Community Center costs remain a question
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – A meeting about the community center project provided some updates and answers, but some questions still remain.
During a presentation to the Select Board and Municipal Building Committee (MBC) on Wednesday, Jan. 8, Joel Bargmann of BH+A Architecture discussed the latest cost estimates.
Members of both committees voiced concerns on what needs to be repaired or replaced, especially the roof; and items that either will or might appear on this spring’s Town Meeting warrant. They also wanted some clarity on when the project — especially the senior center — could commence.
In December, in response to concerns about rising property taxes, the Select Board decided to postpone a request to construct a senior center until at least the fall of 2025. This was done to allow the Westborough Public Library repair Community Center | 5
Bus bids rejected by local school committees
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor
NORTHBOROUGH/SOUTHBOROUGH
– The Northborough, Southborough and Regional School Committees have rejected the two bids received for the transportation contract during a joint meeting on Jan. 13.
The lowest bid would have resulted in a 45% increase to the daily rate per bus for fiscal 2026.
Several committee members said that going to Northborough and Southborough for more money for the same service would be difficult.
“Particularly in this budget climate, I think we owe it to the students and to the community to see if we can do something different to get a better contract, recognizing that there is going to be an increase and that’s a tough place to be anyways,” said Regional School Committee member Sean O’Shea.
Local business provides restrooms for presidential inauguration
Westborough-based Clean Restroom Rentals is providing more than 550 portable restrooms to the Presidential Inauguration on Monday, Jan. 20.
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – There will be a special local connection at the Presidential Inauguration on Monday, Jan. 20.
Clean Restroom Rentals, with a home office at 200 Friberg Parkway and facilities along the East Coast, is providing more than 550 portable restrooms that will be placed at the Capitol Building, West Lawn, Reflection Pond and the National Mall.
About 470 units will be the standard, one-person restrooms; there will also be 80 wheelchair-accessible restrooms, three luxury trailer units (10 stalls in each unit, plus sinks), and eight hand sanitizer stations.
“We’re super excited for the opportunity,” said Anthony Spitalieri, chief Business Development officer for Clean. “It’s a big deal for us. We were not the only bidders.”
Spitalieri said the process included placing a bid and working with the architect of the U.S. Capitol.
“There were background checks, staging yards. They were great to work with,” he said.
Most of the restrooms were delivered from Clean’s facilities elsewhere on the East Coast. The luxury trailers were provided by Clean’s Boston area division.
“They’re really nice,” said Karina Kellar, director of business operations, about the trailers.
The Inauguration joins other big events using Clean for its restroom needs, including King Richard’s Faire, NASCAR, the LPGA, Live Nation and the Topsfield Fair, among others.
“We have a really good reputation,” said Spitalieri.
In addition to portable restrooms, Clean can also provide portable wash stations and shower trailers.
Innovative approaches
Portable restrooms usually bring out the “potty humor” and stories full of stink and flat-out grossness.
Yes, the Clean folks know all the jokes. However, they also place a very high emphasis on portable restrooms that are clean, deodorized and stocked.
“We try to be cutting edge,” said Anthony Spitalieri. “We’re passionate about it.”
Sustainability is also high on Clean’s list of priorities. The portable restrooms are made from recycled plastic; the fleet of trucks has pressure washers that use less water than hoses; and the cleaning products are biodegradable and nontoxic.
Clean recently implemented a pro -
Boston Lawnmower opens at Bridle Lane location
Stay up to date with all the news!
Algonquin wins battle of Central Mass. girls hockey teams westborough | 11 shrewsbury | 14 grafton | 16 Sports | 22
New SHS course would address need for sporting officials Grafton Police seizes $38,000 in cash and drugs
COMMUNITY NEWS
Seventh Day Adventists plan move to Westborough
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – The Atlantic Union Conference of the Seventh Day Adventist Church is planning to move from Lancaster to an office building at 287 Turnpike Road.
The deal was finalized on Tuesday, Nov. 26, according to Worcester Registry of Deeds records.
The religious organization
purchased the site for $6.4 million from Baltic Turnpike LLC; the property includes a 48,000-square-foot, threestory building and 192 parking spaces on nearly 16 acres of land.
The Atlantic Union Conference plans to use the site as its new headquarters.
In a press release, Abraham J. Jules, Atlantic Union Conference president, said, “Today, we are filled with immense gratitude and praise to the Lord
for this moment. While our current office has faithfully served us for decades, it has become clear that it no longer meets the needs of our mission in the 21st century.”
The move, expected in the second quarter of 2025, was described as a strategic step toward future growth and ministry expansion.
“This new office is more than just a building,” said Elias F. Zabala, Sr., Atlantic Union Con-
Committee conducts survey on speed limits
NORTHBOROUGH – The Traffic Safety Committee is conducting a survey on speed limits.
In 2016, Gov. Charlie Baker signed the Acts of 2016, which includes a section to allow municipalities to opt-in to reduce “the statutory speed limit from 30 mph to 25 mph on any or all city- or town-owned roadways
within a thickly settled or business district,” according to the survey.
A statutory speed limit exists in the absence of special speed regulations and official posted speed limits. Eight-five municipalities have implemented a speed reduction.
All of the surveys should
be completed by Feb. 7. Paper copies can be returned to the Northborough Free Library, Senior Center or DPW Office in Town Hall.
The survey can be found at https://www.town.northborough.ma.us/home/news/traffic-safety-committee-speedlimit-survey.
ference treasurer. “It represents a step forward in our mission, ensuring we are equipped to carry the message of hope and service to the world.”
Ted A. Huskins, Atlantic Union Conference executive secretary, highlighted the building’s central location and potential.
“Its design supports expanding ministries and creates a welcoming base for collaboration. It’s a space for ministry to flourish in a changing population and digital world,” Huskins said.
While in Lancaster, it ran Atlantic Union College, which closed in 2018.
The Marlborough Commuter Shuttle
The 14 – passenger handicap-accessible shuttle connects local commuters and employees between the City of Marlborough and the Southborough MBTA Commuter Rail. The commuter route includes three round trips in the morning and in the evening to and from the business park at 200 Forest Street/ Campus Drive, Apex Center of New England, and downtown Marlborough. This option provides free public transportation for those who take the train to and/or from Boston & Worcester.
Monday through Friday
Morning Trips: 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.
Afternoon/Evening Trips: 3:45 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Any questions or concerns, please contact us at 508-229-2010 or info@marlboroughedc.com
Atlantic Union Conference of the Seventh Day Adventist Church is moving to an office building at 287 Turnpike Road Westborough. (Photo/Courtesy of Loopnet)
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Turning the Tide: A Personal Journey in Reducing Single-Use Plastic
I can still recall the simplicity of my childhood, where sustainability wasn’t a word we used, but a way of life. At community gatherings in the local temple, it was customary for everyone to bring their own plates from home. We ate, we cleaned, and took them back, leaving no burden of waste behind. Today, I often wonder if such traditions will ever return as we grapple with the environmental threats of modern convenience.
We live in a throwaway culture, where disposable items — bags, cutlery, plates, bottles, packaging — dominate our daily lives. Yet, this convenience comes at an unimaginable cost. According to Charles Moore, who discovered the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, humanity’s plastic footprint is probably more dangerous than its carbon footprint. Every piece of plastic we discard doesn’t just vanish; it lingers, often for hundreds of years, wreaking havoc on the environment.
LETTERS
TO THE
EDITOR
to rely on disposable items for the sake of convenience. But the more I learned about the devastating effects of single-use plastics, the more I realized I needed to change. Now, when I leave the house, I make sure to carry a reusable water bottle, cutlery, and container. There have been moments when I’ve found myself without them and faced the temptation of using a disposable item. In those instances, I improvise!
I believe in the power of individual action. When we begin changing our own habits, we initiate a chain reaction, inspiring those around us to change. It’s not just about reducing waste but about shifting mindsets. Every refusal of a singleuse bag, every reusable bottle filled, is a step towards healing our planet!
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.
classified 18 obituaries
HUDSON – The region experienced its first snow of 2025 on Jan. 11. This photo shows the snowfall around the rotary in downtown Hudson. For more photos, visit communityadvocate.com. (Photo/Tami White) business 10 schools 14 police & fire 16 legal notices 17
Over the years, I’ve made a conscious effort to reduce my plastic footprint. Like many of us, I used
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The saying goes, “We don’t inherit the Earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children.” It’s our responsibility to protect and preserve the Earth’s beauty for us and those who come after us. As we enter 2025, let’s resolve to make this a year of change — cherishing the planet we’ve been given and fighting to preserve it, one choice at a time!
Sunita Razdan, Shrewsbury
Making Hard Cider
Hard cider is made by fermenting the juice of apples, resulting in a refreshing alcoholic beverage with a variety of flavors. It begins with selecting apples, often a blend of sweet, tart, and bitter varieties, to achieve balance. These apples are washed, crushed, and pressed to release their juice. The juice is then placed into a fermentation vessel, and yeast is added to kick-start fermentation, which converts the sugars into alcohol and carbon dioxide. Fermentation usually lasts from one to three weeks, depending on the cider’s intended sweetness or dryness. Once fermentation is complete, the cider is filtered to remove sediment and may be carbonated for added sparkle. After aging for a few weeks, the hard cider is bottled.
