CA 230721

Transfer station could remain open to residents

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – Are you looking for a laugh?

On Aug. 5-6 and 12-13, the Square One Players will be performing “Spamalot” at Southgate’s Flanagan Theater in Shrewsbury.

The group encourages everyone to attend.

Inspired by the classic comedy film “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” Spamalot features lines of beautiful dancing girls, flatulent Frenchmen and killer rabbits. As King Arthur searches for the holy grail, he meets several characters you’ll need to see to believe.

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – The transfer station could still be available to residents, with conditions.

Seven months after informing the town that it would shut down residential access to its transfer station, Harvey’s/Waste Connections recently told the town it was willing to keep the site accessible.

“We were surprised by that,” said Town Manager Kristi Williams, who is a liaison to the Waste Management Exploratory Committee. “We’re now able to focus on the charge of the committee as it was created several months ago without that June 30, 2024, end date.”

The station was scheduled to be closed to residents on June 30, 2024. However, the town is discussing possible conditions with

Patrons will be close to the action. The roughly 150-seat Flanagan Theater creates an intimate atmosphere that only accentuates the performance.

“This place has limitations. It’s a small stage and a small backstage,” said Joanne Smith, one of three people who own and operate Square One Players. “Spamalot is a very large under-

Deed for Old Town Hall signed

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH – The Select Board recently accepted and signed the deed for the Old Town Hall.

During the 2022 Annual Town Meeting, voters decided to appropriate $10,000 to ac-

quire the property at 4 West Main Street. The town had sold the Old Town Hall property in 1983, but it had the option to repurchase the building after 40 years.

During the Select Board’s June 26 meeting, Chair Mitch Cohen said the board had walked through the property several weeks prior.

PHOTO/MAUREEN SULIIVAN

Shrewsbury Police Youth Academy graduates first class of student officers

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – In front of an Oak Middle School auditorium filled with friends and family, dozens of seventh- and eighthgrade students became the first graduates of the Shrewsbury Police Youth Academy on July 14.

The week-long academy, run by the Shrewsbury Police Department, gave dozens of “student officers” an intensive look at all facets of policing. Fifteen full-time police officers guided the participants through “vigorous physical conditioning, hours of classroom teaching,” and different character building exercises.

Not all activities were pleasant, but not one student dropped out of the program.

“Today is a really great day,” said Officer Alicia Brownell, the academy director who coordinated the program. “It’s the day we get to recognize all

the hard work and dedication our student officers put in throughout the week. By no means did the drill staff make this week easy on anybody.”

Student officers participated in numerous activities during their week at the academy.

As part of their training, students learned about constitutional law, crime scene processing, and handcuffing techniques. The participants had the opportunity

to tour the police station, ride the marine boat, earn CPR certification, and watch a taser demonstration.

Other activities included learning how to properly march and salute, using LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) to track the speed of cars on Maple Avenue, working with Marlborough canine officer Mieko and using the state-of-the-art MILO (Multiple Interactive Learning Objectives) firearm tracking system.

On July 13, youth officers went outside and tried on visual impairment goggles meant to emulate inebriation. Students attempted to pedal around obstacles with the goggles, but couldn’t navigate without plowing into traffic cones. The goggled students

didn’t perform too well on the field sobriety tests either.

Over the course of the academy, students were taught three core values: respect, integrity, and discipline.

“They not only got stronger, but you can see the change in all the student officers – especially when it comes to the embodiment of our core values,” Brownell said.

“Our student officers have educated us with their resilience, drive, sharp intellects, and insightful questions,” Police Chief Kevin Anderson added. “I’d like to commend each and every [student officer] for [their] dedication.”

Anderson first sought to institute an academy for younger students when he interviewed to be police chief.

“At the onset of my tenure as chief, I envisioned an academy of this nature as an impactful way to connect with the youth in the community we serve and

build long-lasting relationships with the student officers and their families,” he said at the graduation ceremony.

The program, which was inspired by the Marlborough Police Department’s annual youth academy, was initially delayed because of the COVID-19 pandemic, but went forward this year after extensive planning.

“I’d like to thank the academy staff, the student officers, the families, and the local community for making this Shrewsbury Police Youth Academy an absolute success,” Anderson said.

Although this group was the first to graduate from the youth academy, they won’t be the last. The police department will welcome another cohort of students at the start of August. The new students will be high-school-aged, and will round out the first year of the program.

The student officers stand on stage during the graduation ceremony.

PHOTO/EVAN WALSH

OVER TOP THE

SHREWSBURY – Boats pass under the Kenneth F. Burns Memorial Bridge late last week. After a weekend of storms, boaters enjoyed a week of weather in the 80s forecasted for this week. However, the Lake Quinsigamond Commission has issued a no wake order for both Lake Quinsigamond and Flint Pond in light of high water conditions.

REGION – Free sunscreen dispensers are coming to parks and fields across the region.

Northborough is partnering with IMPACT Melanoma, which is a nonprofit dedicated to skin cancer prevention and education.

In Northborough, the town has installed four sunscreen dispensers at Assabet Park and Ellsworth McAfee Park using funding from Be Well Northborough. The dispensers will be filled with all-natural SPH 30 broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen.

The dispensers will be maintained by the Junior Woman’s Club.

Founding member of the Junior Woman’s Club Vickie Killeen and her daughter, Kelly, have experience with melanoma.

They advocated the importance of regular skin screenings to catch cancer early.

The project was coordinated by Northborough Health

Director Kristin Black and Regional Epidemiologist with the Greater Boroughs Partnership for Health Isabella Caruso.

There will also be dispensers in Westborough and Southborough through the Greater Boroughs Partnership for Health collaborative.

In Southborough, the recreation and health departments partnered and announced a grant of $4,100 from the MetroWest Health Foundation.

The grant will go toward melanoma prevention. The sunscreen dispensers will be installed at Fayville Park and playground, Woodward school/Choate baseball field, Neary/Richardson tennis courts, Neary fields, Mooney/ Finn school tennis and pickleball courts and Mooney/Finn school fields.

The IMPACT Melanoma dispensers will be installed this month.

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Mixology

Mixology is the creative and scientific process of combining liquor with different ingredients to assemble cocktails that are visually appealing and delicious to drink. Professional mixologists have had training and use their knowledge of different types of spirits, liqueurs, and other ingredients to expand upon current cocktail trends. Following a cocktail recipe is not difficult when using proper bar equipment including a shaker, strainer, muddler, jigger, and appropriate glassware. With a little bit of imagination, one can use seasonal fruits and juices to add a bit of flair to standard recipes. Try muddling some fresh strawberries in with the fresh mint when making a Mojito or substitute vodka for the usual rum. Get mixing to impress friends and family!

Some consider mixology an art form, and there are responsibilities that make being a mixologist more than a standard bartender. Mixologists care about the guest experience and enjoy experimenting with techniques and flavors to design memorable cocktails. They often create seasonal menus or signature drinks specific to an event. For more information, please call JULIO’S LIQUORS at 508-366-1942, or visit at 140 Turnpike Rd., Rt. 9 East HINT: Concoct low-calorie cocktails by adding fresh fruit rather than flavored syrups and selecting unsweetened fruit juices instead of sweetened ones.

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PHOTO/TAMI WHITE

Survey responses call for restaurant for golf club

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – More than 1,500 people responded to a survey conducted by the Golf Club Building Use Committee. Respondents to the survey said they want a restaurant that is open to the public and has a mix of full-service and quick service like grab and go. The respondents also said they would like outdoor dining and venue space for functions and meetings.

About half of the 1,500 responses want the golf club building to be renovated, while the other half want the building to be torn down and have a new building constructed.

During the July 12 meeting, committee member and golf pro Matt Griffith said changes need to be made to the pro shop area.

“The shop is dated,” he said. “We have 30-year-old shelves and walls.”

Griffith added that the lockers and showers could also be

removed, citing lack of use.

Committee members also discussed adding golf simulators.

“We have 7,000 square feet of footprint,” said Griffith. “We have a lot of options for that space.”

Committee members also

discussed possible next steps, especially the future of the building. They plan to invite Department of Public Works Director Chris Payant to their next meeting to discuss renovation of the building versus its replacement.

With either option, the

building and deck would have to meet Americans with Disabilities Act requirements, said Ian Johnson, who is the Select Board’s representative to the committee.

Timing is also an issue — committee members would like to have the deck open next

year and offer more food options such as food trucks.

Toward that end, the committee plans to present some recommendations to the Select Board.

The committee will meet next on Wednesday, Aug. 9, at 6:30 p.m.

Signs for the Civic restaurant have been removed from the Westborough Golf Club on West Main Street. Respondents to a survey said they want another restaurant in that space.

During a recent tour of the former Civic Kitchen and Drink in April, there were still chairs surrounding the restaurant’s fireplace.

PHOTOS/MAUREEN SULLIVAN

for Old Northborough Town Hall signed

“What the town will do with it later will be determined. We don’t have any use for it, but … we can’t wait longer to purchase it back because the 40 years runs out,” said Cohen. According to a 2006 Telegram & Gazette article, the building served as Northborough’s Town Hall from 1868 to 1978. In the 1980s, Town Meeting voters allowed a developer to purchase the building under the condition that it was renovated.

The building burned to the ground in 1985 during the renovation.

According to Interim Town Administrator Bob Reed, there have been conversations regarding easements.

“Counsel feels that all those questions have been answered. Easements that have been granted by the property owner will go away with the transaction,” Reed said.

Parking has been a concern of some Select Board members, he said.

“There have been some concerns that parking, whether it’s through easements or agreements, were related to this transaction. They’re not,” Reed said.

He said the property owner was interested in maintaining or having access to some parking spaces in the lot across from Blake Street. Reed added that he hadn’t had “definitive” discussions with the property owner, and said it may be a conversation among the Select Board on how that parking lot will be used.

Reed said he wasn’t aware of an agreement that guaranteed the businesses or property owner would have rights to any of the parking lot.

According to Cohen, Select Board member Lisa Maselli, Reed and Northborough’s counsel have done research. That research indicated that in 1985 there was an easement granted by the town to the property owner, tied to the building, that gave them use of the parking area, Cohen said.

Attorneys for the town and property owner have agreed that that easement will no longer exist, Cohen said.

“I think the parking there is really unrelated to this transaction tonight,” Reed said. “If

there are going to be additional discussions on that or additional concerns about how it’s used, who would have use for it, those would be discussions outside of the signing of the agreement tonight.”

Once the deed is transferred, the parking lot will be owned by the town, Maselli said, adding that she would like to have lines, trees and signs at the lot and “help to start making the downtown look a little bit more attractive, regardless of whatever happens at 4 West.”

The Old Town Hall stands at 4 West Main Street.

PHOTO/LAURA HAYES

Ken Bennett leads hikes through Northborough

By Tyler Charpentier Contributing Writer

NORTHBOROUGH - Ken Bennett and his group of 10 to 20 walkers take to the trails every Thursday for weekly hikes through Northborough.

Bennett has been hosting these hikes since 2020.

There are two hiking seasons per year: the fall season is held from September through November, and spring season from April into late June.

The hikers usually consist of members of the Northborough Senior Center but all ages are welcome and encouraged to join.

“I think the best benefit of doing these hikes is getting to meet new people. Of course it’s a good form of exercise but it’s also a way to put yourself out there and make new friends,” said Bennett.

Recreation Director Allie Lane has been assisting in promoting Bennett’s hikes through the town’s “Be Well Northbor-

ough” program. Be Well Northborough uses funds from the American Res-

Westborough Office Space

better their mental health after the COVID-19 pandemic.

“If you’re talking about mental health and COVID-19 recovery, hiking is the perfect activity. It gets you outside and gives participants the ability to meet other people. During the COVID-19 pandemic you had to stay away from other people, we’re trying to bring people back together ” said Lane.

Bennett’s two favorite locations are the unnamed trails in the Lester Ross Dam area on Route 62 in Berlin and the McGrail trail. The McGrail trail takes hikers to the McGrail Farm Property located near Horseshoe Pond in Berlin.

This specific trail has a personal connection to Bennett as it borders his childhood home.

cently just visited the McGrail trail as a memorial for Donald Haitsma who died last year.

Haitsma worked and grew up on the McGrail dairy farm with his stepbrother Allen Bezanson when they were both in high school. The two stepbrothers previously picked up milk from Bennett’s father then return to their dairy farm to pasteurize and bottle it. Afterward, they traveled through Marlborough and Northborough to sell their bottles of milk.

