Business owners express concerns about proposed changes to tobacco regulations
By Sarah Freedman
Contributing Writer
HUDSON – Several representatives of local Hudson businesses attended the Aug. 21 meeting with the same goal: to voice their concerns about the proposed changes to the regulations regarding the sale of tobacco products.
In an Aug. 18 email, Director of Public and Community Health Lauren Antonelli noted, on behalf of the Board of Health (BOH) Chair Michael Delfino, that most of the major changes are “state required.”
There were representatives from Bacon’s Wine and Spirits, the Shell station on Main Street, and Quality Gas to support the collective concerns, but Brian and Tony Buscemi of Buscemi’s Convenience Beer & Wine mainly spoke about the issues they had with the draft update of BOH regulations.
“We’re here to voice our concerns about how the Hudson Board of Health keeps making regulations that have a dramatic negative impact on the 21 businesses that have tobacco licenses,” Brian said.
Brian spoke about the history of regulation changes, including raising the minimum age for purchasing tobacco products to 21 in 2018 and
By Evan Walsh Reporter
WORCESTER – Dozens of young fans, plenty of old teammates, and everyone in between gathered at the Worcester Ice Center on Aug. 22 to commemorate and celebrate the successful career of Marlborough’s own Bobby Butler.
Butler, who played in 130 National Hockey League games, officially retired from the ECHL’s Worcester Railers on Aug. 16.
Butler was born and raised in Marlborough, joining the Marlborough High School varsity hockey team while in eighth grade. In 2005 –his last year with the school program – Butler led his team to the state championship. Butler’s father, John Butler, spent decades coaching the school hockey team.
Preliminary election to be held for mayor, Ward 6 councilor
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
MARLBOROUGH – The deadlines have passed, the fields are filled and the lawn signs have begun to spring up across Marlborough. With the passing of the deadlines to file and return nomination papers, the city’s election slate is set. Candidates have until Thursday, Sept. 7, to withdraw.
The city will have a preliminary election on Tuesday, Oct. 10, for mayor and Ward 6 city councilor.
Five candidates are vying for mayor. Paul R. Ferro will join in the race, along with current city councilors J. Christian Dumais and Samantha Perlman, Michael Baker and Patrick Hogan.
In the race for Ward 6 city councilor, Maureen Brennan and Thomas Osborn will join
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 Vol. 49 | No. 35 September 1, 2023 Marlborough Hudson COMMUNITY ADVOCATE EDITION Council gets a look at the Armory at French Hill project Marlborough | 17 Hudson author publishes second children’s book Hudson | 16 Proudly 100% local content 100% FREE wenzel | 14 MHS freshman collects sneakers marlborough at a glance Election | 9 Tobacco | 7
Marlborough’s Bobby Butler retires from professional hockey
Butler | 15
PHOTO/EVAN WALSH
Worcester Mayor Joe Petty presented Bobby Butler with a ceremonial key to the city at Butler’s retirement ceremony.
THANK YOU to our college & high school SUMMER CREW!
This summer, The Willows at Westborough had the privilege of working alongside high school students from several local schools. We are so honored that you chose to spend your vacation with us and we wish you the very best of luck in your upcoming school year. We look forward to seeing you again over the holidays!
A very special thank you to Rori Arquin, Isabella Burgos, Mayling Cheng, Gabriella Conners, Molly Courchesne, Elise Croteau, Anushka Diddee, Caitlin Dullea, Penelope Desjardins, Sadie Dullea, Abigail Fiedler, Sydney Gage, Emily Gray, Ella Glasgow, Mia Grandin, Katherine Loban, Isabella McGuirk, Isabelle McNulty, Emily Perkins, Rylie Rohloff, Kayzie Salmon, Sophia Schmidt, Georgia Tyrrell, Anabella Taranto, Emmalyn Wen-Yi Tse, and Sophia Loretta Winsch.
2 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, September 1, 2023
One Lyman Street | Westborough, MA 01581 Now hiring for the fall, inquire here!
SHREWSBURY – Crews have been busy working on the construction of a McGovern Auto Group collision and fit-up center on Route 9. Plans were approved by the Planning Board in January. They also call for a Floor & Decor on the property. For more photos of the progress of the project, visit communityadvocate.com.
The Marlborough Police Command Officers Union proudly announces its endorsement of Patrick Hogan for the office of Mayor in the upcoming election. With an unwavering commitment to public safety, community well-being, and effective leadership, Hogan has demonstrated qualities that align with the values and priorities of the community.
Patrick Hogan’s track record of public service and dedication to enhancing the quality of life for all residents of Marlborough make him a compelling choice for the position of Mayor. The Marlborough Police Command Officers Union recognizes his comprehensive understanding of the complex challenges facing our city, and his steadfast support for the men and women who put their lives on the line to ensure our safety. His vision aligns with the Marlborough Police Command Officers Union’s core principles of promoting public safety, ensuring justice, and maintaining a strong, trusting bond with the residents we serve. The union is excited to stand behind a candidate who understands the unique challenges faced by law enforcement and is dedicated to building a stronger, more resilient community for all.
Union President
Stephan Lupien Mass-Cop Local
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letters to the editor The Community Advocate’s Policy on Letters to the Editor Letters must be signed with a name, address and telephone number for verification (only name and town will be printed). Letters should be sent to news@communityadvocate.com or mailed to Managing Editor c/o Community Advocate, 32 South St. Westborough MA 01581. The editor reserves the right to reject letters on the basis of length, libelous content, suitability and space constraints. Multiple letters from the same person will not be accepted within a 30 day period. “Form letter” submissions, in which the content of one letter is essentially duplicated, will not be accepted. Letters should be 350 words or less. Deadline is 12 p.m. Friday the week before publication. Opinions expressed in the letters to the editor do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Community Advocate management or its advertisers. letters to the editor Letters | 4 140 Turnpike Road, Rt. 9E, Westborough • 508-366-1942 • www.JuliosLiquors.com Shop In-store, Online, Delivery, or Pick-up! Free delivery on orders over $300 OPEN 7 DAYS Mon-Sat: 9 am - 9 pm Sun: 10 am - 7 pm Look inside this week’s Community Advocate for our AMAZING LABOR DAY SALE flier!
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State DPH conducts health equity survey
REGION – The state Department of Health is conducting a community health equity survey.
The Community Health Equity Initiative collects data on the social and structural causes of health needs facing residents, particularly in communities disproportionately affected by health emergencies.
The survey is for Massachusetts residents who are older than 14. The department specifically wants responses from communities that have been
Letters | from page 3
Iam writing in response to the Land Acknowledgement Statement that has been proposed by the leadership of the Shrewsbury Public Library. It was presented to the Select Board and covered in the August 18 Community Advocate.
I do not feel that it is appropriate for library leadership to take positions on social justice issues or other topics that
impacted by health inequities. Residents will have an opportunity to share their experiences and priorities to shape the future of health. The initiative strives to help communities and work with state and local partners to prioritize policy changes and where resources should be dedicated, including funding allocations and program improvements.
The survey opened on July 31. It will remain open through the early fall. Residents can take the survey online, and it will take between 15 to 30
are controversial and not vital to the function of the library. These are matters that are currently being debated (sometimes heatedly) by the general public. There is a real need to provide resources and an atmosphere where questions such as this can be addressed without library leadership weighing in.
Our public library is an essential part of having an educated population. The mission
St.
minutes to complete. The survey is available in several languages, including Arabic, Cape Verdean Creole, Chinese, English, Haitian Creole, Khmer, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish and Vietnamese.
The survey will also be available in American Sign Language for people who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Survey responses are anonymous. To take the survey, visit https://www.mass. gov/info-details/take-thecommunity-health-equitysurvey.
of the library includes being welcoming to everyone. When policy or positions are promoted that are not driven by the general citizenry, a door is being closed to some in the community who may not agree. This may further polarize and impair open and honest dialogue in the community and the development of consensus.
By Evan Walsh Reporter
SHREWSBURY – Looking for some mid-September fun?
St. Nicholas Orthodox Church is inviting community members to attend its Grapevine Picnic event on Sept. 10. The event will run from from noon to 5 p.m. on the church grounds.
The event will feature ethnic food, including mici — a type of Romanian grilled ground beef with spices — stuffed cabbage, chicken thigh, green beans, and mashed potatoes. The picnic will also have ethnic breads, cookies and baklava at the bake sale booth.
Aside from the delicious food, the event will also have music and raffles. The church invites people to share in the hospitality of the St. Nicholas community.
Admission to the picnic is free. Meals can be bought online for $30.00 prior to (or at) the event.
The picnic will take place rain or shine, and the church said it is welcoming donations and sponsors prior to the event. More information on the event can be found by visiting www.bit.ly/grapevineevent.
St. Nicholas Orthodox Church is located at 34 Gold St. in Shrewsbury.
4 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, September 1, 2023 COMMUNITY NEWS
Nicholas Orthodox Church
Sunday, September 10th Sunday, September 10th 11am - 5pm 11am - 5pm Downtown Marlborough Downtown Marlborough Food Trucks, Vendor & Artist Marketplaces, Live Food Trucks, Vendor & Artist Marketplaces, Live Bands, Breweries, Restaurants, Touch-A-Truck, Bands, Breweries, Restaurants, Touch-A-Truck, Games, Raffles, Crafts & more! Games, Raffles, Crafts & more! 2023 Marlborough 2023 Marlborough 2023 Marlborough Food Truck & Arts Festival Food Truck & Arts Festival Food Truck & Arts Festival Fun for all ages! Fun for all ages! Fun for all ages!
to hold Grapevine Picnic
B. Dale Magee, MD Shrewsbury
St. Nicholas Orthodox Church will be holding its Grapevine Picnic on Sept. 10.
PHOTO/LAURA HAYES
Looking for a Rewarding Career?
JOIN US!
MAB Community Services provides residential and individual supports, transitional assistance, and vocational programming for individuals with developmental disabilities or brain injuries in Greater Boston and Central Massachusetts. Join our team as we do good by helping others.
MAB Community Services Honors Excellence in Direct Care and Awards: $52,000 Total
MAB proudly recognizes our 12 winners and 13 finalists for 2023.
$10,000 Awards
Said Barko — Watertown
Said is extraordinarily kind to the participants. He engages with each of them in a caring and personally attentive manner.
Olamide Taiwo — Dedham
Olamide provides expert care to the participants and trains other staff, giving them greater confidence in their abilities.
$5,000 Awards
Ifeoluwa Alabi — Belmont
Ife loves the participants. He warmly greets each one and engages them with jokes, conversation, and asking about their day.
Judithe Vital — Dedham
Judithe is a model for the other staff, and everyone relies on her; she is respectful and supportive of other staff, helping them to improve.
Reynissa Prince — MABWorks
Reynissa balances improving operations at MABWorks with providing direct care and ensuring each participant’s full engagement in the community and their own lives.
Lukman makes the residential home a joyous home for the participants. He’s fully engaged, making sure that the participants feel loved and happy.
$2,000 Awards
Haley Kinnon — Individual Supports
Haley is a great communicator. She builds strong relationships with families and the care team, follows up, coordinates care, and keeps everyone informed.
Candice Kunneh — Hopkinton
Candice willingly takes on extra shifts to support short-staffed houses, spreading happiness wherever she works and serving as a positive and motivating leader, inspiring other staff members to strive for more.
Choice Omorotionmwan — Belmont
About the Maxo Joseph Excellence in Direct Care Awards
During the third annual Maxo Joseph Excellence in Direct Care Awards, MAB Community Services awarded $52,000 to our direct care staff in recognition of their excellence and dedication. These awards recognize our staff’s daily vital work to protect MAB participants’ health and safety and support their efforts to have full and satisfying lives. Our community united to fund a program to honor our best direct care staff each year. This awards program honors Maxo Joseph, an exceptional teammate who worked for MAB for nearly 20 years and died from COVID-19.
Choice exhibits a wonderful attitude towards her work, entering with boundless energy and a desire to give her best, making her an exceptional team member and a positive role model for other staff.
Pearl Osasogie Oni-Edwards — West Roxbury
Pearl’s immense passion for the participants makes the home feel like family, as evident from the participants’ love for her. They cry when she’s not there and eagerly await her return.
Jeremiah Veal — Hyde Park
Jeremiah’s unwavering dedication to the residents at the house drives him to provide the best care possible, all while treating each individual with the utmost respect and attention they deserve.
The Rising Star Award — $2,000
Macdonald’s persistence shines through as he tenaciously works with each participant, never giving up after one attempt. His dedication has earned him the respect of his fellow staff members.
COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, September 1, 2023 • 5
MAB C ommunity Ser vices brain injury developmental disability vision rehabilitation
more at www.mabcommunity.org
Learn
Lukman Salami — Roslindale
Macdonald Quaye — Shrewsbury
APPLY TODAY! tinyurl.com/mabcareers SCAN HERE TO APPLY
Capital Gains Tax When You Sell Property
WRITTEN BY ASHLEY SUTPHIN
Ifyou’re selling a home, what you make could be taxable. Depending on your property’s value and other factors, you might be hit with a big tax bill that you weren’t expecting.
Capital gains on real estate can be taxed, but there are things you can do to reduce or avoid what you owe to the IRS when you sell your house.
A capital gains tax is the fee you’re responsible for paying on profits you make when you sell an asset. Your capital gains taxes can apply to stocks, bonds, and tangible assets such as cars, boats, and real estate. The IRS and many states also assess the capital gains taxes on the difference between what you’re paying for your asset,
known as your cost basis, and what you sell it for.
Capital Gains and Real Estate
The capital gains you might owe if you sell your home vary depending on your tax filing status and the sales price of your home. You may also be eligible for an exclusion. The IRS might allow you to exclude up to $250,000 of capital gains on the sale of real estate if you’re single and up to $500,000 on
real estate if you’re married and file jointly.
If any of a certain number of factors are true, you then pay tax on the entire gain of the sale of your home. These factors include:
• The home wasn’t your main residence.
• You owned the property for fewer than two years in the five years before selling it.
• Not living in the house for at least two years in the five years before you sold it.
• You claimed the available exclusion on another home in the two years before selling this current home.
• Buying the house through a like-kind exchange, which is a 1031 exchange in the past five years.
• You have to pay expatriate tax. If you do owe taxes on what you made from selling your home, different capital gains tax rates can apply.
Capital Gains Tax Rates
If you owned the asset for a period of less than a year, then typically, short-term capital gains tax rates apply. The rate is the same as your tax bracket. Long-term capital gains tax rates will usually apply if you have owned the asset for more than a year. A lot of people qualify for a 0% rate, but depending on your income and filing status, you might pay 15% or 20%.
Avoiding Capital Gains Taxes When Selling a Home
Some of the things you can avoid having a tax bill from selling your home include:
• The best way to avoid taxes is to live there for at least two years, which don’t have to be consecutive. If you’re a house flipper, you must be careful here. If you sell a house you didn’t live in for at least two years, your gains can be taxed. If you sell in less than a year, it’s particularly expensive because you may have to pay the higher shortterm tax rate.
• Determine if you qualify for an exception. You might still be able to exclude some of the taxable gains on the sale of your home because of work, health, or an unforeseeable event.
Finally, if you make any improvements, keep your receipts. The cost basis of your home will include what you paid to buy it and the improvements you made over the years. If your cost basis is higher, you may have a lower amount of capital gains taxes to pay. Remodels, expansions, and other updates can reduce your taxes.
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6 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, September 1, 2023 This is a paid advertisement HOMES
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owners express concerns about proposed changes to tobacco regulations
Tobacco | from page 1 banning the sale of flavored tobacco products in 2022. These decisions were made a year and six months, respectively, before the state laws changed, he said.
“This made it impossible for us to sell our current inventory,” Brian said. “Hudson businesses lost thousands of dollars in sales.”
In addition, he said sales went to surrounding towns as a result because “people are just going to the next town over.” When Tony asked the BOH about the decision, he said the reasons given were that the board was able to do it and that lives would be saved due to the health effects of tobacco.
As he believed people are not going to just stop smoking, Brian said, “All it’s doing is hurting businesses.”
He expressed concern that no impacted businesses were notified about the Aug. 14 BOH meeting about the restrictions to tobacco sales.
“I found out from one of my customers,” Brian said. “We
should be notified if there’s any hearings that are going to impact our business.”
