MH 230224

Marlborough Hudson

Senior Tax Work Off abatements to increase

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – Eligible residents in the Senior Citizen Tax Work Off Program will soon see a hike in their property tax abatements.

The City Council referred to its Finance Committee a measure to increase the limit in the Senior Citizen Tax Work Off Program from $1,000 to $1,500 during its Feb. 13, meeting.

“This program has been ongoing since my tenure as mayor, and we really value the services that our senior population offers to departments who may be shorthanded, or are in need of assistance because of additional seasonal workload. The City Council is allowing us to increase the abatement amount from $1,000 to $1,500 per homeowner. This is a win-win for us and our eligible seniors,” said Mayor Arthur Vigeant.

Under the program, residents age 60 and older who have resided in the city for at least five years and are eligible under income guidelines may work for the city in exchange for a one-time abatement of their property taxes.

Departments in Marlborough have used seniors who participate in the program in a number of ways, including as City Hall greeters, clerical help with the Board of Health and inspectional services, work with the engineering department and assisting with work on outdoor trails and maintenance and landscaping projects at public housing.

Kickball tournament scores for charity

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

HUDSON – For the first time in three years, kickball ruled the day at the Hudson/Concord Elks.

Sixteen teams vied to take the top spot at the 20th annual Snowflake Charity Kickball Tournament on Feb. 18. Across three fields and lasting into the afternoon, there were close plays, there were great plays, there were plays that made some people laugh and others scratch their heads.

But the main thing was to have some fun on a winter’s day (despite the lack of snowflakes) and to raise money to help three beneficiaries deal with medical issues.

“It’s going really well,” said Kim Otte, who served as the tournament director with her husband, Joe. “Everybody’s having a good

Hudson superintendent finalists to be announced by end of month

By Sarah Freedman Contributing Writer

HUDSON – With the announcement by Superintendent Marco Rodrigues that he will retire in June, the Hudson School Committee has set out to find a new superintendent for the next school year.

At the Feb. 14 School Committee meeting, Chair Michele Tousignant Dufour noted the

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Screening Committee began their work on Feb. 6 and will continue through Feb. 17. Finalists will be announced on Feb. 28 at the latest.

In-district visits for candidates will be scheduled with a goal of a date in the first week of March to ensure that visits go smoothly and do not conflict with Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) interviews later in the month.

PHOTO/MAUREEN SULLIVAN Kickball |

Connor’s Crew competed against the Walker Way Winners during the 20th annual Snowflake Charity Kickball Tournament on Feb. 18.

Get to know Westborough’s candidates on the ballot

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – Candidates for elected office in the town will take part in a Candidates Forum sponsored by the Westborough Democratic Town Committee.

The event is scheduled for Sunday, March 5, at 6 p.m. The event will be virtual as was done in the two previous years. Please RSVP via www. mobilize.us/candidateforum/ event/550784/ for this event for viewing details and for information on submitting questions.

Information will also be available at https://westboroughtv. org/ prior to the forum.

Candidates for Select Board, School Committee, town clerk, town moderator, Trustees of Library, Planning Board and Trustees of Soldiers Memorial have been invited.

The election will take place on March 14. Polls will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the high school.

“This is a great opportunity to hear from those candidates seeking your vote in March and to ask questions of the candidates,” said Kate Donaghue,

chair of the sponsoring group. “We very much appreciate the citizens who serve the town so generously and who take the time to meet with voters at Candidates Forum.”

The Westborough Democratic Town Committee sponsors this event every year as a service to the town and to encourage voters to become participants in the election process.

“Democracy is not a spectator sport,” said Donaghue.

There are contested races for School Committee and Library Board of Trustees. Paula Mathieu, Jakub Moskal and Sarah Shamsuddin are candidates for School Committee. Debra Cushman, Michael Karp, Dot Mello and Julia Rissmiller are all candidates for library trustees. Jeanine Mindrum and Ciaran O’Donnell are both running for a one-year term as a library trustee.

A number of candidates are unopposed: Ian Johnson for Select Board; Hazel Nourse and John Gelcich for Planning Board; John Arnold for town moderator; Deborah Ledoux for town clerk; Brian Corcoran for Trustees of Soldiers Memorial.

No one pulled papers for the Trustees of Soldiers Memorial’s three-year seat (non-veteran).

Candidates | 3

Sign up for Farmers Market

WESTBOROUGH – Vendor applications are now being accepted for this season’s Farmers Market.

Apply online via https:// forms.gle/Z5sMttYHLJQpzzrm9.

Applications are due Wednesday, March 1. Notifications will be sent by organizers by March 17 regarding application status.

If you are a musician or entertainment, please email farmers@westboroughrotary.org with your name, phone number and links to your social media and samples of your work.

The market will take place on Thursdays from 2 to 6 p.m. from June to October at Congregation B’nai Shalom, 117 East Main St. It is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Westborough.

For information, visit www. westboroughrotary.org/page/ farmers-market.

OVER TOP THE

NORTHBOROUGH – Drone photography show the Proctor Elementary School roof. The Board of Selectmen recently released $1.7 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds for the replacement of the roof. Originally, the school district sought funding from the Massachusetts School Building Authority to fund the project, but the authority has said its accelerated repair program for roofs was on hold because the market and supply chair affected the bid results from already-awarded projects.

The Community Advocate’s Policy on Letters to the Editor

All letters should be 350 words or less. Letters should be emailed to news@communityadvocate.com and managingeditor@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 as they are deemed suitable and as space allows. Letters that contain personal attacks will not be printed. Opinions expressed in the letters to the editor do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Community Advocate or its advertisers.

The Northborough Planning Board recently received a petition by town citizens regarding concerns about the Metrowest Collaborative Development proposal for the restoration of the White Cliffs mansion and building affordable housing units on the property. Certainly a project of this magnitude will come with many legitimate community concerns and questions regarding the impact on the town.

It is important to keep in mind that this is a proposal and not a final contract. As such, there is the potential for modifications to the proposal to better fit the community’s concerns.

letters to the editor

Metrowest Collaborative Development is planning to schedule several community outreach forums for input into their proposal.

A project of this magnitude needs to be decided by a community vote at Town Meeting. It was at the April 2016 Town Meeting that the voters voted in favor of purchasing the property. My recommendation is that any near-term decisions by the Board of Selectmen and Planning Board regarding the White Cliffs property should provide a pathway to having this project brought forward as a Town Meeting vote. The best option would be to have a dedicated special Town Meeting in the fall of 2023 to thoroughly review and discuss the Metrowest proposal. A fall Town Meeting will give the community ample time to consider, research and provide input into the final contract.

— Normand Corbin , Northborough

Candidates for town election

Candidates | from page 2

The Westborough Democratic Town Committee is the local organization of the Democratic Party. For more information on the town committee or the Candidates Forum, please contact Donaghue at 508-404-

8531 or by email at KateDonaghue@aol.com.

In addition, the Westborough Public Library invites the public to meet the candidates for Board of Library Trustees on Wednesday, March 1, from 7 to 8 p.m. at the library.

Ryan Maloney, owner

The Judgment of Paris – Part II

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The Community Advocate is a weekly periodical, (U.S.P.S. # 014-423), published by Bagdon Advertising, Inc., with offices located at 32 South Street, Westborough, MA 01581. Periodicals postage is paid at Westborough, MA 01581 and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Please send address changes to: Community Advocate, 32 South Street, Westborough, MA 01581. Publication date is Friday. Deadline for R.O.P. advertising, local community news and classified advertising is Friday, noon, seven days prior to publication. Not liable for typographical errors, however, we will reprint that portion of the ad wherein error occurred if notified in writing within three working days of the publication date. All material included is the property of The Community Advocate and may include material produced under copyright or a syndicated ad service. Permission must be obtained in writing before reproducing any material from any issue of the Community Advocate.

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In 1976, a Paris wine merchant arranged a blind tasting of French and Californian wines. At that time French wines were considered the best wines available. Much to people’s amazement, the panel of French judges selected a Cabernet Sauvignon from Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars as the best. The famous tasting proved that world-class wines could come from other wine-growing regions. In 2006, a second blind tasting was arranged using the same vintages of red wines. The perception was that although California reds were tasty, they would not have the ability to age as well as their French counterparts. Panels of judges tasted wines that were now 30 years older. Scores were tallied, and the top five winners were from California!

At JULIO’S LIQUORS we offer a wide variety of fine wines, spirits, beer, and tobacco. We also have many other unique items that set us apart from the average liquor store. Our wine department carries over 3,000 labels from 16 different countries. Our beer department contains one of the largest selections of microbrews, domestics, imports, Belgians and Trappist beers, totaling over 1,000 beers in stock! For more information, please call 508-366-1942. We are located at 140 Turnpike Rd., Rt. 9 East

HINT: The Cabernet Sauvignon wines from California in the 1970’s were less ripe, contained less alcohol, and were more restrained than many of today’s versions.

If you like our Un-cork’d article every week, check out our radio show & podcast –It’s

Live show every Saturday, 11 am on WCRN AM830

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DON’T MISS JULIO’S AD ON PAGE 2

PHOTO/TAMI WHITE

New plan is an important step for preserving Northborough’s history

NORTHBOROUGH

THEN NOW

By Normand Corbin History Columnist

NORTHBOROUGH – North -

borough’s first Historic Preservation Plan was recently completed. This plan is the road map for Historic Preservation in Northborough for the next 10 to 15 years. It is based on the 2020 Northborough Master Plan. The Master Plan contains overall goals for historic preservation while the Historic Preservation Plan contains specific tasks to accomplish the goals.

The plan was written by the members of the Northborough Historic District Commission with support from the Massachusetts Historical Commission, Northborough Historical Society, Northborough Town Planner, Northborough Planning Board and the Northbor-

ough Conservation Agent.

Continuing education was identified as the highest priority. One part of the education priority is to bring an awareness of Northborough history to the community. This will be accomplished by continuing to work with local organizations to promote historical information. Promotion will include continuing the monthly programs offered by the Historical Society, preparing articles for

local news outlets and continuing the historic marker program. In addition, teaming with the Northborough schools, the library, and cable access are encouraged.

Another part of educational outreach is to bring an awareness of preservation options to the community and especially to historic property owners. Three key approaches for historic property preservation are listing in the National Register

of Historic Places, designating properties within a local historic district, and protecting properties with preservation restrictions. In addition, there are preservation options for open space lands which in the past were farms, woodlots or meadows. All preservation options have different advantages. It will be important to understand their differences and determine which is most beneficial to a property owner. One key aspect to these preservation methods is that property owners have control over the processes.

Several key tasks were identified, including increasing the number of historical properties and historical lands protected, preserving historic documents, repairing the many damaged grave markers in the Howard Street Cemetery, and finding ways to financially support historic restoration and preservation. Additional tasks include working with the Trails Committee to convert the Aqueduct Trail to a multiuse trail and

open the aqueduct over the Assabet River for pedestrian traffic. Having an archeological assessment prepared for the town to identify areas that may contain archeological and early colonial artifacts was also noted as a necessary project.

In addition to the historic plan chapter, the preservation plan document also includes chapters containing an overview of Northborough history, a review of prior Northborough historic preservation efforts, and the current status of historic preservation in Northborough. There is also an appendix with state laws and Northborough bylaws related to historic preservation. Printed copies of the plan are available at the library, Senior Center and Planning Department.

The plan is also available online at: https://www.town.northborough.ma.us/sites/g/files/ vyhlif3571/f/uploads/nb_historic_preservation_plan_2022. pdf

One of the goals of Northborough’s first Historic Preservation Plan is to reopen the Wachusett Aqueduct over the Assabet River, seen here in 1899 with its stairway leading to Hudson Street, to pedestrian traffic.

PHOTO/COURTESY OF DIGITAL COMMONWEALTH

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – A former automotive paint distributor at 272 Lincoln St. is closer to becoming a 12-unit multifamily dwelling – without the billboard.

Attorney Terrence P. Morris and Charles Zammuto, the manager for 272 Lincoln LLC, appeared before the City Council’s Urban Affairs Committee on Feb. 9. They sought a special permit to convert the site into

multifamily housing.

The plans include 12 twobedroom units, 24 accessory parking spaces (18 garaged and 6 open-air), a pocket park and other landscaped areas.

Under the special permit, a billboard at the site will be removed and not replaced.

On Dec. 13, 2022, the Site Plan Review Committee reviewed the application for the special permit. In its report to Urban Affairs, the committee said it “was pleased with this development design, layout

Marlborough officials request midyear budget transfers

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – Reimbursements for fuel costs, funding a new position and contract negotiations were among the reasons city departments requested midyear budget transfers totaling more than $1.6 million.

The transfers were brought up during the City Council’s meeting on Monday, Feb. 13.

The city’s finance office is requesting $25,100 from the vacant principal clerk position to cover the newly created replacement position of treasury/ payroll manager through June 30. The Auditor’s Department is requesting $117,000 to help the city pursue tax-delinquent properties.

In a letter to Mayor Arthur Vigeant, Director of Finance Patrick Jones said, “There is a property that for many years has been in tax title. The city has acquired this troubled property. The city’s ownership and control of this property is being challenged in multiple courts. Litigation is ongoing and in full thrust, and expected to be resolved in the next 18 months.”

Jones is requesting $98,000 to cover anticipated legal fees through June 30 and $19,000 to help cover fees in its other services account through June 30.

In other transfer requests, the Fort Meadow Commission will require $1,200 to increase the fuel reimbursement for members. Additionally, $117,400 was requested for four police officer retirements, $41,700 for one firefighter

retirement and an additional $235,000 for anticipated contractual negotiations.

