CA 230303

Shrewsbury launches Town Center

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – A refrigerator box for a bed. A barrel fire to ward off the chill. For five people, for one night, it was a chance to experience what it’s like to be homeless. For them and others, it was also a chance to raise funds and awareness about homelessness.

On the weekend of Feb. 25-26, “A Night in the Cold” took place at the Colonial Plaza’s parking lot. Close to East Main Street, several chairs surrounded a barrel fire. Along the parking lot, five refrigerator boxes served as overnight accommodations.

By Bill Gilman Senior Reporter

SHREWSBURY – Officials in Shrewsbury know what they would like the downtown area to look like by 2030. Now, they want to make sure the district has the infrastructure needed for it to flourish.

Last week, Town Manager Kevin Mizikar announced the launch of the Town Center Multimodal Study. The study will be taking a look at all types of traffic in the Town Center, including pedestrian, bicycle and motor vehicle, and make recommendations on ways to make it more convenient, safer and business friendly.

“We are excited to get the Town Center Multimodal Study underway,” said Mizikar.

He said there will be an abundance of opportunities for stakeholders to share their

The weather — cold and calm with snow showers as evening arrived — was just what organizers wanted.

“This is the perfect night. It’s the kind of night that makes a statement,” said John Bo-

Planning Board weighs conditions for Gutierrez project

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH – The Planning Board may soon make a decision regarding a proposed 150,900-square-foot distribution center and industrial off Bartlett Street.

During the Planning Board meeting Feb. 21, members discussed potential conditions as well

as changes to the plans submitted by the Gutierrez Company.

According to Project Engineer Dave Robinson, the company revised the parking area to add more landscaping, including six trees. Additionally, more trees would be planted along the driveway and the entrance to screen the building from Bartlett Street.

A bike rack was also added, Robinson said.

PHOTO/MAUREEN SULLIVAN

Members of Westborough Helps the Homeless, from left: Delaney Vallee, Maggie Hanlon and Sam Nelson.

Sections of Maple Avenue, Main Street, Boylston Street and Grafton Street are being evaluated as part of Shrewsbury’s Town Center Multimodal Study.

OVER TOP THE

Next Trex Film Plastics collection set for March 4

WESTBOROUGH – The next Trex Film Plastics collection drive will take place on Saturday, March 4, at Kohl’s Northborough, 7102 Shops Way (back entrance), from 8 to 9 a.m.

Those wishing to volunteer may sign up at www.signupgenius.com/ go/5080f4eada628a0f49-trex#.

Collections will also take place on March 18; April 1, 15 and 29; May 13 and 27; and June 10 and 24.

If you are bringing recyclables to Kohl’s, please use 13-, 33- or 55-gallon trash bags.

Can’t get to Kohl’s? Trex collection bins are available at the following locations — Central One Federal Credit Union, 40 South St., Westborough (accessible from back parking lot); YMCA, 4 Valente Drive (near

climbing wall); Westborough High School (near the cafeteria and upper lot).

More collection bin locations will be announced.

The following items will be accepted — grocery bags; cereal bags; dry-cleaning bags; bubble wrap; Zip-Loc bags; plastic shipping envelopes; bread bags.

The following items will not be accepted — potato chip bags with metallic liners; brown mailers with bubble wrap inside; hard plastics; plastics with food residue.

During the drive on Saturday, Feb. 18, nearly 300 pounds of plastics were collected.

The collection drive is sponsored by the Westborough Rotary Club.

For information, email cote@ westboroughrotary.org.

MARLBOROUGH – Ice covers the Fort Meadow Reservoir in Marlborough. Over the past several days, snow has covered the region. This photo shows several landmarks in the city in the distance, including the Goodnow Brothers Elementary School and Red Spring Road.

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Ryan Maloney, owner

The Same But Different

Sometimes wines made from the same variety of grape are labeled with different names. For example, Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio are both created with the same grey-blue skinned white wine grape. In France the grapes and wines are called Pinot Gris and in Italy the wines and grapes are called Pinot Grigio. Most wines made from these grapes have a hint of honey in their flavor profile, but climate, terroir, and wine-making styles in growing regions influence differences in taste. Pinot Gris tends to be medium-bodied, dry, and complex. It is a great dinner wine that pairs well with roasted meat and spicy cuisines. Pinot Grigio is light, crisp, and somewhat fruity. Serve with seafood or salads at lunchtime.

The flavors of Pinot Grigio and Pinot Gris are enhanced when served chilled. Serving these wines too cold or too warm will mask their flavors. To chill the wines to this temperature, place them in the refrigerator for about two to three hours before serving and then set it at room temperature for about 10 minutes prior to serving. JULIO’S LIQUORS has an extensive selection of wines from all over the globe. For more information, please call 508-366-1942 or visit us at 140 Turnpike Rd., Rt. 9 East HINT: Pinot Grigio is the second most popular white wine in the United States. These wines are meant to be consumed young and served chilled to 45°F.

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

Live show every Saturday, 11 am on WCRN AM830

itstheliquortalking.com

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

You can also pick and choose episodes on Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

DON’T MISS OUR AD ON PAGE 11

PHOTO/TAMI WHITE

Bigfoot expert to present at Oak Middle School on March 21

SHREWSBURY

–

A

sasquatch

in the woods of Central Massachusetts?

Preposterous?

It might not be quite as outlandish a possibility as one might think, according to Ronny LeBlanc.

LeBlanc, an expert in the fields of the paranormal, sasquatch and UFOs, stars in the TV series “Expedition Bigfoot” and “Paranormal Caught on Camera” on the Travel Channel. He is also the author of “Monsterland: Encounters with UFOs, Bigfoot and Orange Orbs.”

On Tuesday, March 21, at 5 p.m., LeBlanc will be in Shrewsbury, giving a presentation in the Oak Middle School Auditorium, 45 Oak St. The event is sponsored by the Shrewsbury Council on Aging.

When it comes to sasquatch, LeBlanc has firsthand experience. Back in 2010, he was the first person ever to cast a “Bigfoot” print in Massachusetts. The track had been discovered by a couple in Leominster State

Gift cards, swag to be given away at COVID-19 vaccination clinic at Fire Department

Forest.

According to LeBlanc, there have been reported sightings of “Bigfoot” in Leominster State Forest for over a century. It has also been the site of other paranormal activity. LeBlanc will be discussing all of this at his March 21 presentation in Shrewsbury.

Admission is free to Shrewsbury residents, while tickets are $5 for people who live out of town. Tickets may be obtained only at the Shrewsbury Senior Center, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. There is a limit of four tickets per person.

COA seeking committee members

The Council on Aging is also seeking Shrewsbury residents to join the Shrewsbury Senior Center Community Garden Committee.

It is sponsored by the council. Their first meeting will be at the Senior Center at 98 Maple Avenue on Monday, March 13 from 10 a.m. to noon.

SHREWSBURY – Protection from COVID-19 and free gifts — that’s what’s being offered at the COVID-19 vaccination clinic, being hosted by the Shrewsbury Fire Department in conjunction with the Central MA Regional Public Health Alliance (CMRPHA).

The clinic is scheduled for Friday, March 10, from 4 to 7 p.m., at SFD Headquarters, 11 Church Road. Giveaways while

supplies last include canvas shopping bags, water bottles, COVID-19 test kits and $25 Stop & Shop gift cards.

Anyone aged 5 and up is eligible for vaccination. Masks are required. Bring your vaccination card and your insurance card. If you have misplaced your COVID-19 vaccination card, please visit: myvaxrecords. mass.gov.

Vaccines available include

Moderna and Pfizer primary series and bivalent booster; and Novavax primary series.

Vaccination is by appointment only. You can reserve a time, online, at https://home. color.com/vaccine/register/ worcester?site=shrewsburyfire-station-march-10-2023

If you have any questions regarding the clinic, you may contact the Shrewsbury Board of Health at 508-841-8384.

Board of Health to sponsor Household Hazardous Waste Drop Off Day

WESTBOROUGH – The Board of Health will conduct its Household Hazardous Waste Drop Off Day on Saturday, March 18, from 7:30 a.m. to noon at the Department of Public Works facility at 133 Oak St.

The collection is limited to the first 100 vehicles. Upon arrival, be prepared to show proof of residency.

There will be no fees charged

unless there’s an unusually large collection from one household. Contact Health Director Paul McNulty at 508-366-3045 for details.

Among the items that will be accepted — brake and transmission fluid, car cleaners and wax, antifreeze, vehicle batteries, oil-based paint, cleaning fluids, turpentine, adhesives, flea-control products, insec-

ticides, herbicides, chemistry sets, gun-cleaning solvents, propane tanks, moth balls, furniture and metal polish, batteries, spot remover and mercury.

Among the items not accepted — garbage, ammunition, fireworks, tires.

For a complete list, and details about the collection, visit www.town.westborough. ma.us.

Concierge Medicine is Finally Coming To

• Concierge Medicine is a whole-body, proactive approach to healthcare.

• At Healthcierge Medical our doctors see 4-5x less patients than traditional doctors. This means longer appointment visits for you. This also means same or next day appointments so we can focus on prevention and achieving better health outcomes in a timely manner.

• Same or next day appointments.

• You will always see your physician. Not an NP or PA.

• Healthcierge Medical members receive highly personalized, unrushed care by physicians at the top of their fields.

• Evidenced-based, proactive (not reactive) primary care with an emphasis on lifestyle-based management strategies

• Focus on prevention with recommendations to help prevent chronic disease.

• Our physicians only see 600 patients. Membership is very limited in our practice.

Shrewsbury launches Town Center Multimodal Study Planning Board weighs conditions for Gutierrez project

Study | from page 1 Gutierrez | from page 1 thoughts to shape the development of the Town Center.

“This is an opportunity to implement changes that will enhance safety, improve walkability, increase commerce, and improve economic development for generations to come,” he said.

The district includes sections of Maple Avenue and Main, Grafton and Boylston streets.

Mizikar said that depending on the recommendations that emerge from the study, all options are on the table for improving the downtown experience. This could include enhanced sidewalks and pedestrian pathways, alterations to traffic flow and improvements to parking.

“We want people to be able to come to downtown, park once, be able to walk around and get to the places they want to go safely,” he said.

Several firms are participating in the study, including Kimley-Horn, Toole Design and Capital Strategic Solutions.

One of the key elements to the study is community engagement.

Capital Strategic Solutions will be helping with these activities and gathering feedback from commu -

nity stakeholders, who could include nearly everyone who lives or works in Shrewsbury.

