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Final five candidates for Hudson superintendent announced

By Sarah Freedman Contributing Writer

HUDSON — The Hudson School Committee is getting one step closer to finding a new superintendent to replace Marco Rodrigues, who will retire in June.

The Superintendent Search Committee announced the final five candidates to fill the Hudson Public Schools Superintendent position on Feb. 28, along with the overall process that will take place to chose who will become the new superintendent.

The Screening Committee recommended five candidates for consideration by the School Committee.

The list included Dr. Alexandra McNeil, who is currently the assistant superintendent of Needham Public Schools; Dr. Jannell PearsonCampbell, the interim superintendent of Northampton Public Schools; Dr. Brian Reagan, superintendent of Waltham Public Schools; Dr. Daniel Riley, principal at Marlborough High School and Dr. June Saba-Maguire, assistant superintendent of Brockton Public Schools.

The Screening Committee for the applicants for the position was chaired by School Committee member Molly MacKenzie, who thanked everyone who applied for the position.

The committee met in February to prepare for preliminary interviews with applicants.

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – They were so close to a three-peat.

The Marlborough Shamrocks were playing the Southern New England Admirals last year in the East Coast Football League championship game. A win, and the Shamrocks would play for its third straight national title.

They had come back from a 20-point deficit to tie the Admirals with 17 seconds left.

But their luck ran out. The Shamrocks missed the extra point, and the Admirals won in overtime, 23-20.

“You get nightmares to lose like that,” said Harrison Ingels, the team’s offensive coordinator. “I’m proud of how we fought … it’s something to build on.”

“We lost a heartbreaker last year,” added Adam Ingels, the special teams coach and Har-

City Council rejects permit for dog groomer

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – It’s “no” for a dog-grooming business, and “yes” for a precision machine shop and housing plans on Lincoln Street.

The City Council announced its decisions during its Feb. 28, meeting.

The owners of the Medway-based All Fur Love

wanted to open a dog-grooming business at 75 Lincoln St., which is the site of a former upholstery business that had been vacant since 2019. The site is within a Residential B zoning district; the City Council determined that the business was not allowed within the district.

During an Urban Affairs Committee meeting Jan. 24, the owners told the committee that there

PHOTO/MAUREEN SULLIVAN

Adam Ingels, second from left, will be the general manager for the Marlborough Shamrocks this season.

What Happened to “Save the White Cliffs”?

In response to a Letter on February 22, 2023, The Northborough Planning Board received a petition by citizens asking not to change the current split zoning on 167 Main Street a/k/a White Cliffs, the Town Planner proposed this change for the 2023 Warrant to help potential development of the lot. The citizens who signed the petition felt strongly that it was not in the best interest of the town. Its potential impact would be devastating to this area for many reasons.

most of the mansion for some of the apartments. There were no public comments allowed and the committee panel were allocated 2 questions each. Mansion restoration was not discussed.

letters to the editor

Metrowest Collaborative Development proposed a 40b housing project of 52 apartments to the White Cliffs Reuse Committee on January 12, 2023 that would include using

The usual concerns of developments are their impacts on the area and community. No questions were asked about traffic impacts or reports submitted regarding it. No questions were asked about the impact of additional goods and services, such as; police, fire, school and intersection re-engineering, that would impact our taxes. No breakdown of expected additional tax burdens were submitted or discussed. What does the town gain or lose in tax revenue?

There was no discussion of the purchase offer of only $100.

CPC funds ($2,400,000) were allocated in 2016 to purchase the land and the mansion for historic preservation. Add to that, Metrowest asked

for an additional $800,000 of CPC funds from our affordable housing bank, with a potential continued ask, indefinitely.

The Reuse Committee spent little time discussing the pros and cons of the 3 offers. Rather than going to Town Meeting before the RFP was written and asking the Town what they wanted, this advisory committee voted 4 to 1 for Metrowest Collaborative Development. Now a Reuse Committee member is publicly promoting this project as “most viable”. Why?

How does this project preserve the land and the building or really benefit Northborough?

Anna Servideo Northborough

Town of Westborough, Irespectfully request that future candidate forums (like the one on March 5) be run by a bi-partisan commis-

sion rather than the Democratic Town Committee. The questions asked reflected the national party talking points and avoided issues important to our town.

None of the questions asked anything about excellence in education.

Yet there were six questions about LGBTQ and nearly every other question focused on how we can be more diverse.

I am proud that I live in a town where my son’s friend in third grade 20 years ago, who was part of an immigrant family living in a small apartment, got the same excellent education as the kids in the big houses. That kid is now thriving in international business.

We have been diverse for a long time and should be proud of it. I believe LGBTQ kids should be respected just like all other kids. RESPECT has been a cornerstone of Westborough Schools for many, many years.

But our schools need to

be free to focus on excellence once again after our Grade 3-8 ELA reading scores dropped 12 points as a result of COVID learning restrictions. Unfortunately, this does not match the national political narrative so my request to the School Committee got ignored when I asked them in December to reorder their goals to make this a priority.

And my question on same just didn’t get asked by our narrator on Sunday, who only asked questions approved by their national political party.

It’s time for Westborough to get back to focusing on what’s good for the kids of Westborough and stop focusing so much on the national political narrative.

I support Paula Matthieu for School Committee. As someone who spent her career as a teacher, I believe she will focus on maintaining our school’s focus on excellence. Regards,

Joe Considine Westborough

COMMUNITY NEWS

Hot cocoa, luminary lighting, and fundraisers Northborough celebrates second annual Kindness Week

By Evan Walsh Reporter

NORTHBOROUGH – On a chilly Friday afternoon, there was a warm and fuzzy feeling in the Northborough Town Common as residents participated in the town’s second annual Kindness in the Common event.

Children decorated luminary bags with colorful patterns and cheerful messages meant to inspire kindness in the community. Once the sun set, the bags were arranged into the shape of a heart and illuminated, creating a spectacle that many families enjoyed.

While the spirit of kindness warmed the hearts of many, the complimentary hot chocolate also helped residents beat the wintry weather.

Suzy Cieslica, a member

of the Northborough Community Affairs Committee and organizer of the event, said that Northborough was inspired by neighboring towns throughout the pandemic and wanted to create a similar event. Promot-

The Community Advocate’s Policy on Letters to the Editor

ing kindness was one of the event’s primary goals.

“We’re hoping the kids are remembering what they did here today and continue to spread kindness,” she said. “We’re having them highlight acts of kindness that they may have completed throughout the week or a kind statement [they made].”

The event drew many families and also caught the attention of the town’s local representatives.

Kate Donaghue, (D-Westborough) who represents Northborough, told the Community Advocate that focusing on positivity and kindness was

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.

a breath of fresh air.

“You see so many issues in the world… it’s heartwarming to see some people dedicate some time to kindness,” she said.

Meg Kilcoyne, (D-Clinton), who also represents the town,, agreed with Donaghue, saying that it gave her “hope” to see kindness embraced in Northborough.

“When you forget to be kind it can lead to much broader problems,” she said. “If we forget to be kind, we can’t do anything at all.”

The Kindness in the Common event marked the end of Kindness Week, a weeklong initiative to promote kindness in Northborough.

Throughout the week, the Community Affairs Committee put on “coffee hours” with local

government officials, including the fire chief, police chief, assistant town administrator, and select board chair.

The town held a fundraiser for the Sterling Animal Shelter, partnered with the Ahimsa Haven Animal Rescue, and collected infant toys for the UMass NICU and pediatrics unit.

Residents also enjoyed Bollywood dance lessons, half-off milkshakes at MOOYAH, and a book reading by local children’s author Farhana Zia.

While Northborough had a week filled with kindness, Cieslica looks to expand the event for next year.

“More people want to be involved,” she said. “Next year, we’re going to hopefully expand it throughout the month… we’re looking forward to building it even more next year.”

Ryan Maloney, owner

Aromatic Tasting

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The senses of taste and smell both come into play while tasting wine. As air passes over the wine in your mouth, aromas are vaporized and become part of the flavor experience. When wine experts detect strawberry notes in a glass of Lambrusco, they are really smelling strawberry aromas rather than actually tasting strawberry juices. Wine tasting skills can be enhanced by developing a better nose for the smells of fruits, spices, and herbs that are commonly used to describe wine flavors. For example, pour a glass of Lambrusco and cut up a few fresh strawberries on a plate. Sniff and taste the wine. Then smell the fresh strawberries before sniffing and tasting the wine again. Did you taste strawberries?

JULIO’S LIQUORS caters to all levels of experience and take pleasure in encouraging all Julio’s customers to learn more about wine and feel excited about their purchases. We host multiple seminars, formal tastings and wine festivals throughout the month which cater to every level of wine consumer. We feature an extensive selection of wines from all over the globe. For more information, please call 508-366-1942 or visit us at 140 Turnpike Rd., Rt. 9 East

HINT: Wine labels often contain words to describe the flavors of the wine. Develop a better nose by trying other aromatic tastings with other wines.

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

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DON’T MISS OUR AD ON PAGE 9

Community members gathered in the Town Common for Kindness in the Common.

PHOTO/EVAN WALSH

‘Freezin’ for a reason:’ Polar Plunge Raises Money for Special Olympics

By Evan Walsh Reporter

MARLBOROUGH –  A number of brave souls left the warmth of their homes, cars, and jackets on March 5 to plunge into freezing cold water – all in the name of charity.

The Polar Plunge returned to Marlborough and raised more than $22,000 for Special Olympics Massachusetts (SOMA).

Over 100 people – representing groups such as the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office, Marlborough High School, and Deloitte – took the plunge.

Some cannon-balled, others chose to belly flop, but all were certainly chilled after entering the pool. Many rushed to supporters outside the pool – called towel-holders – for warmth and support.

A number of participants raised funds leading up to the plunge.

Carol Westerman was the top fundraising individual, collecting over $3,000 for

SOMA. The Worcester Sheriff’s Office raised $5,140, while Marlborough High School raised $4,581.

Marlborough Officer Andy LaRose Department organized the event. Before becoming the first plunger, LaRose took the opportunity to thank the crowd for their support.

“I want to thank everyone for being here,” LaRose said, “Special Olympics is huge in my life.”

“Every dollar we raise is for all these athletes to come and play sports for free [and] travel. Everything they do is amazing,” he said.

Marlborough’s Polar Plunge is one of over a dozen plunge locations throughout the state. The events were expected to raise over $750,000 for SOMA in total.

In a brief speech before the plunge, SOMA’s Stephanie Esposito said that the state is expected to surpass the previous year’s fundraising.

“[This year’s fundraising] is going to beat last year’s total, and it’s going to beat the year

Westborough Office Space

before that,” she announced to the eager plungers. “We are on track for a third recordbreaking Polar Plunge season – and it’s all thanks to you.”

Polar Plunge fundraisers were set for Framingham, Newton (Boston College), Lakeville, Harwich, Westfield, and Revere.

“We’ve been holding Polar Plunge events since December, and we’re going to keep going through the month of March,” Esposito said.

For more information on SOMA and the Polar Plunge, visit https://www.specialolympicsma.org

On March 5th, participants in the Polar Plunge jumped into a pool of freezing water to raise funds for the Special Olympics Massachusetts.

PHOTOS/EVAN WALSH

Select Board discusses potential Bruen Road property divestment

By Sarah Freedman Contributing Writer

HUDSON — Emergency services will continue to be provided to the Bruen Road area. However, the Hudson Select Board considered the future of a 46-acre parcel and how it could be used at their Feb. 27 meeting.

The Select Board authorized the Fire Chief Bryan Johannes to sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Department of Defense United States Army Garrison (USAG) for routine 911 services for to the 86-acre USAG Natick Army Family Housing area on Bruen Road.