Another request was $156,803 to offset Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School’s amended assessment.

The information technology department is requiring $59,500 to cover the phone upgrades for the city and school department to keep them compliant with the state regulations, and the fire department will require a transfer for $86,500 for equipment, equipment repair and maintenance, and emergency events that required mutual aid and increased rehabilitation expenses.

The Department of Public Works is requesting a transfer in the amount of $730,500 to cover various expenses, including pump repairs; building maintenance and repair; and an increase in costs for chemicals for water treatment. Most of these funds will come from the DPW’s solid waste disposal account.

Human Resources is requesting $22,775 for the director’s salary line item and anticipated additional training requests by department heads. The Board of Health will require $1,072 to cover sick leave buy back and longevity that was mistakenly omitted from the 2023 fiscal year budget. The legal office will require $48,500 to fully fund outside council due to unbudgeted services.

The requests have been sent to the council’s Finance Committee.

and landscaping concept presented. We were also pleased to know that this will be a carbon free/net zero development.

“This project will require full site plan review once it receives a special permit from City Council. The committee will flush out specific details on the site design and mechanics at that time. We have also re-

viewed the draft special permit conditions and note that these now incorporate comments we had on crosswalk painting and traffic sight distance,” the report said.

Urban Affairs discussed several issues during the Feb. 9 meeting, including snow removal, the installation of benches, parking and access to

A

the Assabet Rail Trail. Zammuto said that should everything go according to plan, the old building could be torn down in late spring. Urban Affairs voted to approve the special permit with amended conditions. It went before the City Council on Feb. 13 in order to have the permit sent to the city’s solicitor.

This photo shows the former site of Finishmaster on Lincoln Street.

developer is proposing to a 12-unit multifamily dwelling.

PHOTO/MAUREEN SULLIVAN

Wildwood restaurant in Marlborough closes its doors

Customers line up in front of Wildwood last Saturday following news of its closure.

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH – The Board of Selectmen plans to hire a consultant to help them hire the town’s next administrator.

This comes after Town Administrator John Coderre was named the new Town Manager of Foxborough in January.

could range between $10,000 to $20,000 for the town to conduct an executive-level search.

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – Dinnertime on a late Saturday afternoon.

At the Wildwood steakhouse restaurant on Boston Post Road East, about 40 customers waited for the doors to open.

For many of them, the Wildwood has been part of their lives.

“We’ve been coming here for our anniversary for 34

For all of them, it was a chance to say goodbye.

After nearly a century in business, the Wildwood closed its doors this weekend.

According to a Facebook post on Feb. 16, the steakhouse shut down because owner Gerry Seymour is retiring.

Diners past and present were quick to post their memories on social media. For many, the Wildwood was the setting for celebrations from weddings to graduations.

“Since my first campaign volunteering for Bob Durand for state Senate, spending more time in Marlborough, I have always enjoyed the Wildwood for a great dinner,” said state Sen. Jamie Eldridge. “As someone who recently moved to Marlborough, I’m particularly sad to see such a Marlborough institution close.”

On Saturday, Feb. 18, the first batch of final customers began to gather just outside the main entrance.

“We’re really sad to see it go,” said Helen Young of Sudbury, who was there with her husband, Scott. “It’s going to be a loss for sure.”

“I just love the restaurant,” said Hilda.

“It’s the end of an era,” said Henry Pacific, a lifelong Marlborough resident who used to go pheasant hunting with Seymour.

The restaurant will reopen under new ownership.

His last day at the helm of Northborough will be April 7. However, Coderre planned to use vacation time during the last week, and his last working day will be March 31.

According to Board of Selectmen Chair Mitch Cohen during the Feb. 13 meeting, before Coderre leaves, the selectmen will need to appoint an interim town administrator.

He said his preference would be to look externally and internally for the next town administrator.

The Board of Selectmen intends to issue a request for proposals to hire a consulting firm who would guide the selectmen through the process and help the town with input, such as surveys or community input sessions.

According to Coderre, it

Cohen said the consultant would help the board update the job description for town administrator and help them advertise an appropriate salary. The board may choose to form a search committee that would oversee the collection of resumes and screen the candidate to move before the Board of Selectmen.

The board would then hold public interviews of the candidates before making a selection.

The selectmen also voted to place an article before Town Meeting remove the residency requirement for town administrator. Coderre said during a Jan. 23 meeting that this requirement dated back to 1970.

“It’s a little bit different times today. Most families have dual careers. It’s become very difficult to find managers that are willing and able to relocate,” said Coderre.

There would be an article on Town Meeting warrant to authorize a petition to the Legislature for a special act to amend the charter to remove the residency requirement.

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

HUDSON – Community members gathered on Feb. 15 for the official ribbon cutting of the new Alltown Fresh.

“We’re so excited to be here in Hudson,” said senior marketing adviser Chip Rives.

The Hudson location marks the seventh store opened over the past 10 months.

Located at 240 Washington St., the property was formerly the site of Tuck’s Service Center. After operating for 69 years, the Tuck’s Service Center

closed in 2021, and at that time owner Marty Libby announced that he was leasing the property to Global Petroleum Co. Rives said that the first Alltown Fresh was opened in 2019.

“[We tried] to reinvent roadside food and bring fresh, locally sourced, delicious, chefinspired and created food to your neighborhood. We’re excited to be here in Hudson,” said Rives.

During the ribbon cutting, community members presented a citation from Sen. Jamie Eldridge (D-Acton) and Rep. Kate Hogan (D-Stow).

The Wildwood steakhouse restaurant closed last Saturday.

PHOTO/ MAUREEN SULLIVAN

Chip Rives, Matt Spencer, Micah Coffey, Joshua Smith and Sarah Cressy cut the ribbon on the new Alltown Fresh.

years,” said Wayne McFarland, who was there with his wife, Donna.

PHOTO/LAURA HAYES

Marlborough builds street hockey rink at Ghiloni Park City Council approves appointments

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – The City Council confirmed several appointments from the Mayor’s Office during its Feb. 13, meeting.

year contract with a salary of $98,000.

Diane Smith was appointed as city auditor for a threeyear term to expire on Feb. 24, 2026.

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – Street

hockey players won’t have to go to Hudson or Leominster to find a Dek rink.

Come this spring, there will be a new rink at Ghiloni Park.

“It looks like a regular rink, but it will be for street hockey,” said City Engineer Tom DePersio.

Instead of skates and pucks, street hockey is played with sneakers, tennis balls, knee pads, gloves and a plastic-blade stick.

It’s also known as “Dek” hockey, for the materials used for the surfaces.

“I had discussed this proj-

ect with Bobby Butler prior to COVID, and the city is now able to get this project done,” said Mayor Arthur Vigeant. “I think our youth will get a lot of enjoyment out of the Dek hockey rink.”

Butler is a resident and Marlborough High alum who played for several teams in the National Hockey League, including the Ottawa Senators. He is currently playing for the Worcester Railers.

The rink is scheduled to be ready this spring.

“We’ve really lucked out on the weather,” he said.

The project is a collaboration between the Recreation Department and the mayor’s office.

Marlborough receives state grants to repair water facilities

By Maureen Sullivan

Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH

– A pair of state grants will help the city’s Department of Public Works upgrade its water facilities.

During its meeting on Feb. 13, the City Council approved the state’s Office of Travel and Tourism grants totaling $175,000.

The Westerly Water Treatment Plant will receive $75,000 for upgrades and repairs, and the Williams Lake pumping station will receive $100,000 to replace its roof.

The funds must be used by June 30.

Chad Carter was appointed as executive director of the Marlborough Community Development Authority (MCDA). Carter, a former summer intern, began his career in the community development office in 2015 as an administrative assistant, where he quickly grew into the finance director role. Carter took over as interim director last March.

The MCDA board had approved a one-year contract as interim director, and according to the Mayor Arthur Vigeant’s office, it neglected to send the contract to the City Council. The MCDA board recently approved a three-

“Smith is a valued and dedicated member of my team who keeps us in compliance with the Department of Revenue and Division of Local Services,” said Vigeant. “She is instrumental in assisting with the budget process and is often an information source for all city department heads.”

Veterans’ Agent Mike Hennessy was appointed for a three-year term to expire March 23, 2026.

“Mr. Hennessy has a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by veterans, and he has worked tirelessly to ensure that they receive the benefits and support they deserve,” said Vigeant. “His attention to detail, commit-

ment to providing exceptional services to each veteran, and dedication to the job leads me to the reappointment of Mr. Hennessy. I am confident that Mr. Hennessy will continue to serve our veterans with the same level of dedication and hard work that he has shown throughout his career here in Marlborough.”

The mayor’s office also recommended, and the City Council approved, the following appointments:

Patricial D. Gallier and Leslie L. Biggar, reappointed to the Council on Aging, each for a four-year term to expire on May 4, 2026.

The Library Board of Trustees Thomas J. Abel, expiring on Jan. 7, 2025; William F. Brewin Jr., expiring on Sept. 23, 2024; Rustin S. Kyle, expiring on Sept. 23, 2024; Janice M. Merk, expiring on Feb. 2, 2024 and Robyn M. Ripley, expiring on Feb. 1, 2025.

Eliminate

Sponsored by Chief Joseph Robert J. Terkanian

from your heart forever, all hatred, resentment, jealousy and grudges. You must sincerely forgive everyone against whom you hold resentment. In so far as it is humanly possible, make amends for any wrong you have done to other persons. If no amends are possible, pray that God in His own way will make it right for you. Then ask to be forgiven. Believe that the matter in cancelled out, and forget it.

anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself.

A new street hockey rink is scheduled to open this spring at Ghiloni Park.

PHOTO/MAUREEN SULLIVAN

PHOTO/MAUREEN SULLIVAN

The pumping station at Lake Williams will be getting a new roof, thanks to a state grant.

Carter appointed as MCDA executive director; Smith appointed as city auditor

HOMES MORE&

Fossil fuel to be eliminated in new home construction

Anupdate to the Building Stretch Code begins its implementation this July and becomes the new norm on January 1, 2024 when new construction homes will be required to meet lower HERS ratings thus forcing builders to build homes completely electric.

Any building permit applications submitted after July 1st will be required to adhere to the new stretch code which has more stringent energy efficiency requirements to help the state reach its ambitious greenhouse gas emissions goals of a 50 percent reduction by 2030, and net-zero emissions by 2050.

508-826-7661

lisasells@remaxexec.com www.lisashawsells.com

One local builder is being very pro-active and has already started constructing to these new standards. Ron Henault of Henault Builders, Inc. of Grafton MA started permitting a 13 acre site, Mike’s Way named after his Uncle who previously owned the land almost 2 years

ago. When Ron learned of the new upcoming code and how he could offer homeowners a more comfortable way of life, he saw no reason not to get started right away.

The first 2 homes in this 18 home cul-de-sac community offers Zero Energy Ready homes in accordance with the new, updated 2023 Stretch Code which is more stringent and requires the houses to be built to a higher energy efficiency. Because of this our HERS ratings are consistently 44-45. The homes are heated with electric forced hot air furnaces and hybrid electric water heaters. They are also

insulated and sealed to meet the higher energy code as well creating a Net Zero or Zero energy home. What that means is if the owner installs solar panels, the house will create more energy than it actually consumes resulting in little to no utility costs for the homeowners. The new code also requires ERV’s (energy recovery ventilator) in each home. These  ERV (energy recovery ventilator) helps control humidity levels in your home, cleans your indoor air and saves you money on utilities. Together these systems save you money and provide you better air quality!

Two models are being offered, a 1650 SF one level ranch and a 2200 SF ranch with a large bonus room on the 2nd level. While these are condos, there is nothing attached above ground and there is no HOA fee.

Each homeowner has exclusive use of their half of the lot and maintains their own yard and driveway or can opt into a landscaping service if they prefer. There is town water and a separate septic system at each home. The street, Mike’s Way is lined with vintage look street lights and finished with sidewalks and will become a town street maintained and plowed by the town. These homes along with being front runners in energy efficiency also offer a great location within 10 miles of Routes 495 and 146 and surrounded by several small towns with plenty of local grocery stores and restaurants, they’re the new, healthier, more comfortable way to live! Check it out at www.mikesway.info

Lisa Shaw, Remax Executive Realty 508 826-7661

Affordable Housing Trust builds on success

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – The town’s Affordable Housing Trust (AHT) has been busy.

Shrewsbury St., Worcester, MA 01604 OFFICE: 774-823-3441 • MOBILE: 774-242-8832 office@remaxdiverse.com • www.remaxdiverse.com

During a presentation before the Advisory/Finance Committee on Feb. 13, Trust and Select Board member Allen Edinberg provided a highlight of some of the programs and projects undertaken by the trust.

According to Edinberg and the AHT’s annual report to the town, the AHT enacted a

“COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Program” to help families impacted by the pan-

This house at 3 Baylor Ave. is among the projects under the supervision of the Affordable Housing Trust.

demic. MetroWest Collaborative Development, a nonprofit Affordable Housing | 9

508-366-7693

508-839-5961

owner Steve Stratton

Lisa Y. Shaw

Broker Associate

PHOTO/MAUREEN SULLIVAN

Sharp Building to be converted into homeless shelter

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – The Sharp Building at 288 Lyman St. will soon welcome up to 20 homeless families.

During the Select Board meeting on Feb. 14, Town Manager Kristi Williams said that several town department heads and members of the local legislative delegation have met with officials from the state Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) to discuss the plans for the shelter.

Williams added that priority for placement would be for families with ties to the Westborough area to allow students to remain in their schools.

