SHREWSBURY – Shrewsbury voters will head to the polls on Feb. 4 to determine whether the town will stick with the MBTA zoning plan approved by Town Meeting in November.
This will be the second referendum in Shrewsbury history.
The zone
Shrewsbury’s proposed MBTA zone — otherwise known as the “Transit Oriented Development Overlay District” — is a contiguous, 118-acre area located in southeast Shrewsbury that contains three main parcels: Shrewsbury Commons, 409 South Street, and Emerald Run.
As an “adjacent community” accordMBTA | 5
Martinek resigns from Planning Board
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor
NORTHBOROUGH – Chair Kerri Martinek announced that she will be resigning from the Planning Board during the board’s meeting on Jan. 21.
“I will be leaving Northborough. Location TBD, but I won’t be eligible to serve on the board,” she said.
Martinek thanked her fellow board members, town staff, residents, applicants and members of other boards.
“It’s been a great honor, and I’ve really enjoyed working with you all. We’ve certainly had a lot of interesting times together,” she said.
Martinek was first elected to the Planning Board in 2018 and was re -
Martinek | 13
McKenzie helps seniors stay ‘fit for life’
Karen McKenzie’s show “Fit for Life with Karen” recently hit the 200-episode mark. (Photo/Evan Walsh)
By Evan Walsh Reporter
SHREWSBURY – “If we’re going to live longer, why not be happier and healthier?”
That question is posed by a Shrewsbury woman whose life has revolved around demystifying aging, supporting seniors, and educating elders.
Through her television shows on Shrewsbury Media Connection and Westborough TV, Karen McKenzie has helped people stay “fit for life” and “on the move.”
“Aging is complex, and I want people to delay the time of disability as long as possible — through exercise, through information,” said McKenzie. “It’s very sat-
isfying to know that I’m helping people. When people come up to me, I feel like I’m a movie star.”
Originally from the Boston area, McKenzie moved to Shrewsbury in 1966. Always passionate about helping the senior population, she earned a degree from Worcester State University in health science, later receiving a certificate in gerontology. She worked as a Senior Fitness Specialist at The Willows in Westborough, managing a cutting-edge senior exercise room that was featured in the Boston Globe.
But, outside of her job, she didn’t see many places seniors could get up-to-date information on how to improve their Stay up to date with all the news! Edinberg does not seek another term on Select Board Grafton
Happy Holidays
support and understanding of your Christopher Heights family. You will also enjoy quality care, well–balanced meals prepared with fresh seasonal ingredients, lively group activities, and your own
Christopher Heights off season of your life! In our community you will be surrounded by the support and understanding of your Christopher Heights family. You will also enjoy quality care, well–balanced meals prepared with fresh seasonal ingredients, lively group activities, and your own private apartment. Don’t weather the seasons alone, let us take care of you in your new home!
Christopher Heights
To learn more about our senior lifestyle plans or to schedule a tour, call 508-281-8001 today. We would love to hear from you!
senior lifestyle plans
ingredients, lively group activities, and your own private apartment. Don’t weather the seasons alone, let us take care of you in your new home!
Christopher Heights offers unique senior lifestyle plans to fit every season of your life! In our community you will be surrounded by the support and understanding of your Christopher Heights family. You will also enjoy quality care, well–balanced meals prepared with fresh seasonal ingredients, lively group activities, and your own private apartment. Don’t weather the seasons alone, let us take care of you in your new home!
To learn more about our senior lifestyle plans or to schedule a tour, call 508-281-8001 today. We would love to hear from you!
learn more about our senior lifestyle plans or to schedule a tour, call 508-281-8001 today. We would to hear from you!
every season of your life! In our community you will be surrounded by the support and understanding of your Christopher Heights family. You will also enjoy quality care, well–balanced meals prepared with fresh seasonal ingredients, lively group activities, and your own private apartment. Don’t weather the seasons alone, let us take care of you in your new home!
To learn more about our senior lifestyle plans or to schedule a tour, call 508-281-8001 today. We would love to hear from you! Don’t delay! Apply at
www.christopherheights.com 99 Pleasant Street • Marlborough, MA 01752 508-281-8001
Don’t delay! Apply at Christopherheights.com/apply
To learn more about our senior lifestyle plans or to schedule a tour, call 508-281-8001 today. We would love to hear from you!
delay! Apply at
Don’t delay! Apply at Christopherheights.com/apply
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
MBTA Communities Act
3A: An Appeal to Common Sense
While the SJC ruled 3A is constitutional, it’s important to note that the 18 pages of detailed guidelines governing the act were determined ineffective and unenforceable. The state agency (EOHLC) responsible for promulgating the guidelines didn’t follow the proper legislative process called the Administrative Procedures Act (APA). The APA requires both fiscal and small business impact studies for 177 communities along with a public comment period. The APA is intended to protect the public. It ensures government agencies are accountable, transparent and fair in their rulemaking and enforcement activities. All reliable and substantial public comments on proposed policies must be considered. The APA also provides opportunities to challenge agency actions legally. These steps cannot be ignored and are an important part of the democratic process. Post decision, the governor declared a win and enacted “emergency” pow -
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
ers bypassing the SJC’s ruling. These emergency regulations, although being challenged, are valid for 90 days. The EOHLC is then required to follow the APA. Records indicate that 41 municipalities have been determined and rendered compliant by the EOHLC and Attorney General. The state announced they will work with the remaining communities towards a compliant path without threat of grant loss or legal action. The new compliance deadline is July 14, 2025.
How does this impact Shrewsbury? Under the unenforceable guidelines, Shrewsbury was considered an adjacent community and was required to zone for a minimum of 1,500 multi-family housing units with no age or occupancy limits, as-of-right. Viewing this complex issue through the lens of common sense says if you zone it, they will build. Common sense says the compliance guidelines will change. Common sense says to wait until the final guidelines are codified into law before putting forth the best plan for our community. Com-
The Community Advocate’s Policy on Letters to the Editor
mon sense would not check a box and reward the state for not following the proper legislative process. Common sense would hold state leaders and agencies accountable. Common sense would vote No on February 4th and protect our residents and town from unintended consequences.
Kristy Martineau-Richards No4Shrewsbury.org
As concerned residents of Shrewsbury, we are writing to urge our fellow neighbors to vote “No” in the February 4 special election. This is a pivotal moment for our town, and we must carefully consider the long-term implications of the decisions being rushed through by our local leadership.
Shrewsbury’s select board had the opportunity to place the referendum question on our annual May town election ballot at no additional cost to taxpayers. In addition, a May election would have expanded voter access by utilizing standard polling hours instead of
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 90 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.
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the limited hours of 2-8PM the expedited February 4 date requires. Holding this special election with minimal polling hours exacerbates concerns that leadership is prioritizing expedience over transparency and the good of the residents.
The MBTA Communities Act mandates compliance with zoning changes to encourage housing near transit, but the Supreme Judicial Court found it’s guidelines ineffective and unenforceable. This ruling prompted the state to publish “emergency” regulations until the proper regulatory process could be completed.
Our officials are using fear to misrepresent the risks of losing current and future grants. The “emergency” regulations created a new compliance deadline of July 14, 2025 eliminating any potential loss of grant funding. Governor Healey has confirmed in writing that Shrewsbury is not at risk of losing grants.
By voting “Yes,” Shrewsbury will create an as-of-right zone for high-density, market-rate apartment complexes. Once this zoning is approved, it can-
Hops
not easily be undone, even if future state guidelines change. We’ve seen how unchecked development has strained our town’s infrastructure, traffic, schools, and green spaces. This law does NOT create affordable housing, it creates dense, market-price expensive development.
We chose to live in a town, not a city. Instead of approving unnecessary growth without the guarantee of compliance to future guidelines, our officials should focus on listening to the needs of residents, rather than consistent knee-jerk reactions to false fears of “compliance.” We need leadership that listens to residents, respects our concerns, and prioritizes sustainable development.
On February 4, vote “No” to protect Shrewsbury from hasty and irreversible decisions. Together, we can chart a thoughtful path forward.
Sincerely,
Brian Costello, Chairman –Vote No 4 Shrewsbury Caroline Macomber, Treasurer – Vote No 4 Shrewsbury
Hops, the flowers of the Humulus lupulus plant, are a vital ingredient in brewing beer, offering bitterness, flavor, and aroma. These cone-shaped blossoms are rich in alpha acids, which, when boiled, release the bitterness that balances a beer’s sweetness. Additionally, their essential oils contribute diverse aromas ranging from floral and citrusy to earthy and spicy, shaping the character of various beer styles. Hops also have a storied history beyond brewing, serving medicinal purposes such as promoting relaxation, alleviating anxiety, and improving sleep. Rich in antioxidants and antiinflammatory compounds, they offer potential health benefits. Cultivated in regions with temperate climates, such as the Pacific Northwest, Germany, and the Czech Republic, hops grow on tall trellises, climbing to impressive heights. Depending on the hop variety, notes and aromas can include orange, lemon, lime, pine, resin, marijuana, pineapple, mango, cedar, kiwi, guava, strawberry, blueberry, and more. The beer department at JULIO’S LIQUORS contains one of the largest selections of microbrews, domestics, imports, Belgians and Trappist beers, totaling over 1,000 beers in stock!
Please call 508-366-1942 for more information, or visit us at 140 Turnpike Rd., Rt. 9 East
P.S. The craft beer movement has fueled a demand for innovative hop varieties, encouraging growers to develop unique strains that enhance brewing creativity and flavor diversity.
WESTBOROUGH – The Affordable Housing Trust (AHT) has two programs available for those needing help paying their rent.
The Westborough Rental Assistance Program (WRAP) is an emergency rental assistance program for eligible residents.
The program is administered by Metro West Collaborative Development and is fully confidential.
WRAP provides financial assistance for costs associated with rental housing for households with incomes: less than 80% of Area Median Income (AMI); or at or below 200% of the federal poverty level.
WRAP provides two forms of
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assistance.
Stabilization assistance, which provides up to two months rental assistance for households experiencing a temporary financial setback, like illness or job loss. According to AHT member Allen Edinberg, the program is meant as a bridge until the household can enter into state programs.
First introduced during the
Covid-19 pandemic, Edinberg said the program proved to be very effective.
The second is rent increase mitigation, which provides assistance for households facing financial hardship or eviction resulting from significant increases in their monthly rent. This assistance provides up to $500/month for four months to households paying more than
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50% of their income on rent due to a recent rent increase.
“It’s to prevent people from getting evicted,” said Edinberg. “It gives them time to renegotiate with their landlord, or to find another place.”
WRAP is currently a oneyear pilot program funded by the AHT. Edinberg said, “There is a significant need” for such programs; the AHT is currently seeking grants or other longterm financial sources to maintain the program.
To learn more about WRAP and other assistance programs, visit https://www.westboroughma.gov/CivicAlerts. aspx?AID=258
Down payment program
The AHT will soon launch a program to assist qualified firsttime home buyers with down payment and closing costs.
According to Edinberg, the AHT would provide up to $3,000 toward down payment and closing costs. There would be three tiers — deferred payment loan, where the owner would repay should they sell the house; deferred payment loan with forgiveness, where a portion of the loan would be forgiven depending on how long the applicant owns the home; and a grant, with no repayment required.
Edinberg said this is a pilot program to augment other down-payment programs available.
AHT projects
The AHT is engaged in converting several properties in town into affordable housing.
