CA 240329

WHS student cultivates skill with drones for farming project

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – Ansh Hiranandani has been into drones since he was in seventh grade.

Westborough| 5

Now a junior at Westborough High School, Hiranandani wanted to do more with drones than fly them and take photos. He found that “more” through the Raah Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to helping the less fortunate in India.

“My aunt knew people at the foundation” and helped make the connection, he said.

“It is not a big foundation, but they really help the impoverished,” said Preeti Hiranandani, Ansh’s mother.

In the summer of 2021, Hiranandani was visiting family in the Mumbai region.

“Mumbai is such a big city, but step outside, and there’s a lot of rural area,” he said.

Blogging about the project, Hiranandani described some of the challenges facing farmers in this region.

Northborough| 13

School Committee votes to pursue SHS expansion again

shrewsbury| 15

“During my travels in India, especially in regions like Mokhada, Maharashtra, I had the privilege of engaging with farmers on a personal level. Throughout our interactions, their resilience in the face of adversity was both inspiring and heart-wrenching,” said Hiranandani. “The struggles they face are multifaceted – from unpredictable weather conditions and water scarcity to the challenge of identifying

Combined health, human services heads to TM

By Laura Hayes, Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH – Two articles on the Town Meeting warrant would establish a combined health and human services department.

“There’s a significant need for community health services,” said Central Massachusetts Regional Planning Commission (CMRPC) Regional Projects Manager Connor Robichaud during a combined meeting

Ansh Hiranandani and the drone he used to help locate arable land in rural India. (Courtesy Photo)

Voters scrutinize spending at Town Meeting

Egg-citing egg hunt at Algonquin

Westborough Women’s Club holds afternoon tea

WESTBOROUGH – On March

19, the Westborough Women’s Club monthly meeting featured an afternoon tea at the Knights of Columbus.

Individual tea settings decorated each table for a traditional British tea.

More than 70 women, many dressed in tea fashion with fascinators, dresses and gloves, attended. The guest speaker was Alex Toso, who was born and educated in England. She talked about the British and shared their love of tea, and the tradition of afternoon tea.

Originated in the 1700s as an afternoon meal, the WWC members similarly enjoyed a cup of tea and a buffet of British foods, including sandwiches of cucumber with dill cream cheese, smoked salmon with lemon cream cheese, ham and fig, and egg salad with curry.

The dessert table was laden with scones and clotted cream, chocolate-dipped strawberries, fruit-topped lemon tarts, cream Victoria cakes, mini tassies and more.

Toso also entertained the membership by sharing many anecdotes of her life in England and her work as a nanny while attending university. She also

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More than 70 members of the Westborough Women’s Club celebrated a British-style afternoon tea at the Knights of Columbus.

(Photos/Maureen Sullivan)

had the opportunity to attend several teas, including at London’s National Gallery, the British Museum, Harrods, Claridge’s and Westminster Abbey.

A club business meeting followed Toso’s presentation.

More than 110 women are members of the WWC. It is open to all women interested in contributing to the betterment of the community. To join or for more information, visit www. westboroughwomensclub.org.

MARLBOROUGH – On March 14, Solomon Pond Mall unveiled its new 6,800-squarefoot Pond Club and Conference Center with a Boston Bruins watch party.

The event raised more than $1,000 for Triboro Youth Hock-

ey, and it featured the Boston Bruins at Montreal Canadiens game that was displayed on a 150-inch screen.

Bruins anthem singer Todd Angilly was on hand to sing the national anthem; he was joined by Bruins alumni Frank

Simonetti, John Carter, Kenny Hodge and David A. Jensen.

The center is on level two, next to Aeropostale.

For information on upcoming events at the mall, visit https://visitsolomonpond. com/.

Please join us in celebrating the 20-year commitment of these dedicated staff members:

Mensah, Mary Benson, Deb DeZutter, Wilhemina Quist and Patience Ntimguakafi L- R

Your best life starts here. Because here, you’re family.

TWO DECADES OF HEARTFELT CARE

WHITNEY PLACE AT NORTHBOROUGH

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

PUBLISHER/EDITOR: David Bagdon

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: 508.930.9022

MANAGING EDITOR: Laura Hayes

ASSISTANT EDITOR: Maureen Sullivan

PROJECT

To the editor of Community Advocate: Few Shrewsbury and Boylston residents are yet aware that Shrewsbury’s Planning Board is deciding whether to permit construction of two distribution warehouses in northwest Shrewsbury. Why should you care?

The warehouse’s combined square feet would equal 16 football fields, abut Shrewsbury/Boylston homes, rest atop Shrewsbury’s aquifer (the town’s water source), and overlook wetlands and Newton Pond. Most of an estimated 544 trailer trucks daily would use the I-290 on/off ramps at Shrewsbury’s Main Street. They would proceed through Worcester’s Lincoln /Plantation Street area enroute to the warehouses on Boylston’s Route 70 at 142 Clinton Street.

The risks are many. For example, already hazardous, the I-290/ Main intersection is just around the corner from Shrewsbury High School and its young drivers. And diesel exhaust from 500 trucks a day will degrade air quality, endangering children in the area and people with respiratory problems.

Surely, you say, the Planning Board will assess all the risks. But at a March 7 public hearing, concerned citizens asked if studies would be done on risks associated with exhaust emissions and with the intersection near the high school. Surprisingly, the Board replied that its permit decision could be made without such studies.

This project seems too big and too risky for the communities they will disturb. To see it for yourself, view the Shrewsbury Planning Boar’s website under “Projects in Permitting,” then go to “142 Clinton Street” project and the “1/4/2024” link. It’s a jaw-dropper.

Residents are urged to learn more by attending the monthly public meetings of the Shrewsbury Planning Board where this project is being discussed. Dates are provided on the Planning Board’s website.

Thomas Grisso Shrewsbury

The Community Advocate is a weekly periodical, (U.S.P.S. # 014-423), published by Bagdon Advertising, Inc., with offices located at 32 South Street, Westborough, MA 01581. Periodicals postage is paid at Shrewsbury, MA 01546 and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Please send address changes to: Community Advocate, 32 South Street, Westborough, MA 01581. Publication date is Friday. Deadline for R.O.P. advertising, local community news and classified advertising is Friday, noon, seven days prior to publication. Not liable for typographical errors, however, we will reprint that portion of the ad wherein error occurred if notified in writing within three working days of the publication date. All material included is the property of The Community Advocate and may include material produced under copyright or a syndicated ad service. Permission must be obtained in writing before reproducing any material from any issue of the Community Advocate.

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WESTBOROUGH – Sun rises over downtown Westborough. The Community Advocate’s drone photographer Tami White captured this photo in the midst of a rainy weekend. (Photo/Tami White)

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Voters scrutinize spending at Town Meeting

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – During a year with a projected large increase in the town’s property taxes, those who attended the Annual Town Meeting on March 23 scrutinized every item with a dollar sign in front of it.

More than six hours were devoted to deliberations and discussions on the operating budget and the capital improvement plan.

All but one item passed; an item to borrow $1.07 million to renovate the roof at Mill Pond Elementary School was passed over.

During deliberations on the operating budget, Rod Shaffert and Wilfred Savoy offered an amendment to use free cash to further lower taxes. Instead of the $450,000 in free cash recommended by the town, they suggested holding off on some of the capital requests and boosting the amount of free cash to lower the tax increase to $1.2 million.

While that drew some support from residents, Select Board member Allen Edinberg said such a move would be against the town’s fiscal policy.

In addition, the proposal “would put the town’s bond rating at risk,” he said.

Town Meeting defeated the amendment 251-115.

Shaffert also voiced his objection over several items within the municipal budget. He said that with “such a tremendous tax increase, this is not the year” for adding staff or upgrades.

A request to trim about $246,000 from the school

budget was defeated.

Town Meeting ended up approving all requests in the operating budget. The Historical Commission even got a boost in its budget, receiving an extra $5,000 to keep the office at Forbes open several hours per week.

Items within the capital improvement plan were also examined closely. Most of the discussion focused on the three requests put forth by Westborough Public Schools to fund design costs for the high school roof.

Both School Committee

Chair Stephen Doret and Superintendent Amber Bock said the projects were necessary because most of the roof was more than 50 years old — “well beyond” its useful life, said Bock.

Doret said that doing these projects now would help avoid bigger problems in the future.

“You cannot fix a roof in a short amount of time,” he said.

The School Department also got Town Meeting approval

to borrow $4.142 million to replace the roof at Hastings Elementary School. The project will take place this summer.

Another borrow of $2.624 million will be used for Americans with Disabilities Act and Massachusetts Architectural Access Board upgrades at Hastings.

The Westborough Public Library’s repair project will move forward, thanks to a $1.178 million borrow approved at Town Meeting.

Citizens’ petitions

Of the 14 citizens’ petitions presented to Annual Town Meeting, two were passed over at the request of the petitioners, one passed after it was amended and the others were defeated by wide margins.

This included what Town Moderator John Arnold called the “penultimate” petition, the so-called “Townie Baby Award.” Supporters called it a way to honor those born and raised in Westborough; detractors called it ambiguous and

ban gender-affirming care for minors; to end probable future mandates (masks, vaccines, etc.); to leave the senior center, golf club and Westborough Public Library alone; and to repeal the stormwater tax.

