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Marlborough Hudson

Community Cupboard director to serve as Labor Day grand marshal

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – It’s a Tuesday afternoon at the Marlborough Community Cupboard in the Walker Building.

PHOTO/MAUREEN SULLIVAN

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – Green Gold Group recently took over the former Local Roots marijuana dispensary at 910 Boston Post Road East.

It has begun to expand its services, and it wishes to be open longer and have new signage.

While the City Council’s Urban Affairs Committee had no objections to Green Gold’s first two requests, it had some trepidations about the signage.

During its July 31 meeting, the committee discussed whether the new signage could be allowed under current zoning regulations for the district.

James McMahon, the attorney for Green Gold, showed several signs similar to what Green

Green Gold | 15

There were no clients scheduled to visit that day, but it was still very busy.

Director Barbara LaGrenade just brought in 50 backpacks filled with school supplies, a donation from the local Renewal by Anderson office. After she stacked the donations at one end of the office, she and Nilsa Roman went to their desks, helping the less fortunate access food, clothing, school supplies and other essentials year-round.

PHOTO/MAUREEN SULLIVAN

By Sarah Freedman Contributing Writer

HUDSON – The Select Board voted on July 31 to approve a contract with Construction Monitoring Services (CMS) to provide management services for the new Department of Public Works (DPW) facility project.

That DPW project was approved at the

2023 Annual Town Meeting for the amount of $817,000.

CMS performed project management services for the public safety building in Hudson where the Hudson Police Department operates, Executive Assistant Thomas Gregory said.

CMS served Hudson in 2016 to 2017 as project manager on the combined building for the

Join us for Outside Dining on our Patio www.kennedyspub.com KENNEDYSMARKET.COM 247 Maple St. Marlboro 508-481-8050 Scan QR code for full menu Restaurant & Market

Green Gold Group is located on Boston Post Road East.

Community Snapshot

St. Mary’s Syriac Orthodox Church holds annual Mediterranean Festival

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – Last weekend was special for St. Mary’s Syriac Orthodox Church in Shrewsbury.

From Aug. 11 to 13, the church held the second annual Mediterranean Festival. The event was particularly significant because it coincides with the church’s 100-year anniversary in October. The patriarch of the Syriac Orthodox community will visit the church for that occasion.

“This is a big thing for us,” said George Hanna, one of the volunteers and organizers of the festival.

Planning for the event started as soon as the last festival ended.

The church estimated that more than 5,000 people would attend the three-day event.

The event featured authentic Mediterranean cuisine, including shawarma, kabobs, stuffed grape leaves, and baklava. Volunteers helped prepare thousands of fresh meals for the hungry event attendees.

Volunteers served fresh food throughout the three-day event.

music from “The Prince” Marwan Zgheib, George Kentar, and DJ Roy C. For children, the festival had bounce houses and sugary treats (cotton candy and snow cones).

WESTBOROUGH – Andrew Koenigsberg captured this incredible photo of a red-tailed hawk in Westborough. Do you want to see your photo in the Community Advocate? Email it to news@communityadvocate.com.

The Community Advocate’s Policy on Letters to the Editor

“[The meeting after the festival], we’ll see what we did good, what we did bad, and where our weaknesses are. We try to enhance it. This exact festival — [we planned] at least three or four months, but there’s ideas that started from last year,” said volunteer and organizer Henry Bahnan.

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Countless church members volunteered their time to help run the festival. The organization printed 100 volunteer T-shirts; they were practically all gone before the event.

“They love their church — and that’s how you get all your volunteers,” Bahnan said.

The event also featured live

“This is open for everybody, but it’s very important to know that this is a family festival. We all respect and enjoy each other,” Bahnan said. “Come be yourself, with your shorts, with your T-shirt. Have your cigar, some drinks, some food. Enjoy the atmosphere.”

St. Mary’s Syriac Orthodox Church is located at 1 Industrial Drive in Shrewsbury. Visit https://www.facebook.com/ SaintM/ for more information.

Rhum or Rum

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Rhum is the French word for rum and refers to “rhum agricole,” a type of rum that is made from freshly pressed sugarcane juice. This lessprocessed base ingredient contributes to a more vegetal, grassy profile, lower proof, and more delicate flavor. Rhum agricole is produced on a few French Caribbean islands and is often infused with tropical fruits and spices than can add luscious versatility when used in mixed drinks. Rum, on the other hand, is sourced from molasses, a byproduct of sugar refining. These rums tend to be sweeter, have higher alcohol by volume, and are manufactured worldwide. Aged rum is delicious sipped neat. Darker or spiced rums make good punches, and light rums are ideal for cocktails..

Rum is a versatile spirit, and rum cocktails include some of the greatest classics. The Spirits department at JULIO’S LIQUORS carries many hardto-find items from single malt scotches to high-end vodkas and gins. We also house the Vigilant Smoke Shop, a stateof-the-art, full-service smoke shop with a knowledgeable, well trained friendly staff to cater to all of your tobacco needs. Please call 508-366-1942 for more information, or visit us at 140 Turnpike Rd., Rt. 9 East HINT: When high-proof rums are used in mixing cocktails, the cocktails should be shaken longer so that the alcohol does not overpower the other ingredients.

If you like our Un-cork’d article every week, check out our radio show & podcast –It’s The Liquor Talking

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Ryan Maloney, owner

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Community Cupboard director to serve as Labor Day grand marshal

nual Labor Day parade.

“It’s just beginning to sink in,” said the longtime director of the Marlborough Community Cupboard. “It’s such an honor – the parade? That’s like, wow.”

“We are proud to select Barbara LaGrenade as this year’s grand marshal. LaGrenade is committed to fighting food insecurity and offers various

programs to help Marlborough residents in need. Her longstanding dedication to helping families is deeply appreciated,” said Mayor Arthur Vigeant.

LaGrenade has been the director at the Community Cupboard – a service of the United Way of Tri-County – for more than 13 years.

The cupboard offers nonperishable items, dairy, meats,

produce and breads, both for “in-person” shopping on “open market” Wednesdays and a drive-through option – something LaGrenade introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Over the past year, the cupboard has served an average of 800 families per month – lower than the 950 families served during the pandemic, but still a lot of people seeking help.

LaGrenade said that high prices for food and fuel are the reasons behind the increase; groceries from the cupboard help these families pay for other expenses such as housing and utilities.

Thanks to the cupboard’s backpack program, which is part of the United Way’s Tools for Schools, these families also don’t have to pay for school

supplies. The cupboard plans to distribute 400 backpacks to local families.

The cupboard also runs the feed a family program, which distributes a complete turkey dinner for the holidays; a senior mobile market, in which senior citizens may have their grocer-

ies delivered; the ready to read program, with literacy kits; and a clothing outlet with outfits for adults and children.

In addition, the cupboard helps clients file for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits, fuel assistance and more.

LaGrenade credited the 85 volunteers who keep the cupboard running.

“If it weren’t for them, I couldn’t do it,” she said.

“I am very proud of her,” said Roman, who works for the city through the South Middlesex Opportunity Council. “She does so much for the community.”

LaGrenade said she’s looking forward to the parade.

“I hope it doesn’t rain, and it’s not 115 degrees,” she said.

About the parade

There will be an opening ceremony at 11:45 a.m. at Lincoln and Pleasant streets.

The parade will step off at noon at the intersection of Pleasant and Lincoln streets.

Grand Marshal | from page 1

Hudson picks company to manage DPW facility project

police department and DPW.

“They submitted a statement of qualification that ranked at the top among about [six],” Gregory said.

The firm was ranked by a review committee, and Gregory then negotiated the final contract. He believed that “they’re going to do a great job.”

He noted that any public building project valued at over $1.5 million requires an owner’s project manager from start to completion.

Gregory added, “This is an excellent firm. We’ll be well served.”

Culverts

The DPW has also been busy tackling the maintenance and updating of the culverts in Hudson. To this end, the Select Board approved and authorized the signature of a contract with Woodard and Curran for the Brigham Street culvert and related permitting for $135,000.

The board approved the reallocation of American Rescue

Plan Act (ARPA) funds to cover the design of the culvert replacement. Gregory explained there was a number of ARPA projects where unexpended balances will remain, such as at the closing of the Main Street culvert bridge and Green Street drainage projects.

“The intent here is to … ask the Select Board to approve transferring funds over to a critically needed project,” Gregory said.

The construction cost for the project will be funded via the stormwater enterprise fee revenue through borrowing, Gregory said.

The ARPA fund transfer was necessary, Select Board Chair Scott Duplisea noted, so there would be enough money to begin immediately on the culvert project.

Gregory said, “There is a sense of urgency with this project.”

DPW Director Eric Ryder said some of the ARPA funds will be used for an emergency pump for the Brigham Street

culvert area. He noted the “significant rainfalls in the last month” and said the pump would be used during construction and reconstruction of the culvert.

Ryder said, “It’s an emergency precaution for that area.”

The project technically covers two culverts on the street, and if one fails, stormwater flows across Park Street and out to the brook out back near Elks Lodge #959. He said although they want to look at replacing

the Brigham Street culverts now, there is a larger goal to do the Park Street culvert area, which would mean a total cost of “close to $5 million.”

Ryder said they are anticipating around $1 to $1.2 million for the Brigham Street culvert project and approving the ARPA funding would enable them to start work. He noted an article would be on the warrant for the November Special Town Meeting for the borrowing authorization for funding

via stormwater revenue.

Designing would start immediately, said Ryder, with the anticipation for the November Town Meeting. As soon as it is ready to go out to bid, there could be an early spring or summer start to the project.

He also noted that in the Main Street culvert project, the under bridge work has been completed on the T.C. Lando’s side with a paving schedule of Aug. 10, weather permitting, to take three to four days.

Community Cupboard director to serve as Labor Day grand marshal

It proceeds west onto Lincoln Street, south onto Broad Street and east onto West Main Street. The parade will continue down Granger Boulevard and briefly turns onto Main Street. The parade will turn south onto Maple Street, ending at the intersection of Bolton Street (Route 85) and Maple Street.

Due to ongoing construction, the parade will not go down Main Street.

The shuttle bus pickup will be in front of the American Legion Post 132 between Shawmut and Greendale avenues along Maple Street. Buses will run continuously from 10 to 11:45 a.m. There will be no shuttle from the end of the parade back

to the start after the parade.

The First Church Youth Group will have a lemonade stand at Granger Boulevard, and the American Legion will serve up hamburgers, hot dogs and sausages in the parking lot at Maple and Shawmut.

For information on the parade, visit https://marlboroughlabordayparade.com/.

Brighten their day…

Grand Marshal | from page 4

DPW | from page 1

Westborough residents volunteer for the Peace Corps

By Maureen Sullivan

Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – John

O’Connell wants to be a doctor someday.

But not now.

For the next 27 months, he and his girlfriend, Isabelle Davenport, will be part of the Peace Corps. They will be assistant English teachers in Colombia.

“I was motivated to join the Peace Corps by my interest in bolstering my linguistic and cultural competencies ahead of joining the medical field,” said O’Connell. “I am most looking forward to becoming fluent in Spanish, as well as gaining new friendships and experiencing a new culture.”

O’Connell has lived in Westborough since 2009, attending Mill Pond Elementary, Gibbons Middle and Westborough High schools before graduating in 2017.

He is a graduate of the University of San Diego with a bachelor’s degree in biology.

Office Space

He said he was thinking about applying for medical school but “not immediately.”

Davenport was about to volunteer for the Peace Corps, and suggested that O’Connell could volunteer as well.

The first steps toward volunteering included submitting a personal statement, resume and letters of recommendation, along with an interview and what O’Connell called “rigorous” medical clearances.

In February, O’Connell and Davenport were notified of their acceptance. They were

supposed to go to Peru, but they were switched to Colombia because O’Connell has a peanut allergy.

He explained that in Peru, peanuts are part of the native cuisine, and he and Davenport would have been housed with host families. Rather than inconveniencing their potential hosts, O’Connell and Davenport will have their own apartment in Colombia.

In late August, O’Connell and Davenport will head to Fort Lauderdale, Fla., for three months of training. This will

include intensive language courses, along with learning about the local culture.

O’Connell and Davenport are among the first Peace Corps volunteers to head overseas following the COVID-19 pandemic; in March 2020 the agency had to evacuate nearly 7,000 volunteers from more than 60 countries.