3 Baylor Road – In 2022, the AHT obtained the property from the town, which had seized it through a tax taking. The house has been torn down; a new affordable house will be constructed, with assistance from Habitat for Humanity.
6 Beach St. and 45 High St. Extension – the AHT is in early stages of developing both properties for starter homes.
18 and 30 Lyman – The AHT is planning to provide a subsidy to provide more affordable units at 18 and 30 Lyman St. The developer, Colangelo Massachusetts Real Estate LLC, is planning to convert the two buildings into a mix of retail and housing.
For information on the AHT, go to https://www.westboroughma.gov/839/AffordableHousing-Trust
Shrewsbury MBTA referendum set for February 4
ing to the MBTA Communities Act, Shrewsbury must zone to permit 1,497 housing units, which is equal to 10 percent of the town’s current housing stock. Shrewsbury only needs to zone for the units — it does not need to build them.
In an effort to lessen the potential impact of the zone, and mitigate the amount of housing that may be built, town officials zoned on pre-existing and soon-to-be-existing housing projects. Emerald Run (300 units) and 409 South Street (196 units) are both sites of future 40B developments, while Shrewsbury Commons is an existing 587-unit, 53-acre development.
Though the MBTA zone could technically accommodate 1,512 units at 15 units per acre, town officials estimate that with the pre-existing development, it’s likely that significantly fewer units would be constructed. The “net new unit” count would be approximately 426.
Town Meeting on Nov. 18 approved the zone, 123-50, after about two hours of debate.
Town Meeting’s approval of MBTA zoning was immediately challenged. A group of locals exercised Section 16 of Chapter 553 of the Acts of 1953, an old government statute that allows residents to call for a referendum as long as five percent of registered voters sign a petition.
On Dec. 2, the deadline for submitting the petition, residents had gathered 1,843 signatures, well above the fivepercent threshold of 1,349. On Dec. 5, Town Clerk Sharyn Thomas certified the signatures of 1,706 Shrewsbury residents, prompting the referendum. Presented with four options, the Select Board chose Feb. 4 as the referendum date.
Shrewsbury had technically passed MBTA zoning in November, but since the referendum was not held prior to the state’s Dec. 31 deadline for MBTA zoning compliance, Shrewsbury entered 2025 as a
non-compliant community.
What’s changed since In the midst of the Town Meeting vote and scheduling the subsequent referendum, Massachusetts was awaiting a decision regarding a case before the Supreme Judicial Court involving the town of Milton.
Milton — which held a referendum similar to Shrewsbury’s one year ago — was challenging the extent to which the Attorney General’s office can enforce the MBTA zoning mandate.
In a decision released in early January, the Supreme Judicial Court ruled that the MBTA Communities Act was constitutional, but that the existing guidelines were unenforceable. New “emergency” guidelines released by the state give “adjacent” communities until July 2025 to comply. Since the deadline has been extended, Shrewsbury is no longer noncompliant.
Proponents, opponents
Ahead of the Feb. 4 referendum, two campaign groups formed: “Community Supporters for Responsible Shrewsbury” and “Vote NO 4 Shrewsbury.”
For proponents of MBTA zoning, the choice comes down to being responsible and following state law — non-compliance may leave Shrewsbury with lawsuits and without access to 29 state grants. The proposed zone doesn’t require any housing units to be built, proponents say.
“Political activists with ideological motivations want you to think that voting ‘NO’ will stop building; it won’t. They want to ‘send a message’ to the state — a costly political point that risks the town being sued. This vote does not impact any area of town outside a small zone, where no additional development is required beyond what is already in the pipeline,” wrote Beth Shea Bryant of “Community Supporters for Responsible Shrewsbury” in the election information sent to Shrewsbury
residents.
However, the opponents argue that if you zone it, developers will come. There are also concerns about overdevelopment, state overreach, strain on town infrastructure and increases in taxes. As far as discretionary grants go, opponents said they are not part of the budget — and they’re not guaranteed.
“Fear-based individuals use the affordable housing crisis, compliance and lost grants to justify a ‘YES’ vote. This act doesn’t solve the affordability
What is on the ballot
A “YES” vote at the Feb. 4 referendum is a vote for Town Meeting’s decision to approve MBTA zoning. A “NO” vote at the Feb. 4 referendum is a vote against Town Meeting’s decision to approve MBTA zoning.
What to know for the Feb. 4 Shrewsbury referendum
Date: Feb. 4. Polls will only be open from 2 to 8 p.m.
Should “NO” win, the town would maintain its current zoning. For “NO” to win the day on Feb. 4, it needs to meet two criteria. First, “NO” must receive a majority of the votes cast. Second, 20 percent of registered Shrewsbury voters must vote “NO.” In other words, “NO” may beat its opponent in votes, but if 20 percent of all the town’s voters (around 5,400 residents) don’t vote for it, “YES” wins by default. The polls will only be open from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.
A “YES” vote on the ballot will uphold the action of Town Meeting in November that created an MBTA zoning district, or Transit Oriented Development (TOD) District.
A “NO” vote will reject the action of Town Meeting in November, maintaining current zoning.
For “NO” to win the day on Feb. 4, it must meet two criteria:
- “NO” must receive a majority of the votes cast
- “NO” must receive votes from at least 20% of registered Shrewsbury voters (about 5,400 residents) crisis. It only benefits for-profit developers. Voters are being misled by politicians touting that more development will lower housing costs, it will not,” wrote Brian Costello of “Vote NO 4 Shrewsbury.”
MBTA
Bird deaths attributed to bird flu in Marlborough, Hudson
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
REGION – An outbreak of avian influenza has led to the death of several birds in Marlborough and Hudson.
On Friday, Jan. 24, the Gianquinto Wildlife Rehabilitation Center reported that at least a half-dozen Canada geese were found dead at Hager Pond in Marlborough.
“This is consistent to what we are seeing across the region with the outbreak of HPAI,” according to the release from the center.
The center advises residents not to remove the deceased birds from the pond or shoreline. The city’s Animal Control is aware of the situation; the center added they are aware of a bald eagle nearby and was spotted feeding on a deceased carcass.
Avian influenza can spread from dead birds to raptors.
Early on Saturday, Jan. 25, Hudson Police, Fire and the Board of Health located a dead swan and Canada goose at Bruces Pond.
(Photo/Courtesy of Town of Hudson)
to touch any dead birds if they come across them. Instead, sightings of dead birds should be reported, and the Animal Control officer can be notified to safely pick them up.
The Hudson Health Department recommends the following additional precautions:
Observe wildlife from a safe distance: Avoid approaching birds or other wildlife, even if they appear injured or sick.
Practice good hygiene: Sanitize your hands and shoes if you’ve been near wildlife.
Report concerns: Report deceased wild birds at https:// tinyurl.com/3ctmc9ct or contact the Hudson Board of Health at 978-562-2020.
The center has notified MassWildlife of the situation, and has advised residents to not bring pets to the Hager Pond area and allow them off-leash.
Street on Saturday, Jan. 25.
In Hudson, a swan and Canada goose were found dead at Bruces Pond off Apsley
Unload Your Distress
Lauren Antonelli, director of the Hudson Health Department, reassures residents that the risk to humans remains minimal.
“While bird flu primarily affects birds, the risk to humans is extremely low. However, it’s important to take preventive measures and remain cautious to protect both people and animals,” she said. Residents are advised not
“We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as needed,” Antonelli added. “Residents should feel confident that the necessary measures are being taken to address this issue while keeping the community informed.”
Garden Club presents program on Tournament of Roses
NORTHBOROUGH – The Northborough Garden Club will present a program on the Tournament of Roses Parade on Tuesday, Feb. 4, at 6:30 p.m. at the Historical Society, 52 Main St. Club member Michelle Tang will show these stunning floats, lively marching bands and skilled equestrians while sharing her personal parade experiences and behindthe-scenes glimpses into the beauty and tradition of the Rose Parade.
Although not required, please register to attend this program via http://www. northboroughgardenclub.com
Established in 1925, the Garden Club’s mission continues to promote, encourage and foster an active interest in gardening, horticulture, beautification of the home and community, local civic projects and conservation. For information, contact Christine or Deborah at northboroughgardenclub@yahoo. com
Nomination papers for Northborough election available
NORTHBOROUGH – Nomination papers are now available for the Annual Town Election on Tuesday, May 13.
If you are interested in obtaining nomination papers, stop by the town clerk’s office, or go to https://www. town.northborough.ma.us/ sites/g/files/vyhlif12221/f/uploads/2025_ate_nomination_ paper_request_form.pdf and fill it out online.
Once the office receives your request, we will provide a confirmation e-mail along with additional instructions regarding the process.
Candidates are required to obtain 50 signatures of registered voters.
The following seats are available:
Moderator (one year) Select Board (three years) Planning Board (three and two years) School Committee (three years)
Northborough/Southborough Regional School Committee (three years)
The deadline to obtain nomination papers is 5 p.m. on Friday, March 21. The deadline to return nomination papers is 5 p.m. on Tuesday, March 25. On Election Day, voting will take place at Melican Middle School, 145 Lincoln St.
Southborough Town Election information
SOUTHBOROUGH – Nomination papers for the Annual Town Election on Tuesday, May 13, will be available starting on Friday, Feb. 14.
The following seats will be available:
Board of Assessors (one seat, three years)
Board of Commissioners of Trust Funds (one seat, three years)
Board of Health (one seat, three years)
Board of Trustees, Southborough Library (two seats, three years)
Moderator (one seat, one year)
Housing Authority (one seat, three years)
Northborough-Southborough Regional School Committee (Southborough
candidate – one seat, three years)
Planning Board (one seat, five years)
Select Board (two seats, three years)
Southborough School Committee (two seats, three years)
The last day to obtain nomination papers is March 24; the deadline to submit nomination papers is April 8; and the deadline to withdraw or file objections is April 10.
Campaign finance reports for all candidates are due on May 5 (pre-election) and June 12 (post-election).
For information, contact the town clerk’s office at 508485-0710, ext. 3005, or go to https://www.southboroughma.gov/195/Town-Clerk
‘Gala Jr.’ returns to Northborough
NORTHBOROUGH – The Northborough Education Foundation will host “Gala Jr.,” a sweetheart dance for children and their favorite grown-ups, on Saturday, Feb. 8, at Algonquin Regional High School, 79 Bartlett St. The event is recommended for ages 0-6 from 4:30 to 6 p.m.; and for ages 7-12 from
6:30 to 8 p.m.
In addition to dancing, light hors d’oeuvres will be served by Sir Loin Catering. Special keepsake corsages will be available for $10 each, and boutonnieres for $6 each. Tickets are $15 per child, $25 per adult.
For information, go to https://northboroughed.org/
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – This year’s Town Election will feature contested races for Select Board and School Committee.
There will be four candidates for the two available seats on the Select Board. Patrick Welch is running for re-election; the others are Mark Silverberg (currently on the Planning Board), Kelly Collins and Boyd Conklin.
Allen Edinberg decided not to run for reelection.
Six candidates, including incumbent and current Chair Stephen Doret, will be in the running for the two open seats on the School Committee. The other candidates include Conklin, Anjana M. Chennagiri, E. Jane Clapp (currently on the Advisory Finance Committee), Kris Prabhakar Kumsi and Jane S. Owens.
Steven Bachelor is not running for re-election.
