Community Advocate Newspaper July 2, 2021

New little library tackles anti-racism

Shrewsbury singersongwriter, enjoys busy work schedule

News | 6

Algonquin girls lacrosse beats Shrewsbury

region | 15

sports | 17

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Vol. 47 | No. 27 | July 2, 2021

Shrewsbury School Committee votes to keep ‘Colonial’ mascot

By Laura Hayes Contributing Writer SHREWSBURY - The Colonial is here to stay.

The School Committee voted 3-2 to keep the Shrewsbury High School (SHS) mascot on June 23, with Chair Jon Wensky, Vice Chair Sandra Fryc and member Dale Magee voting to keep it, and members Lynsey Heffernan and Jason Palitsch voting against it.

Any future updates to the image of the mascot will occur at the high school level.

“In my many years on the committee, this issue is the most divisive that I have encountered,” Fryc said.

Many of the committee members commented on the tone of the conversation. Heffernan described it as “polarizing” and “vitriol,” saying it was “disheartening to me because I don’t believe that it represents the core values of the community.”

This was the first time that the School Committee voiced its opinions on whether to change the mascot.

Mascot | 11

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Northborough woman and son to run 125th Boston Marathon for Flutie Foundation

By Debra Roberts Contributing Writer NORTHBOROUGH - Connie Cao of Northborough is a goal-setter.

Five years ago, she set the goal of running a marathon before she turned 50. Though she had no training, she met her goal, qualifying for and completing the Providence Marathon before her fiftieth birthday.

This year, at 55, she plans to run the Boston Marathon with her son Enchee Xu, a junior at Algonquin Regional High School to raise money for the Doug Flutie Junior Foundation for Autism.

Cao approaches these challenges even as she describes herself as a traditionally non-athletic person.

“In high school and college, I couldn’t even pass the basic running requirement in my athletics classes. I had to repeat the classes just to pass the test,” she said of her experience growing up in Shanghai, China.

Cao started running in her 40’s, though, participating in local 5K races. Her first was the 2013 Northborough Applefest 5K. In 2014 she participated in the New England Center for Children 5K for Autism in Southborough, which was of interest to her because Enchee was diagnosed with autism at age three.

Connie Cao | 8

Connie Cao completes the 2020 London Virtual Marathon. Her son, Enchee Xu runs toward the finish line with his mother to complete his first half marathon.

Blooming friendships North Street Elementary uses garden to foster community outreach

schools | 12

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2 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, July 2, 2021

COMMUNITY NEWS Shrewsbury man dies after being pulled from pool Tragedy part of state-wide surge in drownings

By Dakota Antelman Managing Editor SHREWSBURY - A man died June 23 after being pulled from a pool on Spring Street in Shrewsbury, police say.

An initial 911 call came in at 8:50 a.m. reporting a 60-year old male found unresponsive in a pool.

Shrewsbury Police, Fire and Worcester EMS personnel responded to the scene, with a police officer on a nearby traffic detail being the first to arrive. Upon arrival, that officer found a “Good Samaritan neighbor” had already removed the man from the pool.

“Responders immediately attempted lifesaving measures, and the victim was transported to UMass Hospital, where he was later

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pronounced dead,” police explained in a press release around 1:30 p.m.

This incident remained under investigation by the Shrewsbury Police Department and the Massachusetts State Police as of June 24.

The drowning, likewise, was the latest in a string of similar tragedies across the region and the state.

On June 4, a police officer drowned trying to save a 14-year-old boy, who also drowned, at the Green Hill Park pond in nearby Worcester. Outside of that, at least 13 other people drowned across the state between May 15 and June 24, according to reporting by the Boston Globe.

While most of these incidents have taken place in ponds, lakes or at ocean

beaches, Shrewsbury is now mourning the state’s third recent death from drowning in a swimming pool, according to the same report.

This is part of a year-long trend that has seen more than twice as many drownings through May than were seen during the same span last year.

Experts speaking to multiple media outlets blame a number of factors, including last month’s record-breaking heatwave, which created dangerous situations for swimmers jumping into water that was still relatively cold.

State officials have also increased lifeguard pay at state beaches, encouraged water safety best practices, and touted the benefit of swim lessons especially after COVID-19 limited such lessons last summer.

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EDITOR’S NOTE: The Community Advocate welcomes all questions, critiques and concerns regarding our reporting as we continue our efforts to provide complete, professional and balanced coverage of our communities.

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To the writer and editor, As a 35 year Westborough resident and member of the Planning Board, I was interested to read the article on the closure of this particular business as it was unclear the root cause based on comments made to me by two former customers who were very upset that the business ceased operations. I expected to read about the relevant operational issues and reasons why the business closed.

The headline is very accurate in that the reader is left with two fundamental questions that should have been clarified in the first 2 paragraphs.

First and foremost, did Westborough’s Zone Enforcement officer, Fred Lonardo issue a formal notice of zoning violation? If so, what bylaw was violated, what objective evidence was gathered to support the finding, and on what date did he issue a notice in writing? (Also, Mr. Lonardo, should have been named given his role and his material involvement in the story and the extent to which the writer explains the Town’s governance structure in paragraph 12.) In paragraph 11, the writer indicates that Selectboard chair Edinberg said the business owners were “made aware of a relevant zoning bylaw regarding noise issues/nuisance.” How were they made aware? Was it by way of phone call? Letter? The article proceeds to quote Mr. Edinberg about interpretations of the zoning bylaws concerning noise (not his position or expertise), and the extent to which the owners have invested in additional mitigation barriers and adjusted operations since they opened. But it is unclear if these measures were taken prior to or in response to the noise complaints by residents referenced in paragraph 15. The remaining paragraphs describe activities that would only be logical if the owners were being charged with a violation. However, the article never clarifies the core issue — is the business operating in violation of a noise ordinance for a commercial industrial zone. To answer that question, you would need to interview Mr. Lonardo, the Zoning Enforcement Officer. Why didn’t the reporter do so?

Second, why did the owners choose to unilaterally close their business? Was it because they were issued a zoning violation, were threatened by the Town, or for other reasons?

The story that I wish you had written in 10-12 paragraphs should have included the pertinent facts based on direct interviews with the principals: the owners and the Zoning Enforcement Officer. Did this business close because they were issued a zoning violation for noise?

If not, what was the reason to shutter operations for what appeared to be a very successful business offering a needed service with many loyal customers? I wish you had conducted interviews and gathered facts to inform your readers. Instead, everyone is left with concerns and questions about the closure of this business.

Btw...my wife and I are very loyal readers of the Community Advocate and appreciate the effort and resources that you dedicate to reporting the hard news generated from local government activities.

There is far too little independent reporting on these matters, and the public suffers greatly as a result.

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, July 2, 2021 • 3

A furry friend in Northborough THE

OVER TOP

PHOTO/TAMI WHITE PHOTO/COURTESY LYNN DESPOSITO

Dean Park rainbow SHREWSBURY - Drone photography recently caught a rainbow formed in the mist below a sprinkler at one of three baseball diamonds in Shrewsbury’s Dean Park. Shrewsbury is short one baseball field this summer, as Dean Park’s upper baseball field was set to close for renovations “on or about June 28” according to a May 18 notice.

letters to the editor

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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NORTHBOROUGH - A photographer in Northborough recently snapped a photo of a lone fox peering around the base of a tree on a neighbor’s property. Lynn Desposito wrote in an email to the Community Advocate that this was just one of several furry visitors in recent weeks.

Diane Sabatini | 508.523.6462 Cynthia Merchant | 508.736.4332 Mary Ellen Cyganiewicz | ext. 17 Barbara Clifford | 774.243.6881

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HINT: The region of Le Colline del Prosecco di Conegliano e Valdobbiadene achieved UNESCO Heritage Site status in 2019 due to the region’s role in Prosecco’s production.

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4 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, July 2, 2021

COMMUNITY NEWS

Selectman Casavant named ‘Commonwealth Heroine’

By Laura Hayes Contributing Writer SHREWSBURY - Shrewsbury selectman Beth Casavant was recently named a Commonwealth Heroine of 2021.

She joined the ranks of 136 women across the state recognized in a ceremony on June 23, which also locally included the Director of the Marlborough Community Cupboard, Barbara LaGrenade.

The ceremony was held by the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women.

“Beth has shown us over many years a genuine commitment to improving the lives of those in our community and beyond,” said Rep. Hannah Kane (R-Shrewsbury) in a press release. “She does all of this while raising two daughters, illustrating the life lesson she learned from her parents and one we should all live by; joyfully giving one’s time and talent pays dividends to the communities

Selectman Beth Casavant during a recent meeting.

you call home.”

