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marlborough | 9 marlborough | 24
Marlborough Hudson
City Council revisits 90-unit development
By Paul Hopkins Reporter
MARLBOROUGH – The City Council is being asked (again) to approve an overlay district to allow construction of a 90-unit condominium complex at the intersection of Ames Street and Forest Avenue.
The Gutierrez Company and the Marlborough/Northborough Realty Trust envision two four-story buildings with 90 “agetargeted” units that would be an alternative to a single-family home subdivision. Their attorney, Brian Falk, said the plan presented on Oct. 20 would concentrate development of the site, preserving about four acres of wooded land and providing a buffer for neighbors.
The project is back before the City Council after it rejected the developer’s ask for the overlay district in September.
Falk indicated the development would be attractive to those looking to downsize, as opposed to those with children who would use the schools. He said that based on feedback from neighbors, the proposal was scaled back 25 percent to 90 units, with a reduced number of buildings and a consolidated layout. The buildings would have elevators and some covered parking.
Several people spoke in favor of the zoning amendment. One abutter, Marguerite Sawyer, said she has lived nearby for many years: “This is the best plan. It keeps the integrity of the neighborhood, it keeps the green space, and would actually help with noise.”
Another neighbor, Fred Meyer, who
Upcoming Events!
Meet the new Quinn Middle School principal
‘I want it to be a place families want their children to attend’
By Paul Hopkins Reporter
HUDSON – Dr. Timothy Frazier, the new principal at Quinn Middle School in Hudson, was seeing off the last students at the end of another school day. It’s where he likes to be.
Mornings and afternoons are his favorites. “In the morning we walk in and kids are in there getting breakfast, telling us about the day before, talking about their football game or soccer game.”
After that, students spend a few minutes in homeroom, which has been brought back this year. “It’s a touch point,” says Frazier, adding that two staff members are in each homeroom to conduct the daily check-in.
“In middle school we are supporting the whole life of a child — academics, their growth in finding their identity,” said Frazier.
Frazier | 6
Dr. Timothy Frazier (Photo/Paul Hopkins)
Hudson receives $1.4 million in PFAS settlement
By Paul Hopkins Reporter
HUDSON – Hudson has received $1.4 million in the first two installments resulting from court action over PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” that shut down a town well in 2019. More money is forthcoming for a total of nearly $2.9 million.
In a document posted to the town website, Hudson officials say, “In June and October, the Town received the first two disbursements in this settlement, totaling $1,400,904.10. Additional disbursements will be received at later dates.” Based on state guidance, the town has put the funds in a “special revenue fund” that can be used by Town Meeting in the future
Saturday, November 8th 10am-2pm: 3rd Generation Silhouette Artist ERIK JOHNSON Silhouettes make great gifts! They only take a few minutes to create and last a lifetime.
November 15th from 11:30am12:30pm: The Treasure book event with Lynn Carriker & Family
Saturday, November 15th from 10am-1pm: When Nursing Was Fun: Volume II book signing with Ann Watt Saturday, November 9th from 11am-2pm: Flight of the Osprey book signing with Krissy Lanier
Wenzel | 14
Continuing cultural immersion in Akiruno
marlborough at a glance
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Northborough Helping Hands launches annual holiday campaign
By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter
NORTHBOROUGH — As the holidays quickly approach, the Northborough Helping Hands Association (NHHA) is launching its annual “Making Spirits Bright” campaign for local families in need.
For over 20 years, in collaboration with local human service programs, the NHHA has identified Northborough families and individuals in need of support during the holiday season.
The NHHA is raising funds to provide gift cards to parents, allowing them to purchase clothing or a toy from their child’s wish list. Grocery gift cards will also be distributed to senior citizens and others in need.
The gift card drive began during the COVID-19 pandemic; NHHA organizers found it gave recipients the freedom to tailor the donation to their needs.
OLD WORLD VS NEW WORLD WINES
“These are people who often don’t get a chance to make a lot of choices,” said Colleen Lupien, who helps facilitate the “Making Spirits Bright” campaign. “By us giving them gift cards, it’s up to them. Now, they can go and get what their child wants, and they can pick the right color, and they can pick the right size, and they can pick the right toy.”
NHHA is also running its annual coat drive as part of the campaign. The drive asks residents to sponsor a coat for a child under 18, which are distributed at NHHA’s annual Thanksgiving event.
“If a kid is out there cold at recess, there’s no reason for them not to have a coat. So I’m glad that the community can help provide that,” said cochair Pam Hodge. Donations can be made online at www.northboroughhelpinghands.org. To sponsor a coat, email coats@northboroughhelpinghands.org.
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Old World wines come from long established European regions like France, Italy, and Spain. They often taste lighter, more acidic, and mineral focused. Labels usually highlight the region, showing how the land and tradition shape the wine. New World wines, from the USA, Australia, Chile, and South Africa, tend to be richer, fruitier, with higher alcohol and softer acidity. Labels typically name the grape variety, making it easier to know what’s inside. Old World winemaking leans on centuries of tradition, focusing on terroir and subtle balance. New World winemaking embraces modern tools, like temperature controlled tanks and precise technology, to highlight bold flavors. Old World wines are often crafted for long aging, while New World wines are usually meant to be enjoyed young.
If you happen to visit JULIO’S LIQUORS , one thing you will immediately notice is our extensive selection of wines from all over the globe. You will see many of your old favorites at highly competitive prices, alongside carefully selected, exciting wines of complexity and individuality at a wide range of prices. Our staff boasts decades of experience from many facets of the food and beverage and wine industries. For more information, please call 508-366-1942 or visit at 140 Turnpike Rd., Rt. 9 East.
P.S. Old World wines pair beautifully with food, while New World wines shine on their own with fresh, vibrant fruit notes.
If you like our Un-cork’d article every week, check out our radio show & podcast –
Liquor
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Quorum reduced for November Town Meeting
By Paul Hopkins Reporter
HUDSON – The Select Board agreed on Oct. 20 to reduce the quorum for the November Special Town Meeting to 50. This is the second such action this year – and a move to ensure routine business can get done.
And that’s the problem: the agenda for Nov. 17 is mostly routine business, and experience has shown Hudson voters are less willing to head out for the mundane.
Town Moderator Michele Tousignant and Town Clerk Joan Wordell once again testified to the Select Board that reducing the quorum would not discourage attendance, and may in fact boost it. Wordell said it may encourage people to participate because there is a greater likelihood the meeting will start on time, without delays and a scramble
to find additional voters at the last minute to fill seats.
Tousignant also noted that there have been several town meetings this year, which may be leading to “burnout.”
The moderator said there are no “big movers” among the six articles, some of which deal with making common budget adjustments. There is a proposed amendment to the non-recyclable plastic waste bylaw, and an ar -
ticle formally establishing the Internal Traffic Committee. Article 4 asks voters to use $187,000 in Community Preservation Funds for three separate needs, including housing preservation, housing crisis prevention, and an engineering survey for the Taylor Memorial Bridge. The 100-year-old bridge spans the Assabet River to connect Wood Park and Apsley Park. Wordell has noted that a
few towns in Massachusetts set no minimum attendance. She believes that the main drivers for getting people to Town Meeting are the issues to be addressed, childcare, and transportation.
Board member Diane Bemis said regardless of the content of the warrant, it’s important to get the business done and supported the reduced quorum. She noted that the last request was to
lower the quorum to 75, and now to 50. “We are getting to your zero, Joan,” she laughed. “We’re taking little steps.” She said she would support a smaller quorum “for this meeting alone.” The town normally requires 150 voters before business can proceed.
The final vote was 4-1 to cut the quorum to 50 for this one meeting. Board member Lauren DuBreuil opposed the measure, as she has in the past.
The board took similar action this summer for a September Special Town Meeting, reducing the quorum to 75 for that meeting. At the time DuBreuil felt lowering the threshold would imply that meetings are not important and urged the town to look at ways to boost participation.
The Special Town Meeting is Monday, Nov. 17 at 7:30 p.m. at Hudson High School.
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Help local families this holiday season with the gift of food.
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Scan Here for Info & to Donate to Local Food Banks
Working with the emergency food network of meal sites, pantries, shelters and other organizations, the food banks provide meals to our neighbors in need.
‘I want it to be a place families want their children to attend’
“And that’s what’s wonderful about middle school. We help them find their voice, their personality.”
Quinn serves 530 students in grades five through seven. Frazier knows what every parent of an adolescent knows: these years are formative and they can be messy. “All of those ebbs and flows that come with being a middle-schooler — we’re here to support them with teams of teachers who genuinely care about the kids,” he says.
Frazier believes having fifththrough seventh-grade levels at Quinn — as opposed to a traditional sixth- through eighth-grade structure — is an advantage. He said middleschool educators get a different perspective of a student; at Quinn, students have a team of teachers who support them throughout the day in different subject areas.
Frazier is already thinking ahead. “I want this school to continue to be a place where students and staff feel safe, that expectations are high but clear.
I want to see people asking to put their kids in our school, I want it to be a place that families want their children to attend. I think we have the staff to do that.”
Like any good educator, Frazier has some thoughts — “a lot of them” — on artificial intelligence in and out of the classroom. “We are in one of those moments where AI is either the
And that’s what’s wonderful about middle school. We help them find their voice, their personality.
next tool or the next challenge,” he says. “With our students, they are going to look at it as a tool,” He recalled when spellcheck features were introduced, and being told spell-check was cheating. And he vividly remembers a math teacher holding up a calculator and saying “you won’t always have one of these in your pocket.”
He cautions, “If we’re not
“ “
careful, because it’s so powerful, we won’t enable our students to use it as a tool. As we are figuring this out as a state and a nation, I advocate for focusing on the process of learning, not the product.” He said the focus should be on giving feedback on the components and the process, not waiting until the end to put eyes on the work and grade it.
Frazier “lives middle school every day.” He and his wife have children ages 12, 13, and 14. “They’re everything to me,” he said, adding they have a busy hockey schedule, but life with three middle-schoolers means Frazier can really connect with parents.
Frazier grew up in Leominster and headed north to the University of Vermont for his undergraduate years. With his degree in education, he launched right into the field, teaching middle-school social studies at Seven Hills Charter School in Worcester for two years. That was followed by eight years in Sutton, and three years as an assistant principal in Foxborough.
