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Vol. 46 | No. 32 | August 7, 2020
Shrewsbury’s Annual Town Meeting to be held Aug. 8 outside By Melanie Petrucci Senior Community Reporter SHREWSBURY – After at least four postponements, Shrewsbury’s annual Town Meeting will finally take place on Saturday, Aug. 8 starting at 8:30 a.m. Town Meeting members will meet outside at the Oak-Sherwood Middle School Campus, 45 Oak St., to deliberate a warrant that contains 41 articles. Rest room facilities will be available and social distancing and sanitizing precautions will be in place throughout the meeting. The quorum was reduced by roughly 50 percent to 61 Town Meeting members by the Selectmen at their July 14 meeting. In a statement to the community that was posted on the town website on July 22, titled “FY21 Fiscal Projection 2,” Town Manager Kevin Mizikar stated, “COVID-19 has not only challenged our operations but our ability to plan for fiscal year 2021 and beyond. Significant uncertainty remains with regards to both the virus’s impact on residents and on the town’s revenues and future expenses.” “Because of COVID-19 the state has yet to pass a fiscal year 2021 budget in place. Given this and many other unknowns related to COVID-19, the revenue model used for this budget has a higher level of uncertainty than a normal budget. Significant changes to this financial plan are likely at some point in the fiscal year,” Mizikar’s statement continued. During a presentation to the Finance Committee on July 22 when they met to discuss the Warrant in a public hearing, Mizikar said that the general approach to COVID-19 costs needs to be separated from on-going operations and that Town Meeting will meet again in the fall to fill in any gaps. The Finance Committee recommends an Operating Budget of $137.1 million dollars for FY2021 which can be found along with other budgetary business items within the first 16 articles of the warrant. The Selectmen offered their recommendations at their July 28 meeting for all but three of the articles, notably Articles 1, 21, 27 and 30, all of which relate to the establishment of a Community Preservation Act (CPA). The board noted they do not not wish to ask residents to support a new Police and Municipal Building Project and the CPA in the same year; the campus project taking precedence. Article 17 seeks the town to transfer $150,000 from ATM | 7
PHOTO/ ED KARVOSKI JR
Graduating seniors enter the Joseph R. Mewhiney Turf Field in single file.
‘Great and gritty’
Westborough High class of 2020 finally celebrates graduation
By Ed Karvoski Jr. Contributing Writer WESTBOROUGH – It was better late than never when the Westborough High School (WHS) class of 2020 gathered Aug. 1 for their outdoor graduation ceremony – albeit with pandemic-era safety measures. Most of this year’s 264 graduates attended. The ceremony began with graduating senior Jennifer Brown singing “The StarSpangled Banner.” WHS | 12
inside this issue: sports ....................11 schools ...................12 homes & more ........16 business...................17
crossword .............17 police log ...............18 obituaries .............18 classifieds .............19
Festival announces virtual art exhibit
4
2 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, August 7, 2020
COMMUNITYNEWS WE CAN to host regional recycling event By Melanie Petrucci Senior Community Reporter
We Can Recycling Event diagram
REGION – Melisa Hollenback, Shrewsbury resident and president of WE CAN, is helping to coordinate another regional drive-through re-use event that will take place Saturday, August 8 at Grafton Town Hall, 30 Providence Rd., Grafton. Once again, Hollenback will be working with WE CAN regional coordinator Irene Congdon and the towns of Shrewsbury, Grafton, Westborough and Northborough. While these communities are co-hosting this event, residents from neighboring towns may participate. Their most recent event was held in January at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine in North Grafton, Mass. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, their operations have
since been impacted. As such, due to COVID-19 they cannot take Styrofoam at this event because they need multiple people to break down the foam into small pieces; it
doesn’t mix well with social distancing. However, they hope to resume accepting it at their next event tentatively scheduled for November later this year. WE CAN | 3
Thank you to Shrewsbury To the Editor: As I embark on the retirement from my 32 year career with the Town of Shrewsbury, I find myself reflecting on how truly blessed I have been to work with so many great employees and volunteer members of the various Boards and Commissions. I am especially grateful to have been mentored by two tremendous individuals to the – Richard Carney and Dan Morgado. You see, not only were these men masters of their craft but they also were/are deservedly esteemed for the integrity of their conduct and their consistency of principle. As a young professional, I was blessed to be guided by these two gentlemen who profoundly shaped the ethical standards and values that I will continue to live by. Along my journey, I have met and worked with many admirable people who have volunteered countless hours in making Shrewsbury a place to live and work. I learned to appreciate that I gain so much more from giving than from getting. Early in my career I learned a great deal about business and giving back to the community from Jim and Babs Donahue. Later in my career I was blessed to meet Robert “Chief Joseph” Terkanian who truly has bestowed the “art of giving back” to community from the fortunes that he has amassed from his hard work. Again, like my professional mentors, these community individuals, as well as countless others, have made me who I am. Lastly, I can’t forget my wife who shares a love of municipal government with me. She was always there when I brought a work issue home that had challenged my patience and well-being. So, before I sail into my next venture I do so with one request. Shrewsbury is your community. The municipal government, the school department, and SELCO all provide many valuable services to you. I ask you to consider at some point in your life giving back to the place that is your home, either in a voluntary capacity or in making a monetary contribution to the SELCO Share the Warmth Fund, School Department’s Colonial Fund, the Shrewsbury Library Foundation or Friends of the Library, or the Friends of the Council on Aging if you are blessed with the resources to do so. In the meantime, I hope to see you around Town on my neighborhood walks.
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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, August 7, 2020 • 3 WE CAN | from page 2
Goliath is winning… REGION - Most of us are guilty… in these times, Amazon has made it absurdly easy to get things delivered to our doorsteps. However, we should be aware that there is a cost to all this convenience. As the cyber giants continue to lull us with faster delivery, easy access and new services, we wonder how we ever lived without it. Unfortunately, the end result is that we may ultimately have to live without local retailers. On a near daily basis, local stores are closing… victims of new buying habits and the pandemic. We are now experiencing the most difficult time in a generation for local retail with so many on the brink. Now, more than ever before, buying local really, really matters. If you’re a believer, do your part… at least once a week, deal with a local business. Buy a greeting card, get takeout, pick out a new outfit, because when these local businesses are gone, it’s unlikely there will be others to take their place.
Letters to the Editor
Hollenback also explained that each of the participating communities will receive points from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection’s SMRP Recycling Dividends Program (RDP) that provides payments to qualifying municipalities that have implemented specific waste reduction, reuse, and recycling programs. The funds then can be used to offset solid waste and recycling expenses. She commented that of the 75 or so communities in Central Massachusetts, Northborough and Shrewsbury were the only two that did not have an easy drop-off point for hard to recycle items such as electronics, mattresses, textiles and Styrofoam. When asked what was new for this event, she replied via email, “We will be adding Salvation Army and expanding Fresh Start so we are really pushing the RE-USE aspect…We accept used clothing and textiles, shoes, purses, wallets, belts, sheets, curtains, pillows, table cloths. Holes and rips are accepted but please no wet or moldy items.” Mattresses will also be accepted for a $30 fee. A variety of electronics will
Ryan Maloney, owner The Community Advocate’s Policy on Letters to the Editor All letters should be 350 words or less. Letters can be emailed to news@communityadvocate.com or mailed to Managing Editor, Community Advocate, 32 South St. Westborough MA 01581. Letters must have the name, address and phone number of the person submitting it (only name and town will be printed.) Letters will be reviewed and printed at the discretion of the Editor for suitability. Letters that are deemed slanderous, libelous or attacking a person or organization will not be printed. Opinions expressed in the letters to the editor are not necessarily the opinion of the Community Advocate or its advertisers.
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also be accepted such as holiday lights, desktop and laptop computers, printers, home audio and video, VCR / DVD players and microwaves, small kitchen appliances such as toasters, coffee maker and vacuums ($10 each); air conditioners, dehumidifier, small refrigerators and monitors ($20 each); televisions, 26 inch and under ($20 each) and larger televisions ($40). The following can be recycled for free: Books, CDs and DVDs, video games, crafts and office supplies and a variety of household items. Many of the textiles, furniture, small household appliances and office supplies that can be re-used will go to various organizations such as Project New Hope - MA, Epilepsy Foundation, Fresh Start Furniture Exchange, The Great Exchange and local animal shelters. Congdon noted that the biggest difference people will see is that they will need to unload their own items. She asks that people be understanding and patient. For more information and a full list of acceptable items, instructions and associated fees, visit https://wecan-ma.org/recycling-event-august-8-2020.
