Community Advocate Nov. 13, 2020

Planning Board discusses how to address residents’ traffic concerns page

Gala celebrates and raises funds for area kids

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Vol. 46 | No. 46 | November 13, 2020

Westborough residents invited to try new ride-share service

By Jennifer L. Grybowski Contributing Writer WESTBOROUGH – For at least the next nine months, Westborough residents will have the opportunity to try out a new public transit program – Via- that can bring them to any destination within a 12 mile span in the greater Westborough region.

The Massachusetts Department of Transit recently awarded $460,000 in funding to the Worcester Regional Transit Authority (WRTA) to launch the program in Westborough as a pilot program that will run now through May 2021.

The program is similar to other ride share companies, but Via uses their own branded and wrapped fleet of vehicles.

According to Monica Ceragioli, a vice president with VIA, all drivers are thoroughly vetted and all COVID-19 safety protocols are followed. That includes cleaning between riders and plexiglass installed between the front and back seats. Masks are required to ride, capacity is capped at just three passengers per vehicle, and riders are prompted to use hand sanitizer before touching door handles or to stay home if they’re not feeling well.

Via | 5

Rangers’ #7 Kim Huang and Colonials’ #11 Kayla O’Leary battle for the ball.

inside this issue: Westborough and Shrewsbury battle to 2-2 tie

news .....................4 sports ....................21 homes & more ........22 schools ...................23

obituaries .............25 crossword .............26 police log ...............26 classifieds .............27

By Kelly Burneson, Contributing Photographer WESTBOROUGH – The Westborough High School Rangers girls’ varsity soccer tied the Shrewsbury High School Colonials 2-2 in a matchup Nov. 3 at Westborough.

Emma Mumby and Elsi Aires scored for the Rangers while Calista Vlahos and Abigail Vincequere scored for Shrewsbury.

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2 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 13, 2020

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 13, 2020 • 3

COMMUNITY | Viewpoint Honoring Westborough’s veterans

Please help Scouts fight hunger Region – Each fall, local Boy Scouts canvas the region collecting non-perishable items that will then be donated to local food pantries. The Scouts are still planning on doing so this year, but with safety measures in place. Scouts will be collecting items this Saturday, Nov. 14, starting at 9 a.m. Residents are asked to leave their donations outside their homes in bag or box in view of the street, along with a tag on it that notes it is for the Scouts collection.

As always, they ask that you check expiration dates before putting items into the box.

Letters to the Editor

The Community Advocate’s Policy on Letters to the Editor All letters should be 350 words or less. Letters can be emailed to news@communityadvocate.com or mailed to Managing Editor, Community Advocate, 32 South St. Westborough MA 01581. Letters must have the name, address and phone number of the person submitting it (only name and town will be printed.) Letters will be reviewed and printed at the discretion of the Editor for suitability. Letters that are deemed slanderous, libelous or attacking a person or organization will not be printed. Opinions expressed in the letters to the editor are not necessarily the opinion of the Community Advocate or its advertisers.

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The Community Advocate is a weekly periodical, (U.S.P.S. # 014-423), published by Bagdon Advertising, Inc., with offices located at 32 South Street, Westborough, MA 01581.

Periodicals postage is paid at Westborough, MA 01581 and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Please send address changes to: Community Advocate, 32 South Street, Westborough, MA 01581. Publication date is Friday. Deadline for R.O.P. advertising, local community news and classified advertising is Friday, noon, seven days prior to publication. Not liable for typographical errors, however, we will reprint that portion of the ad wherein error occurred if notified in writing within three working days of the publication date. All material included is the property of The Community Advocate and may include material produced under copyright or a syndicated ad service. Permission must be obtained in writing before reproducing any material from any issue of the Community Advocate.

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WESTBOROUGH – As is tradition, American flags were placed on the rotary just prior to Veterans Day to honor the town’s veterans.

Volunteers participating were from the Westborough Veterans Advisory Board, Westborough Rotary Club and several students from Westborough High School.

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4 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 13, 2020

COMMUNITY | News Church communities adjust to pandemic

By Liz Nolan Contributing Writer NORTHBOROUGH - Like businesses and schools, churches have had to be creative to adjust their services and programming during the pandemic to continue to provide the sense of community needed by so many.

Northborough churches have had to adapt quickly to offer outdoor parking lot services and virtual religious education classes, committee meetings, grief support groups and faith enrichment groups despite facing financial shortfalls.

“It’s an isolating and lonely time, and church is a very important part of the community,” said Trinity Church Senior Minister Rev. Valeria Schmidt.

“We are trying all we can to keep connected.”

First Parish of Northboro Minister Rev. Lynda Sutherland said they ensured that everyone received a phone call to touch base.

“I phone, text and email people and I also have been setting up some masked, faceto-face, porch visits and people are so appreciative of that right now,” she said.

Live-stream services is another way of keeping the church community connected.

“It has opened the door for some tech-minded people to join the worship team, which has been great,” said Sutherland.

Going virtual has had unexpected benefits. People out of the area or those who don’t drive or don’t feel comfortable to attend in person are partici-

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St. Rose of Lima Pastor Father James Houston greeting kids during the backpack blessing Mass

pating.

“People can participate in more than they normally could,” Schmidt said. “We are trying to make it as easy as possible.”

Church volunteers continue to be involved with programs like the Community Meals program.

St. Rose of Lima also has an outreach program focusing on their vulnerable parishioners to help identify their needs, provide resources and lessen feelings of loss and loneliness.

St. Rose’s Women’s Club made and donated over 3,000 masks.

“It was a gift for both those making the masks and receiving them,” said St. Rose Pastoral Assistant Theresa Fugardi.

A volunteer sanitizing crew has been added to St. Rose as part of the new protocols.

“It’s to keep the church safe

and at the same time as welcoming as can be,” Pastor Father James Houston explained.

St. Rose is planning a Family Fun week Saturday, Oct. 31, through Sunday, Nov. 8.

Activities geared to all ages are planned to highlight faith, fun, fellowship and service, including a virtual 5k race/walk.

All of these adjustments have had to be made while churches are facing financial challenges due to the pandemic.

“It has been a substantial blow because we do rent space to Nashoba Montessori School during the week,” said Sutherland. “They have started with half the students and we have lost several months of revenue.”

Although a recent virtual auction at First Parish Northboro did well, annual fundraisers like the Memorial Day

weekend yard sale, strawberry shortcake sale and Applefest didn’t happen.

“Everyone is making the best of what we have and not expecting ourselves to be or do everything we have been in the past,” Sutherland said. “We are noticing new opportunities and ideas as people start thinking creatively to fill needs in times like these.”

Despite the challenges that have been faced, there are positive outcomes - slowing down, more family and outdoor time, and spending less.

“Difficulties lead to new ar-

eas of growth,” added Houston.

“There’s hope. We are used to a quick fix, but people are adaptable.”

“I see so much kindness from people who are caring and concerned for one another,” said Sutherland. “Our sense of community has actually grown.”

“Church doesn’t stop,” added Fugardi. “We continue to grow. We are going through this difficult time together.”

For more information, visit www.firstparishnorthboro.org, www.saintroseoflima.com or www.trinitynorthborough.org.

Northborough Junior Woman’s Club to hold virtual craft fair NORTHBOROUGH – The GFWC Northboro Junior Woman’s Club (NJWC) recently announced that its 43rd Annual Harvest Craft Fair has gone virtual this year. The event will be held Saturday, Nov 7 to Monday, Nov 30 and will feature over 20 juried crafters. Bios of the crafters will be updated on the NJWC website with A variety of crafts will be available for purchase. photos of the crafters’ work and links to their individual websites, Etsy stores, or Facebook pages. Those who do not have those venues will supply contact information so that customers can make an appointment with them for a personal shopping experience via Zoom or Facetime.

The GFWC Harvest Craft Fair is the NJWC’s biggest fundraiser of the year and funds most of its community projects throughout the year.

For more information visit the NJWC website: https://www. northborojuniors.org or the NJWC Facebook page.

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 13, 2020 • 5

COMMUNITY | News

Planning Board discusses how to address residents’ traffic concerns

“

By Liz Nolan Contributing Writer NORTHBOROUGH - Northborough residents have been vocal about their concerns surrounding traffic in town. Northborough Planning Board Chair Kerri Martinek wants to be proactive in how those concerns are heard and addressed. This was a topic of discussion during the Planning Board’s meeting on Nov. 4.

Some of the more recent traffic concerns were voiced during public hearings in October for 0 Bartlett Street, owned by The Gutierrez Company, who applied to construct a distribution center. Although, the Board ultimately denied this project, resident concerns remain based on current and future occupants of warehouses on that street, specifically the newest occupant - Amazon.

Martinek said that the Board hears from residents through emails and public comment during hearings, but traffic concerns go beyond any specific application.

It seems that we are getting to a point where a lot of traffic concerns are bubbling up, whether it is in one area of town or the next.

Kerri Martinek Planning Board Chair

An Amazon tractor trailer navigates Ridge Road.

“It doesn’t have to be specific to location,” she said. “It seems that we are getting to a point where a lot of traffic concerns are bubbling up, whether it is in one area of town or the next.”

She wants to be able to open the line of communication with town staff and the Board of Selectmen to relay what is heard by the Planning Board, their concerns and what residents are sharing, and start to find some solutions.

