CA 210924

Families wrestle with impacts of fatal Northborough fire

Residents concerned about ARHS mascot selection process

Schools | 12 NEWS | 3

Westborough police chief, deputy chief discuss understaffing

By Stuart Foster Contributing Writer

WESTBOROUGH - Understaffing issues continue in Westborough as the Police Department is not on track to meet a recommended hiring benchmark initially proposed in 2019, Deputy Chief Todd Minardi told the Select Board, Sept. 14.

Joined in his presentation by Chief Jeffery Lourie, Minardi referred to a staffing study conducted by Municipal Resources Inc. at the request of the Westborough Police in 2018. When WPD presented their findings in Jan. 2019, Minardi said, they recommended hiring five patrol positions immediately and adding a total of 15 by 2024.

“We are not close to that,” Minardi said. “We started with two. The following year we did two, and then we did one. We’re not going to reach 15 by 2024, we understand that. That’s just the nature of where we’re at.”

Understaffing limits ability to be ‘proactive,’ deputy chief says Minardi said that, as a result of understaffing, the Westborough Police have a day shift that is one officer short. Some other shifts are regularly at their minimum staffing threshold. There is generally a lack of station coverage, he said.

Minardi said that this can result in officers being

Police staffing | 7

buy believe CommunityAdvocate

Applefest celebration returns

Doing our part to support local business.

NORTHBOROUGH - Applefest returned to Northborough this past weekend with a full slate of inperson events in multiple locations across town.

A year after the festivities were transitioned to a virtual format due to COVID-19, and two years after the outbreak of EEE forced changes to 2019’s Applefest, this year’s schedule featured old favorite attractions as well as new events and plans.

Local business owner and longtime selectman Dawn Rand served as the event’s Grand Marshal alongside Former Police Chief Kenneth Hutchins, who served as honorary Grand Marshal after passing away earlier this year.

See coverage on page 11...

Top 4 ercises To Fix

PHOTOS/ED KARVOSKI JR.

Attendees bring their own lawn chairs to view this year’s Applefest fireworks display in Northborough.

Narzwen watches her daughter Emily, 4, get a temporary glitter tattoo from a student of Diane Cournoyer Dance Center.

To our over 42,000 patients in the Westborough area, we say “welcome home.”

You have spoken.

You want your Mass General Brigham primary care, nationally recognized leaders in behavioral health— and many services you come to Boston for— but you want them close to home. Health care centers are living proof of our commitment to base every decision we make on what’s best for our patients, including more than 42,000 of our patients who live in the Westborough area. The right care in the right place at the right cost. Welcome home. Learn more at MassGeneralBrighamIntegratedCare.org.

OVER TOP THE

Dean Park flagpole

SHREWSBURY - A prominent flagpole stands in Shrewsbury’s Dean Park alongside a bench dedicated to longtime Parks Department employee Paula Rourke. A new GoFundMe campaign is seeking to raise money to fund a redesign of the flagpole area to add and/or relocate additional benches recognizing the contributions of a number of other longtime town employees. Learn more at https://gofund.me/8980242d.

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.

Families wrestle with impacts of fatal Northborough fire

Mike Pizzarella stands in front of the hotel where his family is staying following a major fire in the building where they had been living.

By Laura Hayes Senior Community Reporter

NORTHBOROUGH - Mike Pizzarella was starting to drift to a deep sleep when he heard banging on his windows.

It was his neighbor, Lisa, yelling that there was a fire.

Mike had gone to sleep at about 10 p.m. His significant other, Erin, stayed up later, working on homework for online classes.

Mike woke up briefly around 4 a.m. He had turned the TV off and rolled over when Lisa woke him up once again.

nity Advocate. “I was thinking maybe a stove was on fire.”

Mike was in a daze as he and Erin exited their apartment at 129 Maple St. That’s when he noticed a strange smell and looked up to see flames roaring out of the windows of one of the building’s second-floor units.

Erin screamed. Her laptop with all of her homework was still inside. Mike ran back in and grabbed it.

“That’s all I grabbed was that one thing,” Mike said.

Lisa realized they didn’t wake up their neighbor. So, Mike barged through his screen door, yelling there was a fire.

The neighbor, who Mike said is a veteran and uses a walker, woke up.

“I said, ‘No, this is a serious fire. You need to get out now,’” Mike said.

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“At first, it seemed more like an overreaction,” Mike said in a recent interview with the Commu- Northborough fire | 15

Ryan Maloney, owner

Malbec

Malbec is a red wine that is appealing due to its affordability and fruity flavor. Although Malbec originated in the Bordeaux region and has been used as a blending grape in France for over a century, it is the Argentinian version that most people are familiar with, making it the country’s signature red wine.

Malbec thrives in Argentina’s hot climate. Its dry, full-bodied flavor and moderate alcohol content ensures it pairs well with smoky meats, grilled vegetables, duck, and lamb, as well as with cheeses such as Stilton, aged cheddar, and Gouda. Surprisingly, it can also work with a rich dessert like cheesecake. Malbec is best served between 60-68ºF degrees Fahrenheit and should be decanted 30 minutes prior to serving.

If you don’t have a wine refrigerator, put your bottle of Malbec in the regular refrigerator (which is usually set to around 35 degrees) and leave it there for about 30 minutes. When you need a great bottle of wine, stop by J ULIO’S LIQUORS at 140 Turnpike Rd., Rt. 9 East. We carry an extensive selection of wines from all over the world. We also host seminars, formal tastings and wine festivals which cater to every level of wine consumer. For more information, please call 508-366-1942

HINT: Malbec wines often don’t need extensive oak-aging, with affordable varieties aging 4-6 months and highend for 18-20 months.

Mike continues to thank Lisa

TASTINGS! IN STORE

OCT 8 @ 7 PM Greenvale Farm & Vineyards

Here’s a great way to start our favorite season with wines from New England!! Come meet Winemaker, Billy Wilson, from Greenvale Vineyards of Rhode Island. The tasting is live, but you can also follow along on Facebook Live!

DON’T MISS OUR AD ON PAGE 7

PHOTO/TAMI WHITE

PHOTOS/LAURA HAYES

To the Northborough/ Southborough School Committee, ARHS Mascot Renaming Committee and ARHS Community:

pathy, and I am supportive. I appreciate this statement from the mascot study group:

letters to the editor

With 2 sons at the high school, I have followed the mascot issue fairly closely. I feel strongly that this mascot change is an exercise in em-

“The Group is confident that the process of choosing a new mascot will serve to unify Algonquin students and families...”

I became concerned when an email from Keith Lavoie dated August 18th disclosed that Heard Strategies, an outside marketing firm previously not mentioned, was brought in to give an opinion on the results of the mascot survey. Remarkably, Heard Strategies only approved 8 of the top 20 responses, none of the top three, with no explanation given to the community. When were they given a seat on the committee? Who made that decision? Even if their opinion is not binding, I feel that giving Heard a seat on the committee as a mascot expert compromises the integrity of the committee’s decision.

We in favor of mascot change should recognize that this has been a closed decision process. A plurality of survey responses supported keeping the tomahawk. Notably, the survey was sent after the decision was made

to retire the tomahawk. A grieving process will accompany this change. As the committee so aptly quoted Maulian Dana from her 2019 Ted Talk, “If we tell you something hurts, you don’t get to decide it doesn’t.”

The committee has frequently used this quote by Zaretta Hammond, “Culturally responsive teaching means reflecting and being willing to listen and change in order to respond positively and constructively.” Are you willing to listen to the community response and change accordingly? If unity is the goal, open up the renaming conversation to the community. Provide us your research materials on each option before they are voted on, and allow for another community vote. Slow down! Let’s compromise like the school district in Washington that retired their mascot, “Chinook” replacing it with a chinook salmon. The actions you take, or do not take, at this point will determine whether this mascot will unify this community.

Respectfully, Elisa

Beckman

SHREWSBURY - A presentation on the life of one of the most significant figures in American history will take place during the Friends of Shrewsbury Public Library annual fall meeting and program.

Actor Kathryn Woods will portray abolitionist and women’s rights activist Sojourner Truth as she was at the end of her life.

The program will be held virtually on Wednesday, Oct. 6. The board is scheduled to hold their meeting at 6:30, with the performance beginning at 7 p.m.

Woods, as Truth, will recall her early days as a slave as well as her relationship with God. She will share stories from Truth’s long life.

Woods has performed with TheatreWorks, People’s Theatre, the Wheelock Family Theatre and the Underground Railway Theatre. The performance is open to all. To register, visit: https://tinyurl. com/5zm3nmt2 or call the library at 508-841-8609 ext. 3.

WESTBOROUGH - The Town of Westborough has honored Cela Dorr as its August 2021 Employee of the Month.

Dorr is the Confidential Administrative Assistant in the Town Manager and Select Board offices.

She is also a Contributing Writer for the Community Advocate.

Dorr “hit the ground running” as a full-time employee during a period of upheaval, helping in some areas that were outside of her job, according to a press release.

“She personifies a ‘can-do’ willingness to jump in and lend a hand — regardless of how difficult a situation may be,” that press release continued.