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4 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, August 7, 2020
Small Stones Festival of the Arts announces virtual art exhibit GRAFTON - The 2020 Small Stones Festival of the Arts (SSFA) will present an online juried fine art and photography exhibit with a live opening ceremony slated for Friday, Oct. 23, to announce the winning artists. Three regional arts organizations – Apple Tree Arts, the Worcester County Camera Club and the Blackstone Valley Art Association - have collaborated to create a newly envisioned virtual fine art and photography exhibit and music program. The festival’s art call opens Saturday, Aug. 15, for submissions of artwork. Photography and all forms of two-dimensional artwork are welcomed, with a maximum of three entries per artist. The art call will remain open until midnight of the day 500 entries are received. All artwork meeting acceptance criteria will be displayed online. Visit https:// smallstonesfestival.org/ to submit artwork. A distinguished panel of jurors will select 144 works to
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We are committed to continuing the work of bringing the artistic talent of our region to greater prominence, even under the current circumstances. — Ken Crater Festival Chair
Ron Rosenstock, renowned nature and travel photographer, will serve as a photography juror
appear in the printed exhibit catalog as well as select cash prize winners in photography and fine art categories. Awards will include first, second and third cash prize winners and juror’s choice (six awards). A popular choice award for each category will be voted by viewers online. Cash awards are $500 for first; $250 for second; and $100 for third place. The exhibit catalogue will be sold online.
Three independent jurors for each category will choose the award winners. The fine art painting and drawing category is juried by Jim Welu, former director and chief curator of Worcester Art Museum (WAM); Michael Graves, a nationally recognized pleinair artist and recipient of 85 awards; and Charlotte Wharton, a highly-accomplished portrait and landscape artist with over 600 pieces of artwork displayed in collections. Photography category jurors include Nancy Burns, associate curator of prints, drawings and paintings of WAM; Ron Rosenstock, renowned nature and travel photographer, former Clark University instructor and published author of
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six books featuring his own photography; and Stephen DiRado, professor at Clark University with over 40 years’ experience in documentary photography, filmmaking and conceptual art. Welu and Rosenstock will discuss their thoughts and perspectives about specific artwork in a Zoom presentation to be shared on the festival’s website in late October after the winning artists have been announced. Donna Dufault and Scott Erb of Erb/Dufault Photography will present a workshop for artists about how to market and promote art via Zoom in late October. Details about the free seminar will be available at a later date.
Festival Chair Ken Crater of the Worcester County Camera Club is working with a committee of seven to offer the community a virtual festival featuring fine art, photography and music. “Our organizing committee has put in a spectacular effort to re-vision the F=festival within the constraints of the pandemic,” Crater said. “We are committed to continuing the work of bringing the artistic talent of our region to greater prominence, even under the current circumstances.” The mission of the Small Stones Festival of the Arts is to elevate the practice and appreciation of fine art and photography in the Blackstone Valley and beyond. The Festival is now under the aegis of a new sponsor, Grafton Arts, Inc., a newly formed nonprofit organization. Sponsorships are available; contact Crater at ken@ smallstonesfestival.org inquire about sponsorships. For more information, visit https:// smallstonesfestival.org.
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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, August 7, 2020 • 5
Westborough officials ‘extremely disappointed’ after Eversource meeting Cite lack of transparency with proposal as well as concerns regarding gas leaks By Jennifer L. Grybowski Contributing Writer WESTBOROUGH - The Board of Selectmen heard a presentation from Eversource at their meeting July 28, but it was not the presentation they had expected. The board hosted a public hearing in regards to Eversource’s Worcester Feed Line Improvement Project in January. The project involves installing nearly four miles of new gas main entirely within public roadways in the heart of Westborough to address a low-pressure issue within the line in Worcester. The January public hearing was wellattended, and following the meeting Town Manager Kristi Williams submitted a letter to Eversource outlining the community’s concerns regarding the project, and also reached out to seek support from the town’s state representatives and senator on those concerns. In addition, Williams, Selectman Syed Hashmi, Fire Chief Patrick Purcell and Sustainable Westborough Member John Metzger have been working to further discussions with Eversource. Some of the concerns included a limited benefit to Westborough residents, and conflict with state and local energy goals. “We relayed concerns…and asked them to come back and present the responses,” Williams said. However, they found the July 28 presentation to be similar to the one given in January. It gave general information on the project, reasons Eversource is undertaking the project, gave a projected construction schedule to begin in 2022 and addressed a potential alternative traffic route. “I was surprised with this presentation,” Williams said. “I thought it was going to be speaking specifically to the issues we raised. Aside from amending the alternate route, you haven’t responded to the town’s concerns.” Selectmen agreed. “The fact that the presentation tonight was basically a rehash is extremely disappointing and somewhat disrespectful to the board and the public here and not a valuable use of our time and your own,” Selectman Allen Edinberg
Natural gas has been portrayed as a bridge to the future but it’s only a tether to the past. Every state of this process is linked with environmental health hazards. — Syed Hashmi Selectman
said. “In my mind, you need to go back to the drawing board.” “Suffice to say that it feels like Eversource didn’t really hear the public’s concerns the first time around,” Selectmen Chair Shelby Marshall said. Selectmen were also concerned about the lack of transparent data in the presentation. “We are being told there is a drop in demand, but there has not been any independent data to substantiate that demand,” Hashmi said. “We are going to be putting in this line, and there is potential we are going to have to pay for this line we may or may not need. Would Eversource commit in writing to the town that we will never have to pay for this pipeline?” Edinberg also had an issue with the demand data. “You mention residential growth as a need [for the pipeline] but there is no data,” he said. “The state projection is natural gas will peak in 2025 to 2027 and then will decline. It doesn’t fit in the state plan to move away from fossil fuels.” Hashmi was also concerned about environmental impacts. “This goes against our town’s goals on energy efficiency,” he said. “Natural gas has been portrayed as a bridge to the future but it’s only a tether to the past. Every state of this process is linked with environmental health hazards.” Sean Lauziere, Eversource’s senior community relations and economic development specialist, said Eversource is working toward several sustainable products, such as renewable natural gas. “We understand there is a path forward that doesn’t just involve natural gas,” he said. “We are looking to become 100 percent carbon-neutral by 2030. The way to do that is involving some of the existing infrastructure.”
In addition to their frustration with the pipeline project, selectmen were also very unhappy with Eversource’s recent response to real and perceived gas leaks in town. If people smell gas, they are supposed to call 911, but many just call Eversource directly. Eversource then dispatches a crew immediately to investigate and if they find a leak, they contact public safety officials. “It’s not feasible to notify public safety if someone smells gas,” Lauziere said, noting they get many calls that turn out to be unsubstan-
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tiated. “They’d be running around all day smelling gas.” Purcell said he wanted to be notified anyway. “I do have a concern about gas leaks in Westborough,” Purcell said. “I am confused listening to this presentation, and I have a concern with the emergency response plan. It still thinks there is a gap that exists.” Recently, Eversource responded to a category 1 leak and notified the chief via an unmonitored e-mail address. “I don’t think emailing about a leak is sufficient,” Purcell said. “I think those calls should go to dispatch center. I just don’t like the whole way the system is set up.” He said under the current system he is unable to perform adequate risk assessment and never truly has an appreciation for the volume of leaks that exist. “The lack of transparency makes me concerned about [the pipeline] project going
forward,” he said. Purcell was also concerned about the logistics of the project, specifically stating that if the line is struck and explodes, it could be a catastrophic event. He also said he’d be looking for mitigation for training in case an incident should occur in the ditch that will be dug for the project. Selectmen were supportive of Purcell. “I think Chief Purcell’s concerns should be fixed immediately,” Selectman Leigh Emery said. Lauziere said Eversource had heard Purcell’s concerns, and had sent a presentation a month ago to public safety officials and have offered a meeting several times to discuss it, but that those offers had gone unresponded to. The board decided to instruct Williams to write up another e-mail relaying concerns and send it to Eversource for comment.