He believed there are key issues that had “the potential to put some of us out of business,” like a new fining structure. He said if a business violates BOH regulations, the fines are $1,000 and a permit suspension for up to 30 days for a first offense, $2,000 and up to a 45-day suspension for a second one and $5,000 and up to a 60-day suspension.
For comparison, in the current regulations the first three violations carry fines of $100, $200 and $300, with the first violation having no suspension included and the second and
third having seven- and 30-day suspensions.
“If we could not sell tobacco products for 30 days, it could put us out of business. It’s 25% of our business,” Brian said.
As a business is a family’s livelihood, he said they do not want to sell to minors and try to prevent it with proper training for hires.
Another issue was the fact the tobacco license would not transfer to the new owner, like a liquor license. It would go to the first person on the waiting list for one of the only 21 tobacco licenses allowed in Hudson.
Brian said he was told this change was made in 2015, but
he added that the current language says there is a 60-day window from the sale for the new owner to apply for the permit.
While the number of licenses would not change, he said it is “going to destroy the resale value of our businesses for small family-owned businesses.”
It could impact the ability to sell the business, which for some provides a retirement fund, he said.
Tony believed the current 21 businesses should be grandfathered in as some owners bought their stores, and “we paid money for our license.”
He added, “We have investments in our business.”
Brian asked the Select Board and Executive Assistant Thomas Gregory if there was anything they could do or if they had any suggestions for next steps.
Select Board Chair Scott Duplisea said “We, as a Select Board, … don’t have the allwheeling authority” to over-
rule another board.
Duplisea said they are here to listen to citizens about their concerns. He added it is “important to all of us” to hear from small business owners.
Antonelli said the BOH accepted written testimony until Aug. 28 and at the Sept. 12 meeting would review testimony and vote on the proposed regulations.
Duplisea suggested that Brian send his concerns and comments to the BOH by the Aug. 28. deadline.
Duplisea said, “I think the Board of Health has some work to do.”
Select Board Clerk Judy Congdon said that it was evident there were other businesses that did not know about the proposed regulation changes and said the BOH should not “be going above and beyond what the state regulations are” by adding suspensions for violations.
She urged them to put their concerns into writing to the BOH.
COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, September 1, 2023 • 7 COMMUNITY NEWS
Julio’s Liquors Tatnuck Bookseller & Café Stop & Shop Staples 28,780 SF available For leasing information Dona Colangelo, RPA dcolangelo@julioenterprises.com Progressive Realty Consultants 508.366.4163 NOW LEASING westboroughshoppingcenter.com Westborough Shopping Center Convenient to Routes 9, 495 and the Mass Pike Office tenants may select from a variety of floor plans and rental options in and adjacent to the Westborough Shopping Center. Drive by traffic of 90,000 cars per day! Progressive Realty Consultants Three Gorges & Mayuri Mandarin Mexicali Cantina Grill Subway 508.366.4163 10 Technology Drive • Hudson • 978-562-4400 www.checkerboardsrestaurant.com LIKE US ON FACEBOOK Steaks & Ribs Fresh Seafood Homemade Italian Pasta Dishes Full Menu for Takeout Available IPA’S on Tap Our food is made on the premises using the nest and freshest ingredients. Free Internet when dining now available Casual Dining at its Best! TAKE OUT AVAILABLE Recreational & Competitive Dance Ages 2.5 & Up All Levels OPEN HOUSE Thursday, August 31, 3-6 p.m. Classes begin Monday, September 11, 2023 Ballet • Jazz • Tap Hip Hop • Acro • Contemporary Lyrical • Musical Theatre Combination Classes www.northboroughdance.com • 508-873-5944 386 West Main St., Northborough, MA
Business
“
If we could not sell tobacco products for 30 days, it could put us out of business. It’s 25% of our business.
Brian Buscemi Buscemi’s Convenience Beer & Wine
Dining Services director gives update on Free Meals for All, meal participation
By Sarah Freedman
Contributing Writer
HUDSON – With the funding for Free Meals for All now permanent and included in Gov. Maura Healey’s budget, Director of Dining Services Michelle DePaul gave the highlights of what the department had been up to and what the funding means for Hudson students at the Aug. 22 Hudson School Committee meeting.
The budget includes $172 million in funding to be used for the Free Meals for All program.
DePaul said one of the prominent topics for food services is that the state approved another year for the Free Meals for All initiative, and it is now permanently in the budget.
Regardless of household income, children will get free meals. Massachusetts was the fifth state in the United States to fund a permanent free meal program, according to DePaul.
“Every student in every school can get one free breakfast and one free lunch perma-
nently,” DePaul said.
She noted that they are encouraging families to fill out an application, which could be found at the Hudson Public Schools website, www.hudson. k12.ma.us.
She said, “This just helps provide data for our funding for the year.”
As for data regarding meal participation, with the introduction of the Free Meals for All as a temporary measure in the 2022-23 school year, she said there was a steady increase from 2019.
The district average went from 42% to 59% participation
with a slight dip in 2023 at Hudson High School and Quinn Middle School.
New school year
In other news, Superintendent Brian Reagan reported on the preparations for the start of the new school year.
He said, “We’re in really good shape to open up on Wednesday for students.”
He said the district is in good shape in terms of personnel as they are finalizing the filling of current vacancies at the high school and middle school for Spanish and part-time music positions, respectively.
The district is struggling to find paraprofessionals to fill spots, Reagan said, an issue that Hudson is “not alone” in facing. They do a lot of advertising at parishes and places where families gather to get interested parties, he noted.
He said if anyone is interested in working in the Hudson schools as a paraprofessional or a therapist, the person can go to the school website to apply. Director of Pupil Services Catherine Kilcoyne estimated there were about 70 paraprofessionals set to work in the district this year.
He added, “They’re very rewarding positions.”
In transitioning into the superintendent role, Reagan has met with town leaders, including the police and fire chiefs in late July and the Executive Assistant Thomas Gregory and Finance Committee Chair Sam Calandra in August.
He said the “biggest piece for the fall that I’m excited about” is the residencies he will do at each school in the district.
All week, he added, “I will function out of that building, not out of Apsley Street.”
He said he is “really looking forward” to the residencies and working out of those schools.
School Committee member Christopher Yates said, “It’s great you’re going to be in all of the five schools for a week.”
He also commended Reagan on meeting with the town leadership and asked how the meeting with the Finance Committee went. Reagan said it went well.
He added, “He was very complimentary to the district in general, school committee leadership.”
While Calandra recognizes the work that goes into the school budget, he is also realistic, Reagan said.
Calandra suggested that Reagan work with the strategic planning subcommittee to develop a “digestible and succinct message that the average citizen in town can understand” regarding the financial future of the Hudson School District.
8 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, September 1, 2023 COMMUNITY NEWS
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PHOTO BY SARAH FREEDMAN
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Election | from page 1
Michael T. Cabral and Albert T. Fuccillo in a bid to replace Sean Navin, who is running for at-large councilor.
Here’s an updated look at the seats, as of Aug. 22:
At-Large – Michael Ossing, the current council president, will be on the ballot, as will Sean Navin, Kathleen Robey, Mark Oram, James Jumonville and Scott King.
Ward 1 – currently held by Laura Wagner (not running for re-election). Mark Vital has returned his papers and will be on the ballot.
election to be held
Ward 2 – currently held by David Doucette (returned papers). James Jumonville has returned papers and will be on the ballot.
Ward 3 – currently held by Dumais (running for mayor). Robert Preciado has returned papers and will be on the ballot.
Ward 4 – currently held by Teona C. Brown (returned papers). Thomas Edward Dalton has returned papers and will be on the ballot. Quincy Mosby and Jovani Cloutier did not return papers.
Ward 5 – currently held by
Ward 6 councilor
John Irish (returned papers).
Ward 6 – currently held by Navin (running for at-large councilor). Cabral, Fuccillo, Osborn and Brennan have returned papers and will be on the ballot.
Ward 7 – currently held by Donald Landers Sr. (returned papers). Harmony Larson has returned papers; both will be on the ballot.
School Committee – Incumbents David Caruso, Heidi Matthews and Katherine Hennessy have returned nomination papers.
Assabet Valley School Com-
Part of Brigham Street closed for culvert work
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
HUDSON – Brigham Street will be closed from Tuesday, Aug. 22, until further notice due to culvert work.
The portion of Brigham affected is between Harriman Road and Park Street.
Those using Brigham Street will be detoured onto Harriman, right onto Reardon Road, then onto Park.
Those using Park Street to access Brigham will be detoured to Park, then left onto Rutland to Washington Street.
For details, visit https://www.townofhudson. org/.
mittee – Incumbent Peggy Ayres has returned papers.
About the election
Residents will have until Friday, Sept. 29, at 5 p.m. to register to be eligible to vote in the Preliminary Municipal Election, and until Friday, Oct. 27, at 5 p.m. to register to be eligible to vote in the Municipal Election.
Absentee and/or vote-bymail ballots will be available to residents who file an absentee/ vote-by-mail ballot application; these can be obtained by either visiting the city clerk’s office or at www.marlboroughma.gov.
Please contact the city clerk’s office at 508-460-3775 with any questions.
COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, September 1, 2023 • 9 COMMUNITY NEWS Preliminary
for mayor,
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Selection, satisfaction key at Spotlight Kitchen, Bath & Lighting Design Center
By Evan Walsh
Reporter
WORCESTER – Dreaming of a new kitchen or bath? Looking to brighten up your home?
Spotlight Kitchen, Bath & Lighting Design Center helps clients turn their ideas into reality.
The company’s expansive showroom, conveniently located in Central Worcester (86 Shrewsbury Street), features hundreds of unique cabinets, countertops, light fixtures, and more. Having something for everyone is the hallmark of Spotlight’s business.
“We have everything from builder-grade semi-custom to full custom,” said Lighting Specialist Morgan Vance. “We try to keep up with the most unique design trends while also having basic designs that can fulfill anyone. We have products for those looking for something affordable that still look really
nice, and we also have high-end custom designs. We have everything.”
Spotlight’s incredible selection means that the company helps people with different budgets. From affordable cabinetry to high-end options, Spotlight has you covered. Looking for lighting? According to Vance, the company has over 2 million different lighting possibilities — you won’t find that many at nearly any other company.
“What makes Spotlight stand out is our huge selection… [we] cover all the bases,” Vance said.
But Spotlight isn’t just there to sell you something. In fact, Spotlight designers are more interested in reimagining your kitchen and leaving you with the perfect design. Designers are well-versed and dedicated, attending annual shows to keep up with new product releases and the latest lighting and cabinetry trends. You’re never on
your own at Spotlight.
The designers, like Vance, leverage their years of experience to create the perfect design. Vance mentioned that lighting can “make or break a space,” and said she enjoys helping people solve their underlit areas. Designers also help clients
determine which fixtures will look best.
Spotlight has the staff to guide clients through important design choices. It all starts with a free-of-charge, in-home consultation. The designers will measure the area — the ceiling heights, the windows,
the openings — and talk to the client to understand what they hope to achieve with the space. After, and still free-of-charge, Spotlight works up a design for the client.
“We don’t charge anything until we sell the product,” Vance said. “[Owner] Alban [Gega] says that he likes his designs to sell themselves.”
Designers are also very conscientious about pricing and can go the extra mile to design something that is both costeffective and stunning.
“Our designers are wellversed in what’s going to add the extra cost. If the client takes a look and says ‘Wow, I really like this design, but I need to come down [in price],’ then the designer is going to [adjust],” Vance said.
With myriad options, inhome consultations, and knowledgeable and friendly staff, Spotlight makes interior
Spotlight Kitchen | 11
NicknamesOllie Wally, Olz
Favorite FriendsSonny, Gracie, Ollie P. & Kira
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Music school to move to Northborough Crossing
School of Rock has signed a lease for space in Northborough Crossing.
Eggholic to open in Shrewsbury
By Evan Walsh Reporter
SHREWSBURY – You may have seen the sign along Route 9 — Eggholic is set to open in Shrewsbury.
On Aug. 22, the Select Board unanimously approved Eggholic’s victualler license.
The Eggholic — located at 378 Maple Ave. — is planning to open on Sept. 15.
By Laura Hayes
Managing Editor
NORTHBOROUGH – A music education school is coming to Northborough Crossing.
On Aug. 24, Capital Group Properties announced that School of Rock has signed a lease for space in Northborough Crossing.
According to a press release, School of Rock teaches students music techniques and theory and how to apply those skills in their performances. There are
325 locations across the world with 60,000 students of all ages and skill levels.
Its Northborough site will be located in a 3,000-squarefoot space within the shopping center.
School of Rock will join other businesses in the plaza, including Pure Barre, Margaritas, Jimmy John’s and Anzio’s Brick Oven Pizza. Earlier this week, the new Club Champion opened in Northborough Crossing.
School of Rock is estimated to open in late 2023.
Eggholic is an Indian fastcasual restaurant. The menu is filled with authentic Indian food, including egg curry, masala half fry, rassa bhurji and cheese katori. As the store name implies, almost every menu item features egg in some form.
Eggholic has 14 locations throughout the United States and Canada. The Shrewsbury location is one of nine new Eggholic restaurants set to open throughout North America in the near future.
“We’re really excited you chose Shrewsbury first of all,” said Select Board Chair Beth
Casavant. “I checked out the menu for other Eggholics and the food looks fantastic. I think that you’ll be extremely successful.”
“Welcome to Shrewsbury and thanks for selecting Shrewsbury,” said Select Board member Theresa Flynn. “I agree. I looked at the menu. It looks amazing. I’m very excited to try you out when you open in September.”
The Select Board approved the alcohol and victuallers licenses with the condition that Eggholic secures an up-to-date certificate of occupancy. After some confusion regarding the hours of operation, the owners clarified the business plans to be open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. For more information about Eggholic, visit https://www. theeggholic.com/
Selection, satisfaction key at Spotlight Kitchen, Bath & Lighting Design Center
Spotlight Kitchen | from page 10 design easy. It’s no wonder the company has become among the most trusted in the community over the last 10 years.
“We want to cater to you. At the end of the day, it’s your kitchen. We just want to bring it to life,” Vance said. “We’re very personable people. We like to keep it personal. Business is business, but at the end of the day, we remain friends with
many of our clients.”
Spotlight Kitchen, Bath & Lighting Design Center is located at 86 Shrewsbury Street in Worcester. Visit the company’s website at https://www. spotlightkitchens.com/ or call (508) 762-9095 for an in-home consultation.
Business Profiles are advertising features designed to provide information and background about Community Advocate advertisers.
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WooSox mascots help boost summer reading program
Illustrator
Ethan Cyr created this reading poster featuring the mascots from the Worcester Red Sox, Woofster, Smiley and Roberto Rocket.
Hudson culinary community gathers for Armory event
HUDSON – The community is invited to attend a night of delectable flavors, community camaraderie and philanthropy at “Dine and Gather around the Armory” Sept. 10.
Local chefs, restaurants, breweries and shops from Hudson created a menu that features the culinary talents of the area.
President of the Hudson Cultural Alliance and Hudson Armory Project Tom Desmond said the event is a testament to
the power of collaboration.
“Our community’s culinary talents are joining forces to make a meaningful impact on the Hudson Armory Project,” he said. “Through each bite, each sip and each shared moment, this event reflects the essence of Hudson’s diverse culinary scene. We’re proud to contribute to the transformation of the Armory into a cultural hub”.
The participating establishments include Kith and Kin, Mullahy’s, Rail Trail, Clo-
ver Road Brewery, Welly’s, Horseshoe Pub, Medusa, Wild Hare, Crosenest, Harvard Sweet Boutique, Amaia Martini Bar, Lalos, Taco Gato, New City Microcreamery and Good Earth Holistic Kitchen.
The event kicks off with cocktails and appetizers at 4 p.m. All funds raised will support the Armory Project.
For more information and ticket details, visit https://givebutter.com/GatherAroundTheArmory.
MARLBOROUGH – The city recently wrapped up its summer reading program for elementary school students.
The wrap-up featured an appearance from some special reading ambassadors from the Worcester Red Sox — Smiley, Woofster and Roberto Rocket.
Nicole Cyr, a special education teacher for prekindergarten-grade two, organized the
program. It consisted of tutoring and reading for English language learners, and special education students for grades K-five.
