Community Advocate April 2, 2021

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Vol. 47 | No. 14 | April 2, 2021

Neary Elementary welcomes students back for in-person learning

Shrewsbury public schools react to recent tragedy with sympathy and support

PHOTO/DAKOTA ANTELMAN

The house on Shrewsbury’s Ladyslipper Dr. where police found a woman and her daughter dead last month sits behind a “children” sign.

By Melanie Petrucci Senior Community Reporter SHREWSBURY – The sudden deaths of a woman and her school-age daughter shocked Shrewsbury last month. Hitting close to home for some, school administrators and individual counselors quickly set to work acknowledging the tragic events and promising support for any individuals suddenly needing counseling. “On behalf of the school district, our deepest sympathies go out to the surviving husband/father and son/brother,” Schools Superintendent Joseph Sawyer wrote in a statement shared publicly. Deaths | 13

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Students head into classes, passing a special sign welcoming them back after months of remote and hybrid learning.

By Dakota Antelman, Managing Editor SOUTHBOROUGH – Students returning to full-time in-person learning for the first time in over a year at Southborough’s Neary School stepped off their busses to see smiling staff faces and signs cheering them on March 22 In a time of uncertainty, Neary Principal Kathleen Valenti said she was happy to have her students back under her roof. So, she wanted to show that joy by bringing colleagues in to set up decorations to get students excited about what could also be a stressful change of pace. “We’ve been working hard to get to this point and we are very In-person | 12

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2 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, April 2, 2021

COMMUNITY NEWS

Grafton Public Library project nears completion Construction and renovations continued at the Grafton Public Library, earlier this year.

By David Rosner Contributing Writer GRAFTON – Long running work to expand and modernize the Grafton Public Library is rapidly nearing completion this spring. With brick siding going up and interior work beginning, local officials are excited about everything from new space for community meetings and events, to automated machines that will help staff pre-sort collection materials within their new facility. Addition rebrands Grafton library Library Director Beth Gallaway began building community support for this project before 2016, eventually fully funding what was a $16.6 million renovation and expansion of her library.

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Through this, Gallaway is aiming to transform the library’s image from a warehouse of books to a community meeting place, consulting with the Grafton Historic District as well as the Massachusetts Historical Commission to ensure the new library pays homage to its predecessor without duplicating or detracting from it.

New construction comes after previous attempts Previous directors of the Grafton Public Library had successfully secured funding through a series of Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners grants. Those payouts would have helped renovate and expand the facility to meet community needs.

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Grant funding opens door to project progress Grafton officials got permission to apply for partial grant funding for this project back at the town’s October 2016 Town Meeting. Officials then submitted their application in January 2017. That summer, the Town received a $7.4 million award, leaving taxpayers to foot a $9.2 million bill to fully fund the new library. As of February 1, builders had spent $12.013 million to move

through 70 percent of library construction. Among other elements, crews had laid foundations, assembled steel framing, added walls, windows and roofing, and even begun assembling interior spaces. As this addition will sit alongside part of the original library structure, crews have also paid attention to necessary improvements to damaged historic slate roof shingles, masonry and limestone. Once open, the new library will offer a community space with room for up to 117 people. That space will have kitchen access, a presentation area and a baby grand piano. Students and adults will be able to utilize study rooms and design elements will allow the library to decrease the required staffing levels normally required for a building of this size. An “automated materials handler” will scan item barcodes and pre-sort materials into bins to aid organization efforts. Self-service computer signups, vending, print release, and self-checkout, along with low shelving and optimized sightlines will further free up library staff to help visitors with their often hidden and sometimes underused services.

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But after residents twice opted not to approve required matching town funding, both grants fell through. Seeking to do things differently this time Gallaway and her colleagues conducted a year’s worth of town surveys, focus groups and research to figure out the exact type of library the community needed. After this endeavor, they hired Drummey Rosane Anderson, Inc, an architectural firm well-versed in Massachusetts Public Library Construction Program grants, historic renovations, LEED buildings and public projects. According to Gallaway, Anderson Inc also generally understood her team’s collective vision for this effort.

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1. Wait till 1 AM, 2. Go to the vaxfinder.mass.gov web site. 3. Check the box “Show only sites with known availability” 4. See the result “No locations match this criteria” 5. Uncheck that box. 6. Scroll down the list until I see the first CVS pharmacy. 7. Click on that pharmacy link. 8. See the message that all appointments are booked in Massachusetts. 9. Start registration in another state 10. Switch to Massachusetts and low and behold, there are 100s of available appointments 11. Book the appointment at the closest CVS pharmacy. 12. Go back to vaxfinder.mass.gov web site. 13. Check the box “Show only sites with known availability” 14. See the result “No locations match this criteria” The Massachusetts vaccine distribution process is clearly still broken. People are going to get sick and maybe die because of this mess.

How can it be acceptable to anyone? Andrew Koenigsberg Westborough

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, April 2, 2021 • 3

A helping hand: Teacher helps coworkers get vaccinated

THE

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Amanda Cowgill has helped her coworkers at Gibbons Middle School book COVID-19 vaccine appointments.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF EMMA FURMANICK

By Laura Hayes Contributing Writer PHOTO/TAMI WHITE

WESTBOROUGH – The First United Methodist Church in Westborough is nearly finished with its “Time to Build” addition project. Delayed by COVID-19, this work gives the church new space for its programming while improving accessibility for people with mobility impairments. Drone photos this week show the church and its surrounding area.

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WESTBOROUGH - The day after Gov. Baker announced that school faculty and staff members were eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine, social studies teacher Brian Paulhus was having mixed feelings in his classroom at Westborough’s Gibbons Middle School. “I thought, ‘What wonderful news,’” he told the Community Advocate, last month. “But I was still trying to get an appointment for my mom who is 74 and can’t do it on her own.” With school starting at 8 a.m., Paulhus didn’t have time to help out Teacher | 6

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4 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, April 2, 2021

COMMUNITY NEWS

Westborough Selectmen adjust proposed poultry bylaw By Susan Gonsalves, Contributing Writer WESTBOROUGH – Selectmen briefly discussed banning roosters and instituting a fee for all poultry owners in Westborough, March 23. But they ultimately stepped back opting at their meeting to let voters weigh in on broader changes before fine tuning specific policies. The Board was once again reviewing a proposed bylaw set to appear on the May 15 Town Meeting warrant that stipulates the number of chickens, ducks and other poultry that residents can keep on lots of less than two acres. The proposed bylaw also sets perimeters for enclosures and enacts other measures with a goal of alleviating neighbors’ concerns about noise, odor and property encroachment. Residents voice concerns During an open forum at the start of the meeting, Warren Street resident David Silva

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spoke to a distinction that he said should be made between keeping chickens as pets versus in an agricultural capacity. Silva said loose chickens wandering around changes the characteristics of a residential neighborhood in a detrimental way. He spoke about chickens having no boundaries in terms of where they roam and “use the bathroom,” saying that they impact nine to eleven other nearby properties with their presence. He added that Westborough is a suburb of Boston and said he expected a residential setting to be just that when he bought his property. He said he did not anticipate living in an agricultural environment. Changes to proposed bylaw suggested Selectman Shelby Marshall questioned whether a ban on roosters should be included in the bylaw, calling them “lovely creatures that may need to find new homes that aren’t in Westborough.” Animal Control Officer/Inspector Melinda MacKendrick noted that when people buy

Houses sit nestled on hills behind Westborough High School. Many chicken owners in neighborhoods like this could see immediate impacts of a new proposed poultry bylaw. PHOTO BY/DAKOTA ANTELMAN)

chickens, they are unaware of which ones are male. Usually, the count is about one out of ten. She said that if noise becomes a problem for certain neighbors, she would talk to the owners and handle removal on a case-by-case basis. Keeping roosters in soundproof coops was one suggestion, though MacKendrick noted that, in general, she is not against people owning roosters as long as they are not nuisances. Selectman Sean Keogh said that he trusted that the animal control officer could address problems as they arose and felt a ban was too harsh. “I’d hate to eliminate these

poor guys because there are a few bad actors,” he said. “I thought you were going to say a few bad eggs,” quipped Selectmen Chairman Allen Edinberg. Marshall also brought up concerns about giving poultry owners 18 months to adhere to the bylaw’s stipulations. She suggested that the time period was “excessive and not acceptable.” Instead, she suggested that the deadline should be six or nine months to resolve issues about flock size and enclosure structures. Eventually, the animal control officer advised that a uniform 12-month deadline made more sense.