All of the heroines were nominated by state legislators. Kane nominated Casavant.

According to the commission’s website, Commonwealth Heroines are described as “women who don’t make the news, but make the difference.”

Casavant moved to

PHOTO/LAURA HAYES

Shrewsbury in 2008. Originally elected in 2017, Casavant is now in her second term on the Board of Selectmen. She recently served as Chair in 2020. She is also involved in the Shrewsbury Rotary Club while working as the director of an annual golf tournament for local nonprofits.

Before her election to the

Selectman Beth Casavant stands with Rep. Hannah Kane.

Board of Selectmen, Casavant was involved in Shrewsbury as a Town Meeting member and as a trustee of the Shrewsbury Public Library.

She also spent time helping with various initiatives in her daughters’ schools.

Kane noted that Casavant was “instrumental” in the construction of new schools in Shrewsbury, as well as the

town’s new police station.

Casavant also led efforts to pass Shrewsbury’s first operational override.

Kane said she appreciated Casavant’s eagerness to step into any role or task.

“No matter what she does, Beth constantly exhibits the true meaning of community service,” Kane said.

Casavant said Kane’s community involvement is an inspiration and added that she was grateful for the recognition.

“I have worked alongside so many talented women who also prioritize volunteerism while balancing the demands of family and career,” Casavant said. “The friendships I have made along the way are the greatest reward.”

Casavant was recognized during the June 22 selectmen meeting by Chair John Samia.

“Beth has done a tremendous amount for our community, and congratulations on your award,” said Samia.

“Well deserved.”

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, July 2, 2021 • 5

COMMUNITY NEWS

Revisions to continue on policies for flags, signs in Downtown Westborough

By Susan Gonsalves Contributing Writer WESTBOROUGH - After receiving feedback from his fellow Select Board members, Patrick Welch will continue to revise Westborough’s policies regarding flags and signs on townowned property. He is expected to return at a future meeting with a proposal.

The issue was brought up recently when the town’s Veteran Advisory Board sought to have a display featuring both flags and signs in the rotary in recognition of Memorial Day. The town’s current policy only allows planted signs for Town Meeting, Election Day and water conservation ban notices.

Ultimately, an exception was made.

Welch was given the task of reviewing existing sign policies and has been working with Town Manager Kristi Williams to revise them. Policy revisions are among the board’s strategic goals for this year.

During the June 22 Select Board meeting, Welch noted that the current policy states that the town follows the U.S. flag code. The draft he presented spoke about allowing another nation’s flag only at Bay State Commons in conjunction with an event.

Chair Allen Edinberg questioned what allowances would be made for POW, 911 memorial, and the state flag, as examples on any town property such as the rotary. Welch said following the U.S. code, those would be allowed to fly, but below the U.S. flag. He said he would add language into the policy to clarify those uses.

Select Board member Shelby Marshall asked about flags

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Cars travel around the rotary in downtown Westborough. As of June 27, the rotary featured American flags and signs in recognition of area veterans as of June 27.

belonging to civic groups or for causes like Pride Month being allowed at the Commons.

“You should be aware if you allow a flag, you allow any flag, and so certainly understand the implications related to free speech,” Williams said.

Marshall noted that events have to be sanctioned by the town manager. Any event perceived to be dangerous or offensive would not be allowed, so the flag issue is irrelevant in those cases, Marshall said.

During the discussion on signs, Welch noted that public health and emergency type notices would also be allowed in the rotary.

Board members discussed things that would not be allowed, such as advertising, including commercial material as well as phone numbers, websites, or addresses on items; sponsorships; threats of violence; and safety motion and lighting devices that may prove distracting to motorists.

Additionally, they also talked about how religious displays are allowed. Sometimes, the board noted, holidays overlap.

Edinberg said there should be some paperwork so that the town manager can keep track and make sure rotary displays don’t turn into a safety hazard.

able to mark Veterans Day and Memorial Day with signs, Edinberg said, but they should notify the town manager of their plans. That allowance would be for departments and not town boards and committees, he said.

Vice Chair Ian Johnson said that he wanted to see the policy simplified and said it would make more sense to say what is allowed and leave the discussion at that. Any deviation would need the town manager or board’s approval, he said.

“How far do we go?” Welch said. “It’s a difficult tightrope we’ve got to walk here.”

“I appreciate the work, but I’m wondering are we trying to do too much?” Johnson added.

Marshall said that there is the possibility of too many groups or people wanting to simultaneously support something. “I worry about it becoming like a circus of signs,” she said.

Welch thanked his colleagues on the board for their input and will continue to revise the policies.

PHOTO/DAKOTA ANTELMAN

Marshall said that the amount of time each display would remain should be regulated. The policy should also detail consequences if the signs and/or displays are not removed, she suggested.

It should be clear that town departments, like veterans, are

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And how will I do this? Henceforth will I look on all things with love and I will be born again. I will love the sun for it warms my bones; yet I will love the rain for it cleanses my spirit. I will love the light for it shows day wIth love In me the way; yet I will love the darkness for it shows me the stars. I will welcome happiness for it enlarges my heart; yet I will endure sadness for it opens my soul. I will acknowledge rewards for they are my due; my heart. yet I will welcome obstacles for they are my challenge.

And most of all I will love myself. For when I do I will zealously inspect all things which enter my body, my mind, my soul, and my heart. Never will I overindulge the requests of my flesh, rather I will cherish my body with cleanliness and moderation. Never will I allow my mind to be attracted to evil and despair, rather I will uplift it with the knowledge and wisdom of the ages. Never will I allow my soul to become complacent and satisfied, rather I will feed it with meditation and prayer.

Never will I allow my heart to become small and bitter, rather I will share it and it will grow and warm the earth.

I will greet this day with love in my heart.

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6 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, July 2, 2021

COMMUNITY NEWS

New little library tackles anti-racism

By Laura Hayes Contributing Writer SHREWSBURY - On the front lawn of Debbie Linder’s yard is a little free library with a bright red door, holding books promoting diversity and tackling anti-racism.

The Anti-Racism Free Little Library officially opened June 18

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on Main Circle in Shrewsbury.

“It’s a great way to show people in Shrewsbury who aren’t white that this is a welcoming place for them. There are people here who are really committed to making it as welcoming of a place as possible,” said resident and organizer Phil Blumberg.

The library was installed

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Sanam Zaer, Phil Blumberg and Debbie Linder install the little library.

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by members of a community got to work, creating group called “A Better Shrewsa wish list of books bury” after being inspired by a to go into the library, similar free library installed in • 30 year term organizing donations Westborough. and creating a Face• Fast approval “We said, ‘Wow, wouldn’t book page for the little • 24 month grace period that be neat if we had one here library. before first payment too,’” Linder recalled.

“I’m just the lucky 508.864.7758 • No collateral required A Better Shrewsbury is a one that had a house community of Shrewsbury in a good location,” 474 Grove Street , No. 850 • Worcester, MA residents. One of the founding Linder joked. “My www.capitalbizsolutions.com • info@capitalbiz.net members, Sanam Zaer, said the only skillset was havGene Amato group engages with local and ing a front yard.” national issues through educaIt was Blumberg’s tion, dialogue and local action. first time building a The library is one of their little library. But he most recent initiatives, but got to work and con- Marshall and Miles Warren put books in the the group has been involved structed the little li- new little library. in efforts around town, such brary with the help of as having the Kenneth F. Burns plans he found online.

Memorial Bridge over Lake dren’s books, which come in a In the days leading up to its Quinsigamond lit in the Pan variety of sizes, would be able opening, Blumberg was putAfrican colors for Juneteenth. to fit in the library. ting the final touches on the “Our hope is not just to Books are available for all little library and installing it in increase visibility of local antireading levels, ranging from Linder’s front yard. racism efforts, but also give the children’s book “Hair Love” “It was nice because it’s community members a tool to

by Matthew Cherry to the nonsomething that’s within my Branding Concepts learn more about these issues fiction “How to be an Antiraskillset,” he said.

“So, it was a Family Dental Group and talk about them at home cist” by Ibram X. Kendi. nice way for me to be able to and in their social networks,” Linder said that some of contribute.”

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, July 2, 2021 • 7

COMMUNITY NEWS

American Heritage museum to host WWII tank demonstrations HUDSON - The American Heritage Museum will feature WWII tanks operating in a series of demonstrations with accompanying historical narration on Saturday and Sunday, July 10 and 11.

Among other tanks, this weekend event will feature the rare Russian SU-100, of which there are just two on display in North America.

WWII veterans will participate in the exhibition just as all three museums on the property will be open.

