CA 250905 REG_WEB

Tragedy in Shrewsbury

Father shot dead near Jordan Pond after dropping off child at school

8:47 a.m. (Aug. 28)

Calls reporting a potential shooting come into 911. Shrewsbury PD immediately responds.

By Evan Walsh Managing Editor

Streets near Jordan Pond close; residents are told to shelter because of an ‘armed and dangerous’ suspect.

SHREWSBURY – A Shrewsbury father was killed after an incident following school drop-off.

At 8:47 a.m. on Aug. 28, a 56-year-old man, identified as Kevin Doherty, was walking the Jordan Pond trails; he had just dropped his 6-yearold son off at school, and was holding a children’s scooter and helmet. While returning from the drop-off, he noticed a 26-year-old, identified as Snehal A. Srivastava, of Shrewsbury, on a bridge by Jordan Pond holding spray-paint, potentially vandalizing the area, said Worcester County District Attorney Joseph D. Early, Jr.

Doherty took a picture of the person carrying the spray-paint, leading to an altercation.

Soon after, Doherty dialed 911. While he was on the line, the dispatcher heard several gunshots, Doherty saying “he shot me,” then silence, according to court documents and Shrewsbury Police Chief Kevin Anderson. The Shrewsbury Police Department responded to the call and saw that Doherty had been shot.

Doherty died en route to the hospital.

Shrewsbury Police Chief Kevin Anderson announces that a resident died. The suspect surrendered, he says.

Anderson sends another statement: ‘No words can ease the pain of such a ... devastating loss,’ it reads.

a.m. (Aug.

The suspect, Snehal A. Srivastava, 26, is publicly identified at Westborough District Court.

‘An

undeniable choice’

Marcia Roman named 2025 Applefest grand marshal

NORTHBOROUGH — Some would say Northborough isn’t Northborough without Marcia Roman.

Northborough welcomes new town clerk Zschokke steps into leadership role of Find The Cause McGovern visits

| 13

Westborough on annual farm tour ‘The stars aligned’: Shrewsbury canine sets dock-diving record NORTHBOROUGH | 4

| 14 SHREWSBURY

After decades of good deeds and community involvement, Roman will be in the spotlight when Northborough celebrates Applefest from Sept. 18 to 21. She’s been named the 2025 Applefest grand marshal.

But Roman doesn’t do it for the accolades. Read more about this community star — an “undeniable choice” — on page 18.

Worcester County District Attorney Joseph D. Early, Jr. and Shrewsbury Police Chief Kevin Anderson address reporters after the tragic incident. (Photo/Evan Walsh)

Tragedy | 5

I am extremely grateful and honored that the 11th Annual Hannah Kane Charity Classic was a tremendous success! We had a beautiful day for our tournament with a strong sense of camaraderie among our golfers. I am very thankful for all the generous individuals and businesses who contributed to our efforts to raise funds for three hard-working human service organizations in our community: St. Anne’s Human Services, Shrewsbury Youth and Family Services and Westborough Food Pantry.

I am also extremely grateful for Beth Casavant as our Tournament Director, all of the volunteers, the host committee, the golf participants, the sponsors and those who donated auction items, as well as the staff at the Haven Country Club, for their role in making the tournament a success. Thanks to this strong team effort, we were able to donate $60,000, which will allow our three beneficiary organizations to support more people in our community who need a helping hand. Thank you all for your hard work and dedication!

PRESENTING SPONSOR

Grossman Development Group

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LEADER BOARD SPONSORS

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BREAKFAST SPONSOR

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CADDIE SPONSOR

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PAR SPONSORS

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SCORE APP SPONSOR

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TEE SPONSORS

Arturo’s Ristorante

Bay State Bank

Beaton Family

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Cold Harbor Brewing Company

Congressman Jim McGovern

Continental Auto Sales Inc.

Cornerstone Energy Services

Dellbrook | JKS

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Dot Green

E.L. Harvey

EverRise—Brian Ganger

EverRise—James Ball

Federal Street Capital Partners

Fletcher Tilton PC

Flynn’s Truck Plaza/Al’s Oil Service

Ian and Maureen Johnson

Jim & Janet Harvey Family

Law Offices of Joseph R. Jenkins

LPA|Architects

Mathieu Newton Sotheby’s Int’l Realty

Moderator Jim Kane

Napoli Italian Deli & Catering

Patti Faucher Real Estate

Tee Sponsors con’d.

Petrucci Family

Remembering Olivia “Livy” Colby from Harvey Lane, Westborough

Romaine’s Kitchen & Bar

Select Board Member Beth Casavant

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Shrewsbury Select Board

Shrewsbury Police Patrol Officers

NEPBA 191

Shrewsbury Republican Town Committee

Ski Ward

GOP State Committee Member

Mindy McKenzie

Sterling Concrete

Steve and Gayle Vigeant

Table Talk Pies

Thank you for all you do for our community, Hannah Kane! From Bryce Grenier

The Ground Round

Webster Five Bank

Westborough Food Pantry

in Memory of Susan Hathaway-Blois

Weston & Sampson

HOST COMMITTEE

Kelly Barner, George Barrette, Brian Beaton, Matt Beaton, Ron Bertelli, Bonnie Bryce, Jim Buonomo, Paula Buonomo, Paul Campaniello, Beth Casavant, Scott Casavant, Natalie Corridan-Gregg, Melissa Fahs, Tom Fahs, David Faucher, Tom Gorsuch, Dot Green, Michael Hale, John Heald, Robert Jacques, Ian Johnson, Maureen Johnson, Jim Kane, Elaine Leblanc, Kim Lipka, Kelly Olvert, Jason Palitsch, Melanie Petrucci, Richard Ricker, Gayle Vigeant, and Steve Vigeant

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will not be accepted. Letters should be 350 words or less. Deadline is 12 p.m. Friday the week before publication. Opinions expressed in the letters to the editor do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Community Advocate management or its advertisers.

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

Dear Editor,

It makes absolutely no sense to us why many in town reject our message, when our life’s mission is to get rid of interest on loans.

From a totally myopic selfish perspective, we ask even the upper middle class people of Northborough to consider if they have paid more in interest over a lifetime or have they received more in interest, not even including secondary effects from taxes and inflation. If it’s the former, why on earth would you oppose our agenda?

Whether you are on the “left” and are rightfully concerned about unjust wealth disparities, or “right” and correctly oppose government waste and obscene taxes, usury is the causa prima of both.

USURY IS UNEARNED WEALTH. The “Time Value of Money” is a hoax funded by the banks to justify their depravity as is all economic “science” which uses arcane arbitrary symbols that have no relation whatsoever to the real economy, which can never be described by reductionist mathematics.

Forty percent of all prices is interest passed on; blaming the government or the corporations, although necessary, does not get to the root. The money power divides and conquers using the left/right dialectic to prevent a united front against usury.

Ban interest on loans and we could have low taxes, less bureaucracy, AND better, fully funded public services.

Getting rid of usury must be the preeminent political issue amongst all people of the world. It is the cause of environmental problems and war. The love of money is the root of all evil, the Good Book says.

So what can we do at the local level? Ellen Brown’s book “The Public Bank Solution” points us in the right direction.

A practical case study is the State Bank of North Dakota, the only state during the 2008 Financial Crisis that prospered, because the money of the bank was largely reinvested in state infrastructure instead of being siphoned off to Wall Street crooks.

The book describes how such a bank can be sized down to the municipal level, which could help us finance important capital investments in town and provide liquidity to local businesses. This would allow us to move away from the supposed necessity of prostituting ourselves to international capital and would greatly reduce our tax burden.

Michael A. Leonard, Northborough

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Northborough welcomes new town clerk

By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter

NORTHBOROUGH — For Daymian Bartek, Northborough’s new town clerk, the job is all about people.

Bartek joined the clerk’s office in July, taking over for former Town Clerk Andrew Dowd, who retired after 26 years in the position. Bartek has served as

the town clerk in West Boylston since 2021. She got her start in Rutland, first in the Assessor’s Office, and then shifting over to serve as the town’s assistant town clerk for a little over three years.

It was in Rutland that her love for public service blossomed.

“I fell in love. I just knew it was for me,” Bartek said.

“I love dealing with elections

and making sure that we keep the integrity of the elections,” she added.

Working in a larger town means more needs, a challenge Bartek said she’s ready to tackle.

For now, Bartek is learning the ins and outs of Northborough, but said the office wants to focus on “future facing” initiatives, such as its digital records.

Though she’s less than a month in, Bartek said she’s fallen in love with Northborough and the “wealth of knowledge” in the clerk’s office. Dowd left big shoes to fill, she said, though he also left the office in “great shape.”

Bartek had known Dowd through the Clerk’s Association, even reaching out to him with questions when she first started as the assistant town clerk in Rutland. She was excited to step into her new Northborough role, and said the town has been nothing short of welcoming.

“It’s hard to see a new face and see where somebody’s been for a long time. But everybody’s been so welcoming. Everybody’s been stopping in, from the fire chief to the police chief to the Department of Public Works, everybody. So it’s been great,” she said.

For residents looking to learn more about Bartek and Northborough elections, she only had one thing to say.

by Matt Sandock and Ian White

“My door is always open,” Bartek said. Thirstday

We will be showing 11 wines from the Ordonez collection of wines. This is the most prestigious Spanish portfolio that is brought into the US. Jorge Ordonez is very much responsible for helping to revolutionize the Spanish wine industry in both Spain and America. We will show wines that over deliver for their price points and will have open, Red, White, bubbles and 1 sweetie. Don’t miss out on these delicious wines that pack a big punch. Pouring will be Ian White and Matt Sandock from Classic Wine & Spirits who bring in the Ordonez Portfolio.

Father shot dead near Jordan Pond after dropping off child at school

“First and foremost, I’d like to send our thoughts and prayers to the friends and family of the victim of this tragic incident,” Anderson told reporters that afternoon.

“In difficult times, the strength of Shrewsbury has always been found in our unity. I encourage each of you to check in on one another, offer kindness where you can, and keep this grieving family in your thoughts and prayers. Our community is strongest when we stand together. Today, we mourn as one. Tomorrow, we will continue to support each other and honor the life that was taken too soon,” Anderson said in a written statement on Aug. 29.

Using drone technology, the Shrewsbury Police Department located Srivastava, the suspect, a short time later at 29 Edgewater Avenue, a single-family house in Shrewsbury spray-painted with phrases like “Free Palestine,” “Free Congo,” and “BLM.”

With the assistance of the Massachusetts State Police Special Tactical Operations Team

(STOP Team), law enforcement achieved a peaceful resolution when Srivastava surrendered without further incident.

Srivastava was “known” to the Shrewsbury Police Department, Anderson confirmed. One day prior to the incident, the department responded to a call in the same area after “Coolidge Street Crips” graffiti was discovered painted along the ground.

Srivastava had been arrested by the Shrewsbury Police Department several other times — including once for assaulting a police officer — according to Community Advocate police logs. Srivastava also allegedly wielded a machete in an incident in Westborough.

At an Aug. 29 arraignment, Srivastava — who identifies as transgender and uses other names on online profiles, according to reports — pleaded not guilty to two charges: “armed assault with intent to murder” and “carrying a firearm without a license.” The next court date in this case is Sept. 12.

The first warning about the shooting came from the Shrewsbury Police Department Facebook page, which stated that there was a “large law enforcement presence” in the Jordan Pond area, including Edgewater Avenue and Plainfield Avenue. Jordan Pond is located south of Route 9, near White City. The incident did not involve

Coolidge Elementary School, which is nearby. Coolidge was briefly put into “lockdown,” and the district quickly sent out an announcement that students, staff, and faculty were safe and secure inside the building. Surrounding roads were closed to the public, and the “large law enforcement presence” included armored ve -

hicles, over 10 cruisers, SWAT teams, fire engines, ambulances, and several helicopters. The suspect was labeled as “armed and dangerous.”

A vigil is being organized on Oct. 11 to honor Doherty. Continue reading the Community Advocate for further coverage of this tragedy.

Note: This is a list of single-family home sales for the dates specified. Certain transfers may have been omitted due to space constraints. These listings have been sold by a wide variety of local realty firms and not exclusively by Castinetti Realty Group.