The Peace Corps was founded by President John F. Kennedy in 1961. Their volunteers carry out people-to-people public service and citizen diplomacy at the grassroots level.

Drawn from all corners of the United States, volunteers work to address challenges in agriculture, community economic development, education, environment, health, and youth development across the globe.

Currently, the agency is recruiting volunteers to serve in 59 countries around the world at the request of host country governments to connect through the Peace Corps’

grassroots approach across communities and cultures. Volunteers have already returned to a total of 55 countries around the world.

“I am extremely proud [of them],” said Tanim Choudhury, public affairs specialist for the Peace Corps. “It’s a testament to ongoing service. We have 1,700 volunteers out there.

“We didn’t know when we were going to be back in the field, and where to fill the gaps,” he said.

According to Choudhury, potential volunteers must be U.S. citizens, but a college degree is not necessary. He added that retirees and those in “mid-career” are encouraged to apply.

“We would absolutely welcome you,” he said. Those interested should apply to the Peace Corps via www.peacecorps.gov/apply. Apply before Oct. 1 to make a global connection by mid2024.

John O’Connell is heading to Colombia as a volunteer for the Peace Corps.

PHOTO/MAUREEN SULLIVAN

Select Board eyes new timeline for town admin. search

By Laura Hayes

Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH – The search for the next town administrator may begin around Labor Day.

In late July, the Select Board announced that Courtney Friedland had withdrew from consideration to become Northborough’s next town administrator. The board offered her condi-

SELCO open house Aug. 18

SHREWSBURY – Community members are invited to attend SELCO’s open house at their location at 30 Municipal Drive.

The open house will be Friday, Aug. 18 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

It will feature a bounce house, tours of SELCO’s substation, food trucks and kids activities, including touch a truck.

Mastersingers to present Summer Sing

WESTBOROUGH – The Assabet Valley Mastersingers have announced their Summer Sing event, taking place on Monday, Aug. 21, at 7:30 p.m.

Music enthusiasts and choral aficionados are invited to join the group for an evening of harmony at Congregation B’nai Shalom.

The featured work for this year’s Summer Sing is Ralph Vaughan Williams’ masterpiece, “Dona Nobis Pacem.” This choral composition promises to captivate the audience with its rich harmonies and emotive storytelling.

Under the skillful direction of conductor Robert Eaton, the Assabet Valley Mastersingers will showcase their remarkable talent, alongside professional soloists, while inviting the public to sing along. Bring your own score or borrow one at the door.

Admission is $10 at the door.

For more information, visit www.avmsingers.org or email manager@avmsingers.org.

tional employment on July 6.

During the July 31 meeting, there was consensus among Select Board members to continue to use Municipal Resources Inc. for the search. The consulting firm had conducted the first search.

At the meeting, the board discussed whether to begin a second search immediately or to wait.

Select Board Chair Mitch Cohen suggested that the town wait to begin to start the search until early September and allow the candidate pool to refresh.

“[That would] get us out of the summer season when maybe people are thinking more about jobs and less about summer vacations,” he said.

“It makes sense to take a little breather, especially since

August [is when] families are on vacation or getting children ready for school,” said Select Board member Julianne Hirsh.

Plus, the screening committee may have summer plans, too, she added.

Cohen said that MRI can and is expected to begin looking for a new interim town administrator in the anticipation that current interim Bob Reed may

want or need to leave before a permanent administrator joins the town.

Cohen noted that Northborough’s charter limited the duration of an interim town administrator to six months.

“I imagine if we needed to keep an interim – whether it be Bob or anybody else – longer, we could probably figure out some way to do that,” he said.

Spirits Wine

War of the Rosés

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – Wendy

Mickel is enjoying retirement.

In the months after she left the town clerk’s office, she renovated her longtime residence on Forbes Street and recently became a grandmother for the second time.

“Retirement’s the best thing I’ve ever done,” she said. “I’ve never had this kind of freedom.”

Mickel is making room on her newly-renovated walls for a pair of citations that honor her as a Commonwealth Heroine.

She received the honor on June 23 from the state’s Commission on the Status of Women. Because of the birth of her

grandchild, she had to miss the ceremony in Boston.

Mickel was nominated by state reps. Hannah Kane (RShrewsbury) and Kate Donaghue, (D-Westborough).

“I was very surprised and

honored,” she said.

In addition to her work as town clerk, Mickel was a member of the town’s 275th and 300th anniversary committees, and she is currently a member of the town’s Master Plan Imple-

mentation Committee.

Until recently, Mickel was active with the Westborough Food Pantry; she served as treasurer for 25 years, and she helped organize an annual golf tournament to raise funds for the pantry. She decided to step away in order to help her daughter and grandchildren.

“She served the town of Westborough for nearly 30 years, dedicating her life to assisting and supporting the residents of Westborough and making sure the town has been able to hold efficient elections over the years,” according to a press release announcing this year’s Commonwealth Heroines.

“Wendy Mickel’s consistent civic engagement has

State honors Wendy Mickel as Commonwealth Heroine Back to Sch l

enhanced the Westborough community tremendously for the past 30 years,” said Kane.

“I am so grateful for her years of dedicated public service and her diligence in maintaining effective elections. Her commitment to the town of Westborough is honorable and commendable, and I am deeply appreciative of her volunteer work as treasurer of the Westborough Food Pantry.”

The Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women is an independent state agency that was legislatively created in 1998 to advance women of the Commonwealth to full equality in all areas of life and to promote their rights and opportunities.

Wendy Mickel, center, with state reps. Kate Donaghue, left, and Hannah Kane, right.

Shrewsbury’s Beth Murray named 2023 Commonwealth Heroine

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – In late June, lifelong Shrewsbury resident Beth Murray was recognized for years of hard work and community involvement.

Murray, and dozens of other women from around the state, were honored as 2023 Commonwealth Heroines.

Murray, who has worked at the senior center for the last 16 years, was nominated by Rep. Hannah Kane (R-Shrewsbury). Kane, Select Board Chair Beth Casavant and Council on Aging Director Hollie Lucht surprised Murray with an official certificate at the senior center.

“Hannah [Kane] is a huge, huge supporter of Meals on Wheels and a lot of things for seniors, so she, I think, spearheaded this,” Murray told the Community Advocate. “Beth Casavant has always been the same; she’s very involved and helps the seniors in any way she can. Hollie, the director, I can’t say enough good things about her.”

“Beth Murray is a beacon of light in the Shrewsbury community,” said Kane in a press release. “Beth brings her sense of humor, friendly demeanor, and kindness to everything that she does, and I am thankful for Beth’s passion and dedication to the residents in the town.”

Murray hasn’t been in the limelight throughout her time at the senior center, but that doesn’t mean her work goes unnoticed.

Murray’s day starts early — sometimes as early at 7:45 a.m. — but there’s lots of work to be done. As the Senior Center’s Meals on Wheels manager, Murray spends her mornings traveling the town to distribute hot meals. Her route includes more than 160 people per day.

Meals on Wheels is more than just food delivery. During her route, Murray takes time to speak to people — many of whom may have little daily social interaction — and check on their well-being. Sometimes, Murray finds that people have fallen or wandered away.

“I just love seniors. I always have. They’ve got interesting stories to tell,” Murray said. “A lot of these people, most of these people — especially on my Meals on Wheels route — don’t have relatives, or if they have relatives, they’ve moved

hind Worcester. Murray works closely with the Elder Services of Worcester Area (ESWA) to coordinate the program. Murray couldn’t think more highly of the organization.

“I couldn’t do it without [them],” she said.

them.”

She’s always working on finding activities people enjoy.

elsewhere in the country. The only person they see sometimes is the mailman.”

Shrewsbury’s Meals on Wheels program is the second-largest in the area just be-

Murray’s shift ends at around 1 p.m., but that doesn’t mean her time at the Senior Center is over. As soon as she’s available, Murray finds Lucht and asks how she can help. She spends practically the rest of the day helping Lucht out around the building.

“I love it here. I just love it here,” Murray said, smiling from ear to ear. “If there’s something that needs to be done, I just pitch in. I really love to help

So far, Murray has brought movies, BINGO, cards, and other exciting programming to senior center patrons. Murray seemed especially proud of her holiday events, including activities on Valentine’s Day and St. Patrick’s Day.

“I just make it welcoming. I want it to be in a place I want to be in,” said Murray.

One of Murray’s biggest initiatives was establishing the garden behind the senior center. The garden includes colorful plants, numerous decorations and one large granite bench. Set away from the road and under the forest canopy,

the garden offers a shady, serene environment for patrons to enjoy. Murray is no stranger to gardening — she manages seven gardens at her house.

After hours of volunteering and Meals on Wheels, Murray typically returns home in the late afternoon. Even after the busy day, Murray is often already looking forward to returning to the senior center again tomorrow.

“I know I’ve had a good day. I just like to get involved… This is what I’m really interested in,” she said. “This truly isn’t a job for me; it’s something that I really love. I don’t get up in the morning and say… ‘Is it Saturday yet?’ I don’t do that because I love coming to work.”

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Beth Murray stands in front of the Shrewsbury Senior Center.

PHOTO/EVAN WALSH

NORTHBOROUGH THEN NOW

By Zenya Molnar History Columnist

NORTHBOROUGH – What do tortoiseshell, horn, and celluloid have in common? They were all used to manufacture combs, jewelry, and buttons, some of the primary industries in Northborough from the mid1800s to early 1900s. In fact, in 1850, out of 15 industrial establishments in Northborough, six of them were comb factories.

There were over 15 comb makers in Northborough, the

earliest manufacturers being Wilder Bush and Silas Haynes, who in 1839 bought 25 acres surrounding Whitney Street

and housed their factory on Howard Brook, which runs into Cold Harbor Brook. They made ornamental combs and sold

raw materials, including bone, to other manufacturers.

Other prominent comb manufacturers were Whitaker and Proctor, whose factory was located at 5 Blake Street, where Sawyer’s Bowladrome is currently, and Farwell comb factory on Hudson Street. Whitaker and Proctor manufactured several

Back to Sch l

different types of goods, including side and back combs, hair and braid pins, buckles, and buttons, and was run by Josiah Proctor and Nathaniel Currier Whitaker. Their partnership lasted from April 1880 to August 1888, after which Proctor continued the business until he died in 1892. Proctor’s wife, Lizzie, and daughter, Emma, then took over the business.

Proctor employees, numbering around 30, worked 10 hours per day six days per week. The factories used resources from Northborough, such as dry goods, shipping, and lamp and oil firms, to support their business. Whitaker and Proctor’s traveling salesmen sold goods in New York, Pennsylvania, and as far away as St. Louis, Chicago, and Cincinnati.

Thanks to Bessie Marjorie Haskell for her 1905 essay about the Farwell comb factory for a high school course, we have a detailed view of the manufacturing process based on her accounts from a school trip. The shop and factory, the largest in town, was located at the corner of 56 Hudson Street and River Street and produced over 90 styles of combs, shawl and braid pins, bracelets, cuff buttons, vest chains, and necklaces.

CommunityAdvocate

Haskell described the factory as very loud with a pervasive odor of celluloid (synthetic plastic). To start, sheets of material such as horn and celluloid were cut to size and then were put into a machine that cut the teeth. All machines were run by water power. Male workers used small emery wheels to smooth and shape the teeth. Afterwards, the tops of the combs were fixed, curves were cut, and then women bent the combs into their shape. Subsequently, the combs were polished with designs using printers’ ink and engraved. Once the combs were polished for a final time and dipped into acetic acid to provide a glossy finish, they were set to dry and then packaged in boxes, wrapped in tissue paper, and tied with ribbon, ready to be sold.

After more than a successful half-century in Northborough, the button and comb industry came to an end as cheaper raw materials and foreign competition became factors. The Proctor factory closed in 1903, and the Farwell factory was the last tortoiseshell jewelry manufacturer in Northborough, closing in 1911.

The Farwell comb factory, at the corner of 56 Hudson Street and River Street, was the largest of the more than 15 comb factories in Northborough during the industry’s heyday from the mid-1800s to early 1900s.

A selection of combs produced by the Proctor comb factory.

PHOTOS/COURTESY OF THE NORTHBOROUGH HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Hospital opens little library with health and wellness books

Marlborough Hospital Golf

Class on Monday, Aug. 28, at the Haven Country Club in Boylston.

