CA 230120

Two developers pitch their vision for White Cliffs

Shrewsbury Market Basket officially opens its doors

By Caroline Gordon Reporter

SHREWSBURY - Customers with full carts shopped around the new Market Basket during its grand opening on Jan. 13.

“This has been a long time coming. We’re happy and the customers are happy — that’s what matters most,” said Market Basket Operations Manager David McLean.

McLean had anticipated that between 5,000 to 7,000 customers would shop at the grand opening.

According to McLean, on average Market Basket stores welcome between 2,000 to 3,000 customers per day.

He said the management team has been working with the store departments to prepare for this grand opening.

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH - Two of the potential developers of White Cliffs had an opportunity to present their projects before the White Cliffs Committee and answer questions.

In total, Northborough received three responses to its request for proposals for the redevelopment and reuse of White Cliffs.

However, the White Cliffs Committee voted in late December that the proposal submitted by Downeast Residential did not meet the minimum criteria. Downeast Residential had sought to construct between 110 to 160 apartments on the property along with using the existing building for commercial uses.

“We hired 350 new associates, so they have been training over the course of the last couple months. Everything is flowing nice and Market Basket | 18

Stormwater utility proposal to be part of TM warrant

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH - The Department of Public Works will have several articles on this spring’s Town Meeting warrant — two of which will involve establishing an enterprise fund to help maintain the town’s stormwater management system.

Department of Public Works Director Chris Payant said the fund is needed because the town’s stormwater system is aging. There are issues with flooding and water quality, as well as with failing infrastructure.

“There’s always been a funding gap, and it’s increasing,” said Payant during the Se -

Stormwater | 7

PHOTO/CAROLINE GORDON

PHOTO/DAVID BAGDON

Above: Market Basket is located in Edgemere Crossing, Shrewsbury.

Left: A cashier checks out a customer.

Nick Foley presents his project to the White Cliffs Committee.

PHOTO/LAURA

Ladeau Family Dental is excited to announce the addition of Dr. Danielle Currier.

Dr. Ladeau wants you to know that you can expect the same great dental care you have always received over the years.

Dr. Currier had been practicing dentistry in New York before relocating back to Massachusetts to be closer to her family. She now lives with her husband and two daughters in Sudbury.

Dr. Currier is a graduate of Boston College where she received a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Tufts University School of Dental Medicine where she received her dental degree in 2013. Following her time at Tufts, she completed two additional years of training at Weill Cornell Medicine-New York Presbyterian Hospital.

She brings experience in an array of services including cosmetic treatment, implant dentistry, clear aligner orthodontic treatment, root canal therapy, treatment of TMJ disorders, periodontal treatment, and oral surgery. She has received extensive training in treating patients of all ages with complex functional, aesthetic, and medical needs.

Dr. Currier’s emphasis is working with her patients to educate and preserve long-term oral health. Her greatest priority is to build a trusting relationship and to provide a comfortable, caring environment for her patients.

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MARLBOROUGH/HUDSON - Over the past several weeks, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation has had overnight closures of a ramp that carries traffic from I-495

Westborough police reportedly locate sword during traffic stop

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

WESTBOROUGH - A Worcester man is facing charges after police allegedly found a sword in his vehicle during a traffic stop.

Eliezer Rosario Castillo, 18, has been charged with two counts of carrying a dangerous weapon, possession of an open container of alcohol in a motor vehicle, negligent operation of a motor vehicle and speeding.

On Jan. 11 at 9:55 p.m., a Westborough officer was on patrol on Turnpike Road when the he saw a vehicle driving toward his location at 70 miles per hour. The speed limit is 50 mph.

The officer activated his emergency lights to conduct a traffic stop in Speedway Plaza parking lot

Rosario Castillo, who reportedly admitted to speeding, told police that he was driving to Chick-Fil-A to pick up his friends from work, according to court documents filed in Westborough District Court.

As the officers were walk-

ing to their cruisers, one officer allegedly shined his light into the rear of the vehicle and saw a light brown handle between the driver’s seat and center console. According to court documents, when officers asked Rosario Castillo what the item was, he told them it was a sword.

He allegedly told officers that the sword had been at his old house, and when he moved, the sword was placed in his vehicle. Rosario Castillo told police he forgot it was there.

When he was frisked for further weapons, an officer found a “dagger-type” knife that had a blade longer than two inches.

“During our conversation, he admitted the sword was ‘in case we need to protect ourselves’ and when asked about the knife in his pocket, he stated ‘that little one is just to protect myself,’” police wrote in court documents.

Officers reportedly found an open beer bottle.

He was arraigned in Westborough District Court on Jan. 12 where a bail of $2,000 surety bond or $200 cash was set.

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

An Aromatic Varietal

Viognier (VEE-ohn-yay) is a white wine grape that was originally grown in small areas of the Rhône Valley in France. Grapes were crafted into varietal wines that became pleasant alternatives to other more common white wines. As the popularity of Viognier wines increased, so too did the plantings of these grapes expand in France and to other regions of the world. Today there are many sources for this unusual apricot- and floralscented wine that is full-bodied even when unoaked and dry without being mouth-puckering. Viognier is delicious sipped with appetizers but also has the ability to pair well with fuller-flavored meat or fish main courses such as chicken thighs, swordfish, tuna steaks, and lobster.

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Westborough Inn’s license renewed for 2023

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH - It was close, but the Westborough Inn at 4 Boardman Street has started the new year with a clean slate.

After several inspections and re-inspections the final week of December, the inn’s innkeeper/lodging house permit has been renewed.

“The Westborough Inn was able to comply with the requirements and therefore was granted their 2023 license renewal prior to January 1,” said Town Manager Kristi Williams.

During the Select Board meeting on Dec. 27, Justin O’Riordan, who joined the inn as regional operations manager that month, apologized for the slow process of renewing its innkeeper/lodging house permit.

He cited staff turnaround, including a manager who left due to health issues, as part

of the reason why the renewal process was delayed.

The inn, with a total of 28 rooms, currently has 14 rooms unavailable because of renovations to its bathrooms. The permit was issued in July.

O’Riordan said that construction was almost done, and the rooms are getting certified. He added that four out of the 14 bathrooms are

done and awaiting inspection.

The town’s building and fire departments conducted inspections on Dec. 28. According to the Fire Department’s inspection report, the basement common room was impassable because of mattresses; the fire alarm and sprinklers also failed inspection.

The inn passed re-inspec-

After a flurry of inspections and re-inspections the last week of December, the Westborough Inn was granted an innkeeper/lodging house permit for 2023.

the bathroom shower tubs and stalls as well as new vanities and tile. This permit was issued in July.

On July 20, Westborough Inn applied to have its plumbing inspected.

On Feb. 4, there was an application to have work done on 14 bathrooms, including painting bathroom shower tubs and stalls, as well as new vanities and tile. The permit was issued on July 7. The inspection for the rough plumbing was approved on Dec. 27. The town has yet to sign off.

tion by the building and fire departments on Dec. 29.

List of applications

According to the town’s Building Department, the Westborough Inn filed several applications in 2022.

In February, the inn applied to have work done on 14 bathrooms. This included painting

After applying for an electrical inspection, the inn passed inspection, and the town signed off on Sept. 21.

According to information filed with the Better Business Bureau, the inn has been open since 1980. East American Inn has been the owner since September 2020.

For information on the Westborough Inn, visit www. westboroughinn.com.

PHOTO/MAUREEN SULLIVAN

By Evan Walsh Contributing Writer

In front of hundreds of fifth- and sixthgraders at Sherwood Middle School, Shrewsbury High School sophomores Hardika Patel and Peyton Duke shared stories of acceptance and inclusion with their younger peers.

Patel, who is a member of the SHS Trivia Team and a peer mentor in the school’s United Sound program, discussed the importance of creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels accepted.

“I cannot stress just how important it is to create an inclusive world… [the world] has so many problems, and it’s our job to come together as a community and build these bonds between people,” Patel said.

Duke, who is an active participant in the school’s Unified Sports program and also plays field hockey and lacrosse, recalled her experience with Jenny, a Shrewsbury High

School classmate who has Down Syndrome.

“Throughout the season, I felt a close friendship with Jenny,” Duke said. “We had a special pre-game handshake, and we always sat on the bus to away games together… she took the time to teach me sign language on the bus so I’d have the ability to communicate

with other athletes who are non-verbal.”

Duke explained how her friendship with Jenny inspired her to do more. Last field hockey season, Duke worked with the coaches to develop an assistant manager position for Jenny.

“Jenny led our team in highfives and fist bumps after each

home game… she stormed the field with us when [the varsity team] won… she was one of us… you could see it on the field and definitely feel it if you’re part of the team,” Duke explained.

Throughout the speech, Duke emphasized how easy and impactful being inclusive and accepting can be.

“Sometimes it’s a word of encouragement, introducing yourself to someone new, or a smile… that leaves a lasting impression. Small acts of inclusion are powerful and you never know which act will be that magical moment for someone else. Every person in this room has the ability to create this magic. [Everyone] has the power to make someone feel seen, heard, included, and accepted,” she said.

In a statement given to the Community Advocate, Assistant Superintendent for Community Partnerships and Well-Being Jane Lizotte noted how Patel and Duke “exemplify the core values of our school communities by meaningfully seeking ways to contribute positively to the lives of others.”

“They make a difference each and every day. Their individual and collective commitment to make the world a better place through teaching and learning is absolutely phenomenal,” she said.

Hardika Patel encourages middle school students to be inclusive. Sherwood Middle School students eagerly listen to the students’ presentation.

PHOTOS/EVAN WALSH

Farming history presents itself on Northborough’s Old Farm Trail

Left: The four-acre back field on the Old Farm Trail in Northborough is still used for current-day crop production.

By Alexandra Molnar History Columnist

NORTHBOROUGH - A few key clues found along the 1.1-mile Old Farm Trail, constructed in 2005-2007, reveal the history of the area before it was a recreational hiking path.

Since the early 1700s, the 100 acres or so to the east of where the trail currently stands was farmland. Most recently it was Stirrup Brook Farm, a dairy farm operating from the 1930s to 1956. Milk production ceased at that time, but the family still had heifers until 1976.

Just a few steps along the trail from the Main Street trailhead, a stone wall wends its way through the woods. Where brambles and low brush grow, it was once open pasture where around 18 cows spent their days grazing.

Right: View of the wetlands from the Beaver Point Picnic Area on the Old Farm Trail in Northborough.

Allan Bezanson, who grew up at Stirrup Brook Farm (owned by the Haitsma family), recalls running home from school to go fishing at Stirrup Brook before performing farm chores.

The stone wall marked the boundary of the Haitsma property, but that didn’t stop Bezanson and his friends from skiing down the sizeable hill that looms to the west. The cedar trees that grew there made excellent fence posts, and the

field area further along, which the town mows every few years, made for a thrilling sledding hill.

The field was also leased by Bigelow Nurseries for some time when the farm sold its milk business in 1956, and the nursery cultivated trees that were eventually planted along the Boston Greenway. One can glimpse one of the original farm houses, built in the early 1700s is still privately owned, as you

take a sharp right along the field after emerging from the woods. Returning to the woods, after ascending a short hill, a right turn takes you to an old farm road, now the continuation of the Boroughs Loop Trail, a 33mile regional trail. Then, a left turn brings you to additional features that remind you of the land’s farming history. A hay loader that was left there in the 1980s by Bezanson’s stepbrother, Donald Haitsma.

And ― among other cars — sits a 1953 Oldsmobile 88 that was parked there, also by Donald, as its final resting spot when its transmission failed in 1960. From there, the four-acre back field is the final feature that brings the land full circle to its farming roots. The fertile soil is used for current-day crop production, in recent years leased by Berberian’s Farm, which has grown squash, corn, and peppers.

PHOTOS/ALEXANDRA MOLNAR

Stormwater utility proposal to be part of TM warrant

lect Board meeting on Dec. 13.