457 Main Street, Shrewsbury

630 South Street, Shrewsbury

27 Wachusett Circle, Shrewsbury

8 Saint James Road, Shrewsbury

44 Clews Street, Shrewsbury

6 Birch Lane, Shrewsbury

6 Birch Lane

26 Grove Street, Westborough

3 Reed Avenue, Westborough

2 Copperbeech Circle, Westborough

12 Jefferson Road, Westborough

30 Collins Road, Northborough

347 Whitney Street, Northborough

59 Davis Street, Northborough

35 Fay Mountain Road, Grafton

38 South Street, Grafton

22 Clearview Street, Grafton

80 Tremont Street, Marlborough

129 Taylor Road, Marlborough

$2,300,000 Scott R. Wagner, Ronald W. Wagner, Marsha K. Wagner

$675,000 Jerzy Duda, Anna Duda

$930,000 Kim Buturlia, Jason Kallio

$550,000 David Kerr

$625,000 Lawrence E. Barton, Patricia A. Wheeler

$665,000 Jesse O. Torto, Nicole S. Gadbois

$665,000 Chandra Bharali, Karabi Bharali

$1,775,000 Andrew Liazos, Margaret Liazos

$1,850,000 Sharon Goldberg, Theodore Goldberg

$1,425,000 Pamela A. Massad, David G. Massad II

$319,000 Edward G. Wright, Gail M. Wright

$920,000 Michael Curley, Alexandria Mimms

$855,000 Meghan Lazo, Robert J. Lazo

$434,400 Melissa R. Hermans, Alfred D. Hermans Jr.

$838,500 Paul F. OMalley, Kelly O'Malley

$1,040,000 Aaron Feldstein, April Feldstein

$580,000 Michael Reardon

$1,250,000 Glenn L. Noland, Lynn B. Noland

35 Windmill Drive, Marlborough $627,000 Melissa DeMichele

Thomas Burke, Rebekah Kadetz

Souadatou Diallo, Makan Diawando

Jennifer Donahue, Ryan P. Donahue

Matthew Erickson

Jesus Balanzar, Meghan Monk

William Crocker, Danielle Crocker

Kathryn Ellis

Jolly Samson

Daniel Florean, Raluca Gordan

Maria Pardo, Rafael Rosenzuaig

Mattson Properies LLC

Ashleigh J. Bench, Michael E. Bench

Christian Giotas, Savanna Giotas

Tranvu Tam Thanh

Paul Alward

Ankur Upadhyay, Ananya Pandey

Alyson M. Cox, Kenneth H. Cox

Sean A. Navin, Jessica L. Navin

Tobey Pineda

130 Elm Street, Marlborough $760,000 Andrelino Deus Lovely Eloiseau

8 Ashley Road, Southborough

$1,045,000 Benjamin Gavin, Stacy Gavin

17 Fiddleneck Lane, Southborough $1,400,000 Michael T. Burns, Jennifer L. Burns

2 Lark Drive, Hudson

$600,000 Michael A. Panzera, Judith A. Panzera

34 Marlboro Street, Hudson $869,000 David W. Pauplis

Chuncheng Tao

David Markle, Karolina Markle

Carlos Colon, Cindy Agosto

Joel M. Nemr

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More Contracts Are Falling Through. Here’s How To Get Ahead.

Elaine Quigley, CBR, CRS, GRI

Elaine.Quigley@commonmoves.com

Cell: (508) 735-5161

www.EQRE.com

Whenyou sell a house, the last thing you want is for the deal to fall apart right before closing. But according to the latest data from Redfin, that’s happening a bit more often lately. The good news is, it’s completely avoidable if you lean on an agent for insight into why that is and how to avoid it happening to you.

This June, 15% of pending home sales fell through. That means those buyers backed out of their contracts. That’s not too much higher than the norm of roughly 12% from 2017-2019, but it’s still an increase. And it’s one you don’t want to have to deal with.

The key to avoiding this headache is knowing what’s causing the issues that lead to a buyer walking away. A recent survey from John Burns Research and Consulting (JBREC) and Keeping Current Matters (KCM) finds that agents reported the #1 reason deals are falling apart today is stemming from the home inspection.

Here’s why. With high prices and mortgage rates stretching buyers’ budgets, they don’t have a lot of room (or appetite) for unexpected repairs.

Not to mention, buyers have more options to choose from now that there are more homes on the market. So, if the

inspection turns up a major issue, they may opt to walk away. Afterall, there are plenty of other homes they could buy instead.

Or, if the seller isn’t willing to tackle repairs, a buyer may back out because they don’t want the expense (and the hassle) of dealing with those issues themselves.

The good news is, there’s a way you can get ahead of any unpleasant surprises as a seller, and that’s getting a pre-listing inspection. It’s not required, but the National Association of Realtors (NAR) explains why it’s helpful right now:

“To keep deals from unraveling . . . it allows a seller the opportunity to address any repairs before the For Sale sign even goes up. It also can help avoid surprises like a costly plumbing problem, a failing roof or an outdated electrical panel that could cause financially stretched buyers to bolt before closing.”

What’s a Pre-Listing Inspection?

It’s exactly what it sounds like: a professional home inspection you schedule before your home hits the market. Here’s what it can do for you:

• Give you time to fix what matters. You’ll know what issues could come up in the buyer’s inspection. So, you’ll have time to take care of them before anyone even walks through the door.

• Avoid last-minute renegotiations. When buyers uncover unexpected issues after you’re under contract, it opens the door for concessions you may have to make like price drops or repairs, or worse, a canceled deal. A pre-listing inspection helps you stay ahead of those things before they become deal breakers.

• Show buyers you’re serious. When your home is clean, well-maintained, and already vetted, buyers see that. It builds trust and can help you sell faster with fewer back-and-forth negotiations.

The bottom line? A few hundred dollars upfront can save you thousands later.

Should Every Seller Do This?

Not necessarily. Your real estate agent can help you decide what makes the most sense for your situation, your house, and your market. If you decide to move forward with a pre-listing inspection, your agent will guide you every step of the way. They’ll:

• Advise on whether to fix or disclose each issue

• Help you prioritize repairs based on what buyers in your area care about

• Make sure you understand your local disclosure laws Bottom Line

If you want to avoid potential snags in your deal, a prelisting inspection could be the way to go. Let’s talk about whether a pre-listing inspection is the right move for your house and market.

Would you rather find out about a major repair now, when you can handle it on your terms – or after you’re under contract, when the clock is ticking?

Citizens Bank plans to open branch along Route 9

By Evan Walsh Managing Editor

SHREWSBURY – A former medical clinic is set to become a bank branch.

Citizens Bank, one of the largest U.S. financial institutions, is planning to open a branch at 222-224 Turnpike Road. The 5,500-square-foot building located on the site was formerly a ReadyMed, and most recently a Reliant Medical Group office.

Citizens Bank plans to renovate the property, and according to plans, the design includes several different exterior signs, an ATM room (available through a separate entrance), several offices, a teller line, a cash-counting room, a conference room, restrooms, and IT support rooms.

There would be no drive-up window for this bank.

Parking has been the only hiccup. Citizens Bank went before the ZBA in August to request a parking variance. There are only 17 spots – an 18th spot

may be created with renovations – where 38 are required. Parking is accessible off of Svenson Street.

“Because of the shape and configuration of the parking lot, the most we can get is one more parking space. We did look at making tandem parking spaces on one side, but it’s an odd parking lot. Instead of having a 22foot lane, it’s about 36 feet, and we can’t get tandem and still have a lane,” an architect representing Citizens told the ZBA.

The bank expects to have a need for about 20 spaces. During peak hours, three tellers would be available; normally, about two tellers would be working. There are only six chairs in the waiting room, the architect said, and he didn’t expect any significant crowds. Should Citizens Bank move to the parcel, Shrewsbury will have a banking block rivaled only by the likes of Wall Street. With TD Bank and Berkshire Bank locations as neighbors, Route 9 will have back-to-backto-back bank branches.

Central One recognized as top 10 credit union to work for in the U.S.

SHREWSBURY – Central One Federal Credit Union is proud to announce that it has been recognized as one of the top 10 credit unions to work for in American Banker’s list of “Best Credit Unions to Work For” in 2025. This prestigious recognition not only validates Central One’s commitment to its employees, but also en-

hances its reputation in the industry.

Out of the 68 U.S. credit unions included on the list, Central One is the only credit union from the Northeast to receive this prestigious recognition, an achievement that highlights the value it places on employee culture.

“Being named a Best Em-

ployer is an honor that reflects both our commitment to our employees and the impact they make every day in the lives of our members and communities”, said Central One Chief People & Culture Officer Kerry Crutchley. “Our people are the core of who we are, and this recognition celebrates them.”

Be Cheerful!

Central One is committed to fostering a sense of community and inclusion among its employees. The company values their input and ideas, which is why it provides various platforms such as surveys and suggestion boxes. Central One’s employee-first approach is all about making everyone feel valued and ap -

Cheerfulness is a Christian obligation and, if we measure up to it, it brings rich dividends in our spiritual lives. As a child of God, you can experience the joy and inspiration of the living Christ in your life, enabling you to overcome all moodiness when other hassle you, and to rejoice in the spiritual experience that transforms depression into true cheerfulness.

Your daily walk with Jesus Christ, the glorious promises contained in His Word, and the experience of God’s profound mercy that transcends understanding; these will fill your life with joy, purpose and direction.

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!

preciated every day.

Central One Federal Credit Union is a full-service, notfor-profit, cooperative financial institution serving Massachusetts residents and businesses. Branches are in Auburn, Milford, Northborough, Shrewsbury, Westborough, and Worcester.

• Selection by Lottery. Use & Occupancy Restrictions Apply

• Household Size Preference Applies

• Preference for Households with Mobility Impairments for Accessible Units For more information, free language assistance, or reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities, please call (617) 531-7123

Applications must be submitted online, faxed, or postmarked no later than Friday, September 12th, 2025

Mailed

Information Session:

Sponsored by Chief Joseph Robert J. Terkanian, P.O. Box 808

WRTA celebrates 5-million-ride milestone

WORCESTER — The Worcester Regional Transit Authority (WRTA) is proud to announce it has surpassed 5 million rides this year, a milestone that reflects not just growing ridership, but the authority’s deepening impact on equity and access in the Central Massachusetts region.

Public transit has long been a critical link to opportunity for thousands of residents. It con-

nects people to jobs, schools, healthcare, grocery stores, and essential services. For those without access to a car, transit offers independence, consistency, and a reliable way to participate in daily life.

WRTA has provided farefree service since 2020, made possible through funding from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act and the Fair Share

Exceptional

Care

For Families and Community.

Residential Memory Care

• Short Term Rehabilitation

• Adult & Pediatric Hospice

• Adult & Pediatric Palliative Care

• Spiritual Care

Amendment. Suspending fares has helped eliminate a major barrier for riders, making transit more accessible and equitable across the region. This has played a significant role in reaching the 5-millionride milestone by allowing more people to rely on public transportation without the burden of cost.

“Surpassing 5 million rides is a powerful reminder of the

a pet is an enriching experience, and there is no denying the bond formed. Whether a dog, cat, rabbit, or bird, pets provide a source of love and happiness. Pet ownership can help reduce stress, anxiety and depression, lower blood pressure, and increase social interaction and physical activity, all of which significantly affect one’s quality of life. These benefits are particularly true for senior pet owners. Owning a pet gives older adults a sense of purpose. It gives them something to take care of and be responsible for. However, it’s essential to remember that pet ownership isn’t for every older adult. It can be expensive, and some breeds may not be suitable due to their size and maintenance requirements.

Residents of New Horizons

essential role public transit plays in the lives of our residents,” said WRTA Administrator Josh Rickman. “This milestone reflects the ongoing investments in service reliability, route efficiency, and community engagement. Our operators, contractors, and staff have worked hard to make transit more dependable, responsive, and aligned with the needs of the people we serve.”