No dates have been announced for community-engagement events.

While the launch of the study was announced last week, work actually began several weeks ago. According to Mizikar, motor vehicle traffic counts were conducted at several intersections downtown. Cameras were not just capturing numbers of vehicles, but also what those vehicles were doing at the specific intersections.

The Town Center Multimodal Study won’t simply be a standalone document.

According to Mizikar, it will dovetail with previous planning work done in the form of Shrewsbury’s 2030 Strategic Plan, along with the Town Center Visioning Study and the Town Center Parking Study.

Shrewsbury officials see mixed use development, such as the proposed Beal Commons project, as a cornerstone to the future of the Town Center, as it would bring new business while also bringing ready-made pedestrian consumers to both the new and existing businesses.

Environmental site assessment

Throughout the meeting, Planning Board members asked several questions an environmental site assessment conducted by Sanborn Head in 2020.

According to its executive summary, the assessment “revealed no evidence of recognized environmental conditions (RECs) in connection with the site…” with the exception of chlorinated volatile organic compounds (CVOCs) that were found in the groundwater upgradient to the east of the site following multiple subsurface investigations between 1988 and 2018.

CVOCs were detected in 2017 and 2018 at 33 Hayes Memorial Drive in the soil and groundwater, and tricholorethene “was detected at elevated concentrations in indoor air.”

As of the report, the extent of the release in the groundwater hadn’t been completed, though Sanborn Head concluded that this “upgradient release constitutes a REC to the subject Site.”

However, if there were reportable CVOCs found in the groundwater or surface water at this site in the future, it could be addressed under the Massachusetts Contingency Plan by submitting a

downgradient property status for the site.

Gutierrez’s attorney, Mark Donahue, argued that there wasn’t reference to the report in the Planning Board’s decision not to approve the project.

Following the decision from Land Court to remand it to the Planning Board, Donahue said the board was to determine whether the snow storage and operations and maintenance plans could be improved.

“That’s what we’ve done,” he said.

Member Amy Poretsky said the report came after the board made its decision.

“I feel as a Planning Board where we are supposed to protect the environmental qualities of the town, do adequate reviews, talk about the environmental quality and community character, it would be remiss of us to ignore an environmental site assessment that came back, even if it was after the decision because it wasn’t brought to our attention until after the decision,” she said.

The Planning Board discussed reaching out to its peer reviewer to review the report and provide feedback on its consideration from the Planning Board or another town board.

Ultimately, the Planning Board continued the hearing until March 7.

By Evan Walsh Reporter

NORTHBOROUGH – After months of discussion, organization, consideration, and meetings with town officials, the Regional School Committee unanimously voted to approve the budget for fiscal year 2024 during a meeting on Feb. 15.

The committee approved Superintendent Greg Martin-

eau’s recommended budget of $26,590,346, which represents an increase of $863,265, or 3.36%, from the fiscal year 2023 budget.

Since the start of the process in December, the budget had been cut considerably. The preliminary budget called for nearly $27.2 million.

Martineau noted that the new budget gives the district the ability to eliminate the student

activity fee and also includes funds to create a new Internship/Externship Coordinator position designed to “try and get students out in the workforce.”

“We are geographically located in an outstanding location, we have high tech… we really are going to have one person making those connections [and] providing those internships and externships to students so they get real-world experience,”

Northborough awarded $25,000 grant for dog park

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH – Northborough has received a grant for its proposed dog park.

According to Town Administrator John Coderre, the $25,000 grant through the Stanton Foundation will go toward finishing the development of the design of the park.

The Board of Selectmen ac-

cepted the grant during its Feb. 13 meeting.

The proposed dog park would be located off Boundary Street on land that the town had purchased in the 1960s to build a sanitary sewer treatment plant. The selectmen approved this location in December.

In January, town staff and its consultants presented more detailed plans to residents. So

Deborah Sampson portrayal coming to Northborough library

NORTHBOROUGH – A portrayal of Deborah Sampson, who was the only woman known to have disguised herself and served in the Continental Army without getting caught, is coming to the Northborough Free Library.

In this performance of “Farm Girl on the Front Lines,” Sampson will be portrayed by Owner of Historical Portrayals by Lady J Janet Parnes.

As part of the performance as Sampson, Parnes will describe the victories, frustrations and

close calls she experienced as a poor farm girl who risked humiliation and imprisonment to serve in the army.

Young audience members will be able to come on stage and participate in period games.

The performance will take place on Wednesday, March 8 at the Northborough Free Library from 7 to 8 p.m. It is free and suitable for ages 7 plus.

Anyone with questions can contact the Northborough Free Library at 508-393-5025.

far, the plans call for a small and large dog area with a pavilion in between. The areas combined would make up 1.2 acres that would be fenced in with a five-foot chain link fence.

Coderre said the town is hoping that the Stanton Foundation would be a source of upward of several $100,000 in grant funds for the dog park.

“Generally speaking, if they give you this smaller grant to move forward with the design, it means they’re very interested in funding the next round as well,” said Coderre.

Moving forward, the Planning Department and Department of Public Works will work on the full design of the dog park.

During the community meeting, staff and consultants presented several potential amenities for the site, including agility equipment, leash posts, a waste station and a water filling station.

At that time, staff said that final design and permitting may occur over the summer with — weather permitting — construction beginning in the early fall.

Martineau said. The budget will also fund roughly $30,000 worth of textbooks.

Martineau noted that the budget does not include several items, including funds to establish a Human Resource Generalist position and an Orton-Gillingham Reading Tutor position.

The district will not be losing

any existing positions, however.

“Overall, I think 3.3-ish percent [budget increase] is pretty remarkable considering where inflation is,” said School Committee Chair Sean O’Shea. The budget will be subject to a public hearing scheduled for March 15, and will later be discussed during Northborough and Southborough town meetings.

Where there is darkness, light;

Where there is sadness, joy.

O

grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as

HOMES MORE&

Spring into Action: Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal with Expert Guidance

To sell your home this spring, it may need more preparation than it would have a year or two ago. Today’s housing market has a different feel.

There are more homes for sale than there were at this time last year, but inventory is still historically low. So, if a house has been sitting on the market for a while, that’s a sign it may not be hitting the mark for potential buyers. But here’s the thing. Right now, homes that are updated and priced at market value are still selling fast.

Today, homes with curb appeal that are presented well are still selling quickly, and sometimes over asking price. According to Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at realtor.com:

“In a market where costs are still high and buyers can be a little choosier, it makes sense they’re going to really zero in on the homes that are the most appealing.”

With the spring buying season just around the corner, now’s the time to start getting your house ready to sell. And the best way to determine where to spend your time and money is to work with a trusted real estate agent who can help you understand which improvements are most valuable in your local market.

Curb

Appeal Wins

One way to prioritize updates that could bring a good return on your investment is to find smaller projects you can do yourself. Little

SMALL ENGINE REPAIR

updates that boost your curb appeal usually work well. Investopedia puts it this way:

“Curb-appeal projects make the property look good as soon as prospective buyers arrive. While these projects may not add a considerable amount of monetary value, they will help your home sell faster—and you can do a lot of the work yourself to save money and time.”

Small cosmetic updates, like refreshing some paint and power washing the exterior of your home, create a great first impression for buyers and help it stand out. Work with a real estate professional to find the low-cost projects you can tackle around your house that will appeal to buyers in your area.

Not All Updates Are Created Equal

When deciding what you need to do to your house before selling it, remember you’re making these repairs and updates for someone else. Prioritize projects that will help you sell faster or for more money over things that appeal to you as a homeowner.

The 2022 Remodeling Impact Report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) highlights popular home improvements and what sort of return they bring for the investment (see graph below):

Remember to lean on your trusted real estate advisor for the best advice on the updates you should invest in. They’ll know what local buyers are looking for and have the latest insights of what your house needs to sell quickly this spring.

Bottom Line

As we approach the spring season, now’s the time to get your house ready to sell. Let’s connect today so you can find out which updates make the most sense.

Westborough library trustee candidates outline platforms prior to election

WESTBOROUGH – Westborough voters will soon head to the polls for the annual town election.

The election is scheduled for March 14, and the ballot features contested races for Library Board of Trustees and School Committee.

This week features a portion of the responses from candidates for the Library Board of Trustees, and responses from School Committee candidates will be in the March 10 edition. There are three seats available for a three-year term, and one seat available for the one-year term. Read their full responses online at CommunityAdvocate.com.

Trustees of Public Library (3-year term)

planning, working to meet federal and state requirements, and engaging with members of the community. Guiding me always has been my belief in serving others. I have acted as a Library Trustee for the last two years, including serving as Recording Secretary for the last year, and I have enjoyed this work immensely.

part of Screen on the Green, or accessing tech support, there is something for everyone. As our community and our world continue to change and grow, I want to ensure that our library is ready to meet the needs and wants of all of Westborough.

When we downsized recently, we chose to stay in the town we had grown to love.

First, say a little bit about yourself.

When my family — my husband, our two children, and I —moved to Westborough seven years ago, the library was one of our first stops. I was happy to find such a welcoming place in the heart of our new community and to leave with a tall stack of books.

I started my career as a teacher and in educational publishing. I have now spent over 17 years as a school psychologist supporting children and their families. My work has helped me develop skills needed as a Trustee including addressing individual and institutional concerns, budgeting, participating in strategic

Why are you running for Library Board of Trustees?

I have always been a lover of books and those who know me know that I am a lifelong learner, so the library is a natural fit. But the 21st-century library is much more than books. It is a hub of our community, serving people of all ages and cultures, and bringing people together. I have seen firsthand how the library works to meet the diverse needs of community members. Whether it is checking out a good book, participating in teen events, finding a quiet study space during midterm exams, enjoying a family movie night as

Michael Karp

First, say a little bit about yourself. My wife and I moved around quite a bit for schooling and work since getting married in the late 1960s. The home we bought in Westborough in 2001 was our sixth house.

I have degrees from Franklin & Marshall and Brandeis, and additional graduate study at Harvard, Bryn Mawr, Penn and Colorado Tech. My professional work includes 10 years as both a teacher in a small rural school district and as head of the English Department at a large urban high school. I followed this with 40 years in the computer industry as a developer, marketer and industry analyst. This experience has given me a chance to work with people from a wide variety of backgrounds. I am retired. Now, I plan to focus on finding ways that education, businesses and government can work together to identify and achieve common goals.