The press release noted that Dorr’s background in education has been an asset during her departments’ interactions with the school department.

“Beneath the jovial personality, Cela is a serious, hard worker — kind and considerate and consistently embodies a sympathetic respect for the feelings of others,” the press release said.

Kathryn Woods will portray Sojourner Truth in a program to be held virtually next month.

Shrewsbury approves agreement with marijuana delivery operator

By Laura Hayes Senior Community Reporter

SHREWSBURY - A marijuana delivery operator is now one step closer to opening in Shrewsbury following a Board of Selectmen vote, Sept. 14, to approve a host community agreement.

The agreement passed by a 3-1 margin, with Selectman Maurice DePalo voting against it. Vice Chair John Lebeaux was not present.

DePalo notes commitment to permit two dispensaries in Shrewsbury

Many Rivers LLC first appeared before the Shrewsbury selectmen during their Aug. 10 meeting.

At that time, a Many Rivers representative said they were interested in opening at a site at 299 Hartford Turnpike. Many Rivers would purchase products from licensed marijuana establishments, warehouse the products, accept orders online and deliver orders.

“I’m not comfortable with it,” DePalo said Sept. 14. “I’m not sure this is something that I want to see the town do. I don’t think it would make a difference who it was.”

He later explained that he felt approval of this agreement would violate the spirit of communications to town residents following marijuana’s legalization in Massachusetts in 2016. Shrewsbury would only be able to permit two dispensaries, DePalo noted.

“I know this is something a little different; it’s home delivery, but it’s still another dispensary in a sense,” DePalo said.

He said he understood the ben-

Forrest Memorial Road Race to take place Sept. 26

MARLBOROUGH - The 37th annual Forrest Memorial Road Race will start and finish at the Wayside Athletic Club in Marlborough on Sunday, Sept. 26 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Held in memory of longtime community leader Jim Forrest, the event has options for a 5k run or walk and a 1.7-mile walk or wheel. There will be a post-race barbecue with music and awards.

The event is hosted by Thrive Support & Advocacy, which works to empower youth and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout the region.

Proceeds benefit recreational experiences and sports teams participating in the Special Olympics.

Pre-event registration is $25 and includes a race T-shirt. Sameday registration is $30. For more information on how to sponsor, donate or register for the race, visit https://www.icanthrive.org/event/ forrest-memorial/.

efits of Many Rivers.

“But, I thought we were pretty clear we’d only have two,” DePalo said.

Delivery discussions part of larger debate over marijuana in Shrewsbury

The debate on recreational marijuana has continued in Shrewsbury over several years since the town votes against the state-wide, 2016 ballot question that ultimately legalized the product in Massachusetts.

In 2018, Shrewsbury considered joining a growing list of communities that had already banned recreational dispensaries within their town or city lines. But voters ultimately rejected that ban at Town Meeting.

More recently, on Sept. 14, Selectman Beth Casavant said that, when the Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) began discussing delivery licenses, the Board of Selectmen sent a letter saying it felt like the rules were changing.

“It seemed like we did all that work,” Casavant said. “We went through this whole exercise as a town and as a Town Meeting. We made a decision, and then the CCC sort of changed the rules on

us without allowing us any real recourse.”

‘Delivery is everywhere’

Though she raised concerns about the CCC’s process, Casavant said she was comfortable with the agreement with Many Rivers, adding that it was consistent with Shrewsbury’s other host commu-

nity agreements.

“I think that delivery is everywhere, and if it isn’t here in Shrewsbury, these guys are going to pack up and head to the next town that’s geographically convenient and set up there,” Casavant said.

Town Manager Kevin Mizikar said the agreement provides Shrewsbury with the full three-per-

cent host community fee allowed on these types of agreements. He said the agreement also includes safety provisions to ensure that Many Rivers expeditiously moved through the Cannabis Control Commission process.

Shrewsbury already has two retail recreational marijuana establishments in town.

OSHA to ramp up enforcement measures following deaths

By Dakota Antelman Managing Editor

REGION - Federal regulators took action to improve worker safety in tree and landscaping operations, last week, just a matter of days after a man was fatally electrocuted while working near power lines in Northborough.

A statement from the US Department of Labor announced on Sept. 14 that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s Boston office had rolled out new enforcement and outreach efforts through a new “regional emphasis program.”

“The number of fatalities, injuries and uncontrolled hazards in

28 years in Business!

tape while investigating the death of a landscape contractor in Northborough.

the tree and landscaping industries in New England is alarming and unacceptable,” said OSHA Acting Regional Administrator Jeffrey Erskine in a press release.

“These incidents are preventable with proper training and effective safety procedures.”

The statement did not directly address the Northborough incident, in which Joel Andrew Boulay Jr., 25, was killed after he came in contact with a high powered line. Instead, it more broadly noted at least 31 worker deaths in New England since 2016. The statement said OSHA inspectors had identified a number of injuries and deaths caused by everything from falls, to electrocution.

This new emphasis program will begin with outreach to employees, workers and stakeholders before beginning enforcement in November.

They do count for something, all those little caring moments. They do add up.

The big generous experiences may be important in our lives, but it is the accumulation of the little, almost forgotten moments that shape us.

In order to learn from joy we need to recognize and honor it as it comes to us.

We also need to teach ourselves to notice the many places it already exists in our life.

An OSHA investigator ducks under a line of caution

PHOTO/LAURA HAYES

Westborough weighs opting into Community Preservation Act

By Stuart Foster

Contributing Writer

WESTBOROUGH - Members of the Westborough Community Preservation Act Exploratory Committee discussed the possibility of the town becoming a Community Preservation Act (CPA) community at an Advisory Finance Committee meeting on Sept. 9.

The CPA is a Massachusetts state law that allows municipalities to apply a surcharge on real estate taxes. That surcharge is then matched by state funds. That money goes into an account to be used on projects relating to open space, affordable housing or historic preservation.

“Our committee has kind of been looking for an affordable number, so we have been trying to keep the impact to homeowners to around $50 a year from the surcharge,” said Exploratory Committee Chair Jenn Doherty. “That would put us at about a 0.5 percent surcharge that we would adopt.”

Doherty said that the process would be managed by a local Community Preservation Committee (CPC) appointed by the Select Board. The CPC would take in applications each year which would then require approval at Town Meeting.

Historian, town activist and Exploratory Committee member Kristina Nilson Allen said that Westborough should join the CPA because the town is not currently receiving any benefits from the CPA while its neighbors, including Southborough, Northborough and Shrewsbury all receive money from it.

Hudson, Hopkinton and Upton have all also opted in, joining a long list of communities across the state participat-

ing in the CPA.

“Westborough residents are paying into the state funds, but they are not getting any benefits from it at all,” Allen said.

Allen praised the values of the CPA, saying that affordable housing, open space and historic preservation are often overlooked in local budgeting despite their importance.

Particularly, Allen said that the Westborough Open Space Preservation Committee has no money remaining in its budget, while historic preservation doesn’t receive funds.

The CPA, Allen said, could fund projects like a historic trail in Westborough.

“How do we fund something that we really care about historically? Well, it’s going to be low on your list probably,

but under Community Preservation Act, important things would be funded,” Allen said.

Select Board member Shelby Marshall said that the town’s master plan addresses many areas that overlap with the priorities of the CPA.

Marshall said she appreciated that the CPA creates managed funding sources specifically allocated to the areas designated by the law.

“There is a process around it, it is structured, and it is aligned with the values and the amenities and the desires and hopes and dreams of those that are here in Westborough,” Marshall said.

Additionally, Marshall said the law provides certain exemptions for taxpayers who cannot afford to contribute to the fund. She praised it as a thoughtful process.

The exploratory committee met with the Select Board earlier this year to present a progress report on its work. Committee members laid out much of the information they

then discussed in this most recent discussion with the Advisory Finance Committee.

They then charted a path forward that would include numerous additional meetings over the coming months seeking input from boards and committees like the Advisory Finance Committee.

The exploratory committee has at least two more meetings scheduled for late September and early October as of Sept. 9, according to Marshall. Feedback from other boards and committees had, so far, been positive, she continued.

After the exploratory committee wraps up its input sessions, it will eventually go back before the Select Board to make a formal recommendation.

In order to opt into the CPA, Westborough voters would then have to approve a measure at Town Meeting. That would trigger a ballot question to be decided at the next municipal or state election. A majority vote at that point would formally adopt the CPA.

“ Westborough residents are paying into the state funds, but they are not getting any benefits from it at all.

Kristina Nilson Allen Exploratory Committee member

Westborough police chief, deputy chief discuss understaffing

Police staffing | from page 1 called in for overtime at the last minute.

More patrol positions, Minardi added, are necessary to proactively target crime in Westborough.

“We have eight hotels in this community,” Minardi said. “I hate to say it, but there is human trafficking taking place in this town. There is drug dealing taking place in this town.”

“We need to do more proactive police work, and we just can’t do that with the staffing level that we have,” Lourie said.

Lourie noted that, just hours earlier on Sept. 14, WPD had made an arrest after an intoxicated person was involved in an accident.

