Shrewsbury Pitches In has exploded in popularity in recent years – tickets sell out almost immediately. Last year, the event raised over $50,000, including hundreds of individual donations and the support of several corporate sponsors. The money stays local, helping Shrewsbury families going through a tragic situation.
Last year, that included the Dullea family. In August 2024, Kim Dullea passed away
unexpectedly after a heart attack, leaving her husband and three children behind. Money also went to Mel Fitzpatrick, a father of two who recently went through 12 rounds of chemotherapy.
There are no restrictions on how recipients spend the money. Whether it’s financing a trip, toys for children, or medical bills, Shrewsbury Pitches In tries provide whatever brings joy to a difficult situation. Beyond the card game, it’s what keeps everyone playing.
“John and I are Shrewsbury
lifers. Born, raised, and never left except for school,” said Coghlin. “For us, everyone on board is for Shrewsbury. It’s this nucleus of relationships we built in our 50 years-plus of living in Shrewsbury. We’re fortunate to be around so many like-minded people who care about each other and the community.”
He added: “The energy in the room — it’s hard to describe. The gratitude, because in most cases the families are present. These people humbly take something from a group that cares so much about help-
ing people in the community.”
The night isn’t just filled with card games. There are 50/50 raffles, auctions, and plenty of food. The competitiveness of the founders hasn’t left: Being charitable is the goal, but make no mistake, people are also there to win.
“Pitch is a really easy game. Everybody is into it. You’re guaranteed at least two games. There’s a winners’ bracket, losers’ bracket. We serve a huge dinner, we do the auctions. We’ve had newbies that learn the game that day — we try to make it
Residents get chance to walk through White Cliffs
White Cliffs | from page 1 60 years — and even purchasing it from the town — officials wanted to give residents a chance to look inside the building themselves.
“We wanted to have people come in to see the condition of the building right now, and there’s so much opportunity to bring it back to life the way it used to be,” Town Administrator Stephanie Bacon told the Community Advocate.
“We are thrilled about the amount of people that have come through these doors today,” Bacon added. Over 300 people came to look inside the mansion.
Danielle Williams works in the design field and said while the property’s beauty
can be appreciated from the street, she was excited for the chance to look inside.
“There’s amazing detail that’s still left in this place, so hopefully they can keep it, whoever takes it over, but it needs a lot of work, a lot of help. So we’re having fun exploring,” said Williams, who came with a few friends.
For some, walking through the halls brought back memories of wedding receptions, proms, and even proposals. Residents murmured about the intricate woodwork and pointed out the mansion’s unique details, from its fireplaces and statues to grand windows and chandeliers.
“If you’ve ever been to Newport, Rhode Island, it’s
just like the mansions there. The woodwork is amazing. It’s so cool to see the history and to know about the treasure that is kind of hidden away in our town here. It would be awesome to see it become something really special in the community again,” resident Victor Jacek said.
For others, like resident Zenya Molnar, it was their first time inside the building.
“I love learning about history, especially local history in Northborough. So I’m very excited about the potential renovation and wanted to get a sense of what the space looks like,” Molnar said.
Over the years, dozens of people across town have worked to preserve White
Westborough Board of Health takes a look at cigar regulations
are often looking for finer cigars that come at a premium — $25 being cited as a price. A box of 20 from a manufacturer can run about $500, and Maloney argued that if they could only sell whole boxes, customers would go to neighboring towns or order online.
Cheryl Sbarra, an original author of the proposed changes and the executive director of the Massachusetts Association of Health Boards, explained where she thought the discrepancy originated. According to Sbarra, there was confusion about what draft provisions became regulations.
Sbarra also emphasized that the language was intended to stop the sales of cheap, sweet cigars that kids often use: “This was not meant for high-end cigars. The intent was to protect youth,” she said.
Health Board member Nathan Walsh, PhD, said “as soon as a problem was noticed, we wanted to address it.” In remarks at the top of the meeting, he said the issue was more one of miscommunication rather than heavyhanded enforcement.
Health Board Chairman Alan Ehrlich, MD, said the board’s concern is best prac -
tices — “that means how we keep tobacco out of the hands of young people.” Board members said they are not “trying to create a dry town” when it comes to tobacco, but are doing what they can to protect young people.
Maloney told the Community Advocate that he was satisfied with the board’s response: “I think it was an overzealous inspector, and a misinterpretation of the regulations,” he said. “I think the Board of Health handled it exceptionally and said ‘how can we fix it.’ I’m happy we talked through it.”
as comfortable as possible,” said Shawn Alarie, another organizer. “We’re really pulling at the whole community.”
Added Heald: “We put this event up because we knew there was a community that’d support it.”
The goal, said Heald, is to have money year-round so that Shrewsbury Pitches In, now a 501(c)(3) organization, can help people whenever a tragedy happens. The 10th annual event will happen on April 11, and the group confirmed something special is planned.
Cliffs. Whether it was advocating for the town to purchase the property nearly 10 years ago, researching and applying for grants for preservation, or writing a detailed history of the property, officials and residents alike have played a role in trying to secure its future.
“I think it was a great idea to open the building to the public. It’s something that hasn’t been done, and it’s been 11 years since the building’s been locked up,” said Norm Corbin, a historian at the Northborough Historical Society. “Everybody that’s walking in is pretty excited to see the condition of the building, and a lot of them have had receptions here.”
A Special Town Meeting will be held on Nov. 3 at Algonquin Regional High School to decide the fate of White Cliffs. The warrant includes articles pertaining to the lease of White Cliffs to
It would be awesome to see it become something really special in the community again. — Victor Jacek, local resident
Elegant Banquets and zoning for the property.
John Royce, the owner of Elegant Banquets, spoke to residents about the company’s plans for the property. While the final decision on the lease will not be made until November, Royce said he hopes residents will have faith in the company’s vision for White Cliffs and its commitment to preserving its historical integrity.
“I think if they look at their tax dollars that went in to keep this from getting into further disarray, they’ll probably say it was the right decision,” Royce said.
“I think if we get the opportunity to bring the mansion back, it’ll bring a lot of jobs. It’ll bring the mansion back to as close as it was originally built, and I think people will be really proud of this building again,” he added.
Cigars | from page 1
Gary is back!
By Gary Kelley
Well, I am back. Some of you may not have noticed I was gone. Sue Gordon did an excellent job writing the column while I was not here. The truth is, I wanted a break, and Sue is trying to launch her business. After three months, she was ready to hand the reins back to me, and I was missing it so the timing was serendipitous. I met with the publisher of the Community Advocate on the same day Sue passed on the column. David Bagdon encouraged me to come back. He particularly likes my style which I would characterize as irreverent. Or is it irrelevant?
While I was on sabbatical, I started my own brokerage following my own standards and rules as opposed to blindly following someone else’s. To open a brokerage, you need to pass a broker’s license test. Some would say nothing has changed in real estate and I would submit that may be true in many ways. The brokerage test and an agent test are very similar. Yes, you have to take classes and take the test and once you pass you’re on your own.
I also moved. Moving is a pain in the **** . As much as I experience helping people move, and my professional domain is “movewithgary.com”, I still dislike the process.
For this move I used my cleaner to pack and unpack everything. My trusted mover Brian McIver did the heavy stuff. My actual move was simple and occurred essentially in a day.
One thing changing in real estate is a new state policy went into effect protecting home buyers’ rights to a home inspection. (Like we need more government intervention.) Two main thrusts. Buyers now have a right to do a home inspection before committing to a home, and real estate agents need to disclose this.
Far too often agents encourage buyers to pass on a home inspection to make their offer look more appealing. And there are times it makes sense, and we can still opt out for tear downs, raw land, etc.
Frankly I like inspections. It opens a buyers’ eyes about purchasing something with glaring flaws an inspector would pick up on. I don’t want to be the one commenting on condition as I am not an inspector. Sure I’ve seen a bunch of houses but that doesn’t make me qualified to do an inspection. Similarly, I’ve driven a lot of cars and you don’t see me signing up to drive in a NASCAR race.
I feel like we just lost a lever – if an informed buyer wants to pass on an inspection. Starting Oct 15, the seller has to reject an offer if they hear no inspection during offers. Senseless bureaucracy. Anti-capitalism. Let the market perform.