“Massachusetts is a ‘right to shelter’ state, meaning that DHCD is obligated to provide shelter to eligible families. To be considered eligible, families must meet a number of criteria, including Massachusetts residency and have at least one child under 21,” she said.

According to Williams, some homeless families have been housed in hotels in the area, but “that’s not a desirable option.”

Specifically, the McKinneyVento Homeless Assistance Act guarantees that homeless students have the right to remain enrolled in their school of origin and receive transportation or immediately enroll in the school district where they

are temporary residents, according to a frequently asked questions published by the town.

“Any placement determinations must be based on the best interest of the student,” the town wrote.

This weighs the impact of mobility on the student’s safety, achievement, education and health as well as where their siblings are placed for school. The priority is given to the request of the unaccompanied youth or their parent or guardian, according to the town.

Governor Maura Healey’s latest supplemental budget calls for additional school funding as well as per pupil funding from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), and trans-

portation costs for students that live outside of their district are shared between the districts they are enrolled and sheltered in. The latter costs are eligible for reimbursement through DESE.

Sharp Building to be renovated

According to the FAQ, Westborough officials became aware of the shelter when state officials began contacting town departments involved in permitting about upgrades and renovations to the building.

The town and its legislative delegation had a meeting with state officials earlier this month.

The Sharp Building is part of a facility operated by the

Affordable Housing Trust builds on success

Affordable Housing | from page 8 specializing in vetting and administering funding for those in need of housing assistance, provided the administrative support for this program.

Because of the continued need for assistance, this program continued into 2022.

The trust partnered with Westborough Youth and Family Services, the town’s COVID-19 Relief Fund and local nonprofits for outreach and to assist with helping households apply for assistance.

The program, which recently ended, has helped more than 50 individuals across 17 households in town.

On the topic of 3 Baylor Ave., a three-bedroom house

that the town had taken for unpaid taxes, Edinberg said the AHT is waiting on a request for proposals to be finalized.

The AHT has emptied the house of all its contents and secured the property.

Due to asbestos in the floor and roof, the house currently on the site will be torn down, and a new affordable unit built.

He also discussed possible projects on town-owned properties, including on Endicott Drive near Chauncy Beach, and at 2 Rogers Road, the site of the Westborough Housing Authority.

The AHT also plans to offer a first-time home buyers program, said Edinberg.

The presentation included a

discussion on Article 16 before Town Meeting, which requests a transfer of $600,000 from the town’s Stabilization Fund (Mitigation) to the AHT.

The funds come from Pulte Homes for the Del Webb Chauncy Lake development.

Article 16 has received support from the Planning Board. The Advisory/Finance Committee will be voting on all Town Meeting articles in March.

Town Meeting will convene on Saturday, March 25, at Westborough High School.

To view the latest draft, visit www.town.westborough. ma.us/home/news/draft2023-annual-town-meetingwarrant-version-6.

The Sharp Building on Lyman Street will welcome up to 20 families this spring.

Department of Youth Services.

A portion of that building will be renovated to house these families.

Once housed, the families will be assisted by the South Middlesex Opportunity Council (SMOC) and other agencies. There would be a 24/7 on-site presence.

Details are still being worked out, said Williams.

Town departments are assessing what requirements would be necessary for the building to accommodate a shelter, including long-term stay, health and fire codes.

The FAQ noted that the department doesn’t require local approval to site a shelter.

According to the FAQ, DHCD plans to begin placing the families in Westborough in May, though that’s pending the completion of the work at the Sharp Building.

SMOC and DESE will work with Westborough Public School Superintendent Amber Bock to enroll any children who aren’t already enrolled in area schools.

If you have additional questions that are not answered in the FAQ, please contact the Westborough Town Manager’s Office at 508-366-3030. To support those in the shelter, contact SMOC at 508-8724853 or visit www.smoc.org.

PHOTO/MAUREEN SULLIVAN

Snowflake Charity Kickball Tournament scores for charity

Kickball | from page 1

time.”

Bernards Bombers played in honor of Michael Bernard, who served the Marlborough/Hudson area as a paramedic for 20 years. He died in January, days after he was diagnosed with pancreatic and liver cancer.

“There are a lot of co-workers on this team,” said Shauna O’Brien.

Proceeds also helped Ed Sheldon, a local volunteer who was diagnosed with ALS last year; and Martha Fulham, a lifelong resident of the Marlborough/Hudson area who had been diagnosed with cancer. She has been an active volunteer with the Marlborough Eagles for many years.

The Eagles fielded a team, as did the Marlborough Fire Department, the Bolton Street Tavern, Walker Development and Construction Management, and the Marlborough Shamrocks.

“We’re a group of friends having a good time,” said Caitlyn Lucht of Hudson, a member

of the team Slim Kickens.

“It’s a big benefit, and it’s been great,” said Dan Marlborough of Sartorius, a pharmaceutical company in Marlborough.

In addition to the tournament, there was a raffle, live music and plenty of food. Several persons and organizations also sponsored a base.

“I want to do a shoutout to Bob Kays of the Prospector … he donated a lot of the food,” said Kim Otte.

For information, visit www. facebook.com/snowflakekb, or email snowflakekick@gmail. com.

Five secrets to treat plantar fasciitis at home

By Dr. Donald Pelto Podiatrist

One of the main symptoms of plantar fasciitis is pain when getting up in the morning, on the �irst step out of bed. It can hurt on the bottom of the heel and then it gets better after about �ive or ten minutes. It also hurts after prolonged sitting or driving because the back of the leg becomes tight.

Deep tissue massage with a foam roller and “aggressive stretching” are the best and easiest ways to improve symptoms at home. Changing shoes is

Senior Tax Work Off abatements to increase

Senior work off | from page 1

another option to have less pain. I’ve put together this guide that has already helped many of my patients (Scan the QR code on the picture using your phone). If you have heel pain that is not going away, call 508-757-4003 or TEXT 508-625-7775 for a visit. This article was edited and condensed. Read the full feature at www.centralmasspodiatry.com/blog

“We can usually apply most skill sets and welcome eligible residents to apply,” said Vigeant.

Upon approval, the changes will become effective on March 1. According to Vigeant in a letter to the council, the program will continue to be funded through the city’s Overlay Account.

“This increase will be beneficial to our eligible seniors who are on fixed incomes and struggle with the increase in

groceries and average cost of living expenses,” said Vigeant. The city adopted the property tax work off program in fiscal 2013.

The deadline to apply for the 2024 program has been extended until Friday, March 3. The program will run from April to June and again from September to November.

A link for information and an application can be found via www.marlborough-ma.gov/ council-aging/pages/propertytax-work-information.

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— Caitlyn Lucht of Hudson, a member of the team Slim Kickens

Above: After a three-year hiatus, the 20th annual Snowflake Charity Kickball Tournament drew 16 teams to the Hudson/ Concord Elks on Feb. 18.

Left: Sartorius was among 16 teams taking part in the 20th annual Snowflake Charity Kickball Tournament on Feb. 18, at the Hudson/Concord Elks.

PHOTOS/MAUREEN SULLIVAN

Agricultural restriction removed at former Green Thumb nursery site

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – Although formal plans have yet to go before town boards, the McGovern Auto Group took a big step recently with the former Green Thumb nursery site at 371 Turnpike Road.

When the business purchased the former nursery

Aging Gracefully

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

MINDFULNESS ACTIVITIES

Mindfulness is a term frequently heard in conversations on mental health, but what exactly is it and how can it bene t the senior community? Mindfulness is an umbrella term that includes brain healthy activities such as meditation, breathing exercises, journaling, and mood tracking. Stress management is one the most signi cant bene ts of practicing mindfulness, but it can also be incredibly helpful with memory, improving mood and temperament, and increasing attentiveness, alertness, and cognition. It has even been proven to help people with pain relief. Mindfulness practice goes beyond basic meditation to include things such as listening to music, therapeutic coloring, daily habit rituals, and body scanning, which is the conscious act of connecting to each part of your physical self..

A healthy lifestyle that combines moderate exercise, nutrition, and regular mental stimulation can help prevent and slow the progression of many age-related neurological conditions. In addition, reducing stress and anxiety with mindfulness practice plays an important role in improving and protecting brain health. At NOTRE DAME LONG TERM CARE, we understand that our residents’ needs can change overnight. Please call (508) 852-3011 to learn more about our long-term care center at 559 Plantation Street.

P.S Mind mapping is a mindfulness activity that can help people with cognitive di culties organize their thoughts in a manner that lowers stress and frustration.

Notre Dame Health Care

Long Term Care

559 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA

508.852.3011 notredamehealthcare.org

from the McGoldrick family in 2022, the property had an agricultural deed restriction put on by the state, according to Jonathan Steinberg of the assessor’s office.

“In order to change the use, they had to go through a process with DCAMM [Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance] to get the property appraised as a restricted agricultural property and as an unrestricted property with al-

Seniors on the move

Goddard Homestead purchases Saint Peter-Marian High School for Future Senior Living Development

WORCESTER, MA: On December 30, 2021

Goddard Homestead Inc. closed on the purchase of the 23.7 acre Saint Peter-Marian High School property located at 781 Grove Street in a transaction brokered by Kelleher & Sadowsky. The site will be the future home of a new senior living campus that will stay true to Goddard Homestead’s mission of serving moderateincome seniors of Worcester. Goddard Homestead is a non-profit senior living provider that has been serving the Worcester community for nearly 150 years. Their mission is to provide housing and aging services to those who do not financially qualify for HUD housing and cannot afford more expensive senior living options (commonly referred to as the “Forgotten Middle”). The

The new community is anticipated to open for residency in late 2024. Early reservation opportunities for future residents began in spring of 2022. Construction is expected to take approximately 20 months beginning in spring of 2023. For more information, please contact Joan Cusson or Tracey King, Marketing Director, at 508-753-4890 or visit www.GoddardHomestead.org.

Goddard / Homestead A Legacy of Providing Exceptional Senior Care Since 1874 For information contact Tracey King at (508)868-0967 www.goddardhomestead.org

lowed use under existing zoning,” said Steinberg.

McGovern Auto Group paid the state $1.7 million in compensation in order to have the restriction removed.

“The appraisal process was defined by legislation and was reviewed by the inspector general prior to the property being released,” said Steinberg.

The closing and lien release was recorded at the Worcester Registry of Deeds on Friday, Feb. 10.

The former Green Thumb nursery at 371 Turnpike Road recently had its agricultural restriction removed.

PHOTO/MAUREEN SULLIVAN

Project is designed efficiently to reduce project costs in order to offer a practical senior living alternative that will be below the average cost of other market rate communities in the area.

Westborough forms Country Club Building Use Committee Applications available for Corridor 9/495 scholarships

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – While the Recreation Department is preparing for the new season at the Westborough Golf Club, a new committee will help determine the future of the club’s building.

During the Select Board’s meeting on Feb. 14, members voted to form the Country Club Building Use Committee. It will consist of seven members – one from the Select Board; one from the Recreation Commission or the recreation director; the town manager or her designee; the club’s golf pro; the Department of Public Works director; a resident who’s an active member of the country club; and two residents who are not active members of the golf club, with a preference for residents who reside full time in town.

The committee’s charge is to recommend whether or not the town should consider significant capital investment in the country club building whether it be renovation or construction. The committee will also identify the expected use of the building considering the needs of the golf course, pro shop and maintenance barn. Specifically, they will address any level of food service desired and consider other recreational uses or community needs that may be addressed by the building.

The committee will make its recommendation by Oct. 1.

The Select Board will appoint its member representative at the Feb. 28 meeting, and the Recreation Commission will need to appoint its representative.

Letters of interest must be

received at the Select Board’s office by March 10. Hard copies can be mailed to 34 West Main St., Westborough MA 01581 OR emailed to cdorr@town.westborough.ma.us.

It is anticipated that the Select Board will make the resident appointments at their meeting on March 14, and the work of the committee shall commence forthwith.

“There will be a lot of interest,” said Select Board member Sean Keogh.

A building assessment conducted by the town over the winter found that the country club building needs about $800,000 in repairs. In late January, the Select Board opted to not extend a request for proposals to lease out space for a restaurant.

As a result, the Civic Kitchen & Drink, which had been operating in that space since 2015, shut down.

The pro shop will remain at the building, and it will be open for the season.

Recreation Department requests

Recreation Department Director Jenn Kirkland presented an update on requests the department is making for the

upcoming Town Meeting.

Kirkland said that because of the needs assessment, the department decided to hold off on a request for $50,000 for a golf simulator.

A request of $50,000 for a new utility tractor remains on the warrant. The tractor is used to help maintain the golf course. According to Kirkland, the current tractor is about 30 years old, and it has become unreliable.

There is also a request of $10,000 to upgrade the lights at the tennis and basketball courts at Haskell Field.

REGION – The Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of Commerce has announced that its 2023 scholarship application is now available.

An applicant must be a 2023 graduating high school student pursuing a business degree or trade certification and residing in one of the core towns of the Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of Commerce (Westborough, Northborough, Southborough and Shrewsbury).

Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership, work and/or internship experience, essay, financial need and appearance of application.

The chamber will award a total of $16,600 in scholarships. Application deadline is Friday, March 3. Applications postmarked after the deadline date or not fully completed when submitted will not be considered.

Completed application must be mailed or delivered to Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of Commerce, 30 Lyman St., Suite 6, Westborough MA 01581.

Since the establishment of the scholarship program in 1986, the chamber has awarded more than $407,000 in scholarships. Thanks to the support of the business community, the scholarships are made possible through proceeds from the chamber’s annual School/ Business Partnership Golf Tournament, along with contributions from the Robert J. Lemieux Charitable Trust, individual donation from Leo Casey of B2B CFO, and Howard Grossman of Grossman Development Group of the Lakeway Commons Scholarship fund. The scholarship application is available on the chamber’s website at www.corridornine.org, and copies are available in many of the local high school guidance departments.

