CA 221007

Temporary traffic, safety committee

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH - The Board of Select men has established a temporary traffic and safety committee.

Approved Sept. 26, the committee was charged to return to the selectmen in no more than six months with a recommen dation whether to form a permanent com mittee, including ideas for its membership and charge.

The temporary committee will be made up of five residents, one selectman and one Planning Board member.

It was approved with a 3-2 vote with Selectmen Jason Perreault and Scott Rogers voting against.

During the meeting, residents advo cated for the formation of the committee. Suzanne Cieslica said with Northbor

Shrewsbury native competes on ‘The Voice’

By Caroline Gordon Reporter

SHREWSBURY - From singing with the Shrewsbury High School Acapella Choir to now performing on “The Voice,” Cara Brindisi continues to follow “the greatest honor of her life.”

Brindisi said she enjoys singing be cause of the way it impacts others.

“Whether it’s an audience of 100 or 1000, or I am doing my work as a music therapist… To be able to be a vehicle [for music] is the greatest honor of my life,” she said.

Meet Cara Brindisi

Brindisi first picked up a microphone when she was two years old. When she was seven, Brindisi began taking sing ing lessons and participating in musical theater camp.

As she grew older and entered Shrewsbury High School, she became involved with the Acapella Choir, the school Brindisi | 12

Board of Health proposes changes to plastic reduction bylaw

By Maureen Sullivan Senior Reporter

WESTBOROUGH - Residents will have another chance to decide on a plastic reduction bylaw at the fall Town Meeting. Westborough currently has a bylaw on

the books outlawing single-use plastic check out bags. Changes to that bylaw went before Town Meeting in the spring to have it address plastic reduction in general. It was petitioned by Zero Waste Westborough and ultimately referred to the Board of Health.

Home Equity Line of Credit

With

Special

inside!

Cara Brindisi performs in front of The Voice audience.

The Medicare Advantage Annual Enrollment Period begins October 15, 2022.

Choose Quality Coverage.

Choose Quality Coverage.

> Bernie Westerling, M.D. Member Since 2022

There’s a better Medicare Advantage plan for you out there.

There’s a better Medicare Advantage plan for you out there.

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Register today for one of the Mass Advantage Informational Seminars below.

Register today for one of the Mass Advantage Informational Seminars below.

Auburn Auburn/ Webster Elks

Uxbridge

Auburn Auburn/ Webster Elks

754 Southbridge St.

October 20, 10 a.m. October 27, 2 p.m.

754 Southbridge St. October 20, 10 a.m. October 27, 2 p.m.

Tri-River Family Health Center

281 E Hartford Ave.

Uxbridge Tri-River Family Health Center

October 25, 10 a.m.

281 E Hartford Ave. October 25, 10 a.m.

Westboro Westborough

Westboro Westborough Hampton Inn

Worcester Worcester Business Center

Hampton Inn

15 Connector Rd.

October 17, 2 p.m. October 27, 10 a.m.

15 Connector Rd. October 17, 2 p.m. October 27, 10 a.m.

67 Millbrook St.

Worcester Worcester Business Center

October 20, 2 p.m. October 25, 2 p.m.

67 Millbrook St. October 20, 2 p.m. October 25, 2 p.m.

Virtual via Zoom October 18, 4 p.m. November 8, 4 p.m.

Virtual via Zoom

October 18, 4 p.m. November 8, 4 p.m.

Not able to make a meeting in person? We also have virtual seminars. Visit MassAdvantage.com/Seminars2023 for more information.

Not able to make a meeting in person? We also have virtual seminars. Visit MassAdvantage.com/Seminars2023 for more information.

Visit MassAdvantage.com/FindOutMore to register and view the full schedule of Informational Seminars or call our Benefit Information Center to schedule a one-on-one conversation with a Mass Advantage Medicare Solutions Advisor at 844-513-0529 (TTY:711)

Visit MassAdvantage.com/FindOutMore to register and view the full schedule of Informational Seminars or call our Benefit Information Center to schedule a one-on-one conversation with a Mass Advantage Medicare Solutions Advisor at 844-513-0529 (TTY:711)

Representatives are available October 1 – March 31, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., 7 days a week and April 1 – September 30, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday – Friday

Representatives are available October 1 – March 31, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., 7 days a week and April 1 – September 30, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday – Friday

*Premium and coverage may vary based on plan selection. For a complete list of benefits, visit MassAdvantage.com. Mass Advantage is a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract offering HMO and PPO plans. Enrollment in Mass Advantage depends on contract renewal. Other providers and physicians are available in our network. For accommodation of persons with special needs at meetings, please call 844-514-0674 TTY:711.

*Premium and coverage may vary based on plan selection. For a complete list of benefits, visit MassAdvantage.com. Mass Advantage is a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract offering HMO and PPO plans. Enrollment in Mass Advantage depends on contract renewal. Other providers and physicians are available in our network. For accommodation of persons with special needs at meetings, please call 844-514-0674 TTY:711.

Police arrest man in catalytic converter theft A look back at the Svea Gille in Shrewsbury

By Caroline Gordon Reporter

SHREWSBURY - A Springfield man faces charges after steal ing a catalytic converter at the Hills Farm Industrial Complex Sept. 27.

At about 12 a.m., an officer was patrolling the complex, which is located at Hartford Turnpike at Cherry Street, due to recent catalytic converter thefts in the area. In a press release, Shrewsbury police said the officer found evidence of a stolen converter and one partially removed catalytic converter.

According to Shrewsbury Police, additional officers were called to the scene, including a K-9 unit, to track the suspect. Police reportedly located a man wearing all black, who

they said ran when he was ap proached.

Officers then chased the suspect on foot into the Estes Express parking lot where he was apprehended. Officers said a tool to remove catalytic converters was recovered.

Reynaldo Martinez, 57, of Springfield, is charged with lar ceny over $1,200, possession of a burglarious instrument, ma licious destruction of property, conspiracy and trespassing.

This comes after police in neighboring communities have cautioned residents about an uptick in catalytic converter thefts.

In late August, Westborough police charged three peo ple after responding to a report that someone was attempting to steal a catalytic converter at the Arrive apartments.

By Michael Perna Jr. Shrewsbury History Columnist

SHREWSBURY - Of the many social and ethnic clubs that once lined the shores of Lake Quinsigamond, probably the most elab orate quarters were those of the Svea Gille.

SHREWSBURY THEN NOW

This club had its quarters on what is now South Quinsigamond Avenue, just opposite Oak Street.

An elaborate document dated June 28, 1894 was used to incorporate the club. The club’s officers were listed as Axel Hageby, Charles Johnson, Isaac Malmstedt, Ferdinand Flodin, Axel Hannson, Charles Beck, Sven Hanson, John Old sen Adolph Romborg and Gus taf Lindfors.

The group was formed “for the purpose of encouraging

This photo shows the Svea Gille on the shores of Lake Quinsigamond.

athletic exercises and yachting, prosecuting literary and musi cal purposes, and establishing and maintaining places for reading rooms, libraries and social meetings for the mutual improvement of its members.”

The Svea Gille ceased op erations in the 1970s, when the

building was taken over by the Ancient Order of Hibernians. Still later, the building became home to the Quinsigamond Athletic Association, known locally as the QAC Club. Eventually, the building was torn down and replaced by a condominium complex.

Not All Wines Are Vegan

While it may be counter-intuitive, not all wines are vegan. In America, to be considered Vegan, wines must be produced without any animal products whatsoever. The basic wine-making steps of harvesting, crushing, fermentation, and aging are typically the same for all wines. So what makes some wines not vegan? Differences may occur with the fertilizers used on the grape vines as well as the addition of fining agents during the wine-making process. Some producers use animal-based fertilizers and many winemakers use fining products such as egg whites and gelatin to improve the clarity of the wine. Fining agents clump tiny particles that occur naturally in the wine. By contrast, vegan winemakers use no animal products from planting to bottling.

To learn more about the vegan wines we have on stock at JULIO’S LIQUORS, stop by our store at 140 Turnpike Rd., Rt. 9 East, or call 508-366-1942. If you’re a vegan but don’t care for wine, consider that vegan alcohol includes spirits, beer, wine and cider which are free from animal products. Our Spirits department carries many hard-to-find items from single malt scotches to high-end vodkas and gins.

HINT: There are no formal regulations by American authorities that require wine labels to specify what type of fining agent was used in winemaking.

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Live show every Saturday, 11 am on WCRN AM830

Or catch rebroadcasts on WCRN AM830 every weekday at 7 pm after Howie Carr!

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Ryan Maloney, owner

Library workshop helps families learn about racism

By Maureen Sullivan Senior Reporter

NORTHBOROUGH - Grace and Washburn Millette listened to music by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong while drawing self-portraits.

They also talked about ice bergs and the Disney character Doc McStuffins, and what it feels like when something is unfair.

They were part of a workshop on racism at the Northbor ough Free Library on Saturday, Sept. 24. Although designed for elementary-aged children, the adults got something out of it, too.

“I love it,” said their mother, Amanda Millette. “It’s hard to think about racism. I brought them here so they can learn.”

The workshop was facilitated by Francie Latour of Wee the People, a Boston-based social justice project for children ages four to 12. She started off by say ing children should not be set aside when serious topics such as racism are discussed among

adults.

“I think kids are pretty smart,” said Latour. “Kids know more than anyone else when something is unfair.”

Latour asked the children when they felt they were treated unfairly. This led to a discus sion on what racism means — “when people aren’t treated the same way” because of the color of their skin or other factors.

She added that racism is a complex problem: “Sometimes

it’s easy to spot, sometimes not.”

This is where the icebergs come in. Latour explained that we often identify others by what they can see — the tip of the iceberg — without knowing what’s below the surface.

Latour then read from “Our Skin: A First Conversation about Race” by Jessica Ralli and Me gan Madison, one of several books Latour brought for the workshop.

She said the color of our skin

is based on a chemical called melanin, which acts as a natural sunscreen. She said Black people like herself have more melanin because her ancestors come from Africa, “where it’s sunny and really, really hot.”

She explained that some where along the way, white people began to say they were better and smarter than every one else.

“They kept telling that story for a long, long time,” she said.

Latour said that racism de veloped by rules such as segre gation, ideas and “that it was done for a long time.”

“It could be done on purpose, or by mistake,” she said. “Racism still happens.”

That’s when the discussion turned to protests against rac ism. Latour encouraged her au dience to yell “That’s not right” and “Black Lives Matter.”

Afterward, Latour spread out some coloring books and markers, and encouraged the audience to draw and ask ques tions about racism.

Latour co-founded Wee the People in 2015 with Tanya Nix on-Silberg. Latour is a racial justice educator, facilitator and children’s book author whose work focuses on race, culture and identity. A mother of three, Latour is currently the director of the office of diversity, equity and inclusion at Inly School, a Montessori preK to grade eight school in Scituate.

For information on Wee the People, visit https://www.wee thepeopleboston.org/.

PHOTOS/MAUREEN

SULLIVAN

Francie Latour of Wee the People, right, joins members of the Millette family in drawing self-portraits, part of the family workshop on racism at the Northborough Library on Saturday, Sept. 24.

Francie Latour of Wee the People talks about racism during a workshop for families held at the Northborough Library on Saturday, Sept. 24.

Electric vehicle event on Oct.