The prior agreement was between the USAG and former Fire Chief John Blood and signed in 2016.

Since, changes have occurred in the area, including the condition of 14 duplexes. The duplexes were housing for people assigned to do civilian work for the army, but the

buildings are no longer used anymore.

Over the course of the last three years of his service, Johannes noted the buildings have been vandalized.

“It kind of has fallen into a state of disrepair,” he said. “So the army is looking to divest 46 acres from that 86-acre parcel, and I became aware of it and thought it was important.”

The military would handle the main investigation, Johannes said, and they have gone to the area to address the vandalism issue as well as to look into repairs and to ensure water is available on site.

The divestment is because, Johannes said, “It’s at a point where it is falling into a state of such disrepair.”

He came to the Select Board with the idea of whether there was any interest in the property.

“So you want to just give it to us?” Select Board Chair Scott Duplisea inquired.

Johannes said he could not speak to that one way or the

Nominations for Humanitarian of the Year now open

MARLBOROUGH— Mayor

Arthur G. Vigeant is seeking nominations for the 2023 Humanitarian of the Year Award.

This award is given biennially to an individual who has made significant contributions to the Marlborough community through humanitarian efforts. This individual will be recognized for selfless dedication and service to others. The winner will exemplify compassion and community spirit.

The deadline for nominations is April 28, and they may be submitted to the mayor’s office.

Marlborough Humanitarian awardees are honored every other year at the Mayor’s Charity Ball. The last event took place in 2018 due to the pandemic. This biennial event was started in 1960 by Mayor Kusson Haddad, out of deep compassion for neighbors in need.

The proceeds from the charitable evening replenish the Mayor’s Charity Relief Fund that assists community members during emergencies and times of duress. These funds help those who may have exhausted all other avenues of assistance and are not utilized regularly

but for unforeseen circumstances.

“The award is open to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional humanitarian service and whose accomplishments reflect a true passion for helping others. Nominees should have demonstrated leadership, dedication, and innovation in their efforts to improve the lives of others beyond the scope of their job. We encourage you to take this opportunity to recognize the hard work and dedication of someone you know who has made a significant difference in the lives of others making a positive impact to our community,” said Vigeant.

Nominees must be available to attend the Mayor’s Charity Benefit scheduled for Saturday, May 13, at 6:30 p.m. at The Burrow, 1000 Green District Blvd. Questions about the benefit can be addressed to the co-chairs, Meredith Harris, 508-801-2134, or Bob Kays, 508-981-2960.

Humanitarian of the Year submissions may be addressed to the mayor’s office, Marlborough City Hall, 140 Main St., or email to mayorscharityball@ marlborough-ma.gov.

other, but there was concern about it being uninhabited given the condition of the buildings. He added the department will still respond to the area if called, regardless of a MOU. He added, “We’ll respond to support the military.”

Select Board member Michael Burks asked what would happen if they did nothing concerning the agreement. Johannes said it has “just been a longstanding practice,” and

the response of the department would not change.

There was an inquiry whether the jersey barriers hindered access to the area, and Johannes answered, “I can gain access anywhere.”

Duplisea emphasized the need to know what the plan could be for the acres, including a right of first refusal possibility.

He suggested that Executive Assistant Thomas Gregory

could figure out what to do if the town responds to services for the divested acres and the buildings sat unused.

Johannes said there should be a meeting with the involved parties, such as the fire and police departments, to establish what is “the end goal.”

Engineering oversight for Eversource project

The board unanimously approved and authorized a contract with Haley Ward Engineering to provide engineering oversight on Eversource’s planned underground power line running in town for $150,000.

“This $150,000 is completely funded by Eversource,” said Duplisea.

The 150,000-volt underground powerline would run between Hudson Light and Power substation and Eversource substation in Sudbury. It would run within an inactive MBTA railroad corridor for 7.6 miles and pass through Sudbury, Marlborough, Stow and Hudson.

A look down Bruen Road in Hudson. The Select Board recently discussed the future of a 46-acre parcel on this road.

PHOTO/MAUREEN SULLIVAN

Rosemary Rimkus

HUDSON Happ’nings

HUDSON – The Jackson families spent school vacation break with a memorable trip to Belize.

From Feb. 19 to 26, vacationing at Sleeping Giant Resort and Ambergris Caye, were Hudson residents Brett and Liz Jackson and sons, Will, 18; and twins Ben and Sam, 15; and Brett’s cousin, Rob Jackson of Marlborough; his wife, Jill Jackson; Colin, 19; and Clare, 16.

At the Belmopan Resort, they visited Xunantunich Mayan ruins, enjoyed cave tubing through jungles, hiking and swimming in ancient cenotes (which are pools in limestone sink-holes). At Ambergris Caye they swam in crystal waters and snorkeled at Hoi Chan Marine Reserve.

Liz Jackson said it was a “very active” vacation, and they proved they could keep up with “the kids.”

The families have previously taken vacation trips together to Costa Rica and Quebec.

‘Off the blotter’

Hudson Police Chief Rick DiPersio welcomed two new officers to the force, both of them experienced and well educated.

Officer Heather Manning (officer #141) holds a BA degree in legal studies and has had 15 years of police experience. She has served as a detective and certified field training officer.

Officer Nicholas Girard (officer #142) holds B.S. and M.S.

degrees in criminal justice. A seasoned law enforcement professional, he has attained a wide array of training and certification and has experience in community engagement.

Welcome to HPD, Officers Manning and Girard!

Garden design program

“Garden Design,” a visually appealing program by Joanne Pearson, professional photographer and landscape architect, will be presented at Hudson Garden Club meeting Monday, March 20 at 7 p.m. at Hudson Senior Center, 29 Church Street.

Pearson will present concepts for planning and modifying gardens suitable for all lifestyles, schedule and budget. Doors open at 6:40 p.m., masks are optional, parking is free and complimentary refreshments are served. A $5 donation is requested from non-members. For more information contact Cindy Provencher 978-6183467. Rimkus | 7

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Giant stalagmites were features of the Hoi Chan Marine Reserve, where the nine members of the Jackson families enjoyed snorkeling during their vacation in Belize Feb. 19 to Feb. 26.

Residents travel to Belize, Hudson police welcome officers

Grant for VetsRide

Hudson Select Board have accepted a donation to the Hudson Veteran Service Dept. for the VetsRide program, from the Robert Lloyd Corkin Charitable Foundation, for $10,000.

Walk for Hunger

Walk for Hunger will return to Boston for its 55th year, on Sunday, May 7, after a three year absence due to the pandemic. During the respite, Hudson walker Mary Walling and friends have continued an annual walk through the neighborhood, collecting donations. Recipients of funds raised include children, college students, the elderly and the unemployed, according to Walling, who has participated in almost every walk. For more information go to https://www.projectbread.org/ the-walk-for-hunger. Donations may be sent to her at 99 Fort Meadow Drive, Hudson, MA 01749.

Softer Side of Celtic

Multi-instrumentalist Jeff Snow will present the musical program, “Softer Side of Celtic,” Thursday evening, March 23 at 6:30 p.m. at Hudson Public Library. The talented entertainer will share the music and

the stories behind the music of Scotland, Ireland and England. Register at huds.pl/celtic2023.

Appraiser rescheduled

Appearance of appraiser

Gary Sohmer at Hudson Historical Society meeting Feb. 28 was postponed by snowstorm to April 25 meeting. At the March 28 meeting, 7 p.m. at First Federated Church Hall, longtime sports scribe Howie Newman will present “A Musical Sports Show.”

Rifle history

Hudson resident Andy Massa will present “The History of the Battle Rifle, 1775-1975”

Thursday, March 16 at 9:30 a.m. at Hudson Senior Center, Church Street. He will display rifles from the Revolutionary War flintlocks through to the Vietnam M14 and M16. To sign up call the Center, 978-5629638.

SPM performs Symphony Pro Musica will present Mahler’s powerful Symphony No. 5 and Mozart’s “Exultate Jubilate” Saturday evening, March 25 at 7:30 p.m at Paul “Skip” Johnson Hall, Hudson High School and Sunday, March 26 at 3:30 p.m. at St. Mark’s School, Southborough. Extraordinary young vocalist

Yeonjae Cho will be featured performer. For more information go to www.symphonypromusica.org or phone SPM office 978-562-0939.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

March 11 - Sally Bonazzoli, Tyler Smith, Sean Viveiros and Karen Lenthall

March 12 - MaryLee King and Jeff Wood, Jr.

March 13 - Emily Greenwood

March 14 - Eunice Tighe, Phyllis Glynn, Don Newton, Bob Eddy, Adriana Santos, Zachary Vorce and Nichols Fowle

March 15 - Andy O’Keefe, Patrick Sullivan, Madison Martin, Bethany Tsioros, Paul Jusseaume, Anne Lally, Mia Bush and Pastor Roseanne Roberts

March 16 - Sonya Cabral, Melissa Sniffin, Nathan Clarke, Dawn Sugarman and Joe Kerrigan

March 17 - Jocelyn Durrenburger, Shelly Sacco, Ed

Furtado, Bob St. John, Tito Morales, Chris Moreira and Benjamin Cabral

March 18 - Johannah Lynch, Sheila Caty and son, Bob

March 19 - Bob Fitzpatrick, George Meers, Jr., Jillian Zagura and Lisa Mooradian

March 20 - Eleanor Grasso, Brandon Somes and Nancy Stupik

March 21 - Carly White, Kris Luoto, Peggy Temple, Steve Monstur, Jared Gardiner and Emily MacPherson

March 22 - Joanne Newton, Christine Murphy and Eric Davis

March 23 - Avery Stead, Timothy Quinn, Phil Wilgus, Sean McMahon and Matt Sukis

March 24 - Ricky Veo, Steve Anastas, George Luoto and Ricky Cotton

LOOKING BACK TO 1973

Hudson High School “Mathletes,” coached by Brian Sullivan of the faculty, included Arthur Franke, Mark Johnson

and Kathy Kozur. Edward Lattinville attained the dean’s list at Worcester State College, where he was a senior.

Hudson Garden Club president Sandra Joyce announced the club would sponsor the first Flower Show. Mrs. Richard Curtis was chairman of the local “March of Dimes” fund drive. Hudson Catholic High student Kathleen Wolkovich was named “Betty Crocker Homemaker of Tomorrow.” Mrs. Mary Douglas, proprietor, observed the eighth anniversary of Hudson Bridal House, 14 Lincoln St. Manuel Miranda retired from the Marlboro Footwear Co. Mrs. Grace Woodard Buteau, noted organist, pianist and teacher, presented organ recital at Hudson Public Library.

Send items for Hudson Happ’nings to 18 Cottage St., Hudson, MA 01749 or email rrimkus18@comcast.net.

The Jackson families of Hudson and Marlborough spent spring break on vacation in Belize, including a visit to the Xunantunich Mayan ruins, above: Hudson residents Brett and Liz Jackson and sons, Will, Ben and Sam, at right, and Brett’s cousin, Marlborough resident Rob Jackson, wife Jill, son Colin and daughter Clare.

Rimkus | from page 6

Hudson Police Officer Nicholas Girard

Hudson Police Officer Heather Manning

Hudson VFW 1027 celebrates 100-year anniversary

By Sarah Freedman Contributing Writer

HUDSON — In Hudson, the VFW Post #1027 located on 3 Palmieri Rd. has been operating as a vital part of the Hudson community for decades and will celebrate its 100 year anniversary in 2023.

The Hudson Select Board recognized this anniversary during their Feb. 27 meeting.