Please call the Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of Commerce at 508-836-4444 on any questions about the scholarship.

Vote for your favorite businesses in Westborough

WESTBOROUGH – The “Year in Review” Awards Celebration is an annual event, hosted by the Westborough Economic Development Committee, to bring state and municipal officials together with local business leaders to honor Westborough-based companies and highlight the town’s economic accomplishments.

This year’s event will take place on Friday, April 28, from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at the Forbes Municipal Building, and businesses will be recognized for

their impact in 2022.

This year, the EDC is recognizing businesses across six award categories: New Development Project, New Small Business, New Downtown Business, Innovation, Civic Pride and Hall of Fame.

Historically, the EDC has selected award winners internally, but this year the EDC is asking for members of the public to determine the winners of the New Downtown Business, Civic Pride and the Hall of Fame awards.

It asks you to consider the nominees and cast your vote via https://edc.town. westborough.ma.us/edc-annual-year-review-awards/ webforms/2022-year-reviewawards for the business you think should be recognized by March 3.

Please note that nominees were selected by the EDC, and that the board prioritized nominating businesses that have not previously been recognized as part of the “Year in Review” Awards Celebration.

Drone photography shows the Westborough Golf Club.

PHOTO/TAMI WHITE

Raise a glass to Beer Week’s winning design

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – If you’ve ever browsed the housewares department at Kohl’s, brightened up the season with a holiday item from Homegoods, or picked up a cozy bed for your pooch at Marshalls, chances are you already own something designed by Westborough resident Shawnna Lyons-Dambeck.

Lyons-Dambeck, a fiber and textile artist, recently won the Mass Brewers Guild’s Mass Beer Week art contest. Her work will be featured on all of Mass Beer Week’s promotional materials as well as the limited-edition pint glass that will be sold across the state at participating locations.

The association launched the contest this year for the first time in an effort to find and feature local artists.

Mass Beer Week is the statewide celebration of locally made craft beer; it will take place March 4-11. The glassware will be sold for $6 at 54 guild member breweries.

The guild is the state’s trade association for the craft beer industry and exists to protect and promote the interests of craft brewers across the Commonwealth.

Originally from Leominster,

Lyons-Dambeck’s love for breweries grew while she lived in Milwaukee, Wis., touring local taprooms. She appreciated the sense of community, coupled with the different beer styles and personalities that came through within each of the brewery spaces — from the art on walls to the employees serving suds.

When she moved back to Massachusetts with her husband, they took that passion with them and began to explore their home by sampling New England IPAs and stouts.

“While every brewery in every region is so different, they all care so much about their communities, sustainability and supporting farmers. From concept to consumer, their small business stories are what

Library Building Committee to ask for $347,000 for study

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – The Library Building Committee has filled in the blanks on how much it will ask Town Meeting for a building study and design costs.

In Article 11 of the Annual Town Meeting warrant, the committee will request the town to raise and appropriate $347,959 to fund a study and design costs to repair the library, “including all costs incidental and related thereto, or take any other action thereon.”

Should the funds be approved, the committee would be able to begin work on a needs assessment/schematic design and obtain a preliminary cost estimate. The committee would then come before a future Town

I really enjoy about the craft beer scene,” said Lyons-Dambeck. She first learned about Mass Beer Week while visiting Redemption Rock Brewing Co. in Worcester. She was served up a dark beer in the 2021 Mass Beer Week glass, which served as her inspiration for her own

design. When she saw information posted about the Mass Beer Week art contest earlier this fall, she was eager to enter.

“I’ve never designed a full-wrap pint glass before. I typically do a lot of water color, handpainted looks,” said Lyons-Dambeck. “A graphic design like this has to look clean and precise. It was a challenge for me that needed a different mindset, but I am happy with the way it came out and even more so that I was chosen as the winner.”

Lyons-Dambeck was one of 12 entrants into the contest. The guild narrowed down the designs to the top two, and it then turned it over to the public to decide. The competition was neck and neck, but ultimately, Lyons-Dambeck’s

design took the top vote.

This will be the first time Lyons-Dambeck will be able to drink a beer out of something she’s designed herself. She recommends filling the 16-ounce Willi Becher glass with a dark roasted beer or a Hazy IPA to contrast against the colors because it is so opaque.

“It’s incredible to have my design be a part of a celebration that’s all about supporting local breweries,” she said. “As a local artist trying to support myself, I get the need to contribute and support local. Whenever we buy a four-pack we make sure it’s Mass. made.”

To learn more about Mass Beer Week events and where you can purchase this year’s glassware, visit MassBeerWeek.org.

To learn more about the Mass Brewers Guild, visit MassBrewersGuild.org.

To view Shawnna LyonsDambeck’s portfolio, visit shawnnalyons.com.

Meeting with this information and request an appropriation to fund design development, cost estimates and the preparation of bid documents.

In December 2022, plans for an expansion and renovation of the library were turned down at a Special Town Meeting.

In January, the building committee voted to retain LPA|A and Vertex, who were tasked with forming a pricing proposal for a schematic design.

The LBC will come before the Advisory Finance Committee on Monday, Feb. 27.

Town Meeting will convene on Saturday, March 25, at Westborough High School. To view the latest draft, visit www.town. westborough.ma.us/home/ news/draft-2023-annual-townmeeting-warrant-version-6.

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The Mass Beer Week glasses designed by Westborough’s Shawnna Lyons-Dambeck.

Dual language program kicks off after COVID-19 delay COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

By Tyler Charpentier  Contributing Writer

HUDSON – Farley Elementary School’s dual language program offers students the ability to learn Portuguese, beginning from a kindergarten level.

Due to COVID-19 related delays, the program was not able to begin until 2021 but it has now gained rapid success within the Hudson community.

“Last year we had forty spots open for this program and still have a wait list of over twenty kids,” Director of World Language Ana Pimentel said.

Students will begin their school day in Portuguese class where they learn Portuguese literacy along with related content from social studies or science.

This includes learning not only the language, but also cultural aspects of Portugal and other Portuguese-speaking countries. For example, some sections of the curriculum teach students about specific plants

and animals that are native to Portugal.

While students are in their dual language class, they are encouraged to only speak in Portuguese, this includes when they speak to their teacher and peers.

However, Farley’s program provides knowledge beyond the walls of the classroom.

“There are so many benefits, for example, having awareness of other languages and cultures, building self-identity

PHOTO/LAURA HAYES

and confidence,” said Director of English Learner Education Wendy Anderson.

The benefits of bilingualism are long lasting and assist in the students’ future education, careers, and life experience.

“We know for example that students in dual language programs, especially when they get to fifth through eighth grade, perform just as well or even above average then monolingual programs,“ said Pimentel.

As Hudson has a large Por-

tuguese population, their dual language program helps further connect the students to both their cultural backgrounds and roots as well as that of their friends and neighbors.

“We have a lot of heritage speakers, kids whose first language is English but are from

a Portuguese family. This program gives them the opportunity to speak with their grandparents in their grandparents first language,” said Pimentel.  Anderson expressed her pride in “being able to honor the background of heritage speaking families.”

Learn to take creative photos with your smartphone

HUDSON – On Wednesday, March 1, the Assabet Valley Camera Club will host Hazel Meredith, an award-winning photographer, teacher, speaker, workshop leader and a highly respected competition judge.

In 2007, she began teaching post-processing techniques through adult education programs, camera clubs and conferences across the United States. As well as doing her own workshops, Meredith is a frequent webinar presenter for Topaz Labs.

During her “Creativity with Your Smartphone” presentation, Meredith will show how to create exciting, creative images on your smartphone. She will share some of her favorite apps for creative processing, including Snapseed, DistressedFx+, Image Blender, Retouch and the JixiPix suite of apps.

Actively involved in the photographic community on the local, regional and national levels, Meredith has held leadership positions in several organizations, and she has received distinction awards from both the Photographic Society of

America and the New England Camera Club Council. View her gallery at www.meredithimages.com.

This program is supported in part by a grant from the Hudson Cultural Council, a local agency supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.

Currently AVCC meetings are being held online. If you are interested in attending this program, contact AVCC at info@ assabetvalleycc.com a few days prior to the meeting to request a link to the event. The club’s Zoom room opens at 7 p.m., with a brief business meeting at 7:15. The presentation will begin at 7:30.

For more information, visit www.assabetvalleycc.com.

“Tree” by Hazel Meredith

Dual language program students Olivia Goncalves and Valentina Queres smile for a photo.

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Hudson superintendent finalists to be announced by end of month

Resident donates $20,000 to high school scholarship

She is aiming for Feb. 28 to schedule any visits.

“That is the plan,” Tousignant Dufour said.

Superintendent | from page 1 Steven Smith asked if there were any areas where the school leadership might not achieve what was set as a goal. Rodrigues said while there are “things that are yet to be done,” there are also priorities that could go into next year.

A tentative schedule will be sent, she said. The goal is to get every candidate to see every facility and meet with all of the principals of the different schools, as well as students, staff and families.

District improvement plan

In his superintendent’s report, Rodrigues updated the committee on how the district improvement plan is coming along. He was “happy to report that we are in very good shape” and getting closer to goals set for the year.

One goal they are trying to achieve, he said, was improving the support services for tier two students who may need additional help.

“One of the things we have started doing since last year is walks across classrooms,” Rodrigues added.

Members of the leadership team observe the work in the classroom and learn to assess how students are working with each other.

In terms of social and emotional learning, Rodrigues discussed identifying supports for students. He focused on what they have and do not have for support services and establish how to increase them with a data base.

“We are working on how to develop this platform,” he said. “It’s going to be our repository place for a number of things, plus a data collection so we have a way for us to begin creating and establishing educational practices that will allow us to create better support systems.”

Digital literacy is a topic that he has been examining to make sure library and other personnel use digital resources and utilize them in the classroom. He said there is an emphasis on how to use digital resources properly and grow with their use.

Rodrigues gave an update on the equity assessment, which they will hear news about this month. His goal to present a final report to the school committee was March 21.

“So far we are on target,” he said. “We are looking good.”

School Committee member

“I’m very confident the work that I laid out for us that summer is attainable,” Rodrigues said.

“That’s awesome. That’s a lot of work,” member Molly MacKenzie said.

Director of Operations and Finance Daniel Gale gave a brief report on the current fiscal year’s circuit breaker that will be carried forward to FY 2024. According to his presentation, $1.18 million of circuit breaker funds and $3.23 million in school choice funds will be carried forward to the next fiscal year.

On the expense side of things, Gale noted they are “under budget” in terms of spending.

MARLBOROUGH – Pamela Morse has announced a donation of $20,000 per year for high school graduates in Marlborough.

The funds will be distributed to deserving students in need of financial assistance to further their education. She will be continuing with this scholarship indefinitely.

Morse, a fourth-generation resident of Marlborough, is committed to giving back to her community and is passionate about helping young people succeed. Continuing the legacy of her parents, Walter and Joyce Morse, and their love and support for the Marlborough community, she believes that

Morse, along with Mayor Arthur Vigeant and MPS Superintendent Mary Murphy, at the announcement of a yearly $20,000 donation toward scholarships for high school graduates in Marlborough.

education is the key to unlocking a brighter future, and she is thrilled to be able to support high school graduates in their journey toward higher education.

The scholarship program will be administered by the Marlborough Rotary Club and will be open to all high school graduates in Marlborough. Each year five applicants will be selected, and the recipients will be chosen based on their participation in community service, academic achievements and financial need.

An announcement regarding Morse’s donation was held on Jan. 31, at Marlborough City Hall.

Pamela

Residents ask school committee to adopt Diwali holiday

By Bill Gilman Senior Reporter

SHREWSBURY – Dozens of residents packed the Feb. 15 School Committee meeting to request that Diwali be added to the district calendar as an official holiday.

Diwali, also known as the “Festival of Lights,” is a celebration dating back more than 1,000 years. It is considered to be among the most important holy festivals of the Hindu calendar. Over the generations, it has transcended religious lines, and it is also celebrated by Sikhs, Jains and Newar Buddhists.

The celebration, noted for family gatherings, gifts and traditional light displays both inside and outside of homes, falls between mid-October and mid-November each year. The lights are said to symbolize replacing negativity with wisdom and prosperity.

Several of those in attendance at the Feb. 15 meeting, including students and par -

ents, spoke during the public comment period about the significance of Diwali to their families and asked Superintendent Joseph Sawyer to recommend it be added as a “no-school” holiday to the district calendar.

In addition to the residents who spoke at the meeting, School Committee Chair Lynsey Heffernan said the committee had received numerous written comments about adding Diwali as a holiday to the district calendar and that members had reviewed all of them.

“This festival is an annual

homecoming and bonding for many families,” said Anand Sharma. “When we were in India, our parents [taught us about] the celebration. It was a holiday and it became an integral part of our lives. We want the same thing to happen for our children here.”

According to Sharma, Shrewsbury Public Schools includes 33.6% Asian students, with a large number of those students of Indian heritage. Westborough, another community with a large Indian population, already recognizes Diwali as a “no-school” holiday on its district calendar.

Several other Massachusetts school districts have done likewise.

Shrewsbury High School student Gia Sharma said recognizing Diwali as a school holiday would allow and encourage students to fully participate in the celebration with their families.

“I urge you to include [Diwali] as a holiday because I always miss out on being with my family on this day,” she said. “They always tell me about the activities they have been doing the whole day and its significance. I believe they want to tell me everything because they want me doing the same thing when I grow up and have a family.”