WESTBOROUGH -

Want to know more about electric vehicles?

Come to the “Get Charged Up” regional EV Expo on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2-5 p.m. at Ama zon Robotics, 50 Otis Street.

“The purpose of the event is to provide a gathering place for visitors to have oneon-one conversations with neighbors who own electric vehicles, ask about their experi ences and share their knowledge,” said Sha rad Mehta, chair of the Westborough Rotary Club’s Committee of the Environment.

Organizers expect to have all of the models of Teslas, a Chevy Bolt, a Nissan Leaf, a Toyota RAV4 Prime, a VW ID4, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Polestar, Hyundai, Kia and other makes and models.

There will also be an array of e-bikes, as well as vehicles from the Westborough and Hopkinton police departments.

Those who own electric vehicles are invited. They are asked to visit sustaina

blewestborough.org/ev-fair and send along information about the make and model of their electric vehicles.

In addition, visitors may take a ride in an EV and gather information from vendors.

Sponsors include Sustainable Westborough, Sustainable Northborough, the Rotary Club of Westborough and the Hopkinton Sustainable Green Committee.

Rain date is Saturday, Oct. 22.

For information, visit sustainablewestbor ough.org/ev-fair.

Board of Health proposes changes to plastic reduction bylaw

Plastics | from page 1

During the Select Board meeting on Sept. 27, Board of Health Chair Alan Ehrlich, presented updates to the bylaw.

There were several changes made after the board used an information session to reach out to local busi nesses this summer.

Specifically, under the section “Purpose and Intent,” “thin film plastic bags” was changed to “sin gle use plastics.” Under the use regulations, grocery stores and retail stores will be required to use biodegradable materials for their dine-out services — such as the utensils, sauce containers and takeout containers — when such an alternative exists.

The bylaw is meant to reduce the use of single-use plastics, which “have significant impacts on the en vironment, including, but not lim ited to, contributing to the potential death of aquatic and land animals through ingestion and entangle ment; contributing to pollution of the natural environment; creating a burden to solid waste collection and recycling facilities; clogging storm

drainage systems; and requiring the use of millions of barrels of crude oil nationally for their manufacture.”

Should the bylaw pass at Town Meeting, there will be a six-month period before the bylaw takes effect.

Ehrlich said that businesses are not opposed to the bylaw, but they are concerned about supply chain, costs, policing and reliability of biodegradable materials.

He added that should the bylaw pass, the Board of Health will reach out to local businesses to provide education about the new regula tions.

“Westborough tries to be a green community,” said Ehrlich.

Westborough recently approved other changes to the bylaw during spring Town Meeting that requires all bags given out at stores to be re usable or made of recyclable paper. The state attorney general’s office struck down a portion of the bylaw that would have charged a manda tory fee for all bags.

Town Meeting will convene on Oct. 17 at 7 p.m. at Westborough High School. If needed, there will be a second night on Oct. 18.

An old Cherokee is teaching his grandson about life. “A fight is going on inside me,” he said to the boy.

“It is a terrible fight, and it is between two wolves. One is evilhe is anger, envy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority and ego.”

He continued. “The other is good - he is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion and faith. The same fight is going on inside you - and inside every other person, too.”

The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather, “Which wolf will win?”

The old Cherokee simply replied, “The one you feed.”

An electric vehicle sits on display outside the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Westborough during last year’s event.

PHOTO/DAKOTA

ANTLEMAN

Seniors on the

BENEFITS OF OUTDOOR LIVING

Getting out in the fresh air can improve everyone’s health, but is especially important for seniors for several reasons. The most obvious benefit is physical health. People are more likely to be active, walking, jogging, and bird watching when they are outdoors and away from the lure of their favorite couch or armchair. Mental health can also be greatly improved by time spent outside. Anxiety and depression, both considerable problems in the elderly, are experienced less often by those who regularly spend time outside, and they also tend to have more energy and fewer sleeping problems. Low levels of vitamin D is another senior issue that can be combated by being outside even when the sun is not strong.

Being outside in nature makes you feel more alive and provides a greater sense of energy and vitality, which can

help make you more resilient to illness. Spending time outdoors may also boost your memory. One study found a 20-percent improvement in attention span and memory after spending just one hour in a natural environment. To find out more about our long-term care center, please call NOTRE DAME LONG TERM

CARE CENTER at (508) 852-3011 We are located at 559 Plantation Street

P.S. Not a fan of outdoor aerobic activities? Consider gardening, taking the dog to the dog park, or nature watching.

MariAnn Paladino, Dir. of Admissions, Notre Dame Health Care Center, Inc.

Long Term Care Center 559 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 508.852.3011

Notre Dame

Health Care

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MariAnn Paladino, Director of

Lions Club hosting Peace Poster, Youth Speech contests

WESTBOROUGH -The West borough Lions Club is once again hosting its annual Peace Poster Contest for middle school-aged students, and its Youth Speech Contest for high school students.

Westborough has produced state-level winners in both contests in recent years.

The Peace Poster contest is designed for students be tween the ages of 11 and 13 to express their visions of

peace and inspire the world through their art and creativ ity. This year’s poster theme is “Lead with Compassion.” Each poster will be judged on three criteria: artistic merit, originality and expression of the theme.

There are four levels of competition — local, district, state and international. Mon etary awards will be given at each level.

The deadline to enter the

Westborough contest is Fri day, Oct. 14. The winner will be selected by Saturday, Nov. 5. All entries will be displayed at the Westborough Pub lic Library the week of Nov. 1. More information on the contest and details on how to register can be found on the Peace Poster page on the club’s website, westboroughlion sclub.org.

The Youth Speech Contest will be held on Tuesday, Nov.

Main Street Bank hires lender senior vice president

MARLBOROUGH - Main Street Bank has announced that Carl Flumerfelt has accepted the position of senior vice president commercial lender, effective Aug. 15.

Flumerfelt will be supporting Main Street Bank’s Commercial Loan Department by connecting with new and existing business customers. Using his years of ex perience in commercial banking, Flumerfelt will work closely with clients to understand their busi

ness and how the appropriate business loan option will work to support their day-to-day functions and growth.

While his office is based in the bank’s Ayer location, Flumerfelt will be the first of the bank’s commercial lending team to be available via its video banking service to meet with and serve business clients from virtually anywhere.

Flumerfelt comes to Main Street Bank after 35 years of

service at Winchester Savings Bank. Flumerfelt earned asso ciate’s and bachelor’s degrees from Bentley University and his master’s from Babson College. He also has experience as a CRA officer, a regulation officer, and a bank corporator and executive committee member.

Flumerfelt can be contacted directly at 351-213-0391 or at cflumerfelt@bankmainstreet. com. To learn more, visit Bank MainStreet.com.

29. It is designed for high school-aged students residing in Westborough to provide a platform for them to hone their public speaking skills. Each student will deliver a 5-8-minute speech on this year’s topic: “Environmental Crisis: Fact or Fiction?” There are five levels of competition –local, zone, region, district and state, with monetary prizes at each level, culminating in a $1,000 district-level prize and

a $1,500 award to the student chosen as the “Best in State.” Three judges will evaluate each speech on delivery, ef fectiveness and text.

The deadline to enter this contest is Friday, Nov. 4. More information on the contest and details on how to enter can be found at http://west boroughlionsclub.org/, as well as on the State Youth Speech website, http://lionsyouth speech.org/.

Health sponsors

NATICK - Come take a walk with a Red Sox legend.

Eternal Health will present “The Big Papi International Walk” on Monday, Oct. 10, at Natick Mall on Route 9. Registration will begin at 9:30 a.m., and the event will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The event will feature a mall stroll with David Ortiz and Eternal Health COO Pooja Ika, health and nutrition tips, refresh ments and more.

Ortiz is the spokesman for Eternal Health, which offers Medicare Advantage plans for Suffolk, Middlesex and Worcester counties.

To RSVP, email info@eternalhealth.com or call 800-464-7198.

Westborough Shopping Center

CONVENIENT TO ROUTES 9, 495 AND THE MASS PIKE

NOW LEASING

St.

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

SOUTHBOROUGH - With Southborough’s Town Meeting

set to convene next week, here’s a look at what’s on the warrant.

The warrant features a total of 13 articles, including two citizen petitions regarding flags and St. Mark’s triangle.

One of the articles was peti tioned by Debbie DeMuria and Rebecca Deans-Rowe seeks to limit the placement of flags to be consistent with preserva tion guidelines for municipal ly-owned burial grounds and cemeteries, according to the warrant.

Specifically, it asks for Town Meeting to request that the Se lect Board restrict the placement of flags in the Old Burial Ground to the American flag flown on a single, existing and permanent pole. It would remove all addi tional flags on raised flagpoles, but it would not apply to indi vidual grave markers.

The second citizens peti tion, which was proposed by

tree protection bylaw on Southborough warrant

DeMuria and Kevin Farrington, would authorize the Select Board to accept a gift of land from St. Mark’s School that is commonly known as the St. Mark’s triangle.

One of the articles proposed by the Planning Board would add a tree protection bylaw to the section of the chapter re

garding trees.

“The intent of the bylaw is to put in place a process for the maintenance of Public Shade Trees, including but not limited to, trimming, cutting, planting and the removal of dangerous or damaged trees within the public right of way, and to pro tect the town from unnecessary

tree removal and to maintain the New England character and charm of the Town of Southbor ough,” the warrant reads.

Other articles on the warrant will provide funding to rent vot ing clickers for electronic vot ing for the 2023 Annual Town Meeting and require advanced notice for any new bylaw pro

posed through a citizen’s peti tion.

The warrant can be found at https://www.southbor oughtown.com/sites/g/files/ vyhlif7351/f/pages/2022.10.13_ stm_warrant_0.pdf.

Town Meeting will take place on Oct. 13 at 7 p.m. at Trottier Middle School.

A look at Grafton’s Fall Town Meeting warrant

By Maureen Sullivan Senior Reporter

GRAFTON - Changes to onstreet parking street parking, marijuana regulations and a chance to obtain more open space, will be part of the 18-arti cle fall Town Meeting Warrant.

Town Meeting will take place Monday, Oct. 17, at 7 p.m. at the high school auditorium.

One of the articles will ask residents to authorize the Select Board to negotiate with proper ty owners for temporary or per manent easements necessary to

replace the bridge at Fitzpatrick Road over Cronin Brook.

Another pertains to offstreet parking, particularly in the Grafton Common Historic District.

One of the articles requests for amendments to the zoning bylaw on marijuana establish ments, including definitions of marijuana courier and mari juana delivery operator.

Five articles are being spon sored by the Community Pres ervation Committee.

One requests up to $300,000 in Community Preservation Act

(CPA) funds for the purchase lots at 173 and 183 Upton St. which would be preserved for open space and passive recre ation. A second asks for $2,500 from CPA funds to create a base line report for the conservation restriction for 173 and 183 Upton Street that will be held by the Grafton Land Trust.

A third request for $95,000 would help pay for the instal lation of outdoor bathrooms, including a septic system, for the Grafton Lions Club Dau phanais Park.

The fourth would use

$685,770 in CPA funds to help create a passive recreation park at 95 North Street, which is part of another article requesting to enter into any agreements to make the park a reality.

The fifth would expend $15,000 from the committee’s historical reserves account to restore Windsor style chairs, a credenza, a library book cart and a step stool currently at the Grafton Public Library.