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6 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, August 7, 2020
Selectmen continue discussion on town seal By Jennifer L. Grybowski Contributing Writer WESTBOROUGH - The push to change the town seal got another boost at the selectmen’s meeting July 28. During that meeting, they heard a presentation from Local History Librarian Anthony Vaver about the history of the seal. He then gave his thoughts in support of the effort. “Change is hard,” he said. “But we all experience change throughout our lives whether we like it or not and quite often we come out better for it. As a student of culture and history, I am excited that we are having these kinds of conversations and I encourage people to become curious rather than resistant to new ways of thinking about
and seeing the world.” He also said if people are feeling confused of frustrated by any element of this initiative, the library is there to help point them to resources. “To help answer questions or even to help ask new ones,” he said. “Because what makes history so exciting is that we get to keep asking questions.” Selectman Ian Johnson said he originally wanted to hold a public meeting to discuss the changing of the seal, but that people will likely want to discuss it at Town Meeting regardless. He said he also thought for safety’s sake, it might not be a good idea to hold an extra meeting. “There is a lot of interest in this, and I think that’s great,” he said. He proposed putting an article on the fall Town Meeting warrant to remove the seal and then discuss a replacement for the seal after that, but with one caveat: he said if for some reason the fall Town Meeting is limited like the annual was to such the extent a full debate will not be feasible, he would suggest passing it over to the next Town Meeting in order to facilitate a full discussion available to all. The board agreed to that plan. “We are going to put it on the fall Town Meeting but if conditions are such we feel like we have to have an abbreviated Town Meeting in the best interest of public safety and health, we will push it out to a different Town Meeting,” Selectmen Chair Shelby Marshall said.
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Local fire departments awarded $46,000 grant for PPE REGION – The classroom in the Shrewsbury Fire Department Headquarters is now being used as a storage room for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) supplies. In January, Fire Chief Jim Vuona was paying attention to what was happening overseas and took stock of supplies at hand and began adding to it when he could. PHOTO/MELANIE PETRUCCI The department Shrewsbury Fire Chief will be significant- Jim Vuona with PPE samples ly adding to its supply because it was recently working with Northborough awarded the 2020 Assistance and Westborough,” Vuona to Firefighters Grant-Supsaid. “Their chiefs are very proplemental Program allocated regional as well.” by FEMA in the amount of Vuona explained that ma$46,563.64 for emergency jority of PPE will be distribmedical PPE and disinfection/ uted to Northborough and decontamination supplies. Westborough where there is Vuona was notified in early greater need. Those towns run July by U.S. Senators Ed Markey their own ambulances and ofand Elizabeth Warren that the ten supplement Shrewsbury’s award was granted. Funds will ambulance needs. be dispersed at a later date after Shrewsbury has ambulance a purchase plan is submitted. coverage through Worcester He was quick to note that EMS. When they are unable the grant was a “regional subto take a call in Shrewsbury mission” with the Northborthen, through a Mutual Aid ough and Westborough Fire Agreement, Northborough or Departments. Westborough will provide as“The PPE will be shared sistance. and distributed between the In addition to the grant, the three towns,” Vuona explained. towns will be receiving addi“Shrewsbury is the lead town tional PPE from the state. and will accept the award on “We got a call from MEMA behalf of all three towns.” and they are anticipating a He thanked Northborough surge this fall,” Vuona noted. Chief David Parenti, Westbor“They will be distributing PPE ough Chief Patrick Purcell and in advance so we will be gethis Deputy Chief Seth Colby ting on top of what we will be and gave a special thanks to buying, another 21,500 KN95 firefighter Mike Borowiec who masks, 21,500 surgical masks, put the grant together. 2,100 face shields and 300 sets “We have tried to take a of goggles.” more regional approach now
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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, August 7, 2020 • 7
Board discusses older adult needs assessment By Melanie Petrucci Senior Community Reporter SHREWSBURY – The Board of Selectmen met with Christine Mowry, executive director of Shrewsbury Youth and Family Services, and Jen Rifkin, director of clinical services, who reviewed a community-wide Older Adult Behavioral Health Needs Assessment at their July 21 meeting. The assessment was approved by Town Meeting in the fall of 2019 because of growing concerns that segments of the older adult population was underserved. “There are nearly 8,000 residents over the age of 60,” Mowry reported. “What we did was we gathered data in several different manners.” Data was collected from November 2019 through January 2020. Surveys by paper and electronic means were distributed to residents, providers and stakeholders. Topics ranged from isolation and loneliness to mental health, socialization, substance abuse, suicide and safety. “Although we distributed a really large number of surveys and tried to reach the most vulnerable population, we really had a significantly smaller response than we had hoped for,” Mowry said. “The data we are presenting tonight is reflecting just that small percentage of the population of 93 residents.” Rifkin noted that data was collected from focus groups with residents from the Shrewsbury Housing Authority properties, Senior Center, residents at Orchard Grove, Shrewsbury Men’s Club and Shrewsbury Women’s Club. Input was gathered from State Representative Hannah Kane (R-Shrewsbury), former Council on Aging (COA) outreach coordinator, Meals on Wheels, St. Anne’s Human Services, Shrewsbury Police and Fire chiefs, and Shrewsbury Public Library. Mowry provided a lengthy list of services provided in Shrewsbury, however some seniors said that the lack of transportation is a major concern which leads to isolation. “Meals on Wheels drivers really are the ones who are reaching the most vulnerable,” she added. Crisis response in town is non-existent and perhaps the
The reality is that the people who most need the Senior Center who may be struggling with the most significant mental health challenges are not accessing the Senior Center. — Jen Rifkin Shrewsbury Youth and Family Services
most challenging has been the stigma attached to the lack of understanding of behavioral issues and seniors’ persistent beliefs that mental health problems show weakness. Staff at the Shrewsbury Public Library have encountered a number of seniors who arrive under the influence or are confused and even psychotic. They are untrained to
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meet these needs. Rifkin referenced COA service gaps such as limited outreach to the most isolated, communication barriers, and limited hours and activity options. “The reality is that the people who most need the Senior Center who may be struggling with the most significant Assessment | 8
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Shrewsbury’s Annual Town Meeting to be held Aug.8 outside ATM | from page 1
Free Cash to Shrewsbury Youth and Family services for counseling and education services for families. Article 18 seeks support for the town to appropriate $15 million to upgrade the Shrewsbury Electric and Cable Operations Broadband Plant (SELCO.) This upgrade will take several years to complete and will bring fiber to the home while providing sustainability to SELCO given the decline of cable television customers. SELCO will be
responsible for the repayment of this debt. Other notable articles include: Article 23 seeks Town Meeting to authorize the Board of Selectmen to sell the property at 1 - 7 Maple Avenue, the current Beal Early Childhood Center, once the new Beal Elementary School is opened at 214 Lake St. Articles 31 through 34 pertain to the creation of a Town Center District. Article 35 would allow “Marijuana Cultivator” and
Dykema assists in crafting landmark House climate legislation BOSTON –State Rep. Carolyn Dykema (D-Holliston) recently joined her colleagues in the House of Representatives in passing H.4912, An Act creating a 2050 roadmap to a clean and thriving commonwealth. Following Greenworks legislation passed earlier this legislative session, this new bill is the most comprehensive response to climate change. The bill will now be taken up by a conference committee of three Senators and three Representatives to reconcile differences between bills passed by the two branches.
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Because of COVID-19 the state has yet to pass a fiscal year 2021 budget in place. Given this and many other unknowns related to COVID-19, the revenue model used for this budget has a higher level of uncertainty than a normal budget. Significant changes to this financial plan are likely at some point in the fiscal year. — Kevin Mizikar Town Manager
Board discusses older adult needs assessment Assessment | from page 7
mental health challenges are not accessing the Senior Center,” she said. Recommendations that came out of the assessment involve a community-wide collaboration. Of note is for the Shrewsbury Police Department to partner with Advocates, Inc. to develop a co-response jail diversion program to respond clinically to people in crisis. Selectman John Samia inquired about any impact to
services since COVID-19 after the assessment was completed in February. Mowry replied that the biggest concern has been food access but she also anticipates assessing technology and heating and oil in the fall. Selectman Jim Kane was concerned that only 93 out of 8,000 seniors participated in the survey and that the most vulnerable and in need were not being reached. “I think the folks that are currently doing to best job
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of reaching the most isolated and the most vulnerable residents are probably the Meals on Wheels folks. We have to find a way with the Council on Aging in particular to find a way to coordinate with Meals on Wheels to get that information,” remarked Rifkin. Board Chair Beth Casavant said that to her it boils down to “coordination, collaboration and communication” to bring together the patchwork of available social services that exist within the community.