Town Planner Kathy Joubert said that the Department of Public Works, Town Engineer

and Police Chief are in the process of putting a memo together for the Board of Selectmen to start to address some of the concerns.

She indicated that new traffic counts will be redone in the spring once the new warehouses are up and operational.

Joubert also said that the concern that tractor trailers were parking on the side of the street on Bartlett Street has been addressed. A granite slab is now blocking the spot that many truck drivers were using to pull off the road for required rest

periods, often overnight.

“This is a just a small step, but a significant step,” she said.

“Some of these short term issues are in the process of being addressed.”

Other areas of concerns and requests that have been raised by residents include crosswalks, pedestrian lights, truck exclusions and signage.

Discussions between Northborough, Westborough and Marlborough are ongoing, as any truck exclusion in Northborough that redirects truck traffic into those towns would need

Westborough residents invited to try new ride-share service Via | from page 1

Using the Via app, riders can hail a shuttle directly from their smartphone by selecting a pick up and drop off location; passengers can also call 508388-6620.

Via Transportation Program Coordinator Frank Stevens said Via looks to pair riders that are traveling along the same path. If there are multiple people going in a similar direction, Via will automatically and dynamically route the vehicle to pick up these riders.

The cost is $2 per ride, and

all rides either to or from the MBTA stations in Southborough and Westborough will cost just $1. Service operates Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The program is slated to run through May 2021 and will be evaluated after that.

“We are excited Westborough was chosen and this is an amazing opportunity,” Board of Selectmen Chair Shelby Marshall said. “We just don’t have anything like this right now.”

Marshall did note the town offers a great senior bus system, but that people who are not se-

niors also need transportation: families with just one car, people who need to go places not on a current bus route, people looking to lower their carbon footprint, and people without a license or vehicle.

“It allows more people to engage in the community and gives a better quality of life,” Marshall said. “It is functional transportation getting you where you need to go safely.”

Via has traditional vans as well as ADA accessible vans; according to the CDC, nearly 11 percent of Massachusetts

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residents have a serious mobility disability. In fact, Marshall encouraged people to set up an account for seniors or disabled people they care for that might not be comfortable using the app and book rides for them on their behalf.

“There are so many ways you could use this to enhance the quality of life of someone living in Westborough that has transportation issues,” she said.

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Joubert said there is no overall formal town traffic management plan.

“Overall nobody is disagreeing that this needs to be addressed,” said Joubert. “Any time traffic concerns are brought to the Board of Selectmen or to the Town Administrator’s office, it’s dispersed to staff, and it is typically the Town Engineer and the DPW Director and often the Police Department. It’s generally those three staff people who will meet and talk about it and figure out how to address it.”

Board member Michelle Gillespie said that Northborough is growing and is unique because three major, busy roadways— I-495, Route 9, and 290—border the town.

“There has to be some mitigation to help the town,” she said. “I hope that these mitigation packages rather than be a reactive approach start to be a proactive approach. Right now as a Board we have nothing to ask or question when we have an applicant who is going to have a large impact on the town.”

The full meeting can be viewed on the Northborough Remote Meetings channel on YouTube.

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COMMUNITY | News

New Native American trail historic marker in Northborough Submitted by Norman Corbin, Northborough Historical Commission NORTHBOROUGh - Did you know there was an important Native American trail that crossed through Northborough? A new historic marker has been installed to commemorate its history and location.

Well before any European colonization of North America, the native population had many trails that acted as routes to food sources and neighboring tribal nations. Some of the major trails can be considered as their form of a super highway.

A significant trail passed through lands that are now part of Northborough. It was a loop trail that separated from what the Europeans called the Connecticut Path in Sudbury and reconnected with it in Grafton. The Connecticut Path was the major trail connecting the Massachusetts Bay with the Connecticut River; it trav-

elled south of Northborough.

After starting in Sudbury, the loop trail travelled into Marlborough. It roughly proceeded from the current center of Marlborough along the southern shore of Lake Williams then to the base of Ball Hill in Northborough. This section would not be very different from travelling along Route 20 west to Williams Street then Forrest Street in Marlborough to Bartlett Street in Northborough. Just as it entered Northborough, it would have continued southwest over Ball Hill onto the old Westborough State Hospital property. Ball Hill is where there is a new warehouse building, along with the FedEx and A. Duie Pyle, Inc., distribution centers. The trail continued southwest leaving Northborough between Little Chauncy and Chauncy ponds into Westborough and then toward Grafton.

One key attribute of this trail is that it connected the native settlements in Marl-

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Walter A. Vickers “Natachaman,” former chief of the Nipmuc Nation and Northborough resident, in front of new Native American trail sign

borough to the one in Grafton.

The Marlborough natives were part of the Pennacook Federation of tribes that inhabited the valleys of the Merrimac and Connecticut rivers in Vermont, New Hampshire, and northern Massachusetts.

They were closely related with the village of Wamesit which was located where the Concord River emptied into the Merrimack in the current city of Lowell. The Marlborough location was called “Okommakamesit” and their planting field was very near current downtown Marlborough.

In 1643 they petitioned and were granted land by the General Court in Boston well before the first European settlers were granted Marlborough land in 1656.

Grafton was the royal seat of the Nipmuc Nation. Their territory included central Massachusetts and adjacent portions of Connecticut and Rhode Island along the rivers and streams connected to the Blackstone, Quaboag, Nashua and Quinebaug rivers. It is estimated that there were 5,000 to 6,000 Nipmucs when the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth in 1620.

Today, the Nipmuc Tribe is a “state-acknowledged” tribe and very active in the community. Their reservation land in Grafton is called Hassanamesit and was granted in 1728. The current chief is Sachem Cheryll Toney Holley.

Both settlements were converted to “Praying Towns” between 1650 and 1675 by Rev. John Eliot of Roxbury. One can

easily imaging Reverend Elliot traversing this trail as he taught the natives Christian values. During King Philip’s War between the colonist and natives (1675 to 1678) this trail became an important route.

The new marker is located on the Wachusett Aqueduct Trail just south of where it crosses Bartlett Street near the Marlborough line.

The Northborough Historic District Commission would like to express their gratitude to TA Realty for purchasing the sign and MWRA for installing it on their right-of-way.

For additional information: 1. Nipmuc Nation Website: www.nipmucnation.org 2. “The Great Trail of New England” by Harral Ayres, Meador Publishing, 1940

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 13, 2020 • 7

COMMUNITY | News

Hudson selectmen face criticism over executive assistant search committee appointments

By Dakota Antelman Contributing Writer HUDSON - Residents told Hudson selectmen, Nov. 2, that the Board’s decision, last month, to quickly appoint final members to an executive assistant search committee left them feeling alienated and discouraged.

Speaking after Beth Langlois sent a letter to the Board, both Langlois and fellow resident Shawna Weston agreed selectmen should have been both more transparent and open to new voices outside an informal but established pool of local government volunteers.

“I realize that typically residents that put their hat in the ring likely have served in some volunteer capacity already,” Langlois wrote in her initial letter. “However, there is a fresh perspective to be offered by the other 19,000 + residents of Hudson, knowing what they would like to see from the next Executive Assistant.”

The chief administrator for the town, the executive assistant’s office will have a new occupant by this time next year.

That news comes following an announcement that current assistant, Tom Moses, plans to retire in May, 2021.

The first step, now, in hiring Moses’ successor has involved convening a search committee to narrow a field of applicants down to three candidates for selectmen to further review.

Composed of five representatives within town government, that committee also features two at-large appointees which the selectmen chose last month from a larger field of 12 interested residents.

As Langlois noted in her letter, however, that Board of Selectmen vote to make those appointments at the end of a marathon meeting which prompted selectmen to avoid actually speaking with any search committee candidates.

That, coupled with the fact that one candidate selectmen eventually chose actually did not attach a resume to his interest form, left Langlois frustrated, she said.

“How would you have had all the information you needed to choose him, other than knowing him personally?” she asked.

Selectmen said they heard those concerns, acknowledging Langlois and Weston’s calls

for diversity and transparency on the search committee. Still they defended their deference to individuals with experience working alongside the executive assistant’s office.

“This committee is in charge of an extremely important appointment…” Chair Joe Durant said, Nov. 2. “It’s not where I would want somebody to take

their first steps in local government.”

Durant expanded, though, thanking Langlois for her criticism and vowing to consider her comments in future appointment decisions.

“I appreciate your concerns,” he said. “I think they’re well founded and I think they’re genuine.”

Elsewhere in their meeting, Nov. 2 selectmen recognized the decision of town veterans services director Brian Stearns to officially cancel the annual Veterans Day Parade due to COVID-19.

“This is still the time to show respect by honoring these men and women,” Stearns wrote in a letter announcing the decision.

“However, there will be NO public Veteran events or gatherings for this Veterans Day.” Read Beth Langlois full letter detailing complaints about the Hudson Executive Assistant search process... https://go.boarddocs.com/ma/ hudsonma/Board.nsf/files/ BUSJ2U4B1E07/$file/Langlois%20letter.pdf

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8 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 13, 2020

COMMUNITY | News

Region votes for Biden and Harris in presidential election Ballot question 1 passes while question 2 does not REGION – As voters across the country took to the polls this past election season, voters throughout the region followed suit as others did for both the presidential election and two Massachusetts ballot questions.