He holds a master’s degree in Education Curriculum and Instruction from Western New England University and his doctorate in Education Leadership from Lesley University. He has a passion for history, especially American history, and loves to read biographies of different figures. “It’s a great way to understand how to approach things in your own life,” he said.
Hudson receives $1.4 million in PFAS settlement money
“for any purpose required pursuant to the settlement agreement.”
Town Manager Thomas Gregory told the Community Advocate, “This settlement will have a direct benefit to the water ratepayers in Hudson. It builds on the strategic infrastructure investments that
the Town continues to make to ensure the provision of safe drinking water to residents and business owners.”
Select Board Chairman Scott Duplisea said “any monies we can get in regards to PFAS remediation is very helpful. I wish the contamination never happened, but it did, and we have to deal with it accordingly.”
Select Board Clerk Steven Sharek, reached by the Advocate, said, “As I understand it, we’re going to have ongoing expenses related to the PFAS problem for years to come. This settlement will help us cover some of those costs and take some of the burden off ratepayers.”
Hudson and other communities sued manufactur -
ers of PFAS, including 3M, DuPont, and Tyco/BASF. The chemicals are now found in most aspects of everyday life, including food packaging, non-stick cookware, and firefighting foam. They are also detected in the ground and often groundwater.
Earlier this year, Hudson was told it would receive just under $2.9 million “before a reduction for costs and/or fees.”
The town’s statement says, “A recommendation on a strategy to deploy these funds is being developed by the Town Manager and Director of Public Works which will be presented to the Select Board and, ultimately, to Town Meeting next May.”
Earlier this year, Gregory told the Select Board he would like to see the settlement money used “over some period of time to moderate water rate increases.” He said the money could be used “for anything related to the water system, for water main improvements or purchasing
new equipment.” But as noted in the public statement, Town Meeting has the final say on how the money is spent, within the requirements of the settlement agreement.
In multiple meetings and settings, town officials have stressed that actions taken since PFAS was first detected have resulted in clean, safe water.
Hudson and other communities sued several manufacturers of PFAS after levels of the potentially toxic chemicals were found in water originating from the Cranberry Bog Well, which was disconnected. PFAS had been above the 70 parts-per-trillion level that would trigger a health advisory, but then dropped to acceptable levels. In the meantime, Hudson invested $1.25 million to install a filtration system in 2022; it replaced a temporary system that was installed in 2019 several months after the problem was detected. For a time, the town provided bottled drinking water.
PFAS | from page 1
Frazier | from page 1
Hudson’s David J. Quinn Middle School has a new leader. (File Photo)
Northborough Lyceum was community center during the 19th century
NORTHBOROUGH THEN NOW
By Alexandra Molnar History Columnist
NORTHBOROUGH – The Northborough Lyceum was an important venue for informing the community about significant issues of the time, as well as for debating topics related to subjects that were at the forefront of residents’ minds, like abolition.
The concept of a lyceum emerged in 1826 by Josiah Holbrook of Connecticut as a place to share information in the community and apply the sciences and education to “domestic and useful arts” through lectures and debates during long New England winter evenings. The Northborough Lyceum was largely organized by town minister Dr. Joseph Allen and housed in the
Town House (aka Town Hall).
The operational costs were defrayed by residents purchasing season tickets – which were $1.50 – to attend.
We know from sources, such as a diary and Northborough’s first newspaper The Meteor, that lectures occurred weekly and addressed a range of issues like geology and money, with residents sometimes contemplating life itself. Debates included questions like, “Has man or woman been the greatest influence in forming the character of society?” and “Is forcible resistance to the government in any case justifiable?”
Starting in 1834, anti-slavery conversations became widespread in Northborough and residents petitioned to use the Town House space more frequently for lectures on slavery. African American abolitionist Frederick Douglass, who escaped slavery in Maryland and moved to
New Bedford in 1838, was one such lecturer on Dec. 8, 1868, which we know thanks to the transcribed journal of Hezikiah Higgins Crosby.
The Lyceum activities can be directly tied to anti-slavery actions in town, such as a petition signed by 172 voters in June 1848 “to vote for no man [president or vice president] who is not known to be opposed to the further extension of slavery.” At the time, the town’s population was around 1,500.
William Wells Brown, who was born into slavery in 1816 and escaped when he was in his early twenties, spoke in Northborough in 1848.
Other speakers include William and Ellen Craft – a cabinet-maker and maid, respectively – who escaped from slavery in Georgia. William later wrote an account of their escape, “Running a Thousand Miles for Freedom,” that was published in London, where the couple ultimately resided.
The Crafts lectured in Norwich, Worcester, Pawtucket, New Bedford, Boston, Kingston, and Abington; the fact that they came to the smaller town of Northborough is evidence of the town’s reputation as an anti-slavery stronghold.
The Lyceum ceased op -
Shrewsbury’s Burns Bridge hits the decade mark
eration around 1860, likely due to the Civil War, which drew young working men, the principal beneficiaries of the Lyceum, away from town. It was revived in 1873 with more of a focus on social life and performing arts, but then fully stopped existing after 1879.
SHREWSBURY THEN NOW jects.
By Michael Perna Jr. History Columnist
SHREWSBURY – Ten years ago, the Kenneth Burns Memorial Bridge, which spans Lake Quinsigamond between Worcester and Shrewsbury, was completed. A beautiful dedication ceremony was held on Nov. 1, 2015. The speaker was then-Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito, along with a number of other local dignitaries.
During the ceremony, several features of the new bridge were highlighted – these included the “sails” that are mounted on each corner of the structure, the elaborate lighting that can be programmed, the panels dedicated to Kenneth Burns and his legacy, and the eight panels that are shaped like crew-racing shells and mounted on what were described as “bumped out viewing areas” with seating. The panels each address a different historical topic, such as rowing, the White City Amusement Park, recreation at the “Lake,” the history of Worcester and Shrewsbury, and other sub -
Besides the speakers, the ceremony, which attracted an estimated 20,000 people, concluded with a bridge-lighting ceremony and an elaborate fireworks display.
In the years following its dedication, both the historical panels and brilliant lighting displays have proven to be extremely popular features, with many favorable comments heard from not only local residents but visitors from all over.
Interestingly, the current bridge design is very similar to a bridge that had been pro-
posed in 1898.
The Burns Bridge replaced the concrete bridge that had spanned the “Lake” in the same spot for the previous century. The construction of that bridge began in 1916, replacing the dirt causeway that had been in place for many years prior. The old bridge was dedicated on July 31, 1919, with a ceremony attended by an estimated 25,000 people. Features of the ceremony included a boat parade, singing, band concerts on either end of the bridge, and fireworks.
The ”Causeway” had been
put in place during the Civil War, with wagonloads of dirt being dumped into the “Lake.”
One unfortunate incident occurred when a horse pulling one of the wagons toppled into the lake and drowned. One opening, with a small bridge over it, was left near the Worcester shore to allow for small boats to move across the lake.
Prior to the Causeway, the history of crossing Lake Quinsigamond goes back even farther. When the Boston and Worcester Turnpike was first proposed in 1806, provisions
were included for a floating bridge across Lake Quinsigamond. The bridge was built in floating sections, then joined together at a cost of $9,000. This bridge was not stable due to the sections “bobbing up and down like a cork” as heavy wagon loads passed over. It was then proposed that a bridge made of wooden piers that would be sunk down to the bottom of the lake be built. As the bridge was being built, the wood used for the piers was too buoyant. On Sept. 19, 1817, the bridge collapsed, sending timber across the lake.
Share your joy with God in prayer while the sun shines and there will be no anxiety when the storm comes. Be sensitive to the whisperings and stirrings of the Holy Spirit in your life and face the future with faith and hope.
Lord, let Your kindly light guide me. Help me to understand that I should take one day at a time and seek Your guidance in everything I do.
Sponsored by Chief Joseph Robert J. Terkanian, P.O.
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Thought the Market Passed You By? Think Again.
Elaine Quigley, CBR, CRS, GRI
Elaine.Quigley@commonmoves.com
Cell: (508) 735-5161
www.EQRE.com
If you stepped back from your home search over the past few years, you’re not alone – and you’re definitely not out of options. In fact, now might be the ideal time to take another look. With more homes to choose from, prices leveling off in many areas, and mortgage rates easing, today’s market is offering something you haven’t had in a while: options.
Experts agree, buyers are in a better spot right now than they’ve been in quite a long time. Here’s what they have to say.
Affordability Is Finally Improving
Lisa Sturtevant, Chief Economist at Bright MLS, says affordability is finally starting to turn the corner:
“Slower price growth coupled with a slight drop in mortgage rates will improve affordability and create a window for some buyers to get into the market.”
Mortgage rates have eased from their recent highs, price growth has slowed, and that one-two combo is making homes more affordable than they’ve been in months.
There Are More Homes on The Market
And a big reason prices are easing is because there are more homes on the market. According to the latest from Realtor. com, there are 17% more homes for sale today than there
were at this time last year. That means more options, less competition with other buyers, and a chance to find the space that actually works for you.
Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), shares:
“Homebuyers are in the best position in more than five years to find the right home and negotiate for a better price. Current inventory is at its highest since May 2020, during the COVID lockdown.”
Take a look at the numbers.
As Yun notes, inventory is up everywhere. Compared to this time last year, every region of the country has more homes on the market than at this time last year (see graph below):
That translates to more homes to choose from, whether you’re looking for a bigger backyard, a shorter commute, or finally ditching your rental.
But not all markets are the same…
When you compare current inventory growth to pre-pandemic norms (2017–2019), the picture changes a bit, depending on where you are. Supply is still tighter in the Northeast and Midwest where inventory is s till below normal.
And here’s why that’s still a win everywhere.
When you step back and look at the bigger picture, with inventory up in every region, that means more choices everywhere, even if some areas have more homes for sale than others.
And with fewer buyers in the market and more homes for sale, sellers are willing to negotiate to get a deal done.
All of that adds up to a win for today’s buyers. And it’s also why working with a local expert really makes a difference. What’s happening in your zip code or neighborhood might look different than the national or regional trend. But the overall takeaway is clear: with more homes on the market, buyers have more leverage than they did a year or more ago. So, if you stepped away from your search because things felt too competitive, too pricey, you were worried about finding a home, or it was all just too much to process, this could be your moment to take another look.
