Beal Commons clears final hurdle; project allowed to begin construction
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – On April 13, 2023, the Planning Board approved plans for Beal Commons. After months of litigation, a multi-month extension, and 915 days since initial approval, the Select Board officially took final action on Oct. 14 that allows the project to go forward.
By a 4-1 vote, the board signed the deed and other closing documents to transfer the ownership of 1-7 Maple Avenue to Civico Development. With the move, Civico faces no barrier to build Beal Commons – a mixed-use 53-unit development that includes 7,000 square feet of retail space on the first floor.
The site – directly in Shrewsbury Center – is the former home of Maj. Howard W. Beal School, which educated students for a century. After Shrewsbury voters approved a new Beal School in 2018, the old, brick building became obsolete. Starting in 2017, the town looked for possible opportunities to use the space: Civico was the lone bidder to an RFP, and reached an agreement to purchase the 3.86-acre property for $250,000.
It became the talk of the town. The Planning Board ultimately approved the plans for Beal Commons, 4-1, in April 2023. Neighbors took the project to court, but in January 2025, the Massachusetts Land Court dismissed the challenge, affirming the Planning Board’s decision.
There was just one hiccup: A litigation process that lasted almost two years complicated plans for Civico. Taylor Bearden, a partner at Civico who spoke before the Select Board at an Aug. 12 meeting, said the “market Beal | 11
‘I just absolutely fell in love with this town’
Allison Lane celebrates 25 years in recreation
Allison Lane is celebrating a quarter-century in recreation.
By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter
NORTHBOROUGH – For Northborough Recreation Director Allison Lane, it’s all about having fun.
This year, Lane is celebrating 25 years working in recreation in Central Massachusetts.
A career dating back to high school Lane’s career in recreation dates back to when she was a freshman in high school. She had just moved to Wayland and wanted a part-time job that would allow her to walk to the lake. An avid swimmer, she loved being in the water whenever she could.
She worked at the Wayland Parks and
Recreation Department through high school and college, teaching swimming lessons and eventually becoming a lifeguard. Today, she still teaches private swim lessons for people who have experienced water trauma.
After graduating with a degree in Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Studies from Springfield College in 1999, she kickstarted her career as the assistant recreation director in Westborough. After less than a year, she noticed a director vacancy at the Northborough Recreation Department.
In her early twenties, Lane applied for the job, admitting she really just wanted the interview experience.
“I kind of thought it would be a real long shot for me to get a director posi-
COMMUNITY NEWS
Neary students donate Halloween candy to military members
By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter
SOUTHBOROUGH — Students at Southborough’s Neary Elementary School have been donating their Halloween candy to active duty military members since 2004 under the guidance of fifthgrade teacher Jennifer Turieo.
This year, the annual tradition is hitting closer to home.
Ricky Scott, a member of the Coast Guard, and Evangelos Baltas, a special operations officer for the Navy, are two of the military members that will receive some of this year’s donations. Both Scott and Baltas are from Southborough and donated their own candy during their time at Neary.
“It’s kind of come full circle,” Turieo said. “Who would think that you would do a project long enough that you would end up donating to kids in your own class?”
Turieo began organizing the donations shortly after the Iraq War began in 2003.
“This is what I would say to the kids, ‘If you’re in the middle of the desert, you can’t just run to CVS and get some candy,’” she said.
Through the donations, Turieo said kids are able to learn what it means to give up something of their own for someone else. While Neary and other schools in Northborough and Southborough often run food drives, those donations are often provided by parents.
Halloween candy, however, is precious currency for elementary school students.
“It was their candy, and so it was their donation. They’re giving something up, but it wasn’t more expensive than just smiling at somebody,” Turieo said.
For years, Turieo and Neary
students sent around 75 boxes stuffed with candy to 50 service members overseas.
In return, military members would send letters and photos thanking the students for their donation. In addition to thank yous, the letters told stories of how soldiers would fill their pockets with candy and give it out to children where they were stationed.
“Over the years, the candy wasn’t necessarily just for the soldiers. They were sharing it, and I think that really made the kids sort of think twice about, OK, what’s going to happen to this candy?” Turieo said.
As time went on and the number of active duty soldiers overseas lessened, Turieo began donating to Rise Above, a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that provides care packages for children in foster care and young adults who had
recently aged out of the foster care system.
This year, in addition to Scott and Baltas, candy will be donated to the father of a fourth-grade student who is stationed in Europe. Turieo said she is still looking for other service members to donate to.
For Turieo, the impact on both her former and current students is undeniable.
“I think a message that all kids need to know is that little acts of kindness mean a lot. You don’t think it does, but it really can brighten somebody’s day,” she said.
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By Leighah Beausoleil Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – Almost a year after the closure of Sabatini’s Restaurant & Pizzeria, a new business is looking to take over 31 South Street in Westborough.
Ram Adhikari of Bedford, New Hampshire and his two partners will be opening a 76seat Italian restaurant, which will be known as Napoli’s Restaurant & Bar.
Over the last four to five months, Adhikari said the business has been working on a few renovations, including fitting in a new bar and the installation of a 2,000 gallon grease trap –both of which did not exist on
the property previously.
With work still well underway, he said the business does not have a set opening day. He’s hoping for early next year in January or February.
The building is leased for five years with the opportunity to extend it every five years. The business will employ about six, according to Adhikari. Customers can expect pasta, pizza, burgers, french fries, and more.
“This place is new for us,” Adhikari said, noting he expects it to be similar to Sabatini’s. “A little bit of change – not too much change.”
Additionally, he highlighted the buzz he has already been getting from those excited to see it open: “So many people are asking for us.”
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Algonquin students required to take language classes, extra year of math
By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter
NORTHBOROUGH – Algonquin Regional High School will be adjusting its graduation requirements in the fall, impacting the Class of 2030 and beyond.
The changes include increasing credit requirements
for mathematics, world language, and performing arts classes. The changes — which will not require students to take more total credits than under the current system — will bring the high school in alignment with state recommendations.
Under the state’s MassCore graduation requirements,
students must take four years of English, four years of math, three years of lab-based science, three years of history, two years of the same world language, one year of arts, and five additional “core” courses.
Currently, Algonquin students are required to take three years of math and a half-year of arts, and they are
not required to take a world language course. According to Algonquin
Principal Sean Bevan, about 90 percent of students take four years of math, and the same percentage take world language classes. Less than half of students take at least one year of arts classes.
“That does not mean that we are a substandard school. Our students are … taking lots of other electives that simply don’t contribute to a series of classes that comprise the MassCore requirements,” Bevan said.
To fit a world language into the schedule, students will no longer be required to take a digital literacy (computer science) course. Computer science classes would count toward the mathematics requirement, Bevan said.
According to Bevan, the new requirements will give students, including those with specialized needs, a greater choice in classes starting their freshman year and will give Algonquin diplomas a “higher level of achievement.” Bringing Algonquin into alignment with state recommendations will also open the door for grant eligibility from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, he added.
The changes were approved during the Oct. 15 Northborough/Southborough School Committee meeting. Some members brought up concerns over increased academic rigor impacting student achievement.
Others countered that in a world where artificial intelligence is consistently evolving and taking on a larger part of the technological world, rigor is “necessary.”
Madison Nicosia, a representative from the Algonquin Student Advisory Council, said many of the students already plan to take additional math and language courses based on requirements from colleges and universities.
“They don’t mind having that increased rigor because that’s what they were planning to take anyway,” Nicosia said.
Maironis Park has been a Lake Quinsigamond landmark in Shrewsbury
By Michael Perna Jr. History Columnist
SHREWSBURY – In 1923, a group of Lithuanians from Worcester purchased part of what had been known as the Bigelow Estate. Located on the eastern shore of Lake Quinsigamond, just south of Route 9, the Bigelow Estate had been owned by the family of Horace Holly (H. H.) Bigelow.
H. H. Bigelow was a wealthy industrialist who went on to develop the area around Lake Quinsigamond. In addition to promoting tourism at the “Lake,” he was the owner of White City Amusement Park, which opened in 1905 adjacent to the Bigelow Estate. His elaborate mansion stood just south of the amusement park. Buildings next door to the mansion were owned by his son, Irving. These buildings were used as club facilities by the Lithuanian group. The Bigelow mansion itself was destroyed in a huge fire in the 1950s.
The Lithuanian people named the property Maironis Park and used it for outings. The name came from a famous Lithuanian poet (who was also a Catholic priest) named Jonas Maciulis, whose pen name was Maironis.
In 1929, the property was sold again, this time to the Lithuanian Charitable Society, for $25,000. The clubhouse itself underwent several updates and renovations over the years. In 1973, it was undergo-
ing another upgrade when a huge fire destroyed the club on Christmas Eve.
In addition to destroying the club building, the fire almost resulted in another disaster. In the course of fighting the fire, Shrewsbury firefighter Dennis Leroux narrowly escaped serious injury or death when the ladder truck he was standing on started to lean over and collapse into the fire. Luckily, he was able to descend
the ladder before it completely collapsed into the blaze. The house next door wasn’t damaged by the fire.
The club building itself was rebuilt. It reopened in December of 1974 and has been in constant use as a banquet facility as well. As an example, this columnist’s wedding reception was held there in 1980.
One amusing incident in the history of Maironis Park was related by John Cumming
(1915-2010), who had grown up close by Lake Quinsigamond, in a 1998 letter describing life in the area at that time:
“On Sundays we used to go over to Maironis Park to dance the polka. They started the music after lunch and kept on until eleven o’clock. … One Sunday, my Lithuanian friends told me that if the priest ever came up to question me, I should say Pahbuchalk mon inshookna and Iken packla. That’s my phonetic rendition of it.
One Sunday evening a young priest tapped me on the shoulder while I was dancing and said something in Lithuanian. I smiled and uttered the words my friends had given me. The priest looked shocked, then he broke into a grin as he noticed my friends breaking up with laughter. He told me that I should take another lesson. I had told him to kiss my a__ and go to hell!”
Who remembers Sam’s Bakery? A sweet Shrewsbury icon
By Michael Perna Jr. History Columnist
SHREWSBURY – The Fairlawn Shopping Plaza, located at the intersection of Route 9 and Maple Avenue, opened with great fanfare in 1958 – it was one of the first “shopping
plazas” in the entire area. A photograph taken during the grand opening shows a packed parking lot and strings of banners flying over the stores. King’s Department Store, a bank, Donovan’s Ice Cream Shop, the Wayside Bar, Putnam’s Card and Gifts, World
Pants, and several other small businesses occupied the plaza at that time
Another one of those businesses was Sam’s Bakery. Sam’s was located at the southwest corner of the plaza, close to Route 9. It quickly became known as a local favorite due to its delicious cakes, cookies, and other baked goods.