Democratic nominee, former Vice President Joseph

Biden, defeated Republican President Donald Trump in each of the seven communities that the Community Advocate covers. As of press time, Biden and his running mate, Sen. Kamala Harris, were still awaiting Trump to concede.

The President was mounting a

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That ballot question passed while Question 2, regarding ranked choice voting, did not.

In Shrewsbury voters also were asked to weigh in on two initiatives.

Question 3 asked voters to approve a bond authorization in the amount of a $42 million debt exclusion for a new police station and to repair and replace the town’s public safety radio system. That question passed, 12,019 to 7,857.

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Question 4 asked voters to decide if the town should adopt the Community Preservation Act, which would enable the town to establish, via a surcharge on the real estate tax bill, a dedicated funding source for preserving open space, historic preservation and create low and moderate income housing for individuals and families, including low or moderate income senior housing. That question also passed, 12,495 to 7,391.

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 13, 2020 • 9

COMMUNITY | News

Local state representatives support $423M FY20 closeout budget

NJWC honors town’s veterans

The tank outside the Legion is lit in green.

NORTHBOROUGH – The Northboro Junior Woman’s Club is honoring local veterans through the month of November by lighting up the outside of the Vincent F. Picard American Legion Post 234 in green.

The Club purchased green netting lights, green spotlights and single strand lights to decorate Post as a way, they said in a press release “to show support for some of the bravest and hardest working men and women.

“We are hoping when the community drives by the location they will remember and be grateful for our finest and all they do for us each and every day and what they have sacrificed for us.”

Hudson settles with companies regarding town’s water HUDSON - On October 29, 2020, the town of Hudson executed a settlement agreement with Boyd Coating Research Co., Inc., Precision Coating Co. Inc. and Dylan LLC, regarding releases of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (“PFAS”) from the manufacturing facility at 51 Parmenter Road that adversely impacted the Town’s public drinking water. As part of the settlement, Precision will transfer to the Town ownership of the granulated activated carbon treatment system that has been removing PFAS from the Cranberry Bog Well since July 2019 (a value of $1,600,000), and the three parties will provide $1,625,000 toward the Town’s on-going maintenance and operation of the municipal drinking water system. The three companies are also obligated to continue to perform assessment and remediation of PFAS releases at and from 51 Parmenter Road under the Massachusetts Contingency Plan with oversight by MassDEP. Since initiating treatment in July 2019, Hudson has been able to maintain PFAS concentrations in public drinking water below the Massachusetts health advisory levels, and the water is also in compliance with the maximum contaminant level for PFAS that was recently promulgated by MassDEP on October 2, 2020.

Flaherty Physical Therapy to host free back pain workshop NORTHBOROUGH – Kevin Flaherty, PT, CSCS, of Flaherty Physical Therapy, will be holding a free virtual “Low Back Pain and Sciatica” workshop on Tuesday, Nov. 17 from 6-7 p.m.

The workshop will cover how to exercise, and proper stretching and breathing techniques that can help your daily pain issues to allow you to get a better handle on pain management.

Flaherty Physical Therapy is located at 411 West Main St., Suite 3, Northborough.

For more information and to RSVP call 508-393-9000, or visit www.flahertyphysicaltherapy.com.

REGION – Local state representatives Hannah Kane (R-Shrewsbury), Carolyn Dykema (D-Holliston) and Danielle Gregoire (D-Marlborough) recently joined their colleagues in the House of Representatives to approve a $423.7 million final deficiency budget to close the books on Fiscal Year 2020.

House Bill 5102 was engrossed by the House of Representatives on a vote of 157-0 on November 5. In addition to addressing existing shortfalls at several state agencies, the supplemental spending bill also contains a number of statewide funding and policy initiatives.

Kane noted that the bill allocates $727,170 to reimburse cities and towns for early voting costs associated with the March 3 presidential primary. It also provides $11.9 million for Special Education Circuit Breaker reimbursements through the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

An amendment Kane, Dykema and Gregoire supported was one of only three amendments adopted to the closeout budget. The amendment, titled Women’s Rights History Trail Funding Extension, will extend the time during which the MA Office of Travel and Tourism can access funds for the women’s rights history trail.

To help address the opioid epidemic, House Bill 5102 establishes an Opioid Recovery and Remediation Trust Fund that will be administered by the Secretary of Health and Human Services and will be used to provide expanded access to prevention, intervention, treatment and recovery options. The bill also allows for a period of up to 20 years in which causes of action concerning prescription opioids can be brought against Purdue Pharma L.P., Purdue Pharma Inc., or any of those companies’ current or former owners, directors, officers or consultants.

House Bill 5102 also makes changes to the state’s Paid Family and Medical Leave Act by allowing personal care attendants and family child care providers to be included in the definition of “covered individuals.”

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COMMUNITY | News

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The group has placed over 90 banners along Main Street honoring its veterans and active military members through an initiative, “Hometown Heroes.” For more information visit bc4t.org. For more photos visit www.communityadvocate.com.

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Marlborough completes LED streetlighting retrofit project MARLBOROUGH – The city of Marlborough recently finished replacing 2,711 streetlights, reducing a projected 800,000 kWh. for an annual savings of $80,000 through National Grid’s energy efficiency program.

“We are always seeking effective ways to save our residents money through sustainability programs. These improved streetlights emit ample lighting, use less energy and last a lot longer,” said Mayor Arthur Vigeant. In a press release.

According to National Grid, the fixtures are dark sky compliant, meaning that they are designed to produce significantly less light trespass than the high-pressure sodium (HPS) fixtures which they replaced. The work started in the spring of 2019 and recently was completed.

“The City appreciates their partnership with National Grid and looks forward to additional programs that maximize service while reducing energy and our carbon footprint,” Vigeant added. For more information, contact the Mayor’s Office at 508-460-3770.

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 13, 2020 • 11

COMMUNITY | News

Gala celebrates and raises funds for area kids Laura May, BGCMW Director of Resource Development (middle) with Avidia President and CEO Mark O’Connell and Janel Maysonet, Avidia SVP, Chief Marketing Officer.

State Sen. Jamie Eldridge (R-Acton) (l) and Chris Duane, President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest

REGION – Each fall, the Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest (BGCMW) hosts a highly anticipated fundraising event, raising thousands of dollars for its programs. This year, the 15th annual Bids for Kids Auction & Gala was held online Nov. 5, due to the pandemic.

While an online event does not hold quite the excitement of an in-person event, it nonetheless still had an energetic buzz, as supporters logged on, raising nearly $115, 000.

BGCMW provides social, educational, physical and cultural programming for over 6,200 boys and girls in the MetroWest area at its three locations in Hudson, Framingham and Marlborough. Fifty five percent of the kids qualify for free or reduced price school lunches. Sixty percent live in single-parent households.

Programs focus on character and leadership, education and career, health and life skills, sports, fitness and recreation, and arts. While those programs enrich the lives of the kids, it also provides a safe, warm environment, which in this year

of the coronavirus, has been more important than ever.

“It has definitely been scary and traumatic,” Chris Duane, the organization’s president & CEO, said during the online event. She noted that the club’s three locations had closed during the early days of the pandemic but were now open again.

“Kids need a place where they can just be kids,” she said.

Several of the kids appeared on the online event, eloquently sharing just why this organization is so vital to them.

One young girl, Isabella, noted that she had missed her friends and “being on the bus” during the shutdown.

But there were also important lessons she had learned about from the club, she said, such as “not being mean”.

Other kids spoke about the positive impact the clubs had made in their lives, so much so, that they are now counselors there.

During the ceremony awards were presented to two honorees.

State Sen. Jamie Eldridge

BSA Troop 101 annual Wreath Sale NORTHBOROUGH – Boy Scout Troop 101 will hold its annual Wreath Sale Saturday, Nov. 28. These beautiful, freshly made balsam wreaths are on a 14” frame decorated with a festive bow, handmade by the Northborough Girl Scouts. The cost is $15 per wreath.

New this year, residents may order and pay online at https://ScoutSales.org?560.58.631. The deadline for online orders is Wednesday, Nov. 25, at 5 p.m. Scouts will deliver wreaths Saturday, Nov. 28.

The sale is the largest fundraiser for Troop 101. All proceeds support the local Northborough troop’s trips, camperships, maintenance of equipment and supplies.

For more information, email nborotroop101wreathsale@gmail. com.

(D-Acton) was presented with the Michael C. Sullivan Award.

In the spring of 2019, Eldridge, on a visit to the Marlborough Clubhouse, saw the need for improvements to the inside infrastructure. He advocated for the club and was successful in earmarking $200,000 for updates.

The Community Partner for Youth Award was presented to

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Avidia Bank for their ongoing support for the past 25 years.

“At every turn, Avidia Bank has been there supporting us, advocating for us, and helping us to meet the needs of our local communities,” the organization noted in its Gala book. “Avidia Bank stepped up in a new way by building a relationship between [pro football player] Stephen Gilm-

ore, Avidia and the Boys & Girls Club of Metrowest.”

Receiving the award on behalf of Avidia was President and CEO Mark O’Connell and Janel Maysonet, SVP, Chief Marketing Officer.