The School Committee will be voting on the official 202324 school calendar at its March 1 meeting. However, Sawyer made clear that his recommendation would be to keep the present holiday calendar unchanged, citing a policy recommended by a Calendar Committee in 2005 and re-

affirmed by a Calendar Committee in 2016.

According to Sawyer, the district’s policy since 2005 is to have school be in session on religious holidays that are not mandated by the state or federal government. Prior to that, Good Friday, Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur were “no school” days in Shrewsbury.

According to Sawyer, the 2005 Calendar Committee cited, as one of its reasons, a desire to be fair to all cultures and religions in a town that was increasingly diverse.

“There was already a sense that Shrewsbury was becoming a much more diverse community religiously,” he said. “And that there were going to be Hindu families, Muslim families, Sikh families, families that observed lots of different religions, who were going to need and want to celebrate their own religious holidays.”

Sawyer said that while it was his recommendation not

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Joseph Sawyer speaks to a packed meeting of residents regarding their request that Diwali be added to the school district holiday calendar.

PHOTO/BILL GILMAN

Shrewsbury nearly doubles budget for daily substitutes

By Bill Gilman and Laura Hayes

SHREWSBURY – Shrewsbury

Public Schools is anticipating increasing its budget for daily substitutes by 93.6%.

Shrewsbury Public Schools

Superintendent Joseph Sawyer is recommending a school department budget of just over $83 million for the 2024 fiscal year. Sawyer unveiled his detailed budget request at the Feb. 15 School Committee meeting.

According to Assistant Superintendent of Operations and Finance Patrick Collins, a day-to-day substitute is oncall and is paid $100 a day. He noted that the district also has building substitute teachers who are contracted for the entire year for $140 a day.

Collins presented how much was budgeted for daily substitutes versus how much the district actually spent. For fiscal years 2017 and 2018, Collins said the district was close to the budgeted amount of $310,600 — which was budgeted for both years — though slightly over budget.

In 2019, Shrewsbury budgeted $320,900, but its actual expenditures came in “more significantly over budget” according to Collins at $463,223. During the pandemic in 2020 and 2021, Collins said the district was under budget.

In fiscal year 2022, the district budgeted $375,900 for daily substitute teachers; however, the actual amount spent was $560,006.

This line item was increased

to $394,500 for the 2023 fiscal year.

“Right now, to date, we have already expended about 94% of our daily substitute budget,” said Collins. “Yet, we are only 53% of the way through the school year.”

Collins said that day-today substitute costs are seasonal with the district typically spending more on substitutes in the second half of the year.

“Kind of makes sense with graduations that occur, other type of life events where staff need to take a personal day to attend those events and then we need to call in more substitutes,” said Collins.

With that in mind, the line item for daily substitutes has been increased to $763,894 for fiscal 2024.

The line item for long-term substitutes — who would be called in for several weeks or months to cover a medical leave — has also been increased by just over 14% to a total of $600,021. To date, the district has spent 57% of its budget for long-term substitutes.

Other budget items

In total, the $83,086,622 budget represents an increase of $3,767,351 or 4.75% over the current fiscal year.

Sawyer credited Collins for the work he and his team did in putting together the budget. This is Collins’ final budget for the district, as he will be retiring at the end of the school year.

Sawyer also thanked the

Residents ask school committee to adopt Diwali holiday

Diwali | from page 16 to add Diwali or any other religious holiday to the “no school” days on the calendar, the district would ensure that students would, in no way, face any type of punishment or academic setback by taking those days off to be with their families. This includes, he said, making those religious holidays “no test/homework days” in the schools.

He added that he believed teaching students about different cultures and religions was

residents of Shrewsbury for their support in approving the Proposition 2 1/2 override two years ago, which he said has provided the district with the ability to fund needed positions and services.

According to Sawyer and Collins, the vast majority of the budget increase is due to contractual raises for staff.

Several positions that were added during the current school year have been added to the fiscal 2024 budget. This includes 0.5 full-time equivalent (FTE) position for a special education teacher, 0.4 FTE for a world language teacher for heritage Portuguese, 1.0 FTE for an English Language Learner teacher at Spring Street School and 1.1

FTE in school nursing. The budget also calls for adding a full-time science and engineering teacher at Shrewsbury High School, a reading specialist at Sherwood Middle School and one classroom teacher at the elementary level. The number of paraprofessionals were increased by 25.7 FTE.

important to building understanding among the student population and strong bonds within the community.

“Shrewsbury is an even more vibrant place today than it was 25 years ago when I first came here because we have such a diverse community,” said Sawyer. “That is something that has enriched our school district, enriched our community.”

“Recognizing and celebrating diversity is a core value of our school district,” he added.

POLICE FIRE&

Grand jury indicts two people in fatal Shrewsbury hit-and-run

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

SHREWSBURY – Two people have been indicted following a fatal hit-and-run in Shrewsbury in October.

According to a press release from Worcester County District Attorney Joseph Early Jr.’s office, Jerry Santiago Jr., 25, of Worcester, was indicted by a grand jury on charges of motor vehicle homicide, motor vehicle homicide by reckless operation, leaving the scene of a personal injury crash resulting in death, driving as to endanger and driving a motor vehicle without a license.

The grand jury also indicted Justina Riopelle, 22, of Worcester, for being an accessory after the fact.

On Oct. 30, the Shrewsbury Police Department and State Police detectives assigned to Early’s office responded to a report of a hit-and-run on Route 9.

At the time, Early’s office said that the victim — Ghu-

Feedback Earth reopens following fire on roof

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

fran Mutar, 20 — was crossing Route 9 at the intersection with South Street while she was on her way home at 10 p.m. after working at CVS when she was struck.

Mutar had been brought to UMass Memorial Medical Center where she later died of her injuries.

Law enforcement began searching for the suspect vehicle, which had left the scene of the crash.

Witnesses told police that the vehicle pulled into a nearby dealership where a man and woman exited the car to assess the damage. They then got back into the vehicle and continued on Route 9.

According to the statement of facts filed in Westborough District Court, surveillance footage showed the woman discard a bottle from the vehicle, and when police recovered it, they learned it was a bottle of tequila that was three-fourths filled with a pink liquid.

Westborough police located a vehicle at the Extended Stay America on Oct. 31 with heavy front-end damage.

Santiago was arraigned in Westborough District Court on Nov. 2 where a judge set his bail at $50,000. According to Early’s office, he is still in custody.

Santiago and Riopelle will be arraigned in Worcester Superior Court at a later date.

GRAFTON – Feedback Earth

at 109 Creeper Hill Road has resumed operations following a fire on its roof on Jan. 30.

“Over the past two weeks, we have halted production as we investigate the root cause of the fire, implement facility and procedural changes to ensure the events cannot happen again, and inspect/repair our equipment to the highest standards,” according to a release from Feedback Earth.

“Through this time, we have been in close contact with the Grafton Fire Department, Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, Town of Grafton and other agencies to ensure alignment in our proceedings and actions.

“We have completed our investigation and as a result have implemented new procedures and enhanced fire safety automation to prevent incidents like this in the future,” according to the release.

The facility, which converts food waste into animal feed, reopened on Feb. 13.

“We are extremely grateful to the multiple partners in the community who responded quickly to aid our cleanup and restoration efforts – Davron Equipment, All-Steel Fabrication, Killborn Construction, Aulo Brothers Trucking, EDI Electric, Petrone Plumbing and many others,” said Feedback Earth.

Feedback Earth was established in 2020, and is capable of upcycling 375 tons of food waste per day.

Shrewsbury police rescue man trapped in mud

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

SHREWSBURY – Shrewsbury

Police Department rescued a man who was trapped in the mud in Flint Pond.

Shrewsbury officers Alex Desimone, Dillon Zona and Tyler Vlass and Sgt. Mark Sklut responded to a report of a man who was trapped in the mud in Flint Pond at about 11:40 a.m. Feb. 13.

The caller told police that the man was about 50 feet from the Flint Pond boat ramp.

“It was reported that the

male was sinking rapidly down and was in danger of drowning,” police wrote in a press release.

Desimone arrived first, and he went into the pond with a lifesaving device called a ResQ Disc that is attached to a rope.

The man was up to his neck in water and mud. Desimone went about 35 feet offshore, threw the device to the man and the officers pulled him free of the mud and to the shore.

The Shrewsbury Fire Department arrived and helped with the rescue. The man was evaluated by paramedics and released.

Marlborough police caution against theft groups

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

MARLBOROUGH – The Marlborough Police Department is warning residents about “theft groups” involving multiple people targeting wallets in bags. According to the department, the city is one of several communities in the state that have been targeted by this type

of theft.

The groups target victims in coffee shops and restaurants who have handbags hanging on their chairs, according to police. The suspects will position themselves nearby, and then they will reach into the bag and remove the wallet. Then the suspect will steal the credit cards before replacing the wallet.

“Next, they leave the establishment and go on a shopping spree,” police wrote in a press release.

The department is urging residents to keep their handbags and wallets in close view if they’re at a coffee shop, restaurant or out in public.

Anyone who witnesses suspicious activity should call the police at 508-485-1212.

Jerry Santiago Jr. appears in Westborough District Court last fall.

PHOTO/LAURA HAYES

POLICE LOG

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

Grafton Monday,

Grafton, op MV with registration revoked, unlicensed operation of MV, straight warrant, uninsured vehicle, carry dangerous weapon.

Tuesday, Feb. 7

10:28 p.m. Arrested, Kerri Elizabeth Intinarelli, 52, 20 Parliament Dr., Franklin, for OUI-liquor or .08%, marked lanes.

Northborough

Sunday, Feb. 5

6:34 p.m. Arrested, Patrick S. Shandley, 34, of 63 Shrine Ave., Apt. 2, Westborough, for shoplifting by concealing mdse, unlawful deactivation or removal of theft detection device, warrant.

Tuesday, Feb. 7

6:33 a.m. Arrested, Keith M. Lavalley, 32, of 19 Waters St., Millbury, on warrant.

Wednesday, Feb. 8

9:51 p.m. Arrested, Sheena Rae DiBenedetto-Petukhov, 35, of 9 Ralph St., Worcester, for shoplifting by asportation 3rd off., warrant.

Shrewsbury

Friday, Feb. 10

10:34 a.m. Arrested, Kristyna Nicole Murphy, 35, of 25 Hooper St., Apt. 1F, Worcester, on warrant.

Sunday, Feb. 12

9:58 a.m. Arrested, Ashley Lynn Mallas, 34, of 11 A Elmwood Ter., Millbury, on warrant.

9:58 a.m. Arrested , Keith

Michael Lavalley, 32, of 19

A Waters St., Millbury, for poss Class A substance subsequent offense, vandalize property.

Monday, Feb. 13

9:11 a.m. Arrested, Diego Ribeiro De Souza, 21, of 7331 Arbor Dr., Shrewsbury, for possession Class B substance, trespass.

Westborough

Wednesday, Feb. 8

2:23 a.m. Arrested, Christopher M. Fonseca, 43, of 404 Mill St., New Bedford, on default warrant.

Friday, Feb. 10

10:51 a.m. Arrested, Stephen M. O’Neil, 33, of 76 Franklin St., Apt. 39, Worcester, on

straight warrant.

Tuesday, Feb. 14

1:13 p.m. Arrested, Pamela J. White, 52, of 66 Arch St., Westborough, for OUI-liquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle.

4:23 p.m. Arrested, Gretchen M. Clarke, 55, of 31 Wheeler Rd., Westborough, for OUIliquor or .08%, negligent operation of motor vehicle, fail to stop/yield.

Marlborough

Tuesday, Feb. 7

7:41 p.m. Arrested, Adriana Murillo-Ballesteros, 41, of 425 Cherokee St., Bethlehem, PA, shoplifting by asportation.

LEGAL NOTICES

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PROBATE & FAMILY COURT

INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE

Docket No. MI23P0198EA

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

The Trial Court

Middlesex Division

Probate and Family Court

Estate of: Manuel P. Lopes

Also Known AS: Manuel Lopes

Date of Death: October 2, 2022

To all persons interested in the above captioned estate by Petition of Petitioner

Helena S. Lopes of Sterling, MA A Will has been admitted to informal probate.

Helena S. Lopes of Sterling, 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.

INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE

Docket No. MI23C0134CA

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

The Trial Court

Middlesex Division

Probate and Family Court

A Petition to Change Name of Adult has been filed by

Rodrigo Sales of Marlborough

Requesting that the court enter a Decree changing their name to:

Rodrigo Castro Sales

IMPORTANT NOTICE:

Any person may appear for purposes of objection to the petition by filing an appearance at:

Middlesex Probate and Family Court before 10:00 a.m. on the return day of 03/09/2023.

This is NOT a hearing date, but a deadline by which you must file a written appearance if you object to this proceeding.

WITNESS, Hon. Maureen H. Monks, First Justice of this Court

Date: February 09, 2023

INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE

Docket No. WO23P0504EACommon-

wealth of Massachusetts

The Trial Court

Worcester Division

Probate and Family Court

Estate of: Paul L. Sullivan

Date of Death: January 16, 2023

To all persons interested in the above captioned estate by Petition of Petitioner Patrick Sullivan of Southborough, MA A Will has been admitted to informal probate.

Patrick Sullivan of Southborough, 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.