At JULIO’S LIQUORS we cater to all levels of experience and take pleasure in encouraging all our customers to learn more about whiskey 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! We carry many hard-to-find items from high-end vodkas and gins to single malt scotches. PH: 508-366-1942
P.S. Maintaining a cool, consistent temperature during fermentation is crucial for preserving the desired flavors of hard cider.
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
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• 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!
Community Center costs, timing remain a question
project to come before Town Meeting.
While plans for the senior center won’t be part of the warrant this spring, other portions of the community center project will come forth.
Plans to repair the pool will come before Town Meeting as part of the Capital Improvement Plan. Current costs total $406,521, and the project would include replacing the pool liner; pool fittings and deck equipment; pool filtration system and equipment; and soft costs.
The project to replace the rooftop heating, ventilation and air conditioning units is also likely to come before Town Meeting, according to Town Manager Kristi Williams.
Total costs are estimated at $989,500. These costs include equipment and labor; replacement of the “poolpak” (to maintain the swimming pool); testing, inspection and commissioning; and contingency. The HVAC units (but not the poolpak) would qualify for MassSave rebates totaling
COMMUNITY CENTER PROJECT TIMELINE
$523,250 for a total cost to the town of $466,250.
The company charged with the roof repair, Greenwood Industries, recommended having the HVAC units replaced before repairs to the roof begin — a recommendation that Bargmann backed up. Roof repairs are currently estimated at $249,800. This cost includes repairs; anticipated damage during HVAC replacement; re-warranty of the roof; and contingency.
MBC Chair Al Gordon said while the units are still working, “they’re getting to the point” where they need to be replaced.
Select Board member Shelby Marshall said she supports the
staggered approach being used to phase in the project and appreciated getting the latest cost estimates.
“I remain largely in support of what we’re doing here and the timing of the phasing [of the project],” said Marshall.
She also approved of the decision to have the library use the community center as temporary space should its repair project be approved at the Annual Town Meeting this March.
“What I don’t know right now, and many people have approached me on this, is what is the start timing of the community center,” she said.
Other cost estimates
Senior Center – Had the project been approved for funding in May 2025, the total costs would have been $9.892 million. This figure includes construction; furniture, fixtures, audio/visual and IT equipment; soft costs (including an on-site representative overseeing the project); and contingency.
Bargmann also presented escalation costs for inflation.
Should the project begin in the fall, $169,000 would be added to the total. A start date of April 2026 would add $276,000 to the total; should the project begin in April 2027, the additional costs would be $522,000.
Alternate Costs for Senior Center – A new elevator to
the second floor would cost $981,000; a new stairway to the second floor would be $228,000. Both alternates, if approved, would be located close to the center of the first floor, between the senior center and where the library would be temporarily located.
The cost to build two new program rooms on the first floor would be $880,000; a new accessible entrance to the proposed auditorium would be $626,000; and a new emergency generator for the building would cost $548,000. The generator could be covered with a state grant, since it would qualify the center as an emergency shelter.
Exterior Wall Repairs – The costs to repair and replace mortar joints, damaged bricks, window sealant joints and do exterior painting would be about $75,000.
Site Repair Costs – The costs to repair the parking lot and to repair the sidewalk, retaining walls and landscape areas, as well as contingency costs, would be $50,000.
SPIRITUAL CORNER
Father Vasile Aileni’s journey to St. Nicholas Roman Orthodox Church
By Matt LaBarre Contributing Writer
SHREWSBURY – Father Vasile
Aileni’s journey to becoming a priest took many turns.
“No matter how well people look, so many of us feel lost, lonely, and anxious,” said Aileni, who serves at St. Nicholas Romanian Orthodox Church. “Our hope is when people walk through the doors of our church they feel accepted, forgiven, and loved.”
After working in law enforcement and as an IT consultant, he was introduced to All Saints Romanian Orthodox church in Toronto. He became active in the church and later returned part-time to school with the goal of becoming ordained while also supporting his wife and three children.
Aileni was ordained in 2013. He served as the priest of his church for 10 years before he was asked by His Eminence
Nicholai Metropolitan to consider coming to St. Nicholas, located at 34 Gold St. in Shrewsbury.
Decades ago, the congregation was composed primarily of people who had moved to Central Mass. from Romania. St. Nicholas Romanian Orthodox Church is now very diverse with
Westborough Office Space
the overwhelming majority of members no longer of Romanian background.
“Our mission is to bring people of any color, background, or language to our family here at St. Nicholas, and extend our love to them,” said Aileni. “No church is filled with saintly people, but imperfect people.”
According to Aileni, the St. Nicholas community was larger in the 1950s because as people immigrated to the area, they brought their faith with them. Over the past two to three generations, people in the United States have become more secular and less interested in a relationship with God or the church.
“But no matter how well-off people are financially, if people don’t have faith and God they end up lonely, anxious, and depressed, which we see all around us,” said Aileni. “I see so many people who are suffering because they don’t have God in their lives and they don’t have many others who care about them, which you can experience in a church community.”
“We want to bring people back home,” he said.
St. Nicholas Church is unique in that it is home to relics from two saints — St. Nicholas and St. Nektarios. According to
Aileni, the relics are important as signs of God.
“We experience many different signs of God, from sunrises to loving relationships in our own lives,” he said. “These relics are small parts of these saints’ bodies, and they are signs of God and for some, a way to deepen their relationships between themselves and saints and God.”
The congregation is growing, and there are many ongoing ministries and programs such as the choir and catechism classes. The church is also involved in a number of community projects such as electronics recycling.
“If you find yourself feeling lonely and lost and anxious and without a community to care about you, come and see us,” Aileni said.
Sunday service is at 9 a.m., or visit the church’s website at: www.stnicholaschurch.org for additional information.
Father Vasile Aileni stands in front of the altar in St. Nicholas Roman Orthodox Church. (Photo/Matt LaBarre)
Bus bids rejected by local school committees
Bus bid | from page 1 ask they have four spare drivers that were specifically dedicated to our district,” she said.
Bids
The Public Schools of Northborough and Southborough received the two bids on Dec. 16 from the current provider NRT and First Student.
According to Assistant Superintendent of Finance Rebecca Pellegrino, the current three-year contract began in 2020 with the option to extend it into fiscal years 2024 and 2025. The contract included 32 total buses. In fiscal year 2021, the daily rate was $347.19 per bus per day, and by fiscal 2025, the daily rate increased to $375.81 per bus per day. The daily bus rates are shared by the three school districts.
As the lowest bidder, NRT’s proposed daily rate was $544.99, or a 45.02% increase over the current daily rate. The total fiscal year 2026 contract would be $3.1 million; Northborough’s share would be $690,611.33 and Southborough’s $596,437.06. The Regional District’s share would be $1,852,094.02, prior to the regional transportation reimbursement.
The contract would increase by 3% annually through fiscal 2030.
First Student’s proposed daily rate was $681.62, or a 81.37% increase over the current daily rate. The total contract would be $3.9 million with Northborough’s share being $863,748.86 and Southborough’s $745,964.93. The Regional District’s share would be $2,316,417.41 prior to reimbursement.
The contract calls for annual increases of 5%.
Superintendent Greg Martineau said the district already negotiated with NRT and there were no changes to the price.
Contract terms
According to Pellegrino’s presentation, the proposed transportation contract included language that the buses would be no more than five years old and have no more than 60,000 original miles at the beginning of each contract year.
Another change was that the contract required the contractor to have four substitute drivers specifically dedicated for the school district in event of absences.
“What we find is that they do not have enough substitutes in place when we require them. So, in this bid document, we did
The district also added language to transport students for the Extended School Year. Under previous contracts, late buses were included in the daily rate. The proposed contracts included separate rates for the late buses.
The contract also included
a provision that the contractor would be expected to create and update the bus routes, and it asked for the contractor to employ a bus dispatcher that would be dedicated to the district. While there are video cameras on all of the buses, the district requested the ability to review the audio and video in real time.
There were two alternatives
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with
and when
through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.”
—Isaiah
43:2
It requires great faith and strong character to be able to work through adversity and disappointment. Many seemingly strong people eventually collapse under their burdens.
The Lord never promised that our lives would be trouble-free just becuase we choose to serve Him. But He did promise to be there for us all the times, and help us over life’s hurdles. Knowing that you don’t have to tackle the afflictions of life on your own is a comforting and reassuring thought.
When problems mar your view and place pressure on you, turn to Christ. He is your heavenly Companion. Overcome your problems in the peace of His presence.
Thank you, omnipotent Father, that I can say with confidence that You are with me day by day. Amen.
for the bid that could be added to the contract. The first alternative would be for a device that was capable of recording vehicles that do not stop for the bus, and the second would be an electronic student ridership tracking system.
While the district was negotiating with NRT, Martineau said there were two items that raised the overall cost the dedi-
cated substitute drivers and the age and mileage requirements of the vehicles.
In weighing the pros and cons of rejecting the bids and reissuing an invitation for them, Pellegrino said the district would be able to change the bid specifications to achieve any savings and could lead to more competitive bids from
Burial ground has seen several improvements in the past decade
NORTHBOROUGH THEN NOW
By Normand Corbin History Columnist
NORTHBOROUGH – Over the past twelve years, there have been several preservation and restoration projects at the Brigham Street Burial Ground in Northborough. The recent removals of dead and diseased trees, grading and reseeding the lawn and installing fencing have been the newest and most visible improvements. The burial ground now has the respect it deserves for Northborough’s colonial ancestors.