The Gala was presented by the TJX Companies, Inc. For more information on how to support BGCMW, visit www.bgcmetrowest.org.

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12 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 13, 2020

COMMUNITY | News

Planning Board discusses potential 2021 clarification, updates of bylaws

By Liz Nolan Contributing Writer NORTHBOROUGH - The Northborough Planning Board met on Nov. 4 and initially discussed thoughts for bylaw amendments and clarifications for 2021. More in-depth conversations will be held in upcoming meetings, but the deadline to submit articles to the Town Administrator is February 4.

Board member Amy Poretsky highlighted some areas where changes should be considered that have caused some confusion in recent hearings, and would clarify the bylaw for town staff, applicants and Board members for use in future decision making.

One such area is a better definition of a contractor’s yard, which she said was somewhat “vague”. Northborough could update the definition similar to how surrounding towns have it defined.

Poretsky said removing a use variance could prevent a

Joy!is

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If you really want to follow the bylaws and have them be what you want, say your downtown, as long as you have the use variance you will never hit that goal.

Amy Poretsky Board member

potential loophole.

“If you really want to follow the bylaws and have them be what you want, say your downtown, as long as you have the use variance you will never hit that goal,” she said.

“Anything that is prohibited can be overridden with a use variance.”

Another bylaw that Poretsky said needs updating is nonconforming uses to include the intent and purpose of the bylaw. An update would help to eliminate gray areas for all involved. She suggested making the bylaw more specific by including, for example, the definition of grandfathering

and the steps needed to assist in use determination.

“Grandfathering non-conforming is one of the more confusing things to follow,” she said.

Board member Millie Milton wanted to consider how the Planning Board could address sober houses or rehab in the bylaws “to at least be aware of what is our best course of action when we have something that becomes before us.”

Building Inspector Bob Frederico said that this is a protective class under the United States Constitution and the Planning Board cannot restrict them from any districts.

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For the most part, these are self-regulated and that leaves a lot to be desired.

Sober houses can go into single family homes overnight and as Town Planner Kathy Joubert said, if this is the case, by law it is not treated any different than your own house.

Board member Anthony Ziton’s areas of concern is Business West, which he sees much potential and an area to push in a different direction. This is the general area of West Main Street from approximately Pinehaven Drive to Crawford Street. He also mentioned wanting to explore signs again in the different zones in the downtown/Route 20 area.

Another a topic of discussion by Chair Kerri Martinek was accessory dwelling units, which often are used by people to take care of aging parents or an adult child with disabilities.

These units are 700 square feet or 25 percent of the primary house; anything bigger would be considered a second house or duplex. The language

of the bylaw was previously changed from in-law dwelling to accessory dwelling unit to open up the use to more than a temporary family need. Managing and verifying occupants would be difficult if the use was too defined.

Board member Michelle Gillespie cautioned Board members that as they make suggestions for changes in the Business West area to consider making a recommendation of what type of businesses they would like to see. She also does not want to see the small business owner be lumped into a broader definition and be eliminated from having the opportunity to set up operations in this area.

The next meeting on Tuesday, November 17 will discuss prioritizing the bylaw concerns and determining which ones to move forward with proposed amendments.

The full meeting can be viewed on the Northborough Remote Meeting channel on YouTube.

SELCO recognized as a Smart Energy Provider SHREWSBURY - Shrewsbury Electric and Cable Operations (SELCO) has earned a Smart Energy Provider (SEP) designation from the American Public Power Association for demonstrating commitment to and proficiency in energy efficiency, distributed generation, and environmental initiatives that support a goal of providing low-cost, quality, safe, and reliable electric service. Josh Mitchell, residential energy advisor at Chelan County PUD in Wenatchee, Washington, and chair of the Energy Services Committee, presented the designations on Oct. 28 during the Association’s annual Customer Connections Virtual Conference.

The SEP designation, which lasts for two years (December 1, 2020 to November 30, 2022) recognizes public power utilities for demonstrating leading practices in four key disciplines: smart energy program structure; energy efficiency and distributed energy programs; environmental and sustainability initiatives; and the customer experience. SELCO joins more than 85 public power utilities nationwide that hold the SEP designation.

“Public power utilities excel at offering outstanding customer service, excellent reliability, low rates, and comprehensive energy services programs. We believe this approach is key to providing an overall positive experience for our customers,” said Jackie Pratt, SELCO Marketing and Customer Care Manager. “As our industry evolves and customer expectations change, the need to communicate the value of our smart energy programs will be more important than ever. APPA’s Smart Energy Provider designation helps us achieve this goal by recognizing our efforts to drive innovation and smart energy use within our community.”

SELCO is a community owned and operated utility providing Shrewsbury residents and businesses with high-quality electric and broadband services at competitive prices.

The American Public Power Association is the voice of not-for-profit, community-owned utilities that power 49 million people in 2,000 towns and cities nationwide. The Association advocates and advises on electricity policy, technology, trends, training, and operations.

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 13, 2020 • 13

COMMUNITY | News

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Assistant City Clerk Wilson Chu and City Clerk Steven Kerrigan

By Vicki Greene, Contributing Writer MARLBOROUGH – City Clerk Steven Kerrigan and Assistant City Clerk Wilson Chu were busy earlier on the evening of Nov. 3, Election Day, entering ballots from residents living overseas and military members who are stationed overseas. According to Kerrigan, they received 40 which is similar to years past.

The ballots they were entering were submitted via email which is the mandate however; those populations are also able to mail in and if postmarked by Nov. 3, they can be counted until Nov. 13.

In Marlborough, all absentee and mail-in ballots were not counted until Nov. 3 and were counted in each ward.

Southborough Gardeners to host holiday sale SOUTHBOROUGH - With the holiday season soon approaching, the Southborough Gardeners are inviting the public to visit their Holiday Sale in December COVID-19 style.

They will offer hand crafted fresh arrangements in a variety of seasonal containers and four different styles of beautifully decorated fresh wreaths for your homes or front doors for the winter season.

All items will be made to order. To view photographs of each unique arrangement and wreath, visit their Facebook page for details. Click on the link provided to access the order form. You will be able to make your selection as well as obtain information on payment. Social distancing curbside pick-up will be on Saturday, Dec. 5, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. All proceeds will fund Town Beautification

Westborough’s annual Turkey Trot has gone ‘free range’ for 2020 WESTBOROUGH – The Westborough Turkey Trot introduces the 2020 Free Range 5K virtual event this year. Event participants will be able to complete their own 5K between Nov. 21 and 28, anywhere, anytime. Proceeds will be used to further technology initiatives and to fund innovative resources for students and teachers in Westborough Public Schools.

Together with families, faculty, community members and sponsors, the Westborough Turkey Trot has raised $150,000 to date.

For more information visit www.westboroughturkeytrot.com or email turkeytrot@westboroughk12.org.

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14 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 13, 2020

COMMUNITY | News

Scout Troop is prepared to continue during a pandemic Troop 1 and Troop 823 at a pre-pandemic outing at Metro Rock in Littleton

By Liz Nolan Contributing Writer

PHOTO/CRAIG COX

NORTHBOROUGH - Scouts are resourceful and always prepared. When faced with a pandemic, members of Northborough Boy Scout Troop 1 showed their creativity in being able to continue to meet and engage in Scouting activities.

Committee Chair and 23year Scouting veteran Ernie Wolshin said although the troop cannot meet as a large group, they have been able to meet via Zoom or outside in a parking lot, and plan trips that allow for proper social distancing.

Scoutmaster George Brenckle said a kayaking trip on the Charles River attracted a great turnout.

“Everyone was feeling cooped up,” he said. “It was an opportunity to get outside and the nice thing about a kayak is that you can paddle away from everyone else. Social distancing is easy on the river.”

The plan is to continue outings while following state, local

council and the National BSA restrictions and guidelines to keep safety a priority.

Also planned for the fall are a fishing derby, hikes and bike trail trips. Winter plans are in progress for cross-country skiing and sledding.

Although some of the Troop meetings have been held via

Zoom, Brenckle and Wolshin acknowledged that Zoom fatigue can set in when students use it for school as well as for activities outside of school.

“One of the problems with this is that you are losing some of the social cohesion because you are not getting together and that has been a challenge,” said

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Brenckle.

Another challenge is that it has been difficult for new Scouts who crossed over from Cub Scouts to become acquainted with the troop and have the opportunity to develop basic skills, such as setting up a tent, building a fire and cooking.

“They still want to get out

and are curious about the world, but the traditions are a little different,” said Wolshin.

In lieu of group camping, a virtual camp night was coordinated. Scouts camped in their own back yard, cooked and ate their meals outside, and connected with one another via Zoom.

“Scouting is all about being resourceful and having a Plan B and C, as well as A,” said Wolshin. “Kids want to get out to do something and it means more when you have been in a lot.

We want to demonstrate that life goes on; it’s different, but it doesn’t stop.”

The annual Scouting for Food event will be held Saturday, Nov. 14. Unlike past years, residents will not see the usual door hanger reminders, but are asked to put bags of non-perishable donations in a bag at the end of their driveway.

Additional information on Troop 1 can be found at www. troop1northboro.org and on all Scouting opportunities at www. beascout.org.

