires down. 9:39 a.m. Upton Rd. Fire, wires down. 12:01 p.m. Haskell St. Larceny. 7:53 p.m. Prospect St. Trespassing. Saturday, Nov. 23
5:31 p.m. Turnpike Rd./Milk St. Erratic operator.
11:28 a.m. Turnpike Rd./Computer Dr. Erratic operator.
12:20 p.m. E Main St. Erratic operator. 2:18 p.m. Lyman St. Accident – hit & run.
8:24 p.m. Friberg Pkwy. Threats made. Sunday, Nov. 24
9:44 a.m. Arrested, Samuel Taste, 50, of 25 Mount Ida Rd., Dorchester, on warrant.
10:38 a.m. Flanders Rd. Road/tree. 1:02 p.m. Flanders Rd. Road/tree. 2:58 p.m. E Main/Haskell Sts. Road/tree.
PUZZLE ANSWERS
Midland-Wachusett League announces 2024 fall all-star selections
By Evan Walsh Reporter
REGION – The Midland-Wachusett League has announced the 2024 fall all-stars.
The Midland-Wachusett League includes Algonquin Regional High School, Shrewsbury High School, Marlborough High School, Westborough High School, Hudson High School and 25 other schools throughout Central Massachusetts.
See the full list of all-stars in the Community Advocate coverage area here:
FOOTBALL
Shrewsbury (Division A)
Jarrett Ellis (Offensive Team)
Ethan LePoer (Offensive Team)
Darius Gibbons (Defensive Team)
Ryan Iagallo (Defensive Team)
Ryan Keddy (Defensive Team)
Matthias Desai (Academic)
Algonquin (Division A)
Owen Ellsworth (Offensive)
Dominic Frallicciardi (Defensive Team MVP)
Gavin Butterfield (Defensive Team)
Kyriakos Ciccone (Defensive Team)
Jordan Lopez (Special Teams)
Henry Rogers (Defensive Team)
Nicholas Klein (Academic)
Marlborough (Division B)
Noah Sowden (Offensive Team MVP)
Michael Benway (Offensive Team)
Jake Roy (Offensive Team)
Luis Vallejo Salem (Offensive Team)
Sheamus Mahoney (Defensive Team)
Calvin McFarlane (Special Teams)
Patrick Haviland (Academic)
Westborough (Division B)
Ivan Diaz (Offensive Team)
Andrew Piscotta (Offensive Team)
Brady Chapman (Defensive MVP)
Thomas Cashman (Defensive Team)
Ben Friedberg (Defensive Team)
Liam Lajoie (Defensive Team)
Jake Martin (Defensive Team)
Terrell Messam (Defensive Team)
Sam Wickline (Defensive Team)
Eric Last (Academic)
Hudson (Division C)
Jake Attaway (Offensive MVP)
Joe Edie (Offensive Team, Academic)
Brandon Figueiredo (Offensive Team)
Cam Yates (Offensive Team)
Nolan Yates (Offensive Team)
Damian Chaves (Defensive Team)
Dom Chaves (Defensive Team)
Toby Edie (Defensive Team)
Garrett Giorgio (Defensive Team)
Ben Jackson (Defensive Team)
Owen Nanartowich (Defensive MVP)
Roy Gao (Academic)
BOYS SOCCER
Shrewsbury (Division A)
Tedi Ajazi (First Team)
Harris Yang (First Team, Academic)
Brandon Curtis (Second Team)
Jayden Dullea (Second Team)
Declan Daley (Second Team)
Finn Daley (Second Team)
Algonquin (Division A)
Caden Hansen (CO-MVP)
Zach Ruthfield (CO-MVP)
Rowan Miller (First Team)
Max Oelkers (First Team)
Alex Deschaine (Second Team)
Abhi Padala (Second Team)
Amer Khan (Academic)
Westborough (Division A)
Thom Maule (Second Team)
Yujiang Zhu (Second Team, Academic)
Hudson (Division B)
Melvin Alfaro (First Team)
Nico Giorgi Woodford (First Team)
Thomas Downin (Second Team)
Henry Sa (Second Team)
Danny Sibilosky (Second Team)
Maxwell Woods (Academic)
Marlborough (Division B)
Nicholas L’Abbe (MVP)
Joao Victor DaSilva (First Team)
Kainan Gomes (First Team, Academic)
Doni Ramirez Lopez (First Team)
Alvaro Guardado (Second Team)
Edgar Perez (Second Team)
GIRLS SOCCER
Shrewsbury (Division A)
Elliot Griswold (First Team)
Aashi Gupta (First Team, Academic)
Josie Sawyer (First Team)
Mia Carll (Second Team)
Hailey Snyder (Second Team)