Seniors on the move

WRTA Advisory Board Chairperson Doug Belanger added: “This achievement shows what happens when we prioritize smart planning and consistent service delivery. From expanding service hours to launching new initiatives, WRTA has stayed focused on building a transit system people can count on. Five million rides is proof that we’re moving in the right direction.”

health condition heal faster. Pets provide a sense of both physical and mental security for seniors, especially for those who live alone. Pet shelters in your local area depend on volunteers to keep them operational. If you are in need of some unconditional love, call your local shelter. NOTRE DAME LONG TERM CARE CENTER offers assisted living, long term care and rehabilitation, hospice care, and pediatric palliative care. To learn more, please call (508) 852-3011. You can also schedule a tour of our facilities at 559 Plantation Street.

P.S. Pet therapy is available all over the country for those unable to own an animal.

Seniors who have pets are less likely to suffer early onset of dementia and having a beloved pet to care for and love can make a senior who is healing from an illness or

MariAnn Paladino, Dir. of Admissions, Notre Dame Health Care Center, Inc. Long Term Care Center 559 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 508-534-8302

OWNING A PET

MariAnn Paladino, Director of Admissions

St. Mary’s Credit Union taps Lee as new CEO

MARLBOROUGH— St. Mary’s Credit Union (SMCU) announced the appointment of Grace Lee as its new president and CEO.

Lee brings a deep and diverse background in finance, banking, and private and public sector service to St. Mary’s Credit Union. She officially assumed the role on Aug. 18. Lee joins St. Mary’s Credit

Union after serving as Eastern Massachusetts Regional President and Group Lead of New England Government Banking at M&T Bank, where she was responsible for the overall strategic development and growth of the MA market. In addition, Lee championed the M&T Charitable Foundation’s efforts, which contributed $3.3 million to Massachusetts

nonprofits and oversaw 12,600 hours of employee volunteer work in 2023.

She has held leadership roles in both the private and public sectors, including positions with People’s United, Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott LLC, and the State of Massachusetts Office of the State Treasurer and Receiver General. Lee also served as a civil rights attorney for the United States Department of Education Office for Civil Rights.

“Grace brings a rare blend of executive leadership, government insight, community passion, and deep operational expertise,” said Jerry Richer,

“I am incredibly humbled by the opportunity to lead an organization with such an outstanding reputation, which has outperformed its peers by valuing its members.”

chair of the St. Mary’s Credit Union Board of Directors. “Her understanding of both systems and people will be an asset leading St. Mary’s Credit Union into its next chapter.”

Lee is deeply involved in the community, serving on boards and advisory committees, including the Roxbury Community College Foundation, the Asian Task Force Against Domestic Violence, the New England Council, and the New England Legal Foundation. She also serves on the Board of Directors for the Mass High Tech Council and the South Shore Hospital, and is an active leader in the Greater Boston Chamber

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2025 SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2025

of Commerce.

Lee’s background and commitment to community impact will serve as a powerful asset in St. Mary’s Credit Union’s work across MetroWest’s growing communities. Her communitydriven values align with St. Mary’s mission and culture, and she looks forward to immersing herself in and building upon the credit union’s legacy.

“St. Mary’s is a best-in-class institution,” said Lee. “I am incredibly humbled by the opportunity to lead an organization with such an outstanding reputation, which has outperformed its peers by valuing its members.”

Grace Lee — St. Mary’s Credit Union CEO

WESTBOROUGH THEN NOW

By Kate Tobiasson History Columnist

WESTBOROUGH - Before the petition to create the “Town of Chancy,” now known as Westborough, was signed in 1702, Thomas Rice and his wife, Anne, had laid claim to a farmstead in Downtown Westborough. In 1675, the courageous couple built a large garrison home near the current location of Westborough High School. Thomas and Anne worked tirelessly, and the threat of attack from Indigenous peoples was ever-present. Their family grew to include 13 children; everyone worked to contribute to the farm as soon as they were old enough.

One warm summer day in 1704, two of Thomas’ sons, Asher, a 10-year-old, and Adonijah, an 8-year-old, were working in the fields with three of their cousins, Silas, 7, Timothy, 7, and Nahor, 5. As the boys were working in the field, a group of eight Kahnawake warriors, a tribe from the Mohawk Nation, came from the woods and captured the boys. Too young to defend themselves, the Rice boys did all that they could to fight the Kahnawake; Nahor was killed in the struggle.

During this time, a great amount of sickness had struck the Mohawk tribes, and it was customary to capture and adopt people from other lands and have them replace those whose lives had been lost. This tradition helped ensure the perpetuity of the tribes.

As soon as they discovered what had happened, the boys’ fathers, Thomas and Edmund, rushed back to the farmstead to gather weapons and help. The Kahnawake set a fierce pace towards Canada, working along the way to teach the Rice boys about their ways and the world around them. Thomas and Edmund tracked the boys north, but they weren’t able to negotiate to return the boys home. They returned to Westborough from the Kahnawake Reservation – located on the Saint Lawrence River, about 10 miles north of Montreal – empty-handed, but not resigned to losing their sons.

Thomas was able to secure the aid of Colonel Lydius of Al-

bany, and Asher, now aged 14, was brought home. Asher was known to all as a bit of an eccentric; he had adjusted to life as a Mohawk, but was viewed by all as a colonist. Asher lived in fear of recapture and built stockades around his home. Adonijah remained with the Mohawk, living in Canada and going by the name Assundugoooton. His first marriage was to a French woman and then a Dutch woman, and he had a successful farm outside of Montreal, not far from the reservation.

Edmund’s sons, Silas and Timothy, fully assimilated to the way of the Iroquois. Silas became known as Tannahorens, later marrying Marie Tsiakowahi; the couple was happily married and had at least five children. Timothy adopted the name Oughtzorongoughton and was adopted by one of the Iroquois chiefs from the Canawagas, a tribe of the Iroquois converted by French Jesuit missionaries, as a “replacement” for the son that they had lost. He and his wife, Osennenhawe, only had

one child.

In his journal, the Rev. Ebenezer Parkman wrote, “Timothy had much recommended himself to the Indians by his superior talents, his penetration, courage, strength, and warlike spirit, for which he was much celebrated… He himself, in process of time, came to see us… They arrived here September 15 (1740). They viewed the house where Mr. Rice dwelt, and the place from which the children were captivated, of both of which he retained a clear remembrance, as he

did likewise of several elderly people then living, though he had forgotten our language. It was thirty-six years after the capture. His Excellency Governor Belcher sent for them, who accordingly waited on him at Boston.”

The Rev. Peter Whitney noted, “When the old Indian sachem Ountassogo, chief of the Canawagas, at the conference with Governor Belcher at Deerfield, made a visit to Boston, he stopped a while in Westborough; and Asher Rice saw him, and knew him…”

The horrific capture of the Rice boys, as well as their lives with the Indigenous peoples, quickly became part of Westborough’s folklore. On September 5, 1904, at the start of Westborough’s Field Day, a plaque was placed in honor of the Rice boys on West Main Street at the spot where it was believed they were captured. The plaque still stands there, today, honoring the challenges and remarkable journeys of Westborough’s early residents.

Four boys from the Rice family of Westborough who were captured by Indigenous people in 1704 were commemorated with this plaque on West Main Street in 1904. (Photo/Courtesy of the Westborough Archive in the Westborough Public Library)

Ten years after tragedy, Zschokke steps into leadership role of Find The Cause

By Evan Walsh Managing Editor

SOUTHBOROUGH – It’s been a long journey for Peter Zschokke.

Ten years after his wife, Jennifer, died of breast cancer,

the Southborough native was named the chair of the board of directors of the Find The Cause Breast Cancer Foundation, a not-for-profit organization focused on funding research on the environmental causes of breast cancer and

educating the public on prevention.

Zschokke has served as a member of the Find The Cause Breast Cancer Foundation’s Board of Directors since 2016. He took on the role of Treasurer in 2022. Zschokke

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graduated from Boston University with a degree in economics, and recently retired from National Grid, where he served as a director of regulatory strategy.

“My wife’s cancer taught me that the only good cancer is one you never get. Cancer is a very mysterious disease – it’s very adaptable, it’s very cunning, it can beat the best medicines that are available, and it always seems to succeed somehow. It’s scary,” said Zschokke. “So the goal of the organization is really prevention. What can we do to understand how chemicals we have introduced into society over the last 80 years are affecting our bodies? That’s the key driving point.”

“Peter has been a tremendous advocate for the work that we do for many years, and I look forward to working closely with him in his new role as board chair,” said Caitlyn Mosher Ellis, the executive director of Find The Cause. In his new role, Zschokke’s biggest task will be fundraising.

“It goes without saying that there’s a very human element to cancer. My sons were one and three when their mother was diagnosed … They were 13 and 15 when she passed away. They went through their whole life not knowing the person I met because she was always on a drug that had side effects. There’s a very human cost to cancer,” he said.

Peter Zschokke is now leading a local organization.

On annual farm tour, McGovern hears stories of Westborough resilience

By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter

WESTBOROUGH — U.S. Representative Jim McGovern embarked on his annual farm tour across Central Massachusetts last week, traveling from Chesterfield to West Boylston to talk with local farmers and constituents.

McGovern, along with state Rep. Kate Donaghue, stopped by Harvey’s Farm & Garden Center in Westborough on Aug. 28. This was the first time Harvey’s has been included on McGovern’s tour.

“It’s an absolute pleasure to have people who are in this field — pun intended — to help understand what challenges we have, what ways we’ve been able to grow and innovate, and take sometimes challenging situations and say how do we grow from that?” said Emily Harvey, who runs the farm with her father, Jim. Harvey, a sixth-generation farmer, took McGovern, state officials, and commu -

nity members on a tour of the farm. Along the way, Harvey detailed the farm’s evolution, its crops and planting processes, and challenges the family has faced to keep the business thriving.

“I love farms, and I have a great respect for our farmers. As we all learned today, farmers work awfully hard, and they have to be creative, they

have to be versatile. They have to diversify, depending on what’s going on with the climate and with the economy,” McGovern told the Community Advocate. “I find these tours inspirational. Every chance I get, I try to buy foods that are grown locally. We have to all do a better job of supporting our local farmers. They’re an important part of

our economy.”

McGovern was elected to the House of Representatives in 1997 and started the farm tour soon after.

“I want to make sure I know what I’m doing and what I’m talking about. And I think the best way to do that is to visit farms in-person, talk to farmers, establish relationships with them and the people who

work here, so I have first-hand knowledge of what’s going well and what’s challenging,” McGovern said. “This is like my homework, but it’s fun. It’s been great.”

Harvey’s started as a dairy farm in 1911 and now focuses on produce and plants. The barn that used to house dairy cows has since transformed into a quaint gift shop selling everything from home decor to gardening supplies.

Some local restaurants, including Gather Provisions in Northborough and Purple Pig BBQ in Marlborough, buy Harvey’s produce for their kitchens.

“For me, coming to places like this, I get to go back to Washington and brag about what I’ve seen, and talk about the incredible resilience of families like the Harveys,” he said.

McGovern also visited Berberian’s Farm on Aug. 28. In total, he went to 11 farms across the region.

By Evan Walsh Managing Editor

SHREWSBURY – The seats have been filled. Time to evaluate Shrewsbury’s government.

On June 24, the Select Board unveiled the charge for the Government Study Committee, a group that will conduct a comprehensive review of Shrewsbury’s government structure. On Aug. 26, the Select Board chose 10 representatives to serve on the committee. Twenty town residents applied, 15 of whom were Town Meeting members. The Select Board also decided which of its members would serve as the designee to the committee.

Here’s who will look into Shrewsbury’s government structure.

• Andrew Nelson

• Michael Burns

• Mark Adler

• Sandra Fryc

• Benjamin Rudolf

• Dadene Gonet

• Bridgid Malee-Rubin

• Carrick O’Brien

• Patrick Pitney

• Colleen Corbett

• Carlos Garcia (SB)

Rep. Jim McGovern gets a tour through Harvey’s Farm. (Photo/Shealagh Sullivan)

By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter

NORTHBOROUGH — The Northborough Helping Hands Association (NHHA) announced the recipients of its 2025 scholarships on Aug. 25.

Algonquin Regional High School seniors Isabelle Recchia and Sophia Garris each received $1,000. The scholarships are

funded through public donations.