The Brigham Street Burial Ground is the oldest burial ground within Northborough. It was laid out in November of 1729. At that time, Northborough’s lands were within the northern section of the town of Westborough. The purpose of the site was to have a burial
ground closer to the northern inhabitants. Once the Massachusetts General Court granted a request of the northern inhabitants to become a Precinct of Westborough in 1744, the burial ground was no longer used. The Precinct designation
NOW LEASING
allowed the Northerners to have their own meeting house and minister. A new burial ground was opened behind the original Church of Christ Meeting House and is known today as the Howard Street Burial Ground.
To appreciate recent efforts to preserve and restore the burial site it is useful to recognize the challenges of the site once it was closed. The closure started after almost 275 years of continuous neglect with intermittent improvements. In 1826, Rev. Joseph Allen reported that the burial site “is now overgrown with trees and brush.” In 1845, a committee was formed to evaluate the site and reported their findings at the November 19 Town Meeting. As part of their efforts, four stone markers, that still remain, were installed at the corners of the lot. The report states “The present state of the ground is such as shows great disrespect for our departed ancestors, and great neglect to a spot consecrated as a resting place for the dead.”
Their recommendation was to have the site cleared of all underbrush and trim the trees.
the site with support from the Northborough Cemetery Commission, the girl and boy scouts, the Junior Women’s Club and the fire department. In recent years, the Northborough DPW has continued to maintain the site, removing yard waste and trash.
The primary challenge for long-term site improvements had been the lack of funding. That all changed with the acceptance of the Community Preservation Act (CPA) by the Northborough community in 2005. Since 2012, the Historical Commission and the Northborough DPW have jointly identified and implemented a series of projects to improve the Brigham Street Burial Ground site using “Historical Preservation” CPA funds. The major efforts include:
• Cleaning, repairing and straightening the stone burial markers
• Using Ground Penetrating Radar to identify burial locations
• Installing signage identifying the site as a colonial burial ground
• Installing an interpretive sign about the site that includes a list of known and probable burials as identified by Beth Finch-McCarthy, a local genealogist
• Removal of all dead and diseased trees, grading and seeding the site, installing fencing and a small parking area
• Future plans include planting trees, identifying the area where burials are located and eventually listing in the National Register of Historic places
In 1921, Rev. Kent reported is his “Northborough History” book that he inspected the condition of the site and “found it to be in the same condition that the 1845 committee described in their report.” In 1945, Alice Kimball, who was the Historical Society president at the time, initiated a project to restore the site. According to Kimball “the place was nearly impenetrable.” She was successful in obtaining $300 from the town for improvements. As part of the effort, a bronze plaque, that still remains, was installed identifying the site as a burial ground. In 1978 Carol Haberland, the chair of the Northborough Historical Commission, was able to improve
Thank you, Northborough citizens, for your support for the preservation and restoration of this historical site.
Related Content:
https://www.communityadvocate.com/2022/11/11/ brigham-street-old-burialground-is-final-resting-placefor-many-early-northborough-residents/
https://www.communityadvocate.com/2017/10/18/ searching-for-northboroughsancestors/
https://www.communityadvocate.com/2016/12/18/ historic-signs-installed-torecognize-three-northborough-cemeteries/
Julio’s Liquors
Tatnuck Bookseller & Café
Installing an interpretive sign about the site that includes a list of known and probable burials is one of the improvements made at the Brigham Street Burial Ground in Northborough. (Photo/Norm Corbin)
Temporary Grafton clerk named following resignation
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
GRAFTON – Mike Jennette has been appointed temporary town clerk, following the resignation of Kandy Lavallee on Dec. 20.
During the Select Board meeting on Monday, Dec. 17,
Northborough library staging food drive
NORTHBOROUGH – The Northborough Free Library, 34 Main St., will be conducting a food drive for the month of January.
Bring nonperishable, unexpired food items to the reference desk on the second floor of the library during regular open hours (Mondays-Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., ThursdaysSaturdays, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.).
High-need items include: chunky soups and chowders; low-sodium beef stew; cereal; canned vegetables (peas and carrots, corn, beets potato); canned fruit or fruit cups; cooking oil (canola, olive); pasta; dried beans; lunch-size snacks (popcorn, pretzels, chips); mayonnaise; and rice.
Donations will be delivered to the Northborough Food Pantry.
For information on the library, visit www.northboroughlibrary.org.
multiple vendors. However, she noted that the process would be extended and the amount within the fiscal 2026 budget would remain unknown. Additionally, she said there is a potential that the bids could be higher or the district does not receive any bids.
She said district staff recommended that a new invitation would include revised language pertaining to the substitute drivers and vehicle age.
The district is also interested in engaging a transportation consultant to assess transportation in fiscal 2029. Martineau said the consultant would analyze what it would take and
Town Administrator Evan Brassard discussed the home rule petition, currently in the state Senate, that would turn the town clerk’s position from elected to appointed.
“We are in a little bit of limbo waiting for the governor to sign our home rule charter changes,” he said.
The petition was supposed to be taken up prior to the end of its session on Tuesday, Jan. 7.
While Brassard considered it good news, since the petition could be approved before the town clerk’s position is filled, he did recommend a temporary town clerk for the
short term.
Jennette has been assistant town clerk for about 18 months. Select Board member Andrew Jefferson said he had a talk with Jennette about the switch, and he said Jennette was O.K. with the move.
“It will give Mike a chance to test the role,” said Jefferson,
adding that 2025 would be a “quiet” election year.
Brassard said Jennette was “very adaptable, a smart guy.” The board approved the move in a 5-0 vote.
Brassard said the search for a permanent town clerk is under way; the job listing has been posted.
COMMUNITY BUSINESS
By Evan Walsh Reporter
WESTBOROUGH – When E.L.
Harvey incorporated in 1911, the business was focused on farming.
Then, in the late 1970s, the company turned its focus to the trash and recycling biz, adapting its 100-acre lot into one of the most sophisticated waste operations in Central Massachusetts. By the 2000s,
• Using Wilson Fundations Reading Program
• Small class sizes
• Beginning to read program
E.L. Harvey’s business had officially “taken off.”
E.L. Harvey now has additional facilities in Fitchburg and Tyngsborough and has roughly quadrupled in size since 2012. In 2021, the busi-
• Accepting children who are 5 by Dec. 31st
• Diagnostic teaching: Teaching to your child’s needs
• Weekly Spanish & music classes Schedule a Visit Today!
• Field trips and more!
ness was acquired by Texasbased Waste Connections. While the business has grown considerably since its original farm operation, its commitment to Westborough has remained markedly the same.
makes this operation tick. They provide the service, and we’re extremely proud of that. That translates to the fact that we have really great customers as well. I think it starts with the people here at E.L. Harvey. There’s no industry out there that’s so reliant on their people, and we simply have the best,” he said.
“We have very close ties to the community from a business perspective, but a handful of us live here, too. I personally grew up in Westborough,” said Executive Vice President BJ Harvey. “It’s a great community to raise a family, it was great to be raised here. We want to be a great steward of the community — you want the community you’re in to be successful, and we want to be good neighbors.”
“We’ve always been there for the town — since 1945,” he added.
E.L. Harvey offers a slew of residential trash and recycling services — ranging from garbage pickup, bulky item disposal, and dumpsters — in addition to a variety of commercial options, meant for larger companies looking to dispose of waste. Whatever the scale, E.L. Harvey is able to help; the company has a “solution for every job, no matter the size,” according to its website.
What makes it all possible?
“The people,” said Harvey.
“We’re extremely fortunate to have the best employees around, and that’s what
Everyone has junk, but E.L. Harvey — with its three Westborough recycling plants that handle high-grade paper, construction-demolition recycling, and single-stream recycling — is here to help you out. The company services all areas in the Community Advocate coverage region.
“Everything goes through a pretty intense process of separating all that material out. You can look at a pile in the front and think it’s all trash, and you look at the back, and you’re like, ‘How did it get there?’ It’s still a pretty manual process with some automation involved,” said Harvey.
“There’s a lot of capital that goes into unscrambling the egg.”
For more on E.L. Harvey, visit https://www.elharvey. com/.
Business Profiles are advertising features designed to provide information and background about Community Advocate advertisers.
E.L. Harvey is passionate about the community. (Photo/Courtesy)
Boston Lawnmower opens at Bridle Lane location
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – Boston
Lawnmower has opened at its new location at 2 Bridle Lane, just off Hartford Turnpike westbound.
“We’d been doing business at our old location for over 20 years. We’re happy to stay in
the Westborough community,” said Jeremy Taft, general manager for Boston Lawnmower.
Taft said, “We’ve broadened our selection of products to offer a better selection for our customers.”
In addition, the new facility has expanded its parts and service departments.
“We thank our community
for staying with us during the transition and seeing us in our new location,” said Taft.
Hours are Mondays through Saturdays, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed on Sundays.
For information, call 508898-3500, option 0; email info@bostonlawnmower.com, or visit https://www.bostonlawnmower.com/
Work begins at Big Y site
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – Work has begun at what will soon be a Big Y supermarket at 290 Turnpike Road.
Eric Butler, the project superintendent for C.E. Floyd Construction, the general contractor for Big Y, said the work currently being done includes the underground installation of electrical, plumbing and refrigeration.
According to town records, the property owner, RK Westboro LLC, recently pulled per-
Work recently began at the 290 Turnpike Road site that will become a Big Y supermarket.
mit applications for electrical work (including new panels, fire alarms and lighting) and sheet metal installation (duct work).