And if you’re not quite ready to go all in, that’s okay too. You can start by planning ahead. That means working with a trusted agent who
help you break down your budget, narrow your search, and make sure you’re prepped and ready.
Tax rate drops, but values rise in Shrewsbury
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – After a presentation from Principal Assessor Ruth Anderson, the Shrewsbury Select Board on Oct. 28 voted to set the fiscal 2026 tax rate at $11.50, approximately 4.49 percent lower than fiscal year 2025’s rate of $12.04.
The tax rate in Shrewsbury has steadily declined over the years. In fiscal 2022, the rate was set at $14.11; in 2023, the rate was $13.12; in 2024, the rate was $12.39. The tax rate is determined by dividing the total amount needed to be collected in taxes by the town’s taxable value.
The tax rate drop doesn’t necessarily mean that taxes will drop, however. Assessment valuations have increased in recent years: the average single-family tax bill is expected to increase 2.84 percent to $8,753 in fiscal 2026, and the average singlefamily home value is expected to climb 7.67 percent.
In other words, the tax rate has dropped because there’s more to tax. Valuations are expected to increase by over $750 million into fiscal 2026, a jump of 8.07 percent. Shrewsbury has 13,265 parcels and over $10 billion in taxable value, according to Anderson.
“Anyone who wonders
[about] their valuation needs to understand that the law instructs us to assess at 100 percent of fair market value, and the market has jumped considerably,” said Anderson.
She added: “The perception is often very incorrect. People think that the town is out to stick it to them, money grab, that kind of a thing. Nothing could be further from the truth. The reason [the Assessor’s Office] is out in the field is so we know they’re assessed correctly – so that nobody is being assessed for something they don’t have, and nobody is not being assessed for something they do have. When everybody is assessed for what they have, that’s fair and equitable.”
Overall, the maximum allowable levy this year is $115,571,339, and Shrewsbury expects to collect around that amount. The levy, which funds approximately 60 percent of the annual budget, is 88 percent funded by residential properties and 7 percent funded by commercial or industrial uses.
The Select Board, with Theresa Flynn and Michelle Conlin absent, voted to maintain Shrewsbury’s single tax rate. A dual tax rate could’ve shifted some of the tax burden to commercial and industrial uses, but risked making the town less attractive to potential businesses.
Hot dogs coming to Solomon Pond Mall
MARLBOROUGH — The Solomon Pond Mall’s food court is set for a major addition.
According to a Facebook post from the mall, The Dogfather is set to open in the food court. The hot dog purveyor started as a food truck in 2010 and has since become a familiar sight around Central Massachusetts.
“The Dogfather is familyowned and operated right here in Worcester, MA,” the company’s website reads. “Other trucks may offer similar products, but none of them come with our commitment to quality and originality. Every hotdog is made to
Your Money, Your Independence
Open Enrollment 2026: Medical Plans & HSAs Planning
November is a pivotal month for financial planning — the time to measure progress, make final strategic tax decisions for 2025, and prepare for 2026. Wait until December, and your finances might get lost somewhere between pumpkin pie and ugly holiday sweaters.
Here’s what you do now to stay in control.
1. Review Your Planning Goals
Have you met savings and investment targets? Paid down debt? Improved spending habits? Reviewing your progress helps identify what to accelerate before December 31 and where to focus in 2026.
2. Tax Planning Strategies
November is ideal for evaluating tax opportunities while there’s still time to act.
•Does a Roth conversion or switching future 401(k) contributions to Roth make sense?
•If converting, what’s your projected 2025 tax bracket, and how much room remains before moving up a bracket?
• Are you or a grandparent planning to gift more than $19,000 to a child’s 529 Plan?
• Are you self-employed and opening a Solo 401(k)?
The plan must be created by December 31, though contributions can be made until your 2026 tax-filing deadline.
Regulatory Update & Gifting: The OBBB Act of 2025 made many TCJA provisions permanent, including lower income tax brackets and the higher standard deduction, so the expected 2026 “rate reset” won’t occur. Some temporary provisions — like higher SALT deduction limits and expanded child/education incentives — phase down later. Consider whether realizing income, Roth conversions, or charitable deductions in 2025 could improve your long-term tax plan.
The annual gift tax exclusion remains $19,000 per recipient for 2025, and the federal lifetime gift and estate tax exemption rises to $15 million per individual starting January 1, 2026. The top estate and gift tax rate stays 40%.
3. Open Enrollment and Workplace Benefits
Open enrollment is your yearly chance to review benefits:
• Does your health plan still meet your needs?
• Should you fund an HSA or FSA for pre-tax medical savings?
• Do supplemental life, disability, or dependent care benefits make sense?
Use Your FSA Before It Expires: FSAs are “use-it-orlose-it.” For 2025, employers may allow up to $660 to carry over into 2026, or a 2½-month grace period— not both. If you don’t use it, it’s gone — unlike that leftover Halloween candy you somehow keep eating through March.
4. Evaluate Your Investment Portfolio
Review your asset allocation and rebalance if needed. Diversification across asset classes — not just equities — helps manage risk.
If nearing retirement or expecting major expenses, plan how to access funds efficiently. Tailor your strategy by account type (taxable, traditional, Roth, HSA) to balance liquidity, growth, and tax efficiency.
5. Cash Flow & Emergency Savings
Review cash flow and savings. Retirees using a Bucket Strategy should replenish cash to cover short-term income gaps over 2–3 years. Working individuals should maintain 3–4 months of liquidity and access to credit (e.g., HELOC) for unexpected expenses.
6. Don’t Forget Your RMDs
For 2025, the Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) age remains 73. Inherited IRAs from non-spouses after 2019 require annual RMDs within the 10-year rule. Penalties have been waived through 2025 but take effect January 1, 2026.
Conclusion
November is a month for reflection, gratitude, and preparation. Reviewing finances now can set you up for a stronger 2026 — and help you avoid that awkward moment when you realize you splurged on “holiday gifts” for yourself.
If you’re unsure where to start, connect with your Certified Financial Planner® to finish 2025 strong and position yourself for success in the year ahead.
The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.
Glenn Brown lives in MetroWest and is owner of PlanDynamic, LLC, www.PlanDynamic.com. He is a feeonly Certified Financial Planner™ helping motivated people take control of their planning and investing, so they can balance kids, aging parents and financial independence.
order and must be perfect every time.”
The website continues:
“The self-proclaimed Lord Emperor of Hotdog Nation, Mark Gallant, is constantly creating new and exotic hotdog recipes. He has a proprietary method of cooking the Kayem natural casing hotdogs that seals in the juices and makes them pop with flavor and freshness.”
Glenn Brown, CFP
City Council revisits 90-unit development
said he lived closest to the plot, agreed this development would produce less noise than single-family homes and called it “the best proposal we have for the land.” He said the four-story building would not bother him, and said, “We’re the people who have to live with whatever winds up being
built, and we want it quiet.”
And Beverly Broz said she appreciates the effort to keep green space and said this proposal would be “less invasive.”
“Once taken away, that green space would never come back.
… There are still a lot of animals running through those woods. You’d be surprised to learn what we have, and to
lose that would be just awful.”
John Walters of Teller Street also supported the preservation of green space, and said he hopes to be able to tell his two young children that they were able to preserve the land for the future.
Councilor Mark Oram said the developer “can’t guarantee” there will be no families
JULIO’S
with children, given that all the units would be two-bedroom apartments. He said, “Is it because you don’t provide a playground that you’re saying you wouldn’t attract children?”
(subject
Grappa di Amarone
Grappa di Barolo 12yr
Grappa di Barolo 20yr
Grappa di Barbaresco Rabaja 2006 (12yr)
Grappa di Barbaresco Bussia 2007 (14yr)
Grappa di Moscato
Grappa di Moscato 5yr “Dopo”
“Milla” Grappa
Falk argued the plan “is not designed to have the types of amenities” that draw families and “the goal is a place for folks to downsize. Area residents don’t have a lot of options and this is a good option for them.”
Falk’s financial projections argued that the proposal would have zero effect on school costs, while a singlefamily home development would add $287,000 in school expenses.
Councilor Oram also asked if a “balloon test” had been performed to show neighbors how tall the structures would be. Falk said that could be included in the process.
Real Estate Transactions
5
25
10
$449,000
$620,000
$1,525,000
NORTHBOROUGH 15 Verjuniel Avenue
285 Green Street
27 Jethro Peters Lane
SOUTHBOROUGH
9 Oregon Road
57 Southville Road
$865,000 Michelle T. Hirsch Nicholas Nitschke, Jeanne M. Nitschke
$1,525,000 Kingdom Development LLC
$940,000 John M. Testa, Kim E. Testa Brian L. Fallon Trust
$995,000 Mark Euler, Sharon Euler Jared Barczak, Katherine Barczak
$609,500 Jennifer Stange, Kelvin Santos Lauren M. Bloom, Patrick N. Theile
$620,000 Chaching Co
Valley Road $906,000 Johann F. Reitshamer
GRAFTON
Stratton Road
Truong
$525,000 Thomas E. French, Bonnie A. French
C. O'Hara 201 Old Westboro Road $751,000
MARLBOROUGH
HUDSON
34 High Street
129 Fort Meadow Drive
30 Harriman Road
46 Temi Road
$1,475,000
$685,000
$550,000 Robert Yorston
$790,000 Noel Warwick
Scafidi, Karen Scafidi
Catherine M. Moore
New and popular Westborough restaurant officially opens
By Leighah Beausoleil Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH — When Tavolino unexpectedly closed back in February, the first question on everyone’s minds was: “What happened?”
The second question: “What’s going to take over the spot at 33 East Main Street?”
Landlord Randy Waterman said he was just as shocked as everyone else about the closure and remembers receiving a call from the town urging him to find a replacement.
His wife, Deb, noted the last thing Westborough needed was another dollar store, so when a group of individuals came forward proposing the new bistro, known as Brio 33, the Watermans saw it as a nobrainer.
“We knew everybody that’s involved and they knew us, so it just made sense not to go shopping around for somebody else. Let’s try and make this work,” Randy said.
Now, after three weeks of ironing out the final details in their soft opening, the bistro celebrated its official grand
opening on Thursday, Nov. 6.
The five key individuals who approached the Watermans with the idea now serve as the core management team for the restaurant.