Why are you running for Library Board of Trustees?

Our library was built in 1908. It houses a variety of

Debra Cushman (Incumbent)

Westborough library trustee candidates outline platforms prior to election

Candidates | from page 9

town facilities and valuable historical documents. It has weathered the years as gracefully as possible. Unfortunately, its climate control system now requires parts that haven’t been manufactured in years, it is covered by a roof that leaks, basic facilities are not ADA compliant, and it has windows

that — if opened — cannot be shut due to rotting woodwork. Prioritizing expenditures will best be done by working with the library staff and friends of the library to fix what most needs to be fixed while deferring action on other items. In this way we can make sure our library will grow in a thoughtful and measured

way that protects our existing investment, ensures continuation of valuable services, and prepares our kids and adults for the future. I’d like to be part of the team that does that.

makes the internet available to all for free. At the library, we are happiest when we see our materials leaving us with patrons, young, mature and in the middle.

Trustees of Public Library (1-year term)

@_thecoffeeloft_ www.coffee-loft.com

First, say a little bit about yourself.

I have spent much of my adult life in Westborough. I work here and participate in community activities. We have raised our children here, and maintained our residence here. I try to contribute to activities that make the town a good place for all.

Why are you running for Library Board of Trustees?

I am running for re-election to the post of Library Trustee to continue the ongoing work of preserving and enhancing our historic library and its programs. As a teacher, my passion for literature drew me to run for the post of trustee, but soon I realized that the library is so much more than a collection of books. There are museum passes, CDs and DVDs, magazines both paper and digital, a sewing machine, telescope, tools, yard games and so much more. The library

Julia

First, say a little bit about yourself. I live in Westborough with my two kids. We love living here for so many reasons, including but not limited to the people, the excellent schools, youth sports and activities and access to the outdoors.

Why are you running for Library Board of Trustees?

I am running for the Library Board of Trustees because I am a supporter of the library. Since the start of the pandemic, when my kids and I utilized the contactless drop off and pick up of books, my appreciation for the library has continued to grow. In spite of the fact that the building is over 100 years old and in need of many repairs and upgrades, the library has been able to adapt and support residents of all ages and backgrounds. It is a hub of our community, and it preserves our local history.

First, say a little bit about yourself.

I lived in Westborough for many years with my husband. He died in 2020, so I am starting a new chapter in my life. I am a speech pathologist, and I have worked in early intervention for 35 years. I specialize in working with autistic toddlers and their parents. I lived in France for five years many years ago. I am planning a trip there this spring, so I am enjoying brushing up on my French.

Why are you running for the Library Board of Trustees?

I love the library, and I go there frequently to keep up with my reading. The library provides many valuable, creative services that I want to support. I participate in the library’s weekly online meditation class. It’s a wonderful group of people with a talented teacher. The library provided valuable community support during the pandemic. At the beginning of the pandemic when we were watching Ita-

Dorothy Mello (Incumbent)

Rissmiller

Jeanine Mindrum

Westborough library trustee candidates outline platforms prior to election

Candidates | from page 10 ly, I saw that Italy went into lockdown, so I immediately checked out 30 books from the library. When the library had its tent outside where we could pick up books, I made regular visits. I followed the plans for the library renovation, and I was disappointed when it did not pass. I am interested in finding ways to support the library in ways that can receive support from our town.

of the No revote at the last town meeting. A one-year position is a good place to start. I believe that a library trustee must advocate for the needs of the library and its users, and must also represent the interests of all those who vote and pay taxes.

I ran previously for the library board in 2016, and

want to share my gifts as time frees up and I move towards retirement. I have had good experience with negotiating compromises in other areas and hope that this could be useful on the library board.

How to vote

Westborough’s annual town election will take place

on March 14.

The polls will open at 8 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. All of the precincts in town vote at Westborough High School.

The Trustees of the Public Library are one of two contested races on the ballot for Westborough voters. There are also three candidates — Paula Mathieu, Jakub Moskal

and Sarah Shamsuddian — for two seats on the Westborough School Committee. There are also uncontested races for Town Moderator, Planning Board, Select Board, Town Clerk and Trustees of Soldiers Memorials. For more information, visit https://www.town.westborough.ma.us/town-clerk.

First, say a little bit about yourself.

I was born in Scotland, and have lived in Canada and France. I arrived in California in 1995. What attracted me to the U.S. is that it is a land of, for, and by the people. I visited Massachusetts 40 years ago and discovered Westborough by working at Kopin. In 2017 I sold my house and moved there to finish my career and for retirement. I live in the Arrive Westborough apartments.

I’m fluent in French and English and have an OK Spanish. I have a Phd in computer engineering and work for a company that makes medical devices. I had two sons in France; Joseph died in 2006, Timothee just did his Ph.D. I belong to the Knights of Columbus Council 85 and fundraise for suicide prevention (AFSP, a cause I believe in). As a single person, I enjoy swimming and bicycling, dabble in watercolor and enjoy meeting others.

Why are you running for Library Board of Trustees?

Very honestly, I want to put the division in town on this issue in the rear-view mirror which means reaching a consensus. I have always been interested in politics and participated in the organization

James Adams. Owner

Ciaran O’Donnell

COMMUNITY NEWS

Northborough considers electric aggregation program Local legislative delegation receives committee assignments

By Laura Hayes

Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH – The town is considering implementing a program to purchase the supply of electricity for town residents.

During the Jan. 23 meeting, Selectman Julianne Hirsh asked if municipal aggregation could be placed on an agenda.

“The electric bills are a big concern in town,” she said.

According to Assistant Town Administrator Becca Meekins, in the late 1990s, the state passed an energy restructuring act that allowed municipalities to aggregate the consumers’ electric load.

This means the electricity would be purchased in bulk at lower rates on behalf of residents, and the community could control the cost of the supply of electricity for residents, she said during the Feb. 13 Board of Selectmen meeting.

“This provides some stability in the rates,” Meekins said. “As you know, basic rates under the utility companies fluctuate twice a year. They’re very volatile. They’re subject to markets

overseas, etcs.”

According to a memo from Meekins to the selectmen, participation in the aggregation program is not required, and residents would have the option to opt-out.

Process

The town previously began this process in 2016 when Town Meeting approved electric aggregation.

After the vote, several communities that already had agreements in place with suppliers experienced “challenges,” Meekins wrote in her memo.

“Many of those third-party suppliers struggled to remain solvent after signing contracts with municipalities for substantially lower rates than the national supplier rates, and as a result had to renege on their agreements with municipalities,” she wrote.

Because of the uncertainty, Northborough decided not to move forward.

That vote is still valid, Meekins told the selectmen.

The next step would be for the Board of Selectmen to issue a request for proposals (RFP) to seek consulting Aggregation | 16

REGION – The delegation representing the area has received its committee assignments.

House

Rep. Kate Donaghue’s (D-Westborough) committee assignments include the Joint Committee on Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery; Joint Committee on Education; Joint Committee on Public Service; Joint Committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure and House Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs.

Rep. Carmine Gentile (D-Sudbury) was appointed vice chair of the Joint Committee on Higher Education and a member of the Joint Committee on Elder Affairs; Joint Committee on Environment and Natural Resources; and Joint Committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.

Rep. Danielle Gregoire (D-Marlborough) will serve on the House Committee on Ethics; House Operations, Facilities and Security; House Committee on Rules; and Joint Committee on Rules.

Rep. Kate Hogan (D-Stow) is speaker pro tempore and she will serve on the House Committee on Human Resources and Employment Engagement.

Rep. Hannah Kane (R-Shrewsbury) was appointed as the ranking minority member

of the Joint Committees on Public Health and Health Care Financing. She was also named as the ranking minority member for the Joint Committee on Elder Affairs and will serve as a member of the House Ethics Committee.

Rep. Meg Kilcoyne (D-Clinton) was appointed vice chair for the Joint Committee on Housing. She will also serve on the House Ways and Means; House Operations, Facilities and Security; Election Laws; and Veteran and Federal Affairs.

Rep. David Muradian (R-Grafton) was appointed to the House Committee on Global Warming and Climate Change; House Committee on Ways and Means; Joint Committee on Elder Affairs; Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security; and Joint Committee on Ways and Means.

Senate

Sen. Jamie Eldridge (D-Marlborough) will chair the Joint Committee on the Judiciary and be the vice chair of the Joint Committee on Environment and Natural Resources. He was also appointed to the Joint Committee on Cannabis Policy; Joint Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities; Joint Committee on Election Laws; Joint Committee on

Assignments | 13

Free Family Mental Illness Education Class

Doctor at Westborough State Hospital was a trailblazer in Alzheimer’s research

WESTBOROUGH

THEN NOW

By Kristina Nilson Allen History Columnist

WESTBOROUGH – The neurofibrillary tangles and amyloid plaques in the brain tissue of the autopsies he performed fascinated Dr. Solomon Carter Fuller, the first black psychiatrist in the United States.

In the early 1900s in his pathology lab at Westborough State Hospital, Fuller came to an astounding conclusion that confirmed the work of his mentor, Dr. Alois Alzheimer. The dementia he observed in the patients was caused by a physical rather than a mental disease of the brain.

Fuller was one of five doctors selected to study with Alzheimer in Germany in 1904. He returned to Westborough State Hospital to continue his trailblazing research on dementia, work he continued for

the next twenty years.

A son of freed slaves and born in Liberia in 1872, Fuller came to the United States in 1889 to pursue a medical degree. He received a degree from New York’s Livingston College, then went on to graduate from Boston University Medical School in 1897. His interest was in the new field of neuropathology.

Fuller was then hired as an

intern in pathology at Westborough State Hospital for two years. When he learned that a less-experienced white doctor earned more than he did, Fuller negotiated for his own laboratory in place of a raise.

He continued as a pathologist at Westborough State Hospital for the next twenty years, taught at Boston University Medical School for 34 years, and maintained a private practice in Framingham.

In 1919 he married the revolutionary sculptress Meta Vaux Warrick, and they settled in Framingham. A student of Rodin in Paris, Meta Fuller gained an international reputation for work, now displayed at the Danforth Art Museum in Framingham.

Fuller fought racism all his life.

He noted, “With the sort of work I have done, I might have gone farther and reached

a higher plane had it not been for the color of my skin.”

Fuller died in 1953 at age 80.

In 1976, the Solomon Carter Fuller Mental Health Center was dedicated in South Boston. To honor this pioneer who blazed new scientific and racial pathways at Westborough State Hospital, the Westborough Select Board named the scenic drive along Lake Chauncy “Dr. Solomon Carter Fuller Way” in 2017.