View the entire warrant at https://www.grafton-ma.gov/ sites/g/files/vyhlif4461/f/up loads/signed_warrant.pdf.

Westborough Office

Temporary traffic, safety committee formed

Traffic | from page 1 ough’s master plan coming into play that it was important to consider forming the com mittee.

Cieslica said it was an issue that was “near and dear” to her after her cousin was killed by a driver when he was 14.

“I’m not just calling to spend money or make work or any of that,” she said. “It’s really something that’s near and dear, especially as my kids want to go to the park or they want to go to Indian Meadow. It’s just tough.”

Chair Mitch Cohen said there have been “a lot of issues” re garding traffic and safety men tioned by residents.

“The idea behind this is let’s move forward with something and let a group of citizens fig ure that out and come back to us with recommendations,” Cohen said.

Selectman Kristen Wixted said she conducted a poll on her Facebook page. It resulted in 31 traffic concerns around North borough and included concerns about pedestrians, bicyclists and automobiles.

“That’s a lot of locations that people are just concerned about their safety or their loved one’s safety or the safety of the school bus that goes by,” she said.

‘Kicks the can down the road’

However, some voiced their concerns. Both Perreault and Rogers said the selectmen didn’t have a clear description of the composition and charge of the committee to vote that evening.

Town Administrator John Coderre voiced concerns about the town resources this commit tee would require as the town is undertaking initiatives and projects involving the White Cliffs Committee, Fire Station Building Committee and Master Plan Implementation Com mittee.

“I’m going to advocate a bit for the people who have called in about traffic concerns,” said Rogers. “Pushing them off to have a committee to determine if we need a committee makes no progress on resolving their reported issues.”

He argued that this tempo rary committee wasn’t a good use of resources.

“If we’re going to work on traffic issues, we should use resources to work on the traffic issues,” Rogers said. “A commit tee to determine whether we’re going to form a committee just

kicks the can down the road.”

Unless a charge with clear responsibilities for a committee was proposed, Rogers said he didn’t have anything to vote on during the meeting.

According to Rogers, there’s a process in place for how people can report traffic and safety vio lations in Northborough. It al lows for public safety and public works staff to review the request

or violation and make an appro priate response, he said.

He said the town should do education to residents on how they can best report those issues to existing town personnel.

“We had attempted to set that [process] up. People are refusing to use it,” Rogers said. “Maybe there’s some problems with usability. But if we use the established processes and we

use the established authorities that have the jurisdiction over those topics, I think we can get something done.”

However, some residents said the current method to provide information isn’t a dia logue. Selectman Julianne Hirsh noted that residents don’t know if other people have voiced simi lar concerns.

Wixted said the selectmen

have been discussing traffic and safety since she began paying attention to their meetings.

“People are still super, super frustrated,” she said. “So, what ever we have in place obviously isn’t working.”

Wixted said the committee was a “one step in the right direction” where residents could have a place to voice their complaints.

The engines roar again at Westboro Speedway reunion

By Maureen Sullivan Senior Reporter

WESTBOROUGH - There’s a story behind every car.

Of converting garages and backyards into an assembly line, finding the right components in junkyards and auto shops, listening to the engine sing or sputter.

And then bringing these modified vehicles to a race way — be it Westborough, Norwood, Lakeville, Orange or Kingston — and putting pedal to the metal.

On Oct. 2, nearly two dozen modifieds, along with posters, photos and plenty of memo ries, assembled in a parking lot across from Julio’s Liquors off Lyman Street.

The day was a celebration of Westboro Speedway, which operated from 1947 to 1985 off Route 9. The RK Speedway Plaza now occupies the spot.

For Maureen Fagan Ames, the event was a chance to tell the story of her late father, Bob, who raced at the Speedway in the early 1960s.

“My dad was my idol,” she said. “For him, it was the thrill of building a race car.”

Fagan Ames displayed sev eral scrapbooks about her fa ther’s racing career, along with his helmet and trophies.

For Mark Alden of the New England Antique Racers (NEAR), the reunion’s a reminder of days gone by.

“In the 50s, 60s and 70s, there were three places to go — the drive-in, the bowling alley and the raceways,” he said.

ProNyne Motorsports Mu seum, the sponsor of the event,

presented an array of posters and photos — held down by bungee cords because of the wind — that chronicled the Speedway’s existence.

“Every car was hand built … that’s why the cars all look dif ferent,” said Ric Marischal, the museum’s curator who’s been active in preserving the sport since 1983.

After years of collecting, Mar

ischal and R.A. Silva opened the museum in a 7,400-square-foot facility on Cleveland Street in Pawtucket, R.I., in 2003.

The museum houses memo rabilia from New England’s racing history, from vintage race cars and trophies to a gift shop, media room and a library.

For information on the mu seum, call 401-447-4202 or 401-739-0039.

The Speedway in days gone by, including a “night before the 4th” event.

PHOTOS/MAUREEN

SULLIVAN

Nearly two dozen “modifieds” — vehicles built by hand — were on display as part of the Westboro Speedway Reunion on Sunday, Oct. 2, at the Westborough Shopping Center.

(Annual Percentage Yield)

for promotional rate

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Brindisi |

1 musicals and the Districts and All State Choir, which she said was “one of her favorite parts of high school.”

After graduating high school, Brindisi attended Berklee Col lege of Music, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in music therapy. She later worked as a hospice music therapist at the Visiting Nurse Association of Boston.

When she’s not in the studio or on the stage, Brindisi said she enjoys spending time with her Australian shepard, Lula, and being in nature.

“I started to do bird photog raphy during the pandemic. It’s kind of nerdy, but I don’t care. It’s so relaxing for me and it’s a huge passion of mine,” she said.

Although Brindisi, who lives in Worcester, has not resided in Shrewsbury since she was 18, she still visits her hometown and participates in community events like performing at the Turkey Trot last year.

Organizer of the Turkey Trot and the Shrewsbury Public

Schools Assistant Superinten dent for Community Partner ships and Well-Being Jane Lizotte said Brindisi is a “kind and generous individual.”

“During this Alzheimer’s awareness and fundraising event, Cara shared with the participants and supporters that she discovered her love of music while spending time with her grandfather, who suf fered from Alzheimer’s disease,”

Lizotte said. “Cara’s dedication and devotion to others is inspi rational.”

Brindisi said that Shrews bury and Central Massachusetts community has been “very sup portive” of her musical career by attending her shows and shar ing her music on social media.

Brindisi hits her biggest stage yet With the dream of making

it big, Brindisi said last fall she attended a virtual audition for “The Voice.” Ultimately, she was named as a contestant on the show.

When Brindisi first arrived in Hollywood, she said she had her sights set on working with coach Blake Shelton. But after she belted out “All Too Well” by Taylor Swift, and Gwen Stefani turned her chair, she couldn’t resist working with

“the queen,” despite Shelton also wanting to coach her.

“There was a lot being pitched to me. I feel like Blake really heard me as a country singer, but Gwen really heard me as more of a female song writer, rock [and] pop artist and that’s more of the vein I am trying to go for,” she said.

Brindisi added, “Also, I am just a really big fan of Gwen Stefani … being in front of her, I was starstruck. My gut was screaming at me to go with Gwen Stefani.”

She said being on “The Voice” taught her a valuable lesson about the music in dustry.

“What you learn quickly when you are out there [on “The Voice” stage] among incredible singers and musi cians is that everyone has their own lane in music. When you can look at that as inspiration as opposed to competition, you really start to feel more settled in your own confidence and your own voice,” she said.

Cara Brindisi performs during the 2021 Shrewsbury Turkey Trot.

PHOTO/DAKOTA ANTELMAN

HOME your Building Your Dream Home Anytime, Anywhere

Family Features

For

most homebuyers, their dream homes are not something they’re likely to find already on the market. With a unique vision of your dream home’s look, location and features, building a custom home is generally the easiest way to make that dream a reality.

To keep things moving as smoothly as possible amid what can be a complicated process, consider these tips as you embark on the journey.

Set a Realistic Budget

You’ll need to start by determining how much you can spend on your house. Typically, the cost of building a home is around $100-$200 per square foot, according to research from HomeAdvisor. You’ll also

While building your budget, consider what items and features are “must-haves” and things that should only be included if your budget allows.

tips to create a comfortable forever home

Top reasons

Homeowners are selling their houses right now

Some people believe there’s a group of homeowners who may be reluctant to sell their houses because they don’t want to lose the historically low mortgage rate they have on their current home. You may even have the same hesitation if you’re thinking about selling your house.

Data shows 51% of homeowners have a mortgage rate under 4% as of April this year. And while it’s true mortgage rates are higher than that right now, there are other non-finan cial factors to consider when it comes to making a move. In other words, your mortgage rate is important, but you may have other things going on in your life that make a move essential, regardless of where rates are today. As Jessica Lautz, Vice President of Demographics and Behavioral Insights at the National Association of Realtors

(NAR), explains:

“Home sellers have histori cally moved when something in their lives changed – a new baby, a marriage, a divorce or a new job. . . .”

So, if you’re thinking about selling your house, it may help to explore the other reasons homeowners are choosing to make a move today. The 2022 Summer Sellers Survey by re altor.com asked recent home sellers why they decided to sell. The visual (above, right) breaks down how those homeowners responded:

As the visual shows, an appetite for different features or the fact that their current home could no longer meet their needs topped the list for recent sellers. Additionally, re-

mote work and whether or not they need a home office or are tied to a specific physical office location also factored in, as did the desire to live close to their loved ones.

The realtor.com survey sum marizes the findings like this:

“The primary reason home owners decided to sell in the last year was the realization that, af ter so much time spent at home, they wanted different features and amenities, such as walkability, outdoor space, pool, etc. . . . ”

If you, like the homeowners they surveyed, find yourself wanting features, space, or amenities your current home just can’t provide, it may be time to consider listing your house for sale.

Even with today’s mortgage rates, your lifestyle needs may be enough to motivate you to make a change. The best way to find out what’s right for you is to partner with a trusted real estate professional who can provide expert guidance and advice throughout the process. They can help walk you through your options, so you can make a confident decision based on what matters most to you and your loved ones.

Bottom Line

While the financial reasons for moving are important, there’s often far more to con sider. Non-financial reasons can also be a significant motivating factor. If you need help weighing the pros and cons of selling your house, let’s connect today.

5 Tips for Organizing Your Home Office

Family Features

W

hen temperatures cool down again, it signals time for an annual tradition: fall cleaning. While big proj ects like windows are hard to overlook, don’t forget smaller areas that need attention, too, such as your home office.

Making sense of a year’s worth of paperwork and clut ter can take some serious time, especially as many people have been working from home more than normal, but getting organized can help you tackle home management tasks more efficiently. Making the office a

priority can reduce frustration when it comes to spending additional time in your office while working from home.

These five tips can help get you started:

1.Make sure you have furni ture that can adequately store your stuff, including plenty of space for files, ref erence books and computer equipment. Pieces need not be costly to be functional and there are plenty of attractive options available online and at both small and major re tailers.

2.Arrange

the space with its intended use and your own work style in mind. For example, if you don’t need ample space to spread out over a large, flat work area, eliminate that space - it’s simply an invitation for clutter.