The barn on the dairy farm has since been demolished, but the car used to deliver their milk is still parked on the trail.

cue Plan Act and puts them towards encouraging community members to get outside and

On the McGrail trail, the stonewall that divided Bennetts’ property from the farm is still intact. There’s a 25-acre tract of land that he and his family would farm for hay and corn harvests.

Bennett and the hikers re-

Bennett hosted his final hike of this spring season on June 22 at Berbarian’s Farm. The farm’s owner Glen Berbarian gave an in-depth tour and spoke about the history of the farm to the hikers.

Bennett’s upcoming fall season will be starting again this September and he hopes for another successful round of historic hikes.

Participants are asked to meet with Bennett at the Northborough Senior Center at 10 a.m. on Thursdays where they then carpool to the designated trail of that week.

One night I dreamed a dream. I was walking along the beach with my Lord. Across the dark sky flashed scenes of my life. For each scene, I noticed two sets of footprints in the sand, one belonged to me and one to my Lord. When the last scene of my life shot before me I looked back at the footprints in the sand and to my surprise I noticed that many times along the path of my life There was only one set of footprints. I realized that this was at the lowest and saddest times of my life. This always bothered me and I questioned the Lord about my dilemma.

“Lord, you told me when I decided to follow You, You would walk and talk with me all the way. But I’m aware that during the most troublesome times of my life there is only one set of footprints. I just don’t understand why, when I needed You most, You leave me.” He whispered, “My precious child, I love you and will never leave you never, ever, during your trials and testings. When you saw only one set of footprints it was then that I carried you.”

Marlborough to begin annual herbicide program

MARLBOROUGH – The city’s Forestry Division will begin applying herbicides on or around July 26, and the effort will last through November.

The herbicide is used to control weeds and other undesirable vegetation, including poison ivy.

The methods will include hand sprayer, low-pressure hydraulic sprayer and weed seeker.

The city has marked out several “no spray” areas near wetlands and private water supplies.

For more information about the project, including the types of herbicides used, contact Christopher White, general foreman for the city’s Department of Public Works, 135 Neil St.; 508-624-6910, ext. 33601.

Sponsored by Chief Joseph Robert J. Terkanian P.O. Box 808 • Northborough, MA 01532

© 1964 Margaret Fishback Powers

Ken Bennett stands in front of the Northborough Senior Center. Bennett leads weekly hikes throughout town.

PHOTO/TYLER CHARPENTIER

‘Spamalot’ comes to Shrewsbury in August

Spamalot | from page 1

taking for us, but we accept the challenge.”

Full circle

The production features a 15-person cast, intricate costumes and countless elaborate props.

Many of the cast members performed Spamalot together in 2016.

“It’s such a fun and energizing environment to come in and just be able to create with so many different brilliant people in the area,” said James Lamoureux, a veteran of both performances who will be playing Sir Lancelot in this production.

The 2016 Spamalot performance was more than just another show for Lamoureux — it was where he met his future wife, Square One Players coowner and co-operator Tara Lamoureux. Tara Lamoureux is the stage manager for this production.

The show marks the couple’s first performance since getting married last October. Naturally, they wanted to come “full circle” and reprise the production that brought them together: Spamalot.

“I mean I’ve been asking them for years,” Tara Lamoureux said. “We had the most

auditions we’ve ever had before, which was amazing… and we couldn’t have timed it any better.”

“[James and Tara were] the main motivation behind doing Spamalot. It’s very near and dear to both [their] hearts,” Smith said.

In addition to James and Tara Lamoureux, Gary Swanson, April Swanson, Isaac Swanson, Kait Eckstrom-Doig, Nick Doig, and Kevin McGerigle are among the many 2016 performers, producers and directors who are involved this time around.

“It’s amazing how theater is small,” Smith said. “Everybody knows everybody. You make

Transfer station could remain open to residents

Transfer station | from page 1

Harvey’s/Waste Connections in order for it to remain open.

A possibility could include single-stream recycling.

Should an agreement be reached, it should be a more comprehensive, multiyear deal, said Alan Ehrlich, who is the Board of Health’s representative to the committee.

The news comes as the committee continues to meet with local haulers to discuss curbside recycling.

“As recommended by this committee, we were preparing to explore a full curbside program before the announcement,” said Williams.

One point was made clear

— if the town chooses another hauler, the transfer station will be closed to residents.

“If we choose another vendor, the existing transfer station’s no longer an option,” said Shelby Marshall, the Select Board’s representative to the committee.

During its Wednesday, July 12, meeting, the committee also discussed the options of pay-as-you-throw, composting and disposal of bulky items.

There was another bit of good news for the town –Harvey’s/Waste Connections will charge $60 per ton for fiscal 2024, instead of the announced rate of $85/ton.

a lot of friends, and then they know people, and then they know people, and eventually you get to know a very large community of people.”

While the production is to some extent a family-andfriends affair, there are several new faces in the cast. Smith said she “loves the combination” of new and old the group has achieved.

So, what can you expect at

Spamalot?

The cast of “Spamalot” rehearses.

Square One Players’ production opens in August.

“[Come] out and [have] a light, fun night where you can sit back, relax and have fun. It’s a show for that,” Tara Lamoureux said.

“If you’re looking for two hours of nonstop laughter, silliness, and fun — lots of singing, lots of dancing — this is it. Spamalot is it. It’s nonsensical, but it’s fun. Please come join us; we love putting it on, and

we’d love to have you come and join us,” Smith added.

To get tickets and more information on this production of Spamalot, visit www. squareoneplayers.com or call (508) 669-7750.

Tickets for the performance are $20 for general admission and $17 for students and seniors.

PHOTO/EVAN WALSH

Westborough revives Civic Leadership Academy Dinner time at Farmers Market

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – The town is bringing back the Civic Leadership Academy (CLA).

During the Select Board meeting on June 13, Town Manager Kristi Williams provided a draft of the CLA, which has not been held since 2015.

“We’re pretty excited” to bring this program back, said Williams.

In the program, residents would have the opportunity to learn about town government; each class would explore onetwo municipal departments.

They would also be encouraged to fill available vacancies on the town’s boards and commissions.

Plans are still in the works, including possible tours and demonstrations.

Residents must apply for the Civic Leadership Academy, which would take place on

Wednesdays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. from Sept. 13 through Nov. 8 (nine weeks). The academy concludes on Nov. 14 with a graduation ceremony at a Select Board meeting.

Applications are due by noon on Friday, July 28; prospective attendees will be notified of their admission status shortly thereafter.

Completed applications may be returned to the town manager’s office in Town Hall or emailed to opage@town. westborough.ma.us with the subject line “Civic Leadership Academy Application.”

To view the application and syllabus online, visit www. westboroughma.gov.

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – The Westborough Farmers Market has introduced a new feature — Dinner at the Market.

This twist on al fresco dining will take place one Thursday per month when the market is in session. For this event, the market will remain open until 7 p.m.

For the first Dinner at the Market on July 13, seven food trucks — Anzio’s Brick Oven Pizza, Birds Nest Italian Street Food, Shabby Gourmet Juices, Trolley Dogs, Uhlman’s Ice Cream, Uncle Joey’s Cannoli and Veg Out @ Nourse Farm — provided a variety of goodies. The market provided tables and chairs, and Mother Nature provided a near-perfect summer’s evening.

The event also featured live music, henna tattoos and 20 vendors offering everything from seasonal produce to massages.

“The first dinner’s a hit,”

said Jeannette McCarthy, the marketing director for the Westborough Rotary Club, the market’s sponsor.

She came up with the idea for the dinner when she heard from those who couldn’t make it to the farmers market because it closes at 6 p.m.

“I’m really, really happy with the turnout,” said McCarthy.

The vendors were also happy with the early-evening crowd.

“It’s going well so far,” said Dominic Maynard of Anzio’s Brick Oven Pizza, which brought its mobile oven to serve up fresh, hot pizzas.

Dinner at the Market will take place on Aug. 10, Sept. 7 and Oct. 5.

The farmers market is held on Thursdays from 2 to 6 p.m. at Temple B’nai Shalom, 117 East Main St. For updates, visit www.facebook.com/westborough.farmers.market.

Jeannette McCarthy, center, the marketing director for the Westborough Rotary Club, sponsors of the farmers market, came up with the idea for Dinner at the Market, a monthly event that started on July 13.

PHOTO/MAUREEN SULLIVAN

PHOTO/LAURA HAYES

Shrewsbury Public Library now offering Braille books

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – Braille books are now available at Shrewsbury Public Library.

Patrons can now find 22 braille books — roughly 10 titles — on the main floor of the library. The books are located close to the library entrance and next to the “new releases” section.

The books are on loan from

Perkins Library, which is an extension of Perkins School for the Blind in Watertown. The libraries will switch out the available books; titles will be rotated every two to three weeks.

Currently, available titles include “Becoming” by Michelle Obama, “Seeing Annie Sullivan” by Denise Bergman, “The Judge’s List” by John Grisham, and “Verity” by Colleen Hoover.

The effort to have Braille books at the library dates back to March. Shrewsbury Public Library Director Priya Rathnam and Commission on Disabilities Vice Chair Charbel Sakr did the legwork to help bring the idea to life. The Braille books are loaned at no cost to the town.

“People who are blind or [are] visually impaired should be on equal footing with sighted people,” Sakr said. “If a

Civic Club awards six scholarships

sighted person can go to the library and browse for the book they want… a blind person should be able to do the same.”

“It’s important to have braille books for patrons with visual impairments to access,” Rathnam added in an email statement to the Community Advocate. “They should be able to come into the library and browse for Braille books just

like other folks can access regular books.”

With the Braille books, the library hopes everyone — including those with visual impairments — can find an interesting book at the library. For more information on assistive technology, see: https:// shrewsburypubliclibrary.org/ resources/assistive-technology/.

WESTBOROUGH – The Westborough Civic Club awarded six $1,000 scholarships to the town’s graduating students for their continuing education this fall.

The 2023 recipients were Westborough High School graduates Ella Silverberg, Lily Vaughan, Nalika Palayoor, Prinika Kondoju and Ronald Reets, along with Sophia Ramirez-Granick, who graduated from Assabet Valley Re-

gional Technical High School. The recipients were selected by their school’s nominating committee based on the student demonstrating a healthy interest in civic affairs and having a record of community service and fellowship in the community as demonstrated during their high school career.

Civic Club President George Grosner, in his congratulatory remarks, noted the club is able to fund these scholarships and

other worthy donations each year through proceeds from the club’s annual tree, wreath and garland sale. Members vote each year to provide donations that cover a diverse range of support for the community. The Civic Club is seeking additional members to join and help. More information on the Civic Club may be found on Facebook @WestboroughCivicClub or by emailing info@ westborocivicclub.com.

Braille books are now available at Shrewsbury Public Library.

PHOTOS/EVAN WALSH

Westborough High School graduates Nalika Palayoor, Ronald Reets, Prinika Kondoju and Ella Silverberg join School Superintendent Amber Bock and Civic Club Treasurer Mark Lippitt, Secretary Tom Dwyer, President George Grosner and Vice President Bill Kohler to celebrate their awards. Not shown: WHS graduate Lily Vaughan and Assabet Valley graduate Sophia Ramirez-Granick.

Select Board releases ARPA funds for White Cliffs study

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH – American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds have been released to go toward an environmental mitigation study for White Cliffs.

The Select Board voted 4-0 to release $13,000 in ARPA funds during their July 17 meeting. Select Board member Lisa Maselli recused herself.

“I think it’s work that’s going to need to be done prior to any substantive work on White Cliffs,” said Interim Town Administrator Bob Reed.

He said it would be important to know what the cost of mitigation would be “so people will know just what the rehabilitation of White Cliffs will cost.”

The study would help the Select Board and residents have a baseline understanding of those costs, he added.

Facility Manager Shawn Thompson and Department

of Public Works Director Scott Charpentier discussed such an evaluation during a Select Board meeting in mid-June. At that time, Thompson told the board that a mold analysis indicated that there were heavy concentrations on the first floor.

When the mold analysis was conducted, Thompson had asked a representative from a nationwide mold remediation company what the town was looking at in terms of mold remediation. That representative estimated that it would cost between $1 to $2 million to remediate the mold, though Thompson cautioned that that was an off-the-cuff estimate.

After that meeting, there have been subsequent conversations as to whether the Community Preservation Committee (CPC) could fund this out of their administrative fund.

Select Board Chair Mitch Cohen discussed this possibility with Planning Director

Laurie Connors and CPC Chair John Campbell. According to Cohen, Campbell did research with the state and reported that this type of studies were not eligible to be funded directly by the CPC.