Because the WPD was at minimum staffing, Lourie said they had to order someone from the day shift to stay late and watch the arrested individual.

Increased call volume heightens burden on police force

Minardi said that this understaffing is coming at a time of increased incident reports. There is a projected 55.6 percent increase in such incidents from 2018 to 2021, along with a projected 144 percent increase in arrests.

Minardi said the WPD have submitted a proposal for American Rescue Plan funding to help improve the staffing situation. The proposal would add three new patrol positions, as well as a hybrid police cruiser. Police had asked for these positions in budget discussions for fiscal year (FY) 2021 as well as FY 2022.

Those were cut, though, as those budgets took shape.

Such additions would increase Westborough’s patrol staffing to 30 officers. That would mark an increase of eight officers on staff since Municipal Resources Inc. issued its request. It would still fall short of the recommendation, however, which suggested having 33 patrol officers by 2022.

‘There’s no one there after the day shift’

Lourie reiterated the need to increase staffing, saying that he regrets times when the Westborough police station itself is “dark.”

“If you’re a citizen and you need help and you need someone in that station to help you, there’s no one there after the

day shift,” he said. “That’s just wrong.”

Through all this, though, Lourie and Minardi said they recognized how the pandemic, in particular, has thrown a wrench

First:

in long-term budgetary plans across Westborough’s municipal departments.

“We understand that we are one department in the town,” Minardi said. “There’s a lot of other departments. There’s a lot of other needs. And we really want everyone to understand that we do take that into consideration.”

The effort to address these problems in the context of the pandemic and other challenges facing the town is ongoing, officials noted.

“There’s a need and we’re trying to be clear in how we might go about fulfilling that need,” said Town Manager Kristi Williams.

The Westborough Police Department is based in the Forbes Municipal Building in town.

PHOTO/DAKOTA ANTELMAN

New YMCA Wellness Director reflects on career, eyes future

By Susan Olsen Orpilla Contributing Writer

WESTBOROUGH - In August, the Boroughs Family Branch YMCA proudly announced the appointment of their new Wellness Director, Bryan Dearnley.

It’s the dream job he’s been diligently working toward for the past several years, and perhaps his whole life.

“The YMCA has been a huge part of my family’s life for many years, and I’m grateful that I get to be a part of those experiences for others at the Boroughs Branch,” Dearnley said in a recent interview with the Community Advocate.

Teenage health scare prompts new focus on fitness, nutrition

Growing up in Charlton, Dearnley has many fond memories with his family at the TriCommunity Family Branch YMCA in Southbridge, where his life-long passion for health and fitness began.

He remembers enjoying

summer camps, taking martial arts lessons and learning how to swim. His father first started teaching him the proper use of fitness equipment around age 12. They had a routine of working out together twice a week while his brother, Troy, trained and competed as a swimmer for the in-house Special Olympics team.

At 17, Dearnley was diagnosed as pre-diabetic, a catalyst that made him get more serious

about his own health.

After three months of gym and nutrition dedication, he was no longer at risk.

Path to health, fitness career started in family business

Right after high school, Dearnley began working at S & D Spinning Mill in Millbury, a business started by his grandfather and currently run by his father.

“When I realized that taking

over the family business wasn’t my passion, I began thinking about my passion for helping people through fitness,” Dearnley said.

Preparation for his new career started at the National Personal Training Institute, which Dearnley graduated from in 2014.

Then, Dearnley dove into the field by becoming a personal trainer, group exercise instructor, personal training director and general manager. He eventually managed multiple clubs.

However, in an industry that is constantly changing, Dearnley continued pursuing more health and wellness education.

In May, he achieved his certification as a wellness coach, gaining skills in understanding the psychology of how people view and handle their own health and wellness as well as behavior modification. He is currently enrolled in a nutrition learning program in hopes of passing the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching exam next year.

Plans to build on YMCA offerings take shape Dearnley is happy to join the team at the Boroughs Family Branch YMCA.

“Members are valued as people and not dollar signs here,” he said. “I work with great staff, and we are happy to come to work because we know we are helping people every day.”

Dearnley said he considers the Boroughs Branch one of the most beautiful and wellequipped facilities in all of New England, with its long list of amenities.

Working in this environment, Dearnley has many ideas to improve programs for the overall wellness of individuals.

“As a trainer, I’ve always known that there is much more to overall wellness than just the fitness side,” he said. “Sometimes personal training fails when the person as a whole isn’t considered or involved.” YMCA | 9

PHOTO/LAURA HAYES

New YMCA Wellness reflects on career, eyes future

YMCA | from page 8

As the new Wellness Director, Dearnley is educating his staff to become more than typical gym trainers. He is working on getting systems in place for members to have access to nutritional guidance, health coaching and an overall wellness plan to reach their health goals.

He also intends to create

fun wellness challenges, hold educational seminars, and take offsite trips such as trips to read nutrition labels at a grocery store.

The Boroughs Family Branch YMCA is located at 4 Valente Dr. in Westborough. Learn more by visiting https://www.ymcaofcm.org/ locations/boroughs-familybranch/

Aging Gracefully

by MariAnn Paladino, Dir. of Admissions, Notre Dame Long Term Care

WHY YOU SHOULD CONSIDER SEEING A GERIATRICIAN

Becoming attached to your doctor is common and understandable, especially if you’ve spent years building a trusting and friendly professional relationship. However, different stages of life require different medical knowledge, and switching to a geriatrician, a doctor specializing in treating and diagnosing conditions that affect older adults, can be extremely beneficial. Geriatricians are specially trained in diagnosing illnesses such as dementia, osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, depression, heart failure, and balance issues. They are also skilled at tracking prescription drug interaction and are well-versed in the process of integrating care with other doctors and specialists, as you will most likely need more of these as you age. In addition, geriatricians have the knowledge to help you avoid many of age-related conditions in the first place.

Geriatricians are a great resource for people as they age. They’re specially trained in the conditions older adults face, and they can help integrate your care if you’re dealing with several conditions at the same time.

NOTRE DAME LONG TERM CARE CENTER is committed to providing residents with opportunities that enrich and enhance their well-being. Please call (508) 852-3011 to learn more about our long-term care center at 559 Plantation Street.

P.S. Even people who are confident in the ability of their primary care physicians to care for them in their elderly years should include a geriatrician on their healthcare team.

Notre Dame Health Care

Long Term Care

559 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA

508.852.3011 notredamehealthcare.org

Fife and drum corps to hold celebration at Wayside Inn

REGION - Community members will have the opportunity to see dozens of fife and drum corps from across the Northeast gather Saturday, Sept. 25, for the 50th Sudbury Ancient Fyfe and Drum Muster at the Wayside Inn.

The day will feature a colonial encampment, militia and crafts demonstrations, and contradancing.

Seniors on the move

Do I Need a Health Care Proxy?

By

If you have found yourself asking this question, the answer is an emphatic yes. Health Care Proxies are one of the most important documents in your estate plan. So what is it, and why is it so important?

A Health Care Proxy is a document that allows someone to make medical decisions for you if you are incapacitated. This situation could arise if you are in surgery and there are complications, if you are in a motor vehicle accident, or if your mental state is such that you cannot make medical decisions for yourself. A doctor’s job is to treat you. If you find yourself in any of these situations without a Health Care Proxy, your doctors may be required to take specific medical

Organizers expect dozens of colonial and craft vendors augmenting the 25 fife and drum corps from across New England and New York. The fair opens at 10:00 a.m.

A Grand Parade of fifes and drums will begin promptly at noon to be followed by performances. Admission is $3 cash for the general public at the gate.

actions or provide you with a treatment that you would not have wanted.

Furthermore, if you become incapacitated and you do not have a Health Care Proxy in place, your family may need to petition the court for a guardianship over you. In a guardianship, the court appoints someone to have the legal right to make your medical decisions for you. A guardianship can be costly, time consuming, and extremely stressful during an otherwise emotionally taxing event.

If you have a Health Care Proxy naming a trusted family member or friend as your agent, have a conversation with that person to discuss what you would want done in different medical scenarios. A Health Care Proxy allows you to rest easy knowing that whatever the situation, someone who loves you will be looking out for your best wishes.

Photo/submitted

Leah A. Kofos, Esq.

Leah A. Kofos, Esq.

“Leah A. Kofos is an associate in Mirick O’Connell’s Trusts and Estates Group. Mirick O’Connell is a full-service law firm with offices in Worcester, Westborough and Boston, MA.”

Choosing the right agent can keep you out of trouble

Theother day I received the dreaded call from the bank appraiser declaring “We are going to be in trouble.” It was the statement no listing agent ever wants to hear, and it conjures up a list of questions: What will the seller say? What will the buyer do? Was the appraiser familiar enough with the area to use the very best comparable sales in establishing value and did he or she consider market trends and appreciation? And then there’s the most important one: What can I do to save this deal?