3.Place items you rely on frequently, such as a calculator or ruler, within arm’s reach so they can easily be put away between uses. Capture these items in containers and bins to keep the space looking neat and free of clutter.

4.Establish a filing system that lets you keep track of important papers you need to keep and have a shredder handy to help you discard any sensitive documents. Whether you alphabetize, color code or use some other method, group paperwork into segments for categories such as bills, banking, health care, auto, insurance and so on for easy access in the future.

5.Tangled cords can make even the most organized

spaces look messy, and they may pose a fire or tripping hazard. Get control of your cords by storing devices you don’t use regularly and securing the remaining cords with twist ties or clips. Remember to use a surge-protected power strip to minimize the chance of damage should a power surge occur. Find more tips to make your workspace tidy and organized at eLivingtoday.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF PEXELS

Source: Family Features

5

Tips

to create a comfortable forever home

need to account for the lot price as well as design fees, taxes, per mits, materials and labor. Mate rials and labor should make up about 75% of the total amount spent, but it’s wise to build in a buffer for price changes and overages. While building your budget, consider what items and features are “must-haves” and things that should only be included if your budget allows.

Identify the Perfect Location

Think about where you’d

like to live and research com parable lots and properties in those areas, which can give you a better idea of costs. Because the features of many dream homes require a wider foot print, you may need to build outside of city limits, which can make natural gas more difficult to access. Consider propane instead, which can do everything natural gas can and go where natural gas cannot or where it is cost prohibitive to run a natural gas line. Propane also reduces dependence on the electrical grid, and a pro pane standby generator can

safeguard your family if there is a power outage.

“As a real estate agent and builder, I have the pleasure of helping families select their dream homes,” said Matt Blashaw, residential contrac tor, licensed real estate agent and host of HGTV’s “Build it Forward.” “The homes we de sign and build are frequently in propane country, or off the natural gas grid. Propane makes it possible to build an affordable and comfortable, high-performing indoor living spaces and dynamic outdoor entertaining areas.”

Keep Universal Design Principles in Mind

Many homebuyers want to ensure their space is accessible to family members and guests both now and for decades to come. As the housing market slows and mortgage rates rise, buyers may look to incorporate features that allow them to age in place. Incorporating principles of universal design - the ability of a space to be under stood, accessed and used by people regardless of their age or ability - can make it possible to still enjoy your home even if

mobility, vision or other chal lenges arise as you age.

For example, the entryway could have a ramp or sloped concrete walkway leading to a front door wide enough to ac commodate a wheelchair with a barrier-free threshold. Inside, wider hallways and doorways, strategic lighting and appli ances installed at lower heights are mainstays of universal design. Counters of varying heights, drop-down cabinet racks and roll-under sinks in kitchens and zero-entry show ers, slip-resistant flooring and grab bars in bathrooms offer enhanced accessibility.

Consider Alternative Energy Sources

With today’s electric grid, more than two-thirds of the energy is wasted; it never reaches homes. Unlike elec tricity, propane is stored in a large tank either above or below ground on the property. A 500-gallon tank can hold enough propane to meet the annual energy needs of an average single-family home - enough to power major sys tems in a home.

Matt Blashaw, residential contractor, licensed real estate agent and host of HGTV’s “Build it Forward.”

Propane pairs well with other energy sources, includ ing grid electricity and on-site solar, which makes it a viable option for dual-energy homes. Like natural gas, propane can power major appliances such as your furnace, water heater, clothes dryer, fireplace, range and standby generator. Often, propane works more efficiently with fewer greenhouse gas emissions than electricity, meaning your home is cleaner for the environment.

Propane can even power a whole-home standby generator, which is often a big selling point. When a homeowner purchases a standby generator, a licensed electrician installs the unit outside the home and wires it to the home’s circuit breaker. When a power outage occurs, the generator auto matically senses the disrup tion of service and starts the generator’s engine, which then delivers power to the home. From the warm, comfortable heat of a propane furnace to the peace of mind offered by a propane standby generator, many homeowners trust pro pane to provide a safe, efficient, whole-home energy solution.

Build a Team of Experts

Hiring the right people can make the process of turning your dream into reality go much smoother. Start by research ing reputable builders, paying special attention to the types of homes they build to find a style that matches what you’re look ing for as well as price ranges for past homes they’ve built. Consider how long the build ers have been in business and if they’re licensed and insured.

Depending on your builder’s capabilities, you may also need to hire an architect or designer. In addition to your real estate

agent to assist with purchasing the lot and selling your previous home, you may need assistance from other professionals, such as a real estate attorney, land scape architect and propane supplier. A local propane sup plier can work with the builder to install a properly sized pro pane storage tank either above or below ground and connect appliances.

Find more ideas for building your dream home at Propane.com.

Propane-Powered Appliances

You may be surprised to learn propane can power major appliances, which can increase the value of a home because of their high per formance, efficiency and reduced dependence on the electrical grid.

Furnace

A propane-powered furnace has a 50% lon ger lifespan than an electric heat pump, reduc ing its overall lifetime costs. Propane-powered residential furnaces also emit up to 50% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than electric fur naces and 12% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than furnaces running on oil-based fuels.

Boiler

Propane boilers have an expected lifespan of up to 30 years, but many can last longer if ser viced and maintained properly. High-efficiency propane boilers offer performance, space sav ings and versatility as well as a significant re duction in carbon dioxide emissions compared to those fueled by heating oil.

Standby Generator

Propane standby generators supply supple mental electricity in as little as 10 seconds after an outage. Plus, propane doesn’t degrade over

time, unlike diesel or gasoline, making it an ideal standby power fuel.

Clothes Dryer

Propane-powered clothes dryers generate up to 42% fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to electric dryers. They also dry clothes faster, which can reduce energy use and cost.

Range

With up to 15% fewer greenhouse gas emis sions compared to electric ranges, propanepowered ranges also allow for greater control of heat levels. Plus, their instant flame turnoff capabilities help them cool faster.

Tankless Water Heater

Propane tankless water heaters have the lowest annual cost of ownership in mixed and cold United States climates when compared with electric water heaters, heat pump water heaters and oil-fueled water heaters. They also only heat water when it is needed, reducing standby losses that come with storage tank water heaters.

Home Upgrades

To Improve Indoor Air Quality

much

The air inside your home also contains pollutants from everyday activities like cook ing, bathing and cleaning. A family of four can produce the equivalent of 22-30 pounds of

per day from normal activities, according to the In stitute of Specialist Surveyors and Engineers, while house hold cleaners and products like paint, upholstery, carpeting

Today’s skylights can also be automated to open and close at regular intervals or extend and retract shades to block light as needed. Many models, including those from Velux, can even connect to a smartphone app to combine convenience with a soothing mood booster that supports health and wellness.

YOUR HOME

and plastics can release chemi cals containing volatile organic compounds.

On average, Americans spend an estimated 90% of their time indoors, according to the EPA. All that time with minimal access to daylight and fresh air can take a toll on your health. These steps for manag ing indoor air quality can help you create a healthier home.

Support your HVAC system

Many homeowners as sume their heating and cooling (HVAC) system is adequate to manage their home’s indoor air quality. Typically, these systems only circulate existing indoor air, so you’re missing out on the benefits of circulating fresher, cleaner air.

What’s more, without regular servicing and frequent fil ter replacements, it’s easy for standard HVAC systems to fall short. This is especially true in older homes or in households where there’s a high volume of allergens like dust or pet dander. Adding standalone or integrated devices can help give your HVAC system some extra support. Air purifiers can effectively help fil ter pollutants while ultraviolet lights purify the air and help control pollutants like bacteria, mold and mildew.

Improve fresh air ventilation

When it comes to upgrades that improve air quality, bet ter fresh air ventilation is near the top of the list for many homeowners. Improved ventilation allows you to clear out stale, polluted indoor air and circulate fresh, outdoor air in your home.

Polluted air tends to stagnate at the ceiling, so one effec tive and energy-efficient way to create natural ventilation is with skylights that open. Sometimes called venting or operable skylights, when you open skylights in combination with vertical windows, you create natural airflow that can help release indoor air pollut ants and bring in fresh, clean air to keep your home healthy and pleasant. This concept is known as the chimney effect. Warm air naturally rises and escapes from open skylights while fresh air is drawn inside through the win dows. This practice can reduce your reliance on air condition ing, improving your home’s overall efficiency and keeping a lid on cooling costs.

Today’s skylights can also

be automated to open and close at regular intervals or extend and retract shades to block light as needed. Many models, including those from Velux, can even connect to a smartphone app to combine convenience with a soothing mood booster that supports health and wellness.

Keep up with cleaning

Textiles like carpeting, rugs and window treatments can harbor a great deal of dust and dander that reduces air quality. It’s important to regu larly clean and air out these decorative fabrics and surfaces, especially thick carpet that is likely to host dust mites and bacteria. Remember air quality while you’re cleaning, too, and opt for cleaning products with fewer chemicals. When pos sible, use microfiber cloths and natural materials like white vinegar and soap flakes.

With proper upgrades, ad justments and care, you can enjoy a home filled with fresh, healthy air and comfortable sur roundings year-round. Learn more at whyskylights.com.

Source: Velux

“

When it comes to upgrades that improve air quality, better fresh air ventilation is near the top of the list for many homeowners. Improved ventilation allows you to clear out stale, polluted indoor air and circulate fresh, outdoor air in your home.

the world of design, what’s old inevitably becomes new again, and a similar pattern is inspiring today’s on-trend color palettes for home decor. The latest styles reflect reviving and comforting colors influenced by heritage and romance, lending to a look that is familiar in an individualistic way.

living through the romance of rural lifestyles, the comfort of home or the nostalgia from far-off times, some of today’s most beloved design aesthetics celebrate the past, present and future while bringing balance, hope and comfort for you and your family to embrace.

YOUR HOME

Timeless Color

Using color to evoke feelings and emotions is hardly new but combining a carefully curated color palette with other design elements can allow you to create a look that pays homage to the past while breathing new life into your living space.

Reimagining classic, familiar tones allows you to achieve a design motif that is equal parts reminiscent and refreshing.

“The Vintage Homestead Color Collection offers an ef fortless look that reveals the importance of being hopeful to find stability and balance,” said Ashley Banbury, HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams senior color designer. “Our 2023 Color Collection of the Year revives elements from the past that are perfectly paired with vintage, comfortable and classic colors.”

Blending Past and Present

Striking a balance between old and new can take many forms, as these styles show:

* Heritage Revival: An inter est in reviving the past is evident in design trends like a remerging appreciation of antiques and vintage elements, such over sized furniture and traditional shapes. To capture this style, your design should focus on contrasting old and new for a mix-and-match look.

A cohesive color scheme can allow the various elements to stand on their own while working in harmony for an in tentional design. For example, the HGTV Home by SherwinWilliams 2023 Color Collection of the Year includes a combina tion of familiar tones that have been thoughtfully curated by design experts who borrow color and design concepts from the past for a hopeful future and a sense of belonging. Hues like Poetry Plum and Hot Co coa evoke warmth and depth, while moderate shades like Restrained Gold and Glamour offer fresh ways to incorporate mid-range neutrals. Meanwhile, soft tones like Natural Linen and Cool Beige offer subtle color for lighter, brighter spaces.