“[It’s] not close enough to a current plan,” Cohen said. “It would be something like an appraisal on a property that the town was thinking about buying, for example, might be fundable. But something like this, even though there have been some past uses of CPC funds similar — turns out, that’s not appropriate.”

Cohen said he told Campbell that the Select Board would consider funding the study with ARPA funds. The town is expected to receive a total of approximately $4.5 million in ARPA funds.

According to Capital Environmental’s budget attached in the Select Board’s packet, the study would develop scopes of work and a remediation budget to manage lead paint, asbestos, lead in the soil

and mold.

In the proposal, Capital Environmental said an onsite meeting or meetings would be needed with the town “to discuss the proposed scope and extent of the renovation plans for the building and proposed future usage.”

It continued, “This will help determine the scale of abatement services required for the tasks listed in this document and which renovation trade will be impacted and may be able to include these tasks in their routine scope of services.”

Additions

During the board meeting, there was discussion about the demolition of the additions, including their potential timeline and cost.

Reed said the board wouldn’t receive quotes to demolish the additions from this study, but the town could move forward to get estimates.

The question, Cohen said,

is what the mansion would be sealed with after the additions were removed.

“Because we bought [White Cliffs]with CPC money with the historic designation, we have to, by the time we’re done with it, turn it back into something resembling the initial exterior and interior appearance of that,” he said. That hasn’t been identified nor has a use or whether additions would be needed, Cohen said.

“It becomes a little gray to find out that in-between part,” Cohen said.

He said the town should find the answers “even if that means sealing it up with plywood with the permanent details to be sorted out later.”

“Getting rid of those additions is something anybody who uses that building will need to do, particularly if we can get some grant money or CPC money to move forward with that, that would be helpful,” Cohen said.

Rotary concludes Trex film plastics spring collection

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – The Trex Challenge film plastics collection, sponsored by the Environment Committee of the Westborough Rotary Club, recently finished its spring drive.

From February to June, more than 2,200 pounds of plastics were collected.

Most of the collections took place at the Kohl’s in Northborough.

“We would like to thank our volunteers from the Westborough High School and the Rotary clubs of Westborough and Northborough for consistently showing up and lending your hands to this program,” said Sharad Mehta, committee chairman. “We appreciate the support of the CFCU Bank, the Boroughs Y and the Westborough High and the Mill Pond schools for hosting the Trex bins for collection. We are also grateful for the unwavering support of the leadership of the Rotary Club (Elliott Rittenberg

and Sandra Kearney) and the leadership of the Westborough School Systems (Amber Bock) since the inception of this program.”

Collections will resume in the fall on the following dates: Sept. 9 and 23; Oct. 7 and Nov. 4 and 18.

Accepted items include grocery, cereal, Zip-Loc, bread and dry-cleaning bags; bubble wrap and plastic shipping envelopes. Potato chip bags with metallic liner, brown mailers with bubble wrap inside, hard plastics and plastic with food residue will not be accepted.

Those unable to drop at Kohl’s in Northborough on the above dates may drop off at the Central One Federal Credit Union, 40 South St. (rear entrance); and the Boroughs YMCA, 4 Valente Drive, Westborough (rear of the lobby area). It is recommended that the collected plastics be saved in clean, regular 13.2-gallon trash bags.

For information, email cote@westboroughrotary.org.

BUSINESS

Central One appoints new branch manager in Northborough

NORTHBOROUGH – The Northborough branch of Central One Federal Credit Union has a new branch manager.

Vaneetha Kannan has been promoted to branch manager.

Kannan joined Central One in 2008 as a member support agent and worked her way to become the assistant branch

manager of the Shrewsbury branch.

In a press release, Central One described her as a “true team player who embodies the credit union ethos of ‘people helping people.’” Central One said that Kannan is known as a knowledgeable resource willing to provide a helping hand.

Firefighters visit St. Mark’s camp

“I believe in building trusted, life-long relationships with my members and team,” she said.

Central One also announced the appointment of Andri Jashari as the branch manager in Auburn. Jashari joined Central One as a senior teller in 2014 and has held numerous roles.

Saint Bridget Early Childhood Program receives $100,000 grant

FRAMINGHAM – Saint Bridget

School’s Early Childhood Program will be receiving significant updates, thanks to a $100,000 grant from the Lynch Foundation.

The program offers preschool and pre-kindergarten to children as young as 2.9 years old.

As part of the grant, Saint Bridget’s program will receive new classroom design, furniture and materials, highquality curriculum and professional development for teachers through the Summer Learning Institute for Teachers along with monthly coaching and mentoring opportunities.

“The early childhood team at Saint Bridget School is excited to become a part of the Lynch Foundation’s Early Childhood Initiative,” said Director of Early Education Lauren Nazzaro.

The Lynch Foundation’s Early Education Initiative is a comprehensive strategy to support both the launch and redesign of early childhood programs across the Archdiocese of Boston Catholic Schools. The initiative leveraged $3.6 million in private philanthropic investment toward the creation and redesign of early childhood classrooms.

“We strongly believe in the importance that early childhood education plays in setting the foundation for all learning,” said Nazzaro. “We are excited to have a partner that shares our beliefs in providing quality educational experienc-

es to our youngest scholars.”

The school is currently enrolling for the upcoming school year. There will be an open house at the end of August. Prospective families should

reach out to Vice Principal for Admissions, Amanda Popp to schedule a tour of the school.

For more information, visit https://www.sbsframingham. org/ or call 508-875-0181.

SOUTHBOROUGH – The Southborough Fire Department recently visited St. Mark’s summer camp.

The visit created an unforgettable experience for campers, St. Mark’s staff wrote in a press release.

The event was organized as a cookout and meet-and-greet and brought the firefighters together with the campers. Excitement filled the air as the department’s fire engine arrived on campus, the release said.

“The firefighters wasted no time engaging with the campers, answering their questions, sharing stories and giving dem-

onstrations,” the release said. The firefighters and EMTs emphasized the importance of fire safety and made sure that the campers understood their crucial role in preventing fires and other accidents.

“The visit from the Southborough Fire Department left a lasting impression on the campers, fostering a sense of admiration and gratitude for the local heroes who protect their community,” the release said. “It served as a reminder that firefighters are not only skilled professionals but also approachable and friendly individuals dedicated to keeping everyone safe.”

Members of the Southborough Fire Department stand with campers.

Direct Line: 508-934-9818

michelle@michellegillespie.com www.michellegillespie.com

10 Main St, Northborough #1 Realtor in Northborough*

&

The challenges of moving with children

By Michelle Gillespie

In this very active summer real estate market, many families are looking to move to a larger home or relocate to another community. This brings many challenges while buying or selling a home but I can help.

Moving into a new home brings with it a lot of emotions, particularly for families moving with children. Excitement and enthusiasm are coupled with anxiety and apprehension as to whether children will take to the new home and neighborhood. Carefully preparing children for the move, both practically and psychologically, will help ease the transition and make the process smoother and more enjoyable for the entire family.

Are you ready to sell?

2023 continues to be a robust year for real estate due to limited inventory and high buyer demand. With hundreds of buyers currently looking for new homes to purchase, now is a great time to join many other happy sellers and profit from this strong sellers’ market while the sale prices continue to appreciate.

Now’s the Time!

If you want to sell your home in this outstanding sellers’ market and would like to discuss the best approach for a positive outcome, call me, Michelle Gillespie at 508-934-9818, or e-mail michelle@michellegillespie.com. Visit my website at www.michellegillespie.com for more information.

For close to 20 years, I have been helping families move. Here is my advice on how to make children of all ages cope with the home and buying process and the big moving day. Here are a few recommendations that I share with my clients when it comes to moving with children.

FINDING A NEW HOME

Communicate - Maintain an open dialogue with children about the decision to move to a new house. Engaging them at the beginning of the process will give them time to get used to the idea and ultimately accept the change. Explain the reasons behind the move, and answer questions truthfully. However, early discussion does not mean it is necessary to bring them to every single home being considered, especially very young children. Once the choices have been narrowed down to perhaps two or three, bring them to the homes so they can begin to feel familiar with new surroundings.

Listen - Listening to what children are saying about the move is just as important as talking to them about it.

By paying close attention to their statements and reactions, parents can alleviate any fears. This is especially important for school-age children and teenagers who may be reluctant to leave their friends and classmates. Avoid being dismissive of their social concerns; acknowledge them and remind them about the new opportunities that await them. Focusing on the positives of the move may help settle down anxious children.

Explore - After deciding on a new home, I can help your family discover their new neighborhood by showing you the playgrounds, community centers, recreation areas and other areas important to the children that help make the environment seem more familiar.

MOVING IN

Comfort - Pack up the children’s rooms last to minimize disruption. The longer they feel secure in their own rooms, the easier the transition will be. Then, set up their new bedrooms first so they feel like they’re back in familiar surroundings. And do not completely redecorate the children’s rooms in the new home; maintain continuity so the children feel secure. It is very important to return to normal routines as quickly as possible, so set up the kitchen second. Try to serve meals at the same times as before, so there is not too much change all at once.

Engage - Show the children all the other rooms in the new home and let them participate to a degree in decorating decision-making. By accepting input on decora-

tion, parents will make their children feel like they are part of the process.

Surprise - Arrange for special treats to be waiting for everyone at the new house. New games or new cuddly friends will keep the children busy during unpacking and make the first memory of the new house a pleasant one to remember.

OUR CURRENT MARKET

Make the most of this summer market.

With the record low inventory . . . for example as of July 12th with only 4 homes in Northborough, 10 in Hudson, 11 for Westborough and 14 in Marlborough just to name a few communities. It is a winwin for you as a seller. Time over time, my sellers receive top dollars for their homes and making a move now will help you ensure success.

If you are ready or would like a free market analysis, give me a call. Or Email me

Michelle@michellegillespie. com. Let me help you market, stage and prepare your home to sell for the highest price. Let us maximize first impressions and attract great offers by following the tips in this article.

LET ME HELP YOU

I have close to 20 years of experience working with families to sell and buy a new home. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I sold many homes and moved many families successfully and safely into their new homes. I have a family of my own, so I understand the unique challenges involved with moving families.

If you are thinking of selling this year, please give me a call. I would love to talk with you about selling your home. You can reach me at 508-934-9818 or Email me at Michelle@ michellegillespie.com.

Visit my website at www.michellegillespie.com to request a free market analysis. I look forward to hearing from you.

Michelle Gillespie REALTOR® MEGA AGENT

Museum, library to present stargazing program

GRAFTON – The Willard House and Clock Museum and the Grafton Public Library will present the James Webb Space Telescope + Stargazing Party on Wednesday, July 26, at the museum, 11 Willard St., from 7 p.m. to after dark.

This event, which is free and open to the public, was supported by the Webster First Federal Credit Union.

NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador

M.J. Johnson will present the non-technical talk on the James Webb Space Telescope, followed immediately afterward by a “star party,” hosted in partnership with the Aldrich Astronomical Society, one of the oldest amateur astronomy clubs in the U.S. This presentation and event are appropriate for all ages.

“In 2021, humanity successfully initiated the most ambitious, complicated and expensive telescope ever conceived, and began a new era of discovery unlike any before it,” said Johnson. “The James Webb Space Telescope (or JWST) has begun returning images to us that stretch the limits of our very understanding.”

“This presentation will provide context for what we’ve begun learning from the JWST as it looks toward the very beginning

Marlborough seeks translators for Haitian families

MARLBOROUGH – The city recently provided an update on housing homeless and immigrant families in local hotels.

Currently, the city has 33 families of homeless, combined with Haitian immigrants, housed at both the Holiday Inn and Extended Stay hotels. These hotels have state agreements with ownership.

council, 508-872-4853, or Eliot Community Human Service, 781-861-0890.

of our universe. These images offer as much beauty to the public as they offer insight to scientists eager to pull back the veil on events in our cosmos to which we’ve never before had access,” he added.

After the talk, members of the Aldrich Astronomical Society will be available to help navigate the starry night (weather permitting) and to share views of the heavens through their telescopes.

The Grafton Public Library will also be on site with its expanded telescope loaner collection, and it will explain how to borrow the instruments. Astronomical resources, including books, magazines, movies, music and kits will be available for checkout to help families discover the beauty of the night sky for themselves.

Guests are encouraged to register at https://tinyurl.com/3ehraj68.

Recent reports have disclosed that the federal government has dispersed thousands of immigrants across the country to date, and the Commonwealth has accepted 20,000 homeless immigrants into Massachusetts, a right-to-shelter state.