The remaining races are uncontested: Planning Board (5-year term) – 1 seat available
John P. Gelcich – candidate for re-election Planning Board (1-year term) - 1 seat available Christina Kelleher – candidate for election Trustees of the Public Library (3-year term)3 seats available
Edward Knight Baldwin – candidate for re-
election
Kathleen A. Daly – candidate for re-election
Mary Johnston – candidate for re-election Trustees of Soldier’s Memorials (3-year termveteran seat) – 1 seat available
John Gallinagh – candidate for re-election Westborough Housing Authority (5-year term) - 1 seat available
Joan B. Pavolis – candidate for re-election
Election schedule
Thursday, Feb. 6 - last day, until 5 p.m., to object or withdraw papers.
Friday, Feb. 28 – last day, until 5 p.m., to register to vote for Annual Town Election and Annual Town Meeting.
Tuesday, March 4 – last day to post Town Election/Town Meeting Warrant.
Wednesday, March 5 – last day, at 5 p.m., to request a vote by mail ballot.
Tuesday, March 11, Annual Town Election – all precincts (1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6) at Westborough High School in the gym, 90 W. Main St.
Candidates’ Forum
The Westborough Democratic Town Committee will sponsor a candidates’ forum on Sunday, March 2, at 6 p.m. at the Willows, 1 Lyman St.
Those having questions for the candidates are asked to submit them using this form: https:// forms.gle/CGzGwY4MEvdBu8
COMMUNITY HISTORY
Transportation
By Kristen Remillard History Columnist
GRAFTON – Before Grafton was purchased from the Native Americans in 1727, there were nine “English families” living in the town of Hassanamisco (now Grafton). One of those families was Samuel Cooper and his wife Sarah. When the town no longer belonged to the Native Americans, the ball got rolling on a “civilized” way of life, as the settlers saw it. Samuel Cooper, though not one of the original proprietors of Grafton, participated in several roles that were important to the new and growing town.
According to town records, in 1732, Cooper became a deacon of the First Parish church.
Family Owned & Operated for Over 60 Years
took good care of his horses. He was known to carry oats and when it was feeding time for the horses the passengers were expected to wait while they were fed and had a muchneeded break.
The horse and wagon method was used until 1812 when the stagecoach line was established by a man named Henry Richardson. A stagecoach was multifunctional, transporting mail, including packages and people far distances. This was a more prestigious form of transportation for people and typically pulled by two to four horses.
In less than one hundred years, transportation in Grafton evolved from horse-drawn wagons and coaches to trains, then trolleys like the one pictured here during the early 20th century, and then to buses and automobiles. (Photo/ courtesy of Grafton Historical Society)
In 1738, he was paid three pounds and 40 shillings to be school keeper, and in 1739
West Main Street
he served as the town clerk. Samuel and Sarah would have four children between the
years 1720 and 1729, who were all born in Grafton.
Some of their children stayed in Grafton. A notable character of the Cooper family was Samuel’s great-grandson, Abner Cooper of Northbridge, who was a deacon, a farmer and a delivery man. Abner would experience unexpected developments of transportation during his career, including being the first man to deliver the mail from Worcester and Providence in the early 1800s by horseback and later by a wagon pulled by two horses.
This allowed Abner to not only deliver the mail, but he could also carry passengers from one place to another. The journeys were long, but he
The evolution of public transportation for the settlers happened fairly quickly. During that time, people believed that the human body could not travel at high rates of speed. The speeds at which trains could travel were foreign to people and no one knew what to expect. In 1847, the Blackstone Canal, a common way to transport people and goods, was superseded by the Providence and Worcester Railroad, which also ran the same route as the canal.
The Grafton Centre Railroad came along in 1874 and in 1887 expanded into the Grafton & Upton Railroad, as we know it today. By the early 1900s, a trolley line replaced the passenger service on the Grafton train line until 1928 when the Johnson Bus Line took over transporting Grafton residents. Also in the early 1900s, automobiles were becoming available and more affordable for the average family to purchase.
Early settlers like Samuel Cooper of Grafton and his great-grandson Abner would experience tremendous changes over the course of their lives. Abner experienced many developments in the mode of transportation during his life, which cost him his job. He did however become a notable character in the story of local travel by being the first to connect two new places and devising much-needed efficiency to his work. He would be the beginning in our long history of transportation.
Winter is Coming
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Independent & Assisted Living, and Memory Care in Marlborough
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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!
This is a paid advertisement
Judy Boyle, RealtoR®
Proudly serving the Boroughs and beyond with honesty and integrity since 2005
www.judyboylecares.com
JudyBoyleRealtor@gmail.com 508-561-7164
The Off Market Listing – Why It Could Work For You
Afew
years ago, I started talking about the off-market listing and how it was a viable option for some homeowners who didn’t want to sell their homes in the traditional way. In most cases, those homeowners wanted to take advantage of the strong sellers’ market but didn’t have the time, energy or even the funds to properly prepare their homes for the Multiple Listing Service. Between 2021 and 2024, I had successfully guided numerous homeowners in selling their homes for top dollar and with optimal terms.
Entering 2025, I am going to keep talking about the offmarket method as it has proven to be the ideal solution for so many home sellers….and the results were just as successful, if not better, than had they gone the traditional route.
Also referred to as a non-MLS listing, the process of listing off-market is simple: first, the Real Estate Agent establishes market value. If the numbers work for the homeowner, a listing contract is signed and the agent taps into his or her network to find ready, willing and able buyers. The buyers are made aware of this “exclusive opportunity” to see the house before anyone else. The buyers are also informed that the property is not necessarily in “show” condition, if that is the case, and will be sold “as is”. For the most part, today’s buyers welcome any advantage, so they comply with all the rules.
Before even scheduling a showing, the agent will verify that all buyers are financially capable of completing the transaction and informs them that the price is the price….no negotiation. Once the buyer passes this rigorous screening, the agent schedules a showing. Once an Offer to Purchase is signed, the transaction continues in the traditional way. The buyer is happy because there is little or no competition. The seller is happy because they sold their house for the price they wanted, without having to do a thing.
While some agents may disagree and claim that the best way to get the highest price is to list on the MLS, this alternative method is working. But don’t take my word for it. Let’s hear about actual homeowners that have used the off-market method and why it worked for them.
Case #1: Tony is a Master Electrician who works more than sixty hours per week and has a shop full of expensive equipment in the basement of his house. Tony struggled with how he could ever pack up his shop or prepare his bachelor pad for listing….until I introduced him to the off-market method. We found a well-qualified and serious buyer who not only paid Tony’s target price but then allowed Tony to take his time moving his shop and residence after closing.
Case #2: Elizabeth writes: “My husband and I decided to sell our home of 27 years when we had the opportunity to move into my parent’s home after their recent passing. We contacted Judy who located comparative properties and did a market analysis. Our plan was to put our home on the market in the spring, giving us time to purge and prepare our home for the sale. The whole prospect was overwhelming and Judy recognized this. She mentioned the off-market method and within a week, she came back with a young couple who were in the market to purchase their first home. This couple loved our home and made us an offer that we immediately accepted. This process has been very smooth, thanks to Judy. We never put the house on the market, got the price that we wanted, and had four months to clear out. We avoided all the stress.”
For a limited time, we are offering our one-bedroom apartments at an all-inclusive rental rate. These units are thoughtfully designed for single residents (or a cozy couple) seeking to downsize, simplify, and embrace a stress-free lifestyle. Most importantly, you’ll become part of The Willows at Westborough campus, where comfort, care, and community make every day special. Simplify your life and start enjoying the comfort and care you deserve—schedule a visit today!
508-366-4730
The Willows at Westborough One Lyman Street, Westborough, MA 01581
Case #3: Homeowners R and J were ready to upgrade but would need to sell their existing home to buy their next one. They had the rare good fortune of getting an offer accepted with a home sale contingency but they needed to get their home under agreement quickly. With three young children and a house full of toys, the only solution was using the offmarket method. We took a chance and listed their home at a price point indicative of an “MLS ready” property. Within one day we had multiple offers and the property sold for 5% over asking.
Bottom line: If you have been thinking about selling your home but dread the time and energy that is typically associated with packing, purging and preparation….or just need to sell your home quickly…using the off-market method just might be the way to go.
Boyle has been a real estate agent since 2005 and is a member of the distinguished RE/MAX Hall of Fame. Boyle is also a Children’s Miracle Network “Miracle Agent” for her commitment to making a donation to Boston Children’s Hospital on behalf of every home buyer and seller she assists. Boyle’s mission is to offer solutions while she empowers her clients to make wise decisions through datadriven insights and local market knowledge. She invites you to call or email her for the Winter 2025 Home Buyer and/or Seller Guides or for a complimentary market analysis.
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor
NORTHBOROUGH – Looking to sharpen your cricket or baseball skills? A new Northborough business has you covered.
The Dugout Corner is located at 75 W. Main St. Founders Maqsood Mughal, Syed Hussein and Syed Faheemuddin have been playing cricket in Massachusetts for the past several years.
“Cricket is getting really big in the U.S. There’s a lot of demand for cricket,” said Mughal.
People look for places to play cricket, particularly during the winter when they can’t play outside. Mughal and the others would have to travel to Ashland to play at a facility.
“We thought there should be more as cricket is growing, and in winter we can’t play outside,” said Mughal.
Compared to facilities where one player would have to pitch the ball to others, the Dugout Corner uses a robot to pitch the ball. They also use technol-
Holiday Passport program winners
WESTBOROUGH – During its meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 7, the Economic Development Committee picked the winners for the Holiday Passport Program raffle.
Jean Katralis won a gift card from Elsie Kay; Amara Khalife won a spa gift basket; and Catherine Neville won a gift card from Arturo’s Restaurant.
The Westborough Holiday Passport was a loyalty program, sponsored by the committee, to promote shopping locally during the holiday season.
Customers picked up loyalty cards at municipal offices or participating businesses. When customers made a purchase at a participating business, they had their card stamped with a unique sticker for those businesses. Once someone made a purchase at (and had the card “stamped” by) 10 different businesses, the customer could leave the card in a drop box to be entered into a raffle drawing.
More than 30 businesses, including downtown and along Turnpike Road, participated this year.
ogy to make the player feel like they are in the stadium, playing against international athletes. They have three lanes to simulate both cricket and baseball at different difficulty levels adapted for both children and adults, making it ideal for family outings. The Dugout Corner calls it “social” cricket and
baseball, as the experience is for all ages and loved ones to sit back and enjoy a meal while the players play. The business will also show live sporting games.
Sessions can last 30, 50, 80 or 110 minutes and can accommodate multiple players taking turns.
“There aren’t many places
like this,” said Mughal.
The Dugout Corner also offers players a chance to experience baseball and cricket in their virtual reality gaming room.
The Dugout Corner hosted its first birthday party this past month. The staff can also host corporate events, youth groups
and school events.
They also hope to offer more activities in the future in their space upstairs, such as pool, table tennis, arcade games and foosball.
For more information on the Dugout Corner, visit https:// www.dugoutcorner.com/ menu/welcome/.
Maqsood Mughal demonstrates how the the lanes work.
The Dugout Corner features three lanes that can accommodate both cricket and baseball. (Photos/Laura Hayes)
Shrewsbury Historical Society recalls Blizzard of ’78
By Evan Walsh Reporter
SHREWSBURY – The Blizzard of ’78 was a hot topic on Jan. 22, as a crowd gathered at the Shrewsbury Historical Society to relive the infamous blizzard and hear from New York Times
bestselling author Michael Tougias.