A petition to have new affordable housing units located equally throughout town was amended by Ed Behn of the Affordable Housing Trust. The amended version, which includes the switch of “equitably” for “equally,” passed by a 300-90 margin.

The petitions to opt in for sex education and “no political bias” in education teaching standards were passed over.

“unjust” in the way the award — $1,000 per baby, payable via a taxpayer-supported fund — would honor a small portion of the families in town.

The petition was defeated 373-10.

Town Meeting also turned down petitions to fund an Afro-Caribbean festival; along with nonbinding requests to

Special moments

Town Meeting held a moment of silence for several residents who have died, including Olivia Colby, the young woman who was found dead after being reported missing for a week.

Voters also applauded Bock for her 10 years of service to the town.

The Advisory Finance Committee meets just before the start of Annual Town Meeting on March 23 at the high school auditorium. (Photo/Maureen Sullivan)

By Michael Perna Jr. History Columnist

SHREWSBURY – When Tatassit Beach opened on South Quinsigamond Avenue in 1928, it quickly became an extremely popular destination, not only for swimming in Lake Quinsigamond, but also for renting canoes, its diving tower, and a number of water-based rides and attractions.

In addition, after a few years, the Hi-Hat nightclub was opened on what was then known as Plum Island, located in the building originally used as the quarters of the Tatassit Canoe Club, which had owned the property prior to it being converted to the beach.

Patrons crossing over the footbridge from the beach to the island clubhouse would be

greeted by a gentleman in top hat and tails who would bow and say, “Welcome to the HiHat!” In later years the Hi-Hat was converted into summer rooms to rent, with the dining and dancing no longer taking place. One relic that has been preserved from the “glory days” of the club however is a large metal “tap” rescued from the club’s bar when the beach

was closed.

The large club building itself, nearly 22,000 square feet, burned to the ground in 2009 in a huge fire after it had been closed for about 20 years and had fallen into disrepair. The blaze was later found to be deliberately set. The island was sold at auction in 2011, and private residences stand on the beach property today.

Flaherty Physical Therapy to hold women’s health seminar

By Evan Walsh, Reporter

REGION – Flaherty Physical Therapy will host “Women’s Health Starts With Self-Care” on April 6 from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

The event will be held at Flaherty’s Northborough location. It starts with introductions by Kevin Flaherty and Kim Flaherty, the co-owner of Open Circle Acupuncture and Healing. At 7:30 a.m., attendees will hear about pelvic health and diaphragmatic breathing from Julia LeBlanc, PT, DPT, RYT, COMT. Afterward, at 8:30 a.m., Beverly Mazza, BSN, RN, will detail a nutrition-focused approach to natural detoxification.

“I hope people have a different perspective on health and wellness. I want women to have some ideas of different ways to keep themselves healthy and let them run with it,” Kevin said.

The rest of the seminar includes presentations from:

• Elena Moglia, PT, MSPT, COMT – Benefits of Pilates Training for Women’s Health

• Melissa Stein, Lic.Ac, Herbalist – Balancing Hormones and Increased Vitality with Acupressure

• Jennifer Warkentin, Ph.D. – Cultivating an Emotional Wellness Mindset

According to Kevin, the seminar is designed to be an all-encompassing look at women’s health.

“I’m thrilled. This is hitting so many different areas. We’re hitting the exercise piece, acupuncture is talking about the resetting piece, counseling is talking about the counseling side, and then nutrition is talking about nutrition. These are great people who are super smart, and we just feel like they have so much to offer the community,” he said.

The seminar costs $99 per person. To register, visit www. flahertyphysicaltherapy.com.

See our ad on page 21 for more information.

Castinetti Realty Group announces new Maine location

SHREWSBURY – Castinetti Realty Group — the real estate company known for giving back to the community with every transaction — is expanding its efforts.

The group has opened a new location in Kennebunk, Maine. The location is officially opened for business.

“We have many clients looking to move to southern Maine to live or vacation,” said owner Andrea Castinetti. “We are thrilled to have this new opportunity.”

The location was established with Sue Gordon as the lead, who owns a home in Kennebunk and is establishing herself in the community.

Castinetti Realty Group is a member of the chamber of commerce encompassing Kennebunk, Kennebunkport and Arundel.

Castinetti Realty group is a 9-year-old boutique real estate company focusing on giving to the community with every transaction.

“I made the commitment to a home in Kennebunk and love the community. I look forward to helping others move to the area,” said Gordon. She can be reached by calling 207-204-2035 or calling/ texting 508-333-4672.

The Tatassit Canoe Club on a small island in Lake Quinsigamond later became the Hi-Hat nightclub, a popular destination for dancing in Shrewsbury in the early 20th century.

Sue Gordon and Gary Kelley

‘It’s New England’s Smithsonian:’ American Heritage Museum celebrates history

By Evan Walsh Reporter

HUDSON – The American Heritage Museum is New England’s Smithsonian and Hudson’s hidden gem.

The museum, located off of Main Street in eastern Hudson, features an almost-unrivaled display of military history, with artifacts ranging from fragments of the Berlin Wall to clusters of armored vehicles and tanks. The military exhibit, part of the Jacques M. Littlefield Collection that was donated to the museum in 2013, sits beside two other equally impressive exhibits on aviation and vintage automobiles.

All in all, it’s a world-class collection conveniently located in the heart of Massachusetts.

“It’s still a very fresh, very new museum, but it is extraordinary in that this museum is the only type of collection like this in North America. We’re continuing to expand and develop programs and exhibits in the museum regularly. The collection is just astounding — it’s a jaw-dropper,” American Heritage Museum Director of Marketing and Communications Hunter Chaney told the Community Advocate in an interview.

The Littlefield Collection, displayed in the museum’s main building, traces military history from the Revolutionary War to the modern era. The museum features military vehicles, tanks, uniforms, weaponry and much more. The American Heritage Museum continues to feature more historical artifacts; in January, the museum dedicated a German railcar, the start of a brand-new comprehensive Holocaust exhibit. There is also an extensive exhibit on the Hanoi Hilton that was recently unveiled.

“Coming across these rare artifacts and reconstructing them and restoring them for public display is a timeless objective for us. This is something that we’ll continuously do until the very end. It’s what motivates us,” said Chaney.

The museum also has one of the world’s largest collections of historical aircraft, spanning from the early days of aviation to advanced, technological marvels used in the Korean War. It’s all under one on-site hangar, ready for public viewing. The American Heritage Museum also boasts

an impressive collection of automobiles — from as early as 1901 — housed adjacent to the airplanes.

The world-class collection is impressive alone, but it’s enhanced by the museum’s unique approach. Instead of allowing the items to sit passively, the American Heritage Museum pushes the envelope, looking for unique and innovative ways to utilize the collection. History comes alive at the museum.

“It’s one thing to see a static artifact, but when you see things in motion, when you’re enveloped in history or you have a chance to interact with a moment in history, that’s where true understanding occurs. We’re continuing to really emphasize that,” Chaney said. “We have a saying here: ‘If you read about history, you might remember it. If you experience something from history, you tend not to forget.’ That’s what we try to do. We provide an environment that not only engages you in history, but excites you to want to learn more.”

For instance, on May 25 and 26, the museum will hold a World War II tank demonstration, firing up the massive 1940s-era engines and driving them around the property. The museum’s website allows community members to register to drive the vehicles. At the demonstration — complete with World War II reenactments — the museum will be hosting several World War II veterans, some of whom may have driven the tanks themselves in the war.

Tank demonstrations will

will hold a World War II reenactment of the pacific theater in July. In October, the reenactments will continue with the World War II battlefield reenactment, which features over 250 actors trying to take over an airfield under heavy Nazi fire.

“The premise is that the Germans have captured the airfields of Stow, Massachusetts, and it’s up to the Allied forces to take over the airfield and further their advancement. We have this dynamically choreographed reenactment. It’s just an excellent way to engage people in World War II history,” said Chaney.

continue in August.

In June, the museum will host Tanks, Wings & Wheels Weekend. The museum makes an excellent Father’s Day destination, and the entire collection will be on display for community members to enjoy.

New this year, the museum

In September, join the museum for Historic Aviation Weekend . Specialists from around the world will come to Hudson to present the planes. Chaney said that the museum “pulls out his favorite toys” for the event.

The American Heritage Museum is located at 568 Main St. in Hudson. For more information on the museum and the Collings Foundation, please visit https://www.americanheritagemuseum.org/.

Business Profiles are advertising features designed to provide information and background about Community Advocate advertisers.

UniBank hosts community shred event

GRAFTON – UniBank at 89 Worcester St. (Route 122) will host a Community Shred Day on Saturday, April 6, from 9 a.m. to noon. Bring up to 10 file boxes of personal confidential documents for secure destruction, along with a nonperishable food item for the Grafton Food Bank.

Shredding services will be on site in a mobile shredding vehicle, and they will be provided by New England Security Shredders.

At the American Heritage Museum, visitors can not only view exhibits, but ride a vintage tank. (Photo/Courtesy)

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – Jet skis will continue to be allowed on Lake Quinsigamond, but they’ll have a shorter leash.

During the Lake Quinsigamond Commission’s Feb. 29 meeting, officials opted to table the banning of jet skis, instead choosing to significantly increase policing, enforcement and communica-

tion to stop bad behavior on the lake.