He cited not only aging infrastructure, but also state mandates and capital improvements as reasons he believes a user fee is needed.

Payant and Woodard + Curran, a design and engineering firm specializing in water and environmental projects, have been working to identify priorities within the system; how much those priorities could cost; and how those costs could be handled.

Debris gathers on top of the grate to an inlet on Fisher Street.

Edinberg added that the cost of not making a change could lead to more extensive — and expensive — repairs down the road.

Several communities in the area have adopted stormwater utility fees, including Franklin and Shrewsbury. Franklin charges a flat fee, while Shrewsbury uses a

tiered system.

Current plans call for the DPW to provide a fact sheet around the third week of January, with at least two public meetings scheduled for February.

Annual Town Meeting will convene on Saturday, March 25, at the high school auditorium.

Over several meetings with town boards, the outline of the proposed stormwater utility fund has started to come into focus.

Similar to water and sewer, it would treat stormwater management as a utility. The establishment of an enterprise fund is estimated to raise $1.5 million annually.

Town officials have discussed using a tiered-rate approach for single-family residential properties and a multiplier approach for all other properties.

Further, officials have said that implementing this fund will be a process, and both town leaders and residents will get the opportunity to review information and make decisions.

The proposed articles would authorize the town to charge a fee for stormwater by establishing a bylaw and to establish an enterprise account and appropriate funding to implement a stormwater utility.

Establishing a stable source of funding “is the way we want to move forward,” said Select Board member Allen Edinberg.

“It’s a matter of being more strategic,” he said.

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There’s always been a funding gap, and it’s increasing.

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Annual MLK celebration is a call to become more aware

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH - It was a celebration, but it was also a call to challenge.

During the fifth annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration on Monday, Jan. 16, at Westborough High School, keynote speaker Ron Jones spoke of the need to become more aware of what’s going on in the country.

“We’re at a turning point right now,” said Jones who is the executive director of Dialogues with Dignity. “We can never go back … social issues have reached a critical mass.”

Instead of using hate and intimidation to bring issues forth, Jones uses love and listening.

“It’s not about changing minds, it’s about softening hearts,” he said.

Jones reminded the audience that when King was assassinated in April 1968, “he was the most hated man

in America” because King wanted radical changes to American society, especially when it came to poverty.

“We need to remember that doing the right thing is not always comfortable,” said Congressman James McGovern (MA-02).

McGovern recalled going to Selma, Ala., several times with the late John Lewis, a member of Congress who marched with King in the 1960s.

“He always said that we should be good troublemakers,” said McGovern.

The event also featured an a cappella performance by Ball in the House (featuring Westborough High alum Kevin Cincotta-Guest), children’s activities and information on Westborough Connects.

“I’m happy that we’re back in person,” said Kelley Petralia, executive director for Westborough Connects. The celebration was virtual over the past two years because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The event was co-spon -

sored by the Westborough Interfaith Clergy, Westborough Public Schools, Central MA Connections and Westborough Connects.

Partial grant funding was provided by the Westborough Cultural Council, a local agency supported by the Mass. Cultural Council.

Other events

Children and their caregivers are invited to participate in Westborough Connects’ third StoryWalk at Hastings Elementary School. The story, “What the Road Said” by Cleo Wade, will be brought to life through a StoryWalk display sponsored by community member Nuray Wallace and home builder, Tolls Bros.

The StoryWalk is self-led and will be accessible through the winter months.

Participants are also encouraged to visit Westborough Public Library’s MLK Day book displays during the month of January and Westborough’s Little Free

Anti-Racist Library sponsored by WeCARE on the grounds of the YWCA Westborough, 15 Grove St.

As a follow up to this fifth annual MLK Jr. Day, participants are invited to participate in a “Journey Mapping Exercise” hosted by Central MA Connections in Faith and

Westborough Connects on Saturday, Jan. 28, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Westborough High School Library. Through a small group format, adult and adolescent attendees will have the opportunity to explore King’s dream and how we can join the journey towards equality.

Assabet Valley students receive Adams scholarships

MARLBOROUGH - Superintendent Ernest F. Houle and Principal Mark Hollick have announced that 72 seniors at Assabet Regional Vocational Technical High School have received a John and Abigail Adams Scholarship.

This scholarship is available to students who:

• Score in the advanced category in assessment tests in English language arts, mathematics or STE (biology, chemistry, introductory physics or technology/ engineering).

• Score in the proficient or advanced category on the remaining two tests.

• Have a combined MCAS score on these assessments that ranks in the top 25 percent in their school district.

work can bring rewards.” The following local Assabet seniors have earned an Adams Scholarship:

Hudson: Wyatt Allaby, Keegan Antelman, Krista Avila, Ethan Bushey, Keegan Cabral, Payton Cabral, Lucas Cerqueira, Rachele Connor, Michael Ferro, Benjamin Lopes, Selena Melo, Tatiana Resendes

Marlborough: RA’Kaiya Alexis, Luke Barrett, Eduardo Carey, Ryan Culkin, Cassidy Driscoll, Erin Dwinells, Eric Edwards, Keira Gallant, Emanuel Gentile-Magoon, Zachary GentileMagoon, Thomas Healy, Thais Lopes, Anthony Martinez, Laysa Mesquita, Tye Oulette, Thomas Pollard, Jajuan Santos, Thomas Silva, Kanata Tanaka, Jamison Taylor, Regina Wilkie

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Scholarship recipients are granted four years of free tuition at Massachusetts state colleges and universities. Students who receive the Adams scholarship must complete their undergraduate program in four years or less and maintain a cumulative 3.0 grade-point average.

“An Adams scholarship is a significant achievement for our students, who carry a full workload in their career pathway along with their comprehensive studies,” said Hollick. “Our scholarship winners show by example that hard

Northborough: Devon Bair, James Clark, Crystal Lindquist, Muhammad Sall, Mark Stamoulis

Shrewsbury: Daniel Dupont, Shayne Goldsmith, Ryan Griffin, William Jones

Southborough: Heather Grimm, Ryan Ponte, Jacob Prior

Westborough: Berta Olivia Alvarado, Henry Christensen, Angelica LePoer, Mileidy Sarai Linares Urizabal, Andrew Monaco, Sofia Ramirez-Granick, Rachel Sommerville, Zachary Webster

Some of the 72 students from Assabet Valley who have been awarded John and Abigail Adams scholarships.

Community meeting on Haze of Grafton set for Jan. 26

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

GRAFTON - A community outreach meeting for the proposed Haze of Grafton marijuana business will be Thursday, Jan. 26, at 6 p.m. via Zoom.

The proposed location is 135 Westboro Road in North Grafton — the same site as Pecorino’s and Wicked Twisted Pretzels.

According to Colonel Boothe, the applicant, the reason for the meeting is “due to the length of time since my last community meeting and the date that I submitted my marijuana product manufacturing application to the Cannabis Control Commission.

“Essentially if my license application is submitted more than six months since my community outreach meeting, then I need to host the meeting again,” said Boothe.

Background

In March 2020, the Planning Board approved CBJD

There will be a community outreach meeting for the proposed Haze of Grafton to be located at 135 Westboro Road.

Holdings LLC’s application for a special permit and site plan approval for the renovation of a 10,000-square-foot space for a registered marijuana dispensary, retailer and transporter.

In March 2022, the Planning Board voted to allow minor exterior adjustments. That May, CBJD Holdings applied for a modification of the special permit and site plan approval to add marijuana

product manufacturing. A public hearing was held on May 23. The application was approved on June 13.

The link for the Zoom meeting is tinyurl.com/HazeOfGrafton.

There will be an opportunity for the public to ask questions at the end of the Zoom meeting.

For any questions about the meeting, email ColonelBoothe@gmail.com.

Northborough Police Department gains two new officers

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH - Two new officers will be joining the Northborough Police Department.

“[It’s] always an enjoyable opportunity when it comes to appointing new police officers and watching people embark on their career,” said Chief William Lyver during the Jan. 9 Board of Selectmen meeting.

During the meeting, the selectmen appointed James Anderson and Matthew York as full-time officers.

Anderson, who lives in Medway, received his Bachelor of Science in criminal justice from Lasell University, and interned with the Waltham Police Department while he was a student. York is a native of Southampton and earned his criminal justice degree from Nichols College.

Lyver said Anderson and York completed all of the necessary requirements, including their drug screening, physical exams and physical ability assessments.

“They’re both ready to go,” he said.

Both have secured seats in the Municipal Police Training Committee Lynnfield academy beginning on Jan. 30. Lyver estimated that they may join the ranks of the department in late June or early July.

“Thank you for this opportunity. I’m looking forward to it,” said Anderson.

York echoed his sentiments.

“I’m more than excited to begin,” he said.

“We’re very excited to have you. It is hard to find such qualified candidates. I know Chief Lyver looks for the best of the best, and we’re very happy,” said Chair Mitch Cohen.

PODIATRY CLINIC OF CENTRAL MASS!

2022

Two developers pitch their vision for White Cliffs

White Cliffs | from page 1

Consultant Brett Pelletier noted that Downeast did not include a pro forma in their proposal.

“They made some vague references to approximate costs and things like that within their narrative, but it didn’t tick the box of providing feasibility or financial projects, and specifically we asked for a pro forma,” said Pelletier.

Metro West Collaborative Development

The first developer who presented on Jan. 12 was Metro West Collaborative Development. As part of their proposal, Metro West Collaborative is proposing to construct 52 units of intergenerational rental housing.

“We applaud the efforts of the town to save this historic resource,” said Executive Director Caitlin Madden. “We really see an affordable housing proposal as an opportunity to leverage public resources to help in the preservation of this historic structure while also adding the additional community benefit of providing much-needed affordable housing.”

As Senior Real Estate Manager Derek Hansen described it, the centerpiece of their proposal is the historic preservation of the mansion. He said that any of the architectural elements that they touched would be under the standards set by the Secretary of the Interior’s standards for the rehabilitation of historic properties.

The additions to the mansion would be removed, and the first floor of White Cliffs would be used as community access space and potentially the management office.

Metro West Collaborative is proposing to develop the upper floors into units and construct a new three-story addition with a covered walkway connecting the two.

“We have located it here partially because the site is relatively flat here, but also we felt it would be the least impactful on the site and we wanted to maintain views of White Cliffs,” said Micaela Goodrich, who is a job captain with Davis Square Architects.

Metro West Collaborative is projecting a total development cost of approximately $24 million.

Historic Artifact Preservation Organization

The second developer who presented was Historic Artifact Preservation Organization, who is in a development partnership with Nashoba Valley Building Services and Container Built Group.

As part of this proposal, they are seeking to use White Cliffs as collaborative workspace and an event venue while also constructing a scaleddown replica of the original greenhouse that was on the property, which would be able to accommodate between 175 and 200 people.

“The reason why we presented this opportunity to the town is our view is that while there are many options for the property, that utilizing it in terms of creating more residential units isn’t the best use and really defeats the purpose of the town to acquire the property and use as a benefit to grow both the local economic community as well as preserve beyond just the building, but preserve the grounds as a whole,” said Nick Foley.

The first floor of the mansion would be used as a community gathering space and meeting rooms. Single- and doublesuite offices, open workspaces and meeting rooms would be on the second and third floor. Foley said they are exploring installing shops in the base -

ment as well as using it as part of the collaborative workspace. The developers are also ey-

ing installing sustainable accessory units on the property, which could be leased as art studios, food service shops, makerspace, remote offices and a brewery.

Foley said they also envision returning the property to a wedding and event venue, projecting to hold two events a month with weddings “heavily loaded” during wedding

Starting at $27 per person

season.

As part of the project, the developers intend to install a public walking trail around the perimeter of the property and public flower gardens as well as a standard greenhouse in addition to the replica. Foley said they have also mapped out an area for a community pavilion, garden and public picnic area.

