CA 230324

Planning Board approves over-55 development for Greenbriar Drive

By Bill Gilman Senior Reporter

SHREWSBURY – Developers of a proposed over-55 housing development near the intersection of Greenbriar Drive and Cypress Avenue have cleared a major hurdle but not without a significant concession.

At a March 16 special meeting, the Planning Board voted to grant site plan approval and a special permit to Cypress Avenue Development Partners LLC for its project at 1 Greenbriar Drive. The votes were 4-0 on each motion, with board member Stephan Rodolakis not in attendance.

The newest version of the plans for the project calls for 48 units, which will be made up of a combination of single units and duplexes. When first proposed a year ago, the plans called for 66 units. That was then cut to 60 over the summer.

Facing continued opposition from the board, the developers scaled back the project to 53 units. But at its Feb. 2 meeting, members of the Planning Board stood united in their opposition, calling for further unit reduction. Cutting the project to 48 units was enough to win board approval.

“Where units were duplexes, we changed duplexes down to individual units, which allowed us to separate the units a little more and make [the development] less dense than what it was,” said John Grenier, principal at J.M. Grenier Associates, the Shrewsburybased engineering firm working with the developers.

The new iteration of the project also elimi-

Colonials victorious

BOSTON – After punching their ticket to the MIAA Division 1 state championship for the first time, the Shrewsbury High School girls hockey team emerged victorious.

The Colonials, who were the No. 3 seed in the division, faced off against No. 1 seed St. Mary’s High of Lynn at TD Garden on March 19.

Ultimately, Shrewsbury beat the Spartans 4-1.

“Words can’t describe how I feel right now, I’m so proud of these girls,” said Coach Frank Panarelli. “I knew we had the team to do it this year. I kept telling them to buy in, work hard in practice, that’s why, in the third period, I think it showed we were in better shape than them. I’m just so proud of these girls, I don’t know where to start.”

Read more coverage on Page 15.

Regional School Committee approves $7.9M for Algonquin athletics complex project

By Evan Walsh Reporter

NORTHBOROUGH – The Regional School Committee unanimously voted March 15 to allocate $7,960,393 toward renovating and remodeling Algonquin Regional High School’s

athletic facilities.

For years, the athletic complex has been in desperate need of extensive renovation. While the operational budget includes yearly maintenance to keep the facilities usable, they are currently well beyond their useful life, according to district officials.

Shrewsbury senior Maddie Mrva, left, celebrates her third-period goal. The Colonials became state champions after beating St. Mary’s in the finals.

COMMUNITY VIEWPOINT

Iwritein full support of the efforts underway to transform the existing Beal School property into a new opportunity to revitalize the center of town.

My family and I have been fortunate to call Shrewsbury home and have enjoyed the quality of life afforded us as residents of nearby Colton Lane. Our children attended Beal, and I regularly run past the Veterans’ Monument in front of the school and think about those in the community who sacrificed for us. We enjoy walking over to Amici’s to pick up a pizza or enjoy a beverage. And, of course, the Town Common is a regular gathering place for neighbors. With the library located there as well, we feel fortunate to live within walking distance of all these venues!

letters to the editor

Unfortunately, over many years we have watched busi-

nesses and storefronts on Maple Avenue and Main Street become abandoned and fall into disrepair. It is disappointing and disheartening to walk by empty buildings and weed strewn lots. We can do better, and the proposed Beal redevelopment gives me hope and can be the catalyst for positive economic stimulus and growth on Maple Avenue and Main Street. This community needs a special project, like what has been proposed for the Beal parcel, to create opportunities in the Town Center. It is exactly what is needed to bring life and economic and civic activity into the area. Yes, we have to be mindful about parking, traffic and the number of units; and I trust this planning process which continues to be fair, thoughtful, and transparent. There are some who prefer that Shrewsbury not move forward or that we just leave things the way they are. I’d just ask those folks to wander about the town center and ask themselves if empty store -

fronts and neglected buildings are acceptable. We can do better. We can improve the town center, and the proposed Beal redevelopment is a practical, creative, and much needed boost to the entire community, especially the town center. Let’s get going.

Sincerely,

Daniel E. Gutekanst Shrewsbury

To the Editor:

On Wednesday, March 15, 2023, the NorthboroughSouthborough Regional School Committee voted unanimously (9-0, 1 absent) to appropriate $7,960,393 to renovate the athletic facilities at Algonquin Regional High School. The next step in this process is for Southborough Town Meeting to vote on whether to approve its $2,998,680 share of that amount, followed by Northborough in April.

The “Gonkplex” project in-

cludes the most significant upgrades to ARHS since the school itself was renovated in 2004.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance is a theme throughout the project. The new seating will include revised parking, new ramps, companion seats, and an elevator to the new ADA-compliant press box. Upgrades to the amenities building will make it ADA-compliant while adding significant restroom capacity. This project is long overdue, as our current facilities are well past their life expectancy.

As for the cost, this is the first capital project for which the Regional School Committee has requested funding since the 2004 building renovation. And the administration has done its due diligence in finding effective ways to fund the project, by issuing a 15-year bond that plays out as follows:

• Fiscal 2024: No tax impact

• Fiscal 2025-26: Bond anticipation notes begin, requiring interest-only payments

— $28/average household

for 2025 and $55/average household for 2026.

• Fiscal 2027: Principal and interest begins for project — tax impact $87 per year.

The $60 million bond for the 2004 ARHS building renovation matures in 2027. That will create a year of overlap between the two projects (2027). For that year, the expected tax impact of both projects combined is $196. After that, taxpayers will pay only for the athletic project and its average $87 per year tab.

We humbly request you plan to attend Town Meeting at 1 p.m. on March 25, 2023, at Trottier School and vote to support these much-needed upgrades. If approved by both towns, the new facility should be ready for the fall 2023 season.

For more information, visit www.gonkplex.org.

Thank you, Paul Desmond, member, Northborough-Southborough Regional School Com-

BOLTON BOYLSTON CLINTON SHREWSBURY STERLING WEST BOYLSTON

(Annual Percentage Yield) is for promotional rate CD. Rate effective 3/25/2023. New money only. The APY assumes interest remains on deposit until maturity. A withdrawal will reduce earnings. Minimum deposit of $1,000.00 required

COMMUNITY VIEWPOINT

mittee and Southborough Co-chair, Algonquin Athletic Complex Committee

David Roman, Northborough Co-chair, Algonquin Athletic Complex Committee

To the Editor, I have always been pro-development. I am a firm believer that if you own the land and your plan is zoning compatible, you should be able to do with your land as you see fit. I also believe you should keep your stuff in your own property.

To that end I would like to state my objection to the apartment complex being proposed at the old Rowe Funeral Home by JW Capital Partners. It’s not the apartments I object to. It’s the lack of parking for the tenants and customers of the retail and restaurants. Their plan seems to be ‘If we give the city enough money they will figure it out’. Any renumeration to alleviate the developer from their obligation to their tenants and the city would be short sighted.

I’m sure there are some who would argue that there

are plenty of houses and apartments in the city that don’t have enough, or any, parking. Those buildings were built in a different time. The need for transportation is different now and should be treated as such. If the city had public transportation, the necessity for parking would be different, but we don’t. The spaces the developers seek for their tenants are public spaces used by existing businesses and tenants. If these spaces become the permanent parking for one development, then the businesses downtown will suffer. Additionally, the many events the city puts on downtown during the summer and fall will be negatively impacted if there is not adequate parking for attendees. This is not the only apartment complex being built downtown. Where is everyone going to park?

I encourage the developer to build their apartment complex and I wish them luck. I hope they find another restaurant to fill the first floor and look forward to eating there. However, I hope they reconsider their parking dilemma

and figure out a way to keep their toys on their own property. I also encourage our city councilors to vociferously oppose this current iteration and not cave to their bribery.

Thank you,

Steven Judd Marlborough

Proposed Stormwater Enterprise Just Doesn’t Hold Water

While many would agree it’s important for Westborough to maintain its stormwater infrastructure, the creation of an Enterprise Fund, to be discussed at the March 25, 2023, Town Meeting, should be of great concern to many residents, especially for our senior citizens on fixed incomes.

This separate ”Authority” is proposed to be incorporated within the Department of Public Works. It would have the power, under the purview of the Select Board, to set its own annual fee schedule, separate and in addition to the tax bill. This Enterprising of the Storm Water System would result in

The Community Advocate’s Policy on Letters to the Editor All letters should be 350 words or less. Letters should be emailed to news@communityadvocate.com and managingeditor@communityadvocate.com or mailed to Managing Editor, Community Advocate, 32 South St. Westborough MA 01581. Letters must have the name, address and phone number of the person submitting it (only name and town will be printed.) Letters will be reviewed and printed at the discretion of the Editor as they are deemed suitable and as space allows. Letters that contain personal attacks will not be printed. Opinions expressed in the letters to the editor do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Community Advocate or its advertisers.

an annual assessment for every taxpayer in addition to what is currently billed for in real estate taxes.

Although the town proposes to transfer the existing budget to the Enterprise, that amount is $87,000. The town’s Website also shows some of the work needed to be funded by this new Enterprise. It’s difficult to believe that this relatively small amount can cover much of the cost for the maintenance of the Storm Water System.

Last November, the town voted to approve funding the Community Preservation Act (CPA), which raises money from Westborough taxpayers with a surcharge on their property tax bill.

Now, we are being asked to support the establishment of a separate Enterprise for the purpose of funding the Storm Water Maintenance System. Both are a way for the town to avoid the restrictions

on annual tax increase limits required by Proposition 2 1/2.

If approved, the town can invoice taxpayers for these separate entities, which are not included in the tax levy, while simultaneously increasing real estate taxes within the structure of Prop. 2 1/2.

Without a clear understanding of the budgetary needs for this Enterprise over the next five-plus years, and a commensurate dollar-fordollar reduction in the tax levy, Westborough taxpayers are essentially handing the town a potential windfall in tax revenue.

At a time when many of us are struggling financially, the town should proceed with extreme caution to address the Storm Water Maintenance issue before heading at full speed into unchartered waters.

CORRECTION: In the March 17 issue, the Community Advocate misspelled Shrewsbury Director of Recreation Laurel Rossiter’s last name. We regret the error.

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A Piedmont Surprise

The Piedmont region of northwest Italy is well known for its high-quality red wines made from Nebbiolo grapes. The lower slopes and valleys of this region are planted with Barbera grapes, Italy’s third most planted grape. Wines from these red grapes were largely consumed within the region with local pasta dishes. Changes in vinification techniques and styles have made these wines more desirable to worldwide consumers. Barbera wines are medium-bodied, have bright acidity, and are low in mouth-puckering tannins. Whether made in stainless steel vats or aged in oak, these wines are wellbalanced and extremely food-friendly. Both the Barbera d’Alba and the Barbera d’Asti are good choices to pair with game, veal, pork, mushrooms, or traditional Italian fare.

The wine department at JULIO’S LIQUORS carries over 3,000 labels from 16 different countries. Our Beer department contains one of the largest selections of microbrews, domestics, imports, Belgians and Trappist beers, totaling over 1,000 beers in stock! Our Spirits department carries many hard-tofind items from single malt scotches to highend vodkas and gins. Stop by our store at 140 Turnpike Rd., Rt. 9 East and take a look at our great selection! Call 508-366-1942 HINT: Food can amplify the oak in wine, making the taste of wood overpowering for many dishes. Lightly oaked Barbera is much more approachable as a complement for foods.

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Wayne Webster Westborough

Hocomonco Pond committee unveils proposal for walking trails

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – A one-time Superfund site at Hocomonco Pond may become part of a network of walking trails.

Mark Silverberg, the Planning Board’s representative on the Hocomonco Pond Reuse Committee, presented the proposal at the Planning Board and Select Board meetings during the week of March 13.

After decades of use as a processing plant for creosote, asphalt and concrete, the area was declared a Superfund site in the 1980s. After extensive cleanup, the site was returned to the town in 2019.

The southern side of the pond has a trail maintained by the Westborough Community Land Trust. The proposal would build connector trails near the shoreline.

The fence that surrounds the area will remain; access points would be created for trail access. An additional fence would surround the areas where hazard-

ous waste has been buried.

“The fence is going to be the big expense,” said Silverberg. “This is the bare minimum we need to get this open to the public.”

Planning Board members discussed parking, especially along Smith Parkway and the MBTA commuter rail station. According to Silverberg, no

additional parking is being proposed.

A building on the pond, close to the Otis Street side, is in the early stages of being converted into a regional dispatch center.

Article 16

The committee is sponsoring Article 16 in this year’s Town Meeting warrant. It is a request

The Hocomonco Pond Reuse Committee is sponsoring Article 16, which would provide funds toward creating passive recreation at the one-time Superfund site.

tee, said she “fully supports” a plan to open the site to passive recreation, but she added that the committee should explore “other opportunities,” such as a possible grant for technical assistance offered by the University of Connecticut, to make sure the site is completely safe.

“I feel the technical assistance could give us more guidance,” she said.

She added that UConn would conduct a full site assessment should the grant application be approved.

for $30,820 from free cash to create bid documents.

At its March 9 meeting, the committee voted 5-3 to move forward with the article, with Shelby Marshall voting against.

Marshall, the Select Board’s member on the reuse commit-

Marshall also pointed out that the grant for the regional dispatch center will not be announced until June, and there’s still no idea what the grant would pay for.