In July, residents voiced concerns about an increase in jet ski activity on Lake Quinsigamond. The residents alleged that some of the jet ski users were excessively loud, disruptive, inconsiderate and operating the devices recklessly, endangering other lake users.

Most of the problematic jet ski users do not live on the

lake, officials have said at previous meetings. Although law enforcement has tried to stop the offenders, the dangerous behavior continues in what some residents have called “a game of cat and mouse.”

On Nov. 8, the Lake Quinsigamond Commission held an open public meeting regarding jet-ski usage. At several points, representatives on the commission noted a complete jetski ban was on the table.

The meeting garnered mixed feedback, with many community members asking for only Lake Quinsigamond residents to be able to use jet skis on the lake. The commission decided to form a subcommittee to study the issue and examine any potential action. That subcommittee met on Feb. 1 and Feb. 15.

“The real purpose of the subcommittee is to see what we’re going to do to make the

Contested race for library trustee in Shrewsbury

By Evan Walsh, Reporter

SHREWSBURY – Nomination papers were due on March 19 for the upcoming town election.

Here’s who is running, according to the town clerk’s office.

MODERATOR for 3 years (Vote for One)

- James F. Kane (incumbent)

SELECT BOARD MEMBER for 3 years (Vote for One)

- Theresa Flynn (incumbent)

SCHOOL COMMITTEE for 3 years (Vote for One)

- Jonathan N. Wensky (incumbent)

SHREWSBURY HOUSING AUTHORITY for 5 years (Vote for One)

- Paul M. Campaniello (incumbent)

TRUSTEES OF PUBLIC LIBRARY for 3 years (Vote for Not More than Three)

- Deborah P. Lebeaux (incumbent)

- Clare M. O’Connor (incumbent)

- Poornima K. Tekumalla (incumbent)

TRUSTEES OF PUBLIC LIBRARY for 1 year to fill a vacancy (Vote for Not More than One)

- Maurice J. Boisvert

- Louise M. Garone

This list does not include Town Meeting member vacancies. This year’s election is on May 7. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

lake safer. When I say safer, it’s not just safer for the residents, [which is] an important thing, but safer for anyone who uses the lake [like] law enforcement … We have some good ideas to do here that we’ve talked about, and with my mind I’m ready to take these ideas and proposals and plans from law enforcement and go to the commission and say, ‘We should give this a shot,’ ” said Commission Chair Peter Collins on Feb. 15.

The commission hopes to crack down on jet skis early and often in an attempt to ensure only safe, well-meaning individuals use the waterway. At the meeting, members of the commission mentioned ramp enforcement, more officials patrolling the water and better communication between the four governmental agencies responsible for the lake.

The Lake Quinsigamond Commission will monitor the situation over the coming months. Changes could still be made.

“If we continue to have complaints, if we continue to see an overwhelming disregard for rules and regulations and general politeness on the lake, we will revisit this,” said Collins.

The commission can also exercise Rule 29 and Rule 30 at any time; the rules impose yearlong bans on operators and watercraft if the commission finds “the person operated a vessel in a manner that was negligent or endangered the public.” The rules have been implemented before but not often.

“I’m willing to do it as much as we can,” said Collins on Feb. 15.

Combined health, human services to go before Town Meeting

was not good for half or more of the past month.

Town Meeting | from page 1 town gives up some level of autonomy when it goes for grant funding, “The pros far outweigh the cons.”

Assessment

When Town Administrator Tim McInerney arrived in Northborough, former Health Director Kristin Black and interim Town Administrator Mike Gallagher requested that the town move forward with a study to examine a model that would merge the Health Department and Northborough Family and Youth Services (NFYS).

The town issued a request for proposals seeking assistance, and the assessment was ultimately conducted by CMRPC.

Based on input, CMRPC developed a recommended structure for a combined department. Robichaud stressed that there wouldn’t be any changes to the authority or responsibility of any town boards.

“This unified structure would allow for a more streamlined and coordinated utilization of resources,” he said.

The structure calls for a director of health and human services along with nine supporting roles.

According to interim Health Director Isabella Caruso, the director would be funded by the town. The shared services coordinator is currently part time and funded through the Public Health Excellence Shared Service Grant. That grant also funds the epidemiologist, public health nurse and health inspector.

The drug free communities coordinator is also grant funded.

The part-time sanitarian would be a town-funded position, as would be the community outreach worker and a clerical position.

A portion of the social worker position would be funded through the Opioid Abatement Settlement Fund.

In fiscal year 2024, the combined NFYS and health budgets amounted to $399,663. The proposed combined budget for fiscal 2025 is estimated at $402,735. That proposed budget would be further bolstered by $755,646 in grant funds for a total of $1.2 million.

During the meeting, some members of the Select Board voiced concerns about reliance on grant funding.

Robichaud said while the

“The amount of grant funding that’s available that can support the town in various ways as well as the programs that we’re talking about are not traditional grant programs where you get funding for a year or two and then have to figure

out something else,” he said.

The grants are long term, he continued, and Northborough has been strategic to keep new staff positions tied to the longterm grants.

Select Board member Julianne Hirsh said she looked at the request for proposals for the assessment.

“It seems to me there was a little bit of a bias from the get-

go — how do we get these two services integrated,” she said. “I just have some nagging doubts about some of the information.”

Hirsh said the people interviewed for the assessment were “overwhelmingly” staff. She said she would feel better if more residents were interviewed.

She also voiced concerns about the models used — like

Needham and Nantucket — and that the assessment reported that a lot would depend on the individual hired as the department head.

Black, who called into the meeting, said she believed in this model.

“This is what the people have been asking for, and I think it’s an incredible opportunity,” she said.

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Local government officials reflect on Women’s History Month

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – March is Women’s History Month, and Shrewsbury leaders gathered to celebrate the occasion.

The senior center hosted several female local government officials on March 19, giving the community an “opportunity to honor and acknowledge women who lead transformative change,” according to the event flier, and hear different perspectives on the importance of women’s history.

Speakers at the event included former Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito, Rep. Hannah Kane (R-Shrewsbury), Select Board Chair Beth Casavant, Council on Aging Director Hollie Lucht, and Select Board members Theresa Flynn and Michelle Conlin.

“I think it’s recent history for Shrewsbury to have women serving on the Select Board now, but I’ve always felt — and I moved here 27 years ago now — that Shrewsbury has been really supportive of women’s

leadership,” Kane told the crowd at the event. “I’m inspired every day by women in Shrewsbury who jump in and say, ‘How can I help? What is needed?’ It’s something I take great pride in.”

Kane currently serves as House chair for the Massachusetts Caucus of Women Legislators.

In her remarks, Polito mentioned Olive Borgatti, the talented bookkeeper behind Spag’s, the iconic Shrewsbury store.

While Spag’s was in its hey-

day, Borgatti balanced running the business and motherhood, moving her office into her home. The Shrewsbury Historical Society calls Borgatti the “backbone” of the business.

“Talk about being a woman so ahead of her time. It didn’t delay her. She didn’t remove herself from her career. She did it all, and she did it with a lot of support, and she was very successful at it,” said Polito.

“She was a pioneering woman making decisions at a time women weren’t making those choices, but they’re

“I always talk about this push-pull with women. It’s our job to help identify [talent] and push, and it’s also the pulling mechanism. We also have to be in the room to advance things when they’re happening,” she told the audience.

Local government leaders shared the same sentiment.

the same kinds of choices and challenges that exist today for women… trying to balance it all,” she said.

All Select Board members who spoke shared one thing in common — they all said they were inspired by Kane to run for office. Several speakers mentioned that Kane had recognized their talent and encouraged them to seek elected office during one-on-one meetings over coffee.

For Kane, it’s important to uplift and encourage fellow women whenever possible.

“I want to help others — other women especially — in this community to see that there are great opportunities for leadership and that there are great people that will appreciate their contributions,” Flynn said.

“[When I ran for Select Board], I thought about what my three little boys will see. I wanted them to be able to see that women belong in these positions. We belong in positions of power and authority and decision-making and places that are important. They should never be afraid to see themselves in those positions, but also women in those positions, and for this to be normal for them,” said Conlin.

cultivable land for efficient farming.”

That’s where Hiranandani and his drone come in. As part of a field team from the foundation, he would record images on the drone, and then submit those images to the foundation, which uses artificial intelligence to help identify potential farmland.

“Recognizing the reliance of many existing agricultural technology solutions on developers rather than empowering farmers, Ansh decided to create a drone technology specifically tailored to directly assist farmers. This technology, unlike others on the market, would place control in the hands of the farmers themselves,” said Ankita Luharia, senior vice president for the Raah Foundation.

“He developed a drone technology capable of assessing soil parameters, locating water sources and more. This innovation proved immensely beneficial, particularly for our Drone | from page 1

indigenous farmers working on undulating terrain. It not only aided those on flat land, but also supported those struggling to cultivate two seasonal crops in such challenging conditions,” said Luharia.

His agricultural drone project earned Hiranandani and classmate Rishab Nair an hon-

orable mention at the Worcester Regional Science and Engineering Fair in 2023.

Hiranandani has used his drone skills in other parts of the world as well. While on vacation with his family in Iceland, he recorded a video of a volcanic eruption.