From there, Marshall did also suggest instituting a $25 annual fee to own chickens. She said the fee would, secondarily, help with data gathering. MacKendrick pointed out that Westborough has more than 900 chickens and questioned who would collect the fees and keep track of who paid. The board decided not to have a fee. Selectman Ian Johnson said that it is better to get a bylaw adopted and in place and fine tune it later, rather than trying to achieve “perfection.” Johnson said that he would rely on Animal Control Officer MacKendrick to use her expertise in handling problems some neighbors are having. The next step, Board members said, is for Town Manager Kristi Williams to make minor adjustments discussed and forward the latest poultry bylaw document to town counsel for review. The matter will be taken up again when selectmen vote to approve the Town Meeting warrant, next month.

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By Melanie Petrucci Senior Community Reporter SHREWSBURY – The Board of Selectmen unanimously voted, March 26, to ask voters to approve a $9.5 million dollar Proposition 2 1/2 operational override. This came after Selectmen briefly hesitated to move forward on this long-discussed is-

sue at their regularly scheduled Board meeting, March 23. The ballot question addresses an almost $6 million-dollar structural budget deficit for Shrewsbury. Town seeks voter approval for tax increase Proposition 2 1/2 limits the amount of tax levy a municipality can increase from year to year.

The limit is 2.5 percent, which gets automatically assessed unless voters pass an override. If successful, this override will reset the tax levy. Selectmen were close to passing the override March 23. But they delayed their vote due to the lack of clarity about what the town will receive from the American Rescue Plan federal stimulus package.

“We don’t know specifically the amount that is going to be allocated to the town of Shrewsbury,” remarked Town Manager Kevin Mizikar, March 23. Among the unknown details was the question what the rules of would be regarding uses for that money. Further, whatever that final amount Shrewsbury does receive will split between

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, April 2, 2021 • 5

COMMUNITY NEWS

Developer hits obstacles in effort to build subdivision near Algonquin High School By Liz Nolan Contributing Writer

COURTESY OF THE TOWN OF NORTHBOROUGH

NORTHBOROUGH - A developer is continuing its effort to build a four-lot subdivision near Algonquin Regional High School, seeking permits from the Northborough Planning Board, most recently at a March 16 meeting. The Burlington-based Gutierrez Company has been through this process before. The Planning Board denied their previous application to build a 150,000-square foot high bay distribution center abutting Stirrup Brook back in October. The company has since appealed that decision and is awaiting litigation.

Permitting documents show the approximate location of a proposed subdivision near Algonquin High School.

New proposal raises new concerns Separate from that previously denied project, this new

proposal has its own red flags for the Planning Board. The primary issue, Board members say, is that the appli-

Shrewsbury Board green lights $9.5 million Prop. 2 ½ operational override Override | from page 4

fiscal year (FY) 2021 and FY 2022. Mizikar estimated that the potential funds might be in the neighborhood of $11.2 million dollars. But he still could not confirm specifics, March 26, saying Gov. Charlie Baker had recently announced final information could take two additional weeks to trickle out. When the Board convened, March 26, Mizikar reviewed FY

2022 budget details and confirmed that, with an override, the average family tax bill would increase by $704.34. As taxes increase, town officials are immediately weighing in on the task now at hand for voters. “We are as lean as we can be and I am very fearful of what the impact is going to be on the service levels throughout the town if this doesn’t pass,” Selectman Maurice DePalo said.

“This will define who we are and it’s up to us as leaders to recommend who we are as a community,” Selectmen John Samia added. “But it’s also important for our community to understand this will set forward where we go.” The municipal election takes place on May 4. To view the March 26 meeting of the Board of Selectmen, visit https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=bdq4Oc6YkDc.

Area hockey hubs host coordinated food drive A young hockey player waves to Trax, the mascot of the Worcester Railers hockey team.

By Dakota Antelman Managing Editor REGION – The local youth hockey community banded together, last month, to fight a familiar but pressing problem worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic – hunger. Organized by the Worcester Railers hockey team, the Hockey Checks Hunger program placed

food drop boxes at local arenas like the New England Sports Center in Marlborough and Northstar Ice Sports in Westborough. “We were more than happy to be part of it,” Northstar Director of Hockey Steve Tepper told the Community Advocate in a recent conversation about the food drive. Collecting donations starting

in mid-March, boxes had filled up by the time staff from the Railers made rounds, March 25, to transport goods to local food pantries. At Northstar, those staff members happily stuffed bags of donations into a team truck and a separate SUV both already tightly packed with the fruits of previous pickups. Inside, a youth hockey team held tryouts. The ice sports industry has been particularly hamstrung by COVID-19 safety restrictions over the last year. Discussing that, Tepper specifically said he wished he could have done even more to help this latest community service effort. The message remains, though, he said. And he’s proud of that. “It’s been a challenging year for everyone involved, not just folks that play ice sports,” he told the Community Advocate.

Developer’s attorney seeks conditional permit approval Responding to these concerns, Gutierrez Company Attorney Mark Donahue said March 16, that his client will produce new documentation prior to construction of its subdivision. With that in mind, Donahue suggested that the Board approve this application contingent on the Gutierrez Company getting and documenting MWRA approval to build. The Planning Board, though, said it is unable to properly discern the true impact of the new plan due to inconsistencies in the Gutierrez Company’s impact statement. Some reports provided were based on that previous warehouse proposal now pending litigation. “We need to be able to assess impact and it is hard to do with the current analysis,” said Martinek. Further discussion will continue on May 4.

cant has failed to prove ownership of all the land included in its new plans. This is a requirement outlined in the Board’s rules and regulations. But part of the proposed plan would have builders working over the Wachusett Aqueduct, which the Commonwealth of Massachusetts owns, according to the Worcester Registry of Deeds. Talking March 16, the majority of Planning Board members were not willing to waive that ownership requirement. “We have no proof that the Gutierrez Company has the full authority to undertake any and all of the necessary actions and improvements shown on the proposed subdivision plan,” Kerri Martinek said. The Massachusetts Water and Resources Authority, which manages the aqueduct, issues “8m permits” to allow “other entities to build, construct, excavate or cross” MWRA land. The applicant does not have such a permit, though.

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A helping hand: Teacher helps coworkers get vaccinated Teacher | from page 3

and look for an appointment. That’s when special education and math teacher Amanda Cowgill offered to help. Cowgill was able to help secure vaccine appointments for both Paulhus’ mother and Paulhus himself. “Amanda has been awesome helping so many teachers get their appointments,” Paulhus said. Cowgill specifically estimated that she had helped about 30 coworkers as of mid-March. “I just want to do what I can to help,” Cowgill said. “I know how important the vaccine is to a lot of people… If there was something little that I could do to help somebody else and strengthen my school community and my town, I’m going to jump on that opportunity.” Stepping up as vaccine systems lag When COVID-19 vaccine appointments opened up, some Westborough Schools staff had difficulty scheduling appointments. They would log on only to find the state’s website was down or wasn’t working. “As I started to hear all these little rumors going around, a lot of the teachers were saying, ‘Well, Amanda is good with computers.’” Cowgill recalled. Cowgill said she wanted to help her coworkers get COVID vaccines in part because either they or their family members had health concerns. She also wanted to help lay the groundwork to reopen Gibbons for fulltime in-person learning. “I know a lot of kids are struggling with that social-emotional learning right now, and not being in the building,” she said.

“So, if there was anything I could do to help that, I was going to do whatever I could to make it happen.” Cowgill saw vaccines as a way to end the pandemic and its lockdowns more quickly. So, she began coming to school early or staying late, bouncing between classrooms to see if anyone needed help scheduling appointments. Understanding a sprawling vaccine operation Cowgill began to learn tricks of the trade. When she got her vaccine, for example, she used the state’s official website to book her appointment at CVS. Now, she goes directly to CVS’ website to help co-workers book appointments. Cowgill has also had success booking appointments early in the morning. She said she will come to school at about 6 a.m. and work with fellow teachers on multiple devices to try to select a slot “Be quick before the appointment is no longer available,” she said of her thinking. “Try other zip codes or cities, if you’re willing to travel. Be open to different time frames.” As the national vaccine rollout continues, teachers are slowly getting vaccinated at a higher rate. With immunizations proliferating among her colleagues, Cowgill still has advice, though, for the general public, which will likely soon rush to appointment portals en masse as Massachusetts is set to broaden its eligibility this month. “Be persistent. Don’t give up,” Cowgill said.