“We know that there are 22 Haitian school-age children at the Holiday Inn housed with their parents or guardians, and anticipate the Holiday Inn filling their 170 rooms with Haitian families who speak Creole,” said Mayor Arthur Vigeant in a press release.

There are two organizations handling all the needs of each homeless group. South Middlesex Opportunity Council is handling the general homeless population, and The Eliot Community Human Service organization is managing all the needs of the Haitian immigrant population. Questions can be directed to the

The city of Marlborough is taking steps to find Creole translators and English language learning instruction for this population. If anyone has contacts that may be interested in providing translation services or instruction, please contact the mayor’s office at 508-460-3770.

“The city is making preparations to deal with this crisis while we still have many questions, and more importantly we need to know how many school-age children we need to accommodate in September and how long this temporary housing solution will last,” said Vigeant. Mayors across the Commonwealth will learn more at an upcoming meeting next week with Gov. Maura Healey and her administration, and the mayor’s office will communicate additional information as it comes.

“State legislators need to put pressure on Washington to act. We need a welcoming bipartisan immigration process that works. It’s not going to happen overnight, but someone needs to take initiative to move things in a positive direction,” said Vigeant.

FDIC-insured up to $250,000 (principal and interest accrued but not yet paid) per depositor, per insured depository institution, for each account ownership category. Please visit www. fdic.gov or contact your financial advisor for additional information. Subject to availability and price change. CD values are subject to interest rate risk such that when interest rates rise, the prices of CDs can decrease. If CDs are sold prior to maturity, the investor can lose principal value. FDIC insurance does not cover losses in market value. Early withdrawal may not be permitted. Yields quoted are net of all

Al and Molly Brodeur

co rridor

OPEN FOR BUSINESS

Steven Roach, President & CEO of UMass Memorial Health-Marlborough Hospital and HealthAlliance Clinton Hospital, has been elected chair of the Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of Commerce for 2023-25. The announcement was made at the Chamber’s Annual Meeting on May 19th. He succeeds Pam Stevens, partner at Seder & Chandler LLP, who now moves to the position of immediate past chair of the Board of Directors.

co rridor

Mr. Roach has served as President/CEO of Marlborough Hospital since November 2013 and President of HealthAlliance

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Clinton Hospital since 2019. Before joining UMass Memorial Marlborough Hospital, Roach served as chief executive officer of Nashoba Valley Medical Center in Ayer. He also served as chief financial officer and chief operating officer there, prior to his appointment as CEO in 2006. Prior to this, Roach served as director of financial and strategic planning at Emerson Hospital in Concord and senior financial analyst at Boston’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital.

In addition to his involvement with the Chamber, Roach also serves on numerous community boards and foundations, is a fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives and a member of the Healthcare Financial Management Association.

“I am incredibly honored to have been elected chair of this dynamic and respected organization that plays such a leadership role in advancing the Corridor 9/495 region,” Roach said. “I am excited to work alongside an incredible board and staff to advance the Chamber’s mission as a strong resource for our business community.”

“Steve has served as an important member of the Chamber’s Board of Directors and Executive Committee for several years and is a valued leader in the community,” noted Karen Chapman, Chamber president and CEO. “We are fortunate to have his respected leadership as we continue to advance the interests of our members and work together to promote the Corridor 9/495 Region.”

8/8/2023 | RIBBON CUTTING: LION’S GATE & SPIRITUAL WELLNESS CENTER, 4:00 - 5:00 pm, 57 East Main Street, Suite 134, Westborough

8/8/2023 | WOMEN IN BUSINESS SUMMER SOCIAL, 5:00 pm-7:30 pm, Tavolino’s Ristorante, Westborough

8/22/2023 | SUMMER BBQ, 4:30-7:00 pm, The Willows, One Lyman Street, Westborough

9/8/2023 | ANNUAL COMMUNITY SERVICE DAY, 9:00 am-12:00 noon, Prospect Hill Farm, Harvard

9/12/2023 | RIBBON CUTTING: PERENNIAL RECOVERY, 5:30 pm, 287 Turnpike Road, Suite 125, Westborough

9/20/2023 | CORRIDOR 9/495 & WORCESTER REGIONAL CHAMBER NETWORKING EVENT, 5:00-7:30 pm, Cyprian Keyes Golf Club, Boylston

WE SHOULD TALK ABOUT JUMPSTARTING YOUR FIVE-YEAR PLAN.

Select Board approves ARPA grant requests

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – Programs for the Council on Aging, the Westborough Fire Department and the Westborough Public Library were among those receiving funds through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

During its meeting on July 11, the Select Board granted nearly $384,000 in requests.

Topping the list was Mill Pond Elementary School, which will receive $174,000 for new security cameras.

The library will receive $19,500 to replace 10 aging desktop computers – eight for public use, two for staff.

The Council on Aging will receive $7,500 toward a day break program, which will allow caregivers to drop off their patients at the senior center for a few hours.

The Department of Public Works will get $50,000 toward investigating lead in service lines; community development will receive $10,000 in matching funds toward its downtown development plan.

“$50,000 will get a lot done,” said DPW Director Chris Payant.

The board also granted two requests from the Fire Department — $22,954 for technical rescue equipment, and $100,000 toward the hiring of up to three firefighters.

According to Fire Chief Pat Purcell, the equipment will be used for accidents involving trucks.

He added that the department has been experiencing an increase in calls, which requires additional staffing.

In addition to the funds, Purcell asked the board to support a funding article for this fall’s Town Meeting. The board voted to support the article.

The latest round of grants leaves about $5,000 in ARPA funds left to be committed, said Town Manager Kristi Williams. That amount could increase from interest accrued

The Westborough Fire Department received ARPA funds for technical rescue equipment for the hiring of up to three firefighters.

and leftover funds returned from projects.

The town received a total of $5.7 million in ARPA funds. It has until the end of 2024 to commit the funds, and until the end of 2025 to spend it.

To find out more about the town’s ARPA projects, visit www.westboroughma.gov/ select-board/pages/american-rescue-plan-act-arpaprojects.

Children’s Bible stories at St. Paul’s

REGION – The community is invited to attend St. Paul Episcopal Church’s summer Bible story drop-in.

So far, the drop-ins have taken place on July 12 and 19 and will continue July 26 and Aug. 2. A selection of children’s Bible stories, the even features stories, activities, snacks and juice.

The Bible story dropins take place at 10:30 a.m. to noon and are intended for children ages two to five and their parents or guardians.

For more information or to sign up, contact Ginny Foster at 978-376-5327 or vhfoster57@gmail.com or Laurie LaBrecque at 774-253-4432.

St. Paul’s is located at 61 Wood Street in Hopkinton.

“

$50,000 will get a lot done.

Chris Payant DPW Director

PHOTO/DAKOTA ANTELMAN

Westborough farm was town’s beloved blueberry patch for over five decades

WESTBOROUGH

THEN NOW

By Kristina Nilson Allen History Columnist

WESTBOROUGH - Lillian Grove, “The Blueberry Lady of Denny Brook Farm,” managed the popular pick-yourown blueberry business at 140 South Street with strict rules. Lil actually had “spies” among the bushes who made sure you stripped your assigned bush and didn’t wander off looking for better “pickins.”

Row upon row, high blueberry bushes dripped with artfully draped mosquito netting, shielding the plump berries underneath. From the far side of the bushes wafted juicy gossip, its source a tantalizing mystery.

Favorite recipes for blueberry buckle, blueberry grunt, blueberry pandowdy, blueberry turnovers, and blueberry upside down cake were exchanged

among the pickers in the patch.

Decked out with mosquito netting hanging from her own hat and always clad in boots, the diminutive Lil knew her patch like the back of her hand. She was lively, generous and widely admired for her independent spirit. In May 1953 Lil and her husband Gil bought the historic 1725 home of Asher Rice.

According to their nextdoor neighbor Janet Harvey, age 92, “It takes about three to six years before the bushes produce, depending on the different varieties of blueberries. At one time the Groves also raised Hereford cattle,” she added.

In the 1960s, Lil and Gil would pick the berries themselves, then call their list of loyal customers to pick up the berries at their front door. Lil, who had met Gil at the New England Conservatory of Music, recorded a musical telephone answering machine message. It opened with the first line from the Fats Domino

song, “Blueberry Hill,” sung by Lil in her beautiful soprano voice, remembered Julia Thurber Candon.

“When he wasn’t raising blueberries, Gil Grove was a fine jazz musician,” added Candon. “For many years he was a composer and the conductor of Westborough’s Hundredth Town Chorus.”

From the 1960s until Lil’s death in 2018, Denny Brook Farm was a major source of Westborough’s blueberries.

There were no ads: only a banner appliqued with a giant blueberry that hung from the fence post. Once that banner flew, no further notice was needed. It was blueberry season at Denny Brook Farm!

From 7 a.m. on, customers hugging their berry pots lined up eagerly along the South Street fence to be admitted.

“After you got your berry pot weighed and marked with masking tape or had last year’s label verified,” remembered

Marge Fisher, “Lil gave you a ‘picking can’ with a string attached to wear around your neck. This made a convenient berry catcher that you then dumped into your own pot when it was full,” said Fisher.

It’s fortunate that the pickers themselves weren’t weighed on the way in and on the way out of the patch, as their buckets were. You hoped Lillian could overlook the blue outline around your lips—telltale evidence of the berries that never made it to your pot.

After Gil Grove died in 1983, Lil’s nephew Roy Rogers helped her manage the pick-your-own business. In recent years, two new homes have replaced the Denny Brook Farm berry patch.

“I know of at least one instance when cuttings were allowed to be taken from the berry bushes after Lil passed away,” said Fisher. “Those cuttings are now being husbanded in their garden--I suspect that there may be other Grove blueberry offspring thriving elsewhere in town.”

Lillian Grove was known as the Blueberry Lady of Denny Brook Farm.

Southborough’s Hidden Gem: Art on the Trails

By Tyler Charpentier

Contributing Writer

SOUTHBOROUGH - Alongside Main Street in the town of Southborough, and across from Chestnut Hill Farm lies a hidden world filled with wooded nature trails and a variety of unique pieces of sculptural art.

Known as “Art on the Trails,” it’s a 55-acre tract of land that is owned by Southborough Open Land Foundation and doubles as an outdoor art exhibit from June 10 until Sept. 17.

Catherine Weber is the program director for Art on the Trails. She held her seventh installation of the program this year; its theme is “Transforma-

tion.”

In order for participants’ artwork to be showcased in Art on the Trails, the artists are asked to submit existing work or a proposal piece to a blind jury by the beginning of April.

Each year there is a group of approximately 15 jurors who are scouted through a social media based “call-out” conducted by Weber. The panel consists of jurors with varying backgrounds, ranging from artists who have previously participated in Art of the Trails, to creative directors of local art centers.

“One of the most important factors in choosing the jurors is finding people who understand what this space and show is all

Chase Bank closer to opening

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – Chase Bank is one step closer to opening a branch in the city.

The City Council’s Urban Affairs Committee has approved a special permit for Chase to open at the former Boston Market location on Boston Post Road West. The permit will also allow Chase to operate a drive-up, freestanding ATM.

“The bank will be in a marquee location,” said City Councilor David Doucette.

This will be the bank’s first location in Marlborough; the nearest Chase bank is in Framingham.

Josh Kline of Stonefield Engineering and Design, the project, traffic and civic engineer on the project, said they have been working with the Site Plan Review Committee to upgrade

the site’s parking and signage. The measure has been sent to the city solicitor, and it will be sent to the full City Council for a final vote on Monday, Aug. 21.

about,” said Weber.

Out of the submissions received and reviewed by the jury, 15-16 artists are chosen to display their pieces on the trails and awarded $100 each.

Weber expressed great passion about being able to financially support the artists who participate in her installations.

“Lots of artists are asked to show their work not for money but for exposure. There

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are shows that will charge a fee to get in and then the artist gets nothing in return financially, I didn’t want to be one of those shows. So everyone who participates in these shows gets $100,” said Weber.

In this year’s installation, there are 16 sculpture artists who have their works on display. They include students from Neary Elementary School, Madeleine Lord, Linda Hoffman, Margot McMahon, Jon Lausten, Gint Grinbergs, Hildreth Potts, Matthew Haberstroth, Ted Castro, Rhode Island Collective, Bridie Wolejko, Meagan Hepp, Marie Despres, Lisa Barthelson, Gena Mavuli and Melanie Zibit.

Along with sculptural art, Weber also holds another segment named “Call for Poetry.”