The proceeds will go toward a new Brevera breast biopsy system, which is the world’s first and only solution to combine vacuum-assisted breast tissue collection, realtime imaging, verification and advanced post-biopsy handling — all in one, integrated system. This will improve the patient experience at the Women’s Imaging Center by offering a quicker and more comfortable procedure to all patients.

Register via the hospital’s website, www.ummhealth. org/marlborough-hospital.

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – The latest addition to UMass Memorial Health-Marlborough Hospital is something that can be taken — and given — freely.

The Little Free Library by the main entrance will offer a variety of health and wellness books for patients and community members who may not otherwise have access to these materials.

The library opened on Aug. 3 with Mayor Arthur Vigeant and Superintendent Mary Murphy on hand to help stock it.

According to Ellen Carlucci, the hospital’s vice president of development, marketing and communications, the new library will be “continually monitored and stocked” by the hospital.

Rebecca Osterfield, a community health and outreach worker at the hospital, will oversee the library. This includes ensuring that the books are “culturally sensitive.”

Some of these books will be in Spanish and Portuguese; the hospital has also placed an order for books in Haitian Creole.

Carlucci said outreach such as the Little Free Library has been a welcome change after three years of pandemic-related testing, vaccines and other programs.

“We’re back to help educate people about health and wellness,” she said.

Golf tournament

UMass Memorial Health

will present the 27th annual

Mayor Arthur Vigeant, left, and Schools Superintendent Mary Murphy, center, join staff from Marlborough Hospital in opening the Little Free Library near the main entrance on Aug. 3.

UMass Memorial Health-Marlborough Hospital opened a Little Free Library near the main entrance on Aug. 3.

PHOTOS/MAUREEN SULLIVAN

Thrive names three new directors

MARLBOROUGH – Thrive

Support & Advocacy, a nonprofit empowering youth and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Central Massachusetts, has announced that it has expanded its board of directors to 10 with the election of three new members.

Business executives Christine Mariano of Sterling, Jane Seymour of Northborough and Ralph Tricomi of Southborough were each elected to two-year terms.

“Christine, Jane and Ralph bring strategic vision, financial experience and marketing savvy to Thrive’s board of directors at a time of unprecedented growth for our organization,” said Thrive President and CEO Sean Rose. “The expansion of our board reflects the growth of our agency in Worcester County, and we are fortunate to gain their expertise and leadership.”

Mariano is a vice president at International Ceramic

Engineering and director of engineered material sales. She has extensive experience in operations management and building relationships, as well as using multiple platforms for building brand awareness.

Seymour is the senior vice president, program development and integration manager at Bank of America. In addition to her banking and financial management experience, Seymour excels at designing and implementing strategic planning initiatives.

Tricomi is the director of

Hudson receives grant for safety, risk management equipment

HUDSON – The town recently received a grant that will go toward safety and risk management activities and equipment.

Hudson was awarded a $7,196 grant from its property and casualty insurance provider, Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance Association (MIIA).

The MIIA is the nonprofit insurance branch of the Massachusetts Municipal Association.

currents and magnetic manhole cover lifters.

In fiscal year 2023, the association awarded $1 million and funded over 180 grant requests.

market development for Marlborough-based Web Industries and brings many years of business development and marketing experience to the board.

Thrive supports more than 1,200 individuals and families living in the Worcester County and Middlesex West regions of Massachusetts. It provides recreational and social initiatives for youth and adults, community residences, and individual and family support. For more information, visit www.icanthrive.org.

“The grant from MIIA allowed us to procure a range of equipment that will help protect employees while doing routine maintenance projects,” said Executive Assistant Thomas Gregory. “This equipment will help us reduce risk of potential injuries and further our commitment to creating a culture of safety in the workplace for all employees.”

The town used the grant funds to purchase chainsaw safety equipment, gas meters for town employees who work in trenches, hot sticks to help forestry workers detect electric

“MIIA is proud to partner with our member communities to provide solutions that support effective risk management, cost savings and enhanced employee safety,” said MIIA Executive Vice President Stan Corcoran. “Hudson and many of our other members are able to benefit from these grants to help mitigate costly insurance claims, particularly in areas where we commonly see issues and losses arise.”

Backpack, school supply giveaway

Aug. 19

MARLBOROUGH – Santa’s Elves Metrowest will host its fifth annual Back to School Backpack Drive on Saturday, Aug. 19, from 2:30 to 4 p.m. at Ward Park, 57 Orchard St. Students from kindergarten through grade 12 are welcome to come and get free backpacks and school supplies while they last. First come, first served. Rain date will be Sunday, Aug. 20.

Learn about the MWRTA and its fare system

MARLBOROUGH – The Marlborough Community Development Authority has announced that it will be hosting a public outreach event with the Metrowest Regional Transit Authority (MWRTA) for its residents.

On Tuesday, Aug. 22, and Thursday, Aug. 24, Jon Fetherston, the MWRTA’s travel trainer, will be available to show how the MWRTA’s programs work, as well as aiding residents with its transition to its new fare system.

Fetherston will host the event in the auditorium at 250 Main St. on Tuesday, Aug. 22, at 2 p.m. at the Community Room at 397 Bolton St. on Thursday, Aug. 24, 2 p.m. Flyers, schedules and Catch cards will be available for residents during the event; all are welcome to attend.

Christine Mariano Jane Seymour Ralph Tricomi

Student rally to support Pilgrim Church

Get moving with Girls on the Run

REGION – Girls on the Run Worcester County is ready for its fall season and is anticipating more than 25 sites across the county to host its afterschool program.

Local sites include:

Grafton – Millbury Street Elementary School, Mondays and Thursdays, 3 to 4:15 p.m., grades 3-5

Northborough – Melican Middle School, Mondays and Wednesdays, 4:30 to 6 p.m., grades 3-5

SOUTHBOROUGH – Current and former youth group members and congregation members at Pilgrim Church spent a day giving back to the church, painting its east side.

According to a press release, over the winter, Pilgrim Church’s lower level offices and hall were damaged due to burst pipes and was undergoing repairs.

When church members met in May to discuss large budget items, one of the significant items was painting the east side of the church. After learning about the potential expenditure and within 24 hours, three members rallied a group of current and former youth group members and adults for a volunteer event to paint the east side.

Most of the young adults had served on mission trips to Washington D.C. and New York as part of the youth group where they renovated houses, shelters and churches.

Over 20 community members gathered to paint the church on May 30.

“Today was an absolutely fabulous experiences,” said church member Bill Landes. “Seeing youth group members ‘all grown up’ and being of great help was pure joy to experience.”

He continued, “This day said so much about the positive energy re-emerging at Pilgrim that I wish we could bottle it and share with everyone. Today demonstrated how great a place it is. We are grateful to the wonderful people that make up the congregation.”

A donor donated what was required to paint the remaining portion of the church.

Girls on the Run Worcester County is getting ready for the fall season.

Shrewsbury – Walter J. Paton Elementary School, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 3:45 to 5:15 p.m., grades 3 and 4; Sherwood Middle School, Mondays and Wednesdays, 3:15 to 4:45 p.m., grades 5 and 6; Beal Elementary School, 3:30 to 4:45 p.m., grades 3 and 4; Al Hamra Academy, Mondays and Thursdays, 3:30 to 5 p.m., grades 3-5; Boroughs Family Branch YMCA, Mondays and Wednesdays, 4:30 to 6 p.m., grades 3-5.

Southborough – Woodward Elementary School fields,

Tuesdays and Fridays, 3:15 to 4:30 p.m., grades 3-5

Westborough – Hastings Elementary School, Mondays and Wednesdays, 4:30 to 6 p.m., third grade

Lottery registration for the 10-week fall season will close on Monday, Aug. 21. The registration period is lottery-style to ensure every girl that registers during this time frame will have a fair chance to participate. Parents will be notified by Aug. 22 of their girl’s status

of enrollment. Teams that are not full by this date will be reopened on a first-come, first serve basis.

The fall season begins the week of Sept. 18 with a twiceweekly schedule.

For more information about Girls on the Run Worcester County, including how to register your girl for a third-fifth grade or sixth-eighth grade team this upcoming fall season, visit www.gotr-worc.org/ programs.

MERCURY RECOVERY PROGRAM

Mercury is an element that can be harmful to human health and the environment if not disposed of properly.

Mercury is found in products such as:

Volunteers spent a day painting the east side of Pilgrim Church in late May.

Elite Hockey League celebrates end of roller hockey season

By Evan Walsh Reporter

WESTBOROUGH – Hockey can be just as nice without the ice.

On Aug. 4, dozens of athletes and passionate fans gathered at NorthStar in Westborough for the Elite Hockey League’s season finale.

Run by Kerry Shea, the league is one of the largest roller (inline) hockey leagues in the Northeast.

Roller hockey is played similar to ice hockey — there are two nets and hockey sticks, for instance — but there are also several key differences. Participants rollers skate around the tiled rink, there are no offsides or icing penalties, and the game is played 4-on-4.

The changes alter the pace of the game, turning the hustleand-bustle of ice hockey into something much more deliberate and tactical. Shea noted that the game helps ice hockey players take breaks from the sport while still developing their skills.

“It’s a sport that a lot of NHL

[National Hockey League] guys are attributing their success to,” Shea told the Community Advocate. “I’ve been doing it since I stopped playing highlevel hockey. In my early twenties I picked up this sport, and I’ve been doing it ever since. I’m almost 30 years into this business.”

A self-described “hockey guy,” Shea also has an extensive history with NorthStar, where

his league has operated for the last four years. Shea said he has “lots of great memories on [the] rink.”

“I grew up on these rinks, he said. “I was 4 years old playing on this rink. My dad coached me on this rink. Matter of fact, the night my dad died I came here to sit on these stands.”

Shea’s son Trevor Shea scored the winning shootout goal at NorthStar that led Shrewsbury High School ice hockey past Algonquin Regional High School in the 2014 playoffs. Shea hadn’t entered in the game up until that point, and his goal propelled the team to the Division 3 State Championship.

After his ice hockey success, Trevor Shea played roller hockey at UMass, where Kerry Shea coached the team to the regional championship. Trevor Shea now helps his father run the roller hockey leagues.

When Kerry Shea first began the roller hockey league, he started with eight teams. Now, he manages that many teams daily. Shea’s organization now includes 20 teams, not counting

the four “dek hockey” teams he oversees. There’s a spot for everyone in the roller leagues; the leagues are split into three levels based on skills and previous experience. Some people travel for hours for their roller hockey fix.

“It’s just taken off. It’s been wonderful,” Shea said.

Shea has also started several youth roller hockey teams. He holds skills clinics for young athletes.

“The kids love it… they can’t get enough,” he said.

Shea strives to keep his league as “clean” as possible. You won’t see any badmouthing, fighting, or unnecessary roughness in his leagues.

“I don’t claim to be perfect — I can never be perfect — but I shoot to be the best I can. I’m fair to people, and I treat other people the way I’d want to be treated… If someone breaks a wheel, I go give them a wheel and fix their skates,” Shea said.

“When people come to watch my leagues, they’re like ‘There’s no fighting? There are no suspensions?’ ” he added.

The season finale games

were, in fact, very respectful. All the athletes were supportive; Shea encourages everyone to help fellow athletes – even opponents – up after they fall.

Now retired from playing hockey, Shea dons the “zebra stripes” and referees the game.

“I think I’m more excited than the kids are,” he said.

On Aug. 4, the league celebrated the end to the season with an exhibition game that included the professionals and youth athletes. Each age group took the floor for three minutes before swapping out.

“The kids can learn alot by sitting on the bench and switching shifts with the pros,” Shea said.

After the game, the league championships were held.

“I don’t care who wins and loses, I’m huge on — and I almost go overboard with — sportsmanship, class, respect, and treating each other nicely,” Shea said.

For more information on the Elite Hockey League, go to https://tinyurl.com/eliterollerhockey.

Sights and scenes from the Elite Hockey League exhibition game. Kerry Shea, the referee, league founder, and league commissioner, supports the younger players.

PHOTO/EVAN WALSH

Striders to sponsor Labor Day race

are asked to bring 15 canned goods as a donation for the food pantry.