The bakery itself would produce cakes for special occasions, such as weddings or birthdays. One (not-so-amusing at the time, but amusing now) story involves when this columnist and his wife, Sandy, got married. The wedding cake had been carefully picked out at Sam’s Bakery, due to its reputation and the bakery being a personal favorite at the time. The cake was paid for in advance. On the day of the wedding, the cake was delivered to the wedding reception hall.
The delivery driver then
stated: “The owner wants payment for the cake.” It was explained that we had already paid for the cake, but the driver insisted: “If you don’t pay for it, I’ll have to take it back to the bakery.” Luckily, my father entered the conversation – he whipped out his wallet and pulled a $100 bill out, handing it to the driver and saying, “We will straighten this out later.” The $100 was later refunded when the bakery checked its records.
Sam’s Bakery continued on in business until the Fairlawn Plaza underwent several changes in the 1990s. King’s Department Store had been replaced by a Big D Supermarket and most of the original businesses were long gone also. Today, the Fairlawn Plaza has been modernized and is now known as the Marketplace Plaza. In fact, the plaza is currently undergoing expansion on one side of the complex to allow even more retail space.
Maironis Park, a Lithuanian social club on the shores of Lake Quinsigamond in Shrewsbury, has endured for over a century and is now also a banquet facility.
(Photo/Courtesy)
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When Bad Things Happen in Good Houses: What Needs To Be Disclosed?
By Jennifer Juliano
If walls could speak, they’d have so much tea to spill. Heads up, this article covers some heavy, albeit important, info regarding the disclosures of unfortunate events. Houses-turned-homes provide shelter and comfort; they’re also the setting for countless memories. While we celebrate births, graduations, promotions, weddings, and other achievements, sometimes darker instances occur. For some, knowing them is a non-starter if they were looking to purchase a particular house; conversely, others, who, for their own reasons, don’t give it a second thought.
Often it’s unfortunate yet as common as an occupant who passed away peacefully, an accident, or chose to be at home after an illness. Other times, it’s a more unexpected event, such as an altercation, a taking of one’s own Life, or a murder. If the house is sold, what needs to be communicated from the sellers’ end?
According to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 93, section 114, which discusses Real Estate disclosure for alleged haunted homes, murder, and suicide:
“The fact or suspicion that real property may be or is psychologically impacted shall not be deemed to be a material fact required to be disclosed in a real estate transaction. Psychologically impacted” shall mean an impact being the result of facts or suspicions, including, but not limited to, the following:
(a) that an occupant of real property is now or has been suspected to be infected with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus or with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome or any other disease which reasonable medical evidence suggests to be highly unlikely to be transmitted through the occupying of a dwelling;
(b) that the real property was the site of a felony, suicide, or homicide; and (c) that the real property has been the site of an alleged parapsychological or supernatural phenomenon.
No cause of action shall arise or be maintained against a seller or lessor of real property or a real estate broker or salesman, by statute or at common law, for failure to disclose to a buyer or tenant that the real property is or was psychologically impacted.
Now, if a buyer or an agent asks the seller or their agent if anything of the sort has happened in the property, they must answer truthfully to what they know. Time fades memories and owners change, so it’s essential to communicate the correct details about the house if asked. I’ve sold property that was simply on the same street where, decades ago, a highly publicized tragedy happened. Even some locals asked, “Is it THAT house?” The answer was with 100% certainty, no. Believe you me, I checked beforehand as well, as I wanted to get ahead of that possible question.
I’ve also run into this personally. A house in Dover, where one of my closest friends lived, was where her now-imprisoned husband took her life. I did not list the property, but I knew the agent was proactive in telling prospective buyers about it. Although he did not need to, I could get behind it, even though I wished it had not been listed “off-market” for other reasons. Imagine being the new owners of a beautiful house, only to find out from neighbors or YouTubers doing YouTube things that your new home was the site of a publicized tragedy?
Many years ago, I received a call from a buyer eager to see a property in a neighboring town, asking why it was at such an unbelievable price. When I looked it up, I recognized the property from recent news and shared the info. He was okay with it, but his wife was not. They appreciated the transparency, and time and frustration was saved. No one is going to know every house’s personal history, and, it’s not the house’s fault. We live in an area where houses can be hundreds of years old, and even house age doesn’t dictate what events can happen there. Although we cannot change history, each house and its occupants deserve a fresh beginning.
Organ donation firm buys DCU office space for $4.3 million
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
MARLBOROUGH – Digital Federal Credit Union sold one of its Marlborough office buildings on Oct. 6, transferring 220 Donald Lynch Boulevard to New England Donor Services Inc. for $4.3 million, according to the Southern Middlesex Registry of Deeds.
The 81,169-square-foot building, built on a 5.8-acre lot, was constructed in 1987. The building was assessed at $7.026 million in 2025, according to Marlborough assessor’s records. It was last sold in 2001 for $12 million, according to GIS records.
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Award-winning Elvis tribute artist performs in Northborough
By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter
NORTHBOROUGH – The Northborough Senior Center got groovy late last month with award-winning Elvis Presley tribute artist Dan Fontaine.
Fontaine performed at the center on Sept. 30, bringing with him an expansive rep -
ertoire of Elvis music. He has won multiple awards in Elvis competitions including 1st Place Champion at the Georgia Tribute Festival 2024, 1st Place winner of the 2023 Blind Elvis Vocal Contest, and Grand Champion of the 2021 Reflections of the King competition. The idea of bringing Elvis to Northborough was born after some members of the Friends
of the Northborough Senior Center Board of Directors saw Fontaine perform. Inviting him to the center was a no-brainer.
“It was a great show,” said the Friends’ Communication Coordinator Vin Femia.
The center served an “Elvis themed” dinner, including fried chicken, potato salad, and peanut butter and banana sandwiches.
and donor families who have generously made the decision to give the gift of life.”
The sale comes after DCU merged with First Tech Federal Credit Union, becoming equals “for the benefit of members, employees, and communities.” Following completion of the merger, “which is subject to approval from
the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) and First Tech’s membership, the new entity will emerge as a $28.7 billion credit union serving nearly two million members with more than 50 branches in eight states,” according to a release.
By Leighah Beausoleil Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH – Westborough is redistricting its public elementary schools.
The process began on Wednesday, Oct. 8, as Nick Stellitano, managing director and co-founder of Dillinger Research and Applied Data, announced the commencement of his research, presenting his course of action to the School Committee.
He said he intends to have several options for the district to choose from by the end of January.
The goal of the redistricting is to better utilize the space at Fales Elementary, Westborough’s newest and lowest-enrolled school, and promote long-term stability and equitable class sizes across the school system.
This year, Armstrong Elementary has the highest enrollment with 386 students, while Hastings Elementary has 322 and Fales sits at 284.
Stellitano will begin the
process with a demographic analysis of the town in order to get an understanding of how it’s changing in terms of the make-up of the students, enrollment, and future devel opment.
Like the rest of Massachu setts, Westborough’s enroll ment has continued to decline over the years. Superinten dent Allison Borchers said that there are only 3,641 students enrolled this year, when the district projected more than 3,700. Last year’s enrollment was 3,848.
Stellitano will also be col lecting input from a wide range of stakeholders through focus groups, interviews, and surveys.
In addition to meeting with the School Committee month ly to provide updates, he will put together a steering committee, host a district-wide meeting, and hold at least one meeting per elementary school. He noted he would like to have a virtual option as well.
qualitative. … But a lot of it comes down to the community members and their feedback and how they are perceiving this process,” Stellitano said.
“A lot of this work is going
After collecting all the data and input, Stellitano will de-
ment them and best support parents, staff, and students through the process.
While the factors affecting the redistricting will be unique to the town, he said some districts have put emphasis on bus routes and the
to say [that] we are not coming with the answer, we are coming to help you find the answer, because at the end of the day, that answer has to be good for you all, the School Committee, your students, and families,” Stellitano said.
This 300-unit development may rehabilitate a Shrewsbury park
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – This new proposed development may involve a park refresh.
On Sept. 29, Hinghambased Saxon Partners discussed rehabilitating a park in the northwest corner of Shrewsbury before the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA). Saxon Partners is seeking to construct a 300-unit 40B multifamily rental development at 104 Main Street, a 5.8-acre parcel wedged between North Quinsigamond Avenue, Main Street, and Interstate 290.
The 300 units would include 19 studios, 173 one-bedroom units, 78 two-bedroom units, and 30 three-bedroom units, with roughly 350,000 square feet of space. The site, currently used for industrial storage, would include 471 total parking spaces with a four-story parking garage.
The development would be an expected $100 million
investment.
Gauch Park, located across the street from Saxon Partners’ proposed development, is a quarter-acre park along Lake Quinsigamond owned by the town. Though some like the park the way that it is, the park lacks amenities and shows signs of wear and tear.
The project at 104 Main Street is not a “friendly 40B,”
meaning Saxon Partners is not working with the town in an effort to make the project mutually beneficial, instead leveraging the provisions of Chapter 40B to construct the housing. However, the developer said it will work with the town to rehabilitate Gauch Park, likely to make the area attractive to potential tenants.
At the Sept. 29 meeting, Saxon Partners said it workshopped several different park plans, some including constructing buildings and picnic tables at the site. The plan the developer eventually landed on includes several proposed improvements.
“We really tried to troubleshoot it so that it became truly a great park without any nui-
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sance value. When you look at the plan, you’ll see what we’re doing,” said Saxon Partners Managing Director David Calhoun, a Saint John’s graduate. According to plans, gravel will be recompacted, and an area will be paved with pervious material. The wooden guardrails — which Calhoun said only block people from entering the park easily — will be replaced with a granite curb. All vegetation and grass would be stripped, eventually replaced with “higherperforming” varieties. Instead of benches, granite blocks would serve as places to sit.
“As soon as you start to put different features, they become vandalism targets, skateboarding targets. We tried to make the park as durable as we could,” said Calhoun.
The plans also include a new sidewalk. No water or power would be needed at the site, and the developer would take care of maintenance.
Westborough Office Space
Allison Lane celebrates 25 years in Central Mass. recreation
tion,” she recalled. She interviewed and was called back for the second one with the town administrator. Soon after, she was offered the position.
“I was really surprised, but very excited,” Lane said. She officially started as the recreation director in March 2002.
A department 20 years in the making When she first started, Lane was the sole employee of the Northborough Recreation Department. Today, Lane has two full-time employees that work with her to bring the department’s long list of programs to fruition.