Select Board Chair Scott Duplisea read the citation into record, which stated, “We, the Select Board, congratulate the REJW Manning VFW Post #1027 on their 100th anniversary and thank you for all of your service to our country.”

On March 7, the chapter turns 100 years old, said Senior Vice Commander of the 1027 Post Wayne Grant. May 14 marks the date for a celebratory dinner, and invitations will be sent out.

“We’re going to have a nice dinner and everything. No music … so nobody’s going to have to be able to dance,” said Grant.

He noted that there will be speeches and possibly an invi-

We

Screen

tation to House Representative Kate Hogan (D-Stow), who represents Hudson, to attend.

“We do appreciate getting recognized, though,” said Grant.

He said it was difficult keeping the post running during the COVID-19 pandemic, but he appreciated making it to the 100-year anniversary.

“You look good for 100,” said Duplisea.

VetRides receives donation

In related news, the board accepted a $10,000 donation to

MARLBOROUGH – The sixth annual Remembering Our Angels 5K Run/Walk will take place on Saturday, May 13, at 10 a.m. at the Loyal Order of Moose Lodge, 57 Fitchburg St.

The route will utilize the Assabet River Trail. Amenities will include water stations, restrooms and raffles.

Participants should park at Assabet Valley High School at 215 Fitchburg St. There will be a shuttle bus transporting participants back and forth from the Moose Lodge.

Entry fee for the in-person and virtual races will be $30, which includes a T-shirt; for those entering the virtual event and not wishing a T-shirt, the fee will be $25.

Participants who register by the T-shirt deadline of April 21 will receive a tech race shirt.

VFW Post #1027 sits on 3 Palmieri Road in Hudson. The post will be celebrating its 100th anniversary this year and is planning a celebratory dinner this spring.

the Veterans Services Department for the VetRides program. The gift came from the Robert Lloyd Corkin Charitable Foundation.

VetRides is a program that provides transportation to veterans and their caregivers who live in Hudson, Stow or Maynard to medical appointments in both the local and Boston areas. Participants pay nothing, and nearly 200 rides were given last year, according to the Hudson Senior Center website.

Veterans Services Officer Brian Stearns is the contact to learn more about the program or request a ride. The number for more information is 978-568-9635.

“I just think it’s a fantastic thing,” Duplisea said of the yearly donation to support the VetRides program.

Awards will be given to the top overall male and female finishers, and top male and female finishers for each age group (18 and under; 19-29; 30-39; 40-49; 50-59; 60 and older).

There will also be a trophy for the team with the most runners/walkers participating in the race.

After the race, there will be an after party with free food and music.

Proceeds will benefit Team Sharing Inc, a national nonprofit that offers support to families who have lost a child to substance use disorder (SUD). It was founded by Marlborough resident Cheryl Juaire, who lost two sons to SUD: Corey Merrill at age 23 in 2011 and Sean Merrill at 42 in 2021.

If the race is canceled or rescheduled due to weather or

other unforeseen event, all registration fees from runners and walkers who cannot participate will be donated to Team Sharing. There will be no refunds. Sponsorship opportunities range from $250 to $2,500+ with different levels of runner/ walker interaction and an opportunity to have a lawn sign displayed in front of the Moose Lodge during the race. Contact the race director for more information.

To register, go to https:// racewire.com/register. php?id=13426

Team Sharing now offers a memorial page; to visit and to share, go to www.teamsharinginc.org/our-mission/ourangels/.

Learn more about Team Sharing at teamsharinginc.org and facebook.com/teamsharinginc.

PHOTOS/LAURA HAYES

Developer buyout option could be removed from zoning regulations

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – The city is amending its regulations regarding mixed-used and affordable housing.

During the City Council’s Urban Affairs Committee meeting on Feb. 23, members discussed some of the proposed zoning amendments within Chapter 650, which governs mixed use and affordable housing. This could include dropping the “buyout” option for developers and having affordable units remain in perpetuity.

Councilor Katherine Robey, who chairs the Urban Affairs Committee, has been spearheading the effort to amend the zoning code.

She said her goal with the amendments “was to remove the buyout developers could use instead of providing affordable units; make housing built under site plan approval also require affordable housing; and to offer affordable housing to a range of incomes.”

According to Council President Michael Ossing, there are 1,857 affordable housing units in Marlborough – about 100 units above the 10% threshold that would otherwise allow developers to use Chapter 40B to build housing in the city.

Under Chapter 40B, developers can override local zoning bylaws in order to increase the number of affordable houses in communities where fewer than 10% of housing is defined as affordable.

Ossing said that some affordable units could switch to market rate before 2030, when the next U.S. Census is taken.

“We don’t have to worry until 2030,” he said.

Ossing joined other committee members in support of having affordable units remain in perpetuity.

Committee members also discussed the “buyout” option, where developers could offer cash in lieu of building affordable units.

The committee would like to drop this option.

“I like not having their contractors buy their way” through a project, said Ward 1 Councilor Laura J. Wagner. “The buyout has to go.”

There was also a discussion on a change to the minimum number of units required before developers need to set

aside units for affordable housing. After much discussion, the committee agreed to amend the regulations from “20 or more units” to “eight or more units.”

Housing units of eight or more would be required to have 15% of total units sold or leased to families meeting specified guidelines. For any development with more than

18 units, 20% of total units must be sold or leased to families meeting guidelines. Additional language would clarify that the units would be targeted for households earning less than 80% of the area median income as set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) within the Standard

Metropolitan Statistical Area that includes Marlborough, and that at least one-third of the units sold or leased would be to households earning less than 50% of the median income set by HUD.

The proposed amended regulations may also remove a developer’s option to find alternate sites, with City Council

approval.

The changes discussed at the Feb. 23 meeting will be updated by the city’s solicitor, Jason Grossfield. The proposed zoning amendments was approved by the Urban Affairs Committee on March 6. The amendments will go before the full City Council on Monday, March 13.

WHISK(E)Y WEDNESDAYS

Irish Whiskey Seminar

March 15 • 7 pm

Irish whiskeys with whiskey educator James Adams.

10

12

16 The Sexton

No 12

W.D. O’Connell Irish Whiskey

March 29 • 7 pm

Owner and master blender Daithi O’Connel will join us ito kick off his first releases in Mass! If this doesn’t get you in the mood for St. Paddy’s Day, I don’t know what will! Purchase a $10 Julio’s Gift Card to attend.

Plantation Rum & Long Pond Distillery

April 5 • 7 pm

Join Ryan with Adrienne Stoner as we explore the wide world of rums from Plantation Rum, Long Pond, and Canerock! A whopping THREE Loch & K(e)y selections will be on offer, including the just-dropped Panama 2012 finished in Pauillac wine casks!

on Tastings and Events in the menu

Mon-Sat: 9 am -

am - 7 pm

George Houghton was Hudson’s leading industrialist

By David Bonazzoli History Columnist

HUDSON – Why does Hudson have two roads named Houghton? Here is the story of George Houghton.

Born of Quaker ancestry in Canada in 1822, Houghton was apprenticed to a shoemaker at age eight. In his early years, he worked in Francis Brigham’s Hudson factory. But Houghton was a man of indomitable willpower, and evenings found him making shoes in his home.

His first factory was a large three-story building on the east corner of Main and High Streets. Needing more floor space, he purchased a vacant railroad building on Main Street at Houghton Court. He then moved his factory and attached it to the rear.

By 1872, his 335 employees produced over 3,000 shoes per

day. He also built a leather tannery, which employed fifty-five men. His was one of the largest shoe factories in the country.

At business meetings in Boston men would exclaim, “Look, it’s Houghton, of Hudson!”

Wishing to learn from the best, the Japanese Embassy visited.

Known as “Boss” Houghton, he was a generous, public-spirited man who paid the highest wages in the industry. He built a park on Main Street west of Broad, placed a large fountain in the center, and planted a row of trees where the sidewalk is today.

The number of his private charities is legion. Houghton financially aided every religious group and was a founder of the Unitarian Church. He was largely responsible for building the High Street School, and he funded a private school in his building and paid the teachers’ salaries. He was a substantial backer of our fire department.

The great Boston fire of 1872 destroyed his shoe inventory, and in 1873 a worldwide depres-

sion took hold. While others were laying off, Houghton kept his men employed. By 1875 he was bankrupt.

As he had in his youth, Houghton now worked for other men. He died in 1896.

A massive fire destroyed the

Houghton factory in 1904. His home was torn down in the late 1950s, to make room for Hudson Catholic High School.

Traces of Houghton’s life remain. An ornamental window glass from his home is in the Hudson Historical Society

museum, as is the eagle from the factory’s weathervane. And the apartment building on Broad and Winter Streets was originally a wing of his factory. Let’s all remember George Houghton, one of Hudson’s finest men!

Avidia Bank taps new president, CEO

HUDSON – Avidia Bank has a new president and chief executive officer.

The board of directors has announced that Robert D. Cozzone will replace current President and CEO Mark O’Connell.

O’Connell will retire in May after 35 years.

“I am grateful to be selected by the board to join a capable and dedicated team, and I look forward to building lasting relationships with them,” said Cozzone. “Avidia’s genuine commitment to the community and its tradition of innovation and excellence in customer service is admirable. The bank has enjoyed tremendous growth and success under Mark’s leadership, and I’m committed to continuing that legacy.”

Cozzone graduated from Bridgewater State University, and he earned his master’s of science in finance from the Boston College Carroll School of Management.

He previously worked for 24 years at Rockland Trust, most recently serving as its executive vice president and chief operating officer. Before that role, he served as Rockland’s chief financial officer and retail executive.

He serves on a number of boards and committees, including the Massachusetts Business Roundtable, Thompson Island Outward Bound, Plimoth Patuxet Finance Committee and Bridgewater State University Riccardi School of Business Advisory Board.

While serving as chief op -

erating officer, Cozzone was responsible for about 1,000 employees and 123 retail branches.

In a press release, Avidia noted that Cozzone’s leadership, strategic planning and execution experience as well as his knowledge of finance, treasury and consumer and business banking would be instrumental to help Avidia grow and continue to meet the needs of individuals and businesses in the coming years.

“The board is extremely excited about Rob becoming the next CEO at Avidia,” said board Chair Paul Blazar. “We are confident that he is the right individual to take us to the next level of achievement as a successful, independent community bank.”

“The first thing to do in the morning is to thank God that He watched over you and your loved ones during the night, and now another day is before you with all its opportunity. God gives you this day, and it is a day to rejoice in.”

In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.

~ Norman Vincent Peale

Psalm 5:3

George “Boss” Houghton built one of the largest shoe factories in the country in Hudson and was also a generous philanthropist in the town.

George “Boss” Houghton built one of the largest shoe factories in the country in Hudson and was also a generous philanthropist in the town.

Tina Marian to hold EFT workshops

NORTHBOROUGH – Tina Marian of Medicine

My Way will be holding EFT workshops later this month.

EFT is short for Emotional Freedom Techniques. This is a “meridian tapping” technique that accesses the body’s energy system and is used to calm down the frenetic energy in the body’s electrical system.

Marian’s classes are fast-paced, lively and informative.

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Northborough p: 508-393-9000

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Tina Marian of Medicine My Way will be holding EFT workshops later this month.

By the end of the class, participants will be able to use EFT on themselves and go home with several EFT tapping scripts.

There will be a virtual class on March 18 from 1 to 4 p.m. There will be another class on March 19 at 21 Wiles Farm Road in Northborough. There is limited seating available, and participants are encouraged to reserve early. The fee is $40.

Participants can RSVP by emailing tmarian@aol.com or calling 508-523-7132.