The race itself gives participants a choice between the “Tough Ten Mile” course and the “Fast Five” route in Marlborough and Hudson. Both events begin at 8 a.m., with the same start and finish line in Ghiloni Park.

Live. Learn. Grow.

event.

MARLBOROUGH – The Laborious Labor Day Road Race, a 20-year tradition, is set to take place Monday, Sept. 4 at Ghiloni Park in Marlborough.

The event is sponsored by the Highland City Striders and benefits the Hudson Community Food Pantry. With no entry fee, runners

Visit the Highland City Striders website (http:// www.highlandcitystriders. org) for more information and to register. Race-day registration and food collection begin at 7 a.m. at Ghiloni Park.

Dispensary seeks to expand hours

Gold is proposing. Committee members said that several signs had been “grandfathered,” and they would like Green Gold to go through “proper channels.”

“We should do it right,” said Councilor Donald Landers.

In addition to the signage,

Green Gold is planning to amend its plan of use, including a dedicated lane for medical marijuana patients, and expand its hours to Mondays through Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Urban Affairs approved the

plan of use and expanded hours, and requested Green Gold to obtain permits for the new signage.

The special permit request has been sent to the city solicitor, and it could go before the full City Council at its next meeting on Monday, Aug. 21.

The Highland City Striders volunteer team poses for a picture during a previous

Green Gold | from page 1

MARLBOROUGH – At the UMass Memorial-Marlborough Hospital, Marlborough Mayor Arthur Vigeant joined Marlborough Public Schools Superintendent Mary Murphy, City Councilor Samantha Perlman and others to announce Marlborough Hospital’s Little Free Library. It is located on hospital grounds for members of the

community and patients to use. The Little Library has been stocked with health and wellness related books in English, Spanish, Portuguese and Haitian Creole. You can find the free library on the front lawn of the hospital located at 157 Union St. It is available for caregivers,

members of the community and patients to use.

The goal of Marlborough Hospital’s Little Library is to bring access to health/wellness books for patients who may not have the ability to access them otherwise while maintaining cultural diversity and sensitivity that a portion of patients are

A place to grow your money for a rainy day

not English speaking.

THE ROTARY CLUB of Marlborough Homestead Project, which provides emergency assistance to homeless women, got a boost recently as five wonderful ladies, under the leadership of Melissa Anthony, rolled up their

The Marlborough Rotary Club’s Homestead Project got a boost recently when these women raised money and goods to benefit the project here in Marlborough. In photo, from left are Tula Zlatkos, Chrisanthi Simopoulos, Chrisanthi Regan, Mary Tsianatelis and Melissa Anthony in the front holding the Fundraiser Flyer.

Lisa M Casillo

sleeves and raised $1,700 as well as gathered six boxes of emergency supplies and wrote out 100 cards of encouragement for the women they are helping.

In addition to this collection, the Marlborough Rotary Club will hold a Rotary Home-

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Wenzel | 17

stead Golf Classic on Sept. 30 at the Juniper Hills Golf Club in Northborough. Proceeds will benefit plans for a residence for homeless women. The cost per golfer is $140 and sponsorships are available at $200, each.

RECENTLY, it was Graduation Day for the 2023

August Class of the Marlborough Police Youth Academy. Following a week of testing the recruits’ merit and resilience, each cadet passed the Marlborough Youth Academy with flying colors. Throughout the week, recruits learned about core values, respect, discipline and teamwork. They acquired a wide variety of

training and hopefully left the academy a little bit more confident in themselves from when they started. Thanks go to all of the recruits for their hard work and to the entire training staff and speakers for organizing and participating in the program.

YOU’RE INVITED to the GFWC Marlborough Junior Woman’s Club’s upcoming Meet & Greet Open House on Saturday, Aug. 19, 9 to 10 a.m., and Wednesday, Aug. 23, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., to meet members, hear about community volunteer opportunities and being a part of an exciting year ahead. Bring a friend and stop by to meet Juniors at the Lost

Shoe Brewing and Roasting Company, 19 Weed St., in downtown Marlborough. No RSVP needed. www.marlboroughjuniors.org.

CONGRATULATIONS to MHS graduate Bethany Gibson who has been selected as Massachusetts’ nominee for the prestigious 2023 NFHS National High School Heart of the Arts Award. Bethany’s exceptional leadership and dedication have made her a shining example for others. Through this program, the National Federation of State High School Associations annually recognizes individuals and/or groups who exemplify the ideals of the positive heart of the arts that represent the core mission of education-based activities.

THE MARLBOROUGH

LIONS CLUB recently enjoyed going to Polar Park, the home of the Worcester Red Sox. It was a great day for a

WooSox baseball game, well actually, two games. They were the lucky beneficiaries of rain the day before and saw the WooSox split a doubleheader with the Rochester Red Wings.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Aug. 13 – Christopher Hill

Aug. 18 – Bonnie Doolin

Aug. 22 – Dick Yurkus

Aug. 25 – Rick Lombardi

Aug. 26 – David Cappadona

Aug. 27 – Diane Stevens

Aug. 30 – Karoline Wheeler, Helen Downey and Barbara Rowe

Aug. 31 – Jacob Durand and John Breen

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

Aug. 25 – Dr. Dan and Dr. Mary O’Brien

Aug. 27 – Jake and Julie Dalbec

Send items for “Marlborough at a Glance” to Mary Wenzel at marysampler@verizon.net. Put GLANCE in the subject line.

Marlborough Public Library begins transition

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – The Marlborough Public Library is on the move.

As of Friday, Aug. 11, the library at the Walker Building will be closed, and the transition to the newly renovated space on West Main Street will begin.

“The move is going to take a while, and then we still need to get staff in, finish setting up and training,” said Director Sara Belisle.

An opening date has yet to be announced, she added.

Due dates on materials

will be extended during this period.

Materials may be returned to any library within the Central and Western Massachusetts Automated Resource Sharing system, including Berlin, Hudson, Northborough, Southborough and Westborough. You may also visit these libraries to check out materials.

The book drop will not be available during the transition. The library no longer charges or collects fines. Any Marlborough items still on accounts when the library closes will be renewed auto -

matically.

Also, museum passes will not be available while the library is in transition.

Those having donations are asked to either wait until the library reopens, or give them to another library.

More information about the closing of the library at the Walker Building, and the reopening of the library at 35 W. Main St. (currently scheduled for September), will be announced as soon as it’s available.

For the latest, visit www. marlborough-ma.gov/library-0.

At UMass Memorial-Marlborough Hospital, Marlborough Mayor Arthur Vigeant, left, joined others to announce the Marlborough Hospital’s Little Free Library. The Little Library has been stocked with health and wellness related books in English, Spanish, Portuguese and Haitian Creole.

Wenzel | from page 16

The Advanced Math and Science Academy charter school begins expansion project

By Cindy Zomar

Contributing Writer

MARLBOROUGH – Signs

identifying construction entrances dot the driveways of the Advanced Math and Science Academy charter school (AMSA) on Forest Street, begging the question as to whether or not the new entrance which will circle the campus will be ready for the start of school.

“That’s the plan!” declared Lisa Mobley, who recently was named the new executive director of the school, replacing the retired Ellen Linzey.

The current driveways have proved inadequate to handle the lines of vehicles dropping off or picking up students, forcing traffic to back up onto Forest St. and creating a tangle of vehicles and students at the building entrances.

Designed originally as an office park, the school has worked tirelessly to bring a campus environment to the property. With the recent

purchase of the three buildings that were leased (165, 199, and 201 Forest Street), a multimillion-dollar expansion project is getting underway. The new entrance road looping around the entire campus is phase one.

“The site plan has been approved by the city. We had to merge two lots to plan for our new academic building, which was approved by the Planning Board,” said Mobley. “We want to isolate the internal campus, moving the traffic to the outside perimeter, keeping the students safer and making it more of a college-type campus environment.”

Phase two of the project will be the construction of a 17,000-square-foot academic building, adding much needed classrooms and science laboratories featuring state-ofthe-art technology.

The school currently has only one science lab and has had to be very creative with scheduling and alternative

spaces. Nevertheless, students have continued to be highly successful as AMSA continues to rank as the number two high school in the Commonwealth, according to US News & World Reports.

The overall expansion project is currently estimated at $30 million, using school equity of roughly $4 million, a tax-exempt bond of $24 million, and philanthropy of $2 million to close the gap.

The “Imagine” capital campaign is reaching out to

families and local businesses who might want to get involved, even offering naming rights at various levels to those who would want to leave a legacy.

What many don’t realize is that even though officially a public school, public charter schools are responsible for their own facility improvements, employee benefits, and operating costs. Charter schools may not participate in the MSBA (Massachusetts School Building Authority) grant funding for school construction, so they must rely on private financing and fundraising efforts.

“We are hoping that our parents will be willing to pledge a monthly amount over the next year or two, giving us a steady stream of donations,”

continued Mobley.

AMSA opened its doors in 2005 and serves a school population of grades 6-12.

The four core communities that send their students to AMSA are Clinton, Hudson, Marlborough and Maynard, but others may also submit their applications through the lottery process as space is available. AMSA does not charge tuition.

With graduates from the earlier years already through college, Mobley thinks that the proof of success is evident.

“We are on the cusp of really showing how well these kids do…they’re coming back to work in our communities as local engineers, scientists, teachers, etc. That’s what we want to stress to our potential partners as we ask for their help,” Mobley said.

The AMSA Board of Trustees will vote at its Sept. 11 meeting on whether to move forward on the rest of the project at this time.

Construction signs pop up on the Advanced Math and Science Academy charter school property as an expansion gets underway.

PHOTO/CINDY ZOMAR

Masterminds and More!

Ihave a smorgasbord of stuff to cover for you in this month’s article.

CHAMBER

where we not only received some valuable training on Gino Wickman’s Entrepreneurial Operating System for businesses, but also got to know each other more on a personal level which was awesome.

IN THE NEWS

First, if you are not actively participating in a Mastermind Group, I highly recommend you do.

Personally, I am very fortunate to be involved with one. I’ve been a member of my mastermind group for the last several years as I get immense value out of meeting with 11 other business owners monthly to discuss and solve the challenges each of us face in our businesses.

My colleagues in the mastermind group openly share their experiences in business for the benefit of all involved, and we also share a wide variety of business building resources with each other every month.

We all recently attended a twoday mastermind retreat in Vermont

There are a number of different Mastermind models for business owners and executives to participate in, including for example Vistage and The Alternative Board. As I’ve mentioned, I highly recommend you investigate one if you haven’t done so already.

Offering a Mastermind Group for members of our Chamber is something that is on my agenda in the coming months. If you are interested in learning more about mastermind groups or participating in our Chamber Mastermind group when it is launched, please let us know by calling us at 508485-7746.

On another topic, we are a few weeks away from launching a Restaurant Sweepstakes to support our Chamber member restaurants and the Marlborough Regional Community Foundation which provides

scholarships for area high school seniors.

The Sweepstakes is called “The Most-Righteous Chamber Chow Down”, the name a nod to Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure. I would like to thank John Marchiony from Fair to All Partners for helping us to organize it.

We’ll have some awesome prizes for those who participate in the sweepstakes, and it launches after Labor Day. We’ll share more details including how you can enter the sweepstakes on our website and social media channels in the weeks to come.

Finally, don’t forget to register for our Steak and Lobster Festival

on Wednesday September 13th. It is one of our biggest and most engaging networking events. Not only will you be treated to an exceptional dinner, you’ll be able to connect with over 100 other businesspeople, participate in a cornhole tournament, listen to a great band, and have a great time. Best of all, it is only $40.00 and open to both members and non-members of our Chamber.

You can learn more about and register for our Steak and Lobster Festival at our events on our website calendar page at https:// members.marlboroughchamber. org/calendar. Look forward to your participation! Have a great week!

A recent Mastermind meeting.

HOMES MORE&

Selling this Fall? What’s your game plan?

By Michelle Gillespie

Direct Line: 508-934-9818

michelle@michellegillespie.com www.michellegillespie.com 10 Main St, Northborough #1 Realtor in Northborough*

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.

Autumn in New England is the second-best time of the year to sell a home. Moderate temperatures and the beauty of the season help everyone to relax. Families are back from summer vacations, the kids have gone back to school, football season has begun, and the holidays are still a safe distance away.