Algonquin (Division A)
Olivia DeMember (First Team)
Mary Cate Megan (First Team)
Caity O’Hearn (Second Team)
Katie Richmond (Second Team)
Ella Timmins (Second Team)
Amelia Bhisitkul (Academic)
Westborough (Division A)
Molly Courchesne (First Team)
Addison Potenti (First Team)
Caroline Queenan (First Team)
Jessica Braden (Second Team)
Regan Sullivan (Second Team)
Ashley Huang (Academic)
Hudson (Division B)
Anna Iacobucci (First Team)
Algonquin’s Lindsey Brown (left) is the MidWach Division A MVP in field hockey. (Photo/Evan Walsh)
Emma Leonardo (First Team, Academic)
Makenna McGuire (Second Team)
Layne Thomason (Second Team)
Marlborough (Division B)
Abigail Healy (First Team)
Carly Bamford (Academic)
FIELD HOCKEY
Shrewsbury (Division A)
Elizabeth Rondinelli (First Team)
Victoria Santiago (Second Team)
Chloe Rydelek (Academic)
Algonquin (Division A)
Lindsey Brown (MVP)
Annelise Gingrich (First Team)
Abi Southey (First Team)
Meredith Wu (First Team, Academic)
Taylor Mieth (Second Team)
Hannah Regan (Second Team)
Marlborough (Division B)
Emerson Gaudette (First Team)
Kacie Horn (First Team)
Maggie Horn (First Team)
Avery Horrigan (Second Team)
Ava McLeod (Second Team)
Keira Manning (Second Team)
Abigail Carroll (Academic)
Westborough (Division B)
Jillian Degnan (First Team)
Sam Kelley (Second Team)
Anna Ellis (Academic)
Hudson (Division C)
Liv Connolly (First Team)
Amanda Perry (First Team)
Janie Brunelle (Second Team)
Brianna Ouellette (Second Team)
Emma Wood (Academic)
VOLLEYBALL
Shrewsbury (Division A)
Lauren Albertson (First Team)
Gianna Boyers (First Team)
Claire Troy (Second Team)
Ava Lynch (Academic)
Algonquin (Division A)
Grace Chiota (First Team)
Katy O’Connell (Second Team)
Westborough (Division A)
Georgia Tyrrell (MVP)
Sam Norman (First Team)
Montana Weaver (First Team)
Kathleen O’Reilly (Second Team)
Morgan Oberlee (Academic)
Hudson (Division B)
Sydney Medeiros (First Team)
Emma Burney (Second Team)
Olivia Scafidi (Second Team)
Jennifer Yates (Second Team)
Jennie Cassidy (Academic)
Marlborough (Division C)
Vienna Belli (First Team)
Ella Hobin (First Team)
Julianna Aristizabal-Grisales (Second Team)
Olivia Gould (Second Team)
Adelaide Johnson (Academic)
BOYS GOLF
Shrewsbury (Division A)
Ryan Kelley
Brendan McDonough
Syed Noorwez (All-Star and Academic)
Algonquin (Division A)
Liam Dunn
Justin Rotaru (Academic)
Westborough (Division A)
Coby Ehrlich
Aaron Zhang (Academic)
Marlborough (Division B)
Jake Matros
Eric Kneissler (Academic)
Hudson (Division D)
Anthony Moura
William Sawyer
Ben Hillis (Academic)
BOYS CROSS COUNTRY
Shrewsbury (Division A)
Noah Csank (All-Star and Academic)
Chris Guerin
Havish Thotakura
Francesco Villani
Giuseppe Villani
Algonquin (Division A)
Trent Bedard
Jonah Gould
Stephen Green
Yuhi Kashii (Academic)
Marlborough (Division B)
Michael Antwi-Ayim
Andrew Naim (All-Star and Academic)
Hudson (Division C)
Jason Blake (All-Star and Academic)
Andrew Klinedinst
Oliver Mello
GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY
Shrewsbury (Division A)
Greta Nickerson
Anusha Laha (Academic)
Algonquin (Division A)
Tanvi Mehta
Colleen Reed (Academic)
Westborough (Division A)
Clare Hall
Regan Kittredge
Gauthami Sreedhar (Academic)
Marlborough (Division B)
Yanira Uribe Rosa (Academic)
Hudson (Division C)
Julia Klinedinst (All-Star and Academic)
Algonquin rallies to earn victory over Westborough on Turkey Day
By Evan Walsh Reporter
NORTHBOROUGH – Thanksgiving Day football is always meaningful. And this year, Algonquin had more to play for.