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, April 2, 2021 • 7

COMMUNITY NEWS

Mass Save energy efficiency program a ‘win-win’ for town and residents WESTBOROUGH – Officials are turning to the public after winning a unique opportunity. They can raise up to $15,000 in grant money from this. But, to make that happen, they need Westborough residents to volunteer their own homes for free energy efficiency assessments through what is called the Mass Save, Municipal Partnership Program. Officials tout ‘win-win’ situation To get its money, Westborough must encourage residents to complete a no-cost Home Energy Assessment performed by an Energy Specialist. Residents can then implement weatherization and efficiency measures recommended for their property. “This is a win-win for the entire community,” Assistant Town Manager Kim Foster wrote in a recent press release. Mass Save partners with Westborough Mass Save programs help utility customers get access to home efficiency upgrades. After volunteering for an audit, participants receive financial incentives and subsidies to help defray the cost to implement recommended efficiency measures. At a homeowner’s request, an Energy Specialist can also identify approved contractors and equipment suppliers to complete upgrades. “We’re excited to be one of a handful of Massachusetts communities selected for this program in 2021,” Foster said, recently. Program focuses on improving access to efficiency measures Within this push for increased participation in Mass Save as a whole, the Municipal Partnership aims, in part, to increase participation among renters, seniors, moderate income homeowners, and nonEnglish speakers. “While we encourage all residents to take advantage of the Mass Save offers, our outreach campaign in Westborough will focus especially on segments of our community who have not historically participated in these energy efficiency programs,” Foster said. She elaborated, saying “We have engaged existing community partners like the Westbor-

ough Senior Center and Youth & Family Services to get the message out to their constituents and to help us address any obstacles that inhibit people

from taking advantage of these resources.” Lower income residents are eligible for financial assistance. They can access Energy Star rated appliances and water heaters, as well as no cost building weatherization, Foster notes. Foster then emphasized that residents don’t have to own their home to participate.

Assessment process remains remote amid COVID-19 crisis Assessments are also performed remotely so residents don’t have to be concerned about COVID-19 safety. “The Home Energy Assessment has been streamlined,” Foster said. When an Energy Specialist examines a home, they

may recommend anything from water saving items, to insulation improvements, to appliance replacements, to upgrades for existing heating and cooling systems. “There are still many ways that renters can reduce their monthly utility bills by implementing the energy efficiency measures recommended from Mass Save | 11

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8 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, April 2, 2021

COMMUNITY NEWS

Northborough BOS approve memorandum of understanding for King Street and SW Cutoff intersection alteration King Street sits bookended by empty space parallel to Southwest Cutoff in Northborough.

By Liz Nolan Contributing Writer NORTHBOROUGH – An effort to build an assisted living facility at 39-43 King Street has been in the works for three years. On March 22, the Board of Selectmen (BOS) approved the next step in what has been a long process for the developer, ZHS Trust.

Project moves forward King Street plans call for a new access driveway to be built across private property at 38 King Street, which ZHS Trust also owns. Per the memorandum of understanding, the plan also shows “one-way access from Route 20 to King Street, with access from King Street to Route 20 via the driveway over 38 King Street.”

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ZHS Trust will then need to submit a request to the BOS to alter the layout of King Street to include those new access points

as part of King Street. That request would need to go to vote at a future town meeting. The BOS approval of the

He said he is anxious to take the next step as significant time has been spent on this project. The developer’s attorney Spencer Holland said the memorandum of understanding incorporates comments and requests received in the process, as well as additional project components not in earlier drafts. “The project will create significant safety benefits to the town at no cost to the town,” said Holland. “This… provides a very clear roadmap of the next steps to seeing this through to fruition.”

Amid budget process, Westborough Town Manager awaits details on state funds By Susan Gonsalves Contributing Writer WESTBOROUGH – Town Manager Kristi Williams highlighted possible changes to the Town Meeting warrant during Westborough’s Board of Selectmen’s meeting, March 23. Uncertainty remains regarding state, local budgets Williams emphasized that she is still waiting for information about Gov. Charlie Baker’s next state budget as decisions on issues like state aid to municipalities will reshape the final tax impact on local residents. “We’re still waiting and we want to be clear and conservative about the numbers we’re putting out,” Williams told selectmen. Currently, Westborough is looking at a budget of $123,811,339, a 4.81 percent increase over last year. The town is in line to potentially receive $2.9 million in Chapter 70 funds from the

Town officials closely eye federal aid money Another financial variable exists regarding federal COVID-19 “rescue plan” money. Williams mentioned the town is in line to Westborough Town Hall stands over West Main receive $5.6 million Street. Inside, town officials are still ironing out in funds that can their next municipal budget. be used through 2024. According state. However, the ultimate to Williams, though, no inforfigure will depend on action mation has been forthcoming by the House Ways and Means about where those funds can be Committee within the State utilized beyond replacement for Legislature. “revenue loss” tied to last year’s Waiting for clarity, Westborhard coronavirus lockdowns ough’s financial team has set and their impact on the local up a plan that shows a singleeconomy. family home would see a tax Williams is hoping to have increase of $515 if the town uses more details at a future meeting. $770,000 of its free cash to offset the impact of a massive drop-off Selectmen talk town seal in state aid, Williams explained. In other business about If the Chapter 70 funds come the warrant, Selectman Sean in at that anticipated level of Keogh asked if there would be $2.9 million and that is factored further public hearings about in, though a single-family home either the proposed town seal would experience an increase change or efforts to switch the of $354 FILE PHOTO/DAKOTA ANTELMAN

Project history takes twists and turns The Zoning Board of Appeals granted a Site Plan Special Permit on March 27, 2018. That permit term has been extended and is still valid. An improved access plan from Southwest Cutoff (Route 20) to the proposed facility was part of the permit conditions. In addition, plan approval was needed by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation. Department of Public Works Director Scott Charpentier said it’s been a long process at the state and local levels, so the final layout will meet the needs of the community. Now, a memorandum of understanding, approved by the BOS as submitted by ZHS Trust on March 22, outlines the responsibilities, process and timeline necessary for the access improvements.

PHOTO/DAKOTA ANTELMAN

memorandum of understanding serves as the town’s commitment to the developer that it will support the new property layout if it is built in accordance with the requirements outlined. “[This] gives the developer the most assurance we can that we will go to town meeting… and present [this project] for approval at that time,” Town Engineer Fred Litchfield said, March 22. ZHS Trust Trustee Rashid Sheik was appreciative of the time and hard work of everyone involved in the process so far.

name of the Board of Selectmen to “Select Board.” “With the town seal, I know there are some strong thoughts on that,” Keogh said. Other members noted that Town Meeting would decide whether or not to create a committee to explore a new town seal. At that time, the community would engage in “a larger public process,” Selectman Shelby Marshall said. That moderator-appointed committee would ultimately then return to Town Meeting for a vote. The Board name change, meanwhile, focuses more on “semantics,” and does not change the board’s “function, role or any aspect of the town,” said Board Chair Allen Edinberg. Recently, a number of towns across the state, including nearby Hudson, have opted to change the names of their Boards of Selectmen to the more gender inclusive title of Select Board.

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, April 2, 2021 • 9

COMMUNITY NEWS

Shrewsbury man leaves behind the keyboard for the kiln, cutter and glass By Peg Lopata Contributing writer REGION - After a successful forty-year career in computer programming, John Hegarty has exchanged his keyboard for a glass cutter, grinder, soldering iron and a kiln. These are different tools than he had been used to as Hegarty now works as a glass artist. But this line of work isn’t entirely new as Hegarty was already interested in various crafts for over four decades, before making this switch. Glassworks offer new beginning A love for glasswork began for Hegarty when he took a stained-glass class at Assabet Valley Technical High School in

for the fact that it maintains its color even at the very high temperatures created inside a kiln.

John Hegarty

Marlborough. He was inspired and now has been working with glass for forty-three years. “Seeing something that can be displayed or worn as jewelry from bits of glass inspires me to do this craft,” he recently told the Community Advocate.

A three-dimensional Moravian Star made with wispy white stained glass represents one of Hegarty’s commonly made products.

Hegarty makes both stained glass and fused glass creations. Specifically, he designs and creates unique glass jewelry including earrings, pendants, pins, bracelets, rings and more,

Westborough woman continues to hold blood drives in honor of daughter Submitted by Ilyse Levine-Kanji WESTBOROUGH - Pauline Sciarappa of Westborough knows the pricelessness of donating blood. As blood banks openly worry about a drop off in donations during the COVID-19 pandemic, Scirappa is stepping up to help. Sciarappa’s daughter, Corinne, received over 200 units of donated blood throughout her more than four-year battle with alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma. Though Corinne passed away in June 2019 at the age of 18, Sciarappa has steadfastly continued her work to help those in need and to honor Corinne’s life by organizing mobile donation events through

Pauline Sciarappa and her family, including her daughter Corrine, pose for a portrait.

the Boston Children’s Hospital Blood Donor Center and Westborough’s Tatnuck Booksellers. The Westborough community has responded enthusiastically by continuing to roll up its sleeves to give blood. For Cyndi MacKinlay, who handles mobile donation operations across the region as Boston Children’s “Bloodmo-

bile Coordinator,” this kind of dedication from Sciarappa and her community is welcome and appreciated. “The pandemic has changed and stopped so many things in our lives,” MacKinlay said, recently. “What hasn’t changed is the constant need for blood.” She elaborated, saying “Collecting enough whole blood to meet our patients’ needs has been made exceedingly more difficult by the pandemic. We are enormously grateful to families, like the Sciarappas, who not only understand the importance of donating blood, but also hold blood drives in their communities.” Upcoming drives take place on April 1 and May 20 outside Tatnuck Booksellers.