GRAFTON LEGAL NOTICE

SOUTH GRAFTON WATER DISTRICT NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING & ELECTION OF OFFICERS

The Annual Meeting and Election will be held on Tuesday, May 16, 2023 at 4:30p.m. at the South Grafton Water District, 370 Providence Road, South Grafton, MA 01560. At said Meeting the District shall vote for the following offices: (i) District Moderator for a one year term; (ii) Clerk of the District for a one year term; (iii) and one member of the Board of Water Commissioners for a three year term. Nomination Papers and Petitions for insertion of articles in the warrant must be submitted to the District before 12:00 PM on Thursday, March 30, 2023. Nomination Papers and Petitions must have valid signatures of at least 15 registered voters residing in the District. Nomination forms are available at the District office.

HUDSON NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Petition #2023-04

Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals on Thursday, March 9, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. Pursuant to the Chapter 20 of the Acts of 2021 Suspending Certain Provisions of the Open Meeting Law, G.L. c. 30A, §18, this meeting of the Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals will be conducted via remote participation. At this time the Board of Appeals will hear the request of RK Realty Association, LLC to obtain a variance from Section 6.2.2.1 of the Hudson Zoning Bylaws to allow for the construction of a free-standing bank ATM within the front setback. The subject property is located

at 197-205 Washington Street in the C-11 Commercial Zoning District. The Board may consider any action deemed necessary relative to the subject petition.

All petition materials are available for review in the Town Clerk’s Office during regular business hours, on the Town of Hudson website at http://go.boarddocs. com/ma/hudsonma/Board.nsf/ goto?open&id=CNULAU558CDA and can be requested by calling (978) 5622989 or by sending an email to kjohnson@townofhudson.org

Matt Russell, Clerk Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Petition #2023-02

Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals on Thursday, March 9, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. Pursuant to the Chapter 20 of the Acts of 2021 Suspending Certain Provisions of the Open Meeting Law, G.L. c. 30A, §18, this meeting of the Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals will be conducted via remote participation.

At this time the Board of Appeals will hear the request of Wanderley and Marellen DePaula requesting a Special Permit pursuant to Section 5.3.2.1 (i) to convert an existing single-family dwelling into a two-family dwelling. The subject property is located at 20 Old Bolton Road in the SA-8 Single Family Zoning District Assessors’ Map 5 Parcel 26. The Board may consider any action deemed necessary relative to the subject petition.

All petition materials are available for review in the Town Clerk’s Office during regular business hours, on the Town of Hudson website at http://go.boarddocs. com/ma/hudsonma/Board.nsf/ goto?open&id=CNUL4D54B7FB and can be requested by calling (978) 562-2989 or by sending an email to kjohnson@ townofhudson.org

Matt Russell, Clerk Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

HUDSON PLANNING BOARD

Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the Hudson Planning Board on Tuesday, March 7, 2023 at 7:00 PM. Pursuant to Chapter 107 of the Acts 2022 extending remote meeting provisions of Governor Baker’s March 12, 2020 Executive Order suspending certain provisions of the Open Meeting Law, this meeting of the Hudson Zoning Board will be conducted fully-remote. Specific information for remote participation will be included on the agenda.

At this time, the Hudson Planning Board will consider the application of EHP Realty Corp. for Site Plan Approval to construct a 7,200 square foot steel commercial building, with associated parking at 540 Main Street pursuant to the provisions of Section 7.1.7 of the Town of Hudson Zoning By-laws. The subject property is located at 540 Main Street within the M-6 Industrial District, Assessors’ Map 34 Parcel 21.

All petition materials are available for review in the Town Clerk’s Office during regular business hours, on the Town of Hudson website at http://go.boarddocs. com/ma/hudsonma/Board.nsf/

goto?open&id=CNTSNT72DAD6 and can be requested by calling (978) 5622989 or by sending an email to kjohnson@townofhudson.org

Hudson Planning Board

Robert D’Amelio, Chairman

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Petition #2023-03

Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals on Thursday, March 9, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. Pursuant to the Chapter 20 of the Acts of 2021 Suspending Certain Provisions of the Open Meeting Law, G.L. c. 30A, §18, this meeting of the Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals will be conducted via remote participation. At this time the Board of Appeals will hear the request of Most Noble LLC to amend a Special Permit issued on May 14, 2015 to construct a 14,000 square foot, single story expansion to the existing 18,000 square foot building pursuant to Section 3.3.10.1 of the Hudson Zoning By-laws (Watershed Protection District) and a variance from Section 6.2.1.3 of the Hudson Zoning By-laws for the reduction in the minimum open space requirement. The subject property is located at 569 Main Street in the M-6 Industrial District), Assessors’ Map 35 Parcels 36. The Board may consider any action deemed necessary relative to the subject petition.

All petition materials are available for review in the Town Clerk’s Office during regular business hours, on the Town of Hudson website at http://go.boarddocs. com/ma/hudsonma/Board.nsf/ goto?open&id=CNUL8Z5564CA and can be requested by calling (978) 562-2989 or by sending an email to kjohnson@ townofhudson.org

Matt Russell, Clerk Hudson Zoning Board of Appeals

MARLBOROUGH

CITY OF MARLBOROUGH OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK MARLBOROUGH, MA 01752

LEGAL NOTICE

At a regular meeting of the City Council held on Monday, February 13, 2023, the following proposed amendment to the City Code, Chapter 430 “Poles, Wires and Conduits”, §30 “Aesthetics and Additional City Requirements” having been read was ORDERED ADVERTISED.

BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MARLBOROUGH THAT CHAPTER 473 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF MARLBOROUGH BE AMENDED AS FOLLOWS:

I. By amending Chapter 473 (Poles, Wires and Conduits), Section 473-30 (Aesthetics and additional City requirements), Subsection A(7) to read as follows (new text shown as underlined, deleted text shown as strikethrough): For purposes of this chapter, a small cell wireless facility shall mean “small wireless facilities” as defined in 47 C.F.R. 1.6002(1) as may be amended.

The maximum height of any antenna mounted to an existing pole shall not exceed 24 inches above the height of the then-existing pole, provided that in any event, all small cell wireless facilities shall:

(a) Be mounted on structures 50 feet or less in height including their antennas as defined in 47 C.F.R. § 1.1320(d); or

(b) Be mounted on structures no more than 10 percent taller than other adjacent structures; or

(c) Not extend existing structures on which they are located to a height of more than 50 feet or by more than 10 percent, whichever is greater.

(a) No small cell wireless facility shall be located on a pole that is less than 26 feet in height; and

(b) No facility shall exceed 35 feet in height, including but not limited to the pole and any antenna that produces above the pole.

II. By amending Chapter 473 (Poles, Wires and Conduits), Section 473-30 (Aesthetics and additional City requirements), Subsection A(5) to read as follows (new text shown as underlined, deleted text shown as strikethrough):

Small cell wireless installation equipment (meters, boxes, etc.) shall be mounted on the pole a minimum of 11 8 feet above ground level and a maximum of 9 feet above ground level.

The effective date of these amendments shall be the date of passage.

Per Order of the City Council 23-1008815

This Legal Advertisement will be published on www.wickedlocal.com and http://masspublicnotices.org

City of Marlborough

Conservation Commission

Abbreviated Notice of Intent

Legal

LEGAL NOTICES

Notices | from page

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that the Marlborough Conservation Commission will hold a public meeting on March 2, 2023 at 7:10 PM at Marlborough City Hall, 140 Main St. on the 3rd Floor-Memorial Hall.

Petition: 60 Carver Hill St. – Timothy Shannon proposes to do landscaping, stonework and regrading of the back yard within 100 ft. of a wetland.

Plans and other information will be available in the Conservation Commission office. All interested persons are invited to the public hearing.

Edward Clancy

Conservation Commission Chairman

City of Marlborough

Conservation Commission

Request for Determination of Applicability

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

A Notice is hereby given that the Marlborough Conservation Commission will hold a public meeting on March 2, 2023 at 7:10 PM at Marlborough City Hall, 140 Main St. on the 3rd Floor-Memorial Hall.

Request for Determination of Applicability was filed under provisions of the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, G.L. c. 131, §40.

Petition: 31 Red Spring Rd. – Arthur Vigeant proposes to construct a new house, garage, sewer pump and well and driveway within 100 ft. of Ft. Meadow Reservoir.

Plans and other information can be viewed in the Conservation Office. All interested persons are invited.

Applicant or representative must be present.

Edward Clancy Chairman Conservation Commission

NORTHBOROUGH

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

Northborough Planning Board

In accordance with the provisions of MGL Chapter 40A, Section 9, the Northborough Planning Board will hold a public hearing on March 7, 2023 at 6:05pm to consider the application for Site Plan Approval and Special Permit per Groundwater Protection Overlay District Bylaw submitted by Hosokawa Alpine American, Inc. for the proposed addition of 4,500 square feet of warehouse space and associated improvements for the property located at 455 Whitney Street, Map 15, Parcel 13 in the Industrial Zoning District and in the Groundwater Protection Overlay District Area 3. This application and plans are on file at the Town Clerk’s office, Planning office and may be viewed on the Planning Department webpage at https://www.town.northborough. ma.us/planning-department/pages/projects-underreview-planning-board

Pursuant to Chapter 20 of the Acts of 2021, An Act

Relative to Extending Certain COVID-19 Measures

Adopted During the State of Emergency, signed into law on June 16, 2021, as amended by Chapter 22 of the Acts of 2022, this meeting will be conducted via remote participation.  No in-person attendance by members of the public will be permitted. To participate in the public comment portions of this meet-

CITY OF MARLBOROUGH OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK MARLBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS 01752

LEGAL NOTICE

BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MARLBOROUGH THAT THE CITY CODE OF THE CITY OF MARLBOROUGH, AS AMENDED, BE FURTHER AMENDED AS FOLLOWS:

I. Chapter 315 (entitled “Enforcement”), Section 315-2 (entitled “Noncriminal disposition”), Subsection (A), is hereby amended by inserting the following sentence at the end of the existing paragraph:

In addition to any other enforcing municipal personnel, the code enforcement officer(s) may also be a designee of any enforcing agent for all such ordinances, rules or regulations.

II. Chapter 315, Section 315-2, Subsection (B), is hereby amended by inserting the following sentences after the existing second sentence:

Where no specific penalty amount is stated in an ordinance, rule, or regulation, the specific penalty amount shall be: $100 for First Offense, $200 for Second Offense, and $300 for Third and Any Subsequent Offense. Unless otherwise specified, second and any subsequent offenses shall mean additional offenses after a first offense which are committed by the same offender within a twelve-month period.

III. Chapter 315, Section 315-2, Subsection (B), Table Row numbers “20”, “21”, “22”, “23”, “25”, “27”, “28.1”, “29”, and “31” are hereby amended as follows: (new text shown as underlined deleted text shown as strikethrough):

28.1) Motorized Scooters, Ch. 503 First offense: not more than $25; second: not less than $25 nor more than $50; subsequent offenses: not less than $50 nor more than $100

29) Antiblight; Nuisances (Ch. 485, Art. I)

Registration and Maintenance of Abandoned and/or Foreclosing Residential Properties, Ch. 485, Art. II

$200 $300

31) Stormwater Management, Ch. 271 1st offense: $100 2nd offense: $200 3rd and subsequent offense: $300

Police Department

Building Commissioner or his or her designee; Board of Health

Building Commissioner

27) Building Regulations Building Permits, etc., Ch. 270, § 270-8 For violation of § 270-8 or any provision of State Building Code (780 CMR): $100 for 1st offense; $200 for 2nd offense; $300 for each succeeding offense no less than $100 nor more than $300 $X for each offense; each day or part thereof, whether continuous or intermittent, construed as separate and succeeding offense

Building Commissioner or his or her designee, in his absence Certificate of legal multifamily dwelling units, Ch. 420

Not less than $100 nor more than $300 $100 for 1st offense; $200 for 2nd offense; $300 for 3rd and subsequent offense

ing from a PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone or Android device, please click this URL to join: https://town-northborough-ma-us.zoom.us/j/82546102224 Passcode: 155770 Or Telephone: 301-715-8592 Webinar ID: 825 4610 2224 Passcode: 155770

Kerri Martinek, Chairman

SHREWSBURY

NOTIFICATION OF REFILLING

Lake Quinsigamond / Flint Pond

The Lake Quinsigamond Commission will raise the water level, or refill, Lake Quinsigamond and Flint

Building Commissioner or his or her designee

IV. Chapter 315, Section 315-2, Subsection (B), Table Row number “24”, is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:

City Engineer Ordinance Violation (Chapter/Section) Penalty Enforcing Agent

24) Board of Health: Regulation XII, Smoking and other use of tobacco products in school buildings, upon school grounds or in pupil transport vehicles

24.1) Board of Health

Regulations: All other Board of Health regulations not listed in Section 315-2.

$25 per offense Superintendent of Marlborough School District; all district principals, assistant principals, directors of athletics; Superintendent-Director and Principal of Assabet Valley Regional Vocational High School, as well as police officers

Board of Health

Amount as set forth in the Board of Health Regulation. If no specific penalty is listed in the regulation, then:

1st offense: $100

2nd offense: $200

3rd and subsequent offense: $300

V. Chapter 420 (entitled “Multifamily Dwellings”), Section 420-3 (entitled “Violations and Penalties”) is hereby amended as follows: (new text shown as underlined, deleted text shown as strikethrough):

Every day that a person violates § 420-2 shall constitute a separate offense. Each offense shall be subject to a noncriminal fine of not less than $100 and not more than $300 as set forth in the Code of the City of Marlborough §315-2B, as enforced by the Building Commissioner or his/ her designee.

