SHREWSBURY – After clearing yet another major hurdle, only a townwide vote stands in the way of significant upgrades to the town’s Department of Public Works (DPW) facilities located at 207-211 South Street. On April 14, Town Meeting approved Article 1, officially endorsing the project.
Northborough resident runs Boston Marathon six years after breast cancer
Westborough begins to prepare for Memorial Day
Hometown Heroes banners, which may be seen on poles through the center of town, honor Westborough’s veterans, living and
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – The Veterans Advisory Board is getting ready for Memorial Day with the installation of the Hometown Heroes banners in the center of town. The banners, which honor the town’s veterans, were hung last week
If approved by voters on May 6, the project would raze the 1950s-era Water and Sewer Garage, which is no longer suitable for use, town leaders say. The project would renovate the Town Meeting | 8 Memorial Day | 12
By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter
NORTHBOROUGH – In October of 2017, Smriti Choudhury was 26-years-old with a thriving career as an attorney and was in the midst of planning her wedding.
Then, she was diagnosed with breast cancer.
“I just fell apart,” said Choudhury, of Northborough.
“It’s a disease that can just come out of nowhere, and you try to pinpoint in your life, okay, is it my diet? Is it things that I’m exposed to? Is it certain materials or the environment?” she said. “But I’ve learned that I can’t live that way.”
Now, she’s six years cancer free and running her first official marathon
with the Ellie Fund, a Needham-based organization that provides “essential support services for breast cancer patients to ease the stresses of everyday life.” The services include grocery gift cards, transportation to medical appointments, childcare reimbursement, and more.
For the Massachusetts native, taking on the Boston Marathon is a dream come true.
“I’ve always been a spectator for so many years, so I’m excited to be on the other side as a runner,” Choudhury said.
Through her diagnosis, surgery, recovery, and finding her new normal, Choudhury’s road to Boston has been one lined with love, grief, and courage. For her, destiny led her to 26.2 miles.
Smriti Choudhury is running this year’s Boston Marathon. (Photo/Smriti Choudhury)
dead. (Photo/Maureen Sullivan)
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Dear Editor,
As a concerned 30 year resident of Shrewsbury, I support responsible growth and affordable housing, but not overdeveloping! Recently I witnessed numerous apartment buildings and giant industrial warehouses approved by our planning board. All of this building will have a huge negative impact on our schools, roads, traffic, and our entire infrastructure (fire, water, sewer, police, etc). How will we sustain all of this rapid growth? Who will pay for increased road repairs, bigger schools, more teachers, more police, more fire fighters (etc.)? The taxpayers!
When our local boards recommended we pass zoning for 1500 multi-family dense housing units, I decided it was time to take action. I stood with other concerned citizens as we collected almost 1800 signatures for a referendum to invoke a town wide vote. After speaking to hundreds of residents, it became painfully clear that the vast majority
were concerned about overdevelopment with little emphasis on affordability. Although 61% of Shrewsbury residents at the special election voted it down, we were unsuccessful due to an outdated bylaw that requires at least 20% voter turnout. Instead of reevaluating, our select board moved forward without skipping a beat, ignoring the voices of the majority.
We need new leadership in Shrewsbury! Our leaders are elected/appointed to represent the residents for the good of our community. When they stop listening to the people, it’s time for a change. Our current leaders seem to be more concerned with lining the pockets of big developers than standing up and fighting for us. Many of them also have multiple seats of power within one family, which limits diversity of thought.
I will be voting for Gregg Richards for select board. He is rational, intelligent, transparent, and a strong voice for the residents, not the developers and bureaucrats. He will en-
courage open public dialogue, and address our concerns. Visit www.greggrichards.org to learn more, and VOTE on May 6th!
Sincerely, Jackie Fashjian Shrewsbury
On Saturday, April 5th 40 members of the Westborough Community and the Forbes family came together to read aloud the YA novel “Johnny Tremain” by Esther Forbes, hosted by the Westborough Historical Society. People of ages ranging from 15 to 85, men and women, and people who have lived in Westborough for many years or have just moved here volunteered to cold read on live TV — something not easy to do. This piece of Westborough history has now been preserved by Westborough TV. Thank you to our readers, to Westborough TV and the Westborough Town Hall. Thanks also to everyone who assisted behind the scenes. I think Esther Forbes would
be proud! The Westborough Historical Society invites you to our Open House on Sunday, May 18th from 2-4. Come see our collection of Westborough treasures from years past. Susan Lippitt Westborough
I strongly support Michelle Conlin for re-election to the Shrewsbury Select Board. She has been an active advocate for the schools, for more accessible town government, and for planning ahead. Her natural inclinations are future-oriented, as anyone who spends time with children must be. She also looks at the other end of the age spectrum to consider the needs of older people looking for a safe and secure life. She gets out of the office vigorously, hiking and camping. This is an expression of her concern for the outdoors and for land use that provides considerable benefit for the town. Michelle has an informed interest in water resources and watershed man-
agement that not many people are aware of, but can benefit a town like ours, reliant on our own water supply. Finally, she is our delegate to the Central Mass Regional Planning Commission. Few people are aware of this remarkable organization, providing expertise in a variety of areas that require regional cooperation rather than a merely local approach, in particular transportation and land use. They provide all kinds of interesting planning assistance and help with grant writing for an additional source of funds for towns. All this enriches her perspective on the role of a Select Board member. I will enthusiastically cast my ballot for her.
Melanie Magee Shrewsbury
Municipal Reform Needed For Northborough Northborough’s annual budget meeting is near. Unfair and regressive property taxes and out of control spending by elected officials are major
The Marlborough Commuter Shuttle
service!
The 14 – passenger handicap-accessible shuttle connects local commuters and employees between the City of Marlborough and the Southborough MBTA Commuter Rail. The commuter route includes three round trips in the morning and in the evening to and from the business park at 200 Forest Street/ Campus Drive, Apex Center of New England, and downtown Marlborough. This option provides free public transportation for those who take the train to and/or from Boston & Worcester.
Monday through Friday
Morning Trips: 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.
Afternoon/Evening Trips: 3:45 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Any questions or concerns, please contact us at 508-229-2010 or info@marlboroughedc.com
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
issues. Transformation of municipal governance is badly needed if sustainability, affordability and taxpayer financial security is to be realized.
Elected officials are responsible for ensuring that we do not pay for services that are not needed; that costs are not exceeded beyond local revenue source capabilities and that basic services are rendered at a cost that residents can afford. This isn’t being done.
Municipalities can reduce spending costs by pension reforms, salary reductions or freezes; limiting public personnel and overhead; better vehicle fleet management; reject spending for unnecessary equipment, employing AI technology, capping school budgets, rejecting non-basic service project proposals; prohibiting transfer of public lands, buildings and tax dollars to private developers and businesses, and cease purchase of vacant buildings with no plan for their use.
Restructuring the tax system and reducing or eliminating taxes for those making less than $150K annually, espe -
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
cially senior citizens and those on Social Security are crucial to living quality. Households that no longer have children in the school system should not be required to contribute to school budgets especially when nothing is received in return and income level don’t allow.
Resident taxpayers should never be burdened for 100% cost of a major capital building construction with a payback period of thirty years as the new fire station represents. The impact on household finances wasn’t even considered. The fact that not everyone has the same financial capability, totally ignored.
This is not fair or responsible governance. Continuous increase of property taxes and flawed home assessments is discriminating against residents. When residents are used to fund outlandish extremely high cost projects, capital improvements or otherwise, it is discrimination. Knowingly and deliberately causing financial damage to a household’s financial means is by all accounts a crime. Budgets need to be de-
The Community Advocate’s Policy on Letters to the Editor
veloped that puts the financial welfare of people first.
No public service is more critical than a citizen’s own financial security. Demand respect and make officials uphold their responsibilities to us.
Gib Chase Northborough
Michelle Conlin for Select Board Re-election: A Proven Leader for Our Community
I am excited that Michelle Conlin is stepping forward to run for re-election to the Shrewsbury Select Board. Having worked with Michelle in various capacities, particularly in town governance and Scouting, I can attest to her tireless dedication, fiscal responsibility, and selfless service. Michelle truly epitomizes the essence of servant leadership. Michelle is committed to our town. Her strategic thinking and thorough understanding of local issues have enabled her to make informed decisions that benefit us all. Her leadership style is marked by an unparalleled work ethic
Letters must be signed with a name, address and telephone number for verification (only name and town will be printed). Letters should be sent to news@communityadvocate.com or mailed to Managing Editor c/o Community Advocate, 32 South St. Westborough MA 01581. The editor reserves the right to reject letters on the basis of length, libelous content, suitability and space constraints. Multiple letters from the same person will not be accepted within a 30 day period. “Form letter” submissions, in which the content of one letter is essentially duplicated, will not be accepted. Letters should be 350 words or less. Deadline is 12 p.m. Friday the week before publication. Opinions expressed in the letters to the editor do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Community Advocate management or its advertisers.
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and an ability to engage with community members, listening to their concerns and working collaboratively to find solutions. She brings people together and fosters an environment of collaboration and mutual respect. These are crucial elements for the healthy functioning of our local government to ensure sustainable growth and prosperity.
Her approach has made her an effective steward of our town’s interests. Her reelection will allow our community to continue to benefit from her leadership and to guide us through future challenges with grace and competence.
I fully support Michelle Conlin for Shrewsbury Select Board.
Stephen Hess Shrewsbury
I support Nicole Torres’s candidacy for election to the Shrewsbury Selectboard at the Tuesday, May 6th town election. I’ve gotten to know Nicole through our work together on the 300th Anniversary Committee, and I’ve seen firsthand
Cross-Border Blended Whiskey
how smart and hardworking she is. Additionally, her temperament, judgement, empathy, and humility are qualities we very much need our elected leaders to have. Nicole’s skillsets and values prepare her to be an excellent member of the board. Shrewsbury voters, please give Nicole Torres one of your two votes for Selectboard on May 6th.
John Lebeaux Shrewsbury
We Support Ann Marie Foley for Re-Election to the Grafton Select Board!