He is currently working

on a project with California’s Department of Forestry and Fire Protection to use drones to detect wildfires sooner.

“We can use drones to determine if fires are present” and help prevent those fires from spreading, he said.

Closer to home, Hiranandani has been flying his drone

taking videos for the high school. Some of his material will be posted on the school’s new website once it comes online.

Hiranandani plans to major in aerospace engineering — and continue his work with drones — when he gets into college.

Abive: A drone’s eye view of the rural area just outside Mumbai, India. Right: Through the Raah Foundation, Westborough High School junior Ansh Hiranandani is helping local farmers near Mumbai, India, locate more arable land. (Courtesy Photos)

By Evan Walsh Reporter

NORTHBOROUGH – At 9 a.m., over 3,000 eggs were scattered on the Algonquin football field.

Come 9:03 a.m., almost every egg had been collected.

Despite cold weather and rain that delayed the event one day, hundreds of eager egg hunters gathered at Algonquin Regional High School on the morning of March 24 for the National Honor Society’s annual Spring Egg Hunt. This was the first year that the school’s new turf field was used for the event.

“Our main focus is service as the National Honor Society. We wanted the high schoolers to put together a program to prepare the eggs, to prepare the hunt, and then today it’s really important for them to see the kids and how happy they are. They’re going to take pictures with the Easter Bunny, they’re going to get a bunch of candy, they’re going to be on a ‘sugar high.’ It’s important that the students are running it and

they see how happy these kids are,” Colleen Roy, the Algonquin National Honor Society adviser, told the Community Advocate. The event, which was free to the public, drew a large crowd.

Children had the opportunity to take pictures with the Easter

Bunny, play tug-of-war and participate in other outdoor activities with the high school students. Of course, the highlight of the event was the egg hunt; children ran up and down the field to accumulate candyfilled plastic eggs.

With so many children — and so many eggs — it took the Algonquin National Honor Society time to prepare the event. The society has been planning the event since December.

“There was definitely a lot of work put on before and after

school by all of our members. We had multiple meetings where we had all of our members just stuffing eggs. We had extra volunteers after school to really hit that 3,000 number… We really wanted to make it special,” said Algonquin National Honor Society Vice President Tessa James.

Algonquin National Honor Society members each donated at least 100 pieces of candy to fill the eggs. Despite arriving at Algonquin at roughly 7:30 a.m. to “hide” the eggs, volunteers were full of energy, donning bunny ears, helping the participating children fill their baskets and assisting with the outdoor games.

“All these students are super committed. They’re super reliable students. I think every single person who said that they were going to be here made it. They came bright in the morning and set up. Nobody is just sitting around and not doing anything,” Algonquin National Honor Society Secretary Lindsay Ogar said.

Top and right: Children gather eggs at Algonquin Regional High School on Sunday morning.

Far Right: Algonquin student Eric Sun poses with the Easter Bunny. (Photo/Evan Walsh)

State officials talk trout with Shrewsbury High School students

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – Secretary of Education Patrick Tutwiler may have come to see the trout, but he left impressed with the students.

Tutwiler — alongside Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs Rebecca Tepper — visited Shrewsbury High School on March 15 to learn about the Teaching with Trout program — MassWildlife’s environmental education curriculum — from students.

As the officials walked into science teacher John Brocki’s classroom, they were greeted by a handful of students, MassWildlife personnel and district leaders huddled around two tanks of trout.

The Teaching with Trout program — which 64 schools and 5,100 students participate in throughout the state — allows students to raise

brook trout over the winter and release the fish into their natural habitat in the spring. In the process, students learn about their local environment. Led by Brocki, who has

taught in the district since 2014, the school’s Marine Biology Club manages the trout, which are delivered in December as 200 eggs. The trout develop in an in-class-

room insulated tank, hatch in January and are released into the Assabet River before April break. Students monitor the fish and water throughout the entire process.

“The students really do most of the work on this. I really just advise them… They’ve done an excellent, wonderful job this year. You can tell, we’ve got some really fat bellies on our fish this year. They’re well fed, which increases the chance they’re going to survive when we finally do release them,” Brocki said.

Several students outlined how their interest in marine biology drove them to get involved with the fish. MassWildlife officials, who brought several full-grown trout for comparison, shared how they became involved with the organization.

The visit from Tutwiler and Tepper also highlighted Shrewsbury’s Innovation Career Pathways program.

Brocki works the trout into his lessons. The fish connect most easily into his AP Environmental Science classes, but Brocki is also able to creatively use the fish while teaching biology when demonstrating water quality or genetic abnormalities. Shrewsbury High School Principal Todd Bazydlo said that Brocki sends him photos every April of the Marine Biology Club releasing the fish into the wild.

“I think the biggest thing that makes Mr. Brocki stand out is that he holds students to high standards. He expects the best out of them. He pushes them to do their best, and he believes in them… He lets students take risks,” Shrewsbury High School Director of Science and Engineering David Hruskoci told the Community Advocate after the presentation.

Tutwiler and Tepper asked students questions about their experience with the Teaching with Trout program.

Several students and educators involved with the biomedical engineering part of the program shared their experiences. The program seeks to expose students to a variety of potential career options, providing them with handson, real-world experience.

“They sound like they’re completely different programs. You have the trout program. How could that even possibly relate to biomedical sciences? The way they relate is because in both opportunities you’re seeing what’s out there outside of high school. Students are talking to people who work in the industry,” said Hruskoci.

“What an outstanding opportunity to have state leaders talk with students about their experiential-learning opportunities with our trout-raising program and also our biomedical pathways program. Just having them interact with our students was absolutely fantastic. I truly appreciate the secretaries coming out and taking the time and energy to talk to our students and staff,” Bazydlo said after the event.

Students explain the Teaching with Trout program to state officials, MassWildlife personnel and Shrewsbury district leaders.

MassWildlife brought trout to the event. (Photos/Evan Walsh)

School Committee votes to pursue SHS expansion again

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – After an unsuccessful bid last year, the School Committee voted on March 13 to submit another statement of interest (SOI) to the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) to potentially expand Shrewsbury High School.

A review of the district’s buildings revealed that Shrewsbury High School was most in need of an upgrade. The high school was designed in 2002 to hold 1,475 students, which is equivalent to 1,250 students by today’s design standards. The school was over capacity by 2006, and at its peak in 2020, the school held close to 1,900 students.

“I think it’s probably the worst-kept secret amongst our board in terms of the [district’s] needs. Enrollment is not changing in the next 10 years… so those needs are going to become greater as the years go on,” said School Committee member Jon Wensky. “It’s the financially responsible next step in this process.”

For the last few years, School Committee members have agreed that Shrewsbury High

School is in need of expansion, echoing those sentiments at the March 13 meeting prior to unanimously approving the SOI.

“[There’s] a trophy case that’s now someone’s office,” School Committee Chair Sandra Fryc said. “You don’t see that very often in a school. To me that was shocking… [Shrewsbury High School] is overcrowded.”

The MSBA, formed in 2008,

Southborough softball league accepting new players, teams

SOUTHBOROUGH – Space is now available for new teams and players for the Southborough men’s softball league.

The league is open to softball players between the age of 18 and 88. Teams play weeknight games at Woodward Elementary School.

If you are interested, email sboromenssoftball@gmail.com.

is funded by one penny of every sales tax. The organization funds up to 80% of eligible costs for school construction projects. Shrewsbury has previously worked with the MSBA to build Sherwood Middle School and the new

Maj. Howard W. Beal Elementary School. Most recently, the district collaborated with the organization to coordinate the window replacement at Oak Middle School.

Although Shrewsbury advanced relatively far in the

MSBA’s selection process last year, the School Committee revealed in December that the project was ultimately not chosen. The MSBA selected 30% — or 19 of 63 — projects from around the state last year, including six high schools, four middle schools and nine elementary schools.

At the time, the School Committee was disappointed in the result, but still recognized they were fortunate to have had other projects approved the first time, and seemed likely to submit another SOI this year.

“Shrewsbury has been incredibly lucky that every time we had asked, the MSBA said yes the first time. That is not the norm, and I wouldn’t want our residents to think there is something terribly amiss,” School Committee member Lynsey Heffernan said in December.

With the School Committee’s unanimous vote, the Select Board now must approve sending a non-binding SOI.

The deadline to apply for the MSBA’s 2024 cycle is April 12.

The School Committee voted to submit a statement of interest to MSBA to expand Shrewsbury High School. (Photo/Laura Hayes)

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

Missing Westborough woman found dead

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

WESTBOROUGH – A Westborough woman who had been reported missing by her family was found dead.

According to Worcester County District Attorney Joseph D. Early Jr.’s office, Olivia Colby was located dead late in the afternoon of March 21. According to his office, the preliminary findings do not suggest

anything suspicious about her death, though the investigation is still ongoing.

Colby, 27, had been last seen at her home on Mountain View Drive in Westborough on March 14, leading her family to seek the public’s help in locating her.

Earlier last week, NewsCenter Maine reported a possible sighting of Colby at a convenience store in Kennebunk.

Find her obituary on page 18.

Marlborough man found guilty of machete attack

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

MARLBOROUGH – A Marlborough man has been found guilty of threatening to commit a crime and mayhem after he attacked a man with a machete.