Marshall would like to wait until fall Town Meeting in order to explore these opportunities.

The Select Board decided to hold off on its vote on Article 16 until members receive more information.

Nomination period closes, unofficial ballot set for Shrewsbury election

By Bill Gilman Senior Reporter

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In Briarwood’s assisted living apartments, residents receive customized support based on their individual needs. A Nurse directs the program, and our staff of Personal Care Attendants is on-site 24 hours per day.

Call us today at (508) 852-2670 to schedule a tour of our community today!

As you age, you may need help with some of your daily tasks, but that shouldn’t mean you have to give up your independence. With assisted living in the Elms at Briarwood, you receive the customized support you need in the privacy of your own apartment—all within a caring, supportive, and fun community.

In Briarwood’s assisted living apartments, residents receive customized support based on their individual needs. A Nurse directs the program, and our staff of Personal Care Attendants is on-site 24 hours per day.

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SHREWSBURY – When Shrewsbury residents cast their ballots on May 2, there will be three contested races among the four they will be voting on.

The nomination period closed March 14. Candidates have until March 30 to withdraw from their race.

Select Board

At the top of the ballot, five candidates will be vying for two seats on the Select Board. There will be at least one new board member, as Chair Moe DePalo announced in December he would not be seeking re-election.

Incumbent Beth Casavant will be seeking a third term on the Select Board.

Among her challengers will be James V. Brown, who serves as chair of the Parks and Cemetery Commission; Siobhan Costello-Weber; Town Meeting member Carlos Garcia; and Rajesh Uppalapati.

Uppalapati, who serves on the Beal School PTO board, ran for the board in 2022.

70 Briarwood Circle, Worcester, MA 01606 508-852-2670 • www.briarwoodretirement.com

School Committee

There are three candidates

running for two seats on the School Committee. There will be at least one new committee member, as member Jason Palitsch opted not to seek another term.

Incumbent Sandra Fryc is seeking her sixth term on the School Committee, having first been elected in 2008. She has also been an elected Town Meeting member since 2003.

Rachel L. Sharifipour is one of two challengers. She is presently co-president of the Paton School PTO. Rajesh Velagapudi, who is also running, currently serves as a member of the Community Preservation Committee.

Housing Authority

The third contested race is for one seat on the Shrewsbury Housing Authority.

Incumbent Kathleen McSweeney is running for a second term. She is being challenged by Anand Sharma.

Library Board of Trustees

There are three seats up for grabs on the Library Board of Trustees and just three candidates. Incumbents Elizabeth Powers and April Price are assured of re-election. They will be joined by newcomer Barbara Trudel.

PHOTO/TAMI WHITE

Selectmen tap firm to lead town administrator search

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH – The process to find a new town administrator is moving forward after the Board of Selectmen granted a contract to a firm to lead the search process.

“You folks are a desirable place. It’s a good place to be,” said Municipal Resources, Inc.’s Bob Mercier during a March 16 meeting. “You’ve had a couple of things: stability, you’re in very good shape financially.”

This decision comes after Town Administrator John Coderre accepted a job as the Foxborough town manager. His last working day will be March 31.

In February, the Board of Selectmen issued a request for proposals (RFP) from executive search firms to conduct a search for a new administrator. The town received three responses from Municipal Resources, Inc. (MRI), GovHR USA and Community Paradigm.

Over several hours, the selectmen interviewed the three firms. Ultimately, they decided to award the contract to Municipal Resources, Inc., which is based in Plymouth, N.H.

Buzz Stapczynski and Mercier handle the firm’s Massachusetts searches.

MRI was involved in the search which led to Kristi Williams becoming the Town Manager in Westborough and former Shrewsbury Assistant Town Manager Kristen Las to join Westford as its Town Manager.

“We don’t abandon the community after we complete the process. If the new manager, administrator, board member needs some advice, just call us,” said Mercier. “You’re not on a clock. We don’t do that. We support our communities after we go through the process.”

In their response, MRI outlined a proposed 12-week timeline, which would begin with developing a community profile and challenge statement for candidates. Part of their work will also involve helping the town find an interim town administrator.

Input from the community makes or breaks the process, said Mercier.

“If we were operating in a vacuum, whoever we moved to you without that knowledge of what you folks need, that person is going to fail,” Mercier said.

According to Mercier, MRI talks with every member of the Board of Selectmen, who would then determine who else the firm should talk with. MRI also will come to Northborough for a day to meet individually with town staff members.

The firm also holds community listening sessions, which could occur the evening on the day they are in town to meet

with town staff. Mercier said MRI also sets up an email address for community members to email their feedback.

As Stapczynski described it, their job is to bring candidates who can do the job.

If there’s disagreement about the ideal candidate, Stapczynski said they would return and discuss it with the board.

“But ultimately, it’s your

decision. We really pay attention to what you want and align the ideal candidate to the ideas and things that you tell us,” said Stapczynski.

He said MRI will share their ideal candidate and community profile with the board to review.

Mercier envisioned that Northborough may receive mid-level applicants who may be from smaller communities

looking for their next step.

When talking about what they liked about the firm, Selectman Kristen Wixted said that MRI did their homework on the town and she felt like they would listen to the board.

“Personality-wise, I really liked [Mercier and Stapczynski] and I felt like I could work with them really comfortably,” said Wixted.

Plantation Rum, Long Pond, and Canerock! A whopping THREE Loch & K(e)y selections will be on offer, including the just-dropped Panama 2012 nished in Pauillac wine casks! We’ll also enjoy a rare sip of Jamaican rum history from the rst-ever bottling from the legendary Long Pond Distillery.

Town Planner Jim Robbins lays out plans for retirement

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – For more than three decades, Jim Robbins has helped set the tempo for a changing community.

Factory sites to apartments. Farmland into housing. The arrival of high-tech companies.

The challenge to keep Westborough diverse and welcoming for everyone.

On March 31, Robbins will wrap up a 31-year stint as town planner. As the head of the Planning Department, Robbins helped to oversee the town’s zoning bylaws, subdivision rules and regulations, master plan, open space and recreation plan and housing plan.

That meant a lot of meetings, a lot of blueprints and knowledge about a lot of rules and regulations.

“Jim’s been a wonderful visionary in terms of planning to the town,” said Select Board member Ian Johnson. “He probably knows more about the physical nature of West-

Need A Message Of Hope?

borough than anyone in town.”

Westborough development

Robbins’ knowledge and longevity are such that, in the context of a meeting, he can recall projects that took place 20 years ago and even the rules that were in effect back then.

“It’s been an interesting journey,” he said.

That journey started 10 years before he put Westborough on his map when he worked in the mayor’s office for the city of Boston – for three

different mayors.

Come March 31, Jim Robbins will roll up the blueprints and wrap up a 31-year stint as the town planner for Westborough.

“I worked for Kevin White, Ray Flynn and Tom Menino,” said Robbins.

He also worked on Menino’s first campaign.

He and his wife, Nora, moved to Westborough in 1993 because they “wanted out of the city.”

He became town planner just when the town’s farms were being converted into family housing.

“Data General was in town, and there were 11-13 active

construction projects,” said Robbins.

He also recalled when EMC was building a new corporate campus.

“They were a big presence,” he said.

In the early 2000s, housing and office developments sprang up along Flanders Road and Friberg Parkway. But there was also an effort to build up downtown.

“There were a lot of vacancies,” said Robbins.

With help from the Design Review Board, a former factory became Bay State Commons, a mixed-used development.

“The town encourages downtown growth,” he said.

More recent developments include Amazon (including three fulfillment centers) and Cold Harbor brewery/restaurant on Otis Street.

“Westborough is a dynamic town with a strong school system,” said Robbins on what makes the town so attractive to residents and businesses alike.

“It’s really a diverse town.”

Robbins credited the many municipal boards — and the volunteers who comprise them — for the town’s success.

“The government is very responsive to the needs of the town,” he said, adding that he

“had a great Planning Board to work for.”

Current needs include housing and making downtown more walkable. He said that 25 West Main Street is “one of the best accomplishments” over the past 20 years.

“It’s a great place,” he said. Another challenge, according to Robbins — how to keep the young demographic in town.

“Jim’s been instrumental in the town’s growth,” said Economic Development Coordinator Zachary Boughner.

A new start

Once the calendar turns to April, Robbins said he has no immediate plans.

“I’m going to reassess and re-embark on a new start,” he said.

Away from the blueprints, Robbins likes gardening, fishing and cycling, and is a big jazz fan. He’s also a fan of the Red Sox, although his enthusiasm for them has cooled over the past two seasons.

The town’s search for Robbins’ replacement is under way.

A retirement party is planned for Thursday, March 30, from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Details will be announced.

Contested races for Northborough town moderator, School Committee

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

NORTHBOROUGH – It appears there will be contested races for town moderator and the Northborough School Committee.

The deadline for candidates to return their papers was March 14.

Incumbent Frederick George is running for reelection as town moderator against Joanne Stocklin.

There are two open seats on the Northborough School Committee. Incumbent Joan Frank, Gigi Lisa Howell and Kristen Willems-Tietjen have pulled papers for the election.

Other races on the ballot are uncontested.

There will also be new faces on the Board of Selectmen after Jason Perreault and Scott Rogers have announced that

they will not seek re-election. Lisa Maselli and Laura Ziton will be on the ballot for the open seats.

On the Planning Board, incumbents Millie Milton and Amy Poretsky are seeking re-election.

There are two seats up for election for both Northborough and Southborough candidates on the Regional School Committee. Northborough incumbents Chris Covino and Sean O’Shea are seeking reelection, and Southborough incumbent Paul Desmond and John Wysocki are also seeking seats on the committee.

The election will be on May 9. All precincts vote at Melican Middle School. For more information, visit https://www. town.northborough.ma.us/ home/news/annual-townelection-tuesday-may-9th7am-8pm.

PHOTO/ MAUREEN SULLIVAN

Grafton Garden Club offers scholarships Community Harvest Project promotes Johnson

GRAFTON – The Grafton Garden Club awards a $500 scholarship each year to residents of Grafton who attend or plan to attend an accredited institution and pursue studies in one of the following fields: agriculture, botany, forestry, horticulture, landscape architecture, environmental science, or plant and soil sciences.

An application form must be completed and returned with an official transcript of the applicant’s grades, a letter of recommendation, and a letter by the applicant stating why s/he is qualified to receive a Grafton Garden Club scholarship. The student must maintain a grade point average of at least 2.5 during the semester following the granting of the scholarship. The deadline for submission is March 31.

Application forms may be obtained from the Guidance Department at Grafton High School, by contacting the Graf-

ton Garden Club P.O. Box 453 Grafton, MA 01519, or by visiting www.graftongardenclub. org.

Recipients of the scholarship will be notified by May 1. All the money that supports students through scholarships and teachers through grants is raised at the Garden Club’s Annual Plant Sale and Raffle on the Common. This year, the sale will be on Saturday, May 13, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Attend for all your annual, perennial, vegetable and herbal plant needs. Club members will help you by answering your gardening questions. Profits go to support students and teachers as they study science and the environment.

The Grafton Garden Club is a 501c3 non-profit organization whose purpose is to promote interest in and knowledge of gardening and the environment. The Grafton Garden Club is open to anyone who wishes to join.

GRAFTON – Community Harvest Project, Wheeler Road, has announced Dave Johnson’s promotion to an expanded role as manager of farm operations overseeing both Community Harvest Project locations in Harvard and Grafton.

Johnson will direct agricultural operations across CHP, including planning what CHP will grow, how CHP grows it, and supervising and working alongside staff members who implement these plans with the help of volunteers.

As manager of farm operations, Johnson will be a key bridge between CHP Volunteer Management, Resource Development and the Communications Department all in service to CHP’s broader goals to accomplish its mission to engage and educate volunteers to grow fresh fruits and vegetables for hunger relief.

Executive Director Tori Buerschaper said, “We are thrilled to have Dave take on management of both our farms this year. His knowledge of

both locations will guide us to new opportunities in crop planning, volunteer engagement, sustainability programs, and Dave is the best person to help us manage land as we reckon with climate change. With Dave at the helm of both farms we have consistency across properties.”

Johnson has been with CHP since 2018, and he had 10 years of farming and food system experience prior to landing at CHP.

“I’m excited to join both CHP farms under one umbrella of oversight in order to identify opportunities for both operations to grow together and learn from each other. This will serve to provide a more engaging set of opportunities for our volunteers while streamlining and increasing our partners’ access to the food resources that we offer,” Johnson said.

To learn more about Community Harvest Project, visit community-harvest.org.

Dave Johnson

Shrewsbury looks to make parking more environmentally friendly ASP

By Bill Gilman Senior Reporter

SHREWSBURY – With each new planning and economic development initiative, the town of Shrewsbury takes another step toward reducing the community’s carbon footprint and, overall, being more environmentally conscious.

The latest “green” endeavor is connected to updating the town’s parking bylaws outside the Town Center District.

Last August, Shrewsbury received a $90,000 grant from the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) program to update the parking requirements in town bylaw. The objective is to emphasize green infrastructure and nature-based design.

Last week, the Planning and Economic Development Department hosted a pair of public input sessions to discuss sustainable parking requirements. They were facilitated by consul-

Giving Windows

tants from Beals and Thomas.