It’s now spring and with it, abundant beautiful flowers and the Grafton Town Election on Tuesday, May 20, to select two members of our Select Board. Ann Marie Foley has well served the town after being elected to her first term as a Select Board Member in 2022. We wholeheartedly endorse Foley’s bid for re-election to her 2nd term! WHY? Foley has shown us, during the past three years of her first term, that she is well up to the task
Cross-border blends in whiskey production refer to combining whiskeys from different countries to create unique, innovative expressions highlighting the best qualities of each region’s time-honored distilling practices. Traditionally, whiskey production has been defined by geographical boundaries, with Scotch whisky, Irish whiskey, American bourbon, and Japanese whisky each adhering to specific regulations and styles. Modern blending techniques have led to the emergence of cross-border collaborations, where distillers select and mix whiskeys from various origins to craft new and original flavor profiles. These blends allow for greater creativity, combining the smoothness of Irish whiskey, the smokiness of Scotch, or the richness of American bourbon into a single, complex spirit. A well-known example is the collaboration between Canadian rye blended with American bourbon. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or new to whiskey, now is the perfect time to explore the rich, diverse world of blended whiskey. At JULIO’S LIQUORS we cater to all levels of experience and take pleasure in encouraging all our customers to learn more about whiskey and feel excited about their purchases. Stop by our store at 140 Turnpike Rd., Rt. 9 East and take a look at our great selection! PH: 508-366-1942
P.S A whiskey blend may consist of 15 to 50 different single whiskies
Ryan Maloney, owner
Westborough Garden Club offers scholarships
WESTBOROUGH – The Westborough Garden Club will award two $1,000 scholarships to graduating high school seniors.
Applicants must be Westborough residents interested in pursuing a college major in horticulture, landscape architecture, botany, environmental science, or a related field at a two- or four-year college.
To apply for this scholarship, applicants should write a brief letter to the Garden Club describing why he or she should be awarded a scholarship.
Applicants should include evidence of past and continuing accomplishments and interests, such as club
memberships and community service, participation in special projects and activities, their career goals, and the area of study they wish to pursue and why.
This information can be mailed to the Westborough Garden Club, Scholarship Committee, P.O. Box 74, Westborough, MA 01581, or emailed to westboroughgardenclub@gmail.com.
All documents should include the applicant’s name, address, email address, telephone number, and high school.
The deadline for all applications to be received is April 22.
EASTER SALE
APRIL 10-19
spirits
We will be closed Easter Sunday April 20
non-alcholoic
Ketel One Vodka • 1.75L $29.99
Smirno • 1.75L after $4MIR $15.99
Grey Goose (Reg only) • 1L $29.99
Four Roses Yellow Label • 750ml $19.99
Bulleit Bourbon & Rye • 750ml $29.99
Jack Daniels • 1.75L $41.99
Johnnie Walker Blue • 750ml $194.99
Johnnie Walker Red • 1.75L $29.99
Glendronach 12yr • 750ml $71.99
Glenglassaugh 12yr • 700ml $61.99
Benriach 10yr • 700ml $59.99
Jameson • 1.75L $47.99
H by Hine Cognac VSOP • 750ml $39.99
Nolet’s Gin • 750ml $39.99
Tanqueray Gin • 1.75L after $5MIR $29.99
Bombay Sapphire • 1.75L $37.99
Captain Morgan • 1.75L after $4MIR $20.99
Goslings Black Seal • 1.75L $29.99
Bacardi Superior & Gold Rum • 1L $14.99
Herradura Silver Tequila • 750ml $34.99
Lunazul Blanco & Reposado • 1.75L $34.99
Bailey’s All Flavors
750ml after after $5MIR $19.99
Aperol Stock up before summer!! • 750ml$19.99
Fabrizia Lemon/Pistachio Gift Pack • 2x750ml
$29.99
Friends of Hudson Library plan Spring Book Sale
HUDSON – The Friends of the Hudson Public Library will have a Spring Book Sale on May 3 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and May 4 from noon to 3 p.m., at the Armory garage, 35 Washington St.
The sale will include mysteries, science fiction, hardcover and paperback fiction,
Tilden Tandem and Lacewing
Non-alcoholic Cocktails • 750ml $29.99
Ritual Alternatives All Flavors • 750ml $24.99
Mionetto No Alcohol Sparkling $13.98
beer
Coors Light • 18 Pack Can $16.99
Budweiser
Allagash Variety • 12 Pack $16.99
High Noon Variety • 12 pack $21.99
wine
Simi Cabernet Sauvignon $15.98 J. Lohr Chardonnay $11.48
La Marca Prosecco ......................................... $14.98
Line 39 All Varieties $9.98
Meiomi Pinot Noir $17.98
Mionetto Treviso Prosecco Brut $13.98
Moët Brut Imperial $59.98
Oyster Bay SB $11.98
Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio $19.98
Seghesio Zinfandel $19.98
Veuve Clicquot NV $69.98
Zaccagnini Montepulciano d’Abruzzo $15.98 gourmet
Hop-Raw Honey • 8oz $8.99
Stonewall Kitchen
Bloody Mary Mixer • 24oz $8.99
Old Bay Hot Sauce • 5oz ................................ $6.99
Stirrings
classics, cookbooks, history, children’s, audio books, puzzles, and DVDs and CDs, all at low prices.
Cash and credit cards will be accepted.
Proceeds will help the Friends provide items and programs that the library might not otherwise be able to afford.
Cultural Council sponsors sidewalk chalk project
NORTHBOROUGH – The Northborough Cultural Council will sponsor a downtown “Sidewalk Chalk Community Art Project” on April 26 from 2 to 4 p.m.
The event will take place at 4 West St. and Blake Street. This is free and open to all ages. The rain date is April 27.
Come for ‘A Musical History of Westborough’
WESTBOROUGH – For its annual Living History program, the Westborough Historical Society will present “A Musical History of Westborough” in collaboration with The Hundredth Town Chorus.
The concert will be held at The Willows, 1 Lyman St., on May 5 at 7 p.m.
The program is free and open to the public.
the
Northborough resident runs marathon
Finding strength through family and grief
Choudhury received the initial call while commuting home with her fiance, now her husband. She had no family history and was an active and healthy runner — cancer seemed impossible to process.
Three days before her 27th birthday, Choudhury underwent a bilateral mastectomy at Massachusetts General Hospital. Recovery was brutal, but it couldn’t have happened without the support of her family.
She couldn’t shower for weeks or raise her hands above her head. Her husband kept precise medical logs. Her mother organized her medications. They helped bathe her, and helped with months of physical therapy.
“They have been with me just beyond this diagnosis. They’ve always been behind me on anything that I choose to do,” she said.
But throughout it all, she felt the immense grief that came along with a life changing diagnosis. With her surgery, she lost the ability to breastfeed her future children. At a young age, it was difficult to navigate — to find the balance between mourning and gratitude.
As the child of immigrants, Choudhury said there were cultural obstacles she faced in grappling emotionally with her diagnosis. She felt the pressure to say she was fine, to focus on her strength. For the most part, she kept her cancer quiet.
But it was her husband, she said, who truly gave her the space she needed to accept what had happened to her.
“There’s always that vision that survivors are strong. They can go through everything. But I don’t think people realize that, yeah, we are survivors, but there were moments of reality, that we were still people. We’re not robots,” she said. “This strength was a journey. It wasn’t there from the beginning. It grew from having the space to grieve and having the space to realize, it’s okay that this isn’t my life anymore.”
The journey to Boston Choudhury was what she called a “recreational runner.” From half-marathons to Spartan races, she fell in love with the release of running.
After her surgery, she said she was “itching” to lace up her
sneakers again. While the road to recovery was long, she did eventually return to running. It took around three years for her to return to the intense races she loved.
“I was, quite frankly, afraid. I didn’t know if I could do it. I didn’t know if the mental strength was enough. I didn’t know if physically, I would be able to withstand those types of obstacles,” she said. She continued to be an avid
runner years after her diagnosis. In that time, she also became a mother to two sons. Her youngest was born in September. She found out she would be running this year’s marathon in December. Even though the training would be intense, Choudhury knew she
couldn’t pass up the challenge.
She hit the ground running (literally) in January, getting up as early as 4 a.m. to train before the day started. It wasn’t easy, she admitted, but she wasn’t just doing it for herself.
“It’s really to show my sons that okay, I’m not allowing this disease to cloud my life,” Choudhury said. “It was a hurdle that I had to overcome, but you only get stronger from this diagnosis. I want it to be for them, so when they grow up and look back and say, you know, my mom didn’t let this diagnosis put her down.”
What it means to run
For her sons, her husband, her family, other survivors — the list could go on. But one thing is for certain: Choudhury’s Boston Marathon isn’t any other race.
In her mid-twenties, she said she was “burning the midnight oil,” focused on her career and checking off milestones. Cancer rocked her worldview.
“It was all about, you know,
getting the stellar reviews at work, making my boss proud, my parents proud. And then I realized, all right, there are greater things in life,” she said. Through internal turmoil and grief and physical recovery, Choudhury has learned to embrace the little moments in life and define herself beyond “the big C.” It’s something that follows you forever, she said.
“Even if you’re in the clear, you never really get that clean bill of health, and you’re always looking behind your shoulder and saying, okay, I’m cancer free now, but there’s a possibility that it could come back,” she said.
Choudhury never expected her diagnosis. Now, running a marathon marks years of hard work, love, and devotion to her family, herself, and her future.
On April 21, six years cancer free, Choudhury will round onto Boylston Street and cross the finish line, running to her husband and sons.
“I just can’t wait to see their faces at 26.2,” she said.
Smriti Choudhury and her family, who helped her through recovery after a bilateral mastectomy. (Photos/Smriti Choudhury)
COMMUNITY HISTORY
NORTHBOROUGH THEN NOW
By Normand Corbin History Columnist
NORTHBOROUGH – With the current interest to improve Blake Street, an article about its early history is warranted. This article is focused on the time period from 1850 to 1900 when the center of Northborough was significantly altered by bringing the railroad to town.
Railroad Street
As late as 1887, Blake Street was called Railroad Street. The road was named after Eben D. Blake who was very involved with the Northborough community. He was on the committee to build the Center District Schoolhouse, served as a selectman, and sat on the committee
to purchase the town’s first fire truck. In 1853, he recommended that the town consider some funding to bring the railroad to town. In addition, he owned the tavern at the site that would become the large brick town hall in 1868. It is likely the street was named after Blake due to his community service rather than his ownership of a nearby tavern.
LEASING
The east side of Blake Street
The east side of Blake Street was dedicated to railroad operations once the Agricultural Branch Railroad arrived in 1856. Its presence significantly altered the village center. The railroad had a passenger station, freight station, and engine house. By 1873, the village center boasted several gen -
eral stores, a bank, an insurance agency, a saloon, a meat market, a cigar shop, a shoe store, a hotel, and two livery stables. Businesses that catered to travelers — such as a barber shop, livery stables, restaurants, and a pool hall—were located across Main Street from the passenger depot, while businesses dealing in bulk products — lumber, coal, creamery products, and grain — gravitated toward the freight station area.
With the railroad’s existence, agricultural and small industrial businesses now had a means to send products and agricultural goods via rail to Boston and beyond. It is important to recognize that during this time, Northborough was primarily an agriculture and a dairy community. For example, the 1866 centennial reported Northborough had 339 families and 144 farms.
Today, two buildings remain from the earlier railroad days.