Among those veterans potentially appearing is Sherman tank gunner Alfred Consigli and B-17 pilot Bill Purple. Consigli was part of General George Patton’s 774th “Black Cat” brigade. Purple was a B-17 Flying Fortress lead pilot who flew with the 8th Air Force, 379th Bomb Group.

Tank Driving Experiences and Tank Rides will be available in the M4 Sherman and M24 Chaffee through the weekend.

Admission costs $25 for adults, $20 for seniors/veterans, and $15 for children under 12 years old. WWII/Korean War veterans and children under 3 are Free.

Tickets may be purchased the day of the event. However, the museum recommends purchasing tickets in advance.

For tickets visit: https://www. americanheritagemuseum. org/event/tank-demo-day-atahm-2/

New little library tackles anti-racism Library | from page 6

Some of the titles are in different languages.

“That’s the part that I love most about this, is that it really was a community coming together,” Linder said.

The Anti-Racist Free Little Library is an official registered little free library.

Linder said the goal is for the library to be self-sustaining. The library operates on the honor code to bring a book to take a book, but Linder said she believes that because the library belongs to the community, people can take a book if they need it or drop off extra books if they have them.

“My front yard isn’t huge, but bring a picnic, bring a blanket, come read some books here,” Linder said.

The American Heritage Museum will showcase tanks including the M4 Sherman, M24 Chaffee, M26 Pershing, M5 Stuart, German Stug III and more on July 10 and 11.

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FROM PAGE 1 Northborough woman and son to run 125th Boston Marathon for Flutie Foundation Connie Cao | from page 1

From hiking to running Motivated to get Enchee involved in recreational activities, Cao began taking him on hikes when he was around age 10.

They went on various trips of increasing intensity and duration.

“He is such a good boy—he never complained, even when he had leg cramps,” she said.

“Once he has a goal, he wants to keep going with it.”

Their first big trip was to Mount Madison in New Hampshire.

“Enchee was stubborn about wanting to reach the summit,” Cao said.

They have since taken many more hiking trips together, including a 10-day European hiking tour of Mont Blanc. They also spent two summers climbing all 48 of the Appalachian Mountain Club’s 4000-footer summits in New Hampshire.

“Eventually, the hiking evolved into running,” she said

Connie Cao and son Enchee hike Mt. Lafayette and Franconia Ridge in 2014.

and Enchee joined the CrossCountry team in high school.

Support from running group During this time Cao began training with a Chinese running group called the BEN Running Club. The group encouraged her to run her first marathon.

“They told me, ‘Connie, once you run the marathon you will never stop,’ and they were right,” she said, elaborating, “Just like the birth of the first child, when you see your baby crying, you are brave and want to do it again.”

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Connie Cao and son Enchee Xu cross the finish line of the 2020 Boston Marathon, which was a virtual race due to the pandemic.

child— Cao did continue to run marathons.

She completed the London Marathon (virtually in 2020) and Enchee was able to do half of it with her. She qualified for and competed in the 2020 Boston Marathon (also virtual but on the actual marathon course).

Enchee joined her for the last six miles, keeping pace with Cao until the finish line.

Eventually, Enchee outpaced his mom. “He started out slower than me, but now he is faster—I make him run in a circle and come back to me because I don’t want him to get too far ahead,” she said.

Cao’s running group friends further encouraged Enchee.

“They all know Enchee has autism, but they treat him like everyone else,” Cao said. “He is so free when he runs. There is no one to tell him he’s not doing it right. My friends notice he is so happy when running.”

Help from Boston Athletic Association Cao had qualified and registered herself for the 125th Boston Marathon as an in-person runner. But she was only able to get Enchee registered as a virtual runner.

However, she reached out to the Boston Athletic Association (BAA), explaining that she and Enchee wanted to run together to fundraise for an autism charity. The BAA responded a couple of days later with the suggestion that they support the Flutie Foundation. Shortly after, the Flutie Foundation took Enchee as a team member, enabling him the opportunity to run with his mother in the in-person marathon.

Cao’s request was welltimed, as the BAA had announced April 8 that the Flutie Foundation would be the presenting sponsor for the Boston Marathon’s Adaptive Program to make it a more inclusive race for participants with varying physical and developmental impairments, including autism.

Encouraging others to reach for the stars Now that Cao has pushed herself beyond what she ever felt she was capable of, she wants to inspire others to do the same.

“If someone like me—a girl from Shanghai who couldn’t even pass her fitness test in gym class can run a marathon, anyone can...as long as you are willing to put in the effort and train for it,” she said.

Cao’s advice to others who may feel it’s too late to be an athlete: “It started with a dream and ended by an action plan-just do it!”

Additionally, Cao wants to inspire parents who are told that their children can’t achieve certain things.

“They can run, they can hike, they can be good at math and physics,” she said, speaking specifically about children with autism. “Don’t leave them out.

They can do more!”

To help support Cao and her son Enchee raise money for the Flutie Foundation, visit https://www.givengain.com/ ap/enchee-xu-raising-fundsfor-doug-flutie-jr-foundationfor-autism.

For more information about the Flutie Foundation visit FlutieFoundation.org.

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, July 2, 2021 • 9

COMMUNITY NEWS

Select Board reviews site plan for veterinary urgent care

By Susan Gonsalves Contributing Writer WESTBOROUGH - A proposed veterinary urgent care office in Westborough would “bridge the gap” between a traditional family practice and emergency healthcare setting, according to architect Tracie Reed.

Reed appeared before the Select Board June 22 on behalf of Rarebreed Veterinary Partners to present a site plan to locate a 2,800 square foot space on 1 Oak St. near the intersection of Lyman Street and Route 9.

She explained that PetMedic Urgent Veterinary Care would occupy the far left side of a plaza that also features a Chipotle restaurant and FedEx storefront.

The site has an existing 167 parking spaces. PetMedic expects to use 14 of those, she said. Operating hours would be 4 to 11 p.m., and there will be no overnight stays or boarding at the facility.

The idea is a check-in/

check-out set up for animals with cuts and scrapes and other non-emergency medical needs.

“It’s the exact same as urgent care for humans,” Reed said.

The Select Board offered suggestions and recommendations about the plan that will be passed along during an upcoming Planning Board review.

Those included the suggestion of a drop-off area designated in front of the building.

Inside, this project includes four exam rooms as well as treatment, pharmacy and diagnostic areas with one doctor on staff per shift. Reed noted that there is no outdoor recreation space for the animals.

Select Board Chair Allen Edinberg said that it would be beneficial to have an outside space for the animals to relieve themselves so that they are not “strolling to neighboring businesses or lawns” for that purpose.

Marshall noted that the urgent care should have clearly

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marked receptacles for animal waste disposal.

Additionally, Edinberg pointed out the facility would be next door to a dental office.

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Reed also said PetMedic will be “very sensitive” to soundproofing issues and measures that need to be taken.

She said that the business is centered around the values of love, respect, fun and kindness.

By having second shift hours, it allows vets to spend time with their families during the day

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, July 2, 2021 • 11

COMMUNITY SCHOOLS Shrewsbury School Committee votes to keep ‘Colonial’ mascot Mascot | from page 1

Before they weighed in, Wensky said the School Committee had received 227 emails over the past two weeks.

“In my six years, I’ve never seen the volume of correspondence on any issue,” Wensky said.

Reading comments on social media, Wensky said people have suggested that the decision was already determined.

He called those assertions “baseless” and “false.”

“I can say with full transparency and honesty, we have not had a chance to discuss this among the five of us,” he said.

“We can’t unless we’re at this meeting.”

The committee’s decision comes after community members and alumni voiced their arguments for keeping or changing the mascot June 16.

This question of whether the mascot should be changed started after a SHS student submitted a petition asking the School Committee to change the mascot. Soon after, a counter-petition was submitted requesting the mascot be kept.

The School Committee tasked Superintendent Joseph Sawyer with forming an ad hoc committee. That committee offered two recommendations: change the mascot or update its presentation.

Before the School Committee members voted, Sawyer gave his recommendation -- keep the “Colonials” nickname, but update how the mascot is presented.

As part of the update, he suggested that there should be educational opportunities for students and the community on why the mascot was chosen and the historical context of the mascot. That was unanimously approved by the School Committee.

Arguments against “Colonials” A Shrewsbury graduate, Palitsch recalled having “colonial” in his high school email.

Listening to residents, Palitsch said it was clear the town favored celebrating its Revolutionary War history, which he said he supported while also acknowledging that the war or resulting nation

situation where a racial minority has been disenfranchised by the mascot.”

Changing the mascot would be “divisive” and “cause divisions in the SHS community,” she said.

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wasn’t perfect.

There’s a difference between the mascot and the nickname, Palitsch said, explaining that the mascot was the image or costume and nickname was the “Colonial.”