Local delegation receives committee assignments

Assignments | from page 12 Public Safety and Homeland Security; and Joint Committee on Public Service.

Sen. Robyn Kennedy (DWorcester) will chair the Joint Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities and serve as vice chair on the Joint Committee on Cannabis Policy.

She will also sit on the Joint Committee on Agriculture;

Joint Committee on Education; Joint Committee on Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery; Joint Committee on Public Health and Joint Committee on Transportation.

Sen. Michael Moore’s (DMillbury) assignments include being named chair of the Joint Committee on Advanced Information Technology, the Internet and Cybersecurity; and vice chair of the Joint

Committee on Financial Services.

Moore will also sit on the Senate Committee on Ways and Means; the Joint Committee on Bonding, Capital Expenditures and State Assets; the Joint Committee on Environment and Natural Resources; the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security; and the Joint Committee on Revenue.

In the early 1900s in his pathology lab at Westborough State Hospital, Dr. Fuller confirmed that the dementia he observed in patients was caused by a physical rather than a mental disease of the brain.

PHOTO/COURTESY OF THE FRAMINGHAM HISTORY CENTER

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SOUTHBOROUGH – Assabet Valley Chambersingers will present “Turn the World Around,” a choral concert of short works and solos, including madrigals, folk songs from many cultures, vocal jazz and contemporary settings of great texts.

The concert will be held on March 12, at Harris Auditorium, Fay School, at 3:30 p.m.

The program will focus on the theme song “Turn the World Around,” which was made popular by Harry Belafonte and the Muppets. The song tells us to understand our relationship with the earth, with each other and with ourselves.

“Breaths,” written in the African American folk tradition and made popular by the group Sweet Honey in the Rock, also tells us to be aware of the world around us.

Other songs will include cultural folk songs, musical settings of great poetry, and lighthearted songs intended to entertain.

The Assabet Valley Chambersingers is an 18-voice ensemble from the Assabet Valley Mastersingers. Organized in 1983 by Artistic Director Robert Eaton as a civic outreach program in the greater Worcester and MetroWest areas, the Chambersingers provide entertainment for a variety of audiences. Members have performed at venues such as the Arts in Common Westborough, Tower Hill Botanic Gardens, Northborough and Marlborough Libraries, and First Night Worcester, as well as assisted-living facilities throughout the area.

All tickets are “pay what you wish” at the door.

For more information, visit avmsingers.org/chambersingers.

Proof of vaccination is not required, and the wearing of masks is fully supported but not required. There will be a reserved mask-only section for those who prefer that environment.

Grafton Garden Club awards grants to teachers

GRAFTON – The Grafton Garden Club has announced the awarding of two grants of up to $500 to Grafton teachers.

Jenni Peters, of North Street Elementary School, was awarded a grant to help students learn about gardening, nature and the importance of pollinators. She is the garden club leader for students in grades 2 through 4. The North Street School has an outdoor classroom where students can observe and explore nature.

The grant will allow Peters to pay for a speaker to discuss with the students the importance of pollinators. She will also purchase Mason bee habitats and bees. These activities are scheduled for the spring.

Another grant was awarded to Katlyn Gieser for all the first-graders at North Grafton Elementary School. The firstgraders will plant seeds in the spring and observe the life cycle of plants. Through this activ-

ity, the students will learn and write about the parts of plants.

The Garden Club is happy that the students in Grafton will be involved in gardening and environmental activities.

All the money that supports students through scholarships, and teachers through grants, is raised at the Garden Club’s annual Plant Sale and Raffle on the Common.

This year, the sale will be on Saturday, May 13, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Please attend for all annual, perennial, vegetable and herbal plant needs. Experienced club members will help you by answering gardening questions.

The Grafton Garden Club is a 501c3 nonprofit organization whose purpose is to promote interest in and knowledge of gardening and the environment. The club is open to anyone who wishes to join.

Visit www.graftongardenclub.org.

‘Night in the Cold’ raises $20,000 for Abby’s House

Night in the Cold | from page 1

gaert, who has organized the event for the past three years.

“This is so great for awareness,” said Chris Sassetti, a friend of Bogaert’s. “I’ve always loved the event.”

His son, Gray, was one of two seniors from Westborough High School (WHS) to take part in the event.

“I have some great company to do it with,” he said. “It’s for a great cause.”

Fellow WHS senior Brady Henderson agreed.

“I think it’s an important cause to be part of,” he said.

Throughout the day, people stopped by to hand over cash or to write a check.

“It’s great to have people stop by and chat for a few minutes,” said Scott Henderson, Brady’s father.

Members of the high school’s Westborough Helps the Homeless club were also on hand, holding signs along East Main to get drivers to stop and donate.

“I was in the Appalachian

Service Project when I was a freshman. It inspired me to help those in need, especially the homeless,” said Maggie Hanlon, a WHS junior who founded the club.

“This is a great opportunity. I love to be part of it,” said club member Delaney Vallee.

Proceeds from the event went to benefit Abby’s House in Worcester, which provides shelter and assistance for women with and without children.

“We have seen a 78% increase in the number of people

A sign along East Main Street shows the location of the annual “A Night in the Cold” event on the weekend of Feb. 25-26.

calling for shelter,” said Meghan Person, the development/communications specialist for Abby’s House. “We are definitely in need of funds and awareness.”

“We are so grateful for the members of the community to select Abby’s House,” said Kelly Whalen, the senior director for Abby’s House. “This show of love and support means a lot to the women [in the shelter].”

After the event, Bogaert reported that $20,000 had been raised before and during A Night in the Cold.

To donate or for more information, visit www. donate2homeless.org.

For information on Abby’s House, visit abbyshouse.org.

Facebook link: https://www.facebook.com/donate/1214291972544544/

A celebration of ‘Women in Westborough’

WESTBOROUGH – The Westborough Historical Society, Westborough Women’s Club and Westborough Connects will co-host a “Women of Westborough” event on Wednesday, March 8, from 6 to 7:15 p.m. at the Great Hall, Forbes Building — 45 W. Main St.

This multigenerational pro-

gram will connect Westborough women leaders, friends and neighbors.

The evening will begin with a presentation featuring two historical leaders from Westborough: professor Mary Brigham (1829-1889), president-elect of Mt. Holyoke College, and the 1978 Olympic gold medalist in aerial skiing,

Nikki Stone.

Attendees will then rotate through tables featuring several local female leaders. This program was designed for women of all ages and youth, ages 10 and older. Light refreshments will be served. Registration for this event is requested by March 5; visit tinyurl.com/2u3wwp5j.

From left: Brady Henderson, Gray Sassetti, John Bogaert, Chris Sassetti and Scott Henderson and the place where they spent the night of Feb. 25 — refrigerator boxes.

By Bill Gilman Senior Reporter

SHREWSBURY – The physical distance between the new Shrewsbury Police Station and its predecessor is no more than 50 yards. However, functionally, the two buildings are light years apart.

On Feb. 24, the Shrewsbury Police Department officially relocated to its new headquarters, a 41,500-square-foot facility.

Approved by voters in 2020, ground was broken in the fall of 2021. It replaces a facility built in 1971 and renovated in 1996.

According to Town Manager Kevin Mizikar and Police Chief Kevin Anderson, the process was smooth and the building was completed on time and within budget.

“There were a couple of punch list items that we had to tap into the contingency, but it was all within budget,” said Mizikar.

He credited Fontaine Construction with helping to keep costs down.

“Fontaine purchased materials and supplies up front, which saved a lot of money,” he said. “And they took care of storing those materials and supplies [off-site] until they were needed, at no cost to us. Fontaine has been very good to us through this whole process.”

According to Mizikar, the project was approved and began at the right time. Given that post-COVID inflation has caused the costs of materials and supplies to soar, starting the project today would cost millions more, he said.

The building itself was completed in January. The transition had to be timed in such a way as to not jeopardize resident safety.

“Considering we are a 24/7 operation, things have gone relatively smoothly. The station transition team did an outstanding job preparing the department for the move, often working 12-16-hour days,” said Anderson. “We would not have been able to move into the new station without all the staff’s hard work. We had E911 transi-

tion scheduled for a specific date and time that had to be seamless in order to provide continuous public safety for the town.”

Beyond substantially increasing floor space, the new building provides usable space that will help officers, dispatch and staff do their jobs more effectively. It includes numerous features, including two community rooms and a spacious call room.

“The new police station will be a perfect building for the Police Departments 21st century policing model and community policing philosophy and the department’s vision: ‘To be fully engaged in our community to co-produce public safety that reduces crime and improves quality of life,’” said Anderson.

The new station also features a wellness facility, dedicated to the overall mental health and emotional well-being of the department staff.

Both Anderson and Mizikar lauded the team effort that went into making the new police station a reality and thanked those

involved in the process.

“The building committee did an outstanding job overseeing, directing and guiding the design and construction of the project. They really took the department’s needs into account during any decision that needed to be made,” said Anderson, who worked 28 and a half years in the old station.

“We also formed internal working groups and subject matter experts within the department that volunteered and assisted with various aspects and decisions that affected police operations during and after the project is completed. This was truly a team effort with the police department and members of the community.”

Northborough considers electric aggregation program

Aggregation | from page 12 services to assist the town with developing an aggregation plan that would adhere to standards from the state Department of Public Utilities (DPU) and Department of Energy Resources. Ultimately, Northborough’s plan would go before the DPU for approval before the town could receive bids for an Electric Service Agreement.

According to Meekins’ memo, the agreement and so-

licitation would include details on the plan, including renewable energy options. The agreement would be executed by the town, and the adoption of the new rate would be coordinated with an existing energy supplier. There would be a mandatory opt-out period before the program could launch, which would include mailers sent out to all residents to give them a chance to decline participation, the memo said.

•

Five secrets to treat plantar fasciitis at home

By Dr. Donald Pelto Podiatrist

One of the main symptoms of plantar fasciitis is pain when getting up in the morning, on the �irst step out of bed. It can hurt on the bottom of the heel and then it gets better after about �ive or ten minutes. It also hurts after prolonged sitting or driving because the back of the leg becomes tight.

Deep tissue massage with a foam roller and “aggressive stretching” are the best and easiest ways to improve symptoms at home. Changing shoes is

another option to have less pain. I’ve put together this guide that has already helped many of my patients (Scan the QR code on the picture using your phone).