One and one-eighth inch pewter pendant showcases a one-halfinch button made of Hegarty’s favored dichroic glass.

using a kiln that fuses glass objects at 1,800 degrees. This process utilizes “dichocic glass.” Ever interested in technology, Hegarty explained, this is a material created in a vacuum chamber by atomizing a metal with a laser. NASA first developed this high-tech process to make glass for use on space capsules and space suits. Now, though, dichroic glass is also conducive for making jewelry

Hegarty lives life of the craftsperson and then some Whenever possible, Hegarty shows his works at various craft fairs. Outside of that, he was a working member of the local Craftworks cooperative in Northborough for over thirtyeight years. His creations can still be seen there. Now living in Shrewsbury, John and his wife Judy previously lived in Westborough for thirty-six years. They have two daughters, 53 and 41 and three grandchildren, boys nineteen and sixteen-year old twins. “We have a low-maintenance condo [now] that’s convenient to everything,” Hegarty said. He continues to create. Visit John Hegarty’s website… www.outofhand.shop or his Facebook page… https:// www.facebook.com/FusedDichroic.

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10 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, April 2, 2021

COMMUNITY NEWS

No opposition at public hearing for Marlborough’s last marijuana dispensary permit By Vicki Greene Contributing Writer MARLBOROUGH - The special permit process is moving forward for a Massachusetts couple seeking to build a recreational marijuana dispensary at 329 Boston Post Road West in the existing RK Plaza. Though there was no public comment at the City Council’s March 22 public hearing, several councilors had questions regarding job creation, traffic flow, delivery trucks and security at the proposed dispensary, known as Calverde Naturals. Co-founders Kelly and Steve Tomasello recently shared their story with the Community Advocate. Speaking with City Councilors March 22, they said they plan to hold several local job fairs and hire for approximately 20 positions as they ramp up operations. Calverde has previously held a community meeting.

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A rendering shows the proposed Calverde Naturals dispensary on Route 20 West

It has also signed a community host agreement that will send three percent of annual revenue back to the city. In addition, it has had an informal meeting with Marlborough’s Site Plan Review Committee and received a provisional license from the state’s Cannabis Control Commission. After this most recent public hearing with the City Council, Calverde’s permit request moves to the Council’s Urban Affairs Committee, which will review details the city requires

for the permit. Depending upon the pace of the approval process, Kelly and Steve Tomasello say they would like to start construction in the third quarter of 2021, with a potential opening in early 2022. Calverde Naturals would be the fourth and final available marijuana dispensary special permit in Marlborough. Steve Tomasello said he expects Calverde to generate $7 million in revenue after the first year of operations.

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MARLBOROUGH – With warmer weather rolling in, Marlborough resident Denise Keane recently captured photos of several bunches of crocuses poking through the soil in her yard. Keane is a paraeducator at Whitcomb Middle School. As her school gets set to welcome students back for full-time in-person learning per a state mandate, late this month, the new season and its flowers are a welcome sight.

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, April 2, 2021 • 11

COMMUNITY NEWS

Outside groups support Grafton Food Bank in pandemic-era effort to help community By David Rosner Contributing Writer

PHOTO/COURTESY OF JESSICA MELO

GRAFTON – Outreach and support from a number of local farms and organizations has helped the Grafton Food Bank care for area residents through the tough times of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Community Harvest Project, a separate non-profit that grows food only to give back their produce to various organizations, has honored a pre-pandemic commitment to donate to the Food Bank. Ad-

ditionally, especially last summer, Grafton based Houlden Farm donated boxes of similar high-quality food. The Grafton Public Schools also got involved, offering boxes of produce to the Food Bank and helping coordinate pickup times during the pandemic’s early days. Those Community Harvest Project donations came in the form of pre-bagged, fresh produce. The Food Bank, at one point, distributed those goods twice per month to its clients via drive up services.

A Grafton community member volunteers for the Grafton Food Bank

Grafton Food Bank serves community The Grafton Food Bank as an organization has been aiding Grafton residents for more than twenty-five years. Over those years, Food Bank leaders say they’ve grown their offerings to meet the increased needs of those experiencing food insecurity. They add that they’ve done so thanks to donations of time and money from benefactors and volunteers in the community. Ninety-five percent of the monetary donations to the Food

Marlborough Democratic Committee hosts food drive at Kane School By Dakota Antelman Managing Editor

PHOTO/CHERYL ARSENAULT

MARLBOROUGH – Members of the Marlborough Democratic City Committee gathered at the Kane School, in town, March 27, for a food drive collection to benefit the Marlborough Community Cupboard. The event ran from 10 a.m. to 2.p.m. and marked the latest in a line of charity efforts to help those battling food insecurity amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Though the problem continues, the Marlborough Community Cupboard, in particular, has received an outpouring of support from groups like the Democratic City Committee, private companies like the Worcester Railers hockey team, and even state legislators like Sen. Jamie Eldridge. This was the Democratic

Bank’s non-profit organization go to the Food Bank itself, with the remaining five percent funding additional necessary food purchases and other operational costs. All donated food, meanwhile, goes to the Food Bank. Before COVID-19, the Food Bank operated out of Grafton’s Municipal Center building. Usual protocol allowed Grafton residents to visit once per month, either on the second Tuesday or the fourth Thursday of the month. With an allotment dependent on family size, Grafton residents shop the Food Bank’s grocery-store-style set up. Adapting to COVID-19 through the present day Standard operating procedures had to change as Grafton and the world shuddered under the weight of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Municipal Center, for one, remained closed as of early March, 2021, prompting the Food Bank to get creative with its services.

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“As anyone can imagine, trying to operate the Grafton Food Bank out of the Municipal Center during its extended closure has been incredibly challenging,” Food Bank President Jessica Melo told the Community Advocate, earlier this year. “Our Board has worked tirelessly to modify our traditional model and to pivot as needed to ensure that we are still able to meet the needs of families facing food insecurity in Grafton.” Facing that need especially as it even grows with the surge in unemployment brought on by pandemic, the Food Bank has begun mailing monthly grocery store gift cards to clients while maintaining “a community resource list so [clients] know what they have access to” during the pandemic, according to Melo. The GFB has been taking this approach from April 2020 through the present day. Learn more about the Grafton Food Bank… https://www. graftonfoodbank.org

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Marlborough Democratic City Committee Events Co-Chairs Teria Ellis and Pamala McNair hold a sign advertising their food drive.

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City Committee’s second food drive of the year. Volunteers delivered goods gathered to the Community Cupboard on March 30.

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Director Alma DeManche said recently. Getting her home inspected before this new grant program, DeManche said her energy specialist replaced the light bulbs in her house for free. From there, she received a number of small appliances and an email offer from National Grid a few months later. “It’s a very generous program,” she said. For more information and to request a Home Energy Assessment, visit MassSave.com.

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12 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, April 2, 2021

COMMUNITY SCHOOLS Northborough Diversity and Inclusion Committee sets priorities By Liz Nolan Contributing Writer

tee useful insights to help to determine focus in the future.

NORTHBOROUGH -The Northborough Diversity and Inclusion Committee met on March 18 to continue to formulate the direction it will take, going forward. Formed in August of last year after a summer of protests and outrage over racism across the country, the Committee has been meeting and working through this winter.

Chair talks criticism shared in survey Among those insights, Chair Timothy Kaelin said, were a handful of negative comments. Those specifically questioned why Kaelin, a white male, is the Committee Chair. “The work of the Committee is much more important to me than sitting as Chair,” he said in response, March 18. “It’s unfair to put the burden of the work on the people who have been impacted by our history.” Committee members, in turn, responded in support of Kaelin, saying that his different perspective is important. “The strength of our Committee is our diversity,” said Committee member Diedra Wrighting. Gathering information from other municipalities will assist the Committee as they compile

Resident survey closes on March 29 The Committee launched a survey for residents last month to solicit feedback on how they feel the town is doing with diversity, inclusion and equity. The survey also sought input on where improvements could be made. As of March 18, the Committee had received 691 responses. Already, members say that data collected will give the Commit-

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recommendations to present to the Board of Selectmen at a future date, members say. That process can expand the range of options for Northborough to consider. Most recently, though, talk has centered on reforms of policies regarding training, education and recruitment. Northborough may also review hiring practices, community policies, community engagement, housing equity and Americans with Disabilities Act accessibility. Collaborating with the Northborough and Southborough Public Schools’ Coalition for Equity will further be an important piece of that education objective. Community listening sessions and focus groups, meanwhile, will make up large portions of the Committee’s public outreach efforts. The Committee will generally continue to have guests at their upcoming meetings.