Tougias has written two books on the blizzard, “The Blizzard of ’78” and “Ten Hours Until Dawn,” which chronicles a daring ocean rescue during the peak of the storm. After a presentation that “brought the
blizzard back to life,” Tougias signed books for the audience.
On Feb. 6 and 7, 1978, New England was hit with a historic nor’easter. Over 70 people died, schools were shut down for weeks, and the storm caused over $1 billion in damages.
“It was the only winter I ever missed in New England. I missed that storm, and when I heard about it, I thought that people were exaggerating,” Tougias told the Community Advocate. “What I heard was that the people who made it home — it was a wonderful
experience. Neighbors pitched in, everybody helped each other. If you didn’t make it home, it was a nightmare. Sleeping in a movie theatre for four nights.”
Many of the attendees also had strong memories about the blizzard.
Shrewsbury Historical Society President Erik Larson was attending Worcester State College during the storm. He remembered that school was canceled for a whole week.
“We couldn’t get out there to plow cars out, because we needed machinery to haul snow and get it off the roads. People couldn’t move around. Interstate 290 was a parking lot — cars just abandoned,” said Larson.
The talk was part of the Shrewsbury Historical Society’s ongoing presentation series. There will be a discussion on travel and transportation in early-19th-century New England on Feb. 26, Belva Lockwood on March 26, and SAC Park’s 100th anniversary on April 23.
“There’s a wide range of interests in history throughout the community, so you try to offer a wide variety of programming so it meets everyone’s needs within the community and they can all be involved. We have performers, we have authors, we have original research about the town of Shrewsbury,” said Shrewsbury Historical Society Vice President Kris Gustafson.
For more information on the Shrewsbury Historical Society, visit https://www.shrewsburyhistoricalsociety.org/.
On Jan. 22, Michael Tougias (left image) spoke with the Shrewsbury Historical Society about the Blizzard of ‘78, which led to intense waves along the coast (middle) and significant snowfall throughout New England (right). (Photos/Courtesy)
health and wellness. With a lively personality and a “go-getter” attitude, McKenzie decided to create the content herself. Her talk show “Seniors on the Move” was first taped at The Willows in 2004.
“I didn’t see anything for seniors. I wanted to get information out for seniors to make more intelligent decisions about their health. We also get into Alzheimer’s, fall prevention. I wanted folks to have health information and to educate themselves. I wanted to show them the importance of movement and staying active,” said McKenzie. “And there’s so much to say, I never run out of ideas.”
Since 2004, McKenzie has recorded over 200 episodes of “Seniors on the Move.” During the pandemic, she wanted to give seniors an easy way to get active, so she started “Fit for Life with Karen,” a follow-along exercise program that hit the 200-episode mark in November.
In 1966, McKenzie was di -
agnosed with Type 1 diabetes, something she’s had to manage throughout her life. But diabetes has hardly stopped her. Between planning and recording her two highly-acclaimed television shows, McKenzie volunteers for the town’s Memory Café.
“Reaching 200 episodes was a real feeling of accomplish -
ment. People come up to me and tell me how much I’ve helped. I’m not doing it so people can see how great I am. Because of my disease, I wanted to live a long, clearer life, and I was just looking for information constantly,” she said.
And, as of now, there’s no plans to stop filming.
Martinek resigns from Planning Board
cently re-elected last year.
Planning Board Vice Chair Amy Poretsky praised Martinek for running a “great meeting,” saying she was a great Planning Board member. Fellow member Millie Milton wished Martinek well and said they have been honored to have her as a member of the board.
“You’ve really, really done a great job leading this board,” said Milton.
Planning Director Laurie Connors thanked Martinek for welcoming her.
“I know that I was different from what you were used to, and I really appreciate both you and the entire board being flexible and open minded about how I do things different from my predecessor and being kind and welcoming,” said Connors.
With the resignation, there is now a vacancy on the Planning Board. The town is accepting applications to fill the seat until the May
13 election. A new member will be jointly appointed by the Planning Board and the Select Board.
Candidates will also be able to run to serve the remaining two years of Martinek’s term.
“I’ll always have Northborough at heart. You won’t see the last of me,” said Martinek.
For information on how to apply for the vacancy, visit https://www.town.northborough.ma.us/home/news/ planning-board-vacancy.
up to $5 (Present coupon, to receive discount)
Martinek | from page 1
Kerri Martinek
Karen McKenzie appears on Shrewsbury Media Connection and Westborough TV. (Photo/Screenshot/Westborough TV)
SCHOOLS
AMSA celebrates opening of new academic building
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
MARLBOROUGH – In November 2023, Angelina DaSilva spoke at the groundbreaking for the new academic building for Advanced Math and Science Academy (AMSA) on Forest Street.
On Thursday, Jan. 23, she spoke again — this time inside the newly finished building. Now a sophomore, the Hudson resident joined fellow students, faculty, city officials and local business leaders in celebrating the expansion of the charter school’s campus.
The new building features five state-of-the-art labs, along with five classrooms and administration space.
“The building will create new opportunities” for students, said DaSilva.
For fellow student Lucien Albota, a junior from Maynard,
There’s a new sign to accommodate the new academic building at the Advanced Math and Science Academy (AMSA) on Forest Street.
One of the new labs in AMSA’s new academic building. There are five labs total, along with five classrooms and administration space. (Photos/Maureen Sullivan)
the new building will be an “introduction to the love of intellectual exploration.”
“Behind these doors,
dreams will take shape,” said Lisa C. Mobley, executive director for AMSA. “This is a space where innovation will flourish.”
The ceremony kicked off AMSA’s 20th anniversary. Inside one of the new classrooms,
guests had a chance to vote for one of three special AMSA eagle anniversary designs, created by students.
“The new building will bring our school to another level,” said Principal Michael Nawrocki, who’s been part of AMSA since 2010. “It’s a more spacious environment, and teachers will have more tools to work with.”
On the second floor, guests got to create little paper helicopters, then checked their flight pattern using a specially designated “drop zone.” According to Christie Jagielski, chair of AMSA’s science department, the area will be used by physics students to measure certain experiments.
The classrooms will be used for testing and other activities, but won’t be in full use until the fall.
For more information, go to https://www.amsacs.org/
AMSA Executive Director Lisa C. Mobley, center, cuts the ribbon opening the school’s new academic building on Thursday, Jan. 23. Flanking her were Maura Webster, chair of the school’s board of trustees, and Mayor J. Christian Dumais.
Sawyer says Shrewsbury schools are ‘moving forward’ amid ‘headwinds’
By Evan Walsh Reporter
SHREWSBURY – In his annual
“State of the District” address to the School Committee on Jan. 22, Shrewsbury Public Schools Superintendent Joe Sawyer outlined the district’s strengths while also describing potential challenges it may face in the future.
“I think it’s important to know that our district is moving forward. There’s a lot of excellent work that’s happening across our schools that we should celebrate, but at the same time we definitely face headwinds,” said Sawyer.
“Many issues that we do face really have a duality to them; they’re both opportunities and challenges.”
When discussing the district’s strengths, Sawyer recognized Shrewsbury’s “tremendous” students and “highly skilled staff.” The district enjoys strong support from the community, he said, and has strengthened supports for student social, emotional, and behavioral health.
As far as headwinds go, Sawyer said students still face continued volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity that can make learning more difficult. Like other districts throughout the country, Shrewsbury continues to see post-pandemic learning gaps and more behavioral challenges among students.
It’s a two-way street for many issues — artificial intelligence can be an opportunity
for students to enhance learning, but, on the other hand, it can also be viewed as a challenge, potentially promoting academic dishonesty and cheating, said Sawyer.
The potential expansion of Shrewsbury High School is another opportunity, but managing the extreme overcrowding at the over-capacity school in the meantime is proving to be challenging.
“Thank you for the 30,000foot overview,” said School Committee Chair Jon Wensky. “We’re fortunate to have an outstanding staff who engage the students and, of course, a very generous community in Shrewsbury … I’ve always known Shrewsbury to be a destination for good schools.”
Search begins for new superintendent
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
MARLBOROUGH – The search for a new superintendent is under way.
The School Committee met on Wednesday, Jan. 22, to discuss the next steps to replace Superintendent Mary Murphy, who announced her retirement earlier this month.
Patricia Brown, director of human resources for Marlborough Public Schools, said the job has been posted, and applications were accepted until Monday, Jan. 27.
committee to Brown at HR@ mps-edu.org. Mayor J. Christian Dumais and the School Committee Vice Chair Michelle Bodin-Hettinger will review the parent requests to serve on the committee.
The teacher representative will be the president of the Marlborough Teachers Association, or a designee. Administrators who are interested in serving on the committee should contact Murphy.
Once established, the subcommittee will set up a schedule of meeting dates to help screen potential candidates.
Interested parents should send an email to express interest in serving on the search
Upon Brown’s suggestion, the committee set up a sixmember subcommittee to help with the search process. Members Dan Caruso, Kate Hennessy and Denise Ryan were chosen; other members will include a parent of an MPS student, and two members of the MPS staff (one teacher, one administrator).
The new superintendent will begin on July 1.
The next School Committee meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 28, at 7:30 p.m. in the School Committee Meeting Room, 17 Washington St.
10 th Brian Arsenault memorial game to be held Feb.1
NORTHBOROUGH – The 10th annual Brian Arsenault memorial game will be held at NorthStar Ice Sports on Feb. 1 at 7:30 p.m., when, in special camouflage uniforms, Algonquin boys hockey will take on Hopedale.
Brian Arsenault was a 2004 Algonquin graduate who played four years of varsity hockey for the school. On Sept. 4, 2014,
Arsenault was killed in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division in Ghazni, Afghanistan.
Leslie Arsenault, Brian’s mother, will be asking for a donation of socks or food pantry items.
Mary Murphy
Algonquin boys hockey is set to honor a fallen alum. (Photo/Evan Walsh)
Scan QR code to read this week’s police and fire news on our website.
Grafton resident dies in accident on Mass. Turnpike
GRAFTON – A Grafton resident was struck and killed on the Massachusetts Turnpike eastbound at mile marker 98, according to the Massachusetts State Police.
Around 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 22, troopers assigned to the Charlton Barracks responded to multiple reports of a pedestrian struck by a truck. Once on scene, troopers discovered the victim deceased and requested assistance from the State Police Collision Analysis & Reconstruction Section; the Crime Scene Services Section; the detective unit assigned to the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office; and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.
The victim has been identified as Jayson Bastarache, 36, of Grafton.
Though not immediately
clear why the victim entered the roadway, troopers discovered a bicycle on a nearby side street and footprints leading to the highway.
For the safety of motorists and investigators, officials
made one lane available for travel from mile marker 96-98, but all others remained closed until approximately 11 p.m. Grafton Fire Department assisted with Engine 2, the Rescue and Med Star vehicles.
Westborough Police seek scrap metal thieves
WESTBOROUGH – The Westborough Police Department is looking to identify and speak with the two individuals who stole 300 pounds of aluminum scrap from a local business on Sunday, Jan. 12.
If you recognize the vehicle or the occupants, please contact the Westborough Police Department Detective Bureau at 508-475-4800.