The fall real estate market has arrived and the buyers are looking for homes to purchase. To prepare your home for sale this fall, let me suggest some strategies to get the most out of your property. From cosmetic to strategic, smart sellers can take advantage of a few simple tips to help close the deal.

Create Autumn Curb Appeal

• Do as much as possible to improve the home’s appearance: touch up the paint and make any necessary repairs. Polish the floors and scrub away!

• Rake the yard, trim back bushes and debris off your lawn.

• Cut away summer vines and dead flowers, plant fall mums and marigolds; yellow is a home-selling color. Accent the flowers with pumpkins.

• Your windows need to sparkle. Wash windows inside and out to let in the most natural light. Buyers love to see a lot of natural light in a home.

• Start to pack and de-clutter — remember, your goal is to sell your house and move on to your new home.

• Spruce up your entryway — Replace your doormat with a new one and add a few container plants. A clean, attractive doorway will help set the tone for the entire showing and will show the buyers the care you take in your home.

Make the Most of the Fall Season

Inventory continues be low and buyers are out there looking for homes to purchase.

Let’s maximize first impressions and attract the most buyers by following the tips in this article.

Let’s make the most of the fall market

If you want to sell your home this fall, let me help you stage, prepare and sell your home.

I have close to 20 years of experience working with sellers. 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. I look forward to hearing from you.

For Sale by Michelle Gillespie

Michelle Gillespie REALTOR® MEGA AGENT

Northborough - Listed for $925,000 Indian Meadow, Colonial 4 bedrooms/3.5 bathrooms, and lower-level in-law suite

Willard House and Clock Museum to host antique car event

GRAFTON – The Willard House and Clock Museum, 11 Willard St., will host a car lawn event on Saturday, Aug. 19, (and a rain date of Sunday, Aug. 20) from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Times are approximate as the cars will be touring the countryside.

The event is open to the public, and free admission was made possible by UniBank.

Willard has also announced that attendees may enjoy food and drink from Joey’s Wingz & Thingz food truck and Rushford & Sons craft beers of Upton.

Guests are encouraged to register at https://willardhouse. org/events/calendar/2023/8/19/minute-man-model-a-club.

Nearly 30 beautifully curated and restored Ford Model

Fall is for planting!

T’s and Model A’s will be on display at Willard.

“According to the Ford Motor Company, [more than] 15 million Model Ts were built and sold between 1908 and 1927. The new Ford Model A was introduced in 1927 and was the company’s answer to a fast-changing market as well as the introduction of paved roads,” said David Libbey of the Minuteman Model A Club. “As history shows, nearly 5 million Model A’s in nine body styles were produced and sold between 1927 and 1932.”

Participating Car Clubs:

• Minuteman Model A Ford Club

• Worcester County Model A Club

• Blackstone Valley Model A Ford Club

• Yankee IngenuiT’s

• Central Mass Model T Ford Club

“The museum is always looking for a horological theme to its events,” said Robert Gierschick, director of development at Willard House and Clock Museum. “The Model A had a Ford-approved option of a clock integrated into the driver’s visor, so I guess we could say that time travels fast.”

For information about this program, please contact Beverly Snow, program coordinator, at 508-839-3500, or visit www.willardhouse.org.

North Grafton resident to run in Falmouth for autism research

FALMOUTH – Jack Fontana of North Grafton will be running the 2023 Falmouth Road Race as a member of Dougie’s Team supporting the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism.

The race will take place on Sunday, Aug. 20.

Fontana will be raising money to help the Flutie

Foundation continue to fund programs that help people and families affected by autism live life to the fullest.

“I want to run for Dougie’s team because I have run the past two years, and it is the best feeling in the world to not only raise over $1,000 for an incredible cause, but to also

run on an amazing course in front of thousands of people all there to support hundreds of charities,” said Fontana.

The Flutie Foundation provides direct financial support to families to relieve the financial burden of caring for a loved one with autism, and collaborative grantmaking

Live Your Best Retirement Life!

to autism-serving organizations.

For more information on how to support Fontana and Dougie’s Team, visit https://raceroster.com/ events/2022/56070/the2022-asics-falmouth-roadrace/fundraising-organization/34957.

Turano family plans benefit golf tournament

GRAFTON – The family of a longtime Grafton resident will once again hold a golf tournament in his memory.

The second annual Tony Turano Memorial Classic will take place on Monday, Aug. 21, at the Pleasant Valley Country Club in Sutton.

Turano died of cancer in October 2021; he was a longtime member of Pleasant Valley. Registration will be from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m., followed by a shotgun start at 10 a.m. There will be a buffet dinner and charity auction/raffle at 3:30 p.m.

Entry fees cost $800 per foursome, which includes a golf cart, 18 holes, boxed lunch at the turn, dinner and swag bag. For dinner only, the fee is $60.

Donations are being accepted for the auction and raffle, including gift certificates, sports and concert tickets, sports memorabilia items, etc.

To donate an item, email info@tonyturanomc.com or call 508-954-9994.

Residents of New Horizons retirement community in Marlborough recently enjoyed its annual Summer Lobster Fest.

“Thanks to all who had anything to do with the delicious lobster fest—the cooks, servers, and all the staff of New Horizons. The food and entertainment were great! You all deserve a big thank you.”

-New Horizon Resident, Lorraine Lesieur

Experience all we have to offer!

508-460-5200

Proceeds from the tournament will go to the DanaFarmer Cancer Institute and the Jimmy Fund.

For information, visit https://tonyturanomemorialclassic.com/.

Health advisories issued for four Shrewsbury bodies of water

SHREWSBURY – The Shrewsbury Board of Health issued public health advisories for Gauch Park Pond, Oak Island Boat Ramp at Flint Pond, Jordan Pond and Newton Pond on Aug. 10.

Routine water testing revealed high levels of E. coli in the water.

The advisory notes that while high E. coli levels are not uncommon after heavy rainfall, they nonetheless “encourage individuals and their pets to avoid contact at the… mentioned bodies of water, including fishing, until further notice.”

Residents with questions should call the Shrewsbury Health Department at 508841-8384.

1.

POLICE FIRE&

Two-alarm fire destroys Marlborough home

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

MARLBOROUGH – Court documents reveal additional details about what led to a fatal stabbing in Marlborough earlier this month.

Darlene Carreras, 37, of Marlborough, has been charged with manslaughter following the death of Eric Murray, 45.

By Ron Ayotte

Contributing Writer

MARLBOROUGH – A two-alarm fire tore through a single family home in the core section of the city on the afternoon of Aug. 5.

The Marlborough Fire Department was already out on other incidents when the fire was reported for 16 Brown St. The first alarm was struck at 4:53 p.m., with Engine 1, Engine 2, Engine 3, Rescue 1, Squad 1, Tower 1 and Car 5 in response. Assistant Chief Jeff Gogan also responded to the fire.

Battalion Chief Eric Christensen was the first to arrive and reported heavy smoke and fire. The neighborhood is one of the oldest streets of the city, and it is congested with homes very close to one another.

The heat from the fire was so intense that the vinyl siding of the home of 12 Brown St. melted and the underlying wood heavily charred. Firefighters stretched a hose line to protect that exposure while other firefighters attacked the fire in the building of origin.

Due to rapidly deteriorating conditions, the firefighters were withdrawn and defensive operations began.

A second alarm was struck at 5:19 p.m. bringing mutual aid from Hudson, Southborough, Northborough and Sudbury. Framingham and Westborough provided mutual aid coverage at Marlborough’s fire stations.

At one point in the fire, flammable gases produced by the fire on the first floor

ignited, causing a fireball to erupt through a window and the front door while defensive operations were in progress.

Once the main body of fire was knocked down, fire crews re-entered the structure to finish extinguishing the fire and overhaul, which calls for opening up the walls and ceilings to find hidden pockets of fire.

The all-out was sounded at 11:16 p.m. Firefighters went back to the home at 3:24 a.m. on Sunday because there was a flareup. Hudson covered Marlborough’s station at that time.

The cause of the fire is undetermined and is under investigation.

Two firefighters were transported to Marlborough Hospital by Patriot EMS for evaluations for minor injuries.

Man faces drug, firearms charges after arrest at hotel

WESTBOROUGH – A man staying at the Extended Stay Hotel was arrested by police after he allegedly brandished a firearm.

According to information provided by the Westborough Police Department, officers went to the Extended Stay Hotel at 19 Connector Road on Aug. 9 for a report of a person brandishing a firearm.

Before they arrived, the officers learned that the suspect had allegedly used the firearm to threaten children that were running in the hallway. When the police arrived, hotel management and residents directed them to the suspect’s room, later identified as Mar-

cos Menezes, 38.

According to the release, police heard Menezes rummaging around the room, delaying his response to requests to exit.

When Menezes came to the door, officers said they secured him and swept the room.

Westborough District Court granted police a search warrant to recover the alleged firearm.

During the search, police located what was believed to be a Class B substance, cash, drug paraphernalia and a small replica revolver.

Menezes has been charged with trafficking 100 grams or more of methamphetamine, three counts of possession of a Class B drug and assault with a dangerous weapon.

Menezes was arraigned at Westborough District Court and is being held on $50,000 bail and $500,000 surety bond.

Police received a 911 call at 10:24 p.m. Aug. 2. According to the statement of facts filed in Marlborough District Court, the caller told police that a woman was screaming “help,” “stop” and “let me go.”

When officers arrived, the door to the apartment was cracked open, and police said they heard a woman screaming. Inside, Murray was lying on his back next to a counter in the kitchen. According to the statement of facts, Murray was pressing a stack of paper towels against his chest, and Carreras was also applying pressure.

Police said a folding knife was open and on the ground next to Murray’s right side.

According to the statement of facts, Carreras told police that she had been arguing with Murray.

“She said that she grabbed the knife from him and did not know what happened afterwards,” the statement of facts reads.

According to the court documents, Carreras told police that Murray would go to her apartment as a “refuge while he is drinking.”

She told police that they are friends.

Carreras was transported to the hospital for treatment of a cut to her right middle and index finger.

After she was released from the hospital, police interviewed Carreras.

During this interview, she told police that they began to argue after Murray asked her to wash the child’s clothes and became upset when she refused. She also told police that he was angry with her because she wanted to get food for the child.

In the statement of facts, police said that she “provided

two different accounts of what occurred as to the physical altercation.”

She told police that Murray pinned her against the kitchen island and punched her. In one account, she told police she grabbed a knife that she knew was behind the coffee maker. During a struggle, they fell to the ground, as did the knife.

When she got up, Carreras told police that Murray had pointed the knife to her chest, she turned it around and stabbed him.

In a second account, Carreras told police that Murray grabbed the knife. After they fell, Murray still had the knife when they got up. According to the documents, Carreras said she kicked and threw Murray to the ground. She told police he fell and began to snore. When she rolled him over, the knife was in his chest, she told police.

Police later executed a search warrant at the apartment. Officers wrote that the investigators found an apparent blood trail on the wall near the kitchen island.

The blood trail is consistent with it coming from her right hand after her fingers were cut, police said.

“Given the location of this blood trail to the kitchen island, it would not have been possible for Carreras to have made this blood trail while pinned against the island as she described,” police wrote.

Carreras told police that she didn’t call 911 because she was trying to keep pressure on the wound, but she threw a bottle at a neighbor’s door. According to the statement of facts, a man who had been in the apartment earlier received a call from Carreras to come back.

According to the statement of facts, Murray suffered a single stab wound to the chest and superficial incised wound to the jaw. He was transferred to the hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

An autopsy was performed. The statement of facts said that his pulmonary artery was severed, and a doctor in the chief medical examiner’s office determined that his cause of death was the stab wound.

Court documents detail cause of death in Marlborough stabbing

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE WESTBOROUGH POLICE

Marcos Menezes

Captain Rick Johannes stands in front of the home on Brown Street.

This photo shows the damage to the home on Brown Street.

PHOTO/ PHOTO/RON AYOTTE

PHOTO/COURTESY MARLBOROUGH FIRE DEPARTMENT

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).