VI. Chapter 485 (entitled “Property Maintenance”), Section 485-3 (entitled “Administration”), Subsection (A)(3), is hereby amended as follows: (new text shown as underlined deleted text shown as strikethrough):

In addition to the foregoing remedy, whoever violates any provision of this article or fails to obey any lawful order issued by the enforcing authority in enforcing this article shall be liable to a noncriminal fine of not more than $200 for each violation as set forth in the Code of the City of Marlborough §315-2B. Each violation of this article shall constitute a separate offense. Each day that any such violation continues shall constitute a separate violation. The enforcing authority may also issue a cease-and-desist order for any hazardous situation.

VII. Effective Date. These amendments shall take effect upon passage.

APPROVED

First Reading, suspended; Second Reading, adopted; Passage to Enroll, adopted; Passage to Ordain; adopted. No objection to passage in one evening.

ADOPTED In City Council Order No. 23-1008796B February 13, 2023

This Legal Advertisement will be published on www.wickedlocal.com and http://masspublicnotices.org

Please publish in the Community Advocate on Friday, February 24, 2023.

Please bill City Clerk's Office 140 Main Street Marlborough, MA 01752

Pond located in Grafton, Shrewsbury and Worcester on or about March 2, 2023. The Irish Dam in Grafton will be raised over the next few weeks until the water elevation is back to full status by April 1st.

The exposed bank and bottom is a protected resource under the Wetlands Protection Act. Filling or dredging is prohibited. Disposal of the debris is the responsibility of the homeowner. Debris must be disposed of offsite in accordance with all local, state and federal laws and regulations.

All boats should be removed from the water to prevent damage.

Homeowner care should be given to docks and shoreline structures to prevent damage from

flowing ice.

Peter Collins, Chairman Lake Quinsigamond Commission www.shrewsburyma.gov/lqc

SOUTHBOROUGH

LEGAL NOTICE

COMMUNITY OBITUARIES

The Community Advocate will post obituaries online (and in print, as space allows). Please send information (and a picture if desired) to tracy@communityadvocate.com. Here is a complete list of individual obituaries posted on the Community Advocate website (www. communityadvocate.com).

DEATHS

Barnes, Priscilla of Shrewsbury and Grantsboro, NC

Busa Jr., Alfred of Marlborough

Carlson, Marie of Marlborough

Chenell, Alan of Marlborough

Dome, Marjorie of Hudson

Genatossio, Nina of Fitchburg and Grafton

Hall Jr., Brinley formerly of Southborough

Hebden, Michael of Grafton

Hsu, Shih-kuan of Shrewsbury

Hudson, Gerald of Marlborough

Hutchinson, Shirley of Southborough

Jonaitis, Joanne of Northborough

Kerrigan Jr., Thomas Hudson

Major, Elizabeth former music teacher with Marlborough Public Schools

McGinn, John of Shrewsbury

Parent, John of Hudson

Proctor, Anne of Grafton

Rublesky, Edward formerly of Marlborough

Sullivan Jr., Robert of Hudson

Tremblay, Phyllis of Marlborough

Tselikis, John of Marlborough

Vuona, Theresa formerly of Shrewsbury

Walter, Jake of Southborough

Wheeler, Nancy of Northborough

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

Marjorie J. Dome, 90

HUDSON - Marjorie Jeanette

Dome, nee Budd, died Jan. 2, 2023, in Sudbury, Massachusetts at the age of 90.

Born March 6, 1932, to John F. and Elizabeth Budd in Brooklyn, New York, Marjorie attended Erasmus Hall High School in Brooklyn. She married her school sweetheart Donald A.

Dome June 14, 1952.

She was a loving wife and mother, passionate about each of her four sons, grandchildren and great-grandchildren – always wanting to show them off to neighbors and friends when visiting their long-time home on King Street in Fanwood, New Jersey, or later in Bradenton, Florida, where the couple retired. She liked to keep any cards or hand-drawn pictures or trinkets her family gave her, and she always had a gift in hand. At her heart, Marjorie was a caretaker, ensuring any visitor had enough to eat – always offering a banana or sandwich to take with you on the road. She was strong willed, outspoken and full of sass in the best ways.

Marjorie is survived by three

sons: William (Nancy) Dome, Hudson, Mass.; David (Janet) Dome, Laconia, NH; and Donald Dome Jr., Tilton, NH. Marjorie had six grandchildren: Matthew Dome (Lisa), Brian Dome (Tami), Meghan Dome, Kendra Frederick (Kosea), Karen Beit (Rich), and Jennifer King (Jermaine). She also had eight great-grandchildren: Norah, Anna, Lilah, Logan, Keiran, Kamille, Abigail and Penelope. She was predeceased by her husband of 67 years on Jan. 21, 2019. She was also predeceased by her son Stephen Dome and daughter-in-law Shannon Dome.

A memorial service will be held March 4, 2023, at 10 a.m. at the Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home, 50 Central Street, Hudson, MA 01749.

John R. McGinn, 78

SHREWSBURY - John R. “Jack”

McGinn, 78, a longtime Shrewsbury resident, passed away unexpectedly at his home on February 7, 2023. Born in Worcester to Thomas J. and Catherine (Murphy) McGinn, Jack attended Worcester Public Schools.

Jack went on to work as a guidance counselor at Shrewsbury High School for thirty years and was also an Adjunct Professor for several years in the Counselor Education Program at Worcester State College. Jack proudly served in the Army Reserve during the Vietnam War.

Jack is survived by nieces and nephews including Katie Centola of North Attleboro, Susan McGinn-Fullen of Shrewsbury, Patrick McGinn of Westford, and Thomas “Chip” McGinn of Wrentham.

The Chiampa Funeral Home of Shrewsbury assisted with arrangements.

Shih-kuan Hsu, 86

SHREWSBURY - Dr. Shih-kuan

“Ken” Hsu was a scholar, engineer and ultimate family man. Ken was born on January 1, 1937, the 3rd of 6 children of the late Jenduan Hsu and Yu-mei Chen in the small farm town of Linluo Township, Pingtung, Taiwan. Ken died after a period of declining health on Sunday, February 5, 2023. He was 86.

In addition to his wife of 53 years, Mei-sheng, he leaves his children, Lloyd Hsu (Jan Foo) of Los Altos, California and Christina Hsu (Robert Lu) of Redwood City, California; his grandchildren, Jeremy and Stephanie Hsu; his siblings Shih-tien Hsu, Shih-yi Hsu, Jui-jyu Hsu, Jui-mei Hsu; many nieces & nephews. He is predeceased by his older brother, Shih-chao Hsu.

The James & John Heald of The Joyce Funeral Home in Waltham assisted with arrangements.

Elizabeth A. Major, 75

AGAWAM - Elizabeth A. Major, 75, of Agawam, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2023 surrounded by her family and friends. Beth was born in Springfield, MA, August 14,1947 to the late Lloyd W. Major and Dorothy E (Steele) Major of Agawam.

Beth is survived by her sister Dorothea (Dory Major) Aull and her husband Elbert H. Aull, III, nephew Elbert H. Aull IV (wife Vanessa Pai-Thompson), niece Malia (Aull) Ohlson (husband Jonathan Ohlson). She loved spending time with her greatniece Abigail Ohlson and greatnephew Alex Ohlson. Especially grateful for love and kindness of friend and aide, Nadejda and lifelong loving friends Cinnie, Mary, Bill and Helen.

The Curran-Jones Funeral Home of Agawam assisted with arrangements.

Jake Walter, 90

SOUTHBOROUGH - Jake Walter, 90, of Southborough, died peacefully at his home, surrounded by his family on Tuesday, February 7, 2023. He was the beloved husband of Margo (Findley) Walter for over 67 years.

In addition to his wife he leaves his children, Conan Walter and is wife, Mary of Southborough, Timothy Walter of Tomball, TX; Caitlin Boland and her husband William of Southborough; Robert Walter and is wife, Jennifer of Westford; Susanna Walter and her partner Jose Ayala of Waltham; Jacob Walter and his wife, De-

naRae Walter of Southborough; sixteen grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and a sister, Patricia Ristow, of Lincoln, Neb. He was predeceased by his sister, Barbara Oliver and his daughter in law Kristin Walter.

The Johnston Funeral Home of Southborough assisted with arrangements.

Robert P. Sullivan Jr., 57

HUDSON - Robert P Sullivan Jr of Hudson passed on February 7, 2023 after a period of declining health. He was the beloved son of Robert and Eileen Sullivan of Hudson and youngest brother of Melinda, her husband Lawrence, Barry, Paul and his wife Nancy.

In May 1993, Rob married the love of his life and soulmate, Margaret (Melo). Together they had two sons, Bobby and Christopher, who by far were Rob’s proudest accomplishments and joys. He beamed when talking about them and loved them more than words can say. He was so happy to be adding two new daughters-inlaw, Chelsie Ray and Jenna Noccioli, that he already loved like daughters. Rob also leaves behind his mother-in-law Maria Margarida Melo who loved him like a son, sister-in-law Dorothy Forde and her husband Toney. He will also be missed by nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, many cousins and countless friends.

Rob is preceded in death by his father-in-law Manuel da Silva Melo, maternal grandparents Manuel and Emily Silva, paternal grandparents William and Evelyn Sullivan, grandparents-in-law John and Angelina Botelho, great aunt Maria Evelina Cabral, and uncles Joseph Rivers, William Sullivan, John Antonio and Eugene Silva.

Rob, known among friends as Ruben, Sully, and Little Sully, worked to live – not lived to work. He enjoyed time outdoors with his best 4-legged buddy Lexi whether by a campfire, on the boat or sitting in the sun. Lexi misses him dearly, especially the pepperoni & walnut snacks throughout the day. In addition to spending time with his family, Rob had passions for music, fishing, golf, and lake life as can be proven by his social media page with all the photos of sunsets, fish, golf courses, campfires, guitars and of course lobsters & cheesecake at Bob’s Seafood. Whenever possible, he would be loving life doing one or all of these activities, and

these passions were also passed on to his sons. An ideal day for Rob would include all these adventures with his wife, kids and friends.

Being from a musical family, Rob first picked up the guitar at age 4 and never put it down. He passed that love of music and playing instruments onto his children; he cherished the times the three jammed together with friends. Rob was known to perform as Elvis in a white glitter jumpsuit and leather pant suit on many occasions. His love for being a musician and entertainer was a close second to the love for his family.

Rob never did anything halfway. He lived and loved with all his heart and all he had. Everywhere he went, he made friends - adding to the lifelong friendships he left behind. The world lost an all-around terrific guy that would do anything for anyone at any time. Always with a smile and a “Yaaaaa Baby!” – he could liven up any room.

The Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home of Hudson assisted with arrangements.

Joanne Jonaitis, 64

NORTHBOROUGH - Joanne Jonaitis (Pazareskis) passed away peacefully on February 8, 2023, while surrounded by the love of her family. She was 64 years old. Born in Worcester and raised in Shrewsbury, Joanne was a daughter of George and Bette (Sterner) Jonaitis, Jr. and a 1976 graduate of Shrewsbury High School.

Surviving Joanne is her husband of 33 years, Paul R. Pazareskis and her beloved daughters Molly Jonaitis – Pazareskis and Madison Pazareskis, all whom live in Northborough; her mother Bette Jonaitis of Shrewsbury; two brothers George Jonaitis III and companion Donna of St. Simons, GA and Gary Jonaitis and his wife Laura of Wareham, MA; a sister Suzanne Durkin and her husband Joseph of Buzzards Bay, MA; as well as many nieces and nephews. She will also be missed by the Pazareskis family from both the East and West Coasts.

The Hays Funeral Home of Northborough assisted with arrangements.

Mulready students make Valentines for veterans, appraiser comes to historical society

students and the VA volunteers participate in the Valentines for Vets program annually.

Rosemary Rimkus HUDSON Happ’nings

HUDSON – Second and third grade students at J.L. Mulready Elementary School created Valentines for Vets.

They were delivered to Bedford VA Hospital by VA Volunteers Al Temple and Walter Spencer for the Feb. 14 holiday. Makers of the original Valentines were students of Mrs. Calvanese, grade 3, Mrs. Murphy and Mrs. Hamilton, grade 2. Temple said that the Mulready

Appraiser to speak at historical society

Appraiser Gary Sohmers of PBS-TV “Antique Roadshow” fame, will be a guest speaker at the meeting of the Hudson Historical Society Tuesday evening, Feb. 28 at 7 p.m. at First Federated Church hall, 200 Central St., Hudson.

Sohmers, a Hudson resident, has had a long career appraising pop culture items, toys, antiques, collectibles, records and other items. Attendees are invited to bring items for verbal appraisal (no jewelry, furniture or weapons.) The public is invited. Refreshments will be served.

Maize to Malawi

Hudson resident Dr. Brian Lisse, local affiliate of “Bridges to Malawi,” announces that a large shipment of maize (or corn), “enough to feed 15,000 people,” was recently distrib-

uted in Malawi by the charity. All donations go to fight against famine, provide medical care, further sustainable agriculture and farming, develop IT education. For more information, go to bridgestomalawi.org or email brianlisse2@gmail.com.

Welcome Gordon!

Gordon Robert Wotton, our third great-grandchild, was born Feb. 8, 2023 to Seth and Katie Wotton of Plymouth, their first child, at South Shore Hospital. Sharing grandparent honors are Michael and Joan (Rimkus) Wotton of Rockland and Robert “Bert” and Barbara Gaynor of Halifax.

Of local interest

Funeral services were held Feb. 7 at Immaculate Conception Church, Stoughton, for Hudson native Rev. Joseph P. McDermott, 87. Fr. McDermott died Jan. 30, 2023 following a short illness, after over 60 years as a priest. He was chaplain at Norfolk State prison for several years, and served several area parishes. His survivors include his brother, Francis McDermott of Norwood, and his sister, Mary Daniels of Hudson.