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I hate it when people accuse me of lollygagging when it’s quite clear I am dillydallying.

The White Cliffs mansion looks over Main Street.

Caitlin Madden presents Metro West Collaborative’s plan for White Cliffs.

“ We applaud the efforts of the town to save this historic

resource.

Caitlin Madden Executive Director

PHOTOS/LAURA HAYES

By Caroline Gordon Reporter

SHREWSBURY - A transportation and engineering firm has concluded that the parking demand for the proposed Beal Commons project would be met with the 126 spaces dedicated to the project.

During the Jan. 5 Planning Board meeting, the developers of the Beal Commons project, Civico Greenly, presented both this parking feasibility study and site plan changes.

“Before the next meeting, you will be offered a site plan that reflects many of these changes. We’re hopeful that any other comments that come up tonight can also be integrated,” said Civico Greenly’s Taylor Bearden.

Site plan changes

According to the plans, Beal Commons would be made up of 55 apartments and 7,700 square feet of retail space. The developers plan to preserve the current memorial in front of the former

Beal School, and there would be a 0.7-acre public park.

Laura Knosp, who is a landscape architect for the project, said the initial designs aimed to use the World War I memorial to set some of the dimensions of the project so they wouldn’t “squeeze too close” to it.

However, after speaking with town staff, she said Civico Greenly decided to incorporate a “more generous sidewalk” along the curb edge to provide a buffer between the cars and pedestrians.

Additionally, Civico Greenly moved the street trees to the edge of the curb, added an additional entrance to the residential portion of the site, reduced the size of the residential terrace and incorporated a path between the parking lot and building.

Developers present parking feasibility study

Civico Greenly’s plans call for 146 parking spaces. This will include 126 spaces for the development, and 20 public

parking spaces. The developers have proposed an additional 10 public parking spaces adjacent to Hascall Street.

According to Bearden, the transportation engineering and planning firm McMahon Associates conducted a parking feasibility study and concluded that the parking demand will be met with the 126 parking spaces for the project.

According to the study, the weekday morning demand would be 92 spaces, the weekday night demand would be 108 spaces and the Saturday midday demand would be 127 spaces.

Planning Board member Purna Rao asked the developers how they would ensure that the public spaces would not be occupied by the residents of Beal Commons.

Bearden said the Beal Commons residents would have stickers on their vehicles. This means that if they were to park in public spaces, police officers would know they are residents and would tell them to move.

Director of Planning and Economic Development Christopher McGoldrick, who presented town center plans and town parking reports from previous years, said there would be a net increase of 53 parking spaces. He noted that 30 spaces would be dedicated to public parking.

“The proposed public parking should be designed to mitigate the potential impacts of the specific site, which we find this project does,” McGoldrick said.

He said that overall the parking demand levels are estimated to be lower than what the existing parking facilities can accommodate, which leaves spaces available.

Furthermore, McGoldrick said that there is 40% utilization of the downtown public parking spaces during the peak hours, which are afternoons.

“This shows that there is a significant underutilization of parking in the town center,” he said.

McGoldrick added, “It is

important that any single project isn’t required to provide for the parking needs of the entire town center.”

However, some residents voiced their concerns.

Jim McBlain raised concerns about the parking data, saying that he traveled through the center daily and never saw a vacant spot. Gale Pews voiced concerns about the lack of handicapped parking. She argued that there was already a lack of public handicapped parking spots in the town center.

“So, what’s the story? Where is the handicapped parking? Have you considered it, with all of the new parking places? And, is it going to be convenient for handicapped people?” she asked the developers.

McGoldrick explained that handicapped parking will be a requirement for the project and will be discussed during the next meeting, which is scheduled for Jan. 19 after the Community Advocate goes to print.

Agility equipment, water stations among potential amenities at Northborough dog park

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH - Residents had a chance to take a closer look at the details of a proposed dog park off Boundary Street on Jan. 10.

This marked the second community meeting regarding the dog park, and the town and its consultants sought feedback on the 75% construction documents.

At the first community meeting, town staff and its consultants Weston & Sampson presented four potential locations for a dog park. In December, the Board of Selectmen gave the thumbs up for the dog park to be located on a site on Boundary Street.

At that time, Director of the Department of Public Works Scott Charpentier said that the town had purchased the land in the 1960s with intention of building a sanitary sewer treatment plant. However, the Department of Public Health later directed the town to instead discharge to a Marlborough plant.

“The concept and the main idea of the dog park is to embrace the wood area, the existing conditions and to maintain as many trees as we can,” said Landscape Designer Jeanette Cantu.

The dog park would include small and large dog areas with a pavilion in between. Combined, it would make up approximately 1.2 acres, which would be fenced in with a five-foot tall chain link fence.

According to the presentation, the town is proposing a number of amenities, including benches, trash receptacles, leash posts, a waste station and a water filler station on each side. Within the dog park, there would be boulders that could be used as seating for the owners or items on which the dogs can play.

Cantu also presented potential agility equipment for the dogs, such as weave posts and hoop jumps.

There would be 10 parking spaces. However, Cantu noted that they are proposing to have an overflow lot as well.

The presented design shows stone dust as the current base bid surface with wood chips in the more natural areas of the park.

However, team leader Johnathan Law presented the alternate surface K9 Grass, which describes itself as a “synthetic grass surface for dog environments.”

Law noted that K9 Grass would be

the most expensive to install compared to the stone dust or other alternatives like wood chips, engineering wood fiber or gravel.

However, he said K9 Grass would involve less maintenance and is accessible under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

According to Charpentier, the a construction bid package would be put out that would meet the budget for the project. However, he said that the bid could contain items that would be “bid alternatives,” meaning if the bidding environment is aggressive or costs come down, the project could accommodate amenities such as the K9 grass.

Like all of Northborough’s recreation facilities, the dog park would be open dawn to dusk.

This project is currently before the Community Preservation Committee for funds for the construction of the dog park, and the town is seeking grant funds for the project.

If everything is awarded, final design and permitting would occur over the summer with construction bids shortly thereafter. Weather permitting, construction may begin in the early fall and wrap up in the spring with plans to open it in the late spring or early summer.

This is an aerial rendering of the proposed dog park in Northborough off Boundary Street.

SCREENSHOT/NORTHBOROUGH REMOTE MEETINGS

Southborough police receive grant for body-worn cameras

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

SOUTHBOROUGH - The Southborough Police Department will soon be able to purchase bodyworn cameras, thanks to a grant.

Sen. Jamie Eldridge (D-Acton), whose district includes Southborough, announced that the department was awarded the grant by the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security’s Office of Grants and Research.

Specifically, Southborough received $78,547.98. Chief Ryan Newell said the grant would fully-fund the purchase of the body-worn cameras along with the associated equipment, camera set-up and required software to run the program.

It’s part of the FY23 BodyWorn Cameras Grant Program, and Southborough is one of 32 departments to receive funding. A total of $2,494,752 was awarded.

“There are many Massachusetts police departments who are eager to take this important step in police reform,

but lack the funding to do so,” said Eldridge. “I’m honored to announce this grant to the Southborough Police Department to help establish their own body-worn camera program, which will ensure that officers are held accountable, and will help strengthen the relationship between the officers and the Southborough community.”

On why Southborough decided to move forward on a body-worn camera program, Newell said he believed that the footage captured during interactions of the officers and community members will provide “better documentation” to confirm the nature of events and support accounts by both officers and residents.

He noted that body-worn cameras led to faster resolution of citizen complaints and lawsuits that allege excessive force and other forms of misconduct.

“Investigations of cases that involve inconsistent accounts of the encounter from officers and citizens are often found to be ‘not sustained’ and are sub-

sequently closed when there is no footage nor independent or corroborating witnesses,” Newell said.

According to Newell, studies have noted decreases in citizen complaints lodged against officers who are wearing bodyworn cameras and decreases in use of force incidents by law enforcement.

“I believe that instituting this program is a big first step in transparency and providing even more confidence that our officers are maintaining professional standards,” Newell said.

According to Eldridge, every department that applied for the grant received funding.

Newell said he has worked with the union to develop an

agreed-upon Body-Worn Camera policy. He said the department is moving forward to purchasing and then implementing the program with the help the grant.

He projected that the department would roll out the program, including training and implementation, in the first couple of months if 2023.

Search for new Westborough town planner underway

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH - Following the announcement of the retirement of Town Planner Jim Robbins, the search for a new town planner is underway. During its meeting on Jan. 3, the Planning Board approved the formation of a seven-member search committee. Members will include two from the Planning Board, including Hazel Nourse; Lester Hensley, former member of the Planning Board and cur-

rent member of the Master Plan Implementation Committee; Town Manager Kristi Williams; and Fred Lonardo, Community Development director. Select Board member Patrick Welch will be the board’s representative.

According to Williams, the job description will be posted soon, with a goal of having the search committee interview at least two finalists in March.

Robbins, who has been town planner for 30 years and recently announced his retirement, is scheduled to step

down in late March.

Stone Inc. plans approved

The Planning Board approved a special permit for Stone Inc. to convert a building on 80 Turnpike Road into a retail site for stone.

This would include stone cutting, which would take place inside the building.

Among the conditions for the special permit, Stone Inc. will install sound insulation and keep the back loading bay closed when not in use.

Michelle Gillespie, REALTOR® MEGA AGENT

Direct Line: 508-934-9818 michelle@michellegillespie.com www.michellegillespie.com 10 Main St, Northborough #1 Realtor in Northborough*

Are you ready to sell?

We all remember how robust the real estate market was for 2022. This year has kicked off with similar conditions such as limited inventory and high buyer demand. While interest rates did increase this past fall, they have shown signs of stabilizing, along with lenders offering a variety of financing options. With buyers looking for new homes to purchase, now is a great time to join many other happy sellers and profit from this real estate market.

Now’s the Time!

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

Sellers Needed for 2023

By Michelle Gillespie

The 2023 real estate market has arrived with some concerns about how the housing market will perform this year. We had three great years. Sellers have found their homes appreciated in value upwards of 30% or more in the past two years and particularly in 2022. As a leader in our real estate community, I believe the market will continue to stay strong but not quite like the past two years. The reason I believe our housing market will stay strong is the lack of inventory that continues to exist year after year in our area, coupled with the lack of inventory in the rental market and increased rental prices. Home values significantly appreciated in the past year and as a top producing realtor, I know there are still many buyers looking for new properties.

So, what does this mean to you as a seller? Less competition, good sale prices, and a large buyer pool! There is no doubt your house will sell this year; it is just how high it will sell for and that is where I can help you. Let us look at the current inventory numbers available in our surrounding communities and compare to the last two years.

January 11, 2021 January 11, 2022 January 11, 2023

Single Family Homes Single Family Homes Single Family Homes

Northborough 11 homes 4 homes 4 homes

Westborough 7 homes 2 homes 5 homes

Marlborough 8 homes 8 homes 9 homes

Southborough 14 homes 5 homes 3 homes

Shrewsbury 15 homes 14 homes 16 homes Hudson 4 homes 3 homes 7 homes

A deeper dive into the most popular price ranges within these communities shows the limited inventory in various price ranges.

1/11/2023 1/11/2023 1/11/2023 1/11/2023 1/11/2023 Homes for Sale Homes for Sale Homes for Sale Homes for Sale Homes for Sale $300K - $500K $500K - $600K $600K - $700K $700K - $999K Over $1 million

Northborough 0 2 0 1 1 Westborough 0 1 0 2 2 Marlborough 2 3 0 3 1 Southborough 0 0 0 1 2 Shrewsbury 2 2 3 4 5 Hudson 1 0 0 1 5

The reasons why it’s the perfect time to list your home:

• Homeowners have gained a significant amount of equity in their home since 2020.

• Capitalize on these market conditions with the equity you have built in your home.

• Buyers will compete for your home due to limited inventory.

• The supply of homes for sale both regionally and locally is at record low numbers which means many more buyers competing for your home.