POLICE LOG
The information in the police log is obtained directly from the official records maintained at each police station in our circulation area. Those arrested are innocent until proven guilty. The Community Advocate will publish news of acquittals upon notification and a copy of court issued documentation. The below is a representation of this week’s police log. Some calls lacking severity have been omitted due to space constraints.
Marlborough
Tuesday, Jan. 14
6:46 p.m. Arrested, Gary R. Olson
Jr., 43, of 68 Hayden Rowe St., Hopkinton, on true warrants.
Thursday, Jan. 16
1:38 a.m. Arrested , Kingombe Ashema, 37, of 5 Robert Gonfrare
The Westborough Police Department is seeking two individuals who stole 300 pounds of aluminum scrap from a local business on Sunday, Jan. 12.
(Photo Courtesy of Westborough Police)
Way, Ashland, for unlicensed operation of MV, fail to stop/yield, MV operator refusing to identify self. Friday, Jan. 17
7:08 p.m. Arrested , Juan Jose Trejo Burgos, 31, of 52 Pleasant St., Apt. 1, Marlborough, on true warrant.
Monday, Jan. 20
3:58 p.m. Arrested, Glenn D. Morreale, 53, of 168 Lincoln St., Apt. 2, Worcester, for possess Class A drug, shoplifting by asportation 3rd offse., A&B.
7:05 p.m. Arrested , Julio Cesar Gomes De Souza, 49, of 111 Broadmeadow Rd., Apt. 2, Marlborough, on true warrant.
9:42 p.m. Arrested, Timothy James Williams, 37, of 139B Broadmeadow Rd., Apt. 7, Marlborough, on true warrant.
& run.
4:49 p.m. W Main St. Fraud.
5:55 p.m. W Main St. B&E in MV. Friday, Jan. 17
5:52 p.m. Otis St. Assault. Saturday, Jan. 18
4:54 p.m. Turnpike Rd. Road/tree.
5:57 p.m. Turnpike Rd. Threats made.
8:01 p.m. W Main St. Larceny. Sunday, Jan. 19
8:34 p.m. Oak St. Road/tree.
9:33 p.m. Oak St. Road/tree.
11:05 p.m. Arrested, Ulises Lopez Mendez, 30, of 135 E Main St., Apt. C1, Westborough, on warrant.
Northborough
Friday, Jan. 17
2:08 p.m. Church St. Scams.
10:38 p.m. Arrested , Fernando Perez Jr., 28, of 203 Green St., Clinton, for op MV with registration suspended, negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08%, possess open container of alcohol in MV, uninsured motor vehicle, unregistered motor vehicle.
Saturday, Jan. 18
2:19 p.m. Bartlett St. Accident: P.I. Tuesday, Jan. 21
2:11 a.m. Arrested, Kelsey Roland Deluca, 34, of 185 Sandcastle, Secaucus, NJ, for negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08%.
10:29 a.m. Shops Way. Shoplifting.
Wednesday, Jan. 22
2:57 p.m. South St. Breaking and entering.
10:39 p.m. Arrested, Andrea Beth Freitas, 45, homeless, Plymouth, on warrant.
Thursday, Jan. 23
1:41 p.m. Lyman St. Fraud.
6:20 p.m. Arrested , Coleen Mae Tardif, 54, of 464 River Rd., Hudson, for negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08%, possess open container of alcohol in MV, use electronic device while operating MV 1st offense.
Shrewsbury
Thursday, Jan. 16
3:38 p.m. Boston Tpke. Harassment.
Westborough
Monday, Jan. 13
9:54 a.m. E Main St. Road/tree.
11:26 a.m. Arrested , Melissa B. Leung, 64, of 5 Blake St., Apt. 1A, Westborough, on warrant.
4:21 p.m. E Main St. B&E in MV.
5:53 p.m. Mayberry Dr. B&E in MV.
9:28 p.m. Homestead Blvd. Accident – hit & run.
Tuesday, Jan. 14
3:16 p.m. Fisher St. Larceny.
Wednesday, Jan. 15
11:30 a.m. South St. Trespass Tow.
1:44 p.m. Turnpike Rd./E Main St. Road/tree.
4:44 p.m. Blossom Ct. Fraud.
5:59 p.m. Lyman St. Assault.
Thursday, Jan. 16
7:53 a.m. Milk St. Accident property damage.
9:42 a.m. Otis St. Accident – hit
4:28 p.m. Harrington Ave. Identity theft.
4:36 p.m. Audubon Dr. Road hazard – trees/wires/debris.
Friday, Jan. 17
9:29 a.m. Bumblebee Cir. Larceny.
1:13 p.m. Arrested, Joseph William Pendergast, 39, of 6 Caroline Dr., Bellingham, for operate MV with licensed revoked as HTO (criminal), possess Class A substance subsequent offense, possess Class B substance subsequent offense, marked lanes violation, fail to signal.
6:59 p.m. Stanley Rd. Assaults. Saturday, Jan. 18
9:39 a.m. Kings Point Dr. Larceny.
12:46 p.m. Holden St. Road hazard – trees/wires/debris.
Sunday, Jan. 19
2:38 a.m. South Quinsigamond. Road hazard – trees/wires/debris.
2:43 a.m. Cross St. B&E attempted.
2:48 a.m. Arrested , Daniel R. Shaughnessy, 26, of 73 Maury Ln., Shrewsbury, on warrant.
6:44 a.m. Hartford Tpke. Threats.
12:17 p.m. Old Mill Rd. Harassment. 5:17 p.m. Ridgeland Rd. Dispute. 5:51 p.m. Prospect St. Vandalism. 7:40 p.m. Holden St. Accident with injury.
8:11 a.m. Providence/Brigham Hill Rds. Road hazard.
1:49 p.m. Main St. Keeping the peace.
Wednesday, Jan. 8
6:27 a.m. Worcester St. Traffic hazard.
3:19 p.m. Worcester/N Main Sts. Traffic hazard.
5:41 p.m. Gordon Cir. Fraud/identity theft.
8:07 p.m. Waterville St. Fire – gas odor.
Thursday, Jan. 9
9:56 a.m. Arrested , Matthew J. Clark, 44, of 14 Worcester St., Grafton, on warrant of apprehension. 2:01 p.m. Providence Rd. Drug law violation.
2:44 p.m. Providence Rd. Drug law violation.
6:40 p.m. Arrested, Cameron Allen Mehigan, 18, of 124 Ferry St., South Grafton, for possess to distribute Class C drug, distribute Class C drug, conspiracy to violate drug law, and Connor A. Saltus, 18, of 155 Pleasant St., Grafton, for distribute Class C drug, possess to distribute Class C drug, conspiracy to violate drug law, possess to distribute Class D drug.
A Grafton resident was killed after being struck on the Mass. Pike. (Photo/Maureen Sullivan)
LEGAL NOTICES
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WESTBOROUGH
LEGAL NOTICE
TOWN OF WESTBOROUGH
OFFICE OF THE PLANNING BOARD
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
In accordance with the provisions of MGL c.40A, Section 5, the Westborough Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, February 25, 2025 at 6:30 P.M. regarding the two (2) proposed zoning amendments entitled “Amend Zoning Bylaw – Section 7.1, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU)” and “Amend Zoning Bylaw – Sections 5.3, 5.4 and Attachment 1 –Use Regulation Schedule”. The following Articles will appear on the Warrant for the March 22, 2025 Westborough Annual Town Meeting:
1. To see if Town will vote to amend the Westborough Zoning Bylaws by amending Section 7.1 - Accessory Dwelling Units to reflect the recent legislative changes as described in Chapter 150 of the Acts of 2024 and reflected in Chapter 40A of Massachusetts General Laws (MGL).
2. To see if the Town will vote to amend the Westborough Zoning Bylaws to make edits within Sections 5.3 and 5.4 and Attachment 1 – Use Regulation Schedule, of the Zoning Bylaw to reflect modifications to the dimensional and use requirements for the M-1 zoning district and other clarifications.
The public hearing will be held in the Great Hall of the Forbes Municipal Building, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA. Please see the Calendar on the Town of Westborough Homepage (posted 48 hours prior to the public hearing) for additional information. To access the proposal and any submitted documents, please go to our website at https://www.westboroughma.gov/1313/Town-Meeting-Zoning-Articles. Documents are also available for review in the Westborough Planning Board Office at 45 West Main St., Westborough, MA during regular business hours. Persons unable to attend may submit comments in writing to the Westborough Planning Board in advance of the public hearing or attend the public hearing as indicated above.
WESTBOROUGH PLANNING BOARD
Hazel Nourse, Chairperson
LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE OF INTENT
WESTBOROUGH, MA
In accordance with the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, MGL Chapter 131, Section 40, and the Westborough
Wetlands Protection Bylaw, the Conservation Commission will conduct a Public Hearing to be held on Tuesday, February 11, 2025 after 6:30 PM at the Forbes Municipal Building, 3rd Fl meeting room, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA, for a Notice of Intent for 42-48 Lackey St.; Lot
1 (Parcel ID: 2-9-0; Lot 1) filed by Chuck Lane for proposed construction of a single family house with associated paved driveway, septic system, utilities, grading, and stormwater infrastructure within jurisdictional resource areas.
LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE OF INTENT WESTBOROUGH, MA
In accordance with the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, MGL Chapter 131, Section 40, and the Westborough Wetlands Protection Bylaw, the Conservation Commission will conduct a Public Hearing to be held on Tuesday, February 11, 2025 after 6:30 PM at the Forbes Municipal Building, 3rd Fl meeting room, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA, for a Notice of Intent for 42-48 Lackey St.; Lot
2 (Parcel ID: 2-9-0; Lot 2) filed by Chuck Lane for proposed construction of a single family house with associated paved driveway, septic system, utilities, grading, and stormwater infrastructure within jurisdictional resource areas.
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 Ron Aspero. The owner of the property is Paul Carney. The work is located at 318 Brigham Street (MapParcel-Lot 72-14-8). The proposed project is construction of a house in Buffer Zone to Bordering Vegetated Wetlands. The Public Hearing will be held via remote video conference on February 13, 2025 at 7:00 pm. Please contact the Conservation Commission Office for information on joining the meeting: phelinek@townofhudson.org or 978-562-2948.
All interested parties are urged to attend. The application can be obtained through email by contacting the Conservation Commission Office.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Petition #ZSP-25-1
Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals on Thursday, February 13, at 7:00 p.m. Pursuant to Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023 extending the remote meeting provisions of March 12, 2020, Executive Order suspending certain provisions of the Open Meeting Law, this meeting of the Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals will be conducted via remote participation.
Specific information for remote participation will be included on the agenda.
At this time the Board of Appeals will hear the request of Douglas Maguire to obtain a Special Permit to alter a non-conforming structure (retaining wall) pursuant to Section 5.1.6.1 of the Hudson Zoning By-laws to reconstruct a retaining wall. The subject property is located at 28 Bennett Street, Assessors’ Map 20 Parcel 73 and is zoned R-15 Residential. The Board may consider any action deemed necessary relative to the subject petition.
All petition materials are available for review in the Town Clerk’s Office during regular business hours, on the Town of Hudson website at https://go.boarddocs. com/ma/hudsonma/Board.nsf/ goto?open&id=DCWSHM72C90E and can be requested by calling (978) 562-2989 or by sending an email to kjohnson@townofhudson.org.