This encourages people to walk through the installation and write ekphrastic poems in response to the displayed artwork.

Call for Poetry will be accepting this year’s submissions through the end of July. The top 32 poems will be sent to a final judge. The winning poet will be awarded $100 and their poem will be published in the seventh edition of “Art on The Trails.”

Art on the Trails is freely available to the public from dawn to dusk. Weber encourages everyone to stop by and admire the artwork while also enjoying quality time in the tranquility of nature. She sees immense value in this installation and its positive impact on the Southborough community.

“There are people who walk through these woods and don’t think about art at all but now once a year, they do. There are people who think about art and don’t walk through the woods but now once a year, they do,” said Weber.

Art on the Trail is open through Sept. 17.

Shrewsbury police arrest suspect for trafficking ecstasy

The Shrewsbury Police department announced that it has arrested and charged a Framingham man for allegedly trafficking ecstasy pills.

Three residents displaced following fire in Marlborough home

By Ron Ayotte Contributing Writer

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – A Framingham man has been charged with trafficking ecstasy pills, the Shrewsbury Police Department announced.

At approximately 9 p.m. on June 29, a Shrewsbury officer pulled over a gray 2011 Acura on Boston Turnpike near St. Anne’s Church. According to a press re-

lease from the department, the officer suspected that the driver was impaired and operating under the influence of marijuana.

During the investigation, officers found three bags of ecstasy pills – totaling 174 grams – inside the vehicle.

“This amount is significantly well above the threshold for drug trafficking ecstasy, which is 18 grams or above under Massachusetts law,” the police

wrote in the press release.

Officers also located $2,961 in cash and a small bag of cocaine.

Gregory White, 35, of Framingham, was arrested and charged with trafficking a class B substance (methamphetamines), possession of a class B substance (cocaine), operating under the influence of drugs, a number plate violation and a marked lanes violation.

MARLBOROUGH – Three Marlborough residents were displaced after a fire in their home on Elm Heights Terrace.

The fire was reported by a neighbor at 9:25 a.m. via 911. The resident, with the assistance of a couple of neighbors, helped the three residents to evacuate.

Squad 1 arrived on scene first, with Engine 2 right behind them. Squad 1 reported smoke coming from the rear of the house from the rear of the house with possible extension to the attic space. The box for a working fire was transmitted.

Marlborough Car 1 and Car 2 responded to the scene of the working fire. Engine 2 and Squad 1 personnel advanced a hose line into the house while Rescue 1 did a quick search to ensure that no people or pets were still inside. Crews from Eversource and National Grid were requested to the scene to shut off the utilities.

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – A Marlbor-

ough resident is facing several charges after police say he attacked another man with a machete.

According to information provided by Marlborough police to the Metrowest Daily News, the incident occurred on the evening of Sunday, July 9.

Police responded to 152 Broad St. on reports of a man suffering a serious injury. According to Metrowest Daily News, the victim had a “deep” wrist laceration. The victim reportedly told police that he was attacked

The fire was extinguished and overhauled, and the walls and ceilings in the fire area were opened up to ensure that the fire had not spread to other parts of the residence.

According to Battalion Chief Ken MacEwen, the fire was in a bedroom in the rear of the house.

“Luckily, one of the residents had the foresight to close the door, which contained the fire to the room of origin,” he said. MacEwen said there was fire and smoke damage.

“All in all, it was a textbook room-and-contents fire. No one was injured; there were no transports from the fire by Patriot EMS,” he said.

The residents were taken to the senior center temporarily, and the Red Cross was called in to assist them. The Red Cross found a hotel room for the residents.

The all-out sounded at 11:03. Damage estimates are being assessed.

The cause of the fire was undisclosed.

by a stranger, who was later identified by neighbors as Abel Hernandez.

Hernandez was located by police walking along Hildreth Street around 10:40 p.m.; he was arrested.

According to the report, police have not found the machete.

On July 10, Hernandez was taken to Marlborough District Court, where he was charged with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, causing serious bodily injury; mayhem; and possession of a Class C drug. Hernandez is currently being held without bail pending a dangerousness hearing, which was scheduled for July 11.

PHOTO/SHREWSBURY POLICE DEPARTMENT

Crews responded to a fire at Elm Heights Terrace.

PHOTO/IAN HATHAWAY

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.

Scan QR code to read this week’s police and fire news on our website.

Grafton

Sunday, June 18

2:41 p.m. Mass Pike E. Accident – rollover/entrap.

8:59 p.m. Arrested, Joseph Michael Harrison, 46, of 15 Greenlawn Ave., Apt. B, South Grafton, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle.

Monday, June 19

7:18 a.m. Worcester St. Water Main break.

9:19 a.m. Providence/Benson Rds. Accident – personal injury.

Tuesday, June 20 10:06 p.m. Grafton Com/Millbury St. Accident – personal injury.

Thursday, June 22 2:01 p.m. Gordon Cir. Keeping the peace.

Sunday, June 25 4:10 p.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/

identity theft.

Monday, June 26

12:21 p.m. Main St. Assault – no injuries.

2:09 p.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/ identity theft.

6:42 p.m. Providence Rd. Threatening.

Tuesday, June 27

9:27 a.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/ identity theft.

3:41 p.m. Millbury St. Scam/attempted scam.

Wednesday, June 28

4:21 p.m. Faulkner Rd. B&E – in progress.

Thursday, June 29

1:52 p.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/ identity theft.

9:31 p.m. Main St. Disorderly person(s).

Friday, June 30

10:51 a.m. Pine St. Scam/attempted scam.

11:11 a.m. Carroll Rd. Fraud/ identity theft.

11:39 a.m. Main St. Threatening.

11:51 a.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/ identity theft.

Marlborough

Thursday, June 29

9:53 p.m. Arrested , Kenneth Marion Curewitz, 60, of 55 Pebble Beach Dr., Plymouth, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, marked lanes violation.

Friday, June 30

12:32 a.m. Broadmeadow Rd. Threats.

10:04 a.m. Newton St. Threats.

5:10 p.m. Orchard St. Harassment order/served.

Shrewsbury police seize counterfeit goods

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

SHREWSBURY – The Shrewsbury Police Department has seized over $11 million in counterfeit goods.

On June 17 at 2:29 p.m., Shrewsbury police responded to the report of multiple gunshots in the area of Holden and Bow streets.

According to a press release from the department, the officers began searching the area, including Extra Space Storage on Clinton Street. Police saw several vehicles and a person in front of a storage unit.

Police went into the storage unit the person was exiting and saw “thousands” of items of merchandise, the release said.

“The merchandise was neatly displayed on shelves, tables and boxes and laid out in a manner similar to how they

11:36 p.m. Church St. MVA with injuries.

Saturday, July 1

8:54 a.m. Lodi Rd. Vandalism.

10:19 a.m. Ferrecchia Dr. Vandalism.

3:07 p.m. West Main St. Fraud/ forgery.

Sunday, July 2

10:01 a.m. Witherbee St. Larceny.

10:45 a.m. Gano Rd. Larceny.

12:25 p.m. BPRE. Fraud/forgery.

Monday, July 3

12:31 p.m. Stevens Playground/ Arnold Street Ext. Vandalism.

9:47 p.m. Solomon Pond Mall/ Donald J. Lynch Blvd. Trespassing.

Tuesday, July 4

1:26 p.m. Munroe Ave. Harassment.

2:14 p.m. Allen Ct. Harassment.

3:39 p.m. Boivin Dr. Fraud/forgery.

Wednesday, July 5

6:06 a.m. Lincoln/Pleasant Sts. MVA with injuries.

2:30 p.m. Wayside Apartments

(Harrison Arms)/BPRE. Larceny.

3:34 p.m. Ewald Ave. Larceny.

10:22 p.m. Marlboro Market/East Main St. Larceny.

Thursday, July 6

6:33 a.m. Chestnut St. Larceny.

10:06 a.m. Arrested , Carlos Miranda, 18, of 29 Zina Rd., Hudson, for snow/rec veh – helmet violation, receive stolen property +$1200.

3:33 p.m. Pleasant St. Fraud/ forgery.

7:34 p.m. Howland St. MVA property damage only.

7:46 p.m. Ash St. MVA with injuries.

9:19 p.m. Hyatt Place Hotel/Apex Dr. Larceny.

Friday, July 7

1:41 p.m. Office Building – Atlantic Property MGMT Co./Donald J. Lynch Blvd. Threats.

3:09 p.m. Pioneer Trl. Harassment.

3:33 p.m. Extended Stay America/ Northboro Road East. Fraud/forgery.

7:00 p.m. Target Store/BPRE. Larceny.

would be displayed in a retail store for sale,” police wrote.

Among the items were handbags, sunglasses, hats, shoes, clothes, backpacks, cologne, phone cases, earbuds and umbrellas. Some of the brand names on the items included Rolex, Gucci, Prada, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Nike and North Face.

According to the release, police believed that the brand name items were counterfeit.

Officers collected 16,644 items of evidence from three storage units with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price value of $11.3 million. Police seized an additional 19 items from the two vehicles searched that were worth an estimated $44,920.

According to police, the investigation and identification of the suspects is active and ongoing.

Lynch Blvd. B&E into MV.

Monday, July 10

3:36 a.m. Arrested , Bruno Rodrigues Dos Santos, 19, of 43 Britton Ave., Stoughton, for unlicensed operation of MV, fail to stop for police, speeding/rate of speed greater than was reasonable and proper, marked lanes violation, negligent operation of motor vehicle, fail to stop/yield.

10:06 a.m. Solomon Pond Mall/ Donald J. Lynch Blvd. Vandalism.

10:54 a.m. Mill Street North. Auto theft.

6:37 p.m. Boundary St./BPRW. MVA with injuries.

6:31 p.m. The Heights at Marlborough Apts./Briarwood Ln. Larceny.

Tuesday, July 11

10:17 a.m. Phelps St. Larceny.

12:27 p.m. Marlboro District Court/Williams St. Vandalism.

12:41 p.m. The Reservoir Center Health Care/Bolton St. Fraud/ forgery.

1:51 p.m. Broadmeadow Rd. Vandalism.

6:19 p.m. Boudreau Ave. Fraud/ forgery.

6:40 p.m. Gibbons St. Harassment.

10:17 p.m. Arrested, Joshua Gonzalez, 30, of 460 Boston Post Road East, Apt. B707, Marlborough, on true warrants.

Wednesday, July 12

2:52 a.m. Apex Entertainment (Main Site)/Apex Dr. Trespassing.

Westborough

Wednesday, July 5

1:02 p.m. Lyman St. Assault.

8:57 p.m. Arrested, Pedro H. De Paula Goncalve, 26, of 48 Plantation St., Apt. 3, Worcester, for op MV with license suspended, op MV with registration suspended, uninsured motor vehicle, default warrants, MV lights violation.

Friday, July 7

5:10 p.m. Valente Dr. Larceny.

Saturday, July 8

Araujo Gomes, 20, of 5 Harriman Rd., Hudson, on warrants.

11:22 a.m. Fox Hill Rd. Illegal dumping.

6:48 p.m. Memorial Dr./Hartford Tpke. Illegal dumping.

Monday, July 10

4:36 p.m. Hartford Tpke. Illegal dumping.

Tuesday, July 11

4:35 a.m. Francis Ave. Harassment.

9:20 a.m. Main St. Identity theft.

11:20 a.m. Harriet Ave. Identity theft.

1:17 p.m. Bridle Path. Identity theft.

4:46 p.m. Roman Dr. Identity theft. 5:31 p.m. Flint Pond Cir. Larceny.

5:35 p.m. Maple Ave. Identity theft.

6:03 p.m. Arrested, Nicholas John Simon, 38, of 38 Chilmark St., Worcester, for use of another commercial dumpster, receive stolen motor vehicle, poss Class B substance subsequent offense, poss Class A substance subsequent offense, and Sara E. Laboeuf, 49, of 38 Chilmark St., Worcester, for receive stolen motor vehicle, use of another’s dumpster, possession Class B substance, possession Class A substance.

Wednesday, July 12

1:31 a.m. Holden St. Illegal dumping.

6:13 p.m. Blackthorn Rd. Identity theft.

6:51 p.m. Fifth Av Row. B&E residential.

Thursday, July 13

12:23 a.m. Boston Tpke. Accident with injury.

9:46 a.m. Grace Ave. Preserve the peace.

3:09 p.m. Arrested, Felicia Swenson Jones, 38, of 530 Cambridge St., Worcester, for forgery of check, utter false check, attempt to commit crime.