From new playgrounds at Ellsworth McAfee Park and Assabet Park to the dog park on Boundary Street, Lane has jumped at the chance to build a better Northborough.
She’s also expanded programming. In the early 2000s,
all of the recreation programming could fit into a small four-page pamphlet. Now, its brochure stretches to over 30 pages of programs for all ages, from its annual summer camp to a basketball league.
The thought of building a department from the ground up would be daunting to many. But for Lane, it was the dream.
“I like being able to be creative and come up with an idea and then watch it come to fruition. To me, that is super exciting,” Lane said.
At the beginning, Lane heavily relied on her experience in Westborough, where she worked under longtime recreation director Frank DeSiata, who retired in 2014. She also built relationships with
Beal Commons clears final hurdle
Beal | from page 1
had evolved” and Civico had to “start at zero” and reprice the project to ensure Beal Commons was still a viable development.
“This has been a very protracted process where members of the town, our development team, neighbors, and others have been involved with the project in some way, shape, or form for many years now. We all went through almost 23 months of litigation, and during that time, the Planning Board process was essentially reevaluated and affirmed,” said Bearden.
With 5-of-6 pre-closing conditions satisfied by Civico, the Select Board voted, 4-1, to offer the developer a 60-day extension to provide financial documents to show it had the funding to proceed. By the Oct. 14 meeting, the documents were complete, town leaders said.
“From the time of that last meeting, we’ve received a loan commitment letter from a bank that’s been signed off on. … This being the last meeting before [the closure deadline of Oct. 21], and now that they are in a position that
they have provided all documentation in order to close, I’d ask the board to authorize me to sign off on the deed,” said Town Manager Kevin Mizikar.
As he did on Aug. 12, Select Board member Gregg Richards, the lone dissenter, questioned on Oct. 14 whether Civico met the requirements needed to close on the property. He pointed to missed deadlines and a pattern of Civico not respecting prior agreements.
“We, as a board, did not receive documentation until after 5 p.m. today – two hours to digest the information relating to essentially the prime property in our Town Center District for the remainder of time. I don’t think that’s the
partnership we’re looking for, when we’re given such little time to digest what we’re supposed to be reviewing,” said Richards.
“I’m not thrilled with the way this deal is finalized,” he added.
“I think that’s really fair,” said Select Board Chair Theresa Flynn. “I’ll speak for myself – I agree 100 percent on that. They’ve met the requirements; they haven’t necessarily met their word on when they were going to provide things. … Did they do it in the timeline we would’ve expected? No. But did they meet the requirements? Yes.”
Should Civico not commence construction within one year, the land goes back to the town.
I would love to just keep growing this community as much as I can. “ “
local businesses in Northborough to help sponsor programs she wanted to get off the ground.
“That’s really how we got it started, we just started out by cold-calling and knocking on doors and asking companies and businesses if they were interested in working with us and just building the program from there,” Lane said.
Today, Lane said the department, located in the basement of Town Hall, is hoping to grow in the future and move into a dedicated community center for the town. While there’s no timeline for the community center quite yet, Lane said expanding the department is at top of mind.
“Everybody walks into the doors here to do something that they want to do,” she said.
“I always tell everybody in the Town Hall that we’re the fun department, and it’s one of the reasons I’ve been here for so long,” she added.
Falling in love in Northborough — literally For Lane, her job wouldn’t be the same anywhere else.
“I love what I do here. I would love to retire here. I would love to just keep growing this community as much as I can,” she said.
Lane graduated with a master’s degree in Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services from Suffolk University in 2004.
Just a few years into the start of her career in recreation, she had a choice to make.
She could leave and dive into mental health counseling — a subject she says she is still passionate about today — or stay and continue to grow the Northborough Recreation Department.
“I just absolutely fell in love with this town,” Lane said. “It’s just been a community that has given back to me as much as I hope I have given to them.”
And so she stayed, excitedly continuing to grow the department’s programming. She married a Northborough native, who also works for the town, and said she even gets to use her degree to help navigate her ongoing work with the public and town officials.
This year, Lane helped put on Northborough’s first Bollywood concert and is working on securing funding to build permanent bathrooms in Ellsworth McAfee Park. Kids in the department’s summer camp had the chance to meet University of Connecticut basketball star Alex Karaban, a Southborough native. She said she isn’t ever satisfied with keeping things as they are. There’s always room to grow.
“I strive every year to try and bring new programming and to build a department here and make it better than it was the year before,” she said.
Local organization wins top prize for Applefest float
By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter
NORTHBOROUGH – The Northborough Junior Woman’s Club (NJWC) claimed a top prize for the Applefest parade.
The NJWC was awarded first place for “Best Participation” in the annual parade. The organization’s float depicted a birthday cake to celebrate its 50-year anniversary.
“We’re certainly proud of the work we do in town. Sometimes I think we’re the bestkept secret,” NJWC President Martha Michalewich said. “I
think that the more we can get our name out there, and people can know what we do, and for the town, the better it is. And the float was one of the ways we thought we could make a big splash.”
Daisies covered the float, which members built the day before at the U-Haul garage on Bearfoot Road. According to Michalewich, the club is represented by the flowers because “daisies never grow alone.”
“It’s more than community service. It’s what we do for each other, and we’re here for each other,” she said. The float also
depicted signs with some of the organization’s prominent events and milestones, such as the STEM Conference for middle school girls and the founding of the EllsworthMcAfee Park on Route 135.
The float was coordinated and built by friends, husbands, and some of the members of the NJWC, Michalewich said.
“I think it speaks volumes to who we are and what we are,” she said. “We want to do community service. That’s our mission, but we also want to feel good about working with each other.”
WESTBOROUGH – Join the American Legion and VFW for the annual Poppy Drive, which raises funds for veterans in need of support.
Stop at any of the following locations in Westborough on Nov. 1 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.:
Stop & Shop, Roche Brothers, Lowe’s, and the Big Y parking lot.
Additionally, the Westborough Veterans Advisory Board is teaming up with the school department and American Legion for its annual clothing and
toiletry drive this November. This drive is meant to benefit homeless veterans.
The most needed items are new socks, new winter hats and gloves, new winter clothing in adult sizes, new clothes in adult sizes, used winter
clothing in adult sizes, and toiletries, including shampoo, toothpaste, razors, soap, toothbrushes, and deodorant.
Items can be dropped off from Nov. 10 to Nov. 20 at all public schools in Westborough, the Westborough Public
Library, the Senior Center, the Forbes Municipal Building, the Fire Station, Town Hall, and Post 22.
All items collected will be donated to Veterans Inc., the regional agency supporting and serving veterans.
This gorgeous float won a prize in Northborough.
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
GRAFTON – Ready to go metal detecting ? Grafton’s town government may provide more clarity.
On Oct. 6, the Select Board considered adopting a policy that’s geared toward providing more clarity for hobbyists who have asked town staff for permission to go metal detecting. There is currently no policy in place.
“The predicament we have is we don’t have a policy as it pertains to this. The state doesn’t have any overarching policies – it relies on municipalities to make them on their own. A quick Google will tell you other towns have policies we could use to influence our own,” Select Board Chair Andy Jefferson said Aug. 28.
The new policy would require written permission
from the landowner for metal detecting on private property. On public property, the town would give written permission prior to metal detecting activities, and the hobbyist would provide a rough time period when they would be detecting. The town may require the hobbyist to present identification, and all items found would remain the property of the town.
The removal of historic
artifacts is prohibited.
The policy helps the town ensure the activity is safe –away from underground utilities, for example – and away from sports fields, schools, or wetlands. The Select Board will continue evaluating the policy after a few adjustments are made regarding how much, if any, digging is allowed; some Select Board members cautioned that there needs to be more precise language in that area.
Photo/Cosmin Jarvis/Pexels
Vote increases oversight for fire station project
By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter
NORTHBOROUGH – The Select Board voted for greater oversight over funds for the construction of the new fire station at 165 Main Street, a move that comes after weeks of what some members described as emotionally driven debate.
The vote on Oct. 6 concluded a weekslong debate over $6.5 million in bid savings from the project. Board member Jacob Jones, the board’s liaison to the Fire Station Building Committee, advocated for an additional layer of oversight.
“I thought that [the savings] was really good news and in order to eliminate perhaps the temptation to find other ways to spend that money, we took it off the table,” Jones previously said.
Members voted 4-1 to approve Jones’ motion, with board member Michael Tietjen voting against.
“I think this is a compromise that Jacob has made and I know we’ve all heard a lot of requests from the community to find ways to save money. If it’s going to help us be a little bit more conservative, I think that this is something I would
support,” said board member Laura Ziton during the Oct. 6 meeting.
The proposal drew criticism from members of the Fire Station Building Committee, which argued that an insinuation of “frivolous” spending was unfounded.
“I’ve been doing this for 50, almost 60 years now. I just want to say I’ve never, ever frivolously spent money, and I don’t believe anybody that’s on that committee would ever frivolously spend money,”
Committee Chair Dawn Rand said at the board’s Sept. 22 meeting. “I do take it to heart, that ‘the money will be there and you’re just going to spend it.’ I resent that accusation, or the idea that I would do that, or anyone on that board would do that.”
Tietjen claimed that while no one’s intentions were wrong, the vote sends a message of mistrust.
“It just gives oxygen to the [people who believe] that at every turn the fire station can do no right,” said Tietjen. “I don’t think that’s what Jacob is trying to do. I think he’s sincere in where he’s coming from, but that’s just my concern.”
According to Fire Chief David Parenti, the Select Board’s
vote doesn’t change the current procedures the committee operates under. The millions in bid savings is authorized — as residents voted to approve $41.3 million in November 2024 — but isn’t officially borrowed, meaning the committee doesn’t have access to it.
In order to access the savings, the committee needs approval from the Select Board and Town Administrator.
“My concern … is by the time it comes to the board to approve borrowing, it’s very likely that the money will have already been committed and we will simply be voting on whether we permit the town to pay its bills,” Jones said.
“It’s not to say that we would say ‘no’ to it – it’s to say we’d like to be at the front end of that process, and so far I haven’t seen that happening,” he added.
The debate carried over into several meetings, devolving into debates over spending, transparency, and trust. Some residents and board members called the proposal a “vote of no confidence” in the Fire Station Building Committee and other town officials.
“This motion doesn’t actually do anything, but it says everything,” said resident
Protein shake spot opens in Northborough
By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter
NORTHBOROUGH — A new wellness cafe has opened in Northborough’s Pierce Plaza. Northborough Nutrition Hub opened this week at 60
West Main Street. The shop serves protein shakes, energy teas, protein waffles, and more.