So, I did what every wise listing agent should do. I thanked the appraiser for going above and beyond and calling me before sounding the alarms. We entered into a meaningful conversation and discussed the comparable listings the appraiser had chosen for her report. I was able to explain

that two of the comps, while indeed on the same street, were actually in a very different area of town. The subject property was on a flat lot in a rural setting while the comparables were in a high traffic retail area. Furthermore, the two comparable properties had steep winding driveways which

are notoriously hazardous in winter months. These two factors most certainly affected sellability and, thus, market value. Had the appraiser and I never had our conversation, the appraisal would have been released to the lender and we would have, indeed, been in trouble.

This scenario was hauntingly similar to one a few weeks ago in which the appraiser asked me to justify a contract price because there were insufficient comparables to support it…a harsh reality in today’s market of low inventory. Fortunately, I had my trusty monthly market report in hand, and we reviewed the data together.

I was able to illustrate to this appraiser that property values in the subject town had increased 18% since the

same time last year and were expected to increase an additional 9% through the end of 2021, 5.5% in 2022 and 3.5% each year through 2025. I went on to say that while I don’t have a crystal ball, I depend on the predictions of the industry experts such as Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and the National Association of Realtors® to guide my clients. In the end, the appraiser agreed that the typical “sales comparison approach” was ineffective for this property.

In each of the scenarios above, I was thrilled to have been invited to collaborate with the bank appraisers. Together we determined that each respective contract price aligned with fair market value and both deals were saved.

The real estate market has changed so much in the past 24 months that business as usual isn’t working. The most savvy professionals are pivoting and working much harder behind the scenes to get to the closing table. While there are never any guarantees, choosing the right team makes all the difference…and keeps you out of trouble.

Boyle lives in Northborough where she is also a Chapter Leader of the Neighbor Brigade, a nonprofit charitable organization that assists families in times of crisis. She has been a Real Estate Agent since 2003 and consistently wins awards and accolades for excellence in customer service and sales volume, culminating with her induction into the RE/MAX Hall of Fame. She is also a Children’s Miracle Network ‘Miracle Agent’ and makes a donation to Boston Children’s Hospital on behalf of every home buyer and seller upon closing.

Boyle’s mission is to empower her clients to make informed decisions through data-driven insights and local market knowledge. Her passion is helping others find quality of life through Real Estate. She invites you to follow her on Facebook at www. facebook.com/judyboylerealtor, call or email her for the FALL 2021 Home Buyer and/or Seller Guides or for a complimentary market analysis.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Applefest 5K run/walk returns to Northborough roads

By Ed Karvoski Jr.

Contributing

Writer

NORTHBOROUGH - Nearly 300 runners and walkers registered to participate in the annual Applefest 5K Road Race on Sept. 18. The route began and ended at Melican Middle School.

Two Northborough residents earned the top achievements.

Pierre Massat of Northborough finished first overall in 19:21. Kaitlin Johnson of Northborough was the first-place female, finishing in 22.09.

To comply with 2020’s pandemic restrictions, last year’s 5K road race took place as a virtual event. This year, participants were given the option of doing the race online.

Proceeds went to Boros Cares 4 Troops (BC4T), which has organized the 5K since 2019.

BC4T is a nonprofit that supports military veterans’ causes. The organization was founded in 2015 by Northborough residents Leslie Arsenault, Karen Brewster, Beth Davison and Michelle Gillespie, the Applefest chair.

Among BC4T’s current projects are a veterans’ food pantry and Hometown Heroes banners displayed on town light poles that depict Northborough service

members. Learn more about BC4T at bc4t.org and facebook.com/ wearebc4t. For more photos, visit communityadvocate.com.

Evening BBQ, concert, fireworks return to Northborough’s Applefest

By Ed Karvoski Jr. Contributing Writer

NORTHBOROUGH - After a two-year hiatus, an evening celebration featuring a barbecue, concert, fireworks and other activities returned Sept. 18 to Northborough’s 31st annual Applefest. Festivities took place at the Algonquin Regional High School athletic fields.

This Applefest event was canceled in 2019 and 2020 due to EEE risk and pandemic restrictions, respectively.

Once again manning this year’s barbecue were members of two Northborough organizations: Knights of Columbus St. Augustine Council 5724 and Challenger Sports. Pizza was available from the Applefest Committee. Providing live music was the band known as Hit the Bus with lead vocalist David Garden. He’s a Southborough native now residing in Shrewsbury and a 1997 Algonquin alum.

The Algonquin’s Robotics Team entertained and educated attendees of all ages with interactive demonstrations. Meanwhile, Algonquin’s National Honor Society members oversaw inflatable amusements and a cotton candy booth.

Boy Scout Troop 1 challenged young attendees to balance themselves on a monkey bridge of tied rope pieces.

A number of community organizations and businesses made other activities available. Pony rides were a popular offering.

The evening concluded with a fireworks display.

For more photos, visit communityadvocate.com.

Mia Berberian, 6, glides to the bottom of an inflatable slide.

PHOTO/ED KARVOSKI JR.

Kaitlin Johnson of Northborough (front, bib #218) is among runners beginning the Applefest 5K Road Race. She was the first-place female, finishing in 22.09.

Road race runner Lando Bates (bib #268) poses for a photo with his family before the 5K starts.

PHOTOS/ED KARVOSKI JR.

School Committee Vice Chair says residents don’t feel heard in ARHS mascot selection process

By Laura Hayes Senior Community Reporter

NORTHBOROUGH/SOUTHBOR-

OUGH - Northborough Southborough Regional School Committee

Vice Chair Daniel Kolenda noted at a Sept. 14 meeting that some residents don’t feel heard in the process of choosing a new Algonquin Regional High School (ARHS) mascot.

“There are folks that believe they weren’t heard before,” Kolenda said. “They had an opportunity to vote, and they believe they’re not being heard again.”

Residents are asking Kolenda what to do, he said. Do they start an online petition or collect signatures to bring the matter to Town Meeting?

“All I’m suggesting is, the more inclusive we are with people who wish to have their voices heard, the better off we’re going to be at the end,” Kolenda said.

Consultant offers recommendations following survey

The Northborough Southborough Regional School Committee

voted to retire the old Tomahawk mascot back in April amid an ongoing debate about the use of Native American imagery and naming as school mascots.

Although Kolenda was not present for the actual vote, he had suggested that the committee table its vote for an additional 30 to 60 days to allow community members to provide input.

The vote went forward, however, with all nine present members voting to retire the mascot.

The Mascot Renaming Study Group has met since that vote, recently hearing a breakdown of results from a survey sent out to the community in July.

That survey, in part, asked what mascot should replace the Tomahawk.

Meeting minutes indicate that

680 people responded. The data analysis indicated that the top suggested mascot was to keep the Tomahawk at 99 votes, with “Thunderhawk” coming in second at 67 votes.

Jake Messier of HEARD Strategy and Storytelling offered recommendations based on the data. A spreadsheet prepared by HEARD reflected those suggestions, specifically suggesting against keeping the same mascot. It also listed those second and third most popular options —“Thunderhawks” and “Hawks” — as “out.”

Algonquin Principal Sean Bevan said that Messier’s recommendations “…are not binding, but are certainly helpful in letting us know what the data represents and how it matches to other communities.”

‘They might as well just put ‘none of the above’’ Kolenda said he’s heard from many residents since the mascot retirement vote earlier this year.

He said some of the community members then saw HEARD’s spreadsheet and its suggestions. They wondered, if the community said one thing, who is HEARD to say no?

“Part of this is, people are upset that they didn’t believe they were heard in the first place,” Kolenda said. “Now, they see that they have an opportunity to be heard and they’re voting, and their vote doesn’t matter. They might as well just put ‘none of the above.’”

Bevan said HEARD’s role was to provide the committee with guidance on the process. The recommendation was simply a recommendation, he said.

“[Assistant Superintendent of Operations Keith Lavoie] had put that in his email out to the community,” Bevan said. “I don’t know how to respond if people didn’t participate in that and didn’t read that and only consumed what was only in a spreadsheet.”

“I don’t know how to respond except…that it takes being engaged and paying close attention, and we’re trying to be as transparent as possible,” he continued.

The survey was advertised throughout the community, Bevan said.

“If folks are indicating that they don’t feel heard, we’re trying our best to do that,” Bevan said. Kolenda responded, again noting HEARD’s recommendations.

“Well, I think, Sean, they don’t feel heard when they’re asked to vote, and then a third-party vendor says your vote doesn’t count,” Kolenda said.

Committee discusses next steps The committee met again on Sept. 20.

Mascot | 13

A banner hung over the driveway to Algonquin Regional High School earlier this year, proclaiming the school as “Home of the Tomahawks.”

Photo/Dakota Antelman

School Committee Vice Chair says residents don’t feel heard in ARHS mascot selection process

Mascot | from page 12

Lavoie said, prior to that meeting, that the committee didn’t have a lot of time to review the data and responses at its last meeting.

“Since that time, many of the committee members have been able to dive into that,” Lavoie said. “So, we’re really looking forward to the Sept. 20 conversation.”

Bevan said the committee would be reviewing Native American input on a Thunderhawk mascot.

Three-pronged approach in ARHS

Bevan said that Algonquin has a “deep commitment” to using education to enhance students’ understanding of both the school’s history and the contributions of Native Americans to society.