10 Blake Street
This was the location of an early-20th-century creamery owned and operated by Deerfoot Farms, headquartered in Southborough. Creameries of this type gathered milk from local dairy farms, stored it under refrigerated conditions, and then shipped it to urban markets in refrigerated railroad cars. Today, it is the location of Fattoush Grill & Bakery.
14 Blake Street
was the famous colonial-era Monroe Tavern. The tavern was relocated to the end of Blake Street at the intersection with Pierce Street when the site was selected for the brick town hall built in 1868. The building there today is a replica of the 1868 building, which was destroyed by fire on September 17, 1985.
11 Blake Street
Built circa 1860, this threestory structure was originally the site for the stables serving the Munroe Tavern on Main Street. In the late 1860s, this building, known as the “Old Barn Shop,” was turned to industrial use. Several examples of industrial use in the late 1800s include Milo Hildreth’s shop, which made combs and jewelry from tortoise shells, and other businesses making shoes and corsets.
Josiah Proctor had the largest business at this site; he made horn and celluloid buttons. After Proctor died in 1892, his wife and daughter carried on the business, at its heyday employing more than 100 people. The building was reduced to two floors after a fire in the early 1940s. It now houses the Sawyer’s Bowladrome bowling alley, Aqueenrose Salon, Murphy Irish Step Dancing, and five apartments.
19 Blake Street
Cyrus T. Brigham operated a feed, coal, and grocery business here for many years in the late 19th century. Built circa 1880, the business was sold in 1888 to Herman M. Peinze who accommodated a grocery store in the front and a commercial bakery in the rear. His grocery store remained in business well into the 1940s. Today, it accommodates The Exchange Boutique & Spa, a vacant storefront, and six apartments.
27 Blake Street
This was originally a freight house used by the railroad. It used to be home to the Doggie Den, a pet-grooming business.
The west side of Blake
When the railroad came to town, the building at the corner of Blake and Main streets
This building was constructed circa 1870. Little is known about its history other than it appears to have always been used for residential housing.
31 Blake Street
In 1868 when the new brick town hall was built, the colonial Monroe Tavern was relocated to this site. The tavern was demolished and the current apartment building was built in 2004.
The east side of Blake Street was dedicated to railroad operations once the Agricultural Branch Railroad arrived in Northborough in 1856.
Cyrus T. Brigham operated a feed, coal, and grocery business at 19 Blake Street for many years in the late 19th century. (Photos/ Courtesy of the Northborough Historical Society)
Ridgemark Home Remodeling celebrates
REGION – Ridgemark Home Remodeling in Shrewsbury is celebrating its one-year anniversary.
Tad Jaillet, owner and licensed general contractor, has 20-plus years’ experience. He has been a business owner since January of 2020, when he cofounded the partnership H&J Home Solutions. In 2024, he became a sole proprietor and renamed the company Ridgemark Home Remodeling. In just the past year, the company has contracted work throughout Central Massachusetts for six bathrooms, three kitchens, two decks, and four additions. It
Ridgemark Home Remodeling in Shrewsbury is celebrating its one-year anniversary.
also completed several custom carpentry projects, including the installation of a 6-by-9-foot foyer entrance window.
Shrewsbury resident Mary McLaughlin said in her recent Google review, “Tad is simply the best contractor we’ve ever worked with. He’s experienced, has a great sense for aesthetics and promptly returns phone calls! Tad’s estimate was the most detailed and accurate of all the estimates we got. No surprises and everything was done within the budget.”
For more information, visit www.ridgemark-homes.com or call 508-202-0097.
Routes 9,
REGION – 13 Gables Inc. is celebrating 38 years in the business.
The company provides custom home builds, home renovations, commercial work, site work, and project management services. Since 1986, 13 Gables has been a cornerstone in the construction industry in Central Massachusetts and MetroWest. It has built a reputation of delivering exceptional craftsmanship and unparalleled service.
13 Gables staff members are fully licensed and insured, ensuring that every project meets the highest standards of quality and safety, and the team is dedicated to providing precision project management, tailored design consultations, and personalized project oversight. 13 Gables is committed to bringing customers’ visions to life.
WORCESTER – Saint Vincent Hospital is proud to announce the successful completion of over 300 Aquablation procedures, a major milestone in the hospital’s mission to provide innovative and effective treatments for men suffering from Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) and an enlarged prostate.
This achievement is led by Dr. Chintan Patel, Chief of Urology at Saint Vincent Hospital and a renowned urologist from Northborough, MA.
Dr. Patel, alongside his dedicated team of urologists- Dr. B.G. Parulkar, Dr. Ankur Parikh and Dr. Simon McRae-has brought significant growth to
Its general contractors offer after-hours service and oneyear limited warranties.
For more information, call 508-987-6263 or visit www.13gablesinc.com.
the hospital’s Aquablation program, making it the most active program in New England. Their experience and collaboration have brought one of the latest and most advanced technologies in prostate care to the region, offering a life-changing solution for men facing the disruptive symptoms of BPH.
13 Gables staff members are fully licensed and insured, ensuring that every project brings customers’ visions to life.
Town Meeting | from page 1
adjacent 30,000-square-foot Highway Garage and place a 21,600-square-foot addition onto the property.
Though the project was originally expected to come in at $26.8 million, later estimates had the cost at around $42.4 million. The proposed plans would result in a $51 net tax increase to the average single-
family home in fiscal 2027, with minor additional utility fees.
The Municipal Facilities Optimization Committee (MFOC) — which met over 30 times to plan the project — is confident the costs will stay steady going forward, and the committee will soon reach a “guaranteed maximum price” with Fontaine Bros., the construction manager at-risk.
Exceptional Care –For Families and Community.
• Assisted Living Residence
• Skilled Nursing Facility
• Residential Memory Care
• Short Term Rehabilitation
• Adult & Pediatric Hospice
• Adult & Pediatric Palliative Care
• Spiritual Care
Contact us to learn more about the mission-driven, not-for-profit difference at Notre Dame Health Care. 555-559 Plantation Street, Worcester 508-534-8302 Notre Dame Health Care For Family & Community
Roughly $4.4 million (10 percent of the cost) would go toward renovations at Town Hall, including work to lifesafety and HVAC systems. The proposed renovation of the DPW facility would also help Town Hall, town leaders say. The project includes about 6,400 square feet of DPW office space, enough to relocate DPW staff who work at Town
STAYING MENTALLY FIT
Growing older does not mean that your mental abilities will be reduced. There are many things that older adults can do to keep their minds sharp and alert. It is believed that many age-related changes that affect the mind, such as memory loss, are actually more lifestyle-related. As when the body’s muscles shrink and become less useful due to inactivity, so does the brain—it too needs regular exercise. Seniors can choose among many pursuits to remain mentally fit. Pursuing activities such as doing crossword puzzles and word games, reading, taking a course at a community college, cultivating a new hobby, and keeping an active social life go a long way to improving one’s mental quality of life.
Hall, unifying the department, solving (part of) Town Hall’s overcrowding, and allowing for greater “operational efficiency.”
At an April 10 Finance Committee meeting, Town Manager Kevin Mizikar outlined his thoughts.
“The DPW is often overlooked, but it’s ever-present … It provides clean and safe drinking water, and gets rid
of all sorts of waste. It’s right there when you turn out of your driveway, and they also create that really special place where kids will score their first soccer goal or lacrosse goal. What we’re making a request for is an investment in the physical space that is home-base for the workers that make all those behind-the-scenes miracles happen,” said Mizikar.
Learning new skills can keep the mind sharp. The process of learning a new skill helps to stimulate healthy brain activity. Some studies suggest that learning new skills may reduce the rate of developing memory conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease. To tour our facilities, please call NOTRE DAME LONG TERM CARE CENTER at 508-534-8302. You can also schedule a tour of our facilities at 559 Plantation Street.
P.S. A decline in mental abilities may be due to medication or disease.
MariAnn Paladino, Dir. of Admissions, Notre Dame Health Care Center, Inc. Long Term Care Center 559 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 508-534-8302
New Horizons retirement community in Marlborough offers an extensive activities program, allowing residents to choose between physical activities, artistic projects, outdoor fun, and many other options.
Each program and activity is specifically designed to benefit the well-being of our residents. From cooking and baking events to poetry readings, live music, and more, New Horizons encourages residents to continue to pursue and engage in their interests and hobbies.
Immediate availability, including three home-cooked meals daily, starting at $3,400/month for one resident.
MariAnn Paladino, Director of Admissions
Shrewsbury’s Chris Knight takes stand against cancer by running Boston
“ When I’m out there, I think about all the people that have cancer and are fighting it — it’s 24/7 for them.
Chris Knight
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – Chris Knight
wasn’t always into running.
While in the United States Navy Reserves, Knight had to run a mile-and-a-half at a certain time. As a 30-year-old who had been fairly active all his life, Knight thought he handled the run well, but as he took his final paces, he saw another member of his squadron who had finished the challenge minutes ago. He was casually lounging around, smoking a cigarette.
“I thought, ‘Something’s got to change.’ So, I started running more,” Knight told the Community Advocate. “Not necessarily anything crazy, but just trying to get out and run, get more fit. I wasn’t trying to beat people, I was just trying to be at least competitive with that guy.”
But for Knight, a Shrewsbury resident and former Westborough firefighter, running became more than mere exercise — it became a passion. Even though he had “no idea what [he] was doing” at the time, Knight ran his first marathon in 1996. And once he started, he couldn’t stop. This April, he’s preparing to run his 15th consecutive Boston Marathon.
he said.
And his efforts for DanaFarber go beyond the marathon. As an artist, Knight creates and sells marathonrelated prints to fundraise. He also customizes shoes — he recently made a pair of high-top Converse sneakers with Marvel
superheroes, for instance — to raise funds.
But Knight’s biggest project is perhaps what he wears on race day. Prior to the marathon, Knight’s clothes are signed by those who have had cancer, survived cancer, or, unfortunately, have since passed away
“The support out there, both from the fans and the volunteers, it’s — it’s just wow,” Knight said.
Do it for Dana-Farber
The marathons have added up for Knight over the years — he has quite the collection of medals, jackets, and backpacks from one of the world’s most prestigious races — but the goal has remained the same. Knight runs the marathon for the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, which seeks to “provide expert cancer care and groundbreaking treatments for adult and pediatric patients.”
Knight’s mother-in-law died of cancer, and both of Knight’s parents battled it. Several studies have shown that firefighters are at an increased risk. Cancer had become all too pervasive in society, Knight reasoned, and it was time he helped fight back. Dana-Farber seemed like the natural choice, and he’s raised thousands of dollars for the cause.