Although the summer program is over, Cyr encourages students to keep reading in order to enhance their spelling, fluency and vocabulary skills; improve their self-esteem; and boost memory skills.
MARLBOROUGH – Mayor
Arthur Vigeant and Parade Director Melanie Whapham have announced some of the participants in the 71st Labor Day Parade.
New parade entries include the U.S. Navy’s USS Constitution Honor Guard, the 6th Middlesex Regiment, the Quaker City String Band from Philadelphia, the McGann Marching Band, Chick-fil-A featuring its cow mascot, and the WOO
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SOX ambassadors and mascots representing the Worcester Red Sox.
This year’s parade will feature fan favorites – the Assabet Technical High School Junior Marines ROTC Color Guard; the Marlborough High School Marching Panther Band under the direction of Jimmy Verdone; UMass Lowell Marching Band under the direction of Deb Huber; the Middlesex Sheriff’s Honor Guard; the
Middlesex
County Volunteers Fifes and Drums; the Colonial Pipers; the Marlborough Shamrocks; and Flashback. The Aleppo Shriners will present their full entourage, including mini replica cars and the clown train.
The 71st annual Labor Day Parade is Monday, Sept. 4, at noon. Live coverage will be broadcast on WMCT-TV with emcees Trish Pope and Steve LeDuc.
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Financial Aid Changes To Impact This Fall’s College Applications
We’ve come to expect Congress naming new legislation that exaggerates impact but does little to be true to it’s name.
Inflation Reduction Act. Secure Act. American Rescue Plan Act.
Now add “FAFSA Simplication Act”, which makes the upcoming 2024-2025 college admissions process a complicated mess.
To be balanced, here are the benefits per advocates:
• Easier FAFSA application process with a reduced number of questions.
• The Federal Pell Grant expands to more students and will link eligibility to family size and the federal poverty level.
Glenn Brown, CFP
• The Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) has been replaced by the Student Aid Index (SAI).
This last one is interesting because SAI is based on a comprehensive database of education costs that includes tuition and fees, room and board, and other living expenses. The index also includes data on financial aid awarded to students, such as grants, scholarships, and loans.
By calculating the average cost of college for a given school and comparing it to the average amount of financial aid awarded, the index can provide a more accurate estimate of the student’s EFC and help make more informed decisions about which school to attend.
Ok, enough of the accolades, let’s get to the complications and impact.
Two Different Views. Both students and parents must create a Student Aid Account to get an FSA ID before completing the form. Previously a shared signon allowed for a singular view, now each completes their respective sections and continuity becomes more challenging.
No longer does the most capable parent complete. For divorced or separated parents, the one providing greater financial support over past calendar year must now complete the FAFSA. Yes, not the parent most engaged to ensure accuracy and meet deadlines,
but the one who provides the most money. So much for a fiduciary process.
Paying for two or more kids in college at same time? Who cares. The number of students a family has enrolled in college will no longer factor into the FAFSA calculation.
You aren’t selling the farm or small business you’ve built, but if you had to…? The net worth of family farms and small businesses with under 100 employees will now be required as part of the application. Maybe having to sell is a strong ask, but borrowing against isn’t - otherwise, why ask now?
All applicants, especially Early Action / Early Decision (EA/ED), your school’s deadlines will be before FSFSA opens. Historically, FAFSA opens October 1 and EA/ED deadlines followed in mid-October through November. Per the federal government, this year FAFSA has “an anticipated December 2023 launch date”. The colleges aren’t waiting around, they’re keeping October and November EA/ED application deadlines, including CSS Profile schools.
For example, state university UMass-Amherst has a Early Action deadline of November 5 and Regular Decision of January 15, but the FAFSA priority deadline is March 1 and state deadline for Massachusetts is May 1.
CSS Profile school Williams College states, “The FAFSA is not an initial requirement for the 2024-2025 academic year, given the uncertainty of the FAFSA Simplification Act application timeline. Enrolled students will be required to complete the FAFSA by May 15th.”
So don’t prioritize completing the FSFSA before submitting your college applications this year.
Instead work on the admissions application now, continue your student’s building of a relationship with the university’s local academic recruiter and stay focused on Return On Investment (ROI) during the selection process.
The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.
Glenn Brown lives in MetroWest and is owner of PlanDynamic, LLC, www.PlanDynamic.com. He is a fee-only Certified Financial Planner™ helping motivated people take control of their planning and investing, so they can balance kids, aging parents and financial independence.
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PROFESSIONAL PERSPECTIVES
MARLBOROUGH – Labor Day
weekend in Marlborough can be a fun time for everyone. There is Sts. Anargyroi Greek Church’s Festival on Friday (5-11 p.m.), Saturday (noon to 11 p.m.) and Sunday (noon to 11 p.m.). Memorial Beach will be available for swimming and making sand castles. There will be a Mummers performance Sunday with the Quaker City String Band of Philadelphia (4
- 5:30 p.m.) at the Whitcomb Middle School. Marlborough’s 71st Labor Day Parade will highlight Monday, beginning at noon. Admission to all events is free.
A DONATION of backpacks and school supplies was made to the Marlborough Public Schools in memory of Katy Mahoney, spearheaded by her mom, Liz. Katy passed away from cancer as a young child. To keep her
memory alive, donations were made by members of the First Church in Marlborough, Congregational.
A HUGE SHOUT OUT goes to Isaac Ladas, a Marlborough High School freshman, who collected over 400 pairs of sneakers (his goal was 300) as the results of his “Stepping Up” sneaker drive benefitting the Marlborough Community Cupboard. Local students picked
out a favorite pair to wear back to school. Big thanks to Isaac and his mom, Amanda, for organizing this to help those who needed new shoes.
MARLBOROUGH MAYOR
Arthur Vigeant invites residents to help beautify a public space on a busy thoroughfare in Marlborough. Join local muralist Melissa Stratton to create paint squares, that will make up the face of the Mayor’s Mural Proj-
Isaac Ladas, a Marlborough High School freshman, collected over 400 pairs of sneakers (his goal was 300) as the results of his “Stepping Up” back to school sneaker drive. Big thanks to Isaac and his mom, Amanda, for organizing this to help those who needed new shoes.
ect, on Sunday, Sept., 3, noon to 2 p.m., at Union Common. All are welcome to participate, kids included.
MARLBOROUGH will be part of the ‘Town Takeover Series’ at Polar Park as the Worcester Red Sox host different towns and cities during a game. Join the Woo Sox on Wednesday, Sept. 13, at 6:45 p.m. The non-profit to be honored during this game will be the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metrowest. You can purchase tickets here: https://fevogm. com/event/MarlboroughatWooSox. Tickets purchased through the link will benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metrowest. Polar Park is located at 100 Madison Street, Worcester.
MARLBOROUGH MAYOR
Arthur Vigeant and Labor Day Parade Director Melanie Whapham are pleased to announce that the Quaker City String Band of Philadelphia will perform in this year’s parade and hold a special performance the day before. This String Band is a Philadelphia Mummers group entertaining since 1901. The performance will take place on Sunday, Sept. 3, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Doors open at 3:30 p.m. at the Whitcomb Middle School auditorium. Admission is free. Those attending are encouraged to bring canned goods and non-perishables to be donated to the Marlborough Community Cupboard.
THE PETER RICK HOMESTEAD at 377 Elm St., Marlborough, the home of the Marlborough Historical Society, will be open for free tours on Sept. 17, 1 to 4 p.m. Come and enjoy the homestead and its rich history. It will also be a time to learn about Marlborough’s heritage.
THE MARLBOROUGH Food Truck and Arts Festival will be held Sept. 10, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the corner of Rte. 85 and Main Street. Admission is free.
14 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, September 1, 2023 COMMUNITY NEWS Donations made in memory of Katy Mahoney, MHS freshman collects sneakers Take advantage of one of our SPECIAL PROMOTIONS when you open a new personal checking account by September 30, 2023 and use your new Rockland Trust Debit Card to make at least 15 purchases of $10 or more within 60 days of account opening. by December 29, 2023 Cash O er $2503 on balances of $10,000 - $999,999.99 (promo guaranteed for 120 days) Personal Money Market 4.75 APY % 1 with a minimum opening deposit of $1,000 6 Month CD 5.25 APY % 2 Stop by your nearest branch or visit RocklandTrust.com to learn more. 1. Account must be opened at one of our Belmont, Salem, Shrewsbury, Westborough, or Worcester branch locations to receive the promotion. Promotional rates are valid for 120 days from account opening. As of July 28, 2023 the promotional Annual Percentage Yield (APY) for Personal Money Market Promo account is 0.10% for balances from $1 to $9,999.99; 4.75% for balances from $10,000 to $999,999.99; 1.50% for balances of $1,000,000 and greater. The APY for each balance tier in your Personal Money Market Promo account will apply to the entire balance - for example, if you have $1 million or more, the 1.50% APY will apply to the entire $1 million. The current APYs after the 120 day promotional period are 0.10% for balances from $1 to $9,999.99; 1.15% for balances from $10,000 to $49,999.99; and 1.50% for balances of $50,000 and greater. Fees may reduce earnings. Rates are subject to change after the account is opened. O er may end at any time. Restrictions may apply. See a banker for details. 2. The Annual Percentage Yield is valid as of July 28, 2023. The minimum balance to open is $1,000. O er valid at our Shrewsbury, Westborough, and Worcester branch locations. A penalty is imposed for an early withdrawal from a CD. Fees may reduce earnings. Available as an IRA, though early withdrawals on IRA CDs may be subject to IRS early withdrawal penalties - consult your tax advisor. Must have or open a personal checking account with Rockland Trust to qualify for this o er. The new CD must be funded with new money to Rockland Trust. O er may end at any time. 3. To be eligible for the $250 bonus you must open a new checking account between July 1, 2023 and September 30, 2023 and use your new Rockland Trust Debit Card to make at least 15 purchases of $10 or more within 60 days of your account opening date. ATM transactions do not qualify. Transactions must post and settle to the account in order to qualify. The bonus will be paid directly to your account by December 29, 2023. Account must be open and have a positive balance at the time the bonus is credited. Bonus payment will be reported to the IRS for the tax year in which it is paid. Checking account must be opened at our Belmont, Salem, Shrewsbury, Westborough, or Worcester branch locations. Restrictions may apply. See a banker for details. Member FDIC Our local team has so much to offer. MONDAY: Belly Roll TUESDAY: Bang Bang Shrimp Roll WEDNESDAY: Key West Haddock Roll THURSDAY: Calamari Roll Tossed in Sweet Asian Chili Sauce w/Fried Banana Peppers FULL SERVICE INDOOR & OUT DOOR DINING - WEATHER PERMITTING SPECIALS! 149 Turnpike Rd. (Route 9W) • Westborough BEST SEAFOOD IN TOWN…GREAT BBQ’S TOO! HOURS: MON - THUR: 11AM-8PM • FRI: 11AM-9PM • SAT: 9AM-9PM • SUN: 9AM-8PM HARRY’S RESTAURANT 508-366-8302 COOL OFF WITH ONE OF OUR FRESH HEALTHY SALADS 11 to select from! WWW.HARRYSRESTAURANT.COM WHO IS MATT JR. ? Matthew Pescatore Jr. 1500 West Park Drive Suite 100 Westborough, MA 01581 800-427-9781 www.LFSadvisors.com Legacy Financial Advisors, Inc. @LFAinc1 Securities and Advisory Services offered through SagePoint Financial, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC Registered Investment Advisors. Legacy Financial Advisors, Inc. is not affiliated with SagePoint Financial, Inc. Matthew Pescatore JR. is a recent graduate of Merrimack College in North Andover with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. Previously beginning as an intern with Legacy, he started his full-time position as a paraplanner for the firm in 2023. Matthew is currently working towards his life accident and health license and then will move on to get his securities licenses, which will enable him to advance his career and move into working with clients in the comprehensive financial planning field. He enjoys cheering on Boston sports teams, as well as playing in his local men’s hockey league, and hanging out with family and friends. MARY WENZEL Marlborough
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at a Glance
Mary Murphy, superintendent of Marlborough Public Schools (fourth from right), accepts donations of backpacks and school supplies that was made by members of the First Church in Marlborough, Congregational. The backpack program, spearheaded by her mom Liz, honors the memory of Katy Mahoney, who passed away as a young child.
Wenzel | 15
Marlborough’s Bobby Butler retires from professional hockey
Butler | from page 1
Hockey was always part of Butler’s life. At the retirement ceremony, Butler told longtime Telegram & Gazette sportswriter Bill Ballou that he “grew up in [his] driveway, shooting pucks, asking [his] parents… am I going to hockey?”
Butler was later named the 2018 Marlborough Labor Day Parade grand marshal.
After success at Marlborough High School, Butler headed to the University of New Hampshire. Butler played in 153 games (only missing one game throughout his college career), scoring 61 goals. In his senior year, he was selected as a firstteam All-American. Butler was also considered for the Hobey Baker Award, which is given to the top collegiate hockey player.
In his professional career, Butler played for four NHL clubs, the Ottawa Senators, the New Jersey Devils, the Nashville Predators and the Florida Panthers.
Butler, a 6-foot, 190-pound forward, scored 20 goals in the
NHL. Butler also spent time in the American Hockey League, playing with five different clubs and scoring 119 goals. Butler was a three-time AHL all-star. Butler also played in European leagues, and he played for Team USA at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea. Butler said that playing in the Olympics was one of the most memorable
WALSH
experiences of his hockey career and life.
“It’s definitely right there at the top of the list — being able to represent your country. It’s right up there with winning a state championship with my high school buddies…and skating for the first time on the ice in the NHL,” he said.
Eventually, Butler came back to Massachusetts and played 83
games over two seasons for the ECHL’s Worcester Railers.
“I just thought it was a great opportunity to get on the ice,” he said.
Butler retired at 36 years old, playing in 659 games and scoring 217 goals throughout his career.
In Worcester, Butler has made an impact on the youth hockey community, coaching many young players. After an-
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
Sept. 1 – Nancy Klein and Dan
Valianti
Sept. 3 – George Conway
Sept. 6 – Camille Vigeant and Greg Short
Sept. 7 – Ken Wheeler
Sept. 8 – Bev Broz
Sept. 9 – Jack Evangelous
Sept. 11 – Richard Collins and Maureen Cappadona
Sept. 12 – Ricky Christo
Sept. 13 – Olivia Goliger, Rob Seymour and Katie Spacek
Sept. 14 – John Usinas, Christine Seymour and Alissa
swering questions from Ballou and the audience, Butler signed autographs and skated with young fans.
“I’m excited for my kids to grow up here and all the kids that I’ve coached grow not only into great hockey players but great kids,” Butler said.
Butler also shares his hockey expertise with College of the Holy Cross athletes; he volunteers as a coach for the program.
Broz Watters
Sept. 15 – Shirley Ney and Sharon Levy
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY
Sept. 2 – Mary Lou and Dick Vanzini
Sept. 9 – Holly and Jack Evangelous and Ed and Joan Beauchemin
Sept. 10 – Katie Robey and Eric Baur
Send items for “Marlborough at a Glance” to Mary Wenzel at marysampler@verizon.net. Put GLANCE in the subject line.
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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, September 1, 2023 • 15 COMMUNITY NEWS
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Bobby Butler’s children joined him at the microphone during the retirement ceremony.
PHOTO/EVAN
Wenzel | from page 14
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Hudson author publishes second book, ‘The Dilly Dally Parrot’
By Sarah Freedman Contributing Writer
HUDSON – In Jake Marrazzo’s newest book, “The Dilly Dally Parrot,” a parrot takes the wheel of Captain Brain Beard’s ship and causes all sorts of chaos.
The titular parrot serves as a symbol of distraction to Johnny, a young boy who has a big project to do at school, but he would rather have fun.
Marrazzo, who is a 2021 graduate of Hudson High School, said, “It’s about Johnny, a kid in elementary school, and we go inside of his mind.”
The pirate controls Johnny’s actions, and when he gets assigned an important project, the pirate tries to steer, but the dilly dally parrot, which Marrazzo called “the physical representation of procrastination,” starts to take the wheel.
“He represents that part of all of us that just wants everything to be easy and fun,” Marrazzo said.
He explained that once Johnny gets a bad grade on the proj-
ect, the pirate and parrot learn to compromise and let Johhny work and have fun when each is needed. This was inspired by the pomodoro method, said Marrazzo, in which a timer is set for 20 minutes of work and is then followed by a short break.