He favored keeping the mascot but said he had more of a “challenge” with the nickname.

The Colonial period preceded the Revolutionary War, he said.

“Colonial” may not be the best word to represent Shrewsbury’s Revolutionary War history, he said.

“Personally, I think the notion that we’re ever fully going to divorce the word ‘colonial’ from ‘colonialism’ is a bit of a stretch,” Palitsh said. “Too many syllables in common.”

Heffernan said there were “valid concerns” regarding the inclusivity of the “Colonials.”

She said she based her opinion on the district’s core values and mission.

The district may need to take responsibility for its actions, particularly if the district caused harm to people who are connected to the Nipmuc Nation or don’t view a Caucasian male as representing everyone,

Heffernan said.

“In time, I think we as a community are going to find that our current mascot, with using the Colonial, that we’re on the wrong side of this issue,” Heffernan said.

Arguments for “Colonials” Magee said the committee was considering if it was “valid to judge” an 18th-century individual by 21st century values and if the “revelation of their failure” negates their good work.

“My interpretation of colonial is a very benign one,” he explained. “It’s a patriotic one.

It is the person who opposed the Colonialist government of England and started us on the pathway we continue to be headed to today.”

Fryc recalled receiving an email from an incoming SHS senior who is also a minority.

The student said many students support keeping the mascot, which was also indicated by a community ThoughtExchange, she said.

“I think it is critical to note that this is not a racial issue,” Fryc said. “We do not have a

ing moment, he said. There are multiple interpretations of “Colonial,” both good and bad, he said.

“Changing the existing mascot, I don’t think will get the desired impact, I really don’t,” Wensky said.

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12 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, July 2, 2021

COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

North Street Elementary uses garden to foster community outreach

By Cindy Zomar Education Coordinator

PHOTO/JENNI PETERS

GRAFTON - Principal Steve Wilshire has been at the North Street Elementary School for about six years and enjoys chatting about the evolution of a garden transformation at the school.

“I have always believed that kids need to get outside and breathe the fresh air, even in the winter,” he proclaimed in a recent interview.

In line with that ideology, a grassy area near the front of the school became a pet project and has grown into an outdoor classroom with a myriad of uses.

The North Grafton ParentTeacher Group and the Grafton Land Trust helped install raised garden beds. Lowe’s and Home Depot donated crushed stone and rocks to help keep the weeds down.

These days, during the school year, classes can be seen sitting quietly outside reading, while at other times the area is a hubbub of science experiment activity.

inadvertently allowing students to get to observe a bird building a nest and raising its young in the eaves.

The Gardening Club meets weekly after school in the community garden during the school year.

To thwart the rabbits Vegetables and flowering perennials attract pollinators, butterflies and, apparently, rabbits, which seem to consider the garden their personal feeding ground.

As the garden grew, an existing chicken wire fence was not deterring the rodents, so the son of one of the cafeteria workers stepped up to help.

“Melvin He decided to make installing a new fence his Eagle Scout project,” Wiltshire explained. “Another parent was renovating at home and donated a large section of his old fence.” He, who was announced as the Advanced Math and Science Academy Charter School valedictorian earlier this year, cut the fence to the right lengths and prepared to install it. But the

project was delayed because of COVID-19.

“We got special permission for him to put it in last summer, and he and his fellow scouts did a professional job,” Wiltshire said.

Their garden safe from rabbits, John Bassett from the maintenance staff built a roof above the outdoor classroom’s chalkboard teaching station,

Girl Scouts lend a hand In addition to He’s Boy Scout contributions, Girl Scout troops 64822 and 3026 have, over the years, raked and spread mulch at the garden.

This summer, meanwhile, Troop 65070 has pledged to keep the parcel weeded and watered according to Wiltshire.

This has further created space for Jenni Peters, a physical education teacher at the school, to use her own gardening skills to host an after-school gardening enrichment club that meets in the garden weekly during the school year.

Across the board, especially during the coronavirus pandemic, Wiltshire sees great value in the garden.

“It’s a great place for a mask break, to dig up worms, and conduct observations and experiments,” he said. “There are plenty of opportunities to engage with the community as well.”

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, July 2, 2021 • 13

COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

Shrewsbury educator Noor Ali aims to be a spot of warm sunlight for others

By Peg Lopata Contributing writer SHREWSBURY - For 41, Noor Ali has accomplished a lot— and she’s bound to do even more. Her guiding philosophy of life won’t allow her to take easy street.

“I am always pushing my boundaries to ask, what more, and what else can be done?” she said. “I’d like to be as my dad was to me, a spot of warm sunlight in a life.”

Background A resident of Shrewsbury for nine years, Ali is originally from Lahore, Pakistan. She came to the U.S. to study. Ali has three children, ages 18, 15 and 2, a doctorate in education from Northeastern University and a master’s degree in English literature. She has 16 years of experience as a teacher and is currently principal at Al-Hamra Academy, an Islamic private day school for students of preschool age through middle school in Shrewsbury.

But Ali is not just a scholar and an educator. She enjoys nature, taking photographs, reading, yoga, gardening and writing.

“I also enjoy just sitting on the couch and having tea,” said Ali. “I like watching cooking shows with absolutely no desire to try out the recipes.”

About Inclusion and more Ali cares deeply about inclusion. She has a master’s degree in inclusion education, has given much thought on the effects of Islamaphobia on young people, and is part of Shrewsbury’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Taskforce.

“I greatly appreciate the mindful work Shrewsbury is embarking on as a town towards diversity, equity and inclusion,” she said.

Many know about her work on behalf of education and social justice, especially the experiences of marginalized students, but there are other causes Ali also cares about.

“I am passionate about supporting the work at the infant critical care unit at the University of Massachusetts Memorial Hospital in Worcester,” she said.

Ali spent a lot of time at UMass as her daughter, born two months early, was a patient there. Meanwhile, the experiences of her son made

Noor Ali is currently principal at Al-Hamra Academy in Shrewsbury.

her an advocate for those with dyslexia. She’s also involved in local efforts against hunger.

Ali, the educator Ali never thought she’d become a teacher or principal— her undergraduate studies were in literature and world history.

Now, in addition to being a principal, she teaches graduate level courses in research

Al-Hamra Academy is an Islamic private day school for students of preschool age through middle school in Shrewsbury. Noor Ali is its principal.

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Achievements aside, above all, Ali strives to be caring.

“Empathy is over everything else, always,” she said.

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, July 2, 2021 • 15

REGION Shrewsbury singer-songwriter, guitarist enjoys busy work schedule

By Ed Karvoski Jr. Contributing Writer

From jazz, to funk jam, to Americana Moon started playing guitar with jazz bands while attending St. John’s High School, where he graduated in 1983.

Soon after graduating from Syracuse University in 1987, he began playing with the funk jam band Free Lunch. They

PHOTO/ARTROCITY, TED THEODORE

SHREWSBURY - Many musicians were challenged by restrictions at performance venues from 2020 into 2021. Yet, singer-songwriter and guitarist Bob Moon of Shrewsbury continued working with increased bookings.

First, he adapted when musicians were allowed to perform only outdoors.

“I’m mostly a lead guitar player for bands, but I can also sing songs and play acoustic guitar,” he noted. “When COVID hit, all the band gigs dried up, but acoustic music could be played outside. I can do that, too. Suddenly, I was working more than I ever did.”

Next, he got additional work when musicians could perform inside venues without singing.

“I started playing guitar against backing tracks because we couldn’t sing inside,” he explained.

Now, he’s once again entertaining as lead electric guitarist with the bands Comanchero and Nasty Habits. Concurrently, he’s performing his solo acoustic act.

“I went from busy to out-ofcontrol busy,” he declared.

fan, Moon is excited that Nasty Habits’ performance venues have now expanded geographically – and increased in volume.

“We’ve been booking gigs left and right,” he proclaimed of the Stones tribute group.

Bob Moon appears at Park Grill & Spirits in Worcester.

debuted at O’Brien’s Pub in Allston.

“It was great,” Moon said of the debut experience. “I never stopped gigging since 1988 to now.”

Free Lunch appeared throughout Boston’s club circuit, including now-closed venues The Channel and The Ratskeller.

When Free Lunch disbanded in 2003, Moon began and continues to perform with the Americana jam band Comanchero. He describes Comanchero’s music as “all original, a funky hybrid of western and southern.”

Comanchero has become a popular act at Boston clubs, festivals and the Hatch Shell on the Esplanade.

Traveling beyond Boston, Comanchero performed at Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion (now known as Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion) in Gilford, N.H. At the nearly 9,000-seat outdoor amphitheater, they shared the bill with ZZ Top and Crosby, Stills, and Nash.

Bob Moon performs onstage.