As I think about upcoming columns, I want to take them up a notch and focus on more interesting topics. For the record, front doors should be blue and interior walls should be neutral. There, you have it. No need to cover again. I’ll update as they change. I want to share more about my experiences, the good and the bad, to help others understand how they can be successful. Let me know if you have any interesting topics for coverage.
If you need advice on selling your home or buying a new one, give us a call 508-733-6005, or explore MoveWithGary.com.
Old Connecticut Path passed through Grafton
GRAFTON THEN NOW
By Kristen Remillard History Columnist
GRAFTON – In 1633, almost 400 years ago, a man named Thomas Hooker along with 200 other Europeans boarded a boat called the Griffin, a vessel very similar to the Mayflower. They embarked on a two-month journey to the New World of America. Hooker’s last sermon in England was titled, “Danger of Desertion, A Farewell Sermon.” He spoke to his fellow Englishmen about the downfall of England, and he claimed there would soon be a “civil war” due to the hostile climate there.
Ironically, when arriving in America, more specifically Newtowne (now Cambridge), Hooker and his followers were disappointed to learn that things were run somewhat similar in the New World. People were interrogated before they were allowed to vote, for instance, and the people who were chosen to vote were mostly male Puritans. Luckily for Hooker and company, they had freedom to leave and start fresh.
By 1636, three years after arriving, Hooker and most of his congregation left Newtowne and headed for Connecticut due to their disagreements with how the settlement was run. The following statement was written in the Journal of John Winthrop, Governor of Newtowne:
“Thomas Hooker, Pastor of the Church in Newtown and most of his congregation went to Connecticut. His wife was
Start-to-finish customer service with Inka Construction Group
By Paul Hopkins Reporter
REGION – Maria Pevzner is nothing if not passionate.
Passionate about life, her family and Inka Construction Group, the business she and her husband, Nik, operate in Westborough. She’s also incredibly energetic, which comes across in her dedication to phenomenal customer service.
“Communication with our customers is key. We say what we will do, and we do what we say,” she said. Inka Construction calls people back in a timely fashion and shows up on-schedule; Pevzner knows that homeowners can’t afford to wait for a contractor who doesn’t respect people’s time.
Nik Pevzner has extensive experience in commercial and residential contracting. He makes sure that all aspects of the work in the field are performed to the highest standards, keeps costs fair, and ensures the worksite is
tidy and clean and the client’s personal space isn’t disturbed. Home improvement can be an overwhelming process, but Inka tries to make it as simple and easy as possible.
“Nik takes a personal approach to every project — he truly does for our clients exactly what he would do for our own home,” said Maria Pevzner. “The work we do for people often involves customized solutions, and we know how to find those solutions … Nik and I oversee all aspects of the business, and all aspects of a job from estimating to the finish. That means we know our customers’ needs first-hand.”
Whether it’s building decks, renovating sunrooms, replacing windows, or more minor projects like replacing siding, Inka Construction is ready to help.
Maria Pevzner also holds a real estate broker’s license and can offer her take on adding value to a home with the right project: “For 19 years I
have been the co-owner of a boutique real estate firm that specializes in finding customized strategies for each client, whether selling or buying their home or looking for the best investment properties in Massachusetts, and my real estate background has been invaluable to Inka Construction.”
And where does “Inka” come from? When the Pevzners’ daughter was young, she had trouble pronouncing her four-syllable given name, and her own version of it — Inka — eventually became the family business name. Both of the business-owners grew up in Russia before immigrating to the U.S.
Inka Construction serves towns in the Westborough and Worcester area and beyond, with recent jobs in Boston, Newton, and Sudbury. The company has an office on Wayside Road in Westborough and can be reached by visiting www.inkaconstruction.com.
seasonal flavors and creative fun. Sip on warm cider and savor fall-inspired refreshments as you create your own beautiful harvest centerpiece to take home.
Nik and Maria Pevzner run Inka Construction Group. (Photos/Courtesy)
— Maria Pevzner, Co-owner
Practice of Family and Cosmetic Dentistry has one priority: the patient
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SOUTHBOROUGH – After more than 25 years as the top dental practice in Ashland, Dr. Marc Rubin’s dental office, Practice of Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, has moved to a new location in Southborough.
“The upcoming demolition and redevelopment of our Ashland office building required us to find a new home,” said Dr. Rubin, “but it also gave us the opportunity to upgrade to a brand new, modern dental office with tons of parking and full handicap accessibility.”
Although the new space offered Dr. Rubin an opportunity to build his dream office from the ground up, what makes his practice truly special has stayed the same: his patients, and, most importantly, his talented staff members. A commitment to building relationships and top-quality service has made the Practice of Family & Cosmetic Dentistry one of the best offices in the region.
“The most important aspect
of the move wasn’t installing new dental equipment, it was what we brought with us. Our whole staff came with us, and our patients have followed,” said Dr. Rubin. “We’re not a big corporate dental practice, we’re independent, so we don’t have an agenda other than to provide the best care for our patients. Our practice is built on trust and we don’t upsell. If someone needs a certain procedure, we tell them. If they don’t, we tell them that as well.”
That service mindset goes a long way. Everything at the Practice of Family & Cosmetic Dentistry is designed to make people feel comfortable about going to the dentist. The TVs mounted above the chairs have subscriptions to just about every streaming service, Dr. Rubin jokes, and each room comes equipped with a Nintendo Switch for children.
The staff – including Dr. Rubin and his two associate dentists, Dr. Teodora Silva and Dr. Gene Sachakov – are kind, caring, and knowledgeable. On
top of taking care of people’s teeth, the dentists and hygienists take pride in the long-term relationships they have built with their patients. Dr. Rubin has been the family dentist for entire families – beginning with parents who started seeing him and then brought their children, who then grew up and now bring their children. The practice offers just about every dental service inhouse, eliminating the need to go to a different office for specialty services. This ranges
from routine cleanings to implants and crowns, oral surgery, Invisalign, and dentures. Dr. Rubin can help you achieve a perfect smile, but he also loves helping those less excited about dentistry.
“We have the confidence that we can solve people’s dental issues and give them the smile they want,” said Dr. Rubin. “But the real pride isn’t with that – it’s helping a child who was scared for his first visit and laughing when he leaves. Or, an adult who hasn’t been to
the dentist for a long time and is anxious or embarrassed, and having them leave confident and with the realization that a trip to the dentist is nothing to be worried about.”
“That’s really what makes me feel really great,” he added. For more information on the Practice of Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, now located at 153 Cordaville Road in Southborough, please visit the company’s website at https://shinyteeth.com/ or call (508) 881-4266.
The Marlborough Commuter Shuttle
The 14 – passenger handicap-accessible shuttle connects local commuters and employees between the City of Marlborough and the Southborough MBTA Commuter Rail. The commuter route includes three round trips in the morning and in the evening to and from the business park at 200 Forest Street/ Campus Drive, Apex Center of New England, and downtown Marlborough. This option provides free public transportation for those who take the train to and/or from Boston & Worcester.
Monday through Friday
Morning Trips: 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.
Afternoon/Evening Trips: 3:45 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Any questions or concerns, please contact us at 508-229-2010 or info@marlboroughedc.com
For local veterans, this art show is more than just an exhibit
By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter
NORTHBOROUGH — Vincent
F. Picard American Legion Post 234 hosted its third Veterans Art Show during Applefest weekend, featuring paintings and other work from a variety of local artists.
From abstracts to watercolor to landscapes, artwork lined the walls. Over the years, the money raised from the show has gone back to Post 234. The shows have raised about $1,500.
Max Strickland, the Post 234 Adjutant and one of the artists featured in the show, said the initiative was started by him and World War II veteran Frank Brown. This year’s show also featured metal diecast models of military jets and planes by Shrewsbury’s Michael Perna, Jr.
“This stuff should be seen and so people can enjoy it because some of it is really good,” Strickland said.
Strickland specializes in watercolor painting, and found his love of art through local painting classes.
“I was working a lot and stressed out, and I needed something to have a release and some kind of creative thing,” Strickland said, adding that he “did a lot of crafting” with his daughter, who’s now in college.
Brown, the founder of Brown’s TV & Appliance, stumbled upon his interest in painting by accident. While fixing a television, German art instructor Bill Alexander came on screen.