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schools to get more Chapter 70

By Sarah Freedman

Contributing Writer

HUDSON — Executive Assistant Thomas Gregory reviewed the state aid numbers for the Fiscal Year 2024 and how Hudson will fare in terms of funding for schools at the Feb. 28 Finance Committee meeting.

According to Gregory, Gov. Maura Healey released her figures in regards to local aid, and it included an increase in Chapter 70 funding.

Because Hudson is a minimum aid community that receives a per student increase, and the town received a $60 per student increase, which totaled to $60,000, in 2023.

This is not very much, Gregory said.

For 2024, the increase in Chapter 70 monies for Hudson was over $700,000 in comparison.

“The governor is pledging to fully fund The Student Opportunity Act this year,” he added.

Gregory reported that the

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charter school reimbursement, however, was reduced. It is one of two offsets that have specific uses for the school district.

Charter school figures are in the cherry sheet in both revenue and expenses, and that number has significantly increased. Gregory noted he had budgeted $400,000 over the initial $3.9 million.

“It’s essentially level-funded,” Gregory said.

He believed this fact helps Hudson because there would be more available revenue for appropriation. Gregory said he had pledged to the School Committee that he would attempt to increase their appropriation in the scenario that the Chapter 70 funding increased.

Although he did not have an exact number, he said, “I will be able to do that.”

He noted he was waiting for the member assessments for Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School, which he hoped might decrease.

Surplus

The tax levy figure for Hudson is $63.8 million, which results in a surplus of $833,000. This amount would be partially used for the schools, Gregory said.

Finance Committee member Sam Calandra asked how much of the deficit it would offset, and Gregory said the School Committee would have that answer.

They have communicated publicly about the funding cliff that is fast approaching in fiscal year 2025.

Gregory initially recommended a 2.75% increase over

last fiscal year, which the committee could budget for. They are currently drawing more from their school choice funding.

“They communicated as much at their meeting,” Gregory said.

Calandra asked what the additional funds would be used for if the School Committee has budgeted at a 2.75% increase. According to Gregory, the operating budget would be balanced for fiscal 2024, but it may require a draw on the reserves.

Member Eugenia Vineyard said the school choice could be depleted by FY 2025.

She noted the fact they have “pulled at least a million out of this budget” and suggested talking with the School Committee about their budget. Gregory added the School Committee is trying to transition about a $1 million worth of some of the ESSER COVID-19 grants onto the town budget as well.

Calandra noted there has been a practice for years of using school choice monies to cover budget deficits. He said the town does not get as much money as they send out.

“We’re deficit spending on school choice,” said Calandra.

He said they are benefitting from a reserve that he believed the town cannot pay for. Gregory agreed that “decisions needed to be made.”

Calandra believed that the town should use the surplus to cover the expense of sending kids out of district.

Gregory noted that if he has met his financial obligations on the municipal side that “he would try to help them as best I can.”

PAGE 1

Final five candidates for Hudson superintendent announced

Superintendent | from page 1

“As a committee we enjoyed our conversation with these candidates who represented a wide range of experiences and backgrounds,” said MacKenzie.

She noted the many hours the committee spent reviewing applications, interviewing candidates and deliberating in the preliminary selection process. There were lively and insightful conversations, MacKenzie said, and the group consisted of “truly dedicated people.”

Applications and information for the five candidates would be posted shortly to the Hudson Schools website.

Carolyn Burke, a search consultant with the New England School Development Council, called the process “well organized.”

“You just did a get job,” she told MacKenzie.

Burke said the superintendent search is now in the School Committee’s hands and noted it was “probably one of

the most important decisions that you’re going to make.”

In the month of March, the committee’s work will include scheduling and calling candidates, as well as organizing workshops.

Burke asked School Committee Chair Michele Tousignant Dufour what the scheduling process will be for the final candidates.

“We should look to see what more days we have, and at this point we said that we weren’t going to try to do anything until the 13th,” said Tousignant Dufour.

Ultimately, the schedule for candidate visits will be Pearson-Campbell on March 7, McNeil on March 14, Riley on March 16, Reagan on March 20 and Saba-Maguire on March 22.

The details for now are outlined as having the candidates meet families, students and the public constituents at Hudson High from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and the School Committee will

conduct interviews at 7 p.m.

The public is invited to attend the Q&A session and meet the candidates, one of which could be the next superin -

tendent of the Hudson Public Schools. Resumes for each candidate and more information is available at http://hudson.k12. ma.us/important_informa -

tion/superintendent_search.

In the end, Burke said the job of the School Committee was to “decide who is the best match for Hudson.”

Seniors earn superintendent association award

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

MARLBOROUGH – Two Marlborough High School students – Alexandre Banos and Eduardo Castro – have earned the Worcester County Superintendents’ Association Award.

Superintendent Mary Murphy made the announcement during the Feb. 28 School Committee meeting.

Banos is a member of the National Honor Society and a recipient of the Harvard Book Award. A musician and gamer, he is a volunteer at the Marlborough Community Food Pantry. He works during the summer at Re/Max and at Altitude Tram-

poline Park during the school year.

Banos has successfully completed five Advanced Placement courses and is recognized by the College Board as an AP Scholar with Honor. He is currently enrolled in four additional AP courses during his senior year at Marlborough High School.

Banos is currently ranked number one in his class and has a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 4.92.

“Alexandre is a true leader at Marlborough High School (MHS) and a dedicated member of our community,” said Murphy.

Banos plans to major in computer science, with dreams of

developing a video game.

Castro has been a member of the National Honor Society, and he is the current president of the Robotics Club.

Castro has also received multiple faculty awards, including the mathematics faculty award, the Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony Book Award and the Rensselaer Medal for math and science.

Along with all his passions in school, Castro has also held multiple part-time jobs, and he has interned for the Department of Conservation. He is currently ranked number two in his class at Marlborough High School with a 4.87 cumulative GPA. Award | 14

City Council rejects permit for dog groomer

worked out by the city were all manufacturing activities shall take place indoors; there will be no deliveries of materials or equipment; and there will be no shipments allowed on weekends.

Rotary club, chamber to sponsor recycling event

be a dog-grooming business downstairs and rental units upstairs. All Fur Love proposed 11 parking spaces at the site.

Ultimately, the council unanimously voted against a special permit for All Fur Love, citing a possible increase in traffic as a result of clients coming to and from the business, as well as noise coming from customers and dogs.

This comes after the council’s Urban Affairs Committee voted to deny the special permit at that January meeting.

At that time, committee members voiced support for the business itself, but they had

expressed concerns about its impact on traffic and noise.

“Adding a dog-grooming business would be wonderful, but the impact would be detrimental to the neighborhood,” said Councilor Laura Wagner during the Jan. 24 committee meeting.

Action Precision Machining approved Octo48 LLC, doing business as Action Precision Machining, will soon convert a former warehouse at 269 Mechanic St. into a tool-and-die shop now that its special permit has been approved.

Among the conditions

The maximum hours for manufacturing activities – excluding administrative and maintenance operations, and employees arriving and leaving before and after shifts – shall be Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Multifamily project approved

The council also granted a special permit to 272 Lincoln St. LLC for a 12-unit family dwelling.

The plans call for 12 twobedroom units and 24 parking spaces.

As part of the special permit, the applicant will install fencing and/or landscaping for abutters, repaint the crosswalks of the Assabet River Rail Trail on Lincoln and Cashman streets, widen the sidewalk along Cashman Street and take down the billboard.

MARLBOROUGH – Clean out your garages and basements –the Marlborough Rotary Club and the Marlborough Regional Chamber of Commerce will be hosting a recycling event.

Come to Navin Rink, 451 Bolton St., on Saturday, April 22, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

All communities are welcome.

For $40 per carload or truckload (plus additional costs for certain items), you can recycle:

• Ele ctronics – computer, CPU towers, modems, routers, switches, circuit boards, keyboards, mice, accessories, printers, desk and cell phones, VCRs and DVD players, radios, laptops, cameras, cables, wires, games, copiers, fax machines, metal desks, metal file cabinets, scanners, servers, ballasts, etc.

• Ele ctrical equipment –small countertop appliances, motors, shop equipment, heaters, fans, extension cords, lamps, medical equipment, fire alarms, light fixtures, chargers, etc.

• Metals – pipes, scrap metal, metal pots and pans, all metal ware, bicycles, etc.

• Large appliances – washers, dryers, microwave ovens, stoves, hot wa -

ter heaters, dishwashers, compactors, heaters

• Yard and lawn equipment – lawn mowers, snow blowers, chain saws, weed whackers, power yard equipment (no liquids).

There will be an additional cost for TVs (any size, $40 each); computer monitors (any type, $25 each); computer or audio speakers ($20 per pair); child car seats ($20); household vacuums ($20 each); treadmills ($25 each); appliances with freon (small $15 each, large $25 each); lithium ion batteries (power tools - $5 each); lead acid batteries (yard equipment, boats, cars, RVs$10 each); small batteries (AA, AAA, C or D - $5 per quart).

Items not accepted include wood, bulk paper, light bulbs (all kinds), fluids, Styrofoam, plastics, tires, mattresses, textiles, fabrics, upholstered furniture, carpet, pool liners, books, ceramics, porcelains, brick, stone, hoses, glass, glass table tops, board games, large plastic children’s toys. Proceeds will benefit the Marlborough Rotary Club Foundation and the MRCC’s not-for-profit designation. For information, visit www. marlboroughrotary.org, or elaine@elainemcdonald.com.

Marlborough seniors earn supt. association award

Award | from page 13

To date, Castro has successfully completed four AP courses and is recognized by the College Board as an AP Scholar. Castro scored a 5 on all the AP exams he took during the 2021-2022 school year. As a senior, he is currently enrolled in four AP courses.

He is interested in pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering.

“Eduardo is known for being an incredibly dedicated and inquisitive student in the classroom who has a passion for problem solving,” said Murphy.

Light poles installed in parking lot

Douglas Dias, director of Finance and Operations for Marlborough Public Schools, also presented the building updates during the meeting.

The Facilities Department

recently completed a project that installed light poles in the Hildreth School’s lower parking lot. This will enhance the safety and usability of those parking spaces during winter months.

The department completed the work of replacing three rooftop HVAC units at Whitcomb Middle School. The replaced units were at end of life and service the school’s auditorium and library. Two additional rooftop units will be replaced when the kitchen redesign project, which is scheduled for this summer, is completed. Additionally, control management systems in the school’s boiler rooms have been upgraded.

The department has replaced 13 water fountains at Marlborough High School with automatic bottle fillers. They expect to completely replace the remaining water fountains at MHS by the end of the school year.

Dog groomer | from page 1

All Fur Love hoped to develop this site at 75 Lincoln Street.

PHOTO/MAUREEN SULLIVAN

New Shamrocks head coach, general manager named

Shamrocks | from page 1

rison’s brother.

As they prepare for 2023, the Shamrocks will have both brothers on the sidelines again –Harrison as offensive coordinator and as head coach; Adam as special teams coach (although that could change) and general manager.

“I’ve got a good football mind, and I love play calling,” said Harrison.

“The special teams [coaching] comes easy for me at this point, but I may step down,” said Adam.

Harrison has been with the organization since 2006; he played for the Shamrocks for 10 seasons, and he joined the team as offensive coordinator after being the offensive coordinator for Quabbin Regional High School.

Harrison said that Adam’s new job as general manager “is one of the most overlooked positions” in the game.

“He has to make sure the rosters are checked, the contracts are signed, recruiting, the website design … we’re so fortunate

to have Adam,” he said.

Adam said a big goal on the horizon will be to help the team reconnect with the community.

“We lost our way a bit last year,” he said. “I want to get back and involved in the community.”

Adam said the team plans to reach out to local businesses and schools.

“We want to bring back what makes the Shamrocks the Shamrocks,” he said.