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 13, 2020 • 15

COMMUNITY | News

Hudson demolishes decaying factory

“

By Dakota Antelman Contributing Writer

PHOTO/DAKOTA ANTELMAN

HUDSON - A long-standing fixture of the downtown Hudson landscape is gone after a fastmoving demolition process.

The H. LaRosee and Sons metal plating factory stood for 130 years at the intersection of Broad St. and South St. But it fell into disrepair, recently, prompting its eventual demolition to make room for a new parking lot.

“That’s a win,” Acting Planning and Community Development Director Kristina Johnson told selectmen, Oct. 19. “We need more parking downtown, especially in that area.”

Crews from J.R. Vinagro Corp. set to work, Oct. 20 on a nearly $300,000 town contract to tear down the old factory.

Three years after a notable chemical spill at H. LaRosee and Sons required hazmat teams to clean up, Johnson said town officials chose Vina-

An excavator tears through the floor of part of the old LaRosee and Sons factory.

gro Corp. in part because of a demonstrated record of work handling potentially hazardous properties.

“They specialize in these kinds of delicate demolitions,” she said. “…This is their wheelhouse.”

Hudson has been prepping for this demolition for close to a year. A $400,000 state grant first started the ball rolling,

helping fund surveys of the LaRosee factory and, more recently, helping draft everything from erosion control plans, to security measures to support the demolition.

As work commenced, jersey barriers and police details blocked off vehicle and pedestrian traffic in the immediate “fall zone” nearby.

Johnson said her office

That’s a win. We need more parking downtown, especially in that area.

Kristina Johnson Acting Planning and Community Development Director

had personally delivered flyers to 150 nearby properties informing owners and tenants of these traffic plans.

One set of residents directly abutting the LaRosee factory, she further indicated, said they planned to vacate their home during the peak of demolition activities.

Initially, Johnson predicted that work would take four weeks, with crews needing at least two weeks to bring the building below the height of nearby utility wires.

By midday Oct. 23, however, just four days into the demolition, Vinagro Corp.

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was already digging into the foundation and basement of the old structure, seemingly indicating work moving ahead of schedule.

As new space opens downtown, Johnson and other local leaders are celebrating the promise of badly needed parking near popular businesses.

Along the way, they say they’re proud of collaboration to tackle what Johnson has long described as a public safety hazard.

“This was a team effort,” she said of demolition planning. “It was all hands on deck to get this building down.”

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16 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 13, 2020

COMMUNITY | News

Shrewsbury Historical Society honors local residents Left: Paul and Mame Little

SHREWSBURY - Each year, as part of its outreach to the community, the Shrewsbury Historical Society presents two special awards.

The Shrewsbury History Award is given to a person who shows a record of outstanding leadership, service and interest in the history of the town. The Shrewsbury History Award was presented to David Prince, who redesigned the Shrewsbury Historical Society website.

The society also honors an individual or organization that completed a restoration that is an enduring example of Shrewsbury’s historic architecture. The Shrewsbury Historical Society Restoration and Preservation Award was presented to Paul and Mame Little for the recent restoration of the Philo Slocomb House on Prospect Street.

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 13, 2020 • 17

COMMUNITY | Business

Charlton Kleening Service: Where a clean home is a happy home

Charlton Kleening Service also does snow removal.

By Melanie Petrucci Senior Community Reporter CHARLTON –Debbie Perks, owner of Charlton Kleening Service, offers a one stop shopping approach to cleaning.

Whether it be residential or commercial, move-in or moveout, fall or spring cleaning – they do it all within a range of communities from Warren to Hudson, Mass.

Debbie has been cleaning homes since 1998. She has a wealth of expertise and keeps up to date with industry best practices, especially during the pandemic. She said: “Sanitizing and disinfecting as we clean is standard because it keeps you safe and it keeps us safe.”

The pride that she takes in cleaning your home extends to office spaces, too. It is part of

the reason she has earned an A+ distinction with the Better Business Bureau and a trusted listing on Angie’s List.

Charlton Kleening Servic-

Tallman to assume role of Cornerstone Bank CEO Jan. 1 REGION - Effective January 1, 2021, Cornerstone Bank President and Treasurer Todd Tallman will be appointed the bank’s CEO. Tallman steps into the role as a banking veteran with over 20 years of experience.

“Knowing Todd as well as I do, I am fully confident he will serve as an outstanding CEO,” stated K. Michael Robbins, who will retire as Cornerstone Bank CEO Thursday, Dec. Cornerstone Bank President and Treasurer Todd 31, but continue to Tallman serve as the bank’s chair. “Todd’s management, leadership and professional skills - not to mention that he’s a fine, caring individual by nature - make him eminently qualified for this position.”

A Certified Public Accountant, Tallman began his career as an Audit Manager at KPMG. After joining Southbridge Savings Bank in 1998 as chief financial officer, he served in increasingly senior positions until his promotion to president/CEO in 2014. Subsequently, in 2016, when Southbridge Savings Bank and SpencerBANK created a merger of equals to form Cornerstone Bank with assets totaling $1.3 billion, Tallman was named president and treasurer.

es also provides professional cleaning for the exterior of your home or business by offering four seasons of maintenance from power washing to snow

removal. Now is a great time to get your deck, deck furniture and walkways ready for winter.

And winter is just around the corner too! Let them take

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care roof raking, snowplowing and clear your walkways, so you don’t have to.

In conjunction with their cleaning business they will also take care of your four-legged furry friends with their “Dogs Home Care” service. Why put your pooch in a crowded kennel when it can be “safe and sound at home?”

“We will take care of your animals at your own home, so when you come home, they will be happy and relaxed,” Debbie noted. “And we also offer dog walking.”

To schedule your free inhome estimate give them a call at 508-248-7267 or email charltonkleening@gmail.com.

Their hours of operation are Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Saturdays, 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Cash and checks are preferred.

18 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 13, 2020

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ow to be grateful in a new and everchanging world that has messed with our life experience; our very existence? We have been caught in a wave of anxiety, fear, anger and even divisiveness that has shaken us to the core, challenging our sensibilities and security. And yet, we marvel at the resiliency of the human spirit to adjust and pivot around unforeseen obstacles.

Despite it all, we can still feel gratitude. Take a deep breath. As you exhale, name one thing you are grateful for. Maybe you are grateful for the warmth of the sun on your face or the stars in the night sky? Or, the smell of a fresh cup of coffee, a kind word from a stranger or waking to a new day?

Making a daily gratitude list has been proven to reduce pain, anxiety and depression, enhance sleep quality, improve relationships and much more! Setting an intention of gratitude for your yoga practice

or meditation is a great way to enhance your overall well-being.

At Synergy Wellness Center, we offer a variety of daily yoga/meditation classes for all levels including Chair, Kids’ Tabata, Prenatal/Postnatal yoga and Pilates Flow via livestream and some inperson. Can’t make your favorite class? Register in advance and we will email a recording of the class to you.

Whether Swedish or deep tissue massage, our licensed massage therapists are also experienced in various unique specialties including prenatal massage, cranial sacral therapy, cupping, Mayan Abdominal massage, and more!

At Synergy, we also accept most major insurances for acupuncture treatments and mental health counseling.

For more information visit us on Facebook, Instagram or our website. We are grateful for you!

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PEOPLE

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 13, 2020 • 19

Musician friends meet for ‘Uke-a-Rama’ R E GIO N By Ed Karvoski Jr. Culture Editor

A

group of friends from several communities enjoy playing ukulele together. The group is known as Uke-A-Rama Llama Ding Dong Day Y’all. As a pandemic safety measure, their weekly meetings moved outdoors to Dean Park in Shrewsbury. playing the ukulele isn’t strenuous – unless you play the way I do. I like to really get into it and give the uke some hard strums.”

Ayotte’s interest in the ukulele was sparked a few years ago when he played harmonica in the now-disbanded group called Grade “A” Fancy with bandmate Rich Leufstedt. A self-described “ukaholic,”

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Leufstedt leads the Union Ukulele Club in Worcester. Ayotte attended a couple of the club’s meetings.

“They were pretty far ad-

vanced, and at the time, I was too green,” he recounted. “I couldn’t keep up with them, so I went home and started practicing.”

Uke-a-Rama | 23

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Marty Ayotte of Worcester united these musicians, who hail from Berlin, Holden, Northborough, Oxford, Shrewsbury and Stow. In addition to sharing musical interests, they’re all within the same age range.

“We’re all retired,” Ayotte noted. “Seniors are always looking for something to do that’s not too strenuous and

In 2018, Ayotte’s practice time became weekly ukulele meetings at his Worcester home with his friends Anna Connors of Shrewsbury, and Oxford residents Russ Garre and Bill Swift. Each of these friends hadn’t played ukulele before joining the group.

“We’d giggle at each other’s imperfections,” Ayotte acknowledged. “We kept playing and we started sounding better. When you sit down and play music with somebody, you connect with them on a plain that you don’t even know you’re on. The rhythm of the music and biorhythms of your body all connect.”

The attendance of ukulele players steadily grew, averaging from four to 10 per week.

They continued meeting at Ayotte’s home until the pan-

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PEOPLE

Hudson’s Tom Moses reflects on long career in public service H U DS O N By Dakota Antelman Contributing Writer

O

n the eve of his retirement, Hudson Executive Assistant Tom Moses is looking back on a nearly 30-year career in public service.