Butler said the work should be completed this summer.
In January 2024, Big Y announced it was coming to the site that once housed a Stop & Shop supermarket. The supermarket chain applied for building permits in September.
The interior fit-out will include walk-in coolers, shelving, fixtures and finishes.
The interior totals 41,448 square feet.
(Photo/Maureen Sullivan)
The new Boston Lawnmower facility at 2 Bridle Lane offers more products, as well as an expanded parts and service departments. (Photos/Maureen Sullivan)
Local business provides restrooms for presidential inauguration
gram to harvest rainwater off rooftops. After it’s drained into tanks, the rainwater is pumped into trucks, and used to clean the portable restrooms.
Clean Restroom Rentals recently obtained a full patent for its Clean Tech System, designed for use with high-rise buildings under construction.
According to Spitalieri and Kellar, portable restrooms are
placed every few floors and cleaned three times a week. Before the Clean Tech System was implemented, these restrooms had to be moved, via elevator or crane, to the ground floor, cleaned, then brought back up. The system allows the restrooms to remain in place. Using a PVC pipe and water line, a restroom can be connected to a truck on the ground; with a phone app, the technician can
vacuum the waste from the restroom in under two minutes. Another technician then cleans, deodorizes and stocks the restroom.
According to Kellar, the new system is saving about $40,000 to $100,000 in building costs per month.
For information about Clean Restroom Rentals, go to https://restroomrentals.com/, or call 888-935-0009.
The Shrewsbury Town Center Association marked its Fifth Yuletide Market & Light the Common on December 7, 2024 which has become an anticipated community event to usher in the Holiday season. The committee wishes to acknowledge the following incredible sponsors. Without them, an event such as this wouldn’t have been possible.
Committee Members: Lee Abdella, Anne Comber, Susan Gregory, Michael Hale, Michael Lamoureux, Stephanie Luz, Maribeth Lynch, Moira Miller and Melanie Petrucci
The Cellar Bar & Grille
BSA Troops 114 and 7114
Town of Shrewsbury
Photo credit: Melanie Petrucci
Inauguration | from page 1
Karina Kellar, director of business operations for Clean Restroom Rentals. Anthony Spitalieri, chief Business Development officer for Clean Restroom Rentals
Steve Quintal, one of the managers at Clean Restroom Rentals, at a NASCAR event. Quintal is one of the inventors behind the Clean Tech System, designed to clean and maintain portable restrooms at high-rise construction sites.
The Impact and Value of the Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of MetroWest
A nationwide public opinion poll conducted in conjunction with Harris Poll, highlighted the overwhelmingly positive perception and impact Chambers of Commerce make in their local communities. Key findings of the poll include:
1. Chambers are Trusted: 81% of U.S. adults agree that their local chamber is a trusted resource and partner for businesses. 90% feel that their local chamber has an impact on growing the local economy.
2. Chamber Membership Strengthens a Business’s Reputation: 64% of adults who are familiar with their local chamber are more likely to purchase goods and services from a business that they know is a member of their local chamber. 63% of these adults are more likely to recommend that business to someone else.
3. Chambers Serve Businesses and Communities: 76% of U.S. adults agree that local chambers are stewards of a strong local economy. 74% believe local chambers create jobs and promote local community
development. 72% believe local chambers play a key role in addressing community challenges.
4. Business Owners See the Value: 65% of business owners see their local chamber as an advocate for initiatives and policies that are in the best interest of their business. 62% believe the chamber supports the growth and prosperity of their business.
As the Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of MetroWest reflects on its impact in 2024, it was a year of growth, collaboration, and community impact that included our business organization growing to the largest Chamber of Commerce in MetroWest with well over 500 member businesses. This included welcoming 110 new member businesses joining our organization, celebrating 27 new and growing businesses with ribbon cutting ceremonies, awarding $15,000 in scholarships to 16 high school graduating seniors, sponsoring a food drive with over 400 nonperishable items donated to a local Veterans Food Pantry, volunteers picked 8,000 pounds of apples that were distributed to local food hubs, donated $815 in cash and gift cards to a home for young girls living in crisis, and 30 bags of litter were filled for Earth Day Clean-up.
The Chamber’s 60 signature networking programs and events saw record numbers with 300 to 1,000 business leaders in attendance to develop new business connections. Reported sales from exhibitors at Business Expo ranged from $25,000 to $100,000, and the Chamber’s Referral Groups closed over $600,000 in business.
This past year, the Chamber advocated for a “No” vote on Ballot Question 5 to protect jobs and preserve our local economy, promoted maintaining a single tax rate in our towns so that the tax burden is not shifted to business, and furthered dialogue between businesses and elected legislators at our Annual Legislators Breakfast to ensure the concerns of the business community were heard.
As we look ahead to the new year, the Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of MetroWest is committed to continuing to be a trusted resource and partner for business to help our members grow and succeed. Any business interested in learning more about joining the Chamber to grow their business, visit the Chamber’s website at www.corridornine.org.
Karen Chapman, President & CEO, Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of MetroWest
New SHS course would address need for
referees COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
By Evan Walsh Reporter
SHREWSBURY – Shrewsbury students may have the chance to take new classes next year, including one course that would allow them to officiate local sporting events.
The School Committee on Jan. 8 reviewed proposed changes to the Shrewsbury High School Program of Studies, a 100-page-long document that outlines classes offered to students. The School Committee is expected to vote on approving the 2025-2026 Program of Studies at an upcoming meeting.
In the Health and Physical Education Department, students may have the opportunity to take “Officiating.” In this elective for upperclassmen, students would take a sportspecific officiating exam at the culmination of the course, allowing them to potentially
officiate future games.
“This course has been developed to meet the need for training qualified officials and referees due to a national shortage in youth and highschool athletics,” said Health and Physical Education Department Director Erica Pratt, who presented the changes
Jan. 8. “Other schools in Massachusetts have also had great success implementing this course, and it has resulted in students being hired for youth sporting events, also giving them a greater appreciation for sportsmanship.”
“Mediterranean Cuisine” may return to Shrewsbury
High School, replacing “Foods of the World.” The two classes have alternated for the last couple of years. According to documents from past years, in “Mediterranean Cuisine,” students would have the opportunity to “explore the cuisines and cultures of European and Mediterranean countries,
[studying the] influence of geography, climate, and culture.”
Another new course, “Introduction to Computer Applications,” would help students develop computer skills, serving as a foundation for other technology-based courses. Students would learn about file management, word processing, spreadsheets, and troubleshooting.
In addition to the new classes, Shrewsbury High School seeks to update language regarding its graduation requirements. In November, Massachusetts voters passed Question 2, ending MCAS as a graduation requirement in the state. Draft language regarding the change was presented at the Jan. 8 meeting, and district staff will meet in the coming days to further refine the requirements.
This would be the first update to the district’s graduation requirements since 2003.
Changes to the Shrewsbury High School Program of Studies went before the School Committee on Jan. 8. (File Photo/Dakota Antelman)
Concierge Physical Therapy settles into new Northborough home
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor
NORTHBOROUGH – It’s been over four months since Concierge Physical Therapy opened its fourth location at 318 Main St. in Northborough.
“We’re doing really well,” said Dr. Sean Lordan.
A family business, Concierge Physical Therapy is owned by Lordan and his wife, Brooke.
Concierge’s Northborough location opened in September 2024, marking the business’ fourth location. There are also Concierge locations in Sutton, Shrewsbury and Hopkinton.
The newest clinic is modern and family-friendly, encompassing approximately 4,500 square feet. According to Lordan, their targeted audience is a combination of athletes, people who are actively aging, weekend warriors and those who want to stay healthy as they age. Concierge offers custom orthotics for shoes along with shockwave therapy.
“At our core, we are focused on providing the latest technology in the field,” said Lordan.
Since the first clinic opened in Sutton in 2018, Lordan’s goal is to open 10 clinics in 10 years.
Growing up in Shrewsbury and attending St. John’s High School, Lordan had friends from Northborough and the
surrounding area.
“I feel as though it’s an underserved area,” he said.
Lordan noted that the Concierge clinic has a neuro specialist. The specialist works with patients with neuromuscular and neurovascular disorders along with spinal cord injuries, vestibular dysfunction and balance issues.
Concierge also has a pediat-
Dr. Sean Lordan and Jenna Dickie stand inside the Concierge Physical Therapy location in Northborough. (Photo/Laura Hayes)
marily treating peds, which is really cool,” said Lordan.
Concierge’s team of over 20 physical therapists each have specific specialties.
“We’ve done a great job of being the clinic that can see everything at each clinic. We can see everything from a newborn to a 105 year old, which is cool. We can do the same thing in Northborough, but with a subspecialty of neuro, orthopedics and pediatrics,” said Lordan.
He described the Northborough team as “dynamic.”
ric room in their Northborough location to accommodate a therapist specializing in pediatric patients, ranging from neonatal to 18 years old. This will be a first for Concierge.
“You want talk about an underserved population, there’s no clinic that I know of around here that only treats pediatrics, and we’re going to have a therapist that really is pri-
“We’ve been able to establish a really solid team there quickly. With the right people, we can create community ties and really start helping people in the community, which is the goal of the business,” he said.
Concierge hopes to open its fifth location in Southborough this year.
The Northborough office can be contacted at 508-8611800. For more information, visit https://conciergephysicaltherapy.com/.