Abel Hernandez was found guilty by a Middlesex Superior Court jury following a four-day trial.

According to a press release from Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan’s office, on July 9, Hernandez and friends were gathered at his home on

Broad Street to watch a soccer game. An argument reportedly broke out over the game.

According to Ryan’s office, Hernandez swung a machete and struck the victim’s forearm, yelling, “I’m going to kill you.” The victim’s arm was “almost completely severed,” the office said.

After fleeing the scene, Hernandez was apprehended by police near the intersection of Church and Hildreth streets.

According to the DA’s office, Hernandez said during both the investigation and trial that he wasn’t present during the

incident and had been drinking at a restaurant before going to a woman’s house. Ryan’s office said that the investigators were able to disprove his allegations as the restaurant didn’t serve alcohol and wasn’t open the day of the incident.

Following the trial, Middlesex Superior Court Judge Catherine Ham sentenced him to four to five years in state prison for the mayhem charge and three years of probation. During probation, Hernandez must stay away from the victim and witnesses and not possess any dangerous weapons.

Marlborough firefighters battle early afternoon blaze

By Ron Ayotte Contributing Writer

MARLBOROUGH – Firefighters battled a fire in a Mechanic Street home on March 18.

The Marlborough Fire Department was dispatched to a working fire at 142 Mechanic St. in the early afternoon.

Engine 4 and Squad 1 out of Station 2 on Pleasant Street were first due to the fire. Engine 1, Engine 3, Rescue 1 and

Truck 1 responded, along with Car 1, Car 2, Car 3 and Car 5.

Engine 4 crews reported that smoke was showing from the second floor of 142 Mechanic St. Hose lines were quickly put in place and an aggressive interior fire attack kept the fire to the area of origin.

The utilities to the structure were shut down by National Grid and Eversource. The Marlborough Fire Departments Fire Investigation Unit (FIU) and the Marlborough Building Department/Code Enforcement were requested to the scene.

“There were no civilian injuries. One firefighter was transported to Marlborough Hospital for an evaluation of some minor burn injuries,” said Chief Kevin Breen.

The cause of the fire is under investigation. Damage assessments have not been determined.

Olivia

Police report possible swatting incident

By Evan Walsh, Reporter

HUDSON – The Hudson Police Department is investigating a possible swatting incident, according to a press release from the department.

At approximately 12:40 a.m. on March 23, dispatch received a call from someone reporting to have shot a family member. The caller also made threats to harm another family member on Fort Meadow Drive, according to the Hudson Police Department.

The police soon responded to the home and determined the report was false. There was no danger to residents, police said.

The incident is being in -

vestigated as an act of swatting, according to Police Chief Richard DiPersio. Swatting is the practice of making a knowingly false — or “prank” — call to emergency services to bring large numbers of armed police personnel to a particular address. The incident remains under investigation.

“I would like to acknowledge our dispatchers and the officers on the patrol shift for their professionalism and utilizing their training and experience to safely respond to this disturbing call,” said DiPersio. “The safety of our community is our top priority. I would like to assure the community we remain dedicated and prepared to protect and serve the residents of Hudson.”

Man throws brick through Northborough Police Station window

By Evan Walsh, Reporter

NORTHBOROUGH — The Northborough Police Station has been vandalized.

At around 6 a.m. on March 20, a man walked to the Northborough Police Station and threw a brick through the training room window, according to

AS THE SAYING GOES …

a Facebook post from the Northborough Police Department.

No injuries were reported.

The man, who is yet to be identified, fled the scene and headed east on Route 20 toward Bartlett Street.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Det. Chris Buzzell at 508-393-1515.

Marlborough

Thursday, March 14

4:48 p.m. Arrested , Warren Irving Day Jr., 76, of 137 Peltier St., Marlborough, for OUI-liquor or .08%.

Friday, March 15

6:37 a.m. Arrested, Jonathan L. Hernandez, 33, of 22 Ethel Ave., Marlborough, on true warrant.

1:45 p.m. Arrested, Felix Marrero, 45, of 125A Barre Rd., Oakham, for true warrant, shoplifting $250+ by asportation, possess Class E drug.

8:13 p.m. Arrested, Derick Chilin, 35, of 26 Monument Ave., Apt. 2, Marlborough, on true warrants.

Sunday, March 17

12:58 p.m. Arrested , Jiefeng Jiang, 51, of 76 Saint Ives Way, Apt. 21, Marlborough, for disturbing the peace.

Tuesday, March 19

8:14 p.m. Arrested, Jacob Matthew Goldsmith, 34, of 57 Mechanic St., Marlborough, for op MV with license suspended, number plate violation.

Wednesday, March 20

9:07 p.m. Arrested , Solange Alvernaz Chaves Lima, 37, of 616 Boston Post Road East, Apt.

POLICE LOG

3, Marlborough, for true warrant, unlicensed operation of MV.

Northborough

Friday, March 15

12:41 a.m. Arrested, Jonathan W. Anderson, 41, of 34 Green Needles Rd., Littleton, for negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08%, marked lanes violation.

12:49 a.m. Arrested , Ryan Flannery, 28, of 15 Winter St., Northborough, for passing violation, speeding in viol special regulation, negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08%, possess open container of alcohol in MV.

Saturday, March 16

6:37 p.m. Arrested, Mark Anthony Rivera, 27, of 34 Beacon St., Apt. 4L, Worcester, for no inspection sticker, op MV with license suspended.

7:00 p.m. Arrested, Maickeon Dos Passos, 45, of 135 E Main St., Apt. K8, Westborough, on warrant.

11:29 p.m. Arrested , Jeffrey J. Harpin, 58, of 8 Harvest Rd., Shrewsbury, for negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor

or .08%, marked lanes violation.

Monday, March 18

4:03 p.m. Arrested , Paddy O’Brien, 19, of 487 Lincoln St., Marlborough, on warrant.

11:16 p.m. Arrested, Nahetza Rivera, 46, of 52 Piedmont St., Apt. 2, Worcester, on warrant.

Tuesday, March 19

8:18 p.m. Arrested , Farsu J. Cote, 28, of 20 Briarcliff Ln., Holden, for negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08%, possess open container of alcohol in MV.

Thursday, March 21

5:26 p.m. Arrested , Jesus V. Pagan, 25, of 60 Andover St., Apt. 1, Worcester, on warrant.

Shrewsbury

Thursday, March 14

9:44 a.m. Arrested , Anthony Rudolph Tizzano, 36, of 87 S Quinsigamond Ave., Shrewsbury, for unregistered vehicle, oper MV with license suspended/revoked.

1:30 p.m. Arrested , Lisabella Sasso, 49, of 119 Orient St., Worcester, for poss Class B substance subsequent offense, number plate violation, marked

SUPER CROSSWORD

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. The below is a representation of this week’s police log. Some calls lacking severity have been omitted due to space constraints.

COMMUNITY OBITUARIES

The Community Advocate will post obituaries online (and in print, as space allows). Please send information (and a picture if desired) to tracy@communityadvocate.com. Here is a complete list of individual obituaries posted on the Community Advocate website (www.communityadvocate.com).

DEATHS

Arsenault, Randall of Marlborough

Baker-Brown, Rosalie formerly of Southborough

Barry, Tom of Westborough

Casey, Deborah of Shrewsbury

Colby, Olivia of Westborough

Currie, Mary of Stow

Forand, Mary of Northborough

Hedin, William formerly of Marlborough

Herrick, Stewart of Marlborough

Olivia C. Colby, 27

WESTBOROUGH - Olivia Caitlin Colby, of Westborough, passed away on March 21, 2024. Olivia was the daughter of William and Staci (Sleeper) Colby of Westborough.

Olivia “Livy” was raised in Westborough and was a 2014 graduate of Westborough High School.

In addition to her parents, Olivia is survived by her brother Paul Colby, her beloved cat Calvin, her grandmother Yvonne Giombetti, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

She was predeceased by her grandparents William and Sis Colby of Westborough and David Sleeper of Marlborough.

All are welcome to attend a service to celebrate her life at 12 Noon, on Thursday, March 28, in the Pickering & Son Upton Funeral Home. Burial in Southborough Rural Cemetery will be private.

Mary E. Currie, 89

STOW - Mary E. (McMakin)

Currie, 89, of Stow, MA, passed on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at home, surrounded by her loving family. She was the beloved wife of thirty-four years to the late Donald V. Currie, also of Stow, MA.

Mary is survived by her son Brad Currie of Stow, MA; her daughters Pamela Nashawaty

Hunter, Kathryn formerly of Hudson

Kelley, Elaine of Shrewsbury

Kilroy, Pastor Patrick of Shrewsbury

Long, Joseph of Shrewsbury

Pailler, Stephen of North Grafton

Parson, Alice of Hudson

Stepanian, Lutwig of Westborough Taylor, Robert of Shrewsbury

Weihs, Jerome of Shrewsbury

Wilkinson, Erika of Hudson

of Sterling, MA, and Caroline Sharma and her husband Nick of Boxborough, MA; her daughter-in-law Barbara (Wellington) of Framingham, MA; her grandchildren Rachel and Neil Sharma of Boxborough, MA; as well as other relatives and friends. She is predeceased by her husband Donald; her parents Russell and Caroline; and her son Russell Currie.

Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted with arrangements.