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Neary Elementary welcomes students back for in-person learning In-person | from page 1

excited to have them all back,” she wrote in an email to the Community Advocate, the night before Neary’s reopening. The state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) had announced last month its plans to push schools to bring all students back for full-time in-person learning before the end of the spring. That mandate soon grew proverbial teeth as DESE warned that it would no longer support still commonplace hybrid learning models. School districts that delayed

a transition out of such formats without permission, new guidelines said, could face cuts in budget aid. As some larger districts have requested those delay permissions, in Southborough, part of the joint Northborough/ Southborough school district, the Neary Elementary School is already back in something resembling normal session. Desks sit spaced apart. Everyone is wearing masks. And mass gathering elements of the daily schedule, like lunchtime, look different. But, now, classrooms are busy again.

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, April 2, 2021 • 13

COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

Shrewsbury public schools react to recent tragedy with sympathy and support Shrewsbury | from page 1

Deaths shock Shrewsbury, prompt ‘crisis team’ response A 49-year-old Shrewsbury woman and her 12-year-old daughter were found dead, March 19, within their family home at 18 Ladyslipper Dr. While the cause of death is still under investigation, the identity of the woman has been revealed to be Jihyun Lee. The daughter’s identity is still un-

known. But the two are survived by Lee’s husband and son. Sawyer confirmed with that statement that the daughter was not a student in the Shrewsbury Public Schools. Her brother, however, attends Shrewsbury High School (SHS). School officials emphasized, in the days following March 19, that crisis teams were in place at both the high school and Sherwood Middle School to provide support to

any school community members needing it. “I write to you today with a heavy heart as I know we are all deeply saddened by the tragic event that occurred on Friday,” Sherwood Principal Jonathon Kelly wrote in his own email statement to Sherwood families. “I know that as a community we will rise up and support each other through this difficult time.” His sentiments were echoed

by SHS principal Todd Bazydlo. “While we are all saddened by this news, I know we will support each other through this deeply challenging event,” he wrote.

ence, March 19 and confirming the name of the 49-year-old mother found dead, Early had since stayed relatively silent on the topic of this investigation as of March 27.

Investigation into sudden fatalities continues Worcester County District Attorney Joseph Early remains in charge of the investigation into these Shrewsbury deaths. After holding a press confer-

Administrators discuss ongoing mental health crisis With questions still abounding at Shrewsbury schools, Sawyer emphasized a broader call for individuals to reach out when battling mental illnesses or emotionally difficult times. “We know that there are many youth and family members in our community struggling with mental health and well-being issues that have been exacerbated by the pandemic,” Sawyer remarked. “If you or your child needs assistance…Please reach out for help if you need it.” If you or someone you know is battling a mental health crisis, see the Shrewsbury Public Schools Suicide Awareness Information page for resources… https://schools.shrewsburyma. gov/district/suicide-awareness.

Shrewsbury principal frustrated with officials after school bus crash By Melanie Petrucci, Senior Community Reporter PHOTOS COURTESY/SHREWSBURY FIRE DEPARTMENT

SHREWSBURY – The principal of Shrewsbury’s Al Hamra Academy says she is frustrated with ongoing traffic issues on Route 20 after a school bus crash sent seven of her students to the hospital, March 23. That school bus was carrying 10 students when it collided with a tractor trailer truck early on March 23 at the intersection of 1 Avalon Way and Route 20. Principal Noor Ali had just arrived at school when she noticed a backup of traffic on Rte. 20. She had a gut feeling, telling the Community Advocate that she immediately thought, “Please don’t let it be someone from the school…” This isn’t the first-time students from Al-Hamra have been involved in an accident on this stretch of Route 20. On May 23, 2019, a SUV driven by an alumnus of the school made a left turn from South Street onto the highway only to then collide with another vehicle. The SUV rolled

A school bus sits with a crumpled front end after colliding with a semi-truck, March 24.

multiple times with four AlHamra students inside. Particularly following that incident, Ali has aggressively and passionately advocated for something to be done to make the corridor safer, especially near her school. She noted that Al-Hamra officials and students alike have petitioned and written to state legislators and officers, who administer Route 20, to do something. Al-Hamra has been told it can’t put up special school traffic signage, because Rte. 20

is part of the interstate highway system, though. And, although the speed limit has been reduced, people are still speeding. “I can’t tell you how frustrated I am,” Ali said following this latest incident. “It feels like it has gone unheard.” Seven of the 10 children and the bus driver behind the wheel, March 23, sustained minor injuries in their crash. They received treatment at

UMASS Medical Center in Worcester. Doctor’s all quickly discharged students while the driver remained in the hospital for a longer period of time with what Ali said she believed was an injured shoulder. The cause of the crash is currently under investigation. The Community Advocate has reached out to state legislators representing Shrewsbury for comment.

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14 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, April 2, 2021

COMMUNITY BUSINESS

Highland Wine and Spirits

Berlin store offers curated selection, concierge level of service

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Barbara Allen Contributing Writer BERLIN - Highland Wine and Spirits is a BIG store. But make no mistake--what you will find here is not the impersonal, warehouse-style atmosphere found in some large outlet liquor stores. Despite its size, Highland Wine and Spirits has worked hard to maintain a neighborhood liquor store feel and a concierge level of service for its customers. Customer service with old-school courtesy “We are a big store,” acknowledged General Manager Bob Donohue. “But we’re a family run store [as well]. We want to carry your case to the car, engage you when you come in. There’s a lot of relationship building.” This “old-school courtesy” is what brings Highland’s customers in, he noted. While Highland will match the price of an identical product found elsewhere for less money, Donohue further emphasized that the draw of his store does not just come from charging deeply discounted prices, as some outlet stores do. “We’re not going to worry about the competition,” said Donohue. “What differentiates us is a sincere, articulate, and well-trained level of service. If you don’t like what you bought, we’ll replace it, no problem.”

Bob Donohue General Manager cated, but frugal.” In addition to the 1400 wines, the store offers artisan spirits produced by locals, as well as “too many beers to count,” from commercial and craft brewers.

Highland Wine and Spirits General Manager Bob Donohue (left) and Wine Manager Missa Capozzo (right) stand inside their store.

Highland stocks 1400 Wines With 1400 wines lining the shelves at Highland Wine and Spirits, customers will find, Donohue asserted, the deepest, most well-thought-out curated wine selection. Having such a stock gives Highland the ability to present a more interesting collection of wines. “People love variety,” noted Donohue. “They love to see things that are curated.” He pointed out that the store has at least fifty wines from Washington state and Oregon, whose quality and taste rival California wines, but at a lower price.

From the “Average Joe” to the wine connoisseur, to the 21-year-old trying a red wine for the first time, Donohue reiterated, “the balance is there.” “There’s something for everyone here,” he said. Highland offers organic wine Further within that selection, Highland offers the deepest collection of reasonably priced organic wines anywhere in the state, according to Donohue. Indeed, he said, price is a crucial consideration. “The organic wine customer doesn’t want to spend more than $14 for a bottle,” he observed. “They are smart, edu-

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What’s Popular Brands like Josh and Meiomi continue to be red wine customer favorites. But another brand that has been gaining popularity recently is the Boston-based 90+ Cellars, which Donohue referred to as a “Saturday night wine with a Tuesday night price.” For white wines, Donohue looks for “cool stuff.” The Austrian Grüner Veltliner fit the bill. “It has become what the New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc had become,” he explained. All these white wine sensibilities have been influenced by cooks like Julia Child, who once cautioned, when pairing wine with food, “Worry about what you are cooking.” Donohue elaborated with his perspective. “With a white wine, you’ll want almost a neutral taste, something that accents the food

but doesn’t get in the way of its taste,” he said. Pandemic commands focus on customer safety The current pandemic has changed how Highland Wine and Spirits does business, with customer safety being the top priority, especially now. Gone are the days of customer browsing. Today’s customer, noted Donohue, wants to be “in and out.” So, his staff has grouped best-selling products together for convenience. Customers and staff alike observe rigorously maintained social distancing requirements, as the store itself provides masks to anyone who arrives without one. Hand sanitizer is everywhere. For those who prefer not to enter the store, curbside pick-up is an option. “We take [safety] very seriously,” Donohue asserted. “We follow every guideline we get.” Highland Wine and Spirits is located at 22 Highland Common East, Berlin. Phone: 978-5679700.