“Northborough Helping Hands’ mission is to assist families in our community, and our scholarship program is one way we do that. This year, our fourmember scholarship committee was impressed by the many strong applications we received, which made the decision difficult. We are proud to support

these outstanding students as they continue their education,” NHHA member Liz Nolan said to the Community Advocate. Founded in 1920, NHHA is dedicated to helping those in need through Thanksgiving food baskets, Christmas gifts, clothing, free medical equipment loans, and emergency aid for special services, according to its website.

Making autumn vibes easy

By Evan Walsh Managing Editor

REGION – Everyone wants it to feel like fall in New England, with colorful leaves, patches of pumpkins, and collections of gourds – all on your doorstep. Autumn brings a certain warmth and coziness that people desire.

But – as everyone knows –life gets busy. Between work and family commitments, sometimes achieving that autumnal vibe can fall to the end of the list. Luckily, The Charmed Porch is here to help.

Led by Lauren and her husband Thom, The Charmed Porch helps busy families embrace autumn by creating cozy, seasonal displays that will make you smile as soon as you pull into your driveway. No need to lift pumpkins or deal with messy hay – these displays are stress- and messfree.

The Charmed Porch makes it easy to capture autumn vibes.

“We know that many people love the look and feel of a seasonal porch, but don’t always have the time to make it happen. That’s where we come in. We create all the fall charm you want, without you having to lift a finger,” said Lauren Suraci, the company’s owner – or “director of gourd gorgeousness.”

Lauren and Thom are the

type of people who enjoy displaying most outrageous Halloween decorations. Always in season, the husband-wife duo started to help others decorate their front door for autumn holidays.

One thing led to another, and they started getting requests. When they looked, nobody was doing anything similar in New England, and

so The Charmed Porch was created. Thom serves as the company’s pumpkin-lifterin-chief.

“I thought, ‘Why don’t I try to help others in the area get the same feeling?’ That’s really what I’m hoping to achieve –the feeling. It’s waking up in the morning and having that feeling of coziness that you only get this time of year. I fig-

ured I’d help others and help them get that feeling as well,” said Lauren Suraci.

The Charmed Porch offers several different autumn packages, also offering wedding and engagement set-ups, business storefront displays, real estate staging, and backdrops for photo shoots.

A 20-year veteran of the wedding industry, assisting with special ceremonies holds a special place in Lauren Suraci’s heart

“Being able to help create a sense of picture-perfectness for the bride and groom on their special day – it’s something that resonates with me. I love when the bride and groom first walk into the venue, and everything they’ve planned for months has culminated in that one moment. Being part of that is so special,” she said. Looking for more information? Visit the company’s website at https://www. thecharmedporch.com/ or email TheCharmedPorch@ gmail.com.

Lauren Suraci is determined to help people achieve fall vibes. (Photos/Courtesy)

At Armstrong Elementary, positivity rocks — literally

By Adri Pray Reporter

WESTBOROUGH — Positivity and kindness rocks. The students at Armstrong Elementary know that better than anyone.

Incoming kindergarten, first-, second-, and thirdgrade students spent time ahead of the start of the academic year decorating rocks with messages of hope and positivity. Parents and caregivers sat with their students as they wrote messages of encouragement and painted everything from flowers and rainbows to donuts and video-game characters.

“It’s important that kids know that school is not just a safe place, but also a place where everyone is going to be actively kind,” said Principal Aidan McCann. “If we can instill that into our school culture, students will pass that kindness on. If they live that at Armstrong, then our students are in a position

where they can learn just about anything at all.”

Ahead of the craft, McCann discussed the importance of kindness and positively with the students and read aloud a story that taught students the impact such rock gardens can have

on a community.

Second-grade teacher Michelle Casciano spearheaded applying for a grant that made the activity possible. She also worked with Home Depot to secure the craft materials (including the rocks) and installed the positivity

FONDUE-TASTIC AFTERNOON

garden on West Street.

Those who pass by the Kindness Garden are encouraged to “take one for inspiration or leave one for motivation” as necessary.

“We want everyone to feel like they can participate,” Casciano said.

A new garden has sprung up on West Street. (Photos/Adri Pray)

Marcia Roman named 2025 Applefest Grand Marshal: ‘An undeniable choice’

Roman | from page 1

By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter

NORTHBOROUGH — Some would say Northborough isn’t Northborough without Marcia Roman.

But Roman, who was named this year’s Applefest Grand Marshal, doesn’t do it for the accolades.

For her, giving back is just what feels right. As the vice president of Northborough Helping Hands Association (NHHA) and an active member of the Northboro Junior Woman’s Club (NJWC), Roman has helped give back to her local community and beyond.

When Roman spoke with the Community Advocate, she emphasized that while the award was humbling, the work was never just her own.

“There are a lot of special people in the town of Northborough who could easily deserve this kind of recognition,” she said.

The NJWC has over 50 members that are dedicated to “ser-

vice, friendship, and empowering others through hands-on projects and community support,” according to its website. The chapter is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

NHHA, formerly known as the Northborough District Nurse Association, was founded over 100 years ago. Today, the organization is dedicated to helping those in need through Thanksgiving food baskets, Christmas gifts, clothing, free medical equipment loans, and emergency aid for special services, according to its website.

Flying under the radar is what Roman prefers. Doing the work quietly, without need for recognition, has made her a favorite in Northborough.

“I feel like I’m part of the organizations, and the organizations are part of me,” Roman said.

Getting to carry on these missions and work with people across town is at the heart of Roman’s work. She can’t help but “jump in with both feet,” she said. Roman has been a

member of the NJWC since 1984, and publishes the organization’s monthly newsletter.

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Roman organized the NHHA “Making Spirits Bright” campaign. Though she’s taken a step back, she’s still involved with that program, which provides Thanksgiving meal “fixings,” grocery and retail gift cards for December holidays, and winter coats for those in need. She has been involved in the organization for 40 years.

The NHHA also provides backpacks and school supplies for students in need, raises money for scholarships, and provides one-time assistance to Northborough residents for emergency needs.

As a parishioner at St. Bernadette’s Parish, she has been “instrumental” in organizing the church’s annual Christmas Giving Tree, members of the NJWC wrote in a letter nominating Roman for Grand Marshal.

“Marcia lives her life putting others first, whether it be her

family, grandchildren, NJWC friends, or Northborough families in need. Through it all, she remains a steadfast source of positivity and support for everyone,” the letter states.

Whether it’s her famous Pizelles or helping out those in need, Roman, who has lived in town for 54 years, embodies Northborough. The NJWC called her the town’s “unsung hero.”

“We are beyond grateful for all that she does, her unwaver-

“ I feel like I’m part of the organizations, and the organizations are part of me.”

— Marcia Roman

ing dedication and generous spirit make her an undeniable choice, and we cannot think of a more deserving recipient for the honor of Applefest Grand Marshal,” the letter continued. Donations to the NHHA can be made online or by mail at P.O. Box 383. Donations to NJWC can be made online or by mail at P.O. Box 81. Applefest will take place Sept. 18 to 21. Stay tuned to Community Advocate for more information about that event.

Local senior rock group featured on Chronicle

By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter

NORTHBOROUGH — A local music group turned up the volume on Aug. 28 with a feature on WCVB Channel 5’s “Chronicle.”

Rocking the Boroughs (RTB) is the latest “story of New England” that the Chronicle team is focusing on. RTB is a singing group made up of seniors across the MetroWest area. Founded in 2023 by Manoj Padki, the group gathers weekly in the Northborough Senior Center to sing rock ‘n’ roll.

“What we’re all about is celebrating the potential of aging, and because we’re so lively, I think we provide inspiration to others who are also in this stage of life,” said Sally Wilson, RTB’s managing director. “We would like to prove that age is just a number.”

At the beginning, the group had about 15 members. Now, it has 45 participants.

As the group looks to the future, Wilson said they want to become a “regional phe -

nomenon.”

“We want people to come to our performances from all over, because our performances are just full of joy,” Wilson said. “The whole crowd gets into it, sings along, dances in the aisles, and the energy you feel in the performance hall is incredible.”

Wilson said the Chronicle segment was some members’ first time on the small screen. However, it’s not themselves that they were most excited to see.

“It’s not really about themselves. I think they were excited for the group, because we have built up a really great sense of community,” Wilson said. “I think their excitement about being on TV is the excitement about the growth of the group and how successful the group has been.”

RTB performs throughout the year in the MetroWest region. Its next show is on Oct. 25 and 26 at 3 p.m. at Saint John’s High School.

Chronicle airs weeknights at 7:30 p.m. on WCVB Channel 5.

Learn more about RTB at https://tinyurl.com/ojrnv.

Your Money, Your Independence

Navigating College Admissions with Financial Planning

The college admissions process can feel overwhelming for both students and parents.

From understanding early application options to maximizing financial aid and planning for expenses, every decision matters. Let’s break down key aspects to help families make confident, informed choices.

Early Action vs. Early Decision

These two common early application paths are typically due around November 1, but they work very differently:

Early Action (EA): Students apply earlier and receive admissions decisions sooner, without any binding commitment. EA applicants can apply to multiple schools and compare offers before deciding.

Early Decision (ED): A binding commitment—if admitted, students must attend. ED can improve acceptance odds because schools see these applicants as highly motivated. However, families must request merit aid at the time of application; later financial aid concerns can jeopardize an acceptance.

Maximizing Merit-Based Aid

Merit aid is awarded for academic, athletic, or artistic achievements rather than financial need. To improve chances:

Look Beyond Trophy Schools. Highly competitive universities offer little merit aid because of their abundant applicant pools. Instead, consider niche colleges or specialized programs where your student’s strengths stand out.

Build Recruiter Relationships. Merit decisions often hinge on personal connections. Encourage students to reach out to local recruiters, share interests, and stay in touch. These relationships can lead to introductions with faculty and admissions staff. When students apply, they should express enthusiasm directly—making their case for both admission and merit support.

Let Students Lead. Recruiters prefer authentic student voices. Parents should support, but avoid writing, editing, or speaking on behalf of the student.

Making the Most of 529 Plans

A 529 plan offers tax-free growth and withdrawals when used for qualified education expenses. To use funds effectively:

must cover costs like tuition, fees, books, and room and board. Non-qualified expenses can trigger taxes and penalties.

Understanding Loan Options

Loans can help bridge financial gaps, but terms vary widely.

Federal Student Loans: Typically lower interest rates and flexible repayment terms. Includes Direct Subsidized Loans (interest covered while in school) and Direct Unsubsidized Loans (interest accrues immediately).

Parent PLUS Loans: Federal loans taken by parents. They carry fixed interest rates and repayment flexibility, but parents assume the debt burden.

Private Loans: Offered by banks and lenders. Usually higher interest rates and fewer protections, making them a last resort.

Policy Update: Student Loan Reform

For the first time in years, Congress—not just executive orders—has taken the lead on student loan reform.

The One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) changes the “blank-check” borrowing effect:

Parent PLUS Loans: Borrowing is now capped at $20,000 per year and $65,000 total for parents of undergraduates.

Graduate Loans: Master’s/general graduate programs are now $20,500 annually and $100,000 lifetime, while professional programs (e.g., law, medicine) are $50,000 per year and $200,000 total.

Undergraduate Loans: Existing limits remain unchanged at $12,500 annually and $57,500 aggregate.

By placing borrowing caps, OBBB shifts responsibility back to universities to manage affordability, rather than allowing unlimited borrowing. It’s a step toward addressing the root cause of rising education costs—not just the symptoms.

Final Thoughts

Families who plan ahead—by understanding application strategies, targeting schools wisely, and exploring funding options—set themselves up for both financial stability and a smoother transition into college life. For tailored guidance, talk to your Certified Financial Planner.

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.

Adjust Investments Over Time: As college approaches, consider shifting a portion of funds into more stable investments—such as bonds or money markets—to reduce volatility.

Stick to Qualified Expenses: Withdrawals

Glenn Brown lives in MetroWest and is owner of PlanDynamic, LLC, www.PlanDynamic.com. He is a fee-only Certified Financial Planner™ helping motivated people take control of their planning and investing, so they can balance kids, aging parents and financial independence.