According to information provided by Director of Planning and Economic Development Christopher McGoldrick the objectives of the parking regulatory update are to “prevent further excessive development of impervious surface lots and to incentivize owners of existing overbuilt surface lots to reduce and replace their excess impervious surfaces with green infrastructure in order to decrease vulnerabilities related to increased extreme weather and heat events.”

According to Mary Kate Schneeweis, senior environmental specialist for Beals and Thomas, an excess of parking space can adversely impact the environment and the community in multiple ways.

“What we’re looking to [do] is to reduce the amount of parking square footage,” said Schneeweis. “Excessive parking space, with impervious surface, can cause problems with drainage and lead to flooding. It encourages more auto travel. It can contribute to social inequality and disincentivize economic development.”

Residents weigh in

As part of the town’s MVP report from 2018, residents had expressed concerns regarding a significant increase in flooding

Consultants lead a public input session regarding parking.

along Route 9 (Quinsigamond watershed), as well as Oak Street, Lake Street, Fruit Street, Maple Avenue and Route 20.

Another issue Schneeweis brought up was the “heat island” effect. This effect occurs on warm days when an asphalt surface in a parking lot absorbs and remits the heat, magnifying the temperature on and near the surface to a potentially dangerous level.

“According to the Shrewsbury MVP report, by 2050 Shrewsbury could have five times as many 90-degree days each year,” said Schneeweis.

One of the questions brought forth at the public input session was regarding the zoning or tax incentives the town may offer a property owner to reduce the size of its parking footprint.

As an exercise, the consultants had the residents go over several detailed neighborhood maps of the community and asked them to mark areas where they felt more parking was needed, where parking was sufficient and where there was excess, unused parking that could be reduced.

The report and recommendations being compiled by Beals and Thomas are expected to result in a future Town Meeting warrant article asking residents to amend the existing parking zoning bylaw.

WESTBOROUGH – The Appalachian Service Project will conduct a food drive on Saturday, March 25.

To register, send your address at westboroughfooddrive@gmail. com, and the ASP will send the registration link.

On March 25 at 9 a.m., leave donations curbside; the ASP will pick up collections through the day.

The items will go to the Westborough Food Pantry.

Suggested items — cookies, crackers, tuna, beef stew, hash, baked beans, ketchup, mustard, relish, salad dressing, pasta, pasta sauce, ramen, cake and brownie mix, potatoes (instant or canned), beets (canned), bar soap, detergent, dish detergent.

Other nonperishable food items will be accepted. No opened or expired items please.

For information, visit www.westboroughasp.org.

Petition to withdraw from regional dispatch center on warrant

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

SOUTHBOROUGH – An article to have the town withdraw from the MetroWest Regional Emergency Center’s Intermunicipal Agreement is among 11 citizens’ petitions to be considered at the annual Town Meeting.

Town Meeting will convene on Saturday, March 25, from 1 to 5 p.m. and 7 to 11 p.m. at Trottier Middle School, 49 Parkerville Road.

Two petitions pertain to the emergency dispatch center, which had been approved by Grafton, Westborough and Southborough. Article 37 requests the town to exercise its option to withdraw, without penalty, from the agreement.

According to Bonnie Phaneuf, who filed the petition, “There are substantive changes and omissions to the (IMA) regional emergency communications center district agreement, which the Southborough community should be made aware of.”

The Select Board voted to not support the petition, while

the Advisory Committee voted to support it.

Article 38 asks the town to vote to direct the Select Board to require emergency dispatch services to stay and remain under the control of the town.

This petition was filed by Kyle DeVincent and Heath Windress, among others.

The Select Board and the Advisory Committee voted to not support this article.

Two petitions concern the road project at St. Mark’s School. Filed by David Parry and others, the articles ask the town to cease the project (Article 42) and conduct a forensic investigation into the whys and wherefores of the project (Article 43).

The Select Board and the Advisory Committee voted to not support both articles.

Some of the other petitions include a request to change the voting age for municipal elections to 17 years old (Article 33) and a request to install Parkerville Road speed limit signs (Article 35).

View the entire warrant at tinyurl.com/yc78evtp.

merciful, for they

be shown mercy. Blessed are the pure

heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. You can’t expect that God is going to help you repeatedly unless you help Him. Inconceivably big as He is, the furtherance of His kingdom on earth comes about through human beings trying to help and serve. God has to have the love and help of people.

PHOTO/BILL GILMAN

Baypath Humane Society to host annual Fur Ball Gala

HOPKINTON – Baypath Humane Society has announced that tickets to the 11th annual Fur Ball Gala are on sale now.

Please join Baypath at the Verve Hotel in Natick on Friday, March 24, from 6 to 11 p.m. for a night of food, entertainment, dancing, auction and fun.

This year’s Fur Ball will have a disco theme. Whether you live for glimmering sequins, Abba’s “Dancing Queen,” or memories of Studio 54, you’ll feel right at home on March 24.

As in previous years, Baypath will have a number of auction items in a wide price

Aging Gracefully

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

WHEN LOW CHOLESTEROL ISN’T A GOOD THING

You can’t watch TV for more than a short while without seeing commercials aimed at seniors for some medication to lower cholesterol or a new food product that promotes lower cholesterol levels. Can your cholesterol ever be too low? The answer is yes...and no. If you are taking a statin or following a new, low sodium diet and your LDL (low density lipoprotein or “bad”cholesterol) number goes down, that’s great. But if your number drops for no discernible reason, that may be signs of trouble. People with low cholesterol may be more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety. It can also affect the body’s production of vitamin D, which is vital to brain cell health.

If you’re concerned about your cholesterol level, consult your doctor. If you’re taking statins, don’t stop without first consulting your doctor. He or she can determine the cholesterol range most appropriate for you. To learn more about our long-term care center, please call NOTRE DAME LONG TERM CARE CENTER at (508) 852-3011. We are located at 559 Plantation Street.

P.S In 2012 a study by the American College of Cardiology Scientific Sessions found a possible connection between low cholesterol and risk of cancer..

Notre Dame Health Care

range. Dress code is “disco fun.” Tickets for the event are $150 per person and include food.

The Fur Ball Silent Auction opened for preview online on March 17 and opened for bidding on March 20.

The Fur Ball is one of Baypath’s largest events each year,

and it is responsible for helping the organization meet its mission of caring for more than 1,000 cats and dogs each year.

“The Fur Ball, now in its 11th year and our largest fundraiser, provides a unique opportunity for the animal lovers in our community to mingle with one another in a relaxing

The Coleman House Skilled Nursing and Assisted Living Residences

This state-of-the-art facility offers families affordable choices when looking for a place that will meet your needs. Whether it be in our award winning Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Residences or our Assisted Living Residences specially designed for people with memory loss. You will receive quality care in the right setting to meet your changing healthcare needs.

The Coleman House features many design amenities to benefit our residents and their families. Spacious suites with soothing color schemes and soft interior decorative elements create a comfortable

environment promoting independence and social interaction.

I hope that you will visit our home and see for yourself all the services that we can offer. Our small size allows our family to know you personally so that all your needs are met. We are a true family owned and operated residence that is committed to providing our residents with the highest level of quality care coupled with a true sense of family values. For more information or to schedule a tour, please call us at (508) 351-9355, extension 1, or visit us at: www.colemanhouse.com

112 West Main Street, Northborough, MA • 508-351-9355 www.colemanhouse.com

evening full of fabulous fun,” said Elizabeth Jefferis, Baypath executive director. “We are thrilled to bring together so many, for a night of fun and to support the animals in need.”

To purchase tickets to this event, please visit baypathhumane.org/fur-ball-gala.

Ask

Citizen’s petition before Town Meeting asks to abandon Climate Action Plan

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – A citizen’s petition at the tail end of the spring Town Meeting requests the town to abandon the town’s Climate Action Plan.

Resident Boyd Conklin had Article 39 placed on the warrant because of claims regarding the expense to attain netzero emissions, locally and nationally, by 2050.

“The United States to spend $50 trillion to reach zero carbon emissions by 2050 to perhaps shave 0.1 [degrees] C … is irresponsible,” said Conklin in materials posted on social media and presented to town boards.

Conklin added that changing out the town’s school buses would cost $300,000 to $400,000 per vehicle, as opposed to $150,000 per vehicle that runs on diesel fuel.

He cites additional expens-

es in changing out the rest of the town’s fleet of municipal vehicles, as well as installing solar arrays and EV charging stations.

Conklin also questioned why electricity costs are rising if solar panels and wind turbines have become less expensive.

He added that wind and solar are not reliable, and that other sources of electricity, such as natural gas plants and hydroelectric dams, have to remain operational in case there’s no sun or wind.

Peter Dunbeck of Sustainable Westborough is among those who support the Climate Action Plan.

Dunbeck said the plan provides “an essential roadmap” for Sustainable Westborough and other committees. It was unanimously approved by the Select Board in 2021.

According to Dunbeck, NASA and other scientific agencies issued a joint state-

Proposed land swap tops Town Meeting warrant

ment that observations throughout the world make it clear that climate change is occurring, and research demonstrates that greenhouse gasses from human activities is the primary driver.

This led to both Massachusetts and the federal government to initiate programs to reduce carbon pollution, he said.

“Sustainable Westborough feels it is essential to maintain the Climate Action Plan and to proactive respond to these opportunities as we work to help the community transition to environmentally sustainable energy options,” Dunbeck said.

During its deliberations on Town Meeting Warrant articles, the Advisory Finance Committee recommended that Article 39 be defeated.

Town Meeting convenes on Saturday, March 25, at 9 a.m. at the high school auditorium. View the warrant at tinyurl. com/2dccfpaa.

Boston Marathon: History by the Mile

of

beloved 26.2 mile Boston Marathon. Author Paul C. Clerici takes us from Hopkinton to Boylston Street, remembering historic moments and great memories. Town by town, step by step, Paul will take us along the route with firsthand descriptions of the course from the uphill climbs, to the spirited sprints and share insightful anecdotes along the waythe naming of Heartbreak Hill!

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

SOUTHBOROUGH – A proposed transfer of land between the town and St. Mark’s School will be among the articles taken up at Annual Town Meeting on Saturday, March 25.

Article 12 is a request for the town and the school to swap parcels — the school would receive a town-owned property along St. Mark’s Street near the intersection with Marlboro Road (Route 85) in exchange for a school-owned parcel closer to the Town House and Southborough Public Library.

The town would like to reorient St. Mark’s Street, as well as develop a park within that parcel.

St. Mark’s Street connects Marlboro Road to Main Street (Route 30). Abutters include the Southborough Historical Society, the Southborough Public Library and the Town House.

A formal presentation on Article 12 will be made during Town Meeting.

Should this article be approved, Article 13 would request $250,000 from free cash to fund the park.

Capital requests

Capital funding requests within Article 7 include $148,000 for the Police Department to replace two frontline cruisers with two hybrid utility vehicles; $400,000 toward road maintenance; $50,000 for sidewalk maintenance; and $15,000 for security cameras for the Southborough Public Library.

Article 8 asks for an ap -

propriation of $488,000 to purchase 28 radios for the Fire Department and 24 radios for the Police Department.

Athletic facilities

Articles 14 and 15 pertain to the athletic fields for Algonquin Regional High School (Read more on Page 1).

Article 14, sponsored by the Community Preservation Committee, asks for an appropriation of $246,418.51 from the Community Preservation Act Fund for the town’s portion of the rehabilitation for Algonquin’s tennis courts (seven tennis courts, three pickleball courts and one basketball court).

Funding is contingent on Northborough funding its portion of the project; upon approval, the project is anticipated to begin in the summer of 2023.

Article 15, sponsored by the Regional School Committee, is a request to approve $7,960,393 of indebtedness authorized by the committee to pay for the renovation to the school district’s athletic facilities.

The project would include replacing the current football field and junior varsity practice field with turf surfaces; replace the existing track; replace the tennis courts; replace the existing bleachers and press box to ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act; construction of an outdoor amphitheater; and renovations to the amenities building.

Town Meeting will convene at Trottier Middle School from 1 to 5 p.m. and 7 to 11 p.m.

Garden Club presentation discusses climate change

NORTHBOROUGH – Climate change and its effect on plants will be the topic of a presentation from the Northborough Garden Club.

The presentation will be led by Robert Bertin, who is a professor emeritus of biology at the College of the Holy Cross where he teaches environmental science, ecology and field botany courses. Bertin’s presentation will

discuss global temperature trends, the factors that have led to the changes and the implication of rising carbon dioxide levels on the growth of plants and their flowering times.

The presentation will be Tuesday, April 4 at 6:30 p.m. at the Northborough Free Library meeting room. To register, visit www.northboroughgardenclub.com.

Planning Board approves over-55 development for Greenbriar Drive

Greenbriar Drive | from page 1 nates the proposed clubhouse, further reducing the density.

“The industry standard is, typically, if you have developments that are 60 units or larger, a clubhouse is a good thing to have,” said Grenier. “If you have less than 60 units, the thing you have is the monthly condo fees start going up. You wind up having fees that are too high, and it’s not warranted.”

Rather than having eight units designated as “affordable,” as would be required on a project of this type, the developers have chosen the option of paying a fee for each of those units. Board Chair Steven Boulay said that according to the state formula, that fee is $87,307 per unit for a total of $698,456.

Members of the board expressed their appreciation to Grenier and Lawrence Rosenberg and Stephen Blum of Cypress Avenue Development LLC for their perseverance and willingness to work with the board.