“It’s not just about changing the mascot. It’s about educating our young people about our mascot and the contributions of Native Americans,” Bevan said.

That education will be a threepronged effort in curriculum, the development of a display of ARHS’ history and during freshman orientation.

Bevan said he would be ask-

ARHS boosters talk sponsorship opportunities

ing the high school’s humanities teachers to examine the depth that the Native American experience is taught.

It’s already covered in U.S. History I and II, he said.

“I will say, I don’t think we’ve done a huge amount in our schools, at least at the high school level,” Bevan said. “I think it might happen at the middle school level to examine the local tribal communities and their impact on New England.”

Sophomore American literature students read some Native American literature.

Additionally, he said the course, “Silenced Voices,” does a deep dive into Native American literature.

Silenced Voices is an elective.

Bevan said students who are already interested in the topic are typically the ones who enroll in that class.

“So, it’s not enough to just rely on that class because it does not touch so many students as is necessary to make this change happen,” Bevan said.

He said staff was looking at ways to refine their approach to discussions of Native American communities in English and social studies classes.

By Laura Hayes Senior Community Reporter

NORTHBOROUGH/SOUTHBOR-

OUGH - The Algonquin Booster Club is launching a new fundraising campaign in which people can purchase bricks for the path leading to the main entrance to the school’s athletic fields.

Booster President Tom Spataro introduced the campaign during a Sept. 14 Regional School Committee meeting.

According to the Booster Club’s website, a 4x8 brick costs $100 and an 8x8 brick costs $250.

School Committee reviews sponsorships programs

The Sept. 14 discussion was part of a larger review by the School Committee of the Booster Club’s sponsorships.

Several years ago, the Booster Club looked for ways to raise funds more easily.

“It can be a lot of work to run clinics, to run banquets, to raise funds and go door-to-door just to raise funds so you can get uniforms or new equipment or improvement on some of the facilities,” Spataro said.

Booster Club fundraising joins

district-budgeted funds, gate receipts and athletic fees in collectively supporting and paying for aspects of Algonquin’s athletics programs.

Local businesses support Booster Club through sponsorships

The Booster Club met with the School Committee to work on policies, partly to make sure the club was following correct procedures when hanging up banners, for example.

During the meeting, the committee accepted $5,000 from Avidia Bank to sponsor Algonquin’s baseball scoreboard and sign. They further accepted $10,000 from Main Street Bank to sponsor the concession stand and $15,000 from Rafferty Law to sponsor a golf event.

A lot of businesses stepped up to support the Booster Club’s fundraising efforts prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Spataro said.

However, he continued, they lost about 12 sponsors when the pandemic hit.

“It was a key way for us to raise funds because we couldn’t do the golf event that got canceled,”

Spataro said of continuing sponsorships during the pandemic.

‘I’m concerned about so much money going in one direction’ Regional School Committee member Kathleen Howland noted that other organizations, like parent teacher organizations and the music boosters, are fundraising. She asked about ways to avoid excluding those other fundraising efforts.

“I’m concerned about so much money going in one direction and any limitations that might be on fundraising because they are left selling cookies and cakes and candy bars as the usual,” Howland said.

“I look at it and say, the more the merrier,” Spataro said. “We’re raising money for the high school at the end of the day. If other people want to join, we’re definitely not going to turn them away.”

During the meeting, Athletic Director Mike Mocerino thanked the Booster Club “for their continued involvement in the athletic program.”

“We can always count on the Booster Club to help us out,” Mocerino said.

Northborough/Southborough Schools superintendent explains goals for the school year

By Laura Hayes Senior Community Reporter

NORTHBOROUGH/SOUTHBOROUGH - From goals surrounding instruction to collecting student data, Northborough/Southborough Public Schools Superintendent Gregory Martineau laid out his goals for the year during a Combined School Committee meeting Sept. 14.

Martineau’s evaluation began with a self-assessment examining how he is performing based on feedback from his evaluation in the spring. Martineau then identified his goals to propose to the school committees.

Southborough School Committee Chair Roger Challen asked Martineau how he knows whether a goal is too much to bite off.

“Because there’s the old jack of all trades syndrome that sort of exists everywhere,” Challen said.

Martineau said his goals are the district’s goals. The district’s curriculum directors

have parallel goals.

“It’s really the thinking that we’re all working toward this work,” he said.

Goal focuses on instruction, collaboration

Martineau’s first goal centers around instruction and, specifically, looking at how schools can collaborate to make sure they are implementing consistent, high-quality instructional practices and encouraging innovation.

“I think, over the past year, many of our practices were no longer feasible as a result of the pandemic,” Martineau said. “We’ve learned a lot around what we can do and can’t do in terms of innovation.”

He said he wants to continue the out-of-the-box thinking that teachers did during the height of the pandemic.

Second goal centers on equity

Martineau’s second goal focuses on equity of opportunity.

One of the initiatives under this goal is having the district

collect and use student learning data. Specifically, Martineau talked about providing dashboards to staff so they can see how a student and students across a course have performed on an assessment.

Additionally, under this goal, one of the initiatives is to continue to foster culturally responsive and inclusive communities and environments that set up students to access and excel in school programs.

His third goal is to prioritize the social, emotional and phys-

ical well-being of students.

His fourth goal, meanwhile, deals with educator learning and leadership.

Fifth goal breaks down finance, operations

Martineau’s fifth goal is about the district’s finance and operations, focusing on support for teaching and learning.

“Obviously, resources and the budget is an important part in the process to accomplish the goals that we set out for students,” Martineau said.

He said the schools work with town staff in Northborough and Southborough as well as the police and fire departments to make sure the schools are safe and to make sure the schools connect to town master plans.

One of Martineau’s initiatives under this goal is to examine and maximize the district’s energy efficiency.

“Ultimately, I think we want to reduce our carbon footprint and have sustainability goals as a district,” Martineau said.

Plan to be implemented soon

The plan will be implemented through the spring. In the middle of the process, Martineau will report in his progress toward his goals before his summative evaluation next June.

“I’d just like to say, another great job, Greg, in coming up with a lot of meaningful goals. I think we’ll do a lot to push the district forward,” said Regional School Committee Chair Paul Desmond.

October 9th & 10th

Tickets on sale now!

Thanks to our innovative team of experts and associates, Benchmark residents are confident, excited, and safely stepping back into their normal routines. We are thrilled to be welcoming new residents and visitors into our community, and resuming many of our programming experiences.

Northborough fire | from page 3 for waking him up.

“I can’t put into words how much I thank her for her immediate response,” Mike said. “She was immediate. She was aggressively loud and in a very serious demeanor to wake you up.”

Fire trucks raced to the scene. But the building’s Unit One was fully engulfed by the time those firefighters arrived, Mike said.

Kevin Hunt remembered, mourned following fatal fire

Northborough Fire Chief David Parenti said they received the report at 4:20 a.m. on Sept. 10 of a fire.

Firefighters tried to enter Unit One but could only get so far inside because of how heavy the fire was, Parenti said.

By the time they did enter, they found the fire had killed a man later identified as Kevin Hunt.

Hunt, 40, was born in Rochester, New Hampshire, before moving to Shrewsbury, where he attended Shrewsbury High School, according to his obituary. He was involved in various

sports but “was most passionate about hockey,” scoring Shrewsbury’s game-winning goal in the 1999 high school state championships.

He played hockey at Worcester State while pursuing a degree in business administration.

“Kevin had a very successful career in medical sales and enjoyed his career very much,” his obituary noted. “He continued to be active in hockey and golf, as well as an avid Boston sports fan.”

Hunt had two children with his former wife, Kristal.

“Kevin’s true passion was his incredible love and devotion to his two children,” his obituary continued. “They were the love of his life and he was theirs. He was a truly devoted and loving father to his children.”

‘Northborough just always had that home feeling’

Mike was raised in Northborough before he moved to Leicester in the third grade.

Mike and his family have lived in their Maple Street home for the past three years. They have three children, Declan, 4, Sawyer, 3, and

MichaelEnzo, who is nine months old. The children were not home on the night of the fire, though.

Mike loved the Northborough community as he grew up. He said the school system was excellent. The people were kind. Children played outside.

“It’s safe,” Mike said.

“Northborough just always had that home feeling,” he continued.

Mike didn’t know Hunt personally, though he met him several times.

“He came across genuinely kind and friendly and approachable,” Mike said.

“A mother and father lost their son, and two children lost their father,” Mike said. “Possessions can be replaced. Life — you only have one. I couldn’t imagine what this family is going through. Our deepest condolences from our family to theirs.”

Fire Marshal: fire originated in apartment’s bedroom

A Southborough firefighter was taken to the hospital for heat exhaustion experienced during this fire.

According to a press release from State Fire Marshal Peter Ostroskey, the fire originated in the bedroom of Hunt’s apartment.

The cause of the fire is undetermined, though there wasn’t evidence that the fire was intentional.

When authorities examined the scene after the fire, they didn’t find any working smoke alarms in any of the five units, one of which was vacant, the press release said.