“I’m not getting younger, and it’s not getting any easier. But when I’m out there, I think about all the people that have cancer and are fighting it — it’s 24/7 for them. When I’m running 26.2, or a 20-mile training run, I have a definite endpoint. A lot of these people don’t,”
from cancer. All the signatures and artwork make Knight’s wardrobe look somewhat chaotic when the race starts. But seeing the names?
“It’s all the motivation you need,” he said. “When you look down at your shirt — that’s who you’re doing it for.”
THE WILLOWS AT WESTBOROUGH PRESENTS A FREE SEMINAR ON APRIL 24TH:
Simplify Your Space, Simplify Your Life
Join The Willows at Westborough at Tatnuck Bookseller for an uplifting seminar with Holly Colby of Adaptive Moving Solutions! Get inspired with expert tips on decluttering, downsizing, and organizing for a simpler, stress-free home. Enjoy light refreshments and extend the experience with an exclusive tour of The Willows at Westborough after the event. Please RSVP for yourself and a guest by calling Director of Sales, Danielle Pakus at 508-768-8923. We look forward to seeing you there!
April 24th, 10:30am
The Willows at Westborough 508-366-4730 One Lyman Street, Westborough, MA 01581
Chris Knight
Gospel choir performing at Pilgrim Church
SOUTHBOROUGH – Joyful Voices of Inspiration, a traveling gospel choir, will perform on April 27 at 3 p.m. at Pilgrim Congregational Church, 15 Common St.
The Pilgrim Choir will also be performing.
The concert is free, with a suggested donation of $10. Light refreshments will be provided after the concert.
Joyful Voices of Inspiration (JVOI), which is based in greater Boston, aims to share this music with others throughout the world, promoting an appreciation for the history and development of this American art form.
JVOI has toured domestically throughout New England, New Orleans, and Puerto Rico. International tours have included Italy, France, Ireland, Holland, Costa Rica, Uruguay, Argentina, Barcelona, Germany, Greece, and Portugal.
Northborough Select Board seat to be filled day before Town Election
By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter
NORTHBOROUGH
– The Northborough Select Board is seeking applicants to fill a vacancy on the board left by Lisa Maselli.
Maselli’s resignation was effective March 31, according to a letter sent to the Town Clerk and the Community Advocate
Library mulls next step after failed bid for grant
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
SOUTHBOROUGH – What’s next for the Southborough Library?
Though the library applied to the state’s Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) for a planning and design grant, it was revealed in January that the building did not make the cut. Now, the 14,000-square-foot space is evaluating its options.
According to Andrea BonoBunker, the MBLC’s library building consultant, “This grant round was the first competitive grant round since the program’s inception in 1987. Libraries had to demonstrate three types of need: community need, facility need, and economic need. Southborough’s need, particularly economic need, was not as significant as those awarded.”
Because of a lack of space and privacy, patrons are not allowed to conduct Zoom meetings at the library. There’s also a lack of adequate spaces for seating, additional space for media, and a need for dedicated youth program areas.
With the application being turned down, Library Director Ryan Donovan told Annual Town Meeting on April 7 that $150,000 for planning costs, approved at a previous Town Meeting, would be returned to the town. As for possible next steps, Donovan said it depends on the town’s mood for other large projects, such as replacing Neary Elementary School. Donovan added he plans to re-apply for the grant once he gets approval from the library’s Board of Trustees. Also, he hopes “to engage with town leadership and the respective finance committees.”
on March 21.
Under Northborough’s Town Charter, the vacant spot can be filled with an appointment made by the Select Board, Town Moderator, and K-8 School Committee Chair. Applications will be accepted until May 6.
The board, moderator, and committee chair will appoint the new board member on
May 12, the board’s last meeting before the Town Election on May 13.
Chair Mitch Cohen, who announced April 7 that he will no longer be running for reelection, said the appointment will be done prior to the election to ensure a full board as soon as possible.
“The first meeting of the board after the election, you’ve
got a full board, you’re ready to go,” he said.
While there could have been an appointment made prior to Town Meeting on April 28, the board agreed that it would be more beneficial to give time for consideration.
“I like having a good amount of time for people to think about throwing their hat in the ring for this position,” said
Board Member Julianne Hirsh.
In her letter, Maselli said she was resigning to “open the door for a new voice to carry the will of the people.”
Those interested in applying for the position should email a resume and letter of interest in a single PDF to townadmin@ town.northborough.ma.us, with “Select Board Member Search” in the subject line.
Supporting an Active Lifestyle
New Horizons retirement community in Marlborough offers an extensive activities program, allowing residents to choose between physical activities, artistic projects, outdoor fun, and many other options.
Each program and activity is specifically designed to benefit the well-being of our residents. From cooking and baking events to poetry readings, live music and more, New Horizons encourages residents to continue to pursue and engage in their interests and hobbies.
Immediate availability, including three home-cooked meals daily, starting at $3,400/ month for one resident.
An exciting time for Dull Men in Westborough
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – There is nothing dramatic about the new Dull Men’s Club at the Westborough Senior Center. There is nothing flashy, loud, or rambunctious.
And that’s the way they like it.
Organized by Lee Strout, the club currently meets twice per month at the center. He decided to form a local chapter of the club after seeing the success of the club in Southborough.
“They have 35 to 40 members now [meeting weekly],” he said.
On April 10, the Westborough club convened its third meeting, with 15 men in attendance. Strout passed around some unusual items: a Japanese lighter, some old carpenter’s rulers, and a “whatsit” — a mystery gadget with a little wheel on top. As the items were examined and guessed, some members called to mind
lives. For example, Bill Linnane recalled being in Taiwan on a project when someone asked where he came from.
Linnane replied “Massachusetts,” and the person asked him, “[Are] you anywhere near Spag’s?”
The conversation then turned to artificial intelligence and the role it could play in the near future. The topic was based on a club member reading an article on Bill Gates’ views on AI.
WE’RE GOING TO SPEND TODAY CREATING A BETTER TOMORROW.
Because cancer is a terrible thing, and heart disease still exists. Because there are questions about the mind and body that still need answers, we’ll continue to be relentless in our pursuit of better ways to help you live your healthiest life.
ummhealth.org/choose | 855-UMASS-MD
THE RELENTLESS PURSUIT OF HEALING
The Westborough Dull Men’s Club is a chance to have casual conversations about a wide range of topics (except religion and politics). The club meets twice per month at the Senior Center.
(Photo/Maureen Sullivan)
Almost any topic may be discussed, outside of religion and politics.
The Dull Men’s Club meets twice a month on Thursdays at 10 a.m. at the center, 4 Rogers Road. Those interested in joining the club are welcome to stop by, or call the center at 508-366-3000.
Learn more about the club nationwide at https://dullmensclub.com/
Westborough begins to prepare for Memorial Day
by the Department of Public Works.
“It’s a great way to honor our veterans,” the DPW’s Andy Boehling said as he installed banners along South Street on April 10.
Memorial Day
This year’s Memorial Day celebration will feature a parade of units, including town depart-
ments, youth organizations, and civic and religious groups.
Led by the U.S. Marine Corps Color Guard from the 25th Marine Regiment, the parade will march from Pine Grove Cemetery around the rotary and to the Forbes building on West Main Street, where the ceremonies will take place.
The Westborough Veterans Advisory Board is sponsoring and coordinating the activi -
ties, and is seeking additional elements to participate in the parade.
In addition to inviting and urging all veterans to come, if your group or organization has not committed to be part of the parade, the VAB encourages you to do so. The board is seeking decorated vehicles, marchers with group signs, and all others wishing to be part of this great townwide event on May 26.
Memorial Day | from page 1
On April 3, 2025, the Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of MetroWest held its annual Business Expo at the Doubletree Hotel in Westborough bringing together 1,000 attendees and over 100 exhibitors. The regional event created valuable opportunities for business owners, c-suite executives and industry leaders to connect with exhibitors who offer solutions to their business needs.
“The show’s strong attendance and high engagement continues to demonstrate the value of in-person connections and hands-on experiences, stated Karen Chapman, President/CEO, of the Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of MetroWest. The feedback the Chamber received from both exhibitors and attendees has been fantastic. People weren’t just walking the show floor, they were having real conversations and making solid business connections.”
The Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber prioritizes facilitating a myriad of networking opportunities throughout the year that brings hundreds of business owners
UPCOMING EVENTS:
and entrepreneurs together to develop connections for their business. The next major Chamber event to be held is Speed Networking for Business on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, from 5:30-8:00 pm, at Workbar, 111 Speen Street, in Framingham. This networking event will unite diverse entrepreneurs and industry leaders in a dynamic and energetic atmosphere to meet a large number of contacts to promote their business to one another. Participants will engage in meaningful conversations, exchange business cards, and forge new connections that could lead to new business collaborations or referrals. Unlike traditional networking events, the speed
4/16/2025 | NEGOTIATE LIKE A PRO WEBINAR Zoom, 9:30-10:30 am
networking format provides participants with a series of timed, one-on-one interactions to ensure that everyone will get a chance to meet multiple professionals in a short amount of time.
As the largest business organization in the MetroWest region with well over 500 member businesses and organizations from Worcester to Boston, and Rhode Island, the Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber is focused on advocating for local business, and helping our member businesses thrive and grow. To attend one of our upcoming networking events and learn more about all the benefits of joining, visit www.corridornine. org or call the Chamber at 508-836-4444.
4/30/2025 | SPEED NETWORKING FOR BUSINESS Workbar, Framingham, 5:30-8:00pm
5/2/2025 | CHAMBER OVERVIEW The Willows at Westborough (Community Room), 8:00-9:30 am Visit the Chamber’s website at www.corridornine.org for more information or to register for events.
‘We have each other’: Local benefit concert raises money, awareness for LGBTQ+ youth
By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter
GRAFTON – When Anina Lawrence enrolled in “Songwriting for Change” at Berklee College of Music in 2021, the country was isolated, working and going to school remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In the midst of the semester, their professor challenged students to put on an event or raise money for a cause important to them.
Despite social distancing, Lawrence put together “When the Sun Begins to Rise” (WTSBTR), a virtual show to raise money for the Trevor Project, an organization that focuses on suicide prevention for LGBTQ+ youth. The name comes from a song lyric Lawrence wrote at the beginning of the pandemic.
The first show raised between $300 to $500, according to Lawrence.
Five years later, what started as a class assignment turned into an annual concert benefitting LGBTQ+ youth across the region.
This year’s show was in Grafton and raised $2,525 for BAGLY, a Boston-based nonprofit that advocates for LGBTQ+ youth.
“My goal is always to bring
in queer kids into a space where they can see what their futures could look like,” Lawrence said. “You can be a singer and not just use your voice, but be applauded for it.”
The March 22 concert fea-
tured 12 performers from across the state, singing original songs from Lawrence, as well as popular beats from Chappell Roan, Phoebe Bridgers, Adam Lambert, and more. This is the second year the
show has been in Grafton at space donated by Apple Tree Arts.