In September, Algonquin legend Richard J. “Dick” Walsh died at 92. He started coaching the football team in 1957, when Algonquin was still Northborough High School, and over the next 23 years, he won a schoolrecord 134 games, including leading the team to an undefeated 10-0 season and Super Bowl championship in 1973.
The man became immortalized in Algonquin football culture — the school’s field bears his name, he was inducted into Algonquin’s Hall of Fame, and the Thanksgiving Day trophy is named after him and Westborough legend Joseph Mewhiney.
It was Algonquin that held that trophy high on Turkey Day. In the pouring rain, the Titans defeated the Westborough Rangers to the tune of
22-20, earning bragging rights until the next rivalry contest. Walsh’s sons — Michael and John Walsh — were on-hand to present the trophy to the team.
“It’s the first year on the
turf, which I think is a statement. But we lost Coach Walsh — he’s such a strong figure in the community and school — and then we lost another assistant coach [Mel Laughton]
HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE
The best and most wonderful gifts of the holiday season cannot be bought, nor are they are wrapped in boxes and bows. The gift of family and friends is what matters most! Please join us as we celebrate the season. Enjoy some delicious food and raise a glass of holiday cheer with us.
RSVP: Melissa Berardo, 508-841-3375 mberardo@residenceorchardgrove.com
a week ago, I think. Doing it for them, it brought a lot of love to the game for us today. They played for them, and it really showed,” said Algonquin Coach Mark Allen.
“I’m proud to bring the trophy home for Coach Walsh,” he added.
The Titans led 8-7 after halftime, but that one-point lead wouldn’t withstand a third quarter that was actionpacked from the opening seconds. Westborough’s kick-off was a line-drive rocket that bounced off an Algonquin player; the Rangers recovered the ball, and moments later, a 41-yard touchdown by Brady Chapman put Westborough ahead 13-8.
That wasn’t the end of the craziness in the third quarter. After each of the next two drives ended in interceptions, a pass from Algonquin quarterback Will Mahoney was tipped and intercepted (again) by Liam Lajoie, who took the ball into the end zone for a pick-6 and extended Westborough’s lead to 20-8.
Without momentum and forced to give the ball to Westborough once more, Algonquin seemed down for the count.
Algonquin | 34
Can We Do For You? College Coaching: Individually and In Groups Supporting students at every stage of their college bound journey. College Counseling Our counselors can meet with students to work on just one component of the application or all of them.
Secondary School Placement
We help students at every stage of the application process. College Coaching Cohort Program
Street, Shrewsbury
Looking for a grade-specific college advising program that will connect your students to others in their grade level, offer college knowledge, support and guidance while encouraging some valuable, pre-college prep work?
Algonquin celebrates earning the Joseph Mewhiney-Richard Walsh trophy. (Photo/Evan Walsh)
Algonquin rallies to earn victory over Westborough on Turkey Day
Algonquin | from page 33
But Jordan Lopez — one of 14 Algonquin seniors — had something to say about it. Lopez intercepted a Westborough pass and returned the ball deep into their territory. On 4th-and-goal, a play that could’ve ended the Titans’ hopes had it not been ssuccessful, Mahoney lobbed a perfect ball to Lopez, who outmuscled the defender to make the score 20-16.
“We had two weeks to prepare, so we knew them like the back of our hands,” Lopez told the Community Advocate. “When it’s a passing situation — we just know. I saw it, and I took it. I’m speechless. It was just big play after big play, and they all racked up. It was super important, and I’m happy we won … It was our last game as a group, and at halftime we all talked about it, and we wanted to finish strong.”
Algonquin was far from perfect in this contest, but with such determination, they haven’t had to be.
“That’s kind of the definition of us for the year — resilient. We lost games I felt like we were in and should have won, and we won games when we felt like we were out. This displayed the resilience of the team. We played tough, we made mistakes, the weather impacted it — but they’re mentally tough; they finished. I’m proud as heck of them,” said Allen.
After the Titans’ defense made a crucial stop against Westborough on fourth down,
Owen Ellsworth scored to put Algonquin ahead 22-20 and give the team the coveted Thanksgiving Day win. In just one short year, Ellsworth and the other seniors have helped transform Algonquin from a 2-9 team to a 5-6 group that competes in the playoffs.