“This guy came on and he painted a picture in half an hour. And I said, ‘Hey, I bet I could do that,’” Brown told the Community Advocate.
Without thinking twice, he went to Spag’s Supply and got paint and anything else a budding artist might need. He followed Alexander’s tutorials over and over, taping them so he could rewatch.
“He’s not one to sit still,” Strickland joked.
Soon enough, Brown’s determination and practice produced beautiful landscapes. And he didn’t stop there. Over the years, Brown continued to paint and paint and paint.
Much of his work ended up sitting in his garage. It wasn’t until Brown, a frequent visitor of the legion, was talking with Strickland about raising money for Post 234 that the idea of selling his art came to mind. The two artists came
together and started compiling their work.
“I thought I had maybe 25 or 30 [paintings], and we brought them all down. I counted and I had over 100,” Brown said.
But for Strickland and Brown, getting to show their work and even sell it meant something more.
“It’s really amazing. I didn’t think anybody would want my
The veteran’s art show featured work from local artists Frank Brown and Max Strickland. (Photos/ Shealagh Sullivan)
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Behind the counter at Hudson’s Main Street Bagel Factory
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
HUDSON – It’s about 3:30 a.m., and while the rest of Downtown Hudson sleeps, Petros Muratoglu is hard at work, mixing water, yeast, flour, salt, sugar, and a variety of other ingredients to make his signature fare: bagels. It’s dark outside – there’s hardly a car on Main Street — but Muratoglu’s kitchen is bustling.
Main Street Bagel Factory — located at 51 Main Street, Hudson — sells over 1,500 bagels every day, each of which was handmade by Muratoglu before 6 a.m., when the shop opens its doors in the morning. Since the “factory” opened in 2017, it’s become a staple of Downtown Hudson, serving up breakfast and lunch every day.
“Everything is made here. People believe in that. People love homemade,” Muratoglu told the Community Advocate. “If you buy frozen, you’re not going to last. You can’t lie to people — everyone knows I make everything here.”
Muratoglu, who was born in Greece and formerly owned donut shops in Quincy, runs the Main Street Bagel Factory with his daughter, Despina. When he arrives at the shop in the morning, he turns on the kettle and goes downstairs to make the dough.
There’s a variety of doughs to create — pumpernickel, asiago, jalapeno, cinnamon raisin, and many others — and Muratoglu makes them all, daily. After the ingredients are folded together in an industrial-size mixer, he blesses the dough before it enters a bagel-making machine, which spits out 230 bagels in just 10 minutes.
Then, the bagels are brought up to the kettle, where they cook for a minute. After the quick dip, they’re transferred to the oven to bake at around 450 degrees Fahrenheit; they come out with a golden brown crust and soft interior.
They’re bought by the public almost immediately. During its busiest times — often Christmas Eve, Mother’s Day, or Father’s Day — the Main Street Bagel Factory might sell 2,500 bagels, and Muratoglu has to keep making bagels
all day.
“I sell a lot of breakfast. A lot,” he joked.
In addition to the bagels, he goes through about 200 pounds of cream cheese weekly, along with about 75 pounds of bacon, plenty of sausage, and thousands of eggs. Bagels aren’t the only thing fresh on Main Street: Muratoglu also bakes muffins daily.
Muratoglu’s favorite menu item? It’s a jalapeno bagel with sausage, egg, and cheese.
“It’s just the best,” he said. “The jalapeno bagels are really good.”
When the store closes at 2:30 p.m., it’s time for Muratoglu to return home to be with his family. But almost 12 hours later, he’ll find himself back in Hudson.
After all, there are bagels to make.
“Bagels — they’re just a great food,” he said. “I’m really proud to make them here.”
Petros Muratoglu spends his mornings crafting the perfect bagel. (Photos/Evan Walsh)
Shrewsbury Media Connection update: PSAs, Freely Speaking, free podcasts
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – Shrewsbury Media Connection (SMC), a nonprofit dedicated to providing Shrewsbury residents with unparalleled access to the community through media, has a variety of ways for residents to have their voices heard.
PSA Day
All Shrewsbury nonprofits will be able to record a free 60-second public service announcement, as SMC opens its studio (15 Parker Road) in an effort to help local organizations get their name
out there.
Email liz@shrewsburymediaconnection.org to register for your spot on either Nov. 13 from 12 to 4 p.m., or Nov. 15 from 11 to 2 p.m. The video can be used on your website and social media channels.
“Here at Shrewsbury Media Connection, we really feel like it’s important to highlight the non-profits in town. We want to give them their own place to make a statement,” said Liz Poplawski, an assistant director at Shrewsbury Media Connection.
SMC Podcast Studio
As SMC remodeled its studio, it created a new space
which is now open to the public: the SMC Podcast Studio. Residents, civic groups, and non-profits are welcome to record podcasts that inform, inspire, or entertain. SMC offers production support, and podcasts are distributed to all major podcast platforms.
“We’re trying to fulfill our public access mission. We know people are watching cable broadcasts, but more people are listening to podcasts,” Shrewsbury Media Connection Executive Director Marc Serra told the Community Advocate.
Freely Speaking
SMC will also open the studio from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Oct. 15 for “Freely Speaking,” an open-mic event at SMC’s office where Shrewsbury residents get five minutes to be heard. Whether it’s a story, a local history tidbit, a
poem, a skill, or just speaking your mind, you’re welcome to come by.
“We wanted to create a safe, supportive space for people to express themselves, express their ideas, and encourage civic engagement,” said Serra.
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
GRAFTON – When trains cross a public road, they must honk, according to federal law: There’s ordinarily two long honks, one short honk, and
one extended honk that’s meant to serve as a last warning. The system is meant to ensure nobody is on the tracks at the time of the crossing, but it can also serve as a bit of a nuisance in some cases, according to residents.
“I love the Commuter Rail, I love that it’s going through Grafton. But it honks – a lot,” a resident told the Grafton Select Board.
At the Select Board’s Sept. 23 meeting, two Grafton residents came forward with a
citizens’ petition to spend $75,000 to study the establishment of a “quiet zone” on Parmenter Road, a street off of Westboro Road (Route 30) near Institute Road. A “quiet zone” would make it so that trains wouldn’t have to honk
when crossing the street.
After discussion with the Select Board, the two residents seemed generally amenable to withdrawing their petition and working through a process with Town Administrator Evan Brassard to institute a “quiet zone.” Brassard said he was working through a “Quiet Zone Calculator” to figure out the necessary steps to make the change. A petition is still possible in the future.
It may be a stretch to call Parmenter Road a road at all, which is part of the reason the residents came forward. Created in 1941 to access what what then the Parmenter property, the road was allegedly discontinued as a public way in the 1950s, according to Brassard. There’s currently no through traffic on the road, which is narrow and functionally one lane.
In 2017, then-Town Administrator Tim McInerney requested a quiet zone in the area, but no other records exist.
Since the road is incredibly sparsely used, one lane, and has sirens and gates to keep people safe when trains are crossing, the residents reasoned there is no public safety threat by stopping trains from honking, which sometimes happens at 2 a.m.
Local towns look to tackle youth substance abuse
By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter
SOUTHBOROUGH — In the library of Trottier Middle School, members of the public from all walks of life gathered for one purpose: substance use prevention.
Parents, teachers, first responders, public health officials, students, and more attended the third annual Encompass retreat last month to brainstorm the organization’s action plan for the upcoming year.
Encompass was formally founded in 2023, though its origins date back to 2012 under the name Prevention Coalition. It’s a community coalition “focused on preventing and reducing substance misuse in Northborough and Southborough,” according to its webpage. The coalition is funded by a five-year Drug-Free Communities grant from the Center for Disease protection totaling $125,000.
“I think that when you have a community like the North-
borough-Southborough community that is as committed to the well being of kids, you really get some special work happening,” said Emily Flavin, Northborough’s drug free communities coordinator and the coordinator of Encompass. At this year’s retreat, community members looked at data about youth substance use and analyzed the coalition’s current goals and strategies. The goals range from providing information and support to reducing access to substances and advocating for a change in policy.
“I am proud of how far we’ve come,” said Flavin.
Flavin said the coalition always needs more voices. The goal is to welcome members of the community from schools, local businesses, religious institutions, and more: “You don’t have to be in the field of substance use prevention, you don’t have to be a health professional. Everyone fits in somewhere,” she said.