As his favorite Comanchero gig, Moon cites opening for the British blues/rock band The Yardbirds at Showcase Live at Patriots Place in Foxborough.

During the pandemic, Comanchero recorded and individually released songs from its fifth album.

Paying tribute musically Along the way, Comanchero was the house band for a Linda Ronstadt tribute show.

In recent years, Moon also performed with tribute bands Gov’t Surplus for the Allman Brothers, Fellowship of the King for Elvis Presley, and Let It Bleed for the Rolling Stones.

“People love hearing songs that they know,” Moon relayed.

Beginning in 2020, most of the musicians of Let It Bleed including Moon became known as Nasty Habits. They brought

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Rolling Stones’ songs to shows in New Hampshire and Rhode Island, where restrictions were more relaxed at the time.

A self-described big Stones

Scheduling solo and band gigs Moon includes original and cover songs in his solo acoustic act. He expects to continue working both solo and with bands.

“I can do a lot of the solo acoustic gigs during the week, and then the band gigs Friday to Sunday,” he said. “I love performing solo acoustic and I will continue to do it, but my love is playing lead electric guitar in bands – it’s what I do best.”

Nasty Habits will perform Friday, July 9, from 8 to 11 p.m., at Dante’s at Firefly’s BBQ in Marlborough. Follow “Bob Moon Acoustic” on Facebook.

16 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, July 2, 2021

COMMUNITY SPORTS Algonquin, Westborough High celebrate track team success

By Kevin J. Stone Contributing Writer REGION - Saturday, June 12th was quite a day for both the Algonquin girls track team and the Westborough boys track team.

Both rivals represented the MidWach League and then some, taking home sectional titles.

“This championship was the expression of two years of work by so many of our student-athletes,” said Westborough coach Roger Anderson. “Last year, The Westborough boys track team poses for a team photo. with no spring season, many of our guys continued to work out through the spring, summer, fall “So, clearly, we are very pleased, of 46’10.75”. He took third place and even this past winter, where however not surprised, that our in the discus competition with we had practices only for our guys performed their best when a 130’1” throw. indoor track team.” it mattered most.”

Alan Nguyen took second “Their performances were Senior Ian Welch won the 110 in the long jump with a 20’11” indicative of consistent longhigh hurdles race with a time of jump, fifth in the 110 meter high term effort,” he added.

14.90 seconds. He also won the hurdles with a time of 16.09 “The language we used triple jump with a 42’10” leap seconds and fifth in the pole was that in this pandemic ‘We and was a member of the 4x100 State of-the-art Treatments vault with an even score of 10 showed up, for each other, for relay team that took third place. feet. Kevin Xu was second in new patients, same day our team, for our school andAccepting Ethan Nolin-Halpern was secthe pole vault with a jump of can arranged. for ourselves,’” Anderson said.appointments ond in the shot putbe with a throw 12’6”. The 4x100 team, consistOpen M-F 8am-4:30pm

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ing of Erik Burgdorfer, Welch, Tyler Finnerty and Thaddeus Rodriguez-Felix took third place in a time of 44.99 seconds.

Anderson has coached multiple sports for a number of years, even recently winning a volleyball state title. But he acknowledged there was something to be learned by how this crop of seniors and student-athletes have handled things.

“More than anything, the power of a positive mindset and the ability to embrace those things that we can and cannot control [is important],” he said.

“The belief in hard work and joy as the pathways to success [is also important].”

As Westborough won, Algonquin’s own title was the second straight for its program.

Coach Patrick Galvin echoed many of the same sentiments as Anderson when talking about his squad.

“I am so proud of our entire team for their level of commitment to each other, training, and competing in the midst of a pandemic,” he said. “The season began in January with ten optional outdoor practices in the parking lot with literally freezing temperatures. At our first official Fall II season practice in March, a steady snow came down upon us, and we battled through many days of 90+ deTrack | 17

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, July 2, 2021 • 17

COMMUNITY SPORTS

Algonquin girls lacrosse beats Shrewsbury in MIAA playoffs

Algonquin, Westborough High celebrate Track | from page 16

By Jeff Slovin Contributing Writer NORTHBOROUGH - The top-seeded Algonquin Regional High School girls lacrosse team defeated eighth-seeded Shrewsbury by a score of 13-11 in an MIAA Central/West Division 1 quarterfinal playoff game held June 21.

Algonquin jumped out to a strong 9-4 lead at halftime, but Shrewsbury continued to battle and chip away at the lead, closing the gap to 11-10 with four minutes remaining in the game. However, Algonquin scored two quick goals in the closing minutes to preserve the win.

Lucy Rogers led the offense with seven goals for Algonquin, while Ava Wilde added three. Holly Hruskoci was Shrewsbury’s top scorer, with six goals.

Algonquin hosted Longmeadow in the semi-finals on June 23, losing that game by a score of 13-4.

gree weather this spring.”

“Did I mention the mandatory weekly COVID-19 testing, mask requirements, social distancing, and limited practice times all while adjusting from a hybrid model to full in-person five days a week with first bell at 7:15 a.m.?” he added.

“The girls overcame extraordinary challenges throughout the past six months and never stopped believing in themselves,” Galvin said. “The team was 5-0 in dual meets, Central Mass District E Champions, and Central/West Champions.”

Westborough’s April Davis won the 100-meter dash with a time of 12.80 seconds. She took fourth in the long jump with a jump of 16’4.75” and was part of the winning 4x100m relay team that set a meet record of 51.14 seconds in their race. Christina DeFeudis took second in the 100-meter dash with a 12.89-second sprint.

She snagged second place in the long jump with a jump of 17’ and finished fourth in the 200-meter race in 26.64 sec-

Algonquin’s Abby Pearson and Shrewsbury’s Alexis Kent battle for control of a loose ball.

Shrewsbury’s Holly Hruskoci dashes downfield while being pursued by Algonquin’s Kerryn O’Connell.

onds. Grace Sciacca grabbed second in the 400-meter hurdles, finishing in 1:09.32. She finished third in the pole vault with a 9’6” jump and fifth in the 100-meter hurdles with a time of 16.83 seconds. Anna Long made history with a second-place finish in the 800-meter race, setting a new school record of 2:17.43. She was also a member of the 4x400-meter relay, which finished in 4:14.51.

Priscilla De Carvalho grabbed third in the high jump, clearing the bar at 4’10”. She was also a key cog for the firstplace 4x100m relay squad, running the race’s second leg to help her team set a meet record with a time of 51.14 seconds.

“The Algonquin senior girls will be dearly missed,” Galvin said. “They continuously teach me how to become a better coach. They remind me to laugh, smile, and enjoy the moment.

They force me to think, listen, and hold everyone on our team accountable. They make sure I am understanding, empathetic, and approachable.”

Local teams win big in MIAA playoffs Serving the Community since 1980.

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ALGONQUIN

BOYS LACROSSE – JUNE 21 Algonquin – 3, Longmeadow – 19 VOLLEYBALL – JUNE 21 Algonquin – 3, Medfield – 0 BASEBALL – JUNE 23 Algonquin – 14, Groton-Dunstable – 3 GIRLS LACROSSE – JUNE 23 Algonquin – 4, Longmeadow – 13 VOLLEYBALL – JUNE 23 Algonquin – 0, Lincoln-Sudbury – 3 BASEBALL – JUNE 25 Algonquin – 0, Leominster – 7

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REGION - In the past week, regional schools competed in the MIAA tournament with multiple schools claiming divisional titles.

Shrewsbury’s Girls HIGH SCHOOL Tennis squad efeated SCOREBOARD dWestborough in the Division I Central State Final and also beat Longmeadow in the Division I State Semi-Finals. They will compete for the Division I title next week.

Westborough’s Boys Tennis team took home the Division I Central Title and went on to beat Amherst-Pelham in the Division I State SemiFinals.

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Shrewsbury girls tennis player speaks with a coach during a match earlier this year.

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BOYS LACROSSE – JUNE 21 Grafton – 20, East Longmeadow – 4 SOFTBALL – JUNE 21 Grafton – 2, Wachusett – 4 BASEBALL – JUNE 23 Grafton – 1, St. Paul – 3 BOYS LACROSSE – JUNE 25 Grafton – 14, Wahconah – 16

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GIRLS LACROSSE – JUNE 21 Shrewsbury – 11, Algonquin – 13 BASEBALL – JUNE 21 Shrewsbury – 3, Wachusett – 4

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18 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, July 2, 2021

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Nurse/actress helps deliver babies and musical performances

By Ed Karvoski Jr., Contributing Writer

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SHREWSBURY/GRAFTON – Laura Gulli, RN, a Shrewsbury native now residing in Grafton, works as a labor and delivery nurse while also raising her young children. Pre-pandemic, she also frequently delivered musical performances to audiences in her hometown and beyond.