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, April 2, 2021 • 15

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16 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, April 2, 2021

COMMUNITY SPORTS

SHS’ Mario Marchisio In Shrewsbury, football coach remembered as no-frills 1960s trailblazer

NICK ABRAMO ON SPORTS SHREWSBURY - They don’t make ‘em like Mario Marchisio anymore. And in this day and age of political correctness, his style wouldn’t be welcome by many anyway. Marchisio, who coached the Shrewsbury High School football team for 21 years, was a no-frills, my-way-or-thehighway kind of guy. He was a square-jawed, blue-collar, Italian firebrand, and those who played for him say he was both loved by many for his tough love and also disliked by others for his intense ways. According to Dutch Holland, who played for Marchisio in early 1960s and later served as his assistant before moving on to become a head coach at three nearby schools, Marchisio came to Shrewsbury in 1960 in what amounted to a trade of physical education teachers. Wanted by the Colonials for his football background, he left West Boylston, which, in turn, got a teacher with a gymnastics background.

After a few lean years, Marchisio had Shrewsbury humming. His teams were always known for toughness and discipline. But he was also fortunate to have a string of some of the best running backs around. “He was all football,” Holland said about Marchisio, who played football, hockey and baseball for Leominster and went on to play football and hockey for the University of Illinois. “He had super talented backs and linemen that carried him for years. He was also tremendously knowledgeable on how to run the single wing offense. Holland went on, saying “He’d be standing on the sideline on Turkey Day against Milford saying, ‘They’re going to run this trap or that sweep. They always do that on this part of the field and with this down and distance.’…He was always right. It was amazing. Another Shrewsbury player from the early ‘60s, running back Maurice Bisceglia, recalls Marchisio as being as oldschool as they come. “He taught us discipline, big-time,” said Bisceglia, who got to know Marchisio better after his playing days. “If things didn’t go right, we’d run it again and again until it was right. A lot of guys didn’t like him and I know why. He told the truth and a lot of people don’t like to hear the truth. No

Mario Marchisio during his football coaching career.

matter how good you were, if you screwed up, you paid the price.” One time, according to Bisceglia, Marchisio kicked his fullback off the team for a week for smoking a cigarette. “Late in the game [that week], we had the ball on the goal line and couldn’t score and lost 6-0,” Bisceglia said. “If we had the fullback, we would have won. Bisceglia added, “If Mario was coaching today, he’d be in jail.” Marchisio was reportedly famous for hitting people over the helmet with his clipboard. On one other occasion, meanwhile, a quarterback threw a pass. That was against

“Some said Mario couldn’t coach,” he said. “But the reason they thought he couldn’t coach was they couldn’t play.” Marchisio, a World War II veteran and member of the Massachusetts Football Coaches Hall of Fame who died in 2015, rang up league titles. But one of his biggest moments came when he guided the Colonials to the 1972 Central-WestMario Marchisio on the sidelines with player ern Mass. Division 2 SuVinny DeFalco, circa 1977. per Bowl at Springfield College, where the team lost 10-7 to East Longmeadow. Marchisio’s rules. Worcester Marchisio’s love of football Trade, Shrewsbury’s opponent shined through, nonetheless, that day, intercepted the throw in one 1996 quote about that and ran it back for a touchSuper Bowl defeat to the Bosdown to beat the Colonials ton Globe. 13-12. “We lost with eight seconds “That quarterback turned in to play on a field goal by a his uniform and never played young man who never kicked again,” Bisceglia said. “For one before,” he said. “But we Mario, it was, ‘You didn’t lishad a great bunch of kids on ten to me. I don’t need you. that team. It was something Goodbye.’” new then and a big thrill. It Holland confirmed Marchiwas a sign of progress. Many sio’s penchant for hitting peoother states had a playoff beple with his clipboard. fore Massachusetts and the “He went through a dozen best thing about the games is clipboards a year,” he said. the exposure for the kids and “The players were used to that. the school.” He chewed out people. Nick Abramo is the CommuHe added, “Today, he would nity Advocate’s resident sports have been sued five times over. columnist. He writes weekly reBut he actually loved the sport flections on the players, coaches, and many of the kids knew he teams and moments of days gone loved the sport.” by that wrote themselves into the Bisceglia agreed. local history books.

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, April 2, 2021 • 17

COMMUNITY SPORTS

Westborough girls volleyball off to a strong start HIGH SCHOOL SCOREBOARD By Chris Wilson Contributing Writer REGION - Week two of the Fall II season has concluded with a number of football and girls volleyball matchups dotting the schedule. Westborough’s volleyball squad has specifically started the season strong with four straight decisive 3-0 victories. “Every single one of them ALGONQUIN VOLLEYBALL– March 22

ALGONQUIN – 3, NASHOBA – 0

VOLLEYBALL – March 25 ALGONQUIN – 3, NASHOBA – 0

FOOTBALL – March 26

brings the focus, effort and enthusiasm we expect on a daily basis,” Head coach Roger Anderson said of his players in comments to the Community Advocate. Anderson, a 2014 Massachusetts Girls Volleyball Coaches Association Hall of Fame inductee, said his players have done a great job through the start of the year. This is a tougher season than most, Anderson conceded. Through it all, though, he says he’s proud to see players focused on what matters most. “All of our players have accepted each other, and sup-

ported each other,” he said. “… This is far more important than anything else”. Outside of Westborough, other volleyball highlights include Hudson snagging a 3-1 win over Montachusett on its Senior Night. That capped a 3-0 week for the Hawks, also full of two victories over Leominster. Algonquin volleyball extended its own undefeated season with two new wins last week, shutting out Nashoba on March 22 and March 25. Grafton and Marlborough struggled on the court. But Shrewsbury managed to split its volleyball schedule, losing

Marlborough football tops Algonquin; ARHS falls to 0 - 2

ALGONQUIN – 6, MARLBOROUGH – 14

by a 3-2 decision to Wachusett before coming back, two days later, to turn the tables. In Friday night football action, Grafton rolled to a 48-0 victory over Middlesex Regional while Shrewsbury lost a nailbiter to Doherty after they failed to convert on a fourth-and-goal situation at the end of the game. Marlborough slid past Al-

gonquin thanks in part to a short, first quarter touchdown, while Hudson lost its football matchup against Littleton, 35-7. After dominating volleyball opponents, Westborough football fell to Nashoba by a score of 14-7. See individual, game-bygame scores from a week of action…

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GRAFTON VOLLEYBALL – March 23 GRAFTON – 0, MILLBURY – 3

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VOLLEYBALL – March 25 GRAFTON – 1, MILLBURY – 3

FOOTBALL – March 26

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HUDSON VOLLEYBALL – March 22 HUDSON – 3, LEOMINSTER 1

VOLLEYBALL – March 24 HUDSON – 3, LEOMINSTER – 1

A gang of Algonquin defenders drag down Marlborough’s Edwin Cardona.

VOLLEYBALL – March 26

Algonquin senior captain Mike McEvoy chases down Marlborough sophomore Brandon Alfaro.

HUDSON – 3, MONTACHUSETT – 1

FOOTBALL – March 27

HUDSON – 7, LITTLETON – 35

MARLBOROUGH VOLLEYBALL – March 22 MARLBOROUGH – 0, AMSA – 3

VOLLEYBALL – March 25 MARLBOROUGH – 0, AMSA – 3

FOOTBALL – March 26

MARLBOROUGH – 14, ALGONQUIN – 6

SHREWSBURY VOLLEYBALL – March 23

SHREWSBURY – 2, WACHUSETT– 3

VOLLEYBALL – March 25

SHREWSBURY – 3, WACHUSETT – 2

FOOTBALL – March 26

SHREWSBURY – 20, DOHERTY - 27

WESTBOROUGH VOLLEYBALL – March 23

WESTBOROUGH – 3, SHEPHERD HILL – 0

VOLLEYBALL – March 25

WESTBOROUGH – 3, SHEPHERD HILL – 0

FOOTBALL – March 26

WESTBOROUGH – 7, NASHOBA - 14

By Jeff Slovin, Contributing Writer MARLBOROUGH - The Marlborough High School football team defeated visiting Algonquin Regional High School by a score of 14-6 in a game played March 26. Leading the scoring, Marlborough’s Edwin Cardona scrambled into the endzone from one yard out in the second quarter. Jason Short followed in the third quarter, scoring from four yards out. In the losing effort, Algonquin’s Rio Ferguson scored a touchdown on 18. Marlborough is now 2-0 this season while Algonquin falls to 0-2. Football is normally a fall sport in Central Massachusetts, however, due to COVID, it is being played this year during a special season known as “Fall 2” that spans March and April.