What does the data show?
According to data from the 2023 MetroWest Adolescent Health Survey and the 2025
Encompass Parent Survey, teen drinking is often overestimated and students and parents disagree about which substances pose the greatest risk. At the time of the surveys, 68 percent of parents said they think “most students” drink. However, only 24 percent of students reported drinking in the last 30 days.
“Kids aren’t using drugs like you think they are,” Flavin said. According to Flavin, Encompass aims to support “positive social norms” to encourage students who are not participating in substance use.
In high school, students don’t want to be the odd ones out. When adults and schools celebrate the majority of kids that aren’t drinking or using drugs, it helps make students secure in their choices to not use, Flavin said.
Typically, prevention tactics center around fear. The traditional methods of showing car crashes and grieving parents and friends aren’t wrong, said Flavin, but they can’t stand alone when it comes to today’s youth.
“Those stories are valuable, and they have their place, and we absolutely should utilize those stories because they emotionally connect with people. But in terms of reducing youth substance use, they do not work,” she said.
Data from the surveys also show that 91 percent of students view using electronic vapor products (e-cigarettes) as risky, while 84 percent of parents thought so. On the other hand, 72 percent of students view using marijuana 1-2 times a week to be risky, while 89 percent of parents view it as risky.
The difference between parents and students shows the need for communication, Flavin said.
“If they take anything away from where the field is at right now, it’s moving away from those fear tactics and moving into open communication, talking about it more often, encouraging parents to sit down with their kids and have these conversations and really focus on the positive,” Flavin said.
COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
Potential SHS expansion nears another pinch point at Town Meeting
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – A possible Shrewsbury High School expansion has to clear another hurdle.
Shrewsbury Town Meeting will consider on Oct. 22 an article seeking to appropriate $3 million to fund architects, designers, and other professionals to produce schematic designs of a potential expansion, helping Shrewsbury High School move deeper into the Massachusetts School Building Authority’s (MSBA) pipeline.
The process would be overseen by the Shrewsbury High School Building Committee, which was formed at the May 2025 Town Meeting. Half of the appropriation ($1.5 million) would come from free cash, with the other half coming from a borrowing authorization. Since the MSBA reimburses 50 percent of design costs, it’s likely that the borrowing authorization would never happen, according to Town Manager Kevin Mizikar.
If Shrewsbury High School’s expansion makes it to the finish line, the MSBA would pay 50 percent of the total costs.
Shrewsbury High School opened in 2002 with around 1,150 students. But the school, designed to hold 1,475 students, was over capacity by 2006, and at its peak in 2020, the school held close to 1,900 students. By modern design standards, the school’s capacity is around 1,250.
In March 2024, the School Committee sent forward an SOI that was eventually accepted. In April 2025, the multi-step, yearslong process to start the potential expansion officially got underway. Now almost two years into the process — and with plenty of work remaining — the $3 million ask represents an important step.
If the measure passes, there will be plenty of paperwork –and plenty of public meetings to tune into. But once the $3 million is approved, the next vote to come before residents will be the town’s whole portion of the project, almost certain to be the most expensive project in recent Shrewsbury history.
Though rejection at Town Meeting may not entirely stop the project — another Town Meeting could theoretically be
scheduled before the MSBA’s Nov. 28 deadline — it would seriously dampen hopes of the project going forward in the short-term. In the long-term, there’s no guarantee the MSBA will choose Shrewsbury High School for this ulta-competitive process again. The MSBA chose just 22 projects from among 199 applications, and Shrewsbury High School wasn’t chosen the year prior to successful application.
Even if Shrewsbury High School is chosen by the MSBA in subsequent years, it’s likely that the project would cost more, and the considerable time spent completing steps to get to this project — like submitting an Initial Compliance Certification (ICC) and forming a School Building Committee (in May 2025)— would’ve been wasted.
Critics of the Shrewsbury High School expansion say that waiting may be the best option. Select Board Chair Theresa
Flynn has objected to the expansion since 2023, and Beth Casavant and Gregg Richards voted against forming the Building Committee. Opponents have frequently claimed that between rising costs and an operational override
needed in the future, asking for an expansion to Shrewsbury High School is just too much. The town rejected a $40 million DPW project in May. Funding information for the project will likely be available in mid-2027. Assum -
ing everything progresses without any roadblocks, the townwide vote on the project would likely be in fall 2027, with completion of the project expected between August 2030 and November 2031.
Looking forward to celebrating Shrewsbury’s past: Meet the Shrewsbury Historical Society
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – In the heart of Shrewsbury Center, a modest white building quietly holds the town’s most treasured stories. Once a schoolhouse dedicated to educating the town’s future, the building is now used to showcase the town’s past.
The 1830 Schoolhouse, as the building is often called, is the home of the Shrewsbury Historical Society, a group created in 1898 to “keep alive and increase interest in the history … of Shrewsbury, and to collect and preserve items of special value, traditions, and curiosities.”
Inside the building there’s a meeting room — the site of dozens of presentations and events — several exhibits, and a museum on the second floor. It’s also a “second home” to dozens of volunteers who spend their time researching and organizing Shrewsbury’s past.
“It’s really incumbent on our generation, the leadership of the society, and the members to share these stories to make sure that they continue into the future. We need to preserve what we have,” said Kristine Gustafson, the society’s vice-president.
“We take history for granted,” said Linda Davis, the museum’s curator. “I’ve had people come from Montana, Mississippi, and they’re literally here for foliage. It’s crazy to come all the way from Montana to see. But I mean, we take a lot of stuff, I think, for granted because you grow up and it surrounds you. I think it’s just part of you growing up in an area you’re aware of what is around you, but you don’t think of it as being anything overly special until someone opens your eyes to it.”
The museum’s collection started when the society did. In the late 1800s, the society’s founders — many of whom were descendants of key town figures, or important in town themselves — were asked to donate historical items. Since then, donations of all kinds have come in steadily, and the museum has over 3,900 artifacts.
The schoolhouse’s main hall displays a list of Shrewsbury minutemen who answered the call to fight in the Revolutionary War. There are quilts — which can get extremely intricate and almost autobiographical — guns made by Shrewsbury resident Silas Allen, and photographs and oil paintings of mid-1900s Shrewsbury.
“I love history, it’s fun. I enjoy history. I enjoy the houses, the way they were, the way they are. Yeah. I started taking photos of houses back in the ’70s. It’s my hometown,” said Erik Larson, the society’s president.
There’s so much to explore, but the society also takes history on the road. Gustafson and Larson go to dozens of kindergarten classrooms every year to discuss the toys that Shrewsbury residents played with centuries ago. Over 300 third-graders also visit the museum.
“I got involved in history because of the love of history that was instilled in our family from my parents, and now it’s the time for the next generation to bring those stories forward and to share them, especially with the young people. One of the things that our society prides itself on and our 126 years of existence as a society — we were established in 1898 — is our outreach to the community, especially through the schools and the young people,” said Gustafson.
And with the 300th anniversary of Shrewsbury ahead in 2027, the Historical Society is hoping more residents be-
come interested in its offerings. The society welcomes everyone to explore the past.
“People have been here all these years – we grew up with the apple orchards being here, fields here — but still 50 percent of the population probably has no idea that the Historical Society exists. I’m hoping that people that have moved in all over the place realize all that our history has to offer,” said Davis.
Michael Perna Jr. will present “Spag: His Life and Legacy” on Oct. 29. Other presentations include Richard Eckert’s “Early 19th Century Tinsmithing” on Nov. 12, and “Shrewsbury History from A to Z” by Linda Davis. Don’t miss the holiday model trains during the Yuletide Market on Dec. 6.
For more information, visit https://www.shrewsburyhistoricalsociety.org/.
—Kristine Gustafson, vice-president “ “
LEGAL NOTICES
LEGAL PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
MARLBOROUGH
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING APPEAL
Notice is hereby given that the Marlborough Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on October 21, 2025, at 7:00pm in Marlborough City Hall, 140 Main St. – 3rd floor Memorial Hall.