He added, “It’s sort of my way of teaching kids that strategy.”
The book is inspired by Marrazzo’s own procrastination and struggle with time management.
He said, “I just thought that it would be a cool idea to be able to teach that sort of thing to kids.”
Meet the author
Marrazzo is a junior at Wheaton College in Norton, Mass., and a member of the class of 2025.
“I’ve been writing, honestly, probably as long as I can remember,” he said. “I’ve been coming up with ideas since I was really young, like three years old.”
Marrazzo has had a big imagination, and he has been coming
up with ideas for movies and books since he was very young, with writing as his first outlet to channel these ideas.
“Jake has been making up stories since he was three or four years old,” said his father John Marrazzo. “We started reading to him when he was about four
months old or so, and he developed a love for creating stories.”
Jake Marrazzo said he enjoys the “fact that I could tell a story of my own that’s not based in reality” with fantastical elements. He loves the idea that people can create their own stories for others to see.
He said, “I kind of see writing children’s books as a bit of a springboard.”
Second book
“The Dilly Dally Parrot” came out in June, and it is the second children’s book authored by
Marrazzo. He also wrote “One Wants to be a Letter” in 2020. His first book, for example, “One Wants to be a Letter” has roots to when Marrazzo was four years old. It was years later that a publisher, Civin Media Relations founded by Todd Civin, made the story come to life.
One way that the sales of his books help kids is a portion of the proceeds go to 4 Jake’s Sake Charitable Foundation, which helps people living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy by making their homes more accessible.
Marrazzo lives with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and it is a part of what he writes about. His first book was an allegory for living with the condition and “being different from everybody else.”
In his first book, the Number One wants to be like his letter friends. He wants to be like his friends because they can get together and form words. He learns throughout the story about what makes him special.
It’s an abridged version of how Marrazzo feels sometimes.
“Being in a chair, I feel so different from everybody else,” he said. “Wouldn’t it be so much better if I was like them?”
It stems from the idea of wanting to do things able-bodied people can do, and with the idea predating his diagnosis, it was a bit of foreshadowing for him. He said the message can resonate with anyone who feels different.
He added, “We compare ourselves to other people and want to be like them, but in the end we realize that we all have our own strengths that we can celebrate.”
Marrazzo tells the kids at book readings, “The world would be boring if all of us were the same.”
The idea also came from his love of Pixar movies and “the idea that things that we don’t normally expect to come to life, come to life,” he said.
Film dreams
Marrazzo, who is studying film and new media, said his goal is to break into film and writing books is a way to be recognized in that field.
He said, “I’m actually working on a script of my own right now. I’m really excited about it.”
It is for a potential streaming
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Author | 17
Author of the new children’s book, “The Dilly Dally Parrot,” Jake Marrazzo. He is a graduate of the Hudson High School 2021 class and a junior at Wheaton College.
PHOTO/JAKE MARRAZZO
PHOTO/SARAH FREEDMAN
gets a look at the Armory at French Hill project
By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor
MARLBOROUGH – The old Armory at 358 Lincoln St. — long empty and long considered a neighborhood eyesore — could be converted into 17 residential units if the city approves a special permit.
“I advocate for a transformative project,” said George Voyiatzis, the permit’s applicant, in a public hearing before the City Council on Aug. 21. “We can transform this space.”
According to Brian Falk, the attorney for the Armory at French Hill project, the site would include 14 twobedroom units, two twobedroom units and one threebedroom unit.
Voyiatzis and his wife would occupy the threebedroom unit.
The site would be 100% electric, said Falk, and it has received approval from the state’s Historical Commission.
Voyiatzis said the project would “breathe new life” into the neighborhood.
Author | from page 16 series, which ties into his ultimate goal of working in animation in some form. He plans on going to grad school to further his dreams of being in the film industry.
The inspiration for his books comes from his own life, and write what you know is “the philosophy I go by,” he said.
He added, “I just like to write stories that I want to see; messages that I want to hear that I haven’t been hearing in other children’s books.”
Marrazzo hopes that the lessons in the books stick with children, and he said they are the type of stories he wishes that he could have read as a kid. It is his hope that his books capture the imaginations of children like Dr. Seuss books did for him.
Marrazzo said he wants to write about things that “help kids find their place in the world.”
For more information about 4 Jake’s Sake, visit www.4jakessake.com. “The Dilly Dally Parrot” and “One Wants to be a Letter” are both available on Amazon and the 4 Jake’s Sake website.
Several residents who attended the public hearing supported the plans.
Robert Kays said he has known Voyiatzis for about 20 years, and “he’s an asset to the community.”
“I can’t say enough about his credibility,” he added.
Other residents said that
they were excited to see the project happen, noting that the Armory has been an eyesore for a while.
Council members agreed.
“This is an awesome proposal,” said Councilor David Doucette.
“[The exterior] is a beautiful job, in my view,” said
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Councilor Mark Oram. He asked about whether the interior could be salvaged. Voyiatzis said there was very little to save, since the Armory had been empty for nearly 30 years.
Voyiatzis mentioned that the Armory at French Hill is within sight of another de -
velopment on Lincoln Street –the Alta Marlborough project. Three buildings on the site were recently knocked down to make way for retail space, dwelling units and a parking garage.
The council will send the special permit application to the Urban Affairs Committee.
COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, September 1, 2023 • 17 COMMUNITY NEWS
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Shoe manufacturer gave Grafton an enduring gift
GRAFTON THEN NOW
By Kristen Remillard History Columnist
GRAFTON – If you are from New England, you may already be aware of the early successes here during the industrial revolution. They were possible because of those who were innovative enough to build and operate lucrative businesses and help develop communities in the area. During that time, there were many noteworthy characters to be remembered.
Business was booming in many small New England towns.
Grafton is notably known for its role in the shoe industry during the 1800s. Shoe manufacturing was run in homes with a lot of tedious work, done by hand. These “at home” businesses could not compete with the machinery used by places such as the Jasper S. Nelson Company in North Grafton.
Like many business owners, the Nelsons (Jasper, the father, then later Charles, the son)
MILK-AND-HONEY POOCHES
would provide housing and recreation for the employees working in their factories. The Nelsons’ property was about 18 acres of land on Route 140 in Grafton and bordering Shrewsbury. You likely drive by this amazing property hundreds of times, especially if you make a point to visit the Art Bradish Snack Bar when it’s open, just across the street.
The land, as you see it now, is a park where the residents of Grafton enjoy playing sports,
playing at the playground and/ or using the Nelson Park Library. Now, knowing that this beautiful piece of property was once owned by a wealthy shoe manufacturer, you may be wondering how the town acquired this land.
Charles Nelson was a wealthy shoe manufacturer who married his bookkeeper, Annie Nelson. The couple settled on the Nelson property in a beautiful mansion. The couple would soon realize that they would not
be able to have any children of their own.
Charles and Annie were caring and giving people who needed to share their love somehow. They were known within the community for being extremely giving with their large abundance of wealth. Stories have been told that they would give homes to employees who were faithful paying their rent over time.
After Charles died, Annie took over the estate. She
would eventually remarry after Charles’ death to a man named Ralph Wesson. Annie was suspicious that Mr. Wesson was after the property, but Mr. Wesson ended up putting thousands of dollars of his own money into the property’s upkeep.
In 1934, Annie passed away, resulting in the reading of her late husband Charles’ will by 1935. The will of Charles Nelson exposed a bombshell. The 18 acres of the Nelson property would become the property of the town of Grafton, in memory of his late father, Jasper Nelson.
The will indicated that this land be used for the children of Grafton to use, which remains to this day. This news must have come to Mr. Wesson’s horror, as he probably assumed he would inherit the massive estate, but such is life. One door closes for someone, a door will open for another.
How many of you have an almost 100-year-old gift that you can still enjoy to this very day? The town of Grafton was so fortunate to obtain this property from a generous family. The story of this bountiful gift should be told and retold and forever remembered.
SUPER CROSSWORD
Answers on page 20
18 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, September 1, 2023
COMMUNITY HISTORY
The Grafton mansion of wealthy shoe manufacturer Charles Nelson, who left the house and its acreage to the town.
PHOTO/COURTESY OF THE GRAFTON HISTORICAL SOCIETY
POLICE FIRE&
Worcester man charged with carrying a machete
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor
WESTBOROUGH – After being arrested in a suspected OUI, Westborough police allegedly found a machete and 15 rounds of ammunition in the suspect’s possession.
Westborough police were dispatched to Turnpike Road on Aug. 13 at 9:11 p.m. for the report of an erratic moped. According to the statement of facts filed in Westborough District Court, police located the moped and driver — Nam Nguyen, 49 — in the parking lot of the Hampton Inn Hotel.
While he talked with po -
lice, officers wrote that they smelled an alcoholic beverage coming from him and he had glassy, bloodshot eyes and slurred speech. Police said they conducted a standardized field sobriety test and believed he was operating under the influence of alcohol.
As they searched Nguyen, he told police that he had a weapon on his person. Police said he had a belt with a machete around his waist.
Officers also searched his belongings and reportedly found a white bag that was wrapped and taped containing 15 rounds of ammunition. Nguyen told police he found bullets on the
road.
Police wrote that Nguyen does not have a license to carry or firearms identification card (FID).
Nguyen was charged with felony OUI — third offense, felony carrying of a dangerous weapon, misdemeanor possession of ammunition without a FID card, a moped violation and unregistered motor vehicle.
Nguyen was arraigned in Westborough District Court on Aug. 14. His bail was set at $500. He will return to court on Oct. 20.
His attorney did not immediately respond to request for comment.
Marlborough
Thursday, Aug. 17
9:17 a.m. Court St. Vandalism.
11:06 a.m. Commerce Bank/Maple St. Larceny.
11:47 a.m. Royal Crest Apartments/Royal Crest Dr. Larceny.
11:53 a.m. Stone Gate Apartments/Silver Leaf Way. Fraud/forgery.
1:21 p.m. Blossom Ln. Vandalism.
3:26 p.m. Florence St. Harassment.
6:54 p.m. The Recovery Connection/Main St. Larceny.
Friday, Aug. 18
6:49 a.m. Newton/Main Sts. Trespassing.
12:14 p.m. McDonald Hotel/Main St. Larceny.
1:08 p.m. Talia Apartments/Ames St. Threats.
6:09 p.m. Berlin Rd. Vandalism.
7:48 p.m. Cornerstone Landscaping/BPRE. Fraud/forgery.
8:15 p.m. Apex Entertainment (Main Site)/Apex Dr. Trespassing.
Tuesday, Aug. 22
3:00 p.m. Arrested, Peter Smith, 67, of 19 Northboro Road East, Marlborough, for unlicensed operation of MV, true warrant.
5:30 p.m. Lakeside Ave. MVA with injuries.
7:36 p.m. Arrested, Thomas Benjamin, 56, of 72 S Main St., Apt. 202, Natick, courtesy booking.
8:07 p.m. Arrested, Aswad M. Khadijah, 44, of 655 Boston Post Rd E, Sudbury, on true warrant.
8:40 p.m. Funky Murphy’s/Main St. Trespassing.
10:44 p.m. Funky Murphy’s/Main St. Trespassing.
Wednesday, Aug. 23
7:34 a.m. The Heights at Marlborough Apts/ Briarwood Ln. B&E into MV.
11:26 a.m. Stevens Playground/Arnold Street Ext. Threats.
2:18 p.m. Springhill Ave. Auto theft.
2:33 p.m. Marlborough Hills Health Care/ Northboro Road East. Larceny.
4:50 p.m. Stone Gate Apartments/Saint Ives Way. Harassment.
9:10 p.m. Sunoco One Energy/Bolton St. Trespassing.
9:49 p.m. East Main/Main Sts. MVA with injuries.
10:42 p.m. Bolton St. Trespassing.
10:51 p.m. Apex Entertainment (Main Site)/ Apex Dr. Vandalism.
Shrewsbury
Thursday, Aug. 17
By Laura Hayes Managing Editor
MARLBOROUGH – A woman was arraigned in a fatal crash on Route 290 from 2018.
Monica Buck has been charged with misdemeanor motor vehicle homicide by negligent operation and a state highway traffic violation. She was arraigned in Marlborough District Court on Aug. 21.
State Police were called to a two-vehicle crash on eastbound Route 290 near mile marker 18.8 on Oct. 4, 2018 at 10:01 a.m.
According to the statement of facts filed in Marlborough District Court, a Dodge Caliber was driving in the left lane and slowed to a stop approaching the Route 290 and Route 495 interchange. As the Dodge slowed down, a Jeep Cherokee failed to
stop and crashed into the rear of the Dodge, troopers wrote.
Suspect arraigned in fatal 2018 crash Block Party to benefit police K9 program
“The crash resulted in major damage to both vehicles as well as injuries to all the vehicles operators and passengers,” State Police wrote.
One of the passengers of the Dodge was Michaela Cassidy, who was pronounced dead days after the crash due to her injuries.
According to the statement of facts, investigators wrote that Buck had taken Zoloft and Hydroxyzine that morning and slept through her alarm and was driving to work. State Police said that they learned that Buck had been using her phone “minutes before the crash.”
During her arraignment, Buck pled not guilty and was released on her own recognizance. Her attorney declined to comment
MARLBOROUGH – The Marlborough Police Patrol and Command Staff unions will host a Benefit Block Party for its K9 program on Saturday, Sept. 30, from 1 to 8 p.m. behind City Hall on Weed Street.
Three bands will perform –Larry Bee and the Buzz; Angry Tony and the Homewreckers; and Late Bus.
There will also be food, drinks, and a “meet and greet” with the department’s K9s.
Admission is a $10 donation at the door; $100 per table.
If anyone wants to donate or reserve a table ahead of time, please reach out to Pat Hogan or Dan Campbell at 508-4851212.
6:38 p.m. Arrested, Terri L. Nord, 66, of 95 Wayside Inn Rd., Framingham, for OUI-liquor or .08% 2nd offense, negligent operation of motor vehicle, marked lanes violation, possess open container of alcohol in MV.
8:18 p.m. Flagg Rd. Harassment.
Saturday, Aug. 19
12:32 p.m. Hannaford Super Market/BPRW.
Threats.
1:50 p.m. Arrested, Joshua Everhart, 36, of 296 Green St., Somersworth, N.H., on true warrant, failure to appear upon recognizance/felony.
2:14 p.m. Main/Newton Sts. Auto theft.
2:20 p.m. Arrested, Guilherme Almeida Araujo, 20, of 118 Washington St., Marlborough, for unlicensed operation of MV, operate MV with modified height, marked lanes violation, number plate violation.
6:04 p.m. Bolton St. Threats.
6:46 p.m. The Heights/Briarwood Ln. Larceny.
Sunday, Aug. 20
1:10 p.m. Panera Bread/BPRW. Fraud/forgery.
2:36 p.m. Green District Blvd. Larceny.
5:57 p.m. Ashley Ln. Harassment.
6:35 p.m. Orchard Apartments/Farmhouse
Ln. Harassment.
11:53 p.m. Arrested, Dimitrios Wade Fowler, 20, of 1079 Mt Elam Rd., Leominster, for disorderly conduct, resist arrest, A&B on police officer.
Monday, Aug. 21
12:18 p.m. Boudreau Ave. Missing person.
6:28 p.m. Price Chopper/East Main St. Larceny.
Look How Far You’ve Come
3:19 p.m. Arrested, Javier Jose Jimenez Soto, 31, of 889 Boston Tpke., Apt. 102, Shrewsbury, on warrant.
8:08 p.m. Bannister St. Harassment.
Friday, Aug. 18 1:04 p.m. Grafton St. Harassment. 1:32 p.m. Lakeside Dr. Larceny.
3:55 p.m. Hartford Tpke. Accident with injury.
Saturday, Aug. 19
1:53 p.m. Richard Ave. Harassment.
Sunday, Aug. 20
10:35 p.m. Main St. Identity theft.
Monday, Aug. 21
12:16 p.m. Commons Dr. Harassment.
1:48 p.m. North Quinsigamond. Illegal dumping. 4:23 p.m. Harriet Ave. Harassment.
p.m. South Quinsigamond Ave. Illegal dumping.