From Cambridge to Lowell to Hudson, Moses has worked in a variety of administrative roles in five different municipal governments since 1992. Along the way, he said he’s found joy and affirmation in the combined strength of the cities and towns he’s helped lead.

“I really appreciate the extraordinary ability of the community to come together and to work together,” he said.

Moses grew up in upstate New York before attending the University of Pennsylvania.

Upon graduation, he headed west, to California, where he earned a master’s degree and began work at the lone private sector job still on his resume.

Moses spent seven years working at Prometheus Development, a real estate company, before migrating back to the East Coast to be with his family and to dive into local government.

He obtained a job as the assistant finance director for Cambridge, then bounced for roughly 10 years between positions in Gloucester and Groveland.

Next, he spent seven years as Lowell’s chief finance officer, only leaving for a job in Hudson, where he’s worked since December 2013.

“Public service has an impact on everybody’s life,” Moses said. “You can work in the

Tom Moses

private sector on a project that will make the company money and benefit the customers.

But the actual impact is very indirect.”

Moses’ time in Hudson, and those impacts he’s had, have, indeed, been wide ranging.

Primarily, he arrived in town and helped stay the course amid an economic upswing. The Main Street area

enjoyed a dining boom on the back of prominent restaurants like Rail Trail Flatbread and Medusa Brewing Co., which both opened in the early to mid2010s.

“It started well before I got h e re ,” M o s e s said. “But the ability for the downtown merchants to work to ge t h e r wa s

amazing.”

From prosperity to trouble, Moses also recalls the challenge posed by the PFAS chemical contamination of Hudson’s water supply.

A long crisis with many ripples, contamination prompted an at times frantic and drastic overhaul of town infrastructure and filtration machinery all aimed at getting things

back to normal.

Moses said the response to that issue remains one of his proudest moments.

“To be able to pull it off and to be able to - basically a year from when the problem was discovered - turn on water with zero PFAS was pretty extraordinary,” he said.

His resignation submitted to the Board of Selectmen, Moses will stay on in his executive assistant capacity through May. “Your financial management skills are obvious to everyone,” Selectman Joe Durrant told Moses at a Sept. 14 meeting. “Your people skills are equally obvious. You’ve done a wonderful job for the town.”

Moses, in turn, deflected praise back to the community, and reiterated that he’ll remain hard at work, especially tackling the new challenges of COVID-19.

“I want to continue to support the town in its efforts to navigate its way through the pandemic,” he said.

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 13, 2020 • 21

COMMUNITY | Sports Sherwood and Oak middle schools named Special Olympics champion schools Members of the 2019-2020 Sherwood and Oak middle schools’ Unified Basketball Team

By Melanie Petrucci Senior Community Reporter SHREWSBURY - Last year, the Sherwood and Oak middle schools teamed up and formed a Unified Basketball team. They were scheduled to play their first game March 12, about the same time schools closed due to the coronavirus.

The game did not go on as planned, even though a pep rally had been planned and students wore Shrewsbury colors blue and gold in preparation for the game. Despite that disappointment, however, because of

the efforts of the students, their peer partners and the coaches, the schools were recently designated as Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools.

Unified sports pair special needs students with peer mentors. The goal is to build a community of inclusion.

Sherwood Middle School Principal Jonathan Kelly was involved in a similar program as an assistant principal in Grafton, prior to coming to Shrewsbury. He said the reason he is such a strong advocate of the program is “seeing students being transformed just by having

conversations [with their peer partners] and … seeing how happy and positive they are.”

Kelly credited Assistant Superintendent Meg Belsito for helping to get the program up and running. She was instrumental in establishing the Unified Team at Shrewsbury High School which has been hugely successful and was awarded the same designation in the fall of 2019.

“I know it is something that the district had been talking about for a few years,” Kelly said. “Part of their vision under Meg Belsito was to not

only get it started at the high school but to look for ways to get programs like that started at the lower levels.”

While games are still on hold, Kelly is hoping to get the season under way as soon as

it is safe.

“I talk to the kids all the time here about one of our core values which is respect,” he remarked. “It’s about being kind to everybody regardless of their skin colors and their abilities.”

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The organizers “fully expect to be back in December 2021 celebrating the 54th anniversary of the Ski Swap!” If you are cleaning out your garage or basement and have ski equipment that is still current and in good working order, they are accepting donations. To do so, visit www.explorerpost85.com.

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22 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 13, 2020

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emember going to a party, enjoying passed hors d’oeuvres, and having to say no to one particularly dreadful dish? For me COVID is the dish we keep passing. Nobody wants it, some try it, and then what do you do with a mouthful you really do not want?

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Well, the COVID numbers are rising. Thanksgiving plans around the country are being adjusted. Turkey pot pie may be the order of the day for some, with the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade “reimagined” largely as a made for TV event (reducing the number of participants to 25%, having specialty vehicles hold down the balloons, etc.)

Still some people need to buy and sell homes during this time. Historically low interest rates and low inventory levels continue creating a bit of a feeding frenzy in the market.

I thought COVID would bring things to a halt in March and I was wrong.

To allow this to happen safely Realtors® have stepped up with an increase in virtual tours on listings where a buyer can literally walk through a home from their couch before seeing a house. My firm asks buyers to affirmatively declare they have no fever or lower respiratory tract symptoms, have not traveled outside MA unless to a lower risk state, and have not knowingly come in direct contact with any person who have COVID-10

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(I’ve paraphrased the full document for space - drop me a note and I will send you the whole document.) You need to wear a mask to view one of our listings, we offer hand sanitizer, and ask people to look and not touch. Some require gloves and booties.

When hosting an open house we limit the number of people in the house using humor (“ we don’t want Governor Baker coming to see us”) and have perfected touch free open house sign in (scan a QR code and fill in the blanks.) For some we are doing virtual open houses (either walking through the virtual tour online or doing a facetime session. We can wipe down high touch areas with a sanitizing wipe.

In a pinch, we can work remotely to stage a house, and help you take pictures.

We can do all signatures online (except the final deed.)

My company now supports deposits online, too, so no checks to move around.

During the spring we sold one house completely online with the buyer only coming through with a masked/ gloved home inspector.

We would love to tell you

these steps will keep you COVID-free and we cannot.

My COVID-era tag line is “stay sanitized,” and while we can offer hand sanitizer, I would not have a clue how to sanitize an entire house. We are doing the best we can as an industry and let us just say we are doing better than some college parties.

We have some clients simply unwilling to assume any risk of getting COVID. We cannot guarantee that; we can tell you the steps we are taking. We do not want to get sick and certainly do not want our clients ill either.

In the end it is a personal decision. For me, I miss the bacon wrapped scallops.

Stay sanitized!

And Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours.

I am not a huge fan of Zillow, etc for buyers. Here is an app for your phone/tablet tied directly to the MLS https://www.homesnap.com/ Gary-Kelley Gary is heard on WCRN AM 830 discussing “All Things Real Estate.”

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 13, 2020 • 23

COMMUNITY | Schools Art teacher receives Peggy Tuttle Award SOUTHBOROUGH – Southborough teacher Denise Johnson was named this year’s recipient of the sixth annual Peggy Tuttle Award for Library Service Distinction.

Johnson is an art teacher at the Margaret A. Neary School, helping to coordinate seasonal exhibits at the Southborough Library of student artwork in dedicated display case downstairs.

Her revolving exhibits, started in 2015, have helped to bring students into the library to see their work on display. She also serves as a member of the Southborough Cultural Denise Johnson Arts Council, through which she helped to coordinate the “Beyond the Art Classroom” exhibit at the Southborough Library in May 2019.

In both roles, she helped to successfully co-

ordinate “Art in Bloom” at the Southborough Library in April 2018 where she worked with students from Neary, P. Brent Trottier Middle School, and representatives from the Southborough Gardeners. Johnson’s dedication to and love of art across all mediums has helped to transform the library space as an inventive and creative hub for the local Southborough community.

The Peggy Tuttle Award for Library Service Distinction is an annual award given out by the Southborough Library director in honor of Peggy Tuttle, a long-term and beloved staff member at the Southborough Library. The award, typically given out at the Southborough Annual Town Meeting, was delayed this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Westborough Civic Club donates six $1,000 scholarships WESTBOROUGH -The Westborough Civic Club granted six of the town’s graduating students $1,000 scholarships for their continuing education this fall. The 2020 recipients were Westborough High School graduates Romi Zebian, Alexander Badger, Andrew O’Keefe, Adam Dapolite and Patrick O’Neil, along with Richard Ryan who graduated from Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School. The recipients were selected by their school’s nominating committee on the basis of the student demonstrating a healthy interest in civic affairs, displaying good citizenship, and having a record of community service and fellowship in the community as demonstrated during their high school career.

The Civic Club continues to be able to fund these scholarships through proceeds from their annual Tree, Wreath, and Roping Sale held each year daily between Thanksgiving and Christmas. This year’s sale will begin Saturday, Nov. 28 at the Elsie A. Hastings Elementary School, 111 East Main St., Westborough. Fourteen hundred Balsam Fir trees and 400 wreaths from Nova Scotia make this fundraiser an annual favorite in the area. The club is making plans to provide a safe tree shopping experience for all; in line with town guidance this year, they will require masks and social distancing at all times.