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‘The stars aligned’: Shrewsbury canine sets dock-diving record

By Evan Walsh Managing Editor

SHREWSBURY – Nikki Wolf knew her dog, Viper, was quite an athlete.

But it wasn’t until after his first jump – a phenomenal 31-foot-7-inch leap – at Osborne’s Farm & Garden Center (N.H.) that she realized just how dominant her four-legged friend actually was. Just before Viper’s second jump, Wolf chatted with her mother.

“Before the second or third jump in, when I was waiting in line, my mom used her hands to point out the distance between Viper’s last jump and the previous world record. It was really nothing in perspective when you look at it. I knew we could do this,” said Wolf.

On his next jump, Viper soared an incredible 33 feet, 2 inches, topping the previous DockDogs world record of 32 feet, 10 inches. According to Wolf, Viper’s record-breaking leap ranks among the best

moments in both of their lives.

“I was extremely proud. He’s my pride and joy,” said Wolf.

Dock diving is a canine sport where a dog runs down a 40-foot dock and, after their owner throws a toy – or “bumper” – in front of them, leaps into a 40-foot pool. Jumps are measured based on where the base of the dog’s tail enters the water.

Viper — a one-and-a-halfyear-old Belgian Malinois and Whippet mix – was bred by Misbehaven Sport Dogs. From the start, Viper was expected to be athletic, and Wolf wasted no time getting him into dock diving. His slender, aerodynamic build makes him the perfect competitor in the sport – his full name is Misbehaven’s “Danger Noodle.”

This newly crowned re -

cord-holder trains often and stays in remarkable shape.

“I do fitness and conditioning at home. We do three-mile walks almost every single day. I try to keep this guy as active as I possibly can, as well as keeping him physically conditioned,” said Wolf, who also practices her throwing to give Viper the perfect target.

Viper also competes in Fly Ball, another canine sport

Still less than two years old – and practically a rookie – Viper has hardly entered his prime. Wolf hopes to keep training and potentially make more history.

“Whether the dog jumps two feet or the full length of the pool, I still think that’s an amazing feat. But I really want to reach for the stars with this kiddo and make some waves,” she said.

Viper is flying high after his DockDogs record. (Photos / Courtesy of Nikki Wolf)

Elsie Kaye moves from Westborough to Northborough

By Adri Pray Reporter

NORTHBOROUGH — Eight years after Elsie Kaye’s Westborough storefront opened, the metalsmith behind the brand has shuttered the original location in favor of a larger, more visible space in a Northborough neighborhood.

When Westborough resident Holly Kenny was looking for a place where she could house her artisan glass jewelry, it was important to her to maintain a strong connection with her hometown while balancing her desire to grow as an artist and business-owner. She had owned and operated Elsie Kaye out of her basement for years before finding a property in Westborough that met all of her needs.

“Over the past couple of years, I just kept thinking ‘I feel like it can be so much more,’” she said. “When people find it, they love it. It’s just getting out there.”

As great as her first space in Westborough was, it had its faults, Kenny said. Some customers had difficulty finding the shop even after many years, and as she continued to hone her craft, she knew she needed to expand to a bigger location to accommodate her inventory. After a yearslong search, she settled on a Northborough storefront at 290 West

“ It’s heartwarming because people really want to support small businesses and small makers.

— Holly Kenny

Main Street.

“I feel like [the reception has] been very positive, which made me really happy,” she said. “It’s heartwarming because people really want to support small businesses and small makers.”

Elsie Kaye began after Kenny started taking glass bead making classes in Worcester shortly after her son was born.

Her passion for handmade goods grew over time — her husband built her a workbench so she could make pieces for local markets, and soon, she was entering herself into juried art shows and craft fairs. She eventually opened her own storefront.

Glimpses of Kenny’s personal life adorn Elsie Kaye’s aesthetic. Kenny, who previously worked in a lab and has a background in health policy research, credits her artist parents as her inspiration for opening the original boutique, and plans to hang some of their artwork on the walls. The shop, phonetically named after her daughter’s initials, L. C. K., stocks both Kenny’s artistry and the works of dozens of local artists from around the country.

The Northborough location features Kenny’s self-described “eclectic style” — combinations of shades of blues, greens, and silvers swirled together in necklaces, bracelets, and kitchenware — and the coastal

styles of multiple local artists who specialize in clothing, bags, trinkets, and more. Everything found at Elsie Kaye has been meticulously curated and sourced by Kenny, who drives across the state each week looking for art that fits among her own.

What makes Kenny especially excited about the Northborough spot is the space she has to teach aspiring and seasoned artists about glassworking. For years, even when Elsie Kaye operated out of her Westborough home, Kenny taught interested artists various techniques. Now, the business owner has outfitted the store’s backroom with multiple torches and a much larger workbench so those looking to learn the art form can schedule a time with her to sit down and create.

“Anybody can learn. It’s a very accessible art,” she said. “I think people are intimidated by it because of the fire, but it’s all about control and patience and practice.”

Holly Kenny, the creator of Elsie Kaye, sits in the store’s new Northborough home. (Photo/Adri Pray)

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

Marlborough PD locates nearly 100 grams of cocaine on man who said he was ‘high on life’

By Evan Walsh Managing Editor

MARLBOROUGH – A man told police he was “high on life,” but police allege he was high on something else. The man faces cocaine trafficking charges after an incident at a Marlborough hotel.

At about 9:30 p.m. on Aug. 18, two Marlborough Police Department officers

were dispatched to Extended Stay of America, a hotel on the west side of Marlborough, after a disturbance call. It was reported that a man, identified as Scott Martin, got “in the face” of another guest.

Upon arrival, there was no active disturbance. When police went to the second floor to speak to Martin, they allegedly “immediately” heard him screaming while punching walls and doors. Officers then reportedly saw Martin, shirtless, continuing to yell while “bouncing around the hallway” and excessively sweating. According to reports, Martin told the officers he locked himself out of his room. He “couldn’t stand

still for more than three seconds,” officers said.

Officers then allegedly located a plastic bag with a crystal-like substance on the floor, later identified as crack cocaine. Martin reportedly claimed it wasn’t his, but a couple of feet away from the bag was a wallet with a health insurance card with Martin’s name on it. Martin continued to deny responsibility, according to police documents.

When police told Martin his behavior was radical and he appeared to be under the influence of drugs, Martin reportedly replied he was simply “high on life.”

An ambulance was called for an evaluation. Medics attempted to speak to Martin,

but according to documents, he couldn’t sit still for long enough to be evaluated, continuing to “bounce,” slide around, yell, and laugh in a “wild fashion.”

Martin was taken to Marlborough Hospital, where a larger bag of a rock-like substance allegedly fell out of his pocket. The nurse gave Martin two sedative shots, which made him fall asleep. In all, police reportedly found 97.4 grams of crack cocaine on Martin. There was additional residue on a $5 bill, according to reports.

Martin faces charges for cocaine trafficking and disturbing the peace. He was arraigned on Aug. 19 and spent that night in jail.

WESTBOROUGH — At approximately 7:15 p.m. on Aug. 31, Mass. State Police troopers assigned to the Millbury Barracks received a report of a road rage incident on the Mass. Pike (Interstate 90). The reporting party indicated that another vehicle shot at them, resulting in a visible bullet hole.

After the shooter fled, the victim exited the interstate into the Westborough Service Plaza, where troopers met them and confirmed they did not need medical attention.

Troopers secured the damaged vehicle as evidence for the State Police Crime Scene Services Section and the Ballistics Unit to conduct further analysis as part of the ongoing investigation.

Anyone with information regarding this incident should contact the Millbury Barracks at 508-929-3232.

The Massachusetts State Police would like to remind the public about the dangers of road rage. The police urge drivers to show respect to each other and avoid aggressive behaviors that pose a danger to everyone on the road.

LEGAL NOTICES

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

SHREWSBURY

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The Shrewsbury Community Preservation Committee will hold a public hearing on September 8th, 2025 at 7:00 PM at the Shrewsbury Police Department, Training Room, 106 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.

The purpose of this public forum is to receive community input on the following proposed projects prior to their recommendation for the 2025 Fall Town Meeting.

Elizabeth Gardens Expansion - Topographical Survey: The project seeks to conduct a topographic survey of existing conditions of land near Elizabeth Gardens to support potential development of approximately ten (10) duplex units as shown on provided concept plans. This survey will include locating all existing utilities, including sewer locations and elevations, water lines, drainage structures, and electric utilities. The project will also include field testing for stormwater and a traffic study.

Please see the Community Preservation Committee webpage at www.shrewsburyma.gov/cpc or email planning@ shrewsburyma.gov to learn more.

THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION – HIGHWAY DIVISION

NOTICE OF A VIRTUAL PUBLIC INFORMATIONAL MEETING

Project Description: Shrewsbury –Bridge Replacement, Br# S-14-009 (B74), Centech Boulevard over Pratts Pond Inlet

Project File No. 613299

A Virtual Public Informational Meeting will be hosted on the MassDOT website below to present the design for the proposed project in Shrewsbury, MA.

WHEN: 6:00pm, Tuesday, September 16, 2025

PURPOSE: The purpose of this meeting is to provide the public with the opportunity to become fully acquainted with the proposed project. All views and comments submitted in response to the meeting will be reviewed and considered to the maximum extent possible.

PROPOSAL: This project will consist of a full bridge replacement at the Centech Boulevard bridge over the Pratts Pond Inlet in the Town of Shrewsbury. Bicycle and pedestrian accommodations will be provided in accordance with applicable design guides.

This meeting is accessible to people with disabilities. MassDOT provides reasonable accommodations and/or language assistance free of charge upon request (e.g interpreters in American Sign Language and languages other than English, live captioning, videos, assistive listening devices and alternate material formats), as available. For accommodation or language assistance, please contact MassDOT’s Chief Diversity and Civil Rights Officer by phone (857-368-8580), TTD/TTY at (857) 266-0603, fax (857) 368-0602 or by email (MassDOT.CivilRights@dot.state. ma.us). Requests should be made as soon as possible and prior to the meeting, and for more difficult to arrange services including sign-language, CART or language translation or interpretation, requests should be made at least ten business days before the meeting.

This meeting will be hosted, or a cancellation announcement posted, on the internet at https://www.mass.gov/orgs/ highway-division/events.

JONATHAN GULLIVER HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATOR

CARRIE E. LAVALLEE, P.E. CHIEF ENGINEER

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY INVITATION FOR BIDS FOR PURCHASE OF LIQUID DE-ICER AND CALCIUM CHLORIDE FLAKE

The Town of Shrewsbury invites sealed bids for the supplying of LIQUID DE-ICER and CALCIUM CHLORIDE FLAKE for the Towns of Blackstone, Boylston, Clinton, Douglas, Grafton, Lancaster, Lunenburg, Millbury, Millville, Northborough, Northbridge, Princeton, Shrewsbury, Stow, Sturbridge, Sutton, Upton, Westborough and West Boylston. Shrewsbury is acting as the lead jurisdiction for this collective procurement pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 7, Section 22B.

The awarded contract shall be for the term beginning September 30, 2025 and ending June 30, 2026.

All contractors must submit bids in conformance with this Invitation for Bids and the “Information for Bidders, Requirements and Specifications” which shall be available online at https://shrewsburyma.gov/ bids and also in the Town Manager’s Office at 100 Maple Avenue in Shrewsbury (phone: 508-841-8508). Town Offices are open Mon, Wed, Thu 8:00 AM-4:30 PM; Tue 8:00 AM-6:30 PM; and Fri 8:00 AM-12:00 PM.

Bids will be received in the Town Manager’s Office at 100 Maple Avenue in Shrewsbury, MA until 10:00 AM on September 24, 2025, at which time they will be opened publicly and read aloud.

A bid deposit in the amount of five percent (5%) of the total bid shall accompany the Bid and be made payable to the Town of Shrewsbury.

Bids must be sealed and marked “LIQUID DE-ICER and CALCIUM CHLORIDE FLAKE” with the bidder’s name and address clearly noted.

This Invitation for Bids shall be governed by the requirements of MGL Chapter 30B.