Kelly named as Applefest 2020 grand marshal NORTHBOROUGH – The Applefest Committee has announced that although the traditional celebration will not be held this September, there will be a modified version. As such, they have also named Geoff Kelly, owner of Sir Loin’s Catering, as the grand marshal. Kelly was chosen, committee chair Michelle Gillespie said, for the many meals he made and donated to those in need during the pandemic this past spring. More details on Applefest 2020 will be forthcoming in the next few weeks.
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Developers expand on McGee Farm plans, face questions at site visit By Dakota Antelman Contributing Writer MARLBOROUGH - Developers and consultants behind a proposal for a condo complex at the old McGee Farm answered questions and offered new information at a virtual site visit, July 30. First gaining attention earlier this year, the project, submitted on behalf of WP Marlborough MA Owner, LLC based in Stamford, Conn, is proposed to be a “high-end residential” complex, to be known as Volaris Marlborough. It would consist of 188 units in four buildings along with garages, parking spaces, landscaping “open space and walking trails.” The property is located at 339 Boston Post Road (Route 20 East). Seventy percent of the sprawling property will remain open space, developers say. Within that, landscaping will turn large swaths of land into everything from a dog park, to gravel trails. “We’re planning something that’s really nice and really high end,” Tom Moran said of his group’s efforts. “It fits the community in which we’re building.” The Marlborough City Council first reviewed permit requests in mid-May before sending the matter to the Urban Affairs Committee. They finally discussed plans on July 20 after a lengthy delay. Concurrently with the permitting process, residents have flooded City Council members with complaints and at least one online petition opposing the development. Aware of the opinions surrounding their proposal, those working on this project sought to reassure site visit viewers. “We know it’s difficult,” said Giles Ham, a traffic engineering consultant from the firm Vanasse & Associates. “We’re not telling you it’s not difficult… But this project is not going to dramatically change things.” Though they will be filling some wetlands, Ham said he and his team will be replacing those spaces at a 2.8/1 ratio with artificial wetlands elsewhere on site. Dave Robinson, a civil engineering and land survey consultant from the firm Allen & Major Associates, said the property will also feature complex draining systems to avoid groundwater pollution. With snowmelt in particular, he said
We’re planning something that’s really nice and really high end. It fits the community in which we’re building. — Tom Moran
Aerial view of proposed project site
his team has identified locations to store large piles Finally, condo construction will coincide with work on Rt. 20 itself, as the Mass. Department of Transportation helps widen the roadway. “It will help traffic flow better in and out of our site,” Ham said of that project. As developers wrapped up their comments, though, residents and elected officials remained apprehensive. “I’m having a hard time imagining adding that many cars at that spot,” City Council Member Laura Wagner said. “… It just seems like there’s going to be a massive problem with traffic congestion.” She joined a chorus of voices criticizing developers’ reliance on “modeling” in their presentation, which argued the minimal traffic impact of new condos. “I don’t think modeling is the answer,” Priscilla Ryder of the Conservation Commission said. “I think people need to sit on this a little.” Ryder also worried about aforementioned snowmelt plans. Ryder, in fact, said her wing of city government would likely require further amendments to existing permit requests as the city does not gen-
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erally allow snow storage on grass. “If it’s treated with chemicals, it will still seep into the ground,” Wagner said, echoing concerns. This project is moving forward. Hearing responses from local leaders like Ryder, though, developers said they recognize that their plans have and probably will continue to undergo changes. As criticism persists, the next step in the ongoing permitting process is a meeting with the Urban Affairs Committee for further review of plans.
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10 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, August 7, 2020
Northborough Scouts hold international meet with troop in England
Scouts enjoy meeting via a Zoom call.
By Nance Ebert Contributing Writer NORTHBOROUGH – Northborough Scoutmaster George Brenckle recognized how disappointed his troop has been with all of the long awaited planned activities cancelled due to COVID-19. “With an inability to meet in person, we certainly did experience a disappointing spring,” he said.” Whitewater rafting and other trips were not possible at this time. We were try-
ing to have our weekly meeting virtually on Zoom rather than meet face to face. This worked out fine for a bit but we still wanted to try something different.” After reading about a troop in Virginia that virtually met with a troop in Afghanistan, Brenckle’s interest peaked. “…Scouting is absolutely international in nature and … it exists everywhere,” Brenckle said. “While there are a lot of limitations with holding a virtual meeting, geography is not
one of them. We then decided to try and reach out to Scouts in other areas and see if we could make this joint event happen.” He, along with the members of Troop 1, decided to brainstorm who they could meet with and reach out to. “The original leads I had were in Columbia and Brazil, which posed an additional language barrier challenge, as well as Ireland and England. The leaders in England, Vicky Barnett and Jessica Harman, responded right away and we
both agreed that it would be a fun endeavor,” said Brenckle. Scouting in England is coed and so for this event, Troop 1 and Troop 823, a female troop led by Scoutmaster Shannon McDonald, came together. The participating Scouts were asked to wear their uniforms so they could see what Scouts in other countries wear. After a group meeting, the approximately 30 Scouts were broken down into three virtual rooms during which they compared programs and activities. “Everyone really enjoyed this experience and the first event lasted over two hours,”
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Brenckle noted. “The Scouts were totally engaged and they are already looking forward to the next get together. We are brainstorming ideas to share more of our culture and history, perhaps with trivia questions about our countries….” The Scouts from both countries benefitted from the exchange. “I think the meeting went very well,” said Senior Patrol Leader Colin McDonald. “Not only did we get to learn some cool things about them, but we also got to see the surprising amount of differences between how our Scout troops are run.”
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Shrewsbury –John Lebeaux, commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources, stopped by the Shrewsbury Farmers Market July 29 to announce that Gov. Charlie Baker has declared the first week in August as Massachusetts Farmers Market Week. Lebeaux, who is also a member of the Shrewsbury Board of Selectmen, noted that he was happy to be doing so in his hometown where the local farmers market is set up in the Senior Center parking lot 98 Maple Ave., every Wednesday from 2:30-6:30 p.m. “I’d like to read this for all the farmers markets throughout the state and for all the residents of the state who we encourage to shop at our farmers markets,” he said in reading the official proclamation. The document highlighted the commonwealth’s vibrant agriculture industry with 7,241 farms. Farmers markets carry out a rich heritage and create economic vitality for Massachusetts farmers and food
producers. They also serve as public and community gathering places as they promote supporting local business. On another note, when asked about the recent mysterious packages with seeds from China that are arriving in people’s mail boxes across the country, Lebeaux shared, “We are working closely with the U.S. Department of Agriculture on this matter and honestly the early thinking is that this something called a ‘brushing scam’…this has to do with boosting online sales presence.” Anyone who receives these packages are urged to report them and determine how best to dispose of the seeds by visiting https://www.mass.gov/forms/ receipt-of-unsolicited-seeds . Officials advised in a press release, “For now, we ask that you hold onto the seeds and packaging, including the mailing label. USDA is currently collecting seed packages from recipients and will test their contents to determine if they contain anything that could be of concern to U.S. agriculture or the environment. Do not plant seeds from unknown origins.”
COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, August 7, 2020 • 11
COMMUNITYSPORTS Adult sports leagues push onward amid COVID-19 reopening By Dakota Antelman Contributing Writer
of the Westborough Recreation Department. “From what I have seen and heard, everyone is doing their part to follow all of the guidelines as the last thing anyone wants is another shutdown.” Due to the emergency orders restricting public life across Massachusetts, sports leagues cancelled games until further notice. “We had been going back and forth about what to do,” said Ken Toris of the Marlborough Curling Club, a rec league with membership from across the region. “That kind of made the decision for us.” Even as recreation departments restricted activity in public spaces to “passive use,” Angela Snell of the Shrewsbury Recreation Department said she and her staff saw a
REGION - A staple of many local adults’ lives each summer - recreational sports - looks different amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Athletes practice social distancing on the bench and wear masks when not on the field. Organizers collect contact information to trace possible virus outbreaks should they crop up. And the typical postgame lunches and dinners certainly are not happening. After months of quarantine, any number of athletes and local leaders have mixed feelings about all this. “Outdoor sports are providing people a sense of normalcy,” said Jennifer Kirkland
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marked increase in public interest in her town’s facilities. Familiar leagues could not move forward, so people turned to other sports. Snell said more people were walking or running this spring. Tennis courts saw increased foot traffic as well. “People have been wanting to get their exercise and be outside,” she said. Recreational sports started up again in Phase 3 of Massachusetts’ reopening. In Marlborough, the Ward Park Pickleball league resumed singles play June 15. Snell said her department has been working with Shrewsbury rec leagues to revive the programming that was cancelled this spring. Kirkland said her agency has worked with baseball and
softball leagues in their town, approving the start of seasons after July 4. The Marlborough Curling Club, meanwhile, is eyeing an early August return. “A lot of us are looking to get back on the ice,” Tonis said. “We’re looking to get that sense of normalcy back. It will be nice to get back out.” There are, of course, numerous precautions in place. Ward Park Pickleball plays a game similar to tennis with wooden paddles and a ball similar to a Wiffle Ball. They’ve done away with traditional free play events and mandated social distancing. The group is also strictly enforcing state rules requiring out-of-state travelers to quarantine before rejoining in-person community activities.
On the ice, caution has been key for the Marlborough Curling Club. “I don’t want to bring people back on to the ice and then have there be an outbreak,” Tonis said. “That would really crush me, and it would defeat the purpose of what we’re trying to do right now.” Whether it’s curling, pickleball, softball or soccer, local adults are happy to have their sports back. In the end, though, it’s not the same. After all, these rec leagues are meant to be social activities for the athletes and socialization is hard spaced six feet apart. “A lot of people are missing that [socialization],” Joanne Avery of Ward Park Pickleball said. “Hopefully we’ll get back to that sooner or later.”
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COMMUNITYSCHOOLS WHS graduates ‘the great and gritty class of 2020’ WHS | from page 1
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Valedictorian Nishka Pant reminisced about memorable experiences with her classmates while also giving a shoutout to family and faculty. Class President Rhea Balasubramanian advised her classmates to find the power for a revolution of equality. School Committee Chair Sara Dullea assured the graduating seniors that the entire town of Westborough rallied for them. Superintendent Amber Bock reflected on the range of emotions – from joy to pain – that they endured during the past six months. Principal Brian Callaghan drew applause when he proclaimed, “We all made it!” Encouraging the graduating seniors to remember the positive side of recent challenges, he noted that they’re WHS’s only class whose senior year began and ended with a parade. He also commended their resilience for making the graduation ceremony occur. “Congratulations to the great and gritty class of 2020!” Callaghan cheered. For more photos, visit communityadvocate.com.
Valedictorian Nishka Pant reminiscences about classmates.
Left: Alyssa Hogan returns to her seat with diploma in hand.
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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, August 7, 2020 • 13
Hudson eyes school reopening amid parents’ concerns and equipment delays By Dakota Antelman Contributing Writer HUDSON - Buildings and Grounds Director Len Belli said he is yet to receive a crucial piece of sanitation equipment he ordered for the Hudson Public Schools three months ago. With reopening of schools fast approaching, talk of that long-delayed shipment fell into an already jam-packed docket of concerns addressed at Hudson’s latest School Committee meeting July 28. “It’s no surprise to anyone how daunting and how difficult this task is,” Superintendent Marco Rodrigues said. “A lot of things are happening.... we continue to evolve.” Like every school district in the state, Hudson administrators have spent weeks making sense of state and federal guidelines as they eye some form of reopening this fall. Rodrigues said he favors a hybrid approach to learning, splitting students into four “cohorts.” Within that, students in cohort “A” would attend in-person, socially distanced classes on Monday and Tuesday before then switching to remote learning Thursday and Friday. Cohort “B” students would run on an opposite schedule, leaving Wednesday as a transition day for teachers to run synchronous online activities and complete lesson plans. Students with higher needs due to disability or English language learning status, among other things, would fall under cohort “C,” attending classes every weekday except for Wednesday. Finally, students who opt out of the in-person portions of their hybrid education would fall into cohort “D” for full-
When in doubt, caution is the best starting point. Maybe we should be working out the kinks in online learning before then moving on to in-person learning. — Shannon Cleveland
time remote learning. “It’s a way better model where we can have more appropriate social distancing in our classrooms,” Rodrigues said. However, Rodrigues and school committee members heard extensive comments and concerns from a digital crowd of constituents at their virtual meeting. “When in doubt, caution is
the best starting point,” one speaker, Shannon Cleveland, said. “Maybe we should be working out the kinks in online learning before then moving on to in-person learning.” Others agreed, recalling frustrations with online learning this spring and fearing the ramifications of an in-person reopening gone bad. “There will be cases when
the schools reopen,” parent Erin Mauro said. “It would be foolish to think there won’t be.” Cheryl Langell, a representative of Hudson’s special education advisory group called perceived shortcomings in the town’s IEP accommodations under its reopening plans. Others voiced budgetary concerns. The district took a 2 percent budget cut at Town Meeting earlier this year. Just after completing their reopening discussion, though, the School Committee approved close to $100,000 in spending on PPE and items like plexiglass shielding for office spaces. And new guidelines from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education have cut bus capacity is by almost 70 percent, possibly necessitating more transportation expenses. Then, there’s Len Belli and
his custodial staff. Belli said he anticipates electricity costs will spike this year due to an increased strain on HVAC systems that would need to run more frequently to ventilate schools. Also, the delayed shipment of that aforementioned sanitation unit could incur higher personnel costs. The district already has one such device. Able to clean a room via mist in as little as 30 seconds, according to Belli, that machine allows janitors to work both effectively and efficiently. If their new unit does not arrive in time for the start of school, the current single machine could not sanitize every room in every school in town each night. Staff would manually clean surfaces. “We can do it,” Belli said. “But it’s going to take manpower and hours.”
Legislators agree to bill expanding student access to school breakfast REGION - The House and Senate have approved legislation providing expanded school breakfast options to Massachusetts students in low-income communities. State Rep. Hannah Kane (RShrewsbury), said House Bill 4218, An Act regarding breakfast after the bell, will help students be better prepared for learning by providing them with a nutritious breakfast at school. The bill was enacted in both legislative branches on July 28, and is now on Governor Charlie Baker’s desk awaiting his signature. According to the Ending Hunger in Our Classrooms 2019 Annual Report, Mas-
sachusetts ranks 33rd out of 50 states in the percentage of low-income children who eat a school breakfast every day. The report estimates that nearly 159,000 low-income students in the commonwealth do not have access to a nutritious morning meal at school each day. To address this problem, House Bill 4218 requires public schools to provide a school breakfast after the beginning of the instructional day if at least 60 percent of the students are eligible for free or reduced-price meals under the federal National School Lunch Program. The bill gives schools the flexibility to choose which
breakfast service model best suits its students, including breakfast in the classroom, grab and go breakfast served from mobile carts or kiosks located in the school, or a second chance breakfast offered during breaks between classes. H4218 was a Food System Caucus priority bill, and as a founding member and Co-Chair of the Food System Caucus, Kane noted in a press release from her office that she “is especially glad to see it passed by the Legislature, noting that it will make an even bigger impact on commonwealth students during this time of heightened food insecurity.” House Bill 4218 directs the
Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to develop guidelines and regulations to assist schools with implementing breakfast after the bell. DESE must also conduct an initial assessment of all schools required to offer breakfast after the bell by December 31, 2021, with the goal of implementing the program at the start of the 2022-2023 academic year. A school can obtain a oneyear waiver from the breakfast after the bell requirement if it already has a breakfast participation rate of 80 percent or higher, or if the school demonstrates an extreme hardship related to implementation.