Lighting, sound, and more were done by volunteers, some of whom also performed.
Among them was Emily Vincent, the show’s business coordinator. She has been involved with the organization for three years, after meeting Lawrence during a community theater production. Watching the show grow from a performance in a loft to the main stage of an art space has been nothing short of magic, she said.
“This show is one of the most special things I think I’m able to be a part of. Not only is it a bunch of queer friends coming together for a cause, but we get to make music together, celebrate the music of queer people, and be queer ourselves,” she said.
For the organizers and performers alike, it’s all about community at WTSBTR.
“Being involved in something like that is really nice; to be involved with that part of myself and my life,” said Art Director Sam Rutkowski, who is a part of the LGBTQ+ community.
"I remember sending a telegram with the above Scripture verse to my friend Hubert Humphrey just before he had major surgery. And he called to tell me of the strength he was drawing from that message. Everyone needs that inner strengthening that can only come from God who is bigger than you or I. Now when heartache hits, difficulties block your path or progress seems retarded, and you wonder if you should pack up or quit -- hang on! God declares it! We will never know how many people failed because they gave up on faith. Don't ever quit! I wrote the Possibility Thinker's Creed (left), to remind myself and others that we must develop the grit, so we don't quit."
- Robert Schuller (1926-2015), Living Positively One Day at a Time
That community is part of what pushes Lawrence to continue the show year after year. Now, following the 2024 election of President Donald Trump, Lawrence said uplifting LGBTQ+ voices is more vital than ever.
“Gathering as a community to talk [and] sing explicitly about the queer experience — and beyond that, celebrating it — has become a radical act of resistance,” Lawrence said. “That’s not what I intended it to be during our first year, but it’s certainly evolving into an act of political resistance.”
Lawrence, a songwriter and vocal coach in Grafton, was partially inspired by their students. Lawrence remembers being in school during Trump’s first presidency, and the uncertainty that surrounded LGBTQ+ rights.
Watching their students go through the same experience eight years later, Lawrence became determined to create a space to empower young people to make an impact in their communities.
“Even if the government maybe doesn’t have our back right now, we have each other,” they said.
Emily Vincent (right) performs at the When The Sun Begins To Rise benefit concert. (Photo/Courtesy of Sabina Davis)
Southborough prepares for 300th anniversary
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
SOUTHBOROUGH – For the past several months, volunteers have been planning for the town’s 300th anniversary in 2027. During the spring Annual Town Meeting on April 7, Tricentennial Committee Chair Don Morris announced some
M.D., MBACall (508) 836-8733 Street, Ste. 130 • Westborough, MA
Southborough will be turning 300!
Dr. Jean E. Keamy, M.D., MBACall (508) 836-8733 24 Lyman Street, Ste. 130 • Westborough, MA •
Healthy Tasting and Diabetes & Prevention
Sunday, May 4, 2025 • 2:30-5:30 pm India Society of Worcester, 152 Main St. Shrewsbury Admission: Free
Join us for an afternoon of healthy eating and learning at the India Society of Worcester. Our Vegetarian Tasting and Informational Event features:
• A delightful array of vegan foods to feast on
• A presentation on Diabetes and Prevention
Come enjoy an afternoon of community and wellness! For more info call: 978-894-6292
Sponsored by: Shrewsbury SDA Church shrewsburyma.adventistchurch.org
of the events on deck for the yearlong celebration.
These events will include a 1.5-mile parade, a drone show, a house/garden tour, a family barbecue and music festival, a cemetery tour with costumed re-enactors, a black-tie gala, and a community musical.
To help pay for the celebration, the committee has estab-
lished Friends of Southborough 300 Inc., a 501c (3) group that can accept tax-deductible sponsorships and donations.
Sponsorships, ranging from $1,000 to $100,000, can be spread over three years. The committee is also staging a brick fundraiser. For a donation of $300, for example, a brick may be engraved with a special
message. Engraved bricks will be installed at Heritage Park. The committee will also welcome volunteers to help with planning and fundraising. For more information and updates, including how to donate or become a sponsor, go to https://www.southboroughma. gov/781/Tricentennial-Committee.
The
Immediate availability, including three home-cooked meals daily, starting at $3,400/month for one resident.
POLICE FIRE&
Shrewsbury Police Department unveils new patch for Autism Acceptance
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – For the Shrewsbury Police Department, a patch isn’t just an accessory.
It’s an example of acceptance, awareness, and inclusion.
In April, which is Autism Acceptance Month, the department unveiled its latest patch, meant to promote the understanding and awareness of the condition. The patch will be worn on officers’ left shoulder for the remainder of April.
“We had a couple things tweaked here and there, but I think we hit a home run with it,” said Officer Justin Walker, who designed the patch with the help of other members of the Shrewsbury Police Department. “I think we did a great job with the overall design, it looks great on the uniform, and it seems to be accepted pretty well.”
In addition to the words “Shrewsbury Police,” the town seal, and the state coat of arms, the patch features a rainbow
infinity ring, a common symbol of the “infinite potential and diversity of the autistic community.” The phrase “Autism Acceptance” is also included on the badge, which has a background of multicolored puzzle pieces, another common symbol of autism awareness.
It’s the Shrewsbury Police Department’s third patch. The pink Breast Cancer Awareness patch is the only other special option.
And, as Walker made certain, the patch is about more than fashion — it’s about fundraising. The department is selling shirts, hats, and sweat-
shirts featuring the patch; 15 percent of sales go to the R.I.S.E. (Reaching Independence Through Supported Employment) Program, which supports 18- to 22-year-old special-education students. The program also runs Maple & Main in the center of town.
For Walker and the Shrewsbury Police Department, supporting the R.I.S.E. Program was a no-brainer.
“It’s something that’s local, in our local community, and they’re helping out our local community — everyone around us. That’s important. When you go there and interact with the kids there — see what they’re doing, the growth that they’re having — it’s something we really wanted to partner with. It impacts our community locally,” said Walker.
Want to support the cause? Patches are available at the Police Station. Orders for merchandise can be made at https://stores.inksoft.com/ shrewsbury_touch_a_truck/ shop/home.
Man arrested after road rage incident
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
SHREWSBURY – An apparent road rage incident led to a man being booked on several charges, including assault and battery on a police officer, according to the Shrewsbury Police Department.
On April 3, officers were summoned to the area of Bowlero on 405 Boston Turnpike. A driver told police someone was tailgating her, then pulled up alongside her car and nearly ran her off the road. The driver said the vehicle went into the Bowlero parking lot.
The vehicle, a 2024 Ford Escape with Michigan license plates, was spotted by an officer in the parking lot traveling at a high rate of speed in reverse. The vehicle then drove onto Boston Turnpike, crossed the first three lanes of travel with no turn signal, and stopped in the left-turn lane.
The driver of the vehicle, identified as Ernest Cordova, reportedly smelled of beer and allegedly had bloodshot eyes and slurred speech.
After refusing to leave the vehicle, police assisted Cordova out. At that point, according to police, Cordova began struggling and resisting officers’ attempts to handcuff him. Cordova then reportedly pushed and assaulted an officer, who sustained a knee injury. Cordova was eventually handcuffed and taken into custody.
Cordova was charged with OUI-liquor, resisting arrest, negligent operation of a motor vehicle (operating to endanger), assault and battery on a police officer, and a marked lanes violation.
He was arraigned in Westborough District Court on April 4. He pleaded not guilty and was released on personal recognizance. A pretrial hearing is scheduled for June 9.
Man arrested, charged with trafficking fentanyl
By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter
SHREWSBURY – The Shrewsbury Police Department arrested two men during a traffic stop last month after finding fentanyl, cocaine, and ammunition inside the vehicle.
Officers spotted the truck while on patrol March 24 and, after running the license plate, found the plates were registered to a different vehicle. Police pulled over the truck and, upon inspection, found that the driver, Josmel Mercedes, of Fitchburg, did not have a driver’s license. The truck’s passenger, Jerry Diaz, of Or-
lando, Florida, had a warrant out for his arrest, police said.
While arresting Diaz, officers found a bag in his sweatshirt pocket allegedly containing fentanyl. After searching the car, they also found a bag that reportedly contained cocaine, buprenorphine pills, a small amount of fentanyl, and one .32 caliber bullet.
Both men were arrested. Diaz was charged with trafficking a Class A substance. Mercedes was charged with possession, operating an unregistered motor vehicle, attaching plates to a motor vehicle, and more.
Southborough
Tuesday, March 18
2:41 a.m. Arrested, Jason Toland, of Water St., Framingham, for OUIliquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, operating MV with license suspended, speeding/rate of speed exceeding posted limit.
Wednesday, March 26
1:20 a.m. Arrested, Ihab Omar M. Alteir, of Barehill Rd., Waltham, for operate MV with license suspended, number plate violation to conceal ID, uninsured motor vehicle, unregistered motor vehicle, no inspection sticker, warrant.
Sunday, April 6
10:23 p.m. Arrested , Joseph D. Hafford, of Stow Rd., Harvard, for OUI-liquor or .08% 2nd offense, fail to wear seat belt, marked lanes violation, negligent operation of motor vehicle, drop cigarette/match on forest/field, number plate violation.
Northborough
Friday, April 4
9:06 p.m. Arrested , Matthew Michael Valcourt, 47, of 14 North St., Georgetown, for fail to yield at intersection, fail to signal, speeding in violation of motor vehicle, negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08%, child endangerment while OUI.
Westborough
Tuesday, April 1
4:12 a.m. Arrested, Garrett Sherrod Spivey, 32, of 103 Hart St., Apt. 5203, Taunton, on warrant.
Shrewsbury
Saturday, April 5
1:03 p.m. Arrested , Jasmine M. Dryden, 28, of 1 Crestwood Rd., Apt. 62, Leicester, for disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, trespass, warrant. Tuesday, April 8
5:04 p.m. Arrested, John Paul Mucci, 44, of 3 Summit Ave., Somerville, for larceny from building, receive stolen property +$1200, B&E daytime for felony/person in fear, warrants.
Marlborough
Thursday, April 3
8:24 p.m. Arrested , Danis Israel Citalan Perez, 32, of 464 Lincoln St., Apt. 2, Marlborough, for assault (3 cts), disorderly conduct, resist arrest, possess Class B drug, warrant; Luis Armando Ramirez, 30, of 91 Howe St., Apt. 1, Marlborough, for assault (2 cts), disorderly conduct, resist arrest; and Pablo Enrique Monroy-Lopez, 21, of 17 Neil St., Marlborough, for unlicensed operation of MV, fail to stop for police, possess open container of alcohol in MV.
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
The SPD is wearing this patch.