“Smoke alarms can’t help you escape a fire if the batteries are missing or expired,” Parenti said in the release.

Family starts GoFundMe campaign

In the hours after the fire, questions began running through Mike’s head.

Where are they going to live? Where would their children stay? How do you explain this to the children?

“They have nothing to go back to,” Mike said. “At such a young age, we’re lucky they weren’t there because they didn’t endure trauma.”

Neighbors offered water.

One neighbor offered to have the family stay in their basement.

One person paid for the family to stay at a hotel for a week.

Community members stepped up and have donated funds, including to their GoFundMe, which can be found at https:// gofund.me/5aff499e.

Specifically, the family is looking for gift cards to places like Walmart, TJ Maxx and Marshalls and children’s clothing stores like Carter’s.

Additionally, Mike’s Cash App is $itzthekidd and his Venmo is @ MikePizzarella.

Mike invites any landlords who may have at least a twobedroom apartment available to reach out to Mike via text at 508389-3810. Anyone who wants to donate baby wipes and size three diapers for MichaelEnzo can also reach out.

“I want to thank the Town of Northborough for coming together on the day of the fire with donations,” Mike said. “It was so fast and overwhelming. We’re so grateful that there are so many good people out there that want to help.”

Westborough girls volleyball start undefeated COMMUNITY SPORTS

HIGH SCHOOL SCOREBOARD

By Chris Wilson

Contributing Writer

REGION - The fall sports season is in full swing, marking the second slate of games in just a matter of months for football and volleyball programs, in particular, which played earlier this year in the MIAA’s abbreviated Fall II season.

When speaking with the Community Advocate, Westborough girls volleyball coach Roger Anderson said his team is glad to be back to a normal fall schedule.

“The reality of a post-season is a big difference,” he said.

During the Fall II season, teams played schools in their immediate area and did not participate in a playoff tournament.

“The opportunity to determine how good we really are by facing the toughest opponents across the entire state in the State Championship

tournament is a motivating factor for us,” Anderson said.

The Rangers were already off to a 4-0 start as of Sept. 17. Two of those wins came last week when Westborough shut out Bishop Feehan and Wachusett on Sept. 13 and Sept. 14.

“We have great kids who

love the sport of volleyball and work hard,” Anderson said of his team this year.

“Our veteran, returning players model the values of our program and lead by example,” he continued.

Off the volleyball court, the Westborough High School football team found redemption in the second week of their season, beating North Middlesex by a score of 13-12. That came after Shepherd Hill dealt the Rangers a difficult 53-6 defeat in their season opener on Sept. 10. See full scores from across the region’s high school sports programs…

ALGONQUIN

BOYS CROSS COUNTRY – SEPT. 14

Algonquin – 27, Wachusett – 29

GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY – SEPT. 14

Algonquin – 40, Wachusett – 19

GIRLS SOCCER – SEPT. 14

Algonquin – 3, Concord-Carlisle- 1

BOYS GOLF – SEPT. 15

Algonquin – 46.5, Leominster –25.5

FIELD HOCKEY – SEPT. 17

Algonquin – 2, Marlborough – 0

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL – SEPT. 17

Algonquin – 0, Westborough – 3

FOOTBALL – SEPT. 17

Algonquin – 14, Nashoba – 28

GRAFTON

BOYS GOLF – SEPT. 13

Grafton – 175, Bartlett – 238

GIRLS SOCCER – SEPT. 13

Grafton – 9, Bartlett – 0

BOYS SOCCER – SEPT. 13

Grafton – 3, Bartlett – 1

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL – SEPT. 13

Grafton – 3, Millbury – 0

FIELD HOCKEY – SEPT. 14

Grafton – 5, Algonquin – 2

BOYS GOLF – SEPT. 15

Grafton – 218, Hopedale – 216

GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY – SEPT. 15

Grafton – 20, Leicester – 43

BOYS CROSS COUNTRY – SEPT. 15

Grafton – 18, Leicester – 37

BOYS SOCCER – SEPT. 15

Grafton – 11, Southbridge – 0

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL – SEPT. 15

Grafton – 3, Southbridge – 0

FIELD HOCKEY – SEPT. 16

Grafton – 0, Nashoba – 5

BOYS GOLF – SEPT. 17

Grafton – 223, Westborough – 210

FOOTBALL – SEPT. 17

Grafton – 49, Auburn – 14

SHREWSBURY

BOYS GOLF – SEPT. 13

Shrewsbury – 35, North Middlesex – 37

BOYS GOLF – SEPT. 13

Shrewsbury – 27, Algonquin – 45

FIELD HOCKEY – SEPT. 13

Shrewsbury – 4, Marlborough – 0

GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY – SEPT. 14

Shrewsbury – 15, Leominster – 50

GIRLS SOCCER – SEPT. 14

Shrewsbury – 4, Wachusett – 0

BOYS SOCCER – SEPT. 14

Shrewsbury – 2, Wachusett – 0

FIELD HOCKEY – SEPT. 17

Shrewsbury – 2, Wachusett – 2

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL – SEPT. 17

Shrewsbury – 3, Shepherd Hill – 0

ST. JOHN’S

GOLF – SEPT. 14

St. John’s – 228, Catholic Memorial – 243

SOCCER – SEPT. 14

St. John’s – 5, Catholic Memorial – 1

SOCCER – SEPT. 16

St. John’s – 1, St. John’s Prep – 2

GOLF – SEPT. 17

St. John’s – 239, St. John’s Prep – 244

FOOTBALL – SEPT. 17

St. John’s – 35, Shrewsbury – 0

A Westborough girls volleyball player sets a ball for her teammate to spike.

PHOTOS/KELLY BURNESON PHOTOGRAPHY

Community Harvest Project to host

Harvest Home Fall Festival & 5K

GRAFTON - The 15th annual Harvest Home Fall Festival & 5K will take place on Sunday, Nov. 7 in Grafton.

The event will feature in-person and online attractions including a 5K fun run, online auction, food and drink, kids activities, a scarecrow contest, pumpkin trebuchets, apple cannons, and a live stream of the 1 p.m. Patriots game.

Proceeds support the Community Harvest Project, which works to engage and educate volunteers to grow fruits and vegetables for hunger relief.

The event will take place from at the Community Harvest Project’s location at 37 Wheeler Rd. in Grafton.

Learn more at https://www.facebook.com/events/542533536961854/? active_tab=about.

To register for the 5k run, visit https://event.racereach.com/harvesthome5k.

HIGH SCHOOL SCOREBOARD

SOCCER – SEPT. 18

St. John’s – 2, Shrewsbury – 1

WESTBOROUGH

BOYS CROSS COUNTRY – SEPT. 13

Westborough – 28, Shepherd Hill

– 31

GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY – SEPT. 13

Westborough – 37, Shepherd Hill

– 18

BOYS SOCCER – SEPT. 13

Westborough – 5, Groton-Dunstable

– 2

GIRLS SOCCER – SEPT. 13

Westborough – 1, Nashoba – 0

Shrewsbury boys soccer falls to St. Johns in competitive cross-town matchup

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL – SEPT. 13

Westborough – 3, Bishop Feehan – 0

FIELD HOCKEY – SEPT. 13

Westborough – 1, North Middlesex – 0

BOYS GOLF – SEPT. 14

Westborough – 49, Nashoba – 32

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL. – SEPT 14

Westborough – 3, Wachusett – 0

BOYS SOCCER – SEPT. 14

Westborough – 1, Leominster – 2

FIELD HOCKEY – SEPT. 17

Westborough – 1, Oakmont – 6

GIRLS SOCCER – SEPT. 17

Westborough – 3, Grafton – 0

BOYS SOCCER – SEPT. 17

Westborough – 0, Nashoba – 2

FOOTBALL – SEPT. 17

Westborough – 13, North Middlesex – 12

By Jesse Kucewicz Contributing Writer

SHREWSBURY - The Shrewsbury Boys varsity soccer team fell to Saint John’s High School in a matchup, Sept. 18.

Saint John’s struck first with a goal in the 35th minute from sophomore Adrian Sobczak. That sent them into halftime with a 1-0 lead.

The Pioneers would extend their lead to 2-0 early in the second half before a 30-yard strike from Shrewsbury junior

Jack Dowling narrowed the deficit to one. With less than ten minutes remaining in the game, though, Shrewsbury couldn’t find another goal to equalize. The match ended with a final score of 2-1 in favor of Saint John’s.

“Anytime Shrewsbury and Saint John’s play it’s going to be a tough battle,” said Shrewsbury Head Coach Matt Wheeler.

The Colonials’ first loss of the season came in a home matchup against Framingham

SUPER CROSSWORD

where they also fell 2-1, causing some frustration within the squad.

“We have to find a way to win close games, simple as that,” Wheeler said, Sept. 18. Wheeler noted that his squad is younger than in previous years.

“But when you compete at the high level that we compete at, there’s really no room for error,” he added. “Kids need to step up, the coaches need to step up, it all needs to be better.”

Answers to puzzle located on p. 21

A St. John’s player kicks a ball to his teammates despite defense from Shrewsbury.