Michael Harpin, the defensive coordinator, will also be-

come the assistant coach.

“Having Mike Harpin means a lot,” said Harrison. “I hold him in such high regard. I feed off of him. His game-day focus is unparalleled.”

Harpin was born and raised in Marlborough, and he grew up watching the Shamrocks.

“I played in Pop Warner, Marlborough High, the Shamrocks … I hit the entire cycle,” said Harpin.

He’s also coached on the high school and college levels, including at Marlborough High

School, Assumption College, Fitchburg State and Framingham State universities.

Harpin joined the Shamrocks after graduating from college. He said playing semi-pro football’s a lot different from playing in high school and college.

“The first year, you’re watching and learning,” he said. “The second year, you have a sense of it.”

By that time, Harpin was on special teams. At the start of his third season, Harpin became a starter.

By January 2022, Harpin was on the sidelines as the team’s defensive coordinator. It was also when he lost his father, “Vinnie” Harpin.

“He got to see the national title game,” said Harpin. “Last season was hard, not having him there.”

Outlook for 2023 Harpin and the Ingels foresee continued success with the Shamrocks. This season, the Shamrocks will welcome a couple of rookies.

“We’re looking great,” said Harpin. “It’s going to be between us and the [Southern New England] Admirals.”

Harpin said the Shamrocks have a “good” problem – the team has eight-10 defensive linemen on the roster.

“It’s hard to rotate … 36 plays, three-four plays each. They’re all good players,” said Harpin. “These seasons go long. We need that depth, we need those players.”

For information on the Shamrocks, visit tinyurl. com/539zyhm9.

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Harrison Ingels will be the Shamrocks’ new head coach.

Defensive coordinator/assistant coach Mike Harpin with his father, “Vinnie.”

Two wins moves Shrewsbury hockey onto Final 8 COMMUNITY SPORTS

By Bill Gilman Senior Reporter

WESTBOROUGH – The Shrewsbury High School girls hockey team’s quest for a state championship got off to a strong start with wins over Old Rochester

and Pope Francis in the first two rounds of the Division 1 Tournament.

The Colonials (20-2-2) advanced to the Elite 8, where they were scheduled to take on Hingham High (16-5-2) March 8 after the Community Advocate

went to press.

Shrewsbury 2, Pope Francis 0

The Colonials struggled offensively against No. 14 Pope Francis (11-7-2), at North Star Arena on March 4. Despite out-

Soups On Us!

shooting the visitors 30-13, Shrewsbury could manage just a 1-0 lead on a second-period goal by Blaire Fay, with Kealy Fay getting the assist.

It turns out that was more than enough support for goalie Risa Montoya, who made 13 saves to record her 11th shutout of the season.

Thursday, March 23 | 12:00 -

Senior captain Taylor Ryder locked up the victory with an empty-net goal in the final minute.

Shrewsbury 9, Old Rochester 0

The Colonials netted goals from eight different players en route to a 9-0 romp over No. seed 30 Old Rochester in the first round.

Yasmine McKenzie led the way for the Colonials with two goals and an assist.

At that time, Shrewsbury

Coach Frank Panarelli said he realizesthe tournament path will get tougher, but he feels his team’s tough regular season schedule has them prepared.

“The MVC/DCL league that we moved into [last year] is tough. We play 12 league games and they are like 12 playoff games,” he said. “Obviously, the competition is going to get tougher as we keep going deeper, but we’ve got a strong team this year, really deep. Our goaltenders and our defensemen I’d put up against anyone in the state. Our forwards just have to put the puck in the net like they did tonight.”

Old Rochester was simply outclassed by a more experienced and very hungry Shrewsbury squad. The Colonials outshot the Bulldogs 44-7, including 22-2 in the first period.

Dr. Eric Bryan

Above: Shrewsbury goalie Marissa Montoya makes a save in the third period of the Colonials’ 9-0 win over Old Rochester.

Below: Shrewsbury sophomore Blaire Fay works the puck into the Old Rochester zone in the Colonials’ 9-0 win.

PHOTOS/BILL GILMAN

Algonquin ends playoff drought but falls in Sweet 16

By Bill Gilman Senior Reporter

WESTBOROUGH – The Alqonquin Regional boys hockey team accomplished quite a bit in the 2022-23 season, including its first playoff win in five years. But the Titans’ season came to an end Saturday with a heartbreaking 3-2 loss to Wakefield.

Wakefield 3, Algonquin 2

The No. 7 Titans (14-52) struggled out of the gate against No. 10 Wakefield (13-72) and they found themselves down, 1-0, after the first period. Algonquin was finally able to gain some traction in the second period, on the strength of its power play. With their top line held in check throughout the game, the Titans got offense from an unlikely source when Jack Doolan scored just his third goal of the year, on the power play, at 5:26, with an assist from Jack Gulachenski.

With just over a minute to play in the second period, Algonquin tied the game, 2-2, on a goal by Dylan Beard, his fourth of the year. Wyatt Shea and Owen Cacciatore were credited with the assists.

With momentum and a raucous North Star crowd on its side, Algonquin looked poised to pull out a victory. But the Titans were never able to net the go-ahead goal. Instead, Wakefield found a way to beat Titans’ goalie Jack Stiles (22 saves) to claim the upset win and advance to the D2 quarterfinals.

Algonquin 4, Newtown South 0 The Titans beat Newton South 4-0 in the round of 32 March 1.

“This is great. We haven’t been beyond this point for a while,” said Algonquin Regional High School Hockey Coach Greg Cappello. “It’s awesome. We had the opportunity for two home games and now we’re going to play two home games, so you have to be excited.”

Algonquin’s last victory in the postseason came in 2018, a 4-1 win over Auburn in a Division 3 Central Sectional semifinal. The years since have seen Algonquin bounced in the first round three times and one season lost to the pandemic.

Senior Captain Andrew

Two wins moves Shrewsbury hockey into Final 8

Colonials | from page 16

Shrewsbury had some trouble finding the back of the net early on thanks to some spectacular play from Old Rochester goalie Ryann Tripp, who notched 35 saves. But once the Colonials figured out a way to solve Tripp, the floodgates opened.

Leading 1-0 late in the first, Shrewsbury scored three times in a span of 40 seconds and went into the first intermission 4-0.

“We had opportunities, but their goalie played fantastic,” said Panarelli. “It’s nice to see

the team respond like that, to get three quick goals really put the game away a little bit. That was huge. We didn’t want to go into the locker room up just 1-0.”

Shrewsbury pushed its lead to 5-0 midway through the second, when Maddie Mrva scored off a feed from Taylor Ryder (two assists).

With Old Rochester skaters visibly fatigued, Shrewsbury ramped up its attack and turned the game into a rout in the third period. Goals by Lauren Albertson, Riley Manchester, McKenzie and Natalie MacCausland accounted for the final score.

Hodge and junior Nate Gulachenski had two goals each and senior goalie Jack Stiles turned aside all 26 shots he faced to lead the Titans. Sophomore Ben Yosca added three assists.

The Titans were clinging to a 1-0 lead, as the final seconds

of the second period ticked off. Hodge was camped in front of the net, took a feed from behind the goal from Yosca and flicked a shot that clanged off the post. But the puck ricocheted into the back of New South goalie Dylan Zukowski, deflected into the net and

earned the goal with just 1.3 seconds on the clock.

Hodge would score again, just 19 seconds into the third period, giving Algonquin a 3-0 lead and sapping all the fight from the visiting Lions.

Newton South was able to hang close through the first two periods, thanks in large part to a sensational game from Zukowski, who finished with 42 saves.

Stiles was just a little bit better for the Titans.

Newton South’s best scoring chances came on power plans in the first and second periods, when they buzzed the Algonquin zone with almost constant pressure. Stiles made a pad save on Tim Kasyanov and then a gutsy poke check save on Declan Daley to keep the Lions off the board in the first period.

“He was fantastic there, and he’s been that way for us all year long,” said Cappello. “In those big moments, he’s covering it up. He’s taking care of business.”

Algonquin goalie Jack Stiles makes one of his 26 saves.

Algonquin sophomore Dylan Beard fires a shot in the first period.

PHOTOS/BILL GILMAN

Time runs out on Hudson’s postseason run

By Evan Walsh Reporter

HUDSON – In a game featuring many twists and turns, changes of momentum, and impressive play from both squads, the No. 21 Bishop Stang Spartans outlasted the No. 12 Hudson Hawks, winning by a score of 59-55.

With the loss, the Hawks have been eliminated from the MIAA Division 3 tournament.

The game was a tale of two halves. In the first half, Bishop Stang dominated Hudson. The Spartans exploded offensively and maintained a 15-point lead throughout much of the second quarter. At the half, Bishop Stang led 37-22.

Mike Notaro, the Hudson boys basketball head coach, noted that the team “didn’t come out in the first half ready to play.”

“That’s what killed us,” he said. “We’ve got to show up for 32 minutes, not just 16. It’s

Left: Bishop Stang and Hudson players look to grab the rebound.

Right: Mikey Dicarlo dribbles the ball up the court.

as simple as that.”

The Hawks made good use of every minute in the second half to mount a ferocious comeback. Jackson O’Brien’s 14 fourth-quarter points led Hudson to within three points of a Spartan lead that once seemed insurmountable.

Westborough girls basketball falls in round of 32

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

WESTBOROUGH – The Westborough High School girls basketball team’s season has come to an end.

The Rangers fell in the round of 32 of the MIAA Division 2 state championship against Nashoba Regional High School on Friday 33-65.

After the game, WestboroRangers tweeted, “Thanks to this team for a great run. It was an exciting season with so much to be proud of.”

The Rangers (13-8) entered the postseason seeded No. 22 in a division that also includes local teams from Marlborough and Grafton.

While the Marlborough team fell against Notre Dame Hingham, Westborough and Grafton were victorious in the preliminaries. The West-

borough team roared through their round with a 60-45 victory over Agawam High School.

With their victory over Westborough, Nashoba will move onto the Sweet 16 and face off against the winners of Notre Dame Hingham and Dracut High School March 7 after the Community Advocate

The Rangers battled Nashoba in the round of 32. However, Westborough came out on the losing side of a 33-65 score.

goes to press.

While Grafton was still in the running after beating Dighton-Rehoboth in the preliminaries, the Gators’ postseason run came to an end.

Grafton also fell 26-42 in the round of 32 against Wakefield Memorial on March 3. Wakefield moved onto the Sweet 16 against Whitman-Hanson.

Hudson | 19

PHOTO/RENEE THOMPSON

PHOTOS/EVAN WALSH

Time runs out on Hudson’s postseason run

Hudson | from page 18

O’Brien scored 27 total points for the Hawks. Ryan Moreira had 8 points, while Max Person added 7.

Ultimately, while Hudson had the momentum at the end of the game, the team simply lacked the time needed to take the lead.

Bishop Stang repeatedly held off Hudson with a po -

tent offense of their own. Sage Baptiste had 19 points, including 13 in the first quarter, and Daejon Gibson had 17 points.

When it felt like Hudson would finally overcome Bishop Stang, the Spartans were able to create just enough offensive production to carry them through the end of the game.

Aging Gracefully

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

SO MANY WAYS TO MEET

One of the biggest concerns of people transferring to senior living facilities and their families is the potential for isolation and depression. However, modern assisted living communities have a wide variety of opportunities available for social activity and mental stimulation. Not only is it never too late to learn a new skill, but your golden years are also an excellent time to try your hand at painting classes, woodworking classes, and writing workshops. You can check items off your bucket list and make new friends at the same time. For more physical activity, check out dance and fitness classes as well as gardening and tai chi. Some facilities even offer the opportunity to fulfill performance dreams with karaoke night.