The shop is run by Susan Farrington and her daughterin-law Andreanna Stanton, who both own other well -
First Federated Church in Hudson
Annual Fall Craft Fair
Saturday October 25 • 9AM — 3PM
As always, coffee and other refreshments will be available for purchase in the morning and a lunch menu will be available from 9am – 3pm.
Raffles will be available!
First Federated Church, 200 Central St, Hudson, MA 01749 978-562-9207 email: ffchudson@yahoo.com
Mitch Cohen, the former Select Board chair and liaison to the building committee.
During the Select Board’s vote, members said “personal attacks” shouldn’t have come into play.
“I was really surprised by the reaction at the last meeting,” said Ziton. “Something we’re doing to try and save money really turned into a lot of personal attacks that I don’t think were necessary. … I hope in the future when we do run into complicated problems, we can be more respectful in
how we all work together,” she added.
Board member Jonathan Rea added that the extended debate only hindered the board in its overall purpose: to serve the residents.
“It was interesting how much emotion was driven in this conversation when practically speaking there’s not a big difference. We waste so much time on things that aren’t a big difference,” Rea said. “If we did it to the things that made a big difference, we could make a real impact on this town.”
ness shops in Central Massachusetts. Farrington, a former nurse, opened her first shop in Connecticut in 2010 before moving back to her hometown of Shrewsbury in 2013. Since returning to Central Mass., she’s opened two shops in Worcester.
Stanton, a Worcester resident, is also a registered nurse and owns Heart City Health in Framingham with her husband.
Farrington said she’s ex -
cited to bring her passion for health to the area where she grew up.
“It’s a great community. I feel like it’s a growing community,” Farrington said. “People need a good, healthy spot to come, whether it be for breakfast or before school with the kids, and get a healthy protein shake.”
The shop has about 50 shakes on the menu and 17 different varieties of protein shakes. Flavors range from
tropical to banana bread, Farrington said. Options for kids include shakes and refreshers.
Northborough Nutrition Hub will also offer wellness evaluations and plans for people looking to gain muscle, lose weight, and more. At its core, Farrington said the shop is about coming together for a healthier lifestyle.
“We’re really about community,” she said.
The Marlborough Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) serves as the state-chartered economic development arm of Marlborough, Massachusetts. Operating as a public-private partnership, MEDC’s mission is clear: foster business growth, create jobs, and revitalize the community.
At the heart of MEDC’s work is a focus on business attraction, retention, and expansion. The team works with site selectors, developers, and investors to ensure Marlborough remains a competitive hub for industries ranging from biotech to advanced manufacturing. To support entrepreneurs and small businesses, MEDC offers its “Toolbox” of financial incentive programs, including reimbursement grants and a revolving loan fund geared towards off-setting start-up or expansion costs for new or growing businesses. This year alone MEDC has awarded over $110,000 to Marlborough based businesses.
MEDC’s pop-up shop program in Downtown Marlborough saw remarkable success in its third year, totaling twenty-two vendors utilizing the space for their own unique storefront and testing the downtown market. To date, two businesses, Vibes Candles and Rocks & Roots, have been successful in opening their own brick and mortar storefronts after being a pop-up vendor. MEDC is optimistic for more pop-up shop users to do the same in the future.
Communication and engagement are also central: MEDC produces a monthly e-newsletter and a bi-monthly video podcast, which spotlights local initiatives and voices to help engage residents, visitors and employees working in the city. The team has a strong focus on keeping residents informed on the city’s business and economic development news as well as what the team is following locally.
Led by Executive Director Meredith Harris, and a board of local leaders, MEDC focuses on growing industries such as life sciences, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing thanks to the city’s ability to deliver
on required infrastructure and access. This strategy grows the city’s tax base, helping to keep residential tax rates stable and predictable, while also improving quality of life.
Recent projects highlight the tangible impact of MEDC’s work. The Alta French Hill development, supported through MEDC and the City of Marlborough via new zoning and creative economic development practices, delivered 276 new residential units, 10,000 square feet of commercial space, 374 parking spaces, a new public restroom facility, and significant improvements to the Rail Trail — enhancing both housing availability and community amenities.
With initiatives like these, MEDC continues to power Marlborough’s economic momentum, shaping a prosperous future for businesses and residents alike.
Honest to goodness.
Avidia Bank has a proud history built on serving its customers and the communities it calls home. In 2007, the bank took a major step forward when Hudson Savings Bank and Westborough Bank — both founded in 1869 — merged. The new bank that was formed is what is now known as Avidia Bank. Since 2007, Avidia Bank has grown to a $2.7 billion community bank.
Although the bank’s growth has been impressive, Avidia has never lost sight of its roots as a community bank. In support of this mission, the bank formed the Avidia Charitable Foundation in 2007. Since that time, Avidia has donated over $1.5 million to local causes including Jeremiah’s Inn, Abby’s House, The Boys and Girls Club of MetroWest, and Employment Options, to name a few. The Avidia Charitable Foundation is the bank’s way of showing it will never be too big to care deeply about the communities it serves.
Headquartered in Hudson, Avidia has branches in Hudson, Westborough, Northborough, Marlborough, Shrewsbury, Clinton, Leominster, and Framingham.
Connect with MEDC Today!
As a third-generation, family-owned agency, we’re proud to put our clients first in everything we do. Unlike large call centers, you’ll have a dedicated advisor who knows you by name and understands your unique needs.
Because we partner with more than 40 insurance companies, we can find the right coverage at the right price—tailored just for you. For nearly 100 years, our mission has been simple: deliver personal service, trusted advice, and peace of mind.
Monday - Friday 8- 5 pm, and Saturdays by appointment
Mr. Handyman serves Central Massachusetts and the MetroWest areas, covering the Mass. Turnpike and the I-495 belt areas. You can trace their early days to Chelmsford, where the first Mr. Handyman location opened in 1996. Now, Mr. Handyman is equipped with both local and national backing as they join Neighborly’s family of brands.
Mr. Handyman has professional, licensed carpenters, all of whom are thoroughly back-ground checked, bonded, and insured. They show up in company uniforms, carry photo IDs, and wear the proper PPE and practice healthy habits to protect you and those you love.
They are always looking to hire more staff that would meet their high standards and put customer care above all else. They’ve also added to their employee benefits package this year.
People often expect a handyman to do only small jobs, but Mr. Handyman can do so much more. They can handle most remodeling and all types of repairs and installations, including tile, gutter work, wood rot, siding, power washing, windows and doors, painting, drywall and water damage. If a licensed plumber or electrician is needed for your job, Mr. Handyman will refer and work with their reputable partners.
In New England, colorful leaves mean that the cool weather is breezing in... and the snow is not too far behind! Let Mr. Handyman look at your gutters in preparation of the season! Need gutter guard to prevent those nasty clogs? They can install that too.
There is still time to fix those creaky deck boards, address that peeling paint, and replace your damaged siding. Not ready to get the job done? That’s okay, too. They love to plan and would be happy to get you on the schedule for all those indoor winter remodels to give you and your family that movie room you always wanted. A little preventive maintenance can go a long way. It’s money well spent! Call Mr. Handyman at 508-366-3690.
“We believe that your customer experience is as important as our quality craftsmanship.” Mr. Handyman is the recipient of the Coveted Angi Super Service award for the past 9 years. Please check out our online reviews & for more details, check us out at www. mrhandyman.com/ central-metrowest/.
What’s New at Beacon Acupuncture
Beacon Acupuncture LLC
Liza Tangney L.Ac.
210 Worcester St, Suite 1C North Grafton, MA 01536
www.BeaconAcupuncture.com 508-887-3310
Greetings from Beacon Acupuncture! I’m Liza Tangney, licensed acupuncturist and your neighbor here in North Grafton. Whether you’ve been coming to the clinic for years or are just curious about how acupuncture might support your health, I’m excited to share some new offerings and recent training that deepen the care I can provide.
Over the past year, I
completed an advanced training program called The Tao of Trauma with Alaine Duncan. This work brings together East Asian Medicine’s Five Element Theory with Somatic Experiencing and Polyvagal Theory—three powerful lenses for understanding the body’s response to stress and trauma. This integrated approach helps those living with chronic conditions or the long-term effects of trauma reconnect with a sense of safety and inner resilience. It’s about opening the space for your body’s natural ability to heal, regulate, and thrive. The pillars of focus are on supporting the nervous system, restoring internal coherence, expanding your zone of resiliency and cultivating greater capacity for healing. In essence, it is a gentle, supported return to wholeness
I’m also pleased to introduce a new service now available at the clinic: Lymphatic Enhancement Technology (LET). This gentle, non-invasive therapy supports the health of your lymphatic system. With more lymph than blood in your body, the lymph system is a vital part of your body’s immune response and detoxification process. The treatment uses the Lymphstar Pro Fusion, which emits a combination of low-frequency sound, light therapy, and electrostatic energy to activate lymphatic capillaries, reduce tissue congestion, break up waste proteins, enhance microcirculation and promote healthy fluid movement. Many patients find it deeply relaxing and restorative, whether used on its own or alongside acupuncture.
Beacon Acupuncture continues to be a place where you can address a wide range of concerns—from musculoskeletal pain, anxiety, and digestive issues to women’s health, neuropathy, and more. Whether you’re managing a specific condition or just need a reset, we’ll work together to support your wellness goals in a holistic, grounded way.
Consider adding Beacon Acupuncture as a spoke in your wellness wheel. You don’t have to do it all alone—your body is wise, and support is here when you need it.
After 42 years, Catacchio Auto Detail still shining
By Paul Hopkins Reporter
NORTH GRAFTON – For more than 40 years, Catacchio Auto Detail has been shining it up.
“I started working as a kid for my brother, cleaning cars. It evolved from there,” said Vic Catacchio. Then, in 1983, he branched out on his own, working closely with auto dealers in the area and growing his business.
In addition to steady work with auto dealers, Catacchio has a long list of regular customers: “I have about 150 people who bring their vehicles to me, usually twice a year,” he said. People typically come to Catacchio in the fall and after the harsh New England winters.
Precise work means great results The detailing process is precise and labor-intensive. It starts with a “good overall wash of the car” that includes wheels, wheel wells, and door jambs. Next, Catacchio gets down to the nitty gritty, using a clay product to remove embedded contaminants that dull a car’s finish.
“It’s like going from sandpaper to glass,” says Catacchio. Interior rugs and cloth seats are treated with an extractor to remove dirt and stains, and the deep clean also removes odors. Following that, Catacchio uses a compound to remove scratches — then it’s on to glazing and a hand wax. The last step makes the windows spotless.