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to seniors in high school. The goal is to give all students access to quality academic support, especially in a time where afterschool resources are not available. As Rajeshkanna and Dai, along with students across the country, adjusted from learning in the classroom to learning at the dining room table, they realized they were
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Dai, two high schoolers from Northborough, were two of the students experiencing this problem. But they decided to do something about it. Rajeshkanna and Dai, both 16, recently launched a free online tutoring service called “Aptitutor.” Aptitutor is made for kindergarteners all the way up
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It came to our attention that with the shift to shorter online classes, students weren’t receiving the thorough, comprehensive education that full-length, in-person classes offer. On top of that, free supplemental education was not readily accessible. — Cynthia Rajeshkanna
not receiving the same quality of education. They were also noticing that not all students had access to the kinds of learning they had, such as SAT preparation. “It came to our attention that with the shift to shorter online classes, students weren’t receiving the thorough, comprehensive education that full-length, in-person classes offer,” said Rajeshkanna. “On top of that, free supplemental education was not readily accessible.” They set out to build a strong and qualified network of tutors that could offer their support and guidance to all students. Tutors applying to be a part of Aptitutor go through a hiring process, which consists of a written application followed by an interview on Zoom. The founders say this examines the applicant’s academic and social skills, since tutoring is a job that requires brains and interpersonal communication. Aptitutor offers a wide variety of classes, ranging from computer coding to art. Tutors offer an in-depth look into a specific topic in a 30- to 40-minute lesson on Zoom. Students are able to register for upcoming classes on Aptitutor’s website. The founders added they
feel many of today›s problems stem from lack of education. In the future, they hope to offer a course about the issues going on throughout the country and the world. “We’re all learners,” said Rajeshkanna. The next step for Aptitutor is applying for a 501c status so the service can become an official nonprofit in the state of Massachusetts. They said they hope to file for the status by the end of the summer. The girls also hope to receive educational grants to help them keep moving forward. They have also received strong support for their enterprise from the community. Rajeshkanna and Dai said they are passionate about what they are building and they believe everyone deserves access to high quality learning. They are working to spread the word about their free service and are asking others to do the same. More exposure will help them build a bigger network that can encompass even more instructors and students. More information can be found at https://aptitutornonprofit.wixsite.com/aptitutor or on their social media pages, @aptitutornonprofit on Instagram and @aptitutor on Twitter.
COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, August 7, 2020 • 15
Rising freshman face unique college transition amid pandemic By Dakota Antelman Contributing Writer REGION - Advanced Math and Science Academy Charter School (AMSA) graduate Ian Harvey had a shortlist of colleges he was considering committing to this spring. Then, the coronavirus hit, and Harvey opted for the safe route, choosing UMass Amherst over campuses he had not and now would not get to visit. “I can’t commit to a school that I’ve never been to,” he said. As COVID-19 has upended almost every aspect of life over the past four months, rising college freshmen have been hit in unique ways. That’s left students and their families unsure of what to expect as they reach a major milestone in early adulthood. “I had no idea how I was going to make a decision at all,” Harvey said. From Harvey’s confusion over committing to questions about the possibility of online classes in the fall, very little is certain even as the scheduled start of the semester quickly approaches. Vasant Sundaresan had excitedly committed to New York University this year to study music. Speaking to the Community Advocate in May, though, he said he was wary of any moves away from inperson education in particular. “Most of the things you learn in music school involves
I want to be hopeful and say that I’m going to Temple University on Aug. 22 when I’m supposed to move in. I hope I get to look back at this and say, you know what... at least I got to go to college on time. — Josh Sternburg
connecting with people and going to studios and stuff,” he said. “I’m not sure that can happen online.” While others shared Sundaresan’s concerns about remote learning, many have been equally concerned about the alternative should their colleges “go online” - taking a gap year. “It’s been so much work over the past few years to get to this point,” Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School graduate Noah Fernandes said. “It would be a shame to push it back now.” Fernandes plans to attend MassART in Boston this fall. He was echoed by Marlborough’s Cam Sinopoli, who is headed to Suffolk University just a few miles down the road. “I’m prepared to do online classes [if that’s what it takes],” he said. “The transition won’t be ideal. But I don’t think it will be too much.” As COVID-19 has snarled the
spring commitment process and raised questions about online classes, it’s also brought massive changes to the traditional orientation events that normally fill students’ summers before college. Most schools have tried to convert at least part of their programming to remote, digitally accessible formats. But the experience has been almost unilaterally muted. “I’ve been keeping tabs on things,” Fernandes said of MassART’s orientations. He noted he’s seen turnout stay “pretty small” in the events he’s logged into. Area colleges were some of the first major institutions to shut their doors back in March. Densely populated dorms, packed cafeterias and large lecture halls simply made the typical campus dangerous petri dishes amid a pandemic. Now, parts of the country are reopening and students want to go back to school.
Their schools want them to come as well. But coronavirus cases are also rising in parts of the country, and some students remain confused, anxious and even frustrated about their college’s plans. Westborough’s Josh Sternburg is aware of all this. He knows cases could surge again and understands his freshman fall semester will not look like
those of his older fellow graduates. Still, he’s hanging on to some optimism. He says that helps. “I want to be hopeful and say that I’m going to Temple University on Aug. 22 when I’m supposed to move in,” he said. “I hope I get to look back at this and say, you know what... at least I got to go to college on time.”
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Marlborough School Committee votes to start school with hybrid model By Vicki Greene Contributing Writer MARLBOROUGH - The School Committee July 28 approved Superintendent Michael Bergeron’s recommendation for a hybrid plan for start of the 2020-2021 year. The city must still turn in three plans to the state by Friday, July 31 - hybrid, full time in class and full remote. The Mass State Education Commission has approved an extra 10-day delay as well to allow schools more time to prepare. Marlborough will use that time to for professional development, so that faculty will be comfortable using the
new model and technology. Under the hybrid model, 60 percent of students are in buildings on any given day. According to Bergeron, students will be divided by alphabet; the plan is to try to keep siblings on the same schedule so families can keep consistent schedules as much as possible. Masks will be required in school and on buses and mask breaks provided. Meals will be prepackaged and for remote learners there will be a similar meal pickup plan as is being used this summer. The latest parents survey indicated 70 percent plan to send their kids to school while 30 percent had plans to keep
their kids home. The hybrid model allows all classrooms to be six feet apart. All students will have access to a device and the administration is working on access to hotspots for every student that needs one. Pre-K and K will be AM/PM. Grades 1-2 will all be in school full time given the critical years for literacy and desks will be spread out six feet apart. As for the High School, all 10th grade will be in school full time (at six feet desk distance). Depending on the class levels some juniors will be required to be in school full time. All special education and ESL levels 1 and 2 will also be in school full-time.