LEGAL NOTICES
Scan QR code for rate information or to email your legal notice.
WORCESTER
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice is hereby given pursuant to the provision of M.G.L. c 255 Section 39A that on May 2, 2025, the following vehicle(s) will be sold at a private sale to satisfy our garage keeper’s lien thereof for towing, storage, & notices of sale. To be sold at Belsito Auto 245 SW Cutoff Worcester MA. 2011 Ford F150 VIN 1FTFW1EF2BKD76444
SHREWSBURY
Town of Shrewsbury Invitation for Bids CONTRACT CLEANING SERVICES FOR SHREWSBURY HIGH SCHOOL
The Town of Shrewsbury invites sealed bids for Contract Cleaning Services for Shrewsbury High School. All contractors must submit bids in conformance with this Invitation for Bids and the related documents which shall be available online at https://shrewsburyma.gov/bids and also in the Town Manager’s Office at 100 Maple Avenue in Shrewsbury (phone: 508-8418508). Town Offices are open Mon, Wed, Thu 8:00 AM-4:30 PM; Tue 8:00 AM-6:30 PM; and Fri 8:00 AM-12:00 PM.
The awarded contract shall be for a term of three (3) years. The timeframe for the work to be performed shall be as follows: year one shall cover the period of July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026; year two shall commence on July 1, 2026 and end on June 30, 2027; year three shall commence on July 1, 2027 and end on June 30, 2028. Years two and three shall be subject to the appropriation of funds.
Bid prices for each year shall not exceed $300,000.
A mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will be held on April 29, 2025 at 3:30PM at Shrewsbury High School (75 Cypress Ave, Shrewsbury, MA 01545).
Bids will be received in the Town Manager’s Office at 100 Maple Avenue in Shrewsbury, MA until 1:00PM on May 12, 2025, at which time they will be opened publicly and read aloud.
Bids must be sealed and marked “Contract Cleaning Services for Shrewsbury High School” with the bidder’s name and address clearly noted.
A bid deposit in the amount of five percent (5%) of the total bid shall accompany the Bid and be made payable to the Town of Shrewsbury.
The Town reserves the right to waive any minor informalities in the bids and to reject any and all bids if it shall be deemed in the best interests of the Town to do so.
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY
Kevin J Mizikar Town Manager
SHREWSBURY PLANNING BOARD LEGAL NOTICE
The Shrewsbury Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday evening, May 1, 2025 at 7:00 PM, in the Selectboard’s Hearing Room at the Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, to hear the application of Habibollah Amani, 9 Wolcott Road, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, for two Special Permits by the Planning Board as required by the Town of Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII.B (11) and Section VI Table I, to have a two-family dwelling in the Residence B-2 zoning district and to allow for the Floor Area Ratio (FAR) to be up to 4.0 as shown on plans entitled, “Proposed Building Plan,” dated September 29, 2024; prepared by B&R Land Survey, INC, P.O. Box 102 Worcester, MA 01613; stamped by Robert J. Smith, PLS., consisting of one
(1) page. The subject project is located at 9 Wolcott Road, southerly of Beach Road and West of Maple Avenue and consists in whole or in part of Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax 32 Plot 354000.
A copy of the application and plans may be seen in the Office of the Planning and Economic Development Department at the Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA, and on the Planning Board website at www.shrewsburyma.gov/ongoingprojects
SHREWSBURY PLANNING BOARD
Timothy Fitzgerald, Clerk
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
PUBLIC HEARINGS
RICHARD D. CARNEY MUNICIPAL OFFICE BUILDING
100 MAPLE AVENUE, SHREWSBURY, MA
April 28, 2025 6:00 PM
To hear the appeal of John Couture 11 Plainfield Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, for a Special Permit to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VI-Table I to support creation of an in-law apartment on the second floor, upon property located at 11 Plainfield Ave in the Residence B-2 and Limited Business zoning districts. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 32 Plot 392000.
April 28, 2025 6:00 PM
To hear the appeal of Elyse Carr of 8 Caesar Place, Billerica, MA 01821, for a Special Permit to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VI-Table I to create a customary home occupation, bakery upon property located at 10 Higgins Street in the Residence B-2 zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 13 Plot 060000.
April 28, 2025 6:00 PM
To hear the appeal of Carla Da Silva, 3 Fyrbeck Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, for a Variance to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII - Table III to construct a shed in the front yard setback where it is not allowed upon property located at 3 Fyrbeck Ave in the Residence B-2 zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 25 Plot 052000.
April 28, 2025 6:00 PM
To hear the appeal of Michele Crouse, 24 Floral Street, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 for a renewal of a Special Permit to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VI -Table I to allow for the keeping of animals other than customary household pets on a parcel less then five (5) acres upon property located at 24 Floral Street in the Residential A zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 29 Plot 068000.
April 28, 2025 6:00 PM
To hear the appeal of Habib Amani, 9 Wolcott Road, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 for a Variance from the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII.B(11) to allow for two family dwelling to exceed the maximum Floor Area Ratio of 4.0 on property located at 9 Wolcott Road in the Residential B-2 zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 32 Plot 354000.
Peter Mulcahy, Clerk
SHREWSBURY PLANNING BOARD LEGAL NOTICE
The Shrewsbury Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday evening, May 1, 2025 at 7:00 PM, in the Selectboard’s Hearing Room at the Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, to hear the application of Al-Hamra Academy INC. 435 South Street Shrewsbury MA 01545, as required by the Town of Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII.F.3 for Site Plan Approval - Modification by the Planning Board to allow for the construction of an addition on an existing building. The proposed addition is shown on plans entitled, “Plot Plan,” on one (1) sheet, dated March 20, 2025 prepared by H.S. & T. Group, Inc.75 Hammond Street, 2nd Floor, Worcester, MA 01610; stamped by Danile J. Tivnan P.L.S. The subject project is west of South Street and southerly of Route 20 and consists in whole or in part of Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 43, Plot
001000.
A copy of the application and plans may be seen in the Office of the Planning and Economic Development Department at the Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA, and on the Planning Board website at www.shrewsburyma.gov/ongoingprojects
SHREWSBURY PLANNING BOARD
Timothy Fitzgerald, Clerk
HUDSON
Traffic Rules & Orders
LEGAL NOTICE
Town of Hudson
At its meeting of April 7, 2025, the Select Board voted to make the following changes in the Town’s Traffic Rules and Orders:
Under Article IV, Stopping, Standing and Parking, Section 13 Handicap Parking Section Q: The Five (5) eastern most angles spaces on Cross Street.
Delete the word Five (5) and add the word Seven (7)
Complete copies of the Traffic Rules and Orders are on file and available in the office of the Town Clerk or the Select Board Office.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Petition #ZSP-25-8
Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals on Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. pursuant to the extension of remote meeting provisions of March 12, 2020, Executive Order suspending certain provisions of the Open Meeting Law, MGL Chapter 30A, §18, 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 Jonathan and Tasha McNabb to replace a pre-existing nonconforming porch structure pursuant to Section 5.1.6 of the Town of Hudson Zoning By-laws. The subject property is located at 13 Park Street, Assessors’ Map 29 Parcel 271, and within the R-15 Single-Family Zoning District. 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 or Planning and Community Development Office during regular business hours, 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 25-9
Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals on Thursday, May 8, 2025 pursuant to the extension of remote meeting provisions of March 12, 2020, Executive Order suspending certain provisions of the Open Meeting Law, MGL Chapter 30A, §18, 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 Cellco Partnership d/b/a Verizon Wireless and Crown Castle USA, Inc., to amend a Special Permit issued on March 12, 2009 and as amended on May 12, 2022 and January 9, 2025 pursuant to Section 6.4 of the own of Hudson Zoning By-laws and MGL Chapter 40A Section 9 to add remove, modify, or replace transmission equipment on a telecommunication tower. The subject property is located at 1 Mildred Circle in the R-15 Zoning District, Assessors’ Map 40 Parcel 74. The Board may consider any action deemed necessary relative to the subject petition. All petition materials are available for re -
view in the Town Clerk’s Office during regular business hours 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 #ZVR-25-1 and ZSP-25-6
Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals on Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 7:00PM pursuant to the extension of remote meeting provisions of March 12, 2020, Executive Order suspending certain provisions of the Open Meeting Law, MGL Chapter 30A, §18 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 Molina Realty LLC requesting a Special Permit pursuant to Section 5.3.1 of the Town of Hudson Zoning Bylaws and Chapter MGL Chapter 40A Section 9 and a Variance pursuant to Section 5.2.4 of the Town of Hudson Zoning Bylaws and Chapter 40A Section 10 to construct a three-story multi-family dwelling consisting of 12 units. The subject property is located at 62 Washington Street in the NB Neighborhood Business Zoning District, Assessors’ Map 40, Parcels 48. 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 and can be requested by calling (978) 562-2989 or by sending an email to.
Antonio Mancini, Clerk Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
PETITION #ZSP-25-7
Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals on Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. pursuant to the extension of remote meeting provisions of March 12, 2020, Executive Order suspending certain provisions of the Open Meeting Law, MGL Chapter 30A, §18, 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 Golden Path LLC to replace a nonconforming front landing structure with a roof over it and two (2) retaining walls on either side of the driveway pursuant to Section 5.1.6 of the Town of Hudson Zoning By-laws. The subject property is located at 30 Maple Street, Assessors’ Map 28 Parcel 140 and within the R-15 SingleFamily Zoning District. 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 or Planning and Community Development Office during regular business hours, 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 May 14, 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 May 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.
2014 Chevrolet Impala VIN: 2G1WB5E34E1103107
Owned by Andrew Valchuisio
2010 Cadillac SRX VIN : 3GYFNDEY0AS500780
Owned by Yuri Barbosa Silva
2008 Subaru Outback Vin: 4S4BP61C58730729
Owned by Perez Fernando
2008 Toyota Corolla Vin: 2T1BR32E78C935719
Owned by Valdeir M Soares
2015 Taotao Taoi Lan Moped VIN: L9NTELKE7E1065276
Owned by Terri Quinn
2011 Cadillac SRX VIN: 3GYFNDEY6BS671244
Owned by Sahar Windawi Geagea
2012 Nissan Maxima VIN: 1N4AA5APXCC831928
Owned by Armstrong White
2011 Chevrolet Impala VIN: 2G1WG5EK9B1128007
Owned by Kenny Valin
This notice has been given under the provisions of G.L. c. 255, Section 39A.
Publication Friday April 18, 25 and May 2, 2025 Community Advocate.
FAMILY & PROBATE LAW
INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE
Docket No. WO25P1005EA
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
The Trial Court
Worcester Division Probate and Family Court
Estate of: Ruth L. Morton
Also Known As: Ruth Laufer
Date of Death: March 28, 2024
To all persons interested in the above captioned estate by Petition of Petitioner, George Morton of Acton, MA.