The Civic Club donates proceeds from the sale to many worthy causes in the community and is seeking additional members to join and help. More information on the Civic Club may be found on Facebook @WestboroughCivicClub, at www.westborocivicclub.org or by email at info@westborocivicclub.com.

IT’S NEVER TOO EARLY…

Musician friends meet for ‘Uke-a-Rama Llama Ding Dong Day Y’all’

It’s Only Too Late!

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Uke-a-Rama | from page 19

ganization. She’s a go-getter.”

On one Thursday with demic stay-at-home advisory weather forecasts for raintook effect in March. storms, the group sought shelMeetings moved outdoors ter at Auburn Mall’s parking Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., garage.

It wasn’t quite the weather permitting, from same serene environment as midsummer through fall at Dean Park, Ayotte noted. the Dean Park bandstand in “In the garage, it was wicked Shrewsbury. From the start of noisy with the traffic, horns their outdoor meetings, Ayotte and sirens,” he recalled. “Dean decorated the bandstand with Park has a beautiful breeze that festive banners. goes through there almost all “There’s plenty of room on the time.” the stage, so it’s easy to keep a These ukulele-playing distance between each other,” friends appreciate their soothhe explained. ing get-togethers amid the Ayotte is grateful that Anna sometimes stressful pandemic.

Connors recommended Dean “Ukulele people don’t have Park for an outdoor meeting Newstreak Record GOLD Ata mean in theirHigh! bodies,” place. Around the same time, Ayotte declared.

“Everybody she began rehearsing there who plays ukulele laidback moveislogo to with a belly-dance troupeAtofthe bottom and calm.

That’s the kind of seniors known as Silver Moon the leftTo rightwhen of the logo vibe the we have we get Gypsies. Connors also suggestplease together.” put in bullets :We buy ed the ukulele group’s name: Anyone who is able to help Uke-a-Rama Llama Ding Dong Gold & Silver provide the group an indoor Day Y’all. wintertime meetingcallsWe place large Available for house “Anna is like a ball of fire,” enough for social distancing, Ayotte commented. “I might purchase Add: can estates4) email them at martyayohave started putting the group tte@gmail.com.

9:30 -3 Sat. until 2 together, but I give AnnaHours so For more photos, visit fiftymuch credit. She’s a great perplusadvocate.com. son to have in your social or-

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24 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 13, 2020

COMMUNITY | Schools

Melican Middle School’s Halloween fun benefits food pantry

By Liz Nolan Contributing Writer

PHOTO/MARY ELLEN DUGGAN

NORTHBOROUGH- Robert E. Melican Middle School’s Halloween celebration served two purposes – it generated a lot of school spirit and raised money for the Northborough Food Pantry.

Principal Michelle Karb said that faculty, staff, bus drivers and students were invited to dress up on the two days before Halloween weekend to include students in both cohorts in the hybrid learning model.

“We have not dressed up for Halloween at the middle school for over 20 years!” said Karb.

“We hoped to generate some school spirit and pair the event with collecting donations for the Northborough Food Pantry.

We know food insecurity has been significant during the pandemic.”

The idea was generated by Karb and Assistant Principal Jen Callahan.

Food pantry staff receive the donation from Melican administration and students. (l to r) Food Pantry Director Karen Scopetski, Ben Fox, Lily Maletta, Garrett Willwerth, Melican Middle Assistant Principal Jen Callaghan, Juliana Loizeaux, Jessica Valentine, Food Pantry Director Vickie Killeen, Rachael Swallow, Melican Middle School Principal Michelle Karb and Sam Guimaraes

“We appreciate the hard work of the Food Pantry and we understand how food insecurity impacts many of our students, so this seemed like a good match,” said Karb.

Staff and students were excited that a total of $500 was collected.

Spirit events, like the Halloween event, bring some normalcy back to a school year that is

anything but normal.

“We wanted to do one this year connected to Halloween to generate some school spirit and to give back to the wonderful community in a very concrete

way,” said Karb.

Future spirit days may include a pajama day in December to raise money for gifts for families in need, and another event in November to raise more money for the food pantry.

Northborough Food Pantry Directors Vickie Killeen and Karen Scopetski are grateful for the donation, which will be used to help purchase food for the 7580 families helped each week.

“The people in Northborough have been so very generous with donating money and dropping off food items during such difficult times,” said Killeen. “We are truly blessed to have such amazing people here in Northborough who continue such great work to keep this pantry fully stocked with their caring generosity.”

The Northborough Food Pantry is run by volunteers.

View the website for additional information or to make a donations on line at www.nfpantry. org.

Shrewsbury High School student petitions for school mascot name change

By Melanie Petrucci Senior Community Reporter SHREWSBURY – A Shrewsbury High School (SHS) student has asked the School Committee to consider changing its mascot’s name.

Chair Sandra Fryc told the Committee at its Nov. 4 meeting that Louisa Scott, a junior at SHS, has asked that the mascot’s name be changed from the Colonial.

“The petition raises concerns about the negative connotations that may apply to some in the

individual & small business taxation

community,” Fryc noted.

She said that she, along with fellow committee member Jon Wensky, School Superintendent Dr. Joseph Sawyer, Principal Todd Bazydlo, Athletic Director Jay Costa met with Louisa and several other students on Oct. 28.

“We wanted to hear directly from them what their thoughts were, where they thought this should go, what tasks they were looking for the School Committee to take,” she continued.

“After discussing this further with Dr. Sawyer I’ve tasked

Strategic Year-end tax Planning

Shrewsbury High School’s current logo, the Colonial

him with creating a ‘Mascot Ad Hoc Study Group’ and they will be charged with reviewing the petition, studying the history of the Mascot use for SHS and how the term has been defined historically…”

The group will also solicit public feedback regarding how the mascot is perceived presently and consider the pros and the cons, logistics and financial impacts of changing the name.

The group will then present their recommendations to the School Committee whether to change the mascot’s name. It

will consist of three SHS student representatives, three SHS faculty, three SHS parents, three SHS alumni and three SHS administrators including Bazydlo and Costa.

The timeline is to have the group formed by the end of November, and start to meet in December with recommendations made to the School Committee no later to March 21, 2021.

Sawyer said that he looked forward to working with the group and to study the issue and look at it from a variety of perspectives.

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Obituaries Edward T. McCabe Jr., 76 WESTBOROUGH - Edward Thomas “Thom” McCabe Jr., 76, of Westborough, passed away Oct. 30, 2020 at the UMass Memorial Healthcare-Memorial Hospital in Worcester. He was the husband of Judith K. (Schlott) McCabe, with whom he was happily married for 54 years.

In addition to his wife he is survived by one son, Sean K. McCabe and his wife Eliana of Westborough; one daughter, Tara A. McCabe of Key West, Fla.; seven grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. He was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather.

At this time services and burial in St. Luke’s Cemetery will be private. The Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home is assisting.

Marilyn J. Doyle, 87 NORTHBOROUGH - Marilyn J. (Hart) Doyle, a longtime resident of Northborough, passed away peacefully Oct. 27, 2020 at the UMass-Memorial Medical Center’s University Campus. She was 87 years old.

She was the devoted wife of 59 years to the late John “Jack” C. Doyle until his passing in 2014.

Among those who survive her are her five children, John Doyle and his wife Delia of Holden, Philip Doyle and his wife Mary of Takoma Park, Md., Pamela Russo and her husband Steven of Weymouth, Kenneth Doyle and his wife Jodi of Millis, and Mark Doyle and his wife Barbara of New Salem; 12 grandchildren, Mike Caldwell, Christopher Caldwell, Joseph Doyle, Thomas Doyle, Sarah Russo, Steven Russo Jr., Rebecca Russo, Zachary Tashjian, Abigail Doyle, Cameron Doyle, Julia Doyle, and Ian Doyle; and seven great-grandchildren, Aiden, Mia, Drake, A.J., Evan,

Adeline and Theodora, all whom she adored. Marilyn is also survived by four siblings, Thomas Hart and his wife Rosemarie of Waltham, Norman Hart and his wife Kim of Bedford, Pauline Larson of Brockton, and Virginia (Ginger) Simpson of Sandwich; five in-laws, Linette Hart of Maryland, Bernard Chiasson and Clare Craig both of Florida, MaryAnn Hart of Framingham, and Donald and Nancy Doyle of Woburn, as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her two brothers, Donald Hart and Larry Hart, and three sisters, Arlene Chaisson, Barbara Thomas, and Patricia MacDonald.

Due to the global concern of Covid-19, Marilyn’s funeral and burial will be private for the immediate family. Arrangements are entrusted to Hays Funeral Home of Northborough.

Virginia G. Engvall, 90 WORCESTER - Virginia G. (Hand) Engvall, 90, of Worcester, passed away Oct. 23, 2020 at Hermitage Healthcare.

Her husband, Gene A. Engvall, predeceased her in December 1992.

Virginia is survived by a daughter, Gail S. Gerolomo and her husband John of Rutland; two sons, Gary A. Engvall and his wife Margaret of Cranston, R.I. and Gregory M. Engvall and his wife Bernadette of Auburn; four grandchildren; and nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by a sister, Iva Doherty.

A memorial service for Virginia was held Nov. 7 at the Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel of Worcester.