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coffers label it, “panicmoving.” Others call it common sense. Wherever you stand, there is little doubt that, as the pandemic continues to surge, the flight of families from city to suburbs is picking up steam across the nation. “Young New York couples typically put off a move to the suburbs until after the birth of their second child,” said Elizabeth Nunan, president of Houlihan Lawrence, a leading New York residential brokerage. “It gives them time to save some money and enjoy the perks of city living until the need for space and the cost of childcare make the family-friendly suburbs a better choice.” But circumstances have flipped the concept on its ear “Living in the epicenter of the coronavirus pandemic left most New Yorkers justifiably fearful,” Nunan said. “Theaters and restaurants have all but shut down and, perhaps most important of all, thousands of parents now working from home see that as a continuing possibility at least part of
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the time.” For many, Nunan observed, the idea of trading crowds and traffic for a safe space with an outdoor garden quickly grew in appeal - and the perfect storm of changing priorities, professional opportunity, and low interest rates makes it sensible to move up the timeline. A move to the suburbs is costly “The entry price point for a single-family home in Westchester, Greenwich and similar areas within easy reach of the city is close to $2 million,” Nunan said, “and yet the search for such homes is up some 60 percent over this time last year because, in the age of coronavirus, no one wants to share an elevator or other facilities in a less expensive condo or co-op.” And the market is hugely competitive “It’s definitely a seller’s market,” said Nunan. “Couples are draining their savings, dipping into retirement, getting help from their parents, or pulling cash out of the stock market. Some are making all-cash offers to help them prevail in a multiple-bid situation.” Atlanta Realtor Debbie Sonenshein, a luxury home specialist with Coldwell Banker, sees a similar dynamic. “The market revved up fast here in Atlanta,” she said, “where local buyers are competing with buyers flooding in from out of state for upscale homes in the Atlanta suburbs, where a good-sized property with a pool and maybe a view is less costly than in other areas.” With inventor y low, Sonenshein said she and
her team are selling newon-market, single-family homes in good condition for somewhere between $1.65 million and $4 million depending on size, location and features. “Many of my buyers are in health-related fields,” she said, “young doctors, nurses, people in medical product manufacturing or technology who want to move their families away from cities and hospitals into safer spaces. Others just want to be able to grow tomatoes and bake bread with their kids in a cleaner, greener environment.” The team frequently makes use of 3D home tours and other visual technologies, Sonenshein added, to help clients narrow their choice, greatly reducing the need for in-home showings. “ We have far fewer homes than we have enthusiastic buyers,” she said. “In-person showings are for serious buyers only, and you’d better be prepared to move.” Perceptions can vary about where the suburbs begin and end “People in San Francisco see Oakland as a suburb, while people in Oakland are swarming into the East Bay or even up to mountain vacation areas like Lake Tahoe,” said Linnette Edwards, founder and associate broker of Abio Properties in northern California. “With inventory tight and interest rates low, buyers are literally coming out of the woodwork, including many young buyers tired of living and working, and even home-schooling, in their 800 square-foot apartments.” Bidding wars are com-
mon, she said, with as many as 15 offers on a singlefamily residence not at all unusual. “Young buyers, especially, who can work from home and aren’t tied to their employer’s location, are scrambling to find smaller detached homes with enough yard space to add on office space or an extra bedroom,” she said. “Prices are ticking up a bit in most areas because of the high demand,” Edwards said. “But it’s still possible to find entry-level homes for well under $1 million in parts of Oakland and in some East Bay cities, and that is driving demand.” One local lender, she said, pre-approved 268 borrowers for home purchases in June - an all-time record for the company, up more than 100 percent from last June, when they pre-approved 124 buyers. “The biggest problem we have is tight inventory,” Edwards said, “although sellers are slowly coming back into the market as they realize the value of their properties.” Values are changing as people in the age of pandemic re-evaluate what is important to them, said Edwards, who recently purchased a second-home getaway for her own family. L et me guide you in achieving all of your real estate goals. Even in these uncertain times there is p l e n t y o f ac t i v i t y w i t h families moving and homes are closing! I will put my years of experience to work for you…. knowledge, expertise, professionalism, reputation 508-735-5161, Equigley@ ownnewengland.com. A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC.
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COMMUNITYBUSINESS Lake Street Estates set to offer homeowners high-quality, low maintenance lifestyle Shrewsbury’s only 55 plus single-family detached condo complex A single-family home in the Lake Street Estates condo complex
By Kathryn Severance Contributing Writer SHREWSBURY - Located off of 585 Lake St. in Shrewsbury, the Lake Street Estates condo complex of Shrewsbury is set to offer local 55-plus residents with a low-maintenance, high-quality detached single-family home option when making moves to downsize in anticipation of, or after retirement. The complex is brokered by agent Fran Casanova Silva of Your New Home Marketing, LLC. It is ideal for the person who wants to live a full life after retirement, without the stress. Condo fees cover labor-intensive tasks such as snow removal, fall outdoor clean-up, landscaping, as well as trash removal, while residents with a green thumb can choose to plant spring flowers in front of their living space if desired. Additional features that add to an easier lifestyle include central vacuum features and tiled bathrooms, as they will make for easy cleaning.
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Lake Street Estates homeowners won’t have to lift a finger to install an obnoxious AC during hot weather since they will have access to central air conditioning. Similarly, natural gas heat and gas fireplaces will add warmth and ambiance during the winter as temperatures drop and owners (and their loved ones) don’t have to worry about staying warm enough at home. An additional benefit is that residents won’t have to worry about parting with their furry companion when making the move because Lake Street Estates is pet-friendly. The com-
plex offers senior pet owners with plenty of space to enjoy a sunny afternoon stroll with Fido. According to Silva, pre-construction sales have performed well and all homes are expected to be purchased by the close of 2020. If you’re interested in being a part of Shrewsbury Lake Estates and experiencing the community’s first 55 plus detached condo complex, you should look into it soon. “The last few weeks have been quite active with sales and we expect the summer months to continue that way. Our first
10 homes are to be sold at preconstruction prices with lots of upgrades and options included. All homes feature 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and range from over 1,600 to 2,050 sq. feet in floor space. They include a $5K appliance allowance for kitchens and laundry areas, granite countertops, hardwood floors, crown molding, and wainscoting. Add-on options are also available at an additional cost, including a finished basement with an additional bathroom, or a 4-season sunroom,” shares Silva. Developers of the complex
are well-known for their quality craftsmanship with similar properties such as Birchwood in Marlborough, Peter Farm in Auburn, Compass Point and Lily Mere in Boylston, and Leah Estates in Ashland. Most importantly, those who are still in-process of selling their family home as they downsize shouldn’t fret, as Silva indicates that the complex will accept contingencies until a condo owner’s prior home is sold. Your New Home Marketing LLC Lake Street Estates holds open houses most weekends for Lake Street Estates and takes individual appointments during the week. For more information on how to become part of Shrewsbury›s only 55 plus detached condo complex, call Fran at 508-208-9371 or email Your New Home Marketing at Yournewhome4@aol.com. Editor’s Note: the preceding is not an endorsement and is presented for informational purposes only.
SUPER CROSSWORD
Answers to puzzle located on p. 19
18 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, August 7, 2020
POLICELOG The information in the police log is obtained directly from the official records maintained at each police station in our circulation area. Those arrested are innocent until proven guilty. The Community Advocate will publish news of acquittals upon notification and a copy of court issued documentation.
Marlborough
Friday, July 24 7:02 a.m. Arrested, Karyn A. Kenney, 52, of 17A Mountain Ave., Marlborough, on
warrant. Sunday, July 26 12:35 a.m. Arrested, Santos Veliz Alvarez, 37, of 3 Mill St., Apt. 2, Shirley, for possess open container of alcohol in MV, leave scene of property damage, op MV with license suspended. Monday, July 27 6:02 a.m. Arrested, Diego D. Jordao, 22, of 48 Briarwood Ln., Apt. 10, Marlborough, on warrant. 7:07 a.m. Arrested, Karyn A. Kenney, 52, of 17A Mountain Ave., Marlborough, on warrant.
Tuesday, July 28 9:16 a.m. Arrested, William John Fournier Jr., 30, of 44 Gay St., Marlborough, for larceny under $1200, warrant. Wednesday, July 29 12:44 a.m. Arrested, Sandra L. Burris, 59, of 496 Lincoln St., Apt. 11, Marlborough, for disorderly conduct, threat to commit crime, A&B on police officer.
Shrewsbury
Saturday, July 25 11:12 a.m. Arrested, Anthony Michael Kilcullen, 28, of 4
Bernard Rd., N Grafton, for poss Class A substance, poss Class A w/intent to distribute. Thursday, July 30 2:51 p.m. Arrested, Andre Silveira Santiago, 40, of 50 Pleasant St., Northborough, on warrant.
Southborough
Thursday, July 23 2:19 a.m. Arrested, Raul A. Sandoval, of Fontaine St., Marlborough, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, marked lanes violation, speeding/rate of speed exceeding posted limit.
Westborough
Monday, July 20 6:00 p.m. Arrested, Albert Essiam, 53, of 188 Austin St., Apt. 52D, Worcester, for op MV with registration suspended, OUI-liquor or .08%, marked lanes violation. Thursday, July 23 7:58 p.m. Arrested, Sean Conner, 29, of 2128 Kennedy Ave., Baltimore, Md., for OUIliquor or .08%, unlicensed operation of MV, negligent operation of motor vehicle. Friday, July 24 2:36 a.m. Arrested, Terrence T. Depatie, 40, of 26 Gertrude St., Uxbridge, on warrant.