A recent customer, the owner of a BMW X3, brought the car in after an ill-fated attempt to clean spots using a scrub pad: “When I got done with it, I brought her to the lot and she asked, ‘Where is my car?’ She didn’t recognize it, and she was just overwhelmed. It really came out nice,” Catacchio said with a smile
Keeping a car looking like new helps it hold its value.
“It can change your opinion of your own car,” said Catacchio. “You might be tired of driving it, then you get it cleaned and detailed and you say, ‘Wow, this really is a nice car. I’m going to keep it.’”
Motorcycles, business vehicles, boats
Catacchio doesn’t just make cars shine – he also does motorcycles. “I enjoy doing them,” he said. “It’s a labor of love for me.” If your business uses vans or trucks, Catacchio Auto Detail can give you that all-important first impression.
Services include interior and exterior cleaning, interior and exterior detailing, and chrome restoration. Catacchio is happy to provide an estimate. For customers who live within 10 miles, Catacchio will arrange a ride home and pick-up at the end of the day.
Looking for a gift idea? Catacchio offers gift certificates that can be a perfect present for a family member or friend. It’s a gift they won’t forget.
After decades in the auto detailing business, Catacchio said “it gives [him] great satisfaction to bring something back to where it should be. We might start with an old, faded, scratchy car, and when we’re done, it looks great.”
You can reach Catacchio Auto Detail at 774-272-0815, by email at shineitup2@yahoo.com, and on the web at www.catacchioautodetail.com. The business is conveniently located at 218 Worcester Street in North Grafton.
Mugford’s Flower Shoppe has been a family-owned business since Paul Mugford started in the 1960’s. Chris Bakutis is the current owner since 1992.
It is an independent florist and a farm with unique blooms to supplement the flower shop. The Mugford’s Team — Diane, Juliette, Kathy, Liz, Lorinda, Paul and Terry help grow, create and deliver throughout central MA and beyond. Our farm fresh blooms help make our signature floral style unique. During the growing season, our design style is well known throughout the community.
When you see our design, you know its unusual and interesting. We have been utilizing farm to table arrangements long before it became popular. Our farm is a hidden gem. We offer same day delivery, workshops, wedding and sympathy tributes. Visit us online, call us or drop in and chat with the friendly staff.
Prepaid pickup room open 24/7 for your convenience.
Flowers make people happy. Flowers from us will have people talking long after the blooms faded.
GYMNASTICS LEARNING CENTER
What is the history of the Gymnastics Learning Center? Owner Marianne Simone Frongillo opened Gymnastics Learning Center (GLC) in 1983. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in physical education and health and is also teacher-certified in grades K-12.
What does GLC offer for families? Classes are offered for boys and girls from 20 months to 18 years old (including girls competitive teams). Children may attend a free trial class which allows them to experience all of the Olympic equipment, specialized preschool apparatus, sunken trampoline, tumble track, in-ground safety pits and summer swim lessons.
What kind of background does the coaching staff have? They are professional, knowledgeable, dedicated and use up-to-date teaching techniques in their newly renovated state-of-the-art facility. GLC’s staff believes in “Building the Pride Inside Each Child,” while providing a safe, fun and positive learning environment. All staff members are certified in First Aid, CPR, and USA Safety Certified.
What recognition has GLC received? GLC has been awarded numerous Readers’ Choice Awards and first-place individual and team awards at state, national and regional levels.
How does GLC give back to the community? GLC supports Toys for Tots for Shrewsbury Youth and Family Services, Operation Christmas Child, MADD, Doctors Without Borders and Heifer International.
What is God’s Little Children Preschool & Kindergarten? Located in the GLC building, the school is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Students are taught by nurturing and professional teachers whose passion is to help young children excel and grow. Parents are encouraged to call and schedule a tour.
What makes Gymnastics’ Learning Center and God’s Little Children stand out from the competition? A positive self-esteem is the basis for human happiness - gold medals are empty without it. Pride in your accomplishments, confidence in your ability to succeed and the knowledge that you can be proud of your endeavors are the greatest gifts that teachers and coaches can give to their students.
Teaching safe & fun gymnastics for over 42 years! Register for classes online at: www.gymnasticslearningcenter.org
Over the past 25+ years, Jim Dayotas has built J&K Roofing on a foundation of personalized service and meticulous craftsmanship, working exclusively with one dedicated and highly skilled crew. This approach allows them to maintain the highest quality standards on every project, large or small.
They specialize in a wide range of roofing solutions for all types of properties, from commercial buildings to residential structures, including sheds and barns. Their expertise covers various roofing materials and exterior services, including:
• Asphalt Architectural Shingles: Durable, aesthetic, and affordable.
• Rubber Roofs (EPDM):Long-lasting, seamless, and low-maintenance option, ideal for flat roofs.
• Cedar Roofs: Beautiful, natural look with excellent longevity.
• Synthetic Slate Roofs: Elegant appearance of natural slate with enhanced durability and lower maintenance.
• Standing Seam Metal Roofs: Highly durable and aesthetically pleasing, longevity and weather resistance.
• Exposed Fastener Metal Roofs: Robust metal roofing option, offering distinct visual appeal.
• Seamless Gutter Installation: Protecting your home’s foundation and landscaping from water damage.
• Leaf Guard Installation: Keeping your gutters clear and functioning efficiently year-round.
• Siding Installation (Clapboard, Cedar, Vinyl): Enhancing your home’s curb appeal and protecting it from the elements.
• Rooftop Snow and Ice Removal: Safety and integrity of your roof during winter months.
Jim Dayotas, Owner 508-393-1868 www.jandkroofs.com Call them today!
on providing patients with the latest innovations in ocular technology, Dr. Jean Keamy established Keamy Eye & Laser Centre. Since the Centre’s inception in 2004, Dr. Keamy has delivered superior eye care, including LASIK, dry eye treatment, and advanced cataract surgery, for which she is widely known. As one satisfied patient succinctly put:
“If I had a third eye and needed cataract surgery, I would do it with Dr. Keamy unequivocally. Great office staff, stellar experience with the procedure at UMASS, from the volunteers at the door to the post-op nurses. All in all, couldn’t have been better.”
A few years later, Dr. Keamy employed her artistic ability as a fine art photographer and surgical precision to build Keamy Cosmetic. Central to the success of Keamy Cosmetic is Dr. Keamy’s knack for getting to the heart of each patient’s perception of age and beauty. Her thoughtful aesthetic sense, light touch, and sensitivity to her patients’ needs is what makes Keamy Cosmetic so remarkable. A testimonial to her success is perfectly summed up:
“She has an amazing eye for detail and beauty. A doctor and an artist — a rare combination. I have worked in aesthetics and trust Dr. Keamy with my appearance. She is exceptional.”
Whether a patient of Keamy Eye & Laser Centre or Keamy Cosmetic — or both, Dr. Keamy and her staff will take the time to get to know you. Rest assured, Dr. Keamy will deliver your treatment with the skill of a surgeon and the eye of an artist.
Waldron’s Auto Body CARSTAR, founded on November 1, 1981, in Marlborough, MA, is celebrating 45 years of service in 2026. What began as a small garage has grown into a respected auto body business with three locations: Marlborough, Lancaster, and Worcester. Owned and operated by Robert Waldron, the family-run shop has remained committed to craftsmanship, employee care, and community involvement. Waldron’s is known for its loyal, long-tenured staff — some with over 30 years of service — reflecting the company’s “people first” philosophy. Employees benefit from competitive pay, health insurance, ongoing training, and a strong team culture. This supportive environment has helped build a dedicated, skilled workforce. Community support is another cornerstone of Waldron’s success. The shop regularly donates to local schools, youth sports, and charities. It also participates in programs like Shine Season and the Recycled Rides Program, restoring and donating vehicles to families in need. Despite its modest beginnings, the shop now features advanced repair technology, including Tesla EV-certified equipment, showcasing a commitment to innovation. As they enter their 45th year, Waldron’s Auto Body CARSTAR remains focused on delivering top-quality service with a small-town heart, thanking loyal customers, and looking forward to continued growth.
Real estate is more than just a career for me, it’s a true passion that aligns with who I am. Whether I’m helping fi rst-time home buyers find their dream home, guiding sellers through a smooth transaction, or assisting investors in making strategic moves, I approach every opportunity with dedication and a deep understanding of the market. My work in commercial real estate and investment has given me a solid foundation, but it’s the human connections and the personal stories behind each property that truly inspire me.
When I’m not working in real estate, you’ll often fi nd me spending quality time with my family or giving back to the community. These moments remind me of the importance of home, relationships, and the sense of belonging that comes with a space to call your own. I also love exploring the world through camping, photography, and travel, which allows me to bring a fresh, creative perspective to my work. The beauty of nature and the diverse people I encounter along the way keep me grounded and motivated.
This blend of family, community, adventure, and real estate drives my passion for what I do. I believe real estate is where I’m truly meant to be, and I fi nd joy in working alongside other agents who share that commitment. Together, we’re able to help clients turn their dreams into reality. Whether it’s through a fi rst home purchase, an investment opportunity, or selling a property, I’m here to make every step of the journey as smooth and exciting as possible. Let’s connect and create success together.
Northborough – Conveniently located in Central Massachusetts, Juniper Hill Golf Course offers 36 holes of golf on two challenging courses — Riverside and Lakeside. The Riverside Course, opened in 1931, is best described as sporty, interesting and picturesque as the Assabet River winds its way through the course, providing a beautiful setting. The Lakeside Course, opened in 1991, is a challenging Carolina-style course that takes full advantage of its New England setting along Lake Chauncy
Juniper Hill’s clubhouse includes a full-service proshop, the Juniper Grille and multiple conference and event facilities for social and business functions.
The 70-seat Juniper Grille features a fireplace constructed with bricks from the original farmhouse and a view of the Riverside ninth and tenth holes. Guests can enjoy the 100-seat deck overlooking the 13,000-squarefoot practice green for a nice cool drink or great meal.
The Pavilion is next to the clubhouse and the practice green. It has a seating capacity of up to 300 for golf outings, tournaments or social events.
The Golf Teaching Center is located adjacent to the Riverside Course. The seven-acre facility features a practice green, bunker and multiple teeing areas for private and group instruction or golfers hitting a warmup bucket of balls. Adult and junior programs, as well as clinics and on-course instruction are offered.
www.juniperhillgc.com
Spotlight Kitchen, Bath & Lighting Design Center
Worcester – Immediately upon entering either of the dazzling showrooms of Spotlight Kitchen, Bath & Lighting Design Center, conveniently located at 86 Shrewsbury St. in Worcester, one realizes that this isn’t your average design center. It isn’t just the gleaming surfaces, the sleek cabinetry and sophisticated hardware; it’s also the warm welcome one receives from owner Alban Gega and members of his team.