Abby Winant, the operations manager, and Kevin Sanders, the executive chef, were both long-time employees of the former business. They joined forces with Gail Hanson, their business manager, Shelby Marshall, their business coach, and Susan Pickering, their Human Resources director.
But finding their team was only the first battle in getting Brio 33 open.
The crew realized the abandoned restaurant was in a bit worse condition than they originally thought and had to put in time, money, and “sweat equity” into getting it just right, along with sorting everything out with the town and lease.
Now, the stove is hot, the music is on, and the calls for event reservations have been endless.
“I’m just very, very proud of how far we’ve come and things are going to get better and bet-
ter,” Winant said.
Sanders highlighted that all of Brio 33’s menu items are created from scratch using raw ingredients, adding the bistro takes pride in its freshness and consistency.
He added his kitchen is always open to customer feedback, noting a few adjustments have already been made since the soft opening.
He and Winant aren’t the only former employees at the new business. Hanson said
the bistro has created over 40 jobs, with many positions filled by former Tavolino staff. The management team highlighted the support of the community, which they appreciate as Westborough residents themselves. Everyone has been excitedly asking about the restaurant, with over 700 visiting in the first week of the soft launch, the team noted. “And the feedback has been fantastic,” Marshall said.
“We’re not all here to become billionaires and live at the beach,” Sanders said. “We want this to mean something to the people.”
Caption: Brio 33’s management team (from left) Gail Hanson, Randy Waterman, Kevin Sanders, Abby Winant, Shelby Marshall, and Susan Pickering. (Photos/Leighah Beausoleil)
Students reach new academic heights at MathAltitude
By Leighah Beausoleil Assistant Editor
WORCESTER – In its 16th year of operation, MathAltitude has grown from three students to nearly 300, expanding from two rooms to two floors — from a single subject to a wide range of academic subjects, and last year was recognized by the Mayor of Worcester and the Governor of Massachusetts.
Founded by Shrewsbury residents Olga and Boris Serebrennikov, the academy was a long-time dream for the couple. After two decades in tech, they turned that vision into reality, founding MathAltitude School of Mathematics — a thriving community where students across Central Massachusetts discover the joy of learning.
“Our goal was to enrich the level of math education in the City of Worcester and its surrounding communities,” Olga said. “Our school is located close to one of the finest col-
leges in Worcester, WPI — a university that I had a personal connection to and continue to collaborate with today.”
MathAltitude offers courses for both enrichment and remediation. Olga emphasized that remedial classes aren’t simplified versions of their courses, but are specifically designed to help students reach the next level.
The academy takes an individualized approach, combining the best Russian and European methodologies with the Massachusetts math curriculum framework. Olga highlighted the strong relationship between the academy and local public and private schools, such as Saint John’s and Worcester Academy.
Class sizes are capped at eight, allowing instructors more time for each student.
The Serebrennikovs proudly point out that their instructors are not only qualified and ex perienced, but also dedicated and passionate.
MathAltitude serves stu
dents from preschool through high school seniors, guiding them from basic math skills to advanced courses in algebra, geometry, and calculus.
This approach keeps delivering impressive results— for example, every student from last year’s 10th-grade AP Calculus BC class was accepted into the Massachusetts Academy of Math and Science, and their instructor was later honored by this year’s juniors for having made a lasting impact on their lives.
Beyond math, MathAltitude offers a unique three-year physics program for middle and high school students. They also offer computer science courses for a range of grades, as well as English Language Arts. MathAltitude provides college preparation as well, including SAT prep courses and info sessions for middle and high
its format to include online learning. Today, students can attend classes in-person or remotely, offering families flexibility without compromising instruction.
The Serebrennikovs say they take pride in the close, long-term relationships they form with students and their families. Many students’ pictures are displayed in Olga’s
its leaders,” said Karen Chandler, assistant principal and ELA curriculum coordinator. “The Serebrennikovs’ passion, care, and love for the school is pretty amazing. They love what they do and that has a tremendous impact on the staff and students.”
That passion continues to shape MathAltitude today — a place where learning, community, and care for every student remain at the heart of everything they do. To discover more information, visit mathaltitude.com.
Celebrating Halloween in Downtown Westborough
By Leighah Beausoleil Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH — Down -
town Westborough was crawling with ghouls, ghosts, and iconic characters Tuesday, Oct. 28 as families visited the over 50 businesses and departments participating in this year’s Main Street Trick or Treat.
As holiday-themed music, like “Ghostbusers,” blasted
from her storefront, Seed to Stem’s Virginia Orlando noted how busy the event gets every year with hundreds flocking to Main Street and the surrounding area.
“It was so great to see everyone out in costume having a great time. It’s a nice little community event,” she said, highlighting how involved everyone gets.
Despite the crowd, there was plenty of candy to go
around – and fun activities too, such as the haunted house put on by the Westborough Police Department.
Dressed as Edward Scissorhands because he “likes how he looks,” Henry Solfiell, 9, said he was excited for the trick-or-treating event.
“I just want a lot of candy,” he said, noting his favorite are Milk Duds.
Rowan Gillins, 7, dressed in an inflated Kirby costume, said
he was looking forward to having fun downtown. He said the event was just one of many celebrations he was taking part in this week, with plans to go out on Halloween night followed up by his birthday on Nov. 1.
Westborough celebrates Dia De Los Muertos at Hastings Elementary
By Leighah Beausoleil Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH — Under the glow of the ofrenda’s candlelight, Westborough’s Dalia Izvolsky reminded the community that Dia De Los Muertos is not just about the dead, but also the celebration of the cycle of life.
The celebration is a legacy of the Maya and Aztec civilizations and observed every
Answer the call for kindness this week in Westborough
By Leighah Beausoleil Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH — Join Westborough Connects for its eighth annual Kindness Week set to take place from Nov. 9 to 15.
Events will begin with a kickoff at Westborough High School Sunday, Nov. 9 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., which will feature a book reading and signing with local children’s author Megan Litwin at 2:15 p.m., as well as an instrument petting zoo with the Northborough School of Rock.
Check out what service opportunities are available this year through Westborough Connects’ over 80 Partners in Kindness and get involved with the community.
Can’t make the event? Visit westboroughconnects.org for more.
year, on Nov. 1 and 2, in Mexico and other Central and South American countries. It was the fourth year Izvolsky – the event director, organizer, and sponsor, working with the school department and Westborough Connects – held an event honoring this hispanic tradition.
Dozens gathered at Hastings Elementary on Friday, Oct. 24, where they learned about all the elements and
symbols typically featured on an ofrenda, which is the altar where offerings are placed to welcome spirits of departed loved ones.
Although each ofrenda is unique, it must contain the necessary elements of wind, water, fire, and earth.
Izvolsky said, “It makes me so happy because I think it makes people more welcome. This says, ‘We are here for you – for this community.’ And
they work so hard, so I think they deserve something.”
“I want to thank the Hastings School for allowing us to carry out this beautiful tradition,” Izvolsky added. “I also thank all Westborough Public Schools, the Department of Westborough Youth & Family Services, Westborough Connects, and all the school departments and students who collaborated to make this event possible.”
Westborough Superintendent Allison Borchers and Dalia Izvolsky, event director, organizer, and sponsor, at the Dia de Los Muertos Ofrendo event on Friday, Oct. 24. (Photo/Leighah Beausoleil)
Westborough’s Main Street was a hotspot of Halloween fun. (Photos/Leighah Beausoleil)
Continuing cultural immersion in Akiruno
mersion has been a staple for Marlborough and Akiruno students for over 30 years. Together they experience everyday life and understand all the similarities and differences.
By Mary Wenzel Correspondent
MARLBOROUGH – Marlborough’s Whitcomb Middle School students, participating in the Japanese exchange program, recently traveled to Marlborough’s sister city, Akiruno, Japan. They attended Akiruno Public Schools, lived with host families, and participated in everyday Japanese culture. The full cultural im-
While the date may change, the day never will. It’s the Saturday before Thanksgiving at the church on the hill. This old-fashioned Meeting House Fair will be held Nov. 22, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Homemade baked goods will include apple pies made from scratch, ready to pop in the oven. Look for the Basket Raffle (drawing at 1:30 p.m.), Christmas table, homemade crafts, plants, jewelry, and more. For a snack, you can choose from donuts, brownies, corn chowder, sandwiches, and more.
A Meet and Greet with Linda LeSage, author of “A Cuppa Tea with Miss Jean: Her Life and Legacy,” will be held at the Marlborough Senior Center on Nov. 13, 10 to 11 a.m., with books for sale and signing. Linda was an as-
sociate, friend, and colleague of Miss Jean, the late Jean Beddow-Arnth.
Bella, a barn owl, is the Educational Ambassador for the Giaquinto Wildlife Center in Marlborough. The center is dedicated to rescue, rehabilitation, and release for any animal coming into its care. The center
provides informative programs to people of all ages. For more information go to: www.giaquintowildlifecenter.com
The St. Stephen Lutheran Church Fall Clothing Giveaway (FREE) is scheduled for Nov. 8 at 537 Bolton Street, Marlborough. The church collects clean clothing and acces-
sories in excellent condition. Donations include jewelry, purses, luggage, shoes, boots, winter coats, fleece jackets, sweatshirts, flannel shirts, as well as office and fancy occasion clothing like suits and dresses.
The clothing is displayed in three sections throughout the
Marlborough’s Whitcomb Middle School students have returned from participating in the Japanese exchange program with Akiruno where they visited Marlborough Street. In photo, from left: Andreia Pontes (chaperone), Brooke
Kenney (student), Benjamin Silva (student), Lucy Lawrence (student), Andrew Thain (advisor), Logan Hurley (student), Wyatt Buckley (student), and Jennifer Smith (advisor). (Photo/Courtesy)
is the Educational
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
Oct. 27 Ron Dalbec
Nov. 1 Earthquake in Marlborough in 1761
Nov. 7 Peggy Ayres
Nov. 8 Mary Cappadona, Nancy Dalbec, Oliver Pope, and Beverly Fiske
Nov. 10 Aaron Dalbec and Dom Valarioti
Nov. 11 Frank Marino, Roberta Collins, Karen Kraft, and Dave Flynn
Nov. 12 Jean Peters and Diane Wenzel
Nov. 13 Nia Benoit
Nov. 16 Ryleigh and Camryn Cox “18”
Nov. 17 Marge Nelson and KJ Haddad
Visit: WestboroughTurkeyTrot.com
Questions? Contact Kerry Paulhus, Director of Health and Fitness at The Willows at Westborough. (508) 898-3490 x3577
kpaulhus@salmonhealth.com
Register ahead to pick up your bib.
church — men’s, women’s, and children’s. The items are neatly folded and separated by size and by type — tops, pants, shoes, and boots, new underwear and socks as well as pajamas and robes.