“It’s been quite some time and we’ve been requesting changes all throughout the process,” said board member Purna Rao. “It looks as though those changes [have been made], the most important of which was the reduction of the units. At this point, I’m satisfied.”

“My biggest concern was the density and obviously they’ve reduced the number of units down to where I feel more comfortable,” said board member Joseph Thomas.

Pooling water

The Planning Board meets regularly on the first Thursday of the month, and the public hearing for the 1 Greenbriar Drive project had been scheduled to be wrapped up and votes taken at the March 2 meeting. However, only three board members were able to attend that meeting, and four members are needed to vote on the special permit.

As a result, the board agreed to schedule a special meeting on March 16, with 1 Greenbriar as the only hearing on the agenda.

Several residents spoke at the final session of the public hearing. The primary con -

cern expressed was regarding pooling of water on streets, sidewalks and in backyards as a result of ongoing and future construction.

“Cypress Avenue is getting wetter and wetter. There is a new house being built at the top of Cypress. They’re not completely done with construction. But the pooling in front of the house directly next to it … has at least doubled,” said Rachael Missall. “Every time a new house is built in this neighborhood, more pooling on the streets and in the yards occurs. My neighbor was talking about his yard being very wet. You can’t walk on the sidewalk in front of his house anymore.”

Grenier blamed some of the flooding in the area on beaver activity in an area of the wetlands that “bottlenecks.” However, he also said mitigations would be put in place to deal with water runoff.

“It’s required that post development … that water runoff be no worse than it was in pre-development, wooded condition,” said Grenier.

According to Grenier, the water is first treated and then captured in detention basins. The plans include a large detention basin on the easterly side of the property, which Grenier noted is the lowest side of the site. The stormwater management can handle up to a 100-year storm event.

“We are reducing the rate of runoff from the site through detention basins and stormwater management,” he added.

The Food Farm was an early Shrewsbury supermarket

SHREWSBURY THEN NOW

By Michael Perna Jr. History Columnist

SHREWSBURY - In the early to mid1950s, Shrewsbury was undergoing a transformation in the way its residents bought groceries. Unlike today, when people purchase groceries through Amazon or any number of computer apps, stores used to be mostly familyrun small markets.

This all changed when the new “supermarket” type stores started appearing. Among these were the A&P, at the corner of South Quinsigamond Avenue and Route 9, and the “new” Orlando’s market, which was next to the old store located on the first floor of the family home at the corner of Route 9 and Edgewater Avenue. There was also Julio’s, which put a modern market behind what had been a market that was part of a house at the corner of South and Main Streets, and, of course,

the Food Farm, advertised here in the photograph of an original shopping bag from that era.

All of these changes took place starting in the early to mid-1950s. The Food Farm, as can be seen from the photograph, was located “in Fairlawn in Shrewsbury on the Pike.” It was in operation into the 1960s, when it was replaced by the Grace Furniture store (in the same building). Today, the building is occupied by the Trippi’s Uniforms store.

The Food Farm was one of the first supermarkets to open in Shrewsbury, during the 1950s.

BUSINESS

Clinton Savings Bank opens seventh branch in Shrewsbury

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

SHREWSBURY – Clinton Savings Bank has officially opened its door for its new branch in Shrewsbury.

The branch is located in the Edgemere Crossing at Flint Pond plaza at 200 Hartford Turnpike. It opened on March 20.

“Clinton Savings Bank, which has proudly served Shrewsbury residents and businesses for over 20 years now, identified Edgemere Crossing as an ideal branch location for its seventh branch due to the bank’s existing ties with the town’s thriving community,” said President and CEO Robert Paulhus Jr.

A community bank since 1851, Paulhus said that Clinton Savings Bank’s “stellar reputation” is because they offer more customer-facing and personal service compared to a big bank, for example.

“If you want to do your banking somewhere that knows you and has special knowledge and expertise of their local communities, then Clinton Savings Bank is the one and only choice,” said Paulhus.

Paulhus noted that the branch incorporates an open design and functionality, which Clinton Savings Bank plans to use in its future buildouts.

The branch will be led by Shrewsbury Business Develop-

ment Officer and VP Kathleen Kennedy.

“Since opening our doors less than a week ago, we are grateful for the warm reception we have already received and are excited to be part of such an amazing community,” Paulhus said.

As a community bank, Paulhus said that Clinton Savings Bank offers customers in-branch as well as online and digital solutions to help address their banking preferences. This

What should I do if I step on glass?

By Dr. Benjamin Saviet Podiatrist

Glass, like any foreign body that can penetrate skin, is likely to eventually be worked out by your body's natural defenses and in�lammatory response. However, the deeper it enters, the harder it is to get rid of and the longer it will likely take.

The �irst steps with any injury like this are to wash it with soap and warm water to remove any contamination and help reduce risk of infection. If there’s anything visible it's worthwhile to try to brush it out or use clean

tweezers to try to pluck it out.

If you aren't sure if you got it all, then you should soak the injury in warm water and epsom salts twice a day for a day or two until you can see a doctor.

Time matters

We like to see these in the of�ice within a few days if there’s any question that something might still be in there. Patients that are at risk for infection frequently are put on antibiotics. If there’s something to get out, we numb the area to remove it. If you wait 2-3 weeks, the wound can be healed up and the

Shrewsbury branch will offer a variety of consumer and commercial banking products that will support both growing families that call Shrewsbury their home as well as thriving commercial and small business enterprises, he said.

Plus, the location will allow existing customers to have more convenient access to their banking needs, and it will give families and businesses another financial option.

mobile sign that will alert residents to safety issues, inclement weather and community events.

According to Paulhus, the bank has plans to support Shrewsbury Youth and Family Services in their efforts to provide counseling, prevention and wellness to the greater Shrewsbury area.

Continued growth over the next several years is one of Clinton Savings Bank’s goals.

“This Shrewsbury branch expansion allows Clinton Savings to increase our accessibility, making it easier for consumers to take advantage of our quality of service, which in turn allows us to mobilize deposits, increase lending opportunities and increase our customer base,” Paulhus said.

The new branch has lobby hours of 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and extended hours until 5 p.m. on Thursday. On Saturday, the lobby will be open from 9 a.m. to noon.

simple act of plucking out a sliver of glass becomes a �ishing expedition.

Long story short: see a doctor or urgent care within a few days of the injury just to make sure. Call 508-757-4003 as we offer same-day visits for emergencies. This article was edited and condensed. Read the full feature at www.centralmasspodiatry.com/blog

Central Massachusetts Podiatry

According to Paulhus, by obtaining many of their core deposits locally and making loans to local businesses, Clinton Savings Bank is able to offer exclusive rates on their consumer products, cost savings for business checking accounts and customized commercial loans.

“The new branch is another reminder of the bank’s continued promise to support and invest in the communities we serve,” Paulhus said.

A supporter of their local communities, Clinton Savings Bank has already given back to Shrewsbury.

Recently, they donated $10,000 to the Shrewsbury Police Department to fund a

Their drive-up service features two lanes is open at 8 a.m. on weekdays. There is also a drive-up ATM available 24/7.

All deposits at Clinton Savings Bank are 100% fully insured without limit or exception. Each depositor is insured by the FDIC up to $250,000. All deposits above the FDIC insurance amount are insured in full by the Depositors Insurance Fund (DIF).

For more information, visit https://www.clintonsavings. com/.

Business Profiles are advertising features designed to provide information and background about Community Advocate advertisers.

Craftworks to participate in knit-a-thon fundraiser

NORTHBOROUGH – Break out your needles because Craftworks is participating in the third annual Knit for Food Knita-thon.

This fundraiser, hosted by Laura Nelkin, benefits Feeding America, World Central Kitchen, No Kid Hungry and Meals on Wheels. Throughout the marathon, there will be a schedule of programs through Zoom, including music, speakers, yoga, stretching and knitting ergonomics.

Participants will also be able to hear from the four organizations that will benefit from the fundraiser.

Craftworks is located at 234 West Main St. The event is March 26, and it will kick off at 10 a.m. and last until 10 p.m.

For more information, call 508-393-9435. To donate, visit https://givebutter.com/knitforfood23/Craftworks.

For more information on Craftworks, visit www.craftworkscoop.com.

Robert Paulhus Jr.

Clinton Savings Bank’s new branch in Shrewsbury.

PHOTOS/COURTESY CLINTON SAVINGS BANK

Clinton Savings holds ribbon cutting for Shrewsbury branch

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

SHREWSBURY – With a cut of a ribbon, Clinton Savings Bank officially opened its newest branch in Shrewsbury.

“I think it’s fantastic — the building, the architecture, everything here,” said Chair of the Board of Directors William O’Neil Jr. during the ribbon cutting on March 16.

The branch, which is located

within the Edgemere Crossing at Flint Pond plaza on Hartford Turnpike, officially opened on March 20.

This marks Clinton’s seventh branch, which is also located in Berlin, Bolton, Boylston, Clinton, Sterling and West Boylston. President and CEO of Clinton Savings Bank Robert Paulhus Jr. said that Clinton Savings Bank identified this location as the site of a possible branch about five years ago.

“It has been a long haul for us, and, for that reason as well, we’re very excited to be here tonight,” said Paulhus.

Select Board member Beth Casavant and Sen. Michael Moore (D-Millbury), who presented a citation from the senate, also attended the ribboncutting.

Central One Federal Credit Union honored

SHREWSBURY – Central One Federal Credit Union has been recognized as a top credit union lender in Massachusetts by the Warren Group.

This honor is based off the union’s 2022 activity. Central One has branches located in Auburn, Northborough, Shrewsbury, Westborough and Worcester.

Every year, Banker & Tradesman publishes data that has been collected by the

Warren Group that outlines the top 10 lenders for the state in multiple categories, including single-family, multifamily, commercial, residential refi and condominium loans in both loan dollars and volume.

“We are extremely proud of our lending team and their ability to help members of the community to find the best mortgage or HELOC for their specific needs,” Central One wrote in a press release.

Westborough Office Space

The plaza is located on the site of the former Edgemere Drive-In. Throughout the ribbon cutting, speakers shared their personal stories of going to the drive-in. The branch itself honors the history of the site with a corner of the bank having a replica of the drive-in’s sign.

Central One Federal Credit Union was also ranked 146th in the country for second mortgages as reported from the American Credit Union Mortgage Association for data collected for Sept. 30, 2022.

Central One encourages people who are looking to refinance or purchase a new home to visit its website at www.centralfcu.com to learn more about their affordable options.

“On behalf of the Shrewsbury Select Board, we welcome you,” said Casavant. “I love that you have incorporated touches to really capture the local flavor of the place that you’re going to be doing business.”

President and CEO of Corridor 9/495 Regional Chamber of Commerce Karen Chapman said she talked with Paulhus about the importance of location.

“We are so thrilled to have you right here in Shrewsbury. … [I’m] so happy to see that this great piece of property was turned into a mixed-use development, and more importantly, that Clinton Savings Bank chose to be here,” Chapman said. “What a beautiful new branch that you have here.”

The bank will be open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Thursday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to noon. The drive-up lanes will open at 8 a.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. on Saturday.

Progressive Realty

Clinton Savings Bank and Shrewsbury leaders gather in front of the new branch for a ribbon cutting.

PHOTO/LAURA HAYES

SPORTS

Regional School Committee approves $7.9M for Algonquin athletics complex project

Algonquin | from page 1

The track, worn out by countless community members and Algonquin students over the years, has “heavy patching and puddling,” according to Superintendent Greg Martineau. The track does not currently

meet MIAA standards for hosting track meets.

The soil is heavily compacted on both the stadium and multipurpose fields, which needs to be frequently rested, meaning some teams don’t have access to the facilities.

As part of the plans, both fields would be upgraded to turf, and the track and tennis courts, which are also badly cracked, would be replaced. The grandstand, amenities building, and press box will be upgraded and made acces-

sible under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The stadium lights, which are not sufficiently bright, will also be upgraded. The project would also add several new features to the complex. The plans call for the installation of an amphitheater and a lacrosse wall. In addition, two tennis courts will be converted into a basketball court and three pickleball courts.

“I know when [Algonquin] Principal [Sean] Bevan presented this plan to the students, there was a lot of excitement about the pickleball courts,” Martineau said.

Martineau emphasized that the project will be built for the local community, not just Algonquin students.

“We truly believe this is a community asset and a community investment,” Martineau said. “Additional field time will be available to Northborough and Southborough recreation, as well as Northborough and Southborough youth sports participants and organizations.”

The Northborough Planning Board approved the site plans for the project March 7. However, the board noted that the approval didn’t endorse a particular playing surface.

Town meeting

The project will cost $7,960,393. Northborough would be expected to pay $4,961,713, which is 62.33% of the total cost, while Southborough would pay the remaining $2,998,680.

The regional district plans to finance the construction by issuing a 15-year bond. The financing for the project would not have any additional impact

on taxpayers in fiscal year 2024, and bond anticipation notes would be in fiscal 2025.

In the last ten years of payment, the average Northborough household could expect to pay an extra $73 annually, while Southborough residents would pay an extra $87 per year.

The plan will head to each town’s Town Meeting in the coming weeks for approval, heading first to Southborough March 25.

If the Town Meetings approve, Martineau said the district intends to have the new fields ready for the fall sports season.