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

DEATHS

Bartlett, Bruce formerly of Southborough

Chase, Mark formerly of Westborough

Colonies, Mary of Shrewsbury

DiMauro, Janet of Marlborough

Ferguson, Paul of Southborough

Jones, Mabel formerly of Hudson

Kirk, Paul of Southborough

Kruse, Richard of Westborough

Miller, June of Shrewsbury

Pizzimenti, Deborah of Grafton

Quilliam, Mary of Grafton

Turo, Rita of Shrewsbury

Weihs, Lila of Shrewsbury

James D. Whaling, 88

PITTSFIELD - James Davis

Whaling, 88, of Pittsfield, formerly of Stockbridge, died peacefully Wednesday, August 2nd surrounded by his loving family; five children and compassionate wife Patrice of 63 years.

Born on March 10, 1935 in Carthage, NY., to the late George and Ann Davis Whaling, he attended Augustinian Academy, graduating in 1953. After graduating high school, he attended Villanova University, graduating in 1957. He attended The United States Army officer Candidate School at Fort Benning, New York.

James was President and owner of Adirondack Core and Plug Company. After several successful decades James Whaling took his skill set to the building trades of Boston.

Jim was constantly the kind and honorable man. He enjoyed the great outdoors, where he would often be found skiing at Snow Ridge, New York and swimming at Soft Maple, New York. His true passion was being out in the Duck Blinds with his closest friends and family on Wolfe Island, Canada. Jim was a devoted mentor to Joey Wright of Carthage, New York. He was President of the Elks Club, member of the Lyons Club, Carlowden Country Club and a communicant of St. Ann’s Church.

James met and married the love of his life Patrice Helen Donnelly on January 9, 1960 in New York City. He was a devoted Father of George Whaling and partner Karen Choquette of Pittsfield, Valerie Whaling of Lenox, Katherine and her husband Brian Carpenter of Stowe, Vermont, Jennifer Keiffer and her husband Kenneth of South Dartmouth, Massachusetts and Clementine and her husband Robert McNamara of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts.

Jim was the loyal Grandfather of Emily and Meghan Ryan, Hunter and Alexander Carpenter, Connor and Mark Keiffer, Maura, Colleen and Dennis McNamara. Brother to George Whaling and Jane Wycoff, and Nancy Whaling Fertig. Also survived by several nieces and nephews.

There will be no calling hours, service and burial will be private. A Celebration of Jim’s Life for family and friends will be held at a future date this fall.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim’s honor to the Alzheimer’s Association; https://www.alz.org/.

To share memories and stories please visit www.rochefuneralhome.com.

Bruce A. Bartlett, 65

STERLING - Bruce Alan Bartlett passed away at his home in Sterling on July 28, 2023, at the age of 65. Born in Framingham, MA, he was the oldest son of Joan (Batchelder) Bartlett and the late Edward Bartlett. Bruce was pre-deceased by the love of his life, his wife Lori (Heon) Bartlett in 2020.

Bruce is survived by his mother, Joan Bartlett of Southborough; his brother Scott Bartlett and his wife, Denise of Northborough; his brother Gary Bartlett and his wife, Laura of Marlborough; his sister, Lisa Bartoli and her husband Gus, of Ashland; his nephews Steven Bartlett and his wife, Magda, Michael Bartoli, Christopher Bartoli and his fiancée, Lindsey Camuso, and Scott Bartlett and his fiancée, Asta Silvia; his niece Jessica Tavares and her husband, Andrew; his two grandnieces, Aisling and Skye Tavares; his mother-inlaw, Joyce Heon of Lunenburg; his sister-in-law, Christina Boisse and her husband, Paul of Townsend; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with the family from 10 to 11 a.m. on Friday, August 18 in the Miles-Sterling Funeral and Tribute Center, 100 Worcester Road, Sterling. A memorial service will follow at 11 a.m. in the funeral home followed by burial at Hillside Cemetery, Townsend.

Janet DiMauro, 82

MARLBOROUGH - Janet (Bouvier) DiMauro, 82, of Marlborough, died Tuesday, August 8, 2023, after a long fight with Parkinson’s Disease. She was the daughter of the late Honore and Edna (Goulet) Bouvier and the wife of James DiMauro, to whom she’d been married for 60 years.

Besides her husband, Janet is survived by her children, Lisa Ragan-Whitmore and her husband Mark of Pepperell, and her son Jay DiMauro of Marlborough. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Collin, Jordan and her husband Marco, Gabrielle and her husband Andrew, Christian and his wife Olivia, Lucas and His fiancée Neyda, Matthew, Max, Tyler and Trevor, her great grandchildren, Mason, Hannah, Oaklyn, Maverick, and one great grandson on the way, her sisters, Rita Gardiner and Shirley Saulnier and her husband Bernie, and her nurse, Gay. Janet was also the sister of the late Norman Bouvier, Claire Bouffard, and Jean Bray.

Visiting hours for Janet will

be held Saturday, August 19, 2023, from 10:00am-12:00pm at the Slattery Funeral Home, Inc., Marlborough, MA 01752. A funeral service will follow at 12:00pm.

Deborah A. Pizzimenti, 64

GRAFTON - Deborah Ann

(Doyle) Pizzimenti, 64, passed away peacefully on August 2nd, 2023 at home surrounded by her family.

Deb was born on September 25th, 1958 in Brooklyn, NY and her roots were on Long Island. She leaves her loving husband of 40 years, James Pizzimenti, her daughters Janine and Charlene, Janine’s husband Nigel, her granddaughter Celine, her sister Kathleen Capozzi, Kathleen’s husband Michael, and their children Suzanne, Michael, Deborah and Christina. She was predeceased by her parents Edward and Jeanette Doyle and her brother Edward Doyle. Roney Funeral Home of North Grafton assisted with arrangements.

Mary Quilliam, 86

GRAFTON - Mary MR “Rose” (Ryan) Quilliam, 86, passed away peacefully August 3, 2023 following a brief illness. Rose was born December 30, 1936 in Golden, County Tipperary, Ireland daughter of the late Denis and Mary Anne (Casey) Ryan.

She is survived by her loving husband of 65 years, William Q. Quilliam, her children Denise Bouthillette and her husband Louie, William J. Quilliam and his wife Mary, Deneen Barclay and her husband George and Rosemary Page and her husband Dan, her grandchildren Christopher Boucher, Anthony Bouthillette, Leah Bouthillette, Caitlin Quilliam, Daniel Quilliam, Tatum Barclay, Wayne Page and Ali Dawson, her great-granddaughter Rosita Boucher, her brothers John, Tim and Patrick Ryan and sisters Patricia O’Sullivan

and Annette (Cooper) Elliott along with many nieces and nephews.

Roney Funeral Home of North Grafton assisted with arrangements.

Mark E. Chase, 68

ARNOLD, CA - Mark Earle Chase, formerly of Westborough, passed away peacefully on Saturday June 3, 2023, at home with his devoted wife, Betty, and beloved Golden Retriever, Sutter, by his side.

Preceded in death by his father, Earle W. Chase, Jr, Mark is survived by his mom, Mary Jane Chase, sisters Cherylann (Donald), and Laurie (Jim) and brothers Scott (Maria) and Jeffrey (Sonja), wife Betty, children Justin (Emily) and Lindsey (Tyler), and seven grandchildren: Aubrey and Jackson Chase and Tessa, Millie, Riley, Wade, and Logan Brimhall.

The Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.

June

F. Miller, 89

SHREWSBURY - June F. Miller, 89, of Shrewsbury, formerly of Millbury and Westborough, passed away on Friday, August 4, 2023 at home. She was the wife of Francis E. “Spanky” Miller who passed away on July 11.

She is survived by four children, Robert Miller and his wife, Arlene, of Las Vegas, Pamela Thibeault and her husband, Larry, of Shrewsbury, Michelle Lyden and her husband, Richard, of S. Grafton and John Miller and his wife, Cathy of Millbury; one brother, Robert Caracciolo and his wife, Sue, of Hendersonville, NC; eight grandchildren, Heather Thibeault, John Patrick Thibeault, Jonathan Miller, Jennifer Zamora, Christina Zuniga, Troy Lyden, Brooke Lyden and Zachary Miller and four greatgrandchildren.

The Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.

COMMUNITY OBITUARIES

Mary E. Colonies, 100

SHREWSBURY - Mary E. (Kershaw) Colonies, 100, longtime Shrewsbury resident, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 5, 2023 at Beaumont Nursing Home in Northborough. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, John Colonies, in 1986.

Mary leaves her devoted children: Steven J. Colonies and wife Jeannine, of Sutton, Elaine M. Beaushene of Mechanicsville, VA and James C. Colonies and wife Patricia, of Shrewsbury; her grandchildren: Steven James Colonies, Eldon J. Colonies and wife Kristin, Arlanna Colonies, Daniel Riendeau and wife Stephanie, Gabrielle Medina and husband Cody, Zachary Colonies and fiancée Tasia Kellogg, Jessica Dietch and husband Daniel, and Robert Beaushene and wife Jamie; her great-grandchildren, Hannah, James, Patrick, Jackson, Isabelle, Sean, Aubrey, and Christopher; along with several nieces and nephews. Along with her husband John, Mary was predeceased by her

grandson, Brian Colonies; her brothers, Lawrence and Ralph Kershaw; her parents, Ralph K. and Mary E. (O’Connor) Kershaw; and her longtime best friend, Margie Hopewell, with whom she served in WAVES during World War II.

The Britton-Shrewsbury Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.

Rita M. Turo, 93

SHREWSBURY - Rita M. (Almonte) Turo, 93, of Shrewsbury, passed away on Monday, August 7, 2023, at Fairlawn Rehabilitation Hospital. She was predeceased by her husband of nearly fiftyone years, Michael A. “Reddy” Turo, he died in February 2005.

Rita is survived by her daughters, Ann Marie Turo and her husband Arthur Jordan of Boston, and Michelle M. Mirabito and her husband Thomas of Shrewsbury; two grandchildren, Marissa Mirabito and Dylan Thomas Mirabito; many nieces and nephews. Rita was predeceased

by her seven siblings, Julia Natola, Beatrice Wilczynski, John, Patsy, Orlando, Albert, and Joseph Almonte.

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

Mabel Jones, 93

ASHLAND - Mabel (Falamino) Jones, 93, of Ashland, MA, formerly of Berlin, MA and Hudson, MA, died on Wednesday, August 9, 2023 at the Waterville Lodge in Ashland, MA.

Mabel was born in Hudson, MA, daughter of the late Manuel and Adeline (Ribas) Falamino. She was raised in Hudson, MA attending local schools.

Mabel leaves her daughter Nancy Morse-Bey and her husband Omar Bey of Shrewsbury, MA; her grandchildren, Amber Alas and her husband Milton Alas of Worcester, MA, Jessica Smith and her husband Ted Smith of Blue Hill, ME, Amy Morse of Templeton, MA; great grandchildren, Kendra and Derek Alas; her sister Susan Landry of Hudson, MA;

step-sister Maria O’Neil of Northborough, MA along with her nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted with arrangements.

Richard W. Kruse, 88

WESTBOROUGH - Richard W. “Dick” Kruse, 88, of Westborough, passed away on Monday, August 7, 2023 at the UMass/ Memorial HealthcareUniversity Hospital. He was the husband of the late Jane P. (Pero) Kruse for 56 years.

Dick’s greatest love was his family including his late wife Jane, his kids and grandchildren. He is survived by three children, Meredith E. Kruse and her partner, Michael McAuliffe of Worcester, Scott F. Kruse and his wife, Marnie, of Fairfield, CT and Allyson K. Moreno and her husband, John, of Bourne and seven grandchildren, Ben Kruse, Ryan Kruse, Maggie Kruse, Noah Moreno, Jacob Moreno, Hannah Moreno and Sam Moreno. Dick is also survived

by his sister Christina Lecumberri of Mexico City, Mexico.

The Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.

Paul D. Kirk, 60

SOUTHBOROUGH - Paul D. Kirk, 60, of Southborough died suddenly Monday, August 7, 2023, at his summer home in West Harwich. He was the son of the late Paul T. and Jean (Fay) Kirk and was the husband of Marla (Hurwitz) Kirk, to whom he’d been married to the past 30 years.

Besides his wife, Paul is survived by his three children, Brian Kirk of Boston, Samantha Kirk of New Hampshire, and Jeannie Kirk of Southborough, his brothers, Kenneth Kirk and his wife Lorraine of Shrewsbury and Steven Kirk and his wife Maria of East Boston.

The Morris-Johnston Funeral Home of Southborough assisted with arrangements.