“COLOSSAL COINAGE”

PHOTO/JESSE KUCEWICZ

New field hockey coach takes the reins at Algonquin

By Kevin J. Stone Contributing Writer

NORTHBOROUGH/SOUTH -

BOROUGH - Algonquin Field Hockey coach Jennifer Brown has been coaching and running her own field hockey camp for years. But, on Sept. 8, she still felt jitters.

Algonquin was tied with Wachusett 1-1 in what was Brown’s first game as head coach. After an eventual loss in that matchup, Algonquin earned their new coach her first win on Sept. 14, beating Concord-Carlisle by a score of 3-1.

“This team lost a lot of starters from last year, so I came in with a fresh, clean slate,” Brown said in an interview before that Concord-Carlisle game. “Heading into tryouts, I told everyone they’d have a fair shot at varsity.”

“We’re a very raw, athletic team this season,” she continued.

Brown said her squad consists of seven upperclassmen,

leading nine freshmen and sophomores.

“It’s a very young team,” she said. “But I’m excited about it and they’ve already proven themselves to be very determined and I think they’re going to do well.”

Captains aid in coaching transition

The owner of Strikers Field Hockey, Brown had been working with middle school programs for “the last 20 years” when she took this job.

When the season started, that gave Brown a good idea of what her top priority would be as she dealt with a young team.

“It’s just building up those skills and the basic fundamentals,” she said.

The one thing Brown couldn’t really coach is the natural team chemistry that comes with players being together on a daily basis.

She said she knew she needed some strong leadership at the top. That’s why Sabrina

Ferro and Grace Ammon were named captains almost immediately.

“I made them captains when I got hired in June, just because they had been on the hiring committee and had already been doing a lot of the grunt work while I wasn’t there,” Brown explained. “So, in the limbo of not having a

head coach, I wanted to honor their hard work and dedication and have them lead the team.”

Upperclassmen

‘holding the fort’

On the field, goalie Shannon Hill, Nicole Egizi, Fresca Collett and Lee Gould are all also part of that upperclassmen leadership group that’s been

showing the younger players how things are done.

“Those girls are holding the fort defensively,” Brown said. For all the leadership of the upperclassmen, Brown also noted that several newcomers are making a splash. Notably, freshman Lindsay Brown had the game-tying goal against Wachusett on Sept. 8.

New Algonquin Field Hockey coach Jennifer Brown speaks to players during a recent game against Marlborough.

PHOTOS/LAURA HAYES

An Algonquin player lunges to gain possession of a loose ball during a recent game.

Shrewsbury golfer continues youth golf success with regional tournament championship

By Kevin Perrington-Turner

Contributing Writer

SHREWSBURY - Addison Cutting, 12, of Shrewsbury is a golf champion after she won the New England PGA Junior Tour last month.

Held at Highfields Golf and Country Club in Grafton on Aug. 25 and 26, the two day event saw Cutting beat second place finisher Reva Machanavajhula with a two-stroke advantage.

Westborough’s Sophie Kamil also cracked the leaderboard, finishing in fourth place.

This win capped a busy summer for Cutting, who spent the months preceding this tournament working on her game. She’s played around New England, which has allowed her to qualify for regional and national play.

Golf journey takes inspiration from pro-golf duo

Cutting self identifies as a competitive person.

She’s won nine 1st place

Westborough Cultural Council accepting grant applications

WESTBOROUGH - Do you have a performance or workshop in need of grant funding?

The Westborough Cultural Council (WCC) is accepting grant applications for individuals, schools and organizations for funds to support community cultural activities.

The WCC awarded over $12,000 in 2021, including grants to Westborough Public Library programs, the Westborough Historical Society, Westborough Connects and the Assabet Valley Mastersingers.

Any applications must be completed by Friday, Oct. 15, and only applications submitted online will be considered.

For more information on the grant application, visit https:// www.town.westborough.ma.us/ cultural-council and https:// massculturalcouncil.org/communities/local-cultural-councilprogram/application-process/.

Anyone with questions can contact Maureen Johnson at 508-366-6326 or maureenj1@ verizon.net or Holly Kenny at elsiekayeglassstudio@gmail.com.

Addison Cutting stands with her sister and fellow golfer, Olivia.

medals and notched one previous 2nd place finish in the New England PGA Junior Tour. She was the 2021 Haven Country Club Jr. Club Champion for 2021 and recently tied one of the state’s top ranked players in the Massachusetts Girls Jr. Amateur tournament, among other things.

When asked about her love for the sport, Cutting mentioned her sister and her support system as sources of inspiration to develop her game. She also

noted Nelly and Jessica Korda, sisters who both recently rose to the upper echelon of the golf world.

“I was watching the LPGA and I was like ‘Wow, they can play really good,’” Cutting said. “My sister plays, and we could be the next Korda sisters.”

Cutting continued to praise her sister, Olivia.

“My sister is amazing,” she said. “I really look up to her.”

Coach praises golfer’s professionalism

Coach Matt Burke has been coaching Cutting for over five years. He saw the potential in her as a player when she first started taking classes.

As time went on, he’s since seen her grow to be one of the best players in the region.

“Coaching Addison is such a fantastic experience,” Burke

said. “She’s a fireball and is always looking to learn and get better.”

Part of the process of getting better, Burke said, has been a total shift to now golf in a lefthanded position.

When Cutting started, he recalled, Cutting golfed in a right-handed stance. Learning that she played hockey with a left-handed stick, though, Burke

worked to make the adjustment.

“She takes instruction better than any 12-year old I have ever seen,” Burke said. “The ceiling is endless for her ability to grow as a player in the game of golf on and off the course. She will do great things in life.”

“She knows how to win and get the job done in a professional way and conducts herself way above her age,” Burke said.

Legal Help Wanted CA

PROBATE & FAMILY COURT

Docket # WO21D1411DR

OFFICE ASSISTANT

The Town of Northborough is seeking qualified applicants for a part-time Office Assistant position with the Department of Family & Youth Services. For information on how to apply, please visit: www.town.northborough.ma.us/ human-resources.

MAINTENANCE

TECHNICIAN

A medium size central Massachusetts wholesale bakery is seeking a full time, experienced Maintenance Technician.

Hours 6:30am-3:00pm.

Preferred candidates must have strong mechanical, electrical and troubleshooting skills.

Drivers license and tools required. Email Johnny@dimitriadelights.com to set up an interview.

Rebecca Dos Anjos Serra v. Rayner Passos Serra

Upon motion of plaintiff for an order directing the defendant, to appear, plead, or answer, in accordance with Mass.R.Civ.P./Mass.R.Dom.Rel.P.Rule

4, it appearing to the court that this is an action for Divorce 1B

Pursuant to Supplemental Probate Court Rull 411, an Automatic Restraining Order has been entered against the above named parties. Defendant cannot be found within the Commonwealth and his/her present whereabouts are unknown. Personal service on defendant is therefore not practicable, and defendant has not voluntarily appeared in this action.

It is Ordered that defendant is directed to appear, plead, answer, or otherwise move with respect to the complaint herein on or before 12/21/2021. You are hereby summoned and required to serve upon: Anthony Del Signore, Attorney at Law, 200F Main St. Suite 363, Stoneham, MA 02180

If you fail to do so this Court will proceed to a hearing and adjudication of this matter.

It is further Ordered that the accompanying summons be published once in the Community Advocate, a newspaper published in 32 South Street, Westborough, MA, the publication to be 20 days at least before said return day. It is further Ordered that a copy of the summons be mailed to the defendant at his/her last known address by registered or certified mail.

Worcester Probate and Family Court

225 Main Street, Worcester, MA 508-831-2200

PROBATE & FAMILY COURT

Docket # 21P2462EA

Estate of: Linda Bette Kopans

Date of Death: June 8, 2021

To all persons interested in the above captioned estate, by Petition of Petitioner Ericka B. Grubbs of Okatie, SC, a Will has been admitted to informal probate. The estate is being administered under informal procedure by the Personal Representative under the Massachusetts Uniform Probate Code without supervision by the Court. Inventory and accounts are not required to be filed with the Court, but the interested parties are entitled to notice regarding the administration from the Personal Representative and can petition the Court in any matter relating to the estate, including distribution of assets and expenses of administration. Interested parties are entitled to petition the Court to institute formal proceedings and to obtain orders terminating or restricting the powers of Personal Representatives appointed under informal procedure. A copy of the Petition and Will, if any, can be obtained from the Petitioner.

INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE

Docket No. MI21P3854EA

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

The Trial Court

Probate and Family Court

Middlesex Division

Estate of: James E. Whitehead, Jr.

Also Known As: James Edward Whitehead

Date of Death: April 03, 2020

To all persons interested in the above captioned estate, by Petition of Petitioner Lisa J. Mullin of Northborough, MA, Lisa J. Mullin of Northborough, MA has been informally appointed as the Personal Representative of the estate to serve without surety on the bond. The estate is being administered under informal procedure by the Personal Representative under the Massachusetts Uniform Probate Code without supervision by the Court. Inventory and accounts are not required to be filed with the Court, but interested parties are entitled to notice regarding the administration from the Personal Representative and can petition the court in any matter relating to the estate, including distribution of assets and expenses of administration. Interested parties are entitled to petition the Court to institute formal proceedings and to obtain orders terminating or restricting the powers of Personal Representatives appointed under informal procedure. A copy of the Petition and Will, if any, can be obtained from the Petitioner.