Northborough

7:59 p.m. Domino’s/Main St. Harassment.

10:50 p.m. Mustang Ave. Larceny.

Saturday, July 8

1:12 p.m. 10X Self Storage/Simarano Dr. Auto theft.

3:14 p.m. Lake Williams Condos/ West Main St. Fraud/forgery.

8:42 p.m. Design Pak Lofts/Maple St. B&E into MV.

9:12 p.m. Apple Store/Donald J. Lynch Blvd. Larceny.

10:40 p.m. The Ranch Boarding House/Lincoln St. Pedestrian accident.

Sunday, July 9

11:22 a.m. The Branches at Marlborough/Bolton St. Harassment.

6:04 p.m. Apex Entertainment (Maine Site)/Apex Dr. Trespassing.

8:26 p.m. Arrested, Abel Hernandez, 40, of 152 Broad St., Marlborough, for A&B with dangerous weapon/serious bodily injury, mayhem, possess Class B drug, true warrants.

8:53 p.m. Olive Garden/Donald J.

2:42 p.m. Arrested , Angelino Rodrigues De Faria, 39, of 6 Henry St., Brockton, for unlicensed operation of MV, fail to dim headlights, warrant.

7:51 p.m. Homestead Blvd. Trespassing.

9:26 p.m. Arrested, Tyler Wooding, 42, of 180 E Main St., Apt. 309, Westborough, for disturbing the peace, A&B on police officer, disorderly conduct, resist arrest.

Shrewsbury

Friday, July 7

9:28 a.m. Grafton St. Larceny.

9:50 a.m. Francis Gardens Crt. Larceny.

12:01 p.m. Oak St. Identity theft.

8:36 p.m. Arrested, Richarlison Christiano Tomaz-DeFreiatas, 33, of 70 Bartlett St., Apt. A, Northborough, on warrants.

9:20 p.m. Arrested, Gabriel Augusto Cota, 22, of 28 Water St., Apt. 104, Worcester, on warrant.

Saturday, July 8

12:26 a.m. Arrested , Erick De

Friday, July 7

10:18 a.m. Southwest Cut/Belmont St. Criminal complaint.

11:11 a.m. Brookside Ln. Illegal dumping/litter.

4:26 p.m. Belmont St./Southwest Cut. Accident: P.I.

7:47 p.m. Shops Way. Larceny.

Sunday, July 9

6:02 p.m. Arrested, Christopher B. Santana, 22, of 59 School St., B23, Northborough, on warrant.

Monday, July 10

4:28 p.m. Main St. Fraud.

Tuesday, July 11

11:17 a.m. West Main St. Vandalism.

3:05 p.m. Hudson St. Illegal dumping/littering.

Wednesday, July 12

12:01 p.m. Indian Meadow Dr. Fraud.

Thursday, July 13

10:43 a.m. West Main St. Vandalism.

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

Bates, Jeanne of Shrewsbury

Boyer, Sr. Annette (Sr. M. James

Edward) a Sister of St. Anne

Coonan, Rita formerly of North Grafton

Cotter, Jacqueline of Northborough

De Sousa, Fernando of Marlborough

Dean, Dorothy of Shrewsbury

Duffy, Joanne of Marlborough

Gallup, Ann of Marlborough

Gauthier, Robert of Marlborough

Gillam, Judith of Shrewsbury

Lampi, Rauno Westborough

Mastrovito, M. Dorothy formerly of Shrewsbury

Miller, Francis formerly of Westborough

Minot, Beverley of Hudson

Nicholson, Joyce of Grafton

Noel, Barbara of Grafton

Richardson, David of Shrewsbury

Roseen, Carol of Grafton

Rossi Jr., Edward formerly of Shrewsbury

Shea, Sophie of Shrewsbury

Sutherland, Theresa of Marlborough

Willis III, Frederick of Burlington

Scan QR code to read all of this week’s obituaries on our website.

Theresa C. Sutherland, 72

MARLBOROUGH - Theresa C.

“Gi” (MacKinnon) Sutherland of Marlborough passed on Thursday, July 6, 2023 peacefully at home after a long, courageous battle with cancer. Born in Nova Scotia Canada, she was the daughter of the late D. Douglas and Mary (Campbell) MacKinnon. Terry was the beloved wife of Joseph “Joe” Sutherland for 38 years, who predeceased Terry in 2019.

Terry is survived by her son James “Jimmy” Poirier and his wife Tara of Marlborough and their two children Brendan and Madison. She is also survived by her brother Gilbert E. MacK-

innon and his wife Joanne. The Short and Rowe Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.

Rauno A. Lampi, 93

WESTBOROUGH - Dr. Rauno A. Lampi, 93, a long-time Westborough resident, passed away peacefully on June 30, 2023 in Leominster, Mass. surrounded by his family. Born on August 12, 1929 in Gardner, Massachusetts, he was the son of Oiva and Olga (Tapola) Lampi.

Rauno is survived by his brother Allan O. Lampi of Oregon, and by his four children: Steven and his wife Terrie, of San Leandro California; Martin Lampi, of Westborough; Karin and her husband Cameron Hutt of Shrewsbury; and Eric and his wife Sally of Westborough. He also leaves his grandchildren, Christopher Lampi, Evan and Vanessa Lampi, Ryan Lampi, Heather (Hutt) and Sri Iyer, Leandra (Hutt) and Matthew Pfleger, Dr. Andrew and Stephanie Lampi, and Patrick Lampi; his great grandchildren, Laurel Pfleger and Kiran Iyer; as well as many nieces, nephews and extended family. He is predeceased by Betty (Noponen) Lampi, “Boop,” his beloved wife of 67 years.

The Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.

Fernando Pereira

Rodrigues De Sousa, 73

MARLBOROUGH - Fernando

Pereira Rodrigues De Sousa, 73, of Marlborough died Wednesday July 5, 2023 at his home. He was the husband of Maria I. (De Paula) Rodrigues for the past 22 years.

He was born, raised and educated in São Miguel Azores, Portugal, the son of the late Jaime Rodrigues De Souza and Clotilda (Resendes) Rodrigues.

Besides his wife Maria, he leaves two sons, Miguel and Fernando Rodrigues both of Marlborough; three brothers, Dinart, Jaime and Noé Rorigues

both of Portugal; along with many nephews and nieces. He was predeceased by his brother João and two sisters, Ermelinda and Bibiana.

The Collins Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.

Robert R. Gauthier, 85

MARLBOROUGH - Robert R. Gauthier, 85, of Marlborough died Tuesday, July 4, 2023.

Born in Marlborough, he was the son of the late Rene and Lillian (Archambeault) Gauthier.

Robert is survived by his daughters, Robin Makani and her husband John Makani of Clinton, Karen Harding and her husband Michael Harding of Clinton, and Sylvia Rumsey and her husband Jim Rumsey of Leominster, his son, Robert R Gauthier Jr. and his wife Mary Gauthier of Iowa, his grandchildren, Ryan, Sara, Matthew, Emily, Kate, Robbie, Maren, Madison and Jimmy and his great grandchildren, Ryan JR, Lily and Connor. He is also survived by his sister Yvonne Lizotte and his brother Paul Gauthier.

The Slattery Funeral Home, Inc. of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.

Rita B. Coonan, 96

DUDLEY - Rita B. (St. Denis) Coonan, 96, of Dudley and former longtime resident of North Grafton, died Wednesday, July 5, 2023 at home with loving family members by her side.

Rita was the proud mother of 10 children and is survived by Everett Coonan, Jr. and his wife, Bonnie of The Villages, Florida, Mary Geary of Tampa, Florida, Carol Cahill of McCordsville, Indiana, Thomas (Tom) Coonan of Putnam, CT, Nancy McGill and her husband, Fred of Dudley, Patricia Lucero of North Grafton, Dianne Coonan and her husband, Miguel Villega of Worcester, John Coonan of Putnam, CT

and Robert (Bob) Coonan of Worcester. She also leaves 22 grandchildren, 35 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandson. Rita is also survived by her brother, Arthur St. Denis and his wife, Jeanne of Worcester and dozens of nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband of 53 years, Everett W. Coonan, Sr. and by her daughter, Jeanne Yuknavich; her grandson, David Bengtson; her 3 brothers, Ernest St. Denis, Lawrence (Larry) St. Denis and Leo St. Denis; one sister, Lucille Sanborn and a great grandson, Spencer Salce.

Roney Funeral Home of North Grafton assisted with arrangements.

Sr. Annette Boyer, 96 a Sister of St. Anne

MARLBOROUGH - Sr. Annette Boyer (Sr. M. James Edward), a Sister of St. Anne, for 65 years, died July 7 at Alliance Health at Marie Esther Center in this city following a period of declining health. Born in Worcester, she was the eighth of 8 children born to Arthur and Blanche (Rondeau) Boyer.

Sister Annette was predeceased by her parents and by six of her siblings: Claire Krzyzewski, Eugene, Paul, Jeanne Defosse, Renée, and Edward. She leaves to grieve her brother James, her loving nieces and nephews and extended family, her dear best friend for 70 years, Sr. Muriel Audette SSA and all her Sisters of St. Anne Family.

The Collins Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.

Barbara J. Noel, 95

GRAFTON - It is with great sadness we announce the peaceful passing of Barbara J. Noel on Thursday, July 6th, 2023, at home in Grafton, at the age of 95. Born in Milford, MA on June 10th, 1928, she was the daughter of the late Bernard and Edith (Lemanski) Noe. Barbara was the wife of Francis M. Noel, Sr. for 51 years, until his passing in 1998.

She will be forever missed by her children, Linda Gosselin

of Sutton, Suzanne Knapik and her husband Ted of Moultonborough, NH, Frank Noel, Jr. of Grafton, Karen Levia and her husband Gene of Rising Sun, MD, Mike Noel and his wife Kimberly of Grafton and her caregiver, Barbara (BJ) Alex and her husband Craig of Grafton. She leaves a sister, Patricia Russo, of Indian Rocks Beach, FL. Affectionately known as Memere, she leaves her 10 surviving grandchildren, Danielle Trainor (Scott), Ryan Gosselin (Christie), Tania Harris (Anthony), Kimberly Zelch (Kurt), Amy Leggett, Matthew Gonynor, Seth Gonynor (Julie), Robert Gonynor, Michelle Granger, Casey Koerner (Timothy), Ashley Noel (Craig Mroczka) and her 19 greatgrandchildren, one greatgreat-grandchild and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her grandson, Francis M. Noel III in 2001. Grafton assisted the family.

Frederick F. Willis III, 75

Founder of local Willy’s restaurants

BURLINGTON - It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Fred Willis, on July 4, 2023 at the age of 75 with his loving wife of 16 years Darlene (Shiner) at his side. He forged an enduring legacy as a formidable NFL running back and successful restaurant entrepreneur.

Fred leaves behind five children Drew Willis, Brett Willis, Hunt Willis, Taylor Willis, and Layne Willis and two stepchildren Angela (D’Ambrosio) O’Connor and Trevor Adams along with 9 grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister and five brothers, Kevin Willis and his wife Kathleen of Medway, Mary Bardellini and her husband Robert of Northborough, Patrick Willis and his wife Marilyn of Scottsdale, AZ, Michael Willis and his wife Joanne of Nashua, NH, Daniel Willis and his wife Mia of Franklin, Joseph Willis and his wife Andrea of Natick.

After his football career, Fred was a founding partner of Fuddruckers restaurant in 1979 and grew the franchise by

building dozens of locations nationwide. He would go on to establish several other successful restaurants throughout his life: Steamers Bar & Grill in Hyannisport, Willy’s Bar-B-Q in Westboro, Willy’s Steakhouse Grill & Sushi Bar in Shrewsbury, and Willy’s Tuscan Trattoria in Shrewsbury.

The Conway Cahill-Brodeur Funeral Home of Peabody assisted with arrangements.

Jeanne Bates, 79

SHREWSBURY - Jeanne Marie (LeBlanc) Bates, 79, of Shrewsbury, a dedicated mother and grandmother, passed away Thursday, July 6th, 2023, surrounded by the ones she loved. She joins in heaven her husband Richard A. Bates and infant daughter, Jeanne. Jeanne is survived by her three children, Christine Tonelli and her fiancé Shion Philbert with whom she lived, Nicolas Bates and his wife Kathleen Shaffer of Melrose, Richard E. Bates and his partner, Kellee Kores of Leicester; four sisters, Geraldine Hoose, and Janice Sokol both of Worcester, Annette Mitchell of Charlton and Christine Bahde of Shrewsbury; 4 grandchildren she cherished Rino Tonelli, Zachary Bates, Joseph O’Brien and Pheonix Bates; her grand dog who never left her side, Mr. T.; many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

The Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel of Worcester assisted with arrangements.