Leonard A. Lekstrom Jr., 74 MARLBOROUGH - On Nov. 4, 2020, Leonard A. Lekstrom Jr. passed away at age 74 in Worcester of COVID-19. Beloved brother of Cecile Lekstrom, Judy (LaDrew) Lek-

strom and Barbara Lekstrom, Leonard lived most of his life in the Marlborough area. His late parents were Leonard and Jessie (“Scottie”) Lekstrom, also of Marlborough.

Mentally handicapped from birth, Leonard spent much of his life in institutions. This was an ongoing cause of frustration for Len, but over the years he matured and achieved a sense of acceptance that brought him inner peace.

Oldies music, bicycling and family were the three anchors of Len’s life. In particular, he idolized Paul Anka. Because Len could not drive, he bicycled everywhere, on one occasion pedaling 72 miles in a day.

Always gregarious, Len made many friends, but family was his bedrock. Len learned honesty from his mother and generosity from his dad, and never forsook those virtues.

Due to the current risks of COVID, burial will be held at a later date. Short & Rowe Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.

William F. McLoughlin, 86 WESTBOROUGH - William F. “Mac or Bill” McLoughlin, 86, o f We s t borough, p a s s e d away Oct. 30, 2020 at UMass Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. His wife of 47 years, Elizabeth “Mitzi” McLoughin, died in 2007.

He leaves three sons, William McLoughlin Jr. and Thomas McLoughlin, both of Westborough, and Sean McLoughlin of Rutland; three daughters, Susan Jewers of Northborough, and Margaret McLoughlin and Erin McLoughlin, both of Shrewsbury; eight grandchildren, Bobby, Trevor, Courtney, Sean J., Dariyn, Braden, Kaleigh, and Finnigan; seven great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a brother, John J. McLoughlin, and a sister, Joan Santy.

His funeral Mass was celebrated Nov. 6 at St. Luke the Evangelist Church of Westbor-

ough, followed by burial with military honors at St. Luke’s Cemetery. Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.

Elizabeth Bonaventura, 91 SHREWSBURY - Elizabeth “Betty” Bonaventura, 91, of Shrewsbury, passed away peacefully Oct. 21, 2020 at UMass Memorial Hospital, surrounded by her family, after a brief illness. Born in Trenton, N.J., she was the daughter of the late Paul and Elizabeth (Dostal) Hanuschik.

Betty and her husband, Frank Bonaventura, enjoyed 67 years of marriage together and raised three sons whom she leaves behind, Frank, Kevin, and Anthony and his longtime partner Judie Morin. She also leaves three sisters, Anna Vosila, Dorothy Zytack, and Ellen Hamilton and her husband Richard. She also leaves two grandchildren, Paul Bonaventura and his wife Jen and Jenna Damon and her husband Spencer, and one great-grandchild, Olivia, along with many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brother, Paul and his wife Joyce; her sister-in-law, Theresa and her husband Ronnie Hebert; and a sister-in-law, Francis Ann. Calling hours and a service for Betty were held Nov. 4 at the Mercadante Funeral home & Chapel of Worcester. Burial will be at St. Mary’s Cemetery Uxbridge at a later date.

Edimar R. Brito, 64 SHREWSBURY - Edimar R. B r i to, 6 4 , of Shrewsbury, passed away peacefully Oct. 2 9, 2 0 2 0, surrounded by his loving family, at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston.

Edimar was born in Ataleia, MG, Brazil, to Pedro and Anita (Rocha) Brito.

Edimar is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Magnolia Brito; his children, Pedro Brito and Marielle Brito; his daughter-in-law, Jamie Brito; and his grandchildren, Salyssa, Anthony and Nicolas, as well as many other, loving family members and friends both in the U.S. and Brazil.

Visiting hours were held Nov. 5 at the Chiampa Funeral Home of Shrewsbury.

Nessie A. Guzzetti, 88 GRAFTON - Nessie A. (Adams) Guzzetti, 88, passed away Nov. 3, 2020 at Care One in Millbury following an illness. Her husband, James R. Guzzetti, predeceased her.

She leaves her children, James J. Guzzetti and his wife Kathryn, Brenda M. Guzzetti and Daniel J. Guzzetti; her grandchildren, James J. Guzzetti, Tim Guzzetti and his wife Donna, Jesse Guzzetti and his wife Kathryn, Jamie Guzzetti, Daniel J. Guzzetti, Jr., Jaycee Guzzetti and Sarah Guzzetti; and her greatgrandchildren, James, Eddie, Dominic, Aiden, Saige, Angelina, Anthony, Justin, Taylor, Carter and Chloe. The last of her siblings, she was also predeceased by her brothers and sisters, Alice Normant, Jean McMahon, John Adams, Edward Adams, and Kastan Adams.

A gathering with Nessie’s family and friends was held Nov. 6 at Roney Funeral Home of North Grafton. Funeral services and burial are private at her family’s convenience.

Pearl E. Unis, 102 HUDSON - Pearl E. Unis, 102, passed away peacefully Nov. 2, 2020 with her loving family by her side. Pearl was predeceased by her husband of 63 years, John Unis.

She is survived by her two daughters, Janet Moriarty and her husband Nicholas of Olney, Md. and Jacquelyn Lavoie and her husband George of ShrewsObituaries | 26

26 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, November 13, 2020

POLICE LOG The information in the police log is obtained directly from the official records maintained at each police station in our circulation area.

Those arrested are innocent until proven guilty. The Community Advocate will publish news of acquittals upon notification and a copy of court issued documentation.

Northborough

Sunday, Oct. 25 1:26 a.m. Arrested, Jeffrey R. Shea, 52, of 23 Summer St., Northborough, on warrant.

Thursday, Oct. 29 12:30 a.m. Arrested, Nicole F. Willis, 37, of 23 Atwood Ln., Shrewsbury, for breakdown lane violation, fail to wear seat belt, negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08%, marked lanes violation.

Hudson

Tuesday, Oct. 27 11:36 p.m. Arrested, Jonathan M. Wolfe, 36, of 125 Forest Ave., Hudson, for OUI-liquor or .08%, marked lanes violation.

Southborough

Saturday, Oct. 24 12:45 a.m. Arrested, Joseph Daniel Sullivan, of Wyeth Cir., Southborough, for OUI-liquor

“ATROCIOUS TUNES”

or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, marked lanes violation. property damage only.

Marlborough

Saturday, Oct. 31 8:02 p.m. Arrested, Jerome David Burton, 23, of 79 Framingham Rd., Marlborough, for trespass, disorderly conduct, threat to commit crime.

Monday, Nov. 2 10:29 a.m. Arrested, Rocky J. Phelps, 37, of 265 Lakeside

Obituaries Obituaries | from page 25

bury; four grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren, along with several loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Her six brothers, two sisters, and a grandson, James Moriarty, all predeceased her.

Pearl was born in Marlborough, the daughter of the late Adolph and Eva (Bertrand) Lizotte. Pearl married John and they moved to Hudson, where they raised their family and where she went to work as a medical secretary for many years, working for many doctors in the area.

Ave., Apt. 410, Worcester, on warrant.

10:08 p.m. Arrested, Joseph Alan Duval, 39, of 8C Bayberry Rd., New Bedford, for disorderly conduct, resist arrest, disturbing the peace.

Thursday, Nov. 5 10:16 a.m. Arrested, Reed Ume-Ezeoke, 27, of 38 Briarwood Ln., Apt. 12, Marlborough, for speeding/rate of speed exceeding posted limit, op MV with license suspended, registration not in possession, no inspection sticker.

She and John loved the beach and bought a cottage in Hampton Beach, N.H., where she would spend every weekend in the summers with her family and friends. Pearl loved going to the casinos and loved to play Bingo. She will be missed dearly by all those who knew and loved her.

Visiting hours were held Nov. 12 at the Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson, followed by her Mass of Christian Burial at St. Michael Parish and burial at St. Michael Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Pearl’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Westborough

Thursday, Oct. 29 4:06 a.m. Arrested, Joni Baby Holley, 34, of 208 West Main St., Apt. A, E Millbury, for possess Class B drug, possess to distribute cocaine.

Friday, Oct. 30 6:25 p.m. Arrested, Walter W. Aldrich III, 58, of 2 Canfield St., Westborough, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle.

Sunday, Nov. 1 9:47 p.m. Arrested, Eliza-

beth Johannah Larose, 35, of 1395 Main St., Apt. 1, Worcester, for A&B with dangerous weapon, and Amanda Helena Bright, 30, of 35 Northampton St., Apt. 903, Boston, on warrant.

Grafton

Friday, Oct. 30 6:28 p.m. Arrested, Garret Crank, 28, of 59 Londonderry Rd., Grafton, for OUI-liquor or .08%, unlicensed operation of MV.

The Community Advocate will post obituaries online (and in print, as space allows) at no charge as a courtesy to our readers. 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).

Bonaventura, Elizabeth of Shrewsbury Brito, Edimar of Shrewsbury Doyle, Marilyn of Northborough Engvall, Virginia formerly of Shrewsbury Guzzetti, Nessie of Grafton Lekstrom Jr., Leonard of Marlborough McCabe Jr., Edward of Westborough McLoughlin, William of Westborough Unis, Pearl of Hudson

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