POLICE FIRE&
Grafton Police Department seizes $38,000, contraband after search warrant
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor
GRAFTON – Two 18-year-old men are facing charges when, after executing a search warrant, the Grafton Police Department located contraband in their residences.
On Jan. 9, members of the Blackstone Valley Drug Task Force, led by Grafton Sgt. Liam O’Rourke and officer Coryn Dias, executed search warrants at two separate residences on Pleasant and Elmwood streets, according to the statement of facts filed in
Westborough District Court.
According to court documents, police located a large quantity of psilocybin mushrooms and marijuana as well as unopened THC vape pens, packaging material, digital scales, nicotine vape pens and nicotine pouches. Police said they also seized nearly $38,000 in cash.
“This is a great example of strong investigative and police work as well as collaboration between multiple agencies. We appreciate the dedication, coordination and professionalism of all the of-
ficers involved in bringing this investigation to a safe conclusion,” Grafton Police Chief Neil A. Minardi said in a Facebook post. Connor Saltus and Cameron Mehigan were charged with:
• Possession with intent to distribute Class C substance
• Possession with intent to distribute Class D substance
• Distribution of Class C substance
• Distribution of Class D substance
• Conspiracy to violate drug laws
Westborough Police officer faces OUI charges
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
NORTHBOROUGH – An officer with the Westborough Police Department is facing several charges after he was pulled over at the Southwest Cutoff in Northborough.
According to the statement of facts filed in Westborough District Court, on Friday, Jan. 10, around 10:24 p.m., a Northborough police officer observed a vehicle, driven by someone identified as William P. Kearney, of Northborough, cross over the solid white fog line near 20 Southwest Cutoff. After the vehicle reportedly crossed over the yellow double lines near the red light at Southwest Cutoff and West
Main Street, the officer activated their lights and pulled over the vehicle.
According to the reports, Kearney showed signs of impairment.
“His eyes were bloodshot, red and glossy, his speech was slurred,” the officer wrote in the statement of facts.
The report said Kearney admitted to consuming alcoholic beverages, and there was “a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from his mouth as he spoke.”
Kearney agreed to field sobriety tests, failing two of them. He was taken into custody and brought to the Northborough Police Station for booking. Kearney said that his department-issued firearm was in
the glovebox of his vehicle, and requested to have it locked. The firearm was loaded.
Kearney was charged with OUI liquor; negligent operation of a motor vehicle; marked lanes violation; and carrying a firearm while intoxicated.
According to Police Chief Todd Minardi, Kearney, who serves as a patrol officer, has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the criminal case and internal investigation.
Kearney was arraigned in Westborough District Court on Monday, Jan. 13.
The Community Advocate reached out his defense attorney, Richard Rafferty, for comment.
An accident at around 7:15 a.m. on Jan. 14 closed down a portion of Route 140 in Grafton. The accident involved a passenger car and Blackstone Valley Tech High School bus. The drivers of both vehicles were transported to the hospital; no students were injured. (Photo/Evan Walsh)
Grafton
Monday, Dec. 23
1:13 p.m. Providence Rd. Scam/ attempted scam.
2:14 p.m. Worcester St. Trespassing.
8:32 p.m. Brigham Hill Rd. Fire – flooding.
Tuesday, Dec. 24
8:22 a.m. Old Upton Rd. B&E into vehicle.
9:27 a.m. Worcester St. Threatening.
11:18 a.m. South St. B&E into vehicle.
12:05 p.m. Stonewall Dr. Fire –smoke in indoors.
1:14 p.m. Waterville St. B&E into vehicle.
Wednesday, Dec. 25
4:21 p.m. Providence Rd. Scam/ attempted scam.
5:57 p.m. Worcester St. Erratic operator.
Thursday, Dec. 26
4:43 p.m. Worcester St. Accident – no injuries.
Friday, Dec. 27
2:02 p.m. Worcester/N Main Sts. Erratic operator.
Saturday, Dec. 28
10:15 a.m. Westboro Rd. Accident – no injuries.
6:44 p.m. N Main St. Road rage. Monday, Dec. 30
4:18 a.m. Providence Rd. Fire –flooding.
7:15 a.m. Elmwood St. Vandalism.
8:27 a.m. Northgate Ct. Fire –gas odor.
12:46 p.m. Worcester St. Road rage.
3:21 p.m. Pepperbush Ct. Alarm – carbon monoxide.
Tuesday, Dec. 31
10:02 a.m. Providence Rd. Assault.
2:13 p.m. Harding St. Fire – motor vehicle.
4:21 p.m. English Row. Fraud/ identity theft.
5:09 p.m. Old Westboro Rd. Erratic operator.
7:02 p.m. Greany Dr. Fireworks. 10:18 p.m. Aspen Ave. Fireworks.
Wednesday, Jan. 1
1:38 p.m. Old Westboro Rd. Assault.
Thursday, Jan. 2
7:59 a.m. Providence Rd./Luka Dr. Traffic hazard.
10:19 a.m. Providence Rd. Larceny/theft.
6:59 p.m. Worcester St. Trespassing.
Friday, Jan. 3
8:20 a.m. Worcester St. Fire –motor vehicle.
4:42 p.m. Sunrise Ave. Fire – gas odor.
Saturday, Jan. 4
1:18 a.m. Arrested, Matthew D. Pasqualone-McMul, 30, of 175 Dutcher St., Hopedale, for OUIliquor or .08% 2nd offense.
6:06 p.m. Edward Dr. Fire – gas odor.
Sunday, Jan. 5
10:48 a.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/identity theft.
A search warrant was executed at two Grafton homes, resulting in the seizure of these items. (Photo/Courtesy Grafton Police Department)
12:57 p.m. Main St. Larceny/ theft.
Monday, Jan. 6
7:42 a.m. Millbury St. Water main break.
8:11 a.m. Providence/Brigham Hill Rds. Road hazard.
1:49 p.m. Main St. Keeping the peace.
2:19 p.m. Providence Rd. Accident – hit & run.
11:04 p.m. Oak St. Wires down.
Northborough
Friday, Jan. 3
12:48 a.m. Church/Pleasant (Upper) Sts. Criminal complaint.
1:39 a.m. Arrested, Sean Patrick Donfield, 20, of 7 Old Harry Rd., Southborough, for op MV with license suspended, miscellaneous MV equipment violation.
1:26 a.m. Bearfoot Rd. Criminal complaint.
8:19 p.m. Main/School Sts. Criminal complaint.
8:29 p.m. Arrested, Andy J. De Leon, 24, of 64 Maple St., Apt. 6, Marlborough, for no inspection sticker, op MV with license suspended.
11:31 p.m. Arrested, Heriberto Rojas Jr., 26, of 80 Greeley St., Clinton, for MV operator refusing to identify self, number plate violation, warrants.
Sunday, Jan. 5
11:25 a.m. Arrested, Alec Elton Gentile-Magoon, 19, of 82 Rice St., Marlborough, for trespass.
8:19 p.m. Otis St. Accident: P.D.
Monday, Jan. 6
4:45 p.m. Southwest Cut/Belmont St. Accident: P.D.
6:27 p.m. Belmont St. Accident: P.D.
Tuesday, Jan. 7
8:50 a.m. Hudson St. Accident: P.D.
11:25 a.m. Shops Way. Shoplifting.
4:56 p.m. West Main St. Accident: P.D.
Wednesday, Jan. 8
5:11 p.m. Bartlett St. Accident: P.D.
Shrewsbury
Thursday, Jan. 2
8:27 a.m. Hartford Tpke. Animal complaint.
10:47 a.m. North Quinsigamond. Dispute.
12:54 p.m. Olive Ave. Threats.
2:39 p.m. Grace Ave. Preserve the peace.
Friday, Jan. 3
10:42 a.m. Commons Dr. Illegal dumping.
12:06 p.m. Walnut St. Animal complaint.
4:06 p.m. Ira Ave. Animal complaint.
Saturday, Jan. 4
12:15 a.m. Clews St. B&E motor vehicle.
Sunday, Jan. 5
9:20 a.m. Myriah Rd. Road haz-
LEGAL NOTICES
Scan QR code for rate information or to email your legal notice.
SHREWSBURY
SHREWSBURY PLANNING BOARD
SHREWSBURY, MASSACHUSETTS LEGAL NOTICE
The Shrewsbury Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday evening, February 6, 2025 at 7:00 PM, in the Selectboard’s Hearing Room at the Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, to hear the application of Habibollah Amani, 9 Wolcott Road, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, for Site Plan Approval by the Planning Board as required by the Town of Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII.F.3, to construct a second unit to have a two-family dwelling as shown on plans entitled, “Proposed Building Plan,” dated September 29, 2024; prepared by B&R Land Survey, INC, P.O. Box 102 Worcester, MA 01613; stamped by Robert J. Smith, PLS., consisting of one (1) page. The subject project is located at 9 Wolcott Road, southerly of Beach Road and West of Maple Avenue and consists in whole or in part of Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax 32 Plot 354000.
A copy of the application, plans, and reports may be seen in the Office of the Planning and Economic Development Department at the Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA, and on the Planning Board website at www.shrewsburyma. gov/ongoing-projects.
SHREWSBURY PLANNING BOARD
Timothy Fitzgerald, Clerk
ard – trees/wires/debris.
1:12 p.m. Hartford Tpke. Trespassing.