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18 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, April 2, 2021

COMMUNITY SERVICE Algonquin junior hosting April fundraiser to benefit Flutie Foundation for Autism NORTHBOROUGH – April is Autism Acceptance Month and Andrew Roberts, a junior at Algonquin Regional High School (ARHS), wants to dedicate this month to giving back to the autism community. He has organized a month-long fundraiser to benefit the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism. Roberts has been part of the organization’s fellowship program since 2018 working as a multimedia journalist, covering various events on behalf of the Foundation. His first assignment was to report on the Flutie-sponsored golfers who competed in the 2018 Special Olympics USA Games in Seattle. Roberts’ involvement in the organization grew out of his passion for sports journalism and the recognition of the sports blog he started when he was 10 years old, bostonsports-

Andrew Roberts wears a hoodie he is selling to raise money for the Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism

mania.com. For the seven-year anniversary of his blog, Roberts has designed a new logo that he created in his ARHS digital art class. He is using this new logo for an apparel fundraiser that he has organized to give back to the Flutie Foundation. All prof-

its will be donated directly to the Foundation, which according to its website “helps people and families with autism live life to the fullest.” The Flutie Foundation was founded in 1998 by local football legend, Doug Flutie and his wife Laurie in honor of their son Dougie, who was diagnosed with autism at age three. The apparel being sold for Roberts’ fundraiser is being manufactured and shipped by Spectrum Designs, a New York based non-profit that employs adults with autism. As Roberts states in his March 25 Twitter post, “every dollar spent [on this apparel] will go back to the autism community.” Visit bostonsportsmania. com for more information. To learn more about the Flutie Foundation visit flutiefoundation.org.

Chalk drawings mark Westborough’s annual ‘kindness week’ WESTBOROUGH – Chalk drawings outside the youthrun Westborough Sugar Shack were just some of the visual manifestations of the annual Town o f We s t b o r ough Kindness Week, March 21 – March 27. Organized by local group Westborough PHOTO /DAVID BAGDON Connects, Kindness Week ran with daily themes encouraging outreach and connection in a year especially marked by the isolation COVID-19 has brought. March 24 was “Chalk the Walks” day, bringing three particular Westborough High School students, Rachanna, Priyanka and Tiffany to the Sugar Shack, downtown, where they drew spring themed chalk drawings to mark the occasion.

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, April 2, 2021 • 19

COMMUNITY NEWS

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20 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, April 2, 2021

COMMUNITY OBITUARIES The Community Advocate will post obituaries online (and in print, as space allows) at no charge as a courtesy to our readers. 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 Amorelli, Leila of Shrewsbury Bowen, Norma of Shrewsbury Busch, Ellen of Hudson Caron, Valerie of Westborough Chappelle, Jean of Southborough Cote, Lucille of Marlborough DeLong-Stochaj, Leta of Shrewsbury Dimentberg, Mikhail of Shrewsbury Gatzios, Nicholas of Shrewsbury Holmes, Thomas of Hudson Holt, Matthew formerly of Westborough Jusseaume, Helene of Marlborough LeBlanc, Alfred of Marlborough Michels, Jennifer of Hudson Moran III, Martin of Hudson Robinson, Richard of Hudson Rogers, Arthur of Grafton and Haverhill Urban, James of Southborough Wood, Donna of Grafton Wu, Rose of Hudson Scan QR code to read all of this week’s obituaries on our website.

Norma C. Bowen, 86 SHREWSBURY - Norma C. (Caird) Bowen, 86, of Shrewsbury, passed away unexpectedly on March 17, 2021 at UMass Memorial Hospital. Her husband of 53 years, Dr. Gerald E. Bowen, predeceased her. She leaves her loving children, David C. Bowen and his wife Paula of Cumberland, R.I., and Joan M. Dowd and her husband Gregory of Shrewsbury; her beloved grandchildren, Alexandra Bowen Greenfield and her husband Allen, Julia Bowen and her fiancé Sean Buckley, and Hannah, Brendan, and Andrew Dowd; her brother, George Caird, of Colbrook, N.H.; along with two nieces and a nephew. A prayer service and burial

will be held privately for Mrs. Bowen’s family. The BrittonShrewsbury Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.

Arthur L. Rogers, 74 HAVERHILL/GRAFTON - Arthur L. Rogers, 74, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2021 at home with his loving family by his side. Arthur was born in Newburyport, the son of Clarence and Margaret Rogers. Arthur is survived by his wife, Mary Ellen Rogers; daughter Mary Ethel Rogers; son Arthur Leonard Rogers Jr.; grandchildren Heather Pierce, Kyle Wilson, Ashley Rogers, Joshua Rogers, Staisa Rogers, and Erik Rogers; great-grandchildren Paisley and Jolene Pierce, Annabelle Rogers, as well as sister Beverly Cerulo, brother Hallett Rogers, aunt May; many amazing nieces and nephews; and friends that he loved dearly. Our beloved Dad, Arthur L. Rogers, aka Bumpsy and Karate Artie, will be remembered for his sharp wit, funny sense of humor, humble warm heart, and generous spirt and will be deeply missed. Family and friends are invited and will be contacted with more information with the date to our Dad’s burial service. The service will be held at Highland Cemetery in Newburyport during this summer 2021 on a date yet to be announced. Roney Funeral Home of North Grafton is assisting with arrangements.

Matthew J. Holt, 60 CLINTON - Matthew Joseph Holt, 60, of Clinton, formerly of Westborough, passed away on March 17, 2021 at UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester. Born in Framingham, Matt was the son of the late Nita Adair (deBairos) Holt and the late Richard James Holt. He leaves behind many loving friends and family: his daughter, Ksenia; nephews Matthew Brewer and Ethan Holt; his surviving brothers, Chris and Peter; sister-in-law Susannah; cousins Mary, Pat, and Judy Holt, Mary Ann, Michael, Thomas and Cindy Walsh, April (Brewer) Gingras; soul brothers

Roger Clapp and Kevin Cannon; good friend Charley O’Neill; and a host of other people and colleagues whose lives he touched. Calling hours were held March 24 at Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home of Westborough, followed with a Celebration of Life service.

Mikhail Fedorovich Dimentberg, 86 SHREWSBURY - Mikhail Fedorovich Dimentberg, 86, of Shrewsbury, passed away peacefully on Feb. 13, 2021 at home, surrounded by his loving family. Mikhail was predeceased by his wife of 55 years, Irina Akimovna Gyurdzhan-Dimentberg. Mikhail is survived by his daughter, Olga Gyurdzhan and her husband Boris Osipian of Shrewsbury, and his grandson, Arsen Gourjian and his fiancée Kimberly of Sturbridge. Mikhail will be buried in Moscow along with his family. All services will be held privately. Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel of Worcester is assisting the family with arrangements.

James K. Urban, 78 SOUTHBOROUGH - James K. Urban, 78, of Southborough, passed away on March 21, 2021 after a battle with heart disease. He was the beloved husband of the late Carolyn (Zelesky) Urban, who died in 2013. Jim and Carol never had any children, but between them they had many nieces and nephews that were very much a part of their lives. He is survived by an aunt, Caroline Campbell of Ohio, in-laws, cousins, and nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife Carol, Jim was predeceased by his sister, Christina Angerman; his sister-in-law, Christine (Zelesky) Woods, and a brother-in-law, John Zelesky. His funeral Mass was held March 25 at St. Matthew Church of Southborough, with burial at the Southborough Rural Cemetery. The Morris Funeral Home of Southborough assisted with arrangements.

Lelia E. Campbell Amorelli, 71 SHREWSBURY - Lelia E. (Faull) Campbell Amorelli, 71, of Shrewsbur y, passed away on March 18, 2021 at Memorial Hospital in Worcester. Lelia was born in Somerville, daughter of the late, Harold C. and Margaret (Hunt) Faull. She is survived by her loving husband, who she met on a blind date in 1980, Frank J. Amorelli Jr.; two sons, George Campbell and Holly of Auburn and Adam Campbell and Dawn of Shrewsbury; two grandchildren, Ava and Jacob Brown; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by three brothers, Harold Faull Jr. and Charles and William Wood. Memorial calling hours and a prayer service were held March 25 at Mercadante Funeral Home of Worcester.

Jean A. Chappelle, 81 SOUTHBOROUGH - Jean A. (Roverano) Chappelle, 81, of Southborough, passed away on March 23, 2021 after a period of declining health. Born in Framingham, she was the daughter of the late Henry and Marian (Laverdure) Roverano. She is survived by her children, Edward Chappelle III of Natick, John Chappelle of Marlborough, and Amiee Chappelle-Hardesty of Colorado; her three grandchildren, Nicholas, Samantha, and Alice; and a close friend, Lorraine Champlin of Hopkinton. She was predeceased by a son, Christopher Chappelle, and a special cousin, Claire (Laverdure) McGrath. At Jean’s request there will not be any services. The Morris Funeral Home of Southborough assisted with arrangements.