Petition:
The applicant seeks to install a new 30’ by 30’ detached two-car garage with storage above at 215 Cullinane Dr. (Exclusive Use Area #215). The Board shall determine whether the applicant qualifies for a Section 6 finding in compliance with Chapter 650, Article 17 of the Marlborough Zoning Ordinance. If it qualifies for a Section 6 finding a special permit from the Marlborough ZBA will be considered.
For further assistance, please contact the ZBA at 508-460-3768. All interested persons are invited. Applicant or representative must be present.
Ralph Loftin Chairman
SOUTHBOROUGH
TED’S OF FAYEVILLE
Notice is hereby given by Ted’s of Fayville, 300 Turnpike Road., Southborough, MA 01772, pursuant to the provisions of G.L. c. 255, section 39A, that on Wednesday October 22, 2025 at 10 am an auction sale on the web based site of http:// sta.ibidsmart.com the following motor vehicles will be sold to satisfy our garage keeper’s lien thereon for storage, towing charges, care and expenses of notices and sale of said vehicles. Starting October 10, 2025 at 9 am, vehicles can be viewed at http://sta.ibidsmart.com.
This is not an absolute auction we reserve the right to set a minimum on all auction vehicles. If a particular vehicle is not listed on http://sta.ibidsmart.com call 508-4850503 for bidding instructions.
This notice has been given under the provisions of G.L. c. 255, Section 39A.
Publication Friday September 26, October 3 and 10, 2025 Community Advocate.
The Hudson Conservation Commission will hold a Public Hearing relative to the following filing under The Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. Chapter 131, Section 40) as requested by Michael Keller. The owner of the property is Michael Keller. The work is located at 26 Lakeside Avenue (Map-Parcel 36-2). The proposed project is replacement of a patio in Buffer Zone to Lake Boon. The Public Hearing will be held via remote video conference on October 23, 2025 at 7:00 pm. Please contact the Conservation Commission Office for information on joining the meeting: phelinek@ townofhudson.org or 978-562- 2948. All interested parties are urged to attend. The application can be obtained through email by contacting the Conservation Commission Office.
LEGAL NOTICE
Pursuant to Chapter 92 of the Acts of 2020 of the General Court of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, as approved by the Governor on June 5, 2020, and specifically, Section 7 thereof, notice is hereby given that on October 20, 2025 at 7:00 pm Hudson Select Board will conduct a meeting at the Hudson Police Department’s Community Room, 911 Municipal Drive, Hudson, MA. 01749 to discuss an adjustment and reduction of the quorum requirement for Town Meeting scheduled for November 17, 2025.
SHREWSBURY
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS PUBLIC HEARINGS
RICHARD D. CARNEY MUNICIPAL OFFICE BUILDING
100 MAPLE AVENUE
SHREWSBURY, MA
OCTOBER 27, 2025 6:00 PM
To hear the appeal of Kevin Kieler, 31 Solomon Pond Road, Northborough, MA 01532, for a Variance to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII - Table II to construct a deck thirty-five and two tenths feet (35.2’) from the rear yard setback where forty feet (40’) is required upon property located at 355 Grafton Street in the Residence A zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 41 Plot 012005.
David Moore, Clerk
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 Mark Lambert, 41 Campground Road, West Boylston, MA 01583 has filed a Request for Determination of Applicability for the removal of 2 trees at 24 Pondview Drive. A public hearing will be held for the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, October 21, 2025, in the Selectboard Room, Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury 01545.
SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Kenneth Polito, Chair
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 Daniel Campbell, 249 South Street, Unit 1, Plainville, MA 02762 has filed a Request to Amend the Order of Conditions for 2851905 for the construction of a parking lot expansion at 800 Boston Turnpike. A public hearing will be held for the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, October 21, 2025, in the Selectboard Room, Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury 01545.
SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Kenneth Polito, Chair
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY PUBLIC HEARING
Notice is hereby given that Tavern in the Square Shrewsbury LLC, d/b/a Tavern in the Square, located at 193 Boston Turnpike, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, has applied to the Select Board for approval of a Change of Ownership Interest to its All Alcoholic Beverages Restaurant License, in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 138.
A public hearing on this application will be held on Tuesday, October 14, 2025 at 7:05 PM in the Select Board Meeting Room, Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA. Select Board Town of Shrewsbury
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
The Select Board will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at 7:05 PM in the Selectmen’s Meeting Room to accept public comment on the issue of allocating the local property tax levy among the four classes of real property and of personal property for Fiscal Year 2026 pursuant to MGL Chapter 40, Section 56. Upon the conclusion of this public hearing, the Select Board will determine the percentages of the local tax levy to be borne by each class of real property, as defined in General Laws Chapter 59, Section 2A and personal property for Fiscal Year 2026.
At this hearing, the Board of Assessors will be present to provide all information and data relevant to the Select Board in making such determination and the fiscal effect of the available options.
Interested taxpayers, citizens, and/or residents are encouraged to attend this public hearing to offer any written or oral comments, email selectboard@shrewsburyma. gov, or mail any comments to the Select Board, 100 Maple Avenue, to be received by 12:00 PM on Tuesday, October 28, 2025. Information related to this matter can be viewed and copies obtained pursuant to application statutes and regulations in the Office of the Select Board during normal business hours.
Theresa M. Flynn, Chair Select Board
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY PUBLIC HEARING
Notice is hereby given that Hartford Gas and Market, LLC of 313 Boston Post Road West, Marlborough, MA 01752 has applied to the Select Board for an Underground Storage Tank License at 193 Hartford Turnpike, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 148, Section 13.
A public hearing on this application will be held on Tuesday, October 14, 2025 at 7:10 PM in the Select Board Meeting Room, Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA. Select Board Town of Shrewsbury
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS HIGHWAY DIVISION
SNOW
PLOW CONTRACTORS WANTED
The Town of Shrewsbury Highway Division seeks snow plow contractors for the 2025-2026 winter season. All interested contractors must submit applications in conformance with the “Information for Contractors, Requirements and Specifications for Snow and Ice Removal & Snow Hauling Operations” 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). Contractors and equipment must be available for the entire winter season on a 24 hour a day basis and will be responsible for plowing specific routes within the Town.
HIGHER RATES AND BONUSES ARE BEING OFFERED THIS SEASON. Hourly rates will
be based on the width of the plow and the gross vehicle rating of the equipment furnished. Applications will be received in the Town Manager’s Office at 100 Maple Avenue in Shrewsbury, MA or via email to jgoodwin@shrewsburyma.gov. If a Contractor and the Town enter into a fully executed contract by 10:00 AM on October 17, 2025, that Contractor will be awarded a sign-on bonus of $1,000 per each piece of equipment they will be using.
This request for Contractors is exempt from typical procurement procedures under M.G.L. Ch.30B § 1(b)(17).