Shopping bags are provided, but you are welcome to bring your own bags.
Nov. 19 Karen Seekamp and Brenda Costa
Nov. 20 Samantha Dalbec, Michael Lombardi, and Marcia Fitzgerald
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY
Nov. 7 Elizabeth and Jason Young
NOVEMBER
10TH - 16TH
Bella, a barn owl,
Ambassador for the Giaquinto Wildlife Center in Marlborough. In the photo, Bella, being held by Alyssa Giaquinto, looks at Kimberly Cox. (Photo/Courtesy)
Town Meeting set to consider moratorium
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – Town Meeting in Shrewsbury will potentially look to limit development along two key commercial corridors.
The Select Board has called a Town Meeting on Dec. 17 –the fourth of the calendar year. There, Shrewsbury’s elected representatives will decide whether to institute a twoyear building moratorium in two major districts.
The Lakeway Overlay District, established in 2004, and
the Route 20 Overlay District, established in 2005, were created to encourage commercial and residential growth along the town’s major corridors. The districts were successful in that goal – creating 263,000 square feet of development and 528 housing units over the last decade – but the growth has outpaced municipal infrastructure and, as a memo to the Select Board notes, “recent proposals are not as effectively contributing to commercial redevelopment and corridor improvement.”
“These overlay districts,
successful in spurring new development and local investment through a mixed use model, have done so at an accelerated pace in comparison to municipal infrastructure. In addition, recent proposals under these zoning provisions have been limited in their ability to meaningfully contribute to the local objectives of increasing commercial redevelopment and improving the Town’s Commercial Corridors,” the memo reads.
With the overlay districts 20 years old with no substantial amendments in over a de-
cade, the town would propose a two-year moratorium in an effort to study the provisions of the overlay district and see how they align with the town’s objectives.
The 24-month moratorium would provide time to put out an RFP, collect data, engage with the community, and develop possible bylaw amendments. In the memo, two possible dates – May 2027 Town Meeting and Fall 2027 Town Meeting – are floated to bring the changes before residents.
The moratorium would
work hand-in-hand with Shrewsbury’s ongoing townwide economic study. In 2026, the town will update its Master Plan, which dates back to 2016.
By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter
NORTHBOROUGH — Over
100 banners line the streets of Northborough, bearing the names of veterans who grew up in town.
In its fifth year, the annual
tradition aims to honor veterans and their families, said organizer Michelle Gillespie. Gillespie is one of the founders of Boros Cares 4 Troops (BC4T), a Northboroughbased nonprofit that strives to support local troops and veterans through community
outreach, care packages, and social awareness, according to its website.
BC4T was founded in 2015.
The “hometown heroes” banners started in 2020. This year, 157 veterans have a banner hung up. Some names are submitted by families, while
others are through the Northborough Historical Society.
Gillespie said the moment of awe — and the emotion that comes with it — doesn’t always set in for the veterans’ families until the organization’s annual parade. For many, finding the old photos and submitting their veterans’ names for the banner doesn’t capture the love, and sometimes grief, that comes along with their memory.
But when the parade rolls down Main Street, and families see their loved ones’ photos and names displayed proudly while their neighbors proudly wave an American flag — it all comes together.
“I don’t think it really clicks for them, the whole meaning of it all, until they
do the parade,” Gillespie said. “That’s when I think it gets very emotional for them. The pride comes out.”
Gillespie added that BC4T hosts a lunch for the veterans after the parade at the Vincent F. Picard American Legion post. It’s there that the true love between veterans and the community shines.
“You see the stories come out and them sharing their memories,” Gillespie said.
“You often see grandfathers telling their grandsons, passing the stories of history down to not only their own children’s generation, but the next generation behind that.”
This year’s parade will take place on Nov. 9 at noon. The banners will remain up until the end of November.
GRAND OPENING NOVEMBER 11TH
OUR GRAND OPENING
TUESDAY NOVEMBER 11TH
10AM TO 6PM
Anyone can stop by to try out ninja for FREE . There will be raffles and fun ninja styles activities.
FREE ninja obstacle times for kids: SATURDAY NOVEMBER 15TH
2PM TO 6PM
SUNDAY NOVEMBER 16TH
10AM TO 3PM
Head coaches and American Ninja Warrior competitors Gavin Obey and James Burns are ready to help you rise to the challenge.
We offer classes for anyone 3 and up, even adults! During our classes coaches will teach kids and adults how to do certain skills starting with the basics and growing from there.
Photo credit Nickerson Hawes
COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
Westborough considers new graduation requirements
By Leighah Beausoleil Assistant Editor
WESTBOROUGH — With MCAS no longer a graduation requirement by the state, the Westborough School Committee has until December to finalize its policy for the new “Competency Determination” that will take effect starting with the Class of 2026.
In addition to Westborough’s existing graduation requirements, this determination would be a minimum threshold students must meet according to state law; MCAS was previously the benchmark for the “competency determination.”
“It’s not easy to graduate from Westborough High School,” Westborough High School Principal Brian Callaghan told the School Committee on Wednesday, Oct. 8. “We take pride in that. We
take pride in supporting those students through the process as well. That diploma means something, so we aren’t so much worried too much about the competency determination being also a part of our graduation requirement in this way because we require those courses already.”
While no decision has been made yet, the committee reviewed the new competency determination definition and a potential policy during its Wednesday meeting, which was presented by Assistant Superintendent Matt Mehler and Callaghan. Mehler noted MCAS “still matters” and will continue to be used to assess students from grades three through eight, as well as the 10th grade. Though some districts have opted to continue using MCAS for competency determination, he said at this time,
Engaging Math Classes for Students Pre K–Grade
they do not recommend the district move in that direction.
The competency determination is now based on the academic standards and curriculum frameworks of 10thgraders instead of the MCAS assessment of the standards themselves, Mehler explained. In other words, students are able to demonstrate mastery of common core skills and knowledge through completion of the coursework.
Students would be required to demonstrate mastery through final assessments, capstone projects, or portfolio work in English, math, science, and U.S. history content areas in grades nine and 10. Additionally, they must have satisfied the requirements needed to complete the following courses: English 9, English 10, algebra I or algebra II, geometry, biology, and U.S. history.
Callaghan noted any students set to graduate in the spring, as well as in 2027, who would not be in compliance with this new policy have had their schedules addressed to ensure an on-time graduation.
“We’re looking for your support to make sure this policy reflects both the rigorous standards that Westborough has come to know and be able to implement as well as meet the requirements of the state,”
Callaghan said. The district also intends to provide support to all students in achieving the competency determination, providing accommodations and alternative requirements that could help benefit students such as those with disabilities, English language learners, and those who enrolled in the district late. There would also be an appeals process available.
Food pantries deal with government shutdown
By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter
REGION — Just an hour after the Westborough Food Pantry opens, fresh produce is slowly dwindling. Volunteers hurriedly restock the shelves as families come in to stock up on food — filling their bag with everything from meat and eggs to canned goods and toothbrushes.
In the midst of the hustle and bustle that comes with mornings at the pantry, volunteers discuss what they need for donations, and where the shelves are running low. Last week, that conversation brought with it an extra weight.
On Nov. 1, food pantries across Central Mass. were overwhelmed after 1 million people in the state lost their federal food benefits.
As of Nov. 4, when the Community Advocate went to print, the ongoing government shutdown meant that Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits dried up, impacting millions of Americans.
Community resources became overwhelmed, including local food pantries.
In Westborough, over 1,200 people utilize SNAP benefits. According to the Westborough Food Pantry, that means about 400 families are impacted.
“The outpouring of generosity from Westborough residents, civic clubs, everyone has been tremendous already in anticipation of this, and we’ve got food, and we’re ready to help other Westborough residents,” said Polly Thayer, who runs the pantry with Paul Luippold. The Westborough Food Pantry is run wholly by
REIMAGINE EDUCATION
volunteers.
Luippold said the pantry saw seven new families last week. Every morning, there are new faces.
Across the region, food pantry directors and volunteers were preparing for an influx.
“We’ll just have to gauge it, you know, as the benefits drop on Nov. 1 and how much more we’re going to be getting, but I’m imagining it’s going to be a lot,” said Karen Scopetski, a director of the Northborough Food Pantry.
About 900 people in Northborough utilize SNAP benefits, or 5.6 percent of the population, according to data from the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance.
Scopetski added that the pantry has also seen an uptick in people since the government shutdown began on Oct. 1.
“It’s a tough situation. We don’t know how long it’s going to last. It definitely will have an impact on us. We’re trying to find resources to to circumvent the problem, you know, and to make up for it,” said Paul Mina, the president and CEO of United Way of Tri-County, which runs three food pantries in Central Massachusetts, including one in Marlborough.
“Whatever it is, we’ll be ready for it and we’ll deal with it,” he added.
Nearly 5,000 people in Marlborough rely on SNAP benefits, about 11 percent of the city’s population. Last year, United Way had 3,700 new families come to its pantries.
“It’s not the children’s fault. If they’re here, they have to eat, you know? Senior citizens, it’s not their fault,” Mina said.
boarding school where today’s students become tomorrow’s innovators by discovering their purpose and preparing for what’s next.
Donations needed across the state
Food pantries receive food and funds from multiple sources. Notably, many in Central Massachusetts receive food from the Greater Boston Food Bank or the Worcester County Food Bank. But that supply isn’t meeting the demand.
“The resources that we use to provide these large amounts of food, they’re shrinking,” Mina said.
Food banks receive donations from individuals and businesses, as well as programs from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The government programs, Mina said, have decreased significantly, leading both food banks and pantries to rely more heavily on donations.
In Westborough, the food pantry receives plenty of donations from local farms during the summer. Come the fall, however, those donations stop.
“We’ve actually just started buying produce so we can supplement what people are getting,” said Ellen Brezniak, a volunteer at the Westborough Food Pantry. “It was amazing this summer. It was crazy great. But come mid-October, the farms are done.”