Antonio Mancini, Jr., Clerk Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Petition #ZSP-25-3
Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals on Thursday, February 13, at 7:00 p.m. Pursuant to Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023 extending the remote meeting provisions of March 12, 2020, Executive Order suspending certain provisions of the Open Meeting Law, this meeting of the Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals will be conducted via remote participation. Specific information for remote participation will be included on the agenda.
At this time the Board of Appeals will hear the request of EHP Realty Corp. to obtain a Special Permit for the use of the premises at 538 Main Street for specialty car sales and service within the Watershed Protection District pursuant to Section 6.0 of the Town of Hudson Zoning By-laws. The subject property is zoned the IB Industrial, Assessors’ Map 34, Parcel 35. The Board may consider any action deemed necessary relative to the subject petition.
All petition materials are available for review in the Town Clerk’s Office during regular business hours, on the Town of Hudson website at https://go.boarddocs. com/ma/hudsonma/Board.nsf/ goto?open&id=DCYFCZ3E8C0C and can be requested by calling (978) 562-2989 or by sending an email to kjohnson@townofhudson.org.
Antonio Mancini, Jr., Clerk Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Petition #ZSP-25-2
Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals on Thursday, February 13, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. Pursuant to Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023 extending the remote meeting provisions of March 12, 2020, Execu-
tive Order suspending certain provisions of the Open Meeting Law, this meeting of the Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals will be conducted via remote participation. Specific information for remote participation will be included on the agenda.
At this time the Board of Appeals will hear the request of WYSK Properties LLC to obtain a Special Permit to alter a nonconforming structure pursuant to Section 5.1.6.1 of the Hudson Zoning By-laws to construct an exterior staircase leading to the second-floor apartment. The subject property is located at 7-11 Grove Street Assessors’ Map 30 Parcel 115 and is zoned R-15 Residential. The Board may consider any action deemed necessary relative to the subject petition.
All petition materials are available for review in the Town Clerk’s Office during regular business hours, on the Town of Hudson website at https://go.boarddocs. com/ma/hudsonma/Board.nsf/ goto?open&id=DCWSRZ74039B and can be requested by calling (978) 562-2989 or by sending an email to kjohnson@townofhudson.org.
Antonio Mancini, Jr., Clerk Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals
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. 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
to remove 5 trees that pose risk to residents and property. Work in and near wetlands.
Plans and other information will be available in the Conservation Commission office at City Hall Monday thru Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. All interested persons are invited to the public hearing.
Edward Clancy Conservation Commission Chairman
CONSERVATION COMMISSION NOTICE OF INTENT NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Notice is hereby given that the Marlborough Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on February 6, 2024, at 7:00 PM at Marlborough City Hall, 140 Main St. on the 3rd Floor Memorial Hall.
Marlborough Department of Public Works proposes to replace and relocate an existing inadequate concrete pipe drainage line in the Hildreth St./Cook Ln. area on sewer taking land. Work in and near wetlands.
Plans and other information will be available in the Conservation Commission office at City Hall Monday thru Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. All interested persons are invited to the public hearing.
Edward Clancy Conservation Commission Chairman REQUEST FOR DETERMINATION OF APPLICABILITY NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Notice is hereby given that the Marlborough Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on February 6, 2025, at 7:00 PM at Marlborough City Hall, 140 Main St. on the 3rd Floor Memorial Hall.
Adinson Bautista of 12 Red Spring Rd. proposes to relocate a shed on his property per an Enforcement Order. Work in and near wetlands.
Plans and other information will be available in the Conservation Commission office at City Hall Monday thru Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. All interested persons are invited to the public hearing.
Edward Clancy Conservation Commission Chairman
SHREWSBURY
LEGAL NOTICE
In accordance with the provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 40A, Section 5, the Shrewsbury Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday, March 6, 2025 at 7:00 PM in the Select Board Meeting Room, at the Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts regarding proposed amendments to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw, as follows:
ARTICLE
8:37 p.m. Magill Dr. Motor vehicle lockout.
Sunday, Jan. 12
9:45 a.m. (WO) Shrewsbury St. Larceny/theft.
4:48 p.m. Institute Rd./East St. Illegal dumping.
Monday, Jan. 13
6:08 p.m. Putnam Ln. Fraud/identity theft.
7:25 p.m. Brigham Hill Rd./Kay St. Traffic hazard.
Tuesday, Jan. 14
7:13 a.m. Upton St. Accident – personal injury.
9:59 a.m. Stoneybrook Rd. B&E
into MV.
3:21 p.m. Ferry St. Abandoned auto.
4:45 p.m. Aspen Ave. Keeping the peace.
10:16 p.m. Worcester St. Larceny/ theft.
Wednesday, Jan. 15
5:53 p.m. Stoneybrook Rd. B&E – past.
Thursday, Jan. 16
2:17 p.m. N Brigham Hill Rd. Scam/ attempted scam.
3:31 p.m. Worcester St. Larceny/ theft.
8:30 p.m. Pine St. Fire – flooding.
Friday, Jan. 17
2:59 p.m. Deernolm St. Larceny/ theft.
6:27 p.m. (NO) Highland St. Accident – personal injury.
Saturday, Jan. 18
4:29 a.m. Providence Rd. Annoying phone calls.
12:19 p.m. Providence Rd. Harassment.
Sunday, Jan. 19
9:49 a.m. Upton St. Accident – personal injury.
12:17 p.m. Fairlawn St. Fire – gas odor.
1:58 p.m. Zgonis Dr. Scam/attempted scam.
3:08 p.m. Depot St. Fire – structure.
4:59 p.m. Murray Ave. Fire – gas odor.
Monday, Jan. 20
5:59 p.m. High St. Traffic hazard.
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.
Publication Friday January 17, 24 and 31, 2024 Community Advocate.
MARLBOROUGH
To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning Bylaw of the Town of Shrewsbury, Section II Definitions, Section VII.U.7 (Accessory Dwelling Units) and Section VII.Y (Accessory Dwelling Units) these changes propose to move the existing Accessory Dwelling Units provisions into a new section with amendments to align with Chapter 150 of the Acts of 2024 (see Sections 7 and 8 of the Act) or to take any other action in relation thereto.
The complete text, where applicable, may be seen during regular business hours in the Office of the Planning and Economic Development Department, the Office of the Town Clerk at the Municipal Office Building at 100 Maple Avenue and the Shrewsbury Public Library at 609 Main Street.
SHREWSBURY PLANNING BOARD
Julie Holstrom, Chair
Stephan M. Rodolakis, Vice Chair
Timothy Fitzgerald, Clerk Purnachander Rao Konstantin Eliadi
COMMUNITY CLASSIFIED
Warrant includes library repair project and reserve account for special education
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – Requests to establish a special education reserve account and an enterprise fund for waste management will be among the articles on the warrant during Town Meeting in March.
The Select Board got a first look at the warrant during its meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 14.
The special education re -
serve account is being requested by Westborough Public Schools to cover unanticipated costs like transportation and out-ofdistrict placements.
“Special education tuition and transportation are some of the most unpredictable parts of a school budget because we do not know whether the number of students with complex needs will go up or down in a given year,” said WPS Superintendent Allison Borchers.
According to Borchers, many other school districts have created this type of a reserve account as a way to set aside funds to pay for unanticipated costs for special education. The balance cannot exceed 2% of the annual net school spending of the school district.
“Instead of trying to account for all possible changes that might necessitate additional tuition or transportation costs, the district can budget
COMMUNITY CLASSIFIEDS
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for changes that are probable and avoid potentially unnecessary inflation of the operating budget,” she said.
The fund can be created through a majority vote by the School Committee and Town Meeting.
Once the reserve fund is established, Borchers said, “The district needs a majority approval vote from both the school committee and the select board in order to access funds. Money can only be added to the account with a vote at Town Meeting.”
Funding could come from Medicaid reimbursement money that school districts obtain through the provision of services such as speech therapy, she said, adding that other possible sources could be designated.
In 2022, WPS had to go before Town Meeting to obtain additional funds to pay for a higher-than-expected number of out-of-district placements.
As part of her presentation, Town Manager Kristi Williams also discussed the possible creation of an enterprise fund to cover waste management expenses. A portion of the revenue would come from the sale of Pay As You Throw (PAYT) permits and bags.
“While it is not anticipated that the revenue will fund the entire budget, the creation of
this fund will allow the town to use the revenue as a direct funding source for landfill expenses,” said Williams in her 2026 fiscal year budget message to the town.
Those expenses include paying for three part-time PAYT coordinators.
Also in the warrant — a funding request for the Westborough Public Library repair project. According to Sean Keogh, the board’s representative on the Library Building Committee, bids for the project should be in the committee’s hands on Feb. 19. That will give the committee time to provide a final financial number for the warrant article.
The project is currently estimated between $13 million and $14 million.
The warrant will also include requests to help subsidize Westborough TV, which is losing revenue because of fewer cable subscribers; and to replace the heating, ventilation and air conditioning rooftop units at the Community Center. According to Williams, there are currently 24 articles in the warrant, which will close at the second Select Board meeting in February.
The Annual Town Meeting will convene on Saturday, March 22, at 9 a.m. in the high school auditorium.
BJ’s Wholesale Club, Inc. seeks SAP Basis Application Development Analyst in Marlborough, MA
Research, install, configure & upgrade SAP applications. Master’s degree plus 2 yrs. exp. as a Software Developer or related.
Qualified Applicants contact Chris Rouleau, Sr. Recruiter, and reference position crouleau@bjs.com, 350 Campus Drive, Marlborough, MA 01752 Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.
Older Tufts Grad Seeks Immediate Housing. Room or apartment. Please call Jeff at 508-768-7486
WASA cancels Ice Out Challenge
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – There will be no Ice Out Challenge in front of Hastings Elementary School this year.
The Westborough Athletic and Social Association (WASA), which has sponsored the event for several years, decided not to hold the event.
“With the cost of the sculpture at $1,800, the fundraiser got too expensive for us to
continue,” said Mark Higgins of WASA.
WASA conducts several events during the year, including a meat raffle every other Friday, the golf tournament in August, the turkey shoot in November and the ski swap in December.
Funds raised helps WASA provide scholarships for high school seniors entering college.
For information, visit https://www.westboro.org/
Volunteers needed for focus groups
SOUTHBOROUGH – Southborough Youth and Family Services is seeking volunteers to take part in focus groups for the Community Needs Survey.
Eight to 10 residents are needed for each group. These groups will be meeting for
one hour, either in-person or online. Information gathered will be used to develop town programs and services.
If interested, call 508-4815676, or visit www.southboroughma.gov/197/YouthFamily-Services
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
Bellerose, Joyce of Shrewsbury Belmore, Shirley of Marlborough Brady, Mary formerly of Shrewsbury Caron, Simone of Westborough Castelda, Jeannette of Southborough Donahue, Velma of Grafton, formerly of Marlborough Donovan Sr., Daniel of Shrewsbury Fashjian, John formerly of Shrewsbury
Gagnon, Gerard of Westborough Greene, Janice of Hudson Lekstrom, Barbara of Westborough Lemay, Joanne of Shrewsbury Lord, Brenda of Westborough Loiseau, Paul of Shrewsbury Moran, Catherine of Hudson Paille, Debbra of North Grafton
Resendes, Jose former longtime resident of Hudson Richer, Kathleen formerly of Southborough Rudman, David of Shrewsbury Saba, Francis of Shrewsbury Samra, Raymond of Marlborough, formerly of Hudson Serra Jr., Robert for Grafton Stines, Claire of Grafton Toohey, Joan of Marlborough Vagnini, Bruna of Southborough
Kathleen A. Richer, 83
JACKSONVILLE, FL – Kathleen “Kathy” Alice (Quinn) Richer, 83, of Jacksonville Florida, widow of William “Bill” Richer, died January 17, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. Born November 4, 1941, Kathy spent her early life in Enfield, CT before moving with Bill to Southborough, MA to raise a family. Kathy and Bill, her partner of 53 years, met at a school dance where Kathy described
being drawn in by his smile. They married in 1964 in Enfield and together they traveled extensively in the US; visiting numerous national parks, they also enjoyed trips to Canada and France.