If the project is not approved, Martineau warned that the price would only increase for these badly needed renovations, and certain activities will continue to be relocated.

“Our track coaches talk about having to schedule home meets away because they can’t use the track,” Martineau said.

In a discussion about complex, School Committee members said that property values may increase after the facilities are renovated and voiced their concern for safety.

“My biggest concern isn’t necessarily property values, but… student safety and athlete safety,” Chris Covino said. “I want Algonquin athletes to compete at competitions at Algonquin.”

“It’s important to stress that it’s not because of lack of maintenance that the facilities are what they are; they’re aged out. There comes a point where you can’t just keep sinking money into your old car and expecting it to work,” Covino added.

This photo shows the pooling and patching on the track at Algonquin Regional High School.

PHOTO/LAURA HAYES

hockey team wins state championship

By Bill Gilman Senior Reporter

BOSTON – Every hour of every endless practice, every drop of sweat, every bruise and sprain, every tear shed from every past disappointment — it was all just an investment.

Sunday night, it paid off with championship gold.

Shrewsbury High School captured its first-ever girls’ hockey State Championship with a 4-1 win over top-seeded St. Mary’s of Lynn, at TD Garden.

“Words can’t describe how I feel right now, I’m so proud of these girls,” said Coach Frank Panarelli. “I knew we had the team to do it this year. I kept telling them to buy in, work hard in practice, that’s why, in the third period, I think it showed we were in better shape than them. I’m just so proud of these girls, I don’t know where to start.”

Last year, the Colonials made it to the Final Four before falling to Arlington.

As it has throughout much of its post-season run, No. 3 Shrewsbury got off to a sluggish start, skating hard but just out of sync on the offensive end. By contrast, St. Mary’s looked like a team on a mission, buzzing the net and keeping the Colonials scrambling in their defensive zone.

But Shrewsbury goalie Risa Montoya was up to the task, making 10 of her 19 saves in the first period. The junior set the tone early with a brilliant stop on St. Mary’s forward Gabbi Oakes, left all alone in front of the net.

“I have no words. This is such an amazing feeling! We just

won the state championship!” said Montoya, who finished the season with a 1.02 GAA. “Honestly, I know it sounds cocky, but I knew after (we scored) that first goal, I knew we could do it. I knew we were just going to have to play our game and keep the lead.”

That “first goal” came off the stick of Captain Taylor Ryder, who was sitting on the doorstep and knocked home the rebound of a shot by Rachel Busnick, with 5:00 to play in the first period, giving Shrewsbury

Meet Chief & Blackie

a 1-0 lead.

“I’m so proud of our team, this is amazing. Our team just played so amazing,” said Ryder. Ryder said that scoring first was key for the Colonials.

“I think in our last game, against NDA-Hingham, we went down 2-0 in the first period and the nerves just got the best of us,” said Ryder. “And I think (tonight), the first five minutes, we were lucky not to give up a goal and go down. I think after we got that first goal it just boosted us and gave us so

much confidence in ourselves.”

Shrewsbury carried that momentum into the second period, dominating play but unable to build on its lead thanks to the solid play of Spartan goalie Angelina Catino, who totaled 20 saves.

Playing with a sense of desperation, St. Mary’s came out hard in the third period and tied the game just 2:33 into the period.

With Shrewsbury back on its heels, St. Mary’s pressed the attack and looked ready to

take the lead, were it not for the heroics of Bridget McLaughlin. Montoya made a nice save but the rebound came loose and there was a scramble in front of the net. Somehow, the puck wound up behind Montoya and rolled precariously through the crease of the vacated net. McLaughlin, a junior defenseman, swooped in and cleared the puck safely away to maintain the tie.

“Oh, my God! That was probably the scariest moment all game. [Bridget] played amazing all game,” said Montoya. “She basically played goalie on that one. I literally came off the ice and gave her a huge hug for that one.”

Moments later, perhaps frustrated, St. Mary’s freshman Gianna Young was whistled for a hooking penalty, putting Shrewsbury on the power play and setting up Colonial Yasmine McKenzie’s tie-breaker. Goals from Maddie Mrva and Paige Umile rounded out the scoring.

The four goals scored by Shrewsbury were more than St. Mary’s (25-2-0) had given up in any game this season.

Dr. Eric Bryan

Left: The Shrewsbury High girls hockey team poses with the State Championship banner after beating St. Mary’s, 4-1, in the D1 final at TD Garden.

Left: Shrewsbury’s Katherine Vona (10) looks to get a stick on the puck in front of the St. Mary’s net. Right: Shrewsbury senior Maddie Mrva unloads a slap shot in the second period.

PHOTO/BILL GILMAN

Marlborough resident leads Massachusetts Senior Games

By Bill Gilman Senior Reporter

MARLBOROUGH – For the first time in six years, there is new leadership at the Massachusetts Senior Games.

Dennis Pollard, 78, of Marlborough, was recently elected to a three-year term as chairman of the games’ board of directors. He succeeds Davis Cox, 83, of Northborough, who served six years as chair.

Pollard has served four years on the board, most recently as vice chair.

As with all organized athletic competitions, the Massachusetts Senior Games took a hit from the COVID-19 pandemic with cancellations and restrictions. Still, Pollard feels the games are in a strong position moving forward.

“We are certainly still trying to bounce back from the pandemic. But last year was a pretty good year for us,” said Pollard. “We are looking to expand and add sports.

We’re adding cornhole this year. We’re looking to have a soccer tournament for the first time in five years, and we are hopeful to have a softball tournament for the first time in many years.”

Additional events will also be added to the track and field competition this summer at Springfield College.

More than 1,200 Massachusetts athletes take part in the Senior Games each year. As many as 30 sports will be contested at 20 different communities in 2023. Competitions are divided into five-year age groups. The competition season started with alpine skiing at Wachusett Mountain in Princeton on March 8, and will be followed by the ice hockey tournaments starting in late April in Worcester.

Despite the name, Massachusetts Senior Games has opportunities for athletes aged 40 and up to compete. However, only athletes 50

and over are eligible for the National Senior Games.

In addition to his position on the board, Pollard has also served the past five years as game manager for the games’ pickleball competition, an event which has grown into one of its most popular.

“The last two years we have had more than 200 people participating each year,” said Pollard. “It’s a sport that has grown exponentially in popularity.”

Another goal for Pollard is seeking additional sponsors

for the Massachusetts Senior Games and raising overall awareness of senior athletic competition.

Besides his passion for pickleball, Pollard is an active skier and cyclist. Married for more than 50 years, he and wife Diane have two children and three grandchildren.

While Cox’s role as board chairman has come to an end, he will be remaining active with the games in his new position on the executive committee.

“The past chairman moved to the executive committee for a three-year term. It helps maintain the continuity and keeps the experience,” he said.

Specifically, Cox will be working with the marketing team, looking to increase awareness of the games and generate positive publicity for the athletes with local news outlets.

Cox will also be continuing as an active competitor. This past year, competing in shuffleboard, he won gold and silver medals at the Massachusetts Senior Games and went on to win a silver medal in doubles at the national competition.

He has one other project he is pursuing with great vigor.

“I’m hoping that we can get the National Senior Games hosted by Massachusetts in Boston. It would be great for the state with more than 15,000 athletes participating,” said Cox. “I’m hoping it can happen in 2025, fingers crossed.”

Learn to run with ‘Couch to 5K’ program

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

HOPKINTON – Have you ever wanted to run a 5K?

The Hopkinton Running Club is offering “Couch to 5K,” a 10-week program designed to train anyone who has ever wanted to run a 5K (3.1-mile) race.

In-person training will begin on Sunday, April 2 and held weekly from 8 to 9 a.m.

The goal of the program will

be to take part in the Sharon Timlin Memorial 5K on Saturday, June 17.

The cost of the program is $50 per person and includes inperson training sessions; access to running coaches; a Couch to 5K T-shirt; and a membership to the Hopkinton Running Club.

To sign up for the program, visit the registration site at https://www.runreg.com/hrcmembership-2023.

For information, email hopkintonrunning@gmail.com.

Dennis Pollard, right, of Marlborough, presents a plaque to Davis Cox, of Northborough, to recognize Cox’s six years of service as board chairman of the Massachusetts Senior Games. Pollard is succeeding Cox in that role.

COURTESY PHOTO/MASSACHUSETTS SENIOR GAMES

Residents apply to join Golf Club Building Use Committee

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – A lot of residents value the Westborough Golf Club.

Whether they are members of the club or not, they are interested in the future of the building that once housed the Civic Kitchen & Drink restaurant.

During the Select Board’s meeting on March 16, the board heard from those wishing to join the Golf Club Building Use Committee. According to Chair

Sean Keogh, there has been “tremendous interest” in the committee.

“It’s so exciting to see” the level of interest, said Select Board member Shelby Marshall.

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

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

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

The seven-member committee has one seat available for a club member and two seats for residents who are not members of the club.

Seven members of the club, along with nearly two dozen non-club members, have expressed interest in joining the committee.

“I know the building pretty well,” said Clay Borglund. Borglund is a club member who’s run a roofing company for 35 years and worked on the club building’s roof.

“It’s a gem and asset to the town,” said Teresa O’Day, a club member since 1995. “The building is a town treasure.”

“I really love the course,” said Matthew Jerome, a nonmember of the club. “I want to have a say.”

Another nonmember, Bryan White, would like to see the

building repurposed for office or art exhibit space. In addition, he’d like to see more activities at the course, such as snowshoeing.

The board will review the applications and will make its selections at its next meeting on Tuesday, March 28. Even those not selected to the committee are encouraged to provide input.

Once the committee is formed, it has until Oct. 1 to determine the best use of the building.

POLICE FIRE& Car crashes into Grafton house

By Laura Hayes Managing Editor

GRAFTON – A car crashed into a residence near the intersection of Millbury Street and Providence Road, leaving the house uninhabitable.

First responders were called to the crash at 3:47 p.m., March 15.

According to a post by the Grafton Police Department, a car was driving south on Providence Road when it veered off the road and struck a house.

Police said the crash caused “significant structural damage rendering it uninhabitable.”

From photos shared by police from the scene, it appears the car struck a deck. The entire house appears to have tilted off the foundation.

According to a press release from the Grafton Fire Department, there were three people in the car — two adults and one child. Bystanders helped one of the adults and the child get out of the vehicle before firefighters arrived, the department said.

A total of 15 Grafton Fire Department personnel and several apparatuses arrived.

“This response allowed the Fire Department to simultaneously stabilize the vehicle, the damaged structure and safely extricate the driver,” the department wrote.

The driver was injured during the crash and was transported to a local hospital. The two passengers were uninjured.

According to the fire department, the residents were at

Shrewsbury police seek help to find owner of abandoned dog

By Bill Gilman Senior Reporter

SHREWSBURY – Shrewsbury

Police are asking for the public’s help in tracking down the person who abandoned a dog on Route 9 on March 12.

According to information published on the SPD social media accounts, the male German shepherd was discovered around 10 a.m., tied by its leash to a bench near the Christmas Tree Shops, 1000 Boston Turnpike.

According to witnesses, the person who tied the dog to the bench was seen leaving the area in a taxi cab.

Police say the dog is neutered and was wearing a black collar and a chain leash. The dog was not microchipped.

The dog is presently being

housed at the Worcester Animal Rescue League but is not available for adoption.

Shrewsbury Police are asking anyone who recognizes this dog or has any information about its owner please to contact the Shrewsbury Police headquarters at 508-845-4681 or Shrewsbury Animal Control at 508-841-8421.

home at the time of the crash. However, they were not injured. The cause of the crash is still under investigation.

“This motor vehicle accident serves as a great reminder that the proper use of seat belts and child safety seats save lives,” the fire department wrote.

Shrewsbury police investigating bus stop incident

By Bill Gilman Senior Reporter

SHREWSBURY – The Shrewsbury Police Department is investigating an incident that took place at a school bus stop March 15.

According to an email sent by Shrewsbury Superintendent Joseph Sawyer to district parents and staff and posted to the district website, three Floral Street School students were approached at the Shrewsbury Commons bus stop by a man driving a black sedan.

The incident was reported to the school resource officer, who is working with the Shrewsbury School Department on the investigation.

The students reported the man told them he was an Uber driver and that their parents

had requested he take them to school. According to Sawyer, the students refused to get into the vehicle and told the man they were taking the bus to school. At that time, the bus approached the stop and the man drove away.

Shrewsbury police describe the driver of the vehicle as a Hispanic male, in his late 30s to 40s.

According to Sawyer, Shrewsbury police will be increasing their presence in that area as they continue to investigate the incident.

“I wanted to make you aware of this situation directly and ask that families remind your children about your rules regarding safety and strangers and to report anything unusual to you or an adult at school immediately,” wrote Sawyer.

Anyone with information

about the incident or who was in the area of the Shrewsbury Commons bus stop that morning around the time the bus was picking up children is asked to contact Shrewsbury Police Officer Shawn Valliere at 508841-8435.

In his letter, Sawyer also included a link to the National Crime Prevention Council with tips regarding children and strangers (http://archive. ncpc.org/topics/violent-crimeand-personal-safety/strangers. html).

Shrewsbury police encourage anyone who witnesses any suspicious vehicles or activity around bus stops or children, to call 911. They also encourage witnesses, if possible, to safely attempt to make note of license plate numbers, or vehicle make/ models.