Food pantries have seen a “generous” outpouring of support from their communities, organizers say. Whether it’s monetary or food donations or a donation of time, residents in Central Massachusetts have jumped in, especially in the last few weeks.
“What we’re hearing from the volunteers is that they’re willing to help, donate, and help us serve people and that’s great, but they all want a solution to this,” Mina added.
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LEGAL NOTICES
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MARLBOROUGH
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL TO PROVIDE ACTUARIAL SERVICES
The Marlborough Retirement System (“System”) is seeking proposals from qualified Actuaries and Actuarial Service providers to conduct a full actuarial valuation and review of the system to determine if assets and contributions are sufficient to provide prescribed benefits under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 32 and Chapter 34B, Section 19, as well as to provide appropriate bi-annual funding schedules pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 32. Assets of the Marlborough Retirement Board are valued at $216 million in assets as of 12/31/2024. The successful proposer should be experienced preparing GASB Statements Nos. 67 and 68 Accounting Valuation Reports and will also advise the Retirement System regarding matters that impact the actuarial funding schedule required by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 32. The Board reserves the right to cancel or reject in whole or part any or all proposals in the best interest of the Amesbury Retirement System.
Receiving Copies of the RFP: in order to receive a copy of this RPF you must contact: Mark S Bingle, Director, 289 Elm St, Suite 111, Marlborough, MA 01752, P508-460-3760 ext. 3, email mbingle@marlborough-ma.gov or retirement@marlborough-ma.gov
The RFP may be picked up at the Board’s office or emailed at no charge.
The Board’s regular business hours are Mon – Fri 8AM-4PM. The RFP will be sent via U.S. mail upon request and upon receipt of a certified check or cash in the amount of $25.00. Proposal deadline is Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at 4:00 PM. EST. Late Proposals will not be accepted.
SHREWSBURY
LAKE QUINSIGAMOND COMMISSION
Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at 7:10pm The Lake Quinsigamond Commission will have a public hearing Regarding a discussion about fair use of the lake for recreational and competitive activities.
REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS FOR OWNER’S PROJECT MANAGER (OPM)
HOME FARM WATER TREATMENT PLANT
The Town of Shrewsbury, acting through its Town Manager, is seeking a qualified Owner’s Project Manager (OPM) for a drinking water treatment facility project that includes the construction of a 6.0 million gallon per day PFAS water treatment plant to be constructed at the site of the Town’s existing Home Farm Water Treatment Plant.
The Town previously assigned a Town employee as the OPM but that employee is no longer with the Town for reasons unrelated to this project. The Town has already procured the services of Tata & Howard engineers for Construction Administrative and Resident Project Representative Services. The Town has contracted with R.H. White Construction Co., Inc. for the construction of the project with an anticipated start date in late Fall/early Winter 2025 and a completion date in June 2027.
The Town only seeks an OPM for the con-
struction and post-construction phases and work shall begin immediately. The OPM duties shall include, but are not limited to, review of the time schedule, review of change orders and payment requisitions prepared by the Design Engineer, attendance at meetings, providing general advice to the Town and assisting in project evaluation including, but not limited to, written evaluation of the performance of the contractors and subcontractors after project closeout.
Applicants must include a person who is registered by Massachusetts as an architect or professional engineer and who has at least five years of experience in the construction and supervision of construction of water treatment facilities, or a person, if not registered as an architect or professional engineer, who has at least seven years of experience in the construction and supervision of construction of water treatment facilities and buildings. Fees will be negotiated with the successful applicant.
The Request for Qualifications (RFQ) Instructions shall be available online at https://shrewsburyma.gov/bids and also in the Town Manager’s Office at 100 Maple Avenue in Shrewsbury (phone: 508-8418508).
Sealed Qualification Proposals submitted in accordance with the RFQ Instructions will bereceived in the Office of the Town Manager, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 until 11:00 AM on November 24, 2025. Qualification Proposals must be sealed and marked “Town of Shrewsbury OPM-Home Farm Water Treatment Plant” with the Applicant’s name and address clearly noted.
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY
Kevin J. Mizikar Town Manager
TOWN OF SHREWSBURY
ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
PUBLIC HEARINGS
RICHARD D. CARNEY MUNICIPAL OFFICE BUILDING
100 MAPLE AVENUE
SHREWSBURY, MA
November 24, 2025 6:00 PM
To hear the appeal of Christopher Pothier, 14 Vista Drive, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, for a Variance to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII - Table II to construct an addition eight and nine tenths feet (8.9’) from the side yard setback where ten feet (10’) is required upon property located at 14 Vista Drive in the Residence B-1 zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 17 Plot 028000.
November 24, 2025 6:00 PM
To hear the appeal of Jared Fiore, 1 Mercantile, Suite 220, Worcester, MA 01608, for an Appeal of Planning Board Site Plan to construct a gasoline service station with related convenience store, quick serve restaurant and car wash facility upon property located at 193 Hartford Turnpike in the Limited Industrial zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 52 Plot 125000.
November 24, 2025 6:00 PM
To hear the appeal of Bill Garcia, 248 Spring Street, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, for two Special Permits to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section IV.B & Section VIITable II to demolish and reconstruct a preexisting nonconforming structure with an addition eighteen and seven tenths feet (18.7’) from the front yard setback where thirty feet (30’) is required, and to increase lot coverage to thirty-five percent (35%) where the maximum allowed is thirty percent (30%) upon property located at 106 South Street in the Residence B-1 zoning district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 29, Plot 030000.
November 7th and November 14th
David Moore, Clerk
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40
Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Derek Grillo, 206 South Quinsigamond Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA has filed a Request for Determination of Applicability for the removal of trees at 206 South Quinsigamond Avenue. A public hearing will be held for the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, November 18, 2025, in the Dining Room (sides A & B), Shrewsbury Council on Aging, 98 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury 01545.
SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Kenneth Polito, Chair
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40
Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations Steve Lyon, 75 Sewall Street, Shrewsbury MA has filed a Notice of Intent for the replacement of an existing septic system at 75 Sewall Street. A public hearing will be held for the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, November 18, 2025, in the Dining Room (sides A & B), Shrewsbury Council on Aging, 98 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury 01545.
SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Kenneth Polito, Chair
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF HEARING - G.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40
Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, and the Town of Shrewsbury Wetlands Bylaw and Regulations that Mark Lambert, 41 Campground Road, West Boylston, MA 01583 has filed a Request for Determination of Applicability for the removal of 3 trees at 85 Spring Street. A public hearing will be held for the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, November 18, 2025, in the Dining Room (sides A & B), Shrewsbury Council on Aging, 98 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury 01545.
SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION
COMMISSION
Kenneth Polito, Chair
FAMILY & PROBATE LAW
INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE
Docket No. WO25P3647EA
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
The Trial Court
Worcester Division
Probate and Family Court
Estate of: Barbara Francis Haig
Date of Death: May 27, 2025
To all persons interested in the above captioned estate by Petition of Petitioner, Alan M. Tibbetts of Millbury MA
A will has been entered into informal probate Alan M. Tibbetts of Millbury MA has been informally appointed as the Personal Representative of the estate to serve without surety on the bond.
The estate is being administered under informal procedure by the Personal Representative under the Massachusetts Uniform Probate Code without supervision by the Court. Inventory and accounts are not required to be filed with the Court, but interested parties are entitled to notice regarding the administration from the Personal Representative and can petition the Court in any matter relating to the estate, including distribution of assets and expenses of administration. Interested parties are entitled to petition the Court to institute formal proceedings and to obtain
orders terminating or restricting the powers of Personal Representatives appointed under informal procedure. A copy of the Petition and Will, if any, can be obtained from the Petitioner.
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 Parties-In-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.
WESTBOROUGH
LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE OF INTENT WESTBOROUGH, MA
In accordance with the Westborough Wetlands Protection Bylaw, the Conservation Commission will conduct a Public Hearing held on Tuesday, November 18, 2025 after 6:30 PM at the Forbes Municipal Building, 3rd Fl meeting room, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA, for a Notice of Intent for 222 Turnpike Rd. (Parcel ID: 27-40-0) submitted by Post Road Realty, LLC for construction of parking lot, retaining wall, dog park, and stormwater management system associated with a multi-family residential development within jurisdictional resource areas.
LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE OF INTENT WESTBOROUGH, MA
IIn accordance with the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, MGL Chapter 131, Section 40, and the Westborough Wetlands Protection Bylaw, the Conservation Commission will conduct a Public Hearing held on Tuesday, November 18, 2025 after 6:30 PM at the Forbes Municipal Building, 3rd Fl meeting room, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA, for a Notice of Intent for 9 Technology Dr. (Parcel ID: 36-19-0) submitted by Powerflex EDF Renewables for installation of solar parking canopies within existing parking areas within jurisdictional resource areas.
DATE: OCTOBER 22, 2025
To the citizens of Westborough, Please take notice the Select Board will hold a public hearing to consider the naming of a municipal property.
The public hearing is open to all interested who wish to provide testimony on the proposed name(s).
The following names have been submitted for consideration for the naming of the space between 32 and 34 West Main Street, Westborough, MA:
• Civic Plaza
• Parker Plaza
Public hearing details:
• Date: November 18, 2025
• Time: 6:15 pm
• Location: Memorial Hall, Town Hall, 34 West Main Street, Westborough, MA
Interested parties may attend the public hearing to provide comments in person. Written comments will also be accepted for a period of 14 days following the publication of this notice.
Written submissions should be sent to:
• Town Manager’s Office
• 34 West Main Street, Westborough, MA
• achivallatti@westboroughma.gov
A copy of the application and other relevant documents are available for inspection during regular business hours at the Town Manager’s office.
LEGAL NOTICE FOR SPECIAL PERMIT AND SITE PLAN REVIEW HEARING
In accordance with the provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 40A, Section 9, and Sections 3.0 and 6.2 of the Town of Westborough Zoning Bylaw, the Westborough Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, December 2, at 6:30 PM, on applications for a Special Permit and Full Site Plan Review for two phased multifamily developments. The locations of the proposed project are 171 Milk Street, 221 Turnpike Road, and 223 Turnpike Road, Westborough, MA (Assessor’s Parcel IDs 33-46-0, 26-41-0, and 2640-0) (the North Parcel, Application No. 25-03504), proposed with 206 residential units, and 222 Turnpike Road, Westborough, MA (Assessor’s Parcel ID 27-40-0) (the South Parcel, Application No. 25-03503), proposed with 182 residential units. Both sites are located in the Highway Business Zoning District. The applicant for the filing is Post Road Realty LLC and the owners are 180 Turnpike Road LLC and 222 Turnpike Road LLC.