“They’ve left a legacy that the underclassmen can build off of in the offseason. I’m proud of those guys, I love those guys, and they’re leaving the program a lot stronger than they found it,” said Allen.
Algonquin’s Harry Manning sprints forward as his teammates block.
Harry Manning (right) celebrates with his O-line. (Photos/Evan Walsh)
‘Heart of the team’: Connolly leaves her mark
Connolly | from page 1 softball at a young age. Connolly’s mother, a former field hockey player at Salve Regina University, wanted to get her daughter involved and brought her to clinics around the local area. That’s where Connolly found her love of the sport. At age 10, she was playing club field hockey. Two years later — as a seventh-grade student — she joined Hudson High School’s program, which received a waiver to allow her to play.
“In seventh grade, I was a little nervous. Once I got into it and was with my team, it was fun. The team has always been really fun. We’ve always had great energy. I like being with everybody,” said Connolly, who made the varsity team as an eighth-grader.
Connolly had an early start to her softball career as well, playing tee-ball with Hudson Youth Baseball and Softball (HYBS) as a child. She’s spent time with a handful of travel softball teams — including Hudson Demolition and Polar Crush Softball — and was the designated player for the Hawks as an eighth-grader. Connolly became the starting third-baseman the next year and was named a team captain for her sophomore season.
“Being able to fill [the captain] role is exciting — our captains last year were so great. I love all the girls so much, and just being able to lead the team with Taylor [Attaway] and Lauren [O’Malley] is going to be a lot of fun. We’ll pick people up and hopefully we’ll have another run,” said Connolly. “Softball is kind of big here … When I was younger I wanted to play on the varsity team. It was a dream of mine. I looked up to those girls. It’s fun to be able to play with them.”
Beyond the statistics
Though Connolly is statistically an excellent player in both sports — she was one of the top field hockey scorers in Mid-Wach-C, and she’s hitting .349 in softball — coaches unanimously agree that her perseverance and energy make her truly great. Whether it’s an end-of-practice drill or a match-defining scramble for the ball, Connolly can be trusted to give 100% effort. Always sprinting around during practice, Head Field Hockey Coach Jennifer Wallingford said she’s
never had to tell Connolly to “pick up the pace.”
“She’s fearless in every setting. She’s never drained, she never has a battery that dies. She just keeps going until a whistle is blown. She digs it out and gets the job done. You can’t teach those things. You’re just that type of a player,” said Lau-
rie Sachs, an assistant coach with the field hockey program.
“She’s truly all-in, all the time.”
“I’ve been coaching Liv since she was eight years old, so obviously she’s super special to me. ... It doesn’t matter if it’s a scrimmage, regular-season game, or state championship. She’s going to give you ev -
erything she has in every moment,” said Bowen.
And then there’s Connolly’s energy.
In the softball semifinal against Apponequet, Connolly’s enthusiasm and energy could be noticed by even the casual observer. As she pulled into second base, she looked toward the dugout and began jumping, screaming, shouting, pumping her fists — you name it — to get her teammates engaged in the game. An inning later she slid headlong into home plate, sending a plume of dust and chalk into the air, and immediately jumped up and high-fived and hugged her teammates.
“I like to cheer people on. My teammates react to me, and seeing how it can spread throughout the team is amazing. It spreads to everybody and makes me feel good,” Connolly said. “I’m just able to go in and try my best. Having my teammates with me — by my side, cheering me on — is always fun. Being able to recip-
rocate that and cheering them on, that’s really fun as well. It makes me excited. Having all that energy going with everyone, it makes it easy to go up and down the field.”
“At its most basic, sport is fun. Hard-work and winning, that’s all important, too, but we’re out here because we love the game. We love being active. When Liv embodies that, her enthusiasm is — it’s what I want my program to be. We’re out here because it’s fun to play field hockey,” Wallingford explained. “She’s the spark on the team.”
Sure, Connolly hasn’t quite hit the 5-foot mark, but her impact on Hudson athletics is anything but small. She’s focused on supporting her teammates, putting maximum effort into everything she does, and contributing whatever she can to Hudson’s field hockey, softball, and — as of this winter — basketball programs.
“She’s truly the heart of the team. I think people just feed off her energy,” said Bowen.
Liv Connolly celebrates Sam Collette’s run during the championship game against the Dighton-Rehoboth Falcons. (Photo/Laura Hayes)