If you have heel pain that is not going away, call 508-757-4003 or TEXT 508-625-7775 for a visit. This article was edited and condensed. Read the full feature at www.centralmasspodiatry.com/blog

Westborough targets funds for Otis Street improvements

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – Through the state’s Complete Streets Funding Program, the town will receive $500,000 toward improvements for Otis Street.

The funds will be used to construct a sidewalk on the east side of Otis Street. This will include two crosswalks, rectangular rapid flashing beacons, pedestrian crossing warning signs and Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant curb ramps.

The project will also construct a shared use path on the west side of Otis Street.

The town was one of 15 communities receiving funds under the second round of the fiscal 2023 grant process for Complete Streets. These grants will be used by recipient municipalities to fund local multimodal infrastructure projects that improve travel for bicyclists, pedestrians, public transit

users, and people using other forms of transportation. This is the 14th overall grant round for this program.

A “Complete Street” is one that enables safe, convenient and comfortable travel for users of all ages and abilities regardless of their mode of transportation. Administered by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, the Complete Streets Funding Program aims to teach communities about Complete Streets and encourage the integration of Complete Streets into regular local planning practices.

“The Complete Streets Funding Program has now awarded $90 million in total funding through 463 technical assistance and construction awards since 2016 to support municipalities in their ongoing efforts to improve their transportation infrastructure, build safe, convenient and easily accessible transportation networks and to facilitate economic development op -

portunities,” said former Gov. Charlie Baker. “This program continues to advance mobility and connectivity throughout the Commonwealth.”

“MassDOT is pleased to continue to work with municipal leaders to encourage the

installation of infrastructure to help make for ‘Complete Streets’ everywhere,” said Transportation Secretary and CEO Jamey Tesler. “We want everyone in every city and town in the Commonwealth to have sidewalks, crosswalks,

and other features which make it easy and safe to get to where they want to go.”

For more information about the Complete Streets Funding Program, visit gis. massdot.state.ma.us/completestreets.

Used bookstore now open at Shrewsbury Public Library

SHREWSBURY – A new used bookstore opened quietly last fall at the Shrewsbury Public Library.

The store is located on the lower level of the library, 609 Main St., outside the children’s room. It is run by the Friends of the Shrewsbury Public Library.

Shelves contain books, DVDs, and CDs in gently used and like-new condition. The library accepts donations on an ongoing basis and inventory is replenished as soon as possible. The inventory has offerings for every age group and

fans of various literary genres. There are board books for babies and novels for students. Bestsellers, classics, non-fiction on a variety of topics such as biographies, cookbooks, and history also are at the store.

“(I) can’t believe what pristine condition the books are in for such a reasonable price,” said customer Caroline Gaffney, of Shrewsbury. “It is a wonderful resource.”

Adult hardcovers are $2. Adult paperbacks, media, and all children’s books are $1. Some items, like complete

television series, are specially marked.

All money earned from the bookstore enables the Shrewsbury Friends group to directly support library events and programs for patrons of all ages. The Friends is thrilled to see this unique space capture the attention of all age groups.

“When we funded the creation of this space during the library renovation project, we had no idea it would evolve into such a hubbub of activity,” said Vanessa Hale, president of the Friends of the Shrewsbury Public Library board.

Alumni return to Shrewsbury High School for career fair COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – Hundreds of Shrewsbury High School (SHS) students descended upon the Largess Commons on Feb. 7 to find businesses, trade schools, military branches and alumni eager to connect with them.

The SHS Career Fair welcomed representatives from over 30 organizations and had over 300 junior and senior students registered to attend.

“I think it was interesting. It’s a great opportunity for students to figure out what they may want to do in life, and I think it’s wonderful that schools are now advocating that there are other opportunities aside from college,” SHS junior Maddie Harper told the Community Advocate.

Career Fair success stories

The Career Fair was the

latest initiative by the SHS School Counseling Staff and the Shrewsbury High School Alumni Association to increase access to information about careers, jobs, trades, and opportunities that are alternatives to attending a four-year college.

SHS offers internship and job-shadowing programs and held its first Career and Trade Fair last April.

“I think it’s great we are able

to ask questions directly to people who are experienced and have been in these fields for a while,” SHS junior Siri Ural said.

According to school staff, the goal of this year’s fair was to increase students’ access to information about different career paths.

“I hope that [the Career Fair] sparks something in students to want to investigate something further,” school counselor and

1998 SHS alumna Jessica Rice said, “I hope that students stop and think ‘Huh! That could be me!’”

Principal Todd Bazydlo largely agreed with Rice.

“[I hope students gain] a greater appreciation for the work going on in our community, and also I hope we really arm them with information. Hopefully they leave here curious… and maybe get some leads for a summer experience, an internship, or a job,” he said.

The event has already led to numerous success stories.

Senior Luiza Saldanha, who got her start at Shrewsbury Federal Credit Union through SHS’s job-shadowing program, advertised the credit union to many of her classmates at the Career Fair.

“I went in, job-shadowed, brought my notepad, and took notes on all the different roles. I really enjoyed it… and I got

hired there and I’ve been working since,” Saldanha said.

“I love it. It’s honestly the best place,” she added.

Over 30 organizations piqued students’ interest by handing out candy, lip balm, tote bags, baseball hats, and other items. Students left the fair with handfuls of brochures and flyers.

Alyson Avoglia, a representative from Oxford-based trade school Technology Learning Center, said she hoped students “learn that there are a lot of options available for them after high school – not just the traditional college – but there is training in the trades as well.”

Businesses ranged from SALMON Health and Retirement to the Worcester Red Sox. Several trade and military opportunities were also represented, including the Massachusetts Air National Guard

PHOTO/EVAN WALSH

Inside Westborough’s English language learner program

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – English language learners represent about 11% of Westborough’s school population from kindergarten to 12th grade.

More than 400 students receive English as a second language instruction from 19 licensed teachers. They speak 40 different native languages.

The highest number of students are enrolled in the Hastings and Mill Pond elementary schools.

During the School Committee meeting on Feb. 15, ELL Director Latisha Broomfield offered a glimpse into the program.

According to its webpage on the schools’ website, the program offers one-on-one and small group tutoring in addition to classes.

There’s also the Adult English Academy (four levels of instruction, six teachers); the EL Summer Academy (three weeks in July, with five teachers and four paraeducators); and the After School EL Academy at Mill Pond, Gibbons Middle School and

the high school.

ELL teachers are also after-school club advisors to the Wings Initiative, the Multicultural Club and the Cross Cultural Community.

For information on the ELL program, visit www. westboroughk12.org/district_services/english_language_learners_e_l_l.

Preschool tuition

The School Committee has approved a 10% hike in preschool tuition for the 2023-24 school year.

“We want to remain cost effective” compared to other school systems and towns, said Superintendent Amber Bock.

She added that the town’s Early Childhood Center is one of the few in the area that’s open five days per week.

Half-day tuition will now be $396 per month; full-day tuition will be $990 per month.

For information on the center, visit westborough-early-childhood-ce.westboroughk12.org/ home.

Eighth-grader earns honors in poster contest

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – A threesided poster showing why plastics should be banned from the oceans has earned honors for a Gibbons Middle School student.

During the School Committee meeting on Feb. 15, eighthgrader Maahi Srivastava presented the work that earned her an honorable mention in the annual poster project sponsored by Massachusetts Partnerships for Youth.

Srivastava’s entry was among nine finalists chosen from 324 submissions from 47 school districts statewide.

“My family loves the ocean,” said Srivastava on the idea behind the poster.

The organization has hosted

the project since 2009 “to engage students on important topics and provide a platform

for their voices.”

The theme for the 20222023 project, “The Earth Loves You. Love it Back,” was focused on the continued movement to be green and sustainable, and it challenged students to cover topics such as reducing paper consumption, saving electricity, educating others on sustainable development goals and planting trees.

Judges commended Srivastava’s work for its threedimensional aspect.

Massachusetts Partnerships for Youth Inc. is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that provides training, fosters collaboration, and develops programming to increase the health and safety of students.

For information, visit massachusettspartnershipsforyouth.com.

Alumni return to Shrewsbury High School for career fair

Career fair | from page 18 and the Massachusetts Army National Guard.

Alumni Return to SHS

The Career Fair also saw the return of several alumni who wanted to share their experiences with students.

Ron Whittle, a 1966 SHS alumnus, served in the Vietnam War and had a role in the rescue and recovery of the Apollo 13 astronauts. Whittle now writes poetry and travels throughout the Northeast for speaking engagements.

Whittle told the Community

Advocate that he “wanted to tell the kids [to] not let anything hold them back,” adding that he chose to come back to SHS to express his gratitude for the school.

“I wanted to thank everybody for giving me an education I didn’t even know I was getting,” Whittle said.

Tony Ngo, a 2000 SHS alumnus who represented Lofty Homes at the Career Fair, said that “Shrewsbury High School was a pretty big part of [his] youth.”

“I didn’t know it at the time, but it created an environment

where I could learn and grow,” he noted.

Both Rice and Bazydlo complimented SHS’s alumni network.

“We have a great alumni network. Their formative years happened here… there’s a lot of pride with that. That’s one of the best things about our graduates; they never forget where they started and they are always looking to give back,” Bazydlo said.

“Where your roots are has meaning for you. For some people, it’s natural to want to give back,” Rice added.

This poster depicting why plastics should be banned from the oceans earned a Gibbons student an honorable mention in a statewide contest.

POLICE FIRE&

Fire causes $500,000 in damage to Westborough house

cold front expected [last] weekend,” Purcell said.

The Westborough Police Department provided support at the scene. The Hopedale and Upton fire departments covered the Westborough Fire Headquarters and responded to several calls in Westborough.

Request for flashing crosswalk signs added to warrant

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – On Jan. 5, a car struck a 12-year-old boy as he was crossing West Main Street near the rotary.

The boy was shaken up and had some scratches, but he was otherwise OK, according to his mother, Lauren Schiffman.

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – The Westborough Fire Department, supported by mutual aid partners in several communities, extinguished a two-alarm house fire last Friday morning.

Westborough Public Safety Communications received a 911 call on Feb. 24, at 6:29 a.m. from a resident reporting a fire in the living room at 65 Adams St.

First-responding companies arrived within five minutes to find heavy smoke and a working fire in the living room of a single-family Cape-style home. The resident, the lone occupant of the home, was alerted by functioning smoke detectors and had evacuated.