The Town reserves the right to waive any minor informalities in the bids and to reject any and all bids if it shall be deemed in the best interests of the Town to do so.

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY

Kevin J. Mizikar

Town Manager

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY INVITATION FOR BIDS FOR PURCHASE OF ROCK SALT

TThe Town of Shrewsbury invites sealed bids for the supplying of ROCK SALT requirements for the Towns of Blackstone, Boylston, Clinton, Douglas, Grafton, Lancaster, Lunenburg, Millbury, Millville, Northborough, Northbridge, Princeton, Shrewsbury, Stow, Sturbridge, Sutton, Upton, Westborough and West Boylston. Shrewsbury is acting as the lead jurisdiction for this collective procurement pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 7, Section 22B.

The awarded contract shall be for the term beginning September 30, 2025 and ending June 30, 2026.

All contractors must submit bids in conformance with this Invitation for Bids and the “Information for Bidders, Requirements and Specifications” which shall be available online at https://shrewsburyma.gov/ bids and also in the Town Manager’s Office at 100 Maple Avenue in Shrewsbury (phone: 508-841-8508). Town Offices are open Mon, Wed, Thu 8:00 AM-4:30 PM; Tue 8:00 AM-6:30 PM; and Fri 8:00 AM-12:00 PM.

Bids will be received in the Town Manager’s Office at 100 Maple Avenue in Shrewsbury, MA until 10:00 AM on September 24, 2025, at which time they will be opened publicly and read aloud.

A bid deposit in the amount of five percent (5%) of the total bid shall accompany the Bid and be made payable to the Town of Shrewsbury.

Bids must be sealed and marked “ROCK SALT” with the bidder’s name and address clearly noted.

This Invitation for Bids shall be governed by the requirements of MGL Chapter 30B. The Town reserves the right to waive any minor informalities in the bids and to reject any and all bids if it shall be deemed in the best interests of the Town to do so.

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY

Kevin J. Mizikar

Town Manager

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that Ujwal Raval, on behalf of 510 Boston Turnpike, LLC, d/b/a Jay Bhavani Shrewsbury, 504-512 Boston Turnpike, has applied to the Select Board for a Common Victualler License. The proposed hours of operation are Sunday through Thursday, 8:00 AM to 12:00 AM, and Friday to Saturday, 8:00 AM to 2:00 AM.

A public hearing on this application will be held on Tuesday, September 23, 2025 at 7:05 PM, Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, Selectmen’s Meeting Room, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury.

Theresa H. Flynn

Chair

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40

Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Kevin Mizikar, on behalf of the Town of Shrewsbury, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, has filed a Notice of Intent for the replacement of approximately 210 linear feet of sidewalk at Greylock Park, or 63-78 Oregon Avenue.

A public hearing will be held for the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, September 16, 2025, in the Selectboard Room, Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury 01545.

SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION

Kenneth Polito, Chair

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY

NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40

Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Anne Zettek-Sumner, 99 North Quinsigamond Avenue, Shrewsbury, has filed a Request for Determination of Applicability for the reconstruction of a retaining wall at 99 North Quinsigamond Avenue.

A public hearing will be held for the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, September 16, 2025, in the Selectboard Room, Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury 01545.

SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION

Kenneth Polito, Chair

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40

Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Rajesh Velagapudi, 355 Grafton Street, Shrewsbury, has filed a Notice of Intent for the construction of a home addition and deck at 355 Grafton Street.

A public hearing will be held for the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening,

September 16, 2025, in the Selectboard Room, Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury 01545.

SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION

Kenneth Polito, Chair

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40

Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Peter Capalbo, 458 Walnut Street, Shrewsbury, has filed a Request for Determination of Applicability for the construction of an in ground pool and retaining wall at 458 Walnut Street.

A public hearing will be held for the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, September 16, 2025, in the Selectboard Room, Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury 01545.

SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION

Kenneth Polito, Chair

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40

Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Peter Forte, on behalf of Goventure Capital Group, LLC, 1 Mercantile Street, Suite 630, Worcester, 01608, has filed an Abbreviated Notice of Resource Area Delineation for the delineation of bordering vegetated wetland, bank, pond, intermittent stream and isolated vegetated wetland at 525 Hartford Turnpike.

A public hearing will be held for the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, September 16, 2025, in the Selectboard Room, Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury 01545.

SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION

Kenneth Polito, Chair

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40

Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Bobby Malhotra, on behalf of B&M Affordable Construction LLC, 46 Deerfield Road, Shrewsbury, has filed a Notice of Intent for the demolition of an existing single-family home and the construction two singlefamily homes within Riverfront Area at 33 & 35 Redland Street.

A public hearing will be held for the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, September 16, 2025, in the Selectboard Room, Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury 01545.

SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION

Kenneth Polito, Chair

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40

Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Michael Rego, on behalf of Elm Development, LLC, PO Box 423, Hudson, 01749, has filed a Notice of Intent for the construction of a single family home and associated driveway, utility connections and stormwater infrastructure at 457 Walnut Street.

A public hearing will be held for the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, September 16, 2025, in the Selectboard Room, Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury 01545.

SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION

Kenneth Polito, Chair

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40

Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Rick Gill, on behalf of the Shrewsbury Trails Committee, Shrewsbury, has filed a Request for Determination of Applicability for the installation of temporary wooden bridges at Lake Street Park or 430 Lake Street.

A public hearing will be held for the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, September 16, 2025, in the Selectboard Room, Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury 01545.

SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION

Kenneth Polito, Chair

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40

Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Mark Lambert, 41 Campground Road, West Boylston, 01583, has filed a Request for Determination of Applicability for the removal of 10 trees in yard and wetland area at 216 North Street.

A public hearing will be held for the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, September 16, 2025, in the Selectboard Room, Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury 01545.

SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION

Kenneth Polito, Chair

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40

Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Jane Persico, 9 Stone Meadow Farm Drive, Shrewsbury, has filed a Request for Determination of Applicability for the removal of 3 trees at 9 Stone Meadow Farm Drive.

A public hearing will be held for the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, September 16, 2025, in the Selectboard Room, Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury 01545.

SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION

Kenneth Polito, Chair

MARLBOROUGH

The Marlborough Community Development Authority (MCDA), the Awarding Authority, invites sealed bids from Contractors for the Housing Type: Elderly 667-01 Development for the Marlborough Housing Authority in Marlborough Massachusetts, in accordance with the documents prepared by MEANDER STUDIO. The Project consists of: exterior door and hardware replacement at all apartment buildings. The work is estimated to cost $240,879.53 including all add alternates. Bids are subject to M.G.L. c.149 §44A-J & to minimum wage rates as required by M.G.L. c.149 §§26 to 27H inclusive. General bidders must be certified by the Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance (DCAMM) in the category of General Building Construction. General Bids will be received until September 12th at 2:00PM and publicly opened, forthwith.

COMMUNITY CLASSIFIED

COMMUNITY CLASSIFIED

SUBTRADES: NONE. All Bids should be delivered to and received no later than the date & time specified above. General bids and sub-bids shall be accompanied by a bid deposit that is not less than five (5%) of the greatest possible bid amount (considering all alternates), and made payable to the Marlborough, MA Housing Authority. Bid Forms and Contract Documents will be available electronically or for purchase at cost: Contract documents are available for download on Bid Docs Bidders requesting Contract Documents to be mailed to them shall include a separate check for $ 150 per set, payable to the Awarding Authority, to cover mail handling costs. General bidders must agree to contract with minority and women business enterprises as certified by the Supplier Diversity Office (SDO), formerly known as SOMWBA. The combined participation benchmark reserved for such enterprises shall not be less than 13% of the final contract price including accepted alternates. Request for waivers must be sent to EOHLC (david.mcclave@mass. gov) 5 calendar days prior to the General Bid date. NO WAIVERS WILL BE GRANTED AFTER THE GENERAL BIDS ARE OPENED. PRE-BID CONFERENCE / SITE VISIT: Date and Time: between 10 A.M. and 11 A.M. on September 3rd. Address: 397 Bolton Street, Marlborough MA, 01752 Instructions: N/A

SITE VISIT BY APPOINTMENT: For an appointment contact Chad Carter; ccarter@ marlborough-ma.gov

NORTHBOROUGH

In accordance with MGL Ch. 40A Sec. 5, the Northborough Planning Board will hold a public hearing on September 16, 2025 at 6:00pm for the purpose of seeking public opinion on a proposed amendment to the Zoning Map that will rezone that portion of the Residential C District located at 167 Main Street, Assessors’ Map 53 Parcel 73, and 0 Main Street, Assessor’s Map 53 Parcel 155, to Business East (BE) District. The complete text of the proposed amendment and the proposed Zoning Map are available on the Planning Department webpage at https://www.town.northborough.ma.us/ planning-department.

Pursuant to Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2025, An Act Relative to Extending Certain COVID-19 Measures Adopted During the State of Emergency, signed into law on March 28, 2025, this meeting will be conducted via remote participation. To participate in the public comment portion of this public hearing, please click this URL to join: https://town-northborough-ma-us.zoom.

Town of Westborough seeks applications from energetic, team-oriented individuals for the full-time position of Assistant Town Engineer.

Essential functions of the position include formal review of project plans and specifications, preparation of documents for competitive bidding, and development of engineering estimates associated with roadway improvements, water and sewer system design and maintenance, and stormwater management. The desired candidate will be a problem solver who offers innovative ideas and is an effective communicator. Applicants shall possess a Bachelor’s degree in engineering and at least five (5) years of work experience in the design of and/or construction of public works projects. Registration as a Massachusetts Professional Engineer or Massachusetts Professional Land Surveyor required. Must have a valid driver’s license. The salary range for the position is $86,292 - $112,375 per year DOQ. To apply, send resume and cover letter in a single PDF via email, with subject line: Assistant Town Engineer Applicant to: jobs@westboroughma.gov. The position will remain open until filled. This posting is not meant to be inclusive of all job duties or qualification requirements; please visit our Human Resources website for a complete job description. Position remains open until filled. The Town of Westborough is an equal opportunity employer that recruits and hires qualified candidates without regard to race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status. The Town of Westborough seeks a workforce that reflects the diversity of its community, and all are encouraged to apply.

TOWN OF WESTBOROUGH MASSACHUSETTS ASSISTANT TOWN MANAGER TOWN HALL - 34 WEST MAIN STREET Kimberly Foster WESTBOROUGH, MA 01581-1998 TEL: (508) 366-3030 FAX: (508) 366-3099 ASSISTANT TOWN ENGINEER Westborough Department of Public Works Engineering Division

us/j/83048072244 Passcode: 103967 or join by phone: 1 646 876 9923 Webinar ID: 830 4807 2244 Passcode: 103967. Live Stream link YouTube: https://www. youtube.com/@northboroughcable3899/ streams.

Amy Poretsky, Chairperson August 29, 2025 and September 5, 2025

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE NORTHBOROUGH ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

SUPPLY CHAIN ANALYST II

Marlborough, MA

May require to travel/telecommute. Support both strategic & tactical spectrum of the supply chain decision matrix. Support monthly Sales, Inventory & Operations Planning (SI&OP) processes. Contact: Susan Cardinal Boston Scientific Corporation, GlobalTalentAcq@bsci.com. Please include reference H4872-00985. (EOE).

Southborough Department

ASSISTANT TRANSFER STATION OPERATOR

The Town of Southborough seeks a full-time Assistant Transfer Station Operator for the Department of Public Works. Schedule is Wednesday–Saturday, 8 AM to 6 PM. Duties include operating equipment, maintaining the site, and assisting residents at the Recycling and Transfer Station.

Preferred: CDL Class A w/ Air Brakes and Massachusetts Hoisting License (HE-2B); and several years of public works or equipment operation experience.

Required: high school diploma, passing drug test and DOT physical. Pay: $25.38–$30.63 per hour, per AFSCME Grade 2. Applications and full job descriptions are available at https://tinyurl.com/southboroughjobs and at the DPW Office. Applications will be accepted at the Southborough DPW office, 147 Cordaville Road, Southborough, MA 01772, Monday through Friday from 8:00am–4:00pm or by e-mail to dpwoffice@southboroughma.com. Position open until filled.