Tuesday, Aug. 22
3:16 a.m. Sias Ave. Dispute. 12:53 p.m. Hillside Dr. Larceny. 2:01 p.m. Richard Ave. Dispute. 5:13 p.m. Bow St. Illegal dumping. 11:48 p.m. Boston Tpke. Accident with injury.
Grafton
Monday, Aug. 7 4:20 p.m. Adams Rd./High Point Dr. Accident – personal injury.
7:27 p.m. Samuel Dr. Vandalism.
Tuesday, Aug. 8
6:33 p.m. Worcester St. Larceny/theft.
7:32 p.m. Upton St. Larceny/theft.
Friday, Aug. 11
6:03 p.m. Providence Rd. Harassment.
6:13 p.m. Mass Pike W. Accident – personal injury.
Saturday, Aug. 12
2:17 a.m. Browns Rd. Vandalism.
11:20 a.m. Main St./Leland Hill Rd. Accident – personal injury.
1:53 p.m. Main St. Larceny/theft.
Sunday, Aug. 13
10:36 p.m. Providence Rd. Harassment.
Monday, Aug. 14
2:30 a.m. Barbara Jean St. Harassment.
7:17 a.m. Old Westboro Rd. Larceny/theft.
3:20 p.m. Providence Rd. Harassment.
Friday, Aug. 18
10:39 a.m. Arrested, John Silveira, 59, of 41 Bridle Ridge Dr., Grafton, on warrant, fail/delay service of.
2:48 p.m. Pleasant/Elmwood Sts. Accident –personal injury.
7:23 p.m. Worcester St. Larceny/theft.
Saturday, Aug. 19
9:37 a.m. Mass Pike W. Accident – personal injury.
6:46 p.m. Upton St. Scam/attempted scam.
COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, September 1, 2023 • 19
The information in the police log is obtained directly from the official records maintained at each police station in our circulation area. Those arrested are innocent until proven guilty. The Community Advocate will publish news of acquittals upon notification and a copy of court issued documentation. POLICE LOG Scan QR code to read this week’s police and fire news on our website. graphi cs by t i n a t. Sponsored by Chief Joseph Robert J. Terkanian, P.O. Box 808 • Northborough, MA 01532
~ Closer to God Each Day
Every time God gives us a test, we can tell how far we’ve come and how far we still have to go by how we react in that test. Attitudes of the heart that we didn’t even know we had can come out when we have tests and trials. This is a good thing because we can never get to where we need to be if we don’t recognize where we are.
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Requirements: MS in Chemical, Biochemical, or Biopharmaceutical engineering. Will accept BS Chemical, Biochemical, or Biopharmaceutical engineering plus 5 years of experience as a Process Engineer or related. Willing to accept foreign education equivalent. Annual Salary: $122,762. Work
Location: Marlborough, MA with ability to work from home but must be within commuting distance to office. Travel required throughout U.S. up to 30%, as required to execute project. Qualified applicants directly mail resumes to Jessica Weynand, HR Service Partner, Sartorius Stedim North America, 565 Johnson Ave., Bohemia, NY 11716 with job ref code PE23. No calls please.
20 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, September 1, 2023 Interested in placing a FOR SALE • SERVICE • YARD SALE • RENTAL • PRAYER • CAREER MARKETPLACE ad? Contact Cindy at 508-366-5500 or send an email to cindy@communityadvocate.com. We’ll design your ad for you! CLASSIFIED DEADLINE IS FRIDAY AT NOON, ONE WEEK PRIOR TO PUBLICATION DATE COMMUNITY CLASSIFIED HOME REPAIR & SERVICES Clean-out attics, basements, garages, sheds, etc. Demolition services. We also have dumpsters. Senior Discount. Fully insured. Best prices. Member of BBB. Master and Visa card. Call anytime 978-897JUNK, cell 978-460-1192 www.quickremovalservice. com. ChiefQRS@Aol.com QUICK REMOVAL SERVICE You call John it will be gone! J&K ROOFING Perfecting the art of keeping your home dry! 508-393-1868 Lic # 134804 NEW ROOFS RE-ROOFS GUTTER CLEANING ICE DAM REMOVAL Caring Hands • Companionship • Transportation • Errands • Pet Visits • Home Waiting Services • Residential Checks • Home/Office Organization • And much more! Call Jim Noble 508-889-6444 All Types of Home Repair & Remodeling Odd Jobs, Maintenance & Much More! Proudly serving you since 1996 (508) 366-3690 www.mrhandyman.com MA HIC #146014 / MA CS #107504 Licensed Bonded Insured Home Improvement Professionals Joseph Lucier Owner/Painter 508-873-5930 Josephlucier57yahoo.com 25 Years of Experience Interior/Exterior • Free Estimates LAWN BOYZ LANDSCAPING 508-410-2756 You Name It We Do It! lawnbz@gmail.com Fall Clean up / Mulching • Lawn Renovations Walkways/Patios / Walls • Trimming • Designing & Sprinkler install • Bobcat services MEDIA DOG WALKING Dependable & Affordable Westborough Only Call Jen 508-414-2691 AUTO 24 Hours Everyday Call Dial-A-Friend (508) 852-5242 Need A Message Of Hope? Leave the cleaning to us! • Full Service • Commercial& Residential Call 508-658-9040 for a FAST FREE estimate Every home is special Looking for Dependable Morning & Afternoon Kennel Help in Northborough For information please call Natural Care Kennels 508-393-6040 or email to info@naturalcarekennels.com Celebrating 39 Years in Business RENTALS & SALES CLASS A, B+ AND C MOTORHOMES, TRAILERS, PROPANE 150 Shrewsbury St. Boylston 508-869-2905 www.fullerrv.com Fuller rV Family Owned & Operated TRY BEFOREYOU BUY! TRY BEFORE YOU BUY! Amana Gas Dryer Hotpoint Refrigerator Both Working Need to be picked up. Call 508-870-0232 FREE! RESIDENTIAL CLEANING Call Sue! (508)756-9842 FREE ESTIMATES GREAT REFERENCES To place your ad call Cindy at 508-366-5500 or email cindy@communityadvocate.com SMALL ENGINE Tune-ups & Repairs Call Bob 774-303-1155
MARKETPLACE
W.E.S. PLASTERING Small Repairs Ceilings • Re-Skimming Bill Speckman 508-366-3785
CAREER
ANSWERS
Senior Manager, Product Marketing Akoya Biosciences, Inc. Marlborough, MA* Lead a team responsible for creating campaign strategy, demand generation programs, and sales tools for on-market products and NPIs. *Telecommuting permitted from anywhere in the U.S. Send resumes to: humanresources @akoyabio.com LOWEST PRICING IN 25 YEARS! CALL 508.366.5500 FOR INFORMATION Target More Local Consumers with CA COMMUNITY ADVOCATE
LEGAL NOTICES
HUDSON
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Petition #2023-09
Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals on Thursday, September 14, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. Pursuant to Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023 extending the remote meeting provisions of March 12, 2020, Executive Order suspending certain provisions of the Open Meeting Law, this meeting of the Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals will be conducted via remote participation. Specific information for remote participation will be included on the agenda. At this time the Zoning Board of Appeals will hear the request of Native Sun Wellness, Inc. to be granted a Special Permit to operate a medical marijuana establishment pursuant to Section 5.11.5 paragraph 10 of the Town of Hudson’s Zoning by-laws between the hours of 8:00 AM and 10:00 PM. The subject property is located at 37 Coolidge Street in the Limited Commercial Industrial Zoning District, Assessors’ Map 17 Parcels 40 and 56. The Board may consider any action deemed necessary relative to the subject petition.
All petition materials are available for review in the Town Clerk’s Office during regular business hours, on the Town of Hudson website at http://go.boarddocs.com/ma/hudsonma/ Board.nsf/goto?open&id=CUQH2U466D48 and can be requested by calling (978) 5622989 or by sending an email to kjohnson@ townofhudson.org.
Matthew Russell, Clerk Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals
SHREWSBURY
PUBLIC HEARING
Notice is hereby given that Salim F. Aoude, Inc., d/b/a Sam’s Mobil Service Center, 285 Boston Turnpike, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 has applied to the Select Board to amend an Underground Storage Tank License from the current amount of 32,000 gallons of gasoline, to the storage of 22,000 gallons of gasoline and 10,000 gallons of diesel at the location of 285 Boston Turnpike.
A public hearing on this application will be held on Tuesday, September 12, 2023 at 7:10 PM, Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, Selectmen’s Meeting Room, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury 01545.
Beth N. Casavant, Chair
PUBLIC HEARING
Notice is hereby given that Keith Luxeus on behalf of Le Miracle, Inc., d/b/a Meineke Car Care Center, 507 Boston Turnpike, has applied to the Select Board for a commercial garage license. The proposed hours of operation are 7:30am to 6:00pm Monday through Saturday.
A public hearing on this application will be held on Tuesday, September 12, 2023 at 7:15 PM, Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, Selectmen’s Meeting Room, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury 01545.
Beth N. Casavant, Chair
SOUTHBOROUGH AUCTION NOTICE
Notice is hereby given by Ted’s of Fayville, 300 Turnpike Road., Southborough, MA
01772, pursuant to the provisions of G.L. c. 255, section 39A, that on Wednesday September 20, 2023 at 10 am an auction sale on the web based site of http://sta.ibidsmart. com the following motor vehicles will be sold to satisfy our garage keeper’s lien thereon for storage, towing charges, care and expenses of notices and sale of said vehicles. Starting September 10, 2023 at 9 am, vehicles can be viewed at http://sta.ibidsmart.com.
This is not an absolute auction we reserve the right to set a minimum on all auction vehicles. If a particular vehicle is not listed on http://sta. ibidsmart.com call 508-485-0503 for bidding instructions.
2001 BMW Z3
VIN: WBACN334X1LK49269
Owned by Driven Ventures LLC
2003 Volkswagen Jetta
VIN:3VWPE69M93M181591
Owned by Roberto C Retana
2002 Honda Accord
VIN:1HGCG66862A090083
Owned by Joshua Robinson
2005 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
VIN: 1GCEK14X45Z217289
Owned by Vinicius Rodrigues Pejara
1987 Toyota Camry
Vin: 4T1BG22K2VU007896
Owned by Sergio L Viera
2013 Hyundai Sonata
VIN: 5NPEC4AB6DH600759
Owned by Corey Polhman
2007 Audi Q7
VIN: WA1BY74L87D101573
Owned by Al Malik S Ford
1996 Sport Sports Master Camper
VIN: 1KS251T23TD925730
Owned by Richard S Sheppard
2006 Chevrolet Trailblazer
VIN: 1GNDT13S662250875
Owned by Philipe Faria
2008 Subaru Impreza
VIN: JF1GE61688H516762
Owned by Chloe J Kalukiewicz
2010 Ford Escape
VIN: 1FMCU9D70AKA88420
Owned by Hilda Depaiva
2013 Volkswagen Tiguan
VIN: WVGBV3AX3DW609086
Owned by Saquala A Spence
1994 Wabash Box Trailer
VIN: 1JJV532W83L845795
Owned by: Superior Pallets
2008 Subaru Impreza
VIN: JF1GH63608H821578
Owned by Josiane Coelho
da Conceicao Dos Santos 2013 Hino 268
VIN: 5PVNJ8JT5D4S54859
Owned by: W and D Transportation LLC
This notice has been given under the provisions of G.L. c. 255, Section 39A.
Publication Friday September 1,8 and 15, 2023 Community Advocate.
WESTBOROUGH
LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REQUEST FOR DETERMINATION OF APPLICABILITY
In accordance with the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, MGL Chapter 131, Section 40, and the Westborough Wetlands Protection Bylaw, the Conservation Commission will conduct a Public Hearing held on September 12, 2023 after 6:30 PM at the Forbes Municipal Building, 3rd Fl meeting room, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA, for a Request for Determination of Applicability for 4 Warburton Ln. (Map 39; Parcel 1A) submitted by Edward & Resa Sherr for proposed 400sf driveway addition within jurisdictional resource areas.
LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REQUEST FOR DETERMINATION OF APPLICABILITY
In accordance with the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, MGL Chapter 131, Section 40, and the Westborough Wetlands Protection Bylaw, the Conservation Commission will conduct a Public Hearing held on September 12, 2023 after 6:30 PM at the Forbes Municipal Building, 3rd Fl meeting room, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA, for a Request for Determination of Applicability for 7 Gale Meadow Way (Map 35; Parcel 215) submitted by Harmesh Sharma for proposed 21’x10’ attached shed within jurisdictional resource areas.
LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REQUEST FOR DETERMINATION OF APPLICABILITY
In accordance with the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, MGL Chapter 131, Section 40, and the Westborough Wetlands Protection Bylaw, the Conservation Commission will conduct a Public Hearing held on September 12, 2023 after 6:30 PM at the Forbes Municipal Building, 3rd Fl meeting room, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA, for a Request for Determination of Applicability for 8 Ruggles Pond Rd. (Map 16; Parcel 119) submitted by Ellen & Robert Milne for proposed 339sf house addition with bulkhead within jurisdictional resource areas.
LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REQUEST FOR DETERMINATION OF APPLICABILITY
In accordance with the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, MGL Chapter 131, Section 40, and the Westborough Wetlands Protection Bylaw, the Conservation Commission will conduct a Public Hearing held on September 12, 2023 after 6:30 PM at the Forbes Municipal Building, 3rd Fl meeting room, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA, for a Request for Determination of Applicability for 22 Upton Road (Map 16; Parcel 33) submitted by W Greg Burrill for proposed raze and rebuild of the single-family house with attached garage and associated grading within jurisdictional resource areas.
MARLBOROUGH
LEGAL NOTICE
Public Hearing – Proposed Zoning Amendment to Chapter 650, to add a new Section 39A to create the Sasseville Way Residential Overlay District (SWROD).
Notice is hereby given that the City Council of the City of Marlborough will hold a PUBLIC HEARING on Monday, September 11, 2023, at 8:00 PM in the City Council Chamber, 2nd floor, City Hall, 140 Main Street, Marlborough, Massachusetts to amend Chapter 650, to add a new Section 39A to add the Sasseville Way Residential Overlay District (SWROD).
THAT, PURSUANT TO § 5 OF CHAPTER 40A OF THE GENERAL LAWS, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MARLBOROUGH, HAVING RECEIVED FOR ITS CONSIDERATION CHANGES IN THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF MARLBOROUGH, AS AMENDED, TO FURTHER AMEND CHAPTER 650, NOW ORDAINS THAT THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF MARLBOROUGH, AS AMENDED, BE FURTHER AMENDED BY AMENDING AND ADDING
THERETO AS FOLLOWS:
1. Article VI, entitled “Special Districts, Overlays and Special Requirements” is hereby amended to add a new Section 650-39A, or such other numbering as deemed appropriate and adopted by the City of Marlborough, entitled “Sasseville Way Residential Overlay District” which shall read as follows:
A. Purpose and objectives.
(1) The purpose of the Sasseville Way Residential Overlay District (herein, also SWR Overlay District) shall be to encourage and enhance land development and desired growth patterns for the advancement of the public health, safety and welfare by providing for the development of mixed use multi-family housing developments on sites which are otherwise zoned for other purposes but which, because of the size of the parcel being developed and its proximity to other residential neighborhoods and/ or residential amenities, will provide an appropriate environment for a mixed use multi-family housing development consistent with the stated economic development objectives of the City.
(2) For purposes of this zoning district, a mixed-use development shall include a mix of multi-family residential uses and any eligible use set forth in Subsection D, which may be commingled into a single structure or multiple structures with other eligible uses on the same property. Accordingly, mixed-use developments shall benefit the public health, safety and welfare, through the sharing of parking lots and driveway curb cuts, to minimize the amount of impervious paved parking area and driveway curb cuts, reduce automobile trips and traffic congestion, improve walkability within the property, and thereby improve air quality.
(3) For purposes of this section, the SWR Overlay District shall be superimposed on the other districts existing at the time that any land in said underlying district is also included in the SWR Overlay District. The SWR Overlay District is located adjacent to Sasseville Way as indicated on the City Zoning Map.
B. Authority of permit granting authority.
(1) The City Council shall be the permit granting authority for special permit and site plan approval in the SWR Overlay District. In all instances, a development which proceeds under the SWR Overlay District is subject to site plan approval in accordance with § 270-2 of the Marlborough City Code, with the exception that the City Council shall be the permit granting authority for special permit and site plan approval in the SWR Overlay District and the voting threshold shall be a simple majority.