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY
Kevin J. Mizikar Town Manager
NORTHBOROUGH
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE NORTHBOROUGH
Northborough Zoning Board of Appeals
In accordance with the provisions of MGL Chapter 40A, Section 9, the Northborough Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at 7pm in Conference Room B, 1st floor of Town Hall, 63 Main Street, Northborough, to consider the petition for an Appeal of the Inspector of Buildings/Zoning Enforcement Officer’s determination regarding the height and placement of a fence on the property located at 8 Sterling Court, Map 53, Parcel 160, in the Residential C
Zoning District and Groundwater Protection Overlay District Area 3, submitted by Aly Abayazeed. 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 via audio: +1 646 876 9923 Webinar ID: 815 9795 7513 Passcode: 035152 Live Stream link YouTube: https://www. youtube.com/@northboroughmediaconnection This application can be viewed in the Planning Department during business hours or online at https://www.town. northborough.ma.us/zoning-board-appeals/pages/currently-under-review-zba. Paul Tagliaferri, Chairman October 10, 2025 and October 17, 2025
WORCESTER
Notice is hereby given pursuant to the provision of M.G.L. c 255 Section 39A that on November 14th, 2025, the following vehicle will be sold at a private sale to satisfy our garage keeper’s lien thereof for towing, storage, & notices of sale. To be sold at Belsito Auto 245 SW Cutoff Worcester MA. 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport VIN: 4A4AR4AU6DE013484
Owned by: Serena Manos
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
Alemayehu, Makonnen of Southborough Anderson, Jeffrey of Southborough Bartolini, Robert formerly of Southborough Benway, David of Marlborough
Bourgeois, Brian of Hudson Carr Sr., William of Shrewsbury Castellano Jr., Philip of Shrewsbury Garland, Susan formerly of Marlborough Giroux, Joseph of Northborough Hayes, Judith of Marlborough Jones, Christopher former pastor of FUMC of Hudson and Marlborough Lynch, Roderick of Westborough McFarland, John of Marlborough Millette, Marc of Northborough Peters, Linda of Marlborough Shaffer, Mariann formerly of Northborough
Marc D. Millette, 42
NORTHBOROUGH - Marc
Daniel Millette of Northborough, MA sadly passed away Sunday September 21, 2025, at UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester after a short period of declining health. Marc was born December 11, 1982, in Dorchester, MA to Gerard and Rita Marie (Nee) Millette of Quincy, MA. Marc leaves his beautiful wife, Amanda Megan Derosier Millette and his two children Grace Celina Millette and Washburne Nathaniel Millette all of Northborough. Also left behind are Marc’s parents, older brother, Matthew Gerard Millette of Quincy, younger brother Andrew John Millette of Dorchester, father and mother-in-law Paul
Arnold Derosier and Lynne
Patricia (Rowe) Derosier of Northborough, sister-in-law
Amy Lynne Derosier and her husband Kevin Robert Goodwin and their son Wyatt Derosier Goodwin all of Lansing, MI. Brother-in-law Matthew
Paul Derosier and his wife Priscilla Marie (Shelberg) Derosier and their daughters
Emma Marie Derosier and Cara Lynne Derosier all of East Haddam, CT. As well as many aunts, uncles and cousins. Marc was preceded in death by his beloved aunts Helen Mary Nee and Elaine Nancy (Beston) Nee.
Hays Funeral Home of Northborough assisted the family.
Philip Castellano Jr., 76
SHREWSBURY - Philip Castellano Jr. passed away on September 19, 2025. He was 76 years old.
In his final years, Philip moved to Shrewsbury, Massachusetts to be closer to his daughter and only grandchild. Born in NYC on July 9, 1949, to the late Philip P. and Rose (Cammarota) Castellano, Philip was number three of four sons. Philip grew up in Hauppauge, NY in a home that his father built.
Philip is survived by his daughter, Jocelyn (Castellano) Laakso and grandson, Kyle Laakso of Shrewsbury, MA. Philip is preceded in death by his son, Philip P. Castellano II with whom he has been reunited. He is also survived by his bothers, Angelo, Michael and Anthony, along with many nieces and nephews. Clayton Funeral Home, Inc. of Kings Park, NY assisted the family.
John A. McFarland, 77
MARLBOROUGH - John “Mac”
A. McFarland of Marlborough passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family at Massachusetts
General Hospital at the age of 77 on Monday, September
22. Born, raised, and educated in Waltham, Mac was the son of the late Theodore and Eleanor (Thompson) McFarland.
Mac is predeceased by his parents Theodore and Eleanor McFarland; his brother Thomas “Tom” McFarland, brother-in-law, Ellsworth “Ells” Hart and his in-laws Phillip and Dorothy Pond.
Mac is survived by his wife Linda (Pond) McFarland of Marlborough; his devoted children Matthew McFarland and his wife Ellie and their children Teddy and Matty of Hudson; Kelly Moore and her husband Ryan and their children Tyler and Kaitlyn of Marlboro; his sister Dolores “Dee” Hart and sister-in-law Judie McFarland, his brotherin-law Michael Pond and his wife Beth. Additionally, he is survived by many nieces, nephews, and close friends.
Brasco Memorial Funeral Home of Waltham assisted the family.
Mariann Shaffer, 85
ENFIELD, NH - Mariann Poyer Shaffer passed away on September 5, 2025, at Sunapee Cove Memory Care under hospice care. She was born June 8, 1940, in Brooklyn, NY, to Julian Stanley Poyer and Anne Bergeson, and was raised in Bayside, NY.
She is survived by her husband of 61 years, Howard Shaffer; her son David Shaffer and his former wife Linda of Massachusetts, and their children Alexandra, Harrison, and Mitchell; her son Peter Shaffer and his wife Maryanne of Connecticut, and their children Guy Thomas and Victoria Anne; nephews Karl Fornander, Daniel Shaffer, Matthew Shaffer, Joseph Shaffer, and Kyle Shaffer; and niece Kim Fornander Shell.
Mariann was predeceased by her brothers, David and Robert Poyer; her sister, June Poyer Fornander; and her nephew, John Mark Shaffer.
Ricker Funeral Homes & Crematory of New Hampshire assisted the family.
Joseph R. Giroux, 90
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Roderick M. Lynch, 86
NORTHBOROUGH - Joseph R. Giroux, 90 years old, passed away on Monday, September 29, 2025 surrounded by the supportive love his family.
Pépère, as he was affectionately known, was the devoted husband of Constance Giroux for 66 years and the beloved father of six children, Joseph Giroux Jr., and his wife Janet, William Giroux (deceased), Phillip Giroux, Kevin Giroux and his wife Joy, Keith Giroux, and Cindy Drost and her husband Jeffrey. He also was the loving Pépère to his ten grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
Born and raised in Southbridge, Pépère was one of eight children to the late Armand and Amelia Giroux. He is survived by his brothers David and Bernard and his sisters: Dorothy, Constance and Anne. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Edward and Armand Giroux.
Hays Funeral Home of Northborough assisted the family.
Judith W. Hayes, 86
MARLBOROUGH - Judith “Judy” A. (Williams) Hayes, 86, of Marlborough, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 24, 2025 at home. Her husband of 37 years, Brian Joseph Hayes, passed in May 2012.
Judy was raised in Pennsylvania with her two older brothers, David L. and Robert S. Williams, who predeceased her.
Judy is survived by her daughter Linda L. Wood of Marlborough, her son Michael S. Hayes and his wife Hillary of Olney, MD; her 5 grandchildren: Ryan Wood, Justin Wood, Joseph Hayes, Jessica Hayes, and Jillian Hayes as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family and friends.
The Short & Rowe Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted the family.
WESTBOROUGH - Roderick M. Lynch, 86, of Westborough, passed away on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at the UMass/Memorial HealthcareUniversity Hospital.
Born in Westborough, he was the son of the late Edward and Margaret (MacNeil) Lynch. He was raised and educated in Westborough and graduated from Bentley College with a degree in accounting.
He is survived by many cousins and friends. In addition to his parents he was predeceased by his sister, Shirley C. Lynch.
Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted the family.
Christopher L. Jones, 65
HUDSON/MARLBOROUGH
- Christopher Lynn Jones, known lovingly as Chris, Dad, Papa, Pastor Chris, and Friend, passed away on September 26, 2025, in Marlborough, Massachusetts, at the age of 65. His final days were marked by a complicated illness, but he was surrounded by love, prayers, laughter, and family.
Chris is lovingly remembered by his wife, Linda Simpson Jones; his mother, Cathryn Mary Jones; his sister, Melissa Ann Jones; his children, Dylan Beckett Jones and A. Leighton Jones; his daughter-in-law, Maggie Jones; and his cherished grandchildren, Evelyn Jones and Calvin Jones. He joins his father, Lynn Beckett Jones, in eternal rest.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, October 17, 2025, at 3:00 PM at First United Methodist Church of Hudson, 34 Felton Street. A reception will follow. Please dress as you feel comfortable or wear something that reminds you of our beloved Chris.
Arrangements are under the care of Kelly Cremation & Funeral Care of Worcester.
COMMUNITY CLASSIFIED
PRAYER TO ST. JUDE
May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, pray for us. St. Jude, worker of miracles, pray for us. St. Jude, the helper of the hopeless, pray for us. Say this nine times a day, for nine days and your prayers will be answered. It has never been known to fail. Publication is necessary. My prayers were and are being answered.
PRAYER
St. Jude, the helper of the hopeless, pray for us. Say this nine times a day, for nine days and your prayers will be answered. It has never been known to fail. Publication is necessary. My prayers were and are being answered.
-MDH
POLICE FIRE&
‘Great to celebrate the achievements’ Southborough Fire Department honors staff members
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SOUTHBOROUGH — The Southborough Fire Department has plenty to celebrate.