The Town of Southborough is an equal opportunity employer.

via audio: +1 646 876 9923 Webinar ID: 815 9795 7513 Passcode: 035152

Live Stream link YouTube: https://www. youtube.com/channel/UCRdBrw3HeEAMB_KFKasrgXA

from Page 23 Continue

Southborough, MA 01772-1802, on or before 3:00 PM, September 24th, 2025, at which time all bids shall be opened publicly.

This application is on file in the Planning Office and can viewed online at: https://www. town.northborough.ma.us/zoning-boardappeals/pages/currently-under-review-zba Paul Tagliaferri, Chairman September 5, 2025 and September 12, 2025

In accordance with the provisions of MGL Chapter 40A, Section 9, the Northborough Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at 7pm, in Conference Room B, 1st floor of Town Hall, 63 Main Street, Northborough, to consider the petition submitted by Paul E. Ruggieri for a variance, pursuant to Zoning Bylaw Section 7-08-030, for the construction of an addition within the front yard setback of an existing single-family home on the property located at 29 Rice Avenue, Map 45, Parcel 124 in the Residential C Zoning District and Groundwater Protection Overlay District Area 3. This meeting will also be conducted via Zoom. To participate in the public comment portion of this meeting from a PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone, or Android device, please click this URL to join: https://town-northborough-ma-us.zoom. us/j/81597957513 Passcode: 035152 To join

SOUTHBOROUGH

NOTICE TO BIDDERS RRFB INSTALLATION TOWN OF SOUTHBOROUGH MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS

Sealed bids will be received by the Town of Southborough Department of Public Works for construction of pedestrian crossing improvements at four (4) locations within the Town of Southborough. The work under this Contract consists of reconstructing existing pedestrian curb ramps and sidewalk (at select locations), crosswalk and stop line pavement markings, and installation of solar-powered Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFB). Bids will be received at the Department of Public Works Office, 147 Cordaville Road,

A bidder shall submit three (3) copies of its bid in a sealed envelope, clearly marked on its face with the bidder’s name and address and the bid title: “RRFB Installation”.

Specifications and bid forms may only be obtained by registering online at the following web link: https://www.southboroughma.gov/Bids.aspx. Addenda will be issued only to parties who have registered at this web link.

MassDOT prequalification of contractors with the class of work as, Highway-Sidewalk and Curbing, for the project with an estimated value of $95,683.50, will be required.

All proposals shall be clearly marked on the outside as to the nature of the bid. The Select Board, the awarding authority, reserves the right to reject any and all bids, wholly or in part, to waive any informality, or to accept any bid or portion thereof deemed to be in the best interest of the Town.

Town Administrator Mark Purple

Superintendent of Public Works

William J. Cundiff, P.E.

of Public Works

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

Armajani-Peters, Maryam of Southborough

Benoit Sr., William of Shrewsbury

Casey, Francis of Grafton

Casillo, Josphine of Shrewsbury

Chaves, Maria Sousa of Hudson

Codd, William formerly of Northborough Foster, Patricia of Northborough

Graves, William of Westborough

Griffin, Kenneth of Marlborough

Harvey, Carol of Westborough Kelleher, Richard of Marlborough

Lewis, Jane formerly of Grafton

Magnusson Jr., Helge of Grafton

Mitchell, Susan of Shrewsbury

Potter, Robert formerly of Marlborough

Puim, Maria of Hudson Ryan, Mary of Marlborough

Silveira, Maria of Shrewsbury

Patricia M. Foster, 96

NORTHBOROUGH - Patricia

Mary Foster, 96, passed away

WESTBOROUGH

BH+A

Sealed Bids for the Westborough Multigenerational Community Center Pool

Renovation will be received at the Town Manager’s Office, 34 West Main Street, Westborough Town Hall, Westborough, MA 01581 until 2PM local time on October 2, 2025, at which time the bids will be publicly opened and read. The work consists of renovating the indoor pool, on the second floor of the new community center building including, a new pool liner, deck equipment, and improvement and replacement of filtration equipment. All Bidders are advised that their Bids must be accompanied by a copy of their Certificate of Eligibility issued by the Commissioner of the Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance (DCAMM). The Certificate of Eligibility shall be for the category of General Building Construction. An Update Statement form covering the period from the date of the Bidder’s most recently filed Contractor Qualification Statement (CQS) to the Bid date shall also be submitted with the bid. Any general bid submitted without the appropriate DCAMM Certificate of Eligibility and Update Statement shall be invalid Contract Documents will be available after 9:00 a.m. local time on September 10, 2025 by going to https:// www.bidnetdirect.com/massachusetts/ townwestborough. Bidders will need to register on BidNetDirect.com to get a free downloadable bid set. No monetary deposit is required to obtain the bid documents electronically. A non-mandatory pre-bid site visit will be held at the pool, 1500 Union Street, Westborough, MA 01581 at 10AM local time, September 17, 2025. Potential bidders will meet in the 2nd floor lobby of the Recreation Department. Bid period inquiries regarding the Work required by the Contract Documents shall be directed in writing to Thomas Scarlata, Principal Bargmann Hendrie + Archetype, Inc. (Subject Line: Westborough Multi- generational Pool Renovation) at tscarlata@bhplus.com. Oral questions will not be accepted, and oral interpretations of questions will not be given. Addenda will be issued and distributed to all plan holders registered on BidNetdirect.com. The contract documents may be examined during normal business hours from 9 a.m. to noon and from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Westbor-

peacefully at her home on Friday, August 22, 2025—the date of her 72nd wedding anniversary to her beloved husband, Charles “Charlie” A. Foster, Jr.

In addition to her husband, Patricia is survived by her four children: Charles A. Foster, III, and his wife Melissa of Milford, MA; Theresa A. Foster of Flower Mound, TX; James M. Foster and his wife Nancy of Northborough, MA; and Margaret A. Foster of Hickory Creek, TX. She also leaves behind three grandchildren, Meghan-Elizabeth Foster and her husband Jon

ough Town Manager’s office, 34 West Main Street, Westborough, MA. A payment bond and a performance bond in an amount equal to 100 percent of the total amount of the contract amount with a surety company qualified to do business in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts will be required for the faithful performance of the contract, as well as a payment bond equal to 100 percent of the total contract amount. ADVERTISEMENT FOR BID 001100 - 1 BH+A Project No. 3530 Westborough Multigenerational Community Center Pool Renovation Westborough, MA All Bids must be enclosed in a sealed envelope plainly marked: Bid for: Westborough Multigenerational Community Center Pool Renovation 34 West Main Street, Westborough Town Hall, Westborough, MA 01581 Attn: Tina Cote, Procurement Officer All bids for this project are subject to applicable public bidding laws of Massachusetts, including, but not limited to G.L. c.149, §44A through 44H. Attention is directed to the minimum wage rates to be paid as determined by the Commissioner of Labor and Workforce Development and the weekly payroll record submittal requirements un- der the provisions of Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 149, Section 26 through 27D inclusive. Selection of the contractor will be based upon bidder qualifications, including evidence of past performance on similar projects, and bid price. The contract will be awarded to the bidder deemed by the awarding authority to be the lowest responsible and eligible bidder. Award amount will be based on base bid amount and alternate amount if accepted. The bidder agrees that its bid shall be good and may not be withdrawn for a period of 30 days, Saturdays, Sundays and legal holidays excluded, after the opening of the bids. Award of the Contract is subject to a successful vote at Westborough Town Meeting on Tuesday October 21, 2025. The Town reserves the right to waive any informalities, to accept or reject, in whole or in part any or all bids, or take whatever other action may be deemed to be in the best interest of the Town. The Town is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages MBE/WBE/DBE participation in response to the bid process. Tina Cote Procurement Officer tcote@westboroughma.gov

LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF WESTBOROUGH RFQ 25-0100

Town of Westborough, led by its Fire Department, is accepting Proposals until 2 pm on September 25, 2025 at the Westborough Fire Department, 42 Milk St, Westborough MA 01581 for Owner’s Project Management Services for the renovation of the building for Regional Emergency Communications Center in Westborough, Massachusetts. This project is being Electronically Bid (E-Bid). You can register to become a bidder (free) online at www.BidNetDirect.com. For assistance, contact BidNetDirect.com at 800-835-4603. Bid Documents will be available online beginning at 9 AM on September 3, 2025 at https://www. bidnetdirect.com/massachusetts/townwestborough. All plan holders must have an active online account on www.bidnetdirect.com to acquire documents, receive project notifications, submit questions and receive addenda. It is the responsibility of prospective proposers to check www.BidNetDirect.com for new information via any addenda to this solicitation. Any addenda issued will be emailed to all plan holders registered with BidNetDirect. Questions regarding this Bid should be emailed to Tina Cote, Procurement Officer at tcote@westboroughma.gov and have the subject line “RFQ-25-0100 – Questions for OPM services”. Addenda will be posted on BidNEtDirect.com and will be distributed to all Plan holders registered on BidNEt. Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference and Site Visit is scheduled for Friday September 5th at 10am at 42 Milk Street, Westborough MA. The bidding and award of this Contract will be under the provisions of M.G.L. c. 149 sec 44 A1/2. The Town is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages MBE/WBE/ DBE participation in response to the bid process. Tina Cote Procurement Officer tcote@westboroughma.gov

LEGAL NOTICE FOR SPECIAL PERMIT HEARING

In accordance with the provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 40A, Section 9 and Sections 2.3C and 5.1C, Attachment 1 (Use Regulation Schedule) of the Town of Westborough Zoning Bylaw, the Westborough Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, September 16th, 2025 at 6:30 PM on application record no. 25-02593, requesting a Special Permit for an associated drive-up window to a 2,400 square foot coffee shop. The location of the proposed project is 210 Turnpike Road (Assessor’s Parcel ID 27-58-0), Westborough, MA, located in the Highway Business Zoning District. The owner and applicant for the filing is 6 Humphrey

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

Miller, Jonathan R. Foster, and Zachary A. Foster; two greatgrandchildren, Andrew and Lilliana Miller; a sister-in-law, Roberta McGinnis; as well as nieces and nephews.

Hays Funeral Home of Northborough assisted the family.

William A. Benoit Sr., 90

SHREWSBURY - William A. Benoit, Sr., a beloved father and grandfather, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Wednesday, August 27,

2025. He was 90 years old.

Bill leaves behind his son,

Street Realty Trust.

The public hearing will be held in the Great Hall of the Forbes Municipal Building, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA. Please see the Calendar on the Town of Westborough Homepage (posted 48 hours prior to the public hearing) for additional information. To access the application and any submitted documents, please go to our online permitting system, PermitPro (https://westborough. patriotpermitpro.com/) and search the above referenced record number. Records are also available for review in the Westborough Planning Board Office at 45 West Main St., Westborough, MA during regular business hours.

Persons unable to attend may submit comments in writing to the Westborough Planning Board in advance of the public hearing.

WESTBOROUGH PLANNING BOARD Hazel Nourse, Chair

FAMILY & PROBATE

INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE DOCKET NO. WO25P2948EA COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS THE TRIAL COURT

William Benoit, Jr., of Worcester; his daughter, Michelle Sidoti of Shrewsbury; and three grandchildren: Shaylin Nitile, Daniel Sidoti, and Devin Benoit. He was eagerly anticipating the arrival of his first great-grandchild in February 2026. Also surviving him are his sister-in-law Paula McNamara and her husband Raymond of Rhode Island, along with many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife of 59 years, Jacqueline Benoit, who passed in 2022; his parents; his brothers Romeo, Roland, Leo, and Eugene Benoit; and his sisters Evelyn Cloutier, Pauline Duso, Josephine Lussier, and Jane Beauregard.

Hays Funeral Home of Northborough assisted the family.

WORCESTER DIVISION

PROBATE AND FAMILY COURT

Estate of: Fern–Aileen Imse

Date of Death: June 23, 2025

To all persons interested in the above captioned estate by Petition of Petitioner, Peter F. Imse of Bow NH.

A will has been entered into informal probate. Peter F. Imse of Bow NH 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.

Kidnapping charges after knife-wielding man traps residents

By Evan Walsh Managing Editor

HUDSON

– A man who threatened others with a machetelike weapon faces kidnapping charges.