Making senior friends and staying socially active is quite easy if you’re willing to venture out and try new things. Start with your local senior center. This is a great way to find senior activities near you. Most centers have a wide range of offerings, including exercise classes, educational programs, and arts and crafts workshops. At NOTRE DAME LONG TERM CARE, we provide skilled nursing care for chronic or acutely ill residents. PH: (508) 852-3011; 559 Plantation Street.

P.S Almost any senior living facility is going to have board games, which are a great way to stimulate the mind while interacting with your neighbors.

Even though Hudson’s season ended with a tough loss, Notaro seemed to look back upon the season fondly.

“The boys came here every day, they put it on the line, [and] they played hard,” he said. “Unfortunately, sometimes things don’t end the way you want them to. Simple as that. I have no regrets with these kids.”

The Great Outdoors

With warmer weather just around the corner, the thoughts of many of us have already turned to spending time outdoors again. The benefits of spending time outdoors are numerous and include, boosting physical and mental health, reducing anxiety and depression, reducing fatigue, and increasing your vitamin D levels. It is known that time outdoors can also decrease stress, heart rate, and muscle tension.

As we get older, many of the health struggles we experience make spending time outdoors something that can have a significant positive impact on our lives. Unfortunately, seniors tend to spend less time outdoors than the rest of the population. This can be due to fear of falling, immobility, balance issues,

Space available for teams, players in softball league

SOUTHBOROUGH – The Southborough Men’s Softball League is getting ready for its new season, which kicks off in May.

The league is open to softball athletes from age 18 to 88. The league has weeknight games at Woodward Elementary School.

There is space available for both new teams and individual players. There will be a league meeting in April.

For more information, email sboromenssoftball@gmail.com.

chronic pain, and lack of accessible areas. These things can make outdoor time difficult for seniors, some of whom will require assistance to enjoy any outside time at all.

It’s very important for us to consider whether all the needs of our loved ones are being met – both physical and mental. Not just whether they are getting by, but what their quality of life is. Are they able to do any of the things that they once enjoyed? Maybe they loved to garden but are physically unable to do so now. Helping them –even with just a small outdoor planter – can have a tremendous impact. If you or a loved one is in need of assistance, Trusted Like Family Home Care has caregivers who can help you or your loved one to get outside again and smell the roses!

“I want to thank you for the compassion, care, and dignity that you provided for my dad during the past year and-a-half. Staff members extended their hearts and hands in whatever way he needed to live each day with dignity.”

This state of the art facility offers 45 Skilled Nursing residences and 22 Assisted Living residences designed for individuals with memory loss. We are driven by a passion for excellence and a sense of family.

Gary Kelley

REALTOR®

508-733-6005

MoveWithGary.com

Gary@MoveWithGary.com

MORE&

Go Local

By Gary Kelley

article, “Moving

I accepted an offer on my townhouse two days after hitting the market…a combination of great marketing and pricing strategy. We purposefully priced the townhouse low generating multiple offers. We didn’t “test the market” with a high price…high prices scare off buyers.

I also used local resources. My colleague acted as the listing agent…. allowing me to focus on the move. Yes, I’m told I was a demanding client…and I take

that to mean I asked more than my fair share of questions.

I wasn’t moving to the moon so didn’t need a rocket. A rocket can be really fast and loud, I prefer being able to drop in locally if there is an issue or concern. There are lots of local money men (and women!) making this happen. It’s about that package…not the rate. You marry the home and date the rate.

My mover was a local guy…. guy with a 16’ truck and a couple helpers. I’ve had moves with

the big national carriers...the ones who dutifully wrap your trash, so it arrives unscathed. These guys made it look easy…. I bought a Peloton bike at the height of Covid, and the delivery was a production…taking a couple hours. The local guy had the bike loaded on the truck in 15 minutes. Did I mention he also does donation/dump runs? Really one stop shopping for moving.

I got my boxes at U-Haul in Northborough. Reasonably affordable, I can return unused ones for money back, and I’ll pass on the used boxes to a client.

My attorney is local. Believe it or not, there are local customs in certain towns around Worcester. Local attorneys know this and seem to enjoy schooling other attorneys.

Yes, I did get some local selfstorage. My climate controlled 10’x10’ is rapidly filling. While it is helping hid some boxes, I’m worried they will still be there

untouched in a decade.

Some things were ridiculously easy to do…. like updating my driver’s license and car registrations. I’m a Notary and my commission was expiring…so it was off to the Commonwealth, appointed by Governor Healy, a trip to Boston followed by a trip to the helpful Northborough Town Clerk.

If you are thinking about moving, please give me a call. Coming close to the end of my own move I have many relevant, practical suggestions. And of course, we can sell your home!

Here is free app for your phone/tablet tied directly to the MLS https://www.homesnap. com/Gary-Kelley

Gary is heard on WCRN AM 830 and/or seen on WMCT-TV and Westborough Community Television discussing “All Things Real Estate.”

If you need advice on selling your home or buying a new one, give us a call 508-733-6005.

Mylast

is a Hassle,” resonated with many. Yes, I have moved, and am surrounded by a zillion unpacked brown boxes. I can’t find a lot of things I need, and Amazon prime makes it too easy to replace/upgrade. The boxes simply multiply when I sleep.

LEGAL NOTICES

PROBATE AND FAMILY LAW

INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE

Docket No. WO23P0433EA

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

The Trial Court Worcester Division

Probate and Family Court

Estate of: Timothy Allen Wright

Also Known As: Timothy A. Wright

Date of Death: October 24, 2022

To all persons interested in the above captioned estate by Petition of Petitioners Meaghan Wright of Salem, MA and Jason Gutu of Boston MA. Meaghan Wright of Salem, MA and Jason Gutu of Boston, MA have 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. MI22P166EA

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

The Trial Court Middlesex Division

Probate and Family Court

Estate of: Duncan R. Power

Date of Death: March 12, 2022

To all persons interested in the above captioned estate by Petition of Petitioner Stephen G. Power of Mattapoisett, MA A Will has been admitted to informal probate. Stephen G. Power of Mattapoisett, 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.

HUDSON

LEGAL NOTICE

Town of Hudson

Public Notice of Hearing

In accordance with the provisions of Section 3.3.16.1 of the Hudson Subdivision Rules and Regulations the Hudson Planning Board will hold a public hearing on whether the Town will vote to accept a layout of for a portion of Forbes Road as a town way as shown on Plan

entitled “Acceptance Plan of a Portion of Forbes Road in Hudson, MA” prepared by Thomas Dipersio, Jr. & Associates, 641 Concord Road, Marlborough, MA 01752, Date: November 30, 2022, Scale: l” = 40.’

The text and plan of this article is on file with the Town Clerk, 78 Main Street, Hudson, MA and the Office of Planning and Community Development and may be inspected during normal business hours upon appointment. For more information, contact the Department of Planning and Community Development at (978) 5622989 or via email at kjohnson@townofhudson.org

Community Advocate March 10, 2023 and March 17, 2023

A Public Hearing will be held on said petition at 78 Main Street Hudson, MA, 2nd floor meeting room at Hudson Town Hall, 78 Main Street, Hudson, MA at 7:00 PM, April 4, 2023

Planning Board Chair

Robert D’Amelio

LEGAL NOTICE

Town of Hudson

Public Notice of Hearing

In accordance with the provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 40A, Section 5, the Hudson Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, April 4, 2023, at 7 PM in the 2ndfloor auditorium at 78 Main Street, Hudson, MA on whether the Town will vote to amend the Protective Zoning By-Laws 2.0 DEFINITIONS to add the following:

Cold Storage Warehouse (LUC-157): Temperature-controlled building for frozen food or other perishable products, not a Parcel Hub or Distribution Center.

Parcel Hub (LUC-156): A building with a net floor area larger than 40,000 square feet used as a regional and local freight-forwarder facility with limited or no breakbulk, repack, or assembly activities.

Fulfillment Center (LUC-155): An establishment with a building net floor area larger than 40,000 square feet used primarily for the receiving, short-term enclosed storage, repackaging, and/or reshipping or distribution of goods and materials to retail stores and other market outlets, or directly to the consumer via telephone or Internet remote sales. including office, administrative, and support facilities related to the foregoing.

Transload Warehouse (LUC-154): A building used for consolidation and distribution of pallet toads of manufacturers, wholesalers, or retailers with little storage duration, not a Parcel Hub or Distribution Center. Standard Warehouse (LUC-150): A building used primarily for the enclosed storage of goods and materials for extended periods, not a Parcel Hub or Distribution Center.

Warehouse Crossdocking Types:

Full pallet load operation: Pallet loads are rerouted into outgoing trucks having different destinations. Products move directly from one truck to another.

Case-load order makeup: Merchandise sorted and marked by stock-keeping units (SKUs). Pallet loads broken customer orders, re-palletized to outbound vehicles.

Hybrid cross-docking in storage is blended with incoming materials. Palletized orders are routed to outbound trucks. Some goods routed are to temporary storage.

Opportunistic cross-docking products are cross-docked directly upon receipt or combined with items from storage.

Truck consolidation: Products consolidated to complete customer orders, combined and sorted for shipment within 24 to 48 hours.

Short-term storage: Seasonal or bulky items stored are temporary until just before shipment.

Or take any other action relative thereto.

The text and plan of this article is on file with the Town Clerk, 78 Main Street, Hudson, MA, and the Office of Planning and Community Development and may be inspected during normal business hours upon appointment. For more information, contact the Department of Planning and Community Development at (978) 562-2989 or via email at kjohnson@townofhudson.org

Community Advocate March 10, 2023, and March 17, 2023

A Public Hearing will be held on said petition at 78 Main Street Hudson, MA, 2nd-floor meeting room at Hudson Town Hall, 78 Main Street, Hudson, MA at 7:00 PM, April 4, 2023

Planning Board Chair

Robert D’Amelio

MARLBOROUGH

PUBLIC HEARING –SPECIAL PERMIT

Applicant: Trombetta Family Limited Partnership Locus: 655 Farm Road Map 85, Parcel(s) 10 & 12

Notice is given that the City Council of the City of Marlborough will hold a PUBLIC HEARING on Monday, March 27, 2023, at 8:00 PM in City Council Chambers, 2nd floor City Hall, 140 Main Street, Marlborough, Massachusetts, on the Application for a Special Permit from Connorstone Engineering, on behalf of Trombetta Family Limited Partnership, to allow the use of an existing Contractor/Landscape Contractor Yard within the LI district to be located at 655 Farm Road.

The application materials and plans are available for viewing in the Office of the City Clerk, City Hall, 140 Main Street, Marlborough, MA 01752, Telephone 508-460-3775. In addition, the plans and application will be available online at www.marlborough-ma. gov/city-council under Public Hearing Notices.

Per Order of the City Council #23-1008824

SHREWSBURY

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

nish a 100 percent Performance Bond and a 100 percent Labor and Materials Bond.

EMPLOYMENT AND WAGE REQUIREMENTS.

Attention is called to minimum wage rates to be paid on the work as determined by the Division of Occupational Safety under the provisions of Mass. G.L.C. 149, section 26 to 27H inclusive. Contractor is to be aware of hiring preferences for veterans and residents and the requirement for worker’s compensation coverage. All such requirements are set forth in Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 149, Sections 26 to 37.

The Contractor shall submit certified weekly payrolls in a form suitable to the Town and the Office of the Attorney General pursuant to an advisory dated April 8, 1994 from the Office of the Attorney General, a copy of which may be obtained in the Office of the Town Manager acting as Chief Procurement Officer of the Town of Shrewsbury.