Donna M. Wood, 67 GRAFTON - Donna M. Wood, 67, passed away March 16, 2021 at UMass Memorial in Worcester following an illness. She was predeceased by her parents, Doris H (Allain) and Norman F. Wood, and her two broth-

ers, Norman Jr. and baby John. Donna is survived by her siblings, Debbie Hill and her late husband Charles, Carol Bagdis and her husband Steve, and Robert Wood and his wife Gina; her aunt, Helena Allain and Uncle Rene Allain; and many cousins. She is also survived by her niece and nephews, Kelly Benoit and her husband Mark, Adam Bagdis and his wife Meredith, Justin Bagdis, Matthew Hill and his wife Christine and Joseph Wood, and her greatnieces and nephews, James, Sean and Ava Benoit, Abby Hill, and Mason Wood. Funeral services and burial will be held privately at her family’s convenience. Roney Funeral Home of North Grafton assisted with arrangements.

Leta DeLongStochaj, 58 SHREWSBURY - Leta DeLongStochaj, 58, passed away at home on March 23, 2021 following a sudden illness. She leaves her loving husband of 34 years, Michael Stochaj; her son, Christian Stochaj; her mother, Hazel (Wagner) DeLong; her sisters, Dawn Wentworth and Cheryl Strong and her husband Robert; and her niece, Rachel Laprade, and nephews, Benjamin and Alex Strong. She was predeceased by her father, Richard DeLong. A gathering with Leta’s family and friends was held March 27 at Roney Funeral Home of North Grafton.

Valerie T. Caron, 88 WESTBOROUGH - Valerie T. Caron, 88, of Westborough, passed away on March 14, 2021. She was predeceased by her husband of 61 years George R. Caron Jr. Born in Killingly, Conn., she was the daughter of the late Norman and Elizabeth (Butterworth) Tennett. Valerie is survived by two children, Elizabeth C. Conrad and her husband Robert of Napa, Calif. and Thomas R. Caron and his wife Teresa of Westborough; three grandchildren, Genevieve Conrad, Colin Caron, and Richard Caron; and the Wednesday Night Crew. Services and interment will be private. Pickering & Sons Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, April 2, 2021 • 21

POLICE LOG The information in the police log is obtained directly from the official records maintained at each police station in our circulation area. Those arrested are innocent until proven guilty. The Community Advocate will publish news of acquittals upon notification and a copy of court issued documentation.

Grafton

Sunday, March 14 4:09 p.m. Main/Ferry Sts. Motor vehicle violations. 4:55 p.m. Leland St. Fraud/identity theft. 8:40 p.m. Milk St. Fire – mutual aid. 11:41 p.m. Old Ferry St. Motor vehicle stop. Monday, March 15 5:22 p.m. Providence Rd./Depot St. Motor vehicle stop. 7:03 a.m. Main St. Road rage. 9:24 a.m. Pleasant St. Fraud/identity theft. 12:09 p.m. Countryside Rd. Wires down. 1:18 p.m. Orchard St. Well-being check. 3:57 p.m. Snow Rd. Motor vehicle stop. Tuesday, March 16 5:52 a.m. Milford Rd./Bay farm Ln. Motor vehicle stop. 7:45 a.m. Millbury St. Motor vehicle stop. 8:15 a.m. Millbury St. Monitoring school. 11:20 a.m. Providence Rd. Harassment.

“POWER USERS”

11:25 a.m. Main St. Well-being check. 8:54 p.m. Forest Ln. Fire – gas odor. Wednesday, March 17 9:26 a.m. Woodside Dr. Fraud/identity theft. 9:34 a.m. Providence Rd. Scam/attempted scam. 4:09 p.m. Providence Rd. Road hazard. 4:23 p.m. Mass Pike E. Accident – personal injury. 7:43 p.m. Providence Rd. Fire – mutual aid. Thursday, March 18 7:46 a.m. Maple Ave. Motor vehicle stop. 1:26 p.m. Jordan Ter. Parking violation. 4:38 p.m. Hollywood Dr. Fraud/identity theft. 6:21 p.m. Main St. Well-being check. Friday, March 19 5:22 a.m. Milford/Taft Mill Rds. Motor vehicle stop. 6:31 a.m. Worcester St./Airport Rd. Motor vehicle stop. 8:17 a.m. North St. Well-being check. 2:43 p.m. Worcester St. Larceny/ theft. 9:05 p.m. Worcester St. Well-being check. Saturday, March 20 8:14 a.m. Old Westboro Rd. Motor vehicle stop. 9:35 a.m. Providence Rd./Main St. Erratic operator. 10:19 a.m. Keith Hill Rd. Fire – brush. 10:38 a.m. N Main St. Motor vehicle stop. 1:26 p.m. Upton St. Fire – brush. 1:37 p.m. Westboro Rd./Willard St.

Well-being check.

Shrewsbury

Friday, March 19 11:04 a.m. Farmington Dr. Identity theft. 2:02 p.m. Hartford Tpke. Threats. 10:47 p.m. Boston Tpke. Harassment. Saturday, March 20 1:20 a.m. Boston Tpke. Dispute. 5:20 p.m. Brooklawn Pkwy. Harassment. Sunday, March 21 9:56 a.m. Browning Rd. Vandalism. 5:02 p.m. Maple Ave. Road hazard – trees/wires/debris. Monday, March 22 12:12 p.m. Julio Dr. Larceny. 1:45 p.m. Bumblebee Cir. Identity theft. 5:40 p.m. Arrested, Dylan J. Harding, 24, of 54 Tulip Cir., S Grafton, on warrant. Tuesday, March 23 11:52 a.m. Heatherwood Dr. Trespassing. 2:08 p.m. Boston Tpke. Assaults. 2:38 p.m. Oak St. Road hazard – trees/wires/debris. 6:44 p.m. Adams Rd. Identity theft. 9:14 p.m. Melvin Ave. Dispute.

Northborough

Monday, March 15 3:30 p.m. South St. Scams. Tuesday, March 16 3:27 p.m. Arrested, Keith Colby Leighton, 32, of 65 Lake Ave., Apt. 207, Worcester, on warrant. 4:10 p.m. Davis St. Fraud. 5:13 p.m. Main St. Trespass.

Wednesday, March 17 9:28 a.m. Arrested, Leticia Souza Dossantos, 22, of 61 Jefferson St., Apt. 11, Milford, for speeding in violation of special regulation, op MV with license suspended, unregistered motor vehicle. 8:10 p.m. Lyman St./Talbot Rd. Accident: P.D. Thursday, March 18 10:58 a.m. Solomon Pond Rd./Route 290. Accident: P.D. 6:20 p.m. Belmont St. Well-being check. 7:53 p.m. Southwest Cutoff. Wellbeing check. Friday, March 19 5:56 p.m. Shops Way. Vandalism. Saturday, March 20 12:34 p.m. Howard St. Dog complaint. 9:01 p.m. West Main St. Dog complaint.

Westborough

Saturday, March 13 1:11 p.m. South/Cottage Sts. Accident property damage. Sunday, March 14 4:19 a.m. W Main St. Accident property damage. 10:44 a.m. Turnpike Rd. Larceny. 3:18 p.m. Hill St. Road/tree. 4:26 p.m. W Main St. Threats made. Monday, March 15 1:43 p.m. Arrested, Meghan Gonsalves, 31, of 7 Packard St., Stoughton, on default warrant. 3:10 p.m. Arrested, Robert J. Perron, 54, of 8 E Main St., Apt. 7R, Westborough, for OUI-liquor or .08% 4th or greater offense, OUI while license suspended for OUI, negligent operation of motor vehicle, moped

violation. 11:41 p.m. Homestead Blvd. Trespassing. Tuesday, March 16 10:18 a.m. Lyman St. Burglary/ breaking & entering. 10:14 p.m. Turnpike Rd. Erratic operator. Wednesday, March 17 7:54 a.m. W Main/Nourse Sts. Accident property damage. 8:36 a.m. E Main St. Accident property damage. 5:01 p.m. Lyman/Chauncy Sts. Road/tree. 7:52 p.m. Turnpike Rd. Accident property damage. 11:56 p.m. Oak St. Erratic operator. Thursday, March 18 4:35 p.m. Technology Dr. Trespassing. Friday, March 19 12:14 a.m. Arrested, Nathaniel Barrows, 22, of 50 Slater St., Webster, on default warrant. 7:05 p.m. Charlestown Meadows Dr. Accident property damage. Saturday, March 20 11:09 a.m. Charles St. Accident – personal injury. 10:03 p.m. Arrested, Angelo Zona, 32, of 12 Perkins St., Apt. 1, Worcester, for larceny from person, intimidate witness. Sunday, March 21 12:31 p.m. School/W Main Sts. Accident (pedestrian). Tuesday, March 23 1:18 p.m. Milk St. Larceny. 3:37 p.m. Turnpike Rd. Larceny. 11:01 p.m. Arrested, Minaway Garley, 26, of 52 Circuit S Ave., Apt. 4, Worcester, for OUI-liquor or .08% per se, B&E into a motor vehicle.

SUPER CROSSWORD

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22 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, April 2, 2021

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, April 2, 2021 • 23

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