She worked for over 25 years at Digital Equipment Corporation where she started as a typist and grew with the company to lead a department dedicated to technical writing.
Kathy left Digital to join Tufts where she worked as a systems administrator and retired in 2008 to Jacksonville, FL. In Jacksonville, Kathy and Bill enjoyed walking on the beach and frequent trips to the Jacksonville Symphony.
Kathy and Bill had one son, Brian, who joined Kathy in Jacksonville after Bill’s passing in 2018. She loved animals and always had a pet in the family and took time every morning to feed the birds.
Kathy is predeceased by her parents, Francis “Frank” and Doris Quinn, and her husband, Bill. She is survived by her son, Brian Richer and her sister, Barbara Hefner.
Visitation on Friday, January 24, 2025 at Leete-Stevens Enfield Chapels of Enfield, CT, followed by a Funeral Home Service. Burial followed in the Enfield Street Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Jacksonville Symphony Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts, 300 Water Street, Suite 200, Jacksonville, FL 32202.
Francis M. Saba, 75
SHREWSBURY – Francis “Frank” M. Saba loved to share his definition for the meaning of life. For him, everything that matters fell into one of three buckets — dreams, relationships, and memories. Who can say if he cracked the code, but, undoubtedly, Frank led a life that he loved which was filled with dreams (mostly for his family and his beloved University of Michigan football team), loving relationships, and memories that will endure long beyond him.
In addition to his wife of 46 years, Wendy, Frank leaves his daughters, Sara Saba-Sher (Lee
Sher) of Wakefield, Jennifer Saba (Ben Rubach) of Chicago, Illinois, and Katherin Brewer (Dave) of Quincy; his grandchildren, Webster and Tate Sher, Frankie Rubach, and Bailey Brewer; his siblings, Denise Wood (late Anthony) of Arlington, Paul Saba of Newburyport, and Peter Saba (Jean) of Scituate; nieces and nephews, Peter Wood (Nina) and Julie Wood, and Paul and Owen Saba; and many cousins he deeply loved.
Family and friends will honor and remember Frank by gathering on Saturday, February 1, 2025, in Saint Mary’s Church, 640 Main Street, Shrewsbury, for a funeral Mass to be celebrated at 11 a.m. A Life Celebration will follow at Cyprian Keyes Golf Club, 284 E. Temple Street, Boylston, at 12:30 p.m. All are welcome. “Go Blue!”
Jeanette Castelda, 85
SOUTHBOROUGH – Jeanette Castelda, 85, passed away peacefully on January 18, 2025. She was born on March 20, 1939, in Utica, NY. Jean was a devoted wife to her late husband, Richard Castelda, and a loving mother to her daughters, Kim and Tracy.
Jean leaves behind her daughters Kim Castelda and husband Mark Kelleher; Tracy and her late husband, Mahesh Sheth. Her grandchildren that knew her as Sito - Maryeliz and Zach Point, Devan Sheth, Julianne Kelleher, Alex Kelleher, and Derek Sheth - were the center of her universe, and she cherished every moment spent with them. As well as her nieces and nephews Jacquline and John Collins, Kellie and John Dodge, John and Danyse Collins, and Christine LaBuzzetta.
The Morris-Johnston Funeral Home of Southborough assisted with arrangements.
Velma Donahue, 85
GRAFTON – Velma “Val” Marie (Andrade) Donahue, 85, of Grafton, MA, formerly of Marlborough, MA died on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at UMASS Memorial Health Care, University Campus in Worcester, MA after a brief
Scan QR code to read all of this week’s obituaries on our website.
Illness.
Val leaves her children Paul F. Donahue Jr. and his wife Caigui Guo Donahue of Barre, MA, Laura Everitt of Barre, MA, Scott Donahue and his wife Kelly of Whitinsville, MA, and Derek Donahue and his wife Nadine of Dudley, MA. She is also survived by her sisters Inez ”Enie” Clemmer of Northborough, MA, Gypsy McGrath of Berlin, MA, Jean Powell (Spouse Paul Powell) of Worcester, MA, and her many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. She was predeceased by her siblings Elaine (Andrade) Petkauskos, Arthur Andrade, Barbra (Andrade) Guerard and Joseph B. Andrade, Jr. Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted with arrangements.
Joyce J. Bellerose, 84
SHREWSBURY – Joyce J. (Lindquist) Bellerose, 84, longtime Shrewsbury resident, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 17, 2025 at Christopher House of Worcester, with her loving family by her side. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Leonard C. Bellerose, who passed in 2018. She leaves her cherished sister, Phyllis J. DeNitti; several nieces and nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews; and many wonderful friends. Joyce was predeceased by her siblings, Philip Lindquist, Virginia Samra, and her twin sister, June McMahon.
The Britton-Shrewsbury Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
Jose F. Resendes, 73
HYANNIS – Jose F. Resendes of Hyannis MA, former longtime resident of Hudson MA, passed away at home surrounded by his loving family on Thursday
January 16, 2025. He leaves his wife of 48 years Maria Natalia (Monteiro) Resendes
of Hyannis, MA.
Besides his wife, Jose is survived by his two daughters; Amy Sarmiento and her husband Alex, of West Boylston, MA, Christine Perna and her husband Andrew of West Boylston, MA; his four grandchildren, Vincent Sarmiento, Dante Sarmiento, Austin Perna, Bryce Perna and his sister Maria Fatima Silveira and her husband Luis of Taunton, MA. He also leaves his nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
The Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted with arrangements.
Debbra A. Paille, 68
NORTH GRAFTON/WORCESTER – Debbra A. (Thibeault) Paille, 68, passed away January 14, 2025 following complications from Pancreatic Cancer at Lutheran Nursing and Rehabilitation in Worcester.
She leaves her son Daniel Paille, siblings Normand Thibeault, Jr. and his partner Joseph Keyes, Sharon Douglas and her husband Robert, Kevin Thibeault and his wife Heather and Melissa Thibeault Durgin, her stepsister Donna Godzik and her husband Greg, her stepbrother Paul Bogdanowicz and his wife Renee and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her sister Charlene Thibeault.
Roney Funeral Home of North Grafton assisted with arrangements.
Joanne L. Lemay, 78
SHREWSBURY – Joanne L. (Carlson) Wahlgren Lemay, 78, was called home peacefully on January 15, 2025 with her daughter Lisa Marie, her son-inlaw Dan and her daughter, Michelle and her beloved fur grandbaby Rogue by her side. She is survived by her daughter Lisa-Marie and her husband Dan Delude, of Chaplin,CT, her granddaughter Deja Owens of Missouri, her grandson Blaine Jacob of Alabama and her 4 great-
grandchildren Aiden, Taislee, Chase and Jeremiah. She also leaves her dear friend Gail Progin who was really chosen family to Joanne.
She was predeceased by her sons Jonathan and Shawn Wahlgren, her husband Robert E. Lemay, her twin brother Raymond R. Carlson.
Funeral arrangements were under the care of Roney Funeral Home in North Grafton.
Brenda E. Lord, 56
WESTBOROUGH – Brenda E. (Lyle) Lord, 56, of Westborough passed away on Wednesday, January 15, following a fierce and graceful 3-year battle with glioblastoma.
Brenda is survived by H. Richard Lord, her high school sweetheart and loving husband of 34 years, and their three children, Bridget Lord and Maielise Lord both of Westborough and Audrey Van Heest and her husband Jack of Boston. The daughter of Dr. Jerry and Marilyn (Mayhew) Lyle of Westborough, Brenda is also survived by brother, Stephen Lyle and his wife, Cindy, of Weymouth; her parents-inlaw, Dick and Paula Lord of Coweta, OK, as well as sisterin-law, Kara Lord and two nephews, Reilly P. Piersimoni and Hunzeker J. Piersimoni.
The Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
Claire A. Stines, 95
GRAFTON – In the late evening hours of Thursday, January 16, 2025, Claire A. Stines peacefully closed her eyes to this life and opened them again in the presence of her Lord and Savior. She was a devote Catholic who exemplified her faith daily throughout her 95 year life.
was preceded in death by two sisters, Florence Vaudreuil and Lorraine Anderson. Hays Funeral Home of Northborough assisted with arrangements.
Paul Loiseau, 81
SHREWSBURY – Paul “Pudgy” Loiseau, 81, a lifelong, Shrewsbury resident and former local business owner, passed away at home, Friday, January 17, 2025, with the family he loved gathered at his bedside. He is survived by “the love of his life” and wife of 35 years, Denise (Brink) Loiseau; two children his was so proud of, Shawn Loiseau and his wife Sanlay of Shrewsbury, Cheyanne Loiseau and her husband, Cody Madore of Charlton; a brother, George “GiGi” Loiseau, Jr of Worcester; sister in law, Patricia Loiseau; five grandchildren he adored, Jaxon, Isabella, Izaiah, Ryder and Maverick; many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. A brother, John A. “Jack” Loiseau and two sisters, Donna Mancini and Doreen Borci also predeceased him. The Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel of Worcester assisted with arrangements.
Barbara J. Lekstrom, 73
WESTBOROUGH – On January 16, 2025, Barbara Joan Lekstrom died at age 74 in Westborough, MA. Beloved sister of Judith (Lekstrom) LaDrew, and the late Cecile Lekstrom and Leonard Lekstrom Jr. Barbara was born in Cambridge, MA and lived most of her life in Marlborough, MA. Her late parents were Leonard and Jessie (“Scottie”) Lekstrom, also of Marlborough. A burial will be held at a later date. The Short & Rowe Funeral is assisting with arrangements.
Mary P. Brady, 85
Surviving Claire is her daughter, Dianne Tarka of N. Grafton; two grandsons Michael Tarka and his wife Jennifer of Millbury and Scott Tarka and his wife Melanie of Natick; five great-grandchildren Abby, Lily, Ella, Jake and Grace Tarka; a sister Frances Gibree of Florida and numerous nieces and nephews. She
who predeceased her in 2022. Mary is survived by her three daughters: Doreen Brady and her husband Theodoros Moisiadis, Brenda Alcorn and her husband Don, and Monica Derico and her husband Francisco. She is also survived by three grandchildren: Parthena Moisiadis and her husband Alexander Fetterman, Panagiotis Moisiadis, and Emma Alcorn. The Chiampa Funeral Home of Shrewsbury assisted with arrangements.
Raymond T. Samra, 93
MARLBOROUGH – Raymond T. Samra, 93, of Marlborough, formerly of Hudson, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 19, 2025, at Rose Monahan Hospice Home. Previously Ray lived in Framingham for 45 years.