First responders were called to a report of a car that crashed into a Grafton home.

Crews work to remove a car that crashed into a Grafton home.

PHOTOS/COURTESY GRAFTON POLICE DEPARTMENT

This German shepherd was abandoned, tied to a bench near the Christmas Tree Shops on Route 9, Shrewsbury.

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

Camden Sr., Owen of Marlborough

Carpenter, Marjory of Marlborough

Chang-Gagnon, Mark of Los Angeles

Cronin, Kevin formerly of Shrewsbury

Dzigas, Gloria of Marlborough

Fulmer, Zola of Northborough

Glick, Allen President and Treasurer of Glick Nissan in Westborough

Godsoe, Barbara of Marlborough

Herman, Denise formerly of Shrewsbury

Manteuffel, Daniel of Shrewsbury

Morris, Elizabeth of North Grafton

Quinlivan, Robert of Shrewsbury

Ritacco, Rev. Richard of Shrewsbury

Santella, Matthew formerly of Marlborough

Shomphe, David of Southborough

Williams, Leonora former longtime English Department head at Fay School

Zereski, Cathy of Northborough

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

POLICE LOG

a copy of court issued documentation.

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

Marlborough

Thursday, March 9

7:42 p.m. Arrested , Denise Stukonis, 52, of 32 Dean St., Hudson, for OUI-liquor or .08% 2nd offense, improper turn.

Tuesday, March 14

6:25 p.m. Arrested , Bradley D. Miller, 54, of 7 Francis Dr., Upton, for OUI-liquor or .08%.

Denise M. Herman

1960 - 2023

INMAN, S.C. - Denise “Dee” began her final journey after an AVM stroke and eleven days in ICU at Prisma Greenville Memorial Hospital. She is survived by son Lee Herman, wife Maura Cummings and grandchildren Thomas and Felix of PA; dear family friend Gregg Gelinas, NH; mother, Claudette(Cucurullo) Herman, MA; twin sister Debra Herman Power and nieces Katlin and Kristie, GA; sister Marla (Herman) Cheverie, niece Nicole Hoisington and nephew Nickolas, FL; aunts and uncles Diana (Herman) Roppo, husband James, and cousin Joseph, CA; Joann(Herman)

Ahlberg and husband Richard, ME; Judy (Bennett) Gandolfo, NH; Nancy (Cucurullo) Doyon and husband Leo, TX; Godfather, Francis A Cucurullo and cousin Kevin, MA; cousins Susan(Ahlberg)Fogarty and husband Ed, Sonja (Ahlberg) and husband, NH; Rick Ahlberg, MA; an estranged younger son, and several cousins, their families, and childhood friends. She is predeceased by her father, Joseph E. Herman

Jr., NH; grandparents, Navy CDR Joseph E Herman, Sr., SD and wife Theresa (Northcott), Newfoundland; Antonette (Fillipone, Cucurullo) Bennett and husband Nelson, MA.

Matthew J. Santella, 39

WORCESTER - Matthew J. Santella, 39, unexpectedly passed away on Wednesday March 8, 2023. Matty was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle and friend. Matty is survived by his beloved wife of over 20 years, Alisha (Welch) Santella; his cherished daughter Mia and dearest son, Nico, both of Worcester; his parents Michael J. Santella and Donna (McMahon) of Marlborough; a brother Michael J. Santella, Jr. and his wife Ciji of Rutland; a sister, Carley P. Lapomardo and her husband Tony of Bolton; four nephews and nieces, Madison, Jacoby, Gianna and Vin.

He was a graduate of Marlborough High School Class of 2002. He later attended UMASS and Peterson School. Matty worked alongside his father at Santella Electric in Marlborough for 20 years. He

was a licensed electrician for the past 16 years and in 2018 he took over the family business.

Matt enjoyed several interests and hobbies, but his biggest source of joy was the family he, and the love of his life Alisha, created. Matty was a dedicated husband and father, and his family was the center of his world. His greatest passion was watching his children excel at sports. Hockey was a thread throughout Matty’s life, he was privileged to play hockey from the age of 4 to his adult life, which eventually led him to coach his son. The family enjoys traveling the country for hockey tournaments and golf explorations. One of Matty’s greatest pleasures was spending the day playing 18 holes.

Matt was fascinated with family ancestry and heritage. He took pride in perfecting the family pizza recipe and making his famous chicken thigh cutlets. Calling in waves was a summer staple while body surfing the ocean. Music soothed his soul, in his adult life he taught himself guitar and piano.

Matty’s love for music extended to singing and dancing. He would always have music playing and he would sing along and educate everyone about the song or artist. That passion extended into his love for dancing, dancing every -

where but most eccentrically dancing at weddings.

Hosting his annual Christmas Eve party was the highlight of the season, along with caroling the neighborhood and orchestrating the “12 Days of Christmas” jingle. He was an admirer of mid-century modern architecture and a student of William Shakespeare. Matty’s family extended far into many circles, he cherished his friends as family. His happiness was limitless, he had an endless passion for life and his smile was infectious to whoever he was with.

The Collins Funeral Home of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.

Mark K. ChangGagnon, 52

LOS ANGELES, CALIF. - Mark Kenneth Chang-Gagnon, 52, of Los Angeles passed away peacefully on Friday, February 3, 2023, surrounded by his beloved family, at The Keck Hospital of USC. He was the husband of Saeyoung Chang, whom he married in 2019 and they lived a blessed and loving life. Born in Weymouth, MA on July 10, 1970, to Patricia (Higgins) and G. Kenneth Gagnon, of Westborough, MA.

Wednesday, March 15 10:48 a.m. Arrested, Miles Delaney, 32, of 151 N Main St., Apt. 37, Bellingham, for op MV with registration suspended/revoked, uninsured motor vehicle, true warrant.

Southborough

Monday, Feb. 27

7:23 p.m. Arrested , Gabriel E. Nieves Reynoso, of Willow Trl., Marlborough, for op MV with license suspended, registration sticker missing.

Saturday, March 4

1:21 p.m. Arrested , Wesley Rodrigues Barbosa, of Anchorage Rd., Franklin, on warrant.

Sunday, March 5 11:31 p.m. Arrested, Anais Estrada, of West St., Milford, on warrant, speeding/rate of speed exceeding posted limit.

Wednesday, March 15 7:12 a.m. Arrested , Nelson Euguenio, of Lincoln St., Marlborough, for op MV with license suspended, license not in possession, registration not in possession.

Shrewsbury

Friday, March 10

1:17 p.m. Arrested, Catherine L. Dahlstrom, 37, of 178 Putnam Hill Rd., Sutton, on warrant.

Tuesday, March 14

4:19 a.m. Arrested, Snehal A. Srivastava, 24, of 9334 Flint Pond Cir., Shrewsbury, on warrant.

Westborough

Tuesday, March 7

11:47 a.m. Arrested, Monica VelezCaraballo, 35, of 33 Hosmer St., Apt. 2D, Boston, on warrant.

Wednesday, March 8

1:05 a.m. Arrested, Juan Cuxum, 34, of 7 Flanders Rd., Westborough, for B&E building nighttime for felony.

Thursday, March 9

6:40 p.m. Arrested, Jackeline Cruz, 47, of 78 Queen St., Lowell, for A&B with dangerous weapon, A&B on ambulance personnel.

Friday, March 10

1:26 a.m. Arrested , Alexandre Ribeiro Leite, 49, of 366 High St., Clinton, for unlicensed operation of MV, negligent operation of motor

vehicle.

11:04 a.m. Arrested , Kevin P. Donfield, 54, of 7 Old Harry Rd., Southborough, for op MV with license suspended.

11:10 a.m. Arrested, Eugene Pezzano, 43, of 675 E 4th St., Boston, on straight warrant.

10:08 p.m. Arrested, Nathan Luis Vonhausen, 20, of 9 Donna Pass, Hopkinton, for B&E for misdemeanor, vandalize property, possess burglarious instrument.

Saturday, March 11

4:20 a.m. Arrested, Mac Kevin Rodshield Charles, 23, of 26 Norwood St., Malden, on straight warrant.

Monday, March 13

11:06 a.m. Arrested, Anthony Felix Medina, 22, of 24 Rock Ave., Apt. 227, Auburn, on warrant.

Thursday, March 16

8:39 a.m. Arrested , Yamilette Naiomi Chamorro, 21, of 33 ½ Barclay St., Apt. 3, Worcester, on straight warrant.

6:48 p.m. Arrested, Elimar Nascimento Dos Anjos, 37, of 19 Melrose St., Apt. 7, Framingham, for op MV with license suspended, miscellaneous MV equipment violation.

He is survived by his two children, Allison of NYC, and Andrew of San Francisco as well as his stepdaughters, Stella and Hana Vu. He also leaves his sister, Karen Sullivan of Charlestown, MA and his brother, Chris and his wife Andrea of Natick, MA. Cherishing his memory and all the fun times with Mark are his nieces and nephews: Owen and Luke Sullivan, Ave, Allegra, and Levi Gagnon along with numerous loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

A Memorial Mass in Thanksgiving for Mark’s Life will be celebrated on Saturday, April 15 at 11:00 A.M. in St. Luke the Evangelist Church, 70 West Main Street, Westborough. A reception will follow in the Parish Center next to the church.

The Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.

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

COMMUNITY OBITUARIES

Obituaries | from page 19

Daniel J. Manteuffel, 84

SHREWSBURY - On March 9, 2023, Daniel J. Manteuffel passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family.

He leaves the love of his life, his wife, Judith Blinn Manteuffel of Shrewsbury, MA; his sister Linda Manteuffel Holloman and her husband Colonel (US Army Retired) Tom Holloman of Macon, GA; and his brother Warner Moore Coward of Las Vegas, NV.

Daniel had several passions throughout his life, the two greatest being his family and his country. Daniel leaves as his legacy his devoted family, including his sons, Daniel Jr. and his wife, Tina, of Rochester, NH; Derek and his wife, Amanda, of Hudson, MA; and Jared of Worcester, MA. He also leaves his grandchildren, Justin of Rochester, NH; Ashley Boucher and her husband, Robert, of Lebanon, ME; Clara and Daniel of Hudson, MA; and great-grandchildren Robert Jr. and Paisley of Lebanon, ME.

The Chiampa Funeral Home of Shrewsbury assisted with arrangements.

Elizabeth A. Morris, 83

GRAFTON - Elizabeth A. (Dame) Morris, 83 of North Grafton, MA passed away peacefully March 11, 2023 at AdviniaCare Northbridge after a long battle with dementia. She leaves her beloved husband of 61 years Richard E. Morris.

She is also survived by her three children David Morris, Thomas Morris and his fiancee Sheryl DePiano, and Karen Parent and her husband Steven. She leaves her loving grandchildren Ted, Jack, Lauren and Robbie. Elizabeth also leaves her sisters Carol Norton, Susan O’Neil and her husband Edward, and brothers James Dame and his wife Phyllis and Richard Dame and his wife Vicky and several nieces and nephews.

The Roney Funeral Home of North Grafton assisted with arrangements.

Leonora A. Williams, 82

CRAIGVILLE - Leonora Ann Shannon Williams passed peacefully on Monday, March 3rd. She was surrounded by her immediate family: her sons, Todd and Mark, Todd’s daughters Annabelle and Abby, and his partner, Kathryn Miles. She was predeceased by her husband, Fred Williams.

Lee was born to George and Leonora Shannon on June 22, 1940 in Newton, Massachusetts. She had five siblings: George, Patricia, John, Jerry, and Marty Shannon.

She served for many years as the English Department head at The Fay School in Southboro.

The Doane Beals & Ames Funeral Home of Hyannis assisted with arrangements.

Allen M. Glick,

81

UMATILLA, FLA./WORCESTER - Allen Michael Glick, 81, of Umatilla, FL, (formerly of Framingham and Barnard, VT) died peacefully at home on March 12, 2023. He was the son of Selig and Lillian (Tagerman) Glick.

Allen leaves to cherish his memory his loving and devoted wife of 16 years, Iris C. Glick; his sister, Wendy Glick and her partner, Joseph Orth of West Palm Beach, FL; his aunt Lenore Tagerman of Boca Raton, FL; his cousin William Topkin of Connecticut; his cousin Susan (Glick) Shaiken and family of New York; his cousins William Tagerman and wife, Nancy, Karen (Tagerman) Dom and husband, Charles, and Neil Tagerman and wife, Lauren, and their respective families, all of Massachusetts; his brother-in-law Walter Randall of Wayland, MA, Iris’s nephew Stephen Randall and wife, Michelle of Umatilla, FL; and Walter Randall and wife, Laurie of MA. He is also survived by Janice Anderson Sage and husband, William, Gwendolyn (Sage) Wissler and husband, Gregory and their children Madeline and Chase, and Adrienne (Sage) Donohue and her daughters Vivienne and Catherine, all of Framingham, MA. Allen was predeceased by his sister, Sarajane Glick, in 1960, and his beloved companion of 31 years,

Eileen E. Anderson, in 2000.