“I want people to come and see our beautiful showrooms for themselves, to see the high quality of what we offer and get a different experience than in others,” he said.
What he offers are meticulous designs unique to each of his clients’ needs and wishes using the most up-to-date styles and trends with state-of-the-art technology. He prides himself on delivering incredible service.
Morgan Vance, Spotlight Kitchen & Bath’s office manager, said that Gega stands out because he is exceptionally personable with his clients.
His team includes Leanne Sargent, design lead and architect, and who is a recipient of the 30 Under 30 Award by the National Kitchen and Association in 2015, as well as Madison O’Leary, assistant Kitchen Designer.
With years of design experience with other firms, Gega set out on his own about six years ago and has built this business on a foundation of trust.
“We have a different motto. We work with clients and we also work with a lot of contractors so if a client needs a contractor we can refer them to the ones that we work with regularly and trust,” he stated. “I built my company by creating loyal, lasting relationships with other local businesses. We want to be able to continuously feed them, and in turn, they feed us.”
Their process starts with a FREE consultation and in-home measurements before beginning the design
stage.
“We create the design and we show renderings on our 70-inch big screens and you can see the design in 3-D, including a breakdown of the floor plan, elevations, and other details,” he explained. “We don’t charge for any of our measures or design consultations. We take pride in our showroom, products and skills and it is up to our customer to take it to the next level. There is nothing for them to lose.”
Spotlight Kitchen & Bath will coordinate all aspects of a project from design to delivery including countertops, backsplash, hardware, flooring and an extensive array of lighting options. They have it all!
Gega said that they can create a beautiful kitchen or bathroom on any budget and often beat the local home box store in quality and price. They have also done closets, basements and home entertainment zones.
“We have handpicked our lines of cabinets that have a little bit of edge on their competitors with better price,” he added. “Many of the manufacturers build their product in-house from scratch.”
When asked about design trends, Gega replied, “New England will always be New England. White kitchens are here to stay and will never go out of style…I am seeing different finishes coming like two-tone kitchens such as a white and off white or grey pairing and the island may be a different color.”
He pointed out that he isn’t seeing the use of cherry as much at the moment but walnut, hickory and alder have become popular.
Spotlight Kitchen & Bath is a proud
member of the National Kitchen and Bath Association, and has been recognized for the past six years with the “Best of Houzz” Award. They also enjoy an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.
Gega looks forward to helping you fulfill your remodeling dreams. For more information, visit: https://www.spotlightkitchens.com. To reach the center: phone 508-762-9095 or 508-353-6112 or by fax at 508-635-6819. They may also be reached by email: spotlightkb@gmail.com. Hours of operation are: Monday – Friday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. and by special weekend or evening appointments.
The Spotlight Kitchen, Bath & Lighting Design Center’s team: From l to r, Morgan Vance, Alban Gega, Madison O’Leary and Leanne Sargent. (Photo/ Courtesy)
COMMUNITY CLASSIFIED
ST. JUDE’S NOVENA
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, by the ninth day your prayer will be answered. It has never been known to fail. Publication must be promised. My prayers are being answered. ~ D.L.
A Powerful Prayer to the Holy Spirit Holy Spirit you who solve all problems who light all roads so I can attain my goals, you who give me the divine gifts to forgive and forget all evil against me, in this short prayer to thank you for all things and confirm once again that I never want to be separated from you, even in spite of all material illusions. I wish you in eternal glory, thank you for your mercy towards me and mine. The person must say this prayer for three consecutive days. After three days the favor requested will be granted, even if it may appear difficult. This prayer must be published immediately after the favor is granted without mentioning the favor. Only your initials shall appear on the bottom. ~ D.L.
A Prayer for Physical Healing
Lord jesus, we need your healing touch! These areas of our bodies, and diseases weakening people we love: our aches and pains limit us; from head to toe, and from fingertip to fingertip we hurt in areas which make the whole of us hurt; parts of us are diseased and not functioning well; there is cancer, high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis, and other diseases slowly weakening us. The pain isolates and shrinks us. Today, Lord Jesus, we place our physical pain and the hurt of family and friends before you, reaching out as young St. Therese, for the healing power and peace that only heaven can give. With tears of hope and gratitude we seek Your healing touch. We ask You this, who teaches us confidence and trust in your love. Amen
Thank you to God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. I prayed to St. Therese for her intercession for a physical healing which I have received. Glory to God. ~ D.L.
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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
Fields, Ronald formerly of Grafton Fricault, Joyce of Marlborough Furbush, Linda of Marlborough Girouard, Corabelle of Grafton Gorman, John formerly of Northborough Horgan, Patricia of Northborough Jeas, Irene of Northborough Johnson, Peter of Marlborough Marrandette, Jeannette of Marlborough Pratt, Robert of Shrewsbury Rooney, Cynthia of Hudson Santos, Kevin of Shrewsbury Sessions, Susan formerly of Southborough Smith, Arthur of Westborough Talbot, John of Northborough/Shrewsbury Trudeau, Dennis of Marlborough
Patricia A. Horgan
Scan QR code to read all of this week’s obituaries on our website.
Sherwood Middle School sixth-grade teacher passes away unexpectedly
SHREWSBURY – Jonathan
Butler, a sixth-grade math and science teacher for the past 11 years at Shrewsbury’s Sherwood Middle School, died unexpectedly on Oct. 8 after a cardiac event he suffered at his home.
Butler was 38.
“During [his time as a
tober 8, 2025, in Millbury. Born on March 17, 2005, in Worcester, Massachusetts, Kevin brought light and warmth to those around him from the very beginning.
teacher], Mr. Butler impacted the lives of countless students. He was a valued educator, colleague, and friend who deeply cared for the students and the school community. This loss is deeply felt,” said School Committee Chair Erin Boucher.
According to Butler’s obituary, he was born in Southbridge and grew up in Fitchburg. He graduated from Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical High School and went on to earn both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Fitchburg State University.
Butler’s family and his faith were the most important things to him. He was a faithful member of Horizon
ter, Katherine (Jeas) Sullivan and her husband, Dan, and her great granddaughter, Natalie Sullivan all of Rochester, New Hampshire. She also leaves her brother, George Merkle of St Louis, Missouri, her sister, Katherine (Merkle) Lambros of Marquette, Michigan, and four nieces, and three nephews.
Christian Fellowship for over 11 years. There, he had loved serving on both the Cleaning and Children’s Ministry. Butler had a deep love for animals and nature. He would love to just sit and watch the birds in his backyard. He was also an avid Disney fan; having just taken his family on a Disney Cruise in July, he was already planning their next cruise to Alaska.
Butler enjoyed cooking, gardening, and spending time with his family. He loved getting everybody together for the holidays or just because. Reading was another pastime of his. Teaching was his passion, and he touched countless lives through his kindness, humor, and faith.
He had a quiet and gentle strength about him. He leaves his loving wife, Michelle L. (LaPointe) Butler of Fitchburg; his cherished daughter, Kyleigh Butler of Fitchburg; his beloved kitties, Trixie and Tahlia; his mother, Robin (Weld) Elkins, and stepfather, Tom Elkins of Leominster; his father, Adam Butler, and his longtime companion, Monique Tula of California; his sister, Hannah Martin, and her husband, Troy, of Leominster; three nephews, John, Joey, and Lucas; and a niece, Lily Grace. The Isabelle & Anderson Funeral Home, 316 Clarendon Street, Fitchburg, is assisting the family with arrangements.
NORTHBOROUGH - Patricia Ann (Carrigan) Horgan, of Northborough, MA, passed away peacefully on October 3, 2025, surrounded by the love and comfort of her family.
Patricia is predeceased by her husband, Michael A. Horgan; her son, Brett P. Horgan; and her brother, Michael “Buddy” Carrigan.
She is survived by her son, Michael Horgan, and his wife, Tracy, of Northborough; her daughter, Deirdre Smirl, and her husband, Jon, of Wellesley, MA; and her cherished grandchildren, Connor and Fiona Smirl, also of Wellesley. Chiampa Funeral Home of Shrewsbury assisted the family.
Kevin Santos, 20
SHREWSBURY - Kevin Santos, 20, of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, passed away on Oc-
He is lovingly remembered by his mother, Luciane Moreno; his brother, Amaro Santos; and his sister, Leticia Deandrade. Their bond with Kevin was deep and his memory will continue to live on in their hearts.
Kelly Cremation & Funeral Care of Worcester assisted the family.
Irene Jeas, 89
NORTHBOROUGH - Irene (Merkle) Jeas, 89, of Northborough, died Friday, October 3rd at UMass Memorial Medical Center, Worcester. She was the wife of Colonel William C. Jeas (USAF ret.), who pre-deceased her in May 2024. Irene, originally of Marquette Michigan, leaves her son, Dean Jeas and his wife, Christine of Laconia, New Hampshire, her granddaugh-
Irene was born in Marshfield, Wisconsin, the daughter of Michael and Bertha {Lakes} Merkle.
O’Connor Brothers Funeral Home of Worcester assisted the family with arrangements.
Arthur P. Smith, 93
WESTBOROUGH - Arthur Prentice Smith, 93, of Westborough, passed away on October 10, 2025, at Whitney Place surrounded by loved ones. He was the beloved husband of Charlotte Allen-Smith for 42 years.
Art is survived by his wife Charlotte, son Matthew and his wife Kim of Lebanon, CT; son Martin of Westborough, daughter Rebecca Welch and her husband Rich of Upton; son Todd and his wife Christy of Walpole, and his grandchildren Erik Smith, Benjamin Smith,
Sydney Welch, Timothy Welch, Brynn Smith, Mackenzie Smith and Jake Smith. He also leaves his nephew and nieces David Wood, Eleanor Dutcher, and Traci, Todd and Paityn Hastings, his sister-in-law Anna Smith, his sister-in-law Sandra Allen, his brother-in-law Phil Allen and his nephews Mark and Brian Allen.
In addition to his parents, Art was predeceased by his brothers Burton, Richard, and Charles, and his sister Evelyn Wood and his niece Heather Primett.
Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted the family.
Cynthia L. Rooney, 77
HUDSON - Cynthia Rooney, lovingly known as Cindy, passed away surrounded by her family and friends on October 9, 2025 at The Branches of Marlboro, Massachusetts at the age of 77.