SUPER CROSSWORD

Answers on page 32

SHREWSBURY ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

PUBLIC HEARINGS

Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building

100 Maple Avenue

Shrewsbury, MA

August 28, 2023 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Nicholas T. Soter, 33 Topsfield Circle, Shrewsbury, MA for a Special Permit to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII.B to construct a second floor addition to a pre-existing nonconforming dwelling upon property located at 33 Topsfield Circle in the Residence A zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 40 Plot 108000.

August 28, 2023 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of William Stine, 18 Quail Hollow Drive, Shrewsbury MA for a Variance to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section

VII.B-Table II to build a garage five and four tenths (5.4) feet from the rear yard setback upon property located at 18 Quail Hollow Drive in the Rural A zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 54 Plot 155000.

Peter C. Mulcahy, Clerk

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

Town of Shrewsbury, MA

For Roman Drive, Hylair Drive, Oak Street And Fruit Street (Alt) –Water Main Replacement

August 2023

Sealed bids will be received at the office of the Town Manager in The Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, until 11:00 a.m. local time on Wednesday, September 6th, 2023 for the installation of approximately 6,305 linear feet of 12-inch CLDI Class 52 pipe, approximately 2,370 linear feet of 8-inch CLDI Class 52 pipe, approximately 493 linear feet of 6-inch CLDI Class 52 pipe, and all associated appurtenances. Approximately (98) 1” PE lateral service reconnections, (23) main reconnections, and (24) new hydrants.

The proposal forms, incorporated with the plans and specifications for the work involved, can be downloaded from the Towns Website https://shrewsburyma.gov/ bids.

All bids must meet the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Depart-

ment of Public Works Standard Specifications for Highways and Bridges (2020).

MassDOT prequalification of contractors with the class of work as WATER – SEWER for the project with an estimated value of $2,516,760 will be required.

A proposal guarantee in an amount equal to five (5) percent of the bid amount in the form of cash, or bid bond, or certified check, or a treasurer’s or cashier’s check issued by a responsible banking institution payable to the Town of Shrewsbury shall be required with each bid and be enclosed with the proposal; this guarantee to become the property of the Town of Shrewsbury if the bidder fails to execute the contract and satisfactory bond within ten (10) days after the contract may have been awarded to them.

The successful bidder will be required to furnish a 100 percent Performance Bond and a 100 percent Labor and Materials Bond.

EMPLOYMENT AND WAGE REQUIREMENTS. Attention is called to minimum wage rates to be paid on the work as determined by the Division of Occupational Safety under the provisions of Mass. G.L.C. 149, section 26 to 27H inclusive. Contractor is to be aware of hiring preferences for veterans and residents and the requirement for worker’s compensation coverage. All such requirements are set forth in Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 149, Sections 26 to 37.

The Contractor shall submit certified weekly payrolls in a form suitable to the Town and the Office of the Attorney General pursuant to an advisory dated April 8, 1994 from the Office of the Attorney General, a copy of which may be obtained in the Office of the Town Manager acting as Chief Procurement Officer of the Town of Shrewsbury.

The Contractor shall furnish labor in harmony with all other elements of labor employed in the work and that all employees employed on the worksite, or in the work subject to this bid, must successfully have completed at least ten hours of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) approved training (Chapter 306 of the acts of 2004).

Along with certificate of insurance, evidence of OSHA training certificate is also required to be submitted at that time as well as with the first certified payroll.

All bids for this project are subject to the provisions of Mass. G.L. (Ter. Ed.) C 30, Section 39M (a), as amended.

Bidders on this work will be required to comply with the Presi-

dent’s Executive Order No. 11246 (Affirmative Action to Ensure Equal Employment Opportunity) and any amendments or supplements thereto.

Price adjustments in accordance with MassDOT provisions shall apply to Liquid Asphalt, Diesel Fuel & Gasoline, Portland Cement & Steel. Current prices are posted monthly on the MassDOT website at WWW. MHD.STATE.MA.US/.

The Town reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, and waive informalities in the bidding procedure, or to accept the proposal deemed best for the Town.

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY

Kevin Mizikar, Town Manager

LEGAL NOTICE

The Shrewsbury Planning Board, will hold a public hearing on Thursday evening, September 7, 2023 at 7:00 PM, in the Selectmen’s Meeting Room, at the Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA, to hear the application of SELCO, 100 Maple Ave, Shrewsbury MA 01545, for Site Plan Approval by the Planning Board to allow for the construction and installation of battery energy storage. The Site Plan Approval is required by the Town of Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII.F.3. The proposed development is shown on plans entitled, “Shrewsbury BESS 2,” in one (1) sheet, dated January 5, 2023; prepared by Delorean Power, 1201 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA 22209. The subject property is located upon property 6-8 Worthington Avenue, southern of Boston Turnpike, westerly of Worthington Avenue and consists in whole or in part of

Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 32, Plots 414000.

A copy of the application and plans may be seen in the Office of the Planning and Economic Development Department at the Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA, and on the Planning Board website at https://shrewsburyma. gov/905/Meeting-Materials.

SHREWSBURY PLANNING BOARD

Julie Holstrom, Clerk

LEGAL NOTICE

The Shrewsbury Public Schools is seeking responses to a Request for Proposals [RFP] for a School Safety and Security Review to include eleven school and office sites.

RFP responses are due no later than September 12, 2023 at 4:00PM, EST. Please contact Chris Girardi, Asst Superintendent for Finance and Operations at cgirardi@shrewsbury.k12.ma.us or by calling 508-841-8405 for the RFP document. The RFP posting can also be accessed on the Town of Shrewsbury website at https:// shrewsburyma.gov/Bids.aspx

NORTHBOROUGH

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE NORTHBOROUGH PLANNING BOARD NORTHBOROUGH ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

In accordance with MGL Ch. 40A Sec. 5, the Northborough Planning Board and Zoning Board

of Appeals will hold a joint public hearing on September 5, 2023 at 6:00 PM for the purpose of seeking public opinion on proposed amendments to the Planning Board Fee Schedule and Zoning Board of Appeals Fee Schedule, and on the Draft Zoning Board of Appeals Regulations for Hiring Outside Consultants. Complete text of the proposed Planning Board fee schedule is available on the Planning Department webpage at https://www.town. northborough.ma.us/planningdepartment. The complete text of the Zoning Board of Appeals fee schedule and Regulations for Hiring Outside Consultants is available on the Zoning Board of Appeals webpage at https:// www.town.northborough.ma.us/ zoning-board-appeals.

Pursuant to Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023, An Act Relative to Extending Certain COVID-19 Measures Adopted During the State of Emergency, signed into law on March 29, 2023, this meeting will be conducted via remote participation. No in-person attendance by members of the public will be permitted. To participate in the public comment portion of this meeting from a PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone or Android device, please click this URL to join: https:// town-northborough-ma-us.zoom. us/j/82546102224 Passcode: 155770 Or join by phone: 1 646 876 9923 Webinar ID: 825 4610 2224 Passcode: 155770

Live Stream link YouTube: https:// www.youtube.com/channel/ UCRdBrw3HeEAMB_KFKasrgXA

Kerri Martinek, Chairperson

COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

Assabet Valley counselor to join statewide program

MARLBOROUGH – Maki Faria, a college and career counselor for Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School, has been selected for a statewide program that focuses on construction career tracks for students.

Faria was among the educators and academic leaders who will participate in the third annual Associated General Contractors of Massachusetts Building Advancement Externship. The externship was conducted Aug. 14-18.

The weeklong program provides exposure to the multifaceted regional commercial construction industry to Massachusetts-based high school and trade school leaders. Participants will take part in informative meetings with leadership at local firms, tour

active job sites, and visit the North Atlantic States Carpenters Training Facility. They will receive an overview of field training and safety programs and detailed instruction regarding project management and industry innovations.

Over the course of the program, participants will establish mutually helpful partnerships between their schools and

Marlborough schools to welcome immigrant

students

students and the construction leaders seeking to bring talented young people into their workforce.

In addition to Faria, Brooke Johnson of Blackstone Valley Technical High School will be taking part.

Each participant will receive a stipend of $3,000-$4,000 provided by the Massachusetts Construction Advancement Program. In addition, because the program is a DESE-recognized provider, participating vocational educators, guidance counselors and administrators are eligible to receive 40 professional development points toward continuing education requirements.

To learn more about the program, please visit www.constructingma.org/agc-ma-building-advancement-externship.

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – When the school year begins in a few weeks, Kane Elementary School will welcome at least 19 new students.

During the School Committee meeting on Aug. 2, Superintendent Mary Murphy presented details on the registration night held for immigrant/refugee families at the Holiday Inn on Aug. 1.

At the event, Marlborough Public Schools provided interpreters for Spanish and Creole, as well as assistance in registering. The district registered 25 students — 19 elementary, six secondary.

“It was one of the most joyful nights we’ve ever experienced,” said Murphy. “The kids are so excited to come to school.”

Most of the new elemen -

tary students will attend Kane because it’s the only school with enough space to add a classroom.

Since many of the new students do not speak English, Murphy recommended one English language teacher, one classroom teacher and two translators. The funds will come from grants recently obtained by MPS.

Murphy added that MPS will continue to work with Elliot Community Family Services of Lexington, an agency that offers a variety of programs for at-risk individuals and families.

The committee voted to approve the hirings and to change the date of its next meeting to Tuesday, Aug. 29.

It was also recently announced that MPS will offer free breakfast and lunch for the school year.

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By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH – A sign and façade program may be on the horizon.

The program was recently discussed during the Planning Board’s Aug. 1 meeting.

Planning Board member

Amy Poretsky noted that the Master Plan Implementation Committee recently held its third and final community meeting. Many of the final ideas could be expensive and may take years to develop, she said.

“But something like a sign and façade program could be low hanging fruit where you can start to make the downtown look a little nicer by working with some of the downtown businesses,” she said.

Sign, façade program

According to Planning Director Laurie Connors, the sign and façade program would be funded through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. She

suggested that $250,000 in ARPA funds could be requested for two programs: a sign program and a façade program.

Awards for the sign program would be a reimbursement grant and cap out at $2,000. There would be a 50% match. The applicant would submit a design for their sign for review. A committee would decide whether to grant the award, according to Connors.

Awards under the façade program would be capped at

$20,000. Connors said this program would also require a 50% match from the applicant. There are several activities that would be covered under the façade program, she said, including permanent landscaping, awnings, siding repairs and replacement, new windows, new doors, walkway improvements and ramps for accessibility.

“The point of the façade program is that the improvements would have to be made

to the street-facing façade,” Connors said.

For example, all of an applicant’s windows could not be replaced, but the frontfacing windows could be, she explained.

“The point is to get a dramatic impact at the street,” Connors said.

Code violations would be the priority, such as accessibility, doors and lighting, she said.

However, Poretsky and

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member Bill Pierce suggested that addressing code violations should be under a separate program.

“We can put in ARPA funds to get that done, but it’s a separate program than beautifying downtown. That’s fixing up downtown,” said Pierce.

After discussion, Connors said she would take it under advisement.

Because ARPA funds have to be fully committed by the town by Dec. 31, 2024, Connors said these would be short-term programs unless the town was able to find alternative funding. The ARPA funds have to be fully spent by the end of 2026.

“I think that [the program] really has some great potential,” said Connors. “Downtown commercial properties and businesses would be prioritized, but under the current program description any commercial property would be eligible to apply except for chain stores.”

The exception is because chain stores typically have specific requirements from headquarters in regards to their building, she said.

The Planning Board members discussed focusing the program on downtown properties.

In regards to downtown chain stores, Pierce suggested opening it to them so that the chains could look like other downtown properties.

Connors said there aren’t a lot of commercial properties in downtown Northborough. She said there were commercial properties “looking rough” on Main Street which may not be considered as part of downtown and why she wanted to open the program to a broader area in Northborough.

“One of my concerns is that if we limit it to the downtown, then we may not have the interest and then the program falls apart,” Connors said.

She suggested that a portion of the funds could be earmarked for downtown properties. However, if the Select Board reduced the ARPA allocation, Connors said she “would absolutely think that we should just focus on downtown.”

Connors has submitted a draft of the program description to the Select Board and plans on presenting to the board in early September.

Drone photography shows a look down Main Street in Northborough. The Planning Board recently discussed a sign and facade program.