He leaves his daughter Deborah Flint and her husband Charlie of Onset, MA and Sorento, FL; Raeanne Bancroft and her husband, Philip, of Marlborough, MA; Christine Miller and her husband Bruce of Hudson, MA; Carol Bradley and her husband Jerry of Framingham, MA; his grandchildren Adam Miller and his wife Kim of Wolcott, VT; Ashley Conley and her husband Adam of Berlin, MA; Matthew Bradley, his fiance Rebecca Cadmus, and Jessica Bradley, of Framingham; his four great-grandsons Cameron, Brody, Owen, and Beckett Conley, as well as many nephews, nieces, and cousins. He also leaves his sister-in-law, Maureen Samra of Worcester, MA. His beloved wife, Virginia Samra, and brothers, George Samra, Jr. of West Palm Beach, FL, and Roy Samra of Worcester, MA predeceased him.
Funeral arrangements were under the care of Philip G. Haddad, Jr. of Miles Funeral Home in Holden.
David W. Rudman, 72
NORTH CHELMSFORD –Mary P. (Manning) Brady, 85, of North Chelmsford, formerly of Shrewsbury, passed away unexpectedly on January 17, 2025. For over 58 years, she was the loving wife of Eugene J. Brady,
W. Rudman and his wife Angela, and Jennifer L. (Rudman) Daby and her husband Jonathan, and cherished grandfather of Liliana Rudman, all of Worcester.
In addition to his heartbroken wife, children, and granddaughter, he leaves behind his sister Wendy Fontaine of Westborough, MA, his aunt Paula Shank and her partner Noel Lavallee of Wales, MA, his sister in law Christine Woodward and her partner Bob Zabinskas, a nephew Wayne, and nieces Kristy, Jamie Lynn and her husband Alex, Erica and her husband Carlos, Hannah, and Rachel and her partner Billy as well as several great nieces and nephews that will all miss him dearly.
He is predeceased by his parents, Herbert P. and Jean L. (Wainwright) Rudman, his brother Steven, and his in-laws Beverly and Albin Tribandis.
Miles Funeral Home of Holden assisted with arrangements.
Catherine A. Moran, 72
HUDSON – Catherine A. (Buckley) Moran of Hudson MA formerly of Watertown MA passed away a UMass Memorial Medical Center, University Campus in Worcester MA on Monday, January 20, 2025. Catherine leaves her loving husband of 45 years James E. “Jim” Moran of Hudson, MA.
Besides her husband, Catherine is survived by her son Patrick Moran of Hudson MA and her daughter Colleen Moran of Hudson MA. She was predeceased by her late brother Timothy Buckley of Watertown MA & Deerfield Beach, FL as well as her infant children Michael and Mary who died at birth.
The Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted with arrangements.
John G. Fashjian, 84
SHREWSBURY – David W. Rudman, 72, of Shrewsbury, passed away peacefully in his home with his wife by his side on January 17, 2025, from natural causes.
He was the loving husband of Linda J. (Tribandis) Rudman, beloved father of Jason
kis “Mike” and Roxie (Ashjian) Fashjian and husband of Michele (Abladian) Fashjian for 58 years.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by two children, Kristina Greene and her husband Dan of Westford, and Michael Fashjian and his wife Jackie of Shrewsbury, five grandchildren, Caitlin, Samantha, and Michael Greene, and Millaina and Hayley Fashjian, and one sister, Marie Damon of Holden. Matarese Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Inc. of Framingham assisted with arrangements.
Daniel J. Donovan Sr., 78
SHREWSBURY – It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Daniel J. Donovan, Sr. of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts on January 20, 2025, at the age of 78 years. Dan was born on March 24, 1946, to Mildred Kennedy Donovan and John Vincent Donovan.
Dan is survived by his loving wife, Patti Foley Donovan; his sons, Daniel Donovan Jr. (Tama), and Brian Donovan (Corinne); his daughter, Mariah Carter (Jed); his stepson, Ryan Foley; his grandsons, Ned, Eliot, Declan, and Rohan; his sister, Patricia; and his brothers, Jack and Mike. He was predeceased by his late wife, Carol Anne.
Known affectionately as “Sergeant Danno,” Dan lived a life filled with love, joy, and service. His The Britton-Shrewsbury Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
Robert J. Serra Jr., 73
GRAFTON – Robert J. Serra Jr., 73, passed away at home after an illness January 20, 2025. Bob was born in Worcester January 20, 1952. His roots were in Grafton and Upton but he spent most of his life in Grafton.
FRAMINGHAM – John George Fashjian, 84 of Framingham, formerly of Shrewsbury, passed away Tue. Jan. 21st at his home with his family by his side. Born in Worcester, he was the son of the late Sar-
He is survived by his mother Elizabeth (Monopoli) Serra, his siblings Edward Serra and his wife Terese, Betty Ann Brezniak and her partner Stephen Bertulli, John Serra and his wife Joan, his nieces Maggie Serra and Jennifer and Melanie Brezniak. He was predeceased by his father Robert Serra, Sr. Roney Funeral Home of North Grafton assisted with arrangements.
AMSA girls basketball takes charge in win over Worcester Tech COMMUNITY SPORTS
By Evan Walsh Reporter
MARLBOROUGH – Before
Advanced Math and Science Academy (AMSA) girls basketball could worry about winning, the players were concerned about whether they’d be able to field a team.
After graduating a large senior class, there weren’t many familiar faces on this Eagles squad.
“We had to reach out to the community and be like, ‘Please play,’” said captain Riley Whittier, one of three seniors on the team. “We didn’t have a lot of players.”
To fill out the roster, the Eagles pulled players from the JV team, and two players in Whittier’s grade joined the group “just for fun.” The team’s starting point guard is a seventh-grade student, and every one of the group’s coaches is also in their first year with
WESTBOROUGH – Sever’s Disease, a common cause of heel pain in kids, is not truly a disease but a growing pain affecting active children aged 8 to 15. It occurs when the heel bone grows faster than surrounding muscles and tendons, creating tightness and pulling at the heel’s growth plate.
Young athletes often experience this due to repetitive stress from activities like running or jumping. Symp-
But while it’s safe to say AMSA’s program has experienced some change in recent months, one thing that’s remained remarkably consistent is the team’s winning culture. On Jan. 24, the Eagles defeated visiting Worcester Tech, 48-29, to move to 9-2 on the season and continue an excellent stretch that extends back to 2021.
heel pain: what to know
toms include heel pain, swelling, and limping, especially after sports like soccer or basketball.
Steps to Relief Fortunately, Sever’s Disease usually resolves on its own as growth slows. Rest, ice, and well-�itted, cushioned shoes can help relieve symptoms. For persistent pain, at Central Massachusetts Podiatry, we may recommend
or
reduce
heel pain early ensures proper care. With simple interventions, young athletes can return to their favorite activities pain-free. If you have a kid with foot pain, call (508) 757-4003 for an appointment in Westborough or Worcester.
You know what they say — the more things change, the more things stay the same.
“It’s an attitude that we can overcome anything. We don’t let people get down. It’s about the next play, and if we make a mistake, we learn from it. I think our captains lead by example,” said Head Coach Joe Ciolino. “As far as body language — we strive to have positive body language. We want them to be a good teammate, share the ball. It’s not just about the stat sheet, it’s about making the right play.”
Whittier led the way against Worcester Tech, scoring 18 points despite playing limited minutes in the fourth quarter. Kathleen Galvin, the team’s second captain, added 12 points, and helped the Eagles pull ahead 25-9 by the halfway point.
“I feel like we had a lot of
good ball movement, good communication. This was a good opportunity for our bench players to come out, run the sets, and get some minutes. It was fun,” said Galvin, a junior from Hudson.
Aside from Galvin and Whittier, the Eagles enjoyed a steady stream of points from Brooke Laudate, Celeste Meredith, Jill Benoit, and Leila Brooks, the seventh-grade standout. The team scored only one 3-pointer, but was dominant from inside the paint.
When asked about how this “brand-new” team has morphed into a winning bunch, coaches and players alike were clear — though the group comes from different towns, grades, and backgrounds, it nonetheless managed to develop camaraderie. These Eagles are birds of a feather.
“I’d attribute it to team chemistry. We’re all pretty good friends, we’re a range of ages — we’ve got a seventhgrade starting point guard, and I’m a senior. We’re pretty different age- and maturity-wise, but I think everyone gets along very well, and that works on and off the court. We support each other, we pick each other up,” said Whittier.
Kathleen Galvin backs into the defender.
Riley Whittier fights through contact while driving to the basket.
Brooke Laudate puts up a shot. (Photos/Evan Walsh)
Leadership? Talent? Youth? Grafton
By Evan Walsh Reporter
GRAFTON – Maybe it was the Chick-fil-A.
After the season’s first scrimmage, Grafton girls basketball headed right to the fast-casual joint for some food and team bonding. Over chicken, the team began to develop camaraderie, which has endured throughout the season.
“The team really gets along great. The seniors have set up Secret Santas, they have pasta dinners. They went to Chickfil-A after the first scrimmage — I was looking for my invite,” said first-year head coach Tim Kewriga. “The one thing I notice is that they’re always together.”
“I think team chemistry starts with developing a friendship first,” said senior Sophia Hakulin.
The team’s leadership starts at the top, according to Kewriga, namely from Hakulin and fellow senior co-captain Leah Quilty. With Kewriga’s introduction to the program — and a
late Thanksgiving that allowed for only eight practices before regular-season action — the duo was instrumental in getting the Gators ready to take the court.
“Even before I got going with things, they were doing things behind-the-scenes to get people ready. They ran captains’ practices every Monday and Wednesday for months. They got everybody ready. I didn’t know the lay of the land, and they showed me the ropes,” said Kewriga.
Hakulin and Quilty have also taken on the role of shepherd-
ing this young Grafton team, which includes six sophomores and three freshmen. As the only upperclassmen on the roster, the captains have taken the team’s younger players under their wing.
“After every practice, Leah and Sophia always have something to say — it’s great, it’s constructive criticism,” said Abbey Lazeren, a sophomore who plays forward and center. “We all just kind of came together as one — it’s been a really good team dynamic.”
“We’re just encouraging them. They’re very talented
The Grafton girls basketball team posed for a photo before its game against Millbury on Jan. 20. (Photo/ Evan Walsh)
already, and we’re trying to support them mentally. We’re encouraging them to keep going and not give up, because they already have the skillset to do what they can do,” said Quilty. “We’re always open to helping them.”
The majority of the team’s production comes from its cadre of underclassmen, including Kaycee Sullivan, Evie Le, Elena Kuras, and Avery Carmichael. The players will certainly develop their game in the coming years, but, according to Kewriga, the group has something important that can’t be taught
— a strong work ethic.
Two underclassmen are already making bids for the record books — Lazeren and standout freshman Addie McGrath. Both players are toward the top of the South Worcester County League (SWCL) in scoring.
“Abbey is a non-stop worker. She goes full, absolute, nonstop on offense and defense. The effort is there — every second. Addie — there’s been an adjustment to the quickness and speed, and she’s so ready to figure it out,” said Kewriga.
“They’re both very humble about it. They both know they can always be better,” he added.
Having dominated the middle-school ranks, transitioning to high-school play can be highpressure, both Lazeren and McGrath admitted. Still, they’ve made the jump look easy.
“Coming from middle school to high school, it’s a big step. But, working with the team and having confidence in yourself — it’s a big factor in helping improve your game,” said McGrath.