She is survived by her daughters Denise Dejnak and her husband Jack and Jeannie Graffeo and her husband Michael; grandchildren Daniel Dejnak, Megan Dejnak, Camille Graffeo, and Mia Graf-
feo; sister, Patricia Amichetti and brother, Roger Fillio and his wife Valerie; Partner Francis Martin and family. Cindy leaves behind her children’s father, Thomas Rooney, many nieces, nephews, and friends. Cindy was preceded in death by sister Barbara Fillio, brother-in-law Santo Amichetti, mother, Hilda Fillio and father, Wilmot Fillio.
Tighe Hamilton Funeral Home of Hudson assisted the family.
Robert J. Pratt, 78
SHREWSBURY - Robert J. “Bob” Pratt, 78, a Shrewsbury resident, passed away on Sunday, October 12, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Bob is survived by his devoted wife and best friend of 53 years, Teresa A. “Terry” Pratt; his devoted children, Timothy J. Pratt and his wife, Jessy of Auburn and Megan M. Pratt and her husband Harry T. Hyams V of Framingham. His presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will remain a part of the people he held so dear.
The Britton-Shrewsbury Funeral Home of Shrewsbury assisted the family.
COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
After grant, Indian food may be served at Shrewsbury schools
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – In an effort to give students different “culturally relevant” food options during lunchtime, Shrewsbury cafeterias may be serving Indian food in the future. The district is in the extremely early stages of training, which may take years to complete.
“I think it’s more [about] acceptance. It maybe opens the students’ eyes a little, and I think people enjoy tasting new foods,” said Beth Nichols, the district’s director of food services.
Shrewsbury Public Schools earned a CECAP (Creating & Executing a Culinary Advancement Plan) grant from the John C. Stalker Institute of Food and Nutrition at Framingham State University. Shrewsbury chose to use the grant to explore adding
different cultural items to lunchroom menus.
On Aug. 26, the Food Service Department received several hours of live-training at Sherwood Middle School, learning how to make basic Indian fare like tandoori chicken and aloo gobi, a vegetable curry dish. District staff may complete further online training, and, if the grant continues, a John Stalker chef may come to Shrewsbury for 12 live-cooking demonstrations.
The program isn’t without challenges, however. Some ethnic cuisines have ingredients commonly found in K12 vendors, but Indian food in particular includes a list of spices that are “harder for us to access,” Nichols said during a June 11 School Committee meeting.
“It really takes skill,” she said.
All food in each of the eight self-operating kitchens in the Shrewsbury school system may look different in the near-future as the district eyes scratch-cooking in all the schools.
The district hired Brigade Consultants to evaluate the schools’ food system. The district has 51 full-time food department employees, and since lunch and breakfast became free, cafeterias are getting busier and busier.
Still, Brigade gave Shrewsbury strong marks.
“Kitchen teams operated with a really high degree of autonomy. A lot of people took a lot of pride in their work. They demonstrate some creativity, especially how they prepare and present food. … The staff was motivated, committed to quality,” a consultant said at the Sept. 10 School Committee meeting.
Groceries/dining
Monthly
Housekeeping
24-hour staffing
24-hour
Lawn care/landscaping
Home maintenance (snow removal, etc.)
Transportation (gas, auto insurance, etc.)
Trash removal
Exterior building maintenance
Plumbing/appliance repairs
Social/cultural events
Other
POLICE FIRE&
SHREWSBURY – Fentanyl was allegedly discovered after a traffic stop in Shrewsbury.
On Oct. 2, a state trooper was informed that the driver of a Honda Pilot – later identified as Jose Perez – was allegedly in pos-
session of a large amount of illegal narcotics. While parked along I-290 eastbound in Shrewsbury, the trooper noticed the vehicle pass and pulled onto the highway to stop the car.
After a brief conversation
Scan QR code to read this week’s police and fire news on our website.
Man charged with trafficking fentanyl after Shrewsbury traffic stop Man
MARLBOROUGH – On Oct. 8, the Marlborough Police Department – in conjunction with the Massachusetts State Police Special Services Section, High-Risk Victims Squad – conducted a mission to “reduce the demand of child commercial sexual exploitation.” An operation was conducted where a “fictitious juvenile escort” was posted online. A Marlborough hotel was chosen as the site of the operation.
A man, identified as Anderson Mendez Ramos, 24, allegedly contacted the fictitious escort, who stated she was 15 years old. Ramos reportedly said he did “not want to go to jail” and asked to FaceTime. Ramos also allegedly texted “ur not a cop or anything right?” The fictitious escort told Ramos the hotel where she was located, and officers allegedly observed Ramos knocking at the door.
Officers placed Ramos into
with
custody, and his phone was reportedly confirmed as the device that communicated with the escort. After being read his Miranda rights, Ramos allegedly stated he “broke up with his girlfriend and his friend told him to call this number to have some fun.” He allegedly told officers he intended to have sexual intercourse with the escort.
Ramos is being charged with Sexual Conduct For
allegedly
two individually packaged clear bags, one opened and one sealed.
According to court documents, there was an unknown white powder in the bags.
After being arrested, Perez allegedly said the powder was a cleaning substance. Perez is being charged with fentanyl trafficking and the unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. He pleaded “not guilty” during his arraignment.
a Fee with a Child and Attempt to Commit a Crime. He was arraigned on Oct. 9 and pleaded “not guilty.” He has been released on personal recognizance.
Central Mass. joins national ‘No Kings’ rally
By Community Advocate Staff
REGION — Across the country, thousands took to the streets on Oct. 18 in “No Kings” protests, denouncing the Trump administration’s policies and ongoing ICE raids nationwide.
Similar protests in June drew hundreds across the region, with some towns seeing as many as over 500 demonstrators.
WESTBOROUGH
Over 300 gathered in the rotary in downtown Westborough, waving an array of signs as cars honked in support.
Diana Wentworth of Northborough said the reasons to come out and protest are “endless.”
“It’s like everyday there is a new reason to be upset,” Wentworth said. She highlighted the “lack of respect” for science, vaccines, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Andrea Pereira of Shrews-
bury said there is a lack of tolerance in the U.S. under this administration.
“We can’t be full of hate,” she said. “There are too many parallels to the beginning of Nazi Germany – the very beginning. So that’s why I’m here. I’m really worried.”
MARLBOROUGH
In Marlborough, hundreds gathered in Union Common, holding signs calling for due process and denouncing actions by the Trump administration.
“That is not what democracy looks like. People need to resist this,” said Rosalind Baker, a Marlborough resident.
Marlborough resident Pamela McNair founded Indivisible Marlborough, which organized the Oct. 18 protest.
“We keep trying to tell people that if you’re not getting involved because you don’t think it matters, it matters to each one of us. And if we think that only one group
is going to be targeted, and that’s it, that’s wrong. If they come for one, they’re going to come for all,” McNair said.
“The city really wants to be here and show their support,” she said.
HUDSON
”I love America. I love democracy.” “We still will not bow to a tyrant.” “Reject Fascism.” The homemade signs ran the gamut. But the message was the same: preserve democracy.
Under a bright fall sky, hundreds of people turned out Oct. 18 in Hudson as part of the nationwide “No Kings” protests. Even before the official 10 a.m. start, more than 100 people lined the streets around the traffic circle at the intersection of Main and Washington. The crowd grew to at least 800, according to organizer Beth Cubero.
Cubero has been part of it since the first protest in March, when six people attended. “It’s a fun thing to
Relationship Abuse Red Flags How to spot them. How to get help.
Sometimes, red flags don’t wave; they whisper. With October being Domestic Violence Awareness month, we are encouraging people of all relationship-ready ages and gender identifications to attend.
• Types of relationship abuses (emotional, verbal, financial, sexual, and physical)
• Addressing the common stigmas and myths (“That doesn’t happen here”, etc.)
• Ways friends and family can safely support and direct to services
• What not to do or say when a friend or family member is in crisis
• Recognizing “red flags” and early education/prevention
• The roles of the Police and Courts
• Available local and national resources
Wednesday, October 29 from 6:00–8:00 pm Great Hall, Forbes Memorial Bldg, 2nd Floor, 45 West Main Street, Westborough
do because there is joy and fun,” she said.
Car horns sounded almost continuously in support of the protestors, who ranged in age from the young to
the not-so-young. The atmosphere was positive, even when the occasional motorist clearly objected to the message being sent.
LEGAL NOTICES
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.
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.
Applications will be received in the Town Manager’s Office at 100 Maple Avenue in Shrewsbury, MA or via email to jgoodwin@shrewsburyma.gov.
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
LEGAL NOTICE
Northborough Housing Authority Electric Panel Replacement Project #215127 Section 00 11 13 ADVERTISEMENT TO BID MGL c.149 Over $150K
The NORTHBOROUGH HOUSING AUTHORITY, the Awarding Authority, invites sealed bids from Contractors for the Electric Panel Replacement at State Aided Development: Colonial Village (667-1) in Northborough, Massachusetts, in
accordance with the documents prepared by LIRO-HILL. The Project consists of but not limited to: The replacement of the Federal Pacific Electrical (FPE) panels within each unit, along with the eighteen FPE distribution panels, and the Crouse-Hinds panel in the garage. The work is estimated to cost $628,000.00. All bidding Requests for Information (RFIs) shall be submitted online by 10/31/2025 at 2:00PM EDT for general bids. Generated By BidDocs: 10/16/2025 at 2:08PM EDT 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. THIS PROJECT IS BEING ELECTRONICALLY BID AND HARD COPY BIDS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. Please review the instructions in the bid documents on how to register as an electronic bidder. All Bids shall be submitted online at biddocs.com and received no later than the date and time specified. General bidders must be certified by the Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance (DCAMM) in the following category of work, Electrical, and must submit a current DCAMM Certificate of Eligibility and signed DCAMM Prime/General Contractor Update Statement. General Bids will be received until 07 November 2025 at 2:00PM EST and publicly opened online, forthwith. Filed Sub-bids for the trades listed below will be received until NULL at NULL and publicly opened online, forthwith. Filed sub-bidders must be DCAMM certified for the trades listed below and bidders must include a current DCAMM Sub-Bidder Certificate of Eligibility and a signed DCAMM Sub-Bidder’s Update Statement. TRADES – NONE 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 (including all alternates) and made payable to Advertisement to Bid 00 11 13 - 1 EOHLC v1.0-20250408 MGL c.149 Over $150K Northborough Housing Authority Electric Panel Replacement Project #215127 the NORTHBOROUGH HOUSING AUTHORITY. Note: A bid deposit is not required for Projects advertised under $50,000. Bid Forms and Contract Documents will be available for review at biddocs.com (may be viewed and downloaded electronically at no cost). General bidders must agree to contract with minority and women business enterprises as certified by the Supplier Diversity Office (SDO). 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 (Chad. Howard@mass.gov) 5 calendar days prior to the General Bid date. NO WAIVERS WILL BE GRANTED AFTER THE GENERAL BIDS ARE OPENED. The Contractor and all subcontractors (collectively referred to as “the Contractor”) agree to strive to achieve minority and women workforce participation. The Workforce Participation benchmark is set at 6.9% for women and 15.3% for minorities. The Workforce benchmark percentages are a statutory requirement under MGL c. 149 § 44A(2)(G). Generated By BidDocs: 10/16/2025 at 2:08PM
EDT PRE-BID CONFERENCE / SITE VISIT: Scheduled Date and Time: 10/28/2025 at 11:00AM
EDT Address: 26 Village Drive, Northborough, MA 01532 Instructions: None The hard copy Contract Documents may be seen at: Nashoba Blue Inc. 433 Main Street Hudson, MA 01749 978-568-1167 END OF SECTION Advertisement to Bid 00
11 13 - 2 EOHLC v1.0-20250408 MGL c.149 Over $150K
FAMILY & PROBATE LAW
PROPERTY OF (133 BEACH STREET)
To: The Estate of Josephine R. Duca, and any interested persons, an action has been commenced against Respondent, The Estate of Josephine R. Duca, as owner of 133 Beach Street, Marlborough, Massachusetts, and PartiesIn-Interest Michael A. Duca and Anthony Duca, as heirs of the deceased owner, Josephine R. Duca, in the Central Housing Court, Docket No. 25H85CV000554 by the Attorney General for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, affecting the property at 133 Beach Street, Marlborough, Massachusetts. The Attorney General is seeking the Court to appoint a receiver for such property to repair the property in order to make it fit for human habitation pursuant to G.L. c. 111, § 127I. If appointed and the receiver makes the property habitable, the receiver will request that the Court authorize the receiver to sell such property free and clear of any property interests claimed or held by others and free and clear of all encumbrances of record.