• Buyers will compete for updated and modernized homes.

• Consider downsizing from your large home and maximize your equity.

• Or move up to a larger home with the equity you have established in your current home.

• With a rental market that has limited inventory there are a significant number of first-time homebuyers.

• Market conditions have never been so positive for sellers.

• Conditions are in your favor – Motivated Buyers + Limited Homes For Sale = 2023 a Great Year to Sell.

Keller Williams Pinnacle Metrowest 114 Turnpike Road, Suite 201 Westborough, MA 01581

For business professionals, creating meaningful relationships and connections that can support and help grow their business is a nonnegotiable.

The Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of Commerce serves businesses of all sizes and industries and provides numerous networking opportunities to help business make those important connections for their business.

One of the best ways the Chamber helps facilitate business connections is our “Speed Networking for Business”

UPCOMING EVENTS:

1/25/2023

2/14/2023

event. The event is a business version of speed dating and offers an extremely time-efficient and effective way for generating professional contacts.

The Chamber’s speed networking format makes it easy for business professionals to meet people, introduce their business, exchange business cards, and walk away with contact information from the other business professionals you will meet. During the event, attendees will participate in multiple rounds of table networking to meet as many people as possible in 90 minutes. This event helps opens doors to potential growth opportunities and valuable partnerships with other business participants.

2/28/2023 | SUPER BOWL NETWORKING EVENT 5:15-7:30 pm, Apex Entertainment Center, Marlborough

Business professionals from Worcester to Boston attend the event. Speed Networking will be held on Thursday, January 26, 2023, from 7:15-9:30 am, at the Doubletree Hotel, 5400 Computer Drive in Westborough. Business professionals can register to attend on the Chamber’s website at www.corridornine.org.

The Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of Commerce is a catalyst for business growth, a convener of leaders and influencers, and advocate for friendly business policies serving the communities of Westborough, Northborough, Southborough, Shrewsbury and Grafton. For more information about all the Chamber’s events, programs and services, visit www.corridornine.org.

Market Basket | from page 1 smooth,” McLean said.

Customers from Millbury to Rhode Island come to opening

The new store is part of the larger Edgemere Crossing at Flint Pond development at the site of the former Edgemere Drive-In. This store will anchor Edgemere Crossing.

Customer Olinda Pryor attended the grand opening to shop for food to make her husband a special birthday dinner.

Pryor recently moved to Paxton from Boston and said she is glad there is a Market Basket close to her new home because there is not that type of store located in the city.

“I am so happy. I can shop for whatever I like. Here, they got everything, so I am enjoying,” she said.

In the next aisle, customer Michele Brunell was doing her weekly shopping.

Brunell, who lives in Millbury, said now that there is a

Market Basket close to home, she will become a regular shopper at the store.

“I feel very welcome,” she said.

Some customers do not live close by, but enjoy shopping at Market Basket so much they decided to attend the opening.

One such customer is Deborah Ahern, who is from Rhode Island. Ahern said she made the drive because she wanted to check out the store and see what deals were being offered.

“I love the grand opening. It’s running really smoothly,” she said.

Customers

flocked to the new Market Basket located in Edgemere Crossing at Flint Pond in Shrewsbury from across Massachusetts and even

out of state.

The customers shopped through the aisles, browsing their selection of cards and cold products. Market Basket officials estimated that between 5,000 to 7,000 shoppers would come that first day.

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PHOTOS/CAROLINE GORDON

WESTBOROUGH - The Massachusetts Department of Transportation has scheduled a virtual public information meeting on the 75% design of the Fruit Street Bridge and ramp ES/SE (routes I-90 eastbound to I-495 southbound, and I-495 southbound to I-90 eastbound).

The meeting will take place on Wednesday, Jan. 25, at 6 p.m.

The meeting will begin with a presentation by the project team. Attendees can view plans for the Fruit Street Bridge and ramp ES/SE and ask questions.

Register in advance via tinyurl.com/5apvna9m.

All residents, abutters, local business owners and interested commuters are invited to attend. All attendees who sign into the meeting and provide an email address will be entered into the project’s email database to receive project updates.

About the project

For years, the I-495/I-90 Interchange has experienced traffic demands exceeding its capacity. On an average day,

this interchange carries hundreds of thousands of vehicles traveling on both I-90 and I-495, with approximately half of all trucking entering eastern Massachusetts.

The deficient geometry concentrates movements through the former toll plaza area, resulting in queuing onto the interstate mainlines and crash rates twice the statewide average.

The project will replace the interchange, eliminate the old toll booth area and weaving areas, improve ramp spacing, acceleration and deceleration lanes, and add an auxiliary lane from I-495 northbound

Drone photography shows the I-495/I-290 interchange. MassDOT will be holding a hearing on this project next week.

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH - The Westborough Fire Department has a new lieutenant.

During the Select Board’s meeting on Jan. 10, board members presided over the swearing in of Fire Department Lt. Corey Anderson.

“The swearing in is one of the most important ceremonies [in the department],” said Fire Chief Patrick Purcell.

Anderson has been a member of the department since 2013. He is currently a member of Group Two, and he is a paramedic.

Members of Anderson’s family, including his father, Andrew, a member of the Westwood Fire Department, took part in the ceremony.

Other appointments announced during the meeting:

• Fire Department Deputy Chief Stephen Doucet has been appointed the deputy emergency management director and named to the Local Emergency Planning Committee.

to Route 9.

New bridges will be constructed on I-495 over I-90, on I-495 and I-90 over the MBTA/ CSX/Amtrak lines, on I-495 northbound over Flanders Road, and on Fruit Street.

The project design is taking place now through December 2024, with project completion scheduled for June 2027.

If someone you know would like to subscribe to receive project updates, meeting notices and traffic impact advisories, email 495-90Improvements@ state.ma.us, or visit www. mass.gov/massdot/495-90interchange.

-school.org 508-351-9905

• Deborah Ledoux has been appointed interim town clerk until the Annual Town Election on March 14. Ledoux will take over for Wendy Mickel once she retires on Jan. 27.

• Jennifer Miller has become the town’s new conservation agent. She comes from Seekonk, where she worked as a conservation agent for the past six years.

• Linda Smith has been appointed by Town Manager Kristi Williams as the town’s new treasurer/collector. She will begin Feb. 6; her appointment will run through June 30, 2026.

• Patrick Welch will become the Select Board’s representative to the Town Planner Search Committee. Jim Robbins, who has served as town planner for 30 years, will be retiring in late March.

Corey Anderson was formally sworn in as a lieutenant with the Westborough Fire Department on Tuesday, Jan. 10.

PHOTO/TAMI WHITE

Mickel prepares to step down as Westborough’s town clerk

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH - Wendy Mickel knows the pulse of the town.

Births, marriages, deaths, Town Meetings, town elections — the everyday history of the community flows through the Town Clerk’s office.

For nearly three decades — 19 years as assistant town clerk, nine years as town clerk — Mickel and her staff have recorded and preserved town records, print and digital.

Come Jan. 27, Mickel will step down. She has decided not to run for another threeyear term.

“2020 sealed the deal for me to retire,” said Mickel. “Vote by mail, early in-person voting … it’s too much work for us.”

She cited the extra preparation needed to run elections in town — this year alone, there were three elections (town election, state primary, state election) and three Town Meetings.

“The elections take away from day-to-day duties,” she said. “It’s getting more and more challenging.”

Changes over the years

When Mickel was first hired to assist then-Town Clerk Nancy Yendriga, the town’s population was 14,000; there were four precincts and three places to vote. Votes were recorded with crank-operated ballot boxes.

The town’s population is now 21,000, with six precincts

PHOTO/MAUREEN SULLIVAN

and one place to vote. Votes are now recorded with high-speed scanners.

“There’s a lot of new people, a lot more apartments,” said

Mickel, who has lived in town since she was one year old.

One change Mickel welcomed — the town’s decision to go back to the 1913 town seal.

“I like what we did,” she said. “I’m glad we brought the old seal back.”

Mickel looks to the future

Steps away from her desk, a vault contains Westborough’s town records from the beginning in 1717 to the present day.

“I like to go and pull out a book; it’s perhaps the best part of it,” said Mickel as she showed a page of town records from 1760. “It’s knowing I’m part of that. I’m a part of history now.”

Mickel will continue to serve the town as a member of the Master Plan Implementation Committee.

She will also enjoy spending time with her grandchildren.

Aside from that, Mickel is keeping her options open.

“I love the job, I love the town,” she said. “The number of people I’ve met, the number of people I know … the people coming in and taking care of what’s needed, that’s been the most fascinating part of the job.”

Assistant Town Clerk Deborah Ledoux has pulled papers to run for town clerk in the March 14 Annual Town Election.

Northborough ‘Select Board’ name change to go before Town Meeting

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH - Northborough may be the latest community in the region to change the name of its Board of Selectmen to Select Board.

Chair Mitch Cohen said he asked for this to be placed on the Jan. 9 agenda. He noted that there have been broad discussions about the change over the past several months while he was on the board.

“I thought as we are approaching Town Meeting, this might be an opportune time to consider placing on the warrant and getting direction from [Town Administrator John Coderre] as to ways we can make this happen, if the board

is so inclined,” Cohen said.

According to Coderre and in accordance with information from town counsel, the best process to make the change would be to submit a special act to modify Northborough’s town charter.

As of the Jan. 9 meeting, Coderre didn’t have a cost estimate for the change.

The selectmen voiced their support prior to voting with Julianne Hirsh noting that the Massachusetts Municipal Association has accepted it as a change of the board’s name and Scott Rogers adding that he tried to say “select board” as much as he could.

“I think it’s time Northborough joins the 21st century and uses a gender neutral term for a

board that has all kind of people on it and might in the future have all kind of people on it,” said Selectman Kristen Wixted. With this vote, the selectmen voted to place an article on the Town Meeting warrant authorizing a petition for the special act and to amend the town bylaws to reflect the change. It also authorized Coderre to work with town counsel to draft the legislation and reach out to Northborough’s delegation to get it on the docket for the Legislature.

Other local communities have made the move from Board of Selectmen to Select Board. Last September, the Legislature passed a bill to rename the Shrewsbury board to Select Board.

Wendy Mickel, who is stepping down as town clerk in late January, shows a page from town records dating from 1760.

LEGAL NOTICES

MARLBOROUGH

CITY OF MARLBOROUGH ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

ZBA Case # 1495-2022

HUDSON

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

HUDSON PLANNING BOARD

Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the Hudson Planning Board on Tuesday, February 7, 2023 at 7:00 PM. Pursuant to Chapter 107 of the Acts 2022 extending remote meeting provisions of Governor Baker’s March 12, 2020 Executive Order suspending certain provisions of the Open Meeting Law, this meeting of the Hudson Zoning Board will be conducted fully-remote. Specific information for remote participation will be included on the agenda.

At this time, the Hudson Planning Board will consider the application of JJ McCarthy, LLC for Site Plan Approval to construct a paved bus storage area at the intersection of Fox Road and River Road pursuant to the provisions of Section 7.1.7 of the Town of Hudson Zoning By-laws. The subject property is located at 2 Fox Road within the M-7 Manufacturing District, Assessors’ Map 71 Parcel 1.

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=CMJQUZ6B1412 and can be requested by calling (978) 5622989 or by sending an email to kjohnson@townofhudson.org

Hudson Planning Board

Robert D’Amelio, Chairman

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals on Thursday, February 9, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. Pursuant to the Chapter 20 of the Acts of 2021 Suspending Certain Provisions of the Open Meeting Law, G.L. c. 30A, §18, this meeting of the Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals will be conducted via remote participation

At this time the Board of Appeals will hear the request of Native Sun Wellness, Inc., to amend a Special Permit issued on July 25, 2019 to operate a medical marijuana establishment pursuant to Section 5.11.5 paragraph 10 of the Town of Hudson’s Zoning bylaws between the hours of 8:00 AM and 10:00PM. 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=CMZJNK4E00F2and can be requested by calling (978) 5622989 or by sending an email to kjohnson@townofhudson.org.