Laura Gulli is a performer, a labor and delivery nurse and a mother.

“I was doing three to four shows a year,” she said of her pre-pandemic routine. “Something that I’m lacking so immensely right now is my involvement in theater. It balances who I am. It makes me a better mom, a better person.”

Song-and-dance entertainer Gulli personifies the showbiz term “triple threat,” an entertainer who excels in acting, singing and dancing.

As a self-described shy child, she started acting in elementary school plays and subsequently began studying dance. While attending Shrewsbury High School (SHS), her singing skill was recognized by Bonnie Narcisi, the now-retired district director of music and drama.

“Bonnie encouraged me to audition for her a cappella group, which opened up doors for me in musicals,” Gulli relayed. “I liked having the three avenues where I could explore acting, singing and dancing.

It made sense that I could do musical theater.”

Immersed in the arts After graduating from SHS

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Posing for a promo shot for Regatta Players’ “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change” in 2016 are (l to r) Jeff Dodd, Stephanie Sarkisian, Laura Gulli, Josh Raymond, Tessa Newell and Ronald Voice.

in 2001, Gulli attended the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York City.

“It was completely performance driven,” she said of the curriculum. “I loved being immersed in the arts from morning to night.”

Although Gulli achieved some success working in New York theaters, she ultimately moved back to Shrewsbury several years later.

“I gave up on myself a little too quickly,” she acknowledged.

“I didn’t have the thick skin that I feel like I have today. I’ve toughened up quite a bit.”

Discovering another passion Soon afterward, Gulli discovered another passion. She earned a nursing license at Becker College in 2008. Now, she’s a labor and delivery nurse at Saint Vincent Hospital in Worcester.

“I chose labor and delivery

because I was a young mom at 23,” she explained. “I love moms and babies, so it’s a good fit for me.”

Additionally, she appreciates her co-workers.

“I adore my work family,” she declared. “I enjoy working with these intelligent women and helping other women bring new life into the world.”

Shrewsbury stage comeback After only a brief hiatus, Gulli returned to the stage. Her mentor, Bonnie Narcisi, was among the founders of the Shrewsburybased Regatta Players. Gulli performed in Regatta’s 2010 inaugural production, “Baby.”

“It was exciting to be part of a new theater group in Shrewsbury,” she recalled.

Later, when Regatta presented “Young Frankenstein” in 2018, Gulli merged her theatrical and maternal instincts.

Nurse/actress | 19

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Nurse/actress helps deliver babies and musical performances Nurse/actress | from page 18

Comradery in community theaters Gulli has worked alongside some Regatta alumni at other community theaters.

Her resume also includes shows at Barre Players Theater,

Laura Gulli performs in Regatta Players’ “The Wedding Singer” in 2015.

Stageloft Repertory Theater in Sturbridge, Sterling Community Theater and Vanilla Box Productions in Worcester.

She’s looking forward to once again sharing stages with her performing pals.

“I can’t wait to see my theater friends again,” she noted.

“When we get back to some normalcy, I won’t ever take it for granted.”

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By Jesse Kucewicz Contributing Writer SHREWSBURY - Boy Scout Troop Four recognized its five newest scouts to reach the rank of Eagle Scout in a ceremony on June 19 at Floral Street School.

Alexander Pellizzari, Christopher Nerkowski, Benjamin Collins, Berin Bukow, and Aaron Lowy all join a group of 131 others from Troop Four to attain Eagle Scout, a rank achieved by only 8 percent of scouts.

To become an Eagle Scout, individual scouts must earn at least 21 merit badges and complete a special Eagle Project.

According to Troop Four Scoutmaster John Travers, though, each of the five boys have gone above and beyond those requirements.

“They’ve each won bronze, silver, or gold awards which is 5, 10, or 15 additional merit badges beyond the 21,” Travers said. “It’s not just in their service projects, but what they do in their schools, what they do in their churches, what they

PHOTOS/JESSE KUCEWICZ

“I was seven months pregnant, and I did a tap dance number in a full tux,” she recounted.

“The dancing was actually easy; the challenge was getting into the costume. My castmates helped me put on my tap shoes because I literally couldn’t reach my feet at that point.”

Would this labor and delivery nurse advise her patients to tap dance?

“Sure, go for it!” she exclaimed. “You only live once.”

Throughout 10 years, Gulli appeared in most of Regatta’s musicals, including its last, 2019’s “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels.” Pandemic restrictions canceled Regatta’s 2020 show and ultimately closed the theater group.

Shrewsbury Troop 4 celebrates Eagle Scouts at ceremony

Shrewsbury Troop 4 Eagle Scouts receive citations from State Representative Hannah Kane.

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20 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, July 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 Browne, Barbara of Marlborough Browning, Laureen of Marlborough DiBuono, Janet of Marlborough Flanders, Cynthia of Northborough Flahive, Thomas of Westborough Gagliardo, Carol of Shrewsbury Harrington, Gilbert of Shrewsbury Marakoulos, Theodore of Marlborough Mowry, Harriette of Shrewsbury Mugford, Paul of Shrewsbury Mula, Christopher formerly of Marlborough Pepper, Janice of Shrewsbury Pignataro, Mary of Shrewsbury Showalskis, Kurt of Northborough Tarr Dempsey, Jacqueline of Westborough Tingley, Josephine of Westborough

Scan QR code to read all of this week’s obituaries on our website.

“ALSO INCLUDED”

Cynthia D. Flanders, 66 NORTHBOROUGH - Cynthia D. Flanders, 66, passed away in her home on May 29, 2021, after a period of declining health. She was born on Feb. 4, 1955, the daughter to the late Daniel and Lucille (Ballou) Flanders.

She is survived by a brother, Dale E. Flanders of Texas. A son, Adam Flanders, preceded Cynthia in death.

Mary P. Pignataro, 63 SHREWSBURY - Mary P. (Quigley) Pignataro, 63, of Shrewsbury, a devoted wife, mother and friend, passed away on June 17, 2021, surrounded by the ones she loved, after a valiant battle with cancer.

Mary is survived by her husband of 29 years, James; their daughter, Anne Marie Martinez and her husband CJ of Shrewsbury; three siblings, John Quigley, Margaret Farewell and her husband Alan, all of West Boylston, and Cathy Hebert of Portland, Maine; brothers and sisters-in-law, Anthony Pigna-

taro and his wife Amy Beth of New York and Robert and Michael Pignataro of Shrewsbury; and many nieces, nephews and extended family members and friends. Her father and motherin-law, Anthony and Ann Marie Pignataro, and brother-in-law, Robert Hebert, predeceased her.

The Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel of Worcester assisted with arrangements.

Paul S. Mugford, 96 SHREWSBURY - Paul Stanley Mugford, 96, of Shrewsbury, formerly of Westborough, passed peacefully on June 19, 2021 at Shrewsbury Nursing and Rehab.

He is survived by his daughter, Ann Louise Mugford of Keene, N.H. and James W. Mugford of North Grafton. His surviving grandchildren are James W. Mugford of Worcester, Matthew P. Mugford of Westborough, Jonathan M. Mugford of Shrewsbury, Nicole Mugford of San Diego, Calif., and Craig Mugford of Franklin. He is also survived by his sister-inlaw, Jean Mugford, and several nieces and nephews. Paul was preceded in death by his loving wife, Marion R. Mugford, and his son, Alan P Mugford.

The Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.

Thomas F. Flahive, 78 WESTBOROUGH - Thomas F. Flahive, 78, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family, on June 14, 2021 after a long and courageous battle with Mesothelioma.

He leaves his loving wife of 59 years, Eileen (Dunne), and three children, Susan L. DiVita, and her husband Michael of San Jose, Calif., Daniel F. Flahive, and his wife Melissa of Westborough, and Mary S. Manuelian, and her husband Mark of Westborough. He was “Buppa” to seven grandchildren, Benjamin Kosh, Samuel Manuelian, Nicholas, Jessica, Victoria, Carly and Kevin Flahive.

Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.

Josephine F. Tingley, 86 WESTBOROUGH - Josephine F. (Fitzpatrick) Tingley, 86, of Westborough, passed away peacefully on June 22, 2021 at

the UMass Memorial University Hospital in Worcester. She is the beloved wife to the late Ford G. Tingley, who died in 2017.