COMMUNITYOBITUARIES Lucile Digou, 91 MARLBOROUGH - Lucile Digou “Mother, Ma, Lu” 91 passed away peacefully on July 20, 2020 at UMass-Marlborough Hospital after a brief illness. Lucile was born February 23, 1929 to Harold and Wilma Belmore. Lucile married the love of her life Charles “Chuck” Digou on September 3, 1950, and with him brought 9 children into the world. Besides caring for her children, Lucile also was a waitress for many years at the Oxford Restaurant and then the Marlborough Country Club. Upon retiring Chuck and Lu purchased and ran “Chuck’s Wagon” Diner on Lincoln St. in Marlborough for many years. After Chuck’s passing Lu ran “The Diner” with the help of some of her children. Lucile was predeceased by her husband “Chuck” or as she affectionately called him “Gid” in 1989. Lucile was also predeceased by her daughter Christine. Lucile is survived by her children, son Charles and his friend Sharon Collari, daughter Cynthia Madden and her husband Brian, son David, daughter Diane Ogar and her husband William, daughter Carol Krager and her husband Carl, son Dennis and his longtime friend Kim Garcia, daughter Marlborough Police Officer Catherine Digou and her fiancé William Orr and son Christopher and his wife Karen, and her “only adopted son” Paul “Polock” Polewacyk. Lucile also leaves behind
8 grandchildren, Jesse Digou and his wife Casey, Keith Madden, David and Kristie Digou, Jamie and Joseph Ogar, James Winchester and his wife Megan and Matthew Winchester and his wife Brenda. Lucile also had 14 great grandchildren, Ava, Nolan, Kalla, Nicholas, Olivia, Makayla, Aubrey, Morgan, Alexis, Justin, Andrew, Joshua, Kendra, and Mila. The family would like to extend their gratitude for the extraordinary care provided to her by everyone at Christopher Heights Assisted Living Facility in Marlborough which was home for the last six years, also to all the Staff on Granger 2 (especially Nurse Karen Buckley) at U-Mass-Marlborough Hospital and Hospice. Graveside services will be held at Evergreen Cemetery on Saturday, Aug. 15, at 10 a.m. Arrangements are being handled by Tighe-Hamilton Regional Funeral Home, 50 Central Street, Hudson.
Paul J. Ustin, 99 GRAFTON - Paul John Ustin passed away at UMass Memorial Hospital Monday evening July 20, 2020. He was born at home Feb. 21, 1921 the son of Andrew and Annie (Petrikevich) Ustinovich. He is survived by his daughter, Paula of Grafton; his son Michael, his wife Marie of East Baldwin, Maine; step granddaughter Lisa and her husband Jeff Asendorf; step greatgrandson Ryan Asendorf; step
great-granddaughter Katrina Jackman and great-greatgranddaughter Mika and greatgreat-grandson Gauge. all of Moriches, N.Y.; his brother, Daniel and his wife Helen of Spring Grove, Pa.; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife, June Ustin; brothers Nicholai Ustinovich, Peter Ustinovich and George Ustinovich; and sisters Olga Cox, Gladys Byrne, Jenny Premo, Stacia Maloney and Sally Eteson. Funeral services will be held for family only at a later date. Roney Funeral Home of North Grafton is assisting with arrangements.
Timothy M. Anderson, 55 SPENCER - Timothy M. Anderson, 55, of Spencer, formerly Shrewsbury, passed away July 24, 2020 after being stricken ill at home. Timothy was born, February 7, 1965, in Worcester, one of five children of Paul and Joehanna (Holden) Anderson. Timmy is survived by the family he loved, his wife of 25 years, Denise A. (Kalagher) Anderson; his two children, Emily G. and Cameron T. Anderson, both of Spencer; his parents, Paul and Joehanna (Holden) Anderson of Shrewsbury; a brother, Kevin Anderson of Holden; sisters, Colleen Johnson and her husband Gus of Chatham, Paula Carey and her husband David of Shrewsbury, and Karen Chamber-
lain and her husband Joseph of Millbury; his father- and mother-in-law, Robert F. and Sharon (Mercadante) Kalagher of Worcester; sisters-in-law, Lori Pepper and her husband James of Worcester, Colleen Travaglio and her husband John of Shrewsbury, Sarah Fontaine and her husband Matthew of Dalton, and Amy Leduc and her husband Brett of Worcester; and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. His funeral was held July 30 from the Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel of Worcester, with a Mass of Christian burial at St Anne’s Church of Shrewsbury and burial at St. John’s Cemetery.
Laurie Bilodeau, 32 M AY NA R D Laurie Joanne Bilodeau, 32, of Maynard, formerly of Westborough, passed away peacefully July 23, 2020 with loving family by her side after a courageous battle against cancer. Born in Framingham, she was the daughter of Thomas A. and Maryanne (Pratt) Bilodeau of Westborough. In addition to her parents, she is survived by her sister, Kelly Marie Bilodeau; her nephew, Aiden David Bilodeau, who she adored; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and close friends.
Her funeral Mass was celebrated July 30 at St. Luke the Evangelist Church of Westborough, with burial at St. Luke’s Cemetery. The Pickering & Son Upton Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
Ellen N. Stumpf, 88 SHREWSBURy Ellen N. (Budge) Stumpf, 88, of Shrewsbury and formerly of Westborough, passed away peacefully July 23, 2020 in the comfort of her home, with her loving daughters by her side. Ellen is survived by her children, Sandra S. Reams and her husband Timothy of East Falmouth, Sheila A. LoCascio and her husband Salvatore of Shrewsbury, Joseph C. Stumpf and his wife Robin of Newington, Conn., and Maria L. Chase and her husband Scott of Northbridge, and four grandchildren, Emily Stumpf, Joshua Stumpf, Stephanie LoCascio, and Skylar Chase, as well as four nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, Charles F. Stumpf, in 1988, and her brother, Donald B. Budge of Newton. Services will be held privately for Mrs. Stumpf’s family and burial will be with her husband at Blue Hill Cemetery of Braintree. The Britton-Shrewsbury Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.
COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, August 7, 2020 • 19
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MOHAWK FENCE Mike O’Brien
508-614-5507
email: Mike@Mohawkfence.com
EVANGELOUS ROOFING
Owner on Every Job, No Subcontractors Lifetime warranty Most Jobs Completed in 1-2 Days Fully Licensed & Insured Call Ted Evangelous for a
FREE ESTIMATE
Office 508-485-ROOF Cell 508-400-0380 www.southbororoofing.com
LAWN BOYZ
SCOTTS
CARPENTRY
LANDSCAPING
FJOJTI $BSQFOUSZ t 8PPE 3PU 3FQBJS t )BOEZ .BO 4FSWJDF 4UPSN %PPST t 1BJOUJOH 5JMF *OTUBMMBUJPO t 4NBMM +PCT Veteran owned and operated since 1980.
• Summer Clean up & Maintenance • Lawn Renovations • Walkways/Patios/Walls • Trimming • Designing & Sprinkler install • Bobcat services
508-410-2756
Licensed & Insured / Shrewsbury, MA
YOU NAME IT WE DO IT!
TDPUUT DBSQFOUSZ!ZBIPP DPN
• SPAS • ABOVE GROUND •LINER POOLS • GUNITE
774-275-0089
NO POOL TOO SMALL
Need a Message of Hope?
lawnbz@gmail.com Book Now & get a FREE MOW!
This week’s Super Crossword is on page 17.
Call Herb Tebo for Estimates
For Sale and Services
SUE’S CLEANING Cell: 508.328.3838 1.800.649.3095 508.476.3095
Guitars
Handcrafted & Custom
Repair of All Stringed Instruments
r 1SFDJTJPO 8PSL
Beckwith Strings 978-833-6383
Grafton, MA www.beckwithstrings.com
Inspirational Messages
24 Hours H Everyday E d
Call Dial-A-Friend
(508) 852-5242
Residential
Free Estimates Great References (508)756-9842 Convert Your Camcorder
Tapes to DVDs!
TRY BEFORE YOU BUY!
FULLER RV RENTALS & SALES CLASS A, B & C MOTORHOMES TRAILERS PARTS • PROPANE TRANSPORTATION
Transfer any format Including Movie Film & Audio Tape. I also fix your broken tapes. Please call Jeff
Celebrating 35 Years in Business
www.northboromedia.com
150 Shrewsbury St. Boylston
508-393-9440
“Tape is not forever! �
CALL NOW!
jeffward@northboromedia.com
1-800-338-2578 www.fullerrv.com
Call Mary Ellen at 508-366-5500 x17 or email classified@communityadvocate.com
20 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, August 7, 2020
Visit Our Beautiful Showroom, or Call for a Free Consultation at Your Home!
508-762-9095 www.spotlightkitchens.com
★★★★★
Give your room a fresh look with the best lighting fixtures.
Kitchen & Bath Transform your kitchen with the best cabinetry, countertops and lighting! Best of
houzz
Best of
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Best of houzz 5 years in a row!
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houzz
86 SHREWSBURY STREET, WORCESTER
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2018