At approximately 5:24 a.m. on Aug. 17, Hudson officers were dispatched to an area on High Street after multiple 911 hang-up calls. According to police documents, the information officers were receiving en route to the call was “constantly evolving.”

According to officers, a male armed with a knife was threatening the occupants of an apartment building. Before entering the building, officers reportedly grabbed ballistic shields and tasers. Both of the first two officers allegedly drew their handguns as they approached a second-floor apartment.

The male, identified as Jhonathan Perreira Gomes, 19, had locked the door to the apartment, according to police documents. Because the fire escape

was “blocked with a significant amount of debris that would make an exit or entry extremely dangerous,” the door to the room was kicked in, according to police.

When police entered the property, they reportedly saw Gomes holding a 12- to 15inch, machete-style knife in his hand. According to police

documents, the “subject’s eyes were extremely wide open,” and he was standing in front of the “only possible method of escape” for the victims. Reportedly, officers repeatedly ordered the man to drop the knife, pointing their guns at him.

Gomes reportedly refused the commands, prompting police to deploy a taser. The

deployment was successful, according to reports, as the suspect dropped the weapon and fell to the ground. At that point, police arrested him.

After interviews, police speculate that Gomes may have taken an unknown drug at work. He had been acting erratically since around 9 p.m. the day before, and didn’t be-

gin his threatening behavior until about dawn, according to reports.

Gomes faces several charges, including kidnapping and assault with a dangerous weapon. He pleaded not guilty during his arraignment on Aug. 18 and was released on personal recognizance. He appeared in court for a hearing on Aug. 25.

COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

Shrewsbury sisters turn backyard chores into summer business

By Christine Williams Contributing Writer

SHREWSBURY – Talieh, 12, and her sister Kimia, 10, discovered an unexpected summer passion: weeding. And just like that, the Shear Sisters sprouted!

With Talieh preparing to enter seventh-grade at Oak Middle School, and Kimia heading into fifth-grade at Sherwood Middle School, the sisters found themselves drawn to landscaping after their mom transformed their backyard with a variety of new plants. As part of the makeover, she taught them how to properly weed the garden — a task that quickly turned from chore to choice.

“When we finished, we saw how much work we got done and realized that weeding is really fun,” Talieh said. “It’s really relaxing and relieves a lot of stress.”

First day of school in Marlborough

School is back in session in Marlborough. Email the Community Advocate with any pictures you’d like to share! (Photo/Shealagh Sullivan)

Talieh and her sister Kimia spent the summer weeding. (Photo/Courtesy)

The new skill soon turned into an opportunity. A family-friend needed someone for a weeding job, and Talieh jumped at the chance. Kimia –whose first gardening job was done in exchange for ice cream – also saw the potential.

“My mom has a billion plants in our backyard,” Kimia said. “There are a lot of tiny weeds that Talieh and I go and

pick. I thought it was fun, so I asked our neighbor if I could weed her yard too.”

Now, the sisters are exploring ways to offer their services more widely, combining their growing interest in landscaping with their entrepreneurial spirit.

Outside the garden, Talieh enjoys social studies and science, and spends her free time playing basketball, swimming, and riding her bike. Kimia, who says math is her favorite subject, is also passionate about art, swimming, and biking. Whether in the classroom or the garden, the two sisters are proving that hard work can be fun — and even a little bit rewarding.

Interested in a little landscaping help? These two wonderful young ladies are available in Shrewsbury! Contact the Shear Sisters at shearsistersandco@gmail.com.

By Evan Walsh Managing Editor

SHREWSBURY – This picnic was more than a blanket and a basket.

On July 12, the American India Foundation (AIF) hosted a summer picnic to fundraise for the Maternal and Newborn Survival Initiative (MANSI), an organization that helps provide health care resources to rural mothers and newborns in India. The event was held at the New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill.

The picnic was organized by Aanchal Karthik and Chirantan Mavinahalli, two Shrewsbury High School seniors who are also AIF youth ambassadors. The event served as an opportunity to connect the Indian community and fundraise for a good cause.

“Hosting this summer picnic allowed us to not only educate individuals, but also bring light to our work and how we have made a difference for underserved mothers and newborns in India,” said Mavinahalli. “It felt surreal to have so many influential people come and support our

The event was organized by two Shrewsbury High School seniors who are also AIF youth ambassadors. The event served as an opportunity to connect the Indian community and fundraise for a good cause.

event. ... Each person who walked through that door boosted our energy and encouraged us to make it an unforgettable afternoon for all.”

Said Karthik: “Being able to lead something this meaningful was incredibly empowering. But what made it truly meaningful was to learn that this wasn’t just an event, it was a chance to give back. To know that our work is helping mothers and newborns access the care they deserve made every hour we put in that much more rewarding.”

MANSI was designed to reduce maternal and child

mortality in inaccessible rural and impoverished areas. The group has counseled over 500,000 women on safe motherhood, birth preparedness, and access to basic health care services.

“Congratulations to the youth ambassadors for organizing this highly successful event and for their leadership

in extending AIF’s community outreach. AIF strongly believes that youth ambassadors are not just the leaders of tomorrow but are the voices of today, driving change and empowering communities from the ground up,” said Meena and Sundar Subramanyam, the co-chairs of the AIF New England Advisory Board.

— A driver was rescued by a bystander as their car was sinking into Lake Quinsigamond, according to the Shrewsbury Police Department.

At about 4:29 p.m. on Aug. 26, the Shrewsbury Police Department received a report of a vehicle that had entered the water at the Corazzini Boat

Ramp. Upon arrival, officers observed a 2021 Hyundai Palisade submerged in the water, still attached to a trailer carrying a boat.

Luckily, a bystander helped the driver evacuate before the car was completely submerged. The driver didn’t need any medical attention. The car was towed out of the water.

SHREWSBURY

By Evan Walsh Managing Editor

HUDSON – This hasn’t been the start to the season Anna Iacobucci imagined.

During a mid-season basketball game a half-year ago, Iacobucci crumpled to the hardwood floor at mid-court after landing awkwardly on her left leg. She had stepped to the side, Iacobucci recalls, and felt her knee slide out of place.

After initially receiving a diagnosis of a knee dislocation – not great, but a simple three months of physical therapy to return to the court – Iacobucci was “shocked” when a subsequent MRI revealed she had actually torn her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and meniscus, a far more significant injury that’d require more rehabilitation.

It was devastating for the Hudson High School sophomore, already a star in several sports at the time of the injury.

That fall, she had established herself on the Hawks’ soccer team, leading the Mid-WachB in scoring with 31 points (23 goals). But months removed from offseason workouts, Iacobucci’s junior campaign was already in jeopardy.

“It’s been difficult mentally, but I’m working on it,” she said.

Iacobucci is still unsure about what her soccer future holds. She could get cleared as early as mid-September, seven months after the ACL tear, but may still have limitations –both physically and mentally –from her injury. She might also recover more conservatively and aim to return for her senior season in 2026.

But one thing is certain: while the Hawks may miss Iacobucci as a player, they’ll need her as a leader. With a brace around her injured left knee, Iacobucci, cleared for practice activity, makes the 7 a.m. workouts with her teammates, doing whatever she can to help.

Whether she makes it to the pitch or not, she’ll be an important part of this team.

“She’s smart, she’s very physically talented, she’s tall, she’s strong. She can get into space quickly, and she has a knack for scoring,” Spencer Fortwengler, the head coach of the Hudson girls’ soccer program, told the Community Advocate. “But her personality in general – she’s also just a really great person.”

Leadership will be of the utmost importance for Hudson, which graduated six seniors last year, including several

impact players. With just two seniors this year – and a group of eighth-grade rookies joining the team – it’ll be a season of growth for Hudson.

That’s why it’s important leaders like Iacobucci are pres-

ent, even if not ready for action.

“We have a lot of younger girls. There’s limited upperclassmen. Just being here, showing up – all of them look up to us. We try to be role models for them. We try to show

them that you can do it, even when times get hard,” said Iacobucci.

Hudson will look to build on last year’s 13-5 campaign, which included a playoff win. Makenna McGuire, a senior, will be another impact leader, while Audrey Catatao and speedster Alessandra Burnett – “she has wheels like nobody else,” remarked Fortwengler –

will continue to compete for the Hawks.

There is no shortage of young newcomers who will have big roles. Ashlyn and Keira Faherty will take the pitch for the Hawks this season, and the team is planning to start eighth-grade goalie Maya Teber.

“It’s a growth year of trying to figure out the new fac-

es coming in. We have four eighth-graders, a new goalie. … We are going to look to solidify our talent pool for the years to come,” said Fortwengler. “And getting further in the tournament than we did last year – that’s always a goal for us.”

The Hawks hadn’t yet played an official game as of the publication of this article, but the team seems to be well-bonded already. Group activities – bagels at Main Street Bagel Factory, climbing the Clinton Dam steps as exercise – have helped the group gel early.

“In our pasta dinners and our bus rides to and from games, there’s a lot of bonding going on there. In practices and scrimmages, we’re working on being there together. We’re building something,” said McGuire.

“We’re taking younger players and bonding them with the older kids,” added Fortwengler.

And that camaraderie is what keeps the players coming back – torn ACLs and all.

Said Iacobucci, “We just need to be a sisterhood.”

Podiatrist vs. Urgent Care: where to go?

By Dr. Donald Pelto Podiatrist

WESTBOROUGH – When foot pain strikes—whether from an ingrown toenail, a sprain, or even a possible fracture—your �irst instinct might be to head to urgent care. While this can be a good option for minor injuries, cuts, or basic X-rays, urgent care providers are generalists. They can ease pain, prescribe medication, and apply temporary support, but often refer patients to a podiatrist for specialized

follow-up.

A podiatrist focuses exclusively on foot and ankle conditions. From in-of�ice procedures for ingrown toenails to advanced diagnostics, custom orthotics, and even surgery, they provide targeted solutions designed for long-term relief. Choosing a podiatrist �irst can save you time, money, and unnecessary discomfort.

Specialized Urgent Care

At Central Massachusetts Podiatry, patients get the best of both worlds: expert

podiatric care with the convenience of urgent walk-in visits, Monday through Friday, 8 am–4 pm. In case of an emergency, or if you need a follow-up visit after one, call 508-757-4003 or visit www.centralmasspodiatry.com to schedule your appointment today!

Central Massachusetts Podiatry

508-757-4003

299 Lincoln St. Suite 202, Worcester 24 Lyman St. Suite 180, Westborough www.centralmasspodiatry.com

After Super Bowl championship, Hudson

goes for another one

By Evan Walsh Managing Editor

HUDSON – Last year was perfection for Hudson football.

A perfect 13-0 record. A Thanksgiving Day win over rival Marlborough. A school record for points in a 63-28 rout of Maynard. And the cherry on top – a Division 6 Super Bowl win at Gillette Stadium, the program’s first title since 1991.

But that was last year. Now, the question has to be asked: Can the Hawks return to glory?

Hudson graduated 21 seniors last year– a class filled with impact players like Jake Attaway, Garrett Giorgio, Savion Newton-Clark, Owen Nanartowich, and many others. Now, a group of 13 seniors with big-game experience will step up to lead the team.

“I want those guys to do what they’re capable of – challenging themselves every day, looking to get better every day. They can learn from [the

graduates]. Those guys are still willing to communicate with them. They lean on their coaches when it comes to developing. Everyone who is stepping into those roles right now is confident, and they have something to prove,” said Zac Attaway, now in his third year coaching the Hudson football program.

“A big thing is the seniors, the captains, taking that leadership role, pushing the guys,” he added. “We’re not satisfied. Even though we reached the ultimate goal in the Super Bowl last year, it’s about this year. What are we going to do this year?”

Ben Jackson will star at safety for the Hawks, who also have a formidable running back duo in Treson Meuse and Toby Edie. The Chaves brothers – Dominic and Damien – are set for their senior seasons, while Roy Gao and Lorenzo Caputo will also lead the team.

Can the Division 6 Super Bowl champion defend its title?

(Photo/Evan Walsh)

Hudson girls’ soccer in action last year. (Photos/Courtesy of Ella Spuria)