She is survived by her four children, Sharon Edwards and her husband Lee of Rutland, Shawn Tingley and his wife Simonne of Batavia, Ill., Vincent Tingley and his wife Sally of Natick, and Ellen Foster and her husband Keith of Natick; 10 grandchildren, Lauren, Ryan, Lyndra, Brieanne, Christopher, Brian, Megan, Justin, Emma, and Rachel; two great-grandchildren, Grayson and Maelyn, and one due in late July. She was predeceased by her husband, parents Frank and Bertha (Burke) Fitzpatrick, and a son, Carl Tingley.

The Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.

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).

SUPER CROSSWORD

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COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, July 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 ar e innocent until proven guilty. The Community Advocate will publish news of acquittals upon notification and a copy of court issued documentation.

Scan QR code to read this week’s police and fire news on our website.

Westborough

Tuesday, June 15 5:49 a.m. Endicott Dr. Disturbance (general).

5:59 p.m. Turnpike Rd. Disturbance (general).

7:35 p.m. Computer Dr. Accident – hit & run.

7:44 p.m. Connector Rd. Disturbance (general).

Wednesday, June 16 1:56 p.m. Turnpike Rd. Larceny.

3:40 p.m. Arrested, Luke H. West, 27, of 7 Wyman Ln., Marlborough, on warrant.

Thursday, June 17 3:09 p.m. Turnpike Rd./Lyman St. Disturbance (general).

5:13 p.m. E Main St. Disturbance (general).

5:37 p.m. Milk St. Accident property damage.

8:24 p.m. Turnpike Rd. Disturbance (general).

9:50 p.m. Boardman St. Disturbance (general).

10:53 p.m. Flanders Rd./Fruit St. Accident property damage.

Friday, June 18 8:01 a.m. Brigham St. Accident property damage.

2:24 p.m. Turnpike Rd. Larceny.

3:46 p.m. E Main St. Disturbance (general).

3:50 p.m. Flanders Rd. Threats made.

4:52 p.m. Oak St. Disturbance (general).

5:00 p.m. E Main St. Accident property damage.

Saturday, June 19 8:20 a.m. Turnpike Rd. Larceny.

Sunday, June 20 5:15 p.m. E Main St. Threats made.

9:12 p.m. Cross St. Disturbance (general).

Monday, June 21 12:38 p.m. Water St. Vandalism.

4:57 p.m. Milk/Oak Sts. Accident property damage.

9:14 p.m. W Main St. Disturbance (general).

Tuesday, June 22 3:45 a.m. Arrested, Rosa Isela Patino, 29, of 29 Cross St., Marlborough, on warrant, and Luis Armendo Acevedo, 27, of 20 Helen Dr., Marlborough, for possess Class B drug.

9:46 a.m. Myrtle St. Vandalism.

11:51 a.m. Oak St. Accident property damage.

Shrewsbury

8:12 p.m. Greenbriar Dr. Animal complaint.

8:25 p.m. Lake/Elaine Sts. Disturbance.

Monday, June 21 10:03 a.m. Walnut St. Preserve the peace.

10:43 a.m. Saybrook Rd. Animal complaint.

1:10 p.m. Oak St. Road hazard – trees/ wires/debris.

1:17 p.m. Parmenter Hill Rd. Animal complaint.

3:21 p.m. Hartford Tpke./Lake St. Road hazard – trees/wires/debris.

3:49 p.m. South Quinsigamond. Harassment.

8:00 p.m. Eastern Point Dr. Disturbance.

8:22 p.m. Boston Tpke. Vandalism.

Tuesday, June 22 8:18 a.m. North St. Animal complaint.

9:01 a.m. North Quinsigamond. Disturbance.

10:18 a.m. Rockwell Dr. Animal complaint.

1:02 p.m. Boston Tpke. Larceny.

1:55 p.m. Main St. Animal complaint.

2:07 p.m. Hillside Dr./Howe Ave. Animal complaint.

3:44 p.m. Maple Ave. Larceny attempt.

Wednesday, June 23 12:14 a.m. Boston Tpke. Disturbance.

1:03 a.m. Main St. Assaults.

4:32 a.m. Winslow St. Disturbance.

7:26 a.m. Jacobson Dr. Disturbance.

8:27 a.m. Green St./Hartford Tpke. Road hazard – trees/wires/debris.

10:24 a.m. Whippoorwill Dr. Identity theft.

2:07 p.m. Main St. Trespassing.

2:23 p.m. Hill St. Animal complaint.

6:55 p.m. Arrested, Joseph M. Pavao, 39, of 18 Ekman St., Apt. 1, Worcester,

for possession Class E substance, possession Class B substance, possession Class A substance, receive stolen property - $1200.

Thursday, June 24 2:07 a.m. Boston Tpke. Disturbance.

9:25 a.m. Waterville Ln. Identity theft.

12:30 p.m. Hartford Tpke. Road hazard – trees/wires/debris.

1:55 p.m. Providence Rd. Animal complaint.

3:13 p.m. Boston Tpke. Disturbance.

3:49 p.m. Arrested, Andrew Marti, 30, of 14 Holly St., Oxford, on warrant.

Northborough

Friday, June 18 1:45 p.m. Arrested, Godwin Vincent Effiong, 31, of 475 Boston Tpke., Apt. 5, Shrewsbury, on warrant.

1:53 p.m. Riley Rd. Fraud.

5:00 p.m. Main St. Keep the peace.

6:27 p.m. South St. Keep the peace.

9:45 p.m. Milk Porridge Cir. Disturbance.

11:38 p.m. Blueberry Ln. Disturbance.

Saturday, June 19 5:23 p.m. Overlook Dr. Fraud.

Sunday, June 20 2:42 p.m. Westbrook Rd. Keep the peace.

7:53 p.m. Woodstone Rd./Ball St. Dog complaint.

8:25 p.m. River/Main Sts. Dog complaint.

Monday, June 21 1:46 a.m. Econolodge. Disturbance.

8:55 a.m. Lincoln/West Main Sts. Accident: P.D. 10:02 a.m. Otis St. Dog complaint.

10:15 p.m. Church St. Dog complaint.

Tuesday, June 22 9:34 a.m. Belmont St. Larceny

Thursday, June 17 8:08 a.m. Yorkshire Terr. Harassment.

9:23 a.m. Clinton St. Illegal dumping.

11:32 a.m. Holden St. B&E motor vehicle.

12:57 p.m. Vega Dr. Animal complaint.

2:36 p.m. Main St. B&E motor vehicle.

3:42 p.m. Boston Tpke. B&E commercial.

6:21 p.m. South St. Animal complaint.

8:22 p.m. Althea Path. Harassment.

Friday, June 18 1:37 a.m. Harrington Ave. Disturbance.

6:08 a.m. Taft Rd. B&E motor vehicle.

6:10 a.m. Taft Rd. B&E motor vehicle.

7:04 a.m. Taft Rd. B&E motor vehicle.

9:57 a.m. Boston Tpke. Threats.

10:49 a.m. Wesleyan Terr. B&E motor vehicle.

10:52 a.m. Main St. Larceny.

12:54 p.m. Municipal Dr. Disturbance.

3:10 p.m. Memorial Dr. Dispute.

4:13 p.m. Main St. B&E motor vehicle.

10:16 p.m. Checkerberry Ln. Animal WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL complaint.

A wisdom tooth or third molar can become trapped under the gums and become infected or damage the other teeth. We have performed Saturday, June 19 thousands of wisdom tooth extractions. It takes less than an hour and WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL 12:49 a.m.

Bryant Ave. Disturbance. can be done right in our offices. Before removing a wisdom tooth, we'll A wisdom tooth or third molar can become trapped under the gums and evaluate them and answer all of your questions.

1:58 a.m.become Edgewater Ave. Disturbance. infected or damage the other teeth. We have performed 10:51 a.m.

KendaofRd. Harassment.

DENTAL IMPLANTOLOGY thousands wisdom tooth extractions. It takes less than an hour and Dental implants are the most innovative area in 5:15 p.m.

Dis-removing a wisdom tooth, we'll can South be done Quinsigamond. right in our offices. Before dentistry today. Spaces from missing teeth can be turbance.evaluate them and answer all of your questions. John P. Ouano, D.M.D. | Waelfixed using dental implants - titanium Youseff, D.M.D. | "anchors" Jennifer Frangos, that are used to substitute tooth roots to support a 8:07 p.m.DENTAL Arrested,IMPLANTOLOGY Marcus G. Bino, 34, dental crown or bridge. With implants, you can talk, of 18 Lakewood St., Apt. 2L,most Worcester, WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL Dental implants are the innovative area in eat and laugh like you did with your natural teeth."

A wisdom tooth orneg third operamolar can become trapped under the gums and for boat dentistry OUI-liquor orSpaces .08%, today. from missing teeth can be become infected or damage the other teeth. We have performed fixed using dental implants - titanium "anchors" tion/endanger, failthousands to follow rules of road/ of wisdom tooth extractions.