By Laura Hayes Senior Community Reporter

SHREWSBURY - Shrewsbury received over a million dollars more in revenue from licenses and permits last year than it had originally budgeted for.

While a chunk of that is from the licenses and permits needed

HIRING EVENT WEEK

Construction proceeded at the old Edgemere Drive-In property in Shrewsbury earlier this year. Work there helped generate record license and permit revenue for Shrewsbury in the 2021 Fiscal Year.

2021 11:00AM-3:30PM

SOUTHBOROUGH POST OFFICE 164 Cordaville Rd Southborough, Ma 01772

ALL POSITIONS NOW HIRING!

for the redevelopment of the former Edgemere Drive-In, Town Manager Kevin Mizikar told the Board of Selectmen Sept. 14, a lot of the revenue came from smaller permits.

That included “people investing in their homes, putting in pools as the pandemic focused people to their own properties,” Mizikar said.

years, Mizikar said.

The second highest year was 2017, accounting for $1.414 in revenue. That was the year when permits were pulled for the Lakeway Commons development.

from this board from the beginning to allow the market to help us understand where it wants to go,” Mizikar said.

Town meets excise tax expectations despite auto industry disruptions

Drive by to grab a Hiring Packet and then apply online

Drive by to grab a Hiring Packet and then apply online

License and permits revenue shatters record

“It was always a moving target with the budget, and I think you hit it in a really good way by being conservative, keeping us in a very strong position,” selectman Beth Casavant told Mizikar in response to his presentation.

Apply at: www.usps.com/careers

Apply at: www.usps.com/careers

This information was part of Mizikar’s report on the end of the 2021 fiscal year (FY), which closed out on June 30.

The largest revenue source within the local receipts budget category is motor vehicle excise taxes. Shrewsbury received $6.3 million in revenue from that source in FY 2021, which is about $270,000 over what the town had budgeted.

Opening of marijuana dispensaries generates revenue

 Must possess a valid state driver’s license CCA AND TTO POSITIONS

 Must possess a valid state driver’s license CCA AND TTO POSITIONS

 Must have 2 years driving experience. CCA AND TTO POSITIONS

 Must have 2 years driving experience. CCA AND TTO POSITIONS

OCTOBER 11, 2021-OCTOBER 15, 2021 11:00AM-3:30PM 164 Cordaville Rd Southborough, Ma 01772 ALL Assessments, Exam

a Must possess a valid state driver’s license CCA AND TTO POSITIONS

 Refer to Job Posting for more details.

 May be required to work any day of the week, including Saturdays, Sundays & Holidays, as scheduled.

 May be required to work any day of the week, including Saturdays, Sundays & Holidays, as scheduled.

a Must have 2 years driving experience. CCA AND TTO POSITIONS

Location: Massachusetts The USPS is an equal opportunity employer.

Location: Massachusetts The USPS is an equal opportunity employer.

a May be required to work any day of the week, including Saturdays, Sundays & Holidays, as scheduled.

a Refer to Job Posting for more details.

ALL Assessments, Exam Screenings, and Interview instructions are sent via email. The USPS is an equal opportunity employer.

It touched on the local receipts budget category, which is made up of revenue from the motor vehicle and meals excise taxes, cannabis-related revenue as well as licenses and permits.

Mizikar said 2021 was the highest year on record in terms of licenses and permits revenue, massing a total of $1.833 million.

The town had anticipated receiving just over $800,000 based on trends from previous

As licenses and permits racked up revenue for the town, this was the first fiscal year in which Shrewsbury’s marijuana retailers were open.

Between excise tax revenue and the town’s host community agreements with the retailers, Shrewsbury earned $332,924.62 in revenue.

“[That] certainly exceeded budget because we didn’t anticipate any, which was the plan

While vehicle sales have been impacted by COVID-19 and a severe shortage of microchips used in automobile manufacturing, Mizikar said he was pleased that the town met its budgeted amount.

In terms of the meals excise tax, Mizikar said it’s a good economic indicator. Shrewsbury exceeded that budget by about $116,000 for a total of $490,645.47.

‘We’ll have to be smart in how we budget this’ Altogether, $13.1 million in local receipts exceeded the $10.4 million Shrewsbury had budgeted for.

The spike in local receipts revenue is welcome news after officials in Shrewsbury and across the region have spent parts of the COVID-19 pandemic worried about the impacts of shutdowns and the broader economic crisis caused by the coronavirus.

“I don’t expect this to continue in future fiscal years,” Mizikar said of this year’s economic good fortune. “So, we’ll have to be smart in how we budget this.”

PHOTO/TAMI WHITE

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.

Westborough

Thursday, Sept. 9

7:46 p.m. Arrested, Christopher C. Thompson, 37, of 16 Hartford W Ave., Mendon, for disorderly conduct, resist arrest, disturbing the peace.

Friday, Sept. 10

4:43 p.m. Arrested, Isaac M. Mutesasira, 30, of 297 Turnpike Rd., Apt. 315, Westborough, on trespass.

Monday, Sept. 13

5:27 p.m. Arrested, Mirabela Diana Roman, 25, of 25 Connector Rd., Apt. 426, Westborough, on A&B on police officer (2 cts).

Shrewsbury

Monday, Sept. 13

1:02 a.m. Arrested, Serena A. Zumpano, 51, of 125 Jamieson Rd., Holden, for OUI liquor, negligent operation of motor vehicle, leave scene of property damage.

Friday, Sept. 17

12:39 a.m. Arrested, Hillary Ochieng Angila, 51, of 20 O’Donnell Ave., Shrewsbury, on warrant.

Northborough

Friday, Sept. 10

2:01 a.m. Arrested, Neyson A. Argueta, 28, of 181 Boston Post Road E., Lot 29, Marlborough, for negligent operation of motor vehicle, OUI-liquor or .08%, marked lanes violation.

Monday, Sept. 13

11:31 a.m. Arrested, Eduardo Jose Vitorino, 46, of 16 Grove St., Apt. 1, Westborough, for op MV with license suspended, warrant, use electronic device while operating MV.

Southborough

Monday, Sept. 6

11:54 p.m. Arrested, Derrick T. Foster, of Katsikas Ave., Dracut, for op MV with license suspended, speeding/rate of speed exceeding posted limit.

Thursday, Sept. 9 1:35 a.m. Arrested, James F. Kreshpane, of Turnpike Rd., Southborough, for OUIliquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle.

Kevin P. Hunt, 40

DEATHS

Anketell, James of Southborough Barki, Scott of Grafton Cardosa, Blanca of Marlborough Faria, Rena of Hudson Grieve, Francis of Marlborough Hunt, Kevin of Shrewsbury Maccabee, Gordon of Northborough Marin, Antonio of Shrewsbury Mauro, William formerly of Southborough McGrath, Jeanne of Westborough Ricciuti, Paul of Marlborough Richard, David of Marlborough Rinker, Jean of Grafton and Shrewsbury Rosa, Sr. Margaret a Contemplative Sister of the Good Shepherd Shaw, Mary formerly of Westborough St. Denis, Andrew formerly of Hudson Vigeant, Patti Ann of Marlborough Viscomi, Anthony of Westborough Winslow, William of Grafton Zecco, David of Northborough

SHREWSBURY - With deepest sorrow, we announce that Kevin Patrick Hunt, 40, our beloved son, father, brother, uncle, nephew and friend, passed away unexpectedly on Sept. 10, 2021.

He will be missed deeply by his parents, Kevin M. and Maurya F. (Danahy) Hunt of Shrewsbury; his two sisters, Erin K. Duffy and her husband Morgan of Shrewsbury and Shannon M. Cafaro and her spouse Guylyn of Littleton; and nieces and nephews, Hayden, Bridjet, and Colin Duffy, Lucy and Luca Cafaro. He will also be deeply missed by many aunts, uncles, cousins and close friends.

The Chiampa Funeral Home of Shrewsbury assisted with arrangements.

Mary Lee Shaw, 64

SUTTON - Mary Lee (Colgan) Shaw, 64, died, peacefully, at

home, surrounded by family, following a lengthy illness on Sept. 11, 2021.

She is survived by her husband of 41 years, Peter B. Shaw; a daughter, Erin Piccioli and her husband Christopher of Sutton; two sons, Matthew Shaw and his wife Meagan of Westborough and Peter Shaw Jr. of Douglas; beloved grandchildren, Logan, Avery, Julianna, Lucas, Torin, and Mason; a brother, Peter Colgan of Millis; and two sisters, Brenda Colgan of Chelsea and Beth Chester of West Dennis. She was predeceased by siblings Paul Colgan and Linda Turnbull. Carr Funeral Home of Whitinsville assisted with arrangements.

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

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for a FREE Market Analysis: 508-934-9818

*2020 MLS Sales for Northborough