Monday, Jan. 6
12:48 a.m. Adin Dr. Dispute.
7:22 p.m. Oak St. Animal complaint.
Westborough
Monday, Dec. 30
1:25 p.m. Rogers Rd. Accident property damage.
4:15 p.m. Turnpike Rd./Research
Dr. Accident – hit & run. Tuesday, Dec. 31
4:51 p.m. Hartford Tpke./Valente Dr. Accident property damage.
7:16 p.m. Commonwealth Ave. Fire, structure.
11:10 p.m. Ambassador Dr. Fire, smoke.
Thursday, Jan. 2
9:04 a.m. Flanders Rd. AC, animal inspection.
9:38 a.m. Mill Rd. AC, animal inspection.
9:50 a.m. Ruggles/Cross Sts. Accident property damage.
10:35 a.m. Fisher St. Road/tree.
4:17 p.m. Nourse St. Fire, wires down.
4:28 p.m. Lyman St. Assault.
4:38 p.m. W Main St. Larceny.
7:10 p.m. South/Warren Sts. Accident property damage.
7:26 p.m. Summer St. Fire, wires down.
7:58 p.m. Technology Dr. Motor vehicle theft.
LEGAL NOTICE
Pursuant to M.G.L. Chapter 41 §81-S, as amended, the Shrewsbury Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday evening, February 6, 2025 7:00 P.M., in the Selectboard’s Hearing Room, at the Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, to review a proposed Preliminary Subdivision as shown on plans entitled, “Aoude Drive,” dated July 15, 2024; prepared by land Planning Inc., 214 Worcester Street, North Grafton, MA 01536, stamped by Norman G. Hill PE, PLS, in one (1) sheets; located on the westerly side of Boylston Street and proposing the creation of a subdivision roadway and one (1) new lot on land presently shown on the Shrewsbury Assessors Maps as two (2) lots identified as Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 10, Plot 043000 and Tax Plate 10, Plot, 045000. The owner is, Nicholas Aoude, 235 Boylston Street, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, identified as Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 10, Plot 043001.
A copy of the application, plans, and reports may be seen in the Office of the Planning and Economic Development Department at the Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA, and on the Planning Board website at www.shrewsburyma. gov/ongoing-projects.
SHREWSBURY PLANNING BOARD
Timothy Fitzgerald, Clerk
SOUTHBOROUGH
Notice is hereby given by Ted’s of Fayville, 300 Turnpike Road., Southborough, MA 01772, pursuant to the provisions of G.L. c. 255, section 39A, that on Wednesday February 12, 2025 at 10 am an auction sale on the web based site of http://sta.
Friday, Jan. 3
8:41 a.m. W Main St. Accident property damage.
10:00 a.m. Arrested, Christopher Robert Sconiers, 40, of 177 Crescent St., Apt. 1, Shrewsbury, on warrant, unlicensed operation of MV.
11:07 a.m. Smith St. AC, animal inspection.
11:48 a.m. State St. Annoying/ harassing phone calls. Saturday, Jan. 4
1:17 p.m. W Main St. Vandalism. Sunday, Jan. 5
1:57 p.m. W Main St. Fraud.
2:12 p.m. Charlestown Meadows Dr. Burglary/breaking & entering.
Southborough
Monday, Dec. 30
1:13 p.m. Latisquama Rd. Soliciting.
2;07 p.m. Newton St. Tree/limb down in roadway.
Tuesday, Dec. 31
1:05 a.m. Arrested, Magno L. Silva Ribeiro Junior, of Beacon St., Framingham, for op MV with license suspended, MV lights violation.
10:05 a.m. Madison Pl. Larceny by scam.
1:59 p.m. Turnpike/Breakneck Hill Rds. MVA property damage only.
9:38 p.m. Madison Pl./Crystal pond Rd. Noise investigation.
10:32 p.m. Crystal Pond Rd.
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 February 1, 2025 at 9 am, vehicles can be viewed at http://sta.ibidsmart.com.
This is not an absolute auction we reserve the right to set a minimum on all auction vehicles. If a particular vehicle is not listed on http://sta.ibidsmart.com call 508-4850503 for bidding instructions.
2004 GMC Envoy VIN: 1GKET16S746194111
Owned by Oscar Oliverio Guaman Tocuri
2010 Jeep Liberty VIN : 1J4PN2GK1AW159816
Owned by Carlos Camino Canales
2004 Toyota Corolla Vin: 2T1BR32E14C218209
Owned by Daniel Beck
2008 Toyota Prius VIN: JTDKB20U587816707
Owned by: Chambers Motors
1997 Chevrolet C1500 VIN: 1GCEC14M6VZ253990
Owned by Allen Tripp
2002 Cottrell Trailer VIN: 5E0AZ14422G003909
Owned by TB Auto Transport LLC
2009 Honda Civic VIN: 2HGFG11289H510442
Owned by Rayssa Diniz Castro
2010 Toyota Rav4 VIN: JTMRF4DV0A5036200
Owned by Michael Tarbell
2004 Trail Cruiser Camper Trailer VIN: Unknown
Owned by Brian Reynolds
2011 Ford F150 VIN: 1FTFW1EF6BFC98694
Owned by: Filipe E Castro
This notice has been given under the provisions of G.L. c. 255, Section 39A.
Noise investigation.
Wednesday, Jan.1
12:39 a.m. Edgewood Rd. Animal complaint.
Thursday, Jan. 2
7:28 a.m. Witherbee Ln. Tree/ limb down in roadway.
7:58 a.m. Southville Rd. Tree/ limb down in roadway.
10:57 a.m. Woodbury Rd./ Heather Ln. Tree/limb down in roadway.
12:14 p.m. Fisher Rd./Schipper Farm Ln. Tree/limb down in roadway.
2:00 p.m. Arrested, Abdelrhman A. Abdelhafez Ahmed, of Cherry St., Southborough, on warrant.
Sunday, Jan. 5
1:54 a.m. Arrested , Marlen
L. Lamas, of Bonito Dr., Framingham, for uninsured motor vehicle, op MV with registration revoked, op MV with license suspended, speeding/rate of speed exceeding posted limit.
Monday, Jan. 6
4:04 p.m. Deerfoot Rd./Main St. MVA property damage only.
Tuesday, Jan. 7
8:10 p.m. Framingham Rd. Noise investigation.
10:09 p.m. Central St./Boston Rd. Traffic lights inoperable.
Wednesday, Jan. 8
9:52 a.m. Arrested, Alexsandra Pereira De Almeida, of Worcester Rd., Framingham, on warrant.
Thursday, Jan. 9
9:13 a.m. Arrested , Alesson
Publication Friday January 17, 24 and 31, 2024 Community Advocate.
FAMILY & PROBATE LAW
INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE
Docket No. WO24P4307EA
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
The Trial Court
Worcester Division Probate and Family Court
Estate of: Janet E. Moodie
Date of Death: August 29, 2024
To all persons interested in the above captioned estate by Petition of Petitioner, Lisa M. Simpson of New Port Richey, FL a Will has been admitted to informal probate. Lisa M. Simpson of New Port Richey, FL 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.
Oliveira De Sena, of Pleasant St., Worcester, for unregistered motor vehicle, number plate violation to conceal ID, op MV with license suspended, uninsured motor vehicle.
3:08 p.m. Cordaville Rd. Larceny/forgery/fraud.
4:01 p.m. Schipper Farm Ln./ Fisher Rd. MVA property damage only.
6:24 p.m. Central St./Boston Rd. Traffic lights inoperable.
9:09 p.m. Southville Rd. Vandalism.
Friday, Jan. 10
7:51 p.m. Northboro Rd. MVA property damage only.
Saturday, Jan. 11
8:08 a.m. Turnpike/Breakneck Hill Rds. MVA property damage only.
9:44 a.m. Pine Hill/Parmenter Rds. Motor vehicle accident. 1:31 p.m. Arrested , Rodney H. Cameron Jr., of Exeter St., Quincy, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, marked lanes violation, dangerous weapon/carr/misdemeanor, possess open container of alcohol in MV, fail to stop/yield, Sunday, Jan. 12
11:18 a.m. Sadie Hutt Ln. Burglary/B&E past.
4:59 p.m. Central St./Boston Rd. Traffic lights inoperable. 5:19 p.m. Reservoir Dr. Missing person.
COMMUNITY CLASSIFIED
COMMUNITY CLASSIFIED
CAREER MARKETPLACE
Southborough Department of Public Works
Highway Supervisor
Equipment
Operator II
The Town of Southborough Department of Public Works is receiving applications from mature and versatile individuals for several openings in the Highway Division.
Position: Highway Supervisor Equipment Operator II
Grade: 6 4
Location: DPW, 147 Cordaville Road, Southborough, MA 01772
Status: Full-time Full-time
Hours: 40 hrs/wk, M-F 6:30 am to 3:00 pm 40 hrs/wk, M-F 6:30 am to 3:00 pm
Wages: $32.43/hr - $39.12/hr $28.70/hr - $34.61/hr
Wages reflect the January 1, 2025 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) rates. A salary adjustment is scheduled to occur on July 1, 2025 under a new CBA.