Ann M. Gallup, 90

MARLBOROUGH – Ann M. (Bucelwicz) Gallup, of Marlborough, died Sunday, July 2, 2023. She was 90. Ann was born in Brighton, a daughter of the late Michael and Anna (Pivariunas) Bucelwicz.

She leaves her daughters, Constance G. MacDonald (Daniel) of Stoneham and Rebecca H. Ford (late Albert) of Belmont; her grandchildren, Robert and Sandra MacDonald; her brother and sister, Michael BucelewiczBucell of Cambridge and Carol Neville of Brighton and her longtime companion, Marion Rabinowitz. She was predeceased by her brother Francis Richard Bucelwicz.

The Joyce Funeral Home of Waltham assisted with arrangements.

LEGAL NOTICES

HUDSON LEGAL PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

The Hudson Conservation Commission will hold a Public Hearing relative to the following filing under the Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. Chapter 131, Section 40) as requested by Shrewsbury Homes, Inc. The owner of the property is Paul Carney. The work is located at 302 Brigham Street (Map-Parcel 72-14 and 72-15). The proposed project is Resource Delineation. The Public Hearing will be held via remote video conference on August 3, 2023 at 7:00 pm. Please contact the Conservation Commission Office for information on joining the meeting: phelinek@townofhudson.org or 978562-2948.

All interested parties are urged to attend. The application can be obtained through email by contacting the Conservation Commission Office.

TOBACCO PRODUCTS & SMOKING ACCESSORIES REGULATION

The Hudson Board of Health will hold a public hearing on Monday, August 14, 2023 at 5:30 p.m. in the Town Hall Auditorium, 78 Main Street Hudson, MA. The Board will consider approving regulations “Restricting the Sale of Tobacco Products and Smoking Accessories (Regulation # 23-1).” A copy of the proposed regulation is available at the Board of Health Office located within Town Hall at 78 Main Street Hudson, MA. The Board invites public comment.

Michael Delfino Chair, Hudson Board of Health

SHREWSBURY

ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS PUBLIC HEARINGS

July 31 2023 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Guillermo Garcia, 248 Spring Street, Shrewsbury, MA for a Special Permit to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VI-Table I; to convert a single family dwelling to a two - family dwelling without changing the outward appearance upon property located at 147-151 South Street in the residence

A zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 29 Plot 06100.

July 31, 2023 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Dean Sokos, 25 Kingston Street Shrewsbury MA for a Variance to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII.B Table II to build an addition of a two car garage seventeen and seven tenths feet (17.7’) from the side yard setback upon property located at 50 Brook Street in the Rural A zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 44 Plot 006003.

July 31, 2023 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Patrick Collins, Shrewsbury Public Schools Shrewsbury, MA for Variance to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII.E.2.a to install thirty-six square feet (36 sq. ft.) sign upon property located at 557 Main Street in the Town Center zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 22 Plot 021000.

July 31, 2023 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Duncan MacRae, 17 Merriam Avenue, Shrewsbury MA for two Variances to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII. Table II, to build an addition thirty - three and one tenth feet (33.1’) from the rear yard setback and a deck twenty-three and one tenth feet (23.1’) within the forty feet (40’) rear yard setback allowed by the bylaw upon property located at 17 Merriam Avenue in the Residence B-1 zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 16 Plot 085000.

July 31 2023 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Castle Development LLC, 590 Pleasant Street Barre, MA 01005 for a Special Permit to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VITable I to construct an in-law apartment upon property located at 5 Old Barn Road in the Residence B-1 Zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 39 Plot 240003.

July 31 2023 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Lake 20 LLC, 360 Hartford Turnpike , Shrewsbury, MA for a Variance to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VI.E.5.a.to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw to place a sign within the twenty-five foot (25’) setback upon property located at 360 Hartford Turnpike in the Commercial Business zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 53 Plot 041004.

July 31, 2023 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Carlin Grenier, 45 Roman Drive, Shrewsbury MA for a Variance to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII.C.2 to build an inground pool ten feet (10’) from the rear yard setback and five feet (5’) from the side yard setback upon property located at 45 Roman Drive in the Residence B-1 zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 40 Plot 220000.

Peter C. Mulcahy, Clerk

PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that Naji Rostom, on behalf of Al-Masa Group, LLC., d/b/a IHOP, 70 Boston Turnpike, has applied to the Select Board for a Common Victualler license.

A public hearing on this application will be held on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, at 7:05pm at the Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, Selectmen’s Meeting Room,100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.

Beth Casavant, Chair Select Board

MARLBOROUGH LEGAL NOTICE

THAT, PURSUANT TO SECTION 5 OF CHAPTER 40A OF THE GENERAL LAWS, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MARLBOROUGH THAT CHAPTER 650 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF MARLBOROUGH, AS MOST RECENTLY AMENDED, BE FURTHER AMENDED AS FOLLOWS:

I. By amending Chapter 650 (Zoning), Section 650-36 (Executive Residential Overlay District), Subsection C(1), to read as follows (new text shown as underlined):

(1) The City Council shall be the permit granting authority for special permits and site plan approvals in the EROD. Special permits shall require a two-thirds-vote of the City Council, except when only a simple majority vote is required pursuant to MGL c. 40A, § 9; site plan approvals shall require a simple majority vote.

II. By amending Chapter 650 (Zoning), Section 650-36 (Executive Residential Overlay District), Subsection D(2), to read as follows (deleted text shown as strikethrough, new text shown as underlined):

(2) The following additional uses are permitted by special permit in the EROD:

(a) Multifamily dwellings, provided that the total number of units within the entire EROD shall not exceed 475 950.

(b) Restaurant, cafe with or without table service (including outside seating and service) without drive-through.

(c) Restaurant, cafe with or without table service (including outside seating and service) with drivethrough, provided that said facilities have no dedicated driveway with a curb cut on a public way.

(d) Health, sports and fitness clubs (indoor and/or outdoor) and related facilities.

(e) Retail sales and services.

(f) Brew pubs.

(g) Distilleries with attached restaurants.

(h) Accessory solar energy installa-

tions, including but not limited to rooftop systems and solar parking canopies.

(i) Uses allowed by special permit in the underlying zoning district.

(j) Mixed-use development, consisting of a combination of by right or special permit residential/business uses as listed in this section (§650-36, et seq.).

III.The effective date of these amendments shall be the date of passage.

APPROVED.

First Reading, suspended; Second Reading, adopted; Passage to Enroll, adopted;

Passage to Ordain; adopted. No objection to passage in one evening.

ADOPTED

In City Council Order No. 23-1008872B

June 26, 2023

Copies of the Zoning Ordinance may be examined and obtained at the Office of City Clerk.

Claims of invalidity by reason of any defect in the procedure of adoption of the amendment to the Zoning Ordinance set forth in this summary may only be made within ninety (90) days after this second publication of this summary.

WESTBOROUGH

LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE OF INTENT

In accordance with the Westborough Wetlands Protection Bylaw, the Conservation Commission will conduct a Public Hearing held on August 1, 2023 after 6:30 PM at the Forbes Municipal Building, 3rd Fl meeting room, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA, for a Notice of Intent for 0 Barred Owl Dr. (Map 10 Parcel 191) submitted by Silver Hollow Estates, LLC for proposed three subdivision roads and four stormwater/infiltration basins, utilities, shared septic system, and associated grading within jurisdictional resource areas.

Analyst Sr.,

IT Business

May require to travel/ telecommute. Work on full end to end delivery of SAP BW & HANA Analytics projects & solutions across the organization. Contact Sarah Okusanya, Boston Scientific Corporation, GlobalTalentAcq@bsci.com.

Please include reference H4872-00751. (EOE)

Principal Regulatory Affairs Specialist

May require to travel/ telecommute. Work on new product development/Modified device cross-functional program with successful regulatory strategies.

Contact Sarah Okusanya, Boston Scientific Corporation, GlobalTalentAcq@bsci.com.

Please include reference H4872-00310. (EOE)

Regulatory Affairs Specialist II Marlborough, MA

May require to travel/ telecommute. Develop and implements regulatory strategies for new and modified products.

Contact Sarah Okusanya, Boston Scientific Corporation, GlobalTalentAcq@bsci.com.

Please include reference H4872-00652. (EOE)

Technical Lead

May require to travel/telecommute. Leverage in-depth SAP knowledge to define the technical roadmap, use-cases and lead data management activities on the SAP BTP platform. Contact Sarah Okusanya, Boston Scientific Corporation, GlobalTalentAcq@bsci.com.

Please include reference H4872-00846. (EOE)

To place your Career Marketplace ad call Cindy at 508-366-5500

NOTICE PRAYER

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day, our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil (intention), Amen.

If you pray, three consecutive days, you will receive your intention, no matter how impossible it may seem.

Praise and Thanksgiving please the Heart of God.

~ Believer

ATTENTION:

REPAIRS

If you worked at BAY STATE ABRASIVES, Westborough, MA between 1965-1985, please contact Asbestos Investigator Sherry Day at (231) 625-2734 or sherry@SLDinvestigations. com. We are looking for people who worked with our deceased client.

COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

Mill Pond students donate $7,500 to Westborough Connects

WESTBOROUGH – West -

borough Connects has announced that it has received a $7,500 donation from Team Wonder - a cohort of three sixth-grade classes at Mill Pond Elementary School led by the teaching team of Stephanie Garrett, Lynn Thompson, Dawn Stiles, Kate Haywood, Caitlin Boissonneault and Liz Henriques.

The donation was directed for use to support communitybased programming related to substance use prevention and education in Westborough.

Garrett, a 22-year veteran teacher at Mill Pond, challenged the team of nearly 70 students to do something to “make the world a better place.” At the June 20 ceremony to announce the donation, Garrett told the students, “Well, you’ve done it.”

Through a multidisciplinary project-based learning assignment, students were tasked with planning, managing and executing multiple phases of the project, including a “Shark Tank” event where parents and caregivers served as “sharks.” They listened to students pitch their innovations, deciding which ones to “invest in.”

The students also planned a schoolwide fair, selling homemade goods and treats, with opportunities for students to learn about event planning, marketing, logistics and sales. Philanthropy and leadership were also critical skills honed for this project.

Throughout the monthslong project, students researched various topics and causes to determine where they would direct the money they were raising along the way. Ultimately, the classes agreed that, given the epidemic of substance use in today’s society, they wanted their funds to go toward education and prevention for future generations and the local community.

Team Wonder chose Westborough Connects because of its experience with community programming, particularly

Shrewsbury graduate begins

Plebe Summer

SHREWSBURY – A Shrewsbury graduate has been inducted in to the Naval Academy.

Ellie Savoie is a Shrewsbury High School graduate. She was inducted into the Naval Academy Class of 2027 on June 29.

The induction marked the beginning of six weeks of basic midshipman training during Plebe Summer. Savoie is one of about 1,200 candidates selected for the class.

Last year, the Naval Academy received about 15,000 applications for the Class of 2026.

related to substance use, as well as its local focus.

“Part of our mission is to respond to the wants and needs of the community,” said Westborough Connects Executive

Director Kelley Petralia. “You are the community. You have given us a directive on what the wants and needs are from your perspective. So, we’re here to serve those needs.”

Meet Karma

Every student is required to participate in Plebe Summer, during which the plebes aren’t allowed access to television, movies, the internet or music and restricted access to cellphones. The plebes are allowed to make three calls

during the six weeks. The pressure and rigor of Plebe Summer is designed to help them prepare for their first academic year at the Naval Academy.

The midshipmen develop basic skills in seamanship, navigation, damage control, sailing, handling yard patrol craft, infantry drill and how to shoot 9mm pistols and M-16 rifles.

On June 20, Westborough Connects received a $7,500 donation from Team Wonder, a cohort of three sixth-grade classes at Mill Pond Elementary School.

Ellie Savoie

New principal joins Saint Mary School

SHREWSBURY – Saint Mary School has welcomed its new principal, Liam Wintroath.

Wintroath joined the school, effective July 1.

Msgr. Michael Rose, who is the pastor of St. Mary’s church and the head of the school, said he was excited to have Wintroath become the principal.

“Mr. Wintroath is well prepared to lead Saint Mary School,” said Rose. “Our school will benefit greatly from his youthful enthusiasm, positive energy and commitment.”

Wintroath will be coming to the school after a search headed by Advisory Board Chair Thomas Kennedy. He recently finished his fourth year teaching at Mother Caroline Academy in Dorchester where he is also the assistant dean of students.