* Mixing and Matching of Eras: A new take on retro de sign is emerging in which eras are blended and new and old furnishing work side by side. To get this look, you’ll craft a space that marries historical and con temporary design, celebrating both old and new. To design for longevity, incorporate pieces that are ambiguous in era and stand the test of time.

viving design elements from the past with mixed patterns, classic shapes and vintage decor adds up to comfortable and comforting design. With this trend, prints and patterns encompass a range of styles, reinforcing how interiors con

nect to fashion. Mixing classic elegance with sleek vintage shapes is refining the con cept of polished comfort. To achieve the look, curate pieces in heritage shapes and pat terns, along with retro accents. Be sure to incorporate vintage

lighting and glass, as well.

A versatile color choice like Darkroom, the 2023 Color of the Year from HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams, is an allur ing shade that is classic enough for heritage interiors but also modernly retro for a throwback-

Get inspired to combine the past with the present for a comforting design that’s all your own.

inspired aesthetic. It’s a neutral perfect for creating an eclectic yet modern look inside and out. Get inspired to combine the past with the present for a comforting design that’s all your own at hgtvhomebysh erwinwilliams.com.

Improve Curb Appeal

home’s exterior can say a

about

also making a first im

your fam ily

on guests (and potential

of

impact

on the amount

willing to spend on a home, it’s important for homeowners to look beyond simply choosing the right sid ing color and consider different siding materials and profiles, adding accents like stone veneer and researching other exterior upgrades that can both increase beauty and deliver performance over time.

buyers

In fact, exterior remodeling projects typically top the list of projects that add the most resale value to homes. Accord ing to Remodeling’s 2022 Cost vs. Value Report, nine of the top 10 projects delivering the best return on cost were exterior renovations.

If you’re looking to sell or just want to increase the overall val ue of your home, consider these high-ROI exterior upgrades from the experts at Westlake Royal Building Products that can improve aesthetics and in crease resale value.

Front Door

If replacing the front door isn’t necessary, adding a fresh coat of paint is a simple way to refresh your home’s exterior. You can take your “dated” door and make it modern again with a bold, on-trend color. Take it one step further by adding artistic house numbers, a new light fixture or a door knocker in an unexpected shape for in expensive pops of style.

Vinyl Siding

Updating your home’s ex terior with vinyl siding yields a 67.2% return upon sale, ac cording to the report. When considering new siding, look

for high-quality, low-mainte nance materials. Depending on where you live, insulated vinyl siding can add additional pro tection against the elements, as well as increased energy efficiency. While function is important, don’t be afraid to make bold choices with color, texture, different profiles and contrasting trim to make a true statement with your home’s exterior.

For example, Westlake Roy al Building Products offers a wide range of vinyl siding options in the latest shades, including adding five on-trend colors to its Royal Siding and Exterior Portfolio lines. In spired by colors found in na ture, the gray, blue-gray, brown and green tones reflect the lat est trends in modern exterior home design. Both lines fea ture patented color protection technology to resist fading, which is especially important for darker shades.

Shutters

Adding or replacing shut ters is another easy way to add a bit of flair and can be a key finishing touch in creating the perfect exterior. With the potential to play beautifully alongside windows and siding as well architectural style and surrounding landscaping, it’s important to make thought ful choices and install them properly to ensure they look and function as designed.

Composite Decking

Another exterior remodel ing project with a high ROI (62.1%), according to the re port, is replacing your home’s existing wood deck with com posite decking. An option like Zuri Premium Decking com bines the natural beauty and warmth of exotic hardwood with the durability and low-

maintenance requirements of PVC (cellular polyvinyl chlo ride), which resists stains, scratches, fading and moisture, for a deck that will last for years with minimal upkeep.

Column Wraps

Give your front porch an instant facelift by wrapping your existing columns with PVC wraps. This is an easy way to achieve a cleaner and more modern, updated look. Resis

Antiques

tant to moisture, PVC column wraps prevent issues found in traditional wood columns, such as warping, rotting and insect damage. Available in a variety of ready-to-install styles, they can also be painted

to complement your home’s exterior color palette.

Find more ideas to increase your home’s beauty and resale values at westlakeroyalbuilding products.com.

Keeping families comfortably cozy in their homes year-round for over 76 years!

Make Health a Priority When Remodeling

related issues. Dust barriers and negative air enclosures can help minimize, but not eliminate, dust contamination to the rest of the home. Commercial dust “scrubber” filtering systems can significantly reduce dust contamination.

Installation

Once the existing hazardous materials are appropriately ad dressed, new materials will be placed in your home to replace or enhance the project. Due to strong demand by homeown ers, you’re likely to find many options for healthy products.

Keeping families comfortably cozy in their homes year-round for over 76 years!

Family Features

When you tackle a remodeling project, there are many unknowns, including what types of materials you might uncover. Hazardous materials must be addressed, and possibly removed, if exposed during a remodeling project. There are also some ma terials that should be removed to create a healthier home environment.

Whether materials “must be” or “should be” removed depends on several factors. It is always wise to consult with trained professionals, such as members of the National As sociation of the Remodeling Industry, when you encounter hazardous materials.

The complete removal of all hazardous materials is the pre ferred approach, but budget is often a hindrance. Thoroughly exploring your options may re veal a lower level of acceptable and more affordable mitigation.

Demolition

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING

Most common residential hazardous materials are not hazardous if they remain in a dormant or undisturbed location. Typically, they be come hazardous during the demolition phase when they are ground, cut, bumped, scraped or disturbed in some way, causing the materials to become air borne and inhaled.

Examples of hazardous materials include:

* Lead-based paint, which

can be found on be anything that is painted or varnished such as windows, millwork, cabinets, siding, walls and other surfaces.

* Lead water lines, which are primarily hazardous after water sits in the lines for some time prior to consumption, although contamination still occurs dur ing normal flow rates.

* Asbestos, which was once commonly used in a wide range of materials such as pipe or duct insulation; flooring tiles or sheet goods; ceiling tiles and plaster; wall and attic insulation; and plaster used as a binder.

* Silica, which is exceptional ly dangerous during saw cutting processes where dust is created.

* Mold, which is not hazard ous until the spores are disturbed, become airborne and are inhaled or ingested. Any visible or detectable mold should be removed, and the surfaces cleaned or removed. High con centrations of mold should be addressed by trained profes sionals, as it can be hazardous if not handled properly.

* Dust, which can be hazardous to some individuals who are sensitive or have breathing-

For example, prefinished materials (that can be painted, stained or varnished off-site) aid in the reduction of on-site fumes and vapors.

Other products to look for when you’re remodeling with health in mind include:

* Low volatile organic com pounds, which limit the amount of off-gassing of the materials used in the manufacturing pro cess. Typically, these are paints, stains, varnishes, carpeting and vinyl products.

* Renewable products, which can be replenished quickly.

* Heat recovery ventilation systems that exchange the ther mal qualities of the interior air with fresh air brought into the home.

* Air purification systems, which may involve ozone, pleat ed filters, high-micron filters, electrostatic filters or UV light systems, among others.

* Dehumidification systems designed to keep the relative humidity levels in a safe range to prevent mold growth.

* Exhaust fans in baths, kitch ens, lower levels and workshops, installed to discharge smells, smoke, fumes and humidity.

* Radon systems designed to exhaust radon gases to the exterior.

Find more advice to navigate a health-conscious home re model at remodelingdoneright. com.

Source: National Association of the Remodeling Industry

Parks, recreation director Angela Snell says goodbye

By Caroline Gordon Reporter

SHREWSBURY - Director of Parks and Recreation Angela Snell marked her last day serv ing the town of Shrewsbury Sept. 30.

“It’s been very emotional thinking about leaving the town I have enjoyed working for and being involved in for so many years,” Snell said.

Now, Snell will soon begin her role as the town of Clin ton’s first assistant town ad ministrator.

Town Manager Kevin Mizikar said that Snell has of fered “a wide array of talents to the town.”

“Most know of her service as the town’s recreation director, where she was the face of the town at so many events and activities,” he said. “She also had an amazing ability to interview and select talented candidates to serve in a variety of positions.”

Snell reflects on her Shrewsbury career

Snell began working for Shrewsbury in 2001.

For 18 years she served as the director of parks, recreation and cemetery before she became the public facilities superin tendent. Snell served in that role for three-and-a-half years prior to her final role as director of parks and recreation, which oversaw the parks and recre ation programs and facilities in Shrewsbury.

“We work behind the scenes to assist other groups with their special events on town facilities. Our department would work on park improvement projects,” she said.

Throughout her time in Shrewsbury, Snell was involved in numerous projects.

Among some of her work in Shrewsbury, Snell said she’s en joyed helping Parker Road Pre school build its playground and the Shrewsbury Little League install lights at Dean Park.

She’s also enjoyed assisting the Highway Department to co-sponsor Kid’s Equipment Day and participating in Com munity Reading Days because “the school children asked some great questions about the parks.”

She organized town events such as the Memorial Day Pa

rade, the food truck festival and summer concerts. She was also responsible for issuing permits for sports groups and special events, and she worked along side the Massachusetts’s Office of Fishing and Boating Access to oversee the operations of the state boat ramps.

Snell participated in many projects for school athletic field improvements, and she collabo rated with the schools, library and senior center on various committees and projects over the years.

The best part of her job was working with community groups and boards.

“There are so many wonder ful groups. It’s been a pleasure working with them on projects or events,” she said.

She said she’ll miss a number of Shrewsbury groups, includ ing the sports teams, the Garden Club, the Boy and Girl scouts, parent-teacher groups, the Shrewsbury Trails Committee, Friends of Prospect Park, veter ans groups, Special Olympics, the local crew coaches, the Lake

Quinsigamond Commission and the Parks and Cemetery Commission.

“Hopefully I didn’t forget anyone because I’ve really en joyed working with the com munity,” Snell said.

Snell said she is thankful for the staff in the Department of Parks and Recreation and the Department of Public Works.

She added, “I’d also like to give a big thank you to all the people who have volunteered with us over the years. We couldn’t do what we do without the volunteers.”

Building Commissioner Patty Sheehan, also a friend of Snell, has worked with Snell since she first started working for Shrewsbury 21 years ago.

“She is a competent and car ing person who always puts the best interest of the community first. Angela and I have worked together on important issues such as accessibility compliance for many town projects. I am happy for her new opportunity but I am sorry to see her leave Shrewsbury,” Sheehan said.

Angela Snell stands in front of the sign on the municipal campus on Maple Avenue.

PHOTO/CAROLINE GORDON

Cultural

By Ed Karvoski Jr. Contributing Writer

WESTBOROUGH - Forecasts for rain Oct. 1 prompted the Westborough Cultural Council to move its 12th Arts in Com mon from Bay State Commons to Mill Pond School with most activities indoors.

Promoted as “a festival of all things creative,” the six-hour event showcased a variety of visual and performing artists.

About 40 artisans displayed and sold handmade items in the school gym. Among free offerings were a musical instru ment petting zoo, airbrush face painting and temporary tattoos, as well as caricatures, origami and recycled art creations.

Live entertainment began with the colorfully-costumed Hung Gar Kung Fu and Lion Dance Company of Arlington mingling among the art ven dors. Accompanied by musi cians, the lion dancers contin ued their performance outside the school.

Other musicians, dancers

and a comedic juggler per formed in the school audito rium. Audience members inter acted with performers.