Jason Mauro, Clerk

Location: 785 and 795 Boston Post Rd. East

Applicant: Atty. Robert Dionisi (representing Alice Wright & Jean E. Rabelo Trustees)

Notice is hereby given that the Marlborough Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public meeting on January 31, 2023 at 7:00 P.M. at Marlborough City Hall, 140 Main St. – 3rd Floor Memorial Hall.

Petition: An appeal to the failed response by the City’s Building Commissioner to opine as to the zoning status of the subject properties situated at 785 and 795 Boston Post Rd. East. The applicants request an opinion pursuant to M.G.L. c 40A Section 7 to determine whether the owners/ applicants possess the right, under pre-existing zoning status of the premises, to have granted to the owners a Class 2 license as defined in M.G.L. c 140 Section 58(c) that is to conduct the purchase and sale of secondhand motor vehicles.

For further assistance, please contact the Board at 508-460-3768. All interested persons are invited.

Applicant or representative must be present Ralph Loftin Chairman Zoning Board of Appeals

NOTICE OF MARLBOROUGH BOARD OF HEALTH REGULATION

On January 9, 2023 the Board adopted the following regulation.

City of Marlborough Board of Health Regulations for the Minimum Standards for Human Habitation, Food Establishments, and On-Site Sewage Treatment & Disposal Systems

In accordance with Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 111, section 31 and any other enabling law, the Marlborough Board of Health adopts the following regulation. The purpose of this regulation is to protect residents, businesses, and public health within the City of Marlborough.

Article I: Minimum Standards for Human Habitation

105 CMR 410.000 MINIMUM STANDARDS OF FITNESS FOR HUMAN HABITATION (STATE SANITARY CODE, CHAPTER II), as may be amended, is hereby adopted by reference and shall apply.

Article II: Minimum Standards for Food Establishments

105 CMR 590.000 MINIMUM STANDARDS FOR FOOD ESTABLISHMENTS (STATE SANITARY CODE, CHAPTER X), as may be amended, is hereby adopted by reference and shall apply.

Article III: Minimum Standards for Onsite Sewage Treatment & Disposal Systems

310 CMR 15.000 MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR THE SUBSURFACE DISPOSAL OF SANITARY SEWAGE (STATE ENVIRONMENTAL CODE, TITLE V), as may be amended, is hereby adopted by reference and shall apply.

Article IV: Enforcement and Penalties

The provisions of the above-referenced regulations of the Commonwealth shall be enforceable by the Marlborough Board of Health and its agents as provided by law. A violation of said regulations may also be enforced as a violation of the above regulations of the Board of Health, and for purposes of non-criminal disposition pursuant to MGL c. 40, s. 21D, the enforcing agent shall be the Board of Health and its agents including the Director of Public Health, and the specific penalty amount shall be in accordance with the Code of the City of Marlborough Chapter 315-2 Noncriminal Disposition.

Effective Date

These regulations are formally adopted by the Board on January 9, 2023. These regulations shall be effective on February 1, 2023.

NORTHBOROUGH

LEGAL NOTICE

The Northborough Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, February 7, 2023 at 6:05pm for further proceedings on the application of The Gutierrez Company for site plan approval and a Groundwater Protection Overlay District special permit for development of a distribution center and warehouse project on property known as 0 and 301 Bartlett Street. This matter comes before the Board as a result of a decision and remand order of the Land Court, dated November 9, 2022, in the case of The Gutierrez Company v. Northborough Planning Board, Case No. 21 MISC 000046, which concerns the plaintiff’s appeal from a decision of the Board filed with the Town Clerk on January 13, 2021, which denied the site plan and special permit application. The property is shown on Assessors’ Map 51 as Parcel 3 and Map 66 as Parcel 16, and is located in the Industrial Zoning District and Groundwater Protection Overlay District Areas 1 and 3. The Land Court decision annulled the Planning Board’s decision, and per the remand order the hearing is limited to review of the project under the nine site plan decision criteria in Section 7-03-050.C(2) of the Zoning Bylaw and a determination of whether the operation and maintenance plan or the snow storage plan previously submitted by the applicant in connection with the application for a Groundwater Protection Overlay District Special Permit require further detail from the applicant.

Pursuant to Chapter 20 of the Acts of 2021, An Act Relative to Extending Certain COVID-19 Measures Adopted during the State of Emergency, signed into law on June 16, 2021, as amended by Chapter 22 of the Acts of 2022, this meeting will be conducted via remote participation.  No in-person attendance by members of the public will be permitted. To participate in the public comment portions of this meeting from a PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone or Android device, please click this URL to join: https://town-northboroughma-us.zoom.us/j/82546102224 Passcode 155770 Or Join by phone: 301 715 8592 Webinar ID: 825 4610 2224 Passcode: 155770

Kerri Martinek, Chairman

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

In accordance with MGL Ch. 40A Sec. 5, the Northborough Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, February 7, 2023 at 6:20pm for the

purpose of seeking public opinion on proposed amendments to the following section of the Northborough Zoning Bylaw (Chapter 7): Section 7-07010 Groundwater Protection Overlay District, pertaining to elimination of the Groundwater Advisory Committee, and acceptance of M.G.L. Chapter 39, Section 23D, pertaining to attendance at adjudicatory hearings. Complete text of the proposed amendment is available on the Planning Department webpage at https://www.town.northborough.ma.us/planning-department

Pursuant to Chapter 20 of the Acts of 2021, An Act Relative to Extending Certain COVID-19 Measures Adopted During the State of Emergency, signed into law on June 16, 2021, as amended by Chapter 22 of the Acts of 2022, this meeting will be conducted via remote participation.  No in-person attendance by members of the public will be permitted. To participate in the public comment portions of this meeting from a PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone or Android device, please click this URL to join: https://town-northboroughma-us.zoom.us/j/82546102224 Passcode 155770 Or Join by phone: 301 715 8592 Webinar ID: 825 4610 2224 Passcode: 155770

Kerri Martinek, Chairman

SHREWSBURY

LEGAL NOTICE

The Shrewsbury Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday evening, February 2, 2023 at 7:00 PM, in the Selectmen’s Hearing Room at the Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, to hear the application of Plug Power, 968 Albany Shaker Road, Latham, NY, 12110, as required by the Town of Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw, Section VII.F.3, for Site Plan Modification by the Planning Board to allow for the construction and installation of hydrogen storage and compression system pad outside of the building, as shown on plans entitled, “GENFUEL HFC for Neles/Valmet City of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts,” in thirtytwo (32) sheets, dated December 21, 2022, prepared SPEC Engineering and Consulting LLC, 349 Northern Boulevard, Albany NY, 12204; stamped by Joseph S. Burke, PE. The subject property is located at the end of Bowditch Drive and on the northern side of Main Street and consists in whole or in part of Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 19, Plot 145003.

A copy of the plans may be seen in the Department of Planning and Economic Development or on the Planning Board website at https://shrewsburyma. gov/905/Meeting-Materials.

SHREWSBURY PLANNING BOARD

Joseph A. Thomas, Jr., Clerk

SHREWSBURY ELECTRIC AND CABLE OPERATIONS

SELCO is seeking bids for Various Underground Cable & Fiber Work for a one year contract beginning April 1, 2023 through March 31, 2024. Specifications may be obtained at SELCO, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 during normal business hours, Or by contacting tmaddocks@shrewsburyma.gov.

SELCO is looking for multiple contractors that can perform repairs (as needed) to its underground infrastructure carrying SELCO’s Cable and Fiber plant. Contractor to adhere to all safety requirements and OSHA Regulations. Contractor working for SELCO must

use prevailing wages, perform dig-safe and work with oversight from SELCO’s Electric Operations and SELCO’s Cable Operations department.

Attention is called to minimum wage rates to be paid on the work as determined by the Department of Labor Standards, under the provisions of the Massachusetts General laws, Chapter 149, Section 26 to 27H inclusive.

Bids shall be sealed and appropriately marked “Various Underground Cable & Fiber Work-2023” and will be received in the Office of the Town Manager, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 until 11:00am, Tuesday, February 7, 2023, at which time and place they will be publicly opened and read.

No bidder may withdraw their bid within (30) days after the date designated above for the filing of bids. The Town and SELCO reserve the right to reject any and all bids, wholly or in part, and to accept any bid or part thereof deemed by it to be in the best interest of the Town and SELCO.

SHREWSBURY ELECTRIC AND CABLE OPERATIONS

SELCO MUNICIPAL LIGHT COMMISSION

Robert Holland, Chairman

Anthony Trippi, Secretary

Michael Refolo, Commissioner Maria Lemieux, Commissioner Kelly Marshall, Commissioner

Christopher Roy, General Manager

INVITATION FOR BIDS

The Town of Shrewsbury, acting through the Town Manager’s office, will receive sealed, written bids in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 30B, at the Office of the Town Manager, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, for the Purchase of Water Meters until 2:00PM on February 9th 2023, at which time bids will be publicly opened and read aloud.

Specifications and bid forms may be examined and/or obtained beginning on January 9th 2023, by registering online to download bid documents at https://www.shrewsburyma.gov/bids.

The Bid shall be enclosed in a sealed envelope clearly marked with “Purchase of Water Meters” on the outside of the envelope and addressed to the Office of the Town Manager, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545

The Town of Shrewsbury, providing equal opportunity, encourages bids from minority and women owned businesses.

The Town of Shrewsbury reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, to cancel this IFB or to accept any proposal deemed by them to be in the best interest of the Town of Shrewsbury.

TOWN OF

SHREWSBURY

Kevin Mizikar Town Manager

WESTBOROUGH

WESTBOROUGH FY24

BUDGET HEARING

January 24, 2023 at 6:15PM

Town Hall- Memorial Hall (3rd floor) 34 West Main Street

The hearing will be part of a regularly scheduled Select Board meeting, which will be held in-person. This will include an opportunity for public comment to be received.

Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals

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

Bennett, Frank of Marlborough

Bertin, LaVerne formerly of Northborough Brown, Tyler of Southborough Bruce, Kathleen of Marlborough Casey, Theresa of Shrewsbury Ciannella Sr., Michael of Marlborough

Curran, Richard of Shrewsbury

Doherty, Mary formerly of Marlborough Finn, Suzanne of Marlborough

Fridley, Michael of Grafton

Gradilone, James of Shrewsbury Hall, Maryanne of Westborough Hellen, Mary of Hudson

Ishak, Magdi of Tampa, FL and Hudson

Knowles, Linda of Marlborough Martin, David of Shrewsbury

McCarthy, Daniel formerly of Marlborough

McMahon, Michelle of Marlborough

Naves, Dora of Marlborough

Nikopoulos, Steve of Westborough O’Leary, Elizabeth formerly of Marlborough

O’Loughlin III, John of Hudson Rawstron, William of Northborough Simonelli, Sharlene of Shrewsbury

Stucchi, Lorraine formerly of Hudson and Northborough Sullivan, John of Northborough Yee, Ngoc of Northborough

Magdi Ishak, 79

TAMPA, FLA./ HUDSONMagdi Tawfik Ishak, age 79, of Tampa, FL and Hudson, MA passed December 28, 2022, surrounded by his family.

Magdi is survived by his loving wife Lynne (née Hunter) of 50 years; children Tony (wife Chandra), Amy, and Mark (wife Kenzell); grandchildren Eliott, Raina and Henry; brother Dr. Samir Ishak (wife Frieda), sister Cecile Tadros, and sister-in-law Nadia Ghattas, as well as many most-beloved cousins, second cousins, nieces, nephews and grand nieces and nephews.

Preceding Magdi in death are his parents, Tawfik Sourial and Eauginie Raphael, brother Monir Ishak, and brother-inlaw Sobhi Tadros.