The Highway Supervisor position involves work in all Divisions of the Public Works with a primary assignment to the Highway Division. Work includes scheduling, supervising and performing typical Highway Division operations including on-call duty, brush mowing, tree work, hauling, line painting, street sweeping, catch basin repair, pothole filling, plowing, and cemetery operations. Work also includes other Public Works operations including, but not limited to, water main break assistance and transfer station operations. A Commercial Drivers License, Class A, with air brakes is preferred or must be able to obtain within six months of employment. A Class 2A hoisting license is preferred or must be able to obtain within 12 months of employment. Basic mechanical knowledge and background in construction equipment, as well as general Public Works maintenance is preferable. Pay Grade based on years relevant experience and licensure. Starting hourly pay range is $32.43 - $39.12 per hour, depending on qualifications and experience.
The Equipment Operator II position involves work in all divisions of the Public Works with a primary assignment to the Highway Division. Work includes typical Highway Division operations including on-call duty, brush mowing, tree work, hauling, line painting, street sweeping, catch basin repair, pothole filling, plowing, and cemetery operations. Work also includes other Public Works operations including, but not limited to, water main break assistance and transfer station operations. The following is preferred: a CDL, Class A, with air brakes or must be able to obtain within six months, a Class 2A hoisting license or must be able to obtain within 12 months, basic mechanical knowledge and background in construction equipment, as well as general Public Works maintenance is preferable. Salary commensurate with experience. Starting hourly pay range is $28.70 - $34.61 per hour.
Applications and full job descriptions are available at https://tinyurl. com/southboroughjobs and at the DPW Office. Applications will be accepted at the Southborough DPW office, 147 Cordaville Road, Southborough, MA 01772, Monday through Friday from 8:00am - 4:00pm or by e-mail to dpwoffice@southboroughma.com. Position open until filled.
The Town of Southborough is an equal opportunity employer.
SUPPLY CHAIN PLANNER III
Marlborough, MA
May require to travel/telecommute. Resolve inventory in-stock issues such as the depth, timing, and efficient flow of inventory that support financial objectives. Salary
$63,773 to $99,340/Yr. Contact Susan Cardinal, Boston Scientific Corporation, GlobalTalentAcq@bsci.com. Please include reference H4872-00863. (EOE)
SOURCING CATEGORY MANAGER
Marlborough, MA
Collect market intelligence and trends for the commodity and sub-commodities. May require to travel/telecommute.
Send resumes to: Susan Cardinal, Boston Scientific, GlobalTalentAcq@bsci.com. Ref: H4872-01151. EOE
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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
Adams, Lorraine of Shrewsbury Baldelli, Jean of Northborough Bellucci, Joanne of Shrewsbury Britton-Rowbotham, Michelle of Marlborough
Caron, Marie of Grafton
Costa, Mary Ellen formerly of Shrewsbury
Doherty, Elizabeth of Hudson Dussault, Merrill formerly of Northborough
Eisnor, Theresa formerly of Grafton
Eressy, June formerly of Shrewsbury
Fallon, Craig formerly of Marlborough
Farrar, Kathleen of Westborough
Freedman, Stephen S. of Hudson
Gale, Kathleen of Grafton LaDuke, Evelyn formerly of Grafton
LeBlanc, Philip of Hudson
LeDuc, Robert of Marlborough Magee, Eileen of Marlborough Moreau, Ruth of Hudson Murphy, Margaret of Hudson Prosser, Gordon of Northborough Proulx, Carol of Shrewsbury Santarpio, Stephen formerly of Northborough Williams, Janice of Northborough Windus, Ellen of Northborough
Stephen S. Freedman, 70
HUDSON – Stephen S. Freedman, 70, died peacefully at Gardner Rehabilitation and Nursing Center on Monday, Jan. 13, 2025. He is survived by his wife Margaret Freedman (Rushia), daughter Sarah Freedman, son Daniel Freedman and his daughter-in-law Naomi Zingher, granddaughter Raia Freedman, all of Clinton, brother Albert L. Freedman of Hudson and nephew William Grey of Vermont.
He is predeceased by his brother David Freedman, who passed away Jul. 12, 1988. Born Jan. 11, 1955, Stephen was the son of Jacob Mayron Freedman and Elizabeth (Mc-
Dowell) Freedman Useforge. He grew up in Hudson and graduated from Hudson High School in 1973.
He married the love of his life Margaret on May 26, 1979, and they spent a beautiful 45 years together. Employed by Waltham Central Taxi, he worked for the company transporting special needs students to school for 34 years.
Like his father, he displayed a talent and passion for music and played instruments at a young age. He played the saxophone in the Concord Band in 1976, the Marlborough Community Band with his father in 1980 and the Maynard Community Band in 1984. He also enjoyed jamming with his friends and with his son on the guitar and flute and was selftaught on both instruments.
An avid tennis player, Stephen was a member of the Riverside Tennis Association in Hudson for many years and was part of a softball league in 1985. He loved baseball and was a lifelong Red Sox fan - as evidenced by his extensive card collection. Stephen was a frequent spectator at his son’s youth baseball games.
Stephen had a quick wit and sharp sense of humor.
A voracious reader, he enjoyed biographies, especially of Presidents Abraham Lincoln and John F. Kennedy, books on the weather, and the sport of baseball, in particular player’s statistics.
He worked hard his entire life and would give anything for his family. He was a devoted father and husband who loved his children very much and supported them in activities like dance recitals, Symphony Pro Musica Youth Choir and tennis matches. His passion and drive live on through his children.
Visiting hours are 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 16 at Tighe Hamilton Funeral Home at 50 Central St. in Hudson. The funeral services will held be on Jan. 17 at 11 a.m. at the same location followed by a burial.
Robert H. LeDuc, 83
MARLBOROUGH
- Robert
“Bob” H. LeDuc, 83, of Marlborough passed away peace-
fully surrounded by family on Tuesday, December 31, 2024 at Metrowest Medical Center in Framingham after a short illness. Bob was a dedicated husband and father. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Bob knew he had met his wife the first time he saw her. Bob and Marie (Hartley) LeDuc were married from April 16, 1966 until her passing in 2023 and they shared a committed love for over 57 years.
Robert is survived by his daughters, Laurie Barnes and her husband Steven of Marlborough and Lisa LeDuc Creamer and her husband Charles of Rindge, NH, and his son Robert K LeDuc and his fiancée Melissa Dervishian of Worcester. He is also survived by his 6 grandchildren: Jeremy and Julia Barnes, Rilley and Alexis Creamer, and Kassidy and Kelsey LeDuc. Bob also leaves behind many extended family including nieces, nephews, cousins, and more.
He was predeceased by his siblings Paul R. LeDuc, Diann Chestnut, Sonny (Harold) Haynes, Richard Haynes, and Joyce LeDuc.
The Short & Rowe Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Alzheimer’s Association.
Michelle Britton, 64
MARLBOROUGH - Michelle “Mickey” (Pomerleau) Britton-Rowbotham, 64, of Marlborough passed away on Monday, December 30, 2024 at Marlborough Hospital after a short illness.
She was born in Methuen, MA to the late Rene Pomerleau and Eleanor (Dipasqua) Denaro.
Michelle married Walter “Scotty” Rowbotham in 2008 and they were married until his passing in 2019.
Michelle is survived by her mother, Eleanor of Brewster, MA, her brother Michael Pomerleau of St Petersburg, FL, her sisters Marie McCann of Allenstown, NH, Melissa Gooding and her husband Dan of Manchester, NH, her step-sister Laurie Denaro of
Scan QR code to read all of this week’s obituaries on our website.
Shaftsbury, VT, her daughters Jennifer Marino of Maynard, MA and Jaydee Clark and her husband Seth of Moore Haven, FL, her sons Jayson Britton of Marlborough, MA and Jonathan Britton and his wife Deirdre of Derry, NH. She is also survived by her 11 grandchildren, Lydia, Dakota, Charlie, Emily, Sterling, Nick, Mike, Luke, Kileah, Wyatt, and Malcolm and her great grandson, Matthew.
She was predeceased by her father and husband.
The Short & Rowe Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.
Gordon G. Prosser, 92
NORTHBOROUGH - Gordon G. Prosser, 92, of Northborough, formerly of Worcester passed away peacefully on Monday December 30, 2024 in UMASS Memorial Medical Center – University Campus, Worcester, with family at his side.
Gordon is survived by his wife of 68 years, Yvette (Ledoux) Prosser, his children, Christine Mauro and her husband, Bradford, Gordon Prosser, Jr., and his wife Cynthia Dombrowski, Steven Prosser and his wife, Saile, Judith Brennan and her husband, John, Daniel Prosser and his wife, Tara, and Timothy Prosser and his wife, Krishan, eighteen grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, two sisters, Barbara Zona and Beverly Corazzini, a brother, David Prosser and his wife, Kathleen and many nieces and nephews. Gordon was predeceased by a sister, Joan Collins. He was born in Worcester, a son of the late Gordon and Loretta (Nettles) Prosser. The Dirsa-Morin Funeral Home of Worcester assisted with arrangements.
Janice L. Williams, 90
NORTHBOROUGH - Janice
on January 1, 2025, just days after celebrating her 90th birthday on Christmas Eve. Janice was predeceased by her loving husband of 65 years, David Williams Sr., her parents Edgar and Gertrude Knowlton, and brothers Barry and Tony Knowlton, and brother-in-law Dr. Kenneth Hildreth.