Festivalgoers of all ages got the chance to learn salsa danc ing from Juan “Mambo” Lopez of Tumbao Latin Dance based in Worcester. Henry the Juggler

entertained on stage along with audience volunteers and then taught kids the art of juggling in the school lobby.

Meanwhile, food and dessert trucks were stationed in the lot outside the school cafeteria.

This fundraiser allows the Westborough Cultural Council

to award annual grants. In 20212022, the council awarded over $14,000 to 21 grant recipients for projects or events.

Co-chairing the Arts in Com mon festival were Maureen Johnson and Jenny Silverberg with other committee mem bers Aruna Chirala, Samantha Condon, Michelle French, Holly Kenny and Tracy Spadafora.

Learn more about the West borough Cultural Council at massculturalcouncil.org/lo cal-council/westborough and facebook.com/westborough culturalcouncil, and Arts in Common at artsincommon.net and facebook.com/artsincom monwestborough. For more photos, visit communityadvo cate.com.

Blessing of the Animals at St. Stephen’s in Westborough

By Maureen Sullivan Senior Reporter

WESTBOROUGH - Radar couldn’t wait to be blessed.

The dog, about 9 years old, howled through much of the Blessing of the Animals ser vice, held on Oct. 1 on the front lawn at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church on John Street.

The service commemorates St. Francis of Assisi, founder of the Franciscan order of friars who was known for his love of

animals.

Although attendance was small — two other dogs and a box with the cremated remains of a cat — they and their own ers took part in the service led by Rev. Mary Rosendale, the priest-in-charge, and Deacon Beth Washburn.

After a brief prayer, each ani mal received a blessing. Rosendale promised there would be treats for next year’s service.

Top:

dancer approaches festivalgoers including Vivian DiSanzo,

and her father, Vincent.

Helping Hands launches holiday campaign

Choice

NORTHBOROUGH - The North borough Helping Hands Asso ciation is kicking off its holiday campaign.

Called “Making Spirits Bright,” the program will ben efit Northborough families and senior citizens who are in need. As part of the program, com munity members can sponsor a child, gift or grocery gift card.

Last year, Helping Hands served 142 children.

This year, the association is hoping to raise $10,000 to pro vide gift cards for each child to parents who can then person ally purchase clothing or toys for the child. Grocery gift cards will be provided to senior citi zens and single people in need.

The gift cards will be dis tributed as part of its annual Thanksgiving program dis

tribution.

Helping Hands is requesting monetary donations so that the gift cards purchased by the as sociation can be tailored to each child. A $75 donation will spon sor one child for the holiday while a grocery card for a family can be sponsored for $50 or one gift for a child for $25.

The deadline to donate is Nov. 1. Donations can be made online at www.northborough helpinghands.org or by mailing a check to NHHA, Holiday Out reach, P.O. Box 383, Northbor ough, MA 01532.

Additionally, MOOYAH do nated a percentage of its sales on Oct. 1 to the association. For the month of October, Aero Coffee Roasters will donate 10% of all in-store whole bean purchases to Helping Hands.

Blessing of the Animals at St. Stephen’s in Westborough

Blessing | from page 26

Services at St. Stephen’s are held on Sundays at 9 a.m., fol lowed by a coffee hour.

Upcoming programs at the church include its Craft Fair on Saturday, Dec. 3, and its Living Nativity on Saturday, Dec. 17. This event will include an Ad

vent Vacation Bible School, “The Miracle of Jesus,” along with a community event for children and families from 3 to 6 p.m.

For information about the church, visit https://www. ststeph.com/ or call 508-3664134.

POLICE FIRE&

Man charged with possession of child

By Maureen Sullivan Senior Reporter

WESTBOROUGH - A West borough school custodian has been arrested and charged with possession of child por nography.

On Monday, Sept. 26, West borough Police investigators, along with the Massachusetts State Police’s Internet Crimes against Children, arrested and charged a 52-year-old West borough resident, Andrew Size, with possession of child pornography.

According to Westborough Public Schools Superintendent Amber Bock, the department was notified by Westborough police late on Sept. 26 about an active investigation regarding Size, who worked as a night custodian at Fales Elementary School.

Size has been placed on administrative leave, and he will not be allowed to return to campus pending the outcome of this investigation, said Bock.

“The Westborough Police Department conducted a thor ough search of Fales and have reassured us that none of the content being reviewed as part of the investigation has any connection to Fales Elementa ry School or the Westborough Public Schools,” said Bock. “WPD’s search of Fales was as sisted by a specialized K9 unit that has specific training in detecting electronic devices as well as the state police forensic unit. These units confirmed both the physical facility as well as the school’s network and computers did not have

any inappropriate content connected to this investigation.

“We are shocked and sad dened that a member of our school community is allegedly involved with such an awful and damaging situation. I would like to thank our col leagues at the Westborough Police Department as well as the state police forensic unit and K9-Niko and his handlers from the New Hampshire In ternet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC) for their assistance and collaboration,” said Bock.

A trooper assigned to the Massachusetts State Police Cyber Crime/ICAC Task Force received a cybertipline report from the National Center for

Missing and Exploited Chil dren. The report was forward ed to the Westborough Police Department, and it was as signed to Westborough police detectives for investigation.

As a result of the investi gation, Westborough Police investigations, in collaboration with Massachusetts State Po lice, executed a search warrant issued by Westborough Dis trict Court for Size’s residence, resulting in his arrest.

Size was held on $2,500 bail, and he was scheduled to be arraigned at Westborough District Court on Sept. 27.

This is an ongoing inves tigation. The Westborough Police Department said ad ditional charges are pending.

Police charge man for loaded handgun without license

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

SHREWSBURY - A Stoughton man faces charges after police allegedly founded a loaded handgun in his fanny pack dur ing a traffic stop.

On Sept. 25 at 2:36 a.m., a Shrewsbury officer pulled a vehicle over on Hartford Turn pike near Edgemere Boulevard for an equipment violation, ac cording to a department press release.

Officers reportedly saw the front seat passenger — Carlos Alves Dos Santos, 19, of Stough ton — moving his hands around his waistband and the center

console. Police said they found a loaded handgun inside a fanny pack across his chest.

Shrewsbury police said the Jennings firearm J-22 was load ed with six rounds of .22 caliber ammunition. Additionally, there were seven rounds on his person and in the bag and center console.

Alves Dos Santos was charged with possession of a firearm without a license, car rying a loaded firearm without a license and possession of ammunition without a license.

Joana Correia, 21, of East Providence, R.I., faces charges of unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle.

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@communi tyadvocate.com. Here is a complete list of individual obituaries posted on the Community Advocate website (www. communityadvocate.com).

DEATHS

Aramento, Matthew of Shrewsbury

Balser, Richard of Marlborough Barbato, Patricia of Shrewsbury Brown, Rhéa of Northborough Doyle, Simmi of Westborough Dufresne, Gary of Grafton Elhilow, Pauline formerly of Hudson

Jewell, Kathie of Northborough Kalil, Doris of Shrewsbury Langway, Ursula of Southborough McGrail, Lawrence of Grafton McKiernan, Joseph of Shrewsbury

Sherman Sr., Ralph of Northborough

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

POLICE LOG

The information in the police log is obtained directly from the official records maintained at each police station in our circulation area.

Those arrested are innocent until proven guilty. The Community Advocate will publish news of acquittals upon notification and a copy of court issued documentation.

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

Gary Dufresne, 66

GRAFTON - Gary Dufresne of Grafton, passed away peace fully surrounded by his family on September 25, 2022, at the age of 66.

He was the son of Neil Du fresne and his wife Joan of The Villages Florida. Loving brother of Kim and her hus band, Mark Beaudry of Turner Falls, Donna Lipp of Battle Creek MI, Cheryl Yarborough of Elizabethtown KY, and Brian Dufresne of Marlboro. He was the beloved father of Michelle and her Husband Lloyd Mar shall of North Port Florida, Jennifer Dufresne of Sutton, Gary E Dufresne and his wife Stephanie of Westborough, and Caryn and her husband Roger Raiche of Bellingham MA. He was the proud grandfa ther to 12 grandchildren.

A private celebration of life was held Oct. 1.

Ursula Langway, 88

SOUTHBOROUGH - Ursula Luisa (Krehn) Langway, 88, of Southborough, died peace fully on September 25, 2022

surrounded by her loved ones.

Ursula was the beloved wife of Robert W. Langway and the adored mother of Linda Orentlich and her husband Frederick of Northborough; Deborah Kennedy and her hus band Douglas of Hudson; Julie Kebartas of Hudson; Robert Jr. and his wife Nancy of South borough; and Lori Howley and her husband Richard of New buryport; the devoted grand mother of Meghan Williams; Jordan and Tyler Howley; Jes sica, Justin and Jason Langway; Austin and Jared Orentlich; and Karleigh, Bobby and Viktoriya Kebartas. In August 2022, she became the great grandmother to Kennedy Williams. Ursula is also survived by her sister, Anne Marie Guerin, of France; her cousin, Steffi Lang, of Min nesota; and two cousins, Hazel and Monica Peiser, of London.

The Morris-Johnston Fu neral Home of Southborough assisted with arrangements.

Rhéa D. Brown, 89

NORTHBOROUGH - Rhéa D. (Fournier) Brown, 89, of

Northborough, passed away peacefully at her residence, on Thursday, September 22, 2022, surrounded by her lov ing family, after several years of declining health.

Rhéa is survived by her lov ing husband and best friend of 72 years, Frank; her son Frank Brown and his wife Corinne of Sarasota, Florida, daughter Paula Yankee and her husband Kenneth of Shrewsbury, and son David Brown and his wife Cindy of Millbury. She is also survived by daughter-in-law Nancy Delpero of Wrangell, Alaska; sister Mildred Sweeney of Kissimmee, Florida; her six grandchildren, Kenneth, John, Kellie, Frank, Thomas, and Amanda; 11 great-grandchil dren, Samantha, Alysa, Layla, Jack, Keith, Jenna, Harleigh, Bruin, Ashlynn, Frank, and Sarah, who brought her much joy. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her son Michael and infant daugh ter Karen. She will be greatly and sadly missed by all who knew her.

The Chiampa Funeral Home, 5 Church Road, on the

Common, Shrewsbury Center, assisted with arrangements.

Matthew R. Aramento, 89

SHREWSBURY - Matthew R. Aramento, 89, of Shrewsbury, passed away on Saturday, September 24, 2022, at UMass Hospital in Worcester. His loving wife, Judy E. (White) Aramento, predeceased him in June 2003.

Matt is survived by two sons, Mark L. Aramento and his wife Doreen of Auburn, and Michael R. Aramento of Man chester, NH; a brother, Michael L. Aramento of Worcester; a sister, Maryanne Ferry of Shrewsbury; four grandchil dren, Melissa, Eric, Katie, and Aly; nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a brother in law, Steven Ferry and a sis ter-in-law, Joanne Aramento. Matt was born in Worcester, son of the late Louis P. and Mary L. (Novia) Aramento.

The Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel of Worcester assisted with arrangements. Obituaries | 30

identity theft.

3:09 p.m. Providence Rd. Larceny/ theft.

Marlborough

Wednesday, Sept. 21

7:13 a.m. Pearl St. Larceny.

11:47 a.m. Violetwood Cir. Fraud/ forgery.

8:00 p.m. BPRE. Auto theft.