Magdi was born January 7, 1943 in Zagazig, Egypt and grew up in Cairo, Egypt. He graduated

from Cairo University with a major in Electrical Engineering prior to emigrating to the US in 1967. There he settled in Cambridge, MA and earned a Master’s Degree in Engineering Management from Northeastern University. He met his wife Lynne in 1970. He began his professional career as an electrical engineer at various engineering companies. Eventually he began working in the computer industry starting at Data General. He worked his way into engineering management at Digital Equipment Corporation and ultimately retired as a project manager from HP Inc. after over forty years in the industry.

Magdi and Lynne raised their three children in Southborough, Massachusetts, where they resided for forty-eight years. There, they developed many lifelong friendships and shared many precious memories with close friends and extended family including Magdi’s nephews Ashraf Tadros, Peter Tadros and Ramses Ishak. After retirement, Magdi enjoyed spending time laughing and fraternizing with friends, planning large family trips and gatherings, and barbequing. For the last decade Magdi and Lynne wintered in Tampa where Magdi enjoyed spending time on the beach, hosting family and friends, and spending time with his grandchildren Raina and Henry. He will be remembered for his radiant smile, loving and welcoming spirit, devotion to family and friends, and for frequently stumping everyone with brainteasers.

A memorial service for friends and family will be held in spring of 2023 in Massachusetts; details to be determined at a later date.

Dora Naves, 99

MARLBOROUGH - Dora

Anastas (Stephens) Naves, 99, longtime resident of Marlborough, MA passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 10, 2023, at home surrounded by her loving daughters.

She was predeceased by her husband Thomas Joseph Naves and two daughters, Jennifer Jeanne Naves, and Paulette Edith Naves. The daughter of the late Anastas and Pauline (Christie) Stephens, she credited

her “Albanian genes” with her long and active life, first in Hudson and then in Marlborough.

Dora and Tommy started their life together in Las Vegas, returning to the East Coast when they found out they were expecting the first of four girls. Tommy became a firefighter, while Dora taught cooking at the Girls Club on Mechanic Street. Soon after, they embarked on their next adventure to acquire investment properties. Her children and later grandchildren acted as her own personal squad of wall paperers, painters, and cleaners. Dora’s affinity for real estate continued with her first real estate license at over 50 years old. She worked for many years as a Century21 agent for Greg Mitrakis, before founding her own business: Dora Naves & Associates.

Most knew to look for her situated behind her desk at her real estate office on Hosmer Street, always welcoming visitors, both new and familiar. The exception to this rule was Sundays at St. Luke’s Church in Hudson. Dora was a pillar of the parish for decades and was later granted a lifetime vestry position.

Beyond her work and church life, Dora extended her heart to its furthest reach, never tiring of helping others. She was a life-long volunteer, often driving cancer patients into Boston for treatment, an extension of the American Cancer Society phone line she operated out of her home for many years. She taught her family the importance of always helping those who were less fortunate, whether they were human or animal. This tendency to help others came from her mother. Though they were not well off, Dora’s mother always ensured that they sent whatever they could to assist other families in need. Likewise, she attributed her passion for gardening to her father, often regaling her family with stories of their massive garden on Cherry Street. Like her father, she loved having her hands in the dirt.

She is survived by her two daughters, Stefanie R. Ferrecchia and partner Bobby Kays of Marlborough, MA, Pamela A. Naves of Gibson, NC; her grandchildren, Christie, Aaron, and Jenna Ferrecchia, and Gabby Perez along with other relatives and friends.

The Tighe Hamilton Funeral Home of Hudson assisted with arrangements.

David J. Martin, 75

SHREWSBURYDavid J. Martin, 75, of Shrewsbury, formerly of Westborough, died peacefully on Wednesday January 4, 2023 in Care Dimensions in Lincoln, MA with his loving family by his side.

He leaves his beloved wife of 53 years, Catherine K. (Killory) Martin; their devoted daughter, Marybeth Martin-Moore and her husband Bryan, of Worcester; his step-granddaughter, Paige Moore, of Worcester; his siblings, James Martin, and his wife Eileen, of Columbia, MD, Joan Fanning and her husband James, of Worcester, Jan White, of Worcester, and Patricia Wiser and her husband Craig, of Grafton; his in-laws, George, Maureen, and Marcia; several nieces and nephews; as well as his feline friend, Kingsley. David was predeceased by his parents, Walter and Eleanor (Johnson) Martin; his beloved brother-inlaw, Jack; and his brother-inlaw, James.

The Britton-Shrewsbury Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.

Kathleen J. Bruce, 73

MARLBOROUGH - Kathleen J. (Hayes) Bruce, 73 of Marlborough passed away peacefully in her sleep on Wednesday, January 4, 2023. She was born in Framingham, the daughter of the late Paul J. and Margaret M. (Murphy) Hayes.

Kathleen is survived by her husband of 39 years, Robert B. Bruce of Marlborough, 2 daughters, Crista McKinnon and her husband Jeffrey of Acton, Heather Benson and her husband Larry of Woodstock, CT, a son Matthew Bruce and his wife Lynnette of Framingham, 10 grandchildren, Timothy, Jeffrey, Samantha, Cassia, Steven, Sean, Jake, Shane, Maya and Olivia, 3 great grandchildren, Sophia, Asher and Olivia, a sister, Maryellen Newsom and her husband Thomas of Littleton and many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by 2 sisters, Patricia Kropp, Margaret Mirabito and a brother Paul Hayes.

The Short & Rowe Funeral Home of Marlborough is assisting with arrangements.

John F. Sullivan, 76

NORTHBOROUGH - It is with deepest sorrow that we announce the passing of John “Jack” F. Sullivan, Jr., 76, of Northborough, on January 5, 2023. Jack was born and raised in Worcester, the youngest of four children born to John and Helen (Cummings) Sullivan.

Jack is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Carol (Fredette) Sullivan; daughter Kerri Sullivan-Kreiss and her husband John Kreiss of Northborough, and daughter Tracey SullivanVictor and her husband Paul Victor of Holden; his sister Patricia Moynihan, and his brother Kevin Sullivan. He also leaves four grandchildren: Morgan, Connor, Alyson, and Andrew. Jack is predeceased by his sister, Maureen Ahearn.

The Chiampa Funeral Home of Shrewsbury assisted with arrangements.

Steve P. Nikopoulos, 59

WESTBOROUGH - Steve P. Nikopoulos, 59, of Westborough, MA, passed away on January 6th, 2023. He died peacefully at home with his family by his side—his wife, Eileen, and his children, Katherine and Peter.

Steve was predeceased by parents. He leaves his older brother, Angelo Nikopoulos, several nieces and nephews, cousins and many friends. Steve was born Stavros Panagiotis Nikopoulos in Ioannina, Greece, to Panagiotis and Marianthi (Garalea) Nikopoulos.

The Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.

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

Asst. Town Manager says goodbye to Shrewsbury

By Caroline Gordon Reporter

SHREWSBURY - After over a decade of serving Shrewsbury, Assistant Town Manager Kristen Las is stepping down.

“I would just like to say thank you for the opportunities the employees and management has given me over the past 12 years. Thank you to the residents and business owners who trusted me with their thoughts and ideas,” Las said.

“The experience that I have gained in Shrewsbury is invaluable for my career and my life.”

Las will be joining Westford as its town manager and plans to begin her role later this month.

Select Board Chair Moe DePalo, who worked alongside Las during her entire career, said that he was impressed with her professionalism and intelligence.

“Her presentations to Town Meeting on zoning matters were always crisp and understandable.

We could always count on Kristen to tackle complex problems and help the Select Board navigate complicated zoning, planning and economic development issues with sound advice,” DePalo said.

From Town Planner to Assistant Town Manager

Prior to working in Shrewsbury, Las worked for Beals and Thomas, a civil engineering and land planning firm, which is located in Southborough. In 2010, she began working for Shrewsbury as the town planner.

Las said she was drawn to Shrewsbury because it is “an

extremely well-managed community.”

She credits her passion for town management to a former Shrewsbury Town Manager Daniel Morgado, who appointed her as Assistant Town Manager in 2015. She said he taught her about municipal management and town projects that were outside the realm of planning.

While working as the Assistant Town Manager, Las enjoyed collaborating with staff, helping resolve residents’ issues and assisting business owners in town.

“I enjoy seeing a municipal-

ity that is growing and thriving,” she said.

One of her most memorable moments while working for Shrewsbury was seeing the Lakeway Commons development open.

“That was a proud moment in my work,” she said.

Another memory she cherishes is when Town Manager Kevin Mizikar appointed her as the Assistant Town Manager with a specific focus on community development and human services.

Las was also a member of the Police Station Building Committee, which is under construction behind the current station.

Collaborating with residents and seeing the construction of the building is a “great moment to go out on,” she said.

But, she will miss working with Shrewsbury residents.

“It’s a very large town, but I have always felt a small town vibe because you always get to know residents and there is a merit of cultures to immerse

yourself in. And, there is a huge amount of civic pride,” she said.

While there were too many colleagues to name whom she said she will miss, Las said she would miss their “expertise, professionalism, their day-today guidance and their overall friendship as well.”

Mizikar called Las a “trailblazer” in all of her contributions to the town.

“Over this time she has guided a diverse portfolio of town operations that has no doubt improved the quality of life of residents of Shrewsbury. I will always be grateful for Kristen’s support since I have been the town manager,” he said.

Principal Department Assistant Taylor Galusha said Las has served as a “major role model” for her.

“She is and will continue to be an integral part of what makes Shrewsbury a great place to live and work. Her impact in Shrewsbury is positive and long lasting and she will be missed dearly in Town Hall,” Galusha said.

Kristen Las smiles for a photo in front of the Shrewsbury town plaque in the Select Board’s room.

PHOTO/CAROLINE GORDON

Northborough Girl Scout cleans grave markers for Silver Award project

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH - The grave markers in the Howard Street Cemetery are shining more brightly, thanks to a local Girl Scout.

Lana Ingerslev, who is a freshman at Algonquin Regional High School, cleaned the markers as part of her Silver Award project.

The Silver Award is the second-highest award that a Girl Scout can receive.

“Lana’s restoration of some of our older cemetery memorials is a great example of civic pride and is truly appreciated by Public Works and members of our community,” said Director of Public Works Scott Charpentier.

Ingerslev, who enjoys history and science, has been a Girl Scout since kindergarten. The inspiration for her project began when her brother, who is a Boy Scout, was placing flags on veterans’ graves on Memorial Day. One of the

mothers pointed out how difficult it was to read or see any of the details of any of the older graves, in particular.

“I was like, ‘Oh, that could actually be a really nice project,’” Ingerslev said.

At the same time, Ingerslev was planning on earning her Silver Award.

So, she did research on what materials she would need to clean the grave markers and reached out to officials to gain permission. Then, Ingerslev got to work.

“I went and found some graves that [needed] cleaning, and I got the right stuff and spent time cleaning them.

They’ve turned out really great,” she said.

Ingerslev found a biological solution that she used called D/2, which she said is “perfectly harmless” to the environment and humans, and some of the other markers only needed Dawn soap. And a lot of brushing. She estimated

that she went through three to four toothbrushes.

Ingerslev herself had cleaned about seven or eight of the grave markers by the end of September, and her mother cleaned about five to six.

But despite getting her Silver Award, Ingerslev had no plans to stop cleaning the markers.

“It’s just really nice. You sit there and you can listen to an audiobook or sit there and talk to someone, and you just scrub,” Ingerslev said. “A little physical labor, but meditative.”

Norm Corbin, who is the chair of the Historic District Commission, said it was a useful project for the community.

“The cleaned gravestones are pristine,” Corbin said. “She has demonstrated the best procedure for cleaning the stones, which will be very helpful for any future work. Her work is much appreciated.”

Lana Ingerslev stands next to the grave markers in the Howard Street Cemetery that she cleaned as part of her Silver Award project.