The Contractor shall furnish labor in harmony with all other elements of labor employed in the work and that all employees employed on the worksite, or in the work subject to this bid, must successfully have completed at least ten hours of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) approved training (Chapter 306 of the acts of 2004).

Along with certificate of insurance, evidence of OSHA training certificate is also required to be submitted at that time as well as with the first certified payroll.

All bids for this project are subject to the provisions of Mass. G.L. (Ter. Ed.) C 30, Section 39M (a), as amended.

Bidders on this work will be required to comply with the President’s Executive Order No. 11246 (Affirmative Action to Ensure Equal Employment Opportunity) and any amendments or supplements thereto.

Bidders on this work will be required to comply with the rules and regulations of the Architectural Access Board (521 CMR 1.00 et. Seq.)

Price adjustments in accordance with MassDOT provisions shall apply to Liquid Asphalt, Diesel Fuel & Gasoline, Portland Cement & Steel. Current prices are posted monthly on the MassDOT website at WWW.MHD.STATE. MA.US/.

The Town reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, and waive informalities in the bidding procedure, or to accept the proposal deemed best for the Town.

CIRCLE FULL DEPTH RECONSTRUCTION MARCH 2023

Sealed bids or proposals will be received at the office of the Town Manager in The Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, until 11:00 a.m. local time on Wednesday, March 23, 2023 for the replacement of approximately 3,250 linear feet of roadway including new berm curbing, wheel chair ramps, and structure adjustments.

The proposal forms, incorporated with the plans and specifications for the work involved, can be downloaded from the Towns Website https://shrewsburyma.gov/bids

All bids must meet the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Public Works Standard Specifications for Highways, Bridges and Waterways (1988).

MassDOT prequalification of contractors with the class of work as, HIGHWAY CONSTRUCTION for the project with an estimated value of $509,279.83 will be required. Contractors may be pre-qualified at the Massachusetts Department of Public Works, Room 7552, 10 Park Plaza, Boston, Massachusetts 02116.

A proposal guarantee in an amount equal to five (5) percent of the bid amount in the form of cash, or bid bond, or certified check, or a treasurer’s or cashier’s check issued by a responsible banking institution payable to the Town of Shrewsbury shall be required with each bid and be enclosed with the proposal; this guarantee to become the property of the Town of Shrewsbury if the bidder fails to execute the contract and satisfactory bond within ten (10) days after the contract may have been awarded to them.

The successful bidder will be required to fur-

A public hearing will be held on the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, March 21, 2023, in the Selectman’s Room at Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.

SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION

John Ostrosky, Chairman

NOTICE OF HEARINGG.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40

Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, that Michael Clemmey, 111 Morse Street, MA, 02062 has filed a Notice of Intent for the construction of an automobile dealership with associated grading, site work, retaining walls and stormwater mitigation at 701 Boston Turnpike. A public hearing will be held on the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, March 21, 2023, in the Selectman’s Room at Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.

SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION

John Ostrosky, Chairman

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY

ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

PUBLIC HEARINGS

RICHARD D. CARNEY MUNICIPAL OFFICE BUILDING

100 MAPLE AVENUE SHREWSBURY, MA

March 27, 2023

6:30 PM

To hear the appeal of Rosa Soto, 10 Pond Ave, Shrewsbury MA for Special Permit to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section IV to construct an addition and deck with a nonconforming front yard setback on a pre-existing nonconforming dwelling upon property located at 10 Pond Avenue in the Residence B-2 district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 13 Plot 260000.

March 27, 2023

6:30 PM

The bidder shall start the work under this contract within seven (7) calendar days after its acceptance by the Town Manager.

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY

Kevin Mizikar Town Manager

NOTICE OF HEARINGG.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40

Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, that Keith Senior, 136 South Quinsigamond Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA, has filed a Notice of Intent for the replacement of a deck, with grading and associated site work at 136 South Quinsigamond Avenue.

A public hearing will be held on the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, March 21, 2023, in the Selectman’s Room at Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.

SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION

John Ostrosky, Chairman

NOTICE OF HEARINGG.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40

Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, that Mary J. Holland, 8132 Flint Pond Crossing Circle, Shrewsbury, MA, has filed a Notice of Intent to raze and rebuild a single-family home with associated site work and installation of a retaining wall at 332 South Quinsigamond Avenue.

To hear the appeal of Patrick Byrne, 1092 Main Street, Boylston MA for Variance to the Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw Section VII- Table II to construct a deck with a nonconforming rear yard setback upon property located at 37 Old Brook Road in the Residence B-1 district. The subject premise is described on the Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 28 Plot 236011.

Peter C. Mulcahy, Clerk

NOTICE OF HEARINGG.L. CHAPTER 131, S. 40

Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of General Laws, Chapter 131, s. 40, that Daniel Rowley for the Town of Shrewsbury, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA, has filed a Request for Determination of Applicability for the clearing of brush and small trees at 45 Main Street.

A public hearing will be held on the above notice at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday Evening, March 21, 2023, in the Selectman’s Room at Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.

SHREWSBURY CONSERVATION COMMISSION

John Ostrosky, Chairman Scan QR code for rate information or to email your legal notice.

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY, MASSACHUSETTS FOR BOYLSTON

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

Arnold, Keith of Grafton

Atchue, Marshall of Grafton

Beall, James of Shrewsbury

Cabral, Maria of Hudson

Caissie, Jeannine of Ft. Myers

Beach, FLA

Cherkowski, Pat formerly of Hudson

Devine, Donald formerly of Shrewsbury

Galipeau, Jeannette of Westborough

Gauthier, Theresa formerly of Shrewsbury

Leahey, Janet of Marlborough

Malboeuf, Gail of Grafton

Milliken, Lynda of Marlborough

Minasian, Margaret of Westborough

Najarian, Oscar of Westborough

Noyst, Beth of Westborough

Sales, Luis of Marlborough

Stines, Joseph of Grafton

Sweeney, Richard of Northborough

Vandal, Norman of Shrewsbury

White, Kathryn of Hudson

Zaffrann, Sara of Shrewsbury

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

Jeannine P. Caissie, 89

FT. MYERS BEACH, FLA -

Jeannine P. Doucett Caissie, 89, of Ft. Myers Beach, Florida (formerly of Marlborough, MA) passed away January 21, 2023.

She was born April 1, 1933, in Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada to the late Edgar Doucett and Melina Bourque Doucett Anderson. After moving to the states, she married the love of her life, Paul. They celebrated 63 loving years together as husband and wife before his passing in May 2019. Jeannine was a devoted and loving mother, raising four children, David, James, Bruce, and Paula. She worked for many

years in the Marlborough, Ma school system. Before and after her and her husband’s retirement, they spent many summers in N. Sedgewick, Maine. During retirement in Florida, living at Bayside Estates, she enjoyed singing in the church choir, painting, traveling, playing dominoes, being part of the Kookie Band and Red Hat Club. She especially enjoyed lots of time with her friends and family.

Jeannine leaves behind her beloved children David (Lee), James, Bruce (Marsha); her grandchildren Jason (Grace), Jennifer (Carson), Christopher, Shawn, and Joshua; great grandchildren Atlantis and Amelia. She also leaves behind her sisters Beverley (Bill) Matarese and Elaine Mahony; sister-in-law Roseanna, brothers-in law Leo (Jeannine), Ed (Mary) Duvall and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her husband Paul (2019), daughter Paula Babineau (2011), sister Edwina Barsano (2018).

Janet A. Leahey, 76

MARLBOROUGH - Janet “Jan” A. (Devoe) Leahey 76 of Marlborough died peacefully surrounded by family on Wednesday, February 22, 2023 at UMass Memorial Healthcare in Worcester after a lengthy illness.

Jan was born in Newton, MA, the daughter of the late Raymond V. Devoe Sr. and Dorothy “Dot” (Dobens). She graduated from Algonquin High School and earned her Associates Degree from Northeastern University.

Jan was predeceased by her husband of 29 years, Paul M. Leahey in 2007.

Jan is survived by her daughter, Erin L. Sees and her husband Dan of N. Attleboro, 5 beloved grandchildren, Megan McLaughlin, Trent Demers, Braden Sees, Tyler Sees, Conor Sees, 1 great grandson, Steven, a sister, Nancy Boone and her husband Jeffrey Moore of Clinton, a brother, Paul E. Devoe Sr. and his wife Becky of Leominster and many nieces and nephews. In addition to

her husband, Jan was predeceased by her daughter Joanne McLaughlin in 2017, a sister Jacquelyn M. Woods and a brother Raymond V. Devoe Jr.

The Short & Rowe Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.

Pat A. Cherkowski, 81

BUZZARDS BAY, MA/TARPON SPRINGS, FLA - Pat Ann Cherkowski passed away on February 16, 2023, at the age of 81. She was born on April 21, 1941, in Boston, Massachusetts, to Dennis Bertini and Anna Martignetti.

Pat was raised in Cambridge, MA, where she attended Cambridge Latin High School, excelling in her studies and serving as the president of her senior class and a member of the National Honors Society.

After marrying, Pat moved to Hudson, MA, where she raised her children and was an active member of her community. She was the proud founder and president of the Hudson Girls Club and volunteered in numerous other organizations.

In the 1980s, Pat attended Bentley College and received a bachelor’s degree in accounting. In 1985, she married the love of her life, John Cherkowski. They split their time between Buzzards Bay, MA, and Tarpon Springs, FL, and shared many happy years together. Pat had a successful career in commercial sales and real estate investing, but it was her entrepreneurial spirit that led her to open three Bath Fitter franchises in the Clearwater, FL area with her husband in 1990. Together, they ran the business until her retirement several years later.

In her early retirement, Pat enjoyed traveling extensively throughout Europe, the United States, and Canada, always eager to experience new cultures and meet new people. She was an avid runner, gardener, gymgoer, and walker, always seeking to stay active and healthy.

Pat had a great passion for music, which she indulged in by attending countless con -

certs throughout her life. Her love for literature was equally strong, as she actively participated in book clubs and was known to be a voracious reader.

Pat was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, and her family was her greatest source of joy. Known affectionately as Nona to her grandchildren, she treasured the time she spent with them. Her unwavering love and support provided the inspiration for her grandchildren to become their best selves. Her kindness, generosity, and positive attitude touched the lives of everyone she met.

Pat is survived by her husband John, her children Mark Kosinski and his wife Kristin, Joanne Bilancieri and her husband George Arsenalt, Jody Smith and her husband Jason, her grandchildren Josh, Ryan, Callan, and Stowe Kosinski, Adam Bilancieri, Ashlen Smith, Jennifer Carrier, and Kevin Peck, 6 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild. She was predeceased by her parents and sister-in-law Regina Cherkowski.

Marshall W. Atchue, 95

GRAFTON - Marshall (“Whitey”) W. Atchue of Grafton passed away on February 23, 2 days before his 95th birthday. He leaves his wife of 67 years, Marilyn (“Peg”) (Mainville) Atchue.

He also leaves a daughter, Sally Atchue and her partner Don Clark of Adams Center, NY, his son Mark and his wife Nancy of Grafton, his grandchildren, Jonathan Atchue and his fiancé Shannon Chambers of Millbury and Katherine Atchue of Shrewsbury. He also leaves his sister, Theresa, and her husband John Arnold of The Villages Florida, his brother, Joseph Atchue of Grafton, his sisters-in-law Marion Aikey of Rentz Ga., Jeanne Noyes of Cape Neddick Me., Vicki Vandersluis of Uxbridge, and Alice Atchue of Grafton and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brothers Philip and Milton (“Doc”)

Atchue.

The Roney Funeral Home of North Grafton assisted with arrangements.