Kathryn A. Hunter, 100

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA - Kathryn A. Hunter, a woman with determination to live life to the fullest, died February, 28, 2024, in Charlottesville, VA, after a short illness. She was 100 years old.

She was born to Michael and Mary McNally in Hudson, Massachusetts. She is predeceased by her three siblings: Mary Cesario, Francis McNally, and Ann Buckley. She is also predeceased by her husband of 67 years, William Hunter, and her daughterin-law, Kathryn C. Hunter.

She is survived by her son, Colin Hunter, of Palmyra, VA; daughter, Joan Smith, and sonin-law, Shawn Smith, of Dixmont, ME; grandson, Hunter Smith, and his wife, Amy Smith, great grandson, Zachary Smith, and great granddaughter, Chase Smith, all of Bangor, ME.

Nothing made her happier than bragging about her children, her grandchild and her great grandchildren. Unless it was beautifying her homes, dancing with her husband and laughing at the Sunday funnies. She will be remembered for green thumb creating a tropical paradise wherever she lived.

Dr. Tom A. Barry, 87 WORCESTER/WESTBOROUGH

– Dr. Tom Barry, 87, passed peacefully at home, surrounded by his wife and family on March 12, 2024. He was born in Worcester, June 15, 1936, the son of Thomas F. Barry and Blanche (Erickson) Barry.

Tom is survived by his wife of 63 years Frances Michaleen “Mickie” (Hammill) Barry, his children Thomas Barry Jr. and wife Sue of Millbury, Mary Oliver and husband James of Sutton; James Barry of Worcester; Cathy Cervi and husband James of Spencer and Rebecca Federico of Auburn; fourteen grandchildren, Cameron Barry, Elisha Hourihan, Joshua Oliver, Jessica Alves, Ryan Barry, James Barry Jr., Brittany Hughes, Christopher Barry, Brandy Barry, Cody Barry, Gabby Cervi, Anthony Cervi, Mya Federico, and Thomas Federico, as well as 10 great grandchildren.

Tom is preceded in death by his granddaughter Michaleen O’Connell, his great granddaughter Alexis Alves and daughter in-law Cheryl (Sealey) Barry.

A Mass and Celebration of Life is being planned for June 2024.

Alice J. Parsons, 82

HUDSON - We mourn the passing of Alice Judith Parsons, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and dedicated nurse who departed this world at the age of 82 after bravely battling Alzheimer’s disease. Judy lived a life marked by compassion and kindness.

Judy is survived by her husband, Jack Parsons, her son Donald and his wife, Patricia of San Antonio, TX, John and his wife, Karen of Wellesley, MA, Melissa and her husband, Joe of Hudson, MA and Derek and his wife, Wendy of Westborough, MA. She is the proud grandmother of fourteen grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Judy was predeceased by her parents Donald and Margaret Ganong, siblings Donald Ganong, Richard Ganong, and Carol Guthrie,

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

as well as grandson William Parsons. She is also survived by her brother Robert Ganong of Natick, MA, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins who she adored.

Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted with arrangements.

Rosalie I. Baker-Brown, 95

NORTH YARMOUTH, ME - Rosalie Isabel Davis was born in 1929 in the little village of Woodville, Massachusetts to a family of modest means. She had nine siblings.

Rosalie Baker-Brown is survived by her five children: Dick, Bob and Bill Baker. Teri Conley, Elizabeth Hicks and their spouses as well as nine grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, in-laws and friends from coast to coast. She will be buried in a small, private ceremony.

Morris-Johnston Funeral home of Southborough assisted with arrangements.

Jerome F. Weihs, 78

SHREWSBURY - Jerome F. “Jerry” Weihs, 78, of Shrewsbury, passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, March 10, 2024 at Shrewsbury Nursing & Rehabilitation, with his loving family by his side. He was predeceased by his beloved bride, Lila M. (Wetherell) Weihs, who passed in August of 2023, with whom he shared 30 wonderful years.

He leaves his loving stepchildren, Kathryn M. Goff, of Webster, Paul J. Fontana, of Grafton, and Scott A. Fontana and his wife Maryann, of Worcester; three grandchildren, Christopher P. Goff and his wife Sarah, of Sutton, Nicholas J. Fontana, and Joseph P. Fontana, both of Chepachet, RI; two greatgrandchildren, Miles P. Goff, of Sutton, and Levi J. Fontana, of Chepachet, RI; his siblings, Clarence J. Weihs, Jr. and his wife Susie, Frank Weihs, Theresa Shafer and her husband Marty, and Barbara Cheney and her hus-

band Jim; along with numerous nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews. Jerry was predeceased by his siblings, Richard Weihs, Don Weihs, Ken Weihs, and Mary Paulson.

The Britton-Shrewsbury Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.

Pastor Patrick W. Kilroy, 53

SHREWSBURY - It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our brother, Pastor Patrick “Pat” W. Kilroy, of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, who went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on March 12th, 2024. He died peacefully at home surrounded by his family. He was 53 years old.

His memory, smile and contagious laughter will forever be cherished by his parents, Daniel and Linda Kilroy; his siblings, Thomas Kilroy (Meredith), Susan Kilroy-Ames (Michael Ames), Timothy Kilroy (Stephanie); his nieces, Abigail Ames and Clara Ames; his nephew, Ryan Kilroy; numerous aunts, uncles and cousins, and last but not least his many brothers and sisters in Christ.

Chiampa Funeral Home of Shrewsbury assisted with arrangements.

Randall Arsenault, 62

Marlborough - Randall “Randy” Arsenault, 62, of Marlborough died Saturday, March 16, 2024, at home. He was the son of the late Robert and Ann (Schofield) Arsenault and husband to Kathy Arsenault.

Besides his wife, he is survived by his sons, Scott Arsenault and his wife Chelsea, and Eric Arsenault, his daughter, Holly Arsenault, and his brothers, Keith Arsenault and his wife Joellen, David Arsenault and his partner Donna Hicks, and Bruce Arsenault and his wife Karen.

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

SHREWSBURY

The Town of Shrewsbury Public Facilities Division, 100 Maple Ave., Shrewsbury MA 01545 (“the Town”), invites the submission of responses for Shrewsbury High School Lawn Mowing and Grounds keeping at 75 Cyprus Ave. in the Town of Shrewsbury. The IFB may be obtained by visiting the Town’s website www.shrewsburyma.gov/bids, beginning on Monday March 25, 2024. Responses will be received until 11:00 AM local time, Monday April 8, 2024; by mailing proposals to the Town Manager’s office at 100 Maple Ave., Shrewsbury MA 01545, with submissions clearly marked “SHS Grounds keeping IFB”. All submissions shall comply with the specification issued by the Town of Shrewsbury, including, without limitation, all qualifications and submission requirements. The Town reserves the right to waive any informality in or to reject any, any part of, or all responses in the best interest of the Town. Contract award is subject to appropriation and award by the Shrewsbury Select Board. Any Response submitted will be binding for thirty (30) days subsequent to the time of opening.

The Town of Shrewsbury Water and Sewer Division, 100 Maple Ave., Shrewsbury MA 01545 (“the Town”), invites the submission of responses for Clews Street Sewer Installation Project in the Town of Shrewsbury. The IFB may be obtained by visiting the Town’s website www.shrewsburyma.gov/bids, beginning on Wednesday March 27, 2024. Responses will be received until 11:00 AM local time, April 18, 2024; by mailing proposals to the Town Manager’s office at 100 Maple Ave., Shrewsbury MA 01545, with submissions clearly marked “Clews Street Sewer Installation Project”. All submissions shall comply with the specification issued by the Town of Shrewsbury, including, without limitation, all qualifications and submission requirements. The Town reserves the right to waive any informality in or to reject any, any part of, or all responses in the best interest of the Town. Contract award is subject to appropriation and award by the Shrewsbury Select Board. Any Response submitted will be binding for thirty (30) days subsequent to the time of opening.

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

The Shrewsbury Electric and Cable Operations department, a Massachusetts municipal light plant, cable television and internet access provider of the Town of Shrewsbury (“SELCO”), invites sealed bids from qualified contractors for the following project: Fiber to the

Premises (FTTP) Network Upgrade within a designated node, Phase 2 (the “Project”). A description and details of the Project are provided in the complete Invitation for Bids packet. Filed sub-bids are not required for this Project.

The Project includes all labor, material, and equipment to complete and install a fully functioning Fiber Network and associated installation of the following:

1. Signal transmission lateral fiber optic cable(s) from SELCO’s existing Backbone fiber ring to each of the identified splitter cabinets.

2. Signal distribution lateral fiber optic cable(s) from the identified splitter cabinets to the predetermined fiber access point public right of way locations as indicated on the design drawings.

3. Fiber optic cable splicing along with pre, and post installation testing of all fiber installed throughout the network.

4. SELCO will provide some of the required materials for the Project, a list of which can be found listed in the exhibits to this Bid’s documents.

The Project site locations consist of areas on and along various public and private ways in the Town of Shrewsbury as indicated in the design drawings within this bid complete Invitation for Bids packet.

The complete Invitation for Bids package and/or any addenda may be obtained by emailing the request to Tmaddocks@shrewsburyma.gov.