On the morning of Oct. 4, the family and friends of several firefighters gathered at the Fire Station on Cordaville Road for a pinning ceremony meant to recognize several promotions and honors.
“It was great to celebrate the achievements. These promotions come with a lot of work — they come with hours of studying of our department policies, national standards, and rules and regulations. These promotions are very meaningful for these members. Some have worked years and years for today,” Fire Chief Andrew Puntini told the Community Advocate.
Lieutenant Dana Amendola
POLICE LOG
The information in the police log is obtained directly from the official records maintained at each police station in our circulation area. Those arrested are innocent until proven guilty. The Community Advocate will publish news of acquittals upon notification and a copy of court issued documentation. What’s below is a representation of this week’s police log. Some calls lacking severity have been omitted due to space constraints.
Westborough
Monday, Sept. 22
4:13 p.m. Arrested, George Michael Donahue, 49, of 19 Connector Rd., Apt. 330, Westborough, for B&E building nighttime for felony, vandalize property.
Tuesday, Sept. 23
6:01 p.m. Arrested, Lizaenith Cornier Candelaria, 27, of 11 Sever St., Apt. 503, Worcester, on warrant.
Thursday, Sept. 25
9:10 p.m. Arrested, Emanuel Carlos Ortiz, 36, of 295 Turnpike Rd., Apt. 204, Westborough, for assault to intimidate, threat to commit crime to wit murder, bomb/hijack threat/threat concerning the location of dangerous items.
9:45 p.m. Arrested, Caleb Slater, 32, of 33 Regency Ct., Chicopee, on warrant.
Friday, Sept. 26
12:30 p.m. Arrested, Torre D. Jenkins, 51, of 780 Albany St., Boston, on warrants.
Saturday, Sept. 27
and Lieutenant Jason Roach were promoted to the rank of captain. Firefighter Thomas Durkin and Firefighter Zachary Clements were promoted to the rank of lieutenant. Tiffany Martinez, William Kipp, and Logan Donohue earned the rank of firefighter.
Awards were also given out to firefighters celebrating 15
and 20 years with the department.
“That shows the experience the department brings to the community. The community should feel assured that we are coming with highly trained, veteran firefighters to their aid. It’s something for town members to be proud of,” said Puntini.
2:25 a.m. Arrested, William Lozano, 44, of 109 Vernon St., Apt. 2, Worcester, for OUIliquor or .08%, marked lanes violations, negligent operation of motor vehicle, possess open container of alcohol in MV.
10:34 a.m. Arrested, Joshua S. Sweeney, 34, of 24 Rolling Green Dr., Apt. L, Milford, for operate MV with license suspended, fail to signal, passing violation.
Marlborough
Tuesday, Sept. 23
2:21 p.m. Arrested, Gabriel P. Martins, 18, of 319 E Main St., Apt. J3, Marlborough, on true warrant.
4:19 p.m. Arrested, Benjamin Kisija, 22, of 57 Mechanic St., Apt. 7, Marlborough, on true warrant, shoplifting by concealing merchandise.
7:46 p.m. Arrested, Henthony Douglas Pinto Mendes, 23, of 3 Boston Post Road East, Marlborough, on true warrant.
Wednesday, Sept. 24
7:33 a.m. Arrested, Thiago De Souza Silva, 20, of 676 Farm Rd., Apt. 9, Marlborough, on true warrant.
5:13 p.m. Arrested, Jordan Tulio Rodrigues Mato Falcao, 23, of 19 McEnelly St., Apt. 1, Marlborough, on true warrant. Friday, Sept. 26
9:46 p.m. Arrested, Candace S. Carreira, 54, of 39 Old Charter Rd., Marlborough, for OUI-drugs, OUI-liquor or .08%, carry dangerous weapon, unregistered motor vehicle.
Sunday, Sept. 28
12:47 p.m. Arrested, Ronald F. Richard,
59, homeless, for A&B on +60/disabled.
Monday, Sept. 29
10:02 p.m. Arrested, Esvin Rene Gutierrez Lopez, 43, of 17 Cross St., Apt. 1, Marlborough, on true warrant.
Tuesday, Sept. 30
8:38 p.m. Arrested, Lawrence J. Grinkley II, 48, of 154 West Main St., Marlborough, for miscellaneous MV equipment violation, operate MV with license suspended/ revoked, true warrant.
Thursday, Oct. 2
9:39 p.m. Arrested, Gamaliel Jason Negron, 44, of 50 Norwood St., Apt. 2, Marlborough, for unregistered motor vehicle, uninsured motor vehicle, number plate violation to conceal ID, resist arrest, trafficking in cocaine 18 grams or more/ less than 36 grams, possess Class A drug, possess to distribute Class B drug, A&B on police officer.
Southborough
Wednesday, Sept. 3
5:56 p.m. Arrested, Christopher D. Bowman, of Union St., Ashland, for operate MV with license suspended, marked lanes violation.
Saturday, Sept. 6
12:32 a.m. Arrested, Jonathan P. Pimental, of Ivy Ln., Marlborough, for OUI-liquor or .08% 2nd offense, child endangerment while OUI, negligent operation of motor vehicle, unlicensed operation of MV, speeding/rate of speed greater than was reasonable and proper, possess open container of alcohol in MV.
10:08 p.m. Arrested, Jeffrey M. Krueger,
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of Parmenter Rd., Hudson, for OUI-liquor or .08% 2nd offense, negligent operation of motor vehicle, fail to stop/yield.
Sunday, Sept. 7
2:08 a.m. Arrested, Gregory M. Kotsifakis, of Pioneer Trl., Marlborough, for OUI-liquor or .08%, marked lanes violation.
Tuesday, Sept. 9
9:10 p.m. Arrested, Carter D. Hastings, Raymond Ave., Shrewsbury, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, fail to stop/yield.
Friday, Sept. 12
8:55 p.m. Arrested, Brandon D. Cruz Gonzalez, of Grove St., Westborough, for OUI-liquor or .08%, marked lanes violation, possess open container of alcohol in MV, negligent operation of motor vehicle, MV lights violation.
Sunday, Sept. 14
1:30 a.m. Arrested, Wallace P. Silva, of Paul St., Framingham, for OUI-liquor or .08%, MV lights violation, no inspection sticker.
Monday, Sept. 15
1:36 a.m. Arrested, Denis R. Poma Saldana, of Cedar St., Framingham, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, marked lanes violation, speeding/rate of speed exceeding posted limit.
Northborough
Friday, Sept. 26
11:23 p.m. Arrested, Ludy R. Ramos Teo, 41, of 589 Bigelow St., Marlborough, for negligent operation of motor vehicle,
OUI-liquor or .08% 2nd offense, marked lanes violation, use electronic device while operating MV 1st offense.
Saturday, Sept. 27
9:47 p.m. Arrested, Kenneth Hall, 56, of 112 Donald J. Lynch Blvd., Northborough, for negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08% 2nd offense, possess open container of alcohol in MV.
Monday, Sept. 29
9:19 a.m. Arrested, Joseph Christopher Lefebvre, 60, of 41 Robbins St., Lowell, for operate MV with license revoked as HTO (criminal), warrant/delay service of.
Tuesday, Sept. 30
1:23 a.m. Arrested, Taryn Marie Field, 35, of 500 Bigelow St., Marlborough, for negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08% 2nd offense, possess open container of alcohol in MV, marked lanes violation.
Shrewsbury
Monday, Sept. 29
4:04 p.m. Arrested, Russell A. Houle, 74, of 221 Lake Ave. N, Worcester, for operate MV with license suspended for OUI, no inspection sticker.
Thursday, Oct. 2
9:41 p.m. Arrested, Jefferson Neto Pereira, 34, of 139 Mount Vernon St., Fitchburg, for OUI liquor 2nd offense, unlicensed operation of MV.
Check the Community Advocate website for complete logs.
COMMUNITY SPORTS
Youngblood dominant as Grafton defeats Shrewsbury
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – Two years ago, Zeeland Youngblood was still adjusting to life in Massachusetts. A Texas native from the city of Texarkana, his move to Grafton meant learning new streets, new faces, and a new football culture.
“It’s taught me a lot of things. It’s taught me how to persevere, be reactive to change,” said Youngblood. “And the weather is also pretty nice. You get all four seasons here in Massachusetts, and in Texas, you just get the summer really.”