Raised in Worcester, Allen attended Tabor Academy and Clark University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing in 1963. From a young age, he worked with his father Selig. First, in the family-owned parking garage businesses and later, in a sales and management capacity, at his father’s automobile dealership, Bancroft Motors in Worcester, MA. In 1967, at the age of 26, he earned the honor of being the youngest person to have ever been granted a Chevrolet dealership franchise, leading to the opening of Crown Chevrolet in Framingham, MA. From 1968 -1999, he went on to grow an automobile empire comprised of Chrysler, Mitsubishi, Oldsmobile and Hyundai dealerships in Framingham, MA, Toyota dealerships in Framingham and Wellesley, MA, and a Nissan dealership in Westborough. MA. In 1999, he sold four of his last five dealerships, continuing to serve as President and Treasurer of Glick Nissan in Westborough, MA.

Funeral arrangements are in the care of Miles Funeral Home of Holden.

Barbara J. Godsoe, 78

MARLBOROUGH - Barbara

J. (Camerato) Godsoe, 78, of Marlborough, died Saturday, March 11, 2023, at UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester, MA. She was the daughter of the late Joseph and Catherine (Waters) Camerato sister to the late Joseph Camerato Jr and Marion Cupo and the wife of the late Donald E. Godsoe.

Barbara was a devoted mother to her sons, Rob McDevitt Jr, David McDevitt and Nathan Godsoe as well as her grandson, Nathan Jr. As well has many nieces and nephews. Barbara considered herself very lucky to have the dear friends she had made over the years living in Marlborough.

She was a member of the Lions club, and a high light was here attendance to the international lion’s conference in Birmingham, England.

Barbara had cared for many children throughout her years and considered them her extended family. She was also very active volunteer at her local pantry, Toys for Tots with

the US Marine core.

The Slattery Funeral Home, Inc. of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.

Kevin James Cronin, 69

RUTLAND - Kevin James Cronin, 69, formerly of Shrewsbury and Worcester, of Rutland, Passed away peacefully at his residence on Friday, March 10, 2023.

He was born on April 29, 1953 in Worcester to Anthony B. and Marion E. (Sullivan) Cronin. He never was viewed or viewed himself as a man that was challenged. Family was everything for him and he was fortunate to have such a strong bond with his brother and best friend Tony, and the extended family he created throughout his life. He leaves his brother Tony and sisters Marilyn and Sheila, and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews, uncles and aunts. The Chiampa Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.

Owen R. Camden Sr., 97

MARLBOROUGH - Owen Richard Camden, Sr, 97 of Marlborough died peacefully with his family by his side at home on Sunday, March 12, 2023. He was the loving husband of Rose (Gennari) Camden of 64 years.

In addition to his wife Rose, he leaves a son Owen R. Camden, Jr of Upton and a daughter Julia Carlman and her husband Paul of Marlborough. He was predeceased by his daughter Linda O’Brien of Worcester. He also leaves seven grandchildren Michael and his wife Dora, Daniel, Derek, Marisa and her husband Nicholaus, Justine, Amelia and Joe and two great grandchildren Giavana and Caroline. Also, a son-in-law John O’Brien and daughter-inlaw Patricia Camden and many nieces and nephews.

Owen was born in Baldwinville, MA. He was the son of Joseph and Mary (Meegan) Camden. Owen attended Templeton High School. Owen enlisted in the Navy in 1944. He was a WW II veteran. After his service, Owen worked for Starrett in Athol, MA. He then worked for New England tele-

phone where he then retired with Verizon.

Owen enjoyed traveling, bowling, playing horseshoes and cheering on all Boston sports teams. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Church, The American Legion of Baldwinville, MA and the IBEW union.

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

Gloria E. Dzigas, 81

MARLBOROUGH - Gloria E. (Ballard) Dzigas, 81 of Marlborough, died Monday, March 13, 2023.

She was the daughter of the late E. Gloria (Heath) Ballard and the beloved wife of Joseph P. Dzigas. Joseph and Gloria were childhood sweethearts. They were married for more than 62 years. Sadly, she was predeceased by her dear son, Jay Dzigas.

Besides her husband, she is survived by her daughter Julie Osetek and her husband Alan of Southborough, MA and her adored grandchildren, Alex, Zachary and Luke.

Gloria cherished her family and her many friends. She radiated love and warmly shared it with everyone she encountered.

Visiting hours for Gloria will be held on Sunday, March 19, 2023, from 4:00-6:00PM at the Slattery Funeral Home, Inc. of Marlborough assisted with arrangements.

Cathy Zereski, 78

NORTHBOROUGH - Cathy (Socha) Zereski passed away peacefully on March 9th, 2023, after a brave battle with cancer. She was born in Worcester on May 19, 1944, the daughter of Catherine and Felix Socha.

She will be lovingly missed by her husband Don Zereski, her son and daughter in-law Don and Kelsa Zereski, her daughter Katie Zereski, her grandchildren McKenzie and Zachary Johnson, and her brother and sister-inlaw Joseph and Margaret Socha and their children.

The Chiampa Funeral Home of Shrewsbury assisted with arrangements.

LEGAL NOTICES

Scan QR code for rate information or to email your legal notice.

TRIAL COURT OF MASSACHUSETTS

TRIAL COURT OF MASSACHUSETTS

SUPERIOR COURTMICHAEL A. SULLIVAN, CLERK OF COURT

Middlesex Superior Court- Woburn

200 Trade Center Woburn, MA 01801

Docket Number: 1981CV00178

Oder of Notice by Publication-

Case Name:

Michael R. Proctor Personal Representative for the Estate of Francis R. Proctor v. Lahey Clinic Foundation, Inc. & Whittier Rehabilitation Hospital, Inc.

RE: Whittier Rehabilitation Hospital, Inc.

WHEREAS a civil action has begun against you in the Middlesex Superior Court by Michael R. Proctor Personal Representative for the Estate of Francis R. Proctor, wherein he is seeking to recover damages for a nursing home negligence against the decedent Francis R. Proctor. We COMMAND YOU if you intend to make any defense, you do cause your written pleading to be filed in the office of the Clerk of Court named above and further that you defendant against said lawsuit according to the law if you intend to do so. After a diligent search, the deputy sheriff has not been able to make service of the summons or complaint.

It is ORDERED that notice of this lawsuit be given to the defendant, Whittier Rehabilitation Hospital, Inc. by publication.

Date issued: March 1, 2023

Judge: Hon. Camille Sarrouf

PROBATE AND FAMILY COURT

INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE

Docket No. WO23P0629EA

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

The Trial Court

Worcester Division

Probate and Family Court

Estate of: John F. Sullivan Jr.

Date of Death: January 5, 2023

To all persons interested in the above captioned estate by Petition of Petitioner Kerri M. Sullivan-Kreiss of Northborough MA. A Will has been admitted to informal probate.

Kerri M. Sullivan-Kreiss of Northborough, MA has been informally appointed as the Personal Representative of the estate to serve without surety on the bond.

The estate is being administered under informal procedure by the Personal Representative under the Massachusetts Uniform Probate Code without supervi-

sion 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

PUBLIC HEARING –SPECIAL PERMIT

Applicant: SUCIU LLC

(Exela Storage)

Locus: 846 Boston Post Road East Map 61, Parcel(s) 20

Notice is given that the City Council of the City of Marlborough will hold a PUBLIC HEARING on Monday, April 10, 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 Attorney Sem Aykanian, on behalf of SUCIU LLC, d/b/a Exela Storage, to add additional storage units to a nonconforming storage facility to be located at 846 Boston Post Road East within the Wayside District. 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 508460-3775. 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 #23-1008823

TRAFFIC RULES & ORDERS LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF HUDSON

At its meeting of March 13, 2023, the Hudson Board of Selectmen voted to make the following changes in the Town’s Traffic Rules and Orders:

Under Article IV, Stopping, Standing and Parking, Section 6, Subsection E., No Person Shall Park a Vehicle Longer Than Fifteen (15) Minutes Between the Hours of 8:00 A.M. And 6:00 P.M. On Any Day

Except Sunday On The Following Described Streets Or Parts Thereof, delete the following text WASHINGTON STREET

The parking space located directly in front of the handicap space at 3 Washington Street (Hudson Public Library) and relocate it Under Article IV, Stopping, Standing and Parking, Section 13: Handicapped

Parking: WASHINGTON STREET The two parking space located directly in front of 3 Washington Street (Hudson Public Library) will be designated as “handicapped”. The first parking spot located in front of 4 Washington Street, immediately to the east of the crosswalk, will be designated as “handicapped”.

Complete copies of the Traffic Rules and Orders are on file and available in the office of the Town Clerk.

TRAFFIC RULES & ORDERS LEGAL NOTICE

TOWN OF HUDSON

At its meeting of March 13, 2023, the Hudson Board of Selectmen voted to make the following changes in the Town’s Traffic Rules and Orders:

Under Article V Directional Traffic Movement add the following: Wheeler Road from Broad Street to Forest Avenue.

Complete copies of the Traffic Rules and Orders are on file and available in the office of the Town Clerk.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

HUDSON PLANNING BOARD

Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the Hudson Planning Board on Tuesday, April 4, 2023, at 7:00 PM at Hudson Town Hall, 78 Main Street, 2nd Floor Select Board Meeting Room, Hudson, MA. At this time, the Hudson Planning Board will consider the application of 55 Cottage Street Realty Trust for Site Plan Approval to construct a five (5) unit, townhouse style, multi-family complex at 55 Cottage Street pursuant to the provisions of Section 7.1.7 of the Town of Hudson Zoning By-laws. The subject property is located at 55 Cottage Street within the SB General Residence District, Assessors’ Map 19, Parcels 18 & 19.

All petition materials are available for review in the Town Clerk’s Office during regular business hours, on the Town of Hudson website at http://go.boarddocs. com/ma/hudsonma/Board.nsf/ goto?open&id=CPKSXF74CEFE and can be requested by calling (978) 562-2989 or by sending an email to kjohnson@ townofhudson.org

Hudson Planning Board

Robert D’Amelio, Chairman

SHREWSBURY

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY

PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that Nola Cajun Kitchen LLC, d/b/a Nola Cajun Kitchen, 378 Maple Avenue, Man Nguyen, Manager, has applied to the Select Board for an On-Premise Section 12 Wine and Malt Beverages Pouring License and Common Victualler License. Hours of Operation Monday through Thursday, 11:00am –9:00pm, Friday – Saturday, 11:00am –10:00pm.

A public hearing on this application will be held on Tuesday, April 11, 2023 at 7:10pm, Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, Selectmen’s Meeting Room, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury.

Maurice DePalo Chairman

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY

PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that Taylor Wolf, Owner, Carnivore Cooking LLC, d/b/a Errol Ray’s Bistro, 6 Hartford Turnpike, has applied to the Select Board for a Common Victualler License.

A public hearing on this application will be held on Tuesday, April 11, 2023 at 7:05pm, Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, Selectmen’s Meeting Room, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury.

Maurice DePalo Chairman

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that Skaff Vineyard and Winery Inc, 614 South Street, Jean Skaff, Manager, has applied to the Select Board for a Transfer of the Section 12 Farmer Winery Pouring Permit License from Broken Creek Vineyard, LLC, d/b/a Broken Creek Vineyard to Skaff Vineyard and Winery Inc, d/b/a Broken Creek Vineyard. Hours of operation Sunday through Saturday 12:00pm to 10:0pm.

A public hearing on this application will be held on Tuesday, April 11, 2023 at 7:15pm, Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, Selectmen’s Meeting Room, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury.

Maurice DePalo Chairman

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The Shrewsbury Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Thursday evening, April 6, 2023, at 7:00 PM, in the Bent Presentation Room at Shrewsbury High School, 64 Holden Street, to hear the application of Shrewsbury Crossing II LLC, 100 MLK Jr. Boulevard, Suite 550, PO Box 646, Worcester, MA 01613, for Site Plan Modification by the Planning Board as required by the Town of Shrewsbury Zoning Bylaw, Section VII.F.3, to construct a new approximately 8,400 square foot office building as shown on plans entitled, “Proposed Site Plan Documents for Shrewsbury Crossing II LLC”, dated March 6, 2023; prepared by Bohler Engineering, 352 Turnpike Road, Southborough, MA 01772; stamped by John A. Kucich, P.E., consisting of twenty-seven (27) sheets. The subject project is located on the southeast portion of the property located near the intersection of Grafton Street and Route 9 and consists in whole or in part of Shrewsbury Assessor’s Tax Plate 34, Plot 024001.

A copy of the application and plans may be seen in the Office of the Planning and Economic Development Department at the Richard D. Carney Municipal Office Building, 100 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA, and on the Planning Board website at https://shrewsburyma.gov/905/MeetingMaterials.

SHREWSBURY PLANNING BOARD

Joseph A. Thomas, Jr., Clerk

NOTICE OF PUBLIC FORUM

The Shrewsbury Community Preservation Committee will hold a public forum on April 3rd, 2023 at 7 PM at the Shrewsbury Selectmen Room at Town Hall, 100 Maple Ave, Shrewsbury MA 01545. The purpose of this public forum is to receive community input on the historic preservation, affordable housing, open space and recreation needs in the Town to update the Community Preservation Plan. Please find more information at our website at https://www.shrewsburyma.gov/1001/ Community-Preservation-Committee.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The Shrewsbury Community Preservation Committee will hold a public hearing on April 3rd, 2023 at 7 PM at the Shrewsbury Selectmen Room at Town Hall, 100 Maple Ave, Shrewsbury MA 01545 to review the application for Community Preservation

Act funds for the acquisition of land for open space located at 443 Lake Street, 457 Lake Street, and 104 Grove Street. Members of the public are welcome to attend and provide their comments. Please find more information at our website at https://www.shrewsburyma.gov/1001/ Community-Preservation-Committee.