PHOTO/LAURA HAYES

Wojnar, Belanger graduate from Sheriff’s Office Academy

GRAFTON/MARLBOROUGH -

In December, Worcester County Sheriff Lew Evangelidis administered the correctional officers oath to the 20 graduating recruits of the Sheriff Office’s 58th Basic Recruit Training Academy at Anna Maria College.

Among the 20 graduates were Grafton resident Officer Nicholas Wojnar and Marlborough resident Officer Stephen Belanger.

As president of the graduating class, Wojnar delivered remarks to his fellow graduates and their families and friends. Wojnar took the opportunity to recall the challenges the group faced throughout the academy and the amusing memories that brought the group closer together.

The Worcester County Sheriff’s office has remained committed to hiring a diverse workforce to better meet the needs of the population they serve. The graduates of BRTA #58 are a well-rounded group of recruits. The newly sworn-in corrections

officers represent 12 towns in Massachusetts and one in Connecticut. Nearly 50% of the class is composed of veterans or reservists. Moreover, there are at least four different languages spoken by various members of the recruit class.

The Sheriff’s Office Academy is a 12-week paid program

that consists of both classroom and hands-on instruction in which recruits are taught how to handle and maintain the care, custody and control of inmates incarcerated at the Worcester County Jail and House of Correction.

Important topics such as deescalation, duty to intervene,

fire safety, defensive tactics, first responder training, suicide prevention, mental health, and substance abuse are covered in the classroom. Hands-on training consists of physical fitness, CPR/first responder, firearms, skid school and many other scenario-based exercises.

“Our new officers have just

completed 12 weeks of rigorous training and are now among the best and brightest in corrections today,” said Evangelidis. “Each has demonstrated great strength and resolve, as they have navigated the academy, and will now continue our mission to serve, protect, and create a better, more safe community for all.”

Since taking office, Evangelidis has made significant changes to the hiring standards to professionalize the department. All correctional officer applicants must have, at minimum, an associate’s degree, two years of military service or two years of relevant work experience. They must also pass a written exam, physical fitness test, background check and psychological screening test.

Evangelidis has also implemented a policy that prohibits the submission of letters of recommendation from politicians and gives preference to hiring those who have served the country.

Stephen Belanger

Nicholas Wojnar

POLICE FIRE&

Truth Organic Spa bounces back after fire

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

GRAFTON - Nearly two months after a fire caused heavy damage to its business, Truth Organic Spa on North Main Street has bounced back.

The spa has been operating out of a temporary location at 74 North Main St. since early December. It’s just down the street from 55 North Main St., where a fire early on Nov. 13 damaged the building that housed the spa.

Within three weeks after the fire, the spa found a temporary location, and it was back in business in time for the holidays.

“We are doing well, still amazed at how fast we got back up and running, down for three weeks only and now we’re back doing what we love to do,” said Truth Spa owner Julie Bovenzi. “We couldn’t have done it with-

out the community support; that’s for sure.”

While a full array of services and programs is available at the new location, work is underway to repair the old location.

“I have been meeting with insurance companies and contractors and I feel comfortable with the process of rebuilding,” said Bovenzi. “We have cleaned the entire place out. It’s gutted

… and now a structural engineer will go in and examine what needs to be replaced. Then we start the rebuilding process.”

Bovenzi said that the 55 North Main St. location could be ready sometime in November.

Left: Even after two months, Truth Organic Spa at 55 North Main St. still shows the damage left by a fire.

Right: Truth Organic Spa is now operating out a temporary space at 74 North Main St.

“This will be a long process,” she said.

Bovenzi said she will post updates on the spa’s Facebook page.

“What comes out of all of this will be a beautiful space for

people to come, relax and find stillness of mind. We have new services planned, new products and other great treatments.

“I didn’t realize how much Truth meant to people’s wellbeing; I found out just how much after the fire. I’m determined to bring it all back and I am so looking forward to the next open house in November 2023,” she said.

Truth Organic Spa offers massage therapy, skin treatments, microdermabrasion, body treatments, energy treatments and more. It also offers organic skin-care products.

For details, visit www.truthorganicspa.com, or check out its Facebook page, www.facebook. com/truthorganicspa.

Former Bolton Street Tavern employee charged with vandalism

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH - A former employee of the Bolton Street Tavern faces charges of vandalism after he reportedly fired on the business with a BB/pellet gun.

sprayed onto the building.

According to police, Sweeney had been working at the tavern for the past few months, but he had been fired earlier that day for unspecified reasons.

Officers were unable to locate the 2010 Audi registered to the suspect.

reportedly found and seized three BB/pellet guns on the front seat.

For many young adults,

the transition years between teenage and adulthood can be lled with mixed emotions.

For those with mental health issues, this phase can be even more challenging.

On Jan. 7, at around 6:44 p.m., police responded to the tavern for a report of vandalism. Upon arrival, officers were met by the manager, who said a former employee, identified as Patrick Sweeney, had peppered the building with several red crosses. The suspect sent an employee a video on Instagram showing the crosses being

On Jan. 8, at around 5:46 p.m., Sweeney reportedly returned to the tavern and began shooting at windows with a BB gun. Officers responded, but the suspect had fled, leaving several windows damaged, including the main and side entrances.

Officers were able to locate the Audi on Route 290, and they

Sweeney was arrested and charged with two counts of vandalism; assault with a dangerous weapon; carrying a dangerous weapon; disturbing the peace; and motor vehicle infractions leading to the stop of his vehicle on Route 290.

Sweeney was arraigned in Marlborough District Court on Jan. 9 where he was ordered committed without bail pending a dangerousness hearing.

He was brought before Marlborough District Court on a dangerousness hearing on Jan. 13.

Young Adult Program is for ages 18-25

We provide a therapeutic, safe and welcoming environment to assist our young adults in improving their coping, functioning and mood.

Please contact our Intake Department to schedule an assessment.

508.329.6412

TAKING FLIGHT

PHOTOS/MAUREEN SULLIVAN

POLICE LOG

10:23 a.m. Arrested, Armando Rene Lopez Marcos, 37, of 15 Willow St., Apt. 20, Westborough, for op MV with license suspended.

9:52 p.m. Arrested, Carlos Manuel Romero, 20, of 323 Vane St., Apt. 1, Revere, for OUI-liquor or .08%, speeding, unlicensed operation of MV, marked lanes violation, fail to stop for police.

Saturday, Jan. 7

ough/Broadmeadow Rd. Vandalism.

2:33 p.m. Tavitian Blvd. Fraud/ forgery.

3:14 p.m. Marlborough High School/ Bolton St. Assault.

3:38 p.m. Bigelow St. Fraud/forgery. Saturday, Jan. 7

12:22 p.m. Lakeshore Dr. Vandalism.

1:25 p.m. Solomon Pond Mall/Donald J. Lynch Blvd. Bomb scare.

BPRE. Fraud/forgery.

4:26 p.m. Roundtop Rd. Fraud/ forgery. 6:26 p.m. YATCO/East Main St. Vandalism. 9:55 p.m. The Meadows at Marlborough/Broadmeadow Rd. Vandalism.

Northborough

plin, 58, of 254 Woodland St., West Boylston, for drink alcohol from open container in MV, oper MV with license suspended/revoked, leave scene of property damage, OUI liquor 2nd offense.

6:25 p.m. Francis Gardens Crt. Identity theft.

9:00 p.m. Shrewsbury Green Dr. Identity theft.

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

Westborough

Sunday, Jan. 1

2:25 p.m. Computer Dr. Larceny. Monday, Jan. 2

1:19 a.m. Arrested, Sabrina M. Zonghi, 45, of 314 Main St., Apt. S, Hopedale, for marked lanes violation, OUI-liquor or .08% 3rd offense, no inspection sticker, negligent operation of motor vehicle, possess open container of alcohol in MV. 11:32 a.m. Union St. Burglary/breaking & entering.

10:50 p.m. Valente Dr. Larceny. Tuesday, Jan. 3

8:23 a.m. Turnpike Rd. Burglary/ breaking & entering.

6:48 p.m. Charlestown Meadows Dr. Burglary/breaking & entering.

7:30 p.m. Ambassador Dr. Burglary/ breaking & entering.

Wednesday, Jan. 4

12:49 a.m. Charlestown Meadows Dr. Burglary/breaking & entering.

6:54 p.m. Cottage Pl. Vandalism. Thursday, Jan. 5

6:26 p.m. Valente Dr. B&E in MV. Sunday, Jan. 8

2:01 a.m. Arrested, Wyatt M. Lyons, 26, of 50 Rice Ave., Northborough, for OUI-liquor or .08% 2nd offense, speeding, negligent operation of motor vehicle.

Tuesday, Jan. 10

12:28 p.m. Arrested, Erol Kodjo Brentuo, 32, of 685 Lenox Rd., Brooklyn, N.Y., for identity fraud, utter false document.

9:52 p.m. Arrested, Alexandra Jean DeFranco, 27, of 29 Blake St., Apt. A, Westborough, on warrants.

10:44 p.m. Charlestown Meadows Dr. Larceny.

Wednesday, Jan. 11

9:55 p.m. Arrested, Eliezer Rosario Castillo, 18, of 25 Wall St., Apt. 2, Worcester, for carry dangerous weapon - to wit sword, carry dangerous weapon - to wit 2”+ knife blade, negligent operation of motor vehicle, possess open container of alcohol in MV, speeding.

Marlborough

Thursday, Jan. 5

8:42 a.m. Wayland Millwork Corp/ BPRE. B&E into MV.

10:00 a.m. Marlborough Hospital/ Union St. Assault.

2:21 p.m. The Meadows at Marlbor-

6:44 p.m. Bolton Street Tavern/ Bolton St. Vandalism.

10:12 p.m. Hyatt Village East Apts/ Curtis Ave. Larceny.

11:59 p.m. Royal Crest Apartments/ Royal Crest Dr. Fraud/forgery.

Sunday, Jan. 8

2:07 a.m. Arrested, Luis SandovalMorano, 36, of 107 Broad St., Marlborough, on true warrant.

4:12 p.m. Highland St. Burglary/B&E past.

5:46 p.m. Arrested, Patrick Mikhael Sweeney, 29, of 65 River Rd. W, Berlin, for vandalize property (2 cts), MV lights violation, assault with dangerous weapon, disorderly conduct, carry dangerous weapon.

Monday, Jan. 9

9:47 a.m. Digital Federal Credit Union/Donald J. Lynch Blvd. Fraud/ forgery.

4:13 p.m. Jentek Sensors/Bartlett St. MVA with injuries.

Tuesday, Jan. 10

3:48 p.m. TD Bank/East Main St. Fraud/forgery.

8:34 p.m. Walgreen’s/Granger Blvd. Fraud/forgery.

Wednesday, Jan. 11

9:14 a.m. Arrested, Mauricio Chaves Coelho, 37, of 115A Broadmeadow Rd., Apt. 4, Marlborough, on warrant. 10:00 a.m. Pleasant Court Condo “B Bldg”/Pleasant St. Auto theft. 10:45 a.m. Cider Hill Condominiums/

Monday, Jan. 2

1:29 a.m. Arrested, Milgiam S. Orellana Recinos, 37, of 8 Royal Crest Dr., Apt. 3, Marlborough, for negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08%, marked lanes violation.

Tuesday, Jan. 3

4:29 p.m. East Main St. Vandalism.

Shrewsbury

Friday, Jan. 6

8:51 a.m. Arrested , Lisa M. Zschuschen, 43, of 12 Anglin Ln., Shrewsbury, on warrant.

10:19 a.m. Bow St. Illegal dumping.

Saturday, Jan. 7

9:26 a.m. Maple Ave. Identity theft.

Sunday, Jan. 8

3:52 a.m. Arrested, Joseph Leonard Barbour, 35, of 20 Rice Ln., Unit 3, Worcester, for OUI liquor 2nd offense, marked lanes violation, operation to endanger.