It takes less than an hour and that are used tooth roots toBefore support a a wisdom tooth, we'll cantobesubstitute done right in our offices. removing waterway. dental crown or bridge. implants, talk, evaluate them With and answer all ofyou yourcan questions.

9:46 p.m.

Arrested, Andrew Joseph eat and laugh like you did with your natural teeth."

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5:56 a.m. Worthington/Power Aves. Road MILFORD 113 Water Street | 508-473-7900 hazard – trees/wires/debris.

FRAMINGHAM 223 Walnut Street, Suite 2 | 508-879-8004 12:57 p.m. Boston Tpke. Disturbance.

1:27 p.m. Reservoir St. Animal complaint.

4:05 p.m. Point Rd. Identity theft.

10:00 a.m. Dennis Cir. Accident: P.D. 11:32 a.m. Longfellow Rd. Animal calls.

11:34 a.m. Avalon Dr. Vandalism.

Grafton

Sunday, June 13 12:03 p.m. Upton St. Animal complaint.

1:37 p.m. Carroll Rd. Accident – personal injury.

2:26 p.m. Carroll Rd. Road hazard.

Monday, June 14 7:31 p.m. Oak St. Wires down.

11:01 p.m. Hudson Ave. Traffic hazard.

Tuesday, June 15 1:06 p.m. N Brigham Hill Rd. Wires down.

Wednesday, June 16 8:07 a.m. Providence Rd. Disturbance – general.

12:38 p.m. Flint Pond Dr. Scam/attempted scam.

1:59 p.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/identity theft.

6:42 p.m. Barbara Jean St. Wires down.

7:44 p.m. Providence Rd. Animal complaint.

Thursday, June 17 8:55 a.m. Bruce St. Traffic hazard.

2:42 p.m. Old Upton Rd. Fraud/identity theft.

3:38 p.m. Providence Rd. Fraud/identity theft.

4:55 p.m. Providence Rd. B&E into vehicle.

7:22 p.m. Worcester St. Accident – personal injury.

Friday, June 18 2:40 p.m. Worcester St. Vandalism.

4:00 p.m. Millbury St. Accident – personal injury.

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22 • COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, July 2, 2021

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5 Home Projects to Enjoy Your Outdoor Space all Year Round Written By Cristina Miguelez

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or the last several years, homeowners have been putting a priority on creating outdoor living spaces for their homes. This has led to an increase in the building of outdoor spaces such as decks and patios.

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Having these kinds of spaces isn’t always enough, however, if you aren’t able to use the space year-round.

Many homeowners wanting to invest in their outdoor living area may end up putting it off, simply because they don’t believe it will get enough use to be viable.

That’s why adding some features to an outdoor living space that can extend its use makes sense; it adds value to the area and increases homeowner use and enjoyment.

The following five projects are designed to help make an existing outdoor space more usable any time of the year: Fire Pit or Outdoor Fireplace Fire pits and outdoor fireplaces make great focal points for any outdoor living space.

They create a gathering point and allow you to extend the use of the space into the evening hours, as well as into the colder months of the year with the heat and light they provide.

Both features can add a lot of use and function to the area, but they are different in terms of operation and cost. A fire pit averages

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around $700 for a built-in model or about $100 for a movable version. With a fire pit, you can gather around it on all sides, so it typically sits in the middle of your patio, meaning it can be in the way when not in use.

An outdoor fireplace can be more expensive, averaging $5,000 - $10,000 for a readymade insert. You can only gather in front of it, so it’s a little less versatile, but it’s also tucked out of the way, so you aren’t using up valuable real estate on the patio. They make good additions to spaces that have other built-in features like outdoor kitchens, because you can typically add on in style easily.

Hot Tub

Hot tubs can be used in all kinds of weather and temperatures, including during the snow. This makes them a great addition to outdoor spaces where a pool might not get a lot of use, but a water feature could be attractive.

Hot tubs come in all shapes and sizes including, ones that can be placed on a deck or patio, in-ground models, and even some that can double as an endless exercise pool. Because of these many choices, there are a range of associated costs. The average hot tub installation runs around $6,925 for one that seats four people.

Keep in mind that many hot tubs are heavy, so if you want it on the deck, you may need to have it inspected to ensure it can handle the weight, since there are many factors that determine whether a deck can handle the additional load.

Hot tubs can be located alongside pools or on patios easily, though, so even if the deck isn’t the best place to install one, it’s possible to find a good location elsewhere.

Sunroom Sunrooms blur the line between indoor and outdoor spaces. They can be three-season rooms with walls made of screens or four-season spaces with highly insulated windows. Regardless of type, they can usually be designed to create wide-open views making you feel like you’re outdoors even when you aren’t.

Sunroom additions have an ROI just shy of 60%, meaning they can add value to the home, as well as recreation and enjoyment. Sunrooms cost between $35,000 and $55,000 for a three-season room with fans and outlets. Costs increase as you winterize and create a more year-round space, with most four-season sunrooms topping out around $60,000 to $90,000. This is mostly due to the amount of insulation and tightly fitting windows required for the space.

Add Good Lighting Good lighting is important year-round, particularly when you want to extend the use of your outdoor space into the evening hours. During winter months, when days are shorter, this becomes even more important to the use of the space. Installing good landscape lighting to your patio, deck, or pool area can help make the space more functional as well as inviting to guests when entertaining.

Outdoor lighting should ideally be customized to the space you’re using. For example, if you have walking paths, you’ll want to ensure they’re well lit, while patios and decks may need additional lighting near seating and doorways to ensure the space is safe and functional.

Outdoor lighting can therefore have a wide range of associated costs, averaging

around $3,800 for 20 outdoor fixtures.

Consider an Awning Most people associate awnings with creating shade on a hot day, but they have year-round use as well. Awnings can offer protection from the elements, which can help keep snow and ice off decks and patios, extending the amount of time they can be used and reducing the amount of time you’d have to shovel out an outdoor area on a nice winter’s day.

Not all awnings are going to work well for this; cloth awnings and those designed solely for providing shade may not offer the protection you need. Consider aluminum awnings or adding a custom attached pergola with a solid roof above your patio.

A metal awning installation can run as low as $600 to $1,000, while an attached pergola with a roof averages around $3,000 to $6,000.

Get More from Your Outdoor Living Spaces Outdoor living is becoming more important not only to homeowners, but also their properties. And the more versatile the space is, the more use it will get. Add any of these projects to your existing outdoor space to increase its value and the amount of use that the area will get and start expecting more from outdoor living.

Our present market is experiencing an unprecedented shortage of inventory. If you are thinking of selling your home in the next 12 months now is the time to get started… call me today. 508-735-5161.

My extensive knowledge and expert guidance will enable you to achieve all of your real estate goals. Elaine.Quigley@commonmoves.com A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC.

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE • Friday, July 2, 2021 • 23

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Public Notice CITATION GIVING NOTICE OF PETITION FOR APPOINTMENT OF GUARDIAN FOR INCAPACITATED PERSON PURSUANT TO G.L. c. 190B, Section 5-304

Docket No. SU21P1270GD Commonwealth of Massachusetts The Trial Court Probate and Family Court Suffolk Probate and Family Court 24 New Chardon Street, Boston, MA 02114 In the matter of: Damon Beasley Of: Boston, MA RESPONDENT Alleged Incapacitated Person To the named Respondent and all other interested persons, a petition has been filed by DMH of Westborough, MA in the above captioned matter alleging that Damon Beasley is in need of a Guardian and requesting that (or some other suitable person) be appointed as Guardian to serve on the bond.

The petition asks the court to determine that the Respondent is incapacitated, that the appointment of a Guardian is necessary, and that the proposed Guardian is appropriate. The petition is on file with this court and may contain a request for certain specific authority.

You have the right to object to this proceeding. If you wish to do so, you or your attorney must file a written appearance at this court on or before 10:00 AM on the return date of 07/22/2021. This day is NOT a hearing date, but a deadline date by which you have to file the written appearance if you object to the petition. If you fail to file the written appearance by the return date, action may be taken in this matter without further notice to you. In addition to filing the written appearance, you or your attorney must file a written affidavit stating the specific facts and grounds of your objection within 30 days after the return date.

IMPORTANT NOTICE The outcome of this proceeding may limit or completely take away the above-named person’s right to make decisions about personal affairs or financial affairs or both. The above-named person has the right to ask for a lawyer. Anyone may make this request on behalf of the above-named person. If the abovenamed person cannot afford a lawyer, one may be appointed at State expense.

WITNESS, Hon. Brian J. Dunn, First Justice of this Court.

Date: June 14, 2021 Felix D. Arroyo, Register of Probate

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