INVITATION FOR BIDS: ROADWAY IMPROVEMENTS FY24

The Town of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts is soliciting bids from qualified contractors to provide services for 51,786 SY of mill & overlay and replacement of approximately 74 catch basins, 9 drainage manholes, and 100 l.f. of 12” HDPE Pipe. The Town is requesting bids for a year contract. 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 1:00 pm. local time on Thursday, April 13, 2023. MassDOT prequalification of contractors with the class of work as, PAVEMENT - SURFACING for the project with an estimated value of $1,592,320.60 will be required.

All bids must meet the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Public Works Standard Specifications for Highways, Bridges and Waterways (2022). Plans and specifications may be found on the town website at Shrewsburyma. gov/bids.

Any questions or comments should be directed, by email, to Todd Baldwin, PE, Senior Civil Engineer (tbaldwin@shrewsburyma.gov) by April 7, 2023. Any communication received after this date will not be accepted.

TOWN OF SHREWSBURY

Kevin J. Mizikar Town Manager

WESTBOROUGH

NOTICE OF TIER CLASSIFICATION

SITE NAME: BAY STATE ABRASIVES

SITE ADDRESS: UNION STREET

RELEASE TRACKING NUMBER 2-0149

A release of oil and/or hazardous materials has occurred at this location, which is a disposal site as defined by M.G.L. c. 21E, § 2 and the Massachusetts Contingency Plan, 310 CMR 40.0000. To evaluate the release, a Phase I Initial Site Investigation was performed pursuant to 310 CMR 40.0480. The site has been classified as Tier I pursuant to 310 CMR 40.0500. On March 13, 2023, BSC RE Owner LLC filed a Tier I Classification Submittal with the Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP). To obtain more information on this disposal site, please contact Joseph Jammallo of Cushing, Jammallo & Wheeler, Inc., P.O. Box 322, Ayer, MA 01432; Tel. (978) 3686320. The Tier Classification Submittal and the disposal site file can be viewed at MassDEP website using Release Tracking Number (RTN) 2-0149 at http://public.dep.state.ma.us/SearchableSites2/ Search.aspx or at MassDEP, 8 New Bond Street, Worcester, MA 01606; Tel (508) 792-7650. Additional public involvement opportunities are available under 310 CMR 40.1403(9) and 310 CMR 40.1404.

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Great benefits including medical matched 401 contributions and paid vacations. Located at 40 Hayes Memorial Drive, Marlborough, MA 01752.

Tel 508-786-0309 fax 508-786-0310

Email resume to: sales@apahouser.com

Sr Tax Accountant University of Massachusetts, Office of the President, Shrewsbury, MA

Under supervision of the Assistant Treasurer & overall supervision of the Assoc Treasurer, assist w/ implem, coordination, & maint of a university-wide tax mgmt & rprting prgm, incl monitoring tax compliance of frgn persons & providing spprt on var projs to dvlp & implmnt tax policies for the University. Trvl. Req. 10% to visit campuses. Telecommuting from a home office may also be allowed up to three (3) days per wk.

Send resume to: kburke@umassp.edu. Requisition ID: 3871060.

Seeking Church Administrator

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Westborough

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

Please Send resume to GSLCParish@gmail.com

E.W. GEMME & SONS Looking for Full-time Painters

Interior/Exterior.

Lisa Y. Shaw Broker Associate

To sell or not to sell… that is the question of the year!

While the increased interest rates have certainly affected the number of sales on a year over year comparison causing a decrease in total number of sales to decrease consistently over the last few months, there is a more interesting trend happening here too.

While many homeowners in their mature years often think about downsizing and eliminating some of the laborious tasks that come with owning a larger and or older home, especially in a market like this many are staying put. Why? Based on recent surveys and industry data, the generations that would normally be selling to maximize their profit in a high market like this, have always been taught the age old belief that

renting is wasting your money and you should own a home. These long embedded beliefs are difficult to overcome for many older homeowners who have lived in their home for 20+ years, brought up their children, spent numerous holidays and made hundreds of memories there. Letting go of the family home along with the lack of inventory of the type of home they would want coupled with the legitimate belief that owning is better

than renting have so many Gen Silent and Baby Boomers very hesitant to make a move.

Owning instead of renting is a good idea but it is not absolute. So many have found peace of mind in tenancy. Not being responsible to mow the yard, rake the leaves, shovel, make repairs and be tied to your house can save you several hours in a week, a lot of headaches and stress and a ton of money. Oh and did I forget to mention, no real estate taxes either, who doesn’t love to hear those words! So if you’re sitting on a lot of equity, maybe you rethink this whole idea of renting. The banks are paying good interest on CD’s right now and for every $100,000 of equity you can cash out of your house, you could earn approximately

$5000 per year in a CD! Did you hear that?? If you have $500,000 or more worth of equity in your current house, you could sell, eliminate all those pesky time consuming tasks and responsibilities and your real estate taxes AND be earning $25,000/year! Don’t forget, the added bonus of being able to use all your free time to do what you want to do and what makes you happy, like seeing your grandchildren, meeting friends for coffee, traveling, reading and the ever popular pickleball.

The bottom line is renting just may be the right answer. Many developers have already begun to prepare for this impending need and as the baby Boomers start coming around to the idea, there will be a huge need for upscale single level apartments to accommodate this need.

Check out our new construction ranch style homes being built to this new code in Northbridge at www. mikesway.info and get into a Zero Energy ready home today!

As always, If you’re thinking of buying or selling it’s best to get the advice of a professional realtor with the right team and having experts work on your behalf is absolutely in your best interest. For more market updates, feel free to reach out: email- lisasells@ remaxexec.com Instagram @ lisashawsells or call me 508 826-7661.

Hastings School ADA construction funding request on hold

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – One of the capital budget items from Westborough Public Schools (WPS) that is part of the annual Town Meeting warrant will be put on hold for now.

During the School Committee meeting on March 15, WPS Superintendent Amber Bock recommended that the item on Americans with Disabilities Act construction for Hastings Elementary School be passed over at Town Meeting.

The reason — a lack of specific budget numbers. Bock said there were no bids from potential subcontractors.

“We don’t want to go to Town Meeting with general numbers,” said Bock. “I recommend a vote [from the commit-

Northborough Junior Woman’s Club hosts STEM conference

NORTHBOROUGH – The Northborough Junior Woman’s Club will be hosting the 15th Women in STEM Conference on April 1.

The conference is open to girls in fifth through eighth grade.

STEM is short for science, technology, engineering and math. The goal of the conference is to give the girls the opportunity to explore careers in these fields.

Participants will be able to attend four 40-minute career workshop with presenters representing forensic chemistry, technology, architecture, public health, biotechnology, teaching engineering, conservation, fashion design and various medical professions.

The conference is from 8:15 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 1 at Algonquin. Registration is limited to the first 200 girls and closes March 24.

The choice of workshops is at a first come, first served basis. To register, visit https:// docs.google.com/document/d/ 1MxOyCI82MRYgYIYQxN71r AdqUqk3P7Gq2GY2XNfDjXE/ edit.

For more information, email stem@northborojuniors.org or call Mary Ellen Duggan at 774-258-1500.

tee] to pass over Hastings until we can rebid.”

“It makes no sense to go to Town Meeting without a number,” said Chair Stephen Doret.

Bock said she hopes to have the item before fall Town Meeting.

The committee voted 5-0 to pass over the item.

The other two capital items

sponsored by the School Department received a “reaffirming” vote of support from the committee.

One request would be a transfer from free cash of $132,000 toward architectural design and engineering work for the roof at Mill Pond Elementary School.

The other request is for

$504,000 toward architectural design and engineering work to replace the roof at Hastings.

All three items are within Article 10 of the warrant. Bock plans to have a presentation on all three items during Town Meeting on Saturday, March 25.

Welcoming new members

Jakub Moskal and Sarah Shamsuddin, who were elected to the School Committee the day before, were formally welcomed to the committee.

“Thank you for stepping up to serve,” said Bock. The committee voted to have Stephen Doret as chairman and Kristen Vincent as vice chair/ secretary.

School Committee takes first step toward SHS expansion

By Bill Gilman Senior Reporter

SHREWSBURY – Solving the ongoing overcrowding problem at Shrewsbury High School (SHS) won’t happen overnight.

But the School Committee is hoping its actions at its March 15 meeting will be the first step.

The committee unanimously voted to send a statement of interest (SOI) to the Massachusetts School Building Administration (MSBA) expressing the need for a major expansion project at the high school. In addition, the committee voted to direct Superintendent Joseph Sawyer to reach out to Town Manager Kevin Mizikar requesting the Select Board sign on to the SOI.

The SOI is just the first action in a process that could take several years to bear fruit. According to Assistant Superintendent of Operations and Finance Patrick Collins, approval is not a guarantee.

“We know from experience if you are fortunate to be selected … and the odds are not great, it is a six-year process from start to finish,” said Collins.

According to Collins, in 2022, the MSBA approved 10 out of 54 construction requests.

“If the MSBA decides they want to work with you to solve your problem, then they would invite you into the first step, the eligibility period,” he said.

Collins mapped out a pro -

cess that includes forming a project team, commissioning a feasibility study and a schematic design. This is followed by the town approving funding for the project then the detailed design and actual construction.

“Getting approved doesn’t mean something will be happening this fall with construction at Shrewsbury High. It just doesn’t work that way,” said Collins.

If an expansion project is ultimately approved by the MSBA, Shrewsbury would be eligible for reimbursement from the state up to 80% of the cost of the project.

In the past, Shrewsbury has worked successfully with the MSBA on construction of the new Beal Elementary School and Sherwood Middle School. Earlier this year, the MSBA announced Shrewsbury would be receiving an accelerated repairs program grant in the amount of $1,890,419 toward the $3.9 million cost of

replacing the windows at Oak Middle School.

Study recommends expansion

Built in 2002, SHS was built with a design capacity of 1,475 students. At the time of its construction, SHS enrollment was 1,135 students. However, in four years, enrollment had jumped by 33%, to 1,513 putting the high school over design capacity. Enrollment reached a peak of 1,885 in 2020, putting the building at 28% over design capacity.

The district recently received the final draft of the space study it had commissioned from the architectural firm LPAA. In its study, LPAA identified the high school as the top priority in the district when it comes to capital investment.

Specifically, the study recommended an expansion of the existing building.

The overcrowding problem is expected to only get worse in

the coming years. According to estimates done by a demographer and included in LPAA’s report, SHS’ enrollment is projected to dip slightly, to 1,792, by 2031. However, according to Collins, those numbers are likely low, as the number of Shrewsbury students expected to be able to attend Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School is low following changes to admission policy.

“When that (report) was done, that demographer didn’t know … wouldn’t have any knowledge of any change in the admissions policy of Assabet Valley Technical High School,” said Collins. “We typically would be sending 120 students there. But where that will not be happening in the future, you could envision that those students will stay in our school district and that [projected enrollment] 1,800 students could be back around 1,900 students 10 years from now.”

School district officials had hoped to gain a bit of space relief from Assabet, with the committee sending a letter to Assabet, asking for a meeting to discuss the possibility of joining the district as an official member town.

Citing its own space issues, the Assabet School Committee voted at its most recent meeting not to expand its district to include new member towns. Shrewsbury officials expressed disappointment that they were not afforded the opportunity to state their case.

“We were disappointed to learn that a decision on

this matter had already been reached without an opportunity to discuss the possible benefits to both parties,” said School Committee Chair Lynsey Heffernan. “The Shrewsbury School Committee will continue to seek ways to provide rewarding high-quality opportunities to our students within our district, but fundamentally the committee firmly believes that interested students from Shrewsbury should have access to the robust programming that only a vocational school can provide. Right now, that opportunity has been effectively eliminated for our high school-aged students based on a change in Assabet Valley’s admission policy.”

At the March 15 meeting, Heffernan stated that the overcrowding issue was preventing the high school from offering programs, such as biotech, information technology and other hands-on classes in the vocational-tech realm.

Any expansion at the high school would include facilities for some type of vocational education opportunities. But Heffernan admitted those would be limited in scope.

“We heard, loud and clear from our community at Town Meeting last year about the need and desire for some type of vocational programming,” she said. “I don’t want, in any way, to suggest that an addition to the high school is providing the full panoply of a vocational high school. But we have no space for anything of the sort.”

Project Graduation seeks chaperones for all-night event

By Maureen Sullivan Assistant Editor

WESTBOROUGH – Project

Graduation will sponsor its 31st all-night celebration for the Westborough High School’s graduating seniors.

From 9 p.m. on Saturday, June 3, to 5 a.m. on Sunday, June 4, at Teamworks in Northborough, the Class of 2023 will enjoy food, entertainment and

a chance for new graduates to relax with friends.

It is designated as a chemical-free event to provide a safe and fun night for the Class of 2023.

Project Graduation is seeking chaperones for the all-night event. Volunteer chaperones must be at least 25 years old. For more information or to sign up, visit tinyurl. com/36wrutjn.

Assistant Superintendent for Operations and Finance Patrick Collins goes over the needs for an expansion of Shrewsbury High School at the March 15 School Committee meeting.

PHOTO/BILL GILMAN

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