Thursday, Sept. 22

10:16 a.m. Blanchette Dr. Fraud/ forgery.

2:24 p.m. Marlborough Hills Health Care/Northboro Road East. Larceny. Friday, Sept. 23

5:34 p.m. Witherbee Ter. Larceny.

Grafton

Sunday, Sept. 18

10:38 a.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/ identity theft.

Monday, Sept. 19

7:21 p.m. Arrested, Tan Phuoc Tong, 42, of 25 East St., Grafton, on default warrant, trafficking in cocaine 18 grams or more/less than 36 grams, possess Class B drug, distribute Class B drug.

Tuesday, Sept. 20

3:15 p.m. Providence Rd. B&E into vehicle.

3:23 p.m. Pullard Rd. B&E into vehicle.

Friday, Sept. 23

12:43 p.m. Fletcher St. Accident –personal injury.

2:10 p.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/

9:12 p.m. TGI Friday/Donald J. Lynch Blvd. Auto theft.

Saturday, Sept. 24

10:03 a.m. Wayside Ford Inc/Maple St. Larceny.

12:13 p.m. Liberty Hill Apartments/ Main St. Larceny.

11:03 p.m. Arrested, Tony A. Alvardo Ortega, 32, of 43 Gibbon St., Marlborough, for OUI-liquor or .08%, fail to drive in right lane.

Sunday, Sept. 25

12:55 a.m. Royal Crest Apartments/ Hosmer St. Larceny.

7:20 a.m. Curtis Ave. Auto theft.

Northborough

Tuesday, Sept. 20

1:24 p.m. Wesson Ter. Fraud.

9:34 p.m. Solomon Pond Rd. Ac cident: P.I.

Thursday, Sept. 22

8:55 a.m. Blake St. Breaking and entering.

3:54 p.m. West Main St. Larceny. Friday, Sept. 23

1:27 p.m. Memorial Dr. Fraud. Saturday, Sept. 24

9:54 p.m. Arrested, Jeferson Apo linario, 37, of 500 Paul Morris Dr., En glewood, FL, for op MV with license suspended, OUI-liquor or .08%.

Shrewsbury

Thursday, Sept. 22

6:54 p.m. Arrested, Derrick R. Noyst, 37, of 299 S Quinsigamond Ave., Shrewsbury, on warrant. Friday, Sept. 23

2:49 a.m. Arrested, Epifanio Lanzo, 33, of 22 May St., Apt. C, Worcester, for op MV with license suspended, MV lights violation, pos session Class B substance; Jackson S. Sugrue, 24, of 281 Stearns Rd., Marlborough, for possession Class B substance; and Tabatha Ann St. Laurent, 34, of 51 Wilson St., Apt. 3, Worcester, for possession Class B substance.

8:02 a.m. Memorial Dr. Larceny. 3:00 p.m. Naples St. Identity theft. Saturday, Sept. 24

6:11 p.m. Summer St. B&E motor vehicle. Sunday, Sept. 25

2:36 a.m. Arrested, Carlos M. Alves Dos Santos, 19, of 164 Porter St., Stoughton, for possess firearm/ ammo w/out FID card, and Joana

Correia, 21, of 15 Vine St., Apt. 2, East Providence, RI, for unlicensed operation of MV, number plate violation.

10:37 a.m. Keyes House Rd. Identity theft.

3:01 p.m. Avalon Way. Larceny.

10:35 p.m. Arrested, Thomas E. Quinn, 43, of 10 Knowlton Ave., Apt. C, Shrewsbury, for marked lanes violation, OUI liquor, neg operation of MV (operate to endanger).

Monday, Sept. 26

1:12 p.m. Heronwood Dr. Identity theft.

3:40 p.m. Olde Colony Dr. Identity theft.

Tuesday, Sept. 27

8:56 a.m. Cherry St. Larceny.

5:10 p.m. Arrested, Melissa M. Dacri, 42 of 10 Normal St., Apt. 3, Worcester, for unregistered vehicle, attach plate not assigned, number plate violation, poss Class A w/intent to distribute, firearm use in felony, receive stolen motor vehicle.

6:06 p.m. Ryan Rd. Larceny.

Wednesday, Sept. 28

12:44 a.m. Arrested, Lucy Shan non Rich, 44, of 123 Dean Ave., Apt. 3206, Franklin, on warrant.

Southborough

Tuesday, Sept. 20

8:44 a.m. Turnpike Rd. Larceny/ forgery/fraud.

10:16 a.m. Turnpike Rd. Larceny/ forgery/fraud.

Wednesday, Sept. 21

9:40 a.m. Blackthorn Dr. Larceny/ forgery/fraud.

Friday, Sept. 23

2:34 a.m. Arrested, Patricia A. Steacie, of Westminster Dr., Marl borough, for OUI-liquor or .08%, marked lanes violation, negligent operation of motor vehicle.

Westborough

Friday, Sept. 23

10:05 a.m. School St. Larceny. 12:26 p.m. Computer Dr. Larceny. 4:36 p.m. W Main St. Larceny. Saturday, Sept. 24

10:30 a.m. E Main St. Larceny. Sunday, Sept. 25

7:12 p.m. Arrested, Calvin Alvinze MacQueen, 60, of 18 Melrose St., Boylston, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, possess open container of alcohol in MV.

Monday, Sept. 26

3:06 a.m. Arrested, Daniel Rus sell Mansfield, 33, of 19 Brookhaven Rd., Worcester, for possess Class B drug, warrant, trafficking in meth amphetamine 36 grams or more/ less than 100 grams.

2:57 p.m. Oak St. Larceny.

3:44 p.m. Arrested, Andrew W. Size, 52, of 151 Milk St., Apt. 17, Westborough, for possess child pornography, possess obscene material..

Tuesday, Sept. 27

12:26 p.m. Upton Rd. Larceny.

7:33 p.m. High St. Larceny.

COMMUNITY OBITUARIES

Obituaries

Patricia A. Barbato, 84

SHREWSBURY - Patricia A. Barbato, 84, of Shrewsbury, passed away on Sunday, Sep tember 25, 2022, at UMass Hospital.

Patricia is survived by her sister, Wendy M. Lyon and her husband Stephen, with whom she lived until six years ago; her brother, Robert F. Bar bato of Worcester; six nieces and nephews, Michael Lyon, Keith Lyon and his wife Kayla, Ashley Kelly and her husband Joseph, Amber Lyon, Michelle Lovell and her husband David, and Robert Barbato and his wife Linda; seven great nieces and great nephews; along with friends at Saint Francis Adult Day Care. She was pre deceased by her sister-in-law, Priscilla in November 2018.

Patricia was born in Worces ter, daughter of the late, Etolo “Eli” M. and Evelyn R. (Fra non) Barbato.

Patricia worked for many years as a cutter with New Eng

land Sales Company. She en joyed her days at Saint Francis Day Care and her house mates in Shrewsbury.

Patricia’s family would like to extend a heartfelt “thank you” to the great people at 185 Lake Street in Shrewsbury, for their great care and affection offered to Patricia and her family.

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

Pauline M. Elhilow, 77

HOLLISTON - Pauline M. (Ra malho) Elhilow, 77, of Hollis ton, MA, formerly of Hudson, MA passed away peacefully at her residence on Friday, Sep tember 23, 2022.

Pauline leaves her beloved husband of 57 years, John C. Elhilow of Holliston, MA; her daughter, Lisa Smith and her husband Brian of Kennebunk port, ME; her son, John C. Elhilow Jr. of Holliston, MA; 6 grandchildren, John Henry (and his wife Victoria), Sa

LEGAL NOTICES

above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tues day Evening, October 18, 2022, in the Selectmen’s Meeting Room, Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury.

SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION

John Ostrosky, Chairman

SHREWSBURY

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY

PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that Jason R. Pat rick of Patrick’s Motor Mart, Inc. d/b/a Patrick Motors, 701 &713 Boston Turn pike, has applied to the Board of Select men for a Class 1 & Garage License. The proposed hours of operation are Monday through Thursday, 7:00am to 7:00pm, and Friday to Saturday 7:30am to 5:00pm.

A public hearing on this application will be held on Tuesday, October 25, 2022 at 7:05pm in the Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, Selectmen’s Meeting Room, 100 Maple Ave Shrews bury, MA 01545.

NOTICE OF HEARINGG.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40

Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, that Gianna Hoban of 205 Kirkland Drive, Stow, MA has filed a Notice of Intent for the repair of a septic system at 553 Grafton St.

A public hearing will be held on the

NOTICE OF HEARINGG.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40

Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, that Hugo Lima of 118 Maple Street, West Boylston, MA has filed a Request for Determination for the removal of trees at 27 Bay View Drive.

A public hearing will be held on the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tues day Evening, October 18, 2022, in the Selectmen’s Meeting Room, Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury.

SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION

John Ostrosky, Chairman CM 10/7

TAX PLATE 33 PLOT 079000. TOWN OF SHREWSBURY ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

PUBLIC HEARINGS

October 24, 2022

6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Scrappy Pet Enter prises, Inc, 11 Kent Drive, Northborough MA01532 for a Variance to the Shrews bury Zoning Bylaw Section VI – Table I to conduct dog training services with in

mantha, Tyler, Jason, Ryan and Evan and her great grandchild Vanna. She is also survived by her two brothers, Joseph Ram alho and his wife Leslie of Ho mosassa, FL; Robert Ramalho of Hudson, MA; her two sisters, Judy Yost and her husband Bob of Hudson, MA, Sandy Yellick of Northborough, MA along with other relatives and friends. She was predeceased by her brother Michael A.Ramalho.

Pauline was born in Marl borough, MA, the daughter of the late Joseph J. Sr. and Mary V. (Renaud) Ramalho. She was raised in Hudson at tending local schools and was a 1962 graduate of Hudson High School. She has resided in Holliston for 50 plus years and in 1976 she began a long career in the Holliston Public School’s Cafeteria Food Service program. She was a dedicated and motivated employee who eventually became the Food Service Director for the town’s school system. She retired 20 years ago and was a member of St. Mary’s Parish in Holliston.

Pauline enjoyed cooking, baking and entertaining her family on many gatherings and in her spare time she enjoyed gardening, reading, and cro cheting. Following retirement both John and Pauline also enjoyed spending time at their home in Florida during the winter months. Most of all she cherished spending time with her family, especially later with her grandchildren. She will be missed by all who loved and knew her.

The Tighe Hamilton Region al Funeral Home of Hudson assisted with arrangements.

Richard M. Balser, 62

MARLBOROUGH - Richard M. Balser, 62, of Marlborough died Monday September 26, 2022.

He was born in Hawthorne, California the son of the late Richard A. and Cecelia I. ( Ia covino) Balser.

He was a graduate of Assa bet Valley Regional Vocational High School Class of 1977. Richard entered the United

States Marine Corps in 1978. He received the USMC Rifle Sharpshooter badge and was stationed at Marine Corps Air Station at Kaneohe Bay in Ha waii for three years where he was an Aviation Supply Clerk before receiving an Honorable Discharge in 1982. He was an automotive technician for many years working for Herb Connolly Chevrolet Auto Body Repair in Framingham. In his spare time he enjoyed fishing, hiking, camping and mountain climbing.