The public hearing will be held in the Great Hall of the Forbes Municipal Building, 45 West Main Street, Westborough, MA. Please see the Calendar on the Town of Westborough Homepage (posted 48 hours prior to the public hearing) for additional information. To access the application and any submitted documents, please go to our online permitting system, PermitPro (https://westborough. patriotpermitpro.com/) and search the above referenced application number. Records are also available for review in the Westborough Planning Board Office at 45 West Main St., Westborough, MA during regular business hours.
Persons unable to attend may submit comments in writing to the Westborough Planning Board in advance of the public hearing.
WESTBOROUGH PLANNING BOARD Hazel Nourse, Chair
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
Andrews, Robert formerly of Marlborough Bartulis, Anne of Southborough Breton, Nancy of Marlborough Brown, Thomas of Shrewsbury Butler, Jeffrey of Westborough Fallon, Michael of Marlborough Faugno, Frederick formerly of Hudson Flores, Carlos of Hudson Gagnon, Roland of Shrewsbury Haberman, Wolf “Bill” of Westborough/ Framingham Merullo, Donna of Shrewsbury Monaghan, Susan of Shrewsbury Moura, Aida of Hudson Reidy, George of Shrewsbury Rose, Virginia of Shrewsbury Shea-Burke, Marjorie of Marlborough Smith, Gordon of Marlborough Steele, Nancy of Westborough Tamasy, Attila of Shrewsbury Thomas, Richard of Marlborough Whittle, Joyce of Shrewsbury
Aida Moura, 69
HUDSON - With heavy hearts, we share that Aida Maria Moura, 69, of Hudson, MA, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, October 20, 2025. Born in Santa Maria, Azores, Portugal, Aida was the beloved daughter of the late Jose B. and Gertrudes (Monteiro) Moura. Aida is survived by her former husband, Joe B. Bairos; her beloved son, Kevin Bairos; her loving daughters, Tracy Bairos and Susan Mendonca and her husband Antonio; and her adored grandchildren, Jordan Bairos, Kayla
Avila, Kyle Avila, Krista Avila, Kiera Avila, Kimberly Avila, Kody Avila, Jacob Mendonca, Nathan Mendonca, and Adam Mendonca.
She also leaves behind her dear brothers, Antonio Moura, David Moura and his wife Edilene, and Joe Moura; her loving sisters, Lucia Bairos and Lidia Scovil and her husband Dale; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and cherished friends who will miss her dearly.
Aida is reunited in heaven with her parents and her beloved sister, Natalia Moura.
The Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted the family.
Wolf ‘Bill’ Haberman, 93
WESTBOROUGH/ FRAMINGHAM - Wolf “Bill” Haberman (Feb. 1, 1932 – Oct. 26, 2025) grew up in Long Beach, NY with his mother, Flora (Anenberg) Haberman and sister, Rica Haberman. His father, Herman Haberman lived on Manhattan.
Bill met his wife of 72 years, Berna (Bernstein) Haberman, in 1953 at the end of his senior year at MIT.
Bill and Berna did welcome four children into their world and later, welcomed their spouses: David and Demi (Mendivil) Haberman of Livermore, CA; Steven and Becca (Powers) Haberman of Spencer, MA; Robert (deceased) and Susan (Goldstein) Haberman of Framingham, MA; and Lyn (Haberman) and Brian Branscomb of Hopkinton, MA; and Maureen (Cronin) Haberman (deceased). As the family grew, the Habermans welcomed 10 grandchildren and later their partners into their lives plus seven great-grandchildren.
Knowing the importance of family, Bill considered his immediate family to include his sister-in-law and her husband, Rona (Bernstein) and Myron (deceased) Solberg of New Brunswick, NJ and their children and partners, Sara (Solberg) and Stuart Levine, Julie Solberg and Ted Chan-
dler, and Laurence and Lauren (Shniderman) Solberg, and their children and grandchildren. Also important to Bill were his brother-in-law, Barton Bernstein (deceased) of Dallas, Texas and his children, Talya (Bernstein) and Misha Galaganov, and Alon and Danelle (Pavelka) Bernstein, and their children.
Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted the family.
Michael C. Fallon, 82
MARLBOROUGH - Michael
“Mike” C. Fallon 82 of Marlborough passed away peacefully on Monday, October 20, 2025 in UMass Medical Center, Worcester, surrounded by his loving family.
Mike is survived by his wife of 60 years Claire F. (St. Germain) Fallon of Marlborough, 2 sons, Sean Fallon of Marlborough, Kevin Fallon and his wife Amy of Worcester, 2 daughters Nicole Fallon Mahoney and her husband Sean of Marlborough, Laurie Ann Fallon of GA, 2 grandchildren, Matthew Carlman and his wife Caroline of Norwood, Magda Fallon of Canada, his great grandson Charlie, daughter-in-law, Melissa Fallon of Canada as well as several nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
He was predeceased by his son, Craig R. Fallon, in January 2025 and his twin brother, Edward J. Fallon, in January 1999.
Short & Rowe Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted the family.
Nancy Jo Breton, 60
MARLBOROUGH - Nancy J. (Reidinger) Breton, beloved wife, daughter, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 21st, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with breast cancer.
She is survived by her husband Gary Breton, sister
Scan QR code to read all of this week’s obituaries on our website.
Pam Parrott, sister Shelly Weed, stepsister Tracy Smith (Gary), stepbrother Philip Bogard (Nicole), and many nieces and nephews who will forever cherish her memory and the love she so freely gave.
She was predeceased by her father Alan Reidinger, Mother Sandra Reidinger, stepmother Mary Ann Reidinger, and brother Mark Reidinger.
Memorial calling hours will be held on Saturday, November 8, 2025 from 2-4 pm in the Short and Rowe Funeral Home, 95 W. Main Street, Marlborough, MA.
Richard N. Thomas, 82
MARLBOROUGH - Richard N. Thomas, 82, of Marlborough, died Sunday, October 19, 2025, surrounded by his family and friends. He was the son of the late John R. and Laura V. (Beaulieu) Thomas. Richard was predeceased by his brother Paul Thomas.
Richard is survived by his children, John Thomas and his wife April of Pennsylvania, David Thomas of Newburyport, and Karen Raleigh of Hudson; and his grandchildren, Fiona, Maggie, Ava, Katelyn and Ryan.
Slattery Funeral Home, Inc. of Marlborough assisted the family.
Susan M. Monaghan, 76
SHREWSBURY - Susan M. (Giofreda) Monaghan, age 76, of Shrewsbury, passed away Tuesday afternoon, October 21, 2025, at U Mass Hospital with her children by her side. She was born on August 11, 1949, at Hahnemann Hospital in Worcester, Massachusetts; a daughter of the late Ralph and Mary (Hawes) Giofreda. The family is deeply saddened by her sudden death.
Susan is survived and missed by her three children, Anthony & Rebecca
Andrews III, Joshua & Kimberly Adams, and Jenny & David Hiitt; 6 grandchildren Miranda, Latta, Madison, Quinn, Hunter, and Attaya; a brother Brian; a sister, Marianne and her beloved dog Millie. She also leaves behind many aunts, cousins, and close friends that she would call her sisters. Susan was preceded in death by her parents Ralph and Mary (Hawes) Giofreda and her brother Gary Paul Giofreda.
Britton-Shrewsbury Funeral Home of Shrewsbury assisted the family.
Attila F. Tamasy, 88
SHREWSBURY - Attila F. Tamasy, 88, of Shrewsbury, MA, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2025 after a long illness, surrounded by loved ones. Attila was born in Budapest, Hungary, to Erzsebet (Elizabeth) Szivak and Istvan (Steven) Tamasy. He spent his childhood in both Hungary and Germany as a war refugee, immigrating to the United States with his family in 1951.
Attila met the love of his life, Rosalie, on a serendipitous, last-minute blind date, and what began as a chance encounter evolved into 65 years of marriage. Together they raised four children, David (Kathleen Browne) of Needham, MA, Julianne of Shrewsbury, Steven (David Aronstein) of Jamaica Plain, MA, and Suzanne (James Collins) of Arlington, MA. He also leaves behind six beloved grandchildren, Jacob (Catherine) Tamasy, Kate Tamasy, Anna Tamasy-Browne and Alexander (Dani), Julius and Nikolaus Kovacs, as well as his sisters, Maria Facklam and Elizabeth Tamasy. His brother Stephen pre-deceased him in 2023.
Britton-Shrewsbury Funeral Home of Shrewsbury assisted the family.
COMMUNITY CLASSIFIED
SENIOR R&D ENGINEER
Marlborough, MA. May require to travel/ telecommute. Develop and lead strategies for preparation of technical documentation to support regulatory submissions. $102,669 to $119,311/ yr. Contact: Susan Cardinal Boston Scientific Corporation, GlobalTalentAcq@bsci.com. Please include reference H4872-00246 . (EOE).
TOWN OF HUDSON, MASSACHUSETTS
PUBLIC NOTICE OF HEARING
Notice is hereby given that the Hudson Community Preservation Committee will hold a public hearing under the provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 44B, Section 5, on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at 6:30pm, in the Community Meeting Room of the Hudson Police Station, Municipal Drive. The hearing is to approve the Community Preservation Plan that identifies the needs, possibilities and resources of the town regarding community preservation funds. The Community Preservation Plan may be viewed at the Town Hall, Town Clerks Office or on the website at www. Legal | from page 20
townofhudson.org under the Community Preservation Committee.
The Committee will also be accepting Applications until Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at 12:00 noon, for projects to be considered for submission to the May 2026 Annual Town Meeting. Applications must be sent electronically to lghilonicpc@gmail.com AND by submitting ten copies to the Community Preservation Committee, 78 Main Street, Town Hall, Hudson, MA 01749. Applicants will have the opportunity to meet with the Committee on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 to support their projects submission to the warrant.