Originally from southern California, Wintroath and his family moved to Minnesota when he was young. He

graduated with a bachelor’s in social studies education and his Minnesota initial teaching license from St. Mary’s University in Winona, Minn. Wintroath later served in the Lasallian Volunteers program and taught social studies and physical education in Chicago. He moved to Boston in 2019 and joined the Urban Catholic Teachers Corps program through the Lynch School of Education at Boston College. He completed course work in

BVT students from Grafton perform well at SkillsUSA

2021 and received his master’s in curriculum and instruction from Boston College while also teaching at Mother Caroline Academy.

He is currently earning a master’s in education leadership and policy and Massachusetts initial licensure.

In the press release, Wintroath said that he was excited to join Saint Mary’s faith-filled community as a leader and collaborator.

“I am looking forward to building relationships with all members of the Saint Mary School community in order to best serve their needs,” he said. “I am eager to step into the principal role as a leader that is for and with others in the continued work of living out the mission of Saint Mary School. My door will always be open.”

Saint Mary serves students preschool through eighth grade. For more information, visit https://school.stmarysparish.org/.

UPTON – Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School students proved their vocational-technical ability at the 59th annual SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference in Atlanta June 19-23.

The event is the world’s largest showcase of career and technical education students.

The highlight of the conference is the SkillsUSA Championships, where more than 6,500 outstanding career and technical education students — all state contest winners from across the nation — compete in 110 hands-on skill and leadership competitions. Students work against the clock and each other, proving their expertise in occupations such as electronics, computer-aided drafting, precision machining, medical assisting and culinary arts.

In the third and final stage of the SkillsUSA competition series, BVT students competed

Our students continually strive to perfect the skills needed to compete.

Michael Fitzpatrick Superintendent-Director

with impressive results. Once again, the student competitors demonstrated their careertechnical expertise and proudly claimed one gold, three silver, and three bronze medals. All contestants who medaled or met a threshold contest score for their event as an indicator of proficiency were awarded skill point certificates.

The following BVT students from Grafton were honored:

Gold: Caitlin Brown, health occupations professional portfolio.

5th place: Grant Purcell, career pathways showcase/ industry and engineering; and Ava Mills, career pathways showcase/industry and engineering.

“Our students continually strive to perfect the skills needed to compete against the best vocational-technical students in the SkillsUSA district, state and national championships,” said Superintendent-Director Michael Fitzpatrick. “In 2023, our students proved their technical skills are among the best in the country by earning 173 medals at all three levels.”

More details are available at www.valleytech.k12.ma.us/ skillsusa.

Our local team has so much to offer.

Liam Wintroath

COMMUNITY SPORTS

Shrewsbury edges Northborough in American Legion playoff pitchers’ duel

By Evan Walsh Reporter

WORCESTER – Two southpaw pitchers were the story of last Saturday’s American Legion baseball matchup between Shrewsbury Post 397 and Northborough Post 234.

The game was close throughout, but Shrewsbury produced just enough timely hitting to outlast Northborough, eventually winning the contest by a score of 2-1.

Northborough’s Cooper Hagen was sharp from the start, retiring seven of the first eight batters he faced. Over six innings of work, Hagen struck out six and limited Shrewsbury’s offense to two runs.

“I knew this was a good team… I knew they were tough hitters. I knew I had to mix it up as much as I could — get them as off balance as possible. I knew I had to do that with my off speed and pitches that work best,” Hagen said.

Although Shrewsbury’s bats looked out of sync for most of the game, the team managed to

STOPPING STITCHING

cobble together some offense in the bottom of the third inning. It happened quickly: Andrew Peris hit an infield single, stole second base and sprinted home after James Benestad sharply singled the ball into right field.

In the bottom of the fifth, Peris and Benestad were involved in another attack. After

Deegan Miller doubled, Peris successfully bunted down the first-base line, sending Miller to third. An RBI groundout by Benestad gave Shrewsbury an insurance run.

“He’s one of our best players,” Shrewsbury head coach Frank Vaccaro said of Benestad, who had both of the team’s RBIs. “He’s been great all year.

[He’s a] leader, quiet, [and] sets a good example. He’s been hitting all year.”

“We got big hits in big spots,” Vaccaro added. “I knew it was going to be a tough game. Their pitcher is exceptional.”

Luckily for Shrewsbury, Tedy Cove — its lefty starter — was equally as incredible, pitching 5.1 innings, striking out four and surrendering one run. Cove cruised through the bulk of the game; in three of his first four innings he retired the lineup in order.

If Cove could have an inning back, it would likely be the sixth. After allowing backto-back singles to open the inning, Cove would hurl an errant pitch. Northborough had its best opportunity of the night: second and third with only one out.

Jackson Gamache capitalized, singling to right to cut the lead to 2-1. Shrewsbury turned to pitcher Ryan Walton to escape the runners-on-thecorners, one-out jam.

On one of Walton’s first

pitches, Gamache took off for second base. Post 397 catcher Pat McManus fired the ball across the diamond to nail Gamache by about one step. The play meant Northborough went into the seventh still behind Shrewsbury.

Vaccaro commended Post 234 team for “fighting until the end.”

Down to its last three outs, Northborough kept fighting. After Cole Jones (who went 2-3 on the day) singled, an error and groundout put the tying run at third base with two outs. Northborough grounded out and couldn’t capitalize.

“The kids did a great job of bringing a playoff mindset today and every inning doing the best they could to apply pressure. We hit some hard balls at people, but in the end, I thought every inning we competed and gave ourselves a chance to win,” Northborough head coach Ken MacDonald said.

“Tip your hat to Shrewsbury. They made more plays than we did,” he added.

SUPER CROSSWORD

Answers on page 22

Shrewsbury Post 397’s Tedy Cove delivers a pitch.

PHOTO/EVAN WALSH

Northborough handles Hudson in American Legion baseball

By Evan Walsh Reporter

HUDSON – With 17 total runs and over two dozen hits, July 11’s American Legion baseball matchup between Northborough Post 234 and Hudson Post 100 featured plenty of offense.

After seven action-packed innings, Northborough prevailed, defeating the Hudson squad 11-6.

Hudson drew first blood. After Cal Thompson took ball four, he stole second, reached third on an error and sprinted home after the ball got away from the catcher. Hudson had scored before registering its first hit, and after the bottom of the first inning, Hudson led 1-0.

It didn’t stay that way for long. The Northborough offense hit three straight singles, and after an untimely error by the Hudson defense, all three baserunners eventually crossed home plate. After Northborough starting pitcher Ryan Holman (3.2 IP, 2H, 2ER, 4K) shut down Hudson in the bottom of the second, Post 234 led 3-1 and held all the momentum.

Northborough did more dam-

age in the next inning. After two singles and one walk, Emilio Manz stepped up to the plate with the bases loaded. Manz (2-3, 4RBI) would smoke the ball into left field for a three-RBI, basesclearing double.

“Two to zero count, I was really just thinking fastball. I was just trying to square one up there,” Manz told the Community Advocate after the game. “He left it kind of over the middle of the plate — a big mistake by him — and I punished him. That was about it.”

Manz’s hit blew the game

open and knocked Hudson starting pitcher Jason Jakobson (2.1 IP, 9H, 7ER, 1K) out of the game. Post 234 led 7-1 after three innings. Hudson fought back. Singles by Post 100 standouts Mikey DiCarlo (2-4, 2RBI) and Bobby Long Jr. (2-4, RBI, BB) plated two runs in the bottom of the fourth to narrow Northborough’s lead to 7-3. In the fifth inning, Hudson had the bases loaded with one out – one swing away from potentially tying the game – but failed to capitalize.

“Obviously, we got in a hole early. They got hits early. We

didn’t, and that kind of dictated the rest of the game,” said Ryan Bowen, the head coach of Post 100. “I thought we put together good at-bats for the most part –we left a lot of guys on base – but it’s baseball. We have another game tomorrow. It is what it is.”

Northborough would — once again — put the game out of reach in the sixth inning. Four hits (including a two-RBI double by Joseph Hayes) and two walks led to three more runs for Post 234. The score was now 10-3. Northborough would tack on another run in the seventh.

Peter Ward’s sixth-inning single drew Post 100 within six runs, and Hudson started to rally in the seventh; DiCarlo hammered an RBI double into left field to make the game 11-5. For the second time in three innings, Hudson had the bases loaded with one out, but once again left men on base, only managing an RBI groundout.

Northborough would win 11-6.

“I thought the kids had energy and did a great job against a great team,” said Ken MacDonald, the head coach of Post 234. “We had some great timely hits… That’s a

really good team — they can really hit — so we needed to keep getting runs.”

Manz also mentioned the team’s energy after the game.

“I feel like we bring the energy… We need to string together hits — singles, doubles, things like that. That’s really going to make us go far,” he said.

MacDonald said that the team treated this matchup like it was the playoffs. Northborough hopes to use the momentum from this win to “get going.”

“This team has a lot of talent. We had a great start to the season. We hit a little bit of a rut in the middle, and we’re finishing strong. This team has the capability of making a deep run in the playoffs. We just need to play the game the right way and on our terms,” he said.

As for Hudson, Bowen was extremely confident in his team going forward – even after the loss.

“I’m not really worried about any aspect of our team. I think it’s just a matter of putting it together. Today we didn’t have it, and it showed from inning one, and that was it,” he said.

PHOTO/DEB ELLIS DESIGNS

Hudson Post 100’s Cal Thompson slides past the tag, successfully stealing second base.

PHOTOS/EVAN WALSH

Westborough youth weightlifting team competes in Colorado

By Evan Walsh Reporter

WESTBOROUGH – In late June, Colorado welcomed hundreds of weightlifting groups from across the country – including one team based in Westborough – for the 2023 Weightlifting Youth National Championships.

Led by coaches Joe Black, Olivia Sassetti and Caroline Kent, the team consists of 17 participants (16 girls and one boy) between the ages of 12 and 18. The group sent nine qualifiers to the national stage in Colorado.

According to Black, the athletes were excited to compete. Some — especially those who had qualified for nationals in previous years — had their sights set on personal records, podium spots and qualifying for future competitions. Many of the team members had spent months and years preparing for the event.

“I think they’re excited. They’re looking really good. The whole point is to lift as much as you possibly can… and they’ve been handling heavy weights really well lately,” Black told the Community Advocate prior to the competition.

Although nobody in the group landed on the podium, many of the athletes had exciting and impressive achievements. The group had three top-five finishes (two fourthplace, one fifth-place), set 21 personal records, and several athletes qualified for future meets.

So, what does it take to be an outstanding weightlifter?

“Consistency, showing up,

and doing the work — that usually leads to good things,” Black said. “Then, outside of the gym, that’s where you recover. If folks are eating, sleeping [and] trying not to stress out, that all plays a part… We’re trying to get stronger and we’re trying to make sure our technique helps us lift weight as efficiently as possible.”

Weightlifting is an individual sport — the athletes lift the weights on their own — but when combined with an incredibly familiar and supportive group of fellow com-

petitors, the sport becomes an interesting mix between individual and team athletics.

“We have a team, but it’s an individual sport too,” Black said. “It’s you versus you. You can be competitive with it, but from a team aspect you have that support system.”

Ella Gamache, a 17-year-old member of the team who had competed nationally three times prior to Colorado, said she enjoys weightlifting because the sport is accessible to everyone.

“I never really got into any

of the ‘traditional’ high school sports — but at this place, you can come in and everyone can start no matter where [they’re] at,” Gamache said. “It’s a sport where you can work for your-

self.”

“Whatever you put into it, you get that out of it,” Black added. “You’re rewarded for your hard work. You can really see those results, and it leads to good things. I like [weightlifting] for the confidence that it helps folks build.”

Rylie Rohloff, another 17-year-old athlete who has now competed nationally four times, said she enjoys the team aspect of the sport the most.

“My favorite part of weightlifting is probably the entire team. It’s such a great space to just be able to lift. No matter whether you’re competing, not competing, having fun, or taking it seriously, the team is always there for you,” Rohloff said.

“While [the sport] is individual, it’s so hard to do it by yourself,” she said.

Gamache agreed.

“I’m really excited to see my teammates lift and to hang out with them,” she said before the competition.

Dr. Eric Bryan

Weightlifting team members during one of their practices leading up to the competition.

“

Whatever you put into it, you get that out of it. You’re rewarded for your hard work. You can really see those results, and it leads to good things.

Joe Black Coach

PHOTO/EVAN WALSH