He leaves his sisters, Cecelia Jusseaume of Raleigh, NC and Sherri Balser of Marlborough; two nephews, Michael Jus seaume and his wife Keziah of Peterborough, NH and Tyler Chaves of Marlborough; four grand nephews and nieces, Elizas, Colby, Oliver and Lilly; an uncle Frank Pratt of North borough and an aunt Arliss Gould of Farmington, Maine; many cousins.

The Collins Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.

a portion of a building upon property lo cated at 810 Boston Tpke in the Limited Industrial District. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Asses sor’s Tax Plate 35 Plot 025001.

October 24, 2022

6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Boch ShrewsburyWorcester LLC, 111 Morse Street, Nor wood, MA 02062, for a Special Permit and Variance to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VI – Table I and Section VII – Table II to locate a salesroom for automobiles and a garage and repair shop, and to park inventory and display vehicles with a nonconforming setback upon property located at 701 and 713 Boston Turnpike in the Commercial Business District. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Asses sor’s Tax Plate 34 Plot 077000 and Tax Plate 35 Plot 006000.

October 24, 2022 6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of McGovern Auto Group Corp Services DBA McGovern Collision, 777 Washington St. Newton, MA for two Variances and two Special Permits to the Town of Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw under Section VI – Table I Footnote 9 and Section IV.B to recon struct a non-conforming structure, to operate a garage/repair shop, to store unregistered vehicles on the lot, and to have a curb cut within 500’ of a church upon property located at 420 Boston Turnpike in the Commercial Business District. The subject premise is de scribed on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s

Peter C. Mulcahy, Clerk

NOTICE OF HEARING -

G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40

Notice

with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, that Mark Lambert of 25 Fairbanks St, West Boylston, MA has filed a Request for Determination for the removal of trees at 314 Prospect Street.

A public hearing will be held on the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tues day Evening, October 18, 2022, in the Selectmen’s Meeting Room, Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury.

SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION John Ostrosky, Chairman

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY Parks and Cemetery Maintenance Division

The Town of Shrewsbury Parks and Cemetery Maintenance Division is re minding all lot owners that all plantings and decorations must be removed from flower beds and monuments at Moun tain View Cemetery by the end of the day on Monday, October 10, 2022, in order to facilitate the fall clean up. Any items not removed by this date will be removed and discarded by Cemetery staff.

American flags can remain until Veter ans Day on Friday, November 11, 2022. Any remaining flags after this date will be removed.

Winter decorations may be placed after Tuesday, November 15, 2022. Lot own ers are reminded that no decorations are allowed behind or on top of monu ments.

For more information, contact the cem etery office at 508-841-8560, via email at cemetery@shrewsburyma.gov, or visit the website

complete list

Cemetery Rules and Regulations at www.shrewsburyma.gov/cemetery.

SOUTHBOROUGH

TOWN OF SOUTHBOROUGH RECREATION DEPARTMENT

The Town of Southborough, MA Recre ation Department is seeking proposals from qualified entities to assist in pro viding comprehensive summer camp assistance through facility sharing.

Information available 10/07/2022 by contacting Recreation@southbor oughma.com

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Notice is hereby given by Pat’s Service Center of

Casco Street, Worcester, MA, pursuant to

Section

lien

of Mass

that they will

or after

Maurice DePalo

HOME REPAIRS

Snow

unity

BANQUET HALL RENTALS

For all occasions in Marlborough Call Steve at 978-310-7051

Rental Yard Sale

Answers to Super Crossword

Can’t wait

By Maureen Sullivan Senior Reporter

WESTBOROUGH - For the past 16 seasons, Jordan LavalleeSmotherman kept himself in front of the puck and as often as possible as a professional hockey player.

This season, he’ll be behind the bench and the desk, as the new coach and general manager for the Worcester Railers, the East Coast Hockey League affili ate for the New York Islanders.

“We are very excited to name Jordan as our new head coach and general manager,” said Chief Operating Officer Michael Myers. “This past season, he was a major asset to our or ganization, providing veteran leadership and leading our club in scoring.

“He has proven through out his career that he is a win ner, having captured multiple league championships, includ ing an AHL Calder Cup. With 16 years of professional experience

as a player, captain and player assistant coach, we feel very confident that he will be able to help us take the next step for ward on and off the ice.”

“It’s been an exciting sum mer so far,” said LavalleeSmotherman. “It’s definitely been life-changing.”

Lavallee-Smotherman has spent the first weeks with “a lot of recruiting and management.”

“I got to sign players, get the right staff … It’s been a fun expe rience so far,” he said.

‘Transitioning with a peace of mind’

A Westborough native, La vallee-Smotherman began his pro hockey career in 2005 when he was drafted by the NHL’s Atlanta Thrashers in the fourth round.

He made his National Hockey League debut with the Thrash ers on March 31, 2008, and scored his first goal on April 1. He went on to play part of two seasons with Atlanta from

2007 to 2009, followed by play ing parts of five seasons in the American Hockey League with the Chicago Wolves, Syracuse Crunch, Providence Bruins and Springfield Thunderbirds, ac cumulating 165 points — 79 goals and 86 assists — in 374 career games.

He was named to the East Coast Hockey League’s first

all-star team during the 2017-18 season as a member of the Manches ter Monarchs, totaling 72 points — 34 goals and 38 assists — in 69 games.

During his time play ing forward, LavalleeSmotherman gained experience in coaching serving as a volunteer assistant with the Man chester Monarchs during the 2017-18 season, guid ing them to game seven in the Eastern Confer ence final.

He also served as a player assistant with the Belfast Giants during the 2019-20 campaign.

During the 2021-22 season, in which the Railers went 3232, Lavallee-Smotherman was the team’s captain and leading scorer, with 30 goals and 32 assists.

“It was a good season last year. It was easier to say good bye,” said Lavallee-Smother

man. “I’m transitioning with peace of mind.”

Looking ahead to the season, Lavallee-Smotherman said the Railers should be improved on defense, and the power play should be better than last sea son.

Lavallee-Smotherman also likes the Railers’ commitment to community service.

“We spend a lot of time in public,” he said. “We continue to be involved in the community.”

Although he’s now a coach and general manager, LavalleeSmotherman hasn’t hung up his skates. He plays in a men’s league at NorthStar Arena in Westborough twice a week.

The Worcester Railers’ 202223 opening weekend at the DCU Center is Oct. 22 and Oct. 23 vs. the Adirondack Thunder.

Season memberships for the 2022-23 season and group packages are on sale now by calling the Railers front office at 508-365-1750 or by visiting RailersHC.com.

The Coffee Loft

PHOTO/COURTESY OF THE WORCESTER RAILERS

Westborough native Jordan LavalleeSmotherman is the new coach and general manager for the Worcester Railers.

By Caroline Gordon Reporter

NORTHBOROUGH/SOUTH

BOROUGH - The Algonquin

Regional High School boys varsity cross country team got off on the wrong foot, but it is making strides toward the rest of the season.

“It’s been an interesting start because of weather and bus issues that caused two meets to be rescheduled,” Head Coach Nathaniel Uttaro said.

According to Uttaro, his runners have made up for that slow start by beating Shepard Hill and now Westborough Sept. 27 26-33.

Uttaro identified key run ners who have made their mark so far this season. All of the Titans have run about a 17-minute race on the 3.1 mile course.

“Right now, Joe Lamburn is our top runner,” he said.

Uttaro added that Lamburn, Chris Kardos, Aiden Ruiz and Matt Zhang, who are all ju niors, are the top four on the

team so far this season, but there are many guys who are “right there.”

The team is young as there is “only one senior in the mix,” according to Uttaro.

“They just love running and that’s been awesome in terms of their enthusiasm for being at practice [and] doing the work outs. And, they really want to improve,” Uttaro said.

He said the team’s passion for running adds to the cama

raderie of the team, along with pasta dinners before each race.

“From what I can under stand, they [the pasta dinners] are well attended,” Uttaro said.

Before the boys hit the start ing line, they huddle together and chant their unique team saying from the 1980s movie “Cool Runnings.”

“It’s something like, ‘Feel the rhythm, feel the rhyme, come on everyone it’s bobsled time.’ It’s hysterical because

that movie is much older than any of them are,” Uttaro said.

Uttaro said many runners worked hard over the summer and he “would love to see those results pay off for them.”

As part of Algonquin’s goals for this season, Uttaro said he wants the team to be “com petitive in Central Mass” and qualify for the Central Massa chusetts Championships.

Last year, the team placed second in the championships.

Left: The Titans stick together as they eye the finish line during a recent meet against Westborough.

Right: Algonquin and Westborough runners were neck and neck before striding through the finish line.

According to Captain Mark Cayer the season is “off to a really good start.”

“Everyone on the team has been giving great effort and we are working really well as a group. We have been able to do more team building activities that we were unable to do for the past couple of years due to COVID,” he said.

The next meet for the Ti tans was against Wachusett Regional High School on Oct. 7.

PHOTOS/CAROLINE GORDON

Client safety, comfort, and healing are priorities at Elements Massage of Shrewsbury

By Kathryn Acciari Contributing Writer

SHREWSBURY- With a unique variety of massage options provided by its therapists, Ele ments Massage of Shrewsbury caters to clients with a range of needs.

“We offer prenatal massage therapy, sports injury recov ery treatment, cupping, deep tissue and cupping therapy, Swedish massage, and most recently added an upgrade to enhance the session with CBD oils,” said Andrew Dudka, who co-owns Elements Massage with his wife Jill.

Elements Massage opened in 2012 and now has 18 thera pists offering these treatments in its Shrewsbury location.

“Massage therapy gives you the benefit for your brain to shut down for a full hour or more! Our therapists do an excellent job providing

our unique service path,” said Dudka. “When a client first comes to us, we ask: What is their goal? What type of touch do they want and expect? Then we match them with a thera pist who offers what the client is asking for.”

The focus on client comfort is a priority at Elements Mas sage. Each client is greeted by his or her first name, and staff confirm the type of massage

that each client wants. Music and lighting are adjusted to the client’s desired levels in the treatment rooms.

“We do a lot of check-ins during treatment,” said Dudka. “We allow the client to tell us about their comfort with pres sure checks, and we ask if they would like the pressure to be lighter, the same, or deeper as the therapy progresses.”

After a therapy session, each

therapist takes the time to talk with the client about the session and makes recommenda tions for the therapy journey.

In addition to expertise in specific areas of massage therapy, each therapist at Ele ments Massage is trained on safety protocols.

Dudka said, “Safety is of the utmost importance here. We emphasize client safety while in the room and train our therapists in protocols to make the client comfortable, especially where privacy and draping are concerned. We also make sure our therapists are safe; they are trained on how to respond to what may become uncomfortable situations with clients.”

Elements Massage helped people benefit from massage therapy during the peak of CO VID and continues to practice sanitary measures in the face of COVID.

“We are vigilant on cleaning everything between clients, and both therapists and clients have the option of wearing masks,” said Dudka.

On the topic of trends in the massage therapy industry, Dudka is seeing a growth in the popularity of massage with CBD oil.

“CBD oil penetrates deeply into the muscle to relieve sore ness and inflammation. It has circulation benefits as well and can help to improve sleep,” said Dudka. “However, there is no THC in the CBD oil, the chemical which can cause psychological effects.”

To learn more or to schedule a massage therapy session, go to https://elementsmassage. com/shrewsbury.

Profiles

Andrew

PHOTO/KATHRYN