A Pre bid conference will be held on April 4, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. at 30 Municipal Dr. Shrewsbury MA. Invitations will be provided by SELCO before the end of business on April 2, 2024 to all Registered Bidders via the form on the electronic dashboard; all interested parties are encouraged to attend the onsite meeting. Bids must be submitted in a sealed envelope, plainly marked: “Bid for FTTP Phase 2 IFB #10 Bids will be received at: Town Manager’s Office Shrewsbury Town Hall 100 Maple Avenue Shrewsbury, MA 01545

Bids are due by April 17, 2024 by 2:00 PM, at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud per MGL c. 30, section 39M. All documents received in a bid submittal will be public records.

Note: If delivering in hand and the SELCO office in Town Hall is not open to the public, Bids may be dropped off at a “Bid Box” in front of Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA.

Every bid must be accompanied by a bid deposit in the form of: (1) a bid bond, (2) cash, or (3) a certified check on, or a treasurer’s or cashier’s check issued by a responsible bank or trust company, payable to SELCO. The amount of the bid deposit shall be five per cent (5%) of the total value of the bid.

The selected contractor shall, within 10 days of the notification of contract award, post a security bond for Payment of labor and materials, etc., in accordance with MGL c. 149, section 29, and in the amount of 100% of the total Contract Price.

The Project is subject to the Massa-

chusetts Prevailing Wage Laws and a schedule of prevailing wage rates is included in the complete Invitation for Bids packet. Attention is also called to requirements relating to Workmen’s Compensation and conditions of employment. The selected contractor shall ensure workplace compliance with the Massachusetts COVID-19 Guidelines and Procedures for All Construction Sites and Workers at All Public Works Sites.

SELCO will award a contract for the Project to the lowest responsible and eligible bidder, as such terms are defined in MGL c. 30, section 39M. SELCO reserves the right, however, to cancel this Invitation for Bids, to waive informalities, to reject any and all bids, if any such action is deemed to be in the public interest.

March 28, 2024

Christopher Roy, General Manager -SELCO

HUDSON

LEGAL PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

The Hudson Conservation Commission will hold a Public Hearing relative to the following filing under the Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. Chapter 131, Section 40) as requested by the Hudson Department of Public Works. The owner of the

property is the Town of Hudson. The work is located at Brigham Street and the associated ROW. The proposed project is replacement of a failed culvert and resource area restoration. The Public Hearing will be held via remote video conference on April 4, 2024 at 7:00 pm. Please contact the Conservation Commission Office for information on joining the meeting: phelinek@townofhudson. org or 978-562-2948.

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

MARLBOROUGH

CITY OF MARLBOROUGH CONSERVATION COMMISSION

NOTICE OF INTENT; NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that the Marlborough Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on April 4, 2024, at 7:00 PM at Marlborough City Hall, 140 Main St. on the 3rd Floor Memorial Hall.

The Marlborough Trails Committee & DPW proposes to construct a footbridge across Millham Brook along the Panther Trail near Millham Reservoir (assessors Map 52-2A)

Plans and other information will be available in the Conservation Commission office at City Hall Monday thru Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. All interested persons are invited to the public hearing.

Edward Clancy Conservation Commission Chairman

WORCESTER

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Notice is hereby given by Boulevard Towing of 550 Franklin Street Worcester, MA, pursuant to the provisions of Mass G.L c. 255, Section 39A, that they will sell the following vehicles on or after April 6, 2024 beginning at 10:00 am by public or private sale to satisfy their garage keeper’s lien for towing, storage, and notices of sale. Vehicles are being stored at Boulevard Towing.

1. 2014 Chevrolet Silverado VIN 1GCVKREH5EZ370527

2. 2019 Volkswagen Atlas VIN 1V2LR2CA3KC574899

Signed, Pat Assad, owner Boulevard Towing 3/22, 3/29, 4/5

lanes violation, OUI-drugs, and Mark Andrew Pinkham, 54, of 638 Pleasant St., Apt. 3, Worcester, for possession Class B substance.

Friday, March 15

9:29 a.m. Arrested, Marc J. Letourneau, 64, of 15 Gleason Rd., Shrewsbury, for op MV license suspended.

6:26 p.m. Arrested, Arthur Ricardo Silva, 24, of 16 Stanton St., Apt. 1, Worcester, for oper MV with license suspended/revoked, unregistered vehicle, warrant.

Sunday, March 17

7:38 p.m. Arrested, Jacob M. Santiago, 34, of 41 Gibbs St., Unit 0, Worcester, for disorderly conduct, disturbing the peace, A&B on police officer, resisting arrest, vandalize property, and Jacob M. Santiago, 34, of 41 Gibbs St., Unit 0, Worcester, for disorderly conduct, disturbing the peace, A&B on police officer, resisting arrest, vandalize property.

Monday, March 18

12:23 p.m. Arrested, Meaghan Elizabeth McGovern, 36, of 6 Heronwood Dr., Shrewsbury, on warrant.

Tuesday, March 19

7:12 p.m. Arrested, Mark Perec, 46, of 5 Amber St., Worcester, for OUI liquor, possession Class B substance, marked lanes violation.

Grafton

Tuesday, March 12

4:23 p.m. Arrested, Tyler Frances Houlden, 33, of 94 Wesson St., Grafton, on straight warrant.

Friday, March 15

9:36 a.m. Arrested, Kyle Roger Remillard, 34, of 151 Providence Rd., Apt. N, Grafton, on warrant.

Westborough

Tuesday, March 12

1:50 p.m. Arrested , John A. Olivolo Jr., 35, of 83 Pilgrim Rd., Braintree, on warrant.

Wednesday, March 13

12:55 p.m. Arrested , Michael Thomas Sacco, 38, of 17 Evans Rd., West Boylston, on straight warrant.

Thursday, March 14

7:16 a.m. Arrested , Jane E. Welch, 51, of 62 Neil St., Apt. 1, Marlborough, for OUI-liquor or .98% 2nd offense, negligent operation of motor vehicle, child

endanger while OUI, possess Class E drug (3 cts).

2:20 p.m. Arrested, Jonathan Fernando Barahona Villalbos, 27, of 6 Atwood Ave., Millbury, on straight warrant, unlicensed operation of MV.

Saturday, March 16

10:11 p.m. Arrested , Leland James Karn, 38, of 32 W Main St., Apt. 10, Westborough, for number plate violation, oper MV with license suspended for OUI/ CDL/MVH, unregistered motor vehicle, operate without ignition interlock.

Sunday, March 17

2:09 p.m. Arrested, Renato D. Araujo, 49, of 1612 Worcester Rd., Apt. 407, Framingham, for op MV with license suspended.

7:15 p.m. Arrested , Michael Joseph Federici, 62, of 8 Hadley Ln., Westborough, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, marked lanes violation, wanton destruction of property -$1200.

Monday, March 18

6:26 p.m. Arrested, Manuel Boni Remache, 29, of 1620 Worcester Rd., Apt. 342, Framingham, for op MV with license suspended.

Grafton Boy Scouts to hold bottle drive

GRAFTON – Boy Scout Troop 107 will hold its spring bottle drive on Saturday, April 6, from 9 a.m. to noon. Bring your deposit bottles and cans to the back of the Grafton Municipal Center, 30 Providence Road.

The troop is taking the following precautions for everyone’s safety:

• Please rinse out your bottles and cans ahead of time.

• Please presort your containers: soda cans, beer cans, glass, 1-liter plastic, 2-liter plastic and smaller plastic (“personal size” drinks).

When you arrive at the back parking lot, you will be

directed where to leave your containers. Once you depart, Scouts and parents will then retrieve them for processing.

If you need assistance getting the containers from your car, signal an adult leader. Someone will collect them while you remain in your car.

Scouts and parents will be working in family units, in shifts, with masks and gloves, and maintaining physical distancing at all times.

If you can’t make the drop off, the Boy Scouts can pick up at your home (Grafton only). Contact us at graftonbsatroop107@gmail.com to schedule this, and include

your name and address. Place your clean and presorted empties in a highly visible spot by 8 a.m. on April 6, and the Boy Scouts will do the rest.

The Scouts will hold additional summer and fall bottle drives in 2024.

Money raised from bottle drives supports the Scouts’ campouts, activities, community service projects and routine expenses.

If you are interested in joining Troop 107 or would like more information about troop events, please contact graftonbsatroop107@gmail.com.

Final set of plans, bid documents for dog park sent to foundation

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH – The final set of plans and bid documents for Northborough’s future dog park have been sent to the Stanton Foundation.

According to Planning Director Laurie Connors, the foundation has asked for an additional change to the plan, which is underway.

After nearly two decades of advocacy to bring a dog park to the town, the Planning Board approved plans for it in December. The park will be located on a parcel that is owned by the town on Boundary Street, which was one of four potential sites identified following a feasibility study.

The plans as presented to the Planning Board called for small and large dog areas in the park, which would be separat-

ed by a fence and have a shade shelter with benches. The southern end of the Boundary Street parcel is intended to be a dog run area.

The town had received a grant from the Stanton Foundation for the design of the park. The town is also seeking another grant from the foundation for $250,000 for the construction of the park.

As of March 20, the town had yet to receive final approval from the foundation or word on its grant application. However, during the Planning Board meeting, Connors shared that she was confident that the town would get the grant funding as she has been in contact with the foundation throughout the process, incorporated its suggested modifications and the town received the previous design grant.