Burke named new coach

Former Hudson resident Matt Burke has been named defensive coordinator for the Houston Texans football team. He has been defensive coordinator for the Miami Dolphins. Burke is a graduate of Hudson High School ’94 and Dartmouth College.

New head coach

Congratulations to Zac Attaway, recently appointed head coach of Hudson High School football team, succeeding Dan McAnaspie, who retired after

25 years on the job.

AVM perform March 26

Assabet Valley Mastersingers will present “Coronation Celebration” Sunday, March 26 at 3:30 p.m. at Algonquin Regional High School, Northborough. Music of Mozart and Handel will be included, under direction of Dr. Robert P. Eaton. For more information go to www.avmsingers.org.

Travels resumed

After a two year hiatus, St. Ann Travel Club has resumed its services, featuring a Clambake at Foster’s in York, Me. Sunday, May 21, and a trip to Ogunquit (Me.) Playhouse to see musical “Singing in the Rain” Sunday, July 9. For more information or reservations contact Betty Evangelous 508380-9267 or email bettye.marboro@gmail.com.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Feb. 25 - Grace Masciarelli, George Sousa, Zoe Ann Liepins, Aimee Chaves, Martin Miller, Tom Boudreau, Haley Donahue, Joan Vincent and Bob Berube

Feb. 26 - Sara Neuffer, Nicole Hogan, Hugo Correa, Rebecca Moran, Beth Ann Bruso and Wally Howard

Feb. 27 - Katie Dunnell, Andy Bauer and Kelsey Nicole Ruiz

Feb. 28 - Ann Marie Lopez, Jimmy McMahon, David Bairos, Bob Durand and Linda Palmer Leap Year birthday - Angie Wilcox Flynn and Keaghan O’Leary

March 1 - Kathy Nutter, Steve Calvao, Ella Crue, Will Sullivan and Meghan May

March 3 - Michael Davis, Warren Cunningham and Matt Mayo

March 4 - Melissa DiFonzo and Corinne Bouchard

March 5 - Sue Ellen Ferguson and Melissa Little

March 6 - Stephanie Domeni-

cucci, David Opp, Fran Wolfe and Michael Wood

March 7 - Beth Bumbarger, Frank Lindsey, Lorenzo Percuoco, Donna Marques, Morganda Bairos, Kelly Fitzpatrick, Brianna Moran, Juvenalia Fugueiredo and Mark Coelho

March 8 - Lynette Davis, Kerri Lampinen, Ryan Pinto and Harry Millman Sr.

March 9 - Nelson Parness, Katelin Sherman, Celena Bacon, Doug Wilkins and Peter O’Keefe

March 10 - Lorenzo Caputo, Kelly Kittredge, Nancy Kerrigan, Helen Precourt, Chris Jordan and Jackie Wilkins.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

Feb. 26 - Leo and Connie Palatino

LOOKING BACK TO 1973

Hudson High School freshman Miles Quigley Jr., 13, received his Eagle Scout award. Dick Forbes joined the staff at Colonial Chrysler Plymouth car dealership. Master Sgt. Forbes, stationed at Fort Devens, joined the staff under the Army Projects Transition Program.

Genevieve Dacier was senior scouts advisor for Hudson Cadette Troop. Yvonne Fagan was named Hudson Girls Club “Girl of the Month.” Mr. and Mrs. Robert Doane attended the 146th annual Old Guard Ball of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Co. at the Hotel Commodore, Boston.

New members of Hudson Rotary Club included Police Chief Alfred Cabral and Robert Faria, proprietor of Shoppers Liquor Mart. Alexander Harasko was appointed Senior Vice-president and cashier at Hudson National Bank.

Send items for Hudson Happ’nings to 18 Cottage St., Hudson, MA 0149 or email rrimkus18@comcast.net.

J.L. Mulready Middle School students, from left: Nathan, Mack, Owen, Tea, Nico and Lucy were among students creating Valentines for residents of the Bedford VA Hospital. They were delivered by VA Volunteers, Al Temple and Walter Spencer, in rear, of the AMVETS State Department, an annual practice of the VA Volunteers.

Appraiser and entertainer Gary Sohmers, of PBS-TV “Antique Roadshow” fame, will be guest speaker at the meeting of the Hudson Historical Society Tuesday evening, Feb. 28 at 7 p.m. at First Federated Church Hall, 200 Central St. The public is invited.

COMMUNITY SPORTS

Algonquin’s Knapp claims D1 state wrestling title Local athletes place at indoor track class meets

By Bill Gilman Senior Reporter

METHUEN – Algonquin wrestler Rafael Knapp took care of a little unfinished business.

After falling in the Division 1 State final a year ago, the Titans’ star turned in a dominating performance last Saturday at Klimas Fieldhouse to claim the D1 title at 170 pounds.

Knapp (43-1 this season, 123-14 career) came into the tournament as the top seed. His path to the final included a first-round pin of Natick’s Brady Holcomb, a second-round pin of Methuen’s Joe Bolduc and an injury walkover.

In the final vs. No. 2 seed Jack Walsh of Chelmsford, Knapp was in control throughout, rolling to a 9-4 decision and the championship.

Next up for Knapp will be the all-state tournament, followed by the New Englands. He placed third in each of those competitions in 2022.

As a team, Algonquin placed 19th with 35 points.

Other results

St. John’s Curtis Ewing Jr. had a strong tournament at 160, before falling in the final.

Ewing Jr. opened with a second-round pin of Gabe Leskoski of Taunton, then toyed with Andover’s Lucas Oliveira in a 17-2 technical fall. He moved into the final with an injury forfeit over Haverhill’s Bret Nicolosi.

But in the final, he ran into a buzzsaw in the person of Rawson Iwanicki of St. John’s Prep (Peabody). Iwanicki was in a class by himself, scoring a 27-12 technical fall.

At the Division 2 state tournament, held at Milton High, Marlborough tied for ninth with 59 points. The Panthers were led by Miguel Borges (third, 152), Nealon Stemple (fourth, 195) and Kevin Desena (fourth, 220).

BOSTON – Several local athletes placed well at the state indoor track class meets last weekend at the Reggie Lewis Center.

Division 1

St. John’s senior Andres Infante claimed the D1 state title in the 600 in a time of 1:27.75.

Infante was also part of the Pioneers’ 4x200 team that placed second, along with Lucas Carvalho, Jackson Dorazio and Francis Devaney.

Shrewsbury High’s Brad Blattner placed eighth in the shot put with a best toss of 45-10.

The Shrewsbury girls’ 4x400 relay team of Marie-Anna Das, Margaret Garbarino, Meghan Dowd and Alexis Kent placed eighth in 4:21.21.

Division 4

Grafton High’s Jackson Shea placed second in the high jump with a leap of 6-2. Teammate Caden Ashmore placed fourth with a best jump of 5-10.

GHS’s Aditya Kaki placed third in the 55 meters (6.59), while Shane Wellman was fifth in the 300 (36.45).

Answers on page 20

Curtis Ewing Jr. of St. John’s battles Rawson Iawanicki of St. John’s Prep in the 160-pound final at the Division 1 State Championships Saturday in Methuen.

PHOTO/BILL GILMAN

Andres Infante

Saint John’s boys basketball victorious over Shrewsbury in intra-town match

By Evan Walsh Reporter

SHREWSBURY – An intra-town rivalry was renewed Feb. 17 as the Shrewsbury Colonials and Saint John’s Pioneers went head-to-head in a boys varsity basketball matchup.

In front of a Shrewsbury High School gymnasium packed with passionate fans from both schools, Saint John’s ultimately emerged victorious, soundly defeating Shrewsbury by a score of 70-33.

The game was only close toward the start. After a fairly even first quarter in which the Pioneers led the Colonials by only one point, Saint John’s increased their lead considerably throughout the remainder of the game.

“The kids played really hard, played intelligently, they did all the right things. I’m just so proud of them,” Saint John’s coach Bob Foley said.

Noah Basgaard led the Pioneers in scoring with 18 points, including eight free-throws on

ten attempts. George Eierman added 13 for Saint John’s. Foley said the win was particularly special because of the

relative youth and inexperience of his team.

“We’re missing four players who are all hurt, so these kids

were all [on] JV at the beginning of the year… we have nine sophomores on the team… I’m just so proud of what these kids have accomplished,” he said.

Foley recognized Seann Katubi, who scored 9 points, and Francis McGonagle, who scored 15, for their effort in the game.

“Those are two kids that at the beginning of the year weren’t even playing, and to handle all that pressure with the big crowd… they handled it all and did what they had to do,” he explained.

The boisterous Saint John’s fan section seemed to especially appreciate the effort from McGonagle. On several occasions throughout the game the crowd chanted “thank you, Francis!”

As for Shrewsbury, Jason Nickerson and Jax Roderick led the team in scoring with 6 points each. Nickerson was perfect from the free-throw line, while Roderick drilled two three-point shots.

“We didn’t play well [and] we didn’t shoot it well. Saint John’s came into our house and punched us in the mouth

[and] we didn’t react to it,” said Shrewsbury Head Coach Adrian Machado. “Credit to them; they had a young, hungry team.”

The game was also Shrewsbury’s senior night. Each senior was individually recognized before the start of the game.

Machado mentioned Scott Hanam as one particular senior who he thought had a standout performance.

“We’re going to miss him… he plays just about every minute… we just can’t make shots around him, so it makes his job a little difficult. He shows up every day and gives us his best,” he said.

Though Saint John’s handled Shrewsbury for the majority of the game, the rivalry was still alive and well. Saint John’s fans, many dressed in formal attire and sunglasses, waved newspapers to distract opponents at the free-throw line. Shrewsbury fans, dressed in all black, made sure the Pioneers knew when they made a mistake.

“It’s special with Shrewsbury,” Foley noted. “We’re only a mile apart.”

AJ Asamoah-Pratt tries to get past a Shrewsbury player’s tight defense.

Top: Jack Forgues dribbles the basketball.

Bottom: The Saint John’s bench anticipates a three-point shot.

PHOTOS/EVAN WALSH

Attaway to take the reins of Hudson High football

By Bill Gilman Senior Reporter

HUDSON – Few people are as well acquainted with the rich history and commitment to excellence of the Hudson High School football program as Zac Attaway.

A three-sport standout at HHS (Class of 2001), Attaway has served the past five seasons as an assistant coach under Dan McAnespie. So, in December, when McAnespie announced he was stepping down as Hawks’ football coach after 25 seasons, Attaway wasted little time making himself a candidate for the position.

Last week, Athletic Director Jessica Winders announced Attaway was named the team’s new head coach.

“It’s kind of surreal but it’s really a dream come true for me,” said Attaway, who played football and baseball at Worcester State. “It’s definitely an opportunity I’ve been waiting for. Definitely something I’ve always wanted to do.”

Attaway comes into the job as his son, Jake, who will be a junior this fall, enters his third season as Hudson’s starting quarterback.

“Before I took the job, I sat down with the family to talk about it. They were all

onboard,” said Attaway. “Jake was very excited about it and wanted me to do it.”

Attaway, who works as a sergeant with the Marlborough Police Department, and his wife live in Hudson with their four children. Their daughter,

Taylor, is also at Hudson High, where she plays volleyball and softball.

While Attaway will bring his own unique style and approach to the job, he is quick to point out how much he learned about football and coaching in his years as a player and an assistant under McAnespie.

“When Coach Mac first came on [at Hudson], one of the things he really preached was that a football team was really a family. That’s one of the things I’ve brought with me throughout my coaching career,” said Attaway. “Ever since I graduated, he has always welcomed alumni back. He always made you feel like you had a home in Hudson.”

Attaway inherits a strong program that went 9-2 last season and reached the Division 5 State Tournament quarterfinals. The Hawks were led by Jake, who passed for 1,371 yards and 18 TD and rushed for 1,256 yards and 15 TDs.

This year, Hudson has been dropped to Division 6 due to

Triboro Youth Hockey Association

serving Marlborough, Southborough, and Westborough area is looking

for Hockey

Players for the 2023/2024 Season. Information and registration can be done at www.Triboro.org.

Registration, tryouts and information skate session will be:

2012): 3/24/2023, 7:10PM Northstar Youth Forum

Bantams (2009, 2010): 3/22/2023, 8:30PM Navin Arena

All Girls (2007-2012): 3/27/23, 6:00PM, Navin Arena

Midgets (2005- 2008): (PENDING #'S) 3/29/23, 8:30PM Navin Arena

**Triboro is intending to offer Girls teams for U12 (Peewee) U14 (Bantam) and U16 (Half - Season). Mites and Squirts are COED.

Triboro Youth Hockey Association, Inc. has multiple bene ts outside of the normal club hockey, including Free Goalies, multiple program power skating clinics (built into annual tuition), tournament sign ups, and more ice time with two practices and a game each week. Come and join a FUNdamentally great organization with skilled coaches dedicated to the sport. For any additional information requests please contact Board@Triboro.org.

decreased enrollment. The team will remain in the MidWach C and look to defend its league championship.

Attaway comes into his new job with previous head coaching experience, on both the JV and youth levels. He understands that there are different responsibilities that come with being the leader of a program.

“As an assistant coach, I think you’re more approachable [to] the players. As head coach, you’re delegating more,” he said.

Attaway will be looking to build on the relationship between the high school program and the youth program in Hudson. He feels a strong feeder system is a key to a strong, stable high school team.

“There are relationships in place but I want to start building even stronger relationships,” he said. “I want to get my players and coaches to be more involved with youth programs. I want to see them building their own bonds and relationships.”

New Hudson High football coach Zac Attaway stands in front of Morgan Bowl.

PHOTO/BILL GILMAN