Hudson Community Preservation Committee
Marlborough, MA
Execute FAT tests associated with process equipment for the biopharmaceutical industry. Min. Req: Associates degree in Com Eng or rel (will accept for equiv) + 12 mos exp in commissioning of complex equipment and/or systems in the biopharma industry. Exp must include interpreting PFD’s, P&ID’s, Electrical Schematics and detailed design docs. Must have knowledge of operation + configuration of industrial automation systems including Siemens / Rockwell/ Emmerson. Ability to travel up 20% domestic & foreign to customer location.
Annual Salary: $62,317. Qualified applicants directly mail resumes to Jessica Weynand, Manager of HR Operations, US/CA, Sartorius Stedim North America, 545 Johnson Ave., Bohemia, NY 11716 with job ref code SQE. No calls please.
POLICE FIRE&
Scan QR code to read this week’s police and fire news on our website.
Grafton FD rescues dog from blaze in North Main Street building
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
GRAFTON — A dog was rescued from a blaze on Oct. 31.
At 9:32 a.m., the Grafton Fire Department was called to 56 North Main Street, a residential building near the intersection of Route 30 and Route 140.
The fire, which was on the second floor, was knocked down within 15 minutes.
Several fire engines responded to the blaze, which closed down North Main Street. According to officials who spoke with the Community Advocate at the scene, the building was unoccupied. The department saved a dog from the structure.
The building is uninhabitable. Residents are being helped by the Red Cross.
“The Grafton Fire Depart-
ment would like to thank our mutual aid partners, Millbury, Sutton, Northbridge, and Westborough, for covering Grafton’s stations. The Grafton Fire Department would also like to thank the Grafton Police Department, Grafton Emergency Communications, MedStar EMS, the Grafton Building Department, Eversource, and National Grid,” the department wrote on Facebook.
By Shealagh Sullivan Reporter
MARLBOROUGH — Two city employees were honored after helping save a child’s life last month.
On Oct. 15, Department of Public Works employee Anthony Zanella and Marlborough Fire Battalion Chief Brian LaCroix were going about their day when the young girl was attacked by a dog. The pair didn’t hesitate to jump in.
Zanella intervened, jumping out of his vehicle to free the child from the dog’s grip. LaCroix rendered aid at the scene until an ambulance arrived.
“It’s inspiring to see these dedicated city employees go above and beyond to assist during such an unfortunate incident,” Mayor J. Christian Dumais said in a statement to the Community Advocate.
Zanella and LaCroix were formally honored at City Hall on Oct. 23 for their actions.
“Their actions reflect the
strong sense of community we share and remind us of the importance of looking out for one another. We are truly grateful to Mr. Zanella and Mr. LaCroix for their act of heroism to save a life,” Dumais said.
A dog was saved by the Grafton Fire Department.
Where did Shrewsbury High’s Class of 2025 end up?
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – With November upon us, many in Shrewsbury High School’s Class of 2026 are searching for colleges, getting applications ready, and preparing for their futures. Students are looking ahead to graduating this spring.
With that in mind, the School Committee heard a presentation from Principal Todd Bazydlo on Oct. 8 about where the Class of 2025 ended up. The 421 students in that graduating class have taken many different paths over the last few months.
About 81 percent of the students attended a four-year college, while 12 percent enrolled in a two-year college and 7 percent went into the workforce or military. Those numbers can be stratified into different groups: For students who qualified for
reduced lunch, 51 percent went to a four-year school, with 33 percent going to a two-year school.
About 50 percent of English Language Learners went into the workforce, with 40 percent going to a two-year college, and 10 percent going to a 4-year college. About 40 percent of special education students went into a two-year school, with 35 percent going into the workforce.
Of the 81 percent of students who attended a four-year school, 58 percent went to a public school, while 42 percent enrolled in a private school. The amount of students enrolling in a public university has jumped noticeably; 51 percent of the Class of 2024 went to a public option.
It was a historic year for college applications. Exactly 3,711 college applications were
submitted, beating last year’s mark of 3,404 and squashing 2019’s total of 2,672. Students applied to eight schools on average, with 62 students submitting 15 or more applications. One student submitted 38 applications.
“We have a number of students that get accepted into really outstanding colleges and universities. What our community tries to stress with families is making sure we find the right fit – where you feel you have a sense of belonging and connection. Where does that match your values and beliefs. … Where you’ll go is not who you’ll be,” said Bazydlo.
Students applied to 359 different colleges, were accepted into 292 schools, and enrolled in 110 different universities. About 75 percent of students stayed in the New England area.
Policy will boost career-technical education visibility
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
SHREWSBURY – Shrewsbury has adopted a policy that ensures middle-schoolers understand all the different education programs available to them, including trades and other career-technical education pathways.
The School Committee on Oct. 8 reviewed Policy 590, which would promote careertechnical education. A Massachusetts state regulation requires that all public school districts with middle-school grades create a Middle School Pathway Exploration Policy that documents how students in the district are made aware
of and gain exposure to careertechnical education.
The policy states that, by Oct. 15, the district would provide seventh- and eighth-grade students with “information regarding students’ options for career technical education (CTE) in high school, including what CTE pathways programming is available at Shrewsbury High School, and at any vocational technical high schools that have official partnerships with the Shrewsbury Public Schools.”
Oak Middle School eighthgrade students will be allowed to tour vocational high schools, or other career-technical programs, during regular school hours; attending such tours
will not be counted as absences from school. Oak Middle School administration and staff will work cooperatively with career-technical schools during the admission process.
“We are proactively adopting the policy by looking at what the state needs, what our interest is in career-technical education, and also expanding it into grade seven, giving those students an opportunity to learn. It’s very hands-on for grade seven and grade eight,” said School Committee member Rajesh Velagapudi, a member of the Policy Subcommittee alongside Rachel Sharifipour.
“Much of what’s in the policy has been our practice,” said Superintendent Joe Sawyer.
COMMUNITY SPORTS
Kenzie Gage’s double-overtime strike gives Westborough playoff win
By Evan Walsh Managing Editor
WESTBOROUGH — Before the match’s most pivotal moment, Samantha Kelley and Kenzie Gage looked at one another nervous yet determined.
Westborough’s playoff opener had become a grudge match. After 60 minutes in regulation, the No. 14 Rangers were tied with Mid-Wach rival No. 19 Shrewsbury, 0-0. In a 10-minute, 7-on-7 overtime period, the scorelessness continued, and in a second 10-minute overtime, several brave defensive stands left both teams inches from victory and defeat. The season hung in the balance.
Then, with about five minutes remaining in the second overtime, Westborough forced a corner. From the circle, Kelley and Gage debated who would take the shot. As the mist over Joseph R. Mewhiney Field settled, Kelley encouraged her teammate to rise to the challenge. From just over 10 yards out, Gage controlled the ball and fired a missile past the goalie — a game-winner that helped Westborough top the Colonials, 1-0.
“I think we all just had the trust in Kenzie to get that shot off, get it in the goal,” said Kelley.
“I was nervous. If it were up to me, I wouldn’t have done it. But it comes down to trusting your teammates. Sam trusted me, and that gave me the strength to do it. I don’t think I would’ve just volunteered,” Gage told the Community
Advocate.
The celebration that followed was just as epic as the goal — teammates jumping into one another’s arms, highfives, and hugs. After a 6-9-2 record last year, the Rangers (11-2-4) secured their first playoff victory since 2016.
It took the whole team, said Head Coach Michelle Lamb.
“Honestly, they really wanted it. We practiced this. We were ready for it. Both teams played amazing, and we found the net. That was it. It just takes one,” she said. “I think today, it was everyone. No matter what position they were in.”
Gage’s goal marked the end of 75 minutes of high-stress field hockey. With the score at 0-0 for the entire contest, there wasn’t any margin for error. In timeouts between overtime periods, Rangers and Colonials alike forced themselves to remain focused.
“I think we were all very anxious, but we had to remember that they were in the same boat. It came down to who wanted it more. Especially for the seniors, we knew it was going to be someone’s final game, so we had to really use that — we didn’t want it to be us more than they didn’t want it to be them. It really came down to effort,” said Gage.
Especially on defense, where Kelley and Co. shut out Shrewsbury for the second time this year. Just weeks earlier, the Rangers defeated Shrewsbury, 1-0, in another nail-biter characterized by
great defense on both sides. Both teams knew what type of game it would be coming in.
“We were trying to keep it positive. It was a 0-0 game the whole time, and we only beat them 1-0 the last time. We came in here knowing that it was going to be a great game, and we had to give it 100 percent. We had to give it our all,” said Kelley.
Though no doubt disappointing for Shrewsbury, the fight the team showed was encouraging, especially considering the Colonials were 1-15-2 at this point last year. The team’s strong group of seniors and blossoming underclassmen gave the Rangers everything they had.
“I told the girls leaving that they can hold their heads
high,” said Shrewsbury Head Coach Abby Turgeon. “This was amazing field hockey. Reflecting back on last season, could you imagine being in
TAKE IT EASY
• Private air-conditioned shuttle bus
• Snow removal (and ample free parking)
• Weekly light h ousekeeping & flat linen service
• Three delicious h ome-cooked meals daily
STAY ACTIVE
• Fitness & wellness programs
• Indoor 1/5-mile walking path
• Exercise classes 7 days a week
• Heated indoor lap swimming pool
PURSUE YOUR INTERESTS
• A variety of clubs
• Countr y kitchen for resident use
• Indoor greenhouse & outdoor gardens
• Regular Cath olic, Jewish, & Protestant services
HAVE FUN
• Weekly entertainment
• Outings to restaurants and museums
• A full calendar of events and activities
• Games, crafts, lectures, movie nights, & more!
EXPERIENCE TOP-NOTCH SERVICE
• On-site maintenance team
• 24 -hour front desk receptionist
• Direc tor on duty seven days a week
• Licensed nurse scheduled 24 hours a day
ENJOY ON-SITE CONVENIENCE
• Six complimentary laundry rooms
• Primary care, podiatry, & dental care
• Bankin g, a pharmacy/sundry shop, & a hair/beauty salon
• Loun ges, billiards room, library, theater, art studio, and game room
MAKE IT YOUR HOME
• Wide variety of floor plans
• Individually controlled heat/air conditioning
• Win dow treatments & wall-to-wall carpeting
• Oversized bathrooms with easy step-in shower