Gail Malboeuf, 87

GRAFTON - Gail (Russek) Malboeuf, 87, passed away February 20, 2023 at UMass Memorial in Worcester following an illness. Gail was born August 10, 1935 in Worcester and her roots were in Shrewsbury.

She leaves her husband of 65 years, Donald Malboeuf, her children Scott Malboeuf and his wife Deborah, Stephen Malbouef and his wife Patti and Sally (Malboeuf) Hogan and Billy Gray, her grandchildren Nicole, Danielle, Kayla, Jesse, Brett, Ben, Cameron and Mackenzie and 3 great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her sister Nancy Welcome. The Roney Funeral Home of North Grafton assisted with arrangements.

Norman H. Vandal, 96

SHREWSBURY - Norman H. “Norm” Vandal, 96, of Shrewsbury, passed away peacefully on the morning of February 27, 2023 at Shrewsbury

Nursing

Home. He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 55 years, Ann M. (Pescaro) Vandal, in 2007.

Norm is survived by his children, Robert Vandal and his wife Lori, of Auburn, and Marianne Boudreau and her husband Bob, of Shrewsbury; his grandchildren, Casey, Cameron, and Caitlin Boudreau, all of Shrewsbury; as well as several nieces and nephews. He was also predeceased by his siblings, Theresa Welch, Lucille Richardson, Joan Jones, and Hector Vandal, Jr.; and their parents, Hector Vandal, Sr. and Ledora (DeCoteau) Vandal.

The Britton-Shrewsbury Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.

POLICE FIRE&

Marlborough police seek identity of men related to stolen credit card

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

MARLBOROUGH – The Marlborough Police Department is seeking the public’s help identifying two suspects.

According to the department, police want to identify the men in regards to a theft with a stolen credit card.

The department shared a photo of the suspects dated Jan. 26 pushing a shopping cart. One of the men has dark hair and is wearing a gray Nike hoodie and jeans, and the second male suspect is in a black coat, reflective vest and hard hat.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the department at 508-485-1212.

Anyone with information regarding these suspects is urged to contact police.

Men charged by Shrewsbury police following used cooking oil theft

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

SHREWSBURY – Two men face charges after they allegedly stole used cooking oil from a Shrewsbury business.

Shrewsbury police have charged Gregorix Jimenez Cruz, 24, of Yonkers, New York, and Jefry Reyes Castillo, 23, of Yonkers, New York, with felony larceny over $1,200, felony breaking and entering a building during daytime and felony vandalizing property.

According to the statement of facts filed in Westborough District Court againstCruz, Shrewsbury police responded to the 300 block of Maple Av-

enue at 8:53 a.m. Feb. 16.

Police were told that there was a larceny of used cooking oil in progress. The caller reportedly saw on camera that there were two men in a van breaking into the used oil container.

The caller told police that the men used a tool to pry the lock open, which they damaged and discarded to gain access.

After the caller told officers that the van left, an officer saw the van drive through the intersection of Route 9 and Lake Street.

“I immediately recognized the van from previous reports at the same location,” police

wrote in court documents.

Police pulled the van over near the intersection of Route 9 and Madison Place. The officer wrote that the two occupants — Cruz and Castillo — were dressed in black and “covered in cooking oil residue.”

In the van, police allegedly located “large containers” of cooking oil, hoses and other tools.

The pair were arraigned in Westborough District Court on Feb. 16. The judge set bail for Cruz at $2,500 surety bond or $250 cash. Castillo was released on his own recognizance.

They will return to court on April 13.

Southborough police respond to break-ins at businesses

to the department, the breakins happened at businesses in the area of Route 9 and Crystal Pond Road.

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

SOUTHBOROUGH – After responding to break-ins at two businesses, the Southborough Police Department is seeking the public’s help identifying a suspect.

The suspect was reportedly involved in two commercial break-ins on Feb. 25 between 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. According

“Several items were taken from inside the businesses,” police wrote.

The suspect reportedly tried to enter other businesses between the two locations but wasn’t successful.

Police describe the suspect as a white male with facial hair. He was wearing black clothes, a black mask and glasses and had either a gray and black or navy camouflage backpack at

the time of the incidents.

Anyone who recognizes the suspect should contact Det. Steve Neivert or Keith Nichols at 508-485-2121.

Scan

PHOTO/MARLBOROUGH POLICE DEPARTMENT

Southborough police are seeking help identifying this suspect in break-ins at businesses.

PHOTO/SOUTHBOROUGH POLICE DEPT

MEDIA

PRAYER PETS

A Powerful Prayer to the Holy SpiritHoly Spirit you who solve all problems who light all roads so I can attain my goals, you who give me the divine gifts to forgive and forget all evil against me, in this short prayer to thank you for all things and confirm once again that I never want to be separated from you, even in spite of all material illusions. I wish you in eternal glory, thank you for your mercy towards me and mine. The person must say this prayer for three consecutive days. After three days the favor requested will be granted, even if it may appear difficult. This prayer must be published immediately after the favor is granted without mentioning the favor. Only your initials shall appear on the bottom. ~ F.R.

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Part-Time Bookkeeper

The Hallowell Center Sudbury is looking for a part-time bookkeeper to help with managing revenue, preparing bank deposits, and creating financial statements. Interested candidates should send resumes to ellen@hallowellcenter.org.

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Role supports all office and administrative tasks associated with GSLC’s ministry.

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Resp for accurate/timely finan data entry. Create effic internal controls, adhere to accounting & company policies. Resp for collections, receivables, & payroll. Prep quarterly fed & state tax filings. Train junior accounting staff. Reqs MS degr in Accounting Business Admin; 12 mos exper in accounting.

Mail res & cvl to: Attn: Resume/Accountant, Chaves Heating & Air Conditioning, 15 Bonazzoli Ave., Hudson, MA 01749.

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By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – On March 1, while local school bus drivers held an information picket outside, representatives from their employer, NRT Transportation, met with the School Committee inside the Forbes Municipal Building.

School Committee Chair Lisa Edinberg acknowledged the picket, which drivers and their supporters have said is over stalled contract negotiations between NRT and Teamsters Local 70. She made it clear that the drivers work for NRT, not for the schools, and Westborough Public Schools (WPS) can play

no part in the negotiations.

“NRT is contracted by WPS to provide bus transportation services. While we are close partners, the drivers work for NRT, not WPS. As such, WPS has no role — and cannot interfere or intervene — in any contract negotiations between NRT and its employees,” said Edinberg in a statement. “Yet we do wish a positive outcome for our drivers.

“This comes at a time when we have concerns about whether the current level of service we are receiving is consistent with the requirements of our own contract with NRT,” said Edinberg. “To be clear, those concerns are not based in any way

on the performance of Westborough drivers. The purpose of having NRT in attendance this evening is to address our concerns to NRT and to state our expectation that the level of service meet the level that is set out in our contract.”

‘We never get to know whether we’ve got a bus or not’ Westborough Public Schools is in the third year of a five-year contract with NRT.

The School Committee brought NRT to the meeting to discuss several issues, including a lack of drivers and buses running late.

NRT representatives Peter

Delani and David Lathbury discussed transportation provided to special education students and athletes, and addressed the ongoing driver shortage.

Delani, the vice president of customer relations, presented the service record for transporting Westborough High School’s winter athletes. He said that out of 68 trips chartered, 67 were completed. The one cancellation came from subzero conditions on the morning of Feb. 4, when the bus wouldn’t start.

Superintendent Amber Bock replied that she wanted the service record for fall sports. She said there were instances

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where students were forced to wait for buses.

“Not getting there isn’t O.K.,” she said.

The committee’s student representative, Aratrika Ghosh, who is a member of the WHS swim team, also had concerns about the bus service.

“We never get to know whether we’ve got a bus or not,” she said.

Ghosh added that later start times were not an option for many student-athletes because they need to do their homework after practices or games.

As to the driver shortage, which is nationwide, Delani said the company has been aggressively recruiting. NRT recently hired English as a second language instructors for driver candidates whose first language is not English.

“It’s a challenging environment,” he said.

‘You overbid and over-contracted’

Bock then brought up the issue of NRT itself, which had been bought out by another company, Beacon Mobility.

“You have contracts you’re not able to fulfill,” she said. “We are not in charge of solving these issues, you are.”

“You overbid and over-contracted,” said Edinberg.

Both Bock and Edinberg demanded an improvement in communications between NRT and the schools. They said service declined shortly after one of NRT’s employees, who knew Westborough, was promoted to another position.

“It went downhill very, very fast,” said Edinberg. “We want this fixed.”

“We need better communications,” said Bock. “This is under your control.”

NRT promised weekly meetings with the schools.

Should service not improve, WPS may consider pulling out the contract and seek a new transportation vendor.

“WPS appreciates the professionalism of our bus and van drivers and the care taken to safely transport our students. In fact, we hear from drivers how much they love our students, and from parents and students how much they love their drivers,” said Edinberg.

Sixth-graders’ recipe featured at local pizza parlor

the menu and get a chance to taste the finished product.

“There were a bunch of the [Sherwood] kids over there. I’m

not sure if they all got the Magnificent Mushroom Madness, but they were excited to see it on the menu,” said Celata.

Runners-up in the pizza project were the “Meat-a-Licious” by 6 Pink and “The Slicer” by 6 Green.

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By Bill Gilman Senior Reporter

SHREWSBURY – Diners looking to satisfy their pizza cravings at the Shrewsbury Pizzeria found a new item on the menu during the month of February — “Magnificent Mushroom Madness.”

But this delectable pizza creation didn’t emerge from the mind of the restaurant’s professional pizza chefs. This masterpiece was the creation of a team of sixth-graders at Shrewsbury’s Sherwood Middle School.

Hansi Inavolu, Shreya Holla, Nethra Vignesh, representing 6 Lime, were chosen as the winners of Sherwood’s annual sixth grade pizza project. In what has quickly become a beloved tradition at the school, the approximately 150 students of the sixth grade’s pink, lime and green sections split up into teams of 3-5 and invent an original pizza creation.

This is no whimsical endeavor. The project takes several weeks and involves multiple facets.

“The students have to do research, reading articles on running a business, cost of ingredients, unit price, etc.,” said Abigayle Celata, a math and science teacher at Sherwood. “Once they have their recipe completed, they have to create a brochure and a commercial to market their pizza. Each component takes quite a bit of time and effort.”

The recipe for the winning pizza includes dough, sauce, cheese, green bell peppers, garlic and a generous helping of mushrooms.

The students create their pizzas though they aren’t able to actually cook them.

The judge for the contest is Brooke Lawson, a professional chef and the sister of Sherwood teacher Jacqui Lawson. Brooke Lawson chooses a winning pizza from each of the three sections then chooses an overall grand prize winner.

Unlike in past years, when the teams were battling solely for pride and school bragging rights, this year there was an added incentive — a spot on the menu of a local restaurant.

“Sherwood has done this project for a few years and Brooke Lawson has always come in to do the judging, but this is the first time we have involved a local restaurant,” said Celata. “It was an idea that was brought up and I think it got the kids excited. It added some competitive energy.”

Shrewsbury school district officials reached out to a few local pizza parlors and were able to strike an agreement with Shrewsbury Pizzeria, 560 Main St., which agreed to add the winning recipe to its menu for the month of February.

Earlier this month, Hansi, Shreya and Nethra headed over to Shrewsbury Pizzeria after a half-day at school and were thrilled to see their creation on

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Judge Chef Brooke Lawson selected “Magnificent Mushroom Madness,” created by Hansi Inavolu, Shreya Holla and Nethra Vignesh as the winner of the annual Sherwood Middle School Pizza Project.

“ I think it got the kids excited. It added some competitive energy.

Abigayle Celata Teacher