On Oct. 4, there was no doubt where Youngblood belonged. With over 150 rushing yards, a touchdown, and an interception, the senior captain helped Grafton top host Shrewsbury, 24-7, to give the Gators their fifth consecutive win over their Route 140 rival. Seasons change. The Gators’ winning ways don’t.
“It feels great. I’m just happy for the kids, because they work very hard. It’s nice for them to see their hard work pay off, because that’s what you want in life. If you work hard, you should be rewarded,” said Head Coach Wayne Page, in his first year leading the Gators.
All the work and preparation didn’t happen overnight. For athletes like Youngblood and quarterback Sean Griffin, it started the day after last season ended. Beating Shrewsbury was just the visible part of a much longer process: the 5 a.m. lifts, the quiet mornings, the offseason no one sees.
“Me and this guy Sean Griffin, we put in countless hours,” Youngblood told the Community Advocate. “Before workouts, 7:45 a.m., and we were here last year at 5 a.m. before school, staying after school. This doesn’t just come out of nowhere. It paid off today. It’s all just coming together.”
Added Page: “Zeeland is a phenomenal person. He works ridiculously hard. He’s working 12 months out of the year, day after day. The day after the season ended last year, he was back in the weight room. He’s at the field at 7 a.m. when
most kids are sleeping in. He’s a leader, he’s a captain for us, and he leads by example. He’s a tremendous kid.”
The work paid off immediately against Shrewsbury. After Youngblood powered the team down the field, Griffin’s 18-yard touchdown toss to Jonathan Foltz put the Gators ahead. After Shrewsbury returned the kickoff to tie the game, Youngblood got right back to work, rushing for a 3-yard score.
The defense managed to thwart the Shrewsbury offense each drive. A 29-yard field goal by Ryan Davis and a 6-yard touchdown catch by Christian DeJesus accounted for the rest of Grafton’s points.
The Gators made it look easy. But it wasn’t always that way this season.
With a new coach and a new-look team, Grafton came
out flat in its first game, dropping a lopsided 35-13 contest to Ashland. It was the first time many of the team’s student-athletes got varsity action, and it ended in a blowout. Two weeks later, the Gators dropped a close game against Saint John’s to move to 0-2.
But, after working all offseason, the Gators rebounded quickly. After a scrappy win against Tantasqua, the showing against Shrewsbury was the dominant victory Grafton had wanted — needed, even — following the difficult start.
It was all done in front of a crowd of Grafton fans in holiday garb.
Christmas came early for the Gators.
“It’s the work-ethic of the kids. We have a great coaching staff. The support staff, the
school, and it’s the mentality of the kids — we don’t quit. We’re putting in work, and we’re getting there,” said Page. Added Griffin: “In my four years here, I’ve never lost to Shrewsbury, and I think that’s
something to be proud of.
That’s the coaches, the culture here. That’s the lifting, practice, everything.”
“Grafton football is here to stay, and it’s going to thrive for years to come.”
Grafton fired on all cylinders last weekend, defeating Shrewsbury. (Photos/Evan Walsh)
‘We pick each other up’ Amid undefeated season, Westborough field hockey’s defense shines
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
WESTBOROUGH – They don’t panic, they don’t point fingers — they defend.
And recently, the Westborough field hockey team has done that better than just about anyone. The Rangers remain undefeated (9-0-1) midway through the season, and the team’s sturdy defense is a major reason why. Over the first 10 games, Westborough has posted five shutouts. Opponents average less than one goal per game.
“I think they’re just really communicating. They’re coming together and working as a unit, rather than one person doing everything. Our goalie is really stepping it up. They’re all working together,” said Head Coach Michelle Lamb. “We know it’s a team sport. It’s not about who scores — we’re focused on getting the win. We’re doing it all together.”
Togetherness is indeed the key to the Rangers’ success. Samantha Kelley, a four-year varsity player committed to play Division 2 field hockey at Belmont Abbey College, leads the group as senior captain. Anna Ellis, Lilly Reitsma, and Callie Meggison have thrived in their roles.
But it’s never about any player individually. The West-
borough defense operates as a unit.
“I feel like we pick each other up. If there’s a goal scored, we don’t blame each other. We really communicate on the field,” said Kelley. “To be undefeated? It feels amazing.”
Added Reitsma: “It’s about my teammates. We critique each other, but in the nicest way possible. If I feel like I did bad, they’ll pick me up. If it ever gets past me — Callie is there, Anna’s always there. It’s really never just a 1-on-1.”
Then there’s the goalie, junior Raegan Mullen. A firstyear varsity starter, Mullen has been a force for Westborough, instilling a sense of confidence in her teammates. Even in the most stressful moments — defending penalty corners at the end of quarters — positivity circulates.
“We always work together well. If someone gets beat, someone will pick them up. If there’s a goal scored, my teammates are there to cheer me up, make sure I’m not getting
in my head. It’s really helpful,” Mullen told the Community Advocate.
That unrelenting positivity and communication creates a feedback loop.
“Raegan also helps us. She’s really good about communicating where the ball is,” said Ellis. “We’ve got a good system. We all really support each other.”
The fantastic goals get most of the headlines in field hock-
ey — and Westborough has plenty of capable goal-scorers, too — but the Rangers are just as comfortable letting their defense do the talking as they continue their historic season. “We all work together so much. It’s a team sport. It’s such a team. Sure, people who get goals get credit, but you have to remember that we all work together,” said Meggison. “Everyone is good at staying positive.”
Westborough field hockey’s defense has helped the team to an undefeated start. (Photos/Owen Jones)
Lauren Albertson helps Shrewsbury volleyball top Westborough
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – When senior captain Lauren Albertson took a spiked volleyball to the face midway through the third set, she popped right back up, went to the bench, stuck a cotton ball in her right nostril, and got back to work.
“To be honest, all I could think about was playing for my team,” Albertson remembered.
And, as fate would have it, it was Albertson who helped close the game out, serving the final point of Shrewsbury volleyball’s convincing straightset win over host Westborough. As soon as the point was over, Albertson and her teammates crumpled to the floor in celebration.
“I don’t care what happens — I could literally lose a limb — I’ll do anything to keep playing with my team,” Albertson told the Community Advocate. “I play hockey, so I know how to tough it out. I’ve been hit a lot harder than that.”
Said Shrewsbury Head Coach Brett Crandall: “Lauren is just a phenomenal athlete and she really cares about her teammates. If you see her on the court, she’s always trying to make sure everyone is ready to go. She’s keeping everybody up and focused. She’s a really great leader of this volleyball team.”
The three-set win (26-24, 25-9, 25-20) against Westborough — an incredible team in its own right that has won Division 2 the last three years — officially clinched a state tournament berth for Shrewsbury. The victory pushed the team’s record to a perfect 10-0.
The Colonials have been great in past years, but they
are reaching a new level of excellence.
“We try to stay focused on the next game and the next goal, so I go back and I look at the record, and I’m like, ‘Wow.’
I think 10-0 is unbelievable: 5-0 in-conference, we’ve never been here before in my tenure. I’m just so proud of how hard the girls are working. They always show up ready to play,” said Crandall.
And players know they have something special.
“It feels great. We have a whole list of goals, and this was the top of the list. To be able to knock it off right away is super exciting for us. It feels like a weight lifted off our shoulders, there’s way less pressure now,” said Erin Boulay, the team’s junior libero.
Perhaps more impressive for the Colonials, the team has had to fight for just about every win: Two of the team’s
first three victories were fivesetters, and the team’s schedule is packed with contenders, something Crandall hopes will get the team in gear for a playoff run.
Whether far ahead or trailing behind, Shrewsbury has shown it can keep its composure in the biggest moments. Credit that to the team’s senior leadership, which includes captains Anna St. Cyr, Claire Troy, Gracie Hester, and Albertson.
“We’ve learned from last year, we don’t let the little things get to us. In the first set we were down by five points at one point, and we didn’t even care. We knew we could come back. We know one point isn’t the end of the world, and so our energy is high, no matter what,” said Albertson.
“Everyone is contributing. Everyone is putting forth their best effort.”
Lauren Albertson (right photo) was central to Shrewsbury’s efforts in a win over Westborough. (Photo/Evan Walsh)