(2) The City Council may elect to waive or modify any of the dimensional and parking requirements set forth in this section during Site Plan Review if, it makes a finding that to do so will enhance the overall design of the SWR Overlay District. This authority continues subsequent to occupancy of any structure within the SWR Overlay District.
C. Exclusivity/control. This section (§ 65039A) of the Zoning Ordinance exclusively controls any mixed-use development in the SWR Overlay District and supersedes any other provision of the Zoning Ordinance with respect to all matters described in this section. In the event of any conflict between the provisions of this section (§ 650-39A et seq.) and any other provision of the Zoning Ordinance, the provisions of this section shall govern and control.
D. Eligible uses. Except as specifically set forth to the contrary below, all uses permitted in the Residential A-2 and Limited Industrial Districts, either as of right or by special permit in accordance with § 650-17 of the Zoning
Ordinance, are permitted to the same extent in the SWR Overlay District.
(1) The following uses are permitted by right in the SWR Overlay District:
(a) Multifamily dwelling, up to 300 dwelling units.
(b) Car parking lots, garages accessory to any principal uses at the property: a structure or a group of structures that facilitate the parking of vehicles at ground level, above or below grade and shall include area for the parking of vehicles at, above and/or below grade under a building or otherwise integrated into another structure.
(c) Consumer service establishments complementary to the other principal uses at the property, provided that said facilities are less than 10,000 square feet of floor area.
(d) Restaurant, restaurants serving food outdoors, cafe with or without table service (including outside seating and service), brew pub provided that said facilities are less than 10,000 square feet of floor area.
(e) Health, sports and fitness clubs (indoor and/or outdoor) and related facilities accessory to a multifamily dwelling use, provided that said facilities if enclosed in a building(s) are less than 10,000 square feet of floor area. For the avoidance of doubt, any outdoor areas shall not be subject to said floor area restriction.
(2) The following uses are permitted by special permit in the SWR Overlay District:
(a) Consumer service establishments complementary to the other principal uses at the property and said facilities are 10,000 square feet of floor area or greater.
(b) Restaurant, restaurants serving food outdoors, cafe with or without table service (including outside seating and service), brew pub and said facilities if enclosed in a building(s) are 10,000 square feet of floor area or greater.
(c) Health, sports and fitness clubs (indoor and/or outdoor) and related facilities accessory to a multifamily dwelling use and said facilities if enclosed in a building(s) are 10,000 square feet of floor area or greater. For the avoidance of doubt, any outdoor areas shall not be subject to said floor area restriction.
(d) Accessory solar energy installations, including but not limited to rooftop systems and solar parking canopies, and accessory telecommunications facilities and wireless communications facilities.
E. Affordable Housing. All site plan review approvals granted to applicants to construct multi-family dwellings shall be subject to the provisions of § 650-26 of the Zoning Ordinance; provided, however, the percentage of dwelling units to be constructed for homeownership or rental purposes to be made available at affordable prices to home buyers or renters shall be 10% with respect to developments of 20 or more units.
F. Dimensional requirements. The SWR Overlay District shall be subject to the dimensional standards in accordance with Article VII of the Zoning Ordinance with the following exceptions:
(1) The SWR Overlay District shall consist of one or more lots. The minimum acreage requirement for contiguous parcels/lots to be developed as a SWR Overlay District is twenty (20) acres.
(2) Minimum lot frontage measurement shall be no less than 200 feet for any lot wholly located within the boundaries of the SWR Overlay District.
(3) Minimum side yard measurement shall be no less than 50 feet and minimum front yard measurement shall be no less than 50 feet for any lot wholly located within boundaries of a SWR Overlay District.
(4) Maximum building height in SWR Over-
COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, September 1, 2023 • 21
Call 508.366.5500 to advertise your legal notice
LEGAL NOTICES
lay District shall not exceed 70 feet, provided that:
(a) For the purposes of measuring height in SWR Overlay District, the “front” of each building shall be measured on the side facing Sasseville Way;
(b) No non-residential structure or building shall be more than 2 stories or 45 feet in height: and
(c) For the avoidance of doubt, roof structures that are not occupiable shall not be included in the overall height measurement.
(5) Maximum combined lot coverage, including any permitted accessory structures, shall not exceed 50% of the tract or contiguous parcels.
(6) The total number of dwelling units within the SWR Overlay District shall be limited to 15 units per acre of gross land area.
(7) The SWR Overlay District may contain studio, one (1), two (2) and three (3) bedroom units.
G. Parking and curb cut requirements. Except as otherwise provided in this section, parking and circulation requirements shall conform to the provisions of §§ 650-48 and 650- 49 of the Zoning Ordinance.
(1) General. In the SWR Overlay District, adequate off-street parking shall be provided. The City Council and the applicant shall have as a goal, for the purposes of defining adequate off-street parking, making the most efficient use of the parking facilities to be provided and minimizing the area of land to be paved for this purpose. In implementing this goal, the City Council shall consider complementary or shared use of parking areas by activities having different peak demand times, and the applicant shall locate adjacent uses in such a manner as will facilitate the complementary use of such parking areas. Implementation of such complementary use of parking areas may result in permitted reductions in the parking requirements.
(2) Parking locations. Parking may be provided at ground level, underground or in a parking garage. Parking garages can be freestanding or as part of buildings dedicated to other permitted uses.
(3) Parking spaces for each dwelling unit. There shall be a minimum parking ratio of 1.5 parking spaces for each dwelling unit.
(4) Granting of relief from parking regulations. The City Council may waive any of the foregoing requirements or the requirements of § 650-48 during Site Plan Review if it makes a finding that to do so will enhance the overall design of the SWR Overlay District.
H. Landscaping and screening requirements.
The SWR Overlay District shall be subject to the landscaping and screening standards in accordance with Article VII of the Zoning Ordinance with the following exceptions:
(1) In the SWR Overlay District, there shall be provided with each multifamily building a landscaped area equal to the greatest single floor area of the building, provided that such landscaped area may include undisturbed natural areas such as vegetated areas, woodlands, wetlands and floodpain areas.
(2) The City Council may waive any of the requirements of § 650-47 during Site Plan Review during Site Plan Review if it makes a finding that to do so will enhance the overall design of the SWR Overlay District.
I. Signage.
(1) Except as otherwise provided in this section, signage shall conform to the provisions of Chapter 526 of the Marlborough City Code, the Sign Ordinance.
(2) The City Council may waive any of the requirements of the Sign Ordinance during Site Plan Review if it makes a finding that to do so will enhance the overall
design of the SWR Overlay District.
J. Application.
(1) An application for a special permit for a use in the SWR Overlay District shall comply with the requirements of § 65057 et seq. of the Zoning Ordinance. In the matter of a site plan approval, the application shall comply with the requirements of the City Code, Chapter 270, Article II, Permits and Approvals, § 270-2 et seq.
(2) The City Council in connection with a special permit and/or site plan application shall review such applications with respect to the following design criteria:
(a) Compliance of sidewalks with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) design standards;
(b) Street facade and exterior walls visible from public ways;
(c) Public space;
(d) Scale of buildings; and
(e) External lighting.
(3) Concurrent with any public hearing/ meeting associated with a special permit and/or site plan filing, the applicant shall make a presentation to the City Council to present the proposed architectural design and shall consider the comments and input from the City Council. A final building elevation shall be submitted prior to the close of the public hearing/ meeting.
K. Amendments. After approval, an owner/ developer may seek amendments to the approved permits. Minor amendments to a special permit and major or minor amendments to a site plan approval may be made by a majority vote of the City Council. It shall be a finding of the City Council, not subject to dispute by the applicant, whether a requested amendment is deemed to be a major amendment or a minor one. In general, a minor modification shall not produce more than a material increase in the scale of a project nor produce more than a material increase in impact on City services, the environment or the neighborhood. If it is determined that revisions to a special permit are not minor, per § 650- 59 of the Zoning Ordinance, an application for a revised special permit shall be filed, and a public hearing shall be held in the same manner as required for a new application, subject to the fee schedule under Subsection C(3)(f) of § 650-59.
2. The Zoning Map described in § 650-8 is amended as shown on the accompanying Map (Exhibit “A”). The newly established “Sasseville Way Residential Overlay District” shall include all or portions of the properties shown on the Map existing at the passage of this Ordinance, which properties include the following parcel of land (herein identified by the Assessors’ Map and Parcel Number): 2923.
Per Order of the City Council #23-1008941
This Legal Advertisement will be published on www.communityadvocate.com and http:// masspublicnotices.org.
PLANNING BOARD LEGAL NOTICE
Public Hearing –Proposed Zoning Amendment to Chapter 650, to add a new Section 39A to create the Sasseville Way Residential Overlay District (SWROD).
Notice is hereby given that the Planning Board of the City of Marlborough will hold a PUBLIC HEARING on Monday, September 18, 2023, at 7:00 PM in Memorial Hall, 3rd floor, City Hall, 140 Main Street, Marlborough, Massachusetts to amend Chapter 650, to add a new Section 39A to add the Sasseville Way Residential Overlay District (SWROD).
THAT, PURSUANT TO § 5 OF CHAPTER 40A OF THE GENERAL LAWS, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MARLBOROUGH, HAVING RECEIVED FOR ITS CONSIDERATION CHANGES IN THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY
OF MARLBOROUGH, AS AMENDED, TO FURTHER AMEND CHAPTER 650, NOW ORDAINS THAT THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF MARLBOROUGH, AS AMENDED, BE FURTHER AMENDED BY AMENDING AND ADDING THERETO AS FOLLOWS:
1. Article VI, entitled “Special Districts, Overlays and Special Requirements” is hereby amended to add a new Section 650-39A, or such other numbering as deemed appropriate and adopted by the City of Marlborough, entitled “Sasseville Way Residential Overlay District” which shall read as follows:
A. Purpose and objectives.
(1) The purpose of the Sasseville Way Residential Overlay District (herein, also SWR Overlay District) shall be to encourage and enhance land development and desired growth patterns for the advancement of the public health, safety and welfare by providing for the development of mixed use multi-family housing developments on sites which are otherwise zoned for other purposes but which, because of the size of the parcel being developed and its proximity to other residential neighborhoods and/or residential amenities, will provide an appropriate environment for a mixed use multifamily housing development consistent with the stated economic development objectives of the City.
(2) For purposes of this zoning district, a mixed-use development shall include a mix of multi-family residential uses and any eligible use set forth in Subsection D, which may be commingled into a single structure or multiple structures with other eligible uses on the same property. Accordingly, mixed-use developments shall benefit the public health, safety and welfare, through the sharing of parking lots and driveway curb cuts, to minimize the amount of impervious paved parking area and driveway curb cuts, reduce automobile trips and traffic congestion, improve walkability within the property, and thereby improve air quality.
(3) For purposes of this section, the SWR Overlay District shall be superimposed on the other districts existing at the time that any land in said underlying district is also included in the SWR Overlay District. The SWR Overlay District is located adjacent to Sasseville Way as indicated on the City Zoning Map.
B. Authority of permit granting authority.
(1) The City Council shall be the permit granting authority for special permit and site plan approval in the SWR Overlay District. In all instances, a development which proceeds under the SWR Overlay District is subject to site plan approval in accordance with § 270-2 of the Marlborough City Code, with the exception that the City Council shall be the permit granting authority for special permit and site plan approval in the SWR Overlay District and the voting threshold shall be a simple majority.
(2) The City Council may elect to waive or modify any of the dimensional and parking requirements set forth in this section during Site Plan Review if, it makes a finding that to do so will enhance the overall design of the SWR Overlay District. This authority continues subsequent to occupancy of any structure within the SWR Overlay District.
C. Exclusivity/control. This section (§ 65039A) of the Zoning Ordinance exclusively controls any mixed-use development in the SWR Overlay District and supersedes any other provision of the Zoning Ordinance with respect to all matters described in this section. In the event of any conflict between the provisions of this section (§ 650-39A et seq.) and any other provision of the Zoning Ordinance, the provisions of this section shall govern
and control.
D. Eligible uses. Except as specifically set forth to the contrary below, all uses permitted in the Residential A-2 and Limited Industrial Districts, either as of right or by special permit in accordance with § 650-17 of the Zoning Ordinance, are permitted to the same extent in the SWR Overlay District.
(1) The following uses are permitted by right in the SWR Overlay District:
(a) Multifamily dwelling, up to 300 dwelling units.
(b) Car parking lots, garages accessory to any principal uses at the property: a structure or a group of structures that facilitate the parking of vehicles at ground level, above or below grade and shall include area for the parking of vehicles at, above and/or below grade under a building or otherwise integrated into another structure.
(c) Consumer service establishments complementary to the other principal uses at the property, provided that said facilities are less than 10,000 square feet of floor area.
(d) Restaurant, restaurants serving food outdoors, cafe with or without table service (including outside seating and service), brew pub provided that said facilities are less than 10,000 square feet of floor area.
(e) Health, sports and fitness clubs (indoor and/or outdoor) and related facilities accessory to a multifamily dwelling use, provided that said facilities if enclosed in a building(s) are less than 10,000 square feet of floor area. For the avoidance of doubt, any outdoor areas shall not be subject to said floor area restriction.
(2) The following uses are permitted by special permit in the SWR Overlay District:
(a) Consumer service establishments complementary to the other principal uses at the property and said facilities are 10,000 square feet of floor area or greater.
(b) Restaurant, restaurants serving food outdoors, cafe with or without table service (including outside seating and service), brew pub and said facilities if enclosed in a building(s) are 10,000 square feet of floor area or greater.
(c) Health, sports and fitness clubs (indoor and/or outdoor) and related facilities accessory to a multifamily dwelling use and said facilities if enclosed in a building(s) are 10,000 square feet of floor area or greater. For the avoidance of doubt, any outdoor areas shall not be subject to said floor area restriction.
(d) Accessory solar energy installations, including but not limited to rooftop systems and solar parking canopies, and accessory telecommunications facilities and wireless communications facilities.
E. Affordable Housing. All site plan review approvals granted to applicants to construct multi-family dwellings shall be subject to the provisions of § 650-26 of the Zoning Ordinance; provided, however, the percentage of dwelling units to be constructed for homeownership or rental purposes to be made available at affordable prices to home buyers or renters shall be 10% with respect to developments of 20 or more units.
F. Dimensional requirements. The SWR Overlay District shall be subject to the dimensional standards in accordance with Article VII of the Zoning Ordinance with the following exceptions:
(1) The SWR Overlay District shall consist of one or more lots. The minimum acreage requirement for contiguous parcels/lots to be developed as a SWR Overlay District is twenty (20) acres.
(2) Minimum lot frontage measurement shall be no less than 200 feet for any lot wholly located within the boundaries of
the SWR Overlay District.
(3) Minimum side yard measurement shall be no less than 50 feet and minimum front yard measurement shall be no less than 50 feet for any lot wholly located within boundaries of a SWR Overlay District.
(4) Maximum building height in SWR Overlay District shall not exceed 70 feet, provided that:
(a) For the purposes of measuring height in SWR Overlay District, the “front” of each building shall be measured on the side facing Sasseville Way;
(b) No non-residential structure or building shall be more than 2 stories or 45 feet in height: and
(c) For the avoidance of doubt, roof structures that are not occupiable shall not be included in the overall height measurement.
(5) Maximum combined lot coverage, including any permitted accessory structures, shall not exceed 50% of the tract or contiguous parcels.
(6) The total number of dwelling units within the SWR Overlay District shall be limited to 15 units per acre of gross land area.
(7) The SWR Overlay District may contain studio, one (1), two (2) and three (3) bedroom units.
G. Parking and curb cut requirements. Except as otherwise provided in this section, parking and circulation requirements shall conform to the provisions of §§ 650-48 and 650- 49 of the Zoning Ordinance.
(1) General. In the SWR Overlay District, adequate off-street parking shall be provided. The City Council and the applicant shall have as a goal, for the purposes of defining adequate off-street parking, making the most efficient use of the parking facilities to be provided and minimizing the area of land to be paved for this purpose. In implementing this goal, the City Council shall consider complementary or shared use of parking areas by activities having different peak demand times, and the applicant shall locate adjacent uses in such a manner as will facilitate the complementary use of such parking areas. Implementation of such complementary use of parking areas may result in permitted reductions in the parking requirements.