A Will has been admitted to informal probate. George Morton of Acton, MA, and Claire Morton of Cambridge, MA have been informally appointed as the Personal Representative of the estate to serve without surety on the bond.
The estate is being administered under informal procedure by the Personal Representative under the Massachusetts Uniform Probate Code without supervision by the Court. Inventory and accounts are not required to be filed with the Court, but interested parties are entitled to notice regarding the administration from the Personal Representative and can petition the Court in any matter relating to the estate, including distribution of assets and expenses of administration. Interested parties are entitled to petition the Court to institute formal proceedings and to obtain orders terminating or restricting the powers of Personal Representatives appointed under informal procedure. A copy of the Petition and Will, if any, can be obtained from the Petitioner.
WESTBOROUGH
Westborough Housing Authority Site Drainage Improvements Project #328057
Section 00 11 13 ADVERTISEMENT TO BID MGL c.30 §39M Over $50K The WESTBOROUGH HOUSING AUTHORITY, the Awarding Authority, invites sealed bids from Contractors for the Site Drainage Improvements at State Aided Development: Forest Lane (705-1) in Westborough, Massachusetts, in accordance with the documents prepared by ALLEN & MAJOR ASSOCIATES, INC. . The Project consists of but not limited to: Remove existing bituminous driveways. Reconstruct bituminous driveways. Re-grade lawn areas. Install new drainage infrastructure. Loam and seed all disturbed areas. Pavement markings. Minor associated site improvements. The work is estimated to cost $105,000.00. Generated By BidDocs: 08/12/2024 at 8:44PM EDT All bidding Requests for Information (RFIs) shall be submitted online by 04/29/2025 at 10:00AM
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
Bush, Jonathan of Northborough Christie, Charles formerly of Hudson Connolly, Andrew of Marlborough Duquette, Margaret of Northborough Hinkely, Marilyn of Marlborough Mejias, Maria of Shrewsbury Moore, Kenneth formerly of Marlborough Nault, John formerly of Grafton Nelson Jr., David of Shrewsbury Pierson Jr., Walter of Westborough Reebel, Deborah of Marlborough Robillard, Sr. Rose a Sister of Saint Anne Swanson, Ann Louise of Marlborough Tarpey, Matt formerly of Shrewsbury Valborge, Jeanne Maria of Marlborough Zanca, Lorraine of Hudson
Jeanne Maria Valborge, 92
MARLBOROUGH - Jeanne Maria (Alabre) Valborge, 92, of Marlborough, MA, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family on Thursday, March 27, 2025. She was predeceased by her husband Jean Rene Valborge on May 2, 1976. Jeanne Maria was born and raised in Dame Marie, Haiti, daughter of the late Absalon Francois and Amincia Alabre.
Jeanne Maria is survived by her daughter, Nicole (Valborge) Gelin and her husband Jacky, her 3 step-children, Ricky, Reginald and Christina Gelin; her step daughter Marie Ange Valborge, her 3 children Barbra, Christopher, Madgeen with her 4 grandchildren and family; her 2 sisters, Marie Marthe Colas and Noyeuse Alabre of Brooklyn, NY; her brother Jean Jules Alabre of Haiti (and the Alabre, Cadestin, Saint Louis, Renois, Francois, Port-Louis, Elane, St Charles, Sam, Sidney, Munro and Colas family) and other relatives.
Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted the family.
Lorraine G. Zanca, 80 HUDSON - Lorraine Grace (Johnson) Zanca, 80, of Hudson, MA, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family at her home on Sunday, April 6, 2025. She leaves behind her beloved husband of 56 years Louis A. Zanca of Hudson, MA. Besides her husband, Lorraine is survived by her son, Louis M. Zanca and his wife Sheri of Charlton, MA; her daughter, Laurie D. Zanca of Charlton, MA and her 2 grandchildren, Michael A. Zanca and Louis A. Zanca both of Charlton, MA. Lorraine also leaves her sister, Susan Anderson and her husband Albert of Framingham, MA/Palm Coast, FL; her sister-in-law, Joanne Menard and her partner John Surprenant of Ashby, MA; her brothers- in-law, David Zanca of Hudson, MA, John Zanca and his wife Sheila of Berlin, MA and many nieces and nephews. Lorraine was preceded in death by her sister Valerie Bissonnette and her late husband Robert Bissonnette and 3 brothersin-law, the late Roland Zanca and his wife Norma, Donald Zanca and his wife Winifred, and Francis Zanca and his wife Rhea, all of Marlborough, MA. She was also preceded in death by Pat Zanca, wife of her brother-in-law David Zanca. Donald is survived by his second wife, Eizabeth Zanca.
The Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted the family.
AnnLouise B. Swanson, 90
MARLBOROUGH - AnnLouise Birgitta Swanson passed away peacefully in her sleep Friday morning March 28, 2025, at New Horizons in Marlborough, Ma. She was born October 27, 1934, in Varberg, Sweden to the late Frederick W. Mortenson and Aina (Nyberg) Mortenson. She is survived by her daugh-
ter Lisa A. Delano and her husband Joseph of Marlborough, MA, and grandchildren Maria Vigeant and her husband Andrew, (great grandchildren Mya and Noah) Victoria Scarpato and her husband Rob (great grandson Nicola), Christina Delano and her fiancé Haley Christie, Her son Kenneth W. Swanson, Jr. of Newington, CT, grandson Shane Swanson and his fiancée Alana Karpovich, and granddaughter Molly Swanson. Her daughter Linnea M. Fields and her husband Jimmy of Lakewood, CA, grandson Eric Fields and his wife Elyssa (great grandson Easton), Matthew Fields and his fiancée Kylie Yañez, and Birgitta Fields and her fiancé Thomas Pridy. She leaves behind her sister Doris M. Sisley of CO and many loving nieces and nephews.
The Short & Rowe Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.
Jonathan P. Bush, 67
NORTHBOROUGH - All who knew him would agree — Jonathan was one of the kindest, gentlest men to walk on this earth. His love for his wife, Maggie, and his children Sarah and Sam, was seemingly boundless. His dedication as a father and a husband was unquestionable. He was humble in his manner of devotion — to his family as he worked to provide in all ways, and to himself and his passions as he made time for
(5%) of the greatest possible bid amount (including all alternates) and made payable to the WESTBOROUGH HOUSING AUTHORITY. Note: A bid deposit is not required for Projects advertised under $50,000. Bid Forms and Contract Documents will be available for review at biddocs. com (may be viewed and downloaded electronically at no cost). PRE-BID CON-
Scan QR code to read all of this week’s obituaries on our website.
long bike rides, and stayed up late nightly working on photo editing, gently strumming a tune on his guitar, or gazing up at the moon and stars.
Jonathan passed away unexpectedly, but peacefully, on the morning of Wednesday, March 26th, in his home. He is survived by his beloved wife of forty years, Maggie, and his children Sarah and Sam, as well as his daughter-in-law, Brina, his siblings Jane, Mark and Jeff… and a countless number of other friends and relatives who grieve the loss of this incredibly special man.
Hays Funeral Home of Northborough is assisting the family.
Walter L. Pierson Jr., 93
WESTBOROUGH - Walter L. Pierson, Jr., 93, of Westborough and formerly Old Saybrook, CT, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 4, 2025. He was the beloved husband of Sheila McPharlin.
Born in Norwich, CT, he was the son of the late Walter Sr. and Elsie (Pearson) Pierson, and graduated from the Norwich Free Academy.
In addition to his wife he is survived by his children, Eric Pierson and his spouse, Beverley, of Hollister, MO, and Michael Pierson and his spouse, Laura, of Chelmsford, MA; and grandchild, Ethan Pierson; a great-grandchild, Noah Pier-
son; and several nieces and nephews. He also had a close relationship with his stepsons, Emil and Evan Ray, and their families.
He is predeceased by a grandchild, Jordan Pierson, and his sisters Eveyln Gotschall and Marilyn Carberry. The Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
Matt F. Tarpey, 37
STONEHAM - It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend, Matt F. Tarpey, 37, of Stoneham and formerly of Shrewsbury. He passed away on Wednesday, April 2, 2025.
He is survived by his father, Francis X. Tarpey Jr. and his wife Dianne M. Fallon-Tarpey, of North Grafton; his mother, Debra B. (McCowan) Tarpey and Theodore J. Plona, Jr., of Charlton; his siblings, Nicole B. Grala and her husband Scott, of Shrewsbury, Steven R. Tarpey and his fiancée Olivia, of Newton, Caitlyn E. Austin and her husband Liam, of Worcester, Paul R. Fallon, of Somerville, and Courtney E. Fallon, of Charlotte, NC; his niece and nephews, Madelyn, Owen, and Mason, all of Shrewsbury; along with many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
The Britton-Shrewsbury Funeral Home assisted the family.
/ SITE VISIT: Scheduled Date and Time: 04/23/2025 at 2:15PM EDT Address: 23 Forest Lane, Westborough, MA 01581
COMMUNITY CLASSIFIED
HOME REPAIR & SERVICES
Equipment Operator II
The Town of Southborough Department of Public Works is receiving applications from mature and versatile individuals for several openings in the Highway Division.
Position: Equipment Operator II DPW Worker/Truck Driver
Grade: 4 2
Location: DPW, 147 Cordaville Road, Southborough, MA 01772
Status: Full-time Full-time
Hours: 40 hrs/wk, M-F 6:30 am to 3:00 pm 40 hrs/wk, M-F 6:30 am to 3:00 pm
Wages reflect the January 1, 2025 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) rates. A salary adjustment is scheduled to occur on July 1, 2025 under a new CBA.
The Equipment Operator II position involves work in all divisions of the Public Works with a primary assignment to the Highway Division. Work includes typical Highway Division operations including on-call duty, brush mowing, tree work, hauling, line painting, street sweeping, catch basin repair, pothole filling, plowing, and cemetery operations. Work also includes other Public Works operations including, but not limited to, water main break assistance and transfer station operations. The following is preferred: a CDL, Class A, with air brakes or must be able to obtain within six months, a Class 2A hoisting license or must be able to obtain within 12 months, basic mechanical knowledge and background in construction equipment, as well as general Public Works maintenance is preferable. Salary commensurate with experience. Starting hourly pay range is $28.70 - $34.61 per hour.
The DPW Worker/Truck Driver position involves work in all Southborough Public Works Divisions with a primary assignment to the Highway Division. Work includes typical Highway Division operations including on-call duty, brush mowing, tree work, hauling, line painting, street sweeping, catch basin repair, pothole filling, plowing, and cemetery operations. Work also includes other Public Works operations including, but not limited to, water main break assistance and transfer station operations. The following is preferred: a CDL, Class A, with air brakes or must be able to obtain within six months, a Class 2A hoisting license or must be able to obtain within 12 months, basic mechanical knowledge and background in construction equipment, as well as general Public Works maintenance is preferable. Salary commensurate with experience. Starting hourly pay range is $24.64 - $29.74 per hour.