PHOTO/TAMI WHITE

Ladybugz COO named Jewish Community Center board president

HUDSON – The COO of the Hudson-based Ladybugz Interactive Agency will be serving as the board president for the Worcester Jewish Community Center.

Billie Kenyon grew up at the Jewish Community Center (JCC) in Wilkes-Barre, Penn. She joined the Worcester JCC when she moved to Massachusetts.

“I feel like this was all destined to happen,” said Kenyon. “I’ve been a part of the JCC community for so long in PA and MA that this truly is an honor to be here.”

After she graduated from Clark University, Kenyon served as a board member and helped set up the center’s new Facebook page.

She has served on the board for 11 years and has embraced the role of vice president for the past two.

At Ladybugz, Kenyon has helped bring on over 40 new clients.

“Billie is one of the most

incredible people I have ever met,” said Ladybugz CEO and founder Lysa Miller. “I can’t wait to see what her future brings!”

Kenyon was unanimously voted to become the president of the board. On June 15, Kenyon gave a speech, accepting the role. She will succeed other past presidents, including Ron Rosenstock, Mary Jane Rein, Howard Stempler and George Pins.

“What I love the most about the JCC is the endless support it offers our community so individuals and families can reach their full potential,” Kenyon said.

She specifically noted “toptier” child enrichment and educational programs and health and fitness offerings.

In this role, Kenyon hopes to lead the expansion of the Early Childhood Center which would add an infant room and

expanded preschool rooms. This would open the center to more families and address a need in the Worcester community.

Worcester JCC Executive Director Emily Rosenbaum said the center was pleased to welcome Kenyon into this role.

“Billie is an incredible asset to the organization and brings so much energy and enthusiasm that it is highly contagious,” said Rosenbaum. “She

is a leader by example who is one to roll up her sleeves and get to work. We are so excited to have Billie as our leader for the Board of Directors.”

Kenyon was also named a “40 Under Forty” by the Worcester Business Journal. She is a graduate of the Worcester Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Worcester Program.

For more information on Ladybugz, visit https://www. ladybugz.com/.

Survey opens on Hudson’s open space plan

HUDSON – The town is seeking feedback on land protection, needed recreation and how recreation and conservation areas could be improved.

Hudson is in the process of updating its open space and recreation plan.

The survey will be open through Sept. 1. A link to the survey and more information can be found https://www.hudsonosrp.com/.

Billie Kenyon stands with past presidents and Executive Director Emily Rosenbaum.

Community says goodbye to Christmas Tree Shops

Ribbon cutting marks official opening for Cold Harbor

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – Cold Harbor Brewing Co. is officially open.

After a week of “soft opening,” the brewery/restaurant celebrated its arrival at 66 Otis St. with a ribbon cutting on Saturday, Aug. 12.

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – Hundreds of faithful shoppers from around the region traveled to the Christmas Tree Shops at Olde Shrewsbury Village for the store’s last day on Aug. 12 before permanently closing.

After over 50 years in business, the retailer filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in May, and soon announced that the company’s 15 stores in Massachusetts would close. The Shrewsbury location, which opened over 35 years ago, was one of the last remaining open stores in Massachusetts.

“It’s very sad. You could always come and find a great deal… It’s an icon,” said Donna Morriale, who traveled from Webster to visit the moribund retailer.

Having been completely emptied by bargain-seekers in the days leading up to closing, there wasn’t much left inside the store. What was left was inexpensive; certain decorations were up to 90% off. The store was also selling the shelves, racks and bins that once displayed their products in an attempt to completely empty the store.

For many shoppers, seeing the empty store evoked feelings of sadness. Many couldn’t help but remember the company’s heyday.

“It’s so sad I want to cry,” said Christmas Tree Shops superfan Karen Horowitz. “This was my favorite store, and it makes me so sad to see the people I’ve seen here forever losing their jobs.”

Horowitz, who once appeared in commercials for the company, said she often found comfort in shopping at the store. She said it was sad to see the store gradually change throughout the years.

“What they always did, they did amazingly, and then it changed. Whoever took over made it something it wasn’t. If they stayed with what they did best, it would’ve been forever,” she said.

Shrewsbury resident Amy Fisher, who had been shopping at the store for decades, said she was in disbelief when she first walked into the store.

“I walked in and my stomach dropped. I couldn’t believe it. It’s just awful,” she said.

Members of the Route 9/495 Corridor Regional Chamber of Commerce were among those welcoming the business, which started at Milk Street about 10 years ago.

“William and Jen Oliveira had a dream … they had a passion for beer,” said Karen Chapman, president and CEO of the chamber. “They made [Cold Harbor] a destination for Westborough. We are so proud of you. Thank you for choosing Westborough.”

State reps. Kate Donaghue (D-Westborough) and Hannah Kane (R-Shrewsbury), and a representative from state Sen. Michael Moore’s (D-Millbury)

office, presented citations from the State House.

“We’ll miss you on Milk Street,” said Donaghue, who lives near the original location.

Members of the Select Board were also on hand to congratulate Cold Harbor.

“You have exceeded expectations,” said Chair Sean Keogh.

Owner William Oliveira began his thanks with his “number one partner.”

“If it weren’t for Jen, none of this would have been possible,” he said.

He also credited his bank, his builder and his staff for Cold Harbor’s phenomenal start at Otis Street.

Cold Harbor will be open Sunday-Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Friday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. For the latest, visit https://www.facebook.com/ColdHarborBrewingCompany.

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William and Jen Oliveira cut the ribbon that marked the official opening of Cold Harbor Brewing Co.

PHOTOS/MAUREEN SULLIVAN

Scenes from the Christmas Tree Shops’ last day in business on Aug. 12.

PHOTO/EVAN WALSH

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Shrewsbury 10U baseball team overcomes Westborough to win championship

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – The Shrewsbury 10U all-star baseball team starts each of its practices by working on defense. Ground balls, line drives, double plays, pop-ups – you name it, they’ve spent hours practicing it.

“[Us coaches] probably hit the ball higher than any 10year player is going to hit the ball to them in the outfield. We hit the ball harder than any 10-year-old player is going to hit it to them in the infield,” Shrewsbury Head Coach Michael DiPiazza told the Community Advocate.

On Aug. 2, practice paid off for Shrewsbury. The team’s impressive defense was the difference in its matchup against Westborough’s 10U all-star squad. After defeating Westborough 3-1 at Northborough’s Casey Field, Shrewsbury claimed the Algonquin Invi-

tational Tournament championship.

The Shrewsbury offense got to work immediately, utilizing some “small ball” to score

Covering Specialists

the first run of the game. After Tommy Avis was hit by the pitch, he advanced to third base after two passed balls. An RBI fielder’s choice groundout

by Ryan Nazarey put Shrewsbury on the board.

Apart from Shrewsbury’s one run in the first inning, the Westborough pitching and

defense was excellent throughout the game. Westborough starter Luke Benoit pitched four strong innings of baseball, Championship | 35

Shrewsbury’s Vince Coletti fires a pitch toward home plate.

Westborough’s Calvin Silun makes contact with the ball.

PHOTOS/EVAN WALSH

Mike Notaro Jr. named Hudson boys’ basketball head coach

By Evan Walsh Reporter

HUDSON – Hudson didn’t have to look far for its next boys’ basketball head coach.

Mike Notaro Jr., the son of previous head coach Mike Notaro Sr., will lead the team this upcoming season. Notaro Jr. has served as an assistant coach for the last eight years.

“There’s nothing like going into a full gym with lots of students cheering you on. It’s like you’re back on the court yourself,” Notaro told the Community Advocate. “I just want to give these kids the best high school opportunity I can for basketball. I feel like I grew up with that great experience, and so I want to hand it off to as many kids as I can.”

Notaro grew up around sports. In high school, he played basketball, golf, and baseball, eventually playing golf in college. After graduating, Notaro turned to coaching to keep himself involved in sports. He coached basketball at Clinton

Middle School before starting coaching alongside his father in Hudson eight years ago.

“The past eight years have been awesome. When we first came here… the team had no wins, and within three years we went to a district championship game. Doing it with [my father] has been something I’ve grown up wanting to do. He’s been coaching me since I was a kid. Working with him was something really important to me,” Notaro said.

While Notaro had to apply for the position, the transition from father to son began some time ago. When the younger Notaro noticed years ago that his father’s coaching career may soon be coming to an end, he started to take on extra responsibilities.

“Over the past couple years, I could tell he was kind of getting to the end, so I’ve taken [on] more of a role,” Notaro said. “It’s not going to be much of a drastic change. Things will change, but there’s kind of been more of a

‘passing over’ the past couple of years anyway.”

While Notaro hopes the team will continue to enjoy success on the court, not everything will remain the same. Whereas the elder Notaro had a reputation for his loud and motivational coaching style, Notaro characterized himself as reserved and laid back.

Notaro also hopes to involve the youth, drumming up support for the team and hopefully creating future Hudson Hawk

basketball phenoms.

There will also be some staff shuffling. Although the lowerlevel coaches will remain the same, Notaro hopes to add an assistant coach to fill his previous post.

Notaro will face immediate challenges in his first season at the helm. Since last season, 11 athletes left the team. Only two full-time varsity players – division all-stars Jackson O’Brien and Jake Attaway – will return.

“We’re going to have a lot of first-year varsity players, but they’ve been practicing with these guys for two or three years… We’re looking for the younger kids to step up,” said Notaro, noting how varsity and JV teams practice together in Hudson.

With new players, new coaching, new uniforms and new gym flooring, the Hudson Hawks have been transformed, and Notaro is excited for the season to begin.

“I’m definitely more excited than nervous going into it,” he said.

Mike Notaro Jr. is Hudson’s next boys’ basketball head coach.

COURTESY/MIKE NOTARO JR.

“

I just want to give these kids the best high school opportunity I can for basketball.

Mike Notaro Jr. Head Coach

Shrewsbury 10U baseball team overcomes Westborough to win championship

Championship | from page 33 and the Westborough defense helped keep the game close.

However, Shrewsbury struck again in the third inning. After Mason Callahan placed the perfect bunt and reached first safely, Drew Rossetti — the 13-hole hitter — hit an RBI double that put Shrewsbury up 2-0. In the fourth, Rex Cooper’s two-out double extended the lead to 3-0.

“They’re a really, really good group of kids,” said DiPiazza, noting how well the team works together. “There’s no superstar [on this team]... every kid contributes… They’re focused, and they love baseball.”

Shrewsbury sent Vince Coletti to the mound. Coletti was strong, pitching five innings and striking out seven batters. Westborough consistently put the ball into play — the team out hit Shrewsbury — but the Shrewsbury defense was there when it mattered most.

Coletti didn’t seem nervous to pitch in the title game.

“I was excited,” he said after the game. “It’s fun to pitch in championships.”

Westborough came alive in the last two innings and forced Shrewsbury into unnerving situations. After already scoring one run in the fifth inning, Bodey Gardner’s two-out walk loaded the bases for Westborough. The opportunity was there, but Coletti struck out the next Westborough batter to end the threat.

Westborough still wasn’t done. With its back against the wall — just one out from elimination — Westborough brought the winning run to the plate in the sixth inning. However, the batter weakly grounded out, and Shrewsbury won the game 3-1.

“My heart was definitely pounding. I looked down at my watch and my heart rate was 114,” DiPiazza said.

Though the result was disappointing for Westborough, Head Coach Peter Bouchard said he felt honored to coach such an inspiring and incredible group of young athletes.

“These kids are fantastic. I love coaching them, and they’re all just great kids. It’s ten-year-old baseball. You’re going to win some, and you’re going to lose some. But I just feel so lucky to coach these kids. I can’t wait to do it again next year,” he said.

“Shrewsbury is fantastic and their defense is awesome. They always battle strong and they’re such a great team,”

Bouchard added. “Losing to Shrewsbury — it happens.” Shrewsbury has become somewhat of a little-league

dynasty of late. The 9U and 11U teams both competed in championships, and the Algonquin In vitational Tourna-

ment represents the second large tournament the 10U team has won this year. The team won in Oxford earlier in July.

PHOTOS/EVAN WALSH

Above: Shrewsbury celebrates after winning the tournament.

Right: Shrewsbury’s 10U team wins the Algonquin Invitational Tournament.