Monday, Jan. 9

2:11 p.m. Holden St. Illegal dumping.

5:46 p.m. Arrested, Luis Souza, 47, of 44 Coral St., Worcester, for unlicensed operation of MV, improper turn, warrant.

Tuesday, Jan. 10

4:49 p.m. Bumblebee Cir. Identity theft.

5:07 p.m. Main St. Accident with injury.

5:27 p.m. Arrested, Danette M. Du-

Grafton

Monday, Dec. 26

6:03 p.m. Mass Pike E. Accident –personal injury.

Tuesday, Dec. 27

11:31 a.m. Orchard St. Larceny/theft. Thursday, Dec. 29

11:10 a.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/ identity theft.

Friday, Dec. 30

3:24 p.m. Upton St. Larceny/theft. Saturday, Dec. 31

12:57 p.m. Worcester St. Accident –personal injury.

Sunday, Jan. 1

1:35 p.m. N Main St. Trespassing. Monday, Jan. 2

4:13 p.m. Taft Mill Rd. Fire – HAZMAT spill.

10:37 p.m. Providence Rd. Assault.

Wednesday, Jan. 4

11:30 p.m. Arrested, Kayla P. Magill, 29, of 172 Pleasant St., South Grafton, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle.

Friday, Jan. 6.

1:17 p.m. Depot St. Larceny/theft.

4:42 p.m. Providence Rd./Cross St. Accident – personal injury.

Saturday, Jan. 7

2:23 a.m. Arrested, Joseph D. PabonGonzalez, 23, of 10 Harrison St., Apt. 2, Natick, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, marked lanes.

ON A MISSION Answers on page

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.

COMMUNITY BUSINESS

Dr. Emily S. Eleftheriou joins Modern Dentistry of Shrewsbury

By Kathryn Acciari Contributing Writer

SHREWSBURY – Modern Dentistry of Shrewsbury announces the addition of Dr. Emily S. Eleftheriou to its team. Dr. Eleftheriou joins husbandand-wife team Dr. Mehdi Karimipour and Dr. YiChen Wei in Modern Dentistry’s mission to deliver state-of-the-art dental care for patients’ exceptional oral health.

Dr. Eleftheriou is a general dentist with a focus on prosthetics and cosmetic dentistry. She focuses on restoring her patients’ functionality and their appearance.

“We all want our teeth to look as natural as possible; the best type of cosmetic dentistry is the one that no one can discern,” said Dr. Eleftheriou. “We restore and protect teeth with esthetic crowns and white fillings when indicated. We address dental pain and replace missing teeth. We treat the whole person and address their feelings about their self-image and functionality.”

Dr. Eleftheriou decided to pursue a career in dentistry after her own experience with her dentist, who inspired her with the possibility of helping other people overcome their dental

challenges.

After moving to the United States, Dr. Eleftheriou attended Smith College, achieving a Bachelor of Arts in Neuroscience and Biology. She went on to earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery at New York University College of Dentistry and a postgraduate degree in General Practice Residency at St. Barnabas College. In 2011, she earned the FAGD Award, being recognized as a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry.

“I adore the art and science of dentistry,” said Eleftheriou. “My field allows me to restore my patients’ health along with their confidence and smile. I enjoy working with people and finding ways to address their

Custom Color Interiors celebrates seventh anniversary

SHREWSBURY - Custom Color Interiors, which is based in Shrewsbury, is celebrating its seventh anniversary.

Owner Nicholas Teti said that he and his team pride themselves on professionalism, excellence and timeliness.

“We are fast, efficient and honest,” said Teti. “Custom Color Interior Painting has become a reputable and wellknown painting service in Southborough, Westborough and surrounding towns.”

According to Teti, at Custom Color Interiors, they specialize in interior painting and cabinet refinishing, which he said on average is about 10% of a full remodel.

“Our team is up for every job, managing projects with

the skill and experience our clients have come to expect,” Teti said. “We want our customers to be satisfied with our work, which is why we provide open communication channels throughout the duration if each project.”

Interested clients can contact Custom Color Interiors at 508-745-7190. Visit https:// customcolorinteriors.com/ for more information.

concerns.”

All three of the dental practitioners at Modern Dentistry place a focus on the cosmetic aspect of dentistry while eliminating dental pain, improving chewing function, and improving patients’ well-being.

The dentists frequently consult with each other to coordinate patient care. Dr. Wei is an endodontist and focuses on resolving patients’ tooth pain. Tooth pain originates at the root level, and much of her work involves the inside of the tooth.

“My specialty allows me to use state-of-the-art instrumentation to help the patient,” said Wei. “We use microscopes, ultrasonics, and 3-D technologies to perform root procedures. It is rewarding to provide pain relief to the patients at this level.”

Dr. Mehdi specializes in prosthodontics and maxillofacial prosthetics. For example, he can construct an obturator to replace part of the mouth that is missing from cancer removal. He also works with patients in need of implants, bridges or dentures to return them to normal functionality.

“His is a rare specialty that is in high demand,” said Wei. “Dr. Mehdi restores and rebuilds dental and facial deformation due to congenital abnormalities, oral cancer, and accidents. He works with other medical professionals to restore the jaw, eyes, ears — all aspects of the face.”

With the pandemic leveling off, patients are coming back to the office and addressing overdue dental needs that have arisen.

“The difference between healthy teeth and painful or damaged teeth is night and

day,” said Dr. Eleftheriou.“Gum disease and tooth issues can affect the whole body; it is important that we educate our patients and work with them to improve their quality of life.”

Dr. Eleftheriou praised the staff at Modern Dentistry.

“The assistants here are attentive and easy to work with,” said Dr. Eleftheriou. “And we

have a talented lab technician who takes the time to match prosthetic pieces with each patient’s other teeth.”

Dr. Eleftheriou is invested in building long-term relationships with her patients and welcomes new patients.

“My patients are like family to me,” said Dr. Eleftheriou. “Our relationships aren’t just clinical; my patients feel comfortable talking to me. I want our community to know that if they are looking for a new dental home, Modern Dentistry of Shrewsbury could be the one. I like to get to know the whole person, and I invite potential patients to come in and get to know us.”

Visit Modern Dentistry at shrewsburydentist.com/.

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

Dr. Emily S. Eleftheriou has joined Modern Dentistry of Shrewsbury.

Dr. Mehdi Karimipour, Cosmetic Dentist/Prosthodontist

Dr. Jenn Wei, Endodontist

Nicholas Teti is the owner of Custom Color Interiors.

Marlborough gymnastics defeats Shrewsbury in tri-meet

By Caroline Gordon Reporter

MARLBOROUGH - The Marlborough High School varsity gymnastics team came out on top during a tri-meet on Jan. 11.

Marlborough and Hudson did not face off against each other, but both teams competed against Shrewsbury.

Marlborough won with a score of 130.35, Shrewsbury finished with a score of 129.95

and Hudson finished with a score of 128.90.

According to Marlborough Head Coach Samantha Kelley, her team claimed victory because their floor rotation was “the best and most consistent” routine of the night.

Kelley highlighted senior captain Kaeleigh Salmon, who scored the highest on the vault, beam and floor.

Competing against Shrewsbury is fun for the Panthers because of their solid sportsmanship, Kelley said.

“Shrewsbury will cheer for our girls because everybody wants to win because they did their best. Shrewsbury is always good with their ability to keep focus on themselves, but also cheering on the other team,” she said.

“And, I know our girls do the

same,” Kelley added.

Hudson Head Coach Danielle Mauro said being defeated by Shrewsbury was tough, but the team is preparing by working out and resting before the next meet on Jan. 28 — where it will face off against Marlborough.

Marlborough looks ahead to the rest of the season

Marlborough’s team is made up of students from the high school, Nashoba and Advanced Math & Science Academy.

Kelley said the older gymnasts have “set the tone” for the season.

“The older girls from all of the schools help bond the younger girls who maybe don’t have relationships with the girls from the other schools,”

she said.

The Panthers train hard at Jean’s Gymnastics where they practice four days per week and work on perfecting their skills by repeating their vault, beam and floor routines, according to Kelley.

This season, the Panthers have been honing their skills on the beam because, as Kelley described it, this is the “make it or break it event.”

“The girls are pretty motivated to try beams. As we go through the season, we can hopefully pull out some bigger numbers and better routines,” she said.

The Marlborough team aims to place within the top three at the league meet.

“We are crossing our fingers that we make it to sectionals after that,” she said.

Left: A Marlborough gymnast competes on the beam.

Above: A Hudson gymnast competes during the tri-meet with Hudson, Marlborough and Shrewsbury.

PHOTOS/CAROLINE GORDON

By Caroline Gordon Reporter

SHREWSBURY - Before he could walk, Ian Butterfield was watching his father Charlie Butterfield coach the David Prouty High School track team.

“I remember the high school athletes at the time throwing me on the high jump mats,” Ian said.

Now, years later Ian himself is the boys varsity indoor track coach at Shrewsbury High School. He was recently named the 2021-2022 MIAA coach of the year among the 27 Massachusetts high school coaches.

“To me it is just a recognition of our program as a whole. Our staff is amazing and I am fortunate to work with great kids,” Ian said.

A family tradition

In high school, Ian said he ran the 400 x 400 meter relay race and grew to love the sport.

Butterfield recalled a fond memory of running the 4 x 400 meter relay race with his teammates and finishing the race in three minutes and 35 seconds.

“It was pretty good at the time, but I have had athletes run a 3:24 here, so they are really good,” he said.

When he was in high school, Charlie timed his track meets, which he said allowed him to grow closer with his son.

“Then, he started timing with me,” Charlie said.

According to Charlie, Ian’s career as a teacher and coach “happened naturally.” He shaped himself into the coach he is today, Charlie said.

Ian, who is a physical education teacher at Shrewsbury High School and assistant foot-

ball coach, began his coaching career as the assistant rowing coach in 1998 while he was a student teacher.

He then began coaching the outdoor boys track team as well as the indoor track team. However, after 10 years, he took a break from coaching indoor track to spend more time with his family. He returned to coach the team last year.

The small victories that the athletes enjoy each day is what makes him excited to be back with the team.

“Small gains lead up to big accomplishments at the end of the season,” he said.

Ian said the greatest piece of advice he received from his father is to “never give up on a kid” because high school athletes improve at different levels.

He said he tries to provide

the best program for his athletes and is constantly “on a mission to make every kid better.”

“I try to get them to the end of their senior year, ahead of where they came in,” he said.

Ian added, “I love everything about track. There is something for everyone.”

Ian passes on his own words of wisdom to the Shrewsbury track team.

“Any sport, it doesn’t matter what it is, you are in the spotlight. You got that one chance, that one race, that one moment. We just try to have them be in that moment and do whatever they need to do to perform and thrive and not just survive,” he said.

Butterfield added, however, that he teaches his athletes “no moment is bigger than them, unless they make it that way.”

Coach of the year Shrewsbury High School Athletic Director Jason Costa nominated him for the award.

Costa said he nominated Ian because of his passion for track and field and his ability to build relationships with his team.

“His new ideas and philosophies he uses with his athletes allows for them to develop into fine young men. These skills are all lifelong lessons,” he said.

Ian said, “It’s really, really humbling that someone would take the time to recognize me and the fact that the MIAA selected me is just awesome.”

Charlie said his son being named MIAA coach of the year is an honor that is welldeserved.

“He did a great job,” he said. The captains of the track team said Ian is deserving of the recognition.

Niko Manolkos said his recognition was “necessary” because he “puts the work in day in and day out.”

Declan Daley said Ian being named a MIAA coach of the year is a “testament to the whole program.”

“He is an innovative coach. He’s helping move the sport forward,” Daley said.

Ian Butterfield smiles with his MIAA coach of the year plaque. Ian and his father Charlie smile for a photo together at Shrewsbury High School’s indoor track.

PHOTOS/CAROLINE

GORDON