Applications and full job descriptions are available at https://tinyurl. com/southboroughjobs and at the DPW Office. Applications will be accepted at the Southborough DPW office, 147 Cordaville Road, Southborough, MA 01772, Monday through Friday from 8:00am4:00pm or by e-mail to dpwoffice@southboroughma.com. Position open until filled.
SENIOR REGULATORY AFFAIRS SPECIALIST
Marlborough, MA
May require to travel/telecommute. Provide regulatory support on a range of Endoscopy devices and activities which include new product introduction. Contact: Susan Cardinal Boston Scientific Corporation, GlobalTalentAcq@bsci.com. Please include reference H4872-00882. (EOE).
SENIOR SUPPLY CHAIN ANALYST
Marlborough, MA
May require to travel/telecommute. Analyze supply chain performance and diagnose key improvement areas (e.g., backorder, service level, inventory). Contact: Susan Cardinal Boston Scientific Corporation, GlobalTalentAcq@bsci.com. Please include reference H4872-00981. (EOE).
SENIOR SOLUTIONS ARCHITECT, COMMERCIAL DATA
Marlborough, MA
May require to travel/telecommute. Architect, consult, and support multiple large, complex, cross-functional, or divisional projects. Contact: Susan Cardinal Boston Scientific Corporation, GlobalTalentAcq@bsci.com. Please include reference H487201107. (EOE).
FUNCTIONAL ANALYST, MAGELLAN DATA ANALYTICS
Marlborough, MA
May require to travel/telecommute. Participate in data scoping activities for new program releases, data cleansing, mock data loads, cutover planning, and data go live. Contact: Susan Cardinal Boston Scientific Corporation, GlobalTalentAcq@bsci. com. Please include reference H4872-01012. (EOE).
‘Words of Wellness’ is where book lovers and mental health unite
By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter
NORTHBOROUGH — Ask -
ing for help can be hard, said Northborough social worker Caitlin Mitchell.
Could a book club help?
“Words of Wellness” at the Northborough Free Library will give locals the chance to explore mental health tools and dive into personal growth. Facilitated by Mitchell and library staff, the book club will meet once a month.
Its first meeting was April 15.
“I think we’re all, at some point in our life, looking for something that is going to help us grow, learn, and improve ourselves,” Mitchell said. “Sometimes books and authors are the avenue.”
The first book the club tackled was “Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before?” by Dr. Julie Smith. The next book will be “Chatter” by Ethan Kross, which will be discussed at the May 20 meeting.
Smith dives into everyday issues, offering readers advice and strategies to improve mental health overall. According to Mitchell, the club can be somewhere for people to seek out these strategies and discuss them with other community members.
The goal isn’t to turn your life upside down, but rather, to find small ways to make an impact day-to-day, she said.
“If a person can take away one tool or one quote that sticks with them, I think that’s more impactful,” Mitchell said.
The initial idea of a book club was conceived during a Northborough Youth Commission meeting in January. Mitchell, who joined as the town’s social worker that same month, took the idea and ran with it.
Now, she’s hoping “Words of Wellness” will draw more attention to mental health and give people the resources to seek support.
“Asking for help is such a
difficult thing,” Mitchell said. “...We think of it mostly when we’re younger, but then as we grow older, we kind of build that disconnect. It’s harder because it seems more vulnerable.”
Whether someone reads the whole book or just a few chapters, if they’re excited to share their thoughts or content to sit and listen, everyone is encouraged to join, Mitchell said. As a self-professed book lover, Mitchell said she hopes the book club will have the same impact on her as it will on the community. And as a social worker, she said it’s even more important.
Mitchell also started dropin hours at the library on April 8, a new resource for Northborough residents. It’s one she hopes more can utilize in the future as a bridge to seek therapy and counseling.
“We talk about self-care all the time, but it’s so important and sometimes we don’t practice it as good as we want to,” she said.
Those looking to grab a copy of “Chatter” can do so at the front desk of the library. Audiobooks and books with large print may be available upon request.
Parcel across from Shrewsbury Market Basket sold for $6 million
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – An 8.70-acre site on Route 20 has been sold.
According to Worcester Registry of Deeds, 223 Hartford Turnpike — a lot on Route 20 across from Market Basket and near Lake Street — has been sold to 223 Hartford Legacy LLC, a
Wellesley-based company, for $6 million. Northborough-based Coles Pond LLC was the former owner of the land.
The local area has had some major changes. Edgemere Crossing — which includes Market Basket, Clinton Savings Bank, Starbucks, and apartments — opened between 2022 and 2023. The Planning Board is currently considering plans for a gas station at 193 Hartford Turnpike.
Are “Feet Store” orthotics even worth it?
By Dr. Donald Pelto Podiatrist
WESTBOROUGH – When foot pain strikes, it’s tempting to seek quick relief from a store selling “custom” orthotics. Before spending your hard-earned money, consider this: their “custom” orthotics are not truly made for your unique feet, and a salesperson follows a sales pitch—not a medical diagnosis.
Store-bought orthotics are often pre-fabricated, based on basic foot scans or questionnaires, offering only tempo-
rary support. In contrast, podiatrist-prescribed orthotics are designed by medical experts who assess your foot health through comprehensive exams, imaging, and 3D scanning.
False savings
While retail orthotics may seem convenient, many of our patients come to us after spending thousands of dollars on off-the-shelf insoles that lack the medical precision, durability, and personalization of podiatrist-prescribed solutions. A podiatrist can
diagnose and treat the root cause of your foot pain, providing a truly custom orthotic designed speci�ically for your foot when needed. For long-lasting, pain-free feet, call 508-757-4003. If you’re in severe pain, let our staff know—we’ll do our best to arrange an earlier visit.
COMMUNITY SPORTS
Addie McGrath answers early Algonquin surge, leads Grafton
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
NORTHBOROUGH – It couldn’t have been a worse start for Grafton.
Almost as soon as they hopped off the bus, the Gators found themselves behind. Their opponent, the Algonquin Titans, pulled ahead immediately, then doubled their lead. Soon enough, the lead was 3-0, then 4-0, and then, before Grafton players could catch their breath, Algonquin took a commanding 5-0 lead.
Algonquin had sent a message. But luckily, Grafton had the courage to respond.
Addie McGrath — a freshman who scored her first varsity goal on April 1, just a week before this game — pushed her team forward, helping knot the game at five goals apiece. In large part due to McGrath’s effort and poise, Grafton girls lacrosse ulti -
mately bested Algonquin, 1610, in this April 8 non-league matchup.
“We had a rough start. They kind of jumped on us. You tell
them to calm down. They were too amped up. This is a good rivalry, but we just needed to calm ourselves down and do what we do best,” said Grafton
Head Coach Karl Moisan. “And Addie, she’s a great freshman. She’s got a level of maturity that most freshmen don’t have. She’s an experienced club player, and she really can put it together.”
“I think it’s just believing in myself and getting encouragement from my teammates,” McGrath, who also stars for the Gators on the basketball court, told the Community Advocate after the game. “They know I can do it, and I know I can do it myself — plus my coaches are always encouraging me.”
McGrath finished with seven goals, while teammates Payton Morrison (5 goals) and Jocelyn Hamilton (4 goals) also contributed. After Algonquin’s early outburst, Grafton’s defense settled in, keeping the Titans off-balance throughout the rest of the game. Moisan credited freshman Olivia Foltz with a great defensive effort.
The come-from-behind win was made more impressive considering the setting. With nearly 40-degree weather at the start of the game — and the “feels like” temperature significantly lower, especially after sundown with whipping winds — staying warm, let alone competing, was a challenge.
But for Grafton players, their desire to win seemed to power right through the latenight chills.
“I think we stepped it up and realized if we wanted to win, we had to push through,” said McGrath.
“Starting the season off 3-0, there’s not a problem with that. We’ve got seven seniors, four of them are captains that have been together since freshman year, and they’ve all played together. We’ve got some excellent freshmen, and we’re starting to hit our stride,” said Moisan.
Addie McGrath looks for an open teammate. (Photo/Evan Walsh)
Owen Ellsworth’s complete-game performance lifts Algonquin over
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
NORTHBOROUGH – Late into the night before his scheduled start on the mound, Algonquin’s Owen Ellsworth was feeling queasy. Suffering from a fever, Ellsworth feared he’d be lighting up the digital thermometer — not the radar gun.
But Ellsworth’s performance on April 11 was hardly indicative of someone “under the weather.” Over the course of seven innings, the UMass Boston-committed pitcher fired an efficient 88 pitches, striking out 11, allowing just three hits and one run, and walking zero. His completegame effort was just what Algonquin baseball needed to defeat visiting Westborough, its longtime rival, to the tune of 3-1.
Pitching after a fever? Ellsworth had his team at a fever pitch.
“I was feeling it today. I had a little sickness last night, so my mentality was just throw it down the middle, see what
happens, try to be as efficient as possible. Pitch to contact — it was my main goal. I’m just proud of the guys,” said Ellsworth.
“Owen’s awesome. He’s a senior captain. He’s doing a great job getting his curveball, fastball, and slider over. When you can command three pitches and pound the zone, he gives us a good chance to win,” said Algonquin Head
Mere hours before the Titans and Rangers took the field, the ground was covered in snow from an early-morning flurry. Incidentally, the Titans are quite used to icy starts. Last year, Algonquin started the year a disappointing 4-8, and though the team built momentum and rallied late in the season, the Titans finished just below the .500
An Algonquin player dives back into the base. (Photo/ Evan Walsh)
mark.
But this year, Algonquin is determined to avoid repeating its mistakes. From the first game, the Titans have come out swinging, getting ahead early in games. It’s why, after defeating Westborough, the team has jumped out to an undefeated, 5-0 start.
Friday’s action was no different. Back-to-back firstinning singles by Michael
Chiocco and Cam Citro gave Algonquin an early 1-0 lead, and the Titans added another run in each of the subsequent two innings. The lead held despite a seventh-inning threat from Westborough.
“We’re a tight-knit group. We have so much chemistry, we hang out all the time. We stay together, we get each other hyped up. We’re always competing, every at-bat. We’re staying ahead, getting ahead, and getting that lead,” said Ellsworth.
Last year’s Titans were defined by an end-of-year ascendance. This year’s players are attempting to achieve that level in April.
So far, so good.
“The kids did a good job last year building momentum from how we finished the year. They’ve done a great job in the off-season working out. We’ve really been working hard in practice, and we’re finding a way to win those close games. This is a resilient group,” MacDonald told the Community Advocate.