Westborough Fire struck a second alarm requesting mutual aid, with crews from the Grafton, Hopkinton, Northborough, Shrewsbury and Southborough fire departments re-

sponding.

The fire was declared under control by about 7:15 a.m. There were no reported injuries.

“Thankfully no one was injured. Responding crews did a great job of knocking the fire down before it spread in part because the resident was alerted by a working smoke detector,” Chief Patrick Purcell said.

Damage is estimated at $500,000. The Westborough building commissioner is inspecting the home. The occupant has made housing arrangements with family.

A preliminary investigation by the Westborough Fire Investigation Unit has determined the fire was caused by an overloaded older-style extension cord into which a space heater was plugged.

“We ask residents to be extremely careful when using space heaters or extension cords, especially with another

A GoFundMe page has been established for the family. Those wishing to donate may go to https://www.gofundme.com/f/travis-familyhouse-fire-support-fund?qid =90814f305d908996ec7afaa1 9155df1b

POLICE LOG

Schiffman appeared before the Select Board on Feb. 14, to request a Town Meeting article to add flashing crosswalk signs at West Main near the Forbes Municipal Building.

“I am here to appeal to you … I want to do my part to add

Jefry Reyes Castillo, 23, of 125 Elliot Ave., Apt. 3T, Yonkers, NY, for larceny, B&E daytime for felony, vandalize property.

Friday, Feb. 17

12:44 a.m. Arrested, Ronald Robert Pacek, 40, of 7 Oak St., Whitinsville, for OUI liquor, neg operation of MV (operate to endanger), speeding in violation special regulation, marked lanes violation.

Saturday, Feb. 18

5:39 p.m. Arrested , James D. O’Connor, 23, of 49 Houghton St., Hudson, for oper MV with license suspended/revoked.

Tuesday, Feb. 21

12:51 a.m. Arrested, Christopher T. Morelli, 34, of 5 Sherman Terr., Natick, on warrant.

Shrewsbury

Thursday, Feb. 16

8:52 a.m. Arrested, Gregorix Jimenez Cruz, 24, of 254 New Main St., Apt. 2C, Yonkers, NY, for larceny, B&E daytime for felony, vandalize property, and

Northborough

Sunday, Feb. 12

12:55 a.m. Arrested, Hope Lloyd, 22, of 6 Donahue Ln., North Grafton, for

a layer of protection. I don’t want another parent to get a call” that their child had been struck by a car, she said.

Costs would include about $14,000 for the signals (two at $6,000-$7,000 each), plus installation.

“We support the article,” said board Chair Ian Johnson. “Downtown is a tough place with parked cars and traffic.”

The exact spot where the signals would be installed would be left to the Department of Public Works.

The board approved a motion to place the request onto the warrant.

negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08%.

Friday, Feb. 17

9:23 p.m. Arrested, Paul Albert Aucoin, 78, 346 Tpke., Westborough, for negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08%.

Marlborough

Wednesday, Feb. 15

9:53 p.m. Arrested , Abigail Hatch Ierardi, 47, of 8 Cotting Ave., Apt. 37, Marlborough, on true warrant.

Friday, Feb. 17

8:56 a.m. Arrested , Matthew Lee Spear, 38, of 15 Dickenson Way, Apt. 80E, Marlborough, on true warrants.

Saturday, Feb. 18

9:47 p.m. Arrested, Paul S. Dinardo, 36, of 496 Lincoln St., Apt. 18, Marlborough, for possess ammunition without FID card, resist arrest, A&B on police officer, interfere with police officer (common law), larceny under $1,200.

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.

This home on Adams Street was damaged in a fire on Feb. 24.

PHOTO/SOUTHBOROUGH FIRE DEPARTMENT

COMMUNITY OBITUARIES

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

DEATHS

Avery, Eleanor of Marlborough

Barcinas, Antonio of Marlborough

Bonazzoli, Richard of Hudson

Burton, Barrie of Shrewsbury

Casey, Michael of Westborough

Cochran, Lillian of Westborough

Cone, Irmgard of Northborough

Doran, Rev. Sylvia of Westborough

Ebens, Richard of Hudson

Erwin, M.D., James of Shrewsbury

Gasparoni, Ostellio of Southborough

Goodhue, Paul of Northborough

Halloran, Craig of South Grafton

Harris, Bernadette of Hudson

Higgins, James of Marlborough

Kennedy, Dennis of Southborough

Laverdure, Blossom of Marlborough

Parker Jr., James formerly of Shrewsbury

Plante, Roland of Hudson

Robinson, Elsie of Northborough

Stopyra, Pauline of Northbridge and Grafton

Viegas, Antonio of Hudson

Weld Jr., Donald of Northborough

TORCHBEARERS

Lillian T. Cochran, 85

WESTBOROUGH – Lillian Theresa Cochran, age 85, passed away peacefully on February 15, 2023, after a long illness. She was born in Boston, Massachusetts on October 6, 1937, to Richard “Dick” Cochran and Lillian Cochran, née Hardcastle.

Lillian is pre-deceased by her older brother Richard Cochran. She is survived by her cousins and her goddaughter, Virginia.

Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.

Dennis P. Kennedy, 81

S OUTHBOROUGH – Dennis Patrick Kennedy, 81, died peacefully on Saturday, February 18, 2023 in

Southborough surrounded by his loving family.

Dennis was born in Toronto, Canada, the son of the late Edmond and Mildred (Bernard) Kennedy.

Dennis is survived by his wife of 61 years Carolyn M. (White) Kennedy, his two sons, Michael C. Kennedy and his husband Tiago of Southborough, David P. Kennedy and his wife Adela of Northborough, his daughter, Julie D. Kennedy Doherty of Southborough, seven grandchildren, Gabriella, Tatyana, Christina, Marc, Danielle, Caroline and Michael.

He was predeceased by his granddaughter, Brianna C. Kennedy in 2002, his son-inlaw, Marc D. Doherty in 2009, two sisters, Carmela Philbrick in 2019 and Marie Gelina in 2021, and a brother, Michael E. Kennedy.

In June of 1981, with a great deal of courage and determination, Dennis and Carolyn realized a dream of opening their own restaurant, Kennedy’s Pub in Marlborough. Dennis was a renowned chef in the area serving restaurants such as Wallace’s, the Maridor, and the Sea & Surf in Framingham;

also, Alphonse’s Powder Mill in Maynard among many others. In 1973, he was named head chef at the Coach Lite Restaurant on Main Street in Marlborough. There, he introduced the open kitchen concept, Delmonico potatoes, and his chicken finished with supreme sauce which later became the ever-popular Kennedy’s Pub Chicken Supreme, often duplicated but never matched! He always had a smile on his face when his popular dish would pop up on menus in the area. While operating the Pub he opened another large restaurant and banquet facility, Kennedy’s West, near the I-495 interchange in Marlborough. It later sold and was re-developed and is now the home of the Hampton Inn. Later he opened Kennedy’s Market where all the goodness of the Pub and more was offered to his cherished customers. Dennis Kennedy was truly an entrepreneur. He adored summers spent with family and friends at his lake home in Maine, treating all to rides in his beloved antique mahogany boats. And, winters were enjoyed in

Naples, Florida playing golf, enjoying the beach, and being the neighborhood fix-it guy helping those in need. Dennis was also an accomplished painter and sculptor, creating many works that were tailored and gifted to those he thought would enjoy them.

Dennis had a great sense of community and was dedicated to improving life for Marlborough residents. He was proud to participate and support The Evening of Giving and Roland’s House fundraisers among others. He was abundantly grateful for the support and patronage of his customers and thought of them as part of his extended Kennedy Family. Dennis will be truly missed by all.

The Short & Rowe Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.

Obituaries | 22

SUPER CROSSWORD

Answers on page 23

COMMUNITY OBITUARIES

Obituaries | from page 21

Pauline Stopyra, 96

NORTHBRIDGE/GRAFTON - Pauline (Lemoine) Stopyra, 96, passed away peacefully February 18, 2023 at Advinia Care in Northbridge. Pauline was born August 30, 1926 in Whitinsville, MA, daughter of the late Rose Anna (Thompson) and George Lemoine. She leaves her children Stanley Stopyra and his wife Cindy, Sally Webb and her husband Stephen and Susan Beauregard and her husband Kenneth, her grandchildren Tuesday McRae, Richard Stopyra, Eric Valle, Russell Beauregard, Douglas Beauregard, Brooke Webb and Nicole Webb, her great-grandchildren Sebastian Hebert, Reagan Stopyra, Iris Stopyra, Jamie Valle and Aurora Valle, her sister Phyllis Bouthelette and several nieces and nephews. Her sister Dorothy Aspinwall predeceased her.

The Roney Funeral Home of North Grafton, assisted with arrangements.

Rev. Sylvia R. Doran, 94

WESTBOROUGH - Rev. Sylvia R. Doran, 94, of Westborough, Massachusetts, passed away on February 8, 2023, after a brief illness. Sylvia was born in Boston, Massachusetts on September 3, 1928. The daughter of James Murray Gavel and Lillian (Kesey) Gavel, she was raised in Medford, Massachusetts. She was predeceased by her husband, Ralph C. Doran.

Sylvia is survived by her former sister-in-law Karen Gavel, her nephews Peter, Paul, and Matthew Gavel and her niece Kari Oevermann; many great nephews and great nieces; and close friends. Her brother, Leslie M. Gavel predeceased her in 2011, as well as a great nephew James M. Gavel in 2009.

LEGAL NOTICES

PROBATE AND FAMILY COURT

INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE

Docket No. MI23PO842EA

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

The Trial Court

Middlesex Division

Probate and Family Court

Estate of: Edward J. Mulrey

Date of Death: November 16, 2022

To all persons interested in the above captioned estate by Petition of Petitioner Stephen F. Mulrey of Statesville NC A Will has been admitted to informal probate.

Stephen F. Mulrey of Statesville NC has been informally appointed as the Personal Representative of the estate to serve without surety on the bond.

The estate is being administered under informal procedure by the Personal Representative under the Massachusetts Uniform Probate Code without supervision by the Court. Inventory and accounts are not required to be filed with the Court, but interested parties are entitled to notice regarding the administration from the Personal Representative and can petition the Court in any matter relating to the estate, including distribution of assets and expenses of administration. Interested parties are entitled to petition the Court to institute formal proceedings and to obtain orders terminating or restricting the powers of Personal Representatives appointed under informal procedure. A copy of the Petition and Will, if any, can be obtained from the Petitioner.

The Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.

Elsie Robinson, 76

NORTHBOROUGH - Elsie May Robinson, 76, of Northborough, Ma passed away peacefully on February 13, 2022, after a very courageous battle with cancer. Elsie grew up in Northborough and was a well-respected Registered Nurse for over 50 years, spending most of her career in the Winthrop area. She is survived by her only son, Anthony Perrier of Winthrop, MA whom she loved and cared for more than anything in life; her sisters Barbara Robinson, Beatrice Girourd and her brother, Fred Robinson. She was predeceased by her brother, Walter Robinson as well as her sister, best friend and partner-in-crime, Mary Robinson Domack. Elsie also leaves behind nieces, nephews and close friends who will miss her terribly. We will also miss her cheesecake.

The Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main Street, Northborough, MA 01532.

Irmgard Cone, 87

NORTHBOROUGH - Irmgard

Cone, a longtime resident of Northborough, passed away peacefully at the age of 87 on Tuesday, February 14, 2023. Irma, as she was lovingly called, was born and raised in Germany, a daughter to Johannes and Karoline (Bressan) Mutschler. In 1958, Irma relocated to the United States. In 1962, Irma relocated to Northborough where she has since resided.

Surviving Irma are her four children, Karola G. Murray and her husband David M. of Pleasant Garden, NC, Barbara I. O’Brien of Hudson, MA, Roland T. Cone III and his wife Claire of W. Brookfield, MA and John T. Cone and his wife Susan of Northborough. She also leaves 8 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren, two sisters Elfriede Richardson of Waltham, MA and Hildagard Rehm of Germany, nieces and nephews. Irma was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years Roland T. Cone, Jr, a grandson Thomas A. O’Brien III, a great-granddaughter Charlie Bednarz and a son-in-law Thomas

GRAFTON

PUBLIC NOTICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW

PROJECT: 124 Westboro Road

LOCATION: 124 Westboro Road, Grafton MA 01536

PROPONENT: Westboro Road Property Owner, LLC c/o GFI Partners, LLC

The undersigned is submitting an Environmental Notification Form (“ENF”) to the Secretary of Energy & Environmental Affairs on or before February 28, 2023

This will initiate review of the above project pursuant to the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (“MEPA,” M.G.L. c. 30, ss. 61-62L). Copies of the ENF may be obtained from: Epsilon Associates, Inc. 3 Mill & Main Place, Suite 250 Maynard, MA 01754 978-897-7100

Electronic copies of the ENF are also being sent to the Conservation Commission and Planning Board of Grafton. The Secretary of Energy & Environmental Affairs will publish notice of the ENF in the Environmental Monitor, receive public comments on the project, and then decide if an Environmental Impact Report is required. A site visit and/or remote consultation session on the project may also be scheduled. All persons wishing to comment on the project, or to be notified of a site visit and/or remote consultation session, should email MEPA@mass.gov or the MEPA analyst listed in the Environmental Monitor. Requests for language translation or other accommodations should be directed to the same email

address. Mail correspondence should be directed to the Secretary of Energy & Environmental Affairs, 100 Cambridge St., Suite 900, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, Attention: MEPA Office, referencing the above project. By Westboro Road Property Owner, LLC c/o GFI Partners, LLC

NORTHBOROUGH

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

The Town of Northborough, MA is seeking proposals from qualified consultants or companies to develop a program to aggregate the electrical load of electricity users within the Town, both residential and commercial and, in consultation with the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (“DOER”) and the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (“Department”), develop, prepare, implement, secure regulatory approval and perform all services related to administering the Town’s Municipal Aggregation Program as defined by and in compliance with all applicable provisions of M.G.L. c. 164, § 134, as amended, and any other applicable statute or regulation related to this process.  RFP available beginning 2/27/2023 at 10am at: https://www.town.northborough. ma.us/bids.  Proposals due 3/23/23 at 2pm.

Scan QR code for rate information or to email your legal notice.

A.

O’Brien, Jr.

The Hays Funeral Home of Northborough assisted with arrangements.

Barrie Burton, 81

SHREWSBURY - Barrie Mitchell Burton, 81, of Shrewsbury, passed peacefully at the Beaumont Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Center, Westborough on Sunday, February 12th, 2023.

Born in Worcester, Barrie was the fourth of five children born to Frank Burton and Marion (Giddings) Burton.

Barrie is predeceased by his parents, Frank Burton and Marion (Giddings) Burton, his brothers David, Steve, and his sister Joanne.

He is survived by his youngest brother Peter, his wife Margaret of 56 years, and his two daughters - Suzanne Burton Kirdahy and her husband Neil, grandsons Cameron Kirdahy and Andrew Kirdahy of Marshfield, MA, and his daughter Jennifer “Llyne” Burton Foy and her husband Jack of Seattle, Washington.

The Chiampa Funeral Home of Shrewsbury assisted with arrangements.

SHREWSBURY

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

This is notice to the residents of Shrewsbury Massachusetts that the School Committee will conduct a FY24 Budget Hearing at its scheduled meeting on March, 29, 2023 at approximately 7:00 pm at the Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, Ma. 01545. Copies of the proposed FY24 Budget may be viewed on the School Department’s website, under the School Committee page FY24 Budget Information.

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY INVITATION TO BID

Sealed bids are requested by the Town Manager for “Reflective Traffic Line Painting” on road surfaces at various locations for a three year contract. Specifications may be obtained at the Highway Division office, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 during normal business hours.

Bids shall be sealed and appropriately marked “Reflective Traffic Line Painting”, will be received in the Office of the Town Manager, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA. 01545, until 11:30 a.m. on Thursday March 23, 2023 at which time and place they will be publicly opened and read aloud.

The second and third year is contingent upon the Town appropriation for these periods.

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

No bidder may withdraw his bid within

(30) days after the date designated above for the filing of bids. The Town reserves the right to reject any and all bids, wholly or in part, and to accept any bid or part thereof deemed by it to be in the best interest of the Town.

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY

Kevin J. Mizikar Town Manager

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY INVITATION TO BID

Sealed bids are requested by the Town Manager for “Misc. Traffic Markings Painting on road surfaces at various locations for a three year contract. Specifications may be obtained at the Highway Division office, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 during normal business hours.

Bids shall be sealed and appropriately marked “Misc. Traffic Markings Painting” and will be received in the Office of the Town Manager, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA. 01545 until 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 23, 2023 at which time and place they will be publicly opened and read aloud.

The second and third years are contingent upon the Town appropriation for these periods.

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

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

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY

Kevin J. Mizikar Town Manager

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Westborough

and creating financial statements. Interested

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We recognize and reward talent with the highest wages in the industry.

• CNC programmer Amada & Haas

• Press brake mechanic

NC9EX Amada

• Turret punch press set up/ operator

• Methods Engineer (JOBBOSS shop control )

• Quality control inspector (flat pattern)

• Welder (hielarc/mig)

• Shipper/Receiver & shipping help

• Customer service, sales & estimator

• Working Forman all around mechanic

• Book keeper/QuickBooks excel

• Part time (general shop help)

Great benefits including medical matched 401 contributions and paid vacations. Located at 40 Hayes Memorial Drive, Marlborough, MA 01752.

Tel 508-786-0309 fax 508-786-0310

Email resume to: sales@apahouser.com

25 Years of Experience Interior/Exterior • Free Estimates

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508-873-5930

Josephlucier57yahoo.com

PRAYER TO ST. JUDE May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, pray for us. St. Jude, worker of miracles, pray for us. St. Jude, the helper of the hopeless, pray for us. Say this nine times a day, for nine days and your prayers will be answered. It has never been known to fail. Publication is necessary. My prayers were and are being answered. - M.S.G.

Family Dental Group of Northborough expands dental and cosmetic services for children and adults

By Kathryn Acciari Contributing Writer

NORTHBOROUGH – Family

Dental Group of Northborough has grown steadily since opening in 2018. The practice has added services and staff to serve its patients, and it has expanded the hours of the Northborough office.

“Family Dental Group is a boutique type of dental practice,” said Dr. Archana Karkhanis-Lavana. “Unlike larger, more corporate practices, we get to know our patients and offer personalized services to fit our patients’ goals and lifestyles.”

Family Dental Group provides dental services for the entire family from age four on into adulthood.

“For children and adults, we provide gentle dental treat-

Dr. Archana Karkhanis-Lavana

ment. Our long-term goal is to continue care for patients as they transition from pediatric dental needs to adult dental services,” said Karkhanis-Lavana.

In addition to dental health services, Karkhanis-Lavana provides a variety of cosmetic services. She talked of recent trends that she is seeing.

“With the increase in virtual

meetings, people have become self-conscious of their appearance, and this has increased their cosmetic awareness,” said Karkhanis-Lavana. “For both teens and adults, Invisalign has grown in popularity. Teeth whitening is still a trend, and I am seeing more people request veneers and full crowns. We are also offering more implant services for patients who want their dentures replaced, as implants create a more naturallooking smile over dentures.”

Dr. Karkhanis-Lavana also offers help for people who suffer from migraines and temporomandibular joint syndrome (TMJ). She is certified to treat patients using Botox, which relaxes the muscles around the jaw.

“Botox releases spasm in the muscles used for eating and clenching,” said Karkhanis-

Lavana. “With repeated Botox treatment, the muscles learn to relax. There is no cure for migraine, but Botox helps ease the severity of migraine as well as TMJ pain.”

For patients who need dental work but do not have insurance, Family Dental Group allows payment through the Sunbit credit card.

“The advantage of using Sunbit is that it is a soft pull on the patient’s credit,” Said Karkhanis-Lavana. “This is a great option for patients who have no dental insurance.”

Karkhanis-Lavana enjoys participating in local events and is grateful for the support of the Northborough community.

“We participated in Applefest last year and welcome opportunities to sponsor local groups. We are thankful for the support that the community

has shown us, and we want to continue to give back,” said Karkhanis-Lavana.

Family Dental Group welcomes new patients, and anyone can call for a consultation to see what options are available to them.

“The greatest compliment that a patient can give us is a referral,” said Karkhanis-Lavana. “With our Care to Share program, a new patient referred to us receives an exam and x-rays for only $1.00.”

In addition to the Northborough office, Family Dental Group has offices in Paxton and Gardner. Visit their website at lavanafamilydental.com or call (508) 466-7211 to schedule a consultation.

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

The Marlborough Commuter Shuttle is back in service!