(2) Parking locations. Parking may be provided at ground level, underground or in a parking garage. Parking garages can be freestanding or as part of buildings dedicated to other permitted uses.
(3) Parking spaces for each dwelling unit. There shall be a minimum parking ratio of 1.5 parking spaces for each dwelling unit.
(4) Granting of relief from parking regulations. The City Council may waive any of the foregoing requirements or the requirements of § 650-48 during Site Plan Review if it makes a finding that to do so will enhance the overall design of the SWR Overlay District.
H. Landscaping and screening requirements. The SWR Overlay District shall be subject to the landscaping and screening standards in accordance with Article VII of the Zoning Ordinance with the following exceptions:
(1) In the SWR Overlay District, there shall be provided with each multifamily building a landscaped area equal to the greatest single floor area of the building, provided that such landscaped area may include undisturbed natural areas such as vegetated areas, woodlands, wetlands and floodpain areas.
(2) The City Council may waive any of the requirements of § 650-47 during Site Plan Review during Site Plan Review if it makes a finding that to do so will enhance the overall design of the SWR
22 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, September 1, 2023
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LEGAL NOTICES
Overlay District.
I. Signage.
(1) Except as otherwise provided in this section, signage shall conform to the provisions of Chapter 526 of the Marlborough City Code, the Sign Ordinance.
(2) The City Council may waive any of the requirements of the Sign Ordinance during Site Plan Review if it makes a finding that to do so will enhance the overall design of the SWR Overlay District.
J. Application.
(1) An application for a special permit for a use in the SWR Overlay District shall comply with the requirements of § 65057 et seq. of the Zoning Ordinance. In the matter of a site plan approval, the application shall comply with the requirements of the City Code, Chapter 270, Article II, Permits and Approvals, § 270-2 et seq.
(2) The City Council in connection with a special permit and/or site plan application shall review such applications with respect to the following design criteria:
(a) Compliance of sidewalks with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) design standards;
(b) Street facade and exterior walls visible from public ways;
(c) Public space;
(d) Scale of buildings; and
(e) External lighting.
(3) Concurrent with any public hearing/ meeting associated with a special permit and/or site plan filing, the applicant shall make a presentation to the City Council to present the proposed architectural design and shall consider the comments and input from the City Council. A final building elevation shall be submitted prior to the close of the public hearing/ meeting.
K. Amendments. After approval, an owner/ developer may seek amendments to the approved permits. Minor amendments to a special permit and major or minor amendments to a site plan approval may be made by a majority vote of the City Council. It shall be a finding of the City Council, not subject to dispute by the applicant, whether a requested amendment is deemed to be a major amendment or a minor one. In general, a minor modification shall not produce more than a material increase in the scale of a project nor produce more than a material increase in impact on City services, the environment or the neighborhood. If it is determined that revisions to a special permit are not minor, per § 650- 59 of the Zoning Ordinance, an application for a revised special permit shall be filed, and a public hearing shall be held in the same manner as required for a new application, subject to the fee schedule under Subsection C(3)(f) of § 650-59.
2. The Zoning Map described in § 650-8 is amended as shown on the accompanying Map (Exhibit “A”). The newly established “Sasseville Way Residential Overlay District” shall include all or portions of the properties shown on the Map existing at the passage of this Ordinance, which properties include the following parcel of land (herein identified by the Assessors’ Map and Parcel Number): 2923.
Per Order of the City Council #23-1008941
LEGAL NOTICE
Public Hearing –Proposed Zoning Amendment to Chapter 650, Definitions, Affordable Housing and MV District Notice is hereby given that the City Council of the City of Marlborough will hold a PUBLIC HEARING on Monday, September 18, 2023, at 8:00 PM in the City Council Chamber, 2nd floor, City Hall, 140 Main Street, Marlborough, Massachusetts to amend Chapter 650, to amend various sections relative to Definitions, Affordable Housing and the MV District.
THAT, PURSUANT TO SECTION 5 OF CHAPTER 40A OF THE GENERAL LAWS, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MARLBOROUGH THAT CHAPTER 650 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF MARLBOROUGH, AS MOST RECENTLY AMENDED, BE FURTHER AMENDED AS FOLLOWS:
I. By amending Chapter 650 (Zoning), Section 650-5 (Definitions; word usage), Subsection B, by inserting a new definition for “Area Median Income (AMI)” and “Eligible Household”, and amending the existing definition for “Mixed Use”, to read as follows: (new text shown as underlined, deleted text shown as strikethrough):
AREA MEDIAN INCOME (AMI)
The Housing Area Median Family Income set forth in or calculated from regulations promulgated by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development pursuant to Section 8 of the Housing Act of 1937, as amended by the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, determined annually for the Metropolitan Statistical Area that includes the City of Marlborough and adjusted for family size.
ELIGIBLE HOUSEHOLD
A household whose gross household income does not exceed the corresponding percentage of AMI specified in Section 650-26.
MIXED USE
(1) A combination of permitted (Y) or special permit (SP) residential/ business uses as listed in §650-17, Table of Use Regulations, for a particular zoning district, located on the same lot and arranged vertically in multiple stories of a structure or horizontally adjacent to one another in one or more buildings.
(2) The To achieve a mix of residential to business uses, such as retail or restaurant,-uses shall be that is balanced and compatible, and shall contribute to a vibrant downtown atmosphere, including a combination of ground floor street front uses, such as retail or restaurant.
(3) Gground floors of buildings fronting streets or public accessways shall be reserved for restricted to nonresidential public business/commercial uses, except as specified below:
Dwelling units shall be allowed on ground floors of a buildings if:
(a) The building that is set behind another a mixed-use building that has business commercial uses on the ground floor and residential on other floors so long as the building set behind does not face a public way.: or (b)The residential portion of the ground floor of a building is set behind street front nonresidential uses within the same building.
II. By amending Chapter 650 (Zoning), Section 650-17 (Table of Uses), by striking “Y” and replacing it with “SP” for the following specific uses, in the MV zoning district, to read as follows: (new text shown as underlined, deleted text shown as strikethrough):
mixed-use development containing multifamily dwelling(s), thereby increasing the number or density of residential dwellings to a number or level greater than that allowable as a matter of right under the zoning classification for the subject parcel shall require the following.
(1) Developments of 8 or more units.
(a) Number of on-site affordable units. A development subject to this section 65026 shall provide that at least 12% of the dwelling units to be constructed for homeownership or rental purposes will be made available at affordable prices to eligible home buyers or renters. If when applying the specified percentage to the total number of units to determine the required number of affordable units, the resulting number of affordable units includes a fraction of a unit, this fraction, if equal to or over one-half, shall be rounded up to the next whole number.
(b) Eligibility for affordable units. All affordable units must be eligible for inclusion on the state’s Subsidized Housing Inventory (SHI). The affordable units shall be available to households at no more than eighty percent (80%) of AMI in accordance with SHI requirements. After initial occupancy, the gross household income of an eligible household shall be verified annually to determine continued eligibility and rent.
(c) Local preference. The development plan shall provide that all legally permissible efforts shall be made to provide 70% of the affordable dwelling units to eligible residents of the City of Marlborough.
(d) Distribution of affordable units. Dwelling units to be sold or rented at affordable prices shall be integrated into the overall development to prevent physical segregation of such units.
(e) Appearance. The exterior of the affordable units shall be designed to be compatible with and as nearly indistinguishable from the market rate units as possible.
(f) Minimum and maximum floor areas. Affordable housing units shall have a gross floor area not less than the minimum required by the State Department of Housing and Community Development under the regulations created under the authority of MGL Chapter 40B.
(g) Period of affordability. Limitations and safeguards shall be imposed to ensure the continued availability of the designated affordable units in perpetuity. Such limitations and safeguards may be in the form of deed restrictions, resale monitoring, requirements for income verification of purchasers and/or tenants, rent level controls and the like.
(h) Limitation on change in affordability. In no event shall any change in affordability occur if the minimum percentage of affordable units required in the entire City under MGL Chapter 40B has either not been met at that time or such change in affordability would cause the City to fall below that percentage.
(i) Staging of affordable and market-rate units. No more than 50% of the building permits for the market-rate units shall be issued until construction has commenced on 30% of the affordable units. No more than 50% of the occupancy permits for the market-rate units shall be issued until 30% of the occupancy permits for the affordable units have been issued. The City Council may modify this provision for developments under 50 units.
(i) Alternate site. The City Council may allow the developer to build some or all of the affordable housing required by Subsection A(l)(a) on an alternate site 1.within the City, provided that the City Council determines that this is in the best interest of the City and orders that this specific condition be attached to the special permit. The location of the alternate site shall either be specified at the time of approval for the special permit or selected within six months of said application and shall then be subject to approval by the Housing Partnership Committee or its successor, by the City Council if otherwise required by this Zoning Ordinance and by any other proper authority as may be required by law. The development of the alternate site shall comply with Subsection A(l) (b), (e), (f), (g), (h) and (i) of this section, and the staging of development on the alternate site shall be governed by Subsection A(1)(h) applied to all units on both the main and alternate sites
III. By amending Chapter 650 (Zoning), Section 650-18 (Conditions for uses), Subsection A, paragraphs 41 and 42, as follows: (new text shown as underlined, deleted text shown as strikethrough):
(41) Hotels within the Marlborough Village District are by special permit, and subject to site plan approval by the City Council with input from department staff who participate in administrative site plan review as provided under § 270-2. See in § 650-34B special provisions for site plan review by City Council of hotels in the Marlborough Village District.
(42) Mixed-use development, including multifamily residential uses, shall be subject to special permit provisions for multifamily uses. In the Wayside District, multifamily dwelling shall be allowed only as part of a mixed-use development.
Mixed-use development may include vertically mixed uses in a single building or horizontally mixed uses in which multiple buildings create the mix of uses on a single parcel. Each individual building may include a single use with multiple uses occurring next to each other and within multiple buildings on the single parcel.
I. By amending Chapter 650 (Zoning), Section 650-26 (Affordable Housing), to read as follows: (new text shown as underlined, deleted text shown as strikethrough):
§ 650-26. Affordable housing.
The purpose of this section is to provide that multifamily uses include an affordable component to ensure the city remains above the state’s required inventory of affordable units.
A. This section 650-26 shall apply to all developments that result in or contain eight (8) or more dwelling units, in all zoning districts, for the following types of uses: multifamily dwelling(s) or mixed-use development containing multifamily dwelling(s). This section shall apply as set forth above unless an exception is otherwise stated in this section 650-26. Compliance with this section shall be made a condition of any special permit that is required for the development.
All special permits granted to applicants to construct multifamily dwellings, or
(j) Guaranty of performance. No final certificate of occupancy shall be issued for any unit within a development subject to this section until all actions necessary to preserve the affordability of the affordable units in compliance with this section and include the affordable units on the subsidized housing inventory, including without limitation, a deed restriction, regulatory agreement and declaration of restrictive covenants, and/or any other restrictive instrument necessary, and all other required documentation, have been executed and registered or recorded by the developer, in a form satisfactory to the City Solicitor. The City Council shall require security in a form satisfactory to the City Council and City Solicitor to guarantee performance, including preservation of affordability, under this subsection, and no building permit shall be issued until and unless said security has been provided.
(2) The provisions of this section shall not apply to a special permit for an existing retirement community or the expansion of an existing retirement community as governed by §§ 650-21 and 650-22. This subsection will be effective pursuant to the applicable provisions of Chapter 40A of the General Laws.
V. By amending Chapter 650 (Zoning), Section 650-34(D)(1), to read as follows: (new text shown as underlined, deleted text shown as strikethrough):
D. Design standards.
(1) The purpose of the following design standards is to promote quality development emphasizing the City’s sense of history and desire for contextual, pedestrian-scaled projects. Supporting streamlined development review, design standards are integral to the Marlborough Village District regulations and must be met as part of any special permit and/or site plan review and approval.
(a) In addition to the design standards, in connection with a special permit and/or site plan application in the Marlborough Village District, such applications shall be reviewed with respect to the Design Review Guidelines for the Marlborough Village District. The guidelines complement the design standards of this section and provide a guide to the desired appearance and quality of design in the Marlborough Village District. The guidelines are available at the Building Department and/or on the official website of the City.
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Zoning District Abbreviations Business Use RR A-1 A-2 A-3 RB RC RCR NB B CA LI I MV Wayside Hotels (41) N N N N N N N SP SP SP SP SP Y SP N Hotels with conference facilities and commercial uses (21) N N N N N N N N SP SP SP SP Y SP N Mixed-Use Development (42) N N N N N N N SP SP N N N Y SP SP
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
Aucoin, Stella of Marlborough
Debs, Gail of Westborough Hermans, Sandra of Southborough King, Clifford of Shrewsbury
Leone Jr., Daniel formerly of Marlborough Lundberg, Ryan of Marlborough
Remillard, Roger of South Grafton
Thomas Sr., Robert of Shrewsbury
Tuson, Joseph formerly of Shrewsbury
Whitney, Sun Ok of Grafton
Wormuth, Mary of Marlborough
Sun Ok Whitney, 78
GRAFTON - Sun Ok
“Sunny” Whitney, 78, of Grafton, MA, passed away peacefully in her sleep
LEGAL NOTICES
VI. By amending Chapter 650 (Zoning), Section 650-34(D)(2), to read as follows: (new text shown as underlined, deleted text shown as strikethrough):
(2) All special permit and/or site plan review and approval applications in the Marlborough Village District shall be subject to the following design standards:
VII. By amending Chapter 650 (Zoning), Section 650-34(D)(2)(d), to read as follows: (new text shown as underlined, deleted text shown as strikethrough):
(d) External materials and appearance.
[1] Predominant wall materials for all ground floors shall be brick in traditional New England colors and character, and stone. Wood siding may be used where the structures are adjacent to residential districts where the intent is to blend the structure more into the existing neighborhood. Thin brick veneer, precast concrete panel finished to look like brick or stone, masonry brick panels, and Flexbrick (or a similar product) can be used on upper floors. Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete (GFRC) panels (or something similar) can be used for a curtain wall (non-load bearing) exterior wall cladding. If painted, or coated, a nonmetallic finish is to be used. Cladding materials should be consistent on all facades with the exception of special design elements, such as turrets. Materials designed to imitate brick, e.g., faux brick, are not permitted.
[2] The standards for all acceptable masonry construction are as follows:
[a] Acceptable masonry construction for bricks will be standard, fired clay, brick units bonded together with mortar. Acceptable applications include building components, such as walls, stairs, columns, arches, planter beds, etc.
[b] Bricks should be sound, hard, well-burnt with uniform color, shape and size.
[c] The bricks should be compact, homogeneous, free from holes, cracks, flaws, air-bubbles, spawls and stone lumps.
[d] Frogged bricks shall be laid with the frogs pointing upwards.
[e] Mortar specifications shall comply with relative ASTM International standards.
[f] The properties of all other masonry units shall comply with the requirements of relevant ASTM International standards. These include concrete masonry, stone masonry and composite masonry.
VII. By amending Chapter 650 (Zoning), Section 650-34(E)(1)(a)[2], to read as follows: (new text shown as underlined, deleted text shown as strikethrough):
[2] Spaces in city-owned public garages and lots within 1,000 feet of the development can be counted to fulfill the required spaces, with payment-in-lieu required.
VIII. By amending Chapter 650 (Zoning), Section 650-34(E)(1)(b)[1], to read as follows: (new text shown as underlined, deleted text shown as strikethrough):
[1] Eliminate parking minimums per the existing off-street parking (§650-48) unless the use is part of a mixed-use development where off-street parking would be determined during the special permit and/or site plan review process.
IX. By amending Chapter 650 (Zoning), Section 650-34(E)(2), to read as follows: (new text shown as underlined, deleted text shown as strikethrough):
(2) Payment in lieu of parking. In the Marlborough Village District, any new commercial or mixed-use structure that is required to provide parking spaces may request to make payments to the City of Marlborough in lieu of providing for part of the on-site required parking, not to exceed twenty percent (20%) of the required on-site parking spaces. If when applying the specified percentage to determine the maximum number of on-site parking spaces which may be subject to payment-in-lieu, the resulting number includes a fraction of a unit, this fraction, if equal to or over one-half, shall be rounded up to the next whole number.
the evening of July 27, 2023 at UMass Memorial Hospital after a long struggle with her health. She was surrounded by loved ones in her final hours.