Westborough Historical Society presents the history of clothes on April 1

WESTBOROUGH – On Monday, April 1, at 6:30 p.m. at 13 Parkman St., the Westborough Historical Society will present “Pretty and Powerful: The History of Our Clothes” with Charlotte Haller of Worcester State University.

From a T-shirt to a power suit, hijab or uniform, your clothes are invested with both a social and personal mean-

ing. Haller will discuss what fashion tells us about the values of the people wearing it, and how women’s fashion has changed as women have become more powerful in society. Attendees are invited to either wear or bring vintage fashions to this showcase. The society will display vintage dresses and accessories from

its collection, including wedding gowns from 1724 and 1870, a 1900 black satin dress and a 1920s bathing suit.

This program is sponsored, in part, by a grant from the Westborough Cultural Council, a local agency supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency. It is free and open to the public.

Rotary Club to hold recycling fundraiser

SHREWSBURY – The Shrewsbury Rotary Club will be holding a community recycling fundraiser on April 7 between noon to 3 p.m. at Shrewsbury Town Hall.

Proceeds from the fundraiser will go toward the club’s service projects.

Items can be donated for

a single-item fee or $40 for a carload. There will be additional charges for TVs, laptops, printer toner, radios and receivers, fire extinguishers, alkaline batteries, CRT monitors/ flat screen monitors, computer or stereo speakers, household vacuums, car seats and appliances with Freon.

The Rotary Club will not be accepting wood, bulk paper, light bulbs, fluids, Styrofoam, garden hoses, upholstered furniture, mattresses, ceramics, bricks, stones, glass, board games or plastics. There is a book donation bin located near the senior center for people who wish to recycle books.

Visit our website: www.cabinetrehabshop.com or call

Beverly Mazza

Elena Moglia

Jennifer Warkentin

Julia Leblanc

Melissa Stein

Midland-Wachusett League announces 2024 winter all-star selections

REGION – The Midland-Wachusett League has announced the 2024 winter all-stars.

The Midland-Wachusett League includes Algonquin Regional High School, Shrewsbury High School, Marlborough High School, Westborough High School, Hudson High School and 25 other schools throughout Central Massachusetts.

See the full list of all-stars in the Community Advocate coverage area here:

BOYS BASKETBALL

Shrewsbury (Division A)

• Jack Christopher (First Team)

• Jake Pettepit (Second Team)

• Samuel Bachini (Academic)

Algonquin (Division A)

• Patrick Biamou (Second Team)

• Brennan Rice (Academic)

Marlborough (Division B)

• Chris Krueger (Second Team)

• Ryan Dillon (Academic)

Westborough (Division B)

• Nick Bellofatto (First Team)

• Justin McCafferty (First Team)

• Joe Marino (Second Team)

• Simon Bleier (Academic)

Hudson (Division C)

• Jackson O’Brien (Co-MVP)

• Jake Attaway (First Team)

• Ben Hillis (Academic)

GIRLS BASKETBALL

Shrewsbury (Division A)

• Addison O’Connor (First Team)

• Amanda Kalinowski (Second Team)

• Angelina Uttaro (Academic)

Algonquin (Division A)

• Sophie Hjerpe (Second Team)

• Austeja Bazikas (Academic)

Westborough (Division B)

• Annabelle Semeter (First Team)

• Rachel Carpenter (First Team)

• Kate Sams (First Team, Academic)

Marlborough (Division B)

• Bella Miele (MVP)

• Meghan Deneen (First Team)

• Elizabeth Johnson (First Team)

• Rose King (Second Team)

• Alexis Ott (Academic)

Hudson (Division C)

• Sam Collette (First Team)

• Audrey Lenox (Academic)

SWIMMING

Algonquin

• Mina Chung (Co-MVP)

• Elizabeth Walsh

• Maxim Achkinazi

• Satoshi Conway

• Simon Linden

• Maxwell Qi

• Axel Soderquist (All-Star and Academic)

• Branden Yan

• Erion Zaimi

• Kara Lin (Academic) Shrewsbury

• Alice Gayduchkova

• Maria Korneva (All-Star and Academic)

• Laila Kvaracein

• Audrey Liu

• Hannah Reddick

• Joshua Huang

• Vishnu Angiras (Academic)

Westborough

• Caitlyn Reitsma (Co-MVP)

• Katelyn McCarthy (All-Star and Academic)

• Sophie Robinson

• Aryaman Jain (MVP)

• Ben Honan

• Kapish Kaza

• Andrew Li (Academic)

BOYS INDOOR TRACK

Algonquin (Division A)

• Max Brown

• Max Eigen

• Cole Gowdy

• Christopher Kardos

• Joseph Lamburn

• Miles Lipka

• Aiden Ruiz

• Stephen White

Shrewsbury (Division A)

• Matt Anderson

• Darius Gibbons

• Chris Guerin

• Keith Halacy

GIRLS INDOOR TRACK

Algonquin (Division A)

• Katie DiTullio

• Arianna Gentile

• Olivia Guckian

• Audrey Helwig

• Olivia LaBelle

• Tanvi Mehta

• Brigid Purcell

• Sheila Purcell

• Niamh O’Sullivan

• Amelia Bhisitkul (Academic)

Shrewsbury (Division A)

• Hawa Fofana

• Carla Tatiefang Mumbiela

• Emily Boucher (Academic)

Westborough (Division A)

• Regan Sullivan

• Abigail Watson

Marlborough (Division B)

• Ava VanBuskirk

Hudson (Division C)

• Olivia Downin

• Peyton Knott

• Rachael Korowski

• Titi Nguyen

GYMNASTICS

Algonquin

• Kiera Akus

• Bill Porter (Academic)

Westborough (Division A)

• Vamsi Ankalu

• Sebastian Grillo

• David Hilfinger

Marlborough (Division B)

• Andrew Naim

• Parker Rogers

Hudson (Division C)

• Jason Blake

• Dante Venezian

“Except ye become as little children, ye cannot enter the Kingdom of Heaven.”

• Erica DeMichaelis

• Madeline Ho (Senior Gymnast of the Year)

• Maya Regan

Marlborough

• Emily Kratzer

• Eliza Rein

• Lily Robinson

Shrewsbury

• Samantha Johnson

• Lina Scheffel

• Emily Siemssen

• Sarah Sullivan (All-Star and Academic)

• Alex Welch

Westborough

• Imani Curran

• Fiona Smith

• Andrea Lin (Academic)

WRESTLING

Algonquin

• Alexander Franca (132 Weight Class)

• Luca Franca (Academic)

Marlborough

• Marcelo Borges (285 Weight Class)

• Miguel Borges (150 Weight Class)

• Owen Menendez (138 Weight Class)

• Angeles Munoz (185 Weight Class – Female)

I

CHEERLEADING

Algonquin

• Abby Keats (Academic)

• Kaylee Devaney (Athletic)

• Julianna Craver (Athletic)

Colonials hold baseball clinic for Little League peers

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – Shrewsbury ballplayers — young and old — got together at Shrewsbury High School for the love of the game.

On March 9, the Shrewsbury High School baseball team held the last clinic session for 5- to 8-year-old athletes. In partnership with the Shrewsbury Little League, the Colonials held seven total clinics that ran on Saturday mornings from January through March. Roughly 30 youth players — toting gloves, bats and other baseball gear — improved their game over the winter.

“We thought it’d be a great opportunity to get kids in town at a young age to introduce them to baseball, teach them a few things, and most importantly, have fun,” Colonials Head Coach Lee Diamantopoulos told the Community Advocate at the event.

The clinic has proved to be a successful partnership between two town baseball programs. The idea for the clinic, first conceptualized in a Shrewsbury Little League meeting room, was immediately accepted by Diamantopoulos when it was first floated. Both sides recognized that the program was a win-win.

“From their perspective, I think it’s a great way to give back to the community. I think a lot of those kids prob-

ably played Shrewsbury Little League at some point in their life,” said Shrewsbury Little League President Michael DiPiazza. “To me, the thing that I’m excited for is seeing the kids that I’m coaching now continue this for years to come, and seeing those kids grow up to do something like this and continuing that tradition.”

The clinic included four stations: fielding, throwing, baserunning and hitting. For some ballplayers, the clinic served as an introduction to the sport of

baseball. For others, as DiPiazza noted, it serves as additional practice that will raise the level

of play in Shrewsbury’s Little League system.

Indeed, for many high-

school players the clinic was an opportunity to give back. The Shrewsbury athletes spent their Saturday mornings teaching throwing mechanics and showing the youth athletes how to properly swing the bat. Many of the athletes spent the morning crouching down to meet the Little League ballplayers at eye level, placing baseballs on tees and collecting loose equipment.

“I remember when I was younger looking up to the older kids and just thinking they were awesome. Now, we’re the older kids and we’re putting the time back in,” said senior Noah Johnston after straightening out one young player’s swing. “The kids… they’re a blast to work with. They all have great personalities and a lot of energy.”

“For them, it’s giving back. They were in that position once when they were younger. It really comes full circle for them. They teach them some of their skills and different aspects of the game,” Diamantopoulos added.

Shrewsbury High School baseball players spent the morning helping out their younger peers.

(Photos/Evan Walsh)