The 12 -passenger handicap-accessible shuttle connects local commuters between three stops at the Southborough MBTA Commuter Rail, the Apex Center of New England, and the business park located at 200 Forest Street This option provides free public transportation for those who take the train to and/or from Boston and Worcester

COMMUNITY SPORTS

Westborough boys hockey tops Algonquin to win CMADA championship

By Evan Walsh Reporter

WESTBOROUGH – The thirdseeded Westborough High School Rangers boys hockey team defeated the top-seeded Algonquin Regional High School Titans by a score of 3-0, becoming the Central Massachusetts Athletic Directors Association (CMADA) Class A champions on Feb. 24.

Though Westborough eventually emerged victorious, it was Algonquin that started hot and dominated the opening period. The Titans outshot the Rangers 13-4 in the first period.

In a postgame interview with the Community Advocate, Westborough head coach Chet Hallice credited goaltender Will Yearick for “keeping the team in the game.”

“The first period didn’t go as well as we wanted it to, but we fought through it,” Hallice said. “[Will] kept us in the game and

gave us a while to get our feet, and I thought after that we played very well.”

After a difficult first period, Westborough took control of the game. Late in the second period, Connor Cashman scored to put Westborough ahead.

Though Teddy Miller scored in the third period, and Colton McNamara added an empty-

Ribbon Cutting & Open House March 22

net goal with a minute remaining in the game, one goal would be all Westborough needed. The Rangers played tight defense all game, and Yearick made numerous saves.

“I thought we played extremely well early in the game,” Algonquin head coach Greg Cappello said, “but we just couldn’t get by their defense or

goaltender in particular.”

Cappello was highly complimentary of what he called a “super disciplined” and “really determined” Westborough team.

“They did an unbelievable job shutting us down,” he said.

After the final period ended, Westborough players triumphantly skated over to their

raucous fan section, which had loudly cheered for the team throughout the game.

For the Rangers, the CMADA Class A championship was extra sweet, representing a season filled with ups and downs.

“We had a lot of adversity this year… we had a huge illness go through the team midway through the season,” Hallice said. “Finally, we got our health back… [and] I couldn’t be more proud of these kids.”

As both teams eye the state playoff tournament, Cappello shared what he believes Algonquin must improve to be successful going forward.

“We’re used to being in close games, [and] we’ve been on the losing end of a few too many lately,” he said.

“We know games are going to be tougher and tighter, [and] we’ve got to keep finding a way throughout the game and not trying to pull it out of the hat at the end.”

Above: An Algonquin player fights a Westborough player for the puck.

Right: The Westborough Rangers celebrate after scoring their first goal of the night.

PHOTOS/EVAN WALSH

Local teams face tough competition as state tournaments begin this week

By Bill Gilman Senior Reporter

FRANKLIN – Brackets have been released, pairings are set and several local basketball and hockey teams are preparing for the start of the state tournaments this week.

Saint John’s and Algonquin Regional High School qualified for the massive 48-team Division 1 boys’ tournament. No. 28 seed Saint John’s (9-11) beat Chelmsford 62-61 in overtime Feb. 27 and will face Needham March 2. Algonquin, however, fell 51-42 against Methuen.

Grafton High (13-7) is the No. 31 seed in the Division 2 boys’ tournament. The Gators opened tournament play in the preliminary round against No. 34 Newburyport (12-8) March 1 after the Community Advocate goes to press.

Hudson High (12-8) enters the Division 3 boys’ tournament as the No. 12 seed. The Hawks get a bye in the preliminary round. They will face the winner of Bishop Stang versus

Monty Tech in the round of 32.

Algonquin (12-8) earned a bid to the Division 1 girls’ tournament as the No. 29 seed. They beat Lynn Classical Feb. 27 and took on Wachusett March 2.

Westborough (13-8) will play in the Division 2 girls’ tournament as the No. 22 seed. The Rangers beat Agawam and played against Nashoba March 2 after press.

Grafton High and Marlborough High will also be playing in the Division 2 girls’ tournament. Grafton (17-3) is the No. 30 seed and played No. 35 Dighton-Rehoboth in the preliminary round March 1. Marlborough (9-9) is the No. 38 seed and met No. 27 Notre Dame of Hingham Feb. 28.

Hudson High (18-2) is the No. 7 seed in the Division 3 girls’ tournament. The Hawks open play in the round of 32 against No. 26 Auburn.

The Advanced Science and Math Academy (12-8) is the No. 34 seed in the Division 3 girls tournament. They competed

against No. 31 Diman RVT on March 1.

Hockey

The Shrewsbury High girls (16-2-2) are seeded No. 3 in the Division 1 tournament and opened play against No. 30 Old Rochester Regional in the first round March 1.

Algonquin Regional (16-3-1) has earned the No. 5 seed in the girls’ Division 2 tournament. The Titans opened play in the round of 32 against No. 28 Natick (10-8-2) on March 1.

Saint John’s (9-10-1) is seeded No. 9 in the stacked Division 1 boys’ tournament. The Pioneers opened play on March 2 against No. 24 Winchester.

Shrewsbury (10-10) snuck into the tournament as the No. 26 seed. The Colonials played in the round of 32 against No. 7 Xavarian Brothers March 1.

Algonquin Regional (13-4-2) is the No. 7 seed in the Division 2 tournament and played in the round of 32 against Newton South on March 1.

Marlborough (12-5-2) enters

the boys’ Division 3 tournament as the No. 6 seed. The Panthers hosted No. 27 Middleborough in the round of 32 on March 1. Grafton High (18-2-0) holds the No. 4 seed in the Division 4 boys’ tournament. The Gators played in the round of 32 against No. 29 Rockport March 2.

Assabet Valley (14-6-0) earned the No. 14 seed also in Division 4. The Aztecs competed in the round of 32 against No. 19 Amesbury March 2.

Westborough’s Nguyen places at state meet

By Bill Gilman Senior Reporter

BOSTON – Westborough High’s

Alan Nguyen turned in a sensational performance at the Annual All-State Indoor Track and Field Championships last Saturday at the Reggie Lewis Center.

Nguyen, a senior, earned all-

state honors in two events. He placed second in the long jump with a best leap of 22-06.50. Nguyen was also fourth in the 55-meter hurdles.

The performance wrapped up an outstanding indoor season for Nguyen, who won the D3 boys title in the 55-meter hurdles one week earlier.

A pair of Saint John’s high jumpers earned all-state honors. Junior Antonio Wiafe placed third with a best leap of 6-4, matching the best jumps of champion Rowan McConkey of Arlington and runner-up Camren Allain of Carver. The top three spots were determined by misses.

Pioneer senior Callum Brown placed seventh with a best jump of 6-2.

Saint John’s distance runner Nathan Lopez turned in a strong race in the 2-mile, placing second in a time of 9:01.32.

Teammate Chris McDonough earned all-state honors with a fifth place finish in the 55-meter dash in 6.50 seconds.

The Shrewsbury High team of seniors William Jiang, Chase Orciuch, Declan Daley and Niko Manolakos also garnered allstate honors, placing eighth in the 4x800-meter relay in a time of 8:12.35.

Knapp claims All-State wrestling championship Algonquin Regional’s Raphael Knapp made history last weekend, becoming the first wrestler in school history to win an all-state championship.

Knapp, a senior, was utterly dominant en route to the 170-pound title. He pinned Central Catholic’s Caden Chase in the semifinal, then overwhelmed Norton Gabe Thomasson, 15-5, in the title match.

Knapp is now 47-1 this season, 127-14 in his career with state Division 1 and all-state championships under his belt. The only remaining piece of business for Knapp to take care of is the New England Championships this weekend in Providence, R.I.

Grafton’s McInerny hits 1,000-point mark, aims even higher

By Bill Gilman Senior Reporter

GRAFTON – With the school’s rich athletic history, the walls of the Grafton High’s gymnasium are decorated with banners celebrating countless championships and individual honors.

Heading into the 2022-23 school year, one glaring omission to the list of achievements was a 1,000-point scorer from the boys’ basketball team.

Gators’ senior Ethan McInerny took care of that piece of business last month, draining a 3-pointer in the first half of a 70-65 loss to Doherty to reach 1,000 for his four-year varsity career.

For McInerny, it was the fulfillment of a dream that had its roots in junior high school.

“I knew I was going to get to 1,000 when I was in eighth grade,” he said. “There’s a picture of me at eighth grade graduation and I’m standing under that banner of 1,000-point scorers. I just knew I wanted it

so badly. I’d do whatever I had to do to get it.”

McInerny becomes just the second Gators athlete, male or female, to reach 1,000 points.

Gigi LeMay, now a senior at Worcester State, is the all-time leading scorer at GHS with 1,099 points. Heading into the Gators’ Clark Tournament

semifinal against Millbury, McInerny sat at 1,043, just 56 points behind.

“Right now, I’m trying not to think about it too much,” said McInerny, who is averaging 18.3 points per game. “Right now I’m just focused on trying to help my team win.”

At 13-6, Grafton has already

locked up a berth in the Division 2 State Tournament.

Grafton Coach John Patraitis said it’s not all that surprising that a program like Grafton’s hadn’t yet had a 1,000-point scorer. He explained it can be hard for young players to crack the regular rotation on a team that is winning consistently.

“We have been pretty successful over the past 19 years and have had good players,” said Patraitis. “And when you have that kind of success, it’s unusual to have a freshman contribute. And to get to 1,000, you really need to be contributing as a freshman to get on pace. We’ve probably only had four or five freshmen contribute [on varsity] since I’ve been here.”

A family legacy

In his four years at Grafton, McInerny’s game has evolved.

From his start as a pure jump shooter, the 5-10 guard has developed into a skilled ball handler who spends as much time slashing through

the paint as he does around the perimeter. Being an 83 percent free throw shooter has also allowed him to score 70 of his 331 points this year from the line.

McInerny was taught to play basketball by his father. He is the eldest of four siblings, all of whom play. Making his senior year extra special has been having his brother Lucas, a sophomore, on the varsity roster with him.

“It’s been great. I didn’t think I’d get the chance to play with him but it’s been awesome,” said McInerny. “He guards me all the time during practice.”

McInerny has yet to decide where he will be attending college in the fall. In the meantime, he is continuing to work on his game, looking to garner the attention of college scouts.

“I’m in the gym all the time, working at it, trying to get better,” he said. “I’ve realized that if I want to play at the next level, I have to adapt, get better at my defense and ball handling and getting to the rim.”

PHOTO/BILL GILMAN