She is survived by her sisters Rosemary Hildreth and Nancy (John) Mahoney, her five children: Lori (David) Warren, Donna (Alec) Kent, Kathy (David) Shanks, David Jr. (Loretta) Williams, and Sally (Paul) McIsaac. She was a proud grandmother to 10 grandchildren: Scott and Jennifer Warren, Christopher, Matthew, and Brandon Shanks, Kevin, Timothy, and Jenna Williams, and Hannah and Finlay McIsaac. Janice also leaves behind eight great-grandchildren: Patrick and Katherine Warren, Claudia and Carmen Shanks, Nora and Benjamin Loveland, and Eleanor and Harry Williams. The Morris-Johnston Funeral Home of Southborough assisted with arrangements.
June E. Eressy, 72
WORCESTER - June E. (Sullivan) Eressy, 72, of Worcester, passed away on January 4 at UMass Memorial Medical Center surrounded by her loving family.
Louise Williams, a beloved mother, grandmother, greatgrandmother and devoted wife, passed away peacefully
She is survived by her husband of 38 years, Michael E. Eressy; two daughters, Elizabeth A. Barker of Los Angeles and Carly M. Eressy of Austin; one son, Michael H. Eressy of Worcester, and his wife Kathryn; her precious young granddaughter, Lillian Rose Eressy; her sister, Nancy Buniowski of Worcester; and several nieces and nephews, including Kimberly Alario of Worcester and Kelly Cicio of Holden. June was predeceased by her brothers, John D. Sullivan, Jr., and Robert Sullivan, as well as her brotherin-law, Steven Buniowski. The daughter of John D. Sullivan, Sr., and Marilyn (Johnson) Sullivan, June was born in Worcester and raised in Shrewsbury, where she graduated from Shrewsbury High School. O’Connor Brothers Funeral Home of Worcester assisted with arrangements.
COMMUNITY SPORTS
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
MARLBOROUGH – The Marlboro Shamrocks will not take the field this season.
In an announcement posted on social media on Wednesday, Jan. 8, the Shamrocks said there were several factors in making the decision.
“This was not an easy decision many factors played into this decision, the main ones being Chris Chambers (owner), Adam Ingels (coowner) and Harrison Ingels (head coach) are all stepping away, as they do not have the time needed to put out what we deem the proper product for what a Marlboro Shamrock team should be,” the team wrote on Facebook. “The time invested in running a successful semi-pro [team] is a second job, and all three felt it was time to focus on their families and careers.”
The announcement also said that “many of the core players you have all loved and adored over the last five years of playing have all started families and want to spend their summers with them are stepping away.”
The decision was made at the end of 2024, but the team held off on making the announcement “out of respect for a few of our Shamrock brothers sadly passing away (including former coach Bob Brennan) and for the holidays.”
The Shamrocks thanked the
city and Bob Kays for their support, along with their “amazing fans” who “truly gave us a home field advantage like nothing else in semi-pro.”
The team also thanked the Shamrock Alumni, and their sponsors.
In 2022, the Shamrocks beat
the Brooklyn Seminoles to win the national championship. They also finished second in the nation in 2020. In addition, the team played in three league championships.
“It has been a hell of ride and who knows what the future holds,” the release said.
Marlborough’s Corey Spencer hands the ball off to running back Brett Anctil during the Shamrocks’ game against the Connecticut Mustangs in August. (Photo/Dakota Antelman)
Algonquin wins battle of Central Mass. girls hockey teams
By Evan Walsh Reporter
MARLBOROUGH – It was a stressful end to the game for Algonquin girls hockey.
Nursing a narrow, 2-1 lead late in the third period, the Titans watched the Shrewsbury Colonials take shot after shot in an effort to even the score. To make matters worse for Algonquin, the team committed four penalties in the game’s final 10 minutes, giving the Colonials multiple 5-on-3 situations.
But luckily, the Titans had Addy Cagan.
The junior goalie stopped everything in the third frame, helping the Titans defeat their Central Mass. rival, 3-1, on Jan. 13 at New England Sports Center in Marlborough. Cagan had already become a bonafide star during her team’s playoff push last year, but this year she’s playing with “so much confidence,” Head Coach Tina Beauchemin said.
“She played so confident. They had two 5-on-3 [situations], and Shrewsbury is a
great, great team. They play great positionally. I thought Addy totally played with confidence. She comes out, sees the puck, is reading the puck. It’s great to see that from her,” said Beauchemin.
Cagan finished with 30 saves.
Lauren O’Malley, a Hudson native and Algonquin’s captain, gave the Titans an early lead, scoring the game’s first goal with 11:51 remaining in the first period. After an intermission to
talk things over, Shrewsbury’s Lauren Albertson — assisted by Mariam Rabuck — responded early in the second frame, knotting the score at 1-1.
But the Titans quickly put themselves ahead once again. Madelyn Glynn’s shorthanded goal with 4:13 remaining in the second period put Algonquin in front, and — after Cagan’s determined effort to preserve the team’s lead — Glynn scored once more on an empty-netter with 0:03 remaining in the contest.
Algonquin was all smiles after pulling ahead. (Photo/Evan Walsh)
“The other team, Shrewsbury — they did a really great job of moving around,” said Glynn. “I think we hustled, really got to the puck.”
“They played well. They stuck to the plan. They got pucks to the net. They moved their legs. This is a great rivalry that we play against Shrewsbury, and they got up for this game. It’s a really good win for us, and it’s really great to play competition like that. It
By Dr. Donald Pelto Podiatrist
WESTBOROUGH – If you’ve noticed a painful bump on the back of your heel, it could be Haglund’s deformity, also known as a “pump bump.”
This bony growth at the Achilles tendon attachment is a common cause of heel pain, alongside Achilles tendonitis and heel spurs.
Irritated by stiff-backed shoes, it often leads to swelling, redness, and discomfort. While these bumps don’t grow quickly, in�lammation
can make them feel larger and more painful.
Treatment Options
The �irst step in treating Haglund’s deformity involves icing to reduce swelling, anti-in�lammatory medications for pain relief, stretching, and foam rolling the Achilles tendon, along with switching to softer-backed shoes to minimize irritation.
At Central Massachusetts Podiatry, patients have access to advanced options for persistent cases, including Shockwave Therapy and
Amnio injections. Surgery is rarely needed but can offer relief in severe situations.
If you are dealing with foot, heel, or ankle pain, call (508) 757-4003 for an appointment. Same-day visits may be available in Westborough and Worcester.
Central Massachusetts Podiatry
508-757-4003
could’ve went any way — just a matter of a bounce,” added Beauchemin.
After advancing to the MIAA Division 2 semifinals last year, the Titans haven’t been perfect this season — they suffered a 3-0 loss to Natick in their first game of 2025 — but the loss galvanized the team, and the group has only become closer, the players said.
“It takes a while to get that chemistry going on the ice,” said Beauchemin, whose team includes players from five different Central Mass. schools.
“I think they’re believing in themselves more. It’s always tough coming from so many different schools, but now the freshmen are getting more comfortable, and they’re learning the systems.”
“I think we’re definitely working really hard in practice. We’re building team chemistry — we have a lot of pasta dinners, we have a fun time. Our coaches are really helping us during practices, we’re really focused, and it’s showing in the games we play,” said Glynn.
By Evan Walsh Reporter
WORCESTER – Look good. Feel good. Play good.
That was Grafton hockey’s philosophy on Jan. 11. Donning yellow-and-green throwback uniforms, the Gators took down the Marlborough Panthers, 3-0, along the shores of Lake Quinsigamond at Worcester’s Hon. Charles J. Buffone Skating Arena.
“I used to play against Grafton when they wore ‘the yellows,’ so it’s really nice to bring them back,” said Grafton Head Coach Mike Binkoski. “I have to give all the credit to our assistant coach Dave Wooten. He’s pretty much the mayor of Grafton. He went to Grafton, plays in Grafton, teaches in Grafton, and it was all his idea to bring them back.”
“They look awesome out there,” he added.
After falling to Marlborough in a 4-3 overtime loss on Dec. 30 — an ‘L’ that started a weeklong, three-game skid for
the Gators — Grafton understood it would take more than just the flashy “new” uniforms to ensure this game didn’t end in similar fashion.
So the Gators played with pace and effort throughout the contest, and with 2:27 remaining in the second period, their
work was finally rewarded. Asher Petrie scored his first career goal, getting his team ahead 1-0 and in position to get “back in the win column.”
“It was coming off the wall, and I stepped in, put it on the net. My guys did the work, screened the goalie. It just took
Grafton’s Asher Petrie (center) is surrounded by teammates after his first career goal, which put the Gators ahead 1-0. (Photo/Evan Walsh)
a lucky bounce and went in,” said Petrie.
Those bright-yellow uniforms made Grafton’s celebration hard to miss. The Gators were clearly very excited about their teammate’s accomplishment.
From there, the Gators added to their lead. Assisted by Sammy Haskell and Kevin Branda, Anthony Dionis gave Grafton insurance, widening his team’s lead to 2-0 with 13:06 remaining. An emptynetter from Juan Scott made the score 3-0.
“It all starts in practice. This group is a tremendous group of student athletes. Every day they come to practice, they work their hardest. They do what we coach them on. They’re working, they’re listening, they’re coachable. Every day, there’s good energy, good effort — and that translates into games,” said Binkoski.
“It was everything we work on. Getting pucks back to the point, D-men picking their heads up, finding the lane, keeping the shot nice and low, and getting bodies to the front. Asher is one of the best at that — keeping the shot nice and low, keeping the shot on net. It was his first career goal, so that’s really nice to see,” added Binkoski.