You are hereby summoned and required to serve upon the Attorney General’s Office, One Ashburton Place, Boston, MA 02108, an answer to the Petition to Enforce the State Sanitary Code and for Appointment of a Receiver within ten (10) days from the date of this notice. You are encouraged to contact the Court or the Attorney General’s Office at (774) 214-4411.
Please note that this matter is scheduled for a hearing on the Petition to Enforce the State Sanitary Code and for Appointment of a Receiver on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at 9:00 AM in the Central Housing Court, 225 Main Street, Worcester, MA 01608.
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
COMMUNITY SPORTS
‘I’m not looking for the glory’
Elliot Griswold is Shrewsbury’s selfless leader
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – Elliot Griswold has never chased headlines, highlights, or personal accolades. She thrives in the background, doing the gritty work most players avoid.
But in her quiet way, she’s become the irreplaceable core of Shrewsbury soccer.
“She’s just a really hardworker. She doesn’t expect glory, really. She’s that player that will run through a wall for you, and whenever you need her, she’s there. She’s giving it her all because she wants to do it for her team. She does all the dirty work and doesn’t ask for any recognition,” said Head Coach Lindsay Vasiliadis.
“She’s the glue of our team, and without her it’d be very tough,” she added.
Like most, Griswold started playing soccer very young. Like
some, she started competing on high-level club teams. And unlike many, she made the varsity team as a freshman, a 14-year-old competing against 18-year-old seniors.
Though she came into her first season hoping to make the JV team – maybe becoming a swing and seeing the field once or twice during the season –she earned significant varsity minutes right away, playing an important role for a good Shrewsbury team.
A year earlier, she was an eighth-grader watching the Colonials. Now, she was one herself: “It was intimidating because those girls are so much older, but I always had this thing where I knew I was meant to be here,” said Griswold.
As a center back, sometimes playing defensive-midfield, counting stats are rare for Griswold. But goals and as -
sists aren’t everything, and Griswold has become an irreplaceable part of the Colonials’ team, breaking up attacks, playing great defense, and doing whatever it takes to keep her team together.
It doesn’t get any headlines, but that’s fine with Griswold.
“I’m not looking for the glory of the most assists, most goals. I like doing the dirty work. Shout-out to my parents: They give me a lot of recognition, even if I’m not getting it from the scoreboard. I’m always playing for the girl next to me,” she said.
Elected captain her junior and senior years, Griswold is just as lauded for her leadership ability. She led Shrewsbury through a coaching change between her sophomore and junior seasons, and, playing with several talented underclassmen, models the behavior that has made the Colonials a
excellent group in 2025.
“I love the people. Every single team I’m on, everyone is so into it. It’s the culture. I like that every part of soccer isn’t individual – everything comes from something else,” said Griswold. “It’s a really nice group of girls. It’s been really easy to lead – we’re pretty good communicators, we delegate when we have to. For
the summer to prepare, we did captains’ practices, summer league teams. I think that really set us up well.” Added Vasiliadis: “We know we can count on her. She’s a great role model for the younger girls – she always gives 100 percent. She’s a vocal leader, but she’s also a leader by example. The girls look up to her and respect her. She’s someone they really look up to.”
Griswold never wanted her soccer career to end. This May, she committed to play Division 2 soccer at Assumption University. She’s excited to compete for Head Coach Chip Warner and the rest of the Greyhounds, many of whom she’s already met. Griswold plans to major in nursing at Assumption.
A burgeoning program, Grafton field hockey shows its
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
GRAFTON — After the postgame huddle broke, the Grafton field hockey team welcomed some special guests.
As the Gators celebrated their convincing 8-0 win over Oxford on Oct. 17, some of their biggest fans ran onto the field to join them. With large signs, other gifts, and infectious enthusiasm, a group of a half-dozen Grafton youth field hockey players greeted their “big sisters” with pride.
It’s exactly what Head Coach Melissa Aiksnoras had envisioned. With a young team — comprised of mostly freshmen and sophomores, with a handful of upperclassmen — Aiksnoras is dedicated to developing Grafton’s field hockey infrastructure, ensuring that the Gators remain competitive for years to come.
The big win over Oxford was just the latest victory for her burgeoning program.
“We’ve been working a ton on our passing — a lot of ‘give and gos,’ moving to the ball, coming in front of them, blocking up the free hits. All fall, we’ve been playing a ton of crazy hard teams, so the more we move the ball, the less likely they’re going to come get it,” Aiksnoras said.
The going hasn’t always been easy for the Gators: After a successful 9-7-2 season last year, Grafton moved to the Midland-Wachusett League, and in doing so, beefed up its schedule.
This year’s 4-10 record isn’t particularly impressive, but hidden beneath that record is a series of competitive losses against some of the state’s best teams. Young as they are, the Gators have found ways to fight.
In each loss, there’s continuous improvement. And Aiksnoras’ athletes continue to grow.
“They’re fantastic athletes. They’re super hardworking, they’re here every single day. They want to grow the program, and our program is growing. This is a future thing; we’re building this program. We don’t want perfection, we just want improvements, game after game. That’s exactly what we’ve done,” she said.
Against Oxford, the Gators had an opportunity to show that improvement. Addie McGrath, the team’s star sophomore, notched four goals. Fellow sophomore Olivia Foltz
scored two goals, with contributions from Piper Bresnahan and Riya Mukherjee. Assists came from Izzy Richardson, Alexa Clements, Sophia Barroso, and Yuki Wong.
“We all just showcased our skills. Everyone got in. Everyone played a lot. I feel like we worked really hard during the season, and this just showcased everything we worked for. Everyone played so well,” said McGrath. “It’s really all mental. We just have to know we can do it, know we can stay in there. We work really hard in practice to compete with all these good teams.”
And, like Aiksnoras, the Grafton players care about the future of the program. In addition to building a relationship with their “little sisters,” many Gators help coach the youth team, which is in its inaugural season. With the help of their older mentors, the younger athletes will keep the Grafton field hockey program strong.
“We’re starting here, and it’s going to grow,” said Foltz.
Hat tricks from Queenan and Klein lift Westborough
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
WESTBOROUGH – Lauren Klein won the footrace, eyed the goal, and placed her shot beautifully into the bottomleft corner. Five minutes later, Klein was alone as she raced down the field and once again went bottom-left. In the second half, she collected a rebound and tapped it past the goalkeeper.
Off a perfect pass from Nora Vallee, Caroline Queenan delivered a strike. Late in the second half, she picked the pocket of a defender and sent the ball into the back of the net, and to close the game, Queenan dodged defenders for 40 yards, deked the goaltender, and nobody stood between her and another goal.
Klein and Queenan had a hat trick apiece against Blackstone Valley RVT on Oct. 18, leading the Westborough girls’ soccer team to a 6-0 win on a sunny afternoon at Joseph R. Mewhiney Field.
With the victory, the Rangers improve to 8-1-4.
“We just played really well as a team, trying to find all our players, working together and pushing up as a team. Everyone — from the bench to on-the-field — played their best role in the game, giving the energy. That helped a lot,” said Queenan.
Added Klein: “It’s our team chemistry overall. We’re all really good friends, and we’ve been playing together for a really long time. The amount of effort we put into practice is really intense. It translates really well to the field.”
After a stellar season last year that featured a 12-4-1 record, CMADA Class A championship, and MIAA Division 2 semifinal berth, the Rangers graduated an excellent group of seniors. Though this season features fresh faces, new leaders, and athletes stepping into increased roles, Westborough has still enjoyed success.
Much of the credit goes to yet another strong group of se-
niors: Vallee, Queenan, Klein, Jessica Braden, Sophia Basta, Cam Veiby, Mae Abraham, Kendra Feder, Cate Maul, and manager Aurea Bhatia.
A group of excellent upperclassmen has become a hallmark of Westborough girls’ soccer.
“What’s really interesting about Westborough is we do a really great job in a lot of different areas to prepare kids to be athletes, as well as great students,” said Head Coach Scott Moroney. “Collectively, the seniors every year do a great job, and I think that’s a credit to the school. As I’m watching the game today, I’m seeing some of the younger players, and they’re emulating the things our current seniors are doing. It’s a testament to the way the school prepares kids to succeed.”
And although the win over BVT was nice, the Rangers expect to get right back to work as they head into the homestretch of their season. After that, they’ll look forward
to another postseason appearance.
The team refuses to rest on its laurels.
“Every game is a challenge. Give BVT a lot of credit — it wasn’t easy. We had to work for everything. You can’t get comfortable, because you have to stay at a certain level. The next game, if you come out with what worked in the last game, you’re cooked. You can’t do that,” said Moroney.
Lauren Klein scored three goals. (Photo/Evan Walsh)