She is survived by her loving husband, Bruce Whitney of Grafton, MA, her daughter Heather (Whitney) Ankner and son-in-law Michael Ankner, Jr., of Jacksonville, FL, her son Barry Whitney and daughter-in-law Cheryl (Hopkins) Whitney, also of Grafton, her nephew Soo Gin Do of Denver, CO, brothers Eui Deuk “Douggie” Do, of Worcester, MA and Eui Dong “Donny” Do, and his wife Soo Eun of Leominster, MA, her sisters Youngja Lee and her husband Jong-
kun of Framingham, MA and Mija Kim and her husband Sukman of Grafton, her grandchildren Sydney Whitney and Morgan Whitney of Grafton, (Michael) Eli Anckner of Jacksonville, and many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.
Sunny also leaves behind several family members in Busan, South Korea, including brothers Eui Ho “Hoya” Do, his wife Sungsuk Kim, and sister Soonja Do and her husband Kitae Kim.
Sunny was preceded in death by her son Brian Whitney, her father Dal Baek Do, her mother Pil Soo Chun, her brother EuieungDo, and sister Sunyae Do.
The Roney Funeral Home
of North Grafton assisted.
Clifford T. King, 76
SHREWSBURY - Clifford T. King, 76, passed away at his niece, Karen’s home surrounded by his loved ones. He was born in Worcester, son of Walter J. and Esther G. (Grogan) King and graduated from Classical High School and UMASS Amherst. He leaves a brother, Vincent P. King of Auburn; a sister, Elena A. King of Worcester; three nieces, Kristine King of Auburn, Karen Farrington of North Brookfield, Kathy Giumentaro of Nebraska; a nephew, John King of Worcester and many great nieces and nephews.
Callahan Fay Caswell Life Celebration Home of Worcester assisted with arrangements.
(a) Payment made to the City of Marlborough in lieu of providing some of the required off-street parking spaces for a project in the Marlborough Village District (MV) may only be authorized by special permit, in parking spaces designated for overnight parking, and subject to conditions set forth by special permit.
(b) A one-time fee to be paid shall be $25,000 (twenty-five thousand dollars) per parking space, which shall be paid prior to the receipt of an occupancy permit.
X. By deleting Chapter 650 (Zoning), Section 650-34(E)(3), (Additional reduction in parking requirements).
XI. By amending Chapter 650 (Zoning), Section 650-34(F), to read as follows: (new text shown as underlined, deleted text shown as strikethrough):
F. Heights of structures.
(1) To encourage redevelopment and reuse of parcels within the Marlborough Village District, minimum and maximum heights are established. Minimum heights shall be 35 feet or 2.5 stories; maximum height is 60 feet or 4 stories. Height limits do not include roof-mounted mechanical appurtenances; however, said appurtenances, and the screening required for them in § 650-34D(2)(b), shall be subject to site plan review and design standards. Rooftop mechanical equipment, including wireless communications equipment, shall be located and screened to minimize impacts on abutters and the general public. No interior space shall be occupied for any purpose above these height limits. This shall not preclude the use of a flat roof for purposes allowed in this section.
(2) Roof decks, providing recreation and amenity areas for residents and businesses on the roof above the top story of a building, shall be encouraged in the Marlborough Village District. Roof decks may include open space areas for sitting and gardens; open air areas covered by permanent roofs (flat or sloped); indoor areas for social gathering, meetings, common kitchens, restrooms, and storage; spaces for mechanical equipment; and enclosures for elevators and stairs. The portions of a building designed as a roof deck shall be subject to maximum height restrictions, but may be increased by special permit.
XII. By amending Chapter 650 (Zoning), Section 650-41 (Table of Lot Area, Yards, and Height of Structures), District: Marlborough Village District MV, Height, and Notes #12 (as referenced therein) to read as follows: (new text shown as underlined, deleted text shown as strikethrough):
District Height
Marlborough Village District MV
NOTES:
Robert C. Thomas Sr., 80
Minimum: 35 feet or 2.5 stories;
Maximum: 4 stories: not to exceed a maximum of 60 feet12
12 Within the Marlborough Village District, special permits may allow for an increase in height for a roof deck. [See § 650-34F.]
XIII. By amending Chapter 650 (Zoning), Section 650-37 (Special Provisions Applicable to the Wayside Zoning District), Subsection H(4)(A), entitled “Mixed Uses”, by inserting the following sentence at the end of the existing subsection: Floor usage in a mixed-use development shall conform to subsection (2) of the definition of “Mixed Use” set forth in Section 650-5(B).
XIV. Effective Date. The effective date of these amendments shall be the date of passage. These amendments do not apply to any special permit or site plan approval, for which an application was submitted and/or a special permit or site plan approval was issued before the date of the first publication of notice of the public hearing pursuant to MGL c. 40A, s. 5 on these amendments.
Per Order of the City Council #22/23-1008721H
SHREWSBURY - Robert C. “Bob” Thomas, Sr., 80, of Shrewsbury, passed away on Friday, August 18, 2023 in his home surrounded by his loving family. Bob leaves his devoted wife of 54 years, Joyce A. (Turner) Thomas. He also leaves his children, Kelly D. Bittle and her husband James and Robert C. Thomas, Jr., and his wife Sherrie; four grandchildren, Kristen, Nicole, Zachary and Alyssa; six great grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Adam, Maddison, Hailey, Gabriella and Lucas; a brother, Gary Thomas and a sister, Diane Thomas, as well as many nieces, nephews and wonderful friends.
The Britton-Shrewsbury Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
Dr. Gail C. Debs, 65
WESTBOROUGH - Dr. Gail C. (Walsh) Debs, 65 of Westborough, passed away surrounded by loved ones at home, Saturday, August 19, 2023, after a period of
24 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, September 1, 2023
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COMMUNITY OBITUARIES
declining health. Gail was born in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of James F. and Mabel A.T. (Bunnell) Walsh. .
Gail is survived by her devoted daughters, Dr. Jaclyn Debs of Millbury and her companion, Mark Nolan of Paxton, Stephanie Debs and her fiancée, Dr. Joshua Russell of Shrewsbury; sisters, Dr. Eileen Block and her husband Dr. Robert Block of Ballston Spa, NY, Daniela Gapp of Livonia, MI; Stepmother Judith Walsh of Scarsdale, NY; nieces and nephews including, Allyson, Jacob, Zachary, Andrew, Michael Jr., Tessa, and Sophia; her grand dogs, Sami and Chubbs; extended family and friends both here and in Michigan. In addition to her parents, a brother, Dr. James Jefferson Walsh, and pet dogs Sandy and Luke predeceased her.
The Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel of Worcester assisted with arrangements.
Stella M. Aucoin, 65
MARLBOROUGH - Stel -
la M. (Zaia) Aucoin, 65, of Marlborough, passed away Monday, August 14, 2023, at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, after a hard battle with Leukemia.
Born on July 21, 1958, in Waltham MA, Stella was the daughter of Rose (Polagruto) Zaia and the late Frank Zaia of Waltham MA. She was predeceased by her son Christopher Michael Aucoin and her brother Joseph Zaia. In addition to her husband and her mother, Stella is survived by her sister Frances Zaia and her wife Christine Dehar of Amesbury, her nephew Michael Zaia and his fiancée Maggie Edgar of Brookline, her niece Laura Ing and her husband Jake of Bellingham, and her great nephew Noah.
The Slattery Funeral
Home, Inc. of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.
Mary A. Wormuth, 88
MARLBOROUGH - Mary A. (Murphy) Wormuth, 88, of Marlborough died Saturday August 19, 2023 after a brief illness. She was the wife of the late Thomas F. Wormuth who died in 2009.
She was born in Scranton, Pennsylvania the daughter of the late Patrick and Helen (Zenich) Murphy.
She leaves two sons, Kevin M. Wormuth of Cape Cod and Thomas F. Wormuth, Jr. and his wife Jane of Lakewood Ranch, Florida; a daughter Lisa A. Ledoux and her husband Ed of Berlin; nine grandchildren, Barry, Mark, Michael, Karen, Lianne, Lindsay, Logan, JT and Charlie; a great grandson, Louie. Her Daughter Karen Marr passed away in 2008. The Collins Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.
Daniel J. Leone Jr., 77
MARLBOROUGH - Daniel (Butch) J. Leone, Jr. 77, formerly of Marlborough, MA died Sunday August 6, 2023 at Portsmouth Regional Hospital after a long battle with Parkinson’s Disease. He was the husband of the late Marilyn (Hayes) Leone who died in 2016.
He leaves his daughter Kim Wilkinson and her husband Tim of Stratham, NH; a son Keith Leone and his wife Meghan of Paxton, MA; four grandchildren, Alexandra Leone Brier, Cameron Marzio Brier, Zachary Sawyer Leone and Scarlett Ada Leone. While an only child, he leaves many cousins as well as friends that were like family.
A time of visitation will be held Friday September 8, 2023 from 3-4 PM in the
Collins Funeral Home, 378 Lincoln Street, Marlborough. A memorial service will follow at 4 PM in the funeral home. There will be a celebration after the services in the Marlborough area, details will be shared at the memorial.
Sandra Hermans, 77
SOUTHBOROUGH – Sandra Lee (Binnall) Hermans, 77, honoring the Life and Love of a Cherished Mother, Nana, Friend, and Faithful Servant of God. With profound sadness and deep gratitude for a life well-lived, we announce the passing of Sandra, a cherished wife, beloved mother, devoted nana, steadfast friend, and faithful servant of God. Sandra unexpectedly departed this world on Sunday, August 20, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of love, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication.
Sandye is survived by her loving children: her son William R. Hermans and his wife, Shana of Millbury; her daughter, Rebekka Hermans Or and her husband, Daghan of Southborough; and her daughter, Elisabeth O’Connor and her husband, Derek of Grafton. She is also survived by her seven
cherished granddaughters, Taylor Paige O’Connor, Alexandra Mae Hermans, Layce Elisabeth Hermans, Ela Elisabeth Or, Abigaile Aysil Or, Kennedy Elisabeth O’Connor, and Kellie Lynne O’Connor and her adored grandson, John Zafer Or. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, John Elis Hermans.
Mulhane Home for Funerals of Millbury assisted with arrangements.
Ryan G. Lundberg, 43
MARLBOROUGH - Ryan G. Lundberg, 43, of Marlborough, passed away August 16, 2023. He was the son of the late Doreen (Rizzelli) Lundberg Cavanagh and Carl V. Lundberg.
Ryan is survived by his brother, Eric Lundberg and his wife Cherie of Ashland, and his two nieces Sarah and Jessica and nephew Eric Jr, as well as several aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friends.
The Slattery Funeral Home, Inc. of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.
Roger J. Remillard, 87
SOUTH GRAFTON - Roger J. Remillard, 87, passed away peacefully in his home on Sunday, August 20th surrounded by his loving family. Roger leaves his wife of 65 years, Susan A. (Neslusan) Remillard. Together they
raised 5 children.
Roger was the beloved father of John J. Remillard of Millbury, Robert M. Remillard of South Grafton, and Rachel M. Flynn and her husband, Sean of North Grafton; seven grandchildren, Keith, Kyle, Benjamin and his wife Kerry, Nicholas, Anthony, Stefanie, and Jonathan; a great granddaughter, Stevie; and many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by two sons, Stevan J. Remillard and Michael J. Remillard; and a daughter-in-law, Maria L. Remillard.
Mulhane Home for Funerals of Millbury assisted with arrangements.
Joseph J. Tuson, 58
BOYNTON BEACH, FLA. - Joseph J. Tuson, 58, of Boynton Beach, Florida passed away August 16th, 2023, after battling a long illness. Born March 17, 1965, Joe grew up in Shrewsbury, MA surrounded by a great group of friends.
Predeceased by his loving mother Bridget A. Simoncini, Joe is survived by his stepfather, Joseph A Simoncini, his father, Joseph Tuson, and three sisters, Tina Brigitini, Kim Murphy, and Lori Kehoe.
There will be a celebration of life at the Worcester Athletic Club, 440 Grove Street, Worcester on Saturday, Sept 2nd at 5 PM.
COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, September 1, 2023 • 25
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Westborough volleyball team ready for another championship run
By Evan Walsh Reporter
WESTBOROUGH – The Westborough girls’ volleyball team has been borderline unbeatable in recent years.
The team went undefeated in the 2021 regular season and 2022 regular season, reached two state championship games and won the 2022 MIAA Division 2 title. Last year, the team went nine games before losing their first set.
Now, in 2023, the team hopes to remain dominant and perhaps repeat as champions.
According to Head Coach Roger Anderson, the team doesn’t feel any pressure to defend its title.
“Definitely, the kids who have been through [championships] remember it. I think we’ve learned a lot from 202[1] – that was some of what al-
lowed us to have success the next year,” said Anderson, referencing Westborough’s 2021 championship loss to Hopkinton. “We try to treat
each season as its own entity… We certainly always try to learn from whatever is under our belt, but each team has its own identity.”
Although the team graduated six seniors, including two starters, Anderson said that he’s ready for the next group of seniors to step up, lead the
team and set the tone for the year.
“We’ve got a new group of seniors this year and a new group of captains,” he said. “We’re really excited about how they’re going to lead, develop, and we look forward to going out there each day and trying to get a little better.”
The team hasn’t yet had tryouts, but Anderson expects another strong team.
“We definitely have some pretty big holes to fill, but we come back with some pretty big pieces in place… We have some ideas of who we’re going to be [and] we have some people who played quite a bit of volleyball at a very high level. That gives us a good place to start,” Anderson said. Anderson will start his 25th season coaching; he has made six state championships and won three titles in that time.
26 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, September 1, 2023 COMMUNITY SPORTS
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Members of the 2022 Westborough High School volleyball team pose for a group photo after winning the championship.
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PHOTO/LAURA HAYES
SHREWSBURY – St. John’s High School announced on Aug. 21 that Charlie Eppinger will step down as head varsity baseball coach.
After 18 seasons, Eppinger ends his tenure as the coach with the most wins in the program’s history with an overall record of 289-121.
“We want to thank Coach Eppinger for all of his hard work, commitment and service to our program over the past 18 years,” Headmaster Alex Zequeira said in a state-
ment. “I am grateful for Coach Eppinger’s outstanding service to his alma mater, and am thrilled that he will continue to guide and educate our young men in the classroom every day.”
St. John’s baseball program reached new heights under Eppinger’s leadership, earning three D1A super eight appearances, one final four appearance this past season in the new statewide playoff system and 11 CMC championships.
Volleyball team ready for championship run
Volleyball | from page 26
While the team will have its eyes on the prize, Anderson noted that there’s more to volleyball than the championship trophy.
“I’m not necessarily more proud of the team that wins the state championship versus one that loses or one that
doesn’t make it,” he said. “It’s really about taking what we have and trying to maximize [player’s] potential each year and develop them into being really good people. The state championships are really nice, but they are bonuses on top of what we’re really trying to do.”
Winter is Around the Corner
In 2017, Eppinger led the Pioneers to the D1A Super 8 State Championship against St. John’s Prep.
Eppinger will continue to serve as a member of the math department in the high school.
“It has been an incredible pleasure to coach here at Saint John’s High School,” Eppinger said. “I have enjoyed working with everyone on the field over the past 18 years. I want
to thank the student-athletes I have had the opportunity to watch grow and thrive over the years; coaching them has been a privilege. I look forward to continuing to educate them in the classroom.”
Eleven of Eppinger’s players have been drafted and signed by Major League Baseball teams, including two –Ryan O’Rourke (class of 2006) and John Andreoli Jr. (class of 2008) – who played in the Major Leagues. Currently, there
are 12 collegiate players who played for the Pioneers during his tenure.
St. John’s High School will immediately begin the search for its next head varsity baseball coach. The position is posted on its website and a committee of administrators, faculty, coaches and alumni led by Athletic Director Michael Mead will review and interview applicants. For more information, visit www.stjohnshigh.org.
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Charlie Eppinger will step down as baseball coach for St. John’s High School after 18 seasons.
PHOTO COURTESY OF ST. JOHN’S HIGH SCHOOL
“ We want to thank Coach Eppinger for all of his hard work, commitment and service to our program over the past 18 years.
Alex Zequeira Headmaster
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